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  • MIL-OSI Russia: What humanitarian aid do entrepreneurs send to the SVO zone in the spring?

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Moscow store owners are collecting humanitarian supplies to send to the special military operation (SVO) zone. The parcels contain medicines, first aid supplies, and clothing for the changeable spring weather. In addition, through volunteers and charitable foundations, money is transferred to servicemen to buy necessary goods.

    Thus, employees of a grocery store and a shopping center in the Mozhaisk district regularly transfer funds to volunteers to purchase medicines. Three supermarkets in the Kuntsevo district send medicines, regular and thermal underwear, and warm shoes to the fighters. All parcels to the SVO zone are delivered by a local resident – a participant in the special operation, who returns to the capital for the duration of his vacation.

    The owner of a small retail outlet in the Levoberezhny district donated food products, camouflage nets and medicines to the Luhansk People’s Republic through a charitable foundation.

    Employees of shopping centers in the Bibirevo, Severnoye Chertanovo and Butyrsky districts collected medicines and first aid supplies for military personnel.

    The shopping center in Teply Stan became the record holder for the amount of medicines, food products and grocery goods sent to the cities of the Luhansk People’s Republic – its tenants and employees transferred more than 4.5 tons of humanitarian aid.

    Hats, jackets and socks

    Entrepreneurs send clothes, shoes, insoles and socks, including those with thermoregulation, to the SVO zone. These products provide comfort in any weather conditions.

    Such humanitarian aid was collected by employees of a shoe store in Golyanovo, a fixed-price store in Severnoye Izmailovo, and four shopping and entertainment centers in Kurkino and Mitino. The parcels also included insulated rubber boots.

    One of the largest humanitarian aid shipments was sent to the combat zone from Ochakovo-Matveevskoye – a local trading house gave the military personnel more than two thousand T-shirts and vests.

    Tons of winter and demi-season clothing were handed over to the participants of the special operation by employees of a shopping mall in Novogireyevo, a textile store for the whole family in Strogino, and four retail outlets in Yuzhny Chertanovo.

    Owners of capital shops also care about residents of new regions. For example, tenants of a shopping centre in the Chertanovo Severnoye district collected children’s clothes and clothing for pregnant women from the Donetsk People’s Republic.

    Owners of Moscow shops, shopping malls, car dealerships and other service establishments, as well as Moscow restaurateurs, have been sending humanitarian aid to the combat zone since the first days of the Second World War. The parcels contain products that have a long shelf life: canned meat, fish and vegetables, tons of various cereals – from rice and buckwheat to pearl barley, pasta, as well as sweets (cookies, candies, chocolate) and much more.

    Entrepreneurs also donate building materials and even military equipment, including quadcopters and entire convoys of vehicles.

    More information about the activities of the capital’s Department of Trade and Services can be found in the official telegram channel.

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

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    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/153726073/

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: More than 190 events will be held by Moscow museums as part of the Days of Historical and Cultural Heritage campaign

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    On May 17, as part of the Days of Historical and Cultural Heritage campaign, more than 190 thematic events will be held at Moscow museum sites. Admission will be free, with prior registration.

    At 12:00 and 14:00, the State Darwin Museum will show a video tour “The Diversity of Life on Earth”. Visitors will travel around the globe and get acquainted with its inhabitants. Without leaving the museum, participants will dive into the depths of the sea, visit evergreen tropical forests and hot savannah, climb mountains and feel the cold breath of the ice kingdom of both poles of the Earth.

    At 13:00, a lecture will be held in the gallery “Na Peschanoy” of the association “Exhibition halls of Moscow” “The Empty Shoebox: How Something Becomes a Work of Art”. Visitors will be told about the famous shoebox, which Mexican artist Gabriel Orozco exhibited at the Venice Biennale in 1993. Guests will learn why the object became a work of art and what meanings are hidden in it.

    At the same time, a lecture will be held in the portrait gallery of the Big Stone Greenhouse of the Kuskovo estate “Masterpieces of Western European ceramics from the 15th to early 20th centuries in the museum’s collection”Listeners will learn how ceramic traditions developed in different countries over more than five centuries, and will see vases, dishes, and sculptural compositions.

    At 2:00 p.m., city residents are invited to a lecture “The Cultural Life of Pre-War Moscow as Perceived by Georgy Efron”It will take place in the Marina Tsvetaeva House-Museum and will tell about the life of the poetess’s son and his impressions of the capital.

    At 16:00 Gogol House invites you to a walking tour “Arbat Star. The Path to Victory”Participants will learn about the history of Arbat Square.

    In addition, at 4:00 p.m. in the music room of the Scriabin Museum there will be chamber music concert. Students and teachers of the A.N. Scriabin Music College (Elektrostal) and the 1st Moscow Regional Music College (Kolomna) will perform works by Giovanni Battista Pergolesi, Niccolò Paganini, Gabriel Fauré, Francis Poulenc and Alexander Scriabin.

    At 16:30 in the Moscow State Art Gallery there will be a lecture by the People’s Artist of the USSR Alexander Shilov “Moscow through the centuries”Participants will learn how the urban landscape has developed over the years and what Moscow looked like in paintings in different eras.

    The Alexander Shilov Gallery will also host a quest “In Search of a Mysterious Masterpiece”. It will start at 17:30. Guests will have to solve the mystery of one of the artist’s paintings by completing tasks and answering questions.

    At 17:00 in the Moscow Museum of Modern Art on Petrovka (building 25) there will be meeting with the artist and poet of the second generation of nonconformists Vladimir Bashlykov. He will read his poems and conduct a tour of the exhibition “Silence Will Turn into Words” — a large retrospective exhibition of his own works created from the 1970s to 2024.

    The Krasnokholmskaya Gallery of the Moscow Exhibition Halls Association is organizing a lecture at the same time. “Glitch Art. The Art of Being Wrong”Participants will learn how mistakes and failures became a method for creating unique works of art.

    Get the latest news quickly official telegram channel the city of Moscow.

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: “Moscow Longevity” will help job seekers over 55 years old find work

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The Moscow Longevity project and a major career portal have created website, where current vacancies for Muscovites over 55 years old are collected, as well as useful options for finding a job.

    “Today, many older people, regardless of age, want to continue their professional development. You can master something new and change your occupation at 60, 70, and even 80 years old. In the capital, a system of continuous education has been built within the framework of the Moscow Longevity project. Participants can gain valuable knowledge and undergo professional retraining, learn how to create unique products with their own hands, and much more. To make it easier for them to apply their new skills and knowledge, together with the Rabota.ru portal, we have created a convenient page where you can choose a suitable vacancy, find tips on finding a job, and watch useful training videos,” said the Deputy Head of the Department of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of the City of Moscow

    Vladimir Filippov.

    On the new page, older Muscovites will be able to find vacancies with suitable conditions: remote work, flexible hours, part-time employment, and also connect to the Career Assistant service, which will send resumes to suitable employers within 10 days. Companies that receive responses will contact the applicant if the resume interests them. The instructions on the website will help you connect to the service, you can also contact any Moscow longevity center.

    Users will find articles and videos on the page dedicated to the specifics of job searches for applicants over 55 years old, as well as a guide to the site and other important information.

    Older Muscovites strive to remain active and independent for as long as possible, supporting the global trend for lifelong education. The desire to master new specialties and develop existing skills is becoming a key factor in professional success in today’s economic conditions.

    The city provides all the opportunities for older candidates to find work. Thus, in the center “Professions of the Future”Career mentors help you decide on areas for further professional development and create a competent resume, select relevant vacancies and support you at all stages of employment.

    In the center “My career” The 5.0 program is in effect, which enables people over 50 to realize their professional potential, master a new profession in partner schools, and increase their competitiveness in the labor market. The center’s specialists find an individual approach to each candidate: they help to create a high-quality resume, improve their competencies in the areas of digital literacy and emotional intelligence. Applicants are offered to master a new profession, monetize a hobby, and start their own business.

    “Moscow Longevity” is being implemented within the framework of the regional project “Older Generation” national project “Family”to increase the period of active longevity and healthy life expectancy in the capital.

    Get the latest news quickly official telegram channel the city of Moscow.

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    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/153790073/

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Three old eclectic style buildings in Moscow have been recognized as architectural monuments

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Three capital houses from the late 19th and early 20th centuries have been included in the Unified State Register of Cultural Heritage Sites. Among them are the mansion of E.F. Lopatina on Maly Karetny Lane (building 11, building 1), the mansion of A.V. Demidov on Sadovaya-Kudrinskaya Street (building 17, building 1), and the mansion of N.V. Urusova on Denezhny Lane (building 16, building 1). Previously, they had the intermediate status of identified cultural heritage sites.

    The two-story residential building with a basement and attic in Maly Karetny Lane was built in 1889 by order of peasant Ekaterina Lopatina and according to the design of architect Yakov Makhonin. In 1912, the property on which this house is located was acquired by Yakov Alshvang, a first guild merchant and hereditary honorary citizen. He developed part of the territory of his property as a production zone and opened a sewing factory. After 1917, the experimental technical sewing factory No. 5 named after Profintern (VSNKh) was located here.

    The house of Ekaterina Lopatina is classified as an eclectic architectural style. Rich stucco decor has been preserved on the main facade of the building. Its high window openings are decorated with triangular and bow-shaped sandriks on brackets, they are decorated with stucco in the form of wreaths and garlands. On the facade, you can see a soffit cornice with denticles (teeth) that rest on brackets with lion masks and mascarons. The front entrance is decorated with a cast-iron canopy. A gate with a wicket adjoins the main facade.

    Another mansion, recognized as an architectural monument, is located on Sadovaya-Kudrinskaya Street. It has two floors with a semi-basement. The building was erected in 1912, also in the eclectic style, according to the design of the architect Konstantin Razumov for the textile manufacturer Alexander Demidov.

    This house has a complex architectural form. In its appearance, you can see features of both neo-Gothic, such as a pediment with a gable end, and Art Nouveau: mosaic inserts, reliefs, panels, decorative metal elements. The main facade of the house faces the Garden Ring.

    The interior decor in neoclassical style with eclectic elements has been well preserved to this day: wood paneling, ornamental paintings, coffered ceilings made of bog oak in the lobby and dining room, bas-reliefs, stucco and carved stone decor, artificial marble finishing. Built-in furniture in individual rooms has also been preserved.

    Another example of eclecticism, which also received a new protected status, is a one-story mansion with a semi-basement floor on Denezhny Lane. It was built in 1899 as a residential building for Natalia Urusova according to the design of the architect Karl Treiman.

    The historical design of the building’s facades in the neoclassical style has been well preserved. The interiors of the house are made in the eclectic style: stucco and drawn plaster decor, tinted ornamental reliefs with plant motifs, relief dessus-de-portes (decorative panels above the doors), stucco cornices, lampshades and rosettes, panel parquet. In addition, the building has preserved the historical front marble staircase with marble columns at the base and a metal railing made in the form of a complex pattern, as well as stoves and a marble fireplace. The protected status also applies to the openwork metal fence of the mansion, designed by architect Stanislav Kuchinsky.

    Metropolitan Department of Cultural Heritage carries out consistent work to identify cultural heritage sites and their inclusion in the register. Over the past 14 years, more than 700 buildings have been included. The status ensures state protection – such objects cannot be demolished. Their owners and tenants do not have the right to carry out any work without the consent of the city. In addition, they must do everything possible to preserve these buildings.

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    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/153812073/

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Textiles as Philosophy: How the Triennial in Tsaritsyno Weaves Stories

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The Fabric of Art: How the Triennial Participants Were Selected

    The triennial is a competition program that takes place every three years. This year, the triennial reveals a theme with a poetic and multi-layered name: “Diversity of connections. Threads, breaks, connections.” Hence the interesting division into sections and halls, which in itself is figurative and excites the imagination of the visitor

    “The first hall is dedicated to the breaking and restoration of connections, the second one explores the connection of opposites. The third hall represents the biological connections of man with nature, and the fourth one is addressed to the internal connections with oneself,” lists Anna Karganova, the curator of the triennial.

    There are only eight halls for the competition program and another five for the non-competition program.

    The selection of participants for the fifth triennial took eight months — from February to October 2023. Artists from Russia and abroad (Belarus, Moldova, Kazakhstan and other countries) sent 175 works. After a careful selection, the jury included more than 80 works in the competition program: seven large-scale installations for the park area, 32 modern textile objects and 43 traditional tapestries. Most of the works are exclusive, the artists created them specifically for the triennial.

    “This year the competition is held in four nominations. These are “Best Work in Traditional Tapestry Technique”, “Best Art Object in the Interior”, “Best Art Object in the Park”, “Best Student Work”. Therefore, most of the works presented at our exhibition were created specifically for it,” the curator explains.

    Not just wool and linen: experimenting with materials

    The main condition is handwork. The material can be textile, traditional, or completely unexpected. Reinforcement mesh, aluminum wire, jute rope, plastic fishing line, polyethylene, paper and dried flowers create new connections, forms and interweavings. This is a laboratory. For example, Natalia Kosovets in the “Collection of Memories” wove a hand-collected herbarium into the canvas, preserving the warmth of sunny days.

    Programming language, forest and cotton

    In his monumental six-meter “Jacquard”, Argentinean Julian Pesse reflects on how humans and mechanical mediators interact in creativity. “This is a reference to Joseph Marie Jacquard, who invented the Jacquard loom and revolutionized weaving. The work of the Argentine artist is the result of experiments at the intersection of textile art, printing and the binary number system,” reflects the curator of the triennial Anna Karganova. Joseph Marie Jacquard’s device was the first programmable machine, hence the binary number system. The work is black and white: the two colors mean 1 and 0 in the programming language.

    Belarusian artist Khristina Vysotskaya in her work “Souls of the Forest. Connections” presents the forest as a living space where trees are connected to each other. She draws an analogy between the forest ecosystem and the single digital and information field in which modern man exists.

    “This installation reveals a world where trees are connected by invisible threads. It is a symbol of energy and information. Materials: cotton, wool, acrylic, yarn, metal,” adds the curator.

    18 thousand nails and a web of meanings: installation by Olga Kiseleva

    From the non-competition program, it is worth noting the large-scale project “The Network We Live In”. The installation resembles a fishing or hunting set, but refers to different meanings. The network in the modern world is a means of communication: the World Wide Web, social networks. The archaic network has a double meaning: for the victim, it is captivity and death, and for the hunter, it is a guarantee of survival and caught prey. The digital network has the same duality: it connects people on different ends of the planet and separates those sitting next to each other. It serves for career growth and development and for creating dependence at the same time. The viewer will find the answer to the question: what network are they in and what does it mean to them.

    The installation of the exhibit became a test and an experience of self-knowledge. In Olga Kiseleva’s work, we implemented a special meditative process of creating the installation. It consists of sequentially tying and pulling threads through a special structure. Each thread is fixed on nails. It took 18 thousand of them! ” Anna Karganova shares.

    Microstories: When Small is the Beginning of Big

    The Micro — Intersection Point project has collected over 100 miniature works. The exhibits here are no larger than 20 by 20 centimeters, and most often — 10 by 10 centimeters. This is a laboratory for experiments. What the artists cannot yet embody in a large format, they do in miniature. It is worth paying attention to Tatyana Fedotova’s work Dance with Matches — a round dance of textile matches: life as a dance and a dangerous game.

    Textile Guardians of the Park: Dialogue between Art and Nature

    The exhibition extends from the Bread House building onto the street, into the park, emphasizing that it is also part of the exhibition space of the Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve. Opposite the Bread House stands Pavel Elfimov’s “Mammonteus” — a woven figure of a fantasy prehistoric animal made of coarse jute rope. A few steps away stands the flexible and touching “Accordionist” by Elena Molchanovskaya made of artificial rattan. The central square is decorated with “Star Called Sun” by Natalia Klimova — an art object made of metal, plywood and colored ribbons. In this work, the artist explores the ancient beliefs of our ancestors.

    Near the Bolshoy Bridge, attention is drawn to “Creation” by Tatyana Patina and Maria Bondarenko – a monumental hand pulling threads from the ground. The foundation of the historical Mylnya was transformed by the work of Katerina Lime-Blossom “hints of integrity” – writing with a small letter is not a typo, but an idea. The interweaving of yarn connects the past and the future.

    The Milovida pavilion features the installation Under Water by Evgenia Evart. It is made from recycled plastic. The artist studies water as the basis of life and draws attention to the fact that plastic pollutes water bodies everywhere. Fish made from plastic bottles, swimming on polyethylene waves, express the author’s anxiety.

    On the surface of the Upper Tsaritsyn Pond, Alexandra Ostrovskaya’s “Portal II” sways. The landmark is the island with the Mermaid Gate. During the time of Catherine the Great, plays were staged here, and folk festivals were held here, and the artist suggests that this could be the portal connecting worlds and eras.

    The optimal route through the park exhibition: start your tour from the Greenhouse Gate (entrance no. 9), moving along the natural relief of the park. Each work occupies a well-thought-out place in the landscape, revealing itself to the viewer in a certain sequence.

    Parallel threads

    A parallel program has been prepared as part of the triennial: some of it is for professionals, but most of the events are for everyone. Guests can expect lectures, master classes, and creative meetings. Of particular interest are the excursions. The schedule will be available on the museum’s website and in social networks. And in the fall, an inclusive project will start — special master classes in hand weaving for teenagers with mental disabilities.

    No longer a craft

    The curators note that over the 14 years of the triennial’s history, the artists have become significantly “younger,” which indicates a growing interest in textile art among emerging artists.

    “For quite a long time, textiles had the status of something handicraft. And if we take the development of the triennial, the types of works that we exhibit have changed very much. Now there are a lot of spatial works, a lot of compositions with high relief, there are textile sculptures. And all this suggests that we have moved very far away from the traditional perception of textile art. And this is great, in my opinion,” concludes Anna Karganova.

    The triennial can be visited from May 16 to November 30. To see the exhibition in the Bread House, you will need a ticket, but you can walk around the park freely.

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Moscow Aviation Center specialists complete preparations for the summer season

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The Moscow Aviation Center is completing its annual preparation of flight and engineering personnel, equipment and infrastructure facilities for the summer season. This was reported by the capital’s municipal services complex.

    The crews of the Moscow Aviation Center completed theoretical training, which ended with a traditional conference, and began practical training with passing tests for admission to the operation of helicopters in the warm period. Aircraft engineers and technicians refreshed their knowledge and are now conducting routine maintenance of the aircraft. The motorcade specialists switched the transport to summer mode, and the airfield service workers prepared the landing sites.

    “As climate conditions change, so do piloting methods. All crew members must understand many things. For example, they must be able to read a weather map to avoid dangerous weather conditions in the air, and know the habits of migratory birds to react correctly when meeting them in the sky. All pilots have good knowledge of mathematics and physics. Both during training and during the flight, we constantly make calculations: how much weight can be lifted depending on the air temperature, how to adjust the course taking into account the direction and strength of the wind, and much more,” said Alexey Didenko, commander of the Moscow Aviation Center flight squadron.

    According to the pilots of the aviation center, the probability of thunderstorms, heavy rain and squalls increases in spring and summer. In dry, warm weather, there is a risk of losing ground when landing a helicopter. This is a situation when air currents from the machine’s propeller raise dust from the surface of the site, causing visibility to drop to almost zero. Such factors significantly complicate helicopter control even for the most experienced pilots.

    “Often such situations occur during independent air-to-air landings, when crews have to land as close as possible to the scene of the incident, and the sides of roads, city courtyards, and even football fields can become landing sites. In such cases, the pilot hovers above the ground, “blowing up” everything beneath him, and watches carefully: when it becomes clear, he descends. In the summer, this is one of the most indispensable piloting techniques,” said Vyacheslav Kalenov, deputy commander of the second aviation squadron of the Moscow Aviation Center.

    All complex and possible abnormal situations are analyzed by the crews at the final stage of theoretical spring-summer training – the conference. At it, specialists exchange experiences, analyze various aviation incidents, develop scenarios for their prevention and summarize the information received.

    Now the flight crew has reported on the theoretical part of the seasonal program and has begun training flights. They will last until the end of May. As a result, the crews will receive permission to carry out aviation work in the warm season.

    Preparations are also being completed in other divisions of the Moscow Aviation Center. Employees of the aviation technical base conduct special maintenance of helicopters. They inspect the systems and units of all aircraft, the landing gear wheels of firefighting aircraft and the skis of medical aircraft, navigation equipment and communications equipment, and replace winter covers to protect the aircraft from exposure to subzero temperatures and snow with lightweight ones. The engines of rotary-wing aircraft are switched to a special summer operating mode.

