Wildfire Fallout in Germany: Chancellor Friedrich Merz returns from holiday to visit the Hürtgen forest after Germany’s biggest western-state blaze, thanking emergency crews amid opposition criticism. Nord Stream Court Case: A Ukrainian suspect tied to the 2022 Nord Stream sabotage is remanded in Croatia as extradition proceedings to Germany begin; prosecutors also cite Denmark’s refusal to help with parts of the investigation. Tourism & Climate Pressure: Record-low Rhine water levels are driving up freight costs and disrupting German supply chains, underlining how drought is hitting more than just holidays. Storms Hit the Med: Heavy rain and flash floods strike Italy and Spain weeks after extreme heat and wildfires, with further severe weather warnings. Bauhaus Under Fire: Germany’s culture minister and major institutions defend the Bauhaus against AfD “populist attacks,” arguing the modernist legacy is central to democracy and remembrance. Schengen/Border Rules: Italy reintroduces internal border controls with Spain after Ceuta crossings, while NGOs push the EU to act on complaints about Italy’s civilian search-and-rescue restrictions. Local Travel Safety: A fatal crash involving a bicyclist is investigated near Germantown Road in the US, highlighting ongoing road-risk concerns for travellers.