NewzIntel.com

Category: CTF

  • Markets bounce back after early slump, end slightly lower

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Indian stock markets recovered sharply from early losses on Monday, displaying resilience despite global headwinds. Both benchmark indices ended the session marginally lower.
     
    The Sensex closed at 81,374, down by 77 points or 0.09 per cent, after rebounding 719 points from the day’s low of 80,654. Similarly, the Nifty settled at 24,717, slipping 34 points or 0.14 per cent, recovering from an intraday low of 24,526.
     
    Investor sentiment was initially dampened by the announcement from US President Donald Trump regarding a steep hike in tariffs on steel imports, increasing from 25 per cent to 50 per cent, effective June 4.
     
    Adding to the cautious mood were rising geopolitical tensions between Russia and Ukraine, volatile foreign investment flows, and uncertainty ahead of the Reserve Bank of India’s monetary policy decision later this week.
     
    Despite a weak opening, select heavyweight buying limited the downside. Notable gainers included Adani Ports, Mahindra & Mahindra, Zomato (Eternal), PowerGrid, Hindustan Unilever, Bajaj Finserv, ITC, ICICI Bank, Asian Paints, and Nestle India, which rose between 0.4 per cent and 2 per cent.
     
    In the broader market, the Nifty MidCap and Nifty SmallCap indices outperformed, rising 0.62 per cent and 1.1 per cent, respectively.
     
    Sector-wise, Nifty IT and Nifty Metal indices were the biggest laggards, falling 0.7 per cent on concerns over US tariff hikes. In contrast, Nifty Realty and Nifty PSU Bank indices led the gains, each advancing over 2 per cent.
     
    “The domestic market continued its consolidation phase for the third consecutive week, influenced by renewed concerns over a potential tariff war and escalating geopolitical tensions,” said Vinod Nair, Head of Research at Geojit Financial Services.
     
    “While global uncertainties have made investors more risk-averse, the Indian market has shown resilience, supported by strong institutional inflows and sectoral strength in FMCG, real estate, and financials,” he added.
     
    Nair noted that investors are currently adopting a cautious short-term strategy, favouring domestically-driven and interest-sensitive sectors.
     
    –IANS

  • UPI transactions see 23% rise at Rs 25.14 lakh crore in May

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) recorded a strong rebound in May, processing 18.68 billion transactions, up from 17.89 billion in April, according to data released by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).
     
    This marks a 33 per cent year-on-year (YoY) growth compared to 14.03 billion transactions in May 2023.
     
    In terms of value, UPI transactions surged to ₹25.14 lakh crore in May 2025 — a 5 per cent rise over April’s ₹23.95 lakh crore and a 23 per cent increase from ₹20.45 lakh crore in the same month last year.
     
    The average daily transaction volume stood at 602 million, while the average daily transaction value reached ₹81,106 crore.
     
    UPI continues to cement its dominance in India’s digital payments ecosystem, with its share in total transaction volume rising to 83.7 per cent in FY25, up from 79.7 per cent in FY24.
     
    According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), UPI processed 185.8 billion transactions in 2024–25, marking a 41 per cent YoY growth. In value terms, UPI payments climbed to ₹261 lakh crore, compared to ₹200 lakh crore in the previous fiscal year.
     
    “The success of UPI has positioned India as a global leader, accounting for 48.5 per cent of global real-time payments by volume,” the RBI noted in its annual report.
     
    Overall, digital payments in India — encompassing UPI, card networks, prepaid instruments, and other systems — grew 35 per cent to 221.9 billion transactions in FY25. The value of these payments rose by 17.97 per cent to ₹2,862 lakh crore.
     
    Looking ahead, the RBI reiterated its commitment to expanding UPI’s global footprint, aiming to enable UPI services in 20 countries by 2028–29. UPI apps are already accepted via QR codes in Bhutan, France, Mauritius, Nepal, Singapore, Sri Lanka, and the UAE, allowing Indian travellers to make merchant payments abroad using domestic UPI platforms.
     
    —IANS

  • Russia and Ukraine to hold more peace talks after Kyiv hits nuclear-capable bombers

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Russian and Ukrainian officials are due to sit down on Monday in Istanbul for their second round of direct peace talks since 2022 with no sign they are any closer to an agreement, one day after Kyiv struck some of Moscow’s nuclear-capable bombers.

    The two sides are expected to discuss their respective ideas for what a full ceasefire and a longer term path to peace should look like, amid stark disagreements and pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump, who has threatened to walk away from talks.

    Vladimir Medinsky, the head of Moscow’s delegation, said that Russia had received Ukraine’s draft memorandum for a peace accord ahead of the talks. There was no word on whether Kyiv had received Russia’s draft. Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov will head the Ukrainian delegation.

    Their last round of talks in Istanbul on May 16 yielded the biggest prisoner swap of the war with each side freeing 1,000 prisoners, but no sign of peace – or even a ceasefire as both sides merely stated their opening negotiating positions.

    Kyiv regards Russia’s approach to date as an attempt to force it to capitulate – something it says it will never do – and Moscow, which advanced on the battlefield in May at its fastest rate in six months, says Ukraine should submit to peace on Russian terms or face losing more territory.

    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, speaking in Lithuania on Monday, said ceasefire and humanitarian issues, such as returning more prisoners, from Russia would be a priority for Kyiv at the Istanbul talks.

    Kyiv has said Zelenskiy and Russian President Vladimir Putin should hold direct talks when the time is right.

    Amid low expectations of a breakthrough, a Ukrainian source told Reuters ahead of Monday’s talks that Kyiv was ready to take real steps towards peace if Moscow showed flexibility and what they described as a readiness to “move forward, not just repeat the same previous ultimatums”.

    Ukrainian officials met with officials from Germany, Italy and Britain ahead of the talks to coordinate their positions.

    GRIM MOOD

    The mood in Russia before the talks was grim with influential war bloggers calling on Moscow to deliver a fearsome retaliatory blow against Kyiv after Ukraine on Sunday launched one of its most ambitious attacks of the war, targeting Russian nuclear-capable long-range bombers in Siberia and elsewhere.

    Ukraine’s air force said Russia had launched 472 drones at Ukraine, the highest nightly total of the war.

    Trump envoy Keith Kellogg has indicated that the U.S. will be involved in the talks and that representatives from Britain, France and Germany will be present too, though it was not clear at what level the United States would be represented.

    Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan was due to chair the talks, which are expected to get underway at 1000 GMT.

    The idea of direct talks was first proposed by Putin after Ukraine and European powers demanded that he agree to a ceasefire which the Kremlin dismissed.

    Last June Putin set out his opening terms for an immediate end to the war: Ukraine must drop its NATO ambitions and withdraw all of its troops from the entirety of the territory of four Ukrainian regions claimed and mostly controlled by Russia.

    According to a proposed roadmap that will be presented by Ukrainian negotiators in Istanbul, a copy of which was seen by Reuters, Kyiv wants no restrictions on its military strength after any peace deal, no international recognition of Russian sovereignty over parts of Ukraine taken by Moscow’s forces, and wants reparations.

    The document stated that the current location of the front line will be the starting point for negotiations about territory.
    Russia currently controls just under one fifth of Ukraine, or about 113,100 square km, about the same size as the U.S. state of Ohio.

    Putin ordered tens of thousands of troops to invade Ukraine in February 2022 after eight years of fighting in eastern Ukraine between Russian-backed separatists and Ukrainian troops. The United States says over 1.2 million people have been killed and injured in the war since 2022.

    Trump has called Putin “crazy” and berated Zelenskiy in public in the Oval Office, but the U.S. president has also said that he thinks peace is achievable and that if Putin delays then he could impose tough sanctions on Russia.

    (Reuters)

  • Mizoram schools shut for third day due to rain

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    All the government and private schools in Mizoram remained closed on Monday due to heavy rains that triggered landslides, rockfalls, and waterlogging in different parts of the mountainous state, officials said.

    A senior official of the School Education Department said that Deputy Commissioners of all 11 districts issued separate notifications closing the schools on Monday as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of the students.

    After the beginning of the current spell of heavy rain, earlier, schools were closed across the state for two days on May 29 and May 30.

    However, there was no rain in the state capital, Aizawl, till Monday afternoon.

    Aizawl District Deputy Commissioner Lalhriatpuia, in a notification, said that due to torrential rainfall in the past few days, which resulted in mudflows, landslides, rockfalls and other calamities at various locations within the district, the district authority deems it appropriate to suspend attendance of school-going students for their safety and well-being. This decision has been arrived at after perusing the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) district-wise warning for June 2 (Monday) and appropriate consultation with relevant stakeholders of the Aizawl District Disaster Management Authority (ADDMA).

    Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Sunday held a review meeting with the ministers concerned and senior officials.

    According to a preliminary report of the Disaster Management and Rehabilitation (DMR) Department, 60 houses have collapsed and 69 families have been evacuated from their houses due to the risk of collapse.

    A total of 211 landslides have been reported in different parts of the state till Sunday evening, highways blocked at 83 locations, and four retaining walls have collapsed, the report said. Additionally, rising water levels in riverside habitation areas were reported.

    All the Deputy Commissioners also submitted detailed status reports from their respective districts.

    During Sunday’s meeting, the Chief Minister expressed his gratitude to all those working tirelessly across the state, including first responders, support teams, and personnel involved in evacuation and relief operations. He lauded the resilience of the Mizo people and urged continued support for affected individuals and families.

    A key priority highlighted in the meeting was ensuring that access to district headquarters and the airport remains uninterrupted by keeping essential roads operational.

    Lalduhoma also directed that adequate funds be allocated to all District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMAs) and that relief funds for victims be released at the earliest. It was resolved that disaster-affected areas must be continuously monitored under the supervision of the Department of Disaster Management and Rehabilitation (DM&R). Comprehensive and timely reports are to be submitted to the central government to ensure proper coordination and response.

    The meeting was attended by Home Minister K. Sapdanga, PWD Minister Vanlalhlana, DM&R Minister Prof. Lalnilawma, Public Health Engineering Minister F. Rodingliana, and several senior government officials.

    (IANS)

  • Indian delegation reaffirms anti-terror stance during Liberia visit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    An all-party Indian parliamentary delegation led by Shiv Sena MP Shrikant Eknath Shinde is on a three-day visit to Liberia as part of India’s global outreach to reinforce its message of zero tolerance towards terrorism.

    According to a statement issued by the Indian Embassy in Monrovia, the delegation met with members of the Indian community in Liberia on Sunday, emphasizing India’s firm commitment to combat terrorism in all its forms.

    “The delegation members conveyed the collective will of India to fight terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and the support received from the international community in this endeavor. They also appreciated the diaspora’s role in strengthening India’s friendship with Liberia,” the statement said.

    The delegation was welcomed upon arrival in Monrovia on Saturday by Ambassador of India to Liberia Manoj Bihari Verma, Representative and Chairman of the Executive Committee Sekou S. Kanneh, Prince A. Toles of the Liberian House of Representatives, and members of the Indian community.

    As part of their visit, the delegation paid floral tributes at the grave of former Liberian President William V.S. Tubman, widely revered as the ‘Father of Modern Liberia.’ They also visited the National Museum, which stands as a symbol of Liberia’s resilience and cultural heritage.

  • Supriya Sule-led delegation concludes Ethiopia visit, conveys India’s stand against terrorism

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    An all-party Indian Parliamentary delegation led by NCP MP Supriya Sule concluded its official visit to Ethiopia on Sunday, as part of India’s diplomatic outreach to reinforce its zero-tolerance policy on cross-border terrorism.

    During the visit, the delegation engaged with Ethiopian dignitaries, media, academia, civil society representatives, think tanks, and the Indian diaspora, briefing them on the aftermath of the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam and the subsequent military response under Operation Sindoor.

    The delegation described Operation Sindoor as a calibrated, targeted, and proportionate response, demonstrating India’s resolve to counter terrorism decisively without escalating regional tensions.

    Highlighting India’s long-standing challenges with cross-border terrorism, the MPs stressed the urgency of identifying and holding accountable not just the perpetrators of terror but also their supporters, enablers, and those who offer moral or material backing. They noted that India has begun dismantling the terrorist infrastructure that has operated across its borders for decades.

    The Ethiopian side, in turn, reaffirmed its own zero-tolerance stance on terrorism and expressed strong solidarity with India in the wake of the Pahalgam attack. The delegation thanked the Ethiopian leadership for its unequivocal support.

    During interactions with the media and civil society, the delegation provided detailed briefings on India’s position and their engagements in Ethiopia, while also responding to questions on regional and global developments.

    Addressing members of the Indian community in Ethiopia, the delegation praised them for upholding the values of tolerance, unity, and pluralism, and for resisting efforts aimed at destabilizing India’s social fabric.

    Many Ethiopian nationals who had studied in India and now hold key positions in public life also expressed their support for India’s counter-terrorism measures.

  • PM Modi appreciates Paraguay President Peña’s condemnation of Pahalgam terror attack

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi held wide-ranging bilateral talks with Paraguayan President Santiago Peña Palacios at Hyderabad House in New Delhi on Monday, marking a key moment in India–Paraguay relations. The discussions focused on expanding cooperation across sectors including trade, defence, infrastructure, healthcare, and critical technologies.
     
    Prime Minister Modi began by expressing deep appreciation to Paraguay for its strong condemnation of the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, and the solidarity shown with India.
     
    “President Peña’s visit comes shortly after the heinous attack in Pahalgam. I thank him and the people of Paraguay for their heartfelt condolences and support,” PM Modi said during the talks.
     
    P. Kumaran, Secretary (East) at the Ministry of External Affairs, said in a press briefing that both leaders unequivocally condemned terrorism and violent extremism in all its forms, reinforcing a shared commitment to global peace and security.
     
    President Peña, making his first visit to India, is on a State Visit from June 2 to 4. It marks only the second visit by a Paraguayan President to India—the previous one having taken place in 2012. He is accompanied by a high-level delegation that includes ministers, parliamentarians, provincial governors, and senior officials.
     
    During the talks, the two sides explored avenues to strengthen ties in key areas such as digital technology, pharmaceuticals, energy, mining, agriculture, defence, railways, and space cooperation. They also discussed enhancing trade under the existing Preferential Trade Agreement between India and MERCOSUR, the South American trade bloc of which Paraguay is a member.
     
    “India and Paraguay are both important voices of the Global South. We share similar aspirations and challenges. There is immense potential for growth through collaboration in emerging sectors,” said PM Modi.
     
    He further highlighted opportunities to deepen cooperation in tackling cybercrime, organized crime, and drug trafficking.
     
    Upon arrival in New Delhi, President Peña was given a ceremonial Guard of Honour at the Air Force Station in Palam. He later met with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who said the visit would open new pathways for India’s engagement with Paraguay and the broader Latin American region.
     
    “Appreciate President Peña’s positive sentiments and guidance. Confident his discussions with PM Modi will deepen our cooperation across multiple domains,” Jaishankar posted on X.
     
    The Paraguayan leader also paid floral tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat and is scheduled to call on President Droupadi Murmu, who will host a state banquet in his honour.
     
    Paraguay has emerged as a strategic trade partner for India in Latin America. Indian pharmaceutical and automobile companies have established a presence in Paraguay, while Paraguayan firms are increasingly exploring joint ventures in India.
     
    As part of his itinerary, President Peña will travel to Mumbai on Tuesday, where he will meet political leaders, industry representatives, startups, and technology experts, signalling a growing focus on economic and innovation-driven cooperation.
     
    — IANS

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CHP investigates sporadic case of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli infection

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    CHP investigates sporadic case of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli infection 
    The case involves a 59-year-old man with good past health who attended the Accident and Emergency Department of Tseung Kwan O Hospital on April 28 due to an acute neurological condition, and was transferred to the neurosurgery ward of Kwong Wah Hospital (KWH) for hospitalisation on the same day. He developed bloody diarrhoea on May 9, and this symptom has been resolving since May 12 after treatment. He remains hospitalised for his acute neurological condition and is now in stable condition. His household contact is asymptomatic.
     
    His stool sample tested positive for STEC.
     
         A preliminary investigation by the CHP revealed that the patient had consumed food in the community during the early stage of the incubation period, including patronising restaurants and consuming takeaway food at home. The CHP obtained detailed information from his household member about the food he consumed at home and the cooking process. No high-risk factors were identified. However, the patient could not provide any information on the restaurants he had patronised due to his current health condition. Since the patient was hospitalised during part of the incubation period, CHP staff, for the sake of prudence, visited KWH to investigate and identify the source of the infection.
     
    The other patients who had been hospitalised in the same ward as the patient in question and the medical staff working in the ward were asymptomatic. Arrangements have been made to test stool samples from other patients hospitalised in the same ward and from the healthcare workers responsible for feeding the patient.
     
    The CHP also took environmental samples and samples of the nutritional products consumed by the patient concerned during his stay at KWH. The results showed that all the stool samples from the healthcare workers and patients, and all environmental and nutritional product samples from the ward, were negative for STEC. The CHP has also stepped up surveillance of staff and patients in the ward, and no other cases have been detected. Therefore, the CHP believes that the patient was more likely to have been infected in the community, though the source has not yet been confirmed.
     
    The CHP has recorded one to six cases of STEC infection annually in the past five years (2020 to 2024). The CHP has recorded two cases of STEC infection (including the case announced above) in the first five months of this year. There is no rising trend or abnormal cluster. In general, STEC infections are usually associated with the consumption of contaminated food or water, such as raw or undercooked meat products, contaminated fruits and vegetables, and unpasteurised dairy products. Direct person-to-person transmission through the faecal-oral route can also occur. The public are advised to observe good personal and food hygiene.
    　
    Members of the public may refer to the CHP’s webpageIssued at HKT 19:33

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Sendai Framework Voluntary Commitments Synthesis and Analysis Report 2025

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    This Report is the third edition of the Sendai Framework Voluntary Commitments (SFVC) Synthesis and Analysis Report, showcasing stakeholders’ contributions to implementing the Sendai Framework, as submitted and published on the SFVC online platform. This report builds on continued efforts since the launch of the platform in 2018 and the publication of the first report in 2019 and the second report 2022. 

    It boasts an astonishing 161 published voluntary commitments (VCs), 729 participating organizations and 758 concrete deliverables. In addition, it presents a detailed analysis of the VCs including their geographical scope and distribution, contribution to the Sendai Framework priorities for action, targets and indicators, contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals, hazards covered, among others.

    The Voluntary Commitments initiative reflects the motive of the Sendai Framework that, on the one hand, States have the primary responsibility for DRR, but, on the other hand, this responsibility is shared with all stakeholders. 

     

    Download

    SFVC Report 2025 2.6 MB, PDF, English

    Document links last validated on: 31 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Share your voice Live from the Global Platform

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    As the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction unfolds, we invite you to share your experience in real time.

    Speakers – Share the key messages you’re presenting. Participants – Post what’s inspiring you, who you’re connecting with, and what you’re learning. Everyone – Highlight the actions and ideas you’ll take forward.

    Use our customizable carousel, social cards, and video templates to post throughout the event. Whether you’re on stage, in a session, or networking in the halls – your voice matters.

    📲 Tag your posts with #GPDRR2025 and #ActForResilienceToday Let’s amplify the conversation as it happens. Your insight today can spark action tomorrow.

    My GP2025 Commitments: Social Card Templates

    What I Learned at GP2025: Social Card Templates

    My GP2025 Video Message: Video post templates

    Speakers and Ignite stage

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Youth leads progress in DRR

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Young talent responds to the challenges of the future. On April 30th, youth representatives gathered for the second Regional Consultation organized by the Youth Network for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR), in collaboration with the Major Group for Children and Young People, to exchange experiences and deepen their commitment to climate action and disaster risk reduction.

    The urgency to reinforce community resilience was one of the main conclusions of the preliminary results of the 2025 Youth and DRR Survey, which points out the priorities of the new generations in the region. At the same time, the mid-term review of the Sendai Framework highlighted the need to strengthen the implementation of initiatives at the local level. This underscores the opportunity to expand stakeholder and community participation, and to enhance collaboration between governments, young people, and civil society. 

    ‘Disaster risk reduction is not only the responsibility of young people, but a shared commitment of society as a whole,’ said Saskia Carusi, Deputy Head of the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) – Regional Office for the Americas and the Caribbean. Her statement summarizes the spirit of the day and connects directly to one of the pillars of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030, which especially promotes the participation of young people as key actors in building communities with the capacity to respond to and recover from disasters. ‘Youth should not only be heard but actively included in decision-making processes; their leadership is indispensable for safer and more resilient communities,’ added Carusi, underlining the need to move towards more inclusive governance in the face of risk. 

    The Sendai Framework clearly points the way: ‘Children and young people are agents of change and should be given the space and modalities to contribute to disaster risk reduction, in accordance with legislation, national practice and curricula.’ Creating spaces for youth participation in defining strategies is not only a matter of generational justice, but also a key factor for more inclusive and sustainable risk reduction. 

    This event is the result of the work driven by the Network since the Regional Youth Declaration, presented in 2023 during the VIII Regional Platform for DRR in the Americas and the Caribbean, and reflects the joint effort of more than 600 members from across the region. 

    As a next step, these inputs will be integrated into the Civil Society Declaration to be presented at the 8th Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction in Geneva. This document will amplify youth voices to the international community, as well as set the roadmap for the Youth Network for DRR in the implementation of its action plan 2024-2026.  

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Beatty Statement on the Antisemitic Attack in Boulder, Colorado

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (3rd District of Ohio)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) issued the following statement in response to the recent antisemitic attack in Boulder, Colorado:

    “I share in the sorrow and distress this attack has caused for the victims and for every member of the Jewish community who continues to live under the shadow of rising antisemitism. This was not just an assault on those gathered in Boulder—it was an assault on faith and on our shared humanity.

    Antisemitism has no place in America or anywhere in the world. Not now. Not ever. We must confront it boldly and without hesitation.

    Our Jewish brothers and sisters should be able to gather in peace—on sacred holidays like Shavuot, and every day.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement from Congresswoman Ilhan Omar on the 5 Year Anniversary of George Floyd’s Murder

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Ilhan Omar (DFL-MN)

    MINNEAPOLIS – Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) released the following statement on the five year anniversary of the murder of George Floyd.

    “Five years.
    For five years we have carried the weight of George Floyd’s murder.
    For five years we have called for a system that values Black life and ensures public safety.

    “I am proud of the progress we’ve made, from organizing in our streets to the changes in local policy. I am grateful for the courage of our community in Minneapolis, and for the continued efforts of advocates fighting for justice every day. Because of these advocates, the world was forced to confront the violence embedded in our policing systems.

    “But five years after George Floyd was murdered, there is still so much more work to do. Communities in Minneapolis and across this country continue to be over-policed and under-resourced. Too many families live with the fear that an encounter with law enforcement could turn deadly. And now, we face the horrifying possibility that Derek Chauvin could be pardoned. His pardon would be an insult to George’s memory and to the millions who took to the streets demanding change. Justice undone is still justice denied.

    “This anniversary is a reminder that we need lasting police reform. We need the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act and we need investments in our communities, not more militarized policing. George Floyd should be alive today and we will keep fighting in his name until we build a system that guarantees dignity and safety for all.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Omar’s Statement on Voting NO on GOP Budget Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Ilhan Omar (DFL-MN)

    WASHINGTON—Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) released the following statement after voting “no” on the GOP budget bill.

    “The GOP budget bill is a win for billionaires at the expense of working people. This immoral bill is historic: it is the largest transfer of wealth from the poor to the rich in U.S. history and includes the largest cuts to Medicaid and SNAP we have ever seen.

    “My Republican colleagues will tell you that they are just going after waste, fraud, and abuse. But let’s be clear: the only way to slash safety net spending is by making it harder for people to survive. Right now, families across my district are struggling to put food on the table and keep a roof over their heads. This budget will kick thousands of Minnesotans off their healthcare and nutrition assistance. Over 164,000 Minnesotans in my district are on Medicaid–now their healthcare coverage will be at risk. 90,000 Minnesotans in my district are on SNAP and their food benefits will be in jeopardy. That means more untreated illnesses, more hungry children, and more preventable deaths. These aren’t just line items in a budget; these are people’s lives.

    “This bill also includes plenty of other harmful giveaways. It contains new mining leases on our public lands, including the Boundary Waters Wilderness. It repeals and restricts nearly all of the clean energy tax credits afforded by the Inflation Reduction Act. It more than doubles the funding to ICE as it disappears innocent people. It also adds more money to line the pockets of military contractors. All of these harmful provisions run counter to the values of the Fifth District.

    “All of these devastating cuts pave the way to shower billionaires with tax cuts. Not only are these tax cuts egregious, they are permanent for the wealthy and temporary for working people. At a time of massive wealth and income inequality, it is unconscionable this bill will widen the gap by hurting the poorest 10% of Americans while benefiting the top 10%. This budget is a slap in the face to working people.

    “There is no doubt this budget is a greenlight for authoritarianism and for inequality to run rampant. History will remember those who chose to stand with the working people of this nation and who chose to serve the powerful. And for those reasons, I voted NO on the GOP budget bill.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Ilhan Omar’s Statement on DOJ Move to Dismiss Minneapolis Police Consent Decree

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Ilhan Omar (DFL-MN)

    WASHINGTON – Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) issued the following statement on the Department of Justice’s decision to dismiss the Consent Decree.

    “Five years after George Floyd’s murder in our city, the Department of Justice is now walking away from the very reforms his death demanded. This decision by the Trump Administration is truly a disgrace and a betrayal of the people who took to the streets demanding change and to the families who have lost a loved one to police violence.

    “The consent decree was about honoring George Floyd’s life with real systemic change and addressing the unconstitutional policing that has harmed Black and Brown communities for decades at the hands of the Minneapolis Police Department. For the Trump Administration to dismiss this decree during the anniversary week of George Floyd’s murder is cynical. It sends a chilling message that police violence can be swept under the rug and that federal oversight is expendable when political winds shift.

    “Despite this disappointing decision, I’m encouraged that Minneapolis city leaders have publicly stated their intent to implement the crucial reforms in the Consent Decree. Their commitment to reform is critical for the sake of police accountability but it does not absolve the federal government of its responsibility. Real change requires partnership and transparency at every level of government and the DOJ turning its back on this process undermines that trust we are working to rebuild.

    “I stand with our community, with the Floyd family, and with everyone fighting for a world where an innocent man’s life cannot be taken without consequence.” 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Democratic Members call on Appropriators to protect ILAB funding, American workers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Ilhan Omar (DFL-MN)

    WASHINGTON – Education and Workforce Subcommittee on Workforce Protections Ranking Member Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.), Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee Ranking Member Linda T. Sánchez (D-Calif.), Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (D-Mich.), co-chair of the Child Labor Prevention Task Force and Congressman Steven Horsford (D-Nev.), co-chair of the Labor Caucus, led 68 of their colleagues in calling on the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies to protect Bureau of International Labor Affairs (ILAB) funding in fiscal year 2026 funding bill.

    ILAB promotes a fair global playing field for workers in the United States and around the world by enforcing trade commitments, strengthening labor standards and combating international child labor, forced labor and human trafficking.

    “ILAB plays a critical role in helping U.S. workers compete in a global economy,” the members wrote. “No other U.S. government agency has the expertise and mandate to effectively carry out this mission. We urge you to provide no less than the FY25 enacted level for ILAB so the Bureau can continue its mission to improve the working conditions and rights of workers around the world.”

