U.S. Diplomatic Push Against EU's Digital Services Act

The Trump administration has initiated a lobbying effort via U.S. diplomats in Europe against the European Union's Digital Services Act (DSA). The internal State Department cable, signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and dated August 4, reveals concerns that the DSA's measures to control harmful online content stifle free speech and impose financial burdens on American tech companies.

The DSA, regarded as a landmark regulation in the EU, is designed to make the digital ecosystem safer by holding tech giants accountable for illegal content, including hate speech. However, the U.S. administration views these measures as unjustly curbing freedom of expression. Notably, Vice President JD Vance has actively voiced these concerns, accusing the EU of censoring U.S. voices, which the EU denies.

As instructed by the cable, diplomats are tasked with engaging EU officials to reconsider or amend the DSA, focusing on restricting its implications for U.S. companies. The escalation in diplomatic efforts signifies a growing tension in transatlantic relations over digital policy and economic interests, as the EU maintains that its regulations are essential for open digital markets.

(With inputs from agencies.)