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Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister Carney meets with Prime Minister of Sweden Ulf Kristersson

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Today, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, met with the Prime Minister of Sweden, Ulf Kristersson, on the margins of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Summit in The Hague, the Netherlands.

    The prime ministers discussed deepening economic and security ties between their two countries. They reaffirmed their shared commitment to strengthening NATO and maritime defence across the North Atlantic and Arctic regions. They also discussed bolstering co-operation on defence procurement.

    The leaders reiterated their steadfast support for Ukraine and agreed on the imperative of achieving a just and lasting peace.

    Prime Minister Carney and Prime Minister Kristersson agreed to remain in close contact.

    Associated Link

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressional Prior Authorization Reform Leads Applaud New HHS & CMS Announcement

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Kelly (R-PA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Representatives Mike Kelly (PA-16), Suzan DelBene (WA-01), John Joyce, M.D. (PA-13), Ami Bera, M.D. (CA-06), and Senators Roger Marshall, M.D. (KS) and Mark Warner (VA), co-leads of the bipartisan Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act, released the following joint statement after an announcement Monday from U.S. Health & Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz that pledges to ease the Medicare Advantage prior authorization process.

    The pledge, which includes several provisions contained in their legislation, follows years of legislative progress led by Kelly and Congressional colleagues.

    “We applaud these commitments, which aims to improve health care access for millions of Americans by easing the Medicare Advantage prior authorization process,” the Members said. “We encourage our House and Senate colleagues to carry this momentum forward and to pass our life-changing legislation, the Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act, to ensure this progress becomes law.”

    Under the commitment, participating health plans would:

    • Standardize electronic prior authorization submissions using Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources (FHIR®)-based application programming interfaces.
    • Reduce the volume of medical services subject to prior authorization by January 1, 2026.
    • Honor existing authorizations during insurance transitions to ensure continuity of care.
    • Enhance transparency and communication around authorization decisions and appeals.
    • Expand real-time responses to minimize delays in care with real-time approvals for most requests by 2027.
    • Ensure medical professionals review all clinical denials.
       

    BACKGROUND

    In May 2025, Representative Mike Kelly (PA-16) reintroduced H.R. 3514, the Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Actalong with Representatives Suzan DelBene (WA-01), John Joyce, M.D. (PA-13), and Ami Bera, M.D. (CA-06), and Senators Roger Marshall, M.D. (KS) and Mark Warner (VA).

    Prior authorization is a tool used by health plans to reduce unnecessary care by requiring health care providers to get pre-approval for medical services. But it’s not without fault. The current system often results in unconfirmed faxes of a patient’s medical information or phone calls by clinicians which takes precious time away from delivering quality and timely care. Prior authorization continues to be the #1 administrative burden identified by health care providers, and three out of four Medicare Advantage enrollees are subject to unnecessary delays due to prior authorization. In recent years, the Office of the Inspector General at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) raised concerns after an audit revealed that Medicare Advantage plans ultimately approved 75% of requests that were originally denied. More recently, HHS OIG released a report finding that MA plans incorrectly denied beneficiaries’ access to services even though they met Medicare coverage rules.

    Health plans, health care providers, and patients agree that the prior authorization process must be improved to better serve patients and reduce unnecessary administrative burdens for clinicians. In fact, leading health care organizations released a consensus statement to address some of the most pressing concerns associated with prior authorization.

    Specifically, the bill would:

    • Establish an electronic prior authorization process for MA plans including a standardization for transactions and clinical attachments.
    • Increase transparency around MA prior authorization requirements and its use.
    • Clarify HHS’ authority to establish timeframes for e-prior authorization requests including   expedited determinations, real-time decisions for routinely approved items and services, and other prior authorization requests.
    • Expand beneficiary protections to improve enrollee experiences and outcomes.
    • Require HHS and other agencies to report to Congress on program integrity efforts and other ways to further improve the e-PA process.
    • Previously, Rep. Kelly led similar legislation in the 118th Congress. The Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act unanimously passed the House in the 117th Congress and was cosponsored by a majority of members in the Senate and House of Representatives. 

    The bill text can be found here and a section-by-section can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Beyer Statement On Fifth Straight Increase In Virginia’s Unemployment Rate

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Don Beyer (D-VA)

    Congressman Don Beyer (D-VA), who serves as the top House Democrat on the Congressional Joint Economic Committee, today expressed rising concern over Virginia’s economy, after monthly data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) showed that the Commonwealth’s unemployment rate had risen for the fifth consecutive month. The increase brought Virginia’s unemployment rate to 3.4 percent, its highest level since August 2021. Today’s data marks the first time that Virginia’s unemployment rate has risen for five consecutive months since the sustained job losses of the Great Recession in 2008-09.

    Beyer said:

    “The sustained increase in Virginia’s unemployment rate is a growing concern, especially amid the uncertainty created by President Trump and Elon Musk’s indiscriminate and ill-conceived mass firings of federal workers and contractors.

    “Governor Youngkin inherited a strong economy that was rebounding from the pandemic downturn with strong growth and job gains, and a 2.7 percent unemployment rate that was the envy of much of the nation. To be clear, our Commonwealth is still a great place to do business, with job gains still coming and unemployment below the national average. But today’s data shows we are now clearly moving in the wrong direction: under current leadership, the unemployment rate has risen for five straight months for the first time since the Great Recession, and reached its highest level since Governor Youngkin took office.

    “These gathering economic storm clouds are unfortunate but not surprising for anyone who reads the news. Sustained damage to Virginia’s economy – including this Administration’s mass firings of workers, terminations of key contracts, freezes of medical research funding, and attacks on our educational and research institutions – is bound to have an impact. Unless courts intervene, some of the largest firings and cuts will take effect in months to come, which would worsen the damage for Virginians. Unfortunately, our Governor and his allies have not only failed to defend our Commonwealth from these hits to our economy, they have cheered them on. Putting politics and party loyalty over Virginians and our economic security is a failure of leadership.”

    Historical economic data, including unemployment rates for states including Virginia, is tracked by the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis (FRED).

    Rep. Don Beyer (D-VA) is the Senior House Democrat on Congress’ Joint Economic Committee, and serves on the House Committee on Ways and Means, which has jurisdiction over major economic levers include tax policy, trade, and Social Security. He previously served as Virginia’s Lieutenant Governor from 1990-1998.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: ACT Budget 2025–26: investing in public health

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The 2025-26 ACT Budget is investing in a variety of initiatives that will improve access to high-quality public health care.

    They will also address the growing demand for, and rising cost of public hospital services.

    This investment includes support to:

    • address the growing demand in outpatient services, emergency department presentations and admitted patient care
    • enable the delivery of the ACT Government’s commitment of 70,000 elective surgeries over four years
    • deliver ongoing chronic disease services and expanded endoscopy services
    • meet the needs of long-stay patients and optimise patient flow through public hospitals.

    Investing in health infrastructure and services

    The 2025–26 Budget also funds:

    • early and enabling works for the design and construction of the new northside hospital
    • continued work on the Canberra Hospital Master Plan. This includes progressing planning and design for the new Pathology and Clinical Services Building and a feasibility plan for a mental health precinct at the Canberra Hospital campus
    • construction of the Inner South Health Centre
    • new imaging and x-ray services at the Belconnen Community Health Centre
    • improved palliative and end-of-life care services in the community to support people’s end-of-life choices
    • continuation of community-led youth mental health programs to provide mental health care that is accessible, timely and effective
    • more support for perinatal mental health services for birth parents and families through the Perinatal Wellbeing Centre and Perinatal Mental Health Alliance
    • continued operations at the Eating Disorders Residential Treatment Centre.

    Improving affordability and access for patients

    The Budget supports more affordable local access to primary health care.

    It will support GPs and the community through bulk billing incentives.

    From 1 July 2025, payroll tax changes for medical practices will exempt income from bulk billed GP services. This will reduce:

    • out-of-pocket costs for patients
    • administrative burden on practices.

    A grants program will also be piloted over two years. It will support general practices that commit to bulk billing all children under 16.

    This will make a trip to the doctor more affordable for families.

    The investment complements the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening Medicare.

    Professional development and wellbeing support for staff

    Budget investment will boost professional development and wellbeing support for general practice staff.

    This includes investment in the Drs4Drs mental health support program.

    The ACT Government will also expand Junior Medical Officer (JMO) placements into general practice settings.

    This will promote early consideration of a GP career pathway.

    More support for the ACT’s First Nations health workforce

    The Budget will include support to:

    • grow the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workforce in the ACT
    • address systemic barriers to participation.

    This includes investment in:

    • new workforce governance structures
    • culturally safe supervision
    • support for local implementation of the National First Nations Workforce Plan.

    There will be new dedicated roles, better training and supervision, and action on systemic racism in the health system.

    This will help build a stronger First Nations workforce to deliver culturally safe care in the ACT.

    A stronger primary care system

    Primary care is the foundation of a strong health system.

    This support for the GP workforce will help them continue providing high-quality, accessible care.

    Expanding community-based, person-centred health care will:

    • help Canberrans get the care they need
    • reduce pressure on the hospital system.

    The investments are part of a coordinated approach to grow and support the health workforce. They are key actions in the ACT Health Workforce Strategy: Action Plan 2024–2026.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: US attack on Iran lacks legal justification and could lead to more nuclear proliferation

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By David Hastings Dunn, Professor of International Politics in the Department of Political Science and International Studies, University of Birmingham

    After a stern warning from Donald Trump, Israel and Iran appear finally to be observing a US-brokered ceasefire announced by Donald Trump overnight on June 23. But just as it remains unclear what the state of the conflict is, many other uncertainties remain when it comes to the US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.

    We still don’t know the extent to which Iran’s stock of enriched uranium and the capability to use it have been destroyed. But leaving aside such practical considerations, the US bombing raid also constituted an attack on the prevailing international legal order.

    In some ways, the US actions echo the 1981 Israeli strike on Osirak when the Israeli Air Force attacked and partially destroyed Iraq’s Osirak nuclear reactor, killing ten Iraqi soldiers and one French technician.

    However, the US attack can be seen as more serious because it has been launched in a far more fragile and geopolitical environment. Moreover, the state violating the legal rules is the erstwhile guardian of the legal order –– the USA.

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    The attacks appear to be the logical follow through of Trump’s withdrawal from the joint comprehensive plan of action (JCPOA) in 2018. This was the Obama-era agreement that significantly limited Iran’s enrichment of nuclear material. For Trump, that negotiated deal was imperfect, as it relied on ongoing Iranian restraint. His decision to unleash US bombers was designed to end the nascent Iranian nuclear threat once and for all.

    But such unilateral actions rarely result in such black and white results. And this situation shows every indication of being no different. It is for this reason that negotiated solutions and agreed legal frameworks are generally regarded as better long-term solutions than military force.

    A significant inhibition on the use of force to remove nuclear threats has been its lack of justification under international law. When the administration of George W Bush decided to launch its invasion of Iraq in 2003, the US, UK and Australian governments that spearheaded the invasion relied on the express legal justification that Iraq was already in breach of existing UN security council resolutions that required it to be disarmed of all weapons of mass destruction (WMD).

    For his part, Trump relied on the argument that Iran’s nuclear facilities already posed an imminent threat to US security. This argument had been undermined by none other than Trump’s director of national intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, just weeks previously.

    Gabbard testified before Congress in March that the US “continues to assess that Iran is not building a nuclear weapon and Supreme Leader Khamenei has not authorised the nuclear weapons programme he suspended in 2003”.

    Tulsi Gabbard delivers the annual threat assessment in March 2025.

    Trump, who has a habit of ignoring his intelligence community, dismissed Gabbard’s assessment saying, “I don’t care what she said. I think they’re very close to having it”.

    No legal justification

    One thing that is striking about the June 22 US bombing campaign is the cursory attention given to any substantive legal justification. It’s a distinct contrast to Bush’s attempts – however much this strained the law to breaking point – to justify his 2003 use of force.

    The US ambassador to the United Nations, Dorothy Camille Shea, made only the most limited of references to the legality of the action in her speech to the UN security council a day after the US strikes.

    George W Bush’s ‘Mission accomplished’ speech.

    In our book Drones, Force, and Law we demonstrate how the defining mark of an international society is that states recognise the need to give an account of their behaviour in terms of the accepted legal rules.

    Even when policymakers know that they are breaking established interpretations of the law, they rarely admit this publicly. They seek to offer a legal justification – however strained and implausible – that is in conformity with the rules.

    If a state openly admitted that it was violating the law, giving a justification for its conduct only in terms of that state’s values and beliefs, then it would be treating others with contempt. It would, to quote the respected Australian international relations theorist, Hedley Bull, “place in jeopardy all the settled expectations that states have about one another’s behaviour”.

    This is exactly what Trump is doing by not seeking to expressly justify the US’ use of force in legal terms. This invites others to mount a broader assault on international law itself as something that is both fragile and hypocritical in the hands of the powerful.

    Unintended consequences

    The US has justified its attack as aimed at preventing Iran from developing a nuclear weapon. But a perverse consequence of the attack is that it is likely to further erode the norm against proliferation. There are two key arguments here.

    The first is that all three Iranian facilities attacked were, before Israel initially attacked Iran on June 12, under International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards. So, by attacking these installations, the US – like Israel four decades ago with its attack against Osirak – was signalling that it had no confidence in the multilateral mechanisms of non-proliferation. It was essentially saying that it has to rely on unilateral action.

    The second consequence is that a strike aimed at preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons may instead push it – and others – to accelerate weaponisation efforts. These US attacks may confirm for many the earlier lessons from Iraq, as well as subsequently in Libya and Ukraine. States without nuclear weapons are vulnerable to regime change or military action.

    If this is the lesson that is drawn by those who live in dangerous neighbourhoods and who are increasingly worried about their security, then the US action could serve as a further spur to nuclear proliferation.

    Trump has shown a worrying propensity to ignore legal constraints on his power both domestically and internationally. This action, less than six months into his administration, is an alarming harbinger of his contempt for the internationally agreed legal rules restricting the use of force.

    David Hastings Dunn has previously received funding from the ESRC, the Gerda Henkel Foundation, the Open Democracy Foundation and has previously been both a NATO and a Fulbright Fellow.

    Nicholas Wheeler has formally received funding from the Economic and Social Research Council and the Open Society Foundations.

    – ref. US attack on Iran lacks legal justification and could lead to more nuclear proliferation – https://theconversation.com/us-attack-on-iran-lacks-legal-justification-and-could-lead-to-more-nuclear-proliferation-259638

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Is your cat vocal or quiet? The explanation could be in their genes

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Grace Carroll, Lecturer in Animal Behaviour and Welfare, School of Psychology, Queen’s University Belfast

    savitskaya iryna/Shutterstock

    If you’ve ever shared your home with more than one cat, you’ll know how different their personalities can be. One might chirp for food, purr loudly on your lap and greet visitors at the door. Another might prefer quiet observation from a distance.

    So why do some cats become chatty companions while others seem more reserved?

    A recent study led by wildlife researcher Yume Okamoto and their colleagues at Kyoto University suggests that part of the answer may lie in cat genes.

    Cat owners from across Japan were asked to complete a questionnaire about their cat (the Feline Behavioural Assessment and Research Questionnaire), and to take a cheek swab from their pet to provide a DNA sample. The survey included questions about a range of cat behaviour, including purring and vocalisations directed at people.

    The researchers in the recent Japanese study focused on the cats’ androgen receptor (AR) gene, located on the X chromosome. This gene helps regulate the body’s response to hormones such as testosterone and contains a section where a DNA sequence is repeated. AR is an essential part of vertebrate biology.

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    The most ancient form of AR appeared in the common ancestor of all jawed vertebrates, over 450 million years ago. AR controls the formation of male reproductive organs, secondary sexual characteristics and reproductive behaviour. The number of these sequences alters how responsive the gene is. Shorter repeats make the receptor more sensitive to androgens. In other species, including humans and dogs, shorter repeats in the AR gene have been linked with increased aggression and extraversion.

    Among 280 spayed or neutered cats, those with the short AR gene variant purred more often. Males with the variant also scored higher for directed vocalisations such as meowing to be fed or let out. Females with the same genotype, however, were more aggressive towards strangers. Meanwhile, cats with the longer, less active version of the gene tended to be quieter. This variant was more common in pedigree breeds, which are typically bred for docility.

    Could you resist this kitten’s meowing?
    digidreamgrafix/Shutterstock

    Domestication is generally thought to have increased vocal behaviour in cats, so it may seem odd that the version of the gene linked to increased communication and assertiveness is the one also found in wild species such as lynx.

    But this study doesn’t tell a straightforward narrative about how cat domestication selects for sociable traits. Instead, it points to a more complex picture. One where certain ancestral traits like aggression may still be useful, especially in high-stress or resource-scarce domestic environments.

    Some animals spend a lot of time around humans because they are attracted by our resources rather than bred as companion animals or farmed. Urban gulls offer an interesting example of how close proximity to humans doesn’t always make animals more docile. In cities, herring and lesser black-backed gulls (both often referred to as seagulls) have become bolder and more aggressive.

    Researchers at Liverpool John Moores University found that urban gulls were less fearful of humans and more prone to squabbling compared to their rural counterparts. In urban areas, where food is highly contested, being assertive gets results. Gulls are often vilified in the UK press during breeding season as urban villains, swooping down to snatch your lunch or chase pedestrians. This suggests that life alongside humans can sometimes favour more confrontational behaviour.

    The parallels with cats raise broader questions about how environment and genes shape behaviour. Okamoto and colleagues’ findings may reflect a trade-off. Traits linked to the short AR variant, such as greater vocalisation or assertiveness, might offer advantages in gaining human attention in uncertain or competitive settings. But these same traits may also manifest as aggression, suggesting that domestication can produce a mix of desirable and challenging traits.

    It’s worth bearing in mind that this kind of variation between individuals is fundamental to the evolution of species. Without variation in behaviour, species would struggle to adapt to changing environments. For cats, this means there may be no single ideal temperament, but rather a range of traits that prove useful under different domestic conditions.

    From cats to gulls, life alongside humans doesn’t always produce gentler animals. Sometimes, a little pushiness pays off.

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

    – ref. Is your cat vocal or quiet? The explanation could be in their genes – https://theconversation.com/is-your-cat-vocal-or-quiet-the-explanation-could-be-in-their-genes-259402

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: A border conflict may cost the Thai prime minister her job

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Petra Alderman, Manager of the Saw Swee Hock Southeast Asia Centre, London School of Economics and Political Science

    The fate of Thailand’s prime minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, is hanging in the balance after only ten months in office. A recent flare-up in a historical border conflict between Cambodia and Thailand could become her ultimate undoing.

    Paetongtarn has been criticised for her handling of the conflict after tensions escalated in May when a Cambodian soldier was killed in a fire exchange with Thai troops.

    One of Paetongtarn’s sore points is the longstanding close relationship between her father Thaksin Shinawatra and the former Cambodian prime minister and current president of the Senate, Hun Sen.

    Thaksin spent 15 years in self-imposed exile after he was ousted as Thailand’s prime minister in a 2006 military coup. Hun Sen enabled Thaksin to use Cambodia as a frequent base for meeting political allies during his exile. He even named Thaksin his special advisor.

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    Following Thaksin’s return to Thailand in August 2023, after which he spent six months in detention, Hun Sen visited Thaksin within days of his release on parole. This further buttressed the relationship between the two.

    Conservative Thais have used this closeness to criticise Paetongtarn and her government for being “too soft” in their dealings with Cambodia. But things turned particularly ugly on June 18 when an audio recording of Paetongtarn’s 17-minute phone call with Hun Sen was leaked via his official Facebook page.

    In the recording, Paetongtarn refers to Hun Sen in familial terms as “uncle” and offers to “take care of” anything he might want in exchange for a peaceful resolution to the border conflict.

    She also disparages a senior Thai army general, Lt Gen Boonsin Padklang, who oversees the border region. This is a dangerous move in a country where the military has considerable political clout and a history of successful military interventions against the Shinawatras.

    The leak has had a chilling effect on the close personal relations between the Shinawatras and Hun Sen. Its domestic effects have also been nothing short of disastrous for Paetongtarn.

    It came at a time of deteriorating relations between Paetongtarn’s Pheu Thai party and Bhumjaithai, its largest coalition partner. Bhumjaithai used the leaked audio recording to exit the ruling coalition on June 18, leaving Paetongtarn with a slim governing majority amid a major political crisis.

    She is now facing a string of popular protests from across the political spectrum and mounting calls by the opposition to resign.

    Paetongtarn has issued a public apology and arranged a call with Boonsin to explain her conversation with Hun Sen. On June 20, she also made a hasty trip to the border area to appear alongside Boonsin in a show of unity.

    But none of these actions are likely to repair the damage. Paetongtarn now has three options.

    Paetongtarn’s three options

    Her first option is to dig in and continue as prime minister, a path she seems to have settled on for now. This won’t guarantee her long-term survival. Her coalition, which has been cobbled together on the back of political necessity and controversial dealmaking rather than loyalty and shared policy agendas, is still fragile.

    In the wake of Bhumjaithai’s exit, other coalition partners held internal party meetings to discuss whether to follow suit or continue to stick with the embattled prime minister. For now, all remaining coalition partners have pledged their support, probably in exchange for some of the cabinet positions left vacant by Bhumjaithai.

    The current cabinet reshuffle, due to be unveiled by June 27, might paper over the coalition cracks. But it won’t resolve all problems. At least three MPs from the Democrat party, Pheu Thai’s third-largest coalition partner, have signalled they would resign should their party stick with Paentongtarn.

    Pheu Thai’s new largest coalition partner, the ultra-conservative United Thai Nation (UTN) party, might also cause further trouble.

    The party was initially set to push for Paentongtarn’s resignation in exchange for preserving the coalition arrangements. This ultimately did not happen, but Paetongtarn cannot rest on her laurels. UTN is internally fractured, and one faction’s exit could destabilise the entire government.

    Even if Paetongtarn manages to keep the coalition together, she could still be brought down by legal means. Several Bhumjaithai-aligned senators have lodged respective petitions with the Constitutional Court and the National Anti-Corruption Commission to investigate Paetongtarn for ethical misconduct.

    This could lead to her impeachment and eventual dismissal, as in the case of her predecessor, Srettha Thavisin. Other legal challenges are also mounting.

    And then there is always the possibility of another coup. The military brought down the governments of Paetongtarn’s father and later her aunt Yingluck in 2014.

    Paetongtarn’s second option is to resign, making way for parliament to select a new prime minister. The selection would have to be made from a list of prime ministerial candidates submitted to the Election Commission before the 2023 election.

    Pheu Thai originally fielded three prime ministerial candidates, the maximum number permitted by law. With Srettha and Paetongtarn out of the game, Chaikasem Nitisiri would be Pheu Thai’s only prime ministerial option.

    However, Chaikasem is rumoured to suffer from a long-term ill health, and Pheu Thai would still need to muster sufficient support from its coalition partners. This could prove difficult as UTN is one of the only coalition parties left that still has a viable prime ministerial candidate. It could use this situation to try and take over the premiership.

    Under the third option, Paetongtarn could dissolve parliament and call a snap election. This is perhaps her least attractive option.

    The People’s party, the progressive successor of the Move Forward party that beat Pheu Thai to first place in the 2023 election, is enjoying a considerable surge in popularity. Going to the polls could prove too risky, not only for Pheu Thai but also for the entire conservative establishment.



    Read more:
    Thailand’s conservative elites oust prime minister and ban opposition

    None of these options are particularly promising, but they carry an important lesson about the volatility of political dealmaking. Whether Paetongtarn and – more crucially – her father will learn this lesson remains to be seen. In the meantime, all eyes will be on Thailand and the country’s military.

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

    – ref. A border conflict may cost the Thai prime minister her job – https://theconversation.com/a-border-conflict-may-cost-the-thai-prime-minister-her-job-259532

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Dementia: are younger generations really less likely to develop the disorder, as a recent study has claimed?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Clarissa Giebel, Senior Research Fellow in the Institute of Population Health, NIHR Applied Research Collaboration North West Coast, University of Liverpool

    The study revealed that dementia cases decreased for each subsequent generation. AtlasStudio/ Shutterstock

    Dementia affects over 57 million people worldwide – and this number is only projected to grow. By 2030, 78 million people are estimated to have dementia. By 2050, it’s projected that number will reach 139 million people.

    Despite this, a surprising new study has suggested that dementia risk has actually declined with each generation. However, there are good reasons to be sceptical of this finding.

    The researchers analysed data from 62,437 people aged 70 and over. Data was collected from three longitudinal cohort studies on ageing, including one conducted in the US, one in Europe and one from England.

    To conduct their analysis, the researchers compared probable dementia diagnoses from people born in eight different generation cohorts. The people in the first cohort were born in 1890-1913, while those in the most recent cohort were born in 1944-48.

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    The researchers employed an algorithm that suggested probable dementia diagnosis. This was based on participants’ demographic characteristics, as well as their cognitive performance and everyday functioning skills (including how well they were able to perform daily functions, such as washing and feeding, and how well they could remember things). These are standard assessment tools used in clinical practice to diagnose dementia.

    To then validate the algorithm’s projections on probable dementia cases, the predictions were compared against a sub-sample of participants from the US Aging, Demographics and Memory study who had a clinical diagnosis of dementia.

    The participants in this study had undergone a rigorous three- to four-hour cognitive assessment. The algorithm used to create dementia projections showed an over 85% agreement with clinical diagnosis data from that sub-sample data.

    Once dementia status was calculated, the authors computed two models to ascertain the relationship between age, cohort and dementia onset. They also included gross domestic product (GDP) in their analyses, as there’s a correlation between GDP and health – with research showing that people in higher-income nations tend to be healthier than those living in lower-income nations.

    Dementia cases fell across the generations – with those born between 1944and 1948 having the lowest risk.
    Halfpoint/ Shutterstock

    Their findings revealed that dementia cases decreased for each subsequent generation. For instance, in the US, the algorithm indicated that 25% of people born between 1890-1912 developed dementia, while only 15% of those born in the most recent cohort (1939-1943) developed dementia.

    In England, almost 16% of people born between 1924-28 were indicated to have developed dementia, compared with around 15% in those born between 1934-38. This effect was also apparently more pronounced for women than for men.

    It remains unclear why dementia cases fell across the generations, with more recent cohorts having reduced dementia cases.

    Projected diagnoses

    What does this mean? And how does this compare against existing projections?

    While the authors used a large sample from three established ageing research cohorts, the findings are based on data from high-income countries only.

    It’s well known that dementia can be better diagnosed and cared for in high-income countries, where there are more and better healthcare services and professionals. Dementia is hugely stigmatised in low- and middle-income countries as well. As a result, many people are not as aware of dementia as people living in high-income societies.

    This means people in lower-income countries may know less about the associated risk factors for dementia and are less likely to receive a diagnosis and support. This is particularly relevant given the fact that most people with dementia reside in low- and middle-income countries.

    With a lack of cohort data on older adults and dementia cases in low- and middle-income countries, the findings from this study do not provide representative projections on dementia diagnoses globally.

    It’s also important to consider the methods the authors used in their study. The authors used a prediction model. Although this model had high agreement with clinical diagnosis, there are still cases of dementia that will have been missed out as a result.

    Similarly, the authors did not distinguish between dementia subtypes in their modelling. Dementia is just an umbrella term. About 60-70% of dementia cases are actually Alzheimer’s disease.

    But there are also many rarer subtypes – such as Lewy Body dementia or semantic dementia. Each subtype brings with it different symptoms. A generic model is unlikely to pick up each subtype dementia case correctly.

    All these factors may possibly explain how the study came to their conclusions.

    Dementia cases worldwide are actually predicted to increase. As such, the findings from this study should be considered with caution. It may not be the case that dementia prevalence continues to fall for more recently born generations.

    Part of the reason for these projections is due to the fact that people are living longer and growing older. Dementia primarily affects people aged over 65, so with more people living to be over 65 this means that more people will be at risk of developing the disorder.

    The world population is growing, too. So naturally we’re going to see more people living with dementia – particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where people may have less knowledge of dementia symptoms and may be less able to address the modifiable risk factors linked to greater risk, due to poor healthcare infrastructure.

    We know that overall, people from more socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds experience greater health inequalities – and these health inequalities may contribute to increased risk of dementia. But as this factor was not taken into account in the study, it’s difficult to know whether there really will be any differences in the projected number of dementia cases in younger generations.

    Clarissa Giebel receives funding from the ESRC and the NIHR. She sits on the Scientific Advisory Committee of the Lewy Body Society.

    – ref. Dementia: are younger generations really less likely to develop the disorder, as a recent study has claimed? – https://theconversation.com/dementia-are-younger-generations-really-less-likely-to-develop-the-disorder-as-a-recent-study-has-claimed-258429

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why Nice was right to say no – for now – to new Alzheimer’s drugs

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Paul Atkinson, Senior Research Fellow, History of Health and Medicine, University of Liverpool

    The UK’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice) has declined to recommend two new Alzheimer’s drugs for routine NHS use in England. While disappointing for some families affected by dementia, this decision reflects a cautious and evidence-based approach that protects patients and public funds.

    The drugs in question – lecanemab, made by Eisai, and donanemab made by Eli Lilly – have received significant attention, with headlines hailing them as “breakthrough” treatments and “miracle” drugs. However, Nice has a long history of closely scrutinising new dementia drugs – and, as in previous cases, it has raised important questions about how much benefits these medicines actually provide.

    The main claim is that these drugs can delay the progression of Alzheimer’s by about four to six months in people with early-stage disease. That’s not nothing – but it’s also not the dramatic shift some headlines imply.

    It’s also important to distinguish between clinical trial results and how treatments perform in everyday care. Trial conditions are controlled and selective, whereas the NHS treats a much broader mix of patients.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    There are other factors to consider, too. These drugs come with risks – including the potential for brain swelling and bleeding – and require invasive testing, such as lumbar puncture or regular brain scans, before and during treatment. The infusions must also be delivered at a hospital infusion over many months. For some patients, that burden may outweigh the modest benefit.

    Another issue is that we don’t yet know whether the benefits last beyond the 18-month trial period. Nice must base its decisions on long-term projections, using well established tools such as the quality-adjusted life year to weigh the health benefits against the cost to the NHS. These decisions often involve complex models – and reasonable people may interpret the evidence differently.

    Cost plays a role too. In the US, the drugs are priced at up to £25,000 per patient per year. While companies can offer discounts to the NHS, Nice must still consider whether the same money might do more good elsewhere in the health system.

    In this case, Nice concluded that the benefits of the new Alzheimer’s treatments are still too small to justify the additional costs at the current price point – a decision supported by some experts.

    Tom Dening, professor of dementia research at the University of Nottingham, described the benefits as “minimal” and warned they could distract from other priorities, such as providing good care and support for people already living with dementia.

    A person receiving the treatment would need to go for regular infusions.
    Laura v.d. Broek/Shutterstock.com

    Heated debate

    Nonetheless, the debate has become heated. Some drug companies have argued that the UK system is flawed, suggesting that even offering their drug for free would not be enough to secure approval. But this misunderstands how Nice works. Evaluating the full cost – not just of the drug, but of scans, infusions and monitoring – is not a flaw, it’s part of responsible decision-making.

    There are echoes here of earlier disputes from the 2000s when companies tried to publicly pressure Nice to change its decisions. However, history suggests that this strategy rarely works. Ministers have consistently supported Nice’s independence, and the agency’s record shows that it usually says “yes” – or at least yes under certain conditions – even to very expensive drugs, where the evidence supports their use.

    The current decision is still technically a “final draft”. Both companies have until July 3 to comment or appeal. In 2007, Eisai took Nice to court – and lost. This time, an appeal is more likely.

    Understanding the principles behind Nice’s decision helps put this outcome in context. These are not decisions taken lightly. They reflect a careful balance of evidence, risk, cost and benefit to patients – and, crucially, a commitment to fairness in how NHS resources are used.

    Paul Atkinson received funding from the Wellcome Trust for the research on which this article draws.

    Sally Sheard has received funding from Wellcome, NIHR, UKRI and the PGH Foundation.

    – ref. Why Nice was right to say no – for now – to new Alzheimer’s drugs – https://theconversation.com/why-nice-was-right-to-say-no-for-now-to-new-alzheimers-drugs-259475

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Robert Garcia Statement On Election to Ranking Member of the House Oversight Committee

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Robert Garcia California (42nd District)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Robert Garcia (CA-42) released the following statement after House Democrats selected him to serve as Ranking Member of the House Oversight Committee. He was elected by a vote of 150-63.

    “I am honored to have been chosen by my colleagues to serve as Ranking Member of the House Oversight Committee. We will hold Donald Trump and his Administration accountable for their corruption and abuses of power, and will work to make our government more efficient and effective for the American people. I look forward to working with the incredible members of the committee. Now let’s get to work.” said Congressman Robert Garcia.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: In Delaware Bar Journal, Senator Coons urges First State lawyers to uphold rule of law in the face of administration attacks

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons

    WILMINGTON, Del. – In case you missed it, The Journal of the Delaware State Bar Association published a piece from U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) where he thanked Delaware lawyers for upholding their commitment to the rule of law and urged them to continue fighting for their clients and our judicial system. Senator Coons is a member of the Delaware Bar and a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee.

    As Senator Coons noted, the Trump administration has launched a series of attacks on the rule of law since returning to the White House in January. President Trump has signed executive orders against law firms who have taken cases and hired lawyers he opposes. He has launched broadsides against judges who have ruled against him. His Justice Department has fired lawyers for adhering to their duty of candor to the court. 

    Senator Coons outlined steps he’s taking in Washington to push back on this assault by ensuring judicial nominees will uphold the law and demanding answers from the administration when they overstep their legal authority. He also reminded lawyers in Delaware and across the country, however, that they too have a part to play: “When a client comes to you, think about the merits of their case, not their political opinions,” he wrote. “If your client is targeted because of their political beliefs, stand with them.”

    From The Delaware Bar Journal: In response to “The Rally for the Rule of Law” article

    As members of the Delaware Bar, we swore an oath to “support the Constitution of the United States” and to behave with “all good fidelity” to the courts and our clients. Today, the Constitution, the courts, and the rule of law on which our clients depend are under attack. Upholding our oath means doing whatever we can to come to their defense.

    …

    There are people reading this right now, members of the Delaware Bar, colleagues, who are part of those firms or work at companies they represent. Maybe it will be a Wilmington judge who next issues an order with which the president disagrees. Maybe it will be a Newark company who hopes to fight against a new Executive Order or enters into a contract the government won’t enforce.

    I ask that you think about your own practices.

    My job in Washington is to advocate for you and try to protect you in the face of these challenges. It’s to confirm judges who will look to the law to make their decisions rather than the president, to reassure lawyers and non-lawyers alike that they can have confidence in our system of ordered liberty.

    …

    I ask that you join in whatever ways you can.

    When a client comes to you, think about the merits of their case, not their political opinions. If your client is targeted because of their political beliefs, stand with them. If your company or firm finds itself on the wrong side of the next executive order, don’t give in to the threats.

    The arc of history does not bend itself. It bends through the work of our hands.

    READ MORE HERE

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: What They Are Saying: Senate Republicans’ Legislation Delivers for American Workers, Businesses

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–The Senate Finance Committee’s legislation prevents a more-than $4 trillion tax hike and makes the 2017 Trump tax cuts permanent, giving American families and businesses the certainty they need to invest and plan for the future.

    Individuals and organizations committed to promoting economic opportunity and prosperity for all Americans are speaking out in support of the Finance Committee tax legislation.

    U.S. Chamber of Commerce

    “The Senate has taken the House-passed bill and strengthened the policies that do the most to increase domestic investment, job creation, and wage growth.  In particular, the Senate prioritizes the permanent reinstatement of three crucial tax policies.

    “These reforms are not only foundational to a competitive tax code, but they also provide the certainty and stability businesses and workers need to foster the type of major, long-term capital investments that fuel economic growth and opportunity for all Americans.” – Neil Bradley, Executive Vice President, U.S Chamber of Commerce

    National Association of Manufacturers

    “We commend Chairman Crapo for his leadership and steadfast commitment to pro-manufacturing tax policy. By preserving the full suite of pro-growth policies from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, this bill marks a major step forward for manufacturing in America.” – Jay Timmons, President and CEO, National Association of Manufacturers

    National Restaurant Association

    “The Senate has included in their tax bill the top priorities restaurant operators need to be the engines of their local economies. The inclusion of a permanent 199A qualified business income deduction, full expensing of capital investments, and the return of depreciation and amortization in the calculation of business interest expense have been our highest tax priorities for more than two years. We are also pleased to see many other policies like No Tax on Tips and Overtime are also included. We appreciate the work that has gone into getting the bill to this point and urge the Senate to pass this legislation to support the restaurant industry.” – Sean Kennedy, Executive Vice President, National Restaurant Association

    U.S. Department of the Treasury 

    “We applaud the Senate’s action to progress this critical legislation and expand upon President Trump’s tax relief for hardworking Americans.  The passage of this bill will deliver the permanence and certainty both individual taxpayers and businesses alike are looking for, driving growth and unleashing the American economy.” – Scott Bessent, U.S. Treasury Secretary

    Americans for Tax Reform

    “The Senate tax package delivers on President Trump’s campaign pledge to make the 2017 tax cuts permanent, providing across the board, pro-growth tax relief for American households and businesses.

    “The Senate’s tax package improves upon the House-passed bill by making the most pro-growth tax cuts permanent, greatly increasing economic growth and boosting take-home pay for American households.” – Mike Palicz, Director, Americans for Tax Reform

    National Taxpayers’ Union

    “The Senate plan encourages long-term business investment in the U.S. by making growth-boosting provisions permanent.  The House’s bill provides those deductions on a temporary basis.  But making it permanent could double the bill’s projected economic growth effect.” – Brandon Arnold, Executive Vice President, National Taxpayers’ Union

    Advancing American Freedom

    “The Senate has built on the House’s strong start to renew the Trump tax cuts.  Now Congress must continue to refine this package and send it to President Trump’s desk.  Otherwise, American families will see a devastating $2,000 increase on their taxes next year.  Let’s get this done and prevent the largest tax hike in American history.” – Tim Chapman, President, Advancing American Freedom

    Coalition for 1099-K Fairness

    “The Coalition for 1099-K Fairness strongly supports the Senate Finance package’s inclusion of language to raise the 1099-K reporting threshold.  This commonsense provision would increase the threshold to over $20,000 in total payments and more than 200 transactions per calendar year—effectively stopping the implementation of a burdensome $600 threshold, regardless of transaction count, scheduled to take effect in 2026 under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARP).”

    Business Roundtable

    “Business Roundtable commends Chairman Crapo and the Senate Finance Committee for delivering strong legislation that builds on President Trump’s historic tax reform.  The Committee’s tax title marks the latest critical step toward protecting and boosting the economic benefits that tax reform delivered for American businesses, workers and families.” – Kristen Silverberg, President and COO, Business Roundtable

    Invest in Education Coalition

    “Access to opportunity for children across the country is one step closer to becoming a reality.  This bill will empower parents and provide students with opportunities regardless of their ZIP code and fulfill President Trump’s pledge of universal school choice.  We urge the U.S. Senate to pass this critically important bill to help America’s K-12 parents and students.” – Anthony J. de Nicola, Board Chairman, Invest in Education Coalition

    American Petroleum Institute

    “We applaud Chairman Crapo and the Senate Finance Committee for presenting a tax plan that fortifies America’s energy advantage. This proposal strengthens key investment provisions and encourages oil and natural gas development to meet growing demand for affordable, reliable energy. We look forward to working with Congress to get the One Big Beautiful Bill across the finish line and ensure a final tax package that advances global competitiveness.” – Mike Sommers, President and CEO, American Petroleum Institute

    Click HERE to view bill text.

    Click HERE for a section-by-section.

    Click HERE for a bill overview.

    Click HERE to view the 2025 Tax Reform landing page.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Off-Road Vehicle Trail Fund supports projects throughout B.C.

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Off-road vehicle enthusiasts can soon enjoy improved trails and recreation infrastructure in several communities throughout B.C.

    This year, $400,000 from the Province’s Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) Trail Fund will support 20 regional projects, such as building new trails, maintaining existing trails, or promoting safe and responsible use among riders.

    “Outdoor recreation connects people to nature,” said Tamara Davidson, Minister of Environment and Parks. “It’s all about staying active, building community and respecting our natural spaces. The ORV Trail Fund helps keep our trail networks safe and provides space for people to come together to enjoy the outdoors.”

    The projects are mainly led by volunteer groups and organizations that contribute thousands of hours to maintain and improve trails throughout the province. One of those groups is the Blue Mountain Motorcycle Club (BMMC), which received nearly $25,000 from the ORV Trail Fund to improve two key trails – Canterbury and the Pit – within the Blue Mountain riding area in Maple Ridge.

    Established in the late 1980s, the historic trails serve as connectors through mature forest and rugged terrain, offering riders unique features, such as technical rock slabs. The project ensures the two trails meet modern sustainability standards, while preserving their historic and recreational values for riders.

    “ORV Trail funding provides BMMC the opportunity to supplement our ongoing volunteer trail-maintenance projects with specific focus on erosion control, drainage, water crossings and trail tread hardening,” said Ryan Thom, president, BMMC. “Prioritizing these key practices allows BMMC to lead the charge in sustainable trail maintenance in coastal B.C., which is recognized as one of the most traditionally complex settings to build and maintain. Maintenance at Blue Mountain requires significant planning to bring our key trail improvement practices together with our team of volunteers and contractors, resulting in a long-lasting, sustainable, high-value recreation resource.”

