Heatwave toll in Western Europe: Belgium reported 39% more deaths than expected during June 18–29, with 1,222 excess deaths, while France’s public health agency logged 2,025 additional deaths for late-June heat. Weather outlook: The WMO warns El Niño is strengthening fast, raising the odds of heatwaves, drought and heavy rain worldwide. Security & NATO: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Ukraine will become a full NATO member, a move that could sharpen tensions with Russia. Ukraine-Central Europe ties: A diplomat says public rhetoric doesn’t match reality: weapons deliveries and cooperation continue, with Russia still driving security policy. Russian drone campaign: IISS says Russia used shadow-fleet tankers to launch spy drones over Western Europe for nearly 18 months, with NATO failing to coordinate an effective response. Aviation & travel: Wizz Air adds major Central/Eastern Europe growth, including new Bratislava–Baku flights and a 19-route expansion targeting winter sun. Business & tech: Cognizant and Domyn partner to deliver sovereign AI in regulated sectors across Europe, Middle East and Africa. Transport & ports: DP World’s Tartous revamp begins with new mobile harbour cranes, boosting capacity by about 40%. Climate adaptation at home: Southern Water brings a hosepipe ban for 1 million people in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight from July 10.