European Union

Trump had on Tuesday dismissed Russia's military prowess and mocked its inability to beat Ukraine in a matter of days

US President Donald Trump has lambasted the United Nations in a speech to its General Assembly, telling the organisation that it was "not even close to living up to" its potential. He said that he himself had ended seven wars without any support from the UN. He also criticised Europe's climate and migration policies, among other things. Commentators debate what it all means.

French President Emmanuel Macron announced France's recognition of Palestine as an independent state at a UN conference in New York. He described the move as a necessary step towards peace. Canada, the UK, Australia and Portugal had already recognised Palestine shortly before France, while Belgium, Malta and Luxembourg went on to do so shortly afterwards. The discussions at the meeting in New York were focused on the Gaza war and the goal of a two-state solution.

Incursions by drones of unknown origin left the airports in Copenhagen and Oslo crippled for several hours on Monday. These incidents come after various violations of Polish, Romanian and Estonian airspace by Russian drones and jets. Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte has said that the alliance will only combat aircraft if they pose an "immediate threat" to the population or infrastructure.

The Republic of Moldova will hold parliamentary elections on 28 September. The pro-European PAS party led by President Maia Sandu has been at the helm of this country of 2.6 million inhabitants over the past four years. Sandu and her party have warned repeatedly during the election campaign that Russia may try to influence the vote. Commentators see the people of Moldova facing a choice between Europe and Russian paternalism.

Think tank Bruegel warns green procurement push could trigger regulatory, fiscal and geopolitical risks