The United States has barred entry to former EU commissioner Thierry Breton and four other Europeans, prompting the European Commission to demand a transparent explanation.
US State Dept Blocks Entry for Former EU Commissioner and Five Others
The State Department announced restrictions for Thierry Breton, former EU commissioner, and four other European officials, citing their alleged role in organized campaigns targeting American platforms for censoring, demonetizing, and suppressing dissenting views. The ban was justified by the U.S. as potentially having serious negative consequences for U.S. foreign policy. The conflict centers on the EU’s Digital Services Act, which requires large social platforms to moderate content and disclose algorithmic transparency. US conservatives view the law as a tool to influence right‑wing views in Europe and beyond.
Thierry Breton Responds on X About DSA
Breton, who is under sanctions, posted on X claiming that “censorship is not where you think it is.” He reminded that the 90% of the European Parliament and all 27 member states voted unanimously for the DSA, and that the law is a democratic and sovereign process. He warned that American friends should understand that censorship is not where they believe it to be.
French Leaders Condemn Visa Restrictions as Intimidation
France’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jean‑Noël Barrot, condemned the U.S. visa limits, stating they amounted to intimidation and coercion aimed at challenging European digital sovereignty. President Emmanuel Macron further criticized the restrictions, calling them a form of threat against European officials. He emphasized that EU digital regulations were adopted through democratic and sovereign processes by Parliament and the Council to ensure fair competition and to align online illegality with offline laws.
EU Commission Demands Clarifications
The European Commission issued a statement condemning the U.S. decision to restrict travel for five Europeans, including former commissioner Breton. It reiterated that EU digital rules are applied fairly and non‑discriminatorily. The Commission requested explanations from U.S. authorities and declared its commitment to defend EU regulatory autonomy against unfounded measures. It signaled willingness to respond swiftly and decisively if needed.
Digital Services Act Key Principles
The EU Parliament describes the DSA as aiming to create a safer digital space for users and businesses by protecting fundamental online rights. It tackles illegal trade, illegal content, and disinformation disseminated through algorithms. The law bans targeted advertising based on sensitive data such as sexual orientation, religion, ethnicity, and for minors. It also expedites removal of illegal content, ensuring it is done as quickly as possible.
