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Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman García, Head Start Advocates Join to Demand Answers about Head Start  Office Changes

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jesús Chuy García (IL-04)

    CHICAGO – Today, Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04) joined by Gads Hill Center CEO Mariana Osoria, Dawn Delgado, Director of Early Learning at Metropolitan Family Services and Viviana Vergara, Home Visiting Supervisor and parent advocate at El Hogar del Niño, held a press conference to discuss the arbitrary decision by the Trump administration to close the Region 5 Office of Head Start (OHS) will have on children, parents and providers. The Congressman also hosted an early education roundtable to brief education partners on key issues and concerns related to grant administration and program oversight.  

    “Early childhood education cannot be an afterthought. It is essential for our children, especially for low-income and working families,” said Congressman García. “Since the regional office here in Chicago closed, many providers have told us they feel ignored by the federal government. There’s no guidance, no answers, and that’s not fair to our communities. Parents are nervous about whether their children will be able to remain in the program.”

    “Research confirms that 90% of a child’s brain develops in the first five years of their lives, making this the best time to invest in them. If we want a thriving, growing country, let’s invest in that critical foundation that sets the brain architecture for optimal, life-long learning,” said Gads Hill Center CEO Mariana Osoria. “Head Start and Early Head Start programs do just that for our youngest learners regardless of their zip code, regardless of whether the program is in an urban or rural community.  Simply put, Head Start works.”

    “Head Start is not just an early education program—it provides services such as health screenings, nutritious meals, mental health services, and parental support that helps communities thrive.  Cutting funding jeopardizes these wraparound services critical for healthy child development,” said Director of Early Learning at Metropolitan Family Services Dawn Delgado. “Additionally, Head Start supports low-income families with family counseling, job training, and additional support to overcoming poverty, and it also enables parents to work, to stay working, or attend school as it serves as reliable childcare with an emphasis on early childhood education.”

    “I am the product of Head Start; I am the daughter of a working-class immigrant family who did everything to give me the best start possible.  Now that I am a parent, both of my children are Head Start babies, and it truly is because of this program that I get to do what I love. Head Start has been fundamental to me being able to go to school,  have a career and advocate for my community. Every day I know that I am leaving my children in a safe place where they are not only being taken care of, but they are safe, and they are learning! They go to a place that is not just a building, but like a second home,” said Home Visiting Supervisor and parent advocate at El Hogar del Niño, Viviana Vergara. “At this moment, the unknown is what brings fear, because there are so many families in need of services and agencies who they can depend on to help them thrive, so that they can in return help our communities thrive.”

     Earlier this month, Rep. García led 24 Members of Congress in sending a letter to Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. demanding answers about the abrupt decision to close all Head Start offices in Region 5. The move was announced without prior notice or implementation guidance, prompting widespread confusion among families, providers, and staff. As of June 16, Sec. Kennedy  has not provided answers. 

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: View from The Hill: Jim Chalmers wants to get on with economic reform and tax is in his sights

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    Jim Chalmers speaking to the National Press Club June 18, 2025. Screenshot from the ABC Broadcast, CC BY-NC

    Jim Chalmers cast his Wednesday National Press Club speech as a second instalment in a two-part presentation that was kicked off by the prime minister in an address there last week.

    But it didn’t sound like that at all. In fact, the two performances were chalk and cheese. Albanese’s contribution was cautious, showing no inclination to splash too much of the political capital amassed from a huge election win. The prime minister looks to a legacy of Labor’s longevity in government, and extols a measured and steady style.

    In contrast, Chalmers on Wednesday came across as a man on a mission, anxious to seize this term to do bigger things, because no matter how large the majority, you never know what the future holds. And that’s apart from his ambition to ascend to the top rung of the political ladder.

    Albanese announced a roundtable in August to discuss productivity; in elaborating on it, Chalmers put the hot button issue of tax reform prominently on the table.

    The treasurer believes the community is up for significant economic reforms, if the changes are crafted and sold the right way and if sufficient of that elusive political grape, “consensus”, can be harvested and bottled. He’s also willing to stretch or exceed the electoral mandate Labor won on May 3. Remember, it was Chalmers who wanted to break the Stage 3 tax cut promise long before Albanese did so.

    He said on Wednesday: “This is all about testing the country’s reform appetite. […] I am personally willing to grasp the nettle, to use an old saying. I am prepared to do my bit. The government is prepared to do its bit. And what we’ll find out in the course of the next few months is whether everyone is prepared to do their bit as well.” He was heartened, post election, by a “welcome and encouraging discussion about the level of ambition that Australia has”.

    Albanese was involved in Chalmers’ Press Club speech, even interacting on its points from Canada, where he was attending the G7. Either the prime minister is deliberately letting his treasurer “front run” a more ambitious agenda for the government, or he doesn’t choose to get in his way.

    Albanese announced the roundtable, but Chalmers is in charge of it. Held in the cabinet room on August 19-21, it will be small and, Chalmers hopes, non-performative. Details are still being finalised, but Chalmers doesn’t anticipate “permanent cameras” in the cabinet room, which has just 25 seats around the table.

    “We want participants to make contributions that meet three important preconditions,” he said.

    “First, ideas should be put forward in the national interest, not through the prism of sectoral, state or vested interests.

    “Second, ideas or packages of ideas should be budget neutral at a minimum but preferably budget positive overall, taking into account the necessary trade-offs.

    “And third, ideas should be specific and practical not abstract or unrealistic.

    “In return I give everyone this commitment: we won’t come at this from an ideological point of view but from the practical, pragmatic and problem-solving middle ground we’re most comfortable on.”

    Chalmers argues that last term, the government did a range of things on tax. But most would describe them as modest, and he would not then contemplate a major overhaul, such as a shift from direct to indirect tax.

    He was seared, on his own admission, from his days as then treasurer Wayne Swan’s staffer, by the memory of the Henry tax review, the last major look at Australia’s tax system. That triggered Labor’s mining tax debacle which helped end the prime ministership of Kevin Rudd. Most of that valuable review was totally wasted.

    Now Ken Henry, former head of treasury, has had input into Chalmers’ Press Club speech; he was in the audience to hear it.

    “Australia has to recognise that this is genuinely a defining decade. The decisions we make in the 2020s will determine the sort of living standards and intergenerational justice that will have in the decades to come,” Chalmers said. Intergenerational justice is a major preoccupation of Henry’s.

    If Henry is in Chalmers’ ear, another proponent of tax reform, Steven Kennedy, who has just left the post of secretary of the treasury, is well-placed to be in the prime minister’s ear. Kennedy has just become head of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.

    While the roundtable is focused on “productivity” Chalmers emphasised he is also focused on budget sustainability.

    “Tax reform is important to budget sustainability , but also to productivity.

    “I think it would be unusual if I said to the country, we’re going to have this big national reform conversation about productivity, sustainability and resilience, but nobody’s allowed to talk about tax

    “And so I anticipate, I welcome the fact that people will come to the roundtable, outside the roundtable, people will pitch up ideas about tax.

    “We don’t see that as an opportunity to walk back on some of the things that we’re already committed to, in this case, some years ago. We see it as an opportunity to work out what the next steps might be.”

    Chalmers is the latest treasurer to walk down the tax reform road. The stakes are high. It will be easy to slip, or be forced to lose ambition. On the other hand, if he can navigate the rocks it will make his reputation.

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

    – ref. View from The Hill: Jim Chalmers wants to get on with economic reform and tax is in his sights – https://theconversation.com/view-from-the-hill-jim-chalmers-wants-to-get-on-with-economic-reform-and-tax-is-in-his-sights-258973

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Polytechnic graduate from Gabon: “St. Petersburg has become my second home”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    Atonfak Donfak Etienne Gaetan graduated from the Institute of Mechanical Engineering, Materials and Transport of SPbPU. As a student, he wanted to “just finish his studies.” Now Etienne works as an engineer and services one of the most complex subways in the world. In an interview, he talked about how perseverance and respect for other cultures break stereotypes.

    — Etienne, tell us how your studies at the Polytechnic went?

    — I entered the IMMiT bachelor’s program in 2015, majoring in Mechanical Engineering Technology, and before that I studied for a year at the preparatory faculty to learn Russian. This is my first higher education. Before going to Russia, I studied economics at a university in Gabon for two years, but because of constant teacher strikes, my studies were going poorly. Then I decided to try to enroll abroad.

    — Why did you choose Russia?

    — At school I was interested in history, and I was surprised by how often Western media criticized Russia. I wanted to understand for myself what it was really like. Although my family was shocked — all my relatives studied in Europe or the USA. But I insisted: I said that I wanted to see Russia with my own eyes.

    — Was it difficult to adapt?

    — Very much! When I arrived, I saw almost no foreigners. I was surprised that students are not allowed to work part-time here — in Gabon, it’s the norm. The first few months, I even wanted to go home, but I decided not to give up.

    — Share your impressions of what Polytechnic has become for you?

    — The university is strong, but demanding. If you don’t pass the exams, you can be expelled, even if you are a fee-paying student. The teachers were understanding: if something was unclear because of the language, we stayed after classes to have it explained to us in English. My most vivid memories are defending my diploma. There were only three of us in the department, but the committee highly appreciated the work we had done.

    — Was it difficult to master the Russian language?

    – Yes, I studied poetry at the preparatory department to pass the exams. But now I speak fluently, albeit with an accent.

    — What cities did you manage to visit in Russia?

    — Only in St. Petersburg. This is my comfort zone: my son was born here, my friends live here, I got a job in this city. I consider St. Petersburg my second home. My family still doesn’t believe that I stayed in Russia. But I love this country: everything is honest here. If you work, you are respected.

    — What advice would you give to foreign students?

    — Prepare yourself for serious study. Polytechnic is not an easy option. But if you endure, all doors will open for you. And don’t be afraid to dream. I, a guy from Gabon, became an engineer in the metro. So, everything is possible!

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Jun 18, 2025 0730 UTC Day 3 Severe Thunderstorm Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    SPC AC 180730

    Day 3 Convective Outlook
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    0230 AM CDT Wed Jun 18 2025

    Valid 201200Z – 211200Z

    …THERE IS A SLIGHT RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS FOR PARTS OF THE
    NORTHERN PLAINS INTO THE UPPER MIDWEST/GREAT LAKES…

    …SUMMARY…
    Severe thunderstorms may develop Friday into Friday night across
    parts of the northern Plains and upper Midwest.

    …Synopsis…
    An upper-level ridge is forecast to amplify on Friday from the
    southern Plains into parts of the MS/OH Valleys, as a seasonably
    deep mid/upper-level trough moves gradually eastward over the West.
    Rich low-level moisture will continue to stream northward to the
    east of a deepening lee surface cyclone across the northern High
    Plains. Multiple shortwaves may emanate out of the western trough
    and traverse the periphery of the building ridge from the northern
    Rockies/Plains into the Upper Midwest and parts of Great Lakes.

    …Northern Great Plains into the Upper Midwest/Great Lakes…
    Uncertainty remains high regarding the details of convective
    evolution Friday into Friday night, but potential for severe storm
    development within a relatively volatile environment remains
    evident.

    To the east of the High Plains cyclone and trailing surface trough,
    and along/south of an effective warm front, strong to extreme
    buoyancy will develop Friday afternoon across parts of the
    central/northern Plains into the Upper Midwest. Details of diurnal
    storm development (if any) within this regime remain unclear.
    Warming temperatures aloft may tend to suppress development across
    the warm sector, but shortwaves emanating out of the western
    mid/upper-level trough may aid in development of an isolated
    supercell or two near the surface trough/dryline and/or effective
    warm front. Any surface-based development within this regime could
    pose a threat for all severe hazards.

    A somewhat more likely scenario is for storms to expand in coverage
    near/north of the warm front during the evening, in response to a
    strengthening low-level jet and related warm-advection regime. Large
    to extreme buoyancy and favorable deep-layer shear will support
    organized convection, with upscale growth into a potentially intense
    MCS possible with time. At this time, the most likely MCS corridor
    appears to be somewhere from eastern ND into central/northern MN,
    northern WI, and upper MI, though uncertainty remains high due to
    varying guidance solutions regarding the location of the warm front
    and evolution of the low-level jet.

    Despite the remaining uncertainty, a Slight Risk has been added
    given the conditional potential for significant severe weather. Some
    adjustments to this area will likely be needed with time, along with
    possible upgrades.

    …Montana…
    Low-level easterly flow will transport modest moisture into parts of
    central/western MT during the day on Friday. Increasingly difluent
    upper-level flow associated with the deep western trough will
    support development of scattered to numerous thunderstorms through
    the day into Friday night. Elongated hodographs will support
    organized storms, with a threat of at least isolated hail and strong
    to severe gusts with initial convection over western MT. One or more
    clusters may move into central and northeast MT by evening, with a
    continued threat of severe gusts and hail. Depending on trends
    regarding destabilization, greater severe probabilities may
    eventually be needed.

    …Lower Great Lakes into the Northeast…
    Modest low-level moistening is possible during the day on Friday
    from the lower Great Lakes into the Northeast, within a developing
    northwesterly flow regime in the wake of a departing mid/upper-level
    trough. While wind profiles may become somewhat favorable for
    organized convection, relatively cool post-frontal conditions and
    generally weak midlevel lapse rates will tend to limit
    destabilization, and any foci for robust storm development are not
    clear at this time.

    ..Dean.. 06/18/2025

    CLICK TO GET WUUS03 PTSDY3 PRODUCT

    NOTE: THE NEXT DAY 3 OUTLOOK IS SCHEDULED BY 1930Z

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Jun 18, 2025 0600 UTC Day 2 Convective Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    SPC AC 180554

    Day 2 Convective Outlook
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    1254 AM CDT Wed Jun 18 2025

    Valid 191200Z – 201200Z

    …THERE IS A SLIGHT RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS FROM PARTS OF NEW
    ENGLAND INTO THE MID ATLANTIC AND NORTH CAROLINA…

    …SUMMARY…
    Strong to potentially severe thunderstorms are forecast on Thursday
    from parts of New England into the Mid Atlantic and Carolinas.

    …Synopsis…
    A seasonably deep mid/upper-level trough is forecast to move from
    the lower Great Lakes region into the Northeast and Mid Atlantic on
    Thursday. A surface low will move across parts of Quebec during the
    day and evening, as a trailing cold front moves across parts of New
    England, the Mid Atlantic, and Carolinas/Southeast.

    An upstream midlevel shortwave trough will move across parts of
    northern MN into WI and upper MI by evening. An amplified
    mid/upper-level trough will move gradually eastward across the
    western CONUS, as an upper-level ridge initially over the southern
    Rockies begins to break down and shift eastward. In response to this
    trough, a surface low will gradually deepen across the northern High
    Plains.

    …New England into the Mid Atlantic/Southeast…
    Relatively rich low-level moisture will stream northward ahead of
    the front approaching New England and the Mid Atlantic during the
    day on Thursday. Moderate buoyancy may develop as far north as
    northern NY/VT, with pockets of stronger heating/destabilization
    farther south into the Mid Atlantic and Carolinas/Southeast.

    The strongest deep-layer flow/shear is still expected from
    PA/northern NJ northward into New England, where wind profiles will
    be conditionally supportive of supercells and organized bowing
    segments. Damaging winds and perhaps a tornado could accompany the
    strongest storms in this area.

    Farther south into the southern Mid Atlantic and Carolinas,
    deep-layer flow will be somewhat unidirectional and weaker, but
    still sufficient for some organized convection. Clusters capable of
    producing scattered wind damage will be possible, especially in
    areas where stronger diurnal heating/destabilization occurs.

    Deep-layer flow will be rather weak into parts of MS/AL/GA/SC, but
    the glancing influence of the mid/upper-level trough and relatively
    large MLCAPE and PW will support storms capable of producing
    isolated strong/damaging gusts.

    …Southwest MT and vicinity…
    Weak midlevel height falls are still expected across parts of
    western MT Thursday afternoon/evening, in response to the
    approaching mid/upper-level trough. Low-level moisture will remain
    limited, but strong diurnal heating will support high-based storm
    development. Steep low-level lapse rates and relatively strong
    midlevel flow will result in potential for isolated severe gusts
    during the afternoon and evening as convection spreads eastward.

    …Upper Midwest…
    Low-level warm advection related to the southeastward-moving
    midlevel shortwave trough may aid in storm development on Thursday
    from northern MN into parts of WI and upper MI. Moderate instability
    and sufficient deep-layer shear will support potential for a few
    stronger cells/clusters capable of producing large hail and damaging
    wind. Additional strong to locally severe storms may redevelop later
    Thursday night across parts of this region, in response to a
    nocturnally strengthening low-level jet.

    …Northern Plains…
    Diurnal heating of an increasingly moist airmass will result in
    moderate to strong buoyancy across parts of the northern Plains by
    Thursday afternoon. Deep-layer shear will be sufficient for
    organized storms, but diurnal storm development remains highly
    uncertain amid background midlevel height rises associated with a
    building ridge. Development of a storm or two cannot be ruled out
    through evening near a surface trough/weak dryline. Elevated storm
    coverage may increase somewhat Thursday night in response to a
    strengthening low-level jet, which could pose a threat of hail and
    localized strong gusts.

    ..Dean.. 06/18/2025

    CLICK TO GET WUUS02 PTSDY2 PRODUCT

    NOTE: THE NEXT DAY 2 OUTLOOK IS SCHEDULED BY 1730Z

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Jun 18, 2025 0600 UTC Day 1 Convective Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

     For best viewing experience, please enable browser JavaScript support.

    Jun 18, 2025 0600 UTC Day 1 Convective Outlook

    Click to see valid 1Z – 12Z Day 1 Convective Outlook

    Updated: Wed Jun 18 05:28:12 UTC 2025 (Print Version |   |  )

    Probabilistic to Categorical Outlook Conversion Table

     Forecast Discussion

    SPC AC 180528

    Day 1 Convective Outlook
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    1228 AM CDT Wed Jun 18 2025

    Valid 181200Z – 191200Z

    …THERE IS AN ENHANCED RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS FROM SOUTHEAST
    MISSOURI INTO SOUTHERN LOWER MICHIGAN AND WESTERN OHIO…

    …SUMMARY…
    Strong to severe storms are expected today from parts of southern
    Missouri northeastward into southern lower Michigan and western
    Ohio. Damaging winds, isolated hail, and a few tornadoes will be
    possible. More isolated severe storms may develop across the
    southern Plains.

    …Midwest/Southern Great Lakes…

    A shortwave upper trough is forecast to move across the Mid-MS
    Valley and Midwest today. A swath of enhanced deep-layer
    southwesterly flow ahead of this feature will overspread portions of
    the Ozarks to the Ohio Valley and southern Great Lakes ahead of a
    surface front. A seasonally warm and moist airmass ahead of the
    front/composite outflow will support moderate destabilization. A
    surface low/MCV will develop northeast across central/northern IL to
    southern Lower MI during the afternoon into early evening. The
    current expectation is that thunderstorms will develop ahead of the
    surface low and front, with a mix of clusters and line segments.
    Midlevel lapse rates will remain modest, but isolated large hail is
    possible. More likely, damaging gusts will be the main hazard as
    linear convection develops ahead of the front. Tornado potential is
    possible near the surface low from portions of northeast IL into
    northern IN/southern Lower MI where low-level shear may be
    maximized. However, forecast guidance varies considerable regarding
    this scenario, so will maintain 5 percent tornado probabilities at
    this time.

    …TX/OK to the Mid-South…

    A very moist and unstable airmass will be in place across the
    region. A northeast to southwest oriented outflow boundary related
    to an MCS that is currently ongoing across northern OK as of 06z
    this morning will be draped across the Red River/southern OK
    vicinity into the Ozarks. Isolated to scattered thunderstorms are
    expected to develop diurnally. Large-scale ascent will be nebulous,
    but supercell wind profiles and strong instability/steep lapse rates
    will support isolated damaging wind and hail potential.

    …Northern Plains…

    Modest boundary layer moisture beneath steep midlevel lapse rates
    will support weak diurnal destabilization. Increasing
    west/northwesterly flow with height will provide sufficient shear
    for some storm organization and elongated/straight hodographs are
    indicated in forecast soundings. Furthermore, a deeply mixed
    boundary layer is evident. This should support isolated hail and
    strong gusts during the afternoon/early evening.

    …Mid-Atlantic…

    Strong heating of a very moist airmass will support moderate
    destabilization. Deep-layer westerly flow will remain somewhat weak,
    but sufficient for multicell clusters. Strong gusts may accompany
    this activity.

    ..Leitman/Weinman.. 06/18/2025

    CLICK TO GET WUUS01 PTSDY1 PRODUCT

    .html”>Latest Day 2 Outlook/Today’s Outlooks/Forecast Products/Home

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC – No MDs are in effect as of Wed Jun 18 08:16:02 UTC 2025

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Current Mesoscale DiscussionsUpdated:  Wed Jun 18 08:19:02 UTC 2025 No Mesoscale Discussions are currently in effect.

    Notice:  The responsibility for Heavy Rain Mesoscale Discussions has been transferred to the Weather Prediction Center (WPC) on April 9, 2013. Click here for the Service Change Notice.
    Archived Convective ProductsTo view convective products for a previous day, type in the date you wish to retrieve (e.g. 20040529 for May 29, 2004). Data available since January 1, 2004.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC – No watches are valid as of Wed Jun 18 08:16:02 UTC 2025

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Current Convective Watches (View What is a Watch? clip)Updated:  Wed Jun 18 08:19:05 UTC 2025 No watches are currently valid

    Archived Convective ProductsTo view convective products for a previous day, type in the date you wish to retrieve (e.g. 20040529 for May 29, 2004). Data available since January 1, 2004.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • Zelenskiy leaves G7 with no Trump meeting or fresh arms support from US

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy left the Group of Seven summit on Tuesday with new aid from host Canada for its war against Russia but said diplomacy is in “crisis” having missed the chance to press U.S. President Donald Trump for more weapons.

    The G7 wealthy nations struggled to find unity over the conflict in Ukraine after Trump expressed support for Russian President Vladimir Putin and left a day early to address the Israel-Iran conflict from Washington.

    A Canadian official initially said Ottawa had dropped plans for the G7 to issue a strong statement on the war in Ukraine after resistance from the United States.

    Emily Williams, director of media relations for Prime Minister Mark Carney, later said no proposed statement on Ukraine had ever been planned.

    Carney had started the day by announcing Ottawa would provide C$2 billion ($1.47 billion) in new military assistance for Kyiv as well as impose new financial sanctions.

    Zelenskiy said he had told the G7 leaders that “diplomacy is now in a state of crisis” and said they need to continue calling on Trump “to use his real influence” to force an end to the war, in a post on his Telegram account.

    Although Canada is one of Ukraine’s most vocal defenders, its ability to help it is far outweighed by the United States, the largest arms supplier to Kyiv. Zelenskiy had said he hoped to talk to Trump about acquiring more weapons.

    After the summit in the Rocky Mountain resort area of Kananaskis concluded, Carney issued a chair statement summarizing deliberations.

    “G7 leaders expressed support for President Trump’s efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace in Ukraine,” it said.

    “They recognized that Ukraine has committed to an unconditional ceasefire, and they agreed that Russia must do the same. G7 leaders are resolute in exploring all options to maximize pressure on Russia, including financial sanctions.”

    Canada holds the rotating G7 presidency this year. Other leaders do not need to sign off on G7 chair statements.

    Trump did agree to a group statement published on Monday calling for a resolution of the Israel-Iran conflict.

    “We had a declaration given the exceptional, fast moving situation in Iran,” Carney told a closing news conference.

    A European official said leaders had stressed to Trump their plans to be hard on Russia and Trump seemed impressed, though he does not like sanctions in principle.

    Three European diplomats said they had heard signals from Trump that he wanted to raise pressure on Putin and consider a U.S. Senate bill drafted by Senator Lindsey Graham, but that he had not committed to anything.

    “I am returning to Germany with cautious optimism that decisions will also be made in America in the coming days to impose further sanctions against Russia,” German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said.

    G7 leaders agreed on six other statements, about migrant smuggling, artificial intelligence, critical minerals, wildfires, transnational repression and quantum computing.

    KREMLIN SAYS G7 LOOKS ‘RATHER USELESS’

    Trump said on Monday he needed to be back in Washington as soon as possible due to the situation in the Middle East, where escalating attacks between Iran and Israel have raised risks of a broader regional conflict.

    A White House official on Tuesday said Trump explained that he returned to the U.S. because it is better to hold high-level National Security Council meetings in person, rather than over the phone.

    Upon arriving at the summit, Trump said that the then-Group of Eight had been wrong to expel Russia after Putin ordered the occupation of Crimea in 2014.

    The Kremlin said on Tuesday that Trump was right and said the G7 was no longer significant for Russia and looked “rather useless.”

    Many leaders had hoped to negotiate trade deals with Trump, but the only deal signed was the finalization of the U.S.-UK deal announced last month. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent remained at the summit after Trump left.

    Carney also invited non-G7 members Mexico, India, Australia, South Africa, South Korea and Brazil, as he tries to shore up alliances elsewhere and diversify Canada’s exports away from the United States.

    Carney warmly welcomed Indian counterpart Narendra Modi on Tuesday, after two years of tense relations between Canada and India.

    (Reuters)

  • Zelenskiy leaves G7 with no Trump meeting or fresh arms support from US

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy left the Group of Seven summit on Tuesday with new aid from host Canada for its war against Russia but said diplomacy is in “crisis” having missed the chance to press U.S. President Donald Trump for more weapons.

    The G7 wealthy nations struggled to find unity over the conflict in Ukraine after Trump expressed support for Russian President Vladimir Putin and left a day early to address the Israel-Iran conflict from Washington.

    A Canadian official initially said Ottawa had dropped plans for the G7 to issue a strong statement on the war in Ukraine after resistance from the United States.

    Emily Williams, director of media relations for Prime Minister Mark Carney, later said no proposed statement on Ukraine had ever been planned.

    Carney had started the day by announcing Ottawa would provide C$2 billion ($1.47 billion) in new military assistance for Kyiv as well as impose new financial sanctions.

    Zelenskiy said he had told the G7 leaders that “diplomacy is now in a state of crisis” and said they need to continue calling on Trump “to use his real influence” to force an end to the war, in a post on his Telegram account.

    Although Canada is one of Ukraine’s most vocal defenders, its ability to help it is far outweighed by the United States, the largest arms supplier to Kyiv. Zelenskiy had said he hoped to talk to Trump about acquiring more weapons.

    After the summit in the Rocky Mountain resort area of Kananaskis concluded, Carney issued a chair statement summarizing deliberations.

    “G7 leaders expressed support for President Trump’s efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace in Ukraine,” it said.

    “They recognized that Ukraine has committed to an unconditional ceasefire, and they agreed that Russia must do the same. G7 leaders are resolute in exploring all options to maximize pressure on Russia, including financial sanctions.”

    Canada holds the rotating G7 presidency this year. Other leaders do not need to sign off on G7 chair statements.

    Trump did agree to a group statement published on Monday calling for a resolution of the Israel-Iran conflict.

    “We had a declaration given the exceptional, fast moving situation in Iran,” Carney told a closing news conference.

    A European official said leaders had stressed to Trump their plans to be hard on Russia and Trump seemed impressed, though he does not like sanctions in principle.

    Three European diplomats said they had heard signals from Trump that he wanted to raise pressure on Putin and consider a U.S. Senate bill drafted by Senator Lindsey Graham, but that he had not committed to anything.

    “I am returning to Germany with cautious optimism that decisions will also be made in America in the coming days to impose further sanctions against Russia,” German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said.

    G7 leaders agreed on six other statements, about migrant smuggling, artificial intelligence, critical minerals, wildfires, transnational repression and quantum computing.

    KREMLIN SAYS G7 LOOKS ‘RATHER USELESS’

    Trump said on Monday he needed to be back in Washington as soon as possible due to the situation in the Middle East, where escalating attacks between Iran and Israel have raised risks of a broader regional conflict.

    A White House official on Tuesday said Trump explained that he returned to the U.S. because it is better to hold high-level National Security Council meetings in person, rather than over the phone.

    Upon arriving at the summit, Trump said that the then-Group of Eight had been wrong to expel Russia after Putin ordered the occupation of Crimea in 2014.

    The Kremlin said on Tuesday that Trump was right and said the G7 was no longer significant for Russia and looked “rather useless.”

    Many leaders had hoped to negotiate trade deals with Trump, but the only deal signed was the finalization of the U.S.-UK deal announced last month. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent remained at the summit after Trump left.

    Carney also invited non-G7 members Mexico, India, Australia, South Africa, South Korea and Brazil, as he tries to shore up alliances elsewhere and diversify Canada’s exports away from the United States.

    Carney warmly welcomed Indian counterpart Narendra Modi on Tuesday, after two years of tense relations between Canada and India.

    (Reuters)

  • Nearly 1.5 million tickets sold for Club World Cup, FIFA says

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Fans from over 130 countries have purchased nearly 1.5 million tickets for the Club World Cup that kicked off last weekend in its newly expanded format across the United States, FIFA said on Tuesday.

    A crowd of more than 60,000 turned up for the opener at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium on Saturday, which featured Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi, while some 80,000 were in the Rose Bowl stands as Paris St Germain beat Atletico Madrid 4-0 on Sunday.

    Yet some matches have also been sparsely attended, as a 0-0 draw between Borussia Dortmund and Fluminense that kicked off midday on Tuesday played out to a half-empty MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

    While Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca described the atmosphere at his team’s game against Los Angeles FC as “a bit strange”, as a little over 22,000 spectators came to watch at the 71,000 capacity Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on Monday.

    “This is exactly what the FIFA Club World Cup was created for: a world-class stage where new stories are told, new heroes emerge, and club football fans feel part of something bigger,” FIFA President Gianni Infantino said in a statement.

    Designed as a glittering curtain-raiser for the 2026 World Cup, FIFA hopes to build enthusiasm for the quadrennial spectacle among often soccer-ambivalent fans in the U.S., which will co-host the tournament next year with Canada and Mexico.

    Concerns had been rampant, however, after a lacklustre Copa America in 2024 that played out on sub-par pitches to half-empty stadiums and ended with a fan security fiasco at the final in Miami.

    -REUTERS

  • MIL-OSI China: River Plate cruise, Dortmund and Inter draw at Club World Cup

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

    European sides were left frustrated at the FIFA Club World Cup on Tuesday as Borussia Dortmund and Inter Milan shared the points with Fluminense and Monterrey, respectively.

    South America’s River Plate claimed the day’s most emphatic victory with a 3-1 defeat of Urawa Red Diamonds while Mamelodi Sundowns edged Ulsan 1-0.

    Marcel Sabitzer (R) of Borussia Dortmund vies for the ball during the Group F match between Fluminense FC of Brazil and Borussia Dortmund of Germany at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 in New Jersey, the United States, June 17, 2025. (Xinhua/Wu Xiaoling)

    In New Jersey, Brazil’s Fluminense was left to rue its profligacy in a goalless draw with Germany’s Borussia Dortmund.

    The Rio de Janeiro outfit looked more likely to score at MetLife Stadium but could not find a way past Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel, who made a series of fine saves.

    “We showed that we are a great club and that we are going to be difficult opponents for anyone,” Fluminense’s Colombian midfielder Jhon Arias told reporters.

    “We were aware of Borussia’s quality and the level of European football, but we were superior for most of the match. That gives us peace of mind and confidence to continue playing like we did today.”

    Argentina’s River Plate began its Group E campaign with a 3-1 victory over Japan’s Urawa Red Diamonds in Seattle.

    The Buenos Aires club opened the scoring when Facundo Colidio timed his run to perfection to meet Marcos Acuna’s cross with a thumping header from the edge of the six-yard box.

    Sebastian Driussi doubled the advantage shortly after, nodding home following a defensive miscue.

    Urawa pulled a goal back through Yusuke Matsuo, who converted from the penalty spot after Takuro Kaneko was brought down by Acuna.

    Substitute Maximiliano Meza restored the two-goal cushion, rising to meet Acuna’s corner with a bullet header that beat goalkeeper Shusaku Nishikawa at his near post.

    “The most important thing was to win, but we know we have to improve,” River Plate manager Marcelo Gallardo said.

    “We suffered from nerves, which is understandable. But our upcoming matches are going to be more demanding and we have to be ready.”

    In Orlando, a first-half goal from Iqraam Rayners gave South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns a 1-0 win over South Korean side Ulsan.

    Rayners ran onto Lucas Ribeiro’s inch-perfect pass before calmly toe-poking a right-footed shot into the far corner.

    “In this competition, it’s not easy to achieve victories,” Sundowns manager Miguel Cardoso said. “Today, I think we released a lot of energy in the right way.”

    In the day’s late match at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, Inter Milan was held to a 1-1 draw by Monterrey after Lautaro Martinez cancelled out an early Sergio Ramos goal.

    The Mexican side struck first when former Real Madrid defender Ramos rose highest to send a header past Argentine goalkeeper Esteban Andrada after Oliver Torres’ corner.

    Martinez leveled just before halftime, combining with Carlos Augusto to slot home from point-blank range.

    The Italian Serie A giants dominated possession after the break but were denied by Monterrey’s disciplined defensive block. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: The Copper Scramble: African Mining Week to Examine Merger & Acquisition (M&A) Deals


    Download logo

    The upcoming African Mining Week (AMW) conference (http://apo-opa.co/3I0IzOl) – scheduled for October 1–3, 2025, in Cape Town – will spotlight how Merger & Acquisition (M&A) deals are propelling the continent’s copper industry forward. A power chat will take place, titled The Copper Scramble: How Mergers are Reshaping the Global Supply Chain. The session is expected to unpack the impact M&A deals have had and will continue to play on Africa’s copper industry, highlighting recent deals and investment opportunities across the market.

    Driven by the global energy transition and the demands of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, African countries are leveraging the surge in copper demand to boost investments across the value chain. Strengthened policies, underexplored mining acreage and emerging investment opportunities have enticed a string of M&A activity, particularly across major copper producers in Africa. The AMW 2025 session on copper will explore how recent mergers are driving production across select markets.

    African Mining Week serves as a premier platform for exploring the full spectrum of mining opportunities across Africa. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference from October 1-3 in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com.

    Striving to produce three million tons of copper per annum by 2031, Zambia – the continent’s second-largest copper producer – has witnessed several impactful M&A deals recently. These include the $1.1 billion acquisition of the Mopani Mine in 2024 made by UAE-based International Resource Holdings (http://apo-opa.co/4jZBWJN), set to increase copper production to 300,000 tons within three years, and China’s JCHX Mining Management (http://apo-opa.co/3Ttgthj) acquisition of the Lubambe Mine, which will see $300 million injected to increase production. U.S.-based startup KoBold Metals has also committed over $2 billion following its acquisition of the Dumbwa and Konkola West projects, further accelerating Zambia’s copper output ambitions. Other international players, including Mercuria and Patriot Lithium, have also entered the Zambian market via M&A deals, aiming to tap into the mineral-rich Central African Copperbelt.

     In Botswana, recent M&A deals aim to unlock the potential of the Kalahari Copper Belt, which stretches into Namibia. Mining firm BHP secured stakes in Cobre Limited in March 2025, gaining access to Tier 1 copper assets in Botswana. The company plans to invest $25 million in exploration, including seismic surveys and deep diamond drilling, to assess resource potential. Additionally, China’s MMG Limited (http://apo-opa.co/4jYVNIZ) has announced a $700 million investment to double output at the Khoemacau Mine after acquiring it from Canada’s Cuprous Capital in 2024.

    As Africa continues to attract global investment and deepen strategic partnerships, AMW 2025 will serve as a vital platform to connect international investors with high-value M&A opportunities, reinforcing Africa’s position as a critical player in the global copper supply chain.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Marriott International announces plans to add more than 50 properties and over 9,000 rooms to its Africa portfolio by the end of 2027

    From the Future Hospitality Summit Africa in Cape Town, South Africa, Marriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAR) today announced plans to expand its operations in Africa with the anticipated addition of over 50 properties and more than 9,000 rooms by the end of 2027.  The company’s growth strategy includes the expected entry into five markets – Cape Verde, Cote d’Ivoire, The Democratic Republic of Congo, Madagascar and Mauritania. The planned expansion aims to further strengthen the company’s footprint across the continent where its current operating portfolio encompasses nearly 150 properties and 26,000 rooms across 20 countries and 22 brands.

    “We are witnessing a transformation of Africa’s tourism sector driven by visionary government agendas, substantial infrastructure development, enhanced regional and international connectivity and diversified travel experiences, all of which are laying the foundation for a thriving hospitality sector,” said Jerome Briet, Chief Development Officer, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International. “With our renowned portfolio of brands, world-class distribution platform and award-winning travel programme, Marriott Bonvoy, we continue to drive robust expansion opportunities with owners and franchisees across Africa and remain committed to supporting the growth of its tourism sector.”

    Marriott’s planned expansion aims to enhance the strategic development of the company’s luxury, premium and select-service portfolio across key and emerging destinations in Africa. The company’s growth across the continent is expected to be largely driven by its select-service brands, including Protea Hotels by Marriott and Four Points by Sheraton, and a strong consumer demand for distinctive, high-quality hospitality experiences. Tanzania, Egypt, Morocco, Kenya and Nigeria are the highest growth markets for the company in the continent, making up more than half of the projects slated to open in the next two years. Conversions and adaptive reuse opportunities are also anticipated to continue to drive meaningful growth for the company, representing more than 30 percent of the anticipated African additions by the end of 2027.  The company is also seeing an increased appetite for branded residential projects across the continent.

    Karim Cheltout, Senior Vice President – Development, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International added, “Africa is home to emerging marketplaces that offer significant growth opportunities across major gateway cities, commercial centres, safari circuits and resort destinations. Through our diverse range of extraordinary brands, we are in a position to work with developers to offer high quality accommodations along with distinct and innovative travel experiences that resonate with today’s rapidly evolving consumer.”

    North and East Africa Fuel Expansion Plans for the Continent

    Marriott is witnessing strong growth momentum in the North and East Africa regions, which together account for more than 60 percent of the company’s planned additions in Africa by the end of 2027.  Egypt and Morocco are expected to lead the expansion for Marriott in North Africa. Plans in Egypt include the anticipated debut of Aloft Hotels in the continent, with the opening of Aloft Ghazala Bay situated in the North Coast of the country expected in 2027.  More than 50 percent of the company’s expected additions in Egypt by the end of 2027 are conversion or adaptive reuse projects. Expansion highlights for Morocco include the anticipated market debut of AC Hotels by Marriott with a scheduled opening in Casablanca in 2027.

    In East Africa, the company continues to see growth momentum with safari lodges and camps spurred by a growing appeal for adventure and outdoor travel. Following the successful opening of JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge in 2023, the company is slated to open six safari properties across the region by the end of 2027, including The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp (Kenya), and Mapito Safari Camp, Serengeti, Autograph Collection (Tanzania) – both of which are scheduled to open this year.

    Marriott’s portfolio in Tanzania is anticipated to more than double by the end of 2027 while in Kenya the company plans to open five properties including the debut of Courtyard by Marriott with two expected openings in Nairobi in 2027. Growth plans in Uganda include the country’s first Marriott Hotel and Marriott Executive Apartments with scheduled openings in Kampala by the end of this year.

    Demand for Premium and Select Accommodation Remains Strong in West Africa

    By the end of 2027, the company expects to add six properties in Nigeria, its largest growth market in the West Africa region. Plans include the introduction of Courtyard by Marriott in the country with anticipated openings in Abuja within the next two years, and the continued expansion of Protea Hotels by Marriott and Marriott Hotels.

    Marriott is also slated to enter three new markets in West Africa in the next two years. Four Points by Sheraton Sao Vicente Resort is anticipated to open this year, marking the company’s debut in Cape Verde. Marriott is also expected to enter Côte d’Ivoire in 2027, with an Autograph Collection Hotel located in Assinie-Mafia, and Mauritania with a Sheraton Hotel situated in Nouakchott, which is expected to open later this year.

    Growth across Southern and Central Africa Remains Steady

    The company’s largest market in Africa, South Africa, is expected to see an expansion of the Autograph Collection Hotels brand portfolio with the opening of Morea House in Cape Town this year, followed by the anticipated addition of a property within Kruger National Park in 2026.  Marriott also plans to enter The Democratic Republic of Congo by the end of this year with a Protea Hotel by Marriott and Four Points by Sheraton in Kinshasa. The company is also expected to make its debut in Madagascar with the opening of a Delta Hotels by Marriott this year and a Protea Hotel by Marriott anticipated in 2026 in Antananarivo. The company’s planned expansion also includes the anticipated debut of Le Méridien in Cameroon in 2027.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Bench.

