EU Sanctions: EU countries finally agreed a 21st Russia package after Greece secured a one-year LNG transport exemption; the deal targets more banks and crypto firms, freezes the Russian oil price cap for 12 months, and steps up pressure on the shadow fleet. EU Budget & Economy: Eurostat says the euro area and EU deficit-to-GDP eased to 3.1% in Q1 2026, while Croatia’s debt stays below the eurozone average but its deficit breaches the 3% limit again. Energy & Industry: Armenia’s regulator is working with EU experts on electricity market reform and energy storage rules under EU4Energy; meanwhile the Commission’s electrification push is framed as a financing and rollout challenge. UK–China Tensions: Chinese FM Wang Yi urged Britain to keep a fair, non-discriminatory business environment for Chinese firms and avoid linking security to trade, while also pressing the one-China principle. Climate & Wildfires: Heatwaves are driving major wildfires across Italy, France and Spain, with evacuations and firefighter deaths reported. EU Health & Regulation: EFSA cut the “forever chemical” TFA safe exposure level in drinking water, citing hormone effects. EU Competition: The Commission cleared Paramount’s Warner Bros deal in Europe with conditions, including ending a distribution JV. Transport Tech: Getlink warned EU border biometric checks for Channel Tunnel car passengers could slip beyond September 6 due to software instability. Auto Market: Europe’s car registrations rose 13.1% in June, with EVs and hybrids driving growth as petrol and diesel sales fell.