NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Joins Lawsuit to Prevent Trump Administration from Distributing Thousands of Forced Reset Triggers Across the Country

    Source: US State of California Department of Justice

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta yesterday joined a lawsuit led by the attorneys general of New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland, suing the Trump Administration’s Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), over its official plans to return thousands of forced reset triggers (FRTs) into communities across the United States. A semi-automatic firearm equipped with an FRT allows a shooter to engage in sustained rapid fire, similar to a fully automatic machine gun, so long as the trigger is held down. Thus, a firearm equipped with an FRT can unleash massive carnage in mere seconds. Although ATF previously classified FRTs as illegal machine guns, the Trump Administration’s ATF signed a settlement agreement reverting that classification and agreed to return thousands of seized FRTs into communities across the United States. Following the Trump Administration’s settlement, Attorney General Bonta issued a law enforcement bulletin, reminding law enforcement that the Trump Administration’s settlement does not alter the fact that FRTs remain illegal under California law. In an amended complaint filed yesterday, California joined the coalition of 16 other attorneys general in this litigation to prevent the imminent redistribution of FRTs that are illegal to possess under federal law.

    “It is a devastating fact that in our nation, children and teens are more likely to die by gun violence than any illness or accident. In California, we know that commonsense gun laws save lives, and we won’t stand idly by as the Trump Administration pours illegal weapons into our communities,” said Attorney General Bonta. “Forced reset triggers turn firearms into deadlier machine guns, and they are illegal in California. We’re joining this lawsuit to prevent FRTs from entering California and to challenge the unlawful settlement agreement entered by the Trump Administration with manufacturers of FRTs.”

    Despite the federal prohibition, ATF estimates that at least 100,000 FRTs have been distributed across the country in recent years. FRTs have become increasingly popular, including among individuals who are prohibited from possessing any firearms under federal law. ATF’s records also establish that machine gun conversion devices, including FRTs, are showing up more often at crime scenes. 

    Multiple lawsuits seeking either to enforce or challenge the prohibition on FRTs were filed during the Biden Administration. A federal judge in New York agreed that FRTs are banned under federal law. A federal judge in Texas disagreed and held that FRTs do not qualify as machine guns under federal law, but that ruling was on appeal when the Trump Administration announced that it had settled these lawsuits — in a way that eviscerates the federal FRT prohibition. ATF has agreed to abandon its enforcement actions and appeals; promised to stop enforcing the federal ban on machine guns against FRTs, even against individuals and sellers who were not parties to any of these lawsuits; and pledged to return FRTs that it previously seized.

    This multistate lawsuit seeks to prevent the return of FRTs, arguing that they are prohibited by federal law, which prohibits anyone from owning machine guns, including devices that convert semi-automatic firearms into machine guns. The federal government cannot violate federal law, even when it tries to bury those violations in a settlement agreement. The lawsuit also argues that the return of FRTs will permanently threaten public safety nationwide. And, as the lawsuit highlights, ATF has even admitted that returning FRTs in states that prohibit them would “aid and abet” violations of state laws. In California, FRTs are “multiburst trigger activators” under Penal Code section 16930, and under Penal Code section 32900, an FRT cannot be owned, sold, offered for sale, manufactured, imported, given away, or lent. An influx of FRTs into California communities would harm public safety and increase costs to the State.

    Attorney General Bonta yesterday, through the amended complaint, joins the attorneys general of New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Colorado, Hawai’i, Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, and the District of Columbia in the lawsuit.

    A copy of the amended complaint is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Estes Joins the John Whitmer Show to Talk One Big, Beautiful Law

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas)

    Rep. Estes Joins the John Whitmer Show to Talk One Big, Beautiful Law

    U.S. Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) joined the John Whitmer Show to talk about the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) after President Donald Trump signed it into law on Friday, July 4th. 

    Rep. Estes spoke about how the historic legislation stopped Kansans and Americans from facing a 22% tax increase. With this historic legislation, Kansans will now pay an average of $10,900 less in taxes. Additionally, Rep. Estes spoke about the economic growth, innovation and border security that will result from the OBBB. Listen to the interview here and read interview highlights below.

    On tax relief:

    “When you look at the bill … Kansans and Americans would have faced a 22% tax increase next year if this bill hadn’t passed. And for Kansas, it averaged about $2,200 just for next year. And if you look at over the course of the next five years, it had been over $10,000, almost $11,000 in extra taxes that Kansans won’t have to pay. At the same time, we’re projecting that their salaries are going to go up because of the economic growth out of that. We wanted to avoid the largest tax increase in history. At the same time, we’re focusing on, how do we help people? We doubled the standard deduction so people would have more money in their pocket afterwards. We increased the child tax credit.”

    On American innovation:
    “One of the things that I’ve been a champion of is innovation and new ideas. And we did tax teams, 10 different tax teams, over the last couple of years as we’ve talked about some of the provisions that we ought to put into that. And I chaired the innovation tax team trying to focus on  research and development. How do we come up with some of these great ideas and innovative ideas that the United States has always been known for?  

    “So what happened was when the TCJA was passed, it was a temporary period of time where  during the first year, all of your research and development costs could be written off of your taxes. And since then, that expired in 2022. So now people are having to write this off over five years, which means if you have to spend the money this year, but you can’t write it off with your taxes over a five-year period, you’re not going to be able to do as much investment. That’s what we’ve seen in that. 

    “When we passed the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, research and development spending went up 18%. And that’s great for jobs because three-fourths of that spending is for jobs. And it works well in actually growing the economy. We want to make sure that that comes back so that we can make that permanent going forward, companies can make more investment in the United States in research, which ultimately leads to more manufacturing jobs, actually to a stronger America.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoyle, Merkley Fight Back Against Trump Funding Cuts with Renewed Effort to Reduce Wildfire Risk, Boost Economic Opportunities in Forest-Dependent Communities

    Source: US Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04)

    July 08, 2025

    For Immediate Release: July 8, 2025 

    EUGENE, OR –  As the Trump Administration illegally cuts and withholds funding for wildfire mitigation projects, Oregon’s U.S. Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04) and U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley teamed up to introduce the Wildfire Resilient Communities Act in Congress. This legislation would provide dedicated federal support to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires in Oregon and across the West, while also empowering communities to prepare for wildfires.

    “I’m proud to join Senator Merkley in introducing this bill to reduce wildfire risk and strengthen forest-dependent communities,” said Hoyle. “Year after year, wildfires have devastated our towns, economies, and forests. This legislation invests in prevention, resilience, and local jobs—because protecting our communities shouldn’t stop at putting out fires. It starts with smart, proactive stewardship, and that’s exactly what this bill delivers.”

    “You can’t get ready after the fire starts,” said Merkley. “Our bill would ensure communities can seize every moment to prepare for and mitigate wildfires by supercharging investments in critical hazardous fuels projects. Increasingly extreme wildfire seasons fueled by climate chaos are not cooling down anytime soon, and we need a considerable increase in federal resources—not cuts—to make our forests, timber economies, and communities healthier and more resilient.”

    Merkley and Hoyle’s Wildfire Resilient Communities Act would double down on essential efforts to boost wildfire preparedness by creating a $30 billion fund to allow the U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and other land management agencies to increase catastrophic wildfire reduction projects; reauthorize and triple funding up to $3 billion for the Community Wildfire Defense Grant Program; permanently reauthorize the Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration (CFLR) Program, which is critical for the five collaboratives in Oregon; and create a County Stewardship Fund that would provide payments to counties for stewardship contracts on federal land.

    As Ranking Member of the Interior-Environment Appropriations Subcommittee, which oversees funding for federal land management agencies, Merkley has been leading the charge to sound the alarm over federal funding freezes and cuts to critical wildfire mitigation work ahead of another extreme wildfire season, leading a series of actions to demand the Trump Administration restore funding for critical projects and reverse course on reckless reorganization efforts.

    The Wildfire Resilient Communities Act is cosponsored by Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR), Alex Padilla (D-CA), and Adam Schiff (D-CA).

    The bicameral bill is endorsed by Klamath-Siskiyou Wildlands Center, Sustainable Northwest, Silvix Resources, and Lomakatsi Restoration Project.

    “Southern Oregon has been hard hit by the health and economic impacts of smoke and fire,” said Pam Marsh, Oregon State Representative, House District 5. “Senator Merkley’s legislation will help us jumpstart the collaborative forest projects that will protect our communities, while rewarding counties for their support of stewardship agreements.  This is how we’ll start the work that will help us respond to changing conditions.”

    “The Wildfire Resilient Communities Act supports the critical fuels reduction work that is being done in our communities,” said Paul Anderes, Chair of Union County Board of Commissioners. “This bill will expand upon the progress that has been made in so many landscapes to make our fire prone communities safer.”

    “Through focused investments in forest restoration and community protection we can prepare our communities and landscapes for wildfires,” said Michael Dotson, Executive Director of Klamath-Siskiyou Wildlands Center. “Our forests were more adapted to fire before we cut down so many of the large, fire resistant trees. We replaced too many of our old growth forests with flammable second growth forests. We need to fund the kind of work that can restore our forests and help build more fire and climate resilient landscapes and communities, and Sen. Merkley’s bill would help us do that.”

    “The need for increased investment in our federal forests and rural communities has never been more urgent,” said Dylan Kruse, President at Sustainable Northwest. “We can’t afford to keep playing catch up. This bill takes immediate action to address the massive management backlog on our forests, and expands effective programs to prepare for the future. We commend Senator Merkley for his bipartisan leadership and introducing legislation that will make a real difference with resources that meet the scale of need.”

    “Senator Merkley is to be commended for reintroduction of the Wildfire Resilient Communities Act, which will provide important funding for community preparedness and wildfire risk reduction on federal lands, in addition to reauthorizing the phenomenally successful Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Program and providing the funding necessary to continue this important forest health work,” said Susan Jane Brown, Principal, Silvix Resources.

    “Under Senator Merkley’s leadership, this Act would provide much needed, long-term funding for collaborative, science-based strategies to reduce wildfire risk while increasing forest health and supporting local economies. It elevates stewardship-based forestry, an ecologically-centered approach to restoration that Lomakatsi has championed and utilized for two decades to build ecosystem and community resilience across the landscape, with agency, tribal, and non-profit partners, in close coordination with the communities we serve,” said Marko Bey, Executive Director, Lomakatsi Restoration Project.

    Full text of the Wildfire Resilient Communities Act can be found by clicking here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • India, Brazil sign six key pacts with focus on terror, trade, and tech

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India and Brazil signed six agreements on Tuesday during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit, covering cooperation in security, digital infrastructure, renewable energy, agriculture, and intellectual property.

    The agreements include a pact on combating international terrorism and transnational organized crime, as well as a memorandum on the exchange of large-scale digital solutions to support digital transformation.

    Both countries also agreed to collaborate in renewable energy and agricultural research, with an MoU signed between Brazil’s EMBRAPA and India’s Council of Agricultural Research.

    An agreement was also signed for the exchange and mutual protection of classified information.

    Additionally, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) of India and Brazil’s Secretariat of Competitiveness and Regulatory Policy under the Ministry of Development, Industry, Trade and Services signed an MoU on cooperation in the field of intellectual property.

    India and Brazil also announced the establishment of a ministerial-level mechanism to monitor trade, commerce, and investment between the two countries.

  • India–Brazil bilateral trade to touch $20 billion over next five years: PM Modi in Brasilia

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said India and Brazil will work to expand cooperation in trade, clean energy, defence, Artificial Intelligence, and digital public infrastructure, underlining that both countries share a common vision for inclusive development and a people-centric approach to innovation.

    Speaking at a joint press statement alongside Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, PM Modi expressed his gratitude for being conferred with Brazil’s highest national honour — ‘The Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross’.

    “Today, being honoured with Brazil’s highest national award by the President of Brazil is a moment of great pride and emotion not just for me, but for 140 crore Indians. I sincerely thank the President, the Brazilian government, and the people of Brazil for this honour,” PM Modi said.

    Calling President Lula his “best friend” and “Chief Architect of the Strategic Partnership between India and Brazil,” the PM said every meeting with him has motivated him to work harder for the well-being of both nations. “I dedicate this honour to his strong commitment to India and to our enduring friendship,” he said.

    Trade and energy cooperation

    PM Modi said India and Brazil have agreed to raise bilateral trade to USD 20 billion over the next five years. “Football is Brazil’s passion, just as cricket is loved by the people of India. Whether it’s sending the ball past the boundary or into the goal, when both are on the same team, a USD 20 billion partnership is not difficult to achieve,” he said, adding that both sides will also work to expand the India–MERCOSUR Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA).

    The Prime Minister stressed that cooperation in the energy sector was steadily growing and highlighted the new agreement signed to boost collaboration on clean energy and sustainable development.

    PM Modi also extended best wishes to Lula for the upcoming COP-30 Summit to be hosted by Brazil later this year.

    Defence, AI and digital linkages

    On defence ties, PM Modi said, “Our growing cooperation in the field of defence reflects the deep mutual trust between our two countries. We will continue our efforts to connect our defence industries and strengthen this partnership further.”

    He pointed to ongoing collaboration in Artificial Intelligence and supercomputing, describing it as part of the shared goal of “inclusive development and human-centric innovation.” India’s UPI digital payments platform is also set to be adopted in Brazil, the PM said, adding that India would gladly share its experience in digital public infrastructure and space technology.

    Health, Ayurveda and people-to-people ties

    Highlighting ties in agriculture and health, PM Modi noted that cooperation in agriculture and animal husbandry spans several decades, and both sides are now working together in agricultural research and food processing too. “In the health sector too, we are enhancing our win-win collaboration. We have also emphasized the expansion of Ayurveda and traditional medicine in Brazil,” he said.

    Underscoring the importance of people-to-people connections, the Prime Minister said that the shared passion for sports — cricket and football — brings India and Brazil closer. “We wish for India–Brazil relations to be as vibrant as Carnival, as passionate as football, and as heart-connecting as Samba — all without the long visa counter queues! With this spirit, we will work together to ease people-to-people exchanges between our two nations, especially for tourists, students, sportspersons, and businessmen,” he said.

    On global issues

    PM Modi said India and Brazil have always worked in close coordination on global issues and stressed that their partnership is relevant to the Global South and the wider world. “We firmly believe that it is our moral responsibility to bring the concerns and priorities of the Global South to the forefront of the global stage,” he said.

    Calling for disputes to be resolved through “dialogue and diplomacy,” the PM said the India–Brazil partnership stands as an “important pillar of stability and balance” amid global tensions and uncertainty. He also reiterated both nations’ “zero tolerance and zero double standards” approach on terrorism, saying, “We strongly oppose both terrorism and those who support it.”

    The Prime Minister also extended an invitation to Lula to visit India and said, “Once again, on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to you for this highest national honour and for your enduring friendship.”

    Earlier in the day, Lula welcomed PM Modi at the Alvorada Palace in Brasilia, where he was given a ceremonial reception featuring a 114-horse escort for his car. The two leaders then held a restricted-format meeting, followed by delegation-level discussions and the signing of agreements.

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Saskatchewan Wildfire Update – July 8

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on July 8, 2025

    As of 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 8, there are 68 active wildfires in Saskatchewan. Of those active fires, seven are categorized as contained, 15 are not contained, 30 are ongoing assessment and 16 are listed as protecting values. 

    This year, Saskatchewan has had 357 wildfires, which is well above the five-year average of 208 to date. 

    Four communities remain under an evacuation order: Resort Subdivision of Lac La Plonge, La Plonge Reserve, Northern Village of Beauval and Kinoosao.  

    Any evacuees should register through the Sask Evac Web Application and then call 1-855-559-5502 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. to have their needs assessed for additional assistance. Individuals who need help registering through the application can call the 855 Line for assistance.   

    Evacuees supported by the Canadian Red Cross should call 1-800-863-6582. 

    The Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency’s (SPSA) Recovery Task Team continues to meet with community leaders to discuss recovery efforts. Their current focus is working with communities to support debris removal, site clean-up and help communities initiate the recovery process. 

    The Government of Saskatchewan announced $20 million yesterday to support these priorities as well as for communities and individuals who sustained losses during the provincial emergency declaration period (May 29 to June 26, 2025), or who were under a local state of emergency at the time of their loss.  

    This funding is in addition to the $500 Government of Saskatchewan payments to evacuees 18 years of age and older. This financial support will reach over 10,000 individuals who qualify, including the recent evacuees. The SPSA continues to coordinate with communities that have asked for its support in distributing this financial assistance. 

    The SPSA is also offering retroactive food security support for those communities supported by the SPSA, where the residents are not staying in SPSA provided hotels. The agency will provide those who qualify $40 per day for the head of household, plus $20 for each additional member, up to a maximum of $200 daily.  

    A full list of evacuated communities can be found on the Active Evacuations webpage. 

    The latest information, an interactive fire ban map, frequently asked questions, fire risk maps and fire prevention tips can be found at saskpublicsafety.ca. 