    Note on Forward-Looking Statements:
    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of United States federal securities laws, including statements related to expected property openings, additions and portfolio growth; entry into new markets and brand debuts in certain markets; our expectations regarding growth opportunities; demand trends and expectations, including demand for certain offering types; and similar statements concerning anticipated future events and expectations that are not historical facts. We caution you that these statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to numerous evolving risks and uncertainties that we may not be able to accurately predict or assess, including the risk factors that we identify in our U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filings, including our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K or Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Any of these factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the expectations we express or imply in this press release. We make these forward-looking statements as of the date of this press release and undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise these statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Media contacts:
    Chandan Belani
    Senior Director of Communications
    MEA & Development PR, EMEA
    Marriott International
    Chanan.Belani@marriott.com

    Birgit Deibele
    Senior Director of Communications
    Sub-Saharan Africa
    Marriott International
    Birgit.Deibele@marriott.com

    Connect with us on:
    Facebook: (https://apo-opa.co/4n4mOxc)
    X: (https://apo-opa.co/4ebSpcr)
    Instagram: (https://apo-opa.co/43O8p0J)

    About Marriott International:
    Marriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of nearly 9,500 properties across more than 30 leading brands in 144 countries and territories. Marriott operates, franchises, and licenses hotel, residential, timeshare, and other lodging properties all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®, its highly awarded travel platform. For more information, please visit our website at www.Marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.MarriottNewsCenter.com. 

    Marriott encourages investors, the media, and others interested in the company to review and subscribe to the information Marriott posts on its investor relations website at www.Marriott.com/investor or Marriott’s news center website at www.MarriottNewsCenter.com, which may be material. The contents of these websites are not incorporated by reference into this press release or any report or document Marriott files with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, and any references to the websites are intended to be inactive textual references only.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “Active Citizens” will evaluate the venues of the “Teatralny Boulevard” festival

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The Active Citizen project has begun new vote, in which residents will evaluate the work of the sites of the International Open Festival “Theater Boulevard”Among them are the spaces on Pokrovsky, Tsvetnoy, Chistoprudny Boulevards and in the Polytechnic Museum Park.

    For the second year in a row, city streets and boulevards have become a venue for open-air performances by participants of the “Theater Boulevard”, which is taking place in the capital as part of a large-scale project “Summer in Moscow”This season will give residents and tourists even more vivid impressions: over 600 performances of various genres will be held at 12 venues – from classics to bold performances.

    From drama to circus performances

    All summer long, theatre companies from Russia, China, Mexico and other countries will delight guests with classical productions and surprise them with bold creative experiments. Thus, the fantasy space on Tsvetnoy Boulevard will immerse viewers in a carefree childhood. Here you can admire the skill of artists on stilts, laugh with talented clowns, and also watch performances with giant puppets or participate in immersive productions.

    Voters will also have to evaluate the beloved space of the amphitheater on Pokrovsky Boulevard. It has become a stage for dramatic productions, musicals and operettas. Here, viewers can meet foreign groups, Moscow and regional theaters, as well as actors and directors of theater and cinema.

    The space in the park of the Polytechnic Museum has become a new point of attraction for spectators. In the comfortable space of the amphitheater, student groups from leading creative universities of Russia, as well as Moscow and regional theaters, present their performances.

    The stage on Chistoprudny Boulevard differs from the stages on Pokrovsky Boulevard and in the Polytechnic Museum Park. According to Alina Pazhentseva, assistant stage producer, its main difference is the absence of an amphitheater and a chamber format. Puppet and solo show artists perform as close to the audience as possible, further immersing and involving guests in the creative process. In addition, lectures dedicated to the legends of Moscow theaters, meetings with theater and film stars, and other events are held here.

    More information about the events can be found on the festival website “Theater Boulevard” and the project page “Summer in Moscow”Many performances can be attended for free.

    The vote was prepared by the project “Active Citizen” together with the capital Department of Culture And By the Tourism CommitteeUsers with a full or standard account on the mos.ru portal can take part in it.

    Project “Active Citizen” has been operating since 2014. During this time, more than seven million people have joined it, and more than seven thousand votes have been held. Every month, 30 to 40 decisions made by Muscovites are implemented in the city. The project is being developed by the capital Department of Information Technology together with the State Institution “New Management Technologies”.

    The creation, development and operation of the e-government infrastructure, including the provision of mass socially significant services, as well as other services in electronic form, corresponds to the objectives of the national project “Data Economy and Digital Transformation of the State” and the regional project of the city of Moscow “Digital Public Administration”.

    “Book in the City”: from June 1, the capital will have places for reading, communication and creativity

    Project “Summer in Moscow” — the main event of the season. It brings together the most vibrant events of the capital. Every day, charity, cultural and sports events are held in all districts of the city, most of which are free. The Summer in Moscow project is being held for the second time, and this season will be more eventful: new, original and colorful festivals and events will be added to the traditional ones.

    Get the latest news quickly official telegram channel the city of Moscow.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/155366073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: 95 lawyers demand stronger NZ stand over Israel amid Middle East tensions

    Asia Pacific Report

    Ninety-five New Zealand lawyers — including nine king’s counsel — have signed a letter demanding Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, Foreign Minister Winston Peters and two other ministers urge the government to take a stronger stand against Israel’s “catastrophic” actions in Gaza.

    The letter has been sent amid rising tensions in the region, following Israel’s surprise attacks on Iran last Friday, and Iran’s retaliatory attacks.

    A statement by the Justice For Palestine advocacy group said the letter’s signatories represented all levels of seniority in the legal community, including senior barristers, law firm partners, legal academics, and in-house lawyers.

    The letter cited the 26 July 2024 joint statement by the prime ministers of Canada, Australia and New Zealand which acknowledged: “The situation in Gaza is catastrophic. The human suffering is unacceptable. It cannot continue.”

    “But it has continued,” said the letter.  “The plight of the civilian population in Gaza has significantly deteriorated, featuring steadily escalating levels of bombardment, forced displacement of civilians, blockades of aid and deliberate targeting of hospitals, aid workers and journalists.”

    The same month, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) had declared Israel’s continued presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory to be unlawful.

    Obligations under international law
    In September last year, New Zealand voted in favour of a UN General Assembly resolution calling on all UN member states to comply with their obligations under international law and take concrete steps to address Israel’s ongoing presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, said the Justice For Palestine statement.

    At the time, New Zealand had noted it expected Israel to take meaningful steps towards compliance with international law, including withdrawal from the Occupied Palestinian Territory. The letter stated that Israel had done nothing of the sort.

    Part of the lawyers’ letter appealing to the NZ government for a stronger stance over Israel. Image: J4P

    The letter points out that last month independent UN experts had demanded immediate international intervention to “end the violence or bear witness to the annihilation of the Palestinian population in Gaza.”

    UN experts have observed more than 52,535 deaths, of which 70 percent continue to be women and children, said the statement.

    The UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, Tom Fletcher, had called for a response “as humanitarians” urging “Humanity, the law and reason must prevail”.

    The Justice For Palestine letter urged the government to consider a stronger response, including:

    • condemning Israel’s unlawful presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory,
    • reviewing immediately all diplomatic and political and economic ties with Israel, and
    • imposing further sanctions after New Zealand had imposed sanctions on two extremist Israeli politicians.

    Rising concern over Israeli breaches
     One of the letter’s signatories, barrister Max Harris, said:

    “This letter reflects rising concern among the general community about Israel’s breaches of international law.

    “The Government has tried to highlight red lines for Israel, but these have been repeatedly crossed, and it’s time that the Government considers doing more, in line with international law,”

    Aedeen Boadita-Cormican, another barrister, who signed the letter, said: “The government could do more to follow through on how it has voted at the United Nations and what it has said internationally.”

    “This letter shows the depth of concern in the legal community about Israel’s actions,” she added.

    Article by AsiaPacificReport.nz

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: 95 lawyers demand stronger NZ stand over Israel amid Middle East tensions

    Asia Pacific Report

    Ninety-five New Zealand lawyers — including nine king’s counsel — have signed a letter demanding Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, Foreign Minister Winston Peters and two other ministers urge the government to take a stronger stand against Israel’s “catastrophic” actions in Gaza.

    The letter has been sent amid rising tensions in the region, following Israel’s surprise attacks on Iran last Friday, and Iran’s retaliatory attacks.

    A statement by the Justice For Palestine advocacy group said the letter’s signatories represented all levels of seniority in the legal community, including senior barristers, law firm partners, legal academics, and in-house lawyers.

    The letter cited the 26 July 2024 joint statement by the prime ministers of Canada, Australia and New Zealand which acknowledged: “The situation in Gaza is catastrophic. The human suffering is unacceptable. It cannot continue.”

    “But it has continued,” said the letter.  “The plight of the civilian population in Gaza has significantly deteriorated, featuring steadily escalating levels of bombardment, forced displacement of civilians, blockades of aid and deliberate targeting of hospitals, aid workers and journalists.”

    The same month, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) had declared Israel’s continued presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory to be unlawful.

    Obligations under international law
    In September last year, New Zealand voted in favour of a UN General Assembly resolution calling on all UN member states to comply with their obligations under international law and take concrete steps to address Israel’s ongoing presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, said the Justice For Palestine statement.

    At the time, New Zealand had noted it expected Israel to take meaningful steps towards compliance with international law, including withdrawal from the Occupied Palestinian Territory. The letter stated that Israel had done nothing of the sort.

    Part of the lawyers’ letter appealing to the NZ government for a stronger stance over Israel. Image: J4P

    The letter points out that last month independent UN experts had demanded immediate international intervention to “end the violence or bear witness to the annihilation of the Palestinian population in Gaza.”

    UN experts have observed more than 52,535 deaths, of which 70 percent continue to be women and children, said the statement.

    The UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, Tom Fletcher, had called for a response “as humanitarians” urging “Humanity, the law and reason must prevail”.

    The Justice For Palestine letter urged the government to consider a stronger response, including:

    • condemning Israel’s unlawful presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory,
    • reviewing immediately all diplomatic and political and economic ties with Israel, and
    • imposing further sanctions after New Zealand had imposed sanctions on two extremist Israeli politicians.

    Rising concern over Israeli breaches
     One of the letter’s signatories, barrister Max Harris, said:

    “This letter reflects rising concern among the general community about Israel’s breaches of international law.

    “The Government has tried to highlight red lines for Israel, but these have been repeatedly crossed, and it’s time that the Government considers doing more, in line with international law,”

    Aedeen Boadita-Cormican, another barrister, who signed the letter, said: “The government could do more to follow through on how it has voted at the United Nations and what it has said internationally.”

    “This letter shows the depth of concern in the legal community about Israel’s actions,” she added.

    Article by AsiaPacificReport.nz

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Getting sustainable and equitable power to the people – how’s the global energy transition going?

    Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)

    The Energy Transition Index is the World Economic Forum’s annual report on global efforts to get sustainable, secure and equitable energy to all. We hear from the Forum’s Espen Mehlum, head of energy transition intelligence, and speak to two experts on energy in Africa and Latin America.

    Guests:

    Clarissa Lins, Founding Partner at Catavento, Brazil
    Andrew Herscowitz, CEO of the Mission 300 (M300) Accelerator

    The World Economic Forum is the International Organization for Public-Private Cooperation. The Forum engages the foremost political, business, cultural and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry agendas. We believe that progress happens by bringing together people from all walks of life who have the drive and the influence to make positive change.

    World Economic Forum Website ► http://www.weforum.org/
    Facebook ► https://www.facebook.com/worldeconomicforum/
    YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/wef
    Instagram ► https://www.instagram.com/worldeconomicforum/ 
    Twitter ► https://twitter.com/wef
    LinkedIn ► https://www.linkedin.com/company/world-economic-forum
    TikTok ► https://www.tiktok.com/@worldeconomicforum
    Flipboard ► https://flipboard.com/@WEF

    #WorldEconomicForum

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EeePBeo0nwc

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Gay and bisexual men will soon be able to donate blood and plasma

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Yasmin Mowat, Clinical Project Manager, Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney

    AnnaStills/Getty Images

    Many gay and bisexual men have been excluded from donating blood and plasma (the liquid portion of blood) for decades because of rules developed during the HIV crisis in the 1980s.

    The Australian Red Cross’ blood donation arm, Lifeblood, has announced these restrictions will be lifted. This opens donation pathways for many gay and bisexual men, and other men who have sex with men.

    What’s changing for plasma donation?

    From July 14, Lifeblood will remove sexual activity-based restrictions for plasma donation for medicines made with plasma, except for those who’ve recently had sex with a partner known to have HIV or another blood-borne virus.

    This world-first “plasma pathway” policy will allow most people, including gay and bisexual men, to donate plasma immediately regardless of sexual activity, provided they meet other criteria.

    What’s changing for other blood donation?

    The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has approved a gender-neutral risk assessment for blood and platelet donations.

    Under this system, all donors, regardless of gender, will be asked if, in the past six months, they have had sex (excluding oral sex) with a new partner or more than one partner.

    If they answer “yes” to either question, they will be asked if they’ve had anal sex in the past three months. Those who say “yes” will be deferred from donating whole blood for six months, due to the higher risk of HIV transmission during anal sex and the time it takes for HIV to be detected in a test. But they will still be eligible to donate plasma.

    So gay and bisexual men in long-term, monogamous relationships will no longer need to abstain from sex for three months to donate whole blood.

    Why were past restrictions in place?

    In the 1980s, HIV transmission through blood transfusions prompted urgent public health responses. Australia, like many countries, introduced an indefinite deferral for men who have sex with men, the population most affected by HIV.

    This policy significantly reduced transmission of HIV via blood transfusions before HIV testing became available.

    Routine blood donation testing for HIV began in 1985, but initial tests could not detect HIV for up to three months after infection.

    As testing improved, the deferral was reduced – first to 12 months in 2000, then to three months since last sexual activity in 2021.

    Why the changes?

    Rates of new HIV infection have fallen substantially since the 1980s. In 2023, 722 new HIV cases were reported nationwide (2.7 per 100,000 population).

    Modern tests can now detect HIV within one week of exposure, dramatically reducing the risk of transfusion transmission.

    However, the blanket deferral still applied regardless of individual risk – such as if the men had only one partner. As a result, many low-risk men remained excluded.

    Why the different rules for blood and plasma?

    Whole blood is separated into red cells, plasma and platelets. This is the regular process of giving blood, where blood is drawn, then it goes through the testing process to check it’s safe.

    These components are mainly used for transfusion directly to patients without further processing.

    Whole blood is mainly used for transfusions.
    Peter Porrini/Shutterstock

    Plasma, the yellow liquid part, contains proteins used in treatments for immune disorders, severe burns and other conditions.

    During plasma donation, a machine separates the plasma (the yellow liquid part) from the red blood cells and other parts of blood. The machine keeps the plasma, and returns the red blood cells to the donor through the same needle.

    Plasma for plasma medicines, the blood product in most demand in Australia, is processed using extra techniques that kill viruses and bacteria, allowing for less-strict donation rules compared to whole blood.

    How many more people will become eligible under the new rules?

    A national survey we jointly conducted with Lifeblood found an estimated 57% of Australians, and 63% of Australian men, were eligible to donate blood. Among men who reported sex with men, eligibility was only 40%.

    Under the new plasma pathway, overall eligibility is projected to rise to 61%, and to 74% for gay and bisexual men – an increase of around 626,500 newly eligible plasma donors. This will include people taking HIV-PrEP (HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis), which protects against HIV infection.

    The impact of gender-neutral risk assessments on blood donation eligibility is less certain.

    How will people feel being asked about their sexual history?

    The same survey found most Australians supported being asked how many partners they have had and whether they’d had anal sex to see if they were eligible to donate. However, support varied across age, religion and country of birth.

    Understanding and responding to these differences will be important for community engagement and maintaining trust in the blood supply.

    Will this affect the safety of the blood supply?

    The gender-neutral questions aim to identify high-risk sexual activity, regardless of someone’s gender or sexual orientation. The questions still restrict anyone from donating who has recently had anal sex with multiple or new sexual partners.

    Similar policies have been adopted in countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, and the Netherlands, with no evidence of increased risk to the blood supply.

    What happens next?

    From July 14, the rules for plasma donation will change, allowing plasma donation regardless of sexual activity.

    The TGA’s approval of gender-neutral blood assessments has only just been granted. Lifeblood will now need to update systems, seek government approvals, train staff and inform the public before this change can be rolled out.

    Ongoing evaluation will be essential to monitor the impact on donor numbers, safety and public perception, and to ensure blood donation policies are evidence-based and equitable.

    Yasmin Mowat recieves funding from a National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Partnership Grant, implemented with Lifeblood.

    Bridget Haire has received funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC).

    Skye McGregor receives funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC).

    – ref. Gay and bisexual men will soon be able to donate blood and plasma – https://theconversation.com/gay-and-bisexual-men-will-soon-be-able-to-donate-blood-and-plasma-259136

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Cleaver, Harshbarger Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Expand Paramedicine Services Nationwide

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II (5th District Missouri)

    (Washington, D.C.) – U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) and Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) have introduced bipartisan legislation to strengthen and expand paramedicine services in rural communities across the country. The Community Paramedicine Act of 2025 (CPA) would expand the scope of rural health grants to include mobile integrated health and community paramedicine grantees, enabling Americans in rural communities to receive centralized, mobile, and preventative care through local paramedics, an increasingly popular initiative in healthcare known as Community Paramedicine.

    “Across Missouri, rural communities are struggling to access quality healthcare that is both affordable and convenient, with far too many Missourians having to travel long distances to get the care they need, which can often be as costly as it is frustrating for families,” said Congressman Cleaver. “This challenge requires innovative solutions that help bring physicians directly to the people—and that’s precisely what community paramedicine seeks to do. I’m proud to introduce the Community Paramedicine Act with Congresswoman Harshbarger to expand this popular and growing practice to more communities, so Missouri families can get the care they deserve at lower costs and right at their door.”

    “Mobile Integrated Healthcare-Community Paramedicine is a smart, innovative solution that delivers the right care at the right time — especially for patients with chronic conditions or in rural and underserved areas,” said Rep. Harshbarger. “As co-chair of the Congressional Bipartisan Rural Health Caucus, I’m proud to help introduce this budget-neutral bill, which will empower our emergency medical services professionals and firefighters to build these community programs for reducing unnecessary emergency room visits, improving health outcomes, and potentially saving billions in healthcare costs.”

    “Early medical intervention can save the health care system billions by addressing time-critical issues and preventing costly emergency care and hospitalizations,” said Chief Chris Way, President of the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians. “Mobile Integrated Healthcare-Community Paramedicine (MIH-CP) is an innovative way for EMTs and Paramedics to provide patient-centered mobile care outside the hospital to lower health care costs and improve patient outcomes. MIH-CP helps to address the gaps in patient care and prevent acute exacerbations of illness, instead of waiting to provide medical care until patients need 911 response. NAEMT applauds Representative Diana Harshberger (R-TN) and Representative Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO) for introducing the Community Paramedicine Act, which would provide funding opportunities for EMS agencies across the nation to provide evidence-based, cost-saving, and innovative ways for EMTs and Paramedics to provide patient-centered care outside of the hospital and improve patients’ health status, in collaboration with other health care professionals and providers. We ask Congress to pass this bill and help create, maintain, and sustain MIH-CP programs across our country.”

    For some patients – including those who are uninsured, underinsured, homebound, medically fragile, or live in rural areas – their access to care relies primarily on 9-1-1, EMTs, and the hospital emergency room. Over 57 million Americans must travel a lengthy distance to reach their nearest physician, with rural Americans experiencing the most travel time, as only 11% of physicians work in rural settings. With a demand for physician services that outpaces available appointments, many residents are currently left medically underserved. 

    Community Paramedicine combats this by improving care accessibility for underserved communities and bringing health care to Americans’ doorsteps. Community Paramedicine programs can provide check-ups, health education, preventative care, and transportation. These services improve patient access to diagnostic testing, specialized service referrals, and transportation to medical appointments. 

    Moreover, studies have shown that Community Paramedicine programs can save thousands of dollars per year per patient by helping people lead healthier lives and decreasing healthcare emergencies. For example, Community Paramedicine visits can help a person living with heart failure, asthma, COPD, or diabetes avoid acute emergencies. A study in eastern Massachusetts showed that their Community Paramedicine model saved over $1,900 per case and nearly $6 million in a year.

    The Community Paramedicine Act of 2025 would expand the scope of rural health grants authorized under Sec. 330A of the Public Health Services Act to include mobile integrated health and community paramedicine grantees. As of now, Rural Health Care Services Outreach Grants, Rural Health Network Development Grants, and Small Health Care Provider Quality Improvement Grants share the authorization under Sec. 330A. None of these, however, address community paramedicine. The Community Paramedicine Act of 2025 would add a fourth grant program to the existing authorization. The legislation budget neutral and does not authorize any new spending.

    The Community Paramedicine Act of 2025 is endorsed by the American Ambulance Association (AAA), National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT), International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), International Association of Fire Chiefs, National Rural Health Association, Mid-America Regional Council Emergency Rescue (MERCER), Missouri Ambulance Association, Missouri Emergency Medical Services Association, Kansas Emergency Medical Services Association, Tennessee Association of EMS Providers.

    Official text of the Community Paramedicine Act of 2025 is available here.

    Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee’s Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Israel-Iran war ‘more dangerous than we imagine’, says Middle East Eye editor

    Pacific Media Watch

    The Big Picture Podcast host, New Zealand-Egyptian journalist and author Mohamed Hassan, interviews Middle East Eye editor-in-chief David Hearst about the rapidly unfolding war between Israel and Iran, why the West supports it, and what it threatens to unleash on the global order.

    What does Israel really want to achieve, what options does Iran have to deescalate, and will the United States stop the war, or join it as is being hinted?

    Hearst says the war is “more dangerous than we imagine” and notes that while most Western leadership still backs Israel, there has been a strong shift in world public opinion against Tel Aviv.

    He says Israel has lost most of the world’s support, most of the Global South, most African states, Brazil, South Africa, China and Russia.

    Hearst says the world is witnessing the “cynical tailend of the colonial era” among Western states.


    The era of peace is over.             Video: Middle East Eye

    Iran ‘unlikely to surrender’
    Ali Vaez, the Iran project director at the International Crisis Group, says Iran is unlikely to “surrender to American terms” and that there is a risk the war on Iran could “bring the entire region down”.

    Vaez told Al Jazeera in an interview that US President Donald Trump “provided the green light for Israel to attack Iran” just two days before the president’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, was due to meet with the Iranians in the Oman capital of Muscat.

    Imagine viewing, from the Iranian perspective, Trump giving the go-ahead for the attack while at the same time saying that diplomacy with Tehran was still ongoing, Vaez said.

    Now Trump “is asking for Iranian surrender” on his Truth Social platform, he said.

    “I think the only thing that is more dangerous than suffering from Israeli and American bombs is actually surrendering to American terms,” Vaez said.

    “Because if Iran surrenders on the nuclear issue and on the demands of President Trump, there is no end to the slippery slope, which would eventually result in regime collapse and capitulation anyway.”

    Most Americans oppose US involvement
    Meanwhile, a new survey has reported that most Americans oppose US military involvement in the conflict.

    The survey by YouGov showed that some 60 percent of Americans surveyed thought the US military should not get involved in the ongoing hostilities between Israel and Iran.

    Only 16 percent favoured US involvement, while 24 percent said they were not sure.

    Among the Democrats, those who opposed US intervention were at 65 percent, and among the Republicans, it was 53 percent. Some 61 percent of independents opposed the move.

    The survey also showed that half of Americans viewed Iran as an enemy of the US, while 25 percent said it was “unfriendly”.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Israel-Iran war ‘more dangerous than we imagine’, says Middle East Eye editor

    Pacific Media Watch

    The Big Picture Podcast host, New Zealand-Egyptian journalist and author Mohamed Hassan, interviews Middle East Eye editor-in-chief David Hearst about the rapidly unfolding war between Israel and Iran, why the West supports it, and what it threatens to unleash on the global order.

    What does Israel really want to achieve, what options does Iran have to deescalate, and will the United States stop the war, or join it as is being hinted?

    Hearst says the war is “more dangerous than we imagine” and notes that while most Western leadership still backs Israel, there has been a strong shift in world public opinion against Tel Aviv.

    He says Israel has lost most of the world’s support, most of the Global South, most African states, Brazil, South Africa, China and Russia.

    Hearst says the world is witnessing the “cynical tailend of the colonial era” among Western states.


    The era of peace is over.             Video: Middle East Eye

    Iran ‘unlikely to surrender’
    Ali Vaez, the Iran project director at the International Crisis Group, says Iran is unlikely to “surrender to American terms” and that there is a risk the war on Iran could “bring the entire region down”.

    Vaez told Al Jazeera in an interview that US President Donald Trump “provided the green light for Israel to attack Iran” just two days before the president’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, was due to meet with the Iranians in the Oman capital of Muscat.

    Imagine viewing, from the Iranian perspective, Trump giving the go-ahead for the attack while at the same time saying that diplomacy with Tehran was still ongoing, Vaez said.

    Now Trump “is asking for Iranian surrender” on his Truth Social platform, he said.

    “I think the only thing that is more dangerous than suffering from Israeli and American bombs is actually surrendering to American terms,” Vaez said.

    “Because if Iran surrenders on the nuclear issue and on the demands of President Trump, there is no end to the slippery slope, which would eventually result in regime collapse and capitulation anyway.”

    Most Americans oppose US involvement
    Meanwhile, a new survey has reported that most Americans oppose US military involvement in the conflict.

    The survey by YouGov showed that some 60 percent of Americans surveyed thought the US military should not get involved in the ongoing hostilities between Israel and Iran.

    Only 16 percent favoured US involvement, while 24 percent said they were not sure.

    Among the Democrats, those who opposed US intervention were at 65 percent, and among the Republicans, it was 53 percent. Some 61 percent of independents opposed the move.

    The survey also showed that half of Americans viewed Iran as an enemy of the US, while 25 percent said it was “unfriendly”.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • PM Modi takes part in G7 outreach on energy security; calls for clean energy access, AI oversight, Global South priorities

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday participated in the outreach session on energy security at the 51st G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Canada, where he called for universal access to clean energy, responsible use of artificial intelligence, and greater attention to the needs of the Global South.

    In a post on X, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted key takeaways from the Prime Minister’s address.

    PM Modi emphasized that affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy remains India’s top priority in an increasingly technology-driven world.

    “In the last century, we saw competition for energy. In this century, we will have to cooperate for technology. Moving forward on the fundamental principles of availability, accessibility, affordability, acceptability, India has chosen the path of inclusive development” PM Modi said.

    He underscored India’s clean energy initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), and the Global Biofuels Alliance.

    PM Modi noted that India has already fulfilled its Paris climate commitments ahead of schedule and is rapidly advancing toward its Net Zero target by 2070.

    “Currently, renewable energy accounts for around 50 percent of our total installed capacity,” he added.

    PM Modi also reiterated India’s commitment to representing the concerns of the Global South on the world stage.

    “Unfortunately, the Global South countries suffer the most from uncertainty and conflicts. They are the first to be hit by crises related to food, fuel, fertilizer, and finance. India considers it its responsibility to bring the priorities and concerns of the Global South to the world stage,” he said.

    Highlighting India’s success in democratizing technology through Digital Public Infrastructure, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of meaningful and high-quality data as the foundation for inclusive and responsible AI.

    He called for global cooperation to build governance frameworks around artificial intelligence that both encourage innovation and address emerging risks.

    “AI itself is an energy-intensive technology. If there is any way to sustainably fulfill the energy requirements of a technology-driven society, it is through renewable energy,” PM Modi said.

    Addressing AI risks, PM Modi warned of the growing threat of deepfakes, urging the need for safeguards.

    “Deep fake is a cause of great concern. Watermarking or clear declaration should be mandatory for AI-generated content,” he said.

    On the issue of terrorism, the Prime Minister strongly condemned the recent Pahalgam terror attack, describing it as an attack on humanity and democratic values.

    “There should be no place for double standards on terrorism,” he said, urging the global community to adopt a consistent and firm stance against terror networks.

    “For global peace and prosperity, our thought and policy must be clear — if any country supports terrorism, it will have to pay the price for it. On one hand, we are quick to impose all kinds of sanctions based on our own preferences. On the other hand, countries that openly support terrorism are rewarded,” PM Modi added. 

  • MIL-OSI: BW Energy: Company presentation Fearnley Securities Africa Focused E&P seminar  

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Company presentation Fearnley Securities Africa Focused E&P seminar  

    BW Energy is today presenting at the Fearnley Securities Africa Focused E&P seminar in Madrid, Spain. Please see the attached presentation. 

    For further information, please contact: 
     
    Brice Morlot, CFO BW Energy
    +33.7.81.11.41.16
    ir@bwenergy.no

    ABOUT BW ENERGY: 

    BW Energy is a growth E&P company with a differentiated strategy targeting proven offshore oil and gas reservoirs through low risk phased developments. The Company has access to existing production facilities to reduce time to first oil and cashflow with lower investments than traditional offshore developments. The Company’s assets are 73.5% of the producing Dussafu Marine licence offshore Gabon, 100% interest in the Golfinho and Camarupim fields, a 76.5% interest in the BM-ES-23 block, a 95% interest in the Maromba field in Brazil, a 95% interest in the Kudu field in Namibia, all operated by BW Energy. In addition, BW Energy holds approximately 6.6% of the common shares in Reconnaissance Energy Africa Ltd. and a 20% non-operating interest in the onshore Petroleum Exploration License 73 (“PEL 73”) in Namibia. Total net 2P+2C reserves and resources were 599 million barrels of oil equivalent at the start of 2025. 

    This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act 

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BW Energy: Company presentation Fearnley Securities Africa Focused E&P seminar  

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Company presentation Fearnley Securities Africa Focused E&P seminar  

    BW Energy is today presenting at the Fearnley Securities Africa Focused E&P seminar in Madrid, Spain. Please see the attached presentation. 

    For further information, please contact: 
     
    Brice Morlot, CFO BW Energy
    +33.7.81.11.41.16
    ir@bwenergy.no

    ABOUT BW ENERGY: 

    BW Energy is a growth E&P company with a differentiated strategy targeting proven offshore oil and gas reservoirs through low risk phased developments. The Company has access to existing production facilities to reduce time to first oil and cashflow with lower investments than traditional offshore developments. The Company’s assets are 73.5% of the producing Dussafu Marine licence offshore Gabon, 100% interest in the Golfinho and Camarupim fields, a 76.5% interest in the BM-ES-23 block, a 95% interest in the Maromba field in Brazil, a 95% interest in the Kudu field in Namibia, all operated by BW Energy. In addition, BW Energy holds approximately 6.6% of the common shares in Reconnaissance Energy Africa Ltd. and a 20% non-operating interest in the onshore Petroleum Exploration License 73 (“PEL 73”) in Namibia. Total net 2P+2C reserves and resources were 599 million barrels of oil equivalent at the start of 2025. 

    This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act 

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BW Energy: Company presentation Fearnley Securities Africa Focused E&P seminar  

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Company presentation Fearnley Securities Africa Focused E&P seminar  

    BW Energy is today presenting at the Fearnley Securities Africa Focused E&P seminar in Madrid, Spain. Please see the attached presentation. 

    For further information, please contact: 
     
    Brice Morlot, CFO BW Energy
    +33.7.81.11.41.16
    ir@bwenergy.no

    ABOUT BW ENERGY: 

    BW Energy is a growth E&P company with a differentiated strategy targeting proven offshore oil and gas reservoirs through low risk phased developments. The Company has access to existing production facilities to reduce time to first oil and cashflow with lower investments than traditional offshore developments. The Company’s assets are 73.5% of the producing Dussafu Marine licence offshore Gabon, 100% interest in the Golfinho and Camarupim fields, a 76.5% interest in the BM-ES-23 block, a 95% interest in the Maromba field in Brazil, a 95% interest in the Kudu field in Namibia, all operated by BW Energy. In addition, BW Energy holds approximately 6.6% of the common shares in Reconnaissance Energy Africa Ltd. and a 20% non-operating interest in the onshore Petroleum Exploration License 73 (“PEL 73”) in Namibia. Total net 2P+2C reserves and resources were 599 million barrels of oil equivalent at the start of 2025. 

    This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act 

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BW Energy: Company presentation Fearnley Securities Africa Focused E&P seminar  

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Company presentation Fearnley Securities Africa Focused E&P seminar  

    BW Energy is today presenting at the Fearnley Securities Africa Focused E&P seminar in Madrid, Spain. Please see the attached presentation. 

    For further information, please contact: 
     
    Brice Morlot, CFO BW Energy
    +33.7.81.11.41.16
    ir@bwenergy.no

    ABOUT BW ENERGY: 

    BW Energy is a growth E&P company with a differentiated strategy targeting proven offshore oil and gas reservoirs through low risk phased developments. The Company has access to existing production facilities to reduce time to first oil and cashflow with lower investments than traditional offshore developments. The Company’s assets are 73.5% of the producing Dussafu Marine licence offshore Gabon, 100% interest in the Golfinho and Camarupim fields, a 76.5% interest in the BM-ES-23 block, a 95% interest in the Maromba field in Brazil, a 95% interest in the Kudu field in Namibia, all operated by BW Energy. In addition, BW Energy holds approximately 6.6% of the common shares in Reconnaissance Energy Africa Ltd. and a 20% non-operating interest in the onshore Petroleum Exploration License 73 (“PEL 73”) in Namibia. Total net 2P+2C reserves and resources were 599 million barrels of oil equivalent at the start of 2025. 

    This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act 

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • Trump calls for Iran’s ‘unconditional surrender’ as Israel-Iran air war enters sixth day

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Iran and Israel launched new missile strikes at each other on Wednesday as the air war between the two longtime enemies entered a sixth day despite a call from U.S. President Donald Trump for Tehran’s unconditional surrender.

    The Israeli military said two barrages of Iranian missiles were launched toward Israel in the first two hours of Wednesday morning. Explosions were heard over Tel Aviv.

    Israel told residents in a southwestern area of Tehran to evacuate so its air force could strike Iranian military installations. Iranian news websites said Israel was attacking a university linked to Iran’s Revolutionary Guards in the east of the capital.

    Iranian news websites said Israel was also attacking a university linked to Iran’s Revolutionary Guards in the country’s east, and the Khojir ballistic missile facility near Tehran, which was also targeted by Israeli airstrikes last October.

    The U.S. Office of the Director of National Intelligence says Iran is armed with the largest number of ballistic missiles in the Middle East. Iran has said its ballistic missiles are an important deterrent and retaliatory force against the U.S., Israel and other potential regional targets.

    Trump warned on social media on Tuesday that U.S. patience was wearing thin. While he said there was no intention to kill Iran’s leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei “for now,” his comments suggested a more aggressive stance toward Iran as he weighs whether to deepen U.S. involvement.

    “We know exactly where the so-called ‘Supreme Leader’ is hiding,” he wrote on Truth Social. “We are not going to take him out (kill!), at least not for now … Our patience is wearing thin.”

    Three minutes later Trump posted, “UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER!”

    Trump’s sometimes contradictory and cryptic messaging about the conflict between close U.S. ally Israel and longtime foe Iran has deepened the uncertainty surrounding the crisis. His public comments have ranged from military threats to diplomatic overtures, not uncommon for a president known for an often erratic approach to foreign policy.

    A source familiar with internal discussions said Trump and his team are considering a number of options, including joining Israel on strikes against Iranian nuclear sites.

    A White House official said Trump spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu by phone on Tuesday.

    Trump also met for 90 minutes with his National Security Council on Tuesday afternoon to discuss the conflict, a White House official said. Details were not immediately available.

    The U.S. is deploying more fighter aircraft to the Middle East and extending the deployment of other warplanes, three U.S. officials told Reuters. The U.S. has so far only taken indirect actions in the current conflict with Iran, including helping to shoot down missiles fired toward Israel.

    A source with access to U.S. intelligence reports said Iran has moved some ballistic missile launchers, but it is difficult to determine if they were targeting U.S. forces or Israel.

    However, Britain’s leader Keir Starmer, speaking at the Group of Seven nations summit in Canada that Trump left early, said there was no indication the U.S. was about to enter the conflict.

    REGIONAL INFLUENCE WEAKENS

    Khamenei’s main military and security advisers have been killed by Israeli strikes, hollowing out his inner circle and raising the risk of strategic errors, according to five people familiar with his decision-making process.

    With Iranian leaders suffering their most dangerous security breach since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, the country’s cybersecurity command banned officials from using communications devices and mobile phones, Fars news agency reported.

    Israel launched a “massive cyber war” against Iran’s digital infrastructure, Iranian media reported.

    Ever since Iran-backed Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, and triggered the Gaza war, Khamenei’s regional influence has waned as Israel has pounded Iran’s proxies – from Hamas in Gaza to Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen and militias in Iraq. Iran’s close ally, Syria’s autocratic president Bashar al-Assad, has been ousted.

    Israel launched its air war, its largest ever on Iran, on Friday after saying it had concluded the Islamic Republic was on the verge of developing a nuclear weapon.

    Iran denies seeking nuclear weapons and has pointed to its right to nuclear technology for peaceful purposes, including enrichment, as a party to the international Non-Proliferation Treaty.

    Israel, which is not a party to the NPT, is the only country in the Middle East believed to have nuclear weapons. Israel does not deny or confirm that.

    Netanyahu has stressed that he will not back down until Iran’s nuclear development is disabled, while Trump says the Israeli assault could end if Iran agrees to strict curbs on enrichment.

    Before Israel’s attack began, the 35-nation board of governors of the U.N. nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency, declared Iran in breach of its non-proliferation obligations for the first time in almost 20 years.

    The IAEA said on Tuesday an Israeli strike directly hit the underground enrichment halls at the Natanz facility.

    Israel says it now has control of Iranian airspace and intends to escalate the campaign in coming days.

    But Israel will struggle to deal a knock-out blow to deeply buried nuclear sites like Fordow, which is dug beneath a mountain, without the U.S. joining the attack.

    Iranian officials have reported 224 deaths, mostly civilians, while Israel said 24 civilians had been killed. Residents of both countries have been evacuated or fled.

    Global oil markets are on high alert following strikes on sites including the world’s biggest gas field, South Pars, shared by Iran and Qatar.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoyer Tours YMCA Camp Letts, Touts Federal Investments in Maryland

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steny H Hoyer (MD-05)

    EDGEWATER, MD — Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) recently toured the YMCA Camp Letts to hear directly from local leaders about the critical infrastructure needs of the campsite and how they serve Maryland youth. Congressman Hoyer has long championed improvements to the YMCA’s water infrastructure as it continues to improve health outcomes for Maryland’s children and families.

    “Since I came to Congress, one of my top priorities has been to ensure Maryland families have access to clean waters and recreational opportunities,” Congressman Hoyer said. “The good people of YMCA Camp Letts have helped youth develop new skills and a sense of self-confidence that will serve them down the line in good-paying jobs and fulfilling careers. As House Republicans and Donald Trump continue to cut vital programs and services in Maryland, I will continue to help YMCA Camp Letts serve its mission and ensure Maryland families have access to healthy air and clean water.”

    Founded in 1906, YMCA Camp Letts is the area’s oldest residential camp. Since its founding, YMCA Camp Letts has served hundreds of thousands of children and their families. As part of the 2026 Fiscal Year Government Funding Bill, Congressman Hoyer is working to secure $1 million in Community Project Funding for the YMCA to improve HVAC systems, plumbing, and more. Congressman Hoyer solicited requests on his website and submitted 15 projects to the House Appropriations Committee.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: LaMalfa Recognizes Service Academy Appointments from Northern California

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Doug LaMalfa 1st District of California

    Washington, D.C.—Congressman Doug LaMalfa (R-Richvale) announced the appointment of five students selected to attend one of America’s military academies. The service academy appointees from California’s First District are as follows: 

    Nathaniel Brockhoff  – Plumas Lake
    U.S. Naval Academy
    Josiah McCormick – Redding 
    U.S. Air Force Academy 
    Lily Miller – Yuba City
    U.S. Air Force Academy
    Caden Stickney – Chico
    U.S. Air Force Academy 
    Alexander Willingham – Chico
    U.S. Air Force Academy

    Congressman LaMalfa based his nominations on the recommendations of his Military Academy Nomination Selection Committee, which is responsible for reviewing their files, interviewing the applicants, and recommending a slate of nominees. 

    “Being appointed to one of our nation’s Service Academies is a tremendous achievement and a clear reflection of these students’ hard work, character, and dedication to serving our country,” said Rep. LaMalfa. “After a competitive process, they’ve earned the chance to receive a world-class education while preparing to lead in our armed forces. I’m pleased to see such outstanding young people from Northern California take this next step, and I have no doubt they’ll represent our region and our nation well in the years ahead.” 

    From Left to Right: Josiah McCormick , Alexander Willingham , Lily Miller, Caden Stickney

    Any student with a strong desire to serve our nation as an officer in the United States Armed Forces is invited to contact Congressman LaMalfa in the spring of their junior year. Please visit his website www.lamalfa.house.gov for his nomination application and instructions. You may also call his Chico District office and speak with his U.S. Service Academy Advisor at (530) 343-1000.

    Congressman Doug LaMalfa is Chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus and a lifelong farmer representing California’s First Congressional District, including Butte, Colusa, Glenn, Lassen, Modoc, Shasta, Siskiyou, Sutter, Tehama and Yuba Counties.

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    MIL OSI USA News –