Donald Trump, the Republican presidential candidate, stated that Apple CEO Tim Cook called him about financial penalties imposed on the company by the European Union. Apple did not confirm the authenticity of the call. In recent years, European regulators have been investigating major technology firms to limit their power and ensure fair competition for smaller companies.
Trump, speaking with podcaster Patrick Bet-David in a program released on Thursday, mentioned that Cook called him two to three hours prior. Trump quoted Cook as saying, “The European Union has just fined us $15 billion. … Then on top of that, they got fined by the European Union another $2 billion.”
Last month, Apple lost a longstanding legal battle with the European Union, resulting in a requirement to pay €13 billion ($14.08 billion) in back taxes to Ireland. This is part of a broader effort to crack down on major tech firms. Additionally, earlier this year, Apple faced a $2 billion EU antitrust fine for hindering competition from music streaming rivals through its App Store restrictions.
Crazy!! Tim Cook called Trump about the EU imposing a $17 billion fee!!!
Interesting how he didn’t call Kamala or Biden! pic.twitter.com/YoSKcWXao4
— Demiana Augustine (@DemiLogix) October 17, 2024
During the nearly 90-minute podcast appearance, Trump quoted his response to Cook, “Tim, I got to get elected first. … But I’m not going to let them take advantage of our companies. That won’t be happening.”
Trump and Democrat Kamala Harris are currently in a tight race for the presidential election on 5 November.
What Other Media Are Saying
- MacDailyNews reports on President Trump’s claim that Apple CEO Tim Cook called him to discuss $17 billion in EU fines, emphasizing Trump’s stance against EU actions affecting American companies.(read more)
- AppleInsider reports that former President Trump claims Apple CEO Tim Cook complained about EU fines, highlighting the ongoing dispute between Apple and European regulatory bodies.(read more)
- Times of India: Donald Trump claims Apple CEO Tim Cook approached him about EU fines, promising action if elected, amid legal battles over billions in European Union penalties.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Did Tim Cook call Donald Trump about the EU fines?
Trump said Cook called him, but Apple did not confirm it.
How much was Apple fined by the European Union?
Apple was fined €13 billion ($14.08 billion) in back taxes and an additional $2 billion for antitrust violations.
What was the context of Trump’s conversation with Tim Cook?
Trump said Cook called him about the EU fines, and Trump responded he needed to get elected first.
Why is the European Union fining major tech companies like Apple?
The EU is fining major tech companies to limit their power and ensure fair competition for smaller companies.
What did Trump promise regarding the EU’s actions against US companies?
Trump promised not to let the EU take advantage of US companies if he gets elected.
