Category: CTF

  • MIL-OSI Russia: We invite you to take part in the elections of the Academic Council of the State University of Management

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    On June 23, 2025 at 14:00, a conference of employees and students of our university will be held at the State University of Management.

    There are two main issues on the conference agenda: 1. Approval of employee representatives in the labor dispute commission; 2. Election of members of the Academic Council of the State University of Management.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI: OPEC Secretary General Announced as Keynote Speaker at Global Energy Show Canada

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, May 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — dmg events is announcing that OPEC Secretary General, His Excellency Haitham Al Ghais, will make an official visit to Canada this June and appear as a Keynote Speaker at the Global Energy Show Canada (GESC) taking place June 10-12.

    Speaking as part of the Executive Conference ‘The Conversation’ hosted by Peter Mansbridge, His Excellency joins a who’s who of energy industry CEOs, policy leaders from the private sector, and ministerial and elected officials from across Canada and around the world. The convention gets set to tackle big questions and issues about what Canada’s energy mandate can look like over the next five years.

    “We are thrilled to welcome His Excellency Haitham Al Ghais to the Global Energy Show Canada this June in Calgary, for what is shaping up to be the most influential and important edition of the event in decades,” says Nick Samain, Senior Vice President of dmg events. “With pre-registration already trending close to double compared to the last edition in 2024, we expect to reach capacity attendance for this year’s conference program in the next few days.”

    This announcement comes alongside a roster of more than 150 distinguished private sector energy leaders from Canada and around the world, including: Hon. Rona Ambrose, Deputy Chairwoman, TD Securities; Stastia West, President & Country Chair and Vice President, Canada Integrated Gas, Shell Canada; Mark Maki, CEO, Trans Mountain; Mark Fitzgerald, President and CEO, PETRONAS Canada; Jon McKenzie, President and CEO, Cenovus Energy; Darlene Gates, President and CEO, MEG Energy; Nicole Bourque-Bouchier, CEO, The Bouchier Group; Clay Sell, CEO, X-energy; Luke Schauerte, CEO, Woodfibre LNG; Chris Doornbos, President and CEO, E3 Lithium; Kim Lauritsen, Senior Vice President, Enterprise Strategy and Growth, Ontario Power Generation; and Carl Marcotte, Senior Vice President Marketing and Business Development, Candu Energy, an AtkinsRéalis Company.

    Joining this roster of private sector energy leaders is strong representation from government, Indigenous, and policy leaders, including: Premier of Alberta Danielle Smith; Hon. Brian Jean, Minister of Energy and Minerals, Government of Alberta; Hon. Colleen Young, Minister of Energy and Resources, Government of Saskatchewan; Crystal Smith, Chief, Haisla First Nation; Dr. Orlando Velandia Sepúlveda, President, National Hydrocarbons Agency of Colombia (ANH); Chana Martineau, CEO, Alberta Indigenous Opportunities Corporation; Kenneth Wagner, Former Trump Administration Senior Executive at the US Environmental Protection Agency; Jason Lanclos, Director of State Energy Development and Planning, Louisiana Economic Development; Dale Hansen, Dean, McPhail School of Energy, SAIT; Justin Riemer, CEO, Emissions Reduction Alberta; Lisa Baiton, President and CEO, Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers (CAPP); Sonya Savage, Senior Counsel, Borden Ladner Gervais LLP; Marg McCuaig-Boyd, Senior Advisor, Counsel Public Affairs Inc.; Shannon Joseph, Chair, Energy for a Secure Future; Heather Exner-Pirot, Senior Fellow and Director of Natural Resources, Energy, and Environment, MacDonald-Laurier Institute; James Rajotte, Alberta’s Senior Representative to the United States, Government of Alberta; Hon. René Legacy, Deputy Premier, Minister of Finance, Minister responsible for Energy, Government of New Brunswick; Hon. Nathan Neudorf, Minister of Affordability and Utilities, Government of Alberta; Ehren Cory, CEO, Canada Infrastructure Bank; Gurpreet Lail, President and CEO, Enserva and Karen Ogen, CEO, First Nations Natural Gas Alliance.

    Delegates can expect a range of premium networking events throughout the three-day conference and exhibition including daily receptions, industry dinners, the Global Energy Show Awards, all on the backdrop of a robust exhibition featuring 500 exhibiting companies across five expansive exhibition halls.

    Exhibition hours are: Tuesday, June 10 and Wednesday, June 11 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Thursday, June 12 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Please check the website for full conference program and hours.

    Media are required to pre-register to attend the show. In order to obtain a show badge for the event, media will need to provide accreditation (a piece of photo identification and an official business card) upon arrival. The Media Room is located on Level 2, BMO Centre.

    For more information on GESC, to pre-register or to inquire about attendance, please visit https://www.globalenergyshow.com.

    For media inquiries, please contact: 
    Shauna MacDonald
    403-585-4570
    Brookline Public Relations
    smacdonald@brooklinepr.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: 100x Leverage + 100% Bonus — No KYC Needed to Trade Crypto Futures on BexBack

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, May 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As the cryptocurrency bull market charges ahead, traders are once again looking for platforms that offer both power and flexibility. BexBack Exchange is answering that call with an unmatched trio of advantages: up to 100x leverage, a 100% deposit bonus, and no KYC requirement for new users.

    This combination makes BexBack one of the most accessible and trader-friendly platforms in the crypto derivatives space.

    Why 100x Leverage Appeals to Traders

    • Amplify returns with minimal capital
    • Access larger positions for stronger market exposure
    • Benefit from both rising and falling markets
    • Enhance capital efficiency by using margin effectively

    Traders using BexBack can open positions with just 0.001 BTC and still take advantage of full leverage potential.

    How the 100% Deposit Bonus Works

    New users depositing at least 0.001 BTC or 1,00 USDT qualify for a 100% bonus. While this bonus cannot be withdrawn directly, it can be used as trading margin. In volatile conditions, this added margin helps buffer against liquidation, allowing traders to stay in the game longer.

    Profits made using the bonus are fully withdrawable.

    Read the full bonus policy

    What Sets BexBack Apart?

    • No KYC: Start trading instantly with just your email
    • 100x Leverage: Take full control of market swings
    • 100% Deposit Bonus: Double your funds for amplified trading power
    • 50+ Perpetual Contracts: Including BTC, ETH, ADA, SOL, XRP, and more
    • Demo Mode: Unlimited virtual funds to practice risk-free
    • 24/7 Support: Responsive service for users worldwide

    About BexBack

    BexBack is a global cryptocurrency derivatives exchange that empowers traders with up to 100x leverage on BTC, ETH, ADA, SOL, XRP, and over 50 other major crypto pairs. Headquartered in Singapore, the platform operates under a U.S. MSB license and maintains offices in Hong Kong, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Argentina. Known for its no-KYC policy, fast trade execution, and user-centric features like demo trading and double deposit bonuses, BexBack is trusted by over 500,000 users worldwide.

    Ready to Start?

    If you’ve been watching crypto from the sidelines, now is the time to act. Sign up, deposit, and experience the benefits of high-leverage trading — all without KYC.

    Join BexBack Today — where trading begins with freedom and scales with you.

    Website: www.bexback.com

    Contact: business@bexback.com

    Contact:
    Amanda
    business@bexback.com

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by BexBack. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/17fd1a38-100a-4304-a1d9-962a0dbb820b

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/abbf6903-ca41-45f3-8010-5bf9bee017f2

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3b820417-b7d7-475d-81c5-bfeb8e147f41

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b9e64d28-15dc-4e21-a1a3-77a34d423c8e

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Directions under Section 35 A read with Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949 – The YASHWANT CO-OPERATIVE BANK Ltd., Phaltan, Taluka Phaltan, District Satara, Maharashtra

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    It is hereby notified for information of the public that in exercise of powers vested in it under sub section (1) of Section 35 A read with Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) vide Directive Ref. No. CO.DOS.SED.No. S1580/12-22-321/2025-2026 dated May 28, 2025, has issued certain Directions to The YASHWANT CO-OPERATIVE BANK Ltd., Phaltan, (“the bank”), whereby, as from the close of business on May 29, 2025, the bank shall not, without prior approval of RBI in writing, grant or renew any loans and advances, make any investment, incur any liability including borrowal of funds and acceptance of fresh deposits, disburse or agree to disburse any payment whether in discharge of its liabilities and obligations or otherwise, enter into any compromise or arrangement and sell, transfer or otherwise dispose of any of its properties or assets except as notified in the RBI Direction dated May 28, 2025, a copy of which has been directed to be displayed on the bank’s website / premises for perusal by interested members of the public. Considering the bank’s present liquidity position, the bank has been directed not to allow withdrawal of any amount from savings bank or current accounts or any other account of a depositor but is allowed to set off loans against deposits subject to the conditions stated in the above RBI Directions. The bank may incur expenditure in respect of certain essential items such as salaries of employees, rent, electricity bills, etc., as specified in the said Directions.

    2. RBI has in the recent past engaged with the Board and Senior Management of the bank for improvement in its functioning. However, lack of concrete efforts taken by the bank to address the supervisory concerns and to protect the interest of depositors of the bank, necessitated issuance of these Directions.

    3. The eligible depositors would be entitled to receive deposit insurance claim amount of their deposits upto a monetary ceiling of ₹5,00,000/- (Rupees five lakh only) in the same capacity and in the same right, from the Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC), as applicable under the provisions of the DICGC Act, 1961, based on submission of willingness by the depositors concerned and after due verification. The depositors may contact the bank officials for further information. Details may also be accessed on the DICGC website: www.dicgc.org.in.

    4. The issue of the above Directions by the RBI should not per se be construed as cancellation of the banking license by RBI. The bank will continue to undertake banking business subject to restrictions specified in the said Directions till its financial position improves. The RBI continues to monitor the position of the bank and will take necessary actions including modifications of these Directions, as warranted, depending upon circumstances and in the interest of the depositors.

    5. These Directions shall remain in force for a period of six months from the close of business on May 29, 2025 and are subject to review.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2025-2026/432

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Global: The Salt Path taps into a long history of searching for healing on England’s south-west coast

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Lena Ferriday, Lecturer in the History of Science and the Environment, King’s College London

    Moth Winn was diagnosed with a terminal illness at the age of 53 and in the same week he and his wife, Raynor, lost their home. As the bailiffs arrived, the couple made a remarkable decision: to take a 630-mile year-long coastal walk from Somerset to Dorset, through Devon and Cornwall.

    Their journey was first told in Raynor Winn’s bestselling memoir The Salt Path, which has now been made into a film. In The Salt Path, Gillian Anderson and Jason Isaacs portray the hardship and hope the couple experienced as they walked through sunshine and storms with little more than a tent and a handful of cash.

    But their walk is part of a much older story. Without realising it, Raynor and Moth joined a centuries-old tradition of seeking healing and transformation along the south-west coast. In the 19th century, people travelled to the coast because doctors believed coastal air and seawater could treat illness. This idea became known as “change of air” treatment and was widely prescribed to urban patients suffering from “nervous disorders”, such as stomach pains and chest issues. These seaside visits were understood as a form of medicine.


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    England’s westerly edge

    The South West Coast Path is the UK’s longest national trail. The route has over 115,000 feet of ascent and descent – the equivalent of scaling Mount Everest four times. It was officially protected in 1973 to preserve and improve access to the path and now attracts nearly 9 million visitors each year. But its origins lie in the working lives of local people, especially coastguards watching for smugglers and fishermen following pilchard shoals.

    In the 19th century, the region also became a destination for domestic tourists. It was made more accessible as passenger rail lines were extended to places including Plymouth and Penzance. Some visitors walked to explore unfamiliar landscapes, while others did so on medical advice.

    The seaside towns of Penzance and Torquay emerged as health resorts and by the first world war they were known as “havens for invalids”. Between 1800 and 1854, Torquay’s population grew from 800 to 14,000, mostly made up of medical residents on temporary stays.

    Healing in the elements

    Before the walk, Moth was diagnosed with corticobasal degeneration (CBD) after seeing a doctor about shoulder pain and tremors. CBD is a rare degenerative condition that affects the brain and gradually leads to difficulties with movement, speech, memory and swallowing.

    When he began the walk, Moth’s mobility had deteriorated and he was experiencing severe pain and numbness in his left leg. For the first half of the film, Jason Isaacs drags his foot along the ground to show this physical strain. The challenge of walking was made harder by the rugged terrain – steep hills, jagged rocks and harsh winds.

    As Moth and Raynor walked, something unexpected happened. Moth’s symptoms began to ease, his condition improved, and he eventually stopped taking pain relief. He believed the change was linked to the regular movement and the sense of purpose the walk gave them during a bleak period. He described walking as having a restorative power that offered him a new, unlicensed freedom.

    The idea that walking by the coast could have healing properties has deep roots. In the 19th century, walking was considered beneficial, but the emphasis was on gentle movement in clean air rather than endurance through rough landscapes. The air of Devon and Cornwall was praised for its soothing qualities and the climate for its warmth in the winter. Town planners even built flat promenades in seaside towns to make walking more accessible for people with chronic illnesses and low mobility.

    Spending time outside was considered particularly valuable for people suffering from tuberculosis. Before tuberculosis was known to be caused by bacteria, medical experts blamed it on bad-smelling air. Doctors suggested that city dwellers suffering with chest pains remove themselves from these dirty atmospheres and immerse themselves in the clean, salt air at the seaside.

    Nature plays a central role in The Salt Path. Its affect on the body is seen in Gillian Anderson’s sun-scorched cheeks and wind-tousled hair. The sounds of birds and the sea accompany panoramic drone shots of the cliffs. The sea is a key character.

    Arriving at Minehead, the Winns take a photo to begin their journey: of “the three of us”, the couple and the sea. Victorian travel writers also insisted that in the south-west, “The pedestrian must never wander more than a stone’s throw from the sea.”

    When Moth swims in the sea, he is empowered in his own body and able to move without constraint. The seaside has carried health connotations since the 1700s. In the 18th century, doctors claimed that sudden immersion in cold, salty and turbulent waters had therapeutic value for chronic illness. Today, open swimming remains a popular practice in the south-west and is praised for its mental and physical health benefits.

    As the film ends, we learn that 12 years after their walk Moth is still living with CBD and the couple still use long-distance walks to treat his symptoms. This experience of illness finds resonance in older practices, reminding us that healing can sometimes be found outside of clinical spaces. While the reasons for walking often change, the connection between place, body and wellbeing spans centuries. The Salt Path tells a deeply personal story but also continues a long cultural history of looking to the coastline for recovery and renewal.

    Lena Ferriday has received funding from the Arts and Humanities Research Council.

    ref. The Salt Path taps into a long history of searching for healing on England’s south-west coast – https://theconversation.com/the-salt-path-taps-into-a-long-history-of-searching-for-healing-on-englands-south-west-coast-257793

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI Global: Rise of the Zombie Bugs takes readers on a jaw-dropping tour of the parasite world

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Alex Dittrich, Senior Lecturer in Zoology, Nottingham Trent University

    A “zombie” snail infected with a flatworm JoostP/Shutterstock

    Rise of the Zombie Bugs, by Mindy Weisberger, is a non-fiction book that borrows from popular culture to make one of the most complex and grisly interactions in the animal kingdom accessible to the reader.

    From fungi and viruses that infect the brains of insects, to parasites that burst through the abdominal cavities of their unsuspecting hosts, Weisberger shows readers a gruesomely fascinating world.

    Weisberger’s definition of a zombie bug is an insect that has become host to a parasite. The parasite modifies its host’s behaviour for its own means. She affectionately refers to these parasites as “zombifiers”. This zombification can make the host more susceptible to conditions that enable that parasite to complete its lifecycle or spread.

    The author takes the reader through a taxonomic feast of invertebrates and their parasites. The idea of “host-altered behaviour” is particularly interesting here, as it shows the ends that parasites go to to complete their lifecycle and reproduce.

    For example Leucochloridium, a flatworm that turns the eyes of snails vivid colours and patterns, which makes them more susceptible to bird predation. The flatworm also makes the snail stay out in the open. Once eaten by a bird, the flatworm can complete its life cycle in the bird’s gut. And Weisberger helps the reader understand some of the complex processes that underpin this phenomenon. For example, how these parasites hijack the host’s nervous system and cause unusual behaviour.

    There are parasitic flies that disrupt the natural foraging behaviour of ants. After the fly lays eggs in the ant’s thorax, the larvae eventually migrate to the ant’s head, making it fall off. There’s also the cordyceps fungi that infects the brains of many insect species and makes them move to a better location for the fungi, such as the ends of tree branches or the tips of grass stems. A location normally treacherous to the insect – but ideal for the fungi to spread its spores. Once there, a fruiting mushroom sprouts from the insect’s head.

    An ant infected with cordyceps.
    Jojo dexter/Shutterstock

    Parasites are all around us. Weisberger reassures us that, although the grisly and fantastical world of fiction is not far removed from what we see in nature, the processes she describes in the book are natural. And indeed necessary for a healthy planet, playing a crucial role in controlling and halting pest invasions. In the insect world, they are one of the most abundant natural controls on populations of pest insects.

    Although naturally occurring populations of these parasites are not more likely to attack invasive species than native ones, we have however used them to our advantage in exploiting their behaviour to protect our crops. For example, the parasitic wasps I mentioned before are key for controlling populations of beetle pests in fruiting crops.

    Parasites and us

    The war waged on insects by their parasites has inspired a lot of popular culture, such as the chest-bursting aliens from the Alien films – rumoured to have been based on parasitoid wasps that lay their eggs inside the bodies of unsuspecting insects. The video game and popular HBO series The Last of Us imagines a world where cordyceps infect humans, not just insects.

    As someone with a soft spot for invertebrate behaviour, I am drawn into the case studies where invertebrate animals interact with each other and the decapitated ants and disco snails are firm favourites of mine.

    However, the book does end on a note of caution. The author writes a worrying footnote on rabies and Toxoplasma gondii, and the ability of both to not only cause serious harm to us but to even alter our behaviour.

    Toxoplasma gondii is a single-cell parasite that causes an illness called toxoplasmosis in humans. You can catch it from cat faeces, or from eating infected meat. It is one of the most common parasitic infections of humans and other warm-blooded animals. It doesn’t make most adults seriously ill but it can cause blindness and developmental disorders in children infected as a foetus and cause life-threatening illness in immunocompromised people.

    Toxoplasmosis has been linked to rage and suicidal behaviour in humans. Although one third of people are estimated to have been exposed to toxoplasmosis, there is still much we don’t understand about it.

    Rise of the Zombie Bugs is a fun read that would appeal to a wide range of audiences, whether you work in science and education or simply want to expand your understanding of the natural world.

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

    ref. Rise of the Zombie Bugs takes readers on a jaw-dropping tour of the parasite world – https://theconversation.com/rise-of-the-zombie-bugs-takes-readers-on-a-jaw-dropping-tour-of-the-parasite-world-256026

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why are the US and Israel not on the same page over how to deal with Iran? Expert Q&A

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Scott Lucas, Professor of International Politics, Clinton Institute, University College Dublin

    The US president, Donald Trump, claimed on May 28 to have personally stopped Israel from attacking Iran’s nuclear facilities. When asked if he’d intervened during a phone call with the Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump replied: “Well, I’d like to be honest. Yes, I did … I said, I don’t think it’s appropriate right now”. The Trump administration is currently in talks with Iran over the future terms of its nuclear programme.

    Middle East expert Scott Lucas answered the Conversation’s questions about the disagreement over Iran and how it might affect US-Israel relations.

    The US wants a nuclear deal with Iran. Israel doesn’t. Why the disagreement?

    Israel has long been sceptical of diplomatic overtures to Tehran, saying Iran is committed to Israel’s destruction. This position has not changed.

    When Trump apparently told Netanyahu recently that he wanted a diplomatic solution with Iran and believed in his ability to “make a good deal”, the Israeli leader insisted that the only “good deal” would be one that dismantled Iran’s nuclear facilities.

    But Trump’s priority is not a “good deal”. He is more interested in a photo opportunity portraying him as a “dealmaker” even when there is no substantive agreement.

    Trump’s first term saw him embrace North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, whom he had previously threatened with “fire and fury” and denounced as “little rocket man”, to proclaim a breakthrough in stalled nuclear talks. There wasn’t anything beyond a meaningless one-page memorandum, but Trump became the first serving US president to step into North Korea and garnered international attention for doing so.

    Then, at the start of his second term, Trump claimed he could end Russia’s war in Ukraine within 24 hours. But, more than four months later, he is frustrated and embittered. He recently called Russia’s leader Vladimir Putin “absolutely crazy”.

    Trump also said he could resolve Israel’s assault on Gaza. He claimed the glory of a phase one ceasefire agreement in which Hamas freed some hostages in return for Israel releasing hundreds of Palestinians detained in its prisons. But he walked away when Netanyahu’s government refused to move to a second phase.

    So now his hope, as outlandish as it might seem, is to appear alongside Iran’s president, Masoud Pezeshkian, or even the supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, making some kind of deal.

    What do the Gulf states hope for?

    Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are rivals of Iranian regional leadership, but they want to avoid Israeli military action against Tehran as this could spark a conflagration across the region.

    They are looking to extract themselves from a decade-long war in Yemen, where their intervention has not toppled the Iran-backed Houthi insurgency. And they would like space for Syria to develop after five decades of Assad family rule came to an end in December 2024 – with possible profits for Gulf companies involved in recovery and reconstruction.


    Sign up to receive our weekly World Affairs Briefing newsletter from The Conversation UK. Every Thursday we’ll bring you expert analysis of the big stories in international relations.


    Qatar, which Trump also visited in May, as well as Oman have long burnished their reputations as peace brokers. This has included facilitating talks between the US and Iran.

    What is Iran’s position and how close is it to building a nuclear weapon?

    When Iran agreed the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPoA) in 2015 with the UK and other world powers, it gave up any potential for a military nuclear programme. Enrichment of uranium was limited to 3.67%, and stocks of 20% grade were shipped out of the country. While uranium enriched to 20% is not weapons-grade, it shortens the time it will take to produce a nuclear weapon considerably.

    It was Trump who allowed Iran to restart its nuclear programme when he pulled the US out of the JCPoA in May 2018 and imposed comprehensive sanctions six months later. Iran not only resumed 20% enrichment but began production of 60% uranium, which can be further enriched to the 90% required for military use.

