Category: Climate Change

MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Litter in the Mediterranean – E-000824/2025(ASW)
Source: European Parliament
The Commission is aware of the study by its Joint Research Centre revealing that the deepest point of the Mediterranean Sea has a very high concentration of marine litter[1].

The Marine Strategy Framework Directive[2] requires Member States to monitor and assess quantities and impacts of marine litter and take measures to reduce them so that they do not harm the coastal and marine environment. Under this directive, there is an agreed limit of 20 macro litter items per 100 metres of coastline[3]; threshold values for seafloor macro litter are being discussed with Member States.

In addition, the EU Strategy for Plastics[4], the Single-Use Plastics Directive[5] and the Port Reception Facilities Directive[6] also aim to reduce marine litter from land and sea sources. The regulation on preventing plastic pellets losses to reduce microplastic pollution[7] proposed by the Commission in October 2023 will strengthen the legislative framework.

The Zero Pollution Action Plan[8] sets a 50% reduction target for plastic litter at sea by 2030. According to the recent monitoring and outlook report[9] the EU is on track to meet the target.

The Extended Producer Responsibility provisions are embodied in EU legislation, including the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation[10], to ensure that producers contribute to this goal.

The EU also supports regional organisations[11], to combat marine litter and developing an ambitious global Treaty against plastic pollution.

EU funds, such as Horizon Europe[12], the EU programme for the environment and climate action[13], and the European Maritime Fisheries and Aquaculture fund[14] finance activities against marine litter[15].

These measures can be effective: a recent report showing that marine litter on the EU coastline is down by almost one-third.

[1] 26 715 items/km2, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0025326X25000852#bb0640

[2] Directive 2008/56/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 June 2008 establishing a framework for community action in the field of marine environmental policy, OJ L 164, 25.6.2008, p. 19-40.

[3] https://environment.ec.europa.eu/topics/marine-environment/descriptors-under-marine-strategy-framework-directive_en
Communication from the Commission — Commission Notice on the threshold values set under the Marine Strategy Framework Directive 2008/56/EC and Commission Decision (EU) 2017/848, C/2024/1268, OJ C, C/2024/2078, 11.3.2024.

[4] https://environment.ec.europa.eu/strategy/plastics-strategy_en

[5] Directive (EU) 2019/904 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 5 June 2019 on the reduction of the impact of certain plastic products on the environment, OJ L 155, 12.6.2019, p. 1-19.

[6] Directive (EU) 2019/883 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 April 2019 on port reception facilities for the delivery of waste from ships, amending Directive 2010/65/EU and repealing Directive 2000/59/EC, OJ L 151, 7.6.2019, p. 116-142.

[7] Proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on preventing plastic pellet losses to reduce microplastic pollution, COM/2023/645 final.

[8] https://environment.ec.europa.eu/strategy/zero-pollution-action-plan_en

[9] https://environment.ec.europa.eu/strategy/zero-pollution-action-plan/zero-pollution-targets_en#:~:text=The%20Zero%20Pollution%20Monitoring%20and%20Outlook%20offers%20a,are%20likely%20to%20achieve%202030%20zero%20pollution%20targets

[10] Regulation (EU) 2025/40 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 December 2024 on packaging and packaging waste, amending Regulation (EU) 2019/1020 and Directive (EU) 2019/904, and repealing Directive 94/62/EC, OJ L, 2025/40, 22.1.2025.

[11] E.g. Barcelona Convention in the Mediterranean.

[12] https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/funding/funding-opportunities/funding-programmes-and-open-calls/horizon-europe_en; https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/funding/funding-opportunities/funding-programmes-and-open-calls/horizon-europe_en

[13] LIFE: Regulation (EU) 2021/783 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 29 April 2021 establishing a Programme for the Environment and Climate Action (LIFE), and repealing Regulation (EU) No 1293/2013, OJ L 172, 17.05.2021, p.53.

[14] https://oceans-and-fisheries.ec.europa.eu/funding/emfaf_en

[15] https://joint-research-centre.ec.europa.eu/jrc-news-and-updates/marine-litter-eu-coastline-down-almost-one-third-2025-02-04_en
Last updated: 8 May 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
May 9, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Making use of the infrastructure that has been implemented in Greece and that can ensure the energy security of the EU – E-000579/2025(ASW)
Source: European Parliament

Between August 2022 to December 2024, the EU has reduced its natural gas demand by 18% compared to the average of the years 2017-2021, resulting in 175 billion cubic meters (bcm) of gas saved.

As substantiated in the impact assessment of the Climate Target Plan 2040[1], the projections show 90 bcm of gaseous fuels (including biogas and biomethane) will still be used by 2050. Gaseous fuels will be part of our energy mix in the future but at a reduced level and in cleaner form, including biogas and biomethane.

The Central and South-Eastern Europe Energy Connectivity (CESEC) High-Level Group is working on maximising the use of the Trans-Balkan Pipeline, which can significantly contribute to the regional diversification of supply.

CESEC has been addressing barriers to its full use, notably gas quality, regulatory barriers (including tariffs) and market barriers. Through CESEC, the Commission follows the evolution of the Vertical Corridor while maintaining that maximised use of existing natural gas infrastructure should be a pre-condition to capacity developments.

The EU-Türkiye High-Level Energy Dialogue was suspended in 2019 following Turkish unauthorised drilling activities in the East-Med region.

The Commission and the High Representative presented a Joint Communication on EU-Türkiye relations[2] in November 2023 recommending that the High-Level Energy Dialogue be reopened, under strict conditions.

In April 2024, EU Leaders underlined that the EU has a strategic interest in a stable and secure environment in the Eastern Mediterranean and in a cooperative and mutually beneficial relationship with Türkiye and tasked the Committee of the Permanent Representatives of the Governments of the Member States to the European Union (Coreper) to advance work on the recommendations of the Joint Communication in a phased, proportionate and reversible manner.
- [1] SWD/2024/63 final (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A52024SC0063).
- [2] JOIN(2023) 50 final (https://enlargement.ec.europa.eu/joint-communication-european-council-state-play-eu-turkiye-political-economic-and-trade-relations-0_en).
MIL OSI Europe News –
May 9, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Hidden connections of more than 100 migratory marine species revealed in interactive map

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lily Bentley, Postdoctoral Research Fellow, School of the Environment, The University of Queensland

Wirestock Creators/Shutterstock

From the enormous blue whale to the delicate monarch butterfly, animals of all shapes and sizes migrate across the globe. These migrations connect distant habitats, from the tropics to the poles. They are also crucial to both the health of species making these epic journeys, and the habitats where they live.

It is hard to visualise these epic, globe-spanning journeys and the habitats they connect. But an interactive map we developed, alongside an international team of scientists from the University of Queensland and Duke University and in partnership with the Global Ocean Biodiversity Initiative, can help.

Known as Mico (Migratory Connectivity in the Ocean), this map is a valuable conservation tool that demonstrates just how connected our oceans are due to animal migration. It is freely available here, and has just been updated with our newly published research in Nature Communications. This research synthesises thousands of records of more than 100 species of birds, mammals, turtles and fish that connect almost 2,000 crucial habitats.

Mico brings together the migratory movements of more than 100 migratory marine species, including the Arctic tern.
Migratory Connectivity in the Ocean/Mico

An evolving science

Humans have contemplated animal migrations for millennia. Representations of and theories about these journeys are observable in Stone Age rock art and the writings of Ancient Greek philosophers. Indigenous peoples and local communities have also long relied upon and understood the seasonal movements of culturally important species.

But for much of human history, identifying specific destinations of migratory species was an inexact science. This has started to change in recent decades, as scientists have developed and deployed animal-borne satellite tags which can record and transmit an animal’s location as it migrates.

These tags can be very expensive to deploy and collect data from. They also require enormous investments of time and expertise. But they are crucial if we are to understand where migratory species go when they’re outside the range of normal human observations.

Animal-borne satellite tags can be expensive, but are crucial for understanding where turtles and other migratory animals travel.
NOAA/NMFS/Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center Blog

The journeys of migratory species also span multiple jurisdictions. This means cooperation between countries is required to ensure they are protected.

For example, many albatross species receive significant conservation investment at their nesting islands within national jurisdictions. But they are at high risk of being incidentally caught and killed or injured in longline fisheries operating in international waters.

Synthesising more than 1,300 studies

For our new study, we reviewed the literature on the movements of marine migratory species from 1990 to 2017. We synthesised the start and end points of migrations reported in more than 1,300 individual studies. These studies covered 109 marine species.

This information was then aggregated to remove duplicate data and combine sites very near to each other (on a global scale) into one “metasite” to make it easier to display. Each data point is also linked to the study from which it comes. This means you can always find the work of the original team who tagged those animals.

In synthesising the studies in this manner, we created an interactive map and downloadable dataset estimating the measured migratory connections of the global ocean.

If you look up the green turtle map, for example, you can see just how much information there is for this highly-studied species. The red links show many tracked movements from breeding to foraging areas within each ocean basin.

Sperm whales, on the other hand, are globally distributed – you can toggle on the species distribution in the top menu. But we only have information about connectivity for animals in the Atlantic and east Pacific oceans. You can see these sites on the map, mostly in North America and in the Mediterranean.

Because researchers are yet to track animals in all parts of the globe, the map is missing some information about the migratory movements of key species in particular areas. We are planning updates as more information becomes available.

Sperm whales are globally distributed, but Mico currently only captures their connectivity in the Atlantic and east Pacific oceans.
Migratory Connectivity in the Ocean/Mico

A tool for conservation

This summary of migratory information is important for improving global conservation.

Scientists have published many papers on migrations, both of single populations or species, and combining data about taxonomy from several different sources. But these can be difficult to keep up with for managers or policymakers who may not have time to engage with every single piece of emerging scientific literature.

Our information can help identify stakeholders when planning or managing a conservation project. Many of these stakeholders may be across an ocean basin or even in a different hemisphere.

The scientific synthesis we provide can help countries take more informed actions to achieve the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework’s target of conserving a “well-connected” 30% of terrestrial, inland water, coastal and marine areas by 2030. This is particularly true in the high seas, as a mechanism to implement protected areas outside of national waters is developed under the soon-to-be-ratified High Seas Treaty.

Various seabirds, including the Amsterdam Albatross, are included in the new research.
Sergey 402/Shutterstock

In addition to sharing the enormous scope of work that has been conducted on the migration of large ocean animals over the last decades, our work has already fed into policy processes.

For example, it has been used by seven United Nations conventions or organisations. We hope to formalise the role of our map as a node of the Convention on Migratory Species’ Atlas of Animal Migration at their next meeting in March 2026.

More broadly, we hope this work will support better international collaboration to conserve our incredible oceanic migrants for years to come.

Lily Bentley receives funding from a Queensland-Smithsonian Fellowship on understanding migratory connectivity of seabirds in the Great Barrier Reef. She has presented on the work discussed at policy fora including the Conference of Parties (COP) for the Convention on Biological Diversity and the Convention on Migratory Species. She works on the Migratory Connectivity in the Ocean (MiCO; mico.eco) system, which has been previously supported by the German International Climate Initiative (IKI) and UNEP-WCMC.

Autumn-Lynn Harrison directs the Smithsonian’s National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute’s Migratory Connectivity Project, supported by a gift to the Smithsonian by ConocoPhillips. She is also a Partner Investigator on an Australian Research Council Discovery Grant for understanding migratory connectivity in the ocean.

Daniel Dunn receives funding to support the development of the Migratory Connectivity in the Ocean (MICO) system from a grant to the Global Ocean Biodiversity Initiative (GOBI) from the International Climate Initiative (IKI), UNEP-WCMC, and from an Australian Research Council Discovery Project grant. The German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMU) supports the IKI on the basis of a decision adopted by the German Bundestag.

– ref. Hidden connections of more than 100 migratory marine species revealed in interactive map – https://theconversation.com/hidden-connections-of-more-than-100-migratory-marine-species-revealed-in-interactive-map-255972

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

May 9, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: NEW SCHUMER ANALYSIS: TRUMP’S BUDGET PROPOSAL IS ALL-OUT ASSAULT ON FEDERAL PROGRAMS UPSTATE NY RELIES ON MOST, RAISING COSTS FOR SENIORS, FAMILIES, & SMALL BUSINESSES AND SLASHING CRITICAL INVESTMENT…

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer

Trump Just Released His “Skinny Budget” Blueprint Of Next Year’s Spending – And It Completely Zeroes Out And Slashes Many Of The Programs Most Important To Communities From Albany, To Buffalo, To Watertown, To Westchester

Schumer Data Shows Upstate NY Families Would Lose BILLIONS – Ripping Away Support For Seniors & Families To Heat Their Homes In The Winter, Community Grants Our Cities Rely On For Economic Development, Decimating Support To Reduce Housing Costs, Ending Funding To Fight Opioid Crisis, Slashing Funding For Removing Lead Pipes, Cutting Support For Rural Air Service, & More

Schumer: Trump’s Budget Is All-Out Assault On Upstate NY Families, Seniors & Communities

After President Trump released his “skinny budget” plan for the next year, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer revealed how these devastating cuts would totally eliminate and slash many of the federal programs Upstate NY relies on the most. Schumer is sounding the alarm on the most dangerous and severe of these cuts for Upstate NY, which could cost our seniors, families, local governments, and small businesses billions.

“Trump’s budget proposal is an all-out assault on hardworking Upstate New York families and seniors and the programs our communities rely on most – from totally eliminating funding to help our seniors keep the heat on during cold winters, to slashing funding to fight the opioid crisis, to cutting funding for rural air service in the North Country, to decimating the CDBG and HOME grant programs that deliver tens of millions of dollars every year for cities from Buffalo to Rochester to Albany to reduce housing costs and create local jobs. The chaos and cruelty of these cuts to incredibly effective, popular and essential federal programs show no one is safe from government by chainsaw,” said Senator Schumer. “Donald Trump’s budget is dead on arrival in the Senate, and all NY House Republicans should stand up and be vocal against these cuts, which are so damaging to Upstate NY, and get them reversed and removed from this misguided budget proposal.”

Schumer highlighted some of the most severe and alarming cuts proposed in Trump’s budget that would hit Upstate NY hardest:

Totally Eliminates LIHEAP – Ripping Away Nearly $400 Million Per Year For NY Seniors & Families To Heat And Cool Their Homes

Trump’s budget proposal completely eliminates all federal funding for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), zeroing out the funding. LIHEAP is the program that provides federal support to seniors & families to help pay their winter heating bills or summer cooling bills.

Schumer said, “We all know Upstate winters can be harsh, and it is beyond cruel Trump could turn off the heat for thousands of seniors who rely on this program to stay safe and warm in their homes.”

Last year, more than 1.8 million families across New York State received nearly $400 million in funding thanks to LIHEAP. A full county-by-county breakdown of New Yorkers receiving LIHEAP can be found HERE, with some of the largest counties highlighted below:

Upstate NY Major Counties LIHEAP Benefits

Counties	Households	Benefits
Erie	119,693	$41.7 million
Monroe	65,920	$19.7 million
Onondaga	41,559	$15.1 million
Oneida	28,545	$13.8 million
Albany	19,603	$6.7 million
Westchester	34,060	$3.3 million
Broome	20,166	$9.6 million
St. Lawrence	13,940	$8.6 million

Cuts $4.2+ Billion for CDBG and HOME Grants, Eliminating the Programs – These Investments Are Some of the Main Tools Local Governments Use To Reduce Housing Costs And Revitalize Neighborhood

Trump’s budget proposal eliminates the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships Programs. Schumer said CDBG and HOME have long been cornerstones of funding for building new housing to reduce costs and increase access, economic development, and community revitalization creating jobs for Upstate NY.

Below is a breakdown of the CDBG and HOME funding levels Upstate NY communities are receiving for Fiscal Year 2025 that would be eliminated under the Trump budget proposal:

Upstate CDBG and HOME Grant Breakdown

Grantee	2025 CDBG Award	2025 HOME Award	Total Combined
State of New York	$47,644,860	$23,805,148	$71,450,008
Buffalo	$13,103,636	$3,092,955	$16,196,591
Rochester	$8,068,072	$2,316,840	$10,384,912
Syracuse	$4,795,536	$1,278,624	$6,074,160
Westchester County	$4,646,543	$1,027,065	$5,673,608
Yonkers	$3,248,745	$1,223,019	$4,471,764
Erie County	$2,994,630	$921,687	$3,916,317
Albany	$3,043,143	$857,575	$3,900,718
Rockland County	$2,691,786	$970,993	$3,662,779
Schenectady	$2,050,241	$1,187,096	$3,237,337
Monroe County	$1,842,072	$1,146,571	$2,988,643
Onondaga County	$2,272,403	$673,565	$2,945,968
Utica	$2,320,311	$590,075	$2,910,386
Orange County	$1,645,340	$1,110,380	$2,755,720
Niagara Falls	$2,150,047	$449,818	$2,599,865
Dutchess County	$1,497,550	$884,623	$2,382,173
Binghamton	$1,790,607	$442,780	$2,233,387
Mount Vernon	$1,548,930	$591,829	$2,140,759
New Rochelle	$1,385,726	$446,046	$1,831,772
Troy	$1,725,397	$0	$1,725,397
Union Town	$1,253,674	$390,411	$1,644,085
Tonawanda Town	$1,592,983	$0	$1,592,983
Amherst	$625,669	$838,600	$1,464,269
Jamestown	$1,105,265	$313,260	$1,418,525
Elmira	$1,095,403	$239,101	$1,334,504

Ends The Northern Border Regional Commission, Great Lakes Authority, and Economic Development Administration – Federal Investments Aimed Specifically At Spurring Economic Growth and Job Creation In Upstate NY

Trump’s budget proposal would completely get rid of the Northern Border Regional Commission, which has delivered more than $48 million for 78 projects across Upstate NY since its creation, and the Great Lakes Authority which specifically benefit NY counties. These agencies provide targeted help for Upstate NY infrastructure, rural health care, child care access, workforce training, small business support, and community projects that otherwise would go unfunded. The Trump budget also eliminates the Economic Development Administration (EDA), which has delivered well over $320 million for New York State projects since 2018 alone. These EDA investments have created or supported nearly 40,000 New York jobs and spurred more than $4.4 billion in private investment.

At the end of last year, the Economic Development Administration was reauthorized with wide bipartisan support. This bill that passed into law also reauthorized the Northern Border Regional Commission for another 5 years, increasing funding and expanding the critical grant program.

The Northern Border Regional Commission includes: Cayuga, Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Genesee, Greene, Hamilton, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Livingston, Madison, Montgomery, Niagara, Oneida, Orleans, Oswego, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, Seneca, St. Lawrence, Sullivan, Washington, Warren, Wayne, Wyoming and Yates counties.
The Great Lakes Authority includes: Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Allegany, Erie, Niagara, Genesee, Wyoming, Jefferson, Orleans, Oswego, Wayne, Monroe, Cayuga, Lewis, Herkimer, Hamilton, Oneida, Seneca, Onondaga, Tompkins, Schuyler, Yates, Ontario, Madison, Cortland, Chemung, Steuben, Livingston, St. Lawrence, Franklin, Essex, and Clinton counties.

Slashes $1 Billion For Fighting The Opioid Epidemic And Combating Addiction

Trump’s budget slashes the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration’s (SAMSA) budget by over $1 billion, a nearly 15% reduction. This will make it harder for Upstate NY to fight the opioid epidemic reducing critical treatments and mental health care, especially rural programs that uniquely rely on this funding.

New York State-based institutions received nearly $650 million in grant funding in FY2024. A 15% reduction would rip away nearly $100 million from NY’s efforts to combat the opioid epidemic.

Devastating 40% Cut to NIH Funding – Harming Medical Research On Cancer, Alzheimer’s And More: Hurting Healthcare and Jobs In Upstate NY

Trump’s budget slashes the National Institutes of Health budget by approximately $18 billion, a roughly 40% reduction. Every corner of New York is using this funding to study cures for cancer, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and other life-threatening diseases.

Schumer said, “These extreme cuts will lead to layoffs in Upstate NY and make it more difficult for sick people to receive care, and set our country back decades in developing lifesaving medical treatment.”

New York State institutions received more than $3.5 billion in grant funding in FY2024. A 40% reduction in the total NIH budget means that all of the money New York receives is at risk. Institutions could see millions of dollars ripped away for research efforts across NY. A full list of NIH grant recipients and federal funding awards can be found here.

Examples of Upstate NIH Cut Subsidy Summary

Recipient	FY2024 Grants
University of Rochester	$187,470,266
University at Buffalo	$90,062,504
Roswell Park Cancer Institute	$48,999,339
Albany Medical College	$13,233,444
University at Albany	$11,007,516

89% Slash For Federal Funds For Clean Drinking Water And Eliminating Lead Pipes

Trump’s budget proposal cuts nearly $2.5 billion from the Drinking Water and Clean Water State Revolving Funds, amounting to an overall budget of $305 million which is a nearly 89% cut. The SRFs are one of the primary federal tools for municipalities to get low-cost financing for water and sewer infrastructure projects that ensures the water New Yorkers rely on is safe and clean.

Schumer said, “Upstate NY has some of the oldest water infrastructure, and our cities like Buffalo and Troy have more lead pipes than most places in the country. No amount of toxic lead exposure is safe for our children, and these cuts would leave communities high and dry when it comes to upgrading their water and sewage infrastructure.”

According to the EPA, New York State received more than $368 million in funding from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund and nearly $294 million from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund for a total of more than $662 million in FY2024. Under Trump’s proposed FY2026 funding levels, New York State would see a reduction of nearly $580 million.

Cutting Rural Air Service Support For North Country Airports

Trump’s budget proposal slashes funding for FAA’s Essential Air Service (EAS) program by 50%. The EAS provides federal support to bring air service to underserved & rural communities, and specifically all five of the North Country’s major airports. All of NY’s airports that rely on EAS are in the North Country: Ogdensburg, Massena, Plattsburgh, Watertown, and Adirondack Regional Airport.

Cuts Funding For Programs That Help Seniors And People With Disabilities Pay Rent

Trump’s budget proposal would consolidate funding for Tenant-Based Rental Assistance, Public Housing, Project-Based Rental Assistance, Housing for the Elderly, and Housing for Persons with Disabilities into a new State Rental Assistance Block Grant, cutting nearly $27 billion across these programs and foisting responsibility over these programs onto state and local governments, reducing their ability to help people in need. Over half a million New Yorkers rely on this assistance, the vast majority of whom are seniors, people with disabilities, and children. Schumer explained that as rent costs continue to go up across the country, the administration is slashing funding for rental assistance.

In FY2023, New York State received more than $7.4 billion across these programs that would not be consolidated into a new State Rental Assistance Block Grant and receive a massive cut of 42.8%. Below is a breakdown of funding for each program and how much would be allocated to New York State if Trump’s major cuts to the programs were to go through.

NY State Rental Assistance Block Grant Breakdown

Grant	FY2023 Funding Levels	Award Based on Proposed FY2026 HUD Funding Levels	Amount Cut Based on Proposed FY2026 HUD Funding Levels
Tenant-Based Rental Assistance	$140,182,508	$80,184,395	$59,998,113
Public Housing	$5,239,042,468	$2,996,732,292	$2,242,310,176
Project-Based Rental Assistance	$1,907,344,837	$1,091,001,247	$816,343,590
Housing for the Elderly	$122,626,159	$70,142,163	$52,483,996
Housing for Persons with Disabilities	$14,109,993	$8,070,916	$6,039,077
Total	$7,423,305,965	$4,246,131,012	$3,177,174,953

Cancels $1.3 Billion For NOAA- Essential To The Health Of Great Lakes & Weather Monitoring

Trump’s budget proposal eliminates more than $1.3 billion for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) grants and research programs which uniquely support the Great Lakes, including programs which helps identify storm water infrastructure in need of upgrades to ensure community safety during extreme weather events.

In addition, Trump wants to cancel $209 million for weather satellites and infrastructure critical for Upstate NY communities to get timely and accurate forecasts, and without could put safety at risk.

Senator Schumer said, “Trump’s seismic cuts to the NOAA Great Lakes programs are the equivalent of wandering outside during a blizzard in Buffalo without a jacket. It’s not just dumb, it’s dangerous. NOAA Great Lakes scientists are how we monitor the health of Lake Erie, how we keep our waterways clean, how Western NY gets daily weather reports and this funding is one of our best tools for knowing when a lake effect snow will drop and how extreme it will be.”

