NewzIntel.com

Blog

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Security Council 2653 Sanctions Committee Adds 2 Entries to Its Sanctions List

    Source: United Nations 4

    On 8 July 2025, the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 2653 (2022) approved the addition of the entries specified below to its Sanctions List of individuals and entities subject to the measures imposed by the Security Council and adopted under Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations.

    B. Entities and other groups

    HTe.001 Name: GRAN GRIF
    Name (original script): na
    A.k.a: a) Gran Grif de Savien b) Savien gang c) Baz Gran Grif F.k.a.: na Address: Haiti Listed on: 08 Jul. 2025 Other information: Luckson Elan (HTi.007) is the leader of the Gran Grif gang.  INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice web link:  https://www.interpol.int/en/How-we-work/Notices/View-UN-Notices-Individuals.

    HTe.002 Name: VIV ANSANM  
    Name (original script): na
    A.k.a: a) Living Together b) G-9 c) G9 Family and Allies d) G9 Fanmi e Alye e) The Revolutionary Forces of the G9 Family and Allies f) Fòs Revolisyonè G9 an Fanmi e Alye g) G-Pèp h) G-People F.k.a.: na Address: Haiti Listed on: 08 Jul. 2025 Other information: Jimmy Chérizier (HTi.001) is the leader of the Viv Ansanm gang coalition.  INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice web link: https://www.interpol.int/en/How-we-work/Notices/View-UN-Notices-Individuals.

    Press releases concerning changes to the Committee’s Sanctions List may be found in the “Press Releases” section on the Committee’s website at the following URL:   https://main.un.org/securitycouncil/en/sanctions/2653/press-releases.

    The updated version of the Committee’s Sanctions List, available in HTML, PDF and XML format, may be found at the following URL:  https://main.un.org/securitycouncil/en/sanctions/2653/materials.

    The United Nations Security Council Consolidated List is also updated following all changes made to the Committee’s Sanctions List and is accessible at the following URL:  https://main.un.org/securitycouncil/en/content/un-sc-consolidated-list.

    For information media. Not an official record.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: AG’s Office wins $8.2M in penalties and consumer restitution in trial against repeat scammer

    Source: Washington State News

    Michigan defendants mailed nearly 600,000 deceptive solicitations for workplace posters to Washington businesses

    SEATTLE — A Michigan-based scammer that has been deceiving businesses for years was ordered to pay more than $8.2 million in penalties and consumer restitution following a lawsuit brought by the Washington State Attorney General’s Office.

    Following trial against Labor Law Poster Service and two of its principals, King County Superior Court Judge Maureen McKee imposed a $7.4 million penalty and awarded $850,000 in consumer restitution, plus interest, to the Attorney General’s Office. The court also ordered the defendants to pay the state’s attorney fees.

    For almost a decade, the company has illegally targeted tens of thousands of Washington small businesses by mass mailing deceptive solicitations. These mailings deceived business owners into purchasing workplace posters they were not obligated to buy. The letters mimicked legitimate government communications. Before trial, the court had already determined that each of the company’s nearly 600,000 solicitations were deceptive, and violated the Consumer Protection Act, and that co-owner Joseph Fata was personally liable for the unlawful conduct.

    The trial before Judge McKee focused on three issues: the personal liability of co-owner Justin Fata, the defendants’ violations of a 2016 injunction prohibiting them from engaging in the same deceptive conduct, and the amount of penalties and consumer restitution defendants would have to pay.

    Focusing primarily on the bad faith of these repeat offenders, Judge McKee imposed a $12 penalty for each of the nearly 600,000 mailers sent to Washington business owners—amounting to $7.1 million. The Court also awarded $850,000 in restitution for those small business owners who responded to the deceptive solicitations and purchased workplace posters—along with 12% in prejudgment interest. 

    The court also found the defendants violated a 2016 court order prohibiting them from sending deceptive solicitations in two ways: First by engaging in the prohibited conduct, and second by failing to distribute the 2016 order to the company’s employees.

    For years, the Fatas have treated adverse legal actions as the cost of doing business. This lawsuit represents the third time the state has taken enforcement action against the Fatas’ operations, first in 2008 and again in 2016. The 2016 action resulted in an order requiring defendants to pay $1.2 million in civil penalties, restitution, and attorneys’ fees.

    Assistant Attorneys General Zorba Leslie, Kelsey Burazin and Michael Bradley, Paralegals Mary Barber, Ashley Totten, KC Winfield, Anne Wallig, and Vick Walker all handled the case for Washington.

    -30-

    Washington’s Attorney General serves the people and the state of Washington. As the state’s largest law firm, the Attorney General’s Office provides legal representation to every state agency, board, and commission in Washington. Additionally, the Office serves the people directly by enforcing consumer protection, civil rights, and environmental protection laws. The Office also prosecutes elder abuse, Medicaid fraud, and handles sexually violent predator cases in 38 of Washington’s 39 counties. Visit www.atg.wa.gov to learn more.

    Media Contact:

    Email: press@atg.wa.gov

    Phone: (360) 753-2727

    General contacts: Click here

    Media Resource Guide & Attorney General’s Office FAQ

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department Files Statement of Interest in Illinois Case Concerning States’ Obligations Under the National Voter Registration Act

    Source: US State of California

    Today, the Justice Department filed a Statement of Interest in Judicial Watch v. Illinois State Board of Elections, regarding the requirements under the National Voter Registration Act (NVRA) for states to make reasonable efforts to remove the names of ineligible voters and to make their voter registration list available for public inspection.  The requirement for states to make a “reasonable effort” to clean their voter rolls means that the program should be effective in achieving the goals set out by Congress, and nothing less.

