Microsoft Accuses Google of 'Shadow Campaigns' to Influence Cloud Regulation

Microsoft alleges Google is orchestrating covert lobbying efforts in Europe to undermine its cloud services and distract from its own regulatory challenges.

Microsoft claims Google has formed the Open Cloud Coalition, a group allegedly designed to discredit Microsoft with European competition authorities and policymakers.
The software giant accuses Google of using 'astroturf' tactics, recruiting smaller European cloud providers to obscure its involvement and lead the coalition.
Google is said to have offered $500 million to members of CISPE to reject a settlement with Microsoft and continue litigation, an offer that was declined.
Google has filed an antitrust complaint against Microsoft with the European Commission, accusing it of anti-competitive licensing practices in the cloud sector.
The rivalry between Microsoft and Google intensifies as both companies face significant regulatory scrutiny in the U.S. and Europe.