NewzIntel.com

Category: Australia

  • MIL-Evening Report: Whatever happened to the Albanese government’s wellbeing agenda?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kate Sollis, Research Fellow, University of Tasmania

    DavideAngelini/Shutterstock

    The Albanese government devoted time and energy in its first term to developing a wellbeing agenda for the economy and society.

    It was a passion project of Treasurer Jim Chalmers, who wanted better ways to measure national welfare beyond traditional economic indicators such as growth, jobs and inflation.

    Chalmers developed the Measuring What Matters framework to try to better align economic, social and environmental goals as

    part of a deliberate effort to put people and progress, fairness and opportunity at the very core of our thinking about our economy and our society.

    As Labor settles into its second term, what has happened to its wellbeing agenda? And how much was a poor consultation process to blame for it apparently falling by the wayside?

    Measuring What Matters

    Measuring What Matters was badged as a wellbeing framework to improve the lives of Australians and help better inform policy-making across all levels of government.

    It tracked 50 indicators spread across five overarching themes:

    • healthy
    • secure
    • sustainable
    • cohesive
    • prosperous.

    There was also a standalone indicator on life satisfaction.

    The data is updated annually by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, with the Treasury due to report on outcomes every three years.

    The first Measuring What Matters statement in 2023 showed improvements across some indicators, such as life expectancy, job opportunities and accepting diversity. But it also revealed higher rates of chronic illness and problems with housing affordability.

    The fanfare surrounding the release has since fizzled, and wellbeing is now seldom mentioned.

    Furthermore, there is little evidence insights have been taken up by the government. The Australian National Audit Office recently noted the challenge of embedding Measuring What Matters in policy, as well as the absence of any evaluation work to gauge its effectiveness.

    The wellbeing agenda appears to have been sidelined for two reasons: an insufficient consultation process to properly develop the framework, and the cost-of-living crisis.

    Poor consultation

    Wellbeing frameworks have high potential to impact policy. But they need to be developed and implemented in the right way.

    One crucial factor is adequate community engagement, which would have helped ensure accurate representation of what people truly value in terms of wellbeing. Done properly, it could also have secured buy-in from the community, depoliticised the initiative, and even strengthened democracy.

    But adequate time was not taken to get the consultation process right, with the government in a rush to release Measuring What Matters. Announced in the October 2022 Budget, two consultation phases were undertaken.

    The first, mainly with technical experts, took three months. The second, which sought feedback from individuals and community groups, was even shorter. It was over in just one month.

    Measuring What Matters was released shortly after, in July 2023.

    Our research, recently published in the Australian Journal of Social Issues, analysed the public consultation phase. We found it was inadequate across four areas.

    Comprehensiveness: the timeframe for phase two was too short to allow organisations and communities to meaningfully engage.

    Reach: there was limited engagement with the general public.

    Transparency: the community was not informed how feedback would be incorporated in the framework and no consultation report was published.

    Genuineness: while some feedback was incorporated in the framework, key topics raised in the consultation were not acted on, including greater involvement of First Nations people.

    Greater community engagement would have ensured the framework, and any policy it produced, better reflected what Australians value for their wellbeing. It would have also promoted people’s ownership of the framework, helping to foster greater understanding and support for the initiative.

    Although Measuring What Matters is now established, it is not too late to realise proper community engagement.

    Taboo subject

    The other factor to run interference was the cost-of-living crisis, which dominated the government’s first term.

    Ministers were hesitant to talk about much else. Any references to wellbeing, which for some may elicit images of people meditating or practising yoga, might have been seen as risky.

    This is a shame. Wellbeing policies have the potential to improve people’s lives.

    We can draw some inspiration from an alliance of countries, including New Zealand, Scotland, Finland, Iceland and Wales, which have at various times put people’s wellbeing at the forefront of policy development and evaluation.

    For example, while progress has been slow and there have been key challenges to overcome, the Welsh Well-being of Future Generations Act has led to policy changes such as a moratorium on roads being built to improve people’s health and the environment.

    Perhaps if the Albanese government had leaned in to its own wellbeing framework to help navigate the cost-of-living crisis, people may have fared better.

    The agenda’s future?

    The Albanese government’s large majority gives it space to revitalise its wellbeing framework.

    Undertaking a national conversation, similar to the one rolled out in Wales, would help build grassroots support and ensure it truly “measures what matters” to people.

    A stronger Measuring What Matters would not only provide the electorate with a clear indication the government is listening, but would also help ensure policy improves people’s lives in a meaningful way.

    Kate Sollis is a consultant to the Wellbeing Government initiative at the Centre for Policy Development and President of the Bega Valley Data Collective. She was previously employed at the Australian Bureau of Statistics

    Paul Campbell is a research fellow, whose work is supported by the ANU-Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Government Wellbeing Framework research partnership. He was previously employed by the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

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

    – ref. Whatever happened to the Albanese government’s wellbeing agenda? – https://theconversation.com/whatever-happened-to-the-albanese-governments-wellbeing-agenda-258580

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Brands want us to trust them. But as the SPF debacle shows, they need to earn it

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Paul Harrison, Director, Master of Business Administration Program (MBA); Co-Director, Better Consumption Lab, Deakin University

    It’s quite unsettling to discover something so central to our cultural rituals – the “slop” in the Aussie mantra of “Slip! Slop! Slap!” – can no longer be trusted.

    We’ve never really had to scrutinise sunscreen. We slop it on because Sid the Seagull (in his role as spokesbird for the Cancer Council) told us to. We’ve learned about sun protection factors (SPF) and made choices to protect ourselves. We do it because it works.

    Or so we thought.

    Consumer group Choice recently tested 20 sunscreen brands and found only four met their labelled SPF claims. The findings have shaken consumers’ trust in the brands that make these products, and perhaps, in the institutions responsible for regulating them.

    Trust is the silent architecture of our lives that makes everything from catching a bus to undergoing surgery feel possible. Indeed, we are born into trust. From infancy, we are wired to trust, first in our caregivers, then later in life in the cues and symbols such as endorsements, SPF ratings, brands or rankings that help us navigate a complex world.

    It’s also why we rarely read the fine print or terms and conditions.

    The original Sid the Seagull video from the Cancer Council.

    The role of power in trust relationships

    Trust, and its erosion in public life, has become such a critical issue that the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has made it a focus of Friday’s Consumer Congress, titled “Who can we trust? Regulating in an environment of declining consumer trust”.

    Something that is often missed in discussions around trust is that it is also a social arrangement, shaped by power and vulnerability. Trust is nearly always asymmetric; those with the least power are usually required to place their trust first and most fully.

    The powerful rarely have to reciprocate that vulnerability. They hold the information, set the rules and shape the narrative. When things go wrong, the powerful often walk away relatively unscathed, while the vulnerable are left to navigate complex complaints or refund systems.

    Increasingly, we are told to be savvy, to read the fine print and to “do the research”.
    But putting the responsibility on the individual reframes structural failures as personal shortcomings. It places the burden of vigilance and scrutiny on people who lack the time or expertise to meaningfully assess risk.

    A breach of faith

    The issue is compounded by a wider trend across many businesses that have misread their relationship with consumers. Much of our trust in brands is automatic.

    We are more inclined to trust claims from familiar or warm-sounding sources, with research showing warmth comes first. People tend to judge others and institutions by their perceived warmth before considering their competence. So a brand that feels benevolent often earns our trust before we assess its actual performance.

    Qantas, a brand that built its entire identity around the idea that it was “us”, trashed our trust when it began acting like a transactional retail business, rather than one built on relationships.

    Management and the board failed to grasp they had been given something rare: a kind of cultural endearment underpinned by trust and perceived reciprocity that made Australians feel personally invested in its success.

    While Qantas does retain market share, the erosion of this emotional bond means many customers are more willing to try its competitors. It will struggle to rebuild that trust simply with price deals or heartstring-tugging ad campaigns.

    One of Qantas’ ad campaigns with an emotional appeal to customers.

    The response matters

    For organisations such as the Cancer Council, whose trustworthiness is built on moral authority, the response to failure matters deeply. Its decision to acknowledge the findings and commit to retesting was more than public relations. It was an act of relational repair.

    In contrast, some of the other corporate brands in the survey responded by disputing Choice’s methodology. That reveals an outdated corporate reflex – one that attacks the messenger rather than engaging with the message. This defensive posture reflects a mindset shaped more by legal risk and brand control than by public accountability or ethical responsibility.

    Still, individual responses are not enough. We need systems designed with human limits in mind. Trust cannot be sustained if it is constantly tested by complexity, misinformation and opaque accountability.

    Consumer bodies such as Choice provide a public service by filling the gap between what people assume and what they can verify. But more broadly, businesses and regulators must treat trust as a relationship, not a marketing goal.

    The system needs to prevent harm, not deal with the fallout

    Rebuilding trust means putting people at the centre of consumer regulation. A human-centred system does not treat people as problems to be managed. It treats them as participants in a shared moral project. It requires systems grounded in evidence, designed around real human behaviour and focused on preventing harm rather than managing fallout.

    One way to do this is through collaborative regulation. This approach brings together consumer representatives, regulators, behavioural experts and industry to design rules and standards that reflect how people actually behave (as opposed to how we hope they behave). This reduces asymmetries of power, and ensures trust is earned and maintained over time.

    This collaborative approach has been successfully adopted in local government and health. But it only works when collaboration is approached in good faith by all parties, not just a “tick-the-box” exercise.

    Of course, this approach runs counter to a legal system that tends to prioritise the system over the people it serves, and process over outcomes. But the goal shouldn’t be to force better ideas into outdated frameworks. Instead, we should design systems that lead to better outcomes for everyone.

    Paul Harrison has received research funding from ASIC, the Consumer Action Law Centre, ACCAN, Victorian Health Association, and the Therapeutic Goods Administration.

    – ref. Brands want us to trust them. But as the SPF debacle shows, they need to earn it – https://theconversation.com/brands-want-us-to-trust-them-but-as-the-spf-debacle-shows-they-need-to-earn-it-259565

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA, Australia Team Up for Artemis II Lunar Laser Communications Test

    Source: NASA

    As NASA prepares for its Artemis II mission, researchers at the agency’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland are collaborating with The Australian National University (ANU) to prove inventive, cost-saving laser communications technologies in the lunar environment.
    Communicating in space usually relies on radio waves, but NASA is exploring laser, or optical, communications, which can send data 10 to 100 times faster to the ground. Instead of radio signals, these systems use infrared light to transmit high-definition video, picture, voice, and science data across vast distances in less time. NASA has proven laser communications during previous technology demonstrations, but Artemis II will be the first crewed mission to attempt using lasers to transmit data from deep space.
    To support this effort, researchers working on the agency’s Real Time Optical Receiver (RealTOR) project have developed a cost-effective laser transceiver using commercial-off-the-shelf parts. Earlier this year, NASA Glenn engineers built and tested a replica of the system at the center’s Aerospace Communications Facility, and they are now working with ANU to build a system with the same hardware models to prepare for the university’s Artemis II laser communications demo.
    “Australia’s upcoming lunar experiment could showcase the capability, affordability, and reproducibility of the deep space receiver engineered by Glenn,” said Jennifer Downey, co-principal investigator for the RealTOR project at NASA Glenn. “It’s an important step in proving the feasibility of using commercial parts to develop accessible technologies for sustainable exploration beyond Earth.”
    During Artemis II, which is scheduled for early 2026, NASA will fly an optical communications system aboard the Orion spacecraft, which will test using lasers to send data across the cosmos. During the mission, NASA will attempt to transmit recorded 4K ultra-high-definition video, flight procedures, pictures, science data, and voice communications from the Moon to Earth.

    Nearly 10,000 miles from Cleveland, ANU researchers working at the Mount Stromlo Observatory ground station hope to receive data during Orion’s journey around the Moon using the Glenn-developed transceiver model. This ground station will serve as a test location for the new transceiver design and will not be one of the mission’s primary ground stations. If the test is successful, it will prove that commercial parts can be used to build affordable, scalable space communication systems for future missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.
    “Engaging with The Australian National University to expand commercial laser communications offerings across the world will further demonstrate how this advanced satellite communications capability is ready to support the agency’s networks and missions as we set our sights on deep space exploration,” said Marie Piasecki, technology portfolio manager for NASA’s Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN) Program.
    As NASA continues to investigate the feasibility of using commercial parts to engineer ground stations, Glenn researchers will continue to provide critical support in preparation for Australia’s demonstration.
    Strong global partnerships advance technology breakthroughs and are instrumental as NASA expands humanity’s reach from the Moon to Mars, while fueling innovations that improve life on Earth. Through Artemis, NASA will send astronauts to explore the Moon for scientific discovery, economic benefits, and build the foundation for the first crewed missions to Mars.

    The RealTOR project is one aspect of the optical communications portfolio within NASA’s SCaN Program, which includes demonstrations and in-space experiment platforms to test the viability of infrared light for sending data to and from space. These include the LCOT (Low-Cost Optical Terminal) project, the Laser Communications Relay Demonstration, and more. NASA Glenn manages the project under the direction of agency’s SCaN Program at NASA Headquarters in Washington.
    The Australian National University’s demonstration is supported by the Australian Space Agency Moon to Mars Demonstrator Mission Grant program, which has facilitated operational capability for the Australian Deep Space Optical Ground Station Network.
    To learn how space communications and navigation capabilities support every agency mission, visit:
    https://www.nasa.gov/communicating-with-missions

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Stein Takes Action on 10 Bills

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Governor Stein Takes Action on 10 Bills

    Governor Stein Takes Action on 10 Bills
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    Today Governor Stein signed 10 bills into law.

    Governor Stein made the following statement on his signing of House Bill 612: Fostering Care in NC Act: 

    “This bill protects our most vulnerable children and strengthens our child welfare system. I applaud the provisions of this bill that better protect children from abuse and neglect, empower a rapid response team to support those receiving mental health treatment, and help more kids stay with their family members. I thank the bill sponsors, Representatives Chesser, Bell, Loftis and Alston, for their work, as well as Senator Sydney Batch for her years of dedication to this issue.”

    Governor Stein made the following statement on his signing of House Bill 373: UNC Tuition Discount for Certain Students: 

    “This bill will help military students afford tuition at our state’s top-tier university system. This way, we can both support those who have sacrificed so much for our freedoms and strengthen our workforce of tomorrow. I appreciate Representatives Campbell, Pickett, Chesser, and Willis for their sponsorship of this legislation.” 

    Governor Stein made the following statement on his signing of House Bill 251: Various Disaster Recovery Reforms:

    “North Carolina does not discriminate based on political affiliation or political speech, including when providing disaster recovery assistance. This bill ensures that will remain the case.”

    Governor Stein made the following statement on his signing of Senate Bill 400: Adult Protection Multidisciplinary Teams:

    “This bill will help counties improve their adult protective services for older and disabled North Carolinians by creating teams that can share information and collaborate, making vulnerable people safer.” 

    Governor Stein also signed the following into law: 

    • House Bill 40: Various GSC Recommendations
    • House Bill 91: Define Armed Forces / Religious Prop. Tax Excl.
    • House Bill 247: Underground Safety Revisions
    • House Bill 421: Motor Vehicle Dealers
    • House Bill 476: DST Technical Corrections/Admin. Changes 2025
    • Senate Bill 344: Pooled Trust Transfers / Public Benefits Elig 
    Jun 26, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: MiningToken Becomes the First to Enable Litecoin Cloud Mining on Mobile Devices, Opening a New Path for LTC Investors

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Brisbane, June 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Rise of Mobile Litecoin Cloud Mining

    Being called the silver to Bitcoin’s golden one, Litecoin (LTC) has become incredibly popular due to its high speed of transactions, cheap fixed commissions, and good reputation in the crypto community. However, even though Litecoin is still ranked among the top 20 cryptocurrencies, it has traditionally been rather difficult to mine, home to costly, special equipment, technical skills, and enormous energy demands, until recently.

    A mobile-friendly cloud mining platform has emerged, enabling users to mine Litecoin easily from their smartphones. No hardware is required, no electric cost, and it does not need a complex setup. To sweeten the deal, all new users are entitled to a free-of-charge credit of $100, allowing them to begin mining immediately.

    This innovation places MiningToken among the few platforms that accommodate mobile-based Litecoin cloud mining—giving more people an opportunity to earn LTC without spending money on installing physical infrastructure.

    What Makes MiningToken Ideal for Litecoin Mining?

    MiningToken is a secure and convenient provider of cloud mining infrastructure supported by mining farms on an industrial scale. Some of these farms are situated in countries such as Canada, Iceland, and Paraguay where energy sources are primarily renewable—hydroelectric, geothermal, and wind—making the system efficient and environmentally conscious.

    Instead of relying on physical mining rigs, users rent hashpower through short-term contracts. MiningToken’s AI allocates resources to optimize performance and offer users a seamless mining experience.

    Key features include:

    • Mobile-friendly mining via web dashboard
    • Fast sign-up and instant mining
    • AI-optimized resource management
    • $100 free credit for new users
    • No maintenance, electricity, or cooling costs
    • Supports LTC, BTC, DOGE, ETH, and BCH

    For Litecoin enthusiasts, this means accessible mining without financial or technical barriers.

