NewzIntel.com

Category: CTF

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defendants Charged with Assaulting Federal Law Enforcement Officers, Other Offenses During Protest Near Spokane ICE Office

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Spokane, Washington – Nine defendants are scheduled to make their first appearances in federal court at 3 P.M. today after the return of an indictment alleging several charges – including assaulting a federal officer – during a protest gathering at the Homeland Security office in Spokane.

    Benjamin Theodore Stuckart, age 53, has been charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure Officers

    Justice Forral, age 33, has been charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure Officers

    Mikki Pike Hatfield, age 34, has been charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure Officers and Assault on a Federal Officer, Employee, or Person Assisting a Federal Officer (intent to cause another felony/use of a dangerous weapon)

    Erin Nicole Lang, age 31 has been charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure Officers

    Collin James Muncey, age 34 has been charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure Officers

    Thalia Marie Ramirez, age 20, has been charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure Officers

    Bobbi Lee Silva, age 38, has been charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure Officers and Assault on a Federal Officer, Employee, or Person Assisting a Federal Officer (physical contact / intent to cause another felony)

    Bajun Dhunjisha Mavalwalla II, age 35 has been charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure Officers

    Jac Dalitso Archer, age 33, has been charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure Officers

    “We respect and honor everyone’s right to peacefully protest. However, the few who choose to cross the line from protest to violence and destruction will be held accountable,” stated Acting United States Attorney Stephanie Van Marter. 

    According to court documents and information shared in court, on June 11, 2025, at approximately 12:52 pm, Stuckart posted on social media a call for others to come and join him as he blocked a bus that was going to be used to transport the federal detainees held at the federal facility in Spokane to Tacoma for their immigration hearings. Archer and other co-conspirators arrived in response to the post, and along with Stuckart, blocked the pathway and door to the transport bus, despite orders to disperse.

    As alleged in the indictment, a short time later, Forral parked his vehicle to block the exit path of the bus. Forral and Lang then released air from the tires of the bus, and other co-conspirators painted the windshield of the bus rendering it unsafe to drive.

    Archer reposted Stuckart’s call and posted additional calls urging others to come and join noting the intent was to “risk arrest to block the exits to ICE”.

    When federal officers attempted to leave the building through a secure parking lot on the south end of property, Forral, Hatfield, Muncey, Silva, Mavalwalla II, Archer, and other co-conspirators blocked the driveway and/or pushed against officers, despite orders to disperse and attempts to remove the defendants from the property. Silva struck a federal officer from behind as the officer was attempting to clear a path for transport vehicles to leave the building.

    Forral, Muncey, Hatfield, and other co-conspirators then placed trash cans, sand/cement bags, benches, signs, and other objects in front of doors and exits to block the exit of federal officers and detainees from the federal facility.

    After Spokane Police arrived, officers placed marked patrol vehicles in front of and behind a red transport van that was then designated to transport the detainees to Tacoma for their immigration hearings. The red van was quickly surrounded by Stuckart, Hatfield, Lang, Silva, and other co-conspirators. Ramirez, armed with a boxcutter, slashed the tires of the van, making it unsafe to drive.

    After dispersal orders issued by Spokane Police Department were ignored, the Spokane Police Department deployed crowd control measures to include inert smoke and pepper balls at the feet of those resistant to leave. According to the indictment, Hatfield picked one up one of those deployed incendiary devices and threw it in the direction of Spokane Police and Spokane County Sheriff’s Office deputies.

    Multiple calls for assistance were made to local law enforcement agencies. Because of the defendants’ actions, federal agents and the detainees, as well as civilian employees were unable to leave the facility, until approximately 9:00 PM, and only with the assistance of the Spokane Police Department S.W.A.T team.

    This case was investigated by the FBI and other federal agencies, including the USMS.

    An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    2:2025-cr-00113-RLP

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Londoners want an Assembly with more bite

    Source: Mayor of London

    66% of Londoners believe London Assembly powers should be
    strengthened or maintained if the office of the Mayor were given more devolved powers.

    In a YouGov survey commissioned by the GLA Oversight Committee as part of its investigation into London’s place in the Government’s proposed devolution reforms, Londoners answered questions about the powers of the Mayor of London and the cross-party London Assembly.

    When asked whether the London Assembly should get more or fewer powers if the office of the Mayor were to be given more devolved powers, a total of 66% of Londoners considered the Assembly’s position should be either maintained or increased – with 36% believing the London Assembly should get more powers and 30% thinking the role should stay the same. Only 5% think that the Assembly should have fewer powers.

    If the office of the Mayor of London were given more control over taxes raised in London, 41% of Londoners expressed support for the office of the Mayor of London to have control over a tourism levy (a potential tax on overnight stays or a surcharge on visitor attractions for overseas visitors).

    In terms of potential future devolved powers, regulating private rented accommodation (26%), NHS services (25%), and the criminal justice system and policing (25%) were three of the areas in which Londoners expressed strongest support for the office of the Mayor of London receiving more devolved powers, if they had to choose.

    Chair of the GLA Oversight Committee, Bassam Mahfouz AM, said:

    “As a world-leading global city, we’re looking at the question of devolution for London through the binoculars of how it compares to cities across the globe and how they exercise their powers.

    “This survey was our chance to hear directly from Londoners—and the message was clear. There’s considerable support for stronger powers, not just for the Office of Mayor, but also for the Assembly to hold them to account.

    “In addition to that, there was strong backing for some sort of tourism levy, just like other top destinations.

    “But most importantly, Londoners want to see the Office of the Mayor empowered to deliver on the issues that clearly matter to them, including regulation of the private rented sector and over the criminal justice system and policing.

    “All of this will feed into our report into how London’s powers could shape up over the next 25 years, which will be published once the investigation has been completed.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Waterbury Man Sentenced to 58 Months in Federal Prison for Firearm Offense

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOSE ANTONIO MOLINA-MONTALVO, 36, of Waterbury, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in New Haven to 58 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for a firearm offense.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, on October 15, 2024, Molina-Montalvo sold a Harrington & Richardson 1871 INC. Handi Rifle, and 39 rounds of ammunition, to an individual for $300.

    Molina-Montalvo’s criminal history includes state felony convictions for assault, possession with intent to sell narcotics, strangulation, harassment, burglary, and larceny.  It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.

    Molina-Montalvo has been detained since his arrest on unrelated state charges on October 21, 2024.  On March 28, 2025, he pleaded guilty in federal court to unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.

    This investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nathan J. Guevremont through Project Safe Neighborhoods (“PSN”), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and other violent crime, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit www.justice.gov/psn.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Cherokee County felon sentenced to federal prison for firearms violation

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    TYLER, Texas –A Rusk man has been sentenced to federal prison for a firearms violation in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.

    Justin Jones, 37, pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Jeremy D. Kernodle on July 15, 2025.

    According to information presented in court, on December 4, 2023, was seen driving on County Road 2120 in Cherokee County.  The Sheriff recognized Jones and attempted to stop him for an outstanding arrest warrant.  Jones abandoned his vehicle and fled the scene on foot.  A search of the abandoned vehicle revealed Jones’ cell phone, two rifles, and a pistol.  The phone also contained a photo of Jones holding one of the rifles.  Jones has several prior felony convictions, including four prior convictions for being a felon in possession of a firearm.  As a convicted felon, Jones is prohibited by federal law from owning or possessing firearms.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    This case was investigated by the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives – Tyler Field Office.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Noble.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jury Convicts Miami-Dade Detective Of Perjury During Hearing In Southern District Of Florida United States District Court

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Tampa, FL – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that a federal jury in Miami has found Keenan Johnson (36, Tamarac) guilty of three counts of perjury for false testimony he gave under oath during an evidentiary hearing in a criminal case before Chief Judge Cecilia Altonaga of the United States District Court in Miami on April 4, 2022. Johnson faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison on each count. His sentencing hearing is set for October 3, 2025, in Miami. Johnson was indicted on July 31, 2024.

    According to testimony and evidence presented during the five-day trial, Johnson, who was a homicide detective with the Miami-Dade Police Department, lied under oath on several occasions during a hearing on a motion to suppress evidence. When confronted by a witness regarding a telephone number he had given to the witness, Johnson denied the number was his, denied that he had spoken to the witness over the telephone, denied he had received text messages from the witness, and denied he had used the number on police flyers.

