Moldova Political Shake-up: Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu says he is stepping down, triggering the government’s resignation, in a surprise move that adds uncertainty for the EU-candidate country. Housing & Foreign Buyers: Spain’s Canary Islands backs tougher rules to limit property purchases by non-residents, aiming to cool the housing crisis while navigating EU free-movement constraints. EU Migration Externalisation: Several EU states are again pushing “return hubs” outside the bloc, including Rwanda and Uzbekistan, to process rejected asylum claims—an attempt to move deportation logistics beyond EU territory. Spyware & Rule of Law: A former Greek MEP who investigated Pegasus hacking says his phone was targeted with Pegasus spyware, renewing pressure on EU governments and EU institutions over surveillance abuse. Ireland’s EU Presidency Kick-off: Ireland begins its Council presidency with joint meetings in Cork with the European Commission, with competitiveness, security and values on the agenda. Heatwave Fallout: Europe’s extreme summer conditions are reshaping public health and even consumer habits, with research suggesting alcohol demand drops at the highest temperatures. South Caucasus Diplomacy: EU Commission President von der Leyen meets Armenia’s PM Nikol Pashinyan, announcing new connectivity support and linking reforms to deeper EU ties.