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Category: CTF

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – EU strategy on price transparency and access to medicines – E-001918/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001918/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Valentina Palmisano (The Left)

    Major pharmaceutical companies have recently announced investments of over USD 165 billion in the United States, thus shifting part of their production apparatus.

    The CEOs of Novartis and Sanofi have criticised EU policy, which they deem to be unattractive, citing regulatory uncertainty and price controls.

    The Commission has submitted proposals such as a European price list based on US prices, the elimination of spending caps and a European target for innovative medicines.

    Given the foregoing and the fact that equitable access to medicines and the sustainability of healthcare systems are fundamental rights, that World Health Organisation resolution WHA72.8 calls for price transparency but no such policy enforces it in Europe, and that the evaluation of medicines does not systematically include added therapeutic value, can the Commission say:

    • 1.What stance it takes on Big Pharma’s proposals and the associated risks for the sustainability of healthcare systems and equitable access to medicines?
    • 2.What measures it intends to take to increase price transparency in line with Resolution WHA72.8 and improve information exchange between Member States?
    • 3.Whether it intends to introduce the criterion of added therapeutic value in the assessment of medicines at European level, with a view to steering innovation towards real clinical benefits and avoiding incremental innovation?

    Submitted: 14.5.2025

    Last updated: 21 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Generational renewal in EU agriculture – 21-05-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Attracting young people to agriculture has been a goal of the European Union’s (EU) common agricultural policy (CAP) since the 1980s. However, EU farmers are getting older – 57 % of farm managers are over 55 years of age, while only 12 % are under 40. Young farmers ensure continuity of agricultural production and bring vitality to rural areas. They are also more likely to modernise farms, engage in environmentally friendly practices and employ new business models and ideas. Young people who decide to go into farming often experience difficulties in accessing land, finance and knowledge. They also have to navigate the general challenges that come with living in rural areas. To address these issues, the CAP mandates that EU Member States allocate an equivalent of 3 % of their direct payments to support young farmers. This support can come in the form of complementary income support, installation aid and support for investment. Furthermore, Member States use the LEADER programme to improve infrastructure and basic services in rural areas. Some also provide support for farms that are being passed down from one generation to the next. However, several studies reveal that, despite several decades of efforts, these measures have shown limited results. The support being provided is considered insufficient to address the issue of access to land, especially for people entering agriculture without inheriting a farm. Nonetheless, this support is crucial for convincing young people to take over a farm and is often used for investment, as collateral when obtaining a loan, or for expanding an existing farm. Over the next three years, in addition to what is being provided under the CAP, the European Investment Bank Group is planning to provide €3 billion in loans on favourable terms for agriculture, with a share reserved for young farmers. In the current term, the European Parliament has not adopted a formal position on young farmers and generational renewal. However, its committees are working on own-initiative reports on the future of agriculture and strengthening rural areas. Parliament has previously called for a dedicated EU strategy on generational renewal, which the European Commission plans to put forward in 2025.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Trafficking in children – 21-05-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Trafficking in human beings is a serious crime and a violation of human rights. When it happens to children, it disrupts their childhood and exposes them to horrific exploitation and abuse, and a precarious future. Even though the true number of victims of human trafficking is not known, recent data reveal that the number of child victims has been on the increase. Awareness of children as victims of human trafficking has increased as well. Just like adult victims, child victims can be trafficked for sexual exploitation, forced labour, forced criminality or organ removal. Recently, the EU has officially recognised new forms of exploitation, including surrogacy, forced marriage and illegal adoption. There are geographical differences in the recruitment of victims, with the vast majority of child victims originating from northern, southern and western Europe being girls (82.9 %) and 55.1 % of child victims from Africa and 77.6 % of child victims from southern Asia being boys. Female child victims are more likely to report sexual exploitation, while male child victims are more likely to be exploited through child labour. Forced criminality in the EU, although comparatively lower as a share of the total number of victims, is steadily increasing, with boys of migration background being the main targets. The EU’s anti-trafficking legislation was amended last year, resulting in legislation that identifies children as especially vulnerable to trafficking. The amendments also expanded the list of forms of exploitation to include those that particularly affect children and emphasised the importance of a victim-centred approach and prevention. Member States are therefore asked, inter alia, to promote and provide regular and specialised training for professionals who are likely to come into contact with such children. Another relevant directive, on victims’ rights, is currently being revised to provide even more rights to victims, including child victims. The existing directive already prioritises the best interests of children when applying its provisions.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Principles of solidarity and proportionality in the distribution of unaccompanied migrant children in Spain – E-001241/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The manner in which a Member State organises its internal territorial administration and redistribution of applicants for international protection within its national asylum reception system is a matter that falls under national competences of a Member State and the Commission is not in a position to comment on it.

    Last updated: 21 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Persecution of the opposition by Xiomara Castro’s communist government in Honduras – E-001287/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU has supported the justice sector, transparency mechanisms, the fight against corruption, electoral reforms, strengthening the national human rights protection system (e.g. ProDerechos[1]) and deployed consecutive election observation missions (EOMs). EU humanitarian assistance, focusing on people displaced, disaster preparedness and food insecurity, is channelled through international non-governmental organisations and United Nations agencies implementing projects.

    The EU remains ready to support a positive national reform agenda prioritising inclusive and sustainable development. Strengthening governance, rule of law, fighting corruption and protecting human rights are paramount.

    The Multi-annual Indicative Programme 2021-2027[2] (EUR 163 million) focuses on three priorities (sustainable management of natural resources and climate change; employment, decent work and sustainable growth; rule of law, democratic governance) and allows to maintain applicable oversight mechanisms to ensure funds are directed towards above-mentioned objectives.

    Following the primary elections in March 2025, the EU clearly expressed support for the National Electoral Council, a key institution for the organisation of the general elections on 30 November 2025, and called on all state institutions to support its work as stipulated by the Honduran Constitution[3].

    In response to the invitation by Honduras to observe the upcoming elections, the EU will deploy an election exploratory mission six to four months before the elections. This mission will evaluate whether deployment of an EU EOM is advisable, useful and feasible. On that basis, the High Representative/Vice-President will decide on the deployment of an EOM.

    • [1] Programme ProDerechos Honduras, https://www.proderechos.hn/.
    • [2] Multi-annual Indiciative Programme Programme for Honduras 2021-2027, https://international-partnerships.ec.europa.eu/countries/honduras_en.
    • [3] Declaración Local de la Unión Europea en Honduras, 24 March 2025, https://x.com/EUambHN/status/1904281667289641435/photo/1.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Repatriation of Syrians – E-000218/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission does not keep such registries.

    As of 6 March 2025, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) estimates that over 300 000 Syrians have returned to Syria via neighbouring countries since early December 2024, and that almost 890 000 internally displaced persons have returned to their home region since November 2024.

    While remaining cautious due to the volatile situation in Syria, and in line with the European Council conclusions of 19 December 2024[1], the EU is committed to help creating the conditions for safe, voluntary and dignified return of refugees, as defined by the UNHCR, in particular by supporting Syrians who decide to go home and by stepping up its non-humanitarian early recovery support in sectors crucial for sustainable returns.

    Under the EU asylum rules, the Syrian nationals who benefit from international protection in a Member State have the right to reside in the Member State that granted them protection. EU law outlines the circumstances in which an individual protection status can be withdrawn and a number of related safeguards.

    The Return Directive[2] sets out common standards and procedures to be applied by the competent authorities of the Member States for returning illegally staying third-country nationals, in compliance with fundamental rights as well as international law, including refugee protection and human rights obligations. Non-governmental organisations do not have a formal role in the carrying out those procedures.

    • [1] European Council (EUCO) 50/24: https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/jhlenhaj/euco-conclusions-19122024-en.pdf.
    • [2] Directive 2008/115/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 December 2008 on common standards and procedures in Member States for returning illegally staying third-country nationals.
    Last updated: 21 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – Opening: 21-22 May 2025 plenary session

    Source: European Parliament

    MEPs added a debate on “the Hungarian government’s drift towards Russia-style repression” to today’s agenda.

    Changes to the agenda

    Wednesday

    Council and Commission statements on the Hungarian government’s drift towards Russia-style repression and legislative threats to freedom of expression and democratic participation are added to the agenda later on Wednesday, following the debate on the EU’s response to the Israeli government’s plan to seize the Gaza Strip. As a result of this addition, the sitting is extended to 23:00.

    Thursday

    The President announced a request from the Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development to fast-track a file under Rule 170(6) of the EP’s Rules of Procedure for the Commission proposal on additional assistance and further flexibility to outermost regions affected by severe natural disasters and in the context of cyclone Chido devastating Mayotte.

    The vote on this request will take place on Thursday. If approved, the file will be added to the June plenary agenda.

    Interinstitutional negotiations

    The Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs has decided to enter into interinstitutional negotiations, in accordance with Rule 72(1) of Parliament’s Rules of Procedure, on the basis of the report available on the plenary website.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Review of the EU Cybersecurity Act – timeline and strategic priorities – E-001364/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission is in the process of reviewing the Cybersecurity Act ( Regulation (EU) 2019/881[1]). To support this review and gather views of interested stakeholders, on 11 April 2025, the Commission opened a call for evidence and a public consultation, available on the Have Your Say portal[2],, both open until 20 June 2025. The Commission aims to publish an evaluation of the Cybersecurity Act, as well as an impact assessment and a proposal for a revised Cybersecurity Act, in 2025, as announced in the ProtectEU Strategy[3].

    In the review process, the Commission is taking into account the current cybersecurity threats landscape. The Commission is assessing the need to amend the mandate of the European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA) and its role in the cybersecurity ecosystem, to ensure it is fit for purpose. The Commission is also assessing the European cybersecurity certification framework (ECCF) and considering the options that would contribute to a better integration of the EU cybersecurity market and improve efficiency of the ECCF, including addressing information and communications technology (ICT) supply chain security challenges . The Commission is also looking at simplification possibilities, in particular as regards reporting obligations.

    Setting out and implementing a robust cybersecurity framework is imperative to ensure economic stability, cyber resilience and security of critical infrastructures. The Commission refers the Honourable Member to the 2024 State of the Digital Decade package[4] and the Seventh Progress Report on the implementation of the EU Security Union Strategy[5], which outline the progress in implementing cybersecurity policies in the internal market.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2019/881/oj/eng .
    • [2] https://ec.europa.eu/info/law/better-regulation/have-your-say/initiatives/14578-The-EU-Cybersecurity-Act_en .
    • [3] COM(2025)0148.
    • [4] 2024 State of the Digital Decade package https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/policies/2024-state-digital-decade-package .
    • [5] COM(2024)0198.
    Last updated: 21 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Operation of Pre-Removal Detention Centres in Albania and the impact on the EU – E-000070/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    In general, it is possible for the EU and the Member States to cooperate with countries outside the EU in managing migration. This must be done in full respect of EU and international law.

    Based on the information available to the Commission, Italy’s initiative originally aimed at transferring certain categories of third-country nationals intercepted in the high seas to centres in Albania, under Italian jurisdiction, to examine their applications for international protection. In case of rejection of such applications, Italy would carry out return procedures from these centres.

    When Member States extend the application of national law implementing EU law to situations falling outside the scope of EU law, they must do it in a way that does not undermine or circumvent the application of harmonised rules or obligations under EU law.

    As per the latest available information, Italy is now using the centre for the purpose of detention of returnees, in the same way as it uses pre-removal centres in Italy, and therefore it is conducting procedures with the same requirements, time limits and guarantees as those performed in Italian territory.

    The Commission is following the implementation of the protocol and is in contact with the Italian authorities.

    Last updated: 21 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Announcement of a ‘round table’ on the elections in Poland organised by the Commission – E-001044/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The conduct and the organisation of elections are the competence and responsibility of the Member States, in accordance with their national constitutional and legislative rules, while respecting their international obligations and EU law.

    The Digital Services Act (DSA[1]) requires providers of very large online platforms (VLOPs) and very large online search engines (VLOSEs) to assess and mitigate systemic risks linked to electoral processes and civic discourse while protecting fundamental rights, including the freedom of expression[2]. The Commission issued guidelines for VLOPs and VLOSEs on the mitigation of systemic risks for electoral processes, which recommend different options for mitigation measures[3].

    The Digital Services Coordinators (DSCs) coordinate work at national level with the aim of ensuring compliance with the DSA, including during electoral periods. The European Board for Digital Services, composed of the DSCs, compiled a DSA Elections Toolkit[4] aiming to support DSCs in this task. DSCs can namely organise election roundtables to facilitate information sharing between relevant stakeholders such as online platforms and civil society organisations. If requested by the DSCs, the Commission may provide support in this exercise, as it did ahead a number of recent national elections. These roundtables are not public and it is for the DSCs to decide and communicate on what was discussed or who participated.

    The Commission has so far not received any request from the Polish DSC and is therefore currently not involved in a potential roundtable in Poland.

    • [1] Regulation (EU) 2022/2065 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 October 2022 on a Single Market For Digital Services and amending Directive 2000/31/EC (Digital Services Act),  OJ L 277, 27.10.2022, p. 1-102 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2022/2065/oj/eng.
    • [2] Articles 34 and 35 of Regulation (EU) 2022/2065.
    • [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A52024XC03014&qid=1714466886277.
    • [4] https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/library/dsa-elections-toolkit-digital-services-coordinators.
    Last updated: 21 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Social Climate Fund (SCF) and limited liability housing companies in Finland – E-001228/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The rules of the Social Climate Fund (SCF) and those concerning the use of the remaining Member State revenues under the new Emissions Trading System for buildings, road transport and additional sectors (ETS2) are different. SCF rules are more targeted and developed through the SCF Regulation[1], the recently adopted Guidances on the Social Climate Plans[2] and on the do no significant harm (DNSH) principle[3].

    Article 9 of the SCF Regulation allows support through intermediaries, if the entire benefit is passed on to the vulnerable and relevant safeguards are in place. Thus, the investments and measures carried out by the Finnish limited liability housing companies could be financed if they are included the Finnish Social Climate Plan and if a measure can be designed in such a way that the entire benefit is passed on to vulnerable households (homeowners, or renters), e.g. in the form of an improved building standard and reduced heating bills.

    Under the ETS Directive[4], Member States must use the revenues for the purposes listed in Articles 10(3) and 30d(6), which include measures to improve energy efficiency and deep renovations. The decarbonisation of heating and cooling of buildings, the reduction of the energy needs of buildings and social aspects are mentioned especially when it comes to ETS2.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=uriserv:OJ.L_.2023.130.01.0001.01.ENG .
    • [2] https://climate.ec.europa.eu/document/download/9fbce2e3-5052-4d61-874a-54af0c7dbf55_en?filename=c_2025_881_part_1_en.pdf .
    • [3] https://climate.ec.europa.eu/document/download/2f3269ea-fb02-4481-a1d5-3453ba3172ea_en?filename=c_2025_880_part_1_en.pdf .
    • [4] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A02003L0087-20240301 .
    Last updated: 21 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Public attack on the Ombudsman by the Greek government – E-000530/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    National human rights institutions, ombudspersons, equality bodies and other independent authorities have an important role in national checks and balances. The Commission monitors developments related to the functioning and independence of these authorities in the context of its Annual Rule of Law Cycle[1]. As regards Greece, the 2024 Rule of Law Report[2] took note of investigations by the ombudsperson into alleged misconduct involving law enforcement officers. As further noted in the report, the Commission considers that effective and timely investigations of such incidents are an important demonstration of the ability of competent authorities to deliver an adequate response. The Commission will continue to monitor developments in this area and will provide an up-to-date assessment in its 2025 Rule of Law Report.

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/policies/justice-and-fundamental-rights/upholding-rule-law/rule-law/annual-rule-law-cycle_en.
    • [2] 2024 Rule of Law Report, country chapter on the rule of law situation in Greece. Available at: https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/6741f4b2-6a10-44ba-b40c-97a5a38e6827_en?filename=21_1_58062_coun_chap_greece_en.pdf.
    Last updated: 21 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Withdrawal of the Horizontal Anti-Discrimination Directive – P-001330/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. Striving for equality for all and equality in all of its senses continues to be central to the Commission’s work to comprehensively tackle discrimination in the EU. This is why the Commission is fully committed to continue leading efforts at the EU level to do more for everyone to live freely, thrive and lead, regardless of who they are, particularly with the new strategies to be adopted on lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, non-binary, intersex and queer (LGBTIQ) equality, anti-racism and gender equality, the full implementation of the Strategic framework for Roma equality[1], the strategy for the rights of persons with disabilities[2] and the recent adoption of the Roadmap for women’s rights[3].

    2. In line with the interinstitutional agreement on better law making[4], the Commission provided the reasons proposing the intended withdrawal in the Annex IV of the 2025 Commission work programme, together with a time indication[5]. The Commission will take due account of the positions of the European Parliament and the Council before deciding on the withdrawal of the proposal.

    3. The proposal for the Equal Treatment Directive[6] file has been under discussion for almost 17 years and almost every Presidency has placed the file on the agenda of the Council, including the comprehensive efforts to arrive at a compromise text of the Belgian Presidency during the first half of 2024. However, despite all these efforts and the Commission comprehensively supporting the legislative process, it has not been possible to reach the required unanimity and there is no clear prospect that unanimity could be reached in the foreseeable future.

    • [1] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_20_1813.
    • [2] https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/policies/justice-and-fundamental-rights/disability/union-equality-strategy-rights-persons-disabilities-2021-2030_en.
    • [3] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_25_681.
    • [4] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/agree_interinstit/2016/512/oj/eng.
    • [5] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/7617998c-86e6-4a74-b33c-249e8a7938cd_en?filename=COM_2025_45_1_annexes_EN.pdf.
    • [6] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:52008PC0426.
    Last updated: 21 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Problems with the security company responsible for EUPOL COPPS – E-001477/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Page Group Ltd is a United Kingdom based private security company (PSC) providing security services to the European Union Mission for the Support of Palestinian Police and Rule of Law[1] ( EUPOL COPPS). The company delivers security services such as 24/7 on-site guarding of the premises and monitors all moves of the Mission and the security situation in the area of operations.

    The strike of the PSC personnel started on 8 January 2025 and ended on 22 January 2025. Page Group Ltd informed EUPOL COPPS that the interruption of the service was due to internal issues between Page Group Ltd and its local employees falling outside the remits of EUPOL COPPS. The Mission immediately requested the management of Page Group Ltd to resolve the issue as soon as possible.

    In parallel, a business continuity plan was implemented by EUPOL COPPS for the duration of the strike, focusing on a seamless continuation of the provision of the security services such as Warden and Duty Security Officer duties using Mission staff.

    • [1] https://eupolcopps.eu/.
    Last updated: 21 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Russian shadow fleet and the environmental risk for our European waters and coastal communities – need for more action against the shadow fleet in the 16th sanctions package – E-000628/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Targeting the so-called Russian shadow fleet has been an integral part of several sanctions packages against Russia adopted by the Council. The most recent 16th package of sanctions against Russia, adopted by the Council 24 February 2025, which was designed to further ramp up pressure on the aggressor, touches upon vital sectors of the Russian economy such as energy, trade, transport, infrastructure and financial services and introduces further measures aimed at tackling circumvention. In this latter respect, the 16th package adds further vessels to the list of those subject to a port access ban and a ban on the provision of a broad range of services related to maritime transport. This concerns non-EU tankers which are part of Russia’s shadow fleet circumventing the oil price cap mechanism while conducting irregular and high-risk shipping practices — thus possibly posing safety and/or environmental risks –, support the energy sector of Russia, or vessels that are responsible for transporting military equipment for Russia or stolen Ukrainian grain. In total, 153 vessels from third countries are currently listed.

    The Council explicitly acknowledges the environmental risks posed by Russia’s shadow fleet. Those risks have in particular been flagged by the International Maritime Organisation in its General Assembly resolution A.1192(33), adopted on 6 December 2023. Recital 6 of Council Decision (CFSP) 2025/388 of 24 February 2025 indicates that ‘for the purposes of those oil exports, Russia is increasingly reliant on a fleet of vessels involved in substandard and high-risk shipping practices such as operating with inadequate or inexistent insurance (“shadow fleet”). Those vessels pose significant maritime safety and environmental risks for the Union, its coastal Member States and third-country coastal states. […] Discouraging persons and entities from undertaking and facilitating high-risk shipping practices when transporting Russian-origin oil and disrupting shadow

    fleet operations therefore contribute to undermining revenue generation for the Russian war efforts while at the same time supporting international measures to preserve and improve the quality of the environment’. This is why the Council introduced a new listing criterion as part of the 16th package targeting those who support the operations of tankers transporting Russian oil while conducting irregular and high-risk shipping practices as set out in the International Maritime Organisation General Assembly resolution A.1192(33). The objective is to disrupt the network behind the too-often unsafe oil tankers that now widely support Russian oil exports, which will help in turn to address circumvention of the oil price cap and environmental risks linked to the shadow fleet.

    Last updated: 21 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Attacks on the Nord Stream gas pipelines – E-000623/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    This matter concerns issues of implementing EU law, which does not fall in principle within the competence of the Council. The Council does not have access to the Schengen Information System (SIS), which is a highly secure and protected database exclusively accessible to authorised users within competent authorities, such as the police and the border guard. These authorities are the sole responsible for data processing in the SIS, including entering and consulting alerts on persons.

    Last updated: 21 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Executive agency for education, culture and audiovisual – recovery of funds – E-000933/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Commission Decision C(2023)5035 final of 19 July 2023 outlines the grounds for the enforced recovery procedure. It was established that Projekt Forum Zdruzenie (PFZ), coordinator of the project ‘Mirrors of Europe’ failed to respect its substantial obligations under the Grant Agreement signed for the above-mentioned project. As such, it was requested to return the EU funding due to this breach of obligations.

    Regarding the co-financing of the project, it was established that the documents provided by the project coordinator, including the financial statement was still not balanced and therefore did not comply with the requirements of the Grant Agreement, and that there was no financial contribution made by PFZ and its co-organisers to the project.

    The Commission is aware of the claim initiated in 2019 by the project coordinator, and of the decision by the European Ombudsman[1], who found no maladministration in the Education and Culture Executive Agency’s decision to recover the funds. Once all means of recovering the funds unduly received by the project, as put in place by the Commission services and the Agency, had failed (including debit note, reminders, formal notices, full repayment, repayment by instalment, offsetting, etc.), the sole remaining action was the enforced recovery procedure initiated via the above-mentioned Commission Decision.

    Commission Decision C(2023)5035 outlines the grounds for the enforced recovery procedure.

    • [1] European Ombudsman https://www.ombudsman.europa.eu/en/decision/en/120801.
    Last updated: 21 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Justification and conditionality of financial support to South Africa under the Global Gateway initiative – E-001120/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU and South Africa (SA) have a Strategic Partnership based, among other, on democratic values and human rights, as exemplified by the recent EU-SA Summit, where the EU announced the Global Gateway Investment Package with South Africa to which the Honourable Member refers. This package will mainly support projects promoting SA’s clean and just energy transition. In the context of this partnership, the EU and SA are engaged in a regular human rights dialogue.

    With Global Gateway, the EU aims to embed democratic principles, and transparency in all investments. The EU assesses in each country whether the required pre-conditions for investments exist, including regarding human rights.

    When the Commission becomes aware of any suspected cases of fraud, corruption or any other illegal activity affecting the EU budget, it takes all measures deemed fit and informs without delay the European Anti-Fraud Office and, where applicable, the European Public Prosecutor’s Office.

    The new Financial Regulation (Article 6(3))[1] makes an explicit reference to the EU values, including human dignity, freedom, democracy, and the rights of minorities, and requires that the EU budget be implemented in full respect of such values. In cases of serious human rights violations, the Commission may take precautionary and/or corrective measures such as suspending or terminating contracts, carrying out internal or external audits, verifying expenditures, and applying other relevant controls.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/2509?utm_source.
    Last updated: 21 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Xinjiang launches first direct cargo air route to Baltic region

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    URUMQI, May 21 (Xinhua) — A cargo plane carrying 51 tonnes of e-commerce goods took off from northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region on Wednesday and arrived in Estonia’s capital Tallinn, marking the launch of the first direct cargo air route from Xinjiang to the Baltic region.

    The new route will be operated once a week by a Boeing 767 cargo aircraft, with a one-way flight time of approximately 11 hours. Compared with conventional aircraft, this aircraft offers 30 percent more cargo capacity, primarily transporting light industry products such as clothing and daily necessities, effectively reducing logistics costs.

    According to Feng Liang, general manager of Xinjiang Wanshengtong Supply Chain Management Co, Ltd., the air route will provide Chinese merchants with the opportunity to directly interact with e-commerce platforms in Northern Europe and help improve the shopping experience of consumers in the region.

    To date, 20 international cargo air routes have been launched from Xinjiang’s capital Urumqi to 20 cities, including 12 routes covering key hubs in Northern, Eastern and Western Europe.

    From January to April 2025, the customs office of Urumqi Diwopu International Airport handled 1,584 cargo flights, a whopping 1,157.1 percent increase year-on-year, and the cargo turnover of this airport reached 26,000 tons, an increase of 522.2 percent compared with the same period last year.

    The regular operation of multiple international air cargo routes will help Xinjiang-based cross-border e-commerce companies expand their presence in overseas markets, boosting exports of textiles, electronics and other competitive products and promoting the quality and efficiency of trade among Belt and Road Initiative participants, said Zhao Beijing, an official with Diwopu Customs. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister Joly to tour leading automotive testing and research facility and meet with members of the industry

    Source: Government of Canada News

    May 21, 2025 – Oshawa, Ontario

    The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, will visit a leading automotive testing and research facility and meet with representatives of the automotive sector to discuss a path forward for the industry.

    Date: Thursday, May 22, 2025

    Time: 9:30 am (ET) – Tour of facility
               4:00 pm (ET) – Meeting with members of the industry

    Location: Oshawa, Ontario

    Minister Joly will not answer questions from the media during the tour, but members of the media are invited to take footage.

    Minister Joly will participate in a scrum and take questions from media prior to the meeting with members of the industry.

    Members of the media are asked to contact ISED Media Relations at media@ised-isde.gc.ca to receive event location details and confirm their attendance. 

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: Check Point Software Technologies Named One of America’s Best Cybersecurity Companies by Newsweek and Statista

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    REDWOOD CITY, Calif., May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Check Point® Software Technologies Ltd. (NASDAQ: CHKP), a pioneer and global leader of cyber security solutions, today announced it has been recognized on Newsweek’s 2025 list of America’s Best Cybersecurity Companies. This prestigious acknowledgment underscores Check Point’s commitment to delivering AI-powered security solutions and its dedication to preventing cyber threats and protecting digital trust globally.

