Kosovo Economy: Kosovo imported far more than it exported in May: exports were €94.1m while imports hit €638.6m, with EU buyers taking nearly a third of exports and supplying almost half of imports. Banking Outlook: A European Investment Bank survey says credit demand in Kosovo and the wider CESEE region should stay strong, while banks signal only slight weakening in loan supply, especially for large companies. Kosovo Politics: Prime Minister Albin Kurti said Kosovo “did not need” the June 7 elections, adding that once results are certified, talks will start on forming new institutions, the Assembly, the government and the president. EU Path Blocked: Kosovo is not expected to advance in its EU membership bid during Ireland’s Council presidency starting 1 July, because five EU states still do not recognize Kosovo’s independence. Protests and Parties: A new analysis argues the Democratic Party has come to dominate Albania’s protests by numbers, but that shift may not help it politically. Regional Security: Kosovo-linked peacekeeping readiness remains in focus as Kosovo’s National Army participates in the “Peace Shield 2026” exercise, with equipment and personnel movements on national roads.