EU-US Visa Clash: The EU urged Washington to reconsider its second straight year of visa denials for the Palestinian UN delegation, including Mahmoud Abbas, ahead of the UN General Assembly in New York, citing UN host-state obligations. UK Brexit Politics: New polling suggests all but four UK constituencies back reversing Brexit and rejoining the EU, adding pressure on Labour’s “closer ties” approach. EU Budget Fight: EU leaders are weighing tough compromises for the 2028–2034 budget as reforms and defence priorities collide with limits on national contributions. Ukraine Defence Funding: The Commission approved another €3.3bn tranche for drones and missiles under the Ukraine loan, as EU support for air defence and deterrence ramps up. Energy Windfall Tax: Finance ministers discussed taxing super-profits of energy firms amid near-record fuel prices, with the Commission signalling member-state-led solutions. Kids Act Online Safety: The Commission proposed an “EU Kids Act” to restrict independent social media accounts for under-13s and tighten parental controls and age checks, with penalties for non-compliance. Sanctions Deadlock: EU diplomats warn Russia-linked sanctions listings could be extinguished if a compromise fails by Sept. 21, as France and others push back on delisting oligarchs. EU External Action: The EU appointed a new ambassador to Somalia as Mogadishu pledged deeper cooperation across security, governance and trade.