EU Alarmed by US Tech Dependence, Eyes Digital Sovereignty Amid Geopolitical Tensions

• The EU is shifting its focus from China to US tech dependency, driven by concerns over potential weaponization of digital tools.
• President Trump's past actions and threats have highlighted Europe's vulnerability to geopolitical shocks, prompting a push for strategic independence in tech.
• An EU report from 2023 indicates the bloc relies on foreign countries for over 80% of its digital products, services, infrastructure, and intellectual property.
• France has mandated domestic alternatives for state employees for tools like Zoom and Microsoft Teams, while Germany's Schleswig-Holstein switched from Microsoft to open-source software.
• The EU is developing a "tech sovereignty" package covering cloud, AI, and chips, and exploring initiatives like a digital euro and European payment alternatives.