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  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Britain’s ban on lead ammunition could save tens of thousands of birds from poisoning

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Deborah Pain, Visiting Academic, University of Cambridge; Honorary Professor, University of East Anglia, University of Cambridge

    CHUYKO SERGEY/Shutterstock

    The UK’s environment minister Emma Hardy has announced a ban on toxic lead ammunition to protect Britain’s countryside. This ban includes the sale and use for hunting of both lead shotgun ammunition (each cartridge of which contains hundreds of small lead pellets called “shot”), used mainly for hunting small game animals like gamebirds, and large calibre lead bullets, used for hunting large game animals like deer.

    This is great news for Britain’s birds because the ban will eventually prevent the deaths and suffering of the vast numbers affected by lead poisoning each year after ingesting lead from ammunition.

    Most shot fired do not hit their targets and thousands of tonnes of lead shot are scattered in the environment every year.

    Waterbirds and land-based gamebirds mistakenly eat these because they look like food or the grit they ingest to help grind up their food. Shot are retained in their gizzards (a muscular part of the stomach), ground up, and the lead dissolved and absorbed into the bloodstream.

    Lead poisoning kills an estimated 50,000-100,000 waterbirds annually in the UK. These birds suffer considerably before they die. Many more birds are poisoned, but not killed.

    While this additional “sublethal” poisoning does not kill birds directly, they may be more likely to die of other causes. This is because lead poisoning affects the immune system and behaviour.

    Gamebirds will no longer be able to be killed using lead shot under a new ban in Britain.
    AdamEdwards/Shutterstock

    The use of lead shot for hunting waterfowl and over certain wetlands is already banned in England and Wales. It is also banned for shooting over all wetlands in Scotland.

    However, compliance with the regulations in England is only about 30%, and is also low in Scotland, although has not been measured in Wales. This new comprehensive ban should dramatically improve the situation across all habitats throughout Britain.

    Birds of prey, including eagles, common buzzards and red kites ingest lead fragments when they scavenge flesh from animals killed by lead ammunition, or prey on animals wounded by lead ammunition. The acidic conditions in their stomachs help dissolve the lead.

    Our research shows that while fewer birds of prey than waterbirds are estimated to die of lead poisoning, it can have a far greater effect on their populations, especially for species that first breed at a later age, produce fewer young, and would otherwise have higher annual adult survival rates.

    The lead ban will benefit birds that live in Britain permanently or for just part of the year. But it will not entirely solve the problem for migratory species. If lead shot continues to be used elsewhere, these species may still ingest it on migration or on their breeding or wintering grounds.

    Beyond borders

    To protect all species, lead ammunition needs to be replaced by non-lead alternatives everywhere. The use of lead shot is already banned in many wetlands globally. Across the EU, a ban on the use of lead shot in or close to wetlands came into force in February 2023.

    Denmark was the first country to ban lead ammunition across all habitats. In 1996, it banned the use of lead shot and in April 2024, it banned lead bullets. Our research shows that the lead shot ban in Denmark has been very effective, with good levels of compliance.

    Now, Britain is set to become the second country to ban most uses of lead ammunition. This has been made possible by the increasing availability of safe, efficient and affordable non-lead ammunition alternatives, primarily steel shot and copper bullets.

    In February 2025, the European Commission published a draft regulation banning most uses of lead ammunition and fishing weights. This awaits approval under EU processes – if successful, it will represent a major step forward.

    Beyond birds

    Birds are particularly susceptible to the effects of ingested lead from ammunition due to their muscular gizzards and stomach acidity. But it also puts the health of many other animals at risk, including pets and people.

    In the UK, we found average lead concentrations in raw pheasant dog food from three suppliers to be tens of times the legal maximum residue limit for lead in animal feed.

    The UK government based its decision to ban lead ammunition on a report by the Health and Safety Executive which highlighted risks to the health of young children and women of pregnancy age if they frequently eat meat from game hunted with lead ammunition. Children’s developing nervous systems are particularly sensitive to the effects of lead.

    We recently urged the EU’s committee of member states for Reach (the chemicals regulation), the European parliament and council to fully support the European Commission’s proposal to restrict lead ammunition.

    We also encouraged the European Food Safety Authority to recommend that the European Commission set a legal maximum level for lead in game meat marketed for human consumption. This maximum level should be similar to the one already set for meat from most farmed animals.

    Until this happens, and more countries follow suit by banning all use of lead ammunition for hunting, the health of wildlife, domestic animals and vulnerable groups of people will continue to be threatened by the toxic effects of lead from ammunition.

    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

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    Deborah Pain is an Honorary Professor at the University of East Anglia (Biological Sciences) and a Visiting Academic in the Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge. She has been an independent scientist since April 2018. She has received no remuneration for research on lead poisoning since that time, but, along with colleagues, has received funding for the costs of research and chemical analysis from a number of sources, as acknowledged in published papers. She was a member of the UK REACH Independent Scientific Expert Pool (RISEP) and within this the Challenge Panel on Lead in Ammunition and received payment for that work. However, her published research on lead poisoning was independent of that process.

    Rhys Green has received funding for research from several organisations including the RSPB, where he was principal conservation scientist until 2017. He is now retired. He is an unpaid volunteer research scientist at RSPB and Emeritus Honorary Professor of Conservation Science in the Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge. He is a member of the UK REACH Independent Scientific Expert Pool (RISEP), which is an expert group set up by a UK government agency, the Health & Safety Executive. He receives occasional payments for work done on behalf of RISEP. He is on the Board of Trustees of Chester Zoo.

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

    – ref. Britain’s ban on lead ammunition could save tens of thousands of birds from poisoning – https://theconversation.com/britains-ban-on-lead-ammunition-could-save-tens-of-thousands-of-birds-from-poisoning-260958

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Lions rugby tour: why visual training, including juggling, can be a secret weapon in elite sports

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Zoe Wimshurst, Senior Lecturer of Sport Psychology, Health Sciences University

    Odua Images/Shutterstock

    Much of the pre-series attention on the 2025 British and Irish Lions tour of Australia has been on injuries, player omissions and personal rivalries.

    One of those rivalries involves the Australian sensation Joseph-Akuso Suaalii facing Lions centre player, Sione Tuipulotu, with whom he had a fiery encounter in a match last year.

    Suaalii only switched codes from rugby league to rugby union in 2023 and has just five international caps to his name. But despite his lack of union experience, he has been catching attention lately for more than just his powerful runs and physicality. In recent weeks, Suaalii’s unusual pre-match warm-up has also sparked curiosity, most notably, his use of juggling and peripheral awareness drills to prepare his visual system.

    For many spectators, seeing a player showing off their juggling skills is more suited to a circus performance than international rugby. But there is science behind his bizarre approach. This preparation could be giving him an edge the Lions should fear.

    Growing evidence

    Visual performance in elite sport remains an under-applied area of sport science, yet the evidence for its effectiveness is growing.

    My own research has found that a county cricket team which underwent six weeks of visual training improved their basic cricket skills more than a control group which did extra cricket skills exercises. This demonstrates that we need to be looking beyond the confines of the sport itself to bring about maximal performance.

    Visual skill in sport is about more than just 20/20 vision. Each sport has its own specific demands, and rugby requires skills such as peripheral awareness, depth perception, rapid eye movement, reaction speed, dynamic visual acuity and eye-body coordination.

    Joseph-Akuso Suaalii.
    wikipedia, CC BY-SA

    Combining these visual skills will allow the most accurate information to be sent to the brain for processing – helping players to make the best decisions, even under intense pressure and high levels of fatigue.

    By using exercises such as juggling, Suaalii is training several of these visual skills at once. Juggling requires excellent eye-body coordination, the use of the peripheral system and reaction speed. These are all skills which are also used in rugby for catching high balls kicked by opponents, reading attacking threats and spotting the movement of teammates and opposition players.

    Juggling has also been shown to bring about positive structural changes in the human brain – particularly in areas linked to processing visual information – and integrating this with motor control.

    This demonstrates that this relatively simple exercise can lead to improvements not only in the eyes, but also the brain. In rugby, the visual array will be constantly changing. A shift in the defensive line, a looping support run, a player slightly slow to recover from a ruck, or a spiralling high kick – the ability to spot, process and respond to these visual cues can be the difference between success and failure.

    Suaalii is by no means the first rugby player to train his visual system. Former coach Clive Woodward famously brought in a visual performance coach to work with the England team – and they went on to win the 2003 Rugby World Cup.

    I also worked with the Harlequins rugby team in the English Premiership as a visual performance coach. We won three trophies in my first three seasons with the team, which is known for free flowing, creative play. This style of play places extremely high demands on the players’ visual systems.

    Lions test series

    So what particular visual skills can you look out for over this Lions test series and how might they impact the outcome?

    When defending close to their own try line, players should be scanning across the width of the pitch to ensure that they do not become outnumbered on either side of the field. Conversely, the attackers should be making rapid scans to quickly identify any mismatch (for example, a slow front row forward versus a swift and agile winger) they can take advantage of.

    In these situations, players can often focus too much on the ball, allowing opposition players to craftily reposition themselves unseen. The best players will, wherever possible, be looking at everything, everywhere, all at once, improving their spatial awareness and enabling them to maintain an overview of the game in their minds.

    To catch a kicked spiralling highball, a fullback or winger needs exceptional tracking ability and depth perception. Players in this situation are sometimes let down by “convergence issues”, where as the eyes track an object moving towards them, they can drift outwards or become misaligned. This can cause players to mistime their jump, or for the ball to hit their chest before being caught, wasting vital milliseconds. Training these convergence issues has been shown to bring about improvements in sports performance.

    As a scrum-half is collecting the ball from a breakdown, they need quickly to scan the positions of teammates on either side of them, and be aware of the depth of the defensive line. Having this visual information will lead to better decisions and creating faster attacking opportunities.

    A crunching tackle may seem like a purely strength-based skill. But to ensure it is both perfectly timed and legal, a defender must perfectly anticipate the speed and direction of the oncoming player. They can then use this information to precisely position their own body to impart their full momentum, while using their reaction speed to make last-second adjustments to ensure they do not put their opponent in danger.

    Subtle visual advantages, honed through practice, can influence these moments. During this test series, they may well be the difference between winning and losing. Suaalii’s juggling may seem better suited to the circus, but it could be the secret weapon Australia need to secure the series.

    Zoe Wimshurst is the owner and director of Performance Vision Ltd, a company which provides visual training and consultancy services.

    – ref. Lions rugby tour: why visual training, including juggling, can be a secret weapon in elite sports – https://theconversation.com/lions-rugby-tour-why-visual-training-including-juggling-can-be-a-secret-weapon-in-elite-sports-261424

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Afghan data leak: how selective state secrecy and cover-ups can harm civilians

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Victoria Canning, Professor of Criminology, Lancaster University

    In 2022, somebody in the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) mistakenly shared a spreadsheet containing the personal information associated with 18,714 Afghans and their family members. This data breach, and the efforts to cover it up, raises serious questions about state secrecy, blame-shifting and accountability.

    After discovering the mistake in August 2023, the government covered up their spectacular error with an unprecedented injunction “contra mundum” (against the world). This “superinjunction” prohibited journalists and others in the know – like one author of this article (Professor Sara de Jong) – from reporting the breach and even the very existence of the injunction.

    When the superinjunction was finally lifted on July 15, John Healey, the defence secretary, revealed that the MoD had operated a secret resettlement scheme for Afghans whose data had been leaked at risk from the Taliban. To date, 900 Afghans and 3,600 family members have been flown to Britain or are currently in transit via this scheme. A further 600 people and their immediate family members are still in Afghanistan, being promised evacuation. Many thousands of others on the list were already resettled in the UK via two other official routes.

