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  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Outlines Harmful Judiciary Committee Provisions Included In Republicans’ Reconciliation Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    June 27, 2025

    In speech on Senate floor, Durbin also spoke against Senator Cruz’s provision that would leave the U.S. AI industry an unregulated wild west

    WASHINGTON – In a speech on the Senate floor, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, spoke about some of the harmful Judiciary provisions included in Republicans’ so-called One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which aims to slash Medicaid and Medicare coverage for hardworking Americans in order to pay for significant tax breaks forbillionaires. According to the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office, 16 million Americans will lose their health insurance under Republicans’ reconciliation bill.

    Durbin began by highlighting several harmful Judiciary provisions Senate Judiciary Committee Democrats have successfully challenged and removed from the Republicans’ legislation.

    “One example: the Republicans included a provision that would have limited the ability of individuals to challenge the Trump Administration’s executive actions by potentially putting them on the hook for millions of dollars when they try to defend their constitutional rights and go to court. Fortunately, the Senate Parliamentarian stuck this provision,” Durbin said. “Now I’m proud of what we accomplished in eliminating some harmful provisions, but there is a lot of problems with the ‘Big Beautiful Bill.’ The more we learn about this bill, the worse it looks. Perhaps that is why there is a hurry to get this done before the Fourth of July and people can take a close look at the details. And I cannot stand idly by as my Senate Republican colleagues try to steamroll this bill through Congress because the President wants to do something before the Fourth of July.”

    Durbin then outlined Republicans’ wish-list of policy changes included in the reconciliation package to help carry out mass deportations of immigrants who have lived in our country for years and pose no threat to our safety.

    “These policies of mass deportation of immigrants are cruel and mean. And they go beyond any question of public safety. This bill would impose exorbitant fees that would make it impossible forvulnerable immigrants to access humanitarian relief in the United States,” Durbin said. “This includes a $1,000 fee on asylum and a $5,000 bond for parents seeking to be reunited with their child. The fees also place barriers on due process—a $900 dollar fee for an appeal in immigration court. These fees are not just unconscionable—they are unfair.”

    Durbin then discussed how the Republican bill prohibits using grant funds for community violence intervention and prevention programs, which are proven, evidence-informed strategies to reduce violence.

    “We have a gun violence epidemic in America. Currently guns are the number one cause of death for American children and teens. Let me repeat that. In America, guns are the number one cause of death for American children and teens. Not auto accidents, not cancer. Guns. We need to support and strengthen community violence intervention and prevention programs. I’ve seen them. And I’ve seen them work in the City of Chicago and all around my state of Illinois to stop violent incidents before they happen. And we need to connect people with treatment and tools that decrease the risk of future violence,” Durbin said. “Instead of supporting valuable public safety measures, the Republicans’ ‘Big Beautiful Bill’ removes taxes and regulations on certain rifles, shotguns, and gun silencers. This is just what we need in America, isn’t it? Cheaper guns. Combatting this epidemic takes ingenuity and funding—not the reversal of lifesaving gun violence prevention policies. But Republicans’ reckless reconciliation bill will jeopardize the progress that’s been made in our communities.”

    Durbin then spoke against Senator Ted Cruz’s (R-TX) provision that would leave the U.S. artificial intelligence (AI) industry an unregulated wild west. The provision would give states the choice between regulating AI or accepting federal funding under the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program. This means states would have to choose between freezing all regulations on AI for the next decade or giving up specific federal funding. In addition to preventing new state regulations, it would make many of the laws already passed by states unenforceable regarding issues such as political deepfakes, face recognition, and algorithmic discrimination.

    “We are currently living with the results of our failure to regulate Big Tech when it came to social media. Let’s not make the same mistake when it comes to AI,” said Durbin. “This provision by Senator Cruz will allow Big Tech and bad actors to prey on the lack of regulations in the AI space and develop deceptive, biased, and potentially dangerous tools that hurt ordinary Americans and diminish trust in technology… I promise to support any amendment that will remove the AI pause provision from this bill. And I hope my Republican colleagues will do the same.

    Durbin concluded, “So now is the real test for my Senate Republican colleagues. Will they stand with President Trump and provide tax breaks for millionaires and billionaires? Or will they stand with their hardworking constituents and reject this betrayal? What’s more important, a tax break for Elon Musk or the health insurance of 16 million in America? What’s more important, a tax break for the wealthiest people in America or your rural hospital? I think people know that when it comes to the quality of life, the hospital is more important and health insurance is critical. I hope for the sake of our country, four Republican Senators will have the courage to step up and choose their constituents over special interest groups.”

    Video of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.

    Audio of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.

    Footage of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here for TV Stations.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IAEA chief’s push to visit bombed Iranian nuclear sites ‘pointless’: Iranian FM

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    TEHRAN, June 27 (Xinhua) — The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) director general’s insistence on visiting Iran’s bombed nuclear facilities is “meaningless,” Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Friday.

    The head of the Iranian Foreign Ministry made the corresponding statement in his post on the X social network, accusing IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi of facilitating the adoption of an anti-Iranian resolution by the organization’s Board of Governors and the bombing of Iranian nuclear facilities by the United States and Israel.

    “R. Grossi’s insistence on visiting the bombed Iranian nuclear facilities under the pretext of guarantees is senseless and perhaps even malicious. Iran reserves the right to take any steps to protect its interests, its people and sovereignty,” A. Araghchi said.

    The minister recalled a recent plan approved by the Iranian parliament and later endorsed by the Guardian Council of Iran, which called for an end to Iran’s cooperation with the IAEA. “This is a direct result of the unfortunate role of R. Grossi, who obscured the fact that the agency had settled all issues with Iran ten years ago,” Araghchi added.

    The statement, published on the IAEA website, indicates that on Friday R. Grossi stressed the need to continue the agency’s inspections in Iran, “as provided for in the comprehensive safeguards agreement.” -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Meeting of States Parties to United Nations Convention on Law of Sea Held at Headquarters, 23-26 June

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    NEW YORK, 27 June (Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea) — The thirty-fifth Meeting of States Parties to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea was held at Headquarters from 23 to 26 June.  The background press release can be found at:  https://press.un.org/en/2025/sea2232.doc.htm and https://press.un.org/en/2024/sea2195.doc.htm.

    The Meeting elected Nguyen Minh Vu (Viet Nam) as President, by acclamation.  Milan Jaya Nyamrajsingh Meetarbhan (Mauritius), David Antonio Giret Soto (Paraguay), Laura McIlhenny (Australia) and Mykola Prytula (Ukraine) were elected as Vice-Presidents, also by acclamation.

    The Meeting took note of the annual report of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea for 2024, as well as the information reported by the Secretary-General of the International Seabed Authority and the Chairperson of the Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf, on the activities of these bodies since the thirty-fourth Meeting of States Parties held in 2024.

    In his capacity as Co-Coordinator of the Open-Ended Working Group on the Conditions of Service of Members of the Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf, John Pangipita (United Republic of Tanzania) delivered a report on its work since the thirty-fourth Meeting.  Following the resignation of Sidney Kemble (Netherlands), the Meeting decided to defer the consideration of the appointment of a Co-Coordinator of the Open-Ended Working Group from developed States until the thirty-sixth Meeting of States Parties and that the Working Group would continue to function for the time being under the coordination of Mr. Pangipita.

    The Meeting conducted a by-election for vacancies in the Commission allocated to members of the Commission from the Group of Eastern European States and the Group of Western European and Other States, electing Stig-Morten Knutsen (Norway) for a term of office commencing on the date of the election and ending on 15 June 2028.

    In the absence of other nominations, the Meeting decided in respect of the vacant seat allocated to members of the Commission from the Group of Eastern European States, which had remained unfilled since 2015, that the Secretary-General would circulate a call for nominations with a view to conducting elections at the thirty-sixth Meeting of States Parties in 2026, if the President received information about potential candidates no later than 1 March 2026.  If a candidate had not been identified by that date, the Group should transmit, by the same date, a proposal on how to address the ongoing vacancy.

    In its consideration of administrative and budgetary matters of the Tribunal, the Meeting took note of the report on budgetary matters for the financial periods 2023 and 2024 and the report of the external auditor for the financial period 2024.  The Meeting also decided to extend Indonesia and Canada as member and alternate member, respectively, of the staff pension committee of the Tribunal for a three-year term of office starting on 1 January 2026.

    Under article 319 of the Convention, the Meeting considered the reports of the Secretary-General for the information of States Parties on issues of a general nature, relevant to States Parties, which had arisen with respect to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (see A/79/340 and A/80/70).  In their interventions, delegations addressed a wide range of matters of relevance to oceans and the law of the sea.

    A more detailed account of the proceedings of the thirty-fifth Meeting of States Parties will be included in the report of the Meeting, to be issued in due course as document SPLOS/35/11.

    The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, which was adopted on 10 December 1982, entered into force on 16 November 1994.  It sets out the legal framework within which all activities in the oceans and seas must be carried out and is of strategic importance as the basis for national, regional and global action and cooperation in the marine sector.

    For further information on the Meeting, including its documents, please see the website of the Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea, Office of Legal Affairs, https://www.un.org/Depts/los/meeting_states_parties/meeting_states_parties.htm.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to New York Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Hurricane Debby

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    ATLANTA – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP)organizations in New York of the July 28 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by Hurricane Debby occurring Aug. 5-10, 2024.

    The declaration covers the New York counties of Albany, Allegany, Chemung, Dutchess, Fulton, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lewis, Livingston, Montgomery, Ontario, Orange, Oswego, Putnam, Rensselaer, Rockland, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schuyler, Steuben, St. Lawrence, Sullivan, Ulster, Warren, Washington, Yates and Oswego; the New Jersey counties of Passaic and Sussex as well as the Pennsylvania counties of Pike, Potter, and Tioga.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    Submit completed loan applications to SBA no later than July 28, 2025.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to New York Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Hurricane Debby

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    ATLANTA – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP)organizations in New York of the July 28 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by Hurricane Debby occurring Aug. 5-10, 2024.

    The declaration covers the New York counties of Albany, Allegany, Chemung, Dutchess, Fulton, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lewis, Livingston, Montgomery, Ontario, Orange, Oswego, Putnam, Rensselaer, Rockland, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schuyler, Steuben, St. Lawrence, Sullivan, Ulster, Warren, Washington, Yates and Oswego; the New Jersey counties of Passaic and Sussex as well as the Pennsylvania counties of Pike, Potter, and Tioga.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    Submit completed loan applications to SBA no later than July 28, 2025.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Joins Law Enforcement Partners Announcing Results of Operation Targeting Organized Criminal Activity in the Central Valley

    Source: US State of California Department of Justice

    FRESNO – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today announced the results of a collaborative multiagency effort targeting criminal street gangs in the Central Valley. As part of the operation yesterday, federal, state, and local law enforcement served 54 search warrants in locations throughout the Central Valley. As part of the operation, investigators prevented nine violent crimes, made 89 felony arrests, seized firearms, ammunition, and illicit methamphetamine, heroin, and cocaine. 

