Drought and Heatwave Fallout: Europe’s record-breaking heat is driving wildfire alerts and straining power and transport, with nuclear and wind output dipping and electricity prices jumping as gas fills the gap. Water Crisis in Central Europe: The Danube is running dangerously low, forcing emergency steps to keep nuclear cooling running and threatening hydropower, shipping, and irrigation from Austria to Romania. Energy Security: EU gas storage has fallen to record lows for the time of year as LNG cargoes head to Asia, while Austria and Kazakhstan focus on maritime security to protect crude exports. Rail and Industry Moves: Czech freight reached Denmark for the first time on a single run, and Austria’s battery-train certification ramps up at Velim. Health Watch: The EMA is set to study a potential Lyme vaccine after trial results, while new research highlights melanoma risks in older Europeans. Politics and Society: A Polish ex-minister accused of evading arrest claims he’s in Transnistria, and a debate piece challenges Europe’s “clash” narrative about Islam. Culture and Travel: Eurostar plans a new London–Antwerp direct service, and a luxury rail journey spotlights Central Europe’s scenic routes. Tech and Business: Brno’s Gamebaze heads to Gamescom with incubated studios. Crime and Migration: A Philippine case flags illegal recruitment targeting jobs in Poland, Lithuania and the Czech Republic.