    Tehran is still stopping short of that 90% level. And it has said it will forego any potential for a military programme in a renewed agreement with the US, but is refusing US demands to end enrichment for civil purposes.

    What might Israel do to disrupt the talks?

    Netanyahu could defy Trump and order military strikes. But such action would further alienate Israel from the international community, unsettle relations with Washington, and risk regional conflicts that would overstretch the Israeli military.

    Israeli intelligence and military institutions have opposed Netanyahu’s plans to attack Iran in the past, notably in 2010 and 2011. When he tried to lay the foundations for military action, they raised political, diplomatic and logistical obstacles that put an attack on hold.

    And, despite Netanyahu’s attempts to replace intelligence heads and military commanders with his loyalists, the new appointees are still likely to take the same position.

    For more than 15 years, Israel has pursued covert operations to disrupt Iran’s nuclear programme. These include sabotage, cyber-attacks, assassinations and explosions set off by agents inside Iran. Those operations have appeared to diminish in recent months, but they might be renewed without raising Trump’s ire.

    How does the disagreement over Iran affect US-Israel relations, especially when it comes to Gaza?

    We are in a world where Trump can hold back Netanyahu over Iran, but give him a blank cheque for the assault and starvation of Gaza.

    Trump’s administration did nothing to oppose the Netanyahu government’s inevitable rejection of the phase two ceasefire in Gaza at the start of March. This subsequently saw renewed military operations and imposition of a blockade on humanitarian aid. Trump’s envoy, real estate developer Steve Witkoff, has been ineffectual in his purported mediation efforts.

    Netanyahu has not only tabled the plan for Israel’s long-term occupation of Gaza, with four military zones and Gazans penned into three areas with limited movement. He has publicly embraced Trump’s proposal for the displacement – some would call it “ethnic cleansing” – of hundreds of thousands of Gazans.

    In October 2024, Trump reportedly told Netanyahu to “do what you have to do” in the offensive against Hamas. Then, in mid-February, he said: “Bibi, you do whatever you want”.

    So, even as Trump does what he wants over Iran to Netanyahu’s chagrin, the Israeli prime minister is finding that Trump is not restricting what he does closer to home in Gaza.

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

    ref. Why are the US and Israel not on the same page over how to deal with Iran? Expert Q&A – https://theconversation.com/why-are-the-us-and-israel-not-on-the-same-page-over-how-to-deal-with-iran-expert-qanda-257758

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI Global: Nato faces a make-or-break decision about how to protect Europe and its future in next few weeks

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Amelia Hadfield, Head of Department of Politics, University of Surrey

    Nato is facing a pivotal moment in its history.

    Ahead of its June 24-25 summit in The Hague, Nato is weighing up whether it can truly continue to count on US support (and membership), whether it will become a European-only organisation, or whether it has a future at all. This suggests a massive shift for the intergovernmental organisation that sits at the heart of defence and security for Europe, and beyond.

    The past year has changed everything. Trump’s anti-Nato rhetoric has become increasingly vociferous and disrespectful, undermining both the organisation itself, and the other 31 Nato member countries, which include Germany, France, Canada, Turkey, the UK, Sweden and Norway. Add to this the Trump administration’s embrace of international isolationism, and the potential, consequential loss of clear US backing for the alliance, all of which highlight the organisation’s historical dependence on the US.

    This is what makes the June 2025 summit so critical. It is a make-or-break opportunity to unveil a plan for Nato’s wholesale transformation, or an event conclusively marking its obsolescence. The plan itself is simple: build – or rebuild – Nato as a possible Europe-only endeavour.




    Read more:
    Why it matters for European security if an American no longer commands Nato troops – by a former Trident submarine commander


    If this plan becomes reality, historians of European security and defence may spot earlier parallels for Nato with the original Western European Union (WEU). The WEU was the European defence security structure established in 1954 under the Paris Accords, which helped to redefine relations with West Germany.

    Ultimately subsumed into both Nato and EU governance structures, the WEU’s prime goal at the time was to bolster the European content of the Atlantic alliance.

    US never wanted Europe to lead

    There is a deep irony in Trump’s bluster about Nato states paying more towards their defence. The US has, for decades, been sanguine at best, and hostile at worst on almost every form of European defence autonomy, from basic ops-based endeavours established by the EU to more ambitious strategies. Instead, the US has insisted almost exclusively on increased defence spending by other Nato members, improved interoperability between the various national forces, but all “in furtherance of a US-dominated alliance”, rather than a more authentically US-European approach to safeguarding both European and American interests according to Max Bergman, a former senior adviser to the US state department.

    What is the future of Nato?

    If the US is now reducing its involvement in Nato, or abdicating entirely, the only option for Nato is to reduce its dependence on the US, and in doing so, to focus more on Europe. A clear mandate is needed, to ensure that being US-less does not render Nato itself useless. Without a mandate, opportunistic space would quickly open up for an aggressive Russia.

    Trump made clear early in his first administration that he was no fan of Nato, and argued that its funding structure should no longer overburden the US. In his second administration, Trump has been even clearer, has variously threatened to pull US troops from Nato joint exercises, reduce US security commitments to Nato as a whole, remove some or all of the 80,000 US troops on permanent rotation in Europe and vastly reduce the US’s contribution to Nato’s central budget of US$5 billion (£3.6 billion).

    These threats are now repeated routinely by US defence secretary Pete Hegseth and others in the Trump administration. This has profoundly rattled Nato as an institution and its individual member states.

    As Nato’s own records show, from 2023 onward, there have been major increases in European defence spending. But the opportunity to keep spending commitments high, as well as overhaul the organisation to meet Ukraine’s demands and defence opportunities for the EU as a whole – which could have been nailed onto Nato’s 75th anniversary summit in 2024 – did not materialise.

    There are pros and cons of a new Europe-focused approach for Nato, and these will work themselves out in the final five-to-ten-year plan which is being prepared ahead of the June summit.

    For some, building a European defence mission within Nato is an opportunity to plot a new and more sustainable course for Nato, rather than trying to shore up an expanding US-shaped hole. Spending increases that reduce Nato’s perceived helplessness, or reliance on the US, may also be a benefit.

    For others, the removal of US command and control, hardware, software, intelligence and much more from Nato is a futile endeavour that will leave the organisation in pieces at best, and present Russia with a golden opportunity for continued eastern aggression at worst.

    The signals from Washington remain confusing. Trump’s suggestion of a sudden and total US withdrawal from European defence was tempered in April by US secretary of state Marco Rubio’s suggestion that Trump remained supportive of Nato but also demanding expanded spending commitments (these demands vary from 2.5% to 5% of GDP), and for other members to take on far greater responsibility for developing Nato’s capabilities.

    An emerging European coalition

    Many members now support the emerging “coalition of the willing”, led by France and Britain, to underwrite a force and secure a post-conflict deal for Ukraine. In figuring out the current provision of military force, including logistics and intelligence capacities in addition to air, land and sea forces, Nato members are aiming to remove the US’s presence and fill the vacuum with European assets over a decade.

    The task is colossal, and not without risks. Nato does not want an overnight abdication of the US, as it currently relies far too heavily upon US capabilities, such as long-range precision missiles, and crucially, heavy-lift aircraft which are vital in shifting armoured forces around the continent rapidly. Nato also wants a clear plan, which new member Finland has emphasised as crucial, to prevent an abrupt and disjointed transition that Russia could exploit.

    A new vision must be set out by the end of June in order to deal sensibly with ongoing defence spending commitments, reworked governance structures, and possible planned responses to the war in Ukraine.

    Scrapping Nato is unnecessary and lays Europe – and the US, if the White House could but see far enough ahead – open to innumerable threats and consequences. Even without the US, Nato provides a valuable structure for security cooperation in Europe. Strengthening European capabilities within Nato, rather than creating an entirely new defence structure, makes sense.

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

    ref. Nato faces a make-or-break decision about how to protect Europe and its future in next few weeks – https://theconversation.com/nato-faces-a-make-or-break-decision-about-how-to-protect-europe-and-its-future-in-next-few-weeks-256348

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • We are clear that talks and terror don’t go together: MEA on Pakistan

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal on Thursday reiterated India’s stance on bilateral discussions with Pakistan, saying that the only matters left for discussion between the two countries are Pakistan’s handover of terrorists and the vacation of illegally occupied areas of Jammu and Kashmir.

     “As far as our engagement with Pakistan is concerned, our stand has been clear. Any engagement must be bilateral. We would like to reiterate that terrorism and talks cannot go together. Pakistan must hand over to India the noted terrorists, whose records and list we submitted to them some years ago,” Jaiswal said during his weekly media briefing in the national capital.

    “Talks on J&K will only be held regarding the vacation of PoK and when Pakistan hands over the territory to us. As far as the Indus Water Treaty is concerned, it will remain in abeyance until Pakistan credibly and irrevocably renounces its support for cross-border terrorism”, Jaiswal added. 

    “Just like Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, terror and talks cannot go together, terror and trade cannot go together, and water and blood cannot flow together,” the MEA spokesperson stressed. 

    ANI

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: How we protected the UK and space in April 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    How we protected the UK and space in April 2025

    This report was issued in May 2025 and covers the time period 1 April 2025 to 30 April 2025 inclusive.

    The National Space Operations Centre is led by the UK Space Agency and UK Space Command in partnership with the Met Office.

    April saw continued high levels of space activity which saw both uncontrolled re-entry and collision alerts at levels above the 12-month rolling average.

    All  NSpOC warning and protection services were functioning throughout the period.

    Re-entry Analysis

    April has seen a slight increase in the number of objects re-entering Earth’s atmosphere in April when compared with the previous month.

    Of the 92 objects that re-entered, 80 were satellites and 12 were rocket bodies.

    May: 56, June: 48, July: 44, August: 89, September: 50, October: 35, November: 47, December: 83, January: 115, February: 129, March: 85, April: 92

    In-Space Collision Avoidance

    Collision risks to UK-licensed satellites remained steady in April with a 1% increase compared with March, above the rolling average of 2,494.

    May: 2,560, June: 1,881, July: 1,795, August: 2,137, September: 3,041, October: 3,181, November: 2,722, December: 2,142, January: 2,694, February: 2,567, March: 2,588, April: 2,620

    Number of Objects in Space

    There was an increase to the in-orbit population during April, with a net addition of 118 objects added to the US Satellite Catalogue.

    A total of 231 newly catalogued objects were attributed to nine SpaceX launches carrying Starlink satellites.

    May: 28,850, June: 28,868, July: 28,853, August: 29,626, September: 29,605, October: 29,642, November: 29,781, December: 29,843, January: 29,961, February: 29,989, March: 30,090, April: 30,208

    The number of Resident Space Objects (RSOs) reported may be subject to small adjustments over time as the way objects are tracked is refined. Figures in this report reflect the most current available data and may differ slightly from those published in previous months

    Fragmentation Analysis

    There have been no new fragmentation (break-up) incidents this month.

    Space weather

    April saw a rise in space weather alerts, including multiple geomagnetic storms, with activity peaking at one strong-level storm

    Comments

    The National Space Operations Centre combines and coordinates UK civil and military space domain awareness capabilities to enable operations, promote prosperity and protect UK interests in space and on Earth from space-related threats, risks and hazards

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Peter Unwin CB named as Natural England Deputy Chair

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Peter Unwin CB named as Natural England Deputy Chair

    Peter Unwin CB named as new Deputy Chair of the government’s statutory advisor on nature

    Peter Unwin CB has been appointed as Deputy Chair of Natural England (NE).