    The spectacular nature and impact of this data leak should not distract from the fact that it is not entirely unique. The personal data of Afghan applicants had already been exposed by the MoD in an earlier series of data breaches in September 2021.

    The superinjunction is only the latest in a string of silences that have prevented accountability on Afghanistan and other issues to do with national security.

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    In the wake of the dramatic Nato withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021, the foreign affairs select committee was dependent on whistleblowers to get to the truth about then prime minister Boris Johnson’s prioritisation of an animal charity for evacuation, over others at acute risk. Political accountability over the chaos of the evacuation was compromised by the foreign office who, according to then committee chair Tom Tugendhat, “repeatedly has given us answers that, in our judgement, are at best intentionally evasive, and often deliberately misleading”.

    The Ministry of Defence – including Healey in his statement on the data breach – routinely cites the deaths of 457 British soldiers as the “costs of war” in Afghanistan. But the department only released the data on how many Afghan interpreters died alongside them after a freedom of information request by Sara de Jong. The MoD, even after several freedom of information Requests and appeals, refuses to provide further details about the circumstances of their deaths.

    Even the latest shocking revelations didn’t end with the lifting of the superinjunction. A secondary injunction was lifted on July 17, revealing that the leaked list also contained the identities of dozens of British officials, including spies and special forces.

    Selective secrecy

    In the wider context of government leaks and secrecy, critical questions need to be asked about which secrets are kept, by whom and why.

    In his judgement lifting the superinjunction, Mr Justice Chamberlain credited media organisations and individual journalists involved with the fact that they had kept the leak confidential. Like Sara, some had become aware of the breach several months before Healey (the then-shadow defence secretary was informed in December 2023). But all kept quiet to keep Afghans at risk safe, not to cover up their own errors.

    The government invests in secrecy when it also has its own embarrassment to hide, whether it is an extraordinary superinjunction or secrecy about the prioritisation of a pet charity during the Afghanistan evacuation.

    Appeals to national security routinely obstruct media, legal and public access to information to hold the government to account. Meanwhile, many Afghans are left wondering why their and their loved ones’ data was on a spreadsheet that could be emailed around with a click of the wrong button.

    Effects on Afghans

    The consequences of the cover-up will be felt most acutely by Afghans – those on the leaked list still waiting for evacuation, including family members of Afghans already in the UK, whose own presence may be complicated further by anti-immigration sentiment.

    Following the revelations, Healey announced that the secret relocation scheme was now closed, following the sudden decision to close the two official Afghan resettlement schemes.

    The decision to shut down the two publicly known resettlement schemes, he claimed, was based on “policy concerns about proportionality, public accountability, cost and fairness”, as well as a commissioned report on the impact of the leak.

    He defended his decisions saying that “the taxpayer should be paying £1.2 billion less over the next few years, and that around 9,500 fewer Afghans will come to this country”. In the context of ongoing anti-immigration rhetoric, the mention of costs combined with refugees is as unsurprising as it is inflammatory.

    On the day of announcement, affected Afghans were sent a notice by the MoD and a link where they could find out if their data had been compromised. The email said very little about what the MoD could offer, and said a lot about what measures Afghans were now supposed to take: use a virtual private network, limit who can see your social media profiles.

    Afghans unlucky enough to be Afghanistan were simply advised that, “If you are outside the UK, please do not try to travel to a third country without a valid passport and visa. If you do so, you will be putting yourself at risk on the journey, and you may face the risk of being deported back to Afghanistan”.

    It is almost impossible for Afghans to travel legally without international assistance. And, since the Taliban are not recognised as a legitimate government, embassies are closed for citizens to even obtain legal travel documentation.

    Given that the British government recognises the real risk of rights violations in Afghanistan, as well as the ongoing assault on women’s rights by the Taliban, it seems contradictory – and a remarkable abdication of responsibility – to close routes to safety.

    Victoria Canning has received funding from UKRI and British Academy.

    Sara de Jong has received funding from the British Academy (Mid-Career Fellowship 2022) for research on Afghan interpreters and their claims to protection and rights. She is the chair of the board of trustees of the Sulha Alliance CIO, which advocates for and supports Afghan interpreters employed by the British Army.

    – ref. Afghan data leak: how selective state secrecy and cover-ups can harm civilians – https://theconversation.com/afghan-data-leak-how-selective-state-secrecy-and-cover-ups-can-harm-civilians-261394

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Going on holiday? What you need to know about taking your meds with you

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Dipa Kamdar, Senior Lecturer in Pharmacy Practice, Kingston University

    YAKOBCHUK VIACHESLAV/Shutterstock

    As summer holidays begin, many travellers are packing more than just swimsuits and sunscreen – for millions, medicines are essential. But taking them abroad isn’t always simple. From legal pitfalls to temperature-sensitive drugs, here’s how to travel safely and legally with your medication.

    Know the law

    Medicines that are legal in the UK can be restricted or even banned in other countries. Having a valid prescription doesn’t guarantee you can take a medicine into another country.

    For example, Nurofen Plus, which contains codeine (an opioid painkiller), is prohibited in countries like Egypt, Indonesia and the UAE.

    Even common cold remedies containing decongestants like pseudoephedrine can land you in trouble in places like Japan and South Korea. This is because pseudoephedrine can be used to make methamphetamine (“speed”). Likewise, many stimulant ADHD drugs are also banned from these countries.

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    Some countries have restrictions on the amount of medication that you are allowed to bring into the country – usually a maximum of three months supply.

    Travellers often overlook how strict customs regulations can be regarding medications. Even if prescribed for a valid medical reason, carrying a prohibited drug can lead to confiscation (leaving you without essential treatment), fines (especially in countries with tough drug laws) and detention or arrest in rare but serious cases.

    If you’re travelling with certain controlled drugs – such as opioids, stimulants or psychotropic substances – you may need to apply for an export licence from the UK Home Office. This is typically required when carrying a supply of three months or more. Examples of controlled drugs include diazepam (for anxiety and muscle spasms), codeine and morphine (for pain), amphetamines (for ADHD) and temazepam (for insomnia).

    Before you travel, check whether your medicine is affected by any of these restrictions. Use the country’s embassy website or the UK government’s travel advice to check the rules of your destination country.

    This should provide guidance on whether you simply need a copy of your prescription, a doctor’s letter or a special import certificate (some countries require official documentation even for personal use).

    The UK government advises carrying controlled drugs or any drugs that might be restricted in your hand luggage. You should take along a prescription or a signed letter from your doctor detailing your medication, dosage and travel dates.

    Ensure you take sufficient supplies for the duration of your trip and include extras for unexpected delays, damage or loss.

    Even some over-the-counter medicines can fall foul of the law.
    olesea vetrila/Shutterstock.com

    Store your medication properly

    It might be tempting to save space by transferring pills or liquids into smaller containers or pill organisers. While this can be convenient, it’s not always advisable. Customs officials may not recognise unlabelled containers, increasing the chance of delays or confiscation.

    Some medications are sensitive to light, air or temperature, and must remain in their original packaging to stay effective. For example, HRT (hormone replacement therapy) sprays like Lenzetto must not be decanted.

    These products rely on precise metered dosing and specialised packaging to deliver the correct amount of hormone. Transferring them to another container could result in incorrect dosing or loss of potency.

    Similarly, GTN (glyceryl trinitrate) tablets, used to treat angina, should always be stored in their original glass bottle. The active ingredient can evaporate if exposed to air, reducing the tablets’ effectiveness.

    You might be worried about the 100ml liquid in hand luggage restriction – with a doctor’s letter certifying the need for this medicine, you should be able to take larger amounts of liquid medicine through security.

    Medicines should always be kept in their original packaging with labels intact. When in doubt, ask your pharmacist whether your medication can be safely repackaged for travel.

    It’s also important to split your supply of medicines between bags (if more than one is used) in case one is lost. Tablets and capsules can sometimes be placed in a pill organiser for daily use, but always carry the original box or prescription label as backup.

    Some medicines require refrigeration – like Wegovy and Ozempic (semaglutide) injections for weight loss or insulin.

    Usually, unopened Wegovy pens and insulin preparations should be stored between 2°C and 8°C in a fridge. Once out of the fridge, they can be kept at room temperature (up to 25°C) for up to 28 days, but must be protected from heat and sunlight. High temperatures, such as in direct sunlight or a hot car, can damage insulin.

    When travelling, use an insulated travel case or cool pack, but avoid placing pens or other medicines directly next to ice packs to prevent freezing.

    Airlines generally do not provide refrigeration or freezer storage for passenger items, including medicines, due to space and liability concerns, but it’s worth contacting them to see if they can help with arrangements for storage. Inspect insulin for crystals after flying – if any are present, it should be discarded.

    You can bring needles and injectable medicines like EpiPens (for allergies), insulin or Wegovy in your hand luggage. But it’s important to carry a doctor’s note stating your medical condition and the necessity of the medication, and a copy of your prescription.

    You should also declare them at airport security. Security officers may inspect these items separately, so allow for extra time going through security.

    Contact your airline for any specific rules on needles and injectable medicines. Always carry such medicines and medical devices in your hand luggage – checked bags can be lost or exposed to extreme temperatures.

    Don’t skip doses

    Tempting as it may be to leave your medication behind for a short trip, doing so can be risky. Stopping treatment – even temporarily – can lead to relapse or worsening of symptoms (especially for chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension or depression).

    For medicines like antidepressants or opioids, people may start feeling withdrawal effects. You’re also at risk of reduced effectiveness if you miss doses of medicines that require consistent levels in your bloodstream.

    If you’re considering a break from your medication, consult your doctor first. They can advise whether a short pause is safe or help you plan a travel-friendly regimen.

    Take the right documents

    While showing your NHS app to border officials may help demonstrate that a medicine is prescribed to you, it’s not always sufficient – especially when travelling with restricted or controlled drugs and injectable medicines.

    Most countries require a copy of your prescription, and a doctor’s letter confirming the medication is for personal use. Your doctor is not legally obliged to issue this letter, but most will do so upon request.

    It’s best to ask at least one to two weeks in advance, as some practices may charge a fee or require time to prepare the documentation.

    Travelling with medication doesn’t have to be stressful, but it does require planning. With the right preparation, you can enjoy your holiday without compromising your health or running afoul of foreign laws.

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

    – ref. Going on holiday? What you need to know about taking your meds with you – https://theconversation.com/going-on-holiday-what-you-need-to-know-about-taking-your-meds-with-you-261018

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Going on holiday? Here’s how to make sure your trip is sustainable

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Sayed Elhoushy, Senior Lecturer in Marketing, Queen Mary University of London

    Anna Om/Shutterstock

    With the rise of sustainable tourism (travelling in a way that minimises harm to the environment, and benefits local communities), words such as “sustainable”, “”eco” and “green” appear on countless holiday brochures. From five-star hotels promoting “eco luxury” to airlines pledging to reduce carbon emissions and destinations making various green claims, sustainability is increasingly being used as a marketing tool.

    But with so many green claims floating around, it’s hard to know who is really providing sustainable travel and who is just greenwashing. A recent report shows that 53% of green claims are vague, misleading, or unfounded – and half of all green labels offer weak or non-existent verification.

    So, how can travellers distinguish genuine sustainability from greenwash that exaggerates environmental claims to attract eco-conscious travellers?

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    Sustainability certification is a voluntary, third-party assessment that verifies a product, service, or organisation meets certain environmental, social, or ethical standards. These certifications provide a structure to manage, improve and communicate sustainability performance.

    More than 100 sustainable certifications promise that they have vetted tourism businesses so you can have a satisfying and guilt-free holiday.

