NewzIntel.com

Category: CTF

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Your chance to see the brand new Women’s Rugby World Cup in Sunderland

    Source: City of Sunderland

    People will be able to have their photo taken with the brand new Women’s Rugby World Cup trophy when it visits Sunderland next Friday 6 June.

    The iconic silverware is putting in a special appearance between 12 noon and 4pm in Keel Square on the first day of the three-day Sunderland Food and Drink Festival. 

    World Rugby unveiled the new trophy earlier this month to tie in with the start of the 100-day countdown to the opening match of the Women’s Rugby World Cup kicking off in Sunderland on Friday 22 August which will see England’s Red Roses take on the USA at the Stadium of Light.

    The trophy’s visit marks the culmination of a nationwide tour of all eight host cities and towns as excitement continues to build for the record-breaking tournament.

    The 2025 tournament is already on course to become the biggest Women’s Rugby World Cup in history after selling more than 300,000 tickets – more than twice the total attendance at the last tournament in New Zealand in 2021.

    People visiting Keel Square next Friday will be able to see the new Women’s Rugby World Cup and the bespoke RWC 2025 Defender Trophy Tour Vehicle and have their photo taken with the trophy.

    Councillor Michael Mordey, Leader of Sunderland City Council, said: “It’s fantastic to have the trophy visiting Sunderland as we count down to hosting the opening match of the Women’s Rugby World Cup on 22 August.

    “Having the opening match here is a brilliant opportunity to showcase our city on the international stage. We’re really looking forward to welcoming the Red Roses and the USA teams to Sunderland, along with home-grown rugby fans and those from across the world.”

    Councillor Beth Jones is Sunderland City Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture and Tourism: “With excitement continuing to build now that we’re less than 100 away from the tournament kicking off in Sunderland, this is a brilliant opportunity to have your photo taken with the trophy that the top women’s rugby teams in the world are going to be competing for this summer,” she said.

    “It’s also a great chance to find out more about the sport and how you can get involved, so I’d encourage everyone to come down, have your photo taken with the trophy and enjoy a fantastic time at the Food and Drink Festival while you’re here.”

    Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 Managing Director, Sarah Massey, said: “Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 promises to be a landmark tournament for the sport and the trophy tour to our host locations provides a brilliant opportunity to ignite excitement across England.

    “We look forward to celebrating with fans and encouraging even more people to be a part of this unforgettable tournament.”

    Sunderland Food & Drink Festival is set to take place across Keel Square, High Street West and Market Square from Friday 6 to Sunday 8 June.

    Featuring food from across the world including street food and artisan produce, visitors will also be able to enjoy the live stage programme in Keel Square from 11am to 7pm every day.

    For more information on the food and drink festival visit https://sunderlandfooddrinkfest.co.uk/live-entertainment/

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Made in Saskatchewan Program Sees Success in Cleaning Up Inactive Oil Wells

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on May 29, 2025

    For the second straight year, the number of inactive oil wells in Saskatchewan has been reduced through the Inactive Liability Reduction Program (ILRP), which is administered by the Ministry of Energy and Resources. As of January 2025, there were 1,083 fewer inactive wells compared to when the ILRP was first launched in 2023.

    “In addition to responsibly developing Saskatchewan’s natural resources, our ministry is the provincial oil and gas regulator, a role we take extremely seriously,” Energy and Resources Minister Colleen Young said. “The ILRP shows how we regulate the sector in a way that shields taxpayers from liability risks, protects the environment and facilitates growth. We are fortunate to have reliable oil producers in our province who ensure they are investing in responsible and sustainable resource development.”

    The ILRP sets spending targets for oil producers to manage and decommission inactive facilities in a timely and responsible manner. In 2024, oil producers spent more than $228 million on these costs, nearly doubling the ministry target of $116 million. 

    “Saskatchewan’s oil and natural gas producers continuously strive to lower the environmental footprint of their operations and the ILRP enables industry to manage facilities through the final stage of the project lifecycle,” Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers President and CEO Lisa Baiton said. “Reducing the number of inactive wells and facilities in the province is an incredibly important responsibility for oil and gas producers, and their commitment to the program was demonstrated by the industry nearly doubling the ministry’s funding target. The success of the ILRP in its first two years is an example of how the best solutions come when industry and government work together.”

    The Ministry of Energy and Resources has a successful track record of developing and administering several different clean-up programs for the oil and gas sector. Since 2010, the Saskatchewan oil and gas orphan fund secures contractors using industry funding to properly decommission orphaned oil facilities. Additionally, the Accelerated Site Closure Program, which closed in 2023, allocated $400 million in federal funding to properly decommission 9,823 oil wells in the province, along with thousands of other related facilities and sites. 

    For more information about the Government of Saskatchewan’s liability management programs, please visit saskatchewan.ca.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Huizenga Leads 100+ Members of Congress in Bipartisan Effort to Save Family Farms, Enact H-2A Wage Freeze

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bill Huizenga (MI-02)

    Today, Congressman Bill Huizenga (R-MI) announced he was joined by over 100 of his colleagues on a letter recently sent to House Appropriations leaders requesting an H-2A visa guestworker wage freeze in upcoming appropriations legislation. This simple policy fix would lower input costs for the agricultural community and save family farms across the nation. The level of support for freezing the H-2A wage rate is significant because it is bipartisan and represents the majority of the House Republican Conference (111). Last Congress, Huizenga led the charge to help family farms and achieved a policy win in legislation that passed the House Appropriations Committee.

    The “Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR),” or the required wage that farm employers must pay H-2A workers, more than doubled since 2005, making agricultural labor and its products more unaffordable. With the nation’s average AEWR reaching $18.12/hr in 2025 (more than a 3% increase year over year) on top of other input costs including fuel, housing, and fertilizer also rising, many farms are in danger of going out of business. In Michigan, the AEWR is a steep $18.15/hr, while our Canadian neighbors pay their agricultural workers closer to $12/hr, or just a few dollars in Mexico. A temporary wage freeze is a reasonable way to alleviate this skyrocketing financial burden and give our farmers a chance to compete, stay in business, and put food on the table for millions of Americans and the world.

    A signed copy of the letter is available here.

    “In Michigan and across our nation, family farms are struggling due in part to soaring H2A labor costs,” said Congressman Bill Huizenga. “Washington should be working to help American farmers lower costs, not crushing them with outdated mandates that balloon their expenses and make it more difficult for these multigenerational farms to keep the lights on. I am proud to lead this bipartisan effort, which includes the majority of House Republicans, to provide the most immediate, practical, and agreed-upon way to enact relief and stop farms here in Michigan and around the country from shutting down their operations.”

    “I have met with fifth and sixth-generation Michigan farmers who are worried they will be the last in their families to farm unless the Labor Department ends the policies making it harder for them to do business. An AEWR freeze, like the one in my Supporting Farm Operations Act, is a common-sense solution widely supported by the agriculture community. Thank you to Congressman Huizenga for leading this letter with dozens of members supporting our efforts. As our state’s only member of the House Appropriations Committee, I will continue to fight for much-needed relief for farmers,” said Congressman John Moolenaar.

    “Michigan farmers are beginning another season filled with the hope of delivering safe, plentiful, and affordable crops for consumers. Nonetheless, the farm families and agricultural guest workers crucial for cultivating these crops find themselves in uncertainty due to unsustainable adverse effect wage rates. It is essential for farmers and workers to have a dependable and sensible method for calculating this mandated wage. The Michigan Farm Bureau commends Congressman Huizenga and Congresswoman Scholten for spearheading this effort, alongside many of their colleagues, to instigate necessary changes that will offer relief to America’s farm families,” said Matt Smego, Director of Public Policy & Commodity Division, Michigan Farm Bureau.

    “Representative Bill Huizenga refuses to turn his back on Michigan and US vegetable and fruit growers.  The AEWR must be paused to continue domestic vegetable and fruit production.  The H-2A guest worker program functions pretty well, but the mandated AEWR no longer functions as envisioned.  There is not enough of a domestic workforce left for the AEWR to prevent guest workers taking employment opportunities from the domestic workforce,” said Greg Bird, Executive Director of Michigan’s Vegetable Council.

    “The bipartisan effort to freeze H-2A wages for farmworkers is encouraging to the Michigan Apple industry, with lawmakers from both parties showing an understanding of the unsustainable increases in costs to growers, as well as support for producers of food here in our state and across the country,” said Diane Smith of the Michigan Apple Association. “With labor costs accounting for approximately 56 percent of total production expenses for Michigan Apple growers, the Adverse Effect Wage Rate increases over the last 10 years threaten to put growers out of business.  Most apple growers are losing money at this point – more than $1,800 per acre, as production costs continue to rise. We are so grateful for the continued support of the Michigan congress members, Representative Huizenga and Representative Scholten, who co-lead the effort, as well as other Michigan congress members from both sides of the aisle who have supported agriculture.”

    “Michigan asparagus growers are facing a breaking point under the weight of the skyrocketing Adverse Effect Wage Rate,” said Jamie Clover Adams, CEO of the Michigan Asparagus Association. “Labor already accounts for nearly 60% of our growers’ total costs, and wage hikes—disconnected from market realities—are putting multi-generational family farms and rural economies at risk. We deeply appreciate Congressman Huizenga’s leadership in rallying bipartisan support for an H-2A wage freeze and urge Congress to act swiftly to support farms that grow hand-harvested fruits and vegetables.”

    “An H-2A wage freeze provides cost predictability for our farmers, allowing them to budget and manage labor resources while ensuring they can continue to employ the necessary labor force for crop planting and harvest while a more permanent solution is investigated,” said Kelly Turner, Ed.D, CAE. Manager, Potato Growers of Michigan.

    “Input costs, including labor, continue to rise as farm families struggle in this troubling farm economy. Without immediate action, these conditions threaten the livelihoods of farmers and their employees. Thankfully, members of Congress are willing to support critical relief until durable reforms are achieved. We are grateful for the consistent leadership of Rep. Huizenga and this bipartisan group of legislators who are standing against the status quo.” John Walt Boatright, American Farm Bureau Federation Director of Government Affairs

    “AmericanHort commends Reps. Bill Huizenga (R-MI-04), for leading this bipartisan letter with over 100 Members of Congress requesting to freeze the Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR),” said Ken Fisher, President and CEO, AmericanHort. “As labor and affiliated costs continue to put pressure on our growers and the horticulture industry, placing a freeze on the AEWR will ease the high cost of labor and aid growers in planning for the future.”

