Trump orders US agencies to stop using Anthropic technology in clash over AI safety

February 28, 2026 - 07:47

In a significant escalation of tensions over artificial intelligence governance, the administration has mandated that all federal departments immediately discontinue their use of technology developed by Anthropic. The directive, issued Friday, marks a decisive moment in a prolonged and increasingly public dispute regarding the safety and oversight of advanced AI systems.

Officials framed the order as a necessary action to mitigate potential national security risks and ensure strict compliance with federal safety standards. The move extends beyond a simple usage ban, encompassing a series of substantial punitive measures against the company. This clash centers on fundamental disagreements about the development and deployment thresholds for powerful AI, with regulators demanding more stringent internal controls and transparency.

The sweeping mandate will trigger a complex and likely costly unwinding of existing contracts and integrated systems across the government's vast bureaucracy. It signals a hardening stance on enforcing AI safety protocols, potentially setting a precedent for how the government interacts with other leading firms in the field. The industry is watching closely, as the repercussions of this standoff are expected to influence broader regulatory discussions and corporate practices surrounding cutting-edge artificial intelligence.