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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to unpublished conference abstract suggesting eating rate has sustained effects on energy intake from Ultra-Processed Diets

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A conference abstract presented at NUTRITION 2025 looks at eating rate and its effects on energy intake from Ultra-Processed Diets. 

    Dr Amanda Avery, Associate Professor in Nutrition and Dietetics, University of Nottingham, said:

    “This very well considered study explores whether eating rate can make a difference to the amount of food we eat. Previous research has suggested that a 20% difference in eating rate leads to a 9-15% difference in food intake.

    “In this study, the abstract being showcased at the American Nutrition conference,  the researchers used two different diets using commercially prepared ultra processed foods (UPFs). One diet used UPFs with textures that meant that eating rate was slower whilst the second diet used UPFs with textures leading to faster eating rates.

    “Healthy young adults, both males and females with healthy body weights were invited to take part in the study where they were then randomised to be in one ‘block’ or the second block for assignment to the diet. They were not aware which diet they were consuming when – they had one diet for two weeks, then had a two week ‘rest’ and then had the second diet for two weeks. This means that we can compare the results between individuals besides between the two groups.

    “The participants were offered as much food as they wanted when on either of the two diets. Incredibly, but perhaps not surprisingly, the findings on energy intake were consistent – all participants consumed less energy from food when on the two week UPF – slow eating rate diet. The average energy intake was 369kcal/day less when people were following the slow eating rate diet.

    “Whilst there were no significant differences in body weight, this is not surprising given that the study was only being conducted for a two-week period and because participants were switched from one diet to another. However if a person was choosing a diet which led to an extra 350+kcal being consumed each day, then one could expect to see associated increases in body weight over time. 

    “As mentioned, the study was well conducted with many reasons as to why participants may not be able to take part in the study. The researchers were keen to exclude anyone who had strict control over their food intake and also those people who were intentionally trying to reduce their body weight – thus other factors that may have contributed to the findings were limited in the study design.

    “In terms of what this study adds – the study really reinforces the importance of people sitting down and taking time to enjoy their food. Eating foods quickly and ‘on the hoof’ may lead to extra energy intake which may long-term lead to weight gain. Ideally, we should be choosing foods with more texture, such as ultra-processed foods with more texture, but also balanced with vegetables, whole fruits, wholegrain cereals, beans, legumes, lean meat, fish, so that we have to chew the food. As this study has found, food with very little texture, such as certain UPFs, may lead to excess energy intake which over time may increase the risk of obesity, as demonstrated by other studies that have compared the intake of ultra processed with more minimally processed foods.”

     

    Professor Julian Hamilton-Shield, Professor in Diabetes and Metabolic Endocrinology, University of Bristol, said:

    “This study reinforces previous epidemiological, experimental and clinical trial data demonstrating that any manoeuvre to slow eating rate consistently, in this current study by meal texture, reduces an individual’s total calorie intake. Whilst it can be difficult to sustain a reduced eating speed, altering food texture that slows eating speed seems an attractive additional tool for population-based, weight management strategies.”  

    The abstract ‘Eating Rate has Sustained Effects on Energy Intake from Ultra-Processed Diets: A Two-Week Ad Libitum Dietary Randomized Controlled Trial’ by Ciarán G. Forde et al. was presented at the NUTRITION 2025 conference, and the embargo lifted at 19:00 UK time Monday 2 June 2025.

    Declared interests

    Professor Julian Hamilton-Shield: I have conducted experimental and trial studies on slowing eating speed by different methodology, finding results for calorie intake in agreement with the study being described

    Dr Amanda Avery: besides my academic position, I also hold a very part-time position as Consultant dietitian in Nutrition, Research & Health Policy at Slimming World.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Executive Board Concludes 2025 Article IV Consultation with Cyprus

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    June 2, 2025

    • Growth is expected to decelerate to 2.5 percent in 2025 and stabilize at 3 percent in the medium term as Cyprus shifts towards more investment-driven growth.
    • The fiscal surplus reached an impressive 4.3 percent of GDP in 2024, while public debt declined to 65 percent of GDP. Fiscal policy should continue to prioritize debt reduction to further build buffers against potential shocks.
    • The banking sector boasts substantial capital and liquidity buffers, with financial risks appearing well-contained. The recent tightening of the macroprudential policy stance, will further enhance these financial buffers.

    Washington, DC: The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) completed the Article IV Consultation for Cyprus and endorsed the staff appraisal without a meeting.[1] The authorities have consented to the publication of the Staff Report prepared for this consultation.[2]

    In 2024, Cyprus’s growth accelerated to 3.4 percent—one of the highest rates in the euro area (EA)—driven by a strong tourism season, continued Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector expansion, and robust public and private consumption. While inflation has remained volatile, it has generally decreased, with headline inflation falling to 2.1 percent by March 2025. Fiscal performance continues to be very strong, with the fiscal surplus increasing to 4.3 percent of GDP in 2024, supported by robust tax revenues. As a result, public debt has declined to 65 percent of GDP by the end of 2024, while cash buffers remain large. Financial conditions remain tight, accompanied by subdued credit growth. Nevertheless, the banking sector possesses sizable capital and liquidity buffers, and overall banking sector risks appear contained.

    Growth is expected to moderate to 2.5 percent in 2025 before reaching 3 percent in the medium term, driven by higher investment and structural reforms. Inflation is anticipated to hit the 2 percent target later this year, supported by moderating growth and lower oil prices. Near-term risks are tilted to the downside, including from elevated uncertainty from global trade tensions. In contrast, longer-term risks are more balanced, with risks on insufficient progress on structural reforms acting against the upside potential of Cyprus’s evolving business model.

    Executive Board Assessment

    In concluding the 2025 Article IV consultation with Cyprus, Executive Directors endorsed staff’s appraisal, as follows:

    Cyprus has demonstrated remarkable economic resilience, with growth among the highest in the EA. This strong performance is underpinned by robust service exports and domestic consumption. The labor market remains tight, characterized by a declining unemployment rate and elevated job vacancy levels. While uncertainties persist, there are indications of potential overheating in the economy. This, along with tariff-related trade disruption, will lead growth to moderate this year. While volatile, inflation is projected to stabilize around 2 percent by the end of the year. The current account deficit is estimated to have moderated in 2024, but the external position is assessed to be weaker than the level implied by fundamentals.

    The immediate outlook presents downside risks, while longer-term risks appear more balanced. An escalation of trade conflicts—particularly if this broadened to include services trade and FDI—poses an important downside risk. An escalation of regional tensions, and possible new energy price shocks, could affect FDI, tourism, and inflation. Domestically, there are concerns about further overheating, which may arise from a more accommodative fiscal policy. In the medium-to-long term, investment-driven growth will rely on continuous progress in structural reforms. On the upside, Cyprus’s agile and dynamic economy offers substantial potential for growth.

    Cyprus’s strong fiscal position has reduced vulnerabilities. In 2024, the primary fiscal surplus reached 5.6 percent, fueled by significant revenue growth that more than compensated for increased public wages and social transfers. As a result, public debt decreased to 65 percent of GDP by the end of 2024, with substantial cash reserves supporting liquidity. This further increased resilience, built policy space for future shocks, and improved investor sentiment.

    Fiscal policy should continue to prioritize debt reduction. Given overheating risks, it is crucial to avoid new discretionary measures that would ease fiscal policy and add to inflationary pressures. Instead, efforts should focus on reducing debt well below 60 percent of GDP, thereby ensuring a robust buffer against potential shocks. The authorities’ commitment to maintaining fiscal surpluses through 2028, as specified in the MTFSP under the new EU economic governance framework, supports this goal.

    As spending pressures increase, careful management of fiscal space is essential. The financial commitments required for achieving climate and digital transitions will persist beyond the end of EU RRP funding. Additionally, an aging population will necessitate higher expenditures on pensions and healthcare, alongside other long-term expenditures. As a result, the scope for fiscal loosening in the medium term is constrained.

    Public spending should emphasize investment while retaining flexibility in response to economic shocks. Capital expenditures should take precedence to enhance potential growth and facilitate the climate transition. At the same time, expanding current spending—such as increasing public wages, broadening subsidies, or introducing untargeted social programs—should be avoided. Specifically, the authorities should resist further increases to the COLA indexation or new ad-hoc salary increases to contain the existing substantial public-private wage gap and prevent additional pressure on real wage growth.

    The banking sector boasts substantial capital and liquidity buffers, with financial risks appearing well-contained. Profitability metrics have reached record highs for the second consecutive year, and capitalization levels are now among the highest in Europe. Despite elevated interest rates, asset quality continues to improve, supported by strong economic growth. Nonetheless, ongoing vigilance is essential, particularly concerning the real estate sector.

    Recent tightening of the macroprudential policy stance will enhance financial buffers further. The announced increase in the CCyB will bolster resilience by securing already high capital buffers without adversely affecting credit availability or economic growth. In the future, careful calibration of macroprudential policies should continue to strike a balance between financial stability and effective credit intermediation.

    Although legacy NPLs continue to decrease, they remain at elevated levels. Most NPLs have been successfully transitioned away from the banking sector and do not pose a significant issue for financial stability. The ongoing resolution of legacy NPLs is expected to accelerate, given the full operationalization of the foreclosure framework and a strong uptake of the mortgage-to-rent scheme. Resolving legacy NPLs is expected to help mobilize domestic capital.

    Structural reforms aimed at enhancing judicial efficiency and boosting labor productivity are vital for fostering long-term growth. With employment levels already high, capital deepening will increasingly drive growth. Consequently, policies must create a stable and streamlined business environment conducive to investment. Additional efforts are required in the judicial sector to strengthen the institutional framework for insolvency and creditor rights and to improve court efficiency. Labor policies should focus on addressing skill gaps and mismatches and engaging remaining segments of the labor force, particularly among youth and the long-term unemployed.

    Key energy projects and reforms must be expedited to reduce energy costs, enhance energy security, and fulfill climate commitments. Completing the LNG terminal and improving electricity interconnectedness would represent significant progress toward these objectives. Additionally, increasing competition in the electricity market would help lower costs and emissions through market forces. The planned introduction of green taxation would further facilitate the energy transition.

    Maintaining a strong AML framework is vital for mitigating reputational risks and business uncertainty. Ongoing efforts to broaden the definition of obliged entities for AML supervision are commendable. Furthermore, the proposed establishment of the National Sanctions Implementation Unit at the Ministry of Finance will enhance clarity for reporting entities regarding compliance with sanctions.

