Brexit Fallout for SMEs: A decade on, UK small firms say EU trade barriers still bite—lead times up to a week and 63% reporting “significant” obstacles, with a third planning to cut EU business. UK Politics: Andy Burnham won the Makerfield by-election and is set to challenge Keir Starmer for Labour leadership, pitching “affordable” politics and a focus on neglected communities. EU Industrial Policy: China’s chamber warns the EU’s Industrial Accelerator Act could be “counterproductive,” citing procurement limits, foreign-investment conditions and legal uncertainty. Critical Minerals vs Water: The Commission is set to rewrite water rules to speed mines, but analysis flags many strategic projects in drying, drought-prone regions—raising alarm over water stress. EU Budget Fight: Ireland’s EU presidency kicks off “listening mode” ahead of tough talks on the €1.73tn seven-year budget and new funding sources. EU-Russia Sanctions & Dialogue: EU leaders extend Russia sanctions for 12 months and open a Kremlin contact channel, while Moscow signals readiness to resume talks without ultimatums. China-Europe Trade: Rail freight continues to expand, with the China-Europe Railway Express topping 130,000 trips by May 9 and $520bn cargo value. Energy & Industry: BMW’s profit warning underscores China demand weakness; Germany also faces a US Section 301 probe into drug pricing. Tech & Business: Infobip jumps to No.16 in Fortune’s Europe’s Most Innovative Companies ranking.