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  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Gabe Vasquez Votes to Pass National Defense Bill, Delivering Military Strength and Wins on NM Priorities

    Source: US Representative Gabe Vasquez’s (NM-02)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – On July 15, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) – a member of the House Armed Services Committee (HASC) – voted in favor of the bipartisan Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).  

    “It is vital that we ensure America’s armed forces have the training, equipment, and resources they need to carry out their missions,” said Vasquez. “This bipartisan bill includes my legislation to improve health care for our rural veterans, give our troops a pay raise, recognize New Mexico’s Downwinders, and add many additional provisions that support service members and their families across our state.”

    The Fiscal Year 2026 NDAA includes $882.6 billion in defense spending, national security investments, and support for our military. This includes funding for research and development, a 3.8% pay increase for our troops, and investments to support service members and their families. The bill passed out of Committee by a vote of 55-2 and will now head to the House floor for consideration. 

    Included in the NDAA are Vasquez’s TRICARE Travel Improvement Act and Downwinder Commemoration Act, which ensure New Mexicans’ needs are met and interests are reflected through the nation’s defense investments. 

    • The TRICARE Travel Improvement Act helps military families serving in remote areas access health care by reducing the travel reimbursement threshold under TRICARE Prime from 100 miles to 50 miles for active-duty service members and their families. Currently, families stationed at White Sands Missile Range and Holloman Air Force Base who travel nearly 100 miles to El Paso for medical care are denied reimbursement due to being just under the threshold. This bill is a step toward fairness and affordability for New Mexico’s military families.
    • The Downwinder Commemoration Act recognizes the harm endured by New Mexico’s Downwinders following the 1945 Trinity Test — the first nuclear detonation in U.S. history. It directs the Departments of Defense and Interior to place commemorative monuments in publicly accessible areas at White Sands Missile Range and Holloman Air Force Base. Despite their exposure to radioactive fallout, Downwinder families were excluded from the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) until Rep. Vasquez’s successful push to reauthorize and expand RECA to include New Mexico’s Downwinders. This bill helps deliver long-overdue recognition by permanently commemorating their suffering while preserving their legacy for future generations. 

    In addition to these two measures, Rep. Vasquez secured the following priorities in NDAA:

    Infrastructure & Safety:

    • White Sands Missile Range (WSMR) Power Grid: $38.5 million for power generation and a microgrid at WSMR under the Energy Resiliency and Conservation Investment Program (ERCIP)
    • Kirtland Air Force Base Space HQ: $83 million for Space Rapid Capabilities Office Headquarters construction at Kirtland Air Force Base
    • Holloman Air Force Base Test Track: Report language highlighting the importance of Holloman’s High Speed Test Track and requiring a report on the timeline for constructing a new parallel track
    • Cannon Air Force Base Dorms: $90 million for dorms at Cannon Air Force Base
    • PFAS Cleanup: Language protecting mandated annual reports on DOD PFAS contamination and cleanup efforts, to ensure states like New Mexico have continued visibility into PFAS contamination
    • PFAS Technology: Report language requiring DOD to partner with universities like NMSU to develop cutting edge technology to detect and cleanup PFAS contaminants

    Unexploded Ordinance:

    • Native American Lands Environmental Mitigation Program: Report language holding DOD accountable for cleaning up unexploded ordinance (UXO) on Tribal lands like the Pueblo of Isleta

    Rural Issues:

    • Rural Housing: Report language requiring DOD to partner with local housing authorities in rural areas to address shortages of housing around remote and isolated installations like WSMR and Holloman Air Force Base
    • Specialty Healthcare at Rural Bases: Report language highlighting the challenges service members and families face at rural installations when accessing specialty healthcare and requiring a report on ways the Department can improve specialty provider accessibility
    • Holloman Air Force Base Childcare: Report language encouraging DOD to expand the in-home childcare pilot program to four rural installations, including Holloman Air Force Base

    National Labs/DOE:

    • Los Alamos: $1.55 billion for plutonium operations, including ensuring the capacity to produce 30 plutonium pits annually

    Other Bill Highlights:

    • Pay Raise: 3.8% pay raise for all service members
    • Housing: $1.5 billion for new construction of dorms, barracks, housing, and child development centers
    • Ukraine: $300 million for Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative
    • Environment: $460 million for environmental cleanup and $684 for the Energy Resilience and Conservation Investment Program

    “As this critical legislation continues to make its way through the House, I will keep working to improve it,” Vasquez added. “To maintain U.S. military superiority, we cannot afford to politicize our policies for recruiting, developing, and retaining the best and brightest.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto, Colleagues Press Administration on Conflicting Orders Fueling Uncertainty for Afghans Living in U.S.

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) joined Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Congressman Glenn Ivey (D-Md.-04) and 73 of their colleagues in pressing U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio for answers on the Trump Administration’s inconsistent policies regarding the legal status of Afghan refugees living in the U.S. – many of whom played important roles in supporting American service members during the war in Afghanistan over two decades. 

    In the letter, the lawmakers point out that the justifications for the decisions to implement a large-scale travel ban, which applies to Afghanistan, and terminate Temporary Protected Status conflict with one another. The lawmakers ask Secretary Rubio how the State Department arrived at these determinations and whether it can guarantee that Afghans who may be forced to leave the U.S. will not face danger upon their return to their home country – should the termination of Afghanistan’s TPS designation be upheld.

    The lawmakers quoted the determination that Secretary Rubio made upon consultation over the decision to include Afghanistan in the Administration’s travel ban proclamation, writing, “Specifically, the proclamation bans most entry into the United States from Afghanistan, stating the following as justification: ‘The Taliban, a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) group, controls Afghanistan. Afghanistan lacks a competent or cooperative central authority for issuing passports or civil documents and it does not have appropriate screening and vetting measures.’”

    The lawmakers’ concerns over the safety of Afghan nationals who may be forced to leave the U.S. stem from a recent State Department human rights report covering Afghanistan finding that the Taliban has increased restrictions on freedom of expression and significantly eroded women’s rights. Additionally, Afghanistan remains gripped by violence and instability; the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP), the Afghan affiliate of the Islamic State (ISIS), continues to launch attacks against ethnic and religious minorities and against the Taliban, leading to innocent civilian casualties.

    “As you are aware, many Afghan allies that received TPS stood shoulder to shoulder with American servicemembers for nearly two decades during the war in Afghanistan. Many fled to the United States out of fear of persecution by the Taliban or retaliation for such cooperation with the United States. It is unsafe for political targets of the Taliban to be forced to return against their will. TPS protections must be maintained for Afghan nationals in the United States,” the lawmakers concluded.

    Read the full letter here.

    The first and only Latina senator, Senator Cortez Masto has consistently supported immigrant communities in Nevada, calling on both administrations to protect TPS holders and other immigrants, as well as leading commonsense legislation to fix our broken immigration system. Last month, the Senator helped introduce the SECURE Act to provide qualified TPS and DED recipients a path to legal permanent residency. She has worked to pass meaningful immigration reform that balances critical border security measures with a path to citizenship for Dreamers, TPS holders, and essential workers.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • Trump sets 19% tariff on Indonesia goods in latest deal, EU readies retaliation

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    President Donald Trump on Tuesday said the U.S. would impose a 19% tariff on goods from Indonesia under a new agreement with the Southeast Asian country and more deals were coming, while offering fresh details on planned duties on pharmaceuticals.

    Trump announced the pact with Indonesia, a relatively minor U.S. trading partner, as he continued to press for what he views as better terms with trading partners and ways to shrink a huge U.S. trade deficit. Letters setting tariff rates for dozens of smaller countries were also coming soon, he said on Tuesday.

    The deal with Indonesia is among the handful struck so far by the Trump administration ahead of an August 1 deadline when duties on most U.S. imports are due to rise again. The accord came as the top U.S. trading partner – the European Union – readied retaliatory measures should talks with Washington fail.

    As that deadline approached, negotiations were under way with other nations eager to avoid more U.S. levies beyond a baseline 10% on most goods that has been in place since April.

    Trump’s roll-out of the policies has often been chaotic. His moves have upended decades of negotiated reductions in global trade barriers, unsettling international financial markets and threatening a new wave of inflation.

    Based on Trump tariff announcements through Sunday, Yale Budget Lab estimated the U.S. effective average tariff rates will rise to 20.6% from between 2% and 3% before Trump’s return to the White House in January. Consumption shifts would bring the rate down to 19.7%, but it’s still the highest since 1933.

    Trump outlined an Indonesia deal similar to a preliminary pact struck recently with Vietnam, with a flat tariff on exports to the U.S. roughly double the current 10% and no levies on U.S. exports going there. It also included a penalty rate for so-called transhipments of goods from China via Indonesia and a commitment to buy some U.S. goods.

    “They are going to pay 19% and we are going to pay nothing … we will have full access into Indonesia, and we have a couple of those deals that are going to be announced,” Trump said outside the Oval Office. Trump later said on his Truth Social platform that Indonesia had agreed to buy $15 billion of U.S. energy products, $4.5 billion of American farm products and 50 Boeing BA.N jets, though no time frame was specified.

    He told reporters the deal with Vietnam was “pretty well set” but said it was not necessary to release details.

    TRUMP: INDIA TALKS MOVING SAME WAY

    Indonesia’s total trade with the U.S. – totalling just under $40 billion in 2024 – does not rank in the top 15, but it has been growing. U.S. exports to Indonesia rose 3.7% last year, while imports from there were up 4.8%, leaving the U.S. with a goods trade deficit of nearly $18 billion.

    The top U.S. import categories from Indonesia, according to U.S. Census Bureau data from the International Trade Centre’s TradeMap tool, last year were palm oil, electronics equipment including data routers and switches, footwear, car tires, natural rubber and frozen shrimp.

    Susiwijono Moegiarso, a senior official with Indonesia’s Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs, told Reuters in a text message: “We are preparing a joint statement between U.S. and Indonesia that will explain the size of reciprocal tariff for Indonesia including the tariff deal, non-tariff and commercial arrangements. We will inform (the public) soon.”

    Trump had threatened the country with a 32% tariff rate starting August 1 in a letter sent to its president last week. He sent similar letters to about two dozen trading partners this month, including Canada, Japan and Brazil, laying out tariff rates ranging from 20% to 50%, plus a 50% tariff on copper.

    Speaking in Pittsburgh on Tuesday, Trump said he favored blanket tariffs over complicated negotiations, but his Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick were keen to land more trade agreements.

    Upon his arrival back in Washington, Trump told reporters that letters would be going out soon for many smaller countries, suggesting they would face a tariff of “a little over 10%.”

    He said his administration would also announce tariffs on pharmaceuticals imported into the United States, probably at the end of the month, starting with what he called a low tariff rate to give companies time to move manufacturing to the U.S. before imposing a “very high tariff” in a year or so.

    The August 1 deadline gives targeted countries time to negotiate about lower tariff rates. Some economists have also noted Trump’s pattern of backing off his tariff threats.

    Since launching his tariff policy, Trump has clinched only a few “framework” agreements, falling short of earlier promises to land “90 deals in 90 days.”

    So far, such deals have been reached with the United Kingdom and Vietnam, and an interim deal has been struck with China to forestall the steepest of Trump’s tariffs while negotiations continue between Washington and Beijing.

    Trump said talks with India were moving “along that same line,” saying the agreement would give U.S. firms access to the large Indian market.

    EU READIES RETALIATION

    The breakthrough with Indonesia came as the European Commission, which oversees trade for the EU, prepared to target 72 billion euros ($84.1 billion) worth of U.S. goods – from Boeing BA.N aircraft and bourbon whiskey to cars – for possible tariffs if trade talks with Washington fail.

    Trump has threatened a 30% tariff on imports from the EU from August 1, a level European officials say is unacceptable and would end normal trade between two of the world’s largest markets.

    The list, sent to EU member states and seen by Reuters on Tuesday, pre-dated Trump’s move over the weekend to ramp up pressure on the 27-nation bloc and responded instead to U.S. duties on cars and car parts and a 10% baseline tariff.

    The package also covers chemicals, medical devices, electrical and precision equipment as well as agriculture and food products – a range of fruits and vegetables, along with wine, beer and spirits – valued at 6.35 billion euros.