    Table 1. Cyprus: Selected Economic Indicators, 2021–2030

     

    2021

    2022

    2023

    2024

    2025

    2026

    2027

    2028

    2029

    2030

     

     

     

     

     

    Projections

    Real Economy

    (Percent change, unless otherwise indicated)

       Real GDP

    11.4

    7.2

    2.8

    3.4

    2.5

    2.7

    3.0

    3.0

    3.0

    3.0

     Domestic demand

    5.6

    8.5

    5.2

    0.7

    4.6

    3.6

    3.6

    3.5

    3.4

    3.2

       Consumption

    5.7

    8.5

    4.8

    3.3

    3.2

    2.6

    2.8

    2.9

    2.8

    2.8

         Private consumption

    4.7

    9.8

    5.9

    3.8

    2.8

    2.9

    3.2

    3.2

    3.2

    3.1

         Public consumption

    8.9

    4.7

    1.2

    1.5

    4.4

    1.4

    1.2

    1.7

    1.7

    1.7

    Gross capital formation

    5.0

    8.5

    6.6

    -9.5

    10.5

    7.8

    7.0

    6.0

    5.5

    4.5

     Foreign balance 1/

    5.8

    -1.1

    -2.3

    3.0

    -1.9

    -0.9

    -0.7

    -0.5

    -0.4

    -0.3

       Exports of goods and services

    27.2

    27.1

    -2.8

    5.3

    4.0

    4.1

    4.0

    4.0

    4.0

    4.0

       Imports of goods and services

    19.6

    29.7

    -0.7

    2.4

    6.1

    5.1

    4.6

    4.5

    4.4

    4.2

    Potential GDP growth

    5.5

    6.1

    4.4

    3.3

    3.0

    2.9

    2.9

    3.0

    3.0

    3.0

    Output gap (percent of potential GDP)

    0.9

    2.0

    0.4

    0.6

    0.2

    -0.1

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    HICP (period average, seasonally-adjusted)

    2.3

    8.1

    3.9

    2.3

    2.2

    2.0

    2.0

    2.0

    2.0

    2.0

    HICP (end of period, seasonally-adjusted)

    4.8

    7.6

    1.9

    3.1

    2.0

    2.0

    2.0

    2.0

    2.0

    2.0

    GDP deflator

    3.0

    6.7

    3.8

    3.5

    4.7

    1.6

    1.5

    1.5

    1.5

    1.6

    Unemployment rate (percent, period average)

    7.2

    6.3

    5.8

    4.9

    4.8

    5.0

    5.0

    5.0

    5.0

    5.0

    Employment growth (percent, period average)

    3.5

    5.0

    2.8

    1.5

    0.9

    0.8

    0.9

    0.8

    0.8

    0.8

    Labor force

    3.0

    4.0

    2.3

    0.4

    0.8

    1.0

    0.9

    0.8

    0.8

    0.8

    Public Finance

    (Percent of GDP, unless otherwise indicated)

       General government balance

    -1.6

    2.7

    1.7

    4.3

    3.8

    3.5

    2.4

    2.1

    1.9

    1.6

          Revenue

    41.0

    40.6

    43.7

    44.3

    44.7

    44.3

    43.3

    43.2

    43.2

    43.2

          Expenditure

    42.6

    38.0

    42.0

    40.0

    40.9

    40.8

    40.8

    41.1

    41.4

    41.6

       Primary Fiscal Balance

    0.1

    4.0

    3.0

    5.6

    5.2

    4.8

    3.8

    3.4

    3.1

    2.9

       General government debt

    96.5

    81.1

    73.6

    65.1

    60.2

    54.9

    49.7

    44.5

    41.2

    38.3

    Balance of Payments

       Current account balance

    -5.4

    -5.4

    -9.7

    -6.1

    -7.1

    -7.7

    -8.2

    -8.7

    -9.1

    -9.4

          Trade Balance (goods and services)

    4.7

    3.6

    1.0

    3.6

    2.5

    1.8

    1.1

    0.5

    0.2

    0.0

             Exports of goods and services

    90.8

    105.6

    97.2

    96.7

    95.8

    97.4

    98.4

    99.5

    100.5

    101.5

             Imports of goods and services

    86.1

    102.0

    96.1

    93.1

    93.2

    95.6

    97.3

    98.9

    100.3

    101.6

          Goods balance

    -16.9

    -19.7

    -23.7

    -20.4

    -20.4

    -21.4

    -22.4

    -23.3

    -24.2

    -24.9

          Services balance

    21.6

    23.3

    24.7

    24.0

    22.9

    23.2

    23.5

    23.9

    24.4

    24.9

          Primary income, net

    -8.9

    -7.9

    -9.6

    -8.9

    -8.6

    -8.5

    -8.4

    -8.3

    -8.3

    -8.3

          Secondary income, net

    -1.2

    -0.7

    -1.1

    -0.8

    -1.0

    -1.0

    -1.0

    -1.0

    -1.0

    -1.0

    Capital account, net

    0.2

    0.1

    -0.1

    0.2

    0.2

    0.2

    0.1

    0.1

    0.1

    0.1

    Financial account, net

    -7.6

    -6.2

    -8.7

    -5.9

    -6.9

    -7.5

    -8.2

    -8.6

    -9.1

    -9.3

       Direct investment

    -3.3

    -27.2

    -21.0

    -18.0

    -18.0

    -18.1

    -18.3

    -18.3

    -18.5

    -18.6

       Portfolio investment

    3.9

    3.9

    11.0

    4.9

    5.8

    3.6

    4.2

    3.5

    1.5

    2.6

       Other investment and financial derivatives

    -9.6

    16.8

    1.2

    7.2

    5.3

    7.0

    5.9

    6.2

    7.9

    6.7

       Reserves ( + accumulation)

    1.4

    0.3

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    Program financing 2/

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    -1.0

    -2.7

    -2.5

    -2.4

    -2.4

    -2.0

    Errors and omissions

    -2.5

    -0.9

    1.1

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    Saving-Investment Balance

    National saving

    13.8

    14.9

    11.8

    14.4

    13.7

    13.6

    13.4

    13.3

    13.2

    13.1

      Government

    1.8

    5.8

    6.7

    7.9

    7.8

    7.3

    6.3

    6.1

    6.1

    5.8

      Non-government

    12.0

    9.0

    5.1

    6.5

    5.9

    6.3

    7.1

    7.2

    7.1

    7.3

    Gross capital formation

    19.2

    20.3

    21.4

    20.5

    20.8

    21.3

    21.7

    22.1

    22.4

    22.5

      Government

    3.5

    3.2

    5.0

    3.6

    3.9

    3.8

    3.9

    4.1

    4.2

    4.2

      Private

    15.8

    17.1

    16.4

    16.9

    16.9

    17.4

    17.7

    18.0

    18.1

    18.2

    Foreign saving

    -5.4

    -5.4

    -9.7

    -6.1

    -7.1

    -7.7

    -8.2

    -8.7

    -9.1

    -9.4

    Memorandum Item:

       Nominal GDP (billions of euros)

    25.7

    29.4

    31.3

    33.6

    36.0

    37.6

    39.3

    41.1

    42.9

    44.9

       Structural primary balance

    -0.4

    3.3

    2.6

    5.3

    5.2

    4.8

    3.8

    3.4

    3.1

    2.9

    External debt

    994.1

    879.7

    828.3

    767.6

    706.8

    669.0

    631.4

    595.8

    564.1

    534.0

    Net IIP

    -105.7

    -95.2

    -92.7

    -98.5

    -99.3

    -102.6

    -106.9

    -111.7

    -114.6

    -118.8

    Sources: Cystat, Eurostat, Central Bank of Cyprus, and IMF staff estimates.

    1/ Contribution to real GDP growth

    2/  Program financing (+ purchases, – repurchases) is included under the Financial Account, with consistent sign conversion

    [1] Under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, the IMF holds bilateral discussions with members, usually every year. A staff team visits the country, collects economic and financial information, and discusses with officials the country’s economic developments and policies. On return to headquarters, the staff prepares a report, which forms the basis for discussion by the Executive Board. The Executive Board takes decisions under its lapse-of-time procedure when the Board agrees that a proposal can be considered without convening formal discussions.

    [2] Under the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, publication of documents that pertain to member countries is voluntary and requires the member consent. The staff report will be shortly published on the www.imf.org/cyprus page.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Boris Balabanov

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/06/02/pr-25171-cyprus-imf-concludes-2025-art-iv-consultation

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: What are Canada’s governing Liberals going to do about AI?

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Jake Pitre, PhD Candidate in Film & Moving Image Studies, Concordia University

    Fresh off his election victory, Prime Minister Mark Carney has been focused on standing up to Donald Trump’s claims on Canada as the 51st state and American tariffs. But while that political drama unfolds, one topic that seems to have quietly slipped under the radar is the rise of artificial intelligence.

    Despite its transformative impact on everything from jobs to national security, AI received surprisingly little attention during the campaign and in the first weeks following Carney’s victory. The consequences of that lack of attention are already starting to show, as emissions and electricity costs continue unabated without a clear vision of where AI fits in.



    Read more:
    Anxious over AI? One way to cope is by building your uniquely human skills

    Although Carney has appointed former journalist Evan Solomon as Canada’s first-ever AI minister, it’s not yet clear what action the Liberal government plans to take on AI.

    The Liberals’ “Canada Strong” plan outlining the prime minister’s proposals is scarce on details. Still, it provides some clues on how the Liberals see AI and what they believe it offers to the Canadian economy — and also what they seem to have misunderstood.

    Economy of the future?

    First, the plan includes some robust initiatives for improving Canada’s digital infrastructure, which lags behind other leading countries, especially in terms of rural broadband and reliable cell service.

    To accomplish these goals, the Liberals say they’ll incentivize investment by “introducing flow-through shares to our Canadian startup ecosystem…to raise money faster” for AI and other technologies.

    In other words, they will reuse the model of mining and oil companies whereby investors can claim a tax deduction for the same amount as their investment. A major question is whether Canada’s investment ecosystem has enough big players willing to take these risks.

    The plan gets less promising as it comes to the implementation of AI within “the economy of tomorrow.”

    The Liberals say they plan to build more data centres, improve computing capacity and create digital supply chain solutions “to improve efficiency and reduce costs for Canadians.”

    All that that sounds OK — so far. But how will they do this?

    Connecting AI with Armed Forces

    The Liberals plan to establish the Bureau of Research, Engineering and Advanced Leadership in Science (BOREALIS), linking AI development directly to the Canadian Armed Forces and the Communications Security Establishment Canada, which provides the federal government with information technology security and foreign signals intelligence.

    This approach to AI is focused on what it offers to Canada’s defence, whether by manufacturing semiconductors or improving intelligence gathering, so that it can rely less on the U.S. Similarly, Canadian defence tech firms will access funding to help reduce dependence on American suppliers and networks.

    The Liberals are pledging sovereignty and autonomy for Canada’s defence and security, all enabled by “the construction and development of AI infrastructure.”

    What goes unsaid is the intense power needs of data centres, and the consequences for emissions and climate action of “building the next generation of data centres” in Canada.

    Climate concerns

    New data centres cannot be built without also constructing more renewable energy infrastructure, and none of this addresses emissions or climate change.

    If the centres crop up in big numbers as planned, Canadians could also see their electricity costs go up or become less reliable.

    That’s because finding space within the existing grid is not as easy as it may sound when AI data centres require over 100 megawatts (MW) of electricity demand versus five to 10 MW for a regular centre.

    With the rapidly evolving market for AI-based data centres, Canadian policymakers need to provide clear guidance to utilities in terms of their current decisions on competing industrial-scale demands. As the Canadian Climate Institute points out: “Anything less risks higher rates, increased emissions, missed economic opportunities — or all of the above.”

    So far, the Liberal plan fails to address any of these concerns.

    A Canadian department of efficiency?

    What else does the “economy of tomorrow” hold?

    Apparently, it means more efficient government. According to the Liberal plan, AI “is how government improves service delivery, it is how government keeps up with the speed of business, and it is how government maximizes efficiency and reduces cost.”

    Despite otherwise clashing with the Trump administration, this language is reminiscent of Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which has also centred its use of AI.



    Read more:
    DOGE’s AI surveillance risks silencing whistleblowers and weakening democracy

    The Liberals will open an Office of Digital Transformation, which aims to get rid of red tape and “reduce barriers for businesses to operate in Canada.”

    They don’t seem to really know what this would actually look like, however. They say: “This could mean using AI to address government service backlogs and improve service delivery times, so that Canadians get better services, faster.”

    Their fiscal plan points out that this frame of thinking applies to every single expenditure: “We will look at every new dollar being spent through the lens of how AI and technology can improve service and reduce costs.”

    The economy will also benefit, the government argues, from AI commercialization, with $46 million pegged over the next four years to connect AI researchers with businesses.

    This would work alongside a tax credit for small and medium-sized businesses to “leverage AI to boost their bottom lines, create jobs, and support existing employees.”

    But a new report by Orgvue, the organizational design and planning software platform, shows that over half of businesses that rushed to impose AI just ended up making their employees redundant without clear gains in productivity.

    Creating a tax credit for smaller companies to introduce AI seems like a recipe for repeating the same mistake.

    Protect Canadians with good AI policy

    Much of the Liberal plan seems to involve taking risks. There’s a shortsightedness on this rapidly advancing technology that requires significant guardrails.

    The government seem to view AI as a solutions machine, buying into the hype around it without taking the time to understand it.

    As policy is properly hashed out in the weeks and months to come, the Liberals’ feet will have to be held to the fire on the issue of AI. Canadians must benefit from its limited uses and be protected from its abuses.

    Jake Pitre 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. What are Canada’s governing Liberals going to do about AI? – https://theconversation.com/what-are-canadas-governing-liberals-going-to-do-about-ai-257537

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt on why the Senate must pass the One Big Beautiful Bill.

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

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

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Plymouth means business at UKREiiF 2025

    Source: City of Plymouth

    By Cllr Tudor Evans, Leader of Plymouth City Council

    This May, I had the privilege of leading Plymouth’s delegation to the UK Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF) in Leeds – and what a week it was.

    We went to UKREiiF with a clear purpose: to shout loud and proud about Plymouth’s ambition, our potential, and our readiness for growth. We weren’t just there to attend – we were there to lead, to connect, and to inspire. Because for Plymouth, growth isn’t just a buzzword. It’s a necessity. It’s about jobs, homes, innovation, and opportunity. It’s about building a city that works for everyone.

    From the moment we arrived, the energy was electric. Day one kicked off with a bang – our stand was buzzing with interest, and we hit the ground running with meetings, networking, and a strong presence across the event. We were there alongside major cities and regions, but we made sure Plymouth’s voice was heard. We’re not just a coastal city – we’re a city of ideas, of resilience, and of bold ambition.

    One of the highlights was our panel session, where we brought together key voices to talk about the future of cities like ours. We spoke about the power of place, the importance of sustainable development, and the need for long-term investment in infrastructure and skills. I was proud to see Plymouth leading that conversation – not just reacting to change, but shaping it.

    Throughout the week, we met with investors, developers, government officials, and partners from across the UK. We showcased our major regeneration opportunities – from the Freeport and Oceansgate to the city centre and waterfront. We talked about our strengths in marine, defence, digital, and clean energy. And we made it clear: Plymouth is open for business.But UKREiiF wasn’t just about promotion – it was about connection.

    It was about building relationships that will unlock real benefits for our city. We had meaningful conversations that we’re already following up on – conversations that could lead to new investment, new jobs, and new opportunities for our residents.

    For example, we had a fantastic conversation with Homes England. Earlier this year, we launched a bold new plan together to deliver up to 10,000 new homes in the heart of Plymouth. This isn’t just about numbers – it’s about creating a vibrant, liveable city centre that supports our growing workforce and attracts new talent. At UKREiiF, we built on this momentum with strategic conversations about other key sites.

    Marcus Ralling from Homes England was clear: Plymouth offers one of the most compelling investment stories in the country. With the right partners, we can deliver high-quality homes, strong returns, and transformational change. This partnership is already bearing fruit – and it’s only just beginning.

    What struck me most was the shared sense of purpose in all our conversations. Across the country, councils are grappling with similar challenges – housing, climate change, economic resilience. But there was also a shared optimism. A belief that with the right partnerships, the right vision, and the right leadership, we can build better places. And Plymouth is absolutely part of that story.

    So what do we hope to get out of it? Tangible outcomes. We want to see investment flow into our city. We want to accelerate delivery of key projects. We want to bring partners on board who share our vision for inclusive, sustainable growth. And we want to keep raising Plymouth’s profile – nationally and internationally – as a city that’s going places.

    UKREiiF 2025 was a milestone for us. It showed that Plymouth belongs on the national stage. It showed that we have the ambition, the assets, and the leadership to drive real change. And it reminded me – once again – why I’m so proud to lead this city.

    Growth matters. Not for its own sake, but because of what it means for people. For families looking for a decent home. For young people seeking opportunity. For businesses ready to expand. For communities that deserve investment and pride in place.

    Plymouth is ready. And we’re just getting started.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: $21.6M Awarded to Support NY Dairy Farms

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced nearly $21.6 million has been awarded to 103 farms across the state through the Dairy Modernization Grant Program to support New York’s dairy industry. The funding, first announced in the Governor’s 2024 State of the State address, will help New York’s dairy farmers and dairy cooperatives invest in new equipment, expand storage capacity, and strengthen their operations, particularly as they face extreme weather events, providing a critical boost to New York’s dairy industry. The announcement comes as the State officially kicks off the celebration of Dairy Month this June.

    “New York’s dairy industry is the backbone of our agricultural economy, supporting thousands of jobs across our rural communities,” Governor Hochul said. “With this $26 million investment through the Dairy Modernization Grant Program, we’re giving hardworking dairy farmers and cooperatives the tools they need to grow, innovate and lead in a changing market. This is how we honor our agricultural legacy — by making sure it has a strong and sustainable future.”

    The awards were announced this morning at a special event at Glory Days Farm, a 120-cow dairy farm in Lowville, Lewis County. New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball was joined by partners from the Farm and Food Growth Fund (FFGF), who administer this grant program on behalf of the Department, in addition to other North Country dairy farm awardees, Lowville Producers Dairy Cooperative Inc., New York Farm Bureau, Cornell Cooperative Extension, the Lewis County Soil and Water Conservation District, and elected officials to celebrate these awardees.

    As part of the program, Glory Days Farm, a New York State Grown & Certified participant, will now be able to install new equipment needed on the farm, including a 3,000-gallon bulk tank, washer, two new compressors, and a permanent generator to maintain power supply in the event of extreme weather. The project will improve storage capacity, which will prevent dumped milk and provide a cost savings to Glory Days Farm by allowing them to move to every-other-day milk pickup and reducing stop and hauling costs. New cooling technology will help the farm save energy and ensure milk quality, while the on-demand generator will allow for milk transfer in the event of disruptions.

    A regional breakdown of the awards made across the State is listed below. A complete list of projects awarded for a total of $21.57 million can be found here.

    • Capital Region: nine farms were awarded a total of nearly $1.8 million.
    • Central New York: 18 farms were awarded a total of more than $3.9 million.
    • Finger Lakes: 20 farms were awarded a total of more than $4.3 million.
    • Mid-Hudson: One farm was awarded more than $147,000.
    • Mohawk Valley: 11 farms were awarded a total of more than $2.1 million.
    • North Country: 15 farms were awarded a total of more than $3.3 million.
    • Southern Tier: 13 farms were awarded a total of nearly $2.6 million.
    • Western New York: 13 farms were awarded a total of more than $2.7 million.

    The Dairy Modernization Grant program awarded eligible applicants for projects to expand on-farm milk storage capacity, improve the transportation and storage of milk, and strengthen the dairy industry. The program supports the needs of dairy farmers by facilitating the installation of critical technological and infrastructural improvements that will improve dairy supply chain efficiency and avoid the need for raw milk dumping during emergency events.

    Funding for the Dairy Modernization Grant Program is a part of Governor Hochul’s 2024 State of the State and her overarching commitment to the dairy industry, including additional funds dedicated in the FY26 Enacted Budget to support a $10 million second round of the program, and further funding dedicated to research and to implement climate-resilient practices on dairy farms.

    This investment builds on the commitment that Governor Hochul has made to support sustainability in the agricultural industry, including for dairy farms. Under the Governor’s leadership, the FY26 Enacted Budget provides an additional $5.25 million from the Environmental Protection Fund over the previous year for agricultural programs and initiatives that also benefit New York dairy farms, such as the Climate Resilient Farming grant program and the Agricultural Non-Point Source Abatement and Control program, that are helping farms to implement environmentally sustainable practices and combat climate change. Additional allocations for the Farmland Protection Program and the State’s Soil and Water Conservation Districts will also support the New York dairy community.

    Since taking office, Governor Hochul has made significant strides in expanding the dairy manufacturing sector in New York. In the last few years, New York has celebrated investments across the state, including a $650 million fairlife production plant in Webster, the $518 million Great Lakes Cheese packaging and manufacturing facilities in Franklinville, and a $30 million expansion to the Agri-Mark cheese manufacturing facility in Chateaugay, helping New York continue to be the leading producer of milk in the Northeast. Most recently, the Governor announced Chobani, which opened its first U.S. plant in 2005 in New York, will build a 1.4 million square foot, $1.2 billion facility in Rome, Oneida County, capable of producing over one-billion pounds of high-quality dairy products per year. There are currently nearly 300 world-recognized dairy processing plants across New York.

    New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, “I thank Governor Hochul for her continued support of New York agriculture and our state’s dairy industry, which is so critical to our agricultural economy. Our dairy farmers and processors are second to none when it comes to the care they give to the land and their animals and the quality of their milk products. I am so pleased to see this funding being awarded to these deserving farms, who will now have the additional resources they need to ensure that they can continue to provide the very best milk and dairy products, and keep operations and the supply chain going, even in the event of severe weather or emergency events.”

    Farm and Food Growth Fund President and CEO Todd Erling said, “New York State is the country’s fifth largest dairy producing state, with almost 3,000 farms. The majority are family-run and generational operations which this grant program largely benefits. Ensuring efficient and updated infrastructures will not only strengthen and safeguard the supply chain, but will also help to build forward-looking opportunities for the next generation of dairy farmers. Thanks to our hard working farm families, and with the support of Governor Hochul, New York continues to be a leader in our regional food system.”

    Glory Days Farm Owners The Beyer Family said, “Our aspiration is for our farm and farms like ours to remain viable for future generations. The Dairy Modernization Grant Program gives farms like ours the opportunity to progress and innovate, and continue being the lifeblood of our communities. This program encourages the adoption of efficient technology that improves food safety with more consideration to environmental impacts, securing the future of dairy in New York.”

    State Senator Michelle Hinchey said, “New York is in the top five of dairy states producing some of the best products in the country. Dairy is our largest agricultural sector and a powerful contributor to our state and local economies, which is why supporting this leading industry is a major state priority. The Dairy Modernization Grant Program helps our dairy farmers and processors future-proof their operations, ensuring that New York dairy maintains its high standards while advancing efficiency and resiliency. I’m proud to have helped champion this grant program in our state agriculture budget and want to congratulate all of the local dairies and processors, including Uplands Farm in Millbrook, that received funding awards!”

    Assemblymember Donna Lupardo said, “In order for New York to maintain its prominence as a leading dairy state, we have to make important infrastructure investments. The Dairy Modernization Grant Program provides needed technology and upgrades for our dairy farms and cooperative dairies. I am thankful that all of our partners in state government recognize and support the hardworking men and women who make up New York’s largest agricultural sector.”

    Northeast Dairy Producers Association Executive Vice President Tonya Van Slyke said, “For generations, New York’s family dairy farms have been leaders in progressive, science-based management practices that improve efficiencies in the barns, the fields, and the milking parlors, along with storing and transporting milk. The Dairy Modernization Grant Program helps address challenges family dairy farms face and will make a significant impact by providing solutions for increased on-farm milk storage capacity, new technology, and improved efficiencies in transportation for the farms that were awarded grant opportunities. We appreciate the Governor’s continued investment in our family dairy farms, as we work together to protect New York’s food security and cement the state’s position as a leader in dairy.”

    New York State Farm Bureau President David Fisher said, “New York’s dairy industry is critical to the agricultural and economic health of our state. The Dairy Modernization Grant Program is not only a significant step in improving operations for farmers across New York, but also in making a commitment to agricultural sustainability. With Dairy Month upon us, we celebrate dairy farms of all sizes and the farmers who bring fresh, nutritious products to the table every day.”

    About the Dairy Industry in New York State

    New York State has roughly 3,000 dairy farms that produce over 16 billion pounds of milk annually, making New York the nation’s fifth-largest dairy state. The dairy industry is the state’s largest agricultural sector, contributing significantly to the state’s economy by generating nearly half of the state’s total agricultural receipts and providing some of the highest economic multipliers. New York’s unique and talented dairy producers and processors contribute significantly to the state’s agriculture industry, economy and the health of our communities.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: President Donald J. Trump Appoints Joseph H. Thompson Acting United States Attorney for the District of Minnesota

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MINNEAPOLIS – Joseph H. Thompson, who has served as a federal prosecutor for sixteen years, has been appointed by President Donald J. Trump to serve as the Acting United States Attorney for the District of Minnesota.

    “I am honored and humbled to be asked to lead the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota,” said Mr. Thompson. “I look forward to continuing our office’s work combatting violent crime, the scourge of fentanyl and other deadly drugs, and the shocking and unacceptable levels of fraud in our state government programs.”

    Mr. Thompson has served as a federal prosecutor for more than sixteen years, first in the Northern District of Illinois and since 2014 in the District of Minnesota. In that time, Mr. Thompson has  investigated and prosecuted hundreds of cases, many of which involve matters of national and international significance. Most recently, Mr. Thompson has served as the Chief of the Fraud & Public Corruption section. In this role, Mr. Thompson has overseen an unprecedented effort by the U.S. Attorney’s Office to prosecute fraud against state and federal government programs, including as the lead prosecutor in the Feeding Our Future investigation, which has been recognized by the Department of Justice as the largest Covid-19 fraud in the United States.