    Yet, not all certifications are made equal, as our recent research shows. Most certification schemes audit actions taken, rather than assessing how effective these are.

    They assure you that the hotel you are staying in has an environmental policy or that it is progressively reducing some of its negative effects on the environment, but not that their energy or water consumption is well below that of its competitors, for example.

    Choosing a sustainable holiday involves more than just travel to your destination.
    PhotoSunnyDays/Shutterstock

    One major challenge is that consumers are not using these labels to inform their buying decisions. Next time you travel, select businesses certified by an organisation with a proven track record of verification and transparency. There are several things a strong certification should do:

    First, it should be third-party verified. This ensures that the green claims are independently checked.

    Second, it needs specific and clear criteria. Beware of vague sustainability claims, such as “eco-friendly”. Look for certifications that require transparent reporting on performance for specific environmental actions, such as waste management, or responsible sourcing.

    Third, it should go beyond eco-savings. Reducing energy and water consumption saves the hotel money. They should not get a prize for that. Seek evidence of the certification promoting best practice in complex issues like biodiversity conservation and dignity in the workplace.

    Examples of sustainable tourism certifications to keep an eye on include Green Key (the largest label in Europe); B Corp (which measures a company’s entire social and environmental impact); The Long Run (a promoter of nature conservation); and Fair Trade Tourism (a promoter of fair working conditions). These certifications require businesses to undergo regular audits to maintain them.

    In case you are thinking it’s not your responsibility to find out who is any good – you are right. The EU Green Claims Directive (due to be implemented by 2026) is a new legislation that requires companies to prove their environmental claims and labels, and ensure they are credible and trustworthy. This directive recognises the greenwash problem and will require certification to be based on assessment of actual performance – in tourism, and every other sector of the economy. The directive applies to any business anywhere in the world that sells to consumers from the EU. Expect fewer, but more respected and recognisable labels, that reduce consumer confusion.

    Buying locally produced souvenirs supports artisans.
    studiolaska / Shutterstock.com

    Beyond eco-labels

    Certification is only part of the picture. Your next holiday can make a greater contribution to local communities while minimising its harm to the environment. Take the time to consider how your trip can be part of a larger, positive contribution. Here are more ways to ensure that your holiday supports local communities and the environment:

    Make sure you travel shorter and stay longer. Research shows that transport is a major part of the carbon footprint of your trip. Fly less (if at all). Choose flights with lower carbon footprints – various booking sites now tell customers the carbon footprint for each flight at the time of purchase. And stay longer so you spend more locally, for that same flight.



    Read more:
    Five ways to make aviation more sustainable right now

    Choose tour operators that prioritise locally owned and small suppliers. Buy souvenirs that are made locally, and you can only find in that country. Travel slow – soak in where you are. Hike, cycle, use local transport. You will see more of the real place you are in.

    Choose buses and trains over private cars. Rent electric vehicles and select accommodation that provides charging facilities. And enjoy local and seasonal rather than imported food. Eat everything in your plate, rather than create food waste.

    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 45,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

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

    – ref. Going on holiday? Here’s how to make sure your trip is sustainable – https://theconversation.com/going-on-holiday-heres-how-to-make-sure-your-trip-is-sustainable-255037

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Bluetongue outbreak endangers UK livestock – what you need to know about the virus

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Cate Williams, Knowledge Exchange Fellow at Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences, Aberystwyth University

    Bluetongue causes illness and death in cattle, sheep, goats and other ruminants. Juice Flair/Shutterstock

    A tiny midge, no bigger than a pinhead, is bringing UK farming to its knees. The culprit? A strain of the bluetongue virus that’s never been seen before.

    As of July 1, the whole of England has been classed as an “infected area” due to bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3).

    There are movement restrictions and testing in place in Scotland, Wales and the island of Ireland. No animals from England – or that have passed through England – are allowed to attend this year’s Royal Welsh Show on July 21-24, for example.

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    The virus, which causes illness and death in sheep, cattle, goats and other ruminants, is spread by biting midges. Although it poses no risk to humans and can’t be transmitted from one animal to another, the latest outbreak is more severe than previous ones. And it could cause lasting damage to UK farming.

    Bluetongue isn’t new to the UK, however. A different strain, BTV-8 was detected in 2007 and contained. But BTV-3 is a different story. First detected in the Netherlands in late 2023, it was quickly spotted in the UK, where an early containment effort initially appeared successful.

    But the virus made a comeback in autumn 2024 – and this time it spread. On its second attempt, the virus was able to circulate and caused an outbreak. With little existing immunity, BTV-3 has now established itself, prompting concerns about animal welfare, food production and farming livelihoods.

    What does the disease do?

    Sheep tend to be the most severely affected, though all ruminants are at risk. Clinical signs are species-specific but can include swelling of the face, congestion, nasal discharge, ulcers in the mouth and nose, difficulty breathing and abortion or birth deformities.

    Bluetongue can cause the animal’s tongue to swell. It can also turn blue from lack of blood flow – although this is somewhat rare.

    Bluetongue disease causes suffering in animals, and while there is a vaccine, there is no treatment for the disease once it’s contracted.

    BTV-3 appears to be more lethal than earlier strains. In the Netherlands, vets report that BTV-3 is causing more severe symptoms than BTV-8 did.

    Vets in England reported that in some herds 25-40% of cows failed to get pregnant, and there was a high rate of birth defects and stillborn calves. One farm in Suffolk started the calving season with 25% of their cows not pregnant and ended with just 48 calves from 97 cows.

    Belgium has seen a fall in calf births, reduced milk deliveries and higher mortality in small ruminants compared to the previous three years.

    How is it spread?

    Bluetongue virus is transmitted by midges from the Culicoides genus. These are tiny, biting insects that thrive in mild, wet conditions.

    Multiple midges can bite the same animal, and it only takes one of them to carry BTV before that animal becomes a host for further transmission. When animals are transported long distances, infected individuals can be bitten again and introduce the virus to previously uninfected midge populations.

    Climate change is making outbreaks like this more likely. Milder winters and cooler, wetter summers are ideal for midges, increasing both their numbers and their biting activity.

    While there’s no danger to human health, the consequences of BTV-3 are far-reaching. Limitations on movement, exports and imports are being imposed to help prevent the spread of the disease, but this could also hamper farming practices and trade.

    The disease and its associated restrictions pose another source of stress for farmers, 95% of whom have ranked mental health as the biggest hidden problem in farming.

    Genetic pick and mix

    One of the reasons bluetongue is so tricky to manage is its ability to evolve. It has a segmented genome, meaning its genetic material, in this case RNA, is split into ten segments. This characteristic is exclusive to “reassortment viruses” and means that they can easily exchange segments of RNA. It’s like a genetic pick and mix with ten different types of sweets that come in an unlimited number of flavours.

    This allows BTV to create new, genetically distinct “serotypes”, which may have a selective advantage or a disadvantage. Those with an advantage will emerge and spread successfully, while those with a disadvantage will not emerge at all. This process, known as “reassortment”, is partly responsible for the numerous influenza pandemics throughout history and has even allowed diseases to jump the species barrier.

    Although bluetongue doesn’t affect humans directly, its spread poses a growing threat to the UK’s livestock sector and food supply. It’s important to learn from other countries that are further along in the BTV-3 outbreak so that the likely effects can be anticipated in the UK.

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

    – ref. Bluetongue outbreak endangers UK livestock – what you need to know about the virus – https://theconversation.com/bluetongue-outbreak-endangers-uk-livestock-what-you-need-to-know-about-the-virus-260229

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: How to understand the row between Angela Rayner and Unite – and what it means for Labour’s relationship with the unions

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Eric Shaw, Honorary Research Fellow in Politics, University of Stirling

    At its recent conference in Brighton, the union Unite voted overwhelmingly to expel deputy prime minister Angela Rayner from membership.

    The successful motion denounced the way Birmingham’s Labour council has handled a pay dispute with the city’s bin workers, which, it claimed, involved large pay cuts. The motion also condemned the Labour government for supporting the council.

    Rayner was suspended because, in the words of Unite general secretary Sharon Graham, she had “backed a rogue council that has peddled lies and smeared its workers fighting huge pay cuts”.

    The resolution called upon the union leadership to “re-examine” its relationship with the Labour party. Graham added: “People up and down the country are asking whose side is the Labour government on and coming up with the answer, not workers”.

    Rayner’s suspension seems an extraordinary move. The soft-left deputy PM is the most senior pro-union voice in the government and has a long history in the union movement. Crucially, when in opposition, Rayner was primarily responsible for hammering out a package of measures with the unions that was designed to bolster employee rights. These measures are now in the process of being codified in the employment rights bill that is making its way through parliament.

    Why Rayner (along with some Birmingham Labour councillors) was selected for expulsion is unclear. Perhaps the union was simply lashing out. The impact of its decision was lessened by the fact that Rayner says she had already resigned from Unite and remains a member of Unison, a union in which she once served as an official.

    Unite and Labour

    The more significant move was (or appeared to be) the pledge to “re-examine” Unite’s relationship with the party. This should be placed in the context both of recent controversies over attempts to means-test winter fuel payments and cut disability benefits, and of reports of moves to form a new leftwing party under the putative leadership of Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana..

    Might Unite disaffiliate from Labour and rally behind the new party? Given that Unite, with its 1.2 million members, is Britain’s second largest union (after Unison), and, over the years, has been a generous donor to Labour, such a move would be significant. Support from Unite could give the new leftwing party real heft and allow it to pose a worrying threat to Labour’s electoral prospects.

    Unite’s recent history might suggest this as a possibility. With a long tradition stretching back over three quarters of a century, Unite (and its precursor, the TGWU) has been a stalwart of the Labour left. Under its leftwing general secretary, Len McCluskey, Unite made a major contribution to Ed Miliband’s election as party leader in 2010. McCluskey subsequently attacked Miliband for drifting too far to the right.

    The union then played a crucial role in sustaining Jeremy Corbyn’s leadership: indeed, without its support, Corbyn might not have survived so long. And as it became evident that Keir Starmer was determined to wrench the party to the right, Unite once more became the centre of leftwing dissent.

    McCluskey retired in 2021, but neither of the two candidates affiliated to his “Unite left” faction won the election to succeed him. Unexpectedly, they were both defeated by Graham, another leftwinger who believed that Unite had become too embroiled in internal Labour party matters and was determined to divert resources away from funding the Labour party to industrial activities.

    The dog that hasn’t barked

    However, Graham’s desire to divest from Labour should not be taken as a sign that she wants to reinvest in another party. The whole thrust of Graham’s leadership is to give much higher priority to industrial than to political concerns.

    Even had she not been so explicit about this, union leaders are, above all, realists. They are concerned with the practicalities of protecting the interests of their members and hence averse to risky political experimentation.

    And, however contentious a role Unite has played in the Labour party, multiple ties, in terms of history, tradition, ethos and interest, still bind the two together.

    The row between Unite and Labour shouldn’t lead us to overlook the fact that, despite all the controversies and disappointments, the other major union affiliates, including Unison, GMB and USDAW, have largely refrained from public criticism of the government.

    This is a sign of loyalty. The unions do not wish to add to the massive problems the Starmer government already faces. But it’s also evidence that, however undersold, the Labour government is delivering on the issues that matter to unions. Its employment rights bill promises the most significant enhancement of individual and collective worker rights in a generation. The unions will allow nothing to jeopardise this.

    But for Starmer, there is no room at all for complacency. With a stuttering economy, greatly overstretched public services, a cost of living crisis and very difficult public sector pay negotiations, even the most sympathetic union leaders will come under great pressure from a disgruntled rank and file to take a tougher line with the government. The road ahead will be rocky.

