NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI Russia: GUU specialists at MAEF-2025 developed recommendations for balanced socio-economic development of Russia

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    On June 5, 2025, the Moscow Academic Economic Forum (MAEF-2025) ended, part of the working program of which was held at the State University of Management.

    This year, the Moscow Academic Economic Forum was dedicated to the 260th anniversary of the founding of the Free Economic Society of Russia and was devoted to the topic “Russia – 2025: the trajectory of dynamic balanced socio-economic development”. MAEF brought together more than 17.5 thousand specialists from 32 countries, including China, India, Canada, Cuba, Germany, Greece, South Africa, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan and Georgia.

    At the ceremonial final plenary session of the MAEF, Vladimir Stroyev, Rector of the State University of Management, spoke: “We are grateful to the Free Economic Society of Russia for the trust to hold part of the forum’s working program at our university. The conference was devoted to discussing issues related to the socio-economic development of Russia. All events of the Free Economic Society are of great interest to the teaching, scientific and student community at our university, so we are glad to be part of this forum today. I hope that we will continue our cooperation and do a lot of useful things for the benefit of Russia and its economy.”

    According to the President of the Free Economic Society of Russia Sergey Bodrunov, the strong regional component has become the hallmark of the MAEF. This year, in anticipation of the central events of the forum, work was carried out at 115 regional sites, which were formed on the basis of the leading universities and research centers of the country, divisions and institutions of the Russian Academy of Sciences, and regional organizations of the VEO of Russia.

    The plenary session of the MAEF was held on June 4 at the Russian Academy of Sciences, and plenary conferences on June 5 were hosted by 13 sites of leading universities and research centers. The plenary conference on the topic of “Institutes for Balanced Socioeconomic Development of Russia” was held at the State University of Management.

    The conference participants discussed a wide range of issues aimed at achieving balanced socio-economic development: the formation of new development institutions, strategic planning, human capital, interdepartmental cooperation, digital technologies and scientific and educational clusters.

    The following key recommendations were developed as a result of the conference:

    Coordination of development institutions. It was proposed to work out the issue of creating a single coordination mechanism for coordinating the actions of development institutions, aimed at implementing technological and industrial sovereignty in the context of structural transformation of the economy. Solving the problem of personnel shortage. The conference participants noted the paramount importance of the problem of systemic personnel shortage as the main limitation for achieving the goals of economic policy. It was proposed to strengthen interdepartmental and interlevel formats of labor force planning over a 5-15 year horizon, including advanced training of specialists for priority projects. Moreover, the State University of Management is one of the ambassadors of project-based learning. Transition to systemic measures of economic policy. Recognize the need to transition from targeted to systemic measures of economic policy aimed at long-term sustainability and increasing domestic demand for scientific, engineering and production competencies. Formation of a national model of integrated strategic planning. Conference participants expressed support for the idea of creating a national model of integrated strategic planning, which will include monitoring of resource, institutional and demographic constraints, as well as mechanisms for compensating for them through appropriate institutional and financial instruments.

    Also, within the framework of MAEF, a youth conference was held, following which GUU student Ekaterina Glyzina (IOM, 2nd year) received a 1st degree diploma in the section “New solutions for the digital age: from theory to practice”.

    We congratulate Ekaterina on her diploma, and our entire university on the successful holding of this important event.

    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 Tornado Watch 383

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL3

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 383
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    605 AM CDT Sat Jun 7 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Central and Northern Arkansas

    * Effective this Saturday morning from 605 AM until NOON CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A couple tornadoes possible
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph likely
    Isolated large hail events to 1 inch in diameter possible

    SUMMARY…A line of intense thunderstorms over northwest Arkansas
    and eastern Oklahoma will track eastward through the morning across
    the watch area. Damaging winds along the leading edge of the storms
    is the primary concern, although occasional tornadoes are also a
    possibility.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 65 statute miles
    north and south of a line from 50 miles west northwest of
    Russellville AR to 40 miles east southeast of Batesville AR. For a
    complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline
    update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU3).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
    tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
    area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
    threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
    and possible warnings.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 381…WW 382…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 1 inch. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
    storm motion vector 28035.

    …Hart

    SEL3

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 383
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    605 AM CDT Sat Jun 7 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Central and Northern Arkansas

    * Effective this Saturday morning from 605 AM until NOON CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A couple tornadoes possible
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph likely
    Isolated large hail events to 1 inch in diameter possible

    SUMMARY…A line of intense thunderstorms over northwest Arkansas
    and eastern Oklahoma will track eastward through the morning across
    the watch area. Damaging winds along the leading edge of the storms
    is the primary concern, although occasional tornadoes are also a
    possibility.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 65 statute miles
    north and south of a line from 50 miles west northwest of
    Russellville AR to 40 miles east southeast of Batesville AR. For a
    complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline
    update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU3).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
    tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
    area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
    threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
    and possible warnings.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 381…WW 382…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 1 inch. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
    storm motion vector 28035.

    …Hart

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW3
    WW 383 TORNADO AR 071105Z – 071700Z
    AXIS..65 STATUTE MILES NORTH AND SOUTH OF LINE..
    50WNW RUE/RUSSELLVILLE AR/ – 40ESE BVX/BATESVILLE AR/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 55NM N/S /20ENE FSM – 36S ARG/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..1 INCH. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 28035.

    LAT…LON 36469391 36459099 34579099 34589391

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU3.

    Watch 383 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Mod (30%)

    Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes

    Low (10%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    Mod (60%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Low (20%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Mod (30%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Low (20%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (80%)

    For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Walz Orders Flags at Half-Staff to Honor Minnesota Firefighter Andrew Karels

    Source: US State of Minnesota

    Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota from sunrise on Saturday, June 7, 2025, to sunset on Monday, June 9, 2025, in honor and remembrance of Amboy Fire Department firefighter Andrew Karels. Firefighter Karels, who served as the Amboy Fire Department’s medical officer, died on June 2, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: ATF Participates in Arms Trafficking and Explosives Roundtable Between Mexico and the United States

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

    On June 5 and 6, 2025, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives officials participated in a roundtable co-hosted by the State Department Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs and the Secretaría de Seguridad y Protección Ciudadana (Secretariat of Security and Civilian Protection). The roundtable took place in Mexico City and brought over 100 Government of Mexico officials together with U.S. law enforcement components from across the government to discuss arms trafficking trends and best practices in curbing arms trafficking.

    ATF was joined by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Homeland Security Investigations, and the U.S. Marshals Service in meetings with public security secretaries and attorneys general from most Mexican states, along with federal government representatives from across the Mexican government. Sessions included presentations on seizing and storing illegal firearms, arms and explosive trafficking trends, and investigative case studies where eTrace and bilateral information sharing led to successful outcomes. Additionally, there were discussions of new bilateral projects to curb arms trafficking, which include the sharing of ballistic information linked to crimes between the U.S. and Mexico border states, and a data exploitation lab, where weaponized drones will be leveraged for the arms trafficking vetted unit.

    “ATF’s partnerships with both our international and domestic law enforcement counterparts are critical when it comes to stopping the illegal flow of weapons across our southern border,” ATF Acting Director Daniel Driscoll said. “ATF will continue to work with our partners to stop the flow of dangerous weapons to Mexican cartels.”

    Earlier this week, ATF also held a join press conference with CBP and HSI in Laredo, Texas. During this event, speakers highlighted interagency efforts regarding interdictions of southbound firearms. Likewise, the event underscored ATF’s commitment to stemming the flow of illegal firearms across the southern border, and the enhanced consequences for weapons smuggling given the designation of major Mexican-based cartels as foreign terrorist organizations.

    “ATF works with law enforcement agencies in more than 50 countries to combat illegal firearms trafficking worldwide and identify threats before they reach America’s borders,” said ATF Deputy Assistant Director Shawn Morrow, of the Office of Intelligence Operations. “This roundtable is only one example of how our attachés across the globe work with foreign governments to dismantle criminal organizations and identify emerging threats. This work, especially in Mexico, is critical to keeping illegal firearms out of the hands of violent groups.”

    ATF is the federal law enforcement agency responsible for regulating the firearm industry and enforcing laws related to firearms and violent crime. For more information, visit atf.gov or follow @ATFHQ on X.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: A study conference on the Spanish priest Juan Bautista Vives: He contributed to the creation of the “Collegio de Propaganda Fide”

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    archivalencia.org

    Rome (Agenzia Fides) – Juan Bautista Vives, together with the Lucca-born priest Giovanni Leonardi and the Jesuit Martin de Funes, contributed to the creation of the “Collegio de Propaganda Fide,” which was founded in 1627 by Pope Urbano VIII with the bull “Immortalis Dei Filius,” from whom it also received the name “Collegio Urbano.” Juan Bautista Vives, a native of Valencia, actively collaborated with Popes Gregory XV and Urbano VIII and was a member of the “Sacred Congregation de Propaganda Fide,” the Dicastery of the Holy See established more than 400 years ago to support and coordinate the missionary work of the Catholic Church throughout the world. In Palazzo Ferratini, his Roman residence near the Spanish Steps, the “Collegio de Propaganda Fide” was founded with the goal of training missionaries spiritually, theologically, and culturally prepared to proclaim the Gospel throughout the world.On Tuesday, June 10, at 6 p.m., a conference dedicated to the figure of the Spanish priest will take place in the National Church of Spain (Hall in Rome’s Via Giulia). Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization (Section for the First Evangelization and the New Particular Churches), will also participate in the conference, entitled “At the Service of the Universal Mission: Juan Bautista Vives, Founder of the Collegio de Propaganda Fide.”Juan Buatista Vives’ “deeply ecclesial vision” and “his commitment,” states the conference press release, “gave rise to a work that marked the history of modern evangelization.”The versatile Spanish priest was linked to King Philip III and also served as representative of the Spanish Inquisition in Rome and ambassador of the Kingdom of Kongo’s first permanent embassy in the Eternal City. Thanks to his initiative, the remains of Popes Callistus III and Alexander VI were transferred to the Church of Santa Maria di Montserrat degli Spagnoli in the Regola district of Rome, where he is also buried.At the study conference on Tuesday, June 10, Cardinal Tagle will be joined by Don Flavio Belluomini, archivist of the Propaganda Fide Historical Archives, and Don Francisco Juan Martínez Rojas of the Spanish Institute of Church History. The conference will be moderated by Pierantonio Piatti, Secretary of the Pontifical Committee for Historical Sciences, the body sponsoring body of the conference. (Agenzia Fides, 7/6/2025)
    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Several people missing after river floods in Colombia

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BOGOTA, June 7 (Xinhua) — Four rafts and a kayak capsized on Friday after the Guejar River in central Colombia suddenly flooded, leaving several people missing, the National Disaster Risk Reduction Authority said.

    The incident occurred in the municipality of Mesetas, in the department of Meta. The rescue operation is ongoing with the support of local authorities, firefighters from nearby towns and the Colombian Aerospace Force.

    The missing people were reportedly taking part in recreational activities when the river suddenly burst its banks.

    Videos posted on social media suggested more than 20 people may have been injured, though officials said the number was being verified. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • Om Birla urges BRICS unity on terror, trade and tech as India prepares to host next summit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The 11th BRICS Parliamentary Forum concluded in Brasília with a call for stronger cooperation among member nations on key global challenges, including terrorism, artificial intelligence (AI), and economic inclusion.

    Addressing the forum, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla thanked the Brazilian Parliament, government, and people for hosting the summit. He said the forum witnessed “meaningful dialogue” and an “exchange of views” aimed at enhancing parliamentary ties among BRICS nations — Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.

    In its final declaration, the forum strongly condemned the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir. Member states agreed on the need for a zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism and underlined the importance of joint global efforts. The Speaker reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for all countries to adopt a zero-tolerance approach to terrorism.

    The discussions also covered the future of AI, with consensus emerging on the importance of its responsible use. Birla noted that while AI is essential, its deployment must be guided by transparency and accountability.