    Peter’s term will run from 1 April 2025 until 31 December 2025. He became a Natural England Board Member on 1 June 2020 and was reappointed in 2023 for a second term of three years from 1 June 2023 to 31 May 2026.

    Natural England is a non-departmental public body, set up under the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006. Its remit is to ensure the natural environment is conserved, enhanced and managed for the benefit of present and future generations. Non-executive board members of Natural England have collective responsibility for the strategic direction and overall performance of the organisation. They make sure that Natural England is properly and effectively managed and provide stewardship for the public funds entrusted to the organisation.

    A recruitment exercise for the Natural England board is expected to start in the summer, including for a permanent Deputy Chair from 1 January 2026. Further details on board members can be found on gov.uk.

    Biography

    • Peter Unwin is an ex-civil servant with 10 years of Board-level experience as Director General at the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra), the then Department for Communities and Local Government, and a spell as acting Permanent Secretary at Defra. He worked across a wide range of policy areas, including the natural environment, climate change, agriculture, local government and planning.
    • After leaving the Civil Service in 2015, he spent four years as Chief Executive of the Whitehall & Industry Group, an independent charity promoting leadership development and understanding between government, industry and the not-for-profit sector.
    • Peter was awarded a CB for services to the environment in 2011 and is a member of the Aldersgate Group.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF and Ukrainian Authorities Reach Staff Level Agreement on the Eighth Review of the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) Arrangement

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    May 29, 2025

    End-of-Mission press releases include statements of IMF staff teams that convey preliminary findings after a visit to a country. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. This mission will not result in a Board discussion.

    • International Monetary Fund (IMF) staff and the Ukrainian authorities have reached staff level agreement (SLA) on the Eighth Review of the 4-year, $15.5 billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF) Arrangement. Subject to approval by the IMF Executive Board, Ukraine would have access to about US$0.5 billion (SDR 0.37 billion), bringing total disbursements under the program to US$10.65 billion.
    • All end-March quantitative performance criteria (QPCs) and indicative targets (IT) have been met and understandings were reached on a set of policies and reforms to sustain macroeconomic stability. The structural reform agenda continues to make progress with two structural benchmarks met, another to be completed in the coming weeks, and strong commitments to advance other key reforms.
    • The outlook remains exceptionally uncertain as the war continues to take a heavy toll on the population, economy, and infrastructure. Despite the challenging environment, the program remains on track and fully financed on the back of large-scale external commitments.

    Kyiv, Ukraine: An International Monetary Fund (IMF) team led by Mr. Gavin Gray held discussions with the Ukrainian authorities in Kyiv, Ukraine during May 20-27 on the Eighth Review of the country’s 4-year Extended Fund Facility (EFF) Arrangement. Upon the conclusion of the discussions, Mr. Gray issued the following statement: 

    “IMF staff and the Ukrainian authorities have reached staff-level agreement on the Eighth Review of the EFF, subject to approval by the IMF Executive Board, with Board consideration expected in coming weeks. 

    Ukraine’s four-year EFF Arrangement with the IMF continues to provide a strong anchor for the authorities’ economic program in times of exceptionally high uncertainty. All quantitative performance criteria and indicative targets for end-March have been met, and progress continues on the structural agenda due for this review.

    “The economy remains resilient despite the challenges arising from more than three years of war. As Russia’s war in Ukraine continues, real GDP growth is expected to remain modest, at 2-3 percent for 2025, reflecting headwinds from labor constraints and damage to energy infrastructure. Inflation has continued to rise, reaching 15.1 percent y/y in April mainly due to rising food and labor costs; inflation expectations remain anchored. The National Bank of Ukraine (NBU) has raised the policy rate by a cumulative 250 bps since December in response. Gross international reserves reached US$46.7 billion as of end-April, reflecting continued large external official support. Risks remain exceptionally high given uncertainty on the war and the prospects for peace and recovery.  

    “The 2025 fiscal deficit is large as the level of critical expenditures remains elevated as the war continues. Financing the deficit requires significant external support, notably from the G7’s ERA Initiative, whose full disbursement during the program period is critical to support macroeconomic stability and ensure the program remains financed. Risks of additional critical expenditure requirements in 2025 are high and thus the authorities need to prepare offsetting measures should expenditure shocks materialize. Beyond 2025, expenditures are expected to remain high for the foreseeable future. Consequently, it is imperative and unavoidable that the authorities sustain efforts to mobilize domestic revenues over the medium-term since external support alone will not be sufficient to finance the deficit, restore fiscal sustainability, support critical spending, and finance reconstruction.

    “Determined efforts are required to mobilize domestic revenues, tackle tax evasion and avoidance, and improve the investment climate. Broad-based, durable, and efficient revenue measures and robust implementation of Ukraine’s National Revenue Strategy (NRS) is essential. Tax policy reforms need to be coupled with improvements in tax administration and continued reforms to the state customs service (SCS) and state tax service (STS). Restoring debt sustainability hinges on this revenue-based fiscal adjustment and continued implementation of the authorities’ debt restructuring strategy, including a treatment of the GDP warrants. The upcoming 2026-2028 budget declaration is an important step to set out the strategic objectives of the authorities’ medium-term fiscal framework and policies. 

    “With rising inflation, the increases by the National Bank of Ukraine’s (NBU) to their key policy rate (KPR) have been appropriate. Additional action may be warranted if inflation accelerates further or inflation expectations deteriorate. The monetary stance should remain tight to help reduce inflation and bring it to the NBU’s target over its three-year policy horizon. The exchange rate should play a greater role as a shock absorber, as per the preconditions outlined in the relevant NBU Strategy; this will help prevent external imbalances and preserve adequate reserves, particularly given heightened risks to the outlook. The judicious and staged approach to FX liberalization should continue, consistent with overall monetary and FX policy mix to maintain adequate reserves, and measures should continue to be closely monitored.

    “Governance reforms remain essential to bolster the rule of law and increase the independence, competence, and credibility of anti-corruption and judicial institutions. Reforming the state customs service (SCS) is essential to tackle corruption and reduce tax evasion. Progress in this area requires finalizing a comprehensive reform plan—a requirement for the completion of the review—coupled with the swift appointment of a permanent head of the SCS. The recently published NABU external audit, a structural benchmark, provides an opportunity to implement additional reforms to strengthen the institution and increase public trust. Similarly, the government’s commitment to amend the criminal procedure code, also a structural benchmark, is a signal of their willingness to strengthen the anti-corruption system and meet international obligations. On SOE corporate governance, the selection of new CEOs for GTSO and Ukrenergo should proceed promptly based on a merit-based process.     

    “Effective public investment management (PIM) is critical for post-war recovery, reconstruction, and growth against a backdrop of limited fiscal space. To tackle these challenges, the government of Ukraine has made important progress in strengthening PIM frameworks, and we encourage the authorities to build on this success. A strategic, holistic, and transparent approach is essential to overcome absorption capacity constraints and allocate scarce resources efficiently. 

    “The financial sector remains stable, but continued vigilance is warranted given elevated risks. Swift action to address critical institutional challenges of the NSSMC is a priority to enhance its effectiveness, and fit and proper tests need to proceed without further delay. Developing financial markets infrastructure and associated reforms will be indispensable to attracting private sector and foreign capital to support reconstruction and recovery. Comprehensive consultation with financial market participants is essential to facilitate a prioritized reform agenda.  

    “The mission met with Prime Minister Shmyhal, Finance Minister Marchenko, National Bank of Ukraine Governor Pyshnyy, other government ministers, public officials, and civil society. The mission thanks them and their technical staff for the excellent collaboration and constructive discussions.” 

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Eva-Maria Graf

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

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/05/29/pr-25165-ukraine-imf-and-ukr-authorities-reach-agreement-on-8th-rev-of-eff-arrang

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Law Library Publishes New Report on Regulation of IVF and Related Issues

    Source: US Global Legal Monitor

    The staff of the Global Legal Research Directorate of the Law Library of Congress has recently completed a comparative report, Regulation of IVF and Related Issues. The report examines the rules regarding embryos created through artificial reproductive technology techniques, such as those involving in vitro fertilization (IVF), in the following countries: France, Germany, Israel, Italy, Poland, Portugal, Sweden, and the United Kingdom.

    VITRO by Flickr user Tman. May 21, 2021. Used under NonCommercial-ShareAlike 2.0 Generic Deed CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

    Among issues addressed by the report are the legal limits on the number of embryos that can be created or transferred in a treatment cycle and the actions that can be taken with respect to the embryos created, apart from transfer to a person’s uterus as part of that cycle. Such actions include preimplantation genetic testing, sex selection for nonmedical purposes, cryopreservation and storage, donation to another person or couple, disposal or destruction, and allowing the embryos to be used for research purposes. The report further addresses countries’ requirements for facilities where IVF procedures are conducted, registries of procedures and donors, funding of procedures, and the existence of restrictions in access to IVF procedures for certain groups of patients and couples.

    The report consists of a comparative summary, individual country surveys, and a table providing information on the legal treatment of embryos created through IVF.

    We invite you to review the information provided in our report here.

    This report is an addition to the Law Library’s Legal Reports (Publications of the Law Library of Congress) collection, which includes over 4,000 historical and contemporary legal reports covering a variety of jurisdictions, researched and written by foreign law specialists with expertise in each area. A search for legal reports on human reproduction identifies a number of relevant entries.

    To receive alerts when new reports are published, you can subscribe to email updates and the RSS feed for Law Library Reports (click the “subscribe” button on the Law Library’s website).

    The Law Library also publishes articles related to assisted reproduction in the Global Legal Monitor.

    And finally, a search of our blog, In Custodia Legis, using the term “embryo” may lead you to posts on a variety of related topics.


    Subscribe to In Custodia Legis – it’s free! – to receive interesting posts drawn from the Law Library of Congress’s vast collections and our staff’s expertise in U.S., foreign, and international law.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: Best Small Payday Loans Online No Credit Check with Green Dollar Loans

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Las Vegas, Nevada, May 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Key Takeaways

    • In this article, we are talking about Best Small Payday Loans Online No Credit Check, highlighting quick, accessible loans for those with bad credit or urgent financial needs.
    • Small payday loans typically range from $100 to $1,500 and do not require a hard credit check, focusing instead on income and ability to repay.
    • Green Dollar Loans is a trusted platform that connects borrowers to direct lenders offering no credit check payday loans with fast approval and same-day funding.
    • These loans provide fast access to cash with minimal documentation, making them ideal for emergency expenses like medical bills, car repairs, or home fixes.
    • Payday loans generally do not affect your credit score when applying, and timely repayments can sometimes help improve credit if reported to bureaus.
    • Borrowers should use payday loans responsibly by only borrowing what they can repay quickly to avoid debt cycles and high fees.
    • Alternatives to payday loans include credit union payday alternative loans, personal installment loans, borrowing from family, or negotiating payment plans, but payday loans remain useful for immediate cash needs.

    When unexpected expenses hit, like car repairs, medical bills, or urgent home fixes, sometimes you need cash fast—but your credit score might not be on your side. If you’ve been searching for the best small payday loans online no credit check, you’re in the right place.