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese premier says Chinese economy capable of withstanding any external shocks

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Chinese Premier Li Qiang attends a symposium for Chinese enterprises operating in Brazil in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, July 8, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    RIO DE JANEIRO, July 8 — Chinese Premier Li Qiang said here Tuesday that the Chinese economy is fully capable of withstanding any external shocks and achieving long-term stable growth.

    Meeting with representatives of Chinese enterprises operating in Brazil, Li said that since the year’s beginning, the Chinese economy has held up under pressure and maintained sustained and positive momentum.

    Participants included local branch chiefs of Bank of China, Great Wall Motor, State Grid, Goldwind Sci & Tech, China’s leading food trader COFCO, Gree Electric Appliances, Dahua Technology and ZTT Group.

    After listening to the remarks from the participants, Li said that in recent years, Chinese enterprises have accelerated their pace of going global and improved their capabilities for international operations, playing an increasingly important role in boosting domestic economy.

    Li said the first half of the year has witnessed the resilience of China’s economic growth with potential in domestic demand and bright spots in innovation.

    Noting that the Chinese economy will always provide staunch support for Chinese companies operating overseas, the premier said the government will provide better services and guarantees for enterprises, strengthen the building of various mechanisms and platforms for economic and trade cooperation, and improve the overseas comprehensive service system.

    He added that greater policy support will be introduced in such areas as policy consultation, finance, credit insurance and security, in order to create a better environment for enterprises and better facilitate their development.

    The current global economic and trade landscape is undergoing profound changes with the rise of unilateralism and protectionism, and increasing trade and investment barriers, Li noted. At the same time, a new round of technological revolution and industrial transformation is further advancing, presenting both challenges and opportunities for enterprises, he added.

    Li said he hopes Chinese companies can adapt to the trend and take proactive actions. They should build strong brands, strengthen planning, and enhance the global competitiveness of “Made in China” and “Created in China,” he said.

    It is essential to cultivate the local markets deeply by providing consumers with more products and services that meet market demand, the premier said, adding that Chinese companies should use Brazil as a platform to expand into the broader Latin American market and strive for greater development.

    Li said that Chinese enterprises must respect local laws, regulations and cultural practices, operate in compliance with legal requirements, actively undertake social responsibilities, and strive to forge a responsible and accountable image.

    Participants said Chinese enterprises will give full play to their own strengths and characteristics, enhance cooperation, effectively respond to various challenges, take root locally and remain committed to operating in compliance with laws and regulations.

    They also vowed to continue to expand their presence in sectors such as finance, energy, agriculture and scientific and technological innovation, uphold the positive image of Chinese enterprises overseas, contribute to building closer economic and trade ties between China and Brazil as well as other Latin American countries, and better achieve mutual benefit and win-win outcomes.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • PM Modi’s Brazil visit: Terror, trade, tech on focus as India, Brazil ink six key pacts

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India and Brazil signed six agreements on Tuesday during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit, covering cooperation in security, digital infrastructure, renewable energy, agriculture, and intellectual property.

    The agreements include a pact on combating international terrorism and transnational organized crime, as well as a memorandum on the exchange of large-scale digital solutions to support digital transformation.

    Both countries also agreed to collaborate in renewable energy and agricultural research, with an MoU signed between Brazil’s EMBRAPA and India’s Council of Agricultural Research.

    An agreement was also signed for the exchange and mutual protection of classified information.

    Additionally, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) of India and Brazil’s Secretariat of Competitiveness and Regulatory Policy under the Ministry of Development, Industry, Trade and Services signed an MoU on cooperation in the field of intellectual property.

    India and Brazil also announced the creation of a ministerial-level mechanism to monitor trade, commerce, and investment between the two countries.

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. and Israel Pledge to Work Together to Unleash AI Innovation with New Memorandum of Understanding

    Source: US Department of Energy

    WASHINGTON— U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright and Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum, vice chair and chair of the National Energy Dominance Council (NEDC), today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to advance collaboration on energy and artificial intelligence (AI) with Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israel Ambassador to the U.S. Yechiel (Michael) Leiter.

    “President Trump and the National Energy Dominance Council are excited to announce this partnership on AI and energy security with Israel and the United States, advancing our shared vision of global energy addition and AI innovation,” Energy Secretary Chris Wright said. “This Memorandum of Understanding enables our two countries to leverage our research institutions, and technology and energy sectors to ensure the United States and Israel are leaders in AI and remain energy dominant forces as AI transforms our future.”

    “U.S. Energy Dominance demands the advancement of artificial intelligence,” said Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum. “Today, the Department of the Interior, in conjunction with the Department of Energy and leaders on the National Energy Dominance Council, recognized the critical partnership between America and the State of Israel to strategically power the feedback loop of innovation between the energy sector and AI. Through the advancement of AI, while properly managing our natural resources and improving our energy systems, the Trump administration is powering a new future that transforms global energy dominance for America and our allies.”

    The MOU highlights the transformative potential of AI to improve the security and resilience of America and Israel’s energy systems. The two countries further announced their intent to pursue cooperation in areas including analyzing the impact of rising energy demand due to data centers, opportunities for grid optimization, enhanced AI-enabled cybersecurity tools, sharing best practices on the use of AI in energy infrastructure, and the launching of bilateral pilot projects.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dingell Statement on Passage of Reconciliation Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (12th District of Michigan)

    Dingell Statement on Passage of Reconciliation Bill

    Washington, July 3, 2025

    Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06) released the following statement on the House passage of Republicans’ reconciliation bill. 

    “Why would anyone vote for this big bad bill? It is one of the most consequential, devastating, dangerous bills Congress has passed in recent history. It is going to rip health care away from 17 million people, make the biggest cuts to food assistance ever, and ensure the poorest Americans get poorer while the richest get even richer. People will die, children will go hungry, and working Americans will struggle even more to make ends meet, all so Republicans can give another tax break to billionaires. My Republican colleagues have betrayed and abandoned the vulnerable Americans who the government is supposed to serve. This is a complete and total failure. The American people know this is wrong, overwhelmingly disagree with it, and will not forget those who chose to vote for this cruelty.”

    Nationwide, among many other provisions, this bill will:

    1. Kick 17 million people off their health care and make premiums, deductibles, and copays soar for millions more: The bill cuts more than $1 trillion from health care, including the largest Medicaid cut ever, and will cause a $500 billion cut to Medicare. More than 50,000 people will die directly because of these cuts.
       
    2. Cut services and risk closures for hospitals and nursing homes: Under the bill, as many as 300 hospitals, especially those in rural areas, will have to cut services and staff – if not close completely. One in four nursing homes are expected to close. 
       
    3. Make the largest cut to nutritional assistance ever: The bill cuts SNAP by 20 percent, while forcing states to cover more of SNAP’s cost – which could lead to dozens of states eliminating SNAP entirely. Red tape requirements will cause 5 million people to lose food assistance and put tens of millions of kids at risk of losing school breakfast and lunch.
       
    4. Increase energy costs: The bill includes devastating cuts to cheap, clean energy sources including wind and solar that will cause families to pay an average of $400 more per year for their utilities. Seniors and low-income people will also have an even harder time getting assistance to pay their energy bills. And it makes us more dependent on foreign oil.
       
    5. Kill more than a million jobs: The bill includes devastating cuts to clean energy will cost more than 840,000 jobs in just the next 5 years and an additional 790,000 jobs over the next 10 years. 
       
    6. Weaken our public schools and make higher education more expensive: The bill creates a permanent, unlimited tax credit for private school vouchers that undermine our public schools and attacks protections for student borrowers. 
       
    7. Make dangerous weapons cheaper: The bill eliminates taxes on silencers, short-barreled rifles, and short-barreled shotguns – which have been in place since 1934 – flooding our streets with more dangerous weapons and devices that make shootings deadlier. 
       
    8. Add $4 trillion to the debt: This includes $700 billion in interest payments alone. It will cause our debt to rise to as much as 128% of our GDP by 2034, threatening to bankrupt our country and mortgaging our children’s futures. 
       
    9. Does all of this to give almost a trillion dollars of tax cuts to the top 1%: This bill is a reverse Robin Hood — transferring money from the poorest to the wealthiest. People making over $1 million will have an average tax cut of at least $80,000 a year while the bottom 20% of families will see their taxes rise.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • PM Modi shares highlights of meetings with Chile President, UN Chief and Rousseff at BRICS

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday shared glimpses of his meetings with key international figures — including Chilean President Gabriel Boric Font, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and former Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff — held on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro.

    Sharing details about his meeting with Chilean President Gabriel Boric Font, PM Modi highlighted the growing friendship between the two nations.

