Tech Sovereignty: The EU unveiled its tech sovereignty package, aiming to curb dependence on US Big Tech in sensitive cloud and to accelerate data centres and chips support—though analysts warn “liberation day” is more slogan than reality. Energy & Data Centres: Brussels also moved to set energy standards for data centres as AI demand strains grids, while a Strategic Roadmap for Digitalisation and AI in Energy pushes smart grids and cybersecurity. Armenia-EU vs Moscow: EU officials backed Armenia’s European integration with a demand for full severance of religious and spiritual ties with Moscow, as Russia warns of “hybrid” pressure ahead of elections. Ukraine Drone Cooperation: Zelensky said Ukraine will send counter-drone experts to Romania and Baltic states, sharing interceptor know-how as drone incidents rise. Economy Watch: Greece was removed from the EU’s macroeconomic imbalance list, marking the end of 16 years of heightened surveillance. Business & Funding: France’s Innovorder raised €20m to expand restaurant AI and digital operations; Semble secured £30m Series C to scale outpatient care coordination across Europe. Environment Response: The EU launched its biggest wildfire response operation, deploying 777 firefighters and aircraft across southern Europe.