Europe’s concern over heavy reliance on US technology

European leaders are growing uneasy about their dependence on American technology, according to a recent New York Times report. This worry has intensified since President Donald Trump’s actions, like suspending the email account of an International Criminal Court prosecutor in the Netherlands investigating Israel for war crimes. Such moves have raised fears that the U.S. could use its tech dominance to influence Europe.

The European Union’s Digital Services Act, aimed at making online spaces safer by tackling illegal content like hate speech, has sparked tension. U.S. tech giants, such as Meta, which owns Facebook and Instagram, argue that this law restricts free speech. Meanwhile, European officials see it as a way to protect their citizens. Political moves, like threats from U.S. leaders to ban visas for those limiting American speech online, have added to the strain.

In response, Europeans are exploring local tech options. In Berlin, a charity called Topio helps people switch their phones to non-U.S. operating systems. Interest in European email, messaging, and search services has surged, as shown by data from Similarweb. Since Trump’s second term began, many Europeans feel less confident in relying on U.S. tech due to concerns over privacy and control.

To address this, Europe is pushing for “digital sovereignty” by building its tech solutions. Leaders want to reduce reliance on foreign companies and strengthen local innovation. This shift could reshape how Europe interacts with technology, prioritizing security and independence over convenience.