On Thursday, Google was hit with a hefty €1 billion fine as the European Commission (EC) continues its crackdown on tech monopolies. The EC accused Google of self-preferencing and anti-steering practices, slapping it with two major fines: €522 million for search bias and €488 million for blocking cheaper alternatives outside Google Play.

Google now has 60 days to comply or face daily penalties. To align with the DMA, Google must treat third-party services fairly in categories like shopping and hotels. The tech giant can appeal the decision, which could be bolstered by backing from the Trump administration.

Ahead of the EC’s ruling, 25 Republican lawmakers urged Donald Trump to retaliate against Google with trade investigations. This move could threaten tariffs on EU goods or restrict European access to US tech if such probes confirm fears that DMA is being used as a regulatory tool for economic control over American firms.

The US response highlights the complex interplay between global tech regulation and international politics, setting the stage for potential conflicts between the world’s largest economies. As both sides prepare for battle, the future of tech giants’ operations in Europe hangs in the balance.