    According to Yegor Zhigarev, head of the aviation and technical base of the Moscow Aviation Center, specialists always check the fire extinguishing system sensors and replace the lubricant. For example, in warm weather, more viscous compounds are used. If necessary, anti-corrosion treatment of helicopter fuselages is carried out. Specialists also analyze the specifics of operating equipment in the warm season and the impact of weather conditions on aircraft wear.

    The employees of the engineering and airfield service inspect 28 helicopter pads managed by the aviation center after winter. As its head Vladimir Makarov said, with the onset of spring, much attention is paid to the serviceability of the lighting systems and the condition of the road surface. When a stable positive temperature is established, the markings are updated, the paintwork of the fire-fighting equipment is refreshed, the facades are washed and the fences are repaired.

    Briefings were held in the air center’s motorcade: the drivers discussed the specifics of working in the warm season, and the mechanics discussed preparing the equipment for the summer season. The service is responsible for seasonal maintenance of vehicles, changing tires to summer tires, and replacing equipment. For example, instead of winter brushes, watering systems were installed on the airfield municipal cleaning vehicle.

    More than 530 people were saved by the crews of the Moscow Aviation Center in 2024

    Timely maintenance of helicopters, airfield equipment, equipment and communications equipment allows specialists of the Moscow Aviation Center to be ready for any whims of nature. And constant training of flight personnel maintains the professionalism of the crews at a high level.

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Participants of the Backstage School of Organizers will hold more than 20 events for Moscow youth

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Participants of the Backstage organizers school will hold more than 20 events for Moscow youth from May 15 to 25. This format of interaction with city residents is one of the stages of training. The Backstage project helps young Muscovites master the art of organizing events and become professionals in the event industry.

    The events will take place in the multi-format space “Youth of Moscow”, registration is available on the portal.

    “The Backstage School of Organizers is not just a project, but a real start for those who want to connect their lives with event organization. We are not limited to theory: already during the training, the guys get the opportunity to create real events. It is important for us that each participant feels part of a large process,” said Margarita Savinkina, head of the Youth of Moscow project.

    The first events will take place on May 15. They include an intellectual and entertaining quiz “Youth Challenge” for students of higher education institutions and colleges, within the framework of which teams will demonstrate their ingenuity and resourcefulness in various fields. In addition, there will be master classes in drawing and folk dancing. And guests will also enjoy a creative quiz “ARTiFact”.

    For those who are interested in the culture of the peoples of Russia, an event has been prepared “In the Heart of the Cossacks: Traditions and Heritage”Participants will watch a video podcast about the life of the Cossacks and their customs, and will also immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the everyday life of this people.

    On May 16, there will be a training session with a culinary master class “Sports lunch on trampolines”. Everyone will be able to play sports and prepare a balanced smoothie, as well as learn about proper nutrition.

    On May 17, models, make-up artists and photographers will take part in the master class “Storyboard”, which will be followed by a competition for the best photo. On May 18, guests of the multi-format space “Youth of Moscow” will work in the media lab “Content is Art”. They will learn about various formats for presenting material to the audience.

    May 19 will begin with morning yoga “Magic of the Morning”. The event includes meditation and a light breakfast. On the same day, there will be a fascinating quest dedicated to folk traditions. Another quest, a detective one, will be held on May 21.

    On May 22, there will be an art therapy class, and to learn how to overcome internal barriers, you can attend the interactive event “Challenge”. In the evening of this day, there will be a film screening, after which viewers will meet with a young director and discuss the film.

    A unique quest, “The Last Chance for an Ovation,” is planned for May 24. Teams will have to quickly solve the problem and help the circus performers. Young Muscovites will also be able to try their hand at the “Youth in Focus” photocross.

    On May 25, there will be a musical game “92 melodies”, a media intensive on youth policy areas “Mediavector”, as well as an educational interactive lecture “Application of artificial intelligence in the field of event organization”.

    Detailed information about the events can be found on the portal “Youth of Moscow” Andproject pages on social networks.

    Creating opportunities for each young person to realize their potential is in line with the objectives of the national project “Youth and Children”.

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Karting, darts and padel tennis: city residents are invited to the Mosprom-2025 Spartakiad

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Registration for participation in the Mosprom-2025 Spartakiad has begun in the capital. Industrialists, students of the city’s universities and colleges will be able to apply for the competition until June 20. This was reported by the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the capital’s Department of Investment and Industrial Policy Anatoly Garbuzov.

    “For seven years, the Mosprom Spartakiad has remained a unique platform for raising team spirit, creating business contacts and friendly ties among the capital’s industrial community. Interest in the event is constantly growing: if in 2024 more than seven thousand people took part in the competition, then this year about 8.5 thousand athletes are expected. To maintain interest, we regularly develop the project and offer new exciting sports. This season, for the first time, we will hold karting and padel tennis competitions,” said Anatoly Garbuzov.

    In 2025, competitions in 14 sports will be held for employees of industrial enterprises, students of specialized higher educational institutions and colleges: billiards, swimming, darts, three-on-three basketball, athletics, ping-pong, e-sports, hockey, volleyball, badminton, football, chess, karting and padel tennis.

    You can apply for participation atofficial website of the project or by phone: 7 495 744-11-45. The competition will end in September. Participants will take part in final tournaments in the main sports and receive awards.

    Since 2019, more than 20 thousand representatives of the capital’s factories, universities and colleges have participated in the competition. Among them were employees of enterprises producing medical equipment, food products, cables, ventilation systems, robots and other products. Spartakiad “Mosprom” became a laureate “Sport and Russia – 2022” award in the nomination “Best industry competitions for employees”.

    Quickly find out the main news of the capital inofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

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

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/153780073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China, Brazil sign memorandum of understanding on strategic cooperation in financial field

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, May 14 (Xinhua) — The central banks of China and Brazil signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on strategic cooperation in the financial field on Tuesday, the People’s Bank of China (PBOC) said.

    The PBOC said the signing of the MOU is intended to deepen cooperation between China and Brazil in areas such as improving the investment environment in the financial market, enhancing financial technical exchange, promoting financial infrastructure connectivity, etc.

    On the same day, the PBOC and the Central Bank of Brazil also extended the term of their bilateral currency swap agreement, worth a total of 190 billion yuan (about $26.39 billion), or 157 billion Brazilian reals. The agreement is for five years and can be extended by mutual agreement. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Israel to Enter Gaza with Full Force in Coming Days – B. Netanyahu

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    JERUSALEM, May 14 (Xinhua) — The Israeli army will enter the Gaza Strip in the coming days “in full force to complete the offensive and defeat Hamas,” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said in a statement on Tuesday.

    “With your spirit we will achieve complete victory. The elimination of Hamas and the release of all our hostages go hand in hand,” the prime minister said, speaking to wounded reservists on Monday.

    “Hamas can say: ‘Here, we want to free 10 more hostages.’ Okay, bring them. We will take them and then enter, but we will never stop the war. We can make a truce for a certain period, but we will go to the end,” he added.

    The prime minister noted that Israel has formed an administration that will allow Gazans to leave the enclave. “But the problem is that we need countries that will accept them, and this is what we are working on now,” B. Netanyahu emphasized.

    The prime minister estimates that more than 50 percent of Gaza residents would leave if given the chance. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • Anita Anand appointed Canada’s Foreign Minister; will pilot reset with India

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney has appointed Anita Ananda to the powerful post of Foreign Minister in his new cabinet charged with fulfilling the “mandate for change”.

    He also appointed Maninder Sidhu as the international trade minister, and two others of Indian descent as secretaries of state – the equivalent of ministers of state.

    One of Anand’s missions will be to pilot the reset of the almost ruptured ties with India that Carney signalled, while managing the delicate relations with President Donald Trump’s America.

    Announcing the new cabinet of 28 ministers, he instructed them to “bring new ideas, a clear focus and decisive actions to their work”.

    Ruby Sahota, who was the minister of democratic institutions, has been downgraded to a secretary of state and put in charge of combating crime.

    Randeep Sarai is another of the ten secretaries of state and will deal with international development.

    Anand, who was the transport minister and had earlier held the defence portfolio, said in January that she was leaving politics and returning to academia.

    But Carney persuaded her to return to the cabinet and take the foreign affairs portfolio after she was re-elected in last month’s election.

    Carney, who inherited former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s cabinet, now has a chance to put his mark after having led the Liberal Party to victory, beating the odds in last month’s election.

    He cut the number of ministers from 39 in Trudeau’s cabinet to 28, and three politicians of Indian origin in the last cabinet do not find a place now.

    What is probably the most important portfolio during the tariff war with the US has been assigned to Dominic LeBlanc, who will be the minister responsible for Canada-US trade.

    Chrystia Freeland, who had earlier been the deputy prime minister with the finance portfolio and had challenged Carney for the party leadership, industry portfolio.

    Anand replaces Melanie Joly, who has been shunted to the transport and internal trade ministry that she had held

    Carney, who has called relations with India “incredibly important”, said of the ties with India on the eve of the elections that “there is a path forward to address those with mutual respect and to build out.”

    David McGuinty, who was the public safety minister, takes over defence.

    The new cabinet has fewer Canadians of Indian descent.

    Harjit Singh Sajjan, who was a former defence minister and held the Emergency preparedness portfolio in the last cabinet, did not seek re-election to the House of Commons and left.

    From the last cabinet, Arif Virani, who was the justice minister and attorney-general, and Kamal Khera, who held the diversity and inclusion of persons with disabilities portfolio, have been dropped by Carney.

    (IANS)

  • MIL-OSI USA: Beyer Opening Remarks In Ways & Means Markup Of Republican Tax Cut For The Wealthy

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Don Beyer (D-VA)

    Congressman Don Beyer (D-VA) today delivered the following remarks during the opening stages of the House Ways and Means Committee’s markup of Republicans’ legislation to lower taxes for the wealthy while making the largest cut to Medicaid in history:

    Top-heavy tax cuts paid for by low-income benefit cuts.

    President Trump and the Republican majorities in Congress were narrowly elected – by little more than one percent – with the simple hope from the American people that they would lower costs.

    The President himself declared he would “bring prices down on day one.”

    Trump and Republicans are now breaking that promise.

