Baltic Security Escalation: Estonia says a Russian-flagged LNG carrier in the Baltic Sea has been spotted with permanently mounted heavy machine guns, a first for a civilian energy ship, raising fears about NATO boarding and Kaliningrad’s energy lifeline. French Defence Upgrade: Naval Group handed over the nuclear attack submarine De Grasse to the French Navy, boosting anti-submarine and strike capabilities as France accelerates its Barracuda fleet. Ukraine Air Power Deal: Ukraine and Sweden signed an agreement for 16 Gripen E jets, with deliveries starting in early 2029 and training already underway. Heatwave Fallout: France reported at least 300 excess deaths in May and is sending ministers to Spain to study how society copes with 40°C conditions. Spanish Housing Pressure: Spain plans to raise VAT on holiday homes to 21% under a new housing package, potentially increasing costs for tourist lets. Migration Politics: A Spanish rescue team denies Venezuela entry restrictions and says it is transferring to help after the June 24 earthquake. German Security Concerns: Germany’s domestic intelligence warns of foreign spying on opposition activists, naming Iran, Pakistan and Morocco. EU Budget Fight: Germany is pushing for a €400bn cut to the EU’s next budget, calling the current proposal unaffordable. Visa Curbs on Russians: France becomes the fourth EU country to tighten Schengen visa rules for Russian citizens, limiting third-party submissions. Business Links: The Netherlands launches a Zimbabwe business network to connect investors and expand trade ties.