The Financial Post reports in its Friday, July 4, edition that in May, the International Criminal Court's chief prosecutor faced a technological issue when Microsoft cut off e-mail access for him and his colleagues. The Post's guest columnist Michael Karanicolas writes that this incident followed reports of Elon Musk threatening to restrict Internet access in Ukraine over control of critical minerals. Despite denials from both Mr. Musk and Microsoft, it highlights the risks for governments relying on American technology, as Canada must realize the potential threat of losing digital access. Moves to enhance digital sovereignty face challenges. Recently, President Donald Trump demanded that Canada cancel its digital services tax targeting large on-line platforms as a condition for trade talks. The Department of Finance announced compliance. Trade negotiations are delicate, especially with a volatile leader like Mr. Trump. If Prime Minister Mark Carney aims to protect Canadian sovereignty, conceding on digital services is not a wise start. Canada's acceptance of American control over our digital infrastructure is puzzling given our efforts to ensure independence in other areas of our information ecosystem.
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