The European Commission and several EU states strongly condemned US sanctions against five European figures, including a former EU commissioner.
On Tuesday (December 23, 2025), the US State Department announced a visa ban on the individuals, accusing them of trying to “force” American social media platforms to censor certain viewpoints.
The European Commission said it had requested clarifications from US authorities and warned it would respond “swiftly and firmly” if necessary to defend its regulatory independence.
It stressed that Europe’s digital rules ensure a safe and fair environment for all companies, applied equally and without discrimination. Freedom of expression, it added, is a fundamental right in Europe and a core value shared with the United States.
The Commission underlined that the EU is an open, rules-based single market with the sovereign right to regulate economic activity in line with democratic values and international commitments.
Sources - Agencies
