US 'Kill Switch' On Anthropic Prompts EU Push for Tech Sovereignty

The US government’s decision to suspend foreign access to Anthropic’s most capable AI models has intensified concerns across Europe about dependency on American technology. Politico described Washington’s use of a so-called 'kill switch'—long treated as a hypothetical risk—as a wake-up call that exposed the continent’s reliance on US advanced AI systems.

What Happened

Washington restricted foreign access to Anthropic’s top-tier models, citing national security and export-control considerations. The move underscored how critical AI infrastructure and models developed in the United States can be abruptly limited for non-US users.

European Reaction

European leaders reacted swiftly, with several countries accelerating plans to build domestic capabilities and reduce dependence on external providers. Policymakers and industry figures warned that nations without homegrown frontier AI will remain vulnerable to decisions made abroad. As one prominent French far-right leader put it, countries that fail to invest "will always depend…on the choices of other powers."

What Comes Next

The issue is expected to feature prominently at this week’s G7 summit in France, where leaders will discuss measures to strengthen digital sovereignty, coordinate research funding, and explore regulatory and technical options to secure access to frontier AI models. European initiatives may include public-private partnerships, joint model development, and tighter collaboration on standards and safety.

Why It Matters: The episode highlights how control over advanced AI models can translate into geopolitical leverage. For Europe, the moment is driving renewed urgency to diversify supply chains, invest in domestic AI research, and develop policies that protect both innovation and strategic autonomy.