    (Reuters)

  • India offers help to restore Satyajit Ray’s ancestral home in Bangladesh

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Indian government has expressed regret over the reported demolition of the ancestral house of iconic filmmaker and writer Satyajit Ray in Mymensingh, Bangladesh, and has offered its support for its restoration.

    In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said, “We note with profound regret that the ancestral property of noted filmmaker and litterateur Satyajit Ray in Mymensingh, Bangladesh, belonging to his grandfather and eminent litterateur, Upendra Kishor Ray Chowdhury, is being demolished.”

    The ministry confirmed India’s willingness to work with Bangladesh to repair and reconstruct the site, which is presently owned by the Bangladesh government and reportedly in a state of disrepair.

    Highlighting its cultural significance, India urged Bangladesh to reconsider any plans to demolish the building. “Given the building’s landmark status, symbolising the Bangla cultural renaissance, it would be preferable to reconsider the demolition and examine options for its repair and reconstruction as a museum of literature and a symbol of the shared culture of India and Bangladesh,” the MEA added.

    Satyajit Ray, born in Kolkata on May 2, 1921, is regarded as one of India’s most influential filmmakers. His acclaimed works include The Apu Trilogy, Pather Panchali, Jalsaghar, Charulata, Goopy Gyne Bagha Byne, and Shatranj Ke Khiladi. Ray was also an accomplished screenwriter, essayist, illustrator, magazine editor, and composer.

    Throughout his illustrious career, he received numerous accolades, including 32 Indian National Film Awards, international honours at major film festivals, and an Academy Honorary Award in 1992. That same year, he was awarded India’s highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna.

    (ANI)

  • ‘Severance,’ ‘The Penguin’ lead nominations for TV’s Emmy awards

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Psychological thriller “Severance” from Apple TV+ and HBO’s crime drama “The Penguin” stacked up the most nominations for Emmy Awards on Tuesday, outpacing “The Studio” and “The White Lotus” in the contest for television’s highest honors.

    “Severance” received a leading 27 nominations and was nominated for the top prize of best drama alongside Star Wars series “Andor,” “The Pitt,” “The White Lotus” and others.

    “The Penguin,” set in the DC Comics universe and starring Colin Farrell, earned 24 nominations and will compete for best limited series against Netflix NFLX.O hit “Adolescence,” among others.

    Hollywood satire “The Studio,” an Apple TV+ show featuring Seth Rogen as a nervous film executive, and HBO’s “The White Lotus,” about murder and misdeeds at a luxury resort in Thailand, received 23 each.

    “What the heck?!! We never thought this would happen,” Rogen said in a statement.

    Comedy nominees included defending champion “Hacks,” previous winner “The Bear,” “Nobody Wants This” and “Abbott Elementary.”

    The 23 nominations for “The Studio” tied the record for a comedy in a single season, set last year by Chicago restaurant tale “The Bear.”

    Winners of the Emmys will be announced at a red-carpet ceremony held in Los Angeles and broadcast live on CBS PARA.O on September 14. Comedian Nate Bargatze will host.

    The television industry is undergoing a contraction as media companies curtail the sky-high spending they shelled out to compete in the shift to streaming platforms led by Netflix.

    Longtime Emmy favorite HBO and the HBO Max streaming service topped all programmers with 142 nominations, a record for the network.

    Walt Disney DIS.N collected 137 nominations, including six for ABC’s “Abbott Elementary,” one of the few broadcast shows in the Emmy mix. “Andor,” on Disney+, received 14.

    Netflix garnered 120 nods and Apple scored 81, its highest total since launching its streaming service in 2019.

    “Severance” tells the story of office workers who undergo a procedure to make them forget their home life at work, and vice versa.

    “It’s distinctive in every way – in terms of its storytelling, in terms of style, in terms of its directing, its tone,” said Matt Cherniss, head of programming at Apple TV+.

    Star Adam Scott, a best actor nominee, said the cast had been unsure of how viewers would respond.

    “The fact that it’s resonated at all has been just such an incredible feeling,” Scott said. “We thought it was something that might be too weird.”

    WYLE, FORD IN THE RUNNING

    Noah Wyle received his first Emmy nomination since 1999 for his role as an emergency room doctor on “The Pitt.” Wyle was nominated five times for “ER” but never won.

    “I’m humbled and grateful,” Wyle said of the recognition for “The Pitt,” which received 13 total nominations.

    Harrison Ford, 83, earned his first Emmy nod, for playing a grumpy therapist on “Shrinking.”

    Ron Howard, the former “Happy Days” star turned Oscar-winning director, also landed his first acting nomination, a guest actor nod for playing himself on “The Studio.”

    “Who says nice guys finish last?!” Howard wrote on Instagram.

    He will compete with fellow director Martin Scorsese, another guest star on “The Studio.”

    Other notable acting nominees included Farrell and Cristin Milioti for “The Penguin,” “The Bear” actors Jeremy Allen White and Ayo Edebiri, Kathy Bates for “Matlock,” “Hacks” stars Jean Smart and Hannah Einbinder, and Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey for “The Last of Us.”

    Eight “White Lotus” actors were recognized.

    “This is a bunch of cherries on the icing on the cake that was the gift of playing such a tortured and lonely human,” said Jason Isaacs, who portrayed a suicidal father facing financial ruin on the show.

    Beyonce also made the Emmys list. Her halftime performance during a National Football League game on Netflix was nominated for best live variety special.

    Missing from the field was Netflix’s popular Korean drama, “Squid Game,” while the final season of previous drama winner “The Handmaid’s Tale” received just one nod.

    Winners will be chosen by the roughly 26,000 performers, directors, producers and other members of the Television Academy.

    (Reuters)

  • US opens probe into University of Michigan’s foreign funding

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The U.S. Education Department said on Tuesday it opened a foreign funding investigation into the University of Michigan while alleging it found “inaccurate and incomplete disclosures” in a review of the university’s foreign reports.

    As part of the investigation, the department asked the university to share, within 30 days, tax records related to foreign funding, a list of foreign gifts, grants, and contracts with any foreign source, and other documents, the department said in a statement and in a letter to the university.

    The University of Michigan will cooperate fully with federal investigators and it takes its responsibility to comply with the law seriously, it said in a statement.

    “We strongly condemn any actions that seek to cause harm, threaten national security or undermine the university’s critical public mission,” the statement said.

    The Education Department said the university’s research laboratories were “vulnerable to sabotage,” citing charges brought by the U.S. Justice Department against two Chinese nationals allegedly involving a University of Michigan lab.

    In June, U.S. federal prosecutors accused two Chinese nationals of smuggling into the U.S. a dangerous biological pathogen that they said had the potential to be used as an agricultural “terrorism weapon”.

    Zunyong Liu, 34, a Chinese researcher, is alleged to have brought the pathogen into the U.S. while visiting his girlfriend, Yunqing Jian, 33, in July 2024, according to an FBI complaint.

    The complaint said he admitted to smuggling in a fungus so he could conduct research on it at a University of Michigan laboratory where his girlfriend worked. However, experts have raised doubt about the FBI’s claim that the crop fungus smuggled was a threat.

    In its statement, the Education Department said the university has received $375 million in foreign funding since 2020 and was late in reporting $86 million of that amount. U.S. law requires universities to report donations from foreign sources exceeding $250,000 in a year.

    President Donald Trump’s administration has launched a widely condemned crackdown against top U.S. universities over a range of issues including pro-Palestinian campus protests against Israel’s war in Gaza, transgender rights, climate initiatives and diversity, equity and inclusion programs.

    Similar foreign funding probes were opened earlier at Harvard University, the University of Pennsylvania and the University of California, Berkeley.

    -Reuters

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Money Market Operations as on July 15, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India
    (Amount in ₹ crore, Rate in Per cent)
      Volume
    (One Leg)    		 Weighted
    Average Rate    		 Range
    A. Overnight Segment (I+II+III+IV) 6,06,180.02 5.32 3.00-6.25
         I. Call Money 16,248.43 5.38 4.75-5.50
         II. Triparty Repo 3,95,077.45 5.30 5.15-5.36
         III. Market Repo 1,92,544.59 5.37 3.00-5.65
         IV. Repo in Corporate Bond 2,309.55 5.49 5.46-6.25
    B. Term Segment      
         I. Notice Money** 169.50 5.31 5.05-5.45
         II. Term Money@@ 627.00 – 5.25-5.70
         III. Triparty Repo 1,465.00 5.32 5.30-5.40
         IV. Market Repo 340.12 5.21 3.25-5.50
         V. Repo in Corporate Bond 0.00 – –
      Auction Date Tenor (Days) Maturity Date Amount Current Rate /
    Cut off Rate
    C. Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF), Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) & Standing Deposit Facility (SDF)
    I. Today’s Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo Tue, 15/07/2025 3 Fri, 18/07/2025 57,450.00 5.49
    3. MSF# Tue, 15/07/2025 1 Wed, 16/07/2025 869.00 5.75
    4. SDFΔ# Tue, 15/07/2025 1 Wed, 16/07/2025 97,432.00 5.25
    5. Net liquidity injected from today’s operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*       -1,54,013.00  
    II. Outstanding Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo Fri, 11/07/2025 7 Fri, 18/07/2025 1,51,633.00 5.49
    3. MSF#          
    4. SDFΔ#          
    D. Standing Liquidity Facility (SLF) Availed from RBI$       5,880.78  
    E. Net liquidity injected from outstanding operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     -1,45,752.22  
    F. Net liquidity injected (outstanding including today’s operations) [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     -2,99,765.22  
    G. Cash Reserves Position of Scheduled Commercial Banks          
         (i) Cash balances with RBI as on July 15, 2025 9,94,173.57  
         (ii) Average daily cash reserve requirement for the fortnight ending July 25, 2025 9,63,288.00  
    H. Government of India Surplus Cash Balance Reckoned for Auction as on¥ July 15, 2025 0.00  
    I. Net durable liquidity [surplus (+)/deficit (-)] as on June 27, 2025 5,79,904.00  

    @ Based on Reserve Bank of India (RBI) / Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL).

    – Not Applicable / No Transaction.

    ** Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 2 to 14 days tenor.

    @@ Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 15 days to one year tenor.

    $ Includes refinance facilities extended by RBI.

    * Net liquidity is calculated as Repo+MSF+SLF-Reverse Repo-SDF.

    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    

    Press Release: 2025-2026/720

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Ukraine Should Not Attack Moscow – D. Trump

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    WASHINGTON, July 15 (Xinhua) — Ukraine should not strike Moscow, U.S. President Donald Trump said on Tuesday, media reported.

    “No, Kyiv should not target Moscow,” he told reporters on the South Lawn of the White House. Trump also said the U.S. “has no plans” to supply Ukraine with long-range missiles.

    When asked whether he was on Ukraine’s side, the head of the White House replied that he was on neither side.

    Let us recall that earlier the media reported that D. Trump called on Kyiv to launch strikes deep into Russian territory. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ9: Pilot Programme on Smart Recycling Systems

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by Dr the Hon Lo Wai-kwok and a written reply by the Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Mr Tse Chin-wan, in the Legislative Council today (July 16):
     
    Question:
     
         The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) has extended the Pilot Programme on Smart Recycling Systems (the Pilot Programme) starting from mid-2022 and gradually installed smart recycling bins and gift redemption units in some Recycling Stations and Recycling Stores since the end of that year. Starting from March 2023, smart recycling bins have also been progressively set up in housing estates, villages, shopping malls, universities, government venues, etc. The number of application points under the Pilot Programme has been increased from four locations in the initial phase to more than 800 locations at present. In addition, smart recycling bins support 24-hour operation and are equipped with sensors to enable recyclables collection service contractors (the contractors) to monitor the overflowing of recycling bins. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) given that some members of the public have relayed that they find from time to time that the smart recycling bins are overflowing, and despite their complaints, the follow-up actions taken by the authorities concerned have been slow, and they are often forced to take the recyclable items back home and thus reducing their incentives for recycling, of the respective numbers of such complaints received, number of cases with follow-up actions completed and average time taken to handle a complaint by the EPD in each month since March 2023;
     
    (2) whether the authorities have put in place a regular monitoring mechanism to assess and review the contractors’ handling of complaints about the overflowing of smart recycling bins as well as their general service performance, and require the contractors to make improvements within a specified period of time; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and
     
    (3) with the gradual increase in the number of smart recycling bins application points under the Pilot Programme, whether the authorities will allocate additional resources at the same time to step up inspections and random checks, thereby ensuring that the smart recycling systems can serve their functions; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) launched the Pilot Programme on Smart Recycling Systems (the Pilot Programme) in the fourth quarter of 2020, to test different smart recycling devices in phases, including smart recycling bins, smart balances and gift redemption units. As at end-June 2025, in addition to installing smart balances at all GREEN@COMMUNITY recycling facilities, the Pilot Programme has installed 159 sets of smart recycling bins at different locations across Hong Kong for testing, including GREEN@COMMUNITY facilities, public rental housing estates, private housing estates, villages, shopping malls, universities and government venues, for providing self-service recycling.
     
