The renewed Trump administration in 2025 has brought significant changes to US internet policy, raising serious concerns for European users and organizations. Here are six reasons why, from an EU perspective, relying on US-based internet services has become riskier than ever:
1. Increased Threats to Internet Freedom and Open Access
Recent executive orders and funding cuts have undermined the US’s long-standing role as a defender of internet freedom. The suspension of foreign aid to civil society and restructuring of agencies like USAID threaten to strengthen global state surveillance and censorship. This shift could weaken the open internet and empower authoritarian digital models worldwide.
2. Widespread Censorship and Data Removals
The Trump administration has ordered the removal or modification of thousands of federal web pages and datasets, especially those related to public health, diversity, and scientific research. These actions have reduced transparency and access to reliable information, which many European researchers, journalists, and businesses depend on.
3. Unpredictable Regulatory Environment
Trump’s appointments to key agencies like the FCC and FTC signal a willingness to overhaul Section 230 and increase government intervention in online speech. This creates uncertainty for EU users and companies that rely on stable, predictable rules for digital services, data protection, and content moderation.
4. Erosion of Trust in Data Privacy
With the US government’s shifting stance on censorship, surveillance, and data transparency, European users face heightened risks regarding the privacy and security of their data. The removal of open data resources and increased government scrutiny undermine the trust fundamental to transatlantic digital cooperation.
5. Geopolitical and Legal Uncertainty
The US’s changing digital policies under Trump could disrupt international data flows and complicate compliance with EU regulations like the GDPR. The risk of sudden policy shifts, service restrictions, or even a move toward a more closed internet model means European users and organizations may need to seek more reliable, EU-based alternatives.
6. The Urgent Need for EU Digital Sovereignty
In response to Trump’s planned tariffs and increasing trade tensions, the EU has a strong incentive to strengthen its own digital services industry. Reducing dependency on US providers is not only an economic necessity but a strategic imperative. While the EU currently relies heavily on US-based platforms and cloud infrastructure, initiatives like the Digital Europe Programme aim to boost European innovation, infrastructure, and competitiveness. Building a robust EU digital ecosystem will increase resilience, provide greater control over data and services, and offer a powerful counterbalance in global tech politics.
Conclusion
For Europeans, the current US internet policy climate under Trump brings increased risks for freedom, privacy, and stability. Now is the time to critically assess your reliance on US internet services and consider switching to providers that align with European values of openness, transparency, and data protection. Strengthening the EU’s own digital industry is a vital step toward greater digital sovereignty and long-term resilience.
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