D-Day & Migration Rhetoric: US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth used the 82nd anniversary of the Normandy landings to warn Europe about an “invasion” of “dangerous ideologies” arriving by sea, naming Spain, Italy, Greece and Bulgaria as “boats and men” come ashore—sparking backlash in France and echoing Trump-era migration talking points. Cultural Diplomacy: Bulgaria, Romania and Serbia are taking part in the cross-border folklore festival “The Rivers Danube and Timok Connect Us” in Kapitanovtsi, with performances and a children’s opening celebration aimed at preserving folk traditions. Books & Language Exchange: Bulgarian participation at Bucharest’s Bookfest includes collecting Romanian books at the Bulgarian stand for donation to Sofia University Library, supporting Romanian studies and future translators. Science & Exploration: The 34th Bulgarian Antarctic Expedition held a reporting camp in Aheloy, highlighting a large, successful mission with scientists and sailors and new reach to the Antarctic mainland. Leadership & Media: At the 9th International Summer Leadership Academy, Culture and Media Committee chair Anton Kutev urged leaders to “read the river” of social change and communicate beyond data-driven algorithms. Memory & Identity: President Iliana Iotova marked the Thracian Child Day at Ilieva Niva, calling for justice for Thracian Bulgarians and preserving the memory of the 1913 massacre. Fashion Spotlight: Costume designer Vera Chow explained how she decoded Hong Kong “old money” style for the series “The Season,” drawing on heirloom jewelry and bespoke tailoring.