Source: Asia Development Bank
With Cambodia’s rapid urban growth, solid waste has become a major hazard, polluting Lake Tonle Sap. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is financing sanitary landfills and a digital platform to improve solid waste management in five towns in the Tonle Sap Basin.
Source: Greenpeace Statement –
Washington, D.C. (June 13, 2025) — In response to the Department of the Interior’s announcement yesterday of the publication of a Request for Information and Interest to explore the potential for seabed mineral leasing offshore American Samoa, Arlo Hemphill, Greenpeace USA’s Deep Sea Mining Campaign Lead, said: “Greenpeace USA is deeply disappointed that the Department of Interior is considering seabed mineral leasing near American Samoa — a U.S.territory that has placed a moratorium on the industry in its waters. This move disregards the sovereignty and voices of Pacific communities and opens the door to an industry that threatens their environment, culture, and livelihoods.
“The Pacific is not a sacrifice zone. Its people should not be forced to host a destructive industry they’ve clearly rejected. We urge the American public to stand in solidarity with those communities and send a resounding message during the public comment period: the deep sea is not for sale.”
This announcement follows President Trump’s executive order advancing deep sea mining in both U.S. and international waters — a move widely condemned by environmental organizations, Pacific Indigenous leaders, and other nations, including France, China, and the European Commission. Deep sea mining company, Impossible Metals, submitted a request to commence a leasing process for the exploration and potential mining of critical minerals in the deep sea off the coast of American Samoa in April.
Deep sea mining poses irreversible threats to biodiversity, imperils fragile ecosystems, and could have unforeseen impacts on the ocean’s carbon cycle, potentially impacting the climate crisis.
Despite U.S. backpedaling, momentum for ocean protection continues to grow. As of the 2025 UN Ocean Conference, which concluded today in Nice, 37 countries have now publicly supported a moratorium on deep sea mining. There has also been significant progress toward ratifying the Global Ocean Treaty, a key agreement towards the goal of protecting at least 30% of the world’s oceans by 2030 — a critical threshold scientists say is needed to restore marine health and safeguard biodiversity.
To meet this target, protection must extend across both national and international waters. Countries must not only ratify the Global Ocean Treaty, but also take bold domestic action to ban unsustainable extractive industries, such as deep sea mining, and ensure that local and Indigenous communities are at the center of marine conservation planning and decision-making processes.
Contact: Tanya Brooks, Senior Communications Specialist at Greenpeace USA, [email protected]
Greenpeace USA is part of a global network of independent campaigning organizations that use peaceful protest and creative communication to expose global environmental problems and promote solutions that are essential to a green and peaceful future. Greenpeace USA is committed to transforming the country’s unjust social, environmental, and economic systems from the ground up to address the climate crisis, advance racial justice, and build an economy that puts people first. Learn more at www.greenpeace.org/usa.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
The British Ambassador to Honduras, Juliana Correa, presented her Credentials to the President of the Republic of Honduras, Xiomara Castro, during a ceremony held at the Presidential Residence in Tegucigalpa.
Ambassador Correa was received by President Castro and the Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Javier Bu Soto. During the meeting, the Ambassador reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to strengthening the longstanding political and economic partnership between the UK and Honduras.
In her remarks, Ambassador Correa welcomed the deepening of bilateral trade through the UK-Central America Association Agreement and highlighted the UK’s ongoing support for biodiversity conservation and sustainable community development in ecologically rich regions such as La Moskitia.
She also underscored the shared values that underpin the UK-Honduras relationship, including the promotion of democratic governance, the protection of human rights, media freedom, and inclusive development. Ambassador Correa expressed her enthusiasm for further enhancing cooperation in these areas.
Ambassador Juliana Correa was appointed His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Republic of Guatemala and non-resident Ambassador to the Republic of Honduras in April 2024. She took up her post in the region in October 2024.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed
PROVIDENCE, RI – Today, U.S. Senator Jack Reed, a West Point graduate and former U.S. Army paratrooper who served in the 82nd Airborne, issued the following statement:
“The U.S. Army and our military personnel are worthy of celebration and recognition each and every day. They have our unwavering gratitude and support.
“As a proud Army veteran, I, like all Americans, understand that the strength of our military is its people – generations of brave men and women who defend our nation and stand a post for freedom. They are not props. They serve the American people and deserve principled policy, leadership, and action that demonstrates our support for them and matches their enduring sacrifice.
“While this parade is a reminder that a president gets to give the military its marching orders, it’s really a demonstration of how this president prioritizes his own image above the needs of the American people, particularly those in uniform, whom he has frequently ridiculed.
“Given the chaotic state of affairs – with Marines deployed in Los Angeles, President Trump threatening to “have troops everywhere” within the United States, and unfolding attacks in the Middle East — locking down the nation’s capital to parade tanks and military hardware through the streets is not an appropriate way to honor servicemembers. That sounds like something an isolated, insecure despot would do for his own aggrandizement.
“Our military has important missions to accomplish. The tens of millions of dollars expended for this event could be better allocated to improve the lives and readiness of our servicemembers and their families.
“I think we should be celebrating the Army’s 250th anniversary, but doing it in the dignified way that the Army itself had originally planned, which was an appropriate, right-sized, static celebration on the Mall and a fitting salute to the generations of brave Americans who have served and continue to serve our nation with great courage and distinction.”
Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement
WASHINGTON – A Department of Homeland Security child exploitation prevention program designed to empower children to understand the threats and report suspected online exploitation, led directly to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement investigation, arrest and federal conviction of a former teacher and coach preying on children, authorities announced May 23.
Anthony James Deason, 29, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 84 months in federal prison followed by eight years of supervised release for one count of attempted receipt of certain material involving the sexual exploitation of a minor.
The case began when a brave student—after attending a Know2Protect Project iGuardian presentation at school—felt empowered to approach the ICE Homeland Security Investigations special agents leading the presentation and report disturbing online behavior by a trusted adult. That decision launched an ICE HSI, local police department, criminal investigation into Deason, who was then a teacher and coach with Tahlequah Public Schools.
“This case is a clear example of how education and outreach can change—and even save—lives,” said Mike Prado, the Deputy Assistant Director of the DHS Cyber Crimes Center where the Know2Protect campaign is housed. “Because of the Know2Protect campaign, a young student recognized abusive behavior, had the courage to speak up, and helped stop a predator in his tracks. This child’s bravery, and the swift response from law enforcement, protected others and ensured justice.”
According to investigators, between Oct. 26 and 30, 2023, Deason used social media to contact two students he knew to be minors, attempting to solicit sexually explicit images in exchange for money and gift cards. He also sent an unsolicited explicit image of himself to one of the victims. Fortunately, both minors refused his advances—and thanks to the student’s courage and awareness gained from the Know2Protect campaign, Deason’s actions were brought to light.
The Tahlequah Public School where this crime occurred took a proactive approach to student safety by incorporating Know2Protect Project iGuardian presentations as part of its required school curriculum. By making online safety education a priority, the school created an environment where students were informed, vigilant and empowered to speak up.
“Through its collaboration with DHS and the Know2Protect Campaign, Tahlequah Public Schools ensured students had the tools to recognize online danger and the confidence to speak up,” said Know2Protect Campaign Director Kate Kennedy. “That cooperation led directly to the exposure of a predator and should encourage other schools to also include this important training.”
Deason pleaded guilty to the charge on Dec. 11, 2024. The crime occurred in Cherokee County, within the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The investigation was conducted by ICE Homeland Security Investigations Oklahoma office and the Tahlequah Police Department.
“Because of the strong collaboration between ICE HSI, Tahlequah Public Schools, Tahlequah PD and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, we were able to stop this predator before he attempted to exploit others,” said Special Agent in Charge Travis Pickard ICE HSI Dallas. “Campaigns like Know2Protect help students recognize warning signs and know how to safely reach out for help and is making a real difference in protecting children.”
Know2Protect is a national public awareness campaign from the Department of Homeland Security. Know2Protect educates and empowers children, teens, parents, trusted adults and policymakers to prevent, combat and report online child sexual exploitation and abuse. For more information about online child exploitation, how DHS is combatting and how you can help prevent these crimes, watch Know2Protect public service announcements via YouTube at Know2Protect Campaign PSA Playlist and Know2Protect Digital Safety Series Playlist . Additional resources are available at know2protect.gov and by following the campaign @Know2Protect on Instagram, Facebook and X.
The K2P and Project iGuardian team is available to visit and inform communities on how to protect children and teens from online predators. Through delivery of in-person presentations provided by ICE HSI special agents and other subject matter experts, these audience-specific sessions are provided at no cost.
Join the fight against online child sexual exploitation and abuse by learning more—schedule a Project iGuardian presentation for your school, youth group, corporation, law enforcement agency or other community event: Training | Homeland Security.
Email iguardian.hq@hsi.dhs.gov to request an iGuardian presentation.
Early intervention is critical. If you suspect a child may be a victim of online child sexual exploitation and abuse, call the Know2Protect Tipline at 1-833-591-KNOW (5669) or visit the NCMEC CyberTipline™.
If you believe a child has been abducted or is in immediate danger, contact local law enforcement or dial 911.
To schedule an interview contact: Public Affairs Officer Tanya Roman @ tanya.roman@hsi.dhs.gov
Source: New South Wales – News
Today marks the 20th anniversary of the disappearance of Steven Williams, a former president of the Gypsy Jokers.
Steven Williams was last seen at the Gepps Cross Hotel on the afternoon of 14 June, 2005. His white Ford Falcon was later found abandoned in the hotel car park.
It is suspected Steven Williams was murdered. His body has never been found, and his disappearance was declared a Major Crime.
In late 2005, a call was made to Crime Stoppers which led police to searching a trucking company at Gillman.
It is believed that Mr Williams, a debt collector, was dropped at Gillman by an associate – most likely to collect money from someone who worked there.
It is likely his body was removed from the business in the rear of a white utility – covered by a tarpaulin – seen parked in a street adjacent to the property later the same day.
Despite extensive searches over the years, no trace of him has ever been found.
Steven Williams was 38 when he went missing, leaving behind a young daughter.
Major Crime detectives believe this case is solvable; and that there are people who know exactly what happened to Steven Williams.
Detective Sergeant Paul Ward, Major Crime Investigation Branch, said, “Despite the code of silence in outlaw motorcycle gangs, we have received information over the past 20 years regarding the circumstances of Steve’s disappearance, as well as potential burial sites.
“Over the last 20 years, friendships and loyalties may have changed. People are 20 years older, they may now have children of their own. I ask them to put themselves in Blayze Williams’ position, growing up not knowing what happened to her father.
“For the sake of the Steven Williams’ family, if you have information, please contact Crime Stoppers and help find his remains and bring him home to his family.”
A $200,000 reward is still on offer for information that leads to a conviction, or the recovery of Steven Williams’ remains.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au – you can remain anonymous.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia
The Task Force for Recognizing and Averting Payments Scams (TRAPS) Act, would create a task force to combat the growing issue of payment scams
A champion of consumer protections, Senator Reverend Warnock has a long history of combating payment scams, including fighting to protect students and seniors
Senators Reverend Warnock: “Scams and financial schemes continue to target Georgians’ bank accounts, especially our seniors who work their entire lives to build savings”
Washington, D.C. – This week, U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Mike Crapo (R-ID) Mark Warner (D-VA), and Jerry Moran (R-KS) introduced the bipartisan Task Force for Recognizing and Averting Payments Scams (TRAPS) Act. The legislation would create a task force to combat the growing issue of payment scams. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reported that losses to fraud have soared 25 percent over the last year to $12.5 billion nationwide.
“Scams and financial schemes continue to target Georgians’ bank accounts, especially our seniors who work their entire lives to build savings,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “The Task Force for Recognizing and Averting Payments Scams (TRAPS) Act better equips law enforcement and regulators to fight back and provide much-needed protection for fraud victims, and helps prevent scams before they happen.”
Payment scams occur when a scammer induces a victim, usually under false pretenses to voluntarily send them money. The Senators’ legislation would bring together industry, law enforcement, financial regulators and telecommunication regulators to decide best practices for identifying and preventing future scams.
Specifically, the TRAPS Act would:
1. Create a task force, chaired by the U.S. Department of the Treasury and composed of the prudential regulators, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, the Federal Communications Commission, Federal Trade Commission, U.S. Department of Justice and representatives from industry.
2. Direct the task force to examine the payments landscape and compile a report to recommend legislative and regulatory changes, including best practices to coordinate state, local and federal efforts.
3. Require the task force to update the report annually for three years.
The TRAPS Act is supported by AARP, Early Warning Services, Electronic Transactions Association, GoWest Credit Union Association, American Bankers Association, Consumer Bankers Association, National Bankers Association, the Defense Credit Union Council and America’s Credit Unions.
“Criminals continue to target vulnerable Americans through creative ways to trick them out of their hard-earned money,” said Senator Crapo. “We can–and should–better equip law enforcement and regulators with the tools to go after scammers and prevent scams before they happen.”
“The evolving sophistication of financial scams emphasizes the urgent need for unified and proactive defense,” said Senator Warner. “The TRAPS Act will bridge the gap between law enforcement, regulators and the financial industry in order to better protect Americans’ financial welfare and hold those who prey on hard-working individuals accountable.”
“Combatting the global rise in fraud starts with making certain federal regulators and law enforcement agencies are coordinating effectively to address these threats,” said Senator Moran. “Establishing a task force to promote inter-agency cooperation on preventing payment scams and other fraud is yet another step in protecting the financial security of Kansans.”
Senator Warnock has long been a champion of consumer protections and ensuring our nation’s seniors aren’t taken advantage of financially. During a Senate Again Committee hearing, Senator Warnock highlighted the need for government agencies to increase efforts to better protect seniors from Artificial Intelligence (AI) scams. Senator Warnock also introduced a consumer protection bill aiming to restore the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) longstanding authority to return money to consumers victimized by illegal scams, fraud, and other deceptive practices.
The bill text for the TRAPS Act is HERE.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia
Above: Senator Warnock sporting his seersucker suit on the steps of the U.S. Capitol
Official U.S. Senate photo by Ryan Donnell
Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) commemorated the 12th annual National Seersucker Day. Last year, Senator Cassidy announced Senator Warnock as his new co-chair to replace the late Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), who served as co-chair for the bipartisan tradition from 2015 until her death in 2023. Celebrating the history and heritage of seersucker suits in the United States, for years the annual observance has brought senators from both sides of the aisle together in fellowship and serves as a reminder of the virtues of bipartisanship for lawmakers in Washington. The Senators also led a resolution recognizing National Seersucker Day.
“Celebrating more than just a fashion statement, National Seersucker Day is a wonderful, bipartisan tradition with Southern roots that helps unite Americans through our shared love of comfortable summer clothing,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “In hard times, people need reminders of our common humanity. That we can show up with joy and still do serious work. And as a Senator for all Georgians, it does not hurt when that reminder is rooted in a uniquely Southern tradition.”
“Today, we celebrate National Seersucker Day and the light-hearted tradition of bringing a little Louisiana charm to Capitol Hill,” said Dr. Cassidy. “There’s no better way to beat the heat than with a seersucker suit. It’s a distinctly New Orleans invention, and I’m proud to share it with my colleagues every year.”
Seersucker suits were first popularized in the United States by a New Orleans businessman in the early 1900s. The material, originally from India, is a lighter, more breathable fabric that provides additional air flow in warmer weather compared to classic wool suits—historically making them ideal for wearing during the Washington D.C.’s muggy summer months. Seersucker is typically made of cotton, which is one of Georgia’s most important agricultural crops, with roughly 3,500 family farms producing cotton throughout the state.
The National Seersucker Day Resolution can be found HERE.
Read more about Senator Warnock’s leadership on National Seersucker Day in GQ:
It’s been a hectic time in American politics, to say the least, but even the most devoted CSPAN junkies might have missed Resolution 254 when it hit the Senate floor at the end of May. The resolution was interesting, for one thing, because at a time when lawmakers can’t seem to agree on whether grass is green or water is wet, its co-sponsors were Senator Bill Cassidy, a Republican from Louisiana, and Senator Raphael Warnock, a Georgia Democrat. More notable, though, is the resolution’s focus: seersucker suits.
Yesterday in the Capitol, a dozens-strong group of senators and their staffers suited up in the puckered fabric to continue the tradition. With all of the weighty issues facing the nation’s legislators, it might seem odd to devote time and energy to cosplaying as Gregory Peck in To Kill a Mockingbird, but Seersucker Day is more than just an excuse to dress up like a 1930s Southern lawyer. “Seersucker Day here in the Capitol is a time to bring a little levity to a place that takes itself very seriously, sometimes perhaps too seriously,” explains Warnock over a Zoom call from his DC office. “In a moment when the country and our politics are so divided, it’s a show of bipartisan connection. And I like the fact that it’s rooted in a style and a tradition that’s based in the South, where I was born and raised, and where I now serve.”
“I’m from Savannah, Georgia, and if it’s July or August, you don’t just feel the heat; you wear it,” says Warnock. “[Seersucker] comes from that. It’s a nice, cool cotton, and it represents the style and charm of the South. For me, seersucker goes right along with big front porches and iced tea.”
Warnock, who has served as the pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta since 2005, is clearly someone who understands the power of good tailoring, but he’s hesitant to talk about his Seersucker Thursday fit in much detail (with the exception of his socks, which are printed with pictures of his kids). He prefers instead to muse on the deeper significance of style, and the many ways in which Black Americans have redefined over the last century. “I come from the Civil Rights activist tradition, and so when I think of style, I don’t just think of clothes,” Warnock says. “I think about jazz and the blues, the syncopated rhythms of marginalized people, disrupting the normal flow of things and adding some different harmonies and nuance to the American story.”
In today’s climate, when bipartisan goodwill and well-dressed politicians are both in critically short supply, it’s more valuable than ever. “It’s a nod to the connections that we have with one another across partisan lines, ideological lines, racial lines,” says Warnock. “That alone is a reason to keep this going.”
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins
Published: June 13, 2025
Click HERE and HERE for individual photos.
Orono, ME – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins delivered remarks at the Northern Light Health Maine Rural Dementia Training Project at the University of Maine. More than 100 medical professionals from across the state were in attendance for the all-day program, which trains rural medical professionals, caregivers, and social workers to care for patients with dementia in outpatient and hospital-based settings. Maine, being one of the oldest and most rural states in the nation, faces a high prevalence of age-associated cognitive disorders and limited access to dementia specialists.
“Far too many of us know the pain of having a loved one stricken by dementia, including Alzheimer’s. I’ve seen it in my own family, and I understand how devastating these diseases can be,” said Senator Collins during her remarks. “In our large rural state, it can be difficult to secure an accurate, early diagnosis and a plan for care. That’s why I worked hard to secure funding for this important training program to help ensure families across Maine can access the care they need.”
Last year, through her role on the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins secured more than $1.3 million in Congressionally Directed Spending for Northern Light Acadia Hospital to create Rural Dementia Training Project.
This week, Senator Collins delivered remarks at the 2025 Alzheimer’s Impact Movement (AIM) Advocacy Forum in Washington. In her remarks, Senator Collins highlighted her successful legislative efforts to advance Alzheimer’s research, prevention, and treatment. In the 118th Congress, there were 1,868 standalone health care bills introduced in both the U.S. Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives. Of those bills, only 15 passed both chambers and were signed into law. U.S. Senator Susan Collins led or co-led 5 of those 15 bills to passage with strong bipartisan support, and 3 of those 5 bills dealt directly with brain health. Those bills were the National Alzheimer’s Project Act (NAPA), the Building Our Largest Dementia (BOLD) Infrastructure for Alzheimer’s Act, and the Alzheimer’s Accountability and Investment Act.
Source: US FBI
Ahead of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15, the FBI is reminding elderly Americans and their loved ones about elder fraud. This type of fraud takes many forms as criminals seek to take advantage of this vulnerable and growing population. The FBI is committed to educating the public about these scams and investigating financial fraud schemes against seniors. Not only are there devastating financial consequences, but these victims and their loved ones can suffer great emotional and mental effects because of these scams.
The FBI investigates financial scams targeting seniors, including investment scams, technical/customer support schemes, money mule and romance scams, and others. According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) data, in 2024 there was a total of $4.885 billion in losses from 147,127 complaints. This is a 46% increase in complaints from 2023, as well as a 43% increase in losses. In Hawaii, total losses were $18,851,052 in 2024, with investment scam losses totaling over half of that number at $9,809,411. The FBI continues to work with our local and federal partners to tackle elder fraud and stop those who attempt to harm the elderly.
“While financial scams are nothing new, the high-tech methods scammers use are constantly evolving with technology. Investment scams are particularly malicious as they prey on victims’ emotions and drain them of their life savings,” said FBI Honolulu Special Agent in Charge David Porter. “The FBI is committed to investigating, disrupting, and bringing these criminals to justice. We encourage our community to use caution when sending money to others, and to contact the FBI if you think you could be the victim of a scam.”
Seniors are frequently targeted by criminal actors, as they are often perceived to be more polite and trusting. These actors may also assume that seniors are more financially stable, own real estate, spend a great deal of time alone, and are less likely to report fraud if they feel ashamed or are unfamiliar with reporting channels such as IC3.gov.
Fraud can happen to anyone, and small steps can be taken to protect yourself and your information:
If you believe you are a victim of fraud, or know a senior who may be—regardless of financial loss—immediately report the incident to your local FBI field office or other law enforcement agency, or
Source: US FBI
WICHITA, KAN. – A Kansas man has been charged through criminal complaint in Wichita, Kansas, on allegations related to child sexual abuse materials.
According to court documents, Kenneth Norman Baker, 41, of Baxter Springs is charged with one count of receipt of child pornography, one count of distribution of child pornography, and one count of possession of child pornography.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Hart is prosecuting the case.
Project Safe Childhood
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
A complaint is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
###
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
CHENGDU, June 13 — Member states of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) discussed sci-tech collaboration during a meeting in Chengdu, the capital of southwest China’s Sichuan Province, on Thursday.
During the ninth science ministers’ meeting of the SCO, science ministers and other representatives of SCO member states reviewed the organization’s innovation cooperation plans and discussed progress in multilateral research projects. They exchanged views on national sci-tech development policies and cooperative initiatives.
Chinese Minister of Science and Technology Yin Hejun said that SCO members have continuously strengthened cooperation on sci-tech innovation, making great contributions to regional peace, stability and development.
Yin described the ministerial meeting as a key platform to strengthen cooperation mechanisms and jointly address global sci-tech governance issues. He expressed China’s hopes to advance practical cooperation for sustainable development and improve public welfare across SCO member states.
The participants agreed to hold the 10th SCO science ministers’ meeting in Kyrgyzstan in 2026.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, June 13 — A revised three-volume collection of works by Chen Yun has been published to mark the 120th birth anniversary of the veteran Chinese leader.
The new edition, which expands upon the original collection of Chen’s works published in June 2005, features 401 works by Chen between October 1935 and October 1986, totaling about 1.36 million Chinese characters.
Significant updates include the addition of 15 previously uncollected writings, six of which are being made publicly available for the first time.
Chen was born in 1905 and joined the Communist Party of China (CPC) in 1925. He died of illness in 1995 at the age of 90. He was recognized as a great proletarian revolutionary and statesman, and as one of the founding figures of the country’s socialist economy.
He was a key member of both the Party’s first generation of central collective leadership with Mao Zedong at the core and the second generation of central collective leadership with Deng Xiaoping at the core.
Compiled by the Institute of Party History and Literature of the CPC Central Committee, the new collection has been published by the Central Party Literature Press.
Source: Government of Ireland – Department of Jobs Enterprise and Innovation
14th June 2025
Strong demand by businesses for energy efficiency grants in 2025
The Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke today welcomed new research which shows four in five businesses (83%) believe sustainability is important to them on a day-to-day basis. The finding is part of a survey of over 300 SMEs carried out on behalf of the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment by Amárach Research to identify what factors motivate small and micro businesses to become more sustainable.
The research shows that not only do a large majority of SMEs think sustainability is important, many have already taken steps to become so. Almost two in three (63%) of the businesses surveyed had addressed their waste, two in five their water usage (41%), and nearly half (49%) had taken steps to address energy efficiency.
Minister Burke said it was particularly encouraging to see the number of companies which had already taken action to become more sustainable:
“There is money available from the Government to help businesses to cut their costs and become more sustainable. I’d urge any small or micro enterprise to contact either their Local Enterprise Office (LEO) or the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) and talk to them about the grants available which can make them more sustainable and competitive.
“The LEO’s Energy Efficiency Grant will cover three quarters of the cost of items such as new energy efficient equipment, smart control or heat recovery systems. So far this year alone 296 small businesses have availed of grants worth €2.45 million in total. Last year 289 businesses received grants worth €2.28m.
“The SEAI’s Business Energy Upgrades Scheme meanwhile funds energy efficient and renewable measures in commercial buildings and since its launch in November 2024, 102 applications have been approved totalling €2.39m in grant funding”, said Minister Burke.
Just over one in three of the organisations surveyed had a written sustainability strategy in place. That figure rises for medium (48%) and large (73%) sized organisations and falls to just one in four (24%) for micro and small firms.
Minister of State for Small Business and Retail and Circular Economy Alan Dillon said the Government had supports in place to help SMEs put a plan in place:
“The SEAI, the LEOs and Enterprise Ireland (EI) offer grants to businesses to get advice on how to identify and act on energy-saving opportunities. This is really worthwhile doing as it gives SMEs a starting point and a plan.
“I was also really pleased to see the high level of awareness about the Circular Economy (75%) in this survey, which is a core part of making Irish businesses more sustainable. Companies that embrace circularity by considering the full life cycle of their products can cut costs and will gain a competitive edge in both EU and global markets. To learn more, I strongly encourage business to investigate two state-funded supports – MODOS from the LEO network, which is now taking registrations for circular economy training in the autumn and Circuléire, which delivers wrap-around support for sustainable manufacturing.”
The research findings are published on enterprise.gov.ie, and more information on the supports available to businesses is available from the National Enterprise Hub.
Notes To Editor
This research was undertaken in November 2024.
https://mywaste.ie/dispose-waste/in-your-workplace/modos-circular-economy-training/
ENDS
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Leading tech firms have partnered with government to deliver AI skills training to 7.5 million UK workers.
A fifth of the UK workforce will be supported with the AI skills they need to thrive in their jobs, breaking down barriers to opportunity and unlocking economic growth.
That’s the message Technology Secretary Peter Kyle delivered this week (Friday 13 June) as he brought together leading tech firms for a first round of focused talks.
Peter Kyle met the likes of Amazon, Barclays, BT, Google, IBM, Intuit, Microsoft, Sage, and Salesforce, as a new government-industry partnership unveiled by the Prime Minister during London Tech Week formally kicked off its work.
The talks focused on how industry and government can work together to deliver on this joint ambition, including identifying future skills needs and making training more accessible. During the meeting, the group worked towards agreeing terms of reference and a schedule of regular meetings helping to track its progress.
Science, Innovation, and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle said:
Artificial Intelligence is the new economic frontier, and we want to get Brits ready for jobs of the future so we can spark the growth powering our Plan for Change.
If we want to realise AI’s incredible potential though, we need to make sure people of all ages and from all parts of the UK have the skills they need for jobs both in and with the technology – especially given we expect around 10 million workers to be using AI in their day-to-day role by 2035.
Within days of announcing that we’re partnering with some of the world’s biggest tech leaders to help us do exactly that, we’re getting them around the table – representing a vote of confidence not only in Britain’s workers, but in the potential we offer as a global AI powerhouse.
Companies who have signed up to this partnership will all bring a different area of expertise to its work. Microsoft have already committed to upskilling 1 million workers in AI by the end of the year, while firms including SAS and Sage will provide high-quality AI training resources for workers, boosting their confidence in using and adopting the technology. IBM are also set to tap into the power of its IBM SkillsBuild training programmes to roll out targeted training modules for workers, arming them with the tools they need to confidently adopt and use AI.
In the 12 months since the government took office, the UK has attracted more than £44 billion in AI investment, with 13,250 jobs being created since the Prime Minister launched the AI Opportunities Action Plan in January.
With a growing number of firms looking to Britain to support their AI ambitions, the collective focus of leading companies and Ministers will now work to equip people across the country with the skills they need to thrive in the age of AI.
Alison Kay, Vice President and Managing Director, UK and Ireland at AWS, said:
Democratising access to digital skills training will be key to helping the UK unlock the full potential of AI, boost productivity, and support the transformation of the UK’s digital economy.
That’s why at Amazon, we’re proud to support the UK government to achieve its goal to train 7.5 million people in AI skills through initiatives like this, and through programmes such as AWS Educate, AWS Skill Builder, and the Skills to Jobs Tech Alliance, which are free for learners.
Working together, we’ll help ensure the benefits of AI are accessible to everyone, and build a pipeline of talent across all nations and regions that can seize the AI opportunity today and in the future.
Craig Bright, Group Chief Information Officer and Deputy Group Co-Chief Operating Officer, Barclays, said:
Partnering to deliver AI education at a national scale reflects our commitment to inclusive innovation -equipping communities with the skills and understanding needed to thrive in the future.
Allison Kirkby, Chief Executive of BT Group, said:
Harnessing AI and the digital infrastructure underpinning it are the growth opportunity of the decade. BT is investing record levels in the networks that enable the AI economy, and we know how important it is that everyone benefits. That’s why we’re so proud to support government’s AI upskilling partnership.
As we equip our people to work with AI-driven tools, we look forward to partnering with government and other businesses to help the wider workforce too.
Google EMEA President, Debbie Weinstein, said:
Our AI Works report uncovered the most effective ways to accelerate nationwide AI adoption and upskilling.
We are thrilled to have this opportunity to work alongside the government and wider industry to apply these learnings, enable more people to reap AI’s benefits, and unlock a £400 billion economic boost that will benefit the country for generations to come.
Leon Butler, Chief Executive, IBM UK and Ireland, said:
AI is helping to transform every industry – opening opportunities to innovate and unlock new forms of value. Creating a workforce that understands digital technologies will be crucial to boost AI adoption and so realise its huge benefits for business and society.
IBM is proud to support the government’s efforts to train more of the UK workforce in AI.
Leigh Thomas, Vice President for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA), at Intuit:
AI is a growth enabler for the UK economy, levelling the playing field for smaller businesses, by giving them the opportunity to access the sort of technology solutions that larger businesses already enjoy.
Businesses embracing AI are 13 times more likely to report increased revenue. This initiative to upskill 7.5 million workers on AI by 2030 will help to improve prosperity for all, and we look forward to accelerating knowledge, understanding and adoption by those that need it most.
Steve Hare, CEO, Sage, said:
This initiative is exactly what the UK needs – skills-focused and future-looking. At Sage, we see every day how small businesses want to embrace AI but are held back by a lack of confidence and know-how.
By working together across government, industry, and education, we can give people the tools they need to unlock AI’s full potential and drive real productivity across the economy.
Zahra Bahrololoumi CBE, CEO of Salesforce UK and Ireland said:
Ensuring the UK workforce has the skills to work effectively with AI is crucial for driving economic growth. At Salesforce, we are committed to equipping our teams and communities with essential AI skills.
We welcome the government’s goal to train 7.5 million UK workers in AI by 2030. Having opened our first AI centre in 2024, this week we strengthened our vote of confidence in the UK by awarding $2.35 million to organisations dedicated to digital and AI literacy.
Together with government, these investments will enhance productivity, boost prosperity, and ensure that humans and AI thrive together in the new era of work.
Glyn Townsend, Education and Academic relationships lead for SAS EMEA, said:
Artificial intelligence is reshaping work faster than any previous technology, and doing so across an unprecedented 5 distinct generations active in the UK labour market.
The UK already ranks third in the global AI league – we must therefore equip every worker, from apprentices to octogenarians, with the ability to seize the opportunities this revolution creates and leverage new innovative technologies from our world-leading universities and entrepreneurs.
