Ukraine Diplomacy Push: UK, France and Germany back Zelensky’s call for direct Ukraine–Russia ceasefire talks, with the “current line of contact” as a starting point and security guarantees in any deal. EU Defence Coordination: EU defence ministers meet in Nicosia to discuss maritime security, Iran-linked sanctions, and how to curb Russia’s “shadow fleet,” alongside further funding via the European peace facility. Armenia Election Under Pressure: Armenia votes in a parliamentary contest seen as a test of Pashinyan’s Westward course amid Russian pressure; early results point to Civil Contract leading and pledging continued EU rapprochement. E3-Ukraine Security Talks: Zelensky briefs Starmer on air-defence and winter energy protection needs ahead of G7/NATO-related meetings. EU Tech Sovereignty: The Commission unveils a sweeping tech sovereignty package targeting semiconductors, AI/cloud, and open-source to cut digital dependency. National Sanctions Workarounds: France and other Europeans reportedly move to coordinated national sanctions on “violent” settlers after EU-level unanimity stalls. UK Heathrow Row: Heathrow’s third-runway consultation is accused of being rushed, sparking fresh local backlash. Border Delays for Travellers: IATA warns the EU’s Entry/Exit System could mean passport-control waits of up to six hours for Britons. Business & Industry (Egypt): Egypt’s PM backs new Alexandria investments, including Sahinler’s garment expansion and Coca-Cola Hellenic’s $35m production line. Healthcare Innovation: EU approves Sanofi’s Sarclisa subcutaneous on-body injector for multiple myeloma.