    Eric Shaw is a member of the Labour party

    – ref. How to understand the row between Angela Rayner and Unite – and what it means for Labour’s relationship with the unions – https://theconversation.com/how-to-understand-the-row-between-angela-rayner-and-unite-and-what-it-means-for-labours-relationship-with-the-unions-261340

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Trefusis Park Flood Relief Scheme – Tree maintenance update

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Work is continuing to progress at Trefusis Park, with contractor Kier making the best of the dry weather to start the earthworks.  

    Well before the project began and before bird-nesting started, we removed five pre-identified trees to make way for the scheme.

    We hoped that this would be all that would be needed, but another recent survey has identified 12 trees along the western edge of the park that need maintenance, two ash trees showing signs of Ash Dieback that need to be removed and a London Plane at the northern end of the park that needs re-pollarding. 

    This work is required to enable Kier to operate their machinery safely while building the earthwork bunds and secondly, to protect the public from potentially unsafe branches when the park is reopened.

    Here are the details:

    The ash tree on the western edge of the park

    Ash requiring removal, western edge of the park

    This large ash tree is suffering from Ash Dieback and is leaning over the path and into the park. The arboricultural supervisor has advised that due to the extent of the infection and the amount of limbs that need to be removed the only practical option to manage the risk it presents is to fell this tree.

    Ash requiring removal, near the sewer access

    This smaller ash tree is growing out of a wall. It also has Ash Dieback and even if it didn’t, it’s growth would be limited by its position. It will also be removed.

    London Plane, Northern entrance

    This large specimen is a “lapsed pollard” tree, estimated to have last been pollarded (or trimmed like a street tree) around 20 years ago.

    The arboricultural supervisor has advised that, because of its previous pollarding and the recent excavation works close to its roots, it should be sympathetically pollarded again in order to strengthen the limbs.  

    The smaller ash tree growing from a wall

    Trees requiring maintenance along western edge of the park

    Lastly, some pruning of the lower limbs of 12 trees (crowning) is required for the construction team to be able to safely operate their earthworks machinery in the area along the western edge of the park and to allow for future safe use of the new paths. 

    Some branches will need to be removed from trees to allow for clearance of between 2.5m and 5m from ground level.

    The maintenance works and the felling of the two ash trees will take place from 21 July under the watch of the scheme’s arboricultural supervisor and an ecologist.

    Work will cease (or perhaps not even begin) at the slightest hint of bird activity.

    The London Plane is currently being risk assessed by the arboriculturist and the pollarding work will then be scheduled.

    We know this is disappointing news. No one wants to lose trees, but in this case, to ensure that the scheme can be constructed safely and that we solve the flooding issues in Lipson Vale, we have had to make the tough choice.

    The Trefusis Park Flood Relief Scheme remains a nature positive project and was previously re-designed to save almost 100 mature trees.

    The finished project will include new wildlife-rich habitats, including the planting of new trees and hedgerows as well as a new amenity pond, giving residents more opportunities to connect with nature.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Councils join forces to share fostering success in regional podcast special

    Source: City of Derby

    The South West Fostering Podcast has joined forces with Katie Jones, Team Manager at Foster for East Midlands Councils, for a special Regional Fostering Crossover episode, shining a light on how councils can learn from each other to better support foster carers and children.

    In this lively and inspiring conversation, Katie is joined by Carrie, Team Manager for Fostering South West, alongside the South West Assistant Team Manager (ATM) and Communications Lead. Together, they reflect on shared challenges, creative recruitment strategies, and how fostering varies but also unites across regions.

    The episode explores key questions, such as:

    • What’s similar about fostering in different areas?
    • What creative tactics are attracting new foster carers?
    • Why does involving your whole household matter so much?
    • How can we all learn from each other’s successes?

    Katie Jones said:

    Collaborating with the South West team was a fantastic opportunity to share what works well in the East Midlands and to take away fresh ideas from another region. Together, we can make fostering even stronger for children and carers.

    The episode highlights how sharing best practices helps councils improve recruitment strategies, reach more potential carers, and build stronger support networks for foster families.

    Listen to the podcast episode on the Fostering South West YouTube channel or watch below.

    Thinking about fostering?

    The need for foster carers remains high across all regions of the UK. If you’re interested in making a difference in a child’s life and want to foster with your local council, the Foster for East Midlands team is here to guide you.

    Foster for East Midlands Councils is a partnership between Derby City Council, Derbyshire County Council, Nottingham City Council, and Nottinghamshire County Council, working together to recruit, train, and support foster carers across the region. By fostering with your council, you are fostering for your community — helping children stay close to their schools, friends, and extended families whenever possible.

    If you live in the East Midlands and would like to know more, please get in touch, you can apply online: https://fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk/become-foster-carer/apply-now/, email: info@fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk or call us on 03033 132 950

    Watch below the podcast with South West Council and Foster for East Midlands Councils 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Security Council Holds Briefing on Situation in Colombia

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    9961st Meeting (AM)

    Special Representative and Head of the UN Verification Mission in Colombia Carlos Ruiz Massieu will brief the Security Council this morning on recent developments in the country and the Secretary-General’s latest report on the Mission (document S/2025/419), which covers the period from 27 March to 26 June.   The report highlights major developments in the country, implementation of the Final Peace Agreement and the Mission’s coordination with the country team, among other matters. 

    Colombia will participate in the meeting under rule 37 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure. 

    For information media. Not an official record.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Capito Celebrates Career, Legacy of Outgoing WVU President Gordon Gee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito

    [embedded content]

    Click here or on the image above to watch Senator Capito’s remarks.

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Yesterday, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) delivered a speech on the Senate floor celebrating the career and legacy of West Virginia University’s (WVU) outgoing president Dr. Gordon Gee.

    Dr. Gee, who retired this week, dedicated nearly two decades of his life to the service of West Virginia, where he saw the university through many victories and challenges. Dr. Gee worked tirelessly to make education in West Virginia more accessible and obtainable, partnered with Marshall University president Brad Smith to keep the best and brightest students in West Virginia after graduation, and oversaw the addition of 20 hospitals under the WVU Medicine umbrella.

    Senator Capito’s remarks as prepared for delivery: 

    “Mr. President, 

    “I rise today to honor a dear friend of mine, who has dedicated nearly two decades of his life to the service of our great state of West Virginia, and, to the betterment of our students seeking higher education.

    “The man who has been president of more universities than anyone else in the entire world!

    “Doctor E. Gordon Gee, President of West Virginia University, who retired this week.

    “Dr. Gee, or Gordon as we call him, was fortunate to serve two tenures as President of WVU,

    “First from 1981 to 1985, and again from 2013 to 2025.

    “Where he brought his strong desire for community, and love of education, to our Home Among the Hills in Morgantown.

    “I know I speak for everyone when I say how much we will miss his signature bow tie—I believe he has thousands, his love for athletics and impact within the NCAA—he even offered to suit up for the WVU football team, although he’s quick to admit he isn’t much of an athlete—his infectious energy, and his thoughtful guidance.

    “His legacy will be felt at WVU for generations to come.

    “To understand the impact that Gordon has made on West Virginia, I must expand on what WVU means to our state and people far outside our borders.

    “WVU was established in 1867, initially named the Agricultural College of West Virginia, and became our state’s first public land-grant university.

    “Since then, individuals from across our state, country, and world have become Mountaineers – including many members of my own family.

    “There are a couple things that I must note about WVU:

    “First, Mountaineers are everywhere.

    “There isn’t a town across West Virginia, or an airport across our country, where you won’t see the trademark blue and gold flying WV logo.

    “The Mountaineers serve as a point of pride for our state and bring recognition to the wonderful people, passion, culture, and history that we have in West Virginia.

    “Second, Mountaineers are changing the world.

    “Across WVU’s thirteen colleges and schools, whether it be engineering, agriculture, law, or medicine, Mountaineers are making a difference.

    “WVU is our state’s only institution to hold the title of an R-1 University, the benchmark that recognizes exceptional research capacity.

    “This is a status that WVU received in 2016 under Gordon’s leadership.

    “Gordon’s connection to West Virginia isn’t just a professional one. It’s a personal one too.

    “He chose to return to West Virginia not once, but twice, because he believes in West Virginia, our people, and WVU.

    “When he speaks of his love and passion for our state, it is unmistakenly heartfelt.

    “Gordon believes in the power of education, and that belief has left its mark not only on Morgantown, but across every corner of our great state, and honestly, across our entire nation.

    “When Gordon became President of WVU the first time in 1981, he was only 37 years old.

    “When he returned to Blaney House in 2013, he came back seasoned, with the experience and perspective that WVU needed.

    “Through the foundation of his four pillars—education, health care, prosperity, and purpose—Gordon has guided WVU through times both successful and tumultuous—including through a global pandemic—made education for our children in West Virginia more accessible and obtainable, and moved our state towards one of his principles that West Virginians should not have to leave our state’s borders to receive the health services they deserve.

    “The impact that Gordon has made is apparent in many areas, but particularly noteworthy is the impact he has made through the continued expansion of WVU Medicine.

    “As the Chairman of the WVU Medicine Board of Directors, Gordon oversaw the addition of 20 hospitals under the WVU Medicine umbrella that span across our state,

    “And increased the capacity and research support for WVU’s world class facilities like the Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, Cancer Institute, Heart and Vascular Institute, and the new Children’s hospital.

    “As West Virginia’s Senator, I’ve had the privilege to work with the wonderful and incredibly impressive people of WVU Medicine and visit these facilities many times.

    “Let me tell you, they are on the cutting edge of medical advancements that will saves live and change our world.

    “Gordon’s leadership has been a critical part of this success, and it’s fitting that his recently finished portrait will live on the WVU Medicine campus.

    “Although Gordon was born in Utah, he is the first to tell you that he is a ‘born-again’ West Virginian.

    “He has made our state his home, and the effort and energy he puts toward benefiting the lives of his fellow West Virginians is evident.

    “Two of Gordon’s four pillars that I mentioned earlier—purpose and prosperity—relate directly to economic development in our state.

    “Along with Marshall President Brad Smith, Gordon was central to developing the ‘First Ascent’ program in West Virginia,

    “This program connects recent WVU and Marshall graduates with workforce opportunities within our state that launch their professional careers, and keep our best and brightest home, contributing to our communities.

    “The duo also worked together to establish ‘Ascend West Virginia,’ which has been a successful effort to attract remote workers to West Virginia’s mountains, highlighting the wonderful outdoor recreation opportunities our state offers to young professionals and their families.

    “Additionally, Gordon has made it a priority to visit and spend time in all 55 of West Virginia’s counties, showing the excellent work of the WVU Extension services, designed to build prosperity, enhance educational opportunities, improve health, and create purpose in communities across the entirety of our state.

    “While Gordon’s presence as WVU President will be missed, we know that he will continue to make a difference in West Virginia.

    “And, as I said when I started this speech, the legacy he has built will continue to be felt for generations to come.

    “I know that I join Gordon and our state when I say we look forward to leadership and experience that the new WVU president, Michael Benson, brings to Morgantown.

    “In a recent article published by WVU Magazine, I found the advice that Gordon gave to his successor to be wise, true, and eloquent:

    “’If you love the state and its people, they will love you back.’

    “That has certainly been the case for Doctor E. Gordon Gee, and the time he has spent in Morgantown.

    “On a personal note, Charlie and I have been the recipients of emails, texts, and letters from Gordon that have lifted us up in tough times, and in good times as well.

    “I have leaned on Gordon’s counsel as I’ve made difficult decisions, and he has always taken the time to give me thoughtful advice.

    “Both Charlie and I can safely say that our lives have been touched by Gordon, and by the friendship we have fostered with him and Laurie.

    “Here in the U.S. Senate, there are members who may have Gordon on speed-dial, but I am eternally grateful that the West Virginians are the ones who get to claim him!

    “Gordon, I wish you the best in your next chapter, and I hope you enjoy the well-deserved time to now spend with your Laurie, who has made an unbelievable mark on our state and the university alongside you, as well as your daughter Rebekah, and your twin granddaughters that you love so dearly.

    “Thank you for all you have done for West Virginia University— for your leadership, your vision, your heart, and all you’ve done for our state and the people who call it home.

    “With that, I yield the floor.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Cotton to Hegseth: DoD Cannot Allow China to Infiltrate its Critical Infrastructure

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas Tom Cotton

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    Contact: Caroline Tabler or Patrick McCann (202) 224-2353
    July 18, 2025

    Chairman Cotton to Hegseth: DoD Cannot Allow China to Infiltrate its Critical Infrastructure 

    Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, today sent a letter to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, requesting information about Department of Defense contractors that hire Chinese personnel to provide maintenance and services to department systems. This letter follows a report about Microsoft currently employing engineers in China to maintain Department of Defense systems.

    In part, Senator Cotton wrote:

    “The U.S. government recognizes that China’s cyber capabilities pose one of the most aggressive and dangerous threats to the United States, as evidenced by infiltration of our critical infrastructure, telecommunications networks, and supply chains. DoD must guard against all potential threats within its supply chain, including those from subcontractors.”

    Full text of the letter may be found here and below.

    The Honorable Pete Hegseth
    Secretary of Defense
    U.S. Department of Defense
    1000 Defense Pentagon
    Washington, DC 20301

    Dear Secretary Hegseth:

    I write concerning a report that Microsoft is currently employing engineers in China to maintain Department of Defense (DoD) systems, potentially exposing our nation’s most sensitive data to a foreign adversary.[1]

    Chinese state-sponsored hacking campaigns have long targeted U.S. officials through Microsoft systems. Now Microsoft is allegedly relying on U.S. citizens serving as “digital escorts” to supervise these Chinese engineers’ activities on DoD systems. While this arrangement technically meets the requirement that U.S. citizens handle sensitive data, digital escorts often do not have the technical training or expertise needed to catch malicious code or suspicious behavior.

    The U.S. government recognizes that China’s cyber capabilities pose one of the most aggressive and dangerous threats to the United States, as evidenced by infiltration of our critical infrastructure, telecommunications networks, and supply chains. DoD must guard against all potential threats within its supply chain, including those from subcontractors.

    I respectfully request the following information by July 31, 2025.

    1. A list of DoD contractors that hire Chinese personnel to provide maintenance or other services on DoD systems
    2. A list of subcontractors that hire digital escorts for Microsoft, or any other entity, and their interview and technical assessment process for candidates
    3. The training contractors or subcontractors provide to digital escorts on how to identify suspicious activity
    4. Any recommendations for closing existing loopholes in FedRAMP requirements

    Thank you for your attention to this matter.

    Sincerely,

    Tom Cotton

    United States Senator

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Syria crisis: Hundreds killed in ongoing violence, hospitals overwhelmed

    Source: United Nations 4

    Briefing reporters in Geneva, UN human rights office, OHCHR, spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani highlighted “credible” reports of “widespread violations and abuses, including summary executions and arbitrary killings, kidnappings, destruction of private property and looting of homes” in the city of Sweida.

    “Among the reported perpetrators were members of the security forces and individuals affiliated with the interim authorities, as well as other armed elements from the area, including the Druze and Bedouin,” she said.

    Many hospitals are struggling to cope with the influx of injured, the UN refugee agency UNHCR also noted.

    Forced to flee

    On Friday morning, OHCHR colleagues reported that clashes were continuing and that “a lot of people are trying to flee or have fled the area”, Ms. Shamdasani continued.

    Latest updates from the UN humanitarian affairs coordination office, OCHA, on Thursday indicated that nearly 2,000 families had been displaced from areas affected by the fighting.

    Hundreds have reportedly been killed since sectarian violence involving the Druze and Bedouin communities erupted on 12 July, triggering an intervention by Syrian security forces.

    OHCHR’s Ms. Shamdasani highlighted an incident on 15 July in which at least 13 people were killed when “armed individuals affiliated with the interim authorities deliberately opened fire at a family gathering”.

    Briefing an emergency meeting of the Security Council in New York on Thursday, UN Assistant Secretary-General Khaled Khiari also referenced reports of “civilians, religious figures and detainees being subjected to extrajudicial executions and humiliating and degrading treatment”. He urged all parties to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure.

    Rumours and fact-checking

    Ms. Shamdasani stressed that the UN human rights office has been trying to verify the information through “contacts on the ground…families of people who were killed, eyewitnesses”, but that obtaining reliable estimates of the death toll remains challenging.

    “There are lots of videos circulating,” she said. “Some claim to be fighters who are in the area filming the abuses and violations they’re carrying out. We are trying to verify some of these videos, but there’s a lot of disinformation out there and a lot of it is being used to incite further violence to inflame tensions.”

    The OHCHR spokesperson also expressed concern about reports of civilian casualties resulting from Israel’s airstrikes on Sweida, Dara’a and central Damascus.

    “Attacks such as the one on Damascus on Wednesday pose great risks to civilians and civilian objects,” she warned, calling for the strikes to cease.

    Israel had launched the strikes pledging to protect the Druze community.

    The violence and displacement have sparked “considerable” humanitarian needs, with the health and aid systems struggling to keep up, said William Spindler of the UN refugee agency UNCHR.

    “Many of the hospitals have been overwhelmed by the number of people who have been injured in the recent fighting,” he said.

    According to OCHA, the UN World Health Organization (WHO) has dispatched enough trauma and emergency surgery kits for 1,750 interventions to the area, but many “remain undelivered due to access constraints”.

    Since the displaced had to flee at very short notice, they are in desperate need of essentials – blankets, jerry cans, solar lamps – but providing these items has been a challenge.

    Too risky to enter

    “We have this in stock and we are ready to deliver them as soon as the security allows it,” Mr. Spindler said. “For now, this has not been possible.”

    Mr. Spindler also warned of water shortages due to electricity outages. He said that people are unable to buy bottled water or food because of the insecurity.

    UNHCR has an office in rural Sweida and Mr. Spindler expressed concern about the impact of the hostilities on the agency’s operations, infrastructure and personnel.

    “We know that humanitarian infrastructure has been affected,” he said, describing an incident on 15 July in which a warehouse of the Syrian Arab Red Crescent was severely damaged by shelling.

    The UNHCR spokesperson called on all parties to the conflict to respect and protect humanitarian premises, personnel and assets “in accordance with international humanitarian law”.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Aid cuts leave refugee agency unable to shelter six in 10 fleeing war in Sudan

    Source: United Nations 4

    Globally, $1.4 billion of the agency’s programmes are being shuttered or put on hold, UNHCR said in a new report.

    “We can’t stop water, you can’t stop sanitation, but we’re having to take decisions when it comes, for example, to shelter,” said UNHCR Director of External Relations, Dominique Hyde.

    “We’re have people arriving on a daily basis from Sudan, from the Darfur regions…arriving in Chad, not able to be given any shelter.”

    In an urgent appeal for flexible funding from donors, Ms. Hyde noted that up to 11.6 million refugees and others risk losing access this year to direct humanitarian assistance from UNHCR. The figure represents about one-third of those reached by the organization last year.

    On the Sudan-Chad border, the UN agency is now unable to provide “even basic shelter” to more than six in 10 refugees fleeing the conflict. Thousands more vulnerable people have been left stranded in remote border locations in South Sudan, too. “If we just had a bit more support, we could get them to settlements,” she insisted.

    Because of the funding cuts, basic activities have already been hit hard. These include refugee registration, child protection, legal counselling and prevention of and responses to gender-based violence.

    Every aid sector hit

    In South Sudan, 75 per cent of safe spaces for women and girls supported by UNHCR have closed, leaving up to 80,000 refugee women and girls without access to medical care, psychosocial support, legal aid, material support or income-generating activities. This includes survivors of sexual violence, UNHCR noted.

    “Behind these numbers are real lives hanging in the balance,” Ms. Hyde said.

    “Families are seeing the support they relied on vanish, forced to choose between feeding their children, buying medicines or paying rent, while hope for a better future slips out of sight. Every sector and operation has been hit and critical support is being suspended to keep life-saving aid going.”

    Libya influx

    Many of those impacted by the war in Sudan have taken the decision to move from Chad and Egypt to Libya, into the hands of people smugglers who dangerously overload boats with desperate people seeking to cross the Mediterranean Sea to Europe.

    “What we’re observing now is that in terms of arrivals in Europe of…Sudanese refugees, [it] has increased since the beginning of the year by about 170 per cent compared to the first six months of 2024,” said UNHCR spokesperson Olga Sarrado.

    Support slashed from Niger to Ukraine

    In camps hosting Myanmar’s Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh, education for some 230,000 children could now be suspended. Meanwhile in Lebanon “UNHCR’s entire health programme is at risk of being shuttered by the end of the year”, Ms. Hyde continued.

    In Niger and other emergency settings, cuts in financial aid for shelter have left families in overcrowded structures or at risk of homelessness. In Ukraine, financial aid has also been slashed, “leaving uprooted families unable to afford rent, food or medical treatment”, Ms. Hyde noted.

    Assistance to returning Afghans has also become another victim of the global aid cuts. Around 1.9 million Afghan nationals have returned home or been forced back since the start of the year, “but financial aid for returnees is barely enough to afford food, let alone rent, undermining efforts to ensure stable reintegration”, UNHCR said.

    Legal aid halted

    Overall, several UNHCR operations hit by severe funding gaps have now had to curtail investments in strengthening asylum systems and promoting regularization efforts.

    In Colombia, Ecuador, Costa Rica and Mexico, any prolonged lack of legal status means prolonged insecurity for people on the move, the UN agency said. This results in deepening poverty “as refugees are excluded from formal employment and greater exposure to exploitation and abuse,” Ms. Hyde explained.

    Approximately one in three of the agency’s 550 offices around the world has been impacted by the cuts, Ms. Hyde told journalists in Geneva:

    “We’re not in a position to do so much contingency planning; what we’re able to do is make decisions on priorities – and at this point the priorities as I mentioned are dramatic.”

    For 2025 UNHCR needs $10.6 billion. Only 23 per cent of this amount has been provided.

    “Against this backdrop, our teams are focusing efforts on saving lives and protecting those forced to flee,” Ms. Hyde said. “Should additional funding become available, UNHCR has the systems, partnerships and expertise to rapidly resume and scale up assistance.”

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Member Frankel Votes to Protect Life-Saving Foreign Assistance, Vital Public Broadcasting

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21)

    Tonight, Representative Lois Frankel (FL-22), Ranking Member of the U.S. House Appropriations Subcommittee on National Security, Department of State and Related Programs released the following statement after voting against the Republicans’ rescissions package, a bill that claws back $9 billion in life-saving humanitarian and development funding and trusted public broadcasting. 

    “I voted no because this bill marks a dangerous turn toward indifference, isolation, and the betrayal of our global responsibilities,” said Ranking Member Frankel. “It guts programs that have saved lives, opened markets, and prevented conflict for decades. Through defunding of public broadcasting, it will leave millions of Americans less informed and less prepared for disasters.”

    “Worse yet, this bill signs away Congress’s power of the purse and hands it squarely to Donald Trump.

    This won’t lower costs for American families or shrink the deficit. But it will make the world more dangerous—and make our country less safe, less secure, less prosperous and less respected in the world.”

