NewzIntel.com

Category: CTF

  • MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in LaRue County

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in LaRue County

    Disaster Recovery Center Opens in LaRue County

    FRANKFORT, Ky

    – A Disaster Recovery Center has opened in LaRue County to offer in-person support to Kentucky survivors who experienced loss as the result of the April severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides

    The new Disaster Recovery Center in LaRue County is located at: Emergency Medical Services Classroom, 924 South Lincoln Blvd

    , Hodgenville, KY 42748 Working hours are 9 a

    m

    to 7 p

    m

    Eastern Time, Monday through Saturday and 1 – 7 p

    m

    Eastern Time, Sunday

    FEMA representatives can explain available assistance programs, how to apply to FEMA and help connect survivors with resources for their recovery needs

     FEMA is encouraging Kentuckians affected by the April storms to apply for federal disaster assistance as soon as possible

    The deadline to apply is June 25

    You can visit any Disaster Recovery Center to get in-person assistance

    No appointment is needed

    To find all other center locations, including those in other states, go to fema

    gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362

     You don’t have to visit a center to apply for FEMA assistance

    There are other ways to apply: online at DisasterAssistance

    gov, use the FEMA App for mobile devices or call 800-621-3362

    If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service

    When you apply, you will need to provide:A current phone number where you can be contacted

    Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying

    Your Social Security Number

    A general list of damage and losses

    Banking information if you choose direct deposit

    If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name

    For more information about Kentucky flooding recovery, visit www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4860 and www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4864

    Follow the FEMA Region 4 X account at x

    com/femaregion4

    martyce

    allenjr
    Tue, 05/20/2025 – 13:23

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hubble Images Galaxies Near and Far

    Source: NASA

    This NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope image offers us the chance to see a distant galaxy now some 19.5 billion light-years from Earth (but appearing as it did around 11 billion years ago, when the galaxy was 5.5 billion light-years away and began its trek to us through expanding space). Known as HerS 020941.1+001557, this remote galaxy appears as a red arc partially encircling a foreground elliptical galaxy located some 2.7 billion light-years away. Called SDSS J020941.27+001558.4, the elliptical galaxy appears as a bright dot at the center of the image with a broad haze of stars outward from its core. A third galaxy, called SDSS J020941.23+001600.7, seems to be intersecting part of the curving, red crescent of light created by the distant galaxy.
    The alignment of this trio of galaxies creates a type of gravitational lens called an Einstein ring. Gravitational lenses occur when light from a very distant object bends (or is ‘lensed’) around a massive (or ‘lensing’) object located between us and the distant lensed galaxy. When the lensed object and the lensing object align, they create an Einstein ring. Einstein rings can appear as a full or partial circle of light around the foreground lensing object, depending on how precise the alignment is. The effects of this phenomenon are much too subtle to see on a local level but can become clearly observable when dealing with curvatures of light on enormous, astronomical scales.
    Gravitational lenses not only bend and distort light from distant objects but magnify it as well. Here we see light from a distant galaxy following the curve of spacetime created by the elliptical galaxy’s mass. As the distant galaxy’s light passes through the gravitational lens, it is magnified and bent into a partial ring around the foreground galaxy, creating a distinctive Einstein ring shape.
    The partial Einstein ring in this image is not only beautiful, but noteworthy. A citizen scientist identified this Einstein ring as part of the SPACE WARPS project that asked citizen scientists to search for gravitational lenses in images.
    Text Credit: ESA/Hubble

    Media Contact:
    Claire Andreoli (claire.andreoli@nasa.gov)NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, MD

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Andrea Harrington’s Vision Paves the Way for Lunar Missions 

    Source: NASA

    When future astronauts set foot on Mars, they will stand on decades of scientific groundwork laid by people like Andrea Harrington.  
    As NASA’s sample return curation integration lead, Harrington is helping shape the future of planetary exploration and paving the way for interplanetary discovery.  

    Harrington works in NASA’s Astromaterials Research and Exploration Sciences Division, or ARES, at Johnson Space Center in Houston, where she integrates curation, science, engineering, and planetary protection strategies into the design and operation of new laboratory facilities and sample handling systems. She also helps ensure that current and future sample collections—from lunar missions to asteroid returns—are handled with scientific precision and preserved for long-term study.  
    “I am charged with protecting the samples from Earth—and protecting Earth from the restricted samples,” Harrington said. This role requires collaboration across NASA centers, senior leadership, engineers, the scientific community, and international space exploration agencies. 
    With a multidisciplinary background in biology, planetary science, geochemistry, and toxicology, Harrington has become a key expert in developing the facility and contamination control requirements needed to safely preserve and study sensitive extraterrestrial samples. She works closely with current and future curators to improve operational practices and inform laboratory specifications—efforts that will directly support future lunar missions. 

    Her work has already made a lasting impact. She helped develop technologies such as a clean closure system to reduce contamination during sample handling and ultraclean, three-chamber inert isolation cabinets. These systems have become standard equipment and are used for preserving samples from missions like OSIRIS-REx and Hayabusa2. They have also supported the successful processing of sensitive Apollo samples through the Apollo Next Generation Sample Analysis Program. 
    In addition to technology development, Harrington co-led the assessment of high-containment and pristine facilities to inform future technology and infrastructural requirements for Restricted Earth Returns, critical for sample returns Mars, Europa, and Enceladus.
    Harrington’s leadership, vision, and technical contribution have reached beyond ARES and have earned her two Director’s Commendations.   
    “The experiences I have acquired at NASA have rounded out my background even more and have provided me with a greater breadth of knowledge to draw upon and then piece together,” said Harrington. “I have learned to trust my instincts since they have allowed me to quickly assess and effectively troubleshoot problems on numerous occasions.” 

    Harrington also serves as the Advanced Curation Medical Geology lead. She and her team are pioneering new exposure techniques that require significantly less sample material to evaluate potential health risks of astromaterials.  
    Her team is studying a range of astromaterial samples and analogues to identify which components may trigger the strongest inflammatory responses, or whether multiple factors are at play. Identifying the sources of inflammation can help scientists assess the potential hazards of handling materials from different planetary bodies, guide decisions about protective equipment for sample processors and curators, and may eventually support astronaut safety on future missions. 
    Harrington also spearheaded a Space Act Agreement to build a science platform on the International Space Station that will enable planetary science and human health experiments in microgravity, advancing both human spaceflight and planetary protection goals.

    Harrington credits her NASA career for deepening her appreciation of the power of communication. “The ability to truly listen and hear other people’s perspectives is just as important as the ability to deliver a message or convey an idea,” she said.  
    Her passion for space science is rooted in purpose. “What drew me to NASA is the premise that what I would be doing was not just for myself, but for the benefit of all,” she said. “Although I am personally passionate about the work I am doing, the fact that the ultimate goal is to enable the fulfillment of those passions for generations of space scientists and explorers to come is quite inspiring.” 