    “International Fresh Produce Association members need Congress to rise to the occasion to prevent crippling cost increases that will put farms out of business and Congressman Bill Huizenga is leading the charge to do just that. By addressing the single biggest complaint from H-2A program users – uncontrollable wage labor costs – Congressman Huizenga’s bipartisan appropriations language will provide the relief we need today, while we work together to seek broader program reforms.” Rebeckah Adcock, Vice President, US Government Relations, International Fresh Produce Association

    “Congress’ failure to modernize the H-2A visa program has led to unsustainable, perpetual annual wage increases that are driving American farmers out of business,” said Kasey Cronquist, president of the North American Blueberry Council. “Congressman Huizenga’s bipartisan effort to pause the Adverse Effect Wage Rate is more critical than ever. On behalf of the many blueberry growers across the country who rely on the H-2A program to harvest their crops, we thank every member of Congress who is standing up for American farmers by supporting this appropriations request,” said Kasey Cronquist, President of The North American Blueberry Council (NABC).

    “We greatly appreciate Rep. Huizenga for leading this bipartisan effort to address the single biggest challenge facing apple growers nationwide. The unsustainable cost of the H-2A program is forcing multi-generational family farms to question whether they can keep going, let alone pass their operations on to the next generation. We urge Congress to enact this freeze and pursue common-sense H-2A reforms so we can continue supplying the world with America’s favorite fruit.” Jim Bair, President & CEO, U.S. Apple Association

    “Out of control AEWR increases have made it nearly impossible for custom harvesters to afford the labor necessary to meet the harvest needs of our farmer customers across the country.  Congress needs to act to provide H-2A wage relief as soon as possible,” said Paul Paplow, President U.S. Custom Harvesters Inc.

    “Texas Farm Bureau (TFB) thanks Congressman Bill Huizenga for working in a bipartisan fashion to raise concerns on the skyrocketing Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) and its impacts on hardworking farm and ranch families,” said TFB President Russell Boening. “While TFB readily recognizes the need for comprehensive long-term H-2A labor reform, a freeze on the AEWR will provide critical short-term relief. If action is not taken, many farmers and ranchers will be forced out of business, putting our national food security at severe risk. We thank all the members of Congress who signed the letter and recognize the direness of the situation. TFB looks forward to our continued work with Congress on agricultural labor reform.”

    Joining Congressman Huizenga on the letter are Representatives: Hillary Scholten (D-MI)[Co-Lead], Rick Crawford (R-AR)[Co-Lead], Patrick Ryan (D-NY)[Co-Lead], Rick Allen (R-GA), Don Bacon (R-NE), Troy Balderson (R-OH), Andy Barr (R-KY), Tom Barrett (R-MI), Michael Baumgartner (R-WA), Cliff Bentz (R-OR), Jack Bergman (R-MI), Sheri Biggs (R-SC), Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), Lauren Boebert (R-CO), Mike Bost (R-IL), Vern Buchanan (R-FL), Kat Cammack (R-FL), Earl Carter (R-GA), Michael Cloud (R-TX), Andrew Clyde (R-GA), Mike Collins (R-GA), James Comer (R-KY), Monica De La Cruz (R-TX), Scott DesJarlais (R-TN), Byron Donalds (R-FL), Neal Dunn (R-FL), Gabe Evans (R-CO), Mike Ezell (R-MS), Pat Fallon (R-TX), Julie Fedorchak (R-ND), Randy Feenstra (R-IA), Brad Finstad (R-MN), Michelle Fischbach (R-MN), Russell Fry (R-SC), Russ Fulcher (R-ID), Craig Goldman (R-TX), Lance Gooden (R-TX), Glenn Grothman (R-WI), Brett Guthrie (R-KY), Mike Haridopolos (R-FL), Pat Harrigan (R-NC), Mark Harris (R-MD), Diana Harshbarger (R-TN), Kevin Hern (R-OK), Clay Higgins (R-LA), J. Hill (R-AR), Erin Houchin (R-IN), Richard Hudson (R-NC), Jeff Hurd (R-CO), Brian Jack (R-KY), Ronny Jackson (R-TX), John James (R-MI), Dusty Johnson (R-SD), John Joyce (R-PA), Mike Kelly (R-PA), Trent Kelly (R-MS), Mike Kennedy (R-UT), Jennifer Kiggans (R-VA), Brad Knott (R-NC), David Kustoff (R-TN), Darin LaHood (R-IL), Doug LaMalfa (R-CA), Nicholas Langworthy (R-NY), Robert Latta (R-OH), Michael Lawler (R-NY), Laurel Lee (R-FL), Barry Loudermilk (R-GA), Frank Lucas (R-OK), Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL), Morgan Luttrell (R-TX), Nancy Mace (R-SC), John Mannion (D-NY), Michael McCaul (R-TX), Addison McDowell (R-NC), John McGuire (R-VA), Mark Messmer (R-IN), Daniel Meuser (R-PA), Mary Miller (R-IL), Max Miller (R-OH), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA), Cory Mills (R-FL), Barry Moore (R-AL), Blake Moore (R-UT), Nathaniel Moran (R-TX), Gregory Murphy (R-NC), Troy Nehls (R-TX), Ralph Norman (R-SC), Zachary Nunn (R-IA), Gary Palmer (R-AL), August Pfluger (R-TX), Josh Riley (D-NY), Mike Rogers (R-AL), John Rose (R-TN), David Rouzer (R-NC), Maria Salazar (R-FL), Austin Scott (R-GA), Keith Self (R-TX), Pete Sessions (R-TX), Jefferson Shreve (R-IN), Adrian Smith (R-NE), Pete Stauber (R-MN), Elise Stefanik (R-NY), W. Steube (R-FL), Marlin Stutzman (R-IN), Claudia Tenney (R-NY), Shri Thanedar (D-MI), Glenn Thompson (R-PA), William Timmons (R-SC), Jefferson Van Drew (R-NJ), Randy Weber (R-TX), Daniel Webster (R-FL), Bruce Westerman (R-AR), Roger Williams (R-TX), Joe Wilson (R-SC), and Rudy Yakym (R-IN).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man Sought in Attempted Kidnapping in South Boston Arrested by the NY/NJ Regional Fugitive Task Force

    Source: US Marshals Service

    New York, NY – Deputies and Task Force Officers from the U.S. Marshals NY/NJ Regional Fugitive Task Force (NY/NJ RFTF) today apprehended the man wanted in the May 25 attempted kidnapping of a woman in the Seaport section of Boston.

    Adam McCree is alleged to have attempted to kidnap and assault a woman in South Boston. McCree has multiple warrants out of Boston and New York, and authorities believed that he may have fled to New York.

    The Boston Police Department requested the assistance of the U.S. Marshals Service Massachusetts Fugitive Task Force, and a multistate manhunt ensued. The NY/NJ RFTF, along with Task Force Officers of the New York Police Department (NYPD), were alerted that McCree was possibly in the Bronx area. Information was quickly developed that led the team to the Bronxwood area. As the NY/NJ RFTF surrounded the location, McCree fled out of the location and led the team in a foot pursuit.  The NY/NJ RFTF quickly surrounded McCree and took him into custody.

    “I commend the U.S Marshals New York/ New Jersey Regional Fugitive Task Force and the NYPD for arresting the suspect in a disturbing case of kidnapping and rape,” said Jhovanny Gomez, U.S. Marshal for the Southern District of New York.  “Their dedication to protecting the public and holding violent offenders accountable is something our community can be proud of.”

    The NY/NJ RFTF began operations in April 2002 and was the first regional fugitive task force to become fully operational following the Presidential Threat Protection Act of 2000. The NY/NJ RFTF was the flagship that has allowed seven other regional fugitive task forces to be created across the country. With partnership agreements with over 90 federal, state, or local agencies and 13 fully operational offices, the NY/NJ RFTF has successfully apprehended over 95,000 fugitives since inception.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Matador Technologies Inc. Enters Binding LOI to Partner with Indian Digital Asset Product Strategy Firm

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, May 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Matador Technologies Inc. (“Matador” or the “Company”) (TSXV: MATA, OTCQB: MATAF) is pleased to announce that it has entered into a binding letter of intent (“LOI“) to invest in a publicly traded Indian technology company, tentatively named HODL Systems (“HODL”), that implements a treasury strategy which includes investing into digital assets.

    Under the terms of the LOI, Matador will commit to invest up to USD$3,200,000 (“Investment Amount”) in a share warrant structure that would provide Matador up to 24.95% ownership stake in HODL, assuming full exercise of the warrants. This investment aligns with Matador’s strategy to increase its exposure to the global digital asset ecosystem.

    As part of the transaction, Matador also expects to enter into a licensing agreement with HODL in due course to distribute its proprietary digital gold product and other Ordinals technology in the Indian market. The agreement is intended to support Matador’s expansion into new markets within the digital asset sector. Both the LOI and the licensing agreement remain subject to the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange (the “Exchange”), and the investment is subject to Exchange acceptance of the Change of Business.

    The first tranche of the aforesaid warrant investment is expected to close on or before July 10, 2025, subject to customary conditions and regulatory approvals.

    Key Highlights & Strategic Rationale

    • Expansion into the Indian Market: India is a large and growing market for technology and digital assets. This investment allows Matador to establish a foothold in this dynamic region.
    • Balance Sheet Strategy: HODL’s business model aligns with Matador’s broader investment thesis around the adoption of digital assets and the integration of decentralized financial assets.
    • Licensing Agreement for Digital Gold & Ordinals Technology: By bringing its proprietary digital gold product and Ordinals technology to India through HODL, Matador aims to broaden access to its blockchain-based products through this partnership.
    • Capturing a Digitally Native Gold Market: India is the largest private gold-owning country in the world, with households holding more than 25,000 tonnes of gold (World Gold Council). At the same time, over 65% of India’s population is under the age of 35, with a growing middle class increasingly adopting mobile-first, digital investment platforms (UNDP India). Matador and HODL plan to offer blockchain-based investment products tailored to younger, tech-savvy investors in India.
    • Potential for Long-Term Value Creation: Through this investment and licensing arrangement, Matador may participate in HODL’s future growth and expansion into digital asset markets.

