Skopje’s Regional Pulse: North Macedonia’s PM Hristijan Mickoski is keeping distance from Serbia’s latest Orthodox Church remarks, signaling a “soft landing” toward Belgrade while staying firm against Sofia. EU Foreign Policy: Nine countries including North Macedonia have aligned with the EU’s extended sanctions against Iran, citing Tehran’s military support for Russia and regional armed-group activity. Health Watch: The EU health agency ECDC is urging extra protection against West Nile virus as new local transmission areas emerge across Europe. Environment & Energy: In Sar Mountain National Park, dismantling has begun on leftover infrastructure tied to scrapped small hydropower plans in the Leshnica Valley, aiming to restore the disturbed landscape. Border & Travel: Heavy traffic hit Kalotina (Serbia) and Kapitan Andreevo (Türkiye), while Danube ferry services faced temporary suspensions due to low water levels. Sports (Local angle): Hibernian’s week included a North Macedonia trip to face Shkendija, and the club is now set for a Conference League playoff first leg against Gent. Crime & Security: Greek police dismantled a drug network moving raw cannabis from Albania to Türkiye via Greece, with cooperation involving North Macedonia authorities.