The United States has publicly criticized a new draft space law proposed by the European Union, labeling it as "discriminatory" and cautioning that it could jeopardize ongoing cooperation within NATO. The draft law, which is currently under review by EU member states, aims to regulate the rapidly expanding field of space operations, including satellite launches and commercial space activities.

According to U.S. officials, the proposed regulations could unfairly disadvantage non-EU entities, including American companies, by imposing stricter controls and higher barriers to entry compared to their European counterparts. This, they argue, could lead to a fragmentation of space activities that undermines the collective security framework that NATO allies have depended on for decades.

In particular, the draft law includes provisions that prioritize European space technology and services for projects funded by the EU. This move, according to the U.S., could force American space firms to operate at a significant disadvantage in Europe, potentially leading to economic repercussions and a shift in global space industry dynamics.

The U.S. State Department has issued a statement expressing deep concerns over the draft law. "We are troubled by the discriminatory nature of the proposed EU space regulations," the statement read. "Such unilateral actions not only threaten the competitive landscape but also impede our shared strategic objectives under the NATO alliance."

European officials have defended the draft law, arguing that it is intended to bolster the EU's autonomy in space technology and ensure its security and competitiveness on the global stage. They have also stressed that the law is still in draft form and open to modifications based on feedback from various stakeholders, including NATO allies.

The controversy comes at a time when both the U.S. and the EU are increasingly looking to space as a critical domain for national security, commercial, and scientific interests. With both parties planning numerous satellite launches and other space activities in the coming years, the harmonization of international space law is seen as more crucial than ever.

NATO officials have yet to issue a formal response to the U.S. criticisms, but sources close to the alliance suggest that discussions are ongoing to address the potential implications of the EU’s draft law. The outcome of these discussions could have long-lasting effects on transatlantic relations and the future of cooperative security in outer space.

As the debate unfolds, the global space community is watching closely. The resolution of this dispute will not only affect NATO's unity but also shape the future regulatory environment for space activities, impacting a wide array of stakeholders from government agencies to private enterprises.