paradox launcher issue

Since launcher updated to 2026.8, it says loading game settings failed

and sometimes says problem with launcher-v2.sqlite file in game folder (I only see Stellaris in my Paradox folder and not Cities Skyline)

If I uninstall it and launch the game (Stellaris) from Steam, it installs 2024 and works but promptly tries to update to 2026.8

Am I missing a work around?