    “Today, we are sending a strong message that organized criminal enterprises cannot stand up to the power of good law enforcement work,” said Attorney General Rob Bonta. “Together with our federal, state, and local partners, we’ve made our communities safer by taking dangerous drugs and weapons off our streets and holding bad actors accountable. I thank our DOJ agents and our law enforcement partners for their dedication and tireless work to make California safer. Their efforts here not only held accountable members of organized criminal organizations, but also prevented violent crimes from occurring. Central Valley families can live and sleep with greater peace of mind as a result of this operation.”

    “Today’s announcement reflects our Office’s commitment to using every available resource in close coordination with our law enforcement partners to address the root causes of crime and hold gang members and their associates accountable,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith. “Criminal street gangs inflict real harm on our communities by trafficking deadly drugs and firearms that destroy lives and neighborhoods. I commend the outstanding work of our agents and law enforcement partners in disrupting these criminal networks and safeguarding our communities.”

    “The charges reflect the brazen violence and drug trafficking that have threatened the safety and stability of the greater Fresno area, particularly in rural communities like Huron and Coalinga,” said Special Agent in Charge Sid Patel of the FBI Sacramento Field Office. “Yesterday’s operation was the culmination of months of collaborative work to disrupt gang-driven violence and the flow of drugs and firearms into Central Valley neighborhoods. This case highlights the power of strong partnerships at every level of law enforcement, all united in the mission to dismantle violent gangs and protect the communities we serve.”

    “The collective work done by all law enforcement agencies in this operation will undoubtedly improve the safety and overall quality of life for residents in Fresno County, particularly those living in our smaller rural communities,” said Fresno County Sheriff John Zanoni.

    This investigation was a cooperative effort between the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Fresno County Multi-Agency Gang Enforcement Consortium (MAGEC), California Department of Justice (CA DOJ) Special Operations Unit, U.S Attorney’s Office, and the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office.

    In February 2024, law enforcement agencies began an investigation into a criminal street gang operating in Fresno County with a specific focus on the ongoing criminal activities of criminal street gangs in the cities of Huron, Coalinga, and San Joaquin. The investigation found, and the unsealed federal criminal complaint alleges, an extensive criminal conspiracy in which gang members and associates — some of whom were inmates in California prisons and the Fresno County Jail — orchestrated various crimes, including drug and firearms trafficking. On several occasions, members of the drug trafficking conspiracy attempted to smuggle drugs into jails on their persons or through holes they punctured in the walls. Thirty-eight suspects have been charged in a federal criminal complaint on various drug and firearms trafficking charges. 

    Assistance was provided by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Homeland Security Investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Marshals Service, California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, California Highway Patrol, Fresno County Sheriff’s Office, Kings County Sheriff’s Office, Madera County Regional SWAT, and the Fresno, Clovis, Kingsburg, Coalinga, Kerman, Firebaugh, Lemoore, and Parlier police departments.

    CA DOJ’s Special Operations Unit is a collaborative investigative effort between CA DOJ and the California Highway Patrol that provides statewide enforcement for combating violent career criminals, gangs, and organized crime groups. These unique and essential teams use advanced investigative techniques and work alongside local law enforcement to enhance investigations into violent criminals and organized crime throughout the state.

    It is important to note that criminal charges must be proven in a court of law. Every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Issues Consumer Alert on Notario Fraud, Obtaining Immigration Legal Help, Locating Detained People

    Source: US State of California

    If you need help with immigration relief or if your loved one has been detained, be careful who you hire

    OAKLAND — California Attorney General Rob Bonta today issued guidance to help California’s immigrant communities avoid immigration scams by those seeking to take advantage of fear and uncertainty resulting from President Trump’s cruel mass detention and deportation campaign. The alert released today provides tools for people looking to hire free or low-cost legal help and for those looking to locate loved ones who are detained. 

    “Families across the country are experiencing fear and uncertainly as a result of President Trump’s inhumane immigration agenda — and scammers are paying attention. Immigration scams, including notario fraud, prey on the hopes of safety and stability of our immigrant communities,” said Attorney General Bonta. “Before hiring someone claiming to offer help with immigration matters or assistance locating a detained loved one, I urge people to familiarize themselves with existing resources that are often available at little or no cost and learn how to check that the individual is qualified to provide immigration help.”

    What is Notario Fraud?

    Only lawyers, accredited representatives, and recognized organizations can give you legal advice or represent you in immigration court. Immigration consultants – who may call themselves immigration experts, notarios, notaries public, or paralegals – cannot do so. 

    In many Spanish-speaking nations, “notarios” are powerful attorneys with special legal credentials. In the United States, however, notary publics are people authorized by state governments to witness the signing of important documents and are not necessarily authorized to provide legal services. A notario público is not authorized to provide people with any legal services related to immigration.

    How to Locate Detained Loved Ones

    Try to find your loved one’s Alien Registration number (A-Number), which is on their immigration documents. If someone has not previously had contact with immigration authorities or has not applied for an immigration benefit, they will not have an A number but will be assigned one if detained. To find someone in detention, search locator.ice.gov  by their A-Number or by their full name and country of birth. Once you identify the detention center, go to ice.gov/detention-facilities  for location, visiting, and other information. Using the A-Number, you can look up immigration court hearing information at acis.eoir.justice.gov. For more information, please visit nilc.org/resources.

    Protect Yourself from Immigration Scams

    If you need help applying for immigration relief, be careful who you hire. Watch out for immigration scams that can cost you thousands of dollars and/or harm your immigration status. Here are some tips and resources to help:  

    • Confirm that anyone helping you with your case is licensed or accredited. Only lawyers, accredited representatives, and recognized organizations can give you legal advice or represent you in immigration court. Some immigration consultants may fraudulently call themselves immigration lawyers. If someone claims they are licensed in California or another state and can practice immigration law, confirm they are licensed and in good standing in that particular state by visiting americanbar.org/groups/legal_services/flh-home/flh-lawyer-licensing. If someone claims to be an accredited representative or recognized organization, visit justice.gov/eoir/recognition-accreditation-roster-reports to confirm that information.
    • Go to a legitimate legal aid organization for free legal help. Many nonprofit organizations provide free immigration help to low-income individuals, such as those found through the resources below. To find a legal aid organization near you, go to lawhelpca.org. 
    • Keep your original documents in a safe place. Don’t give your original documents to anyone unless you see proof that the government requires the original document. Make sure you have a trusted emergency contact who can access these documents. Keep copies of all immigration-related documents, including copies of documents filed with the government and communications with the government, in a safe place.
    • Do not give money or personal information to anyone who calls, texts, or emails you claiming that there is a problem with your immigration matter. No federal or state agency, including USCIS, will ever ask for your personal information or payment over the phone, by email, or text. Be skeptical of social media or other ads promising new or quick immigration help.

    Access Free and Low-Cost Legal Assistance 

    Visit Law Help CA or Immigration Law Help to find immigration assistance near you.

    Find free immigration help through the U.S. Department of Justice’s list of no cost legal service providers and list of accredited representatives.

    If You are the Victim of an Immigration Scam

    Report it to the California Department of Justice at oag.ca.gov/report. You can also contact your local District Attorney or county department of consumer affairs.

    You can get help from a legitimate legal aid organization at lawhelpca.org.

    For more do’s and don’ts, see the full “Protecting Yourself from Immigration Scams” consumer alert here. The alert is available in Spanish here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Free Ice Cream and More at the Museum’s Annual Social

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Free Ice Cream and More at the Museum’s Annual Social

    Free Ice Cream and More at the Museum’s Annual Social
    jejohnson6

    Free ice cream and watermelon will be happening at the museum’s annual Red, White, and Blue Ice Cream Social. You can enjoy the festivities from 2-4 p.m., on July 4. Due to construction at the museum, the event will take place at the Morgan Cabin, located next to the museum building.

    As our way of saying thank you for your support, the museum staff and the Friends of the Mountain Gateway Museum are excited to offer ice cream with toppings and watermelon for you to enjoy before the annual Old Fort 4th of July Parade.

    For more information about this event, visit the Mountain Gateway Museum’s website at www.mgmnc.org or contact Brittany Joachim at 828-668-9259 or brittany.bennett@dncr.nc.gov.

    The museum is open year-round from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and from 2 to 5 p.m. on Sunday; closed on Monday and state holidays. Admission is free.

    About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
    The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.

    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    Jun 27, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tobacco Farm Life Museum Reopens to the Public

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Tobacco Farm Life Museum Reopens to the Public

    Tobacco Farm Life Museum Reopens to the Public
    jejohnson6

    The North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources is getting ready to open the doors to one of its newest sites — one that already has a long history in the state.

    The Tobacco Farm Life Museum, which grew out of farm tours hosted at the site in the 1980s, preserves and presents the history and heritage of the North Carolina farming community. That mission will continue under the state’s Division of History Museums with additional resources and efforts to improve exhibits and the grounds to tell stories of agricultural heritage. To celebrate the updates to the site, the museum will host a public grand reopening on Saturday, July 5 at 10 a.m. There will be crafts to include coloring a quilt square that will then be used to create a community art piece, interactive activities like a ”hornworm hunt” across the museum and more available until 4 p.m. that day; supported by the Kiwanis Club of Kenly. The public is also invited to explore the exhibit gallery and grounds during a soft opening preview July 1-3 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free.

    “This reopening represents more than the completion of site enhancements,” said North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources Secretary Pamela B. Cashwell. “It’s about reconnecting people with the history, stories and values that built this region.”

    At the heart of the site is a 6,000-square-foot museum that helps preserve and interpret the agricultural heritage of eastern North Carolina, particularly the lives and culture of farm families from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Inside, visitors will find new interpretive panels on some of the displays, as well as a new, temporary exhibit featuring tobacco miniatures. The inches-tall models of tobacco barns, sleds and other related paraphernalia are a small-scale showcase of the tobacco industry that shaped the region.

    The site’s 4.5-acre grounds will also be open for exploring and learning about the seven historic structures on the site. A hard-packed gravel walkway throughout the grounds provides accessibility during the self-guided tours.

    In addition to the reopening of the site, the museum also has a new website — tobaccofarmlifemuseum.nc.gov. Public programs are expected to return later in the year; facility rentals will remain paused for the immediate future.

    Maria Vann, who as director of regional history museums oversees the Tobacco Farm Life Museum, described the museum as a vital resource for insights into life of farming families.

    “We’ve been working to develop new programs and updating our facilities but there will be more ahead!” Vann said. “For now, we are just excited about being able to share the museum again with our community.”

    Tobacco Farm Life Museum is located at 709 N Church St. in Kenly. It will be open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For the latest updates, follow the museum on Facebook and Instagram, @TobaccoFarmLifeMuseum, and after June 21 at tobaccofarmlifemuseum.nc.gov.