         The reply to the question raised by Dr the Hon Lo Wai-kwok is as follows:
     
    (1) The property management companies or cleaning companies of the premises concerned are responsible for the clearance of the smart recycling bins set up at respective locations, as well as arranging recyclers for collection and recycling of recyclables.
     
    Smart recycling bins are equipped with weight sensors and fill level sensors, featuring a dual alert mechanism. When the collected recyclables approach 80 per cent of the bin capacity limit, the system will automatically send a message to the relevant site staff of the venue. When a bin reaches its full capacity, the system will remind the property management company and/or cleaning contractor again for immediate action. Property management companies usually clear the collected recyclables regularly or shortly after receiving alert messages. The EPD also monitors the situation through the big data platform for timely follow-up actions. Data shows that the time which smart recycling bins was temporarily suspended due to overfilled bins accounts for about 7 per cent of the overall operating time of smart recycling bins. In addition, most premises with smart recycling bins are equipped with conventional recycling bins at the same time, which allow the public to place recyclables in these bins when the smart recycling bins are full.
     
    From March 2023 to end-June 2025, the number of complaints received by the EPD regarding overfilled smart recycling bins are provided in the table below. Upon receipt of each complaint, the EPD would follow up immediately and request the concerned property management company or cleaning contractor to empty the smart recycling bin and resume its functions as soon as possible. The EPD will continue to monitor the operation of smart recycling bins at all locations, and liaise with the concerned property management companies as needed for timely adjustments to the arrangements for clearance of recyclables.
     

    Month No. of complaint cases on overfilled smart recycling bins
    2023 2024  2025
    January N/A 7 3
    February 1 1
    March 0 0 0
    April 1 2 2
    May 0 0 4
    June 0 1 2
    July 0 3 N/A
    August 4 1
    September 2 4
    October 3 2
    November 2 1
    December 3 0
    Total 15 22 12

    (2) As mentioned above, smart recycling bins are equipped with weight sensors and fill level sensors, featuring a dual alert mechanism. When the collected recyclables approach 80 per cent of the bin capacity limit, the system will automatically send a message to the relevant site staff of the venue, who should arrange clearance as soon as possible upon receiving the message. We will review the arrangements for clearance of smart recycling bins and explore ways to further enhance clearance efficiency. In addition, we are arranging to test the addition of a compression function in smart recycling bins to enhance the recycling capacity so as to reduce the frequency of clearance required and further reduce the downtime of the bins due to being full, thereby improving the service quality.
     
    (3) The EPD’s service contracts require the contractors of smart recycling bins to provide operational monitoring data and arrange staff to conduct regular inspections to ensure proper operation of the devices. The EPD will also continue to monitor the usage of smart recycling bins and conduct inspections and spot checks from time to time to ensure that the contractors’ services meet the contract requirements. We will review the contract requirements and strengthen the performance indicators on maintenance services in the new contracts to enhance efficiency. With the increase in the number of application points, the EPD will deploy resources to step up inspections based on the actual situation, so that the entire smart recycling system can operate at its optimal level.
     
         On the other hand, to further enhance the operation and services of smart recycling devices, the EPD is actively preparing for introducing a new feature on displaying the real-time recycling status of smart recycling bins in the GREEN$ mobile app and the Hong Kong Waste Reduction Website, with a view to facilitating the public to plan for their recycling activities. This new feature is expected to be launched by the end of 2025.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Ripple’s XRP Mining Goes Live, PFMCrypto Launches XRP Mining via Cloud Platform—No Hardware, Instant Access

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, NY, July 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As Ripple’s XRP ecosystem accelerates globally, PFMCrypto proudly launches an innovative leap in decentralized finance: XRP-based smart cloud mining contracts. Now available via web and mobile platforms, these flexible short-term contracts enable users to mine XRP remotely—no equipment, no setup, no technical expertise required. For the first time, everyday users can actively participate in the XRP economy through a seamless, fully integrated platform.

    Visit the PFMCrypto website or download the mobile app to get started today.

    Simple, Smart, and Profitable—XRP Cloud Mining Has Arrived
    Long known for its speed and efficiency in cross-border payments, XRP now steps into the mining arena through PFMCrypto’s latest cloud-based innovation. Users can mine XRP directly, or let the platform’s AI engine optimize returns by switching to the most profitable assets, including BTC, ETH, DOGE, and USDC. Earnings are paid out daily in the crypto of your choice, offering stable returns no matter the market condition.
    Designed for both novice users and experienced investors, PFMCrypto empowers you to generate consistent crypto income from anywhere, at any time.

    Key Features of PFMCrypto’s XRP Cloud Mining Contracts:
    1. Complete XRP Integration – Deposit, buy, mine, and withdraw XRP—all within one ecosystem.
    2. Multi-Coin Mining Support – Mine and earn BTC, ETH, DOGE, USDC, USDT, SOL, LTC, and BCH.
    3. AI-Optimized Profitability – Smart algorithms automatically shift mining resources to top-performing assets.
    4. Fully Remote Mining – No need for mining rigs—accessible anytime via app or browser.
    5. Capital Protection – 100% principal return upon contract maturity helps safeguard your investment.

    Flexible Contracts for Every Budget and Strategy:
    PFMCrypto offers a wide selection of XRP-supported mining contracts, ideal for both short-term testers and long-term planners. Each contract features predictable earnings, clear terms, and built-in capital protection:
    $10 Contract – 1 Day – Earn $0.66 (Free with signup bonus)
    $100 Contract – 2 Days – Earn $3.00 daily + $2 reward
    $500 Contract – 5 Days – Earn $6.15 daily
    $5,000 Contract – 30 Days – Earn $78.50 daily
    $20,000 Contract – 45 Days – Earn $380.00 daily
    Whether you’re just starting out or building a diversified portfolio, PFMCrypto offers low-risk, high-transparency contracts designed to deliver reliable daily earnings in XRP.

    Click here to explore more mining contracts.

    What Makes PFMCrypto’s XRP Mining Unique?
    1. Truly Accessible – No mining rigs, no technical barriers—just sign up and start earning.
    2. XRP-Native Functionality – Manage your entire XRP experience in one unified platform.
    3. Stable Returns with Smart Allocation – The AI engine ensures optimal returns across supported crypto assets.
    4. Multi-Asset Flexibility – Mine XRP or diversify payouts into BTC, ETH, and others—all from a single contract.
    5. Instant Access, Anywhere – Securely mine from your phone or browser, wherever you are in the world.

    Start in 3 Simple Steps:
    1. Sign Up – Create your account and get a $10 welcome bonus
    2. Choose a Contract – Pick from short or long-term options (1 to 60 days)
    3. Start Earning – Monitor your daily returns and withdraw in your preferred crypto

    Start mining XRP now at: https://pfmcrypto.net 
    Or download the PFMCrypto mobile app for iOS and Android.

    Mining XRP for a Smarter Digital Future:
    Since 2018, PFMCrypto has helped millions of users generate passive crypto income through advanced, cloud-based mining systems. With the addition of XRP mining, the platform now combines institutional-grade infrastructure with user-friendly design, opening up new opportunities for retail investors to earn in XRP or diversify into major digital assets—all through one secure, remote solution.

    “XRP has always been fast, scalable, and efficient,” said a PFMCrypto spokesperson. “Now, it’s mineable—safely, remotely, and profitably. We’ve eliminated the barriers so anyone can participate in XRP’s future.”
    Markets fluctuate—but daily mining income stays consistent.

    Join the XRP mining revolution today at: https://pfmcrypto.net 

    The MIL Network –

  • Trump says Zelenskiy should not target Moscow

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    U.S. President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy should not target Moscow and that Russian President Vladimir Putin should agree to a ceasefire deal by a 50-day deadline or sanctions will kick in.

    His comments came after The Financial Times, citing people briefed on discussions, reported on Tuesday that Trump had privately encouraged Ukraine to step up deep strikes on Russia.

    The newspaper said that Trump asked Zelenskiy whether he could strike Moscow if the U.S. provided long-range weapons.

    “No, he shouldn’t target Moscow,” Trump told reporters on the South Lawn of the White House when asked if Zelenskiy should attack the Russian capital.

    Trump on Monday announced a toughened stance against Russia for its three-year-old war in Ukraine, promising a fresh wave of missiles and other weaponry for Ukraine. He gave Moscow 50 days to reach a ceasefire or face sanctions.

    The announcement set off a scramble among European officials to figure out how to make Trump‘s plan work and ensure Ukraine gets the weapons it needs.

    Later on Tuesday, Trump told reporters that some of the Patriot missiles are already on their way to Ukraine.

    “They’re coming in from Germany,” he said.

    Trump said he had not yet spoken to Putin in the wake of his announcement, but said it might not take 50 days to make a deal.

    Asked earlier if he was now on the side of Ukraine, Trump said, “I am on nobody’s side,” and then declared he was on “humanity’s side” because “I want to stop the killing.”

    Trump defended the deadline he set for Russia to agree to a deal and head off tariffs and sanctions on countries that buy oil from Russia.

    He did not say whether any talks were planned to try to work out a deal with Russia.

    “At the end of the 50 days if we don’t have a deal, it’s going to be too bad,” he said.

    (Reuters)

  • AIDS program funding preserved ahead of US Senate vote on Trump cuts

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The U.S. Senate late on Tuesday advanced President Donald Trump’s request to slash billions in spending on foreign aid and public broadcasting previously approved by Congress, the latest test of Trump’s control over his fellow Republicans.

    However, PEPFAR, a global program to fight HIV/AIDS launched in 2003 by then-Republican President George W. Bush, is being exempted after objections from lawmakers in both parties, bringing the size of the package of cuts to $9 billion from $9.4 billion.

    Russell Vought, director of the Office of Management and Budget, told reporters after lunch with Republican senators that Trump could accept a change in the measure to exempt PEPFAR.

    “There is a substitute amendment that does not include the PEPFAR rescission and we’re fine with that,” Vought said.

    In initial votes on Tuesday, Republicans narrowly fended off solid Democratic opposition and cleared the bill over two procedural hurdles. Vice President JD Vance was needed to break a 50-50 tie in each of those tallies.

    Further votes were expected this week.

    Congress has until Friday to pass the rescissions package, originally a request to claw back $8.3 billion in foreign aid funding and $1.1 billion for public broadcasting. Otherwise, the request would expire and the White House will be required to adhere to spending plans passed by Congress.

    Three of the Senate’s 53 Republicans voted against moving the legislation closer to passage – Senators Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, Mitch McConnell of Kentucky and Susan Collins of Maine.

    “You don’t need to gut the entire Corporation for Public Broadcasting,” Senator Lisa Murkowski, an Alaska moderate, said in a Senate speech.

    She said the Trump administration also had not provided assurances that battles against diseases such as malaria and polio worldwide would be maintained, along with programs including family planning and pandemic prevention. But most of all, Murkowski said, Congress must assert its role in deciding how federal funds were spent.

    If the Senate passes the bill without the PEPFAR cuts, the measure must go back to the House of Representatives for a vote before it can be sent to the White House for Trump to sign into law. Senate Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota, a Republican, said he expected the House would act quickly to pass the measure.

    The amounts at stake are extremely small in the context of the sprawling federal budget, which totaled $6.8 trillion in the fiscal year ended September 30. Yet the proposed cuts have raised the hackles of Democrats and a handful of Republicans who saw an attempt to erode Congress’s constitutionally mandated authority over spending.

    They also represent only a tiny portion of all of the funds approved by Congress that the Trump administration has held up as it has pursued sweeping cuts to the federal government, including slashing thousands of jobs.

    As of mid-June, Trump was blocking $425 billion in such funds, according to Democratic lawmakers tracking frozen funding.

