EU Targets ‘Kill Switch’ Risk in US and China Tech

The European Commission wants to stop foreign governments or companies from using a “kill switch” to shut down or disrupt vital technology services in Europe. This “kill switch” refers to a hidden ability to turn off cloud computing, artificial intelligence, or semiconductor systems from abroad. On Wednesday, the EU executive released new “technological sovereignty” proposals. The goal is to reduce “risky dependencies” on suppliers from the United States and China. The plan focuses on three key areas: cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and semiconductor production. The move risks increasing tensions with former US President Donald Trump, as it targets reliance on American and Chinese tech giants.