    Economic cooperation was another key focus area. The forum explored ways to deepen intra-BRICS trade and promote inclusive growth. “India has always supported the rule of law, global cooperation, and dialogue on the world stage,” Birla said.

    India will host the next edition of the BRICS Parliamentary Forum. Birla said the agenda would cover a wide range of issues including AI, trade, and social development, and added that India would ensure the summit is “successful and productive.”

    The LS Speaker expressed confidence that strengthened parliamentary exchanges and the sharing of best practices among BRICS members would bring about meaningful progress. He also extended his warm wishes to the Speakers and parliamentary leaders of all BRICS nations.

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Schiff, Peters, Vargas Demand Investigation Into San Diego ICE Raid

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)
    Lawmakers to ICE’s Office of Professional Responsibility: “This troubling incident is not an isolated case. Rather, it appears to be part of a broader pattern of escalated and theatrical immigration enforcement operations across the country”
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Alex Padilla, Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Immigration Subcommittee, and Adam Schiff (both D-Calif.), along with U.S. Representatives Scott Peters (D-Calif.-50) and Juan Vargas (D-Calif.-52), condemned a recent U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raid in San Diego and demanded an investigation following reports that around 20 ICE agents detained four employees at Buona Forchetta and Enoteca Buona Forchetta restaurants. ICE agents wearing military-style gear raided the restaurants during peak dining hours, detonating flash-bang grenades and instilling widespread fear and panic across the restaurants and the broader San Diego community. 
    The lawmakers emphasized that this disturbing raid reflects a pattern of “theatrical” immigration enforcement stunts under the Trump Administration, which have stoked fear and uncertainty in communities in California and across the country. They urged ICE’s Office of Professional Responsibility to investigate the agents’ use of force, tactical decisions, compliance with legal protocols, and coordination with local officials, as well as the operation’s impact on local communities and businesses. They also requested information on how the raid aligns with ICE’s current immigration enforcement priorities and what guidance agents had received regarding enforcement in civilian or public-facing settings.
    “This troubling incident is not an isolated case. Rather, it appears to be part of a broader pattern of escalated and theatrical immigration enforcement operations across the country,” wrote the lawmakers. “Similar tactics — including the use of heavily armed agents and high-profile raids in civilian spaces — have recently been employed in several other communities. These include a raid at an underground nightclub in Los Angeles just hours after the San Diego incident, and an April operation in New Bedford, MA, where agents violently smashed in a car window to detain a Guatemalan man waiting in his car for an attorney to arrive. These events raise serious questions about the appropriateness, proportionality, and execution of ICE tactics.”
    The lawmakers also highlighted the San Diego raid’s harmful impacts on the local economy, community safety, and public trust in law enforcement.
    “Several local officials — including the mayor of San Diego — have publicly condemned the raid, emphasizing its destabilizing effect on the community and economy. They have also condemned its chilling impact on the willingness of individuals to report crimes or co-operate with law enforcement,” continued the lawmakers. “These concerns are not just local; they speak to the national implications of how this Administration is misusing federal immigration enforcement power in ways that undermine public trust and community safety.”
    “We urge your office to prioritize this investigation and to provide a detailed report of your findings. Transparency and accountability are essential to maintaining public confidence in our law enforcement agencies,” concluded the lawmakers.
    Senators Padilla and Schiff, as well as Representatives Peters, Vargas, Sara Jacobs (D-Calif.-51), and Mike Levin (D-Calif.-49), also sent a letter today to Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem expressing their concern over the deliberate targeting of immigrants trying to follow the legal process at courthouses, including at the San Diego Immigration Court located in the Edward J. Schwartz Federal Building.
    Senators Padilla and Schiff continue to stand up against the Trump Administration’s inhumane immigration enforcement tactics across California. Last month, Padilla, Schiff, and Representative Norma Torres (D-Calif.-35) condemned the Department of Homeland Security’s indiscriminate immigration enforcement raids in Pomona, California, as part of President Trump’s cruel mass deportation agenda, which has terrorized California communities and harmed the economy. Earlier this year, Padilla and Schiff also demanded answers from the Trump Administration after Homeland Security Investigations agents attempted to enter two Los Angeles Unified School District elementary schools to question students.
    Full text of the letter is available here and below:
    Dear Associate Director Fenton:
    We write to express serious concern regarding the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operation conducted on May 30, 2025, at Buona Forchetta and Enoteca Buona Forchetta restaurants in San Diego, California. Reports indicate that approximately 20 agents in military-style gear executed a raid during peak dining hours, detaining four employees and deploying flash-bang grenades, which created widespread panic among staff and patrons.
    This troubling incident is not an isolated case. Rather, it appears to be part of a broader pattern of escalated and theatrical immigration enforcement operations across the country. Similar tactics—including the use of heavily armed agents and high-profile raids in civilian spaces—have recently been employed in several other communities. These include a raid at an underground nightclub in Los Angeles just hours after the San Diego incident, and an April operation in New Bedford, MA, where agents violently smashed in a car window to detain a Guatemalan man waiting in his car for an attorney to arrive. These events raise serious questions about the appropriateness, proportionality, and execution of ICE tactics.
    Given the gravity of these concerns, and the potential civil rights implications of these enforcement strategies, we respectfully request that your office undertake a thorough investigation into the May 30 raid in San Diego. We also ask that you respond to the following questions by July 7, 2025:
    1. Use of Force and Tactical Decisions: Was the decision to deploy agents in military-style gear including face coverings and to use flash-bang devices in a civilian environment justified based on any credible threat or resistance? If so, what specific threat assessments, risk factors, or intelligence justified the use of such force?
    2. Compliance with Legal Protocols: Did the operation comply with ICE’s internal policies and all applicable laws governing workplace enforcement actions, including the scope and execution of the search or arrest warrants? Please identify any lapses in oversight that may have contributed to the operation’s execution, and clarify whether any internal review procedures have been initiated as a result.
    3. Community Impact and Coordination: What steps, if any, were taken to consider the effect of such tactics on local businesses, immigrant communities, and public safety? Were local officials or law enforcement agencies consulted prior to the operation?
    4. Pattern of Conduct: How does this operation fit into current enforcement priorities, and what guidance has been issued by ICE leadership in recent months regarding arrest and detention priorities in civilian or public-facing environments?
    Several local officials—including the mayor of San Diego—have publicly condemned the raid, emphasizing its destabilizing effect on the community and economy. They have also condemned its chilling impact on the willingness of individuals to report crimes or co-operate with law enforcement. These concerns are not just local; they speak to the national implications of how this Administration is misusing federal immigration enforcement power in ways that undermine public trust and community safety.
    We urge your office to prioritize this investigation and to provide a detailed report of your findings. Transparency and accountability are essential to maintaining public confidence in our law enforcement agencies.
    Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. We look forward to your timely response and to the results of your investigation.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister of National Defence Remarks at the Responsible AI in the Military domain (REAIM) Summit 2024

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    September 10, 2024

    Thank you, very much and good afternoon colleagues.

    I’d like to begin my remarks by offering my sincere thanks to our hosts for all the work that they have done in organizing the summit and bringing this very important discussion together.

    At the first REAIM Summit, in the Netherlands in February 2023, Canada supported the “Call to Action” on the responsible development, deployment, and use of AI in the military.

    And following the inaugural REAIM Summit, I would like to take the opportunity to reflect on the productive work that has emerged since that time.

    As you’re all well aware, we are in an era of heightened global competition.

    Changing physical, technological and geopolitical landscapes have created new threats, vulnerabilities as well as new opportunities not only for our country but for our Allies and partners around the world.

    These new threats are driving AI innovation within our Department of National Defence and our Armed Forces, and Canada remains fully committed to the responsible use of AI, through our endorsement of the Blueprint for Action.

    As this new technology continues to become more visible in our operations and day-to-day work, it is critical that we harness this technology both effectively and ethically.

    And to ensure Canada is ready to do this, I have announced the launch of our Department of National Defence and our Armed Forces’ AI Strategy in March of this year.

    Our strategy aims to position the Canadian Armed Forces and our Department of National Defence as an AI-enabled organization by 2030.

    And it envisions the ethical, inclusive, and trusted use of AI to achieve interoperability and strategic advantage in the battlefield while enhancing stewardship of our resources.

    Our strategy also emphasizes the importance of cultivating an AI-ready workforce through training and partnership with allies.

    This will ensure that AI technologies are not only developed efficiently but also effectively integrated and managed.

    As part of our work to implement our AI Strategy, we have established the Department of National Defence and our Canadian Armed Forces AI Centre.

    Our intent is that this Centre will become the hub of AI expertise, including for policy development.

    It will also accelerate experimentation, testing, evaluation, and support to our Armed Forces members in fielding AI.

    And as part of these efforts, Canada remains committed to developing a framework for the responsible use of AI in military contexts while making sure that we address unique ethical challenges ingrained in this technology. This includes mitigating unintended bias, including those related to gender and race.

    Canada will ensure that any new AI or AI-enabled technology is developed and implemented in accordance with applicable laws, policies and guidelines, including applicable International Humanitarian Law, international human rights law, and the laws of armed conflict.

    We will also ensure that this technology is only used to improve the work of our military personnel but not replace it.

    That is why we have committed to ensuring that humans will always remain at the forefront of significant decisions with appropriate accountability mechanisms remaining in place.

    Together, these efforts will ensure that our Department and our Military’s use of AI remains safe, ethical and responsible, and lives up to what all of our citizens expect of us.

    We know that we must continue to innovate and remain agile to leverage AI’s full potential, but we know that we cannot do this alone.

    And going forward, our Department of National Defence will always engage in extensive collaboration with our internal and external partners, with industry, academia, as well as our allies and partners to ensure that our use of AI remains responsible and interoperable.

    And only by working together and fielding trusted systems, can we have the greatest opportunity to develop AI-ready forces who can contribute to defending our citizens at home, and our friends around the world.

    International engagements such as REAIM reflect Canada’s dedication to fostering a global standard for ethical AI in military operations, and directly supports that collaboration and collective endeavor.

    And to that end, I want to express my gratitude and welcome the opportunity to be here, to share lessons learned and best practices, and to ensure that AI technologies are used responsibly within the military domain.

    I look very much forward to the outcome of our discussions.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister of National Defence Remarks at the Seoul Defence Dialogue

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    September 11, 2024

    Minister Kim,
    Admiral Bauer,
    Excellencies,
    Colleagues and friends.

    Good morning to all.

    It’s a very great privilege for me to be here today for the Seoul Defence Dialogue as part of my first official visit to Korea.

    First of all, to Minister Kim, thank you for your very kind and warm hospitality, and your leadership both today at this very important Seoul Defence Dialogue, but also during yesterday’s United Nations Command Ministerial Meeting.

    And to Admiral Bauer, I want to take the opportunity to thank you for your exemplary leadership of the NATO Military Committee and your invaluable contributions to our alliance.

    As you have heard and understand, my co-panellists and I come from three very different parts of the world.

    But notwithstanding our separation by distance and culture, we share a common goal of maintaining the rules-based international order which has delivered peace, stability and prosperity to all of our peoples.

    And I believe that Canada has a unique role to play in achieving that goal because we are an Arctic nation, an Atlantic nation, and a Pacific nation.

    For example, our Pacific coastline is roughly 25,000 kilometres long and our trade and security links with this region are vital, and strong, and growing.

    In particular, Canada’s ties with the Republic of Korea run deep. Roughly 26,000 Canadians served here in Korea during the Korean War which was Canada’s third bloodiest conflict.

    And since the very beginning, we’ve been part of the United Nations Command, upholding and helping to uphold the Korean Armistice Agreement, and working towards a lasting peace.

    Canadian Armed Forces members also regularly deploy alongside members of Korea’s Armed Forces during regional exercises, including Exercise Rim of the Pacific which wrapped up only last month.