MIL OSI USA News –

May 9, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Wicker, Scott, and Griffith Applaud the Rollback of Biden-Era EPA Rule

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Mississippi Roger Wicker
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Roger Wicker, R-Miss., and Tim Scott, R-S.C., and Congressman Morgan Griffith, R-Va., celebrated the passage of the Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution to overturn the unnecessary U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Rubber Tire Manufacturing National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) rule in the Senate.
“The Biden administration forced needless regulations on American tire manufactures and producers. Increasing the NESHAP standard puts an unnecessary financial and environmental burden on rubber manufacturing facilities. Reversing this decision will protect jobs and bring back the time-tested NESHAP rule, which has kept our environment clean and our communities safe,” said Senator Wicker.
“I am happy we are one step closer to eliminating the Biden-era NESHAP rule driven by radical environmentalism that did nothing but hurt workers and businesses across the nation,” said Senator Scott. “Republican leadership continues to deliver for the American people by getting rid of government overreach and inefficiency and paving the way for productivity and prosperity.”
“House and Senate Republicans are acting decisively to repeal onerous regulations from the Biden EPA, like the rubber tire manufacturing rule, that do very little to serve public health. Like many of regulations issued during the waning days of the Biden-Harris Administration, the rubber tire manufacturing emission standard utilized questionable emissions data and pointed to negligible health benefits as justification for the rule. Thanks to strong conservative leaders in the Senate, like Senators Tim Scott and Roger Wicker, Congress is exercising its authority to undo this harmful Biden EPA measure and provide relief to America’s rubber tire manufacturers,” said Rep. Griffith.
This resolution is cosponsored by Senators Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., Cindy Hyde-Smith R-Miss., and Tim Sheehy, R-Mont., and Representatives Gary Palmer, R-Ala., Derek Schmidt, R-Kan., Mike Bost, R-Ill., Claudia Tenney, R-N.Y., Joe Wilson, R-S.C., Rep. John Joyce, R-Pa., Troy Balderson, R-Ohio, Randy Weber, R-Texas, Dan Crenshaw, R-Texas, Bob Latta R-Ohio, and Buddy Carter, R-Ga.
Click here for bill text.
BACKGROUND:
The Rubber Tire Manufacturing source category is comprised of facilities that produce rubber components such as rubber compounds, tread, tire cords, and liners. The category is split into rubber processing, tire production, tire cord production, and puncture seal application subcategories.
In 2002, the original Rubber Tire Manufacturing NESHAP established emissions limits for the tire production, tire cord production, and puncture seal application subcategories.
In 2020, a residual risk and technology review (RTR) found that the current NESHAP provided an ample margin of safety to protect public health and that the risk associated with air emissions from rubber tire manufacturing was acceptable. The RTR also clarified that emissions during startup, shutdown, and malfunction are subject to the NESHAP.
The DC Court determined in Louisiana Environmental Action Network v. EPA that the agency should address unregulated emissions from a source category when the EPA conducts an eight-year technological review as required by the Clean Air Act.
On November 16, 2023, the EPA proposed the emission standards to address unregulated hazardous air pollutants from the rubber processing subcategory pursuant to the decision in Louisiana Environmental Action Network.
But the EPA’s risk review found that the rule was not necessary to protect public health or the environment and could not quantify any public health benefits from the rule.
Regardless, to comply with the rule, tire manufacturers would have had to install regenerative thermal oxidizers (RTOs), would have caused an increase in CO2 emissions. As a result, the EPA quantified public health disbenefits associated with the rule ranging from $2.7 million to $8.1 million per year, in addition to $13.3 million per year in compliance costs.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: GREAT DEAL FOR AMERICA: President Trump’s “Breakthrough” Trade Deal

US Senate News:

Source: The White House
In February, President Donald J. Trump promised “a great trade agreement” with the United Kingdom — and today he delivered with a “breakthrough” trade deal that expands market access, curbs non-tariff barriers, and levels the playing field for American exporters.
Promises made, promises kept — and he’s just getting started.
It’s the first such deal under President Trump’s transformational plan to liberate Americans from globalist trade policies that make foreign countries rich while Americans get robbed. It’s all part of President Trump’s vision of economic prosperity: fair trade, historic tax cuts, deregulation, and a manufacturing revival that will cement America’s new Golden Age for decades to come.
Here’s what they’re saying:
National Cattlemen’s Beef Association President Buck Wehrbein: “With this trade deal, President Trump has delivered a tremendous win for American family farmers and ranchers. For years, American cattle producers have seen the United Kingdom as an ideal partner for trade. Between our countries’ shared history, culture, and their desire for high-quality American beef, securing a trade agreement is a natural step forward. Thank you President Trump for fighting for American cattle producers.”
Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper: “We sincerely thank President Trump and his trade negotiators for ensuring that American-made ethanol is an important part of the trade agreement announced today with the United Kingdom. While we are still awaiting the specific details of the agreement, we are excited about the prospects of expanded market access that will help boost our farm economy, while also delivering lower-cost, cleaner fuel to UK drivers.”
International Dairy Foods Association President and CEO Michael Dykes, D.V.M.: “On behalf of America’s dairy processors and producers, IDFA applauds President Trump’s announcement today that the United States and the United Kingdom have reached the terms for a significant trade deal between our two markets that promises to expand access for U.S. agricultural goods, reduce tariffs, and remove barriers to trade … For too long, the UK has limited America’s food and agricultural exports to the world’s sixth largest economy and now President Trump’s deal promises to level the playing field. IDFA looks forward to studying the details of this agreement as they emerge, especially specifics on relief and new market access opportunities for U.S. dairy products. The United States offers the world’s most wholesome, high-quality and affordable dairy products and IDFA is excited to work with our member companies to bring these delicious products to more consumers in the United Kingdom.”
Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor: “In terms of trade with the UK, the American ethanol industry had its best year ever last year of exports valued at over $535 million. This trade agreement puts us on track to set another record, all to the benefit of American farmers, biofuel producers, and UK consumers. We look forward to learning more, and finding new ways to help the UK achieve its economic and environmental goals through the increased use of American biofuels. We commend the President and his team for making this deal and creating new opportunities for American ethanol and rural America.”
Job Creators Network CEO Alfredo Ortiz: “Trump’s trade deal with the United Kingdom is a big victory for small businesses, American consumers, and the Trump administration itself. By reducing tariffs and trade barriers, American small businesses will be able to expand their markets and more easily sell to the relatively wealthy UK, whose population is 70 million. American consumers — including small businesses — will also get cheaper access to British goods. President Trump’s tough tariff stance is starting to pay dividends in the form of fairer and freer trade deals that put America first. The many more deals to come will greatly improve the small business economy, financial markets, and American prosperity.”
Consumer Brands Association President and CEO Melissa Hockstad: “Consumer Brands commends the Trump administration’s successful completion of a comprehensive trade deal with the United Kingdom. As President Trump and his team pursues the America First Trade Policy agenda, the consumer packaged goods industry — America’s largest domestic manufacturing sector by employment — supports the creation of new opportunities for U.S. businesses and efforts to address unfair trade barriers around the world. As the administration continues to pursue deals with other countries, we encourage U.S. trade representatives to examine the needs of different manufacturing sectors and prioritize maintaining access to unavailable natural resources. Ensuring continued trade flows of those key ingredients, which are not available from U.S. sources, is critical to achieving the president’s economic vision, fighting grocery inflation and protecting the 22.3 million American jobs supported by food, beverage, household and personal care manufacturers.”
HSBC USA President & CEO Lisa McGeough: “Today’s landmark US – UK trade agreement marks a significant step in strengthening transatlantic economic ties and expanding opportunities for businesses and investors. As a British-headquartered bank with a strong US footprint, we’re uniquely positioned to help American companies and investors seize new growth opportunities domestically, in the UK, and beyond. In the US, we stand ready to leverage our position as the world’s leading trade bank to facilitate cross-border commerce, support job creation, and drive investment. We commend the administration on the first of what we hope will be many forward-looking trade agreements.”
American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall: “Farm Bureau appreciates the work between the administration and the United Kingdom to secure a new trade agreement. We have long advocated for new trade deals, and this is an important first step in expanding markets in the four countries … We’re encouraged by progress to create market opportunities for farmers.”
Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen: “Trade matters to Nebraska because our farmers and ranchers produce the absolute best – and feed the world. America’s relationship with the U.K. is longstanding, and there is great potential for expanded trade between our countries. President Trump and his administration know that we need more trade with fewer barriers, and they are working around the clock to finalize trade deals with partners across the globe. That’s good news for Nebraska.”
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig: “A new trade deal with a key ally like the United Kingdom is great news and so I am very encouraged by President Trump’s announcement today. I am particularly pleased to hear the President tout expanded market access for ethanol, beef, and, as he put it, ‘virtually all the products produced by our great farmers’ … Today’s trade announcement demonstrates that there is real progress being made toward opening additional markets for Iowa products across the globe. I hope this deal is the first of many that will be announced with other trading partners in the coming weeks and months.”
Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso: “It’s good to have the dealmaker-in-chief back in the White House. President Trump’s historic trade deal with the U.K. will mean more jobs and increased investment right here in America. More promises kept.”
Sen. Jim Banks: “Art of the Deal!”
Sen. John Boozman: “I just spoke on the phone with USTR Ambassador Greer to discuss the good news. He’s doing a great job, and I look forward to working with him and @SecRollins to ensure agriculture market access remains a priority as the details continue to be worked out.”
Sen. John Cornyn: “@POTUS Donald Trump will unveil his first post-Liberation Day trade deal this morning — a “major” agreement with the United Kingdom on rolling back tariffs.”
Sen. Joni Ernst: “President Trump continues to deliver and is opening new markets for Iowa farmers!”
Sen. Bill Hagerty: “No surprise that our Dealmaker-in-Chief President Donald Trump is rapidly delivering on his promise to ensure our trading partners are operating in good faith and that America is being treated fairly. The deal the President struck with the UK is proof that countries are responding to tariffs and want to enter into trade agreements with the United States that benefit both parties. I look forward to many more announcements in the near future.”
Sen. Roger Marshall: “Promises made. Promises kept. We are opening up new markets for our world class Kansas beef! Big win.”
Sen. Jerry Moran: “The UK offers a strategic market for American aviation & agricultural products. I introduced legislation earlier this year to lay the groundwork for a strong bilateral trade relationship, & President Trump’s announcement of a new trade agreement with the UK is a positive step forward.”
Sen. Bernie Moreno: “An absolutely historic pro America deal by the most pro America President of my lifetime. We will no longer be ripped off and will no longer tolerate trade imbalances that have destroyed the opportunities for working Americans.”
Sen. Eric Schmitt: “After years of getting ripped off, America is finally playing to win. More exports, more products made here, and record-breaking investment thanks to President Trump’s trade deals.”
Sen. Rick Scott: “Great news! Thank you, President Trump, for working with our allies while putting America first and protecting American jobs!”
Sen. Tim Sheehy: “The Art of the Deal. President Trump just delivered a huge win for hardworking Americans. Let’s keep them coming!”
Sen. Thom Tillis: “A big win secured by @POTUS with the United Kingdom, our greatest ally and one of our largest trade partners. This is a significant step toward establishing fair and mutually beneficial trade relationships with our global partners.”
Sen. Tommy Tuberville: “Today’s trade deal with the UK is the first of many to come. Like I always say: Never bet against @realDonaldTrump. THE ART OF THE DEAL”
House Majority Whip Tom Emmer: “The master negotiator succeeds again. @POTUS promised to bring our trading partners to the table and secure deals that put AMERICA FIRST—and that’s exactly what he did. More to come!”
House Republican Conference Chair Lisa McClain: “Promises Made, Promises KEPT! @POTUS brought countries to the negotiation table and has already DELIVERED a historic trade deal.”
House Republican Leadership Chair Elise Stefanik: “President @realDonaldTrump delivers AGAIN. Thanks to his bold leadership and tough tariffs, the UK is the first to come to the table—with a new trade deal that puts American workers and businesses FIRST. This is what economic strength and real leadership looks like. Fair trade. Better deals. America wins.”
Rep. Mark Alford: “Fact check: President Trump’s tariff strategy works. Boosting American manufacturing and fighting for our farmers. ANOTHER WIN FOR AMERICA.”
Rep. Rick Allen: “Another VICTORY! @POTUS is bringing our trading partners to the table and securing billions in new market access for American workers, businesses, and producers. Today’s trade deal with the U.K. will be the first of many. Economic strength is national strength!”
Rep. Don Bacon: “I congratulate @POTUS on striking a trade deal with the U.K. While we wait for the finer details of the agreement, including more than $700 million in ethanol exports and $250 million in other AG products like beef, every Nebraskan will surely feel it.”
Rep. Aaron Bean: “President Trump announced the first historic trade deal with the UK—something the legacy media said was ‘impossible.’ Today’s deal will make our economy stronger, put American workers first, and unleash the full potential of American industry.”
Rep. Vern Buchanan: “President Trump has once again delivered for the American people with a historic trade agreement that puts our workers and businesses first. This new deal with the United Kingdom dramatically expands access for American exports—especially agriculture—and levels the playing field for our manufacturers.”
Rep. Tim Burchett: “.@realDonaldTrump is fulfilling his promise to protect American workers and businesses. The UK trade deal slashes tariffs against the U.S. and is Making America Prosperous Again.”
Rep. Buddy Carter: “This new trade deal with the United Kingdom is just the start to the Golden Age of America. President Trump is keeping his promise, bringing fair trade to America by using the art of the deal!”
Rep. Andrew Clyde: “ART OF THE DEAL in action!”
Rep. Mike Collins: “President Trump’s tariff strategy works. Today’s trade deal with the U.K. will make our economy stronger and put American workers first. The only people upset are the Democrats and liberal media who wanted him to fail.”
Rep. Warren Davidson: “A glaring example of why we need to trust President Trump’s tariff strategy—it’s working. Stay the course.”
Rep. Pat Fallon: “Another day, another deal!”
Rep. Michelle Fischbach: “More promises made and kept by @POTUS. He said he would hold our trade partners accountable and put America first, and he’s delivering. This is just the beginning!”
Rep. Julie Fedorchak: “@POTUS is delivering exactly what our producers need. North Dakota grows and raises some of the best products in the world, and now we have greater access to one of the world’s largest markets. This is just the first of many trade victories to come under President Trump!”
Rep. Chuck Fleischmann: “@POTUS is ending decades of unfair trade deals that have ripped off the American People and is moving at lightning speed to negotiate and deliver America First trade deals. The US-UK trade deal announced today is historic and is only just the beginning!”
Rep. Mike Flood: “Over the last four years, President Biden did nothing on trade. Within a matter of months, President Trump’s dealmaking experience resulted in a trade deal with the United Kingdom, one of our country’s oldest allies.”
Rep. Virginia Foxx: “The Art of The Deal.”
Rep. Lance Gooden: “In four years, Joe Biden signed ZERO major trade deals. In just over 100 days, President Trump negotiated and signed a major trade deal with the United Kingdom. America is leading once again.”
Rep. Mark Green: “Once again, the Negotiator-in-Chief is closing deals to safeguard American manufacturers and grow our trade bigger and better than ever. On Victory in Europe Day, there isn’t a better anniversary to solidify our partnership with the United Kingdom.”
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene: “Another incredible trade deal just secured by President Trump! The Golden Age of America is here!!”
Rep. Diana Harshbarger: “This is a HUGE WIN! Because of @POTUS’s leadership, America is securing historic economic deals—and this is just the beginning!”
Rep. Ashley Hinson: “Huge win—and many more to come! @POTUS is fighting to right the wrongs of the past, return to fair trade, and build a more abundant America. Thank you for prioritizing new market opportunities for Iowa’s farmers and biofuels producers.”
Rep. Richard Hudson: “This is what decisive leadership looks like. Thank you, @POTUS!”
Rep. Wesley Hunt: “Economic Security IS National Security — and PRESIDENT TRUMP is doing it again! This HISTORIC DEAL delivers:A stronger industrial baseTougher export controlsProtection of U.S. techBoosted steel productionThis is the Art of the Deal — the world is taking notes!”
Rep. Jim Jordan: “President Trump’s trade deal with the UK is the first of many to come. There’s no better negotiator. There’s no one better to fix Joe Biden’s broken economy.”
Rep. Young Kim: “I’m glad to see the Trump administration work with our ally Britain to promote fair trade and expand market opportunity for U.S. agricultural producers.”
Rep. David Kustoff: “Today, @POTUS unveiled a historic U.S.-UK trade deal. $5B in new market access, $6B in tariff revenue, and a stronger alliance! @realdonaldtrump keeps delivering on his promises! This is America First!”
Rep. Barry Loudermilk: “America has spent far too long on the losing end of global trade. President Trump pledged to put America’s interests first, and he is doing so beginning with this trade deal with one of our oldest allies. #promiseskept.”
Rep. Tom McClintock: “The freer the trade, the greater the benefits for all countries involved. The UK agreement takes us in the right direction. Let’s keep going toward a new golden age of global free trade and the peace and prosperity it produces.”
Rep. Dan Meuser: “This is a strong step forward. Fairer trade, lower energy costs, and pro-growth tax policies will keep driving investment here at home. I also laid out how we can responsibly reduce spending while extending key provisions of President Trump’s Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which delivered significant benefits for families and small businesses.”
Rep. Mary Miller: “THE ART OF THE DEAL!”
Rep. Riley Moore: “Absolute genius to announce this deal on V-E Day!”
Rep. Troy Nehls: President Trump is the Dealmaker in Chief. He has reached a historic trade deal with the United Kingdom. President Trump and his entire administration are working hard to protect American industries, protect American workers, and grow our economy. AMERICA FIRST!”
Rep. Ralph Norman: “MASSIVE win for our farmers who will have the opportunity for a wider range in markets!! Art of the deal.”
Rep. Andy Ogles: “President Trump delivers again!! This deal will bring billions home and make America stronger, richer, and more respected. A huge win for the American people.”
Rep. Gary Palmer: A win for our nation secured by President Trump! This is what it looks like to have leadership in the White House.”
Rep. August Pfluger: “President Trump just secured a huge trade deal—one I believe will be the first of many. This massive win for all Americans brings us one step closer to restoring fair trade policies.”
Rep. Adrian Smith: “I’m pleased the Trump administration has struck an initial trade deal with one of our nation’s greatest trade partners and longest-standing allies. This is a significant step toward eliminating barriers to American products in foreign markets and friendshoring supply chains. I commend President Trump and his administration for conducting negotiations swiftly to the mutual benefit of our producers, job creators, and consumers. This agreement builds upon the groundwork laid in the President’s first term, and I am pleased the administration has indicated it continues to pursue dynamic dialogue with the United Kingdom to address additional concerns.”
Rep. Marlin Stutzman: “As @POTUS says, the first of many, this is a great day for America! A combination of Trump’s trade deals and the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill will make our country strong for generations to come.”
Rep. Claudia Tenney: “.@POTUS is continuing to put America FIRST, working to strengthen our economy & national security by achieving historic trade deals. This is a huge win for American manufacturers & farmers, & there is only more winning to come!”
Rep. Beth Van Duyne: “The first of many historic trade deals!! Better market access for US products!”
Rep. Daniel Webster: Once again, @POTUS delivers for the American people by securing a historic trade deal with our key ally, the United Kingdom. This agreement lowers trade barriers, opening $5 billion of increased market access for American exports, especially for American farmers. Thank you President Trump for putting America’s farmers, businesses, and workers first!”
Rep. Tony Wied: “The Art of the Deal.”
Rep. Rudy Yakym: “President Trump is bringing countries to the table and securing fair trade deals. The first of many!”
Rep. Ryan Zinke: “Great news for Montana! The UK is our 6th largest trade partner and this will help that grow!”
House Committee on Agriculture: “This announcement is a big win for American agriculture! @POTUS is unlocking billions in new market access for U.S. exports like beef, ethanol, and more—boosting our GREAT farmers and rural economies!”
Republican Study Committee: “Another day, another historic deal secured by President Trump! This is a MASSIVE victory for American workers. PROMISES MADE, PROMISES KEPT!”

MIL OSI USA News –

May 9, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Alberta has long accused Ottawa of trying to destroy its oil industry. Here’s why that’s a dangerous myth

Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Ian Urquhart, Professor Emeritus, Political Science, University of Alberta

“Alberta is a place soaked in self-deception.” Those words began Alberta-based journalist Mark Lisac’s 2004 book aimed at shattering the myths that have unhelpfully animated too much of Alberta’s politics over the past few decades.

Current and former Alberta politicians are once again embracing and treating separatist grievances seriously. That means it’s time once again to highlight and challenge political misconceptions that have the potential to destroy Canada.

Oil is the root of one such myth. The misconception? That Ottawa perenially opposes the oil and gas sector and is determined to stop its continued growth. The National Energy Program (1980), the Northern Gateway pipeline project (2016), the Energy East Pipeline (2017) and the proposed greenhouse gas pollution cap allegedly prove Ottawa’s hostility.

Notably missing from these grievances is the Keystone XL pipeline and the Trans Mountain Expansion Project. Ottawa supported these projects aimed at transporting Alberta oilsands crude to foreign markets. The federal government even purchased the Trans Mountain project from Kinder Morgan in 2018 — not to kill it, but to build it.

Read more:
Justin Trudeau’s risky gamble on the Trans Mountain pipeline

As for Keystone XL, Alberta Premier Jason Kenney thanked Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for supporting the project. This doesn’t fit the separatist narrative, so it’s largely ignored.

Oilsands booster

No one should dispute the National Energy Program’s devastating impact on Alberta’s conventional oil and gas sector 40 years ago. But the oilsands, not conventional oil, propelled Canada to its position as the world’s fourth largest oil producer.

Has Ottawa facilitated or obstructed the spectacular post-1990 growth of oilsands production?

The record shows that, since the mid-1970s, Ottawa has facilitated and supported the oilsands sector. The federal government helped keep the Syncrude project alive in 1975 when it took a 15 per cent interest in Canada’s second oilsands operation.

Ironically, Ottawa’s enthusiasm for more, not less, petroleum from the oilsands also appeared in 1980 via the National Energy Program (NEP), the devil in Alberta’s conservative catechism. What most accounts of the NEP don’t mention is that Ottawa offered tax benefits to oilsands companies while stripping them from conventional oil producers.

Furthermore, the NEP’s “made-in-Canada” pricing effectively guaranteed Syncrude would receive the world price for its production. At $38 per barrel, Syncrude received more than double what conventional producers received. If the NEP was harsh on conventional oil producers, it helped create a golden future for the oil sands.

In the mid-1990s, Ottawa helped propel the post-1995 oilsands boom. The industry-dominated National Task Force on Oil Sands Strategies sought federal tax concessions to promote oilsands growth. The federal government delivered them in its 1996 budget, despite Prime Minister Jean Chretien’s general concern with cutting the deficit.

Again, these measures clearly contradict the myth of federal opposition to the oil industry.

Generous emissions caps

Ottawa’s policy favouritism towards the oilsands didn’t end there. It has consistently animated the federal government’s treatment of the oilsands in its climate change policies.

The federal Climate Change Plan for Canada (2002) treated oil and gas leniently. Its measures for large industrial emitters bore a striking resemblance to the climate change policy preferences of the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers. Suncor and Syncrude, the two leading oilsands producers, estimated these federal proposals would add a pittance, between 20 and 30 cents, to their per barrel production costs.

Justin Trudeau’s response to Alberta’s 2015 oilsands emissions cap also underlined Ottawa’s favouritism, not hostility, to the dominant player in Canada’s oil patch.

Rachel Notley’s NDP government set this cap at 100 million tonnes of GHG per year, plus another 10 million tonnes allowed to new upgrading and co-generation facilities. This cap was a whopping 39 million tonnes or 55 per cent higher than what the oilsands emitted in 2014.

This generous cap contributed to a tremendous increase in oilsands production. Healthy profits became record profits in 2022. Ottawa embraced Alberta’s largesse, incorporating the province’s cap into its post-2015 climate policies.

Furthermore, Ottawa increased its leniency towards the oilsands by exempting new in-situ (non-mining) oilsands projects in Alberta from the federal Impact Assessment Act. This exemption applies until Alberta’s emissions cap is reached. Canada’s latest National Inventory Report on greenhouse gas emissions reported record oilsands GHG emissions of 89 million tonnes in 2023, still 11 million tonnes shy of the 100 million tonne threshold.

Weaponizing myths

Finally, we have today’s proposed national cap on greenhouse gas emissions. Alberta is apoplectic about the cap. But whether or not it’s intentional, Premier Danielle Smith’s outrage feeds into secessionist sentiment by seemingly misrepresenting the cap’s impact on oil and gas production.

Smith and her environment minister use the work of the Parliamentary Budgetary Officer (PBO) to nurture their “Ottawa hates oil” narrative. They claim the officer’s analysis of the cap’s economic impact showed it “will cut oil and gas production by five per cent, or more than 245,000 barrels per day.”

This is simply not true.

In fact, the PBO concluded that, with the cap, oilsands production “is projected to remain well above current levels” — 15 per cent higher than in 2022. The proposed federal emissions cap, like the Alberta NDP’s cap of a decade ago, is higher than current oilsands emissions levels. The PBO concluded the proposed ceiling for oilsands emissions would be six per cent higher than 2022 emissions.

Ottawa’s proposed cap, in fact, continues its decades-long support of the oilsands.

Myths are central to our being. When I tell my grandsons about the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, I hope to inspire curiosity, imagination and interest in their grandmother’s Irish heritage.

But in politics, fanciful stories can be dangerous. Some weaponize myths, using the fictions at their core to encourage followers to let falsehoods rule their behaviour. That seems to be playing out yet again in Alberta. We must demand better from the political class.

Ian Urquhart 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. Alberta has long accused Ottawa of trying to destroy its oil industry. Here’s why that’s a dangerous myth – https://theconversation.com/alberta-has-long-accused-ottawa-of-trying-to-destroy-its-oil-industry-heres-why-thats-a-dangerous-myth-255908

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

May 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Magaziner Defends NOAA, Rhode Island Fishermen During House Natural Resources Committee Markup Debate

Source: US Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02)

WASHINGTON, DC – Yesterday, U.S. Rep. Seth Magaziner (RI-02) led in Democrats’ defense of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) during the Natural Resources Committee markup of the House Republicans’ sweeping reconciliation tax bill, which proposes deep cuts to programs that Rhode Island’s fishermen and coastal communities depend on, in order to pay for tax cuts for the rich.

The proposal includes deep cuts to NOAA, which plays a critical role in protecting national security by supplying data for military decision making, collects information on fish stocks that the livelihoods of Rhode Island fishermen depend on, and provides weather data used by meteorologists, farmers, and countless other Americans.

House Republicans are attempting to pass a package of tax cuts expected to predominantly benefit the wealthy and big corporations, through a process called reconciliation that requires offsetting cuts to federal programs. Democratic members of the Natural Resources Committee submitted amendments to the legislation, with Magaziner proposing amendments to reverse all proposed cuts to NOAA in the bill, and to ensure that all NOAA services and operations that support military readiness are preserved – both of which were blocked by the Republican majority.

“The House Natural Resources Committee should work together on a bipartisan basis to create good-paying clean energy jobs, support Rhode Island’s fishermen and growing coastal economy, and invest in national parks – a source of pride for our nation,” said Magaziner. “Instead, Republicans in the majority are pushing a partisan bill that guts critical programs like NOAA—not to help working people, but to hand out more tax breaks to billionaires and provide giveaways to Big Oil. The people of Rhode Island deserve better.”

Magaziner also spoke out against proposed Republican funding cuts targeting national parks and environmental protection, as well as the proposed return of noncompetitive leasing in federal oil and gas lease sales.

You can view or download Rep. Magaziner’s opening remarks from this week’s committee markup here.

BACKGROUND

In Rhode Island, NOAA supports a fishing and aquaculture industry that supports thousands of jobs, provides lifesaving weather forecasting, and funds research that strengthens the state’s coastal economy and conservation of ocean resources.

Despite its critical mission, NOAA has become a primary target of the Trump administration and Elon Musk’s DOGE. Since January, NOAA has faced an unprecedented wave of political interference: censorship of climate research, purging of expert staff, the shutdown of oversight committees, and forced layoffs. Just last week, the Trump Administration sent an agency-wide email announcing that it has eliminated 1,000 NOAA employees with over 27,000 years of collective experience.

Last month, Magaziner led House Natural Resources Committee Democrats in a congressional forum on the devastating impact of cuts to NOAA, highlighting how mass layoffs and facility closures at the agency hurt Rhode Island’s coastal economy and national security interests.

The forum brought together voices from the fishing industry, environmental advocacy, and public service at the nation’s capital—including Sarah Schumann, a Rhode Island commercial fisher and Director of the Fishery Friendly Climate Action Campaign—to testify on the impact of Trump Administration cuts to NOAA.

Previously, Magaziner hosted a roundtable in Providence to hear from Rhode Island fishing, aquaculture, environmental, and conservation leaders about their concerns surrounding a weakened NOAA.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Alert: Reed Warns Trump’s Efforts to Dismantle NOAA Threatens Economy, People, & Environment

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

WASHINGTON, DC – As hurricane season approaches, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) is leading Senate colleagues in sounding the alarm about President Trump’s attacks on the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the National Weather Service (NWS) and urging bipartisan action to protect the critical agency from privatization.

Every day, NOAA employees collect, analyze, and freely disseminate vast amounts of data through its National Weather Service – vital information all Americans count on. American commerce – particularly the transportation sector – relies heavily on federal weather forecasts, flooding predictions, hurricane and storm alerts, air temperature readings, nautical charts, and other scientific data. The research, services, and forecasts provided by these federal agencies is essential for everything from accurately predicting the next severe weather front to supporting farmers and fishermen to scientifically assessing the long-term costs of extreme weather events linked to climate change.

In a letter to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, Senator Reed led U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chris Coons (D-DE), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ed Markey (D-MA) in pointing to a new public letter released this week by five former Weather Service directors. The Senators say it offers an early warning on how the Trump Administration’s cuts to staff and programs could lead to “needless loss of life.”

“On May 2, five former NWS Directors – who served under both Republican and Democratic administrations – wrote a letter expressing alarm that the NWS is operating at a dangerous staffing deficit, with more than 10% of its workforce lost in recent months due to the Trump Administration’s reckless buyouts and mass firings,” the Senators wrote. “These massive staffing cuts, combined with the Trump Administration’s proposal to slash funding for the NWS’s parent agency – the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration – by 25%, led these Directors to conclude that their “worst nightmare is that weather forecast offices will be so understaffed that there will be needless loss of life.””

In his preliminary budget request, President Trump called for a $1.5 billion cut to NOAA programs, including a $209 million cut for NOAA’s weather satellites which help to ensure accurate weather forecasting is available to Americans.

In their letter, the five Senators called on Secretary Lutnick to “reverse course on the Trump Administration’s staffing and funding cuts, which will prevent the National Weather Service (NWS) from being fully prepared and operational.”

According to NWS, its employees collect over six billion weather observations every day, monitor local conditions through a host of field offices across the nation, issue daily forecasts, and circulate warnings before dangerous weather events. NWS provides the public with forecasts and alerts free of charge. Private companies like AccuWeather, Google, and Apple also rely on NOAA’s observational data and satellites, buoys, and weather sensors to power their own weather products.

The Senators say that President Trump’s proposed cuts, paired with the administration’s efforts to significantly downsize NOAA and NWS, is already upending the agency’s ability to promptly alert and prepare Americans for imminent and dangerous severe weather events.

“Forecasters at Colorado State University have predicted an “above-average” 2025 hurricane season, with an estimated nine hurricanes, four of which are expected to reach Category 3 status or stronger,” the Senators continued. “Understaffed forecast offices mean longer wait times for critical alerts, slower radar maintenance, and a reduction in the high level of accuracy the public has come to rely upon. Any degradation in service risks loss of life, economic disruption, and long-term damage to public trust in our nation’s ability to prepare for and respond to extreme weather.”

Earlier this year, the so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) either fired or pushed out more than 10 percent of NOAA’s workforce, including top meteorologists and researchers who are charged with providing the public with accurate, life-saving weather reports and data. The Administration is reportedly working on further diminishing NOAA’s workforce by another 10 percent.

According to data obtained by the Associated Press, nearly half of all NWS forecast offices are now critically understaffed. Due to these shortages, NWS meteorologists are reportedly being forced to forego important surveys of storm damage that help inform and improve future forecasts and warnings.

While researchers, scientists, and experts point to a connection between climate change and worsening extreme storms, the Trump Administration is reportedly planning to propose eliminating NOAA’s research office and cutting NOAA research funding by 74 percent. It is anticipated that cuts to NOAA climate programs and activities will also have impacts on the collection of key weather data.

In March, Senator Reed called attention to the Trump Administration’s staffing cuts at NOAA and NWS and warned about negative impacts for Rhode Islanders. And last fall, Senator Reed sounded the alarm about Project 2025’s extremist plan to dismantle NOAA, which it labelled “one of the main drivers of the climate change alarm industry.” Reed warned plans to gut the National Weather Service and emergency management would be a major disaster.

Full text of the letter follows:

May 8, 2025

The Honorable Howard Lutnick, Secretary

U.S. Department of Commerce

1401 Constitution Ave NW

Washington, D.C. 20230

Dear Secretary Lutnick:

As we approach the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, which begins on June 1, we write to demand you reverse course on the Trump Administration’s staffing and funding cuts, which will prevent the National Weather Service (NWS) from being fully prepared and operational.

The NWS and its employees play a critical role in protecting lives, property, and our national economy. From issuing tornado and hurricane warnings to providing essential weather information for aviation, shipping, agriculture, and emergency response, the NWS is integral to Americans’ daily lives. Its employees include highly trained meteorologists, technicians, and support staff who work hard to deliver life-saving data all across the United States.

On May 2, five former NWS Directors – who served under both Republican and Democratic administrations – wrote a letter expressing alarm that the NWS is operating at a dangerous staffing deficit, with more than 10% of its workforce lost in recent months due to the Trump Administration’s reckless buyouts and mass firings. These massive staffing cuts, combined with the Trump Administration’s proposal to slash funding for the NWS’s parent agency – the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration – by 25%, led these Directors to conclude that their “worst nightmare is that weather forecast offices will be so understaffed that there will be needless loss of life.”

Forecasters at Colorado State University have predicted an “above-average” 2025 hurricane season, with an estimated nine hurricanes, four of which are expected to reach Category 3 status or stronger. Understaffed forecast offices mean longer wait times for critical alerts, slower radar maintenance, and a reduction in the high level of accuracy the public has come to rely upon. Any degradation in service risks loss of life, economic disruption, and long-term damage to public trust in our nation’s ability to prepare for and respond to extreme weather.

We urge you to provide a detailed plan on how you will ensure that this critical agency has the staffing and resources it needs to ensure Americans are safe heading into this hurricane season. We look forward to your prompt response to this important matter.

Sincerely,

MIL OSI USA News –

May 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Kemp Signs Legislation Delivering Hurricane Helene Relief and Supporting Georgia Agriculture and Forestry

Source: US State of Georgia

ATLANTA – Governor Brian P. Kemp, joined by First Lady Marty Kemp, Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper, Georgia Forestry Commission Director Johnny Sabo, constitutional officers, and members of the Georgia General Assembly, signed three pieces of legislation that provides support for Georgia’s agriculture and forestry industry and delivers promised relief to farmers and timber producers impacted by Hurricane Helene.

“Our farmers and foresters are tough people,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “Their commitment to moving forward after all they’ve faced is an inspiration to us all. There is still more work to be done, but I’m proud to sign these bills and deliver on our promises to the men and women who are the backbone of our state. I’m also grateful for the dedicated efforts of all of our partners in the General Assembly whose steadfast leadership and determination helped make today possible.”

HB 223, a priority of Governor Brian Kemp, championed by Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones, Speaker Jon Burns, Commissioner Tyler Harper, Representative Chuck Efstration, and Committee Chairmen Shaw Blackmon, Chuck Hufstetler, Matt Hatchett, Blake Tillery, sponsored by Representative James Burchett, carried in the Senate by Senator Russ Goodman, exempts federal crop loss payments and disaster payments from state income tax, establishes a reforestation tax credit to help timber producers recover from the storm and encourage them to replant their crop, allows local governments to temporarily suspend their collection of harvest tax on timber producers to assist them in cleanup efforts, and provides a temporary addition to the Georgia Agricultural Tax Exemption (GATE) for building materials to repair and rebuild poultry houses, livestock facilities, greenhouses, and other agricultural structures.

In addition to HB 223 Governor Kemp signed the following pieces of legislation:

SB 201, sponsored by Senator Larry Walker and carried in the House by Representative Leesa Hagan, provides increased protection for consumers when entering into contracts with contractors following natural disasters.

HB 143, sponsored by Representative Robert Dickey, carried in the Senate by Senator Sam Watson, and championed by the Georgia Environmental Protection Division, shifts the burden of agricultural water metering equipment installation and maintenance from farmers back to the state.

Governor Kemp extends his appreciation to all of those whose diligent work and efforts led to him being able to sign these bills today.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Brownley and House Natural Resources Democrats Reject Republicans’ Plan to Sacrifice our Public Lands, Waters and Wildlife for Billionaire Tax Cuts
Source: United States House of Representatives – Julia Brownley (D-CA)
Washington, DC – On Tuesday, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (CA-26) and House Natural Resources Committee Democrats rejected House Republicans’ plan to sell off our lands, waters, and wildlife to fund tax cuts for billionaires in the Committee’s portion of the Republican reconciliation package. Democrats were united in the bipartisan opposition to a Republican amendment offered in the dead of night to sell off thousands of acres of public lands. While House Republicans remained silent, Democrats presented a unified front to protect communities, the American taxpayers, and our most cherished places.

“Republicans have launched one of the most egregious attacks on our public lands, our waters, and our health that we have ever witnessed. It hands over our national parks, forests, and precious natural resources to oil and gas corporations, putting their profits over the safety and well-being of the American people,” said Congresswoman Brownley. “In exchange for giveaways to the wealthiest polluters, American families will face higher energy costs, dirtier air and water, and more frequent environmental disasters. This is the same ‘polluters over people’ agenda that has defined the Trump Administration, where corporate greed comes first and the American people pay the price. This Republican proposal will add billions to the deficit while selling off our environment, our economy, and our future to the highest bidder. This bill is shameful, and the American people deserve better.”

“Republicans just rammed the most extreme, anti-environment legislation in American history through the Natural Resources Committee. It’s a billionaires-first, Americans-last giveaway to benefit Big Oil and polluters,” said Ranking Member Jared Huffman (CA-02). “It guts clean air and water protections, slashes funding for our national parks, and sells off, auctions off, and even allows for giving away our public lands to special interests. For the first time, Americans who simply want their voices heard on Big Oil projects on federal land will be slapped with fees for daring to protest. House Republicans not only voted in lock-step for this cartoonishly extreme bill, they refused to participate in any public debate or discussion about it. I’m sure they had plenty of discussion with their corporate polluter puppet masters, but in the only public hearing before this bill goes to the House Floor they refused to even discuss it. The American people deserve better policy and process than what they’re getting from this GOP Congress. I’m proud that Democrats showed up and fully engaged in debating and challenging this terrible bill. We fought back. And we’ll keep fighting for Americans’ basic freedoms, which include clean air, safe water, healthy communities, and a livable planet for future generations.”

“The only thing these budget gimmicks will do is drive up Big Oil profits, CEO pay, and shareholder dividends at the expense of our public lands and the American taxpayer,” said Congresswoman Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03). “We should be caring about the everyday Americans who are going to be suffering from the consequences of these decisions for years. Our constituents, who are already facing a climate crisis with heat wave after heat wave, who are getting sick from the pollution released by coal fired power plants and petrochemical facilities next door, all compounded by threats of serious cuts to Medicaid healthcare coverage.”

“House Republicans are once again putting polluters over people. But as a mother, I refuse to let my children’s future be auctioned off to Big Oil. I offered common-sense amendments that range from blocking funds to agencies that refuse to comply with the courts to stopping oil and gas drilling near schools and hospitals,” said Congresswoman Maxine Dexter (OR-03). “This bill is a giveaway to Big Oil and billionaires. My amendments demand House Republicans choose: people or polluters?”

“Instead of advancing a budget that helps address the challenges Americans are confronting, House Republicans are combining the most extreme attack on our nation’s natural resources with enormous cuts to Medicaid, Social Security, and other critical programs working families depend on every single day,” said Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06). “We should be focusing on expanding public access to federal lands, not auctioning them off. And we should be investing in our National Parks System and National Wildlife Refuges, not making it harder for Americans to visit these special places. This bill doesn’t put Americans first—it gives massive handouts to pad polluters’ pockets with no regard for the environment.”

“This is a fire sale on our federal land and waters,” said Congresswoman Sarah Elfreth (MD-03). “This bill reduces corporate fees and eliminates environmental and judicial safeguards that our constituents deserve. And, all for what? There is no guarantee that any of those resources will benefit Americans or lower the cost of energy for our taxpayers. We’ll still be exporting this oil just like before. We’ll still be importing oil to our refineries. We’re putting at real risk the natural resources and national security assets that I’ll address with my amendments. Taxpayers will once again be footing the bill for large corporations from all over the world who score a lease to pillage our land with no recourse. I believe that our taxpayers simply deserve better.”

“This bill is a giveaway to big oil and gas companies at the expense of our environment, workers, and communities,” said Congresswoman Val Hoyle (OR-04). “Instead of investing in bipartisan priorities like wildfire prevention or strengthening our coastal communities, it prioritizes polluters and weakens the very protections Americans rely on. I stand firmly against this reckless and misguided approach.”

“This bill is nothing more than a billion-dollar giveaway to corporations,” said Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03). “House Republicans are selling off our lands, slashing corporate royalty rates, and raising fees on clean energy—all to pay for tax breaks for billionaires. They’re making our families pay the price in higher energy bills, polluted water, and more extreme climate disasters. I offered amendments to protect Tribal sovereignty, keep revenues in oil and gas producing states like New Mexico, and block foreign adversaries from exploiting our resources. These are common sense protections—but Republicans chose to protect polluters over working families.”

“The devastating effects of climate change will cost us trillions of dollars and lead to catastrophic threats to our civilization,” said Congressman Dave Min (CA-47). “We have both a moral and economic imperative to fight back and give our children the opportunity to grow up in a world where they can breathe clean air, drink clean water, and have the freedom to chase the American dream. That’s why I led four amendments to stand up for our environment and fight back against the Trump administration.”

“The GOP is trying to pass a massive tax break to billionaires, and it will cost the American people $7 trillion on the backs of the American people and the expense of the environment,” said Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury (NM-01). “I was truly shocked when I read this reconciliation package before the Natural Resources Committee. It has mandatory oil and gas leasing, mining, and logging requirements. It gives away public lands and resources, not to the highest bidder, but to the lowest bidder. And, it takes away the rights of the American people to participate in planning, permitting, and holding bad actors accountable. That means impacts on public lands and waters without accountability. Furthermore, it is based on a completely false premise that will undermine the protection of our economy, our communities, and the environment. That’s why I am prepared to sit here as long as it takes to fight this bill.”

Background

House Republicans are squandering Americans’ money, health, and safety to pad polluters’ pockets. The House Natural Resources Committee’s portion of the Republican reconciliation package, which was pushed through without support from Committee Democrats, does the following:
- Instantly boosts big oil and gas company profits by letting them drill and frack at bargain-basement prices while robbing taxpayers blind.
- Puts polluters before people by letting the wealthy companies pay for legal immunity for inadequate environmental reviews and slapping Americans with exorbitant fees to protest oil and gas pollution.
- Slashes funding for critical and popular public services like NOAA’s coastal restoration and resilience efforts and the National Parks workforce, making it harder for Americans to protect their communities from natural hazards and visit our nation’s most scenic and inspiring places.
- Locks up 4 million acres for unprofitable coal mining – more land than the entire state of Connecticut – taking our energy policy back to the 19th century.
- Mandates dirty mining and drilling deals that will create toxic disasters in our nation’s most pristine lands and waters, permanently polluting places like the Boundary Waters and the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.
- Crushes clean energy development by jacking up fees for wind and solar while slashing fees for oil and coal.
- Wipes out protections for endangered species, including dooming the planet’s most endangered whale to extinction by waiving all sensible safeguards for offshore oil and gas operations.
- Sells off public lands to pay for handouts to big oil and tax cuts for billionaires – a surprise, late-night amendment paves the way for a fire sale of public lands.
Republicans had the opportunity to support common-sense safeguards and improve the bill. However, they rejected numerous Democratic amendments, including those to do the following:

Bolster essential and lifesaving public services:
- Congresswoman Brownley’s amendment (#65) redirecting funding to NOAA climate monitoring, weather forecasts, and disaster preparedness.
- Congressman Magaziner’s amendment (#213) striking recissions of IRA funds for National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration investments in coastal communities and climate resilience and facilities.
- Congresswoman Leger Fernandez (#69) and Representative Hoyle’s (#70) amendments to fund wildland firefighting and fuels reduction.
- Congresswoman Randall’s amendment (#18) to fund the Bureau of Indian Education, and Congresswoman Ledger Fernandez’s amendment (#38) to fund the Indian Health Service.
Hold oil, gas, and mining companies accountable and ensure a fair return for taxpayers:
- Congresswoman Brownley’s amendment (#61) to require DOI to assess a fee on oil and gas operators to pay for the decommissioning of offshore pipelines in the event of bankruptcy.
- Congressman Min’s amendment (#44) to require DOI to increase financial assurances from oil and gas companies before reduced royalties can take effect.
- Congresswoman Ansari’s amendment to (#19) to deny new leases for oil and gas companies if they have been found liable for collusion.
- Congresswoman Stansbury’s amendment (#9) to prevent bad actor mining companies from operating on federal land if they are owned by foreign adversaries, have a history of using slave labor, or otherwise break the law.
Prevent dangerous pollution:
- Congresswoman Elfreth’s amendment (#129) to prohibit offshore drilling where the Defense Department has determined it is incompatible with military readiness, including off the coast of Virginia, other Atlantic Coast states, and the Eastern Gulf.
- Ranking Member Huffman’s amendments (#20 and #35) to protect the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and the Boundary Waters.
- Congresswoman Rivas’s amendment (#210) striking the rescission of funding for the Council on Environmental Quality’s environmental justice screening tool.
Stop corruption and illegal actions:
- Congresswoman Rivas’s amendment (#183) prohibiting funding for new contracts with Elon Musk’s companies until Inspectors General determine there are no conflicts of interest.
- Congresswoman Ansari’s amendment (#301) striking the text of the bill and inserting the STOCK Act 2.0, to prevent government officials from being able to trade individual stocks.
- Congresswoman Stansbury’s amendment (#150) directing funds to applicable Inspectors General to report to Congress on the impacts of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) actions on staffing, program services, funding, and data security.
Ensure healthy and accessible public lands and waters:
- Congressman Neguse’s amendment (#139) striking the language that rescinds funding National Park Service staffing.
- Congressman Soto’s amendment (#13) to redirect funding to coral reef conservation.
- Congresswoman Randall’s amendment (#144) restoring funding for the Fish and Wildlife Service fish passage restoration program.
- Congresswoman Dingell’s amendment (#82) to prohibit any recissions of funds for Great Lakes fisheries, harmful algal blooms, and resilience.
Protect Americans’ rights to provide public input:
- Congresswoman Dexter’s amendment (#15) striking protest filing fees.
- Ranking Member Huffman’s amendment (#247) striking the section creating a “pay-to-play” process for NEPA.
Advance clean and affordable energy:
- Resident Commissioner Hernández’s amendment (#201) to ensure utility-scale solar financing is implemented on schedule.
- Congressman Min’s amendment (#45) preventing lease sales until the Trump Administration’s national energy policy includes wind and solar energy.
- Congresswoman Hoyle’s amendment (#186) to ensure the recent firings at the Power Marketing Administrations will not result in a loss of power for ratepayers.
A full list of amendments offered by Committee Democrats and blocked by Republicans can be found here.

###

Issues: 119th Congress, Climate Crisis, Disaster Relief, Energy and Environment

MIL OSI USA News –
May 9, 2025
MIL-OSI: Franklin Electric Announces Appointment of Jennifer L. Sherman as Chairperson; Mark Carano Elected to be a Director of the Company

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

FORT WAYNE, Ind., May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Board of Directors of Franklin Electric Co., Inc. (NASDAQ: FELE) has elected Jennifer L. Sherman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Federal Signal Corporation, as Chairperson effective as of May 2, 2025 for a term expiring at the 2026 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. Ms. Sherman has been a Director of the Company since 2015. Joe Ruzynski, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer, commented: “I want to congratulate Jennifer on her election as Chairperson of Franklin Electric. She knows the Company well, having served on our Board of Directors for 10 years, and I am looking forward to working closely with her to further develop and refine Franklin’s strategy.”

In addition, the Company is pleased to announce that Mark A. Carano, Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of SPX Technologies, Inc. has been appointed as a director of the Company effective May 7, 2025 for a term expiring at the 2027 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. Mr. Carano has served in that role since 2023. Prior thereto, Mr. Carano served as Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of Insteel Industries, Inc., and Chief Financial Officer of Big River Steel LLC, following 14 years in investment banking.

Mr. Carano earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Vanderbilt University and an MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg Business School.

Ms. Sherman, Franklin’s Chairperson of the Board, commented: “I have confidence that Mark’s extensive financial and manufacturing sector experience will provide a unique perspective to our deliberations. His investment banking and corporate deal-making experience will be invaluable as Franklin Electric continues to look for opportunities to grow through accretive acquisitions. I join my fellow directors in welcoming Mark to the Board and we look forward to benefitting from his leadership and expertise.”

About Franklin Electric
Franklin Electric is a global leader in the production and marketing of systems and components for the movement of water and energy. Recognized as a technical leader in its products and services, Franklin Electric serves customers worldwide in residential, commercial, agricultural, industrial, municipal, and fueling applications. Franklin Electric is proud to be recognized in Newsweek’s lists of America’s Most Responsible Companies 2024, Most Trustworthy Companies 2024, and Greenest Companies 2025; Best Places to Work in Indiana 2024; and America’s Climate Leaders 2024 by USA Today.

“Safe Harbor” Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Any forward-looking statements contained herein, including those relating to market conditions or the Company’s financial results, costs, expenses or expense reductions, profit margins, inventory levels, foreign currency translation rates, liquidity expectations, business goals and sales growth, involve risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to, risks and uncertainties with respect to general economic and currency conditions, various conditions specific to the Company’s business and industry, weather conditions, new housing starts, market demand, competitive factors, changes in distribution channels, supply constraints, effect of price increases, raw material costs, technology factors, integration of acquisitions, litigation, government and regulatory actions, the Company’s accounting policies, future trends, epidemics and pandemics, and other risks which are detailed in the Company’s Securities and Exchange Commission filings, included in Item 1A of Part I of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2024, Exhibit 99.1 attached thereto and in Item 1A of Part II of the Company’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. These risks and uncertainties may cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated by the forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements made herein are based on information currently available, and the Company assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements.

Contact:
Russ Fleeger
Franklin Electric Co., Inc.
260.824.2900

The MIL Network –

May 9, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Private School Settles with Justice Department to Address Discrimination Against Children with Disabilities

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

Richard G. Frohling, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on May 8, 2025, Wisconsin Montessori Society, Inc., d/b/a Milwaukee Montessori School (MMS) agreed to injunctive relief and payment of $290,000 to resolve allegations that it failed to provide full and equal enjoyment of its educational services to children with disabilities, in violation of Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), 42 U.S.C. §§ 12131-12189.

MMS is a private day school that offers pre-K through grade 8 education. Private schools, day care centers, and other places of education are generally prohibited from discriminating on the basis of disability under Title III of the ADA. Disabled individuals protected under Title III include both individuals with an actual disability—meaning “a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities of such individual”—as well as individuals “regarded as having such an impairment.”

Since at least 2018, MMS has discriminated against young children with disabilities. MMS has: (1) denied, on the basis of disability, participation in its educational services to disabled children by expelling and refusing to admit them; (2) denied disabled children equal participation in MMS’s educational services by repeatedly sending them to the office, seating them separately from other students, and sending them home early because of manifestations of their disabilities; and (3) failed to make reasonable modifications for disabled children. MMS’s discriminatory actions are evidenced by the experiences of ten children described in the Settlement Agreement.

“Children with disabilities have the right to access the educational opportunities offered by private schools, including Montessori schools,” said Acting United States Richard Frohling. “This settlement is an important reminder that the ADA’s obligations extend to private schools and their treatment of students with disabilities.”

Under the settlement agreement, MMS will pay monetary damages of $240,000 to compensate aggrieved persons as well as a civil penalty of $50,000 to the United States. It also includes injunctive relief that requires monitoring and reporting, and MMS has voluntarily taken some steps to address the government’s findings.

The ADA authorizes the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate complaints and undertake periodic reviews of covered entities. The Department of Justice is also authorized to commence a civil lawsuit in federal court and to seek injunctive relief, monetary damages, and civil penalties.

Assistant United States Attorneys Lisa Yun and Nia Schmaltz represented the government in this matter. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only; MMS does not admit liability for the allegations.

# # #

For Additional Information Contact:

Public Information Officer

Kenneth.Gales@usdoj.gov

414-297-1700

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MIL Security OSI –

May 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven: Secretary Rollins Prioritizes Fully Staffing Farm Service Agency, Field Offices

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven

05.08.25

USDA Application Process for Weather-Based Disaster Aid to Begin in Coming Weeks

WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven, chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee, this week secured a commitment from Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins to prioritize Farm Service Agency (FSA) staff and field offices to ensure frontline support for the nation’s farmers and ranchers. Additionally, the senator outlined the importance of the $33.5 billion in agriculture disaster aid he secured at the end of the year in providing farmers and ranchers with a bridge as Congress works to improve crop insurance and update reference prices in the next farm bill. Hoeven thanked Secretary Rollins for delivering the $10 billion in market-based agriculture disaster assistance, and continues working with the Secretary to advance the $21 billion in weather-related assistance. Secretary Rollins indicated that USDA’s application process for the weather-based ag aid will open in the coming weeks.

“We have to make sure we’re getting it done for our farmers and our ranchers every single day. We want to work together to find savings, but we have to know that we’re still going to deliver the service that keeps our family farms and ranches going, to the benefit of every single American,” said Hoeven. “We appreciate Secretary Rollins making it a priority to fully-staff and keep open FSA offices. These front-line FSA officers are the ones who work directly with our farmers and ranchers and help provide the service they deserve.

“We secured $33.5 billion to help our producers with challenges, whether it’s markets, whether it’s prices, and certainly always the weather – none of which they control. Secretary Rollins worked to get out the $10 billion in market-based disaster agriculture aid within 90 days, with North Dakota producers having already received about half a billion dollars from that tranche. We want to continue working together to implement the $21 billion weather-based assistance and we appreciate USDA’s commitment to begin that process in the coming weeks,” the senator said.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 9, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: How Tove Jansson’s Moomins illustrations taught us to imagine, resist and belong

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Amelia Huw Morgan, Senior Lecturer Illustration, Cardiff Metropolitan University

There is a world beyond our own, where imagination and reality meet, and where, for 80 years, Tove Jansson’s Moomins illustrations have offered readers a way to recognise themselves.

Before Moomin books began to be published in 1945, early Moomin characters appeared, grumpily, in publications like the Finnish satirical magazine Garm. Jansson had started her career there in 1929. Her witty caricatures led to her making a name for herself, relishing the opportunity to be “beastly to Stalin and Hitler”.

But as war engulfed the world in the 1940s, Jansson turned away from direct satire. Instead, she took the Moomins to the soft refuge of her newly imagined Moominvalley, to live more safely, simply and happily, where they continued to grapple with serious issues. She later recalled that at the time she “felt that the only thing one could do was to write fairy tales”.

Cover of the 1950 paperback edition of Finn Family Moomintroll.
Tove Jansson/Wikimedia

Since then, her creations have provided a haven where melancholy, joy and wonder can exist side by side. Through their soft, contrary, strange and heavy lightness, the Moomins’ theorise and share wisdom.

Illustrated children’s books like the Moomins can turn into our forever books. For this reason, children’s literature should always be taken seriously, as former children’s laureate Lauren Child has argued.

But in today’s publishing world, illustrations often seem designed simply to fatten pages up. They look like something but can feel like nothing.

Golden age

During the golden age of illustration between 1890 and 1930, illustrators gave children a new and vital aspect of childhood. They created books that supported young readers as they grew.

Illustrators like Kate Greenaway and Beatrix Potter who Jansson much admired, took children seriously. They met them unpatronisingly and valued their imaginations.

Greenaway’s illustrations for songs, parlour games and nursery rhymes, as well as her famous drawings for the Pied Piper of Hamelin, and Potter’s courageous problem-solving animals, charm the child who will one day become an adult.

Front cover of The Moomins and the Great Flood.
Tove Jansson/Wikimedia

Jansson’s tiny ink marks continued this tradition. As you travel through the expanse of Moominvalley, she holds the reader close, transporting them to the Moomins’ consciousness. The texture of her illustrations make them almost tangible.

Our imaginations become fertile and awake. From the slippery feel of seaweed underfoot to the dim light of a cold room, everything is heightened by the Moomins’ glowing whiteness. Their thoughtful eyes widen to produce subtle emotions.

Jansson’s techniques are much like the methods used by writers such as Katherine Mansfield (1888 – 1923). She was a pioneering modernist and her work is now praised for its accessible approach to writing short stories. Mansfield threw her readers into her characters’ experiences to feel their feelings and think their thoughts. Mansfield’s astute observations and empathy entwined to sustain sophisticated stories which feel fresh to this day.

Similarly, Jansson’s drawings refuse to patronise or simplify. They respect the reader’s intelligence, offering stories that enchant and challenge in equal measure.

Jansson placed her characters between reality and imagination. Her comic strips had spoken to a world of dictators, of vanity and class. This allowed her to form, in Moominvalley, a place also to observe, make comment, fight back, perhaps even ridicule. She kept the satirical qualities but made them more palatable to children as well as adults.

The UK version of the Polish felt stop motion Moomins animation.

Texture

Perhaps the 1977 to 1982 Polish stop-motion Moomin animations captured the texture of Jansson’s world best. In these felted forms, the Moomins remained soft, slightly wobbly and imperfect, just as in the original ink lines.

The more polished, digital and sharp-edged the Moomins become, the more their truth seems to recede. Commercialisation has pushed the Moomins into the bright, glossy world of merchandise – mugs, theme parks and endless shelf life. But in the rush to perfect and brand them, we risk losing the open, imaginative spaces Jansson drew.

Her illustrations matter because they are portals, openings into parallel worlds that help us better understand ourselves. Early fairy tales were deliberately sparse and undetailed, leaving space for a child’s imagination to roam freely. Jansson’s illustrations do the same.

In the penultimate chapter of her second Moomin book Comet in Moominland, Moominmama sings a lullaby to the children who have returned from their adventure:

Snuggle up close and shut your eyes tight

And sleep without dreaming the whole of the night

The comet is gone and your mother is near

To keep you from harm till the morning is near

It’s a moment of comfort, of deep protection. A mother willing her children to forget what they’ve seen. But viewed from today’s perspective, in a world saturated with fear, uncertainty and noise, it also raises a question. Should we be lulled into forgetting, or, as Jansson’s illustrations suggest, should we remain half-awake?

Her drawings never offer perfection. The ink lines wobble and hold tension and gentleness together, just as her stories balance safety with peril. Jansson’s illustrations invite us to embrace the vulnerability and the danger, the wholesome and the pure. They give us space to feel deeply and think clearly, in a world that often discourages both.

Amelia Huw Morgan 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. How Tove Jansson’s Moomins illustrations taught us to imagine, resist and belong – https://theconversation.com/how-tove-janssons-moomins-illustrations-taught-us-to-imagine-resist-and-belong-254631

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

May 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Wicker, Gillibrand Introduce Vieques Recovery and Redevelopment Act
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Mississippi Roger Wicker

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Roger Wicker, R-Miss., and Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., introduced the Vieques Recovery and Redevelopment Act. This bipartisan legislation would address the severe health inequities faced by the residents of Vieques off the coast of Puerto Rico. These severe health outcomes are a result of environmental contamination caused by the U.S. Navy’s decades-long usage of the island for military training exercises and as a bombing range.

“The U.S. Navy left the island of Vieques over twenty years ago, but the thousands of American citizens who live there continue to suffer from contamination and high rates of illness,” said Senator Wicker. “It is time for the U.S. government to settle these victims’ claims and help improve the island’s healthcare infrastructure for the future.”

“For too long, the people of Vieques have lived with the devastating health and environmental impacts of military testing on their island,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This bill delivers long overdue justice by providing compensation to those harmed, rebuilding access to healthcare, and strengthening efforts to clean up the toxic waste that continues to threaten the Vieques community. I’m proud to help lead this bipartisan effort to finally give the people of Vieques the support and resources they deserve.”

Full text of the resolution can be found here.

Background:
- From the 1940s until 2003, the U.S. Navy used the island for training exercises and as a bombing range.
- Decades of munitions testing on the small island led to severe environmental contamination. Vieques’ residents have suffered from the health impacts of long-term exposure to this environmental contamination, including higher rates of cancer, cirrhosis, hypertension, diabetes, and heavy metal diseases.
- To date, the U.S. government has not provided the residents of Vieques with compensation for damages to their health. Hurricane Maria destroyed Vieques’ only health care center in 2017, exacerbating the island’s health crisis.
- Today, residents of Vieques must travel by ferry to the main island of Puerto Rico to receive medical care, a dangerous situation that is especially difficult for cancer and dialysis patients. The health crisis in Vieques only continues to worsen, demonstrating why Congress must act with urgency to pass this bipartisan legislation.
MIL OSI USA News –
May 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Acts of Service Across Arkansas

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04)

Americans, and certainly Arkansans, are no strangers to adversity. In our most challenging times, folks across Arkansas have always been courageous, shown sincere determination and grit, and come together in order to emerge more united and stronger than we were before. Last week’s storms certainly brought adversity and uncertainty, and it was encouraging to see the state come together to provide relief and help to friends and neighbors.

There wasn’t a single corner of the Natural State that didn’t find itself on the receiving end of rainfall levels unlike anything we’ve seen before. Flooding created road closures and life-threatening situations for many areas across the state. Tornadoes wreaked havoc on homes and businesses, laying waste and devastating everything in its path, including 3 people who lost their lives and 32 more injured.

In these moments when Arkansans find themselves wondering how to move forward, the Arkansas National Guard steps up time and time again, fully embodying their motto of “Arkansas First.” Across the state, we witnessed these selfless men and women travel to the communities most heavily hit to administer aid like the 39th Brigade Support Battalion who traveled to Malvern to set up a potable water station to support the city and its surrounding areas until clean water could be restored. Other units were mobilized across the state to combat the issues brought by increased water levels and storm damage that would be the result of the severe weather passing through.

Everyone from local businesses and governments, fire departments, law enforcement, EMS, and even friends and neighbors, have been eager to serve their fellow Arkansans in the wake of the devastation brought by these spring storms. It’s been immensely encouraging to see everyone come to the aid of Arkansans in need, painting a true depiction of the values that make the Natural State truly such a great place to live: hospitality, generosity, and service. It’s times like these that I’m especially proud to be an Arkansan, and it is my sincere hope that everyone stays safe as we continue to restore the damage across our state.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: New Yorkers Encouraged to Sign Up for ‘Triple Three Triple One’

Source: US State of New York

overnor Kathy Hochul today announced the launch of “Triple Three Triple One” – a new real-time emergency and weather alert system – as part of the State’s Hurricane Preparedness Week recognition efforts. Managed by the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES), this text option allows New Yorkers to text their county of residence to 3-3-3-1-1-1 to begin receiving real time emergency and weather alerts and updates directly to their phones. In New York City, text the name of your borough with no spaces. The system is not case sensitive. If you want all of metro New York, text NewYorkCity. Additionally, State-initiated hurricane preparedness activities include initiating the distribution of $15 million in flood-related equipment to counties and conducting specialized training for State emergency operations personnel.

“My highest priority is the safety of New Yorkers, especially during times of severe and unpredictable emergency events,” Governor Hochul said. “To best prepare for inclement weather – especially as hurricane season approaches – I am encouraging all New Yorkers to sign up for alerts so they can remain safe and vigilant when high-impact events occur.”

It’s easy to get started and free to sign up. New Yorkers can simply text the name of the county they’d like to receive alerts for to 3-3-3-1-1-1. Once the text message is sent, users will automatically be enrolled and begin receiving emergency and weather alerts when they occur in their selected county. In New York City, text the name of your borough with no spaces. For example, StatenIsland. For the entire New York City metro area, text NewYorkCity. The system is not case sensitive. Users can also register to receive alerts for multiple counties by texting additional county names, one at a time. This will allow residents to stay up to date on alerts in areas where their loved ones may live. It is free to sign up for Triple Three Triple One and the service is available on all cellular carriers. Standard text messaging and data rates may apply.

New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said, “As Hurricane Season approaches, the launch of Triple Three Triple One alerting gives New Yorkers access to another tool that they can use to help keep themselves and their loved ones prepared for and safe during severe weather. And, it’s an additional way that we can assist our local emergency management partners. I encourage everyone to take a moment right now and text their county name to Triple Three Triple One.”

In addition to launching the Triple Three Triple One text alerts, New York State recently signed Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with 51 counties to provide them with $15 million of flood-related equipment and supplies. The equipment, being procured by DHSES includes pumps, generators, chain saws, and flood barrier technology.

Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30. On April 3, Colorado State University released its preseason hurricane forecast, calling for above average activity in the tropical Atlantic with 17 named storms, nine hurricanes, and four major hurricanes predicted. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is expected to release the 2025 Hurricane Outlook later in May.

In December 2023, Governor Hochul announced the creation of New York’s State Weather Risk Communication Center (SWRCC) at the State University of New York at Albany. The Center is a first-of-its kind operational collaboration between university researchers and state emergency managers and serves as a clearinghouse for critical weather information. It also works to develop tools to help emergency managers make informed decisions to help protect communities and examines how communicating extreme weather risks to the public can be improved.

New York State Weather Risk Communication Center Director Dr. Nick Bassill said, “Being prepared is crucial when it comes to extreme weather. New York is no stranger to the impacts hurricanes can have on our communities, so have a plan made ahead of time to ensure the safety of yourself and your loved ones in the event of an emergency. Follow trusted news sources such as the National Weather Service and state and local government alerts, so you can respond accordingly when severe weather strikes.”

The National Weather Service said, “Everyone should learn their risk by considering the threats from tropical storms. Threats include storm surge, flooding from heavy rain, strong winds, tornadoes and rip currents. All of these threats can occur far from the center of a storm so pay attention to the latest forecasts and be alert for warnings.”

State agencies undertake a number of activities to prepare for hurricane season including:

The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services operates the State Office of Emergency Management (OEM). OEM routinely assists local governments, voluntary organizations, and private industry through a variety of emergency management programs including hazard identification, loss prevention, planning, training, operational response to emergencies, technical support, and disaster recovery assistance.

In April, OEM launched a weeklong State Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Training and Simulation initiative created to introduce new staff to the major functions of the EOC. This initiative included EOC simulations, including one simulation focused on responding to a forecasted tropical storm. This training builds understanding across State OEM personnel so that during a real activation teams are prepared to respond accordingly.

DHSES also conducts the Citizen Preparedness Corps training program, along with the New York National Guard and the American Red Cross. The course provides an introduction to responding to a natural or human-caused disaster. Participants are advised on how to properly develop family emergency plans and stock up on emergency supplies. To date, more than 400,000 people have been trained.

The Department of Public Service reports New York’s utilities have approximately 5,500 workers available statewide to engage in damage assessment, response, repair and restoration efforts across New York State in the event of a hurricane or a major storm. Utilities maintain agreements with external contractors who may be able to assist in restoration efforts. Department of Public Service staff track utilities’ work throughout all events and work to ensure appropriate staffing for regions that experience the greatest impact.

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s hurricane preparedness efforts take place year-round. New and renewed assets are designed to meet or exceed the agency’s climate resilience guidelines, which consider the potential risks of climate change out to 2100. Across the agency’s airports, a host of flood protection measures have been implemented, including flood walls, flood rated doors, and deployable shields. At LaGuardia Airport, electrical substations, pumps, and newly constructed terminals have been elevated or protected to reduce the risk of hurricane flooding, even as sea levels rise. Other flood mitigation projects include installation of flexible floodproof barriers at the Holland Tunnel portals and a water intrusion protection system to seal off the iconic World Trade Center site from coastal storm surge. The Port Authority’s Office of Emergency Management tracks storm development, projecting eventual impacts on the New York and New Jersey region, and communicating with each Port Authority facility, where staff use customized information to respond to rapidly changing conditions.

For more information, visit the Hurricane Safety page on the DHSES website.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Assessing the U.S. Climate in April 2025
Source: US National Oceanographic Data Center

Key Points:
- A slow-moving storm system in early April brought widespread flooding and over 150 tornadoes to the South and Midwest, resulting in numerous injuries and at least 24 fatalities.
- April temperatures were particularly warm across the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic, with near-record warmth observed in the Carolinas and neighboring states.
- Alaska had its second-wettest April on record and its fourth-warmest year to date.
- Heavy rain in Puerto Rico in late April triggered flash flooding and landslides.
Map of the U.S. selected significant climate anomalies and events in April 2025.

Other Highlights:

Temperature

April U.S. Mean Temperature Departures from Average Map

The average temperature for the contiguous U.S. (CONUS) in April was 53.6°F, which is 2.6°F above the long-term average and ranks in the warmest third of the 131-year record. April temperatures were above average across much of the Lower 48, with much-above-average warmth observed across the South and Atlantic coastal regions. North Carolina and Virginia observed their second-warmest average April temperatures on record, with South Carolina and Georgia recording their third- and fourth-warmest (tied), respectively. For the year to date, the CONUS average temperature was 41.1°F, 2.0°F above average, ranking in the warmest third of the record for this January–April period.

The Alaska statewide April temperature was 27.5°F, 4.2°F above the long-term average, ranking in the warmest third of the 101-year period of record. While temperatures were near average across much of western Alaska in April, above-average warmth dominated the eastern part of the state. Alaska’s January–April average temperature was 17.8°F, 7.5°F above the long-term average, ranking as the fourth warmest on record, with much of the state experiencing much-above-average temperatures during this period.

Hawai’i had an average temperature of 65.9°F in April, 1.1°F above the 1991–2020 average and ranking in the warmest third of the 35-year record. Hawai’i had its second-warmest (tied) January–April average temperature of 64.8°F, 1.1°F above the 1991–2020 average for this period.

Precipitation

April 2025 U.S. Total Precipitation Percentiles

April precipitation for the CONUS was 2.82 inches, 0.30 inch above average, ranking in the upper third of the historical record. Drier-than-average conditions were observed from the West to the central Rockies, and along parts of the Gulf and Atlantic coastal regions. Conversely, above-average precipitation fell across a broad area stretching from the southern Plains through the middle Mississippi Valley into the Ohio Valley and lower Great Lakes, as well as in portions of the northern Plains, upper Mississippi Valley and far Northeast. Kentucky recorded its second-highest average rainfall for the month of April, while Oklahoma and Missouri saw their third- and fourth-wettest Aprils, respectively. The January–April precipitation total for the CONUS was 8.77 inches, 0.70 inch below average, ranking in the driest third of the record for this period.

Alaska’s average precipitation in April ranked as the second wettest in the 101-year record, with particularly wet conditions along the Gulf of Alaska coast and the northern Southeast region. Near-record-high snowfall was observed at the Alyeska (36.6 inches) and Denali National Park (26.5 inches) stations—these totals were the second-highest on record for April. The January–April precipitation total for Alaska was 10.97 inches, 1.80 inches above average, ranking in the wettest third on record for the period

Precipitation averaged across Hawai’i in April totaled 4.11 inches, 0.90 inch below average, ranking in the middle third of the 1991–2025 record. Drier-than-average conditions were mostly observed on the eastern portions of Moloka’i, Maui and the Big Island, while most other areas experienced above-average rainfall. Precipitation across Hawai’i for January–April was 15.65 inches, 6.42 inches below average, ranking in the driest third of the 1991–2025 record.

Drought

According to the April 29 U.S. Drought Monitor report, approximately 37.0% of the contiguous U.S. was in drought, down about 6.4% from the beginning of the month. Drought conditions expanded or intensified across parts of the Southwest, southern Rockies, northern High Plains, Florida and Hawai’i. Meanwhile, drought contracted or was reduced in intensity across much of the central U.S., parts of southern Appalachia and the Great Lakes region.

Monthly Outlook

Much of the country is expected to be warmer than average in May, from the Rockies eastward to the Atlantic and southward to the Gulf Coast. Above-average precipitation is favored in parts of the West and Rockies, and is likely across the southern Plains, while drier-than-average conditions are expected in the upper Mississippi Valley and Great Lakes region.

Drought conditions in May are likely to persist across the Southwest and northern Plains, with some improvement in the central Great Basin. Portions of the southern and central Plains should see some drought improvement and areas of removal, but the upper Mississippi Valley can expect some areas of drought development. Drought will likely persist and expand across the Carolinas and western Virginia; conditions in some areas further northeast are expected to improve.

Visit the Climate Prediction Center’s Official 30-Day Forecasts and U.S. Monthly Drought Outlook website for more details.

Significant wildland fire potential for May is above normal for parts of the Southwest and upper Mississippi Valley, and from the Mid-Atlantic coastal regions down to Florida. For additional information on wildland fire potential, visit the National Interagency Fire Center’s One-Month Wildland Fire Outlook.

For more detailed climate information, check out our comprehensive April 2025 U.S. Climate Report scheduled for release on May 12, 2025. For additional information on the statistics provided here, visit the Climate at a Glance and National Maps webpages.

MIL OSI USA News –
May 9, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Philadelphia County Man Sentenced To 137 Months For Drug Trafficking And Firearm Possession In Furtherance Of Drug Trafficking

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

HARRISBURG- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Leon Weathersbe, age 38, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on May 7, 2025 to 137 months’ imprisonment by United States District Judge Keli M. Neary for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.

According to Acting United States Attorney John Gurganus and court documents, on April 12, 2022, Pennsylvania State Police troopers conducted a traffic stop on Weathersbe’s vehicle. During the stop, troopers recovered $1600 from Weathersbe’s person. Weathersbe provided consent to search the vehicle; however, he fled the stop on foot as troopers began to search the vehicle. Weathersbe was not apprehended at the time. Troopers continued their search of Weathersbe’s vehicle and recovered distribution quantities of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and marijuana, as well as a loaded handgun under the driver’s seat.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

The case was investigated by the Pennsylvania State Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney David C. Williams prosecuted the case.

MIL Security OSI –

May 9, 2025
MIL-OSI: HomeTrust Bank Further Recognized for Strong Financial Performance and as a Most Loved Workplace

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

ASHEVILLE, N.C., May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HomeTrust Bancshares, Inc. (NYSE: HTB) (“Company”), the holding company of HomeTrust Bank (“HomeTrust” or the “Bank”), announced today that the Bank has been named one of Forbes’ America’s Best Banks for 2025 and recognized as a Top 50 Community Bank in the 2024 S&P Global Market Intelligence annual rankings. These awards are based on key metrics assessing the overall financial performance and strength of financial institutions. This is the second consecutive year that HomeTrust has been recognized in each of these publications.

The Company was also recently included in the coveted 2025 KBW Bank Honor Roll. Only 5% of eligible banks were named to this elite group of 16 financial institutions based on their best-in-class earnings growth over the past ten years.

In addition, HomeTrust has been re-certified as a Most Loved Workplace® by Best Practice Institute (BPI) and received recognition over the past two years as a Best Place to Work by Best Companies Group in all five states they serve.

“Receiving these prestigious rankings is a continued testament to how we manage the Bank and the engagement and excitement of our HTB teammates,” said C. Hunter Westbrook, President & Chief Executive Officer. “HomeTrust set a goal to be a consistently high-performing regional community bank that is a regionally and nationally recognized ‘Best Place to Work.’ This isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. We’ll continue to create a higher standard by being relentless about improvement, embodying our fundamentals, and fostering a workplace and culture where our team members are engaged and belong.”

www.htb.com

About HomeTrust Bancshares, Inc.

HomeTrust Bancshares, Inc. is the holding company for the Bank. As of March 31, 2025, the Company had assets of $4.6 billion. The Bank, founded in 1926, is a North Carolina state chartered, community-focused financial institution committed to providing value added relationship banking with over 30 locations as well as online/mobile channels. Locations include: North Carolina (the Asheville metropolitan area, the “Piedmont” region, Charlotte and Raleigh/Cary), South Carolina (Greenville and Charleston), East Tennessee (Kingsport/Johnson City, Knoxville and Morristown), Southwest Virginia (the Roanoke Valley) and Georgia (Greater Atlanta).

HomeTrust Bank’s recent Q1 2025 earnings release is available here: HomeTrust Bancshares, Inc. Announces Financial Results for the First Quarter of the Year Ending December 31, 2025 and Declaration of a Quarterly Dividend | HomeTrust Bancshares, Inc.

Forward-Looking Statements
This press release includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are not statements of historical fact, but instead are based on certain assumptions including statements with respect to the Company’s beliefs, plans, objectives, goals, expectations, assumptions and statements about future economic performance and projections of financial items. These forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results anticipated or implied by forward-looking statements. The factors that could result in material differentiation include, but are not limited to, natural disasters, including the effects of Hurricane Helene; expected revenues, cost savings, synergies and other benefits from merger and acquisition activities might not be realized to the extent anticipated, within the anticipated time frames, or at all, costs or difficulties relating to integration matters, including but not limited to customer and employee retention, might be greater than expected, and goodwill impairment charges might be incurred; increased competitive pressures among financial services companies; changes in the interest rate environment; changes in general economic conditions, both nationally and in our market areas; legislative and regulatory changes; and the effects of inflation, a potential recession, and other factors described in the Company’s latest Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other documents filed with or furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission – which are available on the Company’s website at www.htb.com and on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Any of the forward-looking statements that the Company makes in this press release or in the documents the Company files with or furnishes to the SEC are based upon management’s beliefs and assumptions at the time they are made and may turn out to be wrong because of inaccurate assumptions, the factors described above or other factors that management cannot foresee. The Company does not undertake, and specifically disclaims any obligation, to revise any forward-looking statements to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events or circumstances after the date of such statements.

The MIL Network –

May 9, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Alberta has long accused Ottawa of trying to destroy its oil industry. That’s a dangerous myth

Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Ian Urquhart, Professor Emeritus, Political Science, University of Alberta

“Alberta is a place soaked in self-deception.” Those words began Alberta-based journalist Mark Lisac’s 2004 book aimed at shattering the myths that have unhelpfully animated too much of Alberta’s politics over the past few decades.

Current and former Alberta politicians are once again embracing and treating separatist grievances seriously. That means it’s time once again to highlight and challenge political misconceptions that have the potential to destroy Canada.

Oil is the root of one such myth. The misconception? That Ottawa perenially opposes the oil and gas sector and is determined to stop its continued growth. The National Energy Program (1980), the Northern Gateway pipeline project (2016), the Energy East Pipeline (2017) and the proposed greenhouse gas pollution cap allegedly prove Ottawa’s hostility.

Notably missing from these grievances is the Keystone XL pipeline and the Trans Mountain Expansion Project. Ottawa supported these projects aimed at transporting Alberta oilsands crude to foreign markets. The federal government even purchased the Trans Mountain project from Kinder Morgan in 2018 — not to kill it, but to build it.

Read more:
Justin Trudeau’s risky gamble on the Trans Mountain pipeline

As for Keystone XL, Alberta Premier Jason Kenney thanked Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for supporting the project. This doesn’t fit the separatist narrative, so it’s largely ignored.

Oilsands booster

No one should dispute the National Energy Program’s devastating impact on Alberta’s conventional oil and gas sector 40 years ago. But the oilsands, not conventional oil, propelled Canada to its position as the world’s fourth largest oil producer.

Has Ottawa facilitated or obstructed the spectacular post-1990 growth of oilsands production?

The record shows that, since the mid-1970s, Ottawa has facilitated and supported the oilsands sector. The federal government helped keep the Syncrude project alive in 1975 when it took a 15 per cent interest in Canada’s second oilsands operation.

Ironically, Ottawa’s enthusiasm for more, not less, petroleum from the oilsands also appeared in 1980 via the National Energy Program (NEP), the devil in Alberta’s conservative catechism. What most accounts of the NEP don’t mention is that Ottawa offered tax benefits to oilsands companies while stripping them from conventional oil producers.

Furthermore, the NEP’s “made-in-Canada” pricing effectively guaranteed Syncrude would receive the world price for its production. At $38 per barrel, Syncrude received more than double what conventional producers received. If the NEP was harsh on conventional oil producers, it helped create a golden future for the oil sands.

In the mid-1990s, Ottawa helped propel the post-1995 oilsands boom. The industry-dominated National Task Force on Oil Sands Strategies sought federal tax concessions to promote oilsands growth. The federal government delivered them in its 1996 budget, despite Prime Minister Jean Chretien’s general concern with cutting the deficit.

Again, these measures clearly contradict the myth of federal opposition to the oil industry.

Generous emissions caps

Ottawa’s policy favouritism towards the oilsands didn’t end there. It has consistently animated the federal government’s treatment of the oilsands in its climate change policies.

The federal Climate Change Plan for Canada (2002) treated oil and gas leniently. Its measures for large industrial emitters bore a striking resemblance to the climate change policy preferences of the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers. Suncor and Syncrude, the two leading oilsands producers, estimated these federal proposals would add a pittance, between 20 and 30 cents, to their per barrel production costs.

Justin Trudeau’s response to Alberta’s 2015 oilsands emissions cap also underlined Ottawa’s favouritism, not hostility, to the dominant player in Canada’s oil patch.

Rachel Notley’s NDP government set this cap at 100 million tonnes of GHG per year, plus another 10 million tonnes allowed to new upgrading and co-generation facilities. This cap was a whopping 39 million tonnes or 55 per cent higher than what the oilsands emitted in 2014.

This generous cap contributed to a tremendous increase in oilsands production. Healthy profits became record profits in 2022. Ottawa embraced Alberta’s largesse, incorporating the province’s cap into its post-2015 climate policies.

Furthermore, Ottawa increased its leniency towards the oilsands by exempting new in-situ (non-mining) oilsands projects in Alberta from the federal Impact Assessment Act. This exemption applies until Alberta’s emissions cap is reached. Canada’s latest National Inventory Report on greenhouse gas emissions reported record oilsands GHG emissions of 89 million tonnes in 2023, still 11 million tonnes shy of the 100 million tonne threshold.

Weaponizing myths

Finally, we have today’s proposed national cap on greenhouse gas emissions. Alberta is apoplectic about the cap. But whether or not it’s intentional, Premier Danielle Smith’s outrage feeds into secessionist sentiment by seemingly misrepresenting the cap’s impact on oil and gas production.

Smith and her environment minister use the work of the Parliamentary Budgetary Officer (PBO) to nurture their “Ottawa hates oil” narrative. They claim the officer’s analysis of the cap’s economic impact showed it “will cut oil and gas production by five per cent, or more than 245,000 barrels per day.”

This is simply not true.

In fact, the PBO concluded that, with the cap, oilsands production “is projected to remain well above current levels” — 15 per cent higher than in 2022. The proposed federal emissions cap, like the Alberta NDP’s cap of a decade ago, is higher than current oilsands emissions levels. The PBO concluded the proposed ceiling for oilsands emissions would be six per cent higher than 2022 emissions.

Ottawa’s proposed cap, in fact, continues its decades-long support of the oilsands.

Myths are central to our being. When I tell my grandsons about the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, I hope to inspire curiosity, imagination and interest in their grandmother’s Irish heritage.

But in politics, fanciful stories can be dangerous. Some weaponize myths, using the fictions at their core to encourage followers to let falsehoods rule their behaviour. That seems to be playing out yet again in Alberta. We must demand better from the political class.

Ian Urquhart 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. Alberta has long accused Ottawa of trying to destroy its oil industry. That’s a dangerous myth – https://theconversation.com/alberta-has-long-accused-ottawa-of-trying-to-destroy-its-oil-industry-thats-a-dangerous-myth-255908

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

May 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: After 170 Years, Thoreau’s River Observations Inform Our Changing Climate

Source: US State of Connecticut

Like an expertly choreographed dance, the sequence and timing of natural events through a season, called phenology, give us clues about how the climate is changing.

For example, a warmer spring may lead to plants leafing and flowering early, potentially disrupting life cycles of the birds and insects who may miss this crucial window if it happens before they migrate. Climate change is throwing such timing out of balance, and unless it directly impacts humans, we may not notice.

To study New England’s regional phenology through a historical lens, UConn Department of Earth Sciences Professor Robert Thorson is looking into 10 years’ worth of Henry David Thoreau’s meticulous, systematic records of river behavior from the 1850s to glean insights into climate change. His findings are published in The Concord Saunterer.

A season is much more than a block of a few months on the calendar; it is a category of phenomena that varies depending on who you ask, says Thorson. For instance, a season differs if you ask a skier, a fisherman, or a student. To understand something as complex as climate change on a personal level requires helping them see that their seasons are being changed and time-shifted, no matter how they define them. This requires a well-established baseline with a clear definition for each season. Thoreau’s “Journal” provides exactly this.

Replica of Thoreau’s boat, Musketaquid, on the bank of the Sudbury River, Lincoln, MA. (Photo courtesy of Juliet Wheeler)

“I don’t pick Thoreau for his philosophy, he’s just a damn good observer,” says Thorson. “He is meticulous, he is daily, he is yearly, and he is systematically rigorous about roaming around 50 square miles and recording it day after day after day after day.”

Thoreau created an impressive data set from 1850 through 1860, including the 6,000 entries Thorson has cataloged so far by reading line-by-line, indexing, and creating a spreadsheet. Thoreau recorded examples of phenology along the river – for instance, when the first ice occurred, when the river was completely frozen, when the first snow fell, and when the breakup of ice occurred.

“From these observations, we can establish the timings of discrete phenomena from the mid-19th century using simple statistics,” says Thorson. “The next step is to compare those timings with the modern era using publicly available data; for example, minimum stream discharges from the U.S. Geological Survey.”

Rather than seeing the year on a calendar, Thorson categorized how Thoreau saw not four, but ten discrete seasons whose exact dates were fluid and based on the physical conditions he observed rather than celestial happenings or arbitrary dates. These seasons included breakup, inland sea, aquatic spring, riparian spring, summer, drought, aquatic autumn, riparian autumn, freeze up, and winter white. Thorson details the timings and characteristics of Thoreau’s river seasons using hundreds of direct, dated, and descriptive quotes. Thorson notes that all of Thoreau’s seasons still exist today, though they have shifted in timing and intensity due to climate change.

Thorson’s idea is to create a then-and-now comparison and to incorporate statistical analysis between Thoreau’s and modern data sets to understand patterns and trends in the complicated phenomena.

“Even just answering the question of how much earlier ice breakup is occurring would take nothing more than a than simple statistical analysis. This is eminently translatable to the public because many residents of Thoreau country have experienced river breakup in the past,” says Thorson. “They may have had their dock ripped out by river ice, they may have gone swimming on a certain day, but not others. People could relate to this stuff, and that’s essentially what I’m trying to do.”

Though Thoreau is remembered primarily for his writings while living on Walden Pond, Thorson points out that he actually spent most of his time on three local rivers, whether walking trails, boating, swimming, or skating.

“This is a guy who skated 60 miles in one day — upriver to the falls at Framingham on the Sudbury River and then he turned around and skated past Concord all the way down to just north of Lowell in Billerica. Then he turned around and skated back home again. On another winter, he measured ice floes two feet thick. Imagine those conditions today. Now the river hardly freezes at all.”

Researching this project, Thorson was delighted by the sensory detail of Thoreau’s descriptions. For example, on one August day, he felt the baking “dog-day” heat of the air, the silence of laminar streamflow, the “unctuous” iridescent sheen on sluggish water, and the fetid smell of riverbank muck draped by dead lily pads, says Thorson.

“But within a day, he can feel fall coming, and all of a sudden, the first rains or the cooling air start to bring change. You get a completely different river from the preceding one of drought, or the one with icebergs stampeding down the river, tearing out bridges. All of this is phenology. All can be timed to a specific day.”

With these phenological details, Thorson has laid the groundwork for creating a record of climate change. Thorson was initially inspired by Thoreau’s phenology when writing his book “The Boatman,” in which he was only able to sketch Thoreau’s river seasons briefly. With this new article, Thorson pulls it all together to identify the specific seasonal thresholds and present the information in Thoreau’s words to show readers how he saw the year. Thorson hopes the paper inspires collaboration with statisticians to help in the next step of analysis.

“Probably the first thing I’ll do is explore where the modern records are. I also wanted to pull the historic record together and tighten portions into a robust hypothesis. Thoreau’s work is New England’s best record of broad environmental conditions for the mid-19th century. It’s astonishing. It’s two million words,” says Thorson.

Noting the contrasts between the river phenology Thoreau so thoughtfully detailed and what we can observe today, Thorson says he hopes this work resonates with readers.

“Breakup is the most instantaneous and dramatic point in the entire year. We don’t think much about it right now, because we don’t have a lot of river ice, but it used to be two feet thick on the river, and that says something sad about how dramatic the climate change has been. You can read dry numerical facts about how New England’s nighttime average temperatures have risen in the 100 years. But when you make climate change dramatic, as with a bridge being torn apart by a spring freshet, that’s a phenomenon associated with emotion. People pay more attention. The personal narrative of a river system year after year after year — that’s what Thoreau gave us.”

MIL OSI USA News –

May 9, 2025

MIL-OSI Europe: Minutes – Wednesday, 7 May 2025 – Strasbourg – Final edition

Source: European Parliament

PV-10-2025-05-07

iPlPv_Sit

Minutes

Wednesday, 7 May 2025 – Strasbourg

Abbreviations and symbols

+	adopted
–	rejected
↓	lapsed
W	withdrawn
RCV	roll-call votes
EV	electronic vote
SEC	secret ballot
split	split vote
sep	separate vote
am	amendment
CA	compromise amendment
CP	corresponding part
D	deleting amendment
=	identical amendments
§	paragraph

IN THE CHAIR: Martin HOJSÍK
Vice-President

1. Opening of the sitting

The sitting opened at 09:00.

2. Negotiations ahead of Parliament’s first reading (Rule 72) (action taken)

The decisions of the LIBE and PECH committees and (jointly) the SEDE and ITRE committees to enter into interinstitutional negotiations had been announced on 5 May 2025 (minutes of 5.5.2025, item 12).

Since no requests for vote had been made pursuant to Rule 72(2), the committees responsible had been able to begin negotiations after the expiry of the deadline set.

3. EU support for a just, sustainable and comprehensive peace in Ukraine (debate)

Council and Commission statements: EU support for a just, sustainable and comprehensive peace in Ukraine (2025/2685(RSP))

Adam Szłapka (President-in-Office of the Council) and Ursula von der Leyen (President of the Commission) made the statements.

The following spoke: Michael Gahler, on behalf of the PPE Group, Yannis Maniatis, on behalf of the S&D Group, Kinga Gál, on behalf of the PfE Group, Adam Bielan, on behalf of the ECR Group, Petras Auštrevičius, on behalf of the Renew Group, Terry Reintke, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Özlem Demirel, on behalf of The Left Group, Hans Neuhoff, on behalf of the ESN Group, Sandra Kalniete, Thijs Reuten, Harald Vilimsky, who also declined to take a blue-card question from Moritz Körner, Alberico Gambino, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, Virginijus Sinkevičius, Marc Botenga, who also answered a blue-card question from Sebastian Tynkkynen, Petar Volgin, Fidias Panayiotou, who also answered a blue-card question from Moritz Körner, Rasa Juknevičienė, Brando Benifei, Tom Vandendriessche, Mirosława Nykiel and Heléne Fritzon.

IN THE CHAIR: Christel SCHALDEMOSE
Vice-President

The following spoke: Beata Szydło, Nathalie Loiseau, Mika Aaltola, Francisco Assis, Hannah Neumann, Paulius Saudargas, Marcos Ros Sempere, Roberto Vannacci, Victor Negrescu, Aurelijus Veryga, Hilde Vautmans, Matej Tonin, Danilo Della Valle, Francisco José Millán Mon, Tonino Picula, Pierre-Romain Thionnet, Salvatore De Meo, Raphaël Glucksmann, Merja Kyllönen, Ingeborg Ter Laak, Elena Yoncheva, Seán Kelly, who also answered a blue-card question from Petras Gražulis, Joanna Scheuring-Wielgus, Tamás Deutsch, Rihards Kols, Helmut Brandstätter, Adrián Vázquez Lázara, Vilija Blinkevičiūtė, Krzysztof Hetman, Jonas Sjöstedt, Danuše Nerudová, Tobias Cremer, Tomasz Buczek, Małgorzata Gosiewska, Dan Barna, Wouter Beke, Ignazio Roberto Marino, Irene Montero and Ana Miguel Pedro.

The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Michał Szczerba, Juan Fernando López Aguilar, Viktória Ferenc, Arkadiusz Mularczyk, Dainius Žalimas, Jaume Asens Llodrà, Siegbert Frank Droese, Lukas Sieper, Maria Grapini, Damian Boeselager and Petras Gražulis.

The following spoke: Valdis Dombrovskis (Member of the Commission) and Adam Szłapka.

The debate closed.

(The sitting was suspended at 11:19.)

IN THE CHAIR: Roberta METSOLA
President

4. Resumption of the sitting

The sitting resumed at 11:35.

5. Commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe

The President made a statement to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe.

António Costa (President of the European Council), Robert Chot (Member of the Belgian Royal National Federation of War Volunteers), Janusz Komorowski (President of the Polish Association of Home Army Soldiers) and Janusz Maksymowicz (Vice-President of the Warsaw Uprising Insurgents Association), addressed the House.

The House stood for the European anthem performed by soprano Francesca Sorteni, accompanied by Thomas Gautier and Claire Rigaux on violin, Marie Viard on cello and Emma Errara on viola.

(The sitting was suspended for a few moments.)

6. Resumption of the sitting

The sitting resumed at 12:19.

⁂

The following spoke: Valérie Hayer (the President noted her remarks. She pointed out that serving Europe in the House of democracy was an honourable commitment and called for everyone to respect what this represented).

7. Welcome

On behalf of Parliament, the President welcomed Dr Denis Mukwege, winner of the 2014 Sakharov Prize and 2018 Nobel Peace Prize, who had taken his seat in the distinguished visitors’ gallery.

8. Voting time

For detailed results of the votes, see also ‘Results of votes’ and ‘Results of roll-call votes’.

8.1. Amending ERDF, Cohesion Fund and Just Transition Fund as regards specific measures to address strategic challenges in the context of the mid-term review ***I (vote)

Amending ERDF, Cohesion Fund and Just Transition Fund as regards specific measures to address strategic challenges in the context of the mid-term review – (COM(2025)0123 – C10-0063/2025 – 2025/0084(COD))

REQUEST FOR AN URGENT DECISION by the REGI Committee (Rule 170(5))

Approved

Vote: at a later part-session.

Detailed voting results

8.2. European Social Fund (ESF+): specific measures to address strategic challenges ***I (vote)

European Social Fund (ESF+): specific measures to address strategic challenges – (COM(2025)0164 – C10-0064/2025 – 2025/0085(COD))

REQUEST FOR AN URGENT DECISION by the EMPL Committee (Rule 170(5))

Approved

Vote: at a later part-session.

Detailed voting results

8.3. Discharge 2023: EU general budget – Commission, executive agencies and European Development Funds (vote)

Report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2023, Section III – Commission, executive agencies and the ninth, tenth and eleventh European Development Funds [COM(2024)0272 – C10-0067/2024 – 2024/2019(DEC)] – Committee on Budgetary Control. Rapporteur: Niclas Herbst (A10-0074/2025)

(Majority of the votes cast)

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS – Commission and executive agencies

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0077)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS – European Development Funds – EDF (9th, 10th and 11th)

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0077)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0077)

Detailed voting results

8.4. Discharge 2023: EU general budget – European Parliament (vote)

Report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2023, Section I – European Parliament [COM(2024)0272 – C10-0068/2024 – 2024/2020(DEC)] – Committee on Budgetary Control. Rapporteur: Monika Hohlmeier (A10-0062/2025)

(Majority of the votes cast)

PROPOSAL FOR A DECISION

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0078)

Detailed voting results

8.5. Discharge 2023: EU general budget – European Council and Council (vote)

Report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2023, Section II – European Council and Council [COM(2024)0272 – C10-0069/2024 – 2024/2021(DEC)] – Committee on Budgetary Control. Rapporteur: Joachim Stanisław Brudziński (A10-0052/2025)

PROPOSAL FOR A DECISION

Approved (P10_TA(2025)0079)

Discharge postponed (see Annex V, Article 5(1)(b) to the Rules of Procedure)

MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0079)

Detailed voting results

8.6. Discharge 2023: EU general budget – Court of Justice of the European Union (vote)

Report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2023, Section IV – Court of Justice [COM(2024)0272 – C10-0070/2024 – 2024/2022(DEC)] – Committee on Budgetary Control. Rapporteur: Cristian Terheş (A10-0050/2025)

(Majority of the votes cast)

PROPOSAL FOR A DECISION

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0080)

MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0080)

Detailed voting results

8.7. Discharge 2023: EU general budget – Court of Auditors (vote)

Report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2023, Section V – Court of Auditors [COM(2024)0272 – C10-0071/2024 – 2024/2023(DEC)] – Committee on Budgetary Control. Rapporteur: Dick Erixon (A10-0047/2025)

(Majority of the votes cast)

PROPOSAL FOR A DECISION

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0081)

MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0081)

Detailed voting results

8.8. Discharge 2023: EU general budget – European Economic and Social Committee (vote)

Report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2023, Section VI – European Economic and Social Committee [COM(2024)0272 – C10-0073/2024 – 2024/2025(DEC)] – Committee on Budgetary Control. Rapporteur: Joachim Stanisław Brudziński (A10-0054/2025)

(Majority of the votes cast)

PROPOSAL FOR A DECISION

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0082)

MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0082)

Detailed voting results

8.9. Discharge 2023: EU general budget – Committee of the Regions (vote)

Report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2023, Section VII – Committee of the Regions [COM(2024)0272 – C10-0074/2024 – 2024/2026(DEC)] – Committee on Budgetary Control. Rapporteur: Joachim Stanisław Brudziński (A10-0046/2025)

(Majority of the votes cast)

PROPOSAL FOR A DECISION

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0083)

MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0083)

Detailed voting results

8.10. Discharge 2023: EU general budget – European Ombudsman (vote)

Report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2023, Section VIII – European Ombudsman [COM(2024)0272 – C10-0075/2024 – 2024/2027(DEC)] – Committee on Budgetary Control. Rapporteur: Joachim Stanisław Brudziński (A10-0055/2025)

(Majority of the votes cast)

PROPOSAL FOR A DECISION

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0084)

MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0084)

Detailed voting results

8.11. Discharge 2023: EU general budget – European Data Protection Supervisor (vote)

Report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2023, Section IX – European Data Protection Supervisor [COM(2024)0272 – C10-0076/2024 – 2024/2028(DEC)] – Committee on Budgetary Control. Rapporteur: Joachim Stanisław Brudziński (A10-0053/2025)

(Majority of the votes cast)

PROPOSAL FOR A DECISION

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0085)

MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0085)

Detailed voting results

8.12. Discharge 2023: EU general budget – European External Action Service (vote)

Report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2023, Section X – European External Action Service [COM(2024)0272 – C10-0072/2024 – 2024/2024(DEC)] – Committee on Budgetary Control. Rapporteur: Joachim Stanisław Brudziński (A10-0069/2025)

(Majority of the votes cast)

PROPOSAL FOR A DECISION

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0086)

MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0086)

Detailed voting results

8.13. Discharge 2023: European Public Prosecutor’s Office (vote)

Report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Public Prosecutor’s Office for the financial year 2023 [COM(2024)0272 – C10-0077/2024 – 2024/2029(DEC)] – Committee on Budgetary Control. Rapporteur: Tomáš Zdechovský (A10-0051/2025)

(Majority of the votes cast)

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0087)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0087)

Detailed voting results

8.14. Discharge 2023: Agencies (vote)

Report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Union Agencies for the financial year 2023 [COM(2024)0272 – C10-0078/2024 – 2024/2030(DEC)] – Committee on Budgetary Control. Rapporteur: Erik Marquardt (A10-0065/2025)

(Majority of the votes cast)

European Union Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators (ACER)

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0088)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

Agency for Support for BEREC

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0088)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

Translation Centre for the Bodies of the European Union (CdT)

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0088)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (Cedefop)

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0088)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Training (CEPOL)

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0088)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA)

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0088)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

European Banking Authority (EBA)

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0088)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0088)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

European Chemicals Agency (ECHA)

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0088)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

European Environment Agency (EEA)

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0088)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

European Fisheries Control Agency (EFCA)

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0088)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

European Food Safety Authority (EFSA)

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0088)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE)

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0088)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA)

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0088)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT)

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0088)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

European Labour Authority (ELA)

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0088)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

European Medicines Agency (EMA)

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0088)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (now European Union Drugs Agency)

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0088)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA)

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0088)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA)

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0088)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

European Union Agency for Railways (ERA)

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0088)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

Euratom Supply Agency (ESA)

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0088)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA)

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0088)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

European Training Foundation (ETF)

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0088)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

European Union Agency for Asylum (EUAA)

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0088)

Discharge and closure of the accounts was postponed (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

European Union Agency for the Operational Management of Large-Scale IT Systems in the Area of Freedom, Security and Justice (eu-LISA)

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0088)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA)

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0088)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions (Eurofound)

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0088)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

European Union Agency for Criminal Justice Cooperation (Eurojust)

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0088)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation (Europol)

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0088)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

European Union Agency for the Space Programme (EUSPA)

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0088)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA)

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0088)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex)

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0088)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0088)

Detailed voting results

8.15. Discharge 2023: Joint Undertakings (vote)

Report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the EU joint undertakings for the financial year 2023 [COM(2024)0272 – C10-0079/2024 – 2024/2031(DEC)] – Committee on Budgetary Control. Rapporteur: Michal Wiezik (A10-0056/2025)

(Majority of the votes cast)

Clean Aviation Joint Undertaking

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0089)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0089)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

Clean Hydrogen Joint Undertaking

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0089)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

Europe’s Rail Joint Undertaking

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0089)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

European High Performance Computing Joint Undertaking

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0089)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

European Joint Undertaking for ITER and the Development of Fusion Energy

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0089)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

Global Health EDCTP3 Joint Undertaking

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0089)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

Innovative Health Initiative Joint Undertaking

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0089)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

Chips Joint Undertaking (before 21.9.2023: Key Digital Technologies Joint Undertaking)

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0089)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

Single European Sky ATM Research 3 Joint Undertaking

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0089)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

Smart Networks and Services Joint Undertaking

PROPOSALS FOR DECISIONS

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0089)

Discharge was granted and closure of the accounts approved (see Annex V, Article 5(1) to the Rules of Procedure).

MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0089)

Detailed voting results

8.16. A revamped long-term budget for the Union in a changing world (vote)

Report on a revamped long-term budget for the Union in a changing world [2024/2051(INI)] – Committee on Budgets. Rapporteurs: Siegfried Mureşan and Carla Tavares (A10-0076/2025)

The debate had taken place on 6 May 2025 (minutes of 6.5.2025, item 9).

(Majority of the votes cast)

MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0090)

Detailed voting results

8.17. The European Water Resilience Strategy (vote)

Report on the European Water Resilience Strategy [2024/2104(INI)] – Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety. Rapporteur: Thomas Bajada (A10-0073/2025)

The debate had taken place on 6 May 2025 (minutes of 6.5.2025, item 13).

(Majority of the votes cast)

MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0091)

Detailed voting results

8.18. 2023 and 2024 reports on Türkiye (vote)

2023 and 2024 Commission reports on Türkiye [2025/2023(INI)] – Committee on Foreign Affairs. Rapporteur: Nacho Sánchez Amor (A10-0067/2025)

The debate had taken place on 6 May 2025 (minutes of 6.5.2025, item 14).

(Majority of the votes cast)

MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0092)

The following had spoken:

Nacho Sánchez Amor (rapporteur), to move an oral amendment to add a new paragraph after paragraph 31. Parliament had agreed to put the oral amendment to the vote.

Jordan Bardella, to move an oral amendment to add a new paragraph after paragraph 36. Parliament had not agreed to put the oral amendment to the vote as more than 39 Members had opposed it.

Detailed voting results

8.19. 2023 and 2024 reports on Serbia (vote)

Report on the 2023 and 2024 Commission reports on Serbia [2025/2022(INI)] – Committee on Foreign Affairs. Rapporteur: Tonino Picula (A10-0072/2025)

The debate had taken place on 6 May 2025 (minutes of 6.5.2025, item 16).

(Majority of the votes cast)

MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0093)

The following had spoken:

Tonino Picula (rapporteur), to move an oral amendment to paragraph 23. Parliament had agreed to put the oral amendment to the vote.

Detailed voting results

8.20. 2023 and 2024 reports on Kosovo (vote)

Report on the 2023 and 2024 Commission Reports on Kosovo [2025/2019(INI)] – Committee on Foreign Affairs. Rapporteur: Riho Terras (A10-0075/2025)

The debate had taken place on 6 May 2025 (minutes of 6.5.2025, item 17).

(Majority of the votes cast)

MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0094)

Detailed voting results

(The sitting was suspended at 13:39.)

IN THE CHAIR: Javi LÓPEZ
Vice-President

9. Resumption of the sitting

The sitting resumed at 13:44.

10. Approval of the minutes of the previous sitting

The minutes of the previous sitting were approved.

11. Winning the global tech race: boosting innovation and closing funding gaps (topical debate)

The following spoke: Eva Maydell to open the debate proposed by the PPE Group.

The following spoke: Adam Szłapka (President-in-Office of the Council) and Costas Kadis (Member of the Commission).

The following spoke: Pablo Arias Echeverría, on behalf of the PPE Group, Alex Agius Saliba, on behalf of the S&D Group, Julie Rechagneux, on behalf of the PfE Group, Elena Donazzan, on behalf of the ECR Group, Christophe Grudler, on behalf of the Renew Group, Kim Van Sparrentak, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Leila Chaibi, on behalf of The Left Group, Marcin Sypniewski, on behalf of the ESN Group, Tomislav Sokol, Christel Schaldemose, Kosma Złotowski, Svenja Hahn, David Cormand, Milan Mazurek, Massimiliano Salini, Giorgio Gori, Philippe Olivier, Charlie Weimers, Morten Løkkegaard, Eszter Lakos, Laura Ballarín Cereza, Diego Solier, Fernando Navarrete Rojas, Matthias Ecke, Mario Mantovani and Elena Sancho Murillo.

The following spoke: Costas Kadis and Adam Szłapka.

The debate closed.

12. Competition policy – annual report 2024 (debate)

Report on competition policy – annual report 2024 [2024/2079(INI)] – Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs. Rapporteur: Lara Wolters (A10-0071/2025)

Lara Wolters introduced the report.

The following spoke: Teresa Ribera (Executive Vice-President of the Commission).

The following spoke: Andreas Schwab, on behalf of the PPE Group, and Thomas Bajada, on behalf of the S&D Group.

IN THE CHAIR: Antonella SBERNA
Vice-President

The following spoke: Pierre Pimpie, on behalf of the PfE Group, Francesco Ventola, on behalf of the ECR Group, Stéphanie Yon-Courtin, on behalf of the Renew Group, Kira Marie Peter-Hansen, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Martin Schirdewan, on behalf of The Left Group, Rada Laykova, on behalf of the ESN Group, Markus Ferber, René Repasi, Enikő Győri, Marlena Maląg, Marie Toussaint, Marcin Sypniewski, Branislav Ondruš, who also answered a blue-card question from João Oliveira, Georgios Aftias, Nikos Papandreou, Dirk Gotink, Adnan Dibrani, Marco Falcone and Jonás Fernández.

The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Ralf Seekatz, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Petras Gražulis, João Oliveira and Alexander Jungbluth.

The following spoke: Teresa Ribera and Lara Wolters.

The debate closed.

Vote: 8 May 2025.

13. Resilience and the need to improve the interconnection of energy grid infrastructure in the EU: the first lessons from the blackout in the Iberian Peninsula (debate)

Council and Commission statements: Resilience and the need to improve the interconnection of energy grid infrastructure in the EU: the first lessons from the blackout in the Iberian Peninsula (2025/2686(RSP))

Adam Szłapka (President-in-Office of the Council) and Dan Jørgensen (Member of the Commission) made the statements.

The following spoke: Dolors Montserrat, on behalf of the PPE Group, Nicolás González Casares, on behalf of the S&D Group, Jorge Buxadé Villalba, on behalf of the PfE Group, Diego Solier, on behalf of the ECR Group, Anna Stürgkh, on behalf of the Renew Group, Diana Riba i Giner, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Estrella Galán, on behalf of The Left Group, Petr Bystron, on behalf of the ESN Group, Paulo Cunha, who also answered a blue-card question from Petras Gražulis, Francisco Assis, António Tânger Corrêa, who also answered a blue-card question from Bruno Gonçalves, Patryk Jaki, Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez, Jaume Asens Llodrà, Irene Montero, Marc Jongen, Lefteris Nikolaou-Alavanos, François-Xavier Bellamy, who also answered a blue-card question from Nicolás González Casares, Sofie Eriksson, Paolo Borchia, Nora Junco García, Christophe Grudler, Pernando Barrena Arza, Pilar del Castillo Vera, who also declined to take a blue-card question from Nicolás González Casares, and Elena Sancho Murillo.

IN THE CHAIR: Christel SCHALDEMOSE
Vice-President

The following spoke: András Gyürk, Nicolas Bay, Michał Kobosko, João Oliveira, Ana Miguel Pedro, Bruno Gonçalves, Pascale Piera, Daniel Obajtek, Seán Kelly, Bruno Tobback, Georg Mayer, Aleksandar Nikolic and Juan Carlos Girauta Vidal.

The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Davor Ivo Stier, Susana Solís Pérez, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Maria Zacharia and Lukas Sieper.

The following spoke: Dan Jørgensen and Adam Szłapka.

The debate closed.

14. High levels of retail food prices and their consequences for European consumers (debate)

Council and Commission statements: High levels of retail food prices and their consequences for European consumers (2025/2687(RSP))

Adam Szłapka (President-in-Office of the Council) and Costas Kadis (Member of the Commission) made the statements.

The following spoke: Tomislav Sokol, on behalf of the PPE Group, Camilla Laureti, on behalf of the S&D Group, Gilles Pennelle, on behalf of the PfE Group, Stefano Cavedagna, on behalf of the ECR Group, Asger Christensen, on behalf of the Renew Group, David Cormand, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Hanna Gedin, on behalf of The Left Group, Milan Mazurek, on behalf of the ESN Group, Carmen Crespo Díaz, Adnan Dibrani, Tomasz Buczek, Veronika Vrecionová, Christine Singer, Ana Miranda Paz, who also answered a blue-card question from João Oliveira, Konstantinos Arvanitis, who also answered a blue-card question from Rody Tolassy, Kateřina Konečná, Péter Magyar, Biljana Borzan, Marieke Ehlers, Sergio Berlato, Ciaran Mullooly, Marc Botenga, Nikolaos Anadiotis, Krzysztof Hetman, Pierfrancesco Maran, Barbara Bonte, Jessika Van Leeuwen, Laura Ballarín Cereza, Margarita de la Pisa Carrión and France Jamet.

IN THE CHAIR: Esteban GONZÁLEZ PONS
Vice-President

The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Cristina Maestre, Mireia Borrás Pabón, Csaba Dömötör, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Rasmus Andresen, Elena Kountoura, João Oliveira, Lukas Sieper and Maria Zacharia.

The following spoke: Costas Kadis and Adam Szłapka.

The debate closed.

15. Malta’s Golden Passport scheme circumventing EU sanctions against Russia (debate)

Council and Commission statements: Malta’s Golden Passport scheme circumventing EU sanctions against Russia (2025/2688(RSP))

Adam Szłapka (President-in-Office of the Council) and Michael McGrath (Member of the Commission) made the statements.

The following spoke: David Casa, on behalf of the PPE Group, Alex Agius Saliba, on behalf of the S&D Group, Jadwiga Wiśniewska, on behalf of the ECR Group, Raquel García Hermida-Van Der Walle, on behalf of the Renew Group, Saskia Bricmont, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Giuseppe Antoci, on behalf of The Left Group, Luděk Niedermayer, Birgit Sippel, Georgiana Teodorescu, who also declined to take a blue-card question from Raquel García Hermida-Van Der Walle, Irena Joveva, Daniel Freund, Peter Agius, Thomas Bajada, who also answered a blue-card question from Raquel García Hermida-Van Der Walle and did not accept a blue-card question from Daniel Freund, Alice Teodorescu Måwe, Daniel Attard, who also answered a blue-card question from Daniel Freund, and Evelyn Regner.

The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Juan Fernando López Aguilar and Sebastian Tynkkynen.

The following spoke: Alex Agius Saliba (the President cut off the speaker as his remarks did not constitute a point of order).

The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Maria Zacharia.

The following spoke: Michael McGrath and Adam Szłapka.

The debate closed.

16. The role of gas storage for securing gas supplies ahead of the winter season (debate)

Report on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulation (EU) 2017/1938 as regards the role of gas storage for securing gas supplies ahead of the winter season [COM(2025)0099 – C10-0041/2025 – 2025/0051(COD)] – Committee on Industry, Research and Energy. Rapporteur: Borys Budka (A10-0079/2025)

Borys Budka introduced the report.

The following spoke: Dan Jørgensen (Member of the Commission).

The following spoke: Andrea Wechsler, on behalf of the PPE Group, Jens Geier, on behalf of the S&D Group, András Gyürk, on behalf of the PfE Group, Ondřej Krutílek, on behalf of the ECR Group, Yvan Verougstraete, on behalf of the Renew Group, Marie Toussaint, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Dario Tamburrano, on behalf of The Left Group, Alexander Sell, on behalf of the ESN Group, Jüri Ratas, Nicolás González Casares, Julie Rechagneux, Michael Bloss, Thomas Geisel and Mirosława Nykiel.

IN THE CHAIR: Ewa KOPACZ
Vice-President

The following spoke: Michalis Hadjipantela and Virgil-Daniel Popescu.

The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Liudas Mažylis, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Marta Wcisło and Billy Kelleher.

The following spoke: Dan Jørgensen and Borys Budka.

The debate closed.

Vote: 8 May 2025.

17. Banking Union – annual report 2024 (debate)

Report on Banking Union – annual report 2024 [2024/2055(INI)] – Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs. Rapporteur: Ralf Seekatz (A10-0044/2025)

Ralf Seekatz introduced the report.

The following spoke: Michael McGrath (Member of the Commission).

The following spoke: Marco Falcone, on behalf of the PPE Group, Jonás Fernández, on behalf of the S&D Group, Marlena Maląg, on behalf of the ECR Group, Billy Kelleher, on behalf of the Renew Group, Jussi Saramo, on behalf of The Left Group, Costas Mavrides and Giovanni Crosetto.

The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Marta Wcisło, Sebastian Tynkkynen and Lukas Sieper.

The following spoke: Michael McGrath and Ralf Seekatz.

The debate closed.

Vote: 8 May 2025.

18. The fine against TikTok and the need to strengthen the protection of citizens’ rights on social media platforms (debate)

Commission statement: The fine against TikTok and the need to strengthen the protection of citizens’ rights on social media platforms (2025/2704(RSP))

Michael McGrath (Member of the Commission) made the statement.

The following spoke: François-Xavier Bellamy, on behalf of the PPE Group, Alex Agius Saliba, on behalf of the S&D Group, Virginie Joron, on behalf of the PfE Group, Gheorghe Piperea, on behalf of the ECR Group, Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová, on behalf of the Renew Group, Alexandra Geese, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Konstantinos Arvanitis, on behalf of The Left Group, Mary Khan, Pablo Arias Echeverría, Elisabeth Dieringer, Sandro Gozi, Fidias Panayiotou, Sunčana Glavak, Cynthia Ní Mhurchú and Moritz Körner.

The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Juan Fernando López Aguilar, Billy Kelleher and Lukas Sieper.

The following spoke: Michael McGrath.

The debate closed.

19. Debate on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law (debate)

(For the titles and authors of the motions for resolutions, see minutes of 7.5.2025, item I.)

19.1. Arrest and risk of execution of Tundu Lissu, Chair of Chadema, the main opposition party in Tanzania

Motions for resolutions B10-0260/2025, B10-0261/2025, B10-0262/2025, B10-0263/2025, B10-0264/2025 and B10-0265/2025 (2025/2690(RSP))

Reinhold Lopatka, Marit Maij, Jan-Christoph Oetjen, Catarina Vieira and Tomasz Froelich introduced their groups’ motions for resolutions.

The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Lukas Sieper.

The following spoke: Michael McGrath (Member of the Commission).

The debate closed.

Vote: 8 May 2025.

19.2. Return of Ukrainian children forcibly transferred and deported by Russia

Motions for resolutions B10-0247/2025, B10-0249/2025, B10-0250/2025, B10-0252/2025, B10-0255/2025 and B10-0258/2025 (2025/2691(RSP))

Jessika Van Leeuwen, Thijs Reuten, Petras Auštrevičius, Villy Søvndal and Małgorzata Gosiewska introduced their groups’ motions for resolutions.

The following spoke: Michał Szczerba, on behalf of the PPE Group, and Pina Picierno, on behalf of the S&D Group.

IN THE CHAIR: Antonella SBERNA
Vice-President

The following spoke: Karin Karlsbro, on behalf of the Renew Group, Ingeborg Ter Laak, Sandra Gómez López, Charles Goerens, Lukas Mandl, Pierfrancesco Maran, Isabel Wiseler-Lima, Davor Ivo Stier and Alice Teodorescu Måwe.

The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Liudas Mažylis, Nikos Papandreou, Lukas Sieper and Marta Wcisło.

The following spoke: Michael McGrath (Member of the Commission).

The debate closed.

Vote: 8 May 2025.

19.3. Violations of religious freedom in Tibet

Motions for resolutions B10-0248/2025, B10-0251/2025, B10-0253/2025, B10-0254/2025, B10-0256/2025 and B10-0259/2025 (2025/2692(RSP))

Danuše Nerudová, Hannes Heide, Mariusz Kamiński, Engin Eroglu and Ville Niinistö introduced their groups’ motions for resolutions.

The following spoke: Michael McNamara, on behalf of the Renew Group.

The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Vytenis Povilas Andriukaitis and Lukas Sieper.

The following spoke: Michael McNamara, on the previous speaker’s comments, and Lukas Sieper on Michael McNamara’s contribution.

The following spoke: Michael McGrath (Member of the Commission).

The debate closed.

Vote: 8 May 2025.

20. Democratic legitimacy and the Commission’s continued authorisation of genetically modified organisms despite Parliament’s objections (debate)

Commission statement: Democratic legitimacy and the Commission’s continued authorisation of genetically modified organisms despite Parliament’s objections (2025/2645(RSP))

Olivér Várhelyi (Member of the Commission) made the statement.

The following spoke: Esther Herranz García, on behalf of the PPE Group, Biljana Borzan, on behalf of the S&D Group, Paolo Inselvini, on behalf of the ECR Group, Martin Häusling, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Nikolas Farantouris, on behalf of The Left Group, Daniel Buda, Maria Noichl, Georgiana Teodorescu and Günther Sidl.

The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Kristian Vigenin, Diana Iovanovici Şoşoacă, Vytenis Povilas Andriukaitis and Lukas Sieper.

The following spoke: Olivér Várhelyi.

The debate closed.

21. The illegal visit of President Erdoğan to the occupied areas of Cyprus (debate)

Council and Commission statements: The illegal visit of President Erdoğan to the occupied areas of Cyprus (2025/2705(RSP))

Michael McGrath (Member of the Commission) made the statement on behalf of the Commission.

The following spoke: Loucas Fourlas, on behalf of the PPE Group, Costas Mavrides, on behalf of the S&D Group, Afroditi Latinopoulou, on behalf of the PfE Group, Geadis Geadi, on behalf of the ECR Group (the President reminded the speaker of the rules on conduct), Kai Tegethoff, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, and Irene Montero, on behalf of The Left Group.

The following spoke: Michael McGrath.

The debate closed.

22. Explanations of vote

22.1. Discharge 2023: EU general budget – European External Action Service (A10-0069/2025 – Joachim Stanisław Brudziński) (oral explanations of vote)

Lynn Boylan

22.2. Written explanations of vote

Explanations of vote submitted in writing under Rule 201 appear on the Members’ pages on Parliament’s website.

23. Agenda of the next sitting

The next sitting would be held the following day, 8 May 2025, starting at 09:00. The agenda was available on Parliament’s website.

24. Approval of the minutes of the sitting

In accordance with Rule 208(3), the minutes of the sitting would be put to the House for approval at the beginning of the afternoon of the next sitting.

25. Closure of the sitting

The sitting closed at 22:21.

LIST OF DOCUMENTS SERVING AS A BASIS FOR THE DEBATES AND DECISIONS OF PARLIAMENT

I. Motions for resolutions tabled

Arrest and risk of execution of Tundu Lissu, Chair of Chadema, the main opposition party in Tanzania

The following Members or political groups had requested that a debate be held, in accordance with Rule 150, on the following motions for resolutions:

on the arrest and risk of execution of Tundu Lissu, Chair of Chadema, the main opposition party in Tanzania (2025/2690(RSP)) (B10-0260/2025)
Catarina Vieira, Nicolae Ştefănuță, Mounir Satouri, Maria Ohisalo, Mélissa Camara, Ville Niinistö
on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group

on the arrest and risk of execution of Tundu Lissu, Chair of Chadema, the main opposition party in Tanzania (2025/2690(RSP)) (B10-0261/2025)
Yannis Maniatis, Francisco Assis, Marit Maij
on behalf of the S&D Group

on the arrest and risk of execution of Tundu Lissu, Chair of Chadema, the main opposition party in Tanzania (2025/2690(RSP)) (B10-0262/2025)
Tomasz Froelich
on behalf of the ESN Group

on the arrest and risk of execution of Tundu Lissu, Chair of Chadema, the main opposition party in Tanzania (2025/2690(RSP)) (B10-0263/2025)
Jan-Christoph Oetjen, Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez, Petras Auštrevičius, Malik Azmani, Dan Barna, Benoit Cassart, Olivier Chastel, Engin Eroglu, Svenja Hahn, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Karin Karlsbro, Moritz Körner, Urmas Paet, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, Hilde Vautmans, Michal Wiezik, Lucia Yar
on behalf of the Renew Group

on the arrest and risk of execution of Tundu Lissu, Chair of Chadema, the main opposition party in Tanzania (2025/2690(RSP)) (B10-0264/2025)
Sebastião Bugalho, Reinhold Lopatka, Michael Gahler, David McAllister, Antonio López-Istúriz White, Ana Miguel Pedro, Davor Ivo Stier, Tomas Tobé, Liudas Mažylis, Ingeborg Ter Laak, Isabel Wiseler-Lima, Mirosława Nykiel, Wouter Beke, Luděk Niedermayer, Vangelis Meimarakis, Milan Zver, Tomáš Zdechovský, Danuše Nerudová, Miriam Lexmann, Jan Farský, Loránt Vincze, Jessica Polfjärd, Andrey Kovatchev, Inese Vaidere
on behalf of the PPE Group

on the arrest and risk of execution of Tundu Lissu, Chair of Chadema, the main opposition party in Tanzania (2025/2690(RSP)) (B10-0265/2025)
Adam Bielan, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Waldemar Tomaszewski, Ondřej Krutílek, Veronika Vrecionová, Alexandr Vondra, Joachim Stanisław Brudziński, Ivaylo Valchev, Jadwiga Wiśniewska, Assita Kanko, Alberico Gambino, Carlo Fidanza
on behalf of the ECR Group

Return of Ukrainian children forcibly transferred and deported by Russia

The following Members or political groups had requested that a debate be held, in accordance with Rule 150, on the following motions for resolutions:

on the return of Ukrainian children forcibly transferred and deported by Russia (2025/2691(RSP)) (B10-0247/2025)
Merja Kyllönen
on behalf of The Left Group

on the return of Ukrainian children forcibly transferred and deported by Russia (2025/2691(RSP)) (B10-0249/2025)
Villy Søvndal, Sergey Lagodinsky, Nicolae Ştefănuță, Mounir Satouri, Maria Ohisalo, Catarina Vieira, Ville Niinistö
on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group

on the return of Ukrainian children forcibly transferred and deported by Russia (2025/2691(RSP)) (B10-0250/2025)
Yannis Maniatis, Francisco Assis, Thijs Reuten, Evin Incir, Pina Picierno
on behalf of the S&D Group

on the return of Ukrainian children forcibly transferred and deported by Russia (2025/2691(RSP)) (B10-0252/2025)
Petras Auštrevičius, Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez, Abir Al-Sahlani, Malik Azmani, Dan Barna, Helmut Brandstätter, Benoit Cassart, Olivier Chastel, Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová, Engin Eroglu, Svenja Hahn, Karin Karlsbro, Ľubica Karvašová, Moritz Körner, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Nathalie Loiseau, Jan-Christoph Oetjen, Urmas Paet, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, Eugen Tomac, Hilde Vautmans, Lucia Yar, Michał Kobosko
on behalf of the Renew Group

on the return of Ukrainian children forcibly transferred and deported by Russia (2025/2691(RSP)) (B10-0255/2025)
Sebastião Bugalho, Jessika Van Leeuwen, Michael Gahler, David McAllister, Sandra Kalniete, Andrzej Halicki, Antonio López-Istúriz White, Ana Miguel Pedro, Dariusz Joński, Davor Ivo Stier, Tomas Tobé, Reinhold Lopatka, Liudas Mažylis, Ingeborg Ter Laak, Isabel Wiseler-Lima, Mirosława Nykiel, Wouter Beke, Luděk Niedermayer, Vangelis Meimarakis, Milan Zver, Tomáš Zdechovský, Danuše Nerudová, Miriam Lexmann, Ondřej Kolář, Jan Farský, Loránt Vincze, Jessica Polfjärd, Andrey Kovatchev, Ewa Kopacz, Matej Tonin, Inese Vaidere
on behalf of the PPE Group

on the return of Ukrainian children forcibly transferred and deported by Russia (2025/2691(RSP)) (B10-0258/2025)
Adam Bielan, Mariusz Kamiński, Małgorzata Gosiewska, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Michał Dworczyk, Veronika Vrecionová, Ondřej Krutílek, Jaak Madison, Alexandr Vondra, Arkadiusz Mularczyk, Bogdan Rzońca, Roberts Zīle, Ivaylo Valchev, Joachim Stanisław Brudziński, Assita Kanko, Aurelijus Veryga, Jadwiga Wiśniewska, Rihards Kols, Maciej Wąsik, Marlena Maląg, Charlie Weimers, Cristian Terheş
on behalf of the ECR Group

Violations of religious freedom in Tibet

The following Members or political groups had requested that a debate be held, in accordance with Rule 150, on the following motions for resolutions:

on the violations of religious freedom in Tibet (2025/2692(RSP)) (B10-0248/2025)
Ville Niinistö, Catarina Vieira, Maria Ohisalo, Erik Marquardt, Nicolae Ştefănuță, Mounir Satouri, Leoluca Orlando
on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group

on the violations of religious freedom in Tibet (2025/2692(RSP)) (B10-0251/2025)
Yannis Maniatis, Francisco Assis, Hannes Heide
on behalf of the S&D Group

on the violations of religious freedom in Tibet (2025/2692(RSP)) (B10-0253/2025)
Hermann Tertsch, Jorge Martín Frías, Jaroslav Bžoch, Susanna Ceccardi
on behalf of the PfE Group

on the violations of religious freedom in Tibet (2025/2692(RSP)) (B10-0254/2025)
Engin Eroglu, Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez, Petras Auštrevičius, Malik Azmani, Dan Barna, Helmut Brandstätter, Benoit Cassart, Olivier Chastel, Bernard Guetta, Svenja Hahn, Ľubica Karvašová, Moritz Körner, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Nathalie Loiseau, Karin Karlsbro, Jan-Christoph Oetjen, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, Lucia Yar, Dainius Žalimas
on behalf of the Renew Group

on the violations of religious freedom in Tibet (2025/2692(RSP)) (B10-0256/2025)
Sebastião Bugalho, Danuše Nerudová, Michael Gahler, Antonio López-Istúriz White, Ana Miguel Pedro, Davor Ivo Stier, Tomas Tobé, Reinhold Lopatka, Liudas Mažylis, Ingeborg Ter Laak, Isabel Wiseler-Lima, Mirosława Nykiel, Wouter Beke, Luděk Niedermayer, Vangelis Meimarakis, Milan Zver, Tomáš Zdechovský, Miriam Lexmann, Ondřej Kolář, Jan Farský, Loránt Vincze, Jessica Polfjärd, Andrey Kovatchev, Inese Vaidere
on behalf of the PPE Group

on the violations of religious freedom in Tibet (2025/2692(RSP)) (B10-0259/2025)
Adam Bielan, Mariusz Kamiński, Waldemar Tomaszewski, Alberico Gambino, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Carlo Fidanza, Małgorzata Gosiewska, Ondřej Krutílek, Veronika Vrecionová, Assita Kanko, Michał Dworczyk, Arkadiusz Mularczyk, Bogdan Rzońca, Alexandr Vondra, Joachim Stanisław Brudziński, Jadwiga Wiśniewska, Maciej Wąsik, Marlena Maląg
on behalf of the ECR Group

II. Delegated acts (Rule 114(2))

Draft delegated acts forwarded to Parliament

– Commission Delegated Regulation supplementing Regulation (EU) 2023/2631 of the European Parliament and of the Council by establishing the content, methodologies, and presentation of the information to be voluntarily disclosed by issuers of bonds marketed as environmentally sustainable or of sustainability-linked bonds in the templates for periodic post-issuance disclosures (C(2025)00005 – 2025/2674(DEA))

Deadline for raising objections: 3 months from the date of receipt of 16 April 2025

referred to committee responsible: ECON

– Commission Delegated Regulation supplementing Regulation (EU) 2023/2631of the European Parliament and of the Council by specifying rules of procedure for the exercise of the power to impose fines or periodic penalty payments by the European Securities and Markets Authority on external reviewers (C(2025)00006 – 2025/2676(DEA))

Deadline for raising objections: 3 months from the date of receipt of 16 April 2025

referred to committee responsible: ECON

– Commission Delegated Regulation supplementing Regulation (EU) 2023/2631 of the European Parliament and of the Council by specifying the type of fees to be charged by ESMA to external reviewers of European Green Bonds, the matters in respect of which fees are due, the amount of the fees, and the manner in which those fees are to be paid (C(2025)00007 – 2025/2677(DEA))

Deadline for raising objections: 3 months from the date of receipt of 16 April 2025

referred to committee responsible: ECON

– Commission Delegated Regulation supplementing Directive 2013/36/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council with regard to regulatory technical standards specifying the general conditions for the functioning of supervisory colleges, and repealing Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/98 (C(2025)00701 – 2025/2678(DEA))

Deadline for raising objections: 3 months from the date of receipt of 23 April 2025

referred to committee responsible: ECON

– Commission Delegated Regulation amending Regulation (EU) 2023/1804 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards additional data types on alternative fuels infrastructure (C(2025)01912 – 2025/2661(DEA))

Deadline for raising objections: 2 months from the date of receipt of 2 April 2025

referred to committee responsible: TRAN

– Commission Delegated Regulation supplementing Regulation (EU) 2023/1804 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards common technical requirements for a common application programme interface (C(2025)01913 – 2025/2659(DEA))

Deadline for raising objections: 2 months from the date of receipt of 2 April 2025

referred to committee responsible: TRAN

– Commission Delegated Regulation amending Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards the harmonised classification and labelling of certain substances (C(2025)01916 – 2025/2660(DEA))

Deadline for raising objections: 2 months from the date of receipt of 2 April 2025

referred to committee responsible: ENVI
opinion: IMCO

– Commission Delegated Regulation amending Regulation (EU) 2023/1804 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards standards for wireless recharging, electric road system, vehicle-to-grid communication and hydrogen supply for road transport vehicles (C(2025)01918 – 2025/2662(DEA))

Deadline for raising objections: 2 months from the date of receipt of 2 April 2025

referred to committee responsible: TRAN

– Commission Delegated Regulation amending Delegated Regulation (EU) 2015/68 and Delegated Regulation (EU) 2015/208 with regard to vehicle braking requirements and to vehicle functional safety requirements for agricultural and forestry vehicles (C(2025)01944 – 2025/2663(DEA))

Deadline for raising objections: 2 months from the date of receipt of 3 April 2025

referred to committee responsible: IMCO

– Commission Delegated Regulation amending Delegated Regulation (EU) 2023/205 as regards the European Maritime Single Window environment data set (C(2025)02021 – 2025/2667(DEA))

Deadline for raising objections: 2 months from the date of receipt of 7 April 2025

referred to committee responsible: TRAN

– Commission Delegated Regulation supplementing Regulation (EU) No 305/2011 of the European Parliament and of the Council by establishing threshold levels and classes of performance for permanent anchor devices and safety hooks (C(2025)02119 – 2025/2670(DEA))

Deadline for raising objections: 3 months from the date of receipt of 9 April 2025

referred to committee responsible: IMCO

– Commission Delegated Directive amending Directive 2005/36/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards the minimum training requirements for the profession of veterinary surgeon (C(2025)02128 – 2025/2671(DEA))

Deadline for raising objections: 2 months from the date of receipt of 10 April 2025

referred to committee responsible: IMCO

– Commission Delegated Regulation amending Regulation (EU) 2019/1021 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards perfluorooctane sulfonic acid and its derivatives (C(2025)02189 – 2025/2672(DEA))