    At the conclusion of the suppression hearing, the judge asked the prosecutor to get to the bottom of the discrepancies regarding the use of the telephone number. Records obtained by investigators after the hearing ultimately showed that Johnson had the phone number for more than four years, had contact with the suppression hearing witness, had used the phone number the night before the suppression hearing for a more than 10-minute call, and had deleted the number after the suppression hearing.

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Miami and the Miami-Dade County Office of the Inspector General. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney E. Jackson Boggs Jr. of the Middle District of Florida. Boggs was appointed as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida for this case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Zoë Garbett response to the UK Supreme Court gender ruling

    Source: Mayor of London

    In response to the recent UK Supreme Court ruling, I want to express my unequivocal support and solidarity with the trans community in London.  

    Prior to this ruling, trans people already faced stark inequality. 57 per cent of trans people avoid going to the doctor when unwell, many have reported being denied same-gender officers during police searches, which can be invasive and distressing, and trans people often face discrimination when seeking housing and employment.  

    This shameful ruling works to further marginalise and exclude trans people, using the Supreme Court judgment as a tool to deny people access to basic facilities and vital services.  

    The fact that no trans organisations were represented at the Supreme Court ruling is extremely concerning. Many trans organisations and individuals have reported that the hearing was set up in a hostile way that discouraged their participation. How can we listen to a ruling that purposefully excluded the most marginalised group in our society in a decision that directly affects them?  

    Regardless of the various interpretations of the ruling, the message is clear – trans people are under attack.  

    Since the ruling, I, along with many fellow London Assembly Members, have received numerous emails from concerned constituents, anxious about the growing normalisation of transphobia and how this new judgment will impact their daily lives.  

    Disappointingly, the Mayor has remained silent, but now more than ever, in the face of vicious attacks and growing hostility, the Mayor must make a clear and public commitment to protect the rights and safety of all trans people.  

    As the Prime Minister publicly denies trans identities as he refutes his earlier statement from 2022 that “trans women are women”, and confidence in public bodies is justifiably shaken, London’s trans community deserves a Mayor actively advocating for their dignity, including the public bodies overseen by the Mayor. He has the power to ensure they do not implement harmful policies in light of this ruling; any decent Mayor would use this power to defend marginalised people under assault. 

    London is a city that attracts millions around the world, and it should be a welcoming and safe place for both trans visitors and trans Londoners alike.  

    I believe this ruling is discriminatory and could give people the license to push their bigotry and hate, but that doesn’t mean we have to go along with it. We don’t have to accept this interpretation of what gender is or isn’t, and we absolutely can and should resist it. 

    Zoë Garbett 

    Green Party London Assembly Member 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: US Departments of Labor, Education implement workforce development partnership

    Source: US Department of Labor

    WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. departments of Labor and Education announced the implementation of a workforce development partnership to create an integrated federal education and workforce system. The Labor Department will take on a greater role in administering the adult education and family literacy programs funded under Title II of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act and career and technical education programs funded by the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act. The programs will be managed alongside Department of Education staff, with continued leadership and oversight by Education. 

    The workforce development partnership marks a major step in shifting management of select Education Department programs to partner agencies. 

    “Our bloated federal bureaucracy has made it increasingly difficult to administer workforce development programs effectively, and our students and workers have been left behind as a result. Under President Trump’s leadership, we are restructuring to meet the needs of our workforce,” said U.S. Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer. “I’m excited to team up with Secretary McMahon as we work together to provide states with clearer guidance, reduced regulatory burdens, and more resources that are directly invested in opportunities for American workers.” 

    “The current structure with various federal agencies each managing pieces of the federal workforce portfolio is inefficient and duplicative. Support from the Department of Labor in administering the Department of Education’s workforce programs is a commonsense step in streamlining these programs to better serve students, families, and educators,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon. “I look forward to collaborating with Secretary Chavez-DeRemer to create a stronger talent pipeline for our nation’s workforce.” 

    Background 

    The Department of Education signed an Interagency Agreement with the Department of Labor on May 21. One day later, a Massachusetts District Judge granted a preliminary injunction to plaintiffs in McMahon v. New York, forcing the Department of Education to pause implementation of the IAA. Yesterday, the Supreme Court granted an emergency request to stay the injunction, allowing the Education Department to implement this IAA and proceed with the reduction in force to administer its programs more efficiently. 

    The workforce development partnership was created under an IAA, a tool routinely utilized by government agencies to share resources, collaborate, and ensure efficient service delivery. Under the partnership, the Labor Department will provide day-to-day administration of Education’s Perkins and WIOA Title II programs alongside the larger suite of workforce programs the Labor Department already administers. Administering Perkins V and WIOA Title I, II, and III through the Labor Department will facilitate streamlined services for states and grantees, such as allowing for a unified state plan portal and consistent timelines for submitting the required state plans for WIOA and Perkins. The Department of Education will maintain all statutory responsibilities and positions, policy authority, and oversight of these programs. 

    This shared effort will provide a coordinated federal education and workforce system, consistent with Executive Order No. 14278 signed on April 23, 2025. 

    The Department of Labor presently administers the majority of federally funded workforce programs. Greater involvement by the Labor Department in administration of these programs will give states central points of contact in the federal government, reducing duplication of effort and conflicting directives from different agencies. It will ensure more funds can be spent on workforce training and less on state and federal bureaucracy and compliance costs. 

    Education and Labor will provide states with additional guidance in the coming weeks as these changes are implemented. For any immediate program questions, state partners and grantees should reach out to their respective Employee and Training Administration or Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education points of contact. 

    Learn more about the Interagency Agreement. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: The Former Senior Costa Rican Official Has Been Charged, Arrested, and is Pending Extradition to the United States on International Drug Trafficking Charges

    Source: US FBI

    The former senior Costa Rican official has been charged, arrested, and is pending extradition to the United States on international drug trafficking charges

    A former Costa Rican government official and judge has been charged with federal drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.

    Celso Manuel Gamboa Sanchez, 49, was named in a federal indictment returned by a grand jury this week in the Eastern District of Texas charging him with manufacturing and distributing cocaine knowing it would be unlawfully imported into the United States and conspiracy.

    The indictment alleges that Gamboa Sanchez conspired with and assisted other international drug traffickers to manufacture, distribute, and transport significant quantities of cocaine, much of which was trafficked through Costa Rica and ultimately into the United States for further distribution. Gamboa Sanchez has held several governmental positions in Costa Rica, including Minister of Public Security in 2014, a position charged with overseeing crime prevention in the country, and judge from 2016 to 2018.  

    On June 23, 2025, Gamboa Sanchez was arrested in Costa Rica, pursuant to a provisional arrest warrant issued because of similar international drug trafficking charges alleged against Gamboa Sanchez in 2024 in the Eastern District of Texas. Also on June 23, 2025, Costa Rican officials arrested another alleged Costa Rican international narcotics trafficker, Edwin Danny Lopez Vega, who was an associate of Gamboa Sanchez, and indicted in the Eastern District of Texas.

    Both remain jailed in Costa Rica and are awaiting extradition to the United States. 

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    If convicted, Gamboa Sanchez and Lopez Vega face a minimum of ten years and a maximum of life in federal prison.

    This case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the North Texas Strike Force.  The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided substantial assistance.  This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Wes Wynne and Christopher Eason.

    A federal indictment is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Susan Hall AM Appointed Conservative Group Leader

    Source: Mayor of London

    The Conservative Group at City Hall has today announced that Susan Hall AM has been appointed as their new leader.

    In her new role, Hall will lead the Conservative opposition at City Hall, holding the Mayor’s administration to account whilst championing Conservative policies for the capital.

    Susan Hall AM said:

    “I am deeply honoured to lead City Hall’s Conservatives Group. London faces significant challenges, from tackling crime to delivering affordable housing, and Londoners deserve strong opposition that offers genuine alternatives.

    “My priority will be ensuring that City Hall focuses on the issues that matter most to ordinary Londoners – safer streets, value for taxpayers’ money, and practical solutions rather than ideological pursuits. We will be constructive where appropriate but firm in our scrutiny of the Mayor’s decisions.”

