EU Accession Momentum: European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen told Ireland’s leadership that Albania and Montenegro are making steady progress, with a push to conclude Montenegro’s accession talks by year-end. EU Funding Pressure: In Sarajevo, EU High Representative Kaja Kallas warned Bosnia and Herzegovina it could lose further EU money unless stalled reforms, the Growth Plan and a chief negotiator are delivered. Montenegro in the spotlight: A separate report notes Montenegro still has not required removal of Chinese telecoms equipment despite US and EU calls. Energy & Industry: Portugal asked Morocco, Spain and the EU for extra firefighting aircraft as wildfires intensify, while Alstom began work on a €1.1bn electric train assembly plant in Portugal aimed at creating hundreds of jobs. Regional Business: AutoWallis said it will retain nearly HUF 5bn in 2025 after-tax profit to fund regional growth. Water Security: In Arizona, CAIDD and Cadiz Inc. signed an MOU for up to 10,000 acre-feet per year from a new groundwater bank source. AI & Youth: UNICEF estimates 20 million children across 10 countries are already using AI, including Montenegro, raising concerns about scams and misuse.