EU Enlargement Watch: The European Commission unveiled “Preparing for a Larger Union,” proposing a faster, more flexible accession path for countries like Ukraine, plus a shift toward qualified majority voting for some interim decisions and sanctions—while keeping unanimity for final membership and adding longer rule-of-law safeguards, including a 15-year “emergency brake.” EU-Morocco Security: In Brussels, the EU and Morocco held a second high-level security dialogue focused on counter-terrorism, cybersecurity, and regional stability across the Maghreb and beyond. Spain-Catalonia Legal Twist: Spain’s Constitutional Court ruled that an amnesty law for Catalan separatists applies to Puigdemont’s embezzlement charges, and a judge lifted his arrest warrant—setting up a potential return ahead of a snap election. France Protests: France saw another major day of high school protests with police using tear gas and hundreds arrested, as tensions over education and migration-linked politics keep escalating. AI Race: French startup Mistral launched its biggest open model yet, “Le Chonk,” aiming to narrow the gap with China’s open AI push. Digital Safety: Apple’s Tim Cook praised EU efforts to protect children online after meeting MEPs in Strasbourg, as the EU KIDS Act moves through negotiations. Culture & Society: Ireland’s “culture card” idea is effectively shelved for 2027 due to lack of funding, despite earlier hopes for a €100 voucher for teens.