EU Accession Push: European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen arrived in Tirana for talks with President Bajram Begaj and Prime Minister Edi Rama, as Brussels drafts a step-by-step approach for Albania and other candidates, including possible “roadmaps” and “gradual integration” into the single market. Protest & Security: Demonstrators gathered outside the prime minister’s office, with police cordons and clashes reported during the visit. Justice Reform: Albania proposed major changes to criminal procedure, aiming to limit pre-trial detention, tighten phone search rules with judge approval, require audio-video recording of key interviews, and expand protections for victims of domestic and sexual violence. Court Case in Tirana: The prosecution has sent to trial the administrator, chairperson and supervisory board members of FAF J.S.C. for “abuse of office” linked to procurement irregularities. Public Investment & Prisons: An IMF mission says Albania is keeping public investment at about 6.5% of GDP with improved project management, while new government plans target a high pre-trial detention rate, where nearly two in three prisoners are still awaiting final conviction. Health Alert: A second West Nile virus case was confirmed in Korçë, bringing the 2026 total to two. Diplomacy: New US Ambassador Eric Wendt began meetings in Tirana after presenting credentials to President Begaj. Sports: Albania beat San Marino 3-0 in the Nations League, moving to the top of their group.