    LIFESAVING PROGRAMS

    The foreign aid initiatives in Trump’s request for cuts included lifesaving support for women and children’s health and the fight against HIV/AIDS that have long had strong bipartisan support. PEPFAR is credited with saving 26 million lives.

    The package also cuts funds supporting public broadcasting, which can be the main source of news and emergency information in rural parts of the U.S. Senator Mike Rounds, a South Dakota Republican, was concerned about funding cuts to Native American radio stations, but said on Tuesday he would support the rescissions package after the administration promised to fund some tribal broadcasters separately.

    Democrats also have said the U.S. withdrawal of “soft power” efforts from the international stage, such as limited emergency assistance after an earthquake in Myanmar, strengthens global adversaries like Russia and China.

    “It still leaves an enormous vacuum that China and Russia will fill,” Senator Charles Schumer of New York, the chamber’s Democratic leader, said.

    Senator Susan Collins of Maine, who chairs the Appropriations Committee, had said she opposed Trump’s request to cut the PEPFAR funding. After the lunch meeting with Vought, she said she still wanted detailed information about the proposals.

    FUNDING POWER

    Standalone presidential rescissions packages have not passed in years, with lawmakers reluctant to cede their constitutionally mandated control of government spending. During Trump’s first term in 2018, Congress members rejected Trump’s request to revoke $15 billion in spending.

    Trump’s Republicans hold narrow majorities in the Senate and House. So far, they have shown little appetite for opposing his policies.

    The rescissions legislation passed the House by 214-212 last month. Four Republicans joined 208 Democrats in voting against it.

    These cuts would overturn bipartisan spending agreements most recently passed in a full-year stopgap funding bill in March. Democrats warn a partisan cut now could make it more difficult to negotiate government funding bills that must pass by September 30 to avoid a shutdown.

    Appropriations bills require 60 votes to move ahead in the Senate, but the rescissions package needs just 51, meaning Republicans can pass it without Democratic support.

    “We’re going to have to work our way through that issue,” Rounds said on Tuesday, adding he felt confident Trump’s budget office would follow funding guidelines to redirect dollars to tribal media stations.

    [REUTERS]

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ16: Mobile applications to assist with travel for persons with disabilities

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Andrew Lam and a written reply by the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Chris Sun, in the Legislative Council today (July 16):
     
    Question:
     
         Regarding mobile applications to assist with travel for persons with disabilities (PWDs), will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) which funded projects under the current government funding schemes for software and application development are related to assistance with barrier-free travel for PWDs (set out in a table);
     
    (2) of the Government’s plans (e.g. provision of funding support) in place to integrate, enhance and link up existing mobile applications that assist with barrier-free travel for PWDs, so as to optimise the use of resources and enable such applications to more effectively serve PWDs; and
     
    (3) given that since 2020 the Lands Department has been developing a set of 3D Digital Map with functions including provision of barrier-‍free route planning for people with different commuting needs, how the Government promotes the best use of such digital map among the public and private sectors and identifies access points in need of improvement, so as to lay down a foundation for future improvement and update of the relevant software and hardware (e.g. the relevant mobile applications and barrier-free facilities)?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         The Government is committed to providing appropriate support and assistance to persons with disabilities in need so as to facilitate their travel and help them fully integrate into the community. Having consulted the relevant bureaux, I set out below a consolidated reply to the Member’s question –
     
    (1) Both the Smart Traffic Fund and the Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development Fund set up by the Government have provided funding for projects that assist barrier-free travel for persons with disabilities. Information on the relevant projects is at Annexes 1 and 2 respectively.
     
    (2) Regarding the mobile applications developed by the Government, the Digital Policy Office has promulgated the “Practice Guide for Developing Mobile Apps”, requiring bureaux/departments (B/Ds) to conduct regular reviews after launching mobile applications, and to update and consolidate existing mobile applications in a cost-effective manner.
     
         For instance, in 2016, the Lands Department (LandsD) launched a mobile application “VoiceMapHK”, which is specifically designed for the visually impaired, providing audio output that reads out information about nearby locations on the map. The visually impaired can also make use of the voice function of their mobile phones to issue commands, and the application will respond by reading out the corresponding results. To optimise the use of resources, the LandsD plans to integrate the functionalities of the “VoiceMapHK” into the GeoInfo Map, another map application under its management. With the launch of the “iAM Smart” mini-program platform later this year, all B/Ds must consider to prioritise migrating their mobile applications or integrating the core functions into the “iAM Smart” platform, so that members of the public can easily access the required application services without the need to download additional applications, thereby enhancing the consolidation of Government mobile applications.
     
         In addition, in 2021, the Development Bureau (DEVB), with the support of various non-governmental organisations, the MTR Corporation Limited and some iconic shopping malls in Kowloon East, developed a “Smart Navigation Tool for The Visually Impaired/People in Need” Proof-of-Concept, providing barrier-free navigation experience. This tool utilises indoor maps to provide indoor and outdoor seamless navigation, which helps users easily navigate and interact with the environment, and increases their independence and mobility. In January 2023, this tool was incorporated into the “MyKE” mobile application as the “Walking Assistant” function. The DEVB will continue to explore scaling up this Proof-of-Concept to cover more areas, so as to enable those in need to commute more freely.
     
         In response to the recommendations of the Equal Opportunities Commission on enhancing the overall accessibility of Hong Kong, the Transport Department has also enhanced the function of accessible route option of the mobile application HKeMobility since April 2024 by expanding the accessible route option from walking mode to public transport mode. When members of the public choose to travel by public transport, the HKeMobility can plan routes with visual aids or mobility aids to enable the public to identify barrier-free accesses (such as locations of lifts, ramps and footbridges) along the way to transport stations, so that persons with disabilities can plan their journeys more efficiently and travel on their own.
     
         In addition, the Hong Kong Observatory (HKO) has been actively pursuing web accessibility design over the years. The HKO’s in-house developed mobile application “MyObservatory” has already incorporated guidelines on accessibility features and functions, including screen reader compatibility, alternative texts for images and selectable font size, so as to facilitate all sectors of the community (including persons with disabilities) to browse the “MyObservatory” to get the latest weather conditions before traveling. The HKO will continue to incorporate accessibility features and functions in the mobile application, providing enhanced weather services.
     
    (3) The LandsD and the Spatial Data Office (SDO) of the DEVB have been promoting the application of 3D Digital Map to public and private organisations through various channels (such as public talks and workshops), to highlight the development opportunities it brings. As a key component of the 3D Digital Map, the 3D Pedestrian Network provides a wealth of useful information, such as road names, gradient and length of road sections, distribution of en-route obstacles and opening hours of public lifts, as well as wheelchair accessibility data at entrance to government facilities and public lifts. This enables barrier-free route planning for people with different commuting needs. The LandsD and the SDO of the DEVB will continue to engage with various stakeholders (including social welfare organisations and groups serving persons with disabilities), communicate with relevant public and private organisations based on stakeholder needs, promote cross-agency information exchange and collaboration, and jointly optimise the 3D Pedestrian Network to enhance the convenience of public mobility.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Kabosu Launches on Ethereum: A New Meme Token Experiment With Built-In Volatility

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FRAMINGHAM, Mass., July 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — A new experiment in Ethereum’s meme token space has officially launched with Kabosu, a community-driven project aiming to revive playful crypto culture on the world’s largest smart contract platform.

    While Ethereum has often been associated with serious, utility-driven projects, Kabosu brings back the element of fun by introducing a token built around mathematical volatility and community engagement. Its launch arrives at a time when Ethereum’s scalability and reduced transaction fees have made the network more accessible for creative, lightweight token experiments.

    Designed for Volatility, Not Financial Gain

    Kabosu operates using a low-liquidity model that intentionally amplifies price movement. Built on the constant product formula used by most decentralized exchanges (x * y = k), the token’s architecture embraces the inverse-square relationship between token supply and price. This makes for a highly reactive trading environment—where each buy or sell has a significant impact.

    This design isn’t intended for financial speculation or investment advice. Instead, Kabosu presents itself as a tokenized entertainment experience that blends mathematics with internet-native humor. It taps into Ethereum’s open and permissionless structure to provide an experimental playground for users who enjoy unpredictability and community dynamics.

    More Than Just a Token

    According to developers, Kabosu is a project initiated by The Society — a pseudonymous group focused on blockchain experiments at the intersection of math, culture, and decentralized participation.

    “This isn’t about promises or profits. Kabosu is a reflection of Ethereum’s original ethos — a place to build, experiment, and have fun together,” the team shared.

    Technical Information

    • Contract Address: 0xd86571bfb6753c252764c4ae37fd54888774d32e
    • Dextools Pair Explorer: https://kabosu.com/

    About The Society

    The Society is a decentralized collective exploring experimental blockchain use cases. Their work focuses on pushing the boundaries of community interaction and technical design on public ledgers.

    Media Contact:

    Peter Benjamin

    Peter@kabosu.com

    Website: kabosu.com

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by Kabosu. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector–including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining–complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: NSU scientists create a new type of endoscopic system for diagnostics and destruction of cancer cells

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Novosibirsk State University –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The results of the Russian Science Foundation mega-grant competition for fundamental scientific research and exploratory scientific research under the supervision of leading foreign scientists have been summed up. 230 projects from 127 scientific organizations from 35 subjects of the Russian Federation applied for RSF support. The projects submitted for the competition are being implemented under the supervision of leading scientists with citizenship from 40 countries, including China, India, Iran, Belarus, Kazakhstan, the USA, Italy, and France. According to the results of the examination, 14 projects were declared winners. For 5 years, they will receive from 20 to 50 million rubles annually. If necessary, it is envisaged to extend the grant support for another three years.

    Among the winners is the project of scientists from the Laboratory of Nonlinear Optics of Waveguide Systems of Novosibirsk State University “The Kerr Self-Cleaning Effect of Multimode Beams in Specialized Optical Fibers and Its Application for Biomedicine”. This laboratory was created in May 2017 as a result of the victory of the project “Spatio-temporal Nonlinear Optics of Multimode and Multi-Core Fiber Systems” in the fifth competition of the Ministry of Education and Science of Russia for receiving grants from the Government of the Russian Federation for state support of scientific research conducted under the supervision of leading scientists. Its head is a recognized world expert in the theory of surface waves, as well as an expert in nonlinear effects in fiber-optic communication systems Stefan Wabnitz. His research activity for more than 30 years took place in leading academic and industrial institutions in Europe and the USA.

    — Our project is aimed at creating an innovative endoscopic device that combines optical biopsy and low-temperature plasma therapy technologies. Its goal is to develop a unified system that provides the ability to both diagnose and treat gastrointestinal diseases, including oncological diseases, in real time, which will eliminate the need for lengthy histopathology and increase the accuracy of examinations. This device will combine two functions at once — diagnostics (using machine learning) and therapy (laser/plasma), minimizing damage to healthy tissues, — said Denis Kharenko, senior researcher at the laboratory.

    In current medical practices, ex vivo histopathology is used for accurate cancer diagnostics, during which laboratory studies of living tissue transferred from the body to an artificial external environment are carried out. It involves taking tissue from the patient, which leads to delays in the start of therapy and requires complex laboratory procedures and practically does not allow observing the course of the disease in dynamics. NSU scientists propose to solve this problem by introducing in-vivo diagnostics, which allows examining the body without taking material using optical endoscopic methods. It is important that this diagnostic method will be associated with the possibility of therapeutic intervention, which will not only significantly increase the area under study and the volume of data obtained, but also accurately identify the affected area during repeated examination, minimizing time and economic costs, as well as the risks of errors associated with the analysis of samples outside the body.

    — The new type of endoscopic system we are creating, in addition to diagnostics, will be able to precisely affect tumor cells using temperature-controlled laser radiation and low-temperature plasma, causing their apoptosis without excessive heating — a process of programmed cell death, in which the cell self-destructs, disintegrating into individual fragments, which are then absorbed by other cells without causing negative consequences. This leads to minimal damage to healthy tissue. This feature will reduce side effects, avoid fibrosis and vascular damage, which is extremely important for improving the quality of life of patients. The project is a significant step forward in the field of “optical biopsy” and endoscopic therapy, — explained Denis Kharenko.

    One of the main scientific tasks of the scientists will be to optimize the process of diagnostics and treatment of cancer using a multimode optical fiber, which implements the Kerr self-cleaning effect, providing high resolution (up to 0.66 µm) and resistance to mechanical impacts during the propagation of laser radiation. The integration of multiphoton fluorescence and Raman scattering will further expand the diagnostic capabilities of the device, allowing for spectroscopic studies of tissues and the detection of biomarkers characteristic of different stages of the disease with microscopic accuracy. According to the project participants, this technology will make the device a universal tool for both diagnostics and subsequent treatment.

    The project involves several stages. First, the scientists will design and test multimode fibers and high-repetition-rate lasers for the endoscopic system. The next step will be to test the device on biological samples, including lab-created organoids and cancerous tissue.

    — We are confident that our experimental setup with the ability to precisely control low-temperature plasma will allow localized impact on the affected areas of organs and tissues, which will create the basis for the application of the technology in clinical practice. We intend to create a flexible and highly effective visualization and therapy system, which will subsequently become established as a standard in the field of diagnostics and treatment of gastrointestinal diseases, including oncological diseases in the early stages, — said Denis Kharenko.

    Material prepared by: Elena Panfilo, NSU press service

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ20: Preventing child abuse

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Maggie Chan and a written reply by the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Chris Sun, in the Legislative Council today (July 16):

    Question:

         It has been reported that Hong Kong has recently witnessed a series of shocking cases of child abuse, including a recent incident where a deliveryman repeatedly abused his biological daughter, leading to her death. The defendant was ultimately convicted of murder and sentenced to life imprisonment, and he was sentenced to imprisonment of six years and five months for his child abuse offence. There are views that as the current maximum penalty of child abuse is only ten years, it fails to fully reflect its severity and effectively prevent child abuse from taking place, and, given that Hong Kong has seen cases of child abuse resulting in death in the past, it is imperative for the authorities to significantly increase the maximum penalty for child abuse offence, so as to enhance deterrence and protect children. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

    (1) of the following information regarding child abuse cases successfully prosecuted by the authorities last year: (i) number of cases, (ii) date of prosecution, (iii) date of sentence, (iv) whether the perpetrator was a direct relative of the victim, (v) whether the abuse resulted in the death of or grievous bodily harm to the child, and (vi) term of imprisonment in cases where imprisonment was imposed; and

    (2) whether it has plans to review relevant legislation to increase the maximum penalty for child abuse offence; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?

    Reply:

    President,

         The Government has been adopting a multi-pronged strategy to protect children from harm or abuse. Apart from identifying and intervening in child abuse cases at an early stage to protect children, the Government also supports families at risk of child abuse to prevent child abuse at source. The consolidated reply to the Member’s question, in consultation with Security Bureau, is as follows:

         At present, there are many pieces of legislation in place that protect children from harm and abuse, including the Offences against the Person Ordinance (Cap. 212), the Crimes Ordinance (Cap. 200), the Prevention of Child Pornography Ordinance (Cap. 579) and the Protection of Children and Juveniles Ordinance (Cap. 213).

         Section 26 of the Offences against the Person Ordinance (Cap. 212) provides that any person who unlawfully abandons or exposes a child under the age of 2 years, whereby the life of such child is endangered, or the health of such child is or is likely to be permanently injured, shall be guilty of an offence; and section 27 provides that any person over the age of 16 years who wilfully assaults, ill-treats, neglects, abandons or exposes any child or young person under the age of 16 years under the person’s custody, charge or care in a manner likely to cause such child or young person unnecessary suffering or injury to his health shall be guilty of an offence. Among the cases concluded in 2024, the number of persons prosecuted and convicted under the two above-mentioned provisions, as well as the sentences for the persons convicted are at Annex. The Security Bureau does not maintain information about the relationship between the defendant and the victim, and the statistics of the death or severe bodily harm caused in the aforementioned cases.

         The Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse Ordinance (the Ordinance) will come into effect in January 2026. To strengthen early identification and intervention of child abuse cases, the Ordinance mandates specified professionals in the social welfare sector, education sector and healthcare sector to report serious child abuse cases, thereby creating a wide and effective protection web for children and sending a strong deterrent to potential perpetrators that their abuse behaviours will easily be exposed. To tie in with the commencement of the Ordinance, the Government launched the Child Protection Campaign in January this year to enhance the mandated reporters and the general public’s understanding of the Ordinance and raise their awareness of child protection. In addition, to strengthen prevention of child abuse from source, the Social Welfare Department (SWD) will convert four Children and Youth Centres into Community Parents and Children Centres on a pilot basis to promote parent-child interaction through play-based services and instil positive parenting skills in parents, render support for families with parenting needs, and refer families with other needs to appropriate government and community services. Through home visits and referrals from healthcare or welfare service units, the SWD will approach families of socio-economic deprivation and provide them with further support via in-depth casework and group work, including therapeutic counselling and systematic and tailor-made group programmes.

         The implementation of the mandatory reporting regime and the setting up of Community Parents and Children Centres mark an important milestone in child protection. The Government will continue to ensure that the various support measures are properly put in place, and will monitor the effectiveness of the above measures after their implementation to consider how to further enhance child protection work, including the need to increase the maximum penalties for child abuse offences.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Transcript – Sunrise with Monique Wright and Matt Shirvington

    Source: Murray Darling Basin Authority

    MONIQUE WRIGHT: Well, hundreds more families are living a nightmare this morning after police identified an additional four child care centres where alleged paedophile Joshua Dale Brown worked. It brings the total number of affected families to more than 3,000, with 2,000 children advised to undergo screening.

    MATT SHIRVINGTON: The devastating news comes almost two weeks after the Federal Education Minister promised to take action to make child care safer.

    [Excerpt starts]

    JASON CLARE, MINISTER FOR EDUCATION: The implementation of those reforms has taken too bloody long. But this is serious, and I’m determined to act.

    [Excerpt ends]

    SHIRVINGTON: And Education Minister Jason Clare joins us now this morning. First and foremost, a family man yourself. So, we need to talk about, obviously, the emotional side of this. More child care centres have been impacted by this, even overnight. Thousands now, families have been contacted. Thousands of kids are going and getting blood tests, toddlers, preschoolers, to see if they’ve got STIs. It is not ok. You were here two weeks ago. Tell me you have some answers for us?

    CLARE: You just used the word nightmare. That’s the right word. More parents are being put through the wringer. All the fear and anxiety that their kids might be sick, and all the trauma that kids have to go through. It’s not just blood tests, it’s urine tests as well. The company should have picked this up in the first place where this worker was. The Victorian Government and authorities are doing everything they can to track the details of where he worked. But this highlights an example of why you need a database or a register, so you know where all child care workers are and where they’re moving from centre to centre. That’s just one of the things that we need to do.

    Parliament starts again next week. I’ll introduce legislation next week that will cut off funding to child care centres that aren’t up to scratch, that aren’t meeting the sort of safety standards that parents expect and that our kids deserve.

    WRIGHT: Ok, let’s talk a little bit more about that legislation in a moment. But just in terms of this investigation, this is hugely cumbersome. They’ve had to get, police have had to get warrants to go into individual centres to just get handwritten rosters that are clearly wrong. The onus seems to be on the parents to get in contact with the Department and say, hang on, you said he worked here on these dates? I remember he was there at Halloween. He was there on all these other days. It feels like an absolute mess.

    CLARE: Absolutely. You should be able to press a button and know exactly where he was when he was working. This is a live investigation, so let’s park this individual case. We should have a system that tells us where all workers are, which centres they’re working at, whether they’re crossing individual borders.

    WRIGHT: What’s your Department telling you about the time frame on getting that centralised system?

    CLARE: What the Victorian Government has said is that they can set something like that up within the next couple of months. They can do that by expanding the existing register that exists for schoolteachers. And all states and territories have agreed that we need a national database like this and that we need to speed up the development of it. That work’s going on right now between the states, the territories and the Commonwealth.

    SHIRVINGTON: Yeah, absolutely. And of course, all of those brilliant child care workers that are out there that are doing the right thing as well, I think it’s going to cover them, too.

    CLARE: Can I just touch on that? Because everybody that’s about to take their kids to child care this morning knows how fantastic the workers at their centre that looks after their children are, and they trust their most precious people in the world with those carers. 99.9 per cent of the people who work in our centres are fantastic people who love our kids, care for our kids, educate our kids. One of the things we need to do here is help to arm them with mandatory child safety training so they can identify the bad 0.1 per cent that might be up to no good.

    SHIRVINGTON: That’s right. Let’s talk about this new legislation, because taking funding away is one thing. The problem is, though, 92 per cent, so you’re talking about around 18,000 child care centres across Australia, 92 per cent are either working towards standard or are at standard or above standard. OK. So, there’s 8 per cent, potentially 1500 almost, centres that are either have not been reviewed.

    CLARE: That are not meeting the standard, that’s right.

    SHIRVINGTON. So, that’s a lot of work for you. One, you’ve got to get the legislation through, then you’ve got to go through 1500 child care centres that are active right now.

    CLARE: There’s been great support by the Opposition. I think Sussan Ley was on the program a couple of days ago, and we’re working really constructively with the Opposition to get this legislation through, and I thank them for that. 

    If this legislation works the way we want it to work, it won’t mean shutting centres down, it’ll mean lifting standards up. The really big weapon that we have to wield here is money. We spend about $16 billion dollars of taxpayers’ money on running child care centres across the country. They can’t run without this funding. It represents about 70 per cent of the funding to operate a child care centre. So, the threat is, unless you get up to that standard, we cut the funding off. And I think if we get this right, what it means is that centres will quickly raise their standards to provide the sort of quality and safety that our kids need and deserve.

    WRIGHT: Ok, I’m wondering what else you have learnt that needs to change in the two weeks since we’ve had you on the program. So, one of them is that mandatory training for all child care workers, as you just detailed, so that they know what to look out for. Who pays for that?

    CLARE: I think the Commonwealth Government and states and territories are going to need to chip in, but potentially providers as well. It’s all hands on deck here.

    WRIGHT: Then there’s this centralised data system so that any potential threat, person, problem cannot keep going between centres. What else? What else have you learnt that needs to change so that this doesn’t happen again?

    CLARE: The other one’s CCTV, and we’ve seen some of the big providers, like Goodstart, already say that they’re going to roll that out. It can provide two things. One, deter bad people from acting badly in our centres, but also help police with their investigations when the worst happens.

    WRIGHT: Ok. And then there’s the phones as well for child care.

    CLARE: Yeah, we’ve already taken action. Yep, that’s right. But becomes mandatory in September. We did that for a reason. The paedophile that was arrested and convicted in Queensland was using his phone to take photographs of children in centres. One of the things we need to do here, if we’re serious, is get personal phones out of child care centres.

    SHIRVINGTON: Sounds like they almost need to wear body cams, which is, you know, we don’t even want to go down that road. I wanted to ask you, too. You spoke about the child care workers and sending a message to them, and parents dropping off kids. This morning, a lot of parents we’re hearing reported that they’re taking their kids out of centres with male carers. What do you say to the male carers in the system at the moment today who are going to care for these kids?

    CLARE: There’s a lot of men who work in our centres that feel like they’ve got a target on their back at the moment, and things are really tough for them. What I would say here is that just targeting blokes is not the solution. If we go back and have a look at examples of abuse and neglect in our centres, it’s not just men, it’s women as well. 

    We’ve had Royal Commissions. I’ve conducted a child safety review. All the recommendations here aren’t about targeting the blokes per se. It’s about the sort of things we’re talking about this morning, training up our workers to identify bad people in our centres. It’s about a national register to track people across the country and across the system. And it’s things like CCTV, but not just that. It’s also about making the penalties real when child care centres fail. They’re not serious at the moment, and also making sure that we give better information to parents. You should be able to walk into a centre today and there be a sign at the front door that tells you whether that centre is up to scratch or not.

    WRIGHT: Yeah. Look for anybody who has heard these allegations. It’s one of the worst things we’ve ever heard for anybody. And for a lot of people, they don’t have a choice. They need to send their kids to child care centres. But once you’ve got your children at a good centre, which is safe, the benefits are enormous for young kids.

    CLARE: I know that. You know, my little guy’s there five days a week. It’s an essential service for mums and dads. It helps you to be able to go back to work and earn a living, and put money on the table. But it’s good for our kids, to prepare our kids for school. If you ask your teacher at your local primary school, they’ll tell you. They can tell the kids that have been to child care and the ones that haven’t, because they’re ready to learn. 

    But number one, it’s got to be safe, and we’ve got more work to do on that. I’ve been pretty blunt. We’ve done some things. More needs to be done, and it needs to be done faster. 

    SHIRVINGTON: Keep fighting. I’m not going to, with respect, call you Minister today. I’m going to call you Jason. You’re a dad. Appreciate you coming on.

    CLARE: Thanks, mate.

    SHIRVINGTON: Thank you.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Delivering new early childhood education service to Napranum

    Source: Murray Darling Basin Authority

    A community-run early childhood education and care service in Napranum is providing local families with greater flexibility and access to high quality early childhood education and care.

    Early education gives children the best start in life, and we want every to have access to quality early education and its transformative benefits.

    The Napranum Early Childhood Centre combined their former daycare and kindergarten services into an integrated centre on 23 June 2025.

    The integrated centre follows more than two years of dedicated work from the community, led by the Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council and Napranum Early Childhood Centre, and supported by the Department of Education and SNAICC – National Voice for our Children.

    The Napranum Early Childhood Centre service was funded in 2021 as part of an almost $30 million expansion of the Australian Government’s Community Child Care Fund Restricted Program, which funds the establishment of sites run by mainly First Nations led organisations.

    This is another example of the Albanese Government’s commitment to the Closing the Gap National Agreement, in particular increasing the role of Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations.

    SNAICC, the national peak body for Indigenous children, is the community partner for these sites, supporting their establishment and the implementation of community-led and culturally safe early childhood education and care.

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Early Childhood Education Senator Dr Jess Walsh:

    “The integrated Napranum Early Childhood Centre opening is a fantastic outcome for First Nations children and families in Napranum, providing greater access for children in the community who need it most.

    “Every child should benefit from access to quality and culturally safe early childhood education and care, including in remote regional communities in Queensland.

    “That’s why the Australian Government is investing in our regional and remote communities through programs like the Community Child Care Fund.

    “More families access to quality early childhood education and care in areas where it is needed most. And that’s why our Government is investing $500 million over four years to deliver just that.”

    Quotes attributable to Member for Leichardt, Matt Smith MP:

    “This is a great outcome for Napranum, being the only Early Childcare Centre in the community. This will not only save families from having to travel to Weipa to access childcare but also take pressure off the already long waiting list Weipa has. 
    We know the first five years of a child’s life if where they learn, develop and begin to shape their future so giving the children and families of Napranum the opportunity to access childcare, is fantastic for everyone.”
     

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Mozambique: Increasing violence is severely compromising access to healthcare in Cabo Delgado – MSF

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF)

    Pemba, 16 July 2025 – As Cabo Delgado experiences an alarming rise in violence, access to healthcare for communities in vulnerable circumstances is being severely compromised.

    Nearly eight years of conflict in northern Mozambique has already taken a huge toll on people living in the province, where more than 400,000 people are displaced. Fighting and insecurity have led to the forced reduction of medical activities and have limited the movements of health workers and the communities in the affected areas. Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF) is calling for the protection of medical workers and health facilities from violence, and to ensure a coordinated humanitarian response in places experiencing a surge of needs due to the arrival of displaced people.

    To date in 2025, 43,000 people have been displaced following attacks and violent incidents. Over 134,000 people were affected by violence in May alone, according to an OCHA report. This is the most significant rise in violence since June 2022. Many of these recent violent incidents took place in the district of Macomia, Mocímboa da Praia, Muidumbe and Meluco, and even spread to neighbouring Niassa province.

    Macomia, a major town in central Cabo Delgado, was attacked by a non-state armed group in May 2024, forcing MSF, as well as other humanitarian organizations, to stop or suspend activities. We were gradually able to resume operations in April 2025. More than a year after the attack, only one health facility is operational in the district, compared to the seven health centers that were functional before.

    “With the increase in displacements, many people have come to seek refuge in Macomia, overwhelming the only functional health center,” says Dr. Emerson Finiose, an MSF medical doctor in Macomia. “We’re struggling to do medical referrals. We must prioritize the most severe cases, leaving a significant gap in care for the rest of the community.”

    The situation in Macomia illustrates the fragility of the health system in Cabo Delgado, a pattern repeated across the three other districts where MSF is present: Mocímboa da Praia, Mueda and Palma. Since the conflict began, more than fifty percent of the province’s health facilities have been completely or partially destroyed, according to official data. The situation got worse when Cyclone Chido struck southern parts of Cabo Delgado late last year.

    At the same time, many health facilities are non-functional due to the absence of health workers. Services are frequently suspended or reduced, particularly in hard-to-reach areas, and many of the functional facilities are under-resourced or located too far for many people to access safely.

    In 2025, MSF was forced to suspend outreach activities five times due to insecurity, for at least two weeks at a time, particularly in Macomia and Mocímboa da Praia. This left thousands of people without access to healthcare and jeopardized the continuity of care for patients.

    MSF teams provide basic healthcare, treatment for HIV and TB, sexual and reproductive health services, mental health support as well as maternity and pediatric care. We also carry out donations of medicines and medical supplies and provide water and sanitation services. Between January and May 2025, MSF carried out a monthly average of 18,000 medical consultations (both inpatient and outpatient), 30 referrals of patients in need of specialized care and 740 deliveries were assisted across the four districts where we operate.

    The limitations – and sometimes inability – to offer care due to this volatile context has a deep impact on the community. This is evident in our medical data: in April, our teams in Mocímboa da Praia carried out 12,236 outpatient consultations. In May, as incidents intensified, that number dropped drastically to 1,951.

    A crucial part of MSF’s response is carried out by health promotion teams and community health workers known as APEs (Agentes Polivalentes Elementares). They work with communities to share essential health information and promote healthy practices, such as handwashing and water treatment to prevent waterborne diseases. MSF trains some of these workers to identify and treat common diseases, such as malaria, a leading cause of death in the region, and to process the referral of patients in need of specialized care.

    “Sharing health information is very important in times of conflict, when many people are psychologically affected,” says Fatima Abudo Laíde, an MSF health promoter at the Malinde community, Mocímboa da Praia district.  “Sometimes a person is sick but can’t be open, because emotionally they’re not well. I help them seek treatment at the nearest health center, so they’re not isolated. I’ve faced difficult situations, like accompanying a woman in labor at three in the morning, even though I felt unsafe. But we’re here to support our community, to overcome fear, and to make sure no one is left without help.”

    In addition to suffering acute psychological distress and trauma, some patients are forced to interrupt their treatments. This is particularly concerning for pregnant women, older adults, people with disabilities, and people living with chronic conditions or HIV.

    “I remember a case in Mbau community where a pregnant woman went into labor late at night,” says Sunga Antônio, an MSF midwife at the Rural Hospital of Mocímboa da Praia. “The health promoter called us for help, but it was too late and risky to evacuate her. She gave birth in the community, and we could only take her to the hospital by morning. Sadly, she fell into a coma, likely from complications, as she was carrying twins. If the local health center had been functional, she could have received timely care and had a safe delivery.”

    Recent cuts in humanitarian aid have intensified the deteriorating situation in Cabo Delgado. These funding shortfalls illustrate the broader global issue: the collective ability to respond to people’s needs is collapsing across all sectors and organizations. “Cabo Delgado’s conflict has become a severe humanitarian crisis,” says Dr. Finiose. “It affects every aspect of life, especially healthcare and education, and it strips people of their dignity. We need safe access to communities in need and we need support from other actors so we can help them cope with the consequences of this crisis.”

    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  

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: President Trump Solidifies U.S. Position as Leader in AI

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Whitehouse
    President Donald J. Trump is making America the undisputed world leader in artificial intelligence — and today marked a massive leap forward with the announcement of over $90 billion in groundbreaking AI and energy investments in Pennsylvania.
    Joined by leaders of the nation’s premier tech and energy giants, administration officials, and lawmakers, President Trump showcased the investments this afternoon at the first-ever Energy and Innovation Summit — underscoring the Trump Administration’s unwavering commitment to innovation, job creation, and American dominance.
    The announcement covered tens of billions of dollars in AI and energy investment, including Google’s $25 billion investment in data centers and infrastructure, Blackstone’s $25 billion investment in data centers and natural gas plants, and CoreWeave’s $6 billion investment in data center expansion.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: President Trump Solidifies U.S. Position as Leader in AI

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Whitehouse
    President Donald J. Trump is making America the undisputed world leader in artificial intelligence — and today marked a massive leap forward with the announcement of over $90 billion in groundbreaking AI and energy investments in Pennsylvania.
    Joined by leaders of the nation’s premier tech and energy giants, administration officials, and lawmakers, President Trump showcased the investments this afternoon at the first-ever Energy and Innovation Summit — underscoring the Trump Administration’s unwavering commitment to innovation, job creation, and American dominance.
    The announcement covered tens of billions of dollars in AI and energy investment, including Google’s $25 billion investment in data centers and infrastructure, Blackstone’s $25 billion investment in data centers and natural gas plants, and CoreWeave’s $6 billion investment in data center expansion.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Calls on Senate to Make DOGE Cuts Permanent

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)

    WASHINGTON – After exposing sweeping abuses at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) spoke on the Senate floor to urge her colleagues to pass President Trump’s rescissions bill to save taxpayer dollars and make Washington squeal.
    From funding fashion week to pickle makers, Ernst cited multiple wasteful USAID projects and taxpayer-subsidized partisan propaganda at National Public Radio (NPR) and Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) that she has uncovered.
    After being stonewalled, Ernst has been leading the fight to combat waste at USAID and sent Secretary of State Marco Rubio a letter detailing her experience with the rogue agency as it misled, lied, and deceived the American people about how their tax dollars are spent. She has continued her work exposing jaw-dropping waste at USAID.
    Last month, Ernst demanded transparency from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) over a $1.9 million grant it provided NPR last year.

    Watch Senator Ernst’s full remarks here.
    Ernst’s full remarks:
    “All Americans can take great pride in our nation’s generosity that has saved millions of people around the world from starvation and disease.
    “And, our government agencies coordinating aid efforts should be eager to share details about how their use of taxpayer money makes the world a better place.
    “Yet, over the past decade, USAID repeatedly rebuffed my requests for information, using intimidation and shell games to hide where money is going, how it’s being spent, and why.
    “As a result of my oversight, I learned that the U.S. Agency for International Development, or USAID, is a rogue bureaucracy, operating with little accountability and even, sometimes, at odds with our nation’s best interests.
    “What warranted such secrecy and stonewalling?
    “Here’s just some of USAID’s questionable spending that I uncovered:
    “Money intended to alleviate economic distress in war-torn Ukraine was spent:
    “Sending models and designers on junkets to New York City and Fashion Weeks in Paris and London, at a cost of more than $203,000;
    “$148,000 went to a pickle maker;
    “A dog collar manufacturer fetched $300,000; and
    “A custom carpet manufacturer collected $2 million.
    “Elsewhere, $20 million was awarded to Sesame Workshop, which produces Sesame Street, to create content for Iraq;
    “$2 million went toward promoting tourism to Lebanon, a nation that our very own State Department warns against traveling to due to the risks of terrorism and kidnapping.
    “Yes, folks, $2 million for tourism to Lebanon when we are saying, don’t travel there.
    “$67,000 was spent to feed edible insects to children in Madagascar.
    “Over $800,000 was sent to China’s notorious Wuhan Institute of Virology to collect coronaviruses.
    “What exactly was our international development agency developing at China’s Wuhan Institute of Virology?
    “Well, if the CIA, FBI, and other experts are correct that the COVID virus likely originated from a lab leak, USAID may have had a hand in a once-in-a-century pandemic that claimed the lives of millions.
    “There’s no shortage of other questionable USAID projects, but President Trump is putting an end to this deep state operation.
    “The foreign assistance programs that do advance American interests are now being administered under the watchful eye of Secretary Marco Rubio.
    “This includes projects previously supported by USAID that were caring for orphans and people living with HIV.
    “Imagine how much more good work like this could be done with the dollars that instead financed fashion shows, supported Sesame Street programs in Iraq, or ended up in China’s Wuhan Institute.
    “Overseas projects without merit are being ended and the tax dollars that were paying for them will be refunded if the Senate passes the rescissions bill.
    “It also cancels taxpayer subsidies to public broadcasting.
    “Too often, these programs are partisan propaganda.
    “You don’t have to take my word for it.
    “A National Public Radio senior editor recently confessed ‘It’s true NPR has always had a liberal bent.’
    “He admits the organization has ZERO Republicans in editorial positions.
    “Come on folks, even CNN has Scott Jennings to roast the looney liberal lunatics on that failing network.
    “NPR and PBS have a right to say whatever the heck they want, but they don’t have a right to force hardworking Americans to pay for their political propaganda being masked as a public service.
    “Defunding this nonsense is causing a lot of squealing from the big spenders around here.
    “Washington insiders are more upset at this effort to stop wasteful spending than at the misuse of taxpayer dollars.
    “In fact, saving tax money is such a crazy concept in Washington that Democrats are threatening to shut down the entire government if this bill passes.
    “It says a lot about the other side’s priorities when they’re willing to take hostage funding for veterans and senior citizens to prevent $9 billion in unnecessary waste, fraud, and abuse from being trimmed from our $7 trillion annual budget.
    “The interest that we are paying on our debt alone is costing nearly $3 billion every single day.
    “If we are ever going to get serious about our debt crisis, Congress needs to pass a rescissions bill like this every single week.
    “Folks, the simple truth is if you can’t find waste in Washington, it’s because you simply are not looking.
    “With our national debt now exceeding $37 trillion, the real question we should be asking isn’t ‘why is government spending now being scrutinized?,’ but rather, ‘why did it take so long?’”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Coons statement on President Trump’s decision to allow the export of advanced AI chips to China

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) issued the following statement after the Trump administration announced it would allow Nvidia to resume selling its H20 advanced computer chips to Chinese customers:

    “President Trump’s decision today hands China cutting-edge technology that Beijing will use to erase our competitive advantage in artificial intelligence, undermine our military, and outpace our economy. Thanks to the efforts of the Biden administration and bipartisan work in Congress, the United States was better positioned at the beginning of the year than any other country on the planet to lead the way on artificial intelligence, from chip design to applications. Now, President Trump is throwing that all away, giving China a tool that will strengthen their economy and military, while, just today, China announced it will restrict American access to critical battery technology and equipment we need for our own economy and security. The administration must immediately reverse this harmful decision and take steps to make sure its actions on AI actually match its tough-on-China rhetoric.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi meets heads of foreign delegations attending SCO council of foreign ministers meeting 2025-07-16 09:56:13 Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday met in Beijing with foreign ministers and heads of standing bodies of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) who are in China to attend the Meeting of the Council of the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of SCO Member States.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense

    Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with foreign ministers and heads of standing bodies of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) who are in China to attend the Meeting of the Council of the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of SCO Member States at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, July 15, 2025. (Xinhua/Yin Bogu)

    BEIJING, July 15 (Xinhua) — Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday met in Beijing with foreign ministers and heads of standing bodies of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) who are in China to attend the Meeting of the Council of the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of SCO Member States.

    He noted that over the past 24 years since its founding, the SCO has always upheld the Shanghai Spirit, grown into a mature and robust organization, and demonstrated strong vitality.

    China has always prioritized the SCO in its neighborhood diplomacy, and is committed to making the organization more substantive and stronger, safeguarding regional security and stability, promoting the development and prosperity of member states and building a closer community with a shared future, Xi said.

    He added that since China assumed the rotating presidency last July, it has actively carried out activities and advanced cooperation, with all parties taking solid steps to jointly build a better home for the SCO.

    With the SCO Summit set to take place this year in China’s Tianjin, Xi expressed his hope to meet the leaders of other member states at the event to discuss the future development of the SCO.

    He stressed that in the face of a turbulent and changing international landscape, the SCO must stay focused, remain confident, act efficiently and play a more proactive role in injecting greater stability and positive energy into the world.

    Xi called on the SCO to take trust and mutual benefit as the foundation of cooperation, equality and consultation as the way of engagement, respect for diverse civilizations as a means to promote harmony and inclusiveness, and common development as a path toward shared prosperity, to ensure that the Shanghai Spirit continues to light the way in building an SCO community with a shared future.

    The organization should respond to the people’s aspirations and be doers in deepening cooperation, Xi said, calling for improving mechanisms to address security threats and challenges, better alignment of member states’ development strategies with cooperation initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative, and facilitating personnel exchanges and people-to-people ties.

    Xi also called for joint efforts to firmly oppose hegemony, power politics, and bullying in order to promote a more equal and balanced multipolar world. He emphasized the need for extensive consultation, joint contribution, and shared benefits to advance a more inclusive and universally beneficial economic globalization.

    The SCO should unite and lead the Global South in building a more just and equitable global governance system, pooling immense strength for the building of a community with a shared future for humanity, he added.

    Wang Yi, as the chair of the Council of the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the SCO Member States, reported on the progress made in various aspects of work since China assumed the rotating presidency, as well as the preparations for the SCO Summit in Tianjin.

    On behalf of the foreign delegations, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said that through its steadfast commitment to the Shanghai Spirit, the SCO has achieved notable cooperation outcomes and gained increasing international appeal.

    Practice has proven that the Shanghai Spirit, which is characterized by mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality, consultation, respect for diversity of civilizations, and pursuit of common development, aligns with member states’ shared interests and demonstrates robust vitality, he added.

    Lavrov said that since China assumed the SCO rotating presidency, it has hosted numerous events driving the organization’s new progress.

    Facing a complex global landscape, the SCO should uphold multilateralism and promote the international order toward greater justice and equity, said Lavrov, adding that all parties stand ready to support China’s work as chair, forge greater consensus, and ensure the success of the upcoming SCO Summit in Tianjin. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese premier calls on China, Australia to create stronger synergy for development

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Chinese premier calls on China, Australia to create stronger synergy for development

    Chinese Premier Li Qiang attends the 8th China-Australia CEO Roundtable with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, July 15, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    BEIJING, July 15 — Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Tuesday called on China and Australia to further strengthen cooperation, promote the liberalization and facilitation of trade and investment, and create a stronger synergy for development to effectively address uncertainties.

    Li made the remarks while attending the 8th China-Australia CEO Roundtable with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in Beijing.

    Around 30 representatives of business councils and enterprises from the two countries attended the roundtable.

    Noting that this year marks the 10th anniversary of the China-Australia Free Trade Agreement, Li said over the past decade, China-Australia economic and trade cooperation has demonstrated considerable resilience and vitality.

    The economic structures of the two countries are highly complementary, and the foundations for industrial and market integration are solid, making China and Australia natural partners, Li said.

    Li said China’s vast market will continuously unleash immense consumption potential, creating more opportunities for enterprises from both countries. He called on the two sides to strengthen collaboration in cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence and life sciences to better empower the industries of both countries.

    By working together, enterprises from both countries can accelerate cooperation in clean energy, electric vehicles, and energy storage, ultimately building a world-class green industrial chain that is both resilient and competitive, he added.

    Li emphasized that both the government and enterprises should work together to better promote development. China will continue to advance high-level opening-up, treat domestic and foreign-funded enterprises equally, and legally protect the rights and interests of foreign companies and entrepreneurs in China, he said.

    It is hoped that Australia would treat Chinese enterprises fairly, addressing issues regarding market access and investment reviews, he added.

    Li urged Chinese and Australian companies to maintain openness, embrace cooperation, and deepen their efforts to promote market integration and industrial collaboration.

    When addressing the roundtable, Albanese said the current bilateral relations are steadily developing, with enthusiasm for cooperation soaring among the business communities of both countries.

    The Australian side is willing to enhance dialogue with the Chinese side, expand cooperation in various fields including trade, agriculture, industry, energy resources, and green development, address global challenges such as climate change and uphold international equity and free trade. 

    Chinese Premier Li Qiang attends the 8th China-Australia CEO Roundtable with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, July 15, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China, Australia sign MoU to implement, review free trade agreement

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, July 16 — China and Australia signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on the implementation and review of China-Australia Free Trade Agreement on Tuesday, according to the Chinese Ministry of Commerce (MOC).

    The document was signed by Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao and Australian Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Jan Adams, witnessed by Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

    Since its entry into force in 2015, the free trade agreement has significantly boosted bilateral economic and trade relations, delivering substantial benefits to both sides, said the MOC.

    As 2025 marks the 10th anniversary of the agreement, the two countries will maintain close cooperation, continue high-quality implementation of the agreement, and jointly conduct a review to identify areas for further improvement or expansion, the MOC said.

    This will enhance trade and investment liberalization and facilitation, providing a higher level of institutional support for bilateral economic and trade cooperation, the MOC said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by SCST at Publishing 3.0+ Launch Ceremony (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is the speech by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, at the Publishing 3.0+ Launch Ceremony today (July 16):

    Kenneth (Member of the Legislative Council and the Chairman of Publishing 3.0+, Mr Kenneth Fok), Duncan (Member of the Legislative Council and the Chairman of Publishing 3.0+, Mr Duncan Chiu), Sharon (Executive Director of the Hong Kong Reprographic Rights Licensing Society and the Chairman of Publishing 3.0+, Dr Sharon Wong), Mr Rashid Al Kous (Executive Director of the Emirates Publishers Association), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, 

    Good morning. It is my great pleasure to officially launch Publishing 3.0+ with industry practitioners, scholars, experts and authors. And let me also extend my warmest welcome to Mr Rashid Al Kous, coming all the way from the United Arab Emirates, and our distinguished guests here from overseas copyright organisations around the world.

    Three years ago, the then Create Hong Kong, which is now restructured as the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, CCIDA, under my bureau, began sponsoring and steering the Publishing 3.0 project, as a touchstone of an in-depth application of artificial intelligence (AI) to the publishing industry, enabling the extensive production of e-books and audiobooks. The project enabled around 60 Hong Kong publishers to successfully convert paper publications into 5 000 bilingual e-books and audiobooks in Cantonese, Putonghua and English, seizing the tremendous opportunity of digital transformation.  

    Publishing 3.0+ builds on the success of its predecessor. This enhanced project will focus on large language models within the AI-driven system, and further strengthen its multilingual translation and content conversion capabilities, empower local publishers to convert Chinese books into multi-languages, and open doors to a global readership. Publishing 3.0+ will refine the e-books and audiobooks converted over the past years, and further deliver another 5 000 translated and converted copies of books.

    The fruitful expected outcome of 10 000 e-books and audiobooks will be showcased in the Hong Kong pavilions at various international book fairs in the coming months. We will further leverage the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC)’s Asia IP Exchange, AsiaIPEX, to facilitate and encourage the industry to tap into the vast opportunities of copyright trading.

    President Xi Jinping has emphasised that literature and art serve as bridges of mutual understanding and communication among different countries and ethnic groups. With a considerable amount of foreign classics on his reading list, President Xi repeatedly shared his deep and inseparable bond with books on international occasions when meeting foreign friends. We see that books are media that help foster friendships and exchanges between cultures. 

    With the great delight of having our Middle East friend here today, may I share our exciting plan that Publishing 3.0+ will soon expand to include Arabic translation. During my official visit to the Middle East in April this year, I was deeply impressed by the region’s rich cultural and historical heritage. I am most delighted that Publishing 3.0+ will contribute to our effort to realising closer cultural links and friendship between the Middle East and Hong Kong, aligning the shared visions of both regions.

    Publishing 3.0+ is a collaboration of multiple parties. I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to Kenneth, Duncan and Sharon, the founder of InnoContent, whose unique blend of cultural insight, technological innovation and publishing expertise has been instrumental in realising this project. My special thanks also go to SenseTime for its unparalleled AI expertise and infrastructure, which enhance the system’s capabilities, and the Hong Kong Publishing Federation, the Hong Kong Reprographic Rights Licensing Society, and the Logistics and Supply Chain MultiTech R&D Centre for their unwavering support since the last project, and the HKTDC for its efforts in the intellectual property trading.

    Before I close, I wish Publishing 3.0+ a striking success under the collaborative efforts by the Government, the publishing industry and technology partners. I look forward to seeing Hong Kong’s AI-driven publishing sector reaches new heights, telling the good story of Hong Kong. Through this initiative, we will showcase creativity, vitality, and innovation in the age of new media. 

    Thank you very much.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Deposit Protection Board Annual Report 2024-2025

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:

    ​The Hong Kong Deposit Protection Board (the Board) today (July 16) published its Annual Report for 2024-2025. The Report highlights the key achievements of the Board in 2024-2025, which include the smooth implementation of a number of enhancements to the Deposit Protection Scheme (the Scheme) in two phases on October 1, 2024 and January 1, 2025. The Board also stepped up its promotional efforts to raise awareness of the new protection limit of HK$800,000. The Board’s dedicated efforts throughout the year contributed to the achievement of high levels of public awareness of and confidence in the Scheme. 
     
    The Annual Report 2024-2025 is available on the Board’s website (www.dps.org.hk).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: We travelled to Antarctica to see if a Māori lunar calendar might help track environmental change

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Holly Winton, Senior Research Fellow in Climatology, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington

    Holly Winton, CC BY-SA

    Antarctica’s patterns of stark seasonal changes, with months of darkness followed by a summer of 24-hour daylight, prompted us to explore how a Māori lunar and environmental calendar (Maramataka) might apply to the continent and help us recognise changes as the climate continues to warm.

    Maramataka represent an ancient knowledge system using environmental signs (tohu) to impart knowledge about lunar and environmental connections. It traces the mauri (energy flow) between the land (whenua), the ocean (moana) and the sky and atmosphere (rangi), and how people connect to the natural world.

    Maramataka are regionally specific. For example, in Manukau, the arrival of godwits from the Arctic indicates seasonal changes that align with the migration of eels moving up the local Puhinui stream.

    During matiti muramura, the third summer phase that aligns with the summer solstice, the environment offers tohu that guide seasonal activity. The flowering of pohutukawa is a land sign (tohu o te whenua), the rising of Rehua (Antares, the brightest star in the constellation Scorpius) is an atmospheric sign (tohu o te rangi), and sea urchins (kina) are a sea sign (tohu o te moana).

    When these signs align, it signals balance in nature and the right time to gather food. But if they are out of sync (such as early flowering or small kina), it means something in the environment (te taiao) is out of balance.

    These tohu remind us how deeply land, sea and sky are connected, and why careful observation matters. When they’re out of sync, they call us to pause, observe and adapt in ways that restore natural balance and uphold the mauri of te taiao.

    Tracking a Maramataka in Antarctica

    One of the key tohu we observed in Antarctica was the mass arrival of Weddell seals outside New Zealand’s Scott Base at the height of summer.

    Guided by Maramataka authorities, we explored other local tohu using Hautuu Waka, an ancient framework of weaving and wayfinding to navigate a changing environment. Originally used for navigating vast oceans, wayfinding in this context becomes a metaphor for navigating the complexities of today’s environmental and social challenges.

    During the Antarctic summer, the Sun doesn’t set. But we documented the Moon when visible in the day sky and observed the Sun, clouds, mountains and various forms of snow and ice. This included glacial ice on the land, sea ice in the ocean and snowflakes in the sky.

    One of the seasonal tohu in Antarctica is the mass arrival of Weddell seals outside New Zealand’s Scott Base at the height of summer.
    Holly Winton, CC BY-SA

    While the tohu in Antarctica were vastly different from those observed in Aotearoa, the energy phases of the Maramataka Moon cycles aligned with traditional stories (pūrākau) describing snow and ice.

    We identified some of the 12 different forms of snow recorded by ethnographers, who described them as the “offspring of wind and rain”.

    At Scott Base, we observed feather-like snow (hukapuhi) and floating snow (hukarangaranga). Further inland on the high-elevation polar plateau, we found “unseen” snow (hukakoropuku), which is not always visible to the naked eye but felt on the skin, and dust-like snow (hukapunehunehu), akin to diamond dust. The latter phenomenon occurs when air temperatures are cold enough for water vapour to condense directly out of the atmosphere and form tiny ice crystals, which sparkle like diamonds.

    In te ao Māori, snow has a genealogy (whakapapa) that connects it to wider systems of life and knowledge. Snow is part of a continuum that begins in Ranginui (the sky father) and moves through the god (atua) of weather Tāwhirimātea, who shapes the form and movement of clouds, winds, rain and snow. Each type of snow carries its own name, qualities and behaviour, reflecting its journey through the skies and land.

    The existence of the specific terms (kupu) for different forms of snow and ice reflect generations of observation, passed down through whakapapa and oral histories (kōrero tuku iho).

    Connecting Western science and mātauranga Māori

    Our first observations of tohu in Antarctica mark the initial step towards intertwining the ancient knowledge system of mātauranga Māori with modern scientific exploration.

    The Moon cycles at Scott Base align with traditional stories describing snow and ice.
    Holly Winton, CC BY-SA

    Observing snow through traditional practices provided insights into processes that cannot be fully understood through Western science methods alone. Mātauranga Māori recognises tohu through close sensory attention and relational awareness with the landscape.

    Drawing on our field observations and past and present knowledge of environmental calendars found in mātauranga Māori and palaeo-climate data such as ice cores, we can begin to connect different knowledge systems in Antarctica.

    For example, just as the Maramataka contains information about the environment over time, so do Antarctic ice cores. Every snowflake carries a chemical signature of the environment that, day by day, builds up a record of the past. By measuring the chemistry of Antarctic ice, we gain proxy information about environmental and seasonal cycles such as temperature, winds, sea ice and marine phytoplankton.

    The middle of summer in an ice core record is marked by peak levels in chemical signals from marine phytoplankton that bloom in the Ross Sea when sea ice melts, temperatures are warmer and light and nutrients are available. This biogenic aerosol is a summer tohu identified as a key environmental time marker in the Maramataka of the onset of the breading season and surge in biological activity.

    The knowledge of Maramataka has developed over millennia. Conceptualising this for Antarctica opens a way of using Māori methods and frameworks to glean new insights about the continent and ocean. Grounded in te ao Māori understanding that everything is connected, this approach invites us to see the polar environment not as a remote but a living system of interwoven tohu, rhythms and relationships.

    Holly Winton receives funding from Royal Society Te Apārangi (Rutherford Discovery Fellowship and Marsden Fast-Start) and Victoria University of Wellington (Mātauranga Māori Research Fund). Logistics support for Antarctic fieldwork was provided by Antarctica New Zealand.

    Ayla Hoeta receives funding from Victoria University of Wellington (Mātauranga Māori Research Fund). Logistics support for Antarctic fieldwork was provided by Antarctica New Zealand.

    – ref. We travelled to Antarctica to see if a Māori lunar calendar might help track environmental change – https://theconversation.com/we-travelled-to-antarctica-to-see-if-a-maori-lunar-calendar-might-help-track-environmental-change-239583

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Right-wing political group Advance is in the headlines. What is it and what does it stand for?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Mark Riboldi, Lecturer in Social Impact and Social Change, UTS Business School, University of Technology Sydney

    Advance/Facebook

    Political lobby group Advance has been back in the headlines this week. It was revealed an organisation headed by the husband of the Special Envoy for Combatting Antisemitism, Jillian Segal, donated A$50,000 to the group.

    The news prompted outcry, though Segal denied any personal involvement.

    So what is Advance and what does it do?

    What is Advance?

    Advance (originally Advance Australia) is a digital campaigning organisation. It was formed in 2018 by a group of wealthy Australians, many with connections to the Liberal Party. The idea was to be a conservative counterpoint to progressive digital campaigning group GetUp!

    At the time, political journalist Mungo McCallum described them as a “stratospherically elite clique of rich, bored men looking for a hobby.” He suggested they would have little, if any, impact.

    Today the group has more than 330,000 members.

    They also successfully led the “No” campaign in the Indigenous Voice to Parliament Referendum in 2023.

    McCallum’s initial dismissal of Advance appears somewhat premature.

    What does Advance want?

    Advance’s stated aim is to “take the fight to the activists and elites” to “secure Australia’s freedom, security and prosperity”. They campaign against progressive taxation, immigration, the transition to renewable energy and even Welcome to Country ceremonies.

    This positions Advance alongside other right-wing populist actors, including Donald Trump, in the modern “war on woke”. This comparison was welcomed by founding Advance director, major donor and hedge fund manager Simon Fenwick.



    Read more:
    Follow the money: the organisations that spent the most on social media during the election

    These actors, which in Australia also include the Murdoch Press, construct elitism not along class lines, but along an urban/rural divide. In its view, Advance’s billionaire funders are apparently not elites. Instead, they attempt to foster divisions between urban “elites” and regional and suburban “mainstream Australians”.

    Like the Trumpian model of “flood(ing) the zone with shit”, Advance has been accused of pursuing these aims by “unleashing a veritable fire hose of disinformation”. The hose is often aimed at progressive political candidates, climate change, immigrants or the Voice referendum.

    Who runs and funds Advance?

    Advance’s longtime Executive Director and “main man” is the somewhat enigmatic Matthew Sheahan. Their current spokesperson is Sandra Bourke, who has a background in law enforcement and national security. In 2024, Bourke claimed Advance was “the biggest grassroots movement in Australian political history”.

    While Advance is structurally independent of any political party, a variety of Liberal Party figures have been closely connected to the organisation, including former Prime Minister Tony Abbott.

    Early prominent members (and funders) of Advance included storage king Sam Kennard, far-right president of the Australian Jewish Association David Adler, and climate denier Maurice Newman.

    Founding Director Simon Fenwick has donated at least $400,000 to the organisation through his family trust since its inception.

    In 2023–24, Advance received a $500,000 donation from the Cormack Foundation, an investment fund created by the Liberal Party of Victoria.

    The organisation reported income of more than $15.5 million in the same period. It claims their average donation received from supporters is $160.

    What impact has Advance had?

    The 2023 Voice Referendum “made” Advance (and arguably Matthew Sheahan) via their management of two prominent No campaigns.

    Prior to this, Advance’s campaigning was arguably more nuisance than anything else.

    Advance’s No campaign featured significant amounts of dis- and misinformation across multiple media channels, including phone banking (cold calling voters). The campaign was characterised by contradictory micro campaigns that sowed the confusion that fed the slogan of “if you don’t know, vote No”.

    The Advance-led No campaigns also strongly embraced racism against leading First Nations voices. This included suggestions that media commentator Stan Grant had artificially darkened his skin, questioning the “blackness” of Victorian Senator Lidia Thorpe, and utilising “Jim Crow” style advertising against leading Yes campaigner Thomas Mayo.

    The Jim Crow era of American history refers to a time in the late 19th and early-mid 20th centuries where laws enforced racial segregation and discrimination.

    One of the key spokespeople for Advance’s No campaign was Jacinta Nampijinpa Price, a woman with Aboriginal and Anglo-Celtic heritage. She’s a former Advance staffer and current Liberal Party Senator and made the comments about Lidia Thorpe.

    Why is Advance important?

    Following their role in the Voice campaign, Advance have arguably “eclipsed” their inspiration and progressive rivals GetUp! as Australia’s leading digital campaigning organisation. Glen Berman, current GetUp! chair, has even admitted “there were things that GetUp! could learn” from Advance.

    Advance appeared influential over Liberal Party strategy ahead of the 2025 federal election campaign. During the campaign, it was the highest spending third party group (non-party, non-candidate) on Meta (Facebook and Instagram) advertising. This saw it emerge as the conservative third party “opposition” to the Australian union movement.

    However, following the Australian Labor Party’s landslide victory, Advance attempted to distance themselves from the Coalition’s campaign. While they claim to have been focused on “destroying” the Greens, analysis suggests Advance’s campaign was equally focused on framing Labor Prime Minister Anthony Albanese as “weak, woke and sending us broke”.

    Senior Liberal Party figures, for their part, have also “cast doubt on the effectiveness of Advance”, saying it may have cost them seats.

    Generally, scholars Marian Sawer and Kurt Sengul argue Advance, along with the Murdoch media, have engaged in the “populist mobilisation of resentment which is likely to exacerbate the kind of divisions seen in the Voice referendum” since 2018.

    Part of a worldwide trend towards right-wing populism, Advance will likely continue to be at the centre of conservative politics in Australia.

    Mark Riboldi does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Right-wing political group Advance is in the headlines. What is it and what does it stand for? – https://theconversation.com/right-wing-political-group-advance-is-in-the-headlines-what-is-it-and-what-does-it-stand-for-261164

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –