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  • MIL-OSI: Fast Wealth Under Review: The Get Dumb Money Works System Reviews Reveal Shocking Truth

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, May 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    In This Article, You’ll Discover:

    • How the Fast Wealth system and the Get Dumb Money 30-second phone ritual are marketed to generate passive income
    • A breakdown of what’s actually included inside the Fast Wealth program
    • Whether the Get Dumb Money Works System is a legitimate path to fast wealth or just another marketing gimmick
    • Pricing, refund policy, and satisfaction guarantee information (with a disclaimer to check the official website)
    • Verified user insights, red flags, and expert commentary on affiliate marketing schemes
    • How mindset, repetition, and identity-shifting are claimed to rewire financial behaviors
    • The psychology behind “dumb money” and why it’s critical for anyone serious about financial independence in 2025
    • Trusted alternative wealth-building methods that go beyond surface-level hype
    • Key buzzwords and SEO-driven analysis to help readers find the best Fast Wealth method in 2025

    TLDR Summary: Fast Wealth and the Get Dumb Money Works System

    Fast Wealth is a digital program sold through ClickBank that claims to show users how to generate quick income online using a mix of affiliate marketing and subconscious behavior hacks, including a 30-second daily ritual called the Get Dumb Money system.

    This article explores whether Fast Wealth in 2025 lives up to its promise of delivering the best method to build wealth quickly, or if it simply recycles generic concepts under a high-converting brand. The Get Dumb Money ritual is said to rely on behavioral psychology, but transparency around how it works is limited, and watchdog sources have raised red flags.

    We review the actual program content, user experiences, refund policies, and pricing structure, as well as common pitfalls like hidden upsells and vague claims. The system may attract beginners hoping for quick wins, but readers looking for real financial results will find better, more grounded options discussed throughout this article.

    This complete review provides the facts to help you decide whether the Get Dumb Money system is the right fit or just another short-term pitch that fades quickly.

    Disclaimer: Pricing and promotional details are subject to change. Always check the official website for the most accurate and current information before purchasing.

    Introduction: The Allure and Risks of Fast Wealth in 2025

    In an era where digital side hustles and AI-powered income streams dominate headlines, the idea of building fast wealth in 2025 has never been more appealing—or more confusing. With countless systems promising shortcuts to financial freedom, one platform gaining viral attention is the Fast Wealth program, paired with the Get Dumb Money Works System. It claims to offer a 30-second phone ritual that unlocks subconscious wealth pathways, helping users move from “broke by default” to a wealth-oriented mindset.

    But with bold promises come even bolder questions: Is this method truly effective? Can a mindset shift alone lead to passive income and financial breakthroughs? Or is this just another cleverly packaged affiliate marketing funnel?

    This in-depth review will explore the complete Fast Wealth ecosystem, examining what’s real, what’s risky, and what users need to know before diving in.

    Let’s find out if this is the best Fast Wealth method in 2025—or just another hyped-up shortcut that fails to deliver.

    Understanding the Fast Wealth Program

    The Fast Wealth program is marketed as a beginner-friendly solution for those seeking to make money online in 2025. At its core, the platform claims to simplify the often complex world of affiliate marketing and digital income generation. Focusing on mindset shifts and “easy-to-follow steps,” it promises to guide users through a process that allegedly delivers quick and repeatable financial results.

    What the Program Includes

    Fast Wealth offers access to a digital portal that features training videos, quick-start guides, and daily rituals. These are designed to help users align their subconscious thoughts with wealth-oriented behaviors. Much of the marketing centers around the idea that wealth creation isn’t just about tactics—it’s about reprogramming how you think and act around money.

    Although the material is light on technical depth, it attempts to cover topics such as:

    • Affiliate product promotion strategies
    • Simple funnel templates and copywriting hooks
    • The “Get Dumb Money” 30-second ritual
    • Daily repetition for subconscious habit installation

    Accessibility and Platform

    The program is distributed through ClickBank, one of the most well-known digital product marketplaces. This provides a level of payment security and support that many users value, especially when dealing with emerging personal finance products.

    Refund Policy and Pricing

    At the time of writing, the Fast Wealth program is available for a one-time fee of $39. It also comes with a 120-day money-back guarantee, promoted as no-questions-asked.

    Disclaimer: Always check the official website for the most accurate pricing and refund information. Offers and access terms may change without notice.

    What the Program Promises

    The core promise of the Fast Wealth system is speed. By following simple steps and engaging with the Get Dumb Money ritual daily, users are told they can generate results quickly, without needing prior experience, a website, or enormous startup costs. However, specifics on how the actual income is earned remain vague, and the promotional materials rely heavily on emotional appeal rather than data-backed claims.

    Discover the 30-second phone ritual claiming to rewire your wealth mindset—start your Fast Wealth journey today before this exclusive offer expires.

    Delving into the Get Dumb Money System

    The Get Dumb Money System is a central piece of the Fast Wealth platform, promoted as a breakthrough subconscious technique for rewiring the way users think about wealth. Branded as a “30-second phone ritual,” it is designed to be simple, repeatable, and instantly actionable—ideal for those looking to see fast changes without extensive learning curves or heavy workloads.

    What Is the 30-Second Ritual?

    At the heart of the system is a short audio or video sequence that users are instructed to engage with daily, typically using their phone. The ritual is framed as a tool to reprogram the subconscious mind by:

    • Interrupting old, scarcity-based thought patterns
    • Installing a new identity rooted in abundance and financial confidence
    • Replacing the default “broke mindset” with what the system calls a “Money Magnet Identity”

    It draws on popular behavioral psychology techniques such as visualization, repetition, and affirmations, though no scientific studies are cited within the material to back up the claimed financial outcomes.

    Psychological Framing: From Scarcity to Wealth Identity

    The creators suggest that most people fail financially because they’ve been unknowingly programmed to self-sabotage. The Get Dumb Money System aims to counteract this through:

    • Daily mental pattern resets
    • Anchoring thoughts of success through simple sensory triggers (like phone rituals)
    • Using repetition to create “automatic abundance behaviors”

    While this approach aligns with some foundational theories in neuroscience and self-development, the financial claims tied to it, like attracting money “effortlessly,” should be viewed cautiously.

    Disclaimer: While mindset and behavior training may offer personal benefits, there are no guarantees that this will directly result in income generation. Financial success typically requires consistent effort, strategic planning, and a mix of proven actions.

    Why It Appeals

    The system’s simplicity is its strongest selling point. With no technical skills required and no lengthy modules to absorb, it attracts those who feel overwhelmed by more complex business models. It also heavily appeals to emotional pain points, like frustration with debt or feeling stuck financially.

    However, the lack of transparency about how it connects to actual revenue generation (e.g., affiliate links, ad monetization, digital sales) limits its credibility when evaluated strictly as a wealth-building method.

    Evaluating the Legitimacy

    While the Get Dumb Money System and the broader Fast Wealth program are marketed with confidence and urgency, it’s crucial to examine their legitimacy through a more objective lens. Many systems in the “make money online” category walk a fine line between motivation and manipulation, and this one is no exception.

    Common Red Flags

    Several warning signs have been raised by users, watchdog reviewers, and independent analysts:

    • Vague implementation steps – Much of the material relies on emotional framing rather than practical, step-by-step strategies.
    • Generic content – Some users report that the advice inside mirrors free content already available through YouTube or public affiliate training forums.
    • Hidden upsells—Although the entry price is low, there are suggestions that additional costs or offers are presented after purchase.
    • Lack of transparency—The system does not have a visible team behind it, and many of the testimonials provided are not independently verified.

    Trust Ratings and External Reviews

    Online security and scam-detection platforms have flagged the FastWealth.io and GetDumbMoney.com websites with low trust ratings. This doesn’t automatically confirm a scam, but it does indicate a lack of verifiable reputation, which is especially concerning in the financial advice space.

    For instance:

    • Scam Detector rates FastWealth.io poorly, citing domain anonymity and promotional vagueness.
    • MalwareTips and Infoquu both note patterns that match standard high-risk digital product funnels, such as exaggerated claims, refund overuse, and unsourced testimonials.
    • The language used throughout promotional materials also mirrors known psychological manipulation techniques, often seen in short-term marketing scams.

    What Does This Mean for Serious Users?

    Those seeking legitimate financial transformation should proceed with caution. While the system may provide motivational value or encourage personal reflection, it does not offer a documented path to income. The real risk lies in confusing “mindset enhancement” with reliable financial models.

    The absence of precise business mechanics, such as affiliate commission structures, marketing funnels, or asset-building frameworks, makes it challenging to categorize Fast Wealth as a genuine wealth-building tool.

    Disclaimer: Individuals should conduct their research and consider multiple sources of information before investing in any income-generating system. Transparency, documented success stories, and verified user support are key indicators of a program’s credibility.

    Ready to ditch the broke mindset? Activate your “Money Magnet Identity” now with the Get Dumb Money ritual. Fast Wealth access just one click away.

    User Experiences and Reviews

    User feedback offers some of the most revealing insights into the real-world impact of the Fast Wealth program and the Get Dumb Money System. In a mix of public reviews, blog analyses, and discussion forums, user experiences tend to be polarized, ranging from motivated praise to deep skepticism.

    Positive Impressions

    Some early adopters express appreciation for the mindset-shifting elements. These users highlight:

    • A sense of empowerment after engaging with the 30-second ritual daily
    • Motivation to take action on personal goals and financial planning
    • Appreciation for the simplicity of the system, especially for those overwhelmed by traditional business courses

    In these cases, it seems the Get Dumb Money System serves as a daily motivator or personal development tool—less of a business method and more of a confidence-building exercise.

    Common Criticisms

    However, many users and reviewers raise recurring concerns:

    • Lack of actionable strategies – The system often stops short of providing detailed monetization paths.
    • Recycled concepts – Much of the advice is general and widely available for free in self-help and affiliate marketing spaces.
    • Overreliance on emotional triggers – Critics point to how the sales material leverages fear, shame, or urgency rather than focusing on practical skills.
    • Unexpected upsells or vague guarantees – While a refund is promised, some users claim that the process isn’t as seamless as advertised.

    Expert Commentary

    Financial experts tend to view the Get Dumb Money System with caution. Without concrete business frameworks or evidence-based strategies, it falls into the category of motivational marketing, not financial education. Professionals emphasize that sustainable income is built through structured models involving time, effort, and strategy, not just mindset rituals.

    Some finance bloggers label the system as a psychological placebo—something that might feel helpful in the short term but lacks the tools for long-term transformation unless paired with real-world income action steps.

    Disclaimer: Personal experiences may vary widely depending on expectations and background. While some may benefit from motivational elements, this program should not be mistaken for a proven business model or substitute for proper financial planning.

    The Psychology Behind “Dumb Money”

    To understand the full pitch behind the Get Dumb Money System, it’s essential to break down the psychology of the term “dumb money.” While the phrase may sound dismissive, it actually refers to a well-documented concept in behavioral finance, often used to describe the emotional decision-making patterns of retail investors or untrained participants in the financial system.

    What Is Dumb Money?

    In financial markets, “dumb money” typically refers to capital invested by individuals who lack institutional insights, real-time data, or technical analysis experience. These investors often:

    • Buy high due to hype or fear of missing out (FOMO)
    • Sell low during market dips driven by panic.
    • Follow viral trends without a long-term strategy.
    • Rely on surface-level promises rather than fundamentals.

    The Fast Wealth program leverages this concept by suggesting most people are programmed to operate from a “broke by default” mindset. The Get Dumb Money System claims to rewire this mental default using subconscious rituals and repetition.

    Smart Money vs. Dumb Money Behavior

    Whereas “dumb money” follows emotions, “smart money” behaves based on:

    • Long-term planning and portfolio diversity
    • Data-backed investment models
    • Consistent financial education
    • Strategic patience, even during downturns

    By labeling the old mindset as “dumb money,” the system aims to position its users as future “smart money thinkers”—though it does this without providing direct education on investing, markets, or budgeting.

    Why This Framing Works

    Psychologically, this narrative is highly compelling for marketing purposes. It:

    • Creates a clear “us vs. them” identity
    • Encourages people to believe their struggles are due to subconscious conditioning
    • Offers a daily ritual as an easy fix for a complex, deeply rooted issue

    While this can inspire change on a surface level, it’s important to distinguish between mindset work and actual financial tools or knowledge.

    Disclaimer: Reprogramming mental habits can support personal growth, but it should be paired with financial education and proven wealth strategies for meaningful, lasting outcomes.

    Transform your financial future in 30 seconds a day. Start the Get Dumb Money System now—risk-free with a 120-day satisfaction guarantee!

    They say mindset is everything—find out if it’s true. Try the Fast Wealth 30-second ritual today and unlock the first step toward smarter money habits.

    Alternatives to Consider

    While the Fast Wealth program and the Get Dumb Money ritual may offer motivational value, those serious about achieving long-term financial results should explore alternative approaches. These alternatives are grounded in transparency, practical action, and well-established principles in personal finance.

    Legitimate Wealth-Building Strategies

    There are proven paths to financial growth that don’t rely on hype, secrecy, or vague subconscious reprogramming. Some of the most effective strategies include:

    Financial Education

    Learning the basics of budgeting, investing, debt management, and passive income creation remains one of the most reliable ways to build wealth. Many free or low-cost resources exist that offer:

    • Step-by-step guides on affiliate marketing
    • Training on building high-converting websites and funnels
    • Education on digital product creation, freelancing, and real estate
    • Courses on financial literacy, trading, and portfolio diversification

    Diversified Income Streams

    Real wealth often comes from multiple, sustainable income sources rather than a single system. Examples include:

    • Affiliate marketing is built on niche content websites or YouTube channels
    • Print-on-demand or drop-shipping businesses with real customer value
    • Creating and selling digital products (e-books, templates, online courses)
    • Long-term investing through index funds, ETFs, or dividend-yielding stocks

    Long-Term Planning

    A key contrast to “get rich quick” platforms is the emphasis on patience and strategy. Individuals serious about wealth accumulation in 2025 should consider:

    • Setting realistic financial goals over a 12–36 month period
    • Tracking expenses, income, and performance over time
    • Reinvesting profits back into scalable systems (ad spend, automation tools, etc.)
    • Consulting certified financial advisors for major decisions

    Trusted Platforms and Tools

    Instead of relying on one-size-fits-all solutions, users can explore platforms that are widely reviewed and offer community support, transparent pricing, and educational infrastructure. These include:

    • Udemy, Coursera, and Skillshare for learning monetizable skills
    • Shopify and Gumroad for launching online stores or products
    • ConvertKit or Systeme.io for email marketing and digital sales automation
    • Personal finance apps like YNAB or Mint for budgeting and goal tracking

    Disclaimer: No single platform or tool guarantees success. Results depend on the time, energy, and strategic thinking each individual brings to the process. Any new system or investment should be researched thoroughly and aligned with your personal goals.

    Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    The Fast Wealth program and the Get Dumb Money Works System offer fast financial results through mindset shifts, daily rituals, and simple steps anyone can follow. For beginners overwhelmed by more technical wealth-building paths, the idea of a 30-second phone ritual unlocking a new financial identity may feel empowering and approachable.

    However, beneath the polished marketing and motivational messaging, there are critical gaps. The program lacks transparency, provides a limited actionable strategy, and relies heavily on emotional appeal. While mindset plays a role in long-term success, it must be supported by concrete actions, skill-building, and a realistic understanding of how income is actually generated.

    Many users will find that the system functions more as a motivational tool than a proven income vehicle. Suppose you’re looking to achieve fast wealth in 2025, truly. In that case, it’s crucial to balance inspiration with education and prioritize platforms and tools with a clear track record of delivering real-world results.

    Those serious about transforming their financial life should use discernment, dig deeper than surface-level promises, and commit to models that combine mindset with measurable strategy.

    Disclaimer: This review is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Always consult a qualified professional when making decisions related to income, investing, or business development. Pricing, guarantees, and program details are subject to change—please verify all information with the official website before making a purchase.

    Rewire your subconscious for success—Get Dumb Money claims it only takes 30 seconds. Test it today and claim your full Fast Wealth program access.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    What is the Fast Wealth program?

    The Fast Wealth program is a digital system sold through ClickBank that claims to help users generate quick income online using simple affiliate marketing techniques and subconscious mindset shifts. It is often paired with the Get Dumb Money Works System, which includes a daily 30-second phone ritual.

    Does the Get Dumb Money 30-second ritual actually work?

    The system promotes the idea that daily repetition of mindset rituals can rewire subconscious habits related to money. While some users report feeling more motivated, there is no scientific evidence that this method alone leads to measurable financial success. It may be helpful as a personal development tool, but results can vary widely.

    Is the Fast Wealth system a scam?

    The Fast Wealth system is not officially labeled a scam, but it does raise several red flags, including vague strategies, recycled content, and low trust ratings on third-party review sites. Caution is advised, and users should conduct due diligence before purchasing.

    How much does the Fast Wealth program cost?

    As of the time of writing, the Fast Wealth system is listed for a one-time payment of $39. It also claims to offer a 120-day refund policy through ClickBank.

    Disclaimer: Always check the official website for the latest pricing and refund details. Pricing and promotions may change at any time.

    Can you really get rich quickly using this system?

    Quick wealth is rarely realistic without a combination of experience, resources, and risk. While motivational tools like this may help users take action, actual income usually comes from well-established models such as affiliate marketing, digital product creation, and long-term investing.

    Are there better alternatives to the Fast Wealth system?

    Yes. Platforms that offer transparent training, community support, and proven results, such as affiliate courses, business mentorships, and income-generating tools, deliver more consistent value. Diversifying income and investing in education are more reliable long-term strategies.

    Bonus: Top 5 Legitimate Strategies for Building Fast Wealth in 2025

    While the Fast Wealth program and the Get Dumb Money System have garnered attention, it’s essential to explore proven methods for wealth accumulation. Here are five strategies that individuals serious about financial growth in 2025 might consider:

    1. Affiliate Marketing with Reputable Programs

    Engaging in affiliate marketing through established platforms can be a reliable income stream. By promoting products or services and earning commissions on sales, individuals can build passive income over time. It’s crucial to choose programs with transparent terms and proven track records.

    2. Investing in Dividend-Paying Stocks

    Building a diversified portfolio that includes dividend-paying stocks can provide regular income and potential capital appreciation. This long-term strategy requires research and, often, consultation with financial advisors to align investments with personal financial goals.

    3. Creating and Selling Digital Products

    Developing digital products such as e-books, online courses, or software tools allows individuals to leverage their expertise and generate income. Platforms like Teachable or Gumroad facilitate the distribution and sale of such products to a global audience.

    4. Real Estate Crowdfunding

    Participating in real estate crowdfunding platforms enables investors to contribute to property ventures with relatively low capital. This approach can offer exposure to real estate markets without the responsibilities of direct property management.

    5. Developing a Niche Blog or YouTube Channel

    Creating content around a specific niche can attract a dedicated audience. Monetization avenues include advertising revenue, sponsored content, and merchandise sales. Consistency and quality content are key to building and maintaining an engaged following.

    Disclaimer: The strategies mentioned above involve varying degrees of risk and require due diligence. It’s advisable to consult with financial professionals before making investment decisions. Always ensure that any platform or opportunity is thoroughly researched and aligns with your financial objectives.

    Take the first step toward fast financial confidence. Start your risk-free trial of Fast Wealth and try the Get Dumb Money ritual now.

    • Contact: Fast Wealth
    • Email: support@fastwealth.io

    Disclaimer

    Legal Disclaimer and Affiliate Disclosure

    The content provided in this article is for informational and educational purposes only. It should not be construed as financial advice, investment guidance, medical counsel, or any other form of regulated professional service. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information presented, no guarantees are made regarding the completeness, accuracy, timeliness, or applicability of any information herein.

    This article may contain references to third-party products, services, or systems, including but not limited to digital wealth-building platforms and mindset training programs. Any product or service mentioned should be evaluated independently by the reader, and individuals are encouraged to conduct their research and consult qualified professionals before making any financial, business, or personal decisions.

    The publisher of this article may receive compensation through affiliate partnerships with vendors mentioned within the content. This means that if a reader clicks on a link and makes a purchase, a commission may be earned at no additional cost to the reader. Such relationships do not influence the content, opinions, or recommendations provided. All views expressed in this article are based on publicly available information, user reviews, and independent editorial analysis.

    Neither the publisher nor any syndication partners shall be held responsible for any loss, damages, or other consequences arising directly or indirectly from the use of any product, service, or strategy mentioned in this publication. Readers acknowledge that results may vary and that no outcome can be guaranteed.

    All trademarks, logos, brand names, and product images are the property of their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. This article is not sponsored by or affiliated with any of the brands mentioned unless explicitly stated otherwise.

    Any pricing, refund policies, or promotional offers discussed in this article are subject to change without notice. For the most accurate and up-to-date details, readers should refer to the official websites of the respective product or service providers.

    This content may be syndicated across partner websites and distribution channels for broader visibility. Syndication partners assume no liability for the accuracy, opinions, or claims made within this article.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Airbus announces launch customer for its new In Flight Entertainment experience

    Source: Airbus

    Headline: Airbus announces launch customer for its new In Flight Entertainment experience

    Airbus Corporate Jets (ACJ) and Alpha Star Aviation have signed a Letter Of Agreement at Dubai air show for the new and unique In-Flight Entertainment (IFE) technology – “The ACJ Smart LiFi Monitor” in presence of Abdulnaser Al Kheraif CEO, and Ibrahim Al Yaheyan VP-Tech, Alpha Star Aviation and Benoit Defforge, ACJ President.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Nigerian Ibom Air purchases ten Airbus A220 aircraft

    Source: Airbus

    Headline: Nigerian Ibom Air purchases ten Airbus A220 aircraft

    Akwa Ibom state government owned airline in Nigeria, Ibom Air has signed a firm order for ten (10) A220s at the Dubai Airshow. The signing was done by Mfon Udom, the chief Executive Officer of Ibom Air, and Christian Scherer, Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Airbus International in the presence of the Akwa Ibom state Governor, Mr. Udom Gabriel Emmanuel.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI China: Smart steps for futuristic education

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

    China calls for cultivating future-ready teachers, classrooms, schools and learning centers to meet the demands of the digital age, according to a white paper released during the 2025 World Digital Education Conference in Wuhan, Hubei province, which concluded on Friday.

