"Couldn't communicate with the helper application." with Google Drive 2024

I am trying to transfer file folders from Google Drive to a the iphone but keep getting an error message

The Operation can not be Completed. Couldn't communicate with the Helper application."

Phone iPhone SE (3rd Gen)

IOS 18.1.1

Google Drive downloaded and signed in,

phone can access the files.

Google Drive left open in the background

File manager opened and access Google Drive through the app

Select folder and tried various ways like Copy and Move. but when trying to paste get the message.

Interestingly the folder only has 3 files despite the message the folder and 2 files transfer before the message.

The folder on Gdrive is set to sharing and editing.

Tried:

Rebooting the phone

logging out of the google Drive and logging back in

Tried transferring from Google Drive to iCloud = same error message.

Goal: transfer entire folder not individual files with the least steps.

Is this a "folder" issue or an issue with a permission?

I tried a few different 3rd party file managers but they resulted in the same message. ES File Explorer works but I am not sure I trust the app even though I downloaded it at the app store.