Carpathian Eight Launch: Ukraine and Central European neighbours unveiled the Carpathian Eight forum in Bukovel, aiming to align on wartime security, energy resilience, transport links and EU integration—though it starts with declarations, not binding powers or confirmed funding. Slovakia-Poland Diplomacy: Slovakia is set to name Igor Maukš as its new ambassador to Poland, with a focus on cross-border cooperation and support for Slovaks in Poland. Parliament-to-Parliament Talks: Slovakia’s parliament chief Richard Raši met Austria and Czech counterparts in the S3 format, discussing EU enlargement, migration and digital transformation of parliaments. Energy Pressure in Central Europe: Czech Industry and Trade Minister Karel Havlíček warned of another energy crisis as wholesale prices feed through to consumers, pushing for EU ETS changes and possible electricity price caps. Drought Hits the Region: Nine countries logged their driest August on record, with Hungary and parts of Slovakia and Serbia hardest hit. NATO-Russia Tensions: Reports of increased NATO flights near Russia’s border and escalating rhetoric keep the risk of confrontation in focus. Border Controls Extended: Austria prolonged internal checks with Slovakia, Czechia, Hungary and Slovenia through March 2027 to target smuggling and irregular migration. Power Grid Strain: Low Danube water forced Central European thermal plants to cut output, including major drops at Hungary’s Paks. Logistics & Industry Moves: CEVA began operations at a Toledo apparel hub in Spain; Siemens is building a rail service center in Poland; DP World is expanding a chemicals logistics hub in Wolfenbüttel, Germany.