Carbon Pricing Fight: Ten EU countries including Bulgaria, Italy, Poland and Cyprus urged the European Commission to “reconsider” the planned carbon price on transport and heating fuels, arguing ETS2 should be folded into a broader ETS reform and reassessed to avoid new climate taxes amid economic and geopolitical strain. Waste Compliance Pressure: The European Commission opened formal steps against 14 member states over missed waste recycling targets and failures to transpose key EU waste and packaging rules, with Bulgaria named among those falling short. Water Crisis at Srebarna: A state of emergency was declared for Bulgaria’s Srebarna Nature Reserve after critically low lake levels, with authorities coordinating urgent measures and warning that prolonged drought and heat could further stress the ecosystem. ETS2 Reform Timing: The Commission is set to present the ETS revision on Friday, setting up a near-term policy showdown over how fast emissions costs should tighten. Regional Energy Cooperation: Greece highlighted progress on cross-border energy projects, positioning the country as a stronger Southeast Europe energy hub alongside partners including Bulgaria. Tourism Push: Bulgaria’s tourism ministry said it will work with Poland to boost year-round travel, including a business forum and a planned roadshow in Poland. Wildlife & Climate Link: The Srebarna emergency underscores how low water and heat can quickly translate into risks for biodiversity and breeding conditions.