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Europe Urged to Achieve Tech Independence Amid Crises

1/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

Henna Virkkunen, European Commission Vice-President, says Europe must become technologically independent to reduce exposure from Covid-19 and Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
She stresses Europe should not rely on foreign partners, especially in critical sectors such as semiconductor chips.
She urges using public contracts to support European technology companies, aligning with upcoming legislation promoting tech sovereignty.
She warns dependence on foreign technology could be exploited amid online-safety concerns and nonconsensual deepfakes.

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Story summary

Henna Virkkunen, European Commission Vice-President, says Europe must become technologically independent to reduce exposure from Covid-19 and Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
She stresses Europe should not rely on foreign partners, especially in critical sectors such as semiconductor chips.
She urges using public contracts to support European technology companies, aligning with upcoming legislation promoting tech sovereignty.
She warns dependence on foreign technology could be exploited amid online-safety concerns and nonconsensual deepfakes.