U.S. President Donald Trump has criticised the European Union’s new artificial intelligence (AI) regulations, describing them as a threat to American technology firms and a potential flashpoint in U.S.-EU trade relations.
The criticism follows recent EU moves to enforce stricter oversight of digital platforms and AI systems through legislation such as the Digital Markets Act (DMA) and the Digital Services Act (DSA). These laws have led to hefty fines for major U.S. tech companies, including a €500 million penalty on Apple and another €200 million imposed on Meta over competition and data concerns.
Speaking through members of his political camp during an AI policy event in Paris, Trump warned that the EU’s regulatory framework could hinder innovation and disadvantage U.S. firms in global markets. Vice President JD Vance, representing the administration’s position, said the United States “Cannot and will not accept” what he termed “burdensome international rules” being imposed on American companies.
“The EU’s AI and tech laws are increasingly becoming de facto global standards, and that’s unacceptable,” Vance said. “We will not allow European regulators to dictate the terms under which American innovation operates.”
The Trump team’s stance reflects growing frustration among U.S. officials and corporate leaders who view Europe’s regulatory efforts as protectionist. American tech giants have accused the EU of unfairly targeting them, arguing that the enforcement actions function more like economic sanctions or tariffs than regulatory safeguards.
However, European leaders have defended their actions, arguing that the rules are essential to ensure accountability, consumer protection, and ethical AI development. French President Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed the bloc’s commitment to a “Sovereign and secure digital future,” noting that the EU is investing heavily in AI innovation while maintaining public trust.
Despite the Trump administration’s opposition to European regulations abroad, it has also pursued investigations and antitrust actions against domestic tech giants, signalling a complex and at times contradictory approach to tech governance.
