NewzIntel.com

Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Piero Cipollone: The quest for cheaper and faster cross-border payments: regional and global solutions

    Source: European Central Bank

    Speech by Piero Cipollone, Member of the Executive Board of the ECB, at the BIS Annual General Meeting

    Basel, 27 June 2025

    Cross-border retail payments are the subject of increasing attention. This is for two main reasons.

    First, they play a growing role in the world economy, as international transaction volumes have been increasing at a faster pace than GDP growth. However, despite some improvements in recent years, many payment corridors remain poorly served, which results in slow transaction times and high costs and ultimately hinders economic growth and social cohesion. Moreover, this inefficiency undermines the benefits of globalisation, as the economic gains from lower trade barriers are diverted into rents within cross-border payment markets, rather than benefiting the businesses and households that make use of them.

    Second, new risks are emerging. Geopolitical tensions, for instance, could lead to further fragmentation of global payment systems. Moreover, the expansion of stablecoins could introduce several additional challenges, including currency substitution risks and over-reliance on a limited number of dominant private issuers.

    This is not a situation we can accept passively. We need continuous efforts to enhance cross-border payments, in line with the G20 Roadmap.[1] And central banks, given their role in ensuring the smooth functioning of payment systems, have a major role to play. Significant work has already been undertaken at international level, notably by the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) and the Financial Stability Board (FSB).

    Today, I would like to share our experience with cross-border payments from a regional perspective, emphasising how regional payment infrastructures can be part of the solution. I will then discuss our vision for advancing cross-border payments at the global level.

    The case for enhancing cross-border retail payments

    Let me begin by underscoring the costs and risks of inaction.

    Over the past few decades, the world has witnessed a surge in cross-border payments, driven by the globalisation of trade, capital and migration flows. According to some estimates, the value of cross-border retail payments could grow from close to USD 200 trillion last year to USD 320 trillion by 2032.[2]

    Yet, the average cost of international retail payments remains high. For nearly one-quarter of global payment corridors, costs exceed 3%. And in too many cases, they are slow – one-third of retail cross-border payments took more than one business day to be settled in 2024.[3]

    Worryingly, there are signs that progress is stalling. The FSB’s 2024 progress report revealed no improvements in costs and noted a deterioration in both costs and speed compared with 2023.[4]

    Geopolitical tensions further compound these challenges, as they risk fragmenting global payment systems and undermining the rules-based international order. This could challenge established correspondent banking networks and lead to greater complexity, higher costs and, in a worst-case scenario, the splintering of the global payment system into multiple, non-communicating blocs.

    This raises three pressing issues.

    First, high costs and slow transaction times are hampering economic integration and growth, with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) bearing the brunt. For SMEs operating on tight margins, exorbitant fees discourage them from participating in cross-border trade.

    Second, the world’s most vulnerable groups – such as migrant workers sending remittances home – shoulder a disproportionate share of these costs. In many regions, sending money internationally remains prohibitively expensive. For example, the average costs of remittances to sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia stand at 7.7% and 6.2% respectively.[5] As it stands, the global Sustainable Development Goal target of lowering remittance costs to 3% remains a distant goal. The impact that reducing these fees would have on financial inclusion and well-being cannot be overstated.

    Third, inefficiencies in cross-border payments have created a gap that alternative players, particularly in the crypto-asset space, are eager to fill. However, many of these solutions come with significant risks. Unbacked crypto-assets, for instance, are highly volatile and speculative in nature, creating risks for unsuspecting households and businesses and lending themselves to illicit activities.[6]

    Furthermore, stablecoins come with their own set of challenges, which the BIS described in detail in a special chapter of its Annual Economic Report published this week.[7] Stablecoins carry credit risk, making them susceptible to runs, and pose fragmentation risks due to the multitude of stablecoins being issued. Some of these could end up trading at a discount, undermining the singleness of money.[8] Moreover, because a small number of issuers currently dominate the market, this could also give rise to concentration risks. Lastly, a key concern is the prevalence of US dollar stablecoins, which currently account for 99% of the global stablecoin market.[9] These stablecoins provide an easy way to store value in dollars, considerably increasing the risk of currency substitution in the form of “digital dollarisation”.[10] This phenomenon could have destabilising effects, particularly on emerging markets and less developed economies by impairing the effectiveness of domestic monetary policy. It may also increase the risk of capital flight in response to adverse economic shocks.

    Enhancing cross-border retail payments at the regional and global level

    To address inefficiencies in cross-border payments, we must offer an alternative that connects various parts of the global payments system and delivers tangible benefits in terms of speed and cost. At the same time, this solution must respect the integrity, sovereignty and stability of all countries involved.

    At the ECB, we are pursuing this on two levels – regional and global.

    Regional cross-border payments: the European experience

    At the regional level, Europe serves as a compelling example of what an interconnected payments landscape might look like.

    Of course, this has been facilitated by the creation of a single European market and the establishment of a monetary union. One of the key reasons for creating the euro was to support trade and investment by facilitating cross-border transactions. And the launch of our single currency offered a first solution to pay throughout the euro area – in the form of euro cash.

    The logical next step was to develop European instruments for electronic euro payments. The Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA) emerged from close cooperation between the public and private sector to harmonise electronic euro transactions. As a result, individuals and businesses can make payments across the euro area at very low costs using credit transfers or direct debit.

    The success of SEPA led to its expansion beyond the euro area and even beyond the European Union. Today, customers in 41 European countries can make euro payments quickly, safely and efficiently via credit transfer and direct debit, just as they would for domestic transactions.

    We have also developed the TARGET Instant Payment Settlement (TIPS) service, which enables the settlement of instant payments across the euro area. Instant payments are further supported by a payment scheme – the SEPA Instant Credit Transfer scheme – that provides harmonised rules, standards and protocols. Moreover, EU legislation has made it mandatory for banks to allow their customers to send and receive instant payment at low cost.

    A key feature of TIPS is that it’s a multi-currency platform. Taking advantage of this, Sweden and Denmark are using TIPS to facilitate fast payments in their respective currencies.[11] Norway will do the same as of 2028.[12] Furthermore, we are implementing a cross-currency settlement service that will allow instant payments initiated in one TIPS currency to be settled in another. Initially, this service will support cross-currency payments between the euro area, Sweden and Denmark.[13]

    Within Europe, we are also supporting the Western Balkans in developing a regional fast payment system.[14] As a service provider for TIPS, the Banca d’Italia is collaborating with the central banks of Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo and Montenegro to develop an instant, multi-currency payment system based on TIPS software. North Macedonia may join the initiative at a later stage.[15] The new platform will facilitate instant payments both within each participating country and across borders.

    Going global: interlinking fast payment systems

    This shows the potential for strengthening regional integration in payments. However, let me be clear: regional integration must not come at the expense of global connectivity. It should not be used as a means to sever ties with global payment networks.

    Our approach is that regional and global integration can go hand in hand through the interlinking of fast payment systems across regions and countries. Today, over 100 jurisdictions worldwide have implemented their own fast payment systems.[16] Interlinking these systems has the potential to address inefficiencies and build lasting connections that are rooted in trade openness and balanced relationships between partners.

    This approach offers several advantages. It would reduce costs, increase the speed and transparency of cross-border payments and shorten transaction chains. It would also enable payment service providers to conduct transactions without having to use multiple payment systems or a long chain of correspondent banks. Moreover, it would ensure that the platform for connecting and converting currencies is managed as a public good, thus avoiding closed loops and discriminatory pricing. Accordingly, the G20 Roadmap for Enhancing Cross-border Payments has identified interlinking as a key strategy for enhancing cross-border payments.[17] In this respect, the excellent work the Committee on Payments and Market Infrastructures (CPMI) is carrying out on payee verification could make a significant difference.

    Last October, the ECB’s Governing Council decided to take concrete steps towards interlinking TIPS with other fast payment systems to improve cross-border payments globally.[18]

    We will implement a cross-currency settlement service for the exchange of cross-border payments between TIPS and other fast payment systems worldwide.[19] This will allow us to explore interlinking TIPS with fast payment systems that have a compatible scheme, are interested in being involved and fully comply with the standards set by the Financial Action Task Force for combating money laundering and terrorist financing.

    In addition, we are exploring the possibility of creating bilateral and multilateral links with other fast payment systems.

    One possibility under consideration is connecting TIPS to a multilateral network of instant payment systems through Project Nexus, led by the BIS.[20] By joining Nexus, TIPS could serve as a hub for processing instant cross-border payments to and from the euro area and other countries that use TIPS.[21]

    We are also currently assessing the feasibility of creating a bilateral link between TIPS and India’s Unified Payments Interface[22], which handles the highest volume of instant payment transactions in the world[23].

    Interlinking fast payment systems has the potential to solve the shortcomings related to the messaging leg of cross-border transactions, by facilitating the message that the payer’s bank in country A sends to the payee’s bank in country B about the incoming transfer of funds. This would already go a long way towards improving the efficiency of cross-border payments.

    However, what interlinking does not fully resolve is the settlement leg, through which money moves from the payer’s to the payee’s account. This still requires a bank that has access to both payment systems that are interlinked, or a credit relationship between a bank in country A and a bank in country B. This is particularly challenging, given the increasing retrenchment of the correspondent banking model.

    In this context, we need to collectively exercise our creativity. I do not envisage a solution that could cover all possible corridors and use cases: there may be scope for tokenised forms of money, as well as a revival of the correspondent banking model, especially if we can reduce the associated risks.

    In the realm of sovereign money, jurisdictions could agree to use their respective central bank digital currencies as settlement assets. In this respect, the current draft legislation on the digital euro provides for an approach that respects the sovereignty of non-euro area countries and mitigates potential risks for them. It does so by opening the possibility for residents of a partner country to use the digital euro, subject to an agreement with that country, complemented by an arrangement between the ECB and the respective central bank.[24]

    Appropriate safeguards – such as individual holding limits for users – would ensure that the digital euro is used primarily as a means of payment and does not fuel currency substitution. Furthermore, the digital euro’s design would include multi-currency functionality, similar to that of TIPS. In practice, this means that non-euro area countries could use the digital euro infrastructure to offer their own digital currencies, thereby facilitating transactions across these currencies.

    Conclusion

    Let me conclude.

    We find ourselves at a pivotal moment for cross-border payments. If we want to make decisive progress and increase their efficiency, we need to work together to develop new solutions. We must, however, be aware of the risks that some of the alternatives on offer may pose.

    I would like to thank the BIS – and in particular the CPMI – for the active role they play in this area, not least by bringing us all together today, with representatives from A (Angola) to Z (Zambia). Each of us brings different needs and circumstances to the table. This raises two fundamental questions. What do we have in common? And what principles can guide our collective efforts?

    First, we must harness responsible innovation to solve persistent challenges while mitigating the risks I have noted today. Central banks – by ensuring the safety and integrity of payment systems – play an important role in this regard. And by interlinking fast payment systems and exploring the use of central bank digital currencies, we can address settlement inefficiencies while safeguarding monetary sovereignty and financial stability.

