EU Defence & Hybrid Threats: EU defence ministers met in Brussels as Kaja Kallas warned Russia is preparing more sabotage and urged faster filling of capability gaps for Ukraine, air defence and drones. EU Sanctions: The bloc imposed sanctions on 10 individuals and 17 entities over the unlawful deportation of Ukrainian children to Russia. EU Enlargement Roadmaps: Politico reports the Commission is drafting clearer accession roadmaps with indicative timelines for Montenegro, Ukraine, Moldova and Albania, with obligations for EU members—while some states are excluded. Serbia’s EU Strain: Aleksandar Vučić said EU meetings were “torture” over repeated pressure to impose sanctions on Russia, highlighting the friction behind Belgrade’s accession path. France & the Far Right: Marine Le Pen’s National Rally gained a record 14 seats in partial Senate elections, clearing the threshold to form a senate group and boosting her 2027 campaign; a poll also points to a Le Pen–Melenchon run-off. Spain Housing Crisis: Madrid protests surged after the eviction of 87-year-old Maricarmen, with a new housing decree due Tuesday. UK–EU Politics: Labour conference coverage featured Ed Miliband arguing Britain’s future lies in a stronger, deeper EU relationship, while Sadiq Khan urged Andy Burnham to start rejoining work immediately. Energy & Markets: Oil rose after Trump rebuffed Iran’s Hormuz offer, while European shares were mixed and tech slid after OpenAI paused advanced AI training. Pope Leo in Metz: Pope Leo XIV used his Schuman-linked stop in Metz to urge Europe to return to its roots while engaging migrants and defending unity.