EU Council Presidency (Ireland): Ireland kicked off its six-month EU Council term with Zelenskyy in Dublin, framing priorities around values, competitiveness and security, with housing flagged as a key focus. Ukraine Defence Funding: The EU began disbursing the second tranche of its €90bn Ukraine loan, with €3.9bn for defence (including drones) and more support tied to the broader repayment plan using frozen Russian assets. Sanctions & Kyiv Attacks: EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas vowed fresh sanctions after a major Russian strike on Kyiv, saying condemnation won’t stop attacks. Armenia Pushback Against Russia: Von der Leyen pledged €18m more and tariff liberalisation for about 80% of Armenian exports, as Armenia faces Russian trade pressure. Hungary vs Ukraine Protection: Hungary opposed an EU plan to limit temporary protection for Ukrainian men of military age, saying it will keep accepting those fleeing the war. EU-Asia Trade Talks: China and the EU agreed to hold ministerial trade talks 1–2 times a year, with a focus on rebalancing and areas like AI and the green transition. Big Tech Antitrust: The EU’s top court is set to rule on Google’s €4.1bn Android fine, a major test of EU competition enforcement. Trade Measures on China: New EU rules took effect on low-value parcel levies (€3) and steel safeguards, aimed at reducing trade imbalance and protecting industry. Summer Border Chaos: Airlines and airports urged the EU to pause EES biometric border checks during peak travel, warning of “critical” queue problems. EU Safety Rules: From July 7, new cars registered in France must meet updated EU safety requirements, including an emergency flashing brake light.