NewzIntel.com

Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Microsoft announces quarterly dividend

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Microsoft announces quarterly dividend

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Microsoft announces quarterly dividend

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Microsoft announces quarterly dividend

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pakistani National Extradited to Face Charges in Connection with Plot to Carry Out ISIS-Inspired Mass Shooting at Jewish Center in New York City

    Source: United States Attorneys General 11

    A Pakistani citizen residing in Canada, Muhammad Shahzeb Khan, 20, also known as Shahzeb Jadoon, was extradited to the United States on June 10, in connection with an indictment filed in the Southern District of New York. Khan was charged with attempting to provide material support and resources to a designated foreign terrorist organization (FTO), the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS) and attempting to commit acts of terrorism transcending national boundaries. Khan is scheduled to make an initial appearance in court on June 11.

    “The foreign terrorist organization ISIS remains a clear and present danger to the American people, and our Jewish citizens are especially targeted by evil groups like these,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “The Department of Justice is proud to help secure this extradition, and we will prosecute this man to the fullest extent of the law.”

    “Khan allegedly tried to enter the United States to commit an attack on the Jewish community in New York City, planning an ISIS-inspired mass shooting around the one-year anniversary of the attack on Gaza by Hamas,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Thankfully, the great work of the FBI and our partners shut that down, and Khan has now been extradited to New York to face American justice. I want to thank our teams and partners for their diligent work in this case and executing the mission.”

    “As alleged, Muhammad Shahzeb Khan attempted to enter the United States to carry out a deadly terrorist attack on a Jewish center in New York City,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton for the Southern District of New York. “He planned to use automatic weapons to kill as many members of our Jewish community as possible, all in support of ISIS. Khan’s deadly, antisemitic plan was thwarted by the diligent work of our law enforcement partners and the career prosecutors in this Office who are committed to rooting out antisemitism and stopping terror. Thanks to their efforts, Khan will now face justice in New York.”

    Khan was provisionally arrested in Canada on Sept. 4, 2024 based on a complaint filed in the Southern District of New York. As alleged in the complaint, Khan, who resided in Canada, attempted to travel from Canada to New York City, where he intended to use automatic and semi-automatic weapons to carry out a mass shooting in support of ISIS at a Jewish center in Brooklyn, New York. Khan began posting on social media and communicating with others on an encrypted messaging application about his support for ISIS in or about November 2023, when, among other things, Khan distributed ISIS propaganda videos and literature. Subsequently, Khan began communicating with two undercover law enforcement officers (collectively, the UCs).

    During those conversations, Khan confirmed that he and a U.S.-based ISIS supporter (Associate-1) had been planning to carry out an attack in a particular U.S. city (City-1). Among other things, Khan said that he had been actively attempting to create “a real offline cell” of ISIS supporters to carry out a “coordinated assault” in City-1 using AR-style rifles to “target[] Israeli Jewish chabads . . . scattered all around [City-1].” During subsequent conversations, Khan repeatedly instructed the UCs to obtain AR-style assault rifles, ammunition, and other materials to carry out the attacks, and identified the specific locations in City-1 where the attacks would take place. Khan also provided details about how he would cross the border from Canada into the United States to conduct the attacks. During these conversations with the UCs, Khan emphasized that “Oct 7th and oct 11th are the best days for targeting the jews” because “oct 7 they will surely have some protests and oct 11 is yom.kippur.”

    On or about Aug. 20, Khan changed his target location from City-1 to New York City. After initially suggesting certain neighborhoods in New York City to the UCs, Khan decided to target Location-1, a Jewish center located in Brooklyn, New York. Khan told the UCs that he planned to carry out this attack on or around Oct. 7, 2024 — which Khan recognized as the one-year anniversary of the brutal terrorist attacks in Israel by Hamas, a designated FTO, which, on Oct. 7, 2023, launched a wave of violent, large-scale terrorist attacks in Israel. In support of his choice of New York City as his target location, Khan boasted that “New york is perfect to target jews” because it has the “largest Jewish population In america” and therefore, “even if we dont attack a[n] Event[,] we could rack up easily a lot of jews.” Khan proclaimed that “we are going to nyc to slaughter them,” and sent a photograph of the specific area inside of Location-1 where he planned to carry out the attack.

    Thereafter, Khan continued to urge the UCs to acquire AR-style rifles, ammunition, and other equipment for his attack, including “some good hunting [knives] so we can slit their throats.” Khan repeatedly reiterated his desire to carry out the attack in support of ISIS, and discussed planning for the attack, including by identifying rental properties close to Location-1 and paying for a human smuggler to help him reach and cross the border from Canada into the United States. During one communication, Khan noted that “if we succeed with our plan this would be the largest Attack on US soil since 9/11.”

    On or about Sept. 4, as Khan said he planned to do in connection with his attack, Khan attempted to reach the U.S-Canada border. To do so, Khan used three separate cars to travel across Canada towards the United States, before he was stopped by Canadian authorities in or around Ormstown, Canada, approximately 12 miles from the U.S.-Canada border.

    Khan is charged with one count of attempting to provide material support and resources to a designated foreign terrorist organization and one count of attempting to commit acts of terrorism transcending national boundaries. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The FBI’s New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles Field Offices are investigating the case. The Justice Department is grateful to Canadian law enforcement for their actions in this matter. The Office of International Affairs of the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division accomplished the extradition of Khan from Canada.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kaylan E. Lasky and David J. Robles for the Southern District of New York and Trial Attorney Kevin C. Nunnally of the Justice Department’s National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case.

    A complaint or an indictment merely contain allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Patrushev: The harvesting campaign has started in Russia – the grain harvest will amount to at least 135 million tons

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    “Almost 20 million hectares of winter crops were sown for the current year’s harvest, 93% of which remained in normal condition. This figure is higher than last year. Russian farmers began spring field work in 2025 a week earlier than the average long-term dates. By now, spring sowing has already been carried out on an area of more than 52 million hectares. In accordance with the approved forecast structure, the area under grain, oilseeds, and sugar beet should be increased this year. I would like to emphasize separately that the area under vegetables and potatoes will increase, which should have a positive impact on providing the domestic market with these products,” said Dmitry Patrushev.

    The Deputy Prime Minister noted that the systemic measures taken by the Government have created a basis for high-quality preparation for seasonal field work. Thanks to this, they are completed without interruptions.

    “The necessary measures to support farmers are maintained. A significant amount of federal funds are allocated for this. Including subsidies for the purchase of seeds, fertilizers and fuel. A set of tools is provided for the development of domestic selection and stimulation of the use of Russian seeds in production. Thanks to this, we have already made significant progress in terms of self-sufficiency in this category,” added Dmitry Patrushev.

    Preferential lending remains available. The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that the dynamics of short-term loan issuance is ahead of last year. In addition, the Government has additionally allocated more than 4 billion rubles to Rosagroleasing this year, which will allow increasing the supply of equipment to farmers. Non-financial support measures aimed at ensuring the availability of fertilizers and fuels and lubricants are also maintained.

    “The harvesting campaign is beginning in the Russian Federation. Farmers in the Republic of Crimea are gradually starting to harvest grain. I ask the regional leadership to make sure that people on the ground are provided with everything necessary for the regular harvesting. Based on the current situation, we can count on decent harvests of the main crops. According to available estimates, the grain harvest will be at least 135 million tons. This is more than a year earlier,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

    If the weather is favorable, work will soon begin in other regions of the Southern and North Caucasian Federal Districts. First of all, this is the Republic of Dagestan, Krasnodar and Stavropol Territories. In addition, the Astrakhan Region, the Kabardino-Balkarian Republic and Krasnodar Territory are starting to harvest potatoes and vegetables. The passage of this period is directly related to ensuring food security of the country.

    Following the meeting, the Ministry of Agriculture was instructed to continue the practice of holding headquarters meetings and off-site meetings, as well as to monitor the dynamics of the delivery of state support funds to farmers.

    Dmitry Patrushev emphasized the importance of observing fire safety measures and monitoring the phytosanitary condition of crops.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko: About 11 thousand new rooms in modular hotels will appear in 55 regions of the country

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The moderators of the plenary session were Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko and Minister of Economic Development Maxim Reshetnikov. The main topic was the changes that tourism brings to regions and cities, and economic sectors.

    The Deputy Prime Minister read out a greeting from Russian President Vladimir Putin, in which the head of state, in particular, noted: “In recent years, tourism in our country has been developing dynamically, its infrastructure has been improving, new routes and popular, creative tourism products aimed at people of different ages have been developed. And of course, the tourism industry serves as an important factor in strengthening the socio-economic potential of cities and entire regions, opens up opportunities for creating modern jobs, increasing entrepreneurial activity in related areas – trade and construction, public catering and folk crafts. It contributes to the preservation and revival of historical, architectural and cultural monuments.”

    A video greeting from Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin was also shown at the event.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko noted that for the first time at one site, at VDNKh, the tourism potential of the entire country is presented to citizens and foreign guests of Russia: “89 entities, 140 exhibition objects, more than 400 organizations and 4 thousand participants from 30 countries of the world, who from June 10 to 15 will be immersed in the world of tourism and Russian hospitality. An extensive business program is planned within the framework of the forum, more than 50 sessions, where the most important issues of the industry development will be discussed with the participation of 350 speakers.”

    He emphasized that the Government is carrying out extensive and systematic work to develop domestic tourism.

    “Without investments in the industry, there would not be such rapid growth of the industry. It is important to maintain a positive trend and the desire of businesses to invest in domestic tourism. One of the most effective mechanisms of the national project is the preferential lending program. 367 hotels with a total of 78 thousand rooms are being created under this program. The cost of the projects is almost 2 trillion rubles,” said Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    In 2024, Moscow was visited by 26 million people, which is 2 times more than the official population of the capital. The city provides 14% of the tourist flow from the all-Russian one, and in terms of foreign trips, the figure is approaching 50%.

    Another popular measure of the national project is the creation of modular accommodation facilities. Under this program, 13 thousand rooms have already been introduced. Taking into account the demand for the program, the Government decided to extend its validity, and a selection of projects was conducted for the next three years. And just now the Ministry of Economic Development summed up the results of the next selection of projects, within the framework of which it is planned to create about 11 thousand rooms in modular hotels in 55 regions of the country.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko added that the Government has launched programs to support the development of large ski resorts. Currently, the creation of 17 new resorts from the Leningrad Region to Sakhalin is supported with a total investment of 76 billion rubles.

    Also, as part of the national project, a separate federal project “Industrial Support for Tourism” is being implemented to support domestic manufacturers. Demand for equipment has been formed: cable cars, snow cannons, snow groomers, buses, and attractions.

    The government has supported the development of Suzdal in preparation for the millennium since its foundation. This includes the construction of a road from Vladimir, and the modernization of utilities and the urban environment. Suzdal is an example of private capital participating in the formation of a unique environment for tourists and local residents.

    “Our joint goal is to make travel around Russia not just an opportunity, but a natural part of the life of every citizen,” the Deputy Prime Minister concluded.

    Maxim Reshetnikov also focused on measures to support the tourism business. He emphasized the role of a single subsidy for regions, which allows for the creation of in-demand tourism products locally.

    “We provide a significant part of the national project resources to the regions in the form of a single subsidy, giving a fairly large degree of freedom in how to use it. For three years, this is 27 billion rubles, a considerable amount. It can be used to develop the city center, create a new tourist route, navigation or tourist information center. In general, to make travel more comfortable and interesting. The growth potential of the domestic tourism market is large, there will be enough tourists for everyone. But the ability to competently and unconventionally present your local features, flavor, “tricks” comes to the fore in the competition,” noted Maxim Reshetnikov.

    Representatives of small tourism businesses from the regions shared their success stories. Among them are the founder of the Leto-Leto complex from Tyumen, which is implementing the concept of an urban resort, Vladimir Shevchik, the founder of the camping and glamping for active recreation Vetreno from the Yaroslavl region Ksenia Radchenko, the creator of the Russian gastronomic guide GreatList Alexander Sysoev, the director of the Ural design bureau Ratrak-Ural, which is engaged in the production of equipment for ski resorts, Alexander Pashnin, the general director of the ceramics factory from Suzdal Dymov Keramika Vadim Dymov, the general director of the company for the development of high-speed shipping Vodolet from Nizhny Novgorod Nikita Italyantsev.

    The Governor of Krasnodar Krai, Veniamin Kondratyev, spoke about how tourism is developing in one of the most popular holiday destinations.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko and Maxim Reshetnikov presented the Ministry of Economic Development’s badges “For Contribution to Tourism Development” for the first time.

    The Deputy Prime Minister and the guests of the forum also assessed the exhibition area of the updated route “Golden Ring of Russia”. This route received national status on the opening day of the forum. The new status cemented its role as one of the key elements of the country’s cultural and historical heritage, and also opened up new opportunities for the development of tourism infrastructure. The exhibition area of the route unites exhibits from Moscow, Vladimir, Ivanovo, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Moscow regions. The stands present the new brand of the Golden Ring.

    The Deputy Prime Minister also inspected the exposition of the national tourist route “Silver Necklace” and the stands of the Altai Republic, Crimea, Zaporozhye Region, and Krasnodar Region.

    Among the foreign expositions, the tour program included stands of Cuba and Venezuela, where guests were greeted with Latin American songs and dances. At the stand presented by the ANO “National Priorities”, patriotic routes were discussed with the participation of the Deputy Prime Minister, and at the exposition of the state corporation “Tourism.RF” – promising investment projects for the creation of new Russian resorts and tourist clusters.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko and his delegation assessed the exposition of Russian manufacturers. They participate in the program of import substitution of equipment and machinery for the tourism industry. This is one of the areas of the national project “Tourism and Hospitality”.

    The organizer of the International Tourism Forum “Travel!” is the Roscongress Foundation together with the Ministry of Economic Development with the support of the Government of Russia and the Moscow City Tourism Committee.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: The limit of payment under the European protocol for accidents with disagreements is doubled

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Central Bank of Russia –

    The maximum amount of compensation under OSAGO when drawing up documents about an accident without calling the police (Europrotocol) in case of disagreement between the participants of the accident increases from 100 thousand to 200 thousand rubles. You can count on compensation within this limit if there is photographic evidence of damage. This rule is provided by law, which was adopted by the State Duma.

    In the absence of disagreements, the terms of payment under the European protocol remain the same. The victim receives compensation of up to 400 thousand rubles with photo recording and up to 100 thousand rubles if there is no photo recording.

    The innovation will allow accident victims to receive a larger amount of insurance compensation under the Europrotocol in case of disagreement. This will contribute to the growth of accident registration without the involvement of the State Traffic Safety Inspectorate. According to the Bank of Russia, in 2024, more than 40% of all accidents reported in the OSAGO system were registered under the Europrotocol. The amount of insurance compensation in more than 80% of such cases was less than 100 thousand rubles.

    The rule on increasing the limit will come into effect 10 days after the official publication of the law.

    For more information on the procedure for registering an accident using the Europrotocol, see the section “Questions and Answers”.

    Preview photo: Slexp880 / Shutterstock / Fotodom

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    HTTPS: //VVV.KBR.ru/Press/Event/? ID = 24694

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese Foreign Minister Meets with Foreign Ministers of Several African Countries

    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

    CHANGSHA, June 10 (Xinhua) — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Tuesday held separate meetings with a number of African counterparts who arrived in China to attend the ministerial meeting of the coordinators of the implementation of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FCAC) to be held in Changsha, capital of central China’s Hunan Province.

    The African foreign ministers Wang Yi met with included Kenya’s Musalia Mudavadi, Senegal’s Yassine Fall, Tanzania’s Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, Namibia’s Selma Ashipala-Musawya, Botswana’s Penyo Butale and Angola’s Tete Antonio.

    At the meeting with Mudavadi, Wang Yi, also a member of the Politburo of the CPC Central Committee, said that China is willing to work with Kenya to implement the consensus reached by the heads of state of the two countries, firmly support each other, strengthen mutual trust, consolidate the political foundation of China-Kenya relations, and continuously inject strong impetus into bilateral cooperation.

    Noting that the ministerial meeting is a gathering of Chinese and African countries, the Chinese Foreign Minister expressed confidence that it will certainly strengthen the unity of the countries of the Global South.

    He added that China attaches great importance to Kenya’s role and influence and is willing to strengthen strategic communication and coordination to jointly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries and the fundamental norms of international relations.

    M. Mudavadi, for his part, assured that strict adherence to the one-China principle is the cornerstone of Kenya’s foreign policy, and the Kenyan side will continue to firmly stand by China. The diplomat added that Kenya expects to further deepen Kenyan-Chinese cooperation for mutual benefit and common gain.

    During the meeting with Yi Fal, Wang Yi said that China is willing to continue to share new development opportunities with African countries, including Senegal, and promote the modernization of African countries.

    Wang Yi added that China is willing to work with Senegal to uphold the concept of multilateralism and the fundamental norms of international relations, as well as the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries, international fairness and justice.

    For her part, Ya. Fall assured that Senegal firmly adheres to the one-China principle and will defend the strong friendship between the two countries, as well as between Africa and China.

    Senegal hopes to strengthen high-level exchanges with China and promote quality improvement and renewal of bilateral cooperation, the diplomat said, adding that her country welcomes increased investment from China.

    At the meeting with M. T. Kombo, the Chinese diplomat noted that Tanzania has become one of the countries where the results of the Beijing FCAS summit are being implemented most effectively, and the Chinese side appreciates Tanzania’s understanding and support for China’s legitimate position on issues affecting its core interests.

    China hopes to work with Tanzania and Zambia to revitalize the Tanzania-Zambia railway and set a model for mutually beneficial cooperation between China and Africa, Wang said.

    M. T. Kombo, for his part, thanked China for its assistance in Tanzania’s national construction and development and for providing it with a zero customs duty regime, saying that China has become one of Tanzania’s most important trade and economic partners.

    The diplomat assured that Tanzania firmly adheres to the one-China principle and is firmly committed to friendship between the two countries.

    During the meeting with S. Ashipala-Musavi, Wang Yi expressed China’s willingness to work with Namibia to continue the fine traditions of mutual trust, mutual support and sincere attitude towards each other, and help China-Namibia friendship to radiate new vitality in the new era.

    The Chinese Foreign Minister also pointed out that the two sides need to strengthen the alignment of their development strategies, promote the improvement of quality and renew mutually beneficial cooperation so that Namibia can accelerate the industrialization process and bring more benefits to its people.

    S. Ashipala-Musavi, for her part, stated that Namibia looks forward to strengthening its engagement with China and expressed firm confidence that the current ministerial meeting of coordinators will yield significant results.

    At the meeting with P. Butale, Wang Yi recalled that this year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Botswana, pointing out that China supports Botswana in seeking an independent and self-sufficient development path.

    Noting that China is willing to work with Botswana to achieve more significant results in mutually beneficial cooperation, Wang Yi noted that China intends to further open its market to Botswana and explore opportunities to expand cooperation in areas such as trade and economy, energy, manufacturing and health care.

    P. Butale, for his part, assured that Botswana firmly adheres to the one-China principle and strives to deepen cooperation within the framework of the Belt and Road.

    At the meeting with T. Antonio, Wang Yi said that China adheres to a consistent and stable policy towards Angola, providing assistance without any political conditions.

    Wang Yi said China supports Angola’s efforts to promote national development, encourages and supports Chinese enterprises to increase investment in Angola, and hopes that Angola will protect the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises and employees in Angola.

    T. Antonio, for his part, expressed gratitude to hundreds of Chinese companies for their contribution to the development of Angola and the construction of infrastructure, adding that his country is ready to strengthen multilateral cooperation with China and properly carry out its duties as the Chairman of the African Union. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin: The number of documents for the implementation of an investment and construction project has been reduced to 582

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The growth in construction volumes is inextricably linked to a comprehensive approach to reducing the procedures of the investment and construction cycle. The number of administrative procedures in the industry has been reduced from 96 to 32, the number of necessary documents has been reduced by almost half, and the duration of the investment and construction cycle has been reduced by more than 900 days. This was reported by Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin.

    “The government continues to work actively to reduce the investment and construction cycle. This will help speed up the commissioning of socially significant facilities without reducing the requirements for safety and quality of work. Thus, citizens will be able to get new schools, kindergartens, hospitals and much more faster. We strive to ensure that the entire cycle from the idea to the commissioning of the facility takes no more than 1,000 days. This duration is based on international construction experience, takes into account the current economic situation and creates new opportunities for developers in terms of accelerated construction of facilities that people in Russia need. In this work, increasing labor productivity, digitalization and automation of construction processes, starting with the design stages and passing the examination of construction documentation, are of great importance. This work is carried out within the framework of the federal project “New Rhythm of Construction”, which is part of the new national project “Infrastructure for Life”. Thus, today, thanks to the optimization of procedures, the number of required documents has been reduced to 582,” said Marat Khusnullin.

    The stages and activities required to implement a construction project are specified in the Urban Development Code, the list is the same for each category of objects, regardless of their type and characteristics. This was facilitated by the digital registers of documents and requirements launched on September 1, 2024, allowing for the prompt updating of documents, requirements, materials, information, and approvals required to implement a construction project.

    The Ministry of Construction carries out quarterly work to measure the duration of the investment and construction cycle in the regions, based on the results of which a rating of the subjects of the Russian Federation is compiled.

    Thus, according to the results of the first quarter of 2025, the regions with the shortest project implementation time include 55 entities that received 22 to 32 points in the rating. In first place with 32 points is Moscow, followed by Novgorod, Sakhalin and Oryol regions. In the second category, there are 25 entities that received 16 to 21 points, including Kemerovo Region – Kuzbass, Vologda, Penza Regions and others.

    The monitoring measures: the timing of the project for the construction of capital construction projects, the digital maturity of the constituent entities of the Russian Federation, and the compliance of regional requirements with federal legislation. Data on the average duration of administrative procedures, as well as statistics obtained from the unified information system for housing construction, are analyzed. Indicators are assessed according to 64 criteria, including information on the timing of the provision of an urban development plan for a land plot, obtaining construction permits and commissioning of a facility.

    “The monitoring conducted showed a significant reduction in the time required to implement housing projects. According to the results of the first quarter of 2025, the average duration of the investment and construction cycle in the construction of apartment buildings was 1,211 days, which is 48 days less than the same indicator last year. This includes both administrative procedures, which take about 212 days, and the construction process itself,” said Minister of Construction and Housing and Public Utilities Irek Faizullin.

    In addition, the duration of construction is assessed in practice every six months. The regions send the Ministry of Construction a list of capital construction projects put into operation in various categories. From this list, 12 projects are randomly selected in each group, for which the implementation dates for all procedures are requested.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin held a meeting with participants of the federal program “Time of Heroes”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin visited the Senezh Management Workshop, where he held a meeting with participants in the federal program Time of Heroes. The participants discussed issues of spatial development, results and plans for the restoration of the reunited regions.

    “The “Time of Heroes” program, which was launched on the initiative of the President of Russia, effectively helps those who have proven their loyalty to the country and demonstrated professionalism in the conditions of a special military operation to reveal their potential in the state and municipal service. There are many tasks in civilian work that require strong, unconventional people who are well-versed in difficult situations. As a mentor of this program, I see a great desire in the participants to continue serving the Motherland. I am sure that their participation in important projects will be of great benefit,” said Marat Khusnullin.

    During the meeting, they discussed, among other things, the Strategy for Spatial Development of the Country until 2030 with a forecast until 2036. One of the elements of the strategy is the creation of a single list of support settlements, which includes 2,160 cities, towns and villages. 70% of the country’s population lives in these settlements. Improving the quality of life in them will largely help solve current development problems in other territories.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Primary Sector-Government partnership to boost rural health and resilience

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government is stepping up support for rural New Zealand with a $4 million Rural Wellbeing Fund to expand investment in community-based initiatives, Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay announced today at Fieldays.
    “The establishment of this fund is a result of advocacy by Federated Farmers Chair, Wayne Langford, who has been a long-time champion of rural wellbeing and mental health,” Mr McClay says. 
    The contestable fund to drive rural health and community resilience will prioritise initiatives that have strong local backing and secure co-funding from industry or regional partners. It will support new and existing initiatives like Surfing for Farmers, Farmstrong, NZ Young Farmers, FirstMate and many more.
    A five-member panel with representation from the primary sector will be established to assess project applications. Projects must demonstrate strong local delivery, provide clear benefits to rural people, and ability to attract co-investment from industry and sector partners.
    “We’re backing the people on the ground who are already doing great work—this fund is about scaling up, reaching further, and removing barriers for rural communities to lead their own wellbeing efforts,” Mr McClay says.
    This fund brings the Government’s total investment in rural resilience and mental health to more than $11 million over the next four years.
    “This package is about ensuring the farmers and growers who generate our export income, create jobs, and sustain our regions have the support they need to thrive,” Mr McClay says.
    “When rural New Zealand is well, New Zealand does well,” Mr McClay says.
    In addition to the Rural Wellbeing Fund, the Government has confirmed:

    $6 million over four years for Rural Support Trusts across the country;
    An extra $1 million in 2025 for frontline rural mental wellbeing services;
    $400,000 in grants for A&P shows that foster rural connection and pride; and
    $250,000 to support the expanded outreach work of Rural Women New Zealand in 2025/26.

    Expressions of interests for project funding are now open. For more information, visit www.mpi.govt.nz.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Responding to requests for a child or young person’s personal information

    Source: Privacy Commissioner

    This guidance aims to help agencies respond appropriately to requests for personal information about children and young people.  The guidance covers:

    • Information Privacy Principle 6 (IPP 6) of the Privacy Act 2020.
    • Who can make an IPP 6 request for information about a child or young person.
    • Requests made by parents, legal guardians or other caregivers, including:
      • when a parent, legal guardian or caregiver is acting as a representative of the child or young person.
      • whether the Privacy Act 2020 or the Official Information Act 1982 applies
      • what other laws may apply.
    • Requests made by a Lawyer for the Child.
    • Responsibilities of an agency before giving access to personal information.
    • Requests made by other agencies.
    • Applying the guidance in practice- some examples.

    Information Privacy Principle (IPP) 6 

    The Privacy Act applies to any individual regardless of age.  A child or young person has the same privacy rights as an adult but sometimes needs the assistance of another person to exercise those rights. 

    One of those rights is a person’s right to ask for information about themselves, set out in IPP 6. 

    An agency must respond to the requester within 20 working days and usually has to provide the information, unless one of the refusal grounds applies. 

    Read more general information about responding to IPP 6 requests.

    Information covered in this guidance

    Download a copy of this guidance (opens to PDF, 333 KB).

    Who can make an IPP 6 request about children and young people?

    An IPP 6 request may be made by the child or young person themselves or their representative. A representative is a person who is lawfully acting on the child or young person’s behalf.

    Information requests from parents, legal guardians or caregivers

    The Privacy Act does not provide an automatic right of access by a parent, legal guardian, or caregiver to their child’s personal information. 
    Assessing and processing a request from a parent, legal guardian or caregiver is a two-step process:

    1. Determine whether the parent, legal guardian or caregiver is a representative.
    2. If yes, then determine whether any of the refusal grounds apply. 

    In most cases, a parent or legal guardian can be considered a representative, particularly where the child is too young or otherwise not able to act on their own behalf. Where a caregiver is making the request, determining whether they are a representative may not be so clear cut as they won’t have the same legal status as a parent or legal guardian. 

    The circumstances will be different for each request, so it is important that an agency considers each request on a case-by-case basis before deciding whether the parent, legal guardian or caregiver is acting as a representative of the child or young person. 

    Step 1: When is a parent, legal guardian or caregiver a representative?

    For the purposes of IPP 6, a parent, legal guardian or caregiver may be considered representative of the child where:

    • the child is too young or otherwise not able to act on their own behalf, or
    • an older child or young person has authorised them to make the request on their behalf. 

    Before determining that a parent, legal guardian or caregiver is a representative, agencies should consider:

    • The age and maturity of the child and whether they are capable of understanding and exercising their rights under the Privacy Act.
    • Any court orders relating to parental access or responsibility (e.g. protection orders, custody and guardianship orders).
    • Whether, based on what is known to the agency, it is (or isn’t) likely to be in the best interests of the child or young person for the parent, legal guardian or caregiver requesting the information to be able to exercise their child’s Privacy Act rights on their behalf. 

    Where there is a family breakdown of some sort such as family harm, a custody or guardianship dispute or where the child is or has experienced abuse, the best interests of the child or young person should be a primary consideration. When determining whether it is in the best interests of the child or young person agencies should consider:

    • the interests of the parent, legal guardian, caregiver and the child or young person are no longer the same or are in conflict, and/or disclosing the information to the parent/legal guardian would go against the child’s interests.
    • whether there are reasonable grounds for believing the child or young person does not or would not wish the information to be disclosed.

    If any of the factors above exist, an agency may determine that a parent, guardian or caregiver is not acting as representative of the child or young person and the request does not fall under the Privacy Act. 

    Where a parent, guardian or caregiver is not a representative you can consider the request under the Official Information Act (see table below).  

    Non-custodial parents

    A non-custodial parent is the parent who doesn’t live with their child most of the time. Non-custodial parents with guardianship rights still have legal rights and responsibilities, ensuring they can maintain a relationship with their child.  A non-custodial parent has guardianship rights if they meet the test in section 17 of the Care of Children Act 2004 (or are otherwise appointed by the Court). 

    A non-custodial parent with guardianship rights can exercise their child’s privacy rights in the same way the custodial parent can, taking the wishes of the child into account if expressed or known (for older children or young people). 

    Where an agency receives an information request from a non-custodial parent with guardianship rights, it should follow the same process for managing a request from a custodial parent or other legal guardian.

    Step 2: Decision to release or refuse the request

    A representative does not have automatic access to a child or young person’s personal information. An agency still needs to consider whether any of the refusal grounds apply in the circumstances. 

    In situations where parents are separated, agencies do not need the consent of the other parent (either custodial or non-custodial) to disclose information about the child or young person. However, agencies should consider whether the child or young person’s personal information also reveals personal information about the other parent (e.g., the other parent’s home address or contact details where there is a protection order in place). 

    Read more general information about refusal grounds: Office of the Privacy Commissioner | Principle 6 – Access to personal information. 

    When a request for information should be managed as an Official Information Act request

    The Official Information Act (OIA) enables an individual to make a request for ‘official information’ (certain information held by public sector agencies). Official information can include personal information about other people, including children and young people. 

    Where the person requesting the information isn’t the child or young person or a representative, the request should be considered under the OIA. 

    The following table can help you determine which Act may apply depending on the specific circumstances of the request:

    Individual making request Purpose of request Applicable Act

    Child/young person – capable of making their own request.

    Their own personal information 

    Privacy Act

    Parent/legal guardian/caregiver of child/young person who is too young or not capable of exercising their rights.

    (Parent/legal guardian/caregiver probably a representative)

    Personal information about the child or young person

    Privacy Act, unless there are circumstances which suggest the Parent/Legal Guardian/caregiver is not acting on their behalf or in their best interests, then the request should be processed under the OIA

    Parent/legal guardian/caregiver of older child or young person capable of making their own request with the older child/young person’s authorisation to make the request on their behalf.

    (Parent/legal guardian/caregiver probably a representative)

    Personal information about the older child or young person 

    Privacy Act, unless there are circumstances which suggest the Parent/Legal Guardian/caregiver is not acting on their behalf or in their best interests, then the request should be processed under the OIA
    Parent/legal guardian/caregiver of older child capable of making their own request where the older child/young person has made it clear they do not authorise the requestor to make the request on their behalf.(Parent/legal guardian/caregiver is not a representative) Personal information about the older child or young person Part 2 OIA/LGOIMA. 
    All other cases where a parent/legal guardian/caregiver of child/young person is determined not to be a representative. Personal information about the child or young person

    Part 2 OIA/LGOIMA.
    Subject to eligibility requirements in the OIA (s 12(1)), but not the LGOIMA

    Other laws that may apply

    Agencies should also consider whether any other laws may apply to requests made by parents, legal guardians or caregivers and proactive disclosures of children and young person’s information. These laws include:

    • The Health Act 1956 and the Health Information Privacy Code (HIPC) regulate access to “health information” held by a “health agency”. Under the HIPC, parents or guardians of children under 16 years are legally defined as their ‘representatives’, whose access requests are treated as though made by the child themselves. 
      As with any information privacy request, these requests may be refused in certain circumstances (Rule 11(4) HIPC). 
    • Section 103 of the Education and Training Act 2020 says that principals should tell parents about matters affecting their child’s progress through school or relationships with others. 
    • Under IPP 11 of the Privacy Act 2020, an agency may disclose personal information to a third party if it believes there are reasonable grounds that one of the exceptions in IPP 11 applies. 

    For example, this could be when the child or young person authorises the disclosure (IPP11(1)(c)) or where disclosure to parents is one of (or is directly related to) the purposes for which an agency obtained the information (IPP11(1)(a)). 

    However, unlike IPP 6 and the OIA, IPP 11 does not give a right to access or request information. IPP 11 gives an agency discretion to disclose personal information where that agency considers it is necessary to do so (rather than legally being required to respond to a request for the information). Whether an exception applies will depend on the circumstances.

    Information requests from Lawyer for the Child

    A Lawyer for the Child is a specialist lawyer appointed by the Family Court to represent the interests of the child or young person in Family Court proceedings involving custody or guardianship disputes, or situations of family harm.

    To fulfil their responsibilities, the Lawyer for the Child often needs information about the child or young person held by agencies such as a school or healthcare provider. When making a request for information, the Lawyer for the Child will be acting as a representative for the child or young person.

    The Lawyer for the Child should provide evidence of their appointment and brief from the Family Court. (A Lawyer for the Child is appointed by Court Minute and receives their brief by letter from the Court.) If it not clear whether the requestor is acting as the Lawyer for the Child, you should ask them to provide evidence of their appointment before you provide access to any personal information.

    Responsibilities of an agency before giving access to personal information

    Providing access to personal information to an unauthorised person can cause serious harm to an individual and be a form of notifiable privacy breach – where the personal information is about children and young people the harm can be long lasting and significant.

    When providing access to personal information under IPP 6, the agency must (Section 57 of the Privacy Act 2020): 

    • be satisfied of the identity of the requestor (e.g. the child or young person or the representative)
    • not provide access to the information if the agency has reasonable grounds to believe that the request is being made under the threat of physical or mental harm (coercion)
    • ensure that the information intended for the requestor (or their representative) is provided to the right person.

    You may need to request additional information from the requestor to satisfy these requirements of the Privacy Act. 

    Confirming a requestor’s identity

    Where additional information is required to confirm a requestor’s identity the agency should inform the requestor what information is required and why. Agencies must also ensure that any identification documentation requested is securely destroyed once confirmation of the requestor’s identity has been made. 

    Where a decision has been made to grant access to personal information, agencies should confirm with the requestor (or their representative) the method in which they would like to receive the information and double check email, or postal addresses are correct.

    Read more about how you can confirm someone’s identity.

    Information requests from other agencies

    Where a request for information about a child or young person is made by another agency other laws may apply. These include:

    • Section 66C of the Oranga Tamariki Act permits Child Welfare and Protection Agencies to request and share information about children and young people for specified purposes. 
    • Section 20 of the Family Violence Act permits Family Violence Agencies to request and share information about individuals who have been subject to family harm for specified purposes.
    • Any law that requires the information to be provided to the requestor e.g. section 66 Oranga Tamariki Act, section 11 Social Security Act, section 17 Tax Administration Act.

    Where requests for information are made under one of these laws an agency cannot refuse the request under one of the IPP 11 refusal grounds (or a withholding ground under the OIA). An agency should assess the request and decide whether to share the requested information in line with the law under which the request was made. 

    Examples

    See examples of how this guidance is applied in practice.

    Download a copy of this guidance (opens to PDF, 333 KB).

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall Applauds FBI for Stopping Potential Billion-Dollar “Agroterrorism” Event Against Kansas’ Wheat Crops

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall
    Washington –U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) today issued a statement applauding the FBI’s recent arrest of two Chinese nationals, with alleged Chinese Communist Party (CCP) ties, who were caught smuggling the fungus Fusarium Graminearum into the United States. This fungus can cause ‘head blight’, which devastates wheat, barley, maize, and rice crops, and has caused billions of dollars in economic losses globally. When ingested, the toxins can cause liver damage, vomiting, and reproductive defects in both humans and livestock.
    “I want to thank FBI Director Kash Patel for saving Kansas’ economy and America’s food supply from potential ruin. Kansas, the largest wheat producer in America, faces the constant threat of wheat scab, a devastating disease that could wipe out a major portion of both Kansas’ and the United States’ economy,” said Senator Marshall. “I have long maintained that food security is national security, and the FBI’s arrest of two individuals with alleged ties to the Chinese Communist Party only reinforces the critical need to protect American agriculture from foreign influence, interference, and ownership.”
    Background:
    Senator Marshall previously introduced the Protecting American Agriculture from Foreign Adversaries Act, which would help prevent improper foreign interference and disruption to the U.S. agriculture industry.
    Senator Marshall has also continuously spoken out against the lies around COVID-19, both from China and the Biden-Harris Administration.  
    In 2024, Senator Marshall joined fellow Kansas U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (R-Kansas-01) in demanding that he stand up against a proposal before the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization’s (FAO) Council that would alter governance and leadership arrangements at the FAO, strengthen China’s position in the organization, and weaken American agricultural leadership on the world stage.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FOLLOWING HIS PUSH, SCHUMER ANNOUNCES EPA RELEASES $1.75 MILLION IN FED FUNDING TO PROTECT DRINKING WATER FOR 40,000 IN ONTARIO & WAYNE COUNTIES

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer

    Earlier This Spring, Schumer Called On EPA To Release $1.75M In Fed Funding He Secured For Canandaigua To Upgrade Drinking Water System To Remove Toxic Chemicals Linked To Liver And Kidney Damage And Cancer

    Canandaigua Had All Its Paperwork In Order For Months But Red Tape At The EPA Had Been Holding Up Progress, But Now Thanks To Schumer’s Push, Construction Can Begin As Planned

    Schumer: Fed $$ On The Way For Clean Water Across Ontario & Wayne Counties

    After calling on the EPA to cut through the red tape for the City of Canandaigua to install crucial equipment to remove disinfection by-product (DBP) chemicals from drinking water, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer announced the EPA has heeded his calls and released federal funding for the city to begin construction. Schumer explained the City of Canandaigua will remove disinfection by-product (DBP) chemicals – which have been linked to health issues including liver and kidney damage and cancer – from the water supply that over 40,000 New Yorkers across Ontario and Wayne Counties rely on.

    “Access to clean water and modern water-sewer systems are fundamental, and soon thousands more families from Canandaigua to Walworth will have access to cleaner drinking water. I was proud to secure $1.75 million in federal funding so Canandaigua can upgrade its drinking water system and eliminate harmful chemicals that have been linked to liver and kidney damage and cancer. When I heard the final agreement still hadn’t been signed, I pushed the EPA to release these funds ASAP so construction can start soon,” said Senator Schumer. “Now, this federal funding can start flowing to boost public health for over 40,000 New Yorkers across Ontario and Wayne Counties while creating good-paying jobs. I will always fight to keep New York’s drinking water clean and our communities safe and healthy.”

    Now that the EPA has signed off on the final agreement and released this federal funding, the City of Canandaigua can begin construction as planned. The city needed the EPA to sign off on the final agreement for construction to move forward, but had previously faced weeks of delays.

    Disinfection by-products (DBP) have recently been found in excess of the maximum contaminant level established by the EPA in the water of systems that have purchased the city’s water. Schumer secured $1.75 million in federal funding in the Fiscal Year 2024 Consolidated Appropriations Act to enable the City of Canandaigua to install a new aeration system into its three water storage tanks that will eliminate the DPA chemicals. This system will specifically integrate aerators and mixers into the city’s water storage tanks to eliminate the harmful DBPs from the drinking water supply. These DBPs are formed when disinfectants, like chlorine, react with naturally occurring substances in the water which have known toxicity and carcinogenic impacts that have been linked to liver and kidney damage and cancer.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: New Seasonal Drop-In Services in Saskatoon Support Youth and Individuals Experiencing Homelessness

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on June 10, 2025

    The Government of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon Tribal Council and the City of Saskatoon are moving forward on new community services to meet emerging needs in Saskatoon. This includes a daytime drop-in centre for individuals experiencing homelessness and an overnight drop-in centre for youth aged 16 and older. Both services are anticipated to open on June 15. 

    “Together with the Saskatoon Tribal Council and the City of Saskatoon, we are working as quickly as possible to meet the emerging needs we are seeing in the community,” Social Services Minister Terry Jenson said. “Saskatoon Tribal Council has been an invaluable partner in providing Indigenous-led, culturally reflective services founded on their ability to build meaningful relationships and trusting bonds with individuals and families experiencing homelessness.” 

    Located at Station 20 West, the new daytime drop-in centre is co-funded by the Government of Saskatchewan and the City of Saskatoon and operated by Saskatoon Tribal Council. It will provide a safe space, and access to support services for individuals experiencing homelessness from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. Saskatoon Tribal Council’s Sawēyihtotān project will offer outreach services including connections to emergency shelters and housing, coordinated access systems, recovery and mental health programs and services.  

    “The urgency could not be clearer — this partnership is a critical step in creating safe spaces for vulnerable people in Saskatoon,” said Mayor Cynthia Block. “The City is committed to keeping the momentum going and working closely with our partners to open centres that are Indigenous-led and grounded in community.”

    To provide a safe space for youth throughout the summer months, the Government of Saskatchewan is partnering with Saskatoon Tribal Council to provide an overnight drop-in centre for youth 16 and older. Located at the White Buffalo Youth Lodge, the centre will be open from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m. and provide food and a place to rest as well as an on-site elder, shower and laundry services, case planning and referrals to programs in the community.  

    “These two new drop-in centres will offer safety, dignity and support when it is needed most,” Tribal Chief Mark Arcand said. “Homelessness disproportionately impacts Indigenous people, and we cannot ignore that reality. These facilities will help keep people safe and create opportunities for us to do what the Saskatoon Tribal Council does best: building trust and connection with our relatives. That is the first step toward linking them with the wraparound supports and services that can truly change lives. Real solutions come when governments and community partners work together, and that is exactly what we are doing.” 

    Since the announcement of the $40.2M Provincial Approach to Homelessness, the Government of Saskatchewan has collaborated with all levels of government and Indigenous and community partners to develop new emergency and complex needs shelter spaces, supportive housing spaces and street outreach, warming centres and community safety responses.  The two new services in Saskatoon build on these investments as the Government of Saskatchewan continues to work with communities to respond to arising needs.    

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Balancing drug coverage for the long-term

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Update 3: Alberta wildfire update (June 10, 3 p.m.)

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Pointing to success: Marathon potential is in your hands – literally

    Source:

    11 June 2025

    Is your ring finger longer than your index finger? If so, you may be great in endurance sports.

    Whether it’s a personal challenge, for charity, or on your bucket list, marathons are one of the most sought-after goals for amateur and recreational runners worldwide.

    Now, a world-first study from the University of South Australia and the University of North Dakota suggests that a person’s marathon potential may be identified through a simple check of their hands.

    In a meta-analysis of 22 studies (representing 5293 participants and 12 countries) researchers found that a lower digit ratio – when a person’s ring finger is longer than their index finger – is a biomarker of cardiorespiratory fitness, specifically exercise tolerance and endurance performance.                                      

    The findings indicate that someone with longer ring fingers than index fingers may perform better in endurance sports like marathons or long-distance cycling.

    While previous studies have explored digit ratio and sports performance, this is the most comprehensive synthesis of evidence for digit ratio and cardiorespiratory fitness, and the first meta-analysis to link it specifically to exercise tolerance and endurance performance.

    Exercise tolerance is the level of physical activity an individual can endure before experiencing excessive fatigue. Endurance performance is the ability to sustain physical activity for long periods, often at a moderate to high intensity.

    UniSA researcher and PhD candidate Bethany Gower says that digit ratios could present a useful, low-cost screening tool for spotting potential in high-performance endurance athletes.

    “Measuring and comparing finger lengths might seem like a novelty, but research shows that this is a proven and biologically sound method for identifying muscle strength – and now, endurance performance,” Gower says.

    “Our research found that digit ratio is significantly linked to exercise tolerance, which reflects the highest intensity of exercise you can tolerate for a long time before it becomes too challenging to continue.

    “What this means is that people with lower digit ratios – a ring finger longer than their index finger – are more likely to tolerate increasing exercise intensity and perform better in longer-duration activities, such as marathons or distance cycling.

    “It’s a significant finding that could help coaches and sports scientists identify talent, or help recreational athletes better understand their endurance potential.”

    With elite athletes soon to compete in the Tour de France (5 July – 20 July) or the TCS Sydney Marathon (31 August), it’s a curiosity that could be put to the test.

    Prof Grant Tomkinson says that digit ratios are determined during early foetal development.

    “Greater exposure to testosterone in the womb has been linked with the development of lower digit ratios, which could influence a person’s ability to exercise intensely,” Prof Tomkinson says.  

    “It also has short-term benefits in later life by helping ‘charge’ the endocrine system to respond to challenging situations, like intense exercise, by suddenly spiking testosterone levels.

    “This could manifest as people having stronger body systems or organs that physically improve their ability to tolerate intense aerobic exercise, or as a stronger psychosocial, competitive response to being challenged when exercising.”

    For everyday athletes curious about their fitness potential, Gower says there’s a simple way to get a clue – just look at your fingers.

    “Digit ratio is easy to measure – just compare the length of your index and ring fingers of your hand. If your ring finger is longer, you’ve got a lower ratio.

    “You never know – your fingers might just reveal you’re built for endurance.”

    The University of South Australia and the University of Adelaide are joining forces to become Australia’s new major university – Adelaide University. Building on the strengths, legacies and resources of two leading universities, Adelaide University will deliver globally relevant research at scale, innovative, industry-informed teaching and an outstanding student experience. Adelaide University will open its doors in January 2026. Find out more on the Adelaide University website.

    …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

    Contacts for interview:

    Bethany Gower E: bethany.gower@unisa.edu.au

    Prof Grant Tomkinson E: grant.tomkinson@unisa.edu.au

    UniSA media contacts:

    Josh Owen-Thomas M: +61 428 715 401 E: josh.owen-thomas@unisa.edu.au

    Annabel Mansfield M: +61 479 182 489 E: Annabel.Mansfield@unisa.edu.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Energy Secretary Wright Testifies Before House Energy Subcommittee on FY2026 Budget Request

    Source: US Department of Energy

    WASHINGTON— U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright testified today before the U.S. House Energy Subcommittee on the Department of Energy’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget request.

    Last month, Secretary Wright testified before the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development and the U.S. House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development to outline the Department’s priorities and provide an overview of the FY2026 request.

    The FY2026 Budget aligns with President Trump’s directive to restore American energy dominance and rein in bloated federal spending. It brings non-defense discretionary spending to the most disciplined level since 2017 and redirects more than $15 billion away from Green New Scam programs that drive up costs and weaken the U.S. energy system. For more details, view the budget toplines here.

    Secretary Wright’s opening remarks:

    Thank you Chairman Latta, Chairman Guthrie, Ranking Member Castor, and Ranking Member Pallone, and Members of the Committee. It is an honor to appear before you today as Secretary of Energy to discuss the President’s Fiscal Year 2026 Budget request for the Department of Energy.   

    Under President Trump’s leadership, our priorities for the Department are clear – to unleash a golden era of American energy dominance, strengthen our national security, and lead the world in innovation. A reliable and abundant energy supply is the foundation of a strong and prosperous nation. When America leads in energy, we lead in prosperity, security and human flourishing.  

    America has a historic opportunity to secure our energy systems, propel scientific and technological innovation, including AI; maintain and strengthen our weapons stockpiles; and meet Cold War legacy waste commitments. The Department of Energy will advance this critical mission while cutting red tape, increasing efficiency, and ensuring we are better stewards of taxpayer dollars.   

    The President’s Fiscal Year 26 budget will ensure taxpayer resources are allocated appropriately and cost-effectively. We will invest DOE’s resources in sources and technologies that support affordable, reliable, and secure energy and provide a return on investment for the American taxpayers. We will return the Department to its core mission and eliminate spending on projects that fail to provide such a return, fail to advance our energy needs, and fail the test of economic viability.  

    It is deeply concerning how many billions of dollars were rushed out the door without proper due diligence in the final days of the Biden administration. DOE is undertaking a thorough review of financial assistance that identifies waste of taxpayer dollars, protects America’s national security and advances President Trump’s commitment to unleash American energy dominance.  As a result, we recently announced the termination of 24 projects totaling over $3.7 billion in taxpayer-funded financial assistance. These projects failed to meet the economic, national security or energy security standards necessary to sustain DOE’s investment, and the taxpayers should not be forced to subsidize them. 

    Instead, we are advancing a policy of energy addition – fully leveraging affordable, reliable and secure resources that have powered our country for generations. The United States is blessed with an abundance of coal, oil, and natural gas, and our Administration is committed to using them to meet growing energy needs of the American people.  

    Every one of these resources was unleashed through the world-changing power of American innovation. Our National Labs are the engine that drives research and development to expand our energy dominance. We will prioritize research that supports true technological breakthroughs and maintains America’s global competitiveness. 

    America must play a leading role commercializing of reliable, safe and secure nuclear energy, and we are taking steps to accelerate innovation in this sector. DOE is working to advance the rapid deployment of next-generation nuclear technology, including small modular reactors.  

    I am proud to report that we have officially ended the previous administration’s reckless pause on LNG export permits and have returned to regular order for reviewing and approving new permits. DOE will also work to replenish the Strategic Petroleum Reserve – a national asset that protects our security in times of crisis. I want to thank this committee for prioritizing funding to refill the SPR in the One Big Beautiful Bill as well. 

    We are advancing President Trump’s pledge to lower the cost of living and expand choice by rightsizing DOE’s approach to home efficiency standards and regulations. Under the President’s direction, we’ve begun slashing more than 47 regulations as part of the largest deregulatory effort in history. These actions are projected to save the American people approximately $11 billion while restoring consumer freedom and lowering costs. 

    The responsible stewardship and modernization of the nation’s nuclear weapons system is paramount for this Administration. DOE is focused on addressing critical upgrades for the U.S. nuclear stockpile and maintaining our engine powerhouses for submarines and aircraft carriers.  Both tasks will be even more crucial in the next few years. 

    Our nuclear innovation as a nation began with the Manhattan Project, and the next Manhattan Project is clearly AI. DOE has a significant role to play in driving AI innovation for scientific discovery and national security. Our agency has world-class high-performance computing capabilities, including four of the world’s top ten supercomputers.  

    Harnessing our energy potential to power global AI leadership while meeting growing energy demand will be the challenge of our time. But America doesn’t back down from big challenges or big builds.  

    As Secretary of Energy, I am honored by the responsibility to help meet the American people’s growing energy needs and lead the world in energy development. I appreciated the opportunity to work with many of you on this committee to unlock America’s full energy potential and drive down costs for families with the One Big Beautiful Bill, and I look forward to continuing to work together to achieve President Trump’s energy dominance agenda. 

    Thank you for the opportunity to testify before this committee.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 2139, Strengthening State and Local Efforts to Counter Transnational Repression Act

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    H.R. 2139 would require the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to develop a training program to enhance nonfederal law enforcement agencies’ preparedness for and response to transnational repression and related terrorist threats. The bill also would require DHS to conduct, to the extent practicable, research and development on technology to increase participation in training offered to nonfederal law enforcement and to share information on identifying and collecting information on such threats. Lastly, the bill would require the Government Accountability Office to report to the Congress within two years of enactment on the implementation of the bill.

    Using information from DHS, CBO estimates that developing and implementing the training program would cost $5 million over the 2025-2030 period. Additionally, based on the costs of similar activities, CBO estimates that completing the report would cost $1 million. Because DHS already conducts research and development to enhance its security and intergovernmental awareness, CBO expects implementing that provision would cost less than $500,000. In total, CBO estimates that implementing H.R. 2139 would cost $6 million over the 2025-2030 period. Any related spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.

    The CBO staff contact for this estimate is Jeremy Crimm. The estimate was reviewed by H. Samuel Papenfuss, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 1508, DHS Special Events Program and Support Act

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    H.R. 1508 would codify the Special Event Assessment Rating (SEAR) program that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) currently administers. Under that program, state and local governments submit events to an inter-agency working group that assesses each event for potential security risks, such as terrorist attacks and other hazards. Depending on the level of risk determined by the group, DHS and other federal agencies may provide support to the state or local government in managing security operations for the event.

    H.R. 1508 also would require DHS to report to the Congress annually on the program’s activities and once every five years on the program’s effectiveness. Lastly, the bill would require DHS to engage in research and development of emerging technologies that would enhance the department’s efforts to support federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial agencies with respect to mass gatherings.

    Based on the costs of similar activities, CBO estimates that implementing H.R. 1508 would cost less than $500,000 over the 2025-2030 period, primarily to comply with the bill’s reporting requirements. Any related spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.

    Under current law, DHS already can conduct research and development of emerging technologies to enhance its security and intergovernmental awareness. On that basis, CBO estimates that the cost of implementing that provision and codifying the existing SEAR program would be insignificant.

    The CBO staff contact for this estimate is Jeremy Crimm. The estimate was reviewed by H. Samuel Papenfuss, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Kelly Announces Service Academy Appointment

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Trent Kelly (R-Miss)

    Congressman Kelly Announces Service Academy Appointment

    Washington, June 6, 2025

    WASHINGTON –  U.S. Representative Trent Kelly announces the appointment of Henry Gaschk of Olive Branch, Mississippi, to the U.S. Air Force Academy. Each year, members of Congress may nominate candidates to the U.S. service academies. These institutions prepare young men and women to become leaders in the U.S. Armed Forces while receiving a top-tier education. Gaschk, a senior at Lewisburg High School, has demonstrated excellence in academics, athletics, and leadership. He has served as varsity soccer captain and received honors including the Randy West Mississippi State All-Star, MHSAA North Mississippi All-Star, and Offensive Player of the Year award. In addition to his athletic achievements, Gaschk is committed to community service, volunteering with organizations such as Mississippi Project Package and The Arc of Northwest Mississippi. His academic achievements include being named a National Merit Semi-Finalist and receiving top subject averages in multiple disciplines. Gaschk’s leadership experiences include serving as an officer in the National Honor Society, a member of the Olive Branch Mayor’s Youth Council, and lead gatekeeper for the Southaven Parks Department. He is also involved in the English Honor Society, Chess Club, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

    “I’m excited to attend the United States Air Force Academy because it offers the opportunity to challenge myself academically and physically while preparing me for a career in the military,” Gaschk said. “I plan to study Systems Engineering and hope to become a pilot or pursue a master’s degree, eventually working in Air Force contracting.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 2116, Law Enforcement Support and Counter Transnational Repression Act

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    H.R. 2116 would require the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to conduct a public service outreach campaign to educate the public and international allies about transnational repression and related terrorist threats. The outreach campaign would include information on resources and ways for victims of threats and intimidation by foreign governments and related terrorism threats to anonymously contact the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The bill also would require DHS to engage in research and development of technologies and techniques that would help state and local governments counter transnational repression and related threats.

    Based on the costs of similar outreach campaigns, CBO expects that the required campaign would have no significant costs. Under current law, DHS can conduct research and development to enhance its security and intergovernmental situational awareness. On that basis, CBO estimates that implementing H.R. 2116 would cost less than $500,000 over the 2025-2030 period. Any related spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.

    The CBO staff contact for this estimate is Jeremy Crimm. The estimate was reviewed by H. Samuel Papenfuss, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Aguilar: House Democrats will continue to fight for a stronger economy and lower costs

    Source: US House of Representatives – Democratic Caucus

    The following text contains opinion that is not, or not necessarily, that of MIL-OSI – June 10, 2025

    WASHINGTON, DC — Today, House Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar, Vice Chair Ted Lieu and DCCC Chair Suzan DelBene held a press conference highlighting the politically toxic Republican Budget, which throws 16 million people off their health insurance to pay for tax breaks for billionaires.

    CHAIRMAN AGUILAR: I’m grateful, as always, to be joined by Caucus Vice Chair Ted Lieu, and today we’re joined by Chair Suzan DelBene, who shared an update this morning about our path to a House majority in 2026.

    House Democrats are winning on the economy, we are winning on health care and we’re going to win back the fight for the American people to lead this country at this moment. And the weak and cowardly actions of Donald Trump are evidence of this. Just a few days ago, the world’s richest man, and Donald Trump’s biggest campaign contributor, betrayed the President and called on Republicans in the Senate to kill Trump’s signature piece of legislation—which throws 16 million people off of their health insurance to pay for more tax breaks for billionaires. Elon Musk did this not to protect the people who rely on Medicaid and food assistance to meet their basic needs, but because the bill doesn’t go far enough to enrich him and his companies. Musk even said that Trump’s reckless tariffs will cause a recession. Trump knows all of this. He knows that the Republican Budget is politically toxic, he knows that the economy is crashing because of his policies and he is desperate to change the subject. He sees the protests in Los Angeles as an excuse to unleash more chaos and distract the American people from the failing economy and his plans to cut Medicaid and food assistance. Remember: Donald Trump refused to call up the National Guard on January 6th when thousands of violent rioters stormed the U.S. Capitol in search of his own Vice President. This isn’t about law and order or protecting public safety. Donald Trump wants conflict and violence. House Democrats stand on the side of peaceful protests and condemn the violence that Donald Trump is rooting for. We will continue to fight for a stronger economy and lower costs. Vice Chair Ted Lieu.

    VICE CHAIR LIEU: Thank you, Chairman Aguilar. Peacefully protesting is an American right. It’s part of the rich tradition of our country. Burning cars, looting and destroying property are crimes, and anyone who takes advantage of this situation and engages in those crimes should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. State and local law enforcement have repeatedly said they have the resources necessary to handle the situation. It is completely un-American and needlessly provocative for Donald Trump to deploy the National Guard and Marines to Southern California. So, I want to talk about the National Guard first. Their legal authority Trump is using is 10 U.S.C. Section 12406. I encourage all of you to read it. It very specifically says the only way he can do this is through the orders of the Governors of the states. Governor Newsom clearly has not given this order; the National Guard troops are following unlawful orders. I ask every National Guard person who is under this order to read the order, to see if it came from Governor Newsom and then to read the law and then decide for themselves if they are following unlawful orders. It also turns out that when Secretary Hegseth ordered this deployment, and in carrying out those orders, he put all these troops into Southern California without federal funding for food, water, fuel, equipment. They were sleeping on the floor. They were sleeping on each other. It is a complete mess. Secretary Hegseth’s repeated incompetence is next level. He needs to resign. And in terms of the Marines deployment, we should not be deploying Marines against Americans. Marines are trained to kill the enemy. What are they going to do at this protest? They’re going to shoot protesters? What exactly is their role? They are not trained to do crowd control. They are not trained to handle these kinds of situations. They are not trained for law enforcement. So I asked the President to rescind his orders. He’s being needlessly provocative and inflammatory.

    And Chairman Aguilar is right. He is losing on his Big Ugly Bill. It is going to give massive tax breaks to billionaires and it’s going to be funded by the greatest health care cuts in U.S. history. So, do not fall for the trap that the President is laying here with his shiny objects that he’s trying to do. Focus on how he’s messing up the economy, messing up your health care. And with that, I want to introduce our amazing DCCC Chair Suzan DelBene from Washington, she’s going to be the field general that leads us to flipping the House next year.

    DCCC CHAIR DELBENE: Thanks to Chair Aguilar and Vice Chair Lieu. This morning, in Caucus, we presented research on how House Republicans will lose the majority next year because of their One Big Broken Promise. It’s been only two weeks since House Republicans narrowly passed their legislation, and the more people learn about it, the more unpopular it becomes. Across the country, Americans have come out strongly against this tax scam. They’ve held protests outside of Republicans’ district offices against the cuts to Medicaid and nutrition programs. And in the very few in-person town halls that Republicans have held, we’ve seen incredibly large crowds turn out in opposition to their legislation. But, despite the overwhelming local opposition to the Big Ugly Bill from their constituents, vulnerable House Republicans are embracing it and resorting to lies when talking about it. Well, they can lie all they want, but there’s no denying the objective harm that it will cause. Independent, non-partisan analysts have said that instead of lowering costs for everyday people, House Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill raises costs on them. It will kick 16 million Americans off of their health insurance. It cuts food assistance programs, like free school lunch. It takes a chainsaw to these popular programs to pay for tax breaks for the wealthiest few.

    This Big Ugly Bill affirms everything voters already think about Republicans: that they don’t work for the American people, they work for the billionaire class. It’s clear that public support for the Republican agenda is cratering. Recent public polling shows that a majority of voters in House Republican battleground districts oppose the bill. They also revealed that most Americans agree that the GOP tax scam will help the wealthy and hurt working families. These public surveys line up with the internal research we’ve done in partnership with our Senate colleagues, and it’s what we presented to the Caucus this morning. We found that just 25% of voters think the GOP tax scam will help them and their families. The same internal research showed that Republicans’ massive cuts to popular programs are toxic with voters. We see there is a clear argument that is incredibly persuasive to voters. Instead of lowering costs, Republicans are raising costs, cutting health care and food assistance to pay for billionaire tax giveaways. 

    This vote is the defining contrast of the midterms. Remember, every single vulnerable House Republican voted for this disastrous piece of legislation. And since it passed by one vote, each one casts the deciding vote, any one of them could have stood up to stop it. But instead, they sided with the ultra-wealthy, while costs are out of control and everyday Americans are struggling. With this vote, vulnerable House Republicans have already sealed their political fate, and it’s one that they will come to regret next year when House Democrats retake the majority. Thank you. 

    Video of the full press conference and Q&A can be viewed here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dr. Oz Turns 65, Launches Videos to Help Americans Navigate Medicare Enrollment

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services

    As he turns 65 on Wednesday, June 11, CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz is using his own Medicare enrollment experience to help Americans better understand how to sign up for Medicare and select the coverage that best fits their needs. Through a new video and social media series, Dr. Oz is walking future enrollees through simple steps they can take to get started—beginning with Medicare.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: 🚨Salvadoran criminal alien Jose Angel Zalaya is arrested by #ICE Washington, D.C., officers

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    WATCH as Salvadoran criminal alien Jose Angel Zalaya is arrested by ICE Washington, D.C., officers last week.

    Convictions:
    Felony unlawful wounding
    2 DUIs
    Driving w/o a license

    Report suspicious criminal behavior: 866-DHS-2-ICE

    #shorts #shortvideo #short

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sYLRGe7sbIM

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Deputy Assistant Secretary Micah Bock hosts This Week at DHS

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    June 1-8, 2025
    This week: DHS is protecting America – one arrest, one confiscation, and one deportation at a time.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lGJpUd5MdJc

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Department of State Press Briefing – June 10, 2025

    Source: United States of America – Department of State (video statements)

    Spokesperson Tammy Bruce leads the Department Press Briefing at the Department of State, on June 10, 2025.

    ———-
    Under the leadership of the President and Secretary of State, the U.S. Department of State leads America’s foreign policy through diplomacy, advocacy, and assistance by advancing the interests of the American people, their safety and economic prosperity. On behalf of the American people we promote and demonstrate democratic values and advance a free, peaceful, and prosperous world.

    The Secretary of State, appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate, is the President’s chief foreign affairs adviser. The Secretary carries out the President’s foreign policies through the State Department, which includes the Foreign Service, Civil Service and U.S. Agency for International Development.

    Get updates from the U.S. Department of State at www.state.gov and on social media!
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/statedept
    X: https://x.com/StateDept
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/statedept
    Flickr: https://flickr.com/photos/statephotos/
    Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/StateDept
    Substack: https://statedept.substack.com

    Watch on-demand State Department videos: https://video.state.gov/
    Subscribe to The Week at State e-newsletter: https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USSTATEBPA/signup/32562

    State Department website: https://www.state.gov/
    Careers website: https://careers.state.gov/
    White House website: https://www.whitehouse.gov/
    Terms of Use: https://state.gov/tou

    #StateDepartment #DepartmentofState #Diplomacy

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pubjmmjqNSU

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Next Steps After Applying for FEMA Assistance (American Sign Language)

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Here’s what you can expect from FEMA after completing your disaster assistance application. This includes, how to stay in touch with FEMA, information about home inspections and how FEMA may contact you.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ryNgsCjqP3U

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Next Steps After Applying for FEMA Assistance

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Here’s what you can expect from FEMA after completing your disaster assistance application. This includes, how to stay in touch with FEMA, information about home inspections and how FEMA may contact you.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=31lQzNga-oo

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: What to Expect Before Applying for FEMA Assistance

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Here’s what you will need to know before starting the application. This includes what assistance is available, what documents you will need to provide, and what types of questions you will be asked.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9RF3tqG5Xhc

    MIL OSI Video –