    This article will walk you through what payday loans are, how to find the best small payday loans for bad credit, and how to get approved quickly—even if your credit history isn’t perfect.

    We’ll also introduce you to Green Dollar Loans, a trusted platform that connects borrowers to direct lenders offering best small payday loans online with no credit check, fast approval, and flexible terms.

    CHECK YOUR RATES WITH NO RISK TO YOUR CREDIT SCORE

    What Are Small Payday Loans Online No Credit Check?

    Small payday loans are short-term loans designed to cover emergency expenses or cash flow gaps, typically in amounts ranging from $100 to $1,500. They are meant to be quick fixes—small sums of money to tide you over until your next paycheck arrives.

    The term “no credit check” means lenders do not perform a hard inquiry on your credit report. Instead, they focus on your current income, employment, and ability to repay. This is particularly beneficial for people with bad credit who may have been denied by traditional lenders.

    Best small payday loans online no credit check are popular because they offer:

    • Quick approval (often within minutes)
    • Fast funding (same day or next business day)
    • Minimal documentation required
    • Acceptance of borrowers with poor or no credit history

    Why Are Small Payday Loans Online No Credit Check So Important?

    Financial emergencies don’t wait for you to fix your credit score. Whether you’re dealing with a sudden job loss, unexpected medical costs, or an urgent home repair, the need for immediate cash often arises before your credit history is in perfect shape.

    The challenge? Most traditional banks require good to excellent credit scores, lengthy applications, and extensive documentation—processes that take days or weeks and often result in rejection for people with poor credit. That’s why best small payday loans online no credit check are a game-changer, providing fast access to funds without scrutinizing your credit report.

    SEE IF YOU QUALIFY WITHOUT AFFECTING YOUR CREDIT.

    How Do the Best Small Payday Loans Online Work?

    Applying for the best small payday loans online is simple and fast:

    1. Complete a quick online application — usually takes less than 10 minutes. You provide basic information like your income, bank account details, and employment status.
    2. Get instant or near-instant approval — many lenders use automated systems to evaluate your application without pulling your credit.
    3. Review loan terms and agree — you’ll see the interest rate, fees, repayment period, and total cost before accepting.
    4. Receive your funds — most lenders transfer money directly to your bank account within 24 hours or less.

    This process makes these loans highly convenient for emergencies, especially for those who need cash fast without credit hassles.

    Green Dollar Loans: Best Small Payday Loans Online

    One standout platform offering best small payday loans online no credit check is Green Dollar Loans. It’s a reputable, easy-to-use site that connects you with a network of direct lenders specializing in loans for people with bad credit.

    Why Green Dollar Loans?

    • No credit check required: Your credit score won’t impact approval decisions.
    • Fast approval: Many borrowers get instant decisions.
    • Flexible loan amounts: Borrow between $100 and $1,500 or more depending on lender.
    • Same-day funding: Quick access to cash when you need it most.
    • Secure online process: Encrypted application keeps your data safe.
    • Tailored for bad credit: Special focus on people who have been rejected elsewhere.

    By using Green Dollar Loans, you avoid scams and get matched with lenders who offer some of the best small payday loans for bad credit on the market.

    TAKE THE FIRST STEP TOWARD YOUR LOAN TODAY.

    Benefits of the Best Small Payday Loans for Bad Credit

    1. Fast Access to Cash: The application process is quick, and funds can be deposited as soon as the same day or the next business day.
    2. No Credit Impact: Since no hard credit check is performed, your credit score won’t be hurt by applying.
    3. Easy Online Application: Apply from anywhere with a smartphone or computer—no in-person visits or paperwork piles.
    4. Flexible Loan Amounts: Borrow small amounts tailored to your immediate needs, usually between $100 and $1,500.
    5. Minimal Qualification Requirements: Income and bank account verification usually suffice, making approval easier.
    6. Helps Build or Rebuild Credit: Some lenders report on-time payments to credit bureaus, improving credit over time.

    How to Apply for the Best Small Payday Loans Online No Credit Check with Green Dollar Loans

    1. Visit Green Dollar Loans’s website: Secure and easy to navigate on mobile or desktop.
    2. Fill out a short application form: Provide basic information like your name, contact info, monthly income, and bank details.
    3. Get matched with lenders: The system connects you with multiple direct lenders who can offer loans based on your profile.
    4. Compare offers: Review loan amounts, fees, and repayment terms.
    5. Choose the best loan: Accept the loan that fits your needs and budget.
    6. Receive funds quickly: Money is typically deposited within one business day.

    Common Misconceptions About Small Payday Loans

    Myth 1: Payday loans ruin your credit.
    Fact: Payday loans usually don’t involve credit checks, so your score isn’t impacted by applying. If you repay on time, some lenders report positive payment history to credit bureaus, which can improve your credit.

    Myth 2: You’ll get trapped in debt cycles.
    Fact: Responsible borrowing is key. While payday loans have high rates, using them only in emergencies and repaying promptly can avoid debt traps.

    Myth 3: All payday loans have outrageous fees.
    Fact: Fees vary by lender. Platforms like Green Dollar Loans help you compare options to find transparent and reasonable terms.

    CLEAR UP THE CONFUSION—FIND OUT WHAT PAYDAY LOANS ARE REALLY ABOUT.

    Tips for Using Small Payday Loans Responsibly

    • Borrow only what you need and can repay.
    • Understand the full cost, including fees and interest.
    • Set reminders to repay on time and avoid rollovers or extensions.
    • Consider payday loans as a last resort after exploring other options like credit unions or payment plans.

    Who Should Consider Best Small Payday Loans Online No Credit Check?

    • People with poor credit scores who have been denied by traditional banks often find the best small payday loans for bad credit to be a reliable option.
    • Workers with irregular income, such as freelancers or gig workers, benefit from the flexibility of best small payday loans online no credit check.
    • Those facing sudden, unavoidable expenses can use these loans for fast financial relief.
    • Individuals who prefer quick, convenient online applications without the hassle of credit checks will find these loans ideal.

    Tips to Improve Your Chances of Approval

    • Provide accurate information on your application.
    • Apply for only what you need and can afford to repay.
    • Ensure you have an active checking account.
    • Apply during business hours when manual reviews happen.
    • Consider having proof of steady income ready, such as pay stubs.

    TAKE ACTION NOW TO IMPROVE YOUR CHANCES OF GETTING APPROVED

    Alternatives to Small Payday Loans Online

    If you’re concerned about payday loan costs, consider:

    • Credit union payday alternative loans (PALs) which have lower fees.
    • Personal installment loans with longer repayment terms.
    • Borrowing from family or friends.
    • Payment plans with creditors.

    But when emergencies strike and options are limited, the best small payday loans online no credit check remain a valuable resource.

    Conclusion

    The best small payday loans online no credit check offer quick access to cash, especially for those with bad credit. Using trusted platforms like Green Dollar Loans, you can connect with reliable lenders who provide fast approval and clear terms. This makes it easier to get the best small payday loans for bad credit without worrying about your credit history.

    These loans are designed for short-term emergencies, so it’s important to borrow responsibly. Understand all fees and repayment terms before accepting an offer, and only borrow what you can repay on time. Comparing options on Green Dollar Loans helps you find the most affordable best small payday loans online tailored to your needs.

    Remember, payday loans are just one option in managing your finances. Along with building savings and improving credit, they can help you handle urgent expenses. With best small payday loans online no credit check available through Green Dollar Loans, you have fast, secure access to funds when it matters most.

    GET THE SUPPORT YOU NEED—BEGIN YOUR LOAN PROCESS NOW.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    What is the easiest loan to get with no credit?
    The easiest loans to get with no credit are usually payday loans or small personal loans from lenders who don’t require a credit check. Platforms like Green Dollar Loans connect you with lenders offering fast approval based on income and banking information, not credit scores.

    Where is the easiest place to get a payday loan with bad credit?
    The easiest place to get a payday loan with bad credit is through reputable online lending platforms like Green Dollar Loans. They match borrowers with direct lenders who specialize in approving loans regardless of credit history, offering quick funding and minimal paperwork.

    Can I get a payday loan with a 500 credit score?
    Yes, many lenders offer payday loans to borrowers with credit scores as low as 500 or even lower. These loans focus more on your current income and ability to repay rather than your credit score, making them accessible even with poor credit.

    How to get a $300 loan fast?
    To get a $300 loan fast, use an online lender or platform like Green Dollar Loans. Fill out a short application, verify your income and bank account, and you could receive funds as soon as the same or next business day.

    Where can I get a $50,000 loan?
     For larger loans like $50,000, traditional banks, credit unions, or online personal loan lenders are your best bet. These loans usually require good credit, steady income, and detailed documentation. For those with less-than-perfect credit, consider secured loans or business loans with collateral.

    Mail: compliance@paydayventures.com

    Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Loan approval and terms vary by lender and individual circumstances. Payday loans and other short-term loans often come with high interest rates and fees. Borrow responsibly and consider all your options before applying. Always read and understand the full terms and conditions of any loan before accepting. Use trusted and reputable lenders only. If you face ongoing financial difficulties, seek advice from a licensed financial advisor or credit counselor.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Best Car Loan Refinance for Bad Credit: Apply with Caribou’s Auto Loans

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Laurel, Mississippi, May 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Key Takeaways

    • In this article, we’re talking about the best car loan refinance for bad credit options available today
    • Bad credit doesn’t mean you can’t refinance – many lenders specialize in helping borrowers with credit challenges
    • Refinancing with bad credit can lower your monthly payments and potentially save thousands over your loan term
    • Online marketplaces make comparing multiple bad credit refinancing offers easier than ever
    • Having a stable income and a history of on-time payments can improve your chances despite credit issues
    • Always read the fine print to avoid predatory lending practices when refinancing with bad credit
    • The right refinancing strategy can actually help rebuild your credit score over time

    Are your car payments too high and hard to afford each month? Even if your credit isn’t very good, you can still refinance your car loan. This means you get a new loan to replace your old one with better terms. Refinancing can help you save money and make your payments easier to handle.

    When you refinance, you might get a lower interest rate, pay less each month, or have more time to pay off the loan. This can help you have extra money for other things and make your budget less stressful. It’s a good idea to see if refinancing can help you manage your car loan better.

    APPLY ONLINE FOR THE BEST AUTO LOANS

    Here, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about best car loan refinance for bad credit – from understanding what lenders consider “bad credit” to comparing the best lenders willing to work with credit-challenged borrowers. We’ll also share practical tips to improve your chances of approval and help you avoid common pitfalls along the way.

    What Does “Bad Credit” Mean in Auto Loan Refinancing?

    When lenders talk about “bad credit,” they’re typically referring to FICO scores below 600. Here’s a quick breakdown of credit score ranges:

    • Excellent: 750+
    • Good: 700-749
    • Fair: 650-699
    • Poor: 600-649
    • Bad: Below 600

    With a score in the “bad” range, many traditional banks and credit unions might turn you away. When it comes to refinancing car loans, bad credit creates specific challenges:

    • Fewer lenders are willing to work with you
    • Higher interest rates than those offered to prime borrowers
    • Stricter requirements for income verification
    • Possible limitations on vehicle age and mileage
    • Potential need for a co-signer

    But don’t lose hope! Many lenders specialize in bad credit auto refinancing, understanding that credit scores don’t tell the whole story about a person’s ability to repay a loan.

