Bastille Day, Defence & Ukraine: Macron used July 14 to underline Europe’s “strategic awakening,” with a major Champs-Élysées parade featuring European troops and an air show of 98 aircraft, while leaders gathered in Paris to push Ukraine’s air-defence build-up and a post-ceasefire multinational force. Ukraine Air Shield: Zelenskyy said Russia hit cities with ballistic missiles and drones, urging adoption of the 21st EU sanctions package and faster anti-ballistic cooperation; allies pledged more air defence and exercises. FREYJA Anti-Ballistic Program: Ukraine and partners launched FREYJA, aiming for an affordable, mass-produced system within 12 months, with France among the key participants. Heatwave & Wildfires: A major Fontainebleau forest fire near Paris forced evacuations and disrupted rail and highways; officials said suspected arson is under investigation. Public Safety Toll: France reported 139 drowning deaths since June 19, warning that heat is driving more people into unsupervised swimming areas. World Cup Politics: The France–Spain semi-final is overshadowed by a racism row after former Spain PM Rajoy’s “no French players” remark; Lamine Yamal urged football to “integrate” and move past the controversy. Regional Diplomacy: France marked National Day with defence and partnership messages, including Cyprus–France ties and other Gulf outreach. Gulf Flashpoint: Trump reimposed a blockade on Iranian ports and proposed a 20% Strait of Hormuz cargo fee as strikes continue.