The European Commission’s decision to impose a €2.95 billion fine against Google has triggered a sharp response from US President Donald Trump, who has threatened retaliatory measures.
Taking to his personal platform on Friday, Trump stated that the US could not allow the penalty to impact “brilliant and unprecedented American inventiveness”. He indicated a potential initiation of proceedings under Section 301 of the US Trade Act of 1974, a mechanism enabling the US President to take retaliatory actions aimed at foreign governments perceived to be engaging in unfair trade practices or violating international trade agreements. Potential measures under this provision include the imposition of tariffs.
Trump asserted that the EU Commission’s fine deprived the US of investment and job creation potential. He characterized the situation as “very unfair” and suggested that American taxpayers would not tolerate it.
The EU Commission’s investigation centered on allegations that Google abused its dominant position within the market for online advertising technology. Specifically, the commission accused the company of prioritizing its own advertising services for display advertising over those of its competitors. Google has been given a 60-day period to outline how it will address any potential conflicts of interest and the company has announced its intent to appeal the ruling.
This latest development follows earlier announcements by Trump indicating potential counteractions against US companies facing penalties from European authorities. Such actions have previously drawn criticism from leaders including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron, who defended the EU’s sovereignty in regulating its digital market and taxing corporations. Merz emphasized the exclusive authority of the EU, while Macron warned of a reciprocal response to tariffs implemented by the US.