    “Delighted to have met President Gabriel Boric Font of Chile during the Rio BRICS Summit. India-Chile friendship is getting stronger and stronger!” PM Modi said in a post on X.

    https://x.com/narendramodi/status/1942569161743556985

    In April, the Chilean President paid a state visit to India accompanied by a high-level delegation, including ministers, Members of Parliament, senior officials, business associations, media and prominent Chileans involved in the India-Chile cultural connect.

    During that visit, which marked 76 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries, both leaders discussed in detail the historic diplomatic ties established in 1949, growing trade linkages, people-to-people connections, cultural exchanges and the warm and cordial bilateral relations. They also expressed their desire to further expand and deepen the multifaceted relationship in all areas of mutual interest.

    PM Modi also met United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres in Rio de Janeiro on Monday.

    Taking to X, PM Modi said, “Interacted with Mr. António Guterres, UN Secretary-General, on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro yesterday.”

    https://x.com/narendramodi/status/1942568681692893508

    India’s deepening engagement with the UN is based on its steadfast commitment to multilateralism and dialogue as the keys to achieving shared goals and addressing common global challenges, including peacebuilding and peacekeeping, sustainable development, poverty eradication, environment, climate change, terrorism, disarmament, human rights, health and pandemics, migration, cyber security, space and frontier technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, and comprehensive reform of the United Nations, including reform of the Security Council.

    PM Modi also shared details about his productive conversation with former Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff, who now heads the New Development Bank (NDB).

    Rousseff was in Rio de Janeiro to celebrate the progress made by the ‘BRICS Bank’ and discuss reforms of global financial institutions within the BRICS framework.

    “Productive interaction with Dilma Rousseff, President of the New Development Bank and former President of Brazil,” the Prime Minister said on X.

    https://x.com/narendramodi/status/1942569414353703136

    Earlier in the day, Lula welcomed PM Modi at the Alvorada Palace in Brasilia, where he was given a ceremonial reception featuring a 114-horse escort for his car. The two leaders then held a restricted-format meeting, followed by delegation-level discussions and the signing of agreements.

    —IANS

  • PM Modi departs for Namibia after concluding Brazil visit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday departed for Namibia after concluding his two-day visit to Brazil, where he attended the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro and held wide-ranging discussions with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

    PM Modi is on a five-nation visit, with Namibia being his final stop.

    In a post on X, the Prime Minister said, “Held fruitful talks with President Lula, who has always been passionate about the India-Brazil friendship. Our talks included ways to deepen trade ties and diversify bilateral trade. We both agree that there is immense scope for such linkages to thrive in the coming times.”

    “Clean energy, sustainable development and overcoming climate change were also prominent topics of discussion. Other areas where we will work even more closely include defence, security, AI and agriculture. India-Brazil cooperation in space, semiconductors and DPI will benefit our people,” PM Modi added.

  • MIL-OSI Video: BRICS, Bosnia & Herzegovina & other topics – Daily Press Briefing (8 July 2025) | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (video statements)

    Noon Briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    Highlights:
    Secretary-General/BRICS
    Bosnia And Herzegovina
    Haiti
    Occupied Palestinian Territory
    Ukraine
    South Sudan
    Somalia
    Briefings Tomorrow

    SECRETARY-GENERAL/BRICS
    The Secretary-General is wrapping up his visit to Rio de Janeiro, where he was attending the BRICS Summit. He held a number of bilateral meetings today, notably with the Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China, Li Qiang. They discussed cooperation between the United Nations and China, sustainable development, climate change and financing.
    And yesterday afternoon, on the margins of the BRICS, the Secretary-General also met the Iranian Foreign Minister, Seyed Abbas Araghchi. The Secretary-General noted the importance of the consolidation of the ceasefire to lay the groundwork for the resumption of negotiations.
    He also held a bilateral meeting with the Foreign Minister of Türkiye, Hakan Fidan. They exchanged views on the war in Ukraine, the situation in the Middle East and the next round of meetings on Cyprus.
    The Secretary-General is leaving Rio later today and will be back in New York at daybreak tomorrow.

    BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA
    This morning, the General Assembly held a ceremony in solidarity and reflection on the 30th anniversary of the genocide in Srebrenica, as mandated by the General Assembly.
    Courtenay Rattray, the Secretary-General’s Chef de Cabinet, delivered remarks on the Secretary-General’s behalf, saying that we must remember the more than 8,000 Bosnian Muslim men and boys who were killed at Srebrenica, and we pay tribute to the strength, to the dignity and the courage of the survivors and their families.
    Thirty years ago, the Secretary-General said in his message, the United Nations and the world failed the people of Srebrenica. This collective failure, he added, was the result of policies, propaganda, and international indifference.
    Today, he said, we remember, and we must also confront reality.
    After Srebrenica, the world said – once again – “Never Again”. Hate speech is on the rise again – fueling discrimination, extremism, and violence. We see the glorification of war criminals. We see the same dangerous currents that once led to atrocity crimes. The Secretary-General said we cannot ignore these warning signs.

    As a note, Rosemary DiCarlo, the Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, will be representing the Secretary-General at the official remembrance in Srebrenica that takes place this Friday.

    HAITI
    Turning to Haiti, where the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs report that armed attacks in the Centre department last week displaced more than 16,000 human beings. Most have found refuge with host families, while 2 per cent of them have settled in seven informal displacement sites that were created in the wake of these incidents.
    These developments reflect the continued deterioration of the security situation in Haiti, which is compounding humanitarian needs in a country where more than 1.3 million people are already internally displaced. Half of those are children. Overall, 6 million people in Haiti need humanitarian assistance, amid persistent insecurity and the gradual collapse of essential services.
    Displaced women and girls face particular risks.
    They face severe risks to their safety, including exposure to sexual and gender-based violence, with cases reported in some displacement sites.
    Despite major challenges, humanitarian partners continue to deliver life-saving assistance to the most vulnerable in Haiti. From January to March, more than 720,000 people received emergency food assistance, 25,000 people received emergency shelter kits, and 35,000 benefited from essential non-food items. Nearly 170,000 people gained access to safe drinking water, and 55,000 accessed emergency sanitation facilities.
    However, as we said yesterday, the lack of funding is significantly impacting our ability and our partners’ ability to meet the growing needs of the Haitian people. And as I said, unfortunately, the Haitian humanitarian appeal remains the least funded of all of our humanitarian appeals, which are almost all underfunded. Out of the $908 million we need, we have less than $75 million in the bank.
    OCHA remains committed to working closely with humanitarian partners, national authorities and others to increase funding levels, coordinate the delivery of assistance, facilitate humanitarian access, and ensure that the needs of Haiti’s most vulnerable people are addressed.

    Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/ossg/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=08+July+2025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9mzYocjcMe0

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Kehoe Announces Additional Funding Available for Law Enforcement Recruits with Missouri Blue Scholarship

    Source: US State of Missouri

    JULY 8, 2025

    Jefferson City — Building on his public safety priorities, Governor Mike Kehoe today announced the maximum benefit of the Missouri Blue Scholarship for law enforcement academy recruits has been increased from $5,000 to $6,000, made possible by a funding increase of $1 million in the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) budget. The scholarship program has awarded a total of $4.49 million to 995 law enforcement recruit scholarship recipients since its introduction in October 2022 through June 2025.

    “The Missouri Blue Scholarship Program has made law enforcement training more accessible to Missourians interested in joining the profession and helped bolster the number of licensed peace officers in Missouri,” Governor Kehoe said. “We appreciate the General Assembly approving our administration’s recommended $1 million increase in the scholarship fund. This increased investment allows the Missouri Department of Public Safety to raise the maximum scholarship award and make the scholarship available to more recruits who want to join the ranks of law enforcement and serve their communities.”

    The State of Missouri FY26 budget, which took effect July 1, included increased funding for the scholarship from $2 million to $3 million. In FY25, $1,917,942 was awarded for 420 recruits.

    While some Missouri law enforcement agencies, including the Highway Patrol, St. Louis Metropolitan Police and others, have their own basic training academies and pay recruits, many Missouri agencies do not have the funding to pay a salary or the cost of an academy. These graduating non-sponsored recruits are essential to staffing many sheriffs’ offices, smaller police departments, and even some larger departments. The Missouri Blue Scholarship expands the applicant pool and makes it easier for more young officers to stay in law enforcement without the burden of loans to repay once hired. Law enforcement academy tuition can be as high as $11,725.

    “Given the price of attending some of Missouri’s law enforcement academies and the shortage of officers around the state, raising the maximum scholarship amount to $6,000 is another way we can support recruitment efforts and will further allow DPS to provide scholarships to qualifying academy recruits this fiscal year,” Missouri Department of Public Safety Director Mark James said.

