German Space Autonomy: Isar Aerospace successfully launched its Spectrum rocket from Arctic Norway, marking the first orbital flight originating from Europe and underlining Berlin’s push for strategic independence. Balkan EU Friction: Ursula von der Leyen’s Western Balkans tour could be derailed by Serbia-related controversy after Mladić tributes, with EU enlargement officials cancelling visits. Russia-US Ukraine Talks: Vladimir Putin met US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner in the Kremlin, discussing a possible path to peace while Russia signals openness to negotiations. Germany’s Hybrid Threat Debate: Chancellor Merz warned of further Russian hybrid attacks after a Leipzig drone incident, arguing Germany must be ready to defend its constitutional order. AfD’s Saxony-Anhalt Moment: AfD closed its Saxony-Anhalt campaign vowing to “take our country back,” as protests in Magdeburg try to block a potential far-right breakthrough. Migration and Borders: The UK-France Dover ferry port faced another anti-migrant blockade, while Schengen’s Entry/Exit System starts for travellers from Monday, with queues expected. EU Migration “Return Hubs”: Denmark and four EU states plan return hubs outside the bloc from 2027, drawing rights-group criticism. France-Algeria Migration Tightening: Macron’s government moves to revise the 1968 Franco-Algerian migration deal after deportations and tougher visa steps. Niger Coup Row: France rejected Niger’s accusation it backed a failed mutiny, escalating a bitter post-coup dispute. Croatia Toxic Waste Protests: Tens of thousands rallied in Zagreb demanding action over illegal hazardous waste near Gospic, accusing the government of delay and cover-ups. UN Map Fight: The UN voted to replace Mercator with the Equal Earth projection, with the US the only no vote.