The Roman salute is conditionally allowed in Italy and outright banned in Germany. German chancellor Olaf Scholz responded to Musk's gesture by saying, "We have the freedom of speech in Europe and in Germany," he said, "what we do not accept is if this is supporting extreme right positions."

Billionaire and a staunch supporter of US President Donald Trump, Elon Musk has been facing heat on social media for making a gesture with his right arm stretched out in the air that many have claimed somewhat resembles the Nazi salute. Elon Musk made the gesture while addressing the crowd at the Presidential Parade after the swearing-in ceremony.