The EU Council debate on the Digital Networks Act (DNA) on 18 May 2026, hosted by the Cypriot Presidency, revealed deep splits over investment vs. competition, harmonisation vs. national discretion, and consumer protection vs. deregulation. Nicodemos Damianou (Cyprus Deputy Minister) framed the trade-off between investment and competition. Henna Virkkunen (Commission) defended the DNA as a regulation to boost competitiveness through harmonised rules, spectrum reform, and copper switch-off. Alessandro Gropelli (Connect Europe) argued the DNA is too weak on investment incentives, while Alejandra de Iturriaga Gandini (BEREC) warned against weakening competition and NRA independence. Donald Connor (MVNO Europe) said the DNA privileges connectivity investment over competition. Cláudio Teixeira (BEUC) and Jan Penfrat (EDRI) criticised insufficient consumer benefits and net neutrality safeguards. Michel Van Bellinghen (BIPT) warned of oligopolistic risks. Dr Kamila Kloc (Commission) rejected claims of weakened protections. Consensus existed on connectivity's strategic importance and the need for a regulation, but disagreements persisted on spectrum duration, fibre migration, and fair share. Next steps: Council discussions continue.