[2021] Exceptionally slow loading and startup crash in paradox launcher, Stellaris and Cities: Skylines

Not a forum problem, so moved appropriately.  

I suspect you have multiple problems there, including perhaps a Steam issue.

To test your theory of the launcher being the cause, run stellaris.exe directly from File Explorer. If that has a problem it is not the launcher at fault for that issue.

What launcher version do you see? Current is 2021.6  

Not an issue I've come across before I have to say!

What antivirus app do you use?  

Not a problem, no need to apologise! You weren't to know.

All the best!