    The White Paper on China’s Smart Education, issued by the Ministry of Education, declared 2025 the inaugural year of “smart education”, outlining a sweeping vision for transforming the country’s education system through artificial intelligence.

    Artificial intelligence is fundamentally reshaping how knowledge is delivered, how students learn, and how education systems are governed, setting a new trajectory for educational reform, it said.

    “AI will give teachers new roles and missions,” it said. Educators will be supported by intelligent tools that automate lesson planning and provide tailored instructional materials, easing administrative burdens and allowing more time for creative teaching.

    It will also assist in grading and analyzing homework, helping teachers track student progress and offer personalized services. Meanwhile, AI-driven multimodal data systems will evaluate teaching effectiveness, offering targeted recommendations to help instructors continuously improve teaching.

    According to the white paper, classrooms can be reimagined in the future, where teachers, students and intelligent machines work seamlessly together. Emerging technologies such as big data, virtual simulations and immersive environments will become central to instruction, fostering greater student engagement and knowledge construction.

    Smart schools of the future will use AI across every level of management from resource planning to personalized student evaluation. By analyzing labor market demands, AI can help align regional school programs with economic needs. It can also predict demographic changes to ensure the precise allocation of education resources, the white paper said.

    AI-powered tools will offer assessments of well-rounded student development, shifting the focus from rote learning to holistic growth, it added.

    In addition, student-centered future learning centers will integrate multimodal technologies to nurture core competencies. These centers will emphasize interdisciplinary and industry-based learning, powered by digital platforms that connect MOOCs, virtual labs and smart textbooks, it said.

    Personalized learning will be supported through precise recommendations based on AI profiling and big data analytics, aiming to help individuals adapt and thrive in the AI-driven world.

    Apart from technological infrastructure, the white paper highlighted a fundamental shift in educational values and content. Future education is expected to nurture students’ critical thinking, moral integrity and psychological resilience, it said.

    Cognitive skills, including innovation and systems thinking, and collaborative problem-solving will become core capabilities for students in the future, the white paper said. It also urges the responsible use of AI in education, calling for ethical guidelines and data privacy protections to prevent misuse.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Gathering held in Beijing to commend role models with disabilities, their outstanding supporters

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

    A gathering to commend role models with disabilities and people who have made outstanding contributions in helping those with disabilities is held in Beijing, capital of China, May 16, 2025. A total of 200 role models with disabilities, along with 200 outstanding units and 60 exceptional individuals supporting disability services, were honored at the gathering. (Xinhua/Gao Jie)

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Russia, Ukraine agree on large-scale POW swap, further talks in Istanbul

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

    Delegations of Russia and Ukraine start their meeting in Istanbul, Türkiye, May 16, 2025. (Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Türkiye/Handout via Xinhua)

    Delegations of Russia and Ukraine concluded their meeting in Türkiye’s Istanbul on Friday, agreeing to hold a new round of negotiations and have a large-scale prisoner exchange.

    As a key outcome of the two-hour talks, Russia and Ukraine agreed to a prisoner exchange involving 1,000 people from each side.

    According to Russian diplomatic sources, Presidential Aide Vladimir Medinsky said the swap would take place soon. He also expressed overall satisfaction with the meeting and confirmed that Russia is ready to continue the dialogue.

    Medinsky noted that both sides will soon present their detailed views on a possible ceasefire, after which the negotiations will move forward.

    He also said that Ukraine proposed direct talks between the two presidents, and that Russia “took note” of the request.

    The convoy arrives at the Dolmabahce Presidential Office for meeting in Istanbul, Türkiye, May 16, 2025. Delegations from the United States, Ukraine and Türkiye convened at the Dolmabahce Presidential Office here on Friday for the first trilateral meeting ahead of the Russia-Ukraine peace talks. Following the trilateral meeting, a separate session will be held between delegations from Russia, Ukraine and Türkiye. (Xinhua/Liu Lei)

    Meanwhile, Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, quoted by the state-run Anadolu Agency, said both sides focused on three key topics: a ceasefire, the prisoner exchange, and the possibility of a future presidential summit.

    Umerov described the agreement on the prisoner swap as “the largest exchange since the beginning of the war.”

    In a post on X, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, who chaired the negotiation, noted that the meeting produced several important outcomes aimed at building trust and laying the foundation for future negotiations.

    He said Russia and Ukraine agreed to “share with the other side in writing the conditions that would make it possible to reach a ceasefire,” and reached an agreement “to meet again in principle.”

    “As Türkiye, we will continue to make every effort to enable a lasting peace between Russia and Ukraine,” he said.

    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky speaks at a press conference at the Ukrainian Embassy in Ankara, Türkiye, May 15, 2025.  Zelensky said on Thursday that he would not personally show up at the negotiating table in Istanbul with a commitment to ending the conflict with Russia. (Mustafa Kaya/Handout via Xinhua)

    The Istanbul talks follow a proposal by Putin on Sunday to resume direct negotiations with Ukraine. Zelensky has previously said he is open to a face-to-face meeting with Putin. However, the Kremlin said Putin would not attend the talks.

    The last direct talks between Ukraine and Russia took place in Istanbul in March 2022, where the two sides failed to agree to halt the fighting.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Moody’s Ratings cuts US credit rating citing budgetary burden

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

    Photo taken on July 29, 2024 shows the U.S. Treasury Building in Washington, D.C., the United States. (Xinhua/Hu Yousong)

    Moody’s Ratings on Friday slashed U.S. long-term issuer and senior unsecured ratings to Aa1 from Aaa citing rising government debt and interest payment ratios.

    Meanwhile, Moody’s Ratings changed the outlook of U.S. sovereign rating from negative to stable.

    “This one-notch downgrade on our 21-notch rating scale reflects the increase over more than a decade in government debt and interest payment ratios to levels that are significantly higher than similarly rated sovereigns,” said a release by Moody’s Ratings.

    Moody’s Ratings changed the outlook of U.S. sovereign rating from stable to negative in November 2023.

    “Successive U.S. administrations and Congress have failed to agree on measures to reverse the trend of large annual fiscal deficits and growing interest costs,” the release said.

    “We do not believe that material multi-year reductions in mandatory spending and deficits will result from current fiscal proposals under consideration. Over the next decade, we expect larger deficits as entitlement spending rises while government revenue remains broadly flat,” it said.

    In turn, persistent, large fiscal deficits will drive the government’s debt and interest burden higher, said Moody’s Ratings.

    Pedestrians walk past the National Debt Clock in New York, the United States, on June 1, 2023. (Xinhua/Li Rui)

    U.S. fiscal performance is likely to deteriorate relative to its own past and compared to other highly-rated sovereigns, according to the credit rating agency.

    The downgrade on Friday means the United States has lost its last triple-A credit rating from a major ratings firm following cuts by Fitch Ratings in 2023 and S&P Global Ratings in 2011.

    Moody’s Ratings also forecasted a bleak outlook for the outlook of U.S. debt burden and fiscal conditions in the coming decade.

    Without adjustments to taxation and spending, the United States is expected to continue to have limited budget flexibility, with mandatory spending, including interest expense, to rise to around 78 percent of total spending by 2035 from about 73 percent in 2024.

    If the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is extended, it will add around 4 trillion U.S. dollars to the federal fiscal primary (excluding interest payments) deficit over the next decade, according to Moody’s Ratings.

    Moody’s Ratings anticipated that U.S. federal debt burden would rise to about 134 percent of GDP by 2035, compared to 98 percent in 2024.

    Despite high demand for U.S. Treasury assets, higher Treasury yields since 2021 have contributed to a decline in debt affordability, warned Moody’s Ratings.

    Federal interest payments are likely to absorb around 30 percent of revenue by 2035, up from about 18 percent in 2024 and 9 percent in 2021, said Moody’s Ratings.

    “Moody’s downgrade of the United States’ credit rating should be a wake-up call to Trump and Congressional Republicans to end their reckless pursuit of their deficit-busting tax giveaway,” U.S. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer said in a statement on Friday.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 2025 China-South Asia Forum on Poverty Reduction and Development Cooperation held in Sri Lanka

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

    The 2025 China-South Asia Forum on Poverty Reduction and Development Cooperation was held in Colombo, capital of Sri Lanka, on Thursday, to promote cooperation on poverty alleviation and spark collaborative projects tailored to local needs.

    In his speech, Gamagedara Dissanayake, Sri Lanka’s deputy minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, said China’s success in gaining economic value from cultural heritage is a valuable experience for Sri Lanka.

    He added that despite notable successes in public health, education, and infrastructure development over the decades, Sri Lanka still grapples with persistent pockets of poverty in rural districts and among low-income urban communities.

    Dissanayake expressed the hope that this forum would serve as a platform to foster the exchange of knowledge, identify specific areas for collaboration, and build stronger networks that will contribute to poverty reduction and sustainable development.

    That spirit of practical cooperation was echoed by Du Zhanyuan, president of China International Communications Group (CICG), who noted that poverty eradication is not only a national goal but also a global challenge and a common mission for mankind.

    China and South Asian nations have been continuing to deepen cooperation in various areas, significantly contributing to the promotion of economic development and the improvement of people’s livelihood, Du said.

    Chinese ambassador to Sri Lanka, Qi Zhenhong, outlined his country’s structural efforts to support developing nations in their fight against poverty.

    Qi noted that China has channeled support to developing countries through mechanisms such as the China-United Nations Peace and Development Fund and the South-South Cooperation Assistance Fund. China has also promoted cooperation under frameworks such as the East Asia poverty reduction cooperation initiative and the China-Africa cooperation program for poverty reduction and people’s livelihood improvement.

    The forum, themed “Enhancing Regional Cooperation for South Asia’s Development,” brought together policymakers, diplomats, scholars, and development specialists from China, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and beyond.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Internet majors see accelerated growth

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

    Chinese internet heavyweights have returned to a rapid upward trajectory fueled by the continuously improved business environment and the application of rapidly evolving artificial intelligence technology, as they posted the fastest quarterly revenue growth in core businesses.

    Experts said the robust financial performance demonstrates the immense potential and resilience of Chinese platform enterprises, which have played a pivotal role in expanding domestic demand and boosting consumption, stabilizing employment and driving economic growth.

    Alibaba Group said on Thursday that its revenue stood at 236.45 billion yuan ($32.8 billion) during the January-March period, up 7 percent year-on-year, while its net income reached 29.85 billion yuan, rising 22 percent year-on-year.

    Notably, revenue from its cloud computing business logged the highest growth level in three years, surging 18 percent year-on-year to 30.13 billion yuan, with AI-related product revenue achieving triple-digit growth for the seventh consecutive quarter.

    Wu Yongming, CEO of Alibaba Group, said that looking ahead, the company will remain focused on its core businesses and continue to drive AI and cloud businesses as a new engine for its long-term growth.

    The company has announced that it will invest more than 380 billion yuan in building cloud and AI hardware infrastructure in the next three years. The investment figure exceeds Alibaba’s total cloud and AI spending over the past decade, highlighting its focus on an AI-driven growth strategy.

    JD posted better-than-expected financial results, with its revenue reaching 301.1 billion yuan in the first quarter, an increase of 15.8 percent year-on-year. This represents the highest year-on-year growth rate for the company in nearly three years.

    Xu Ran, CEO of JD, said that its earnings were boosted by improving consumer sentiment and continued enhancements to JD’s supply chain capabilities and user experience. The company aims to capture the emerging market opportunities driven by consumption support policies and the rise of AI large language models.

    Jiang Han, a senior analyst at market consultancy Pangoal, said that Chinese platform companies, which mainly leverage digital platforms to provide services such as e-commerce, payment, short videos and games, have effectively stimulated domestic demand and consumption by providing products and services online for consumers.

    “They have created a large number of jobs, including logistics and distribution, customer services and software development, and played a critical role in bolstering technological innovation, especially in AI, which will be conducive to enhancing production efficiency and bolstering industrial upgrading,” Jiang said.

    He noted that their strong performance in earnings results reflects China’s continued efforts to promote the healthy and well-regulated development of the platform economy by creating a favorable business environment and removing market barriers, while significantly boosting their vitality and confidence. Meanwhile, these companies’ increased investments in cutting-edge technologies, such as AI, have already yielded substantial returns.

    Tencent Holdings said that its revenue rose 13 percent year-on-year to 180 billion yuan in the first quarter, its largest quarterly income since listing in Hong Kong in 2004, driven by continued efforts in AI and video gaming.

    NetEase reported a 7.4 percent year-on-year increase in total revenue, beating market expectations, as the company continues to innovate with AI-driven enhancements in gaming experiences and educational services.

    Zhu Keli, founding director of the China Institute of New Economy, said that the platform economy has become the core engine driving China’s economic transformation and upgrading, with its resilience reflected in the highly efficient matching ability between supply and demand.

    Highlighting platform companies’ significant role in fostering new growth drivers, Zhu called for efforts to encourage enterprises to beef up investment in state-of-the-art technologies and forward-looking fields that better empower the real economy.

    China’s tech and internet sector has garnered revamped interest from investors since the appearance of the AI large language model DeepSeek in January. Leading internet companies have invested large sums of money into a new race to develop and integrate the most cutting-edge AI applications.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Foreign orders on the up in Guangdong

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

    Chinese foreign trade companies are picking up steam in fulfilling orders after China and the United States announced on Monday that they had reached an agreement to reduce tariffs on each other during trade talks in Geneva, Switzerland.

    The influx of orders from the US has posed a challenge to the production and supply capabilities of foreign trade enterprises, business executives said.

    Wang Li, general manager of a home furniture company in Shenzhen, Guangdong province, said that her company secured four new orders on Tuesday alone, worth a total value of $300,000, which is close to the total order value of the previous two weeks.

    “We have planned to send at least eight containers to the US within the week,” Wang said, adding that she predicts that orders will continue to surge in the following three months.

    Zhang Wulin, general manager of a digital technology company in Dongguan, Guangdong, said he has seen a rapid rebound in US orders following the tariff reductions.

    “All our sales representatives are now busy with shipping and have no time to count the order volume,” he said.

    Yan Longhai, secretary-general of the Guangzhou Cross-Border E-commerce Industry Association, said that based on the association’s customer feedback, orders secured in May have increased by 20 to 40 percent compared with the same period last month.

    “Due to the tariff reduction, the orders that were originally suspended will gradually resume,” he said.

    Chen Yongjun, a distinguished professor at Guangdong University of Finance and Economics, noted that the US remains one of the major trade partners of China. China’s exports to the US represented 14.7 percent of the country’s total in 2024, lower than the 19.2 percent recorded in 2018.

    Official data showed that Guangdong, as China’s largest foreign trade province, sold 948.81 billion yuan ($131.65 billion) worth of products to the US last year, with the proportion of exports to the US having fallen to 16.1 percent.

    The tariff reductions would help promote trade expansion between the two nations, said Chen. He urged domestic manufacturers to further improve product competitiveness and diversify their global market presence while increasing their presence in the US market.

    In Shanghai, Ding Linfeng, general manager of a local sunshade equipment company, said that a US customer had placed an order on Monday evening.

    Ding said the US customer was in a hurry to place a new order and hoped that production would be completed within a month, as maritime transportation of goods still takes another month.

    Ding said that he received orders worth more than 1 million yuan from the US on the night of the tariff reductions.

    Lin Xiaoming, general manager of Yiwu Lincy Lock Industry Co based in Yiwu, Zhejiang province, said that the company has continued to fulfill the contracts previously signed with its US clients following the tariff reductions, as now the tariff is much lower, which results in very high profits for them. “Therefore, they also continue to adhere to the previous contracts,” said Lin, whose company produces locks and exports more than 50,000 locks per day.

    “This year, our trade volume with other countries has been consistently increasing. The tariff interruptions have actually helped other countries gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Chinese market,” he said.

    The surge in orders from the rest of the world has also promoted the growth of the shipping and logistics industries.

    A Shenzhen-based international logistics company’s US route business is experiencing growth, with prices continuing to rise, but container shipments remain tight, said a local shipping executive.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Klobuchar, Smith Visit Command Center in Northeastern Minnesota and Survey Wildfire Damage ?

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn)
    TWO HARBORS, MINN. – Governor Tim Walz, and U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN) visited the Incident Command Center in Two Harbors, Minnesota to receive a briefing from officials battling the wildfires and to survey fire damage.
    “We heard directly about the incredible emergency response effort that is underway to contain these wildfires that spread so quickly.  I’m grateful to the firefighters, National Guard, Forest Service and local officials who are working tirelessly to fight these fires and keep people safe, ” said Sen. Amy Klobuchar. “I stand ready to support all efforts to make sure emergency responders  receive the resources they need to do their work so affected areas can start to rebuild.”
    “My heart is with the Minnesotans who have been forced to evacuate their homes and the communities facing these devastating wildfires. I’m grateful to the firefighters, emergency personnel, Minnesota National Guard, U.S. Forest Service, DNR, and local volunteers who are putting themselves on the line to protect lives and land,” said Sen. Tina Smith. “Being here today allowed us to speak directly with those coordinating the response so we can ensure they have the support and resources they need. In the face of loss and uncertainty, Minnesotans always show up for one another, and I know we’ll get through this together.”
    Walz, Klobuchar, and Smith were briefed on the Brimson Complex (made up of the Camp House and Jenkins Creek fires) and the Munger Shaw fires by Incident Commander Brian Jenkins with the Eastern Area Incident Management Team and other emergency response leaders and local officials. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hagerty, Gillibrand Statement on GENIUS Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty
    NASHVILLE, TN—Today, Sens. Bill Hagerty (R-TN) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) released the following statements on the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U.S. Stablecoins (GENIUS) Act, a historic piece of legislation that establishes a clear regulatory framework for payment stablecoins.
    “Next week, the Senate will make history when we debate and pass the GENIUS Act that establishes the first ever pro-growth regulatory framework for payment stablecoins,” said Senator Hagerty. “This bill will cement US dollar dominance, protect customers, increase demand for US treasuries, and ensure that innovation in the digital asset space is in the hands of the United States of America, not our adversaries.”
    “Stablecoins are already playing an important role in the global economy, and it is essential that the U.S. enact legislation that protects consumers, while also enabling responsible innovations,” said Senator Gillibrand. “The bipartisan GENIUS Act will provide regulatory clarity to this important industry, keep innovation on shore, add robust consumer protection, and reaffirm the dominance of the U.S. dollar. The crafting of this bill has been a true bipartisan effort and I’m optimistic we can pass it in the coming days.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: PHOTOS: Amid Federal Funding Cuts & Uncertainty, Senator Peters Visits MSU Biomedical Research Institute to Highlight Importance of Federal Support for Solving Today’s Pressing Healthcare Challenges

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters
    EAST LANSING, MI – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) visited Michigan State University (MSU) to tour the Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering (IQ) and highlight the importance of federal funding for solving the most pressing challenges in healthcare. During the tour, MSU faculty and students demonstrated the innovative research and technologies made possible by grants from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and National Science Foundation (NSF), including cancer-sniffing insects, cardiac organoid models and wearable monitoring systems.  
    Peters was joined by Dr. Christopher Contag, Director of the Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, and Dr. Jinxing Li, Assistant Professor of the Department of Biomedical Engineering. During a press conference following the tour, Peters underscored the challenges that research institutions like MSU currently face amid federal funding cuts and uncertainty, which are impacting IQ’s ability to continue developing cutting-edge research that keeps Michiganders safe and healthy.  
    “As we saw firsthand today, the students and faculty at Michigan State University are developing cutting-edge health care solutions that will transform the way we can care for our patients and keep Michiganders healthy. However, recent executive orders made by the current administration have either stalled or completely terminated the federal funding that research institutions like MSU rely on to carry out this important work,” said Senator Peters. “These cuts are a big mistake. That’s why I made it a priority to come to MSU today to highlight how federal investments in research and innovation are effective and invaluable to our society.” 
    “At IQ, our biomedical research drives bold innovation — from “first-ever discovery” to “first-in-human” application. We’re not just focused on uncovering new biology, technologies, and therapeutic approaches; we’re committed to translating these breakthroughs into real-world impact,” said Dr. Christopher Contag. “I’d like to thank Senator Peters for coming here today to learn more about our mission, which is to lead at the frontier of discovery and be the first to bring those innovations to patients. With vital support from federal funding, we turn transformative ideas into solutions that can improve and save lives.”  
    “Earlier this year, I was thrilled to learn from a representative of Senator Peters’ office that my research project was set to receive funding from the National Institutes of Health,” said Dr. Jinxing Li. “However, the project has been delayed and is awaiting final funding authorization. Without a reliable funding timeline, we were unable to begin planning or recruiting the talented scientists needed to carry out this critical work. This experience underscores how timely and consistent federal support is essential to sustaining innovation, and we are grateful to Senator Peters for his continued advocacy for science, innovation, and the future of healthcare.”
    To download photos from Peters’ event at MSU, click here.
    MSU’s Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering (IQ) integrates a variety of researchers across scientistic disciplines to solves some of today’s most pressing issues in healthcare including cancer research, studying heart defects, and delivering therapies to treat muscular disfunction, all of which are supported by NIH and NSF grant funding. Peters, a graduate of MSU, has remained committed to the continued renewal of these grants and ensuring researchers at MSU and across Michigan have access to this funding. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, Peters secured over $50 billion in the government funding bill that was signed into law last year for the NIH to support biomedical research and support institutions like the IQ Lab.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Trail runner rescued from the Overland Track in Cradle Mountain National Park

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Trail runner rescued from the Overland Track in Cradle Mountain National Park

    Saturday, 17 May 2025 – 12:02 pm.

    A female trail runner has been rescued after becoming lost on the Overland Track in Cradle Mountain National Park last night.
    Search and Rescue was called to coordinate rescue of the woman from Overland Track after the woman called emergency authorities on her mobile.
    Police and a Tasmania Parks and Wildlife ranger located the woman around 8pm last night, seeking shelter overnight at the Waterfall Hut.
    The woman was then walked out to safety a short time ago,
    Police advise bushwalkers against walking alone, and to ensure they carry sufficient warm clothing and food, and emergency communication devices. A two-way messaging emergency device is preferred.• Ensure you’re prepared with appropriate equipment – take a map and torch, clothing and footwear to suit any conditions, regardless of the season take a waterproof jacket; adequate food and water, first aid kit.• Research your intended trip – ensure the trip is within your abilities and fitness level, and you have a route plan, map and check the expected weather forecast.• Let someone know before you go – ensure someone knows your route and expected return time.• Always carry a fully charged mobile phone and consider a portable charger to extend battery life. Batteries do not last as long when cold and mobile navigation apps deplete batteries quicker than other apps.• Carry a Personal Locator Beacon but be aware that they are a one-way communication device.• Be flexible. Be prepared to turn back or change plans if severe weather is forecast or eventuates during the walk. Making the decision to push on when you should turn back can put you in danger.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: A life of service: celebrating the career of Luamanuvao Dame Winnie Laban

    SPECIAL REPORT: By Moera Tuilaepa-Taylor, RNZ Pacific manager

    At this year’s May graduation ceremony, Te Herenga Waka Victoria University’s Luamanuvao Dame Winnie Laban, was awarded an honorary doctorate in recognition for her contribution to education.

    Although she has now stepped down from the role, Luamanuvao served as the university’s Assistant Vice-Chancellor, Pasifika, for 14 years. In that time has worked tirelessly to raise Pasifika students’ achievement.

    “It’s really important that they [Pasifika students] make the most of the opportunities that education has to offer,” she said.

    “Secondly, education teaches you how to write, to research, to critique, but more importantly, become an informed voice and considering what’s happening in society now with AI and also technology and social media, it’s really important that we can tell our stories and share our values, and we counter that by receiving a good education and applying ourselves to do well.”

    When asked about the importance of service, Luamanuvao explained “there’s a saying in Samoan, ‘o le ala i le pule o le tautua’ so the road to authority and leadership is through service”.

    “And we’ve always been taught how important it is not to indulge in our own individual success, but to always become a voice and support our brothers and sisters, and our families and in our communities who are especially struggling.”

    Juliana Faataualofa Lafaialii, Samoa’s Deputy Head of Mission/Counsellor to NZ (from left); Philippa Toleafoa; Luamanuvao Dame Winnie Laban; Afamasaga Faamatalaupu Toleafoa, Samoa’s High Commissioner to NZ; and Labour MP Pesetatamalelagi Barbara Edmonds . Image: Pesetatamalelagi Barbara Edmonds/RNZ Pacific

    As she accepted her honorary doctorate, she spoke about the importance of women taking on leadership roles.

    ‘Our powerful women’
    “Yes, many Pacific people will know how powerful our women are, especially our mothers, our grandmothers, and great grandmothers. We actually come from cultures of very powerful and very strong women . . .  it’s not centered in the individual women. It’s centered on the well-being of our families, and our communities. And that’s what women leadership is all about in the Pacific.”

    She did not expect the honourary doctorate from Te Herenga Waka Victoria University because “I’ve always been aspirational for others. And we Pacific people have been brought up that we are the people of the ‘we’ and not the me.”

    The number of Pasifika students enrolled at the University, during Luamanuvao’s time as Assistant Vice-Chancellor, increased from 4.70 percent in 2010 to 6.64 pecent in 2024. She said she “would have loved to have doubled that number” so that it was more in line with the number of Pasifika people living in New Zealand.

    Luamanuvao Dame Winnie Laban and supporters during an International Women’s day event in Wellington. Image: RNZ Pacific

    Two of the initiatives she started, during her time at the University, was the Pasifika Roadshow taking information about university life out to the wider community and the Improving Pasifika Legal Education Project.

    Helping Pasifika Law students succeed was very important to her. While Pasifika make up make up only 3 percent of Lawyers, they are overrepresented in the legal system, comprising 12 percent of the prison population.

    Another passion of hers was encouraging Pasifika to enter academia. “I think we’ve had an increase in Pacific academics in some areas. For example, with the Faculty of Law, we’ve got two senior Pacific women in lecturer positions . . . We’ve also got four associate professors, and now I’ve finished, there’s also a vacancy for another.”

    Prior to her work in education Luamanuvao was the first Pasifika woman to enter New Zealand politics, in 1999.

    First Pacific woman MP
    “I was fortunate that when I ran for Parliament, I ran first as a list MP, and as you know, within the parties, they have selection process that are quite robust, and so I became the first Pacific woman MP.”

    “What motivated me was the car parts factory that closed in Wainuiomata, and most of the workers were men, but they were also Pacific, Māori and palagi, who basically arrived at work one morning and were told the factory was closing.”

    “But what really hit me, and hurt me, that these were not the values of Aotearoa. They’re not the values of our Pacific region. These are human beings, and for many men, particularly, to have a job, it’s about providing for your family. It’s about status.

    “So, if factories were going to close down, where was the planning to upskill them so they could continue in employment? None of them wanted to go for the unemployment benefit.

    “They wanted to continue in paid work. So it’s those milestones that I make it worthwhile. It’s just a pity, because election cycles are three years, and as you know, people will vote how they want to vote, and if there’s a change, all the hard work you’ve put in gets reversed and but fundamentally, I believe that New Zealand and Pacific people have wonderful values that all of us try to live by, and that will continue to feed the light and ensure that people have a choice.”

    Luamanuvao Dame Winnie Laban PhD and her husband Dr Peter Swain. Image: Trudy Logologo/RNZ Pacific

    Although she first entered Parliament as a list MP, she subsequently won the Mana electorate seat. She retained the seat ,for the Labour party, from 2002 until she stepped away from politics in 2010.

    During that time she was Minister of Pacific Peoples, 2007-2008, and even though Labour was defeated in the 2008 election, she continued to hold the Mana seat by a comfortable margin.

    Mentoring many MPs
    Although she has left political life, Luamanuvao has also been involved in mentoring many Pasifika Members of Parliament, and helping them cope with the challenges and opportunities that go with the role.

    One of the primary motivators in her life has been the struggles of her parents, who left Samoa in 1954 to build a better future for their children, in New Zealand. She acknowledged that all of her successes can be attributed to her parents and the sacrifices they made.

    “Yes, well, I think everybody can look at a genealogy of history of families leaving their homeland to come to Aotearoa, why, to build a better life and opportunities, including education for their children.

    “And I often remind our generation of young people now that your parents left their home, for you. And I’ve often reflected because my parents have passed away on the pain of leaving their parents, but there was always this loving generosity in that both my parents were the eldest of huge families.

    “They left everything for them, and actually arrived in New Zealand with very little. But there was this determination to succeed.

    “Secondly, they are a minority in a country where they’re not the majority, or they are the indigenous people of their country. So also, overcoming those barriers, their hard work, their dreams, but more importantly, the huge love for our communities and fairness and justice was installed in Ken and I my brother, from a very young age, about serving and about giving and about reciprocity.”

    Although she has left her role in tertiary education Luamanuvao vows to continue working to support the next generation of Pasifika leaders, in New Zealand and around the Pacific region.

    Her lifelong commitment to service, continues as she’s a founding member of The Fale Malae Trust, a group whose vision is to build an internationally significant, landmark Fale Malae on the Wellington waterfront.

    This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Saipan Soldiers Excel in the Guam National Guard

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    CHALAN PAGO, Guam (May 9, 2025) — The rhythm of sledgehammers and a chorus of power tools make the Guam Guard’s 1224th Engineer Support Company easy to find. They are out in town this morning, removing subfloors, rerouting electrical circuits, and sealing windows at Safe Haven, a resource center for new and expecting mothers in need.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Coast Guard, partners locate Lucky Harvest west of Guam

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    SANTA RITA, Guam — The U.S. Coast Guard, with support from U.S. Navy and local partners, located the 47-foot vessel Lucky Harvest, carrying two mariners, which had been missing since departing Alamagan Island, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, on May 12, 2025, en route to Saipan.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Coast Guard rescues 3 boaters off Fort De Soto

    Source: United States Coast Guard

    U.S. Coast Guard sent this bulletin at 05/16/2025 10:00 PM EDT

     

    05/16/2025 09:34 PM EDT

    CLEARWATER, Fla. — A Coast Guard Station St. Petersburg boat crew rescued three boaters, Friday, after their 29-foot boat capsized approximately six miles west of Bunces Pass.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SCHUMER – WITH HUDSON VALLEY RELIGIOUS LEADERS, FARMERS AND FOOD BANKS- SAYS GOP JUST VOTED TO RIP AWAY NEARLY $300 BILLION FROM AMERICA’S LARGEST ANTI-HUNGER PROGRAM, AND THAT COULD LEAD TO THOUSANDS…

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer
    Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York Serves 170,000 In Hudson Valley Every Month And Already Nearly 1 Million Pounds Of Food Has Been Canceled Due To Trump’s Cruel USDA Cuts – And This Week The GOP Voted To Take ~$300 Billion From SNAP To Fund Trump’s Tax Breaks For Corporations & Billionaires, Which Will Lead To Families With Kids As Young As 7 Getting Kicked Off The Program
    Schumer, With Church Leaders & Advocates, Say Double Whammy Will Hurtle Hudson Valley To A Hunger Crisis, Impacting 200,000+ In Orange, Rockland, Westchester And Across Region, Millions Nationwide; Senator With Those On Frontline Of Getting Food To The Needy Demands GOP Block Cruel Cut To SNAP And Protect Anti-Hunger Programs
    Schumer: No Child Should Go To Bed Hungry. This Is Not A Partisan Issue; This Is A Moral Issue
    After House Republicans voted for the largest cut to the anti-hunger program SNAP in American history, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer stood with Hudson Valley religious leaders, food banks, and farmers to demand action against the devastating $300 billion SNAP to fund Trump’s tax cuts for corporations & billionaires, that would leave thousands of seniors, families, and children hungry. The senator joined with church leaders and hunger advocates to emphasize how this is a moral issue that we should all unite to stop, and demanded that NY House Republicans stand against stealing from SNAP, which over 200,000 in the Hudson Valley rely on for food.
    “No child should ever go to bed hungry. But Trump’s slashing of anti-hunger programs at the USDA has already cancelled nearly a million pounds of food for the Hudson Valley Food Bank in Montgomery and Feeding Westchester. Now, House Republicans are trying to make the largest cut to SNAP in history which could hurtle Hudson Valley families to a hunger crisis,” said Senator Schumer. “Stealing from SNAP to pay for Trump’s tax breaks for corporations & billionaires is as backwards as it gets, and will result in thousands of kids, seniors, and families going hungry. Instead of feeding the hungry, they are feeding corporate greed.”
    Schumer added, “This is not a partisan issue, it is a moral issue. That is why I am here to show what these cuts mean for our local churches and food banks on the frontlines of fighting against hunger. It only takes a few NY House Republicans to join us to stop this cruel cut to SNAP. We need NY Republicans to protect these programs and block this bill, otherwise it will be families here in the Hudson Valley that go hungry.”
    Schumer explained how Trump’s USDA has already cruelly canceled $1 billion in food assistance, hurting the Regional Food Bank of the Hudson Valley, and if these SNAP cuts move forward it would be a double whammy, hurtling us to a hunger crisis. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a lifeline for nearly 3 million NY seniors, veterans and families who rely on the critical funding to purchase groceries. Schumer said that we should be investing more not less in anti-hunger programs, but under the Republican proposal, the average family would be reduced to just $5.00 per day per person. A breakdown of SNAP recipients in the Hudson Valley from the Center for American Progress can be found below:

    County

    SNAP Recipients

    % of County on SNAP

    SNAP Retailers

    Dutchess

    4,559

    6%

    168

    Orange

    40,035

    9.8%

    273

    Putnam

    3,487

    2.5%

    33

    Rockland

    43,843

    12.9%

    159

    Sullivan

    13,347

    16.7%

    121

    Ulster

    18,039

    9.9%

    154

    Westchester

    77,237

    7.8%

    567

    TOTAL

    200,547

     

    1,475

    Earlier this week, House Republicans advanced a bill that would rip $300 billion away from SNAP. This proposal would impact Hudson Valley residents in many ways, including the addition of a work requirement which would raise the age to access SNAP benefits from age 55 to age 64 and only exempt SNAP recipients from work requirements if they have someone younger than 7 years old in their household, down from the current exemption for all families with children under 18 years old.
    Schumer said, “I’m all for reducing any waste or fraud to make the program more efficient, but rushing to pass these massive damaging cuts with no plan while they slash our food banks is a recipe for disaster. Republicans a tying themselves in knots trying to justify these massive cuts. I ask my Republican friends this: which category does a hungry 7 year old fall under: are they waste? Are they fraud? Or are they abuse?”
    Schumer explained the Republican proposal to cut $300 billion from SNAP would inevitably mean costs of feeding families shift to states, who simply do not have the capacity to absorb this massive increase in expenses, risking families going hungry. Under this Republican proposal, states would be required to pay 5 – 25% of their state’s SNAP benefits based on the state’s error rate. According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities (CBPP), mandating New York State to cover even a modest share of SNAP benefits would shift astronomical costs to the state, with even just 5% increasing New York State’s costs by nearly $3.5 billion from FY2026 to FY2034. The senator said it is impossible to cut this much from federal SNAP funding without ripping food away from hungry children, seniors, veterans, people with disabilities, and more.
    These agonizing decisions would be amplified even further at the local level, with non-profits, many of whom have already had their funding cut, unable to fill in the gap. Counties could even be forced to shoulder the burden of increased costs in SNAP, using more local dollars to provide coverage because less federal funding will be coming in. During recessions or economic downturns, these impacts will be even more acute, as more people apply for benefits and state revenue declines, more children, seniors, veterans, people with disabilities, and more will be turned away from this vital program due to insufficient federal funding.
    According to CBPP, 13,000 people in NY-18 reside in households with adults ages 18-64 with school-age children and are at risk of losing some SNAP benefits under this Republican proposal. 8,000 people in NY-17 reside in households with adults ages 18-64 with school-age children and are at risk of losing some SNAP benefits if the current proposal becomes law, according to CBPP.
    The proposed SNAP cuts would be a blow to Hudson Valley food banks which have already been hit hard by Trump’s funding freezes and canceled payments. Earlier this year, the USDA canceled $1 billion in food assistance for organizations to purchase locally grown food. USDA programs provide food banks, schools, and other organizations with federal support to purchase local food products from NY farms.
    Trump’s USDA cuts have already hit the Hudson Valley hard. According to the Albany Times Union, the Regional Food Bank of the Hudson Valley said it will deliver 2 million fewer meals to people in need. The Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York, which covers 23 counties including the Hudson Valley, has already had 27 tractor-trailers of food canceled, which is nearly 1 million pounds meant to feed Capital Region families. That’s nearly 800,000 meals, and the food bank expects to lose over 200 tractor-trailers over the next year. According to the Journal News, the food bank’s Hudson Valley branch in Montgomery serves approximately 170,000 people every month across the Hudson Valley counties it serves. Due to a predicted drop in food through USDA programs, the food bank expects to distribute 2 million fewer meals. In addition, this past week, it was reported by News12 that Feeding Westchester has had a million pounds of food shipments canceled due to existing federal cuts. These cuts are exacerbating food insecurity and forcing food banks to rely on donations instead of a steady supply of resources from area producers.
    Schumer said these proposed cuts will limit food banks’ ability to keep shelves stocked as more people have been forced to rely on food banks to feed their families. Food bank workers and religious leaders across Upstate New York are concerned about the impact of potential cuts to SNAP on the people they serve, and farmers are worried there will be nowhere to sell their food if SNAP funding levels drop.
    “No matter which way you slice it, this Congressional Republican plan will screw Hudson Valley families, food banks and farmers from farm to table. We need everyone to stand up to these cuts that would take away food from our neighbors in need,” added Schumer.
    “My thanks to Senator Schumer for highlighting this critical issue. Cutting funding to food assistance programs as New York–and many other states–face an affordability crisis is truly odious public policy. These cuts would be particularly painful after funding for schools and food banks has already been brutally slashed. Those funding shortfalls affect not only school children and families in need, but the New York farmers and producers who supply food through federal programs. These cuts–and those pending–threaten the livelihood and safety of many New Yorkers, and I’m horrified that this administration has deemed funding corporate giveaways more important than feeding hungry Americans,” said New York State Senator James Skoufis.
    “To date, we’ve lost 1 million pounds due to USDA cuts – the equivalent of 750,000 meals – with an expected 6 million more slated to be cut by the end of 2025,” said Felicia Kalan, the Regional Food Bank’s Executive Vice President, Hudson Valley. “With neighbors already facing difficult decisions between paying for housing, medical care, or food, further cuts could devastate families, children, and seniors served by the Regional Food Bank’s network of partner agencies and programs. The meal gap is growing across the country, and all across New York, and the Regional Food Bank is fully committed to addressing this challenge.”
    “SNAP is our nation’s most powerful tool in the fight against hunger,” said Karen C. Erren, President & CEO of Feeding Westchester. “For every meal the Feeding America network of 200 food banks provides, SNAP delivers nine. With grocery prices already out of reach for too many of our neighbors and the rising cost of food and health care, now is not the time to scale back essential programs. Cuts to SNAP would be devastating for the millions of families, seniors, veterans, and children who rely on this vital support to make ends meet. Neighbors in our community are doing everything in their power to put food on the table – but they need a strong foundation to succeed. Access to food and health care is that foundation. Now is the time to come together to preserve and strengthen SNAP.”
    “As Mayor of the City of Newburgh, I cannot stand by while Republicans in Washington play politics with fundamental human needs. The House’s proposal to slash $300 billion in SNAP benefits – and President Trump’s relentless assault on the social safety net – are not just policy choices; they are moral failures. These devastating cuts to SNAP would rip food from the mouths of children, seniors, and working families in Newburgh, all to bankroll tax breaks for the wealthy. These unconscionable cuts will deepen inequality when we should be building a nation where no one is forced to choose between rent and their next meal,” said Newburgh Mayor Torrance Harvey.
    Proposed rollbacks to the country’s most widely utilized nutrition assistance program would strain budgets for Hudson Valley families. Schumer said decimating funding for SNAP right as costs at grocery stores across the country are skyrocketing will hit the Hudson Valley hard. According to the New York State Community Action Association, 12% of people in Orange County live in poverty, including more than 18% of children. According to No Kid Hungry, over half of New Yorkers reported going into debt in the past year due to rising food costs, with over 60% of families with children. Tariffs
    SNAP not only supplements families’ food budgets, it has also generated great economic benefits for New York State and NY-18 specifically. According to the National Grocers Association, grocery stores across New York State sold over $2.1 billion in groceries to people using SNAP benefits, including $99.7 million in NY-18. This created more than 18,500 New York jobs in the grocery industry, including 890 in NY-18, and generated more than $820.8 million in grocery industry wages, including $39.4 million in NY-18.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Leads Colleagues in Demanding Trump Lifts Hold on High-Speed Internet Funding for Nevada

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) led 11 of her colleagues in a letter demanding that the Trump Administration release funding for states under the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program. This program connects families in the hardest-to-serve communities to high-speed internet and works to close the digital divide. Senator Rosen helped create the BEAD program, as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and she secured $416 million for Nevada. The state has been approved to receive the funding since January 2025, but the Trump Administration’s pause on this critical program is indefinitely delaying Nevada’s ability to connect Nevadans to high-speed internet.
    The letter was signed by Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Mark Warner (D-VA), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Gary Peters (D-MI), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and Angus King (I-ME).
    “We write with concern regarding the National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s (NTIA) recent announcement that it is delaying the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program,” wrote the Senators. “This unprecedented move by the NTIA will further delay our communities from having the connectivity they need to grow and thrive. To unlock the full strength of the U.S. economy, every community must have access to the vast opportunities enabled by broadband, and this can be achieved by your Administration following the law as outlined in the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (P.L. 117-58).”
    “Currently, there are multiple states ready for broadband providers to put shovels in the ground tomorrow,” they continued. “NTIA must act swiftly to release BEAD funding to states that have already been approved and expeditiously work to approve the remaining eligible applications. Time is of the essence, and our rural and tribal communities cannot afford more delays.”
    The full letter can be found HERE.
    Senator Rosen has been a strong advocate for expanding high-speed internet access in Nevada. Through her efforts, she has secured $550 million in federal funding through various programs and legislation for the High Speed Nevada Initiative, including the Middle Mile Infrastructure Grant Program she created. Senator Rosen helped write the broadband section of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, securing $65 billion in overall investments to make high-speed internet affordable for Americans. She also successfully pushed the Federal Communications Commission to update its deeply flawed National Broadband Map and ensure Nevada receives its fair share of BEAD funding.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Blumenthal Demand Transparency From Avelo Airlines About Deportation Flights

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Padilla, Blumenthal Demand Transparency From Avelo Airlines About Deportation Flights

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Immigration Subcommittee, and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) raised serious concerns to Avelo Airlines CEO Andrew Levy about the airline’s contract with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to fly domestic and international deportation flights, even as the Trump Administration is unlawfully removing immigrants without due process.

    “Given the Trump Administration’s mission to indiscriminately deport our nation’s immigrants — without due process, in violation of the Constitution and federal immigration law, and, in some cases, in defiance of court orders — it is deeply disturbing that Avelo has determined that its partnership with ICE is ‘too valuable not to pursue,’” wrote the Senators.

    “The Trump Administration has used airline contractors to carry out hasty deportations without judicial review,” continued the Senators. “President Trump has even suggested deporting U.S. citizens convicted of certain unspecified crimes to be imprisoned abroad — a suggestion that is blatantly unconstitutional. By partnering with ICE, Avelo risks being complicit with the Administration’s illegal actions.”

    Avelo Airlines entered into a long-term contract with ICE on April 7 and flew its first deportation flight for ICE on May 12, despite the Trump Administration’s reckless deportations and repeated ignoring of due process. The Senators specifically criticized the Administration’s deportations of Venezuelan immigrants to El Salvador, refusing to return people to the United States despite a federal judge’s orders. They cited the erroneous deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a father who was living legally in Maryland with his family until the Trump Administration wrongfully deported him without due process to a maximum-security prison in El Salvador.

    Senator Padilla is a leading voice in Congress opposing President Trump’s mass deportation agenda and anti-immigrant actions and rhetoric. Earlier this week, he joined immigration advocates and his House colleagues to speak out against the extreme anti-immigrant provisions in Republicans’ reconciliation bill and to call on Congressional Republicans to reject harmful policies targeting immigrant communities. Last month, Padilla, Senator Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Representative Jamie Raskin (D-Md.-08), and Representative Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.-07) issued a joint statement condemning the Supreme Court’s decision to lift a hold on removals under the Alien Enemies Act of 1798, and he joined 14 lawmakers in condemning President Trump’s unlawful invocation of the antiquated law.

    Senator Padilla has strongly pushed back against wrongful deportations to El Salvador. Last month, he joined 24 Senators in urging Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and ICE leadership to return Kilmar Abrego Garcia. Padilla also joined Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) and Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.) to meet with Abrego Garcia’s family and wife, Jennifer Vasquez Sura, to discuss the ongoing effort to secure his immediate release. Padilla promised to keep fighting for Abrego Garcia so he can be reunited with his family. Last year, Padilla emphasized the dangers and immense economic costs of the Trump Administration’s mass deportation plans during a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing.

    Full text of the letter is available here and below:

    Dear Mr. Levy,

    On April 7, 2025, it was reported that Avelo Airlines entered into a long-term contract with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to fly domestic and international deportation flights and had begun recruiting flight attendants to serve on those flights. On May 12, 2025, Avelo reportedly flew its first deportation flight for ICE. Given the Trump Administration’s mission to indiscriminately deport our nation’s immigrants—without due process, in violation of the Constitution and federal immigration law, and, in some cases, in defiance of court orders—it is deeply disturbing that Avelo has determined that its partnership with ICE is “too valuable not to pursue.”

    The Trump Administration has used airline contractors to carry out hasty deportations without judicial review. The Administration used an ICE contractor to fly Venezuelan immigrants to El Salvador, persisting with the flights even though a federal judge ordered the planes returned to the United States. That judge has found probable cause to hold the government in contempt for violating his order, noting that the planes touched down in Honduras after the judge issued his order for their return and remained in Honduras for several hours before proceeding to El Salvador. The Administration’s hastiness has caused further error and harm. The Administration deported Kilmar Abrego Garcia, despite a court order that prohibited his removal to El Salvador. The Supreme Court unanimously held that the government must facilitate Mr. Garcia’s “release from custody in El Salvador;” yet, the Trump Administration refuses to do so. President Trump has even suggested deporting U.S. citizens convicted of certain unspecified crimes to be imprisoned abroad—a suggestion that is blatantly unconstitutional. By partnering with ICE, Avelo risks being complicit with the Administration’s illegal actions.

    Avelo is also reportedly closing its base at Charles M. Schulz-Sonoma County Airport and ending certain West Coast routes to accommodate its new contract with ICE. The growth of Avelo’s commercial flight service has been subsidized by the State of Connecticut, which has granted Avelo an exemption from aviation fuel taxes and a guarantee against losses of up to $2 million. Avelo’s apparent decision to shrink its commercial service to accommodate its ICE contract is a betrayal of Connecticut’s support and of Avelo’s customers.

    On April 8, 2025, Connecticut Attorney General William Tong sent you a letter asking for more information on your agreement with ICE. You refused to provide a copy of your contract with ICE, and your response, in which you state that Avelo is committed to “the rule of law,” indicates that you fail to grasp the scope of the Trump Administration’s illegal actions. As Senators from Connecticut and California—states in which Avelo is based—and in furtherance of our oversight responsibilities as members of the Senate Judiciary Committee as well as your stated value of “being open, honest, and transparent,” we write to seek information on your partnership with ICE. Please provide your responses to the following questions by May 30, 2025:

    1. Do you have policies and procedures in place to confirm the immigration status of individuals you are deporting?

    2. If you become aware that an individual aboard your deportation flight cannot or should not be removed from the country, do you have policies and procedures in place for addressing this situation?

    a. If so, please provide copies of those policies and procedures.

    3. If you become aware that an individual aboard your deportation flight is protected by a court order preventing their removal or that they have other lawful status (such as asylum, cancellation of removal, and withholding of removal), will you refuse to fly the individual out of the country?

    a. If the government nevertheless directs you to fly the individual out of the country, will you comply with the government’s instruction or the court’s order?

    b. If you become aware that an individual aboard your deportation flight is protected by a temporary restraining order or preliminary injunction preventing their removal, and the government nevertheless directs you to fly the individual out of the country, will you inform the judge that issued the order of the government’s actions?

    4. If you become aware that an individual aboard your deportation flight is a U.S. citizen, will you refuse to fly the individual out of the country?

    a. If the government nevertheless instructs you to fly the individual out of the country, will you comply with the government’s instruction?

    5. What changes have been made or will be made to existing or planned commercial service as a result of this contract?

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 271

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL1

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 271
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    835 PM CDT Fri May 16 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Middle and Eastern Tennessee
    Far Southwest Virginia

    * Effective this Friday night and Saturday morning from 835 PM
    until 300 AM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A few tornadoes likely with a couple intense tornadoes possible
    Scattered damaging winds likely with isolated significant gusts
    to 75 mph possible
    Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 2
    inches in diameter possible

    SUMMARY…Both supercells and a line of thunderstorms should pose a
    threat for a few tornadoes this evening and overnight as they spread
    east-southeastward. A strong tornado remains possible, especially
    with any supercell that can be maintained ahead of the line.
    Scattered severe/damaging winds appear likely, with peak gusts
    potentially reaching up to 60-75 mph. Occasional large hail may also
    occur.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 40 statute miles
    north and south of a line from 80 miles west southwest of Nashville
    TN to 45 miles east northeast of Knoxville TN. For a complete
    depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update
    (WOUS64 KWNS WOU1).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
    tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
    area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
    threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
    and possible warnings.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 265…WW 267…WW
    268…WW 269…WW 270…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 2 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 65 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
    storm motion vector 28035.

    …Gleason

    SEL1

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 271
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    835 PM CDT Fri May 16 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Middle and Eastern Tennessee
    Far Southwest Virginia

    * Effective this Friday night and Saturday morning from 835 PM
    until 300 AM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A few tornadoes likely with a couple intense tornadoes possible
    Scattered damaging winds likely with isolated significant gusts
    to 75 mph possible
    Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 2
    inches in diameter possible

    SUMMARY…Both supercells and a line of thunderstorms should pose a
    threat for a few tornadoes this evening and overnight as they spread
    east-southeastward. A strong tornado remains possible, especially
    with any supercell that can be maintained ahead of the line.
    Scattered severe/damaging winds appear likely, with peak gusts
    potentially reaching up to 60-75 mph. Occasional large hail may also
    occur.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 40 statute miles
    north and south of a line from 80 miles west southwest of Nashville
    TN to 45 miles east northeast of Knoxville TN. For a complete
    depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update
    (WOUS64 KWNS WOU1).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
    tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
    area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
    threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
    and possible warnings.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 265…WW 267…WW
    268…WW 269…WW 270…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 2 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 65 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
    storm motion vector 28035.

    …Gleason

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW1
    WW 271 TORNADO TN VA 170135Z – 170800Z
    AXIS..40 STATUTE MILES NORTH AND SOUTH OF LINE..
    80WSW BNA/NASHVILLE TN/ – 45ENE TYS/KNOXVILLE TN/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 35NM N/S /64NNW MSL – 32ENE VXV/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..2 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..65 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 28035.

    LAT…LON 36258800 36658326 35498326 35098800

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU1.

    Watch 271 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Mod (60%)

    Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes

    Mod (40%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    High (70%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Mod (40%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Mod (40%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Mod (30%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (90%)

    For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China-aided overpass to improve mobility in Mauritanian capital

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

    NOUAKCHOTT, May 16 — Sino-Mauritanian Friendship Overpass, a China-aided project, will significantly ease traffic congestion in Nouakchott, the capital of Mauritania, improve mobility for residents, and provide long-term impetus for Mauritania’s economic growth, a senior official has said.

    Minister of Equipment and Transport Ely Ould El Veirik made the remarks at the completion ceremony for the project held on Thursday in Nouakchott.

    More than 400 people attended the event, including Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Cheikh Ghazouani and Chinese Ambassador to Mauritania Tang Zhongdong, who jointly cut the ribbon.

    El Veirik expressed gratitude to the Chinese government and people for their support for Mauritania’s infrastructure development, noting that the overpass, a valuable gift marking the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries, vividly embodies their profound friendship and shared commitment to development.

    The Chinese ambassador said the overpass is a flagship project of China’s aid to Mauritania, which will strongly enhance both “hard connectivity” in infrastructure and “people-to-people connectivity” between the two countries.

    China is willing to work closely with Mauritania to deepen the strategic partnership, using the overpass as a bridge of friendship to open a new chapter of mutual benefit and cooperation, and carry forward the enduring friendship between China and Mauritania for generations to come, Tang said.

    Located along the N2 road in Nouakchott, the Sino-Mauritanian Friendship Overpass was built by China Road and Bridge Corporation to China’s first-class highway bridge standards. The 274.08-meter-long structure features a dual four-lane design and a design speed of 60 kilometers per hour.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Smart irrigation helps farmers fight extreme weather

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

    May is a crucial month for winter wheat filling, but a severe drought has gripped central China’s Henan Province. In Qixian County, smart irrigation is helping farmers fight extreme weather. A large sprinkler on rails moves slowly, spraying water, fertilizer and pesticides at once. A rotating sprinkler with corner arms reaches every edge of the wheat fields. Fine droplets fall evenly on wheat during its grain-filling stage. These smart systems aim to protect crops and ensure a strong harvest. Henan province is one of the major grain production areas in China, which produces one fourth of the country’s wheat output.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cotton to Patel: Review All FBI Actions by James Comey

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas Tom Cotton
    Cotton to Patel: Review All FBI Actions by James Comey
    Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today sent a letter to FBI Director Kash Patel, asking for a review of all FBI actions in which James Comey was personally involved in as FBI Director. This request comes after Comey’s recent social media post threatening President Trump. 
    In part, Senator Cotton wrote:
    “While I have long questioned Mr. Comey’s motive behind various decisions, his social media post threatening President Trump calls into question every FBI action Comey carried out during his tenure as director.”Full text of the letter may be found here and below.
    The Honorable Kashyap PatelDirectorFederal Bureau of Investigation935 Pennsylvania Avenue, NWWashington, DC 20535Dear Director Patel:
    I write requesting a review of all Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) actions in which former Director James Comey was personally involved. While I have long questioned Mr. Comey’s motive behind various decisions, his social media post threatening President Trump calls into question every FBI action Comey carried out during his tenure as director.
    As you are aware, Mr. Comey recently posted a photo on social media of seashells arranged on a beach that formed the numbers “8647”. Mr. Comey admitted that although he thought this was a political statement, he did not intend to call for violence. But in the words of President Trump, “he knew exactly what it meant.”
    I commend the Secret Service for investigating this threat and appreciate the support the FBI has offered. Mr. Comey has politicized investigations, been at the center of leaks, and obviously shown bias against the Trump administration and supporters. I urge you to review all FBI actions directed by Mr. Comey from September 4, 2013, until May 9, 2017.
    I appreciate your attention to this urgent matter.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Offers Relief to Colorado Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Drought

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Colorado to offset economic losses caused by drought beginning March 4.

    The disaster declaration covers the Colorado counties of Delta, Dolores, Eagle, Garfield, Gunnison, Mesa, Moffat, Montrose, Ouray, Pitkin, Rio Blanco, Routt, San Juan and San Miguel as well as the Utah counties of Grand San Juan and Uintah.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.62% for PNPs with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months after the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    Submit completed loan applications to SBA no later than Jan. 5, 2026.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement from Attorney General Bonta Regarding the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit Decision to Uphold AB 5

    Source: US State of California

    Friday, May 16, 2025

    Contact: (916) 210-6000, agpressoffice@doj.ca.gov

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today issued the following statement regarding the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit’s decision to uphold AB 5 in Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association, Inc. v. Bonta. The case was brought by the California Trucking Association, along with Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association, Inc. (OOIDA) in the Southern District of California. Plaintiffs argued that applying AB 5 to drivers who own their trucks and lease their services to motor carriers violates the Commerce Clause of the United States Constitution. In today’s decision, the Ninth Circuit disagreed, concluding that AB 5 neither discriminates against interstate commerce nor imposes an excessive burden upon it. 

    “We’re pleased with Court’s decision today to uphold AB 5’s protections. This landmark law is essential in preventing the exploitation of workers misclassified as independent contractors, including in the trucking industry, and ensures a more just and equitable economy for all Californians. The California Department of Justice remains steadfast in our commitment to standing up for the rights of our workers to receive the benefits and protections to which they are legally entitled.”

    A copy of the ruling is available here.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ‘Manu jumping’: The physics behind making humongous splashes in the pool

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Pankaj Rohilla, Postdoctoral Fellow in Fluid Dynamics, Georgia Institute of Technology

    Maybe you’ve unknowingly tried to do a manu jump. Isabel Pavia/Moment via Getty Images

    Whether diving off docks, cannonballing into lakes or leaping off the high board, there’s nothing quite like the joy of jumping into water.

    Olympic divers turned this natural act into a sophisticated science, with the goal of making a splash as small as possible. But another sport looks for just the opposite: the extreme maximum splash, one as high, wide and loud as possible.

    Welcome to the world of “manu jumping.” Although not a familiar term in the United States, manu jumping is beloved throughout New Zealand. The sport originated in the Māori community, where popping a manu is a way of life. There, manu jumpers leap from bridges, wharves and diving platforms to make the giant splashes.

    The sport is playful yet competitive. At the Z Manu World Champs, you win based on the height and width of your splash. The current record: a splash more than 32 feet high (10 meters).

    The concept sounds simple, but like Olympic diving, it turns out there’s a science to manu jumping.

    In New Zealand, manu jumping is an obsession.

    The Worthington splash

    As fluid dynamicists, we study the way living organisms interact with fluids – for instance, how flamingos feed with their heads underwater,
    or how insects walk on water.

    So when we stumbled upon viral videos of manu jumping on TikTok and YouTube, our curiosity was triggered. We launched a scientific investigation into the art of making a splash.

    Our research was more than just fun and games. Optimizing how bodies enter fluids – whether those bodies are human, animal or mechanical – is an indispensable branch of science. Understanding the physics of water entry has implications for naval engineering, biomechanics and robotics.

    We discovered that creating the perfect manu splash isn’t just about jumping into the water. Instead, it’s about mastering aerial maneuvers, timing underwater movements and knowing exactly how to hit the surface.

    The microsecond the manu jumper hits the water is critical. Two splashes actually occur: The first, the crown splash, forms as the body breaks the surface. The next, the Worthington splash, is responsible for the powerful burst of water that shoots high into the air. Manu jumping is all about triggering and maximizing the Worthington splash.

    So we analyzed 75 YouTube videos of manu jumps. First, we noticed the technique: Jumpers land glutes first, with legs and torso scrunched up in a V-shaped posture.

    But the moment they go underwater, the divers roll back and kick out to straighten their bodies. This expands the air cavity, the space of air created in the water by the jump; then the cavity collapses, detaching itself from the body. This period of detachment is known as “pinch-off time” – when the collapse sends a jet of water shooting upward. All of this happens within a fraction of a second.

    The science behind making a big splash.

    Answers from Manubot

    We found that jumpers entered the water at a median V-angle of about 46 degrees. Intrigued, we recreated these movements in a lab aquarium, using 3D-printed, V-shaped projectiles to test different V-angles.

    The result? A 45-degree angle produced the fastest, tallest splashes, virtually matching what we observed in the human jumpers. V-angles greater than 45 degrees increased the risk of injury from landing flat on the back. We found it interesting that the jumpers very nearly hit the optimal angle largely through what appeared to be intuition and trial and error.

    Note how the splash of the V-shaped projectiles was highest at 45 degrees.

    Digging deeper, we then built Manubot, a robot that mimics human body movements during manu jumps. It’s able to switch from a V-shape to a straight posture underwater. This is how we learned the optimal timing to maximize splash size.

    For instance, for someone who’s 5-foot-7 and jumping from 1 meter, opening their body within 0.26 to 0.3 seconds of hitting the water resulted in the biggest splash. Open too soon or too late, and splash size is compromised.

    Here’s how the Manubot worked.

    One caveat: Humans are far more complex than any 3D-printed projectile or a Manubot. Factors such as weight distribution, flexibility and anatomical shape add nuance that our models can’t yet replicate.

    For now, though, our findings highlight a simple truth: Creating the perfect manu splash isn’t the result of luck. Instead, it relies on a carefully tuned symphony of aerial and underwater maneuvers. So the next time you see someone spray everyone in the pool with a gigantic jump, remember – there’s a beautiful science behind the splash.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. ‘Manu jumping’: The physics behind making humongous splashes in the pool – https://theconversation.com/manu-jumping-the-physics-behind-making-humongous-splashes-in-the-pool-255837

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Security: DHS Debunks Fake News Narratives About Law Enforcement During Police Week

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    WASHINGTON – The Department of Homeland Security today released the following facts about Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) recent operations and Customs and Border Protection arrests to set the record straight on misleading news narratives and reporting.

    “Even during National Police Week, the media, members of Congress, and sanctuary politicians have demonized ICE and CBP officers who bravely serve their country,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “Attacks and smears against ICE have resulted in officers facing a 413% increase in assaults. We are setting the facts straight and reassuring America that President Trump and Secretary Noem will continue to support ICE and CBP in their efforts to make America safe again.

    Debunking the Biggest False News Stories this Week 

    Delaney Hall Storming was “oversight” by Congressional members  

    • At least three members of Congress, Representatives Robert Menendez, Jr., LaMonica McIver and Bonnie Watson Coleman, claimed that breaking into Delaney Hall was “oversight”—but it is actually trespassing and put ICE officers and detainees at risk.
    • Video footage shows McIver assaulting an ICE officer.
    • The allegations made by Newark politicians that Delaney Hall does not have the proper permitting are false. ICE maintains valid permits and inspections for plumbing and electricity and fire codes have been cleared.
    • Delaney Hall currently confines murderers, rapists, suspected terrorists and gang members.
    • There was no need for Congressional members to storm Delaney Hall—they could have just scheduled a tour. ICE will comply with the law and accommodate Members of Congress seeking to tour an ICE detention facility for the purpose of conducting oversight.
    • Safety, security, and good order are always primary considerations in a detention facility, and visitors must be properly identified and attired. 

    Nashville Mayor Smears ICE Enforcement  

    • Mayor Freddie O’Connell and biased news media framed ICE operations in Nashville as “not focused on making us safer.”
    • In reality, of the 196 illegal aliens ICE arrested, 95 had prior criminal convictions and pending criminal charges and 31 were previously removed individuals who reentered the U.S. illegally, which is a felony offense under federal law.
    • The successful operation resulted in the arrests of an MS-13 affiliate, a murderer, sex offenders, and illegal aliens convicted of assault. 

    ICE’s Hawaii Operation focused on “coffee farmers” 

    • Completely leaving out the facts and rap sheets of criminals arrested, the New York Times peddled a misleading narrative about ICE’s operation in Hawaii targeted criminal illegal aliens.
    • The operation resulted in the arrest of illegal aliens charged with kidnapping, assault, firearms offenses, drug offenses and theft. 

     Yamal Said, Lord Buffalo drummer, detained by border officials at airport

    • Yamal Said is a Mexican national and lawful U.S. permanent resident.
    • Yamal Said had a warrant for his arrest after violating a restraining order at least TWICE.
    • When he was attempting to leave the U.S., he was apprehended by CBP and has been turned over to local law enforcement.
    • If you come to our country and break our laws, you will be arrested. 

    Boston ICE agents arrest mother in front of her daughters 

    • What the media failed to report is the target of this ICE operation was a violent criminal illegal alien, Ferreira de Oliveira. She was arrested by local police for assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, and assault and battery of a pregnant victim.
    • District Councilor for the City of Worcester Haxhiaj pulled a political stunt and incited chaos by trying to obstruct law enforcement. ICE officers and local police regained control of the situation and ICE arrested Ferreira de Oliveira.
    • The previous administration’s open border policies allowed this criminal to illegally enter our country in August of 2022. Thanks to President Trump and Secretary Noem this criminal is off our streets.  

    Lies for likes: Influencer claims he was targeted for “political beliefs”  

    • Claims that Hasan Piker’s political beliefs triggered a CBP inspection are baseless.
    • CBP officers follow the law, not agendas. Upon entering the country, this individual was referred for further inspection—a routine, lawful process that occurs daily, and can apply to any traveler.   

    Once his inspection was complete, he was promptly released. 

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI New Orleans Seeking Information on Escaped Inmates

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation FBI Crime News (b)

    At the request of the New Orleans Police Department, FBI New Orleans has surged resources to assist with apprehending inmates who escaped from the Orleans Parish Jail on May 16, 2025. The FBI routinely offers assistance to our law enforcement partners, to provide additional manpower and specialized resources. 

    In addition, the FBI is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for tips leading to the arrest of any of the inmates. 

    Anyone with information is asked to call the FBI at 1-800-Call-FBI or send digital tips to fbi.gov/neworleansfugitives

    MIL Security OSI –