EU Sanctions Deadlock: EU ambassadors extended Russia-linked individual sanctions for just 7 days as talks stall over delisting Alisher Usmanov and Mikhail Fridman, with France joining Slovakia and frustrating other member states ahead of the Sept. 15 deadline. Slovakia Tech & Industry: Evonik broke ground on an ~€80M biotech expansion in Slovenská Ľupča to add downstream fermentation capacity, aiming for completion in early 2028 and ~50 new jobs. Hydropower Modernisation: ANDRITZ and VUJE won a contract to modernise Slovakia’s Gabčíkovo hydropower plant, upgrading electromechanical equipment across all eight Kaplan units to boost efficiency and extend service life by at least 30 years. AI Data Centres Debate: Slovakia’s government is pitching the country for AI data centres, citing water and stable power, while critics warn about heavy local resource demands and question cybersecurity readiness. Electric Trucks Push: MAN unveiled the eTGX at IAA Transportation with up to 720 km range and faster charging designed to make long-haul electrification practical. Smart Glasses Privacy Backlash: Europe is escalating calls for action against “pervert” smart glasses after covert recording claims, including a UK petition for a sales ban and a school ban in Oslo. Local Discovery: Archaeologists uncovered a Roman military camp near Šurany tied to Marcus Aurelius, including soldiers’ remains and weapons, ahead of an industrial park. Crypto Reshuffle: Bitcoin Suisse proposed cutting up to 60 Swiss jobs and shifting more software and back-office work toward Bratislava and a planned Vietnam hub.