EU Sanctions Deal: The EU has approved its 21st Russia sanctions package after member states dropped veto threats in exchange for concessions, including removing Patriarch Kirill from the list and watering down parts of the original plan. Consular & Tourism Diplomacy: Nepal elected Suraj Vaidya as Dean of the Honorary Consular Corps, with priorities including tourism promotion and stronger economic ties. Balkan Road Trips: Private Guide Bulgaria launched custom multi-country tours adding Moldova (and options extending into Romania and Serbia), aiming to open up lesser-visited routes. Varna Summer Attraction: Varna’s Dolphinarium is running four daily dolphin shows this summer, with performances at 10:30, 12:00, 15:30 and 17:00. Border Crossing Progress: Bulgaria–North Macedonia’s Klepalo border checkpoint is moving forward, with environmental steps done and construction expected to finish by 2029, backed by €11m. Travel Safety & Disruption: A serious crash closed the E-79 near Cherniche, with traffic later reopened under control. Travel Deals Watch: Sunny Beach is highlighted in a UK family-holiday cost comparison, while the Algarve tops “best value” for British families. Culture & Travel: An Italian conman behind a fake Roman amphitheatre has been jailed after charging tourists €40 for the hoax.