In what the Yoruba-speaking people would refer to as Èèdì (a spell), the seemingly affectionate relationship between Donald Trump, US President, and his close ally Elon Musk, a tech giant and billionaire, began crumbling down like a mountain of ice enmeshed in a gush of volcanic eruption with Trump warning Musk of “very serious consequences” if he financially supports Democratic candidates opposing Republicans aligned with Trump’s budget bill.
The conflict began when Musk criticized Trump’s sweeping tax-cut and spending bill, saying it would add too much to the nation’s $36.2 trillion debt.
Trump broke his silence on the matter, telling reporters he was “very disappointed” in Musk. “Look, Elon and I had a great relationship. I don’t know if we will anymore,” Trump said. The situation escalated when Trump posted on Truth Social, “The easiest way to save money in our Budget, Billions and Billions of Dollars, is to terminate Elon’s Governmental Subsidies and Contracts”.
Musk fired back, suggesting Trump should be impeached and even hinted at Trump’s potential involvement in the sealed Jeffrey Epstein files. “Time to drop the really big bomb: Donald Trump is in the Epstein files,” Musk posted on X. “That is the real reason they have not been made public.” This post was later deleted.
The feud has sparked widespread discussion, with lawmakers and billionaires reacting to the serious accusations and personal insults between the two influential figures. Brian Krassenstein, a prominent political commentator, took to Twitter to share his thoughts, stating, “I don’t care what political side you’re on. Donald Trump is officially off the rails, threatening Elon Musk. This is blatant extortion”.
As the situation continues to unfold, Trump has made it clear he has no immediate plans to engage in conversation with Musk. “I’m employed by other things. I don’t plan to talk to him,” Trump stated. The implications of this feud are far-reaching, potentially influencing the tech industry, global politics, and the future of American politics.
The Trump-Musk feud’s potential impact on Africa and the EU is multifaceted. Given Trump’s “America First” approach, it’s possible he’ll prioritize investments in regions that benefit American interests.
AFRICA
Trump’s administration might focus on Africa’s natural resources, particularly critical minerals essential for technology and manufacturing. This could lead to increased investment and trade opportunities for African nations.
Political Pundits are aware that the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) is set to expire in 2025, and Trump’s administration may push for renewal or impose stricter terms to favor American businesses. This could impact over 1,800 African products currently enjoying duty-free access to the US market.
Trump’s approach might lead to more direct, result-driven negotiations with African nations, potentially bypassing traditional multilateral frameworks in a frantic transactional Diplomacy of exploitation.
European Union
Diverging paths: Trump’s rift with the EU could lead to increased competition for influence in Africa, potentially driving the EU to strengthen its ties with the continent.
Investment opportunities: Trump’s allies might invest in the EU to spite Musk, given the EU’s growing importance in global affairs. However, this would depend on Trump’s priorities and the EU’s willingness to engage.
Potential implications:
- Africa’s strategic leverage: African nations might leverage their strategic resources and growing markets to attract investments from both the US and EU.
- Global competition: The Trump-Musk feud could accelerate global competition for influence in Africa, driving innovation and investment in the continent.
In response to the feud, Trump might: Renegotiate trade agreements: Trump could push for more favorable trade terms with African nations, prioritizing American interests.
Prioritize American businesses: Trump’s administration might focus on supporting American companies, potentially leading to increased investment in Africa’s strategic sectors.
Compete with China: Trump’s team might view Africa as a key battleground in the global competition with China, driving investments and diplomatic efforts to counter Chinese influence. Recall that Nigeria, the acclaimed Giant of Africa is already looking at China to develop its vast multi billion dollar Ajaokuta Steel Industry. The country could become a Nuclear Super Power should the deal scale through.
As the relationship between Trump and Musk deteriorates, African leaders should seize this opportunity to implement bold policy initiatives with brilliant execution before a potential reconciliation between these two influential figures. By doing so, Africa can break free from the constraints of unfavorable trade agreements and economic dependencies, often perpetuated by policies like Trump’s ‘America First’ agenda, which prioritizes American interests over global cooperation.
In the midst of this drama, it’s clear that both Trump and Musk are dug in, with neither side showing any signs of compromise. Trump’s administration has already faced several challenges, and this feud could spark even more political friction. Musk’s strong influence in the tech and space industries, combined with his ability to mobilize millions of followers on social media, puts Trump in a delicate position.