US official warns UK against ‘Russia-style’ ban on X over AI-generated images

US official warns UK against ‘Russia-style’ ban on X over AI-generated images

US official warns UK against ‘Russia-style’ ban on X over AI-generated images

https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/jd-vance-government-ofcom-liz-kendall-elon-musk-b2898331.html

Publish Date: 2026-01-11 08:46:00

Source Domain: www.independent.co.uk

Here is a summary of the provided article, condensed into four key points:

  • Government Warnings on X’s AI: The UK’s Ofcom is conducting an expedited assessment of X’s AI, Grok, due to concerns regarding the production of deepfake images of undressed people and sexualized children. The technology threatens to block access to the platform if these issues are not addressed.

  • Comparative Criticism: US State Department’s Sarah Rogers compared the UK’s potential ban on X to actions taken by Vladimir Putin’s Russia, sparking significant controversy over the approach to regulating social media.

  • Elon Musk’s Response: Elon Musk, who oversees both X and xAI, accused the UK government of fascism and attempts to censor free speech. He argued that the government seeks any justification for censorship.

  • Deputy Prime Minister’s Perspective: UK Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy met with US Vice President JD Vance, expressing concerns about the potential harmful effects of deepfake technology. Lammy indicated that Vance agreed the issue was unacceptable and recognized its severity.

If you require more specific details or have further questions, it would be best to refer directly to the article from The Independent for comprehensive coverage.