Spain–Italy Migration Row: Spain will impose passport, nationality and visa checks on flights and ships from Italy from midnight Saturday until Sept. 7, escalating a Ceuta-driven dispute after Rome refused to lift its own border controls (Italy says it won’t accept “ultimatums” and will keep checks at least until Aug. 15). Schengen Friction for Travellers: Despite the diplomatic fight, travel from Spain to Italy continues, but arrivals may face random document checks—an unusual reminder that Schengen can be tightened when governments claim security risks. Ceuta Security Build-up: Spain is reinforcing maritime surveillance off Ceuta with frigates “Navarra” and “Santa María,” as the crisis reshapes border policy. EU Sanctions on Russia: Ukraine’s acting foreign minister welcomed new EU sanctions tied to Russian aerial attacks, with Brussels signalling further pressure on missile supply chains. Energy & Climate Pressure: EU gas storage refilling is running far behind pace, while extreme heat and drought keep straining power systems and water-dependent industry. AI Act Goes Live: New EU AI Act transparency rules take effect for users, with obligations rolling out in phases. Healthcare Cyber Risk: A new index flags Poland, the UK, France and Germany in the highest-pressure tier for hospital ransomware and recovery strain. Iceland EU Vote: Brussels faces pushback as Iceland prepares a Brexit-style referendum on restarting EU accession talks.