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  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement from the Office of Governor Phil Scott on the Education Transformation Plan

    Source: US State of Vermont

    Montpelier, Vt. – In response to inaccurate statements, the Governor’s office issued the following statement:

    Governor Scott’s education plan strengthens our public education system by improving quality, creating equity across the state, and building a sustainable funding structure that Vermonters can afford.

    Vermonters have identified this as a top priority, and this bold plan lays the groundwork for Vermont to have the best public education system in the nation.

    Yet, defenders of the current system – which has declining test scores, massive annual property tax increases and pays teachers unequally – have misleadingly referred to this proposal as a “voucher system.”  They are wrong.

    The plan eliminates the flow of public dollars to private schools outside of the state and country. The plan also assumes the General Assembly will maintain the current moratorium on new independent schools and proposes more accountability standards for independent and public schools.

    In addition, many have continually advocated for increased pay and resources for teachers. This plan does just that, by increasing and equalizing teacher pay, so teachers have the option of serving in any school, anywhere in the state, without sacrificing pay or benefits. 

    Governor Scott’s plan ensures all our public schools are resourced to provide students with an exceptional education and teachers are supported and well compensated – so we can have the best public system in America, from cradle to career. 

    This plan is designed to support stronger schools, stronger students, and more vibrant communities.  

    For more details on the plan, visit governor.vermont.gov/strongerschools.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: IMF Executive Board Holds Informal Briefing on Venezuela

    Source: International Monetary Fund

    February 7, 2025

    Washington, DC: In line with the standard procedures for members whose Article IV consultations with the IMF are extensively delayed, on February 7, 2025, the Executive Board was briefed by staff on recent economic developments in Venezuela. Informal sessions to brief the Executive Board based on publicly available information are routinely held, approximately every 12 months, for members whose Article IV consultations are delayed by more than 18 months. The Article IV consultation with Venezuela is delayed by 217 months as of January 31, 2025.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Julie Ziegler

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Five best articles in Russian for 07.02.2025

    MIL Analysis : Here are the top five Russian language articles published today. The analysis consists of five articles that are the priority at the moment.

    In today’s analysis, the economy is still performing well, with the ruble strengthening in December and January. The Moscow Exchange is thriving and growing, posting new record highs for January.

    University and college education is gaining momentum in computerization. Russian science is stable and successful.

    The environmental field continues to improve control and recent developments.

    Below you can read one of the articles.

    1. Financial news: Ruble strengthened in December – January, shares of all sectors rose.

    In December – January, the ruble appreciated against the US dollar by 9% despite the rise of the US currency in the global market. The ruble strengthened against the background of adaptation to the new structure of foreign trade settlements after the sanctions imposed on Russian banks in November.

    2. Financial news: Private investors’ investments in bonds on the Moscow Exchange in January amounted to a record 104 billion rubles.

    Moscow Exchange.

    The number of private investors with brokerage accounts on the Moscow Exchange (MOEX) exceeded 35.5 million (+389,000 in January 2025), with 65.4 million accounts opened by them. 3.8 million people concluded transactions on the Moscow Exchange.

    3. Polytechnic teams have been selected for the national robotics championship.

    St. Petersburg Polytechnic University Peter the Great –

    St. Petersburg Polytechnic University of Peter the Great hosted the regional qualifying stage of the international robotics competition FIRST Tech Challenge – St. Petersburg. In Russia they are held under the name “League of Engineers”. Based on its results, the teams of KTM and VR roboticists from SPbPU received quotas for participation in the national championship of the League of Engineers, which will be held in March in our city.

    4. “The situation in Russian science looks stable and positive.”

    © Higher School of Economics

    On the eve of the Day of Russian Science, TASS hosted a press conference dedicated to the results of the third round of the comprehensive study “Doing Science in Russia”. It was conducted by the Institute for Statistical Research and Knowledge Economy (ISIREZ) of the Higher School of Economics. The authors of the study and experts representing higher education, scientific institutes and industry spoke about the state of domestic science, drivers of its development, the dynamics of change and barriers that need to be overcome.

    5. Yury Trutnev held the first meeting of the Organizing Committee of the International Arctic Forum “Arctic – Territory of Dialogue”.

    Yury Trutnev held the first meeting of the Organizing Committee of the International Arctic Forum “Arctic – Territory of Dialogue”

    Moscow hosted the first meeting of the organizing committee for the preparation and holding of the VI International Arctic Forum “Arctic – Territory of Dialogue” (IAF), which will be held in Murmansk on March 26-27, 2025. The meeting was held by Yury Trutnev, Deputy Prime Minister, Plenipotentiary Representative of the President in the Far Eastern Federal District, Chairman of the IAF Organizing Committee.

    Learn more about MIL’s content and data services by visiting milnz.co.nz.

    Regards MIL!

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Mitigation Experts Offer Rebuilding Advice in Columbia, Hillsborough, and Sarasota Counties

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FEMA Mitigation Experts Offer Rebuilding Advice in Columbia, Hillsborough, and Sarasota Counties

    FEMA Mitigation Experts Offer Rebuilding Advice in Columbia, Hillsborough, and Sarasota Counties

    TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – As Floridians rebuild, survivors of Hurricanes Milton, Helene and Debby can get free advice on how to rebuild stronger and safer against storms. FEMA mitigation specialists will be available to answer questions and offer free home improvement tips and proven methods to prevent and lessen damage from future disasters. This information is geared for do-it-yourself work and general contractors.Mitigation is an effort to reduce the loss of life and property damage by lessening the impact of a disaster through construction and remodeling best practices. An insurance specialist will be present to answer National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) questions. Disaster Survivor Assistance teams will be on hand to provide updates on FEMA applications and answer questions. FEMA specialists will be available from Feb. 10 through Feb. 22 from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET, Monday – Friday and on Sat. from 7:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. ET, at the following locations: Columbia County: The Home Depot, 215 SW Home Depot Dr, Lake City, FL 32025Hillsborough County: Lowe’s, 1515 E. Brandon Blvd, Brandon, FL 33511 (Feb. 10 through Feb. 15)Sarasota County: Lowe’s SW, 4020 Central Sarasota Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34238Stay in Touch with FEMAIt is important to let FEMA know about any changes to your contact information. You may update contact information or check on the status of your application by:Visiting DisasterAssistance.govCalling FEMA directly at 800-621-FEMA (3362)Using the FEMA appVisiting a Disaster Recovery Center. Go to FEMA.gov/DRC or text DRC along with your Zip Code to 43362 (Example: “DRC 32344”).For the latest information about Hurricane Milton recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4834. For Hurricane Helene recovery information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. For Hurricane Debby, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.
    connor.terzino
    Fri, 02/07/2025 – 20:06

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: February’s Night Sky Notes: How Can You Help Curb Light Pollution?

    Source: NASA

    Light pollution has long troubled astronomers, who generally shy away from deep sky observing under full Moon skies. The natural light from a bright Moon floods the sky and hides views of the Milky Way, dim galaxies and nebula, and shooting stars. In recent years, human-made light pollution has dramatically surpassed the interference of even a bright full Moon, and its effects are now noticeable to a great many people outside of the astronomical community. Harsh, bright white LED streetlights, while often more efficient and long-lasting, often create unexpected problems for communities replacing their old street lamps. Some notable concerns are increased glare and light trespass, less restful sleep, and disturbed nocturnal wildlife patterns. There is increasing awareness of just how much light is too much light at night. You don’t need to give in to despair over encroaching light pollution; you can join efforts to measure it, educate others, and even help stop or reduce the effects of light pollution in your community. 

    Amateur astronomers and potential citizen scientists around the globe are invited to participate in the Globe at Night (GaN) program to measure light pollution. Measurements are taken by volunteers on a few scheduled days every month and submitted to their database to help create a comprehensive map of light pollution and its change over time. GaN volunteers can take and submit measurements using multiple methods ranging from low-tech naked-eye observations to high-tech sensors and smartphone apps.Globe at Night citizen scientists can use the following methods to measure light pollution and submit their results:

    Their own smartphone camera and dedicated app
    Manually measure light pollution using their own eyes and detailed charts of the constellations
    A dedicated light pollution measurement device called a Sky Quality Meter (SQM).
    The free GaN web app from any internet-connected device (which can also be used to submit their measurements from an SQM or printed-out star charts)

    Night Sky Network members joined a telecon with Connie Walker of Globe at Night in 2014 and had a lively discussion about the program’s history and how they can participate. The audio of the telecon, transcript, and links to additional resources can be found on their dedicated resource page.

