EU Accession Momentum: The EU has given the political green light for Moldova and Ukraine to start official membership talks, with Moldova praised as a top reform performer—while officials warn that Russian interference and disinformation remain a daily challenge. Environment Chapter Push: EU Environment Commissioner Jessika Roswall visited Chișinău, backing Moldova’s readiness to open the Environment cluster (Cluster IV) and stressing that real progress will hinge on funding and stronger administrative capacity for water, waste, air quality and climate actions. Energy Efficiency & Heat Resilience: Moldova is scaling up efficiency as a “first fuel,” with EcoVoucher support helping households replace old appliances (336 families received vouchers) and World Bank-backed work moving toward modernizing Chișinău’s heating system via a new high-efficiency cogeneration plant. Water & Waste Infrastructure: The EU also highlighted practical steps like wastewater and sewerage upgrades in Căpriana, tying environmental upgrades to EU standards. Weather Watch: Severe heat and storms are still in play across the region, with Moldova included in warnings through July 3. Local Development: An industrial park is set to open in Ocnița, and new nursery and water-supply projects were added to the 2025–2027 programming document.