Cross-Strait Security & Defense: Taiwan has begun flight tests of its first two U.S.-supplied MQ-9B SkyGuardian drones at Hualien, aiming to expand persistent maritime surveillance and improve tracking of Chinese naval and coast guard activity around the island. International Diplomacy Pressure: China again condemned Taiwan Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim’s unannounced Italy trip for a democracy forum, warning against “official” engagement and framing it as “gray-zone” political pressure. China’s One-China Push Abroad: Beijing urged Panama to honor the one-China principle after Panamanian lawmakers formed a Taiwan friendship group, warning that crossing the line will bring “serious consequences.” U.S.-China Tech & Markets: AI leaders’ calls to slow AI development triggered a global selloff in AI-linked stocks, while oil surged above $100 amid Middle East supply fears—adding to inflation pressure ahead of the Fed. Regional Military Politics: Japan’s Okinawa gubernatorial election result cleared the way for Tokyo’s military build-up plans, but analysts say local divisions over the U.S. base relocation remain. Taiwan Economy & Trade: Taiwan’s supply chains are being positioned as a key source for North American food trends, with Kaohsiung’s upcoming food show marketed as a direct bridge for U.S. buyers.