[2023] A launcher update has failed. Check your internet connection

I don't see why the launcher is failing to update to 2023.9 but it seems to be at 2023.8.1 at least - is that the version you see?

But that should have nothing to do with your ability to play this game MP. What exactly is happening there?  

BaronSoup said: I forgot to mention, from there, I'm unable to login to my Paradox account.

In the launcher and game? Because obviously you can do it here!

Did using the VPN help that?  

I'd almost guarantee that was an ISP issue. Glad it came good!