Heatwave & Wildfires: Spain’s southern Almería region reported at least 12 deaths in a wildfire near Los Gallardos, with evacuations and hundreds of firefighters battling blazes as record heat continues across southern Europe. EU Budget Talks: Ireland’s Council presidency says it will “make every effort” to secure an agreement on the EU’s 2028–2034 multiannual budget by year-end, positioning itself as an “honest broker” amid disputes over funding and spending. Sanctions & Russia: Bulgaria’s government approved its position on the EU’s 21st sanctions package against Russia and Belarus, backing pressure for negotiations while keeping objections on specific items. Surveillance Law: The European Parliament passed “chat control” rules allowing private-message scanning for child sexual abuse material until 2028, despite a majority voting against stopping it, with an exemption for end-to-end encrypted communications. Human Rights (Pakistan): The Parliament adopted a resolution condemning the abduction, forced conversion and child marriage of minority girls in Pakistan, spotlighting a 13-year-old case and urging stronger protections. Innovation & Investment: The EU’s European Innovation Scoreboard shows innovation performance rising since 2019, while the EIB unveiled a €15bn scale-up push to help tech firms grow. Aviation & Travel: Heathrow is close to losing its title as Europe’s busiest airport to Istanbul, as passenger figures show a narrowing gap. Energy Connectivity: The EU launched a €5m Global Gateway project to expand cross-border electricity trade in South Asia.