NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI Security: Prominent Los Angeles Tattoo Artist Pleads Guilty to Federal Tax Charge

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LOS ANGELES – A prominent tattoo artist, once identified in the press as “Hollywood’s Go-To Tattoo Artist,” pleaded guilty today to filing false tax returns through which he evaded the payment of more than $641,000 in federal income tax.

    Daniel Joseph Winter, 43, who uses the moniker “winterstone,” pleaded guilty to one count of subscription to a false tax return.

    Winter operated his tattoo business in the Los Angeles area, New York and Vancouver, Canada, specializing in single-needle fine-line tattoos and catering to high-end clients. His tattoos were expensive, and he earned substantial income from his work as a tattoo artist and related endeavors.

    According to his plea agreement, Winter earned at least $1.7 million from his tattoo business from 2021 to 2023. But he declared no wages, salaries or tip income on the tax returns he signed and filed with the IRS. For 2021, he reported taxable income of negative $3,442 instead of his actual taxable income of $501,710; for 2022, he reported taxable income of $1,105 instead of his actual taxable income of $347,159; and for 2023, he reported income of $14,852, instead of his actual taxable income of $850,447.

    By underreporting his actual income in this way, Winter reduced the taxes he appeared to owe by more than $641,000. At today’s hearing, Winter presented a cashier’s check in the amount of $641,959 to the court to pay the taxes he owed due to the underreporting of his income for 2021 through 2023. 

    Winter also admitted in court today that he knew he was required to report all his income but willfully lied about it on his tax returns. He accepted payment for his tattoo services almost exclusively in cash, making it harder for the IRS to determine his true income. 

    United States District Judge Otis D. Wright II scheduled an August 11 sentencing hearing, at which time Winter will face a statutory maximum sentence of three years in federal prison.

    Assistant United States Attorney Ranee Katzenstein of the Criminal Appeals Section is prosecuting this case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Memphis Woman Sentenced to Ten Years in Federal Prison for Identity Theft and Bank Fraud

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Memphis, TN – Patricia Johnson, 47, has been sentenced to a total of 120 months in federal prison for committing identity theft and bank fraud, as well as violating the terms of her supervised release.  Reagan Fondren, Acting United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentence today.

    According to evidence presented in court, on numerous occasions between May and June 2022 and in multiple locations in West Tennessee, Johnson impersonated other persons named “Patricia Johnson” who had existing bank accounts or who were authorized signees of accounts.  Johnson obtained the victims’ bank account numbers and other personal information and then went to branches of the victims’ banking institutions, presented their personal identifying information, and made cash withdrawals from the victims’ bank accounts.  Johnson fraudulently obtained over $50,000.00 through this scheme.

    Prior to her participation in this identity theft scheme, Johnson had an extensive criminal history spanning thirty years.  This history included numerous felony convictions for theft and fraud and several prior federal identity theft convictions.

    On May 16, 2024, Johnson pled guilty to a three-count information in the Western District of Tennessee.  The information included one count of bank fraud and two counts of aggravated identity theft.  On February 25, 2025, Senior United States District Court Judge John T. Fowlkes, Jr. sentenced Johnson to 106 months in federal prison on the bank fraud and aggravated identity theft charges and 14 months’ imprisonment on her violation of supervised release from a previous case.  She was sentenced to five years of supervised release to follow.  There is no parole in the federal system.

    This case was investigated by the United States Secret Service.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Fondren thanked Assistant United States Attorney Stephen Hall who prosecuted this case on behalf of the government and the law enforcement partners who investigated this case.

    ###

    For more information, please contact the Media Relations Team at USATNW.Media@usdoj.gov. Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office on Facebook or on X at @WDTNNews for office news and updates.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Cornyn Previews President Trump’s Joint Address, Highlights Border Wins

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn
    WASHINGTON – Today on the floor, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) previewed President Trump’s Joint Address to Congress and highlighted his administration’s successful efforts to reduce illegal immigration in just six weeks after four years of failure under Joe Biden. Excerpts of Sen. Cornyn’s remarks are below, and video can be found here.
    “I look forward to attending the President’s address, and I am happy to welcome my friend, Abraham George, who will join me as a guest tonight.”
    “I’m looking forward to hearing the President discuss tonight the incredible strides his administration has made in just about six weeks since his inauguration.”
    “Nowhere is that success more apparent than when it comes to border security. After four years of record highs, CBP is now facing record lows.”
    “As soon as President Trump was elected, even before he took office, the migrant flows began to subside—that’s called deterrence.”
    “When President Trump actually took office, apprehensions fell by a staggering 85 percent compared to the same period in 2024.”
    “One of the most important consequences of President Trump’s election on November the 5th  was we are now re-establishing border security, and the people of this great country are safer for it.”
    “Migrants know that a Trump administration means our laws will be enforced.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: PHOTO: Cornyn Welcomes Chairman George as Guest for Trump Address

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) today welcomed Republican Party of Texas Chairman Abraham George to Washington D.C., as his guest for President Trump’s Joint Address to Congress this evening. They discussed President Trump’s historic border security efforts and Sen. Cornyn’s fight to reimburse the State of Texas for costs associated with Operation Lone Star, as well as working together to help President Trump enact his America First agenda. See photo below.

    This image is in the public domain, but those wishing to do so may credit the Office of U.S. Senator John Cornyn.
    Senator John Cornyn, a Republican from Texas, is a member of the Senate Finance, Judiciary, Intelligence, Foreign Relations, and Budget Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Minority Leader Sen. Harold Jones II to Hold Press Conference on Legislation to Ban DEI from Georgia Schools

    Source: US State of Georgia

    ATLANTA (March 4, 2025) — On Wednesday, March 5, Senate Minority Leader Sen. Harold Jones II (D–Augusta) will hold a press conference with the NAACP Defense Legal Fund, the Georgia State Conference of NAACP, the Urban League of Greater Atlanta, the ACLU of Georgia and the League of Women Voters on Senate Bill 120. SB 120 would prevent public schools, local education agencies and public postsecondary institutions from promoting, supporting, or maintaining programs or activities that advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion.  

    EVENT DETAILS:                      

    • Date: Wednesday, March 5, 2025
    • Time: 11:15 a.m.
    • Where: Georgia State Capitol, South Steps, 206 Washington St SW, Atlanta, GA, 30334
    • This Event is Open to the Public.

    MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES:

    We kindly request that members of the media confirm their attendance in advance by contacting Jantz Womack at SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.

    # # # #

    Sen. Harold V. Jones II serves as the Democratic Leader. He represents the 22nd Senate District, which includes portions of Richmond County. He may be reached at 404.656.0036 or via email at harold.jones@senate.ga.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James Announces Conviction and Sentencing of Father and Daughter Who Stole Over $230,000 from an Elderly New Yorker

    Source: US State of New York

    EW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James today announced the conviction and sentencing of Frank Whittaker, 56, of Kingston, NY, and his daughter Christine Ellsworth, 39, of Accord, NY, for stealing more than $230,000 from a vulnerable elderly victim in Ulster County. Whittaker and Ellsworth gained the trust of the elderly victim by providing lawn maintenance and assisting with household tasks, and eventually gained access to the then 92-year-old’s checkbook and finances. Whittaker had himself appointed as a Power of Attorney (POA) over the elderly victim’s finances and from July 2021 through August 2022, Whittaker and Ellsworth stole over $230,000 by writing themselves checks and illegally transferring funds from the victim’s bank and investment accounts into an account in Whittaker’s name. Whittaker was sentenced today to five years of probation and must pay restitution to the elderly victim. Ellsworth was sentenced today to three years of probation during which she is prohibited from working with the elderly.  

    “Scamming vulnerable seniors out of their savings that took a lifetime of hard work to earn is heartless,” said Attorney General James. “Frank Whittaker and Christine Ellsworth maliciously gained the trust of an innocent, elderly woman and stole her life savings in order to treat themselves to a new car and visits to restaurants and casinos. I thank the New York State Police and our partners in law enforcement for their continued assistance in this investigation. Anyone who attempts to defraud New Yorkers to line their own pockets will be brought to justice.”

    “I want to thank the Attorney General’s Office for their strong partnership that has led to the sentencing of these two individuals and their dishonest act,” said New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James. “This joint investigation found that Mr. Whittaker and Ms. Ellsworth preyed on a vulnerable victim who entrusted them to provide care for her, but instead chose to financially profit off her situation. The New York State Police will continue to put an end to these crimes and ensure innocent victims will not be taken advantage of.”

    Beginning in 2021, Whittaker and Ellsworth gained the trust of the victim, who needed assistance caring for herself and her home. Whittaker convinced the victim to grant him POA over her affairs and added himself as the POA on multiple bank and annuity accounts belonging to the victim, with Ellsworth named as the successor POA. Though he had POA, Whittaker was not legally allowed to spend the victim’s money for his and his daughter’s personal benefit. 

    Over the next year, Whittaker and Ellsworth stole over $230,000 from the victim and used the stolen funds to purchase a new 2021 GMC Sierra pickup truck costing $57,500, and also spent thousands of dollars at local restaurants and stores, including Walmart, a jeweler, and florists, among other personal expenses. They also made numerous cash withdrawals, including at ATMs located in Turning Stone Casino and Resort in Verona, and the Saratoga Casino Hotel in Saratoga Springs.

    In August 2024, Whittaker and Ellsworth were charged by an Ulster County Grand Jury with Grand Larceny in the Second Degree (a Class C felony). Simultaneous with their arrests, the Office of the Attorney General executed a search warrant to seize the remaining funds in Whittaker’s bank account, recovering over $92,000 of the victim’s stolen money.

    On November 12, 2024, before Judge Bryan Rounds in Ulster County Court, Whittaker pleaded guilty to Grand Larceny in the Third Degree (a Class D felony) and Ellsworth pleaded guilty to Petit Larceny (a Class A misdemeanor). Whittaker was sentenced today to five years’ probation, and must pay $192,000 in restitution to the elderly victim, including forfeiture of the $92,000 that OAG seized from his bank account. Ellsworth was sentenced to three years’ probation and as a condition of her probation, she is prohibited from working with the elderly for three years. 

    Attorney General James thanks the New York State Police Department’s Financial Crimes Unit, the Ulster County Department of Social Services, the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office, and the Ulster County District Attorney’s Office for their valuable assistance in this matter.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant Attorney General Cheryl J. Lee of the Criminal Enforcement and Financial Crimes Bureau (CEFC). Analytical work was provided by Legal Analyst Kai Tsurumaki, under the supervision of Supervising Analyst Paul Strocko and Deputy Supervising Analyst Jayleen Garcia. Forensic accounting was performed by Forensic Auditor Kirven Bashiri, under the supervision of Chief Auditor Kristen Fabbri and Deputy Chief Auditor Sandy Bizzarro of the Forensic Audit Section. CEFC is led by Bureau Chief Stephanie Swenton and Deputy Bureau Chief Joseph G. D’Arrigo.

    The criminal investigation was conducted by Detectives Eamon H. Murphy and Jason Johnston, under the supervision of Assistant Chief Samuel Scotellaro and Deputy Chief Juanita Bright of the Major Investigations Unit. The Investigations Bureau is led by Chief Investigator Oliver Pu-Folkes. Both CEFC and the Investigations Bureau are part of the Division for Criminal Justice, which is led by Chief Deputy Attorney General Jose Maldonado and overseen by First Deputy Attorney General Jennifer Levy.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: North Dakota Congressional Delegation Introduces Legislation in the Senate, House to Honor Casselton’s Commander Olson

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and John Hoeven (R-ND), and U.S. Representative Julie Fedorchak (R-ND), introduced bicameral legislation in the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives to rename the Casselton post office after hometown hero Commander Delbert Austin Olson. Located at 840 Front Street, the post office would be designated as the Commander Delbert Austin Olson Post Office.
    Commander Olson served honorably in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. He was a member of Observation Squadron 67 during the Vietnam War, which flew low-flying missions along the Ho Chi Minh Trail in Laos to place sensors to monitor hostile movements and listen in on conversations during the Vietnam War. On January 11, 1968, Commander Olson and his crewmen were killed in action when their plane went down. He was laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery in 2003.
    He earned multiple awards for his service, including the Navy Commendation Medal with valor, the Purple Heart, the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Ribbon Bar. His name is also inscribed along with all fallen comrades on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C. This legislation will memorialize his service and sacrifice, while recognizing his connection to Casselton and his contributions to the nation. Last Congress, the bill passed the Senate unanimously.
    “I’m honored to join the effort to rename the post office in Casselton after Commander Delbert Austin Olson,” said Cramer. “This renaming is not merely a gesture, but a lasting affirmation of Commander Olson’s indelible legacy—crafted through his selfless dedication during pivotal times in our history, including WWII, the Korean War, and his heroic sacrifice in the Vietnam War. This tribute is a testament to the profound bond between Commander Olson and the Casselton community, illuminating a solemn promise that his extraordinary contributions will forever be remembered. It’s time to get this bill passed to honor Commander Olson’s service and sacrifice.”
    “Commander Olson honorably served our nation in World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War, ultimately giving his life in service to our country,” said Hoeven. “Given his lifetime of service, it is fitting that we name the post office in Casselton, North Dakota in his honor. This will ensure that his memory and sacrifice for our nation are not forgotten.”
    “Commander Delbert Olson was a true North Dakota hero. He answered the call and served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, and made the ultimate sacrifice,” said Fedorchak. “Renaming the Casselton Post Office in his honor is a small way to show how much we value his sacrifice and to make sure his story lives on in the town he loved.” 
    Click here for bill text.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cramer Emphasizes the Importance of Nuclear Triad Modernization, Airborne ISR During Senate Committee Hearing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND)
    ***Click here to download video. Click here for audio.***
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) held a hearing today to consider the nomination of Elbridge Colby to be the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, a key position responsible for shaping U.S. defense strategy and guiding the Pentagon’s policy priorities.
    During the hearing, U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) questioned Colby on the importance of modernizing the nation’s nuclear triad and deterrence, and maintaining airborne intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities.
    [embedded content]
    North Dakota has nearly 70 years of nuclear deterrence experience. As a North Dakota native, Cramer said he has watched nuclear deterrence work up close at Minot Air Force Base (AFB), the only base to have two legs of the nuclear triad with 50-year-old Minuteman IIIs and 70-year-old B-52s. Cramer explained his extensive exposure to the processes, not just the systems, and also the work of the airmen who protect, fly, and operate the vehicles.
    “The year I was born, the first Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) was invented, and two years later the first one was installed at Minot, North Dakota,” said Cramer. “The Minuteman I and the Minuteman III came along after some time, and of course we also have 70-year-old B-52 bombers. Both of those vehicles carry nuclear warheads, and Minot Air Force Base contains and protects a large majority of nuclear material in our arsenal.”
    The Sentinel ICBM will replace the Minuteman III and is key to protecting the nation’s nuclear deterrent capabilities and maintaining the country’s Ground-Based Strategic Deterrent (GBSD). Cramer acknowledged the Sentinel program has faced challenges, but reiterated its importance. He asked Colby if he would commit to advising the President and Congress, “that we really do need to have that deterrence that has worked so well for so long, that not a single ICBM with a nuclear warhead has had to be fired.”
    “I do commit to advising the support for the ICBM, and the triad, and the land-based leg, and the Sentinel program as well,” responded Colby. “Obviously, there are concerns about the health of the program, so if confirmed, that would be a priority […]. But certainly, you have my commitment.”  
    Over the last couple of years, the U.S. Air Force has been shedding legacy airborne ISR platforms without sufficient new capabilities to replace them. Despite the demonstrated need for ISR, Cramer said he is seeing “an escalation of shedding by the United States Air Force, particularly modern ISR.” He asked Colby about how he views the importance of ISR, and his level of commitment to overseeing it.
    “I think that airborne ISR is very important, especially for its own reasons, but also because we cannot solely rely on the space-based layer,” said Colby.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Education for Democracy, Agreement on Conservation of Marine Biological Diversity among Several Resolutions Adopted by General Assembly

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    Poland’s President Warns of Resurgence of ‘Russian Imperialism’, Calls War on Ukraine ‘Beginning of Effort to Violently Destroy International Order’

    The General Assembly, over the course of two meetings today, adopted seven resolutions — some drawing more contention than others — and heard an address by the President of Poland.

    International Day for Judicial Well-being

    First, the General Assembly took up the draft resolution titled “International Day for Judicial Well-being” (document A/79/L.52).  Introducing the text, Lionel Rouwen Aingimea, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade of Nauru, stressed that — while the judiciary “serves as a cornerstone of justice” — challenges faced by judicial officers have long been overlooked.

    However, the representative of the United States said that his delegation will request a recorded vote — and vote no — “because this resolution represents the internationalization of the self-care movement and the migration of it into domains where it does not belong”.

    The Assembly then adopted the resolution by a recorded vote of 160 in favour to 1 against (United States), with 3 abstentions (Haiti, Madagascar, Syria).  Through the text, the General Assembly decided to proclaim 25 July of each year the International Day for Judicial Well-being.

    Education for Democracy

    Next, the Assembly considered the draft resolution titled “Education for democracy” (document A/79/L.56).  The representative of Mongolia introduced that text, emphasizing that an inclusive education system empowers individuals and strengthens governance institutions.  The text therefore calls for investments in quality education and lifelong learning, also urging Member States to harness the potential of digital technologies to advance education for democracy, he said.

    The representative of the United States said that his delegation will again call for a recorded vote — and vote no — on this draft “because much of the text violates United States policies”.  Specifically, he said that its discussion of misinformation and disinformation is an “unequivocal red line for the United States”, as these terms are “intentionally nebulous and ill-defined so they can be wielded as tools of censorship”.

    The Assembly then adopted the resolution by a recorded vote of 151 in favour to 1 against (United States), with 8 abstentions (Argentina, Belarus, Fiji, Madagascar, Russian Federation, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Syria).  Through the text, the Assembly strongly encouraged Member States and education authorities to integrate education for democracy — along with civic education and human-rights education, among others — into their education standards.

    After the vote, the representative of the Russian Federation noted that “democracy does not have a universal definition or a single model”.  She also disassociated from the text’s reference to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), stating that mention of the Office in a resolution about education is “unjustified” — a point echoed by Nicaragua’s representative.

    Iran’s representative, meanwhile, said that the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Education 2030 Incheon Declaration are “absolutely non-legally binding”.  Disassociating from relevant paragraphs, he said that Iran’s national plans and programmes “will be our final source of action and reference”.  Argentina’s representative also disassociated from several paragraphs, stressing that “every State, within its own sovereignty, has the right to participate [in the 2030 Agenda] — or not”.

    UN Regional Centre for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for Central Asia and Afghanistan

    The Assembly then turned to the draft resolution titled “United Nations Regional Centre for the Sustainable Development Goals for Central Asia and Afghanistan” (document A/79/L.57/Rev.1).  Introducing that text, the representative of Kazakhstan said that the Centre aims to address the specific needs of Central Asian countries, which each possesses unique challenges and opportunities that are shaped by diverse socioeconomic contexts, cultural realities and environmental conditions.

    The representative of the Russian Federation then noted that the countries of Central Asia are “unified by a shared history, similar geographic and social conditions and shared challenges in development”.  Therefore, they must coordinate efforts and find shared regional solutions.  “This, in turn, meets the current trends to regionalize efforts in the area of development,” he noted.

    The Assembly then adopted the text without a vote, through which it decided to formalize the Centre in Almaty, Kazakhstan.  Further, it requested the Secretary-General to appoint its Head and further decided that the costs of all its activities shall be met by voluntary contributions.

    After the vote, several delegates expressed concern over the process by which this text was negotiated.  Switzerland’s representative said that her delegation would have preferred more transparency and inclusivity, while the representative of Türkiye said that the wider membership was not sufficiently consulted during negotiations.  Mexico’s representative expressed hope that “this way of carrying out multilateral negotiations will not be repeated in other processes”.

    Meanwhile, the representative of the United States said that Kazakhstan “needs neither an expanded UN system nor the SDGs in order to prosper — it should instead make sovereign decisions for its people and cast aside the burden of soft global governance”.  For her part, Australia’s representative — also speaking for Canada and New Zealand — welcomed the adoption.

    International Day of Peaceful Coexistence and International Day of Hope

    The Assembly also considered the draft resolution titled “International Day of Peaceful Coexistence” (document A/79/L.53).  Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Minister for Transportation and Telecommunications of Bahrain, introducing that text, said that it reaffirms the role of Member States and other stakeholders in promoting tolerance, respect for religious and cultural diversity and human rights.

    The representative of the United States again said that his delegation will call for a recorded vote on this text — and vote no — expressing concern that the resolution “advances a programme of soft global governance that is inconsistent with US sovereignty”.  He added:  “Simply put, globalist endeavours like Agenda 2030 and the SDGs lost at the ballot box; therefore, the US rejects and denounces the Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development and the SDGs.”

    He also expressed concern that the resolution’s titular reference to “peaceful coexistence” could be “co-opted to imply the United Nations’ endorsement of China’s ‘Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence’”.  Speaking in exercise of the right of reply, China’s representative said that such principles are “widely recognized by the international community and contained in many international instruments”.

    Adopting the resolution by a recorded vote of 162 in favour to 3 against (Argentina, Israel, United States), with 2 abstentions (Paraguay, Peru), the Assembly decided to proclaim 28 January as the International Day of Peaceful Coexistence, to be observed annually.

    The Assembly then turned to the draft resolution titled “International Day of Hope” (document A/79/L.54).  Introducing it, Kiribati’s representative said that hope is “a force that has carried humanity through the darkest of times and propelled us towards a future of possibility, resilience and renewal”.  However, he expressed disappointment over the decision by the United States to force a vote.

    On that, the delegate of the United States said that the text “contains references to diversity, equity and inclusion that conflict with US policies that seek to eliminate all forms of discrimination and create equal opportunities for all”.  He added: “In a world that faces many challenges, funding and effort should be allocated to critical causes and crises, rather than International Days.”

    The Assembly then adopted the text by a recorded vote of 161 in favour to 1 against (United States), with 4 abstentions (India, Paraguay, Peru, Türkiye), through which it decided to declare 12 July the International Day of Hope.

    “What we’ve just seen this morning is a clear example of the lack of commitment by the United States to a culture of peace, to the United Nations as a whole and to multilateralism in general,” stressed the representative of Cuba, after the vote.

    Agreement on Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction

    The Assembly also took up the draft resolution titled “Agreement under the United Nations Convention on the law of the Sea on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction” (document A/79/L.55).  Singapore’s representative, introducing the text, called on States to ratify the agreement. He also made an oral revision to replace “welcome” with “take note of” regarding signatures and ratifications of the agreement to date.

    The Assembly then adopted that text, as orally revised, without a vote.  By its terms, the Assembly called on all States and regional economic integration organizations that have not done so to consider signing, ratifying, approving or accepting the Agreement as soon as possible.

    However, the representative of the Russian Federation disassociated from consensus, stating that mechanisms to establish marine protected areas without appropriate scientific research “run the risk of abuse and unsubstantiated restriction of rights, freedoms and legitimate interests of States on the high seas”.  His counterpart from the United States, meanwhile, said that her country is “currently reviewing its policies and does not take a position on this matter”.

    Eightieth Anniversary of the End of the Second World War

    The Assembly also adopted, without a vote, a text titled “Eightieth anniversary of the end of the Second World War” (document A/79/L.51), which requested the holding of a special meeting of the Assembly to commemorate all victims of the Second World War in the second week of May in 2025 and every five years thereafter.

    The representative of the Russian Federation, introducing that text, said that 2025 marks the eightieth anniversary of the victory over Nazism, fascism and Japanese militarism.  Paying tribute to the millions who were sacrificed for that victory — including 27 million from the Soviet Union — he said that the international community has a shared duty to honour that victory.

    However, Ukraine’s representative underscored that it is the “height of cynicism” for a State engaged in an unprovoked war of aggression to attempt to unite nations around the memory of the Second World War.  She added:  “Despite the high price paid for peace, the promise of ‘never again’ remains unfulfilled — today, Europe is witnessing the most brutal war since Hitler.”

    The representative of the United Kingdom, similarly, pointed to the “fundamental irony of Russia summoning us here today”, having presented a resolution “to mark the end of one war in Europe having started another”.  Lithuania’s representative added:  “Today, Russia instrumentalizes the memory of the Second World War to justify its own crimes, both past and present.”  Poland’s representative, also speaking for a group of 34 other European States, spotlighted the Russian Federation’s “cynicism of using ‘de-Nazification’ to justify its illegal aggression and occupation of part of an independent UN Member State”.

    “We have to say this — the sponsor of this resolution simply does not live by the words of the UN Charter,” stressed the representative of Canada, also speaking for Australia and New Zealand.  “Russia’s aggression — and we must name it precisely — and its bid to expand its territory at the expense of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of other States is incompatible with the purposes and principles of the Charter,” he said.

    For his part, the representative of the United States said that the “Russia-Ukraine war has waged on for far too long”, urging that the “UN be guided by its original purpose and unite to end the bloodshed”.  All Member States should recommit themselves to the “old vision of peace that propelled us out of the devastation and despair of World War II”, he added.  Israel’s representative said:  “It is our responsibility not only to remember but to ensure that future generations carry this memory forward to prevent history from repeating itself.”

    Speaking in exercise of the right of reply, the delegate of the Russian Federation expressed concern about the politicized statements delivered by the delegates of Poland, Ukraine, Lithuania and the United Kingdom.  It is the actions of European States, she said, that are hampering the settlement of the Ukraine conflict.

    Appointments to Joint Inspection Unit

    In other business, the Assembly decided, without a vote, to appoint Makiese Kinkela Augusto (Angola), Victor Moraru (Republic of Moldova), Jesús Miranda Hita (Spain) and Marcel Jullier (Switzerland) to the Joint Inspection Unit of the United Nations system, for a five-year term beginning 1 January 2026 and expiring on 31 December 2030.

    Address by President of Poland

    The General Assembly also heard an address by Andrzej Duda, President of Poland.  Noting that recent years have demonstrated how fragile peace and security are, he spotlighted the resurgence of “Russian imperialism”.  The 2014 attack on Ukraine marked “just the beginning of an effort to violently destroy the international order”, he said.

    Detailing Poland’s security cooperation, he pointed to the United States missile base in Redzikowo — an example of the “American security umbrella over Europe” — as well as recent talks with United States President Donald J. Trump.  Poland is also active in collective security systems and UN peacekeeping missions, and he also highlighted the Three Seas Initiative, which aims to improve connectivity among 13 countries across Central and Eastern Europe.

    “Poland has never imposed its views on anyone” or colonized another country, he went on to say.  Recalling his country’s long history, he invoked the construction of a powerful seventeenth-century State, gradual partitions, loss of independence, a 123-year-long independence struggle, the achievement of independence in 1918 and the destruction of that independence “by the two totalitarian regimes of the twentieth century:  Russian communism and German Nazism”.

    In the last 30 years of Poland’s history — after it broke free from the Russian Federation’s sphere of influence — it transformed from a backward, poor country with high unemployment into a highly developed State and the twenty-first largest economy in the world, he pointed out.  “Only peace can provide optimal conditions for development,” he said, adding that it is necessary to defend peace with real force.

    The representative of the Russian Federation, taking the floor under a point of order after the address, said that his delegation “had doubts” regarding the expediency of conducting today’s meeting.  “The President of Poland spent a lot of time on debating our country,” he said, adding that — although the Council adopted a text calling for peace between the Russian Federation and Ukraine — one of Poland’s leaders “talked about the logic of military focus” and providing support to Ukraine.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Pamela Bondi Intervenes in Lawsuit Against Illinois for Unlawfully Requiring Nonprofits to Publicly Post Race Based Data

    Source: US Justice – Antitrust Division

    Headline: Attorney General Pamela Bondi Intervenes in Lawsuit Against Illinois for Unlawfully Requiring Nonprofits to Publicly Post Race Based Data

    Today, Attorney General Pamela Bondi moved to intervene in American Alliance for Equal Rights v. Bennett. The lawsuit challenges Illinois’ first in the nation law that requires nonprofits to publicly disclose demographic information, such as race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, and gender identity, of its officers and directors.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Canadian Drug Traffickers Sentenced to Prison for Transporting Methamphetamine and Cocaine on Behalf of the Wolfpack Alliance

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)

    Matthew Podolsky, the Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced today that MICHAEL HABIB, an associate of the Canadian criminal organization known as the Wolfpack Alliance, was sentenced to 17 and a half years in prison for trafficking narcotics. HABIB pled guilty on December 20, 2023, before U.S. District Judge John P. Cronan, who imposed today’s sentence.  HABIB’s sentencing follows the imposition of sentences of 18 years, 17 and a half years, and four and half years on his co-defendants, SURINDER SINGH CHEEMA, BHUPINDER SINGH VIRK, and CHRISTOPHER BURGOS, on December 19, 2024, July 17, 2024, and December 16, 2024, respectively.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Matthew Podolsky said: “Wolfpack and its associates have spread drugs and violence in the United States and in Canada. Michael Habib and his co-conspirators are responsible for transporting thousands of kilograms of cocaine and methamphetamine across our northern border, ordering drug-related shootings and kidnappings, and attempting to smuggle wanted international hitmen into the United States from Canada.  Today’s prison sentence will help protect the public from wanton violence and dangerous narcotics, and demonstrates our resolve to root out transnational criminal organizations like Wolfpack.”

    FBI Assistant Director in Charge James E. Dennehy said: “The associates of the Wolfpack Alliance have all been rightly sentenced for establishing an international drug trafficking route to assist the flow of thousands of kilograms of methamphetamine and cocaine through our country into Canada. This conspiracy caused significant amounts of dangerous drugs to enter the United States, endangering the public’s safety. The FBI will continue to dismantle and hold accountable any criminal enterprise member, regardless of their origin, which utilizes our nation as an economic foothold and throughfare for their illegal operations.”

    According to the Indictment, public filings, and statements made in court proceedings:

    From at least in or about February 2022 through at least in or about November 2022, HABIB, CHEEMA, VIRK, BURGOS and others conspired to distribute narcotics by shipping thousands of kilograms of methamphetamine and cocaine across the U.S. and into Canada. In or about March 2022, law enforcement seized approximately 400 kilograms of cocaine shipped by the conspirators from a warehouse in New Jersey, and approximately 96 kilograms of cocaine and 86 kilograms of methamphetamine in the vicinity of Kansas City, Kansas. In connection with their guilty pleas, HABIB admitted to conspiring to distribute at least approximately 400 kilograms of cocaine; CHEEMA admitted to conspiring to distribute at least approximately 1.3 metric tons of methamphetamine and 764 kilograms of cocaine; VIRK admitted to conspiring to distribute at least approximately 1.1 metric tons of methamphetamine and 480 kilograms of cocaine; and BURGOS admitted to conspiring to distribute at least approximately 400 kilograms of cocaine.

    The defendants engaged in additional criminal activities. HABIB and BURGOS, on behalf of the Wolfpack Alliance, assisted two Wolfpack-aligned hitmen, Gene Lahrkamp and Duncan Bailey, in their attempt to escape Canada and evade Canadian law enforcement, until Lahrkamp and Bailey were killed in an accidental plane crash in Canada on or about April 30, 2022. CHEEMA, in or about the spring of 2024, subsequent to his guilty plea and while awaiting sentencing at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, New York, directed his confederates in the greater Toronto, Canada area to conduct shootings and issue threats of violence in connection with drug debts. VIRK was arrested in or about November 2022 in California with three unregistered “ghost” guns and approximately $487,900 in cash.

    *               *                *

    In addition to their prison terms, HABIB, 38, of Toronto, Canada; CHEEMA, 31, of Brampton, Canada; VIRK, 31, of Fresno, California; and BURGOS, 36, of Brooklyn, New York, were sentenced to five, four, four, and three years of supervised release, respectively, and were ordered to forfeit $487,900 and a 2020 Mercedes Benz AMG GT63.

    Mr. Podolsky praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Mr. Podolsky further thanked the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Peel Ontario Regional Police for their assistance and cooperation in the investigation.

    This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (“OCDETF”) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles criminal organizations using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    This case is being handled by the Office’s Narcotics Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas S. Burnett, Jane Y. Chong, and Matthew R. Shahabian are in charge of the prosecution. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Andrew Cardno to Highlight AI-Powered Energy Efficiency at Indian Gaming Association Trade Show

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN DIEGO, March 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Quick Custom Intelligence (QCI) is pleased to announce that Andrew Cardno, Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of QCI, will deliver a highly anticipated presentation at the Indian Gaming Association Trade Show in San Diego. Cardno’s session, titled “Optimizing Efficiency: The Power of AI-Driven Analytics,” will take place on Wednesday, April 2nd, 2025, at 2:00 PM. The Indian Gaming Association Trade Show runs from March 31st to April 3rd, 2025.

    In his talk, Cardno will explore how AI-powered analytics is revolutionizing energy efficiency by optimizing resource allocation, predicting demand, and reducing waste. By leveraging machine learning and real-time data, tribal governments and enterprises can enhance energy management, improve grid reliability, and reduce operational costs. This session will delve into how AI-driven insights are transforming energy strategies—helping tribes maximize sustainability while ensuring long-term economic and environmental benefits in a rapidly evolving energy landscape.

    “Tribal governments and businesses stand at the forefront of a major shift in how we utilize technology to drive sustainable growth,” said Andrew Cardno, CTO of QCI. “AI-driven analytics give us the power to make informed decisions that not only cut costs but also create a positive environmental impact. I look forward to sharing insights on how this exciting technology can help tribes build a resilient, efficient future.”

    Victor Rocha, Conference Chair for the Indian Gaming Association, emphasized the importance of this conversation in the current climate of rapid technological advancement.

    “We’re excited to welcome Andrew Cardno to the Indian Gaming Association Trade Show,” said Rocha. “Our mission is to empower tribal leaders with cutting-edge solutions, and AI-driven analytics is a game-changer in energy management and sustainability. We believe this discussion will spark innovative strategies for tribal communities nationwide.”

    The Indian Gaming Association Trade Show is recognized as one of the premier events for tribal gaming, attracting thought leaders, innovators, and decision-makers from across the industry. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about the latest advancements in technology and network with industry experts who are shaping the future of tribal enterprises.

    For more information on Andrew Cardno’s session or to register for the Indian Gaming Association Trade Show, visit www.indiangaming.org

    ABOUT The 2025 Indian Gaming Tradeshow and Convention
    As the premier events for the tribal gaming community, the Indian Gaming Tradeshow & Convention and Mid-Year Conference & Expo deliver the insight and strategies you need to rise to the top of the competitive gaming industry landscape. There’s no better opportunity to meet industry leaders, access cutting-edge trends and celebrate a proud tradition of success. For more information visit: www.indiangamingtradeshow.com.

    ABOUT QCI
    Quick Custom Intelligence (QCI) has pioneered the revolutionary QCI Enterprise Platform, an artificial intelligence platform that seamlessly integrates player development, marketing, and gaming operations with powerful, real-time tools designed specifically for the gaming and hospitality industries. Our advanced, highly configurable software is deployed in over 250 casino resorts across North America, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Latin America, and Europe. The QCI AGI Platform, which manages more than $35 billion in annual gross gaming revenue, stands as a best-in-class solution, whether on-premises, hybrid, or cloud-based, enabling fully coordinated activities across all aspects of gaming or hospitality operations. QCI’s data-driven, AI-powered software propels swift, informed decision-making vital in the ever-changing casino industry, assisting casinos in optimizing resources and profits, crafting effective marketing campaigns, and enhancing customer loyalty. QCI was co-founded by Dr. Ralph Thomas and Mr. Andrew Cardno and is based in San Diego, with additional offices in Las Vegas, St. Louis, Dallas, and Tulsa. Main phone number: (858) 299.5715. Visit us at www.quickcustomintelligence.com.

    ABOUT Andrew Cardno
    Andrew Cardno is a distinguished figure in the realm of artificial intelligence and data plumbing. With over two decades spearheading private Ph.D. and master’s level research teams, his expertise has made significant waves in data tooling. Andrew’s innate ability to innovate has led him to devise numerous pioneering visualization methods. Of these, the most notable is the deep zoom image format, a groundbreaking innovation that has since become a cornerstone in the majority of today’s mapping tools. His leadership acumen has earned him two coveted Smithsonian Laureates, and teams under his mentorship have clinched 40 industry awards, including three pivotal gaming industry transformation awards. Together with Dr. Ralph Thomas, the duo co-founded Quick Custom Intelligence, amplifying their collaborative innovative capacities. A testament to his inventive prowess, Andrew boasts over 150 patent applications. Across various industries—be it telecommunications with Telstra Australia, retail with giants like Walmart and Best Buy, or the medical sector with esteemed institutions like City Of Hope and UCSD—Andrew’s impact is deeply felt. He has enriched the literature with insights, co-authoring eight influential books with Dr. Thomas and contributing to over 100 industry publications. An advocate for community and diversity, Andrew’s work has touched over 100 Native American Tribal Resorts, underscoring his expansive and inclusive professional endeavors.

    ABOUT Victor Rocha
    Victor Rocha holds the distinguished position of Conference Chairman for the Indian Gaming Association, while also leading Victor-Strategies as its president. As the owner and publisher of Pechanga.net, he has been deeply engaged in the political landscape of U.S. tribal gaming since 1998. Rocha’s outstanding contributions to the industry have been recognized through numerous accolades, such as AGEM’s 2023 Peter Mead Memorial Award Honoring Excellence in Gaming Media & Communication, the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development’s 2015 Tribal Gaming Visionary Award, the American Gaming Association’s 2013 Lifetime Achievement Award for Gaming Communications, Raving’s 2012 Casino Marketing Lifetime Achievement Award, the National Indian Gaming Association’s 2002 Outstanding Contribution to Indian Country, VCAT’s 2001 Catalyst Award, and Global Gaming Business Magazine’s 2000 “40 Under 40” list.

