EU AI Regulation: The European Commission published an AI content labelling playbook ahead of the EU AI Act’s August 2, 2026 transparency deadline, pushing clearer signals when people interact with or consume AI-generated material. Ukraine Diplomacy: Belgian PM Bart De Wever said the EU must have a seat at the table in any Russia peace talks tied to EU interests, warning against outsiders negotiating for the bloc. EU Trade vs China: EU leaders backed tougher trade defences against Chinese export overcapacity while also calling for “constructive dialogue” with Beijing, as the bloc’s goods deficit nears €360bn. US-Iran & Energy Routes: A US-Iran framework deal is easing pressure on oil flows, with major ships starting to transit the Strait of Hormuz again and US gas prices dipping below $4, though drivers still pay more than before the war. ASEAN-Russia Roadmap: ASEAN and Russia adopted the Kazan Declaration 2026 and a 2026–2030 action plan to expand cooperation across security, trade, culture and energy. South Asia Water Tensions: Pakistan urged the UN Security Council to act over alleged India Indus Waters Treaty violations, warning of risks to water security and regional stability. Human Rights in Kuwait: A UN expert warned Kuwait’s nationality withdrawals are disproportionately harming women and children, affecting over 70,000 people. Climate Talks: UN climate chief Simon Stiell warned against backsliding at Bonn talks ahead of COP31, stressing countries must not reopen or cherry-pick commitments. Cuba Economic Shift: Cuba’s Communist Party approved sweeping emergency reforms to expand private enterprise and attract investment as the crisis deepens.