BRUSSELS, Belgium — European regulators issued a €120 million fine against X over transparency violations, prompting CEO Elon Musk to sharply criticize the ruling and intensify a dispute involving U.S. officials. The decision followed a two-year investigation examining X’s verification system, advertising disclosures, and researcher access, according to reporting confirmed by AFP and Reuters.
Musk argued in posts on X that the paid verification badge was mischaracterized and said the EU should be “abolished,” claiming power should return to individual member states. The European Commission concluded that X misled users about its blue-check system, lacked required advertiser transparency, and restricted access to public-interest data. Officials stressed that the fine applied to the entire corporate structure under Musk’s leadership.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk defended the EU, calling Europe the United States’ “closest ally.” Meanwhile, senior Trump administration officials denounced the ruling, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio calling it an attack on American tech companies. Deputy Secretary Christopher Landau added that Europe could not rely on the U.S. for security while taking actions that “undermine” it.
Musk called the fines “crazy,” and former President Trump has threatened tariffs if the EU continues enforcement actions targeting U.S. platforms. The fallout adds new strain on transatlantic relations as Europe moves to implement the Digital Services Act.
Sources:
Discover more from News Facts Network
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
