Brazil's Battle with Musk: The Suspension of X

Brazil's telecommunications regulator is suspending access to Elon Musk's social media platform X, following a judge's order amidst an ongoing dispute accusing Musk of enabling hate speech. The move demands compliance with fines and the appointment of a local representative. In response, Musk has criticized the decision as unjustified censorship.

Brazil's telecommunications regulator announced on Friday that it is suspending access to Elon Musk's social network X in compliance with a court order. The order stems from a months-long dispute between Musk and Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes.

Musk has argued that the action represents unjustified censorship, while Justice Moraes insists on the need for regulations against hate speech. The suspension follows the platform's failure to meet a deadline for appointing a legal representative in Brazil. Despite the ruling, X remained accessible in Brazil as of Friday evening.

The feud also saw the freezing of satellite internet provider Starlink's bank accounts in Brazil earlier this week. Moraes' ruling requires full compliance with court orders, including fines exceeding $3 million and the designation of a local representative.

(With inputs from agencies.)