Deadline for raising objections: 2 months from the date of receipt of 14 April 2025

referred to committee responsible: ENVI

– Commission delegated decision on the unilateral inclusion of sectors by Finland in the emissions trading system within the Union for buildings, road transport and additional sectors pursuant to Article 30j of Directive 2003/87/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (C(2025)02232 – 2025/2673(DEA))

Deadline for raising objections: 2 months from the date of receipt of 15 April 2025

referred to committee responsible: ENVI
opinion: ITRE

– Commission Delegated Regulation amending Delegated Regulation (EU) 2023/2197 as regards the date of application (C(2025)02258 – 2025/2675(DEA))

Deadline for raising objections: 3 months from the date of receipt of 16 April 2025

referred to committee responsible: SANT

– Commission Delegated Regulation supplementing Regulation (EU) No 575/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council with regard to regulatory technical standards specifying the conditions and indicators that the EBA is to use to determine whether extraordinary circumstances in the sense of Article 325az(5) and Article 325bf(6) of that Regulation have occurred (C(2025)02287 – 2025/2679(DEA))

Deadline for raising objections: 3 months from the date of receipt of 23 April 2025

referred to committee responsible: ECON

– Commission Delegated Regulation supplementing Regulation (EU) 2023/1114 of the European Parliament and of the Council with regard to regulatory technical standards specifying the arrangements, systems and procedures to prevent, detect and report market abuse, the templates to be used for reporting suspected market abuse, and the coordination procedures between the competent authorities for the detection and sanctioning of market abuse in cross-border market abuse situations (C(2025)02480 – 2025/2684(DEA))

Deadline for raising objections: 3 months from the date of receipt of 29 April 2025

referred to committee responsible: ECON

– Commission Delegated Regulation amending Annex I to Regulation (EU) 2019/1021 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), its salts and PFOA-related compounds (C(2025)02566 – 2025/2701(DEA))

Deadline for raising objections: 2 months from the date of receipt of 5 May 2025

referred to committee responsible: ENVI

– Commission Delegated Regulation (EU)…/ … amending Annex I to Regulation (EU) 2019/1021 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards UV-328 (C(2025)02567 – 2025/2703(DEA))

Deadline for raising objections: 2 months from the date of receipt of 5 May 2025

referred to committee responsible: ENVI

– Commission Delegated Regulation amending Delegated Regulation (EU) 2024/2910 on the implementation of the Union’s international obligations, as referred to in Article 15(2) of Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council, under the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (C(2025)02570 – 2025/2702(DEA))

Deadline for raising objections: 2 months from the date of receipt of 5 May 2025

referred to committee responsible: PECH

III. Implementing measures (Rule 115)

Draft implementing measures falling under the regulatory procedure with scrutiny forwarded to Parliament

– Commission Regulation correcting certain language versions of Regulation (EU) No 142/2011 implementing Regulation (EC) No 1069/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council laying down health rules as regards animal by-products and derived products not intended for human consumption and implementing Council Directive 97/78/EC as regards certain samples and items exempt from veterinary checks at the border under that Directive (D010438/05 – 2025/2693(RPS) – deadline: 22 July 2025)
referred to committee responsible: ENVI
opinion: AGRI

– Commission Regulation amending Annex II to Regulation (EC) No 396/2005 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards maximum residue levels for acetamiprid in or on certain products (D102375/03 – 2025/2664(RPS) – deadline: 4 June 2025)
referred to committee responsible: ENVI

– Commission Regulation amending Annex III to Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards the use of polyvinylpolypyrrolidone (E 1202) as a carrier in colour tablets for the decorative colouring of poultry eggshells (D106245/02 – 2025/2680(RPS) – deadline: 29 June 2025)
referred to committee responsible: ENVI

– Commission Regulation amending Regulation (EU) 2023/915 as regards maximum levels of inorganic arsenic in fish and other seafood (D106246/02 – 2025/2681(RPS) – deadline: 29 July 2025)
referred to committee responsible: ENVI

IV. Documents received

The following documents had been received from other institutions:

– Proposal for transfer of appropriations DEC 05/2025 – Section III – Commission (N10-0013/2025 – C10-0065/2025 – 2025/2078(GBD))
referred to committee responsible: BUDG

– Proposal for transfer of appropriations INF 1/2025 – Section VI – Economic and Social Committee (N10-0014/2025 – C10-0078/2025 – 2025/2091(GBD))
referred to committee responsible: BUDG

– Proposal for transfer of appropriations No. 2/2025 – Section IX – European Data Protection Supervisor (N10-0015/2025 – C10-0079/2025 – 2025/2092(GBD))
referred to committee responsible: BUDG

V. Transfers of appropriations and budgetary decisions

In accordance with Article 31(1) of the Financial Regulation, the Committee on Budgets had decided to approve the European Commission’s transfers of appropriations DEC 03/2025 and DEC 04/2025 – Section III – Commission.

In accordance with Article 31(6) of the Financial Regulation, the Council of the European Union had decided to approve the European Commission’s transfers of appropriations DEC 03/2025 and DEC 04/2025 – Section III – Commission.

ATTENDANCE REGISTER

Present:

Aaltola Mika, Abadía Jover Maravillas, Adamowicz Magdalena, Aftias Georgios, Agirregoitia Martínez Oihane, Agius Peter, Agius Saliba Alex, Alexandraki Galato, Allione Grégory, Al-Sahlani Abir, Anadiotis Nikolaos, Anderson Christine, Andersson Li, Andresen Rasmus, Andrews Barry, Andriukaitis Vytenis Povilas, Androuët Mathilde, Angel Marc, Annemans Gerolf, Annunziata Lucia, Antoci Giuseppe, Arias Echeverría Pablo, Arimont Pascal, Arłukowicz Bartosz, Arnaoutoglou Sakis, Arndt Anja, Arvanitis Konstantinos, Asens Llodrà Jaume, Assis Francisco, Attard Daniel, Aubry Manon, Auštrevičius Petras, Axinia Adrian-George, Azmani Malik, Bajada Thomas, Baljeu Jeannette, Ballarín Cereza Laura, Bardella Jordan, Barna Dan, Barrena Arza Pernando, Bartulica Stephen Nikola, Bartůšek Nikola, Bay Nicolas, Bay Christophe, Beke Wouter, Beleris Fredis, Bellamy François-Xavier, Benea Dragoş, Benifei Brando, Benjumea Benjumea Isabel, Beňová Monika, Berendsen Tom, Berger Stefan, Berlato Sergio, Bernhuber Alexander, Biedroń Robert, Bielan Adam, Bischoff Gabriele, Blaha Ľuboš, Blinkevičiūtė Vilija, Blom Rachel, Bloss Michael, Bocheński Tobiasz, Boeselager Damian, Bogdan Ioan-Rareş, Bonaccini Stefano, Bonte Barbara, Borchia Paolo, Borrás Pabón Mireia, Borvendég Zsuzsanna, Borzan Biljana, Bosanac Gordan, Boßdorf Irmhild, Bosse Stine, Botenga Marc, Boyer Gilles, Boylan Lynn, Brandstätter Helmut, Brasier-Clain Marie-Luce, Bricmont Saskia, Brnjac Nikolina, Brudziński Joachim Stanisław, Bryłka Anna, Buchheit Markus, Buczek Tomasz, Buda Daniel, Buda Waldemar, Budka Borys, Bugalho Sebastião, Buła Andrzej, Bullmann Udo, Burkhardt Delara, Buxadé Villalba Jorge, Bystron Petr, Bžoch Jaroslav, Camara Mélissa, Canfin Pascal, Carberry Nina, Cârciu Gheorghe, Carême Damien, Casa David, Caspary Daniel, Cassart Benoit, Castillo Laurent, del Castillo Vera Pilar, Cavazzini Anna, Cavedagna Stefano, Cepeda José, Ceulemans Estelle, Chahim Mohammed, Chaibi Leila, Chastel Olivier, Chinnici Caterina, Christensen Asger, Ciccioli Carlo, Cifrová Ostrihoňová Veronika, Ciriani Alessandro, Cisint Anna Maria, Clausen Per, Clergeau Christophe, Cormand David, Corrado Annalisa, Costanzo Vivien, Cotrim De Figueiredo João, Cowen Barry, Cremer Tobias, Crespo Díaz Carmen, Cristea Andi, Crosetto Giovanni, Cunha Paulo, Dahl Henrik, Danielsson Johan, Dauchy Marie, Dávid Dóra, David Ivan, Decaro Antonio, de la Hoz Quintano Raúl, Della Valle Danilo, Deloge Valérie, De Masi Fabio, De Meo Salvatore, Demirel Özlem, Deutsch Tamás, Devaux Valérie, Dibrani Adnan, Diepeveen Ton, Dieringer Elisabeth, Dîncu Vasile, Di Rupo Elio, Disdier Mélanie, Dobrev Klára, Doherty Regina, Doleschal Christian, Dömötör Csaba, Do Nascimento Cabral Paulo, Donazzan Elena, Dorfmann Herbert, Dostalova Klara, Dostál Ondřej, Droese Siegbert Frank, Dworczyk Michał, Ecke Matthias, Ehler Christian, Ehlers Marieke, Eriksson Sofie, Erixon Dick, Eroglu Engin, Estaràs Ferragut Rosa, Everding Sebastian, Falcă Gheorghe, Falcone Marco, Farantouris Nikolas, Farreng Laurence, Farský Jan, Ferber Markus, Ferenc Viktória, Fernández Jonás, Fidanza Carlo, Fiocchi Pietro, Firea Gabriela, Firmenich Ruth, Fita Claire, Fourlas Loucas, Fourreau Emma, Fragkos Emmanouil, Freund Daniel, Frigout Anne-Sophie, Fritzon Heléne, Froelich Tomasz, Fuglsang Niels, Funchion Kathleen, Furet Angéline, Furore Mario, Gahler Michael, Gál Kinga, Galán Estrella, Gálvez Lina, Gambino Alberico, García Hermida-Van Der Walle Raquel, Garraud Jean-Paul, Gasiuk-Pihowicz Kamila, Geadi Geadis, Gedin Hanna, Geese Alexandra, Geier Jens, Geisel Thomas, Gemma Chiara, Georgiou Giorgos, Gerbrandy Gerben-Jan, Germain Jean-Marc, Gerzsenyi Gabriella, Geuking Niels, Gieseke Jens, Giménez Larraz Borja, Girauta Vidal Juan Carlos, Glavak Sunčana, Glück Andreas, Glucksmann Raphaël, Goerens Charles, Gomart Christophe, Gomes Isilda, Gómez López Sandra, Gonçalves Bruno, Gonçalves Sérgio, González Casares Nicolás, González Pons Esteban, Gori Giorgio, Gosiewska Małgorzata, Gotink Dirk, Gozi Sandro, Grapini Maria, Gražulis Petras, Grims Branko, Griset Catherine, Gronkiewicz-Waltz Hanna, Groothuis Bart, Grossmann Elisabeth, Grudler Christophe, Gualmini Elisabetta, Guarda Cristina, Győri Enikő, Gyürk András, Hadjipantela Michalis, Hahn Svenja, Haider Roman, Halicki Andrzej, Hansen Niels Flemming, Hauser Gerald, Häusling Martin, Hava Mircea-Gheorghe, Heide Hannes, Heinäluoma Eero, Henriksson Anna-Maja, Herbst Niclas, Herranz García Esther, Hetman Krzysztof, Hohlmeier Monika, Hojsík Martin, Holmgren Pär, Hölvényi György, Homs Ginel Alicia, Humberto Sérgio, Imart Céline, Incir Evin, Inselvini Paolo, Iovanovici Şoşoacă Diana, Jamet France, Jarubas Adam, Jerković Romana, Jongen Marc, Joński Dariusz, Joron Virginie, Jouvet Pierre, Joveva Irena, Juknevičienė Rasa, Junco García Nora, Jungbluth Alexander, Kabilov Taner, Kalfon François, Kaliňák Erik, Kaljurand Marina, Kalniete Sandra, Kamiński Mariusz, Karlsbro Karin, Kartheiser Fernand, Karvašová Ľubica, Katainen Elsi, Kefalogiannis Emmanouil, Kelleher Billy, Keller Fabienne, Kelly Seán, Kennes Rudi, Khan Mary, Kircher Sophia, Knafo Sarah, Knotek Ondřej, Kobosko Michał, Köhler Stefan, Kohut Łukasz, Kokalari Arba, Kolář Ondřej, Kols Rihards, Konečná Kateřina, Kopacz Ewa, Körner Moritz, Kountoura Elena, Kovařík Ondřej, Kovatchev Andrey, Krištopans Vilis, Kruis Sebastian, Krutílek Ondřej, Kubín Tomáš, Kuhnke Alice, Kulja András Tivadar, Kulmuni Katri, Kyllönen Merja, Kyuchyuk Ilhan, Lakos Eszter, Lalucq Aurore, Lange Bernd, Langensiepen Katrin, Laššáková Judita, László András, Latinopoulou Afroditi, Laurent Murielle, Laureti Camilla, Laykova Rada, Lazarov Ilia, Le Callennec Isabelle, Leggeri Fabrice, Lenaers Jeroen, Leonardelli Julien, Lewandowski Janusz, Lexmann Miriam, Liese Peter, Loiseau Nathalie, Løkkegaard Morten, Lopatka Reinhold, López Javi, López Aguilar Juan Fernando, López-Istúriz White Antonio, Lövin Isabella, Lucano Mimmo, Luena César, Łukacijewska Elżbieta Katarzyna, Lupo Giuseppe, McAllister David, Madison Jaak, Maestre Cristina, Magoni Lara, Magyar Péter, Maij Marit, Maląg Marlena, Manda Claudiu, Mandl Lukas, Maniatis Yannis, Mantovani Mario, Maran Pierfrancesco, Marczułajtis-Walczak Jagna, Maréchal Marion, Mariani Thierry, Marino Ignazio Roberto, Marquardt Erik, Martín Frías Jorge, Martusciello Fulvio, Marzà Ibáñez Vicent, Mato Gabriel, Mavrides Costas, Maydell Eva, Mayer Georg, Mazurek Milan, Mažylis Liudas, McNamara Michael, Mebarek Nora, Meimarakis Vangelis, Meleti Eleonora, Mendes Ana Catarina, Mendia Idoia, Mertens Verena, Mesure Marina, Metsola Roberta, Metz Tilly, Mikser Sven, Milazzo Giuseppe, Millán Mon Francisco José, Minchev Nikola, Miranda Paz Ana, Molnár Csaba, Montero Irene, Montserrat Dolors, Morace Carolina, Morano Nadine, Moratti Letizia, Moreira de Sá Tiago, Moreno Sánchez Javier, Moretti Alessandra, Motreanu Dan-Ştefan, Mularczyk Arkadiusz, Müller Piotr, Mullooly Ciaran, Mureşan Siegfried, Muşoiu Ştefan, Nagyová Jana, Navarrete Rojas Fernando, Negrescu Victor, Nemec Matjaž, Nerudová Danuše, Nesci Denis, Neuhoff Hans, Neumann Hannah, Nevado del Campo Elena, Nica Dan, Niebler Angelika, Niedermayer Luděk, Niinistö Ville, Nikolaou-Alavanos Lefteris, Nikolic Aleksandar, Ní Mhurchú Cynthia, Noichl Maria, Nordqvist Rasmus, Novakov Andrey, Nykiel Mirosława, Obajtek Daniel, Ódor Ľudovít, Oetjen Jan-Christoph, Ohisalo Maria, Olivier Philippe, Omarjee Younous, Ondruš Branislav, Ó Ríordáin Aodhán, Orlando Leoluca, Ozdoba Jacek, Paet Urmas, Pajín Leire, Palmisano Valentina, Panayiotou Fidias, Papadakis Kostas, Papandreou Nikos, Pappas Nikos, Pascual de la Parte Nicolás, Patriciello Aldo, Paulus Jutta, Pedro Ana Miguel, Pedulla’ Gaetano, Pellerin-Carlin Thomas, Peltier Guillaume, Penkova Tsvetelina, Pennelle Gilles, Pereira Lídia, Peter-Hansen Kira Marie, Petrov Hristo, Picaro Michele, Picierno Pina, Picula Tonino, Piera Pascale, Pietikäinen Sirpa, Pimpie Pierre, Piperea Gheorghe, de la Pisa Carrión Margarita, Pokorná Jermanová Jaroslava, Polato Daniele, Polfjärd Jessica, Popescu Virgil-Daniel, Pozņaks Reinis, Prebilič Vladimir, Princi Giusi, Protas Jacek, Pürner Friedrich, Rackete Carola, Radev Emil, Radtke Dennis, Rafowicz Emma, Ratas Jüri, Razza Ruggero, Rechagneux Julie, Regner Evelyn, Repasi René, Repp Sabrina, Ressler Karlo, Reuten Thijs, Riba i Giner Diana, Ricci Matteo, Ridel Chloé, Riehl Nela, Ripa Manuela, Rodrigues André, Ros Sempere Marcos, Roth Neveďalová Katarína, Rougé André, Ruissen Bert-Jan, Ruotolo Sandro, Rzońca Bogdan, Saeidi Arash, Salini Massimiliano, Salis Ilaria, Salla Aura, Sánchez Amor Nacho, Sanchez Julien, Sancho Murillo Elena, Saramo Jussi, Sardone Silvia, Sargiacomo Eric, Satouri Mounir, Saudargas Paulius, Sbai Majdouline, Sberna Antonella, Schaldemose Christel, Schaller-Baross Ernő, Schenk Oliver, Scheuring-Wielgus Joanna, Schieder Andreas, Schilling Lena, Schneider Christine, Schnurrbusch Volker, Schwab Andreas, Scuderi Benedetta, Seekatz Ralf, Sell Alexander, Serrano Sierra Rosa, Sidl Günther, Sienkiewicz Bartłomiej, Sieper Lukas, Simon Sven, Singer Christine, Sinkevičius Virginijus, Sippel Birgit, Sjöstedt Jonas, Śmiszek Krzysztof, Smith Anthony, Smit Sander, Sokol Tomislav, Solier Diego, Solís Pérez Susana, Sommen Liesbet, Sonneborn Martin, Sorel Malika, Sousa Silva Hélder, Søvndal Villy, Squarta Marco, Staķis Mārtiņš, Stancanelli Raffaele, Ştefănuță Nicolae, Steger Petra, Stier Davor Ivo, Storm Kristoffer, Stöteler Sebastiaan, Stoyanov Stanislav, Strack-Zimmermann Marie-Agnes, Strada Cecilia, Streit Joachim, Strik Tineke, Strolenberg Anna, Sturdza Şerban Dimitrie, Stürgkh Anna, Sypniewski Marcin, Szczerba Michał, Szekeres Pál, Szydło Beata, Tamburrano Dario, Tânger Corrêa António, Tarczyński Dominik, Tarquinio Marco, Tarr Zoltán, Târziu Claudiu-Richard, Tavares Carla, Tegethoff Kai, Teodorescu Georgiana, Teodorescu Måwe Alice, Terheş Cristian, Ter Laak Ingeborg, Terras Riho, Tertsch Hermann, Thionnet Pierre-Romain, Timgren Beatrice, Tinagli Irene, Tobback Bruno, Tobé Tomas, Tolassy Rody, Tomac Eugen, Tomašič Zala, Tomaszewski Waldemar, Tomc Romana, Tonin Matej, Toom Jana, Torselli Francesco, Tosi Flavio, Toussaint Marie, Tovaglieri Isabella, Tridico Pasquale, Trochu Laurence, Tsiodras Dimitris, Tudose Mihai, Turek Filip, Tynkkynen Sebastian, Ušakovs Nils, Vaidere Inese, Valchev Ivaylo, Vălean Adina, Valet Matthieu, Van Brempt Kathleen, Van Brug Anouk, van den Berg Brigitte, Vandendriessche Tom, Van Dijck Kris, Van Lanschot Reinier, Van Leeuwen Jessika, Vannacci Roberto, Van Sparrentak Kim, Varaut Alexandre, Vasconcelos Ana, Vasile-Voiculescu Vlad, Vautmans Hilde, Vedrenne Marie-Pierre, Ventola Francesco, Verougstraete Yvan, Veryga Aurelijus, Vicsek Annamária, Vieira Catarina, Vigenin Kristian, Vilimsky Harald, Vincze Loránt, Vind Marianne, Vistisen Anders, Vivaldini Mariateresa, Volgin Petar, von der Schulenburg Michael, Vondra Alexandr, Voss Axel, Vozemberg-Vrionidi Elissavet, Vrecionová Veronika, Vázquez Lázara Adrián, Waitz Thomas, Walsh Maria, Walsmann Marion, Warborn Jörgen, Warnke Jan-Peter, Wąsik Maciej, Wawrykiewicz Michał, Wcisło Marta, Wechsler Andrea, Weimers Charlie, Werbrouck Séverine, Wiesner Emma, Wiezik Michal, Winkler Iuliu, Winzig Angelika, Wiseler-Lima Isabel, Wiśniewska Jadwiga, Wölken Tiemo, Wolters Lara, Yar Lucia, Yon-Courtin Stéphanie, Yoncheva Elena, Zacharia Maria, Zalewska Anna, Žalimas Dainius, Zan Alessandro, Zarzalejos Javier, Zdechovský Tomáš, Zdrojewski Bogdan Andrzej, Zijlstra Auke, Zīle Roberts, Zingaretti Nicola, Złotowski Kosma, Zver Milan

Excused:

Verheyen Sabine

MIL OSI Europe News –

May 8, 2025

MIL-OSI Europe: France: EIB and Groupe BPCE sign an agreement to provide €200 million in support for French agricultural businesses
Source: European Investment Bank
- Through an intermediated loan to the BPCE banking group, this operation will help to finance investments made by small businesses and mid-caps in the farming and bioeconomy sectors in France.
- It will provide special support to young farmers, helping to address one of the most urgent challenges facing the French farming sector.
- This is the first operation signed by the EIB in France as part of the €3 billion package set up in 2024 to support agricultural businesses.
The European Investment Bank (EIB) and the BPCE banking group have signed an agreement to mobilise €200 million in loans for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and mid-caps in the French farming and bioeconomy sectors. This is the first operation that the EIB has signed in France as part of the €3 billion package it approved in 2024 to support businesses in the farming sector.

The particular focus of this operation is to meet the specific needs of young farmers, thus facilitating the creation of new holdings and the takeover of existing ones. It will help to sustain and create jobs in rural communities by encouraging people to stay in those areas. The operation will help residents to purchase and modernise farms and to invest in sustainable technologies.

“We are delighted to sign this agreement with Groupe BPCE. It is the first in France as part of the EIB’s €3 billion package to support agricultural businesses, with an emphasis on young farmers. The aim of this operation is to provide affordable and tailored financing to support the agricultural sector on its path to a more sustainable and resilient future,” said EIB Vice-President Gelsomina Vigliotti, who is responsible for operations in the agricultural sector.

“Thanks to our long-standing partnership with the EIB, we have a credit envelope of €200 million dedicated to the farming and winegrowing sectors. The Banques Populaires and the Caisses d’Epargne will thus be stepping up their support for young farmers, winegrowers and new entrants, encouraging the renewal of generations, which is essential to the vitality of our regions. At the same time, we are committed to supporting projects aimed at accelerating the transition to sustainable agriculture”, added Cédric Glorieux, Director of Products and Solutions, Banque Populaire and Caisse d’Epargne.

Present at the signing of the agreement in Brussels, as part of the conference on the vision for Agriculture and Food organised by the European Commission the european commissioner for agriculture and food Christophe Hansen welcomed the agreement : “”When launching the €3 billion package last December, the European Commission and the EIB set a clear aim: to support the EU’s agricultural priorities by facilitating generational renewal in a sector that encounters various hurdles in access to finance, and driving the ecological transition in rural areas. Today’s signature is a testament to the essential role these funds play in the agriculture and bioeconomy sectors. We remain committed to meeting the needs of our farmers.”

Almost all of this finance will be allocated to projects in regions that fall within the scope of European cohesion and transition programmes. In addition, 30% of the funds will be dedicated to projects helping to promote climate action, efficient water use and biodiversity protection. These projects will involve energy-efficient irrigation systems, solar panel installation, low-carbon machinery, soil regeneration, and sustainable resource management. Thanks to the EIB’s operation, SMEs and mid-caps will be able to access loans with more favourable financing conditions and repayment deadlines that are adapted to the business cycle of their investments.

Background information

EIB

The European Investment Bank is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Built around eight core priorities, we finance investments that contribute to EU policy objectives, by bolstering climate action and the environment, digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, cohesion, agriculture and bioeconomy, social infrastructure, the capital markets union, and a stronger Europe in a more peaceful and prosperous world. The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed nearly €89 billion in new financing for over 900 high-impact projects in 2024, boosting Europe’s competitiveness and security. The EIB Group signed more than 100 operations in France in 2024 for a total amount of €12.6 billion, mobilising €62 billion of investment in the real economy. All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Climate Agreement, as pledged in our Climate Bank Roadmap. Almost 60% of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects directly contributing to climate change mitigation, adaptation, and a healthier environment. Fostering market integration and mobilising investment, the Group supported a record of over €100 billion in new investment for Europe’s energy security in 2024 and unlocked €110 billion in growth capital for startups, scale-ups and European pioneers. Approximately half of the EIB’s financing within the European Union is directed towards cohesion regions, where per capita income is lower than the EU average.

High-quality, up-to-date photos of our headquarters for media use are available here.

Groupe BPCE

Groupe BPCE is the second-largest banking group in France. It employs 100 000 staff serving 35 million customers worldwide – individuals, professionals, companies, investors and local government. It operates in the retail banking and insurance fields in France via its two major networks, Banque Populaire and Caisse d’Epargne, along with Banque Palatine and Oney. It also pursues its activities worldwide with the asset and wealth management services provided by Natixis Investment Managers and the wholesale banking expertise of Natixis Corporate & Investment Banking. The group’s financial strength is recognised by four rating agencies with the following preferred senior long-term ratings: Moody’s (A1, stable outlook), Standard & Poor’s (A+, stable outlook), Fitch (A+, stable outlook) and R&I (A+, stable outlook).
MIL OSI Europe News –
May 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Portugal: EIB provides €400 million loan to Santander to boost financing for SMEs and mid-caps and the agricultural sector
Source: European Investment Bank
- €75 million will go exclusively to the agricultural sector, while €325 million will support small businesses and mid-caps.
The European Investment Bank (EIB) and Santander have signed a €400 million financing operation to boost investment in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and mid-caps, as well as to support the agricultural sector in Portugal. The operation aims to improve access to finance for companies operating in strategic sectors, with a view to accelerating development in the agricultural sector and to supporting cohesion regions.

The operation includes €75 million to be allocated specifically to the agricultural sector under the Pan-European Agricultural Programme. An EIB initiative, this programme aims to strengthen farming and the bioeconomy in Europe, which is one of the EIB’s eight core priorities.

At least 10% of this amount will support young and newly established farmers. The financing will also be available for the purchase of agricultural land. This is the first operation that the EIB has signed under the €3 billion package launched in 2024 to support businesses in the agricultural sector, with a particular focus on companies led by young entrepreneurs.

The remaining €325 million will be used to finance SMEs and mid-caps in Portugal. It is expected that around 60% of this figure will be allocated to cohesion regions, promoting economic development in areas where credit is less accessible, and encouraging businesses to modernise.

“This financing agreement reinforces the EIB’s commitment to sustainable economic growth, ensuring that SMEs and the agricultural sector have access to favourable financing conditions,” said EIB Director-General and Head of Operations Jean-Christophe Laloux. “By supporting young farmers and innovative projects, we are helping to make the Portuguese economy more resilient and competitive.”

Santander Portugal Executive Board Member Amílcar Lourenço added: “It is with great commitment to our companies that we have concluded yet another agreement with the EIB. Every day we work to provide the best solutions for our clients, and we are aware that sustainable investment decisions are crucial for business growth and for Portugal’s development.”

This agreement reinforces the EIB’s commitment to supporting the agricultural sector and economic development, promoting financial inclusion and sustainable growth in Portugal.

To carry out the operation, Santander is issuing debt securities in the form of premium European covered bonds subscribed exclusively by the EIB. In this way, the EIB will provide financing directly to Santander, which in turn will use these resources to support SMEs and mid-caps – including young farmers – thus ensuring better financing conditions.

Background information

The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Built around eight core priorities, we finance investments that contribute to EU policy objectives by bolstering climate action and the environment, digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, cohesion, agriculture and bioeconomy, social infrastructure, high-impact investments outside the European Union and the capital markets union.

The EIB Group, which includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed almost €89 billion in new financing for over 900 high-impact projects in 2024, boosting Europe’s competitiveness and security.

All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Climate Agreement, as pledged in our Climate Bank Roadmap. Almost 60% of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects directly contributing to climate change mitigation, adaptation, and a healthier environment.

Fostering market integration and mobilising investment, the Group supported a record of over €100 billion in new investment for Europe’s energy security in 2024 and mobilised €110 billion in growth capital for startups, scale-ups and European pioneers. Around half of the EIB’s financing within the European Union is directed towards cohesion regions, where per capita income is lower than the EU average.

High-quality, up-to-date photos of our headquarters for media use are available here.

About Santander Portugal

Santander Portugal is a leading bank in the Portuguese financial system, whose mission is to contribute to the development of people and companies. Serving around 3 million customers, Santander’s vision is to be the best open financial services platform, all while acting responsibly and earning the trust of partners, clients, shareholders and society.

Santander is the largest private bank in Portugal in terms of credit granted, with a privileged position in segments such as mortgage and corporate credit, and also in profitability and efficiency, with a return on equity of 32.2% in March 2025. The strength of its balance sheet is reflected in high capital ratios (CET1 of 14.2% in March 2025, above the SREP requirement of 8.4%) and high credit portfolio quality (non-performing exposure ratio of 1.5%).

The bank has been implementing a comprehensive digitalisation strategy, geared towards simplifying processes and innovation, thus providing its clients with a more attentive and personalised service to ensure they have the best possible experience.
MIL OSI Europe News –
May 8, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK and Norway accelerate clean energy opportunities
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Press release

UK and Norway accelerate clean energy opportunities

British workers and businesses will benefit from more investment in the UK’s clean energy future, with a new partnership signed with Norway.
British workers and businesses to benefit from new Green Industrial Partnership with Norway, to unleash clean energy job opportunities

partnership will support clean energy investment in the North Sea, including in green hydrogen and offshore wind, as Energy Secretary meets businesses to make the case for investment in UK

government driving forward with mission to make the UK a clean energy superpower to deliver energy security and protect billpayers

On a visit to Oslo this week, Energy Secretary Ed Miliband secured a Green Industrial Partnership with Norwegian counterparts Ministers Terje Aasland and Cecilie Myrseth and met with Norway’s Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

The Energy Secretary also met a number of energy companies to deepen bilateral relationships and make the case for clean energy investment in Britain. Norway is a crucial ally in securing our energy security, which in turn will deliver clean, secure and cheaper power for British families, whilst securing new clean energy manufacturing jobs through the Plan for Change.

The ambitious partnership enhances the UK and Norway’s longstanding collaboration on energy and is one of the key deliverables of Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s and Norwegian Prime Minister Støre’s over-arching Strategic Partnership.

It focuses on key areas that support the development of renewables. These include offshore wind and grid development, collaboration on the protection of UK and Norwegian offshore infrastructure and reducing barriers to develop a North Sea hub for the cross-border storage of carbon dioxide.

This builds on the government’s aim for the North Sea to be at the heart of Britain’s clean energy future and to drive economic growth.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:

Energy security is national security – and only by working with key partners like Norway can we accelerate clean power that we control, getting us off the rollercoaster of fossil fuels in these unstable times.

Together we can invest in a clean energy future and take advantage of the opportunities ahead in the North Sea, with good clean energy jobs and export opportunities for British business – delivering growth through our Plan for Change.

Norway’s Minister of Energy Terje Aasland said:

Norway and the United Kingdom have a unique relationship in the energy sector, characterized by innovation and close cooperation across the North Sea. I am very pleased that today we are establishing a forward-looking partnership to promote the green transition and further strengthen the collaboration between our two countries.

Minister of Trade and Industry Cecilie Myrseth said:

This agreement is important for Norwegian industry, especially when it comes to securing value chains for raw materials and clean energy. By combining Norwegian and British strengths, we can create jobs, develop new industries, and enhance our competitiveness.

Minister of Climate and Environment, Andreas Bjelland Eriksen said:

A green transition is crucial if we are to meet our climate targets, while also creating new jobs. The partnership with the United Kingdom will strengthen our joint efforts to promote implementation of the Paris Agreement through international climate diplomacy. We will also further develop the close cooperation we have to halt and reverse the deforestation of the rainforest.

It is estimated that the UK’s seas have the potential to store up to 78 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide, which this partnership could help to unlock to support jobs and reduce emissions across Europe.

Research also suggests that closer cooperation on the clean energy transition in the North Seas could lower bills, create up to 51,000 jobs, and add up to £36 billion to the UK economy. By 2030, the North Sea could provide up to 120GW of offshore wind generation, which is enough to power over 120 million homes. This will contribute to the UK and Europe’s energy security in a volatile world, whilst creating significant export opportunities for British business.

Norway is a key energy partner for the UK, and the new partnership builds on decades of collaboration and a mutual commitment to support the development of the UK’s offshore sectors in the North Sea. By working with European partners to transform the North Sea basin into a low carbon and renewables powerhouse, the UK can accelerate the global energy transition and lead efforts to combat climate change on the world stage.

UK and Norwegian companies are already playing an important role in driving the energy transition forward. This includes firms such as Norwegian energy major Equinor which has invested in UK offshore wind, carbon capture, usage and storage (CCUS) and hydrogen, as well as Europe’s biggest renewables generator, Statkraft, a major developer in the UK alongside other Norwegian companies Fred Olsen and Vårgrønn.

This agreement forms part of the UK-Norway Strategic Partnership, covering defence, security, energy and the green transition.

Notes to editors

Full MoU text

Grant Thornton’s independent report on international North Sea cooperation

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Published 8 May 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
May 8, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Lessons in service and humanity from the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement
Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day – 8 May – is a fitting moment to reflect on the immense service given by Red Cross and Red Crescent societies around the world, and by their global umbrella organization, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies – IFRC).

The Red Cross and Red Crescent is arguably the most iconic socially-oriented global brand. Instantly recognizable, it represents first aid, medical and humanitarian support, community service, and unassuming, practical action in the face of crisis.

Like so many others, I grew with this venerable Red Cross brand as part of the fabric of my community, my city and my country. But when I entered the world of disaster risk reduction, my relationship with the Red Cross and Red Crescent deepened as I engaged professionally with the people who make up the movement, working tirelessly for their National Societies all around the world.

In my present role , I have the privilege to work closely with the IFRC and its inspirational Secretary-General, Jagan Chapagain, in steering the UN Secretary-General’s Early Warnings for All Initiative. It is a true privilege to be a partner in this vital undertaking. Fittingly, the IFRC leads the preparedness and response capabilities pillar – drawing on the deep community reach of all the National Societies (UNDRR leads the pillar for disaster risk knowledge; the World Meteorological Organization leads on detection, observation, monitoring, analysis, and forecasting; and the International Telecommunication Union on warning dissemination and communication).

But this is far from my first experience with the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. Over the past three decades, I have worked side by side with Red Cross colleagues in more than two dozen countries, and with every interaction I’ve learnt something new.

As I reflect on these experiences, a flood of memories returns:
- Meeting Red Crescent Society of the Islamic Republic of Iran colleagues immediately after landing in Bam after the 2003 earthquake, and jointly launching IFRC and UN Flash Appeals.
- Collaborating with IFRC colleagues (particularly Madeleen Helmer) during the establishment of the Red Cross Red Crescent Climate Centre.
- Witnessing the birth of the Maldivian Red Crescent Society in the wake of the Indian Ocean Tsunami.
- Supporting colleagues and friends from the Nepal Red Cross Society in developing their DP-Net (Disaster Preparedness Net) – a disaster-preparedness network that paid rich dividends in the aftermath of the 2105 Gorkha earthquake.
- Learning from the volunteers of the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society (BDRCS), who form the bed rock of the country’s Cyclone Preparedness Programme.
- More recently, engaging with the Vanuatu Red Cross Society, on their leading work on post-earthquake school safety in the country’s recovery.
- And just this week, exchanging insights with the President of the Spanish Red Cross, who told me how they mobilized the response to Valencia floods.
Inspiring recent encounters: With Spanish Red Cross President, Maria del Mar Pageo, and with Vanuatu Red Cross President, Moses Stevens, and Vanuatu Red Cross Secretary General, Dickinson Tevi; and with IFRC Pacific Office Head, Finau Leveni.

My experiences are too many to recount them all. But as I reflect on their essence, three core lessons stand out:
1. First, each interaction with the Red Cross is a humbling experience. It is a gentle invitation to step out of policy wonkishness, reminding us what this work is ultimately about: serving communities – and especially the most vulnerable. We must keep returning to this core question: ‘Are we meeting the needs of those we serve?’
2. Second, each interaction is always the same yet different! All National Societies are guided by the same humanitarian principles, yet each is deeply rooted in its own social, cultural, and political context. Their organizers and volunteers come from the communities they serve –giving them a superpower of local engagement and impact.
3. And finally, the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement shows that voices for societal change don’t always have to be shrill. As auxiliary institutions that work alongside governments – but on their own principled terms – Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies are unique. They get a lot done quietly and unassumingly, and as a result can often operate in contexts where most other assistance providers struggle to gain access.
On this World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day, I offer my heartfelt congratulations – and thanks – to all my colleagues and friends in the Movement. I’m deeply grateful for the chance to work alongside you.

MIL OSI United Nations News –
May 8, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Prime Minister’s remarks at the London Defence Conference: 8 May 2025

Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

Speech

Prime Minister’s remarks at the London Defence Conference: 8 May 2025

Prime Minister’s speech at the London Defence Conference this morning.

It is a real privilege to be able to speak to you here today on VE Day.

80 years to the day…

Since an expectant nation turned on the wireless – as of course it was then…

To hear Churchill announce victory in our war against Nazi Germany.

Just imagine it.

Beacons lit across the country…

Bunting up…

People raising their glasses and thanking the bravery of our armed forces…

As we will do today.

And then they came to the streets.

The late Queen Elizabeth II – who was then a young princess of just 19 –

Remembering going unnoticed in the crowds, swept up in a ‘tide of happiness and relief’.

A celebration of defiance…

Of sacrifice…

The courage of that lion-hearted generation…

The greatest victory in the history of this great nation.

A victory not just for Britain.

But for good against the assembled forces of hatred, tyranny and evil…

For the light of our values – in a world that tried to put them out.

And, as you know…

There are people who would happily do likewise today.

Our values and security are confronted on a daily basis.

And we have to rise to this moment.

80 years ago, just round the corner from here, Churchill said…

“We must begin the task of rebuilding…

Do our utmost to make this country a land in which all have a chance…

And in which all have a duty to our countrymen”.

The post-war generation took on that task on with relish.

And we must use this moment…

To do the same.

Deepening our partnerships with allies old and new –

From across Europe to meet the defence challenges of our age…

To the United States…

an indispensable ally for our economic and national security…

As you know, talks with the US have been ongoing – and you’ll hear more about that later today.

But make no mistake – I will always act in our national interest…

For workers, businesses and families…

To deliver security and renewal for our country.

Because the world has changed, decisively.

I mean, I remember – as some of you will also too…

The day the Berlin Wall came down in 1989.

A landmark moment for my generation.

A sense of freedom, of possibility, of peace.

European countries finally free to choose their own future.

I didn’t think then that in my lifetime I would see Russian tanks entering a European country again.

Yet here we are.

And here we stand resolutely…

With the people of Ukraine.

Together with our allies…

Showing the strength of our values…

As well as the value of our strength.

A few weeks ago, I was with the Prime Minister of New Zealand…

To visit our forces delivering Operation INTERFLEX in Wiltshire.

This is a multinational military operation…

That has trained more than 50,000 Ukrainian troops for the frontline.

Men and women who are not soldiers by trade…

Far from it.

They are accountants, they are builders, businesspeople, you name it.

Who stepped up from their lives…

Stepped away from their families…

And, as veterans did eighty years ago…

Answered the call to defend freedom and liberty in their homeland.

And as these brave men and women leave their training in Britain…

And head to the frontline of freedom…

They are applauded by their British trainers.

I’ve seen this a couple of times now – it’s a really humbling sight.

A sign of our support and solidary in their struggle…

Pride and admiration at their courage.

Because in this country we know – this isn’t just a fight for freedom and democracy in Ukraine.

No – it is a new, more dangerous era of history.

A period of global instability…

That fuels insecurity for working people here at home.

The British people have already paid a price for Putin’s aggression in Ukraine, with rising bills and prices.

Russia already menaces our security…

They’ve launched cyber-attacks on our NHS.

Spread disinformation online…

And we cannot forget, just a few years ago – a chemical weapons attack on our streets in Salisbury.

In broad daylight, in the heart of England.

No – the battle lines in Ukraine are the front line for Western values.

And the argument that defines this age is simple…

National security is economic security.

And that is why we are boosting defence spending, with the largest sustained increase since the Cold War…

An increase of £13.4bn year on year compared with where we are today.

Not just meeting our commitment to spend 2.5% of our GDP on defence…

But bringing it forward to 2027.

And, alongside that, a new ambition for defence spending to rise to 3% of GDP in the next Parliament.

But look, I do want to be clear – this investment has two objectives.

Yes of course, the first goal is always the safety and security of the United Kingdom.

But the second is to create jobs, wealth and opportunity in every corner of our country.

Secure at home, strong abroad.

You know – at times like this there is a lot of talk about the end of the peace dividend.

Well, our task now is to seize the defence dividend.

Felt directly in the pockets of working people.

Rebuilding our industrial base.

Creating the jobs of the future.

The skills for the next generation…

From the shipyards in Scotland…

To the missile systems built in Stevenage and Belfast….

The artillery barrels made at Sheffield forgemasters…

And the land vehicle development in Wales…

Mark my words – the British defence industry will be the engine of national renewal.

Because this isn’t just about increasing our defence spending…

It’s also about reform and rebuilding.

And in the coming weeks, we will publish a first-of-its kind, root and branch strategic defence review…

It will scrutinise every aspect of defence – to determine how we can best meet the threats of today…

And return Britain to warfighting readiness.

Alongside our National Security Strategy and our defence industrial strategy…

We will set out a major overhaul of the British Armed Services…

Starting by treating our Armed Forces with the respect that they deserve –

delivering the largest pay rise for over 20 years…

And good homes for service personnel and their families.

But also – the biggest shift in mindset in my lifetime –

To see security and defence…

Not as one priority amongst many others…

But as the central organising principle of government –

The first thought in the morning – the last at night…

The pillar on which everything else stands or falls.

Because – as in 1945…

This has to be a collective endeavour.

A national effort.

A time for the state, business and society to join hands…

In pursuit of the security of the nation…

And the prosperity of its people.

So whether you’re a world-renowned business…

Or a smaller, family-run firm…

You have a vital part to play in boosting Britain’s defences.

That is why we have launched a new unit – to help SMEs get their foot in the door of the defence supply chain.

Because I am clear – the future belongs to the innovators.

Take the announcement made just last week…

StormShroud drones…

Flying as uncrewed guardians to RAF pilots and crew…

Now, for the first time, made in Britain.

An investment that supports hundreds of highly skilled jobs…

Boosting our capabilities for the modern age of drone-based warfare.

Possible – only because of industry and military working together.

Or take the submarines that we’re building in Barrow.

This one is personal for me.

Not just because I was there in Barrow at the keel laying in March –

Not just because I met the workers and the apprentices and saw for myself what it means for them…

And of course the 42,000 jobs it supports up and down the country…

It’s also personal for me because just a few days before that visit…

I went up to the Firth of Clyde, as another boat made in Barrow –

A Vanguard-class submarine…

Was coming in off a record-breaking patrol.

We boarded the sub and met the crew – who had been at sea for months on end.

And meeting those remarkable men and women is something I’ll never forget.

There is no greater duty than the one that they carry –

No task more vital.

Our security…

Nato’s security…

Depends on them.

They are the quiet custodians of the nation’s greatest capability…

Part of an unbroken watch that has been maintained for 55 years.

And in this moment – it’s time for the rest of us to step up and rebuild our country…

Leading the world in the opportunities of the future.

Recently, I visited the Carrier Strike Group off the coast of Cornwall…

And stayed aboard HMS Prince of Wales…

It was frankly humbling to see F35s taking off with just 100metres of deck to take off – and then returning and hovering to land on a sixpence

So imagine how I felt later the very same day when I went to see the apprentices at Rolls Royce…Who had made the engines for those very F35s.

And we need to keep those apprentices busy…

And mark my words – we are going to do that.

With the most ambitious programme of work to secure and rebuild our country since 1945.

Take an example: today, I can announce a £563 million contract to maintain Britain’s fleet of Typhoon fighter jets.

The backbone of Britain’s air defence…

Proudly part of the flypast for VE Day that you may have seen on Monday.

All 130 Typhoons will have their engines maintained by Rolls-Royce…

Supporting hundreds of jobs in Bristol and beyond…

Defending British airspace.

Helping a new generation of service come of age.

And just imagine – what this means for a young apprentice, aged about 18.

Entering into the work force with a good job.

The pride of that work – as a proud I understand from my dad…

Of knowing that what you do, what you make matters.

The pride of following in the footsteps of local families…

Who have been the backbone of their communities for generations.

The grandchildren of the young men who fought on the beaches of Normandy…

Now the submariners on a Vanguard-class submarine.

The descendants of the code breakers at Bletchley…

Now learning the skills to build a new generation of nuclear submarines in Barrow.

And the pride of stepping into our national story…

So those who follow us can say…

We also rose to meet the moment.

We also stood firm against tyranny and oppression.

We also rebuilt Britain – so it serves everyone that serves our country.

Because on VE day 80 years ago…

Politicians of all parties and stripes understood that a people who had sacrificed so much were owed a great debt.

And the truth is – people today are too.

After years of being buffeted about by insecurity and uncertainty…

They are owed the same security…

the same prosperity and peace of mind…

A good home to live in…

A well-paid job with strong rights at work…

An NHS that is there for them when they need it…

all underpinned by the foundation of national security.

A defence dividend – that will be felt in the pockets of working people and the prosperity of the country.

An investment in peace…

But also an investment in British pride and the British people…

To build a nation that, once again, lives up to the promises made to that generation…

Who fought for our values, our freedom and our security.

Thank you very much indeed.

Updates to this page

Published 8 May 2025

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

May 8, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Even as emissions level off, carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is growing faster than ever. Here’s why

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Issy Borley, Research Technician, CSIRO

Quality Stock Arts/Shutterstock

Over the last decade, humanity’s emissions of carbon dioxide (CO₂) have stabilised after a period of huge growth. Average growth is now down to just 0.6% per year, compared to 2% per year in the previous decade. But levelling off isn’t the same as declining – and we’ve levelled off at a very high rate of emissions. The Global Carbon Project estimates human activities released a record high of 10.2 gigatonnes of carbon (GtC) in 2024.

Last year, the atmosphere’s concentration of CO₂ rose at the fastest rate on record. Over the last decade, atmospheric CO₂ increased an average of 2.4 parts per million (ppm) a year. But last year, concentrations jumped by 3.5 ppm, reaching 424 ppm in the atmosphere. These concentrations are more than 50% higher than the pre-industrial period.

While we’re burning more fossil fuels than ever, recent emissions growth has been offset by falling rates of deforestation and other land use emissions.

Why are CO₂ concentrations still rapidly increasing? We’re still pumping massive amounts of long-buried CO₂ into our atmosphere. The only way for this carbon to leave the atmosphere is through natural carbon sinks – and they’re struggling to keep up.

How do we know the amount of CO₂ in the atmosphere?

Perched on a remote and windy clifftop on Tasmania’s northwest tip lies the Kennaook/Cape Grim Baseline Air Pollution Station. This station has an important job: monitoring baseline changes in atmospheric gases. The location was chosen because air here has travelled hundreds of kilometres over the ocean in an area unaffected by local pollution.

CSIRO’s Kennaook/Cape Grim monitoring station on Tasmania’s northwestern tip was chosen because of the clean ocean air.
Issy Borley, CC BY-NC-ND

For decades, Australian scientists have directly measured the changes to the atmosphere here. Alongside other monitoring stations worldwide, this gives us an accurate and precise record of changes in greenhouse gases and ozone depleting chemicals in the atmosphere.

Filling the bathtub

Carbon dioxide is very good at trapping heat. Over the Earth’s 4.5 billion years, pulses of CO₂ have created hothouse worlds, very different to the pleasant climate humans have enjoyed since the last ice age, about 11,000 years ago. The last time CO₂ went past 400 ppm was likely more than two million years ago.

It’s easy to confuse CO₂ emissions and concentrations of CO₂ in the atmosphere. Emissions influence atmospheric concentrations, but they are not the same.

Releasing long-buried carbon back into the atmosphere by burning fossil fuels and producing CO₂ emissions is like turning on the tap in a bathtub and the amount of water in the tub is the atmospheric concentration.

The Earth has natural ways of dealing with carbon dioxide. Plants, soils and oceans are carbon “sinks” – they all draw down carbon from the atmosphere and store it. Think of them as the bath’s plughole.

If we think of the atmosphere as a bathtub, our emissions are the tap turned on, natural carbon sinks are the plughole and the water in the bath are the atmospheric CO₂ levels.
Issy Borley, CC BY-NC-ND

The problem is, we’re filling up the tub with CO₂ much faster than the Earth’s carbon sinks can pull them out. As a result, CO₂ concentration in the atmosphere rises. Atmospheric CO₂ matters because it is what actually influences climate.

If we apply current global emissions and scenarios where emissions decrease either steadily or rapidly to the CSIRO Simple Carbon-Climate Model, we can estimate how much our bathtub is likely to fill. These graphs show emissions must be significantly cut before we can start to see a fall in atmospheric concentration.

Why did CO₂ concentration jump last year?

The single largest influence in last year’s spike in CO₂ concentration is likely to be changes to carbon sinks.

Every year, oceans, forests and soils absorb about half the emissions humans produce. But this figure isn’t set – it changes as the Earth’s systems change.

For instance, plants grow more in wetter years and store more carbon in their structures through photosynthesis and growth.

But climate change is making fires more intense and more frequent. As trees burn, they release stored carbon back to the atmosphere. Emissions from enormous wildfires in Canada in 2023 and South America in 2024 likely contributed to the atmospheric CO₂ jump.

Recent research suggests a weakened biosphere has strongly contributed. Severe droughts across the northern hemisphere in 2024 cut the ability of the planet’s soils and plant life to soak up and store CO₂.

The speed at which carbon sinks soak up CO₂ depends on environmental conditions, which are largely out of our control. As climate change worsens, the capacity of natural carbon sinks to draw down our emissions will likely reduce.

In the bathtub analogy, water leaves the tub through the plughole. If the plughole narrows, less water can escape and our tub will fill up even faster.

The main lever we can control is the tap on the bathtub – the emissions we produce. Many nations are now cutting their emissions, but not enough to begin the sharp decline in concentration we need.

In the 1980s, the Earth’s thin, protective layer of ozone – just 10 parts per million – was being eaten away by chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and other chemicals in fridges, air conditioners and aerosol cans. Nations replaced these chemicals and the ozone hole began to close. Fossil fuels are far more important to our current way of life than CFCs were. But we now have good options to replace them across many industries.

This is a crucial moment. Our current rate of emissions will only cause CO₂ concentrations and global temperatures to rise. Natural carbon sinks will not pull out enough carbon to stabilise our climate on a time frame meaningful to humans. The earlier the action and decrease in emissions, the better our future.

Issy Borley receives funding from the Australian Bureau of Meteorology.

Cathy Trudinger 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.

Ray Langenfelds receives funding from the Australian Bureau of Meteorology.

– ref. Even as emissions level off, carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is growing faster than ever. Here’s why – https://theconversation.com/even-as-emissions-level-off-carbon-dioxide-in-the-atmosphere-is-growing-faster-than-ever-heres-why-254072

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

May 8, 2025

Category: Climate Change

An evolving science

Synthesising more than 1,300 studies

A tool for conservation

Oilsands booster

Generous emissions caps

Weaponizing myths

USDA Application Process for Weather-Based Disaster Aid to Begin in Coming Weeks

Golden age

Texture

Key Points:

Other Highlights:

Temperature

Precipitation

Drought

Monthly Outlook

Oilsands booster

Generous emissions caps

Weaponizing myths

UK and Norway accelerate clean energy opportunities

Notes to editors

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Updates to this page

Prime Minister’s remarks at the London Defence Conference: 8 May 2025

Updates to this page

How do we know the amount of CO₂ in the atmosphere?

Filling the bathtub

Why did CO₂ concentration jump last year?