    Additional Information from the Letter of Intent

    • Date of Agreement: May 29, 2025 (“Effective Date”)
    • Investment Timelines: 25% of the Investment Amount on or before July 10, 2025, and the remaining 75% of the Investment Amount on or before 18 months from the date of allotment of the share warrants.
    • Valuation Report: HODL will obtain a valuation report from an independent registered valuer, acceptable to Matador, to ensure compliance with applicable regulations and provide transparency in the transaction.
    • Conversion Terms of Share Warrants: The Share Warrants are convertible into equity shares of HODL at a 1:1 ratio at any time within 18 months from the date of allotment, at Matador’s discretion.
    • Conditions of Offer:
      • The board of directors of HODL are expected to accept the LOI as of the Effective Date.
      • As a pre-requisite to the proposed transaction, shareholders of HODL must approve the proposed subscription.
      • The share warrants must be issued and allotted to Matador in dematerialized form within 15 days of shareholders’ approval, which time period may be extended for receipt of regulatory approvals as permitted under law.
      • The post-issue shareholding of Matador will not exceed 24.95% on a fully diluted basis unless waived in writing.

    Deven Soni, CEO of Matador Technologies Inc., commented: “This strategic investment in HODL underscores our commitment to expanding our footprint in high-growth markets and advancing the adoption of digital asset-centric financial strategies. By partnering with HODL, we are poised to deliver innovative digital asset solutions to the Indian market, aligning with our mission to drive global financial inclusion through decentralized technologies.”

    Mark Moss, Chief Visionary Officer of Matador Technologies Inc., commented: “At Matador, we believe the next wave of global financial infrastructure will be built on digital assets. By aligning with HODL, we’re not just expanding geographically—we’re expanding the reach of the digital assets’ ecosystem into a key innovation hub.”

    For additional information, please contact:

    Media Contact:
    Sunny Ray
    President
    Email: sunny@matador.network
    Phone: 647-496-6282

    About Matador Technologies Inc.
    Matador Technologies Inc. is a publicly traded Bitcoin ecosystem company that holds Bitcoin as its primary treasury asset and builds products to enhance the Bitcoin network. Through a self-reinforcing model that combines strategic Bitcoin accumulation, Bitcoin-native product development, and participation in digital asset infrastructure, Matador aims to grow long-term shareholder value without dilution.

    The Company’s flagship offering, the Digital Gold Platform, allows users to buy, sell, and trade 1-gram gold units inscribed as Bitcoin Ordinals—bridging traditional value with decentralized technology. With a Bitcoin-first strategy, a debt-free balance sheet, and a clear focus on innovation, Matador is helping shape the future of financial infrastructure on Bitcoin.

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

    NEITHER THE 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.

    This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities in any jurisdiction.

    Forward Looking Statements – Certain information set forth in this news release may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties, including risks associated with the implementation of the Company’s treasury management strategy, risks relating to whether the transaction with HODL will be concluded as currently proposed or at all, risks relating to the receipt of applicable regulatory approvals and the launch of the Company’s mobile application as currently proposed or at all. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the control of the Company, including with respect to the potential acquisition of digital assets and/or US dollars, the pricing of such acquisitions and the timing of future operations. Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Are solar panels worth the investment? Yes — usually — but it depends where you live

    Source: – Press Release/Statement:

    Headline: Are solar panels worth the investment? Yes — usually — but it depends where you live

    “I’ve got half my garage covered (with solar panels) because that’s the south-facing roof, and then a third of my main roof covered, that’s my southwest-facing side of the building. That’s what captures the most amount of sun, so you get the most bang for your buck,” said Phil McKay at CanREA. Read more!
    The post Are solar panels worth the investment? Yes — usually — but it depends where you live appeared first on Canadian Renewable Energy Association.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: SA marks one year of GNU

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, announced that South Africa is commemorating one year since the National and Provincial Elections in 2024, which resulted in no political party winning an outright majority.

    “The period created much uncertainty for South Africa and her people. Today, as the Government of National Unity (GNU), we are proud that we were able to form a government within 14 days, an outstanding achievement given the period taken by some first world countries to form a government in similar situations,” the Minister said on Thursday. 

    Briefing the media following the Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, Ntshavheni outlined the outcomes of the gathering and stated that this milestone represents a renewed commitment to stability, collaboration, and inclusive governance. 

    Ntshavheni emphasised that this historic partnership, which includes 10 political parties, showcases the importance of prioritising the needs of South Africa and its people, by placing the nation first.

    “Through constructive dialogue and compromise, the parties have worked together to address pressing issues, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose, despite our different ideological outlook.” 

    Announcing his new Cabinet last year, President Cyril Ramaphosa said the establishment of the GNU in its current form was unprecedented in the history of the country’s democracy.

    The President said: “We have had to consider how to form the new government in a manner that advances the national interest, that gives due consideration to the outcome of the election and that makes use of the respective capabilities within each of the parties.”

    The President added that all the political parties who were members of the GNU had committed to respecting the Constitution, promoting accountable and transparent governance, evidence-based policy and decision-making, as well as the professionalisation of the public service, integrity and good governance. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Cabinet welcomes the launch of Operation New Broom

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Thursday, May 29, 2025

    Cabinet has welcomed the launch of Operation New Broom, the latest technology-driven initiative by the Department of Home Affairs to combat illegal immigration.

    Home Affairs Minister, Dr Leon Schreiber, launched the initiative last week.

    READ I Home Affairs launches programme to tackle illegal immigrants challenge

    Addressing the media in Cape Town on Thursday, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said this demonstrated government’s commitment to fighting crime and maintaining the rule of law. 

    Ntshavheni explained that the initiative uses technology to arrest, convict and deport illegal immigrants from the country.

    “The operation, has in its first phase, led to the arrest of 25 suspects who occupied land illegally in District 6, Cape Town,” Ntshavheni said.

    Ntshavheni said the initiative uses biometric technology to verify the immigration status of suspects, eliminating the risk of fraudulent documents and making it easier for the courts to conclude cases.

    The first operation which is part of an ongoing nationwide campaign occurred in District 6 in Cape Town on 21 May 2025.

    The Minister believes that the department’s commitment to digital transformation is being felt across all areas of Home Affairs’ mandate, including through the strides made by the Border Management Authority (BMA) at the borders and inland.

    “As with everything else we do, Operation New Broom is guided by our commitment to the rule of law. It is this commitment that both motivates us to do more to combat illegality and to uphold due process and legal compliance in the process,” Schreiber said at the time. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Cabinet welcomes reset of SA-US Relations

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Cabinet has welcomed the reset of strategic relationships between South Africa (SA) and the United States (US) during President Cyril Ramaphosa’s working visit to the United States of America.

    Speaking during a post-Cabinet briefing in Cape Town on Thursday, Minister in The Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said the SA and US teams will finalise the details of the trade deal between the two countries. 

    “It is safe to emphasise that the objectives that SA had set for the trip have been met. Cabinet looks forward to the continued participation of the US administration in the G20, including the possible attendance of President Trump to the G20 Leaders’ Summit,” the Minister said.

    President Cyril Ramaphosa concluded a working visit to Washington DC in the United States last week Wednesday. The meeting at the Oval House was attended by senior US and South African officials. 

    READ I SA and US have ‘everything to gain’ from closer relations

    The South African delegation consisted of several Cabinet Ministers, notable business figures, and prominent South Africans.

    President Ramaphosa was flanked by the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola, Minister Ntshavheni, Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau, and Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen. 

    In addition, the President was accompanied by Johann Rupert, the Founder of Richemont and Chairman of Remgro. Vice President of Business Unity South Africa (BUSA) Adrian Gore and President of the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) Zingiswa Losi also formed part of the delegation.

    South African pro golfers Ernie Els and Retief Goosen were also in attendance. 

    President Trump was flanked by several key officials including Vice President JD Vance, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau, Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, Special Government Employee Elon Musk, and Dr Massad Boulos, who serves as a Senior Advisor for Africa as well as on Arab and Middle Eastern Affairs.

    South Africa – France Relations

    Cabinet has also welcomed the working visit by Deputy President Paul Mashatile aimed at strengthening relations between South Africa and France. 

    READ I Deputy President concludes working visit to France

    The Deputy President and the SA delegation also attended the SA-France Investment Conference with a view to improving investments by French Companies into South Africa and vice versa and also establishing partnerships between South African and French companies in joint investments through the African Continental Free Trade Area. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Cabinet welcomes progress at sustainable infrastructure development symposium

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Cabinet has welcomed the successful conclusion of the Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium South Africa (SIDSSA) 2025, held in Cape Town, from 26 to 27 May 2025. 

    The two-day symposium brought together government leaders, infrastructure funding representatives, construction sector representatives and technical experts to discuss and share strategies and best practices for infrastructure development in the country. 

    The Symposium saw the unveiling of the country’s second edition of the construction book: “A Repository Of Funded Infrastructure Projects” for procurement in 2025/2026. 

    During the symposium, the new top seven (7) infrastructure project priorities, stemming from Bid Window 1 for project preparation, were announced, uplifting the nation’s drive to use infrastructure to grow the economy, create jobs and build sustainable communities.

    “The total value of projects currently in construction in the country is over R313.5 billion, while our energy sector infrastructure project pipeline includes R180 billion of embedded generation investment,” Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, said during a post-Cabinet media briefing on Thursday. 

    The new top seven infrastructure priorities for 2025/26 as announced by Infrastructure South Africa (ISA) are:

    • Boegoebaai Port and Rail Development in the Northern Cape;
    • Project Alpha 300MW Gas to Power Project;
    • City of Ekurhuleni Wastewater Conveyance and Treatment System Regionalisation;
    • Coega SEZ 100MW Solar Farm – ground mount;
    • South Africa Water Reuse Programme (WRP);
    • ⁠Regional Energy Infrastructure, Storage and Distribution Programme by Limpopo Energy User Association; and
    • ⁠Gauteng Urban Upgrade Programme, Johannesburg CBD.

    On Tuesday, SAnews spoke to the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson who said that South Africa is on a path of accelerated progress with infrastructure development fuelling economic growth and job creation. 

    Macpherson cited the second edition of the Construction Book which showcases 250 fully funded infrastructure projects – worth at least R238 billion – as one example of government’s commitment to turning South Africa into a construction site.

    “We are actively putting our money into those projects to ensure that they are prepared on time and on budget and that they have the best chance of success. We heard from the President and his commitment to driving infrastructure growth in the country, the R1 trillion that’s been committed by Minister [Enoch] Godongwana in the budget, record levels of investment in public infrastructure.

    “You can start to see that this country is on the move, that infrastructure is at the heart of our growing economy and job creation plans,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Cabinet affirms its support for the 2025 National Budget

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Thursday, May 29, 2025

    Cabinet has affirmed its support for the 2025 National Budget tabled by the Minister of Finance on Wednesday, 21 May 2025, which details key spending priorities over the next three years within the country’s fiscal envelope.

    Speaking during a post-cabinet briefing on Thursday, Minister in The Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said the National Budget has demonstrated government’s commitment to fiscal discipline. 

    “We have shown that we are steering the economy in a way that looks after the most vulnerable in our society, while investing in economic activity through investment of R1 trillion towards infrastructure over the coming three years.

    “This pro-poor budget, means on every Rand, 61 cents of consolidated, non-interest expenditure funds will be spent on free basic services like electricity, water, education, healthcare, affordable housing, as well as social grants for those in need,” the Minister said in Cape Town.

    Finance Minister, Enoch Godongwana, returned to Parliament last week to re-table the 2025 Budget Review. 

    This decision follows the Minister’s recent announcement and subsequent request to the Speaker of the National Assembly to maintain the Value-Added Tax rate at its current level of 15 percent, reversing the previously proposed 0.5 percentage point increase presented in the 12 March budget.

    The National Treasury previously said that the revised budget will adhere to all established technical processes and consultations as set out in the Money Bills and Related Matters Act.

    This includes formal consultations with the Financial and Fiscal Commission, thorough consultations with all political parties within the Government of National Unity as well as Cabinet approval before presentation to Parliament.  – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Deputy President calls for national dialogue to address SA’s challenges

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    South Africa is encountering significant challenges that demand an immediate national dialogue. 

    This is according to the Deputy President Paul Mashatile, who responded to oral questions from Members of Parliament in the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) in Cape Town, on Thursday afternoon. 

    The Deputy President addressed questions regarding issues related to South Africa’s Social Cohesion Index (SASCI) research report, and the planned national dialogue.

    During a question-and-answer session about the 2024 SACSI, the Deputy President highlighted the country’s achievements over 30 years of democracy, while acknowledging significant ongoing challenges.

    The study indicated that the most notable decline was in the cohesion dimension, which pertains to respect for social rules.

    Trust in institutions and perceptions of fairness have weakened, while levels of solidarity and helpfulness have remained stable. 

    However, civic participation and general trust in others have shown slight improvements.

    “SASCI research report offered us a sense of where we stand as a country in our collective journey towards coercion and nation building equally, the index offers valuable insights into the nation’s strength and challenges, highlighting areas of progress and those requiring urgent attention,” he told MPs. 

    Guided by the index, he said, government is now developing targeted strategies and policies that promote inclusivity, equity and tolerance amongst all citizens, thereby enhancing society’s overall wellbeing.

    He also welcomed the report’s observation that South Africa has made significant strides towards building a united, non-racial and non-sexist society and improving the lives of all its people.

    “In this regard, we have worked together to establish a progressive constitutional order, expand access to social infrastructure and services to millions of people and set our economy on a path of reform.” 

    Despite the considerable progress, South Africa has achieved in creating a society that is both non-racial and non-sexist. 

    The Deputy President believes the country is currently at a critical juncture.

    He said the persistent economic challenges, social discontent, and historical inequalities, continue to pose significant obstacles.

    “The political environment is conflictual. The economy is not growing fast enough. Poverty is widespread, and there is a growing sense of social discontent and alienation. It is time to reset and reimagine our country for posterity. This must be done by South African citizens themselves through a process of purpose-directed, [and] courageous conversations.”

    According to the Deputy President, government plans to initiate a comprehensive national dialogue focusing on key areas. 

    “Hence, they envisage a national dialogue that will focus on the following critical areas.”

    The key focus will be economic transformation, inclusion and empowerment, poverty, inequality, and hunger. 

    In addition, the dialogue will zoom in on governance and a capable, ethical developmental state, addressing crime and lawlessness, promoting nation-building and social cohesion, and advancing constitutional rights and principles. 

    The platform will also involve encouraging progressive values, such as moral regeneration, participatory democracy, and active citizenry.

    In addition, addressing land reform and food security is a top priority on the agenda.

    “Honourable Chairperson, in addition to these critical matters, we are also addressing social ills such as gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), racism, crime, and corruption in support of promoting and strengthening social cohesion.”

    Meanwhile, he said government remains committed to implementing transformative legislation, including Black Economic Empowerment policies and land reform initiatives. 

    The Deputy President stressed that any changes to existing laws, must go through proper parliamentary processes.

    The address signals the government’s intention to address social cohesion through targeted strategies, community dialogues, and a renewed focus on constitutional principles and inclusive development. – SAnews.gov.za
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Employment Services Amendment Bill approved for submission to Parliament

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Thursday, May 29, 2025

    Cabinet has approved the Employment Services Amendment Bill for submission to Parliament, at its meeting held in Cape Town on Wednesday.

    The Bill provides a policy framework and the legal basis to regulate the employment of foreign nationals in businesses while promoting national security and national interests.

    Addressing the media in Cape Town this morning, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said the purpose of the Bill is to propose the regulation of labour brokers to prevent worker exploitation, such as the provision of cheap labour through undocumented foreign nationals. 

    “It further creates consistency between the provisions of the Immigration Act, (Act 13 of 2002) and the Refugees Act (Act 130 of 1998),” Ntshavheni said.

    She said the Bill proposes a framework that will enable the Minister of Employment and Labour to set quotas for the employment of foreign nationals. 

    “A quota may apply in respect of a sector of the economy, an occupational category or a geographical area. The Minister will establish a quota in a sector after consulting the Employment Services Board and considering public comments.

    “Cabinet directed the Minister of Employment and Labour to speedily finalise the mapping (through consultations) of what constitutes scarce and critical skills in order to develop a domestic skills base to improve absorption of more unemployed South Africans,” Ntshavheni said.

    The Minister said Cabinet has reiterated the need to fast-track the finalisation of the White Paper on Immigration for the effective administration and management of labour migration. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Reserve Bank cuts repo rate by 25 basis points

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The South African Reserve Bank’s (SARB) Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) has decided to reduce the repo rate by 25 basis points, with effect from 30 May.

    This reduces the prime lending rate from banks to 10.75 %. 

    Five members favoured this action, while one preferred a cut of 50 basis points.

    “Looking forward, we have revised down our inflation forecasts. This reflects the lower starting point, as well as a stronger exchange rate assumption and lower world oil prices. 

    “These factors offset pressure on fuel costs from the higher fuel levy announced in the Budget. In addition, our previous forecast included VAT increases, which have since been cancelled,” SARB Governor Lesetja Kganyago said on Thursday, while delivering the Monetary Policy Committee statement.

    The inflation was below 3% again in April. The undershoot of the target mainly reflects falling fuel costs, but underlying inflation is also well contained. Core inflation came in at 3%, at the bottom of SARB target range.

    “Now that inflation has slowed, we have a chance to lock in lower inflation at low cost. This scenario illustrates that opportunity,” Kganyago said.

    While the inflation outlook appears benign, the MPC considered an adverse scenario, which illustrates the upside risks. 

    “This was based on a global slowdown, triggered by escalating trade tensions, where the rand depreciates sharply. The scenario showed how a country with some fundamental vulnerabilities, like South Africa, risks stagflation, with growth moving lower while inflation rises due to currency weakness. In these conditions, monetary policy tightens to stabilise the macroeconomy.

    “The threat of rand depreciation that we warned of at our last meeting, given both global and domestic factors, manifested last month, with the currency briefly touching a multi-year low against the US dollar. However, the exchange rate has since recovered, and conditions seem more settled than they did in March, even if the global environment remains uncertain,” he said.

    The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) projections were trimmed and the growth was currently expected at 1.2% this year, rising to 1.8% by 2027.

    “The global environment remains difficult, which makes domestic reform critical for achieving healthy growth. The SARB’s main contribution is to deliver price stability, and we see scope to lock in low inflation and clear the way for sustainably lower interest rates. 

    “Additional measures that would improve economic conditions include reaching a prudent public debt level, further repairing and strengthening network industries, lowering administered price inflation, and keeping real wage growth in line with productivity gains,” Kganyago said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Cabinet approves National Labour Migration Policy 2025 White Paper

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Cabinet has approved the National Labour Migration Policy (NLMP) White Paper 2025 for implementation, marking a significant step in regulating the movement and employment of foreign nationals in South Africa.

    Speaking during a post-Cabinet media briefing on Thursday, Minister in The Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni explained that the policy seeks to provide a framework to enforce proper and orderly movement and employment of foreign nationals in the country. 

    “It aims to achieve a balance across several areas, including addressing South Africans’ expectations for job prospects, in light of rising unemployment and the perception that foreign nationals restrict labour market access,” the Minister said. 

    The NLMP introduces quotas on the total number of documented foreign nationals with work visas that can be employed in major economic sectors such as agriculture, hospitality and tourism, as well as construction, among others. 

    “The policy complements other interventions such as enforcement of a list of sectors where foreign nationals cannot be allocated business visas and amendments to the National Small Enterprise Act, 1996 (Act 102 of 1996), as amended, to limit foreign nationals establishing small, medium and micro enterprises, and trading in some sectors of the economy,” Cabinet explained.

    What is the policy all about?

    The NLMP is the first comprehensive National Labour Migration Policy aimed at managing labour migration both into and out of the country. 

    The policy is designed to promote a “brain gain” by attracting skilled workers to South Africa, while also addressing the “brain drain” caused by the emigration of skilled professionals.

    The Employment Services Amendment Bill goes hand-in-hand with the NLMP and has been created to make it legal for the government to regulate the employment of immigrants in South African businesses.

    One of the bill’s more contentious features is the potential introduction of employment quotas, which would limit the number of immigrants that businesses can hire and require employers to prioritise the hiring of South African citizens. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: President establishes commission of inquiry into delay in TRC cases

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed a proclamation for the establishment of a judicial commission of inquiry to determine whether attempts were made to prevent the investigation and prosecution of apartheid-era crimes.

    In a statement on Thursday, The Presidency said the commission will be chaired by retired Constitutional Court Judge Sisi Khampepe, who will be assisted by retired Northern Cape Judge President Frans Diale Kgomo and Adv Andrea Gabriel SC.

