EU Accession Politics: Bulgarian President Iliana Iotova says she has “serious doubts” North Macedonia’s leadership truly wants EU membership, arguing Skopje is blocking its own path while EU policy was agreed in 2022. Language & Rights in EU Process: The European Parliament adopted an amendment urging Skopje to ensure Albanian-language exams in state testing, including the bar exam, are implemented in line with the Ohrid Framework Agreement. Diplomatic Security & Justice: In the arson attack on Bulgarian diplomatic vehicles in Skopje, prosecutors transferred the case to the Organized Crime unit, charging the suspect with endangering persons under international protection and seeking a detention measure. Regional Tensions: The Macedonia Foundation called off a planned June 21 civil blockade of three Bulgaria–North Macedonia border crossings after appeals from Bulgarian diplomats and talks with Skopje-linked institutions. EU-Western Balkans Alignment: At a Western Balkans summit, EU leaders pushed for faster integration, framing enlargement as a geostrategic priority tied to economic and security alignment. Public Safety Watch: A “Safe City” traffic camera system shows mixed results in Skopje, with residents in areas lacking cameras saying reckless driving continues despite official claims of reduced fatalities. Climate & Health: A record-breaking heatwave is driving emergency measures across Europe, with heat alerts also issued in North Macedonia and neighboring countries.