What’s Behind US Attacks on EU Tech Rules? National Security and AI Weapons
The ongoing conflict between the United States and the European Union regarding digital regulations has escalated under the Trump administration. The US, backed by its Big Tech allies, has increasingly opposed EU digital regulations, viewing them as detrimental to its companies.
Regulatory Conflict as a National Security Issue
This regulatory conflict transcends mere trade disputes, positioning itself within the realm of national security. The Trump administration has criticized EU regulations as acts of censorship that undermine freedom of speech. A notable move was the announcement of visa bans against key EU figures associated with the Digital Services Act (DSA), including Thierry Breton, the former EU commissioner behind the legislation. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio framed these actions as necessary to protect American platforms from European ideologues.
Technology and National Security Strategy
In November 2025, the US released its latest national security strategy, which emphasizes the importance of US technology and standards in driving global advancements, particularly in fields like artificial intelligence (AI), biotech, and quantum computing. This shift has elevated tech regulation from a trade issue to a matter of national security.
Michael Keary, an expert in international relations and EU policy, explains that the US views restrictions on its technology companies as direct threats to its national security. The rationale is simple: limitations on these companies hinder their ability to innovate, which in turn affects the US’s military and strategic capabilities.
The Role of the EU’s Digital Services Act (DSA)
The DSA and similar regulations are portrayed by the US as forms of censorship, but Keary suggests that the underlying concern is more about commercial interests than genuine advocacy for free speech. The Trump administration’s opposition to these regulations stems from a desire to maintain the profitability and global dominance of US tech companies.
The ‘Brussels Effect’
The term ‘Brussels Effect’ describes how the EU’s regulatory framework influences global markets. Due to the size of the EU market, companies like Meta and Google often adopt EU regulations to avoid the costs of maintaining separate systems. This dynamic presents a challenge for US companies that must comply with more stringent EU standards to access lucrative markets.
Sanctions Against EU Officials
The recent sanctions against Thierry Breton and other digital activists align with a strategy to apply pressure on the EU. Such actions are seen as diplomatic maneuvers to combat what the US perceives as rogue behavior by states that infringe upon established norms regarding online safety and freedom of expression.
Future of AI Regulations
As the US continues to focus on AI as a critical technology, tensions are likely to escalate regarding EU regulations on AI, particularly those involving autonomous weapons systems. The fear is that any limitations on US AI capabilities could lead to a strategic disadvantage in future conflicts, especially in the context of competition with nations like China.
The AI Act
The EU’s AI Act aims to regulate high-risk AI applications, addressing significant threats posed by technologies that could harm citizens. While the EU’s intentions are rooted in public safety, the US views these regulations as impediments to innovation, which could ultimately hinder its competitive edge in the global landscape.
In conclusion, the regulatory conflict between the US and the EU encompasses deeper issues of national security, economic interests, and the future of technological innovation. As both regions navigate these complex challenges, the balance between regulation and innovation will remain a pivotal point of contention.