    Harrington loves to travel, whether she is mountain biking through Moab, scuba diving in the Galápagos, or immersing herself in the architecture and culture of cities around the world. She shares her passion for discovery with her family—her older sister, Nicole Reandeau; her twin sister, Jane Valenti; and especially her husband, Alexander Smirnov.
    A lesson she hopes to pass along to the Artemis Generation is the spirit of adventure along with a reminder that exploration comes in many forms.  
    “Artemis missions and the return of pristine samples from another planetary bodies to Earth are steppingstones that will enable us to do even more,” Harrington said. “The experience and lessons learned could help us safely and effectively explore distant worlds, or simply inspire the next generation of explorers to do great things we can’t yet even imagine.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: LACKAWANNA COUNTY – Governor Shapiro to Highlight Positive Results of Historic Investments in K-12 Public Education, Importance of Continuing to Deliver for PA Students

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    May 21, 2025 – Scranton, PA

    ADVISORY – LACKAWANNA COUNTY – Governor Shapiro to Highlight Positive Results of Historic Investments in K-12 Public Education, Importance of Continuing to Deliver for PA Students

    Governor Josh Shapiro will visit Isaac Tripp Elementary School in Scranton to meet with students, teachers, and legislators and highlight how the historic funding he secured for public K-12 education is leading to positive results in schools across the Commonwealth. In his first two budgets, Governor Shapiro secured historic investments in our public schools, students, and teachers, delivering the largest increase in K-12 education funding in Pennsylvania history.

    Governor Shapiro’s 2025-26 budget proposal builds on that foundation by proposing new funding for K-12 public education, with a focus on driving more dollars to the schools that need them most. It also continues our progress to build strong and safe school communities, hire and support our teachers, and expand mental health resources.

    WHO:
    Governor Josh Shapiro
    Representative Bridget Kosierowski
    Dr. Erin Keating, Scranton School District Superintendent
    Ty Holmes, Scranton School Board President

    WHEN:
    Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at 10:00AM

    WHERE:
    Isaac Tripp Elementary School
    1000 N. Everett Avenue,
    Scranton, PA 18504

    LIVE STREAM:
    pacast.com/live/gov
    governor.pa.gov/live/

    RSVP:
    Press who are interested in attending must RSVP with the names and phone numbers for each member of their team to ra-gvgovpress@pa.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Largest ever multi-agency operation seizes $123.5 million in illicit cannabis

    Source: US State of California 2

    May 20, 2025

    What you need to know: State and local law enforcement partners seized $123.5 million in illegal cannabis in the Central Valley.

    SACRAMENTO – In its largest operation to date, the state’s task force dedicated to eradicating illegal cannabis operations conducted a large-scale, multi-agency operation in the Central Valley, leading to the seizure of 105,700 illicit cannabis plants and 22,057 pounds of processed cannabis worth $123.5 million.  

    Through the Unified Cannabis Enforcement Task Force (Task Force), during the week of May 5, 2025, more than 200 sworn officers and staff from 15 state, local, and federal law enforcement partners coordinated a multifaceted search warrant operation through Kern, Kings, and Tulare counties in an area of about 4,600 square miles.

    Let this be a reminder to all who grow cannabis illegally: we won’t tolerate the undermining of our legal industry and impacts to our environment. I appreciate the multi-agency, cross-county efforts to take on the illicit market.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    A total of 71 search warrants were served and nine firearms were confiscated. Throughout the course of the operation, numerous individuals were detained, and several arrests were made. Task Force partners are working with local District Attorney’s offices to file charges and pursue prosecutions. 

    “This operation represents the power of collaboration across agencies with a shared commitment to protecting our natural resources and preserving the integrity of California’s legal cannabis market,” said Director of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife Charlton H. Bonham. “The scale of this historic effort—and its success—would not have been possible without the dedication and coordination of every agency involved.”

    Officers found evidence of banned or restricted pesticides at eight of the locations. These chemicals and waste products pose a serious environmental threat to California’s native species, plants, and habitats and present health risks  to those who ingest the illicit cannabis laced with these products. 

    “This operation sends a clear message: California will not tolerate illicit cannabis activity that threatens public safety, the environment, and the integrity of the legal market,” said Director at the Department of Cannabis Control Nicole Elliott. “The scale of this enforcement effort reflects the strength of our partnerships and our shared commitment to holding illicit operators accountable while protecting communities and ecosystems across the state.”

    The actions announced today, which are expected to significantly disrupt the illicit cannabis market, are on top of the already staggering work done in recent months to take down nefarious cannabis growers, including the $534 million seized by the task force in 2024 alone.  

    In addition to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Department of Cannabis Control, the co-leads of the task force, the following partners were instrumental in the success of this operation:

    • California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation
    • California Department of Tax and Fee Administration
    • California National Guard
    • California State Parks
    • U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)
    • Kern County Sheriff’s Office
    • Kern County Probation Department
    • Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department
    • San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department
    • Kings County Sheriff’s Office
    • Kings County Code Enforcement
    • Kings County District Attorney Investigators
    • Tulare County Sheriff’s Office
    • Tulare County Code Enforcement

    California’s regulated cannabis market is the largest in the world, fostering environmental stewardship, compliance-tested products, and fair labor practices, while driving economic growth and funding vital programs in education, public health, and environmental protection. The Department of Cannabis Control recently released a market outlook report that shows prices are stable, industry value is up, and the licensed market is growing. 

    A unified strategy across California 

    Since its inception in 2022, the Task Force has served 500 search warrants against illicit cannabis operations, seizing and destroying over $650 million in unlicensed cannabis. Operations have resulted in the eradication of more than 800,000 plants and over 220 tons of processed cannabis, along with the seizure of 190 firearms, more than $1 million in cash, and over 50 arrests statewide.

    The cannabis task force was established in 2022 by Governor Newsom to enhance collaboration and enforcement coordination between state, local, and federal partners. Partners on the task force include the Department of Cannabis Control, the Department of Pesticide Regulation, the Department of Toxic Substances Control, and the Department of Fish and Wildlife, among others. 

    To learn more about the legal California cannabis market, state licenses, and laws, visit cannabis.ca.gov.