    And Korea has become one of Canada’s largest trading partners in the Indo-Pacific, as well as our third-largest regional partner when it comes to defence materiel.

    I believe very sincerely that there is much more that we can do together and that’s why we continue to make progress on our Action Plan to implement the Canada-Korea Strategic Partnership, which includes exploring more opportunities for our defence industries to work together.

    I am very pleased that in 2022, our countries re-signed a Defence Materiel Cooperation MOU and that we are seeing daily evidence of growing ties between our defence industrial bases.

    Relationships such as these, and those relationships fostered through this dialogue, are critical during increasingly difficult times.

    As we are all aware, our world has become a far more dangerous place over the past few years.

    A number of crises including Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine and the Israeli-Hamas conflict in the Middle East are all evidence of the challenges that the rules-based order is facing in today’s world.

    Here in the Indo-Pacific, we are seeing China undertaking the most rapid military build-up of any nation since the Second World War and it appears to intend to reshape the international system to suit its own goals.

    And as we’ve seen in the last few months, China is challenging the freedom of navigation of the South China Sea, a waterway that is critical to regional and global prosperity.

    And on occasion, it has repeatedly and dangerously obstructed the movement of Philippine vessels.

    They clearly openly aspire to unite with Taiwan, and we believe very strongly that any instability in the Taiwan Strait would have a devastating effect to the global economy.

    And closer to my country, China has deployed an increasing number of dual-purpose research vessels and surveillance platforms, collecting data about our Arctic and North.

    And in the Arctic, we are seeing China working hard to increase its economic and military presence in cooperation with Russia.

    It is clear that on matters of security, China’s interests may increasingly diverge from our own.

    But I think it’s also essential to prevent misunderstanding. Clear communication with China is vital and I took the opportunity just this past June to hold our first meeting between a Chinese and Canadian defence minister in over 11 years.

    And during that dialogue, I had the opportunity to make clear that foreign interference cannot be tolerated and expressed some concern about China’s military activity around Taiwan.

    But we were able to agree together that there is a need for dialogue and cooperation in order to avoid conflict.

    Likewise, we recognize the continued threat posed by North Korea. This includes the DPRK’s buildup in testing of ballistic missiles and weapons of mass destruction. Canada unequivocally condemns these actions in no uncertain terms.

    And we’ve taken action by imposing sanctions on North Korea, along with the UN Security Council sanctions, which the Canadian Armed Forces uphold through Operation NEON.

    Despite Russia’s attempts to undermine our work by vetoing the renewal of the UN Panel of Experts who track and report on evasion efforts, Canada will continue to monitor violations by the DPRK in cooperation with all of our international partners.

    We call on North Korea to stop these programs and other aggressive activities, to resume its adherence to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and to pursue dialogue with the international community.

    We are also concerned with China and North Korea’s deepening ties to Russia in support of its illegal invasion of Ukraine.

    We will continue to call them out for their work to spread disinformation and conduct malicious cyber activities which threaten our critical infrastructure and can sow distrust and a lack of trust in our most important institutions.

    In the face of these threats, the ties between Canada and our Indo-Pacific partners matter more now than ever, and that’s why in 2022, Canada released its Indo-Pacific Strategy.

    This strategy serves as a critical roadmap for how we will engage in the region. It makes very clear that our partners and allies can expect to see more of us present in this region of the world.

    We need to be a reliable and dependable partner and thanks to this strategy, our military presence in the Indo-Pacific is growing.

    Last year, as well as this year, we have deployed and are deploying, three Canadian naval warships into the region for the first time in decades.

    This increased presence is going to allow us to work more closely with partners including right here in the North Pacific.

    Most recently, HMCS Vancouver has been sailing on Exercise PACIFIC VANGUARD.

    As part of this mission, they’ve been training with members of the Korean, Japanese and American navies, strengthening their skills in maritime operations, anti-submarine warfare, air warfare operations and advanced maneuvering.

    And through Operation NEON, we have been deploying our ships and aircraft to monitor UN sanction operations against North Korea and working with the military members of all like-minded Pacific countries.

    As our people work and train together, they are learning valuable new skills and forging deeper bonds.

    Likewise, as one of the 18 countries that participates in the United Nations Command, Canada will continue to do our part to maintain stability and security on the Korean Peninsula.

    We have supported this mission from the very beginning, since 1953, and in the 71 years since this command was established, Canadian Armed Forces members have helped to enforce the Armistice Agreement and to reinforce deterrence.

    We have taken on a variety of critical roles including serving right on the front lines of the De-Militarized Zone as part of the Military Assistance Commission.

    And for the second time, a Canadian officer – currently Lieutenant General Macaulay, is currently serving as the Deputy Commander of the UNC.

    Our increased presence here in the Indo-Pacific must be sustained and that is going to require significant new investments in our capabilities.

    Earlier this year, I released an updated defence policy for my country.

    It’s called Our North, Strong and Free, and through this policy we have identified the Indo-Pacific, Europe and the Arctic as key strategic regions of focus for our military.

    We are investing almost $10 billion dollars to extend the life of our Halifax-class warships so that we can continue to deploy them right here and we’ve begun construction on a new fleet of River-Class Destroyers, launching the process to acquire up to 12 new conventionally-powered submarines for the Royal Canadian Navy.

    These are new and improved capabilities that are necessary, allowing Canada to continue to bolster its presence here in the Indo-Pacific, to do our part, and to live up to our obligations to our international partners.

    They will make us more interoperable with our closest partners and they will continue to contribute to deterrence.

    Our intent is to ensure that Canada remains a reliable and valuable partner in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.

    We recognize that the world has changed and continues to change rapidly. We also acknowledge we’ve got to do more, and we will do more.

    That’s why Canada has committed to investing 2% of its GDP in defence as rapidly as possible, and by 2032. As the security threats facing the Indo-Pacific and the world grow, we are stronger with like-minded partners who share our values.

    And as a proud Pacific nation and a dedicated NATO ally, Canada truly values our close relationships with nations that share our aspirations.

    Nations like the Republic of Korea, with whom we share a long and treasured friendship.

    These are indeed uncertain times, but I believe that they are also times of opportunity and possibility.

    Because we are stronger when we work together.

    When partners stand united.

    And for Canada’s part, I want to assure you all that we are committed to this region, we are here to stay, and we will do our part.

    And I believe that together we can maintain a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific, and defend the international rules that have kept us safe for nearly 80 years.

    Thank you. Merci.

    And again, thank you for the kind invitation to be here. 

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Remarks by the Deputy Prime Minister announcing the boldest mortgage reforms in decades to unlock homeownership for more Canadians

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    September 16, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario

    Good morning, everyone. Great to be here.

    Welcome to the first economic press conference of the season. I will speak about the Canadian economy and the new mortgage rules. Minister Virani will talk about the new framework to protect renters and home buyers. Finally, Minister Boissonnault will speak about what these new mortgage rules will mean for young workers and for families across Canada.

    Before diving into the new mortgage rules, I’d just like to say a couple of words about the Canadian economy.

    We’ve had some positive news over the past few months. We have now had inflation down within the Bank of Canada’s target range for seven months in a row, and in July, inflation hit a 40-month low. We’ve seen the Bank of Canada lead the G7 in cutting interest rates. Canada has now been the first G7 country to cut interest rates for the first time, the first G7 country to cut interest rates for the second time, and the first G7 country to cut interest rates for the third time. It looks as if a soft landing is in sight.

    We’ve now seen wages outpacing inflation for 18 months in a row. That is really important for hard-working Canadians, because it means their paycheques have more purchasing power. And the IMF is predicting that Canada’s GDP will be the fastest growing in the G7 in 2025.

    That brings me to my announcement today about mortgages and mortgage rules. For our government, housing is a priority because it’s a priority for Canadians, and that’s why in the budget we put forward the most ambitious plan since the Second World War to build more homes faster. A big part of that plan is to have more purpose-built rentals, to have more affordable housing. Another key element of that plan is ensuring that young Canadians who want to buy a home can do that—that the dream of homeownership remains in reach for our younger generations. And that’s why we’re making some really significant changes today.

    First, we are increasing the price cap for insured mortgages from $1 million to $1.5 million, effective December 15th this year. Why? Because the current $1 million cap dates back to 2012, and there have been big changes in the Canadian economy, the Canadian market. This change allows more Canadians to qualify for a mortgage with a downpayment below 20 per cent.

    So, we are raising the level for insured mortgages from $1 million to $1.5 million. The $1 million level was set in 2012. Since then, Canada’s nominal GDP has increased by 65 per cent. It was time to look at that number, and that is a change that is going to have a real impact for thousands, even millions of Canadians. It is going to put the dream of homeownership in reach for more young Canadians.

    The second change that we’re making: We’re expanding 30-year amortizations for insured mortgages. In the budget in the spring, we announced that 30-year amortizations would be available for first-time home buyers buying newly built homes, effective August 1st. Today, we are announcing that 30-year amortizations on insured mortgages will be available for all first-time home buyers. This really is about fairness for every generation. It’s about making that first home more available for young Canadians, for first-time home buyers.

    The second change we’re making in the insured market is we’re saying that for all buyers of newly built homes in the insured space, 30-year amortizations will be available. This is really, at heart, a supply side measure. This is about creating more demand for new builds, because we know that crucially, Canada needs to get more homes built faster. In order to get those homes built faster, more people need to be there buying them. That’s what this change is going to permit. Both of those changes are effective December 15th.

    I do want to point out that these measures build on our huge housing plan announced in the budget in the spring. They build on our plan to get 4 million homes built. They build on our tax-free First Home Savings Account. More than 750,000 Canadians—young Canadians, people who don’t have a first home yet—have opened those accounts. We are now taking the next step and making it easier for people who are saving so hard for that downpayment to buy their first home. These measures build on our Canadian Mortgage Charter.

    I do want to point out—because over the summer, I talked to a lot of people who are concerned as their mortgages come up for renewal—in the Mortgage Charter, we allowed all holders of insured mortgages to switch lenders at renewal without another mortgage stress test. That’s because we want people at renewal—who are already under a lot of pressure, who are already really concerned—to have maximum flexibility, to have the ability to shop around for the deal that works for them and their family.

    We are also today releasing blueprints for the Home Buyers’ Bill of Rights and the Renters’ Bill of Rights, and that is what we’re going to hear from Minister Virani about in a minute.

    I just want to highlight that today’s announcement is really important—important for all Canadians. These measures are aimed at building more homes faster across Canada, at creating intergenerational equity, and enabling young Canadians to achieve this Canadian dream and purchase their first home.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: House Standing Committee on National Defence (NDDN) appearance on mandate and priorities  

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    September 26, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario

    Merci, Mr. Chair. Good morning everyone. 

    This is my first appearance here as Chief of the Defence Staff, so I want to begin by saying how much I value the work this committee does.

    I appreciate the opportunity to discuss my mandate and priorities for the Canadian Armed Forces.

    I’m joined today by Vice Chief of the Defence Staff, Lieutenant-General Stephen Kelsey.

    We face a volatile and unpredictable global security environment.

    From ongoing wars in Ukraine and the Middle East to rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific.

    From climate change to disruptive technology to disinformation.

    These threats require us to be vigilant and forward-thinking in the way we approach defence.

    I’ve had the privilege of serving alongside the members of the Canadian Armed Forces for 34 years. Now I have the privilege of leading them.

    They are skilled, courageous, and dedicated beyond measure.

    Supporting and caring for our people must continue to be our top priority.

    I’m committed to building on the work of my predecessors.

    That means focusing on three R’s: recruitment, retention, and readiness.

    These are issues many of our Allies face as well.

    We need to get our Forces back to full strength within 5 years. This is vital.

    To do it, we need to continue modernizing how we recruit and who we recruit. 

    That means improving our processes without lowering our standards.

    And it means making a big push to recruit Canadians from all backgrounds, including opening the door to more permanent residents.

    Diversity makes us more operationally effective.

    What worked in the last 20 years will not work in the next 20 years. We can’t continue relying on the same thinking, the same mindset, and the same people around the table.

    We need to bring in new and broader perspectives, approaches, and ideas if we’re going to solve the complex challenges of today and tomorrow.

    On retention: we have stopped the downward trend and stabilized our numbers.

    We’re making progress, but there’s more to do.

    When we uphold the highest standards of conduct and performance…

    When our people can grow and thrive both professionally and personally…

    Not only will we attract the best and brightest—we will keep them.

    We also need to be ready. Always. And for anything.

    Readiness is a constant and it is a must.

    The world is in a state of transition.

    Outcomes are not guaranteed. We must be comfortable being uncomfortable.

    But that doesn’t mean we can’t be more organized and prepared.

    Readiness means having a stronger and more diverse foundation of personnel.

    With advanced capabilities that meet the future of warfare.

    With a willingness to innovate, adapt, and take risks.

    And it means collaborating with our Allies and partners around the world.

    This is particularly true when it comes to defending North America alongside the US—both through NORAD and more generally through the collaboration of our Canadian Joint Operations Command and the United States Northern Command.

    As you know, global interest in the Arctic is growing, including from our competitors and adversaries, and so we must be diligent in protecting and asserting Canadian sovereignty in the North.

    I visited NORAD Headquarters this week and saw firsthand how Canadian military members work seamlessly with their US colleagues 24/7 to defend our shared continent.

    We need to continue working closely through NORAD to detect, deter, and defend against aerospace threats.

    And beyond NORAD, through CJOC and US NORTHCOM to monitor our combined maritime approaches.

    This past July, for example, NORAD fighter jets from Canada and the United States intercepted Russian and Chinese aircraft in international airspace near Alaska.

    That same month, HMCS Regina shadowed a Chinese polar research vessel in the Bering Strait.

    As always, we must ensure our intercepts are carried out safely and professionally.

    Mr. Chair, I know none of this is easy.

    We’re transforming the Canadian Armed Forces while also fulfilling our growing duties.

    That’s like building and flying an airplane at the same time.

    But we know what our internal challenges are, and we know what we need to do.

    I believe deeply in this institution and what it stands for.

    We will continue tackling this work with determination and resolve.

    And we will get it done.

    Thank you. Merci. I’m happy to take your questions.

    General Jennie Carignan
    Chief of the Defence Staff 

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Yemen’s Houthis ready to exchange all prisoners with government

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    SANAA, June 7 (Xinhua) — Yemen’s Houthi group said on Friday it was ready to swap all prisoners with the country’s government, a major offer made by the rebels since the civil war began in late 2014.

    The Houthi-controlled Saba news agency reported, citing a statement from the head of the Houthi committee for prisoners’ affairs, Abdel Qader al-Murtada, that the group was ready to carry out “a full exchange process that includes all prisoners from all sides.”

    A.K. al-Murtada called on the Saudi government to put pressure on the Yemeni government to “respond to the initiative without preconditions.”

    Yemen’s internationally recognized government has yet to comment on the rebels’ proposal.

    In 2023, the Yemeni government and the Houthi group carried out a major UN-brokered prisoner exchange, exchanging about 900 people. Another major exchange took place in 2020, when both sides released about 1,000 prisoners and detainees.

    Yemen has been mired in civil war since late 2014, when rebels seized control of much of northern Yemen, ousting the Yemeni government from the capital Sanaa.

    Since April 2022, clashes between the Houthis and government forces have decreased following a UN-brokered ceasefire. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 382

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL2

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 382
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    105 AM CDT Sat Jun 7 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Northwest Arkansas
    Southern Kansas
    Extreme Southwest Missouri
    Northeast Oklahoma

    * Effective this Saturday morning from 105 AM until 700 AM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A couple tornadoes possible
    Widespread damaging winds likely with isolated significant gusts
    to 85 mph possible
    Isolated very large hail events to 2 inches in diameter possible

    SUMMARY…A fast-moving and intense bow echo along the
    Kansas/Oklahoma border will track east-southeastward across the
    watch through daybreak. Damaging wind gusts are the primary
    concern, along with a few tornadoes along the leading edge of the
    squall line.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 60 statute miles
    north and south of a line from 25 miles west northwest of Enid OK to
    35 miles east of Fayetteville AR. For a complete depiction of the
    watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU2).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
    tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
    area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
    threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
    and possible warnings.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 380…WW 381…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 2 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 75 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
    storm motion vector 28040.

    …Hart

    SEL2

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 382
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    105 AM CDT Sat Jun 7 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Northwest Arkansas
    Southern Kansas
    Extreme Southwest Missouri
    Northeast Oklahoma

    * Effective this Saturday morning from 105 AM until 700 AM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A couple tornadoes possible
    Widespread damaging winds likely with isolated significant gusts
    to 85 mph possible
    Isolated very large hail events to 2 inches in diameter possible

    SUMMARY…A fast-moving and intense bow echo along the
    Kansas/Oklahoma border will track east-southeastward across the
    watch through daybreak. Damaging wind gusts are the primary
    concern, along with a few tornadoes along the leading edge of the
    squall line.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 60 statute miles
    north and south of a line from 25 miles west northwest of Enid OK to
    35 miles east of Fayetteville AR. For a complete depiction of the
    watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU2).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
    tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
    area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
    threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
    and possible warnings.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 380…WW 381…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 2 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 75 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
    storm motion vector 28040.

    …Hart

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW2
    WW 382 TORNADO AR KS MO OK 070605Z – 071200Z
    AXIS..60 STATUTE MILES NORTH AND SOUTH OF LINE..
    25WNW END/ENID OK/ – 35E FYV/FAYETTEVILLE AR/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 50NM N/S /22WNW END – 32ESE RZC/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..2 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..75 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 28040.

    LAT…LON 37369834 36879354 35139354 35629834

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU2.

    Watch 382 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Mod (40%)

    Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes

    Low (10%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    High (80%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Mod (30%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Mod (30%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Mod (30%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (>95%)

    For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Honors Iowa’s Servicemembers, Witnesses Disaster Recovery, Touts Small Business Innovation, and More

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)

    RED OAK, Iowa – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) recently traveled from Pottawattamie County to Scott County to meet with servicemembers, small business owners, farmers, and law enforcement officers on her River to River Tour – part of her ongoing commitment to hear from Iowans in every corner of the state.
    Click HERE to download photos from Ernst’s visits.
    As the first female combat veteran elected to the Senate who served in the Iowa National Guard, it was especially meaningful for Ernst to honor Iowa National Guard soldiers as they deploy to serve our country in the Middle East. She gave remarks at the send-off ceremonies for both the 1st Battalion, 168th Infantry Regiment in her hometown of Red Oak and 224th Brigade Engineer Battalion in Davenport. Learn more about the ceremony in Red Oak from KSOM, KMALand, The Red Oak Express, and KMTV. WQAD, KLJB,and the Quad-City Times detailed the event in Davenport.

    To mark one year since devastating storms and tornados swept through southwest Iowa, Ernst visited Adair County where she toured an active Habitat for Humanity home construction site in Greenfield.Raccoon Valley Radio, KCCI, and WHO 13 joined the tour as she talked with the future homeowner about rebuilding and community recovery efforts.

    In Scott County, KWQC covered Ernst’s visit to Davenport Guns & Shooting Club where she met with the store’s owner to discuss the importance of protecting lawful gun dealers from Biden’s ATF with herFIREARM Act. Ernst closed out the visit with some target practice on the shop’s range.

    As Chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, Ernst elevates the voices of Iowa small businesses and presented five outstanding entrepreneurs across the state with her Small Business of the Week award. The Wilton-Durant Advocate News and the Muscatine Journal both joined as she honored Lynn and Brenda Ochiltree, owners of The Candy Kitchen, a historic soda fountain in downtown Wilton.

    As reported by Journal-Eureka, Ernst stopped by Boomerang Corporation in Jones County to learn more about how their team plans, designs, and oversees construction projects across eastern Iowa.

    In Jackson County, Ernst was thrilled to present Air Force veteran Dr. Don Schwenker and his family with a Small Business of the Week award for all their hard work providing care for veterans and the Maquoketa community at Timber City Chiropractic. The Maquoketa Sentinel-Press featured the visit. Daily Nonpareiland KMTV highlighted Ernst’s work to cut red tape and help rural entrepreneurs thrive during her visit to PowerTech in Council Bluffs.

    Iowa’s leadership in innovation for businesses both large and small was top of mind as Ernst gave remarks at an event hosted by Google in Cedar Rapids.

    Ernst also spotlighted entrepreneurship and the needs of small business owners at her roundtable in Iowa City. As featured on KGAN, she gathered folks with growing small businesses and University of Iowa leadership to discuss her INNOVATE Act followed by a tour of a University of Iowa research laboratory.

    Carroll Broadcasting and the Carroll Times Herald both featured Ernst’s roundtable with Iowa pork producers and cattlemen about her work to support Iowa farmers and producers, which includes fighting for a Farm Bill, pushing back against California’s Prop 12 overreach, and combatting foreign animal disease. Ernst also held a second roundtable in Dallas County to hear about the experiences and concerns of central Iowa law enforcement officers.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Office of the Governor — News Release — Gov. Green Releases Intent-to-Veto List

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    Office of the Governor — News Release — Gov. Green Releases Intent-to-Veto List

    Posted on Jun 6, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom, Office of the Governor Press Releases

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI 
    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI 
     
    JOSH GREEN, M.D. 
    GOVERNOR
    KE KIAʻĀINA 
     

    GOVERNOR GREEN RELEASES INTENT-TO-VETO LIST 

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    June 6, 2025

    HONOLULU – Governor Josh Green, M.D., today informed legislative leaders and stakeholders of his intent to veto 19 bills passed during the 2025 regular session of the Hawai‘i State Legislature.

    Governor Green is not required to veto every bill indicated on the Intent-to-Veto list, but cannot veto a bill that is not included. The release of this list provides additional time to continue ongoing discussions with key stakeholders concerning implementation and impact. Due to the record-setting number of bills enrolled to the governor this legislative session, potential changes to the state’s federal funding and reduced revenue projections from the Council on Revenues, additional time to analyze bills will ensure each bill is given the nuanced, thoughtful consideration it deserves. Governor Green has until July 9 to issue final vetoes. All other bills will become law by July 9.

    “Let me be clear: of the 320 bills passed by the Legislature this session, 19 are on our Intent-to-Veto list,” said Governor Green. “Our team has completed a review of every measure and the overwhelming majority of legislation will become law. Each bill on today’s list is based on thorough legal and fiscal analysis, and as always, was guided by what will best serve the people of Hawai‘i, protect our resources and strengthen our future.”

    To date, Governor Green has signed 200 bills into law benefiting the people and ‘āina of Hawai‘i, with core themes including environmental stewardship, educational access and success, as well as public safety. These represent key focus areas so far; additional bills awaiting signature will build upon this foundation to address state priorities. The remaining 101 bills are on track to become law by July 9.

    Over 300 bills were reviewed by state departments and agencies, the Attorney General and the Governor in the last month. The Governor has until July 9 to issue final vetoes from today’s list.

    The following bills are being considered for vetoes, line-item vetoes, or reductions.

    Fiscal Bills:

    HB126: RELATING TO PROPERTY FORFEITURE

    Bill Description: Increases transparency and accountability surrounding property forfeiture. Clarifies which property is subject to forfeiture. Amends the authorized disposition of forfeited property and the proceeds thereof. Requires the Attorney General to adopt rules necessary to carry out the purpose of the Hawaiʻi Omnibus Criminal Forfeiture Act. Repeals language that requires the Hawaiʻi Omnibus Criminal Forfeiture Act to be construed liberally.

