EU Sanctions Gridlock: Greece is objecting to a new EU Russia sanctions package over fears it would hit a Greek LNG shipping firm, delaying the 21st round that needs unanimous backing. Russia-Ukraine Escalation: Russia launched missile strikes on Kyiv while the EU Commission chief was in Ukraine, underscoring how Brussels’ diplomacy is playing out amid battlefield pressure. EU Sanctions—Drones Tech: The EU added firms tied to Russian drone navigation and ballistic missile components to its sanctions list, aiming to choke the full production chain. Western Balkans Enlargement: Hungary blocked opening new EU accession clusters for Ukraine (and Moldova), stalling progress at a Council working meeting. EU Budget Relief via Antitrust: The Commission’s Google fine is set to plug a budget hole, with the bloc using the €4.6bn payment to ease fiscal pressure. AI & Big Tech Rules: The EU is pushing major changes forcing Google to open Android and share search access with rivals, intensifying the fight over AI competition. Border & Travel Tech: Gibraltar’s new post-fence setup is being rolled out alongside EES-related checks, with officials insisting airport issues are being resolved. Catalonia Amnesty: Spain’s amnesty row continues after the CJEU backed the law’s compatibility with EU rules, but arrest risks for Puigdemont remain. Ukraine Government Shake-up: Protests erupted after Zelensky dismissed Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, as a new cabinet takes shape. EU-India Trade Push: India and Finland discussed doubling trade by 2030 via an EU-India free trade deal. Armenia Food Access: Armenia approved fish export registration rules for EU TRACES, clearing the way for shipments. Gaza Reconstruction Pressure: MEPs grilled EU leaders over Gaza rebuilding costs and accountability for destruction.