EU Fines X; Elon Musk Calls for Abolition

The International — European Commission imposed a $140 million fine on X (social network) for breaching transparency obligations under the Digital Services Act, specifically citing deceptive blue checkmarks, lack of advertising transparency, and failure to provide data access for researchers. In response, Elon Musk, owner of X (social network), vehemently criticized the European Union, calling for its abolition and the return of sovereignty to individual countries. This action by the International — European Commission, the first under the Digital Services Act, has drawn strong condemnation from various US officials and allies, including Ted Cruz, JD Vance, and Marco Rubio, who view it as an attack on American tech companies and free speech. European officials maintain the decision is strictly a matter of regulatory compliance. The event highlights a growing clash between American tech leaders and European lawmakers over digital regulations.