In a unanimous decision, the Supreme Court has upheld a federal law requiring TikTok's Chinese owners to either sell or shut down the app by January 19, validating Congress's national security concerns. This ruling may result in TikTok going offline temporarily, impacting millions of users. Meanwhile, President-elect Donald Trump and his team are seeking ways to address security apprehensions while negotiating the platform's future. As the Biden administration exits, their stance on enforcing the ban remains non-committal, leaving TikTok in a state of uncertainty.
This decision means that the platform could potentially go offline—at least temporarily—on Sunday, impacting millions of TikTok users, particularly teenagers, who regularly engage with its short-form videos on their phones. President-elect Donald Trump and his allies are exploring political solutions to address these security concerns while attempting to save the app. Officials from the outgoing Biden administration have indicated they do not plan to enforce the ban before departing office, yet this assurance has not placated TikTok.
Should it face a legal loss at the Supreme Court, TikTok has prepared to shut down its operations in the U.S. to comply with the law, avoiding legal repercussions for companies associated with its distribution. The company is also considering other strategies and seeking dialogue with Trump.
In response to the ruling, frantic efforts ensued. The White House clarified it would not take action when the law is set to take effect on Sunday, considering Trump's inauguration the following day. "Our administration believes the responsibility to implement the law lies with the next administration," Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stated. The Justice Department welcomed the decision but did not provide details on the next steps. "The process of implementing and ensuring compliance with the new law after January 19 will unfold over time," remarked Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco.
Trump commented via social media, stating, "I will decide on TikTok in the near future, but I need time to carefully consider the situation. Stay tuned!"
The president-elect revealed he spoke with Chinese leader Xi Jinping on Friday, discussing various topics, including TikTok.
TikTok did not provide an immediate response. Its CEO, Shou Chew, is expected to attend Trump's inauguration.
La Repubblica offers its own "response" to the issue of over-tourism through a travelogue in…
The operation to occupy a Greek island by Turkey via helicopters and special forces (commandos)…
The development of VTOL drones could be a crucial point for future military operations, as…
"The core provisions of the draft law violate the presumption of innocence, the separation of…
On Friday, the Israeli Security and Political Cabinet approved a significant ceasefire and prisoner exchange…
On January 18, the Greek Orthodox Church celebrates the Feast Day of Agios Athanasios. Agios…