    Mining Plans: Designed for Daily Activity

    MiningToken’s platform features multiple LTC-compatible mining plans supported by real hashrate from a global network of mining centers. These plans are tailored to enable users to engage with the mining process efficiently without investing in physical infrastructure.

    MiningToken offers a wide range of plans hosted across international data centers. Visit Official Website for full details.

    How to Start Mining LTC in Minutes

    Here’s how you can start mining Litecoin with MiningToken right away:

    1. Sign-up – Register your account at www.miningtoken.com.
    2. Claim Your $100 Bonus – A $100 bonus will be credited to your account automatically.
    3. Pick a Plan – Choose from a variety of mining contracts based on your budget and preferences.
    4. Activate Mining – Start mining with your selected plan. Track your progress via your dashboard.
    5. Withdraw Earnings – Withdraw your rewards or reinvest them to scale up your mining activities.

    All features are accessible through both desktop and mobile devices, making it easy to control your mining at any time.

    Security and Sustainability First

    MiningToken supports responsible mining by integrating clean energy and high-level security standards.

    Security features include:

    • Two-factor authentication (2FA)
    • Encrypted cloud wallets
    • Cold storage mechanisms
    • Secure transaction processing

    A Better Way to Mine Litecoin

    Litecoin mining no longer requires expensive hardware or extensive technical knowledge. MiningToken transforms this traditionally resource-heavy activity into a simple, web-based solution. Anyone—from students to investors—can now participate in real-time crypto mining using just a smartphone.

    MiningToken’s system offers a user-friendly, sustainable, and accessible way to engage with Litecoin mining—backed by an AI-driven infrastructure designed to improve efficiency while reducing environmental impact.

    Conclusion

    Whether you’re new to crypto or an experienced trader, MiningToken provides a smart, secure, and accessible way to mine LTC using your phone. With its free $100 sign-up bonus, AI optimization, and energy-efficient data centers, anyone can begin exploring cloud mining within minutes.

    Visit www.miningtoken.com to claim your free bonus and start mining Litecoin today.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Q: Can I mine Litecoin using only the $100 bonus?
    Yes, you can use the sign-up bonus to purchase a mining contract and begin receiving mining rewards without any investment.

    Q: Is MiningToken available internationally?
    Yes. MiningToken services are not region-locked and are accessible globally.

    Q: How is MiningToken different from other mobile mining apps?
    Unlike mining simulation apps, MiningToken connects users to real hashpower and delivers actual mining rewards based on contract performance.

    Q: How do I receive my profits?
    Mining earnings are credited to your wallet daily. Withdrawals are available once the minimum threshold is met.

    Disclaimer:
    The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. Cryptocurrency mining and staking involve risk. There is potential for loss of funds. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: MiningToken Becomes the First to Enable Litecoin Cloud Mining on Mobile Devices, Opening a New Path for LTC Investors

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Brisbane, June 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Rise of Mobile Litecoin Cloud Mining

    Being called the silver to Bitcoin’s golden one, Litecoin (LTC) has become incredibly popular due to its high speed of transactions, cheap fixed commissions, and good reputation in the crypto community. However, even though Litecoin is still ranked among the top 20 cryptocurrencies, it has traditionally been rather difficult to mine, home to costly, special equipment, technical skills, and enormous energy demands, until recently.

    A mobile-friendly cloud mining platform has emerged, enabling users to mine Litecoin easily from their smartphones. No hardware is required, no electric cost, and it does not need a complex setup. To sweeten the deal, all new users are entitled to a free-of-charge credit of $100, allowing them to begin mining immediately.

    This innovation places MiningToken among the few platforms that accommodate mobile-based Litecoin cloud mining—giving more people an opportunity to earn LTC without spending money on installing physical infrastructure.

    What Makes MiningToken Ideal for Litecoin Mining?

    MiningToken is a secure and convenient provider of cloud mining infrastructure supported by mining farms on an industrial scale. Some of these farms are situated in countries such as Canada, Iceland, and Paraguay where energy sources are primarily renewable—hydroelectric, geothermal, and wind—making the system efficient and environmentally conscious.

    Instead of relying on physical mining rigs, users rent hashpower through short-term contracts. MiningToken’s AI allocates resources to optimize performance and offer users a seamless mining experience.

    Key features include:

    • Mobile-friendly mining via web dashboard
    • Fast sign-up and instant mining
    • AI-optimized resource management
    • $100 free credit for new users
    • No maintenance, electricity, or cooling costs
    • Supports LTC, BTC, DOGE, ETH, and BCH

    For Litecoin enthusiasts, this means accessible mining without financial or technical barriers.

    Mining Plans: Designed for Daily Activity

    MiningToken’s platform features multiple LTC-compatible mining plans supported by real hashrate from a global network of mining centers. These plans are tailored to enable users to engage with the mining process efficiently without investing in physical infrastructure.

    MiningToken offers a wide range of plans hosted across international data centers. Visit Official Website for full details.

    How to Start Mining LTC in Minutes

    Here’s how you can start mining Litecoin with MiningToken right away:

    1. Sign-up – Register your account at www.miningtoken.com.
    2. Claim Your $100 Bonus – A $100 bonus will be credited to your account automatically.
    3. Pick a Plan – Choose from a variety of mining contracts based on your budget and preferences.
    4. Activate Mining – Start mining with your selected plan. Track your progress via your dashboard.
    5. Withdraw Earnings – Withdraw your rewards or reinvest them to scale up your mining activities.

    All features are accessible through both desktop and mobile devices, making it easy to control your mining at any time.

    Security and Sustainability First

    MiningToken supports responsible mining by integrating clean energy and high-level security standards.

    Security features include:

    • Two-factor authentication (2FA)
    • Encrypted cloud wallets
    • Cold storage mechanisms
    • Secure transaction processing

    A Better Way to Mine Litecoin

    Litecoin mining no longer requires expensive hardware or extensive technical knowledge. MiningToken transforms this traditionally resource-heavy activity into a simple, web-based solution. Anyone—from students to investors—can now participate in real-time crypto mining using just a smartphone.

    MiningToken’s system offers a user-friendly, sustainable, and accessible way to engage with Litecoin mining—backed by an AI-driven infrastructure designed to improve efficiency while reducing environmental impact.

    Conclusion

    Whether you’re new to crypto or an experienced trader, MiningToken provides a smart, secure, and accessible way to mine LTC using your phone. With its free $100 sign-up bonus, AI optimization, and energy-efficient data centers, anyone can begin exploring cloud mining within minutes.

    Visit www.miningtoken.com to claim your free bonus and start mining Litecoin today.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Q: Can I mine Litecoin using only the $100 bonus?
    Yes, you can use the sign-up bonus to purchase a mining contract and begin receiving mining rewards without any investment.

    Q: Is MiningToken available internationally?
    Yes. MiningToken services are not region-locked and are accessible globally.

    Q: How is MiningToken different from other mobile mining apps?
    Unlike mining simulation apps, MiningToken connects users to real hashpower and delivers actual mining rewards based on contract performance.

    Q: How do I receive my profits?
    Mining earnings are credited to your wallet daily. Withdrawals are available once the minimum threshold is met.

    Disclaimer:
    The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. Cryptocurrency mining and staking involve risk. There is potential for loss of funds. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: MiningToken Becomes the First to Enable Litecoin Cloud Mining on Mobile Devices, Opening a New Path for LTC Investors

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Brisbane, June 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Rise of Mobile Litecoin Cloud Mining

    Being called the silver to Bitcoin’s golden one, Litecoin (LTC) has become incredibly popular due to its high speed of transactions, cheap fixed commissions, and good reputation in the crypto community. However, even though Litecoin is still ranked among the top 20 cryptocurrencies, it has traditionally been rather difficult to mine, home to costly, special equipment, technical skills, and enormous energy demands, until recently.

    A mobile-friendly cloud mining platform has emerged, enabling users to mine Litecoin easily from their smartphones. No hardware is required, no electric cost, and it does not need a complex setup. To sweeten the deal, all new users are entitled to a free-of-charge credit of $100, allowing them to begin mining immediately.

    This innovation places MiningToken among the few platforms that accommodate mobile-based Litecoin cloud mining—giving more people an opportunity to earn LTC without spending money on installing physical infrastructure.

    What Makes MiningToken Ideal for Litecoin Mining?

    MiningToken is a secure and convenient provider of cloud mining infrastructure supported by mining farms on an industrial scale. Some of these farms are situated in countries such as Canada, Iceland, and Paraguay where energy sources are primarily renewable—hydroelectric, geothermal, and wind—making the system efficient and environmentally conscious.

    Instead of relying on physical mining rigs, users rent hashpower through short-term contracts. MiningToken’s AI allocates resources to optimize performance and offer users a seamless mining experience.

    Key features include:

    • Mobile-friendly mining via web dashboard
    • Fast sign-up and instant mining
    • AI-optimized resource management
    • $100 free credit for new users
    • No maintenance, electricity, or cooling costs
    • Supports LTC, BTC, DOGE, ETH, and BCH

    For Litecoin enthusiasts, this means accessible mining without financial or technical barriers.

    Mining Plans: Designed for Daily Activity

    MiningToken’s platform features multiple LTC-compatible mining plans supported by real hashrate from a global network of mining centers. These plans are tailored to enable users to engage with the mining process efficiently without investing in physical infrastructure.

    MiningToken offers a wide range of plans hosted across international data centers. Visit Official Website for full details.

    How to Start Mining LTC in Minutes

    Here’s how you can start mining Litecoin with MiningToken right away:

    1. Sign-up – Register your account at www.miningtoken.com.
    2. Claim Your $100 Bonus – A $100 bonus will be credited to your account automatically.
    3. Pick a Plan – Choose from a variety of mining contracts based on your budget and preferences.
    4. Activate Mining – Start mining with your selected plan. Track your progress via your dashboard.
    5. Withdraw Earnings – Withdraw your rewards or reinvest them to scale up your mining activities.

    All features are accessible through both desktop and mobile devices, making it easy to control your mining at any time.

    Security and Sustainability First

    MiningToken supports responsible mining by integrating clean energy and high-level security standards.

    Security features include:

    • Two-factor authentication (2FA)
    • Encrypted cloud wallets
    • Cold storage mechanisms
    • Secure transaction processing

    A Better Way to Mine Litecoin

    Litecoin mining no longer requires expensive hardware or extensive technical knowledge. MiningToken transforms this traditionally resource-heavy activity into a simple, web-based solution. Anyone—from students to investors—can now participate in real-time crypto mining using just a smartphone.

    MiningToken’s system offers a user-friendly, sustainable, and accessible way to engage with Litecoin mining—backed by an AI-driven infrastructure designed to improve efficiency while reducing environmental impact.

    Conclusion

    Whether you’re new to crypto or an experienced trader, MiningToken provides a smart, secure, and accessible way to mine LTC using your phone. With its free $100 sign-up bonus, AI optimization, and energy-efficient data centers, anyone can begin exploring cloud mining within minutes.

    Visit www.miningtoken.com to claim your free bonus and start mining Litecoin today.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Q: Can I mine Litecoin using only the $100 bonus?
    Yes, you can use the sign-up bonus to purchase a mining contract and begin receiving mining rewards without any investment.

    Q: Is MiningToken available internationally?
    Yes. MiningToken services are not region-locked and are accessible globally.

    Q: How is MiningToken different from other mobile mining apps?
    Unlike mining simulation apps, MiningToken connects users to real hashpower and delivers actual mining rewards based on contract performance.

    Q: How do I receive my profits?
    Mining earnings are credited to your wallet daily. Withdrawals are available once the minimum threshold is met.

    Disclaimer:
    The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. Cryptocurrency mining and staking involve risk. There is potential for loss of funds. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Safeguarding the security interests of all Member States in the context of Türkiye’s possible inclusion in the EU defence programme SAFE – E-001528/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU leadership has recurrently underlined that the EU has a strategic interest in a stable and secure environment in the Eastern Mediterranean and in the development of a cooperative and mutually beneficial relationship with Türkiye[1].

    Türkiye is a candidate country, a key partner in several areas of joint interest and a longstanding partner in the Common Security and Defence Policy .

    Nonetheless, accession negotiations with the country remain at a standstill since 2018, as Türkiye has not reversed the negative trend of continued deterioration of democratic standards noted in the past years[2].

    Respect of rule of law and progressive alignment with the EU Common Foreign and Security Policy are integral parts of the EU-Türkiye relationship.

    The EU recognises the contribution of all non-EU Allies, including Türkiye, to the European and Transatlantic security. The EU is engaging with Türkiye on a phased, proportionate and reversible manner in line with the November 2023 recommendations of the Joint Communication on the state of play of the EU-Türkiye relations[3] and the conclusions of the European Council of April 2024[4].

    The White Paper for European Defence Readiness 2030[5] recalls that EU actions will take into consideration the security and defence interests of all Member States, while reaffirming the key role that like-minded partners can play to strengthen European security and defence.

    The proposed Regulation on Security Action for Europe[6] is under discussion in the Council and the conditions for cooperation with partners will be settled in this regulation, once adopted, following a two-step approach: first, joining joint procurement activities; second, negotiating an agreement with the EU to allow its defence industry to supply Member States.

    • [1] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/m5jlwe0p/euco-conclusions-20240417-18-en.pdf.
    • [2] https://enlargement.ec.europa.eu/document/download/7c67aed6-e7c2-47de-b3f8-b3edd26a3e26_en?filename=COM_2024_690_1_EN_ACT_part1_v11.pdf.
    • [3] https://enlargement.ec.europa.eu/system/files/2023-11/Joint%20Communication%20to%20the%20European%20Council%20-%20State%20of%20play%20of%20EU-Turkiye%20political%2C%20economic%20and%20trade%20relations.pdf.
    • [4] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/m5jlwe0p/euco-conclusions-20240417-18-en.pdf.
    • [5] https://defence-industry-space.ec.europa.eu/eu-defence-industry/introducing-white-paper-european-defence-and-rearm-europe-plan-readiness-2030_en.
    • [6] https://defence-industry-space.ec.europa.eu/document/download/6d6f889c-e58d-4caa-8f3b-8b93154fe206_en?filename=SAFE%20Regulation.pdf.
    Last updated: 26 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Utah Man Indicted after Allegedly Shooting a Stolen Semi-Automatic Pistol at Two Victims in Salt Lake City

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – A federal grand jury returned and indictment charging a restricted person with multiple firearm crimes after he allegedly possessed a stolen semi-automatic pistol and shot at two victims in Salt Lake City.

    Hiram Bokadrik, 29, of Salt Lake County, Utah, was charged by complaint on June 11, 2025.

    According to court documents, on June 7, 2025 at approximately 4:18 p.m., officers with the Salt Lake City Police Department responded to a call of “shots fired” at a residence in Salt Lake City. Upon arrival, officers met with two individuals who reported a male suspect, later identified as Bokadrik, had fired a single round at them when confronted about trespassing on their property. During this time, officers recovered an expended 9mm casing from the scene. Additional officers quickly located Bokadrik, who fled from the officers on foot, but was subsequently located in a construction area hiding underneath a tarp. On construction materials, officers also recovered a loaded Glock 43X and a hat described to be worn by Bokadrik at the time of the crime.

    Additionally, the investigation revealed the firearm, which was manufactured outside the state of Utah, was stolen during a vehicle burglary at a nearby residence at approximately 12:00 a.m. on the same day. Bokadrik is prohibited from possessing, purchasing, transferring, or owning firearms or ammunition under both state and federal law.

    Bokadrik is charged with being a restricted person in possession of a stolen firearm and ammunition, and possession of a stolen firearm. His initial appearance on the indictment is scheduled for June 26, 2025, at 2:15 p.m. in courtroom 8.4 before a U.S. Magistrate Judge at the Orrin G. Hatch United States District Courthouse in downtown Salt Lake City.

    Acting United States Attorney Felice John Viti for the District of Utah made the announcement.

    The case is being investigated by an FBI Task Force Officer with the Salt Lake City Police Department, Robbery and Violent Crimes Unit. Valuable assistance was provided by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

    Assistant United States Attorney Victoria K. McFarland of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah is prosecuting the case.

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

    An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. 
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Castor, Sen. Luján Introduce Legislation to Expand Access to Affordable, Clean Solar Energy

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Reprepsentative Kathy Castor (FL14)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) introduced legislation to expand a Department of Energy initiative that encourages community solar projects nationwide and increase accessibility to energy produced by lower-cost solar power. The Community Solar Consumer Choice Act of 2025 will increase access to solar energy throughout the Tampa Bay area for all residents, regardless of their income. Sen. Ben Ray Luján (NM) has introduced companion legislation in the U.S. Senate.

    “Clean, affordable energy should be within reach for everyone—especially in Florida, the Sunshine State. Unfortunately, nearly half of all households and businesses can’t install rooftop solar because they rent, share buildings or can’t afford the upfront costs.

    “That’s where community solar comes in. It allows neighbors to share the benefits of nearby solar projects—saving them money on their electric bills without needing solar panels on their own roof.

    “This bill helps expand these initiatives, especially for working families. It supports states and local governments, creates jobs, and helps cut harmful pollution. By boosting access to shared solar energy and investing in storage, each community solar project creates $14 million in local economic investment and over 90 jobs.

    “I’m proud to stand with my Congressional partners and dedicated advocates in fighting for a cleaner, healthier and more affordable energy future for all,” said Rep. Castor.

    “As the climate crisis intensifies and Republican lawmakers push to cut clean energy funding, fighting for practical solutions like community solar is more critical than ever,” said Sen. Luján. “I’m proud to reintroduce the Community Solar Consumer Choice Act to expand access to solar power through community solar projects for all Americans and create more good-paying, clean energy jobs. This bill is a step forward in combating the climate crisis, and I look forward to working with Representative Castor to get this bill passed.”

    A full list of supporting quotes can be found here.

    House Cosponsors: Reps. Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Julia Brownley (CA-26), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Doris Matsui (CA-07), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), and Paul Tonko (NY-21).

    Supporting Organizations: Coalition for Community Solar Access, Evergreen Action, GreenLatinos, League of Conservation Voters, Moms Clean Air Force, Natural Resources Defense Council, New Mexico Climate Investment Center, Sierra Club, Solar Energy Industries Association, WE ACT for Environmental Justice

    View the legislative text here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 463

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

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

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 463
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    1255 PM CDT Thu Jun 26 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Northeast Iowa
    Southeast Minnesota
    Southwest Wisconsin

    * Effective this Thursday afternoon and evening from 1255 PM
    until 800 PM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A few tornadoes possible
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph likely

    SUMMARY…An emerging cluster of thunderstorms ahead of a surface
    low and along a warm front will pose some risk of tornadoes and
    damaging wind gusts through the afternoon.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 55 statute miles
    north and south of a line from 50 miles north northwest of Mason
    City IA to 10 miles southeast of Camp Douglas WI. For a complete
    depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update
    (WOUS64 KWNS WOU3).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

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

    &&

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 1 inch. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
    storm motion vector 27030.

    …Hart

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW3
    WW 463 TORNADO IA MN WI 261755Z – 270100Z
    AXIS..55 STATUTE MILES NORTH AND SOUTH OF LINE..
    50NNW MCW/MASON CITY IA/ – 10SE VOK/CAMP DOUGLAS WI/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 50NM N/S /47NNW MCW – 23NW DLL/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..1 INCH. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 27030.

    LAT…LON 44619371 44629013 43039013 43029371

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

    Watch 463 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Mod (50%)

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

    Low (20%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    Mod (60%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Low (20%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Low ( 2 inches

    Low (

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy, Colleagues Introduce AUKUS Improvement Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    June 25, 2025

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy, a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, joined a group of seven of his Senate colleagues in introducing the AUKUS Improvement Act. Building upon the bipartisan, AUKUS-enabling legislation in the FY24 National Defense Authorization Act, the AUKUS Improvement Act will further streamline defense industrial base collaboration and co-production between the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom.

    “AUKUS is a historic partnership that helps protect U.S. national security interests in the Indo-Pacific. This legislation will strengthen our alliance with Australia and the United Kingdom and keep the submarine production AUKUS depends upon on track. The bill will also further the work of Electric Boat, its unparalleled workforce, and the many innovative small businesses across Connecticut and the United States that power our submarine industrial base,” Murphy said.

    The AUKUS Improvement Act would:

    1. Exempt State Department-vetted entities that have been approved as AUKUS Authorized Users from the requirement to obtain Third Party Transfer approvals under Foreign Military Sales. 
    1. Exempt Australia and the United Kingdom from the need for Congressional Notification for overseas manufacturing.

    In the last five years, Australia has placed $23 billion in Foreign Military Sales (FMS) orders, making it one of the biggest users of the FMS process. FMS ensures Australia is procuring the exact same variant that the U.S. military uses, enabling greater interoperability. It also supports American deployed forces operating in Australia through access to spare parts. Australia is often required to transfer elements of equipment procured through FMS to industry for further development, operation, maintenance, and sustainment. In order to do this, it must obtain written consent from the State Department in the form of a Third Party Transfer (TPT) request. However, the TPT process can be slow, with applications often taking many months before being approved. By making TPTs made under FMS subject to similar export controls to those made under AUKUS for Direct Commercial Sales (DCS), the AUKUS Improvement Act will get capability in the hands of our allies faster.

    In March 2021, Australia established the Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordinance (GWEO) Enterprise to expand its munitions and missile stockpiles, establish domestic manufacturing of guided weapons, and supplement international partners’ supply chains. As part of this announcement, Australia and the U.S. agreed to collaborate on a flexible guided weapons production capability in Australia, with an initial focus on the potential for co-production of Guided Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (GMLRS) by 2025, and eventual co-production of the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM).

    However, the Arms Export Control Act requires Congressional Notification (CN) 15 days prior to approving a commercial technical assistance or manufacturing license agreement to manufacture significant military equipment abroad, regardless of the value. Currently, the State Department excludes any transfer of defense articles, technical data, or services that requires a CN from the license-free environment and expedited processing provisions under AUKUS. Therefore, Australia is required to obtain a Manufacturing License Agreement to receive the technical data and manufacturing know-how for each component of a precision-guided munition. This adds complexity, time, and cost, thereby limiting munitions co-production cooperation that benefits both the U.S. and Australia.

    U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), and Chris Coons (D-Del.) also cosponsored the bill.

    Full text of the bill is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Notice of Early Redemption – Amended (ISIN code: FR0000584377)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION IN OR INTO OR TO ANY JURISDICTION WHERE IT IS UNLAWFUL TO RELEASE, PUBLISH OR DISTRIBUTE THIS ANNOUNCEMENT (SEE “DISCLAIMER” BELOW).

    Paris, June 26th 2025

    Notice of Early Redemption (amended)

    To : (i)      The Noteholders of the below mentioned Notes;
    (ii)      Euronext Paris;
    (iii)      Fiscal Agent.

    Dear Sirs,

    Crédit Industriel et Commercial S.A.,
    Issuance of F 500 000 000 (€76 224 508),
    Undated Subordinatede Notes
    With the Isin code: FR0000584377 (the ‘’Notes’’)

    Crédit Industriel et Commercial S.A., (formerly “Compagnie Financière de Crédit Industriel et Commercial’’) is the issuer (the “Issuer’’) of the Notes.

    In accordance with the terms and conditions of the Notes (the ‘’Conditions’’), the Issuer hereby gives notice that it is exercising in whole its right to redeem the Notes pursuant to the provision Redemption (‘’Remboursement’’) of the Listing Particulars (“Issuer Call Option”) of the Notes.

    The Issuer instructs the Fiscal Agent to authorise the French Central Securities Depository to cancel the Notes redeemed on 21 July, 2025 (“Early Redemption Date”).

    For the purposes of the Issuer Call:

    (i) the Issuer Call Date will be 21 July, 2025; and

    (ii) the Optional Redemption Amount(s) or Early Redemption Amount excluding accrued interest is: 1.01 euros per Denomination.

    Notwithstanding the information provided in the Conditions of the Notes, Law No. 98-546 of July 2, 1998, implementing various economic and financial provisions, provided for the conversion of negotiable securities denominated in Francs into securities with a nominal value of one euro. Therefore, the Early Redemption amount is carried out based on a nominal value of one euro per Notes, and the accrued interest will be adjusted accordingly.

    Unless otherwise defined in this notice, capitalised terms used in this notice shall have the meaning given to them in the Listing Particulars (‘’Note d’Information’’) dated June, 1987, as applicable, relating to the Notes.

    Yours faithfully,

    For and on behalf of

    Crédit Industriel et Commercial S.A.,

    By Eric CUZZUCOLI

    Duly authorized

    DISCLAIMER
    This press release does not constitute an offer to purchase, or the solicitation of an offer to sell, the Instruments in the United States, Canada, Australia, or Japan or in any other jurisdiction, including France. The distribution of this press release in certain jurisdictions may be restricted by law. Persons into whose possession this press release comes are required to inform themselves and observe any such restrictions. No communication may be distributed to the public in any jurisdiction in which registration or approval is required. No action has been or will be taken in any jurisdiction where such action would be required; CIC disclaims any liability for any violation by any person of such restrictions.

    Contacts
    Corporate Communications and Press Relations Department: +33 (0)1 53 48 26 00 – compresse@cic.fr
    Investor Relations: bfcm-web@creditmutuel.fr

    About CIC
    CIC is a leading bank in France and internationally, and the bank of one in three businesses in France. It provides nearly 5.5 million customers with a French network of nearly 1,800 branches and 20,000 employees, as well as international branches in 37 countries. In order to meet the needs of all economic players and to build up a constantly efficient offer on a daily basis, it combines financial, insurance, telephony and cutting-edge technological services with a high level of financial solidity backed by that of its parent company, Crédit Mutuel Alliance Fédérale. For more information, visit cic.fr

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Notice of Early Redemption – Amended (ISIN code: FR0000584377)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION IN OR INTO OR TO ANY JURISDICTION WHERE IT IS UNLAWFUL TO RELEASE, PUBLISH OR DISTRIBUTE THIS ANNOUNCEMENT (SEE “DISCLAIMER” BELOW).

    Paris, June 26th 2025

    Notice of Early Redemption (amended)

    To : (i)      The Noteholders of the below mentioned Notes;
    (ii)      Euronext Paris;
    (iii)      Fiscal Agent.

    Dear Sirs,

    Crédit Industriel et Commercial S.A.,
    Issuance of F 500 000 000 (€76 224 508),
    Undated Subordinatede Notes
    With the Isin code: FR0000584377 (the ‘’Notes’’)

    Crédit Industriel et Commercial S.A., (formerly “Compagnie Financière de Crédit Industriel et Commercial’’) is the issuer (the “Issuer’’) of the Notes.

    In accordance with the terms and conditions of the Notes (the ‘’Conditions’’), the Issuer hereby gives notice that it is exercising in whole its right to redeem the Notes pursuant to the provision Redemption (‘’Remboursement’’) of the Listing Particulars (“Issuer Call Option”) of the Notes.

    The Issuer instructs the Fiscal Agent to authorise the French Central Securities Depository to cancel the Notes redeemed on 21 July, 2025 (“Early Redemption Date”).

    For the purposes of the Issuer Call:

    (i) the Issuer Call Date will be 21 July, 2025; and

    (ii) the Optional Redemption Amount(s) or Early Redemption Amount excluding accrued interest is: 1.01 euros per Denomination.

    Notwithstanding the information provided in the Conditions of the Notes, Law No. 98-546 of July 2, 1998, implementing various economic and financial provisions, provided for the conversion of negotiable securities denominated in Francs into securities with a nominal value of one euro. Therefore, the Early Redemption amount is carried out based on a nominal value of one euro per Notes, and the accrued interest will be adjusted accordingly.

    Unless otherwise defined in this notice, capitalised terms used in this notice shall have the meaning given to them in the Listing Particulars (‘’Note d’Information’’) dated June, 1987, as applicable, relating to the Notes.

    Yours faithfully,

    For and on behalf of

    Crédit Industriel et Commercial S.A.,

    By Eric CUZZUCOLI

    Duly authorized

    DISCLAIMER
    This press release does not constitute an offer to purchase, or the solicitation of an offer to sell, the Instruments in the United States, Canada, Australia, or Japan or in any other jurisdiction, including France. The distribution of this press release in certain jurisdictions may be restricted by law. Persons into whose possession this press release comes are required to inform themselves and observe any such restrictions. No communication may be distributed to the public in any jurisdiction in which registration or approval is required. No action has been or will be taken in any jurisdiction where such action would be required; CIC disclaims any liability for any violation by any person of such restrictions.

    Contacts
    Corporate Communications and Press Relations Department: +33 (0)1 53 48 26 00 – compresse@cic.fr
    Investor Relations: bfcm-web@creditmutuel.fr

    About CIC
    CIC is a leading bank in France and internationally, and the bank of one in three businesses in France. It provides nearly 5.5 million customers with a French network of nearly 1,800 branches and 20,000 employees, as well as international branches in 37 countries. In order to meet the needs of all economic players and to build up a constantly efficient offer on a daily basis, it combines financial, insurance, telephony and cutting-edge technological services with a high level of financial solidity backed by that of its parent company, Crédit Mutuel Alliance Fédérale. For more information, visit cic.fr

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: As Congressional Republicans Take An Axe To Clean Energy, Luján Reintroduces Commonsense Legislation To Expand Access To Solar Energy For Families And Businesses

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)
    Republican Lawmakers Are Working To Cut Funding For Clean Energy;
    Luján’s Bill Offers A Practical, Commonsense Solution For Our Energy Future
    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) reintroduced the Community Solar Consumer Choice Act, legislation that would support community solar projects and expand access to solar energy across the country, regardless of one’s income or ability to host a solar system on their roof. Directing more resources to expand renewable energy through community solar projects would lower energy costs for consumers, support good-paying jobs, and help combat the climate crisis. Representative Kathy Castor (D-FL) introduced companion legislation in the House.
    As Congressional Republicans continue to push their reconciliation bill that slashes clean energy investments that have helped create hundreds of thousands of jobs and lowered energy costs for hardworking families, Senator Luján is leading legislation to expand access to clean energy while creating good-paying jobs and lowering energy prices. Currently, nearly half of American households and businesses are unable to use rooftop solar systems due to high costs of installation or because they live in buildings that cannot host solar panels.
    “As the climate crisis intensifies and Republican lawmakers push to cut clean energy funding, fighting for practical solutions like community solar is more critical than ever,” said Senator Luján. “I’m proud to reintroduce the Community Solar Consumer Choice Act to expand access to solar power through community solar projects for all Americans and create more good-paying, clean energy jobs. This bill is a step forward in combating the climate crisis, and I look forward to working with Representative Castor to get this bill passed.”
    “Every family deserves access to affordable, clean energy—no matter their zip code or housing situation,” said Rep. Kathy Castor. “Too many Americans are locked out of rooftop solar because they rent their homes, live in multi-family buildings or can’t afford the upfront costs. The Community Solar Consumer Choice Act helps break down these barriers by expanding access to shared solar projects, allowing more Americans to save money on their electric bills and benefit from the clean energy economy. I’m thankful for Sen. Luján’s partnership in pushing for lower electric bills for Americans across the country. This bill empowers communities—especially working families, small businesses and Tribal governments—to participate in local solar projects that reduce energy costs, cut pollution and create good-paying jobs. It’s a win-win for working families and for our climate future.”
    Specifically, the Community Solar Consumer Choice Act would:
    Require the Department of Energy to expand existing grant, loan, and financing programs to include community solar programs and to establish a program to increase access to community solar programs, including through technical assistance;
    Require each electric utility to offer a community solar program that provides all ratepayers, including low-income ratepayers, with equitable access; 
    Allow the General Services Administration to offer a public utility contract for a period of up to 30 years – currently, the maximum is 10 years. 
    “The New Mexico Climate Investment Center is particularly focused on development of community solar facilities that are community-owned, tribal-owned, and those in rural electric cooperative districts of New Mexico. Such community solar facilities will need the technical assistance in developing such programs particularly to provide greater access to low-cost solar subscriptions for the most vulnerable households in our communities that they are targeting. This bill seeks to address the need for technical assistance and other types of support to provide greatest access to those subscribers. We are in support of Senator Lujan’s bill to provide such support,” said Beth Beloff, CEO of New Mexico Climate Investment Center.
    “The Community Solar Choice Act is exactly the kind of forward-thinking, commonsense energy policy we need to expand access to affordable clean energy for more Americans. Community solar delivers bill savings, energy resilience, and local jobs—especially for low- and moderate-income households. We’re grateful to Senator Luján and Representative Castor for championing this legislation and look forward to working with them to ensure community solar continues to grow as a vital part of the nation’s energy economy,” said Jeff Cramer, President and CEO, Coalition for Community Solar Access.
    “As extreme heat drives up electricity bills across the country, this legislation couldn’t come at a more urgent time. Americans are demanding relief from rising energy costs, and expanding community solar is a commonsense way to deliver it. Solar energy is cheaper and faster to build, but not everyone can install solar panels on their roof. Community solar offers a practical solution to ensure everyone, especially those in low-income neighborhoods facing the highest energy cost burdens, has the option to power their homes with affordable, reliable clean energy. We applaud Rep. Castor and Senator Lujan’s leadership in advancing this critical effort,” said Rachel Patterson, Senior Policy Director, Evergreen Action.
    “Ensuring families, particularly renters, have more choices to access cheaper, cleaner, local solar energy in their communities is a win-win-win. It’s good for families’ budgets, good for communities’ development and job creation, and good for our environment. Solar energy is the fastest electricity to get on the grid, and when it is local, or distributed, and especially when paired with battery storage, it is even better at stabilizing our grids and driving down costs for all communities and businesses,” said Matthew Davis, Vice President of Federal Policy, League of Conservation Voters.
    “Too many families—especially in communities overburdened by pollution—have been left out of the benefits of solar power. The Community Solar Consumer Choice Act is a critical step toward correcting that injustice. By expanding access to community solar, this bill helps ensure that low-income households and renters can finally share in the cost savings and cleaner air that solar energy provides. As parents, we support this legislation because it prioritizes previously overlooked communities, protects our children’s health, and builds a more just and sustainable energy future for all of us,” said Liz Hurtado (she/her), National Field Manager, EcoMadres, Moms Clean Air Force.
    “Community solar is one of the smartest and most reliable tools we have to lower electricity bills, reduce pollution, and build energy independence, especially for renters and low-income families who are too often left behind. The Community Solar Consumer Choice Act expands fairness and opportunity in our energy system by giving more Americans access to the benefits of affordable, domestic, clean power at a time when families need it most. This is common-sense policy that strengthens energy freedom, supports local jobs, and makes our communities more resilient,” said Xavier Boatright, Deputy Legislative Director, Sierra Club.
    The bill is endorsed by New Mexico Climate Investment Center, Coalition for Community Solar Access, Evergreen Action, GreenLatinos, League of Conservation Voters, Moms Clean Air Force, Natural Resources Defense Council, Sierra Club, Solar Energy Industries Association, WE ACT for Environmental Justice.
    Senator Luján has been a champion in advancing clean energy, previously introducing legislation that would require states to consider policies to promote the deployment of community solar projects.
    Full text of the bill can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner, Kaine Push for Swift Approval of Hampton Roads Veterans Affairs Medical Facility Lease

    US Senate News:

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

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) are urging the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works to swiftly take up and reapprove the authorization of 18 major Veterans Affairs (VA) medical facility leases, including a proposed lease for an outpatient clinic in Hampton Roads.