    “It is critical to remove ineligible voters from the registration rolls so that elections are conducted fairly, accurately, and without fraud,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Under the NVRA, states have the responsibility to conduct a robust program of list maintenance. The Department of Justice will vigorously enforce those requirements to ensure compliance.”

    More information about voting and elections is available on the Justice Department’s website at www.justice.gov/voting. Complaints about possible violations of federal voting rights laws can be submitted through the Civil Rights Division’s website at civilrights.justice.gov or by telephone at 1-800-253-3931.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Doc Antle, Owner of Myrtle Beach Safari, Sentenced for Federal Wildlife Trafficking and Money Laundering Charges

    Source: US State of California

    Co-Defendants Also Sentenced; Woman Pleads Guilty in Related Case for Unlawfully Selling Chimpanzees to Antle

    Bhagavan “Doc” Antle, of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina — who was featured in a popular Netflix documentary — was sentenced today to 12 months in prison after pleading guilty to a conspiracy to violate the Lacey Act and launder more than $500,000 for what he believed to be an operation to smuggle illegal immigrants into the United States across the Mexico border. Antle was also ordered to pay a $55,000 fine, serve three years of supervised release, and forfeit three chimpanzees and more than $197,000 to the government.

    Two of Antle’s co-defendants were recently sentenced for their separate involvement in either the Lacey Act or money laundering conspiracy. A defendant in a related case recently pleaded guilty to illegally selling a newborn chimpanzee to Antle.

    “Today’s sentence holds Doc Antle and his co-defendants accountable for activity they knew was unlawful and unethical,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD). “They illegally purchased and sold newborn endangered wildlife even as they laundered more than $500,000 in smuggling money — all while promoting themselves as conservationists.”

    “Doc Antle portrayed himself as a conservationist. But in reality, he was a key player in the illegal chimpanzee trade, and he laundered more than half a million dollars through a complex web of deceit,” said U.S. Attorney Bryan Stirling for the District of South Carolina. “We are grateful to our law enforcement partners for their work in bringing the defendant to justice for both of these federal crimes.”

    “These sentences should send a clear message: the FBI and our partners will not tolerate those who attempt to violate our laws,” said Special Agent in Charge Kevin Moore of the FBI Columbia Field Office. “We remain firmly committed to investigating and holding accountable individuals whose illegal actions threaten our financial systems and put protected species at risk.”

    “This case underscores the grave criminal threat posed by wildlife traffickers who not only exploit vulnerable species for profit but also use sophisticated money laundering tactics to conceal their crimes,” said Assistant Director Douglas Ault of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement. “Our special agents uncovered a complex network of illicit activity involving the trafficking of endangered animals — including baby chimpanzees and cheetahs — falsified documentation, and the laundering of hundreds of thousands of dollars through purported nonprofit organizations. These traffickers operated under the false pretense of conservation, betraying both the law and public trust. We remain unwavering in our commitment to dismantling such networks and bringing those responsible to justice.”

    The wildlife conspiracy outlined various schemes Antle used to hide his illegal trafficking in endangered species, including requiring payments to be “donations” funneled through his non-profit, The Rare Species Fund; conducting transactions in bulk cash to hide their true nature; and creating false paperwork to hide the illegality of his wildlife transactions. The animals trafficked included baby chimpanzees, cheetahs, lions, and tigers, all of which are protected under both the Endangered Species Act and international treaties. The Lacey Act prohibits trafficking of illegally taken wildlife, fish or plants, including animals protected under the Endangered Species Act.

    Antle’s co-defendant in the wildlife conspiracy, Jason Clay, was recently sentenced to four months in prison, four months home confinement, and to pay a $4,000 fine into the Lacey Act Reward Fund. In 2019, Clay illegally sold a juvenile chimpanzee to Antle in exchange for $200,000 in cash and a juvenile gibbon. 

    As for the money laundering conspiracy, Antle and a co-defendant laundered more than $500,000 in cash between February and April 2022 that were represented to be proceeds from an operation to smuggle illegal immigrants across the Mexican border into the United States. Evidence presented to the court showed that Antle planned to conceal the cash he received by writing checks for what appeared to be construction-related services for Myrtle Beach Safari, which he owned and operated, and which was featured in the Netflix documentary. The Myrtle Beach Safari is a 50-acre for-profit zoo that offers tours and private encounters with exotic wildlife.

    Antle’s co-defendant in the money laundering conspiracy, Andrew Sawyer, was recently sentenced to serve two years of probation including eight months of home detention. He also forfeited nearly $185,000 to the government and a chimpanzee.

    In a different Lacey Act violation case connected to Antle, Shaylynn Kolwyck-Peterson pleaded guilty last month to illegally selling a chimpanzee to Antle in 2022 for $200,000. The Kolwyck family owns and manages the private Sunshine Zoological Preserve LLC in north Florida. The facility is believed to be the only one in the United States breeding chimpanzees for private or non-scientific purposes.

    The FBI and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service investigated the case.

    Senior Trial Attorney Patrick M. Duggan of ENRD’s Environmental Crimes Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Bower for the District of South Carolina prosecuted the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: US Department of Labor cites Orlando aerospace facility for safety, health failures after fire injures workers

    Source: US Department of Labor

    ORLANDO, FL – The U.S. Department of Labor has cited an Orlando target-missile manufacturer for exposing workers to fire, burn, and inhalation hazards, after a December 2024 fire at its facility, hospitalizing two employees and injuring others. 