    Recent news

    May 20, 2025

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today slammed the Congressional Republican and Trump Administration proposal that is advancing in the House of Representatives. According to new figures from the state, the Republican proposal could result in up to…

    May 19, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO— Last week, the Delta Conveyance Design and Construction Authority (DCA) Board of Directors joined the growing list of supporters from across California praising Governor Newsom’s legislative proposals to fast-track the Delta Conveyance Project, a…

    May 19, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO — First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom joined Marcie Frost (CEO, CalPERS) and Cassandra Lichnock (CEO, CalSTRS) at the annual Catalyst event for a candid conversation on the role California’s public institutions can play in opening access to funding…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom: GOP bill would rip health care from up to 3.4 million Californians, cost the state billions, close hospitals and clinics

    Source: US State of California 2

    May 20, 2025

    Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today slammed the Congressional Republican and Trump Administration proposal that is advancing in the House of Representatives. According to new figures from the state, the Republican proposal could result in up to 3.4 million Californians losing their health coverage and put more than an estimated $30 billion in federal funding at risk — gutting the foundation of California’s health care safety net.

    “If Republicans move this extreme MAGA proposal forward, millions will lose coverage, hospitals will close, and safety nets could collapse under the weight. We must sound the alarm because the stakes couldn’t be higher.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Care at risk

    The sweeping changes proposed by House Republicans, combined with newly released federal rules from the Trump Administration, would:

    • Eliminate coverage for up to 3.4 million Californians, largely among those covered under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) expansion
    • Cut at least $22 billion in federal Medicaid funding by imposing burdensome job loss penalties on low-income adults
    • Punish states like California that use state funding to cover undocumented residents for non-emergency benefits by slashing federal support by at least $4 billion annually
    • Restrict vital funding mechanisms, such as provider taxes and certain other payments that support hospitals and providers across California, that would result in the loss of billions of dollars
    • Shut down nonprofit providers like Planned Parenthood by cutting them off from Medicaid funding

    These changes will lead to hospital and clinic closures, increase uncompensated care costs, and roll back the progress California has made in reducing its uninsured rate, threatening the state’s status as a national leader in expanding access to care. 

    California’s health care leadership

    Since taking office, Governor Newsom has made California a national leader in expanding access to health care. Under his leadership, the state became the first in the nation to offer full-scope Medi-Cal to all eligible low-income adults regardless of immigration status — expanding coverage for young adults in 2020, older adults in 2022, and all remaining adults in 2024. While the Governor’s proposed 2025-26 budget makes adjustments to this expansion to ensure fiscal stability and preserve the long-term viability of Medi-Cal for all Californians, California’s commitment to access remains.

    The Newsom Administration has taken action to lower prescription drug costs, expand reproductive health access, and protect coverage for millions of Californians amid federal threats to the Affordable Care Act.

    Recent news

    May 19, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO— Last week, the Delta Conveyance Design and Construction Authority (DCA) Board of Directors joined the growing list of supporters from across California praising Governor Newsom’s legislative proposals to fast-track the Delta Conveyance Project, a…

    May 19, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO — First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom joined Marcie Frost (CEO, CalPERS) and Cassandra Lichnock (CEO, CalSTRS) at the annual Catalyst event for a candid conversation on the role California’s public institutions can play in opening access to funding…

    May 19, 2025

    News What you need to know: California’s battery storage capacity now exceeds 15,700 megawatts, an unprecedented milestone that reflects the Newsom administration’s continued leadership in building the grid of the future. SACRAMENTO — California continues to rapidly…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: IDEX Biometrics ASA: Nomination Committee proposal to the 2025 Annual General Meeting

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    The Nomination Committee of IDEX Biometrics ASA proposes that Morten Opstad, Annika Olsson and Adriana Saitta, all current board members and European residents and nationals, form the new board of directors, with Morten Opstad serving as the Chair. The proposal is that they continue for a new term of two years.

    The full text of the Nomination Committee’s proposal to the 2025 Annual General Meeting in IDEX Biometrics ASA is enclosed.

    For further information, please contact:

    Kristian Flaten, CFO, Tel: +47 95092322

    E-mail: ir@idexbiometrics.com

    About IDEX Biometrics:

    IDEX Biometrics ASA (OSE: IDEX) is a global technology leader in fingerprint biometrics, offering authentication solutions across payments, access control, and digital identity. Our solutions bring convenience, security, peace of mind and seamless user experiences to the world. Built on patented and proprietary sensor technologies, integrated circuit designs, and software, our biometric solutions target card-based applications for payments and digital authentication. As an industry-enabler we partner with leading card manufacturers and technology companies to bring our solutions to market. For more information, visit www.idexbiometrics.com

    About this notice:

    This notice was issued by Kristian Flaten, CFO, on 20 May 2025 at 21:10 CET on behalf of IDEX Biometrics ASA. This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to the Norwegian Securities Trading Act section 5-12.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Connecting Cultures in the Digital Era – General Assembly, 79th session | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Opening and plenary sessions | This interactive dialogue will allow participants to exchange perspectives on promoting the intersection of culture and digital transformation, in the interest of sustainable development.

    ———————————
    Opening Segment
    Plenary Segment

    This interactive dialogue will provide an opportunity for Member States, Observers and relevant stakeholders to give due consideration to the contribution of culture to the achievement of sustainable development through national, regional and international development policies and international cooperation instruments. 

    More specifically, this interactive dialogue will allow participants to exchange perspectives on promoting the intersection of culture and digital transformation, in the interest of sustainable development. By identifying key challenges and unresolved issues, the discussion will help refine policy considerations and areas for international cooperation.

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

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan and Health Care Advocates Join Protect Our Care Virginia As Republicans Charge Ahead With the Largest Medicaid Cuts in History

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (Virginia 4th District)

    GOP’s Proposed Cuts to Medicaid Would Throw 206,000 Virginians Off Their Health Care

    RICHMOND, Va. — In case you missed it, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) on Thursday joined Protect Our Care Virginia to discuss the latest developments in the GOP assault on Medicaid. 

    On Wednesday, the House Energy and Commerce Committee, on which Rep. McClellan serves, completed a 26-hour markup in which Republicans advanced the largest cuts to Medicaid in history in order to meet President Donald Trump’s demands to fund tax breaks for the wealthy. Republicans on the committee approved $715 billion in cuts to health care, mostly to Medicaid, and imposed new reporting requirements that are designed to throw people off the program. 

    Republicans on the House Budget Committee failed to advance the overall package on Friday, citing that they want to see even deeper cuts to Medicaid in Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill.” 

    Using data from the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office, The Commonwealth Institute for Fiscal Analysis (TCI) estimated that 206,000 people will lose Medicaid in Virginia. Additionally, TCI found that 147,000 Virginians who have Medicaid would be subject to up to $35 copays for certain services. Republican Congressman Morgan Griffith (VA-09), who also sits on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, has defended raising out-of-pocket health care costs on Virginians. 

    Due to cuts to Medicaid and a change in a rule to the Affordable Care Act, 8.6 million people will lose their health care under the plan the committee advanced. A total of 13.7 million people will become uninsured when factoring in those who will no longer be able to afford to buy insurance through the ACA marketplaces due to the expiration of enhanced premium tax credits. Republicans are refusing to extend the tax credits past 2025. 

