EU Accession Politics: North Macedonia’s foreign minister Timcho Mucunski says Skopje is ready to share its EU reform experience with Ukraine, while rejecting “intimidation” and unilateral concessions during accession, including the ongoing Bulgaria-related dispute over constitutional recognition of the Bulgarian minority. EU Enlargement Warning: EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos urged candidate countries to cut political dependencies tied to MAGA and avoid relationships that clash with EU long-term interests. Independence & Diplomacy: North Macedonia marked 35 years of independence with major public events, while Armenia’s PM Nikol Pashinyan sent a message calling for stronger political dialogue and sectoral cooperation. Human Rights & International Pressure: The EU UN ambassador condemned escalating repression in Georgia, endorsing a statement joined by North Macedonia; a UK-led core group also pressed Sri Lanka for concrete action on enforced disappearances and accountability. Defense & EUFOR: North Macedonia’s military contingent in EUFOR Althea marked Independence Day alongside partner forces. Energy & Investment: Alcazar Energy Partners reached financial close on the €180m Štip Wind Farm, targeting operation by 2028 and boosting clean power and jobs. Sports (National Interest): Scott McTominay’s successful heart ablation means he will miss Scotland’s Nations League matches including North Macedonia; separately, North Macedonia’s volleyball team opened the EuroVolley with a 3-0 loss to Bulgaria.