EU Kosovo Diplomacy: The EU Council appointed German diplomat Dirk Schübel as the new EU Special Representative for Kosovo, starting 1 September 2026 for two years, succeeding Aivo Orav, with a mandate focused on Kosovo’s European path, human rights, rule of law and minority protection. Kosovo-Serbia Dialogue: Serbian FM Marko Djuric met OSCE Secretary General Feridun Sinirlioglu in Belgrade, stressing Serbia’s commitment to the Belgrade–Pristina dialogue and implementation of past agreements, while highlighting OSCE work in Kosovo-Metohija. KFOR Exercise: KFOR RC-East rehearsed a downed-aircraft response near Camp Bondsteel, coordinating search and rescue, medical evacuation and recovery procedures across multinational teams. Kosovo in Gaza: Kosovo troops are set to join the International Stabilization Force for Gaza, with a logistics center in southern Israel receiving the new contingent; deployment timelines inside Gaza are still unclear. Visa News for Kosovars: Germany’s 2026 visa-free list for short stays includes Kosovo, allowing up to 90 days in any 180-day period for tourism, business meetings and family visits (no employment). Media Independence: Kosovo journalists and civil groups said they will not assess the RTK director-general selection process, citing political pressure and interference, including delays in salary payments.