    Second, regional solutions can serve as a foundation for global progress. I have argued that regional payment integration can be an important part of the solution – provided it remains open to, and actively facilitates, interlinking at a global level. We firmly believe that this open, multi-currency interlinking approach can lay the groundwork for cheaper, faster and more transparent cross-border payments – without compromising the integrity, stability or sovereignty of the countries involved. By designing payment systems that are open, interoperable and multi-currency ready, we can ensure that regional initiatives contribute to global integration rather than fragmentation.

    Finally, collaboration is central to our collective success. Forums such as the CPMI community of practice, as well as today’s workshop, provide valuable opportunities for sharing knowledge and experiences. We will continue to find ways to work together to build resilient, inclusive and interconnected payment infrastructures that meet the needs of our people and economies. And we at the ECB remain committed to sharing our expertise and collaborating wherever we can add value.

    Thank you for your attention.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Piero Cipollone: The quest for cheaper and faster cross-border payments: regional and global solutions

    Source: European Central Bank

    Speech by Piero Cipollone, Member of the Executive Board of the ECB, at the BIS Annual General Meeting

    Basel, 27 June 2025

    Cross-border retail payments are the subject of increasing attention. This is for two main reasons.

    First, they play a growing role in the world economy, as international transaction volumes have been increasing at a faster pace than GDP growth. However, despite some improvements in recent years, many payment corridors remain poorly served, which results in slow transaction times and high costs and ultimately hinders economic growth and social cohesion. Moreover, this inefficiency undermines the benefits of globalisation, as the economic gains from lower trade barriers are diverted into rents within cross-border payment markets, rather than benefiting the businesses and households that make use of them.

    Second, new risks are emerging. Geopolitical tensions, for instance, could lead to further fragmentation of global payment systems. Moreover, the expansion of stablecoins could introduce several additional challenges, including currency substitution risks and over-reliance on a limited number of dominant private issuers.

    This is not a situation we can accept passively. We need continuous efforts to enhance cross-border payments, in line with the G20 Roadmap.[1] And central banks, given their role in ensuring the smooth functioning of payment systems, have a major role to play. Significant work has already been undertaken at international level, notably by the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) and the Financial Stability Board (FSB).

    Today, I would like to share our experience with cross-border payments from a regional perspective, emphasising how regional payment infrastructures can be part of the solution. I will then discuss our vision for advancing cross-border payments at the global level.

    The case for enhancing cross-border retail payments

    Let me begin by underscoring the costs and risks of inaction.

    Over the past few decades, the world has witnessed a surge in cross-border payments, driven by the globalisation of trade, capital and migration flows. According to some estimates, the value of cross-border retail payments could grow from close to USD 200 trillion last year to USD 320 trillion by 2032.[2]

    Yet, the average cost of international retail payments remains high. For nearly one-quarter of global payment corridors, costs exceed 3%. And in too many cases, they are slow – one-third of retail cross-border payments took more than one business day to be settled in 2024.[3]

    Worryingly, there are signs that progress is stalling. The FSB’s 2024 progress report revealed no improvements in costs and noted a deterioration in both costs and speed compared with 2023.[4]

    Geopolitical tensions further compound these challenges, as they risk fragmenting global payment systems and undermining the rules-based international order. This could challenge established correspondent banking networks and lead to greater complexity, higher costs and, in a worst-case scenario, the splintering of the global payment system into multiple, non-communicating blocs.

    This raises three pressing issues.

    First, high costs and slow transaction times are hampering economic integration and growth, with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) bearing the brunt. For SMEs operating on tight margins, exorbitant fees discourage them from participating in cross-border trade.

    Second, the world’s most vulnerable groups – such as migrant workers sending remittances home – shoulder a disproportionate share of these costs. In many regions, sending money internationally remains prohibitively expensive. For example, the average costs of remittances to sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia stand at 7.7% and 6.2% respectively.[5] As it stands, the global Sustainable Development Goal target of lowering remittance costs to 3% remains a distant goal. The impact that reducing these fees would have on financial inclusion and well-being cannot be overstated.

    Third, inefficiencies in cross-border payments have created a gap that alternative players, particularly in the crypto-asset space, are eager to fill. However, many of these solutions come with significant risks. Unbacked crypto-assets, for instance, are highly volatile and speculative in nature, creating risks for unsuspecting households and businesses and lending themselves to illicit activities.[6]

    Furthermore, stablecoins come with their own set of challenges, which the BIS described in detail in a special chapter of its Annual Economic Report published this week.[7] Stablecoins carry credit risk, making them susceptible to runs, and pose fragmentation risks due to the multitude of stablecoins being issued. Some of these could end up trading at a discount, undermining the singleness of money.[8] Moreover, because a small number of issuers currently dominate the market, this could also give rise to concentration risks. Lastly, a key concern is the prevalence of US dollar stablecoins, which currently account for 99% of the global stablecoin market.[9] These stablecoins provide an easy way to store value in dollars, considerably increasing the risk of currency substitution in the form of “digital dollarisation”.[10] This phenomenon could have destabilising effects, particularly on emerging markets and less developed economies by impairing the effectiveness of domestic monetary policy. It may also increase the risk of capital flight in response to adverse economic shocks.

    Enhancing cross-border retail payments at the regional and global level

    To address inefficiencies in cross-border payments, we must offer an alternative that connects various parts of the global payments system and delivers tangible benefits in terms of speed and cost. At the same time, this solution must respect the integrity, sovereignty and stability of all countries involved.

    At the ECB, we are pursuing this on two levels – regional and global.

    Regional cross-border payments: the European experience

    At the regional level, Europe serves as a compelling example of what an interconnected payments landscape might look like.

    Of course, this has been facilitated by the creation of a single European market and the establishment of a monetary union. One of the key reasons for creating the euro was to support trade and investment by facilitating cross-border transactions. And the launch of our single currency offered a first solution to pay throughout the euro area – in the form of euro cash.

    The logical next step was to develop European instruments for electronic euro payments. The Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA) emerged from close cooperation between the public and private sector to harmonise electronic euro transactions. As a result, individuals and businesses can make payments across the euro area at very low costs using credit transfers or direct debit.

    The success of SEPA led to its expansion beyond the euro area and even beyond the European Union. Today, customers in 41 European countries can make euro payments quickly, safely and efficiently via credit transfer and direct debit, just as they would for domestic transactions.

    We have also developed the TARGET Instant Payment Settlement (TIPS) service, which enables the settlement of instant payments across the euro area. Instant payments are further supported by a payment scheme – the SEPA Instant Credit Transfer scheme – that provides harmonised rules, standards and protocols. Moreover, EU legislation has made it mandatory for banks to allow their customers to send and receive instant payment at low cost.

    A key feature of TIPS is that it’s a multi-currency platform. Taking advantage of this, Sweden and Denmark are using TIPS to facilitate fast payments in their respective currencies.[11] Norway will do the same as of 2028.[12] Furthermore, we are implementing a cross-currency settlement service that will allow instant payments initiated in one TIPS currency to be settled in another. Initially, this service will support cross-currency payments between the euro area, Sweden and Denmark.[13]

    Within Europe, we are also supporting the Western Balkans in developing a regional fast payment system.[14] As a service provider for TIPS, the Banca d’Italia is collaborating with the central banks of Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo and Montenegro to develop an instant, multi-currency payment system based on TIPS software. North Macedonia may join the initiative at a later stage.[15] The new platform will facilitate instant payments both within each participating country and across borders.

    Going global: interlinking fast payment systems

    This shows the potential for strengthening regional integration in payments. However, let me be clear: regional integration must not come at the expense of global connectivity. It should not be used as a means to sever ties with global payment networks.

    Our approach is that regional and global integration can go hand in hand through the interlinking of fast payment systems across regions and countries. Today, over 100 jurisdictions worldwide have implemented their own fast payment systems.[16] Interlinking these systems has the potential to address inefficiencies and build lasting connections that are rooted in trade openness and balanced relationships between partners.

    This approach offers several advantages. It would reduce costs, increase the speed and transparency of cross-border payments and shorten transaction chains. It would also enable payment service providers to conduct transactions without having to use multiple payment systems or a long chain of correspondent banks. Moreover, it would ensure that the platform for connecting and converting currencies is managed as a public good, thus avoiding closed loops and discriminatory pricing. Accordingly, the G20 Roadmap for Enhancing Cross-border Payments has identified interlinking as a key strategy for enhancing cross-border payments.[17] In this respect, the excellent work the Committee on Payments and Market Infrastructures (CPMI) is carrying out on payee verification could make a significant difference.

    Last October, the ECB’s Governing Council decided to take concrete steps towards interlinking TIPS with other fast payment systems to improve cross-border payments globally.[18]

    We will implement a cross-currency settlement service for the exchange of cross-border payments between TIPS and other fast payment systems worldwide.[19] This will allow us to explore interlinking TIPS with fast payment systems that have a compatible scheme, are interested in being involved and fully comply with the standards set by the Financial Action Task Force for combating money laundering and terrorist financing.

    In addition, we are exploring the possibility of creating bilateral and multilateral links with other fast payment systems.

    One possibility under consideration is connecting TIPS to a multilateral network of instant payment systems through Project Nexus, led by the BIS.[20] By joining Nexus, TIPS could serve as a hub for processing instant cross-border payments to and from the euro area and other countries that use TIPS.[21]

    We are also currently assessing the feasibility of creating a bilateral link between TIPS and India’s Unified Payments Interface[22], which handles the highest volume of instant payment transactions in the world[23].

    Interlinking fast payment systems has the potential to solve the shortcomings related to the messaging leg of cross-border transactions, by facilitating the message that the payer’s bank in country A sends to the payee’s bank in country B about the incoming transfer of funds. This would already go a long way towards improving the efficiency of cross-border payments.

    However, what interlinking does not fully resolve is the settlement leg, through which money moves from the payer’s to the payee’s account. This still requires a bank that has access to both payment systems that are interlinked, or a credit relationship between a bank in country A and a bank in country B. This is particularly challenging, given the increasing retrenchment of the correspondent banking model.

    In this context, we need to collectively exercise our creativity. I do not envisage a solution that could cover all possible corridors and use cases: there may be scope for tokenised forms of money, as well as a revival of the correspondent banking model, especially if we can reduce the associated risks.

    In the realm of sovereign money, jurisdictions could agree to use their respective central bank digital currencies as settlement assets. In this respect, the current draft legislation on the digital euro provides for an approach that respects the sovereignty of non-euro area countries and mitigates potential risks for them. It does so by opening the possibility for residents of a partner country to use the digital euro, subject to an agreement with that country, complemented by an arrangement between the ECB and the respective central bank.[24]

    Appropriate safeguards – such as individual holding limits for users – would ensure that the digital euro is used primarily as a means of payment and does not fuel currency substitution. Furthermore, the digital euro’s design would include multi-currency functionality, similar to that of TIPS. In practice, this means that non-euro area countries could use the digital euro infrastructure to offer their own digital currencies, thereby facilitating transactions across these currencies.

    Conclusion

    Let me conclude.

    We find ourselves at a pivotal moment for cross-border payments. If we want to make decisive progress and increase their efficiency, we need to work together to develop new solutions. We must, however, be aware of the risks that some of the alternatives on offer may pose.

    I would like to thank the BIS – and in particular the CPMI – for the active role they play in this area, not least by bringing us all together today, with representatives from A (Angola) to Z (Zambia). Each of us brings different needs and circumstances to the table. This raises two fundamental questions. What do we have in common? And what principles can guide our collective efforts?

    First, we must harness responsible innovation to solve persistent challenges while mitigating the risks I have noted today. Central banks – by ensuring the safety and integrity of payment systems – play an important role in this regard. And by interlinking fast payment systems and exploring the use of central bank digital currencies, we can address settlement inefficiencies while safeguarding monetary sovereignty and financial stability.

    Second, regional solutions can serve as a foundation for global progress. I have argued that regional payment integration can be an important part of the solution – provided it remains open to, and actively facilitates, interlinking at a global level. We firmly believe that this open, multi-currency interlinking approach can lay the groundwork for cheaper, faster and more transparent cross-border payments – without compromising the integrity, stability or sovereignty of the countries involved. By designing payment systems that are open, interoperable and multi-currency ready, we can ensure that regional initiatives contribute to global integration rather than fragmentation.

    Finally, collaboration is central to our collective success. Forums such as the CPMI community of practice, as well as today’s workshop, provide valuable opportunities for sharing knowledge and experiences. We will continue to find ways to work together to build resilient, inclusive and interconnected payment infrastructures that meet the needs of our people and economies. And we at the ECB remain committed to sharing our expertise and collaborating wherever we can add value.

    Thank you for your attention.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: World Rugby Partners with Samsung TV Plus to Accelerate US and UK Expansion with RugbyPass TV FAST Channel

    Source: Samsung

    London, U.K. – Jun 27, 2025 – Samsung and World Rugby have partnered to launch the RugbyPass TV FAST Channel on Samsung TV Plus, a premium destination for streaming on Samsung devices. Arriving in the U.K. on 25 June, and shortly after in the U.S., this collaboration is the latest development in scaling up the global digital footprint of Rugby Pass as it looks to grow rugby’s audience share in key markets.
     
    The collaboration marks the first time RugbyPass TV content will be available on a FAST service, extending the reach of the leading app and broadcast service to millions of U.S. and U.K. households via Samsung TV Plus.
     
    The landmark RugbyPass TV FAST Channel offers a curated mix of live international action, compelling feature programming, and classic matches – all available for millions of households. The launch represents a major step forward in World Rugby’s commitment to delivering high-quality, accessible rugby content to broader and more diverse audiences across two of its key growth markets, laying the groundwork for a transformational decade of rugby leading into the Men’s and Women’s Rugby World Cups in 2031 and 2033.
     
    The RugbyPass TV FAST channel will play a significant role in Samsung’s continued commitment to expand the variety of premium sports content on Samsung TV Plus, making even more sports content free to access for broader audiences. For World Rugby, the collaboration will make the sport more discoverable to casual viewers and avid fans alike, expanding the sport’s addressable share of attention. It also reflects a growing appetite among sports fans for premium content without the paywall – an opportunity World Rugby is seizing to build fandom at scale.
     
    As part of the collaboration, Samsung TV Plus will showcase RugbyPass TV’s winning blend of live content, including rugby sevens, original programming documentaries and series, classic matches and in-depth analysis, ensuring something for all sports fans.
     
    World Rugby Chief Executive Alan Gilpin said: “With the U.S. and U.K. representing two of rugby’s most important and promising markets, this exciting collaboration with Samsung TV Plus is a major milestone in our journey to grow the game globally. Through RugbyPass TV FAST, we’re bringing the excitement, diversity, and global appeal of the game to more fans, in more homes, than ever before.”
     
    Head of Samsung TV Plus EMEA Gus Grimaldi added: “RugbyPass TV is a global leader in rugby content, and we’re thrilled to bring their first-ever FAST channel to Samsung TV Plus users in the UK. This launch not only enhances our sports offering but introduces a beloved sport to new fans by removing the paywall.”
     
    With women’s rugby at the forefront of World Rugby’s content and growth strategy, the FAST channel launch reinforces a forward-looking vision that embraces innovation, inclusion, and long-term legacy — in both established and emerging rugby nations.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Security: DHS Awards $94 Million in Grants to Help Protect 512 Jewish Faith-Based Organizations from Targeted Violence and Terrorism

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    Following the terror attack in Boulder, CO and the murder of two Israeli Embassy staffers, DHS is working to counter the concern rise in antisemitic violence and terrorism

    WASHINGTON – Today, the Department of Homeland Security announced it is awarding $94,416,838 to over 512 Jewish faith-based organizations across the United States through its National Security Supplemental (NSGP-NSS).

    This money, part of the Nonprofit Security Grant Program, will be used to help these organizations harden their defenses against attacks. This allocation comes after a terrorist attacked demonstrators with a flamethrower and Molotov cocktails at an event in support of hostages in Gaza, and after two Israeli Embassy staffers were murdered in Washington, DC, by a terrorist who shouted, “Free Palestine.” In 2024, the ADL said it recorded a record high of 9,354 antisemitic incidents in the U.S., marking a 344% increase over the past five years.  

    “DHS is working to put a stop to the deeply disturbing rise in antisemitic attacks across the United States,” said DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “That this money is necessary at all is tragic. Antisemitic violence has no place in this country. However, under President Trump and Secretary Noem’s leadership, we are going to do everything in our power to make sure that Jewish people in the United States can live free of the threat of violence and terrorism.”

    The program, operated through FEMA, will help protect Jewish faith-based institutions from further attacks, and was advocated for by over 40 plus Jewish organizations. The funding was appropriated by Congress in response to a surge in antisemitic threats linked to the Israel Hamas war. All faith-based institutions were eligible to apply for grant funding to help defend themselves from threats including houses of worship, educational facilities, medical facilities, community centers and other faith-based institutions. More grant disbursements will follow from the NSGP.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UN Chief on the Middle East and Gaza – Security Council Media Stakeout | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (video statements)

    António Guterres, UN Secretary-General on the situation in the Middle East and Gaza – Security Council Media Stakeout.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LstcV5edPls

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Alexey Overchuk met with First Deputy Prime Minister of Mongolia Nyam-Osoryn Uchral

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    On the sidelines of the meeting of the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council in Minsk, Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk held a meeting with First Deputy Prime Minister of Mongolia Nyam-Osoryn Uchral, during which the parties discussed key issues of bilateral and multilateral trade and economic cooperation.

    Alexey Overchuk congratulated Nyam-Osoryn Uchral on his appointment to the high post and expressed confidence that his professional experience will contribute to further strengthening of friendly ties between Russia and Mongolia.

    Both sides stressed the importance of prompt ratification of the temporary free trade agreement between the Eurasian Economic Union and Mongolia, signed in Minsk at a meeting of the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council. The parties discussed in detail a range of issues, the solution of which will create conditions for the effective implementation of the signed agreement.

    The Deputy Prime Minister noted that bilateral cooperation is also developing dynamically. Mongolia is an important trading partner of Russia. According to the results of 2024, bilateral trade turnover increased by 17.8% to $2.59 billion. In January-April 2025, mutual trade increased by 5.9% and amounted to $861.2 million. The agreement will bring trade and economic relations between Russia and Mongolia to a qualitatively new level and will contribute to improving the trade balance between the EAEU member states and Mongolia.

    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: China urges relevant party to avoid inciting or using forces advocating for ‘Taiwan independence’ – Chinese Foreign Ministry

    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

    BEIJING, June 27 (Xinhua) — China urges the relevant party to avoid inciting or using “Taiwan independence” forces, Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said Friday.

    Guo Jiakun made the remarks at a regular press conference in response to a Czech media report that Chinese embassy officials closely followed the car of Taiwanese politician Xiao Meiqin while she was in Prague last year.

    By allowing the visit of Xiao Meiqin, who is a die-hard supporter of “Taiwan independence”, the Czech Republic has seriously violated the one-China principle and political commitments to China, grossly interfering in its internal affairs. The Chinese side has expressed serious dissatisfaction and resolute protest over this, Guo Jiakun added.

    “Let me emphasize that Chinese diplomats always abide by the laws and regulations of the host country,” Guo Jiakun said, noting that China urges the relevant side to avoid instigating or taking advantage of “Taiwan independence” forces, making unnecessary scandals and malicious noise, and not disrupting or undermining interstate relations.

    No matter how Taiwan’s Democratic Progressive Party administration seeks “independence” by securing foreign support in any form, it cannot hide its evil intentions and will certainly fail in its attempts, a Chinese diplomat said. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Monument to Xian Xinghai reopened in Almaty

    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

    ALMATY, June 27 (Xinhua) — A grand ceremony was held in Almaty on Friday to reopen the Xian Xinghai monument and its adjacent square after restoration.

    In his welcoming speech, Zhanibek Abdrashov, head of the Kazakh Foreign Ministry’s office in Almaty, noted the strong friendship between Xian Xinghai and Kazakh composer Bakhytzhan Baikadamov. “The monument we are unveiling today is not just a symbol of the memory of the great composer. It is a symbol of friendship, mutual understanding and cultural unity. It is a reminder of how, in difficult times, music can unite hearts, overcome borders and become the voice of humanity,” said Zh. Abdrashov.

    Deputy Head of the Almaty City Culture Department Arman Khalbekov said in his speech that the event is of great importance for the cultural life of Kazakhstan and China. “Friendly relations between Kazakhstan and China have deep historical roots… These historical ties are being revived today. This friendship continues to develop not only in the economy and partnership, but also in cultural ties,” he noted.

    Gulaim Zhumabekova, director of the State Museum of Arts of Kazakhstan, said that this monument is not just a sculptural object, but also a symbol of historical memory, gratitude and cultural ties between the two nations. “Today we are not just opening a renovated monument — we are once again emphasizing the importance of cultural ties between Kazakhstan and China,” said G. Zhumabekova.

    In her ceremonial speech, Chinese Consul General in Almaty Jiang Wei called for the preservation and strengthening of friendly ties between the two countries. “Let us together preserve and continue the friendship between China and Kazakhstan, embodied in the music of Xian Xinghai and Baikadamov, strengthen mutual understanding and closeness between the peoples of the two countries, and jointly build an even closer community of shared destiny between China and Kazakhstan,” she concluded.

    Following the unveiling ceremony of the monument, a retrospective screening of the film “Composer,” released in 2019, was held. It is the first Chinese-Kazakh joint film that won the prestigious 18th Huabiao Film Award and other awards. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Mike Levin Opposes Divisive Resolution on Los Angeles Protests

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Levin (CA-49)

    June 27, 2025

    Washington, D.C.– Today, Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49) released the following statement on his vote in opposition to H.Res. 516:

    “I opposed Rep. Young Kim’s intentionally divisive resolution this morning. Earlier this month, our state and local law enforcement officers in Los Angeles worked admirably to provide a safe environment so Americans could exercise their First Amendment right to protest. I wholeheartedly condemn those who took advantage of the situation to commit violent acts, and I stand with our state and local law enforcement.

    “The resolution we voted on today uses inflammatory language designed to divide us instead of bringing people together. We should be focused on bipartisan solutions that strengthen public safety and protect civil rights, not on partisan exercises that inflame tensions and pit communities against each other.”

    ##

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Mike Levin Opposes Divisive Resolution on Los Angeles Protests

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Levin (CA-49)

    June 27, 2025

    Washington, D.C.– Today, Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49) released the following statement on his vote in opposition to H.Res. 516:

    “I opposed Rep. Young Kim’s intentionally divisive resolution this morning. Earlier this month, our state and local law enforcement officers in Los Angeles worked admirably to provide a safe environment so Americans could exercise their First Amendment right to protest. I wholeheartedly condemn those who took advantage of the situation to commit violent acts, and I stand with our state and local law enforcement.

    “The resolution we voted on today uses inflammatory language designed to divide us instead of bringing people together. We should be focused on bipartisan solutions that strengthen public safety and protect civil rights, not on partisan exercises that inflame tensions and pit communities against each other.”

    ##

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: State Energy Data System: Complete set of state-level estimates through 2023

    Source: US Energy Information Administration

    Schedule of new releases of energy consumption, prices, expenditures, indicators, and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from energy consumption estimates by source. See the 2023 version of this page.

    + EXPAND ALL

    Petroleum     
    Aviation gasoline 2024 Release date
    Consumption, prices, expenditures, and CO2 emissions from energy consumption Planned 11/07/2025
    Jet fuel 2024 Release date
    Consumption, prices, expenditures, and CO2 emissions from energy consumption Planned 11/07/2025
    Kerosene 2024 Release date
    Consumption Planned 01/09/2026
    Prices and expenditures Planned 01/09/2026
    CO2 emissions from energy consumption Planned 01/09/2026
    Residual fuel oil 2024 Release date
    Consumption Planned 01/09/2026
    Prices and expenditures Planned 01/09/2026
    CO2 emissions from energy consumption Planned 01/09/2026
    Hydrocarbon gas liquids 2024 Release date
    Consumption Planned 02/20/2026
    Prices and expenditures Planned 02/20/2026
    CO2 emissions from energy consumption Planned 02/20/2026
    Distillate fuel oil 2024 Release date
    Consumption Planned 03/06/2026
    Prices and expenditures Planned 03/06/2026
    CO2 emissions from energy consumption Planned 03/06/2026
    Motor gasoline 2024 Release date
    Consumption Planned 03/20/2026
    Prices and expenditures Planned 03/20/2026
    CO2 emissions from energy consumption Planned 03/20/2026
    Asphalt and road oil 2024 Release date
    Consumption, prices, expenditures, and CO2 emissions from energy consumption Planned 04/03/2026
    Lubricants 2024 Release date
    Consumption Planned 04/03/2026
    Prices and expenditures Planned 04/03/2026
    CO2 emissions from energy consumption Planned 04/03/2026
    Petroleum coke 2024 Release date
    Consumption Planned 04/17/2026
    Prices and expenditures Planned 04/17/2026
    CO2 emissions from energy consumption Planned 04/17/2026
    Other petroleum products (including petrochemical feedstocks) 2024 Release date
    Consumption, prices, expenditures, and CO2 emissions from energy consumption Planned 04/17/2026
    Total petroleum 2024 Release date
    Consumption Planned 04/17/2026
    Prices and expenditures Planned 04/17/2026
    CO2 emissions from energy consumption Planned 04/17/2026
    Nuclear energy    
      2024 Release date
    Consumption, prices, and expenditures Planned 11/21/2025
    Electricity    
      2024 Release date
    Consumption Planned 12/12/2025
    Prices and expenditures Planned 12/12/2025
    Natural gas     
      2024 Release date
    Consumption Planned 02/06/2026
    Prices and expenditures Planned 02/06/2026
    CO2 emissions from energy consumption Planned 02/06/2026
    Coal    
      2024 Release date
    Consumption Planned 01/23/2026
    Prices and expenditures Planned 01/23/2026
    CO2 emissions from energy consumption Planned 01/23/2026
    Renewable energy    
    Noncombustible renewable energy 2024 Release date
    Geothermal energy consumption Planned 12/19/2025
    Hydroelectric power consumption Planned 12/19/2025
    Solar energy consumption Planned 12/19/2025
    Wind energy consumption Planned 12/19/2025
    Biodiesel 2024 Release date
    Consumption Planned 03/06/2026
    Renewable diesel 2024 Release date
    Consumption Planned 03/06/2026
    Fuel ethanol 2024 Release date
    Consumption Planned 03/20/2026
    Wood and biomass waste 2024 Release date
    Consumption Planned 05/01/2026
    Prices and expenditures Planned 05/01/2026
    Total renewable energy 2024 Release date
    Consumption Planned 05/01/2026
    Total energy    
      2024 Release date
    Consumption Planned 05/22/2026
    Prices and expenditures Planned 05/22/2026
    CO2 emissions from energy consumption Planned 05/22/2026
    Energy indicators    
      2024 Release date
    Population, GDP, and degree days Planned 11/07/2025
    Electric net summer capacity Planned 12/12/2025
    Capacity factors and usage factors Planned 12/12/2025
    Electric light-duty vehicles Planned 12/12/2025
    Electric vehicle charging infrastructure Planned 12/12/2025
    Electric vehicle electricity consumption (experimental)(preliminary) Planned 12/12/2025
    Data files    
    Data files are updated every time a new set of SEDS estimates is released.
    Consumption 1960-2024 Release date
    All consumption estimates              
    in physical units Planned 11/07/2025
    in Btu Planned 11/07/2025
    Thermal conversion factors Planned 11/07/2025
    Prices and expenditures 1970-2024 Release date
    All price and expenditure estimates            
    Prices Planned 11/07/2025
    Expenditures Planned 11/07/2025
    Adjusted consumption for expenditure calculations Planned 11/07/2025
    Energy indicators 1960-2024 Release date
    All energy indicator estimates Planned 11/07/2025
    Carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from energy consumption 1960-2024 Release date
    All CO2 emissions estimates Planned 11/07/2025
    Consolidated data file (in long format with over 2.3 million records) 1960-2024 Release date
    Consumption, price, expenditure, production, indicators, and CO2 emissions estimates Planned 11/07/2025

    For additional information see:

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Boston Man Sentenced to More Than Five Years in Prison for Fentanyl Distribution

    Source: US FBI

    BOSTON – A Boston man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for a drug distribution offense involving fentanyl. The defendant is currently awaiting trial on murder charges in Massachusetts state court.

    Csean Skerritt, a/k/a “Shizz Grimmy,” a/k/a “Black,” 36, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton to 68 months federal prison, to be followed by four years of supervised release. In March 2025, Skerritt pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of 40 grams or more of fentanyl. In March 2025, Skerritt was indicted by a federal grand jury.

    As part of a drug trafficking investigation, on Feb. 1, 2023, Skerritt agreed to sell 50 grams of fentanyl to an individual in exchange for $1,500. Following a series of communications, Skerritt met the individual at a pre-arranged location. There, Skerritt entered the individual’s car and provided approximately 52.3 grams of fentanyl in exchange for the agreed-upon amount.

    On March 9, 2023, Skerritt was indicted for murder in the Massachusetts Superior Court and is awaiting trial.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox; and Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Hayden made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney John T. Dawley of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit prosecuted the case.

    This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Boston Man Sentenced to More Than Five Years in Prison for Fentanyl Distribution

    Source: US FBI

    BOSTON – A Boston man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for a drug distribution offense involving fentanyl. The defendant is currently awaiting trial on murder charges in Massachusetts state court.

    Csean Skerritt, a/k/a “Shizz Grimmy,” a/k/a “Black,” 36, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton to 68 months federal prison, to be followed by four years of supervised release. In March 2025, Skerritt pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of 40 grams or more of fentanyl. In March 2025, Skerritt was indicted by a federal grand jury.

    As part of a drug trafficking investigation, on Feb. 1, 2023, Skerritt agreed to sell 50 grams of fentanyl to an individual in exchange for $1,500. Following a series of communications, Skerritt met the individual at a pre-arranged location. There, Skerritt entered the individual’s car and provided approximately 52.3 grams of fentanyl in exchange for the agreed-upon amount.

    On March 9, 2023, Skerritt was indicted for murder in the Massachusetts Superior Court and is awaiting trial.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox; and Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Hayden made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney John T. Dawley of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit prosecuted the case.

    This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Armed Robber Caught by Joint Law Enforcement Effort After Escaping Custody

    Source: US FBI

    DETROIT — Markiese King, 31, of Detroit, Michigan was charged this week, with a six-count indictment alleging three counts of Interference with Commerce by Robbery, two counts of Use and Carry of a Firearm in Relation to a Crime of Violence, and one count of Prisoner Escape, United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon Jr. announced today.

    According to the indictment, King is alleged to have robbed a Dollar General store in the city of Detroit on May 20, 2025.  After entering the store, King allegedly brandished a firearm and demanded money from the store’s employees.

    The indictment also alleges that on May 23, 2025, King robbed an Advance Auto Parts in the city of Warren, Michigan. King threatened the store’s employees and demanded money.

    Between the second and third robberies, King allegedly left the Cherry Health Residential Reentry Center, where he was in custody for a prior conviction, without permission. After escaping, on May 28, 2025, King allegedly robbed an AutoZone in Highland Park, Michigan again brandishing a pistol at employees.

    The Detroit Police Department, Warren Police Department, Highland Park Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Macomb County Gang and Violent Crime Task Force, and Detroit Violent Crime Task Force, as well as the U.S. Marshal’s Service worked together to identify and locate King leading to his swift arrest on May 30, 2025. King has been in custody since that arrest.

    An indictment is only a formal charging document and is not evidence of guilt.  A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Micah Wallace. 
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Conehatta Man Pleads Guilty to Sexual Abuse of a Minor

    Source: US FBI

    Jackson, MS – On June 17, 2025, a Newton County man pleaded guilty to sexually abusing a minor under the age of sixteen.

    According to court documents, in February of 2024, Javeon Deshaun Jefferson, 25, engaged in the sexual abuse of a minor in the Conehatta Community of the Choctaw Indian Reservation.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Patrick A. Lemon of the Southern District of Mississippi, made the announcement.  The Choctaw Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case.

