EU Border & Crypto Crackdowns: The EU tightened MiCA rules on crypto-asset service providers from July 1, forcing non-licensed firms to stop onboarding and marketing, while the EU admitted its new digital Entry/Exit System is suffering “technical problems,” worsening summer airport queues. Heatwave Toll & Cooling Debate: Europe’s deadly June heatwave is being quantified again, with France confirming 2,025 excess deaths and research pointing to tens of thousands across the continent, reigniting fights over air conditioning access. NATO Summit Pressure: Ahead of the Ankara NATO summit, leaders are pushing faster European defence spending and capabilities as US commitment and Trump’s demands remain a live political risk. Ukraine Diplomacy Clash: Russia’s deputy foreign minister dismissed European settlement talk as lacking constructive ideas, as Ukraine urges partners to use Europe’s tools to pressure Moscow after strikes. EU Governance & Legal Politics: A Cyprus-related watchdog appointment sparked controversy over links to a “Mafia State” probe, and France’s appeals court is set to rule on Marine Le Pen’s EU funds case, potentially reshaping the 2027 race. Energy & Aid: Egypt expects a €1.5bn tranche from EU macro-financial support, while EU–Cyprus gas deal moves forward with “marketable” status for fields. Economy & Industry: Europe’s auto sector faces restructuring pressure from Chinese EV competition, and EU tobacco consultations were reportedly flooded with AI-written submissions linked to a major company. Migration & Public Opinion: Trump again attacked Europe’s immigration policies as turning the continent “Third World,” while Pope Leo urged action on migrants from Lampedusa.