This paper examines the scope of the applicability of the European Union’s regulatory framework on artificial intelligence to non-European subjects. The analysis combines doctrinal legal analysis with a socio-legal approach. We assess core pieces of European legislation, along with recent case law, using black-letter methodology. We compare worldwide developments that lead to comprehensive legislation aimed at limiting the risks of AI. Recent situations created by several social and political actors, including Elon Musk’s X and the U.S. Donald Trump’s administration, are dealt with in a socio-legal analysis, which focuses on the possible impact of European legislation on foreign nationals or foreign-residing companies. It is concluded that despite the undoubtable necessity to regulate the use of AI and to protect European consumers, the application of European legislation's principles on non-European subjects may lead to conflicts and form obstacles to the European technological market's competitiveness. On the other hand, allowing foreign demands to influence European legislation would pose a threat to European sovereignty.