    In fact, thanks in part to the unprecedented taxes Trump has imposed on the American people through his nonsensical tariff plan, prices remain high, and consumer inflation expectations have surged.

    Americans are seeing the evidence of his broken promise everywhere.

    When you buy a cup of coffee, or a used car, or a dozen eggs, we’re paying more now than we did before Trump took office.

    On top of that, under Trump’s reckless leadership, our economy took a nosedive in the first quarter of this year, the first time it’s contracted in years.

    Many other indicators are flashing red. Economic uncertainty is at a [long] time high, and the conversations around the kitchen table and in small businesses are the same: everybody’s scared.

    And that brings us to today.

    My Republican friends are hoping this multi trillion-dollar giveaway to the wealthy will somehow dig them out the hole the President has gotten them into.

    If history is any guide, more tax breaks for the rich won’t do much, if anything, to put the economy on firmer footing or provide lasting assistance for working- and middle-class Americans.

    Their model is the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Trump and the Republicans want to extend it here, but look at it: it failed across the board.

    Wages didn’t rise any faster, the economy didn’t grow any faster, and the bill definitely didn’t pay for itself. It just exploded our national debt.

    And just like last time, dollar for dollar, the benefits in this bill overwhelmingly skew towards the ultra-wealthy.

    It’s nice to have my friends talk about the tax cuts on tips and the tax cuts on overtime, but this is a tiny part of this bill – a distraction from what’s really going on.

    They are trying to pull a fast one on the American people, by delivering massive, long-term benefits to millionaires and billionaires, while throwing a few temporary – temporary – tax breaks to working people, timed to help them get through one election cycle.

    The folks getting the most help in this legislation are the same folks who don’t bat an eye when prices go up at the grocery store or they buy a new car or they go on vacation, or they’re affected by the tariffs that cost average Americans at least $2,800 a year, according to Yale.

    The ultra-wealthy are the very last people that need a boost on their tax returns.

    And yet, my Republican colleagues closely attend to their needs in this bill, ensuring that their rates stay low, and estates worth tens of millions of dollars don’t get taxed, and the folks who manage hedge funds keep their special carried interest tax loophole.

    Making the legislation even worse is how my Republican friends plan on offsetting its eye-watering price tag.

    They want to undermine America’s fastest-growing, most affordable energy sources, and jack up utility bills for working families, and do their friends in Big Oil a big favor in the process.

    They want to cut food assistance programs for the poorest Americans, and they’re planning on ripping health insurance away from 14 million Americans, including kids, seniors, and people with disabilities.

    I have a constituent, Chris McCauley, with spastic quadriplegia, and he uses a wheelchair.

    Medicaid pays for his equipment and support programs during the day.

    Without the help of his dedicated caregivers, and the support Medicaid provides his mother, she wouldn’t have been able to work full-time and support her family as a single mom for the past 20 years.

    These are the kinds of families that this legislation will harm.

    All to help give their rich donors a tax break they don’t need, and that won’t change their lives at all.

    Trump and the Republicans have shown what their priorities are.

    At every turn, they choose to the help the rich, often by taking money directly out of the pockets of working Americans.

    This bill will be a disaster for the American people, and will further divide our society between the thoughtlessly-comfortable and the yearning discouraged.

    Top-heavy tax cuts paid for by low-income benefit cuts.

    I urge all of my colleagues to vote no.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: THOMPSON ANNOUNCES OVERALL WINNER, YOLO COUNTY FINALIST FOR FOURTH DISTRICT’S 2025 CONGRESSIONAL ART COMPETITION

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mike Thompson Representing the 5th District of CALIFORNIA

    Napa – Sunday, Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-04) announced that Isabella Macias, a sophomore at American Canyon High School, was chosen as California’s Fourth District winner of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition. Amy Shan from Davis Senior High School was named as the Yolo County finalist.

    “I always look forward to the Congressional Art Competition. It’s a wonderful chance for my colleagues, visitors of the Capitol, and me to admire the incredible talent of high school student-artists from our district and nation,” said Thompson. “Congratulations to Isabella Macias for being selected as this year’s winner representing California’s Fourth District, and congratulations to Amy Shan on being named the Yolo County finalist in this year’s Congressional Art Competition. Amy’s artwork stood out for its creativity and skill, and it’s a testament to the incredible talent we have in California’s Fourth District.”

    “Every year, I’m amazed by the creativity and skill these students bring to their work, and this year was no different. Thank you to all the young artists who submitted pieces and to their families and teachers for their support and guidance, and to our judges for their thoughtful consideration. I can’t wait to see Isabella’s artwork proudly displayed in the United States Capitol.”

    The winning piece, “Representation Matters” is composed of acrylic on canvas. 

    The Yolo County finalist piece, “Daddy, Why Have You Been Home for 2 Years?”, is composed of pencil and paper.

    This year’s Congressional Art Competition judges were:

    • Kristina Young, local Napa Artist
    • Marc Pandone, Professor at Solano Community College

    Each spring, Members of Congress host the Congressional Art Competition to recognize and encourage artistic talent across their districts and our nation. Since the Artistic Discovery Competition began in 1982, more than 650,000 high school students have participated.

    To enter, students submit entries to their representative’s office and panels of district artists select the winning artwork. Winners are recognized both in their district and at an annual awards ceremony in Washington, D.C. The winning works are displayed for one year in the halls of the U.S. Capitol.

    The complete list of artists recognized includes: 

    • Alivia Tucker, Lake County 2025 Finalist
    • Isabella Macias, Napa County 2025 Finalist and Winner of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition
    • Analise Bittle, Solano County 2025 Finalist
    • Lynna Xu, Sonoma County 2025 Finalist
    • Amy Shan, Yolo County 2025 Finalist

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: THOMPSON ANNOUNCES OVERALL WINNER, SOLANO COUNTY FINALIST FOR FOURTH DISTRICT’S 2025 CONGRESSIONAL ART COMPETITION

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mike Thompson Representing the 5th District of CALIFORNIA

    Napa – Sunday, Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-04) announced that Isabella Macias, a sophomore at American Canyon High School, was chosen as California’s Fourth District winner of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition. Analise Bittle from Rio Vista High School was named as the Solano County finalist.

    “I always look forward to the Congressional Art Competition. It’s a wonderful chance for my colleagues, visitors of the Capitol, and me to admire the incredible talent of high school student-artists from our district and nation,” said Thompson. “Congratulations to Isabella Macias for being selected as this year’s winner representing California’s Fourth District, and congratulations to Analise Bittle on being named the Solano County finalist in this year’s Congressional Art Competition. Analise’s artwork stood out for its creativity and skill, and it’s a testament to the incredible talent we have in California’s Fourth District.”

    “Every year, I’m amazed by the creativity and skill these students bring to their work, and this year was no different. Thank you to all the young artists who submitted pieces and to their families and teachers for their support and guidance, and to our judges for their thoughtful consideration. I can’t wait to see Isabella’s artwork proudly displayed in the United States Capitol.”

    The winning piece, “Representation Matters” is composed of acrylic on canvas. 

    The Solano County finalist piece, “Essence”, is composed of acrylic, gouache, color pencil on canvas.

    This year’s Congressional Art Competition judges were:

    • Kristina Young, local Napa Artist
    • Marc Pandone, Professor at Solano Community College

    Each spring, Members of Congress host the Congressional Art Competition to recognize and encourage artistic talent across their districts and our nation. Since the Artistic Discovery Competition began in 1982, more than 650,000 high school students have participated.

    To enter, students submit entries to their representative’s office and panels of district artists select the winning artwork. Winners are recognized both in their district and at an annual awards ceremony in Washington, D.C. The winning works are displayed for one year in the halls of the U.S. Capitol.

    The complete list of artists recognized includes: 

    • Alivia Tucker, Lake County 2025 Finalist
    • Isabella Macias, Napa County 2025 Finalist and Winner of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition
    • Analise Bittle, Solano County 2025 Finalist
    • Lynna Xu, Sonoma County 2025 Finalist
    • Amy Shan, Yolo County 2025 Finalist

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: THOMPSON ANNOUNCES OVERALL WINNER, SONOMA COUNTY FINALIST FOR FOURTH DISTRICT’S 2025 CONGRESSIONAL ART COMPETITION

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mike Thompson Representing the 5th District of CALIFORNIA

    Napa – Sunday, Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-04) announced that Isabella Macias, a sophomore at American Canyon High School, was chosen as California’s Fourth District winner of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition. Lynna Xu from Sonoma Academy was named as the Sonoma County finalist.

    “I always look forward to the Congressional Art Competition. It’s a wonderful chance for my colleagues, visitors of the Capitol, and me to admire the incredible talent of high school student-artists from our district and nation,” said Thompson. “Congratulations to Isabella Macias for being selected as this year’s winner representing California’s Fourth District, and congratulations to Lynna Xu on being named the Sonoma County finalist in this year’s Congressional Art Competition. Lynna’s artwork stood out for its creativity and skill, and it’s a testament to the incredible talent we have in California’s Fourth District.”

    “Every year, I’m amazed by the creativity and skill these students bring to their work, and this year was no different. Thank you to all the young artists who submitted pieces and to their families and teachers for their support and guidance, and to our judges for their thoughtful consideration. I can’t wait to see Isabella’s artwork proudly displayed in the United States Capitol.”

    The winning piece, “Representation Matters” is composed of acrylic on canvas. 

    The Sonoma County finalist piece, “Flames of Hope”, is composed of acrylic on canvas.

    This year’s Congressional Art Competition judges were:

    • Kristina Young, local Napa Artist
    • Marc Pandone, Professor at Solano Community College

    Each spring, Members of Congress host the Congressional Art Competition to recognize and encourage artistic talent across their districts and our nation. Since the Artistic Discovery Competition began in 1982, more than 650,000 high school students have participated.

    To enter, students submit entries to their representative’s office and panels of district artists select the winning artwork. Winners are recognized both in their district and at an annual awards ceremony in Washington, D.C. The winning works are displayed for one year in the halls of the U.S. Capitol.

    The complete list of artists recognized includes: 

    • Alivia Tucker, Lake County 2025 Finalist
    • Isabella Macias, Napa County 2025 Finalist and Winner of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition
    • Analise Bittle, Solano County 2025 Finalist
    • Lynna Xu, Sonoma County 2025 Finalist
    • Amy Shan, Yolo County 2025 Finalist

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: THOMPSON WELCOMES HOME FOURTH DISTRICT DACA RECIPIENT DENIED ENTRY BACK INTO U.S.

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mike Thompson Representing the 5th District of CALIFORNIA

    Washington – Last week, U.S. Representative Mike Thompson (CA-04) sat down with a constituent and DACA recipient from California’s Fourth Congressional District who was denied entry back into the U.S. for weeks after a trip to Mexico due to a clerical error by U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services. The constituent, who is identified only as Jane Doe to remain anonymous, sat down with Rep. Thompson to discuss the harrowing incident and how Thompson and his team were able to intervene to bring her home. Watch the video HERE. 

    “Through no fault of her own, Jane was wrongfully denied re-entry from Mexico into the United States due to a paperwork error made by U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services. It’s sad that the federal government can make an error that causes a legal resident of the United States — in this case, my constituent — to have to miss three weeks of work, stay in a foreign country, and leave her family without their sole breadwinner for weeks. It took my office, my staff, and myself to intervene to get her home,” said Rep. Thompson. 

    “Constituent services are an important part of my job and my staff and I are dedicated to helping all of our constituents on any matters they have with the federal government.” 

    “When I was stranded in Mexico, I reached out to Congressman Thompson, him and his team listen to my story, they supported me and provided me with help to solve my situation. If not for them, I don’t think I would be here today. Thank you for everything,” said Jane Doe. 

    BACKGROUND 

    On March 26th, Jane Doe contacted Representative Thompson’s Washington, D.C. office to ask for help from the Congressman and his team. 

    Jane had traveled to Mexico legally after being granted an I-131 petition which allows a DACA recipient to leave the country and return for a justified reason. Jane filed her paperwork on time and without errors, and was granted the petition before leaving for her trip.  

    At the conclusion of her trip, Jane was denied entry onto the plane to fly home to the North Bay. Border patrol officials pointed out that the paperwork sent to Jane by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) listed the wrong dates for her return, despite Jane filing for the correct dates.  

    Thompson’s office intervened to inquire with the USCIS San Francisco office as well as Customs & Border Control. Thompson and his team worked through USCIS to have Jane’s documents reissued and coordinated to have them couriered to Jane in Mexico. She was able to fly home on Saturday, April 27th.   

    Fourth District residents who face issues with passports and visas, veterans’ benefits, IRS issues, agricultural issues, small business assistance, immigration, Medicare and Medicaid, or any other problem navigating the federal government are encouraged to contact Rep. Thompson’s nearest office for support: 

    • Napa: (707) 226-9898
    • Santa Rosa: (707) 542-7182
    • Woodland: (530) 753-3501
    • Washington: (202) 225-3311

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: THOMPSON, STEUBE FOUND BIPARTISAN NATURAL DISASTER CAUCUS

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mike Thompson Representing the 5th District of CALIFORNIA

    Washington – Today, Rep. Mike Thompson (D-CA-04) and Rep. Greg Steube (R-FL-17) announced that they have founded the bipartisan Natural Disaster Caucus. Members of the Natural Disaster Caucus are dedicated to natural disaster preparation, response, and relief. Reps. Thompson and Steube will serve as co-chairs of the caucus, which will provide resources for Members of Congress and their staff to help districts across our country prevent, prepare for, and respond to natural disasters.

    “Every community across our country is at risk of natural disasters, whether it’s wildfires, hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, or other disasters. It just makes sense that we work together to improve the ways in which we prepare for disasters, respond to them, and ultimately deliver relief to survivors,” said Thompson. “It’s great to partner with my colleague Rep. Greg Steube to establish this bipartisan caucus to continue our work preventing and responding to disasters.” 

    “Millions of Americans are impacted every year by natural disasters. When trials come, our constituents deserve to know their leaders are working together on their behalf in order to help them rebuild. I am pleased to partner with my colleagues on the Natural Disaster Caucus to advance common sense policies that will better prepare our communities for when the next natural disaster strikes,” said Steube.

    BACKGROUND 

    Natural disasters continue to impact Americans around the country. In 2024, there were 27 natural disasters in the United States, including droughts, floods, severe storms, cyclones, wildfires, and winter storms. These disasters led to over 500 deaths and incurred losses exceeding $180 billion. We must work to prepare for and respond to natural disasters to mitigate the widespread impacts. 

    Reps. Thompson and Steube founded the Natural Disaster Caucus following their successful effort to deliver disaster relief to survivors of wildfires in California’s 4th District and hurricanes in Florida’s 17th District.  

    Last Spring, Rep. Thompson and Rep. Greg Steube (FL-17) led a bipartisan group of 218 Members of Congress to successfully advance a discharge petition which forced House Speaker Mike Johnson to bring their bill, the Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act, to the House floor for a vote. The Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act supports the nearly 70,000 qualified survivors who suffered significant losses during three major federally declared California fires in 2015, 2017, and 2018 who received related settlement payments.

    At the time, the historic advancement of Rep. Thompson and Rep. Steube’s petition marked only the third time a House discharge petition had succeeded in the 21st Century. Their efforts succeeded as the Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act passed the Senate and was signed into law by President Biden at the end of 2024.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Time-honored brands in Shanghai benefit from refined departure tax refund policy

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

    Shanghai’s tax authority has revealed a shopping rush for foreigners during the May Day holiday, with vintage brands showing renewed charm.

    Official data showed the eastern Chinese city’s sales under the departure tax refund policy soared by 150 percent year-on-year, and refund amounts jumped 170 percent from May 1 to 5.

    The surge follows China’s latest revisions to its management measures for tax refunds on shopping by overseas tourists. Notably, the refund eligibility threshold has been more than halved from 500 yuan (about 69 U.S. dollars) to 200 yuan, a move that has galvanized participation from traditional food and retail sectors.

    Century-old Shanghai food brands such as Taikang Foods and Shao Wan Sheng have already registered as refund stores, while time-honored heavyweights like Cantonese cuisine shop Xinghualou, tea house Huang Long Tai, and First Foodhall, a one-stop shop for those looking for Chinese snacks and bites, are fast-tracking their entry into the program.

    “Tax refunds not only offer price advantages to global customers but also bridge our heritage brands with the inbound tourism market. We aim to convert ‘refund opportunities’ into ‘brand loyalty,’ revitalizing these century-old names,” said Lu Yanqing, an executive at Shao Wan Sheng.

    The policy’s impact is palpable in commercial hubs like Nanjing Road, a magnet for international tourists, where Jingdezhen porcelain shops saw holiday sales climb 38.7 percent. Cultural icons such as jade, silk and inkstones are also drawing foreign shoppers, with the Shanghai Silk Department Store Co., Ltd. generating 120,000 yuan in tax-refund sales via 30 transactions since the beginning of the year.

    By blending convenience with cultural appeal, the policy is redefining “Chinese aesthetics” as a portable global commodity.

    Efforts to expand refund-enabled outlets have transformed Nanjing Road into a tax-free shopping corridor, now home to 45 refund stores spanning food, apparel, healthcare, eyewear, jewelry and art. Among them are landmarks like Caitongdetang Pharmacy, Lao Feng Xiang Jewelry, and Duoyunxuan auction house, alongside vintage retailers such as New World City and Shanghai No.1 Department Store.

    In Hongkou District, high-end qipao brand Manloulan has joined the initiative, leveraging the policy to fuse Shanghai’s cultural heritage with global tastes.

    “Our Shanghai-style qipao collections integrate intangible cultural craftsmanship with international aesthetics, resonating strongly with overseas clients. Since becoming a refund store, foreign customers now account for 40 percent of our traffic, partially driving a 35-percent sales growth in first quarter,” shared Qiu Liming, president of the brand.

    Digital upgrades further enhance the experience: shoppers can pre-fill refund forms by scanning QR codes, while electronic invoices can be integrated into the departure tax refund system automatically, slashing the processing time.

    “This efficiency boosts Shanghai’s position as a leader in tourist-friendly tax refund services,” noted Zhang Xiaochun, Manloulan’s financial manager.

    “We’ll continue refining services to ensure overseas travelers benefit from tax refunds and feel the vibrancy of China’s consumer market,” a Shanghai tax bureau official said. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: A glimpse of low-altitude economy development across China

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

    A drone developed by Phoenix Wings, a cargo Unmaned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) company under China’s express delivery giant SF Group, is pictured at the launching ceremony of the first batch of low-altitude economy (LAE) regulatory sandbox pilot projects held in Hong Kong, south China, March 20, 2025. As an important driving force of new economic momentum, the low-altitude economy is viewed by many as a key strategic emerging industry.

    China has witnessed rapid technological and industrial development in the low-altitude economy in recent years, and the sky below 1,000 meters across the country is becoming more and more “busy”.

    At present, the country’s major information and communication companies, as well as power battery, motor and other companies are actively participating in the low-altitude economy, and innovative elements in various fields are gathering in the low-altitude industries. (Xinhua/Chen Duo)

    1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   >  

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Equal Pay Amendment Act

    Source: Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment MBIE (2)

    The Government is committed to maintaining a process to raise and resolve pay equity claims and these changes will ensure the process is workable and sustainable.

    The changes to the Equal Pay Act through the Equal Pay Amendment Act include a better process to raise and resolve claims of sex-based undervaluation in the pay of female-dominated work when a pay equity claim is made. 

    The process will ensure parties can more confidently assess whether there is sex-based undervaluation in the pay of female-dominated work.

    While these changes will mean all current pay equity claims will be discontinued, new claims can be raised under the amended Act if they meet the new requirements. Review clauses in existing settlements will become unenforceable.

    Read more about the changes on the MBIE website:

    Equal Pay Amendment Act

    Read the Minister’s announcement from earlier this month:

    Changes to improve pay equity process(external link)  — Beehive.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: Best Loans For Bad Credit: Upstart’s Guaranteed Personal Loans with No Credit Needed for Scores Below 580

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN CARLOS, Calif., May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — When you’re struggling with bad credit, it can feel like your financial options are extremely limited. The thought of applying for a loan can be intimidating, especially when so many lending institutions seem to turn you down because of your credit history. However, having a bad credit score doesn’t mean you’re out of options.

    In fact, there are specialized loans designed specifically for individuals in situations like yours. These loans can help you get the funds you need for medical emergencies, debt consolidation, home improvements, or even a new car.

    Click here to apply for a personal loan for bad credit and explore your options now!

