US Ambassador Warns of 'Devastating' Retaliation if EU Limits Starlink Spectrum Access
US Ambassador Andrew Puzder has warned that European companies face 'devastating' retaliation from Washington if the European Commission proceeds with plans to restrict spectrum access for non-EU firms. The dispute centers on a proposal to reserve parts of the satellite-to-smartphone spectrum band for European players, which would limit frequencies for competitors like Elon Musk’s SpaceX. Puzder argued that such measures are illegitimate if their goal is to reduce US competitiveness, asserting that Europe cannot boost its own tech sector by weakening American rivals. He further criticized the EU’s Digital Markets Act, suggesting its heavy fines on US tech giants may be aimed at generating revenue rather than fostering fair competition. The ambassador urged Brussels to abandon its regulatory stance and instead collaborate with Washington to compete against China in artificial intelligence and quantum computing. While the European Commission maintains its proposal aims to diversify suppliers while remaining open to non-EU operators, the warning highlights deepening friction between the two blocs over technological sovereignty and market access.