In an open letter published on September 15 by Connect Europe, leaders from major European telecom companies such as Orange, Deutsche Telecom, and Telefónica have criticized the initial draft of the Digital Networks Act (DNA), introduced in January. They argue that the proposed legislation does not adequately address the need for improved investment and innovation in Europe’s digital infrastructure. The letter comes as European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen prepares to deliver her State of the Union speech, aiming to influence the direction of the DNA. The telecom leaders highlighted their contributions to key European technological initiatives, including the development of AI gigafactories, the creation of a sovereign cloud, and efforts to bolster cybersecurity. They stress that connectivity networks form a "critical layer" of Europe’s technological foundation, which they say is being undermined by inconsistent political reforms. According to the operators, the telecom sector contributes 5% to the European GDP, with annual investments of 64 billion euros. However, future goals—especially with the arrival of 6G—require 475 billion euros in investment to achieve world-class connectivity, including gigabit internet for all, autonomous 5G for industry, and infrastructure for satellites and undersea cables. The telecom companies praised certain initiatives by the European Commission, such as the Cloud and AI Development Act (CADA) and policies related to satellite mobile spectrum. They also suggested that they might collaborate on bids for European satellite spectrum tenders. However, they criticized the current method of allocating radio frequencies through repeated auctions, which they estimate has cost the industry 110 billion euros over twelve years. Instead, they propose granting unlimited spectrum licenses by default, with a minimum duration of 40 years in exceptional cases, to redirect funds toward future 6G development. Regarding fixed broadband networks, the operators oppose setting a mandatory closure date for copper-based DSL connections. They argue that such a top-down regulation would reduce consumer choice and weaken competition, emphasizing that the shift to fiber-optic networks should be driven by market demand rather than regulatory mandates. Overall, the telecom companies are calling for "less regulation and bureaucracy," greater harmonization across Europe, and more flexibility for investment and innovation. They urge the DNA to fulfill the European Commission’s promise of "simplicity by design" and reference the Draghi report, suggesting that relaxing anti-trust rules could allow for market consolidation and cross-border mergers to create larger, pan-European telecom companies. Finally, the operators warn that ongoing reforms must be consistent. They argue that if the DNA aims to strengthen investment in telecom infrastructure, the Cybersecurity Act (CSA) might instead drain resources needed for fiber, 5G, and 6G development. They point to the proposed ban on Chinese telecom equipment providers like Huawei and ZTE, which offer cost-effective solutions. Replacing this equipment could cost up to 40 billion euros. The operators argue that a more proportionate approach, based on risk assessment and considering alternative security measures, is needed rather than imposing broad restrictions that could disrupt long-term investment plans without adequate compensation.