    Many lenders now offer flexible terms and more accessible criteria to help those with less-than-perfect credit scores. With careful research, you can find trustworthy lenders that provide practical solutions without falling into high-interest traps or predatory lending practices.

    The key is knowing where to look, and understanding the features of the best loans for bad credit. These loans are not necessarily as bad as they may sound; in fact, many of them come with transparent terms, reasonable rates, and, importantly, a chance for you to rebuild your credit over time.

    In this article, we’ll explore the best loans for bad credit in 2025. We’ll break down what makes a loan suitable, how to apply for one, and which lender we recommend based on thorough research.

    Upstart – Our No. 1 Pick for Bad Credit Loans

    After reviewing a wide range of lenders that cater to bad credit borrowers, Upstart stands out as the best choice. Upstart is an innovative online lender that uses AI to evaluate applicants, making it more accessible for people with low credit scores or limited credit histories.

    Unlike traditional lenders, Upstart doesn’t solely rely on your credit score. Instead, it considers additional factors such as your education, employment, and income to assess your loan eligibility.

    While many traditional lenders would reject you based solely on your credit score, Upstart takes a more holistic approach. It offers flexibility and faster approval processes, making it our top pick for individuals looking for loans despite having a bad credit score.

    Click here to apply with Upstart—no credit score requirement and fast approval!

    Loan Amounts, APR Range, and Repayment Terms

    Upstart offers personal loans ranging from $1,000 to $50,000, with APRs varying between 6.70% and 35.99% depending on the borrower’s creditworthiness and the loan terms. These terms are competitive, and the rates are generally lower than many other bad credit loan providers, although higher than standard loans for those with excellent credit.

    Upstart’s repayment terms are fixed at 36 or 60 months. While this may seem limited compared to lenders offering a broader range of terms, it allows borrowers to plan their repayments over manageable time periods. This is particularly helpful for individuals looking for a structured and predictable payment schedule.

    Click here to compare loan terms and find the best rate for you now!

    Why It’s the Top Pick

    There are several reasons why Upstart has earned the top spot for best loans for bad credit in 2025:

    1. Lower Credit Score Requirements: Upstart accepts borrowers with credit scores as low as 300. For college students or recent graduates, there’s no credit score requirement at all.
    2. AI-Driven Loan Decisions: The platform’s AI technology considers multiple factors beyond just credit score, such as education, employment, and income, improving the chances of approval for those with bad credit or thin credit files.
    3. Fast Funding: Upstart provides funds as soon as the next business day after approval, which is ideal for borrowers who need fast access to cash.
    4. No Prepayment Penalty: Borrowers can repay their loans early without incurring any penalties, which is a significant advantage for those looking to reduce the interest paid over the life of the loan.

    Click here for fast, flexible funding—apply now to get the loan you need with no credit score requirement!

    What Is a Bad Credit Score?

    A bad credit score typically refers to a credit score below 580. Scores in the 580-669 range are considered “fair” credit, and scores below 580 are considered poor. A bad credit score indicates that the borrower has a history of financial difficulties, such as missed payments, defaults, or high debt-to-income ratios—all factors that affect the types of loans available to you.

    Understanding your credit score and how it impacts your loan options is key when searching for the best loans for bad credit.

    Credit scores are determined by several factors:

    • Payment History: Whether you’ve paid your bills on time.
    • Credit Utilization: The percentage of your available credit you are using.
    • Length of Credit History: The age of your credit accounts.
    • Recent Inquiries: How often you’ve applied for new credit.
    • Types of Credit Used: The variety of credit accounts you hold.

    While a bad credit score can significantly affect your ability to get approved for loans from traditional lenders, platforms like Upstart are more flexible and are willing to consider other factors beyond just your score.

    Example Scenario: Who This Is Best For

    Consider Sara, who has a credit score of 550 due to missed payments on her credit cards in the past. She needs $8,000 to cover medical bills after a sudden emergency. Sara has been rejected by her bank and a few other lenders due to her credit history.

    However, with Upstart, she was able to complete a simple online application, was matched with a lender that offered her a 36-month loan with an APR of 18.99%, and received the funds the same day. By making timely payments, Sara is not only able to take care of her medical bills but is also improving her credit score.

    What Are Bad Credit Loans?

    Bad credit loans are financial products designed to help individuals with poor credit histories access funds when needed. Traditional banks and financial institutions typically rely heavily on your credit score to approve loans, but bad credit loans offer a more inclusive approach.

    These loans may come with higher interest rates due to the risk involved, but they provide an opportunity for borrowers to obtain financial assistance and rebuild their credit.

    There are several types of bad credit loans:

    • Personal Loans: Unsecured loans typically offered by online lenders, which can be used for various purposes such as consolidating debt or covering emergency expenses.
    • Secured Loans: Loans that require collateral, such as a car, home, or savings account, to secure the loan. These loans may offer lower interest rates compared to unsecured loans.
    • Payday Loans: Short-term loans often offered by payday lenders. These loans can have extremely high-interest rates and should be avoided unless absolutely necessary.
    • Peer-to-Peer Loans: Loans that are funded by individuals rather than traditional financial institutions. These loans may come with more flexible terms and lower interest rates.

    Eligibility & Application Process to Get a Loan with Bad Credit

    One of the significant advantages of applying for a loan with Upstart is its inclusive eligibility criteria. Unlike traditional lenders, Upstart doesn’t require a high credit score or an extensive financial history.

    This makes the application process more accessible for borrowers who may have been rejected by other financial institutions due to bad credit or a thin credit file.

    Click here to start your application and get matched with the best loan offers in minutes!

    Minimum Credit Score

    Upstart is uniquely flexible when it comes to credit score requirements. There is no official minimum credit score to apply for a loan. While Upstart does consider your credit history, it doesn’t make it the sole deciding factor. This is especially beneficial for borrowers who may have a credit score in the lower range or no credit history at all.

    Upstart uses an innovative AI-driven model that considers other important factors, such as income, employment history, education, and debt-to-income ratio. These factors are weighed alongside your credit score to assess your ability to repay the loan, which allows for higher approval rates and more tailored loan offers.

    This broader approach to evaluating loan applications means that borrowers with bad or limited credit histories have a real opportunity to secure the funds they need without the pressure of needing to “fix” their credit first.

    Required Documents

    The application process with Upstart is entirely digital and streamlined for ease. There’s no need for you to visit a branch or upload numerous documents. The entire process can be completed online in just a few minutes. You will need to provide basic information, which typically includes:

    • Full name and contact details
    • Proof of income or employment (self-reported is acceptable)
    • Bank account details (for loan disbursement)
    • Valid identification (to verify your identity)

    In some cases, Upstart may request additional documentation or verification, but this is typically done electronically after the initial application is processed. The platform strives to make the process as hassle-free as possible, ensuring you can apply and potentially receive approval without unnecessary delays.

    Approval Time and Disbursement

    One of the standout features of Upstart is its speed. After submitting your short application, the approval process is often instant, meaning you’ll know within minutes whether you’ve been approved for a loan.

    If you’re approved and matched with a lender, funds are typically disbursed the same day, and in many cases, as quickly as within 1 business day. For borrowers facing urgent financial needs, such as medical bills or car repairs, this fast turnaround is a game-changer.

    Overall, Upstart’s streamlined and efficient application process, along with quick approval and disbursement times, makes it an excellent choice for individuals who need access to funds without the long waiting periods associated with traditional lending methods.

    Click here to apply and get your loan funds within 24 hours!

    How to Apply Online

    Applying for a loan with Upstart is simple:

    1. Visit the Upstart website and select your loan amount.
    2. Fill out the online application with basic personal and financial details.
    3. Review your loan offer, including APR, terms, and repayment schedule.
    4. Accept the loan terms and sign the agreement.
    5. Receive your funds directly into your bank account.

    Pros and Cons

    Pros:

    • Low credit score requirement (as low as 300)
    • AI-driven loan approvals that consider factors beyond credit score
    • Fast approval and funding (as quickly as 1 business day)
    • No prepayment penalties
    • Flexible loan amounts ranging from $1,000 to $50,000

    Cons:

    • Origination fees may be as high as 12%, depending on your credit history
    • Limited repayment terms (only 36 or 60 months)
    • No cosigner option available for better rates

    Why It’s Hard to Get Loans with Bad Credit

    Securing a loan with bad credit is challenging primarily because traditional lenders, such as banks, rely heavily on credit scores to assess the risk of lending money. A low credit score signals to lenders that you have a history of financial instability, such as missed payments, defaults, or high debt-to-income ratios.

    As a result, these lenders consider you a high-risk borrower, which leads to either outright loan rejection or approval under unfavorable terms, such as higher interest rates, shorter repayment periods, and substantial fees. This makes it difficult for individuals with bad credit to access loans that offer fair terms.

    Moreover, even when loans are available, they often come with exorbitant interest rates and fees, making it hard to pay off the loan and ultimately worsening the borrower’s financial situation. Payday loans, for example, offer quick access to cash but often come with annual percentage rates (APRs) that can exceed 400%.

    These high rates trap borrowers in a cycle of debt, forcing them to take out additional loans to repay the original one. Unfortunately, many people with bad credit are stuck in this cycle, as traditional financial institutions continue to prioritize low-risk applicants with good credit scores, leaving those with poor credit without accessible and affordable loan options.

    Fortunately, platforms like Upstart are challenging this model by offering more inclusive loan products that consider factors beyond just credit scores, such as education, employment, and income.

    This innovative approach not only helps borrowers with bad credit gain access to loans but also provides a fairer lending process that avoids the pitfalls of predatory lending. By focusing on a broader range of eligibility criteria, Upstart makes it easier for individuals with bad credit to secure a loan without being punished by high fees or interest rates.

    Click here to see your personalized loan options with Upstart—Get approved with no credit score requirement!

    What to Look for in a Bad Credit Loan

    When applying for a loan with bad credit, it’s important to focus on these key features to ensure you’re getting one of the best loans for bad credit:

    Fair Interest Rates

    Look for loans with reasonable interest rates, ideally below 36% APR, to avoid predatory lending. High rates can make it harder to pay off your debt and lead to financial stress. Compare APRs from multiple lenders to find the best deal.

    No Prepayment Penalties

    Choose a loan that doesn’t penalize you for paying off the loan early. No prepayment penalties give you the flexibility to pay down your debt faster and save on interest if you come into extra money.

    Soft Credit Checks

    Look for lenders that offer soft credit checks during the prequalification process. This won’t affect your credit score and allows you to compare loan offers without committing or harming your score.

    Fast Disbursement

    Opt for loans that provide quick funding, ideally within one business day. Fast disbursement is crucial for handling urgent expenses like medical bills or car repairs.

    Clear Terms

    Ensure the loan terms are transparent with no hidden fees. Reputable lenders will clearly outline the APR, repayment schedule, and any associated costs, allowing you to make an informed decision.

    By focusing on these features, you can secure a loan that fits your financial needs without falling into a cycle of debt.

    Ready to get started? Apply now with Upstart and get fast, flexible loan options with no hard credit check!

    How to Find Personal Loans for Bad Credit

    To increase your chances of securing a personal loan with bad credit, follow these steps:

    1. Know your credit score
    2. Research lenders who specialize in bad credit loans
    3. Prequalify with soft credit checks
    4. Compare APRs and fees
    5. Understand terms and conditions
    6. Be ready to offer collateral if necessary
    7. Avoid payday lenders
    8. Consider a co-signer for better rates

    Where to Find Bad Credit Loans

    There are several types of lenders that offer bad credit loans:

    1. Online Lenders: Platforms like Upstart offer fast, convenient loan applications.
    2. Credit Unions: Often provide lower rates for members with bad credit.
    3. Peer-to-Peer Lending: Borrowers can get funds directly from individual investors.
    4. Community Banks: Smaller, local banks may have more flexible lending terms.
    5. Nonprofit Lenders: Some nonprofit organizations offer low-interest loans to those with bad credit.

    FAQs About Bad Credit Loans

    Q: Is it possible to get a $3,000 loan with bad credit?
    Yes, many online lenders, like Upstart, can help you secure a $3,000 loan despite bad credit.

    Q: Can I get a loan with a 500 credit score?
    Yes, lenders like Upstart still consider borrowers with scores around 500.

    Q: Who can give me money right now?
    If you need immediate funding, online lenders like Upstart can approve your loan and disburse funds within one business day.

    In Conclusion: The Best Loans for Bad Credit in 2025

    For individuals with bad credit seeking flexibility, quick funding, and a streamlined approval process, Upstart presents a strong option. Whether you need to consolidate debt, cover medical expenses, or manage an emergency, Upstart’s AI-powered platform connects borrowers with lenders offering competitive rates and suitable loan terms—ideal features to look for when searching for the best loans for bad credit.

    For example, if your credit score is around 550 and you’re seeking a larger loan, Upstart’s unique approach could help match you with lenders that understand your financial situation and offer more accessible terms.

    Ultimately, Upstart distinguishes itself as one of the best loans for bad credit, offering a quicker approval process, fairer rates, and a chance to improve your financial standing through responsible borrowing. For those struggling with bad credit, exploring platforms that prioritize more than just your credit score could open doors to better loan opportunities, making Upstart a noteworthy option to consider in 2025.

    Check your loan options today and see how you can get the funds you need. Apply now for a quick and easy process.

    Project name: Upstart
    Full Company address: Upstart Operations Dept.
    P.O. Box 1503
    San Carlos, CA 94070
    Company website: https://www.upstart.com/
    Postal code: 94070
    Contact person: Max Fraser |
    Email: support@upstart.com

    Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only. All loan terms, interest rates, and approval criteria mentioned are subject to change and may vary based on individual circumstances. Upstart and other lenders featured may have different eligibility requirements and terms. Always review the full terms and conditions before applying for any loan. We recommend conducting your own research and consulting with a financial advisor to ensure you are making the best decision for your personal financial situation. Loan approvals, rates, and disbursements are not guaranteed and depend on the lender’s assessment of your application.

    Photos accompanying this announcement is available are:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4d76d325-baad-4314-825d-6171fa9491b2

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/79f17a59-e4d8-4160-8e10-44d2e983deb4

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UN Secretary-General – Remarks to the Ministerial Meeting on the Future of Peacekeeping

    Source: United Nations – Peacekeeping

    [Bilingual, as delivered]

    Dear Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Defence Affairs of the Federal Republic of Germany, our generous hosts.

    Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,

    My thanks to Germany for bringing us together at this consequential moment.

    This year marks the 80th anniversary of the United Nations.

    Our organization was founded on the conviction that peace is possible if we work as one united human family.

    That is what our peace operations are about. 

    From preventive diplomacy to peacekeeping…

    From negotiating ceasefires to helping to implement them…

    From electoral support and observer missions to de-mining operations and protection of civilians…

    To the focus of today’s Ministerial meeting — peacekeeping.

    Excellencies,

    UN Blue Helmets are the most globally recognized symbol of the world’s ability to come together to help countries move from conflict to peace.

    Peacekeepers hail from every corner of the world.

    But they are united in their commitment to peace.

    As we meet today, UN peacekeepers are hard at work helping to ensure that ceasefires are respected…

    Protecting civilians caught in the line of fire…

    Helping provide the conditions for lifesaving aid to flow to those in need…

    And laying the foundations for long-term recovery.

    In trouble spots around the world, Blue Helmets can mean the difference between life and death.

    And they are also a clear demonstration of the power of multilateral action to maintain, achieve and sustain peace.

    There is a long list of countries that have achieved durable peace with the support of UN Peacekeeping — including Cambodia, Cote d’Ivoire, El Salvador, Liberia, Namibia, Mozambique, Sierra Leone and Timor Leste.  

    Many of these countries now themselves contribute troops. 

    At the same time, we recognize that peace comes at a price.

    Through the decades, 4,400 peacekeepers have fallen in the line of duty.

    Their service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.  

    Please join me in a moment of silence to honour all those who lost their lives in the pursuit of peace.

    [MOMENT OF SILENCE]

    Thank you.

    Excellencies,

    We owe it to peacekeepers — and the populations they protect — to continue strengthening their ability to answer this call to peace.

    And to do so in the face of daunting challenges.

    Complex, intertwined and frequently borderless conflicts…

    Growing polarization and division around the globe…

    Targeting of peacekeepers through deadly misinformation spreading through social media…

    Terrorism and transnational crime, which find fertile ground in instability…

    The ongoing climate crisis that is exacerbating conflict while leaving more of the planet uninhabitable…

    All the continued trampling of international law and international humanitarian law.

    As a result, we are now facing the highest number of conflicts since the foundation of the United Nations, and record numbers of people fleeing across borders in search of safety and refuge.

    We must recognize that peacekeeping operations are only as effective as the mandates directing them, and can struggle in contexts where political support and clearly defined outcomes and solutions are absent or elusive.

    Meanwhile, we see increasing differences of views around how peacekeeping operations should work, under what circumstances, with what mandates they should be deployed, and for how long.

    And we face dramatic financial constraints across the board.

    We’ve worked to adapt in the face of these challenges.

    But we need to do more.

    Today, I want to highlight three areas of focus.

    First — help us shape peacekeeping operations that are fit for the future.     

    The Pact for the Future called for a Review of Peace Operations — including peacekeeping.

    The review will examine how we can make peacekeeping operations more adaptable, flexible and resilient — while recognizing the limitations in situations where there is little or no peace to keep.

    It will also aim to critically examine the tools we have today and propose concrete recommendations to make them fit for the future.  

    Through this review, we must ensure that the United Nations is prepared to deploy peace operations tailored to each individual conflict, while preparing for the challenges of tomorrow.

    We can draw inspiration from our UNIFIL operation, which recently developed an adaptation plan to keep peace along the Blue Line, and ensure lifesaving aid can flow to civilians in southern Lebanon.

    In the Central African Republic, we see MINUSCA protecting civilians and assisting the government to extend its reach beyond the capital where people are in desperate need. 

    In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, despite ongoing fighting, UN Peacekeepers remain in the field, protecting vulnerable populations. 

    We’re also seeking efficiencies through partnerships — from Member States to regional and sub-regional organizations, to local communities.

    Most important among them is our strong partnership with the African Union.

    Security Council resolution 2719 has lifted this partnership to a new level as we work to establish peace enforcement missions under the AU’s responsibility, supported by the United Nations through assessed contributions.

    Today, the Review of Peace Operations will need to be informed — and inspired — by your views.

    Member States make peacekeeping possible.

    They must lead the way as we strengthen it for the future.

    Second — as we make our operations more adaptable and flexible, we need to do the same in the use of our resources.

    Peace operations can only succeed when backed by robust mandates and clear, predictable and sustained contributions, both financial and logistical. 

    But these are tough times for the financing of our work across the board.

    Peacekeeping is no exception.

    It is crucial that we are able to use the increasingly limited resources we have — and use them well.

    That requires more flexible rules and processes.

    This means updating our approach to abolishing or establishing positions, and working with troop-contributing countries to ensure we can deliver.

    It means working with Member States and the UN Security Council to ensure that any new mandates are prioritized and achievable with the resources available and with a clear exit strategy.

    And it means driving efficiencies and improvements across our work in light of the continued funding challenges we face.

    Our Review of Peace Operations will work hand-in-hand with our UN80 initiative, to ensure we maximize efficiencies wherever possible, supported at every step by Member States.

    We look forward to your governments’ support and ideas as we tackle these challenges together.

    Troisièmement, nous avons besoin de votre soutien politique – qui passe notamment par les engagements que vous prendrez demain.

    Sans solution politique, les opérations de paix sont vouées à l’échec.

    Ensemble, nous devons rallier un soutien accru en faveur des solutions politiques pour toutes les missions de maintien de la paix.

    Faire avancer ces solutions politiques nécessite d’avoir les moyens nécessaires pour mener à bien nos opérations – notamment un soutien politique unifié de la part des États Membres, un leadership fort, des troupes bien préparées, du matériel et des technologies.

    Ces éléments peuvent renforcer nos opérations et améliorer sensiblement la vie des gens.

    Cela nécessite aussi un soutien de tous les États membres pour assurer la sécurité des Casques bleus sur le terrain, ainsi que le plein respect des privilèges et immunités pertinentes de notre Organisation et de son personnel.

    Nous sommes profondément reconnaissants de votre soutien et des contributions concrètes que nombre d’entre vous annonceront demain.

    Excellences,

    Le budget des opérations de la paix des Nations Unies, réparti entre les 193 États Membres, ne représente qu’une infime partie des dépenses militaires mondiales – environ 0,5 %. Ces opérations demeurent donc l’un des moyens les plus efficaces et les plus économiques de consolider la paix et la sécurité internationales.

    Toutefois, leur force est tributaire de l’engagement des États Membres à leur égard.

    Malheureusement, les opérations de maintien de la paix sont soumises a un sérieux problème de liquidité. Il est absolument essentiel que tous les Etats Membres respectent leurs obligations financières en payant les contributions intégralement et dans les temps.

    Aujourd’hui plus que jamais, le monde a besoin de l’ONU.

    Et l’ONU a besoin que les opérations de maintien de la paix disposent de tous les moyens nécessaires pour faire face aux réalités d’aujourd’hui et relever les défis de demain.

    Ensemble, faisons en sorte que les opérations de maintien de la paix de l’ONU répondent aux défis du moment, aux attentes des États Membres, et aux besoins légitimes de nos soldates et soldats de la paix – et des personnes à qui ils viennent en aide.

    Je vous remercie.

    Full translation in English.

    Full translation in French.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • Brazilian researcher who helped country’s grain boom wins World Food Prize

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Brazilian microbiologist Mariangela Hungria, whose research has helped farmers in the country sharply boost grain production, has been named the 2025 World Food Prize Laureate, the Iowa-based foundation organizing the prize said on Tuesday.

    Hungria has been a researcher for more than 40 years at Brazil’s state-run agricultural center Embrapa, where she works on seeds and soil treatments that enable plants to source nutrients through soil bacteria, a particularly important development for soybean crops.

    Her work helped Brazil increase soybean production from around 15 million metric tons in the 1980s to more than 170 million tons today, making the country the world’s largest producer and exporter of the commodity.

    “I was always interested in making viable the use of biological materials in commercial agriculture,” Hungria told Reuters.

    Good soybean growth requires a lot of nitrogen for the plant, but relying on nitrogen-based chemical fertilizers was expensive for Brazilian farmers and meant the country was heavily dependent on imported fertilizers, she said.

    Hungria isolated strains of a soil bacteria named rhizobia and developed a way to inoculate it in the soybean seeds used in Brazil. The strains helped the soy plants extract more nitrogen from the soil, boosting their growth.

    The solution has since become widespread and is used in more than 40 million hectares of Brazil’s roughly 48 million hectares of soy plantations.

    Hungria also developed other biological solutions, including using strains of Azospirillum brasilense bacteria to boost the size of roots on crops such as corn, allowing the plants to reach deeper for humidity or nutrients.

    The use of biological products in agriculture has grown quickly in recent years, as consumers increasingly demand food produced with fewer chemicals.

    The researcher will receive $500,000 for being named a Laureate. The World Food Prize was created by Norman E. Borlaug, an American agronomist who developed solutions to increase agricultural production.

    (Reuters)

  • PM Modi urges intensified, targeted action to achieve a TB-free India

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Emphasizing the urgency of focused and accelerated efforts to eliminate tuberculosis (TB), Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a high-level review meeting on the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP) at his official residence. He highlighted the importance of evaluating the status and progress of the NTEP, along with the outcomes of the recently concluded 100-Day TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan.

    The Prime Minister reiterated India’s resolve to eliminate the disease. He emphasized the need to replicate successful interventions on a national scale, calling the campaign a model of Jan Bhagidari (people’s participation) that should be further accelerated.

    During the 100-day campaign, a total of 12.97 crore vulnerable individuals were screened across high-focus districts, leading to the detection of 7.19 lakh TB cases, including 2.85 lakh asymptomatic cases. Over 1 lakh new Ni-kshay Mitras — voluntary supporters of TB patients — joined the initiative, contributing to its community-driven approach.

    Prime Minister Modi underscored the importance of analysing TB trends by geography (urban vs rural) and occupation, particularly among workers in high-risk sectors such as construction, mining, and textiles. He encouraged leveraging technology to enhance engagement between Ni-kshay Mitras and TB patients through interactive tools to boost awareness and treatment adherence.

    Highlighting the curability of TB with consistent treatment, the Prime Minister called for reducing fear and increasing public awareness. He stressed cleanliness and personal outreach as key components in eliminating the disease.

    The review also acknowledged the positive findings from the WHO Global TB Report 2024, which reported an 18% decline in TB incidence and a 21% drop in TB-related mortality in India between 2015 and 2023 — a pace double the global average. Treatment coverage has also improved to 85%, reflecting the growing reach of the programme.

    Infrastructure advancements were also reviewed, including the expansion of the TB diagnostic network to 8,540 NAAT labs and 87 culture and drug susceptibility labs. Over 26,700 X-ray units, including 500 AI-enabled handheld devices, are now operational, with an additional 1,000 in the pipeline.

    The Prime Minister was also briefed on several new initiatives, such as AI-powered X-ray screening, shortened drug-resistant TB treatment regimens, indigenous molecular diagnostics, and nutrition-focused interventions. Screening in high-density areas like mines, tea gardens, construction sites, and urban slums has also been intensified.

    Under the Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana, Rs. 1,000 monthly incentives were provided in 2024 to enhance nutrition among TB patients, benefitting over 1.28 crore patients since 2018. Additionally, 29.4 lakh food baskets have been distributed by 2.55 lakh Ni-kshay Mitras.

    Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda and senior officials were present at the meeting.

  • MIL-OSI USA: Representatives Cohen, Titus and Scholten Introduce Bill to Reauthorize the Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail Program

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09)

    WASHINGTON – Representatives Steve Cohen (TN-9), a senior member of the Transportation and Infrastructure (T&I) Committee and a passionate advocate of passenger rail service; Dina Titus (NV-1), the Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines and Hazardous Materials, and Hillary Scholten (MI-3), a member of the T&I Committee, today introduced a bill to reauthorize the Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail (FSP) Program through Fiscal Year 2031. Currently, authorization for FSP is set to expire at the end of Fiscal Year 2026.

    The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) funded the FSP to provide competitive grants for improving existing rail corridors and developing emerging corridors. Through December of 2024, $25.7 billion in FSP grants have been awarded for crucial repairs, infrastructure improvements and new intercity rail services across the country.

    Congressman Cohen made the following statement:

    “As a longtime advocate of passenger rail service, I urge my colleagues to support the federal-state partnership that is preparing the United States for a surge in rail travel. I am looking forward to one day taking Amtrak along the recently identified Memphis-Nashville-Chattanooga-Atlanta corridor that is being funded by a Corridor ID grant and, eventually, along a route linking Memphis to Little Rock and beyond. Passenger rail is the future, and this bill ensures its ongoing support.”

    Congresswoman Titus made the following statement:

    “Funding from the Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail grant program is helping Brightline West bring high speed rail to Las Vegas. We need to reauthorize this critical program to improve and bring passenger rail service to more communities across the United States. Expanding service will make traveling safer and more enjoyable and be a boon to local economies.”

    Congresswoman Scholten made the following statement:

    “Connecting people to jobs, schools, and families through safe and reliable rail services are one of the smartest investments we can make to support our economy and our environment. In Michigan, we’ve already seen how programs like the Federal-State Partnership and Corridor ID help improve passenger rail services and help boost local economies. I’m proud to support this reauthorization so we can keep moving forward with better rail options for communities across the country.”

    The bill would reauthorize both the FSP program and the Corridor ID program with $7.5 billion between Fiscal Years 2027 and 2031.

    The bill is endorsed by the following organizations: Rail Passengers Association, SMART Transportation Division, Southern Rail Commission (SRC), Transportation for America (T4A)

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Cohen’s Statement on the Acquittal of Former Memphis Police Officers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09)

    WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) noted the acquittal of three former Memphis police officers charged in the beating death of Tyre Nichols this afternoon and made the following statement:

    “I am disappointed with the verdicts. But as an attorney, I understand the role of a jury in our system of justice and the verdicts must be respected. These former officers were found guilty in federal court so justice will be done.”

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Cohen Announces Aging Research Grant to St. Jude

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09)

    WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) today announced that St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital will receive a grant of $913,225 to the study the Proteogenomics of Splicing Proteinopathies in Neurodegeneration from the National Institute on Aging.

    Congressman Cohen made the following statement:

    “I am always pleased to see one of our National Institutes of Health supporting research at our premier children’s research hospital. The study is likely to yield insights that will benefit both the old and young, and improve health outcomes.”

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Cohen Welcomes Choice of First American Pope

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09)

    WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) today welcomed the choice of Cardinal Robert Prevost of Chicago as the first American pope to be known as Leo XIV, and made the following statement:

    “I am very pleased to welcome the first American pope in history, a man from Chicago, my mother’s hometown. He has the potential to follow in Francis’ footsteps, caring for the sick, the poor and the disabled. I hope to see him visit Memphis. It was Cardinal Archbishop Samuel Stritch of Chicago who told Danny Thomas to build St. Jude in Memphis.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Cohen Announces $18.2 Million in Federal Transit Administration Funding for Tri-State Memphis Urban Area

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09)

    WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9), a senior member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, today announced that the Memphis-Arkansas-Mississippi urban area will receive $18,246,472 in the current fiscal year from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA).

    The state of Tennessee will receive $132,363,425 in funding through FTA formula programs statewide.

    Congressman Cohen made the following statement:

    “Many residents of the 9th Congressional District rely on public transit to get to work, go shopping or visit doctors and a reliable source of funding guarantees their continued ability to do so.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Foster Leads over 100 Colleagues in Demanding Answers on National Science Foundation Funding Freeze

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bill Foster (11th District of Illinois)

    Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL), Congress’ only PhD physicist, led 112 Members of Congress in expressing their concern with the Trump Administration’s directive for the National Science Foundation to freeze all grant funding.

    In a letter to President Trump, the Members wrote:

    “The NSF has, for decades, been a cornerstone of American innovation, funding groundbreaking research that has led to advancements in medical imaging, artificial intelligence, geographic information systems, and numerous other fields. Central to the NSF’s success has been its commitment to a merit-based, peer-reviewed grant process, ensuring that funding decisions are made based on scientific excellence and potential impact, free from political or ideological influence.

    “Changes to this commitment have far-reaching implications. They not only disrupt ongoing research but also erode the confidence of the scientific community in the federal funding apparatus. Moreover, in an era of intense global competition, particularly with nations like China investing heavily in science and technology, these actions risk ceding our leadership position and compromising our ability to address critical challenges.”

    A full copy of the letter can be found here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –