EU Accession Momentum: European ambassadors agreed to open Cluster 6 (“External Relations”) for Ukraine and Moldova, with the next step expected July 14—another push for Moldova’s EU path despite political turbulence. Prime Minister Shuffle: President Maia Sandu nominated businessman Vasile Tofan as prime minister candidate; he says the priorities are restoring public trust, restarting the economy, and strengthening institutions to speed EU integration. Reform Funding: Moldova is set to receive a new €191.5m tranche under the Reform and Growth Facility after completing over 90% of planned measures in the first half of 2026. Energy Security & Infrastructure: Vertical Corridor gas capacity bookings exceeded expectations, and technical talks continue as more countries join the expansion—aimed at diversifying supplies and boosting regional resilience. Civic & Social Protection: The EU launched a grant call to create community homes for children with severe disabilities, aiming to move at least 20 kids from residential care into tailored local services. Digital Safety for NGOs: ARTICLE 19 Europe is supporting Moldova’s civil society with practical digital security mini-grants, pairing local experts to address real risks. Biodiversity Note: A newly discovered Caribbean sea slug was named Aldisa vozinhai after Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha, linking conservation science with global attention.