Spain recorded its joint-highest September temperature of 45.7C on 04 September 2026, matching a record from 2016. The exceptional heatwave, with temperatures exceeding 40C, has prompted calls for the European Commission to prioritise climate adaptation, highlighting the accelerating impacts of warming.

French minister for European Affairs Benjamin Haddad expressed confidence that the electorate will reject extremism in the upcoming 2027 presidential election. His remarks follow a poll indicating far-right candidate Marine Le Pen could secure between 34% and 35.5% of the first-round votes, positioning her as a frontrunner.

Lithuanian Foreign Affairs Minister Kęstutis Budrys has warned that EU deterrence measures against Russia have failed, as exemplified by a recent drone incident at Leipzig/Halle Airport linked to Russian sabotage. He called for enhanced EU security capabilities and stricter visa restrictions for Russian nationals.

A jury in Malta has acquitted businessman Yorgen Fenech of all charges in the 2017 car bomb killing of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia. The verdict, delivered in Valletta, concludes the prosecution of individuals linked to a case that highlighted Malta’s culture of impunity and raised significant concerns about political corruption.

Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham viewed the Bayeux Tapestry, symbolising Franco-British relations, during Macron’s visit to the UK. The tapestry, on loan for ten months, highlights cultural ties, while discussions also focus on migration and support for Ukraine.

Ukraine has notified the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) that Russian airspace is unsafe for civilian flights due to increased military activity. Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha urged caution, highlighting several past aviation incidents linked to Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine.