Oct 2, 2026, 04:00 AM UTC

Addressing the UN General Assembly, French President Emmanuel Macron sharply criticized diplomatic efforts in the Middle East, describing the situation in Gaza as a "shameful spectacle" while denouncing Israeli violations in the West Bank. His statements drew criticism from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Earlier at the summit, US President Donald Trump defended his unilateral foreign policy decisions in Iran and Venezuela, asserting, "While others talk, I act." Trump issued threats against Tehran, warning he would "annihilate" the nation if provoked, and predicted the fall of Cuba's government while highlighting American access to Venezuelan oil resources.

Sources: Canarias7, El Mundo, La Vanguardia

Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković announced targets to increase average net monthly salaries to €1,600 by 2028, alongside planned October consultations to adjust the minimum wage. Concurrently, the government outlined a €3 billion industrial strategy through 2034 aimed at modernizing manufacturing, boosting technology adoption, and raising the sector's share of GDP.

However, business leaders and economic analysts expressed concern over structural challenges. Mislav Balković, head of the Croatian Employers' Association, emphasized that rising labor costs are outpacing productivity growth and called for the real sector to lead economic expansion. Meanwhile, former economy minister Ljubo Jurčić warned that the economy is drifting "without an engine or a rudder," noting that decelerating quarterly growth and persistent inflation are eroding consumer purchasing power.

Sources: HRT Vijesti, Index, Poslovni dnevnik, Vijesti.

U.S. President Donald Trump has warned the European Union of potential heavy tariffs and trade restrictions if Brussels pursues closer integration with Canada. The threat follows European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen's proposal to offer Ottawa associate membership status within the bloc. Trump characterized the initiative as "ridiculous" and signaled that Washington could consider such moves hostile to American economic interests, depending on European motivations. The debate reflects growing realignment as Canada explores deeper ties with Europe amid trade friction with Washington.

Sources: 444, HVG, Telex.

A Wall Street Journal investigation cited by regional media has raised questions about US Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle and lobbyist Christos Marafatsos regarding their involvement in European energy deals. Reports indicate Guilfoyle promoted Greek firm Aktor, meeting Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama in Tirana alongside company executives. Shortly after the meeting, a $6 billion agreement was finalized to supply Albania with gas. The findings highlight growing scrutiny surrounding the connections between American diplomacy, political lobbying, and corporate energy interests across Southern Europe.

Sources: Gazeta Tema, Koha