Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, has issued a firm warning to major technology companies—including X, Meta, Apple, and TikTok—stating that the European Union is prepared to implement its comprehensive digital regulations irrespective of the leadership or location of these entities. In a recent communication with POLITICO, she emphasized the EU’s unwavering commitment to enforcing its digital rulebook.
“The rules voted by our co-legislators must be enforced,” Ursula von der Leyen stated.
Highlighting the EU’s proactive stance, von der Leyen pointed out that investigations have already been initiated against several prominent firms, including TikTok, X, Apple, and Meta. She assured that the EU applies its regulations equitably and without any bias, regardless of the companies’ origins or their executives. “We care about protecting people,” she reiterated, reinforcing the bloc’s dedication to consumer safety and digital accountability.
EU’s determination amidst international scrutiny
This strong declaration reflects the EU’s determination to uphold an extensive array of digital regulations that have faced criticism from high-ranking officials in the administration of former U.S. President Donald Trump. Notably, Vice President JD Vance has been vocally opposed to European measures such as the Digital Services Act (DSA) and the AI Act, asserting that these regulations impede free speech and hinder innovation.
As the U.S. presidential election approaches, Vance has controversially suggested a connection between America’s ongoing involvement in NATO and the EU’s digital legislation, implying that the U.S. might reconsider its alliance if the EU continues to enforce its platform rules.
Concerns over enforcement of digital regulations
This political pressure has raised concerns that the EU could hesitate to enforce its laws to avoid straining relations with the Trump administration, particularly in light of ongoing negotiations regarding U.S. trade tariffs on Europe. There have been noticeable delays in imposing anticipated fines under the Digital Markets Act, which aims to create a fair digital marketplace, as well as the DSA. Some officials have openly voiced concerns over what they perceive as the “politicization” of Big Tech enforcement.
In light of these pressures, von der Leyen’s insistence that the EU will maintain its regulatory framework regardless of company leadership serves as a counter to such critiques. Notably, Elon Musk, the owner of X, is a prominent supporter of Trump and has a significant influence within his administration as the head of the Department of Government Efficiency.
Currently, the European Commission is evaluating possible fines against X, having concluded an investigation into the platform earlier this year. Reports suggest that Brussels might impose penalties as high as $1 billion, although a spokesperson for the Commission has denied these claims.