    About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
    The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.

    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    Jun 27, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The UK stands ready to support steps towards a durable peace in DRC: UK statement at the UN Security Council

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Speech

    The UK stands ready to support steps towards a durable peace in DRC: UK statement at the UN Security Council

    Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

    President, let me make three points.

    First, the United Kingdom commends efforts by the African Union, United States and Qatar to negotiate the peaceful resolution to the conflict and also commends the continued engagement of DRC and Rwanda.

    DRC and Rwandan Foreign Ministers have been meeting today in Washington to sign a peace agreement. 

    The UK welcomes this significant step forward on the road to a durable peace. 

    Focus will now rightly turn its swift implementation.

    And the UK stands ready to support this process.

    Second, the United Kingdom remains deeply concerned by the M23’s continued obstructions of MONUSCO’s ability to deliver its mandate.  

    We thank SRSG Keita for her continued engagement with the Security Council on this issue. 

    Though the M23 released MONUSCO fuel trucks earlier this month, the United Kingdom emphasises that all restrictions affecting the delivery of MONUSCO’s mandate should be lifted immediately, in line with resolution 2773 which was adopted unanimously by this Council.

    Third, the United Kingdom is concerned by the humanitarian crisis and significant protection challenges in eastern DRC. We remain committed to supporting the most vulnerable. 

    To this end, my Foreign Secretary announced an uplift of over $18 million in UK support to the humanitarian response in eastern DRC during his visit to Kinshasa earlier this year.

    We are also alarmed by the continued reports of summary executions and sexual violence.

    According to UNICEF, a child is reportedly raped every half hour in eastern DRC. 

    We urge all parties to uphold their obligations under international humanitarian law, including the protection of civilians and humanitarian access.

    President, it is time for diplomacy to deliver a long-term solution to conflicts in the Great Lakes region. 

    We now urge Rwanda and the DRC to engage in good faith on the implementation of the peace agreement in order to bring about a more secure and prosperous future. 

    One which the region has long worked towards, with the support of MONUSCO, and one which the people of the DRC greatly deserve.

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Proposed closure of Kinlochewe Primary School

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    On 26 June, The Highland Council took the decision to permanently close Kinlochewe Primary School.

    All school closures in Scotland must be ratified by Scottish Ministers.  The Council has notified Scottish Ministers of its decision. They have an 8-week period from the date of the Council’s decision to decide if they will intervene by issuing a call-in notice. Within the first 3 weeks of that 8-week period, they will take account of any relevant representations made to them by any person on whether the decision should be called in, or not called in, for review by a School Closure Review Panel. 

    Anyone wishing to make a representation to the Scottish Ministers is asked to email schoolclosure@gov.scot or write to the School Infrastructure Unit, Scottish Government, 2-D (S) Victoria Quay, Edinburgh EH6 6QQ, by midnight on Wednesday 16 July 2025 at the latest.

    Full details of the reasons for the recommendation are contained within the Final Report and associated papers, which can be accessed on the Council’s website.

    27 Jun 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Maryland Man Convicted of Two Convenience Store Robberies and Money Laundering

    Source: US FBI

    A man who was previously convicted of robbing the Cedar Rapids Bank and Trust on Council Street in Cedar Rapids on January 3, 2024, pled guilty to additional charges today in federal court in Cedar Rapids.

    Andrew Philip Derr, age 22, from Fredrick, Maryland, was convicted of Two Convenience Store Robberies and Money Laundering.

    In a plea agreement, Derr admitted that after being discharged from the military for misconduct in 2023, he moved to Iowa City and conducted a series of robberies in the Cedar Rapids, Iowa, area.  Derr admitted that on December 27, 2023, he robbed the Casey’s General Store in Robins, Iowa, and obtained over $7,000 in cash. Derr admitted that on January 1, 2024, he robbed the Kum & Go store on Four Oaks Drive in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.  Derr was previously convicted and sentenced for robbing the Cedar Rapids Bank and Trust branch on Council Street in Cedar Rapids on January 3, 2024, in which he obtained over $16,000 in cash.  Derr admitted that after each robbery he laundered the stolen funds by making multiple deposits into his Maryland Bank account to disguise the nature, source of ownership of the funds.  Ultimately on January 3, 2024, Derr flew to Maryland, and subsequently made two deposits of robbery proceeds totaling more than $4,800.  When the United States Marshals Service tried to arrest Derr at his Iowa City, Iowa, apartment, they found a note stating, “Catch me if you can.” On January 12, 2024, Derr turned himself into Orleans Parish, Louisiana, Sheriff’s Office.  

    Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams will be set after a presentence report is prepared.  Derr remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing.  Derr faces a possible maximum sentence of 60 years’ imprisonment, a $1,000,000 fine, and 3 years of supervised release following any imprisonment.  Additionally, Derr must forfeit the stolen funds from the convenience store robberies and the money that he laundered and will be required to pay restitution to the victims of his crimes.

    The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick J. Reinert and was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, the United States Marshals Service’s Northern Iowa Fugitive Task Force, the Cedar Rapids Police Department, Robins Police Department, Linn County Attorney’s Office, the University of Iowa Police Department and the Orleans Parish, Louisiana, Sheriff’s Office.  

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

    The case file number is 24-CR-00105

    Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Update on Developments in Iran (7)

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    Radiation levels in the Gulf region remain normal following the 12-day conflict that severely damaged several nuclear facilities in Iran, Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said today.

    Citing regional data reported regularly to the IAEA through the International Radiation Monitoring System (IRMIS), Director General Grossi noted that this 48-nation network would have detected an important radioactive release from any damaged nuclear power reactor.

    “From a nuclear safety perspective, Iran’s Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant and the Tehran Research Reactor represented our main concern as any strike affecting those facilities – including their off-site power lines – could have caused a radiological accident with potential consequences in Iran as well as beyond its borders in the case of the Bushehr plant. It did not happen, and the worst nuclear safety scenario was thereby avoided,” Director General Grossi said.

    Stressing again that nuclear facilities should never be attacked, he reiterated the IAEA’s current assessment – based on information received from Iran’s Nuclear Regulatory Authority – that this month’s Israeli and U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear sites would have caused localized radioactive releases inside the impacted facilities and localized toxic effects, but there has been no report of increased off-site radiation levels.

    The Director General also emphasised the need for IAEA inspectors to continue their verification activities in Iran, as required under its Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement (CSA) with the Agency.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Smuggling Leader and Top Coordinator Will Spend Remainder of Their Lives in Prison Following Their Sentencing on Third Anniversary of Deadly Tractor-Trailer Smuggling Conspiracy

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    Two convicted human smugglers were sentenced in a federal court in San Antonio today for their prominent roles in the 2022 mass casualty human smuggling conspiracy that resulted in the deaths of 47 adults and six children.

    U.S. District Judge Orlando Garcia for the Western District of Texas sentenced Orduna-Torres to life in prison and a $250,000 fine, and Gonzales-Ortega to 83 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Both defendants were found guilty by a federal jury in March for three counts related to the transportation of aliens within the United States resulting in death, causing serious bodily injury, and placing lives in jeopardy. Following the jury’s verdict at the trial, Judge Garcia set the sentencing date, noting that it would be three years to the day from when the 53 migrants perished as a result of the defendants’ smuggling scheme.

    “These criminals will spend the rest of their lives in prison because of their cruel choice to profit off of human suffering,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Today’s sentences are a powerful message to human smugglers everywhere: we will not rest until you are behind bars.”

    “Three years to the day after these two smugglers and their co-conspirators left dozens of men, women, and children locked in a sweltering tractor-trailer to die in the Texas summer heat, they learned that they will spend the rest of their lives locked away in a federal prison,” said U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas. “We recognize the justice handed down by Judge Garcia and thank our law enforcement partners for their great work that led to today’s outcome. At the same time, we reinforce the message that these criminal organizations will not place the lives of the desperate and vulnerable above their own financial enrichment. My office remains focused on prosecuting smugglers and their networks, and ultimately eradicating transnational criminal organizations.”

    “Today’s sentences are the result of a far-reaching investigation and a tireless commitment by HSI and our law enforcement partners to dismantle the deadliest human smuggling operation in U.S. history,” said Special Agent in Charge Craig Larrabee for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) San Antonio. “This case serves as a stark reminder: human smuggling is not a service — it is a deadly criminal enterprise. HSI will pursue smugglers relentlessly, wherever they operate. No one, who participates in the smuggling of human beings, will escape the reach of justice.”

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Felipe Orduna-Torres, also known as Cholo, Chuequito/Chuekito, and Negro, 30, was a leader and organizer, and Armando Gonzales-Ortega, also known as El Don and Don Gon, 55, was a coordinator in the human smuggling organization (HSO) which illegally brought adults and children from Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico into the United States between December 2021 and June 2022.

    Court documents and evidence presented at the trial revealed that Orduna-Torres and Gonzales-Ortega worked in concert to transport and facilitate the transportation of the migrants, sharing routes, guides, stash houses, trucks, trailers, and transporters in order to consolidate costs, minimize risks, and maximize profit. The HSO maintained a variety of tractors and trailers for their smuggling operations, some of which were stored at a private parking lot in San Antonio.

    In the days leading up to June 27, 2022, Orduna-Torres and others exchanged the names of illegal aliens who would be smuggled in an upcoming tractor-trailer load. Gonzales-Ortega traveled to Laredo to meet the tractor-trailer, where at least 64 undocumented individuals, including eight children and one pregnant woman, were loaded for smuggling.

    Some of the defendants, including Orduna-Torres, were aware that the trailer’s reefer unit was malfunctioning and was not blowing any cool air to the migrants inside. When members of the organization met the tractor-trailer at the end of its approximately three-hour journey to San Antonio, they opened the doors to find 48 of the migrants were either already dead or had died on site, including the pregnant woman. Sixteen of the undocumented individuals were transported to hospitals — five of whom died.

    In addition to their sentences described above, the court also ordered Orduna-Torres to pay a $96,000 money judgment and ordered the forfeiture of the following assets: one 2008 Volvo semi-tractor; one 1995 Phoenix trailer; one 2015 Cadillac Escalade; one 2017 Ford F-350 Super Duty Truck; and $59,445.50.

    Five other defendants in this case have pleaded guilty for their involvement in the smuggling event. Riley Covarrubias-Ponce, also known as Rrili and Rilay, 32, is scheduled to be sentenced Nov. 6; Luis Alberto Rivera-Leal, 39, is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 13; Christian Martinez, 31, is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 20; and Homero Zamorano Jr., 48, is scheduled to be sentenced Dec. 4. Juan Francisco D’Luna Bilbao, 51, is indicted separately and is also scheduled to be sentenced Dec. 4.

