X Blocks European Commission Ads

(MENAFN) X has prohibited the European Commission from running promotional content on its platform, alleging that the bloc’s executive branch tried to “misuse its systems.”

This action represents the latest development in the intensifying conflict between the EU and Musk’s microblogging service. Recently, Brussels imposed a €120 million fine (roughly $140 million) on X under the Digital Services Act, accusing the company of deceiving users through modifications to its blue checkmark verification program.

Elon Musk dismissed the fine as politically driven and harshly criticized the EU, labeling it “the Fourth Reich” and calling for its dissolution.

Nikita Bier, X’s Head of Product, announced the new restriction on Sunday following the European Commission’s post regarding the fine. Bier described the EU’s statement as “ironic” and claimed that EC staff intentionally accessed a long-dormant advertising account to exploit a vulnerability in X’s ad tools.

According to him, the attempt aimed to artificially boost the reach of the announcement. X has since deactivated the account.

The European Commission reportedly ceased purchasing ads on X in late 2023. An internal memo cited by a media outlet mentioned concerns over the platform’s reputation following what it described as “widespread disinformation” after militants from Gaza attacked Israel the previous month.

Despite this, the Commission has continued to utilize X for routine communications.

Musk’s criticisms of Brussels have garnered backing in Washington. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio denounced the EU fine as “an attack on all American tech platforms and the American people,” claiming that European officials were seeking to enforce political censorship.

Telegram founder Pavel Durov also criticized EU regulators, reiterating his assertion that Western European governments attempt to pressure tech companies into curbing political speech and interfering in domestic elections.

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