    Jefferson is scheduled to be sentenced on October 28, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of fifteen years in prison. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin J. Payne and Brian K. Burns prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Conehatta Man Pleads Guilty to Sexual Abuse of a Minor

    Source: US FBI

    Jackson, MS – On June 17, 2025, a Newton County man pleaded guilty to sexually abusing a minor under the age of sixteen.

    According to court documents, in February of 2024, Javeon Deshaun Jefferson, 25, engaged in the sexual abuse of a minor in the Conehatta Community of the Choctaw Indian Reservation.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Patrick A. Lemon of the Southern District of Mississippi, made the announcement.  The Choctaw Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case.

    Jefferson is scheduled to be sentenced on October 28, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of fifteen years in prison. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin J. Payne and Brian K. Burns prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Corinth Man Sentenced in Armed Carjacking Case

    Source: US FBI

    Aberdeen, MS – A Corinth man was sentenced today to 12 years in prison for armed carjacking.

    According to court documents, Talinn Loveless, 24, previously pled guilty to taking a motor vehicle from the presence of another through force, violence, and intimidation, as well as brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. Brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence carries a mandatory seven years imprisonment consecutive to any sentence imposed for any other count of conviction.

    Senior U.S. District Judge Glen H. Davidson sentenced Loveless to a total term of imprisonment of 144 months, which included 60 months for carjacking and an additional 84 months for brandishing a firearm during the commission of the offense. Upon release from prison, Loveless will be on supervision for a period of three years. Loveless was also ordered to pay $5,000.00 in restitution to the victim. He was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal following sentencing.

    “Violent criminals belong in jail, and the sentence imposed today by Judge Davidson has ensured accountability for the actions of this defendant,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner.  “The Corinth Police Department and the FBI conducted an outstanding investigation that ensured serious consequences for the inherently dangerous crime of armed carjacking.”

    “The Corinth Police Department would like to thank the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their hard work and assistance in this matter,” said Corinth Police Chief Landon Tucker. “This defendant was rightfully brought to justice. We will continue to prioritize the safety of our community and ensure that those who threaten public safety are held responsible.”

    “Depriving innocent victims of their hard-earned property will not be tolerated,” Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Jackson Field Office Robert Eikhoff. “Mr. Loveless’ conviction and sentencing sends a clear message that the FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue to work together to pursue violent offenders relentlessly and work tirelessly to restore safety and justice to our neighborhoods.”

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Corinth Police Department, and the Mississippi Highway Patrol.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert J. Mims prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko: Joint projects of Russia and Belarus will provide more opportunities for self-realization of youth

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    The forum participants were greeted by the Presidents of Russia and Belarus, Vladimir Putin and Alexander Lukashenko. Thus, President Vladimir Putin thanked the participants for their tangible contribution to strengthening the Russian-Belarusian strategic partnership, the Union State and good-neighborly relations between citizens of both countries.

    Also speaking at the plenary session were the Chairperson of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation Valentina Matviyenko and the Chairperson of the Council of the Republic of the National Assembly of the Republic of Belarus Natalia Kochanova.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko thanked them for their great contribution to the formation of unified approaches to the youth agenda of the two countries.

    He also stated the importance of joint efforts between Russia and Belarus to preserve historical memory and patriotic education of youth.

    “Our leaders – Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin and Alexander Grigoryevich Lukashenko – always emphasize the importance of developing humanitarian ties between our fraternal peoples. This year we celebrate the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War. Therefore, joint efforts to combat the glorification of Nazism, the falsification of history and the patriotic education of our youth are of particular importance,” the Deputy Prime Minister emphasized.

    This year marks 30 years since the conclusion of the Agreement on Cooperation in the Sphere of Youth Policy between Russia and Belarus. During the anniversary year, large-scale events were organized in Russia and Belarus: the Victory Parade, the Immortal Regiment and Belarus Remembers campaigns, and the Memory Train project was implemented.

    “For the coming year, we see two important tasks assigned by our heads of state: to develop a strategy for the youth policy of the Union State, to update the Agreement on Cooperation in the Sphere of Youth Policy. This will further strengthen our fraternal ties and will allow us to raise cooperation to a qualitatively new level, as well as provide additional opportunities for the self-realization of the youth of Russia and Belarus,” noted Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    In December last year, a “road map” of joint events for the coming years was approved in Moscow. It included more than 60 different initiatives. The first significant event was the gathering of student brigades of the Union State in the youth capital of Russia – Perm.

    Within the framework of international youth cooperation, a number of joint projects are being implemented to familiarize young people with other countries. For example, a program of familiarization trips to Russia is being implemented – “New Generation”. Last year, 570 delegates from CIS countries took part in them, including 96 citizens of the Republic of Belarus.

    The legacy of the World Youth Festival (WYF), which was held in Russia last year with the support of President Vladimir Putin, is also preserved and expanded. The WYF’s flagship project has become international friendship clubs, of which there are 90 in all 89 regions of the Russian Federation. They help children from all over the world maintain contacts after the festival.

    The main event of this year in the field of international youth cooperation will be the gathering of the World Youth Festival in Nizhny Novgorod, which will bring together 2 thousand participants from 130 countries, including the Republic of Belarus.

    The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that the effectiveness of efforts depends on the quality of implementation of specific programs and projects. It is necessary to constantly analyze the results of the events held, identify shortcomings and develop recommendations for improving existing interaction mechanisms. This is the only way to guarantee the achievement of the goals set by the presidents and ensure the further development of youth cooperation within the Union State.

    Also, within the framework of the XII Forum of Regions of Russia and Belarus, Dmitry Chernyshenko and Governor of the Nizhny Novgorod Region Gleb Nikitin took part in a meeting with heads of state authorities of the regions of Russia and Belarus chaired by the Chairperson of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation Valentina Matvienko and the Chairperson of the Council of the Republic of the National Assembly of the Republic of Belarus Natalia Kochanova. In addition, they assessed the exposition of the forum exhibition as part of the delegation. Among the developments presented are implants for surgery, neurosurgery, traumatology, an industrial robot, lasers and much more.

    During the tour of the exhibition, Dmitry Chernyshenko and Gleb Nikitin also examined a three-section tram and an electric bus with a single name “MiNiN”. This is the product of the joint Russian-Belarusian enterprise “Nizhekotrans”, located in the city of Vorsma in the Nizhny Novgorod region. Over the years, more than 90 “MiNiN” trams and more than 60 electric buses have been assembled at the site. Such equipment is already running in Nizhny Novgorod, and a batch of trams was also delivered to Krasnodar. The plans include expanding the geography of deliveries and producing new types of public transport.

    The XII Forum of Regions of Russia and Belarus “Youth of Belarus and Russia – Heirs of the Great Victory and the Future of the Union State” is taking place in Nizhny Novgorod on June 26-27. As part of the forum, a large package of agreements between the two countries is planned to be signed.

    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: Procedure for drawing up forms submitted upon request in relation to life insurance contracts related to accounting groups 18-21 in accordance with the requirements for the financial stability and solvency of insurers

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Central Bank of Russia (2) –

    The XBRL taxonomy of the Bank of Russia for the presentation of information on requests (version 6.1.0.6) is intended for use by insurers for the purpose of sending information to the Bank of Russia on interperiod reporting dates, i.e. reporting dates other than 31.01, 28.02, 31.03, 30.04, 31.05, 30.06, 31.07, 31.08, 30.09, 31.10, 30.11, 31.12, starting from the reporting date of 01.09.2025, according to reporting form 0420150 “General information about the insurer” (section 1 and section 7), reporting form 0420154 “Report on the assets and liabilities of the insurer” (sections 1-10) and reporting form 0420156 “Report on the solvency of the insurance company” organizations” (all sections).

    The procedure for compiling and submitting information on the above-mentioned reporting forms is established by Bank of Russia Instruction No. 6805-U dated 15.07.2024 “On the forms, deadlines and procedure for compiling and submitting reports of insurers to the Bank of Russia, on the procedure for insurers to notify the Bank of Russia of information on persons entrusted with identifying, simplifying identification, updating information on clients, client representatives, beneficiaries and beneficial owners, on the procedure for insurers to notify the Bank of Russia of information on the publication of the annual accounting (financial) statements of the insurer, as well as on the procedure and deadlines for insurers to submit information and documents to the Bank of Russia regarding their branches, representative offices and other separate divisions.”

    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 Security: Conditions imposed as part of protest policing plan

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    The Met has released the details of its policing plan ahead of another busy weekend in London.

    Officers will be deployed across the city to respond to incidents and keep the public safe. In particular, there will be a significant police presence in the Westminster area on Saturday ahead of two planned protests, the details of which are outlined below.

    We have used our powers under the Public Order Act to impose conditions on a number of events in order to prevent serious disruption to the life of the wider community.

    Conditions have been imposed on a protest organised by the International Jewish Anti-Zionist Network (IJAN) due to take place on Friday evening.

    For many months since October 2023, the protest took place on a weekly basis in Swiss Cottage. Recognising the impact of cumulative protest at a time when fear and concern among many in London’s Jewish communities was heightened, a decision was taken to review the extent to which the weekly protests were causing serious disruption.

    As a result of that review, conditions were imposed preventing anyone involved in the IJAN protest assembling in the area shown on the map below. Those conditions are in force this evening (Friday 27 June).

    Conditions have also been imposed on a protest organised under the banner ‘For the Children’ that is due to take place on Saturday afternoon.

    Anyone participating in the protest must remain in the shaded area on the map below until the procession commences.

    Anyone participating in the ‘For the Children’ procession must remain on the approved route shown on the map below which goes from Russell Square to Whitehall, via Southampton Row, Kingsway and the Strand.

    Anyone participating in the assembly that follows the ‘For the Children’ procession must remain in the shaded area shown on the map below.

    The stage for the assembly must be positioned in the space shown in blue.

    The assembly must conclude by 17:30hrs.

    A counter protest, organised by Stand Up To Racism, will take place at the south end of Whitehall, in Parliament Street.

    Anyone participating in the Stand Up To Racism protest must remain in the shaded area on the map below.

    The stage must be positioned in the space marked in dark blue.

    The assembly must conclude by 15;00hrs.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Conditions imposed as part of protest policing plan

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    The Met has released the details of its policing plan ahead of another busy weekend in London.

    Officers will be deployed across the city to respond to incidents and keep the public safe. In particular, there will be a significant police presence in the Westminster area on Saturday ahead of two planned protests, the details of which are outlined below.

    We have used our powers under the Public Order Act to impose conditions on a number of events in order to prevent serious disruption to the life of the wider community.

    Conditions have been imposed on a protest organised by the International Jewish Anti-Zionist Network (IJAN) due to take place on Friday evening.

    For many months since October 2023, the protest took place on a weekly basis in Swiss Cottage. Recognising the impact of cumulative protest at a time when fear and concern among many in London’s Jewish communities was heightened, a decision was taken to review the extent to which the weekly protests were causing serious disruption.

