Musk's response to the accusations has included the complaint that the "legacy media" is trying to cancel him.

A gesture associated with the Nazis has a surprising history. But in Germany, there was little doubt about its meaning.

Musk, 53, spoke to a crowd of Trump supporters at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C., after Trump was sworn in at the U.S. Capitol. While thanking the supporters, Musk put his right hand over his heart, then extended his arm out with his palm down. He then turned around and repeated the gesture.