    The leases were originally authorized under the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act which Sens. Warner and Kaine strongly supported. However, updated cost estimates and rent bids triggered the VA and the General Services Administration (GSA) to seek reauthorization from four congressional committees: the Senate and House Veterans’ Affairs Committees, the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works (EPW), and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. To date, only the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee and House Transportation and Infrastructure committees have put forward resolutions to reapprove the leases.

    In a letter to the leaders of the EPW Committee, the senators stressed the current challenges veterans in Hampton Roads are facing when trying to access care. 

    “One of these impacted leases is for a new outpatient clinic in Hampton Roads, with a proposed size of 182,230 net usable square feet,” the senators wrote. “This proposed facility would serve a critical need in a high-density region that has increasing demand for VA services. Particularly for those veterans who live on the south side of Hampton Roads – home to more than 60 percent of the patient population at the Hampton VA Medical Center – this clinic would broaden care access, and provide increased services at a location more convenient to many of these veterans.”

    The senators continued, “Those associated with the region are all too familiar with challenges accessing care. The VA acknowledges through its own assessment, that the Hampton VAMC faces many physical challenges, such as frequent flooding and severe access difficulties for a large portion of the veterans it serves due to heavy traffic restricting area patients’ access to the VAMC. Hiring and recruitment challenges, in a state and region that are near the top of the list nationally in terms of share of veteran population, have contributed to challenges accessing timely care over the years. Looking forward, the VA estimates that the already sizable enrollee base in the region is expected to grow by upwards of 10 to 15 percent in the coming decades, leading to a patient population that could support multiple new VA medical centers and outpatient clinics.”

    Sens. Warner and Kaine have long fought to expand health care and benefits for Virginia’s nearly 700,000 veterans. Sens. Warner and Kaine began raising the alarm about the significant backlog of unapproved VA leases in 2016. After putting significant pressure on officials across the federal government, Congress unanimously passed the Providing Veterans Overdue Care Act, legislation written by Sen. Warner and supported by Sen. Kaine, to cut the backlog and get over two dozen delayed VA medical facilities’ leases approved.

    A copy of the letter is available here and below:

    Dear Chair Capito and Ranking Member Whitehouse,

    We write today to urge your committee to take up and pass a resolution approving of 18 major medical facility leases for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), which were originally authorized under the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act of 2022, and now await reapproval by relevant Congressional committees. This tranche of facility prospectuses includes a planned facility in the Hampton Roads region of Virginia, and so we encourage timely action by your committee.

    The PACT Act (P.L.117-168) included authorization and initial support funding for thirty-one veterans’ medical care and research facilities in nineteen states. In the intervening years from when the VA first calculated cost estimates for these projects, to the time they initiated conversations with local developers, the cost estimates for 18 of the facilities had increased. As such, the VA resubmitted those 18 prospectuses for their reapproval by Congressional committees.

    One of these impacted leases is for a new outpatient clinic in Hampton Roads, with a proposed size of 182,230 net usable square feet. This proposed facility would serve a critical need in a high-density region that has increasing demand for VA services. Particularly for those veterans who live on the south side of Hampton Roads – home to more than 60 percent of the patient population at the Hampton VA Medical Center – this clinic would broaden care access, and provide increased services at a location more convenient to many of these veterans.

    Those associated with the region are all too familiar with challenges accessing care. The VA acknowledges through its own assessment, that the Hampton VAMC faces many physical challenges, such as frequent flooding and severe access difficulties for a large portion of the veterans it serves due to heavy traffic restricting area patients’ access to the VAMC. Hiring and recruitment challenges, in a state and region that are near the top of the list nationally in terms of share of veteran population, have contributed to challenges accessing timely care over the years. Looking forward, the VA estimates that the already sizable enrollee base in the region is expected to grow by upwards of 10 to 15 percent in the coming decades, leading to a patient population that could support multiple new VA medical centers and outpatient clinics.

    In recognition of the need to streamline the process whereby Congress considers VA facility approvals and remove some the hurdles and delays to their being built, the PACT Act simplified the acquisition process. Under the law, re-approval of this slate of leases would require resolutions of approval by four Committees in Congress: the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, and the Senate Committee on the Environment and Public Works. As of our writing of this letter, the Senate Veterans’ Affairs and House Transportation and Infrastructure committees have passed resolutions of approval.

    We urge your committee to quickly consider and approve these leases. As always we appreciate your attention to these matters, as well as your efforts to conduct oversight and work with the Executive Branch on important matters impacting federal infrastructure. And we share your commitment to ensuring that veterans who have earned these services and care have the facilities needed to access them in a timely manner.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Proto Hologram Secures Federal Trademark for “Beam There”

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Los Angeles, June 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Proto Inc., the original holographic communications and AI spatial computing platform, has officially been awarded the trademark for the phrase “Beam There” by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). This marks a major milestone for Proto, whose patented technology has defined a new standard for real-time, lifelike presence across distance since 2018.

    Widely credited as the inventor of freestanding hologram devices, Proto also developed the proprietary software and operating system that powers them — enabling people to appear and interact remotely with stunning realism. Whether used live or powered by AI, Proto allows anyone to “beam” into another space and be seen, heard, and have a real sense of presence. Since the company’s breakout in 2020, “Beam There” has emerged as a natural shorthand for its sci-fi-inspired mission to dissolve the boundaries of time and geography.

    “So if I say to you, ‘Beam There’ — sounds familiar right?” said William Shatner, a Proto Hologram partner. “Proto hologram owns those words: ‘Beam there’… I was recently asked to speak at an important event in Australia. I couldn’t get there in person, but I was able to beam there — And now we can beam anywhere. There’s no telling where this technology will go.”

    Watch William Shatner talk about Proto’s “Beam There” trademark in hologram form

    David Nussbaum, Proto’s Founder, Inventor, and Chairman, said “This framed document might just look like another certificate… but for us at Proto Hologram, it’s a declaration of where the future is headed. ‘Beam There’ isn’t just a phrase — it’s our mission. From hospitals and classrooms to stages, stores, arenas, and living rooms — we’re enabling people to show up anywhere in the world, in real time, with full presence. Location is no longer a limitation.”

    The new trademark expands Proto’s already formidable IP portfolio, which includes multiple issued patents. It further protects the company’s brand leadership as others enter the hologram space — many inspired directly by Proto’s innovations. Proto continues to lead with AI-powered advancements, global partnerships, and commercial momentum, counting more than 20 Fortune 500 companies as clients or partners, 50 universities, teams from every U.S. pro sports league and the biggest names in entertainment. The company has been featured by every major news outlet and was recently honored by TIME, which named Nussbaum to the TIME100 Health List  for 2025.

    Nussbaum added, “We’re not just building hologram technology. We’re building a new language for spatial communication. To every sci-fi fan, tech optimist, and dreamer who ever wanted to teleport — the future is closer than ever. And we’re just getting started.”

    About Proto Inc.: Proto Inc. is the patented leader in hologram technology and AI spatial computing. Proto devices and its platform are in use across enterprise, finance, healthcare, education, retail, hospitality, sports and entertainment. Invented in Los Angeles and with showrooms and distribution partners around the globe, Proto distributes the large Proto Epic and Proto Luma, the desktop-sized Proto M2, and a suite of hologram AI and spatial computing services. Learn more at protohologram.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: The architecture of the new Queen Elizabeth II memorial aims to commemorate her as ‘a unifying force’

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Pippa Catterall, Professor of History and Policy, University of Westminster

    In the heart of London’s St James’s Park, where John Nash’s 200-year-old landscape has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, a new chapter is about to unfold. The site that has long served as the nation’s ceremonial backdrop will soon become home to something unprecedented: a memorial not just to a monarch, but to an entire era.

    The winner of the competition to design Queen Elizabeth II’s memorial has been announced, and perhaps it was inevitable that it would be Norman Foster.

    However, it was also clear that the memorial was intended to be a new national landmark that somehow encapsulated the queen and changed national values and identities during her long reign.

    Almost inevitably, it is to be situated in a Grade-I listed setting in St James’s Park, London. This presented designers with the further challenge of how to sensitively respond to John Nash’s historic landscape design across a site that spans the breadth of the park.

    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.

    After initial expressions of interest were sifted, the five candidates shortlisted in February had to come up with a master plan that was emotionally resonant and sustainable.

    It also had to be compatible with the existing use of this extensive site, not least as a thoroughfare presenting vistas of Buckingham Palace and Whitehall. This memorial therefore involved much more than the simple statues of the Queen’s father and grandfather that came before it.

    Even the memorial to Queen Victoria, undoubtedly the most commemorated woman in British history, is modest in scale compared to this new project.

    The Queen Elizabeth II memorial is clearly intended to be very different from Victoria’s imperial confection. The brief for the design specified that it had to be immediately comprehensible to peoples of all races and religions, respect the park’s wildlife, be easy to maintain and be reasonably vandal proof. Above all, the proposal had to evoke the late queen’s qualities and “tell the story of her long reign through integrated design, landscaping and placemaking”.

    The process was therefore an exercise in landscape architecture, rather than producing an artwork.

    The queen herself had considerable familiarity with architecture. During her reign, she opened 122 buildings in London alone, as well as iconic buildings around the world, such as Sydney Opera House.

    The queen described the latter as “a splendid achievement of engineering and architecture”. Her similar enthusiasm when opening the Barbican in London suggests that her architectural tastes were less traditional than her eldest son’s.

    Yet there was no dominant school of architecture among the buildings she opened, nor a New Elizabethan style that defined her reign. It would be impossible to evoke the eclectic architecture range of her reign without pastiche.

    However, if there was no defining architecture, there arguably was a defining architect – the nonagenarian Sir Norman Foster. A working-class lad from Manchester who built a globally renowned architectural brand, his architectural career, which commenced in 1956, nearly coincides with the queen’s reign.

    During that reign, many of the significant buildings she opened, such as Stansted Airport, were designed by Foster. In his career, he has won every major architectural award and produced major landmark buildings all over the world. In consequence, he has been described as the “perfect architect for his era”.

    With all due respect to the acclaimed teams of designers he was competing with, it therefore seems appropriate that his firm, Foster + Partners, should have been chosen to evoke the reign of a monarch during which his buildings featured so prominently.

    A ‘unifying force’

    To win the bid, Foster + Partners had to assemble a multidisciplinary team, including the British artist Yinka Shonibare. Their proposal was felt to address many of the dualities of the Queen’s reign: tradition and modernity, public duty and private faith and the relationship between the UK and the Commonwealth that was always dear to Elizabeth II’s heart.

    To express these dualities, their master plan provided for two gates and two gardens, united by a path and a new translucent bridge over the park’s lake. As Foster reflected, this was intended to convey the queen’s role “as a unifying force”.

    Probably one factor that worked in their favour was the significance given to the Duke of Edinburgh. The firm’s suggestion of a statue of the royal couple together is unusual. The statues of the queen’s parents, in contrast, are separate if adjacent on a staircase on the north side of The Mall facing the park where their daughter’s memorial will appear. This plan brings her back together with the beloved husband she so missed after his death in 2021. It’s a move that the queen would no doubt have thoroughly approved.

    The design concept will, of course, be refined. The architectural renders at present can only give a glimpse of what the memorial landscape will look like in practice, let alone convey the ambience it seeks to evoke. Such details will need to be developed before the designs are submitted for planning permission.

    Nevertheless, it does seem appropriate that, for an era that defies architectural categorisation it should reflect the vision of the man who, more than any other, has been the architect of the age.

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

    – ref. The architecture of the new Queen Elizabeth II memorial aims to commemorate her as ‘a unifying force’ – https://theconversation.com/the-architecture-of-the-new-queen-elizabeth-ii-memorial-aims-to-commemorate-her-as-a-unifying-force-259843

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Operation Interflex reaches three-year milestone

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Operation Interflex reaches three-year milestone

    UK-led training programme of Ukrainian recruits launched on 26 June 2022.

    Crown copyright

    More than 56,000 Ukrainian soldiers have been trained by the UK and 13 partner nations on Operation Interflex; the UK-led, multination training programme.  

    Today (Thursday 26 June 2025) marks three years since the first Ukrainian trainees landed on British soil to begin the vital military training that turns civilians into soldiers capable of returning home to repel Russia’s illegal invasion of their country.  

    During this time Operation Interflex has continued to evolve to match the specific threats being faced on the frontlines in Ukraine. A variety of training programmes have been delivered via Operation Interflex focussed on equipping trainees with the battlefield essentials: the basic infantry course, leadership training, and instructor courses, which continuously adapt to Ukraine’s needs. 

    Led by the UK, Operation Interflex has been delivered alongside 13 other partner nations: Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Denmark, Finland, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Albania, Estonia, Kosovo, Lithuania, and Romania. Service personnel from these nations are united in the objective to deliver high quality training that meets the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.  

    At a recent meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group (UDCG) on the 4 June, the Defence Secretary announced that the UK will spend a further £247m this year on training the Armed Forces of Ukraine, supporting Operation Interflex’s highly successful training programmes. This funding not only supports Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression, but it is also vital in ensuring both European and UK security, underpinned by the Government’s Plan for Change.  

    Recent polling data reveals that 90% of all the trainees who have completed Interflex training since January 2025 feel more confident in their lethality and survivability at the end of training. The polling also revealed that one of the most valued elements of the training is the battlefield first aid, with 93% of basic recruits saying they felt more confident about treating casualties after receiving the training.  

    Minister for the Armed Forces, Luke Pollard MP said: 

    From each Ukrainian soldier made combat-ready on UK soil, to the £13bn committed in military support, we are proud of every element of our contribution to Ukraine’s fight against Russia’s illegal invasion.  

    The Government is clear that providing military support to Ukraine is essential to both UK and European security. Keeping the country safe is the Government’s first priority, and a foundation of its Plan for Change. 

    The UK and its allies are united in our support for Ukraine. I am sure they share my constant awe of the resilience shown by the Ukrainian people in the face of Russian aggression.” 

    Colonel Andrew Boardman, Commanding Officer of Operation Interflex: 

    Today marks three years since the launch of Operation INTERFLEX to train Ukrainian personnel in the UK. Over this period, the multinational coalition of 14 nations, led by the UK, has trained over 56,000 Ukrainian soldiers, a testament to the enduring strength and shared resolve of our international partnership.  

    This milestone reflects not only our unity of purpose but our unwavering commitment to Ukraine’s freedom and NATO’s collective security.” 

    The UK is proud to be a leading partner in providing vital support to Ukraine. The government has committed £13 billion of military aid for Ukraine, with £4.5 billion expected to be provided this year. This military aid includes training programmes like Operation Interflex, but also military capabilities and equipment such as drones, air defence systems and munitions.  

    The UK and Ukraine’s allies are committed to supporting Ukraine secure a just and lasting peace. The training effort provided by Operation Interflex aims to put Ukraine in the strongest possible position to achieve this peace and to safeguard their sovereignty and our collective security against Russian aggression.

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 June 2025

    Invasion of Ukraine

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth, Booker Renew Push to Ban the U.S. Sale and Manufacturing of “K-Leather” and Protect Kangaroos from Largest Commercial Slaughter in the World

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth
    June 25, 2025
    [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Cory Booker (D-NJ) reintroduced legislation to ban the sale and manufacturing of products made from kangaroo skin, also known as “k-leather.” After years of the two lawmakers leading the charge on this issue, this week Mizuno and UMBRO joined cleat manufacturing giants—including Nike, Adidas, Puma and ASICS—in pledging to halt production of k-leather in their soccer cleats and other products. To help build on this momentum, reverse this inhumane trend and safeguard the kangaroo species from commercial exploitation, Senators Duckworth and Booker are introducing the Kangaroo Protection Act, which would help protect millions of wild kangaroos and their innocent babies who are needlessly killed every year for the use of their leather in commercial products. Additionally, this legislation would empower the Secretary of Commerce, in consultation with other agencies, to issue civil and criminal penalties of fines up to $10,000 and other regulations.
    “The mass killing of millions of kangaroos to make commercial products is needless and inhumane,” said Senator Duckworth. “While it is encouraging that more and more cleat manufacturers are pledging to stop using k-leather, the U.S. must stop incentivizing this cruel practice once and for all. I’m proud to reintroduce this bill with Senator Booker that would help prevent the deadly exploitation of kangaroos and promote the use of more humane alternatives to k-leather.”
    “We should not allow the unnecessary killing of animals just so that big corporations can maximize profits,” said Senator Booker. “This legislation will help conserve the kangaroo species by ensuring that no one in the United States can distribute kangaroo products for commercial gain.”
    The commercial slaughter of kangaroos isn’t just widespread—it’s unnecessarily cruel. It uses similar killing methods and is ten times larger than the infamously brutal Canadian seal hunt, which prompted the United States to ban the import of seal pelts in 1972. Despite having similar import bans for other animals, the U.S. is currently the second largest commercial market for k-leather products in the world. The Senators’ proposed legislation would help change that.
    Copy of the bill text is available on Senator Duckworth’s website.
    “It’s profit from the sale of skins and other body parts that drives the killing of more than a million kangaroos a year in their native habitats in Australia,” said Wayne Pacelle, president of Animal Wellness Action and the Center for a Humane Economy. “Senator Duckworth’s bill is a tremendous complement to the decisions by all the big athletic shoe brands to halt sourcing of kangaroo skins for cleats and her measure has the potential to spare the lives of hundreds of thousands of the iconic marsupials every year.”
    This legislation is supported by 13 Hands Equine Rescue Team (Clinton Corners, NY), A Place Called Hope (Killingworth, CT), A Voice for the Voiceless (Louisville, KY), Alaqua Animal Refuge & Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, (Freeport, FL), Albuquerque Vegan (NM), Alliance for Animals (Madison, WI), Allied Scholars for Animal Protection, Angels Grove Ranch and Horse Rescue (Bush, LA), Animal & Earth Advocates (Seattle, WA), Animal Advocates of South Central Pennsylvania, Animal Alliance Network, Animal Behavior and Healing (Portland, ME), Animal Care Society (Mathews, VA), Animal Education & Rescue (Libertyville, IL), Animal Kindness Foundation (Las Vegas, NV), Animal Protection Affiliates (NV), Animal Protection League of New Jersey, Animal Protection New Mexico, Animal Rights Foundation of Florida, Animal Rights Initiative, Animal Rights Maine, Animal Save Movement, Animal Welfare Society (Kennebunk, ME), Animal Wellness Action, Animal Wellness Foundation, Animals’ Angels, Anonymous for the Voiceless – Las Vegas (NV), Arizona Humane Society, Arrow Fund (Louisville, KY), Associated Humane Societies, Ballydídean Farm Sanctuary (Clinton, WA), Basin and Range Watch (NV), Berkeley Animal Rights Center (CA), Berkshire Voters for Animals (MA), Bleating Hearts Sanctuary (Golden, CO), Blissful Dreams Rescue Ranch (Huger, SC), Boulder Bear Coalition (CO), Bucky’s Bull Rescue (Cedar Grove, WI), Cedar Cove Conservation & Education Center (Louisburg, KS), Center for, Ethical Science, Charleston Carriage Horse Advocates (SC), Chicago Alliance for Animals (IL), Christian Animal Rights Association, Citizens for Alternatives to Animal Research and Experimentation (CAARE), Climate Save Movement, Coalition for NYC Animals, Inc. (NY), Coalition to Ban Horse-Drawn Carriages (NY), Colorado Voters for Animals, Compassionate Action for Animals (Minneapolis, MN), Compassionate & Responsible Tourism (NY), Connecticut Votes for Animals, DC Voters for Animals, Dead Broke Farm (Raleigh, NC), Defend Them All Foundation (Portland, OR), Difference Makers Media (Wilmette, IL), Direct Action Everywhere (Berkeley, CA), EarthAction, Emerald City Pet Rescue (Seattle, WA), Endangered Habitats League (West Hollywood, CA), Endangered Species Coalition, Environmental Protection Information Center (CA), Equine Collaborative International, Equine Voices Rescue & Sanctuary (Amado, AZ), Erika’s Equine Center (Nerstrand, MN), Exotic Avian Sanctuary of Tennessee, Fair Start Movement, Fayette Regional Humane Society (Washington Court House, OH), Federation of Humane Organizations of West Virginia, Fish Feel, Footloose Montana, Forever Home Beagle Rescue (Pittsburgh, PA), Four Paws USA (Boston, MA), Friends of Animals of Metro Detroit (MI), Friends of the Merry Meeting Bay (Richmond, ME), Friends of the Wisconsin Wolf and Wildlife, Friends of Washoe (Ellensburg, WA), Georgia Animal Rights and Protection, Georgia Equine Rescue League, Ginger’s Pet Rescue (Seattle, WA), Global Coalition of Farm Sanctuaries, Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries, Good Karma Pet Rescue (Pompano Beach, FL), Great Spirit Animal Sanctuary (Snowflake, AZ), Green Mountain Animal Defenders (Burlington, VT), Grit and Grace Farm & Wildlife Rehabilitation (Cynthiana, KY), Hanaeleh Horse Rescue and Advocacy (Trabuco Canyon, CA), Harmony Farm Sanctuary (Bend, OR), Heart of Alabama (Killen, AL), Heartland Equine Rescue (IN), Heartwood Haven (Roy, WA), Hope Haven Farm Sanctuary (Sewickley, PA), Hot Springs Village Animal Welfare League (AR), Hotchkiss Humane Society (CT), Houston Animal Activism (TX), Howling for Wolves (Hopkins, MN), Humane Action Pennsylvania, Humane Action Pittsburgh (PA), Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh (PA), Humane Long Island (NY), Humane Society of Central Arizona, Humane Society of Huron Valley (MI), Humane Voters of Washington, In Defense of Animals, In-Sync Wildlife Rescue and Educational Center (Wylie, TX), Indiana Skunk Rescue (North Salem), Indraloka Animal Sanctuary (Dalton, PA), Indraloka Sanctuary Children’s Programs (Dalton, PA), Iowa Farm Sanctuary, Jefferson County Humane Society (OH), Jewish Vegan Life, Keepers of the Wild (Valentine, AZ), Kentuckians Vote for Animals, Kindred Spirits, Rescue Ranch (Darlington, PA), Klamath Forest Alliance (CA), LA Animal Save (Los Angeles, CA), Lancaster Farm Sanctuary (PA), League of Humane Voters – Georgia, League of Humane Voters – New Jersey, Liberty Equine (Park City, UT), Los Angeles Alliance for Animals (CA), Luvin Arms Farm Animal Sanctuary (Erie, CO), Madrean Archipelago Wildlife Center (Canelo, AZ), Magical Creatures Sanctuary (Laupahoehoe, HI), Maine Animal Coalition, Maine Friends of Animals, Marley’s Mutts (Tehachapi, CA), Maryland Votes for Animals, Inc., Massachusetts for Elephants, Massachusetts Society for the, Prevention of Cruelty to Animals – Angell, Mauritius Primate Rescue, Mayor’s Alliance for NYC’s Animals (NY), Michelson Center for Public Policy, Misfits Coven Animal Haven (Pittsburgh, PA), Mississippi Animal Rescue League, Monmouth County SPCA (Eatontown, NJ), My Pegasus Project (Duncanville, TX), Nevada Paws – The Link, New Hampshire Animal Rights League, Noah’s, Lost Ark Animal Sanctuary (Berlin Center, OH), North Country Animal League (Morrisville, VT), Northeast Equine Rescue (West Newbury, ME), NYC Plover Project (New York City, NY), NYCLASS (New York City, NY), Ocean Conservation Research, Oceanic Preservation Society , OceansWide (Newcastle, ME), Off the Plate Farm Animal Sanctuary (Montgomery, VT), Oregon Animal Rescue, Oregon Horse Rescue, Out to Pasture Animal Sanctuary (Estacada, OR), Off the Table Farm Sanctuary (Westfield, WI), Open Sanctuary Project, Ozarks, Kat and K9 Shelter (Sunrise Beach, MO), Palm Springs Animal Shelter (CA), Panhandle Equine (Cantonment, FL), Partnership to Ban Horse Carriages Worldwide, Pasado’s Safe Haven (Sultan, WA), Patchwork Pastures (Wantage, NJ), Pawsitive Beginnings, Inc. (Key Largo, FL), Peace Ridge Sanctuary (Brooks, ME), Peaceful Planet Foundation, Peaceful Prairie Sanctuary (Deer Trail, CO), People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), Phoenix Zones Initiative, Piedmont Farm Animal Rescue (Pittsboro, NC), Pigsburgh Squealers (Tarentum, PA), Pittie Posse Rescue (ME), Pittsburgh Vegan Society (PA), Plant Based in Baja (CA), Plant-Based Treaty, Plant Peace Daily (Glorieta, NM), Pollination Project (Marin County, CA), Possums Welcome (San Rafael, CA), Potter’s Angels Rescue (Montpelier, VT), Pride & Joy Horse Rescue (Fargo, ND), Project Animal Freedom (Eureka, MO), Protect Our Wildlife Vermont, Rainbow Meadows Equine Rescue (Junction City, KS), Red Robin Song Animal Sanctuary (West Lebanon, NY), Revolution Philadelphia (PA), Rise for Animals, Rocket, Dog Rescue (Oakland, CA), Rowdy Girl Sanctuary (Waedler, TX), Safe Haven Wildlife Sanctuary (Imlay, NV), Sanctuary Education Advisory Specialists (East Hartford, CT), Santa Fe Vegan (NM), Santa Paula Animal Rescue Center (CA), Save Our Sky Blue Waters (Duluth, MN), Save Your Ass Long Ear Rescue (South Acworth, NH), SHARK (Showing Animals Respect and Kindness), Social Compassion in Legislation (Laguna Beach, CA), Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Los Angeles (spcaLA), Southern Cross Animal Rescue, (Laurel, MS), SPCA International, SPCA of Hancock County (ME), Species United (Brooklyn, NY), Spirit’s Promise Equine Rescue (Riverhead, NY), Stray Dog Support, Inc., Supporting and Promoting Animal Ethics for the Animal Kingdom (SPEAK) (Tucson, AZ), Switch4Good (Irvine, CA), Tahoe Wolf Center (CA), TevaLand Sanctuary Farm (Hillburn, NY), Texas Humane Legislation Network, The Animal Law Office (San Rafael, CA), The Buddy Fund (New York City, NY), The Center for a Humane Economy, The Parrot Club (Hartford, CT), The Urban Wildlands Group (Los Angeles, CA), The Wild Animal Sanctuary (Keenesburg, CO), Their Turn, Think Wild (Bend, OR), Trailsafe Nevada, Tulsa Vegan Guide (OK), Turtle Island Restoration Network (CA/TX), Unitarian Universalist Animal Ministry (Boulder, CO), Urban Acres Horse Farm (Omaha, NE), Urban Wildlife Research Project (CA), Vegan Organic Network, Vegan Pittsburgh (PA), Veganville Animal Sanctuary (Seaside, OR), VegMichigan, VENDX (Edgewater, FL), Vermont Wildlife Patrol, Victorian Kangaroo Alliance, Voice for Animals (York, ME), Voices of Wildlife in New Hampshire, Voters for Animal Rights (Brooklyn, NY), West Virginia Voters for Animal Welfare, Western Massachusetts Animal Rights Advocates, Western Wildlife Outreach (WA), WildAid (San Francisco, CA), Wildcare Oklahoma, Wildcat Creek Wildlife Center, Inc. (Delphi, IN), Wildlife for All, Wildlife in Crisis (Weston, CT), Wildlife Rescue & Rehabilitation, Inc. (San Antonio, TX), Wildlife Watch, Inc., World Vegan Vision (Paterson, NJ), Wynnwood Wildlife Rehabilitation Center (Elizabethton, TN), Wyoming Untrapped and Wyoming Wildlife Advocates.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: AI innovation and insights for educators on display at ISTELive 25 June 29-July 2

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: AI innovation and insights for educators on display at ISTELive 25 June 29-July 2

    Learn about AI features for educators coming to Microsoft 365 Copilot, Copilot Chat for teens, and insights from the 2025 AI in Education Report.

    We’re announcing new AI features for educators coming to Microsoft 365 Copilot and Copilot+ PCs, general availability of Copilot Chat for teen students, our 2025 AI in Education Report, and more.

    We’re inspired by innovative teaching, leading, and learning and excited to share new insights, features for educators and students, and resources to help you get started. Join us in-person at ISTELive 25 and ASCD Annual 25, June 29 – July 2, 2025, in San Antonio, Texas to explore the latest from Microsoft Education with solutions that spark joyful learning and equip educators with AI skills.

    Explore details in the Tech Community blog

    Insights from the 2025 AI in Education Report

    In times of change and innovation, the need for insights and examples of impact becomes increasingly important. That’s why we’re sharing the 2025 AI in Education Report which highlights key findings across AI usage, concerns, and opportunities alongside learnings and progress from global institutions.

    Read the 2025 AI in Education Report

    According to the report, AI in education is advancing daily with over 80% of surveyed educators using AI this year, up 21 points from last year as its role expands from just an assistant to a thought partner and force multiplier. At the same time, approximately one in three surveyed United States K-12 educators still lack confidence in using AI effectively and responsibly and more than half of surveyed students report that they have not received AI training.1

    It’s critical to engage with students, educators, and all community stakeholders to address challenges, learn together, and co-develop the path forward. Further, we need to collectively prepare for an AI-powered future and support students in building relevant AI skills as every industry and discipline evolves. Read the report for an overview and even more insights.

    Teachers are saying, ‘I need training, it needs to be high quality, relevant, and job-embedded…’ In reality, people require guidance and that means teachers and administrators going through professional development.

    Pat Yongpradit, Chief Academic Officer, TeachAI

    Enhancing instruction with Microsoft 365 Copilot and Microsoft Learning Zone

    Microsoft 365 Copilot delivers the latest AI innovations whether through reasoning agents like Researcher and Analyst, or advanced functionality like Copilot Tuning. Institutions such as Brisbane Catholic Education and Miami Dade College are saving time to reinvest into meaningful work and beginning to explore new capabilities like agents. We’re also collaborating with Learning Management System (LMS) providers like Canvas and Moodle to take the power of agents a step further by supporting integration with Copilot through open-source, customizable samples.

    We told our staff: you have permission to try, and permission to fail. That opened the door for teachers to test Microsoft 365 Copilot and Copilot Chat without fear of judgment or wasted time. And guess what? Most of the time, those experiments don’t fail—they spark new ways of thinking.

    Shane Tooley, Assistant Principal Curriculum, St. Peter Claver College, Brisbane Catholic Education

    We recently introduced the updated Microsoft 365 Copilot app, your hub for the latest functionality and later this year in preview, for AI-powered features for educators. In one place, educators will be able to easily create lesson plans, draft materials like quizzes and rubrics, and quickly make modifications like translation, adjusted reading levels, length, difficulty, alignment to relevant standards, and more.

    We’re announcing Microsoft Learning Zone, a free, AI-powered learning app and the first Copilot+ PC experience purpose built for educators to create personalized, adaptive learning activities.2 Formerly known as the code name Project Spark, the experience will launch in public preview later this summer on Copilot+ PCs, including Microsoft Surface, and across the Windows ecosystem. It’s powered by new AI innovation, learning science, educator input, and features like lesson creation, customizable tools to meet learning goals, and data-driven insights.

    Microsoft Learning Zone is built on collaborations with organizations such as NASA, The Economist Educational Foundation, PBS NewsHour, Figma, and Minecraft Education to bring real-world relevance into the classroom. It also includes integration with Kahoot! to generate interactive games and OpenStax for content from vetted open educational resources.

    Using Microsoft Learning Zone in the classroom has been an exciting opportunity to explore innovative ways to engage students. I was impressed by the app’s intuitive layout and how easily I could edit and share content with my class. While still in its early stages, Learning Zone shows great potential for helping teachers create AI-driven educational resources.

    Terry Borko, Teacher of Social Studies and Media, Red Deer Lake School

    Preparing students for academic and career success

    Students at the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University and University of South Carolina are already seeing academic and career preparedness gains with Microsoft 365 Copilot. Copilot Notebooks are now included, and we’re looking forward to bringing even more value with a study guide experience, in preview later this year. Study guide creation is designed to help students, or educators, turn scattered materials into an organized study space with engaging learning activities and content like podcasts instantly. It will include flashcards, fill in the blanks, matching exercises, quizzes, and the ability to review progress.

    In some job interviews recently, I’ve actually been asked about my experience with AI and if I know how to use it efficiently to help manage workflows. Copilot will really help students stay at the forefront of today’s changing world and make them more marketable.

    Emma Ernst, Public Relations Student, University of South Carolina

    In May 2025, we announced that teen student availability for Copilot Chat and Microsoft 365 Copilot would be coming this summer. We’re now sharing that general availability is expected in late July 2025. To prepare, administrators should review guidance to enable Copilot Chat for students and help ensure appropriate access.

    Enable Copilot Chat access for students

    Copilot Chat is included with Microsoft 365 at no additional cost and offers secure AI chat powered by GPT-4o with the ability to maintain IT control through enterprise data protection and management. It also includes features like file upload, image generation, Copilot Pages, and agents. We’re optimistic about the opportunities that lie ahead to help students increase their agency and build skills to prepare for future success. Read more about use cases, reflections, and advice from our global private preview educators and students in the announcement blog and from Johns Creek High School in the following video.

    We’re looking forward to continuing to add education value to Microsoft 365 Copilot and you can review the details, learn about additional updates like the Microsoft 365 Education Learning Tools Interoperability (LTI®), and join our preview communities through the Education Tech Community blog.

    Explore details in the Tech Community blog

    As AI usage and innovation increases, so does the need for training resources that empower educators and students alike. We’re continuing to provide opportunities to build essential skills—from immersive activities in Minecraft Education AI Foundations, to equipping preservice educators with ISTE+ASCD, providing hands-on cybersecurity experience for students, and offering GitHub Certifications on Microsoft Learn and Pearson VUE.

    We’ll also continue highlighting new evidence of impact such as the recent World Bank study in Nigeria, where a pilot program deployed Copilot, which stated that a “cost-effectiveness analysis revealed substantial learning gains, equating to 1.5 to years of ‘business as usual’ schooling, situating the intervention among some of the most cost-effective programs to improve learning outcomes.”

    Additional resources

    • Microsoft Education AI Toolkit – Designed to guide school leaders through the process of planning for and integrating AI across the institution.
    • 2025 AI in Education Report – Learn more about the latest insights on AI in Education from Microsoft.
    • AI strategies from the frontlines of higher education – Read the recent IDC White Paper, sponsored by Microsoft and explore perspectives from academic and IT leaders.
    • AI Classroom Toolkit – Try this creative resource to introduce AI to teen students that blends engaging narrative stories with instructional information for an immersive and informative learning experience.
    • Copilot Chat Adoption Kit – Review the collection of resources for IT, educators, and parents and caregivers to get started with Copilot Chat.
    • Minecraft Education AI Foundations – Build AI literacy with Agent and Chicken! AI Foundations offers accessible on-ramps with lessons, immersive content, parent resources, and fun animated videos. Stay tuned for new content coming later this year and join the training cohort to learn more.

    Learning from others

    1 Survey Data – 2025 AI in Education Report

    2 Microsoft Learning Zone is available with a Copilot+ PC and Microsoft Education license (A1, A3, A5). Initial availability will be English only.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: AI innovation and insights for educators on display at ISTELive 25 June 29-July 2

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: AI innovation and insights for educators on display at ISTELive 25 June 29-July 2

    Learn about AI features for educators coming to Microsoft 365 Copilot, Copilot Chat for teens, and insights from the 2025 AI in Education Report.

    We’re announcing new AI features for educators coming to Microsoft 365 Copilot and Copilot+ PCs, general availability of Copilot Chat for teen students, our 2025 AI in Education Report, and more.

    We’re inspired by innovative teaching, leading, and learning and excited to share new insights, features for educators and students, and resources to help you get started. Join us in-person at ISTELive 25 and ASCD Annual 25, June 29 – July 2, 2025, in San Antonio, Texas to explore the latest from Microsoft Education with solutions that spark joyful learning and equip educators with AI skills.

    Explore details in the Tech Community blog

    Insights from the 2025 AI in Education Report

    In times of change and innovation, the need for insights and examples of impact becomes increasingly important. That’s why we’re sharing the 2025 AI in Education Report which highlights key findings across AI usage, concerns, and opportunities alongside learnings and progress from global institutions.

    Read the 2025 AI in Education Report

    According to the report, AI in education is advancing daily with over 80% of surveyed educators using AI this year, up 21 points from last year as its role expands from just an assistant to a thought partner and force multiplier. At the same time, approximately one in three surveyed United States K-12 educators still lack confidence in using AI effectively and responsibly and more than half of surveyed students report that they have not received AI training.1

    It’s critical to engage with students, educators, and all community stakeholders to address challenges, learn together, and co-develop the path forward. Further, we need to collectively prepare for an AI-powered future and support students in building relevant AI skills as every industry and discipline evolves. Read the report for an overview and even more insights.

    Teachers are saying, ‘I need training, it needs to be high quality, relevant, and job-embedded…’ In reality, people require guidance and that means teachers and administrators going through professional development.

    Pat Yongpradit, Chief Academic Officer, TeachAI

    Enhancing instruction with Microsoft 365 Copilot and Microsoft Learning Zone

    Microsoft 365 Copilot delivers the latest AI innovations whether through reasoning agents like Researcher and Analyst, or advanced functionality like Copilot Tuning. Institutions such as Brisbane Catholic Education and Miami Dade College are saving time to reinvest into meaningful work and beginning to explore new capabilities like agents. We’re also collaborating with Learning Management System (LMS) providers like Canvas and Moodle to take the power of agents a step further by supporting integration with Copilot through open-source, customizable samples.

    We told our staff: you have permission to try, and permission to fail. That opened the door for teachers to test Microsoft 365 Copilot and Copilot Chat without fear of judgment or wasted time. And guess what? Most of the time, those experiments don’t fail—they spark new ways of thinking.

    Shane Tooley, Assistant Principal Curriculum, St. Peter Claver College, Brisbane Catholic Education

    We recently introduced the updated Microsoft 365 Copilot app, your hub for the latest functionality and later this year in preview, for AI-powered features for educators. In one place, educators will be able to easily create lesson plans, draft materials like quizzes and rubrics, and quickly make modifications like translation, adjusted reading levels, length, difficulty, alignment to relevant standards, and more.

    We’re announcing Microsoft Learning Zone, a free, AI-powered learning app and the first Copilot+ PC experience purpose built for educators to create personalized, adaptive learning activities.2 Formerly known as the code name Project Spark, the experience will launch in public preview later this summer on Copilot+ PCs, including Microsoft Surface, and across the Windows ecosystem. It’s powered by new AI innovation, learning science, educator input, and features like lesson creation, customizable tools to meet learning goals, and data-driven insights.

    Microsoft Learning Zone is built on collaborations with organizations such as NASA, The Economist Educational Foundation, PBS NewsHour, Figma, and Minecraft Education to bring real-world relevance into the classroom. It also includes integration with Kahoot! to generate interactive games and OpenStax for content from vetted open educational resources.

    Using Microsoft Learning Zone in the classroom has been an exciting opportunity to explore innovative ways to engage students. I was impressed by the app’s intuitive layout and how easily I could edit and share content with my class. While still in its early stages, Learning Zone shows great potential for helping teachers create AI-driven educational resources.

    Terry Borko, Teacher of Social Studies and Media, Red Deer Lake School

    Preparing students for academic and career success

    Students at the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University and University of South Carolina are already seeing academic and career preparedness gains with Microsoft 365 Copilot. Copilot Notebooks are now included, and we’re looking forward to bringing even more value with a study guide experience, in preview later this year. Study guide creation is designed to help students, or educators, turn scattered materials into an organized study space with engaging learning activities and content like podcasts instantly. It will include flashcards, fill in the blanks, matching exercises, quizzes, and the ability to review progress.

    In some job interviews recently, I’ve actually been asked about my experience with AI and if I know how to use it efficiently to help manage workflows. Copilot will really help students stay at the forefront of today’s changing world and make them more marketable.

    Emma Ernst, Public Relations Student, University of South Carolina

    In May 2025, we announced that teen student availability for Copilot Chat and Microsoft 365 Copilot would be coming this summer. We’re now sharing that general availability is expected in late July 2025. To prepare, administrators should review guidance to enable Copilot Chat for students and help ensure appropriate access.

    Enable Copilot Chat access for students

    Copilot Chat is included with Microsoft 365 at no additional cost and offers secure AI chat powered by GPT-4o with the ability to maintain IT control through enterprise data protection and management. It also includes features like file upload, image generation, Copilot Pages, and agents. We’re optimistic about the opportunities that lie ahead to help students increase their agency and build skills to prepare for future success. Read more about use cases, reflections, and advice from our global private preview educators and students in the announcement blog and from Johns Creek High School in the following video.

    We’re looking forward to continuing to add education value to Microsoft 365 Copilot and you can review the details, learn about additional updates like the Microsoft 365 Education Learning Tools Interoperability (LTI®), and join our preview communities through the Education Tech Community blog.

    Explore details in the Tech Community blog

    As AI usage and innovation increases, so does the need for training resources that empower educators and students alike. We’re continuing to provide opportunities to build essential skills—from immersive activities in Minecraft Education AI Foundations, to equipping preservice educators with ISTE+ASCD, providing hands-on cybersecurity experience for students, and offering GitHub Certifications on Microsoft Learn and Pearson VUE.

    We’ll also continue highlighting new evidence of impact such as the recent World Bank study in Nigeria, where a pilot program deployed Copilot, which stated that a “cost-effectiveness analysis revealed substantial learning gains, equating to 1.5 to years of ‘business as usual’ schooling, situating the intervention among some of the most cost-effective programs to improve learning outcomes.”

    Additional resources

    • Microsoft Education AI Toolkit – Designed to guide school leaders through the process of planning for and integrating AI across the institution.
    • 2025 AI in Education Report – Learn more about the latest insights on AI in Education from Microsoft.
    • AI strategies from the frontlines of higher education – Read the recent IDC White Paper, sponsored by Microsoft and explore perspectives from academic and IT leaders.
    • AI Classroom Toolkit – Try this creative resource to introduce AI to teen students that blends engaging narrative stories with instructional information for an immersive and informative learning experience.
    • Copilot Chat Adoption Kit – Review the collection of resources for IT, educators, and parents and caregivers to get started with Copilot Chat.
    • Minecraft Education AI Foundations – Build AI literacy with Agent and Chicken! AI Foundations offers accessible on-ramps with lessons, immersive content, parent resources, and fun animated videos. Stay tuned for new content coming later this year and join the training cohort to learn more.

    Learning from others

    1 Survey Data – 2025 AI in Education Report

    2 Microsoft Learning Zone is available with a Copilot+ PC and Microsoft Education license (A1, A3, A5). Initial availability will be English only.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK-Argentina Bicentenary celebration

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    World news story

    UK-Argentina Bicentenary celebration

    Authorities from both countries commemorated 200 years of diplomatic relations yesterday with a musical evening at the Colon Theatre.

    Ambassador Hayes delivering her speech at Teatro Colón.

    The British Embassy in Argentina yesterday celebrated 200 years of diplomatic relations between both countries with a musical evening at the Colon Theatre. The event was attended by high-level authorities from the national government, businesspeople, members of the diplomatic corps, artists, scientists and civil society representatives.

    The gathering also represented Ambassador Kirsty Hayes’s formal farewell after four years as Head of Mission in Buenos Aires, and served as a prelude to the performance of the British opera Billy Budd which the theatre will be staging from next Tuesday, with a cast that includes artists from Argentina, the UK and other countries.

    Among the most prominent guests were the ministers of Justice, Mariano Cúneo Libarona; and Deregulation, Federico Sturzenegger; the former Chief of Staff Nicolás Posse and the former chancellor Diana Mondino; Secretaries for Foreign Affairs, Eduardo Bustamante; Mining, Luis Lucero; Finance, Pablo Quirno and the Fight against Drug Trafficking, Martín Verrier; the Head of the President’s Advisory Council, Demian Reidel; deputies Lucila Crexell, Fernando Iglesias, María Fernanda Araujo, Marcela Campagnoli and Pilar Ramírez; businessmen Gustavo Weiss, Jaime Campos, and Juan Martín Bulgheroni; the president of Conicet, Daniel Salamone; CABA’s Ministers for Economic Development, Hernán Lombardi, and for Infrastructure Pablo Bereciartúa; the Chief of the Armed Forces Joint Staff, Air Chief Marshal Xavier Isaac; the Navy Chief of Staff, Admiral Carlos María Allievi; and the Army Chief of Staff, General Carlos Alberto Presti, among others.

    On 2 February 1825, the UK and the United Provinces of the River Plate signed a Treaty of Friendship, Commerce and Navigation which established diplomatic relations between both countries. It was also the first act of recognition by a leading European power of the independence of the country that would later become known as the Argentine Republic. For this reason, the British Embassy will be celebrating the Bicentenary of diplomatic relations throughout the year with a number of commemorative events like yesterday’s gala at the Colon Theatre’s Golden Room.

    During her speech, Ambassador Hayes said:

    Over these 200 years we have experienced times of closeness and times of distance, but our common history has always been marked by respect, mutual admiration and, above all, by the will to build bridges”.

    She then spoke about her departure from Argentina:

    Tonight also has a very personal significance for me, as it is my last public event as British Ambassador to Argentina. I must confess that saying goodbye to this country is not easy. I am taking with me unforgettable memories, strong friendships and immense gratitude for the warm welcome I received in every one of the 24 provinces.

    With Argentine scientist Diego Golombek as host, the event gave guests the opportunity to enjoy the Prologue of Billy Budd, sung by British tenor Toby Spence and interpreted on the piano by the musical director of the production, Erik Nielsen. As well as an extract from the opera “Darwin in Patagonia”, and an adaptation of the symphony “¡Viva la libertad!” (Long Live Freedom!) composed by Lalo Schifrin and Rod Schejtman. Before the end, Schejtman himself gave an impromptu live performance in honour of Ambassador Hayes, combining the musical notes randomly selected by the Ambassador herself, by Minister Cúneo Libarona representing the Argentine government, and by Julio Aro, president of the No Me Olvides Foundation, whose mission is related to preserving the memory of those who fell in the 1982 conflict.

    The main sponsor of the event was the GREAT campaign – the UK’s country brand – whose motto is an invitation to “See Things Differently”, and the private sponsors was Standard Chartered.

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: LIS Technologies Inc. Announces Top Sponsorship of the East Tennessee Economic Council’s Nuclear Opportunities Workshop 2025 Conference

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Chief Technology Officer Dr Viktor Chikan is scheduled to participate in a panel discussion alongside other leading enrichment executives.

    Oak Ridge, Tennessee, June 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LIS Technologies Inc. (“LIST” or “the Company”), a proprietary developer of advanced laser technology and the only USA-origin and patented laser uranium enrichment company, today announced that it is the Nuclear Luminary sponsor of the upcoming Nuclear Opportunuties Workshop (NOW) 2025 Conference, to be held at the Knoxville Convention Center, on July 22-23, 2025.

    CTO Dr Viktor Chikan will take part in a panel discussion titled, “Nuclear Fuels – Enrichment and Fabrication,” which is scheduled to take place at 1:15pm on Tuesday, July 22nd, 2025.

    Figure 1 – LIS Technologies Inc. Announces Top Sponsorship of the East Tennessee Economic Council’s Nuclear Opportunities Workshop 2025 Conference.

    “Following a successful and informative experience at the NOW 2024 conference, I’m pleased that Viktor is returning for this year’s conference and join a panel focused on strengthening America’s nuclear-fuel supply chain,” said Christo Liebenberg, CEO and Co-Founder of LIS Technologies Inc. “Establishing our headquarters in Tennessee has shown us the depth of nuclear talent within the state, and I look forward to Viktor updating attendees on LIST’s progress in revitalizing the nation’s only patented laser-uranium-enrichment process to support the existing nuclear energy industry and help usher in the next generation of advanced nuclear reactors.”

    About LIS Technologies Inc.

    LIS Technologies Inc. (LIST) is a USA based, proprietary developer of a patented advanced laser technology, making use of infrared lasers to selectively excite the molecules of desired isotopes to separate them from other isotopes. The Laser Isotope Separation Technology (L.I.S.T) has a huge range of applications, including being the only USA-origin (and patented) laser uranium enrichment company, and several major advantages over traditional methods such as gas diffusion, centrifuges, and prior art laser enrichment. The LIST proprietary laser-based process is more energy-efficient and has the potential to be deployed with highly competitive capital and operational costs. L.I.S.T is optimized for LEU (Low Enriched Uranium) for existing civilian nuclear power plants, High-Assay LEU (HALEU) for the next generation of Small Modular Reactors (SMR) and Microreactors, the production of stable isotopes for medical and scientific research, and applications in quantum computing manufacturing for semiconductor technologies. The Company employs a world class nuclear technical team working alongside leading nuclear entrepreneurs and industry professionals, possessing strong relationships with government and private nuclear industries.

    In Dec 2024, LIS Technologies Inc. was selected as one of six domestic companies to participate in the Low-Enriched Uranium (LEU) Enrichment Acquisition Program. This initiative allocates up to $3.4 billion overall, with contracts lasting for up to 10 years. Each awardee is slated to receive a minimum contract of $2 million.

    For more information please visit: LaserIsTech.com

    For further information, please contact:
    Email: info@laseristech.com
    Telephone: 800-388-5492
    Follow us on X Platform
    Follow us on LinkedIn

    Forward Looking Statements

    This news release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In this context, forward-looking statements mean statements related to future events, which may impact our expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as “expects”, “anticipates”, “intends”, “plans”, “believes”, “will”, “should”, “could”, “would” or “may” and other words of similar meaning. These forward-looking statements are based on information available to us as of the date of this news release and represent management’s current views and assumptions. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, events or results and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may be beyond our control. For LIS Technologies Inc., particular risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements include but are not limited to the following which are, and will be, exacerbated by any worsening of global business and economic environment: (i) risks related to the development of new or advanced technology, including difficulties with design and testing, cost overruns, development of competitive technology, loss of key individuals and uncertainty of success of patent filing, (ii) our ability to obtain contracts and funding to be able to continue operations and (iii) risks related to uncertainty regarding our ability to commercially deploy a competitive laser enrichment technology, (iv) risks related to the impact of government regulation and policies including by the DOE and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission; and other risks and uncertainties discussed in this and our other filings with the SEC. Only after successful completion of our Phase 2 Pilot Plant demonstration will LIS Technologies be able to make realistic economic predictions for a Commercial Facility. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this news release. These factors may not constitute all factors that could cause actual results to differ from those discussed in any forward-looking statement. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as a predictor of actual results. We do not undertake to update our forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this news release, except as required by law.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Dubai-based director who falsified VAT returns banned after his four companies owed HMRC more than £1 million

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Dubai-based director who falsified VAT returns banned after his four companies owed HMRC more than £1 million

    Director submitted falsified documentation to reclaim VAT

    • Hassan Waqar has been disqualified as a director for 11 years after his four companies reclaimed almost £400,000 in VAT they were not entitled to 

    • The four companies – HN Restaurants Limited, Kiani Construction Limited, Moneemint Ventures Limited and Zoya Investments Limited – submitted falsified documents to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) or failed to provide supporting evidence for VAT repayment claims 

    • All four companies were struck-off the Companies House register between February and June 2023, with total debts to HMRC of more than £1.1 million in VAT assessments, penalties and interest

    The boss of four companies which owed HMRC more than £1 million, including £400,000 in VAT they falsely reclaimed, has been banned as a director. 

    Hassan Waqar was the director of HN Restaurants Limited, Kiani Construction Limited and Moneemint Ventures Limited when they submitted falsified documents to HMRC. 

    A fourth company, Zoya Investments Limited, failed to supply evidence to HMRC to support the repayment returns it had submitted. 

    The four companies owed HMRC more than £1.1 million in VAT and penalties when they were all struck-off the Companies House register during the first half of 2023. 

    Waqar, 30, who is now based in Dubai, has been disqualified as a company director for 11 years. 

    Victoria Edgar, Chief Investigator at the Insolvency Service, said: 

    Hassan Waqar submitted falsified documentation for VAT reclamations that his companies were not entitled to receive. 

    Our investigations found that he failed to provide supporting evidence for claims across multiple businesses, with over £1.1 million owed when these companies were struck off the Companies House register in 2023.

    The Insolvency Service is committed to taking action against directors who fail to meet their legal and financial obligations, protecting the integrity of the business environment and the tax system.

    HN Restaurants Limited was set up in May 2020 as a fast-food business. Kiani Construction Limited was a construction company incorporated in August 2021 which was involved in real estate sales. 

    Moneemint Ventures Limited, like HN Restaurants Limited, was established in May 2020, and was described by Waqar as a banking service platform. Zoya Investments Limited, incorporated in March 2021, traded in carrying out fitouts. 

    The four companies received a total of £396,982 in VAT repayments. 

    HN Restaurants Limited, Kiani Construction Limited and Moneemint Ventures Limited provided invoices to HMRC in support of their claims. HMRC contacted several of the suppliers who confirmed they had not issued the invoices to the companies. 

    Bank statements were provided by HN Restaurants Limited and Moneemint Ventures Limited to HMRC to support the repayment return, but they differed to the ones supplied by the banks. 

    Zoya Investments Limited did not provide any evidence to support its VAT repayment claims. 

    HMRC issued penalties to the four companies totalling £706,692. 

    The four companies were struck-off the Companies House register between February and June 2023. 

    Combined, the four companies owed £1,136,832 in VAT assessments, penalties and interest. 

    The Secretary of State for Business and Trade accepted a disqualification undertaking from Waqar, and his ban started on Thursday 26 June. 

    It prevents him from being involved in the promotion, formation or management of a company, without the permission of the court. 

    HMRC issued a joint and several liability notice to Waqar for HN Restaurants, making him personally responsible for paying the tax debts of the company.

    Further information

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Misconduct hearing into search of Child Q delivers findings

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Gross misconduct and misconduct has been proven for three officers involved in the search of Child Q.

    A disciplinary hearing found a number of allegations proven against trainee Detective Constable Kristina Linge, PC Victoria Wray and PC Rafal Szmydynski, each attached to Central East Command Unit which covers Hackney and Tower Hamlets.

    The hearing did not find that the officers were influenced by Child Q’s race, nor that was she subject to adultification.

    Commander Kevin Southworth said: “The experience of Child Q should never have happened and was truly regrettable.

    “We have sincerely apologised to Child Q since this incident happened. Again, I am deeply sorry to Child Q and her family for the trauma that we caused her, and the damage this incident caused to the trust and confidence Black communities across London have in our officers.

    “While the officers involved did not act correctly, we acknowledge there were organisational failings. Training to our officers around strip search and the type of search carried out on Child Q was inadequate, and our oversight of the power was also severely lacking.

    “This left officers, often young in service or junior in rank, making difficult decisions in complex situations with little information, support or clear resources to help their decision-making.

    “What happened to Child Q was a catalyst for change both for the Met and for policing nationally.

    “While we should not have needed an incident such as Child Q to check our approach, it has absolutely led us to improving our processes and significantly reducing the number of these types of searches carried out.

    “It’s crucial we get this right to ensure the impact on young people is minimised as far as possible.

    “Sadly, we know there are children in London being exploited to carry drugs and weapons for others as well as involved in criminality, so these types of searches have to remain within police powers. The work we have done since Child Q means we now have the right safeguards in place.”

    The search of Child Q took place on Thursday, 3 December 2020, when police were called to a Hackney school. Staff were concerned that a 15-year-old girl smelled strongly of cannabis and may have been in possession of drugs.

    Two female officers conducted a more thorough search of the girl, that exposed intimate parts, in the medical room at the school.

    No drugs were found.

    The Met voluntarily referred the matter to the Independent Office for Police Conduct in May 2021 following complaints received.

    The misconduct hearing concluded that the search on Child Q was unnecessary, inappropriate and disproportionate. It was carried out without authorisation from a more senior officer, without an appropriate adult present and a proper record was not made afterwards.

    The hearing found T/DC Linge and PC Szmydynsk breached standards of professional behaviour in relation to authority, respect and courtesy, orders and instructions, duties and responsibilities and discreditable contact at the level of gross misconduct.

    PC Wray breached standards in relation to authority, respect and courtesy, orders and instructions and duties and responsibilities at the level of misconduct.

    Allegations against all the officers that they breached the standards of professional behaviour for equality and diversity were not proven.

    Allegations that PC Szmydynski and TDC Linge breached standards for honesty and integrity for reportedly making a misleading record of the search were also not proven.

    The misconduct panel is now considering sanction.

    Progress since this case

    Ensuring the safeguarding of every child who is searched is an absolute priority.

    • Every strip search or more thorough search where intimate parts are exposed (an ‘MTIP search’ outside custody as carried out on Child Q) requires authorisation by a local officer of inspector rank. That inspector is also responsible for the administration of the search, including recording the rationale, and a mandatory safeguarding referral to relevant authorities. This has been cemented in our Metropolitan Police Service Children’s Strategy, published in September 2024.
    • We have issued guidance to every frontline officer across the Met on the correct process, including the requirement for an appropriate adult to be present during the strip search or MTIP search of a child.
    • We have linked in with policing nationally to share areas of learning from Child Q’s incident and ensure forces across the country are aligned.
    • Recognising the wider community concerns that this case has raised regardless of today’s outcome, the Met is currently training more than 20,000 frontline officers and staff as part of a New Met for London around the risk of adultification and how to ensure a child-first approach in every instance.
    • We continue to listen to communities and partners on what more we need to do around our processes. Hackney has an active community-led scrutiny panel which scrutinises the use of police powers across the borough.
    • We continue to work closely in partnership with schools across London to keep children safe and prevent and detect crime.
    • Following Child Q we reviewed all strip searches and MTIP searches across the Met and made a number of voluntary referrals to the IOPC. In a number of those cases the IOPC found officers acted correctly, in others we have progressed disciplinary matters and learning.
    • We continue to publish data, which shows how the figures have significantly fallen on these types of searches, both inside and outside of custody:

    Stops and Search – More Thorough Searches Dashboard | Tableau Public

    Custody Dashboard | Tableau Public

    For MTIP searches on those aged under 18:

    A total of 68 were carried out between 1 June 2023 and 31 May 2024. The positive outcome rate was 66.2 per cent (45 individuals).

    A total of 42 were carried out between 1 June 2024 and 31 May 2025. The positive outcome rate was 59.5 per cent (25 individuals).

    This shows a decrease over this period in the number of searches carried out of 38.2 per cent. The overall positive outcome rate for this period was 63.6 per cent.

    A positive outcome means when criminality of any type is detected following a search.

    The number of MTIPs carried out on under 18s over this period was 7.3 per cent of the total for all ages.

    The dashboard carries data from the last two years.

    Prior to that, between 25 May 2021 and 24 May 2022 – a full year before we made changes to policy as the result of Child Q – a total of 232 MTIP searches on children were carried out.

    Between 25 May 2022 and 24 May 2023 – a full year post policy change – a total of 101 MTIP searches on children were carried out.

    This is a 56 per cent decrease.

    On average in London, in the five years to 31 May 2025, we have each year seen 499 children (aged 17 and under) recorded as a victim of crime after being injured with a knife, not including domestic abuse related incidents.

    Tragically, during that five-year period, 59 of those children were fatally stabbed.

    An annual average of 432 children were arrested for possession with intent to supply drugs and an annual average of 1,626 were arrested for possession of an offensive weapon.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Japanese prime minister’s abrupt no-show at NATO summit reveals a strained alliance with the US

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Craig Mark, Adjunct Lecturer, Faculty of Economics, Hosei University

    Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has sent a clear signal to the Trump administration: the Japan–US relationship is in a dire state.

    After saying just days ago he would be attending this week’s NATO summit at The Hague, Ishiba abruptly pulled out at the last minute.

    He joins two other leaders from the Indo-Pacific region, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and South Korean President Lee Jae-myung, in skipping the summit.

    The Japanese media reported Ishiba cancelled the trip because a bilateral meeting with US President Donald Trump was unlikely, as was a meeting of the Indo-Pacific Four (IP4) NATO partners (Australia, New Zealand, South Korea and Japan).

    Japan will still be represented by Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya, showing its desire to strengthen its security relationship with NATO.

    However, Ishiba’s no-show reveals how Japan views its relationship with the Trump administration, following the severe tariffs Washington imposed on Japan and Trump’s mixed messages on the countries’ decades-long military alliance.

    Tariffs and diplomatic disagreements

    Trump’s tariff policy is at the core of the divide between the US and Japan.

    Ishiba attempted to get relations with the Trump administration off to a good start. He was the second world leader to visit Trump at the White House, after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

    However, Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariffs imposed a punitive rate of 25% on Japanese cars and 24% on all other Japanese imports. They are already having an adverse impact on Japan’s economy: exports of automobiles to the US dropped in May by 25% compared to a year ago.

    Six rounds of negotiations have made little progress, as Ishiba’s government insists on full tariff exemptions.

    Japan has been under pressure from the Trump administration to increase its defence spending, as well. According to the Financial Times, Tokyo cancelled a summit between US and Japanese defence and foreign ministers over the demand. (A Japanese official denied the report.)

    Japan also did not offer its full support to the US bombings of Iran’s nuclear facilities earlier this week. The foreign minister instead said Japan “understands” the US’s determination to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

    Japan has traditionally had fairly good relations with Iran, often acting as an indirect bridge with the West. Former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe even made a visit there in 2019.

    Japan also remains heavily dependent on oil from the Middle East. It would have been adversely affected if the Strait of Hormuz had been blocked, as Iran was threatening to do.

    Unlike the response from the UK and Australia, which both supported the strikes, the Ishiba government prioritised its commitment to upholding international law and the rules-based global order. In doing so, Japan seeks to deny China, Russia and North Korea any leeway to similarly erode global norms on the use of force and territorial aggression.

    Strategic dilemma of the Japan–US military alliance

    In addition, Japan is facing the same dilemma as other American allies – how to manage relations with the “America first” Trump administration, which has made the US an unreliable ally.

    Earlier this year, Trump criticised the decades-old security alliance between the US and Japan, calling it “one-sided”.

    “If we’re ever attacked, they don’t have to do a thing to protect us,” he said of Japan.

    Lower-level security cooperation is ongoing between the two allies and their regional partners. The US, Japanese and Philippine Coast Guards conducted drills in Japanese waters this week. The US military may also assist with upgrading Japan’s counterstrike missile capabilities.

    But Japan is still likely to continue expanding its security ties with partners beyond the US, such as NATO, the European Union, India, the Philippines, Vietnam and other ASEAN members, while maintaining its fragile rapprochement with South Korea.

    Australia is now arguably Japan’s most reliable security partner. Canberra is considering buying Japan’s Mogami-class frigates for the Royal Australian Navy. And if the AUKUS agreement with the US and UK collapses, Japanese submarines could be a replacement.

    Ishiba under domestic political pressure

    There are also intensifying domestic political pressures on Ishiba to hold firm against Trump, who is deeply unpopular among the Japanese public.

    After replacing former prime minister Fumio Kishida as leader of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) last September, the party lost its majority in the lower house of parliament in snap elections. This made it dependent on minor parties for legislative support.

    Ishiba’s minority government has struggled ever since with poor opinion polling. There has been widespread discontent with inflation, the high cost of living and stagnant wages, the legacy of LDP political scandals, and ever-worsening geopolitical uncertainty.

    On Sunday, the party suffered its worst-ever result in elections for the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly, winning its lowest number of seats.

    The party could face a similar drubbing in the election for half of the upper house of the Diet (Japan’s parliament) on July 20. Ishiba has pledged to maintain the LDP’s majority in the house with its junior coalition partner Komeito. But if the government falls into minority status in both houses, Ishiba will face heavy pressure to step down.

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

    – ref. Japanese prime minister’s abrupt no-show at NATO summit reveals a strained alliance with the US – https://theconversation.com/japanese-prime-ministers-abrupt-no-show-at-nato-summit-reveals-a-strained-alliance-with-the-us-259694

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Oil shocks in the 1970s drove rapid changes in transport. It could happen again if Middle East tensions continue

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Hussein Dia, Professor of Future Urban Mobility, Swinburne University of Technology

    The Image Bank/Getty

    As the world watches the US–Iran situation with concern, the ripple effect from these events are reaching global oil supply chains – and exposing their fragility.

    If Iran closes the Strait of Hormuz as it is considering, it would restrict the global oil trade and trigger energy chaos.

    Petrol in some Australian cities could hit A$2.50 a litre according to some economists. As global instability worsens, other experts warn price spikes are increasingly likely.

    What would happen next? There is a precedent: the oil shocks of the 1970s, when oil prices quadrupled. The shock drove rapid change, from more efficient cars to sudden interest in alternative energy sources. This time, motorists would likely switch to electric vehicles.

    If this crisis continues or if another one flares up, it could mark a turning point in Australia’s long dependence on foreign oil.

    What would an oil shock mean?

    Australia currently imports 80% of its liquid fuels, the highest level on record. If the flow of oil stopped, we would have about 50 days worth in storage before we ran out.

    Our cars, buses, trucks and planes run overwhelmingly on petrol and diesel. Almost three-quarters (74%) of these liquid fuels are used in transport, with road transport accounting for more than half (54%) of all liquid fuels. Australia is highly exposed to global supply shocks.

    The best available option to reduce dependence on oil imports is to electrify transport.

    How does Australia compare on EVs?

    EV uptake in Australia continues to lag behind global leaders. In 2024, EVs accounted for 9.65% of new car sales in Australia, up from 8.45% in 2023.

    In the first quarter of 2025, EVs were 6.3% of new car sales, a decline from 7.4% in the final quarter of 2024.

    Norway remains the global leader, with battery-electric passenger cars making up 88.9% of sales in 2024. The United Kingdom also saw significant growth – EVs hit almost 20% of new car registrations in 2024.

    In China, EVs made up 40.9% of new car sales in 2024. The 12.87 million cars sold represent three-quarters of total EV sales worldwide.

    One reason for Australia’s sluggishness is a lack of reliable public chargers. While charging infrastructure is expanding, large parts of regional Australia still lack reliable access to EV charging.

    Until recently, Australia’s fuel efficiency standards were among the weakest in the OECD. Earlier this year, the government’s new standards came into force. These are expected to boost EV uptake.

    Could global tensions trigger faster action?

    If history is any guide, oil shocks lead to long-term change.

    The 1970s oil shocks triggered waves of energy reform.

    When global oil prices quadrupled in 1973–74, many nations were forced to reconsider where they got their energy. A few years later, the 1979 Iranian Revolution caused another major supply disruption, sending oil prices soaring and pushing much of the world into recession.

    Huge increases in oil prices drove people to look for alternatives during the 1970s oil shocks.
    Everett Collection/Shutterstock

    These shocks drove the formation of the International Energy Agency in 1974, spurred alternative energy investment and led to advances in fuel-efficiency standards.

    Much more recently, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine pushed the European Union to face up to its reliance on Russian gas and find alternatives by importing gas from different countries and accelerating the clean energy shift.

    Clearly, energy shocks can be catalysts for long-term structural change in how we produce and consume energy.

    The new crisis could do the same, but only if policy catches up.

    If fuel prices shot up and stayed there, consumer behaviour would begin to shift. People would drive less and seek alternate forms of transport. Over time, more would look for better ways to get around.

    But without stronger support such as incentives, infrastructure and fuel security planning, shifting consumer preferences could be too slow to matter.

    A clean-energy future is more secure

    Cutting oil dependency through electrification isn’t just good for the climate. It’s also a hedge against future price shocks and supply disruptions.

    Transport is now Australia’s third-largest source of greenhouse gas emissions. Now that emissions are falling in the electricity sector, transport will be the highest emitting sector emissions source as soon as 2030.

    Building a cleaner transport system also means building a more resilient one. Charging EVs on locally produced renewable power cuts our exposure to global oil markets. So do biofuels, better public transport and smarter urban planning.

    Improving domestic energy resilience isn’t just about climate targets. It’s about economic stability and national security. Clean local energy sources reduce vulnerability to events beyond our control.

    What can we learn from China?

    China offers a compelling case study. The nation of 1.4 billion faces real oil security challenges. In response, Beijing has spent the past decade building a domestic clean energy ecosystem to reduce oil dependency and cut emissions.

    This is now bearing fruit. Last year, China’s oil imports had the first sustained fall in nearly two decades. Crude oil imports fell 1.5%, while oil refinery activity also fell due to lower demand.

    China’s rapid uptake of EVs has clear energy security benefits.
    pim pic/Shutterstock

    China’s green energy transition was driven by coordinated policy, industrial investment and public support for clean transport.

    China’s rapid shift to EVs and clean energy shows how long-term planning and targeted investment can pay off on climate and energy security.

    What we do next matters

    The rolling crises of 2025 present Australian policymakers a rare alignment of interests. What’s good for the climate, for consumers and for national security may now be the same thing.

    Real change will require more than sustained high petrol prices. It demands political will, targeted investment and a long-term vision for clean, resilient transport.

    Doing nothing has a real cost – not just in what we pay at the service station, but in how vulnerable we remain to events a long way away.

    Hussein Dia receives funding from the Australian Research Council, the iMOVE Australia Cooperative Research Centre, Transport for New South Wales, Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads, Victorian Department of Transport and Planning, and Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts.

    – ref. Oil shocks in the 1970s drove rapid changes in transport. It could happen again if Middle East tensions continue – https://theconversation.com/oil-shocks-in-the-1970s-drove-rapid-changes-in-transport-it-could-happen-again-if-middle-east-tensions-continue-259670

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI: KraneShares KOID ETF: Humanoid Robot Rings Nasdaq Opening Bell

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, June 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Krane Funds Advisors, LLC (“KraneShares”), a global asset management firm recognized for its innovative investment solutions, celebrated the launch of the KraneShares Global Humanoid and Embodied Intelligence Index ETF (Ticker: KOID). The historic event featured the first-ever humanoid robot to ring the iconic Nasdaq Opening Bell.

    “We are thrilled to bring the first humanoid to ring the opening bell at Nasdaq to celebrate our Global Humanoid ETF: KOID,” said Jonathan Krane, CEO of KraneShares. “This event is a testament to the rapid advancements in robotics and artificial intelligence that could transform our world.”

    Humanoid robots are already demonstrating impressive performance in human tasks in both factory and home settings. The Morgan Stanley Global Humanoid Model projects that there could be 1 billion humanoids and $5 trillion in annual revenue by 2050.1

    “Today’s historic bell ringing by a humanoid robot marks a new era for investing in robotics and AI,” said Giang Bui, Head of Equities and ETFs at Nasdaq. “Nasdaq is proud to support KraneShares and the launch of KOID as we celebrate innovation at the heart of global finance.”

    The humanoid robot featured in the bell-ringing ceremony is the Unitree G1 Ultimate, supplied by RoboStore, the official partner of Unitree. RoboStore has been collaborating with Unitree for several years to drive the distribution and development of robotics within the U.S. education system.

    “Robotics, especially humanoids, are on the verge of widespread adoption. The people accelerating this shift include educators and research teams like OpenMind, a Stanford-based group developing open-source robotics software,” said Teddy Haggerty, a representative from RoboStore. “Our goal at RoboStore is to get this technology into the hands of major universities, empowering the next generation of innovators.”

    RoboStore and OpenMind jointly customized the robot, named “Iris,” for the occasion. Iris runs on OM1, OpenMind’s open-source operating system for embodied artificial intelligence, demonstrating advanced autonomy and human interaction. OM1 is set to be integrated into educational curricula nationwide through RoboStore’s programs.

    The Nasdaq Opening Bell Ringing by a Humanoid Robot was a first for the exchange and a testament to the growing impact of robotics across industries.

    For more information on the KraneShares Global Humanoid and Embodied Intelligence Index ETF (Ticker: KOID), please visit https://kraneshares.com/koid or consult your financial advisor.

    About KraneShares

    KraneShares is a specialist investment manager focused on China, Climate, and Alternatives. KraneShares seeks to provide innovative, high-conviction, and first-to-market strategies based on the firm and its partners’ deep investing knowledge. KraneShares identifies and delivers groundbreaking capital market opportunities and believes investors should have cost-effective and transparent tools for attaining exposure to various asset classes. The firm was founded in 2013 and serves institutions and financial professionals globally. The firm is a signatory of the United Nations-supported Principles for Responsible Investment (UN PRI).

    Citations:

    1. “Humanoids: 1bn Robots and $5tn Revenues by 2050, China is in Pole Position” Morgan Stanley Research, 4/28/2025.

    Carefully consider the Funds’ investment objectives, risk factors, charges and expenses before investing. This and additional information can be found in the Funds’ full and summary prospectus, which may be obtained by visiting www.kraneshares.com/koid. Read the prospectus carefully before investing.

    Risk Disclosures:

    Investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal. There can be no assurance that a Fund will achieve its stated objectives. Indices are unmanaged and do not include the effect of fees. One cannot invest directly in an index.

    This information should not be relied upon as research, investment advice, or a recommendation regarding any products, strategies, or any security in particular. This material is strictly for illustrative, educational, or informational purposes and is subject to change. Certain content represents an assessment of the market environment at a specific time and is not intended to be a forecast of future events or a guarantee of future results; material is as of the dates noted and is subject to change without notice.

    The Fund may invest in derivatives, which are often more volatile than other investments and may magnify the Fund’s gains or losses. A derivative (i.e., futures/forward contracts, swaps, and options) is a contract that derives its value from the performance of an underlying asset. The primary risk of derivatives is that changes in the asset’s market value and the derivative may not be proportionate, and some derivatives can have the potential for unlimited losses. Derivatives are also subject to liquidity and counterparty risk. The Fund is subject to liquidity risk, meaning that certain investments may become difficult to purchase or sell at a reasonable time and price. If a transaction for these securities is large, it may not be possible to initiate, which may cause the Fund to suffer losses. Counterparty risk is the risk of loss in the event that the counterparty to an agreement fails to make required payments or otherwise comply with the terms of the derivative.

    AI-exposed companies face profitability challenges due to high research costs, competition, IP reliance, and regulatory risk. Product failures or safety concerns could be detrimental. Identifying AI companies accurately is complex. Tech firms face risks of product failure, obsolescence, regulatory impact, and uncertain profitability due to technological advancements and government policies. Certain tech investments may lack current profitability and future success is uncertain. The Fund is subject to non-U.S. issuers risk, which may be less liquid than investments in U.S. issuers, may have less governmental regulation and oversight, are typically subject to different investor protection standards than U.S. issuers, and the economic instability of the non-U.S. countries. Fluctuations in currency of foreign countries may have an adverse effect to domestic currency values. The Fund may invest in Initial Public Offerings (IPOs). Securities issued in IPOs have no trading history, and information about the companies may be available for very limited periods. In addition, the prices of securities sold in IPOs may be highly volatile. In addition, as the Fund increases in size, the impact of IPOs on the Fund’s performance will generally decrease.

    Neither MerQube, Inc. nor any of its affiliates (collectively, “MerQube”) is the issuer or producer of KraneShares Global Humanoid & Embodied Intelligence Index ETF (the “Fund”) and MerQube has no duties, responsibilities, or obligations to investors in The Fund. The index underlying the The Fund is a product of MerQube and has been licensed for use by Krane Funds Advisors, LLC and its affiliates. Such index is calculated using, among other things, market data or other information (“Input Data”) from one or more sources (each a “Data Provider”). MerQube® is a registered trademark of MerQube, Inc. These trademarks have been licensed for certain purposes by Krane Funds Advisors, LLC and its affiliates in its capacity as the issuer of the The Fund. The Fund is not sponsored, endorsed, sold or promoted by MerQube, any Data Provider, or any other third party, and none of such parties make any representation regarding the advisability of investing in securities generally or in The Fund particularly, nor do they have any liability for any errors, omissions, or interruptions of the Input Data, MerQube Global Humanoid and Embodied Intelligence Index, or any associated data. Neither MerQube nor the Data Providers make any representation or warranty, express or implied, to the owners of the shares of The Fund or to any member of the public, of any kind, including regarding the ability of the MerQube Global Humanoid and Embodied Intelligence Index to track market performance or any asset class. The MerQube Global Humanoid and Embodied Intelligence Index is determined, composed and calculated by MerQube without regard to Krane Funds Advisors, LLC and its affiliates or the The Fund. MerQube and Data Providers have no obligation to take the needs of Krane Funds Advisors, LLC and its affiliates or the owners of The Fund into consideration in determining, composing or calculating the MerQube Global Humanoid and Embodied Intelligence Index. Neither MerQube nor any Data Provider is responsible for and have not participated in the determination of the prices or amount of The Fund or the timing of the issuance or sale of The Fund or in the determination or calculation of the equation by which The Fund is to be converted into cash, surrendered or redeemed, as the case may be. MerQube and Data Providers have no obligation or liability in connection with the administration, marketing or trading of The Fund. There is no assurance that investment products based on the MerQube Global Humanoid and Embodied Intelligence Index will accurately track index performance or provide positive investment returns. MerQube is not an investment advisor. Inclusion of a security within an index is not a recommendation by MerQube to buy, sell, or hold such security, nor is it considered to be investment advice.

    NEITHER MERQUBE NOR ANY OTHER DATA PROVIDER GUARANTEES THE ADEQUACY, ACCURACY, TIMELINESS AND/OR THE COMPLETENESS OF THE MERQUBE GLOBAL HUMANOID AND EMBODIED INTELLIGENCE INDEX OR ANY DATA RELATED THERETO (INCLUDING DATA INPUTS) OR ANY COMMUNICATION WITH RESPECT THERETO. NEITHER MERQUBE NOR ANY OTHER DATA PROVIDERS SHALL BE SUBJECT TO ANY DAMAGES OR LIABILITY FOR ANY ERRORS, OMISSIONS, OR DELAYS THEREIN. MERQUBE AND ITS DATA PROVIDERS MAKE NO EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES, AND THEY EXPRESSLY DISCLAIM ALL WARRANTIES, OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR USE OR AS TO RESULTS TO BE OBTAINED BY KRANE FUNDS ADVISORS, LLC AND ITS AFFILIATES, OWNERS OF THE THE FUND, OR ANY OTHER PERSON OR ENTITY FROM THE USE OF THE MERQUBE GLOBAL HUMANOID AND EMBODIED INTELLIGENCE INDEX OR WITH RESPECT TO ANY DATA RELATED THERETO. WITHOUT LIMITING ANY OF THE FOREGOING, IN NO EVENT WHATSOEVER SHALL MERQUBE OR DATA PROVIDERS BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, PUNITIVE, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO, LOSS OF PROFITS, TRADING LOSSES, LOST TIME OR GOODWILL, EVEN IF THEY HAVE BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES, WHETHER IN CONTRACT, TORT, STRICT LIABILITY, OR OTHERWISE. THE FOREGOING REFERENCES TO “MERQUBE” AND/OR “DATA PROVIDER” SHALL BE CONSTRUED TO INCLUDE ANY AND ALL SERVICE PROVIDERS, CONTRACTORS, EMPLOYEES, AGENTS, AND AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVES OF THE REFERENCED PARTY.

    Large capitalization companies may struggle to adapt fast, impacting their growth compared to smaller firms, especially in expansive times. This could result in lower stock returns than investing in smaller and mid-sized companies. In addition to the normal risks associated with investing, investments in smaller companies typically exhibit higher volatility. The Fund is new and does not yet have a significant number of shares outstanding. If the Fund does not grow in size, it will be at greater risk than larger funds of wider bid-ask spreads for its shares, trading at a greater premium or discount to NAV, liquidation and/or a trading halt. Narrowly focused investments typically exhibit higher volatility. The Fund’s assets are expected to be concentrated in a sector, industry, market, or group of concentrations to the extent that the Underlying Index has such concentrations. The securities or futures in that concentration could react similarly to market developments. Thus, the Fund is subject to loss due to adverse occurrences that affect that concentration.

    A large number of shares of the Fund are held by a single shareholder or a small group of shareholders. Redemptions from these shareholders can harm Fund performance, especially in declining markets, leading to forced sales at disadvantageous prices, increased costs, and adverse tax effects for remaining shareholders. KOID is non-diversified.

    ETF shares are bought and sold on an exchange at market price (not NAV) and are not individually redeemed from the Fund. However, shares may be redeemed at NAV directly by certain authorized broker-dealers (Authorized Participants) in very large creation/redemption units. The returns shown do not represent the returns you would receive if you traded shares at other times. Shares may trade at a premium or discount to their NAV in the secondary market. Brokerage commissions will reduce returns. Beginning 12/23/2020, market price returns are based on the official closing price of an ETF share or, if the official closing price isn’t available, the midpoint between the national best bid and national best offer (“NBBO”) as of the time the ETF calculates the current NAV per share. Prior to that date, market price returns were based on the midpoint between the Bid and Ask price. NAVs are calculated using prices as of 4:00 PM Eastern Time.

    The KraneShares ETFs and KFA Funds ETFs are distributed by SEI Investments Distribution Company (SIDCO), 1 Freedom Valley Drive, Oaks, PA 19456, which is not affiliated with Krane Funds Advisors, LLC, the Investment Adviser for the Funds, or any sub-advisers for the Funds.

    Contact:
    KraneShares Investor Relations
    info@kraneshares.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ceb61dcd-df25-411a-a2fb-a19d618441cc

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: AGNICO EAGLE PROVIDES NOTICE OF RELEASE OF SECOND QUARTER 2025 RESULTS AND CONFERENCE CALL

    Source: Agnico Eagle Mines

    Stock Symbol: AEM (NYSE and TSX)

    TORONTO, June 26, 2025 /CNW/ – Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (NYSE: AEM) (TSX: AEM) (“Agnico Eagle” or the “Company“) today announced that it will release its second quarter 2025 results on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, after normal trading hours.

    Second Quarter 2025 Results Conference Call and Webcast

    Agnico Eagle’s senior management will host a conference call on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at 11:00 AM (E.D.T.) to discuss the Company’s financial and operating results.

    Via Webcast:

    To listen to the live webcast of the conference call, you may register on the Company website at www.agnicoeagle.com, or directly via the link here.

    Via Phone:

    To join the conference call by phone, please dial 416.945.7677 or toll-free 1.888.699.1199 to be entered into the call by an operator. To ensure your participation, please call approximately five minutes prior to the scheduled start of the call.

    To join the conference call without operator assistance, you may register your phone number here 30 minutes prior to the scheduled start of the call to receive an instant automated call back.

    Replay Archive:

    Please dial 289.819.1450 or toll-free 1.888.660.6345, access code 68663 #. The conference call replay will expire on August 31, 2025.

    The webcast, along with presentation slides, will be archived for 180 days on the Company’s website.

    About Agnico Eagle

    Agnico Eagle is a Canadian based and led senior gold mining company and the third largest gold producer in the world, producing precious metals from operations in Canada, Australia, Finland and Mexico, with a pipeline of high-quality exploration and development projects. Agnico Eagle is a partner of choice within the mining industry, recognized globally for its leading sustainability practices. Agnico Eagle was founded in 1957 and has consistently created value for its shareholders, declaring a cash dividend every year since 1983.

    View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/agnico-eagle-provides-notice-of-release-of-second-quarter-2025-results-and-conference-call-302491697.html

    SOURCE Agnico Eagle Mines Limited

    MIL OSI Economics –