    DarkSky International has long been a champion in the fight against light pollution and a proponent of smart lighting design and policy. Their website (at darksky.org)  provides many resources for amateur astronomers and other like-minded people to help communities understand the negative impacts of light pollution and how smart lighting policies can not only help bring the stars back to their night skies but make their streets safer by using smarter lighting with less glare. Communities and individuals find that their nighttime lighting choices can help save considerable sums of money when they decide to light their streets and homes “smarter, not brighter” with shielded, directional lighting, motion detectors, timers, and even choosing the proper “temperature” of new LED light replacements to avoid the harsh “pure white” glare that many new streetlamps possess. Their pages on community advocacy and on how to choose dark-sky-friendly lighting are extremely helpful and full of great information. There are even local chapters of the IDA in many communities made up of passionate advocates of dark skies.DarkSky International has notably helped usher in “Dark Sky Places“, areas around the world that are protected from light pollution. “Dark Sky Parks“, in particular, provide visitors with incredible views of the Milky Way and are perfect places to spot the wonders of a meteor shower. These parks also perform a very important function, showing the public the wonders of a truly dark sky to many people who may have never before even seen a handful of stars in the sky, let alone the full, glorious spread of the Milky Way. More research into the negative effects of light pollution on the health of humans and the environment is being conducted than ever before. Watching the nighttime light slowly increase in your neighborhood, combined with reading so much bad news, can indeed be disheartening! However, as awareness of light pollution and its negative effects increases, more people are becoming aware of the problem and want to be part of the solution. There is even an episode of PBS Kid’s SciGirls where the main characters help mitigate light pollution in their neighborhood!Astronomy clubs are uniquely situated to help spread awareness of good lighting practices in their local communities in order to help mitigate light pollution. Take inspiration from Tucson, Arizona, and other dark sky-friendly communities that have adopted good lighting practices. Tucson even reduced its skyglow by 7% after its own citywide lighting conversion, proof that communities can bring the stars back with smart lighting choices.
    Originally posted by Dave Prosper: November 2018Last Updated by Kat Troche: January 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Suspicious fires at Penfield

    Source: South Australia Police

    Police are investigating a series of fires in the Penfield area overnight.

    Just after midnight (8 February) police and fire crews responded to reports of a truck fire on Heaslip Road, Penfield, near the Northern Expressway.

    The truck fire was extinguished before it could spread to nearby grass.

    Emergency services were then called to two other grass fires in Robert Road, Penfield Gardens and Argent Road, Penfield.  Again, fire crews managed to quickly extinguish the flames.

    Witnesses reported seeing a vehicle leaving the scene of the fires.

    Following investigations, a short time later Police attended an Elizabeth East address and arrested a suspect.

    The 20-year-old Elizabeth East man was arrested and charged with arson and cause a bushfire.  He was refused police bail and is expected to appear in the Elizabeth Magistrates Court on Monday.

    Anyone who saw any suspicious activity in the area or has any CCTV or dashcam footage that may assist the investigation is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Golden Moon over the Superdome

    Source: NASA

    The full moon rises over the Superdome and the city of New Orleans, Louisiana on Monday evening, January 13, 2025.
    New Orleans is home to NASA’s Michoud Assembly Facility where several pieces of hardware for the SLS (Space Launch system) are being built. For more than half a century, NASA Michoud has been “America’s Rocket Factory,” the nation’s premiere site for manufacturing and assembly of large-scale space structures and systems.
    See more photos from NASA Michoud.
    Image credit: NASA/Michael DeMocker

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Trimble Releases Security Updates to Address a Vulnerability in Cityworks Software

    News In Brief – Source: US Computer Emergency Readiness Team

    CISA is collaborating with private industry partners to respond to reports of exploitation of a vulnerability (CVE-2025-0994) discovered by Trimble impacting its Cityworks Server AMS (Asset Management System). Trimble has released security updates and an advisory addressing a recently discovered a deserialization vulnerability enabling an external actor to potentially conduct remote code execution (RCE) against a customer’s Microsoft Internet Information Services (IIS) web server. 

    CISA has added CVE-2025-0994 to its Known Exploited Vulnerabilities Catalog, based on evidence of active exploitation. 

    CISA strongly encourages users and administrators to search for indicators of compromise (IOCs) and apply the necessary updates and workarounds. 

    Review the following article for more information: 

    The Symantec Threat Hunter team, part of Broadcom, contributed to this guidance. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Explores Earth Science with New Navigational System

    Source: NASA

    NASA and its partners recently tested an aircraft guidance system that could help planes maintain a precise course even while flying at high speeds up to 500 mph. The instrument is Soxnav, the culmination of more than 30 years of development of aircraft navigation systems.
    NASA’s G-IV aircraft flew its first mission to test this navigational system from NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California, in December 2024. The team was composed of engineers from NASA Armstrong, NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California, and the Bay Area Environmental Research Institute (BAERI) in California’s Silicon Valley.
    “The objective was to demonstrate this new system can keep a high-speed aircraft within just a few feet of its target track, and to keep it there better than 90% of the time,” said John Sonntag, BAERI independent consultant co-developer of Soxnav.
    With 3D automated steering guidance, Soxnav provides pilots with a precision approach aid for landing in poor visibility. Previous generations of navigational systems laid the technical baseline for Soxnav’s modern, compact, and automated iteration.
    “The G-IV is currently equipped with a standard autopilot system,” said Joe Piotrowski Jr., operations engineer for the G-IV. “But Soxnav will be able to create the exact level flight required for Next Generation Airborne Synthetic Aperture Radar (AirSAR-NG) mission success.”

    Guided by Soxnav, the G-IV may be able to deliver better, more abundant, and less expensive scientific information. For instance, the navigation tool optimizes observations by AirSAR-NG, an instrument that uses three radars simultaneously to observe subtle changes in the Earth’s surface. Together with the Soxnav system, these three radars provide enhanced and more accurate data about Earth science.
    “With the data that can be collected from science flights equipped with the Soxnav instrument, NASA can provide the general public with better support for natural disasters, tracking of food and water supplies, as well as general Earth data about how the environment is changing,” Piotrowski said.
    Ultimately, this economical flight guidance system is intended to be used by a variety of aircraft types and support a variety of present and future airborne sensors. “The Soxnav system is important for all of NASA’s Airborne Science platforms,” said Fran Becker, project manager for the G-IV AirSAR-NG project at NASA Armstrong. “The intent is for the system to be utilized by any airborne science platform and satisfy each mission’s goals for data collection.”
    In conjunction with the other instruments outfitting the fleet of airborne science aircraft, Soxnav facilitates the generation of more abundant and higher quality scientific data about planet Earth. With extreme weather events becoming increasingly common, quality Earth science data can improve our understanding of our home planet to address the challenges we face today, and to prepare for future weather events.
    “Soxnav enables better data collection for people who can use that information to safeguard and improve the lives of future generations,” Sonntag said.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Agriculture Recovery Center to Open Friday in Ashe County

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Agriculture Recovery Center to Open Friday in Ashe County

    Agriculture Recovery Center to Open Friday in Ashe County

    HICKORY, N.C. – A one-day Agriculture Recovery Center will operate in Ashe County Friday at Wilkes Community College-Ashe Campus (Kent Poe Hall) to help farmers recover from Tropical Storm Helene.Two other centers will operate this week in Avery and Yancey counties. All centers are open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.These walk-through events will provide information on addressing agricultural or rural needs that are not covered by standard programs offered by FEMA or the state and offer opportunities for farmers, ranchers, nursery owners, vineyards, honeybee growers and fish producers to meet with agricultural officials to learn about specific assistance available as they recover.  The centers have representatives from FEMA, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, North Carolina Department of Commerce and Natural Resources, U.S. Small Business Administration, local Farm Service Agency offices and other government agencies.  Farmers are asked to bring documentation of ownership, photos of damaged or lost tools and equipment, along with estimated replacement costs to expedite an application.  For more information: Help for Self-Employed.The schedule: Feb. 5Avery County:Avery Cooperative Extension Office661 Vale Rd.Newland, NC  28657 Feb. 6Yancey CountyYancey County Senior Center503 Medical Campus Dr.Burnsville, NC 28714 Feb. 7Ashe CountyWilkes Community College-Ashe Campus (Kent Poe Hall)363 Campus Dr.West Jefferson, NC 28694
    joseph.arbid
    Fri, 02/07/2025 – 13:38

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: In North Carolina, 153,000 Families Receiving FEMA Help

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency 2

    strong>HICKORY, N.C. – In 39 counties, including the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, more than 153,000 households are being helped by FEMA assistance as they recover from Tropical Storm Helene.
    Four months after the catastrophic storm, individuals and families have received rental assistance, money for basic repairs to their homes, sheltering in hotels, temporary housing in FEMA-provided mobile homes and travel trailers, funds for replacement of essential personal property, money for serious needs, and other assistance.
    Here are some ways that FEMA is working with the state of North Carolina and local communities to provide support:

    2,596 households are currently staying in FEMA-paid hotels; 10,648 have checked out.
    3,284 households have received rental assistance.
    150 households are currently living in FEMA-provided temporary housing units.
    18,000 households have received money to make basic repairs to a damaged primary home.
    5,000 households have received funds to repair private roads and bridges.
    106,000 FEMA inspections have been issued to assess damage to primary residences.
    138,000 homes have been visited by FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance crews.
    66,000 people have visited a Disaster Recovery Center.
    1,800 households have been provided three years of flood insurance, paid for by FEMA.