    From 2023 to 2024, Mr. Thompson served on the Special Counsel team investigating the mishandling of classified documents found at the Penn-Biden Center in Washington, DC, and the personal residence of President Joseph R. Biden in Wilmington, Delaware.

    Mr. Thompson previously served as a federal prosecutor in Chicago from 2009 to 2014, where he prosecuted street gangs, drug cartels, corrupt politicians, and domestic terrorists.

    Mr. Thompson has tried more than twenty jury trials in every major area of federal prosecution. Mr. Thompson has briefed and argued more than a dozen cases before the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals and the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals.   

    Mr. Thompson has received numerous awards and accolades for his work as a federal prosecutor, including the 2024 Attorney General’s Award for Distinguished Service for his work as the lead prosecutor on one of the largest elder fraud cases in the country.

    For more than a decade, Mr. Thompson taught law school, including an advanced criminal law course at the University of Minnesota Law school. Mr. Thompson has also taught trial advocacy to new AUSAs from around the country at the Department of Justice’s National Advocacy Center in South Carolina.

    Prior to becoming a federal prosecutor, Mr. Thompson worked in private practice in Chicago. He also served as a law clerk for the Honorable Rebecca R. Pallmeyer in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois and for the Supreme Court of the Republic of Palau.

    Mr. Thompson was born and raised in Minnesota. He earned a bachelor’s degree, magna cum laude, from Gustavus Adolphus College, and his law degree, with distinction, from Stanford Law School. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: PCP Dealer Sentenced to 60 Months in Federal Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

                WASHINGTON – Kenneth Dawson, 47, of Oxon Hill, Maryland, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court to 60 months in federal prison for repeatedly distributing large quantities of liquid PCP and fentanyl to confidential informants and undercover officers in broad daylight on a busy city street in the Anacostia neighborhood.

                The sentence was announced by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro,  Special Agent in Charge Ibrar A. Mian of the Drug Enforcement Administration Washington Division, and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department.

                Dawson pleaded guilty on Feb. 28, 2025, to one count of distribution of fentanyl and one count of distribution of 100 grams or more of a liquid mixture containing PCP.

                According to court documents, on seven occasions between June 2024 and November 2024, Dawson distributed mixtures containing liquid PCP or fentanyl to confidential informants or an undercover officer near the intersection of 16th Street SE and Marion Barry Avenue SE.

                On June 27, 2024, Dawson sold 102 grams of liquid PCP in exchange for $800, and $100 worth of powdered fentanyl, to a confidential informant. Dawson made similar and larger sales to confidential informants and undercover officers on six other dates through November 2024, including the sale of 97 fentanyl pills. The transactions were recorded by law enforcement.

                On Dec.13, 2024, law enforcement arrested Dawson at his residence in Oxon Hill, Maryland, and executed a federal search warrant at the location. Inside Dawson’s bedroom, agents found additional liquid PCP and PCP paraphernalia, and a loaded large-capacity firearm magazine. Dawson is prohibited under federal law from owning ammunition.

                This case was jointly investigated by the DEA Washington Division, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Metropolitan Police Department, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas G. Strong and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren R. Randell.

    24cr559

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: South Carolina Duo Plead Guilty To Conspiracy To Commit Cyberstalking For Scheme That Resulted In A Victim’s Death

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CHARLOTTE, N.C. –Trysten Anthony Cullon, 26, of South Carolina, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Susan C. Rodriguez and pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to commit cyberstalking for a scheme targeting a vulnerable victim and his immediate family members using extortive and threatening text messages, announced Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Previously, on April 10, 2025, Jade Ashlynn Stone, 25, of South Carolina, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit cyberstalking.

    James C. Barnacle, Jr., Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Charlotte Division joins U.S. Attorney Ferguson in making today’s announcement.

    According to the indictment, filed plea documents, and the court hearings, from September 5 to September 8, 2024, the defendants conspired to engage in a cyberstalking conspiracy that targeted a victim identified in court documents as C.T. C.T. had an intellectual disability and was classified as Educable Mentally Disabled. Because of his disability, C.T. was extensively supported by his immediate family and did not live on his own. C.T. was also employed at a fast-food restaurant chain in Charlotte.

    As Cullon and Stone admitted in court, they used a stolen phone to send C.T.’s family members multiple harassing and intimidating text messages demanding money and threatened to provide derogatory and embarrassing information to C.T.’s employer unless they were paid, including salacious claims that C.T. was a pervert, that he harassed girls, and that he paid girls for sexual pictures. As a result of the substantial emotional distress caused by the extortive and threatening text messages sent by the defendants, C.T. died by suicide.

    Cullon and Stone pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit cyberstalking which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison. Cullon and Stone are both in custody. A sentencing date has not been set.

    In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney Ferguson thanked the FBI for the investigation of this case and the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department for its substantial assistance.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Caryn Finley of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte is prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Granite Credit Union Announces Grand Opening Celebration of New Sandy Branch

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SALT LAKE CITY, June 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Granite Credit Union is excited to announce the official grand opening of its new Sandy Branch, located at 9383 S 700 E, Sandy, Utah 84070. The celebration will take place on Saturday, June 7, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

    The community is invited to enjoy food from local food trucks, GirlsWhoSmash and Udder Rivals, music, prize drawings, giveaways, and activities for all ages, including a cash machine.

    A Media Snippet accompanying this announcement is available in this link.

    “We’re thrilled to celebrate the opening of our new branch with our members and the community,” said Charlotte Toone, branch manager. “This location offers exceptional convenience, centrally located near shopping and in one of Sandy’s fastest-growing areas. It’s a place where members can connect with our team for personalized financial guidance and support in achieving their financial goals.”

    The new Sandy Branch features a modern, open design that creates a welcoming and innovative environment for members to manage their finances. Granite Credit Union offers various services, including savings and checking accounts, insurance, investments, automobile loans, ITIN loans, real estate, commercial, and business lending.

    As Granite Credit Union continues to celebrate its 90th anniversary, it remains grounded in its core values and focused on the future. Whether through expanded access to financial products, deeper community engagement, or its pledge to serve the underserved, Granite Credit Union is—and always will be—”always there…so you can make life happen.”

    To learn more about the event, please visit Granite Credit Union.

    About Granite Credit Union

    Founded in 1935, Granite Credit Union serves over 37,000 members and has nearly $900 million in assets. Committed to helping members achieve their financial goals, Granite Credit Union offers a variety of financial products and services, including competitive rates, flexible lending options, and personalized financial guidance. With a vision of “always there… so you can make life happen,” the credit union strives to empower members with the tools and support they need to succeed financially. Members enjoy access to secure mobile banking services, online tools, and personalized in-branch assistance at locations across Utah. Granite Credit Union is dedicated to positively impacting its communities through financial education, trusted relationships, and exceptional service. Granite Credit Union is always there…so you can make life happen. Learn more at granite.org.

    Media Contact:
    marketing@granite.org

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Marine Week Nashville Kick Off

    Source: US Marines (video statements)

    Nashville Marines

    We’ve officially kicked off #MarineWeekNashville! Sgt. Maj. Carlos Ruiz, Sgt. Maj. of the Marine Corps, the Silent Drill Platoon, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing band, and #Marines with Marine Forces Reserve participated in multiple events in and around the Nashville Superspeedway.

    The 250th Marine Corps birthday campaign continues with the next stop in Nashville, TN. We just wrapped up Day 1, engaging with the community and honoring our legacy. The Marine Corps stands proud and mission-ready to share the Corps’ story across the nation. Stay tuned for more birthday celebrations the rest of this week!

    Nashville, Tennessee (June 1, 2025)

    #USMC250 #Marines250

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X_M4gokJm_k

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Cyberthreat names to align and get more clarity with new industry collaboration

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Cyberthreat names to align and get more clarity with new industry collaboration

    In today’s cyberthreat landscape, even seconds of delay can mean the difference between stopping a cyberattack or falling victim to ransomware. One major cause of delayed response is understanding threat actor attribution, which is often slowed by inaccurate or incomplete data as well as inconsistencies in naming across platforms. This, in turn, can reduce confidence, complicate analysis, and delay response. As outlined in the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s (NIST) guidance on threat sharing (SP 800-1501), aligning how we describe and categorize cyberthreats can improve understanding, coordination, and overall security posture.

    That’s why we are excited to announce that Microsoft and CrowdStrike are teaming up to create alignment across our individual threat actor taxonomies. By mapping where our knowledge of these actors align, we will provide security professionals with the ability to connect insights faster and make decisions with greater confidence.

    Read about Microsoft and Crowdstrike’s joint threat actor taxonomy

    Names are how we make sense of the threat landscape and organize insights into known or likely cyberattacker behaviors. At Microsoft, we’ve published our own threat actor naming taxonomy to help researchers and defenders identify, share, and act on our threat intelligence, which is informed by the 84 trillion threat signals that we process daily. But the same actor that Microsoft refers to as Midnight Blizzard might be referred to as Cozy Bear, APT29, or UNC2452 by another vendor. Our mutual customers are always looking for clarity. Aligning the known commonalities among these actor names directly with peers helps to provide greater clarity and gives defenders a clearer path to action.

    Introducing a collaborative reference guide to threat actors

    Microsoft and CrowdStrike are publishing the first version of our joint threat actor mapping. It includes:

    • A list of common actors tracked by Microsoft and CrowdStrike mapped by their respective taxonomies.
    • Corresponding aliases from each group’s taxonomy.

    This reference guide serves as a starting point, a way to translate across naming systems so defenders can work faster and more efficiently, especially in environments where insights from multiple vendors are in play. This reference guide helps to:

    • Improve confidence in threat actor identification.
    • Streamline correlation across platforms and reports.
    • Accelerate defender action in the face of active cyberthreats.

    This effort is not about creating a single naming standard. Rather, it’s meant to help our customers and the broader security community align intelligence more easily, respond faster, and stay ahead of threat actors.

    Looking ahead

    This initial taxonomy mapping is a collaboration between Microsoft and CrowdStrike. Google/Mandiant and Palo Alto Networks Unit 42 will also be contributing to this effort. We look forward to sharing updates from those collaborations in the near future. Security is a shared responsibility, requiring community-wide efforts to improve defensive measures. We are excited to be teaming up with CrowdStrike and we look forward to others joining us on this journey.

    Read the taxonomy mapping from Microsoft and Crowdstrike

    To learn more about Microsoft Security solutions, visit our website. Bookmark the Security blog to keep up with our expert coverage on security matters. Also, follow us on LinkedIn (Microsoft Security) and X (@MSFTSecurity) for the latest news and updates on cybersecurity.

    1SP 800-150, Guide to Cyber Threat Information Sharing, NIST Computer Security Research Center. October 2016.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Minister Smyth address to Medicine 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Minister Smyth address to Medicine 2025

    Minister Smyth addressed the Royal College of Physicians annual conference

    Since 1948, this organisation has been one of the greatest allies advocating for universal access to health care, high standards in clinical practice, and evidence based medicine.

    And today, I really want to thank our members for everything that you have done over the past 14 years to hold our NHS together.

    Through no fault of your own, you’ve been through the worst crisis in the history of the NHS waiting list at historic highs, patient satisfaction at record lows, people struggling to see a GP, ambulances not turning up on time. Any department is full to bursting.

    That founding promise that the NHS will always be there for us when we needed it, broken.

    But as someone who had my own career 30 years ago in the health service, I completely understand how demoralising this has been for so many staff, how powerless people have felt desperately trying to stop standards slipping or holding a broken system together.

    That’s how I felt as an NHS leader locally, watching the disastrous 2012 reorganisation imposed from the top down, despite all the warnings from frontline leaders and staff. And since then we’ve also had to deal with underinvestment and the global pandemic.

    But while those blows may have left the NHS broken, it’s not beaten.

    Every day there are amazing people delivering outstanding and compassionate care.

    Despite all of those challenges, day in, day out, you show up for work and you fight to deliver the very best care possible for your patients.

    Since coming into office, this government has done everything we can to support you. To restore that basic founding principle that the NHS should always be there for us when we need it. With our Plan for Change, we have hit the ground running.

    As our first step, we promised two million more appointments in our first year.

    Promise made, promise kept: we delivered our promise seven months early and we’ve reached our target, delivering not two, but three million more appointments since July and counting.

    We’ve got waiting lists down by over 200,000 people.

    We ended the strike within three weeks and have now delivered two above-inflation pay rises for NHS staff.

    We’ve invested an extra £26 billion in health and care.

    We’ve recruited 1,500 more GPs, and agreed a GP contract for the first time since the pandemic.

    We’ve delivered the biggest investment to hospitals in a generation.

    The biggest expansion of carer’s allowance since the 1970s.

    A boost for older and disabled people through the Disabled Facilities Grant.

    The biggest real-terms increase to the Public Health Grant in nearly a decade.

    We’ve given pharmacies the biggest funding uplift in a generation.

    For patients, we’ve frozen prescription charges.

    We’ve struck a new deal that will mean women will be able to get the morning-after-pill from pharmacies across the country, absolutely free of charge.

    A lot done, but we know, a hell of a lot more left to do.

    But from day one, we have been clear that investment must come with reform.

    Our job is twofold.

    First, to get the NHS back on its feet, treating patients on time again, and second, to reform the service for the long term, so it is fit for the future.

    This summer we will publish our 10 Year Plan for Health.

    Shifting the focus of healthcare out of hospital and into the community with more investment in primary and community care.

    Bringing our analogue health service into the digital age, arming staff with modern equipment and cutting edge technology.

    And thirdly, turning our sickness service into a preventative health service to help people live well for longer and tackle the biggest killers.

    We’re supporting the effort of prevention through our Smoking and Vapes Bill, to protect children and the most vulnerable to make this generation of kids the first smoke-free generation, and to save untold billions spent on their future care.

    The ban on junk food advertising targeted at children will be a first step in addressing the growing problem of childhood obesity, and those same kids are benefiting from breakfast clubs, so they start school with hungry minds and not hungry bellies.

    Our Mental Health Bill will stop the disgraceful incarceration of learning-disabled adults.

    We’re working with health unions, councils and employers to deliver the first ever Fair Pay Agreement for social care staff.

    And Louise Casey is leading the Commission on Social Care, which will finally get a grip on a system that is broken for too many families.

    Because, as you all know so well, the pressures facing hospitals don’t start in hospitals, just as the problems facing the NHS don’t necessarily start in the NHS, they are a reflection of wider society.

    Fixing broken Britain will require more than fixing a broken NHS.

    After this speech, I’m going to add my own post-it note to your interactive map.

    When my team asked me to think about the most pressing issue in my constituency of Bristol South, I was very quick to answer. Poverty.

    The health service can fix people when they’re broken, but we don’t want people broken.

    The factors that make my constituents unwell are wide ranging, socioeconomic and environmental.

    In other words, the conditions in which we are born, grow, live and work. Secure jobs. Fair pay. Decent housing. Safe streets. Clean air. Accessible transport. The time and affordable facilities to exercise and nutritious food.

    These are the essential building blocks of a healthy life.

    And that’s why this government is focused on economic growth and improving healthy life expectancy for all, while halving the gap in healthy life expectancy between different regions of England.

    And it’s why reform of the health service is so important, because every pound we spend on the health service is a pound that can’t be spent on what you and I call the social determinants of ill health.

    But what everyone else calls feeding hungry children, building warm homes and cleaning up our water and the air that we breathe.

    The NHS has often been compared to an oil tanker that has immense capacity but is slow to change direction. Shifting the focus of our health service will be an immense task, and one that we can only accomplish with your help.

    We’ve already been clear that we’re embarking on a decade of national renewal and that’s why we’re launching a 10 Year Plan.

    Since coming into office, we’ve sought to reset the relationship with medics to improve working lives and restore value.

    This government was never going to be able to completely reverse a decade and a half of decline in only ten months, but this year’s pay awards, the second above inflation pay rise in a row, demonstrates our commitment to rebuilding the NHS and rebuilding the pay conditions and morale of all NHS staff.

    When I joined the NHS 30 years ago, I saw the NHS at what I thought was the worst.

    I remember later on working with the team at the Bristol Royal Infirmary on urgent care, discussing those awful trolley waits, coming into work every day, people trying to find a space or somewhere to discharge people from A&E, conversations that, sadly, are all too familiar again today.

    But I also saw, especially in the years leading up to 2010, the pride people have when they’re working in an improving, well-run system.

    When you’re able to go home at the end of the day, knowing that your patients received the best possible care and the pride, you know that you’re working at the top of your license as part of a team rebuilding a healthier Britain.

    The NHS cannot be saved by one person sitting behind a desk in Whitehall.

    We will only succeed if this is a team effort. From the Prime Minister to the 1.5 million people who work in the service, and the millions of us who use it to take decisions needed to lead healthier, more active lives.

    Turning the NHS around will take time.

    It really won’t be easy, but the prize, the prize available to us is huge and if we get this right, we will be able to say that we were the generation that took the NHS from the worst crisis in its history, got it back on its feet and made it fit for future generations.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Two Florida Men Plead Guilty to Crimes Related to a Scheme to Prepare False Tax Returns for Clients

    Source: US State of Vermont

    Two Florida men pleaded guilty last week just before jury selection began for their June 2 trial. The two pled before Magistrate Judge David Baker to tax crimes related to a scheme to prepare false tax returns for clients. Specifically, Franklin Carter Jr., of Sanford, pleaded guilty to conspiring to defraud the United States and not filing tax returns, and Jonathan Carrillo, of St. Cloud pleaded guilty to conspiring to defraud the United States and assisting in the preparation of false tax returns. The plea must be accepted by a U.S. district court judge.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, from 2016 to 2020 Carter and Carrillo owned and operated Neighborhood Advance Tax (NAT), a return preparation business with a dozen offices throughout Florida. Carter, Carrillo and their co-conspirators fraudulently inflated client tax refunds by fabricating deductions on their returns. They also held periodic training sessions at which they taught other NAT employees how to prepare fraudulent tax returns.

    In 2021, Carter, Carrillo and the co-conspirators started another tax return preparation business. The new business, Taxmates, operated out of the same offices that NAT had previously used. As with NAT, Carter, Carrillo and the others used Taxmates to prepare false tax returns for clients. Many of those returns included false deductions. As before, Carter, Carrillo and their co-conspirators also taught franchise owners and employees how to prepare false returns for clients.

    In addition, Carter did not file personal tax returns for 2019 through 2021, despite being legally required to do so.

    In total, both men caused a tax loss to the IRS exceeding $12 million.

    Several of their co-conspirators have pleaded guilty. Diandre Mentor, Abryle de la Cruz and Emmanuel Almonor pleaded guilty to conspiring to defraud the United States as part of the same scheme. Adon Hemley pleaded guilty to conspiring to defraud the United States and helping others file false returns. Isaiah Hayes pleaded guilty to helping others file false returns.

    Carter and Carrillo will be sentenced at a later date. Both face a maximum sentence of five years in prison for the conspiracy charge. Carter faces a maximum sentence of one year in prison for each failure to file a tax return charge and Carillo faces a maximum sentence of three years in prison for each charge of assisting in the preparation of a false tax return. Both men also face a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Interim U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.

    Trial Attorney Michael L. Jones of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Testerman for the Middle District of Florida are prosecuting the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: JOHN P. HEEKIN SWORN IN AS U. S. ATTORNEY FOR THE NORTHERN DISTRICT OF FLORIDA

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – John P. “Jack” Heekin took the oath of office this morning from Chief District Judge Mark E. Walker to become the 42nd U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.  Mr. Heekin was appointed by Attorney General Pam Bondi as the interim United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida on May 6, 2025, and was nominated to that office by President Donald Trump that same day. Mr. Heekin succeeds Michelle Spaven, who was named Acting U.S. Attorney in early February of 2025.

    U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “I am deeply honored to serve as the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, and look forward to working alongside our outstanding prosecutors, support staff, and law enforcement partners to keep our communities safe. Together, we will fulfill the commitment to public safety advanced by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi, and we will make the Northern District of Florida the safest place in America to live, work, and raise a family.”

    As U.S. Attorney, Mr. Heekin is the top-ranking federal law enforcement official in the Northern District of Florida, which includes Florida’s 23 panhandle counties, from Escambia in the west to Alachua in the east.  The district has offices in Pensacola, Tallahassee, and Gainesville.  The office is responsible for prosecuting federal crimes in the district, including crimes related to terrorism, public corruption, child exploitation, human trafficking, financial fraud, health care fraud, firearms, and narcotics.  The office also defends the United States in civil cases and collects debts owed to the United States.

    U.S. Attorney Heekin recently served as the Deputy Chief of Staff and General Counsel to U.S. Senator Rick Scott (FL) in Washington, D.C., covering a legislative policy portfolio related to the federal judiciary, immigration, law enforcement & criminal justice, and constitutional issues, and advising the Senator on judicial and executive nominations.

    Prior to that, USA Heekin served in the administration of Governor Rick Scott as his Chief Deputy General Counsel, and later as Deputy Chief of Staff, overseeing the Governor’s criminal justice agencies, including the Florida Department of Corrections, the Department of Juvenile Justice, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and the Commission on Offender Review.  He also served as the Governor’s Executive Clemency Advisor and oversaw the execution of death warrants for Florida’s death row inmates.  He acted as Chief Counsel to the Governor’s Financial Emergency Board for Opa-locka and served as the General Counsel to the Governor and Florida Cabinet sitting as the Administration Commission and the Florida Land and Water Adjudicatory Commission.  He began his legal career as an Assistant State Attorney prosecuting criminal offenses for the 15th Judicial Circuit of Florida in Palm Beach County.

    He earned a Bachelor’s degree from Bucknell University, and his Juris Doctor with a certificate in Comparative and International Law from the Columbus School of Law, Catholic University of America, where he graduated cum laude.  While in law school, he authored two published works: “Leashing the Internet Watchdog: Legislative Restraints on Electronic Surveillance in the U.S. and U.K.,” published in The American Intelligence Journal (Vol. 28, No. 1 (Fall 2010)), and “ADHD and the New Americans with Disabilities Act: Expanded Legal Recognition for Cognitive Disorders,” published in The William & Mary Policy Review (Vol. II, No. 1 (Fall 2010)).

    He is a member of the Florida Bar, the District of Columbia Bar, the U.S. Supreme Court Bar, the Federalist Society, and the Republican National Lawyers Association.

    U.S. Attorney Heekin recognized Ms. Spaven for her exemplary service to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida and North Florida communities.  Ms. Spaven will continue her career with the U.S. Attorney’s Office as First Assistant U.S. Attorney.

    His primary office will be in Tallahassee.

    The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website.  For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: South Florida Jury Convicts Murder-For-Hire Conspirators, Face Life in Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MIAMI – A federal jury convicted three South Florida men for their involvement in a murder-for-hire plot carried out in August 2019.

    On May 21, Rolando Ramirez, 52, of Doral, and Rasheed “Fresh” Ali, 39, of Miami, were found guilty of solicitation of a crime of violence (interstate stalking), interstate stalking, conspiracy to use and carry a firearm, discharging a firearm in furtherance of interstate stalking, conspiracy to commit murder for hire, and murder for hire. Tamrat “Shifta” Mason, 41, of Miami, together with Ramirez and Ali, was also found guilty of tampering with the investigation that resulted in their arrest in August 2024.

    According to court records and evidence introduced during trial, Ramirez and the victim, a local businessman, had a contentious federal lawsuit involving various issues related to their business arrangement, including a non-competition clause. The victim won the right to continue to compete. During settlement negotiations, Ramirez told the victim, “In due time, I will kill you.”

    Ali and Mason had a marijuana distributor in New York, Jaime Serrano. Serrano had an outstanding debt to Ali and Mason, which Ali told Serrano he could clear by executing a hit for his friend. Serrano testified that Ali told him the target was a former business partner, who “snitched” on his friend in court. Ali added that Ramirez considered himself “Cuban Mafia.” On August 28, 2019, Serrano, together with Julian Jimenez, carried out the near-fatal shooting of the victim.

    During the investigation, it was revealed that Ramirez, Ali, and Mason tampered with the investigation to cover up their involvement or knowledge of the crime.

    As part of a separate case, Jimenez pled guilty to interstate stalking, conspiracy to use a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, and use of a firearm in furtherance of a crime. A federal jury found Serrano guilty of the same charges. Jimenez and Serrano were sentenced to 35 and 50 years in prison, respectively.

    A sentencing hearing is scheduled for September 5, before U.S. District Court Judge Roy K. Altman. Ramirez and Ali face a sentence of up to life in prison.

    U.S. Attorney Hayden P. O’Byrne for the Southern District of Florida and acting Special Agent in Charge Brett D. Skiles of FBI Miami made the announcement.

    FBI Miami investigated this case, with assistance from the Miami-Dade County Sheriff’s Office.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Abbie D. Waxman and Michael Gilfarb of the Southern District of Florida are prosecuting the case.

    The charges contained in an information are merely accusations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 24-cr-20341.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Topeka farmer indicted for defrauding federal government

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    TOPEKA, KAN. – A federal grand jury in Topeka returned an indictment charging a Kansas man with defrauding the federal government, by selling crops that he used as collateral for a federal government loan.

    According to court documents, Steven W. Porubsky, 48, of Topeka is charged with one count of conversion of mortgaged collateral.

    Porubsky is accused of intentionally defrauding the Farm Service Agency, which is part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), by converting to his own use agricultural products that were mortgaged to the USDA.

    The U.S. Department of Agriculture is investigating the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Lindsey Debenham is prosecuting the case.

    OTHER INDICTMENTS

    Jesse J. Rivera, 43, of Topeka was indicted on one count of theft of government property. The Railroad Retirement Board is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lindsey Debenham is prosecuting the case.

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

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Atlanta Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Trafficking Crack Cocaine, Fentanyl, and Heroin

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    FLORENCE, S.C. — Demetrius Stepp, 45, of Atlanta, Georgia, has been sentenced to more than five years in federal prison after pleading guilty to three counts of distributing fentanyl and crack cocaine.

    Evidence presented to the court showed that on three occasions in April and May 2022, a confidential informant working with Myrtle Beach Police Department purchased narcotics from Stepp. On each occasion, Stepp claimed to sell the confidential informant quantities of heroin and crack cocaine. Lab testing later revealed that the substances sold by Stepp were not crack cocaine and heroin, but crack cocaine and fentanyl. Additional investigation showed that for years, Stepp had been involved in trafficking crack cocaine, fentanyl, and heroin throughout Horry County, often making multiple drug sales per day. 

    United States District Judge Sherri A. Lydon sentenced Stepp to 70 months imprisonment, to be followed by a six-year term of court-ordered supervision.  There is no parole in the federal system.

    This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Myrtle Beach Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Katherine Flynn and Matthew Ellis are prosecuting the case.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Florida Men Plead Guilty to Crimes Related to a Scheme to Prepare False Tax Returns for Clients

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    Two Florida men pleaded guilty last week just before jury selection began for their June 2 trial. The two pled before Magistrate Judge David Baker to tax crimes related to a scheme to prepare false tax returns for clients. Specifically, Franklin Carter Jr., of Sanford, pleaded guilty to conspiring to defraud the United States and not filing tax returns, and Jonathan Carrillo, of St. Cloud pleaded guilty to conspiring to defraud the United States and assisting in the preparation of false tax returns. The plea must be accepted by a U.S. district court judge.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, from 2016 to 2020 Carter and Carrillo owned and operated Neighborhood Advance Tax (NAT), a return preparation business with a dozen offices throughout Florida. Carter, Carrillo and their co-conspirators fraudulently inflated client tax refunds by fabricating deductions on their returns. They also held periodic training sessions at which they taught other NAT employees how to prepare fraudulent tax returns.

    In 2021, Carter, Carrillo and the co-conspirators started another tax return preparation business. The new business, Taxmates, operated out of the same offices that NAT had previously used. As with NAT, Carter, Carrillo and the others used Taxmates to prepare false tax returns for clients. Many of those returns included false deductions. As before, Carter, Carrillo and their co-conspirators also taught franchise owners and employees how to prepare false returns for clients.

    In addition, Carter did not file personal tax returns for 2019 through 2021, despite being legally required to do so.

    In total, both men caused a tax loss to the IRS exceeding $12 million.

    Several of their co-conspirators have pleaded guilty. Diandre Mentor, Abryle de la Cruz and Emmanuel Almonor pleaded guilty to conspiring to defraud the United States as part of the same scheme. Adon Hemley pleaded guilty to conspiring to defraud the United States and helping others file false returns. Isaiah Hayes pleaded guilty to helping others file false returns.

    Carter and Carrillo will be sentenced at a later date. Both face a maximum sentence of five years in prison for the conspiracy charge. Carter faces a maximum sentence of one year in prison for each failure to file a tax return charge and Carillo faces a maximum sentence of three years in prison for each charge of assisting in the preparation of a false tax return. Both men also face a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Interim U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.

    Trial Attorney Michael L. Jones of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Testerman for the Middle District of Florida are prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: In the Wake of Colorado Terrorist Attack Allegedly Committed by Illegal Alien, DHS Announces Revamping of ICE Tip Line

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    Under President Trump and Secretary Noem, DHS is revamping resources and personnel to get terrorists, gang members, sex offenders, and violent criminal illegal aliens out of the country

    WASHINGTON – In the wake of the most recent terror attack in Boulder, Colorado—allegedly committed by illegal alien Mohamed Soliman—the Department of Homeland Security is revamping its Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) tip line.  

    The 24-hour tip line gives Americans the ability to report suspicious criminal activity by illegal aliens including terrorist activity, gang related crimes, and suspected sex trafficking. The tip line is manned by highly trained specialists who take reports from both the public and law enforcement agencies on the more than 400 laws enforced by ICE. Secretary Noem will be providing more resources and personnel to this tip line to ensure DHS is able to quickly identify, locate, and arrest these criminal illegal aliens. 

    “For four years, the Biden Administration allowed millions of unvetted illegal aliens—including terrorists, gang members, and other violent criminals—to pour into our country. Yesterday’s terrorist attack by a suspect illegally in our country, underscores the importance of getting these illegal aliens out of our country,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “Secretary Noem is revamping ICE’s illegal alien tip line to devote more resources and personnel to help remove these criminal illegal aliens from our country. To report suspicious criminal activity, call 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423)— help President Trump, Secretary Noem and our brave law enforcement remove these public safety threats from our communities and to make America safe again.”  

    To report suspicious criminal activity, call 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423).

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Quantum eMotion Closes Brokered LIFE Financing of $12,000,000

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO THE U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

    MONTREAL, June 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Quantum eMotion Corp. (“QeM” or the “Corporation”) (TSX.V: QNC; OTCQB: QNCCF; F: 34Q0) is pleased to announce that it has closed its previously announced best efforts brokered private placement for total gross proceeds of $12,000,000 (the “Offering”), consisting of the issuance of 8,000,000 units of the Corporation (each a “Unit”) at a price of $1.50 per Unit (the “Offering Price”), pursuant to the listed issuer financing exemption (the “LIFE Exemption”) under Part 5A of National Instrument 45-106 – Prospectus Exemptions (“NI 45-106”). A.G.P. Canada Investments ULC (the “Agent”) acted as sole bookrunner for the Offering and A.G.P./Alliance Global Partners acted as the sole U.S. agent to the Corporation in connection with the Offering.

    Each Unit consists of (i) one common share in the capital of the Corporation (a “Share”), and (ii) one common share purchase warrant (a “Warrant”). Each Warrant entitles its holder to acquire one additional common share (a “Warrant Share”) of the Corporation at a price of $1.82 for a period of 3 years from the date of issuance.

    The Corporation intends to use the net proceeds raised from the Offering to accelerate the pace of its research and development (“R&D”) efforts, expand the R&D team, hire staff for the commercialization initiatives underway and for general working capital purposes.

    Subject to compliance with applicable regulatory requirements and in accordance with NI 45-106, the securities issued pursuant to the LIFE Exemption are expected to be immediately freely tradeable and will not be subject to a hold period under applicable Canadian securities laws.

    There is an offering document related to the Offering that can be accessed under the Corporation’s profile at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Corporation website at https://www.quantumemotion.com/.

    As consideration for their services, the Agent has received an aggregate cash fee equal to 6.0% of the gross proceeds of the Offering. In addition, the Corporation issued to the Agent non-transferable warrants (the “Agent Warrants”) representing 4.0% of the aggregate number of Units issued pursuant to the Offering. Each Agent Warrant entitles its holder to purchase one common share of the Corporation at price of $1.66 for a 30-month period from the date of issuance.

    This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of any of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful, including any of the securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws, or an exemption from such registration requirements is available.

    About QeM

    The Corporation’s mission is to address the growing demand for affordable hardware and software security for connected devices. QeM has become a pioneering force in classical and quantum cybersecurity solutions thanks to its patented Quantum Random Number Generator, a security solution that exploits the built-in unpredictability of quantum mechanics and promises to provide enhanced protection for high-value assets and critical systems.

    The Corporation intends to target highly valued Financial Services, Healthcare, Blockchain Applications, Cloud-Based IT Security Infrastructure, Classified Government Networks and Communication Systems, Secure Device Keying (IOT, Automotive, Consumer Electronics) and Quantum Cryptography.

    For further information, please visit our website at https://www.quantumemotion.com/ or contact us at: info@quantumemotion.com

    Marc Rousseau, Chief Financial Officer
    Tel: (514) 886-0045
    Email: info@quantumemotion.com
    Website: www.quantumemotion.com

    Cautionary Note regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws, which is based upon the Corporation’s current internal expectations, estimates, projections, assumptions and beliefs. Such forward-looking statements and forward-looking information include, but are not limited to, statements concerning the Corporation’s expectations with respect to the use of proceeds and the use of the available funds following completion of the Offering, and the completion of the Corporation’s business objectives, and the timing, costs, and benefits thereof. Forward-looking statements or forward-looking information relate to future events and future performance and include statements regarding the expectations and beliefs of management based on information currently available to the Corporation. Such forward-looking statements and forward-looking information often, but not always, can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects”, “potential”, “is expected”, “anticipated”, “is targeted”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “anticipates”, or “believes” or the negatives thereof or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements or forward-looking information are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those reflected in the forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, including, without limitation, risks and uncertainties relating risks inherent to the cybersecurity industry, the value of the Corporation’s intangible assets, completing proof of concept studies, protecting intangible assets rights, timing and availability of external financing on acceptable terms or at all, the possibility that future results will not be consistent with the Corporation’s expectations, increases in costs, changes in legislation and regulation, changes in economic and political conditions and other risks involved in the cybersecurity industry and inherent to new technologies, such as risk of obsolescence, slow adoption and competing technological advances; and those risks set out in the Corporation’s public documents filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

    Should one or more of these risks and uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. Although the Corporation has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that could cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. For more information on the Corporation and the risks and challenges of its business, investors should review the Corporation’s annual filings that are available at www.sedarplus.ca. The Corporation provides no assurance that forward-looking statements or forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements and information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Corporation disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking information.

    Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Snail Games Celebrates ARK Franchise’s 10-Year Anniversary with New Content and Global Community Events

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CULVER CITY, Calif., June 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Snail, Inc. (Nasdaq: SNAL) (“Snail Games” or the “Company”), a leading global independent developer and publisher of interactive digital entertainment, is proud to commemorate the 10-year anniversary of ARK: Survival Evolved (“ASE”), its flagship title and a pillar of its long-term success. Since its debut in Early Access in 2015, ARK has evolved into what we believe to be a world-renowned franchise with a massive player base, strong commercial performance, and an enduring presence in the sandbox survival gaming ecosystem.

    With an install base of over 92.1 million for ARK: Survival Evolved and more than 3.7 billion hours of total playtime logged on Steam, the original title remains one of the most enduring and beloved survival games in the genre. ASE recorded 1.1 million Steam peak daily active users (DAU), a reflection of its global reach and dedicated community.

    The next-generation remake, ARK: Survival Ascended (“ASA”), continues this legacy with a 4.2 million install base since launch in 2023 and more than 275 million hours played to date on Steam. ASA’s peak DAU of 308,000 illustrates the strong adoption of the UE5-powered game, with more content, performance enhancements, and cross-platform innovations planned for future growth.

    In December 2024, ARK: Ultimate Mobile Edition launched globally. The mobile mode effectively reduces hardware barriers and extends the reach of the ARK franchise to a broader international and mobile-first audience. Since its release, the mobile title has exceeded 6.1 million downloads across iOS and Android platforms. With additional premium expansion maps slated for the rest of 2025, Snail Games continues to enhance the mobile experience and reinforce its commitment to growing the ARK franchise on mobile platforms.

    IGN Live 2025

    As part of ARK’s 10th anniversary campaign, Snail Games will also be exhibiting at IGN Live, which will be held from June 6th through June 8th. ARK will be featured both through an interactive booth experience and a dedicated developer panel, providing a platform to engage directly with fans and highlight one of ARK’s next chapters ARK: Aquatica. At the booth Snail will be hosting a contest with a $10,000 prize pool, stop by for more details!

    Upcoming Content Releases

    To mark the 10-year milestone, Snail Games is launching a series of content and community activations across platforms:

    • ARK: Survival Ascended Anniversary Event – Scheduled to span across June 2nd – June 12th; Includes an Egg Incubator, Birthday Suit cosmetics, Surprise Cake item, new event skins, emotes, and additional celebratory in game content.
    • ASA: Astraeos Update – The first major update of Astraeos introduces Lemnokis, a vast new island featuring diverse biomes from snowy and warm redwoods to valleys, forests, and glacier caves, the game’s first duo-minibosses Kalydonios and Erymanthian (two colossal boars wielding fire and poisonous gas), as well as new deep-sea zones rich in resources and a mysterious oceanic location known as The Maelstrom.
    • ARK: Ultimate Mobile Edition – Genesis Part 1 is becoming available for mobile players on June 3rd.
    • ARK: Lost Colony pre-orders start June 18, 2025 – a full-sized canonical expansion pack that continues the ARK saga with a massive, danger-filled city, new creatures, items, structures, exotic tames, advanced building systems, unique gear, powerful character abilities, and a storyline that bridges ARK: Extinction, ARK: Genesis, and ARK 2.
    • ARK: Ragnorak – The fan favorite ancient battleground of beasts and myth awakens again June 18th, fully remastered in ARK Survival: Ascended.
    • ARK: Aquatica DLC – Luminati Suns’ track “On My Way” sets the tone for underwater playground DLC ARK: Aquatica.
      Listen to “On My Way” on Steam!
      Watch the Luminati Suns “On My Way” Behind the Scenes Video

    For creators interested in collaborative opportunities reach out to creatordirect@noiz.gg.

    About Snail, Inc.
    Snail, Inc. (Nasdaq: SNAL) is a leading, global independent developer and publisher of interactive digital entertainment for consumers around the world, with a premier portfolio of premium games designed for use on a variety of platforms, including consoles, PCs, and mobile devices. For more information, please visit: https://snail.com/.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains statements that constitute forward-looking statements. Many of the forward-looking statements contained in this press release can be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “expect,” “should,” “plan,” “intend,” “may,” “predict,” “continue,” “estimate” and “potential,” or the negative of these terms or other similar expressions. Forward-looking statements appear in a number of places in this press release and include, but are not limited to, statements regarding certain of the Company’s upcoming plans to celebrate and commemorate the 10-year anniversary of the Company’s flagship title and a pillar of its long-term success: ARK: Survival Evolved, which includes a proposed exhibition at IGN Live, which will be held from June 6th through June 8th, 2025. You should carefully consider the risks and uncertainties described in the “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, which was filed by the Company with the SEC on March 26, 2025 and other documents filed by the Company from time to time with the SEC, including the Company’s Forms 10-Q filed with the SEC. The Company does not undertake or accept any obligation to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements to reflect any change in its expectations or any change in events, conditions, or circumstances on which any such statement is based.

    Investor Contact:
    John Yi and Steven Shinmachi
    Gateway Group, Inc.
    949-574-3860
    SNAL@gateway-grp.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Truxton Capital Advisors Serves as Sole Financial Advisor to T&R Recovery in Growth Investment from Genesis Park and Cyprium Partners

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NASHVILLE, Tenn., June 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Truxton Capital Advisors (TCA) is pleased to announce its role as the exclusive financial advisor to T&R Recovery Holdings, LLC (“T&R Recovery” or the “Company”) in connection with a strategic growth investment from GP Capital Partners, LP, an investment fund managed by Genesis Park, and Cyprium SBIC I LP, an investment fund managed by Cyprium Partners.

    This transaction included a combination of debt and minority equity, as well as a delayed draw facility to support T&R Recovery’s future expansion initiatives. The capital infusion will accelerate the Company’s strategic growth through acquisitions and market expansion across the behavioral health landscape.

    “We are proud to have advised the outstanding team at T&R Recovery in this transformative transaction,” said Andrew May, Vice Chairman of Truxton. “Their dedication to clinical excellence and operational strength made this a compelling opportunity. We are excited to watch their continued growth with the support of Genesis Park and Cyprium.”

    Founded by seasoned behavioral health operators, T&R Recovery is a leading provider of mental health and addiction treatment services, with three accredited facilities across Arizona and Texas. The Company offers a comprehensive continuum of care, including residential treatment, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, detoxification, and other specialized services.

    This transaction underscores Truxton Capital Advisors’ deep expertise in the healthcare services sector, particularly within behavioral health, and its ability to deliver outstanding outcomes for founder-led and mission-driven businesses.

    About Truxton Capital Advisors
    Truxton Capital Advisors (TCA) provides family-owned businesses with thoughtful, consultative services and investment banking strategies to meet their capital needs. Through a comprehensive, relationship-focused approach, TCA delivers highly sophisticated, tax-sensitive solutions to maximize desired outcomes both for the business today and for the family long-term.

    About Truxton
    Truxton is a premier provider of wealth, banking, and family office services for wealthy individuals, their families, and their business interests. Serving clients across the world, Truxton’s vastly experienced team of professionals provides customized solutions to its clients’ complex financial needs. Founded in 2004 in Nashville, Tennessee, Truxton upholds its original guiding principle: do the right thing. Truxton Trust Company is a subsidiary of financial holding company, Truxton Corporation (OTCPK: TRUX). For more information, visit truxtontrust.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Strategic Defence Review oral statement

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Oral statement to Parliament

    Strategic Defence Review oral statement

    Statement from Defence Secretary John Healey on the Strategic Defence Review.

    With permission, Mr Speaker, I would like to make a statement on the Strategic Defence Review.

    And I have laid the full 130-page review report first before this house. I am grateful to be able to make this statement on the first day back from recess.

    Mr Speaker, the world has changed, and we must respond.

    The SDR is our Plan for Change for Defence.

    A plan to meet the threats we face.

    A plan to step up on European Security and lead in NATO.

    A plan that learns the lessons from Ukraine.

    A plan to seize the defence dividend from our record increase in defence investment, to boost jobs and growth throughout the United Kingdom.

    And a plan to put the men and women of our Armed Forces at the heart of our defence plans: better pay, better kit, better housing.

    Through the SDR will make our Armed Forces stronger, and the British people safer.

    I’d like to thank those who led the SDR… Lord Robertson of Port Ellen, General Barrons and Dr Fiona Hill.

    “The politician, the soldier, and a foreign policy expert”, as they say themselves in their forward. Thye have put in a huge effort, alongside others.

    This is a first-of-its-kind, externally led review.

    A process, in which we received 8 000 submissions from experts, individuals, organisations, and MPs from across the House, including the Shadow Defence Secretary.

    I thank them all – and I thank those in the MOD who have contributed to this SDR.

    This is not just the government’s review it is Britain’s defence review.

    And so, the government endorses the SDR’s vision, accepts its 62 recommendations, which will be implemented.

    Mr Speaker, the threats we face is now more serious and less predictable than at any time since the of Cold War.

    We face war in Europe, growing Russian aggression, new nuclear risks, and daily cyber-attacks at home. 

    Our adversaries are working more in alliance with one another, while technology is changing the way war is fought.

    We are in a new era of threat, which demands a new era for UK Defence.

    Mr Speaker, since the General Election we have demonstrated that we are a government dedicated to delivering for defence.

    Committing the largest sustained increase in defence spending since the end of the Cold War… £5 billion extra this year, 2.5% in 2027, the ambition to 3% in the next parliament.

    Mr Speaker, there can be no investment without reform.

    And so we are already driving also the deepest reforms to defence in 50 years.

    And these will ensure clearer responsibilities, better delivery, stronger budget control and new efficiencies, worth £6 billion in this parliament, money all of which will be reinvested directly into defence.

    Mr Speaker, our Armed Forces will always do what’s needed to keep the nation safe –24/7, in more than 50 countries around the world.

    But in a more dangerous world, the SDR confirms that we must move to warfighting readiness.

    Warfighting readiness means stronger deterrence.

    We need stronger deterrence to avoid the huge costs, human and economic that wars create.

    And we prevent wars by being strong enough to fight and win them. And that is what has made NATO the most successful defence alliance in history, over the last 75 years.

    So Mr Speaker, we will establish a “New Hybrid Navy” by:

    … building Dreadnought, AUKUS submarines, cutting-edge warships and new autonomous vessels.

    Our carriers will carry the first hybrid airwings in Europe.

    We will develop the next generation RAF with:

    F35s, upgraded Typhoons, 6th Gen GCAP and autonomous fighters, to defend Britain’s skies and be able to strike anywhere in the world.

    And we will make the British Army 10 times more lethal by:

    Combining the future technology of drones, autonomy and AI with the heavy metal tanks and artillery.

    Mr Speaker for too long, our Army has been asked to do more with less.

    We inherited a long run recruitment crisis – [political content removed].

    Reversing this decline will take time but we are acting to stem the loss now and aiming to increase the British Army to at least 76,000 full time soldiers in the next parliament.

    Mr Speaker, for the first time in a generation, we are a government who want the number of regular soldiers to rise.

    In our homeland, Mr Speaker, this a government that will protect our island home, we’ll do so by:

    Committing £1bn in new funding to homeland air and missile defences,  by creating a new CyberEM Command to defend Britain in the grey zone and by preparing legislation to improve defence readiness.

    Mr. Speaker, as Ukraine shows a country’s armed forces are only as strong as the industry that stands behind them.

    So this SDR begins a new partnership with industry, with innovators and with investors, we will make engine. We will make defence an engine for growth, an engine for growth to create jobs and increase prosperity in every nation and every region of the UK.

    Take our nuclear enterprise.

    We will commit 15 billion pounds in investment into the sovereign warhead programme in this Parliament, supporting over 9000 jobs. We will establish continuous submarine production through investments in Barrow and in Derby, that will allow us to produce a submarine every 18 months, allowing us to grow our nuclear attack submarine fleet to up to 12 submarines, supporting more than 20,000 jobs.

    And on munitions, we will invest 6 billion pounds in this Parliament, including for six new munitions factories and up to 7000 new long-range weapons, supporting nearly 2000 jobs.

    Mr. Speaker, the lives of workers in Barrow or Derby or Govan, where I was with the Prime Minister this morning, are being transformed, not just by this defence investment, but by the pride and purpose that comes with work that comes with defence work. And in the coming years, more communities and more working people will benefit from the defence dividend that this brings.

    Mr. Speaker Ukraine also tells us that whoever gets new technology into the hands of their armed forces fastest will have the advantage. So we will place Britain at the leading edge of innovation in NATO.

    We will double investment into autonomous systems this parliament. We will invest more than a billion pounds to integrate our armed forces through a new digital targeting web, and we will finance a £400 million UK Defence Innovation organization.

    Mr. Speaker, to ensure that Britain gains the maximum benefit from what we invent and what we produce in this country, we will create a new defence exports office in the MOD, driving exports to our allies and driving growth at home.

    Mr. Speaker, the SDR sets a new vision, a new framework for defence investment.

    The work to confirm a new defence investment plan, superseding the last government’s defence equipment plan, will be completed in the autumn.

    It will ensure our frontline forces get what they need when they need it.

    The plan will be deliverable. It will be affordable. It will consider infrastructure alongside capabilities. It will seize the opportunities of advanced tech, and it will seize the opportunities to grow the British economy.

    And Mr. Speaker, as we lose the national service generation, fewer families across this country have a direct connection to the armed forces. And so we must do more to reconnect the nation with those who defend us.

    And so as the SDR recommends, we will increase the number of cadets by 30%, we will introduce a voluntary Gap Year scheme for school and college leavers, and we will develop a new strategic reserve by 2030.

    Mr. Speaker, we must also renew the nation’s contract with those who serve. We’ve already awarded the biggest pay increase in over 20 years, an inflation busting increase this year. And now I’ve announced we will invest 7 billion pounds of funding this parliament for military accommodation, including 1.5 billion of new money for rapid work to deal with the scandal of military family homes.

    Mr. Speaker, this SDR is the first defence review in a generation for growth and for transformation in UK defence. It will end 14 years of hollowing out in our armed forces, and instead, we will see investment increased, the Navy expanded, the army grown, the Air Force upgraded, war fighting readiness, restored, NATO strengthened, the nuclear deterrent, guaranteed advanced technology developed and jobs, jobs created. Jobs created in every nation, and region of this country. Mr. Speaker. Mr. Strategic Defence Review will make Britain, safer, more secure, at home, and stronger abroad.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department Requires Keysight to Divest Assets to Proceed with Spirent Acquisition

    Source: US Justice – Antitrust Division

    Headline: Justice Department Requires Keysight to Divest Assets to Proceed with Spirent Acquisition

    The Justice Department’s Antitrust Division announced today that it will require Keysight Technologies Inc. (Keysight) to divest Spirent Communications plc.’s (Spirent) high-speed ethernet testing, network security testing, and RF channel emulation businesses to resolve antitrust concerns arising from their proposed $1.5 billion merger.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Celebrating Survivorship: Triumph Over Breast Cancer

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    It was a quiet winter afternoon, January 4, 2024, one Kim Thacker remembers with remarkable clarity. Sitting in an armchair in her living room, she had left work early, feeling more tired than usual. At 3 p.m., her phone rang. It was her radiologist.

    “I was expecting a call at some point,” Thacker recalls, “but nothing prepares you for hearing the word cancer.”

    She had undergone a series of breast biopsies the previous week, but the official diagnosis, invasive lobular carcinoma, hit like a wave she could hardly absorb. “It took months to process it,” she says. “In many ways, I’m still processing it.”

    Kim Thacker is positive starting her first chemotheraphy treatment.

    Within days of that life-changing call, Thacker and her husband sat face-to-face with her care team at UConn Health. They walked through every detail of her diagnosis, translating the language of her scans into something human, something understandable. That clarity, she says, was essential.

    “My only symptom was fatigue,” Thacker shares. “I had no lumps, nothing visible or palpable. It turns out that’s typical for my cancer type, which grows in strands rather than forming a mass. If I hadn’t gone in for my routine mammogram, it might have gone undetected for a long time.

    At just 42 years old, this was only Thacker’s second mammogram. That screening likely saved her life.

    From the very beginning, Thacker felt she was in good hands at UConn Health’s Carole and Ray Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center. Her team included breast surgeon Dr. Rene Relos, radiologist Dr. Robert Dowsett, clinical psychologist, Dr. Judith Cooney, and oncologist Dr. Yueming Chang, along with a dedicated group of nurses and technicians who would walk alongside her every step.

    “The care I’ve received at UConn Health has been incredible,” she says. “Even though they see dozens of patients each day, they always make me feel like I’m the most important one in the room.”

    Kim and infusion nurse Shaily De La Cruz Delgado on her last day of treatment.

    That sense of personal attention was a lifeline, especially during chemotherapy. Kim remembers one nurse in particular with gratitude and affection, infusion nurse, Shaily De La Cruz Delgado.

    “I will never forget Shaily, my chemo nurse. Her kindness and positivity carried me through some of the hardest days.”

    “Working with Kim was one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had,” says De La Cruz Delgado. “Her sensitivity and positive demeaner made her experience a positive one. I enjoyed our conversations about her life outside of the infusion room and how eager she was to get back to her normal life as a wife, mom and teacher.”

    Thacker’s treatment was intensive: a bilateral complete mastectomy, followed by chemotherapy, radiation, and now ongoing care that includes regular injections and a daily medication regimen. Today, her bloodwork shows no signs of cancer.

    She considers herself to be in the early “survivor” stage, grateful, cautious, and grounded in a new perspective.

    “Life has changed in every way,” she says. “My priorities have shifted. I try to live each day with deep joy in my heart and not worry so much about the future. Life is unpredictable for all of us.”

    “Kim did an incredible job navigating the challenges of an unexpected and life-changing cancer diagnosis,” says Cooney. “Through individual and group health psychology sessions, she learned effective strategies to manage physical, emotional, and cognitive distress—such as relaxation techniques, reframing negative thoughts, exercise, spirituality, support, and mindfulness.”

    Following treatment, Thacker not only returned to work but reconnected more deeply with her family and the activities that reflect her values. Her dedication led to more than just coping; she discovered strength, resilience, and gratitude, transforming her experience into one of personal growth.

    “By shifting her focus from anxiety to meaning, Kim deepened her relationships, with her husband, children, and the supportive communities around her, including their church, workplace, and extended family across the country,” says. Cooney.

    For those just beginning their cancer journey, Thacker offers her heart and hard-won wisdom.

    “There will be very hard days,” she says. “But they won’t last forever. Joy will return, deeper, richer than before, because your perspective will have changed. You are not alone.”

    She’s also found space for humor, even in the strangest moments.

    “People say the oddest things when they’re trying to be supportive,” she laughs. “Someone once told me, ‘I understand how hard breast cancer is, because my grandma died from it.’ At the time, it stung. Now, I try to see it for what it is, an awkward attempt at connection. And honestly some of it is just funny now.”

    Today, Thacker is focused on healing, not just her body, but her life. She continues to receive care at UConn Health, surrounded by a team that empowers her every step of the way. “I am so thankful for my care team,” she says

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department Files Federal Charges Against Alleged Perpetrator of Anti-Semitic Terror Attack in Colorado

    Source: US State of California

    WASHINGTON – The Justice Department has filed federal charges against illegal alien Mohammed Sabry Soliman, the alleged perpetrator of yesterday’s anti-Semitic terrorist attack in Colorado.

    Attorney General Pamela Bondi released the following statement:

    “The Department of Justice has swiftly charged the illegal alien perpetrator of this heinous attack with a federal hate crime and will hold him accountable to the fullest extent of the law. Our prayers are with the victims and our Jewish community across the world.

    This vile anti-Semitic violence comes just weeks after the horrific murder of two young Jewish Americans in Washington DC. We will never tolerate this kind of hatred. We refuse to accept a world in which Jewish Americans are targeted for who they are and what they believe.”

    Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon released the following statement:

    “No American should experience violence motivated by hatred based on their faith or national origin, and the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice will act swiftly and decisively to bring the perpetrators of such crimes to justice. There can be zero tolerance for such acts in our great nation.”

    Background:

    -Soliman is being charged with a federal hate crime in addition to facing state charges for attempted murder in Colorado.

    -Read the federal complaint HERE. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department Requires Keysight to Divest Assets to Proceed with Spirent Acquisition

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    The Proposed Settlement Requires a Substantial Divestiture Package That Will Preserve Competition for Specialized Communications Test and Measurement Equipment

    The Justice Department’s Antitrust Division announced today that it will require Keysight Technologies Inc. (Keysight) to divest Spirent Communications plc.’s (Spirent) high-speed ethernet testing, network security testing, and RF channel emulation businesses to resolve antitrust concerns arising from their proposed $1.5 billion merger.

    The Antitrust Division filed a civil antitrust lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia to block the proposed transaction. At the same time, the Division filed a proposed settlement that, if approved by the court, would resolve the Division’s competitive concerns.

    “This structural solution preserves competition for key testing equipment used to ensure that data moves quickly and securely across the world. The proposed divestiture to Viavi, an established and innovative test and measurement company, ensures that American consumers and businesses will continue to benefit from competition that promotes innovation, and which allows American companies to maintain global leadership,” said Assistant Attorney General Abigail Slater of the Antitrust Division. “This consent decree proceeding secures enforceable commitments from the merging parties, provides transparency into the Antitrust Division’s efforts to resolve merger investigations, and gives the public an opportunity to comment as provided by statute.”

    According to the complaint, Keysight and Spirent dominate the markets in the United States for high-speed ethernet testing, network security testing, and RF channel emulators. High-tech companies – including chipset manufacturers, cloud computing providers, mobile network operators, government labs, and large enterprises – rely on the Defendants’ products to validate that their networks and network equipment are functional, secure, and integrating the latest technology. The parties together account for 85% of the market for high-speed ethernet testing, more than 60% of the market for network security testing, and more than 50% of the market for RF channel emulators. Keysight and Spirent are each other’s closest competitors in these markets and compete head-to-head to develop and sell this crucial test equipment. Without the proposed divestiture, Keysight’s acquisition of Spirent would likely result in higher prices, lower quality, and reduced innovation to the detriment of customers and American consumers.

    The proposed settlement requires Keysight to divest Spirent’s high-speed ethernet testing, network security testing, and RF channel emulation businesses to Viavi, including all tangible and intangible assets necessary to produce and sell these products. Together, these three business lines account for about 40% of Spirent’s total revenues. Viavi is expected to hire certain key Spirent employees that today support the divested business lines.

    Keysight is an American company incorporated in Delaware with its principal office in Santa Rosa, California. Keysight offers design, emulation, and test solutions across a range of industries, including commercial communications; aerospace, defense, and government; and electronic industrial. In 2024, Keysight had global revenue of approximately $4.97 billion.   

    Spirent is a global company incorporated in the United Kingdom with its principal office in Crawley, England. Spirent offers automated test and assurance solutions for networks, cybersecurity, and satellite positioning. In 2024, Spirent had global revenue of approximately $460.2 million.

    As required by the Tunney Act, the proposed settlement, along with the Department’s competitive impact statement, will be published in the Federal Register. Any person may submit written comments concerning the proposed settlement within 60 days of its publication to Jared Hughes, Assistant Chief, Media, Entertainment, and Communications Section, Antitrust Division, U.S. Department of Justice, 450 Fifth Street, NW, Suite 7000, Washington, D.C. 20530 or via email at ATR.MEC.Information@usdoj.gov. At the conclusion of the 60-day comment period, the court may enter the final judgment upon a finding that it serves the public interest.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Highway 101 — Update: Kings District RCMP charges man with multiple offences following fatal collision

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Kings District RCMP has charged a man with a total of ten offences following an investigation into a fatal collision that occurred in October 2024, RCMP investigates two fatal collisions on Highway 101 | Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

    On October 12 at approximately 8:26 a.m., Kings District RCMP, fire, and EHS responded to a five-vehicle collision on Highway 101 in Wolfville. Two occupants of a black GMC Acadia, a 62-year-old woman and a child, both of East Kingston, were located deceased at the scene. A third occupant of that same vehicle, a 40-year-old woman, was transported via EHS LifeFlight with life threatening injuries.

    On May 16, Kings District RCMP safely arrested Jeffery Doyle, 52, of Kentville. He is charged with Criminal Negligence Causing Death (two counts), Criminal Negligence Causing Bodily Harm (three counts), and Dangerous Operation of a Conveyance (five counts).

    Doyle was released on conditions and is scheduled to appear in Kentville Provincial Court on July 9 at 9:30 a.m.

    An RCMP collision reconstructionist and RCMP Forensic Identification Services (FIS) supported the investigation that led to these charges.

    Our thoughts continue to be with the victims’ loved ones.

    File #: 2024-1507179

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Media Advisory: U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Eagle to host media tour in Portland

    Source: United States Coast Guard

    News Release  

    U.S. Coast Guard 13th District PA Detachment Astoria
    Contact: Coast Guard PA Detachment Astoria
    Office: (503) 861-6380
    After Hours: (206) 220-7237
    PA Detachment Astoria online newsroom

     

    06/02/2025 01:00 PM EDT

    PORTLAND, Ore. — The U.S. Coast Guard invites local media to tour the Coast Guard Cutter Eagle, known as “America’s Tall Ship,” on Thursday, June 5, from 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m..

    MIL Security OSI –