    In the Okanagan, the Kelowna Snowmobile Club received $25,000 from the ORV Trail Fund to launch a major safety and signage improvement project across the Graystokes and McCulloch trail systems. The two-phase project, which supports responsible year-round use by all outdoor recreationists, includes creating new digital maps and artwork, followed by the installation of kiosks, trail markers and hazard warnings.

    “Receiving support from the ORV Trail Fund will allow us to improve trail safety, accessibility and signage across our network,” said Ashley McKillop with the Kelowna Snowmobile Club. “These upgrades will benefit both new and seasoned snowmobilers by creating a more informed and enjoyable riding experience.”

    In the southeastern corner of B.C., the Kootenay Rockies ATV Club received $25,000 to support brushing and maintenance work on more than 22 kilometres of trail northeast of Cranbrook. Four key trail sections that form a scenic loop connecting the St. Mary River Valley, Angus Creek and Hell Roaring Forestry Service Road will be restored to improve access for ATV riders.  

    “The Kootenay Rockies ATV Club is excited to hear we will receive funding from the ORV Trail Fund to improve safety, promote responsible recreation and ensure long-term access to one of the region’s most beautiful trail networks,” said Bernie Ogonoski, chair, Kootenay Rockies ATV Trail Committee. “These trail sections connect to a larger trail network in the area, thus providing some great riding over a vast scenic area just outside of Cranbrook.”

    Now in its eighth year, the ORV Trail Fund is a user-funded program administered by Recreation Sites and Trails BC in partnership with the BC Power Sports Coalition. Since its beginning in 2017, more than $2 million has supported 160 projects throughout the province, removing financial barriers for communities and volunteer groups.

    Learn More:

    To learn more about the Off-Road Vehicle Trail Fund and view a full list of this year’s recipients, visit:
    https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/sports-culture/recreation/camping-hiking/sites-trails/orv-trail-fund

    To learn more about Recreation Sites and Trails B.C., visit:
    https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/sports-culture/recreation/camping-hiking/sites-trails

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: IAM Veterans Services Program Continues to Deliver Life-Changing Earned Benefits to Members and Families

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    The IAM Veterans Services Program continues to demonstrate its powerful impact in 2025, helping scores of IAM military veterans receive the benefits they have earned through their service and sacrifice.

    The program has already helped 57 veterans this year achieve increases in their overall disability ratings, resulting in a remarkable total increase of 1,590%. These victories translate into $70,989.69 in monthly compensation to IAM veterans, supporting not only the veterans but also 21 spouses and 41 children.

    Just as importantly, those veterans received more than $760,000 in backpay—a reflection of months or even years of unpaid benefits now finally in the hands of the people who served their country.

    Since the inception of the program, the IAM Veterans Services Program has assisted 316 veterans in increasing their disability ratings, achieving a staggering total increase of 9,610%. 

    In total, this amounts to more than $406,000 in monthly benefit increases, providing ongoing support to veterans and their 155 spouses and 259 children. The cumulative total of backpay recovered since the start of the program now stands at nearly $3.6 million.

    Among those who received assistance, 90 veterans have been deemed 100% permanent and total, a designation that provides the highest level of disability benefits. Additionally, the program has successfully navigated the complex VA appeals process, winning 97 Higher-Level Review appeals and representing members in three Board of Veterans Appeals hearings.

    “These numbers represent more than just a record of what the program has done on paper—they represent families who can breathe a little easier, veterans who are finally receiving just compensation and care for their service to our country, and a union that will never leave veterans behind,” said Evans.

    The IAM Veterans Services Program continues to offer hands-on, personalized assistance to IAM members who served in the military. Veterans needing help with disability claims, appeals, or navigating the VA system are encouraged to contact the program directly.

    For more information, or to request assistance, members can reach out to IAM Veterans Services.

    The post IAM Veterans Services Program Continues to Deliver Life-Changing Earned Benefits to Members and Families appeared first on IAM Union.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: IAM Union & Allies Advocate for American-Made Ship Production

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    On Tuesday, IAM Union leaders, a congressional delegation and local shipbuilders gathered at Boston Ship Repair, an IAM-represented repair yard in downtown Boston, to call attention to the need to reinvigorate America’s domestic shipbuilding and repair industry. In recent years, global shipping companies have overwhelmingly chosen to use cheap labor and materials to source vessels primarily from China. As a result, this strategically vital domestic industry along with its highly skilled workforce have suffered greatly. These leaders met in a call to action to reinvigorate domestic shipbuilding for the sake of U.S. economic and national security.

    The post IAM Union & Allies Advocate for American-Made Ship Production appeared first on IAM Union.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Billings Doctor Pleads Guilty to Charge Related to Prostitution

    Source: US FBI

    BILLINGS – A Billings man accused of using a cell phone to arrange for commercial sex admitted to a charge today, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.

    The defendant, Usman Hanif Khan, 52, pleaded guilty to use of a facility of interstate commerce to aid in racketeering. He faces up to five years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and 3 years of supervised release.

    U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided, and District Court Judge Susan P. Watters will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing will be set at a later time. Khan was released pending further proceedings.

    The government alleged in court documents that prior to April 9, 2023, Khan met a woman on a social media website for those interested in a commercial sex relationship. Then, on or about April 9, 2023, Khan communicated with the woman for the purpose of arranging a commercial sex date with Jane Doe, a minor. Khan and the woman communicated via text messenger and utilized cell phones to arrange the date and discussed, among other items, the particulars of the commercial sex date. On the evening of April 9, 2023, the woman transported Jane Doe to Khan’s residence for the purpose of a commercial sex date. Khan and Jane Doe engaged in a sex act, after which Khan contacted the woman to arrange transportation of Jane Doe and provided Jane Doe with money for the encounter.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Zeno Baucus is prosecuting the case. The FBI conducted the investigation.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.

    XXX

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Billings Doctor Pleads Guilty to Charge Related to Prostitution

    Source: US FBI

    BILLINGS – A Billings man accused of using a cell phone to arrange for commercial sex admitted to a charge today, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.

    The defendant, Usman Hanif Khan, 52, pleaded guilty to use of a facility of interstate commerce to aid in racketeering. He faces up to five years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and 3 years of supervised release.

    U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided, and District Court Judge Susan P. Watters will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing will be set at a later time. Khan was released pending further proceedings.

    The government alleged in court documents that prior to April 9, 2023, Khan met a woman on a social media website for those interested in a commercial sex relationship. Then, on or about April 9, 2023, Khan communicated with the woman for the purpose of arranging a commercial sex date with Jane Doe, a minor. Khan and the woman communicated via text messenger and utilized cell phones to arrange the date and discussed, among other items, the particulars of the commercial sex date. On the evening of April 9, 2023, the woman transported Jane Doe to Khan’s residence for the purpose of a commercial sex date. Khan and Jane Doe engaged in a sex act, after which Khan contacted the woman to arrange transportation of Jane Doe and provided Jane Doe with money for the encounter.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Zeno Baucus is prosecuting the case. The FBI conducted the investigation.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.

    XXX

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Seven charged following protest for Palestine Action

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Seven people have been charged following a protest in support of Palestine Action on Monday.

    Protesters gathered in Trafalgar Square after the Met imposed conditions preventing the protest taking place in the original proposed location in Parliament Square.

    While it began peacefully, there were a number of clashes between officers and people in the crowd, with 13 arrests made overall.

    Of those 13, seven have now been charged with one cautioned and the remainder either bailed or released under investigation to allow further enquiries to take place.

    The details of those charged are as follows:

    · Liam Mizrahi, 25 (12.02.2000) of no fixed address, was charged with a racially aggravated public order offence (Section 4a Public Order Act). He was remanded to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 24 June.

    · Eleanor Simmonds, 31 (03.10.93) of no fixed address, was charged with assaulting an emergency worker and was bailed to appear at Croydon Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 25 July.

    · Lavina Richards, 37 (15.07.87) of Elsdale Street, Hackney was charged with two counts of assaulting an emergency worker. She has been remanded to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, 25 June.

    · Bipasha Tahsin, 21 (03.11.03) of Pinchin Street, Tower Hamlets was charged with assaulting an emergency worker. She was bailed to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 8 July.

    · Matthew Holbrook, 59 (06.08.65) of Somerhill Road, Hove was charged with breaching conditions imposed under Section 14 of the Public Order Act. He was bailed to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 21 July.

    · Tom Jubert, 40 (18.09.84) of Chippendale Street, Hackney was charged with breaching conditions imposed under Section 14 of the Public Order Act. He was bailed to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 21 July.

    · Hafeza Choudhury, 28 (15.05.97) of Berkeley Path, Luton was charged with breaching conditions imposed under Section 14 of the Public Order Act. He was bailed to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 21 July.

    · A 31-year-old woman received a caution for assaulting an emergency worker.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Seven charged following protest for Palestine Action

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Seven people have been charged following a protest in support of Palestine Action on Monday.

    Protesters gathered in Trafalgar Square after the Met imposed conditions preventing the protest taking place in the original proposed location in Parliament Square.

    While it began peacefully, there were a number of clashes between officers and people in the crowd, with 13 arrests made overall.

    Of those 13, seven have now been charged with one cautioned and the remainder either bailed or released under investigation to allow further enquiries to take place.

    The details of those charged are as follows:

    · Liam Mizrahi, 25 (12.02.2000) of no fixed address, was charged with a racially aggravated public order offence (Section 4a Public Order Act). He was remanded to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 24 June.

    · Eleanor Simmonds, 31 (03.10.93) of no fixed address, was charged with assaulting an emergency worker and was bailed to appear at Croydon Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 25 July.

    · Lavina Richards, 37 (15.07.87) of Elsdale Street, Hackney was charged with two counts of assaulting an emergency worker. She has been remanded to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, 25 June.

    · Bipasha Tahsin, 21 (03.11.03) of Pinchin Street, Tower Hamlets was charged with assaulting an emergency worker. She was bailed to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 8 July.

    · Matthew Holbrook, 59 (06.08.65) of Somerhill Road, Hove was charged with breaching conditions imposed under Section 14 of the Public Order Act. He was bailed to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 21 July.

    · Tom Jubert, 40 (18.09.84) of Chippendale Street, Hackney was charged with breaching conditions imposed under Section 14 of the Public Order Act. He was bailed to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 21 July.

    · Hafeza Choudhury, 28 (15.05.97) of Berkeley Path, Luton was charged with breaching conditions imposed under Section 14 of the Public Order Act. He was bailed to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 21 July.

    · A 31-year-old woman received a caution for assaulting an emergency worker.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: President Trump Announces Appointments to the Homeland Security Advisory Council

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    President Donald J. Trump and Secretary Noem appointed new members to the Homeland Security Advisory Council (HSAC) and announced the date of the council’s first meeting.

    Formed on March 19, 2002, the HSAC leverages the experience, expertise, and national and global connections of its membership to provide the Secretary of Homeland Security with real-time, real-world and independent advice on homeland security operations.

    This new-look, America First HSAC will draw upon a deep well of public and private sector experience from homeland security experts committed to fulfilling President Trump’s agenda.

    The Homeland Security Advisory Council will hold its first meeting at DHS headquarters in Washington, D.C. on July 2nd, 2025.

    Appointed Members:

    • Henry McMaster, Governor, South Carolina, Chair
    • Joseph Gruters, State Senator, Florida, Vice Chair
    • Marc Andreessen, Co-Founder and General Partner, Andreessen Horowitz
    • David Chesnoff, Attorney, Chesnoff and Schonfeld.
    • Christopher “Chris” Cox, Founder, Bikers for Trump
    • Mark Dannels, Cochise County Sheriff, Arizona
    • Richard “Bo” Dietl, CEO and Founder, Beau Dietl & Associates
    • Matthew Flynn, Attorney, Steptoe. Former Deputy Assistant to the President. Former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense.
    • Rudolph W. Giuliani, Former Mayor, New York City
    • Harvey C. Jewett IV, Retired President of Super 8 Motels Inc., Retired President and Chief Operating Officer, Rivett Group LLC., President Great Plains Education Foundation, Inc.
    • Steve Kirby, Founding Partner, Bluestem Capital Company
    • Mark Levin, Broadcast News Analyst, The Mark Levin Show
    • Corey Lewandowski, Chief Advisor to the Secretary, Department of Homeland Security
    • Nicholas Luna, Assistant to the President and Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategic Implementation, The White House
    • George Lund, CEO and Chairman, Torch Hill Investment Partners
    • Edward McMullen Jr, Senior Policy Advisor, Adams and Reese LLP. Former Ambassador to Switzerland and Liechtenstein,
    • Georgette Mosbacher, Co-Chair, Three Seas Programming, Atlantic Council’s Europe Center, Former Ambassador to Poland
    • James “Jim” Pallotta, Managing Partner and Founder, The Raptor Group.
    • Omar Qudrat, CEO, Maden, Founder, Muslim Coalition for America, Major, U.S. Army Reserve
    • Stephen Sloan, Global Head of Private Market Secondaries, Portfolio Advisors and Co-Founder, Cogent Partners
    • Robert “Bob” Smith, Former U.S. Senator, New Hampshire
    • Alexei Woltornist, Co-Founder and President, ATHOS. Former Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs, Department of Homeland Security

    To learn more about the Homeland Security Advisory Council, including its previous taskings, reports, and recommendations, visit DHS.gov/Homeland-Security-Advisory-Council.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: President Trump Announces Appointments to the Homeland Security Advisory Council

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    President Donald J. Trump and Secretary Noem appointed new members to the Homeland Security Advisory Council (HSAC) and announced the date of the council’s first meeting.

    Formed on March 19, 2002, the HSAC leverages the experience, expertise, and national and global connections of its membership to provide the Secretary of Homeland Security with real-time, real-world and independent advice on homeland security operations.

    This new-look, America First HSAC will draw upon a deep well of public and private sector experience from homeland security experts committed to fulfilling President Trump’s agenda.

    The Homeland Security Advisory Council will hold its first meeting at DHS headquarters in Washington, D.C. on July 2nd, 2025.

    Appointed Members:

    • Henry McMaster, Governor, South Carolina, Chair
    • Joseph Gruters, State Senator, Florida, Vice Chair
    • Marc Andreessen, Co-Founder and General Partner, Andreessen Horowitz
    • David Chesnoff, Attorney, Chesnoff and Schonfeld.
    • Christopher “Chris” Cox, Founder, Bikers for Trump
    • Mark Dannels, Cochise County Sheriff, Arizona
    • Richard “Bo” Dietl, CEO and Founder, Beau Dietl & Associates
    • Matthew Flynn, Attorney, Steptoe. Former Deputy Assistant to the President. Former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense.
    • Rudolph W. Giuliani, Former Mayor, New York City
    • Harvey C. Jewett IV, Retired President of Super 8 Motels Inc., Retired President and Chief Operating Officer, Rivett Group LLC., President Great Plains Education Foundation, Inc.
    • Steve Kirby, Founding Partner, Bluestem Capital Company
    • Mark Levin, Broadcast News Analyst, The Mark Levin Show
    • Corey Lewandowski, Chief Advisor to the Secretary, Department of Homeland Security
    • Nicholas Luna, Assistant to the President and Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategic Implementation, The White House
    • George Lund, CEO and Chairman, Torch Hill Investment Partners
    • Edward McMullen Jr, Senior Policy Advisor, Adams and Reese LLP. Former Ambassador to Switzerland and Liechtenstein,
    • Georgette Mosbacher, Co-Chair, Three Seas Programming, Atlantic Council’s Europe Center, Former Ambassador to Poland
    • James “Jim” Pallotta, Managing Partner and Founder, The Raptor Group.
    • Omar Qudrat, CEO, Maden, Founder, Muslim Coalition for America, Major, U.S. Army Reserve
    • Stephen Sloan, Global Head of Private Market Secondaries, Portfolio Advisors and Co-Founder, Cogent Partners
    • Robert “Bob” Smith, Former U.S. Senator, New Hampshire
    • Alexei Woltornist, Co-Founder and President, ATHOS. Former Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs, Department of Homeland Security

    To learn more about the Homeland Security Advisory Council, including its previous taskings, reports, and recommendations, visit DHS.gov/Homeland-Security-Advisory-Council.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • ENG vs IND, 1st Test: Ben Duckett’s blazing 149 powers England to exhilarating win over India

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A superb century from Ben Duckett helped steer England to a sensational five-wicket win in the first test against India after a thrilling day five on Tuesday, the hosts reaching a target of 371 — the 10th highest successful run chase in test history.

    Having turned the match on its head at Headingley after India had been 430-3 in their first innings, England appeared to be cruising to a dramatic win as openers Duckett and Zak Crawley eased their side to lunch on 117-0 in their second innings.

    Duckett continued his imperious form with another four through the covers to reach his sixth test hundred, before Crawley fell for 65, their 188-run partnership the second highest England opening fourth-innings stand in tests.

    Two wickets in two balls — Duckett and Harry Brook — dragged India back into the enthralling contest and when Ben Stokes fell for 33 attempting an ambitious reverse sweep, England’s hopes of victory lay precariously in the balance.

    Joe Root’s unbeaten 53 calmed the nerves around his home ground, with the former skipper and Jamie Smith, who hit a six to seal victory, seeing England home as India, having scored five centuries in the match, somehow contrived to start the five-test series in defeat.

    -REUTERS

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Stay secure with Windows 11, Copilot+ PCs and Windows 365 before support ends for Windows 10

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Stay secure with Windows 11, Copilot+ PCs and Windows 365 before support ends for Windows 10

    When we launched Windows in 1985, we set out to revolutionize computing—guided by the belief that technology should be accessible, intuitive and powerful for everyone. Nearly 40 years later, that same vision continues to drive us forward. Today, Windows is the most widely used operating system, powering over a billion monthly active devices through an open and flexible platform that connects people, ideas and innovations on the Windows PCs they use every day around the world.

    Looking ahead, 2025 marks an important milestone for Windows. We saw the spirit of innovation on full display at CES in January, as the Windows ecosystem came together to unveil breakthrough technologies and introduce new Windows 11 and Copilot+ PCs. And that momentum is only growing, as new silicon technology, thoughtful hardware designs and on-device AI experiences give people more of a reason to upgrade their Windows PC. With AI becoming a more natural and helpful part of everyday life, 2025 continues to emerge as the year of the Windows 11 PC refresh.

    From enhanced productivity and streamlined IT workflows to AI-driven innovation, these advancements are redefining what people expect from their devices—not just for today, but for the future. Whether you’re using a Copilot+ PC or Windows 365 in the cloud, we want you to experience the best of Windows 11, starting with security at the core. We also recognize that transitions to new PCs take careful planning. With Windows 10 support coming to an end in October, we’re here to provide information and resources to help you choose the path that works best for you—whether that’s exploring the next generation of Windows, staying on your current PC with the Extended Security Program (ESU) or moving to a cloud-based solution.

    Support for Windows 10 ends in October—Here’s what you need to know

    As technology evolves, phasing out older operating systems and upgrading to newer versions is a natural part of the lifecycle—one that helps ensure you have the latest security features and innovations. Windows 10 launched in July 2015, and after nearly a decade, support will end on Oct. 14, 2025.

    Here’s what that means:

    • Microsoft will no longer provide security and feature updates and technical support for Windows 10 PCs. While these devices will continue to function, they will no longer receive regular security updates, making them more vulnerable to cyber threats, such as malware and viruses.
    • Companies and organizations that operate Windows 10 may find it challenging to maintain regulatory compliance with unsupported software.
    • Applications running on Windows 10 may no longer be supported, as the platform is no longer receiving feature updates. As a result, some apps may experience decreased functionality.
    • Microsoft 365 Appsi running on personal and commercial Windows 10 PCs will continue receiving security updates until Oct. 10, 2028, and feature updates through August 2026.ii These updates are intended to help ease customers’ transition to Windows 11 and will be delivered through standard update channels. These updates do not include technical support.
    • Microsoft will continue to provide Security Intelligence Updates for Microsoft Defender Antivirus on Windows 10 through October 2028.

    If you’re using Windows 10 today, checking if your PC can upgrade to Windows 11 is simple. Just click the Start button, then go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. You can also use the PC Health Check app to see if your device meets the Windows 11 system requirements, or check with your organization’s IT team for support.

    We understand that your PC holds what’s important to you, from years of valuable files to cherished photos, and the personal settings that make it yours. To help make your move to a Windows 11 PC as simple and secure as possible, we recommend using Windows Backup—built right into Windows 10. It’s an easy way to help you safely and securely transfer your data, personal files, and most settings and applications, so everything’s ready for you the moment you sign in.

    Explore what’s next with Windows 11

    Security is at the heart of Windows 11. As part of Microsoft’s Secure Future Initiative (SFI), we’re constantly improving Windows security to help keep you protected—whether you’re using a personal laptop or managing a fleet of devices at work. Windows 11 is secure by design and by default, with layers of defense enabled on day one to enhance your protection without the need to first configure settings.

    Windows 11 builds on the familiar Windows experience you know and trust, while also offering a more modern and secure computing experience. It delivers faster performance, simpler navigation and the latest features and experiences. It’s not just a device designed for today, it’s built for tomorrow.

    • Security first. Windows 11 is the most secure operating system we’ve ever built, and offers advanced security like TPM 2.0, virtualization-based security and Smart App Control—all enabled by default. New Windows 11 PCs have seen a reported 62% drop in security incidents and a 3x reported reduction in firmware attacksiii.
    • Faster and more efficient. Windows 11 continues to improve Windows update fundamentals, delivering faster monthly updates and smaller feature update downloads. This results in quicker response time when in sleep mode, faster web browsing and overall improved performance. In fact, Windows 11 PCs are up to 2.3x faster than Windows 10 PCsiv.
    • Familiar yet modern user experience. Windows 11 maintains familiar user experiences from Windows 10 but introduces a more modern and streamlined UI design with better multitasking features, like Snap Layouts and multiple desktops. Key elements like the Start menu and taskbar offer a cleaner look on Windows 11, while keeping navigation intuitive and user-friendly.
    • Built-in accessibility features. Windows 11 has new and improved accessibility features, building on the tools from Windows 10. New to Windows 11, Focus Sessions help users needing fewer distractions stay focused, live captions can transcribe audio from any app or in-person conversations through the mic, and Voice Access lets you control your device and dictate text using your voice—compared to basic speech recognition on Windows 10. Windows 11 also has improved contrast themes, better screen magnification and more natural Narrator voices.
    • Copilot on Windows 11. As Copilot becomes more optimized for Windows, it stands out as your go-to AI companion—ready when you need it. With Copilot Vision on Windowsv, Copilot acts as a second set of eyes, analyzing content on your screen in real time, and talking to you about it. And with the new Highlights feature, Copilot doesn’t just tell you what to do, it can show you.
    • Exclusive AI experiences at your fingertips. Windows 11 Copilot+ PCs unlock exclusive AI-powered experiences. Features such as Recall (preview), Click to Do (preview) and improved Windows search, help you be more efficient and find information effortlessly, while enhanced experiences such as Cocreator in Paint and Restyle in Photos help you tap into new creative possibilities with built-in securityvi.
    • Designed for any work environment and every employee. Windows 11 offers features that enhance multitasking and enable an estimated 50% faster workflows compared to Windows 10. Employees benefit from AI at their fingertips, faster performance and security enabled by default – with an estimated 250% return on investmentvii.
    • More choice, more flexibility, more performance. Whether for personal use, frontline workers or everyone in between, an extensive portfolio of Windows 11 and Copilot+ PCs from partners—like Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, Lenovo, Samsung and Surface—is designed to fit your needs.

    Windows 10 Extended Security Updates: A bridge to your Windows 11 experience 

    We understand that moving to a new PC can take time, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. The Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) program is designed to help keep your Windows 10 PC protected after support ends on Oct. 14, 2025. ESU delivers monthly critical and important security updates to help you stay secure during the transition. However, it’s not meant to be a long-term solution—it doesn’t include new features, non-security updates, design change requests or technical support.

    As we shared last October, for the first time ever, you can enroll your personal Windows 10 PC in the ESU program and receive critical and important monthly security updates for one year after support ends in October. Today, we’re introducing additional free enrollment options and the simple steps to get started.

    Extended Security Updates for Windows 10:

    • For individuals: An enrollment wizard will be available through notifications and in Settings, making it easy to enroll in ESU directly from your personal Windows 10 PC. Through the enrollment wizard, you’ll be able to choose from three options:
      • Use Windows Backup to sync your settings to the cloud—at no additional cost..
      • Redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points—at no additional cost..
      • Pay $30 USD (local pricing may vary).

    Once you select an option and follow the on-screen steps, your PC will automatically be enrolled. ESU coverage for personal devices runs from Oct. 15, 2025, through Oct. 13, 2026. Starting today, the enrollment wizard is available in the Windows Insider Program and will begin rolling out as an option to Windows 10 customers in July, with broad availability expected by mid-Augustxiii.

    • For commercial organizations: Organizations can subscribe to ESU for $61 USD per device to receive monthly critical and important security updates for one year. The subscription can be renewed annually for up to three years, with the cost increasing each yearix. Enrollment is available today through the Microsoft Volume Licensing Program and will be offered by Cloud Service Providers starting Sept. 1.
    • For cloud and virtual environments: Windows 10 devices accessing Windows 11 Cloud PCs through Windows 365 or Virtual Machines are entitled to ESU at no additional cost and will automatically receive security updates with no extra steps required.

    Learn more here: Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows 10 | Microsoft Learn.

    Move to Windows 11 in the cloud with Windows 365

    Windows 365 gives organizations another way to move to Windows 11 without needing to replace every device right away. It’s a cost-effective and more sustainable alternative, while still providing enhanced security and operational efficiency. This cloud-based solution delivers a secure Windows 11 experience to any device through a Cloud PC, so your team can work from almost anywhere.

    To help make the transition easier, new customers can get 20% off on any Windows 365 plan for the first 12 months. Visit Windows 365 today to learn about this offerx.

    Windows ecosystem: A choice for everyone

    Every person and organization has different needs, whether that’s a portable device to stay connected on the go or a more powerful PC built for productivity and different workloads. Working closely with our trusted partners, there are a range of choices to support how you live, work and create.

    Here are a few Copilot+ PCs and Windows 11 devices from trusted partners like Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, Lenovo, Samsung and Surface—with options designed for mobility, performance, security and AI-powered experiences.

    • Acer: Stay connected everywhere with the TravelMate P6 14 AI, a Copilot+ PC and high-performance business laptop built for mobile work and life.
    • ASUS: The ASUS Zenbook A14 Copilot+ PC delivers exclusive AI experiences and multi-working-day battery life in a sleek, minimalist design, while the ASUS ExpertBook P5 is an AI powerhouse in an aluminum body and sleek design for modern and mobile professionals.
    • Dell: Unleash your creativity with the Dell 16 Plus Laptop, featuring a large screen and Intel Arc graphics—ideal for students and creators. Or tackle work from anywhere on the Dell Pro 14 Premium, the lightest and quietest 14″ Copilot+ PC in the Dell Pro family.
    • HP: The HP OmniBook X Flip 16 inch 2-in-1 Laptop combines speed and performance for creative work and entertainment, while the HP EliteBook 8 G1i 14 inch delivers enterprise-grade security, AI-powered experiences and a portable design—perfect for IT professionals.
    • Lenovo: Create without limits with the super thin and light Yoga Slim 7i Aura Edition, offering exclusive Copilot+ PC experiences, or boost productivity with Lenovo’s new portfolio of 14ʺ and 15ʺ ThinkPad X9 Series laptops, designed for the tech-savvy professionals.
    • Samsung: The Galaxy Book5 Pro, a Copilot+ PC, is a powerful Windows 11 laptop built for multitasking, creative work and running your favorite apps—perfect for work and play. The Galaxy Book4 Edge is an ultra-thin, Copilot+ PC made for life on the go, with a brilliant display and long-lasting battery.
    • Surface Copilot+ PCs combine powerful performance, all-day battery life and breakthrough AI experiences in sleek designs with the all-new 13-inch Surface Laptop and the 12-inch Surface Pro with a flexible 2-in-1 design and a built-in kickstand. For organizations, Surface for Business Copilot+ PCs offer added efficiency with the latest Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2).

    This summer is a good time to explore your options. Retailers like Microsoft Store, Amazon, Best Buy, Costco and more are offering deals now through September.

    When you’re ready to purchase, trade-in and recycling programs are available through our many trusted partners, including Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, Lenovo, Samsung and global retailers like Best Buy, Boulanger, Costco, Currys, Elkjøp, Fnac, Harvey Norman, JB Hi-Fi, MediaMarkt & SATURN, officeworks, Sharaf DG and Walmart.

    For business customers, similar programs are offered through resellers like Bechtle, CDW, ComputaCenter, Connection, SHI and more. You can also explore Microsoft Store’s online trade-in program or find a convenient local recycling option near you.

    Moving forward to Windows 11—Together 

    Windows is a part of your everyday life, and we want to help keep that experience smooth, secure and up to date.

    If you’re unsure where to start, the first step is to check if your Windows 10 PC is eligible for a free upgrade to Windows 11. If it is, you can follow a few simple steps to install the upgrade—don’t forget to use Windows Backup to easily save your files and settings before making the switch.

    If your PC isn’t eligible or if you need more time—there are options. No matter where you are in your journey—whether it’s staying on your current PC with ESU, upgrading to Windows 11 or moving to Windows 365—we’re here to support you every step of the way.

    Learn more about how to get ahead of Windows 10 end of support and take the next steps: How to prepare for Windows 10 end of support by moving to Windows 11 today | Windows Experience Blog

    Endnotes

    i This includes Microsoft 365 Apps for enterprise, Microsoft 365 Apps for business, and the Microsoft 365 desktop apps included in other commercial and consumer suites such as Microsoft 365 E3, Microsoft 365 Business Standard, and Microsoft 365 Family.

     ii The final feature update will ship in August 2026 for customers on Current Channel, including all consumer customers. Customers on the Monthly and Semi-Annual Enterprise Channels will receive their final feature updates later – in October 2026 and January 2027, respectively. 

    iii Windows 11 Survey Report. Techaisle LLC, September 2024. Commissioned by Microsoft. Windows 11 results are in comparison with Windows 10 devices.

    iv Based on Geekbench 6 Multi-Core benchmark. See aka.ms/w11claims. 

    v Available in the US and coming to more non-European countries soon. 

    vi Copilot+ PC experiences vary by device and market and may require updates continuing to roll out through 2025; timing varies. See aka.ms/copilotpluspcs  

    vii Microsoft-commissioned study delivered by Forrester Consulting: “The Total Economic Impact of Windows 11 Pro Devices”, December 2022. Note, quantified benefits reflect results over three years combined into a single composite organization that generates $1 billion in annual revenue, has 2,000 employees, refreshes hardware on a four-year cycle and migrates the entirety of its workforce to Windows 11 devices. 

    viii Retail availability starts with the July 2025 non-security preview update via controlled feature rollout. To be among the first to experience new features, navigate to Settings > Windows Update, and turn on “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available”.  

    ix Markets do not include Russia, Belarus, Cuba, Iran, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Sudan, and Syria. 

    x This offer runs from May 1 to Oct. 31, 2025, and is for customers not currently subscribing to Windows 365. Transactions must be processed through Microsoft’s operations center before 11:00 PM Pacific Time on October 31, 2025. This offer is non-transferable and cannot be combined with any other offer or discount on Windows 365. This offer is available only once per customer. The discount price will be in effect for the duration of the purchase commitment. Purchases made prior to the effective date of the offer are not eligible. Taxes, if any, are the sole responsibility of the recipient. Microsoft reserves the right to discontinue this promotion, and to modify these policies and the promotion’s terms and conditions at any time.  