     In addition to Sánchez, Omar, Scholten and Horsford, the letter was signed by Ways and Means Ranking Member Richard E. Neal (D-Mass.) and Representatives Yassamin Ansari (D-Nev.), Gabe Amo (D-R.I.), Nanette Barragán (D-Calif.), Donald Beyer (D-Va.), Brendan Boyle (D-Pa.), Julia Brownley (D-Calif.), Nikki Budzinski (D-Ill.), André Carson (D-Ill.), Greg Casar (D-Texas), Joaquin Castro (D-Texas), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-Fla.), Judy Chu (D-Calif.), Danny Davis (D-Ill.), Diana DeGette (D-Colo.), Mark DeSaulnier (D-Calif.), Suzi LeVine DelBene (D-Wash.), Lloyd Doggett (D-Texas), Dwight Evans (D-Pa.), Maxwell Frost (D-Fla.), Laura Friedman (D-Calif.), Chuy García (D-Ill), Jimmy Gomez (D-Calif.), Jahana Hayes (D-Conn.), Jared Huffman (D-Calif.), Jonathan Jackson (D-Ill.), Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.), Hank Johnson (D-Ga.), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-Calif.), Robin Kelly (D-Ill.), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-Ill.), Rick Larsen (D-Wash.), John Larson (D-Conn.), Summer Lee (D-Pa.), Seth Magaziner (D-R.I.), John Mannion (D-N.Y.), Sarah McBride (D-Del.), Morgan McGarvey (D-Ky.), James McGovern (D-Mass.), LaMonica McIver (D-N.C.), Gwen Moore (D-Wisc.), Donald Norcross (D-N.J.), Eleanor Norton (D-D.C.), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.), Johnny Olszewski (D-Md.), Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif.), Ayanna Pressley (D-Mass.), Delia Ramirez (D-Ill.), Janice Schakowsky (D-Ill.), Bradley Schneider (D-Ill.), Mary Gay Scanlon (D-Pa.), Terri Sewell (D-Ala.), Mikie Sherrill (D-N.J.), Lateefah Simon (D-Calif.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), Haley Stevens (D-Mich.), Thomas Suozzi (D-N.Y.), Mark Takano (D-Calif.), Mike Thompson (D-Calif.), Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.), Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.), Paul Tonko (D-N.Y.), Nikema Williams (D-Ga.) and Frederica Wilson (D-Fla.).

     Full text of the letter is available is available HERE and follows:

     

    May 22, 2025

     

    The Honorable Robert Aderholt

    Chair

    Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,

    Education, and Related Agencies

    House Committee on Appropriations

    H-310, The Capitol

    Washington, DC 20515

     

    The Honorable Rosa DeLauro

    Ranking Member

    Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,

    Education, and Related Agencies

    House Committee on Appropriations

    1036 Longworth House Office Building

    Washington, DC 20515

     

    Dear Chairman Aderholt and Ranking Member DeLauro,

    As the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies develops its Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 appropriations bill, we write to ask for your support in funding the Department of Labor (DOL)’s Bureau of International Labor Affairs (ILAB). We request no less than the Fiscal Year 2025 enacted level for ILAB to ensure that it can continue to carry out its congressionally mandated mission. We also urge you to encourage ILAB to continue allocating balanced funding for programs that address labor rights and promote freedom of association, as well as exploitative child labor and forced labor internationally.

    As you know, ILAB’s mission is to promote a fair global playing field for workers in the United States and around the world by enforcing trade commitments, strengthening labor standards, and combating international child labor, forced labor, and human trafficking. ILAB works to ensure that fully enforceable labor standards are at the core of our trade agreements and programs, and that trade partners’ laws and practices align with those commitments. The need to continue increasing these capacities across international supply chains and in workplaces around the world remains evident.

    The Government Accountability Office (GAO) in 2014 found that limited resources have prevented DOL from more proactively monitoring trade partner compliance under 14 U.S. free trade agreements with 20 countries and monitoring of trade preference programs with about 120 countries (GAO 15-160). As a result, GAO found that DOL “systematically monitor[s] and enforce[s] compliance with FTA labor provisions for only a few priority countries.” Moreover, GAO also found that ILAB lacks sufficient capacity to carry out the timely investigation of formal submissions regarding violations of trade agreements. The requested funding aims to continue to remedy the weaknesses identified by GAO and to address the historical imbalance in the allocation of ILAB programming activity.

    We also want to stress our support for ILAB’s work enforcing the USMCA. Through the novel Rapid Response Labor Mechanism (RRM), ILAB has taken labor enforcement actions and worked to ensure compliance of our USMCA partners, especially Mexico, with the commitments of the agreement. Further, ILAB’s labor attaché program is crucial in monitoring working conditions on the ground and ensuring trading partners uphold internationally recognized labor rights and comply with labor-related trade obligations. We hope ILAB will continue to spend at least $30 million annually of USMCA appropriated funds on worker organizing and union capacity building in Mexico. 

    USMCA’s implementing legislation included $180 million for ILAB over four years to support unprecedented reform of the labor justice system in Mexico, worker-focused capacity building, and other implementation efforts in addition to $30 million over eight years for ILAB to monitor compliance with USMCA labor obligations. Given this four-year annual appropriation expired in December 2023 and the increased workload for ILAB expected with the upcoming 2026 USMCA review, we stress the importance of robust funding for ILAB.

    We also reject attempts to cut ILAB’s program funding and reaffirm the critical role that ILAB plays in ensuring our trade relationships strengthen and uphold worker rights around the world. Gutting ILAB does not put America first. It undermines American workers, distorts markets in favor of unscrupulous businesses and regimes, strips our trade and customs officials of critical enforcement tools, and accelerates a global race to the bottom on workers’ rights. ILAB is one of the only U.S. government entities with the infrastructure, expertise, and on-the-ground partnerships necessary to effectively counter forced labor

    ILAB must continue to fulfill the various aspects of mission—enforcing our trade commitments, strengthening labor standards, and combating international child labor, forced labor, and human trafficking. Accordingly, we request inclusion of the following language in the committee report that will accompany the FY 2026 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies appropriations bill:

    Of amounts appropriated to the International Labor Affairs Bureau (ILAB), the Secretary is directed that the amount allocated in grants to promote labor rights and freedom of association, and to build the capacity of independent trade unions and countries to enforce labor rights and to promote a more level playing field for U.S. workers shall be at least equal to the amount allocated in grant funding for combatting child labor. ILAB is directed to continue its work on three key reports including DOL’s Findings on the Worst Forms of Child Labor; the List of Goods Produced by Child Labor or Forced Labor; and the List of Products Produced by Forced or Indentured Child Labor.

    ILAB plays a critical role in helping U.S. workers compete in a global economy. No other U.S. government agency has the expertise and mandate to effectively carry out this mission. We urge you to provide no less than the FY25 enacted level for ILAB so the Bureau can continue its mission to improve the working conditions and rights of workers around the world.

    Thank you for your consideration.

    Sincerely,

     ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Erick Tsang unveils GBA aircraft

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Constitutional & Mainland Affairs Erick Tsang today officiated at an unveiling ceremony of a new “Greater Bay Area aircraft” at Hong Kong International Airport.

    The Greater Bay Airlines aircraft has a promotional livery that reads “Leveraging Hong Kong’s Strengths, Developing a First-class Greater Bay Area”, and will operate flights between Hong Kong and both Mainland and overseas cities while promoting the Greater Bay Area (GBA) and Hong Kong.

    This is the first time the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Development Office has used an aircraft as a mobile display platform to promote the GBA globally. The office has used other means of transportation such as buses, trams and ferries in its promotional work.

    Mr Tsang expressed his hope that the aircraft will serve as an “ambassador in the sky” to promote the GBA and raise awareness of GBA developments and of Hong Kong’s role in connecting the Mainland with the world.

    He encouraged all sectors to capitalise on Hong Kong’s distinctive strengths to seize on the enormous opportunities brought about by the GBA and contribute to its development. 

    He also emphasised that the GBA’s development is the best entry point for Hong Kong to actively integrate into the nation’s development overall.

    “Hong Kong possesses the unique advantages of enjoying the strong support of the motherland and being closely connected to the world under the ‘one country, two systems’ principle, and a business environment that is highly market-oriented and internationalised, underpinned by the rule of law, free flow of capital, a comprehensive financial regulatory system, a simple and low tax regime, and a pool of global professional talent.

    “All these have enabled Hong Kong to become a super connector, connecting the Mainland with the world, and leveraging its dual roles in going global and attracting foreign investment for the GBA.”

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The Government has updated the Concept of International Scientific and Technical Cooperation of Russia

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Document

    Order of May 16, 2025 No. 1218-r

    Expanding and deepening cooperation with friendly and neutral states, prioritizing the implementation of Russia’s national interests, ensuring the country’s international leadership in various areas of the global agenda of scientific and technological development – these and other goals are set in the Concept of International Scientific and Technical Cooperation of Russia. The order approving it was signed by Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin.

    The document states that Russia is betting on the formation of favorable and most attractive conditions for effective and fruitful scientific work of domestic and foreign scientists in the interests of Russian science. Among such interests are ensuring technological sovereignty, creating conditions for the sustainable development of the Russian economy on a new technological basis, observing the principles of equality and mutual benefit.

    Creating a comfortable environment for international cooperation is impossible without developing a modern research and technological infrastructure. At the same time, the priority direction of such work will be unique scientific installations of the “megascience” class. The creation of conditions for their successful operation will be carried out by joint efforts of scientific organizations, the state and business.

    Today, the implementation of major scientific projects is impossible without cooperation between scientific organizations from different countries. Therefore, the concept assumes expansion of the geography of interaction with scientists from Asia, Africa, the Middle East and Latin America. Work in this direction will be multifaceted and includes, among other things, the organization of scientific and educational competitions, the activation of scientific exchange and the increase in academic mobility of scientists.

    Russia also plans to actively develop international scientific and technical cooperation within the framework of interaction with key international organizations, including UN structures (UNESCO, UNIDO, IAEA, WHO, etc.), as well as BRICS, the Group of Twenty, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and other global governance institutions.

    The development of these ties should ultimately lead to the formation of a single scientific and technological space. Solving such a task on a CIS scale is also one of the goals of the concept. To do this, it is necessary to implement a coordinated policy on priority areas of development of science and technology and the unification of scientific potentials of the Commonwealth countries.

    Commenting on the adopted document at a meeting with deputy prime ministers on June 2, Mikhail Mishustin noted that it is very important to maintain dialogue between countries and the scientific community, business and public institutions.

    “This is of great importance for the harmonization and dissemination of best practices in the field of international scientific and technical cooperation,” the Prime Minister emphasized.

    The concept of international scientific and technical cooperation was prepared taking into account the provisions of the Strategy for Scientific and Technological Development of Russia.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rosneft Improves Methods of Researching Gas and Gas Condensate Wells

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Specialists from the Rosneft Scientific Institute in Ufa have supplemented the corporate software package RN-VEGA with the ability to comprehensively analyze dynamic data for gas and gas condensate wells without the need to stop their operation.

    The improved functionality of the digital product allows for detailed modeling and analysis of well performance in low-permeability gas formations, taking into account the impact of bottomhole and formation pressures. Based on the results obtained, specialists promptly analyze the causes of changes in well flow rates and select effective geological and technical measures.

    The developed method of complex analysis of dynamic data was tested on wells of the Urengoy gas condensate field of Rosneft. The potential economic effect from the implementation of the new functionality at the enterprise is estimated at 44 million rubles per year due to the reduction in the duration and volume of traditional types of gas-dynamic studies with well shutdown.

    The replication of the upgraded version of RN-VEGA will improve the efficiency of measures to intensify gas and condensate production at the Company’s fields.

    Rosneft is the first oil company in Russia that successfully creates software that covers all key processes of oil and gas production. The Company’s specialists have already developed 24 unique software products.

    Detailed information about RN-VEGA and other Rosneft software is available on the website HTTPS: //rn. Digital/

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft June 2, 2025

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: To Alexander Paretsky, General Director – Artistic Director of the Donetsk State Academic Philharmonic

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Mikhail Mishustin congratulated the head of the DGAF on his 40th birthday.

    The telegram states, in particular:

    “Under your leadership, the Donetsk State Academic Philharmonic carefully preserves and enhances national musical traditions and, despite the difficult situation, conducts active concert activities. The group’s performances, which have become an integral part of the cultural life of the Republic, are always a success, delighting the audience with the skill and diversity of the repertoire.

    I wish you the realization of all your plans, interesting creative projects, good health and prosperity.”

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial News: 100 Years of Scientific and Technical Intelligence (02.06.2025)

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Central Bank of Russia –

    On June 3, 2025, the Bank of Russia will issue into circulation a commemorative silver coin with a face value of 3 rubles, “100th Anniversary of Scientific and Technical Intelligence” (catalog No. 5111-0519).

    The silver coin with a face value of 3 rubles (pure precious metal weight – 31.1 g, alloy fineness – 925) has the shape of a circle with a diameter of 39.0 mm.

    There is a raised edge around the circumference of both the front and back sides of the coin.

    On the obverse of the coin there is a relief image of the State Emblem of the Russian Federation, the inscriptions “RUSSIAN FEDERATION”, “BANK OF RUSSIA”, the coin denomination “3 RUBLES”, the date “2025”, the designation of the metal according to the Periodic Table of Elements of D.I. Mendeleyev, the alloy fineness, the trademark of the St. Petersburg Mint and the pure mass of the precious metal.

    On the reverse side of the coin, inside the stylized orbits of the atom, there is a schematic depiction of a warship, a fighter, an artificial Earth satellite, a nuclear power plant, a microcircuit, and artificial intelligence; in the center is a small emblem of the SVR; along the circumference there are the inscriptions “SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNICAL INTELLIGENCE OF THE SVR OF RUSSIA” and “100 YEARS”, separated by images of laurel branches. All elements of the artistic design are made in relief, the central part of the emblem is in color.

    The side surface of the coin is ribbed.

    The coin is made in proof quality.

    The mintage of the coin is 3.0 thousand pieces.

    The issued coin is a legal tender in the territory of the Russian Federation and must be accepted at face value for all types of payments without restrictions.

    When using the material, a link to the Press Service of the Bank of Russia is required.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    HTTPS: //vv. KBR.ru/Press/PR/? fillet = 638844623450248128KOins.HTM

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Uncontrolled use of spyware – Threat to national sovereignty and fundamental rights – E-002029/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002029/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Nikolaos Anadiotis (NI)

    In Greece, there has been unprecedented institutional outrage at the illegal, opaque and unaccountable surveillance of journalists, politicians, judges and state officials through Predator spyware (see ‘Predatorgate’, wiretapping scandal), with no one yet being held responsible[1].

    At the same time, new surveillance platforms, such as Paragon, are circulating widely on the European market, unhindered, uncontrolled and without any unified supervisory framework[2]. This constitutes a threat not only to the privacy of European citizens but also to fundamental freedoms and human rights, freedom of the press, the democratic functioning of the Member States and national security.

    In light of the above:

    • 1.What further steps does the Commission intend to take with a view to establishing a single and binding European regulatory framework that will strictly control the use of spyware within the EU?
    • 2.Does the Commission intend to establish a mandatory reporting and notification mechanism for the use of spyware by Member States, in order to ensure democratic scrutiny, transparency and compliance with the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights?

    Submitted: 21.5.2025

    • [1] https://balkaninsight.com/2024/08/02/greek-parliament-refuses-to-question-supreme-court-over-spyware-ruling/?utm
    • [2] https://www.reuters.com/technology/cybersecurity/metas-whatsapp-says-israeli-spyware-company-paragon-targeted-scores-users-2025-01-31/?utm
    Last updated: 2 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Greek Ministry of Health granted American companies exclusive rights to genetic material (DNA) of 100 000 newborns for the period 2025–2029 – E-002092/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002092/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Maria Zacharia (NI)

    The contract signed by the Ministry of Health with the American companies RealGenix and Beginnings, granting them the exclusive right to collect, analyse and commercially exploit the genetic material (DNA) of 100 000 newborns over the period 2025–2029, has caused alarm and public outcry in Greece.

    The contract was signed in complete violation of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU Articles 1, 3 (in particular the free and informed consent of the person, the prohibition on the commercialisation of the human body, the protection of personal self-determination), 7 and 8. It took place without public consultation, any competitive procedure or publication on ‘The Transparency Portal (Diavgeia)’, but with a confidentiality clause, in violation of the principles of transparency, accountability and Directive 2014/24/EU on public procurement.

    The Institute of Child Health (ICH) was completely bypassed, while its Scientific Council expressed unanimous opposition, citing serious legal, ethical and scientific issues.

    The genetic material of newborns (DNA) is classed as the companies’ exclusive property, while its collection is carried out without the explicit consent of the parents. The agreement also provides for the transfer of the National Newborn Screening Programme from the public to the private sector, without any democratic or scientific control.

    In view of the above:

    • 1.Is the Commission aware of the agreement and the procedures followed?
    • 2.Does it intend to launch an investigation and request the suspension of the agreement?
    • 3.Does it intend to establish a common European framework for bioethics and the genetic data of minors?

    Submitted: 25.5.2025

    Last updated: 2 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – EU funding for NGOs active in Israel – E-002061/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002061/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Nicolas Bay (ECR), Kosma Złotowski (ECR), Elena Donazzan (ECR), Nora Junco García (ECR), Diego Solier (ECR), Fernand Kartheiser (ECR), Ondřej Krutílek (ECR), Charlie Weimers (ECR), Dick Erixon (ECR), Beatrice Timgren (ECR), Nicola Procaccini (ECR)

    Between 2021 and April 2025, the Commission funded several non-governmental organisations (NGOs) active in Israel to the tune of almost EUR 12 million. Many of these organisations have publicly accused Israel of implementing racist policies and committing crimes against humanity, while being engaged in political actions aimed at challenging the Jewish State’s legitimacy, putting pressure on foreign governments to recognise a Palestinian state, initiating legal proceedings against the State of Israel and its soldiers, and even calling for forms of insurrection against a democratically elected government. Funding these activities could amount to a form of foreign interference by the EU, with serious consequences for the State of Israel and its citizens.

    Can the Commission:

    • 1.ensure that none of these entities are fostering antisemitic discourse, denying the legitimacy of the State of Israel or calling for violence against it?
    • 2.guarantee that no European subsidies are granted to NGOs linked to radical Islam and terrorist groups such as Hamas?
    • 3.carry out a full audit of all subsidies granted to entities operating in Israel to ensure that the EU’s funds are not used to support causes contrary to its values?

    Submitted: 22.5.2025

    Last updated: 2 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Truck drivers on strike in Venlo, the Netherlands – E-001422/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The Commission is aware of the strike of truck drivers in Venlo and will contact the Dutch authorities to enquire on the actions taken regarding the situation of the third-country drivers. If the alleged facts are confirmed, this could constitute a breach of the requirement of good repute for engaging in the occupation of road transport operator under Article 3 of Regulation (EC) No 1071/2009[1], which may lead to the suspension or withdrawal of the authorisation to pursue the occupation of road transport operator.

    2. The Commission, in cooperation with the European Labour Authority, will continue supporting Member States and relevant stakeholders in their efforts to ensure that the rules are properly applied and enforced, for instance by providing guidance and information on the rights of road transport drivers .

    3. The Commission would like to underline that under Article 19(4) of Regulation (EC) 561/2006[2], Member States must ensure that a system of proportionate penalties is in force for infringements of this regulation and Regulation (EU) No 165/2014[3] on the part of undertakings, or associated consignors, freight forwarders, tour operators, principal contractors, subcontractors and driver employment agencies.

    • [1] Regulation (EC) No 1071/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 21 October 2009 establishing common rules concerning the conditions to be complied with to pursue the occupation of road transport operator and repealing Council Directive 96/26/EC ( OJ L 300, 14.11.2009, p. 51).
    • [2] Regulation (EC) No 561/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 March 2006 on the harmonisation of certain social legislation relating to road transport and repealing Council Regulations (EEC) No 3820/85 and (EC) No 2135/98 and repealing Council Regulation (EEC) No 3820/85  (OJ L 102, 11.4.2006, p. 1).
    • [3] Regulation (EU) No 165/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 4 February 2014 on tachographs in road transport, repealing Council Regulation (EEC) No 3821/85 on recording equipment in road transport and amending Regulation (EC) No 561/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council on the harmonisation of certain social legislation relating to road transport (OJ L 60, 28.2.2014, p. 1).
    Last updated: 2 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Europe’s energy independence strategy and making use of Greek deposits – E-000777/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission supports Member States to ensure security of energy supply in the Union. According to Article 194 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, Member States have the full right to determine the conditions for exploiting their energy resources, their choice between different energy sources and the general structure of their energy supply, while adopting measures in view of the commitment for the EU to become climate-neutral by 2050[1].

    Regarding the exploitation of hydrocarbons, the EU legal framework is based on Directive 94/22/EC (Hydrocarbons Directive)[2] which lays down common rules for the prospection, exploration and production of hydrocarbons resources located on its territory. It applies to both onshore and offshore fields.

    The directive underlines the sovereign rights of the Member States over hydrocarbon resources within their territories, e.g. determine the geographical areas and authorise entities to exercise those rights. The Commission can intervene only in cases where the directive is not correctly implemented.

    • [1] As laid out in the European Climate Law.
    • [2] On conditions for granting and using authorisations for prospection, exploration and production of hydrocarbons. Directive 94/22/EC: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/1994/22/oj/eng.
    Last updated: 2 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Russia – E-002890/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    As clearly stated by the European Leaders in the Versailles Declaration in March 2022, and in line with the REPowerEU Plan, the European Union aims to fully phase out Russian fossil fuels.

    On 6 May 2025 the Commission adopted a roadmap[1] towards fully ending Russian energy imports in a coordinated, gradual and secure manner, supporting Member States in stepping up and accelerating efforts in that direction.

    Based on Eurostat’s trade statistics[2], Member States paid to Russia EUR 21,6 billion in 2024 as compared to EUR 144 billion in 2022.

    This 85% decline in payments translates into savings of EUR 122 billion, underscoring the EU’s progress in reducing its dependence on Russian energy imports.

    To achieve this, the measures under the REPowerEU and the EU’s sanctions regime, promoting inter-alia domestically produced renewable energy, energy efficiency and supply diversification have been paramount. All Russian pipeline gas imports, but those coming via the Turkstream, have halted.

    As regards external policies, between February 2022 and December 2024 payments to Russia amounted to approximately EUR 3.5 million under contracts concluded prior to 2021 and providing support through direct management for civil society and independent media. Regarding internal policies, less than EUR 30 000 were paid to Russian entities during the same period.

    • [1] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_25_1131.
    • [2] https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/databrowser/view/ds-045409__custom_15257993/default/table?lang=en.
    Last updated: 2 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – Challenges that AI poses for the culture and the creative sectors in Europe and the US

    Source: European Parliament 3

    During a delegation to Los Angeles, Culture Committee MEPs discussed copyright rules, fair pay, and working conditions in a changing digital environment.

    A delegation of MEPs from the Committee on Culture and Education (CULT) travelled to Los Angeles, from 26 to 29 May, to learn first-hand about the impact of AI and other digital transformative technologies and innovations on the culture and creative industries and the news media sector.

    The delegation met with representatives of film and music studios, streaming platforms, labour unions representing writers, directors, actors and other industry professionals, public media representatives and Congresswoman Laura Friedman.

    “Our constructive meetings shed light on a broad range of common concerns with our US interlocutors, such as possible incentive systems for the film making industry to produce locally,” MEPs said in a joint statement.

    Making the most of disruptive technological advancements or tackling the potential risks brought on by the use of AI – in particular deepfakes, algorithmic bias, and threats to creators’ interests – are common challenges the EU and US culture and creative industries face. MEPs also observed a willingness to put in place solutions allowing the sectors to thrive mutually on both continents.

    The interlocutors the MEPs met referred to the fact that the major film studios prefer contractual relationships on copyright, rather than privileging a regulatory approach. In addition, they learned about the new protections for creative workers brought about by the 2023 writers’ strike, the Human Artistry Campaign, and the NO FAKES Act aimed at preventing the unauthorised use of faces and voices.

    Concerning the music sector, MEPs discussed how to better support and protect artists against possible AI-generated threats, improve the exposure of their work, investment, and representation of diverse musical works across platforms. The challenges brought on by transformative digital technologies, MEPs said, need to be tackled through fit-for-purpose regulatory provisions, clarifying guidelines, and efficient enforcement tools.

    “Our meetings clearly showed that the EU provides best practices in the field and has a leading legislative role in addressing these challenges, notably with the AI Act that has been welcomed by numerous stakeholders,” MEPs said. ”In the current evolving digital landscape, we consider our visit to Los Angeles as a highly useful and enriching way to foster transatlantic collaboration based on open and constructive dialogue in the culture and creative sectors. United, we are stronger in facing the challenges AI poses for culture and the creative sectors.”

    The delegation was led by Nela Riehl (Greens, Germany), and included Bogdan Andrzej Zdrojewski (EPP, Poland), Manuela Ripa (EPP Germany), Hannes Heide (S&D, Austria), Marcos Ros Sempere (S&D, ES), Catherine Griset (PfE, France), Ivaylo Valchev (ECR, Bulgaria), and Laurence Farreng (Renew, France).

    Read the full statement by the CULT delegation.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Failed Covid contracts cost British taxpayer £1.4 billion

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Failed Covid contracts cost British taxpayer £1.4 billion

    New report commissioned by Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, reveals multibillion price British taxpayers paid for reckless handling of Covid contracts

    • New report commissioned by Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, reveals £multibillion price British taxpayers paid for reckless handling of Covid contracts
    • Previous government failure to test defective PPE leaves millions of taxpayer pounds unrecoverable  
    • It comes as Reeves drives work to recover £468 million for communities and public services, underlining commitment to investigate and account for every penny spent during the pandemic under the Plan for Change

    Failed pandemic-era PPE contracts cost the British taxpayer £1.4 billion, as an interim report commissioned by Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, lays bare the scale of the scandal.

    The Covid Counter Fraud Commissioner’s report reveals the price the British public has paid for undelivered contracts which saw taxpayer cash squandered on unusable PPE.

    The last government’s over-ordering of PPE, and delays in checking it, mean that £762 million is unlikely to ever be recovered. These failures saw substandard PPE – gowns, masks and visors – not inspected for two years, meaning public money could no longer be recouped.

    Now Reeves is going further and faster to recover the £468 million that could still be recovered from suppliers – money which the government will put back into communities and public services including the NHS, police and armed forces.

    Recovery action has so far resulted in £182 million being returned to the public purse, and PPE suppliers referred to the National Crime Agency for suspected fraud.

    Chancellor Rachel Reeves said:

    The country is still paying the price for the reckless handling of Covid contracts which saw taxpayer pounds wasted and criminals profit from the pandemic.

    This investigation and plan to recover public money underlines our commitment to ensure that every penny spent during the pandemic is fully accounted for.

    We have always been clear that money poorly spent or fraudulently claimed belongs to the British people. This Government will bring criminals to justice and put taxpayer’s money back where it belongs – in the NHS, police and armed forces.

    Most of the wasted money went on surgical gowns. Over half (52%) were non-compliant, but because much of the defective PPE was not quality tested until after warranties had expired, there is little chance of recovering the money.

    This interim report marks the end of Phase one of Commissioner Tom Hayhoe’s investigation– scrutinising PPE contracts. The Commissioner has now begun work on Phase two, which will see it investigating fraud and error in other pandemic spending programmes such as furlough, bounce-back loans, Business Support Grants and Eat Out to Help Out.

    The Commissioner will provide a full update in a final report to the Chancellor at the conclusion of his term in December 2025.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: ACMD 3-year work programme 2025 to 2028: commissioning letter

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Correspondence

    ACMD 3-year work programme 2025 to 2028: commissioning letter

    Letter from Minister Johnson to the Chair of the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs (ACMD) setting out the priorities for ACMD’s work programme.

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    ACMD 3-year work programme 2025 to 2028: commissioning letter

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    This letter from Minister Johnson to the Chair of the ACMD sets out the Minister’s priorities for the ACMD’s next 3-year work programme.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 June 2025

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