    In a related case, Rigoberto Ramon Miranda-Orozco, 48, allegedly worked with the HSO to smuggle aliens into the United States on the same fatal journey orchestrated by Orduna-Torres and his co-conspirators. He made his initial appearance in San Antonio on March 17, seven months after he was arrested in Guatemala, and is currently scheduled for a jury trial Sept. 29.

    HSI investigated the case with the assistance of the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and has received tremendous support from Customs and Border Protection; Border Patrol; ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations; the San Antonio Police Department; the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office; the San Antonio Fire Department; the Marshall Police Department; and the Palestine Police Department.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Eric Fuchs, Sarah Spears and Ray Gattinella for the Western District of Texas are prosecuting the case.

    These convictions are the result of the coordinated efforts of Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA). JTFA, a partnership with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), has been elevated and expanded by the Attorney General with a mandate to target cartels and other transnational criminal organizations to eliminate human smuggling and trafficking networks operating in Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Panama, and Colombia that impact public safety and the security of our borders. JTFA currently comprises detailees from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along the southwest border. Dedicated support is provided by numerous components of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, led by the Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and supported by the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section; Office of Enforcement Operations; and the Office of International Affairs, among others. JTFA also relies on substantial law enforcement investment from DHS, FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and other partners. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 385 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling; more than 345 U.S. convictions; more than 300 significant jail sentences imposed; and forfeitures of substantial assets.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Organizer of Maryland Pawn Shop Burglary that Netted Dozens of Firearms Sentenced to 7 Years in Prison

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

                WASHINGTON – Vincent Lee Alston, 23, of the District of Columbia, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court to 84 months in federal prison for his role in the December 2023 burglary of a Maryland pawn shop that netted dozens of firearms, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.

                Alston, aka “Vedo,” pleaded guilty before U.S. District Court Judge Amy Berman Jackson on March 6 to conspiracy to commit firearms trafficking. In addition to the prison term, Judge Berman Jackson ordered three years of supervised release.

                According to the court documents, on Dec. 13, 2023, Odumn and four co-conspirators drove in two vehicles – one a stolen Hyundai – from the District to the A&D Pawn Shop, a Federal Firearms Licensee, in Glen Burnie, Maryland.

                At the pawn shop, co-defendant Niquan Odumn used a portable saw to cut the locks on a pull-down security gate. Another co-conspirator then used a crowbar-type tool to pry open the main door. Once inside, the quintet grabbed an array of rifles, shotguns, and pistols from the shelves and display racks. They fled with at least 34 firearms.

                About a half hour after the burglary, the red Hyundai crashed on I-295 southbound at Kenilworth Avenue, NE. After the accident, surveillance footage showed Alston and two of his co-defendants abandoning the vehicle. MPD arrived at the scene and recovered eight firearms from the car.

                Investigators also recovered Alston’s damaged iPhone on the Hyundai’s driver’s seat floorboard. On it, an open GPS route displayed on the screen with a visible destination address of Alston’s residence.

                Alston was arrested at his apartment complex on Dec. 15, 2023, and was found with a Smith & Wesson, M&P 9 mm stolen during the pawn shop burglary. To date, law enforcement has recovered close to half of the stolen firearms.

                Alston is the third defendant to be sentenced in the pawn shop job.

                Niquan “Stickz” Odumn, 23, of the District, was sentenced June 23 to 48 months in prison for conspiracy to commit theft from a firearms licensee and to possession of stolen firearms.  Juwon Markel Anderson, 22, of the District, was sentenced June 20 to 84 months in prison for his role in the burglary and for his subsequent attempt to sell several of the stolen guns.

                Co-defendant Tyjuan McNeal, 27, is scheduled to be sentenced July 1 for conspiracy to commit firearms trafficking. Cy’juan Hemsley pleaded guilty on May 7, 2025, to conspiracy to commit theft from a firearms licensee and to possession of stolen firearms. Hemsley’s sentencing is pending.

                This case is being investigated by the ATF Washington Field Division and the Metropolitan Police Department, with assistance from the ATF Baltimore Field Division. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shehzad Akhtar with valuable assistance from former Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Lipes.     

    Alston’s iPhone, recovered by police from a crashed getaway car, included texts planning the pawn shop burglary.

    Image of Alston captured by a surveillance camera inside the pawn shop.

    Firearms recovered from the stolen Hyundai. 

    Additional firearms recovered from the abandoned getaway vehicle.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pipe Bomber Found Guilty of Blowing Up ATM

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    ATLANTA – Abdurrahim Jalal has been convicted of blowing up a bank automated teller machine and possessing illegal explosive devices.

    “Criminals who use dangerous explosives to commit crimes will face federal prosecution to the fullest extent of the law,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “We will not tolerate conduct that puts innocent lives at risk or threatens the safety and stability of our communities.”

    “Jalal put his own greed ahead of the safety of our community. The FBI will use every resource available to find anyone who would go to the extreme use of a bomb to illegally obtain money,” said FBI Atlanta Special Agent in Charge Paul Brown.

    “The use of explosives in criminal activities poses an immense threat to public safety, and we will continue to work diligently to ensure that those who engage in such acts are brought to justice,” said ATF Assistant Special Agent in Charge Beau Kolodka.

    According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges, and other information presented in court: Abdurrahim Jalal was convicted of bank theft, use of an explosive to commit a felony, arson, and two counts of possession of an unregistered destructive device following a bench trial on June 23, 2025. The evidence at trial revealed that on March 29, 2023, Jalal used a pipe bomb to blow up an ATM in Decatur, Georgia. Jalal took approximately $88,000 from the vault of the machine after the explosion. Investigators identified Jalal and obtained a warrant to search his home, during which they recovered additional pipe bombs. 

    Sentencing for Abdurrahim Jalal, 54, of DeKalb County, Georgia, is scheduled for September 22, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. before U.S. District Judge Michael L. Brown.  Jalal faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years and up to 60 years of imprisonment followed by up to three years of supervised release. In determining Jalal’s actual sentence, the court will consider the United States Sentencing Guidelines, which are not binding but provide appropriate sentencing ranges for most offenders.

    This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, DeKalb County Police Department, and DeKalb County Fire Rescue Department.

    Assistant United States Attorney Dash A. Cooper is prosecuting the case.

    For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6185. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Stockton Man Charged with Attempting to Provide Material Support to the Islamic State of Iraq and Al-Sham

    Source: US FBI

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Ammaad Akhtar, 33, of Stockton, was arrested today and charged by complaint with attempting to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.

    According to court documents, since February 2025, Akhtar has been communicating online with a law enforcement-controlled individual, whom Akhtar believed was a member of ISIS. In these conversations, Akhtar voiced his support for ISIS and jihad, expressed a desire to travel overseas to join and fight with ISIS, and stated a desire to send guns and money to ISIS.

    In April 2025, during this investigation, Akhtar demonstrated a desire to provide support of ISIS and did so by providing financial funding on multiple occasions. After a few payments, the law enforcement-controlled individual indicated that ISIS had procured several guns with the money Akhtar had sent. In his response, Akhtar said, “may Allah destroy our enemies” and affirmed that he will send more money that same day.

    Akhtar also talked about planning acts of violence, including conducting an attack against a specific individual and an attack utilizing homemade explosives. He said he “want[s] to die in the cause of Allah fighting the kuffar [infidels]” and asked for instructions on how to make a homemade explosive device in order “to make a boom” at a populated event.

    Then, on June 23, 2025, Akhtar met with an individual he believed was an ISIS associate, but who was actually an undercover employee. Akhtar provided clothing, binoculars, $400 cash, two loaded guns, and six additional magazines. Akhtar then swore bayat (a pledge of loyalty) to ISIS.

    This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Field Offices in New York and Sacramento and the New York City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elliot Wong and Trial Attorney Ryan D. White of the National Security Division are prosecuting the case.

    If convicted, Akhtar faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Airline Employee Sentenced to More Than 12 Years for Attempted Coercion, Enticement of a Minor, and Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material

    Source: US FBI

    Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Mary S. Scriven has sentenced Brian Walker (52, Bradenton) to 12 years and 7 months in federal prison, followed by 20 years of supervised release, for attempted coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity and possession of child sexual abuse material. Walker pled guilty on March 25, 2025.

    According to court documents, Walker contacted a 12-year-old female living in his community over a social media application. The FBI took over the minor’s social media account and engaged in chats with Walker in an undercover capacity. Walker engaged in sexual conversations with the undercover agent, whom he believed to be the 12-year-old female, and attempted to coerce and entice her to engage in sexual activity. Within the conversations, Walker shared his attraction to 12-year-old females and expressed his desire to meet in person.

    On June 24, 2024, Walker travelled to meet the minor in person at the community pool and was arrested at the scene. Law enforcement seized a cell phone from Walker and located hundreds of images and videos of minors, including those under the age of 12 years, engaged in sexually explicit conduct.

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Courtney Derry.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Newcomb Man Charged with Assault for Violent Attack

    Source: US FBI

    ALBUQUERQUE – A Newcomb man is facing federal charges after a violent altercation left a victim with serious injuries.

    According to court documents, on June 14, 2025, Vincent Torrez, 35, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, assaulted John Doe at a residence on the Navajo Nation. During the incident, Torrez entered John Doe’s bedroom, repeatedly struck him, slammed him to the floor, and used a ceramic cup as a weapon to inflict a deep laceration to John Doe’s leg. John Doe sustained multiple injuries, including lacerations to the head and leg, abrasions, and an arterial wound, and was transported to Northern Navajo Medical Center for treatment.

    Torrez is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury and will remain on conditions of release pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted of the current charges, Torrez faces up to 10 years in prison.

    U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Philip Russell, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.

    The Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meg Tomlinson is prosecuting the case.

    A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Terra Amarilla Man Faces Federal Charges for Illegal Firearm Possession

    Source: US FBI

    ALBUQUERQUE – A Terra Amarilla man has been federally charged for unlawful possession of a firearm despite prior felony convictions.

    According to court documents, on May 31, 2025, the Jicarilla Apache Police Department responded to a domestic disturbance involving Ronnie Martinez, 49, at a residence in Dulce, New Mexico. According to the investigation, Martinez became agitated after a dispute with Jane Doe and subsequently sent her threatening messages, including a photograph of a rifle.

    Officers located Martinez at the residence, where he was found carrying multiple knives. During questioning, Martinez admitted to possessing a rifle, which he claimed belonged to his father. Martinez consented to a search, and officers recovered a rifle from the home.

    Court records confirm Martinez has prior felony convictions, including first-degree assault with a deadly weapon and second-degree assault, both punishable by more than one year of imprisonment. As a previously convicted felon, Martinez is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition.

    Martinez will remain on conditions of release pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted of the current charges, Martinez faces up to 15 years in prison.

    U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Philip Russell, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.

    The Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Jicarilla Apache Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Pahl is prosecuting the case.

