Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Podcast: Unlocking the fourth state of matter [plasma]

    Source: US Government research organizations

    The fourth state of matter, plasma, is involved in several aspects of how modern microelectronic components are manufactured. Jeremiah Williams, a professor at Wittenberg University and a program director at the U.S. National Science Foundation, discusses how plasmas are used in semiconductor manufacturing and how understanding plasma physics spurs industrial innovation.

    [embedded content]

    Listen to NSF Discovery Files wherever you get your podcasts.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: AG Brown files lawsuit to block federal restrictions on public benefits

    Source: Washington State News

    SEATTLE – Attorney General Nick Brown today joined a coalition of 20 other attorneys general in suing the federal administration to stop its unlawful attempt to restrict access to critical health, education, and social service programs.

    Earlier this month, in a chaotic reversal of agency policy, the administration issued notices prohibiting state safety net programs from serving all residents, regardless of immigration status. The change threatens access to critical services like Head Start, Title X family planning, adult education, mental health care, and Community Health Centers. Brown and the coalition are asking the court to halt the new federal rules and act quickly to ensure continued access to some of the nation’s most crucial social services programs.

    “Congress designed these services to be widely accessible to people in this country. But now the Trump administration wants to do an immigration check as preschoolers file into the classroom, ready to learn their ABCs,” Brown said. “These notices impose unworkable requirements on state agencies and providers that are plainly intended to damage these vital support systems and intimidate vulnerable people.” 

    Starting on July 10, the U.S. Departments of Health and Human Services (HHS), Education (ED), Labor (DOL), and Justice (DOJ) issued a coordinated set of rules and guidance documents that reinterpret the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act (PRWORA). The agencies’ new interpretation restricts states from using federal funds to provide services to individuals who cannot verify immigration status – a major shift from long-standing federal practice under both Republican and Democratic administrations. The rules took effect immediately or with minimal notice and affect not only undocumented immigrants, but also some lawful visa holders and, in practice, even U.S. citizens who lack access to formal documentation. 

    These new directives are already causing major disruptions. Because the HHS, ED, and DOL rules took effect last week, state programs are now expected to comply immediately, despite having no infrastructure in place to do so. Most providers cannot implement dramatic regulatory changes overnight and, as a result, they now face a dramatic loss of federal funding. Many crucial state programs must now institute immigration verification measures – including Head Start, Title X Clinics, community health centers, anti-poverty resources, adult education programs, and critical mental health and substance use services – but some providers warn that they will not be able to change their practices no matter how much time and money they have to do so and therefore face closure. 

    In Washington, the new guidance threatens the operation of community health clinics and providers that serve anyone who requests care for mental health or substance abuse, regardless of their ability to pay, place of residence, age, or immigration status. It creates new burdens for the state’s WorkSource centers, which allow local providers such as community colleges, school districts, non-profits, and tribal governments to deliver services such as job search assistance and help employers find workers to fill roles. Non-profit agencies that provide support to families with housing, energy assistance, training, emergency services, nutrition, employment, and financial management will be severely impacted if the new notices take effect. 

    These programs serve broad populations, including U.S. citizens, lawful residents, and new immigrants, and are not designed to collect or verify immigration status. Providers warn that the new rules could deter people from seeking help, lead to service cutoffs, and destabilize systems already stretched thin. Many of these programs, which prevent the spread of communicable disease or promote economic development, exist for the benefit and protection of the broader community, which will be harmed by the effects of the new guidance. 

    The lawsuit argues that the federal government acted unlawfully by issuing these changes without following required procedures under the Administrative Procedure Act, and by misapplying PRWORA to entire programs rather than to individual benefits. The changes also violate the Constitution’s Spending Clause by imposing new funding conditions on states without fair notice or consent. 

    The coalition is asking the court to declare the new rules unlawful, halt their implementation through preliminary and permanent injunctions, vacate the rules and restore the long-standing agency practice, and prevent the federal government from using PRWORA as a pretext to dismantle core safety net programs in the future. 

    Joining Brown in filing this lawsuit are the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaiʻi, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia.

    A copy of the complaint is available here. A copy of the motion for a preliminary injunction is available here.

    -30-

    Washington’s Attorney General serves the people and the state of Washington. As the state’s largest law firm, the Attorney General’s Office provides legal representation to every state agency, board, and commission in Washington. Additionally, the Office serves the people directly by enforcing consumer protection, civil rights, and environmental protection laws. The Office also prosecutes elder abuse, Medicaid fraud, and handles sexually violent predator cases in 38 of Washington’s 39 counties. Visit www.atg.wa.gov to learn more.

    Media Contact:

    Email: press@atg.wa.gov

    Phone: (360) 753-2727

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    Media Resource Guide & Attorney General’s Office FAQ

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: MEDIA + TALENT ALERT: The 30th session of the International Seabed Authority Assembly starts

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    TUESDAY 22 JULY — The future of deep sea mining will be a focus for world leaders this week as the International Seabed Authority (ISA) Assembly kicked in Kingston, Jamaica overnight (11pm AEST). Delegates, including from the Pacific and Australia, will discuss deep sea mining for the first time since The Metals Company (TMC) submitted the first-ever application to commercially mine the international seabed.

    During the Council meeting which ended overnight, governments responded to the application by launching an investigation into whether mining contractors, including TMC’s subsidiaries Nauru Ocean Resources Inc. (NORI) and Tonga Offshore Mining Limited (TOML), are complying with contractual obligations to act in accordance with the international legal framework. The Council has ended with a clear signal that this industry will not get international approval anytime soon. 

    Rae Bainteiti, Pacific Political Coordinator at Greenpeace Australia Pacific © Greenpeace / Bianca Vitale

    Rae Bainteiti, Pacific Political Coordinator at Greenpeace Australia Pacific, said from the ISA in Kingston: 

    “Despite industry pressure reaching fever pitch, governments have sent a clear signal that the deep sea mining industry will not get international approval any time soon.

    “As more delegations arrive to attend the ISA Assembly meeting, they’ll be met by a rising tide of voices — from scientists, Pacific communities, businesses, and concerned citizens — all saying the same thing: deep sea mining is a dangerous gamble we cannot afford. For generations, Indigenous knowledge has taught us that the ocean is not just a resource—it is a sacred, living system central to Pacific identity and survival. We have always known that disturbing the seabed threatens the balance of life in ways science is only beginning to understand. The only responsible way forward at the ISA is a global moratorium.”

    — ENDS —

    Contacts:
    Greenpeace Australia Pacific: Kimberley Bernard on [email protected] or +61 407 581 404
    Greenpeace International: Sol Gosetti on [email protected] or +34664029407 (WhatsApp)

    Images can be found here


    Greenpeace spokespeople and Pacific allies are available in Kingston and across the Pacific region on topics including:

    • The threats deep sea mining poses to Pacific people, heritage and culture
    • The dangers of a rushed mining code and the importance of decision-making being centred around Indigenous and Pacific voices
    • Deep sea mining across the Pacific, various viewpoints, history and local civil society momentum to stop deep sea mining
    • High-level analysis and reactions to announcements and developments
    • Calls for Australia and Pacific governments

    Location: Kingston, Jamaica

    From: Fiji

    Rae Bainteiti, Pacific Political Coordinator at Greenpeace Australia Pacific

    Location: Kingston, Jamaica

    From: Kiribati

    Alanna Matamaru Smith, Director of Te Ipukarea Society

    Location: Kingston, Jamaica

    From: Rarotonga, Cook Islands

    Millicent Barty, Founder of Kastom Keepers

    Location: Kingston, Jamaica

    From: Solomon Islands

    Louisa Casson, campaigner at Greenpeace International

    Location: Kingston, Jamaica

    From: London, UK

    Glenn Walker, Head of Nature at Greenpeace Australia Pacific (GMT+10)

    Location: Sydney, Australia

    Juressa Lee, Campaigner at Greenpeace Aotearoa (GMT+12)

    Location: Auckland, Aotearoa-New Zealand

    MIL OSI NGO

  • MIL-OSI USA: SEC Announces George Botic to Serve as Acting Chair of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board

    Source: Securities and Exchange Commission

    The Securities and Exchange Commission announced today that it has designated George R. Botic to serve as Acting Chair of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, effective July 23, 2025. Current PCAOB Chair Erica Y. Williams has resigned from the Board, effective July 22, 2025.

    “I thank Erica Williams for her dedicated service on the Board, and I look forward to working with George Botic as Acting Chair,” said SEC Chairman Paul Atkins.

    “I am honored to work with the SEC and the staff of the PCAOB as Acting Chair to ensure that we meet the mission established by Congress,” said Mr. Botic.

    Mr. Botic is a Certified Public Accountant and became a PCAOB Board Member on October 25, 2023. Prior to joining the Board, he served as the Director of the PCAOB’s Division of Registration and Inspections, where he oversaw the registration and inspection of all domestic and foreign accounting firms that audit public companies whose securities trade in the U.S., as well as all broker-dealer audits. He previously served in various roles at the PCAOB, including as its Director of the Office of International Affairs, Special Advisor to former Chairperson James R. Doty, and Deputy Director of the Registration and Inspections Division. Earlier in his career, Mr. Botic was a Senior Manager with PricewaterhouseCoopers. He is a graduate of Shepherd University and received a Master of Accountancy from Virginia Tech.

    The PCAOB was established by the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and oversees the audits of the financial statements of public companies, brokers, and dealers through registration, standard setting, inspection, and disciplinary programs. Under the Act, the Commission selects members and the Chairperson of the Board.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Engineer Pleads Guilty to Stealing for Chinese Government’s Benefit Trade Secret Technology Designed for Missile Launch and Detection

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    A Santa Clara County man and former engineer at a Southern California company pleaded guilty today to stealing trade secret technologies developed for use by the U.S. government to detect nuclear missile launches, track ballistic and hypersonic missiles, and to allow U.S. fighter planes to detect and evade heat-seeking missiles.

    Chenguang Gong, 59, of San Jose, pleaded guilty to one count of theft of trade secrets. He remains free on $1.75 million bond.