    Investigators with the department’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration found that two employees of Aerojet Rocketdyne Coleman Aerospace Inc. were severely burned, and another sustained injuries from burns and smoke inhalation while they worked on a missile component. OSHA also determined that the employer exposed other workers to burn and inhalation hazards from incorrectly stored and handled explosives and from failing to classify the physical hazards of a highly reactive chemical.

    Aerojet Rocketdyne was cited with one willful and six serious violations, with proposed penalties totaling $262,451.

    The employer has 15 business days from receipt of the citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission. 

    Learn more about OSHA. Employers can also contact the agency for information about OSHA’s compliance assistance resources and for free help on complying with OSHA standards.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Serious shortcomings in the clothing collection system of fashion chains in the Netherlands – E-001962/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    As recognised by the EU Strategy for Sustainable and Circular Textiles[1], the Commission has introduced the following initiatives to address the challenges associated with the exports of used textiles and textile waste: a targeted revision of the Waste Framework Directive (WFD)[2], for which a provisional agreement was reached on 18 February 2025; the new Waste Shipment Regulation (WSR)[3], and the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR)[4].

    The WFD introduces Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for textiles, making producers accountable for the products they make available on the EU market.

    Under EPR, Producer Responsibility Organisations, in line with the waste hierarchy, are expected to organise the collection of used textiles and textile waste, and the operations for re-use, preparing for reuse and recycling. Additionally, the WFD establishes new requirements for the sorting of separately collected textiles prior to their shipment as used textiles.

    The WSR complements the WFD by ensuring that exports of textile waste are managed in an environmentally sound manner. Different rules apply to exports to Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and non-OECD countries.

    Non-OECD countries can continue receiving textile waste only if they notify the Commission of their intention to import EU waste and demonstrate their ability to deal with it in a sustainable manner .

    The ESPR introduces a ban on the destruction of unsold textiles, aimed at preventing the overproduction of textiles and their potential export to third countries.

    These initiatives should ensure that only used textiles of appropriate quality reach Third Countries, meeting the demand for affordable second-hand clothing from the EU.

    • [1] https://environment.ec.europa.eu/strategy/textiles-strategy_en.
    • [2] Directive 2008/98/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 November 2008 on waste and repealing certain Directives, OJ L 312, 22.11.2008, p. 3-30, as amended by Directive (EU) 2018/851 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 May, OJ L 150, 14.6.2018, p. 109-140.
    • [3] Regulation (EU) 2024/1157 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 April 2024 on shipments of waste, amending Regulations (EU) No 1257/2013 and (EU) 2020/1056 and repealing Regulation (EC) No 1013/2006.
    • [4] Regulation (EU) 2024/1781 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 June 2024 establishing a framework for the setting of ecodesign requirements for sustainable products, amending Directive (EU) 2020/1828 and Regulation (EU) 2023/1542 and repealing Directive 2009/125/EC.
    Last updated: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – European Court of Auditors’ Special Report 11/2025: consequences of unduly paying grants to organisations wrongly categorised as NGOs – E-002046/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission refers to its replies to the European Court of Auditor’s (ECA) Special Report 11/2025, relating to non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in internal policies[1].

    As acknowledged by the ECA[2], the co-legislators only agreed on the introduction of a definition of an NGO in the Financial Regulation in September 2024[3], while the audit scope covered funding for EU internal policies for the 2021-2023 period.

    In the light of the 2025 recommendations of the ECA, the Commission will explore whether this recent definition of an NGO should and could be further clarified.

    Any clarification should be proportionate, given there is no indication that the NGO status poses a higher risk for the EU budget, compared to other types of entities.

    When it comes to receiving EU funding, NGOs are no different from other applicants. They are subject to fulfilling the necessary eligibility requirements and having an NGO status does not entail any preferential treatment, nor is it an eligibility criterion in itself, aside from a few very specific cases.

    Therefore, having or not the status of an NGO is in principle not relevant for receiving EU funding.

    • [1] https://www.eca.europa.eu/Lists/ECAReplies/COM-Replies-SR-2025-11/COM-Replies-SR-2025-11_EN.pdf.
    • [2] https://www.eca.europa.eu/lists/ecadocuments/annualreport-performance-2021/annualreport-performance-2021_en.pdf p. 162, and https://www.eca.europa.eu/ECAPublications/SR-2025-11/SR-2025-11_EN.pdf paragraph 5.
    • [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=OJ:L_202402509.
    Last updated: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – European Court of Auditors’ Special Report 11/2025: consequences of unduly paying grants to organisations wrongly categorised as NGOs – E-002046/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission refers to its replies to the European Court of Auditor’s (ECA) Special Report 11/2025, relating to non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in internal policies[1].

    As acknowledged by the ECA[2], the co-legislators only agreed on the introduction of a definition of an NGO in the Financial Regulation in September 2024[3], while the audit scope covered funding for EU internal policies for the 2021-2023 period.

    In the light of the 2025 recommendations of the ECA, the Commission will explore whether this recent definition of an NGO should and could be further clarified.

    Any clarification should be proportionate, given there is no indication that the NGO status poses a higher risk for the EU budget, compared to other types of entities.

    When it comes to receiving EU funding, NGOs are no different from other applicants. They are subject to fulfilling the necessary eligibility requirements and having an NGO status does not entail any preferential treatment, nor is it an eligibility criterion in itself, aside from a few very specific cases.

