Europe's Levers Against US AI Dominance Amid Trump’s Fragile Coalition
ASML holds a global monopoly on semiconductor lithography machines, and potential European export controls on these devices could restrict shipments to the US and Taiwan. Such restrictions may throttle Nvidia's AI chip supply, thereby impacting US AI-driven economic growth. Additionally, EU data protection rules may be enforced against US tech platforms like Google and Meta. A crackdown in Ireland could force these companies to rebuild their AI systems to comply with European regulations, with repercussions extending beyond Europe and challenging the prevailing AI business model.
The article asserts that AI investment currently drives the majority of US GDP growth—approximately 92% in the first half of the year—while GDP growth without AI involvement stands at a mere 0.1%. Within this context, Donald Trump's political coalition is depicted as fragile. His proposed AI moratorium bill has stalled in the Senate, and factions within the Maga movement express concerns about AI displacement and online content governance.
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, wields two potent levers that could destabilize the US economy and Trump administration if utilized: export controls on ASML lithography machines and strict enforcement of data protection rules. The article suggests that Europe should assert itself and 'cripple' Trump, urging von der Leyen to act decisively to defend European democracy and liberties.
Brazil’s President Lula da Silva is cited as a model for countering Trump, exemplified by his public letter, tariff responses, and law protecting children online, which allegedly influence Trump’s posture.