    FEMA is only one part of federal disaster recovery support for North Carolina. The National Flood Insurance Program has paid $123 million in claims resulting from Helene. The U.S. Small Business Administration has made $108.6 million in low-interest disaster loans to North Carolinians. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is working with the state and communities on debris removal. To date, 4 million cubic yards of debris has been removed from public rights of way, 2.8 million by state contractors and 1.2 million by federal contractors, and waterway debris removal is in full execution by the Corps of Engineers.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: PSA: Earvin “Magic” Johnson warns Los Angeles fire victims about property predators

    Source: US State of California 2

    Feb 7, 2025

    LOS ANGELES — Governor Gavin Newsom, LA28 Chairperson and President Casey Wasserman, Dodgers Chairman Mark Walter, and NBA legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson have teamed up through LA Rises to release a new PSA warning fire victims about predatory real estate speculators, and highlighting protections under the Governor’s recent executive order. The order bans unsolicited, undervalued offers for three months in fire-affected communities to prevent opportunistic investors from exploiting families in crisis.

    “Too many of you are getting hit up out of the blue by people making unasked-for, lowball offers on your property. You do not need to take these offers. This is your land, and you know what it’s worth.” 

    “Those kinds of offers are currently illegal, because of Governor Gavin Newsom’s executive order – and if you get one, you can report it to law enforcement agencies, like the LA District Attorney or the California Attorney General.”

    Earvin “Magic” Johnson

    The PSA, which can be downloaded here for TV networks to air statewide, features Magic Johnson urging homeowners to beware of predatory investors and know their rights under the Governor’s new order. In the video, Johnson emphasizes the importance of protecting communities from displacement and ensuring families receive fair treatment as they navigate the recovery process.

    LA Rises, a unified recovery initiative co-chaired by Johnson, brings together private sector leaders to support rebuilding efforts in Los Angeles. The initiative also supports unified communication efforts to arm Angelenos with up-to-date, factual information, timelines for rebuilding, and available resources. 

    Governor’s order tackles predators

    The Governor’s executive order, issued earlier this month, bars opportunist and predatory investors from making unsolicited undervalue offers to those impacted by the firestorms to buy their land, taking advantage by offering fast cash for destroyed property. Specifically it:

    ✅ Makes unsolicited, undervalued offers to buy property unlawful for three months in fire-affected zip codes.
    ✅ Directs the Department of Real Estate and other agencies to provide public resources on homeowners’ rights and enforcement measures.
    ✅ Enables prosecution of violators by the Attorney General and local district attorneys.

    Report low-ball offers

    California law makes it a misdemeanor to violate a Governor’s order during a state of emergency, which can be prosecuted by the Attorney General or local district attorneys. To protect yourself and others from real estate speculation, contact your law enforcement agencies:

    California Attorney General’s Office:
    Violations can be reported at oag.ca.gov/report
    Phone: (800) 952-5225

    LA District Attorney’s Office: 
    Phone: (800) 380-3811 

    To submit a complaint, visit the California Department of Real Estate’s LA WildFire Updates page 

    Californians can go to CA.gov/LAfires – a hub for information and resources from state, local and federal government.

    Governor Newsom has issued a number of executive orders in response to the Los Angeles firestorms to help aid in rebuilding and recovery, create more temporary housing, and protect survivors from exploitation and price gouging. 

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    Feb 7, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom has made the recovery for Los Angeles his top priority – directing a whole-of-government response to support communities and survivors.  LOS ANGELES – In the one month following the Los Angeles firestorms, Governor Gavin…

    Feb 6, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom signed an executive order to launch key initiatives to continue adapting to future extreme firestorm events in urban communities and leading the way to build a more resilient state. Sacramento, California – Adding to…

    Feb 6, 2025

    News What you need to know: Building on yesterday’s positive meetings on Capitol Hill and with President Trump, Governor Newsom continued his bipartisan outreach in meetings with House and Senate leadership that focused on securing critical disaster aid for the…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: One month since LA firestorms: here are all the actions Governor Newsom has taken to support survivors

    Source: US State of California 2

    Feb 7, 2025

    What you need to know: Governor Newsom has made the recovery for Los Angeles his top priority – directing a whole-of-government response to support communities and survivors. 

    LOS ANGELES – In the one month following the Los Angeles firestorms, Governor Gavin Newsom has directed an aggressive and coordinated whole-of-government response to support those impacted. 

    The Governor deployed resources before the fires broke out – growing to over 16,000 boots on the ground at the peak of the state’s response. And in the hours that followed, Governor Newsom launched historic recovery and rebuilding efforts to help Los Angeles get back on its feet, faster. 

    Since the day these firestorms ignited, my Administration has been on the ground working to get survivors the support they need. Our goal is simple: a full recovery for the people of Los Angeles as fast as possible. We’re working closely with communities and the federal government to rebuild Los Angeles faster and stronger.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    By the numbers

    Launched historic recovery and rebuilding efforts — faster than ever before

    • Cutting red tape to help rebuild Los Angeles faster and stronger. Governor Newsom issued an executive order to streamline the rebuilding of homes and businesses destroyed — suspending permitting and review requirements under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the California Coastal Act. The Governor also issued an executive order further cutting red tape by reiterating that permitting requirements under the California Coastal Act are suspended for rebuilding efforts and directing the Coastal Commission not to issue guidance or take any action that interferes with or conflicts with the Governor’s executive orders. The Governor also issued an executive order removing bureaucratic barriers, extending deadlines, and providing critical regulatory relief to help fire survivors rebuild, access essential services, and recover more quickly.
    • Providing tax and mortgage relief to those impacted by the fires. California postponed the individual tax filing deadline to October 15 for Los Angeles County taxpayers. Additionally, the state extended the January 31, 2025, sales and use tax filing deadline for Los Angeles County taxpayers until April 30 — providing critical tax relief for businesses. Governor Newsom suspended penalties and interest on late property tax payments for a year, effectively extending the state property tax deadline. The Governor also worked with state– and federally-chartered banks that have committed to providing mortgage relief for survivors in certain zip codes.
    • Fast-tracking temporary housing and protecting tenants. To help provide necessary shelter for those immediately impacted by the firestorms, the Governor issued an executive order to make it easier to streamline construction of accessory dwelling units, allow for more temporary trailers and other housing, and suspend fees for mobile home parks. Governor Newsom also issued an executive order that prohibits landlords in Los Angeles County from evicting tenants for sharing their rental with survivors displaced by the Los Angeles-area firestorms.
    • Mobilizing debris removal and cleanup. With an eye toward recovery, the Governor directed fast action on debris removal work and mitigating the potential for mudslides and flooding in areas burned. He also signed an executive order to allow expert federal hazmat crews to start cleaning up properties as a key step in getting people back to their properties safely. The Governor also issued an executive order to help mitigate risk of mudslides and flooding and protect communities by hastening efforts to remove debris, bolster flood defenses, and stabilize hillsides in affected areas. 
    • Safeguarding survivors from price gouging. Governor Newsom expanded restrictions to protect survivors from illegal price hikes on rent, hotel and motel costs, and building materials or construction. Report violations to the Office of the Attorney General here.
    • Directing immediate state relief. The Governor signed legislation providing over $2.5 billion to immediately support ongoing emergency response efforts and to jumpstart recovery efforts for Los Angeles. California quickly launched CA.gov/LAfires as a single hub of information and resources to support those impacted and bolsters in-person Disaster Recovery Centers. The Governor also launched LA Rises, a unified recovery initiative that brings together private sector leaders to support rebuilding efforts. Governor Newsom announced that individuals and families directly impacted by the recent fires living in certain zip codes may be eligible to receive Disaster CalFresh food benefits.
    • Getting kids back in the classroom. Governor Newsom signed an executive order to quickly assist displaced students in the Los Angeles area and bolster schools affected by the firestorms.
    • Protecting victims from real estate speculators. The Governor issued an executive order to protect firestorm victims from predatory land speculators making aggressive and unsolicited cash offers to purchase their property.
    • Helping businesses and workers get back on their feet. The Governor issued an executive order to support small businesses and workers, by providing relief to help businesses recover quickly by deferring annual licensing fees and waiving other requirements that may impose barriers to recovery.

    Partnered with the federal government – across both administrations – to boost California’s rapid response

    • At the Governor’s request, President Biden approved a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration to support ongoing response efforts. The Major Disaster Declaration has been expanded to support communities with repairs or replacement of firestorm-damaged public facilities and infrastructure. 
    • In a cell phone call from the firestorm, Governor Newsom requested from President Biden additional federal assistance to cover 100% of California’s fire management and debris removal costs for 180 days, up from the traditional 75%.
    • Governor Newsom traveled to Washington, DC to meet with President Trump and members of Congress — focusing on securing critical disaster aid for survivors and ensuring impacted families who lost their homes and livelihoods have the support they need to rebuild and recover.

    Deployed unprecedented firefighting and first responder force – including early pre-positioning before the fire

    • At the peak of the state’s response, Governor Newsom deployed over 16,000 personnel, including firefighters, California National Guard service members, highway patrol officers and transportation teams. These efforts are supported by the biggest state investment in fire response in history — nearly doubled since the beginning of the administration. Response efforts include more than 2,000 pieces of firefighting equipment, including 1,490+ engines, 80+ aircraft, 200+ dozers and 210+ water tenders to aid in putting out the fires. The Governor deployed a surge of California Highway Patrol Special Response Teams to provide ongoing law enforcement capacity to further protect fire damaged communities in Los Angeles.
    • Governor Newsom ordered the activation of more than 2,500 California National Guard service members to augment firefighting operations and support local law enforcement to protect communities from looting. The Governor’s National Guard activation started with his emergency proclamation on Tuesday, January 7 with over 600 service members deployed. The Governor doubled the number of those deployed on January 11, and increased that by 1,000 the next day to a total of 2,500. Also strengthening public safety efforts, the Governor signed an executive order directing state agencies to support local law enforcement partners as they lift evacuation orders.   

    Find the Governor’s actions by day here.

    Featured, Press Releases

    Recent news

    Feb 6, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom signed an executive order to launch key initiatives to continue adapting to future extreme firestorm events in urban communities and leading the way to build a more resilient state. Sacramento, California – Adding to…

    Feb 6, 2025

    News What you need to know: Building on yesterday’s positive meetings on Capitol Hill and with President Trump, Governor Newsom continued his bipartisan outreach in meetings with House and Senate leadership that focused on securing critical disaster aid for the…

    Feb 6, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Gavin Newsom today announced he will issue an executive order to harden communities from wind-propelled wildfires that turn into urban firestorms.  Washington, D.C. — After meeting with key state and federal leaders on recovery…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 2025 Free Fishing Days

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul announced today the six designated Free Fishing Days in New York State, encouraging New Yorkers to get offline and get outside to enjoy these affordable outdoor recreation opportunities statewide. Free Fishing Days will take place on: Feb. 15-16 (Presidents’ Day Weekend), June 28-29, Sept. 27 (National Hunting and Fishing Day), and Nov. 11 (Veterans Day). During these days, the fishing license requirement is waived for freshwater fishing on New York’s waters.

    “Free Fishing Days in New York’s waters are a great, affordable way for residents and visitors to explore new places and provide an opportunity for anyone looking to get outside and enjoy nature,” Governor Hochul said. “Whether casting a line in freshwater lakes, ponds, streams, or rivers, New York offers some of the best fishing opportunities in the nation and allows for memorable fishing experiences that increase tourism and benefit the economy.”

    To help make fishing more affordable and help inspire the next generation of anglers, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has partnered with libraries across the state to provide a free fishing rod lending program. In addition to borrowing a book, library patrons can sign out a fishing rod. This program offers an opportunity for people to try fishing before purchasing their own gear. For more information and a list of participating libraries, visit the DEC’s website.

    New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar said, “Free Fishing Days offer a perfect opportunity to try fishing for the first time, introduce someone new to the sport, or reconnect with one of the most popular outdoor activities. The benefits associated with fishing extend beyond catching fish. Being near water has a positive impact on mental health and wellness and I encourage all New Yorkers to get outside this year and take advantage of New York’s Free Fishing Days.”

    The Free Fishing Days program began in 1991 to give people who might not fish a chance to try the rewarding sport of freshwater fishing at no cost, to introduce people to a new hobby, and to encourage people to support conservation by purchasing a New York State fishing license. Free fishing day participants are reminded that although the requirement for a freshwater fishing license is waived during free fishing days, all other fishing regulations remain in effect.

    The DEC offers a host of resources for those interested in getting started in fishing. The I FISH NY Beginners’ Guide to Freshwater Fishing provides information on everything from rigging up a fishing rod, to identifying catch, and understanding fishing regulations. There’s also a video series on the DEC’s YouTube channel that complements the Beginners’ Guide. The DEC’s Places to Fish webpages are a reliable source of information when planning your next fishing trip. The DEC’s official app, HuntFishNY, features “The Tackle Box,” which provides fishing regulations, boating access sites, and stocking information within a map-based interface, all from the convenience of a smartphone.

    Free Fishing Days offer New Yorkers a great opportunity to “Get Offline, Get Outside,” an initiative launched by Governor Hochul to promote physical and mental health by encouraging kids and families to put down their screens, take a break from social media, enjoy recreation and the outdoors, and put their mental and physical health first.

    In addition to Free Fishing Days, there are also “learn to fish” opportunities available through DEC-approved free fishing clinics at multiple locations. For a list of what’s currently scheduled visit the DEC website.

    Anglers looking to ice fish this winter are reminded to do so safely. Before leaving shore, anglers are advised to check the thickness of ice. Four inches of solid, clear ice is usually safe for anglers accessing ice on foot. However, ice thickness can vary between waterbodies and even within the same waterbody, increasing the need to ensure thickness. Additional information, including a list of waters open to ice fishing, can be found on the DEC ice fishing webpage, and also through the Tackle Box feature in The HuntFishNY app.

    The New York State Department of Health (DOH) provides advice to anglers about what fish are safe to eat and how often. Visit DOH’s website to search by waterbody location.

    Outside of free fishing days, anglers over the age of 16 must have a valid fishing license. For more information on purchasing a license visit the DEC website.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Kalispell man sentenced to prison for possessing stolen firearm

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MISSOULA — A Kalispell man who admitted to possessing a stolen gun was sentenced today to two years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.

    The defendant, Joseph Christopher Steele, 24, pleaded guilty in October 2024 to possession of a stolen firearm.

    U.S. District Judge Donald W. Molloy presided.

    In court documents, the government alleged that in December 2022, a man, identified as John Doe, filed a report with the Kalispell Police Department that his firearm safe containing a .45-caliber pistol and two magazines, along with the title to his pickup truck, had been stolen from his vehicle. Five days later, while investigating an unrelated incident, police officers found Doe’s stolen pickup title in a Subaru that also had been reported stolen. While being interviewed about the Subaru, Steele admitted he had been driving the vehicle but denied knowing it was stolen. Doe’s pickup title was not discussed. In January 2024, Whitefish Police Department officers executed a search warrant on Steele’s residence to locate evidence related to a stolen cell phone. Steele was on state probation at the time. During the search, officers located a pistol in a gun case with two magazines. Based on the gun’s serial number, officers determined the pistol was the firearm Doe had reported stolen.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The Kalispell and Whitefish police departments and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.

    XXX

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Nokia Corporation: Repurchase of own shares on 07.02.2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Nokia Corporation
    Stock Exchange Release
    7 February 2025 at 22:30 EET

    Nokia Corporation: Repurchase of own shares on 07.02.2025

    Espoo, Finland – On 7 February 2025 Nokia Corporation (LEI: 549300A0JPRWG1KI7U06) has acquired its own shares (ISIN FI0009000681) as follows:

    Trading venue (MIC Code) Number of shares Weighted average price / share, EUR*
    XHEL 1,400,000 4.64
    CEUX – –
    BATE – –
    AQEU – –
    TQEX – –
    Total 1,400,000 4.64

    * Rounded to two decimals

    On 22 November 2024, Nokia announced that its Board of Directors is initiating a share buyback program to offset the dilutive effect of new Nokia shares issued to the shareholders of Infinera Corporation and certain Infinera Corporation share-based incentives. The repurchases in compliance with the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) 596/2014 (MAR), the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052 and under the authorization granted by Nokia’s Annual General Meeting on 3 April 2024 started on 25 November 2024 and end by 31 December 2025 and target to repurchase 150 million shares for a maximum aggregate purchase price of EUR 900 million.

    Total cost of transactions executed on 7 February 2025 was EUR 6,492,780. After the disclosed transactions, Nokia Corporation holds 242,303,874 treasury shares.

    Details of transactions are included as an appendix to this announcement.

    On behalf of Nokia Corporation

    BofA Securities Europe SA

    About Nokia
    At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together.

    As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs which is celebrating 100 years of innovation.

    With truly open architectures that seamlessly integrate into any ecosystem, our high-performance networks create new opportunities for monetization and scale. Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future.

    Inquiries:

    Nokia Communications
    Phone: +358 10 448 4900
    Email: press.services@nokia.com
    Maria Vaismaa, Global Head of External Communications

    Nokia Investor Relations
    Phone: +358 931 580 507
    Email: investor.relations@nokia.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ECB publishes consolidated banking data for end-September 2024

    Source: European Central Bank

    7 February 2025

    Chart 1

    Total assets of credit institutions headquartered in the EU

    (EUR billions)

    Source: ECB

    Note: Data for all reference periods relate to the EU27.

    Data on the aggregate of total assets of credit institutions headquartered in the EU

    Chart 2

    Non-performing loans ratio of credit institutions headquartered in the EU

    (EUR billions; percentages)

    Source: ECB

    Note: Data for all reference periods relate to the EU27.

    Data on the aggregate non-performing loans ratio of credit institutions headquartered in the EU

    Chart 3

    Return on equity of credit institutions headquartered in the EU in September 2024

    (percentages)

    Source: ECB

    Note: Data for all reference periods relate to the EU27.

    Data on the aggregate return on equity of credit institutions headquartered in the EU

    Chart 4

    Common Equity Tier 1 ratio of credit institutions headquartered in the EU in September 2024

    (percentages)

    Source: ECB

    Note: Data for all reference periods relate to the EU27.

    Data on the aggregate Common Equity Tier 1 ratio of credit institutions headquartered in the EU

    The European Central Bank (ECB) has published consolidated banking data as at end-September 2024, a dataset for the EU banking system compiled on a group consolidated basis.

    The quarterly data provide information required to analyse the EU banking sector and comprise a subset of the information that is available in the year-end dataset. The September 2024 data cover 344 banking groups and 2349 stand-alone credit institutions and non-EU controlled subsidiaries and branches operating in the EU, accounting for nearly 100% of the EU banking sector’s balance sheet. They include an extensive range of indicators on profitability and efficiency, balance sheet composition, liquidity and funding, asset quality, asset encumbrance, capital adequacy and solvency.

    Reporters generally apply International Financial Reporting Standards and the European Banking Authority’s Implementing Technical Standards on Supervisory Reporting. However, some small and medium-sized reporters may apply national accounting standards. Accordingly, aggregates and indicators may include some data that are based on national accounting standards, depending on the availability of the underlying items.

    In addition to data as of end-September 2024, the published figures also include a few revisions to past data.

    For media queries, please contact Nicos Keranis, tel.: +49 69 1344 7806

    Notes

    • These consolidated banking data are available in the ECB Data Portal.
    • More information about the methodology used to compile the data is available on the ECB’s website.
    • Hyperlinks in the main body of the press release lead to data that may change with subsequent releases as a result of revisions.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: El Salvador: Ratification of the constitutional reform deepens the risk of human rights abuses

    Source: Amnesty International –

    The consolidation in El Salvador of a form of executive power without checks and balances is advancing rapidly. Ratification of the amendment of Article 248 of the country’s Constitution on 29 January 2025 constitutes a serious threat to the protection of human rights by drastically reducing space for debate and civic engagement in decisions of fundamental importance for the country. In this regard, Ana Piquer, Americas director at Amnesty International, stated:

    “Ratification of this constitutional reform poses a worrying risk of further erosion of human rights in El Salvador. By removing the requirement for constitutional amendments to be approved by two separate legislative assemblies, the ruling party guarantees a fast-track path to constitutional change without due deliberation processes or public participation. In a context where the independence of the judiciary and the right to a fair trial have been systematically eroded, this measure could pave the way for the implementation of reforms that further undermine the human rights of the population.”

    “Ratification of this constitutional reform poses a worrying risk of further erosion of human rights in El Salvador. (…) In a context where the independence of the judiciary and the right to a fair trial have been systematically eroded, this measure could pave the way for the implementation of reforms that further undermine the human rights of the population”

    -Ana Piquer, Americas director at Amnesty International

    From May 2021, with its absolute control over the legislative branch of government, the ruling party has pushed through legal reforms that have weakened access to justice, removed accountability mechanisms and suspended human rights for over 1000 days, such as the right to a fair trial and other guarantees of due process, under a state of emergency that included disproportionate measures and a series of criminal reforms that have resulted in the arbitrary detention of more than 84 000 persons.

    The removal of the requirement of two legislatures to reform the Constitution excludes the population from key processes in the formulation of the country’s legal framework and other measures that affect them. This amendment opens the way for future reforms that could continue to violate human rights and facilitates structural changes that could perpetuate impunity.

    “Constitutional reform must be based on broad consensus and guarantee control mechanisms that allow the people to exercise their right to meaningful participation in public affairs. This reform creates the conditions for future amendments to respond only to the interests of those in power, without a rigorous and broad debate and without any consideration for the rights of the population,” added Piquer.

    “Constitutional reform must be based on broad consensus and guarantee control mechanisms that allow the people to exercise their right to meaningful participation in public affairs. This reform creates the conditions for future amendments to respond only to the interests of those in power, without a rigorous and broad debate and without any consideration for the rights of the population”

    -Ana Piquer, Americas director at Amnesty International

    In view of this scenario, it is crucial that the international community continues to monitor the situation in El Salvador and demands that the Salvadoran state refrain from taking any measures that could jeopardize the human rights of the population or undermine the institutions that are responsible for guaranteeing and protecting these rights.

    See also: El Salvador: Constitution “à la carte” could deepen human rights crisis in coming years.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Israel/OPT: Release of Palestinian aid worker after nearly nine years of unjust imprisonment ends appalling miscarriage of justice

    Source: Amnesty International –

    The long overdue release of Palestinian aid worker and prisoner of conscience, Mohammed al-Halabi, as part of the prisoner-hostage exchange deal between Israel and Hamas, brings to an end his agonizing ordeal and a flagrant miscarriage of justice, said Amnesty International today, reiterating calls for the immediate release of all civilian hostages in Gaza and Palestinians arbitrarily detained in Israel.

    Al-Halabi, the former Gaza director of humanitarian aid and development organization World Vision, was arrested by the Israeli security agency at the Erez crossing between Israel and occupied Gaza on 15 June 2016. He was interrogated without a lawyer, tortured, tried in secret hearings and convicted after a grossly unfair trial based on undisclosed evidence that he had allegedly diverted  funds to Hamas. In August 2022, he was sentenced to 12 years in prison by the Beersheba District Court.

    Upon his release on 1 February 2025, al-Halabi showed visible signs of torture and starvation, including an alarming loss of weight.

    “Mohammed al-Halabi was unjustly targeted by Israeli authorities for his humanitarian work. He never should have been arrested in the first place, let alone been forced to spend almost nine years unlawfully imprisoned. The Kafkaesque proceedings against him, including his prolonged pretrial detention, the multiple postponements of his trial which lasted six years, and wrongful conviction, which heavily relied on a statement by a prisoner informant, were an appalling miscarriage of justice,” said Erika Guevara Rosas, Amnesty International’s Senior Director for Research, Advocacy, Policy and Campaigns.

    Mohammed al-Halabi was unjustly targeted by Israeli authorities for his humanitarian work. He never should have been arrested in the first place, let alone been forced to spend almost nine years unlawfully imprisoned.

    Erika Guevara Rosas, Amnesty International

    “Mohammed al-Halabi’s wrongful conviction must be quashed. The torture and other ill-treatment to which he was subjected both during interrogation and while in prison must be independently investigated and those responsible held accountable.” 

    “His horrifying ordeal behind bars demonstrates how Israel’s discriminatory justice system helps to maintain the cruel system of apartheid against Palestinians. It also underscores the urgent need for Israeli authorities to release all Palestinians who are arbitrarily detained in Israeli prisons.”

    Throughout the proceedings against him, the Israeli prosecution failed to substantiate allegations that al-Halabi was guilty of diverting funds to Hamas and the charges against him relied on “secret” evidence and a coerced statement by a prisoner informant. Despite enormous pressure, al-Halabi repeatedly refused to enter in any plea bargain which would have given him a significantly reduced sentence in exchange for “confessing” to charges that he vehemently denied.

    Speaking to Amnesty International after his release and return to his severely damaged home in Gaza City, al-Halabi said: “They [Israeli authorities] tortured me but never broke my spirit. I maintain my innocence of any of the charges levelled against me and I remain adamant to prove that in court even after my release.”

    He described how after 7 October 2023 he was transferred to Nafha prison in southern Israel where prisoners’ radios were confiscated, and most lawyer visits, were denied, as was any contact with family members or independent monitors. Throughout the 15 months of conflict, he was only able to receive scraps of news about his loved ones in Gaza on the one occasion he was able to meet with his lawyer.

    “That was the worst: not knowing whether my wife and children are alive, not knowing how they were coping? Have they been displaced? Have they been bombed? Will I ever see them again?  That was even worse than the starvation and torture that we were subjected to [in prison].”

    That was the worst: not knowing whether my wife and children are alive, not knowing how they were coping? Have they been displaced? Have they been bombed? Will I ever see them again? 

    Mohammed al-Halabi, Palestinian aid worker

    Al-Halabi also told Amnesty International that he is keen to resume his humanitarian work:

    “The need for humanitarian relief, the type of work I used to do before my arrest, is greater than ever. In previous wars, we used to divide damaged buildings into fully and partially destroyed, but when I went back to Jabalia refugee camp, [in North Gaza governorate] I found out that the category ‘partially destroyed’ is virtually nonexistent. Almost every building is flattened.”

    Al-Halabi expressed his gratitude for the public support he has received from all over the world since his arrest: “Even during my darkest hours, I knew that many people believed in my innocence, that supporters of justice were campaigning for my release. Their solidarity will always be engraved in my heart.”

    Background:

    On 30 August 2022, Mohammed al-Halabi was sentenced to 12 years in prison by the Beersheba District Court. He filed an appeal before the Israeli Supreme Court, acting as the High Court of Appeals, against his conviction and the appeal remained pending until his release on 1 February during the prisoner exchange deal between Israel and Hamas. Amnesty International designated him a prisoner of conscience in May 2023 concluding that Israeli authorities were targeting him to intimidate other human rights defenders and to shrink the space of humanitarian work in Gaza at the time.

    Mohammed al-Halabi was released in the fourth batch of a prisoner-hostage swap between Israel and Hamas. Amnesty International also reiterates its call on Hamas and other armed groups to immediately and unconditionally release all civilians held hostage in Gaza and for Israel to free all arbitrarily detained Palestinians, including those who have been forcibly disappeared or held incommunicado.

    For more information see: https://www.amnesty.org/en/documents/mde15/6714/2023/en/

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Sudan: Civilians at imminent risk of reprisal attacks as fighting rages in Khartoum and Darfur 

    Source: Amnesty International –

    As the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and Rapid Support Forces (RSF) escalate their fighting in Khartoum, Amnesty International has received alarming information, including reports of lists of potential targets, indicating that civilian activists, human rights defenders, medical workers and humanitarian workers are at imminent risk of deadly reprisal attacks.

    All parties to the conflict must not carry out reprisals on civilians or prisoners of war. Furthermore, both sides must cease targeting civilians and civilian areas with airstrikes or shelling.

    “Again and again in Sudan’s ongoing war, when the frontlines change, civilians have faced brutal reprisal attacks. This has included summary executions of accused collaborators by whichever side gains the upper hand. In Khartoum state, the SAF, RSF and their allies must protect civilians. Leadership of both sides must immediately and publicly order their troops and allies not to commit reprisals, and to allow safe passage for civilians to leave,” said Amnesty International’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, Tigere Chagutah.

    “Sudan’s international and regional partners including the UN, AU and others must apply pressure to ensure the two sides respect the rights of civilians and prisoners of war.”

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Sudan: Civilians at imminent risk of ‘deadly reprisals’ as forces escalate fighting in Khartoum

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Target lists reported to be circulating with activists, human rights and medical workers’ names on them

    All parties must stop attacking civilians and civilian areas

    ‘Leadership of both sides must immediately and publicly order their troops and allies not to commit reprisals, and to allow safe passage for civilians to leave’ – Tigere Chagutah

    Amnesty International has received reports of lists of potential targets indicating that civilian activists, human rights defenders, medical workers and humanitarian workers are at imminent risk of deadly reprisals as the Sudanese Armed Forces and Rapid Support Forces escalate their fighting in Khartoum.

    A Sudanese Armed Forces offensive has pushed the Rapid Support Forces out of some parts of Khartoum, Khartoum Bahri and Omdurman – the three cities where most people in Sudan’s Khartoum state live.

    Residents of Khartoum state fear retaliation following mass reprisals in the Gezira state capital Wad Madani by the Sudanese Armed Forces and allied forces after their capture of the city from the Rapid Support Forces in early January.

    The Rapid Support Forces must also stop targeting civilians and civilian areas. On 1 February it bombed a market in Omdurman, killing 54 people, according to the Ministry of Health and the Secretary General of Médecins Sans Frontières, who was there at the time.

    Targeting civilians and human rights defenders

    On 31 January, the UN Human Rights Office reported that at least 18 people, including one woman, were killed in incidents attributed to Sudanese Armed Forces-affiliated fighters and militia since Sudanese Armed Forces regained control of parts of Khartoum Bahri in late January and early February.

    Members of local Emergency Response Rooms, which are part of a nationwide network of youth humanitarian volunteers, told Amnesty that they were worried for the safety of their members given the recent pattern of violence against civilians and the inclusion of some of their members in some of the circulated lists. 

    Amnesty also received worrying reports of lists being circulated of people to be targeted as alleged “partners of the Rapid Support Forces”. The lists include the names of politicians, activists, medical workers, public prosecutors and members of protest groups.

    Although Amnesty is still working to verify the authenticity of the lists, given the fast-moving situation and repeated past violations by Sudanese Armed Forces and allied forces after gaining ground over the Rapid Support Forces, the organisation reiterates that all sides must not target civilians.

    All parties to the conflict must not carry out reprisals on civilians or prisoners of war and must cease targeting civilians and civilian areas with airstrikes or shelling.

    Tigere Chagutah, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, said:

    “Again and again in Sudan’s ongoing war, when the frontlines change, civilians have faced brutal reprisal attacks. This has included summary executions of accused collaborators by whichever side gains the upper hand.

    “In Khartoum state, Sudanese Armed Forces, Rapid Support Forces, and their allies must protect civilians. Leadership of both sides must immediately and publicly order their troops and allies not to commit reprisals, and to allow safe passage for civilians to leave.

    “Sudan’s international and regional partners including the UN, African Union and others must apply pressure to ensure the two sides respect the rights of civilians and prisoners of war.

    “We have seen in the past how the Sudanese Armed Forces and their allied militia have killed or arrested anyone labeled as Rapid Support Forces collaborators, including small business owners or volunteers in humanitarian Emergency Response Rooms and other activists and civilians. These deadly reprisals must not take place again as Sudanese Armed Forces advances in Khartoum state.

    “Conflating medical workers, legal workers, politicians, political parties, civil society and humanitarians with members of an armed group is extremely dangerous. Sudanese Armed Forces and its allies must immediately order their troops not to conduct any reprisals against civilians, including human rights defenders, humanitarians and prisoners of war.

    “No matter who is in control of an area, civilians are the ones targeted, and the risk spikes whenever territory changes hands. As the frontlines rapidly shift throughout Khartoum state, both sides have an absolute legal obligation to protect civilians. The leadership of the Sudanese Armed Forces and Rapid Support Forces may be criminally responsible if they fail to ensure their troops and allies do not harm civilians.”

    Both sides must also cease targeting of civilians, civilian areas and infrastructure amid increased fighting and airstrikes in Darfur around the cities of El Fasher, Nyala and elsewhere.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla Statement on President Trump’s Attempted Firing of Independent FEC Chair

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Padilla Statement on President Trump’s Attempted Firing of Independent FEC Chair

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration with oversight over federal elections, issued the following statement after President Trump moved to fire Ellen Weintraub, the chairwoman of the Federal Election Commission:
    “President Trump’s illegal attempt to remove Chair Weintraub is a disturbing effort to sweep away any remaining limits on the dark money flooding our elections. This follows an election where billionaires spent unprecedented sums to exert their influence — including Elon Musk’s nearly $300 million, which has earned him free rein to dismantle federal agencies.
    “The FEC was created by Congress 50 years ago following Watergate, and now we are seeing a new golden age of corruption. The American people want an independent campaign finance watchdog like Chair Weintraub — not more big money from billionaires trying to dominate our elections.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murray, Merkley, King, Heinrich Sound the Alarm Over National Parks Staffing Shortages Due to Trump’s Hiring Freeze

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Senate Appropriations Committee Vice Chair Patty Murray (D-WA), Senate Interior-Environment Appropriations Subcommittee Ranking Member Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Senate Energy and Natural Resources National Parks Subcommittee Ranking Member Angus King (I-ME), and Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Ranking Member Martin Heinrich (D-NM) urged newly confirmed U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Doug Burgum to immediately take action to resolve looming staffing shortages at the National Park Service.

    The letter follows President Trump’s hiring freeze, his cancellation of thousands of job offers for seasonal National Park Service employees, and his buyout offers made without clear legal authority. These actions pave the way for a damaging loss of staff at national parks across the nation in the coming summer months and beyond.

    “Without seasonal staff during this peak season, visitor centers may close, bathrooms will be filthy, campgrounds may close, guided tours will be cut back or altogether cancelled, emergency response times will drop, and visitor services like safety advice, trail recommendations, and interpretation will be unavailable,” wrote the Senators.

    “We are also alarmed that the administration’s offer of deferred resignation and voluntary early retirement, made without clear legal authority, as well as open threats about future terminations will lead to a damaging loss of full-time staff at the National Park Service, which is already operating well below prior staffing levels despite significant increases in visitation,” the Senators continued. “As a result of onerous budget caps during the 2010s, the National Park Service lost 15% of its staff while park visitation also increased by 15%. If a significant number of National Park Service employees take one of the offers – or further terminations are made – park staffing will be in chaos.  Not only does this threaten the full suite of visitor services, but could close entire parks altogether.”

    The Senators concluded, “Americans showing up to national parks this summer and for years to come don’t deserve to have their vacations ruined by a completely preventable – and completely irresponsible – staffing shortage. And local economies don’t deserve to have their livelihoods destroyed for political gain. We urge your cooperation in protecting national parks for the enjoyment of everyone by ensuring National Park Service staffing meets the needs of the 433 national park units in all 50 states.”

    In addition to Murray, Merkley, King, and Heinrich, the letter is signed by U.S. Senators Jon Ossoff (D-GA), John Fetterman (D-PA), Mark Warner (D-VA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), and John Hickenlooper (D-CO).

    Full text of the letter can be found by clicking HERE and follows below:

    Dear Secretary Burgum: 

    We urge you to immediately reissue seasonal employment offers for the National Park Service, officially rescind damaging and short-sighted deferred resignation and early retirement offers, and to instead work to safeguard, grow, and shape the National Park Service workforce to meet the needs of our national parks and their visitors.

    We are alarmed that the National Park Service revoked employment offers for seasonal staff for the upcoming summer season. Incoming seasonal staff – whose work is critical to managing the influx of visitors during the summer “peak season” – had offers in their hands that were yanked away just days after the inauguration.

    National Park Service rangers carry out a wide array of functions critical to protecting natural resources, keeping visitors safe, providing for recreation, and creating an inspiring and educational experience for visitors. National Park units experience a summer surge in visitation that peaks in July, and the Service hires more than 6,000 seasonal employees to manage that extra work. Without seasonal staff during this peak season, visitor centers may close, bathrooms will be filthy, campgrounds may close, guided tours will be cut back or altogether cancelled, emergency response times will drop, and visitor services like safety advice, trail recommendations, and interpretation will be unavailable. 

    We are also alarmed that the administration’s offer of deferred resignation and voluntary early retirement, made without clear legal authority, as well as open threats about future terminations will lead to a damaging loss of full-time staff at the National Park Service, which is already operating well below prior staffing levels despite significant increases in visitation. As a result of onerous budget caps during the 2010s, the National Park Service lost 15% of its staff while park visitation also increased by 15%. If a significant number of National Park Service employees take one of the offers – or further terminations are made – park staffing will be in chaos.  Not only does this threaten the full suite of visitor services, but could close entire parks altogether.

    Gutting staffing at national park units will devastate local “gateway” communities where parks generate significant economic activity – from hotels to restaurants to stores to outfitters. In 2023, an estimated 325 million park visitors spent an estimated $26.4 billion in local gateway regions, supporting an estimated 415,000 jobs and $55.6 billion in total economic output in the national economy.

    Americans showing up to national parks this summer and for years to come don’t deserve to have their vacations ruined by a completely preventable – and completely irresponsible – staffing shortage. And local economies don’t deserve to have their livelihoods destroyed for political gain. We urge your cooperation in protecting national parks for the enjoyment of everyone by ensuring National Park Service staffing meets the needs of the 433 national park units in all 50 states.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – EU-supported human rights violations against asylum seekers – E-002476/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The protection of human life and the respect for human rights and human dignity are fundamental principles of migration management, in line with obligations under EU and international law.

    In EU funded programmes, the Commission adopts a human rights-based approach, with human rights being considered in each phase of the project cycle.

    The Commission monitors EU funded programmes through several means, including regular reports from implementing partners, on the spot verifications, results oriented monitoring exercises and external evaluations.

    Furthermore, all contractual obligations include clauses, which entitle the Commission to suspend or terminate any contract if it has evidence that, or needs to verify whether, the beneficiary has breached any of its obligations. Respect of human rights is also reflected in the Commission’s dialogue with partner countries.

    The Commission, in close cooperation with the European External Action Service and EU Delegations, is currently reflecting on ways to further reinforce internal tools to strengthen the implementation of the human rights-based approach in all its interventions.

    In line with the President of the Commission political guidelines[1], the Commission will further reflect on new ways to counter irregular migration, while respecting international law and ensuring sustainable and fair solutions for the migrants themselves.

    Particular attention will be paid to the respect of fundamental rights, including the respect of the principle of non-refoulement.

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/e6cd4328-673c-4e7a-8683-f63ffb2cf648_en?filename=Political%20Guidelines%202024-2029_EN.pdf

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – EU counter-disinformation strategy – E-002504/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The High Representative/ Vice-President and the European External Action Service (EEAS) are aware of Russia’s use of disinformation in its hybrid campaigns against the EU and its partners.

    The EEAS has been instrumental for EU level efforts to counter this external security threat since 2015. It built up capability to detect, analyse and respond in collaboration with EU institutions, Member States and international partners, including via its Rapid Alert System.

    Building on this experience and aligned with the European Democracy Action Plan[1], Council conclusions on democratic resilience[2] and objectives set out in the Strategic Compass for Security and Defence[3], the Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference (FIMI) Toolbox[4] reinforces EU situational awareness, resilience and response, and international partnerships to tackle this threat. Exposing and responding to Russian FIMI operations and restrictive measures are part of the FIMI Toolbox.

    Regulation 2022/2065 (Digital Services Act)[5] along with the EU Code of Practice on Disinformation[6] provide tools to address FIMI while upholding fundamental rights including freedom of expression.

    The Commission and the EEAS conduct proactive information campaigns, including on EU support to Ukraine and countering Russia’s narratives on food security and energy issues.

    The Commission operates an internal Network Against Disinformation. The EEAS exposed Russian FIMI activities[7] and coordinates with international partners in G7, the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation and Ukraine.

    The new Democracy Shield[8] will strengthen EU situational awareness and its collective ability to detect, analyse and proactively counter threats.

    • [1] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_20_2250
    • [2] https://data.consilium.europa.eu/doc/document/ST-10119-2024-INIT/en/pdf
    • [3] https://data.consilium.europa.eu/doc/document/ST-1-2022-INIT/en/pdf
    • [4] https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/tackling-disinformation-foreign-information-manipulation-interference_en
    • [5] Regulation (EU) 2022/2065 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 October 2022 on a Single Market for Digital Services and amending Directive 2000/31/EC (Digital Services Act), OJ L 277, 27.10.2022, p. 1-102.
    • [6] https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/policies/code-practice-disinformation
    • [7] See for instance https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/1st-eeas-report-foreign-information-manipulation-and-interference-threats_en; https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/2nd-eeas-report-foreign-information-manipulation-and-interference-threats_en
    • [8] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/thinktank/en/document/EPRS_BRI(2024)767153
    Last updated: 7 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Georgia’s law on ‘transparency of foreign influence’ and its compliance with EU law and fundamental values – E-002521/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU has been following the developments in Georgia, including the adoption of the law on ‘transparency of foreign influence’ and its entry into force, with great concern.

    As underlined in the June and October 2024 European Council conclusions[1], Georgia’s democratic backsliding — marked notably by the adoption of the law ‘on transparency of foreign influence’ — has led to de facto halting Georgia’s accession process.

    This was also highlighted in the 2024 Enlargement report[2], which calls on Georgia to recommit to the nine steps and to repeal problematic laws, including the one on ‘transparency of foreign influence’.

    The EU has reacted with concrete measures. Direct assistance to the authorities and assistance to the armed forces under the European Peace Facility assistance measure 2024 have been suspended and political contacts with the Georgian authorities have been downgraded.

    The Foreign Affairs Council of November 2024[3] confirmed that the measures remain in place until the Georgian authorities recommit to the EU path with concrete actions, including by repealing the law on ‘transparency of foreign influence’.

    Developments in Georgia were discussed at the Foreign Affairs Council on 16 December 2024[4] and on 27 January 2025[5]. Several new measures were discussed and are being implemented.

    • [1] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/qa3lblga/euco-conclusions-27062024-en.pdf,
      https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/2pebccz2/20241017-euco-conclusions-en.pdf
    • [2] https://neighbourhood-enlargement.ec.europa.eu/document/download/7b6ed47c-ecde-41a2-99ea-41683dc2d1bd_en?filename=Georgia%20Report%202024.pdf
    • [3] https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/foreign-affairs-council-press-remarks-high-representative-josep-borrell-after-meeting-17_en
    • [4] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/meetings/fac/2024/12/16/
    • [5] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/meetings/fac/2025/01/27/
    Last updated: 7 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – EU funds used to deport asylum seekers and refugees from Türkiye to unsafe countries – E-002378/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    While Türkiye remains fully responsible for the situation and management of removal centres, in line with international and European standards, the Commission and the EU Delegation to Türkiye regularly carry out monitoring missions in the reception centres receiving EU financial assistance.

    The focus of the monitoring missions, which must be announced in advance, is on the delivery of EU-funded supplies and the efficiency of assistance provided.

    The findings of these missions, as well as the allegations from the press about the situation in the reception centres, were shared with the Turkish authorities in order for them to carry out investigations and take corrective measures where needed.

    The Council of Europe Special Rapporteur on Migration and Asylum[1] reported that EU financial assistance has contributed to improve the physical and material conditions in the reception centres.

    Respect for international and human rights law, including the principle of non-refoulement, are embedded in EU policies. The Commission remains firmly committed to these principles in the framework of policy dialogue with Türkiye and is monitoring very closely the human rights situation in the country, including the situation of refugees and migrants.

    • [1] https://rm.coe.int/report-of-the-fact-finding-mission-to-turkey/1680a4b673
    Last updated: 7 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Spanish Government’s dereliction of duty in applying for aid and other instruments to compensate the victims of the natural disaster in Valencia – P-002462/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    In the context of the devastating floods in eastern Spain, Spain proactively requested the activation of the EU Copernicus satellite mapping system[1] on 29 October 2024 and over 80 satellite maps have been produced.

    Spain also activated the EU Civil Protection Mechanism[2] on 8 November 20 24 and s everal other Member States offered support in that framework. The Commission also deployed two liaison officers.

    Spain can also apply for a financial contribution from the EU Solidarity Fund[3]. If and when adopted by co-legislators, Spain may also benefit from the flexibilities proposed under the cohesion policy framework in the framework of the recent legislative proposal on the Regional Emergency Support to Reconstruction[4].

    Within the European Social Fund Plus[5], flexibilities are proposed to provide immediate support for food and basic assistance, access to healthcare and financing of short-time work schemes .

    Support may be provided from other EU funding instruments, such as those under the common agricultural policy[6] including the mobilisation of the Agricultural Reserve or under the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development[7] for which the recent legislative proposal[8] also provides additional liquidity support to farmers, forest holders and small and medium-sized enterprises affected by natural disasters, still to be implemented under the Rural Development Programmes 2014 — 2022.

    The recovery and resilience plan of Spain can also be modified in line with the procedures of the Recovery and Resilience Facility[9] to introduce measures covering reconstruction efforts.

    It is the prerogative of the Member State concerned to decide whether and when to request EU assistance.

    • [1] https://emergency.copernicus.eu/mapping/#zoom=2&lat=13.56036&lon=33.82273&layers=0BT00
    • [2] https://civil-protection-humanitarian-aid.ec.europa.eu/what/civil-protection/eu-civil-protection-mechanism_en
    • [3] https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/funding/solidarity-fund_en
    • [4] Proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council RESTORE — Regional Emergency Support to Reconstruction amending Regulation (EU) 2021/1058 and Regulation (EU) 2021/1057, COM(2024) 496 final.
    • [5] https://european-social-fund-plus.ec.europa.eu/en
    • [6] https://agriculture.ec.europa.eu/common-agricultural-policy_en
    • [7] https://commission.europa.eu/funding-tenders/find-funding/eu-funding-programmes/european-agricultural-fund-rural-development-eafrd_en
    • [8] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=COM%3A2024%3A495%3AFIN
    • [9] https://commission.europa.eu/business-economy-euro/economic-recovery/recovery-and-resilience-facility_en
    Last updated: 7 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – EU response to the Scirtothrips aurantii infestation and citrus fruit imports from South Africa – E-000438/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000438/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Vicent Marzà Ibáñez (Verts/ALE)

    Scirtothrips aurantii is a pest that was first found in the EU in 2020. Since 2024, it has spread rapidly and is now infesting key crops such as citrus fruit, persimmon, grape and pomegranate in 325 Valencian municipalities. This pest, originally from South Africa and now found in other African countries, Australia and Yemen, most likely arrived in the EU through citrus fruit imports. It hits farmers in the pocket since the fruit now has a lower value, and increased plant health costs are currently borne by producers. Scirtothrips aurantii is included on EPPO’s A1 list and is classified as a quarantine pest in Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/2072.

    In light of this:

    • 1.What urgent measures will the Commission take to increase plant health checks on imports of plants from countries in which Scirtothrips aurantii is endemic, such as South Africa?
    • 2.Will a mandatory refrigeration be imposed for these imports and will Scirtothrips aurantii be added to the EU’s list of priority pests to ensure a more coordinated approach?
    • 3.Which clauses in the EU-SADC Economic Partnership Agreement will be activated to require more stringent certifications and treatments or checks at the point of origin for citrus imports?

    Submitted: 31.1.2025

    Last updated: 7 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Latest news – D-BR Delegation meeting of 6 February 2025 – Delegation for relations with the Federative Republic of Brazil

    Source: European Parliament

    The next meeting of the Delegation for relations with the Federative Republic of Brazil (D-BR) took place:

    Thursday 6 February 2025, 15.00-17.00, Room SPAAK 4B1

    The main points of the agenda were:

    • Exchange of views on artificial intelligence regulations and digital diplomacy in the European Union and in Brazil;
    • Exchange of views on the situation of the bilateral relations between the European Union and Brazil;

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