UK-EU Brexit Reset: Labour PM Andy Burnham says rejoining the EU is “on the table,” outlining options from staying put to customs union, single-market return or “all the way” rejoin ahead of a planned November summit. Russian Hybrid Threats: Belgium’s defence minister warns of a “dark winter” as Russia steps up hybrid attacks, pushing faster air-defence scaling and access to Ukrainian drone know-how. EU Single Market for Candidates: Brussels is considering “gradual integration” for candidate states, offering earlier single-market access and research participation if they align with EU positions. Crisis Communications: The Commission backs a new EU critical communication system to link first responders across borders via resilient broadband tech. Baltic Nuclear Warning: Russia tells NATO it could use nuclear weapons if Kaliningrad were isolated, while espionage cases and Ukraine funding gaps keep pressure on Europe. Ukraine War Funding: Kyiv says it still needs $20bn to sustain active hostilities into early 2027. EU Defence Industry: The Commission approves five joint defence projects worth $369m, with Ukraine involved in four. Energy Costs: EU says it paid over €100bn extra for imported oil and gas due to global price spikes, while the UK braces for another winter bill surge. Payments Sovereignty: European payment groups form a joint company in Madrid to reduce reliance on Visa and Mastercard. Morocco Leadership: King Mohammed VI appoints Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri as the country’s first woman prime minister.