EU-China Trade Hardening: EU Commission leaders are lining up a tougher stance on China, with talk of a “diversification instrument” pushing firms in critical sectors to use multiple suppliers across countries, wider use of the foreign subsidies rules, and faster safeguard actions to curb import surges. Ukraine Accession Momentum: Ursula von der Leyen says the coming weeks are “important” for decisive steps in Ukraine’s EU path, as Kyiv moves forward with an EU loan ratification draft for a €90bn framework. Armenia Under Pressure: Russia warns it could suspend gas, fuel and diamond supplies if Armenia continues its EU accession process, while Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan insists Armenians must have real alternatives. EU Sanctions and Diplomacy: EU states summon Russian envoys over threats to Kyiv and keep sanctions extended, as the bloc prepares more measures. Tech and Security: Spain argues EU countries should keep final say over whether foreign telecom providers can access critical networks, amid cybersecurity and sovereignty concerns. AI Governance Debate: EU AI sandboxes are rolling out, but critics question whether they deliver safety alongside innovation. EU Court Watch: Hungary’s LGBT+ content restrictions are ruled unlawful by the EU’s top court, forcing repeal. Energy Infrastructure: A reminder that gas pipelines, storage and LNG links are still central to Europe’s security of supply. EU Packaging Rules: New EU packaging waste rules will tighten compliance and add bureaucracy from August.