EU Wildfire Aid: The EU has stepped up support for Belgium and Spain after both activated the Civil Protection Mechanism, sending rescEU planes and helicopters plus satellite mapping to help local crews tackle major blazes. Albania Wildfire Response: At home, Albania reported 12 fires by early afternoon, with seven still active, deploying hundreds of personnel, vehicles, and aircraft, including Armed Forces support around key areas like Mount Dajti and Dibër. Police Crackdown on Environmental Crime: Interior Minister Besfort Lamallari announced a new specialized police unit to investigate environmental crimes, stressing that investigations must continue after fires are out. Firefighting Leadership Change: Lamallari also named Ervis Gjoshi as acting head of the Fire Protection and Rescue Directorate, with prevention and a national fire-prevention program among priorities. Tourism Update: Foreign stays in Albania’s hotels and accommodation rose 20.6% in June year-on-year, with coastal areas and the southern Riviera leading growth. Tax Enforcement Online: Albania’s tax authority is shifting enforcement toward online trade and services, targeting VAT and underreporting to bring more activity into the formal economy. Sports Betting Reopening: Albania is preparing to license up to 10 online sports betting operators after years of a ban. Corruption Media Row: A Wall Street Journal report alleges undisclosed Soros-linked ties in coverage of an Albanian corruption case tied to Jared Kushner’s resort project.