    A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Jury Convicts Taos Man in 2019 Double Homicide

    Source: US FBI

    ALBUQUERQUE – A federal jury convicted a Taos man of two counts of second-degree murder in connection with the June 2019 killings of two members of the Taos Pueblo. The verdict came after an eight-day trial and approximately six hours of deliberation.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, on June 1, 2019, John Doe 1 and John Doe 2, both enrolled members of the Taos Pueblo, were reported missing after their last known contact on May 30, 2019. Taos Pueblo Department of Public Safety officers responded to John Doe 1’s residence, where they discovered John Doe 2’s pickup truck crashed into trees near the home. Officers entered the residence and found the bodies of both men, stacked and partially concealed under wire fencing. Forensic experts confirmed both victims died from extensive blunt force trauma. Investigators documented evidence from both inside and outside the residence, including large amounts of blood spatter, vehicle tracks, and property damage.

    The investigation tied Joshua Gonzales, 38, a non-Indian, to the murders. After the murders, Gonzales confessed to a witness, providing a detailed account of the killings, including that he used a wooden table leg as the murder weapon and describing the injuries he inflicted, details that matched the forensic findings. The victim’s niece testified that he was the last person seen with John Doe 1 and recounted how he attempted to manufacture a false alibi and threatened her to remain silent. She also testified that Gonzales had a key to the residence, which could only be locked from the outside.

    Additional evidence included bloody footprints at the scene, DNA analysis, surveillance video and cell phone records.  Investigators established a timeline placing Gonzales at the scene and showed that he possessed one of the victim’s cell phones the morning after the murders. Further, Gonzales fled the scene in John Doe 2’s truck, which he crashed while attempting to leave the area.

    Following the verdict, the Court ordered that Gonzales remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled. At sentencing, Gonzales faces up to life in prison.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Philip Russell, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

    The Santa Fe Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Taos Pueblo Department of Public Safety, Bureau of Indian Affairs, New Mexico State Police, Espanola Police Department, Taos Police Department, Taos County Sheriff’s Department, and the Albuquerque Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Mark Probasco and Samuel Hurtado are prosecuting the case.

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Executive Board Completes the Fifth Review Under the Stand-By Arrangement with Armenia

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    June 27, 2025

    • The IMF Executive Board completed the fifth review under the Stand-By Arrangement (SBA) with Armenia, providing the country with access equivalent to SDR 18.4 million (about US$26.1 million). The Armenian authorities continue to treat the arrangement as precautionary.
    • Economic activity remains strong. Real GDP growth is expected to reach 4.5 percent in 2025 as external growth drivers continue to taper off amid higher global uncertainty.
    • The SBA aims to support the government’s policy and reform agenda to preserve economic and financial stability and support strong, inclusive, and sustainable growth.

    Washington, DC: The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) completed the fifth review under the Stand-By Arrangement (SBA) with Armenia. The completion of the review enables access to an amount equivalent to SDR 18.4 million (about US$26.1 million), bringing total access to the equivalent of SDR 110.4 million (about US$156.9 million). The SBA was approved by the IMF Executive Board on December 12, 2022 (see Press Release No. 22/429). The Armenian authorities continue to treat the arrangement as precautionary. The Executive Board’s decision was taken on a lapse-of-time basis.[1]

    Armenia’s economic activity remains strong. Real GDP growth reached 5.9 percent in 2024 and is expected to return to its long-term trend of 4.5 percent in 2025 as trade and services normalize. Inflation is expected to remain around the Central Bank of Armenia’s (CBA) target by end-2025. Risks to this outlook are elevated, stemming from the unprecedented uncertainty related to the ongoing global trade tensions and potential slowdown in the growth of trading partners. Regional geopolitical shifts, which could lead to a reversal of recent capital inflows and foreign exchange (FX) volatility, also weigh on the outlook.

    The slowdown in external demand, lower remittances inflows, and robust domestic demand, are projected to widen the current account deficit to 4.5 percent of GDP in 2025. Nonetheless, external and financial sector buffers remain strong.

    The 2025 budget deficit target of 5.5 percent of GDP is appropriate, accommodating priority spending needs, including on national security, refugee integration, and infrastructure development. The adopted 2026-28 medium-term expenditure framework will reduce the fiscal deficit in 2026 to 4.5 percent, supporting macro-fiscal stability while making room for well-targeted, priority social and development spending.

    The program is broadly on track. All end-December 2024 quantitative performance criteria (QPCs) have been met except for a small breach of the QPC on budget domestic lending. The end-December 2024 inflation was within the inner Monetary Policy Consultation Clause bands. Progress on structural benchmarks continues, although with some delays.

    The ongoing economic uncertainty underscores the need for prudent policies and steadfast implementation of structural reforms:

    • Fiscal policy should continue to balance the need to support national spending priorities while maintaining macro-fiscal stability, with further efforts to mobilize revenue and enhance spending efficiency.
    • The CBA should remain proactive in keeping inflation anchored, with future interest rate decisions guided by developments in inflation and inflation expectations. The flexible exchange rate should continue to serve as a key shock absorber. Foreign exchange interventions should be limited to addressing disorderly market conditions and seeking opportunities to bolster FX reserves through purchases when conditions allow.
    • To sustain long-term growth, structural reforms should continue to advance reforms focused on improving labor market flexibility, diversifying exports, enhancing supervisory frameworks, and strengthening governance.

    Table 1. Armenia: Selected Economic and Financial Indicators, 2022–30

     

     

     

    2022

    2023

    2024

     

    2025

    2026

    2027

    2028

    2029

    2030

     

     

    Act.

     

    Proj.
                           

    National income and prices:

    		                      

    Real GDP (percent change)

    		  

    12.6

    8.3

    5.9

    		  

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    Final consumption expenditure, Contrib. to Growth

    		  

    3.7

    5.3

    3.3

    		  

    3.8

    2.5

    2.9

    2.9

    2.9

    2.9

    Gross fixed capital formation, Contrib. to Growth

    		  

    2.7

    3.1

    2.6

    		  

    2.6

    2.5

    2.1

    2.1

    2.1

    2.1

    Changes in inventories, Contrib. to Growth

    		  

    -0.3

    0.0

    -0.3

    		  

    -1.8

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    Net exports of goods and services, Contrib. to Growth

    		  

    6.2

    -0.1

    0.0

    		  

    0.3

    -0.5

    -0.5

    -0.5

    -0.5

    -0.5

    Gross domestic product (in billions of drams)

    		  

    8,501

    9,493

    10,193

    		  

    10,926

    11,760

    12,658

    13,624

    14,665

    15,784

    Gross domestic product (in millions of U.S. dollars)

    		  

    19,514

    24,186

    25,705

    		  

    26,437

    26,864

    28,084

    29,724

    31,603

    33,547

    Gross domestic product per capita (in U.S. dollars)

    		  

    6,661

    8,159

    8,671

    		  

    8,917

    9,060

    9,471

    10,024

    10,656

    11,311

    CPI (period average; percent change)

    		  

    8.7

    2.0

    0.3

    		  

    3.2

    3.0

    3.0

    3.0

    3.0

    3.0

    CPI (end of period; percent change)

    		  

    8.3

    -0.6

    1.5

    		  

    3.3

    3.0

    3.0

    3.0

    3.0

    3.0

    GDP deflator (percent change)

    		  

    8.0

    3.1

    1.4

    		  

    2.6

    3.0

    3.0

    3.0

    3.0

    3.0

    Unemployment rate (in percent)

    		  

    13.5

    12.4

    13.9

    		  

    13.5

    14.0

    14.0

    14.0

    14.0

    14.0

    Investment and saving (in percent of GDP)

    		                      

    Investment

    		  

    22.4

    22.9

    23.8

    		  

    21.2

    21.2

    21.2

    21.1

    21.1

    21.1

    National savings

    		  

    22.7

    20.6

    20.0

    		  

    16.7

    16.4

    16.5

    16.4

    16.3

    16.3
                           

    Money and credit (end of period)

    		                      

    Reserve money (percent change)

    		  

    5.0

    -4.0

    13.8

    		  

    9.8

    9.8

    9.8

    9.8

    9.8

    9.8

    Broad money (percent change)

    		  

    16.1

    17.4

    13.7

    		  

    12.5

    12.5

    12.5

    12.5

    12.5

    12.5

    Private sector credit growth (percent change)

    		  

    4.5

    18.4

    31.7

    		  

    13.3

    13.3

    13.3

    13.3

    13.3

    13.3

    Central government operations (in percent of GDP)

    		                      

    Revenue and grants

    		  

    24.3

    24.9

    25.3

    		  

    25.1

    25.4

    25.5

    25.5

    25.5

    25.5

    Of which: tax revenue

    		  

    21.9

    22.5

    22.4

    		  

    23.0

    23.3

    23.4

    23.4

    23.4

    23.4

    Expenditure

    		  

    26.4

    26.9

    29.0

    		  

    30.6

    29.9

    29.8

    29.3

    29.0

    28.8

    Overall balance on a cash basis

    		  

    -2.1

    -2.0

    -3.7

    		  

    -5.5

    -4.5

    -4.3

    -3.8

    -3.5

    -3.3

    Public and publicly-guaranteed (PPG) debt (in percent of GDP)

    		  

    49.2

    50.5

    50.0

    		  

    54.2

    55.9

    57.4

    57.6

    57.4

    57.1

    Central Government’s PPG debt (in percent of GDP)

    		  

    46.7

    48.2

    48.0

    		  

    52.4

    54.3

    56.0

    56.4

    56.4

    56.1

    Share of foreign currency Central Government PPG debt (in percent)

    		  

    62.1

    52.7

    48.2

    		  

    47.7

    46.9

    46.3

    46.3

    46.5

    46.9

    External sector

    		                      

    Exports of goods and services (in millions of U.S. dollars)

    		  

    10,118

    14,338

    18,618

    		  

    12,167

    12,292

    12,537

    12,863

    13,228

    13,611

    Exports of goods and services (percent change)

    		  

    100.8

    41.7

    29.8

    		  

    -34.7

    1.0

    2.0

    2.6

    2.8

    2.9

    Imports of goods and services (percent change)

    		  

    66.8

    41.6

    31.3

    		  

    -30.7

    1.2

    2.4

    2.9

    2.9

    3.1

    Current account balance (in percent of GDP)

    		  

    0.3

    -2.3

    -3.9

    		  

    -4.5

    -4.8

    -4.8

    -4.8

    -4.8

    -4.8

    FDI (net, in millions of U.S. dollars)

    		  

    926

    527

    76

    		  

    397

    454

    468

    483

    529

    534

    Gross international reserves (in millions of U.S. dollars)

    		  

    4,112

    3,610

    3,679

    		  

    3,427

    3,561

    3,665

    3,768

    3,869

    3,969

    Import cover 1/

    		  

    3.4

    2.3

    3.3

    		  

    3.1

    3.1

    3.1

    3.1

    3.1

    3.1

    End-of-period exchange rate (dram per U.S. dollar)

    		  

    394

    405

    397

    		  

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Average exchange rate (dram per U.S. dollar)

    		  

    436

    392

    397

    		  

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Sources: Armenian authorities; and Fund staff estimates and projections.