    According to his plea agreement, Gong – a dual citizen of the United States and China – transferred more than 3,600 files from a Los Angeles-area research and development company where he worked – identified in court documents as the victim company – to personal storage devices during his brief tenure with the company last year.

    The files Gong transferred include blueprints for sophisticated infrared sensors designed for use in space-based systems to detect nuclear missile launches and track ballistic and hypersonic missiles, as well as blueprints for sensors designed to enable U.S. military aircraft to detect incoming heat-seeking missiles and take countermeasures, including by jamming the missiles’ infrared tracking ability. Some of these files were later found on storage devices seized from Gong’s temporary residence in Thousand Oaks.

    In January 2023, the victim company hired Gong as an application-specific integrated circuit design manager responsible for the design, development and verification of its infrared sensors. Beginning on approximately March 30, 2023, and continuing until his termination on April 26, 2023, Gong transferred thousands of files from his work laptop to three personal storage devices, including more than 1,800 files after he had accepted a job at one of the victim company’s main competitors.

    Many of the files Gong transferred contained proprietary and trade secret information related to the development and design of a readout integrated circuit that allows space-based systems to detect missile launches and track ballistic and hypersonic missiles and a readout integrated circuit that allows aircraft to track incoming threats in low visibility environments.

    Gong also transferred files containing trade secrets relating to the development of “next generation” sensors capable of detecting low observable targets while demonstrating increased survivability in space, as well as the blueprints for the mechanical assemblies used to house and cryogenically cool the victim company’s sensors. This information was among the victim company’s most important trade secrets that are worth hundreds of millions of dollars. Many of the files had been marked “[VICTIM COMPANY] PROPRIETARY,” “FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY,” “PROPRIETARY INFORMATION,” and “EXPORT CONTROLLED.”

    Law enforcement also discovered that, between approximately 2014 and 2022, while employed at several major technology companies in the United States, Gong submitted numerous applications to ‘Talent Programs’ administered by the People’s Republic of China (PRC). The PRC government has established these talent programs as a means to identify individuals who have expert skills, abilities, and knowledge of advanced sciences and technologies in order to access and utilize those skills and knowledge in transforming the PRC’s economy, including its military capabilities.

    In 2014, while employed at a U.S. information technology company headquartered in Dallas, Gong sent a business proposal to a contact at a high-tech research institute in China focused on both military and civilian products. In his proposal, translated from Chinese, Gong described a plan to produce high-performance analog-to-digital converters like those produced by his employer. In another Talent Program application from September 2020, Gong proposed to develop “low light/night vision” image sensors for use in military night vision goggles and civilian applications. Gong’s proposal included a video presentation that contained the model number of a sensor developed by an international defense, aerospace, and security company where Gong worked from 2015 to 2019.

    Gong travelled to China several times to seek Talent Program funding in order to develop sophisticated analog-to-digital converters. In his Talent Program applications, Gong underscored that the high-performance analog-to-digital converters he proposed to develop in China had military applications, explaining that they “directly determine the accuracy and range of radar systems” and that “[m]issile navigation systems also often use radar front-end systems.” In a 2019 email, translated from Chinese, Gong remarked that he “took a risk” by traveling to China to participate in the Talent Programs “because [he] worked for…an American military industry company” and thought he could “do something” to contribute to China’s “high-end military integrated circuits.”

    According to his plea agreement, the intended economic loss from Gong’s criminal conduct exceeds $3.5 million.

    U.S. District Judge John F. Walter scheduled sentencing for Sept. 29, at which time Gong faces a statutory maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.

    The FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office through the Counterintelligence Task Force in partnership with the State Department’s Diplomatic Security Service and Homeland Security Investigations is investigating this matter. The FBI’s San Francisco Field Office and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California also provided substantial assistance.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys David C. Lachman and Nisha Chandran for the Central District of California and Trial Attorney Brendan Geary of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: FALQs: 110 Years of the Norwegian Castbergian Child Laws

    Source: US Global Legal Monitor

    This post is part of our Frequently Asked Legal Questions series. 

    This year marks the 110th anniversary of the adoption of six laws on children’s rights in Norway, which became known as the “Castbergian Child Acts” (Castbergske barnelovene) and regulate the relationship between parent and child, in particular strengthening children’s rights over their unwed fathers. The laws are part of UNESCO ‘s Memory of the World.

    The laws are

    Why are they called the Castbergian Child Laws?

    The name of the child laws is derived from Johan Castberg, the President of the Odelsting (the lower chamber of the then two chambers of Norwegian Parliament) who presented the bill in the Norwegian Parliament, and who has been called the father of the Castbergian laws. He has himself called Katti Anker Møller the mother of the child’s act for her advocacy for women’s and children’s rights.

    In addition to the Norwegian child laws, Johan Castberg also lent his name to Norway’s northernmost oil field in the Barents Sea.

    What are the Castbergian Laws?

    As mentioned above, the laws are six laws or amendments to laws that specify rights of the child, in particular in relation to its parents. The laws are described in one combined bill, the Odelstings Proposition Nr. 5 1914 (Ot. Prp. nr 5 (1914)). The bill starts with the following sentence:

    “The hygienic, social, and financial circumstances under which a person is born and raised during their first years of life determine their later development. [These circumstances] to a great extent determine whether the child will become a vigorous individual and a useful member of society.” (Ot. Prp. 5, 1914 at 1, all translations by author.)

    It later continues by explaining the failures of the current laws related to children and paternity at the time.

    “In one area, the society has not, however, yet reached the recognition of the child’s natural rights over the parent. Namely, this applies to children born outside of marriage. Our legislation is still built on the provocative and unnatural fiction, that such a child only has a mother, legally it does not have a father. This applies even when there is no doubt who the father is. The law deprives also in this instance the child of [its natural] child’s right over the father.” (Ot. Prp. 5, 1914 at 2.)

    The bill then goes on to describe the inconsistency of the law, which gives the child all its right over the mother, both in terms of a right to support, name, and inheritance from the mother’s relatives, but none over the father, noting that

     “[r]esponsibility, duty, burden are placed on her – so much heavier because the father in accordance with the law is not carrying his share. This discrepancy between the man and the woman’s responsibility is so much more unjust because the woman is the suffering party and in general the weaker party. The birth of a child disrupts her organism, creates a complete upheaval in her social, physical and economic life, and lessens for a shorter or longer period of time, her ability to work and demands her energies to care for the child. The discrepancy between man’s and woman’s responsibilities is much more conspicuous as it is due to legislation in which women have had no part, a legislation only given by men. This is not only an injustice to the mother and the child, but a demoralizing system, because it releases the man from his natural responsibility and therefore tempts him to carelessness in a relationship that should be the most serious and responsible in a person’s life; that of bringing another human being into the world.” (Id. at 2.)

    The law was thus not intended just to protect the child, but to also solve what Castberg saw as an inherent unfairness between the sexes. Women had gained the right to vote in 1913, through an amendment to the constitution, and the first woman to be elected to parliament was elected in 1921.

    What was the reason for the change in law?

    While the term “illegitimate” child was removed from the law that specified how children born outside of marriage were to be treated before 1915, there were still large differences associated with being born to married or unwed parents under Norwegian law in 1915, ranging from different name rights, to the right to inheritance, and the right to receive monetary support from the father.

    The main reason Castberg invoked for changing the laws was a publication (Socialstatistik, V, Om Børn, fødte udenfor Ægteskab), from the Norwegian Statics Bureau (Statistics Norway) that showed that the rate of infanticide was between twice and three times as prevalent among children born to unwed parents as among children born to wed parents. This, argued Castberg, was because the mother and child born out of wedlock were still stigmatized and that unmarried mothers had less resources to tend to their child than wed mothers. (Ot. Prp. 5, 1914 at 2.)

    How was paternity established?

    These laws set up certain procedures for paternity determination that carry over into our day. The Castbergian laws required that the mother inform the treating midwife who the father was at minimum three months before the child was born. (6 § Lov om barn hvis forældre ikke harindgaat egteskap med hverandre.) Persons familiar with the possible paternity were required to testify and falsely accusing a man of being the father of one’s child was subject to imprisonment for up to two years. (Id.) Children were no longer admitted to the National Population Registry with the designation “father unknown.”

    Norwegian mothers continue to be required to inform their midwives who the father is or may be, and the state has an obligation to find out in cases where the mother does not know or refuses to tell. (1 § Barnelova.)

    What if the father denied paternity?

    The Castbergian laws also removed a previous legal provision by which the father could solemnly swear that he was not the father and thereby release himself of paternity. Under the Castbergian laws, the courts were now free to determine who was more trustworthy, the mother or the contesting father. (10 § Lov om barn hvis forældre ikke harindgaat egteskap med hverandre.) Today, a DNA-test can resolve the issue. (4 § Barnelova.)

    What were other notable changes?

    The perhaps most notable changes at the time were that  children born in and outside of wedlock were given the same rights pertaining to inheritance from the father and father’s family (3 § Arveloven; Ot. Prp. nr. 5, 1914 at 76-78) and the child also had a right to carry his or her father’s surname or his or her mother’s. ( 1§ Lov om barn hvis forældre ikke har indgaat egteskap med hverandre.) The father also had a duty to pay support to the child, and support to the mother for breastfeeding the child the first nine months (opamningsbidrag). (Id. 18 §.) If he was not able, the municipality would pay the mother. The state (through the local bidragsfogd) now also had a duty to collect the payment from the father, including by garnishing wages. (Id. 23-25 §§.)

    Where can I find rules on paternity today?

    Paternity and rules on co-mothers (the role of a same-sex partner to the birthing mother) are regulated in the Children’s Act. (3-4 §§ Lov om barn og foreldre (barnelova)(LOV 1981-04-8-7).) A person wishing to register paternity or co-motherhood can do so at the Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration (NAV).

    Additional Resources

    The laws themselves are found in the Norwegian Gazette, Norsk Lovtidende, for the year 1915, which is part of the Law Library collection for Norway.

    Library of Congress Collection Holdings authored by Johan Castberg

    Additional Law Library of Congress Online resources on Norway

    Additional Law Library of Congress Online resources on Child law

    If you have a question regarding laws of Norway or on the topic of child law, you can also submit it using the Ask a Librarian form on our website.


    Subscribe to In Custodia Legis – it’s free! – to receive interesting posts drawn from the Law Library of Congress’s vast collections and our staff’s expertise in U.S., foreign, and international law.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom calls for immediate withdrawal of all soldiers in Los Angeles

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Jul 21, 2025

    What you need to know: Governor Gavin Newsom calls on the President to send every soldier home now – this dangerous militarization must end.

    Los Angeles, CaliforniaAs pressure continues mounting for the President to end the unlawful deployment of soldiers in Los Angeles, with the remaining Marines in the area withdrawing, 2,000 federalized National Guard members still remain – away from their families, communities and civilian jobs as doctors, police, and teachers.

    The women and men of the California National Guard deserve more than to continue serving as puppets in Trump and Stephen Miller’s performative political theater. There was never a need for the military to deploy against civilians in Los Angeles. The damage is done, however. We, again, call upon them to do the right thing and end the militarization once and for all.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    End the militarization now

    For over a month, about 4,000 National Guard members have been serving as political pawns for the President in Los Angeles, pulled away from their families, communities, and civilian jobs. While half are now demobilizing and the deployed Marines are being sent home, many remain without a clear mission, direction, or a timeline for returning to their communities. California urges Trump and the Department of Defense to end this theatrical deployment and send all remaining guardsmembers home immediately.

    Community leaders, public officials, veterans and others agree – the federal government’s actions in California not only have a chilling effect on the state’s society and economy, but also continue to undermine the valuable contributions from members of the military while in and out of uniform. 

    Republican and Democratic former governors agree—Trump’s federalization violates the critical balance between state and federal government. Recently, a bipartisan group of 25 former governors filed a brief in support of Newsom v. Trump, urging the court to enforce state sovereignty and block the unprecedented federalization of the National Guard. 

    Police off the streets, teachers out of classrooms

    Of the over 4,000 California National Guard members sent to Los Angeles under Trump’s order, the California National Guard estimates that their servicemembers have been pulled from essential civilian duties such as medical and first responders, service workers, building trades contractors, law enforcement personnel, corrections officers, civil service and government workers, technology specialists, educators and teachers, and agriculture workers.

    Drugs arriving at the border, fewer soldiers to stop them

    Typically, under the Governor’s command, nearly 450 servicemembers are deployed statewide, including at ports of entry, to combat transnational criminal organizations and seize illegal narcotics. CalGuard’s servicemembers dedicated to the state’s Counterdrug Task Force have been reassigned by President Trump to militarize Los Angeles. The consequences are dire – CalGuard’s efforts help ensure the public safety of communities statewide.

    High-ranking U.S. military officials agree

    Retired four-star admirals and generals and former secretaries of the Army and Navy filed another amicus brief outlining the grave risks of Trump’s illegal takeover of the CalGuard. Several veterans and veteran rights’ groups came together to decry Trump’s militarization of California. 

    Economic impact of cruel immigration policy

    Governor Newsom recently met with local restaurant owners in the City of Bell and faith leaders in Downey to discuss the economic impact these indiscriminate immigration actions have had on their small business.

    Trump’s actions have a ripple effect – the state’s economy is likely to contract later this year due to fallout from global tariffs and immigration raids in Los Angeles and other cities that have rattled key sectors, including construction, hospitality, and agriculture, according to a UCLA Anderson forecast. Mass arrests, detentions and deportations in California could slash $275 billion from the state’s economy and eliminate $23 billion in annual tax revenue. The loss of immigrant workers, undocumented and those losing lawful status under the Trump administration, would delay projects (including rebuilding Los Angeles after the wildfires), reduce food supply, and drive up costs. Undocumented immigrants contributed $8.5 billion in state and local taxes in 2022 — a number that would rise to $10.3 billion if these taxpayers could apply to work lawfully.

    Recent news

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom has approved the prepositioning of firefighting resources in Sierra and Plumas counties in response to critical fire weather conditions forecasted to impact Northern California starting Sunday, July 20, through Tuesday, July 22,…

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom and Acting Governor Eleni Kounalakis issued the following statement regarding the deaths of Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Detectives Joshua Kelley-Eklund, Victor Lemus, and William Osborn:“Detectives Kelley-Eklund,…

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the deployment of 3 additional Urban Search and Rescue Team (US&R) members to Texas to assist with ongoing response efforts related to severe flooding impacts.  A total of 42 California US&R members are…

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: Yorkville Acquisition Corp. Announces the Separate Trading of its Class A Ordinary Shares and Warrants, Commencing on or about July 25, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Mountainside, NJ, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Yorkville Acquisition Corp. (Nasdaq: YORKU) (the “Company”) announced that holders of the units sold in the Company’s initial public offering of 17,250,000 units, which includes 2,250,000 units issued pursuant to the exercise by the underwriters of their overallotment option, completed on June 30, 2025 (the “Offering”), may elect to separately trade the Class A ordinary shares and warrants included in the units commencing on or about July 25, 2025. Any units not separated will continue to trade on The Nasdaq Global Market under the symbol “YORKU”, and each of the Class A ordinary shares and warrants will separately trade on The Nasdaq Global Market under the symbols “YORK” and “YORKW,” respectively. Holders of units will need to have their brokers contact Continental Stock Transfer & Trust Company, the Company’s transfer agent, in order to separate the units into Class A ordinary shares and warrants.

    A registration statement relating to the securities was declared effective on June 26, 2025 in accordance with Section 8(a) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

    Cautionary Note Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements,” including with respect to the anticipated date that the Class A ordinary shares and warrants may begin to trade separately and the ability for those units not separated to continue to trade on Nasdaq. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ from the forward-looking statements. The Company expressly disclaims any obligations or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in the Company’s expectations with respect thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any statement is based. No assurance can be given that the net proceeds of the offering will be used as indicated. Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous conditions, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including those set forth in the Risk Factors section of the registration statement and related prospectus filed in connection with the initial public offering with the SEC. Copies are available on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov.

    About Yorkville Acquisition Corp.

    The Company is a blank check company incorporated in the Cayman Islands as an exempted company incorporated for the purpose of effecting a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization, or similar business combination with one or more businesses. The Company has not selected any specific business combination target and has not, nor has anyone on its behalf, engaged in any substantive discussions, directly or indirectly, with any business combination target with respect to an initial business combination. While the Company may pursue a business combination target in any business or industry, it intends to focus its search for businesses at the intersection of media, technology, and entertainment.

    Contact

    Yorkville Acquisition Corp.
    1012 Springfield Avenue
    Mountainside, New Jersey 07092 

    Kevin McGurn
    Chief Executive Officer
    Email: kjmcgurn@gmail.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Canada: More primary care on the way for rural Alberta

    Alberta’s government is committed to ensuring Albertans receive the care they need when and where they need it. To strengthen rural health care, grants under two programs have been awarded. These grants support medical resident physicians training in rural and remote communities and help primary care clinics across rural Alberta grow their teams.

    The initiatives include a $16-million pilot bursary program that supports 74 family medicine residents expected to begin practising in rural Alberta between now and July 2027. At the same time, the Rural Team Recruitment Grant will provide $6 million over two years to help clinics hire additional health professionals – such as nurses, pharmacists and physiotherapists – expand care teams and improve access.

    “This is a great example of how we’re delivering real improvements in primary health care. Our bursary program will help bring more family doctors to rural communities, and the team-based care grants mean Albertans will have better access to health professionals who can support their needs. Physicians are choosing to practise in Alberta in record numbers, especially family doctors, and we’re working to make sure they increase access for patients in rural Alberta as well as in the cities.”

    Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Primary and Preventative Health Services

    The Rural Team Recruitment Grant helps clinics and community organizations increase their capacity by hiring non-physician health professionals. These multidisciplinary teams significantly improve access to primary care by ensuring a range of health services are available locally.

    In the first round of funding, 29 clinics across the province will receive support. This includes clinics in Consort, Drumheller, Stettler, Crowsnest Pass, Cold Lake, Grande Cache, Peace River, Delburne, Drayton Valley, Barrhead and Bashaw. Approximately 52 new full-time health professionals are expected to be hired, with a second intake for the grant program opening soon.

    “The Rural Team Recruitment Grant is a meaningful step forward for health care in rural Alberta. When clinics can hire more team members, people get access to the care they need faster and closer to home.”

    Ron Wiebe, parliamentary secretary for rural health (north)

    The Rural and Remote Family Medicine Resident Physician Bursary Pilot Program is helping attract and retain doctors in Alberta’s rural and remote communities. It provides bursaries of $125,000 for rural placements and $200,000 for remote placements to residents who commit to working in eligible communities after completing their training.

    Bursaries are available to medical students from any Canadian university who have matched to a family medicine residency program at the University of Alberta or the University of Calgary. Residents can apply at any point during their training. Applications are being accepted until early 2026 or until all funding is committed.

    Resident physicians are more likely to stay and practise in the communities where they complete their residency, making this program a key step toward building sustainable, long-term access to primary care in rural and remote areas.

    “This bursary is an investment in Alberta’s future. It gives resident physicians the support they need while helping rural and remote communities attract and keep family doctors.”

    Justin Wright, parliamentary secretary for rural health (south)

    “This bursary is a significant step in strengthening retention in rural and remote family medicine practice. Resident physicians are the future of our physician workforce; fair and competitive retention initiatives will ensure all Albertans have access to the high-quality health care they deserve.”

    Dr. Sia Zare-Zadeh, president, Professional Association of Resident Physicians of Alberta (PARA)

    Quick facts

    • These programs are key components of the Rural Health Action Plan and align with the Modernizing Alberta’s Primary Care System (MAPS) report.
    • Funding is through the Canada-Alberta agreement to improve health care, including in rural and remote areas.

    Related information

    • Modernizing Alberta’s Primary Health Care System (MAPS)
    • Primary health care grants
    • Rural and Remote Family Medicine Resident Physician Bursary
    • Rural Health Action Plan

    Related news

    • Strengthening primary health care across Alberta (Nov. 5, 2024)
    • Leading primary care into the future (Oct. 15, 2024)
    • Improving health care in rural and remote Alberta (Oct. 3, 2024
    • Strengthening health care: Improving access for all (Oct. 18, 2023)

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Directives issued to get more homes built in Oak Bay, West Vancouver

    Ministerial directives have been issued to the districts of Oak Bay and West Vancouver to continue helping the communities improve local processes and build more homes people need.

    This year, advisers were appointed in the districts of Oak Bay and West Vancouver to provide recommendations for what these councils can do to deliver more homes for people faster and improve affordability in their communities. Oak Bay and West Vancouver are two of the most unaffordable places in British Columbia.

    The Province consulted with the districts, which had 30 days to provide feedback about the proposed ministerial directives.

    Feedback from both districts helped inform the final directives, and they align with many current council initiatives.

    The directives to the District of Oak Bay are it must:

    1. amend its Development Application Procedures Bylaw to delegate minor development variance permits to municipal staff by Dec. 31, 2025; and
    2. amend its Parking Facilities Bylaw for sites containing multiple units, to a minimum of one parking stall per unit where the bylaw currently requires a minimum of more than one parking stall per unit, by Dec. 31, 2025.

    Additionally, Oak Bay must provide updates on work toward:

    • meeting the Dec. 31, 2025, deadline for updating its official community plan, with a focus on housing; and
    • amending its Building and Plumbing Bylaw in relation to blasting activities, in consultation with the development community.

    The directives to the District of West Vancouver are it must:

    1. amend its Official Community Plan Bylaw to increase density in the Park Royal-Taylor Way area by Dec. 31, 2025. The amendments must provide development regulations and an accompanying schedule that defines the area and provides for the minimum required densities;
    2. amend its Official Community Plan Bylaw to provide for increased density in the single-family and duplex prescribed areas adjacent to Ambleside and Dundarave, by Dec. 31, 2025; and
    3. adopt the proposed Ambleside Centre Local Area Plan by Dec. 31, 2025.

    Additionally, West Vancouver must:

    • identify in future annual progress reporting the type of development applications and number of housing units considered and rejected under the Preliminary Development Proposal and Public Consultation Policy.

    Housing targets have delivered 16,130 net-new homes built across the first 30 priority municipalities since the legislation was passed in 2023. 

    Through a historic $19-billion investment, the Province has delivered 93,250 homes in B.C. since 2017, including more than 7,200 units in Greater Victoria and nearly 400 units in West Vancouver.

    Quick Facts: 

    • West Vancouver delivered 58 of its 220 net-new units Year 1 housing target.
    • Oak Bay delivered 16 of its 56 net-new units Year 1 housing target.

    Learn More:

    To view the directive letter to Oak Bay, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/OakBay_Murdoch_Signed_Final.pdf

    To view the directive letter to West Vancouver, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/WestVan_Sager_Signed.pdf

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Saskatchewan and Prince Edward Island Breaking Down Trade Barriers

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on July 21, 2025

    Provinces build economic resilience through interprovincial trade agreement.

    Today, Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe and Prince Edward Island Premier Rob Lantz signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on the removal of trade barriers across the two jurisdictions.

    “Saskatchewan is standing strong amidst the trade challenges we are currently facing,” Moe said. “Our province remains committed to deepening interprovincial collaboration and further enhancing trade, investment and labour mobility, so that we can continue to build a strong economy that delivers for the people of Saskatchewan. Today’s MOU between Saskatchewan and Prince Edward Island is just one more way we are strengthening economic ties across the country.”  

    This MOU includes commitments to facilitate mutual recognition, and a framework for direct-to-consumer (DTC) alcohol sales between the two jurisdictions. It aims to boost interprovincial labour mobility and investment while strengthening public safety and maintaining the role of crown corporations.  

    “Saskatchewan and PEI understand that when provinces work together, the entire country benefits,” Lantz said. “This agreement is about building trust, creating opportunity and making it easier for people and businesses to thrive no matter where they are located.”  

    The total value of interprovincial trade between Saskatchewan and PEI was $44.25 million in 2021.

    The Government of Saskatchewan continues to demonstrate leadership in reducing internal barriers, advocating for free and fair trade. Last week, Saskatchewan called on all provinces and territories to join the New West Partnership Trade Agreement. This agreement represents Canada’s largest barrier-free interprovincial market, with an economic region of over 11 million Canadians and a combined GDP exceeding $818 billion. Other recent progress includes the signing of an MOU with Ontario to remove trade barriers across the two jurisdictions.

    The province continues to take part in the Committee on Internal Trade (CIT), which includes enhancing the Canadian Free Trade Agreement (CFTA), reducing regulatory and administrative burdens to interprovincial trade and facilitating labour mobility.

    On July 8, CIT announced significant progress, including:

    • Reducing party-specific exceptions under the CFTA by a further 30 per cent.
    • Concluding negotiations of the financial services chapter.
    • Advancing mutual recognition through a pilot project in the trucking sector and negotiating towards a mutual recognition agreement on the sale of goods.  
    • Cross-Canada commitment to a 30-day service standard for processing labour mobility applications.
    • A DTC MOU, co-led by Saskatchewan, involving ten jurisdictions across Canada to support consumers being able to order their favourite Canadian wine, spirit, beer or other alcoholic beverage, directly from the producer, for personal consumption.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Carbajal Hosts House Agriculture Committee’s Top Democrat in Santa Barbara, Carpinteria

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Salud Carbajal (CA-24)

    On July 19th, U.S. Representative Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24), a member of the House Agriculture Committee, hosted the Committee’s Ranking Member Angie Craig (D-MN-02) in Santa Barbara and Carpinteria. The lawmakers organized roundtable discussions with local farmers, agriculture groups, community associations, and government officials to discuss wildfire prevention, federal support for specialty crops, farm automation, and more. Download photos here.

    “I was honored to welcome Ranking Member Craig to the Central Coast for productive conversations with our local agricultural community and stakeholders focused on wildfire prevention,” said Rep. Carbajal. “The Central Coast is one of our nation’s agricultural powerhouses, but it’s not immune to the challenges posed by climate change and macroeconomic conditions. That’s why Ranking Member Craig and I held a series of roundtable discussions with local farmers, agriculture groups, community associations, and government officials. We talked about collaborative solutions for mitigating wildfires and other environmental threats, while exploring opportunities for the federal government to help ensure Central Coast agriculture remains globally competitive.”

    “I thank Representative Carbajal for inviting me to California’s 24th Congressional District to meet with stakeholders from across the forest management and specialty crop sectors. It is always valuable to hear directly from specialty crop producers, and it was particularly eye-opening to learn from the experiences of wildfire experts on the ground – as firefighters battle three wildfires burning in northern Minnesota. I will lean on their insights as we continue searching for a path forward for the farmers left behind by the Republican budget. The conversations I had with folks today reflected an urgent need for congressional oversight of the USDA – whose mass layoffs have left communities vulnerable as we enter peak wildfire season – and investments in programs that support the specialty crop farmers who feed our families,” said Ranking Member Angie Craig.

    Carbajal and Craig held their first roundtable at the Santa Barbara Botanical Gardens, where they discussed wildfire prevention for the Los Padres National Forest and surrounding communities. The group explored proactive measures — such as fuels management, community education, interagency coordination, and infrastructure resilience — to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires. Policies and partnerships that safeguard lives, property, and landscapes along the Los Padres forest boundary and beyond are critical. 

    The roundtable’s participants included representatives from: the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, Los Padres National Forest, Santa Barbara County Fire Department, Santa Barbara City Fire, Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors, Santa Barbara Fire Safe Council, Mission Canyon Association, Montecito Association, Cal Poly Wildfire, Los Padres Forest Watch, and Project for Resilient Communities.

    The second roundtable was held at Reiter’s Peak-Flynn Ranch in Carpinteria, where the group discussed the unique nature of Central Coast agriculture, research in mechanization, the federal specialty crop block grant program, labor shortages, trade, and more. 

    The roundtable’s participants included representatives from: Reiter Affiliated Companies, Santa Barbara County Flower & Nursery Growers Association, California Avocado Commission, Grower-Shipper Association of Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties, Santa Barbara County Agricultural Advisory Committee, California Farm Bureau, Santa Barbara County Farm Bureau, Ventura County Farm Bureau, and Santa Barbara County Agricultural Commissioner.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: PHOTOS: Senator Peters Attends Ceremony Rededicating the Mt. Clemens Post Office as the “Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Jefferson Post Office”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters

    MT. CLEMENS, MI – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) attended a ceremony to rededicate the Mt. Clemens Post Office as the “Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Jefferson Post Office.” In 2024, Peters led legislation signed into law dedicating the post office in Lt. Col. Jefferson’s name to recognize his service as a member of the famous Tuskegee Airmen of the U.S. Army Air Forces with the 332nd Fighter Group during World War II, a U.S. Postal Service letter carrier, and an educator with Detroit Public Schools.

    “Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Jefferson served his country with distinction with the Tuskegee Airmen, and cemented himself in local history as a dedicated educator and letter carrier,” said Senator Peters. “I was proud to lead legislation dedicating the Mount Clemens post office in his name, helping to ensure his life and legacy are remembered for future generations.”

    “We honor Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Jefferson by dedicating the Mt. Clemens Post Office building for his dedicated service to his country as one of the Tuskegee Airmen,” said Rick Moreton, USPS District Manager, Michigan One. “Dedicating the plaque, which will be placed in the post office lobby, we have an obligation in the Postal Service to preserve his memory for the community, his students, his family and those that were personally touched by Alexander Jefferson’s sacrifice.”

    Below are photos of Senator Peters at today’s ceremony alongside members of Lt. Col. Jefferson’s family, representatives of the Detroit Chapter of Tuskegee Airmen, and local elected officials.

    Alexander Jefferson was born in Detroit, Michigan in 1921. Jefferson completed combat training at Selfridge Field in Mount Clemens and pilot training at the Tuskegee Army Airfield. He served in the military during World War II. During his time with the Tuskegee Airmen, Jefferson was shot down in France and captured by Nazi ground troops. He was a prisoner of war in German-occupied Poland before he was freed by General George Patton’s U.S. Third Army. Jefferson returned to Michigan, where he became a U.S. Postal Service letter carrier, earned a teaching certificate, and obtained a master’s degree in education from Wayne State University. He was discharged from active duty in 1947 and retired from the Reserves in 1969 with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

    Jefferson taught elementary school science in Detroit, was appointed assistant principal, and retired in 1979 after 31 years of service to Detroit Public Schools. In 2016, Senator Peters helped honor Jefferson at a ceremony for France’s Knight of the Legion of Honor Medal. This award is the highest honor France bestows on people who have carried out actions of great value to their nation.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Visits Hardwick, Burke to Discuss Flood Recovery and FEMA Reform 

    US Senate News:

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

    BURKE, VT—U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) today met with flood-impacted Vermonters and community leaders in northern Vermont. Senator Welch also held a Listening Session in Hardwick last week.  
    “Hardwick and Burke know all too well—climate change is here, and we need to empower small towns with the tools and resources they need to recover. My new bill, the Disaster AID Act, will help cut through red tape and improve the disaster recovery process,” said Senator Welch. “The input I received from Vermont communities about their experience with FEMA shaped this bill, and am committed to making Washington work better for Vermont.”  
    View photos here and on Senator Welch’s website:  

    Senator Welch hosts a Listening Session in Hardwick on Monday, July 14 

     Senator Welch hosts a Listening Session in Burke on Monday, July 21 
    West Burke, as well as Sutton and Lyndon, were hit by more flash flooding in 2025 on the anniversary of the 2023 and 2024 floods. Senator Welch’s visits to Hardwick and Burke follow visits to flood-impacted communities across Vermont, including Killington, Ludlow, Weston, Barre, and Montpelier.  
    This month, Senator Welch introduced the Disaster Assistance Improvement and Decentralization (AID) Act. Senator Welch’s bill will cut red tape and empower state and local governments to access recovery assistance when it is needed. The bill will support hazard mitigation efforts, make the delivery of disaster aid more efficient and effective, provide technical assistance to small towns and communities impacted by natural disasters, and block the White House from withholding funding for disaster response. 
    Last week, Senator Welch called for the resignation of U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, citing Secretary Noem’s mishandling of FEMA and record of undermining FEMA’s work, as well as her handling of President Trump’s cruel and illegal mass deportation campaign. 

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Warner Sound the Alarm on Hospital Cybersecurity Risks Following Republican Medicaid Cuts

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner D-Va. and Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Ron Wyden, D-Ore. called for the Trump administration to share its plan to prevent cyberattacks on rural hospitals following the largest health care cuts in American history in the Republican budget bill. 

    “Trumpcare will harm the cybersecurity resiliency of rural and small hospitals just as this Administration has chosen to gut cybersecurity operations at HHS,” Wyden and Warner wrote. “As rural and small hospitals confront even lower operating margins due to Republican health care cuts, they will be less likely to prioritize spending on cybersecurity infrastructure. The lack of federal oversight and resources, coupled with historic cuts to Medicaid and the ACA, only serve to increase rural and small hospitals’ cybersecurity vulnerabilities.” 

    The letter, sent to Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Mehmet Oz, calls on the Administration to share its plans to help small and rural hospitals meet federal cybersecurity standards, as well as its plan to use the so-called “rural health transformation program” to fund cybersecurity improvements – a fund that is dwarfed by more than $1 trillion in cuts to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act (ACA)  under Trumpcare. 

    Hospitals, particularly smaller facilities and those in rural areas, are a prime target for cyber criminals. Hospitals are also very likely to pay a ransom in order to maintain the continuity of health care given the lack of nearby providers, especially emergency services and procedures, and their top priority is protecting the health and well-being of patients they serve.

    Last year, Wyden and Warner introduced legislation to strengthen federal cybersecurity standards across the health care system. Independent analysis has confirmed that over 330 rural hospitals are at risk of deep financial hardship or even closure due to Trumpcare’s cuts to Medicaid, forcing facilities into impossible choices to stay open and continue serving their community.

    The full letter is here.

    A web version of this release is here.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Warner Sound the Alarm on Hospital Cybersecurity Risks Following Republican Medicaid Cuts

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner D-Va. and Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Ron Wyden, D-Ore. called for the Trump administration to share its plan to prevent cyberattacks on rural hospitals following the largest health care cuts in American history in the Republican budget bill. 

    “Trumpcare will harm the cybersecurity resiliency of rural and small hospitals just as this Administration has chosen to gut cybersecurity operations at HHS,” Wyden and Warner wrote. “As rural and small hospitals confront even lower operating margins due to Republican health care cuts, they will be less likely to prioritize spending on cybersecurity infrastructure. The lack of federal oversight and resources, coupled with historic cuts to Medicaid and the ACA, only serve to increase rural and small hospitals’ cybersecurity vulnerabilities.” 

    The letter, sent to Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Mehmet Oz, calls on the Administration to share its plans to help small and rural hospitals meet federal cybersecurity standards, as well as its plan to use the so-called “rural health transformation program” to fund cybersecurity improvements – a fund that is dwarfed by more than $1 trillion in cuts to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act (ACA)  under Trumpcare. 

    Hospitals, particularly smaller facilities and those in rural areas, are a prime target for cyber criminals. Hospitals are also very likely to pay a ransom in order to maintain the continuity of health care given the lack of nearby providers, especially emergency services and procedures, and their top priority is protecting the health and well-being of patients they serve.

    Last year, Wyden and Warner introduced legislation to strengthen federal cybersecurity standards across the health care system. Independent analysis has confirmed that over 330 rural hospitals are at risk of deep financial hardship or even closure due to Trumpcare’s cuts to Medicaid, forcing facilities into impossible choices to stay open and continue serving their community.

    The full letter is here.

    A web version of this release is here.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murray, Blumenthal Put VA Secretary Collins on Blast for His Lack of Transparency and Accountability

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Democrats also launch new website to track Trump VA’s responsiveness to oversight letters from Congress

    Washington, D.C. – In a letter to Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Doug Collins, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee and a senior member and former Chair of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, and Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee Ranking Member Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), called out Secretary Collins for his failure to be transparent and accountable to veterans, Congress, and American taxpayers around his cuts and recent policy changes at VA.

    “Congress and this Administration should be working together to provide the best possible care, benefits and services for our nation’s veterans and their families, and your failure to be transparent about your actions at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is wholly unacceptable,” the senators wrote in a letter to VA Secretary Collins. “As you are aware, Congress has a constitutionally-mandated obligation of oversight over executive agencies. However, VA under your leadership has been historically secretive and partisan, and overtly adversarial to any attempts at such oversight.”

    The senators delivered a searing review of Collins’ leadership and lack of communication with Congress: “…[Y]our communications lack timeliness, facts, and adequacy…Since your confirmation, the Department has also reduced or cancelled regular briefings on numerous topics, including homelessness, caregiver support and community care. And you have refused to allow members of Congress and staff to conduct roundtables and town halls at VA facilities to hear directly from employees and veterans about their concerns – violating years of precedent.” In an unprecedented move in April, the Trump administration refused to allow VA Puget Sound to participate in a roundtable discussion Senator Murray held in Seattle on women veterans’ health care.

    The senators also slammed Collins’ denial of basic Freedom of Information Act requests and insistence that media outlets change evidence-based reporting with no substantial proof to support those requests: “This vindictive secrecy is unprecedented, and demonstrates your consistent unwillingness to allow anyone to hold you accountable for your actions…This blatant obstruction of Congress, and lack of transparency and accountability to America’s veterans and taxpayers must not continue. ” The senators concluded their letter by demanding Collins commit to new timeliness and oversight parameters, including allowing members of Congress and staff to visit VA facilities and ensuring VA answer Congressional Requests for Information with 45 calendar days.

    The text of the senators’ letter is available HERE.

    In an effort to publicly track Trump VA’s responsiveness to Congress, Democrats on the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee recently rolled out a new website page website to track responses to oversight letters Ranking Member Blumenthal has sent since the beginning of the Trump administration, January 18, 2025. This web page reveals the majority of oversight letters to VA either get no response or responses with minimal or inaccurate information.

    This oversight website page can be found HERE and will be updated regularly.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister LeBlanc meets with U.S. Senate Congressional Delegation

    Source: Government of Canada News

    July 21, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

    Today, the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, President of the King’s Privy Council for Canada and Minister responsible for Canada-U.S. Trade, Intergovernmental Affairs and One Canadian Economy, met with a U.S. Senate Congressional Delegation to discuss opportunities to strengthen the longstanding and unique trade and investment relationship between Canada and the United States.

    During his discussion with Senators Ron Wyden (Oregon), Lisa Murkowski (Alaska), Maggie Hassan (New Hampshire), and Catherine Cortez Masto (Nevada), Minister LeBlanc underscored the importance of maintaining an open and stable trade environment between our deeply integrated economies to support mutual growth, prosperity and security. The minister conveyed his commitment to work with U.S. Congressional leaders to advance shared trade and investment goals.

    Associated links

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI USA: DelBene Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Streamline the Organ Donation Process

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (1st District of Washington)

    Today, Representatives Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Beth Van Duyne (TX-24), Carol Miller (WV-01), and Jim Costa (CA-21), introduced the Removing Burdens From Organ Donation Act, bipartisan legislation that would help provide more lifesaving organs to Americans on the transplant list. The bill would modernize and streamline the organ donation process by improving communication between hospitals and organ procurement organizations (OPOs).

    The bill requires hospitals participating in Medicare and Medicaid to send automated electronic notifications to their designated OPOs when a patient dies or meets criteria for imminent death. It also requires remote electronic access to a patient’s health records to be granted to the OPO at that time, ensuring faster and more informed decision-making in critical moments.

    “Organ transplant lists grow every day and families are waiting longer for the call that can give their loved ones the gift of life,” said DelBene. “This bill would cut through unnecessary red tape that slows down the organ donation process. By streamlining and automating how hospitals notify Organ Procurement Organizations, we can save valuable time and more lives.”

    “Organ donation saves lives, but too often, outdated processes, and unnecessary red tape stands in the way,” said Van Duyne. “By cutting bureaucratic delays and modernizing the referral process, this legislation will ensure that more donor organs reach the patients who desperately need them. I’m proud to lead this bipartisan effort that brings commonsense, life-saving reforms to a system that many families depend on.”

    “Over 35 million Americans are living with Chronic Kidney Disease. In my home state of West Virginia, nearly 4,000 individuals are experiencing kidney failure and are reliant on frequent dialysis or a kidney transplant to survive. As Co-Chair of the Congressional Kidney Caucus, I have introduced and supported legislation that addresses the needs of these individuals and helps them receive life-saving medical care. The Removing Burdens From Organ Donation Act will bring much needed reform to the organ donation process by simplifying the existing procedures and saving valuable time when viable organs become available. By removing bureaucratic red tape, we can save more lives and secure more organ transplants for patients in need,” said Miller.

    “The Removing Burdens From Organ Donation Act is a vital step towards strengthening our nation’s organ transplant system by advancing communications between hospitals and Organ Procurement Organizations,” said Costa. “This legislation bypasses burdens to streamline efficient organ donor referrals through technology to reduce delays and assist timely coordination. It’s a practical and commonsense solution to ensure more lives are saved.”

    “Without a doubt, the Removing Burdens From Organ Donation Act will save lives,” said Brad Adams, President & CEO of Southwest Transplant Alliance, the organ procurement organization that received the very first automated electronic donor referral. “Securely integrating systems between hospitals and organ procurement organizations through automated electronic donor referrals and remote access protocols will streamline operations, reduce costs, and increase patient safety. We are incredibly grateful for Reps. Van Duyne and the work she has done to remove burdens from the organ donation process.”

    To ensure flexibility, the bill allows temporary exemptions for hospitals facing significant hardships, such as limited rural internet access, cybersecurity attacks, or natural disasters.

    It also directs the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services to issue best practices guidance and annual reports on exemptions granted. Finally, the legislation requires the Government Accountability Office to study the impact of these changes, including transplant outcomes, rural broadband challenges, and patient data security.

    Experts and leaders in the transplant community praised the bill for its potential to improve patient outcomes and make the organ donation process more efficient:

    “This legislation will strengthen the existing deceased organ donor referral process by leveraging technology to streamline the way hospitals and organ procurement organizations communicate with one another,” said Maureen McBride, Ph.D., CEO of United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS). “Studies have found that automated deceased donor referral software tools increase the number of organ donors – a significant impact since one organ donor can save up to eight lives. Thank you, U.S. Reps. Van Duyne, DelBene, Miller, and Costa for your leadership in advocating for patients. UNOS looks forward to continuing to work with you to help more patients get the lifesaving transplant they need.”

    “LifeGift, the health services agency that coordinates organ and tissue donation in Houston, Fort Worth, Lubbock and Amarillo, Texas, supports the Removing Burdens From Organ Donation Act sponsored by Representatives Van Duyne, DelBene, Miller, and Costa as a hugely important performance improvement intervention to make potential donor referrals from hospital to organ procurement organization faster and more efficient. LifeGift has received 19,463 potential referrals so far in 2025 and received 35,952 referrals in 2024; all of which were made by phone between hospital staff and LifeGift. Moving these referral calls to an electronic notification allows critical care staff to focus on patient care and gives the organ donation team precious time to begin their lifesaving work.”

    The Association of Organ Procurement Organizations (AOPO) applauds Representatives Van Duyne, DelBene, Miller, and Costa for introducing legislation that streamlines hospital organ donor referrals and improves organ procurement organizations’ access to vital patient information. By reducing delays and supporting timely coordination with donor families, this bill will help ensure more lives are saved through organ donation.”

    “With more than 90,000 Americans on the kidney transplant waitlist, it is imperative that our organ transplant system function as efficiently as possible to help as many of them receive a kidney as quickly as possible,” said American Society of Nephrology President Prabir Roy-Chaudhury, MD, PhD, FASN. “The Removing Burdens From Organ Donation Act would help both hardworking donor hospital teams and organ procurement organization teams—who together make kidneys available for transplant—benefit from readily-available technology to speed the lifesaving work they lead every day across the country. I commend Reps. Van Duyne, DelBene, Miller, and Costa for their leadership in support of kidney transplant candidates awaiting a lifesaving organ and the multidisciplinary teams who make that hope a reality.”

    “On behalf of the American Society of Transplantation (AST), representing a majority of the nation’s medical professionals engaged in the field of solid organ transplantation, we applaud the continuous leadership and steadfast resolve of Representatives DelBene, Costa, Miller, and Van Duyne to strengthen the nation’s organ transplant system,” said Dr. Jon Kobashigawa, M.D. President, American Society of Transplantation (AST). “The AST endorses the ‘Removing Burdens from Organ Donation Act’ as a commonsense approach to bring great efficiencies to the system and our patients.”

    “On behalf of every kidney patient managing organ failure and their families, the American Association of Kidney Patients extends our most sincere appreciation to Representative Van Duyne and her Congressional colleagues, Representatives Suzan DelBene, Carol Miller, and Jim Costa, for their serious and substantive bipartisan efforts to address America’s organ shortage through the Removing Barriers to Organ Donation Act. Representative Van Duyne has been a remarkably insightful and empathetic advocate for kidney patients and we are honored to fully support the policy efforts she and her colleagues have undertaken to prioritize transplantation over status quo, high mortality dialysis and its associated legacy of dependence and disability.” Said Mr. Edward V. Hickey, IIII, a chronic kidney disease patient and the President of the American Association of Kidney Patients (AAKP), America’s largest kidney patient organization. 

    “This bipartisan bill takes a commonsense, life-saving step forward by streamlining communication between hospitals and organ procurement organizations,” said Susan Bushnell, President and CEO of the Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) Foundation. “It will help ensure fewer transplant opportunities are missed and that more families facing kidney failure can hold onto hope for a second chance. We’re grateful to Congress for working to remove burdens that cost lives.”

    “Better information means better care. The Removing Burdens From Organ Donation Act ensures timely, secure access to vital records so the entire care team can act quickly and decisively,” said Margaret French, Managing Director of Legislative Affairs, Alliance for Home Dialysis. “This bipartisan bill is a commonsense step toward more efficient, life-saving kidney donation and offers hope to people living with kidney failure.”

    Endorsing Organizations include: DaVita, Fresenius Medical Care, United Network for Organ Sharing, Southwest Transplant Alliance, Donor Network West (San Francisco, CA), Louisiana Organ Procurement Agency, Mid-America Transplant (St. Louis, MO), OurLegacy (Orlando, FL), Association of Organ Procurement Organizations, LifeGift (serving North, Southeast, and West Texas), American Society of Nephrology, American Society of Transplant Surgeons, American Society of Transplantation, National Kidney Foundation, Polycystic Kidney Disease Foundation, and Alliance for Home Dialysis.

    A copy of the bill can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Department of Justice Coordinates Release of Files Related to Assassination of Martin Luther King Jr.

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    WASHINGTON – Today, Attorney General Pamela Bondi hosted Dr. Alveda King at the Department of Justice to commemorate the release of files regarding the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The release contains 230,000 pages of documents and comes in accordance with Donald J. Trump’s Executive Order 14176.

    This disclosure is the product of months of collaboration between the Department of Justice (DOJ), Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), and National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). DOJ Attorneys spent hundreds of hours preparing and digitizing these documents for release.

    “The American people deserve answers decades after the horrific assassination of one of our nation’s great leaders,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “The Department of Justice is proud to partner with Director Gabbard and the ODNI at President Trump’s direction for this latest disclosure.”

    “I am grateful to President Trump and Attorney General Bondi for delivering on their pledge of transparency in the release of these documents on the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr.,” said Dr. Alveda King. “My uncle lived boldly in pursuit of truth and justice, and his enduring legacy of faith continues to inspire Americans to this day. While we continue to mourn his death, the declassification and release of these documents are a historic step towards the truth that the American people deserve.”

    Attorney General Bondi and Dr. King discussed the remarkable life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the need for transparency pertaining to his assassination on April 4th, 1968, in Memphis, Tennessee.

    Please see a link to the documents here.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: SiriusPoint Announces Date for Second Quarter 2025 Earnings Release

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HAMILTON, Bermuda, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SiriusPoint Ltd. (NYSE: SPNT) (“SiriusPoint” or the “Company”) today announced that it is planning to release its second quarter 2025 financial results before markets open on Monday, August 4, 2025. The Company will host a conference call, including a question-and-answer session, at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time on the same day to discuss the financial results.

    The webcast of the live conference call can be accessed by logging onto the Investor Relations section of the Company’s website at www.siriuspt.com. The online replay of the webcast will be available on the Company’s website immediately following the call.

    The conference call can be accessed by dialing 1-877-451-6152 (domestic) or 1-201-389-0879 (international) and asking for the SiriusPoint Ltd. Second Quarter 2025 Earnings Call. A replay will be available at the conclusion of the call and can be accessed by dialing 1-844-512-2921, or for international callers 1-412-317-6671, and providing the passcode 13754248. The replay will be available until 11:59 pm (Eastern Time) on August 18, 2025.

    About SiriusPoint

    SiriusPoint is a global underwriter of insurance and reinsurance providing solutions to clients and brokers around the world. Bermuda-headquartered with offices in New York, London, Stockholm and other locations, we are listed on the New York Stock Exchange (SPNT). We have licenses to write Property & Casualty and Accident & Health insurance and reinsurance globally. Our offering and distribution capabilities are strengthened by a portfolio of strategic partnerships with Managing General Agents and Program Administrators. With approximately $2.7 billion total capital, SiriusPoint’s operating companies have a financial strength rating of A- (Excellent) from AM Best, S&P and Fitch, and A3 from Moody’s. For more information, please visit www.siriuspt.com.

    Contacts

    Investor Relations
    Liam Blackledge, SiriusPoint
    liam.blackledge@siriuspt.com
    +44 203 772 3082

    Media
    Sarah Hills, Rein4ce
    sarah.hills@rein4ce.co.uk
    +44 771 888 2011

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: 2UniFi and Nav Team Up to Power Growth for Small Business

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DENVER, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — National Bank Holdings Corporation (NYSE: NBHC) is pleased to announce a strategic partnership to support 2UniFi, an innovative financial ecosystem for business launched this month. As part of the initial collaboration, 2UniFi will be integrated within the Nav marketplace for small business deposit and lending solutions. With over 1 million users, Nav is the leading credit and financial health platform for small business owners, offering a suite of tools to help entrepreneurs access, monitor, and build their business credit. Additionally, Nav provides small business owners with a wealth of short and long term financing options to fuel their growth.

    Tim Laney, Chairman and CEO of NBHC and Founder of 2UniFi stated, “2UniFi is building a comprehensive ecosystem of financial solutions paired with data driven insights with the goal of transforming the way small and medium-sized businesses access the U.S. banking system. This partnership with Nav will help propel 2UniFi’s growth by expanding our reach to small businesses through Nav’s deposit and lending marketplace.”

    With a shared vision to support the success of small and medium-sized businesses in the U.S., Nav and 2UniFi will leverage their unique capabilities to bring robust solutions to market. 2UniFi will integrate Nav’s financial health and credit insights inside the 2UniFi experience.

    NBHC has also made a $5 million strategic investment in Nav. Laney, who will serve as an observer on Nav’s board, added, “Small businesses are essential for a healthy and thriving economy. By integrating Nav’s business credit insights into the 2UniFi experience, we are empowering everyday entrepreneurs with the financial health tools they need to further grow their business.”

    “At Nav, we’re committed to providing small business owners with the best service and products they need to ensure their businesses are not only able to survive, but thrive for years,” said Levi King, Nav CEO, Co-Founder and Chairman of the Board. “This partnership with 2UniFi not only affords us the opportunity to provide a truly differentiated offering to our customers, but it opens the door for even more small business owners to access resources that many of them so desperately need.”

    Tim Laney added, “In the course of partnership discussions, our team developed a deep appreciation for the proven experience Levi and his team have in the financial technology arena. We look forward to the positive impact we can make together for business owners and operators.”

    About National Bank Holdings Corporation

    National Bank Holdings Corporation is a bank holding company created to build a leading community bank franchise delivering high quality client service and committed to stakeholder results. Through its bank subsidiaries, NBH Bank and Bank of Jackson Hole Trust, National Bank Holdings Corporation operates a network of over 85 banking centers, serving individual consumers, small, medium and large businesses, and government and non-profit entities. Its banking centers are located in its core footprint of Colorado, the greater Kansas City region, Utah, Wyoming, Texas, New Mexico and Idaho. Its comprehensive residential mortgage banking group primarily serves the bank’s core footprint. Its trust business is operated in its core footprint under the Bank of Jackson Hole Trust charter. NBH Bank operates under a single state charter through the following brand names as divisions of NBH Bank: in Colorado, Community Banks of Colorado and Community Banks Mortgage; in Kansas and Missouri, Bank Midwest and Bank Midwest Mortgage; in Utah, Texas, New Mexico and Idaho, Hillcrest Bank and Hillcrest Bank Mortgage; and in Wyoming, Bank of Jackson Hole and Bank of Jackson Hole Mortgage. Additional information about National Bank Holdings Corporation can be found at www.nationalbankholdings.com.

    For more information visit: cobnks.com, bankmw.com, hillcrestbank.com, bankofjacksonhole.com, or nbhbank.com. Or connect with any of our brands on LinkedIn.

    About Nav Technologies, Inc.
    Nav is the leading credit and financial health platform for small businesses. Nav’s unique financial health platform shows cash flow and credit insights alongside suggested financing options, and is the only place small business owners can build and manage business credit and see what financing they can qualify for before they apply. Nav has raised more than $100 million in capital from investors including Goldman Sachs Principal Strategic Investments, Kleiner Perkins, Experian Ventures, and Point72 Ventures.

    Contact:                  
    Analysts/Institutional Investors:
    Emily Gooden, 720-554-6640
    Chief Accounting Officer and Investor Relations Director
    ir@nationalbankholdings.com
      Media:
    Jody Soper, 303-784-5925
    Chief Marketing Officer
    Jody.Soper@nbhbank.com
         
    Nicole Van Denabeele, 720-529-3370
    Chief Financial Officer
    ir@nationalbankholdings.com
       
         

    Source: National Bank Holdings Corporation

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ea449cea-5438-4ef9-b2c5-1f3b752a8166

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: CTRL Group Limited Announces Name Change

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Kowloon, Hong Kong, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CTRL Group Limited (the “Company”) (Nasdaq CM: MCTR), an integrated marketing and advertising services provider in Hong Kong specializing in mobile games promotion for the local market, today announced, subject to and conditional upon the approval of the Registrar of Companies in the British Virgin Islands (the “Registrar”), it will change its name from CTRL Group Ltd. to TJGC Group.

    The name change will become effective upon the issuance of a Certificate of Change of Name by the Registrar and the corresponding update in the Register of Companies.

    The Company’s ordinary shares will continue to be listed and traded on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the current ticker symbol “MCTR”. The CUSIP number for the Company’s ordinary shares will remain unchanged.

    About CTRL Group Limited

    The Company’s wholly owned subsidiary and operating company, CTRL Group Limited, is an integrated marketing and advertising services provider in Hong Kong specializing in mobile games promotion for the local market. The Company provides services to mobile game developers, principally developers of mobile gaming applications or “apps” that gamers download from the developers’ websites and applicable mobile operating systems, such as Apple Store or Android Google Play Store. The market for specialized mobile game advertising in Hong Kong is occupied by a few market players who compete with one another. The Company’s prominent market share and proven track record are indicative of its audience reach and engagement, as well as its relevance to advertisers in Hong Kong markets. For more information, please visit the Company’s website: https://www.ctrl-media.com/

    Forward-Looking Statements

    All statements other than statements of historical fact in this announcement are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs, including the expectation that the Offering will be successfully completed. Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “potential,” “continue,” “is/are likely to” or other similar expressions. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in the Company’s registration statement and in its other filings with the SEC.

    For more information, please contact:

    Investor Relations
    CTRL Group Limited
    Phone: +852-3107-4887
    Email: project@ctrl-media.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Minister of State and Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Responsibility for Implementing DRC Peace Agreement Lies with Both Parties

    Source: Government of Qatar

    Doha, July 19, 2025

    HE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi, affirmed that the responsibility for implementing the agreement between the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Congo River Alliance/March 23 Movement lies with both parties. His Excellency emphasized that this achievement represents a firm foundation upon which to build a more secure and stable future for the region.

    Speaking at a press conference following the signing of the Declaration of Principles between the Government of the DRC and the Congo River Alliance/March 23 Movement in Doha today, His Excellency described the declaration as a critical step toward strengthening peace and stability in eastern DRC. It marks the beginning of direct negotiations aimed at achieving a comprehensive peace that addresses the root causes of the conflict. He expressed confidence in the commitment of both parties to uphold the agreement.

    HE Dr. Al Khulaifi underscored the State of Qatar’s role as a neutral and effective mediator, highlighting its efforts to bring the parties closer together and build bridges of understanding. He praised the sense of responsibility demonstrated by both sides in reaching this declaration and expressed appreciation for the trust placed in Qatar to facilitate the process.

    His Excellency commended the substantial support of HE President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Felix Tshisekedi, for the peace process, as well as the constructive approach of the Congolese government’s negotiating delegation. He also acknowledged the cooperation of Bernard Bisimwa, Vice President of the Congo River Alliance/M23 Movement, and the movement’s delegation during the talks.

    HE Dr. Al Khulaifi noted that Qatari mediation efforts began in March, when HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani hosted HE President Tshisekedi and HE President of the Republic of Rwanda, Paul Kagame, in Doha. During that meeting, President Tshisekedi expressed his readiness to engage in dialogue with the Congo River Alliance/March 23 Movement.

    Since then, Qatar has hosted direct negotiations between the parties, which were marked by a positive and responsible spirit, grounded in a shared belief in dialogue as the primary path to conflict resolution. These efforts culminated in the signing of the Declaration of Principles.

    Dr. Al Khulaifi stated that the leaders’ meeting in March served as a launching point for this process, leading to a series of positive developments, including the signing of the Washington Agreement between the DRC and Rwanda on June 27, 2025, an agreement that paved the way for today’s declaration.

    He emphasized that the Declaration of Principles is not solely focused on ending violence but also provides a practical roadmap for national reconciliation. It marks the beginning of a new phase of cooperation among various societal components in the DRC, including armed groups that have chosen the path of peace. The declaration also outlines a significant role for the international community in supporting peacebuilding and sustainable development.

    His Excellency noted that the two parties demonstrated a genuine determination to break the cycle of violence and build mutual trust through concrete actions, such as the exchange of prisoners and detainees, the restoration of state authority, and the dignified return of displaced persons and refugees.

    HE Dr. Al Khulaifi expressed the State of Qatar’s gratitude to the African Union and acknowledged the support of the United States of America, particularly the efforts of HE US Presidential Envoy and Senior Advisor for African Affairs, Massad Boulos. He also commended the contributions of HE Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf.

    Additionally, His Excellency recognized the constructive roles played by the Republic of Rwanda, the French Republic, the United Kingdom, and the Consultative Dialogue Group, as well as the engagement of all regional and international partners backing the process.

    HE Dr. Al Khulaifi affirmed that this initiative reflects Qatar’s steadfast commitment to mediation as a cornerstone of its foreign policy. The State of Qatar remains dedicated to supporting peacemaking efforts, advancing sustainable development, and empowering communities to achieve long-term stability grounded in justice, inclusiveness, and mutual respect.

    He expressed hope that the Declaration of Principles will represent a meaningful step toward lasting peace and sustainable development in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the wider region.

    For his part, HE Massad Boulos, the US Presidential Envoy and Senior Advisor for African Affairs, praised Qatar’s vital role in facilitating the agreement, stating: “The State of Qatar is known for its pioneering role in resolving conflicts around the world, and we thank it for its essential efforts in this matter.”

    HE Boulos noted that the conflict in the DRC has displaced more than eight million people, and that past initiatives have largely failed to yield results, making the Doha agreement a rare and valuable opportunity to achieve peace.

    He further highlighted Qatar’s diplomatic leadership over the past two decades in facilitating complex peace processes, from Darfur in Sudan, to the Lebanese crisis, the Afghanistan negotiations, and now the DRC.

    HE Boulos emphasized that while the Declaration of Principles marks only the first step, it is a critical one. It addresses core issues such as the immediate and permanent cessation of violence, prisoner exchanges, the restoration of full state authority, and the safe, dignified return of displaced persons and refugees. He called for the launch of direct negotiations to address the roots of the conflict and reach a comprehensive peace agreement, while urging international support for national reconciliation and development in conflict-affected areas.

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI USA: Press Release: Federal Bank Regulatory Agencies Seek Further Comment on Interagency Effort to Reduce Regulatory Burden

    Source: US Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation FDIC

    CategoriesBusiness, Commerce, MIL-OSI, United States Federal Government, United States Government, United States of America, US Commerce, US Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation FDIC, US Federal Government, US Insurance Sector, USA

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Buffalo removes several violent criminal aliens from US

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    July 21, 2025Buffalo, NY, United StatesEnforcement and Removal

    BUFFALO, N.Y. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Buffalo officers are on the streets every day, bravely executing the agency’s mission to locate, arrest and remove egregious criminal aliens from the United States in line with the president’s policy of “worst first.”

    “I’m extraordinarily proud of our officers who, despite a record increase in assaults against them, continue to selflessly dedicate themselves to protecting public safety and national security,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Buffalo acting Deputy Field Office Director James T. Bausch. “These violent criminals can no longer pose a threat to anyone in our country.”

    Between July 11 and July 17, ICE Buffalo removed the following criminal aliens with felony convictions and pending charges: 

    • Jesus Flores-Flores, a 49-year-old citizen of Mexico convicted of manslaughter, assault and criminal mischief.
    • Gerber Rosil-Galdamez, a 41-year-old citizen of Guatemala convicted of rape and sexual abuse.  
    • Ivan Fidencio Juarez-Rivera, a 42-year-old citizen of Mexico with convictions for domestic violence, assault, burglary, driving while intoxicated and illegal reentry.
    • Cristian Josue Pena-Contreras, a 21-year-old citizen of Honduras whose criminal history includes 13 convictions for receiving stolen property, larceny and larceny of a motor vehicle.
    • Jostin Javier Cabrera-Ruiz, an 18-year-old citizen of Ecuador whose criminal history includes pending charges for robbery, criminal mischief, criminal possession stolen property, possession of credit card, grand larceny, menacing, criminal possession of weapon and petit larceny.
    • Marlon Ganesh Beerbhajan, a 48-year-old citizen of Guyana pending charges for unlawful imprisonment and forcible touching.

    Learn more about ERO Buffalo’s mission to preserve public safety on X at @EROBuffalo.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: $HAREHOLDER ALERT: The M&A Class Action Firm Announces An Investigation of Veritex Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: VBTX)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Class Action Attorney Juan Monteverde with Monteverde & Associates PC (the “M&A Class Action Firm”), has recovered millions of dollars for shareholders and is recognized as a Top 50 Firm in the 2024 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. The firm is headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City and is investigating Veritex Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: VBTX) related to its sale to Huntington Bancshares Inc. Upon completion of the proposed transaction, Huntington will issue 1.95 shares for each outstanding share of Veritex. Is it a fair deal?

    Click here for more info https://monteverdelaw.com/case/veritex-holdings-inc/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

    NOT ALL LAW FIRMS ARE EQUAL. Before you hire a law firm, you should talk to a lawyer and ask:

    1. Do you file class actions and go to Court?
    2. When was the last time you recovered money for shareholders?
    3. What cases did you recover money in and how much?

    About Monteverde & Associates PC

    Our firm litigates and has recovered money for shareholders…and we do it from our offices in the Empire State Building. We are a national class action securities firm with a successful track record in trial and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court. 

    No one is above the law. If you own common stock in the above listed company and have concerns or wish to obtain additional information free of charge, please visit our website or contact Juan Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail at jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com or by telephone at (212) 971-1341.

    Contact:
    Juan Monteverde, Esq.
    MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC
    The Empire State Building
    350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4740
    New York, NY 10118
    United States of America
    jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com
    Tel: (212) 971-1341

    Attorney Advertising. (C) 2025 Monteverde & Associates PC. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Monteverde & Associates PC (www.monteverdelaw.com).  Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: $HAREHOLDER ALERT: The M&A Class Action Firm Announces An Investigation of Veritex Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: VBTX)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Class Action Attorney Juan Monteverde with Monteverde & Associates PC (the “M&A Class Action Firm”), has recovered millions of dollars for shareholders and is recognized as a Top 50 Firm in the 2024 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. The firm is headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City and is investigating Veritex Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: VBTX) related to its sale to Huntington Bancshares Inc. Upon completion of the proposed transaction, Huntington will issue 1.95 shares for each outstanding share of Veritex. Is it a fair deal?

    Click here for more info https://monteverdelaw.com/case/veritex-holdings-inc/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

    NOT ALL LAW FIRMS ARE EQUAL. Before you hire a law firm, you should talk to a lawyer and ask:

    1. Do you file class actions and go to Court?
    2. When was the last time you recovered money for shareholders?
    3. What cases did you recover money in and how much?

    About Monteverde & Associates PC

    Our firm litigates and has recovered money for shareholders…and we do it from our offices in the Empire State Building. We are a national class action securities firm with a successful track record in trial and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court. 

    No one is above the law. If you own common stock in the above listed company and have concerns or wish to obtain additional information free of charge, please visit our website or contact Juan Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail at jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com or by telephone at (212) 971-1341.

    Contact:
    Juan Monteverde, Esq.
    MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC
    The Empire State Building
    350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4740
    New York, NY 10118
    United States of America
    jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com
    Tel: (212) 971-1341

    Attorney Advertising. (C) 2025 Monteverde & Associates PC. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Monteverde & Associates PC (www.monteverdelaw.com).  Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: $HAREHOLDER ALERT: The M&A Class Action Firm Announces An Investigation of Goldenstone Acquisition Limited (OTCMKTS: GDST)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Class Action Attorney Juan Monteverde with Monteverde & Associates PC (the “M&A Class Action Firm”), has recovered millions of dollars for shareholders and is recognized as a Top 50 Firm in the 2024 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. The firm is headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City and is investigating Goldenstone Acquisition Limited (OTCMKTS: GDST) related to its merger with Infintium Fuel Cell Systems, Inc. Upon completion of the proposed transaction, Infinitum Class A and Class B common stock will be converted into shares of Goldenstone common stock. Is it a fair deal?

    Click here for more info https://monteverdelaw.com/case/goldenstone-acquisition-limited/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

    NOT ALL LAW FIRMS ARE EQUAL. Before you hire a law firm, you should talk to a lawyer and ask:

    1. Do you file class actions and go to Court?
    2. When was the last time you recovered money for shareholders?
    3. What cases did you recover money in and how much?

    About Monteverde & Associates PC

    Our firm litigates and has recovered money for shareholders…and we do it from our offices in the Empire State Building. We are a national class action securities firm with a successful track record in trial and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court. 

    No one is above the law. If you own common stock in the above listed company and have concerns or wish to obtain additional information free of charge, please visit our website or contact Juan Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail at jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com or by telephone at (212) 971-1341.

    Contact:
    Juan Monteverde, Esq.
    MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC
    The Empire State Building
    350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4740
    New York, NY 10118
    United States of America
    jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com
    Tel: (212) 971-1341

    Attorney Advertising. (C) 2025 Monteverde & Associates PC. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Monteverde & Associates PC (www.monteverdelaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: $HAREHOLDER ALERT: The M&A Class Action Firm Announces An Investigation of Goldenstone Acquisition Limited (OTCMKTS: GDST)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Class Action Attorney Juan Monteverde with Monteverde & Associates PC (the “M&A Class Action Firm”), has recovered millions of dollars for shareholders and is recognized as a Top 50 Firm in the 2024 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. The firm is headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City and is investigating Goldenstone Acquisition Limited (OTCMKTS: GDST) related to its merger with Infintium Fuel Cell Systems, Inc. Upon completion of the proposed transaction, Infinitum Class A and Class B common stock will be converted into shares of Goldenstone common stock. Is it a fair deal?

    Click here for more info https://monteverdelaw.com/case/goldenstone-acquisition-limited/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

    NOT ALL LAW FIRMS ARE EQUAL. Before you hire a law firm, you should talk to a lawyer and ask:

    1. Do you file class actions and go to Court?
    2. When was the last time you recovered money for shareholders?
    3. What cases did you recover money in and how much?

    About Monteverde & Associates PC

    Our firm litigates and has recovered money for shareholders…and we do it from our offices in the Empire State Building. We are a national class action securities firm with a successful track record in trial and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court. 

    No one is above the law. If you own common stock in the above listed company and have concerns or wish to obtain additional information free of charge, please visit our website or contact Juan Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail at jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com or by telephone at (212) 971-1341.

    Contact:
    Juan Monteverde, Esq.
    MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC
    The Empire State Building
    350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4740
    New York, NY 10118
    United States of America
    jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com
    Tel: (212) 971-1341

    Attorney Advertising. (C) 2025 Monteverde & Associates PC. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Monteverde & Associates PC (www.monteverdelaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.

    The MIL Network