Gas & Infrastructure: North Macedonia’s gasification push is getting a boost as the Greece interconnector nears completion, paving the way for a more diversified supply and phased expansion of the domestic gas network. EU & Borders: Summer traffic is building on North Macedonia–Greece border routes, with queues reported at Bogorodica–Evzonoi as the EU Entry/Exit System adds friction for non-EU travellers. Energy Security: Romania’s energy shift highlights how Europe still faces vulnerability despite moving away from Russian supplies, with low gas storage and tighter LNG competition raising price pressure. Telecom: Makedonski Telekom says it won six Ookla Speedtest Awards in H1 2026, including top marks for mobile and fixed performance. Environment: Lake Ohrid narrowly avoids being listed as endangered, but UNESCO warns of ongoing risks like illegal construction and wastewater problems, giving a five-year deadline for fixes. Politics & Rights: A local watchdog warns North Macedonia’s judiciary is “nearing collapse,” while the PM reiterates there will be no constitutional changes in the form currently demanded. Culture & Tourism: A folk festival, Horo Se Vie, kicked off in Bosilegrad with ensembles from North Macedonia, Serbia, Bulgaria and Montenegro.