EU Accession Politics: Former foreign minister Bujar Osmani says North Macedonia’s EU path is stalled and that the negotiating framework with Bulgaria hinges on only two “indispensable” issues: constitutional amendments and the Action Plan on Minorities—arguing the final vote should wait for Sofia’s consent on the plan’s content. Bilateral Economy: Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski used a Türkiye–North Macedonia Business Forum in Istanbul to invite Turkish investors, stressing Skopje’s “gateway” location, digitized services, and reduced red tape. Trade Numbers: Türkiye’s trade minister Ömer Bolat said bilateral trade reached $886m by end-2025 and both sides aim to push it toward $2bn, with Turkish contractors delivering major projects and employing about 1,000 firms. Regional Security & Training: North Macedonia participated in the “Platinum Wolf 26” exercise, with visiting officials briefed on tasks and interoperability in peace-support operations. Disaster Preparedness: Skopje is recruiting former police, army and firefighting personnel to bolster wildfire response this summer, offering seasonal pay and field roles. Media & Rule of Law: A regional report warns of political pressure, disinformation and weak safeguards for independent journalism across the Western Balkans, citing North Macedonia among affected countries. Defense Cooperation: A large regional cyber exercise (CACE 2026) brought together North Macedonia and U.S. National Guard partners to strengthen cyber defense coordination.