    The establishment of the commission of inquiry is part of an agreement reached in settlement discussions in a court application brought by families of victims of apartheid-era crimes. 

     “For many years, there have been allegations of interference in these cases. This alleged interference is seen as the cause of an unacceptable delay in the investigation and prosecution of brutal crimes committed under apartheid. This has caused the families of victims great anguish and frustration. 

     “All affected families – and indeed all South Africans – deserve closure and justice. A commission of inquiry with broad and comprehensive terms of reference is an opportunity to establish the truth and provide guidance on any further action that needs to be taken,” President Ramaphosa said. 

     The commission must inquire into, make findings, report on and make recommendations on:

    • Whether, why, to what extent and by whom attempts were made to influence members of the South African Police Service or National Prosecuting Authority not to investigate or prosecute cases identified by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission;
    • Whether any members of the SAPS or the NPA improperly colluded with such attempts to influence or pressure them;
    • Whether any action should be taken by an Organ of State, including possible further investigations or prosecutions, of persons who may have acted unlawfully;
    • Whether the payment of any amount in constitutional damages to any person is appropriate. 

    The Presidency said the commission will cover the period from 2003 to the present.

    Interested parties include victims or families of victims in TRC cases who have a substantial interest in these matters, including parties in the current application proceedings against the President and government.

    The commission will be expected to complete its work within six months from the date of this proclamation and submit its report within 60 days after the completion of its work.

    While the families of victims and government have agreed to the establishment of the Commission of Inquiry, the Presidency said they were not able to reach a settlement on other matters in the application.  

    Government believes that these matters will be addressed through the commission of inquiry while the families want the matters to be determined by a court.

    The Presidency added that the President respects the decision of the families to seek a court order on the violation of their rights and constitutional damages through the courts. 

    However, government is seeking a stay of application on these outstanding matters pending the conclusion and outcomes of the commission of inquiry.

     “As the commission undertakes this important task, we welcome the firm commitment by the NPA and the South African Police Service to investigate and, where appropriate, to prosecute the outstanding TRC cases. In recent years, the NPA has reopened and pursued priority cases. It has assigned dedicated resources to ensure these cases are dealt with effectively.

     “As this government, we are determined that those individuals responsible for apartheid crimes and who were not granted amnesty by the TRC be held to account,” President Ramaphosa said.

    The President added that this commission of inquiry is an opportunity to draw a line under a painful period in the country’s history. 

    “It is an opportunity to establish the truth and take steps, to the extent possible, to put right what may have gone wrong. I thank the Commission chairperson and two assistants for agreeing to take on this responsibility and wish them well in their work,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Bean Announces Launch of Congressional App Challenge to Inspire the Next Generation of Innovators

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Aaron Bean Florida (4th District)

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Congressman Aaron Bean (FL-04) today announced the launch of the 2025 Congressional App Challenge (CAC) for Florida’s Fourth Congressional District. 

    The annual competition challenges students to create an original software application.  The winner will be eligible to have their app displayed in the U.S. Capitol, featured on the U.S. House of Representatives website, and will be invited to attend the #HouseofCode Capitol Hill reception.

    “The Congressional App Challenge is an exciting opportunity for students to explore the world of coding, creativity, and innovation. By participating, young innovators can develop original apps that solve real-world problems, sharpen their STEM skills, and become the tech leaders of tomorrow. I encourage all eligible students to take part in this competition and turn their ideas into reality. The future of innovation starts with you,” said Congressman Bean.

    OVERVIEW

    The Congressional App Challenge is an opportunity for students to test their abilities in coding and computer science, hone their skills in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) disciplines, and begin exploring potential future career paths.

    The Congressional App Challenge is open to all middle and high school students in the Fourth Congressional District.  Students may begin registering for the event today on the Congressional App Challenge website. The deadline to submit an original app is October 30, 2025.

    For complete details about the rules and requirements, please click HERE.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • Since January, 1,080 Indians deported from US; 62% returned on commercial flights, says MEA

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday said that since January 2025, around 1,080 Indians have been deported from the United States, with approximately 62 per cent returning on commercial flights. 

    Speaking at the weekly media briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “We have close cooperation between India and the United States on migration issues, on the deportation of Indian nationals who are either in illegal status there or who travel illegally. We take them back once we receive details about them.”

    He added, “The update on the numbers is that since January 2025, around 1,080 Indians have returned or been deported from the United States. Of these, about 62 per cent have come on commercial flights.”

    Jaiswal also addressed reports about updated US government guidance on Student and Exchange Visitor visa applicants. The MEA said the welfare of Indian students abroad remains a top priority and that India will continue to monitor developments closely.

    “While the issuance of visas is a sovereign function, we hope Indian students’ applications will be considered on merit and they will be able to join their academic programmes on time,” he said.

    On Wednesday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio ordered US embassies and consulates to stop scheduling new visa interviews for student applicants. This move is part of the Trump administration’s plan to enforce stricter vetting, including reviewing applicants’ social media profiles, according to a report by Politico.

    The directive, detailed in a cable obtained by Politico, will expand social media screening requirements for foreign student and exchange visitor visa applicants.

    “Effective immediately, in preparation for an expansion of required social media screening and vetting, consular sections should not add any additional student or exchange visitor (F, M, and J) visa appointment capacity until further guidance is issued septel, which we anticipate in the coming days”, the cable states. (“Septel” refers to a separate telegram in State Department terminology.)

    While the cable does not specify the type of social media activity under review, it cites executive orders targeting counterterrorism and antisemitism, the report added.

    ANI

  • MIL-OSI Canada: The NFB at the 2025 Annecy International Animation Film Festival. An opening-night film, three shorts in official competition, activities at the film market and more.

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    May 28, 2025 – Montreal – National Film Board of Canada (NFB)

    The National Film Board of Canada (NFB) is back at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival (June 8–14), with a strong presence throughout the event. Three NFB short films have been selected for the official competition, including the eagerly awaited The Girl Who Cried Pearls (La jeune fille qui pleurait des perles) by the Oscar-nominated duo of Chris Lavis and Maciek Szczerbowski (Madame Tutli-Putli). It will screen as a world premiere on the festival’s opening night.

    The NFB will also be taking part in the Annecy International Animation Film Market (MIFA).

    The NFB at the 2025 Annecy festival

    • The Girl Who Cried Pearls (La jeune fille qui pleurait des perles) by Chris Lavis and Maciek Szczerbowski (opening-night film, official competition, world premiere)
    • Two other films in official competition: Bread Will Walk (Le pain se lève) by Alex Boya and Hairy Legs (Poil aux jambes) by Andrea Dorfman
    • MIFA: Telefilm Canada / NFB networking event and panel on Canadian animation, with Suzanne Guèvremont, Government Film Commissioner and Chairperson of the NFB, in attendance

    SHORT FILMS – OFFICIAL COMPETITION

    The Girl Who Cried Pearls (La jeune fille qui pleurait des perles) by Chris Lavis and Maciek Szczerbowski (NFB, 16 min) – OPENING-NIGHT FILM AND WORLD PREMIERE
    Press kit: mediaspace.nfb.ca/epk/the-girl-who-cried-pearls
    First screening: Sunday, June 8, 8:30 p.m. (Short Films Official 1)

    • A haunting fable about a girl overwhelmed by sorrow, the boy who loves her, and how greed leads good hearts to wicked deeds. The film was presented at a Work in Progress at Annecy in 2023. With the voice of: Colm Feore. Original Music: Patrick Watson. Sound Designer: Olivier Calvert. Artistic Director: Brigitte Henry.

    Bread Will Walk by Alex Boya (NFB, 11 min 18 s)
    Press kit: mediaspace.nfb.ca/epk/bread-will-walk
    First screening: Friday, June 13, 3:30 p.m. (Short Films Official 6)

    • A devoted sister flees with her brother, a benevolent, bread-turned zombie. A mob pursues, mouths agape. Streets twist into mazes, reason dissolves, hunger reigns. Can love defy appetite? The film was just featured as part of the Directors’ Fortnight in Cannes. Actor Jay Baruchel voices all the characters in the original English version.

    Hairy Legs (Poil aux jambes) by Andrea Dorfman (NFB, 17 min)
    Press kit: mediaspace.nfb.ca/epk/hairy-legs
    First screening: Wednesday, June 11, 3:30 p.m. (Short Films Official 4)

    • Deciding not to shave her legs at 13 led a young Andrea Dorfman to question and ultimately defy society’s expectations. The film received an Honourable Mention for the DGC Award for Best Canadian Animation at the Ottawa International Animation Festival (2024).

    MIFA

    Telefilm Canada / NFB networking event: Canada, Your Next Animation Partner
    Tuesday, June 10, 7 to 9 p.m.

    This soirée will underscore the presence of Canadian animation at Annecy and provide opportunities to develop new partnerships. With Suzanne Guèvremont, NFB Chairperson, and Julie Roy, Executive Director and CEO of Telefilm Canada, in attendance. By invitation only.

    Panel – Investing in the Future: Canadian Animation at the Forefront
    Wednesday, June 11, 10:45 to 11:45 a.m.

    This panel will bring together leaders from the Canadian animation industry as well as filmmakers presenting their projects. With Suzanne Guèvremont of the NFB and filmmakers Chris Lavis and Maciek Szczerbowski, among others, in attendance.

    WOMEN AND ANIMATION, 10 YEARS
    Thursday, June 12, 5:30 p.m.

    • Affairs of the Art (L’art dans le sang) by Joanna Quinn (Beryl Productions International Ltd/NFB, 2021, 16 min 23 s)
    • How to Be at Home (À la maison) by Andrea Dorfman (NFB, 2021, 4 min 51 s)

    HONORARY CRISTAL RECIPIENT JOANNA QUINN

    The NFB congratulates filmmaker Joanna Quinn, who this year is a recipient of the Annecy Festival’s prestigious Honorary Cristal. She will also lead a captivating masterclass during the festival, talking about her passion for drawing and animation, and sharing secrets of how she brings her characters to life.

    – 30 –

    Stay Connected

    Online Screening Room: NFB.ca
    NFB Facebook | NFB X | NFB Instagram | NFB Blog | NFB YouTube | NFB Vimeo
    Curator’s perspective | Director’s notes

    About the NFB

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Member Hoyer Opening Remarks at FSGG Hearing on the Federal Communications Commission

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steny H Hoyer (MD-05)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05), Ranking Member of the Financial Services and General Government (FSGG) Appropriations Subcommittee, delivered opening remarks at the FSGG hearing on the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Below is a video and transcript of his remarks:

    Click here to watch a full video of his remarks.

    “Thank you very much. Thank you. Mr. Carr, for being with us. We had a good conversation in my office. This probably won’t be as cordial as we were, but I’m very concerned. When Donald Trump spoke before the Congress in March, he said this: ‘I’ve stopped all government censorship and brought back free speech in America – it’s back,’ he said. Now, he also said during the campaign, to his supporters, ‘I am your retribution.’ You may remember that quote. That rang in my ears and gave me great concern.

    “The FCC’s actions the past few months make it clear just how relevant those comments were. What was once an independent, impartial agency – not always – devoted to keeping Americans connected has become, in my view, to some degree ‘the speech police,’ another cudgel in the President’s culture war. Since Trump took office, the FCC has gone after private corporations over their DEI practices. Very frankly, in my view is, that may be a practice that he can impose on the federal government, but it is not a practice that he can impose, nor should he impose on the private sector whatever the views we may hold. The agency, in my opinion, has also targeted NPR, PBS, NBC, ABC, and CBS, and other networks, apparently, who are perceived unfavorably to the President and to his policies.

    “The First Amendment, of course, is not intended to protect the president from the press. It is intended to protect the president – excuse me – the press against the government. Nor was the FCC established to act in the president’s interest, but rather in the public’s interest. Now more than ever, the American people are counting on the FCC to focus on its mission under law. Something we discussed in my office, however, was when he removed FTC commissioners, he did it because, quoting – or trying to quote – that the actions of those commissioners were incompatible with the priorities of the administration. Communications technologies that fall under the FCC’s purview are fundamental to everything in modern life. They shape our commerce, our education, our national security, our health care, and our elections.

    “In an increasingly digital world, the FCC needs to ensure that we don’t leave that behind. That means expanding – [referring to dais microphone] oh this is inconvenient – that means expanding affordable, reliable access to the internet and other crucial technology in both rural and urban areas. I represent urban and rural areas. We made a lot of progress toward closing the digital divide when the Affordable Connectivity Program funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law – legislation I was proud to put on the Floor as Majority Leader. I heard directly from my constituents, Republicans and Democrats and Republican officials. I live in a county with five Republican county commissioners. They all urged me to continue that [program] because of the very positive impact it had on my district and in that rural county in which I live. Regrettably, my colleagues across the aisle allowed that program to expire last year, raising interest costs for the 23 million households that enrolled. I still haven’t seen any plan on how we fill that void. Worse, I’ve heard rumors that the FCC spectrum policy involves auctioning off or reducing bands, including the Citizens Broadband Radio Service, which could make it even harder for Americans to get connected.

    “The FCC has a responsibility not only to help Americans access these opportunities, but also to protect them from potential perils. Every day, Americans experience robocalls and internet scam attempts that become more and more sophisticated. Their personal data falls prey to hackers and scammers. Americans need strong and savvy cops on the beat committed to cybersecurity and privacy. In my view, that is the role of the FCC.

    “Chairman Carr, I thank you for coming in today, as I’ve said, but I want to be clear that I’m worried that the FCC, and so many other elements of government that ought to be independent, are, in the President’s words – not referring to anything that I’ve referred to – but weaponizing government. The FCC’s attacks on the press and the First Amendment are troubling. So, I look forward to hearing your testimony. I will honor the Chairman’s gavel, but it requires a lot of time to make sure the FCC is doing what the American people expect it to do. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoyer Statement on the Passing of Congressman Gerry Connolly

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steny H Hoyer (MD-05)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement today on the passing of U.S. Representative Gerry Connolly (VA-11):

    “A principled institutionalist, fierce advocate for Virginians, and my dear friend from across the Potomac, Rep. Gerry Connolly was taken from us far too early. I am praying for his family as they grieve this terrible loss – America’s loss.

    “It was an honor to serve alongside Gerry in the Congress the past 16 years. He and I worked together closely to stand up for our region and our people, including our many federal workers. Never has that work been more important than the past few months amid the Trump Administration’s unprecedented purge of the federal civil service. Gerry met the moment.

    “Many politicians today say they want to make government function more efficiently, transparently, and effectively. Gerry actually did it – from championing the historic Federal Information Technology Reform Act to holding Democratic and Republican administrations alike accountable as an influential leader on the House Oversight Committee.

    “Gerry’s legacy as a pragmatic, intelligent, and honest leader and legislator is interwoven with our region but extends far beyond. Drawing on his past experience as a staffer on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, he was an important voice on foreign affairs and a staunch advocate for human rights, foreign aid, and America’s alliances with democracies around the world. As President of NATO’s Parliamentary Assembly, he reaffirmed America’s commitment to the alliance and to our mutual security obligations under Article V. In the face of Vladimir Putin’s criminal, unprovoked invasion, Gerry helped ensure that NATO moved in lockstep to support Ukraine in its fight against fascism.

    “Gerry lived a remarkable life of service. That it was cut short after his courageous battle with cancer ought to sadden every American. I grieve for him, as will so many others across the country and around the world. I wish strength to his wife, Smitty, and the rest of their family. May they take comfort in knowing that Gerry lives on in all that he accomplished to improve the lives of our people.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoyer: This Bill is One Big Backbreaking Burden on Working Americans

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steny H Hoyer (MD-05)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement this morning after voting against House Republicans’ budget proposal, which passed out of the House of Representatives early Thursday morning:

    “Yesterday, the Trump Administration put out a statement that said that voting against his ‘one big, beautiful bill’ would be the ‘ultimate betrayal’ of the president. Republicans obeyed, committing the ultimate betrayal of the American people instead.
     
    “Indeed, this bill betrays 13.7 million Americans who will lose their health insurance because of its cuts to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act. It abandons 11 million people – including 4 million children – who will go hungry because of Republicans’ assault on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). And, crucially, this disastrous piece of legislation sells out future generations of Americans, saddling them with trillions of dollars in debt. 
     
    “Today, Republicans have voted to make the most vulnerable Americans even poorer so that the wealthiest among us can get even further ahead. I hope my colleagues in the Senate vote against this abhorrent legislation, just as I did today. This is not ‘one big beautiful bill.’ This is one big backbreaking burden on working Americans.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoyer Statement on the Trump Administration’s Acceptance of a Luxury Jet from Qatar

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steny H Hoyer (MD-05)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement today after reports that the Trump Administration has formally accepted a Boeing 747 airliner from the government of Qatar:

    “It’s a sad day in America when, reportedly at the President’s request, a small but very rich Middle Eastern nation gives him a $400 million jet. Experts say that it will take two years and cost the government more than the value of the plane to bring the jet up to the standard necessary for Trump to use it.
     
    “This ‘gift’ is among the most flagrant abuses of power in American history – an act that violates our Constitution, defies our laws, and undermines our national security. The Founding Fathers are turning over in their graves.
     
    “Once again, Donald Trump shows us how he views the Office of the President of the United States of America. He sees it merely as a tool to enrich himself, his family, and his friends.
     
    “Nothing is ever free. This plane may not come with a price tag, but the person receiving it is making America and its reputation pay a deep cost. This is a sad day.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoyer Statement on Memorial Day

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steny H Hoyer (MD-05)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement today in recognition of Memorial Day:

    “Across the country and around the world, American military cemeteries serve as reminders of the tremendous price paid for the lives and liberties we enjoy today. This Memorial Day, I join in honoring the courageous service members who gave their lives to protect their fellow Americans and preserve the Republic.

    “Their sacrifice was ultimate; we must ensure that it was not in vain. Although we can never repay our fallen heroes in full, we must try by working to uphold the democracy and principles of freedom, justice, and equality for which they fought. We must also tend to those veterans who made it home – especially those who bear the physical and mental scars of war. I was pleased to bring Democrats and Republicans together to that end in the 117th Congress, helping pass the Honoring Our PACT Act to secure enhances VA benefits for millions of Veterans exposed to harmful toxins over the course of their service.

    “Our work is never finished. We must continue to stand up for our democracy, our veterans, and our military families with the same devotion displayed by the heroes we honor today. May God watch over them as they rest, and over us as we care for the country to which they gave everything.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. Energy-Related Carbon Dioxide Emissions, 2024

    Source: US Energy Information Administration

    This report highlights notable trends in energy-related carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in the United States in 2024, based on preliminary data.

    U.S. energy-related CO2 emissions declined overall by less than 1%, or 23 million metric tons (MMmt), in 2024. Among end-use sectors, the most notable decreases occurred in the residential and industrial sectors. Lower residential sector emissions were mostly due to decreases in consumption of natural gas and petroleum products primarily associated with space heating—mainly propane and distillate fuel oil. Decreases in industrial-sector emissions were associated with reduced manufacturing.

    Emissions from the commercial, transportation, and electric power sectors remained relatively unchanged but are discussed in greater detail in later sections.

    Table 1. Total U.S. energy-related CO2 emissions by sector, 2020–2024
    million metric tons of carbon dioxide
    Sector 2024 2023 2022 2021 2020
    Residential 303 313 340 325 319
    Commercial 247 249 260 245 233
    Industrial 947 962 960 977 953
    Transportation 1,848 1,851 1,842 1,807 1,630
    Electric power 1,427 1,421 1,539 1,553 1,450
    Total 4,772 4,795 4,940 4,906 4,585
    Data source: U.S. Energy Information Administration, Monthly Energy Review, March 2025, Tables 11.1–11.6
    Note: Totals may not equal sum of components due to independent rounding.

    Figure data

    Electric power emissions remained flat as decreasing CO2 from coal generation offset increasing CO2 from natural gas

    CO2 emissions from the electric power sector remained mostly flat in 2024, increasing by less than 1% (6 MMmt). Although overall electricity generation increased by 3%, or 122 terawatthours (TWh), in 2024, changes in generation sources resulted in sectoral CO2 emissions remaining near 2023 levels. Specifically:

    • CO2 emissions from coal-fired generation decreased by 3% (24 MMmt), but:
      • CO2 emissions from natural gas-fired generation increased by 4% (31 MMmt)
    • Coal-fired electricity generation fell by 3% (22 TWh), but:
      • Natural gas generation increased by 3% (59 TWh)
      • Solar generation increased by 32% (53 TWh)
      • Wind generation increased by 8% (32 TWh)

    Although growth in natural gas-fired generation exceeded reductions in coal-fired generation, CO2 emissions did not increase as much because natural gas emits less CO2 per kilowatthour than coal when combusted.

