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  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy champions No Propaganda Act to end taxpayer funding of partisan government broadcasting network

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)

    WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, introduced the Senate companion to the No Propaganda Act to defund the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB). The bill would block federal funding for the CPB, which funnels taxpayer dollars to National Public Radio (NPR), because of the organization’s chronically biased content. 

    “The Corporation for Public Broadcasting should not be funneling Louisianians’ hard-earned tax dollars to outlets with one-sided coverage that clearly aim to promote a leftist political agenda. The No Propaganda Act would make sure that Americans aren’t footing the bill for biased, government media,” said Kennedy.

    Rep. Scott Perry (R-Pa.) introduced the bill in the House of Representatives.

    “The American Taxpayer continues to provide handouts through the Corporation for Public Broadcasting to media outlets that have actively pushed Chinese propaganda and have prioritized fighting disinformation over free speech. CPB must be defunded to end the stream of taxpayer funds to biased, anti-American public radio and television stations,” said Perry.

    Congress has appropriated more than $15 billion to fund the CPB since 1969, which it allocates to NPR and the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS). CPB states that its goal is to “educate, inform, foster curiosity, and promote civil discourse essential to American society.”

    However, in April, a whistleblower exposed NPR’s decision not to broadcast the Hunter Biden laptop scandal because NPR believed covering the story would help presidential candidate Donald Trump during the 2020 election cycle.

    In 2020, reports also revealed that PBS used taxpayer dollars to partner with a Chinese Communist Party-controlled media outlet, CGTN, to produce a pro-Beijing film.

    The full bill text is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fisheries consultation must put sustainability before profit

    Source: Green Party

    The Green Party is urgently calling on the Government to prioritise long-term prosperity of our oceans in its consultation on the Fisheries Act.

    “Our oceans are in a state of decline, continuing to put short-term profit before long-term sustainability will see the health of our ocean life wash away,” says Green Party’s Oceans and Fisheries spokesperson Teanau Tuiono.

    “Minister Jones has stated ‘sustainability will always be the bottom line for fisheries management,’ but we have seen decisions from the Government completely contradict and undermine this. Today’s proposed changes seem to reward industry for overfishing, posing a significant threat to the sustainability and longevity of our oceans.

    “If the Minister truly cared about sustainability he would ban bottom trawling and champion sustainable, adaptive fishing practices, which will increasingly be required in the context of climate change. 

    “If we want our oceans to thrive for generations to come we must commit to protecting more of our waters. We campaigned on doing exactly this by establishing a Healthy Oceans Act that would create a legally binding framework to protect at least 30 per cent of Aotearoa’s ocean by 2030.

    “The crisis facing our ocean is growing more urgent by the day – and it is communities who depend on the moana for their livelihoods, including Māori and Pasifika communities, who will be impacted most of all. This Government needs to prioritise the sustainability of our oceans, which in turn prioritises long-term wellbeing of tangata whenua and tagata moana.

    “It is high time the Government turned the tide on the exploitative and extractive fishing practices that have seen our ocean environment’s health decline and our fisheries be depleted.

    “Our oceans are the lifeblood of Aotearoa. It is incumbent upon us to protect them, not only for their beauty, but for their essential role in sustaining life on our planet,” says Teanau Tuiono.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: More Kiwis are hungry, homeless and out of work

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    Half of Pacific children sometimes going without food is just one of many heartbreaking lowlights in the Salvation Army’s annual State of the Nation report.

    “This devastating report shows just how far this country has gone backwards under this coalition of chaos,” Labour’s social development spokesperson Carmel Sepuloni said.

    “While Government parties scrap with each other, our kids are going hungry, more people are living in cars and our best and brightest are leaving for Australia.

    “Across most of the report’s indicators in the past year, outcomes have either worsened or not changed for children and youth.

    “Homelessness is on the rise as the Government kicks families out of emergency housing without knowing where they all go, and next year the number of Kainga Ora homes in Auckland will go backwards.

    “Unemployment is on the rise, with about 1 in 10 Māori and Pacific people unemployed while the Government chooses to give billions to landlords and tobacco companies, instead of helping struggling families.

    “The Government is shamelessly boasting about growth, but the only growth we’re seeing is in the numbers of hungry, homeless and unemployed New Zealanders,” Carmel Sepuloni said.

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    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Albanese Government supporting and securing regional aviation

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    The Albanese Labor Government is building Australia’s Future, today announcing regional Australia will continue to receive critical aviation services into the future.

    The Albanese Government will work with the Administrators of Regional Express Holdings (Rex), as part of an upcoming competitive sale process, to ensure crucial regional aviation services continue beyond 30 June 2025.

    We will work with shortlisted bidders on what support the Albanese Government may be able to provide to maximise the prospect of a successful sale.

    Terms of Commonwealth support will be subject to negotiation, but will be conditional on commitments by bidders to provide an ongoing, reasonable level of service to regional and remote communities, the need to provide value for money to taxpayers and good governance.

    The Government is not a bidder in the upcoming sale process and would like to see a successful market-led outcome. However, in the event there is no sale, the Albanese Government will undertake necessary work, in consultation with relevant state governments, on contingency options, including preparations necessary for potential Commonwealth acquisition.

    The Albanese Government is also providing further support through a waiver of the “use it or lose it” test for Rex regional flight slots at Sydney Airport, which will ensure its access to those slots until 24 October 2026.

    This comes on top of the Albanese Government providing a loan of up to $80 million to keep Rex’s vital regional routes operating until 30 June 2025, and acquiring $50 million of debt from Rex’s largest creditor, PAGAC Regulus Holdings Limited, earlier this year to ensure the airline could continue to operate.

    These actions make clear the Government’s ongoing commitment to maintaining access to aviation services for regional and remote communities, and recognises the critical role of the Rex network to local economies.

    The Albanese Labor Government will back regional aviation just like we back regional telecommunications because we know our great country towns deserve quality services and connectivity just like our cities.

    Quotes attributable to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:

    “Regional Australians deserve access to quality and crucial regional aviation services.

    “We are working collaboratively with the administrators of Rex to ensure that regional services continue beyond June 2025, including looking at what support the Commonwealth can provide.

    “Regional Australians can be assured that our Government will continue to fight to ensure these regional airfares remain available.”

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Finance Katy Gallagher:

    “The Albanese Government believes regional and remote communities deserve reliable, affordable and accessible air travel.

    “That’s why we’re taking steps to ensure the best possible deal for the sale of Rex.

    “Aviation services are essential for our regions, and our government is committed to seeing these services continue into the future.”

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:

    “Regional Australians rely on these important services and the Albanese Government making sure communities outside capital cities aren’t shortchanged.

    “When markets fail or struggle to deliver for regional communities the Government has a role to ensure people do not miss out on opportunities, education and critical connections.

    “We are recognising that today and stepping in to keep these routes in the air.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Graham, Scott, Norman Lead Amicus Brief in Medina v. Planned Parenthood

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Lindsey Graham

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina), U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-South Carolina), and U.S. Representative Ralph Norman (R-South Carolina) filed an “amicus curiae” (or “friend of the Court”) brief in the case of Medina v. Planned Parenthood. The brief supports South Carolina’s determination that Planned Parenthood does not qualify to receive Medicaid funding. The South Carolina Republicans were joined by 14 other Senators and 76 other members of the House of Representatives.  

    “Most Americans oppose their hard-earned tax dollars being used to subsidize abortion,” said Senator Lindsey Graham. “I am honored to join my South Carolina Republican colleagues and lend our voices to Governor Henry McMaster’s effort to make sure Medicaid funding cannot be used by Planned Parenthood in South Carolina in any fashion.”

    “The purpose of Medicaid is to provide essential healthcare services to parents and children in underserved communities where access to quality medical care can be limited,” said Senator Tim Scott. “Using taxpayer dollars to fund abortion not only diverts resources away from Medicaid’s mission, but undermines the intent of both the law and the program itself. I’m proud to join my colleagues from South Carolina in standing up for the right to life and against this government overreach.”

    “Private parties like Planned Parenthood have no right to undermine congressional intent by forcing states to say that Planned Parenthood is a qualified Medicaid provider,” said Representative Ralph Norman. “South Carolina has every right to determine what qualifies and disqualifies Medicaid healthcare providers operating within our state. That was precisely the intent of Congress. My hope is the Court will see this lawsuit for what it truly is: a misguided attempt to undermine that authority.”

    “As a pro-life state, South Carolina taxpayers should not be forced to subsidize the abortion industry,” said Governor Henry McMaster. “I am grateful for the support of members of the South Carolina delegation and the many other members of Congress who recognize the importance of this case and are standing with South Carolina as we defend our values.”

    Background:

    Under federal law and guidance, states administer Medicaid plans, including deciding which medical providers qualify to receive payments for certain services. In 2018, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster ordered the state’s Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to disqualify abortion clinics from receiving Medicaid funding. Over three years, Planned Parenthood received over $1.5 billion in state Medicaid reimbursements nationwide, which is one of their largest funding sources.

    Following South Carolina’s determination, Planned Parenthood and one of its clients sued the DHHS Director in federal court, claiming a right to force DHHS to reverse that decision. There have been four appeals, each of which Members have supported with similar briefs.

    This brief has the support of Alliance Defending Freedom, Americans United for Life, CatholicVote, Family Research Council, Students for Life, and Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious crash, State Highway 6, Nelson

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    State Highway 6 near Atawhai Drive, Nelson is currently closed following a crash.

    The two-vehicle crash involving a car and a motorbike was reported just before 11:30am.

    One person has been seriously injured.

    Diversions are in place and motorists are advised to expect delays.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New report highlights agriculture’s $41.3 billion impact on North Dakota’s economy

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    Gov. Kelly Armstrong and Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring in collaboration with North Dakota State University (NDSU) along with the North Dakota Department of Commerce, released a comprehensive economic report today underscoring agriculture’s critical role in the state’s economy and rural prosperity.

    The study, conducted by NDSU’s Department of Agribusiness and Applied Economics and the Center for Social Research, finds that North Dakota’s agriculture industry generates $41.3 billion annually in gross business volume, supports 123,360 jobs and contributes $10 billion in labor income. 

    “Agriculture isn’t just an industry. It’s the backbone of our economy and a cornerstone of rural prosperity,” said Dr. Greg Lardy, NDSU vice president for agricultural affairs. “This report reinforces the need for policies that drive investment and innovation in the sector.”

    The report, unveiled during a press conference today at the state Capitol, also highlights the continued growth of commodity processing and value-added agriculture, which are driving new economic opportunities across the state.

    “Continuing to add value to our commodities benefits every farmer and rancher across North Dakota and makes our state’s economy more resilient,” Armstrong said, citing examples such as the recently added soybean processing plants in Spiritwood and Casselton and a proposed potato processing plant in Grand Forks. “We’re committed to expanding processing and diversifying our agriculture sector to create jobs and ensure that North Dakota remains a leader in ag innovation as we feed and fuel the world.” 

    The North Dakota Agriculture Industry Economic Contribution Analysis was funded by industry, including the following: North Dakota Agricultural Association; North Dakota Corn Growers Association; North Dakota Dry Bean Council; North Dakota Farm Bureau; North Dakota Farmers Union; North Dakota Soybean Council; North Dakota Soybean Growers Association; North Dakota Stockmen’s Association; Northern Canola Growers Association; Northern Pulse Growers Association; Northland Potato Growers Association; and Red River Valley Sugarbeet Growers Association.

    “Agriculture continues to play an integral part in our state’s economy, thanks to our hardworking and innovative farmers, ranchers, rural communities and ag industries,” Goehring said. “We look forward to the future of agriculture as opportunities to add value, new cutting-edge developments and continued research shape how we produce a wide array of products used here and around the world.”

    Commerce Commissioner Chris Schilken tied the report’s findings to the need for strategic rural planning.

    “Planning is essential to ensure agriculture’s long-term success,” Schilken said. “From infrastructure to workforce development, rural communities need forward-thinking strategies to keep pace with industry growth. That’s why events like the North Dakota Rural Planning Symposium are so critical. They bring together experts and community leaders to map out a sustainable future for North Dakota’s rural economy.”

    The North Dakota Rural Planning Symposium kicks off this evening followed by a full day Wednesday of presentations focusing on strategies for building resilient rural communities, enhancing infrastructure and fostering economic development. The event will bring together community developers, policymakers and industry leaders to explore actionable solutions for strengthening North Dakota’s rural landscape.

    Learn more about the North Dakota Rural Planning Symposium at https://ndgov.link/RuralPlanning.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Haverhill Man Pleads Guilty to Cocaine and Firearms Trafficking

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – A Haverhill man pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court in Boston to trafficking cocaine and illegal firearms in and around the Boston area.

    Cordell Miller, 29, pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute cocaine, aiding and abetting and one count of trafficking in firearms and conspiracy to do so. U.S. Senior District Court Judge William G. Young scheduled sentencing for May 7, 2025. Miller was arrested and charged in November 2023 along with alleged co-conspirators Malcolm Desir and Alan Robinson.

    Miller was identified as a firearms and ammunition trafficker in the metro Boston area. In August 2023, Miller arranged for the sale of distribution weight cocaine and several firearms to a cooperating witness. Prior to his arrest in November 2023, Miller and Robinson facilitated the sale of four separate firearms: an AR-15 “ghost gun” rifle; a Polymer 80 “ghost gun” pistol; a HIPOINT 9mm rifle; and a Ruger .38 caliber pistol.

    In January 2025, Robinson pleaded guilty and is scheduled to be sentenced on April 15, 2025. Desir is scheduled to plead guilty on Feb. 19, 2025.

    The charges of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of firearms trafficking provides for a sentence of up to 15 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Division; and Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Luke A. Goldworm of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.
            
    The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Hays man admits manslaughter charge in stabbing on Fort Belknap Indian Reservation

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    GREAT FALLS — A Hays man today admitted to fatally stabbing a woman during a quarrel on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.

    The defendant, Tonylee Andrew Sears, 24, pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter as charged in an indictment. Sears faces a maximum of 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.

    Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for June 18. Sears was detained pending further proceedings.

    The government alleged in court documents that in the early morning hours of Jan. 13, 2024, Fort Belknap Law Enforcement Services responded to reports of a stabbing at Sears’ home. Officers encountered Sears, a witness, identified as John Doe, and the victim, identified as Jane Doe. Jane Doe was on the living room floor, bleeding, and was pronounced dead at the scene. In an interview with law enforcement, John Doe said he and Jane Doe had gone to Sears’ house to drink alcohol and hang out and that the victim and Sears argued. The argument escalated, and Sears grabbed a knife and stabbed Jane Doe while she was on the ground. John Doe pulled Sears off the victim and called 911. Sears threw the knife in the kitchen sink. When interviewed, Sears admitted that he and the victim rolled around on the floor after an argument, and he stabbed her. Officers recovered a knife from the kitchen sink. An autopsy report concluded that Jane Doe died from a stab wound.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. The FBI and Fort Belknap Law Enforcement Services conducted the investigation.

    XXX

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mason City Man Sentenced to More than 20 Years in Federal Prison for His Role in Distribution of Methamphetamine

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Monroe Thompson, age 40, from Mason City, was sentenced February 7, 2025, to more than 20 years in federal prison after an August 28, 2024, guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance.

    Evidence in the case revealed that between May 2023, and August 2023, Thompson was part of an ongoing drug conspiracy based in Mason City, Iowa to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl.  Thompson purchased methamphetamine from sources working with law enforcement.  During the execution of a search warrant at Thompson’s residence, officers located counterfeit M-30 pills containing fentanyl.

    Thompson has an extensive criminal history including several convictions for possession of controlled substances, possession of a firearm by a felon, and assault – inflicting serious injury in Iowa; Absence from custody in Minnesota; possession of controlled substances and/or selling or manufacturing controlled substances, and possession of firearms in Illinois; as well as Burglary, taking a vehicle without the owner’s consent, disorderly conduct and resisting or obstructing, and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances in Wisconsin. 

    Thompson was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand to 262 months’ imprisonment.  He must also serve a 5-year term of supervised release after the prison term.  There is no parole in the federal system.

    Thompson is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.

    The case was investigated by the Cerro Gordo County Sheriff’s Department and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ron Timmons.  

    Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.

    The case file number is 24-3014.

    Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Fort Dodge Woman Pleads Guilty to Fentanyl Distribution

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Braleigh Schossow, 24, from Fort Dodge, Iowa, pled guilty on February 11, 2025, in federal court in Sioux City to conspiring to distribute fentanyl.

    At the plea hearing, evidence showed that between December 2020 and February 2024, Schossow and others involved in the conspiracy, distributed at least 22 pounds of fentanyl in Fort Dodge, Iowa, and elsewhere.  

    Sentencing before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared.  Schossow remains in the custody of United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.  Schossow faces a mandatory minimum term of 10 years’ imprisonment and a maximum sentence of life imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, and at least five years of supervised release following any imprisonment.

    The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick T. Greenwood and investigated by the Tri-State Drug Task Force based in Sioux City, Iowa, that consists of law enforcement personnel from the Drug Enforcement Administration; Sioux City, Iowa, Police Department; Homeland Security Investigations; Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office; South Sioux City, Nebraska, Police Department; Nebraska State Patrol; Iowa National Guard; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; United States Marshals Service; South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation; and Woodbury County Attorney’s Office.  This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach.  Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.

    The case file number is 24-3026.  

    Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Schenectady Man Pleads Guilty to Gun and Drug Offenses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBANY, NEW YORK – Willie Mills, age 31, of Schenectady, New York, pled guilty on Monday to possession of a firearm as a felon and distribution of fentanyl.

    United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman; Bryan Miller, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF); and Frank A. Tarentino III, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), New York Field Division, made the announcement.

    Mills admitted to possessing an EAA semiautomatic pistol and distributing 895 pills containing fentanyl. As a result of his prior felony conviction for criminal possession of a firearm, Mills could not lawfully possess the pistol.

    Mills faces a mandatory prison term of at least 5 years and maximum term of 40 years, a fine up to $5 million, and a supervised release term of at least 4 years and up to life. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statutes the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors.

    DEA is investigating the case with assistance from the Schenectady Police Department and ATF. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Paulbeck is prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney’s Office Secures 20-Year Sentence for Albuquerque Drug Trafficker Following Jury Conviction

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBUQUERQUE – An Albuquerque man with a history of felony convictions was sentenced to 248 months in federal prison for drug trafficking and firearms offenses after being found guilty at trial of possessing nearly two pounds of methamphetamine and a loaded handgun.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, on February 20, 2021, Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a call about a suspicious person in Albuquerque’s South Valley. Deputies observed Jaime Valdez, 36, matching the description and noticed him acting nervously. Upon approach, Valdez began reaching into his pockets and a duffle bag, prompting deputies to secure him.

    A search revealed a loaded pistol in Valdez’s pocket and approximately $2,560 in cash, two packages containing 859.8 grams of pure methamphetamine, and drug packaging materials and a scale in the duffle bag.

    Valdez, who had three outstanding felony warrants and was previously convicted of felony charges including False Imprisonment and Child Abuse, was prohibited from possessing firearms.

    Upon his release from prison, Valdez will be subject to five years of supervised release.

    U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Towanda R. Thorne-James, Special Agent in Charge for the Drug Enforcement Administration El Paso Division, made the announcement today.

    The Drug Enforcement Administration investigated this case with assistance from the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nora Wilson and Joseph Spindle prosecuted the case.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Cornyn Champions Texas’ Request for Border Security Reimbursement

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn

    WASHINGTON – Today on the floor, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) discussed Gov. Abbott’s request for the federal government to reimburse the State of Texas for its efforts to secure the southern border, which is a federal responsibility, and previewed the Texas delegation’s plan to help pay back Texas taxpayers. Excerpts of Sen. Cornyn’s remarks are below, and video can be found here.

    “President Biden, and Vice President Harris, and Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas intentionally and willfully refused to enforce the laws on the books to keep the border secure and to keep our nation safe.”

    “We had no choice but to pick up the slack to try to secure some semblance of basic safety for Texans and the rest of the country. Everything the State of Texas did to fill the gap inured not just to the benefit of the 31 million people who live in Texas, but to the entire nation.”

    “As a result of Operation Lone Star, without any help at all from the federal government, Texas was able to reduce illegal immigration into the state by 87 percent.”

