Ukraine War & Sanctions: Germany’s foreign minister Johann Wadephul arrived in Kyiv to reaffirm support ahead of Ukraine’s Independence Day, as Russia’s strikes keep hitting civilians and energy infrastructure; Ukraine also vowed retaliation after a deadly drone attack on a shopping centre in Kryvyi Rih, while Zelenskiy signed sanctions on Rusal-linked firms and citizens tied to Russia’s military supply chains. EU Budget Talks: European Council President António Costa kicked off a “tour des capitales” to gather national priorities for the 2028–2034 EU budget, aiming for agreement by end-2026 amid election-driven political divides. Middle East Policy: The EU Commission joined calls to halt Israel’s West Bank E1 settlement plan, warning it undermines a two-state solution, while EU leaders weigh broader sanctions options. Migration & Deportations: Germany and four EU states are in technical talks with Rwanda on “return hubs” for rejected asylum seekers. Trade Tensions: The US imposed 50% tariffs on $20bn of Canadian goods; Canada says it will retaliate “dollar for dollar,” spotlighting EU governments’ wider concern about transatlantic trade shocks. Domestic Governance: England’s government rejected claims that planning reforms make it harder to stop unauthorised Traveller site developments, saying councils retain powers.