Business & EU Readiness: Albania’s small firms still struggle to get bank loans, with OECD data pointing to weak credit information, collateral registration problems, and no private credit bureau—though access has inched up. The government says it will launch an EU-prep support programme with advisers for companies, plus a “Double Your Enterprise” scheme to boost production. NATO & Defence: Ahead of the Ankara summit, Türkiye’s MKE BORAN 105mm air-transportable howitzer deal marks Albania as the system’s second NATO/European customer, strengthening rapid artillery support on NATO’s southeastern flank. Protests & Justice: Tirana’s court ordered the release of 19 protesters detained during clashes tied to the Kushner-linked resort fight; some face house arrest or reporting duties. Prime Minister Edi Rama says the movement has been taken over by forces not representing the original public concerns. Wildfires Across Europe: Southern Europe is in crisis as wildfires in Portugal, Spain, France and Greece have burned nearly 20,000 hectares and forced mass evacuations, with temperatures expected to hit 40°C and even Tour de France stages disrupted. Connectivity & Daily Life: Albania reports 4G coverage reaching 97% of territory and 100% of population, while June saw a rebound in first-time vehicle registrations. Drugs Watch: A UN report lists Albania as a key heroin departure/transit route to Europe, based on seizure data from 2021–2024.