    “While every state became a border state during the last administration, there are costs that Texas had to shoulder that our neighbors have not.”

    “It’s just fair and right and just for Texas taxpayers to be made whole for the border security responsibilities it took on as a result of President Biden’s dereliction of duty.”

    “My colleagues on the House and Senate Appropriations Committees should expect me and Senator Cruz and the entire Texas delegation to be strongly advocating for reimbursement for Texas in the coming weeks, and I look forward to working with them in order to make this a reality.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Reacts to Patel Working Behind-the-Scenes to Fire FBI Agents

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today reacted to reports Kash Patel has been personally involved in the Trump Administration’s ongoing efforts to target and fire career FBI agents and officials.  
    “If these reports are true, this is perjury. Under oath, Kash Patel said he had no recollection of any discussions or details about plans to purge career FBI agents—but whistleblowers have revealed that he was not only aware but orchestrating it,” said Senator Welch. “Kash Patel’s goal is to wreck the FBI, and my colleagues across the aisle must vote no.”  
    Following his confirmation hearing, Senator Welch asked Mr. Patel in written Questions for the Record about his involvement pursing any specific individuals. Under oath, Mr. Patel answered:  

    He later provided the following answers, also under oath: 

    Read Mr. Patel’s responses to all of Senator Welch’s Questions for the Record here.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Various activities held across China to celebrate upcoming Lantern Festival

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

    Various activities held across China to celebrate upcoming Lantern Festival

    Updated: February 11, 2025 21:34 Xinhua
    People perform dragon dance during an event celebrating the Lantern Festival at Yuanshi County in the city of Shijiazhuang, north China’s Hebei Province, Feb. 9, 2025. Various activities are held across the country to celebrate the upcoming Lantern Festival which falls on Feb. 12 this year. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A girl looks at lanterns during an event celebrating the Lantern Festival in Ninghai County of Ningbo, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Feb. 9, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A girl looks at radish lamps with Chinese characters meaning good harvest in Linyi, east China’s Shandong Province, Feb. 10, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo shows people enjoying a folk art event celebrating the Lantern Festival in Zhuanglang of Pingliang, northwest China’s Gansu Province, Feb. 9, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Folk artists stage a molten iron fireworks show during an event celebrating the Lantern Festival in Wenxian County of Jiaozuo, central China’s Henan Province, Feb. 10, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    People parade during an event in Xuyi County, east China’s Jiangsu Province, Feb. 11, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China willing to promote AI development with other countries: Chinese Vice Premier

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

    China willing to promote AI development with other countries: Chinese Vice Premier

    Chinese President Xi Jinping’s special representative Zhang Guoqing, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and a vice premier of the State Council, poses for a group photo with heads of state and government and high-level representatives from more than 30 countries, along with leaders of international organizations, after the AI Action Summit in Paris, France, Feb. 11, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    PARIS, Feb. 11 — China is willing to work with other countries to promote development, safeguard security, share achievements in the field of artificial intelligence (AI), and jointly build a community with a shared future for mankind, Chinese President Xi Jinping’s special representative Zhang Guoqing said in Paris on Monday.

    Zhang is a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and a vice premier of the State Council. He made the remarks in his speech at the AI Action Summit, which was held from Feb. 10 to 11. 

    Delegates attend a plenary session at the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Action Summit, at the Grand Palais, in Paris, France, on Feb. 11, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    AI has become an important driving force for the new round of scientific and technological revolution and industrial transformation, Zhang said. China has always participated in global cooperation and governance on AI with a highly responsible attitude, he underlined.

    In October 2023, President Xi Jinping introduced the Global Initiative for AI Governance, which proposed China’s solution and contributed China’s wisdom for the AI development and governance, Zhang noted.

    In facing the opportunities and challenges brought about by the development of AI, Zhang called on the international community to jointly advocate for the principle of developing AI for good, to deepen innovative cooperation, strengthen inclusiveness and benefits, and improve global governance.

    He also invited developer communities from around the world to participate in the upcoming 2025 Global Developer Conference, scheduled from Feb. 21 to 23 in Shanghai, China.

    During the AI Action Summit in Paris, heads of state and government and high-level representatives from more than 30 countries, along with leaders of international organizations, jointly signed a Statement on Inclusive and Sustainable Artificial Intelligence for People and the Planet. 

    French President Emmanuel Macron meets with Chinese President Xi Jinping’s special representative Zhang Guoqing, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and a vice premier of the State Council, in Paris, France, Feb. 10, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    When meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday, Zhang said China is ready to work with France to implement the important consensus reached by the two countries, and push for further development of China-France relations over the next 60 years. He conveyed cordial greetings from Chinese President Xi Jinping to President Macron.

    Meanwhile, Macron expressed his gratitude to President Xi for sending a special representative to participate in the AI Action Summit. He reaffirmed that France firmly upholds strategic autonomy and is willing to strengthen dialogue and cooperation with China to jointly safeguard peace and stability, and tackle global challenges.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese, ASEAN senior officials to hold consultation

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

    BEIJING, Feb. 11 — China hopes the 31st China-ASEAN Senior Officials’ Consultation, to be held in Ningbo, Zhejiang Province from Feb. 12 to 14, will advance the China-ASEAN comprehensive strategic partnership, a foreign ministry spokesperson said here Tuesday.

    Guo Jiakun told a daily news briefing that China’s Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong will lead a delegation to the consultation and co-chair with Dato’ Sri Amran Mohamed Zin, ASEAN SOM Leader of Malaysia, country coordinator for ASEAN-China Dialogue Relations and rotating chair of ASEAN for 2025.

    Guo said the China-ASEAN Senior Officials’ Consultation is an important annual mechanism of dialogue and cooperation between the foreign affairs departments of China and ASEAN countries.

    “We hope that this consultation will be a good opportunity for the two sides to implement the important common understandings reached at the China-ASEAN leaders’ meeting, have in-depth discussions on the East Asian cooperation under new circumstances, and exchange views on regional and international issues of common interest to advance the China-ASEAN comprehensive strategic partnership,” he said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Historic street showcases beauty of cultural fusion in Harbin

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

    HARBIN, Feb. 11 — Harbin, the capital of China’s northernmost Heilongjiang Province, once again captured global attention as the 9th Asian Winter Games opened here last week.

    As a renowned destination for ice-and-snow tourism, Harbin offers a wealth of cultural experiences.

    The city’s iconic Central Street, lined with dozens of European-style buildings, features a striking mix of Renaissance, Baroque, Eclectic and modern architectural styles, making it popular among visitors.

    Embracing the excitement created by Harbin’s hosting of the Asian Winter Games, the 1,450-meter-long street is adorned with ice sculptures and snow carvings, integrating cultural heritage with the enchantment of the season.

    “Harbin is a beautiful city, with stunning streets and architecture. The Ice and Snow World at night is beyond our imagination. While Russia also has ice and snow, coming here has allowed us to experience the unique beauty and romance of ice and snow,” said Alexander Adelev, a tourist from Russia.

    According to the Central Street administrative committee, as a historic and cultural district, the street is expanding commercial space and highlighting local features to promote the innovation and transformation of time-honored brands.

    At the same time, it is actively introducing emerging industries in cultural communication and innovation-driven entrepreneurship to meet diverse and personalized consumer demands.

    The 3rd Asian Winter Games was held in Harbin in 1996. At a memorial hall on the street dedicated to the city’s achievement of hosting this event twice, visitors can explore the history of the Asian Winter Games while browsing a selection of cultural and creative products.

    Refrigerator magnets available at this hall boast clever designs, featuring everything from Harbin’s signature dish to the mascots of the ongoing Asian Winter Games. These AR-enabled magnets, when scanned, bring Harbin’s iconic landmarks to life in stunning glasses-free 3D.

    “These refrigerator magnets and other items here feel so unique, with clever designs. We rarely see such cultural and creative products back home. They are definitely worth taking back,” said Zhang Chongxin, a tourist from Guangdong Province in the south of China.

    In recent years, several historic buildings along the Central Street in Harbin have undergone extensive renovations, seamlessly blending preservation with modern functionality in this northeast China city.

    These revitalized structures have been repurposed into cafes, boutique shops, cultural venues and creative spaces — breathing new life into the area while maintaining its architectural heritage.

    “The older a historic building is, the more intriguing it feels to people,” said Song Xingwen, owner of both a cafe and a restaurant housed in a heritage building on the street.

    “Revitalizing old buildings requires preserving their original charm and allowing century-old architecture to regain its elegance, while striking a balance between preservation and commercialization,” Song said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Long March-8A carrier rocket completes maiden flight

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

    A group of low Earth orbit satellites is launched aboard a modified Long March-8 carrier rocket from the Wenchang Space Launch Site in south China’s Hainan Province, Feb. 11, 2025. The satellite group, the second of its kind that will constitute an internet constellation, was launched at 5:30 p.m. (Beijing Time). The satellites entered the preset orbit successfully. [Photo/Xinhua]

    BEIJING, Feb. 11 — China’s Long March-8A carrier rocket successfully conducted its maiden flight on Tuesday, sending a group of low Earth orbit satellites into space from the Wenchang Space Launch Site in the southern Hainan Province.

    The satellite group is the second of its kind and will form an internet constellation. It was launched at 5:30 p.m. (Beijing Time), and then entered its preset orbit successfully. The launch was the 559th flight mission of the Long March carrier rocket series.

    The Long March-8A was developed to meet the launch requirements of large-scale constellation networks in medium and low Earth orbits, according to Song Zhengyu, chief designer of the Long March-8A at the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology (CALT).

    “Together with the basic configuration of the Long March-8 carrier rocket and its strap-on, booster-free serial configuration, it forms the Long March-8 series of carrier rockets,” Song said.

    He noted that the series has 3-tonne, 5-tonne and 7-tonne payload capacities for sun-synchronous orbits, significantly enhancing China’s launch capabilities for medium and low Earth orbit satellite networks.

    The Long March-8A innovatively integrates the functions of the satellite support structure, the adapter frame and the instrument module in a multi-functional module, successfully reducing the rocket’s weight by 200 kilograms and improving its payload efficiency, according to Song.

    The rocket retains the core first stage and boosters of the Long March-8, while its core second stage features a newly developed universal hydrogen-oxygen final stage with a 3.35-meter diameter, paired with a 5.2-meter-diameter fairing.

    This unique configuration gives the Long March-8A a distinctive, large-headed appearance, providing more room for satellites. As a result, the rocket can support a wider variety and larger volume of satellites, significantly enhancing its mission adaptability.

    The universal hydrogen-oxygen final stage is capable of carrying more fuel and incorporates a range of advanced technologies. These innovations boost the rocket’s payload capacity significantly, decrease the time required for satellites to enter orbit, optimize fuel efficiency, and extend the operational lifespan of satellites, said Fan Chenxiao, a designer at CALT.

    Liu Lidong, another designer at CALT, said that the rocket’s final stage — using liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen as fuel — has a high specific impulse characteristic, allowing the rocket to achieve significant thrust with a relatively low amount of fuel. 

    A group of low Earth orbit satellites is launched aboard a modified Long March-8 carrier rocket from the Wenchang Space Launch Site in south China’s Hainan Province, Feb. 11, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A group of low Earth orbit satellites is launched aboard a modified Long March-8 carrier rocket from the Wenchang Space Launch Site in south China’s Hainan Province, Feb. 11, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A group of low Earth orbit satellites is launched aboard a modified Long March-8 carrier rocket from the Wenchang Space Launch Site in south China’s Hainan Province, Feb. 11, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A group of low Earth orbit satellites is launched aboard a modified Long March-8 carrier rocket from the Wenchang Space Launch Site in south China’s Hainan Province, Feb. 11, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: More than 1100 illegal fires recorded in Victoria since 2019

    Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

    Data released by CFA and the Crime Statistics Agency has revealed a concerning number of fire-related offences across Victoria over the past five years.

    Between 2019 and 2024, there were 1,010 recorded instances of lighting a fire during the Fire Danger Period (FDP) and 187 cases of lighting a fire on a Total Fire Ban (TFB) day. 

    The Fire Danger Period is a designated time in each Victorian municipality when fire restrictions apply due to increased fire risk. A Total Fire Ban is declared on days of extreme conditions, prohibiting any fires in the open air. 

    Under the CFA Act, penalties for allowing an open-air fire to escape during a declared FDP can include fines of up to $23,710, 12 months’ imprisonment, or both. The penalties double if the escape occurs on a Total Fire Ban Day. 

    CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said the stats are worrying.  

    “Lighting a fire during the Fire Danger Period and on days of Total Fire Ban puts lives, homes, and emergency responders at risk,” he said.  

    “If you ignore fire restrictions, you could be facing serious legal repercussions and more importantly, you could be responsible for devastating losses. 

    “Victoria is already one of the most fire-prone regions in the world, so we certainly don’t need unnecessary challenges created by carelessness or deliberate acts.”  

    A recent incident in Diamond Creek serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of ignoring FPD restrictions. 

    CFA was called to a property at around 6:28pm on Monday, January 20, where crews arrived to find smoke issuing from a pile of green tree branches approximately a metre high.  

    Victoria Police attended the scene and are now pursuing charges against the resident for lighting a fire during Nillumbik Shire Council’s Fire Danger Period. 

    All Victorian municipalities are currently in the Fire Danger Period, you can find out more information on what you can and can’t do during the FDP here.  

    If you see illegal or suspicious fire activity, report it immediately by calling Triple Zero (000) or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. 

    Submitted by CFA Media

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Scam alert: Investment bonds scam

    Source: Australia Scam Watch

    Background
    Criminals are impersonating real businesses and offering fake investment bonds. They claim these bonds offer high returns and are protected by the government.
    Scammers will encourage you to register your name, mobile number and email on a fake website. They steal money by getting people to buy fake investment bonds. They will also use your personal details to commit other scams.
    The National Anti-Scam Centre works with the Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC) to remove investment scam websites, which led to thousands of websites being taken down in 2024.

    How to spot the scam

    This scam can be hard to spot because criminals set up fake emails where they pretend to be legitimate brokers. They also have a fake website which looks like the real business’s website. The fake website has the business’s branding and uses links that go to the real website.
    The fake website comes up in internet searches for investment opportunities.
    Recently criminals were impersonating Bunnings in one of these types of scams. Scammers offered environmental bonds that support carbon reduction, sustainability and waste reduction. They offered 3 investment options ranging from $50,000 to $250,000 and promised higher than market returns of up to 9%. They said that the investments are supported by Bunnings and protected by government finance regulations.
    ASIC has taken down the fake Bunnings websites.

    What you should know
    There are steps you can take to help avoid investment scams:

    Don’t trust surprise offers to invest.
    Don’t take investment advice from people you have met on social media.
    Check the Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC) website to confirm if the person offering the investment is licenced.
    Check the Moneysmart investor alert list for companies and websites you should not trust.
    Check if the business details match the company’s real website.

    If you’ve been affected
    If you’ve had money or personal information stolen contact your bank or card provider immediately.
    If you’ve been scammed or have provided personal information call IDCARE on 1800 595 160.
    You can help others by reporting to Scamwatch.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Polis Appoints Toni J. Wehman to the 17th Judicial District Court

    Source: US State of Colorado

    DENVER – Today, Governor Polis appointed Toni J. Wehman to the 17th Judicial District Court. The appointment fills the vacancy occasioned by the death of the Honorable Sharon Holbrook and is effective immediately. 

    Ms. Wehman is a Chief Deputy District Attorney for Policy and Public Affairs in the 17th Judicial District, a position she has held since 2021. Her practice consists of policy analysis and public affairs. Previously, she was Deputy General Counsel for Denver Public Schools (2016-2021); Senior Litigation Associate at Caplan & Earnest, LLC (2010-2016); Deputy District Attorney in the 17th Judicial District (2007-2010); and Law Clerk for Justice Nancy Rice (2006-2007). Ms. Wehman earned her B.A. from University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire in 1995 and her J.D. from University of Colorado Law School in 2006. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Lamont Proposes the Largest Expansion of Preschool Access in Connecticut History

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that he is urging the Connecticut General Assembly to approve legislation he is proposing this session that will implement the largest expansion of preschool access in Connecticut history, enabling thousands of additional children to enroll in high-quality, early childhood education services, which have been unattainable for many families.

    “I want Connecticut to lead on early childhood education, and that means making preschool affordable and accessible for all of our kids,” Governor Lamont said. “Access to early childhood services is massively important to the state’s success, not only because these programs provide valuable tools for children that will lead them to professional achievements in the future, but also because being able to enroll your child in care right now means that parents can join the workforce and earn an income that supports their family. Connecticut has an opportunity to make an investment in our future by expanding access to affordable preschool.”

    The governor’s proposal includes depositing a portion of the state’s anticipated surpluses over the next several years into a brand-new fund known as the Universal Preschool Endowment. The endowment will be seeded by $300 million from the fiscal year 2025 surplus, and in the following years any unappropriated surpluses from the General Fund will continue to be transferred into it. The endowment will be managed by the Office of the Treasurer, and the commissioner of the Connecticut Office of Early Childhood may expend up to 10% of the balance of the endowment in any fiscal year.

    The proposed use of the endowment aims to expand affordable preschool options for families by:

    • Making preschool available at no cost to families earning up to $100,000 per year;
    • Limiting the cost-share for families earning between $100,000 per year and $150,000 per year to a maximum of $20 per day;
    • Creating 20,000 new preschool spaces by 2032;
    • Reducing the cost to families for approximately 19,000 existing preschool spaces; and
    • Being simple, easy to access, and flexible to meet family needs.

    “Governor Lamont’s historic action to establish a Universal Preschool Endowment will make preschool more accessible, affordable, and for many, free,” Connecticut Early Childhood Commissioner Beth Bye said. “It will stabilize the early care and education industry by increasing compensation for teachers and staff. This investment builds on the Governor’s Blue Ribbon Panel on Child Care, which brought together voices from across child care providers, businesses, government, and parents to provide a roadmap to guide ongoing investments in early education.”

    “Governor Lamont’s proposal for universal preschool will make Connecticut a national leader among states because of its comprehensive approach to supporting children and families,” Walter Gilliam, executive director of the Buffet Early Childhood Institute, said. “It supports early learning and allows working families the ability to work. The focus on quality of care and options that meet family needs also stands out. Perhaps the most unique feature is that it protects the care of infants and toddlers while creating universal preschool for our threes and fours.”

    The governor’s legislative proposal is House Bill 6867, An Act Creating the Universal Preschool Endowment. It has been referred to the Education Committee.

    **Download: Fact sheet on Governor Lamont’s proposal to expand access to preschool

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Sam Kerr verdict: what it means for law in the UK and the star athlete’s soccer career

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Megan McElhone, Senior Lecturer in Criminology, Monash University

    A London court has found Sam Kerr not guilty of the racially aggravated harassment of Metropolitan Police officer Stephen Lovell.

    As captain of the Australian women’s national soccer team, Kerr was widely condemned when news broke she had used a “racial slur” against an officer during an altercation.

    The high-profile incident sparked debate across the globe.

    Initially, former Australian soccer player Craig Foster criticised Kerr’s behaviour before retracting it and publicly apologising to her.

    Meanwhile, politicians and academics argued her comments did not amount to racism given the power dynamics at play: not only is Kerr of Indian descent, but official inquiries have found the Metropolitan Police to be institutionally racist.

    Historically, police have played a role in sustaining colonialism, racism and white supremacy. Calling Kerr’s words racist overlooks that they don’t accord with an entrenched, global system of power.

    What happened that night?

    Kerr has maintained she and her partner – United States’ women’s national team player Kristie Mewis – believed they were being kidnapped by a cab driver.

    He refused to let them out of the cab after Kerr vomited, taking them to Twickenham police station instead of their destination.

    There, Mewis broke the cab window in an attempt to get out of the vehicle.

    At the station, Kerr reportedly appealed to officers to “understand the emergency that both of us felt”, referencing the 2021 abduction, rape and murder of Sarah Everard by a Metropolitan Police officer.

    The commissioned inquiry into Everard’s murder characterised the Metropolitan Police as institutionally racist, misogynistic and homophobic.

    However, Kerr soon faced an allegation of racism after becoming distressed and antagonistic towards the officers.

    Believing they were siding with the cab driver after forming negative preconceptions because of her skin colour, she repeated “you guys are stupid and white, you guys are fucking stupid and white”.

    What are the legal ramifications in the UK?

    Kerr pleaded not guilty to the offence of intentionally causing harassment, alarm, or distress to another by using threatening, abusive, or insulting words under Section 4A of the Public Order Act 1986, and to the racial aggravation of the offence per the Crime and Disorder Act 1998.

    She faced a maximum sentence of two years’ imprisonment and an unlimited fine.

    Kerr accepted she used the words “fucking stupid and white”. But it still had to be proven she intended and caused harassment, alarm, or distress to Lovell and that the offence was racially motivated.

    Initially, the Crown Prosecution Service concluded there was not enough evidence to charge Kerr.

    But after receiving a request from the Metropolitan Police to review the case, and a new statement from Lovell about Kerr’s words making him feel “belittled” and “upset”, they authorised police to charge the athlete.

    A jury found her not guilty after a seven-day trial.

    Broadly speaking, public order offences criminalise words and behaviour that might breach the peace. Police have significant discretion to use these offences as tools to regulate people’s uses of public space.

    In Australia and the UK, police have been shown to use these powers in discriminatory ways.

    Kerr has conceded her behaviour was regrettable but the charge against her is difficult to align with the purpose of public order legislation.

    What does it mean for Kerr’s soccer career?

    It is unclear what this verdict means for Kerr’s career.

    Her English club, Chelsea, is anticipating she will return from a long-term knee injury soon.

    It is possible the club was kept in the loop about Kerr’s altercation with police from the beginning, as she reportedly threatened to involve its lawyers in the body-cam footage shown at trial.

    The club is yet to make a statement about the trial or verdict.

    Football Australia is in a different position though, having been blindsided by the news Kerr had been charged by police.

    The fact Kerr is the captain of the Matildas, and the sport’s highest-profile marketing asset, adds layers of complexity to Football Australia’s decision-making.

    CEO of Football Australia James Johnson declined to weigh in on Kerr’s captaincy until her trial concluded.

    It is possible the governing body will impose a sanction, with Kerr falling afoul of clause 2.14 of their national code of conduct and ethics after being charged with a criminal offence.

    Kerr could return to the pitch later this month, but has been left out of the Matildas squad for the SheBelieves Cup in the US because of her fitness.

    With the AFC Women’s Asian Cup on the horizon, interim Matildas head coach Tom Sermanni no doubt hopes her recovery stays on track.

    Meanwhile, Kerr is yet to play under Chelsea manager Sonia Bompastor. She could prove crucial as the club chases an elusive UEFA Women’s Champions League title, but faces competition for her spot.

    Megan McElhone 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. Sam Kerr verdict: what it means for law in the UK and the star athlete’s soccer career – https://theconversation.com/sam-kerr-verdict-what-it-means-for-law-in-the-uk-and-the-star-athletes-soccer-career-249153

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Statement by the Secretary-General on the Death of a WFP Staff Member in Detention in Yemen (scroll down for Arabic)

    Source: United Nations – English

    strong>Statement by the Secretary-General on the Death of a WFP Staff Member in Detention in Yemen
     
    I strongly condemn the death in detention on 10 February of a World Food Programme colleague who had been arbitrarily detained by the Houthi de facto authorities since 23 January 2025.

    I extend my deepest condolences to his family and WFP colleagues, and stand in solidarity with all detained colleagues and their families.

    The circumstances surrounding this deplorable tragedy remain unclear, and the United Nations is urgently seeking explanations from the Houthi de facto authorities. I call for an immediate, transparent and thorough investigation and for those responsible to be held accountable.

    Dozens of personnel from the United Nations, national and international NGOs, civil society organizations, and diplomatic missions, continue to be detained, some of whom for several years. Their continued arbitrary detention is unacceptable. I renew my call for their immediate and unconditional release. The United Nations continues to follow this situation closely and will continue to take appropriate measures to ensure the safety and security of our staff in their efforts to deliver for the people of Yemen.
     

    بيان الأمين العام للأمم المتحدة بشأن وفاة أحد موظفي برنامج الأغذية العالمي أثناء احتجازه في اليمن
     
    أدين بشدة وفاة زميلنا ببرنامج الأغذية العالمي احتجازه. وكان قد تم اعتقاله تعسفيًا من قبل سلطات الأمر الواقع (الحوثيين) في 23 يناير 2025.
     
    وأعرب عن خالص تعازي لعائلته وزملائه في برنامج الأغذية العالمي، وأقف متضامنا مع جميع الزملاء المحتجزين وعائلاتهم.
     
    ولا تزال الظروف المحيطة بهذه المأساة المروعة غير واضحة، وتسعى الأمم المتحدة بشكل عاجل للحصول على من سلطات الأمر الواقع (الحوثيين). وأدعو إلى إجراء تحقيق فوري وشفاف وشامل، ومحاسبة المسؤولين عن هذه الواقعة.
     
    ولا يزال العشرات من موظفي الأمم المتحدة والمنظمات غير الحكومية المحلية والدولية ومنظمات المجتمع المدني والبعثات الدبلوماسية رهن الاحتجاز، والبعض منهم محتجزون منذ سنوات. إن استمرار احتجازهم التعسفي أمر غير مقبول. أجدد دعوتي للإفراج الفوري وغير المشروط عنهم. تواصل الأمم المتحدة هذا الوضع عن كثب المناسبة لضمان سلامة وأمن موظفينا في جهودهم الرامية إلى الشعب اليمني.
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Barrasso Bill Protects Western Way of Life

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming John Barrasso

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) introduced legislation to protect multiple use policy on federal lands. The legislation would block the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) finalized Public Lands Rule.

    “Almost half the land in Wyoming is owned by the federal government. The law has long recognized the value of managing much of that land for multiple use – including mineral development, grazing, recreation and timber management,” said Senator Barrasso. “Wyoming prides itself on being responsible environmental stewards of the land. The Biden administration put in rules to upend public land access and productivity. This bill will direct the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to block the former administration’s disastrous Public Lands Rule. We are ready to work with the Trump administration to end the radical rules that threaten our Wyoming way of life.”

    Co-sponsors of this legislation include U.S. Senators Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), John Curtis (R-Utah), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), and Mike Crapo (R-Idaho).

    Background:

    • The final BLM rule runs counter to the agency’s multiple use mandate under the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (FLPMA).
    • According to FLPMA, the BLM is required to balance the multiple uses of public lands including recreation, energy, mining, timber, and grazing.
    • The “Conservation and Landscape Health” rule rearranges agency priorities by putting a new, single use on equal footing with long established uses that Congress explicitly directed.
    • The rule also places an outsized focus on the use of restrictive Areas of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC) designations that have compromised land and water health across the West.

    Full text of the legislation can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Statement by the Secretary-General on the Death of a WFP Staff Member in Detention in Yemen (scroll down for Arabic)

    Source: United Nations

    Statement by the Secretary-General on the Death of a WFP Staff Member in Detention in Yemen
     
    I strongly condemn the death in detention on 10 February of a World Food Programme colleague who had been arbitrarily detained by the Houthi de facto authorities since 23 January 2025.

    I extend my deepest condolences to his family and WFP colleagues, and stand in solidarity with all detained colleagues and their families.

    The circumstances surrounding this deplorable tragedy remain unclear, and the United Nations is urgently seeking explanations from the Houthi de facto authorities. I call for an immediate, transparent and thorough investigation and for those responsible to be held accountable.

    Dozens of personnel from the United Nations, national and international NGOs, civil society organizations, and diplomatic missions, continue to be detained, some of whom for several years. Their continued arbitrary detention is unacceptable. I renew my call for their immediate and unconditional release. The United Nations continues to follow this situation closely and will continue to take appropriate measures to ensure the safety and security of our staff in their efforts to deliver for the people of Yemen.
     

    بيان الأمين العام للأمم المتحدة بشأن وفاة أحد موظفي برنامج الأغذية العالمي أثناء احتجازه في اليمن
     
    أدين بشدة وفاة زميلنا ببرنامج الأغذية العالمي احتجازه. وكان قد تم اعتقاله تعسفيًا من قبل سلطات الأمر الواقع (الحوثيين) في 23 يناير 2025.
     
    وأعرب عن خالص تعازي لعائلته وزملائه في برنامج الأغذية العالمي، وأقف متضامنا مع جميع الزملاء المحتجزين وعائلاتهم.
     
    ولا تزال الظروف المحيطة بهذه المأساة المروعة غير واضحة، وتسعى الأمم المتحدة بشكل عاجل للحصول على من سلطات الأمر الواقع (الحوثيين). وأدعو إلى إجراء تحقيق فوري وشفاف وشامل، ومحاسبة المسؤولين عن هذه الواقعة.
     
    ولا يزال العشرات من موظفي الأمم المتحدة والمنظمات غير الحكومية المحلية والدولية ومنظمات المجتمع المدني والبعثات الدبلوماسية رهن الاحتجاز، والبعض منهم محتجزون منذ سنوات. إن استمرار احتجازهم التعسفي أمر غير مقبول. أجدد دعوتي للإفراج الفوري وغير المشروط عنهم. تواصل الأمم المتحدة هذا الوضع عن كثب المناسبة لضمان سلامة وأمن موظفينا في جهودهم الرامية إلى الشعب اليمني.
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: UPDATE: Charges – Murder – Alice Springs

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force has charged a 39-year-old man in relation to the death of a woman in Alice Springs on Sunday.

    The man, who is believed to be known to the victim, was arrested on Sunday and was charged with Murder late last night.

    He has been remanded in custody to appear in Alice Springs Court today.

    If you or someone you know are experiencing difficulties due to domestic violence, support services are available, including, but not limited to, 1800RESPECT (1800737732) or Lifeline 131 114.

    You can also contact police on 131 444, or in an emergency dial 000.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Expanding Healthcare, Transforming Lives

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    The end of January brought a landmark achievement for UConn’s School of Pharmacy, one that expands healthcare access and upholds the School’s commitment to patient care and community outreach. This success came after collective planning and action between the State of Connecticut and UConn’s School of Pharmacy – a big feat for a big cause.  

    Dean Hritcko addresses the audience

    Recognizing the shortage of primary care providers throughout the state, particularly among underserved populations, UConn Pharmacy developed a plan to create a pharmacy training program that would enable pharmacists to provide more comprehensive reproductive care by prescribing contraception to their patients.  

    “Allowing pharmacists to both prescribe and dispense hormonal birth control could help mitigate barriers and expand access to contraception for the citizens of our state.” – Dean Hritcko 

    Working with the Connecticut Pharmacists Association (CPA), the Department of Consumer Protection (Drug Control), and pharmacy employer entities across the state, faculty members worked to bridge the gap between this idea and the actions needed. Committed to making reproductive healthcare available to all, the UConn School of Pharmacy’s Office of Continuing Education and Professional Development developed the training and certification program, which equips pharmacists with the tools, resources, and knowledge, to provide their patients with these new services effectively and safely.  

    Acknowledging that excellence in pharmacy should be a nationwide standard, especially as many individuals across the country face barriers to affordable and accessible healthcare, this program is available to all pharmacists in every state.  

    Governor Lamont, understanding the transformative nature of this program and the current threats to reproductive healthcare, jumped on board. Working with the Connecticut Consumer Protection Commissioner Bryan T. Cafferelli, the training program received final approval at the end of January. 

    This training program is expected to take four hours to complete and is optional for pharmacists. Available through the UConn School of Pharmacy website, this training counts toward the fifteen hours of annual continuing education required for pharmacists.  

    Second-year Pharm.D. student Rachel Antonelli gives her speech

    To celebrate this pivotal moment, Governor Lamont requested to hold a press conference at the School on January 31st to address faculty, staff, students, and the press. In fact, Governor Lamont’s visit marks the first time a Connecticut governor has visited UConn’s School of Pharmacy! After he spoke, other influential leaders followed, including Dean Hritcko who expressed his gratitude to the government officials who collaborated with the School: “We’re grateful to Governor Lamont and Lieutenant Governor Bysiewicz for their leadership and unwavering commitment to ensuring Connecticut continues to lead the charge in healthcare innovation, protection of women’s health, and accessibility.”  

    Rachel Antonelli, a second-year Pharm.D. student  who is passionate about building meaningful patient connections, shared her gratitude for this stride in healthcare, “The passage of this legislation empowers more individuals to take an active role in their care, reducing accessibility barrier that too often stands in the way of essential healthcare services like providing contraception.” 

    In addition to pharmacists being able to prescribe contraception, this new legislation also includes the state’s first vending machines providing access to emergency contraception. The first of these vending machines can be found on the UConn, Storrs campus and is made possible by Dr. Peter Davis Smith, medical director of Student Health and Wellness (SHAW), and his colleagues and student advocates. 

    “This is just one of the many ways we’re working to expand access to contraception and other important medications in Connecticut.” – Governor Lamont   

    Governor Lamont talks with Sean Jeffery, Clinical Professor of Pharmacy Practice, and Nathan Rickles, Associate Dean for Admissions and Student Affairs

    This milestone in healthcare access comes in the UConn School of Pharmacy’s 100th year of excellence, exemplifying the continued efforts in education, research, and service to produce lasting change. With this latest effort, the impacts will transform communities in Connecticut and beyond, increasing healthcare access, reducing unintended pregnancies, and decreasing spending on our healthcare systems. Training the next generation of pharmacists, the School aims to inspire its students to continue to shape the future of healthcare and make a difference in the lives of Connecticut residents.   

    In times of need, UConn Pharmacy delivers – a testament to the School’s mission of building a better tomorrow through monumental actions that start today.  

    MIL OSI USA News –