EU Clean-Energy Tax Cuts: The Commission is moving to lower power bills by cutting taxes tied to the shift from oil and gas to renewables, while also tackling “system costs” and offering targeted relief for energy-intensive firms. Israel/West Bank Sanctions: France is coordinating national asset freezes and travel bans on individuals linked to West Bank violence after EU unanimity stalled, with Britain and Norway named among partners. Pope Leo in Spain: Pope Leo XIV begins a high-profile Madrid visit focused on migration and reconciliation, praising Spain’s peace stance while drawing huge crowds and spotlighting the Canary Islands’ migrant arrivals. Kosovo Snap Election: Kosovo holds another early parliamentary vote amid a political deadlock that has already triggered two elections in 18 months, with EU and NATO accession at stake. Armenia Election Watch: Armenia’s parliamentary vote is seen as a referendum on PM Nikol Pashinyan’s pro-EU course versus a Russia-leaning alternative, with coalition formation uncertain. EU/UK EV Tariffs: Carmakers urge the EU to delay Brexit EV tariff rules again, arguing they can’t meet “made in Europe” battery origin targets for 2027. EU Tech Regulation Win: Meta scores a rare win at the EU General Court over how Facebook Marketplace was handled under the Digital Markets Act, though Messenger remains in scope. EU Visa Crackdown on Russians: The EU is tightening Schengen visa rules for Russian nationals as part of broader migration and security policy.**