By backing this programme, we will ensure equitable access to the skills that drive both meaningful careers and sustainable economic growth.
The full list of companies who are part of the government-industry partnership is:
DSIT media enquiries
Email press@dsit.gov.uk
Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 6pm 020 7215 3000
Source: Government of Canada regional news
Released on June 13, 2025
Effective as of 5 p.m. on June 13, 2025, the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) has revised the provincial fire ban to allow the use of All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) and Utility Terrain Vehicles (UTVs) in all areas of the province.
“Due to favourable weather conditions, we are seeing reduced risk for fire starts caused by ATVs and UTVs,” SPSA Vice-President of Operations Steve Roberts said. “We ask that ATV/UTV users stay away from the active fire lines to ensure personal safety and safety of crews.”
The provincial fire ban remains in effect, and continues to prohibit any open fires, controlled burns and fireworks in the area north of the provincial forest boundary up to the Churchill River.
As of 3:30 p.m., there are 19 active wildfires in the province. To date, Saskatchewan has had 259 wildfires, which is 84 more than the previous year at this time. The wildfire five-year average in Saskatchewan to date is 148.
Anyone who spots a wildfire can call 1-800-667-9660, dial 9-1-1 or contact their closest SPSA Forest Protection Area office.
People can find an interactive fire ban map, frequently asked questions, fire risk maps and fire prevention tips at saskpublicsafety.ca.
A list of fire bans and restrictions in provincial parks and recreation sites can be found here.
Established in 2017, the SPSA is a treasury board crown corporation responsible for wildfire management, emergency management, Sask911, SaskAlert, the Civic Addressing Registry, the Provincial Disaster Assistance Program and fire safety.
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For more information, contact:
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
CHICAGO — A federal judge in Chicago today sentenced former Speaker of the Illinois House of Representatives MICHAEL J. MADIGAN to seven and a half years in federal prison for using his official position to corruptly solicit and receive personal financial rewards for himself and his associates.
A jury in U.S. District Court in Chicago earlier this year convicted Madigan of conspiracy to commit an offense against the United States; using interstate facilities to promote unlawful activity; wire fraud; and bribery. Evidence at the four-month trial revealed that Madigan, who served as House Speaker and occupied a number of other political roles, conspired with others to cause the utility company Commonwealth Edison to make monetary payments to Madigan’s associates as a reward for their loyalty to Madigan, in return for performing little or no legitimate work for the business. The true nature of the payments was to influence and reward Madigan in connection with specific legislation ComEd sought in the Illinois General Assembly.
Madigan, 83, of Chicago, also schemed with an Alderman of the Chicago City Council to steer legal work to Madigan’s private law firm and Madigan’s son, in exchange for Madigan’s assistance in inducing the Governor of Illinois to appoint the Alderman to a compensated state board position.
After reviewing Madigan’s criminal conduct and finding that Madigan perjured himself repeatedly in his trial testimony, U.S. District Judge John Robert Blakey imposed the seven-and-a-half-year prison sentence and fined Madigan $2.5 million.
The sentence was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, Douglas S. DePodesta, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI, and Ramsey E. Covington, Special Agent-in-Charge of the IRS Criminal Investigation Division in Chicago. The government was represented today by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarah Streicker, Diane MacArthur, and Julia Schwartz.
“Corruption at the highest level of the state legislature tears at the fabric of a vital governing body,” said U.S. Attorney Boutros. “It was the grit and determination of our team of prosecutors and law enforcement agents, led by our former colleague, Amarjeet S. Bhachu, who served as the Chief of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Public Corruption and Organized Crime Section until earlier this year, that allowed this case to reach a jury and send a clear message that the criminal conduct by former Speaker Madigan was unacceptable. I couldn’t be prouder of the strong commitment of our law enforcement partners at the FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation. Our Office and our partners remain steadfast in our commitment to vigorously prosecute corruption at all levels of government and hold public officials accountable for violating the public trust.”
“Mr. Madigan was elected to serve the people of Illinois, but his actions demonstrated time and time again that his priority was his own personal interests and gain,” said FBI SAC DePodesta. “Thanks to the dedicated investigative and prosecutorial teams, he will now be held accountable for those criminal actions. The FBI remains dedicated to aggressively investigating corruption and fraud to ensure that the public has faith in our democratic institutions and elected leaders who are truly honest and fair.”
“Today’s sentencing marks a pivotal moment in our commitment to uphold the integrity of public service,” said IRS-CI SAC Covington. “Through meticulously tracing the flow of illicit funds tied to legislative influence and no‑show jobs, our team has demonstrated that no individual—regardless of stature or tenure—is beyond the reach of the law. Holding Michael J. Madigan accountable today reinforces the core principle that public trust is sacred, and those who betray it will be brought to justice.”
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
WASHINGTON – Marquise Jones, 26, of the District of Columbia, was arrested Tuesday on charges of second-degree murder while armed with a knife, for the jailhouse death of 29-year-old Carlos Shelley on May 12, 2025. The arrest was announced by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
Jones was presented today before Superior Court Judge Robert Hildum, who ordered Jones held without bond until a July 2, 2025 preliminary hearing before Judge Todd Edelman.
On Monday, May 12, 2025, at approximately 2:30 p.m., First District officers responded to the Central Detention Facility in the 1900 block of D Street, Southeast, for the report of a stabbing. Upon arrival, officers located an adult male, unconscious and not breathing, suffering from life-threatening stab wounds. DC Fire and EMS responded to the scene and after finding no signs consistent with life, the victim was pronounced deceased.
This case is being investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Molly K. Smith.
A criminal charge is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
Defendant allegedly sent a ‘manifesto’ in connection with anger over his father’s death some 20 years ago
Tacoma – A 46-year-old resident of Graham, Washington was charged today in U.S. District Court in Tacoma following the investigation into his threats to build a bomb and set it off in a public area, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller. David Michael Eddo was arrested yesterday and made his initial appearance on the criminal complaint charging him with illegal possession of ammunition this afternoon. He is scheduled for a detention hearing on Wednesday June 18, 2025. He remains detained at the Federal Detention Center at SeaTac.
According to the criminal complaint, Eddo is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammuniti0n because of his conviction for drive-by shooting and assault. In that 2019 case, Eddo fired multiple shots into the cab of a semi-truck that was on the I-5 exit ramp to the Port of Tacoma. He was sentenced to 26 months in prison.
In early May 2025, Eddo came to the attention of the FBI for writing a ‘manifesto’ in which he claimed to be building and deploying a bomb to get ‘justice’ for his father who died approximately 20 years ago at the Port of Tacoma. Eddo allegedly names certain people who were involved in litigation over his father’s death as targets in the manifesto.
On June 12, 2025, law enforcement searched Eddo’s Graham home and recovered various items that could be used to make an explosive device including Ammonium Perchlorate also called Potassium Nitrate. Eddo had no license to purchase, use, or store explosives.
Additionally, agents recovered two different types of ammunition. Unlawful possession of ammunition is punishable by up to 15 years in prison.
The charges contained in the criminal complaint are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The FBI is leading the investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Elyne Vaught.
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
PHOENIX, Ariz. – During the week of enforcement operations from June 7, 2025, through June 13, 2025, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona brought immigration-related criminal charges against 266 individuals. Specifically, the United States filed 108 cases in which aliens illegally re-entered the United States, and the United States also charged 140 aliens for illegally entering the United States. In its ongoing effort to deter unlawful immigration, the United States filed 16 cases against 18 individuals responsible for smuggling illegal aliens into and within the District of Arizona.
These cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE ERO), ICE Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), U.S. Border Patrol, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Recent matters of interest include:
United States v. Fernando Alvin Robles: On June 9, 2025, Fernando Alvin Robles drove a vehicle to the Interstate 19 immigration checkpoint. While Robles was at primary inspection, agents noticed that he was looking around as if he was searching for an exit. Robles then gave the agents consent to search the trunk of his vehicle and was referred to secondary inspection for the search. Robles parked outside of the secondary inspection area, but as agents approached the vehicle to direct him to the designated area, Robles drove off at a high rate of speed. Agents pursued Robles and he eventually came to a stop approximately 9 miles later. During a search of Robles’ trunk, agents found a Guatemalan citizen hiding inside who was illegally present in the United States. Robles was charged by criminal complaint with Transportation of Illegal Aliens for Profit and Illegal Re-entry. [Case Number: 25‐MJ‐05230]
United States v. Jesus Maldonado-Cortez, United States v. Jessie Pacheco Jose, and United States v. Miguel Alejandro Abril-Miramon: On June 8, 2025, Border Patrol Agents observed Jesus Maldonado‐Cortez driving on a rural dirt road commonly used by smuggling organizations. Agents initiated a vehicle stop to conduct an immigration inspection, but Maldonado‐Cortez failed to yield. As agents pursued Maldonado‐Cortez, he drove through a barbed wire fence and off the road. Agents continued their pursuit on foot and ran to the vehicle’s last location. When they approached the vehicle, they observed that the driver’s door was open and there was no one inside. Agents searched the area and apprehended one individual approximately 300 meters from the vehicle, who was determined to be a citizen of Mexico, illegally present in the United States. The next day, agents received information about a group of five suspected illegal aliens in close proximity to the place where the vehicle stopped. Agents responded to the area and apprehended all five subjects, including Maldonado‐Cortez. All five individuals were determined to be citizens of Mexico, illegally present in the United States. Maldonado‐Cortez was charged with Transportation of Illegal Aliens for Profit and Illegal Re‐entry. Two of the other subjects apprehended, Jessie Pacheco Jose and Miguel Alejandro Abril‐Miramon, were charged with Illegal Re‐entry. [Case Numbers: 25‐MJ‐05181; 25‐MJ‐05250; 25‐MJ‐05233]
A criminal complaint is simply a method by which a person is charged with criminal activity and raises no inference of guilt. An individual is presumed innocent until evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
RELEASE NUMBER: 2025-094_June 13 Immigration Enforcement
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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZ for the latest news.
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
SAN FRANCISCO – A federal grand jury has indicted Nathan Wu-Falkenborg on 15 counts of bank fraud and aggravated identity theft in connection with the alleged theft of funds from prepaid debit cards. Wu-Falkenborg made an initial appearance in federal district court today.
According to the indictment filed June 4, 2025, and unsealed today, Wu-Falkenborg, 49, of Alameda, worked in fraud prevention at a company that administered a prepaid debit card program. Known as Direct Express, the program allowed recipients of federal benefits to access their benefits through a prepaid debit card account. Between September 2021 and March 2022, Wu-Falkenborg allegedly used his access to confidential account information to activate and use numerous Direct Express accounts that had been funded but did not appear to be in use. The indictment describes that Wu-Falkenborg fraudulently obtained approximately $800,000 from these Direct Express accounts by way of several hundred ATM withdrawals around the Bay Area and online transactions.
Wu-Falkenborg is also charged with the unauthorized use of a Direct Express customer’s identity to open various accounts that he used to execute the scheme and unlawfully using debit cards associated with two victim customers.
United States Attorney Craig H. Missakian and FBI Special Agent in Charge Sanjay Virmani made the announcement.
Wu-Falkenborg was released on bond. He is scheduled to appear in district court on July 9, 2025, for a status conference before U.S. District Judge Charles R. Breyer.
Wu-Falkenborg is charged with 12 counts of bank fraud in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1344(1), (2) and three counts of aggravated identity theft in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1028A(a)(1). An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison and a fine of $1 million for each bank fraud charge, and a mandatory minimum sentence of two years in prison and a fine of $250,000 for each aggravated identity theft charge. Any sentence following conviction would be imposed by the court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jared Buszin and Charles Bisesto are prosecuting the case with the assistance of Tina Rosenbaum. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the FBI.
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
LAS VEGAS – A Mexican national who twice illegally reentered the United States after previously being removed from the country was sentenced today by United States District Judge Gloria M. Navarro to 10 years in prison followed by five years of supervised release for his role in the trafficking of fentanyl to Nevada, Colorado, and California.
Marco Antonio Quezada-Ramirez is a citizen and national of Mexico and he pleaded guilty to one-count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance.
According to court documents, Marco Antonio Quezada-Ramirez admitted that beginning on a date unknown and continuing up to on or about September 19, 2023, there was an agreement between him and his co-defendants to distribute fentanyl in the United States. As part of the agreement, Quezada-Ramirez admitted that on June 8, 2023, he a sold approximately 600 fentanyl pills, and on July 12, 2023, he sold approximately 500 fentanyl pills. On July 31, 2023, Quezada-Ramirez received a shipment of approximately 30,000 fentanyl pills that was intended for resale. Law enforcement recovered the 30,000 fentanyl pills during a traffic stop in Las Vegas along with cocaine and heroin.
United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Deputy Special Agent in Charge Anthony Chrysanthis for the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Los Angeles Division, which oversees Las Vegas, made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the DEA and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Melanee Smith prosecuted the case.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States, using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
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By Susana Suisuiki, Presenter/producer of RNZ Pacific Waves
Fiji’s Embassy in Abu Dhabi says it is closely monitoring the situation in Iran and Israel as tensions remain high.
Israel carried out a dozen strikes against Iranian military and nuclear sites on Friday, claiming it acted out of “self-defence”, saying Iran is close to building a nuclear weapon.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned Israel that “severe punishment” would follow and two waves of missiles were fired at Israel.
Fiji’s Embassy in Abu Dhabi is urging the Fijian community there to remain calm, stay informed, and reach out to the Embassy should they have any concerns or require assistance during this period of heightened regional tensions.
A Fiji national in Abu Dhabi said he had yet to hear how other Pacific communities in the Middle East were coping amid the Israel-Iran conflict.
Speaking to RNZ Pacific Waves from Abu Dhabi, Fiji media specialist Kelepi Abariga said the situation was “freaky and risky”.
Abariga has lived in Abu Dhabi for more than a decade and while he was far from the danger zones, he was concerned for his “fellow Pacific people”.
‘I hope they are safe’
“I just hope they are safe as of now, this is probably the first time Israel has attacked Iran directly,” he said.
“Everybody thinks that Iran has a huge nuclear deposit with them, that they could use it against any country in the world.
“But you know, that is yet to be seen.
“So right now, you know we from the Pacific, we’re right in the middle of everything and I think you know, our safety is paramount.”
Abariga was not aware of any Pacific people in Tehran but said if they were, they were most likely to be working for an NGO or the United Nations.
However, Abariga said there were Fiji nationals working at the International Christian embassy in Jerusalem and Solomon Island students in the south of Israel.
He also said that Fijian troops were stationed at Golan Heights occupied by Israel.
While Abariga described Abu Dhabi as the safest country in the Middle East, he said the politics in the region were volatile.
“It’s been intense like that for all this time, and I think when you mention Iran in this country [UAE], they have all the differences so it’s probably something that has started a long way before.”
This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.
Juba, June 14, 2025—Due to safety and security concerns, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has made the decision to permanently close its hospital in Ulang, Upper Nile State, as well as withdraw its support to 13 primary health facilities in the county. MSF suspended all its medical services on 14 April 2025 after armed individuals forced their way into the hospital and its offices, threatened both staff and patients, and violently looted and destroyed property throughout the facility.
The hospital infrastructure, in which MSF had invested millions of euros, was completely destroyed. In addition, intruders looted medicines worth €135,000—enough to run the hospital for months and care for thousands of patients. This has left the hospital in ruins and unable to function.
“They took everything: medical equipment, laptops, patients’ beds and mattresses from the wards, and approximately nine months’ worth of medical supplies, including two planeloads of surgical kits and drugs delivered just the week before. Whatever they could not carry, they destroyed,” says Zakaria Mwatia, MSF head of mission for South Sudan.
“The extensive losses from the looting have left us without the necessary resources to continue operations. We have no other option but to make the difficult decision to close the hospital and our support to 13 primary healthcare facilities, as they all relied on the hospital for medical supplies, referrals, and technical support.”
This was the second attack on MSF in the area in less than three months. In January, two clearly marked MSF boats on their way to Ulang after delivering medical supplies to Nasir County Hospital were shot at by unknown gunmen, forcing everyone on board to jump into the water and swim to safety. Less than a month after the looting, another MSF hospital was bombed in Old Fangak, forcing MSF to suspend activities.
Such attacks on healthcare facilities severely disrupt access to healthcare services by the communities, who depend on MSF for medical assistance. The closure of MSF facilities has left the area spanning more than 200 kilometres, from the Ethiopian border to Malakal, without any secondary healthcare facility. With the closure of the Ulang Hospital, pressure has increased significantly on the few remaining health structures, especially in Malakal, which has recorded an influx of patients in recent weeks.
“The security situation in the area remains volatile, with ongoing clashes in neighbouring regions. MSF prioritises the safety of its staff and patients and the integrity of our services, but the current environment makes it impossible to ensure either. We are deeply concerned by the growing trend of attacks on healthcare and the devastating impact this has on communities. We urgently call for the protection of patients, healthcare workers, and medical facilities at all times,” Mwatia adds.
Since its launch in 2018, the MSF project in Ulang has provided vital healthcare services to over 150,000 people across Ulang County. This included running a secondary care hospital and supporting 13 primary healthcare facilities throughout the region. Over the past seven years, MSF has carried out more than 139,730 outpatient consultations, admitted 19,350 patients, treated 32,966 cases of malaria, and assisted 2,685 maternal deliveries, among other essential services. During this time, MSF also facilitated patient referrals by boat along the Sobat River, provided support to Nasir County Hospital, and responded to multiple emergencies and disease outbreaks.
Despite these closures, MSF remains committed to responding to the healthcare needs of displaced and vulnerable people in Ulang and Nasir counties. A mobile emergency team is assessing the needs and preparing to provide short-term healthcare services along the Sobat Corridor, wherever security conditions allow. MSF continues to provide healthcare services in its other projects in Upper Nile State, including in Malakal and Renk Counties.
MSF is an international, medical, humanitarian organisation that delivers medical care to people in need, regardless of their origin, religion, or political affiliation. MSF has been working in Haiti for over 30 years, offering general healthcare, trauma care, burn wound care, maternity care, and care for survivors of sexual violence. MSF Australia was established in 1995 and is one of 24 international MSF sections committed to delivering medical humanitarian assistance to people in crisis. In 2022, more than 120 project staff from Australia and New Zealand worked with MSF on assignment overseas. MSF delivers medical care based on need alone and operates independently of government, religion or economic influence and irrespective of race, religion or gender. For more information visit msf.org.au
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND)
BISMARCK, N.D. – The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced an award of $2,325,638 through the Airport Improvement Program (AIP) for projects at several airports across North Dakota. The funding will be distributed to the following:
The FAA’s AIP provides funding to airports nationwide for planning, capital, and safety enhancement projects.
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
Jon Waugh, age 55, from Sioux City, Iowa, a man who possessed methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it within 1,000 feet of a protected location pled guilty June 12, 2025, in federal court in Sioux City.
On August 14, 2024, law enforcement officers contacted Waugh outside his apartment for an outstanding arrest warrant, while he was on his way to sell methamphetamine. Officers searched Waugh and found and seized approximately 112 grams of methamphetamine and $854 in cash. Law enforcement officers searched Waugh’s residence and seized over one kilogram of methamphetamine, a scale with meth, drug paraphernalia, and four firearms, one of which was stolen. At the plea hearing, Waugh admitted he planned to distribute the methamphetamine to other individuals in Sioux City. Waugh’s residence was within 1,000 feet of a protected location, specifically a local elementary school in Sioux City.
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Waugh remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Waugh faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of life imprisonment, a $20,000,000 fine, and at least ten years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case was investigated by the Tri-State Drug Task Force based in Sioux City, Iowa, that consists of law enforcement personnel from the Drug Enforcement Administration; Sioux City, Iowa, Police Department; Homeland Security Investigations; Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office; South Sioux City, Nebraska, Police Department; Nebraska State Patrol; Iowa National Guard; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; United States Marshals Service; South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation; and Woodbury County Attorney’s Office and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kraig Hamit.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
NASHVILLE, TN, June 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev, founder of the Tennessee-headquartered Isha Foundation, has been recognized with the Global Indian of the Year award by the Canada India Foundation (CIF). The award was presented at CIF’s annual gala in Toronto on May 22, 2025, in acknowledgment of his international contributions to environmental sustainability, social upliftment, and inner well-being.
Sadhguru’s leadership in global ecological efforts—most notably the Conscious Planet – Save Soil movement and Cauvery Calling campaign—has mobilized millions worldwide. These initiatives focus on restoring soil health, promoting agroforestry, and encouraging responsible environmental stewardship, supported by scientific research and policy engagement.
During the award ceremony, Sadhguru announced that the CAD 50,000 honorarium would be donated to Cauvery Calling to further its work in revitalizing the Cauvery River basin. “This is not recognition for me, but for the thousands of volunteers working relentlessly to serve both people and the planet,” he said.
Beyond environmental causes, Sadhguru’s work through the Isha Foundation spans education, rural development, and accessible wellness programs across more than 50 countries. In the U.S., the Foundation operates in 34 states, with its primary center located on the Cumberland Plateau in Tennessee. The institute has become a destination for both spiritual exploration and community engagement, contributing to local economies and tourism.
Leaders from CIF cited Sadhguru’s wide-reaching influence across cultural, political, and scientific spheres in selecting him for the honor—highlighting his ability to bridge tradition and innovation on a global stage.
The Canada India Foundation’s recognition adds to a growing list of accolades acknowledging Sadhguru’s efforts to foster conscious, inclusive, and sustainable solutions for global well-being.
Due to changes to the federal COVID-19 vaccine procurement process earlier this year, provinces and territories are now responsible for purchasing COVID-19 vaccines for residents. Alberta’s government remains committed to ensuring Albertans who are at highest risk due to COVID-19 have access to immunizations.
Starting this fall, Albertans who are at a higher risk of severe outcomes from COVID-19 will be able to access the vaccine through public health clinics in the province.
“In previous years, we’ve seen significant vaccine wastage. By shifting to a targeted approach and introducing pre-ordering, we aim to better align supply with demand – ensuring we remain fiscally responsible while continuing to protect those at highest risk.”
In the 2023-24 respiratory virus season, a total of just over one million COVID-19 vaccines were wasted, or 54 per cent of Alberta’s order that year. Based on the Center for Disease Control costing estimates of $110 per vaccine dose, this means that about $135-million worth of vaccines were never used and were discarded.
Now that Alberta’s government is responsible for procuring vaccines, it’s important to better determine how many vaccines are needed to support efforts to minimize waste and control costs.
This new approach will ensure Alberta’s government is able to better determine its overall COVID-19 vaccine needs in the coming years, preventing significant waste.
In the fall, the COVID-19 vaccine program will be rolled out in four phases, beginning with the highest-risk groups and gradually expanding to include more Albertans over time.
Phase 1:
Through Phase 1, provincially funded COVD-19 vaccines will be available free of charge to residents of seniors supportive living accommodations and home care clients.
Phase 2:
Through phases two, three and four, to prevent significant waste, the COVID-19 vaccine will only be available through public health clinics. Community pharmacies will no longer be administering COVID-19 vaccines.
In Phase 2, provincially funded COVID-19 vaccines will be available free of charge for:
Phase 3:
Through Phase 3, the COVID-19 vaccine will be available to all Albertans 65 years and older. Albertans in Phase 3 will be required to cover the full costs of the vaccine. Work is underway to determine what the final cost will be per vaccine.
Phase 4:
Through Phase 4, remaining COVID-19 vaccines will be available to other Albertans who will be required to pay the full costs of the vaccine.
Starting Aug. 11, eligible Albertans will be able to signal their intent to receive the COVID-19 and influenza vaccines by pre-ordering through the Alberta Vaccine Booking System. Following the pre-order, Albertans will receive a reminder notification via text message or email prompting them to book their immunization appointment in early October. When individuals book their immunization appointment for fall/winter 2025-26, they can also pre-order their vaccine for 2026-27.
