Gustavo de Arístegui: Geopolitical analysis of 23 September - EUROPE SAYS

• The European Union is struggling to finalize a sanctions package against Russia, with battle lines being drawn over the terms of the sanctions. • A Mediterranean minister is calling for EU funding to set up return hubs, highlighting the need for financial support to address the ongoing crisis.

• The European Union is planning to sanction the Russian military with a new focus, according to RFE/RL's Europe Editor Rikard Jozwiak. • This move would exclude Russia from potential membership in the European Economic Area, which currently includes countries like Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway.

• The European Parliament has 720 lawmakers, but a select group of 17 MEPs are notable to watch in the current political landscape. • Danish Social Democrat leader is at odds with the Spanish delegation led by García, following Denmark's criticism of Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez over the Ceuta crisis.

• The European Union has removed two Russian oligarchs from its sanctions blacklist, following a dispute that threatened the stability of the EU's sanctions regime. • Andris Kulbergs, the Latvian prime minister, quoted that Latvia opposed the removal of these individuals, being the only EU member state to do so until the end.

• The Department of Justice defended President Trump's media ban, arguing that certain news outlets' reporting jeopardized national security and spread falsehoods. • The DOJ cited reporting by CNN, MS Now, and Politico as examples of coverage that allegedly posed a risk to national security and spread false information.

• President Trump's lawyers are asking the courts to overrule a precedent that protects journalists' access to the White House, citing national security and midterms coverage. • The president signaled that he expects Judge Kelly to rule against him, and his position may only be vindicated by an appeal, indicating a potential lengthy legal battle.

• Iran's President accused the US and Israel of lawless attacks after President Trump threatened to annihilate Iran, according to recent statements. • Masoud Pezeshkian said Iran is open to diplomacy but will not accept limits on its civilian nuclear program, a position that could impact future negotiations.

• Bob Bauer wrote an essay on the challenges for legal commentary in the weeks leading up to Election Day as part of the NYU Democracy Project's series on the midterms. • The essay discusses Trump's rhetorical and legal assault on the electoral process, highlighting the need for careful and informed legal commentary.

• The US Department of Justice defended the Trump administration's decision to restrict access for journalists from CNN, MS NOW, and POLITICO to the White House. • The Department of Justice argued that access to the White House grounds is a 'privilege' and that the President has a compelling interest in enforcing professional standards and safeguarding national security information.

• The United States is experiencing growing internal divisions within its political parties and increasing voter questioning of the two-party system. • A TV show discussion featuring Josh Rushing, Briahna Joy Gray, and Robby Soave explored the Democrats, Republicans, and the possibility of a third choice.

• Conservative and right-wing movements are gaining momentum across Europe and Brazil as voters react to establishment failures and rising leftism. • Real GDP per capita in Germany has declined since 2019, contrasting with an 11 percent increase in the United States during the same period.