EU Accession & Reforms: Albania’s PM Edi Rama says EU promises to Ukraine are “a lie” under the standard path, arguing Brussels should offer earlier integration into EU working formats while also reforming decision-making to avoid veto paralysis. Tourism & Housing Pressure: Tirana rents stay high after summer, with apartments near the centre reportedly €700–€1,500 a month and many homes shifting to short-term rentals. Energy Transition: Albania’s next solar auction is expected by early 2027 and, for the first time, will include battery storage to smooth the gap between midday production and evening demand. Justice & Rights Debate: A new Criminal Procedure Code is being discussed as a step toward equal rights, but critics warn safeguards may not fully help defendants who can’t afford strong defence. Sports (Albania in focus): Finland beat Albania 2-1 in the Nations League after Rey Manaj’s early goal; Albania’s goalkeeper was sent off and Leo Walta scored twice to complete the comeback. Public Safety: A €50,000 bomb threat at an eastern gas station turned out to be a hoax; a 21-year-old was arrested for extortion threats. Regulation Watch: Albania introduced tighter rules for cannabis oversight, including continuous monitoring and risk-based inspections across the full production chain.