EU Sanctions Deadlock: EU ambassadors have delayed the deadline for extending Russia sanctions by one week (now until Sept. 22) after a fight over delisting Russian-Uzbek oligarch Alisher Usmanov and Mikhail Fridman, with Slovakia pushing for removals and France unexpectedly backing Usmanov—leaving most member states reluctant to lift restrictions while Russia’s war against Ukraine continues. Ukraine Response: Ukraine’s foreign minister Sybiha criticized any attempt to ease sanctions on Kremlin-linked oligarchs, arguing the pressure must stay as Russia escalates attacks. US Russia Sanctions Push: US lawmakers advanced amendments to a Russia sanctions bill, including proposals that would name countries eligible for up to 100% duties over Russian oil and gas—explicitly listing Slovakia and India among others. Local Politics: Slovakia’s coalition agreed on the opening and agenda for the Sept. 15 parliamentary session, with nearly 300 items expected to take about four weeks. Business & Jobs: Evonik broke ground on a major biotechnology expansion in Slovakia’s Fermas site, aiming to add fermentation capacity and create about 50 jobs by early 2028. Culture & Film: Slovak Pop Up announced its 2026 residency selections, supporting five feature-length projects with international mentorship. Sports (Slovakia-linked): Ghanaian midfielder Dennis Konney completed a permanent move to Spartak Trnava, while another young Ghanaian, Kwabena Frimpong, joined Dynamo Malzenice.