EU–China Sanctions Clash: China lodged a formal protest after the EU added 14 Chinese firms to its 21st Russia sanctions package, warning the move could damage ties; Beijing retaliated by placing 14 EU entities on its export control list. EU Competition & US Trade War: The EU’s €890m Google fine under the Digital Markets Act triggered a fresh US Section 301 trade probe threat and tariff warnings from Donald Trump, escalating the fight over tech regulation and market access. Russia Fuel Strain: Ukraine drone strikes are blamed for disruption to Russian refining and supply routes, driving queues and rationing at gas stations. Ukraine–Poland Cooperation: PMs of Ukraine and Poland discussed joint infrastructure and energy projects, with Ukraine thanking Poland for support on the latest EU sanctions. Consumer Rights in Estonia: Estonia drafted a bill to strengthen warranty and repair rules for electronics and white goods, extending warranties to three years and requiring repair availability in-country. EU Protein Plan: The Commission unveiled a Protein Action Plan focused on plant-based options for livestock feed, aiming to cut import reliance while keeping animal agriculture central. EU Sanctions on Chess: The EU sanctioned FIDE president Arkady Dvorkovich, prompting his resignation and interim handover to Viswanathan Anand. Business & Markets: European shares edged up as SAP lifted tech sentiment, while Eurostat data showed EU employment tied to foreign final demand hit a record 31.6m jobs. Extreme Weather: Wildfires in France forced mass evacuations near Cap Ferret and sent smoke toward Madrid, compounding heatwave pressures on tourism and local economies.