US-Georgia Reset: Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau said Washington wants to “warm up” ties with Georgia, pointing to shared values and a symbolic Independence Day visit in Washington. Diplomatic Friction: France recalled two intelligence officers from Tbilisi after an espionage case tied to Giorgi Udzilauri, with reports saying Tbilisi avoided declaring them persona non grata to prevent escalation. Courtroom Update: The defense for former Economy Deputy Minister Romeo Mikautadze is seeking full annulment and acquittal on nine charges, while prosecutors say a plea deal requires admitting guilt and compensating damages. Regional Connectivity: The modernized Baku–Tbilisi–Kars railway entered full operation, boosting annual freight capacity to 5 million tons and strengthening the Middle Corridor. Energy & Trade: Georgian wine exports fell 2.9% in 2025, mainly due to lower shipments to Russia, while business turnover rose 10.7% in 1Q26 and the National Bank of Georgia hosted an Armenian central bank delegation on payment system upgrades. Batumi & Local Life: A former Gonio firing range in Batumi was granted special regulation status, and a driver was arrested after a car plunged into the Mtkvari River in Tbilisi. Tourism Investment: Archi and NEXT unveiled the $300m Swissôtel Kobuleti Beach Resort project, signaling confidence in Adjara’s four-season tourism push.