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese doctor Zhang Junqiao’s heroic act demonstrates deep friendship between China and Africa – 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 24 (Xinhua) — The heroic act of Chinese doctor Zhang Junqiao demonstrates the deep friendship between China and Africa and the extraordinary devotion, dedication, love and fighting spirit of Chinese medical teams, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Tuesday.

    The head of the 27th Chinese medical team in Tanzania, anesthesiologist Zhang Junqiao, died on June 15 while rescuing a drowning woman off the coast of Dar es Salaam.

    “We express our sincere condolences to Zhang Junqiao’s family and mourn the loss of an outstanding member of China’s medical teams providing aid to Africa,” the diplomat said.

    Guo Jiakun noted that it has been 62 years since China sent its first medical team to Africa in 1963, and nearly 57 years since China began sending medical teams to Tanzania.

    The kind and highly skilled members of the Chinese medical teams have treated and saved many local residents and trained local teams, Guo Jiakun said, adding that the work of the Chinese medical teams has made a great contribution to strengthening the friendship between China and African countries.

    “The people of China and Africa will never forget this. History will not forget this either,” the official representative of the Chinese Foreign Ministry summed up. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The first plenary session of the 16th session of the Standing Committee of the 14th NPC was held in Beijing

    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 24 (Xinhua) — The first plenary meeting of the 16th session of the Standing Committee of the 14th National People’s Congress (NPC) of China was held in the Chinese capital on Tuesday, where various bills and reports were reviewed.

    The meeting was chaired by Zhao Leji, Chairman of the 14th NPC Standing Committee.

    The deputies reviewed draft laws on social assistance, on medical care, on responding to public health emergencies, and on propaganda and education in the area of the rule of law.

    In addition, draft amendments to the Law on Punishment for Disorderly Conduct, the Law on Combating Unfair Competition, the Law on Maritime Commerce, the Law on Fisheries, the Law on Civil Aviation, and the Law on Food Security were considered.

    Legislators considered a proposal to ratify the Convention on the Establishment of the International Mediation Organization.

    The financial report on the execution of the central government budget for 2024, the audit report on the execution of the central government budget and other budget revenues and expenditures for 2024, reports on the development of productive forces of a new quality, on the powers of individual deputies and on personnel changes were also reviewed. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: 8 people killed, 84 injured as a result of missile strike on central Ukraine – head of Dnipropetrovsk OVA

    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

    KYIV, June 24 (Xinhua) — At least eight people were killed and 84 others were wounded on Tuesday in a Russian missile strike on Ukraine’s fourth-largest city of Dnipro, located in the central Dnipropetrovsk region, the head of the Dnipropetrovsk Regional Military Administration (OVA) Serhiy Lysak said on Telegram.

    According to him, 62 victims were hospitalized, seven of them are in serious condition.

    S. Lysak added that due to the Russian attack in Dnepr, civilian infrastructure was damaged, including a dormitory, a gymnasium and an administrative building, and a train was also damaged.

    In addition, the head of the OVA reported that the Russian Federation attacked the city of Samara, which is located approximately 26 km from the Dnieper. There, according to S. Lysak, two people were killed and 11 more were injured. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement by Prime Minister Carney on la Fête nationale du Québec

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    “I wish all Québecers a happy Fête nationale. This day is an opportunity to celebrate Québec’s culture and heritage, the vitality of the French language, and the rich history of la Belle Province.

    “Canada’s new government will strengthen and modernize our public broadcaster, CBC/Radio-Canada, to ensure rich and varied programming in French and to showcase voices from Québec and across the country.

    “Today, I invite all Canadians to recognize Québec’s essential contribution to our country’s collective identity.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: $13.7 Million Investment in Hudson Valley Highways

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced that work has begun on a pair of infrastructure projects that will improve travel along two vital highways in the Hudson Valley. The two projects represent a $13.7 million investment that will resurface key stretches of State Route 17 in Orange County and State Route 52 in Putnam County, enhancing the resiliency of both roadways and creating a more comfortable experience for travelers. Both projects are expected to be completed this fall and are part of Governor Hochul’s unwavering commitment to build back New York State’s infrastructure to connect communities, grow our economy and improve quality of life.

    “We are putting the pedal to the metal in our drive to give New Yorkers the modern and dependable transportation network they deserve,” Governor Hochul said. “Hudson Valley travelers know all too well the difference that quality roads can make in their daily lives and these two projects will help restore two of the region’s key roadways, providing smoother commutes and fewer hassles.”

    The work includes a $9.7 million project that will resurface a five-mile stretch of State Route 17 between State Route 302 and the Sullivan County line in the Town of Wallkill, Orange County. State Route 17 provides a critical connection between the lower Hudson Valley and the many commercial and recreational destinations in the Southern Tier and the Catskills.

    Additionally, a $4 million project will resurface a three-mile stretch of State Route 52, between State Route 311 and the Dutchess County line in the Town of Kent, Putnam County. The roadway provides an important connection to Interstate 84 for local residents and businesses.

    Both projects feature milling and resurfacing of the existing pavement with a warm-mix fiber-reinforced asphalt overlay that’s longer-lasting, more durable and minimizes cracking. Grooved inlaid striping with reflective epoxy paint will also be added to increase the visibility of pavement markings during storms. Additionally, traffic signals will be upgraded, drainage improvements will be included, and curb ramps, where present, will be made compliant with current Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidance.

    In order to minimize impacts to the traveling public, most work will be conducted during nighttime hours with single lane closures during paving operations.

    New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “In projects big and small, from Buffalo to Montauk, New York State is making unprecedented progress toward building a 21st century transportation network that brings people together and provides new opportunities for economic growth and prosperity. These two projects in the Hudson Valley will improve travel on two of the region’s most important highways, making it easier for people and goods to get where they need to go safely and efficiently.”

    State Senator Peter Harckham said, “This important repair and updating of Route 52 from Route 311 to the Dutchess County line, a well-traveled stretch of roadway, will significantly improve safety, reduce vehicle wear and tear, and support local economic activity. By enhancing a key transportation corridor in our region with a newly conditioned and paved surface, we will ensure the viability of this vital economic lifeline through Putnam County.”

    Assemblymember Paula Kay said, “This stretch of highway has long been in need of transformative change. This project will not only save local commuters time and money but also improve safety for everyone on the road. We’ll undoubtedly see more travelers experiencing the beauty of our upstate communities and supporting our parks and local businesses. I’m thrilled that Governor Hochul shares my vision for strengthening upstate infrastructure, and I look forward to the lasting benefits this investment will bring for years to come.”

    Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne said, “This investment will ensure safer and more resilient roadways for our residents and visitors. I personally presented before the Legislature’s Joint Budget Hearing on Transportation the past two years, where we highlighted numerous needs, including Route 52 as it is one of the county’s most traversed roadways. I thank all our partners in the State government for following through to get this done. I know it means a lot to our residents. This project will help us to build stronger communities and foster economic growth.”

    About the Department of Transportation
    It is the mission of the New York State Department of Transportation to provide a safe, reliable, equitable, and resilient transportation system that connects communities, enhances quality of life, protects the environment, and supports the economic well-being of New York State.

    Lives are on the line; slow down and move over for highway workers!

    For more information, find them on Facebook, follow us on X or Instagram, or visit their website. For up-to-date travel information, call 511, visit www.511NY.org or download the free 511NY mobile app.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: El Salvadoran Man Convicted of Fentanyl Trafficking, Firearms Offenses, and Illegal Entry

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

    SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – An El Salvadoran national has been found guilty in federal court of trafficking fentanyl, illegally possessing firearms, and unlawful entry to the United States.

    Jose Navarrete-Hernandez, 42, was found guilty of one count each of possessing fentanyl with the intent to distribute, possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime, possessing a firearm as an illegal alien, possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number, and illegal entry into the United States. United States District Judge M. Douglas Harpool issued a verdict Monday, June 23, 2025, following a one-day bench trial on May 12, 2025.

    On May 11, 2023, officers with the Carthage, Mo., Police Department conducted a traffic stop on a gray Ford F-250 with an expired Texas license plate driven by Navarrete-Hernandez. After confirming that Navarrete-Hernandez did not have a valid driver’s license, the officers searched Navarrete-Hernandez and the F-250.

    Officers found in the truck a black backpack containing two drug scales, two glass pipes with white powdery residue, approximately 145 fentanyl pills, a Heritage Rough Rider revolver, ammunition, and a forged social security card. Officers also found a Raven P-25 pistol with an obliterated serial number in the truck.  At the time, Navarrete-Hernandez was not a citizen or national of the United States and had entered the United States at a place other than a designated port of entry.

    Under federal statutes, Navarrete-Hernandez is subject to a sentence of up to Life in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Casey Clark and Patrick Carney. It was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Missouri State Highway Patrol; and the Carthage, Mo., Police Department.

    Operation Take Back America

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

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Second Sentencing in the Burglary of Dozens of Firearms from a Maryland Pawn Shop

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

                WASHINGTON – Niquan Odumn, 23, of the District of Columbia, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court to 48 months in federal prison for his role in the December 2023 burglary of a Maryland pawn shop that netted dozens of firearms.

                The sentencing was announced by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro, Special Agent in Charge Anthony Spotswood of the Washington Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department

                Odumn, aka “Stickz,” pleaded guilty on March 6 to conspiracy to commit theft from a firearms licensee and to possession of stolen firearms. In addition to the sentencing, U.S. District Court Judge Amy Berman Jackson ordered three years of supervised release.

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

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

                Odumn was arrested on March 25, 2024, and has been detained since.

                Juwon Markel Anderson, 22, of the District of Columbia, was sentenced June 20 to 84 months in prison for his role in the burglary and for his subsequent attempt to sell several of the stolen guns.

                Co-defendant Tyjuan McNeal, 27, is scheduled to be sentenced July 1 for conspiracy to commit firearms trafficking. Co-defendant Vincent Lee Alston, 23, pleaded guilty March 6, 2025, to one count of conspiracy to commit firearms trafficking. And co-defendant Cy’juan Hemsley, who pleaded guilty on May 7, 2025, to conspiracy to commit theft from a firearms licensee and to possession of stolen firearms.

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

    23cr452 

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