    Congresswoman Frankel’s remarks delivered on the House Floor are here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Peters, Johnson Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Digitize the Permitting Process

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Scott Peters (52nd District of California)

    The ePermit Act would digitize the permitting process across the federal government

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Scott Peters (D-CA) and Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) introduced the bipartisan ePermit Act to digitize the United States permitting process, reducing processing time for all federal permits, including National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) reviews.

    In April, President Trump published a memorandum to emphasize the importance of modernizing permitting technology. This process began under the Biden Administration in the codification of an e-NEPA study that explored the creation of a digital permitting system. The ePermit Act builds on this momentum and provides legislative clarity and direction on how agencies should implement such an electronic permitting system.

    “Our permitting system is old, complicated, and slow — if we want to build the infrastructure, roads, bridges, broadband, and clean energy of the future, we need to modernize and streamline the permit process,” said Peters. “Our bipartisan ePermit Act builds on the efforts of the last two administrations and brings our permitting process into the 21st century. I look forward to working with Representative Johnson to pass this commonsense bill into law.”

    “The government, industries, and citizens all agree that it takes too long to build in America,” said Johnson. “Completing the permitting process by paper is an archaic waste of time. Digitizing the system will speed up the process, save federal dollars, and cut down delays. Making this commonsense change will unleash investment in American communities and workers.”

    Background:

    The current permitting process has failed to ensure project permitting is on-time and on-task. Oftentimes, the root causes of delays in the environmental review process have little to do with questions about environmental protection and a lot to do with failure to embrace modern technology and move on from legacy bureaucratic approaches, like paper forms.

    Congress must address the root causes for delays, which include compiling and reviewing lengthy paper documents, a lack of accessibility and transparency – leading to misunderstanding, conflicts, and all too often, protracted litigation – and continued reliance on outdated technologies and processes for interagency review and comment.

    The ePermit Act would address these root causes by establishing a framework for agencies to implement a digital permitting system and unified portal.

    Click here for bill text.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Trahan Opposes Trump Effort to Defund Emergency Broadcasts, Sesame Street

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Lori Trahan (D-MA-03)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congresswoman Lori Trahan (MA-03) issued the following statement after voting against President Donald Trump’s dangerous rescissions package that will cut $1.1 billion in funding for public television and radio stations, threatening at least 10 local news stations in Massachusetts, undermining emergency alert systems, and jeopardizing valuable educational programming for families and children:
    “Public broadcasting isn’t just Big Bird and Sesame Street – it’s how families in Massachusetts and across the country get lifesaving emergency alerts, stay connected to their communities, and access trusted educational programming. Slashing support for public radio and television will silence local newsrooms, especially in rural areas, and undermine the emergency broadcast systems we rely on in times of crisis.”
    “We saw the consequences of weakened alert systems during the catastrophic floods in Texas. Communities were caught flat-footed, in part because they lacked access to timely, reliable emergency broadcasts. Contrast that with what we saw just yesterday in Alaska, where public broadcasters immediately issued alerts after a powerful 7.3 magnitude offshore earthquake, potentially saving lives. These two realities show exactly what’s at stake. If these cuts move forward, the Trump administration will be making a conscious choice to leave communities more vulnerable, more isolated, and less safe.”
    “I voted no because I will always stand up for public safety, for local journalism, and for the families who depend on these vital services every single day.”
    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ingrid Yeung visits CEDD

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for the Civil Service Ingrid Yeung today visited the Civil Engineering & Development Department to learn about the department’s progress in optimising operational efficiency and services through the application of technology, as well as its work in slope safety safety and landslip prevention and mitigation.

     

    Mrs Yeung met Director of Civil Engineering & Development Michael Fong and directorate staff to learn about the key initiatives of the Civil Engineering Office, the Geotechnical Engineering Office (GEO) and regional development offices.

     

    She also met staff representatives from various grades in the department to hear about matters of concern to them.

     

    Mrs Yeung said the expectations on the civil service from the community are constantly rising and that the challenges posed by extreme weather are becoming increasingly severe.

     

    “I hope my colleagues will continue to strive for excellence, review workflows to enhance efficiency and effectiveness, and respond to changes with smart innovations. This will strengthen the public’s sense of fulfilment, happiness and security.”

     

    During Mrs Yeung’s visit to the GEO Emergency Control Centre, officers showed her the “Common Operation Picture” developed and managed by the department.

     

    The electronic system facilitates the sharing of real-time information among different government departments to assist in monitoring emergencies such as landslides, flooding and fallen trees, and to enhance contingency co-ordination.

     

    The GEO maintains a 24-hour, year-round emergency service, providing geotechnical advice to rescue teams and government departments on any emergency actions to be taken to deal with danger arising from landslides.

     

    Mrs Yeung also learned that the department started a trial run of its in-house developed, AI-empowered Landslip Warning System this year.

     

    The new system can further enhance the accuracy of the predicted number of landslides during heavy rainstorms, thereby improving landslide risk assessment and early warning capabilities.

     

    In addition, officers responsible for planning and terrain evaluation briefed Mrs Yeung on the Digital Aerial Photograph Interpretation System launched last year.

     

    The system digitalises historical aerial photographs and centralises such imagery on an instantly accessible digital platform.

     

    It not only allows government departments and related organisations to remotely search, view and analyse high-resolution 3D data, but it also empowers professionals to map and visualise 3D terrains to support related research relating to slope safety management and land planning.

     

    The system also eliminates the need to store physical photographs, and helps to shorten construction times, reduce construction costs, and promote environmental efficiency.

     

    The department’s staff also spoke about their efforts to enhance the speed and efficiency in order to support the development of the Northern Metropolis.

     

    The Northern Metropolis is located in a geologically complex area with very limited engineering data. To speed up development and minimise the work required across different projects, the GEO has initiated a regional ground investigation study in the Northwest New Territories, which involves carrying out ground drilling and rock load tests in strategic areas.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HK’s appeal showcased in Qingdao

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Immersive Hong Kong roving exhibition, showcasing Hong Kong’s diversity and its latest developments, opened in Qingdao.

     

    Themed “Hong Kong – Where the World Looks Ahead”, the exhibition invites visitors from Qingdao and elsewhere in Shandong to explore Hong Kong’s unique opportunities and potential in tourism, education, business and investment.

     

    It comprises five thematic zones: Financial Bridgehead; I&T Brain Bank’ Blossoming Creativity; Diversity & Greenery; and Buzzing Sports Action. These feature interactive art projections, light box installations and naked-eye 3D displays, all representing the distinctive appeal of Hong Kong.

     

    At today’s opening ceremony, Director of Information Services Apollonia Liu explained that as 2025 marks the 10th anniversary of the Belt & Road Summit – which is hosted each year by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region – three Belt & Road node cities on the Mainland were specially selected as locations for this year’s Immersive Hong Kong exhibition.

     

    The exhibition visited Shanghai last month. Qingdao is the second stop, and will be followed by Chengdu.

     

    Mrs Liu expressed hope that the exhibition will provide an opportunity for Qingdao residents to experience Hong Kong’s charm and spark their interest in visiting the city.

     

    Introducing the exhibition’s highlights, Mrs Liu said the Buzzing Sports Action zone serves as pre-event publicity for the 15th National Games, due to be co-hosted by Hong Kong, Guangdong and Macau in November. She remarked that Hong Kong’s cultural and tourism appeal, and various other developments in the city, are showcased in the exhibition through naked-eye 3D displays and interactive games.

     

    With Qingdao having been part of Hong Kong’s Individual Visit Scheme since March last year, Mrs Liu stressed that in addition to boosting tourism-related industries in Hong Kong, the scheme has been successful in fostering cultural integration and people-to-people bonds between Qingdao and Hong Kong.

     

    As the two cities are linked by multiple direct flights operating daily, an excellent foundation has been laid for deepening tourism co-operation, promoting the sharing of resources and facilitating the two-way flow of visitors, she added.

     

    The Immersive Hong Kong roving exhibition, organised by the Information Services Department, runs from today to July 27 at Lion Mall in Qingdao. Admission is free.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Around the Air Force: Resolute Force Pacific, Resolute Space 2025, Autonomous Collaborative Platforms

    Source: United States Air Force

    In this week’s look around the Air Force, PACAF conducts its largest contingency-response exercise with REFORPAC, Guardians prepare to demonstrate Space Force capabilities with Resolute Space 2025 and the Air Force advances human machine teaming by flying ACPs alongside crewed fighter aircraft.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Onfolio Holdings Inc. Launches Strategic Partnership Program to Accelerate Growth for Content Creators

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WILMINGTON, Del., July 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Onfolio Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: ONFO, ONFOW) (OTC: ONFOP) (“Onfolio” or the “Company”) today announced the official launch of a strategic partnership program designed to help content creators scale their businesses through hands-on support, shared expertise, and resource investments. In return, the Company will earn a share of the incremental revenue generated through each partnership.

    The program targets digital educators, course creators, and knowledge entrepreneurs who excel in creating high-quality content but often lack the marketing infrastructure, financial strategy, or operational capacity needed to unlock exponential growth. By combining the creator’s talent with Onfolio’s proven expertise in scaling information product businesses, the partnership model creates a mutually beneficial path to long-term value creation.

    “Many course creators are brilliant educators and product builders, but they struggle with the business side, especially marketing, automation, and monetization,” said Dominic Wells, CEO of Onfolio. “This program allows us to deploy our team, playbook, and resources to help them reach their full potential – while also building a strong, recurring revenue stream for our business.”

    Onfolio has a track record of success in the digital education space, and this new initiative reflects its continued focus on scalable, asset-light growth opportunities with high margins and long-term upside. The Company is actively onboarding partners and expects to announce its first cohort of creators in the coming weeks.

    For more information, visit www.onfolio.com/course-growth/

    About Onfolio Holdings Inc.

    Onfolio acquires, operates, and scales a diversified portfolio of digital companies. The Company focuses on businesses with strong cash flows, long-term growth potential, and experienced leadership—or those that can be effectively managed by Onfolio’s in-house team. By targeting under-optimized businesses with untapped potential, Onfolio adds value through operational expertise, strategic guidance, and advanced technologies. For more information, visit www.onfolio.com.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    The information posted in this release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. You can identify these statements by use of the words “may,” “will,” “should,” “plans,” “explores,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “continues,” “estimates,” “projects,” “intends,” and similar expressions. Examples of forward-looking statements include, among others, statements we make regarding expected operating results, such as revenue growth and earnings, and strategy for growth and financial results. Forward-looking statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based only on our current beliefs, expectations and assumptions regarding the future of our business, future plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, the economy and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control. Our actual results and financial condition may differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause our actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements include, among others, the following: general economic and business conditions, effects of continued geopolitical unrest and regional conflicts, competition, changes in technology and methods of marketing, delays in completing new customer offerings, changes in customer order patterns, changes in customer offering mix, continued success in technological advances and delivering technological innovations, delays due to issues with outsourced service providers, those events and factors described by us in Item 1.A “Risk Factors” in our most recent Form 10-K and Form 10-Q and other risks to which our Company is subject, and various other factors beyond the Company’s control. Any forward-looking statement made by us in this press release is based only on information currently available to us and speaks only as of the date on which it is made. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.

    Company Contact:
    Investor Communications
    Onfolio Holdings Inc.
    Investors@Onfolio.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Earn $5,477 Daily! Dogecoin’s Comeback & PaxMining’s Cloud Mining Revolution

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    London, UK, July 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The meme-inspired cryptocurrency Dogecoin is witnessing remarkable growth in 2025, with steadily climbing prices fueled by increasing retail and institutional interest. Originally created as a Bitcoin alternative, Dogecoin’s user-friendly nature and strong community continue to attract new investors.

    Amid accelerating global cryptocurrency adoption, PaxMining – the London-based cloud mining leader established in 2017 – delivers secure, sustainable mining solutions powered entirely by renewable energy. The platform’s award-winning technology eliminates hardware requirements and maintenance complexities while optimizing returns through AI efficiency. Utilizing hydro, solar and wind power, PaxMining maintains profitability while setting new sustainability standards in crypto mining.

    Serving 8+ million users across 190 countries, PaxMining has become a trusted mining partner. Its intuitive platform, driven by AI technology and 99.99% renewable energy, enables effortless mining of Dogecoin and other major cryptocurrencies. As Dogecoin’s popularity surges, PaxMining emerges as the premier choice for investors at all experience levels seeking accessible mining opportunities.

    Why Dogecoin and Cloud Mining Are a Perfect Match

    Dogecoin’s low transaction fees and fast confirmation times make it an attractive option for miners seeking high-frequency rewards. Unlike traditional mining, which requires significant upfront investment and energy costs, PaxMining cloud-based approach allows users to rent computing power and earn daily payouts with minimal effort. This model aligns perfectly with Dogecoin’s ethos of accessibility, enabling anyone to participate in the crypto boom.

    The platform’s eco-friendly infrastructure, powered by hydropower and solar energy, ensures sustainable mining operations, reducing costs and environmental impact. As Dogecoin’s value continues to rise, PaxMining’s “mine-and-hold” strategy offers users a reliable way to generate passive income in a volatile market.

    PAXMINING Cloud Mining Platform – 6 Key Advantages

    • Multi‑Currency Support: Supports over 9 major cryptocurrencies, including XRP, BTC, ETH, USDT, USDC, SOL, DOGE, LTC, and BCH
    • Global Reach & Large User Base: Over 8 million registered users in 190+ countries.
    • No Hardware Needed: Operates 70+ high-performance mining farms worldwide—no user maintenance required
    • Green Energy Powered: Mining sites run on renewable energy—wind, solar, and hydro—supporting carbon‑neutral goals.
    • High, Transparent Returns: Offers a variety of mining plans to suit different risk and return preferences.

    How to quickly start the PaxMining cloud mining journey?

    • Register an account and get a $15 reward immediately
    • Choose a personalized computing power contract

    Whether you are a novice or an experienced investor, PaxMining offers a variety of computing power contracts. You can choose the most suitable plan for you according to your budget and profit goals to maximize every penny. Stable income contract:

    Contract Project Investment Amount The term Total revenue
    WhatsMiner M50S+ $100 2days $100+$6
    Canaan Avalon miner A14 $500 7days $500+$43.40
    WhatsMiner M60S+ $1,300 15days $1,300+$253.5
    ALPH Miner AL1 $3,500 30days $3,500+$948‬
    Bitcoin Miner S21 XP Imm  $8,000 35days $8,000+$4424
    Bitcoin Miner S21 XP Hyd $12,800 40 days $12,800+$8,601

    （For more contracts, please visit PAXMINING official website）

    Secure and Transparent Mining with PaxMining

    PaxMining prioritizes user security with enterprise-grade encryption and two-factor authentication, ensuring the safety of funds and data. The platform’s real-time dashboard offers full transparency, allowing users to track computing power, earnings, and transaction history. By leveraging green energy, PaxMining aligns with global sustainability goals, making it an environmentally responsible choice for crypto enthusiasts.

    “Dogecoin’s resurgence highlights the growing demand for accessible crypto solutions,” said a PaxMining spokesperson. “Our platform makes it easy for anyone to mine Dogecoin and other cryptocurrencies, combining profitability with sustainability.”

    Future Outlook

    With Dogecoin gaining traction and the cryptocurrency market expanding, PaxMining is set to introduce enhanced multi-currency mining options and AI-driven yield optimization in 2025. The company remains committed to empowering its global community with innovative, eco-friendly, and profitable mining opportunities.

    Conclusion
    “When computing power breaks free from the shackles of carbon, true financial inclusion begins.”
    PAXMINING is redefining the essence of cloud mining—not merely as a business, but as a global experiment in the future of sustainable finance. By transforming zero-carbon infrastructure into user cost advantages, incorporating regulatory uncertainty into hedging models, and converti ng institutional trends into ecosystem-level gains, PAXMINING is pioneering a new paradigm for the industry.

    For more information or to get started with your mining contract, visit:

    https://paxmining.com or (click to download the mobile app)
    For direct inquiries, contact:
    info@paxmining.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: F&M Bank Announces Board Leadership Transition: Andrew Briggs to Step Down as Chairman, Kevin J. Sauder Named Successor

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ARCHBOLD, Ohio, July 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — F&M Bank (“F&M”), an Archbold, Ohio-based bank owned by Farmers & Merchants Bancorp, Inc. (Nasdaq: FMAO), announced that Andrew Briggs, Chairman of the Board, will step down from his position as part of a plan he initiated. Briggs, who has served on the Board for seven years and as Chairman since 2024, will continue serving as a director through his retirement from the Board in 2026 and will work closely with newly appointed Chairman, Kevin J. Sauder, to ensure a seamless transition.

    Sauder, who currently serves as Vice Chairman of the Board and is Retired President & CEO of Sauder Woodworking Co., has been named Chairman of the Board, effective today. A member of F&M’s Board since 2004, Sauder brings extensive leadership experience, deep community ties, and a strong commitment to the mission and values of F&M Bank. He and Briggs will work together over the coming year to support board continuity and strategic momentum.

    “Andrew’s guidance has been instrumental in helping F&M expand our footprint and deepen our community relationships,” said Lars B. Eller, President and CEO of F&M Bank. “He has been a passionate advocate for our employees, customers, and shareholders. His dedication to ensuring a smooth and collaborative transition is a reflection of his deep commitment to F&M’s future.”

    Eller added, “Kevin is a thoughtful, strategic leader who understands the importance of relationship banking in the communities we serve. His business acumen, integrity, and vision make him an ideal successor. I look forward to working with Kevin in his new role as Chairman as we continue building on the strong foundation Andrew helped establish.”

    Throughout his tenure, Briggs has played a vital role in advancing F&M’s strategic vision, supporting its community banking mission, and strengthening its governance. His leadership has positioned the bank for continued growth and sustained value for all stakeholders.

    About F&M Bank:
    F&M Bank is a local independent community bank that has been serving its communities since 1897. F&M Bank provides commercial banking, retail banking and other financial services. Our locations are in Butler, Champaign, Fulton, Defiance, Hancock, Henry, Lucas, Shelby, Williams, and Wood counties in Ohio. In Northeast Indiana, we have offices located in Adams, Allen, DeKalb, Jay, Steuben and Wells counties. The Michigan footprint includes Oakland County, and we have Loan Production Offices in Troy, Michigan; Muncie, Indiana; and Perrysburg and Bryan, Ohio.

    Safe harbor statement
    Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements by F&M, including management’s expectations and comments, may not be based on historical facts and are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21B of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Actual results could vary materially depending on risks and uncertainties inherent in general and local banking conditions, competitive factors specific to markets in which F&M and its subsidiaries operate, future interest rate levels, legislative and regulatory decisions, capital market conditions, or the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, and its impacts on our credit quality and business operations, as well as its impact on general economic and financial market conditions. F&M assumes no responsibility to update this information. For more details, please refer to F&M’s SEC filing, including its most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. Such filings can be viewed at the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov or through F&M’s website www.fm.bank.

    Company Contact: Investor and Media Contact:
    Lars B. Eller
    President and Chief Executive Officer
    Farmers & Merchants Bancorp, Inc.
    (419) 446-2501
    leller@fm.bank    		 Andrew M. Berger
    Managing Director
    SM Berger & Company, Inc.
    (216) 464-6400
    andrew@smberger.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BAY Miner Unveils Cutting-Edge App: Transform Smartphones into Seamless Bitcoin Mining Devices Starting Today

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    London, United Kingdom, July 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In a transformative leap for the digital economy, BAY Miner, a UK-based blockchain company, today announced the official launch of its groundbreaking mobile application that turns any modern smartphone into a powerful cloud-based Bitcoin mining tool. This next-generation app marks a major milestone in democratizing access to cryptocurrency mining, eliminating the need for traditional mining hardware, high power consumption, and complicated setups.

    Designed for mass adoption, BAY Miner’s mobile platform opens the door for users worldwide to mine Bitcoin and other top cryptocurrencies through a secure, automated, and eco-efficient infrastructure. Whether you’re a crypto enthusiast or a newcomer seeking to build a passive income stream, BAY Miner offers an all-in-one solution that requires no technical expertise—only a smartphone and an internet connection.

    Redefining the Mining Landscape with Mobile Accessibility

    Historically, cryptocurrency mining has been reserved for individuals or corporations equipped with specialized hardware and access to cheap electricity. BAY Miner is disrupting that narrative by offering a mobile-first cloud mining experience that removes those barriers entirely.

    Through the BAY Miner app, users can lease professional-grade mining power hosted in secure, energy-efficient data centers. These mining operations are powered by renewable energy and managed by blockchain experts—ensuring optimal efficiency, sustainability, and profitability. The mobile interface allows users to select mining plans, monitor real-time performance, and withdraw earnings—all in just a few taps.

    How BAY Miner Works: A Five-Step Mining Journey

    Sign Up Instantly and Receive $15
    Visit https://bayminer.com/, create a free account, and immediately receive a $15 welcome bonus—no upfront investment required.

    Select a Tailored Mining Plan
    Choose from a variety of flexible mining contracts designed for different budgets, risk profiles, and return objectives. Plans range from short-term packages to long-term earning strategies.

    Deposit with Trusted Cryptocurrencies
    Fund your mining account using BTC, ETH, XRP, USDT, DOGE, LTC, BCH, or SOL. All deposits are blockchain-verified and protected by multi-layer encryption.

    Automated Cloud Mining Activation
    Once funded, your mining operation activates automatically—no manual configuration needed. Mining starts immediately and runs 24/7 in the background.

    Withdraw Daily Earnings or Reinvest
    Your account is credited with daily mining rewards, which you can withdraw to your crypto wallet once your balance reaches $100 or reinvest to accelerate earnings.

    USD-Based Pricing for Volatility Protection

    To ensure maximum stability, BAY Miner uses USD-based contract pricing while allowing deposits in multiple cryptocurrencies. This structure locks the investment value at the time of purchase, shielding users from crypto market fluctuations. Withdrawals are automatically converted back into the user’s preferred cryptocurrency.

    Supported deposit options include:

    • Bitcoin (BTC)
    • Ethereum (ETH)
    • XRP
    • Tether (USDT – ERC20 & TRC20)
    • Dogecoin (DOGE)
    • Litecoin (LTC)
    • Bitcoin Cash (BCH)
    • Solana (SOL)

    Institutional-Grade Security and Global Support

    Security remains a top priority at BAY Miner. The platform integrates advanced cybersecurity protocols including SSL encryption, DDoS protection, multi-factor authentication (2FA), and real-time transaction monitoring. Users’ funds and personal data are safeguarded with the same level of protection used by leading financial institutions.

    Moreover, BAY Miner offers 24/7 multilingual customer support, ensuring a seamless experience for users in over 150 countries. Whether mining in North America, Asia, Europe, or Africa, customers can access professional assistance in real-time.

    Why BAY Miner Is Poised to Lead in 2025

    As global interest in digital assets grows and inflation continues to erode traditional savings, secure and passive income opportunities are increasingly sought after. BAY Miner provides:

    • A user-friendly mining platform with over 5 million registered users
    • Operations spanning 160+ countries
    • Green mining powered by clean energy sources
    • Real-time earnings and flexible withdrawal options
    • Trusted brand backed by blockchain professionals

    By leveraging mobile-first technology and sustainable mining infrastructure, BAY Miner is helping individuals worldwide take control of their financial futures—without the traditional costs and complexities of mining.

    Ready to Earn Bitcoin with Zero Complexity?

    The future of decentralized income is here. With BAY Miner, users can now earn cryptocurrency securely, passively, and sustainably—anytime, anywhere. Whether you’re starting your crypto journey or expanding your portfolio, BAY Miner provides a low-risk, high-reward entry into the digital economy.

    Email: info@bayminer.com
    Official Website: https://bayminer.com

    App Download: https://bayminer.com/xml/index.html#/app

    Start mining smarter. Start mining with BAY Miner.

    Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release does not constitute an investment solicitation, nor does it constitute investment advice, financial advice, or trading recommendations. Cryptocurrency mining and staking involve risks and the possibility of losing funds. It is strongly recommended that you perform due diligence before investing or trading in cryptocurrencies and securities, including consulting a professional financial advisor.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Nick Langworthy Applauds President Trump’s Order for Full Transparency on Epstein Files, Slams Democrats’ Obstruction

    Source: US Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Nick Langworthy released the following statement after the House Rules Committee advanced H.Res. 589 and President Donald J. Trump ordered the Attorney General to release all grand jury testimony related to the Epstein files:

     

    “I fully support President Trump’s call for ultimate transparency and applaud his order to release all grand jury testimony connected to the Epstein case. This is a bold and necessary move to deliver long-overdue justice to the victims and expose every criminal involved in this horrific abuse. I salute him for taking decisive action where others have failed.

     

    “I proudly joined my Republican colleagues in advancing H.Res. 589 to demand the full release of all credible Epstein documents—while safeguarding the privacy and dignity of the victims. Every individual who committed crimes—especially against minors—must face the full force of the law.

     

    “Democrats had four years under the Biden Administration to pursue the truth, and they chose to do absolutely nothing. This week, they attempted a cynical political stunt that wouldn’t have released a single file. I voted no because it was a gimmick—not a path to justice. They had another chance to do the right thing last night. Instead, they once again chose obstruction and silence.

     

    “House Republicans are taking real action to uncover the truth, hold the guilty accountable, and ensure the victims finally receive justice. With President Trump’s leadership, the stonewalling ends now. The American people deserve to know the full truth—and we will not stop until they have it.”

     

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Mann Saves Kansas Families $9 Billion

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Tracey Mann (Kansas, 1)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) voted to advance H.R. 4, the Rescissions Act of 2025. The bill, which passed in the U.S. House of Representatives by a vote of 216-213, codifies the Trump Administration’s rescissions request, clawing back $9 billion in federal spending. Rep. Mann released the following statement after the vote:

    “President Trump ran on three things—securing the border, lowering taxes, and uprooting wasteful, fraudulent, and abusive spending,” said Rep. Mann. “For years, President Obama and President Biden talked about our bloated national debt and tried to push more taxes on hard-working Americans. President Trump is the first president in two decades to actually do something about our debt and roll back wasteful spending. Sending billions of Americans’ tax dollars overseas for LGBTQ movements, voter ID initiatives, and Green New Deal efforts isn’t just wasteful, it’s highway robbery. I was proud to claw back this wasteful spending to steward Kansans’ hard earned tax dollars well and begin to restore fiscal responsibility in our country.”

    President Trump’s rescissions package rescinds $9 billion in federal spending for programs including: 

    • $167,000 for free education and healthcare to Ecuadorian and Venezuelan migrants

    •  $889,000 for electoral reforms and voter education in Kenya

    • $1 million for voter ID in Haiti

    • $33,000 for “Being LGBTI in the Caribbean”

    • $643,000 for LGBTQI+ programs in the Western Balkans

    • $567,000 for LBGTQI+ programs in Uganda

    • $8,000 for promoting vegan food in Zambia

    • $500,000 for electric buses in Rwanda

    • $1 million for programs to strengthen the resilience of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, and queer global movements

    • $3 million for Iraqi Sesame Street

    •  $2.5 million for teaching young children how to make environmentally friendly “reproductive health” decisions

    •  $2.1 million for climate resilience in Southeast Asia, Latin America, and East Africa

    • $3 million for circumcision, vasectomies, and condoms in Zambia

    • $833,000 for services for “transgender people, sex workers and their clients and sexual networks” in Nepal

    H.R. 4 will now go to White House for the President’s signature.  

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UKHSA issues warning over botulism

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    UKHSA issues warning over botulism

    UKHSA warns public to be alert to botulism following adverse reactions to cosmetic procedures involving botulinum toxin.

    UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is warning people to be aware of the signs and symptoms of botulism after a small number of individuals presented to NHS healthcare settings following adverse reactions after receiving cosmetic procedures involving botulinum toxin.

    The cases are in addition to those recently diagnosed in the North East region and relate to procedures carried out in the East of England and East Midlands. To date, 38 cases of iatrogenic botulism have been reported between 4 June and 14 July 2025.  

    As yet there are no known links between the newly diagnosed cases and those in the North East.

    Investigations are ongoing but evidence so far suggests the use of an unlicensed Botox-like product. It is understood that those practitioners involved in this latest incident have ceased the procedure and are co-operating with the ongoing investigation.

    Reactions have included:

    • difficulty swallowing
    • slurred speech
    • breathing difficulty requiring respiratory support

    UKHSA has issued national advice to clinicians to ensure that they look out for botulism in people who may have had a recent aesthetic procedure, in order to provide them appropriate treatment which includes giving anti-toxin.

    UKHSA is also advising people to take precautions when seeking aesthetic procedures, including checking if the product being used is licensed.

    Dr Gauri Godbole, Consultant Medical Microbiologist at UKHSA, said:

    We are working closely with our partners to reduce the public health risk and would advise people to make sure they take precautions when seeking aesthetic procedures.

    Botulism related to aesthetic procedures is rare, but it can be serious. It is caused by toxins produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. These toxins (but not the bacteria) are the active ingredient in ‘Botox’ and similar products.

    Symptoms of botulism can take up to 4 weeks to develop and if you have had a recent botulinum toxin (Botox-like) treatment and are having symptoms such as difficulty swallowing or breathing, contact NHS 111 for further advice and seek treatment.

    If you are considering having a cosmetic procedure, please make sure to check that your practitioner is using a licensed product. On the NHS website there is more information on what sensible steps you can take when finding a practitioner.

    Professor Meghana Pandit, Co-National Medical Director secondary care at NHS England, said: 

    When these procedures go wrong, there is a risk of serious infections and permanent scarring, which is why only registered professionals like a doctor, a nurse or pharmacy prescriber should be prescribing these treatments.

    If you decide to undergo a cosmetic procedure like Botox or lip fillers, there is advice on the NHS.uk website on the questions to ask, including making sure that the person administering it is trained to do it.

    Dr Alison Cave, MHRA Chief Safety Officer said:

    Public safety is a top priority for the MHRA. Botulinum toxin is a prescription-only medicine and should only be sold or supplied in accordance with a prescription given by an appropriate practitioner such as a doctor or other qualified healthcare professional.

    Buying botulinum toxin in any other circumstances significantly increases the risk of getting a product which is either falsified or not licensed for use in the UK. This means that there are no safeguards to ensure products meet the MHRA’s standards for quality and safety. As such, they can endanger the health of the people who take them.

    Our Criminal Enforcement Unit works hard to identify those involved in the illegal trade in medicines and takes robust enforcement action where necessary. This can include criminal prosecution.

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Notice to improve: South Cumbria Multi-Academy Trust

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence

    Notice to improve: South Cumbria Multi-Academy Trust

    A notice to improve issued to South Cumbria Multi-Academy Trust by the Department for Education.

    Applies to England

    Documents

    Notice to improve: South Cumbria Multi-Academy Trust

    PDF, 147 KB, 8 pages

    Details

    This letter and its annex serve as a written notice to improve governance, financial governance and financial management at South Cumbria Multi-Academy Trust.

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 July 2025

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    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Official visit from Paraguayan President Santiago Peña to the UK

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Official visit from Paraguayan President Santiago Peña to the UK

    During the visit, a United Kingdom-Paraguay Friendship Charter was signed between both nations.

    President Peña delivering the Canning Lecture at Canning House

    Paraguayan President Santiago Peña visited the United Kingdom this week, marking a historic milestone in UK–Paraguay relations. The Paraguayan Head of State was received in audience by His Majesty King Charles III at Windsor Castle.

    The visit comes as the two countries celebrate over 170 years of diplomatic ties and reflects a shared commitment to deepening cooperation in key areas such as trade, sustainable investment, education, and climate action.

    Throughout the visit, President Peña engaged with high-level political, business and academic leaders. His agenda included a keynote address at Canning House, and a business roundtable with leading UK companies in the energy and technology sectors. 

    The Royal Audience with King Charles III, described by President Peña as a “historic moment,” underscored the mutual respect and shared values that continue to bind both nations. British Ambassador to Paraguay, Danielle Dunne, who accompanied the visit, stated: “It was an honour to witness this historic occasion. The UK and Paraguay are natural partners, and this visit demonstrates our shared commitment to sustainable and inclusive growth for our nations.” 

    During the visit, a United Kingdom-Paraguay Friendship Charter was signed between Paraguay’s Foreign Minister Rubén Ramírez Lezcano and British Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs David Lammy, committing both nations to enhanced cooperation across trade, security, democracy, climate action, and education. 

    This landmark visit marks a new chapter in UK–Paraguay relations. Trade between the two countries has grown significantly, with total goods and services exchange reaching £70 million in the last recorded period – a 42.9% increase from the previous year. President Peña’s visit reflects Paraguay’s growing strategic relevance as a reliable partner in Latin America, and the UK’s intention to strengthen diplomatic and commercial ties with nations committed to progress and shared prosperity.

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: What They Are Saying About the Modern Worker Empowerment Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Tim Scott

    Since U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) announced the Modern Worker Empowerment Act as a part of a package focused on giving independent contractors greater flexibility and benefits earlier this month, key national and South Carolina organizations have come out in support of passage of the bill. 

    “For decades, our laws have treated flexible work like a fallback, not a choice. Millions are building careers on their own terms—and they deserve benefits and protections that follow the worker, not the job. This legislation is a necessary step toward a future of work that actually reflects how people work today and creates more certainty for innovative companies looking to harness technology to democratize access to work.

    We commend Senators Scott, Cassidy, and Paul for advancing legislation that acknowledges the dignity of all work and helps create a more inclusive, responsive economy. This is where the future of work is headed—and policy should meet it there.” 

    – Regan Parker, Chief Legal and Public Affairs Officer, ShiftKey

    “Under the previous administration, truck drivers’ freedom came under fire when the Department of Labor published a rule that made it more difficult to operate independently, despite our home state of South Carolina’s clear language in this regard. We applaud Senator Scott for standing up for the rights of trucking entrepreneurs whose livelihoods were put in jeopardy.  His legislation will protect the integrity of our interstate supply chain and ensure that South Carolina truckers who choose to work as independent contractors will be able to continue to run their own small businesses and control their own hours and routes.”

    – Rick Todd, President & CEO, South Carolina Trucking Association 

    “The independent truckers who have spent years or even decades building their own small businesses deserve commonsense regulations that ensure their livelihoods will not be uprooted. Senator Scott has been a champion of the more than 350,000 Americans in trucking who chose this entrepreneurial pathway because of the economic opportunity it creates and the flexibility it provides.  ATA strongly supports his legislation to protect independent truckers, and we will continue to work alongside him and other Members of Congress to defend Americans’ right to earn a living in the manner that they choose.” 

    – Henry Hanscom, SVP of Legislative Affairs, American Trucking Associations 

    MIL OSI USA News –