Macron Criticizes US Tech Regulations

French President Emmanuel Macron has issued a stark warning regarding the shifting geopolitical landscape, specifically focusing on the actions of the United States. In a speech delivered to French ambassadors on January 8, 2026, Macron outlined his concerns that the US is moving away from its traditional alliances and ignoring international regulatory norms. The address highlighted a growing divide between the transatlantic partners, particularly concerning the digital economy.

Central to Macron's message was the call to action for the European Union. He urged member states to "defend" and "consolidate" their regulatory framework for the technology sector. This defense is deemed necessary because the European tech regulations have increasingly become the target of US policy. The speech signals a potential hardening of the EU's stance on digital sovereignty and the need to protect European standards from external pressure.

In a significant policy address, President Emmanuel Macron spoke before a gathering of French ambassadors at the Élysée Palace. The annual diplomatic corps gathering serves as a platform for outlining France's strategic priorities for the coming year. This year, the focus shifted heavily toward the changing dynamics of the transatlantic relationship.

Macron's remarks painted a picture of a world where long-standing alliances are being tested. He suggested that the current US administration is altering the fundamental nature of its diplomatic and economic engagement. The speech was not merely a critique but a strategic assessment of how France and Europe must navigate an increasingly unpredictable international environment.

The core of the President's criticism centered on the behavior of the United States on the global stage. Macron stated that the US is "progressively turning away" from its historical allies. This observation suggests a perceived erosion of the mutual trust that has defined the transatlantic alliance for decades. The French leader implied that this shift is not accidental but a deliberate policy direction.

Furthermore, Macron accused the United States of "freeing itself from international rules." This specific phrasing points to a broader concern about the stability of the global order. By disregarding established norms, the US risks creating a vacuum that could lead to increased global instability. Macron's comments reflect European anxieties that the US is prioritizing unilateral interests over multilateral cooperation.

• Distancing from traditional European allies
• Disregard for established international regulations
• Unilateral policy shifts affecting global stability

Beyond general foreign policy, President Macron identified a specific sector under threat: technology. He called for Europe to "defend" and "consolidate" its regulation of the tech industry. This is a direct response to the increasing friction between European regulatory standards and the business interests of major US technology firms.

The European Union has established itself as a global leader in tech regulation through legislation such as the Digital Markets Act and the Digital Services Act. These frameworks are designed to curb the power of Big Tech and protect user privacy. Macron views these regulations as essential for European sovereignty but acknowledges they are "the target" of US opposition. The French President argues that maintaining a robust regulatory shield is crucial for protecting European values and economic interests in the digital age.

The statements made by Emmanuel Macron suggest a potential cooling of relations between Paris and Washington. By publicly highlighting these grievances, Macron is signaling to the international community that Europe is prepared to chart its own course. This includes resisting pressure to align with US standards that contradict European priorities.

The friction is likely to manifest in ongoing negotiations regarding digital trade and data flows. As the United States continues to push for less regulation, Europe appears committed to tightening its oversight. This fundamental disagreement on the role of government in the tech sector remains a central point of contention that will require careful diplomatic navigation in the months ahead.