It is recommended Albertans talk to their primary care provider to determine what is the best course of action for their needs.
Source: Scottish Government
Recipients of blue light service medals in Scotland.
King’s Police Medal
Assistant Chief Constable Gary Ritchie, Police Scotland
King’s Fire Service Medal
Volunteer Leader Gerry Ralston, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service
Watch Commander John Aitchison, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service
King’s Ambulance Service Medal
Scottish Ambulance Service Corporate Risk Manager, Sarah Stevenson, Scottish Ambulance Service
KING’S POLICE MEDAL
Assistant Chief Constable Gary Ritchie, Police Scotland
Former Assistant Chief Constable Gary Ritchie joined Strathclyde Police in 1991 and retired in April 2025 after 33 years’ police service. He was an experienced Major Events Commander, Strategic Firearms Commander, and Public Order Gold Commander. He was instrumental in the roll-out of naloxone to all frontline police officers, making Police Scotland the first force globally to implement a nationwide roll-out of the opioid reversing medication. Under his leadership, a national naloxone co-ordination unit was established, prior to national rollout. During his time at Police Scotland, 13,216 operational officers completed the training, more than 10,500 frontline officers were equipped with naloxone while on duty and officers administered naloxone to over 630 individual incidents involving suspected opioid overdoses.
In 2021, ACC Ritchie was instrumental in the creation, development and delivery of Police Scotland’s International Academy and the wider international strategy for Police Scotland. He has represented and showcased Police Scotland globally, hosting visits to the United States, Australia, New Zealand, Norway, Germany, and Columbia. In 2023, he led a Scottish delegation to the Global Law Enforcement & Public Health Association Conference in Sweden where he outlined Scotland’s public health approach to addressing underlying inequalities. That same year, ACC Ritchie was appointed Executive Lead for Operational Support, a broad area of responsibility ranging from road policing to the planning and preparation for events and counter terrorism incidents. He was responsible for major events planning in Scotland and was involved in the COP-26 conference held in Glasgow, Operation Unicorn, following the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, and the Interpol General Assembly, which saw senior policing officials from across the world descend on Glasgow to discuss international cooperation. ACC Ritchie also led on Royalty and VIP Protection in Scotland, ensuring Police Scotland worked closely with the Metropolitan Police in relation to the security of protected persons.
KING’S FIRE SERVICE MEDAL
Volunteer Leader Gerry Ralston, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service
Volunteer Leader Ralston is an On Call Firefighter recognised for his work at Salen Community Fire Station on the Isle of Mull, and across East and West Dunbartonshire and Argyll and Bute. The on-call firefighter joined the Salen Volunteer Unit as a Firefighter in 1988. He has helped design and deliver initiatives aimed at improving how the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service identify, recruit, and retain On Call Firefighters. Volunteer Leader Ralston also helps drive forward programmes aimed at educating and informing the community, such as CPR awareness, and delivers engagement sessions to Tobermory High School.
He has organised and raised over £8000 for different causes and charities including The Fire Fighters Charity, Cancer Research UK, Stroke Foundation, the Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow and, in July this year, will tackle a 62-mile event for Cancer Research UK. During the pandemic, he facilitated test and protect at Craignure Community Fire Station, taking time out with his main employment to assist the community. He has been at the forefront of all fundraising efforts undertaken by Salen Community Fire station and regularly supports Tobermory Fire Station with their annual open day including donations supporting the Firefighters Charity and other deserving local charities and projects.
Watch Commander John Aitchison, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service
Watch Commander John Aitchison has been a member of the Fire and Rescue Service in Scotland for over 21 years – initially joining Grampian Fire Brigade – where he was first posted to Altens Fire Station, Aberdeen. He was promoted to Crew Commander in 2006, where he served at Aberdeen’s Central Fire Station. It was while working here in 2007 that he became a member of Operation Florian, a charity that organises fundraising for international humanitarian aid. In 2008, as part of the project, Watch Commander Aitchison led a convoy of donated fire engines from Aberdeen to Macedonia. On their arrival, the watch commander and his team provided two weeks of training to local fire crews with the donated equipment. He would go on to complete the trip a further two times – returning to provide further training and equipment.
In 2011, Watch Commander Aitchison joined the United Kingdom International Search and Rescue as a Crew Leader and Sector Medic, and is on standby to attend national and international emergencies. As a member of this team, he was sent to help the response to the Nepal Earthquake in 2015 and the earthquake in Türkiye in 2023. His work in this area led to difficulties with his mental wellbeing. Determined to not let this define him, he went on to co-found Talk Group 20 Aberdeen – a peer support group for firefighters which aims to safeguard mental wellbeing. He also co-founded the organisation, Fire Aid Nepal, a project which aims to support, and future prepare the Nepalese community following the devastating quake 10-years-ago. In 2023, he played an integral role in forming the first ever fire and rescue service for the Mount Everest region and, in 2024, received a Pride of Scotland Award for his work in Nepal which has also attracted letters of thanks from King Charles III. He was promoted to Watch Commander in 2020, where he is currently a national urban search and rescue instructor.
KING’S AMBULANCE SERVICE MEDAL
SAS Corporate Risk Manager, Sarah Stevenson, Scottish Ambulance Service
As Corporate Risk Manager for the Scottish Ambulance Service, Ms Stevenson has worked tirelessly to embed robust and effective risk management arrangements across the organisation, embedding this at local and board levels.
She also recently led a significant project to replace a 20-year-old IT risk management system to record risk and adverse events. This two-year project has resulted in substantial improvements for all staff, including easier reporting access and annual recurring savings of more than £13000.
Ms Stevenson personally led the training and awareness programme for the new system, leading staff engagement sessions and developing video tutorials and other tools to assist staff and improve accountability and responsibility. The system – which went live in March this year – has received positive feedback from Scottish Ambulance Service staff.
Source: Scottish Government
First Minister congratulates Scotland’s Honour recipients.
First Minister John Swinney has paid tribute to Scotland’s recipients in The King’s Birthday Honours list.
This year’s awards celebrate individuals making exceptional contributions to public life or their community in keeping with the theme of ‘public service’.
Professor Ursula Martin has been appointed a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire for services to science and education.
Those being awarded a CBE include Professor Ewan Beattie OBE, Professor and Head of the Healthy Working Lives Group at the University of Glasgow for services to Occupational Medicine and reducing health inequalities; Professor Julie Fitzpatrick, Chief Scientific Adviser to Scottish Government; and businessman and philanthropist Dr John Watson OBE for services to education and charity.
Among those receiving an OBE are Lorna and John Norgrove, Co-founders of the Linda Norgrove Foundation for services to Women and Children Abroad and in Scotland; Karen Watt, lately Chief Executive Officer for the Scottish Funding Council for public service and Peter MacDonald, Head of Research for Scottish Tartans Authority is recognised for services to the tartan industry.
Those receiving MBEs include Jennifer Gill, Founder of LoveOliver for services to families affected by childhood cancer, and Alistair Moffat, founder of Borders Book, Lennoxlove Book Festivals and Kelso Arts Festival for services to literature and culture.
Among those honoured with a BEM are the co-founders of Calums Cabin, husband and wife Duncan and Caroline Speirs and Duncan’s twin sister Jenna, for services to charitable fundraising; Shirley Jamieson, former school crossing patrol person in Juniper Green, Edinburgh and Karen Wylie, Founder of the Grub Club for services to ending hunger in the community in Lochside.
Gary Ritchie, Assistant Chief Constable Police Scotland will receive The King’s Police Medal. The King’s Fire Service Medal will be awarded to Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s Volunteer Leader Gerry Ralston, and Watch Commander John Aitchison. Sarah Stevenson, Scottish Ambulance Service Corporate Risk Manager, will receive The King’s Ambulance Service Medal.
The First Minister said:
“My congratulations and thanks to The King’s Birthday Honours recipients who have each made outstanding contributions to community and public life in Scotland.
“The recipients of The King’s Police, Fire or Ambulance Service Medals demonstrate lives dedicated to keeping others safe and supporting communities. I sincerely thank them for their service and commitment.”
Background
Honours are announced twice annually, in June on the Monarch’s official birthday, and at New Year.