    “Due to these changes, you lose your health insurance under Medicaid, you lose your subsidy to be able to purchase insurance through the Marketplace,” said Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan. “That’s how we get to 13.7 million people who will lose health insurance. Those costs will go to the rest of us. Providers will feel the stress of that. We will have rural hospitals threatening to close again, like we did before we expanded in Virginia. About 200,000 Virginians stand to lose access to their health care here. And why? Why are we doing this? To fund tax cuts for the wealthiest 1% by making the 2017 Trump tax cuts permanent …This is taking away from the least of these to help those who don’t need the help. And that is a big part of the story that my colleagues on the other side of the aisle don’t want to talk about.”

    “When all the proposals under the House Republican health care plan are fully implemented, approximately 206,000 Virginians will lose their health coverage,” said Ashley Kenneth, President of The Commonwealth Institute for Fiscal Analysis. “The people poised to lose their health care already struggle with the high cost of living in our state and cannot afford to pay more for their health care. They will choose to go without insurance because they will have no other choice.”

    “Let me be clear, this is a direct threat to the health care access of tens of thousands of Virginians,” said Jamie Lockhart, Executive Director of Planned Parenthood Advocates of Virginia. “Nearly 25,000 people in Virginia relied on Planned Parenthood health centers last year for cancer screenings, STI treatment, birth control, and more. Medicaid is one of the primary ways those patients pay for care. If this proposal moves forward, they’re not just losing a provider. They’re losing the provider they trust.”

    “So I just want to tell Congress, don’t make it harder for people to get Medicaid, please don’t make it harder to stay on Medicaid, and please don’t question our work ethic, because that is insulting,” said Andrew Daughtry of Henrico County, who suffered multiple on-the-job injuries while working construction. “I couldn’t get health care through my job, but I need Medicaid to pay for the thousands of dollars of injuries that happened on the job. So please don’t pretend that people on Medicaid don’t want to work because I’ve given up my body and my health for the work.”

    “It is not rocket science to see that when people lose their health care, they’re going to start showing up in emergency rooms where hospitals are obligated to treat them. And if no one is reimbursing hospitals for that care, they will go into the red, and they will close,” said Jessica Lazerov, MD, MBA, a pediatrician from Fairfax. “And then everyone in that geographic area, regardless of whether they’re on Medicaid, is going to lose access to their closest hospital. And if these Republicans don’t understand that, then they’re simply not fit to govern.”

    “We love the work we do, and I want to be able to continue to do it for the rest of my life, but cuts in Medicaid may prevent us from doing so,” said SEIU Virginia 512 member Tony Hedgepeth of Richmond, a Medicaid-funded home care worker who cares for veterans.“Taking away Medicaid could sever 47,000 Virginia veterans from their health care or force them to pay more for it. These brave individuals have fought for our country, and we should fight to ensure that they can live and access the best possible quality of life, as they did for us.”

    “Medicaid provides health care to one in every five people in Virginia,” said Katie Baker, state director for Protect Our Care Virginia. “If you aren’t on Medicaid yourself, you know someone who is. Polling shows that the majority of voters believe we should be increasing funding for health care, not cutting it. Republicans are not with the public when it comes to taking away people’s health care.” 

    Event Assets and News Coverage

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Lawler, Lalota, Garbarino, Kim, and Kean Release a Joint Statement Following Today’s GOP Conference Meeting

    Source: US Congressman Mike Lawler (R, NY-17)

    Reps. Lawler, Lalota, Garbarino, Kim, and Kean Release a Joint Statement Following Today’s GOP Conference Meeting

    Washington, D.C. , May 20, 2025

    Washington, D.C. – 5/20/2025… Today, Reps. Mike Lawler (NY-17), Nick LaLota (NY-01), Andrew Garbarino (NY-02), Tom Kean Jr. (NJ-07), and Young Kim (CA-40) released the following joint statement: 

    “We share President Trump’s call for unity within the House Republican Conference. A fair SALT deduction is a matter of fundamental fairness for the hardworking families we represent, including the many who proudly support President Trump and voted for him, in part, because he promised to restore SALT. We hope his remarks today motivate the Speaker to advance a SALT proposal that delivers meaningful relief for our middle-class constituents, as we have worked in good faith with House Leadership for more than a year. Our states are donor states, consistently subsidizing so-called fiscally responsible red states,” stated the lawmakers. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Strategic independence from US software – E-001618/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001618/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Per Clausen (The Left)

    Today, both the EU and its Member States are heavily dependent on US firms’ IT solutions. Not only does that dependence constitute a strategic vulnerability; continued dependence also means that, every year, large amounts of European public funds are transferred to software firms in the US instead of contributing to building a competitive European IT sector.

    The present geopolitical situation makes it clear that the EU needs to be independent from the US in a number of areas, including technology. A number of countries have become alive to the problem; and the German Government, for example, is working to disengage the German defence setup from software from Microsoft and similar firms.[1]

    In the light of this:

    • 1.What is the estimated amount of money that could be saved if just half of EU and Member State public bodies switched to open-source IT solutions costing half of what is currently paid in licences and the like to US tech giants?
    • 2.How many US-owned or -based software programmes does the Commission currently use?

    Submitted: 23.4.2025

    • [1] https://zendis.de/ressourcen/bwi-und-zendis-schliessen-rahmenvertrag-ueber-souveraene-kommunikations-und-kollaborationsloesungen
    Last updated: 20 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Selective enforcement of the rule of law: double standards – E-001886/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001886/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Afroditi Latinopoulou (PfE)

    The rule of law is a core foundation of the European Union. However, the recently established selective enforcement thereof by the European Commission raises concerns about the uniform and fair treatment of Member States. Hungary and Poland have repeatedly been at the centre of sanctions and interventions, while similar – or even more serious – issues in other Member States are not addressed with the same severity. This unequal treatment raises concerns about the way in which European mechanisms are being applied.

    In view of the above, can the Commission say:

    • 1.Considering that the Commission tolerates breaches of the rule of law in some Western governments, but at the same time imposes disproportionate sanctions on Central and Eastern European states, how does it justify its different attitudes towards different Member States?
    • 2.On the basis of what objective criteria does it decide to activate the rule of law conditionality mechanism and how does it ensure that this mechanism does not become a tool for political pressure against governments that are not aligned with the overarching political agenda of Brussels?
    • 3.What steps does it intend to take to restore its credibility as a neutral institutional guarantor, in order to ensure that there are no double standards in the enforcement of the rule of law between the Member States?

    Submitted: 12.5.2025

    Last updated: 20 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Pollution of the English Channel, North Sea and Baltic Sea – E-001255/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The threat posed by unexploded ordnance (UXO) and chemical munitions dumped in EU waters is addressed in the revised EU Maritime Security Strategy[1], which includes actions on mapping, risk assessment and cross-border cooperation. At the 2023 ‘Our Baltic’ Conference, Member States committed to mitigating UXO threats in the Baltic Sea. The Commission encourages Member States to collaborate with regional organisations, research institutes, and private entities to address this issue effectively.

    2. Currently, the EU supports three major projects: Muni-risk[2], Mine-sweeper[3] and Munimap[4] — focused on risk analysis, mapping, and technology development for UXO clearance[5]. In June 2024, the Commission launched a EUR 5.6 million pilot project[6] to develop new UXO removal technologies and enhance coordination among authorities, researchers and industry in the Baltic Sea. The lessons learnt from these projects will be transferable to all sea basins around Europe facing similar threats. In total, the EU has invested over EUR 24 million in UXO-related actions.

    3. Authorising wind farm projects is the competence of Member States and must be in full compliance with applicable EU law, including the Birds and Habitats Directives[7] and the directive on the Resilience of Critical Entities[8]. The Commission provided guidance to Member States on how to implement wind energy projects in accordance with EU nature legislation[9]. The impact on Natura 2000 sites will have to be duly assessed by Member States.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:52023JC0008.
    • [2] https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/opportunities/projects-details/43392145/101173075/EMFAF.
    • [3] https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/101167839.
    • [4] https://interreg-baltic.eu/project/munimap/.
    • [5] In addition, in June 2024, the Commission launched a EUR 5.6 million pilot project to develop new UXO removal technologies and enhance coordination among authorities, researchers and industry in the Baltic Sea.
    • [6] https://cinea.ec.europa.eu/news-events/news/new-pilot-project-call-proposals-reduce-danger-munitions-european-seas-opened-today-2024-06-25_en.
    • [7] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A01992L0043-20130701.
    • [8] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2022/2557/oj/eng.
    • [9] European Commission: Directorate-General for Environment, Guidance document on wind energy developments and EU nature legislation, Publications Office of the European Union, 2020, https://data.europa.eu/doi/10.2779/457035.
    Last updated: 20 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Tightening of import quotas for steel – E-001257/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    While the application of EU trade defence instruments is not subject to impact assessments, the Commission confirms that in conducting the latest review investigation, it did analyse the overall EU interest, including the interests of EU industries using steel as an input for their production. In this regard, the Commission also considered the specific views of the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), which came forward as interested party and submitted comments on the request of the EU steel industry. ACEA was particularly concerned about potential tightening of the safeguard measure as concerns product Category cB, which includes corrosion resistant sheets used specifically by the automotive industry.

    The outcome of the review regarding Category cB is that no adjustments are applied in this category so as not to unnecessarily restrict sourcing opportunities for the EU automotive industry. Although the EU automotive industry is affected by the change of the liberalisation rate to 0.1% starting 1 July 2025, the current quotas are nevertheless increasing compared with the current quarter.

    In conclusion, because the measure is not tightened with regard to the product indicated as a specific concern by the ACEA, the Commission does not expect the outcome of the review to result in a sharp increase of steel prices in this category, nor to result in closures of automotive plants.

    Last updated: 20 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – EU: Readiness 2030 – E-001888/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001888/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Afroditi Latinopoulou (PfE)

    The European Union is at a critical juncture in terms of its defence capacity, the security of its borders and intensifying geopolitical pressures on its eastern and southern borders.

    As a front-line Member State, Greece has repeatedly borne a disproportionate defence and deterrence burden, both against external threats and with regard to the management of illegal migration flows.

    In view of the proposal to implement the Readiness 2030 strategy, the question naturally arises whether the European Commission intends to also support countries that already respect or go beyond NATO objectives, such as Greece.

    Can the Commission therefore answer the following:

    • 1.How does it intend to balance the need for a common European defence policy with respect for Member States’ sovereignty and specific defence challenges?
    • 2.Will there be an EU co-financing mechanism for armaments programmes and defence investments, in particular for countries that already invest more than 2 % of their GDP in defence?

    Submitted: 12.5.2025

    Last updated: 20 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – The rule of law in the EU remains in peril, MEPs say

    Source: European Parliament

    Parliament’s draft assessment of the Commission’s 2024 Rule of Law Report paints a worrying picture about the state of European values.

    The report endorsed by the Committee on Civil Liberties with 50 votes in favour, 18 against, and four abstentions, takes stock of the Commission’s 2024 Rule of Law Report as well as developments across the member states. MEPs call firmer, more consistent enforcement of democratic principles by both member states and the Commission. To prevent backsliding, they ask for an “ever more comprehensive toolbox”, complemented by a “smart conditionality” mechanism to ensure that the suspension of EU funds cannot be misused against civil society and local authorities. They reiterate the call for a fully-fledged mechanism to protect and enforce EU values in their entirety, while proposing methodological improvements to the Commission’s annual exercise.

    Worrying trends and persistent issues

    Among worrying developments identified this year, MEPs point to restrictions to the right of assembly and a rapidly shrinking civic space. They underline the need for independent, effective judicial systems with highly qualified personnel, and stress the importance of assessing ongoing reforms in member states, while also condemning interference in corruption investigations and the misuse of judicial systems for political ends. MEPs call for better protection of vulnerable groups against discrimination, including EU-wide legislation criminalising hate crime and hate speech. They also highlight the obligation to uphold the international legal order and implement binding court decisions: member states need to ensure national judges’ access to the Court of Justice of the EU, apply its jurisprudence in full, and enforce the orders of the International Criminal Court.

    The report further raises:

    • the need for more robust anti-corruption efforts at all levels,;
    • a call for more transparency in interest representation, including new or improved mandatory registers and legislative footprint mechanisms;
    • threats to media freedom and pluralism, especially SLAPPs and spyware;
    • the spread of disinformation undermining democracy;
    • persistent and new threats to equality for vulnerable groups (especially discriminatory measures against LGBTIQ persons) and the Commission’s intention to withdraw the Horizontal Equal Treatment Directive;
    • the need for access to safe, legal abortion to be enshrined in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU;
    • the rise of extremism, threats to electoral processes, and the use of technology to curtail democratic rights; and
    • the deteriorating situation in Hungary.

    MEPs also call for a stronger mandate for the European Public Prosecutor’s Office and urge the Commission to apply conditionality mechanisms more readily.

    Quote

    Rapporteur Ana Catarina Mendes (S&D, Portugal) commented: “For the Union to deliver on its promise of rule of law freedom and fundamental rights for every person living in Europe, we need to strengthen our ability to monitor and act on backsliding in the rule of law and all European values. However, we see that some political forces are willing to renege on these values for short-term political gain, undermining not only the fundamental rights of vulnerable groups but also the rule of law mechanisms that protect them and support our entire societies. It is high time that we act responsibly and in line with our proudest democratic traditions, because it is becoming increasingly clear that everything is at stake.”

    Next steps

    The report is expected to be debated and voted on in the 16 – 19 June plenary session in Strasbourg, in anticipation of the upcoming 2025 Rule of Law Report by the Commission.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Emergency Department at Ennis Hospital, Ireland – E-000945/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    According to Article 168(1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union[1], a high level of human health protection shall be ensured in the definition and implementation of all Union policies and activities. Article 168(7) provides that Union action shall respect responsibilities of the Member States for the organisation and delivery of health services and medical care . The EU supplements and supports these efforts, especially by encouraging cooperation and exchange of best practices among countries. This means that the Commission has no mandate to call for a reopening of the Emergency Department as referred.

    The challenges in accessing healthcare have been reported in the Country Health Profile 2023 for Ireland under the ‘State of Health in the EU’[2]. In the context of the 2020 European Semester, a Country-Specific Recommendation was addressed to Ireland to improve accessibility of its health system and strengthen its resilience[3]. A number of EU funding programmes, such as the EU4Health Programme[4], the Recovery and Resilience Facility, and the Cohesion Policy Funds, offer significant funding opportunities, which Ireland can use to strengthen its healthcare system in response to this recommendation. For example, the Irish Recovery and Resilience Plan[5] has earmarked EUR 75 million for reforms and investments to progress on the implementation of the Sláintecare reform programme.

    The EU Health Policy Platform, which has replaced the EU health forum, is used to facilitate stakeholder engagement in EU health policies. It is a restricted Platform accessible through membership and is not designed to be used for national health system issues.

    • [1] http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:12012E/TXT&from=en.
    • [2] https://health.ec.europa.eu/document/download/20f96f89-7286-4e4f-8a2c-bea12cf97576_en?filename=2023_chp_ie_english.pdf.
    • [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex%3A52020DC0507.
    • [4] https://health.ec.europa.eu/funding/eu4health-programme-2021-2027-vision-healthier-european-union_en.
    • [5] https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/d4939-national-recovery-and-resilience-plan-2021/.
    Last updated: 20 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Ensuring availability of critical medicines and addressing shortages in ‘small markets’ – E-000902/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    On 11 March 2025, the Commission adopted a proposal for a Critical Medicines Act[1] to improve the availability of critical medicines in the EU and access to other medicines of common interest.

    The proposed Act provides a framework for Member States to request Commission support, under certain conditions, to use voluntary collaborative procurement tools for critical medicines and other medicines of common interest. Such procurements would help to make smaller markets more attractive to pharmaceutical companies, improving access and availability through economies of scale.

    In addition, the proposed Act supports investments for companies that increase EU manufacturing capacity of critical medicines through the designation of Strategic Projects. These industrial projects may benefit from facilitated access to funding and fast-tracked administrative, regulatory and scientific support.

    The proposed Act also provides measures to reduce reliance on third countries and strengthen the security and resilience of pharmaceutical supply chains through public procurement. For critical medicines, procurers would have to include a broader set of requirements in their procurement procedures. In case of high dependency on a single or a limited number of countries, they would also have to use procurement requirements that favour critical medicines production in the EU. This would also be possible for other medicines of common interest, when justified. Finally, strategic partnerships with other countries and regions would be explored to diversify the supply chains and reduce dependencies on single suppliers.

    • [1] COM(2025) 102 final. Proposal for a REGULATION OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL laying a framework for strengthening the availability and security of supply of critical medicinal products as well as the availability of, and accessibility of, medicinal products of common interest, and amending Regulation (EU) 2024/795.
    Last updated: 20 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Water infrastructure left inoperative due to delays in land consolidation and irrigation projects – E-001355/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission monitors the implementation of Greek Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) Strategic Plan (CSP)[1], amongst others through the monitoring committee meetings, annual performance reports and the annual review meetings. However, based on the principles of shared management applicable to the CAP, the project implementation monitoring process falls under the responsibility of the Member States, and, hence, the Commission does not have information on individual submitted applications.

    JASPERS cannot provide technical assistance relevant to the irrigation projects in question since JASPERS has been set up as a Cohesion Policy instrument and does not provide technical assistance in the field of agriculture. However, technical assistance support is available under the CSP. It is up to the Member States to make best use of the CSP resources allocated to technical assistance to boost the administrative readiness and speed-up the preparation of projects.

    The CSPs offer possibilities for interventions for land development and irrigation projects through the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD)[2]. The Greek CSP contains relevant investment interventions, including projects in irrigation. It finances land projects aiming primarily at increasing the efficiency of water use in agriculture, through interventions, such as reservoirs, dams, ponds etc., and the modernisation of irrigation networks. The Commission services in charge of the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF)[3] are available to examine with the Greek RRF Agency whether the irrigation network in question could benefit under the ‘Investments in the national irrigation network’ measure.

    • [1] http://www.agrotikianaptixi.gr/el/keimeno-synimmena-paa/egkrisi-tropopoiiseis.
    • [2] Regulation (EU) 2021/2115 of the European Parliament and of the Council (OJ L 435, 6.12.2021, pp. 1-186).
    • [3] https://commission.europa.eu/business-economy-euro/economic-recovery/recovery-and-resilience-facility_en.
    Last updated: 20 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Religious persecution and sectarian violence in Syria – E-001081/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Since 2011, the EU and its Member States have mobilised nearly EUR 7 billion in humanitarian aid in response to the Syrian crisis. EU humanitarian aid in Syria seeks to respond to life-saving emergencies such as health, protection, shelter, and strictly adheres to the humanitarian principles of humanity, impartiality, neutrality and independence , as outlined in the EU Treaties and the European Consensus on Humanitarian Aid[1]. The EU provides humanitarian aid to all people in need in Syria, without discrimination.

    Gravely alarmed by the violence in Syria’s coastal region, on 11 March 2025, the High Representative/Vice-President issued a statement[2] on behalf of the EU, strongly condemning the horrific crimes committed against civilians, many of which were allegedly perpetrated by armed groups supporting the security forces of the transitional authorities. The EU called for a swift, transparent and impartial investigation to be conducted to ensure perpetrators are brought to justice. It welcomed the transitional authorities’ commitments, in particular the establishment of an investigative committee. It further called on them to allow the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Syrian Arab Republic to investigate all violations. Everything must be done to prevent any such crimes from happening again.

    The EU remains attentive to the actions of the new authorities in ensuring the protection of all Syrians without any kind of discrimination and continues to call for an inclusive, peaceful, Syrian-owned and Syrian-led political transition grounded on international law and upholding the universality and indivisibility of human rights and the principles of equality and non-discrimination.

    • [1] See Joint Statement by the Council and the Representatives of the Governments of the Member States meeting within the Council, the European Parliament and the European Commission, OJ C 25, 30.1.2008, p. 1-12, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex%3A42008X0130%2801%29.
    • [2] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2025/03/11/syria-statement-by-the-high-representative-on-behalf-of-the-european-union-on-the-recent-wave-of-violence/.
    Last updated: 20 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Need for a revision of the EU enlargement process and gradual integration of Ukraine – P-001053/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The use of Qualified Majority Voting (QMV) would allow for flexibility on certain intermediate steps in the enlargement process such as the opening of clusters. The final decision on accession would still be taken by all Member States unanimously. The Commission stands ready to engage with Member States to explore ways to apply QMV to some aspects of the enlargement process.

    Gradual integration of Ukraine into the single market ahead of EU accession is a priority of the Commission[1]. In the energy sector, the Commission is working to facilitate Ukraine’s electricity market integration with the EU by spring 2027 as well as further integration in the EU gas sector. Priorities for Ukraine’s integration into the EU security and defence sector are defined in the recently adopted White Paper for European Defence — Readiness 2030[2]. In addition, the new Security Action for Europe instrument would allow the Ukrainian defence industry to participate in collaborative procurements on the same footing as EU-based industry. Gradual integration is a useful tool supporting integration of enlargement partners in the EU through alignment with the EU acquis and early participation in some EU policies and processes. Nevertheless, this approach must be coupled, where appropriate, with robust institutional safeguards to guarantee both the uniform interpretation and implementation of EU law and the capacity to address non-compliance effectively. As part of the screening process, enlargement partners can express their interest in participating in the work of EU bodies as observers. The Commission then issues recommendations to this end, as part of the screening report.

    • [1] As laid out in the new Priority Action Plan for Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area implementation (2025-2026).
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A52025JC0120.
    Last updated: 20 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Effectiveness of investigations into alleged pushbacks in Greece – E-000772/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Common Provisions Regulation[1], requires Member States to meet horizontal enabling conditions (HECs), one of which relates to the effective mechanisms for ensuring compliance with the Charter of Fundamental Rights[2]. Greece, as all Member States, must demonstrate HEC compliance at the programme’s adoption and throughout its implementation.

    • [1] Regulation (EU) 2021/1060 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 June 2021 laying down common provisions on the European Regional Development Fund, the European Social Fund Plus, the Cohesion Fund, the Just Transition Fund and the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund and financial rules for those and for the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund, the Internal Security Fund and the Instrument for Financial Support for Border Management and Visa Policy, OJ L 231, 30.6.2021, p. 159-706.
    • [2] Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, OJ C 326, 26.10.2012, p. 391-407.
    Last updated: 20 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – Press briefing on the 21 – 22 May plenary session

    Source: European Parliament

    European Parliament’s spokespersons will hold a last-minute briefing on the 21 – 22 May plenary session on Wednesday at 14.30.

    When: Wednesday 21 May at 14.30

    Where: Anna Politkovskaya press room in Brussels and via Interactio

    Key topics next week include:

    • Debate on the EU’s response to the Israeli government’s plan to seize the Gaza Strip, and how to provide effective humanitarian support and secure the hostages’ release
    • Debate and vote on simplifying the EU’s carbon leakage instrument
    • Debate on the phasing-out of Russian gas, nuclear energy and oil imports
    • Vote on imposing new tariffs on fertilisers and additional ones on other agricultural products imported from Russia and Belarus
    • Debate on the new single market strategy
    • Debate on ways to make Europe more attractive to scientists
    • Formal sitting: Address by Nataša Pirc Musar, President of the Republic of Slovenia

    Interpretation of the press briefing will be available in English and French.

    Journalists wishing to participate actively and ask questions, please connect via Interactio using this link: https://ep.interactio.eu/link/pressconfp1611820

    You can follow it live from 14.30 on Friday in Parliament’s Anna Politkovskaya press room or via Parliament’s webstreaming and EbS+.

    Information for the media – Use of Interactio to ask questions

    Interactio is only supported on iPads (with the Safari browser) and Mac/Windows (with the Google Chrome browser).

    When connecting, enter your name and the media you are representing in the first name / last name fields. For better sound quality, use headphones and a microphone. Interpretation is only possible for questions asked on video.

    Journalists who have never used Interactio before are asked to connect 30 minutes before the start of the press conference to perform a connection test. IT assistance can be provided if necessary. When connected, open the chat window (upper right corner) to be able to see the service messages.

    For more details, check the connection guidelines and recommendations for remote speakers.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Slovak Government cull of 350 brown bears – E-001897/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001897/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    César Luena (S&D)

    The Slovak Government has announced its intention to cull up to 350 brown bears, a figure equivalent to the species’ entire population in Spain. It is justifying the decision as a safety measure because human encounters with bears have been on the rise, some of them with tragic outcomes. However, the brown bear (Ursus arctos) is protected under the EU Habitats Directive, which provides for a strict ban on the hunting of that species except for in very specific circumstances.

    In view of this state of affairs:

    • 1.Does the Commission take the view that the Slovak law on which this decision is based is compatible with the provisions of articles 12 to 16 of the Habitats Directive and with the need for any derogation from strict species protection to be duly justified, to be limited and not to undermine the species’ conservation status?
    • 2.Does the Commission intend to request from the Slovak authorities a detailed report on the alternatives considered, ecological impact studies carried out and the preventive measures taken before authorising the bears’ hunting?
    • 3.If this action proves to be in breach of EU conservation rules, what legal action does the Commission intend to take?

    Submitted: 13.5.2025

    Last updated: 20 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – EUR 4.7 billion investment package for South Africa – E-001331/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU closely monitors developments in South Africa, including legislative proposals and acts adopted. This includes the Expropriation Act (Act number 13 of 2024), which was passed by the previous South African parliament and assented to by the President of the Republic of South Africa on 20 December 2024. It will enter into force on a date to be determined by the President of South Africa. The Act is currently the subject of court proceedings in South Africa.

    The EU follows the discussions that take place in relation to this Act. The EU will continue to monitor developments and, if deemed relevant, raise the issue with South Africa within relevant bilateral fora, such as those concerning political and human rights dialogue, which exist between the EU and South Africa as part of the strategic partnership.

    Under Article 8 of the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument — Global Europe Regulation[1], the EU is required to comply with and promote the principles of respect for the rule of law in all its interventions. Through Global Gateway, the EU aims to embed democratic principles, good governance, and transparency in all investments. In each country, the EU assesses whether the necessary preconditions for investment are in place, including those related to the rule of law.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex%3A32021R0947.
    Last updated: 20 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – The need to develop the steel industry in the context of developing armament programmes – E-001209/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) enables the EU to achieve its climate targets at the lowest cost by allowing the market to set the carbon price. It also has in-built features to protect industries such as steel from carbon leakage (displacement of production and emissions to outside the EU). These include free allocation of emission allowances, the possibility of state aid to compensate indirect carbon costs for electro-intensive production (such as electric arc furnaces), and the introduction of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM).

    As such, the Commission has no plans to suspend the ETS, but is preparing a comprehensive review of the ETS Directive by 31 July 2026, as required under the existing Directive.

    2. Steel overcapacity continues to grow across regions, as evidenced in the latest review of the steel safeguard measure. Tackling unfair trade remains a priority for the Commission and it is fully committed to ensuring a robust use of trade defence instruments. The Commission will continue to take all necessary measures to protect the steel industry against unfair and injurious trading practices. In addition, an increasing number of trade barriers are being erected in many third countries. Therefore, the European Steel and Metals Action Plan[1] announced that by the third quarter of 2025 at the latest, the Commission will propose a long-term measure providing a highly effective level of protection to the EU’s steel sector. It will take into account changes in EU demand as well as security and resilience considerations, while preserving a certain level of openness in the EU market. The Commission will also conduct by the end of 2025 a comprehensive review of CBAM, accompanied by an anti-circumvention strategy.

    • [1] https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/publications/european-steel-and-metals-action-plan_en.
    Last updated: 20 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Enlargement and the rule of law – E-001347/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission’s annual Enlargement package reports[1] cover the state of preparedness and progress made, including on all rule of law aspects, which are fundamental to the accession process. The reports cover all candidate countries and the potential candidate. They provide guidance to the enlargement countries on reform priorities for the year ahead.

    The inclusion of some enlargement countries in the annual Rule of law report exercise alongside Member States strengthens the EU support for rule of law reforms, supports their accession process and helps maintain a sustainable pattern of high standards after accession. The two exercises are therefore complementary.

    The Commission maintains a broader dialogue with the enlargement countries on all elements related to the fundamentals of the accession process. Preparation of the Rule of law reports for the enlargement countries is done in a coordinated manner with the services of the Commissioner for Enlargement who are also responsible for preparing the annual Enlargement package. Close coordination between the different services, together with cross-referencing assessments made in the Enlargement package reports, ensures consistency in messaging to partners.

    The upcoming Rule of law report exercise for 2025 will cover the same set of countries as in 2024. The selection is based on their state of preparations as well as progress in the formal accession process . The methodology whereby recommendations for enlargement countries are included only in the Enlargement package will be maintained.

    • [1] https://enlargement.ec.europa.eu/enlargement-policy/strategy-and-reports_en.
    Last updated: 20 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – National right-to-die laws and differences in patient treatment across Europe – E-000811/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    As the Commission pointed out in its answer to the written questions P-001801/2019[1], P-003709/2017[2], E-001443/2017[3] and E-001484/2017[4], the Commission does not have a position on the issue of assisted dying. Responsibility for healthcare, including care for terminally ill patients as well as related ethical questions, rests with the Member States.

    Therefore, the Commission has no general powers to intervene with the Member States in this area.

    • [1] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-8-2019-001801_EN.html .
    • [2] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/P-8-2017-003709_EN.html .
    • [3] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-8-2017-001443_EN.html .
    • [4] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-8-2017-001484_EN.html .
    Last updated: 20 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – EU harmonisation and scope for national bans on PFAS – E-001152/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The purpose of the regulation on the registration, evaluation, authorisation and restriction of chemicals (REACH)[1] is to ensure high level of protection of human health and the environment, as well as the free movement of substances, competitiveness and innovation. The efficient functioning of the internal market for substances can be achieved only if applicable requirements do not differ significantly between Member States. However, as confirmed by the European Free Trade Association Court in case E-9/16[2], in cases where the manufacture, placing on the market or use of a substance is not yet harmonised (i.e. no restriction) Member States may maintain or adopt national rules[3] provided the REACH restriction process is also initiated.

    To address the concerns raised by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination, some Member States have initiated national measures to restrict some uses of PFAS. While the Commission shares these concerns, it considers that such measures are more efficient if taken at EU level by the established restriction procedure supported by a solid assessment by the scientific committees of the European Chemicals Agency. This process would avoid disruption of the internal market and guarantee all EU citizens an equally high level of protection.

    A broad PFAS restriction dossier has been prepared by five national authorities. The European Chemicals Agency’s committees must finalise their opinions on this dossier before the Commission can prepare its proposal to restrict PFAS in the EU. As also confirmed in the above-mentioned Court case, after adoption of an EU restriction, Member States need to align with the harmonised legislation.

    The Commission is carefully following all measures at national level to assess their relevance for future policy development.

    • [1] Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 December 2006 concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH), establishing a European Chemicals Agency, amending Directive 1999/45/EC and repealing Council Regulation (EEC) No 793/93 and Commission Regulation (EC) No 1488/94 as well as Council Directive 76/769/EEC and Commission Directives 91/155/EEC, 93/67/EEC, 93/105/EC and 2000/21/EC, OJ L 396, 30.12.2006.
    • [2] https://eftacourt.int/download/9-16-judgment/?wpdmdl=1804 ; https://eftacourt.int/download/9-16-judgment/?wpdmdl=1804.
    • [3] Cf REACH Article 128(2).
    Last updated: 20 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Labelling and safety of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in the EU – E-000456/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    In order to ensure a high level of protection of human and animal health and the environment, the European Food Safety Authority carries out a thorough risk assessment before genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are authorised, which includes aspects related to long term safety. Following the granting of authorisations, GMOs need to be traced and labelled as such when released in the environment or placed on the EU market. Monitoring plans and renewal procedures (as all authorisations are limited in time) ensure that new information is assessed.

    Over the last two decades since GMO authorisations have been granted in the EU, no safety issues have emerged and no measures -such as withdrawal or suspension- had to be applied based on evidence of risks to human or animal health or to the environment[1]. Therefore, the Commission considers the current measures adequate in order to protect farmers and producers and ensure transparency.

    At the same time, as research evolves in this field and in order to update detection and traceability tools in line with scientific developments and innovative technologies in breeding , specific projects[2] have been funded under the Horizon Europe programme.

    • [1] http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2003/1829/oj, http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2003/1830/oj.
    • [2] Detection of NGT products to promote innovation in Europe | DETECTIVE https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/101137025 ; Transition to safe & sustainable food systems through new & innovative detection methods & digital solutions for plant-based products derived from new genomic techniques, under a co-creation approach | DARWIN https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/101136462 ; New detection methods on products derived from new genomic techniques for traceability, transparency and innovation in the food system https://cordis.europa.eu/programme/id/HORIZON_HORIZON-CL6-2023-FARM2FORK-01-11/en.
    Last updated: 20 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –