In a written answer on 12 June 2026, Executive Vice-President Henna Virkkunen, on behalf of the European Commission, defended the integrity of the EU's digital rulebook and rejected allegations of interference in the 2023 Slovak elections. The response, addressed to MEP Erik Kaliňák (NI), reaffirms the Commission's position that the US House Judiciary Committee report of 3 February 2026 misrepresents the Digital Services Act (DSA) and that the Commission will continue to enforce the law transparently.
The answer follows Kaliňák's earlier question of 9 February 2026, to which the Commission replied on 14 April 2026, firmly rejecting the US report's allegations. In the latest response, Virkkunen states that the Commission has repeatedly clarified its position to the US administration and the House Judiciary Committee, rebutting claims that the DSA weakens freedom of expression. She emphasises that the DSA protects freedom of expression by giving users rights to explanations, appeals, and redress when platforms remove or restrict content. The Commission pursues maximum transparency in enforcement, with all decisions published on a dedicated website.
Virkkunen notes that the Commission engages continuously with US representatives at political and technical levels on digital rules, aiming to promote cooperation on shared challenges. However, she stresses that enforcing democratically adopted legislation is not negotiable and remains the EU's sovereign right. The answer does not specify whether the Commission has formally requested a retraction from the US Congress, nor does it detail additional public communication steps beyond the earlier written question and the 3 February 2026 midday press briefing. The response signals the Commission's firm stance on defending its regulatory autonomy while maintaining diplomatic channels with the US.
← Atlas › News › EU affairs & Institutions