EU Sanctions Deadlock: EU capitals extended Russia’s “black list” sanctions for just one week after disputes over delisting oligarchs Alisher Usmanov and Mikhail Fridman, with the new deadline set for Sept. 22. Arctic Strategy Push: Leaders meeting in Finland urged the EU to boost its Arctic presence with more strategic, proactive action and icebreaker capacity amid Russia and growing China interest. AI Funding Warning: ECB chief Christine Lagarde warned Europe risks falling behind on AI and data-center investment without much larger venture and savings-to-investment flows. Cyber Compliance Clock: The EU Cyber Resilience Act reporting deadlines start rolling, with early warning in 24 hours and penalties up to €15m or 2.5% of turnover. Canada-EU “Unique Alliance”: Prime Minister Mark Carney said Canada is not seeking EU membership but is pursuing a “unique alliance,” sparking sovereignty concerns. Energy & Industry: Serbia inaugurated the 154MW Čibuk 2 wind farm, adding to a growing Western Balkans renewables hub. UK Business Tax Fight: UK family businesses urged Chancellor John Healey to drop inheritance-tax changes they say are chilling investment and hiring. France Wine Shock: Champagne output is projected to plunge sharply in 2026 after extreme heat forced early harvesting and raised winemaking challenges.