    Veto Rationale: Asset forfeiture serves as a powerful deterrent against and punishment for criminal activity. The one-year deadline to return seized property for which the owner has not been charged with a covered offense, significantly weakens the efficacy of this dual deterrent and punishment. Many covered offenses, including felonies, often involve complex investigations that extend beyond a year, rendering this bill’s one-year deadline for law enforcement to file charges unrealistic. Seized property can serve as critical evidence in investigations, and its return before an investigation’s completion would severely hamper the investigation as well as the administration of justice at large.

    HB300: RELATING TO THE STATE BUDGET

    Bill Description: Appropriates funds for the operating and capital improvement budget of the Executive Branch for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027.

    Veto Rationale: Potential shifts in federal funding, coupled with recent projections from the Hawaiʻi Council on Revenues, require the state to reevaluate its budget to ensure essential services and priorities remain supported. Specific line-item reductions based on program feasibility, stability, and sustainability will help the state enter the fiscal year with a balanced budget and sound financial plan.

    HB302: RELATING TO CANNABIS
    Bill Description: Part I: Authorizes DOH to inspect qualifying patient medical records held by the physician, advanced practice registered nurse, or hospice provider who issued a written certification for the qualifying patient. Amends and adds definitions for purposes of the medical use of cannabis law. Clarifies the conditions of use for the medical use of cannabis. For purposes of issuing written certifications, authorizes the establishment of a provider-patient relationship via telehealth and limits the maximum amount of fees that can be assessed by providers. Authorizes the sale of hemp products and accessories for the medical use of cannabis at retail dispensing locations, except in waiting rooms. Clarifies transportation requirements for certain inter-dispensary sales of cannabis and manufactured cannabis products. Part II: Establishes criminal penalties for the unlicensed operation of a medical cannabis dispensary. Part III: Authorizes expenditures from the Medical Cannabis Registry and Regulation Special Fund to fund programs for the mitigation and abatement of nuisances related to illegal cannabis and hemp products and medical cannabis dispensaries and appropriates funds from the Special Fund to the AG’s Drug Nuisance Abatement Unit for these purposes, including establishing positions. Part IV: Beginning 1/1/2028, prohibits the cultivation of cannabis without a cannabis cultivator license issued by DOH.

    Veto Rationale: This administration remains committed to Hawai‘i’s existing medical cannabis program and supports efforts to expand access to medical cannabis for any medical condition. Although this bill’s authorization of medical cannabis certifications via telehealth expands access to medical cannabis, provisions authorizing the inspection of patients’ medical records without warrant constitute a grave violation of privacy. Given that the federal government classifies cannabis as a Schedule I substance, patients’ reasonable fears of repercussions based upon information gained from inspection of their personal medical records may deter patients from participating in the medical cannabis program.

    HB496: RELATING TO MĀMAKI TEA

    Bill Description: Prohibits the use of certain words and misleading Hawaiian imagery, place names, and motifs on the label of a consumer package that contains or includes tea or dried leaves from the plant Pipturus albidus, unless 100% of the tea or dried leaves were cultivated, harvested, and dried in the state. Appropriates funds for a Measurement Standards Inspector position.

    Veto Rationale: While the intent of this measure is to ensure consumer protection and reliable Made in Hawai‘i labeling, the bill imposes overly strict labeling requirements that could harm small businesses and māmaki producers who responsibly blend leaves from multiple sources. Prohibiting the labeling of products composed of less than 100% māmaki tea as “māmaki” ignores the economic contributions of and impacts to producers who mix or process māmaki with other herbs, undermining producers who support local māmaki farmers while meeting broader demand.

    HB796: RELATING TO TAX CREDITS

    Bill Description: Requires that income tax credits existing on 12/31/2025 or established or renewed after 12/31/2025 include a five-year sunset or an annual one-third reduction, beginning with the sixth year of the credit.

    Veto Rationale: This bill would have a significant long-term impact on income tax credits across a variety of industries, including film and television, research, and renewable energy. These tax credits are critical to supporting economic development and diversification, particularly within growing and emerging sectors. Categorically sunsetting income tax credits will not only disincentivize future investors from doing business in Hawai‘i, but will destabilize existing businesses that currently rely upon these tax credits.

    HB1369: RELATING TO TAXATION 

    Bill Description: Amends and repeals certain exemptions under the general excise tax and use tax laws.

    Veto Rationale: The amendments to the general excise tax and use tax contained in this bill would impact sugarcane producers, commercial fishing vessels and securities exchanges. Removing the specific tax exemptions afforded to these entities would provide little financial benefit to the state while harming, in particular, sugarcane producers.

    SB583: RELATING TO NAMING RIGHTS

    Bill Description: Allows the naming rights of the Stadium Facility and Convention Center Facility to be leased to any public or private entity. Requires any revenues derived from advertising or marketing in or on the Stadium Facility or Convention Center Facility to be deposited into the appropriate special fund of the facility. Authorizes the display of the name of any entity that leased the naming rights to a stadium operated by the Stadium Authority on the exterior of the stadium.

    Veto Rationale: Pursuant to section 14, article III, of the Hawai‘i State Constitution, each bill may only contain one subject, which must pertain to the bill’s title. The exemption of concessions in the stadium facility and Convention Center from typical concession procurement procedures may violate section 14, article III, of the Hawai‘i State Constitution since the exemption appears to fall outside the titular scope of the bill, naming rights.

    SB589: RELATING TO RENEWABLE ENERGY

    Bill Description: Requires the Public Utilities Commission to establish an installation goal for customer-sited distributed energy resources in the state. Requires the Public Utilities Commission to establish tariffs to achieve the installation goal and for grid services programs, microgrids and community-based renewable energy. Ensures that certain levels of compensation are provided for solar and energy storage exports from customer-sited distributed energy resources as part of grid service programs and requires the Public Utilities Commission to establish grid service compensation values. Clarifies when a person who constructs, maintains, or operates a new microgrid is not considered a public utility. Authorizes wheeling of renewable energy and requires the Public Utilities Commission to establish policies and procedures to implement wheeling and microgrid service tariffs.

    Veto Rationale: Maintaining Hawai‘i’s leadership in clean energy through established goals and initiatives remains a priority. The Public Utilities Commission has already opened or plans to open proceedings relating to microgrid services tariffs and customer-sited distributed energy resources and grid services. The mandates contained in this bill therefore risk duplication and delay of already existing efforts.

    Non-Fiscal Bills: 

    HB235: RELATING TO TRAFFIC SAFETY

    Bill Description: Requires the Department of Transportation, after the City and County of Honolulu educates the public and adjusts any systems, to expand the use of photo red light imaging detector systems and automated speed enforcement systems to locations on the North Shore of O‘ahu.

    Veto Rationale: The Department of Transportation has developed specific criteria for the selection of communities within which to implement traffic safety systems. This criteria incorporates data-driven crash, citation and traffic volume metrics, which ensure communities are chosen based on need and potential for greatest impact. Ignoring this criteria in favor of legislatively mandated location selection threatens the integrity of the photo red light imaging detector system and automated speed enforcement system programs.

    HB800: RELATING TO GOVERNMENT

    Bill Description: Provides for the transfer of certain parcels in the Liliha Civic Center area and Iwilei Fire Station area from various state agencies to the City and County of Honolulu. Provides for the transfer of the parcel of land upon which Ali‘i Tower is sited from the City and County of Honolulu to the Department of Land and Natural Resources. Exempts the lands transferred to the Department of Land and Natural Resources from the definition of public lands for purposes of Chapter 171, HRS.

    Veto Rationale: The land transfers provided in the bill would negatively impact the City and County of Honolulu, which relies upon Ali‘i Tower’s land lease revenues and office spaces. Additionally, the state would face indeterminate additional costs, as Ali‘i Tower’s age likely necessitates capital improvements and ongoing maintenance. Although the intent of this bill is to reduce the state’s reliance on private commercial office space, no analysis exists identifying the amount of office space the acquisition of Aliʻi Tower would provide the state.

    HB958: RELATING TO TRANSPORTATION

    Bill Description: Establishes safe riding behaviors for electric bicycles. Prohibits the operation of high-speed electric devices in certain locations. Establishes labeling and signage requirements for electric bicycles. Prohibits the operation of a moped or electric motorcycle in certain locations. Amends the definition of “bicycle” for purposes of county vehicular taxes. Defines “electric bicycle” in place of “low-speed electric bicycle.” Defines “electric micro-mobility device” and requires the same regulations as electric foot scooters to apply to electric micro-mobility devices. Prohibits a person under the age of 16 from operating a class 3 electric bicycle. Authorizes a person under the age of 14 to operate class 2 electric bicycles under supervision. Prohibits a person from riding a class 3 electric bicycle on a sidewalk. Authorizes a person to ride a class 1 or class 2 electric bicycle on a sidewalk under certain circumstances. Prohibits a person from operating a bicycle or electric foot scooter under the age of 18 without a helmet. Repeals the requirement that moped drivers use bicycle lanes and substitutes the term “motor-driven cycle” with the term “motor scooter.”

    Veto Rationale: While mopeds and motorcycles are exempt from the prohibition established within this bill, on “high-speed electric devices” driving on public roadways, electric cars are not exempt. Such a prohibition would likely violate the Commerce Clause and Equal Protection Clause of the United States Constitution and conflict with the administration’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

    HB1296: RELATING TO THE MAJOR DISASTER FUND

    Bill Description: Establishes timely notice and reporting requirements to the Legislature by the Governor regarding the transfer of appropriations to the Major Disaster Fund. Effective 7/1/2025. Sunsets 7/1/2026.

    Veto Rationale: The administration is committed to the transparent, efficient management of state funds. During times of emergency, flexibility and the quick release of funds is necessary to respond to rapidly changing situations. This bill disrupts the delicate balance between reporting requirements facilitating government transparency and fiscal flexibility undergirding efficient response and recovery efforts. Placing additional administrative oversight over funds expended for emergencies jeopardizes public safety.

    SB15: RELATING TO HISTORIC PRESERVATION 

    Bill Description: Amends the definition of “historic property” to require that the property is over 50 years old and meets the criteria for inclusion in the Hawaiʻi Register of Historic Places. Excludes proposed projects on existing residential property and proposed projects that are in nominally sensitive areas from the State’s Historic Preservation Program review, under certain circumstances.

    Veto Rationale: Exempting proposed projects on any existing residential property from historic preservation review fails to consider properties that have never undergone such a review and may contain historically significant artifacts or iwi kūpuna. This categorical exclusion increases the risk for desecration of iwi kūpuna and historical resources. Although Governor Green supports amending the historic preservation review process to facilitate housing production, a more nuanced approach to protecting iwi kūpuna is needed, such as that advanced in SB 1263.

    SB31: RELATING TO PROPERTY

    Bill Description: Authorizes a person who discovers a recorded discriminatory restrictive covenant to take certain actions, without liability, to invalidate the covenant. Defines discriminatory restrictive covenant.

    Veto Rationale: By enabling any person, including those without any interest in the specified real property, to record a statement that a real property’s title includes a discriminatory restrictive covenant, this bill provides a statutorily authorized mechanism for the circulation of disinformation. This disinformation has the potential to negatively affect the marketability of a property. Because the person who recorded the statement claiming a discriminatory restrictive covenant exists is waived of any liability, no recourse is available to those who suffer financial loss due to inaccurate claims concerning their property’s title.

    SB38: RELATING TO HOUSING

    Bill Description: Requires the Hawaiʻi Housing Finance and Development Corporation to provide counties with an opportunity to comment on certain housing development projects. Prohibits the legislative body of a county from imposing stricter conditions than the Hawaiʻi Housing Finance and Development Corporation, stricter area median income requirements, or a reduction in fee waivers to housing development proposals that would increase the cost of the project.

    Veto Rationale: County councils have expressed concerns that this bill hampers their ability to work with developers to modify housing projects to reflect the specific needs of their communities. While the administration supports measures intended to facilitate the production of affordable housing, further dialogue with the counties on this measure’s implementation is required.

    SB66: RELATING TO HOUSING

    Bill Description: Establishes procedures and requirements for single-family and multifamily housing project applicants to apply for an expedited permit, including requirements for completeness of expedited permit applications, duties of licensed professionals and the counties during construction, and applications for owner-builder exemptions. Takes effect 7/1/2026. Sunsets 6/30/2031.

    Veto Rationale: By allowing any qualified professional to determine a project’s impact on historical resources, this bill permits a project proponent to evaluate and determine the impact of its own projects on historical resources. This is a conflict of interest that allows for self-serving determinations, undermines the authority and purpose of regulatory agencies’ independent evaluations, and increases risk to iwi kūpuna.

    SB104: RELATING TO CORRECTIONS

    Bill Description: Beginning 7/1/2026, restricts the use of restrictive housing in state-operated and state-contracted correctional facilities, with certain specified exceptions. Establishes a restrictive housing legislative working group to develop and recommend more comprehensive laws, policies and procedures regarding restrictive housing for members of vulnerable populations by 1/8/2027. Requires the Hawaiʻi Correctional System Oversight Commission to review restrictive housing placements on an annual basis. Authorizes the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, by 12/1/2027, to implement policies and procedures recommended by the restrictive housing working group related to committed persons. Requires interim and final reports to the Legislature and Hawaiʻi Correctional System Oversight Commission.

    Veto Rationale: The Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation has policies in place governing the use of restrictive housing. These policies and procedures comply with National Institute of Corrections and American Correctional Association standards. Rather than improve the health and safety of those in the department’s care, the implementation of certain requirements proposed in this bill will jeopardize the safety, security and good governance of the department’s facility, negatively impacting inmates. In lieu of this measure and to address stakeholders’ concerns, the department is working with the Hawaiʻi Correctional Systems Oversight Commission to amend its policies and procedures.

    SB447: RELATING TO A DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH PILOT PROGRAM

    Bill Description: Establishes a Hiring Pilot Program within the Department of Health, which includes an amended hiring procedure for delegated position classifications, certain flexibilities regarding minimum qualifications for positions having a salary range at or below SR-10, the ability to directly hire certain individuals into a civil service position if certain conditions are met, and the authority to make certain temporary appointments at the merited civil service pay scale without step limitation. Applies to recruitments initiated before 7/1/2028. Requires annual reports to the Legislature. Sunsets 7/1/2028.

    Veto Rationale: The governor strongly supports efforts to streamline the state’s hiring process to address our workforce vacancies, especially those in our state’s public health sector. However, this bill conflicts with state civil service law, undermining the state’s merit-based civil service system. Disparities in hiring, classification and compensation throughout the state are expected to occur should this bill become law.

    SB1102: RELATING TO THE AIRCRAFT RESCUE FIRE FIGHTING UNIT

    Bill Description: Specifies the appointment processes and terms for the Fire Chief of the Hawaiʻi State Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting Unit of the Airports Division of the Department of Transportation.

    Veto Rationale: The appointment process proposed in the bill is inconsistent with the selection process for other department leadership positions. Further, due to the need to obtain legislative approval for the appointment of the Fire Chief, following the appointment process contained in this bill may delay the appointment of this critical leadership position, impacting airport operations, safety and readiness.

    # # #

    Media Contacts:  
    Erika Engle
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Governor, State of Hawai‘i
    Office: 808-586-0120
    Email: [email protected] 

    Makana McClellan
    Director of Communications
    Office of the Governor, State of Hawaiʻi
    Cell: 808-265-0083
    Email: [email protected]

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Gavin Newsom on recent chaotic and reckless immigration raids

    Source: US State of California 2

    Jun 6, 2025

    LOS ANGELES – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued the following statement in response to widespread immigration raids by federal agents:

    Continued chaotic federal sweeps, across California, to meet an arbitrary arrest quota are as reckless as they are cruel. 

    Donald Trump’s chaos is eroding trust, tearing families apart, and undermining the workers and industries that power America’s economy.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Recent news

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    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom issued the following statement today after a federal judge ruled that the Trump administration must restore funding to AmeriCorps in California. This comes after Governor Newsom, Attorney General Rob Bonta and a coalition of…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Wildfire smoke causes poor air quality in major Canadian cities

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    OTTAWA, June 6 (Xinhua) — Smoke from wildfires raging in northern Ontario and the Prairies of Canada caused poor air quality and reduced visibility in major Canadian cities including Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal on Friday.

    Environment Canada issued a special air quality statement Friday in affected areas, warning that people most vulnerable to health impacts from air pollution should avoid strenuous outdoor work and seek medical attention if symptoms develop.

    Environment Canada’s David Phillips told CTV News that air quality is deteriorating as wildfires spread across the country.

    “We’ve certainly seen this week in Ontario that a lot of the smoke from the fires is going south,” he said.

    “Only a few people see the flames, but millions smell the smoke,” added D. Phillips.

    Toronto’s air quality was ranked the second worst in the world on Friday afternoon, data showed. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Energy Secretary Wright, EPA Administrator Zeldin, and Interior Secretary Burgum Visit Alaska to Advance Unleashing American Energy

    Source: US Department of Energy

    In Case You Missed It— U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright traveled to Alaska earlier this week, where he joined U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin to advance President Trump’s bold agenda to unleash Alaska’s extraordinary resource potential. In Anchorage and on the North Slope, Secretary Wright met with state, local and tribal leaders as well as Alaskan energy workers, held bilateral meetings with foreign energy ministers to advance American energy projects like Alaska LNG, and participated in a keynote fireside chat at the Alaska Sustainable Energy Conference.

    “I was proud to join my colleagues, Doug Burgum and Lee Zeldin, in Alaska to help fulfill President Trump’s mission of unleashing Alaska to create a safe, prosperous, and opportunity-filled future,” said Secretary Wright. “Alaska has always been a big bold place, a big bold idea, full of big bold people. Unfortunately, the last administration especially and many before them sought to shut down Alaska in the name of climate nonsense. Those days are over. The Trump Administration is fully committed to restoring the rights and liberties of Alaskans, because when Alaska is unleashed, the entire country and world benefits.”

    Click here to watch a highlight video of the trip and here to download and view photos from the visit.

    Roundtable in Anchorage

    On Sunday, Secretaries Wright and Burgum and Administrator Zeldin joined Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy and Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) for a roundtable discussion in Anchorage with leaders from across Alaska’s resource development industry.

    Town hall in Utqiagvik (Barrow), Alaska

    The delegation then traveled to the capital of Alaska’s North Slope Borough, Utqiagvik, Alaska, for a town hall with the predominantly Alaska-Native community. The cabinet members heard from a variety of community leaders and residents from villages across the North Slope who described how President Trump’s agenda has positively impacted their future.

    “The people of Kaktovik have been prisoners in our own ancestral homelands because the refuge was placed on top of us, restricting not just oil and gas development, but our movements. . . I’m so proud of our President because he made sure that our ancestral homelands weren’t going to be stolen… if the other guy would have won, there’s no doubt in my mind that our homeland would have been stolen and there’s nothing we could have done about it. But on day one, Trump had the heart and the wherewithal to be able to right this wrong and I’m extremely grateful for that. . . In the words of our commander in chief, President, Donald J. Trump, drill baby drill.” —Charles Lampe, resident of Kaktovik, Alaska, the only village in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR)

    Tour of Trans-Alaska Pipeline System and meetings with industry leaders and international energy ministers in Prudhoe Bay

    On Monday, the delegation visited Prudhoe Bay. They began at Pump Station 1 of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System (TAPS) they met with energy workers and delivered remarks. Upon arrival, Secretary Wright and his colleagues greeted international dignitaries from South Korea, Taiwan, Japan, the Philippines, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) who joined for the day’s events.

    “Today, oil is the largest source of energy on the planet and the fastest source of energy on the planet is natural gas. You have the big two right here: let’s double oil production, build the big, beautiful twin pipeline, and we will help energize the world, strengthen our country and strengthen our families.” –Secretary Wright

    The delegation also held a roundtable discussion with foreign energy representatives and U.S. industry executives, focused on international investment, LNG demand, and energy security partnerships. They also toured the Hilcorp Central Gas Facility and visited the Prudhoe Bay Discovery Well—highlighting Alaska’s legacy and future as a cornerstone of American energy production.

    Alaska Sustainable Energy Conference and bilateral energy meetings

    At the 2025 Alaska Sustainable Energy Conference, Secretaries Wright and Burgum and Administrator Zeldin joined Governor Dunleavy for a keynote discussion on the Administration’s progress and future plans for expanding resource development in Alaska.

    “The main thing we’re looking to get is people that want to buy Alaskan natural gas, and I think we’ve seen tremendous interest in that.” –Secretary Wright at the Alaska Sustainable Energy Conference

    Secretary Wright also held bilateral meetings with the energy ministers from the Philippines and Taiwan.

    Advancing President Trump’s ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’

    Throughout the visit, Secretary Wright and the delegation also discussed the enormous potential of President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill, which includes provisions to mandate lease sales in the Cook Inlet and ANWR with an increased cost-share for Alaska, initiate a de-risking program for LNG projects, enact energy permitting reforms, and deliver higher wages and lower energy costs for American families.

    Making headlines across the country

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Four Israeli soldiers killed in Gaza blast

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    JERUSALEM, June 7 (Xinhua) — Four Israeli soldiers were killed in the southern Gaza Strip on Friday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said.

    The dead soldiers included 33-year-old Staff Sergeant Hen Gross and 19-year-old Staff Sergeant Yoav Raver, according to the statement.

    Israeli state television Kan TV News reported that the soldiers were killed when an explosive device went off at a Hamas-linked building in Khan Yunis, causing the building to collapse.

    Rescuers worked for several hours to extract bodies from the rubble, the channel reported. IDF troops entered the building after receiving intelligence that a Hamas tunnel was located underneath.

    According to the channel and the IDF, five more soldiers were injured in the incident. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Do YOU have what it takes?

    Source: US Army (video statements)

    About the U.S. Army: The Army Mission – our purpose – remains constant: To deploy, fight and win our nation’s wars by providing ready, prompt & sustained land dominance by Army forces across the full spectrum of conflict as part of the joint force. Interested in joining the U.S. Army? Visit:
    spr.ly/6001igl5L
    Connect with the U.S. Army online: Web:
    https://www.army.mil
    Facebook:
    https://www.facebook.com/USarmy/
    X:

    Instagram:
    https://www.instagram.com/usarmy/
    LinkedIn:
    https://www.linkedin.com/company/us-army
    #USArmy #Soldiers #Military #Shorts #Army

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVwD11WNGVI

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 381

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL1

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 381
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    1005 PM CDT Fri Jun 6 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Western and Central Oklahoma and the Oklahoma Panhandle
    The Texas Panhandle

    * Effective this Friday night and Saturday morning from 1005 PM
    until 600 AM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A couple tornadoes possible
    Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 3
    inches in diameter likely
    Scattered damaging winds likely with isolated significant gusts
    to 75 mph possible

    SUMMARY…Multiple intense supercells will likely continue to pose a
    threat for large to very large hail this evening into the early
    overnight hours as they move generally southeastward. The largest
    hailstones may reach up to 2-3 inches in diameter. A couple of
    tornadoes will also be possible with these supercells, especially
    along/near a surface boundary draped northwest to southeast across
    the OK/TX Panhandles into western/central OK. Otherwise, scattered
    severe/damaging winds up to 65-75 mph will likely become an
    increasing concern as thunderstorms grow upscale into a cluster
    overnight.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 65 statute miles
    north and south of a line from 35 miles south southwest of Guymon OK
    to 15 miles south southeast of Chandler OK. For a complete depiction
    of the watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS
    WOU1).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
    tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
    area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
    threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
    and possible warnings.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 379…WW 380…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 3 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 65 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 550. Mean
    storm motion vector 30035.

    …Gleason

    SEL1

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 381
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    1005 PM CDT Fri Jun 6 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Western and Central Oklahoma and the Oklahoma Panhandle
    The Texas Panhandle

    * Effective this Friday night and Saturday morning from 1005 PM
    until 600 AM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A couple tornadoes possible
    Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 3
    inches in diameter likely
    Scattered damaging winds likely with isolated significant gusts
    to 75 mph possible

    SUMMARY…Multiple intense supercells will likely continue to pose a
    threat for large to very large hail this evening into the early
    overnight hours as they move generally southeastward. The largest
    hailstones may reach up to 2-3 inches in diameter. A couple of
    tornadoes will also be possible with these supercells, especially
    along/near a surface boundary draped northwest to southeast across
    the OK/TX Panhandles into western/central OK. Otherwise, scattered
    severe/damaging winds up to 65-75 mph will likely become an
    increasing concern as thunderstorms grow upscale into a cluster
    overnight.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 65 statute miles
    north and south of a line from 35 miles south southwest of Guymon OK
    to 15 miles south southeast of Chandler OK. For a complete depiction
    of the watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS
    WOU1).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
    tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
    area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
    threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
    and possible warnings.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 379…WW 380…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 3 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 65 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 550. Mean
    storm motion vector 30035.

    …Gleason

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW1
    WW 381 TORNADO OK TX 070305Z – 071100Z
    AXIS..65 STATUTE MILES NORTH AND SOUTH OF LINE..
    35SSW GUY/GUYMON OK/ – 15SSE CQB/CHANDLER OK/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 55NM N/S /56N AMA – 45ENE OKC/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..3 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..65 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 550. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 30035.

    LAT…LON 37150174 36469672 34589672 35270174

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU1.

    Watch 381 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Mod (40%)

    Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes

    Low (20%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    High (70%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Mod (50%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Mod (60%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Mod (60%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (90%)

    For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Member Hassan Emphasizes Bipartisan Cooperation & Need to Streamline Regulations to Strengthen U.S. Supply Chains at Joint Economic Committee Hearing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Maggie Hassan
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Ranking Member of the Joint Economic Committee, helped lead a hearing yesterday examining barriers to supply chain modernization and ways to enhance U.S. manufacturing productivity. During the hearing, Senator Hassan highlighted bipartisan agreement on the need to strengthen America’s ability to outcompete China while raising concerns about current policies from the Trump Administration that threaten recent progress. 
    “I join Chairman Schweikert in recognizing how important it is that we modernize our supply chains and strengthen manufacturing here in the United States, especially as we work to outcompete China,” said Senator Hassan. “In the last several years, we’ve seen increased investment in critical technology manufacturing across the country, including new funding for projects in my home state of New Hampshire.”  
    Senator Hassan emphasized the success of recent bipartisan investments in American manufacturing and research, noting that legislation like the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act has driven critical domestic technology manufacturing and that the bipartisan infrastructure law and energy tax cuts in the Inflation Reduction Act are supporting modern supply chains through energy production and infrastructure investments. “To capitalize on these investments, deliver for the American people, and support private sector growth, we also need to streamline regulations. Doing so is essential to advancing American innovation and manufacturing,” she said. 
    However, Senator Hassan expressed concerns about Trump Administration policies that could undermine recent progress: “President Trump’s actions have threatened the progress that we’ve started to see in recent years. His erratic tariffs are slowing manufacturing investment and his moves to slash funds for cutting-edge research will make it harder for the United States to develop and produce our own technology,” Senator Hassan warned.  
    Click here for video of the full hearing.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Hassan and Cornyn Reintroduce Bipartisan Bill to Crack Down on Dark Web Drug Trafficking

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Maggie Hassan
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH), a senior member of the Homeland Security Committee, and John Cornyn (R-TX) reintroduced a bipartisan bill to strengthen penalties on drug dealers and target international fentanyl trafficking through the dark web.
    “The dark web is a hotspot for illegal drug trafficking, which helps fuel the fentanyl crisis that is devastating New Hampshire and communities across our country,” said Senator Hassan. “This bipartisan bill will strengthen penalties on drug traffickers who use the dark web, making it more difficult for criminals to hide behind a computer as they spread illegal drugs on our streets.”
    “The dark web has become a marketplace for drug traffickers who exploit anonymity to flood our communities with deadly narcotics,” said Senator Cornyn. “This bill gives law enforcement the tools they need to crack down on these criminals by helping prosecutors hold bad actors accountable and by disrupting illicit drug sales on the dark web.” 
    The bipartisan Dark Web Interdiction Act would:
    Strengthen criminal penalties on individuals convicted of trafficking illegal drugs on the dark web by directing the United States Sentencing Commission to enhance sentencing guidelines for those individuals. 
    Solidify the work of the Joint Criminal Opioid and Darknet Enforcement (J-CODE) task force that leads coordinated international, federal, state, and local efforts to combat drug trafficking on the dark web. Since its creation in 2018, J-CODE has led to hundreds of arrests worldwide, seizures of thousands of pounds of narcotics, and the closure of several dark web marketplaces. 
    Direct the Department of Justice, Department of Homeland Security, and Treasury Department to issue a report to Congress within one year detailing the use of cryptocurrency in the distribution of opioids on the dark web, as well as provide recommendations for how Congress can address the use of virtual currency for opioid trafficking on the dark web. 
    This bipartisan bill is part of Senator Hassan’s ongoing efforts to stop drug trafficking and support communities devastated by the fentanyl crisis. Senator Hassan helped introduce the bipartisan HALT Fentanyl Act to permanently classify fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs under the Controlled Substances Act, which passed the U.S. Senate in March. Senator Hassan also helped advance the bipartisan DETECT Fentanyl and Xylazine Act, which was signed into law in December and is supporting law enforcement with enhanced tools to find and eliminate illegal substances such as fentanyl and xylazine. Additionally, Senator Hassan and her colleagues passed into law the bipartisan FEND Off Fentanyl Act, which targets the illicit fentanyl supply chain and imposes sanctions on traffickers. Senator Hassan also developed the END FENTANYL Act, signed into law last year, which helps strengthen Customs and Border Protection’s efforts to crack down on fentanyl trafficking at the border.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Announces $14 Million for Hurricanes Ida, Laura Recovery, Wildfire Suppression

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) announced Louisiana will receive $14,199,138.08 from the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in reimbursement for building replacements, permanent repairs, and fire suppression efforts following Hurricanes Laura and Ida, and the Tiger Island Fire.
    “When natural disasters threaten lives and homes, Louisiana pulls together,” said Dr. Cassidy, “These dollars support the people and places that keep our state running.”
    Grant Awarded
    Recipient
    Project Description
    $ 3,486,98.90
    St. Nicholas Center for Children
    This grant will provide federal funding for replacement of the main building following Hurricane Laura.
    $3,436,062.30
    City of Sulphur
    This grant will provide federal funding for permanent repairs to the wastewater treatment plant generator system following Hurricane Laura.
    $1,129,735.21
    New Providence Baptist Church
    This grant will provide federal funding for permanent repairs to the main building following Hurricane Laura.
    $1,323,640.80
    South Louisiana Electric Cooperative Association
    This grant will provide federal funding for permanent repairs to the Houma Office Building following Hurricane Ida.
    $2,712,732.84
    South Louisiana Electric Cooperative Association
    This grant will provide federal funding for replacement of the Houma Office Building following Hurricane Ida.
    $1,041,069.96
    Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport
    This grant will provide federal funding for permanent repairs to Concourse B – East Terminal following Hurricane Ida.
    $1,068,910.07
    Louisiana Department of Public Safety
    This grant will provide federal funding for fire suppression operations during the Tiger Island Fire.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Wildfire smoke causes poor air quality in major Canadian cities

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

    Buildings are shrouded in smoke from wildfire in Toronto, Canada, on June 6, 2025. (Photo by Zou Zheng/Xinhua)

    Smoke from wildfires burning in northern Ontario and the Prairies of Canada caused poor air quality and reduced visibility in major cities including Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal on Friday.

    Environment Canada issued special air quality statements for these areas on Friday, warning that people most likely to suffer health effects from air pollution should avoid strenuous activities outdoors and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms.

    Environment Canada’s David Phillips said on CTV News that as wildfires ramp up across the country, air quality is deteriorating.

    “What we’ve seen this week, of course, in Ontario is a lot of that smoke from fires has come south,” Phillips said.

    “Only a few see the flames but millions smell the smoke,” he said.

    According to data from Swiss air quality tracker IQAir, Toronto’s air quality was ranked the second worst in the world Friday afternoon. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI: MediPharm Labs’ Board Continues Value Destruction for Shareholders with Sale of Hope Facility

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Complete Incompetence at the Board Level Results in Fire Sale of Treasured MediPharm Asset, the Hope Facility, to a Competitor

    Hope Facility was One of Canada’s Best Cultivation Assets Before it was Acquired by MediPharm, Grossly Mismanaged, and Ultimately Shut Down in 2024

    MediPharm Labs’ Board is Pursuing its Worst Deal Yet: A Highly Dilutive NO CASH Sale of the Remaining Company

    Apollo has a Concrete and Achievable Plan to Drive MediPharm’s Share Price from Nearly $0.06 to Over $1.00, Restoring Value to its Loyal Shareholders

    SHAREHOLDERS ARE URGED TO VOTE THE GOLD CARD “FOR” APOLLO CAPITAL’S SIX DIRECTOR NOMINEES AND NOT VOTE MEDIPHARM’s GREEN CARD

    TORONTO, June 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Apollo Technology Capital Corporation (“Apollo Capital”), one of MediPharm Labs’ (“MediPharm”) largest investors, warns MediPharm shareholders that the Company’s current leadership is continuing its pursuit of value destructive M&A, with the ultimate goal of a non-cash dilutive sale of the entire company. A sale of the Company which would trigger over $5M in change of control and other payments to current management.

    “It’s a travesty for shareholders to have what is believed to be a $12M asset sold for just $4.5M, likely netting shareholders less than $4M after fees and expenses. Worse still, the acquirer will wisely use the facility to produce cannabis for export that will directly compete with MediPharm in Europe,” says Regan McGee of Apollo Capital.

    “Yesterday’s fire sale announcement makes it crystal clear that MediPharm’s Board has no actual value creation strategy, just a desire to sell off MediPharm’s assets at shareholders’ expense to keep paying themselves at 500% above market norms. Is MediPharm pursuing growth facilities as a strategy or not? Is the Napanee facility the next fire sale we will see to a competitor?” questions Regan McGee of Apollo Capital.

    Apollo expects the scaling of MediPharm’s Napanee facility to cost shareholders significantly more than what the buyer of the Hope Facility will spend to achieve real profitability. Apollo expects the scaling of MediPharm’s Napanee facility to cost between $3 million and $5 million and take 12 to 18 months to generate revenue. Apollo notes MediPharm’s management team does not have cultivation experience, which could result in millions of investment dollars needed before it provides a return, if ever.

    The Hope Facility, formerly known as CannaFarms, was built by the highly respected Laflamme family to be one of the first licensed facilities in Canada. As exceptional visionaries, the Laflamme family built a world-class facility at immense personal cost to service patients in need, including military veterans. After nearly a decade of strong operational success as a positive driver for the community, MediPharm leadership not only failed to realize the value of its acquisition, but handed its assets to a competitor for well below market value.

    This sale is a tragic outcome for MediPharm shareholders. CEO David Pidduck has sold off MediPharm’s Hope.

    Apollo Capital asks:

    • Why did the Board fail to capitalize on the value of the operational and profitable Hope Facility, as MediPharm’s competitor plans to?
    • How will the MediPharm and its shareholders pay for ill-advised investments in cultivation?
    • How will MediPharm avoid insolvency, given CEO Pidduck’s current strategy?
    • Is the Board pursuing a highly dilutive sale of the Company that will destroy remaining shareholder value?
    • In the case of such a transaction, how many millions of dollars of the shareholders’ money will go directly to the compensation of management?

    Apollo Capital has invested significant capital into MediPharm and nominated highly qualified director candidates who can drive the urgent change needed and propel share price over $1.00. For more information, see our strategic five-pillar plan at www.curemedipharm.com.

    Apollo urges shareholders to save their investments and vote the GOLD CARD by June 13, 2025. Shareholders are urged to NOT sign or return the green proxy cards sent by the Company.

    Contacts

    For Shareholders:
    Carson Proxy
    North American Toll-Free Phone: 1-800-530-5189
    Local or Text Message: 416-751-2066 (collect calls accepted)
    E: info@carsonproxy.com

    For Media:
    media@curemedipharm.com

    This solicitation is being made by and on behalf of the Concerned Shareholder, who, as of the date of this Circular, beneficially owns or controls, directly and indirectly through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Nobul Technologies Inc., 12,491,500 common shares of the Company (“Common Shares”), representing approximately 3% of the total Common Shares issued and outstanding, and not by the management of the Company (“Management”).

    Legal Disclosures
    Information in Support of Public Broadcast Exemption under Canadian Law
    In connection with the annual general and special meeting (the “Annual Meeting”) of shareholders of MediPharm, Apollo Capital has filed an amended and restated dissident information circular dated May 15, 2025 (the “Circular”), as amended and supplemented by an addendum to the Circular subsequently filed by the Concerned Stakeholder dated June 4, 2025 (the “Addendum” and together with the Circular, the “Amended Circular”), each in compliance with applicable corporate and securities laws. The Concerned Stakeholder has provided in, or incorporated by reference into, this press release the disclosure required under section 9.2(4) of NI 51-102 – Continuous Disclosure Obligations (“NI 51-102”) and the corresponding exemption under the Business Corporations Act (Ontario), and has filed the Amended Circular, available under MediPharm’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. The Amended Circular contains disclosure prescribed by applicable corporate law and disclosure required under section 9.2(6) of NI 51-102 in respect of the Concerned Stakeholder’s director nominees, in accordance with corporate and securities laws applicable to public broadcast solicitations. The Amended Circular is hereby incorporated by reference into this press release and is available under MediPharm’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. The registered office of the Company is 151 John Street, Barrie, Ontario, Canada L4N 2L1.
    SHAREHOLDERS OF MEDIPHARM ARE URGED TO READ THE AMENDED CIRCULAR CAREFULLY BECAUSE IT CONTAINS IMPORTANT INFORMATION. Investors and shareholders are able to obtain free copies of the Amended Circular and any amendments or supplements thereto and further proxy circulars at no charge under MediPharm’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. In addition, shareholders are also able to obtain free copies of the Amended Circular and other relevant documents by contacting the Concerned Stakeholder’s proxy solicitor, Carson Proxy Advisors Ltd. (“Carson Proxy”) at 1-800-530-5189, local (collect outside North America): 416-751-2066 or by email at info@carsonproxy.com.
    Proxies may be revoked in accordance with subsection 110(4) of the Business Corporations Act (Ontario) by a registered shareholder of Company shares: (a) by completing and signing a valid proxy bearing a later date and returning it in accordance with the instructions contained in the accompanying form of proxy; (b) by depositing an instrument in writing executed by the shareholder or by the shareholder’s attorney authorized in writing; (c) by transmitting by telephonic or electronic means a revocation that is signed by electronic signature in accordance with applicable law, as the case may be: (i) at the registered office of the Company at any time up to and including the last business day preceding the day the Annual Meeting or any adjournment or postponement of the Annual Meeting is to be held, or (ii) with the chair of the Annual Meeting on the day of the Annual Meeting or any adjournment or postponement of the Annual Meeting; or (d) in any other manner permitted by law. In addition, proxies may be revoked by a non-registered holder of Company shares at any time by written notice to the intermediary in accordance with the instructions given to the non-registered holder by its intermediary. It should be noted that revocation of proxies or voting instructions by a non-registered holder can take several days or even longer to complete and, accordingly, any such revocation should be completed well in advance of the deadline prescribed in the form of proxy or voting instruction form to ensure it is given effect in respect of the Annual Meeting.
    The costs incurred in the preparation and mailing of any circular or proxy solicitation by the Concerned Stakeholder and any other participants named herein will be borne directly and indirectly by Apollo Capital. However, to the extent permitted under applicable law, Apollo Capital intends to seek reimbursement from the Company of all expenses incurred in connection with the solicitation of proxies for the election of its director nominees at the Annual Meeting.
    This press release and any solicitation made by the Concerned Stakeholder is, or will be, as applicable, made by such parties, and not by or on behalf of the management of the Company. Proxies may be solicited by proxy circular, mail, telephone, email or other electronic means, as well as by newspaper or other media advertising and in person by managers, directors, officers and employees of the Concerned Stakeholder who will not be specifically remunerated therefor. In addition, the Concerned Stakeholder may solicit proxies by way of public broadcast, including press release, speech or publication and any other manner permitted under applicable Canadian laws, and may engage the services of one or more agents and authorize other persons to assist it in soliciting proxies on their behalf.
    Apollo Capital has entered into an agreement with Carson Proxy for solicitation and advisory services in connection with the solicitation of proxies by the Concerned Stakeholder for the Annual Meeting, for which Carson Proxy will receive a fee from Apollo Capital not to exceed $250,000, together with reimbursement for reasonable and out-of-pocket expenses. Apollo Capital has also engaged Gasthalter & Co. LP (“G&Co”) to act as communications consultant to provide the Concerned Stakeholder with certain communications, public relations and related services, for which G&Co will receive, from Apollo Capital, a minimum fee of US$75,000 in addition to a performance fee of US$250,000 in the event that the Concerned Stakeholder’s nominees make up a majority of the board of directors of MediPharm (the “Board”) following the Annual Meeting, plus excess fees, related costs and expenses. Anteris Advisors, LLC (“Anteris”) has also been retained by Apollo Capital to act as strategic consultant to provide the Concerned Stakeholder with certain activism strategy, material creation and strategic communications services, for which Anteris will receive, from Apollo Capital, a minimum fee of US$100,000 in addition to a success fee of US$100,000 in the event that one or more of the Concerned Stakeholder’s nominees are appointed or elected to the Board following the Annual Meeting or as a result of any settlement or arrangement, plus excess fees, related costs and expenses.
    No member of the Concerned Stakeholder nor any of their respective associates or affiliates has or has had any material interest, direct or indirect, in any transaction since the beginning of the Company’s last completed financial year or in any proposed transaction that has materially affected or will or would materially affect the Company or any of the Company’s affiliates. No member of the Concerned Stakeholder nor any of their respective associates or affiliates has any material interest, direct or indirect, by way of beneficial ownership of securities or otherwise, in any matter to be acted upon at the Annual Meeting, other than setting the number of directors and the election of directors to the Board.
    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains forward‐looking statements. All statements contained in this filing that are not clearly historical in nature or that necessarily depend on future events are forward‐looking, and the words “anticipate,” “believe,” “expect,” “estimate,” “plan,” and similar expressions are generally intended to identify forward‐looking statements. These statements are based on current expectations of the Concerned Stakeholder and currently available information. They are not guarantees of future performance, involve certain risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict, and are based upon assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate. All forward-looking statements contained herein are made only as of the date hereof and the Concerned Stakeholder disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any such forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that subsequently occur, or of which the Concerned Stakeholder hereafter becomes aware, except as required by applicable law.

    Hashtags: #ShareholderActivism #CorporateGovernance #InvestorProtection #Investor Alert #Investor Fraud #FinancialRegulation #CorporateCrime #FinancialCrime #HomelandSecurity #DHS #OpioidCrisis #OpioidEpidemic #OpioidLitigation #OpioidVictims #BMO #DEA #ONDCP

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: The Fraternal Order of Police Endorses the One, Big, Beautiful Bill

    Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)

    “This Big, Beautiful Bill that includes No Tax on Overtime is critically important for not just our officers, not just our retirees, but those family members that are critically dependent upon that income as well.”

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z2DKwQB3Zd4

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI China: Uzbekistan, Jordan book debut World Cup spots, China eliminated

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

    Three more Asian teams have punched their tickets to the 2026 FIFA World Cup following the latest round of qualifiers, with Uzbekistan and Jordan set to make their tournament debuts and South Korea extending its streak to 11 consecutive appearances. China, by contrast, was eliminated with one match remaining.

    Uzbekistan secured its place with a goalless draw against the United Arab Emirates in Group A. The result was enough for the central Asian side – who featured Manchester City defender Abdukodir Khusanov and Roma forward Eldor Shomurodov – to become the fifth team to reach the tournament through the qualifying pathway, joining Japan, New Zealand, Iran and Argentina.

    Qatar, the 2022 World Cup host, edged 10-man Iran 1-0 in the same group. Both Qatar and the UAE will advance to the playoffs, where two more World Cup spots will be contested.

    In Group B, Jordan made history by qualifying for its first-ever World Cup following a 3-0 win over Oman. South Korea, already a regular presence on the world stage, sealed a 2-0 away victory against Iraq to maintain its perfect run since 1986. Iraq will join the playoffs, while the final playoff place from the group will be decided between Oman and Palestine, who face each other in the final round.

    China’s slim hopes were dashed in Group C after a 1-0 defeat to Indonesia in Jakarta. Ole Romeny converted a penalty just before halftime to secure the win and send Indonesia to the playoff round, while China was left to reflect on another failed campaign.

    Bahrain also exited contention following a 2-0 loss to Saudi Arabia. In Perth, Australia claimed a 1-0 victory over Japan, positioning itself strongly to secure a direct berth from the group. The Socceroos lead Saudi Arabia by three points and have a +8 goal difference advantage heading into the final round. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto, Mullin, Graham Push Legislation to Protect National Security, Strengthen U.S. Supply Chain for Rare Earth Magnets

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), and Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) introduced legislation to strengthen the domestic supply chain for rare earth magnets, which are critical components of cell phones, computers, defense systems, and vehicles, but are almost exclusively made in China. 

    Over 15% of the world’s rare earth minerals are mined and processed at the Mountain Pass 15 miles outside Primm, Nevada, which employs approximately 600 Nevadans. However, China controls 90% of the world’s manufacturing of these materials into magnets, which are critical to national defense and the U.S. economy. Cortez Masto’s legislation will help build the U.S. supply chain for these minerals by creating a tax credit for companies processing these rare earth oxides and manufacturing the magnets necessary to power American technology.

    “If we want to combat the influence of the Chinese Communist Party and strengthen our national security, we need to stop relying on China to power our defense and energy systems,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “This bipartisan bill will create American jobs and help fill critical gaps in our domestic supply chain.”

    “Mineral security is national security. The days of fully relying on adversaries for critical resources are over,” said Senator Mullin. “Rare earth magnets, such as Neodymium (NdFeB), are essential for countless applications including missile guidance, fighter aircraft, computer hard drives, audio equipment, MRI devices, and other economically critical technology. That is why bolstering our domestic rare earth magnet manufacturing capability is key to defending our nation and ensuring we have a strong economy. I’m proud to lead in this effort, alongside my colleagues, to strengthen our supply.”

    The Rare Earth Magnet Security Act would provide a $20 per kilogram production tax credit for high performance magnets that are manufactured in the U.S. and increase the credit to $30 per kilogram for magnets manufactured in the U.S. whose components are produced, recycled, or reclaimed domestically. Companion legislation introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Congressmen Guy Reschenthaler (R-Penn.-14) and Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.-15) was included in last year’s House Select Committee on China’s report on how to counter the influence of the Chinese Communist Party.

    The full text of the legislation can be found here.

    Senator Cortez Masto has led efforts in Congress to support Nevada’s critical mineral and mining industries, supporting tens of thousands of local jobs and paving the way for Nevada to power the clean energy economy. She has consistently blocked burdensome taxes on mining and wrote important provisions of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to bolster Nevada’s critical mineral supply chain and fund battery recycling and manufacturing programs in the state.  

    MIL OSI USA News –