Brussels slaps down Thierry Breton over 'harmful content' letter to Elon Musk

Brussels has reprimanded Thierry Breton, the EU's internal market commissioner, for sending a letter to Elon Musk regarding potential harmful content on the social media platform X, formerly Twitter. The European Commission clarified that Breton did not have prior approval from its president, Ursula von der Leyen, to issue the warning. The letter, which Breton posted shortly before Musk's interview with Donald Trump, threatened consequences if content on X was found to endanger EU citizens. The Commission is currently investigating X for non-compliance with the Digital Services Act, which aims to regulate social media platforms. Concerns have been raised about the spread of disinformation on X, particularly in relation to far-right sentiments and public unrest in Europe. Breton's letter emphasized the need for X to balance freedom of expression with measures to mitigate harmful content. Musk responded to the letter with a meme, while a Trump campaign spokesperson criticized the EU's involvement in U.S. elections. The Commission is monitoring social media for disinformation related to recent riots in the UK and may activate protocols requiring platforms to address public security threats. If X is found in violation of the Digital Services Act, it could face fines of up to 6% of its global revenue.

- Brussels criticized Thierry Breton for acting without approval in his communication with Elon Musk.

- The European Commission is investigating X for potential violations of the Digital Services Act.

- Concerns about disinformation on X are linked to rising far-right sentiments in Europe.

- Musk's response to Breton's letter included a dismissive meme.

- X could face significant fines if found non-compliant with EU regulations.