Black Sea Security: President Iliana Iotova says the Black Sea has become a key security zone and calls for it to be “a sea of people and peace,” speaking at the Bulgarian Navy’s 147th anniversary in Varna. Drone Incident & Energy Risk: Bulgaria and Ukraine trade blame after a Ukrainian-type Maya decoy drone exploded near the Trans-Balkan gas pipeline close to Kardam; Bulgaria’s chief of defence says there was no deliberate action against Bulgaria, but authorities will boost surveillance. Tourism Under Heat Pressure: Wildfires and extreme heat keep disrupting travel across Europe, with reports of evacuations and major firefighting efforts, including in Bulgaria and around popular holiday areas. Danube Drought Hits Travel: Record-low Danube water levels are affecting shipping and cruise plans and even exposing WWII relics, underlining how the drought is reshaping river tourism and logistics. Euro Transition Update: Bulgaria ends mandatory dual price display in levs and euros from Aug 8, 2026, moving fully to euro-only pricing unless businesses choose to keep dual reference. Black Sea Coast Controls: Bulgaria’s National Revenue Agency reports 1,200+ inspections in the Burgas region since late June, finding nearly 500 violations and stepping up monitoring around festivals. Culture & Travel Experiences: Stefan Valdobrev’s “Acoustics of Bulgaria” continues with new recordings on St Anastasia Island, adding a fresh cultural draw for visitors to Burgas.