The US State Department has announced visa bans on five European figures, including former EU Commissioner Thierry Breton, accusing them of aiding censorship and exerting pressure on free expression. Breton, who helped design the EU’s Digital Services Act (DSA), was cited for his role in shaping online content moderation rules. Others sanctioned include leaders from the UK-based Global Disinformation Index and Germany’s HateAid.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the individuals and organizations acted as tools of foreign censorship campaigns targeting American speakers and companies. Breton dismissed the move as politically motivated harassment, arguing that Washington’s understanding of censorship is misplaced. European officials have rejected claims that the DSA suppresses political speech.

The decision has drawn criticism from conservative US groups, who claim it punishes right-wing viewpoints. Analysts warn the dispute could strain transatlantic cooperation on digital regulation and free speech standards, as both sides accuse each other of politicizing online governance.