    As a result of that review, conditions were imposed preventing anyone involved in the IJAN protest assembling in the area shown on the map below. Those conditions are in force this evening (Friday 27 June).

    Conditions have also been imposed on a protest organised under the banner ‘For the Children’ that is due to take place on Saturday afternoon.

    Anyone participating in the protest must remain in the shaded area on the map below until the procession commences.

    Anyone participating in the ‘For the Children’ procession must remain on the approved route shown on the map below which goes from Russell Square to Whitehall, via Southampton Row, Kingsway and the Strand.

    Anyone participating in the assembly that follows the ‘For the Children’ procession must remain in the shaded area shown on the map below.

    The stage for the assembly must be positioned in the space shown in blue.

    The assembly must conclude by 17:30hrs.

    A counter protest, organised by Stand Up To Racism, will take place at the south end of Whitehall, in Parliament Street.

    Anyone participating in the Stand Up To Racism protest must remain in the shaded area on the map below.

    The stage must be positioned in the space marked in dark blue.

    The assembly must conclude by 15;00hrs.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Conditions imposed as part of protest policing plan

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    The Met has released the details of its policing plan ahead of another busy weekend in London.

    Officers will be deployed across the city to respond to incidents and keep the public safe. In particular, there will be a significant police presence in the Westminster area on Saturday ahead of two planned protests, the details of which are outlined below.

    We have used our powers under the Public Order Act to impose conditions on a number of events in order to prevent serious disruption to the life of the wider community.

    Conditions have been imposed on a protest organised by the International Jewish Anti-Zionist Network (IJAN) due to take place on Friday evening.

    For many months since October 2023, the protest took place on a weekly basis in Swiss Cottage. Recognising the impact of cumulative protest at a time when fear and concern among many in London’s Jewish communities was heightened, a decision was taken to review the extent to which the weekly protests were causing serious disruption.

    As a result of that review, conditions were imposed preventing anyone involved in the IJAN protest assembling in the area shown on the map below. Those conditions are in force this evening (Friday 27 June).

    Conditions have also been imposed on a protest organised under the banner ‘For the Children’ that is due to take place on Saturday afternoon.

    Anyone participating in the protest must remain in the shaded area on the map below until the procession commences.

    Anyone participating in the ‘For the Children’ procession must remain on the approved route shown on the map below which goes from Russell Square to Whitehall, via Southampton Row, Kingsway and the Strand.

    Anyone participating in the assembly that follows the ‘For the Children’ procession must remain in the shaded area shown on the map below.

    The stage for the assembly must be positioned in the space shown in blue.

    The assembly must conclude by 17:30hrs.

    A counter protest, organised by Stand Up To Racism, will take place at the south end of Whitehall, in Parliament Street.

    Anyone participating in the Stand Up To Racism protest must remain in the shaded area on the map below.

    The stage must be positioned in the space marked in dark blue.

    The assembly must conclude by 15;00hrs.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Russia produces hundreds of thousands of fiber-optic drones every month.

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    As part of a working visit to the Novgorod Region, First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov, together with Acting Governor of the Region Alexander Dronov, familiarized himself with the activities of industrial enterprises in the region.

    “Our industry demonstrates sustainable growth from year to year. Thank you and the Federal Ministry of Industry and Trade for your support, all our requests find a response from your colleagues,” stressed Acting Governor of the Novgorod Region Alexander Dronov.

    The First Deputy Prime Minister visited one of the production sites of the fiber-optic drones “Prince Vandal Novgorodsky”. The drone, developed in Novgorod land, was first used in the SVO in August 2024 in the Kursk direction and is currently the most effective fpv drone in the world in terms of cost/effectiveness. During its use in the SVO zone, the KVN drone destroyed enemy equipment worth more than $2 billion. The production of fiber-optic drones in Russia is growing, and today domestic enterprises can produce hundreds of thousands of such drones per month, fully satisfying any needs of the Armed Forces.

    During a visit to JSC Special Design and Technology Bureau for Relay Technology, part of the Ruselectronics holding company of the Rostec state corporation, the First Deputy Prime Minister was presented with innovative serial products of the enterprise, as well as promising projects for the creation of modern domestic electronic components based on materials and components manufactured in Russia.

    Among the new products of SKTB RT is a line of microwave modules. The devices, which will replace American, German and French analogues, are capable of withstanding multiple impacts with acceleration up to 50g and operating at temperatures from -60 to 85 degrees Celsius. It is important to note that the use of a modern domestic electronic component base reduces the price of new microwave modules by 40-55% compared to foreign analogues.

    Another enterprise included in the working trip was the branch of the scientific and production corporation “Precision Instrument-Making Systems” in Veliky Novgorod, which is involved in the development and production of electronic modules and units for systems for measuring the parameters of space objects’ movement, hardware and software systems for providing the GLONASS global navigation system, as well as inter-satellite laser systems for exchanging broadband information.

    The First Deputy Prime Minister, in particular, was shown other products of the enterprise: serial production of microprocessor knee modules “Active-2” for people with lower limb amputations has been launched here.

    Denis Manturov visited the site of the innovative scientific and technological center “Intelligent Electronics – Valdai”, created on the instructions of President Vladimir Putin in 2021. The territory of the INTC houses the advanced engineering school of Novgorod University, the programming school from Sber “School 21”, as well as about 60 residents of the center, including companies from the fields of radio electronics, control system software, and the industrial Internet of things.

    As part of the construction of the new stage of the ISTC, which is planned to be completed in 2026, a new laboratory building for semiconductor materials science will be created. Research and development of high-performance heterostructures for the modern electronics industry based on semiconductor materials will be organized there, as well as a full cycle of production of microassemblies and microcircuits – from processing silicon substrates to casing and packaging finished products.

    “Novgorod enterprises are involved in the production of products for the implementation of special military operation tasks. As part of the diversification of production, these same enterprises are actively developing the production of civilian products, and the university where we are today works in close cooperation with them,” Denis Manturov noted, summing up the results of the working trip.

    The First Deputy Prime Minister also instructed the Ministry of Industry and Trade to study the possibility of recapitalizing the regional industrial development fund of the Novgorod region to support projects for the production of high-tech products.

    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 United Nations: Strong Immunization Programmes ‘Foundation of Resilient Societies, Economies’, Says Secretary-General, in Remarks to Vaccine Alliance Pledging Summit

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    Following is the text of UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ video message to the Gavi High-level Pledging Summit, in Brussels today:

    Excellencies, distinguished guests, I thank the European Union, the Gates Foundation and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, for convening this crucial summit.

    Over the past 50 years, vaccines have saved over 150 million lives.  Every dollar invested yields $54 in benefits.

    Gavi and its partners are the backbone of this success. But, the work is far from done.

    Protecting 500 million more children by 2030 requires an urgent investment of at least $9 billion.

    Strong immunization programmes are our front-line defence against infectious diseases — and a foundation of resilient societies and economies.

    At a time when vaccine hesitancy and misinformation are spreading like wildfire, this investment is more crucial than ever. Especially as other support is being rolled back.

    Today, I urge leaders across all sectors to act with generosity and resolve.  Let’s invest in immunization for the health and prosperity of all.  Thank you.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Commemorating Anniversary of Charter, Secretary-General Stresses ‘We Cannot and Must Not Normalize Violations of Its Most Basic Principles’

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    Following are UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ remarks to the commemorative plenary meeting of the General Assembly to observe the eightieth anniversary of the signing of the Charter of the United Nations, in New York today:

    Eighty years ago, from the ashes of war, the world planted a seed of hope.  One Charter, one vision, one promise:  that peace is possible when humanity stands together.

    The UN Charter is a declaration of hope — and the foundation of international cooperation for a better world.  And from day one, the United Nations has been a force of construction in a world often marked by destruction.

    A meeting ground where the fiercest rivals can come together to solve global problems.  An institution where the smallest are represented alongside the most powerful. A platform where voices of people everywhere can be heard.  A place grounded in the principles and letter of the Charter and other rules of international law.  And an engine of progress for human rights, sustainable development and humanitarian action.

    The Charter has given us the tools to change destinies, save lives and deliver hope to the most desperate corners of the world.  And we can draw a direct line from the creation of the United Nations and the prevention of a third world war.

    Upholding the purposes and principles of the Charter is a never-ending mission.  Over the decades, we have celebrated the end of wars — while witnessing the start of others.

    We have delivered life-saving aid to people in desperate need — while watching more humanitarian disasters unfold.  We have seen progress towards denuclearization — and simultaneously renewed steps to rearmament.

    We had seen the progression of democracy, human rights and adherence to international law — while unfortunately now seeing a troubling trend in the opposite direction.  We have rallied behind the Sustainable Development Goals — and also seen growing gaps in inequalities.

    We have mobilized for climate action — and also are enduring record heat and climate chaos.  We have witnessed the breathtaking rise of digital technology and artificial intelligence, which hold so much potential for humanity — while we still work to ensure this technology is managed responsibly and safely.  We must continue to advance our work across all these fronts.

    But let’s be clear:  Today, we see assaults on the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations like never before.

    The threat or use of force against sovereign nations.  The violation of international law, including international humanitarian law and international human rights law.  The targeting of civilians and civilian infrastructure.  The weaponization of food and water.  The erosion of human rights.

    On and on, we see an all too familiar pattern:  Follow when the Charter suits, ignore when it does not. The Charter of the United Nations is not optional.  It is not an à la carte menu.  It is the bedrock of international relations.

    We cannot and must not normalize violations of its most basic principles.  Now more than ever, we must respect and recommit to international law — in words and deeds.

    To adapt to the digital, increasingly multipolar world. To respond to global shocks with unity and resolve.  To open our doors wider — to civil society, to young people, to the private sector. And to update how we work and build a stronger, renewed, inclusive, networked multilateralism — one that is tuned to the twenty-first century.

    Last September, Member States adopted the Pact for the Future, which reaffirmed the world’s commitment to international law and the Charter of the United Nations.

    On this anniversary, I urge all Member States to live up to the spirit and letter of the Charter, to the responsibilities it demands and to the future it summons us to build.  For peace.  For justice. For progress.  For we the peoples.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Commemorating Anniversary of Charter, Secretary-General Stresses ‘We Cannot and Must Not Normalize Violations of Its Most Basic Principles’

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    Following are UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ remarks to the commemorative plenary meeting of the General Assembly to observe the eightieth anniversary of the signing of the Charter of the United Nations, in New York today:

    Eighty years ago, from the ashes of war, the world planted a seed of hope.  One Charter, one vision, one promise:  that peace is possible when humanity stands together.

    The UN Charter is a declaration of hope — and the foundation of international cooperation for a better world.  And from day one, the United Nations has been a force of construction in a world often marked by destruction.

    A meeting ground where the fiercest rivals can come together to solve global problems.  An institution where the smallest are represented alongside the most powerful. A platform where voices of people everywhere can be heard.  A place grounded in the principles and letter of the Charter and other rules of international law.  And an engine of progress for human rights, sustainable development and humanitarian action.

    The Charter has given us the tools to change destinies, save lives and deliver hope to the most desperate corners of the world.  And we can draw a direct line from the creation of the United Nations and the prevention of a third world war.

    Upholding the purposes and principles of the Charter is a never-ending mission.  Over the decades, we have celebrated the end of wars — while witnessing the start of others.

    We have delivered life-saving aid to people in desperate need — while watching more humanitarian disasters unfold.  We have seen progress towards denuclearization — and simultaneously renewed steps to rearmament.

    We had seen the progression of democracy, human rights and adherence to international law — while unfortunately now seeing a troubling trend in the opposite direction.  We have rallied behind the Sustainable Development Goals — and also seen growing gaps in inequalities.

    We have mobilized for climate action — and also are enduring record heat and climate chaos.  We have witnessed the breathtaking rise of digital technology and artificial intelligence, which hold so much potential for humanity — while we still work to ensure this technology is managed responsibly and safely.  We must continue to advance our work across all these fronts.

    But let’s be clear:  Today, we see assaults on the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations like never before.

    The threat or use of force against sovereign nations.  The violation of international law, including international humanitarian law and international human rights law.  The targeting of civilians and civilian infrastructure.  The weaponization of food and water.  The erosion of human rights.

    On and on, we see an all too familiar pattern:  Follow when the Charter suits, ignore when it does not. The Charter of the United Nations is not optional.  It is not an à la carte menu.  It is the bedrock of international relations.

    We cannot and must not normalize violations of its most basic principles.  Now more than ever, we must respect and recommit to international law — in words and deeds.

    To adapt to the digital, increasingly multipolar world. To respond to global shocks with unity and resolve.  To open our doors wider — to civil society, to young people, to the private sector. And to update how we work and build a stronger, renewed, inclusive, networked multilateralism — one that is tuned to the twenty-first century.

    Last September, Member States adopted the Pact for the Future, which reaffirmed the world’s commitment to international law and the Charter of the United Nations.

    On this anniversary, I urge all Member States to live up to the spirit and letter of the Charter, to the responsibilities it demands and to the future it summons us to build.  For peace.  For justice. For progress.  For we the peoples.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Central African Republic at ‘Delicate Juncture’ ahead of Election Cycle, Peacekeeping Chief Tells Security Council, Urging International Support to Strengthen Democracy

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    As it prepares to hold elections, the Central African Republic stands at a delicate juncture, and international support is key to consolidate its unique opportunity to strengthen democracy and national reconciliation, the Security Council heard today from the top UN peacekeeping official, as well as the country’s representative.

    “This year is of particular significance for the Central African Republic as the country is preparing to organize local, presidential and legislative elections,” Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations said.  He highlighted the efforts of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) to assist the Government’s electoral preparations.

    Elections are a key component of the 2019 Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation, he pointed out.  However — and despite significant political will — local elections were postponed on several occasions due to financial, technical and logistical challenges.  “The electoral process is at a turning point and there’s a critical need to safeguard and preserve the progress that has been achieved.”  The international community must mobilize resources to prevent any backsliding. 

    Mistrust, Tensions Remain Despite Efforts to Implement 19 April Peace Agreement

    “The political situation remains punctuated by mistrust and tensions” between the majority in power and the opposition, he said, while noting efforts to implement the peace agreement reached on 19 April between the Government, and the Unité pour la paix en Centrafrique, or UPC and Retour, Réclamation, Réhabilitation, or 3R. Despite progress in expanding the authority of the State, violence by armed groups and militias continues to compromise stability.  The Government is collaborating with MINUSCA to improve border security, he said, noting the spillover of the Sudanese conflict in the north-east.  He also noted an attack on 28 March near Tabane, Haut-Mbomou Prefecture, which took the life of a Kenyan military observer.

    On the humanitarian front, “urgent needs continue to outpace available resources”, he said, noting the suspension of critical services of some of the most vulnerable populations.  Also noting persistent conflict-related sexual violence and violations of children’s rights, he said the Government, supported by the Mission, is making efforts to advance transitional justice mechanisms. Further, the Special Criminal Court is playing a significant role in the fight against impunity and transitional justice, and requires financial and human resources to sustain its activities.

    Calling on the Council to help consolidate the gains made by the country, he said:  “If these efforts are sustained in the spirit of partnership and shared responsibility, the Central African Republic has the potential to become a true success story, not only for Central Africans, but also for peacekeeping and for this Security Council.”

    He also recalled the tragic fire that occurred on Wednesday at Barthelemy Boganda High School in Bangui and expressed condolences to all the affected families.  Further, six days ago a MINUSCA patrol was attacked during an operation in response to signaling of attacks by armed Sudanese elements, resulting in the tragic loss of a Zambian blue helmet, he said, condemning that attack.

    Delegates Urge Investigation into Deadly Attack on MINUSCA Patrol

    In the ensuing discussion, speakers expressed their condolences for both events, and several called for an investigation into the attack on the MINUSCA patrol.

    Central African Republic’s Representative Points to National Reconciliation Efforts, ‘Promise of Rebirth’

    The representative of the Central African Republic called for a moment of silence in honor of the victims of these incidents.  “Recent progress reflects steadfast political will to end the cycle of violence” in his country, he said.  The inclusive political dialogue supported by the President and the 19 April ceasefire agreement providing for the dissolution of certain armed groups are examples of this.  Also detailing Government efforts to re-establish authority throughout the country, he said that the “triptych” of State authority, security and justice “represents our vision for national reconstruction”.  Further, he said, the lifting of the arms embargo in July 2024 was a “turning point”, which allowed national forces to be equipped through a legal, transparent framework.

    “However, force alone is not enough,” he observed, detailing additional Government efforts to establish peace, hold elections, uphold the rule of law and assist victims of sexual violence.  Nevertheless, the Sudanese conflict is a “genuine” threat, he said, reporting that a joint force established by his country and Chad in March aims to address its spillover.  “This mechanism,” he stated, “is part of a new generation of bilateral African cooperation in the service of collective security.”  For its part, he called on the Council to provide political, institutional, security and financial support.  He added that his country is not an “emergency situation”; rather, “it is a promise of rebirth”.

    Council members welcomed these positive developments, with the representative of Guyana, Council President for June, speaking in her national capacity and also for Somalia, Algeria and Sierra Leone, hailing the ongoing implementation of the 2019 Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation, the integration of 9 of 14 armed groups and the continued expansion of State authority across the country.  Also underscoring “the importance of the upcoming local and national elections as a milestone for democratic consolidation”, she said the international community must help address the significant funding gap affecting the electoral process.

    Unpaid Assessed Contributions for MINUSCA Raises Concern

    However, she also expressed concern about the ineffective implementation of the arms embargo and the persistent insecurity in various regions.  This is “exacerbated by armed groups competing over natural resources and trade routes”, she said, calling on non-signatory armed groups to join the peace process.  Noting the spillover effects from the Sudan conflict, she condemned the incursions by the Rapid Support Forces into Central African Republic territory and their reported collaboration with local armed groups. MINUSCA’s resource constraints, including unpaid assessed contributions, stand at over $400 million, she said, stressing that adequate and timely financing is essential for the Mission to deliver on its mandate, especially during this critical electoral period.

    Agreeing, the speaker for Slovenia, welcoming MINUSCA’s “proactive peacekeeping posture”, said it should be equipped with adequate support to ensure the safety of civilians and its own personnel.  The representative of Pakistan said that his country is proud to have 1,400 troops serving in MINUSCA.  “We will soon deploy a level-two field hospital in the Mission, which will provide medical facilities to uniformed personnel, civilian staff, Government officials and the local population,” he added.  However, pointing out that MINUSCA’s operational capacity is “crippled” by unpaid contributions, he urged Member States to pay in full and on time.

    Panama’s delegate added:  “Experience has taught us that withdrawing from a peace mission too soon may end up being more costly than sustaining it.”  Welcoming the Government’s efforts towards security sector reform, he urged finalization of the “military programming law”, which will “allow for clearer articulation of the needs of the defence sector”.

    Focus on Fighting Arms Trafficking and Combatants

    “The Central African Republic is on the path of returning to peace and security,” said France’s representative, as he asked the Council to continue assisting the Government in its fight against arms trafficking and combatants.  He pledged that his country would work together with all Council members and the Central African Republic on the renewal of the coercive measures against the armed groups outlined in resolution 2745 (2024).

    The representative of the United States said his delegation looks forward to engaging with Member States on renewing that sanctions regime.  He also expressed concern that Government regulations on fuel imports restrict MINUSCA’s operations, emphasizing that forcing the Mission to rely solely on Government-designated importers results in inflated fuel prices.  “This must stop,” he declared, urging the Government to uphold the status-of-forces agreement.

    International Support Must Respect Central African Republic’s Sovereignty

    “There is no room here for the obsolete, discredited colonialist practices, nor for their contemporary manifestations thereof,” warned the representative of the Russian Federation.  She voiced confidence in Bangui’s ability to translate security gains into socioeconomic progress, emphasizing that normalization — supported by the UN and international financial institutions — can become “irreversible” if grounded in respect for sovereignty and non-interference. The Government now controls nearly the entire national territory and the capabilities of the national armed forces are growing.  Armed groups must seize this opportunity to engage constructively with the authorities.  “The abandonment of armed struggle is the only path,” she said, warning:  “The alternative to this is well known — that is a one-way ticket.”

    Elections Must Be Timely, Orderly, Inclusive

    “The Central African Republic stands at a pivotal point in its transition from post-conflict recovery to sustainable development,” said the representative of the Republic of Korea, urging the Government to uphold its commitment to ensure timely, orderly and inclusive local, legislative and presidential elections, a call taken up by several speakers today.

    The representative of Denmark commended the work of the Government, National Elections Authority, MINUSCA and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in advancing preparations for elections.  She added:  “It is essential that all groups in society — especially women, young voters and internally displaced persons — can participate fully and freely.”  The representative of the United Kingdom, called on the Government — with MINUSCA’s support — to ensure a safe environment during all stages of the electoral cycle.  Greece’s delegate pointed out that “an expanding political and civic space is the most trustworthy pathway towards a demonstrated commitment by all stakeholders for further implementation of the Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation.”

    While the Central African Republic is entering a critical phase of economic recovery, China’s delegate said, it continues to face significant challenges, including a widening fiscal deficit, high inflation and power shortages.  The international community should prioritize helping countries, like this, achieve sustainable development by providing support in key areas, such as infrastructure, education and employment — aligned with the priorities outlined in the country’s National Development Action Plan.  “This,” he emphasized, “will in turn help consolidate the foundation for peace”.  At the recent Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, Beijing announced zero tariffs on 100 per cent of products from 53 African countries with diplomatic ties to China, he added.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Central African Republic at ‘Delicate Juncture’ ahead of Election Cycle, Peacekeeping Chief Tells Security Council, Urging International Support to Strengthen Democracy

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    As it prepares to hold elections, the Central African Republic stands at a delicate juncture, and international support is key to consolidate its unique opportunity to strengthen democracy and national reconciliation, the Security Council heard today from the top UN peacekeeping official, as well as the country’s representative.

    “This year is of particular significance for the Central African Republic as the country is preparing to organize local, presidential and legislative elections,” Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations said.  He highlighted the efforts of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) to assist the Government’s electoral preparations.

    Elections are a key component of the 2019 Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation, he pointed out.  However — and despite significant political will — local elections were postponed on several occasions due to financial, technical and logistical challenges.  “The electoral process is at a turning point and there’s a critical need to safeguard and preserve the progress that has been achieved.”  The international community must mobilize resources to prevent any backsliding. 

    Mistrust, Tensions Remain Despite Efforts to Implement 19 April Peace Agreement

    “The political situation remains punctuated by mistrust and tensions” between the majority in power and the opposition, he said, while noting efforts to implement the peace agreement reached on 19 April between the Government, and the Unité pour la paix en Centrafrique, or UPC and Retour, Réclamation, Réhabilitation, or 3R. Despite progress in expanding the authority of the State, violence by armed groups and militias continues to compromise stability.  The Government is collaborating with MINUSCA to improve border security, he said, noting the spillover of the Sudanese conflict in the north-east.  He also noted an attack on 28 March near Tabane, Haut-Mbomou Prefecture, which took the life of a Kenyan military observer.

    On the humanitarian front, “urgent needs continue to outpace available resources”, he said, noting the suspension of critical services of some of the most vulnerable populations.  Also noting persistent conflict-related sexual violence and violations of children’s rights, he said the Government, supported by the Mission, is making efforts to advance transitional justice mechanisms. Further, the Special Criminal Court is playing a significant role in the fight against impunity and transitional justice, and requires financial and human resources to sustain its activities.

    Calling on the Council to help consolidate the gains made by the country, he said:  “If these efforts are sustained in the spirit of partnership and shared responsibility, the Central African Republic has the potential to become a true success story, not only for Central Africans, but also for peacekeeping and for this Security Council.”

    He also recalled the tragic fire that occurred on Wednesday at Barthelemy Boganda High School in Bangui and expressed condolences to all the affected families.  Further, six days ago a MINUSCA patrol was attacked during an operation in response to signaling of attacks by armed Sudanese elements, resulting in the tragic loss of a Zambian blue helmet, he said, condemning that attack.

    Delegates Urge Investigation into Deadly Attack on MINUSCA Patrol

    In the ensuing discussion, speakers expressed their condolences for both events, and several called for an investigation into the attack on the MINUSCA patrol.

    Central African Republic’s Representative Points to National Reconciliation Efforts, ‘Promise of Rebirth’

    The representative of the Central African Republic called for a moment of silence in honor of the victims of these incidents.  “Recent progress reflects steadfast political will to end the cycle of violence” in his country, he said.  The inclusive political dialogue supported by the President and the 19 April ceasefire agreement providing for the dissolution of certain armed groups are examples of this.  Also detailing Government efforts to re-establish authority throughout the country, he said that the “triptych” of State authority, security and justice “represents our vision for national reconstruction”.  Further, he said, the lifting of the arms embargo in July 2024 was a “turning point”, which allowed national forces to be equipped through a legal, transparent framework.

    “However, force alone is not enough,” he observed, detailing additional Government efforts to establish peace, hold elections, uphold the rule of law and assist victims of sexual violence.  Nevertheless, the Sudanese conflict is a “genuine” threat, he said, reporting that a joint force established by his country and Chad in March aims to address its spillover.  “This mechanism,” he stated, “is part of a new generation of bilateral African cooperation in the service of collective security.”  For its part, he called on the Council to provide political, institutional, security and financial support.  He added that his country is not an “emergency situation”; rather, “it is a promise of rebirth”.

    Council members welcomed these positive developments, with the representative of Guyana, Council President for June, speaking in her national capacity and also for Somalia, Algeria and Sierra Leone, hailing the ongoing implementation of the 2019 Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation, the integration of 9 of 14 armed groups and the continued expansion of State authority across the country.  Also underscoring “the importance of the upcoming local and national elections as a milestone for democratic consolidation”, she said the international community must help address the significant funding gap affecting the electoral process.

    Unpaid Assessed Contributions for MINUSCA Raises Concern

    However, she also expressed concern about the ineffective implementation of the arms embargo and the persistent insecurity in various regions.  This is “exacerbated by armed groups competing over natural resources and trade routes”, she said, calling on non-signatory armed groups to join the peace process.  Noting the spillover effects from the Sudan conflict, she condemned the incursions by the Rapid Support Forces into Central African Republic territory and their reported collaboration with local armed groups. MINUSCA’s resource constraints, including unpaid assessed contributions, stand at over $400 million, she said, stressing that adequate and timely financing is essential for the Mission to deliver on its mandate, especially during this critical electoral period.

    Agreeing, the speaker for Slovenia, welcoming MINUSCA’s “proactive peacekeeping posture”, said it should be equipped with adequate support to ensure the safety of civilians and its own personnel.  The representative of Pakistan said that his country is proud to have 1,400 troops serving in MINUSCA.  “We will soon deploy a level-two field hospital in the Mission, which will provide medical facilities to uniformed personnel, civilian staff, Government officials and the local population,” he added.  However, pointing out that MINUSCA’s operational capacity is “crippled” by unpaid contributions, he urged Member States to pay in full and on time.

    Panama’s delegate added:  “Experience has taught us that withdrawing from a peace mission too soon may end up being more costly than sustaining it.”  Welcoming the Government’s efforts towards security sector reform, he urged finalization of the “military programming law”, which will “allow for clearer articulation of the needs of the defence sector”.

    Focus on Fighting Arms Trafficking and Combatants

    “The Central African Republic is on the path of returning to peace and security,” said France’s representative, as he asked the Council to continue assisting the Government in its fight against arms trafficking and combatants.  He pledged that his country would work together with all Council members and the Central African Republic on the renewal of the coercive measures against the armed groups outlined in resolution 2745 (2024).

    The representative of the United States said his delegation looks forward to engaging with Member States on renewing that sanctions regime.  He also expressed concern that Government regulations on fuel imports restrict MINUSCA’s operations, emphasizing that forcing the Mission to rely solely on Government-designated importers results in inflated fuel prices.  “This must stop,” he declared, urging the Government to uphold the status-of-forces agreement.

    International Support Must Respect Central African Republic’s Sovereignty

    “There is no room here for the obsolete, discredited colonialist practices, nor for their contemporary manifestations thereof,” warned the representative of the Russian Federation.  She voiced confidence in Bangui’s ability to translate security gains into socioeconomic progress, emphasizing that normalization — supported by the UN and international financial institutions — can become “irreversible” if grounded in respect for sovereignty and non-interference. The Government now controls nearly the entire national territory and the capabilities of the national armed forces are growing.  Armed groups must seize this opportunity to engage constructively with the authorities.  “The abandonment of armed struggle is the only path,” she said, warning:  “The alternative to this is well known — that is a one-way ticket.”

    Elections Must Be Timely, Orderly, Inclusive

    “The Central African Republic stands at a pivotal point in its transition from post-conflict recovery to sustainable development,” said the representative of the Republic of Korea, urging the Government to uphold its commitment to ensure timely, orderly and inclusive local, legislative and presidential elections, a call taken up by several speakers today.

    The representative of Denmark commended the work of the Government, National Elections Authority, MINUSCA and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in advancing preparations for elections.  She added:  “It is essential that all groups in society — especially women, young voters and internally displaced persons — can participate fully and freely.”  The representative of the United Kingdom, called on the Government — with MINUSCA’s support — to ensure a safe environment during all stages of the electoral cycle.  Greece’s delegate pointed out that “an expanding political and civic space is the most trustworthy pathway towards a demonstrated commitment by all stakeholders for further implementation of the Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation.”

    While the Central African Republic is entering a critical phase of economic recovery, China’s delegate said, it continues to face significant challenges, including a widening fiscal deficit, high inflation and power shortages.  The international community should prioritize helping countries, like this, achieve sustainable development by providing support in key areas, such as infrastructure, education and employment — aligned with the priorities outlined in the country’s National Development Action Plan.  “This,” he emphasized, “will in turn help consolidate the foundation for peace”.  At the recent Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, Beijing announced zero tariffs on 100 per cent of products from 53 African countries with diplomatic ties to China, he added.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Security Council Press Statement on Terrorist Attack in Syria

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    The following Security Council press statement was issued today by Council President Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett (Guyana):

    The members of the Security Council condemned in the strongest terms the heinous and cowardly terrorist attack committed by a suicide bomber inside the Mar Elias Greek Orthodox Church in Dweila neighbourhood of Damascus, Syria, on 22 June.  The attack targeted Christians in their place of worship and resulted in the loss of lives of at least 20 people and dozens injured.

    The members of the Security Council expressed their deepest sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims and to the Syrian people and they wished a speedy and full recovery to those who were injured.

    The members of the Security Council reaffirmed that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security.

    The members of the Security Council underlined the need to hold perpetrators, organizers, financiers and sponsors of these reprehensible acts of terrorism accountable and bring them to justice, as well as protect all Syrians, regardless of ethnicity or religion.  They urged all States, in accordance with their obligations under international law and relevant Security Council resolutions, to cooperate actively with all relevant authorities in Syria in this regard.

    The members of the Security Council reiterated that any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation, wherever, whenever and by whomsoever committed.  They reaffirmed the need for all States to combat by all means, in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations and other obligations under international law, including international human rights law, international refugee law and international humanitarian law, threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Security Council Press Statement on Terrorist Attack in Syria

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    The following Security Council press statement was issued today by Council President Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett (Guyana):

    The members of the Security Council condemned in the strongest terms the heinous and cowardly terrorist attack committed by a suicide bomber inside the Mar Elias Greek Orthodox Church in Dweila neighbourhood of Damascus, Syria, on 22 June.  The attack targeted Christians in their place of worship and resulted in the loss of lives of at least 20 people and dozens injured.

    The members of the Security Council expressed their deepest sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims and to the Syrian people and they wished a speedy and full recovery to those who were injured.

    The members of the Security Council reaffirmed that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security.

    The members of the Security Council underlined the need to hold perpetrators, organizers, financiers and sponsors of these reprehensible acts of terrorism accountable and bring them to justice, as well as protect all Syrians, regardless of ethnicity or religion.  They urged all States, in accordance with their obligations under international law and relevant Security Council resolutions, to cooperate actively with all relevant authorities in Syria in this regard.

    The members of the Security Council reiterated that any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation, wherever, whenever and by whomsoever committed.  They reaffirmed the need for all States to combat by all means, in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations and other obligations under international law, including international human rights law, international refugee law and international humanitarian law, threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –