EU Could Retaliate to ‘Unwarranted’ US Visa Bans, Official Says

The European Union could “respond swiftly and decisively” against what it deems “unwarranted” visa bans issued by the United States against five European individuals involved in fighting online hate and misinformation, an EU official has said.

EU Officials Decry US Move as ‘Intimidation’

European leaders such as Emmanuel Macron accused Washington of “bullying and threats”, following the travel bans targeted individuals that were at the heart of efforts to enact legislation governing US-based technology firms.

“For far too long, European activists have led organised efforts to pressure American platforms to punish US perspectives they oppose,” stated the US secretary of state online. “This government will not stand for such actions of extraterritorial censorship.”

Widespread Condemnation Across Europe

Germany, Spain, the UK and a chorus of EU officials supported France in condemning the move.

The bans were enacted on Tuesday against an ex-European commissioner who helped draft the bloc’s digital governance law, as well as several activists fighting false information, including Germany and the United Kingdom.

An Escalating Conflict Over Regulation

This European legislation is viewed by US officials as a type of speech restriction, whereas European leaders contend the regulations are essential to control hate speech and falsehoods.

This row risks becoming part of a far wider existing cultural and political conflict between Washington and European institutions.

Other Developments in the News

In other legal news:

• A federal judge has halted attempts to cut federal homeland security funding to states that do not comply with specific federal immigration rules. The judge ruled the action was “a further instance” of linking federal aid to adherence to directives.
• Approval was given for the deployment of 350 national guard members to a major US city ahead of the holiday period, coinciding with an ongoing border security initiative.
• The nation of Palau will consent to take in a limited number of individuals from the US in return for additional aid, after concluding a memorandum of understanding with Washington.

Furthermore, a congressional representative has initiated legal action seeking the removal of a political figure’s name from a well-known performing arts center in Washington DC.

Experts point out that comments regarding foreign petroleum resources reflect a broader belief in certain circles of “resource imperialism”, drawing comparisons with past foreign policy actions.