    1/ Gross international reserves in months of next year’s imports of goods and services, including the SDR holdings.
       
                                 

    [1] The Executive Board takes decisions under its lapse-of-time procedure when the Board agrees that a proposal can be considered without convening formal discussions.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Wafa Amr

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

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/06/27/pr-25222-armenia-imf-executive-board-completes-the-fifth-review-under-the-stand-by-arrangement

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Security Council Meets on Situation in Democratic Republic of Congo

    Source: United Nations 4

    Meetings Coverage

    9948th Meeting (PM)

    The Security Council meets this afternoon to discuss the situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.  Expected to brief the Council are Bintou Keita, Special Representative of the Secretary-General in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Head of the UN Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO), and the representative of Sierra Leone as Chair of the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1533 (2004) concerning the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

    Democratic Republic of the Congo

    For information media. Not an official record.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: Welsbach Technology Metals Acquisition Corp. (“WTMA”) Announces Successful Approval for its Business Combination with Evolution Metals LLC (“EM”) from the Extraordinary General Meeting of Stockholders on June 26, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Chicago, IL and St. Louis, MO, June 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Welsbach Technology Metals Acquisition Corp. (OTC: WTMA), a publicly traded special purpose acquisition company, today announced the successful approval from its extraordinary general meeting (“Business Combination EGM”) of stockholders for its Business Combination with Evolution Metals LLC (“EM”), dedicated to bringing to the US capital markets a secure, reliable global supply chain for critical minerals and materials (“CMM”) that is independent of China.

    Through the Business Combination, WTMA and EM expect to acquire, scale and integrate five operating companies: (1) bonded magnet manufacturing; (2) sintered magnet manufacturing; (3) magnet metals and alloy production; (4) Li-ion battery recycling; and (5) smart machine design and automation. Upon closing, the combined company will be renamed Evolution Metals & Technologies Corp. (“EM&T”) and expects to trade on Nasdaq under the symbol EMAT.

    EM&T’s business is to leverage advanced technologies such as robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) to provide integrated midstream and downstream CMM recycling and processing of oxides, metals, magnet alloys, battery materials, and rare earth magnets for key industries including, but not limited to, the automotive, aerospace, defense, healthcare, high tech, consumer electronics and appliances, and renewable energy industries, while driving a sustainable future.

    “Today’s stockholder approval marks a transformative milestone in our journey to identify a vertically integrated and geopolitically independent supply chain for critical minerals and materials.” said Daniel Mamadou, CEO of WTMA. “Our merger with Evolution Metals represents not only a strategic alignment of values and vision, but also a decisive step toward delivering long-term value for our stakeholders. We are proud to join forces with Evolution Metals, who shares our commitment to sustainability, innovation, and industrial resilience in an increasingly complex global environment.”

    David Wilcox, Managing Member of Evolution Metals LLC, added: “This is an exciting moment for Evolution Metals and our partners. Upon the completion of our merger with WTMA, we we intend to accelerate our mission to create a secure, U.S.-centered supply chain for critical materials vital to clean energy, advanced manufacturing, and national defense. By vertically integrating a supply chain of critical materials production, we bring together complementary strengths and operational capabilities that position us to lead in an era where independence and supply chain security are more important than ever. Our plans are to replicate the Korean operations we expect to acquire into Missouri, creating a major industrial campus. We expect to fully process batteries and e-waste into salts, magnets and related materials – a dominant U.S. Champion in the mid-stream.”

    In addition, WTMA today announced that WTMA is extending the deadline for its stockholders to withdraw and reverse any previously delivered demand for redemption made in connection with the Business Combination EGM until WTMA determines not to accept reversals of redemption instructions. If a stockholder has previously submitted a request to redeem its shares in connection with the Business Combination EGM and would like to reverse such request, such stockholder may contact WTMA’s transfer agent, Continental Stock Transfer & Trust Company, at spacredemptions@continentalstock.com.

    You can find further information regarding the Business Combination and related matters in WTMA’s filings with the US Securities Exchange Commission (“SEC”), including the Registration Statement on Form S-4. These filings are available on the SEC website: https://www.sec.gov/edgar/search/#/q=wtma.

    About Welsbach Technology Metals Acquisition Corp.

    Welsbach Technology Metals Acquisition Corp. (OTC: WTMA) is a blank check company focused on identifying high-impact technology metals businesses aligned with global sustainability and security trends.

    About Evolution Metals LLC

    Evolution Metals LLC is committed to establishing a secure, robust and reliable supply chain for critical minerals & materials (CMM) that is 100% independent of China for sourcing or supplying feedstocks. EM’s strategy is to acquire and develop manufacturing, recycling and processing facilities to produce essential products (including magnets, battery feedstocks and related materials) for industrial uses such as, but not limited to, electric vehicles, electronics, environmental technologies and aerospace and defense applications. EM aims to support the creation of jobs, industry and manufacturing to promote a greener future by providing bespoke solutions to support its clients globally.

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward Looking-Statements

    Certain statements made in this press release are “forward looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. When used in this press release, the words “anticipate,” “believe,” “can,” “contemplate,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “intend,” “may,” “might,” “outlook,” “plan,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “seek,” “should,” “strive,” “target,” “will,” “would” and similar expressions may identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. The forward-looking statements are based on the current expectations and beliefs of the management of WTMA and EM, as applicable, and are inherently subject to uncertainties and changes in circumstances and their potential effects and speak only as of the date of such statement. There can be no assurance that future developments will be those that have been anticipated. These forward-looking statements involve a number of risks, uncertainties or other assumptions that may cause actual results or performance to be materially different from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, those discussed and identified in public filings made with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) by WTMA and the following: WTMA’s ability to complete the proposed Business Combination or, if WTMA does not consummate such proposed Business Combination, any other initial business combination; the risk that the consummation of the proposed Business Combination is significantly delayed; the ability to recognize the anticipated benefits of the proposed Business Combination; the risk that the announcement and consummation of the proposed Business Combination disrupts EM’s current plans; following the closing of the proposed Business Combination, WTMA’s (which intends to change its name to Evolution Metals & Technologies Corp. (such post-closing entity is referred to as “New EM”)) ability to successfully integrate the business and operations of the target companies (the “Target Companies”) into its ongoing business operations and realize the intended benefits of New EM’s acquisition of the Target Companies; New EM’s ability to secure sufficient funding to successfully rebuild Critical Mineral Recovery, Inc.’s recycling facility with significant expansion on management’s expected timeline and budget, or at all; unexpected costs related to the proposed Business Combination; expectations regarding New EM’s strategies and future financial performance, including future business plans, expansion and acquisition plans or objectives, prospective performance and opportunities and competitors, revenues, products and services, pricing, operating expenses, product and service acceptance, market trends, liquidity, cash flows and uses of cash, capital expenditures, and New EM’s ability to invest in growth initiatives; satisfaction or waiver (if applicable) of the conditions to the proposed Business Combination, including, among other things: (i) approval of the proposed Business Combination and related agreements and transactions by the WTMA stockholders, the holder of the EM member units and the holders of the equity interests of the other Target Companies, (ii) receipt of approval for listing on Nasdaq Stock Market LLC (“Nasdaq”) the shares of WTMA common stock to be issued in connection with the Business Combination, and (iii) the absence of any injunctions; that the amount of cash available in the trust account and from certain other investments is at least equal to the minimum available cash condition amount, after giving effect to redemptions by WTMA stockholders and certain transaction expenses; the occurrence of any other event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the Merger Agreement; the implementation, market acceptance and success of New EM’s business model and growth strategy; the ability to obtain or maintain the listing of New EM’s common stock on Nasdaq following the proposed Business Combination; limited liquidity and trading of WTMA’s public securities; the amount of any redemptions by existing holders of WTMA common stock being greater than expected; WTMA’s ability to raise financing in the future; WTMA’s success in retaining or recruiting, or changes required in, New EM’s officers, key employees or directors following the completion of the proposed Business Combination; WTMA officers and directors allocating their time to other businesses and potentially having conflicts of interest with WTMA’s business or in approving the proposed Business Combination; the use of proceeds not held in the trust account or available to WTMA from interest income on the trust account balance; the impact of the regulatory environment and complexities with compliance related to such environment, including New EM’s ability to meet, and continue to meet, applicable regulatory requirements; New EM’s ability to execute its business plan, including with respect to its technical development and commercialization of products, and its growth and go-to-market strategies; New EM’s ability to achieve sustained, long-term profitability and commercial success; operational risks, including with respect to New EM’s use of agents or resellers in certain jurisdictions, New EM’s ability to scale up its manufacturing quantities of its products, New EM’s outsourcing of manufacturing and such manufacturers’ ability to satisfy New EM’s manufacturing needs on a timely basis, the availability of components or raw materials used to manufacture New EM’s products and New EM’s ability to process customer order backlog; New EM’s revenue deriving from a limited number of customers; geopolitical risk and changes in applicable laws or regulations, including with respect to New EM’s planned operations outside of the U.S. and Korea; New EM’s ability to attract and retain talented personnel; New EM’s ability to compete with companies that have significantly more resources; New EM’s ability to meet certain certification and compliance standards; New EM’s ability to protect its intellectual property rights and ability to protect itself against potential intellectual property infringement claims; the outcome of any known and unknown litigation and regulatory proceedings, including any proceedings that may be instituted against WTMA or EM following announcement of the proposed Business Combination; the potential characterization of New EM as an investment company subject to the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended; and other factors detailed under the section entitled “Risk Factors” in the Registration Statement. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize or should any of the assumptions made by the management of WTMA, EM and the other Target Companies prove incorrect, actual results may vary in material respects from those projected in these forward-looking statements. Except to the extent required by applicable law or regulation, WTMA, EM and the other Target Companies undertake no obligation to update these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this press release or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

    Investor & Media Contacts

    Judith McGarry
    Evolution Metals LLC
    Tel: +1 (415) 971-2900
    Email: judith.mcgarry@evolution-metals.com

    Daniel Mamadou
    Chief Executive Officer
    Welsbach Technology Metals Acquisition Corp.
    Tel: +1 (251) 280-1980
    Email: daniel@welsbach.sg

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Personal Loan For Bad Credit, Honest Loans Offers $100-$50,000 With Guaranteed Approval, No Credit Check- US

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Houston, TX, June 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — If you’re facing financial difficulties and have bad credit, finding the right lender to secure a loan can seem like an impossible task. Traditional banks and credit institutions often turn away borrowers with poor credit histories, leaving them feeling trapped in their financial situation. 

    Honest Loans offers a solution, providing personal loans for bad credit, with instant approval and no credit check required, allowing you to borrow amounts ranging from $100 to $50,000.

    What Makes Honest Loans Stand Out?

    Honest Loans is a trustworthy lender offering personal loans for bad credit in the United States. Unlike traditional loan companies for bad credit, which may make the borrowing process complicated, Honest Loans makes it simple and fast. 

    Whether you need a small loan to cover unexpected expenses or a larger sum for something more significant, Honest Loans provides you with access to funds without the worry of a credit check.

    This approach makes Honest Loans a go-to option for those looking for personal loans for poor credit. With a simple online application process, guaranteed approval, and fast funding, it’s an ideal choice for anyone who needs quick financial relief.

    How Honest Loans Works?

    At Honest Loans, the application process is straightforward and fast. Here’s how it works:

    1. Easy Application: Apply online by filling out a simple form with basic personal details and information about your income. It only takes a few minutes to complete.
    2. Instant Approval: Unlike traditional lenders, Honest Loans doesn’t require a credit check. Instead, the lender focuses on your ability to repay based on your current income. Most borrowers can get approved within minutes.
    3. Fast Funding: Once your loan is approved, the funds are transferred directly into your bank account, often the same day or within 24 hours, depending on the time of your application.
    4. Flexible Loan Amounts: Whether you need just $100 or up to $50,000, Honest Loans can cater to your needs. Borrowers can choose a loan amount that fits their financial situation and repay it according to a schedule that works for them.

    Benefits of Personal Loans for Bad Credit

    1. Instant Approval with No Credit Check
    For individuals with bad credit, securing a loan from traditional banks can be nearly impossible. Honest Loans stands apart by offering instant approval personal loans for bad credit without the need for a credit check. This makes it accessible to a broader range of borrowers, including those who may have been rejected by other lenders.

    2. Fast Access to Funds
    When an emergency arises, waiting for loan approval can feel like an eternity. With Honest Loans, you don’t have to wait long to access the funds you need. Whether you’re borrowing a small amount to cover a utility bill or need a larger sum for medical expenses or home repairs, you can get access to your loan quickly.

    3. Borrow Up to $50,000
    Honest Loans offers flexibility in loan amounts, allowing you to borrow anywhere from $100 to $50,000. This range ensures that you can find a solution to your financial needs, no matter the size of the loan. Whether you’re looking for a payday loan or a larger personal loan, Honest Loans can help.

    4. Easy Online Application
    Gone are the days of lengthy in-person meetings and complex paperwork. Honest Loans offers a completely online payday loan application process, allowing you to apply for a personal loan for bad credit from the comfort of your own home.

    5. Convenient Repayment Terms
    Repayment schedules with Honest Loans are designed to be flexible. This allows you to make payments according to your pay cycle, so you can avoid unnecessary stress when paying off the loan.

    Why Choose Honest Loans?

    Honest Loans is one of the leading loan companies for bad credit in the U.S., offering payday loans near me that are quick, secure, and tailored to your financial situation. Here are a few reasons why Honest Loans is a top choice for individuals with bad credit:

    • No Hidden Fees: Honest Loans is transparent about the loan terms, including interest rates and fees, so you know exactly what to expect.
    • Safe and Secure: The online application process is protected with the latest encryption technology, ensuring that your personal and financial information remains safe.
    • Customer Support: Honest Loans offers reliable customer support to answer any questions you may have throughout the loan process.

    How to Apply for a Loan with Honest Loans?

    Applying for a personal loan for bad credit from Honest Loans is a quick and straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

    1. Complete the Online Application: Fill out a brief online form with your basic information, including details about your income and employment.
    2. Receive Instant Approval: Once you submit the application, you’ll receive an approval decision almost instantly. There are no credit checks, so even if you have poor credit, you’re likely to be approved.
    3. Get Your Funds: After approval, your loan amount will be deposited directly into your bank account, typically within 24 hours.
    4. Repay on Your Terms: Repay your loan according to the agreed-upon schedule. Honest Loans offers flexibility in repayment, so you can manage your finances more easily.

    Conclusion

    Bad credit doesn’t have to stand in your way when you need cash urgently. Payday loans with guaranteed approval, ranging from $100 to $50,000, offer a fast and easy way to get the money you need, even if you have a poor credit history. 

    Honest Loans make the application process simple and fast, ensuring that you can secure funds quickly. Just be sure to understand the terms of the loan and repay it on time to avoid any long-term financial difficulties.

    Take the time to research and find the right payday loan option for your needs, and remember, these loans are meant to be a short-term solution to unexpected financial issues.

    FAQs

    What’s the easiest loan to get with poor credit?

    The easiest loan to get with poor credit is a payday loan. They don’t require good credit scores and most lenders only do a soft credit check. You just need to be 18 years old, have some income, and have a bank account.

    How much would a $5000 loan cost per month?

    A $5000 loan would cost between $200-$600 per month, depending on the interest rate and loan term. If you get a 2-year loan with 15% interest, you’d pay about $245 per month. Higher interest rates or shorter terms will cost more per month.

    Can I get a personal loan if my credit is 500?

    Yes, you can get a personal loan if your credit is 500. Payday lenders and some online lenders offer personal loan for bad credit options for people with credit scores as low as 500. You’ll pay higher interest rates, but approval is still possible.

    Can I get a $3,000 loan with bad credit?

    Yes, you can get a $3,000 loan with bad credit. Many payday lenders and bad credit loan companies offer loans up to $5,000 or more, even if you have poor credit. The key is finding lenders who specialize in bad credit loans.

    Urgent loans for bad credit guaranteed approval

    Urgent loans for bad credit guaranteed approval are available through payday lenders and online loan companies. These loans can be approved in 1-2 hours and funded the same day. Companies like Honest Loans offer guaranteed approval for people with bad credit who meet basic requirements.

    Tags: personal loan, personal loan for bad credit, payday loans USA, payday loans near me

    Disclaimer

    This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Loan terms, interest rates, and approval requirements may vary by lender and location. Always read and understand the full terms and conditions before applying for any loan. Consider all your options and consult with a financial advisor if needed before making borrowing decisions.

    • Company: Honest Loans
    • Phone: 888-718-9134
    • Email: support@onlineloannetwork.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: CBSA firearms investigation in the Prairie Region leads to five-year jail sentence

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    June 27, 2025                           Winnipeg, Manitoba                               Canada Border Services Agency

    Today, Robert Ripcik, a 57-year-old resident of Beausejour, Manitoba, was sentenced to five years imprisonment for firearms-related offences along with a 10-year firearm prohibition and ordered to provide a DNA sample.  

    Ripcik, who has been in custody since his arrest on March 12, 2024, pleaded guilty in Selkirk Provincial Court to the following charges:

    • False statements, contrary to section 153(a) of the Customs Act
    • Possession of illegally imported goods, contrary to section 155 of the Customs Act
    • Unauthorized possession of firearms, contrary to section 91(1) of the Criminal Code
    • Possession of prohibited devices, contrary to section 91(2) of the Criminal Code
    • Possession of a prohibited firearm with readily accessible ammunition, contrary to section 95(1) of the Criminal Code

    The investigation into Ripcik began in April 2023 after CBSA officers at the Winnipeg Land Commercial office examined a shipment that was found to contain items related to the manufacture of firearms without serial numbers. A firearm with no serial number is also known as a “ghost gun” and is untraceable.

    In March and April 2024, CBSA officers, with the assistance of the RCMP Emergency Response Team, executed search warrants at a rural property near Chatfield, Manitoba. Among the items seized were:

    • Nine long guns with serial numbers (two prohibited firearms, seven non-restricted firearms)
    • Two Polymer 80 pistol receiver blanks for Glock pattern handguns (restricted firearms) and other handgun parts without serial numbers
    • One Ghost Gunner Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine and one 3D printer
    • One lower receiver for an AR pattern rifle without serial number (a prohibited firearm)
    • Fully automatic parts for an AR pattern rifle (prohibited devices) and other AR parts
    • Multiple overcapacity magazines (prohibited devices) and ammunition
    • One fully automatic AR-15 pattern rifle (prohibited firearm)
    • One automatic switch for a Glock handgun (prohibited device)

    The CBSA Integrated Firearm Enforcement Team (IFET), with assistance from the Winnipeg Police Service, the RCMP and Manitoba Conservation, led the complex investigation that resulted in today’s conviction.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Jayapal Statement on Racist Attacks on Zohran Mamdani

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (7th District of Washington)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) is today releasing the following statement regarding a barrage of racist, anti-Muslim, anti-immigrant, and xenophobic attacks against the Democratic Nominee for Mayor of New York City, Zohran Mamdani, including from sitting Members of Congress. 

    “There has been an outpouring of disgraceful, dangerous, racist ideology from sitting Members of Congress and administration officials following Zohran Mamdani’s win in the New York Mayoral primary. 

    “The constant displays of Islamophobia are an affront to the millions of Muslim Americans and Muslims around the world. One of the most jarring called for the denaturalization and deportation of Mr. Mamdani, an American citizen who just won a massive Democratic primary with more votes than that Member, Mr. Ogles, could ever hope to win. This is an insult to voters in New York City who take democracy seriously. 

    “Denaturalization of U.S. citizens is part of the Trump playbook to attack all legal immigration. It is completely outrageous and flies in the face of the laws of this country.

    “The hateful language directed at Mr. Mamdani will get someone killed, and we all should be outraged. It must end. Every person who cares about democracy, freedom of religion, and the right for all Americans to be treated equally should speak out immediately against these insane and dangerous attacks.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Jayapal Demands Answers on Immigrants Transferred from WA to AK

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (7th District of Washington)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Immigration, Integrity, Security, and Enforcement, is demanding answers from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on reports of immigrants being transferred from the Northwest ICE Processing Center (NWIPC) in Tacoma, Washington to the Anchorage Correctional Complex (ACC) in Anchorage, Alaska. 

    “These individuals were moved thousands of miles away from their families, communities, and legal representatives to a prison with a deeply problematic history,” wrote the Members. “ICE confirmed that these individuals do not have final orders of removal and that the individuals will be transferred back to NWIPC for their court hearings. […] We are deeply concerned that ICE is wasting taxpayer dollars, flying dozens of people between detention centers thousands of miles apart, in efforts that do nothing to help protect Americans.”

    ICE confirmed that at least 40 individuals were moved from NWIPC to ACC earlier this month. ACC has a deeply troubling record of inadequate conditions, on occasion having used pepper spray on detained people. ACC also has a history of improperly restricting access to private conversations with attorneys. Just last month, incarcerated Alaskans filed a lawsuit against the Alaska Department of Corrections (DOC), alleging that the care provided by the DOC has resulted in “needless suffering” and even death.

    Before the Trump Administration began its mass deportation agenda, one in 16 detained persons had no criminal record. Following this campaign of mass deportation and detention, kidnapping people off the streets, from their workplaces, and from routine immigration check-ins, one in four detained persons has no criminal record. 

