Middle East Tensions and Markets: European stocks edged higher as Trump said Israel and Hezbollah agreed to dial back fighting, even as both sides continued attacks; oil hovered around $94–$95 with the Strait of Hormuz still a flashpoint, while investors watched eurozone flash inflation and Ukraine reported major missile and drone strikes. Energy Security: bp’s regional VP said Caspian pipeline links to Europe are becoming more valuable amid geopolitical uncertainty, with Azerbaijan’s hub role seen as key for future supply. Ukraine–Turkey Gas Route: Ukraine and Turkey are working on a commercial and technical model for a new gas supply route using Ukraine’s transit and storage, potentially up to 5 bcm/year. Migration Crackdown: EU lawmakers backed rules to move rejected migrants to holding centres outside the bloc, as return enforcement remains a political flashpoint. Nuclear Deterrence Debate: The US is reportedly discussing expanding nuclear-capable deployments to more NATO states, with eastern flank countries among those interested. Heat and Inequality: A new EEA report says 38% of Europeans can’t afford air conditioning, with heat adaptation gaps worst in Greece, Portugal and France. Cyber Focus: UK firms are prioritising AI threat preparedness after surveys found AI-powered attacks are the top risk and many businesses suffered incidents. EU–US Trade: A Parliament committee voted to remove most US import duties to keep the transatlantic trade deal on track.