French President Emmanuel Macron has strongly criticized a decision by the United States to impose visa restrictions on former European Union commissioner Thierry Breton and several other European figures involved in anti-disinformation efforts.
In a statement shared on Wednesday via social media platform X, Macron described the U.S. action as unacceptable, accusing Washington of using intimidation tactics to weaken Europe’s digital independence. He said France firmly opposes the visa bans, which he believes are designed to pressure individuals working to regulate digital spaces and counter disinformation.
According to Macron, the measures go beyond individual travel restrictions and represent a broader challenge to Europe’s ability to shape and enforce its own digital rules. He stressed that such actions undermine European digital sovereignty and interfere with the continent’s regulatory autonomy.
The French president reaffirmed that France would not stand alone on the issue. He said the country would work closely with the European Commission and other EU partners to protect Europe’s authority to regulate digital platforms and defend its policy choices against external pressure.
The visa bans have sparked debate across Europe, particularly as the EU continues to tighten regulations on major technology companies and strengthen its stance against online disinformation. Macron’s response signals that France views the issue as a matter of principle, with implications for Europe’s political and technological independence.
As tensions grow over digital governance and regulation, Macron’s remarks underline Europe’s determination to maintain control over its digital future, even in the face of pushback from powerful allies.
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