    The letter was signed by Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Janelle Bynum (OR-05), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), Val Hoyle (OR-04), Emily Randall (WA-06), and Adam Smith (WA-09). 

    The full text of the letter can be found HERE. 

    Issues: Immigration

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: What the Supreme Court ruling against ‘universal injunctions’ means for court challenges to presidential actions

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Cassandra Burke Robertson, Professor of Law and Director of the Center for Professional Ethics, Case Western Reserve University

    A journalist runs out of the U.S. Supreme Court building carrying a ruling on the last day of the court’s term on June 27, 2025, in Washington, D.C. Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

    When presidents have tried to make big changes through executive orders, they have often hit a roadblock: A single federal judge, whether located in Seattle or Miami or anywhere in between, could stop these policies across the entire country.

    But on June 27, 2025, the Supreme Court significantly limited this judicial power. In Trump v. CASA Inc., a 6-3 majority ruled that federal courts likely lack the authority to issue “universal injunctions” that block government policies nationwide. The ruling means that going forward federal judges can generally only block policies from being enforced against the specific plaintiffs who filed the lawsuit, not against everyone in the country.

    The ruling emerged from a case challenging President Trump’s executive order attempting to end birthright citizenship. While three federal courts had blocked the policy nationwide, the Supreme Court allowed it to proceed against anyone who isn’t a named plaintiff in the lawsuits. This creates a legal environment where the same government policy can be simultaneously blocked for some people but enforced against others.

    Crucially, the court based its decision on interpreting the Judiciary Act of 1789 – not the Constitution – meaning Congress could restore this judicial power simply by passing new legislation.

    But what exactly are these injunctions, and why do they matter to everyday Americans?

    Immediate, irreparable harm

    When the government creates a policy that might violate the Constitution or federal law, affected people can sue in federal court to stop it. While these lawsuits work their way through the courts – a process that often takes years – judges can issue what are called “preliminary injunctions” to temporarily pause the policy if they determine it might cause immediate, irreparable harm.

    A “nationwide” injunction – sometimes called a “universal” injunction – goes further by stopping the policy for everyone across the country, not just for the people who filed the lawsuit.

    Importantly, these injunctions are designed to be temporary. They merely preserve the status quo until courts can fully examine the case’s merits. But in practice, litigation proceeds so slowly that executive actions blocked by the courts often expire when successor administrations abandon the policies.

    Legislation introduced by GOP Sen. Chuck Grassley would ban judges from issuing most nationwide injunctions.
    Sen. Chuck Grassley office

    More executive orders, more injunctions

    Nationwide injunctions aren’t new, but several things have made them more contentious recently.

    First, since a closely divided and polarized Congress rarely passes major legislation anymore, presidents rely more on executive orders to get substantive things done. This creates more opportunities to challenge presidential actions in court.

    Second, lawyers who want to challenge these orders got better at “judge shopping” – filing cases in districts where they’re likely to get judges who agree with their client’s views.

    Third, with growing political division, both parties used these injunctions more aggressively whenever the other party controls the White House.

    Affecting real people

    These legal fights have tangible consequences for millions of Americans.

    Take DACA, the common name for the program formally called Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, which protects about 500,000 young immigrants from deportation. For more than 10 years, these young immigrants, known as “Dreamers,” have faced constant uncertainty.

    That’s because, when President Barack Obama created DACA in 2012 and sought to expand it via executive order in 2015, a Texas judge blocked the expansion with a nationwide injunction. When Trump tried to end DACA, judges in California, New York and Washington, D.C. blocked that move. The program, and the legal challenges to it, continued under President Joe Biden. Now, the second Trump administration faces continued legal challenges over the constitutionality of the DACA program.

    More recently, judges have used nationwide injunctions to block several Trump policies. Three courts stopped the president’s attempt to deny citizenship to babies born to mothers who lack legal permanent residency in the United States – the cases that led the Supreme Court to limit the reach of injunctions. Judges have also temporarily blocked Trump’s efforts to ban transgender people from serving in the military and to freeze some federal funding for a variety of programs.

    Nationwide injunctions have also blocked congressional legislation.

    The Corporate Transparency Act, passed in 2021 and originally scheduled to go into effect in 2024, combats financial crimes by requiring businesses to disclose their true owners to the government. A Texas judge blocked this law in 2024 after gun stores challenged it.

    In early 2025, the Supreme Court allowed the law to take effect, but the Trump administration announced it simply wouldn’t enforce it – showing how these legal battles can become political power struggles.

    A polarized Congress rarely passes major legislation anymore, so presidents – including Donald Trump – have relied on executive orders to get things done.
    Christopher Furlong/Getty Images

    A ruling that Congress could change

    The Supreme Court’s decision in Trump v. CASA was notably narrow in its legal reasoning. The court explicitly stated that its ruling “rests solely on the statutory authority that federal courts possess under the Judiciary Act of 1789” and that it expressed “no view on the Government’s argument that Article III forecloses universal relief.”

    This distinction matters enormously. Because the court based its decision on interpreting a congressional statute rather than the Constitution itself, Congress has the power to overturn the ruling simply by passing new legislation that authorizes federal judges to issue nationwide injunctions.

    The Supreme Court’s majority opinion, written by Justice Amy Coney Barrett, emphasized that universal injunctions “likely exceed the equitable authority that Congress has granted to federal courts” under the Judiciary Act of 1789. The court found these injunctions lack sufficient historical precedent in traditional equity practice.

    However, the three dissenting justices strongly disagreed. Justice Sonia Sotomayor, joined by Justices Elena Kagan and Ketanji Brown Jackson, focused on the importance of birthright citizenship, explaining that “every court to evaluate the Order has deemed it patently unconstitutional.”

    As a result, the dissent argues, “the Government instead tries its hand at a different game. It asks this Court to hold that, no matter how illegal a law or policy, courts can never simply tell the Executive to stop enforcing it against anyone.”

    Legislative solutions on the table

    Congress was already considering legislation to limit judges’ ability to grant nationwide injunctions.

    Another way to address the concerns about a single judge blocking government action would be to require a three-judge panel to hear cases involving nationwide injunctions, requiring at least two of them to agree. This is similar to how courts handled major civil rights cases in the 1950s and 1960s.

    My research on this topic suggests that three judges working together would be less likely to make partisan decisions, while still being able to protect constitutional rights when necessary. Today’s technology also makes it easier for judges in different locations to work together than it was decades ago.

    What comes next

    With the Supreme Court limiting judges’ ability to issue nationwide injunctions based on an old statute, the ball is now in Congress’ court. Lawmakers could choose to restore this judicial power with new legislation, further restrict it, or leave the current limitations in place.

    Until Congress acts, the legal landscape has fundamentally shifted.

    Future challenges to presidential actions may require either cumbersome class action lawsuits or a patchwork of individual cases – potentially leaving many Americans without immediate protection from policies that courts determine violate the Constitution. But unlike a constitutional ruling, this outcome isn’t permanent: Congress holds the key to change it.

    This is an updated and expanded version of a story originally published on April 3, 2025.

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

    – ref. What the Supreme Court ruling against ‘universal injunctions’ means for court challenges to presidential actions – https://theconversation.com/what-the-supreme-court-ruling-against-universal-injunctions-means-for-court-challenges-to-presidential-actions-260040

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: California invests billions of dollars to fix roads with “gas tax,” expand bus and train service

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Jun 27, 2025

    What you need to know: Continuing Governor Newsom’s build more, faster agenda, the state is awarding nearly $5 billion today to infrastructure projects that improve roads, expand transportation, bus and rail options while improving public health and safety.

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced nearly $5 billion in funding to improve state highways, expand bus, train, and clean transportation services, and increase pedestrian and bicycle travel options. The funds announced today are awarded by the California Transportation Commission (CTC). 

    The investments announced today are a key part of Governor Newsom’s build more, faster agenda delivering infrastructure upgrades and creating thousands of jobs across the state.

    “We’re not just rebuilding transportation – we’re reimagining it. This investment – upwards of $5 billion – is about protecting Californians today and preparing for tomorrow with transit and transportation options that are safer, cleaner, and built to serve the needs of every Californian.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Nearly $2.44 billion of the funding announced today comes from Senate Bill (SB) 1, the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017, which puts drivers’ gas tax dollars to work improving the safety conditions of California’s roadways. $1.45 billion of this funding will go to zero- and low-emission transportation and new infrastructure to strengthen California’s freight network and better connect marine ports with railyards and freight corridors — leading to less traffic and improved road conditions. 

    The Trade Corridor Enhancement Program (TCEP) will provide $810 million to projects designed to improve freight movement and reduce toxic pollution by decreasing the time trucks, cars and trains sit idle and by rerouting tractor-trailers. It will also increase the number of zero-emission truck stations by 25%.

     “Under Governor Gavin Newsom’s leadership, these transformative investments represent a bold step towards a future where our transportation system is safer, more efficient and a driving force for economic prosperity,” said California Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin. “By tackling congestion and enhancing connectivity, we are creating a brighter, more sustainable California for all.”

    “The Commission is pleased to partner with Caltrans to continue investing in California’s world-class transportation system,” said Commission Chair Darnell Grisby. “The investments we are making today will improve safety, ease congestion and reduce out-of-pocket costs for everyone in California.”

    Projects receiving funding announced today include:

    • $483 million to help communities invest in passenger rail extensions, bicycle and pedestrian safety and rapid transit bus expansion
    • $202 million for projects in the Local Partnership Competitive Program to further upgrade rail, transit, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities
    •  $63 million for improvements to the Ramona Expressway in Riverside County, including a new bridge over the San Jacinto River, bike lanes in each direction, and a new wildlife crossing
    • $49 million to build charging hubs in the cities of Fresno, Oakland, Ontario, and San Diego to support clean medium- and heavy-duty truck fleets
    •  $28 million to install ultra-fast vehicle charging stations along Interstate 5 and State Route 99
    •  $18 million for a variety of safety enhancements around five schools most affected by traffic congestion in the city of Los Angeles

    SB 1 has invested approximately $5 billion annually toward transportation projects since its adoption. It provides funding split between the state and local agencies. 

    Press releases, Recent news

    Recent news

    Jun 27, 2025

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom issued the following statement today after the U.S. Supreme Court announced its ruling on Trump v. CASA, Trump v. Washington, and Trump v. New Jersey: In a challenge to the Trump Administration’s blatantly…

    Jun 26, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Kira Younger, of Fair Oaks, has been appointed Chief Financial Officer and Director of the Finance and Accounting Division at the California Department of Social Services. Younger has…

    Jun 26, 2025

    News What you need to know: La Passeggiata on Lindsey Street in Stockton is the latest site to be transformed from excess, underutilized state land into affordable housing under Governor Newsom’s executive order. STOCKTON — Today, state leaders broke ground on a new…

    MIL OSI USA News –