    Benefits of Refinancing a Car Loan with Bad Credit

    Even with credit challenges, refinancing your car loan can offer several important benefits:

    • Lower Monthly Payments

    Refinancing often results in reduced monthly payments, either through a lower interest rate or by extending your loan term. This immediate relief can free up money for other essential expenses or debt payments.

    • Potential Interest Rate Reduction

    If your credit has improved even slightly since you took out your original loan, or if you originally financed through a dealership (which typically charges higher rates), you might qualify for a better rate now. Even a 1-2% reduction can save hundreds or thousands over the life of your loan.

    • Flexible Loan Terms

    Bad credit refinancing lenders often provide more flexible terms to fit your specific situation. You might choose to extend your term for lower monthly payments or keep a similar term but with a better rate.

    • Path to Credit Improvement

    Successfully refinancing your car loan and making consistent, on-time payments on the new loan can actually help improve your credit score over time, potentially opening doors to better financing options in the future.

    FIND AFFORDABLE CAR LOANS WITH BAD CREDIT

    Common Challenges When Refinancing With Bad Credit

    While refinancing with bad credit is possible, you should be prepared for certain challenges:

    • Higher Interest Rates

    Even the best car loan refinance for bad credit typically come with higher interest rates than those offered to borrowers with good credit. However, they may still be lower than what you’re currently paying.

    • Stricter Requirements

    Expect more thorough income verification and possibly higher income requirements. Lenders want to ensure you can afford the new loan payments despite past credit issues.

    • Equity Requirements

    Some lenders require that you have positive equity in your vehicle (meaning it’s worth more than you owe). If you’re upside-down on your loan, refinancing might be more difficult.

    • Vehicle Restrictions

    Many lenders have age and mileage restrictions. Older vehicles with high mileage may be harder to refinance, especially with bad credit.

    How to Find the best car loan refinance for bad credit

    Finding the right lender is crucial when refinancing with bad credit. Here’s how to locate the best options:

    Look for Lenders Who Use Alternative Credit Criteria

    Some forward-thinking lenders look beyond your credit score, considering factors like education, employment history, and income stability. These lenders understand that many responsible borrowers have experienced credit setbacks due to circumstances beyond their control.

    Use Online Marketplaces and Comparison Tools

    Online loan marketplaces allow you to submit a single application and receive multiple offers from different lenders. This makes comparison shopping much easier and increases your chances of finding a lender willing to work with your credit situation.

    Check for Lenders Offering Soft Credit Inquiries

    When shopping for rates, look for lenders who perform “soft pulls” on your credit rather than “hard inquiries.” This allows you to check potential rates without further damaging your credit score. Many online refinancing platforms now offer this feature.

    Prepare Your Finances to Improve Chances

    Before applying, take steps to strengthen your financial position:

    • Make sure you’re current on your existing car loan
    • Reduce other debt balances if possible
    • Gather proof of stable income and employment
    • Save for a possible down payment to reduce your loan-to-value ratio

    GET APPROVED FOR AUTO LOAN REFINANCE FAST

    Caribou Auto Loan: The Best Choice For Refinancing Car Loans

    Caribou is the best choice for refinancing car loans, especially for people with bad credit. They understand that many borrowers have faced financial struggles through no fault of their own, like job loss or medical bills, and deserve a second chance.

    Unlike many banks that only work with good credit, Caribou helps people with credit scores as low as 560. They work with many lenders who offer special programs for people with credit challenges. Their goal is to help everyday Americans lower their monthly car payments and get better loan terms.

    What makes Caribou stand out is their easy and quick online application process that only does a soft credit check, so your score won’t be hurt. Plus, every borrower gets a personal Loan Consultant who guides them through the process and offers advice on improving credit.

    Based in Colorado, Caribou has helped thousands of people save money on their car loans, with clients saving an average of $145 each month. Their personal approach and wide network of lenders make refinancing easier and more affordable for those with bad credit.

    Why Caribou As The Best Choice

    Caribou has earned its reputation as one of the best car loan refinance for bad credit providers due to:

    1. Flexible Credit Requirements: They work with borrowers with scores as low as 560, focusing on your overall financial picture rather than just your score.
    2. Impressive Savings: Their clients save an average of $145 per month on their auto payments – that’s real money back in your pocket.
    3. Extensive Lender Network: Caribou partners with numerous lenders, giving them access to loan terms that aren’t typically available directly to the public.
    4. Simple Three-Step Process: Their streamlined application takes just minutes and won’t impact your credit score during the initial phase.
    5. Skip Payment Option: Many Caribou refinance options include the ability to skip payments for up to 90 days, giving your budget immediate relief.
    6. Personal Loan Consultants: Their dedicated team works one-on-one with borrowers to find the best solution for their specific situation.
    7. Proven Track Record: Real-life success stories show dramatic savings, like Famatta who reduced her monthly payment by $371 by refinancing through Caribou.

    SEE IF YOU QUALIFY FOR A CAR LOAN

    Tips to Improve Your Chances of Refinancing Approval with Bad Credit

    Even with lenders like Caribou that specialize in bad credit car loan refinancing, taking these steps can significantly improve your chances of approval:

    1. Maintain Steady Employment and Income

    Lenders want to see stability in your income source. If possible, wait until you’ve been at your job for at least six months before applying for refinancing.

    2. Pay Off Other Debts or Reduce Balances

    Lowering your debt-to-income ratio makes you appear less risky to lenders. Try to pay down credit card balances and avoid taking on new debt before applying.

    3. Avoid New Credit Inquiries

    Multiple credit applications in a short time can further lower your score and make lenders nervous. Focus only on your refinancing goal and put other credit applications on hold.

    4. Gather Necessary Documents Upfront

    Being prepared speeds up the process and shows lenders you’re serious. Collect:

    • Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns)
    • Proof of residence
    • Current auto insurance documentation
    • Information about your current loan and vehicle

    5. Consider a Co-signer

    If available, a co-signer with better credit can significantly improve your chances of approval and help you secure better terms.

    APPLY NOW FOR EASY CAR LOAN REFINANCE

    What to Watch Out For When Refinancing With Bad Credit

    When dealing with bad credit auto refinancing, stay alert for these potential issues:

    1. High Fees or Hidden Charges

    Some lenders targeting bad credit borrowers add excessive origination fees, prepayment penalties, or processing charges. Always ask for a full disclosure of all fees.

    2. Predatory Lending Practices

    Be wary of lenders who:

    • Pressure you to decide quickly
    • Guarantee approval without checking your information
    • Focus only on the monthly payment, not the total loan cost
    • Add unnecessary products or services

    3. Unfavorable Loan Terms

    Watch out for extremely long loan terms that might lower your payment but cost thousands more in interest. Also be cautious of loans with balloon payments (large payments due at the end of the loan).

    4. Importance of Reading the Fine Print

    Take time to thoroughly understand all terms before signing. If something seems confusing, ask questions or have someone you trust review the paperwork.

    START YOUR FAST AND SIMPLE LOAN APPLICATION

    Step-by-Step Process of Refinancing Your Car Loan with Bad Credit

    Ready to pursue refinancing your car loan? Here’s what to expect with Caribou:

    1. Quick Online Application

    Start by filling out Caribou’s simple online form with basic information about your vehicle and current loan. This takes just a minute or two and won’t impact your credit score.

    2. Review Your Options

    After submitting your information, you’ll receive personalized refinancing options based on your specific situation. An Caribou Loan Consultant will walk you through these options.

    3. Choose Your Best Option

    With help from your Loan Consultant, select the refinancing option that best meets your needs – whether that’s the lowest monthly payment, shortest term, or best overall savings.

    4. Document Submission

    Provide any requested documentation promptly. This typically includes:

    • Proof of identity and residence
    • Income verification
    • Current loan information
    • Vehicle details (VIN, mileage, condition)

    5. Loan Approval and Closing

    After approval, you’ll receive final loan documents to review and sign. Read everything carefully before signing.

    6. Enjoy Your Savings

    Once everything is finalized, your new lender will pay off your original loan. You’ll start making payments on your new, more affordable loan – and potentially enjoy up to 90 days before your first payment is due.

    Conclusion

    Having bad credit doesn’t mean you’re stuck with your current high-interest auto loan. With specialized lenders like Caribou, refinancing car loans for bad credit is not only possible but could significantly improve your monthly cash flow and overall financial health.

    Remember that the best refinancing option isn’t always the one with the lowest monthly payment. Consider the total cost of the loan, including interest paid over the full term. Sometimes a slightly higher payment with a shorter term saves thousands in the long run.

    With Caribou’s average monthly savings of $145, you could put that money toward other debts, build an emergency fund, or save for your future. Their extensive lender network and experience with credit-challenged borrowers makes them an excellent choice for those looking to refinance despite credit issues.

    Ready to explore your options? Start your journey to lower car payments today by checking your rate with Caribou – it only takes a minute and won’t impact your credit score.

    SECURE A BETTER CAR LOAN RATE TODAY

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    Can you refinance a car loan with a different bank?

    Yes! In fact, refinancing with a different lender is the most common approach. Working with a company like Caribou gives you access to multiple lenders, increasing your chances of approval despite bad credit.

    What is the best car refinance company for bad credit?

    Caribou stands out as one of the best car loan refinance for bad credit options due to their minimum credit score requirement of just 560, extensive lender network, and proven track record of helping credit-challenged borrowers save money.

    How soon can you refinance a car loan after purchase?

    Most lenders prefer that you’ve had your current loan for at least 6-12 months before refinancing. However, companies like Caribou may be able to help sooner if your credit has improved or if you initially financed through a dealership at a high rate.

    How long do you have to wait to refinance a car loan?

    There’s no mandatory waiting period, but waiting 6-12 months gives you time to establish payment history on your current loan and potentially improve your credit score, leading to better refinancing terms.

    Where can I refinance my car loan?

    While you can refinance through banks, credit unions, and online lenders, working with a refinancing platform like Caribou gives you access to multiple lending options with a single application. This is especially valuable for those with bad credit.

    What disqualifies you from refinancing a car?

    Common reasons include very low credit scores (below 500), owing more on your car than it’s worth, an old vehicle with high mileage, low income or high debt, and loans in default. Caribou helps many with credit scores as low as 560 who might be rejected by other lenders.

    Can you refinance a car loan?

    Absolutely! Refinancing a car loan is a common financial strategy that can lower your interest rate, reduce monthly payments, or change your loan term. Even with bad credit, companies like Caribou specialize in helping borrowers refinance to more favorable terms, with many clients saving $145 per month on average.

    mail:contact@gocaribou.com

    Disclaimer

    This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Individual results may vary based on your credit score, income, and other factors. We recommend consulting with financial professionals and comparing multiple lenders before making any refinancing decisions. Interest rates and loan terms are subject to change, and approval is not guaranteed.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese vice premier stresses workplace safety

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, May 29 — Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing on Thursday stressed the need to identify potential safety hazards in workplace, reinforce accountability for workplace safety, and take concrete measures to ensure both development and security.

    It is necessary to learn from recent accidents and always stay vigilant about workplace safety, said Zhang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, when addressing a ceremony marking the launch of a monthlong campaign to improve workplace safety.