    Contact:
    Laurel Kay, Quick Custom Intelligence
    Phone: 858-349-8354

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Hampton Financial Corporation Announces Results of Annual Meeting of Shareholders

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, March 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hampton Financial Corporation (“Hampton” or the “Company”) (TSXV: HFC) is pleased to announce the results from the Company’s Annual Meeting of Shareholders held February 28, 2025. All matters put forth in the management information circular dated January 30, 2025 were passed, including the election of the six (6) nominees for election as director, each of whom was an incumbent director of the Company, identified in the management information circular.

    About Hampton Financial Corporation

    Hampton is a unique private equity firm that seeks to build shareholder value through long-term strategic investments. Through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Hampton Securities Limited (“HSL”), Hampton is actively engaged in family office, wealth management, institutional services and capital markets activities. HSL is a full-service investment dealer, regulated by CIRO and registered in Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Nova Scotia, Northwest Territories, Ontario, and Quebec. In addition, the Company, through HSL, provides investment banking services, which include assisting companies with raising capital, advising on mergers and acquisitions, and aiding issuers in obtaining a listing on recognized securities exchanges in Canada and abroad and HSL’s Corporate Finance Group provides early stage, growing companies the capital, they need to create value for investors. HSL continues to develop its Wealth Management, Advisory Team and Principal-Agent programs which offers to the industry’s most experienced wealth managers a unique and flexible operating platform that provides additional freedom, financial support, and tax effectiveness as they build and manage their professional practice. Through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Oxygen Working Capital (“OWC”) the company offers factoring and other commercial financing services to clients across Canada. The Company is exploring opportunities to diversify its sources of revenue by way of strategic investments in both complimentary business and non-core sectors that can leverage the expertise of its Board and the diverse experience of its management team.

    For more information, please contact:

    Olga Juravlev
    Chief Financial Officer
    Hampton Financial Corporation
    (416) 862-8701

    or

    Peter M. Deeb
    Executive Chairman & CEO
    Hampton Financial Corporation
    (416) 862-8651

    The TSXV has in no way approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release. Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Kehoe Announces Two Judicial Appointments

    Source: US State of Missouri

    MARCH 4, 2025

    Jefferson City — Today, Governor Kehoe announced judicial appointments to the 21st and 9th Judicial Circuits.

    Ellen W. Dunne, of Des Peres, was appointed as the Circuit Judge in the 21st Judicial Circuit.

    Judge Dunne currently serves as Associate Circuit Judge for the 21st Judicial Circuit, a position in which she has held since 2017. She earned her Juris Doctor from Saint Louis University School of Law and holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science from the University of Missouri. Prior to her judicial service, she practiced law for over two decades, representing clients in all types of civil matters. In addition to her judicial duties, Judge Dunne is an active member of the Missouri Bar Association, Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis, Lawyers Association of St. Louis, Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater St. Louis, and St. Louis County Bar Association. Judge Dunne will fill the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Nancy M. Watkins McLaughlin from the circuit bench.

    Adam Warren, of Chillicothe, was appointed as the Associate Circuit Judge for Sullivan County in the 9th Judicial Circuit.

    Mr. Warren currently serves as the Livingston County prosecuting attorney, a position he has held since 2011. He earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri School of Law and holds a Bachelor of Science in hospitality and restaurant administration from Missouri State University. Mr. Warren built a successful private practice as the owner of Warren Law Office, LLC. He also served in the Missouri Army National Guard from 2004 to 2011 before receiving a honorable discharge. Mr. Warren will fill the vacancy left by the recent passing of Judge Tracey Mason-White.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican Citizen Sentenced in Alien Smuggling Conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PLATTSBURGH, NEW YORK – Francisco Montalvo-Grenada, age 26, and a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced today to 36 months in prison for his role in an alien smuggling conspiracy.

    Acting United States Attorney Daniel Hanlon and Chief Patrol Agent Robert N. Garcia of United States Border Patrol, Swanton Sector, made the announcement.

    As part of his prior guilty plea, Montalvo-Grenada admitted that on May 15, 2023, he traveled from North Carolina to Northern New York, along with four co-conspirators, and smuggled 16 citizens of Mexico who had illegally entered the United States from Canada.  Following Montalvo-Grenada’s sentence, he faces deportation to Mexico by Immigration and Customs Enforcement Officers. 

    The United States Border Patrol investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Stitt prosecuted this case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Previously Convicted Peruvian National Arrested After 2 Prior Deportations

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    EL PASO, Texas – A Peruvian national with multiple prior violent crime convictions was arrested near El Paso on criminal charges related to his alleged illegal re-entry.

    According to court documents, Joel Edgardo Flores-Reyes was allegedly found just over one mile west of the Paso Del Norte port of entry without immigration documents allowing him to legally be or remain in the U.S. He has been previously removed from the U.S. twice, the most recent occasion being on June 13, 2024. Flores-Reyes was convicted on four counts in three separate misdemeanor cases in Arizona between 2006 and 2010.

    Flores-Reyes is charged with one count of illegal re-entry. If convicted, he faces up to two years in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Margaret Leachman for the Western District of Texas made the announcement.

    The U.S. Border Patrol is investigating the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Patricia Aguayo is prosecuting the case.

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

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican Man Charged With Assaulting Border Patrol Agent

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    TUCSON, Ariz. – Gerardo Tejada-Calleja, 22, of Mexico, was arrested by the United States Border Patrol on March 2, 2025, and charged with Assault on a Federal Officer and Illegal Entry Into the United States.

    The government’s complaint alleges that, on March 2, 2025, a United States Border Patrol agent responded to a report of suspected illegal aliens in the area of Vamori, Arizona. When an agent approached the area, Tejada-Calleja was found hiding under a tree, attempting to evade apprehension. Tejada-Calleja ran down a wash upon seeing the agent. After a brief pursuit, Tejada-Calleja and another individual were found hiding under a tree and some brush. During attempts to apprehend the two individuals, the agent reached for his radio to let other agents know he needed assistance. Tejada-Calleja grabbed the agent’s gun belt area and his radio in an attempt to rip it out of the agent’s hands. During the assault, Tejada-Calleja wrapped his arms around the agent, taking him down to the ground backwards and onto his back. Tejada-Calleja and the other individual were able to evade apprehension again until they were subsequently captured and taken into custody.

    United States Border Patrol conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Precup, District of Arizona, Tucson, is handling the prosecution.

    CASE NUMBER:           25-04720MJ-1
    RELEASE NUMBER:    2025-029_Tejada-Calleja

    # # #

    For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
    Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: A potential $110B economic hit: How Trump’s tariffs could mean rising costs for families, strain for states

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Bedassa Tadesse, Professor of Economics, University of Minnesota Duluth

    A worker at a steel company in Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, on Feb. 11, 2025. Julio Cesar Aguilar/AFP via Getty Images

    Get ready to pay more for avocados, maple syrup and – well – almost everything.

    The U.S. officially imposed new 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico on March 4, 2025, following through on a long-delayed pledge from President Donald Trump. American consumers and businesses are now bracing for higher costs and potential supply disruptions.

    Although tariffs, or taxes on imports, are a pillar of Trump’s economic policy, the move still surprised many observers, since Mexico and Canada are among the U.S.’s traditional allies and top trading partners. The administration further rattled global supply chains by doubling existing tariffs on Chinese goods to 20%.

    As an economist who studies global trade, I wanted to know how the 25% import duties on Canada and Mexico would affect different parts of the country. So I conducted a state-by-state impact analysis.

    What I found is alarming: The U.S. economy could face an annual loss of US$109.23 billion. This shortfall would mean rising costs of everyday goods for American families and would disproportionately affect certain states. My analysis focused exclusively on the effects of U.S. tariffs, so it didn’t take retaliation from Canada or Mexico into account. If it did, the losses would be even greater.

    Unequal burdens for states, higher prices for families

    Imagine your grocery bill surging by 17.5% to 25%, car parts costing hundreds of dollars more, and your favorite local restaurant raising prices as imported ingredients become unaffordable. Because tariffs drive up consumer prices, these scenarios, or others like them, will soon become reality across the U.S.

    But not all Americans will be affected equally, I found. States that are deeply connected to North American supply chains will suffer the biggest economic blows. Texas, with its strong trade ties to Mexico and key role in energy, would lose $15.3 billion. California’s diverse economy would take a $10.2 billion hit. Michigan, heavily reliant on auto manufacturing, would face a $6.2 billion blow – over 1% of its gross domestic product.

    The biggest losers from the policy on a per-capita basis would be smaller, trade-dependent states that lack the flexibility to absorb such a shock. New Mexico, Kentucky and Indiana would be among the hardest hit, with projected GDP losses ranging from 1.12% to 1.48%. These states rely heavily on manufacturing and specialized industries, making them particularly vulnerable to rising costs and supply chain disruptions.

    Take New Mexico. While it may not experience the largest total economic loss, it would bear the highest per-person burden. That $1.73 billion hit to its economy would translate to $822 for every resident – a devastating blow in a state where incomes are already below the national average.

    Indeed, the likely effects of tariffs will be felt especially hard by American families. For example, a family of four in New Mexico would see an estimated $3,288 additional annual costs, equivalent to three months of grocery bills or an entire year’s utility expenses. Families in Kentucky and Indiana would also bear heavy financial burdens, paying an extra $3,120 and $2,836, respectively. Even in wealthier states such as Texas, the added annual costs would reach over $2,000 per household.

    For middle- and lower-income families, these aren’t trivial costs. They represent difficult trade-offs, forcing households to cut back on essentials, delay major purchases or dip into savings to make ends meet.

    A truck crosses the Ambassador Bridge, a border crossing between Windsor, Ontario, Canada, and Detroit, Mich., on March 1, 2025.
    Geoff Robins/AFP via Getty Images

    Where industry will face a tough hit

    Perhaps no industry would suffer more than the auto sector, particularly in states such as Michigan, Indiana and Kentucky. These regions rely on a highly integrated North American supply chain, where components cross borders multiple times before a final product reaches consumers. Tariffs would disrupt this delicate balance, leading to price increases, reduced production and job losses.

    My conservative estimate shows that such disruptions could cost the industry approximately $28.2 billion, putting around 680,000 jobs at risk across manufacturing, parts production and sales operations. And the ripple effects would extend beyond automakers to suppliers, dealerships and local economies.

    But the pain wouldn’t stop there. Manufacturing, which plays a critical role in 17 of the top 20 states most affected by tariffs, would also face rising costs and shrinking profit margins. The agricultural sector – vital in at least 10 states – would endure higher input costs and potential retaliatory tariffs from Mexico and Canada. Past trade disputes have shown that American farmers often bear the brunt of such policies, with lost export markets and declining revenues.

    During the U.S.-China trade war of 2018-2019, for example, American farmers suffered over $27 billion in losses, with soybean exports dropping by 71% and states such as Iowa, Illinois and Kansas losing billions in GDP. The federal government paid affected farmers more than $23 billion to offset these losses. Similar – and possibly worse – challenges loom now.

    Retaliation from Mexico and Canada could deal a heavy blow to agricultural exports – including corn, beef and dairy – that anchor local economies, especially in Iowa, Nebraska and Wisconsin. Both countries have threatened countermeasures targeting key U.S. exports, raising concerns among farmers and agribusinesses. Retaliatory tariffs could shrink profit margins, further disrupt supply chains, and create uncertainty for producers relying on these markets.

    Looking at the bigger picture

    The new Trump tariff regime represents a fundamental shift in how the U.S. engages with its closest economic partners. While ostensibly meant to strengthen American industry, the tariffs on offer have serious side effects that will likely cause widespread disruptions for businesses, consumers and entire state economies.

    Trade isn’t just about numbers on a spreadsheet. It’s about real people, real businesses and the intricate economic fabric that connects the nation. Changes to this system can come at a high price. Safeguarding American jobs and ensuring economic stability entails recognizing the realities of global trade and considering the trade-offs of instituting new policies.

    While tariffs are one method of disrupting the status quo, they are far from the only way. Indeed, reform is also possible through targeted policies – including negotiated trade agreements, investment incentives and workforce development programs – that address trade concerns without altering deeply integrated supply chains.

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

    – ref. A potential $110B economic hit: How Trump’s tariffs could mean rising costs for families, strain for states – https://theconversation.com/a-potential-110b-economic-hit-how-trumps-tariffs-could-mean-rising-costs-for-families-strain-for-states-251028

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: Diversified Royalty Corp. Announces March 2025 Cash Dividend and Q4 2024 Earning Release Date

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, March 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Diversified Royalty Corp. (TSX: DIV and DIV.DB.A) (the “Corporation” or “DIV”) is pleased to announce that its board of directors has approved a cash dividend of $0.02083 per common share for the period of March 1, 2025 to March 31, 2025, which is equal to $0.25 per common share on an annualized basis. The dividend will be paid on March 31, 2025 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on March 14, 2025.

    Q4 2024 Earnings Release Date

    DIV will release earnings results for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024 following the closing of regular trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange on March 24, 2025.

    About Diversified Royalty Corp.

    DIV is a multi-royalty corporation, engaged in the business of acquiring top-line royalties from well-managed multi-location businesses and franchisors in North America. DIV’s objective is to acquire predictable, growing royalty streams from a diverse group of multi-location businesses and franchisors.

    DIV currently owns the Mr. Lube + Tires, AIR MILES®, Sutton, Mr. Mikes, Nurse Next Door, Oxford Learning Centres, Stratus Building Solutions and BarBurrito trademarks. Mr. Lube + Tires is the leading quick lube service business in Canada, with locations across Canada. AIR MILES® is Canada’s largest coalition loyalty program. Sutton is among the leading residential real estate brokerage franchisor businesses in Canada. Mr. Mikes operates casual steakhouse restaurants primarily in western Canadian communities. Nurse Next Door is a home care provider with locations across Canada and the United States as well as in Australia. Oxford Learning Centres is one of Canada’s leading franchisee supplemental education services. Stratus Building Solutions is a leading commercial cleaning service franchise company providing comprehensive janitorial, building cleaning, and office cleaning services primarily in the United States. BarBurrito is the largest quick service Mexican restaurant food chain in Canada.

    DIV’s objective is to increase cash flow per share by making accretive royalty purchases and through the growth of purchased royalties. DIV intends to continue to pay a predictable and stable monthly dividend to shareholders and increase the dividend over time, in each case as cash flow per share allows.

    Forward Looking Statements

    Certain statements contained in this news release may constitute “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws that involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. The use of any of the words “anticipate”, “continue”, “estimate”, “expect”, “intend”, “may”, “will”, ”project”, “should”, “believe”, “confident”, “plan” and “intends” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking information, although not all forward-looking information contains these identifying words. Specifically, forward-looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, statements made in relation to: the amount and timing of the March 2025 dividend to be paid to DIV’s shareholders; DIV’s objective to continue to pay predictable and stable monthly dividends to shareholders; and DIV’s corporate objectives. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events, performance, or achievements of DIV to differ materially from those anticipated or implied by such forward-looking information. DIV believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information included in this news release are reasonable but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct. In particular there can be no assurance that: DIV will be able to make monthly dividend payments to the holders of its common shares; or DIV will achieve any of its corporate objectives. Given these uncertainties, readers are cautioned that forward-looking information included in this news release are not guarantees of future performance, and such forward-looking information should not be unduly relied upon. More information about the risks and uncertainties affecting DIV’s business and the businesses of its royalty partners can be found in the “Risk Factors” section of its Annual Information Form dated March 21, 2024 and in its most recent Management’s Discussion and Analysis, copies of each of which are available under DIV’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com.

    In formulating the forward-looking information contained herein, management has assumed that, among other things, DIV will generate sufficient cash flows from its royalties to service its debt and pay dividends to shareholders; the business and economic conditions affecting DIV and its royalty partners will continue substantially in the ordinary course, including without limitation with respect to general industry conditions, general levels of economic activity and regulations. These assumptions, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect.

    All of the forward-looking statements made in this news release are qualified by these cautionary statements and other cautionary statements or factors contained herein, and there can be no assurance that the actual results or developments will be realized or, even if substantially realized, that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on, DIV. The forward-looking information included in this news release is presented as of the date of this news release and DIV assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise such information to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required by applicable law.

    THE TORONTO STOCK EXCHANGE HAS NOT REVIEWED AND DOES NOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR THE ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

    Additional Information

    Additional information relating to the Corporation and other public filings, is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com.

    Contact:
    Sean Morrison, President and Chief Executive Officer
    Diversified Royalty Corp.
    (236) 521-8470

    Greg Gutmanis, Chief Financial Officer and VP Acquisitions
    Diversified Royalty Corp.
    (236) 521-8471

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed Warns DOGE’s Indiscriminate Cuts, Sloppy Work, and Lack of Transparency will Backfire on Republicans & Harm U.S. Taxpayers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

    WATCH: Sen. Reed says DOGE doesn’t want efficient government, it wants to weaken government, blackout oversight & serve Trump and Musk’s interests at the expense of taxpayers

    WASHINGTON, DC – Who is in charge of the so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)?  What is the agency up to?  Who is it benefitting?  Who is it hurting?  Is DOGE breaking the law?

    These are all simple, reasonable questions — ones that Congress and courts have been asking and ones that the Trump Administration has dodged since January 20, when the president signed an Executive Order that changed the name of the U.S. Digital Service (USDS), a small, technology-based office, and morphed it into the vastly more expansive DOGE with long tentacles extending into the operations of virtually every federal department, agency, and office.

    Today, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Financial Services and General Government (FSGG) Subcommittee, which oversees funding for the U.S. Treasury Department, the White House, and other key federal agencies and offices, took to the floor of the U.S. Senate to call out DOGE for its attempted power grab, incompetence, and lack of transparency.

    “Mr. Musk and DOGE have rammed their way into agencies — not to make smart decisions, not to improve efficiency, not to eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse, but to disrupt, denigrate and demoralize.  And along the way, DOGE has made incredible blunders, such as firing and then scrambling to rehire employees at the Nation Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA).  Let me repeat that – Mr. Musk and his minions fired the people who keep nuclear weapons safe,” said Senator Reed. 

    Senator Reed continued.  “Musk and his unvetted coders made the CIA send an unclassified email with the names of its recent hires.  And cut staff from the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Weather Service who prevent and warn every American of travel and weather dangers.  These actions don’t just reflect incredible incompetence — they are dangerous.  They undermine national security and increase risks for American citizens.  In any other setting, blunders like these would be grounds for firing.  But Musk and DOGE operate with arrogance, impunity, and zero transparency.”

    Regarding the question of who is in charge of DOGE, Donald Trump told a Miami audience of investors and corporate executives on February 20: “I signed an order creating the Department of Government Efficiency and put a man named Elon Musk in charge.” Trump made that statement just days after his Administration’s lawyers told federal courts that Mr. Musk isn’t even a part of the federal bureaucracy.

    In terms of what the agency is up to, no one in the Trump Administration has been able to fully say, but Mr. Musk has repeatedly announced broad changes in federal policy well beyond the purview of “modernizing federal technology,” which was the guise Trump used to establish DOGE.  And DOGE has taken unprecedented and illegal actions against federal workers, firing thousands at a time with little planning and even less justification.  DOGE’s mass-firings and unchecked actions are proving to be harmful to both the federal workforce and the broader economy.

    Reed noted that members of the Appropriations Committee typically work together on a bipartisan basis to seek information and conduct oversight in order to ensure that federal dollars are spent in accordance with the laws passed by Congress. 

    “But now, without authorization from Congress, DOGE is recklessly slashing its way through virtually every federal agency, from the Office of Personnel Management to Treasury to HUD, State, USAID, to the Department of Defense and more,” said Reed.  “It is vital that we understand what DOGE is and isn’t.  While Elon Musk tells the American People that DOGE is ‘maximally transparent,’ it is not.”

    Reed pointed out the American people still do not have answers to fundamental questions like:

    •           What is the scope of DOGE’s work?

    •           How many people work at DOGE? And who are they?

    •           Do they also hold jobs outside the Federal government?

    •           What are their financial holdings and potential conflicts of interest?

    •           Do they have allegiances to foreign governments?

    •           Will it respond to requests under the Freedom of Information Act?

    •           What are its plans to reform agencies?

    •           Who is DOGE firing and why?

    During his floor speech, Reed noted that when DOGE does publicly share some limited information, it is frequently wrong.  As the New York Times reported, five of DOGE’s biggest claimed savings were deleted from its website because they were inaccurate.  This includes:

    •           A cancelled USAID contract for $650 million that was counted three times;

    •           A cancelled Social Security contract was erroneously listed as being worth $232 million instead of $560,000; and

    •           A cancelled ICE contract was listed as saving $8 BILLION instead of $8 million.

    “If you’re going to name something the Department of Government Efficiency, don’t you owe it to the taxpayers to actually do a good job?” Reed asked.

    On top of having zero accountability, DOGE’s legal authority to operate is dubious.

    “DOGE is now using the hollowed shell of USDS to illegally undo the American federal government, moving from agency-to-agency cutting congressionally appropriated federal spending, priorities, and even dismantling entire agencies.  The bottom line is that DOGE is without congressional authorization and without directed funding from Congress,” said Reed.  “Based on press reports, it appears to be populated by a mixture of unelected billionaires, tech executives,  and un-vetted, unexperienced people,  including an individual who was found to have posted racist tweets. This gang is being granted access to Americans’ most sensitive data like your bank accounts, your Social Security accounts, and it would seem, a host of classified intelligence.  How are they using this information?  How are they protecting this information from our enemies? Is it being shared with outside entities?” Reed asked.

    Reed concluded: “Every single day that passes without transparency and Congressional access to information about DOGE’s funding, staffing, and scope of work is a moment too long. With the current Continuing Resolution due to expire on March 14th, we have big decisions to make. My hope is that these decisions can be made on a bipartisan basis informed by the facts. But we cannot responsibly fund the government if we do not understand how DOGE has infiltrated it and made it less efficient and responsive to the taxpayers.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Trump is Undermining American Security

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-RI), Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee; Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations; Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence; and Chris Coons (D-DE), Member of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations; as well as U.S. Representatives Adam Smith (D-Wash.), Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Committee; Gregory R. Meeks (D-NY), Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee; Jim Himes (D-CT), Ranking Member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence; and Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), Ranking Member of the House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party; issued the following joint statement in response to President Donald Trump’s systematic efforts to isolate the United States from longstanding partners and allies and decimate the federal workforce: 

    “President Trump’s early statements and actions are threatening the national security of our country. Since taking office a little more than a month ago, the president has alienated nearly every international partner and ally we have, leaving us isolated in an increasingly dangerous world as Russia, North Korea, Iran, and China work together. We need partners and allies to effectively address the multitude of national security threats we face—or could face. Yet, Trump has shown more alignment with Vladimir Putin, who threatens the international rules-based order, than with our long-standing partners and allies. This was most recently and appallingly demonstrated by Trump’s order yesterday to freeze delivery of all U.S. military aid to Ukraine, even as it endures constant bombardment and the decimation of its people.  

    “At the same time, and acting under the president’s direction, Elon Musk is destroying our federal national security workforce, terminating thousands of men and women with deep expertise and a proven commitment to securing our interests around the world. This has weakened our ability to respond to international crises by decimating our global foreign assistance investments, our nuclear safety protections, and our cyber security, just to name a few. And the federal workforce that hasn’t been fired yet is living under constant threat. Chaos at our national security departments and agencies does little to promote a secure America. It does the opposite. We should all be afraid that Trump has turned over access to these locations and our national security workforce to Musk and a collection of his staff, many of whom have no clue what they are reviewing and have never held security clearances.  

    “We are speaking out and urging others to join us before it’s too late. Because make no mistake—this is a concerted effort by Trump and Musk to dismantle our system of government and exploit our weakness to consolidate power that benefits the very countries threatening our national security. It is time to act for the sake of our national security and the American people we were elected to serve.”  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Standing strong for B.C.: Budget prepares to defend British Columbians

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Budget 2025 supports growth in B.C.’s economy to create the wealth needed for the services and programs people rely on, while managing finances carefully to strengthen B.C.’s fiscal foundation.

    The budget seeks to strengthen the Province’s fiscal position and takes the first steps in charting a long-term path to balance so government can respond to changing needs, while protecting services and growing B.C.’s economy.

    To ensure front-line services are safeguarded and B.C.’s finances are managed responsibly, the Province is reviewing all existing programs to ensure they remain relevant, efficient, that they are helping people with costs, and working to grow the economy. Government is also identifying administrative and operational efficiencies through reduced discretionary spending for travel, consulting contracts, business expenses and a hiring pause, with the exception of roles that are crucial to delivering services and programs. These measures aim to save $300 million over the 2025-26 fiscal year, and $600 million in each of the 2026-27 and 2027-28 fiscal years.