    The new Conservative leader will formally take up her position with immediate effect.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican National Sentenced to Federal Prison in Human Smuggling Conspiracy

    Source: US FBI

    TYLER, Texas –A Mexican national has been sentenced for illegally smuggling aliens through the United States, announced Eastern District of Texas Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.

    Octavio Hernandez-Hernandez, 50, a Mexican national illegally living in Austin, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to transport illegal aliens within the United States and was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge J. Campbell Barker on July 10, 2025.

    According to information presented in court, in 2022 and 2023, Hernandez-Hernandez conspired with others to transport illegal aliens from the Texas border to other locations throughout the United States. Hernandez-Hernandez provided instructions and directions to those who were transporting the illegal aliens, including some from Smith County.  Hernandez-Hernandez admitted to conspiring to smuggle at least 100 illegal aliens, including unaccompanied minors.                                                 

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    This case was investigated by the FBI; Department of Homeland Security-Immigration and Customs Enforcement; and Texas Department of Public Safety-Criminal Investigation Division.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alan Jackson.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Roanoke Man Pleads Guilty to Robbing Truist Banks

    Source: US FBI

    ROANOKE, Va. – A local man, who robbed multiple Truist Banks in October 2022, pled guilty today to a pair of federal charges.

    Michael Anthony McCoy, 67, of Roanoke, pled guilty today to one count of bank robbery with the use of a dangerous weapon and one count of bank robbery. 

    A second defendant, Dawn Davis, has previously pled guilty and will be sentenced later this year.

    According to court documents, McCoy directed Davis to write a threatening note to use in a bank robbery. After Davis wrote the note as directed, on October 26, 2022, McCoy entered the Truist Bank location on Melrose Avenue NW in the City of Roanoke and handed the note to a bank teller. After McCoy handed the note to the teller, he approached a second teller and brandished a firearm.

    McCoy stole approximately $6,485 from the Truist Bank location.

    Two days later, McCoy then robbed another Truist Bank on McClanahan Street SW, stealing nearly $6,000 from that bank as well.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Zachary T. Lee, Stephen Farina, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Division, and Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares made the announcement.

    The FBI and the City of Roanoke Police Department are investigating the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Scheff and Special Assistant United States Attorney John Beamer, an Assistant Attorney General with the Virginia Attorney General’s Major Crimes and Emerging Threats Section, are prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Joins Amicus Brief Opposing Trump’s Unconstitutional Dismantling of Department of Education

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    Trump’s Dismantling Of Department Of Education Puts In Jeopardy Critical Funding For Schools, Will Lead To Worse Outcomes For Students
    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) has joined her colleagues in Congress in filing an amicus brief in a lawsuit urging a federal court to stop Donald Trump from shutting down the U.S. Department of Education. The lawsuit argues that the President does not have the power to eliminate a government agency that Congress created, and that only Congress can make such a decision. The effort comes in response to actions by the Trump Administration to fire staff, cancel programs, and move key education functions to other parts of the government.
    “Donald Trump’s attempt to dismantle the Department of Education is not only unconstitutional—it’s a direct attack on students and teachers in Nevada who depend on its programs and funding to support our schools,” said Senator Rosen. “I’m proud to join this legal effort to fight back against Trump’s actions and ensure the federal government fulfills its responsibility to support public education, teachers, and students.”
    Senator Rosen has consistently fought to protect and strengthen public education. In March, she spoke out forcefully against President Trump’s plan to dismantle the Department of Education, calling it “an illegal, irresponsible attack on students and families” and warning of its harmful impact on Nevada schools. In April, she also condemned the Trump Administration’s proposal to eliminate Head Start funding, calling the cuts “outrageous and cruel” and pledging to defend early childhood education programs that help Nevada families thrive. In addition, Senator Rosen helped introduce legislation to fully fund the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), ensuring students with disabilities receive the support and resources they are legally entitled to in the classroom.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Assembly calls for ‘inclusive, safe and accessible’ streets in Mayoral plans for Oxford Street

    Source: Mayor of London

    The Mayor’s plans for Oxford Street should recognise the urgency of the climate crisis and prioritise streets that are inclusive, safe, and accessible for all Londoners.

    The London Assembly has today called on the Mayor to maximise the public purpose the Mayoral Development Area (MDA) and the Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC) can provide.

    Len Duvall OBE AM, who proposed the substantive motion, said:

    “The London Assembly Planning and Regeneration Committee’s scrutiny of the plans and its response to the Mayor’s consultation greatly assisted the wider Assembly in today’s debate.

    “The contribution of all Assembly Members also reflected the variety of opinions held by Londoners.”

    Caroline Russell AM, who proposed the amendment, said:

    “Pedestrianising Oxford Street is a huge step toward reimagining one of London’s most iconic streets for the public good, but how we pedestrianise matters just as much as whether we do it at all.

    “Transparency, inclusivity, and climate positivity should be at the forefront of this project and I’m glad the Assembly agrees with me and supported my amendment.

    “The Mayor must embed these principles throughout the transformation of Oxford Street so it becomes an accessible and distinctive space for all Londoners and visitors to enjoy.”

    The full text of the motion is:

    That the Assembly notes the Mayor’s Proposal to designate a Mayoral Development Area for Oxford Street. The Assembly also calls on the Mayor to maximise the public purpose the MDA and the MDC can provide by:

    • recognising the urgency of the climate crisis and so make the MDC a climate positive development;
    • ensure the MDC is truly publicly-owned and publicly-controlled in perpetuity, so space can be preserved for free public use, and small businesses and creative industries can flourish;
    • prioritising implementing Healthy Streets that are inclusive, safe and accessible for all Londoners, including providing world class public toilets; and
    • ensuring there is a routine inclusion of transparency clauses in all contracts and written agreements entered into by the Oxford Street MDC, for the purpose of both public interest and Assembly scrutiny.

    The meeting can be viewed via webcast or YouTube.

    Follow us @LondonAssembly

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Whole-of-Government, Whole-of-Society Approach Critical to Addressing Gender Equality, Executive Director Tells High-level Political Forum

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    Nearly a decade since the adoption of the 2030 Agenda, Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5 dedicated to achieving gender equality and empowerment of women and girls “remains the most off-track”, speakers told a United Nations high-level political forum today, calling for reinforced measures to accelerate progress against a tide of backsliding rights and opportunities.

    The first of two daily panels addressed “SDG 5 and interlinkages with other SDGs — Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls”, with Sima Sami Bahous, Executive Director of the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN-Women), warning that at the current pace, true gender equality in economic life, leadership and safety will remain generations away.  “That is unacceptable,” she stressed.

    With the growing erosion of rights, she called for a “push forward against the pushback” with investment in women and youth-led organizations and tackling misogyny head-on, be it online or off. Further, societies must invest in robust gender data systems that track real impact, ensure follow-up and address intersecting inequalities.  “What gets measured, gets done,” she stated.

    Offering concrete proposals, she urged stakeholders to work with Governments to advance nationally-owned development priorities.  A whole-of-Government, whole-of-society approach is needed, as gender equality cannot be the remit of one ministry or one actor.  Investment in care systems is critical, as unpaid care limits women’s full participation in economic and public life.  Further, the UN80 initiative — a unique opportunity to make the UN more effective, efficient and impactful for women and girls — can help propel gender equality forward, ensuring enhanced regional and cross-regional coordination and increasing efficiency.

    “A girl born today would see gender equality achieved in her ninety-seventh year” warned Albert Motivans, Head of Data and Insights at Equal Measures 2030 — a coalition of civil society organizations.  The backslide is being driven by numerous factors including a resource crunch, with less international financing, domestic austerity measures and declining household incomes.  He further highlighted a “democracy crunch”, as gender equality is closely linked with democracy, while its foundations worldwide are at risk due to rising economic inequality, social and political polarization, and the closing of civic space. Additionally, the “safety and security crunch” of rising conflict and militarization impacts women and girls in their choices and their personal safety.

    He called for elevating women’s and girls’ leadership, power and voices — noting the progress in parliamentary participation at 27 per cent.  Further, it is important to reform and adopt equality laws and policies to engage Governments and the wider public, and close gender-sensitive data gaps, with increased investment in public services and social infrastructure, including care.

