Musk Skips French Hearing as X Faces Ongoing Investigation
Tech billionaire Elon Musk failed to attend a voluntary hearing in France on Monday as part of an ongoing investigation into his social media platform X, according to the Paris public prosecutor’s office.
Authorities confirmed that Musk’s absence would not affect the probe, noting that neither he nor former X chief Linda Yaccarino was legally required to appear.
French prosecutors have been investigating X for about a year over allegations that its algorithms were manipulated to amplify far-right content. The inquiry also includes concerns about Holocaust denial and AI-generated deepfake material produced by the platform’s chatbot Grok, including sexualised imagery involving women and minors.
X has denied all allegations, arguing that the investigation threatens freedom of speech. Musk, who has frequently criticised European regulations, responded sharply to the probe, posting an insult directed at French investigators on his platform.
The investigation intensified earlier this year after French authorities searched X’s offices in February. Prosecutors say the aim is to ensure the platform complies with national laws while operating in France.
Officials added that the summons was intended to allow Musk and Yaccarino to present their positions and outline any steps being taken to meet regulatory requirements.