    Newsweek’s annual ranking, developed in collaboration with Statista, evaluates companies based on public sentiment and expert evaluations, covering topics including service quality, professional quality, product satisfaction, false positive rate and threat response time criteria including innovation, customer satisfaction, and overall excellence in cybersecurity. Check Point’s inclusion in this list highlights its role as a trusted partner for over 100,000 organizations worldwide, offering comprehensive security across networks, cloud environments, endpoints, and mobile devices.

    “We are honored to be recognized by Newsweek as one of America’s Best Cybersecurity Companies,” said Shashi Kiran, Chief Marketing Officer at Check Point Software. “This accolade reflects our team’s relentless pursuit of excellence and our mission to secure and empower organizations to operate confidently in today’s digital landscape.”

    This recognition adds to a series of accolades for Check Point, including being named one of the World’s Best Companies by TIME and Statista in 2024 and earning a spot on the Forbes list of the World’s Best Employers for five consecutive years.

    Follow Check Point via:
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/check-point-software-technologies
    X: https://www.twitter.com/checkpointsw
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/checkpointsoftware
    Blog: https://blog.checkpoint.com
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/CPGlobal

    About Check Point Software Technologies Ltd. 

    Check Point Software Technologies Ltd. (www.checkpoint.com) is a leading protector of digital trust, utilizing AI-powered cyber security solutions to safeguard over 100,000 organizations globally. Through its Infinity Platform and an open garden ecosystem, Check Point’s prevention-first approach delivers industry-leading security efficacy while reducing risk. Employing a hybrid mesh network architecture with SASE at its core, the Infinity Platform unifies the management of on-premises, cloud, and workspace environments to offer flexibility, simplicity and scale for enterprises and service providers.

    Legal Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements  
    This press release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements generally relate to future events or our future financial or operating performance. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements related to our expectations regarding future growth, the expansion of Check Point’s industry leadership, the enhancement of shareholder value and the delivery of an industry-leading cyber security platform to customers worldwide. Our expectations and beliefs regarding these matters may not materialize, and actual results or events in the future are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those projected. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are also subject to other risks and uncertainties, including those more fully described in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 2, 2024. The forward-looking statements in this press release are based on information available to Check Point as of the date hereof, and Check Point disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, except as required by law.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: KGN Cloud Launches Intelligent Cloud Mining Platform AI Reshapes Crypto Landscape

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York City, NY, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Following never-before-seen crypto rises, KGN Cloud, the innovative digital mining venture of KGN Investing Limited, has rolled out an AI-integrated, ready framework for legislation and an environment-friendly cloud mining platform. Major nations are speeding up their regulatory frameworks for digital assets ,when Bitcoin is already above $80,000, and KGN Cloud, now made available to individuals and businesses, facilitates the mining of top cryptocurrencies without owning physical rigs or dealing with complicated setups.

    New users get an automatic bonus of $100 after registration, which they can use to start mining in minutes.

    “The alignment of AI, energy sustainability, and global regulatory convergence has created a perfect milieu for intelligent mining,” said Rachel M. Jones, Chief Product Officer, KGN Cloud. “This is a platform we created to bring everyone—from the freshers in crypto to hedge funds—a trusted entry point into blockchain mining.”

    Crypto’s Historic 2025 Rally: The Numbers Behind the Boom

    Bitcoin hit $80,000 on May 10th, 2025, according to CoinMetrics and Messari, as a result of a combination of spot ETF approvals in the US, Hong Kong, and the UAE, as well as increasing interest for Ethereum Layer 2 solutions and institutional DeFi.

    Key market trends fueling demand for mining:

    • Spot Bitcoin ETF inflows exceeded $14B in April 2025 alone
    • Ethereum (ETH) surged 30% in Q2 as staking rewards hit record highs
    • Solana (SOL) and Avalanche (AVAX) are seeing adoption across real-world asset (RWA) tokenization
    • Global mining hash rate hit a new high of 660 EH/s post-halving, pushing smaller miners toward cloud-based options

    As a result, cloud mining is seeing an unprecedented surge in demand.

    Enter KGN Cloud: Mining Powered by AI, Sustainability, and Simplicity

    Traditionally, mining is beset with the barriers of hardware costs, inefficient use of energy, and absence of technical expertise; KGN Cloud deals with all these issues. There will be no capital costs because the platform will allow on-demand, Web-based access to the mining of Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other proof-of-work coins, using AI-enabled optimization—all this from anywhere with an Internet connection.

    Platform Highlights:

    • AI Predictive Allocation: Algorithmic intelligence predicts block difficulty shifts and reallocates hash power accordingly
    • Green Mining Infrastructure: Partnerships with hydro and solar-powered data centers in Canada, Norway, and Iceland
    • Zero Maintenance: KGN handles all technical configurations, upgrades, and storage
    • 24/7 Dashboard Access: Monitor earnings, switch coins, and reinvest profits instantly
    • Daily Payouts in BTC/ETH/USDT: Users can withdraw earnings anytime

    Real-Time Plan Examples (as of May 2025):

    • Starter AI Plan – $300, 3-day contract, return: ~$330
    • Optimized Yield Plan – $1,200, 5-day contract, return: ~$1,350
    • AI Green Plan – $5,000, 10-day contract, return: ~$6,050
    • Institutional Pro Plan – $10,000, 14-day contract, return: ~$12,800

    All plans include automated reinvestment options and 100% uptime guarantees.

    Crypto Goes Green: Cloud Mining’s Carbon Pivot

    The recently released G20 Digital Finance Taskforce aims to ensure that by 2026, 80% of all crypto mining operations will be tasked to meet net-zero emissions goals in key jurisdictions such as the EU, UAE, and Canada.

    In anticipation of said regulatory shift, KGN Cloud was built with low-emission data centers using renewable energy integrations. It is one of the few platforms already poised for full ESG compliance.

    “Regulatory alignment isn’t a threat—it’s the future…Our eco-first mining platform helps investors stay ahead of compliance curves without compromising on profitability,” stated Jones.

    AI + Crypto: From Trend to Necessity

    AI is no longer a buzzword—it’s defining the mining landscape in 2025. KGN Cloud’s proprietary AI engine analyzes:

    • Real-time token volatility
    • Network congestion
    • Global mining pool saturation
    • Gas fees and reward difficulty across BTC, ETH, LTC, etc.

    With the above input arriving every couple of hours, KGN Cloud reestablishes its mining focus, thereby maximizing yields for its users even when the market conditions are hostile.

    Referral Ecosystem: Earn More by Sharing

    In an effort to encourage community growth, KGN Cloud is running a Referral Earnings Program whereby users earn a commission of 5%-7% on each mining contract purchased through their link.

    Top affiliates are given access to exclusive “Pro Contracts,” which include advanced features like auto-compounding strategies and enhanced daily rewards.

    New Markets, New Users: Global Access & Regulation-Ready

    Currently functional in over 160 nations, KGN Cloud also runs its exclusive infrastructure through regulation-friendly hubs including Switzerland, Singapore, and Estonia.

    The said platform conforms to the FATF travel rule standard; UK financial oversight requirements; and the data protections of GDPR.

    “This is what KGN Cloud is for-the globe,” Jones said. “If you’re in Tokyo, you’re in Dubai, you’re in São Paulo-you’re mining securely, legally, and profitably.”

    What’s Ahead for KGN Cloud in 2025?

    KGN Cloud has announced several upcoming product expansions:

    • L2 Mining Pools: Coming Q3, users will be able to mine tokens on Ethereum Layer 2 solutions like Base and Arbitrum
    • Mobile App Launch: A native iOS and Android app is slated for June 2025
    • KGN Tokenized Contracts: Smart contract-based mining with yield-trading will launch via Polygon later this year
    • Enterprise Mining APIs: For hedge funds, DeFi projects, and NFT games needing scalable backend compute power

    Join the Future of AI-Powered Crypto Mining

    Defunct incorporates the aspect of being an old treasure; however, KGN Cloud is mocking the defunct aspect with accessible means of engagement that are compliant and sharp in terms of crypto. With a bulk of retail and institutional investors seeking reasonably easy reach to yield, KGN Cloud indeed opens the gates to the trust formerly established to secure the future of digital finance.

    Register now to receive your $100 bonus and start mining instantly. Start Mining Smarter

    Join thousands earning from digital assets without the complexity.
     Sign up at: https://www.kgncloud.com 

     Support: info@kgncloud.com

    MEDIA Contact:
    Name: Joy  Bennett
    Position: Manager
    City: London
    Country: United Kingdom

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: U.S. Growth Strategy: Boralex Signs Contracts for Two New York Solar Projects Totaling 450 MW

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MONTREAL, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Boralex Inc. (“Boralex” or the “Company”) (TSX: BLX) is pleased to announce it has entered into a Renewable Energy Standard Agreement with the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) to procure Tier-1 RECs from each of its Fort Covington Solar Project and Two Rivers Solar Project, totaling 450 MW. The signing of these contracts marks a significant milestone in Boralex’s contribution to renewable energy in New York and in the Company’s development in this promising market.

    These contracts were awarded as part of NYSERDA’s 2024 Renewable Energy Standard Competitive Solicitation for the purchase of New York Tier-1 Eligible Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs). Each REC represents the environmental attributes of one megawatt-hour of electricity generated from an eligible renewable source such as solar energy.

    The two solar facilities will be located in Franklin and St. Lawrence Counties in upstate New York, with permit applications currently under review by the state Office of Renewable Energy Siting and Electric Transmission:

    “New York is committed to building a clean energy economy, and Boralex is honored to meaningfully contribute toward achieving the State’s renewable energy targets,” said Patrick Decostre, President and Chief Executive Officer of Boralex. “We appreciate NYSERDA’s confidence in our projects. New York State is a strategic growth market for Boralex, and we are proud to support the State’s renewed commitment to advancing clean energy infrastructure.”

    “Our execution of these contracts for the Fort Covington and Two Rivers projects reflects Boralex’s strategic focus on growing our U.S. renewable energy platform,” added Hugues Girardin, Executive Vice President, General Manager North America, Boralex. “We are extremely proud of our teams, whose expertise and dedication continue to drive Boralex’s successful expansion across North America in response to the consistently strong demand for green electricity.”

    “Renewable energy projects like Fort Covington and Two Rivers, are crucial to New York’s clean energy transition,” said NYSERDA President and CEO Doreen M. Harris. “Additionally, public-private partnerships like this will bring meaningful benefits to Franklin and St. Lawrence counties by spurring economic investments and delivering affordable and locally-sourced energy to residents of these communities.”

    “This is very exciting news for our town and the state as it looks to achieve its climate goals,” said Mark Peets, Supervisor of the Town of Brasher. “Throughout the development of this project, Boralex has done an excellent job communicating  the benefits to our community. They’ve listened to our concerns and, more importantly, made meaningful project changes that have helped build trust and support. We look forward to the hundreds of construction jobs, and tens of millions of dollars in economic development these projects will provide.”

    “These developments are great news for our community and the surrounding area,” said Susan Bellor, Supervisor, Town of Massena. “I very much look forward to continuing to strengthen the relationship between Boralex and our town, and I’m excited about the long-term positive economic impact the project will have – not only for the participating landowners, but the broader community.”

    “Small towns like ours don’t often get opportunities like this,” said Pat Manchester, Supervisor of the Town of Fort Covington. “The Fort Covington Solar Project represents a major investment in our community and our future. We’re excited about the jobs, increased tax revenues, and the momentum it brings for sustainable economic growth. Boralex has been a transparent, responsive partner throughout this process, and we’re proud to host a project of this scale and significance.”

    Construction of both projects is expected to begin in 2026, and are expected to be commissioned in 2028. They will bring substantial economic, social, and environmental benefits to New York State and to local communities. Once constructed, the projects will together provide enough energy to power approximately 105,000 homes, support approximately 300 to 400 construction jobs, and create long-term operational roles, further strengthening the local economy and advancing the State’s transition to clean energy.

    Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements  

    Some of the statements contained in this press release, including those regarding the start of construction of the projects and their commissioning, are forward-looking statements based on current expectations, within the meaning of securities legislation. Boralex would like to point out that, by their very nature, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties such that its results or the measure it adopts could differ materially from those indicated by or underlying these statements, or could have an impact on the degree of realization of a particular forward-looking statement. Unless otherwise specified by the Company, the forward-looking statements do not take into account the possible impact on its activities, transactions, non-recurring items or other exceptional items announced or occurring after the statements are made. There can be no assurance as to the materialization of the results, performance, or achievements as expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. Unless required to do so under applicable securities legislation, Boralex management does not assume any obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect new information, future events or other changes. 

    About Boralex

    At Boralex, we have been providing affordable renewable energy accessible to everyone for over 30 years. As a leader in the Canadian market and France’s largest independent producer of onshore wind power, we also have facilities in the United States and development projects in the United Kingdom. Over the past five years, our installed capacity has increased by more than 50% to over 3.2 GW. We are developing a portfolio of projects in development and construction of more than 8 GW in wind, solar and storage projects, guided by our values and our corporate social responsibility (CSR) approach. Through profitable and sustainable growth, Boralex is actively participating in the fight against global warming. Thanks to our fearlessness, our discipline, our expertise and our diversity, we continue to be an industry leader. Boralex’s shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol BLX.

    For more information, visit boralex.com or sedarplus.com. Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.

    For more information

    MEDIA INVESTOR RELATIONS
    Camille Laventure
    Senior Advisor, Public Affairs and External Communications

    Boralex Inc.

    438 883-8580
    camille.laventure@boralex.com

    		 Stéphane Milot
    Vice President, Investor Relations and Financial Planning and Analysis

    Boralex Inc.

    514 213-1045
    stephane.milot@boralex.com
       
    MEDIA – NORTH AMERICA  
    Zachary Hutchins
    Manager, Public Affairs and Communications

    Boralex Inc.

    518 727-6155
    zachary.hutchins@boralex.com

    		  

    Source: Boralex inc.        

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: C&F Financial Corporation Announces Quarterly Dividend

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TOANO, Va., May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The board of directors of C&F Financial Corporation (NASDAQ:CFFI) (the Corporation) has declared a regular cash dividend of 46 cents per share, which is payable July 1, 2025 to shareholders of record on June 13, 2025.

    The Board of Directors of the Corporation continually reviews the amount of cash dividends per share and the resulting dividend payout ratio in light of changes in economic conditions, current and future capital requirements, and expected future earnings.

    About C&F

    C&F Bank operates 31 banking offices and four commercial loan offices located throughout eastern and central Virginia and offers full wealth management services through its subsidiary C&F Wealth Management, Inc. C&F Mortgage Corporation and its subsidiary C&F Select LLC provide mortgage loan origination services through offices located in Virginia and the surrounding states. C&F Finance Company is a regional finance company purchasing automobile, marine and recreational vehicle loans primarily in the Mid-Atlantic, Midwest and Southern United States from its headquarters in Henrico, Virginia.

    Additional information regarding the Corporation’s products and services, as well as access to its filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, are available on the Corporation’s website at http://www.cffc.com.

    Contact: Jason Long
    Chief Financial Officer and Secretary
    (804) 843-2360

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: C&F Financial Corporation Announces Quarterly Dividend

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TOANO, Va., May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The board of directors of C&F Financial Corporation (NASDAQ:CFFI) (the Corporation) has declared a regular cash dividend of 46 cents per share, which is payable July 1, 2025 to shareholders of record on June 13, 2025.

    The Board of Directors of the Corporation continually reviews the amount of cash dividends per share and the resulting dividend payout ratio in light of changes in economic conditions, current and future capital requirements, and expected future earnings.

    About C&F

    C&F Bank operates 31 banking offices and four commercial loan offices located throughout eastern and central Virginia and offers full wealth management services through its subsidiary C&F Wealth Management, Inc. C&F Mortgage Corporation and its subsidiary C&F Select LLC provide mortgage loan origination services through offices located in Virginia and the surrounding states. C&F Finance Company is a regional finance company purchasing automobile, marine and recreational vehicle loans primarily in the Mid-Atlantic, Midwest and Southern United States from its headquarters in Henrico, Virginia.

    Additional information regarding the Corporation’s products and services, as well as access to its filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, are available on the Corporation’s website at http://www.cffc.com.

    Contact: Jason Long
    Chief Financial Officer and Secretary
    (804) 843-2360

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: MEDIA ADVISORY: Sanders to Call on Republicans to Support Trump, Lower Prescription Drug Prices

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Vermont – Bernie Sanders
    WASHINGTON, May 21 – After President Trump issued a vague executive order claiming to slash drug costs by linking them to international prices, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP), today announced he would ask for unanimous consent on the Senate floor to pass legislation that would actually do just that by ensuring Americans pay no more than people in other countries for the exact same prescription drug, forcing anyone who opposes actually lowering drug prices to rise in opposition.
    On May 5, 2025, President Trump issued an executive order entitled “Delivering Most-Favored-Nation Prescription Drug Pricing to American Patients.” In that order, he proposes a “a rulemaking plan to impose most-favored-nation pricing” but does not cite specific legislative authority. As a result, the executive order will be blocked by the courts. Congressional action is needed.
    The Prescription Drug Price Relief Act will put an end to the greed of the pharmaceutical industry and help save lives by lowering drug prices. This legislation would ensure Americans do not pay more for prescription drugs than the median price paid in Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany and Japan.
    Details:
    What: Sen. Sanders floor speech calling for unanimous consent to pass legislation to make sure Americans pay no more than people in other countries for prescription drugs
    When: Wednesday, May 21, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. ET
    Where: Senate floor. His remarks will also be livestreamed on Sanders’ social media.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ricketts Leads Beef Month Resolution

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Pete Ricketts (Nebraska)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) introduced a resolution to designate May 2025 as Beef Month in America. Ricketts is a longtime champion — and enjoyer — of Nebraska beef. Senators Deb Fischer (R-NE), Roger Marshall (R-KS), and John Cornyn (R-TX) co-led this resolution.
    “Nebraska is the beef state. Last year, we led the nation with over $2 billion in beef exports. We lead the nation in commercial cattle slaughter, with 6.8 million head. We have the top three beef-producing counties in the nation,” said Ricketts. “Nebraska’s ranchers feed the world. Cattle and beef production delivers billions of dollars to our economy every year. This month, we honor hard-working cattlewomen and men.”
    “Nebraska is the beef state – and we’re proud of it,” said Senator Fischer. ”I want to thank Senator Ricketts for leading this resolution to officially designate May as National Beef Month and recognize the important role Nebraska’s ranchers play in raising cattle and producing high quality beef.”
    “Thanks to the work of America’s cattle producers, nothing compares to our nation’s beef,” Senator Marshall said. “From gate to plate, beef plays a crucial role in our economy and our diets. As the third-largest red meat-producing state in the nation, hundreds of Kansas communities are built on the cattle industry, and I’m proud to partner with Senators Ricketts and Fischer to recognize May as National Beef Month.” 
    “Texas ranchers are the backbone of America’s beef supply, and their hard work is often done in dark hours and without thanks. I’m proud to join Senator Ricketts and my colleagues on a resolution to recognize May as National Beef Month,” said Sen. Cornyn.
    “As the number one beef exporting state in the nation, Nebraska is home to thousands of hardworking beef cattle producers who are proud to provide consumers with the safest, highest-quality, and most delicious beef in the world,” said Nebraska Cattlemen President Dick Pierce. “We thank Senator Ricketts for recognizing the importance of nutritious American beef to our nation.”
    “We want to thank Nebraska Senator Pete Ricketts for introducing a Senate Resolution recognizing May 2025 as National Beef Month and proudly join in celebrating the vital role beef plays in Nebraska’s economy, culture, and rural communities,” said Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation President Mark McHargue. ”Nebraska leads the nation in commercial red meat production and ranks first in cattle on feed, with the beef industry contributing over $12 billion annually to our state’s economy. Nebraska’s cattle producers are committed to producing high-quality beef that feeds families across the country and around the world. This resolution honors their hard work and reinforces the importance of our state’s #1 industry, beef production.”
    The text of the resolution can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Foreign Aid as a Tool of U.S. Foreign Policy

    Source: United States of America – Department of State (video statements)

    Foreign aid is a tool of our foreign policy. It is not the only tool of our foreign policy. It has to be taken in conjunction with all of these other things that we do, and they have to be intertwined. — Secretary of State Marco Rubio to the Senate Appropriations Committee

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xHSaVi1K7_I

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Ahead of the Threat Podcast: Episode 10 – Hugh Thompson

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) (video statements)

    The show is on the road! Filming on location at the annual RSAC Conference in San Francisco, hosts Bryan Vorndran and Jamil Farshchi welcome Dr. Hugh Thompson, the executive chairman of RSAC and the program coordinator of the RSAC Conference. The annual conference gathers thousands of cybersecurity officials from the private and public sector to discuss ways to thwart attacks and institute best practices. In this episode, Dr. Thompson highlights the importance of government participation, how to keep the relationships and knowledge-sharing going throughout the year, and the importance of being community-oriented to ensure effective cybersecurity postures against criminal adversaries.

    More at: https://www.fbi.gov/video-repository/e10a_video.mp4/view
    —————————————————
    Subscribe to Inside the FBI wherever you get your podcasts:
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4H2d3cg…
    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast…
    Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0…
    More ways to follow us: https://inside-the-fbi.transistor.fm/…

    Follow us on social media:
    X: https://twitter.com/fbi
    Facebook: https://facebook.com/FBI
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/fbi
    YouTube: youtube.com/user/fbi

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vMNIHF4A-sk

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Sara Jacobs Grills Secretary Marco Rubio on President Trump’s Conflicts of Interest in UAE while Ignoring UAE’s Funding of Genocide in Sudan

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sara Jacobs (D-CA-53)

    May 21, 2025

    Rep. Sara Jacobs (CA-51) grilled Secretary Marco Rubio on President Trump’s conflicts of interest in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). In recent weeks, the Trump Organization has announced plans to build an 80-story Trump Tower in Dubai, and President Trump’s crypto company, World Liberty Financial, has secured a $2 billion deal with an Emirati company with deep ties to the government. Then the Trump Administration blew through a congressional hold on over $1.5 billion in arms sales to the UAE, which continues to arm and fund the Rapid Support Forces’ genocide in Sudan.

    Watch Rep. Sara Jacobs Here

    Rep. Sara Jacobs said: “Mr. Secretary, I want to turn to the war in Sudan. This is, as you know, the world’s largest displacement and humanitarian crisis, half a million people are facing famine. I saw firsthand the suffering when I visited Sudanese refugees in Chad.

    “Earlier this year and again yesterday, you reiterated that the Rapid Support Forces, a militia, is committing genocide in Sudan. Is that correct?” 

    Secretary Marco Rubio said: “We’re very concerned about what both sides are doing frankly, but the RSF in particular.” 

    Rep. Sara Jacobs said: “Correct, I agree with that. You also said that, as part of that, all of our engagement with the UAE, we need to ‘raise the fact that they’re openly supporting an entity that is carrying out a genocide.’ And yet, President Trump continues to arm the UAE. In fact, he just blew through Ranking Member Meeks’ congressional hold on over $1 billion in arms sales, ignoring this Committee’s longstanding role as an independent check on major arms sales. Now, we can have a policy debate on the merits of whether to arm the UAE or not, despite this genocide. I had that conversation with Secretary Blinken. But actually, I want to talk about the events that led up to that decision. 

    “So on April 30th, the Trump Organization, which Donald Trump still owns, unveiled plans to build an 80-story Trump Tower in Dubai. 

    “On May 1, Trump’s crypto company, World Liberty Financial, secured a $2 billion deal with an Emirati company with deep ties to the government.

    “And only 11 days later, on May 12, your Department notified our committee that it would ignore Ranking Member Meeks’ holds on UAE arms sales.

    “Secretary Rubio, we have a President who is personally profiting from a deal with a foreign government-backed company at the same time he is selling lethal weapons to that same government. Isn’t that a clear conflict of interest?”

    Secretary Marco Rubio said: “I think no matter who is president, they would have to deal with the UAE. We have to. They’re a member of…

    Rep. Sara Jacobs said: “That’s not my question. We can have a policy debate about how we should engage with the UAE. I was just there a few weeks ago.

    Secretary Marco Rubio said: “You’re making claims about corruption. I’m trying to answer them. Any President in the United States – I don’t care who it is – has to deal with the UAE. They’re a member of the Abraham Accords, number one. They’ve been incredibly cooperative on a bunch of other issues. We don’t agree with them 100%. We have some concerns about some of the things they do. But this is called the balancing of our foreign policy. It is in our national interest to have a good relationship with the UAE. And sometimes they do things we don’t like.

    Rep. Sara Jacobs said: “Secretary Rubio, I don’t disagree with you. I just visited the UAE a couple weeks ago and had these very same conversations there and I don’t think this is a complicated question. President Trump is personally profiting from a deal with a foreign government and selling weapons to that same government who is enabling a genocide. Policy aside, are you really saying you don’t think this is a conflict of interest?

    Secretary Marco Rubio said: “No, you’re making claims. The president’s family owns a business and they can conduct business anywhere in the world they want. The president has never once raised business deals in the UAE when talking about…Any President would have to have a relationship with the UAE.

    Rep. Sara Jacobs said: “Secretary Rubio, that’s just silly. President Trump has retained his ownership of these companies and I have an image right here from World Liberty Financial’s website, so the idea that President Trump is not the face of the brand of this company on top of benefiting from them. And it literally says on the website that Mr. Trump and his family members own a 60% stake in this company. That’s silly. We can talk about the policy merits – that’s not what I’m asking you. I’m asking you a very simple question: do you believe that it’s a conflict of interest to have a president personally profiting from a deal with a foreign government while selling weapons to that same government who is enabling a genocide?

    Secretary Marco Rubio said: “I don’t…I don’t accept the premise of your question. I think this has nothing to do with personally benefiting from anything. This has to do with the fact that in order to conduct foreign policy in the Middle East, you’re going to have to deal with the UAE. You have to have deals in place with the UAE.

    Rep. Sara Jacobs said: “Mr. Secretary, this is a clear conflict of interest. Anyone with any common sense can see that. The President is personally benefiting from billions of dollars in deals, and he doesn’t care at all about the people of Sudan who are experiencing famine and genocide.

    “It’s shocking to me that you can’t admit that. It’s clear to me that you seem more concerned about staying in Trump’s good graces than sticking up for human rights and American values that you once were a champion for. With that, I’m going to yield the rest of my time to Representative Olszewski.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –