Serbia–North Macedonia Cooperation: Serbian PM Djuro Macut met North Macedonia’s Hristijan Mickoski in Ohrid, focusing on transport and border crossings, plus energy connectivity, agriculture and tourism, with rail upgrades on the Serbia–Greece line highlighted as a major change for faster regional links. North Macedonia Politics & Governance: A new “Law on Fair and Adequate Representation” is set to replace the Balancer system, but opposition parties warn the lack of fixed quotas and sanctions could leave implementation “voluntary,” while universities say they still face unequal treatment under the rankings system. Judiciary Watch: The trial involving Iva Mihaylova in Kočani continues, with a travel ban still in force despite witness testimony that does not support the prosecution’s oncoming-lane claim. International Security & Influence: Civic groups say Russian influence in North Macedonia is growing through localized propaganda narratives, and that Russian pressure also affects the Macedonian Orthodox Church’s stance on Ukraine. EU/Regional Infrastructure: Bulgaria and North Macedonia launched the joint committee for a cross-border railway tunnel under Corridor 8, setting rules and a preliminary timetable and discussing financing options. Global Politics: Ukraine’s Zelenskyy accepted credentials from North Macedonia’s ambassador and others, briefing on Russia’s missile strikes and stressing air-defense support.