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Macron Urges EU Investment, Sparks Musk Subsidy Clash

2/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

On February 11, 2026, French President Emmanuel Macron addressed Antwerp industrialists, urging public investment in Europe.
He cited state support for Elon Musk's Starlink as a reason for increased EU investment and borrowing.
Macron labeled Musk "over-subsidised" and promoted a "Buy European" approach to boost competitiveness against the US.
Musk responded on X, arguing European subsidies exceed U.S. levels and Tesla and SpaceX receive only 1% of their value.

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Story summary

On February 11, 2026, French President Emmanuel Macron addressed Antwerp industrialists, urging public investment in Europe.
He cited state support for Elon Musk's Starlink as a reason for increased EU investment and borrowing.
Macron labeled Musk "over-subsidised" and promoted a "Buy European" approach to boost competitiveness against the US.
Musk responded on X, arguing European subsidies exceed U.S. levels and Tesla and SpaceX receive only 1% of their value.