    Therefore, having or not the status of an NGO is in principle not relevant for receiving EU funding.

    • [1] https://www.eca.europa.eu/Lists/ECAReplies/COM-Replies-SR-2025-11/COM-Replies-SR-2025-11_EN.pdf.
    • [2] https://www.eca.europa.eu/lists/ecadocuments/annualreport-performance-2021/annualreport-performance-2021_en.pdf p. 162, and https://www.eca.europa.eu/ECAPublications/SR-2025-11/SR-2025-11_EN.pdf paragraph 5.
    • [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=OJ:L_202402509.
    Last updated: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Enforcement of CJEU judgments of 4 October 2024 – E-002615/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002615/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Cristina Maestre (S&D), Eric Sargiacomo (S&D)

    On 4 October 2024, the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) ruled that, so as not to mislead consumers, agricultural products imported into the EU must be labelled to distinguish between those from Western Sahara and from Morocco. In October, moreover, the suspension period for the rulings annulling the trade agreements on fisheries and agriculture concluded between the European Union and Morocco will lapse.

    Considering the above:

    • 1.What is the European Commission’s strategy to ensure compliance with the obligation to label products from Western Sahara?
    • 2.What measures will the European Commission propose to ensure that the new agricultural agreement with Morocco effectively protects EU tomato producers from competition and the lack of reciprocity in respect of Moroccan tomato imports?

    Submitted: 30.6.2025

    Last updated: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Hungary’s amendment on monitoring, sanctioning and banning civil society actors – E-002627/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002627/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Li Andersson (The Left), Merja Kyllönen (The Left), Jussi Saramo (The Left), Jonas Sjöstedt (The Left), Hanna Gedin (The Left), Per Clausen (The Left)

    On 13 May 2025, an amendment was tabled in the Hungarian Parliament that would grant the authorities extensive powers to monitor, sanction or ban civil society actors, political movements, trade unions and media actors.

    The proposal classifies organisations in receipt of foreign funding as a threat to Hungary’s national security and sovereignty. The amendment’s definition of targeted actors is vague. Once blacklisted, organisations would require authorisation to receive foreign funding, including EU funds, and would lose access to donations via the Hungarian tax system – a vital source of support.

    The bill states that activities influencing public opinion on matters such as national identity or family values, or presenting them in a ‘negative light’, would be punishable. Sanctions include administrative fines of up to 25 times the amount of foreign funding received, with non-payment resulting in a ban.

    Hungarians have protested, highlighting that the amendment poses a threat to democratic rights. The EU should also put forward this message more decisively.

    Therefore, we ask:

    • 1.what measures is the Commission taking in response to Hungary’s systematic violation of EU fundamental values and legislation?
    • 2.if the amendment is adopted, will the Commission propose that the Council initiate proceedings to suspend Hungary’s voting rights under Article 7 of the Treaty on European Union?

    Submitted: 30.6.2025

    Last updated: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Disproportionate impact of EU building renovation rules on homeowners – E-002643/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002643/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Markus Buchheit (ESN)

    The revised Energy Performance of Buildings Directive will force millions of homeowners to undertake costly renovations. These one-size-fits-all rules place a massive financial burden on ordinary citizens, especially in countries such as Germany where home ownership is high[1].

    Such green regulations, driven by ideological goals, risk deepening social inequality and eroding public trust in the EU.

    • 1.How does the Commission plan to protect homeowners from the heavy financial burden imposed by mandatory renovation obligations in the revised directive?
    • 2.Has the Commission assessed the social impact of these measures on middle- and low-income citizens, particularly in Member States with high rates of private home ownership?
    • 3.Will the Commission introduce exemptions, support schemes or national flexibility to avoid backlash and further disconnect between EU policies and citizens?

    Submitted: 30.6.2025

    • [1] British journalists have started to think about the new UK Energy Performance Certificates, based on EU Directives (https://bebeez.eu/2025/06/17/are-epcs-destined-to-fail).
    Last updated: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – EU subsidy for South African winegrowing: more unacceptable mismanagement given the crisis in the European wine sector – E-002668/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002668/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Jordan Bardella (PfE)

    The EU wine industry is facing a major crisis, with falling consumption, global competition and the potential closure of its main export markets. It is therefore beyond comprehension that the EU has decided to prop up the South African wine sector to the tune of EUR 15 million. Taken without any consultation of EU stakeholders, this decision shows complete disregard for the legitimate demands of European wine producers, who have for months been calling for concrete and urgent support.

    Financing the development of direct competitors, while refusing to allocate additional resources to Europe’s producers, is not only unfair, but also undermines the economic and cultural sovereignty of our wine heritage. With Europe refusing to adopt appropriate financial measures, this aid to South Africa is highly inflammatory.

    Does the Commission intend to suspend this aid and immediately boost the financial support measures for the EU’s crisis-hit wine industry?

    Submitted: 1.7.2025

    Last updated: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Ensuring GDPR compliance in the protection of minors online – E-002670/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002670/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Dan-Ştefan Motreanu (PPE)

    The European Data Protection Board (EDPB) welcomed the Commission’s draft guidelines on the protection of minors online, but raised significant concerns regarding their alignment with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). In particular, the EDPB warns that following the guidelines does not automatically guarantee GDPR compliance, especially in relation to age verification mechanisms.

    The Board criticises algorithmic age estimation methods for their high error rates and their potential infringement on users’ fundamental rights to data protection. It also highlights the importance of safeguarding minors’ rights to access digital spaces and of ensuring that any third-party software used by platforms is compliant and effective.