    Figure data

    Warmer late-winter and early-spring weather led to lower residential sector emissions

    Residential sector CO2 emissions declined 3% (10 MMmt) in 2024, as demand for heating decreased with relatively warm weather during late-winter and early-spring months. U.S. population-weighted heating degree days (HDDs), a measure of how cold a location is, decreased by 3% last year. Consequently, consumption of natural gas, propane, and distillate fuel oil declined, which are all key fuels in residential space heating.

    Warmer weather also led to increased demand for space cooling during warmer months. Cooling degree days (CDDs), a measure of how hot a location is, increased by 10% in 2024. However, unlike space heating, space cooling relies on electricity rather than direct use of fuels. As summer temperatures increased relative to 2023, residential sector electricity use rose. Annual purchases of electricity increased by 3%, and emissions associated with residential electricity consumption increased by 1% (5 MMmt). Overall, total residential sector emissions were lower because the decline in CO2 emissions from lower heating fuel consumption outweighed increases associated with cooling demand.

    Weather-related impacts on energy consumption and CO2 emissions in the commercial sector mirrored the residential sector but to a lesser extent. Commercial sector emissions remained effectively flat in 2024, decreasing by only 2 MMmt, as a result of lower natural gas and petroleum consumption.

    Figure data

    Industrial CO2 emissions decreased in 2024 as industrial production growth slowed

    CO2 emissions from the U.S. industrial sector decreased by 1% (14 MMmt) in 2024. Decreased emissions were mostly related to a 15% (7 MMmt) decrease in petroleum coke consumption and a 6% (5 MMmt) decrease in coal consumption. Declining emissions from these fuels is associated with minor declines in industrial activity, such as manufacturing of primary metals.

    Figure data

    Transportation sector emissions remain unchanged as increased consumption of some petroleum products offset decreases in others

    U.S. transportation sector emissions remained virtually unchanged in 2024. CO2 emissions from motor gasoline and jet fuel increased slightly, following the trend from 2023, but were more than offset by decreases in CO2 emissions from distillate fuel oil.

    CO2 emissions from motor gasoline increased by less than 1% (3 MMmt) in 2024. Despite steady increases in vehicle miles traveled, motor gasoline emissions have generally declined modestly over the last 20 years (Figure 5). These decreases in motor gasoline emissions are mostly due to higher vehicle fuel economy standards and, to a lesser extent, increased deployment of electric vehicles. Jet fuel emissions increased by 3% (7 MMmt) in 2024, mostly associated with increased air travel.

    Higher motor gasoline and jet fuel emissions were more than offset by declining emissions from distillate fuel oil, which fell by 3% (15 MMmt) in 2024. Distillate consumption declined because on-road diesel vehicles consumed less and, to a lesser extent, conventional diesel fuel was substituted for renewable diesel.

    Figure data

    We based our analysis of U.S. energy-related CO2 emissions in this report on data published in our Monthly Energy Review (MER). This initial analysis is based on preliminary 2024 data first published in the March 2025 edition of the MER. These values are subject to change as final data are published from underlying sources, according to source data revision policies and publication schedules. We expect relatively minor differences between the preliminary and revised estimates based on past years (Table 2). Supplemental analysis, figures from past reports, and a discussion of the methodology and terminology used in this report are available in the Appendix.

    Table 2. Preliminary and revised U.S. energy-related CO2 emissions estimates, 2018–2023
    Year Preliminary CO2 estimates
    (million metric tons)    		 Revised CO2 estimates
    (million metric tons)    		 Difference
    (million metric tons)    		 Percentage difference
    2018 5,274 5,269 -5 -0.1%
    2019 5,138 5,149 11 0.2%
    2020 4,571 4,575 4 0.1%
    2021 4,870 4,904 34 0.7%
    2022 4,970 4,941 -29 -0.6%
    2023 4,807 4,791 -16 -0.3%
    Data source: U.S. Energy Information Administration, Monthly Energy Review, Tables 11.1–11.6, March and September editions, 2019–2024

    Emissions values and analysis presented in this report pertain only to U.S. CO2 emissions associated with fossil-fuel combustion and non-combustion applications of energy products (for example, as industrial feedstocks). We do not include estimates of CO2 emissions outside this scope or other greenhouse gas emissions burned or released in production, extraction, or distribution of energy products. Our approach may result in discrepancies between our emissions estimates and those of other organizations, including other U.S. government agencies.

    In addition to historical estimates, we also offer short-term forecasts and long-term projections of U.S. energy-related CO2 emissions in several other data products. You can find a short-term forecast of U.S. energy-related CO2 emissions and key drivers in our monthly Short-Term Energy Outlook, which includes monthly forecasts by fuel source currently through the end of 2026 and the latest estimates of the effects of recent events on energy markets and energy-related CO2 emissions. We publish long-term U.S. emissions projections in our Annual Energy Outlook, which provides annual projections of energy-related CO2 emissions by fuel source, sector, and end use through 2050. Projections of international energy-related CO2 emissions through 2050 are available in our International Energy Outlook.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CFTC Adds 43 Unregistered Foreign Entities to RED List

    Source: US Commodity Futures Trading Commission

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — As part of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission’s ongoing efforts to help protect Americans from fraud, today the CFTC added 43 unregistered foreign entities to its Red List, a tool that provides information to U.S. market participants about foreign entities that are acting in an unregistered capacity and to help them make more informed decisions about trading. The Red List, which stands for Registration Deficient List, launched in 2015 [See CFTC Press Release No. 7224-15], and now contains almost 300 entities.
    A firm is added to the RED List when the CFTC determines, from investigative leads and questions from the public, that it is not registered with the Commission and appears to be acting in a capacity that requires registration, such as trading binary options, foreign currency (forex), or other products. The Commodity Exchange Act generally requires intermediaries in the derivatives industry to register with the CFTC. An “intermediary” is a person or firm that acts on behalf of another person in connection with trading futures, swaps, or options. Depending on the nature of its activities, an intermediary may also be subject to various financial, disclosure, reporting, and recordkeeping requirements. There are some exceptions or exemptions where an intermediary does not require registration.
    The RED List is circulated to financial industry partners, including other regulators, consumer groups, industry participants, self-regulatory organizations, exchanges, and industry associations. It complements registration information provided by the National Futures Association. 

    Abnas Global Corp.
    Abnas Global Securities Co. Ltd. 
    Abnas Global PLC
    abnasglobal.cc
     

    OX Securities Pty LtdOX Securities Limited (SV) 
    oxsecurities.com
     

    Apex Number 
    apexnumber.com

    PO Trade Ltd
    m.po.life
     

    BF Traders
    G-P Ltd.
    bftraders.com
     
     

    Prowins Binary
    www.prowins.live

    Binary Golden Options 
    bnrygoldenopts.com
     

    Smart Magnetic Ltd.
    smartmagnetic.net [email protected]
     

    Blueberry Markets 
    blueberrymarkets.com
     

    Stealth Finex
    stealthfinex.com [email protected]
     

    ElixirVest Ltd. 
    elixirvest.com

    StocktrademarketX
    Stocktrademarketx.com
     

    Equity Price Ltd. 
    equityprice.live
     

    SublimeFX
    sublimefx.comsublimefx.ca
     

    Firephoenix.com 
    [email protected]
     

    SunFX Investment Company 
    sunfx.org

    Forex4Money Trading Ltd.Forex International Gain
    forex4money.com
     

    Sway Markets
    swaymarkets.com

    ForexcellForexcellsForeXcells MKT LimitedForexcells M Group LLCForexcells Markets Ltd.AbileXAG
    forcexcells.com
     

    SwipeCoin
    swipecoin.live

    Global Buck Invest 
    globalbuckinvest.com
     

    Trade Xtix Coins Ltd. 
    tradextixcoins.com

    Global Official Trade 
    Globalofficialtrade.com

    TradeplugxTradeplugx Capital Group 
    trustplusfx.com
     

    Hotbglobal Finance Limited
    www.hotbgl.io
     

    TruBlueFX
    TruBlue FX
    Ares Global Ltd.  
    trubluefx.biz
     

    NASDAQK Limited
    nasdaqkfx.com
     

    trustplusfx.net  
    trustplusfx.net

    Optimaltradeinfo
    optimaltradeinfo

    UltimateStock
    ultimatestock.org

    See the complete list at https://www.cftc.gov/LearnAndProtect.
    The following CFTC staff members are responsible for the RED List: the Office of Customer Education and Outreach staff, and Division of Enforcement staff Michelle Bougas, and Rick Glaser, as well as former staff Erica Bodin.
    *  *  * *  *  *  *
    See CFTC’s Binary Options Customer Fraud Advisory
    The CFTC has issued a Consumer Alert to warn about fraudulent schemes involving binary options and their trading platforms.  The Alert warns customers that the perpetrators of these unlawful schemes typically refuse to credit customer accounts, deny fund reimbursement, commit identity theft, and manipulate software to generate losing trades.
    Customers can report suspicious activities or information, such as possible violations of commodity trading laws, to the CFTC Division of Enforcement via a Toll-Free Hotline 866-FON-CFTC (866-366-2382) or file a tip or complaint online.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 2025 Dickson Prize in Medicine Goes to Professor Sir Cato T. Laurencin of UConn

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    The Dickson Prize in Medicine is awarded annually to a leading American investigator engaged in innovative and paradigm-shifting biomedical research. It is an esteemed annual award presented by the University of Pittsburgh. Many recipients of the Dickson Prize have gone on to receive the Nobel Prize. Dr. Cato T. Laurencin is the founder and pioneer of the field of regenerative engineering.

    His lecture, “Regenerative Engineering: Breakthroughs in Medicine,” will be given at 2:30 p.m. on July 11 at the University of Pittsburgh, Alan Magee Scaife Hall West Wing Auditorium. It will be followed by a panel discussion and reception at 5 p.m.

    Laurencin is a University Professor (one of two at UConn) and professor of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, professor of Materials Science and Engineering, and professor of Biomedical Engineering. He is the chief executive officer of The Cato T. Laurencin Institute for Regenerative Engineering, a cross-university Institute created in his honor. At UConn School of Medicine he is the Albert and Wilda Van Dusen Distinguished Endowed Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery.

    He is the leading international figure in polymer science and engineering as applied to musculoskeletal biology. Renowned for his work in areas including biomaterials science and materials chemistry, his broad background and insight have allowed him to move research from fundamental science to applied research, to research translation and clinical treatment.

    Laurencin earned his B.S.E. in Chemical Engineering from Princeton University, his M.D., Magna Cum Laude, from the Harvard Medical School, and earned his Ph.D. in Biochemical Engineering/Biotechnology from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He completed an orthopaedic surgery residency at Harvard, where he was named Chief Resident at the Beth Israel Hospital, Harvard Medical School. A specialist in shoulder surgery and sports medicine, he completed fellowship training at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York.

    Laurencin is a fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, a fellow of the American Orthopaedic Association, a fellow of the American College of Surgeons, an elected member of the American Surgical Association and an elected member of the Association of Bone and Joint Surgeons. In orthopaedic surgery, he received the Nicolas Andry Lifetime Achievement Award, the highest honor of the Association of Bone and Joint Surgeons, the Kappa Delta Award, the highest research honor from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, the Marshall R. Urist Award, honoring an investigator who has a sustained ongoing body of research in tissue regeneration as it relates to the musculoskeletal system, from the Orthopaedic Research Society, and the American Orthopaedic Association’s (AOA) Distinguished Contributions to Orthopaedics Award with induction into the AOA Awards Hall of Fame. He is the first individual to receive these four awards.

    He is the first surgeon in history elected to the National Academy of Sciences, the National Academy of Engineering, the National Academy of Medicine, and the National Academy of Inventors.

    In 2025, he received Knighthood under the auspices of King Charles III of England by the Governor General of St. Lucia.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Oklahoma City Men Plead Guilty to Firearms Offenses as Part of Partnership Between Oklahoma City and the U.S. Attorney’s Office

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    OKLAHOMA CITY – Two defendants have pled guilty to firearms charges in unrelated cases prosecuted, in part, through a partnership between the City of Oklahoma City and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Oklahoma to enhance efforts to address violent crime in Oklahoma City.

    On March 4, 2025, a federal Grand Jury charged DAVY EUGENE KING, 52, of Oklahoma City, with illegal possession of a firearm after a previous felony conviction. King pled guilty on April 19, 2025, and admitted he possessed a firearm despite his previous felony convictions. Public record reflects that King has numerous previous felony convictions in Oklahoma County District Court, including, second-degree murder in case number CF-1990-5376, possession of a stolen vehicle in case number CF-2014-4630, attempted grand larceny in case number CF-2014-5432, and domestic abuse (assault and battery) in case number CF-2014-2946. King faces up to 15 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000 at sentencing.

    On February 20, 2025, a separate federal Grand Jury charged ROBERT DEWAYNE MAYFIELD, 23, of Oklahoma City, with unlawful possession of a machinegun. Mayfield pled guilty on April 19, 2025, and admitted he possessed a firearm which had been modified with a machinegun conversion device (MCD). When attached, MCDs convert semi-automatic weapons into fully automatic machineguns, and possession of the devices violates federal law. Mayfield faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000 at sentencing.

    These cases are the result of investigations by the Oklahoma City Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. They are being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Laney Ellis (SAUSA).  SAUSA Ellis is an attorney with City of Oklahoma City whose position is funded by a federal Project Safe Neighborhoods grant awarded to the City of Oklahoma City to enhance efforts to address and reduce violent crime.

    “This collaboration with Oklahoma City will strengthen public safety,” said U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester. “Our close partnership with the Oklahoma City Police Department is further strengthened with an additional prosecutor to hold accountable those who commit violent crimes under federal law in Oklahoma City.”

    “These prosecutions demonstrate the power of our partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to disrupt violent offenders and take dangerous weapons off our streets,” said Oklahoma City Police Chief Ron Bacy. “Together, we’re sending a clear message that we will not tolerate gun crime in our city.”

    These cases are also part of “Shots Fired” and “Project Switch Off,” the Western District of Oklahoma’s implementation of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. “Shots Fired” targets cases involving individuals who discharge firearms as part of their criminal activity, such as drive-by shootings or when shots are fired during robberies, domestic disputes, or other incidents. “Project Switch Off” targets illegal MCDs to address the significant danger these illegal devices present and to remove them from our streets.

    Reference is made to public filings for additional information.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Intoxicated driver guilty of being alien illegally in possession of firearm

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 20-year-old Honduran national who illegally resided in Corpus Christi has been convicted of being an alien who unlawfully possessed a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Josias Eliseo Ulloa-Pavon had been driving under the influence of alcohol before crashing Feb. 18. 

    Upon arrival at the scene, authorities found Ulloa-Pavon pinned inside the fully overturned vehicle. No other cars were in the vicinity. Ulloa-Pavon had red bloodshot eyes, a strong odor of alcohol and appeared unsteady on his feet, swaying as he stood. They removed him from the vehicle and placed him under arrest. 

    A search revealed a magazine containing six rounds of ammunition in his pocket. Ulloa-Pavon admitted he had a Bersa Model Thunder .380 caliber pistol in his car which law enforcement located and seized.

    Ulloa-Pavon had admitted during a previous interaction with law enforcement to being from Honduras and not lawfully in the United States.

    U.S. District Judge David Morales will impose sentencing Aug. 27. At that time, Ulloa-Pavon faces up to 15 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

    He has been and will remain in custody pending sentencing.

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives along with Immigration and Customs Enforcement-Enforcement and Removal Operations and the Corpus Christi Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary Bird prosecuted the case. 

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Illegal Alien and Prolific Drug Trafficker Convicted Following Thwarted Robbery of Rival Cocaine Supplier

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    ATLANTA – Adan Macedo-Rios, 52, of Mexico, who is an alien unlawfully present in the United States, has been convicted of charges related to trafficking in illegal drugs, money laundering, robbery, and unlawful possession of firearms.

    “Macedo-Rios, an illegal alien, distributed large amounts of dangerous drugs and laundered his ill-gotten gains through the purchase of a Georgia horse ranch. His callous and dangerous behavior—highlighted by his involvement in a plot to rob a rival cocaine supplier—was disrupted by the tireless work of our law enforcement partners,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “Through our combined efforts, we foiled the robbery plan and dismantled the drug trafficking and money laundering organization that Macedo-Rios supplied, thereby eliminating a significant threat of violent crime in our community.”

    “DEA strives every day to keep the American public safe from transnational criminal organizations,” said Jae W. Chung, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division. “This investigation demonstrates DEA’s commitment to destroying these drug trafficking and money laundering organizations.”

    “For all the innocent residents who are trying to raise families in safe communities, the FBI wants you to know that we are here for you through arrests like this,” said Paul Brown, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “Macedo-Rios repeatedly disregarded the law to enrich himself. The FBI and our partners are firmly committed to ensuring that our communities are protected from the extreme violence and lawlessness displayed by individuals like him.”

    “The conviction of Adan Macedo-Rios, an illegal alien from Mexico and prolific drug trafficker, highlights our unwavering commitment to dismantling drug trafficking organizations that threaten our communities,” said Steven N. Schrank, the Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Georgia and Alabama. “Thanks to the hard work of our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, we’ve turned his ‘stable’ of crime into a one-way ticket to accountability!”

    According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges, public record, and other information presented in court: Macedo-Rios, a large-scale drug trafficker, supplied other Atlanta-based drug distributors with at least 123 kilograms of cocaine destined for distribution throughout multiple states. In 2023, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) special agents obtained federal court authorization to intercept communications over cellphones used by Macedo-Rios and others. These intercepts led to the seizure of multiple kilograms of cocaine and other narcotics, and drug proceeds, from drug transporters working for Macedo-Rios and his conspirators. 

    Macedo-Rios remitted drug payments to his narcotics suppliers in Mexico and used proceeds of his criminal activity to fraudulently purchase an eight-acre ranch with a 24-horse stable and farmhouse in Loganville, Georgia. With his conspirators, Macedo-Rios planned the robbery of another drug supplier who was storing 65 kilograms of cocaine in his residence. Macedo-Rios and his conspirators even conducted their own surveillance of the target, including by placing a tracker on the rival’s car, and plotted to use firearms to facilitate the robbery. But their plan was timely thwarted by DEA agents, who intercepted communications about the robbery.

    When agents arrested Macedo-Rios at the horse ranch, they discovered a loaded Colt .38 pistol and a Ruger 9mm semi-automatic handgun in his bedroom, even though he was prohibited from possessing firearms due to his unlawful presence in the United States and status as a convicted felon. Macedo-Rios, a Mexican citizen, has a history of multiple deportations from the United States.

    Adan Macedo-Rios appeared before United States District Judge J. P. Boulee on May 28, 2025, and pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine, conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery, unlawful possession of a firearm by an alien illegally present in the United States, and conspiracy to commit money laundering.

    As to his drug trafficking conviction, Macedo-Rios faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life in prison, a maximum $10,000,000 fine, and a minimum of five years of supervised release. For the Hobbs Act Robbery conviction, he faces up to 20 years in prison, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release. For the firearm conviction, Macedo-Rios faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years, a maximum fine of $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release. The money laundering conviction carries a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, up to a $500,000 fine, and forfeiture of property involved in the offense. 

    In determining the actual sentence, the Court will consider the United States Sentencing Guidelines, which are not binding but provide appropriate sentencing ranges for most offenders.

    Sentencing is scheduled for August 26, 2025, at 1 pm before Judge Boulee.

    This case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from Georgia State Patrol and the Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office.

    Assistant United States Attorneys John T. DeGenova and Rebeca M. Ojeda are prosecuting the case.

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

    This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi¬ jurisdictional operations to eliminate the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations.

    The specific mission of the David G. Wilhelm Atlanta OCDETF Strike Force (Atlanta Strike Force) is to eliminate transnational organized crime syndicates and major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations in the Atlanta metropolitan area and the Northern District of Georgia. To accomplish this mission, the Atlanta Strike Force will target these organizations’ leaders, focusing on targets designated as Consolidated Priority Organization Targets, Regional Priority Organization Targets, and their associates.  The Atlanta Strike Force is comprised of agents and officers from ATF, DEA, FBI, HSI, USMS, USPIS, and IRS, as well as numerous state and local agencies; and the prosecution is being led by the Office of the United States Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia.

    For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6280.  The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.

    MIL Security OSI –