    Prior to the introduction of the Missouri Blue Scholarship in October 2022, an average of 1,025 peace officers were licensed annually in Missouri from 2020 to 2022. In 2023, the year the scholarship was first available before recruits started academy training, 1,050 peace officers were licensed; and in 2024, 1,099 peace officers were licensed.

    The impact of the Missouri Blue Scholarship is also evident in the number of scholarship recipients staffing Missouri law enforcement agencies. As of June 30, 2025, the Camden County Sheriff’s Office had 81 commissioned officers and 11 were Missouri Blue Scholarship recipients; the Fulton Police Department had 25 commissioned officers and 10 were Missouri Blue Scholarship recipients; the Henry County Sheriff’s Office had 29 commissioned officers and nine were Missouri Blue Scholarship recipients; and the University City Police Department had 62 commissioned officers and nine were Missouri Blue Scholarship recipients.

    The Missouri Department of Public Safety administers the scholarship, and law enforcement academy recruits can apply at this link. The $6,000 maximum scholarship is possible because of the FY26 appropriation by the Missouri General Assembly. Future scholarship awards will be determined by appropriations going forward.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Felon who Conspired to Distribute Drugs and Possessed Firearms Sentenced to Over Twenty-Five Years in Federal Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    A Cedar Rapids man who conspired to distribute controlled substance was sentenced July 7, 2025, to more than 25 years in federal prison.

    James Colquhoun, age 40, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after a February 10, 2025, guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance after a prior conviction for a serious drug felony, carrying of a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

    Evidence at the plea and sentencing hearings showed that between January 2024 and February 13, 2024, Colquhoun knowingly conspired with others to distribute significant quantities of methamphetamine in the Cedar Rapids area.  On February 13, 2024, officers stopped Colquhoun’s vehicle and searched it.  During the search, officers located over 500 grams of methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine, over $25,000, and a firearm.  Colquhoun knowingly possessed those controlled substances with the intent to distribute them.  After the traffic stop, officers searched Colquhoun’s hotel room where he resided.  During the search of his hotel room, investigators located over 600 grams of heroin, over 50 grams of methamphetamine, and another firearm.  In 2014, Colquhoun was convicted in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Iowa of distribution of a controlled substance and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and carrying a firearm during and relation to a drug trafficking crime.  

    Colquhoun was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams.  Colquhoun was sentenced to 336 months’ imprisonment.  He must also serve a 10-year term of supervised release after the prison term.  There is no parole in the federal system.

    Colquhoun is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.

    The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dillan Edwards and Special Assistant United States Attorney Michael Hudson, and it was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Homeland Security Investigations, the Cedar Rapids Police Department, and the Marion Police Department.  

    Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.

    The case file number is 24-CR-00029-001.

    Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: RGV man sent to prison after using girlfriend and minor to pass through checkpoint with illegal alien

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 42-year-old resident of Rio Grande City has been ordered to federal prison for unlawfully transporting an illegal alien, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Jason Al Venecia pleaded guilty March 26.

    U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos has now ordered Venecia to serve 24 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by two years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard additional evidence that Venecia took his girlfriend and her minor daughter with him to smuggle the illegal alien to facilitate passage through the checkpoint.

    On Jan. 2, Venecia approached the Falfurrias Border Patrol checkpoint in a Cadillac SRX. Authorities noticed two adult males in the front and an adult and minor female in the backseat. During initial inspection, the front male passenger admitted to being in the United States illegally.

    He was from Mexico with no authority to be in the United States.

    Law enforcement found multiple proof of life videos in Venecia’s cell phone from illegal aliens after they had crossed the Rio Grande River. There were text messages telling Venecia he would be paid $1,250 when the illegal aliens made it to their next destination.

    While on bond awaiting sentencing, Venecia was caught assisting his girlfriend during her own attempt to smuggle illegal aliens further into the United States. His bond was subsequently revoked and ordered into custody where he will remain pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

    Venecia’s girlfriend has since pleaded guilty to her separate case prosecuted in the McAllen Division.

    Customs and Border Protection conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Pruitt prosecuted the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Woman sentenced for smuggling firearms into Mexico

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A 38-year-old Georgia woman has been sentenced today for smuggling several firearms and magazines hidden in a vehicle’s gas tank, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Mirna Luna pleaded guilty April 1.

    U.S. District Judge Fernando Rodriguez Jr. has now handed Luna a 46-month term of imprisonment to be immediately followed by two years of supervised release. In handing down the sentence, the court noted the seriousness 0f trafficking of firearms.

    Luna traveled from her Canton, Georgia, residence Dec. 15, 2024, and attempted to cross at the Brownsville/Matamoros  port of entry into Mexico.

    Once there, authorities had referred her to secondary inspection where they discovered 17 firearms and 27 magazines hidden in the gas tank of the Nissan car she was driving.

    Luna claimed ownership of the car and admitted she is the only person who drives it. She does not have a license to export firearms and has not applied for one.

    She will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

    Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jose Esquivel and Ana Cano prosecuted the case. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: What They Are Saying: Lankford Delivers Major Victory for Charitable Giving with Key Tax Provision in One Big Beautiful Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Oklahoma James Lankford
    WASHINGTON, DC — US Senator James Lankford (R-OK), Chairman of the Senate Values Action Team and a member of the Senate Finance Committee, secured an important policy provision for charitable giving in the One Big Beautiful Bill that passed the Senate and was signed into law last week. Lankford led efforts to restore and make permanent a tax deduction for non-itemizers up to $2,000 per couple. This change will enable more Americans to support churches, charities, and nonprofits that serve the most vulnerable.
    The provision restoring the non-itemizer deduction has earned strong support from leading charitable, faith-based, and nonprofit organizations nationwide, including the Charitable Giving Coalition, Faith and Giving, Christian Alliance for Orphans (CAFO), the Nonprofit Alliance, the Association of Fundraising Professionals, the Association of Art Museum Directors, the National Council of Nonprofits, the League of American Orchestras, the National Association of Charitable Gift Planners, Philanthropy Southwest, the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA), Mental Health Matters (MHM), the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE), United Philanthropy Forum, the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC), and the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU).
    “Permanently restoring and expanding the charitable deduction is a powerful policy change that will encourage additional giving,” said Brian Flahaven, Chair of the Charitable Giving Coalition. “Continuing to strengthen the charitable deduction in the Senate bill sends a clear message that encouraging private philanthropy is a national priority. The Coalition is immensely grateful to Senators James Lankford, Chris Coons, and our other bipartisan Senate champions for their unwavering commitment to America’s charities and the communities they serve.”
    “Faith and Giving is deeply grateful to Senator Lankford, Senate Finance Chairman Mike Crapo, and their colleagues for including a more robust charitable deduction for non-itemizers in the reconciliation package,” said Brian Walsh, Executive Director of Faith and Giving. “Giving by individuals is the financial lifeblood of many thousands of American faith-based organizations. Yet since 2018 giving to religion has fallen billions of dollars short of keeping pace with inflation. The temporary non-itemizer deduction incentivized substantial additional giving in 2020 and 2021. This larger and permanent non-itemizer charitable deduction will help stimulate even more giving by lower- and middle-income taxpayers to congregations and other faith-based organizations across the country.”
    “To honor and incentivize American generosity are among the most consequential investments we can make as a nation. Private giving fuels so much of what makes life good and beautiful in our communities – from education, arts, and the great outdoors to houses of worship that nurture faith, family, relationships and character,” said Jedd Medefind, President of the Christian Alliance for Orphans (CAFO). “Private giving also undergirds virtually every effort to give a hand-up to the hurting – both via financial support and, critically, in building communities of supporters whose hearts and volunteer service follow their giving. This is truly America at her best.”
    “The Nonprofit Alliance applauds the strong bipartisan support for the Charitable Act and Senator Lankford’s leadership on this important legislation to establish a permanent charitable deduction of up to $2,000,” said Shannon McCracken, President and CEO of The Nonprofit Alliance. “While giving from itemizers has continued to increase over the last several years, smaller contributions from everyday givers have declined. It is critically important to democratize giving and engage more Americans in the act of giving to support and sustain organizations across diverse cause areas – and the Charitable Act does that.”
    “Since the temporary charitable deduction for non-itemizers was allowed to expire in 2022, the Association of Fundraising Professionals’ Fundraising Effectiveness Project has reported a sustained decline in gifts from small donors, with a drop of 8.9% in 2024 alone,” said H. Art Taylor, President and CEO of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. “This trend of continued reliance solely on large-dollar donors is unsustainable for a healthy, resilient, charitable sector. A permanent charitable deduction for non-itemizers will help reverse this decline by empowering and incentivizing everyday Americans to give, ensuring that charitable giving remains broad-based, diverse, and reflective of all communities. On behalf of our more than 26,000 fundraising professional members that raise more than $115 billion annually for charities, we thank Senator Lankford and our other bipartisan Congressional champions for their leadership in championing the original Charitable Act to restore this proven giving incentive.”
    “The Association of Art Museum Directors thanks Senator Lankford for his tireless work to restore a meaningful tax incentive for all Americans to be generous,” said Christine Anagnos, Executive Director of the Association of Art Museum Directors. “Donations to art museums make possible free and reduced admissions, educational programs, and a host of community services. The permanent reestablishment of a significant tax deduction for gifts made by people who do not itemize will encourage the participation of donors from every economic and demographic category and ensure that charitable service extends to every sector.”
    “Nonprofits are the backbone of this country, providing critical support to improve local communities and save live,” said Diane Yentel, President and CEO of the National Council of Nonprofits. “These vital organizations are led by our neighbors who step up to fill the gaps unmet by government or the private sector. On behalf of the National Council of Nonprofits’ network of more than 33,000 nonprofit organizations, I applaud Senator Lankford’s leadership in enacting a universal charitable deduction to provide the American people with a new way to support the essential work of nonprofits and their ability to serve local communities.”
    “Charitable giving provides essential support for the live performances and educational programming provided by orchestras and nonprofit arts organizations nationwide,” said Simon Woods, President and CEO of the League of American Orchestras. “We are grateful to Senator Lankford for his leadership in advancing the permanent non-itemizer charitable deduction, which will fuel increased generosity by today’s donors and incentivize future generations to invest in the work of the nonprofit sector.”
    “We applaud Senator Lankford and his colleagues for including a permanent, non-itemizer charitable deduction in their reconciliation package,” said Michael Kenyon, President and CEO of the National Association of Charitable Gift Planners. “The deduction would be paid for by a modest floor on the itemized charitable deduction that will ensure all taxpayers are incentivized to give money away. We encourage Congress to ensure this increased and permanent deduction is included in the final version of the bill as we know once a donor starts to support a cause or organization, they are much more likely to continue giving in the future, instilling a habit of philanthropy that will drive more dollars to charity for years to come from a new generation of givers.”
    “The charitable deduction for non-itemizers is a vital step toward strengthening philanthropy by providing tax incentives that can help reverse declines in charitable giving and engagement,” said Tony Fundaro, President and CEO of Philanthropy Southwest. “Members of Philanthropy Southwest continue to face unprecedented needs in their communities, and the inclusion of this provision in the tax bill encourages giving at all levels, empowering more Americans to support nonprofits tackling our most pressing challenges. We are grateful to Senator Lankford for championing generosity in our communities, his leadership on the Charitable Act, and his commitment to supporting the charitable sector.”
    “I thank Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo for including a non-itemizer charitable deduction in this legislation, and I greatly appreciate the work of leaders like Senator James Lankford and Senator Chris Coons to urge that this common-sense provision be made more robust and permanent,” said Michael Martin, President and CEO of the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA). “America is well-served by supporting habits of giving among all taxpayers—regardless of whether they itemize on their tax forms or not.”
    “I commend the efforts of policymakers who recognize the importance of making the charitable deduction permanent for non-itemizers,” said Dan Cosgrove, President and CEO of Mental Health Matters (MHM).“Encouraging generosity across all taxpayers strengthens our communities and fosters a culture of giving that benefits everyone. This provision ensures that acts of charity are rewarded, regardless of tax filing status, promoting fairness and compassion in our tax system.”
    “For more than a century, the charitable deduction has played a vital role in encouraging Americans to support the missions of schools, colleges, universities, and charitable organizations across the nation,” said Sue Cunningham, President and CEO of the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE). “Yet, access to this incentive has long been limited to those who itemize their tax returns. The Senate’s proposal in the budget reconciliation bill to make the charitable deduction available to all taxpayers is a transformative step. If enacted, we believe that it would broaden participation in giving and strengthen the capacity of institutions to fund scholarships, support students, advance research, and serve their communities. We commend Senator James Lankford for his leadership and thoughtful engagement in making this a priority in the reconciliation bill, and we thank Senator Chris Coons and the bipartisan coalition of more than 20 Senators and 60 House members who continue to champion charitable giving as a cornerstone of civic life.”
    “As a proud partner in advocating for this critical policy, United Philanthropy Forum and our network of nearly 100 philanthropy-serving organizations have long championed modernizing giving incentives,” said Deborah Aubert Thomas, President and CEO of the United Philanthropy Forum. “Making the deduction permanent will create lasting pathways for everyday Americans to invest in the nonprofits that anchor their communities—from food banks to youth programs to places of worship. We thank Senator Lankford and colleagues for their leadership in ensuring that charitable giving remains a cornerstone of American civic life and accessible to all.”
    “Southern Baptists generously give to support missions, ministries, and most importantly, the works of their local church in commitment to the Great Commission,” said Brent Leatherwood, President of the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission. “Recognizing the importance of charitable giving, Southern Baptists have consistently called for the government to implement policies that incentivize charitable giving to fuel these services. The ERLC is grateful for Senator Lankford’s tireless effort to enact a robust universal charitable deduction to encourage all taxpayers, including those that do not itemize their returns, to give generously.”
    “The Council for Christian Colleges and Universities is deeply grateful to the Senate for including an increase to the universal charitable deduction in the current reconciliation bill,” said the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities. “Our faith calls us to give — and our students learn to live generously by seeing that even small gifts can make a lasting difference. A universal charitable deduction doesn’t just support Christian higher education — it fosters a culture of generosity that supports communities. By expanding this deduction and ensuring inclusion in the final bill, the Senate is helping to sustain faith-based higher education for the next generation.”
    Background
    Lankford remains the leading voice in the Senate working to protect and expand charitable giving. In 2023, he introduced the bipartisan Charitable Act with Senator Chris Coons (D-DE) to restore and strengthen the non-itemized deduction for charitable contributions, allowing all taxpayers to deduct donations regardless of whether they itemize.
    He also introduced the Safeguarding Charity Act to protect the independence of tax-exempt organizations from burdensome federal regulations. The bill clarifies that tax-exempt status does not constitute federal financial assistance, shielding churches, nonprofits, and private schools from costly and unnecessary government overreach.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Bice Supports One Big Beautiful Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Stephanie Bice (OK-05)

    Washington, D.C.– After voting to support H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill, Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement:

    “H.R. 1 is about delivering real support to hardworking Americans. Whether you’re an oil field worker, a server, a working mom, or an hourly employee putting in overtime, this legislation will benefit you. The One Big Beautiful Bill prevents a massive tax hike on businesses and families across Oklahoma by preserving the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. It also supports workers by removing taxes on tips and overtime pay, focusing on Oklahomans who help our state grow and thrive. In addition, this legislation strengthens national security by funding Border Patrol agents and physical infrastructure along our southern border. Finally, it unleashes American energy independence, by reducing barriers to permitting, ensuring access to affordable and reliable energy for families throughout Oklahoma and across the nation.”
     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Bice Supports One Big Beautiful Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Stephanie Bice (OK-05)

    Washington, D.C.– After voting to support H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill, Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement:

    “H.R. 1 is about delivering real support to hardworking Americans. Whether you’re an oil field worker, a server, a working mom, or an hourly employee putting in overtime, this legislation will benefit you. The One Big Beautiful Bill prevents a massive tax hike on businesses and families across Oklahoma by preserving the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. It also supports workers by removing taxes on tips and overtime pay, focusing on Oklahomans who help our state grow and thrive. In addition, this legislation strengthens national security by funding Border Patrol agents and physical infrastructure along our southern border. Finally, it unleashes American energy independence, by reducing barriers to permitting, ensuring access to affordable and reliable energy for families throughout Oklahoma and across the nation.”
     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Vasquez Introduces Standalone Legislation Ahead of NDAA to Prioritize New Mexico Communities

    Source: US Representative Gabe Vasquez’s (NM-02)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) introduced two standalone bills to address critical healthcare gaps affecting military families and deliver recognition to New Mexico’s Downwinders. The bills, which have been introduced ahead of the FY26 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) markup, reflect Rep. Vasquez’s continued push to ensure New Mexico communities are prioritized in national defense policy.

    “As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I’m making sure New Mexico’s voices are heard, our families are respected, and our contributions are recognized in national policy,” said Vasquez. “By introducing these bills, I’m making clear that honoring our Downwinders and supporting our military families aren’t afterthoughts — they’re priorities. These efforts are about fairness, justice, and delivering real results for southern New Mexico.”

    The two bills include:

    • The TRICARE Travel Improvement Act, which reduces the travel reimbursement threshold under TRICARE Prime from 100 miles to 50 miles for active-duty servicemembers and their families. Currently, families stationed at White Sands Missile Range and Holloman Air Force Base who travel nearly 100 miles to El Paso for medical care are denied reimbursement due to being just under the threshold. This bill would ensure fairness for military families serving in remote areas.
    • The Downwinder Commemoration Act, which directs the Departments of Defense and Interior to place commemorative plaques in publicly accessible areas at White Sands Missile Range and Holloman Air Force Base. These plaques will recognize the harm endured by New Mexico’s Downwinders following the 1945 Trinity Test — the first nuclear detonation in U.S. history. Despite their exposure to radioactive fallout, Downwinder families were excluded from the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) until Rep. Vasquez’s successful push to reauthorize and expand RECA to include New Mexico’s Downwinders. This bill helps deliver long-overdue recognition by permanently commemorating their suffering while preserving their legacy for future generations. 

    By introducing these bills independently, Rep. Vasquez is working to ensure these local priorities are protected as the NDAA advances through the legislative process.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen, Cramer Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Establish A Combat Identifier for Remotely Piloted Aircraft Crew, Improving Services And Recognition

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Kevin Cramer (R-ND), members of the Senate Armed Services Committee, introduced the bipartisan Combat Action Recognition and Evaluation (CARE) for Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) Crews Act to establish a status identifier for remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) crew who conduct combat operations, to help increase their access to mental health services and give them proper recognition. Creating a status identifier will provide them with the recognition and access to services they deserve, which have long been overlooked and out of reach. Nevada’s Creech Air Force Base is one of the highest operational tempo RPA installations throughout the Air Force. 
    Currently, RPA crews fly combat missions from the United States, but they have no identifier in their records for combat operations performed because they are not physically located in a combat zone. If a crew member decides to change career fields within the military or leave the service, there are often barriers for the member to receive the appropriate mental health services for those exposed to a combat environment because they lack a combat status identifier. This makes it difficult for members to receive prompt mental health care while in service or through the VA once they separate, despite the continuing mental health impacts of these operations.
    “Remotely Piloted Aircraft crew like those at Creech Air Force Base in Nevada perform combat operations but have no status identifier in their records for having done so, making it challenging to receive the support and care they deserve once they transition,” said Senator Rosen. “That’s why I’m introducing this bipartisan bill to establish a status identifier for these crews in order to help improve the recognition they’ve earned and to ensure their future care. I’ll always fight to support Nevada’s servicemembers.”
    “Now more than ever, military missions use airborne ISR platforms to meet our national security objectives,” said Senator Cramer. “Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) crews, including Fargo’s Happy Hooligans and the airmen from the 319th at Grand Forks, are an integral part of the nation’s Joint Force. The CARE for RPA Crews Act recognizes the accomplishments of RPA crews and identifies the appropriate resources to keep our airmen fit for duty.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NEW REPORT: Republicans’ Extreme Tax Law Will Slash Over $232 Million From Nevada Hospitals, Endanger Health Care Access

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    Rosen Warns GOP-Passed “Big Beautiful Bill” Will Force Millions Off Health Coverage, Push Hospitals Toward Closure
    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) is raising alarm following a new report that projects that Nevada hospitals will lose more than $232 million in annual revenue as a result of the recently-passed extreme Republican tax law. The so-called “Big Beautiful Bill” includes severe cuts to Medicaid, which will decimate funding for hospitals and kick people off of their health insurance. These funding cuts will devastate rural providers and threaten access to care statewide.
    “At a time when Nevada is already facing a dire shortage of doctors, Donald Trump and Congressional Republicans will make it even harder for families to access the care they need by cutting hundreds of millions of dollars from hospitals in our state,” said Senator Rosen. “Republicans’ ‘Big Beautiful’ Betrayal will force maternity wards to close, emergency rooms to shutter, and families to have to drive hours for basic care. Hardworking Nevadans won’t forget that Trump made it harder and more expensive to see a doctor just so he could give more tax breaks for the ultra-wealthy.”
    According to the report, hospitals that can see cuts in funding as a result of Republicans’ extreme law include:

    University Medical Center in Las Vegas: $45,408,749
    Renown Regional Medical Center in Reno: $32,126,708
    Northeastern Nevada Regional Hospital in Elko: $3,144,661 
    Humboldt General Hospital in Winnemucca: $1,774,934 
    William Bee Ririe Hospital in Ely: $1,088,953 
    Battle Mountain General Hospital in Battle Mountain: $589,100 

    The full list of hospitals from this report can be found HERE.
    Senator Rosen has been a steadfast champion for Nevada’s hospitals—particularly those serving rural areas—through bipartisan legislation and federal funding wins. Earlier this year, she helped introduce bipartisan legislation to bring more doctors to underserved areas by reauthorizing and expanding the Conrad 30 program. She also introduced the bipartisan REDI Act to address the doctor shortage in rural communities by easing student loan burdens on medical residents and the bipartisan SPARC Act to create a student loan repayment program for specialists practicing in rural areas. Most recently, she secured nearly $34 million in federal funding to support health care and critical infrastructure in Nevada’s rural communities.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 07.08.2025 Sen. Cruz Announces Key Senior Staff Hire

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) announced the hiring of John Etue as Chief of Staff in his Washington, D.C. office.A Texas native, John Etue most recently served as Chief of Staff for U.S. Representative Roger Williams (TX-25), Chair of the House Small Business Committee. From 2009 to 2013, John served as Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison’s (R-TX) Advance Director. John holds a degree from the University of Texas at Austin.
    Sen. Cruz said, “I’m proud to announce the hiring of Texan John Etue as my new Chief of Staff. John has over two decades of experience working for Congressman Roger Williams, Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison, and the Texas state legislature. He is a native Texan and a selfless civil servant who will be an indispensable member of our team. Welcome to the team, John.”
    John Etue said, “I’m excited to be joining Team Cruz to bring the strong Texas spirit to Washington, D.C. It’s an honor to work for Senator Cruz and to support him in executing his legislative agenda and vision for America. I look forward to this new chapter.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaine Statement on Appointment to USMA Board of Visitors

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement after he was appointed to the Board of Visitors for the United States Military Academy at West Point:

    “I am deeply honored to be appointed to the Board of Visitors for the United States Military Academy. Since 1802, the United States Military Academy has turned thousands of patriotic young people into some of the world’s finest military officers. I look forward to serving on the Board and working to continue the tradition and excellence that West Point has upheld across generations.”

    Kaine will serve on the Board for a term coinciding with the 119th Congress.

    The Board is the central governing body for the university and is composed of six presidential appointees, six senators, and five members of the House of Representatives.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Collins Announces Nearly $5 Million in TRIO Student Support Services Grants for Maine

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

    Department of Education’s action follows Senator Collins’ urging of the Secretary at an Appropriations Hearing.

    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins, the co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional TRIO Caucus, announced that the Department of Education has awarded a total of $4,981,867 in TRIO Student Support Services grants to 11 Maine colleges and universities. These grants are given to colleges and universities to improve the retention and graduation rates of first-generation and low-income college students. The announcement comes after Senator Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, questioned Secretary of Education Linda McMahon on the proposed elimination of TRIO programs at an Appropriations hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2026 budget request for the U.S. Department of Education. 

    “I have seen the lives of countless first-generation and low-income students, not only in Maine, but across the country, changed by the TRIO program. I am glad the Secretary of Education followed through on the commitment she made to me at our Appropriations hearing to disburse these grants, and I will continue to urge the Administration to support this critical investment into our students and schools,” said Senator Collins.  

    The following Maine colleges and universities received Student Support Services grants:

    1. University of Maine – $694,807
    2. Central Maine Community College – $620,879
    3. University of Maine at Augusta – $566,531
    4. University of Southern Maine – $544,728
    5. Southern Maine Community College – $544,728 
    6. University of Maine at Presque Isle – $373,084
    7. University of Maine at Fort Kent – $356,773
    8. Kennebec Valley Community College – $352,531
    9. University of Maine at Farmington – $352,530
    10. Washington County Community College – $302,912
    11. Eastern Maine Community College – $272,364

    In June, Senator Collins announced the Department of Education’s release of TRIO Upward Bound Grants for Maine following her urging. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • Rampant Alcaraz eases past Norrie, marches into Wimbledon semis

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Carlos Alcaraz had warned that facing Cameron Norrie could be a nightmare. For a fleeting moment on Tuesday, it looked like the defending Wimbledon champion might be in for a fright.

    The Spaniard stumbled early, trailing 0-40 in his opening service game on Centre Court. Any chance of an upset, however, was swiftly dashed as Alcaraz roared to a commanding 6-2 6-3 6-3 quarter-final victory — one that should send a shudder down the spine of anyone hoping to dethrone him.

    With hundreds of empty seats at the start — fans still trickling back after Aryna Sabalenka’s drawn-out quarter-final — Alcaraz wasted no time asserting his dominance.

    By the time the crowd returned to rally behind Britain’s last remaining singles hope, the second seed had blazed through the first set in 28 minutes, dazzling with his trademark blend of power and flair.

    Norrie, unseeded and unorthodox, did his best to resist. He even raised his arms in mock celebration after holding serve late in the third set.

    But the outcome was never in doubt. Alcaraz, now on a 23-match winning streak, was simply too good.

    Alcaraz’s eighth Grand Slam semi-final will be against American Taylor Fritz but before he continues his quest for a third successive Wimbledon title he has two days off owing to the All England Club schedule.

    He would probably prefer to get straight back on court, such is the momentum he is building. When asked how he would use the time, one wag in the crowd suggested he could return to the Ibiza, the Balearic party island where he let his hair down after his second successive French Open title last month.

    MORE SEDATE

    A beaming Alcaraz said something more sedate would suffice.

    “I might try to go to the city centre if I have time. I want to play some golf with my team which will be fun,” he said.

    “What I have been doing so far has worked so we will try to switch off together.”

    Former semi-finalist Norrie was the second British player Alcaraz has faced during this year’s tournament having seen off qualifier Oliver Tarvet in the second round.

    Tarvet stretched him far more than left-hander Norrie, but that was during a first week in which the five-times Grand Slam champion was working through the gears.

    Any hope Norrie had of becoming only the third British player to knock out the defending Wimbledon men’s champion were soon extinguished by the Spanish force of nature.

    Having failed to convert four break points in the second game, Norrie gifted away his serve with double-fault and two games later his tentative volley allowed Alcaraz to wind up a ferocious dipping forehand that smacked the baseline.

    Alcaraz had blown a hot and cold in his previous matches, but it is now the business end of the tournament and the rest of the match became a procession as he wrapped up his 34th win from 37 matches he has played on grass.

    “To be able to play another semi-final here at Wimbledon is really special,” Alcaraz said. “I want to go as far as I can and I am really happy with the level I played today against a really difficult player like Cam.”

    -Reuters

  • MIL-OSI USA: DEQ welcomes EPA adding J.H. Baxter to Superfund list

    Source: US State of Oregon

    he Oregon Department of Environmental Quality welcomes the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s decision to add the J.H. Baxter site in west Eugene to the Superfund National Priorities List.

    “We thank EPA for securing the resources needed to further address the risks to public health and the environment in Eugene created by dioxins from J.H. Baxter,” said DEQ Director Leah Feldon. “The next steps will be comprehensive and time consuming, which is why it was critical for EPA to add this cleanup project to the Superfund NPL.”

    EPA is leading the cleanup of the J.H. Baxter site and will work to determine the full extent and scope of contamination. In 2024, DEQ completed cleanup of seven residential yards near the facility in a portion of Eugene’s Bethel neighborhood.

    Work on JH Baxter has been an ongoing effort supported by EPA, DEQ, OHA other state and local agencies, and — importantly — the local community.

    For more information visit DEQ’s J.H. Baxter web page.

    Learn more about EPA’s listing J.H. Baxter on the Superfund National Priorities List.

    Media contacts:

    DEQ: Lauren Wirtis, Communications Manager, lauren.wirtis@deq.oregon.gov, 503-568-3295

    EPA: r10_press_team@epa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DEQ welcomes EPA adding J.H. Baxter to Superfund list

    Source: US State of Oregon

    he Oregon Department of Environmental Quality welcomes the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s decision to add the J.H. Baxter site in west Eugene to the Superfund National Priorities List.

    “We thank EPA for securing the resources needed to further address the risks to public health and the environment in Eugene created by dioxins from J.H. Baxter,” said DEQ Director Leah Feldon. “The next steps will be comprehensive and time consuming, which is why it was critical for EPA to add this cleanup project to the Superfund NPL.”

    EPA is leading the cleanup of the J.H. Baxter site and will work to determine the full extent and scope of contamination. In 2024, DEQ completed cleanup of seven residential yards near the facility in a portion of Eugene’s Bethel neighborhood.

    Work on JH Baxter has been an ongoing effort supported by EPA, DEQ, OHA other state and local agencies, and — importantly — the local community.

    For more information visit DEQ’s J.H. Baxter web page.

    Learn more about EPA’s listing J.H. Baxter on the Superfund National Priorities List.

    Media contacts:

    DEQ: Lauren Wirtis, Communications Manager, lauren.wirtis@deq.oregon.gov, 503-568-3295

    EPA: r10_press_team@epa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • India–Brazil bilateral trade to touch $20 million over next five years: PM Modi in Brasilia

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said India and Brazil will work to expand cooperation in trade, clean energy, defence, Artificial Intelligence, and digital public infrastructure, underlining that both countries share a common vision for inclusive development and a people-centric approach to innovation.

    Speaking at a joint press statement alongside Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, PM Modi expressed his gratitude for being conferred with Brazil’s highest national honour — ‘The Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross’.

    “Today, being honoured with Brazil’s highest national award by the President of Brazil is a moment of great pride and emotion not just for me, but for 140 crore Indians. I sincerely thank the President, the Brazilian government, and the people of Brazil for this honour,” PM Modi said.

    Calling President Lula his “best friend” and “Chief Architect of the Strategic Partnership between India and Brazil,” the PM said every meeting with him has motivated him to work harder for the well-being of both nations. “I dedicate this honour to his strong commitment to India and to our enduring friendship,” he said.

    Trade and energy cooperation

    PM Modi said India and Brazil have agreed to raise bilateral trade to USD 20 billion over the next five years. “Football is Brazil’s passion, just as cricket is loved by the people of India. Whether it’s sending the ball past the boundary or into the goal, when both are on the same team, a USD 20 billion partnership is not difficult to achieve,” he said, adding that both sides will also work to expand the India–MERCOSUR Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA).

    The Prime Minister stressed that cooperation in the energy sector was steadily growing and highlighted the new agreement signed to boost collaboration on clean energy and sustainable development.

    PM Modi also extended best wishes to Lula for the upcoming COP-30 Summit to be hosted by Brazil later this year.

    Defence, AI and digital linkages

    On defence ties, PM Modi said, “Our growing cooperation in the field of defence reflects the deep mutual trust between our two countries. We will continue our efforts to connect our defence industries and strengthen this partnership further.”

    He pointed to ongoing collaboration in Artificial Intelligence and supercomputing, describing it as part of the shared goal of “inclusive development and human-centric innovation.” India’s UPI digital payments platform is also set to be adopted in Brazil, the PM said, adding that India would gladly share its experience in digital public infrastructure and space technology.

    Health, Ayurveda and people-to-people ties

    Highlighting ties in agriculture and health, PM Modi noted that cooperation in agriculture and animal husbandry spans several decades, and both sides are now working together in agricultural research and food processing too. “In the health sector too, we are enhancing our win-win collaboration. We have also emphasized the expansion of Ayurveda and traditional medicine in Brazil,” he said.

    Underscoring the importance of people-to-people connections, the Prime Minister said that the shared passion for sports — cricket and football — brings India and Brazil closer. “We wish for India–Brazil relations to be as vibrant as Carnival, as passionate as football, and as heart-connecting as Samba — all without the long visa counter queues! With this spirit, we will work together to ease people-to-people exchanges between our two nations, especially for tourists, students, sportspersons, and businessmen,” he said.

    On global issues

    PM Modi said India and Brazil have always worked in close coordination on global issues and stressed that their partnership is relevant to the Global South and the wider world. “We firmly believe that it is our moral responsibility to bring the concerns and priorities of the Global South to the forefront of the global stage,” he said.

    Calling for disputes to be resolved through “dialogue and diplomacy,” the PM said the India–Brazil partnership stands as an “important pillar of stability and balance” amid global tensions and uncertainty. He also reiterated both nations’ “zero tolerance and zero double standards” approach on terrorism, saying, “We strongly oppose both terrorism and those who support it.”

    The Prime Minister also extended an invitation to Lula to visit India and said, “Once again, on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to you for this highest national honour and for your enduring friendship.”

    Earlier in the day, Lula welcomed PM Modi at the Alvorada Palace in Brasilia, where he was given a ceremonial reception featuring a 114-horse escort for his car. The two leaders then held a restricted-format meeting, followed by delegation-level discussions and the signing of agreements.