    Given these concerns:

    • 1.What concrete measures does the Commission plan to take to ensure that the final version of the guidelines fully upholds the principles of the GDPR?
    • 2.How will the Commission guarantee that online platforms, particularly those relying on third-party tools, implement age verification methods that are both effective and respectful of fundamental rights?

    Submitted: 1.7.2025

    Last updated: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The EU continuing to fund enemies of the Member States – E-002669/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002669/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Jordan Bardella (PfE)

    In May 2023, the European Union welcomed the award of a grant to the Malagasy NGO ‘Transparency International Initiative Madagascar’ to help it establish a project called MAIKA[1].

    On 29 June 2025, the NGO issued a press release in which it publicly expressed its support for Madagascar’s claim on the Scattered Islands, against the backdrop of meetings between France and Madagascar on the subject. The Scattered Islands archipelago, which has been French since the Third Republic, is of major geostrategic importance given its significant marine resources and its strategic position at the entrance to the Mozambique Channel.

    It should be noted that the Scattered Islands were never part of Madagascar’s territory before independence in 1960. These ongoing claims by such organisations represent a clear interference in the internal affairs of a founding Member State of the European Union, at the same time as undermining stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

    • 1.What criteria were used to justify the award of this grant?
    • 2.In the light of the information published in recent days, does the Commission intend to suspend its grant to Transparency International Initiative Madagascar?

    Submitted: 1.7.2025

    • [1] https://2424.mg/news/lutte-contre-la-corruption-lunion-europeenne-soutient-le-projet-maika/
    Last updated: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Tackling digital threats to youth mental health – E-002673/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002673/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Dan-Ştefan Motreanu (PPE)

    At the EU Health Council on 20 June 2025, ministers called for stronger action to protect the mental health of children and adolescents in the digital era. The conclusions emphasise the need for a safer and more age-appropriate digital environment, particularly given concerns over the impact of social media on young users.

    France has proposed a ban on social networks for minors under 15, citing links to substance abuse and cyberbullying. Germany highlighted the harmful effects of ‘manipulative and addictive design’ in digital platforms, while Spain advocated for youth mental health to be prioritised in the upcoming 2028–2034 multiannual financial framework.

    Despite broad agreement on the seriousness of the issue, there is still no unified EU strategy or regulatory framework to address these risks effectively.

    • 1.Given the urgency, what policy measures does the Commission plan to introduce to curb harmful digital practices, ensure age-appropriate content and support the mental well-being of young users?
    • 2.How will the Commission coordinate with the Member States to implement meaningful protections across the EU and ensure that digital platforms are held accountable for their impact on youth mental health?

    Submitted: 1.7.2025

    Last updated: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Strengthening EU measures against unsafe imports and unfair online competition – E-002672/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002672/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Dan-Ştefan Motreanu (PPE)

    Seven major European industry associations have criticised the Commission’s proposal to introduce a EUR 2 handling fee on parcels arriving from outside the EU. They argue that the measure is largely symbolic and fails to address the core issue: the widespread sale of non-compliant and unsafe goods via online platforms that evade accountability.

    With approximately 12 million parcels entering the EU daily, often without proper safety checks, industry representatives warn that relying on this fee risks delaying more effective reforms. They stress the need to close legal loopholes that allow online marketplaces to act as intermediaries without being held responsible for the products sold. In their view, the current proposal may create a false sense of action being taken while failing to curb the influx of unsafe imports or protect EU businesses from unfair competition.

    Given this situation:

    • 1.What steps does the Commission plan to take to hold online platforms accountable for goods sold within the EU?
    • 2.How will the Commission ensure proper enforcement of product safety rules at scale, beyond this minimal fee, and prevent further delays in implementing necessary legislative reforms?

    Submitted: 1.7.2025

    Last updated: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Implementation and enforcement of the ban on rubber granules on sports fields – E-002644/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002644/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Biljana Borzan (S&D)

    In 2021, the Commission adopted Regulation (EU) 2021/1199, which limits the concentration of eight polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) in granules and mulches used as infill material on artificial turf pitches. Additionally, in 2023, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) supported a proposal for a complete ban on the intentional use of microplastics, including rubber granules, with a transition period lasting until 2031.

    However, there are concerns that these restrictions are poorly enforced in certain Member States, that PAH content in infill materials is not being properly monitored, and that new pitches are still being installed with materials that may pose health risks, particularly for children.

    • 1.How does the Commission monitor the implementation of Regulation (EU) 2021/1199 in Member States, and are there mechanisms in place to ensure compliance with the PAH limits for infill materials used on sports pitches?
    • 2.Does the Commission, in cooperation with the ECHA and the Member States, plan to publish guidance to support a safe transition to microplastic-free sports pitches?
    • 3.Will it support Member States, in particular local and regional authorities, through financial instruments or EU funds to accelerate the replacement of hazardous infill materials with more environmentally friendly alternatives?

    Submitted: 30.6.2025

    Last updated: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Latest news – Meeting of the DCAM Delegation: 8 July 2025 – Delegation for relations with the countries of Central America, including the EU-Central America Association Parliamentary Committee

    Source: European Parliament

    The meeting of the Delegation for relations with the countries of Central America, including the EU-Central America Association Parliamentary Committee (DCAM) took place on:

    Tuesday, 8 July 2025, 11.00-11.30 in Strasbourg

    Room: CHURCHILL 200

    The meeting had as main point the election of the first and second Vice-Chairs of the Delegation

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Hearings – Rise of consumer prices in the single market – 15-07-2025 – Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection

    Source: European Parliament

    Inflation in the EU © Image used under the license from Adobe Stock

    The IMCO Committee will host a public hearing to analyse the persistent rise of consumer prices across the EU internal market and its implications for consumer welfare and the resilience of the Single Market.

    This event will bring together representatives from consumer and business organisations, the European Commission, other institutions and international organisations as well as academic experts in order to explore the impact of rising prices on consumer choice, product availability and price transparency.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Meagre pensions for former temporary employees in the public administration in Sicily – E-002676/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002676/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Giuseppe Antoci (The Left)

    Sicily is faced with a serious social welfare problem concerning temporary and former temporary workers in the island’s public administration.

    As pointed out by the Regional Committee of the National Social Security Institute (INPS), around 9 000 of these workers are destined to receive social welfare payouts that are ‘bordering on the breadline’[1].

    They are said to be receiving pensions that are totally insufficient to meet the demands of everyday living, especially with the rise in the cost of living[2].

    This problem calls for immediate action, since around one thousand of these workers have just retired and are receiving payments of just EUR 600 per month, despite having worked for at least 35 years[3].

    The reason for this unacceptable situation lies in the tendency for public administrations (municipal, provincial and regional councils and publicly-owned companies) to resort to temporary and intermittent, fixed-term and part-time contracts. For the workers involved, these types of contract lead to piecemeal careers, low wages and insufficient contribution payments. As a corollary of this, they then receive equally inappropriate pensions.

    Can the Commission state whether it is aware of this unacceptable social welfare treatment of public servants who have had to work in precarious contractual conditions, how it views this situation and how it might intervene?

    Submitted: 1.7.2025

    • [1] https://tg24.sky.it/economia/2025/06/06/pensioni-precari-pa-sicilia-inps?card=5.
    • [2] https://www.palermotoday.it/cronaca/lavoratori-ex-precari-regione-enti-locali-cisl-fp-sicilia.html.
    • [3] https://palermo.gds.it/articoli/politica/2025/06/04/le-pensioni-povere-degli-ex-precari-il-comitato-inps-sicilia-intervengano-politica-e-sindacati-434bb156-a3cf-407a-a0cb-b3e467ecd0e5/.
    Last updated: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – European cardiovascular health plan – E-002661/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002661/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Grégory Allione (Renew), Valérie Devaux (Renew), Pascal Canfin (Renew)

    Cardiovascular diseases are still the main cause of death in the EU, with almost 1.7 million deaths per year. Structural heart diseases affect more than 14 million people in Europe. Although the latter are easy to treat when detected at an early stage, they are still underdiagnosed and undertreated, leading to avoidable hospitalisations, premature deaths and an increase in health inequalities.

    In December 2024, EU health ministers unanimously adopted a set of conclusions on improving cardiovascular health in the EU, and the Commission promised to bring forward a European cardiovascular health plan.

    • 1.How will the Commission ensure that structural heart diseases are included in the plan, with clear commitments on early detection (including through auscultation), rapid referral pathways and equitable access to treatment?
    • 2.What action does the Commission intend to take to address the persistent gender gaps in research and in the diagnosis and treatment of structural heart diseases, given that women are diagnosed later, are under-represented in clinical trials and undergo fewer routine heart check-ups?
    • 3.How is the Commission planning to ensure that Member States receive sustainable financial support at EU level so that the cardiovascular health plan can be put into practice?

    Submitted: 1.7.2025

    Last updated: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Implementation of the UWWTD and pending analysis of the Extended Producer Responsibility scheme – E-002662/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002662/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Susana Solís Pérez (PPE), Oliver Schenk (PPE), Carmen Crespo Díaz (PPE), Esther Herranz García (PPE), Rosa Estaràs Ferragut (PPE), Dolors Montserrat (PPE), Elena Nevado del Campo (PPE)

    The revised Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive (UWWTD) introduces an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme, which has raised concerns about the proportionality of the cost allocation among sectors. Poland has challenged the directive before the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU), specifically contesting the application of the EPR to the cosmetics and pharmaceutical sectors. Most recently, the European water resilience strategy, published on 3 June 2025, announced an updated analysis of the costs and sectoral impacts of the EPR scheme. Nevertheless, national implementation of the UWWTD is already under way in some Member States, even though this updated analysis has not yet been carried out.

    In this context:

    • 1.When exactly does the Commission plan to carry out the updated cost and impact analysis referred to in the water resilience strategy?
    • 2.What specific aspects will be examined – will the analysis take into account the relative contribution of different sectors to micropollution, the economic impact on SMEs, and the implications for research and innovation?
    • 3.In the light of ongoing national implementation and the legal challenge currently before the CJEU, will the Commission recommend that Member States postpone national implementation of the EPR scheme until the updated analysis is completed and its findings properly considered?

    Submitted: 1.7.2025

    Last updated: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Impact of the EU-Mercosur agreement on the EU wine sector – E-002663/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002663/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Marko Vešligaj (S&D)

    The EU’s wine sector represents a key pillar of agricultural production and the economy, while also holding significant value for European culture and identity. The sector is now facing significant instability and a range of challenges, from oversupply in certain regions to the loss of vineyards in others, in conjunction with major changes in consumer trends. There is also a significant risk posed by the import of wine from non-EU countries and its effect on the European market.