    Further, “there is unequal access to education for women all over the world”, said Zara Khanna, Youth Ambassador for She Loves Tech, citing artificial intelligence (AI)-powered learning programmes as a “key tool to aid us in bridging the divide”.  They can approach students on an individual level, offering personalized feedback, which is especially important for those who face cultural and other barriers to gaining an education.  She spotlighted Khan Academy — a free AI-powered personalized tutor that offers a range of subjects, from English to math, or Rori, which was piloted in Ghana and is available on all mobile devices, as it operates via WhatsApp.  This is especially important, given that mobile penetration is extremely high; while 129 million girls lack access to education, 4.9 billion people worldwide have access to smartphones.

    Outlining solutions, she underscored the need to accelerate connectivity by distributing more Internet hotspots.  One single hotspot can power a village, and hundreds of girls can gain access to the wealth of knowledge available online. Additionally, more devices, such as smartphones and tablets, shall be distributed, so girls can access this knowledge.  She underscored that Governments must invest in creating culture and language-specific AI-powered programmes to cater to the job markets that these girls will be entering. Through early science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) intervention, mentorship programmes and more gender-neutral language, “we can all move together to reach SDG 5 by 2030” and “a more gender-neutral future”.

    Echoing those comments, Ms. Bahous cited the launch of the Beijing+30 Action Agenda, focused on six critical areas:  digital inclusion, freedom from poverty, zero violence, leadership, peace and security, and climate justice.  Cutting across these areas is engagement with young women and youth.  “These are not distant goals,” she stated.  “They are urgent demands from women and girls around the world”.

    Mr. Motivans also emphasized the importance of reinforcing the use of national and global gender data like those in the Equal Measures SDG Gender Index.  “But it’s not just to measure, it’s not just to count”, he said, noting the importance of evaluating not only the status of women and girls, but their impact on societies.  Data can identify blocks to progress and gaps in various Goals, unpaid care and reproductive rights.

    Recalling progress in countries implementing anti-discrimination laws, he noted that “Governments do that well” — but the next step requires ensuring that “equal opportunities for women and men” are met, as this is where countries may fall short.  He called for mobilizing a society-wide range of partners, developing value propositions to engage those working on the ground with expert knowledge of the issues faced by women and girls.

    […]

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Shock kiwi rediscovery delights conservation world

    Source: NZ Department of Conservation

    Date:  16 July 2025

    A spotty kiwi was first sighted in March by a DOC-contracted tahr hunter in the remote Adams Wilderness Area, West Coast. DOC Biodiversity Ranger Iain Graham and his conservation dog Brew were flown in to locate the bird.

    “I heard kiwi calling the first night – two of them duetting – and immediately knew they didn’t sound like other kiwi. It was exciting, but it took a few days to narrow down the area,” Iain says.

    Iain and Brew are part of DOC’s Air New Zealand supported Conservation Dogs programme. This programme mentors, certifies and supports dog-handler teams to detect New Zealand’s protected species or unwanted pests. 

    Iain says the trip was a bit of a rollercoaster.

    “We were in rough terrain, in typical West Coast weather, and I was running out of dry clothes. Brew would find a burrow, but I couldn’t get to the bird. We were so frustratingly close.

    “I was stoked when we finally caught up with the female on our final night, the absolute last chance before getting flown out.”

    Tiny feathers were collected from the small spotted kiwi to confirm what Iain suspected – the bird was a kiwi pukupuku.

    The smallest of the kiwi species, kiwi pukupuku are extremely vulnerable to introduced predators. Until now it was believed they only survived in offshore islands and fenced predator-free sites. An estimated 2000 of the threatened birds remain, though the population is increasing thanks to the conservation efforts of community groups, agencies, and tangata whenua.

    Kara Edwards of Kāti Māhaki ki Makaawhio says the find is an opportunity for hapū to connect with what had been considered a lost taonga.

    “Knowing kiwi pukupuku have survived this whole time in our takiwā is incredible. We are extremely excited and looking forward to working with DOC to secure the future of kiwi pukupuku.”

    Kiwi Recovery Group leader Emily King says the discovery of kiwi pukupuku on the mainland after all this time is almost miraculous.

    “The last known sighting of a kiwi pukupuku on the mainland was in 1978. Despite years of targeted searching, we hadn’t found them – until now.

    “We’re grateful to the hunter for reporting this and capturing evidence. It was like finding a needle in a haystack, but he pointed us to the right patch to start searching.

    “Kiwi pukupuku are one of those unique species which make Aotearoa New Zealand so special. I’m not sure how to express how thrilling this rediscovery is for the conservation world!”

    Since the initial find, Iain and his dog have returned to the area and successfully captured a male.

    “We’ll wait for genetic analysis to confirm, but the measurements look right for a kiwi pukupuku,” Iain says.

    “We are gathering information so we can work with Kāti Māhaki ki Makaawhio to explore the future protection and management of these birds.”

    Background information

    Kiwi pukupuku were thought to be extinct from the wild on mainland New Zealand. It was believed all remaining kiwi pukupuku were in predator free fenced sanctuaries and offshore islands, all of which were descendants of an insurance population of just 5 birds translocated to Kapiti Island from South Westland in 1912.

    Contact

    For media enquiries contact:

    Email: media@doc.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Shock kiwi rediscovery delights conservation world

    Source: NZ Department of Conservation

    Date:  16 July 2025

    A spotty kiwi was first sighted in March by a DOC-contracted tahr hunter in the remote Adams Wilderness Area, West Coast. DOC Biodiversity Ranger Iain Graham and his conservation dog Brew were flown in to locate the bird.

    “I heard kiwi calling the first night – two of them duetting – and immediately knew they didn’t sound like other kiwi. It was exciting, but it took a few days to narrow down the area,” Iain says.

    Iain and Brew are part of DOC’s Air New Zealand supported Conservation Dogs programme. This programme mentors, certifies and supports dog-handler teams to detect New Zealand’s protected species or unwanted pests. 

    Iain says the trip was a bit of a rollercoaster.

    “We were in rough terrain, in typical West Coast weather, and I was running out of dry clothes. Brew would find a burrow, but I couldn’t get to the bird. We were so frustratingly close.

    “I was stoked when we finally caught up with the female on our final night, the absolute last chance before getting flown out.”

    Tiny feathers were collected from the small spotted kiwi to confirm what Iain suspected – the bird was a kiwi pukupuku.

    The smallest of the kiwi species, kiwi pukupuku are extremely vulnerable to introduced predators. Until now it was believed they only survived in offshore islands and fenced predator-free sites. An estimated 2000 of the threatened birds remain, though the population is increasing thanks to the conservation efforts of community groups, agencies, and tangata whenua.

    Kara Edwards of Kāti Māhaki ki Makaawhio says the find is an opportunity for hapū to connect with what had been considered a lost taonga.

    “Knowing kiwi pukupuku have survived this whole time in our takiwā is incredible. We are extremely excited and looking forward to working with DOC to secure the future of kiwi pukupuku.”

    Kiwi Recovery Group leader Emily King says the discovery of kiwi pukupuku on the mainland after all this time is almost miraculous.

    “The last known sighting of a kiwi pukupuku on the mainland was in 1978. Despite years of targeted searching, we hadn’t found them – until now.

    “We’re grateful to the hunter for reporting this and capturing evidence. It was like finding a needle in a haystack, but he pointed us to the right patch to start searching.

    “Kiwi pukupuku are one of those unique species which make Aotearoa New Zealand so special. I’m not sure how to express how thrilling this rediscovery is for the conservation world!”

    Since the initial find, Iain and his dog have returned to the area and successfully captured a male.

    “We’ll wait for genetic analysis to confirm, but the measurements look right for a kiwi pukupuku,” Iain says.

    “We are gathering information so we can work with Kāti Māhaki ki Makaawhio to explore the future protection and management of these birds.”

    Background information

    Kiwi pukupuku were thought to be extinct from the wild on mainland New Zealand. It was believed all remaining kiwi pukupuku were in predator free fenced sanctuaries and offshore islands, all of which were descendants of an insurance population of just 5 birds translocated to Kapiti Island from South Westland in 1912.

    Contact

    For media enquiries contact:

    Email: media@doc.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: In Belarus, real monetary incomes of the population increased by 10.5 percent in the five months since the beginning of 2025 — Belstat

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    MINSK, July 15 (Xinhua) — Real disposable cash income of the population of Belarus for the period from January to May 2025 amounted to 110.5 percent compared to the same period last year. The relevant information was published by the Belarusian National Statistical Committee (Belstat) on Tuesday.

    In the total volume of monetary income of Belarusians, wages accounted for 66%, transfers to the population (including pensions, benefits, scholarships) – 22.2%, income from entrepreneurial and other activities – 7.3%, income from property and other income – 4.5%.

    Real disposable incomes are presented net of taxes, fees and contributions and adjusted for the consumer price index for goods and services. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ezell’s Cormorant Relief Act Clears House Natural Resources Committee

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mike Ezell (Mississippi 4th District)

    Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) announced today that his bill to protect Mississippi’s aquaculture and fishing industries from overpopulation of double-crested cormorants has successfully passed out of the House Natural Resources Committee with bipartisan support.

    The Cormorant Relief Act of 2025 streamlines the management of cormorant populations and restores much-needed flexibility to state and tribal wildlife agencies. These large, fish-eating birds have posed an increasing threat to fish farms and native species across the Gulf Coast, especially in Mississippi’s Fourth District.

    The Senate companion legislation is led by Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR). 

    “This is a big win for our catfish farmers, sportsmen, and conservationists,” Ezell said. “The overpopulation of cormorants has had a serious impact on our aquaculture industry, and this bill gives local experts the tools they need to protect our fisheries and manage bird populations responsibly. It’s about common sense — putting decision-making back in the hands of the people who are closest to the issue and understand it best.”

    “Congressman Ezell’s Cormorant Relief Act puts American farmers back in the driver’s seat and gives them the tools they need to manage their aquaculture facilities,” House Natural Resources Chairman Westerman said. “It is commonsense policy that will ensure responsible management of cormorant populations. I’d like to thank him for his work on this legislation and look forward to working with him as the bill continues to advance.”

    “Reinstating the federal double-crested cormorant depredation order is critical for Mississippi’s catfish farmers, who lose millions annually to these predatory birds. This measure will empower producers to protect their livelihoods, ensuring a thriving aquaculture industry that supports our state’s economy.” Mike McCormick, President, Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation, said.

    “The population and range of cormorants have steadily grown in recent decades, leading to increased challenges for state and tribal fish hatcheries, the private aquaculture industry, and fisheries managers,” Chris Horton, Senior Director of Fisheries Policy for the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation said. “We applaud Representative Ezell, along with Reps Thompson, Guest and Kelly, for their leadership in addressing the growing cormorant depredation problem without any deleterious effects on cormorant populations.”

    For years, Mississippi producers have voiced concerns about the federal red tape involved in controlling cormorants, whose feeding habits can decimate fish stocks. The Cormorant Relief Act would empower state wildlife agencies to take action without waiting for burdensome federal approvals, while ensuring oversight remains in place to protect migratory bird populations. 

    The bill now heads to the House floor for consideration.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese Foreign Minister Meets with Kazakh Deputy Prime Minister

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    TIANJIN, July 16 (Xinhua) — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Kazakh Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu in north China’s Tianjin Municipality on Tuesday.

    Wang Yi, also a member of the Politburo of the CPC Central Committee, said that under the leadership of the two heads of state, Chinese-Kazakh relations are experiencing the best period in their history.

    The head of the Chinese Foreign Ministry emphasized that China has always given Kazakhstan an important place in its diplomacy with neighboring countries and hopes to firmly support each other, strengthen political mutual trust and create more new bright points of cooperation together with the Kazakh side.

    Noting that Kazakhstan is a founding member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), Wang Yi indicated that China is ready to work with Kazakhstan and other SCO member countries to successfully hold the organization’s summit in Tianjin.

    M. Nurtleu, for his part, emphasized that Kazakhstan fully supports all cooperation initiatives put forward by China and is ready to make a positive contribution to the holding of the Tianjin SCO summit.

    According to him, Kazakhstan is ready to work with China to implement the consensus reached by the heads of the two states, prepare for high-level exchanges, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation in such areas as economics, trade, investment, energy, railways and the construction of industrial parks, strengthen cultural and humanitarian exchanges and promote the continuous progress of bilateral relations. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: De La Cruz Denounces Attack on Border Patrol Facility in McAllen

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Monica De La Cruz (TX-15)

    Today, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) introduced a House resolution denouncing the July 7th attack on the Border Patrol annex facility in McAllen. 

    “My heart is with Border Patrol agents and police officers following the attack on the McAllen Border Patrol annex facility. This resolution stands as a reminder that violence against law enforcement and first responders will never be tolerated. I am proud to lead this effort in honor of the brave men and women who put themselves in harms way and save lives.” – Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz

    The resolution has 41 original co-sponsors, including: Reps. Randy Weber (TX-14), Mike Flood (NE-01), Tony Gonzales (TX-23), Pete Sessions (TX-17), Clay Higgins (LA-03), Michael Guest (MS-03), Juan Ciscomani (AZ-06), Jeff Van Drew (NJ-02), Elise Stefanik (NY-21), Erin Houchin (IN-09), Troy Nehls (TX-22), Pat Fallon (TX-04), Anna Paulina Luna (FL-13), Buddy Carter (GA-01), Mike Simpson (ID-02), Beth Van Duyne (TX-24), Ronny Jackson (TX-13), Stephanie Bice (OK-05), Diana Harshbarger (TN-01), Lance Gooden (TX-05), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01), Dan Meuser (PA-09), Keith Self (TX-03), Brandon Gill (TX-26), Celeste Maloy (UT-02), Marjorie Taylor Greene (GA-14), John McGuire (VA-05), Abraham Hamadeh (AZ-08), Brian Babin (TX-36), Dan Crenshaw (TX-02), Claudia Tenney (NY-24), Nathaniel Moran (TX-01), Gabe Evans (CO-08), Greg Steube (FL-17), Michael Rulli (OH-06), John Carter (TX-31), Wesley Hunt (TX-38), Don Bacon (NE-02), Aaron Bean (FL-04), Jen Kiggans (VA-02), and Brad Finstad (MN-01).

    Background: 
    On July 7th, an active shooter opened fire on the McAllen Border Patrol annex facility in McAllen, Texas. The attack resulted in three wounded, including McAllen Police Department Officer Ismael Garcia, who sustained a knee injury during the attack. Last week, De La Cruz visited Officer Garcia in recovery.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: De La Cruz Denounces Attack on Border Patrol Facility in McAllen

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Monica De La Cruz (TX-15)

    Today, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) introduced a House resolution denouncing the July 7th attack on the Border Patrol annex facility in McAllen. 

    “My heart is with Border Patrol agents and police officers following the attack on the McAllen Border Patrol annex facility. This resolution stands as a reminder that violence against law enforcement and first responders will never be tolerated. I am proud to lead this effort in honor of the brave men and women who put themselves in harms way and save lives.” – Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz

    The resolution has 41 original co-sponsors, including: Reps. Randy Weber (TX-14), Mike Flood (NE-01), Tony Gonzales (TX-23), Pete Sessions (TX-17), Clay Higgins (LA-03), Michael Guest (MS-03), Juan Ciscomani (AZ-06), Jeff Van Drew (NJ-02), Elise Stefanik (NY-21), Erin Houchin (IN-09), Troy Nehls (TX-22), Pat Fallon (TX-04), Anna Paulina Luna (FL-13), Buddy Carter (GA-01), Mike Simpson (ID-02), Beth Van Duyne (TX-24), Ronny Jackson (TX-13), Stephanie Bice (OK-05), Diana Harshbarger (TN-01), Lance Gooden (TX-05), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01), Dan Meuser (PA-09), Keith Self (TX-03), Brandon Gill (TX-26), Celeste Maloy (UT-02), Marjorie Taylor Greene (GA-14), John McGuire (VA-05), Abraham Hamadeh (AZ-08), Brian Babin (TX-36), Dan Crenshaw (TX-02), Claudia Tenney (NY-24), Nathaniel Moran (TX-01), Gabe Evans (CO-08), Greg Steube (FL-17), Michael Rulli (OH-06), John Carter (TX-31), Wesley Hunt (TX-38), Don Bacon (NE-02), Aaron Bean (FL-04), Jen Kiggans (VA-02), and Brad Finstad (MN-01).

    Background: 
    On July 7th, an active shooter opened fire on the McAllen Border Patrol annex facility in McAllen, Texas. The attack resulted in three wounded, including McAllen Police Department Officer Ismael Garcia, who sustained a knee injury during the attack. Last week, De La Cruz visited Officer Garcia in recovery.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Merkley, Colleagues Press Trump Administration on Weaponizing Immigration Hearings to Trap, Arrest, Deport Immigrants

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)

    July 15, 2025

    The Trump administration has been terminating immigration court cases and deporting individuals without due process.

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, both D-Ore., said today they have joined a group of 21 Senate Democrats in pressing the Trump administration on its recent initiatives to weaponize immigration court hearings by terminating those cases and deporting people without due process.

    In a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Acting Director Todd Lyons, the senators condemned these actions as an affront to constitutionally-mandated due process.

    “We are extremely concerned by reports of a recent initiative to arrest and detain noncitizens at their immigration court hearings, and in many cases, dismiss their immigration cases without advance notice and while hiding the government’s intent to arrest them,” the senators wrote, citing recent reporting of the Trump administration’s inhumane initiatives. “These actions prevent noncitizens from having their fair day in court and raise serious legal and due process concerns.” 

    The senators wrote that the Trump administration’s actions place noncitizens in an impossible position. 

    “If noncitizens who fear arrest do not attend their immigration court hearing, they may receive an in absentia removal order that will newly subject them to swift detention and removal,” they wrote. “If they do attend, they risk arrest, detention, and a swift deportation, possibly to South Sudan, Libya, or El Salvador — countries they may have no connection to. This manipulation of existing laws to enact this Administration’s mass deportation agenda is creating chaos in our immigration system while doing nothing to make our communities safer.”

    In addition to Wyden and Merkley, the letter was led by U.S. Senators Dick Durbin, D-Ill., Alex Padilla, D-Calif., and Mark Kelly, D-Ariz. It was signed by U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks, D-Md., Michael Bennet, D-Colo., Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., Chris Coons, D-Del., Catherine Cortez Masto, D-Nev., Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., Ruben Gallego, D-Ariz., Martin Heinrich, D-N.M., John Hickenlooper, D-Colo., Mazie Hirono, D-Hawai’i, Andy Kim, D-N.J., Ben Ray Luján, D-N.M., Edward J. Markey, D-Mass., Patty Murray, D-Wash., Jacky Rosen, D-Nev., Adam Schiff, D-Calif., Tina Smith, D-Minn., Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., and Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass.

    The text of the letter is here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) and Republic of Congo explore e-commerce solutions to strengthen agricultural value chains and combat hunger

    Source: APO


    .

    Achieving the African Union’s goal of ending hunger by 2025 and the global target of Zero Hunger by 2030 remains a significant challenge for the continent.

    In the Republic of Congo, despite continued government efforts to enhance domestic food production and distribution, only 4% of arable land is currently being cultivated. Food access remains constrained by inadequate infrastructure and stark imbalances between supply and demand, leaving an estimated 455,000 people in food and nutrition insecurity.

    To address these challenges, the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), through its Sub-Regional Offices for Eastern and Central Africa, conducted a fact-finding mission in collaboration with the Ministry of Trade. Held from 30 June to 4 July 2025, in Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire, the mission aimed to explore how e-commerce and digital tools can accelerate food trade and improve access—particularly for vulnerable populations—while strengthening national and regional agricultural value chains.

    This initiative is part of ECA’s flagship program, “Innovative Digital Trade under the AfCFTA for Promoting Food Security and Agricultural Value Chains in Africa.”

    Strengthening E-Commerce for Agricultural Development

    During the mission, ECA engaged with nearly 200 stakeholders, including three ministers: the Minister of Trade, Supplies and Consumer Affairs; the Minister of Agriculture; and the Minister of Small and Medium Enterprises, Handicrafts, and the Informal Sector. Senior officials from the Ministries of Agriculture, Telecommunications, and the Digital Economy also participated, alongside representatives from MTN, Airtel, the Regulatory Agency for Electronic Communications, the Congolese Agency for Quality and Standardization, commercial banks, agribusinesses, and development partners such as the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office, FAO, and WFP.

    The mission focused on assessing how digital trade can support national food development strategies and how food e-commerce can be scaled to enhance food security and agricultural value chains.

    “If current trends continue, Africa risks missing Sustainable Development Goal 2 – Zero Hunger – by 2030,” said Simone Assah Kuete, Economic Affairs Officer at ECA’s Office for Eastern Africa.

    “Food products are highly perishable and require specialized infrastructure for handling, storage, and distribution. Without reliable cold chains and efficient logistics, maintaining food quality from farm to table becomes virtually impossible.”

    She highlighted that In 2023, an alarming 20% of the population in Sub-Saharan Africa faced severe malnourishment—compared to 8.1% in Asia, 7.3% in Oceania, and 6.2% in Latin America. Moreover from 2019 to 2023, the number of food-insecure people in Sub-Saharan Africa rose from 258 million to 358 million—a 39% increase—while other regions saw declines. “In this context, leveraging digital tools to reduce market information asymmetries and strengthen food systems is no longer optional—it is an urgent imperative,” she added.

    National Commitment to E-Commerce Reform

    Lenda Sitou Milandou, Special Adviser to the Ministry of Trade, welcomed the mission and praised the strong collaboration that made it a success.

    “Food security remains a top priority in our national development agenda,” she affirmed. “To achieve it, we must develop robust legal, regulatory, and institutional frameworks to enable the growth of e-trade in food products.”

    Key Outcomes and Next Steps

    The mission identified high-demand national food products and assessed the current use of e-commerce platforms in the Republic of Congo. It also explored opportunities to enhance digital payment systems—currently limited—through partnerships with commercial banks and mobile network operators.

    The dialogue revealed critical challenges in food production and trade, policy gaps, infrastructure and capacity needs, and the potential role of digital intermediaries in improving food systems.

    This initiative marks a pivotal step toward aligning e-commerce strategies with agricultural transformation in the Republic of Congo. It reflects ECA’s ongoing commitment to supporting member states in leveraging innovation to foster sustainable, inclusive growth.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto, Rosen Demand Trump Administration Release Nearly $7 Billion for K-12 Education

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) joined Senator Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) in a letter to U.S. Department of Education Secretary Linda McMahon demanding answers over the Trump administration’s decision to withhold nearly $7 billion in federal funding for K-12 public schools, including more than $60 million for schools in Nevada. The Senators urged the Department to restore the funding and provide clarity for schools and educators.

    “These funds, which represent longstanding investments in K–12 education, support a wide range of priorities such as teacher recruitment, after-school programs, English learner instruction, school-based mental health services, and academic enrichment,” the Senators wrote. “Withholding funds for these important programs will disrupt essential services and undermine the support structures that students, families, and educators rely on every day.”

    On July 1, schools across the country reported they were unable to access their federal funding after the Department of Education abruptly froze nearly $7 billion in grants, even though the funds were appropriated by Congress and already factored into school budgets. The lack of clarity has left schools scrambling just weeks before the new school year begins, forcing districts to delay staffing decisions, scale back programs, and reconsider essential student support services. 

    In Nevada, affected programs include after-school programs, English-learner services, professional development, and migrant education. At least fourteen percent of Nevada students are English-Language Learners.

    “Federal education programs play a crucial role in advancing equity and expanding opportunity, especially for students from low-income and historically underserved communities,” the Senators continued. “With learning gaps widening and student needs growing more complex, limiting access to these resources risks deepening disparities and undermining progress across the education system.”

    “Congress has a constitutional responsibility to appropriate federal education funds, and it is essential that those funds are administered transparently and in accordance with federal law. We urge the Department to work with school districts to provide clarity, minimize disruption, and ensure that critical educational services remain accessible to the students who need them most,” the Senators concluded. 

    Read the full letter here.

    Senators Cortez Masto and Rosen have pushed multiple Departments under the Trump Administration for detailed, public information regarding the impacts of President Trump’s federal funding freeze, hiring freeze, and terminations on Nevada – including to the Department of the Interior, the U.S. Forest Service, the National Nuclear Security Administration, the Department of Veterans Affairs, Department of Agriculture, General Services Administration, Department of Health and Human Services, and Consumer Finance Protection Bureau. The Senators have also pushed back against cuts that hurt students and families in need across Nevada, including to Sierra Nevada Job Corps, mental health grant funding, and food and nutrition programs.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SIGNED: Cortez Masto’s Legislation to Create Jobs at Apex Industrial Park in North Las Vegas

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto
    Washington, D.C. – Today, President Trump signed Senator Catherine Cortez Masto’s (D-Nev.) bill to create thousands of new jobs at North Las Vegas’ Apex Industrial Park into law. The Apex Area Technical Corrections Act would allow new and existing businesses at Apex to expand without going through a burdensome permitting process for basic utilities and infrastructure.
    “I am proud to have worked with my colleagues in both the House and the Senate to deliver real solutions for Southern Nevadans,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “Now that President Trump has signed my bill into law, businesses in North Las Vegas will have more opportunities to innovate, expand, and create good-paying jobs.”
    “The City of North Las Vegas strongly supports the Apex Area Technical Corrections Act,” said North Las Vegas Mayor Pamela Goynes-Brown. “This act fast tracks infrastructure development that will lead to quality jobs. In the past, securing BLM rights-of-way for roads, water, power, and other utilities took years for each individual use which delayed progress and investment. This legislation allows for a unified, streamlined process that will save time, reduce redundancy, and unlock Apex’s full potential without compromising environmental review or agency oversight. We thank Senator Cortez Masto and Congressman Horsford for championing this commonsense solution and look forward to continued collaboration to grow our economy and deliver results for North Las Vegas and the region.”
    “The Apex Owners and stakeholders have worked tirelessly with Senator Cortez Masto and the City of North Las Vegas to modernize the Apex Act and streamline the BLM permitting process,” said Lisa Cole, Esq., In-house Counsel and Vice President of Land Development Associates, LLC. “Previously, each road and utility right-of-way could take 1 to 3 years to secure per project even when in the same location. The Apex Area Technical Corrections Act is a major breakthrough that allows one consolidated permit, saving years while preserving environmental and federal oversight. We’re deeply grateful to Senator Cortez Masto and Congressman Horsford for their leadership in making this long-overdue fix a reality.”
    The Apex Area Technical Corrections Act was introduced in the House of Representatives by Congressman Steven Horsford (D-Nev.04), where it was passed in May. In June, Senator Cortez Masto successfully passed the bill in the Senate by unanimous consent. Senator Cortez Masto first introduced this legislation in 2023.
    Senator Cortez Masto has worked across the board to strengthen and diversify Nevada’s economy and create new jobs by passing legislation to upgrade American infrastructure, support Nevada’s manufacturing industry, and invest in Nevada’s booming clean-energy economy. She has consistently supported programs and grants that provide job training to young Nevadans so they can access good-paying jobs without a four-year degree.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SIGNED: Cortez Masto’s Legislation to Create Jobs at Apex Industrial Park in North Las Vegas

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto
    Washington, D.C. – Today, President Trump signed Senator Catherine Cortez Masto’s (D-Nev.) bill to create thousands of new jobs at North Las Vegas’ Apex Industrial Park into law. The Apex Area Technical Corrections Act would allow new and existing businesses at Apex to expand without going through a burdensome permitting process for basic utilities and infrastructure.
    “I am proud to have worked with my colleagues in both the House and the Senate to deliver real solutions for Southern Nevadans,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “Now that President Trump has signed my bill into law, businesses in North Las Vegas will have more opportunities to innovate, expand, and create good-paying jobs.”
    “The City of North Las Vegas strongly supports the Apex Area Technical Corrections Act,” said North Las Vegas Mayor Pamela Goynes-Brown. “This act fast tracks infrastructure development that will lead to quality jobs. In the past, securing BLM rights-of-way for roads, water, power, and other utilities took years for each individual use which delayed progress and investment. This legislation allows for a unified, streamlined process that will save time, reduce redundancy, and unlock Apex’s full potential without compromising environmental review or agency oversight. We thank Senator Cortez Masto and Congressman Horsford for championing this commonsense solution and look forward to continued collaboration to grow our economy and deliver results for North Las Vegas and the region.”
    “The Apex Owners and stakeholders have worked tirelessly with Senator Cortez Masto and the City of North Las Vegas to modernize the Apex Act and streamline the BLM permitting process,” said Lisa Cole, Esq., In-house Counsel and Vice President of Land Development Associates, LLC. “Previously, each road and utility right-of-way could take 1 to 3 years to secure per project even when in the same location. The Apex Area Technical Corrections Act is a major breakthrough that allows one consolidated permit, saving years while preserving environmental and federal oversight. We’re deeply grateful to Senator Cortez Masto and Congressman Horsford for their leadership in making this long-overdue fix a reality.”
    The Apex Area Technical Corrections Act was introduced in the House of Representatives by Congressman Steven Horsford (D-Nev.04), where it was passed in May. In June, Senator Cortez Masto successfully passed the bill in the Senate by unanimous consent. Senator Cortez Masto first introduced this legislation in 2023.
    Senator Cortez Masto has worked across the board to strengthen and diversify Nevada’s economy and create new jobs by passing legislation to upgrade American infrastructure, support Nevada’s manufacturing industry, and invest in Nevada’s booming clean-energy economy. She has consistently supported programs and grants that provide job training to young Nevadans so they can access good-paying jobs without a four-year degree.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SIGNED: Cortez Masto’s Legislation to Create Jobs at Apex Industrial Park in North Las Vegas

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto
    Washington, D.C. – Today, President Trump signed Senator Catherine Cortez Masto’s (D-Nev.) bill to create thousands of new jobs at North Las Vegas’ Apex Industrial Park into law. The Apex Area Technical Corrections Act would allow new and existing businesses at Apex to expand without going through a burdensome permitting process for basic utilities and infrastructure.
    “I am proud to have worked with my colleagues in both the House and the Senate to deliver real solutions for Southern Nevadans,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “Now that President Trump has signed my bill into law, businesses in North Las Vegas will have more opportunities to innovate, expand, and create good-paying jobs.”
    “The City of North Las Vegas strongly supports the Apex Area Technical Corrections Act,” said North Las Vegas Mayor Pamela Goynes-Brown. “This act fast tracks infrastructure development that will lead to quality jobs. In the past, securing BLM rights-of-way for roads, water, power, and other utilities took years for each individual use which delayed progress and investment. This legislation allows for a unified, streamlined process that will save time, reduce redundancy, and unlock Apex’s full potential without compromising environmental review or agency oversight. We thank Senator Cortez Masto and Congressman Horsford for championing this commonsense solution and look forward to continued collaboration to grow our economy and deliver results for North Las Vegas and the region.”
    “The Apex Owners and stakeholders have worked tirelessly with Senator Cortez Masto and the City of North Las Vegas to modernize the Apex Act and streamline the BLM permitting process,” said Lisa Cole, Esq., In-house Counsel and Vice President of Land Development Associates, LLC. “Previously, each road and utility right-of-way could take 1 to 3 years to secure per project even when in the same location. The Apex Area Technical Corrections Act is a major breakthrough that allows one consolidated permit, saving years while preserving environmental and federal oversight. We’re deeply grateful to Senator Cortez Masto and Congressman Horsford for their leadership in making this long-overdue fix a reality.”
    The Apex Area Technical Corrections Act was introduced in the House of Representatives by Congressman Steven Horsford (D-Nev.04), where it was passed in May. In June, Senator Cortez Masto successfully passed the bill in the Senate by unanimous consent. Senator Cortez Masto first introduced this legislation in 2023.
    Senator Cortez Masto has worked across the board to strengthen and diversify Nevada’s economy and create new jobs by passing legislation to upgrade American infrastructure, support Nevada’s manufacturing industry, and invest in Nevada’s booming clean-energy economy. She has consistently supported programs and grants that provide job training to young Nevadans so they can access good-paying jobs without a four-year degree.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Massachusetts Woman Charged With Leaking Grand Jury Information

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – A Dracut, Mass. woman has been charged with allegedly disclosing information presented to a federal grand jury to unauthorized individuals.

    Jessica M. Leslie, 34, was charged on Friday, July 11, 2025 with one count of criminal contempt. The defendant has agreed to plead guilty and will make an initial appearance in federal court in Boston at a later date. A plea hearing has not yet been scheduled by the Court.

    According to the charging document, on various dates between Aug. 11, 2022 and March 4, 2024, the defendant disclosed sealed information to unauthorized individuals, including the names of various witnesses appearing before a federal grand jury, the substance of witness testimony and other evidence presented to the grand jury, in violation of the Federal Rules and court order.

    The charge of criminal contempt provides for a sentence of any term of years in prison, five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Anne Paruti, Chief of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.

    The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Coming up next week at the London Assembly w/c July 7

    Source: Mayor of London

    PUBLICATION

    Thursday 10 July

    Affordable Housing Monitor

    Housing Committee

    The annual Affordable Housing Monitor tracks the Mayor’s progress against his affordable home delivery targets.

    PUBLIC MEETINGS

    Monday 7 July

    Internal Audit Reports

    Audit Panel – The Chamber, City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, 2pm

    The Audit Panel will examine internal and external audit reports, as well as the Greater London Authority (GLA) Corporate Risk Register, the Draft Annual Governance Statement and expenses and taxable benefits. The guests are:

    • Mark Woodley – Group Audit Lead, MOPAC
    • Dianne Tranmer – Executive Director Corporate Resources & Business Improvement, GLA
    • Fay Hammond – Chief Finance Officer, GLA
    • Vicky Ridley-Pearson – Director of Digital, Digital Experience Unit, GLA
    • Stephen Reid – Partner & Head of UK Government and Public Sector Audit, EY
    • Jacob McHugh – Senior Manager, EY
    • David Esling – Head of Audit Assurance – Risk Management, MOPAC

    MEDIA CONTACT: Alison Bell on 07887 832 918 / [email protected]

    Tuesday 8 July

    Fare evasion

    Transport Committee – The Chamber, City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, 10am

    The Transport Committee will ask what Transport for London (TfL) is doing to tackle fare evasion and learn more about the impact it has on staff.  The guests are:

    Panel 1 -10am – 11.30am

    • Jared Wood – London Transport Regional Organiser, RMT
    • Michael Roberts – Chief Executive, London TravelWatch

    Panel 2 – 11.30am – 1pm

    • Siwan Hayward OBE – Director of Security, Policing and Enforcement, TfL
    • Jonathan Gronow – Analysis Manager, TfL

    MEDIA CONTACT: Josh Hunt on 07763 252 310 / [email protected]

    Wednesday 9 July

    London’s place in the Government’s Devolution Reforms

    GLA Oversight Committee – The Chamber, City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, 10am

    This third meeting of the GLA Oversight Committee investigation on devolution will aim to identify priority areas for London in any new devolution settlement and assess the opportunities available to London through the English Devolution White Paper and the proposed devolution framework in the English Devolution Bill.  The guests are:

    • Councillor Claire Holland, Chair of London Councils
    • Professor Tony Travers, Professor in Practice and Associate Dean of the LSE School of Public Policy
    • Richard Watts, Deputy Chief of Staff to the Mayor of London

    MEDIA CONTACT: Alison Bell on 07887 832 918 / [email protected]

    Thursday 10 July

    Affordable Housing Monitor

    Housing Committee – The Chamber, City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, 10am

    The Housing Committee will meet with representatives from London boroughs, housing associations, and a supported housing provider to discuss the Mayor’s Affordable Homes Programme.

    These discussions will follow the release of the Affordable Housing Monitor and aim to gather feedback on the existing programme and insights into what investment partners hope to see in the next one. The guests are:

    Panel 1 – 10.00am-11.15am

    • Tom Oliver – Development Programme Director, Peabody
    • Tracey Cullen – Chief Executive & Board Member, Croydon Churches Housing Association
    • Barbara Richardson – Managing Director at Square Roots
    • Heather Thomas – Chief Executive at Sapphire Independent Housing

    Panel 2 – 11.25am-12.40pm

    • Alice Lester MBE – Director of Regeneration, Growth and Employment at the London Borough of Brent
    • Osama Shoush – Housing Strategic Lead, Southwark Council

    MEDIA CONTACT: Josh Hunt on 07763 252 310 / [email protected]
     

    Friday 11 July

    Mayor’s Question Time

    All Assembly meeting – The Chamber, City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, 10am

    The Mayor of London will face questions from London Assembly Members, in Mayor’s Question Time (MQT). Topics will include:

    • Manifesto Pledges
    • Counterterrorism Approach
    • Contaminated land in London
    • Disability Equality Champion

    The guest is:

    • Sir Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London

    MEDIA CONTACT: Alison Bell on 07887 832 918 / [email protected]

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Fossil Fuel Subsidy Reform initiative steps up experience-sharing, reviews subsidy impacts

    Source: WTO

    Headline: Fossil Fuel Subsidy Reform initiative steps up experience-sharing, reviews subsidy impacts

    Ambassador Clare Kelly of New Zealand, coordinator of the FFSR initiative, summarized the progress made on the three key pillars of the initiative’s work in 2025. Noting the strong interest in experience-sharing under the third pillar — “identifying and addressing harmful fossil fuel subsidies” — she encouraged participating members to continue exchanging ideas and to draw lessons from others’ reforms and complementary strategies to address social and developmental challenges.
    As part of the dedicated discussion on fossil fuel reforms, the Philippines shared its experiences on energy market and fossil fuel subsidy reform, including in support of the transition to sustainable energy solutions, while aligning with development priorities. The World Bank presented two new databases that enable users to track changes in retail fuel prices and related subsidy policies across countries in a timely manner. These tools are designed to support global efforts to address challenges associated with fuel pricing and subsidies, particularly in the context of volatile market conditions.
    In further discussions under the third pillar, co-sponsors examined the trade and environmental impacts of fossil fuel subsidies passed through to emissions-intensive industries. The International Energy Agency (IEA) presented its latest energy investment report, which indicated that fossil fuel subsidy support to industry had remained constant, despite a significant global shift towards increased clean energy investment.
    The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) shared key findings from a recent study on the implications of government support for aluminium smelting and steelmaking. The study concludes that reforming such support offers a cost-effective way to reduce emissions while freeing public resources for more sustainable uses. The WTO Secretariat also presented a 2024 working paper on the trade effects of carbon pricing policies, which contains analysis of the potential impacts of different carbon pricing policies, including removal of fossil fuel subsidies, on comparative advantage in carbon-intensive industries.
    Co-sponsors thanked members and stakeholders for the valuable insights shared, which underscored the importance of strengthening fossil fuel subsidy reform through collective efforts. They emphasized the persistent scale and impact of fossil fuel subsidies, even amid increasing investment in clean energy. The empirical evidence presented confirmed that such subsidies distort comparative advantages and global trade, reinforcing the relevance of the FFSR initiative’s focus on subsidy reform. Co-sponsors also proposed ways to improve the understanding and classification of different types of fossil fuel subsidies.
    Under the first pillar — “Enhanced transparency” — several co-sponsors, including Colombia, Norway and Switzerland, provided updates on their respective efforts to compile information on fossil fuel subsidies and related reforms as part of their recent or upcoming Trade Policy Reviews. The WTO Secretariat presented data from members’ questions and answers related to fossil fuel subsidies and their reform, based on 18 Trade Policy Reviews conducted in 2024 and 2025. The findings reflect increased transparency on the topic, in part as a result of the non-exhaustive list of sample questions to be asked at TPRs adopted by the FFSR initiative co-sponsors at MC13.
    Under the second pillar — “Crisis support measures” — the coordinator highlighted ongoing efforts to compile information on temporary fossil fuel support measures introduced during the 2022–2023 energy crisis, with the aim of developing a practical set of guidelines to help members design any future such measures effectively. Co-sponsors reaffirmed the usefulness of the work on planned guidelines to help ensure that such measures remain targeted, transparent and temporary.
    In conclusion, Ambassador Kelly noted that the next FFSR meeting, scheduled for 2 October 2025, will continue to promote experience-sharing and maintain a focus on the three core pillars of the work programme.
    The FFSR initiative seeks to achieve the rationalization, phasing-out or elimination of harmful fossil fuel subsidies through the use of existing mechanisms or the development of new pathways to reform. It encourages WTO members to share information and experiences to advance discussions at the WTO. More information about the FFSR initiative is available here.

    Share

    MIL OSI Economics –