The European Commission has taken aim at X CEO Elon Musk, attempting to exert pressure on him to censor presidential candidate Donald Trump on the American platform.
In a letter sent to Musk on Monday, Thierry Breton, a high-ranking official at the European Commission, issued a veiled threat, warning Musk that his company must adhere to EU laws governing online content. The letter claimed that Musk’s platform is obligated to protect EU citizens from “harmful content” and that the Commission is monitoring the situation closely.
Breton’s letter stated that Musk must take steps to mitigate the “amplification of harmful content” on his platform, including live streaming, and that he must report on content moderation measures taken. The letter also implied that the Commission may take action if it deems that X is not complying with EU laws.
The Commission’s efforts to regulate X came as Musk prepared to host a live conversation with Trump on the platform, marking Trump’s return to X. Musk has been a vocal advocate for free speech, and his platform has been seen as a haven for those who feel censored by other social media platforms.
The Commission’s move has sparked concerns that it is attempting to exert control over American companies and undermine the principles of free speech. Musk has previously resisted efforts by governments to censor content on his platform, and it remains to be seen how he will respond to the Commission’s demands.
The Commission’s actions have also raised questions about its jurisdiction over American companies and its ability to enforce EU laws on platforms that operate globally. The situation is likely to escalate into a major controversy, with implications for free speech and online regulation.