    He stressed the importance of focusing on key industries, including firefighting, hazardous chemicals, gas, mining, transportation and construction, to prevent major and serious accidents.

    It is essential to thoroughly inspect and address potential safety hazards, and improve public risk prevention awareness and self-rescue skills, Zhang said

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Introducing the new IAA newsletter

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Introducing the new IAA newsletter

    Our newsletter will be published quarterly, and all stakeholders are welcome to sign up to receive the latest edition straight to their inbox.

    We’re excited to launch the first edition of the Immigration Advice Authority’s new quarterly newsletter.

    Designed to keep our partners and stakeholders informed, the newsletter offers updates on key developments across the IAA, including regulatory news, recent enforcement actions, guidance updates, upcoming events, and spotlights on best practice in immigration advice.

    In the May 2025 edition, you’ll find:

    • A welcome message from the IAA’s Commissioner
    • An update on the Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill
    • News of our newly appointed Non-Executive Directors
    • The latest guidance and publications
    • An introduction from our new Chief Executive

    Download the May newsletter and stay informed about the work we’re doing to protect advice seekers and promote best practice across the sector.

    To receive future editions straight to your inbox, sign up to our mailing list.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Outcomes of the UK/EU Summit on 19 May: UK statement to OSCE

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Speech

    Outcomes of the UK/EU Summit on 19 May: UK statement to OSCE

    Ambassador Holland briefs on the outcomes of the UK/EU Summit, which took place on 19 May in London, including the leaders’ commitment to the Helsinki Decalogue and resolute condemnation of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine.

    Thank you, Chair. On 19 May the UK Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer welcomed Presidents Von Der Leyen and Costa and High Representative Kallas to Lancaster House, for the first ever Summit between the UK and the EU.  It was an important forward-looking discussion at which our leaders confirmed our steadfast dedication to the fundamental tenets of democracy, respect for human rights and the rule of law. They restated our commitment to the Helsinki Decalogue and to the rules based international order, with the United Nations at its core.  

    Our leaders stressed our resolute condemnation of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine and underlined our commitment to hold Russia accountable for its aggression.  Our leaders also offered continued support to Moldova and reaffirmed our commitment to the stability and prosperity of the Western Balkans.  

    Europe faces a generational threat to our shared security and against this backdrop the discussion included global and strategic priorities of joint concern and agreement to strengthen cooperation across a range of issues for the security, safety and prosperity of all people across the UK and EU.   

    During the Summit the UK and the EU reached agreement on a Security and Defence Partnership.  The Partnership is broad and ambitious and will upgrade our cooperation on areas ranging from defence industry, mobility of military material and personnel, maritime security and space security, to illicit finance, irregular migration and working together to protect our critical infrastructure. These are issues relevant to the work that we do each day here in Vienna and our partnership will contribute to our shared security. 

    Madam Chair, this Summit underpinned the importance of UK and EU cooperation and our new geopolitical partnership that drives closer coordination, builds on our OSCE principles and commitments and will underpin our comprehensive approach to security.   

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Annual safety checks on the Mancunian Way scheduled to take place

    Source: City of Manchester

    The Mancunian way is set to close overnight during the weekend of June 7-8 for its annual inspection.

    Carried out every year these closures will be in place to ensure that vital safety inspections can be carried out, allowing one of Manchester’s busiest roads to continue operating.

    From 5am on Saturday, June 7, the Mancunian Way will be closed in both directions along its entire length, including all slip roads, between the Chester Road roundabout and Fairfield Street.

    The closure will last until 7pm on Sunday, June 8, after which the road will be open to traffic once more.

    A signed diversion route will be in place via the north and eastern ring road sections – Trinity Way and Great Ancoats Street – and a local diversion route will be signed via Bridgewater Street, Whitworth Street West, Whitworth Street and Fairfield Street.

    During this period there will also be a lane closure east/westbound at the Deansgate Interchange between 6.30am – 9.30am; and the inbound lane of Princess Road (heading towards Manchester) between 6.30am and 11.15am.

    Councillor Tracey Rawlins, Executive Member for Clean Air, Environment and Transport, said: “The annual inspection of the Mancunian Way is a vital job which ensures that the tens of thousands of daily users of this road can go about their journey in safety.

    “We do expect a level of disruption throughout this process so wherever possible we’d advise people to travel via public transport, or plan an alternate route ahead to avoid the work locations.

    “Safety will always be our number one priority and I’d like to say thank you in advance for the patience of road users during this period of works.”

    Find out more information on these works by visiting the Council’s website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI USA: New tools to identify and monitor cardiovascular disease

    Source: US Government research organizations

    Researchers develop algorithm that enables more advanced imaging of cardiac tissue and vessels

    Cardiovascular diseases cause one death every 33 seconds in America. Diagnosing these conditions, which account for approximately 20% of all deaths annually, can be difficult because the overlaying and natural fluorescence of cardiac tissue complicate diagnostic images. A new algorithm, developed by researchers supported by the U.S. National Science Foundation and described in Nature Cardiovascular Research, could lead to clearer images, earlier diagnoses and better outcomes.

    “Enhancing visualization of cardiac systems is just one application of this new tool,” said Eric Lyons, a program director in the NSF Directorate for Biological Sciences. “This could also help advance live-cell imaging in other parts of the body, like the brain, and drive insights into fundamental biological processes and systems.”

    Current forms of imaging each have drawbacks, being limited by how broad or deep they can visualize, the ability to visualize small scales like molecules or the frame rate of cameras and speed of data acquisition and processing. The algorithm addresses many of these challenges and allows for simultaneous viewing of multiple parameters and measurement of the volume of heart chambers.

    The tool uses an approach known as multiscale recursive decomposition, where images are broken down into smaller parts across multiple scales. This allows for the precise extraction of dynamic cardiovascular signals, which could allow physicians and others to diagnose cardiovascular disease earlier and more precisely. Better diagnoses are likely to lead to better health outcomes.

    The algorithm is fully compatible with commonly used microscopes, allowing for wide use of the tool.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: New Judiciary Learning Center Opens in Boston

    Source: United States Courts

    “Through this center, we hope to put the truth of active liberty in action — by helping people of all ages and all backgrounds, whether steeped in legal knowledge or too young to have much of it — reflect on and learn about the Constitution and the Courts and how they relate to each other in our democracy,” said Chief Judge David J. Barron, of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit, who led the effort to establish the new center.

    The Breyer Learning Center is one of a growing number of civics education centers, museums, and exhibits in federal court buildings across the country. At the new learning center, students and adults can learn about the important role of the Judiciary in daily life. Educational materials include information and activities about the Constitution, landmark Supreme Court cases, federal court basics, jury service, and careers in the federal court system.

    The 2,800-square-foot center, named in honor of retired U.S. Supreme Court Justice Stephen G. Breyer, is in the John Joseph Moakley U.S. Courthouse in Boston. The learning center includes space for hosting workshops, training sessions, and seminars, in addition to the student-centered programs offered by Discovering Justice, a local nonprofit organization that brings students and communities together to examine the workings of the justice system. 

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement from Governor Hochul on Tariff Court Ruling

    Source: US State of New York

    Official websites use ny.gov

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    Secure ny.gov websites use HTTPS

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    May 28, 2025

    Albany, NY

    “Today’s decision is a resounding victory for New Yorkers, American consumers and the rule of law. These reckless and unauthorized tariffs have burdened businesses with skyrocketing costs that have been passed along to consumers and wreaked havoc on our 401Ks — all without the legal authority to do so.

    “This ruling affirms what I have said from the beginning: the Executive Branch does not have the power to unilaterally impose these sweeping economic measures that harm the very people we are sworn to serve. We stood up to protect the economic interests of our state, and today, justice prevailed.

    “I thank the court for upholding the constitution and restoring a critical check on executive overreach. New York will always lead the fight to defend working families, uphold the law, and ensure government remains accountable to the people.”

    You are leaving the official State of New York website.

    The State of New York does not imply approval of the listed destinations, warrant the accuracy of any information set out in those destinations, or endorse any opinions expressed therein. External web sites operate at the direction of their respective owners who should be contacted directly with questions regarding the content of these sites.

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    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: Establishment of the Risk, Nomination and Remuneration Committees of Bigbank

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    The Supervisory Board of Bigbank AS decided to establish three new committees: the Risk Committee, the Remuneration Committee and the Nomination committee.

    • The Risk Committee comprises three members of the Supervisory Board: Sven Raba, Vahur Voll and Jaan Liitmäe.
    • The Remuneration Committee consists of three members of the Supervisory Board: Alari Aho, Juhani Jaeger and Jaan Liitmäe.
    • The Nomination Committee is composed of three members of the Supervisory Board: Alari Aho, Juhani Jaeger and Sven Raba.

    Committee meetings are convened as necessary. The chairman of each committee is elected form among its members. Committee members are remunerated in accordance with the shareholders’ resolution dated 29.05.2025.

    In addition to the established committees, the Bank’s Audit Committee will continue its work.

    Bigbank AS (www.bigbank.eu), with over 30 years of operating history, is a commercial bank owned by Estonian capital. As of 30 April 2025, the bank’s total assets amounted to 2.9 billion euros, with equity of 274 million euros. Operating in nine countries, the bank serves more than 170,000 active customers and employs over 550 people. The credit rating agency Moody’s has assigned Bigbank a long-term bank deposit rating of Ba1, along with a baseline credit assessment (BCA) and an adjusted BCA of Ba2.

    Martin Länts
    Chairman of the Management Board
    E-mail: martin.lants@bigbank.ee
    www.bigbank.eu

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: May 29, 2025 Lawmakers Introduce Bill to Help Communities Build Affordable Homes on Empty Lots Near Public Transit   Washington, D.C. – Amidst a severe housing crisis, a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers led by Rep. Kevin Mullin (CA-15) introduced the Empty Lots to Housing Act to help spur construction of transit-oriented housing development that includes affordable units.  May is National… Read More

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Kevin Mullin California (15th District)

    Washington, D.C. – Amidst a severe housing crisis, a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers led by Rep. Kevin Mullin (CA-15) introduced the Empty Lots to Housing Act to help spur construction of transit-oriented housing development that includes affordable units. 

    May is National Affordable Housing Month and families across America are facing challenges as the market is short 4.9 million homes, and one in four renters spends more than half of their income on rent. One way to help tackle America’s housing crisis is to repurpose underused land to build new homes – especially in areas near high-quality transit. Throughout the United States, there are an estimated 276,000 acres of government-owned land in transit-rich urban areas that could be repurposed for much-needed housing. Local governments often seek to leverage publicly owned land to create affordable housing, yet may face regulatory barriers on parcels that were previously purchased with federal funds. 

    The Empty Lots to Housing Act would help cut bureaucratic red tape that has prevented local communities from developing housing on land previously acquired with funds from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) that is no longer needed for its original purpose. In 2021, the Federal Transit Administration was granted this authority, and now lawmakers are seeking to provide the FHWA with parallel authority.  

    “Families across America are experiencing the detrimental effects of America’s housing shortage. We know this crisis all too well here in the Bay Area, where we have huge discrepancies in wealth, and the amount of land available for redevelopment is extremely limited,” said Rep. Kevin Mullin (CA-15). “It is reassuring to see bipartisan support for my Empty Lots to Housing Act. This bill would remove unnecessary hurdles and empower local governments that are striving to create much-needed housing in walkable communities with great access to public transit.” 

    The bill was inspired by a real-world case in the San Francisco Bay Area, where the San Mateo County Transit Authority (SamTrans) is seeking to redevelop an underused parking lot into transit-oriented housing. But the agency has faced regulatory barriers due to the site having been originally purchased with grant funding from FHWA, which is currently unable to easily allow grantees to repurpose property for housing development.  

    “Congressman Mullin has been a steadfast advocate for cutting through red tape to make housing development more accessible on publicly-owned land near transit,” said SamTrans General Manager/CEO April Chan. “We’re grateful for his strong leadership and commitment to real solutions.” 

    Specifically, this bill would: 

    • Enable state and local governments to transfer underutilized properties that were purchased with FHWA funds to nonprofits or other qualified organizations to build housing near public transit 
    • Require at least 40 percent of the housing units to be set aside for those earning up to 60 percent of the area median income, of which at least 20 percent would be reserved for very-low income families earning up to 30 percent of the area median income 

    “Part of solving our nation’s housing crisis means using the land we already have, especially near public transit hubs, to build homes people actually need,” said Rep. Robert Garcia (D-CA-42). “The bipartisan Empty Lots to Housing Act cuts through outdated red tape that’s held up progress for too long and helps create neighborhoods where families can afford to live and get around easily. As co-chair of the YIMBY Caucus, I’m proud to support this straightforward, commonsense fix we desperately need.” 

    “One of the biggest obstacles to housing growth is space, which is why finding ways to repurpose unused land is a great way to address housing shortages,” said Rep. Chuck Edwards (R-NC-11). “Federal law is currently getting in the way of efficient housing growth by forcing prime real estate, near highways and public transportation, to sit vacant simply because of the money that was used to purchase the land. The Empty Lots to Housing Act will fix that problem by allowing state and local governments to transfer vacant properties purchased by FHWA money to qualified entities to build housing in these desirable, transit-accessible areas. It’s a win, win for economic and population growth.” 

    The bill has been endorsed by YIMBY Action, Up For Growth, American Planning Association, National Association of Realtors, and Grounded Solutions Network, Parking Reform Network, and Asian Real Estate Association of America. 

    “Addressing the nation’s housing supply and affordability crisis demands smart policy solutions that build effective partnerships with local communities,” said Sue Schwartz, FAICP, President, American Planning Association. “The Empty Lots to Housing Act ensures that federal transit investments are fully leveraged to meet local needs. The American Planning Association supports this measure to give local agencies the authority they need to meet the moment, advance housing plans, and turn well-located, underused public assets into housing solutions.” 

    The full text of the bill can be found here. 

    The Empty Lots to Housing Act is cosponsored by Representatives Chuck Edwards (NC-11), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Scott Peters (CA-50), and Shri Thanedar (MI-13).  

    ###  

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Minuteman III test launch showcases readiness of US nuclear force’s safe, effective deterrent

    Source: United States Navy

    Vandenberg Space Force Base, Calif. — A joint team of Air Force Global Strike Command Airmen launched an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile equipped with a single Mark-21 High Fidelity Re-Entry Vehicle May 21 at 12:01 a.m. Pacific Time from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Insolvency Service publishes new Individual Voluntary Arrangement protocol to help protect people in debt

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Insolvency Service publishes new Individual Voluntary Arrangement protocol to help protect people in debt

    New protocol is the result of the agency working with organisations across the sector to improve support for people considering an IVA.

    • The changes to the IVA protocol bring further clarity and certainty for both consumers and creditors. 

    • Research published in October 2024, showed concerning evidence of poor practice by some providers.  

    • The revised protocol comes into effect from 1 June 2025 and is the product of the agency working alongside regulators, creditors, IVA providers and charities.  

    The Insolvency Service has published a revised Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA) protocol to improve the service currently offered to people in debt and safeguard them from poor practice.  

    IVAs are a legally binding agreement between a person who is insolvent and their creditors.   

    The new protocol includes an easy-to-read ‘key facts’ document which will be given to people in debt before they sign up to an IVA. The protocol also gives greater clarity to Insolvency Practitioners about their responsibilities when giving advice about IVAs. 

    It is the result of a collaboration between the Insolvency Service, regulators, the trade association R3, creditors, providers and charities following 2024 research which found poor practice among some IVA providers. 

    Claire Hardgrave, the Head of Insolvency Practitioner Regulation for the Insolvency Service said:  

    It is vital that people with debt problems are always given quality advice.  

    At the same time, Insolvency Practitioners need access to clear guidance in order to provide the best service possible.  

    Since the publication of our report, we have been working with regulators and have met with Insolvency Practitioners to discuss our plans. 

    This protocol provides much-needed safeguards and transparency for all concerned, ensuring there are fewer grey areas for the practice, and that people in debt are supported from the very start.

    Marcial Boo, Chief Executive of the Insolvency Practitioners Association, added:  

    It is vital that Insolvency Practitioners meet high standards when supporting people in financial distress.  

    The revised IVA Protocol marks a significant improvement in the framework for the fair, efficient administration of consumer IVAs, including changes that the IPA, as the largest regulator for the sector across the UK, has long been advocating for.  

    We will continue to work with the Insolvency Service and others to ensure that the new protocol is applied in practice to bring benefit to debtors and creditors alike.

    In 2024, the Insolvency Service published research into the provision of IVAs, looking at 310 which had been both registered and terminated between 2021 and 2023, finding that 60 per cent showed evidence of poor practice in the early stages. 

    The new ‘key facts’ document, will be given to consumers before they agree an IVA proposal and provides greater clarity on what to expect. It covers key areas, including implications for homeowners, fees charged by IVA providers, how monthly repayments are calculated and individual credit scores.  

    Some of the main changes to the protocol include:  

    • Clearer guidance for when an IVA is not suitable, for example, if a consumer qualifies for a Debt Relief Order. 

    • The consumer’s family home will no longer form part of their IVA if the providers and creditors follow the protocol. 

    • Where an IVA is terminated, a requirement that the supervisor should signpost the consumer to free, regulated debt advice. 

    The revised protocol is the product of the IVA standing committee (IVASC) of which the Insolvency Service is a member alongside the Recognised Professional Bodies (RPBs). 

    It involved all parties working together to agree a product which was easier to understand and provides greater clarity and certainty for consumers, creditors and Insolvency Practitioners. 

    Across England and Wales, a total of 64,050 IVAs were registered in 2024.   

    IVAs are administered by licensed Insolvency Practitioners, usually last for between five and six years, to pay off debts affordably monthly contributions 

    Anyone in problem debt should seek free, regulated debt advice and ask about the breathing space service while they explore possible solutions to suit their circumstances.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Over 90% of SIA licence applicants satisfied with the process

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Over 90% of SIA licence applicants satisfied with the process

    91% of surveyed Security Industry Authority (SIA) licence applicants were satisfied with the application process.

    The SIA’s annual independent satisfaction survey saw satisfaction levels among individuals rise once again, increasing in 2024 by 6% from the already high level of 86% in 2023. Satisfaction among employers was also at an impressive 89%, having increased from 85% in 2023. These improvements demonstrate the positive progress made by the SIA since it revised its customer contact strategy in 2022. 

    The main drivers behind the high levels of satisfaction among individuals include the application process being simple and straightforward to manage, that licensing decisions are consistent, fair, and made within the expected time, and that applicants are given clear instructions on what they need to do next to progress their application. 

    The positive feedback is the result of continuous improvement across the SIA’s licensing processes and management of customer contact, including initiatives launched as part of the revised contact strategy to enhance the customer experience. These initiatives include the launch of a series of guidance videos to walk customers through the application process and address the main reasons for contact, which have since been streamed thousands of times.  

    Employers noted the low effort required on their part, and the clear information the SIA provides to support the application process, as the key factors contributing to their high level of satisfaction. This reflects the continued success of the SIA’s Business Support team which was redesigned in 2022 as part of the revised contact strategy. The redesign has allowed the team to build strong engagement with businesses, providing proactive and reactive support in managing licensing-related queries.

    Favourable opinion of the SIA among individuals increased in line with satisfaction levels, rising to 91% from 88% in 2023.

    Iestyn David, SIA Head of Licensing and Service Delivery, said: 

    It’s incredibly encouraging to see customer satisfaction increase once again, among both individuals and employers, from the already high levels of satisfaction in last year’s survey. 

    This demonstrates the success of our contact strategy initiatives and our ongoing work to improve the customer experience and the licensing journey.  I am proud of all the hard work the team has put in over the last year, particularly in the context of the record application volumes we’ve been managing, and it’s great to see this recognised in such positive feedback from our customers.

    The survey was conducted in January 2025 to measure the SIA’s performance in 2024. It involved 703 interviews with individuals who had recently applied for an SIA licence and 95 interviews with employers who had recently submitted applications on behalf of their employees. 

    Read a summary of the survey findings. 

    Background 

    The Security Industry Authority is the organisation responsible for regulating the private security industry in the United Kingdom, reporting to the Home Secretary under the terms of the Private Security Industry Act 2001.

    The SIA’s main duties are: the compulsory licensing of individuals undertaking designated activities; and managing the voluntary Approved Contractor Scheme.

    Media enquiries

    For media enquiries only, please contact:

    SIA press office

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s video message to the UN-Habitat Assembly

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    Download the video:
    https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/downloads2.unmultimedia.org/public/video/evergreen/MSG+SG+/SG+21+May+25/3399105_MSG+SG+UN+HABITAT+ASSEMBLY+21+MAY+25.mp4

    https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/downloads2.unmultimedia.org/public/video/evergreen/MSG+SG+/SG+21+May+25/MSG+SG+UN+HABITAT+ASSEMBLY+21+MAY+25+EN.mp4

    Excellencies,

    Dear friends,

    I am pleased to send my greetings to this Second United Nations Habitat Assembly as you resume your session in Nairobi.

    You gather as our world and cities face challenges on all fronts – accelerated by conflicts, the climate crisis, rising inequalities and growing geo-political divides.

    This Assembly is about coming together to help find solutions, adhering to shared values, and strengthening our work as the UN marks its 80th anniversary.  

    You recognize a core truth: 

    We can’t build a livable world if people don’t have a place to live. 

    Yet 2.8 billion people around the world lack adequate shelter – stuck in informal settlements, slums or no home at all.  

    The Pact for the Future underscores the urgency – calling for universal access to adequate, safe, and affordable housing.

    The Strategic Plan that you are taking up in Nairobi reaffirms that housing is a human right.  It is a public good.  And it is crucial to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

    Your Strategic Plan offers a pathway to helping advance dignity, safety, opportunity.

    I wish you every success. 

    Together, let’s keep working to ensure that everyone, everywhere, has a place to call home.

    Thank you.
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Death of an inmate from Bath Institution’s Regional Treatment Centre

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    May 29, 2025 – Bath, Ontario – Correctional Service Canada

    On May 27, 2025, Robert Edgar, an inmate from Bath Institution’s Regional Treatment Centre, died while in our custody of apparent natural causes.

    At the time of death, the inmate was 89 years old and had been serving a life sentence, which began on May 14, 2015.

    The inmate’s next of kin have been notified.

    As in all cases involving the death of an inmate, the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) will review the circumstances. CSC policy requires that the police and the coroner be notified.

    MIL OSI Canada News