BERLIN - A surge in Europeans seeking digital independence from US tech giants has emerged, coinciding with Donald Trump's return to the White House and escalating tensions between the United States and the European Union [1][2][3].

At a Berlin market stall run by the charity Topio, volunteers are experiencing increased demand for their services, which include removing US tech influence from smartphones. "It's about the concentration of power in U.S. firms," explained Topio's founder Michael Wirths [1][2][3].

Data from digital market intelligence company Similarweb indicates a recent spike in interest for European-based digital services. More Europeans are now seeking email, messaging, and even search providers outside the United States [1][2][3].

This shift comes in the wake of President Trump's second inauguration, which has rattled some Europeans' confidence in their long-standing transatlantic alliance. Trump's signals of reducing America's role in European security, coupled with the launch of a trade war, have further strained relations [1][2][3].

Wirths noted a change in the demographic seeking Topio's services: "Before, it was people who knew about technology. Now it's normal people worried about their privacy" [1][3]. This trend reflects a growing concern among average citizens about digital privacy and data sovereignty.

The movement towards 'digital sovereignty' in Europe represents a broader geopolitical shift, as the continent grapples with its technological dependence on the United States amid changing political dynamics. It underscores the intricate relationship between digital technology, international relations, and public trust in an increasingly interconnected world.

As this trend continues to unfold, it may have significant implications for the global tech industry, international data policies, and the future of transatlantic digital cooperation. The coming months may reveal whether this is a temporary reaction to current political tensions or the beginning of a more permanent realignment in the global digital landscape.