NATO Ankara Summit: Britain will lead a European drive for long-range NATO missiles as allies race to plug gaps left by US retrenchment, while Mark Rutte says European allies and Canada are already on a path to meet higher defence spending targets. EU Defence & Ukraine: Rutte also urged more air defence support for Ukraine amid a spending surge, as Europe looks to expand its defence industry and procurement. Middle East Diplomacy: France’s Macron made his first post-Assad visit to Damascus, backing a “free, pluralist” Syria and signaling sanctions-lifting and reconstruction engagement. EU Migration & Rights: Parliament President Metsola condemned racist shouts after approval of the new Return Directive, and the EU told France to amend its under-15 social media ban law to fit the Digital Services Act. EU Security & Rule of Law: EU lawmakers and civil society escalated pressure after reports that a PEGA spyware inquiry member was hacked with Pegasus, demanding accountability. Climate & Public Safety: Wildfires across southern Europe forced evacuations and prompted EU support, as the heatwave keeps intensifying the air-conditioning debate. Sports Politics: FIFA reversed US striker Folarin Balogun’s red-card suspension after Trump contact, drawing a backlash from UEFA and Belgium. EU Sanctions: Adoption of the EU’s 21st Russia sanctions package may slip to autumn if member states can’t agree, with an oil price-cap freeze handled separately. Domestic Governance: Spain launched a State Fertilizer Plan to cut dependence and boost food security, while Hungary faces a constitutional crisis after fast-tracked changes.