Energy & Industry: Central Europe’s drought is hitting hard: record-low Danube levels are disrupting inland shipping and forcing nuclear cooling cutbacks, with Hungary warning Paks could shut within days. EU Consumer & Repair: From 31 July, EU right-to-repair rules start applying, pushing consumers toward repair over replacement—though rollout speed will vary by country. AI & Media Integrity: EU rules will require labels for AI-made, authentic-looking content, aiming to curb election-misleading deepfakes. Slovakia-China Industrial Push: Slovakia’s economic ties with China are shifting from diplomacy to building industries together, spotlighting battery manufacturing momentum. Energy Storage: Slovakia’s battery and BESS sector keeps moving, with new capacity and investment signals across Central & Eastern Europe. Manufacturing & Jobs: Jaguar Land Rover plans further job cuts after its cyber-attack recovery and cost-saving drive—factories including Slovakia are in the wider production picture. Construction & Heritage: Workers building a Slovak industrial park reportedly uncovered a Roman military camp, adding a new chapter to the region’s history. Environment & Permits: Slovakia’s opposition is appealing an Environment Ministry approval for a Slovnaft waste-to-energy incinerator, arguing the capital doesn’t need another plant. Automotive Launch: Audi unveiled its biggest SUV yet, the Q9/SQ9, signaling continued premium SUV competition. Wildfire Pressure: Europe’s wildfire risk is escalating, with emergency services stretched and climate-driven heatwaves worsening conditions.