EU Migration Crackdown: The European Parliament backed tougher return rules, including wider detention powers and “return hubs” outside the bloc, with 418 votes to 218. Air Passenger Rights: MEPs agreed new rules on compensation, child seating and clearer flight pricing, pushing airlines to show fares that include hand luggage from the start. Ukraine & Moldova Accession Race: EU opened accession talks with both countries, but the next clusters could turn the process into a pace contest. Western Balkans Enlargement Pressure: Parliament urged sustained reforms across the region, warning Kosovo and North Macedonia that stalled rule-of-law work could cost EU momentum and money. EU Summit Strain: Leaders meet in Brussels juggling Ukraine, migration enforcement, competitiveness, the Middle East and the next long-term budget. Circular Economy for Cars: Parliament is set for a final vote on EU car circularity rules, tightening recycling targets and export obligations. Slovakia Fiscal Test: Slovakia faces a confidence vote after debt breached constitutional limits. Israel-EU Diplomatic Fallout: Israel’s foreign minister cut contact with EU chief Kaja Kallas after alleged apartheid comparisons. Food Security Relief: Ministers backed faster CAP flexibility to help farmers hit by fertiliser price spikes. Energy Policy Shift: Sweden approved changes to simplify uranium mining and expand nuclear project permitting.