Diesel Diplomacy: The EU moved to release emergency diesel after US pressure and a threatened export ban, with G7 leaders agreeing to a coordinated 100 million barrels over four months; Trump says the ban is off the table, while Brussels rejects any restriction as damaging trust and notes the impact on US pump prices may be limited. Migration & Borders: EU ministers gave final approval to tougher return rules, including broader penalties for people ordered to leave and the possibility of “return hubs” outside the bloc, as the EU tightens irregular migration enforcement. EU Budget Fight: Seventeen member states banded together to protect farm and cohesion funding in the 2028–2034 budget, setting up a confrontation with countries pushing deeper cuts. EU Institutions & Governance: The Council of Ministers approved a draft law to create an independent Fiscal Council reporting directly to parliament to monitor fiscal rules and risks. EU Enlargement Standoff: Von der Leyen told North Macedonia it must amend its constitution to recognise Bulgaria’s minority to unlock accession talks. UK Politics & Security: British police charged a man accused of killing former minister Ann Widdecombe with preparing terrorist acts, including against Nigel Farage. Tech & Public Sector: The European Commission’s Microsoft Teams alternative, Element Pro, is drawing harsh internal reviews from officials.