NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaine Announces HELP Subcommittee Assignments for 119th Congress

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) announced his subcommittee assignments as a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee. Kaine will serve on the HELP Subcommittee on Education and the American Family and the Subcommittee on Employment and Workplace Safety:
    “I’m looking forward to serving on the HELP Subcommittees on Education, and Employment and Workplace Safety. One of my top priorities is addressing workforce shortages, including by passing my bipartisan JOBS Act, and supporting Virginia businesses and workers. I will also use my role on these subcommittees to do everything I can to stop any attempt to eliminate the Department of Education, and I’m committed to taking steps to support our nation’s educators, schools, higher education institutions, and students. I’m excited to work with my colleagues on these issues.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen Speaks with New Hampshire Chamber of Commerce Leaders About Potential Harms from Delayed Trump Tariffs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen
    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) spoke with representatives from local Chambers of Commerce across New Hampshire about the harmful impact of the potential Trump tariffs on Mexico and Canada, New Hampshire’s largest trading partner. As of earlier this week, these tariffs have been delayed 30 days, but if they go into effect, prices on everything from gas to cars to groceries could skyrocket, hurting Granite Staters and Granite State businesses. Representatives from the New Hampshire Business and Industry Association, Exeter Area Chamber of Commerce, Hampton Area Chamber of Commerce, Upper Valley Business Alliance, Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce, Greater Monadnock Collaborative, Greater Dover Chamber of Commerce, Mt. Washington Valley Chamber and the Greater Portsmouth Chamber Collaborative joined the virtual conversation.
    “I’ve spoken with business leaders from around the Granite State, and they’ve told me that what they need to grow and create good-paying jobs that boost our economy is stability and certainty about the economic policies they are facing,” said Shaheen. “To be clear, I’m glad that President Trump has delayed these tariffs, but a delay is not enough. We need to focus on lowering costs for working Americans, not starting a needless and dangerous trade war that would increase prices on critical items and create more uncertainty.”
    Shaheen immediately condemned the proposed Trump tariffs after they were announced. On Tuesday night, Shaheen took to the Senate floor to detail the harmful impacts that the delayed Trump tariffs would have on Granite Staters. Last week, Shaheen led the New Hampshire Congressional Delegation in sending a letter to the White House urging him not to impose tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China which are expected to cost the average American $1,200 per year.
    Earlier this year, Shaheen introduced new legislation with U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Tim Kaine (D-VA) to shield American businesses and consumers from rising prices imposed by tariffs on imported goods into the United States. The Senators’ legislation would keep costs down for imported goods by limiting the authority of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA)—which allows a President to immediately place unlimited tariffs after declaring a national emergency—while preserving IEEPA’s use for sanctions and other tools.
    After the November election, a multitude of business leaders verified that, if the President placed sweeping tariffs as promised, they’d be forced to raise prices on consumers. The CEO of Best Buy said, “the vast majority of that tariff will probably be passed on to the consumer as a price increase.” The CFO of Walmart said, “there will probably be cases where prices will go up for consumers.” The CEO of Columbia Sportswear said, “we’re set to raise prices” and “it’s going to be very, very difficult to keep products affordable.” The CEO of AutoZone said, “if we get tariffs, we will pass those tariff costs back to the consumer.” The President of a Texas-based Lipow Oil Associates said, “The prices at the pump are going to go up.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Leads Colleagues in Calling for Quick Implementation of the Social Security Fairness Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) led 27 colleagues in calling for the immediate implementation of the Social Security Fairness Act to provide full Social Security benefits for millions of public servants impacted by Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO). The Social Security Fairness Act, which fully repeals the two unfair Social Security provisions WEP and GPO, was signed into law on January 5, 2024 after Cassidy successfully secured a vote on the Senate floor.  
    “The Social Security Fairness Act restores full Social Security benefits for the millions of teachers, police officers, firefighters, and other public servants who are unfairly penalized by the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO),” wrote the senators. 
    “The Social Security Administration’s website currently states, ‘SSA expects that it could take more than one year to adjust benefits and pay all retroactive benefits’ owed under the Social Security Fairness Act. We call for the immediate implementation of this legislation to provide prompt relief to the millions of Americans impacted by WEP and GPO,” continued the senators. 
    Cassidy was joined by U.S. Senators Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Susan Collins (R-ME), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), John Fetterman (D-PA), Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Alex Padilla (D-CA), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Angus King (I-ME), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Mark Warner (D-VA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and Martin Heinrich (D-NM). 
    Read the full letter here or below:
    Dear Acting Commissioner King,
    We write to you concerning the implementation of the Social Security Fairness Act (Public Law No: 118-273). This legislation passed Congress on an overwhelmingly bipartisan basis on December 21st, 2024 and was signed into law on January 5th, 2025. The Social Security Fairness Act restores full Social Security benefits for the millions of teachers, police officers, firefighters, and other public servants who are unfairly penalized by the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO).
    The Social Security Administration’s website currently states, “SSA expects that it could take more than one year to adjust benefits and pay all retroactive benefits” owed under the Social Security Fairness Act. We call for the immediate implementation of this legislation to provide prompt relief to the millions of Americans impacted by WEP and GPO. In the interim, we request monthly updates and briefings regarding the status of the Social Security Administration’s progress towards implementing the Social Security Fairness Act. 
    Thank you for your prompt attention to this important matter.  We look forward to your response.
    Background
    Cassidy played a pivotal role in getting the Social Security Fairness Act signed into law on January 5, 2025. Cassidy successfully demanded a vote on the Social Security Fairness Act. In July and again in December, Cassidy spoke on the U.S. Senate floor urging Congress to repeal WEP and GPO as part of his “Big Idea” to save, strengthen, and secure America’s retirement system. In June, Cassidy entered a statement into the record urging the repeal of WEP and GPO ahead of the U.S. Senate Finance Subcommittee field hearing on Social Security. 
    Cassidy is a long-time cosponsor of the Social Security Fairness Act in the Senate, being an original cosponsor since he became a Member of Congress in 2009. He led the introduction of the legislation in the 117th and 116th Congress.
    Cassidy led a bipartisan working group to preserve and protect Social Security. He released the inaugural Bill on the Hill video where he asked Capitol Hill visitors from across the country their thoughts on the looming benefit cuts to Social Security and presented his “Big Idea.”
    Last March, Cassidy grilled U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen on President Biden’s plan to address Social Security, to which Secretary Yellen admitted “the president doesn’t have a plan,” to save Social Security.
    Cassidy has discussed the “Big Idea” at a public forum with AARP on the future of Social Security, outlined his Social Security plan in a fireside chat with the Bipartisan Policy Committee, and authored op-eds in the Washington Examiner in July, the Wall Street Journal in March, and State Affairs and Washington Post in May. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: CBP Flies Air Security Over Caesars Superdome for Super Bowl LIX | CBP

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

    U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Air and Marine Operations (AMO) protects Americans during the Super Bowl by conducting aerial security.

    Instagram ➤ https://instagram.com/CBPgov
    Facebook ➤ https://facebook.com/CBPgov
    Twitter ➤ https://twitter.com/CBP
    Official Website ➤ https://www.cbp.gov

    #cbp
    #security
    #superbowl
    #superbowllix
    #lawenforcement

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

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) team explains about USAR K9 operation in LA wildfires

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

    Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) team explains about the use of trained K9 search dogs for primary house searches and other essential search tasks in LA wildfires.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W-HqxL1T900

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: VA S.A.V.E Suicide Prevention Training 02.04.2025

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

    This webinar provides VA CFBNP partners with information and resources to aid in eliminating Veterans’ suicide. This presentation is open to Veterans, their families, their beneficiaries, and the general public.

    The panelists for this training are:

    1. Lillie Mells, Program Manager Education & Training, Office of Mental Health Suicide Prevention, Veterans Health Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LhxTy8W8SaA

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – Phase 2 Private Property Debris Removal PSA

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

    The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers outlines the steps they are taking for phase two of the Private Property Debris Removal (PPDR) mission. This phase is essential for clearing ash and large properties, enabling homeowners to start the rebuilding process.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3EdI0Zd4Ifw

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: B.C., First Nations Justice Council open 6 more Indigenous justice centres

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The Province, in partnership with the BC First Nations Justice Council (BCFNJC), is opening six Indigenous justice centres, fulfilling a commitment to establish 15 Indigenous justice centres (IJCs) throughout B.C.

    Niki Sharma, Attorney General, was joined by the BCFNJC in Kamloops to celebrate opening the six new centres in Kamloops, Williams Lake, Cranbrook, Port Hardy, Fort St. John and a shared location serving the communities of Burns Lake and Hazelton. 

    “It is incredible to reflect on what First Nations, the BC First Nations Justice Council and the Province have collaboratively achieved – a network of 15 Indigenous justice centres across B.C.,” said Kory Wilson, chair, BCFNJC. “IJCs provide Indigenous clients with optimum legal representation and access to wraparound services that extend beyond their legal needs. As those accessing our services often feel overwhelmed and disconnected from community, IJCs embrace them with care, honour their cultural identity and protect them from falling through the cracks.”

    With the opening of these IJCs, the BCFNJC, the Province and Canada have completed Strategy 4 of the BC First Nations Justice Strategy. Strategy 4 is a key commitment that calls for establishing a network of 15 IJCs throughout B.C. These six new centres join the existing nine physical centres in Chilliwack, Kelowna, Merritt, Nanaimo, Prince George, Prince Rupert, Surrey, Vancouver and Victoria, along with the virtual centre serving the province remotely.

    IJCs address systemic barriers faced by Indigenous Peoples in the justice system by offering culturally appropriate legal advice, representation and referrals to local support services directly to Indigenous people at the community level. The range of services and the focus in each location may vary based on the needs, strengths and services available in each community, but are initially focused on criminal defence and child protection matters.

    “All Indigenous Peoples, regardless of whether they qualify for legal aid, can access free, culturally informed legal and outreach services at IJCs,” Sharma said. “I am grateful to all our partners in delivering services that help build resilient communities and improve our justice system.”

    The IJCs aim to help Indigenous people in the justice system address the root causes of their involvement and offer supports to help prevent future interactions with police and the justice system. Legal and outreach teams at the IJCs use their diverse community, cultural and professional expertise to support the healing and restorative-justice journeys of Indigenous clients. Through resource and support workers, clients may be referred to services such as housing, employment services, and mental-health and addictions treatment.

    “Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc is pleased to be the home of a brand-new Indigenous justice centre, where our communities can seek legal representation alongside wraparound services in an environment that feels culturally safe,” said Kúkpi7 (Chief) Rosanne Casimir, Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc. “We extend our appreciation to the BC First Nations Justice Council and the Province for addressing and working toward better systems of justice for Indigenous Peoples. The relief, safety and support this centre brings will ripple through our community with positive effects.”

    Indigenous justice centres are a key part of the Province’s commitment to implement the BC First Nations Justice Strategy and advance reconciliation under the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act. They are also a key action in the Province’s Safer Communities Action Plan.

    Quick Facts:

    • Strategy 4 of the BC First Nations Justice Strategy calls for a network of 15 IJCs in B.C.
    • In 2024, the first nine of 15 IJCs were operational and provided free legal representation or outreach supports in more than 2,200 cases in which Indigenous people navigated criminal or child-protection matters.
    • In March 2024, BCFNJC expanded eligibility requirements so all Indigenous people, regardless of whether they qualify for legal aid, can access free legal and outreach services at IJCs.
    • IJCs build on the crucial work of long-standing justice partners, such as the Native Courtworker and Counselling Association of BC and local Indigenous Justice Programs, throughout the province.

    Learn More:

    For information about Indigenous justice centres, visit:
    https://bcfnjc.com/indigenous-justice-centres-in-british-columbia/

    For information about how Indigenous justice centres fit into the Safter Communities Action Plan, visit:
    https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2022PREM0090-001743

    For information about the BC First Nations Justice Council, visit:
    https://www.bcfnjc.com

    To read the BC First Nations Justice Strategy, visit:
    https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/First_Nations_Justice_Strategy_Feb_2020.pdf

    To track and keep updated on the progress the BCFNJC and the Province are making on the BC First Nations Justice Strategy, visit:
    https://trackingjustice.bcfnjc.com/

    For more information about the unique service model of IJCs and what a client’s journey at an IJC can look like, visit:
    https://trackingjustice.bcfnjc.com/intertwining-kinship-justice/

    A backgrounder follows.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: HSI Los Angeles teaming with federal and local partners to form task force on combating crimes related to wildfires

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    LOS ANGELES — In the midst of an unprecedented natural disaster, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Los Angeles has teamed up with federal and local law enforcement agencies to create the Joint Regional Fire Crimes Task Force (JRFCTF) to investigate and prosecute fire-related crimes as Los Angeles County recovers from devastating wildfires. The JRFCTF will focus on investigating and prosecuting criminal actors seeking to exploit the wildfire crisis.

    The JRCTF includes representatives of HSI Los Angeles’ El Camino Real Financial Crimes Task Force, the United States Attorney’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office; the Los Angeles City Attorney’s Office, the Los Angeles Police Department, and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

    “Far too often, during tragic events like the Los Angeles-area wildfires, we have seen greedy individuals seek to line their pockets and divert critical funds from those most in need,” said HSI Los Angeles Special Agent in Charge Eddy Wang. “HSI Los Angeles and partner agencies will do our part to help the region recover and rebuild by ensuring that disaster-related funds will go to individuals and families that lost loved ones.”

    The JRCTF investigative focus will be on an assortment of crimes to include looting, burglary and impersonation offenses; crimes related to arson; illegal drone activity; and financial fraud targeting both disaster victims and those wishing to make charitable donations.

    Fire victims are vulnerable to being re-victimized by fraud and theft. Its efforts focus on ensuring that relief funds reach those in need and working to swiftly prosecutor those engaged in defrauding donors.

    While generous people around the world are making donations to assist victims, this creates opportunities for scams as criminals exploit disasters for their own gain by sending fraudulent solicitations or creating deceiving websites. Potential donors are urged to make donations only to known entities and to avoid giving donations in cash or via wire transfer.

    The JRCTF will also investigate the misuse of aid programs administered by government agencies, such as the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Small Business Administration. As financial resources are being deployed to support homeowners, renters, nonprofits and businesses affected by the fires, any attempt to misuse these funds through fraud or identity theft will be vigorously investigated and prosecuted.

    Anyone with information on financial fraud crimes related to the Los Angeles Area Wildfires are encouraged to call the HSI Tip Line at 877-4-HSI-TIP.

    Learn more about HSI’s mission to increase public safety in your community on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @HSILosAngeles.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Final draft agenda – Wednesday, 12 February 2025 – Strasbourg

    Source: European Parliament

    29 Objection pursuant to Rule 115(2) and (3): Genetically modified maize DP910521     – Amendments Wednesday, 5 February 2025, 13:00 28 Objection pursuant to Rule 115(2) and (3): Genetically modified maize MON 95275     – Amendments Wednesday, 5 February 2025, 13:00 42 Recent dismissals and arrests of mayors in Türkiye     – Motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Monday, 10 February 2025, 20:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 13:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 14:00 44 Repression by the Ortega-Murillo regime in Nicaragua, targeting human rights defenders, political opponents and religious communities in particular     – Motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Monday, 10 February 2025, 20:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 13:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 14:00 45 Continuing detention and risk of the death penalty for individuals in Nigeria charged with blasphemy, notably the case of Yahaya Sharif-Aminu     – Motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Monday, 10 February 2025, 20:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 13:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 14:00 Separate votes – Split votes – Roll-call votes Texts put to the vote on Tuesday Friday, 7 February 2025, 12:00 Texts put to the vote on Wednesday Monday, 10 February 2025, 19:00 Texts put to the vote on Thursday Tuesday, 11 February 2025, 19:00 Motions for resolutions concerning debates on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law (Rule 150) Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 19:00

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Final draft agenda – Thursday, 13 February 2025 – Strasbourg

    Source: European Parliament

    42 Recent dismissals and arrests of mayors in Türkiye     – Motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Monday, 10 February 2025, 20:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 13:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 14:00 44 Repression by the Ortega-Murillo regime in Nicaragua, targeting human rights defenders, political opponents and religious communities in particular     – Motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Monday, 10 February 2025, 20:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 13:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 14:00 45 Continuing detention and risk of the death penalty for individuals in Nigeria charged with blasphemy, notably the case of Yahaya Sharif-Aminu     – Motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Monday, 10 February 2025, 20:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 13:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 14:00 27 Further deterioration of the political situation in Georgia     – Motions for resolutions Monday, 10 February 2025, 19:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 11:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 12:00     – Requests for “separate”, “split” and “roll-call” votes Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 19:00 50 Escalation of violence in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo     – Motion for a resolution Monday, 10 February 2025, 19:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions Tuesday, 11 February 2025, 19:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions Tuesday, 11 February 2025, 20:00     – Requests for “separate”, “split” and “roll-call” votes Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 16:00 Separate votes – Split votes – Roll-call votes Texts put to the vote on Tuesday Friday, 7 February 2025, 12:00 Texts put to the vote on Wednesday Monday, 10 February 2025, 19:00 Texts put to the vote on Thursday Tuesday, 11 February 2025, 19:00 Motions for resolutions concerning debates on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law (Rule 150) Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 19:00

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump’s push to shut down USAID shows how international development is all about strategic interests

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Nelson Duenas, Assistant Professor of Accounting, L’Université d’Ottawa/University of Ottawa

    The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) is on the verge of being shut down by United States President Donald Trump’s administration.

    On Feb. 4, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the agency would be taken over by the State Department. He stated that “all USAID direct hire personnel will be placed on administrative leave globally.”

    This move comes after Trump and his officials have heavily criticized the role and ineffectiveness of the agency. Trump said USAID had “been run by a bunch of radical lunatics, and we’re getting them out,” while Tesla CEO and special government employee Elon Musk said it was “time for it to die.”

    The closure of USAID will have significant consequences for many countries in the Global South. USAID is one of the largest development agencies in the world and funds programs that benefit millions of people, from supporting peace agreements in Colombia to fighting the spread of HIV in Uganda.

    Around US$40 billion is allocated annually from the U.S. federal budget for humanitarian and development aid. If USAID is dismantled, it raises questions about how these funds will be redirected and the long-term impacts it will have on global development efforts.

    A geopolitical fallout?

    The potential dismantling of USAID has raised concerns among international development experts about a potential geopolitical fallout that could create unintended consequences for the U.S. itself.

    Global issues, such as human security and climate change, are expected to be heavily affected. The U.S. also risks losing influence in the fight for soft power since dismantling USAID could leave behind a power vacuum. Other countries like Russia or China may occupy the space left by what was the largest international aid program in the world.



    Read more:
    USAid shutdown isn’t just a humanitarian issue – it’s a threat to American interests

    This shift could result in the U.S. losing its influence in regions like Africa, South America and Asia, where the country distributed aid to a number of non-governmental organizations, aid agencies and non-profits.

    While the future of U.S. foreign assistance remains uncertain, other world powers have a role to play. European donors, despite some limitations in resources, remain committed to the 2030 Sustainable Development agenda.

    Beyond humanitarianism

    If the agency is shut down, it may be widely condemned on moral and humanitarian grounds. However, its closure would respond to a logic of strategic and ideological interests that has long shaped the international development system. This a key finding from my longstanding field research with organizations that receive funding, not only from USAID, but also from Canadian and European donors.

    International development largely unfolded in the aftermath of the Second World War when global powers competed to establish a new world order. This led to the creation of international agreements and multilateral institutions, with major industrialized nations emerging as the primary donors of foreign aid.

    While many international initiatives, like the Millennium Development Goals and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, have guided development as we know it, the governments of main donor countries have their own interests in mind when providing aid.

    In my research, I have interviewed many people involved in the foreign aid chain, including directors and offices of international non-governmental organizations and governmental co-operation agencies. Many said development relationships are shaped by both the interests of donors and those of recipient populations and organizations.

    While these relationships may be based on humanitarian objectives, such as disaster relief or human rights advocacy, they can also be influenced by ideological, geopolitical, economic and social agendas.

    In this context, the American move to eliminate USAID could be seen as one that prioritizes national security and economic goals over traditional global humanitarian concerns. Governments steer the wheel of international development according to their political ideologies and interests, regardless of the shock this may generate among citizens.

    Canada’s role in all this

    The U.S. is not the only country re-evaluating its international development policy. Sweden, another major country in the foreign aid sphere, is also changing its co-operation strategy following changes in its government and criticism of the NGOs that deploy their development assistance.

    Canada’s role in this unfolding situation remains uncertain. With the resignation of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as head of the Liberal Party and the upcoming federal election, it’s unclear what will happen to Canada’s international development strategy going forward.

    Under Stephen Harper, the country’s international development strategy was closely tied to expanding trade with developing countries based on maximizing the value of extractive economies and a strong defence policy. This approach aimed to bring value not only to the recipient country of aid, but to Canada as well.

    When Trudeau took office, Canada’s development strategy turned to a more progressive agenda centred on peace keeping, feminist approaches and humanitarian programs.

    Will Canada continue to champion human rights, human security and progressive agendas? Or will Canada reduce funds for foreign assistance, which seems to be the wish of many of its citizens?

    The answer to these questions will depend on the direction that our political leaders decide to take, and the sentiments of citizens. Still, Canada’s approach to development aid will probably remain in a trade-off between moral imperatives of humanitarianism and strategic national interests.

    Nelson Duenas receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC)
    Nelson Duenas is a researcher associated to l’Observatoire canadien sur les crises et l’action humanitaires

    – ref. Trump’s push to shut down USAID shows how international development is all about strategic interests – https://theconversation.com/trumps-push-to-shut-down-usaid-shows-how-international-development-is-all-about-strategic-interests-249118

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Palestine: Committee on the Rights of Palestinian People – Press Briefing | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Following the CEIRPP meeting, there will be a joint press encounter by members of the newly-elected Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People (CEIRPP Bureau), as follows: 

    Ambassador Coly Seck, Permanent Representative of Senegal, Chair.
    Ambassador Neville Melvin Gertze, Permanent Representative of Namibia, Vice-Chair.  
    Ambassador Jaime Hermida Castillo, Permanent Representative of Nicaragua, Vice-Chair
    Ambassador Hari Prabowo, Deputy Permanent Representative of Indonesia, representing Ambassador Arrmanatha Christiawan Nasir, elected as Vice-Chair.
    Ambassador Ernesto Soberón Guzmán, Permanent Representative of Cuba, Vice-Chair.
    Ambassador Ahmad Faisal Muhamad, Permanent Representative of Malaysia, Vice-Chair and Rapporteur.
    Ambassador Riyad Mansour, Permanent Observer of the Observer State of Palestine

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OhL2Ln6La3k

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lee, Ogles Introduce BOWSER Act to End DC Home Rule

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Utah Mike Lee

    WASHINGTON –Today, Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) and Rep. Andy Ogles (R-TN) introduced the Bringing Oversight to Washington and Safety to Every Resident (BOWSER) Act in the Senate and House, named after District of Columbia Mayor Muriel Bowser. In response to the mayor and city council’s failure to prevent violent crime, corruption, and voting by non-citizens, the bill would repeal the District of Columbia Home Rule Act one year after passage. Congress has the authority to manage the nation’s capital according to Article 1, Section 8, Clause 17 of the Constitution. Rep. Andy Ogles (R-TN) is the lead sponsor of the bill in the House of Representatives.

    “The corruption, crime, and incompetence of the D.C. government has been an embarrassment to our nation’s capital for decades,” said Sen Lee. “It is long past time that Congress restored the honor and integrity of George Washington to the beautiful city which bears his name.” 

    “The radically progressive regime of D.C. Mayor Bowser has left our nation’s Capital in crime-ridden shambles.” said Rep. Ogles. “Washington is now known for its homicides, rapes, drug overdoses, violence, theft, and homelessness. Bowser and her corrupt Washington City Council are incapable of managing the city. As such, it seems appropriate for Congress to reclaim its Constitutional authority and restore the nation’s Capital. The epicenter of not only the United States Federal Government but also the world geopolitics cannot continue to be a cesspool of Democrats’ failed policies.”

    Failures of governance in the District of Columbia include:

    You can read the Text of the BOWSER Act HERE.

    You can read the One Pager HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lee Sponsors Introduction of REINS Act to Restore Constitutional Government

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Utah Mike Lee

    WASHINGTON –Today, Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) joined Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) as a co-sponsor of the Regulations from the Executive In Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act. This legislation would require that federal regulations with an economic impact of $100 million or more be subject to an up-or-down vote in Congress, reclaiming legislative power from the regulatory state.

    “Without the REINS Act, Americans will continue to live under the tyranny of unelected bureaucrats who effectively make laws but never have to stand for election,” said Sen. Lee. “Congress has an opportunity to restore its constitutional lawmaking role while saving countless American workers, consumers, businesses, and families from the costs imposed by endless federal regulations.”

    Additional cosponsors in the Senate include U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Katie Britt (R-AL), Ted Budd (R-NC), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Steve Daines (R-MT), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), James Lankford (R-OK), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Bernie Moreno (R-OH), James Risch (R-WI), Rick Scott (R-FL), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), and Eric Schmitt (R-MO).

    Background:

    Under the REINS Act, once major rules are drafted, they must then be affirmatively approved by both chambers of Congress and then signed by the President, satisfying the bicameralism and presentment requirements of the Constitution. Currently, regulations ultimately take effect unless Congress specifically disapproves.

    The bill defines a “major” rule as one that the Office of Management and Budget determines may result in an economic impact of $100 million or greater each year; “a major increase in costs or prices” for American consumers, government agencies, regions, or industries; or “significant adverse effects” on the economy.

    The REINS Act also includes the following provisions:

    • New Defense for Individuals: Individuals can argue that the average person would not have known their actions violated federal law if the statute did not clearly state it.
    • Right to Sue: People can sue to stop enforcement if an agency implements a major rule without getting congressional approval.
    • LIBERTY Act: Agency guidance with an economic impact of $100 million or more needs congressional approval just like major rules.
    • Deregulatory Actions Exempted: Agencies do not need congressional approval to withdraw costly or burdensome rules

    You can read the REINS Act HERE.

    You can find more info on regulatory reform HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Boozman-Backed Recycling Legislation Passes Senate Committee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman

    WASHINGTON––U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR), Chair of the Senate Recycling Caucus, Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works (EPW), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Ranking Member of the Senate EPW Committee, applauded committee passage of the Strategies to Eliminate Waste and Accelerate Recycling Development (STEWARD) Act.

    The STEWARD Act, approved unanimously by Boozman’s EPW Committee colleagues, would improve our nation’s recycling and composting systems and establish a pilot recycling program at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to award grants on a competitive basis to communities interested in improving their recycling accessibility. 

    “Strengthening our commitment to recycling in order to preserve the resources we are blessed with, as well as spur economic growth and encourage industry innovation, benefits all Americans,” said Boozman. “I am proud to see the STEWARD Act advance with bipartisan support as we continue our efforts to encourage sustainable recycling infrastructure systems and practices.”

    “For too many Americans, recycling remains out of reach – either because facilities don’t exist in their communities or because the infrastructure to make recycling economically viable is not in place. The STEWARD Act aims to close these gaps by ensuring that recycling services are accessible to all communities. The bill also recognizes that, to solve a problem, you need to measure and understand it first. The data provisions in the STEWARD Act will empower decision-makers to track progress, identify areas for improvement, and make informed decisions that will drive real change in our nation’s recycling systems,” Capito said.

    “I’m proud to join Chairman Capito and Senator Boozman to lead the STEWARD Act, which is an essential preliminary step in reducing the amount of plastics seeping into our bodies and environment,” said Whitehouse. “Recycling is a stopgap in the rising flood of plastic waste, and I look forward to working with my colleagues—on both sides of the aisle—to tackle this issue on all fronts.”

    Boozman, Capito and Whitehouse introduced the STEWARD Act last month. The measure combines Boozman-authored legislation from previous Congresses known as the Recycling and Composting Accountability Act and the Recycling Infrastructure and Accessibility Act that aim to enhance commercial and curbside recycling.

    As a leader of the Senate Recycling Caucus, Boozman has also hosted events bringing together industry leaders to promote sustainability and preservation of our natural resources.

    Find a one-pager explanation of the bill here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ahead of Confirmation Vote, Warren, Kaine Call on RFK Jr. to Forfeit Stake in Anti-Vaccine Lawsuits

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    February 06, 2025

    After pressure, Kennedy agreed to transfer stake in anti-vaccine lawsuits to his son, but would still have influence over those cases as HHS Secretary

    “Your relationships with these entities [with business before HHS] will raise serious doubts about your impartiality if you participate in decisions about cases and other particular matters that involve them.” 

    Text of Letter (PDF) 

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), a member of the Senate Finance Committee, and Tim Kaine (D-Va.), a member of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Pensions, and Labor, wrote to Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., nominee for Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), about his continued conflicts of interest. The senators called out Mr. Kennedy’s plan to enter office with a serious ethics conflict by keeping a financial interest in anti-vaccine lawsuits within his family, asked him to recuse himself from former clients’ matters, commit to not lobbying HHS after his tenure as Secretary, and more. 

    Mr. Kennedy initially had an agreement with the law firm Wisner Baum that would allow him to earn 10% of any payments awarded to plaintiffs in cases he referred to the firm, including cases against the pharmaceutical company Merck’s Gardasil vaccine. As HHS Secretary, Mr. Kennedy would have the power to influence the outcome of those vaccine cases, including influencing Merck’s willingness to settle, or influencing the jury pool. Last week, Mr. Kennedy announced he would transfer his stake in those cases to his adult son, an attorney at Wisner Baum. 

    “This arrangement simply does not pass the smell test. Your son is not an independent third party, and ethics experts have critiqued your plan as exploiting a loophole in the law,” wrote the senators. The lawmakers called on Mr. Kennedy to divest from cases he’s referred to the firm by either forfeiting the fee or agreeing with Wisner Baum to accept an amount not dependent on the outcome of cases during his tenure. 

    Mr. Kennedy has also worked with an anti-vaccine advocacy group, Children’s Health Defense, which regularly sues the agencies he’d oversee as HHS Secretary, and a number of law firms with ongoing health-related matters. Mr. Kennedy has agreed to not work on his former clients’ matters for one year. However, the senators are concerned that the cooling-off period is too short to resolve the concern that he would not be impartial when handling matters involving former clients with whom he still has fresh relationships. To address such concerns, over a dozen Biden appointees voluntarily agreed to recuse themselves from former clients’ matters for four years. 

    Mr. Kennedy also said he would continue to hold investments in a fund invested in multiple companies regulated by HHS, and that he would seek a waiver to work on matters that impact those investments. 

    “You appear to be planning to make decisions that can impact your own investments in numerous health companies. We urge you to either divest these holdings before taking office or to recuse from all particular matters that could impact those holdings,” wrote the lawmakers. 

    During his hearing, Mr. Kennedy committed to not working for a drug company for at least four years after leaving government service. However, he did not commit to not seeking compensation from entities that sue drug companies or that he would regulate or interact with at HHS. Numerous Biden appointees agreed to a cooling-off period of at least four years before working in the industries they regulated. 

    “You should commit to not lobbying HHS for at least four years after leaving office, either as a formal registered lobbyist or informal shadow lobbyist — given that former high-level officials can leverage their influence not only by directly lobbying but through facilitating others to do so,” concluded the lawmakers. 

    The senators asked Mr. Kennedy to make these commitments to increase American’s trust in his ability to serve the public interest during his time at HHS. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Democrats Hold Floor Overnight, Welch Speaks at 5 A.M. to Oppose Nomination of Project 2025 Author and Nominee for OMB Russell Vought

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    Welch spoke on the Trump Administration’s lawlessness and illegal actions—from pardoning January 6th defendants to freezing federal funding and international aid
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) took to the Senate Floor at 5:00 a.m. this morning to sound the alarm on the dangers of Donald Trump’s lawlessness and to oppose the nomination of Russell Vought, Trump’s nominee to lead the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). Senator Welch spoke for an hour. 
    View his remarks here: 

    Senate Democrats held the floor all night to oppose Russell Vought’s nomination to OMB and to slam the Trump Administration’s freeze on federal loans and grants. Vought’s radical Project 2025 would slash federal funding, and threaten the programs and services Vermonters rely on, like Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security. As director of the OMB, Vought will be tasked with carrying out President Trump’s federal funding freeze, which is unconstitutional. Additionally, Vought is an open election denier and told Senators in his confirmation hearing he believed the 2020 election was ‘rigged.’ The Senate is expected to vote on Vought Thursday. 
    Senator Welch last week convened Vermonters to discuss how the Trump Administration’s federal funding freeze has impacted communities, families and workers across the state. The federal courts temporarily blocked the order, and on Monday extended the temporary restraining order. In addition, the court has required OMB to re-open funding currently held by the government and provide the court a compliance report by the end of the week. 
    ■■■ 
    Senator Welch’s Committee and Subcommittee Assignments for the 119th Congress include:   

    Senate Committee on Finance   

    Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, & Forestry  

    Ranking Member, Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Credit   

    Senate Committee on the Judiciary  

    Ranking Member, Subcommittee on the Constitution   

    Senate Committee on Rules & Administration  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Province opens first eating disorders recovery centre

    Alberta’s government is making record investments in mental health and addiction services to support Albertans of all ages in their pursuit of wellness and recovery. Through the Alberta Recovery Model and Recovery Alberta, the province has increased opportunities for recovery of eating disorders. Every aspect of a person’s life can be affected by eating disorders, including both mental and physical health, especially for teenagers who are still in development.

    The EHN Sandstone Recovery Centre is the result of a collaborative partnership between Alberta’s government, Recovery Alberta, Silver Linings Foundation and Edgewood Health Network (EHN Canada).

    With an investment of almost $10 million over three years (2023-26) in partnership with Recovery Alberta to establish the EHN Sandstone Recovery Centre in Calgary, Alberta’s government remains committed to supporting this important recovery program for young Albertans. The Silver Linings Foundation raised $4 million in capital funding for this facility.

    “This is another important step in creating strong, recovery-oriented systems of care in communities across Alberta. Eating disorders can often be misunderstood and can go unrecognized or underdiagnosed. With the opening of this centre, young Albertans can now get the care they deserve and have better access to intensive treatment to better support them in their recovery.”

    Dan Williams, Minister of Mental Health and Addiction

    Operated by EHN Canada, the 12-bed EHN Sandstone Recovery Centre in Calgary increases access to specialized eating disorders treatment in the province providing up to 52 youth and young adults with treatment free of charge every year.

    “EHN Sandstone Recovery Centre provides the highest standard of treatment for eating disorders in a safe, nurturing environment where young people can begin their journey to recovery. Our multidisciplinary team of compassionate experts is dedicated to addressing the unique challenges of eating disorders with evidence-based care and unwavering support. At the heart of our mission is helping patients and their families rediscover hope, rebuild their lives and achieve lasting recovery.”

    Christina Basedow, chief operating officer, EHN Canada

    “Eating disorders have long been overlooked in mental health, leaving a critical gap in care. After a decade of advocacy, we’re proud to see Alberta’s first live-in recovery centre become a reality. This centre addresses a critical need many families, including my own, have faced. Thanks to this partnership, a critical resource is now accessible to Albertan families.”

    Cendrine Tremblay, board chair, Silver Linings Foundation 

    “The opening of this facility means more resources and support for individuals battling eating disorders. Recovery from an eating disorder is a complex and ongoing process that requires dedication and support. The centre’s multidisciplinary team will play a vital role in guiding individuals through their journey, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact this will have on the lives of many in the community.”

    Janet Chafe, executive director, Recovery Alberta

    The EHN Sandstone Recovery Centre helps close a gap in the continuum of care for youth and young adults diagnosed with complex eating disorders. Albertans aged 12 to 24 now have access to intensive treatment in a community setting, reducing the need for long hospital stays and increasing positive health outcomes.

    The centre offers an individualized approach to care, with around-the-clock support from a multidisciplinary team of physicians, nurse practitioners, registered dietitians, nurses, counselors and support staff. Services include academic support, weekly individual and family therapy, daily group therapy, nutritional rehabilitation, structured meal support therapy, self-care and wellness activities, nutritional education, and distress tolerance skills. While treatment length varies, it generally lasts anywhere from three weeks to four months.

    EHN Sandstone Recovery Centre – Bedroom (Credit: EHN Canada)

    EHN Sandstone Recovery Centre – Common area (Credit: EHN Canada)

    EHN Sandstone Recovery Centre – Exterior (Credit: EHN Canada)

    Alberta’s government is committed to building a system of care that gives every person facing mental health challenges an opportunity to pursue recovery and wellness. Albertans experiencing mental health challenges can contact 211 for information on services in their community, including other online supports like Kids Help Phone and the Mental Health Helpline.

    Quick facts

    • The facility welcomed its first client in 2024 and is now fully operational. To date, 18 patients have been admitted to the facility with additional referrals being triaged.

    • Youth and young adults aged 12 to 24 with complex eating disorders can be referred either by an Alberta physician or nurse practitioner.

    • Silver Linings is a charitable foundation working with communities, health professionals and agencies to increase the awareness and understanding of eating disorders, provide community support for those affected and expand access to eating disorder treatment and care options.

    • Edgewood Health Network Canada is the nation’s largest network of industry-leading, evidence-based care mental health, trauma, and addiction treatment facilities, each with a passion for providing quality treatment for Canadians.

    Related information

    • Silver Linings
    • Edgewood Health Network Canada
    • EHN Canada media requests

    Related news

    • Expanding access to youth eating disorder treatment (April 5, 2023)
    • Minister of Mental Health and Addiction mandate letter (Aug. 2, 2023)

    Multimedia

    • Media can download photos and B-roll from here to use for editorial purposes. 

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Guatemalan national sentenced for conspiracy and illegal reentry

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    PROVIDENCE, R.I. — A twice-deported Guatemalan national has been sentenced to 30 months in federal prison on charges of conspiracy to commit interstate transportation of stolen property and illegal reentry into the United States as a result of a large-scale Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) organized retail crime case.

    Marvin Estuardo Morales De Paz, 30, of Cranston, was one of as many as a dozen members of a Rhode Island-based conspiracy of individuals who traveled to home improvement and clothing stores in at least five states to commit thefts. The group then transported the stolen merchandise to Rhode Island to sell. Court documents describe Morales as being “the most consistent member” of the organized group and was present for nearly every theft and set prices and directed sales of the stolen items.

    According to information presented to the court, the ring was involved in at least 35 documented thefts in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. It is estimated that members of the conspiracy stole more than $280,000 worth of merchandise. Tens of thousands of dollars’ worth of stolen goods was recovered from Morales’s residence when HSI special agents arrested him on April 11, 2024.

    Morales was sentenced Jan. 31 by U.S. District Court Senior Judge William E. Smith to 30 months of incarceration to be followed by one year of supervised release. Morales will be turned over to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and faces deportation upon completion of his term of incarceration.

    The matter was investigated by HSI New England’s Providence Resident Agent in Charge office, with the assistance of HSI Boston and HSI Allentown, Pennsylvania. Additional assistance was provided by police departments in Providence, Coventry, Warwick, Smithfield, and Johnston in Rhode Island; Boston, Norwood, Bellingham, Marlboro, Seekonk, Avon, Auburn police departments in Massachusetts; Montville and Fairfield police departments in Connecticut; Parkesburg, Downingtown, Lebanon, Wyomissing, and Reading police departments in Pennsylvania; Nashua police department in New Hampshire; and Marlboro Police Department in New Jersey.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: HSI Tucson, DEA, U.S. Marshals arrest 2 illegal aliens previously convicted for aggravated felonies

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    January 31, 2025Tucson, AZ, United StatesOrganized Crime, Narcotics

    TUCSON, Ariz. — A Mexican national illegally in the United States was arrested Jan. 25 by special agents with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).

    The arrest unfolded after agents discovered information on the whereabouts of one of the illegal alien who was previously convicted for a felony, after fleeing the scene of an accident involving a death/serious injuries. Additionally, records checks revealed this suspect was under investigation by both HSI and DEA for participating in a transnational criminal organization allegedly trafficking cocaine and fentanyl in Tucson.

    At approximately 2 p.m., agents observed the suspect exit a residence along with two other individuals. The three suspects entered a car and went to the Home Depot located at the intersection of Dodge Blvd and Broadway Ave in Tucson. Agents followed the vehicle to the parking lot and waited for the suspects to return to their vehicle from Home Depot. Once the three suspects returned to the vehicle, HSI, U.S. Marshals and DEA agents detained the individuals and confirmed their identities and citizenship.

    One of the three suspects detained was a United States citizen who was released at the scene. The third suspect was identified as a Mexican citizen also illegally present in the United States. Records checks identified the third suspect had a prior aggravated felony conviction for sexual assault in 2005, after which he was deported.

    Both individuals were administratively detained for re-entering the United States without inspection or parole and both are in ICE custody pending the outcome of their immigration cases.

    The success of these arrests is due to the significant assistance from DEA and the U.S. Marshals.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: IAM Union, Working People Protest Billionaire Takeover of Government

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    The IAM, unions and pro-labor politicians gathered Wednesday in Washington, D.C. at the Department of Labor to protest Elon Musk and his anti-worker agency called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). DOGE wants to raid and hack the Labor Department’s database, a move that could cripple worker protections and displace union workers at the DOL. DOGE’s latest move comes after a similar event occurred last week at another government agency.

    Share and Follow:

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump’s Gaza and Ukraine plans come under the spotlight

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Jonathan Este, Senior International Affairs Editor, Associate Editor

    Steve Bannon may no longer be in Donald Trump’s inner circle, but the newly reinstated US president appears to be adhering to a dictum the conservative disrupter-in-chief outlined back in 2018 as he reflected on his role in getting Trump elected the first time. “The Democrats don’t matter. The real opposition is the media. And the way to deal with them is to flood the zone with shit.”

    It’s fair to say that for the first two weeks of Trump’s second presidency the Democrats haven’t really mattered. But Trump and his advisers have got news organisations struggling to work out which way to look.

    In any normal news cycle, the appointment of vaccine-sceptic RFK Jnr. as health secretary would dominate the headlines, as would the successful installation of any of the more bizarre Trump cabinet picks. But at the same time the media has had to deal with a steady stream of other attention-grabbing announcements: the idea that the US could one way or the other acquire Greenland from Denmark, for instance, or the threats to use force to take control of the Panama Canal. We’ve had conflicting statements about how to end the war in Ukraine (more of which later) and the now you see them, now you don’t tariff threats against Mexico and Canada, not to mention the idea that the latter could be incorporated as the 51st state of the USA.

    The zone has been well and truly flooded. Meanwhile, the administration’s plan to take complete control of the civil service (which appears to be straight out of the Project 2025 playbook) has proceeded apace with career public servants being dismissed in their droves to make way for true Maga (Make America Great Again) believers in key roles. This, needless to say, has struggled for attention in light of all the eye-catching news stories.

    Sign up to receive our weekly World Affairs Briefing newsletter from The Conversation UK. Every Thursday we’ll bring you expert analysis of the big stories in international relations.

    This week’s big idea has to do with his vision for a post-conflict Gaza. Trump foreshadowed this plan last week when he announced he was talking with the leaders of Egypt and Jordan about resettling Gazans there – whether permanently or just for a period of reconstruction of Gaza was not clear, his statement was short on detail. But this week, hosting the Israeli prime minister in Washington (significantly the first foreign leader to visit since his inauguration), Trump expanded on his vision while Benjamin Netanyahu looked on approvingly.

    Initially, it appeared that Trump’s plan was for the permanent relocation of all 2.2 million Gazans to other countries while the Trump administration and its allies considered the considerable real estate investment opportunities presented by turning the 360km² Gaza Strip, with its 40km Mediterranean coastline into the “Middle East Riviera”. But as Simon Mabon notes here, administration officials were later quick to insist that the relocation would only last for as long as it takes to rebuild the stricken enclave.

    Mabon, professor of international relations at the University of Lancaster who specialises in Middle East politics, also notes that the proposal did what few other issues seem able to do: united the Arab nations in opposition. He also believes that while both Egypt and Jordan have signed peace deals with Israel, the relationship is often fractious and this latest announcement won’t have helped.

    Most importantly, perhaps, will be the reaction of Saudi Arabia. Israel (with Washington’s encouragement) has been pursuing normalisation of relations with Riyadh for some years. But the Saudi ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, has explicitly rejected “any attempts to displace the Palestinians from their land as well as affirming that relations with Israel would depend on the establishment of a Palestinian state.



    Read more:
    What Trump’s proposal to ‘take over’ Gaza could mean for Arab-Israeli relations

    It’s not the first time, by any means, that the idea of clearing Gaza of Palestinians has been mooted. It’s not even the first time that the real estate investment potential of such a plan has been discussed by a senior Trump official. Back in March last year, Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law and former senior adviser who was the architect of Trump’s 2020 peace plan, talked up the idea of resettling Gazans in the Negev desert while noting that “Gaza’s waterfront property could be very valuable”.

    Israel’s far-right settler movement, meanwhile, has long yearned to empty out the strip. In December 2023 the leader of the Nachala Israeli settlement movement, Daniella Weiss, declared that Gaza City had always been “one of the cities of Israel. We’re just going back. There was a historical mistake and now we are fixing it.”

    The relocation of Palestinians outside Palestine was actually part of the founding mission of UN agency Unrwa – which, incidentally was banned by Israel last week and has been defunded by the US since allegations surfaced last year that a number of Unrwa employees had taken part in the Hamas attacks on October 2023.

    Anne Irfan of University College London, a specialist in refugees and displacement, and Jo Kelcey of the Lebanese American University, whose core research area covers the politics of education in marginalised communities such as Gaza, recount here that Unrwa was set up in 1949 following the Nakba (catastrophe) when more than 700,000 Palestinians were displaced in fighting before and after the foundation of the State of Israel.

    Unrwa was set up with the aim of resettling the displaced people and sponsoring projects that would create jobs and promote economic development in their new host countries: the “works” in the agency’s title.

    As Irfan and Kelcey note, the staunchest opponents of this plan were Palestinians themselves. They could read between the lines of this mission, that their exile was intended to be permanent. It was a non-starter and within five years of Unrwa’s establishment the resettlement policy was shelved in favour of a focus on education, which remains to this day.

    Not that Trump would be keen to associate any plan of his with Unrwa. In 2018 he fully defunded the agency, the first time a US president has done this. He has also more recently extended Joe Biden’s suspension of Unrwa funding after the allegations of Hamas infiltration and has made it clear he supports Netanyahu’s ban on the agency operating in Israel.



    Read more:
    Trump plans to ‘permanently resettle’ Palestinians outside Gaza – the very reason Unrwa was originally created

    Meanwhile, how would the Gaza plan sit in terms of Trump’s “America First” strategy? Mark Shanahan, of the University of Surrey, believes this is all part of what he refers to here as “Trumperialism”. It’s not so much America as the light on the hill, trying to find a way to fix global problems and seek peaceful solutions to dangerous and distressing conflicts. Rather, in this case at least, it sees Gaza as “an opportunity for American business to build wealth – the classic US economic hegemony of the populist America First political theory”.

    Rather than emulating the Marshall plan of what feels now like a more enlightened era, Trump’s plan for Gaza, at least as he laid it out after his meeting with Netanyahu, is more akin to the plan for the rebuilding of Iraq after the 2003 invasion, writes Shanahan. That is: US private funding for beachside condos and luxury developments while the countries to whom the displaced Palestinians are relocated would be expected to pay for the privilege.

    But Trump also hinted this might mean US boots on the ground in the Middle East, cautions Shanahan, adding that “delivering Mar-a-Lago on the Med may mean thousands of American combat troops deployed to Gaza for years at daily risk of death. How do main-street Americans benefit from that?”



    Read more:
    How Trump’s Gaza plan does – and doesn’t – fit in with his pledge to put America first

    And if you wondered whether – like so many of Trump’s big plans and executive orders issued since his second inauguration – the Gaza Riviera scheme might fall foul of the law, it would. As Tamer Morris –
    an expert in international law at the University of Sydney – explains, the US would require the consent of the Palestinian people to take control of Gaza. And this is not going to happen.

    Forced relocation is forbidden under the Geneva Conventions as is helping another state forcibly relocate people. It could also be interpreted as ethnic cleansing, as defined by the Commission of Experts report on the former state of Yugoslavia to the UN Security Council in 1994.



    Read more:
    Trump wants the US to ‘take over’ Gaza and relocate the people. Is this legal?

    Meanwhile in Ukraine

    Meanwhile, the US president has also been making noises about his ideas for bringing peace to Ukraine. The latest, aired this week, involved linking continuing US support with favourable concessions on Ukraine’s supply of rare earths and other strategic resources. Stefan Wolff, of the University of Birmingham, has been watching the diplomatic manoeuvrings around Trump, Putin, Xi and Ukraine since the war began nearly three years ago. In the past fortnight, he’s been looking at the prospect of a peace deal brokered by the US.

    Wolff thinks it unlikely that anything will be resolved in the foreseeable future beyond a ceasefire and freezing of the battle lines. And that’s not even much more than a distant possibility given that neither Kyiv nor the Kremlin seem to want this for reasons of their own.



    Read more:
    Trump’s vision of a peace deal for Ukraine is limited to a ceasefire – and it’s not even clear if Kyiv or Moscow are going to play ball

    The possibility of Europe bearing the burden of maintaining support to Ukraine without the US bearing the lion’s share of the burden also looks remote. Domestic politics in many EU member states is threatening the bloc’s unity – and, in any case, the ability of Europe to make up the shortfall caused by a possible US withdrawal of aid to Ukraine is distinctly doubtful. And unlikely improve any time soon.



    Read more:
    Ukraine: prospects for peace are slim unless Europe grips the reality of Trump’s world

    It appears, meanwhile, that Putin’s ally Kim Jong-un is poised to send another wave of North Koreans to help. Jennifer Mathers, of Aberystwyth University, takes a detailed look at what we know about how these troops have fared thus far. She concludes that, given the terribly heavy losses the North Korean units are reported to be suffering, it’s possible that their leader may be trading the high casualty rate for much-needed combat experience in case his army might want to fight in a conflict nearer to home.



    Read more:
    North Korea: Kim Jong-un is sending a second wave of soldiers to Ukraine – here’s why

    World Affairs Briefing from The Conversation UK is available as a weekly email newsletter. Click here to get our updates directly in your inbox.

    – ref. Trump’s Gaza and Ukraine plans come under the spotlight – https://theconversation.com/trumps-gaza-and-ukraine-plans-come-under-the-spotlight-249311

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Statement at USTR Nomination Hearing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) delivered the following remarks at a hearing to consider the nomination of Jamieson Greer to be United States Trade Representative (USTR), with the rank of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary.

    As prepared for delivery:

    “Mr. Greer, welcome and congratulations on your nomination. 

    “By traditional timelines, this is one of the earliest dates the Finance Committee has held a nomination hearing for the United States Trade Representative, or USTR. 

    “Your cooperation and timely responses to questions from both sides of the aisle expedited this Committee’s very demanding process.

    “Mr. Greer has been nominated by the President for an incredibly important job: America’s chief trade negotiator.  By statute—and frankly, in accordance with our Constitution—our negotiator must report to Congress, which means he reports to the Finance Committee.

    “This week, attention fell on President Trump’s executive orders to help secure our borders from illegal immigration and fentanyl smuggling.  I strongly support securing our borders and fighting fentanyl trafficking.

    “The executive orders rely on the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, or IEEPA, and concern drug policy and border security.  The President, not USTR, invokes IEEPA, and the Department of Homeland Security, not USTR, is responsible for securing our borders.  Nonetheless, I am securing briefings on these orders and, in fact, Customs and Border Protection will brief Committee staff on this matter today.

    “What the President has done that is different, though, is bringing tariffs into the discussions about border security.  USTR is, as I said, America’s chief trade negotiator.

    “Any time the U.S. government is considering tariffs or something that implicates trade policy, he should be part of those conversations, and report to us about those conversations and solicit our input. 

    “Right now, Mr. Greer is not in government and not privy to various discussions. 

    “Confirming him will allow him to be part of the conversation and work with this Committee, ensuring Congress fulfills its constitutional responsibilities over international trade. 

    “When we look at whether Jamieson Greer will be a good negotiator for America’s trade interests and a partner to this committee, his experience and skillset indicate the answer is yes.

    “He understands USTR’s policymaking since he served as its Chief of Staff.  At USTR, he distinguished himself as an effective negotiator in his work on the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, or USMCA, which overwhelmingly passed Congress.  As many of my Democrat colleagues know firsthand, he worked closely with them on their priorities for USMCA. 

    “As an accomplished international trade attorney, he is an expert on our trade agreements and trade laws, including the requirements to report to Congress promptly and thoroughly. 

    “We need an effective USTR now more than ever.  The last USTR did not negotiate any agreements and we lost ground to foreign competitors.  The Biden Administration walked away even from its own limited initiatives, such as the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework.  Rather than forge new rules to combat China’s trade practices, the prior administration turned its back on existing rules and positions, such as our intellectual property rights under the WTO TRIPS Agreement, and support for open data flows and non-discrimination against our technology companies. 

    “The Biden Administration also dawdled on enforcement of our existing trade agreements, including by failing to act against protectionist measures on our U.S. agriculture and energy producers. 

    “Finally, there was one other major USTR failure during the last Administration: failing to report and to consult with this Committee.  Both sides of the aisle expressed serious concern about the last USTR’s repeated failures to consult with the Committee—and her position that she did not need to improve consultation with the Committee or the agency’s transparency with the public. 

    “We should not hold Mr. Greer responsible for those failings.  Mr. Greer has been crystal clear that he will consult with this Committee and respect Congress’s constitutional prerogatives over trade.  I expect that some members may disagree from time to time with the Administration, but, if so, Mr. Greer has committed to make its case before us, rather than ignore us.  If confirmed, I will hold him to that commitment.

    “Mr. Greer, thank you for your willingness to serve, and I look forward to hearing more from you about your perspectives on international trade policy and how you plan to work with this Committee to achieve our shared priorities.

    “With that, I recognize Ranking Member Wyden for his opening remarks.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: HSI Newark supports New Jersey Attorney General in taking down large-scale diesel fuel theft ring on the East Coast

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    NEWARK, N.J. — After an investigation led by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Newark with state and local partners, 25 people and four companies were charged for their alleged roles in a multimillion-dollar scheme that used stolen credit card information to fraudulently purchase tens of thousands of gallons of diesel fuel and then resell it to trucking companies and other fuel providers.

    “The success of this operation is a true testament to our valued partnership with the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office,” HSI Newark acting Special Agent in Charge Spiros Karabinas said. “Together we targeted members of a criminal organization suspected of using stolen credit card information to purchase diesel fuel along the East Coast and ensured many fraudsters faced justice.”

    As alleged, the enterprise operated in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New York, Connecticut, and Massachusetts, using credit card “skimmers” that stole financial information from credit and debit cards to create “cloned” cards that were used to make fraudulent fuel purchases. Various vehicles — some having been modified with auxiliary tanks to illegally transport fraudulently purchased diesel fuel — were loaded up with the stolen fuel and delivered it to customers, earning the enterprise illicit profits of $3.4 million during the time period of the investigation.

    “These defendants allegedly developed a sophisticated system for stealing credit card information from unsuspecting victims and then used that information to make new, fraudulent cards, which they used to buy diesel fuel,” said New Jersey Attorney General Platkin. “That fuel was then allegedly sold to trucking companies and other fuel providers. Working with our local law enforcement partners, we will always be on the lookout for financial frauds and protect the public from these schemes.”

    HSI Newark and the Office of the Attorney General partnered with the New Jersey Division of Criminal Justice (DCJ), the Camden County Prosecutor’s office and the Gloucester Township Police Department in the investigation into the criminal organization resulting in the charges.

    According to the investigation, in October 2023, DCJ detectives received information from the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office and Gloucester Township Police Department about an alleged diesel fuel theft enterprise operating throughout New Jersey. Participants allegedly placed skimming devices on various gas pumps when the gas stations were closed. A skimming device is a card reader that is surreptitiously placed in a location where individuals will insert their credit or debit cards and records the user’s information.

    The investigation revealed that the enterprise possessed “master” keys that unlocked gas pumps, permitting them to install the skimmers inside. Some of the skimmers recovered included stolen information from victims who had used the affected gas pumps. Those devices and other electronic devices recovered during the investigation showed that the enterprise allegedly stole credit card information from thousands of victims from New Jersey and surrounding states.

    The stolen financial information was allegedly used to create “cloned” cards that were used to purchase diesel fuel from other gas stations. Approximately 500 cloned cards were recovered from enterprise members during arrests by law enforcement. After purchasing the fuel, they would then deliver the fuel to trucking companies in exchange for payment. No member of the enterprise is registered with the state to sell diesel fuel.

    Additional partners in the investigation include New Jersey’s Elizabeth, Bordentown, Mahwah, Roxbury Township, Mantua, Franklin Township, Cranford Township and Kearny police departments, the Union County Prosecutor’s Office – Cyber Crimes Taskforce. Out of state partners include the Bristol and Lancaster City police departments in Pennsylvania, the Colchester Police Department in New York, the East Lyme Police Department in Connecticut plus the New York, Pennsylvania and New Hampshire State Police. Miami-Dade Police Department, Broward County Sheriff’s Office, and Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office in Florida and the Texas Department of Public Safety assisted with the arrests.

    Charges are merely accusations, and all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

    Follow us on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @HSINewark to learn more about HSI’s global missions and operations.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New York Man faces new charges for financial fraud following HSI Buffalo investigation

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    ROCHESTER, N.Y. — A New York man who pleaded guilty to federal wire fraud in April 2024 faces new charges after an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Buffalo.

    Timothy Siverd, 37, of Webster, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with wire fraud, access device fraud, and aggravated identity theft, which carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,00 fine, the U.S. District Court for the District of Western New York announced Jan. 16, 2025.

    “Our investigation shows Siverd, who is currently awaiting sentencing for involvement in another financial fraud scheme, allegedly continued to indulge his greed through additional involvement in fraudulent activities,” said HSI Buffalo Special Agent in Charge Erin Keegan. “Together with our partner, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, we take the complaint against Siverd seriously and aim to bring justice to victims of financial fraud schemes.”

    According to the investigation, in August 2024, an individual reported to law enforcement that Siverd, who owns ROC Scrubby, was using the cleaning company to over-bill customers in excess of tens of thousands of dollars. The individual, an employee of ROC Scrubby, stated that as her employment carried on, she gradually started to hear more and more complaints from customers that they were being over-billed or double-billed for services, or billed for work that was never performed. She also stated that Siverd was able to over-bill customers using the BookingKoala app, which granted Siverd access to each customer’s credit or debit card information. In addition, the individual stated that Siverd would claim to fix the issue and refund money, but customers stated that he would either not refund the money, give a partial refund, or give a full refund only to again over-bill the customers on a later date. The employee knew of at least five customers who were overbilled so often that they changed their credit or debit card numbers to stop it. The employee also reported other suspicious activity of Siverd’s to law enforcement.

    In April 2024, Siverd pleaded guilty to federal wire fraud for his involvement in another financial fraud scheme and is awaiting sentencing on that charge.

    The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Honduran national sentenced in $14+ million payroll scheme to defraud IRS, workers’ compensation insurance company

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A Mexican national was sentenced to more than two years in prison and ordered to pay more than $3.5 million in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to defraud the United States following a Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Jacksonville investigation.

    Jose Molina-Herrera, 27, of Honduras, was sentenced to 27 months in federal prison. The court also ordered Molina-Herrera to forfeit $867,005, which are proceeds of the wire fraud offense. In addition, Molina-Herrera was ordered to pay a total of $3,558,579.42 in restitution to the IRS. Molina-Herrera entered a guilty plea on Nov. 1, 2024.

    “Wire fraud and the facilitation of ‘off the books’ payments not only undermine the integrity of our legal and economic systems but also supports unlawful employment activities,” said HSI Jacksonville Assistant Special Agent in Charge Tim Hemker. “Homeland Security Investigations, alongside our partners at the Internal revenue Service – Criminal Investigations and the Florida Department of Financial Services – Bureau of Insurance Fraud, is committed to holding those who facilitate these complex fraud schemes accountable for their actions.”

    According to court documents, between 2019 and 2020, Molina-Herrera conspired with others to facilitate the payment of construction workers “off the books” to avoid paying premiums for workers’ compensation insurance and payroll taxes. Construction contractors and subcontractors entered arrangements with the conspirators, through which All National Remodeling LLC — a shell company formed by Molina-Herrera — facilitated both the distribution of proof of insurance and the payment of workers with cash. In exchange for 6 percent to 8 percent of the contractors’ and subcontractors’ payroll, Molina-Herrera and others caused the distribution of certificates of liability insurance in the name of All National Remodeling, which contractors and subcontractors then used as nominal proof that workers were supposedly insured. In reality, All National Remodeling’s insurance policy was issued based on a fraudulent application that never disclosed that contractors and subcontractors would be employing workers who were ostensibly insured under the shell company’s barebones insurance policy. As a result of contractors and subcontractors using All National Remodeling’s proof of insurance, but never paying any insurance premiums, the insurance company was defrauded more than $2.2 million.

    Molina-Herrera and others also facilitated the deposit of checks into the shell company’s bank accounts, as well as the withdrawal of cash to be paid to workers — all without withholding, or paying over, payroll taxes to the IRS. Through these arrangements with the conspirators, the construction contractors and subcontractors could disclaim responsibility for withholding and paying payroll taxes to the IRS or ensuring that the workers were legally authorized to work in the United States. By facilitating payments to workers of over $14 million without payroll taxes being withheld, Molina-Herrera and his co-conspirators caused the U.S. Treasury to lose more than $3.5 million in tax receipts.

    One of Molina-Herrera’s co-conspirators, Oscar Molina-Avila, was previously sentenced to 52 months’ imprisonment for his role in the scheme.

    “Using shell companies to pay workers under the table is not only illegal, it gives an unfair competitive advantage that businesses who do things the right way can’t match,” said Ron Loecker, Special Agent in Charge of IRS-Criminal Investigation’s Tampa Field Office. “We will continue to investigate these schemes to ensure compliance with the law and return competitive balance to the industry.”

    This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, HSI Jacksonville, and the Florida Department of Financial Services – Bureau of Insurance Fraud. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Coolican.

    HSI Tampa’s area of responsibility, which includes 10 geographically strategic offices, covers more than 51,600 square miles of the total 65,757 square miles in the state of Florida. This region has more than 14.2 million people and includes 58 of the 67 counties. HSI Tampa also includes five of the 10 largest cities in Florida, 15 primary commercial service airports, and 11 seaports.

    Learn more about HSI Tampa’s mission to increase public safety in Florida communities on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @HSITampa.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: HSI investigation leads to guilty pleas for Chinese nationals in fraudulent gift card conspiracy

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    CONCORD, N.H. — Three Chinese nationals pleaded guilty Jan. 14 for their roles in a large-scale fraud conspiracy based in China after their activity was uncovered during a Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) probe.

    Naxin Wu, 26, Mengying Jiang, 34, and Mingdong Chen, 28, pleaded guilty in federal court in Concord to conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Judge Landya B. McCafferty scheduled Wu’s sentencing for April 8, 2025 and Jiang’s sentencing for April 22, 2025. Judge Joseph N. Laplante scheduled Chen’s sentencing for April 11, 2025.

    According to HSI’s investigation, organized criminal elements in China acquire gift cards through multiple fraudulent means. For example, gift cards are obtained by hacking U.S. companies, and targeting U.S. citizens through romance and elder fraud schemes. The criminal elements then send the gift card data to multiple cells of Chinese nationals operating in the United States through a Chinese-based messaging platform.

    Once U.S.-based cells receive the gift card data, they then spend the gift cards to purchase high-value electronics, principally Apple products. After purchasing the Apple products, cell members consolidate the electronics in warehouses for shipment to China, Hong Kong, or countries in Southeast Asia. The cells primarily operate in states with no sales tax, such as New Hampshire, to maximize their profits.

    Wu, Jiang, and Chen are members of one cell in New Hampshire. Wu and Jiang purchased fraudulent gift cards at a discount from their face value. They then either personally used the cards or disseminated them to others, including Chen, to use. Wu was responsible for $1.4 million, Jiang for $3 million, and Chen for $400,000 of fraudulent gift cards.

    The charge of conspiracy to commit wire fraud provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    HSI New England’s Manchester Resident Agent in Charge office, Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigations, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the Concord Police Department led the investigation. The Merrimack County Attorney’s Office has provided valuable assistance.

    Gift card fraud has become a growing concern for consumers and businesses alike. Under Project Red Hook, HSI is teaming up with our law enforcement partners and businesses to raise awareness of how Chinese organized crime groups are exploiting gift cards to launder money.

    Follow us on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @HSINewEngland to learn more about HSI’s global missions and operations.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Jeweler sentenced to 30 months for multimillion-dollar international trade fraud scheme following a multi-agency investigation

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    NEWARK, N.J. — Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Newark led an investigation with law enforcement partners spanning from India to New York and New Jersey, resulting in the discovery of a jeweler running a multimillion-dollar international trade fraud scheme and unlicensed money transmitting.

    Monishkumar Kirankumar Doshi Shah, a/k/a “Monish Doshi Shah” (Shah), 40, of Mumbai, India and Jersey City, New Jersey, who operated jewelry companies in New York City’s Diamond District was sentenced to 30 months for spearheading a scheme to illegally evade customs duties for more than $13.5 million of jewelry imports into the United States and for illegally processing more than $10.3 million through an unlicensed money transmitting business. He previously pleaded guilty at the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey to a two-count Information charging him with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and operating and aiding and abetting the operation of an unlicensed money transmitting business.

    “Monishkumar Kirankumar Doshi Shah disregarded our nation’s trade laws and defrauded the U.S. government of millions of dollars in customs duties through his brazen international financial fraud scheme,” said HSI Newark acting Special Agent in Charge Sprios Karabinas. “Through HSI’s investigation, we were able to uncover the mislabeled tracks of jewelry shipments and illegal transactions Shah hoped to conceal. We are thankful for the collaboration with partners across the globe who helped us bring this case to successful prosecution.”

    According to the investigation, from approximately December 2019 to approximately April 2022, Shah engaged in a scheme to evade duties for shipments of jewelry from Turkey and India to the United States. Shah would ship and/or instruct his co-conspirators to ship goods from Turkey or India — which would have been subject to an approximately 5.5% duty if shipped directly to the United States — to one of Shah’s companies in South Korea. Shah’s co-conspirators in South Korea would change the labels on the jewelry to state that they were from South Korea instead of Turkey or India, and then ship them to Shah or his customers in the United States, thereby unlawfully evading the duty. Shah would also make and instruct his customers to make fake invoices and packing lists to make it look like Shah’s South Korean companies were actually ordering jewelry from Turkey or India. Shah also instructed a third-party shipping company to provide false information to U.S. Customs and Border Protection concerning the origin of the jewelry. During the scheme, Shah shipped approximately $13.5 million of jewelry from South Korea to the United States without paying the appropriate duty.

    In addition, from approximately July 2020 through approximately November 2021, Shah owned and/or operated numerous jewelry companies in New York City’s Diamond District, including MKore LLC, MKore USA Inc, and Vruman Corp. Shah used these entities to conduct more than $10.3 million in illegal financial transactions for customers — including converting cash to checks or wire transfers. Shah would also collect cash from customers and use other individuals’ jewelry companies to convert the cash into wires or checks. At times, Shah and other members of the money transmitting business moved hundreds of thousands of dollars in a single day. In exchange for their services, certain members of the money transmitting business charged a fee. None of Shah’s or his associates’ companies were registered as money transmitting businesses with New York, New Jersey, or the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network.

    In addition to the prison term, Judge Salas ordered restitution in the amount of $742,500 for the wire fraud scheme and forfeiture in the amount of $11,126,982.33 for the wire fraud and unlicensed money transmitting schemes. In addition, the Court imposed a two-year term of supervised release.

    HSI Newark partnered with HSI New York, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation in Newark, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection in the investigation leading to the sentence. International partners included the HSI attaché office in Seoul, and the Korea Customs Service, the Seoul Customs Special Investigation Office in South Korea. The DEA, the Parsippany -Troy Hills Police Department, the Morristown Police Department, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation – Office of Inspector General and the Justice Department’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section assisted in the investigation.

    Follow us on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @HSINewark to learn more about HSI’s global missions and operations.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: HSI Miami-Key West investigation leads to 2 Ukrainian nationals sentenced for $25m tax evasion, money laundering and labor exploitation conspiracy

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    MIAMI — Two Ukrainian nationals who were extradited from the Kingdom of Thailand to the United States in September 2024 were sentenced Jan. 27 on charges related to labor-staffing companies they operated in Florida.

    Oleg Oliynyk and Oleksandr Yurchyk were each sentenced to 15 years in prison for conspiracy to defraud the United States and conspiracy to commit money laundering after a joint investigation between Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Miami-Key West and IRS Criminal Investigation.

    According to court documents, Oliynyk, Yurchyk and others owned and operated a series of labor-staffing companies in South Florida — including Paradise Choice LLC, Paradise Choice Cleaning LLC, Tropical City Services LLC and Tropical City Group LLC — from at least April 2008 and August 2021. Through these staffing companies, Oliynyk, Yurchyk and co-defendants Oleksandr Morgunov, Mykhaylo Chugay and Volodymyr Ogorodnychuk facilitated the employment of non-resident aliens in the hospitality industry who were not authorized to work in the United States and helped evade the assessment and collection of more than $25 million of federal income and employment taxes.

    In addition to the term of imprisonment, U.S. District Court Judge Jose E. Martinez ordered Oliynyk and Yurchyk to each serve three years of supervised release, pay $10,863,233.05 in restitution to the United States and to forfeit $11 million.

    Oliynyk and Yurchyk are the latest defendants sentenced as part of Operation RoomKey, a joint criminal investigation initiative led by the Tax Division, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida, Homeland Security Investigations and IRS Criminal Investigation.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Michael S. Davis for the Southern District of Florida and acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division made the announcement.

    Senior Litigation Counsel Chris Clark of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida, Senior Litigation Counsel Sean Beaty, and Trial Attorneys Jessica A. Kraft, Matthew C. Hicks, and Wilson Rae Stamm of the Tax Division are prosecuting the case.

    Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida or on Pacer under case number 21-cr-10009.

    Members of the public with information about criminal activity in your community are encouraged to contact the HSI Tip Line at 877-4-HSI-TIP.

    Learn more about HSI’s mission to increase public safety in your community on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @HSI_Miami.

    MIL OSI USA News –