Elon Musk, one of the most influential figures in technology and the owner of social media platform X (formally twitter), is once again in the spotlight, but this time for a serious conflict with the European Union (EU). The EU has fined Musk’s social media platform, X, an enormous €120 million (about $140 million). This dispute has now turned into a serious political and regulatory clash.

The fine was issued under the EU’s Digital Services Act (DSA), a strict law created to make online platforms more transparent and responsible. According to the European Commission, X misled users with its blue checkmark system. The blue tick, which earlier verified important personalities, is now available to anyone who pays for the Premium subscription. Regulators argue that this change can confuse users and expose them to scams or misleading information.

What EU says 

The EU also accused X of not giving researchers proper access to platform data, which they need to study misinformation and harmful content. The Commission said these actions amounted to “deceptive design” and poor transparency. This decision is historic because it is the first time a major tech company has been fined under the DSA. The investigation into X started in December 2023 and intensified after Musk became closely associated with former U.S. President Donald Trump.

Elon Musk’s reaction

Musk reacted strongly after the fine was announced. He posted on X that the European Union should be abolished and that individual countries should regain full control to better serve their citizens. He stressed that he loves Europe but does not support the “bureaucratic monster” running the EU. He said he was serious about his statement and not joking.

The issue also drew reactions from U.S. leaders. Vice President JD Vance defended Musk, saying the EU should support free speech instead of attacking American companies. Musk and Vance share a strong relationship, especially after Musk supported Donald Trump’s election campaign and helped set up the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

About EU (European Union)

The European Union is a group of 27 countries, including France, Germany, and Spain, that work together on laws and policies. The fine on X is part of the EU’s wider effort to regulate big tech companies. In recent years, Apple, Google, and Meta have also faced penalties.

X now has 60 days to come up with a plan to fix the issues and 90 days to implement the changes. If it fails to comply, the company may face even more fines. Musk has said he will challenge the decision in court, which could delay any payment and extend the fight between X and the EU.