    In anticipation of the official presentation of the EU-Mercosur agreement, the Commission should already be preparing mitigation and protection measures that will address the risks associated with the importing of wine from non-EU countries in relation to the aforementioned trade agreement.

    • 1.Has the Commission conducted an impact assessment of the EU-Mercosur agreement specifically with regard to the wine sector and in relation to the import of wines from the Mercosur regions, and if so, what are the conclusions of this assessment?
    • 2.Has it drawn up a plan to mitigate the risks and dangers for European wine producers with regard to the import of wine which would, potentially, be lower priced and of lower quality?

    Submitted: 1.7.2025

    Last updated: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Assessment under international law of Israel’s and the USA’s attacks on Iran – E-002616/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002616/2025
    to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
    Rule 144
    Fabio De Masi (NI)

    • 1.What view does the Commission take, in respect of international law, of Israel’s attack on Iran given the Washington Post’s[1]revelations that it was not preceded by an imminent threat from nuclear weapons and that other reasons were decisive?
    • 2.Does the Commission share the view of NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, who qualified the US attack on Iran as ‘decisive action’ and ‘truly extraordinary’ in a text message to Donald Trump[2]?

    Submitted: 30.6.2025

    • [1] https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/06/23/netanyahu-iran-attack-nuclear-intelligence/
    • [2] https://www.zdfheute.de/politik/ausland/nato-gipfel-trump-rutte-sms-100.html
    Last updated: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The importance of simplification for SMEs when decarbonising corporate fleets – E-002666/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002666/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Tomas Tobé (PPE), Jörgen Warborn (PPE)

    In its communication entitled ‘A Competitiveness Compass for the EU’[1], the Commission sets a target of reducing the cost of all administrative burdens on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by 35 %. In its communication on decarbonising corporate fleets, reducing the reporting and administrative burden is stated as one of the key aspects in the preparation of the coming legislative proposal[2].

    The measures presented in the communication on decarbonising corporate fleets are intended to boost demand for zero-emission vehicles and support the decarbonisation of the transport sector. However, it is of the utmost importance that the Commission deliver on its promises of simplification, including as part of this initiative.

    • 1.What measures will the Commission take to ensure that its legislative proposal on decarbonising corporate fleets is in line with the priorities of the competitiveness compass regarding simplification and a reduction in the administrative burden on SMEs?
    • 2.What other measures will it take to support SMEs in their transition to a decarbonised corporate fleet?

    Submitted: 1.7.2025

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/10017eb1-4722-4333-add2-e0ed18105a34_en?filename=Communication_1.pdf.
    • [2] https://transport.ec.europa.eu/document/download/1498648c-63fc-4715-975d-ccbc64703da5_en?filename=Communication%20-%20Decarbonising%20corporate%20fleets.pdf.
    Last updated: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Need to update the EU regulatory framework on phytosanitary treatments to include precision technologies such as drone use – E-002667/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002667/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Vicent Marzà Ibáñez (Verts/ALE)

    Directive 2009/128/EC prohibits, with certain exceptions, the aerial spraying of plant protection products. In 2017, the European Commission judged that drone treatments should be considered aerial, and did not make a distinction between them and conventional aerial techniques, despite the fact that drone spraying is often carried out at a lower height than some land-based treatments. This interpretation, based solely on their ability to fly, prevents drones from being used, even when they increase precision, reduce drift and enable a smaller dose to be used, which means they align with the objectives of the European Green Deal, the Farm to Fork Strategy and digital agriculture. Many Member States have expressed interest in reviewing this classification.

    In light of the above:

    • 1.Does the Commission intend to review the interpretation of Article 9 of Directive 2009/128/EC to allow the use of drones when their lower environmental impact is proven?
    • 2.Does it consider it necessary to define a specific category for drones based on technical criteria – such as low height and drift – and not only on their ability to fly?
    • 3.What action does the Commission propose to take to adapt the regulatory framework and avoid the uptake of precision agriculture technologies being held back?

    Submitted: 1.7.2025

    Last updated: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Need to update the EU regulatory framework on phytosanitary treatments to include precision technologies such as drone use – E-002667/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002667/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Vicent Marzà Ibáñez (Verts/ALE)

    Directive 2009/128/EC prohibits, with certain exceptions, the aerial spraying of plant protection products. In 2017, the European Commission judged that drone treatments should be considered aerial, and did not make a distinction between them and conventional aerial techniques, despite the fact that drone spraying is often carried out at a lower height than some land-based treatments. This interpretation, based solely on their ability to fly, prevents drones from being used, even when they increase precision, reduce drift and enable a smaller dose to be used, which means they align with the objectives of the European Green Deal, the Farm to Fork Strategy and digital agriculture. Many Member States have expressed interest in reviewing this classification.

    In light of the above:

    • 1.Does the Commission intend to review the interpretation of Article 9 of Directive 2009/128/EC to allow the use of drones when their lower environmental impact is proven?
    • 2.Does it consider it necessary to define a specific category for drones based on technical criteria – such as low height and drift – and not only on their ability to fly?
    • 3.What action does the Commission propose to take to adapt the regulatory framework and avoid the uptake of precision agriculture technologies being held back?

    Submitted: 1.7.2025

    Last updated: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Meets Egyptian Prime Minister

    Source: Government of Qatar

    Doha, July 08, 2025

    HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani met Tuesday with HE Prime Minister of the sisterly Arab Republic of Egypt Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, currently visiting the country.

    During the meeting, they discussed bilateral cooperation relations and ways to support and enhance them, particularly in the investment and economic fields, and explored promising opportunities to elevate them to broader horizons for the benefit and prosperity of both countries and their brotherly peoples.

    The discussions also covered the latest developments in the region, especially in the Gaza Strip and the occupied Palestinian territories, in addition to a number of issues of common concern.

    Both sides affirmed their keenness to develop bilateral relations in all fields and stressed the continuation of joint mediation efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza, secure the release of prisoners and detainees, and facilitate the entry of aid to address the catastrophic humanitarian situation in the Strip.

    They also expressed their full support for all regional and international efforts aimed at de-escalation and the consolidation of stability and peace in the region.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI: PS Miner announces rapid progress in its AI cloud mining infrastructure after raising $350 million in Series B funding

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    London, UK, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — PS Miner, a UK cloud mining platform headquartered in Southwark, London, was founded in 2019. On July 1, 2025, it announced the successful completion of its Series B financing, receiving $350 million to support the integration of artificial intelligence technology into its cloud mining business. This round of financing was participated by several investment institutions with expertise in blockchain and sustainable technology.
    The company said the newly raised funds will be used to enhance its global network of renewable energy data centers and develop artificial intelligence mining systems designed to improve operational efficiency. These systems are designed to dynamically manage computing resources, predict optimal mining intervals, and reduce overall energy consumption, thereby increasing block verification success rates and operational stability.
    PS Miner currently operates more than 50 data centers in multiple countries. These facilities are powered by renewable energy such as wind and solar energy, in line with the company’s environmentally sustainable mining strategy. The platform serves more than 7 million users in more than 180 countries and regions.
    Cloud Mining Overview
    Cloud mining allows users to access cryptocurrency mining capabilities by renting computing power from a service provider without having to purchase and maintain physical hardware. This model provides an alternative to traditional mining, which usually requires a lot of capital investment and technical expertise.
    Open the website: psminer.com, and you can get a mining experience contract worth $12 after registration.
    PS Miner supports a variety of digital assets, including BTC, ETH, DOGE, USDT, USDC, LTC, XRP, SOL and BCH. The mining business is fully managed by the company, including hardware maintenance and infrastructure operations.
    Integration of AI
    Integrating AI into PS Miner’s cloud mining framework aims to optimize resource allocation and performance in real time. This approach is expected to reduce power consumption in renewable energy centers and improve system responsiveness.
    The company has stated that it plans to expand its green data center layout in Europe, North America and Asia. These centers are expected to use wind and hydroelectric power to provide low-cost and sustainable mining capacity.
    Mining Contract Structure
    PS Miner offers a variety of cloud mining contract options. These contracts vary in terms of duration and computing power allocation. After the contract is activated, mining income is settled on a daily basis, and the contract principal is returned when the contract expires.
    The existing contract levels include terms of 1 to 60 days, and are adjusted accordingly based on the scale of calculations and expected net income. For more details on cloud mining contracts, please visit: https://psminer.com/project
    Here are some of the contract displays:

    For more information, please contact online customer service or send a message to PS Miner’s corporate email: info@psminer.com
    Official website: https://psminer.com/

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: PS Miner announces rapid progress in its AI cloud mining infrastructure after raising $350 million in Series B funding

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    London, UK, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — PS Miner, a UK cloud mining platform headquartered in Southwark, London, was founded in 2019. On July 1, 2025, it announced the successful completion of its Series B financing, receiving $350 million to support the integration of artificial intelligence technology into its cloud mining business. This round of financing was participated by several investment institutions with expertise in blockchain and sustainable technology.
    The company said the newly raised funds will be used to enhance its global network of renewable energy data centers and develop artificial intelligence mining systems designed to improve operational efficiency. These systems are designed to dynamically manage computing resources, predict optimal mining intervals, and reduce overall energy consumption, thereby increasing block verification success rates and operational stability.
    PS Miner currently operates more than 50 data centers in multiple countries. These facilities are powered by renewable energy such as wind and solar energy, in line with the company’s environmentally sustainable mining strategy. The platform serves more than 7 million users in more than 180 countries and regions.
    Cloud Mining Overview
    Cloud mining allows users to access cryptocurrency mining capabilities by renting computing power from a service provider without having to purchase and maintain physical hardware. This model provides an alternative to traditional mining, which usually requires a lot of capital investment and technical expertise.
    Open the website: psminer.com, and you can get a mining experience contract worth $12 after registration.
    PS Miner supports a variety of digital assets, including BTC, ETH, DOGE, USDT, USDC, LTC, XRP, SOL and BCH. The mining business is fully managed by the company, including hardware maintenance and infrastructure operations.
    Integration of AI
    Integrating AI into PS Miner’s cloud mining framework aims to optimize resource allocation and performance in real time. This approach is expected to reduce power consumption in renewable energy centers and improve system responsiveness.
    The company has stated that it plans to expand its green data center layout in Europe, North America and Asia. These centers are expected to use wind and hydroelectric power to provide low-cost and sustainable mining capacity.
    Mining Contract Structure
    PS Miner offers a variety of cloud mining contract options. These contracts vary in terms of duration and computing power allocation. After the contract is activated, mining income is settled on a daily basis, and the contract principal is returned when the contract expires.
    The existing contract levels include terms of 1 to 60 days, and are adjusted accordingly based on the scale of calculations and expected net income. For more details on cloud mining contracts, please visit: https://psminer.com/project
    Here are some of the contract displays:

    For more information, please contact online customer service or send a message to PS Miner’s corporate email: info@psminer.com
    Official website: https://psminer.com/

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –