The EU might “act quickly and firmly” against what it deems “unjustified” travel bans issued by the US on five Europeans working on fighting digital hatred and disinformation, an EU official stated.
European Leaders Decry US Action as ‘Coercion’
European leaders including Emmanuel Macron accused Washington of “coercion and intimidation”, following the travel bans targeted individuals who have been at the heart of efforts to introduce legislation governing American tech companies.
“For far too long, ideologues in Europe have spearheaded organised efforts to pressure US companies to suppress American viewpoints they disagree with,” wrote the US secretary of state online. “The current administration will not stand for these egregious acts of extraterritorial censorship.”
Widespread Condemnation Across Europe
Germany, Spain, the UK and a chorus of EU officials joined France in condemning the move.
The restrictions were imposed on Tuesday on an ex-European commissioner involved in crafting the bloc’s digital governance law, as well as several anti-disinformation campaigners, from two in Germany and two in the UK.
An Escalating Conflict Over Regulation
The DSA is viewed by Washington as a form of censorship, whereas EU authorities contend the regulations are essential to combat hate speech and falsehoods.
This row risks becoming part of a far wider ongoing political and ideological clash between the current US administration and Europe.
Other Developments Reported Today
In related judicial developments:
- A federal judge has blocked efforts to reduce federal homeland security funding to local governments which resist certain immigration enforcement policies. The official ruled the case was “a further instance” of tying federal aid to adherence to directives.
- Approval was given for the deployment of 350 national guard members to New Orleans prior to the holiday period, alongside an ongoing border security initiative.
- The nation of Palau will consent to accept dozens of migrants from the US in exchange for additional aid, after concluding a formal agreement with US authorities.
Furthermore, a congressional representative has filed a lawsuit seeking the removal of the current president’s name from a prominent performing arts center in the capital.
Experts point out that recent statements regarding Venezuelan oil reflect a broader belief in some quarters of “resource imperialism”, leading to parallels with historical international strategies.