    Economic outlook
    B.C. is expected to see modest economic growth in the absence of tariffs, with real GDP growth projected at 1.8% in 2025 and 1.9% in 2026 as immigration slows and trade uncertainty persists, while inflation trends downward and housing construction remains resilient. Over the medium term (2027-29), economic growth is expected to improve, averaging 2.1% annually, supported by steady employment and wage growth, gains in consumer spending and higher exports supported by liquid natural gas production. U.S. tariffs pose a significant risk to the economic outlook.

    Budget outlook
    Budget 2025 presents an updated deficit of $9.1 billion for 2024-25, $273 million lower than forecast in the fall 2024 economic and fiscal update. The improvement is due mainly to higher corporate income tax revenues and ICBC net income, partially offset by higher spending, including for emergency response and long-term care funded by statutory authority.

    Budget 2025 projects the following declining deficits over the three-year fiscal plan period:

    • $10.9 billion for 2025-26
    • $10.2 billion for 2026-27
    • $9.9 billion for 2027-28

    Revenue outlook
    Total government revenue is forecast at $84 billion in 2025-26, $85.7 billion in 2026-27 and $88.2 billion in 2027-28. Revenue growth is mainly driven by increasing tax revenues due to recent growth in population and economic activity, as well as increasing natural resource revenues.

    The government’s revenue outlook factors in trade-related uncertainty associated with the threat of U.S. tariffs consistent with the economic outlook.

    Expense outlook
    Expenses over the three-year fiscal plan are forecast at $94.9 billion in 2025-26, $95.9 billion in 2026-27 and $98 billion 2027-28. Investments will help support the programs and services people rely on, including health care, mental health and addictions, housing, public safety, as well as helping people with costs and building a stronger economy.

    Budget 2025 includes contingencies allocations of $4 billion each year of the fiscal plan to help manage pressures for critical services and other costs that are uncertain at the time of building the budget, including costs for a new collective-bargaining mandate and emerging costs, such as responding to potential tariff impacts.

    Capital investments
    Budget 2025 invests a total of $59.9 billion in capital investments over three years, including $15.9 billion to strengthen transit and transportation infrastructure, $15.5 billion to support capital investments in health care and $4.6 billion to build, renovate and seismically upgrade schools.

    The capital plan supports 180,000 direct and indirect jobs over three years in communities throughout B.C.

    Debt affordability
    B.C.’s taxpayer-supported debt is projected to be $97.7 billion at the end of 2024-25, approximately $9.1 billion more than projected in Budget 2024. This increase is due to a higher opening balance following 2023-24, the increased deficit, and pre-borrowing to meet funding requirements early in 2025-26.

    Taxpayer-supported debt is expected to increase by $68.8 billion over the fiscal plan as the Province continues to invest in strengthening services and building more schools, hospitals, roads, bridges, transit and housing.

    The taxpayer-supported debt-to-GDP ratio, a key metric used by credit rating agencies, is forecast at 26.7% in 2025-26, 30.9% in 2026-27 and 34.4% in 2027-28. B.C.’s debt-to-GDP ratio remains one of the lowest in Canada. It is currently below that of most provinces, including Ontario and Quebec. B.C.’s debt-servicing costs remain at low levels compared to other jurisdictions.

    Successive budgets will focus on flattening debt-to-GDP over time, ensuring B.C. retains one of the lowest debt-to-GDP ratios compared to the Province’s peers.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Lamont Statement on Agreement Regarding Funding for Special Education and Nonprofits

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today released the following statement regarding an agreement with legislative leaders on funding for special education and nonprofits:

    “I’m glad that we could reach an agreement between my office and legislative leaders on increasing funding for special education and nonprofits during this current fiscal year, provided we maintain our surplus. I am hopeful that the legislature will vote on this updated bill so that I can sign it into law. Ahead of budget negotiations, I look forward to maintaining the financial discipline, open dialogue, and shared values that have allowed us to turn our state around economically and even have a surplus to invest at all.”

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Silvaco Expands Product Offering with Acquisition of Cadence’s Process Proximity Compensation Product Line

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SANTA CLARA, Calif., March 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Silvaco Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: SVCO) (“Silvaco” or the “Company”), a provider of TCAD, EDA software and SIP solutions that enable semiconductor design and digital twin modeling through AI software and innovation, today announced the strategic acquisition of the Process Proximity Compensation (“PPC”) product line of Cadence (Nasdaq: CDNS).

    The addition of the PPC product line – an optical proximity correction (“OPC”) suite of tools highly complementary to Silvaco’s EDA and TCAD suite, along with its cutting-edge technology and talented team, will strengthen Silvaco’s market position and accelerate its mission to empower customers in designing next-generation semiconductor processes and devices with greater accuracy and efficiency. The Company expects this acquisition to enhance Silvaco’s ability to offer advanced computational lithography solutions that address the increasing complexity of semiconductor manufacturing at advanced nodes.

    “Acquiring Cadence’s OPC expertise and technology marks a significant step in advancing our AI-based FTCO platform, quantum-level simulation, and hybrid Fab optimization for semiconductor and photonics mask generation,” said Babak Taheri, CEO of Silvaco. “The proven track record of the OPC business in process correction and computational lithography complements our existing capabilities, enabling us to drive enhanced innovation, precision, and AI-driven automation for our customers. This acquisition reinforces our commitment to delivering the most comprehensive solutions for semiconductor manufacturing and design.”

    “Today’s announcement accelerates our strategy of providing the leading synthesis to signoff digital full-flow solution while sharpening our focus on the faster-growing areas of our digital portfolio,” said Chin-Chi Teng, senior vice president and general manager of the Digital & Signoff Group at Cadence. “We are pleased to have the PPC team join Silvaco to help advance their next-generation computational lithography solutions.”

    As part of the transition, Silvaco will work closely with Cadence’s team to provide a seamless integration, maintaining continuity for existing customers and partners without disruption to ongoing projects or customer support. The acquired OPC product line has been adopted by industry-leading semiconductor companies. This acquisition unlocks complementary go-to-market opportunities, enabling Silvaco to enhance its EDA, TCAD, and AI-Driven Fab Technology Co-Optimization™ offerings while fostering deep customer collaborations. The Company expects the existing OPC customers to benefit from Silvaco’s responsive customer support and expanded R&D collaboration, driving technology development and adoption.

    “We closed 2024 with record results for bookings and revenue, driven by sustained demand for our digital twin modeling platform and growth in key semiconductor markets,” said Dr. Babak Taheri. “With the addition of these new capabilities and our focus on execution, we will continue to deliver value for our customers and stakeholders, setting the stage for further growth in 2025.”

    About Silvaco
    Silvaco is a provider of TCAD, EDA software, and SIP solutions that enable semiconductor design and digital twin modeling through AI software and innovation. Silvaco’s solutions are used for semiconductor and photonics processes, devices, and systems development across display, power devices, automotive, memory, high performance compute, foundries, photonics, internet of things, and 5G/6G mobile markets for complex SoC design. Silvaco is headquartered in Santa Clara, California, and has a global presence with offices located in North America, Europe, Brazil, China, Japan, Korea, Singapore, and Taiwan. Learn more at silvaco.com.

    Safe Harbor Statement
    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including but not limited to, statements regarding Silvaco’s proposed acquisition of Cadence’s PPC product line, technologies and product offerings, business strategy, plans and opportunities, industry and market trends including TAM estimates and the expected benefits and impact of the proposed transaction and combined business on Silvaco’s growth. Forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, estimates, forecasts and projections. Words such as “expect,” “anticipate,” “should,” “believe,” “hope,” “target,” “project,” “goals,” “estimate,” “potential,” “predict,” “may,” “will,” “might,” “could,” “intend,” “shall” and variations of these terms and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside Silvaco’s control. For example, the markets for Silvaco’s products and services may develop more slowly than expected or than they have in the past; operating results and cash flows may fluctuate more than expected; Silvaco may fail to successfully integrate Cadence’s PPC product line; Silvaco may fail to realize the anticipated benefits of the proposed acquisition; Silvaco may incur unanticipated costs or other liabilities in connection with acquiring or integrating Cadence’s PPC product line; the potential impact of the announcement or consummation of the transaction on relationships with third parties, including employees, customers, partners and competitors; Silvaco may be unable to motivate and retain key personnel; changes in or failure to comply with legislation or government regulations could affect post-closing operations and results of operations; and macroeconomic and geopolitical conditions could deteriorate. The forward-looking statements included in this press release represent Silvaco’s views as of the date of this press release, and Silvaco disclaims any obligation to update any of them publicly in light of new information or future events.

    Investor Contact:
    Greg McNiff
    investors@silvaco.com

    Media Contact:
    Farhad Hayat
    press@silvaco.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FDA Roundup: March 4, 2025

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    For Immediate Release:
    March 04, 2025

    Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration is providing an at-a-glance summary of news from around the agency:

    On Monday, the FDA approved the first generics of Xarelto (rivaroxaban), 2.5 mg, tablets to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events in adult patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) and to reduce the risk of major thrombotic vascular events in adult patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD), including patients who have recently undergone a lower extremity revascularization procedure due to symptomatic PAD. Anticoagulants (blood thinners) are among the most commonly prescribed medications in the U.S., and Monday’s approval of the first generics of rivaroxaban, 2.5 mg, tablets will make a direct impact on American patients who rely on anticoagulant medications. Approving safe and effective generics to help provide patients more treatment options continues to be a priority for the FDA.
    On Friday, the FDA informed sponsors of testosterone products of new labeling changes resulting from the results of the Testosterone Replacement Therapy for Assessment of Long-term Vascular Events and Efficacy Response in Hypogonadal Men (TRAVERSE) clinical trial and the results from required postmarket ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) studies. The labeling changes include a new warning about the risk of increased blood pressure for testosterone products that currently do not contain such labeling information.
    On Friday, the FDA approved TNKase (tenecteplase) to treat acute ischemic stroke (AIS) in adults. The most common adverse reaction is bleeding. TNKase is for intravenous administration only and recommended dosing is available in the prescribing information. 

    Related Information

    Related Information

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    Boilerplate

    The FDA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, protects the public health by assuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines and other biological products for human use, and medical devices. The agency also is responsible for the safety and security of our nation’s food supply, cosmetics, dietary supplements, radiation-emitting electronic products, and for regulating tobacco products.

    Inquiries

    Consumer:
    888-INFO-FDA

    Content current as of:
    03/04/2025

    Regulated Product(s)

    Follow FDA

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: RI250 Commission, Elected Officials, Community Leaders Hold Portrait Presentation Commemorating First Rhode Island Regiment

    Source: US State of Rhode Island

    PROVIDENCE, RI � Secretary of State Gregg M. Amore, Chair of the RI250 Commission, was joined by Governor Dan McKee, Speaker of the House K. Joseph Shekarchi, Senator Walter S. Felag, Jr., Executive Director of the Tomaquag Museum Lor�n Spears, historian and author of From Slaves to Soldiers Bob Geake, Founder and Executive Director of Rhode Island Slave History Medallions Charles Roberts, Executive Director of the Newport Historical Society Rebecca Bertrand, and Collections Manager and Registrar at the Museum of the American Revolution Keith Minsinger for a special presentation of “Brave Men as Ever Fought,” a portrait commemorating the First Rhode Island Regiment.

    “The history of the First Rhode Island Regiment is unique to Rhode Island, and all Rhode Islanders should know the story of these brave individuals who fought in the first integrated military regiment,” said Secretary of State Gregg M. Amore. “It’s truly an honor to display this portrait. I thank both the Museum of the American Revolution for their partnership and the historians who joined us today for ensuring this history is never forgotten.”

    In 1778, Rhode Island reorganized its regiments of the Continental Army and authorized the recruitment of enslaved men into the First Rhode Island Regiment. Over 130 free Black men and formerly enslaved men joined the regiment that year. The enslaved men were granted their freedom immediately upon their enlistment, the first and only time such an offer had been made by a state government during the Revolutionary War.

    The First Rhode Island Regiment, comprised of Black, Indigenous, and white soldiers, would go on to fight during the Battle of Rhode Island in 1778. In 1780, Rhode Island united its two Continental Army regiments into a unit known as the Rhode Island Regiment. Two full companies of that regiment were made up of Black and Indigenous enlisted men. The Rhode Island Regiment would go on to serve in the decisive Siege of Yorktown in 1781.

    Commissioned by the Museum of the American Revolution in 2020, renowned historical military artist Don Troiani (b.1949) recreated what the Rhode Island Regiment’s march through Philadelphia in 1781 might have looked like. As part of the scene, 15-year-old African American sailor James Forten looks on as the Regiment marches past the brick fa�ade of the Pennsylvania State House (now known as Independence Hall). Later in life, Forten became a successful business owner, abolitionist, and community leader, and he described what he witnessed back in 1781 to his friend and fellow abolitionist William Lloyd Garrison:

    “I well remember that when the New England Regiment marched through this city on their way to attack the English Army under the command of Lord Cornwallis, there was several Companies of Coloured People, as brave Men as ever fought.”

    Forten was referring to the Rhode Island Regiment.

    “As our nation prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary in 2026, it is timely and appropriate to ensure that we remember all those who served, struggled, and sacrificed to secure American Independence,” said Museum of the American Revolution President and CEO Dr. R. Scott Stephenson. “We owe a debt of gratitude to those Rhode Islanders of color who wore the uniform and saluted the flag of the fledgling United States in spite of the fact that for most of them, equality was an elusive dream. The Museum is thrilled to loan ‘Brave Men as Ever Fought’ to the Rhode Island Department of State to commemorate the Rhode Island Regiment’s service.”

    The portrait is on loan to the RI Department of State from the Museum of the American Revolution. After the portrait presentation ceremony, the portrait will be displayed in the State House Royal Charter Museum on the first floor of the building until late June.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: “Europe must ensure its own defense, not rely on US”

    Source: France-Diplomatie – Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Development

    Interview given by M. Jean-Noël Barrot, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, to France Inter (Paris, March 3, 2025)

    (…)

    On Friday evening, millions of French people saw the United States President repeatedly yelling: “You’re gambling with World War III”. World War III – the words were uttered by Donald Trump. Is that something to be afraid of?

    THE MINISTER – It’s not the first time Donald Trump has uttered those words. Would we rather the press conference had gone differently? The answer is yes. Do we see Volodymyr Zelenskyy as a great resistance figure, a hero? The answer is yes. Is it our role to issue indictments or lessons in morality? No.

    It’s not about either indictments or lessons in morality. I’m asking you the question. What do you say to French people who were terrified as they watched television on Friday evening? Is there a threat, yes or no?

    THE MINISTER – Of course. Never has the risk of a war on the European continent, in the European Union, been so great, because for nearly 15 years now the threat has constantly been getting closer, and the front line has constantly been getting closer. That’s why France, President Macron, has been saying for seven years now that we must step up our defence to deter the threat. What we’re witnessing today, what we witnessed in London yesterday, was a whole portion of Europeans waking up after refusing to see the reality of things.

    And are we also witnessing a spectacular rapprochement between Donald Trump’s United States and Russia? Last night the US Secretary of Defence said the United States will be ceasing all offensive cyber operations, all digital attacks against Russia.

    THE MINISTER – The United States has chosen to embark on dialogue with Vladimir Putin’s Russia to bring it to the negotiating table and put an end to the war in Ukraine. We’ve always said that we’ve attempted dialogue and it hasn’t had all the effects we might have expected, and that we must get Vladimir Putin to negotiate through pressure. That’s the strategy we’re continuing to conduct here in Europe…

    We Europeans, not the Americans obviously.

    THE MINISTER – We Europeans. As for that decision, it’s true that I found it a bit difficult to understand, because when it comes to cyber attacks the European Union countries are constantly under that form of attack by Russia.

    That’s it. In other words, can we no longer rely on the Americans to defend us in that way, as you say?

    THE MINISTER – I think it’s in the United States’ interest, it’s even the United States natural destination to be on the side of Ukraine. If Ukraine were to capitulate, it would not only be terrible news for that country, terrible news for the Europeans, but it would be a terrible admission of weakness for the United States of America. And it’s in this spirit that we’re talking to the US administration at every level.

    In this spirit, let’s be clear about this: is that what emerged from yesterday’s summit in London – that we have the bulk of the work to do, as the British Prime Minister said, to defend Europe and resolve this conflict, but not without the Americans? Never without the Americans? Can’t we do it without the Americans? Is that what emerged?

    THE MINISTER – What emerged from yesterday’s summit in London were two things. In the short term, and to put an end to Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine, we want the United States, through pressure, to get Vladimir Putin to come to the negotiating table and agree to put an end, once and for all, to these imperialist ambitions that have been pushing the front line closer and closer to us. And the other ambition…

    At the risk of seeing them both talking, Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, without us and without the Ukrainians.

    THE MINISTER – And the second thing, which is just as important, is that we don’t want to be in the situation we’re in today ever again. In other words, Europe must ensure its own defence and its own security, and we must put in place the necessary resources so that we never again have to ask the United States what it can do for European security, so we can ensure it ourselves.

    At the risk of seeing Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump talking to each other about a ceasefire, without us and without the Ukrainians.

    THE MINISTER – Everyone can talk to whoever they wish. What’s important for us is for this war to end and for the peace that is reached to be accompanied by enough guarantees to ensure the threat never moves closer to our borders again.

    Well, on that point, we read in the press this morning that the British and French want a one-month truce in the fighting. So is this truce in the fighting a prerequisite for being able to discuss peace?

    THE MINISTER – It’s a prerequisite, because this truce in the air, at sea and on energy infrastructure will enable us to confirm Vladimir Putin’s good faith, when he engages in that truce. And that’s when the real peace negotiations will start – because we want peace, but we want a solid and durable peace. A peace that definitively ends what’s been happening for 15 years in the east of the continent.

    Understood. When you say in the air, at sea and on logistical infrastructure, does that mean no withdrawal of troops on the ground, no withdrawal of Russian troops on the ground?

    THE MINISTER – Initially, it’s a way of confirming that Russia really is willing to put an end to this war.

    What makes you think the Russians and the Americans will accept it, this French and British plan?

    THE MINISTER – Because during the discussions we had last Monday, a week ago to the day, with President Donald Trump and his team, it was in that spirit that he was thinking about a resolution to the crisis.

    Is Emmanuel Macron expected to return to Washington to talk about it again?

    THE MINISTER – It’s not expected as of today, and the contacts between Emmanuel Macron and Donald Trump are very frequent.

    When Emmanuel Macron and Keir Starmer, the British Prime Minister, talk about sending soldiers to Ukraine in a second phase, once the truce has been obtained, does that mean taking on board the risk of a direct confrontation with the Russians?

    THE MINISTER – No, it’s about creating the conditions through military capabilities, once peace has been reached, to definitively deter the threat. It’s what we observe in Europe and other places in the world: through the presence of military capabilities, the threat doesn’t materialize, preventing, as it were, the response from coming.

    OK. So what’s the reaction of our European partners? Giorgia Meloni, for example, the Italian leader, is against – absolutely against – sending troops on the ground to Ukraine?

    THE MINISTER – All the Europeans are fully conscious, because 10 years ago, almost to the day, we saw the Minsk agreements and a ceasefire in Ukraine that was violated 20 times before Russia invaded Ukraine. Everyone’s conscious that a ceasefire isn’t sufficient, that peace must be accompanied by every guarantee to ensure that the fighting stops definitively and that Ukraine’s sovereignty can be respected.

    But how are the 27 presenting themselves? Because on Thursday there’s a meeting that’s really absolutely crucial for Europe’s future.

    THE MINISTER – Indeed, everyone is convinced that it’s the Europeans who will provide the bulk of these military capabilities, and then each according to their capabilities and their wishes.

    Well, we need your thoughts on the discussion about the nuclear deterrent which Emmanuel Macron says he’s ready to begin at the request of the future German chancellor. So France is the only [EU] country to possess a nuclear weapon. Is it going to – how shall I put it? – make that nuclear weapon available to our European allies, as the French far right accuses it of?

    THE MINISTER – The answer is no. What President Macron has said is that he’s ready to ensure that those European partners who so wish can deepen strategic dialogue with us about this issue, which may be linked, if need be, with exercises by deterrence forces. The idea isn’t to share the nuclear deterrent, but to develop a culture of strategic deterrence in Europe.

    And how does that happen in practical terms? Does it mean that in the future, the French President can decided to press the red button if the vital interests of, for example, the Baltic countries or Poland or Romania or Moldova are threatened?

    THE MINISTER – It goes through appropriate channels and not in the France Inter studio, because when it comes to the nuclear deterrent there’s a form of ambiguity that surrounds it and guarantees its effectiveness.

    What does a form of ambiguity mean?

    THE MINISTER – Well, you don’t say everything about the nuclear deterrent.

    Fine. Do you really think a resumption of dialogue between Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Donald Trump is possible?

    THE MINISTER – Yes, I think it’s possible. I think there’s a desire on both sides, because there’s a shared awareness that it’s in Ukraine’s interest, in the Europeans’ interest and in the Americans’ interest to ensure we halt Vladimir Putin’s imperialist tendencies.

    Is France working on that?

    THE MINISTER – France is obviously working on it.

    How?

    THE MINISTER – First of all by talking regularly to both parties. I myself spoke at the weekend to my US counterpart and my Ukrainian counterpart, and I got an appreciation of the extent to which the intention really is to re-engage in dialogue. And the Europeans are also going to continue the discussions, and in the wake of yesterday’s summit I’ll be bringing together the Europeans from Europe’s northern flank this morning, to talk about the conversations held yesterday evening. (…)./.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: As Secretary Hegseth Considers Gutting Workforce for Reducing Civilian Deaths, Pentagon Policy Nominee Agrees with Warren: Civilian Harm Prevention is Crucial to National Security

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    March 04, 2025
    Trump Defense Policy Nominee Elbridge Colby agrees that following the laws of war is “a very important part of the picture that I think is part of the role of the USDP.” 
    Video of Exchange (YouTube) 
    Washington, D.C. – At a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Personnel, questioned Mr. Elbridge Colby, nominee for Under Secretary of Defense for Policy (USD(P)) about his vision to prioritize civilian harm prevention. Senator Warren also underscored the danger of President Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth firing top Judge Advocates General last month. 
    Mr. Colby agreed that preventing civilian deaths strengthens U.S. national security, including by reducing the risks to our own troops. This comes as the Washington Post reports that the Pentagon is set to make “deep cuts to the civilian workforce focused on reducing civilian harm in U.S. military operations.” Senator Warren highlighted that preventing civilian harm is not a partisan issue. In fact, Secretaries of Defense under President Trump’s first term and under President Biden all took steps to prevent civilian harm. 
    “Following the laws of war helps set us apart from terrorists and from adversaries like Russia, which has targeted civilians in Ukraine,” said Senator Warren. 
    “Observing the laws of war, understanding them in a reasonable way – that’s consistent with combat effectiveness and military effectiveness and achieving our goals in deterrence,” said Mr. Colby. “I think that’s a very important part of the picture that I think is part of the role of the (Under Secretary of Defense for Policy), if confirmed.” 
    Senator Warren also called attention to, and Mr. Colby agreed with, the importance of the Judge Advocate General’s Corps, whom American troops rely on for legal advice and Senator Lindsey Graham has praised as “the conscience of the military.”
    Transcript: Hearing to Consider the Nomination of Mr. Elbridge A. Colby to be Under Secretary of Defense for PolicySenate Armed Services CommitteeMarch 4, 2025 
    Senator Elizabeth Warren: Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and congratulations on your nomination, Mr. Colby. The U.S. military does not target innocent civilians. Not only because that’s what’s right, it is also that’s what’s effective. General Stanley McChrystal coined the term “insurgent math” – you may remember hearing about this – meaning that for every innocent civilian you kill, you create 10 new enemies. U.S. strikes killed as many as 48,000 civilians between 2001 and 2021. You can do the math on that. 
    Now, most people know that killing civilians is wrong and should be rare. And when it has happened, our troops file reports. But too often those reports don’t actually receive a response from anyone, and we don’t learn how to avoid future accidents that result in civilian deaths. 
    And that’s why Congress passed several reforms into law to reduce civilian harm and improve our guidance for our servicemembers, including establishing the Civilian Protection Center of Excellence. This Center helps make military operations more effective and it also supports troops in preventing and responding to civilian harm. 
    So let me ask you, Mr. Colby: if confirmed, will you oversee implementation of these reforms? Do you agree that preventing civilian deaths enhances U.S. national security, including reducing the risks to our own troops?
    Mr. Elbridge Colby, nominee for Under Secretary of Defense for Policy: I do agree with that, Senator. 
    Senator Warren: Good, I’m glad to hear that. It’s very important. This isn’t a partisan issue. During the first Trump Administration, the Pentagon grew concerned about the number of civilian deaths resulting from operations that were in place to try to defeat ISIS and it launched a study. Secretaries Mattis, Esper, and Austin all took steps to improve civilian harm prevention across the administrations. So, today, the Center of Excellence helps commanders to sharpen their campaign plans so they can make smarter decisions about strikes that they need to deploy.
    So Mr. Colby, do you agree that commanders can make better decisions in the field when they’re equipped with training on how to avoid civilian casualties?
    Mr. Colby: I do, Senator. 
    Senator Warren: Good, I’m glad to hear that. Following the laws of war helps set us apart from terrorists and from adversaries like Russia, which has targeted civilians in Ukraine. And American troops also rely on the Judge Advocate General’s Corps for legal advice. Senator Graham – who himself was a JAG – rightly called JAGs “the conscience of the military.” 
    Mr. Colby, do you think it’s important that commanders have legal advice they can count on and trust?
    Mr. Colby: I do, Senator. 
    Senator Warren: Secretary Hegseth’s outspoken disregard for the rules of war endangers U.S. troops, and his firing of the top military lawyers of the Army, the Navy, and the Air Force last month and his plans to reduce the rank of JAG leadership from a three-star role to a two-star role are deeply concerning. 
    If confirmed as Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, your views will send a message from the top about whether the laws of war matter. I urge you to take this seriously. I appreciate your answers today. If you want to expand on any of them you’re welcome to do so. 
    Mr. Colby: Thank you, Senator. I’ve seen the reporters in the press, so I can’t speak about it authoritatively. I trust Secretary Hegseth’s judgement. What I would say is that, if confirmed, I certainly would take the laws of war very seriously. It’s something I’ve studied in the past and thought about a great deal. It’s part of the overall “Ends, Ways, Means and the Rational Use of Military Power.” Again, not to be too sanguine about it or blaise, but to say that observing the laws of war, understanding them in a reasonable way – that’s consistent with combat effectiveness and military effectiveness and achieving our goals in deterrence. I think that’s a very important part of the picture that I think is part of the role of the USDP, if confirmed.
    Senator Warren: I appreciate that Mr. Colby. I think that helps keep our warfighters safer and I also think it helps keep our nation safer. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Schiff, Colleagues to Trump: Fire Elon Musk, Reinstate Agency Leaders and Federal Watchdogs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Padilla, Schiff, Colleagues to Trump: Fire Elon Musk, Reinstate Agency Leaders and Federal Watchdogs

    Democratic lawmakers demand Trump reinstate fired Senate-confirmed officials and address Musk’s conflicts of interest, cite officials’ investigations and prosecutions of Musk’s companies
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff (both D-Calif.) joined 40 of their Congressional Democratic colleagues in raising concerns about President Donald Trump’s unlawful firings of dozens of independent agency heads and Inspectors General (IGs), and calling attention to how many of these firings appear to benefit Elon Musk. The lawmakers also urged Trump to immediately reinstate the illegally fired individuals and remove Musk from his government role with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), on which there are still very few details, unless he addresses his conflicts of interest. 
    Musk and his companies have been the subject of at least 20 recent government investigations or prosecutions, including for possible violations of federal safety and labor laws. President Trump and Elon Musk’s removals of agency heads and career civil servants have affected at least 11 federal agencies that are conducting over 32 ongoing investigations, complaints, or enforcement actions against Musk’s companies.
    The lawmakers warned that failing to hold Musk accountable hurts American citizens and threatens the democratic system of checks and balances.
    “Nearly all of your decisions you made about who to fire appear to benefit Mr. Musk, and many target individuals and agencies that are currently investigating or prosecuting Mr. Musk or his companies for unlawful behavior,” wrote the lawmakers. “Many of these individuals have legal protections dictating why and how they can be removed from office. … Altogether, these firings either directly benefit Mr. Musk and his companies or remove guardrails that would hold them accountable to the rule of law.”
    “These firings have removed the exact individuals in our government who would hold Mr. Musk and his companies accountable for following the law and protect everyday Americans from threats to their health, welfare, safety, and economic well-being,” continued the lawmakers.
    The lawmakers’ letter lists several agency heads and watchdogs who were improperly fired while involved in oversight surrounding Musk, including but not limited to: National Labor Relations Board Chair Gwynne Wilcox, Federal Election Commission (FEC) Chair Ellen Weintraub, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Commissioners Jocelyn Samuels and Charlotte Burrow, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Inspector General Phyllis Fong.
    Several of Trump’s orders contradict legal protections for the relevant officials. For example, federal law requires the president to notify Congress before removing an inspector general, but Trump did not do so before firing over a dozen IGs. Shortly after the terminations, Senators Padilla and Schiff joined a letter to President Trump demanding that the IGs be reinstated. President Trump has violated federal law with respect to numerous other agency officials, including the Office of the Special Counsel, the head of the Merit Service Protection Board, and a member of the National Labor Relations Board. Federal courts have already intervened against many of these presidential actions.
    The letter was led by Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Cory Booker (D-N.J.), along with House Oversight Committee Ranking Member Gerry Connolly (D-Va.-11) and House Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Jamie Raskin (D-Md.-08). In addition to Padilla and Schiff, the letter is also signed by Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), as well as Representatives Becca Balint (D-Vt.-AL), Donald Beyer (D-Va.-08), Julia Brownley (D-Calif.-26), Yvette Clarke (D-N.Y.-09), Emanuel Cleaver (D-Mo.-05), Steve Cohen (D-Tenn.-09), Danny Davis (D-Ill.-07), Mark DeSaulnier (D-Calif.-10), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (D-Ill.-04), Robert Garcia (D-Calif.-42), Raúl Grijalva (D-Ariz.-07), Henry C. “Hank” Johnson (D-Ga.-04), Robin Kelly (D-Ill.-02), Ro Khanna (D-Calif.-17), Summer Lee (D-Pa.-12), Mike Levin (D-Calif.-49), Doris Matsui (D-Calif.-07), LaMonica McIver (D-N.J.-10), Seth Moulton (D-Mass.-06), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.-AL), Johnny Olszewski (D-Md.-02), Delia C. Ramirez (D-Ill.-03), Mary Gay Scanlon (D-Pa.-05), Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.-09), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.-01), Suhas Subramanyam (D-Va.-10), Dina Titus (D-Nev.-01), Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.-12), Jill Tokuda (D-Hawai’i-02), Paul Tonko (D-N.Y.-20), and Maxine Waters (D-Calif.-43).
    Senators Padilla and Schiff have fought against the Trump Administration’s federal workforce cuts and Inspectors General firings. Last month, Padilla, Schiff, and all other Senate Judiciary Committee Democrats demanded answers from Trump Administration nominees and acting officials on the removal or reassignment of career law enforcement officials across the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Padilla condemned Trump’s attempt to unlawfully fire more than a dozen Inspectors General during a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing. He previously sounded the alarm on concerning reports that DOGE will make wide-ranging, harmful cuts to the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) workforce and programs, hampering HUD’s ability to support vulnerable communities and combat the housing and homelessness crises. As Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration, Padilla also denounced the illegal firing of FEC Chair Weintraub and led 10 Democratic Senators to demand President Trump rescind this decision. 
    Full text of the letter is available here and below:
    Dear President Trump:
    We are concerned that you have engaged in an unlawful firing spree that includes dozens of Senate-confirmed government officials. Many of the individuals you have targeted lead federal agencies and offices that are investigating or prosecuting companies belonging to Elon Musk, one of your top advisors, for violations of a wide swath of federal safety, labor, intelligence, and other rules and laws. The firings of these officials threaten our democratic system of checks and balances and fail to hold Mr. Musk accountable for actions that may have hurt workers, endangered national security and citizens’ and small businesses’ data, ripped off taxpayers, damaged the environment, and broken federal election rules.
    You have fired scores of Senate-confirmed government officials over the past three weeks, including many individuals who have legal protections dictating why and how they can be removed from office. For example, federal law requires the president to notify Congress before removing an inspector general (IG) from office, but you did not do so before firing over a dozen IGs during your first week in office. You also failed to set forth the specific and substantive rationale for each IG’s firing. Members of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) can be removed “for neglect of duty or malfeasance in office, but for no other cause,” and you removed an NLRB member with no justification. These and other firings are illegal.
    Nearly all of your decisions you made about who to fire appear to benefit Mr. Musk, and many target individuals and agencies that are currently investigating or prosecuting Mr. Musk or his companies for unlawful behavior. The fired individuals directly involved in pending or previous actions related to Mr. Musk and businesses include:
    NLRB Chair Gwynne Wilcox. In January 2024, the NLRB charged Mr. Musk’s astronautics company SpaceX with engaging in unfair labor practices; the NLRB also currently has at least a dozen unfair labor practices cases open against Mr. Musk’s automotive company Tesla;
    FEC Chair Ellen Weintraub. In 2024, the FEC adjudicated cases that alleged Mr. Musk may have violated campaign finance laws;
    Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) Commissioners Jocelyn Samuels and Charlotte Burrows. In September 2023, the EEOC sued Tesla for racial harassment and retaliation;
    U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) IG Phyllis Fong. In December 2022, the USDA IG investigated potential animal welfare violations at Musk’s brain implant company Neuralink; and
    U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) IG Paul Martin. The USAID IG was inspecting the use of Starlink terminals to support Ukraine.
    You also fired three other IGs from agencies that were investigating or had punished Mr. Musk’s companies.
    U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) IG Eric Soskin. In January 2025, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, an agency under the DOT, opened an investigation into Tesla over safety concerns in its remote and self-driving vehicles, and in September 2024, the Federal Aviation Administration, which is also part of DOT, proposed fining SpaceX $630,000 for failing to follow license requirements during rocket launches;
    U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) IG Robert Storch. In December 2024, the DoD IG reportedly opened an investigation into repeated failures by Musk and SpaceX to disclose their meetings with foreign leaders; and
    U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) IG Larry Turner. The Occupational Health and Safety Administration, part of the DOL, “has opened probes into and fined SpaceX, Tesla and Boring Company for worker injuries or unsafe working conditions.”
    You have also fired numerous other agency leaders and IGs who would have provided a check on potential wrongdoing by Musk and his companies. These federal watchdogs could have held Musk and his associates accountable for future violations of the law. These individuals include:
    Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) IG Sean O’Donnell. In 2019 and 2022, the EPA settled lawsuits with Tesla over Clean Air Act and hazardous waste law violations;
    U.S. Department of Interior (DOI) IG Mark Greenblatt. DOI had reviewed Musk’s rocket launch facility Starbase;
    U.S. Office of Government Ethics (OGE) Director David Huitema. OGE is an independent agency responsive for preventing conflicts of interest among federal officers and employees;
    U.S. Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) Member Cathy Harris. MSPB is an independent agency that protects civil servants against partisan political and other prohibited practices;
    Federal Labor Relations Authority (FLRA) Chair Susan Tsui Grundmann. FLRA is an independent agency that oversees labor-management relations for federal employees; and
    U.S. Office of the Special Counsel (OSC) Special Counsel Hampton Dellinger. OSC is an independent agency that protects whistleblowers and enforces restrictions on partisan political activity by government employees.
    Altogether, these firings either directly benefit Mr. Musk and his companies or remove guardrails that would hold them accountable to the rule of law. The firings also hurt everyday Americans. The individuals you have fired served important watchdog roles in our government. IGs “protect taxpayer money by rooting out corruption, fraud, waste and mismanagement.” Minority commissioners on multi-member commissions of independent agencies provide dissenting opinions to the majority and allow for balanced decision-making over significant issues. In addition to removing agency leadership, you and Mr. Musk are removing career civil servants who would conduct investigations and enforcement actions against lawbreakers. The impacts are vast: in total, your removals of agency heads and career civil servants have affected at least eleven federal agencies with more than thirty-two ongoing investigations, complaints, or enforcement actions on Mr. Musk’s companies.
    Mr. Musk has failed to address conflicts of interest related to his involvement in the Department of Government Efficiency while serving as CEO of multiple companies that have significant interests before the federal government. Musk is required to comply with federal conflict of interest prohibitions (18 U.S.C. § 208) that prohibit him “from personally and substantially participating in any particular matter that would have a direct and predictable effect on his financial interests,” but the White House has stated that he will be in charge of policing his own compliance with the law, and he has provided no indication of whether he is doing so. Now, these firings have removed the exact individuals in our government who would hold Mr. Musk and his companies accountable for following the law and protect everyday Americans from threats to their health, welfare, safety, and economic well-being. We urge you to immediately reinstate the illegally fired individuals and remove Mr. Musk from his government role unless he addresses his massive and glaring conflicts of interest as required by law.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Johnson Joins Sen. Cruz in Introducing Legislation to Dismantle China’s State-Sponsored Organ Harvesting Industry and Human Rights Abuses

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Ron Johnson
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) joined U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) in introducing the Falun Gong Protection Act. This bill would require sanctions on those responsible for or complicit in the involuntary harvesting of organs and also require the Secretary of State to report to Congress on organ transplant policies and practices of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The CCP continues to engage in these atrocities, including against Falun Gong practitioners.
    Sens. Johnson and Cruz were joined by Senators Rick Scott (R-Fla.) and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.). 
    The full text of the legislation can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –