NewzIntel.com

Category: CTF

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed Statement on Death of Former Governor Edward D. DiPrete

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jack Reed today released the following statement on the passing of former Rhode Island Governor Ed DiPrete, 91:

    “This is a loss of a state leader and a personal loss for myself because our families have been connected for two generations.  My dad had the chance to work closely with him in the Cranston school system when he was a custodian and Ed was on the school committee.  He was very kind and I always had a cooperative working relationship with him when I served in the state Senate. 

    “He was a devoted family man.  In his later years, Ed would beam discussing his twenty grandchildren, many great grandchildren, and beloved hometown of Cranston.  At this difficult moment, I hope his family and friends find peace and comfort in their loving memories of Ed’s unique personality and life.  He certainly made his mark.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: July 10th, 2025 N.M. Delegation Welcomes Over $4.3 Million to Improve New Mexico’s Airports

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) are welcoming $4,384,758 from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for upgrades at the Albuquerque International Sunport, Artesia Municipal Airport, and Socorro Municipal Airport.

    These grants are funded through the FAA’s Airport Improvement Program, which provides grants for the planning and development of public-use airports.

    “When we invest in New Mexico’s airports, we invest in the people who rely on these facilities to do business in our state, create jobs, and contribute to our economy,” said Heinrich, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. “I am proud to welcome over $4.3 million to make improvements at the Albuquerque International Sunport and the Artesia and Socorro Municipal Airports. I will keep fighting to bring investments home to modernize our airports, improve travelers’ experiences, and drive our state’s economic growth for the future.”

    “Airports across New Mexico are critical hubs for transportation and local economies,” said Luján. “I’m proud to welcome over $4 million in federal funding for airports in Albuquerque, Artesia, and Socorro. These investments will improve safety, support local jobs, and help our airports better serve New Mexicans and visitors alike.”

    “Investing in our infrastructure keeps our communities connected and creates a foundation for prosperity in rural New Mexico. This $4,384,758 in federal funding will bring much-needed investments to not only New Mexico’s largest airport, but also our rural airports. Maintaining runways and infrastructure is the quiet work that is essential to keep our planes and passengers safe.” said Leger Fernández. “Connecting New Mexico diversifies our economy and creates local jobs across the state.”

    “Our airports are vital lifelines for trade, tourism, and connecting our communities to family and friends outside of New Mexico,” said Stansbury. “This $4.3 million for infrastructure updates for three airports across the state, including NM-01’s very own Sunport, will ensure they stay safe and efficient hubs for New Mexicans and visitors.”

    “From the Sunport to Socorro and Artesia, these airport upgrades will improve accessibility and connectivity for New Mexicans,” said Vasquez. “Safer roads, modernized runways, and new equipment mean better service for travelers and stronger support for local industries like agriculture, energy, and tourism. We’re making sure New Mexico isn’t left behind when it comes to infrastructure that keeps people and goods moving.”

    The breakdown of the FAA funding for New Mexico is below:

    FAA Funding for New Mexico

    Airport

    Project Description

    Grant Amount

    Albuquerque International Sunport

    This project rehabilitates 10,500 feet of existing terminal access road to extend its useful life.

    $3,656,508

    Artesia Municipal Airport

    This grant funds phase 1, which consists of design. This project rehabilitates 6,800 feet of existing paved Runway 4/22 to maintain the structural integrity and minimize foreign object debris to extend its useful life.

    $128,250

    Socorro Municipal Airport

    This grant funds a portion of the final phase, which consists of construction. This project constructs a new 2,700 square foot snow removal equipment building to bring the airport into conformity with current standards.

    $600,000

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: S. 759, Modernizing Access to Our Public Oceans Act

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    S. 759 would require the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to publish geographic data, within 31 months of enactment, identifying areas within the U.S. exclusive economic zone (EEZ) that are subject to regulatory restrictions on fishing, boating, diving, and other recreational activities. The data must be accessible on the agency’s website and updated at least twice a year. The EEZ is an area that is adjacent to the country’s coastal territorial sea and extends about 230 miles beyond the coastline.

    Under current law, NOAA maintains and publishes data identifying area-based regulations related to fishing and marine sanctuaries and develops navigational and underwater mapping information for the EEZ. The agency also maintains a federal spatial database of managed fisheries in collaboration with the Regional Fishery Management Council Coordination Committee and the Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission. In 2024, NOAA allocated $101 million for those activities.

    CBO expects that NOAA would build on its existing capabilities to develop geospatial data standards and classification strategies for identifying restricted areas, working with other federal agencies, tribes, state and local governments and interstate commissions.

    Based on information from the agency, CBO expects that NOAA would need seven full-time equivalent staff in 2026 and five each year thereafter, at an average cost of $180,000 per employee. Those employees would be responsible for developing standards and compiling data into a digital, accessible, and interoperable geographic format. After accounting for anticipated inflation, CBO estimates that implementing the bill would cost $5 million over the 2025-2030 period. Any related spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.

    The CBO staff contact for this estimate is Aurora Swanson. The estimate was reviewed by H. Samuel Papenfuss, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 1210, Protecting Taxpayers’ Wallets Act

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    H.R. 1210 would require federal labor unions to reimburse agencies for any federal resources or employee time used for union business. Under the bill, unions that fail to make those reimbursements would be prohibited from conducting most operations until payment, including accrued interest, is made. Employees who do not report time spent on union business could face disciplinary action. H.R. 1210 also would require that each agency’s inspector general regularly report on those reimbursements.

    In March 2025, the Administration revoked collective bargaining rights for employees at some agencies. Based on historic rates of union membership, CBO estimates that administrative change would affect about 70 percent of federal unions. Accordingly, CBO expects that union membership will fall below historical levels.

    After factoring in that action, CBO estimates that the government could collect about $600 million in fees over the 2025-2035 period from unaffected unions, assuming they continue normal operations. However, CBO expects that fees of that magnitude would strain union budgets, prompting them to reduce their use of federal resources and time. CBO also expects that unions and federal employees would comply with the reimbursement and reporting requirements under the bill. On that basis, CBO estimates that enacting H.R. 1210 would increase offsetting receipts, that is, reduce direct spending, by $43 million over the 2025-2035 period.

    Based on the cost of similar activities, CBO estimates that the administrative costs associated with collecting fees and reporting activities would total $10 million over the 2025-2030 period. Any related spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.

    Enacting H.R. 1210 could affect direct spending by some agencies that are allowed to use fees, receipts from the sale of goods, and other collections to cover operating costs. CBO estimates that any net changes in direct spending by those agencies would be negligible because most of them can adjust amounts collected to reflect changes in operating costs.

    The costs of the legislation, detailed in Table 1, fall within budget function 800 (general government).

    Table 1.

    Estimated Budgetary Effects of H.R. 1210
     

    By Fiscal Year, Millions of Dollars

    		    
     

    2025

    2026

    2027

    2028

    2029

    2030

    2031

    2032

    2033

    2034

    2035

    2025-2030

    2025-2035
     

    Decreases in Direct Spending

    		    

    Estimated Budget Authority

    0

    -2

    -3

    -4

    -4

    -5

    -5

    -5

    -5

    -5

    -5

    -18

    -43

    Estimated Outlays

    0

    -2

    -3

    -4

    -4

    -5

    -5

    -5

    -5

    -5

    -5

    -18

    -43
     

    Increases in Spending Subject to Appropriation

    		    

    Estimated Authorization

    *

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    5

    10

    Estimated Outlays

    *

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    5

    10

    The CBO staff contact for this estimate is Emma Uebelhor. The estimate was reviewed by H. Samuel Papenfuss, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: TRANSCRIPT: Governor Phil Scott Reflects on Anniversary of 2023 and 2024 Flooding Events

    Source: US State of Vermont

    Montpelier, Vt. – Governor Phil Scott yesterday held a press conference at the Lyndonville Redemption Center to reflect on the anniversary of the 2023 and 2024 severe flooding events which impacted over 150 cities, towns and villages.

    Governor Phil Scott: Good afternoon, thanks for being here. And thanks to Shane and Emily for hosting us.

    Two years ago, areas across Vermont were devastated by catastrophic flooding we hadn’t seen in nearly 100 years, and it wasn’t confined to a single day. There were multiple storm systems that continued to pound Vermont for almost two weeks.

    Then, one year later, to the day, more intense rain hit Vermont, devastating many of the same areas, as well as new regions, like the Kingdom.

    In the last two years, more than 150 cities, towns, and villages across Vermont felt the impacts of flooding, which caused over a billion dollars in damage.

    But instead of throwing up our hands, Vermonters rolled up their sleeves and got to work.

    Mucking out basements, delivering meals to neighbors in need, and volunteering to clean up homes, neighborhoods and businesses.

    Long term recovery groups were formed, some who are here today, and organizations like the Vermont Community Foundation stepped up to help manage donations as well as other volunteer groups, both in state and out of state to take on more than their share of work.

    As we look back on the floods of the last two summers, we’ve come a long way. And that’s especially true here in Lyndonville.

    I remember walking up Red Village Road soon after the flood and seeing the incredible damage. The field down below looked like a “log yard,” with debris stacked up like cord wood 25 feet in the air.

    I saw a somewhat intact, but destroyed, home completely off the foundation and pinned against a bridge.

    It had apparently been washed downstream hundreds of feet during the night with 2 women inside.

    I didn’t know it at the time, but I learned soon after that I knew one of the women who “rode it out” from my racing days decades ago. It was 98-year-old Pete Blackadar and her niece Paula.

    They both survived due to the help and heroics of a neighbor and Pete had her 99th birthday celebration in Danville a couple months later, which I attended. But unfortunately, she passed away in her sleep a couple weeks later. I guess July 10, 2024, wasn’t her time to go.

    Down by the house, I looked down at what I thought was the road and there was a chrome bumper sticking out. But it wasn’t just a bumper, it turned out to be an entire car completely buried in gravel and sediment.

    Walking up the road you couldn’t tell where the brook had been previously, it looked so tame and harmless that day. But there were pieces of shredded metal culverts and what remained of concrete bridges across the new stream banks, a stark reminder of what happened that night.

    And Brook Road didn’t look much better.

    I saw a pipe sticking up out of the ground about 15 to 20 feet, but when I got closer, I realized the pipe was a well casing which hadn’t moved, it was the ground around it that was no longer there and the remains of a home in the brook right next to it.

    So much devastation to homes, businesses and infrastructure. So much heartache. But we were fortunate, because we didn’t experience the tragic loss of life…we’re seeing in Texas and North Carolina today.

    And while the last couple of years have been tough for many, there have been some bright spots.

    Take Andee and Allie Ackerman from Hardwick, two young sisters who set up a lemonade stand and donated $700, every single penny, of their earnings to the Hardwick House of Pizza, which was flooded in 2023.

    Or the Mennonite Disaster Relief Service who sent a group of volunteers from Virginia and Pennsylvania to help clean up after the flooding in Barre, carrying out 2,700 buckets of muck from a basement in a single day. That’s about 45 tons.

    As we look back at how far we’ve come, it’s also important to remember the work is far from over.

    In fact, after Tropical Storm Irene, it took over a decade to complete the final project. So, we have to stay focused and continue to build back better, stronger, and more resilient.

    The floods reminded us again how connected we all are. Many of you here today didn’t think twice when your community or neighbors needed a helping hand, and that’s what makes us Vermont strong, and tough too.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Peter C. Anderson Designated as Interim U.S. Trustee for Eastern and Northern Districts of California and District of Nevada

    Source: US State of California

    Peter C. Anderson has been designated by Attorney General Pamela Bondi as the U.S. Trustee for the Eastern and Northern Districts of California and the District of Nevada (Region 17) on an interim basis effective July 11. Anderson replaces Tracy Hope Davis, who has retired after nearly 28 years of distinguished service to the U.S. Trustee Program (USTP).

    Under 28 U.S.C. § 585, the Attorney General may fill U.S. Trustee vacancies by designating an incumbent U.S. Trustee to serve in a second region. Since 2006, Anderson has served as the U.S. Trustee for the Central District of California (Region 16), and he will continue in that role while also overseeing Region 17.

    The Executive Office for U.S. Trustees made the announcement.

    The USTP’s mission is to promote the integrity and efficiency of the bankruptcy system for the benefit of all stakeholders — debtors, creditors and the public. The USTP consists of 21 regions with 88 field offices nationwide and an Executive Office in Washington, D.C. Learn more about the USTP at www.justice.gov/ust.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Peter C. Anderson Designated as Interim U.S. Trustee for Eastern and Northern Districts of California and District of Nevada

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    Peter C. Anderson has been designated by Attorney General Pamela Bondi as the U.S. Trustee for the Eastern and Northern Districts of California and the District of Nevada (Region 17) on an interim basis effective July 11. Anderson replaces Tracy Hope Davis, who has retired after nearly 28 years of distinguished service to the U.S. Trustee Program (USTP).

    Under 28 U.S.C. § 585, the Attorney General may fill U.S. Trustee vacancies by designating an incumbent U.S. Trustee to serve in a second region. Since 2006, Anderson has served as the U.S. Trustee for the Central District of California (Region 16), and he will continue in that role while also overseeing Region 17.

    The Executive Office for U.S. Trustees made the announcement.

    The USTP’s mission is to promote the integrity and efficiency of the bankruptcy system for the benefit of all stakeholders — debtors, creditors and the public. The USTP consists of 21 regions with 88 field offices nationwide and an Executive Office in Washington, D.C. Learn more about the USTP at www.justice.gov/ust.  

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Peter C. Anderson Designated as Interim U.S. Trustee for Eastern and Northern Districts of California and District of Nevada

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    Peter C. Anderson has been designated by Attorney General Pamela Bondi as the U.S. Trustee for the Eastern and Northern Districts of California and the District of Nevada (Region 17) on an interim basis effective July 11. Anderson replaces Tracy Hope Davis, who has retired after nearly 28 years of distinguished service to the U.S. Trustee Program (USTP).

    Under 28 U.S.C. § 585, the Attorney General may fill U.S. Trustee vacancies by designating an incumbent U.S. Trustee to serve in a second region. Since 2006, Anderson has served as the U.S. Trustee for the Central District of California (Region 16), and he will continue in that role while also overseeing Region 17.

    The Executive Office for U.S. Trustees made the announcement.

    The USTP’s mission is to promote the integrity and efficiency of the bankruptcy system for the benefit of all stakeholders — debtors, creditors and the public. The USTP consists of 21 regions with 88 field offices nationwide and an Executive Office in Washington, D.C. Learn more about the USTP at www.justice.gov/ust.  

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene Introduces Bill to Eliminate Capital Gains Tax on Home Sales

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene (GA, 14)

    Today, Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene (GA-14) introduced the No Tax on Home Sales Act—a bold proposal to eliminate the federal capital gains tax on the sale of primary residences. This commonsense reform delivers critical tax relief to homeowners and helps increase housing supply nationwide.

    “Families who work hard, build equity, and sell their homes should not be punished with massive tax bills,” said Congresswoman Greene. “The capital gains tax on home sales is an outdated, unfair burden—especially in today’s housing market, where values have skyrocketed. My bill fixes that.”

    Currently, the IRS allows an exclusion of up to $250,000 ($500,000 for joint filers) in capital gains from home sales, but those limits haven’t been updated since 1997. As home prices have risen, more middle-class homeowners are being hit with capital gains taxes that were originally intended for wealthy investors.

    Congresswoman Greene’s bill would:

    • Eliminate the federal capital gains tax on home sales
    • Encourage mobility by removing a key disincentive to selling, helping to increase housing supply
    • Deliver tax relief to homeowners looking to downsize or relocate without being penalized for appreciation
    • Protect first-time buyers by improving inventory and lowering prices in the most constrained housing markets

    “Homeowners who have lived in their homes for decades, especially seniors in places where values have surged, shouldn’t be forced to stay put because of an IRS penalty. My bill unlocks that equity, helps fix the housing shortage, and supports long-term financial security for American families,” Greene added.

    The bill explicitly applies to individuals selling their primary residence and does not apply to home flippers or real estate investors.

    Congresswoman Greene continues to lead on policies that strengthen American families, protect their financial futures, and restore fairness to the tax code.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Booker, Warren, DeLauro, Lawmakers Renew Push For FTC Action to Prevent Corporations From Using Trump’s Chaotic Tariffs as Cover to Price Gouge Americans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and U.S. Representative Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) led a letter to Andrew Ferguson, Chair of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), urging the agency to investigate tariff-enabled corporate price gouging which is raising costs for American families, and to use its full authority to prevent these unfair and deceptive corporate actions.
    The lawmakers previously wrote to the FTC warning that large companies could take advantage of the Trump Administration’s chaotic tariff strategy to price gouge consumers. The letter noted that the on-again, off-again tariff confusion and uncertainty has created a cover for large corporations to raise prices on all goods, regardless of whether they are actually subject to new tariffs, and to increase prices above and beyond what is necessary to cover any additional costs. Chair Ferguson did not respond to the lawmakers’ letter and has yet to take discernible action to prevent tariff-related price gouging, despite his own warning that President Trump’s tariffs “should not be interpreted as a green light for price fixing or any other unlawful behavior.”
    In June 2025, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York released new survey results showing that “a significant share” of companies raised prices of goods and services that are not subject to tariffs, confirming that businesses were indeed “taking advantage of an escalating pricing environment to increase prices.”
    Anecdotes from the Federal Reserve illustrate that tariff-enabled price gouging is already a significant and legitimate concern:
    A heavy construction equipment supplier “raised prices on goods unaffected by tariffs to enjoy the extra margin.” 
    A contact at the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco “observed that price increases that had been implemented in anticipation of certain tariffs were not rolled back once those tariffs were removed.”
    The President of the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland said she heard of firms “raising prices even though they aren’t affected by tariffs because competitors who do face higher import taxes are raising prices.”  
    “This Administration’s reckless approach is spiking costs for small businesses and creating opportunities for billion-dollar companies to grow their profits and take advantage of consumers,” wrote the lawmakers. “The FTC should be utilizing its full authority to prevent these unfair practices.”
    The lawmakers concluded the letter by urging the FTC to use its 6(b) authority to investigate any tariff-enabled price gouging and to issue a report on its findings.
    The letter is cosigned by U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and Jacky Rosen (D-NV), and U.S. Representatives Becca Balint (D-VT), Chris Deluzio (D-PA), John Garamendi (D-CA), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), James P. McGovern (D-MA), Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), and Mark Pocan (D-WI).
    To read the full text of the letter, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Northwood Declaration: 10 July 2025 (UK-France joint nuclear statement)

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Northwood Declaration: 10 July 2025 (UK-France joint nuclear statement)

    Statement by the United Kingdom and the French Republic on Nuclear Policy and Cooperation – July 2025.

    The President of the French Republic and the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom reaffirm their longstanding and resolute commitment to nuclear cooperation. There is no greater demonstration of the strength and importance of our bilateral relationship than our willingness to work together in this most sensitive area. In this regard, we commend the important achievements since 2010.

    Our nuclear weapons exist to deter the most extreme threats to the security of our nations and our vital interests.Our nuclear forces are independent, but can be coordinated and contribute significantly to the overall security of the Alliance, and to the peace and stability of the Euro Atlantic area.

    As we have explicitly stated since 1995, we do not see situations arising in which the vital interests of either France or the United Kingdom could be threatened without the vital interest of the other also being threatened. France and the United Kingdom agree that there is no extreme threat to Europe that would not prompt a response by our two nations. 

    France and the United Kingdom have therefore decided to deepen their nuclear cooperation and coordination. A UK-France Nuclear Steering Group will be established to provide political direction for this work. It will be led by the Presidency of the French Republic and the Cabinet Office and will coordinate across nuclear policy, capabilities and operations. 

    The United Kingdom and France reaffirm their full support for the Treaty on the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons and for our obligations under the treaty. We will coordinate ever more closely to uphold and reinforce the international non-proliferation architecture.

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Lancaster House 2.0: Declaration on Modernising UK-French Defence and Security Cooperation

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Lancaster House 2.0: Declaration on Modernising UK-French Defence and Security Cooperation

    Declaration on Modernising UK-French Defence and Security Cooperation.

    The UK and France, as Europe’s only nuclear powers and leading militaries, share a unique responsibility for European and international defence and security. Our two nations represent nearly 40% of the defence budget of European Allies, and more than 50% of European spending on research and technology.

    Since the Chequers Declaration in 1995, successive generations of leaders have recognised the intertwined nature of our vital interests, affirming that a threat to one would represent a threat against the other. In 2010, through the Lancaster House Treaties, our nations formalised this shared cooperation to address the challenges of that era: expeditionary warfare and counterterrorism.

    Fifteen years later, the threats we face have changed fundamentally with state-on-state conflict rising globally and, since Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine, the return of full-scale war to Europe. We have a shared responsibility to strengthen Euro-Atlantic security and recall, in this regard, the critical deterrence that NATO provides. We reaffirm the importance of intensifying our efforts in support of NATO and acting jointly within it.  We also recognise the value of a stronger and more capable European defence that contributes positively to transatlantic and global security and is complementary to, and interoperable with, NATO. In this regard, we underline that the European Union remains a unique and essential partner for NATO. We also welcome the progress we have made on the UK-EU Security Defence Partnership in bringing together our shared interests in protecting the continent.

    The UK and France share the same understanding of the threats we face. The return of conventional warfighting at scale in Europe and beyond, strategic competition on the global stage, combined with hostile state activity, rapid expansion in hybrid warfare and disinformation, create a febrile and dangerous international order. States are increasingly using hybrid tactics against us, either directly or using proxies, to undermine our national security and our democracies. 

    The UK and France are willing and able to act together, decisively, to protect our shared interests, allies, partners in Europe and beyond, values and, fundamentally, our democratic way of life. We must be ready and willing to oppose our adversaries across the full spectrum of national security, requiring a new, whole of society and government approach. We are resolved to deepen and expand our partnership to jointly deter and respond to the heightened challenge these evolving threats pose including cyber, sabotage, espionage, malign use of artificial intelligence and foreign information manipulation and interference. This can only be achieved by the further integration of our Military, National Security, Diplomatic, Intelligence and Economic levers.

    It is in this context that we, as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and President of the French Republic, have decided to reboot, modernise and build upon our bilateral defence and security relationship, including under the Lancaster House Treaties, in order to effect a generational shift in both our bilateral cooperation and our joint contribution to the defence of Europe, its citizens and of its interests. Today, we have declared our intent to carry out a series of ambitious projects and new areas of collaboration that will underpin our defence and security relationship for the next fifteen years and beyond.

    1. Deepening our longstanding and resolute commitment to cooperation between our independent nuclear deterrents by:

    a. Setting out our contribution to the defence of European partners and NATO Allies, and stating that whilst our nuclear forces are independent, they can be coordinated, as set out in the Northwood Declaration;

    b. Enhancing mutual understanding of respective nuclear deterrence policies, doctrine and plans, and strengthening our ability to make coordinated decisions in peace time and in crisis;

    c. Expanding cooperation on nuclear research (as initiated since 2010) including by making greater use of the facilities in each other’s countries;

    d. Coordinating more closely to uphold and reinforce the international non-proliferation architecture; and

    e. Establishing a UK-France Nuclear Steering Group to provide political direction for this cooperation, led by the Presidency of the French Republic and the Cabinet Office to coordinate across policy, capability and operations.

    2. Launch the Combined Joint Force – overhauling the existing Combined Joint Expeditionary Force to refocus it on the Euro-Atlantic and warfighting at scale to deter, placing it on an operational footing for the first time by endeavouring to:

    a. Significantly increase the declared Combined Joint Force (CJF) capacity, up to fivefold, ensuring the ability to plan and command Combined Corps Capability (the highest level of fielded forces in our armies). This Corp can provide the Land component of a broader joint force combining all military functions, as part of NATO or bilaterally. The CJF will facilitate the deployment of a force fully interoperable with NATO and available as the Alliance’s Strategic Reserve; this is a critical step towards the UK and France providing two fully interoperable Strategic Reserve Corps to NATO, enabled by the CJF.

    b. Adopt new missions, enabling the CJF to conduct activity in the Euro-Atlantic to deter our adversaries and reassure our Allies and partners, while also being prepared to compete with our adversaries further afield if needed.

    c. Establish a mechanism to share, coordinate and synchronise military activity and the deployment of UK and French forces globally, ensuring we are providing the most effective deterrence posture.

    d. Establish a dedicated cell to operationalise the CJF, overseeing military strategic coordination and planning through to operational coordination.

    e. Maintain the ability for the CJF to integrate additional allies and partners under UK-French leadership and to ensure the CJF is complementary to NATO.

    f. Use the CJF structures to underpin the Coalition of the Willing for Ukraine. The force will provide the joint planning framework to cohere the Coalition, ensure joint operational and strategic messaging. It will provide Coalition leadership and command and control for the planning and operational deployment of the Coalition covering all five domains, preparing for the operational deployment of the CJF in the event of a ceasefire – which can be supported by allies.

    3. Embark upon an ‘Entente Industrielle’ to enhance capability and industrial co-operation, bringing our defence industries and militaries closer than ever before to strengthen NATO, by endeavouring to:

    a. Launch the development phase of the Future Cruise and Anti-Ship Weapon (FC/ASW) programme to provide the next generation of long-range, highly survivable Deep Strike Missiles.

    b. Jointly develop the next generation of beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles for our fighter jets, while also extending the Meteor capability, launching a joint study with industry to inform our future development of its successor.

    c. Acquire new SCALP & Storm Shadow missiles, following their successful use by Ukraine, upgrading UK and French production lines to bolster national stockpiles to deter our adversaries.

    d. Establish a new, joint Complex Weapons Portfolio Office, embedded with OCCAR, through which we will deliver our joint projects within OCCAR, starting with SCALP & Storm Shadow acquisition and also working closely with MBDA to identify the opportunities from our investments and to reduce duplication, working closely with MBDA, starting with studies on Air Dominance and Cooperative Strike future capabilities.

    e. Focus greater efforts on integrated air and missile defence (IAMD) in our capability relationship, including (but not limited to) C-UAS and counter-hypersonic capabilities, drawing especially from the Aster family increments, including potentially SAMP/T NG and CAMM.

    f. Continue to work closely on current and future long range strike capabilities through the European Long Range Strike Approach (ELSA initiative). Along with our ELSA allies (amongst them Germany), we will remain open to expanding this cooperation to extended-range deep strike capability should military requirements and industrial capacity align. We will be carefully examining, with our defence industries, the capability opportunities this presents.

    g Develop a Directed Energy Weapons partnership, sharing information, collaborating on research and projects of shared interest, and exploring industry collaboration on radiofrequency weapons.

    h. Collaborate on developing algorithms for synchronised missile and drone strikes using artificial intelligence and machine learning, to build our future interoperability.

    i. Explore a combat air interoperability roadmap, including potential collaboration on armaments, to support the connectivity and interoperability of our current and future combat air forces and their contribution to European and NATO air superiority.

    j. Commit to align standards for weapons safety and testing, to bring operational benefits and save time and money in our joint programmes.

    k. Work closely together on wider export campaigns for UK-French capabilities and establishing a new joint team, with an initial focus on supporting the export of A400M (including through the set up of a NATO High Visibility Project) and identifying further concrete areas for joint export promotion.

    l. Recognising the importance of improving European defence industrial resilience, the UK and France will enhance reciprocal market access in defence and security.

    4.  Develop new cooperation in every domain to enhance military interoperability and support NATO, driven by annual meetings of our Joint Chiefs. This will include:

    a. Developing a new Bilateral Vision Statement between the armies and committing to enduring support to NATO through the CJF. This represents operational interoperability at the highest level of fielded forces in our armies, enhancing British and French joint commitments and opportunities offered through the Forward Land Forces in Estonia.

    b. Driving naval interoperability in support of warfighting, notably on information, data and communications, leveraging the opportunities of next generation digital architectures, deepening cooperation on maritime air defence, and continuing to coordinate Carrier Strike Group activity. Additionally, expanding cooperation on global maritime domain awareness to better deter maritime hybrid threats, including to critical undersea infrastructure and sanctions circumvention by the Russian Shadow Fleet, with an initial focus on the Channel and the Atlantic. Finally, facilitating mutual access support facilities for naval aircraft and warships.

    c. Increasing the complexity of combined Air Defence exercises, cooperating on responses to High-Altitude threats, enhancing cooperation in the development of Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) capabilities, particularly in the integration of Command And Control (C2) systems. Pursuing a joint ambition to develop the A400M into a multi-mission platform, incorporating C2, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) and potential strike capabilities. Aiming to synchronise fast jet pilot training to enhance interoperability and efficiency.

    d. Enabling interoperability across the space domain, including satellite communications capabilities, developing cooperation and potential joint capability in space control, space-based ISR systems, and Low Earth Orbit satellites. We will jointly spearhead closer operational space coordination and deliver space support to bolster Euro-Atlantic security operations.

    e. Sharing best practice in Cyber, with the UK providing support to the French establishment of a Cyber Training Academy, and France supporting the establishment of the UK’s new Cyber & Electromagnetic Command. Jointly galvanising wider NATO Cyber exercise activity, whilst fusing UK-French operational cooperation to act amongst Allies as European leaders in the domain.

    5. Reinforce the UK-France integrated defence and security partnership to deter and respond to the full spectrum of threats, by endeavouring to:

    a. Work together to make the fullest possible use of the UK-EU Security and Defence Partnership. Noting the shared UK and EU commitment to explore possible mutual involvement in respective defence initiatives, including within the Security Action For Europe (SAFE) instrument, in accordance with the respective legal frameworks, the UK and France will explore possibilities for mutually beneficial enhanced cooperation.

    b. Strengthen our defence and security policy coordination and cooperation on key areas for Euro-Atlantic security (Ukraine, NATO, the future of Euro-Atlantic security) and reasserting the unique contribution of our bilateral partnership to European and global security.

    c. Exploit areas of policy dialogue and cooperation in countering hybrid threats, Space, Cyber and AI – including through fostering links between national agencies, exchanging doctrines and responsible practices.

    d. Launch a new Global Maritime Security Dialogue to cohere our strategic approaches to deterring threats to our shared maritime interests.

    e. Establishing a dialogue on Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief to build on our existing frameworks and scope future mutual assistance arrangements.

    f. Coordinate and align resources to enhance regional resilience, including on maritime security, in the Indo-Pacific in the medium-term and, in accordance with our respective international obligations, provide for reciprocal base access to facilities, including Réunion Island, New Caledonia and French Polynesia.

    g. Bring together our intelligence, law enforcement and policy expertise across the overt and covert environments to deter, counter and respond to the full range of hybrid threats including physical threats to people, sabotage and foreign interference, including Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference (FIMI), cyber and espionage.  Jointly pursuing attributions and coordinating on sanctions, as well as exploring how we can further lead joint operational efforts to combat the hybrid threats. We will continue our cooperation in NATO, G7 and other multilateral forums.

    h. Further strengthen our cooperation to counter FIMI, to raise the costs for states seeking to undermine our security and democratic institutions. We will pursue the interoperability of our systems to analyse FIMI and increase efforts to jointly respond to it, including through exposure, sanctions and strategic communication. We will continue working together to build collective responses to FIMI in multilateral fora.

    i. Build on the UK-French Pall Mall Process and the Paris Call for Trust and Security in Cyberspace, to tackle the threat posed by the proliferation of commercial cyber intrusion capabilities and address the shared challenges we face in cyberspace, and increase the cost to our adversaries through deterrence, sanctions and attributions.

    j. Engage in regular technical exchanges and proactively exploring joint research opportunities to harness the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence and emerging technologies, while addressing associated national security challenges. The UK and France are uniquely placed to lead international efforts and response capabilities.

    k. Jointly maximise our impact against the highest-threat terrorist groups. Internationally, we will deepen our cooperation with Syria, and will look to enhance our coordination against the expanding terrorist threat in sub-Saharan Africa and central Asia. Domestically, we will build resilience against terrorist threats to critical infrastructure, including transport connections between our countries.

    6. Enhance communications and institutional exchanges across our two systems, as an enabler to our strengthened partnership across the entirety of defence and national security, by endeavouring to:

    a. Develop a new joint UK-France cross government secure communication system.

    b. Expand people and training links between the UK and French Militaries, optimising our networks of exchange and liaison officers, with a focus on junior officer exchanges, to develop a shared strategic culture in the next generation of military leaders across all three services.

    c. Continue to enable the constant exchange of national security and defence personnel and their families, to constantly deepen and forge our relationship for future generations and to ensure our Armed Forces have the conditions they need to perform effectively, and that they, and their family members, do not experience disadvantages as a result of their service. This might include reciprocal access to rights to work and related facilitations for defence personnel and their household members serving in each other’s countries.

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Bonfire decision

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    Statement by TUV deputy leader Councillor Ron McDowell:

    “The decision taken by the PSNI to not move in against the South Belfast bonfire is both welcome and unsurprising.

    “Focus however must not be placed on the police at this time but rather blame must be parked where it belongs at the door of incompetent governance in Belfast City Council.

    “When the SP&R committee decided on Wednesday to formally ask the PSNI to interject against the bonfire the decision was not made in conjunction with advice from the PSNI, the fire service, NIE or any other statutory body but rather the vote came down on Orange and Green opinions around Unionist traditions.

    “In the middle of all of this we had some very suspicious calls from the Belfast City Council Chief Executive John Walsh who to aid the removal of the bonfire suspended the community safeguarding call-in process.

    “All in all this entire process has been a shambles from the start and whilst the decision from by the PSNI is the correct one I cannot help but think that if proper engagement from the council and replaced the partizan approach then we need not have walked this path.

    “I commend the bonfire builders for taking initiative — reducing the size of the fire unilaterally was both responsible and effective. That action embodies their victory.

    “Finally, I thank Jamie Bryson for having the courage to initiate the judicial review. His legal challenge helped prompt the scrutiny needed, and we now have the right resolution.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Launch of “green corridor” for student visa application facilitates more convenient human exchanges between China and Russia – Chinese Consul General in Khabarovsk Jiang Xiaoyang

    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

    VLADIVOSTOK, July 10 (Xinhua) — The green corridor for student visas recently launched by the Chinese Consulate General in the Russian city of Khabarovsk has facilitated more convenient people-to-people exchanges between China and Russia, Chinese Consul General in Khabarovsk Jiang Xiaoyang told Xinhua.

    According to Jiang Xiaoyang, with the new academic year approaching, in order to facilitate the procedures for obtaining a study visa to China, the Chinese Consulate General in Khabarovsk will launch a “green corridor” for students from June 30 to August 31, 2025. During this period, the consular section of the Consulate General will provide services such as priority check in the system for an X-category visa /X1 or X2 visas are issued, respectively, for long-term study with a stay of over 180 days and short-term study with a stay of up to 180 days/ and out-of-turn service for students who personally submit their passports after online approval of the application.

    As the Consul General emphasized, China adheres to the course of high-level openness to the outside world and constantly optimizes the visa policy to facilitate more convenient exchanges between residents of China and foreign countries. According to him, humanitarian exchanges are an important part of Chinese-Russian relations, the parties closely cooperate in the field of education, the number of Chinese students in Russia and Russian students in China is constantly growing.

    Jiang Xiaoyang added that the Consulate General intends to create more convenient conditions for processing documents for young Russian students from its consular district who wish to continue their education in China. The diplomatic mission hopes that all students will achieve success in their studies, become successors of the cause of Chinese-Russian friendship, and promote cooperation between the two countries.

    The Chinese Consulate General in Khabarovsk reported that 116 Russian students have received visas to China through the “green corridor” to date. –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: Kaine Statement on Virginia’s Slip in ‘Top States for Business’ Ranking

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

    WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine released the following statement after Virginia fell behind North Carolina, Texas, and Florida in the CNBC’s Top States for Business report for 2025: 

    “Virginia’s slip in CNBC’s Top States for Business ranking once again highlights that the chaos and uncertainty caused by President Trump’s tariffs, the slashing of federal funding, and the politicizing and hollowing out of the federal workforce are gut punches to Virginia’s economy. While I’m glad to see Virginia ranked first in the education category, I worry we won’t hang on to it for long if Trump keeps meddling in our universities. I will continue to do everything I can to protect Virginia’s economy and schools from this disastrous administration.”

    Virginia ranked first on CNBC’s list multiple times while Kaine was governor, including during the list’s first-ever release in 2007.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaine Statement on Trump’s New Taxes on Americans to Protest Anti-Corruption Efforts in Brazil

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

    WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, the top Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere, released the following statement after President Donald Trump pledged a 50 percent tariff on goods from Brazil in response to steps the country is taking to hold its former president accountable for attempting a coup:

    “The last thing Americans want is another trade war that will raise prices and throw businesses into uncertainty—and for what? To punish Brazil for taking steps to hold President Trump’s disgraced friend accountable for trying to overthrow its government? Trump is so sensitive about his own attempted coup on January 6 that he’s willing to put deranged political grievances and his own interests over what’s best for our economy. As multiple courts have ruled, most of Trump’s tariffs are illegal and an abuse of executive authorities. Using tariffs to interfere with foreign judicial proceedings takes abuse of power to a whole new level.

    “I will use all available means to block these latest job-killing tariffs, which are nothing more than a tax on American consumers.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Major milestone for Indigenous-led innovation

    The Aboriginal Business Investment Fund (ABIF) helps Indigenous community-owned businesses thrive by supporting the purchase or upgrade of the equipment and infrastructure needed to create more jobs and continue contributing to sustainable, thriving communities.

    Alexander Chemical received a $400,000 ABIF grant in 2024, which helped turn its vision for growth into reality. With support from ABIF, this cutting-edge business is increasing its capacity to produce high-quality diesel exhaust fluid, which reduces harmful nitrogen oxide emissions in diesel engines. This expansion marks a major milestone in Indigenous-led clean technology and economic development.

    “This investment is what economic reconciliation looks like. Alexander Chemical is creating jobs and new revenue streams for the community of Alexander First Nation while leading the way in clean technology. It shows what’s possible when Indigenous communities have access to capital, partnerships and opportunity.”

    Rajan Sawhney, Minister of Indigenous Relations

    “On behalf of Alexander First Nation leadership and membership, we are beyond proud of Alexander Chemical and the expansion of its facilities. We would also like to thank Alberta’s government for its contributions through ABIF to help support this major milestone. This venture will be a vital part of the success of all parties involved, Alexander Chemical, Alexander Business Centre LP and Alexander First Nation. The economic impact this will have for our Nation is immeasurable and will be felt for generations to come. Mother Earth provides us many things we rely on daily, and we are grateful to Alexander Chemical for its commitment to finding solutions to protect the environment. Hiy Hiy.”

    George Arcand Jr, Chief, Alexander First Nation

    Alexander Chemical’s advanced equipment, capacity and expertise in high-end chemical testing and production are unique among Indigenous-owned businesses in Canada. In addition to diesel exhaust fluid, Alexander Chemical produces a wide range of environmentally friendly and sustainable cleaning, disinfecting and life science products, serving clients across multiple industries.

    Since 2014, ABIF has supported more than 100 Indigenous businesses, helping create nearly 1,000 jobs for Indigenous people in Alberta. Alberta’s government doubled ABIF funding in recent years, with $10 million available annually. Grants of up to $750,000 are available and applications are open until Oct. 15, 2025.

    With a suite of programs and initiatives focused on economic development, ABIF offers more options than ever before for Indigenous communities, businesses and organizations to find support as they develop and grow.

    Quick facts

    • Alexander First Nation is located about 60 km northwest of Edmonton.
    • Alexander Business Corporation is the Nation’s economic development branch, which owns and operates several companies across Alberta and in the community of Alexander First Nation.

    Related information

    • Aboriginal Business Investment Fund
    • Alexander Chemical

    Related news

    • Supporting Indigenous business development (Mar 21, 2025)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Officers cleared of misconduct following death in custody

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Two officers accused of failing to properly care for a man who died having knowingly swallowed drugs have been cleared at a disciplinary hearing.

    The hearing, which ended on Thursday, 10 July, found the allegations against PCs Justin Hulf and Mara Sow, both attached to the South Area Command Unit, not proven in connection with the death of Mikias Tekeste.

    The hearing had been directed by the Independent Office for Police Conduct after the Met disagreed with its assessment the officers had a case to answer for gross misconduct.

    Detective Chief Superintendent Nick Blackburn, who leads policing in the area, said: “Our officers have a clear duty of care to those in their custody. However, Mr Tekeste was responsible for his actions that day and knowingly swallowed drugs.

    “The hearing has found that the officers with him in the police van that day acted appropriately.

    “Our thoughts remain with Mr Tekeste’s family and friends for their loss.”

    On 15 July 2023, PCs Hulf and Sow identified Mr Tekeste, aged 30, as wanted on recall to prison. As they arrested him, he threw away a quantity of class A drugs. He was searched and placed in a police van to be transported to Croydon custody centre.

    During the journey, he removed two small packages from his trousers and swallowed them. The officers did not see him doing so.

    At the custody centre Mr Tekeste informed the custody officer he was withdrawing and a drugs test came back positive for cocaine and opiates. He was further arrested for possession with intent to supply drugs and placed on 30-minute observations. He became unwell in the cell and had multiple seizures, before falling unconscious. Emergency medical care was provided and paramedics attended. Mr Tekeste was taken to hospital but died from cocaine toxicity.

    As with all deaths in custody, the matter was referred to the IOPC.

    The IOPC investigation concluded that while the search of Mr Tekeste was appropriate, there was inadequate supervision in the police van and PCs Hulf and Sow should face a gross misconduct hearing.

    The panel found the officers acted correctly. Mr Tekeste deliberately concealed his actions while swallowing the drugs inside the police van. The risk assessment applied by the officers was accurate with the information they held at the time and the level of supervision and observation was adequate.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Officers cleared of misconduct following death in custody

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Two officers accused of failing to properly care for a man who died having knowingly swallowed drugs have been cleared at a disciplinary hearing.

    The hearing, which ended on Thursday, 10 July, found the allegations against PCs Justin Hulf and Mara Sow, both attached to the South Area Command Unit, not proven in connection with the death of Mikias Tekeste.

    The hearing had been directed by the Independent Office for Police Conduct after the Met disagreed with its assessment the officers had a case to answer for gross misconduct.

    Detective Chief Superintendent Nick Blackburn, who leads policing in the area, said: “Our officers have a clear duty of care to those in their custody. However, Mr Tekeste was responsible for his actions that day and knowingly swallowed drugs.

    “The hearing has found that the officers with him in the police van that day acted appropriately.

    “Our thoughts remain with Mr Tekeste’s family and friends for their loss.”

    On 15 July 2023, PCs Hulf and Sow identified Mr Tekeste, aged 30, as wanted on recall to prison. As they arrested him, he threw away a quantity of class A drugs. He was searched and placed in a police van to be transported to Croydon custody centre.

    During the journey, he removed two small packages from his trousers and swallowed them. The officers did not see him doing so.

    At the custody centre Mr Tekeste informed the custody officer he was withdrawing and a drugs test came back positive for cocaine and opiates. He was further arrested for possession with intent to supply drugs and placed on 30-minute observations. He became unwell in the cell and had multiple seizures, before falling unconscious. Emergency medical care was provided and paramedics attended. Mr Tekeste was taken to hospital but died from cocaine toxicity.

    As with all deaths in custody, the matter was referred to the IOPC.

    The IOPC investigation concluded that while the search of Mr Tekeste was appropriate, there was inadequate supervision in the police van and PCs Hulf and Sow should face a gross misconduct hearing.

    The panel found the officers acted correctly. Mr Tekeste deliberately concealed his actions while swallowing the drugs inside the police van. The risk assessment applied by the officers was accurate with the information they held at the time and the level of supervision and observation was adequate.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: OTSAW Announces Official Empanelment as Certified System Integrator for Singapore’s RoMi H Robotics Middleware Framework

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, July 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Otsaw Limited (“OTSAW” the “Company”, “we”, “our”) a global developer of autonomous robotics and operations-technology healthcare solutions, announces its official empanelment as a Certified System Integrator (“SI”) under the Robotics Middleware Framework for Healthcare (“RoMi‑H”) Empanelment Program 2025, effective 1 May 2025.

    RoMi‑H, regionally known as “Robotics Middleware for Healthcare”, is the national interoperability standard that enables diverse robotic platforms to communicate seamlessly with one another within building infrastructure (e.g., elevators, automated doors), and hospital IT systems such as within Singapore’s Public Healthcare Institutions (“PHIs”). OTSAW’s SI certification allows the Company to participate directly in upcoming RoMi‑H–compliant projects, reinforcing its goal to become a leader in smart‑hospital automation.

    “In a future where hospitals rely on a mosaic of robotic platforms, we believe middleware like RoMi‑H is essential for enabling them to work together safely and efficiently,” said Mr Ling Ting Ming, Founder and CEO of OTSAW. “Our empanelment affirms OTSAW’s role as a trusted partner in delivering interoperable robotics solutions that are expected to benefit both healthcare professionals and patients, and the SI certifications aligns well with our growth strategy as we prepare for our next phase of capital formation.”

    We believe this SI accreditation delivers a compelling set of strategic advantages for OTSAW and its stakeholders because. This certification serves as a national-level validation of the Company’s technical rigor and system integration expertise under a multi-agency framework recognized globally as a benchmark for healthcare robotics interoperability. The SI accreditation is also expected to unlock access to new robotics deployment opportunities across Singapore’s public healthcare institutions—regarded by some as among the most advanced hospital networks in Asia. The certification is expected to support long-term revenue generation through OTSAW’s integrated operational technology model, which combines hardware solutions with ongoing managed services. Furthermore, successful deployments within this highly regulated environment are expected to provide a high-credibility reference site, which should strengthen OTSAW’s positioning with international health systems seeking to adopt similar smart hospital technologies.

    Analysts project the global healthcare robotics market to exceed US $20 billion by 2030, driven by increasing demand for middleware solutions that ensure safe coordination among multi‑vendor fleets (Source: Fortune Business Insights, “Healthcare Robotics Market Forecast,” 2024). We believe RoMi‑H directly addresses this interoperability gap, having already earned international recognition, including a Global Robotics Innovation Award in 2021.

    OTSAW brings a decade‑long operating history to the healthcare sector, with robotic deployments in many of Singapore’s government hospitals. Our comprehensive operational technology model offering combines autonomous robots, AI‑driven fleet management, and 24/7 field support—capabilities that we believe readily translate to logistics, security, and inspection use cases beyond healthcare.

    About OTSAW

    We are a Singapore-based company specializing in autonomous mobile robots (“AMRs”) and robotics solutions, with cutting-edge robotics software development and manufacturing capabilities. Founded in 2015, we are an innovator in advanced robotics autonomy technologies and next-generation artificial intelligence (“AI”). Our mission is to disrupt, revolutionize, and redefine the global facilities management industry with our AI-enabled AMRs and robotics solutions across security, disinfection, last-mile delivery, and healthcare facilities.

    Leveraging our core software technologies, robot and machine outdoor autonomy expertise, and AI-enabled AMRs, our products empower customers to enhance productivity, reduce reliance on human capital, and seamlessly integrate automation into their facilities management operations. By addressing labor shortages, rising wages, and labor cost challenges, we aim to empower the entire facilities management industry globally.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    The statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts, including statements relating to Otsaw Limited’s expectations regarding the commencement and completion of its proposed public offering and listing, are forward-looking statements. You can identify forward-looking statements because they contain words such as “believes,” “expects,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “seeks,” “intends,” “plans,” “estimates,” or “anticipates,” or similar expressions which concern our strategy, plans, or intentions. By their nature, forward-looking statements are not statements of historical fact or guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks, uncertainties, assumptions or changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict or quantify. Our expectations and beliefs are expressed in good faith, and we believe there is a reasonable basis for them. However, there can be no assurance that management’s expectations and beliefs will result or be achieved, and actual results may vary materially from what is expressed in or indicated by the forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement in this press release speaks only as of the date of this release. Otsaw Limited undertakes no obligation to publicly update or review any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by any applicable securities laws.

    Contact:
    Jules Abraham
    CORE IR
    +1 (212) 655-0924

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: JAMining Launches AI-Powered XRP Cloud Mining Contracts Amid Market Surge, Offering Real-Time Passive Income

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    London, United Kingdom , July 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The digital asset landscape is entering a transformative phase, and XRP, the cross-border payment token originally tailored for enterprise use, is now becoming a viable passive income stream for everyday investors. UK-based JAMining, a pioneer in AI-driven crypto infrastructure, has announced the launch of its XRP cloud mining contracts — a new generation of mining solutions combining smart automation, multi-currency flexibility, and real-time daily payouts.

    The move comes at a critical moment in the XRP ecosystem, as the token remains resilient above the $2.25 threshold and shows renewed bullish momentum. Daily transaction volumes have surged over 90%, signaling strong market engagement. Analysts now eye the $2.44 mark as a technical breakout point that could unlock broader upside, while long-term forecasts remain highly optimistic.

    A Smarter Way to Mine XRP

    JAMining’s latest product release allows users to participate in XRP mining without the burdens of hardware or technical expertise. Through AI-optimized algorithms, the platform dynamically allocates computing power across multiple assets — including BTC, ETH, DOGE, and USDC — based on market conditions, while rewarding users daily in their preferred cryptocurrency.

    “We believe cryptocurrency mining should be frictionless, transparent, and available to everyone,” said a JAMining spokesperson. “Our XRP contracts reflect this vision, giving users direct access to blockchain rewards without speculative risk or operational complexity.”

    Key Features of the XRP Mining Contracts:

    • Daily XRP Rewards: Real-time payouts with no hardware setup or maintenance
    • Multi-Asset Support: Earn in BTC, ETH, DOGE, USDC or XRP — with seamless switching
    • AI Yield Optimization: Real-time algorithmic distribution for maximizing returns
    • Global Accessibility: 100% remote control via web or app, anytime, anywhere
    • Capital Protected: Full principal returned at contract expiry, minimizing risk

    Contract Examples with Fixed Returns:

    One Platform, Global Reach

    Founded in 2004 and serving over 11 million users across 183 countries, JAMining is one of the few platforms combining full mobile accessibility with an AI-based mining strategy tailored for modern investors. Whether users seek short-term income or long-term digital asset accumulation, the platform’s contracts offer institutional-grade structure with consumer-friendly simplicity.

    In parallel with the rising demand for environmentally responsible mining, JAMining remains committed to green energy operations and transparent reporting, aligning its infrastructure with ESG standards and future-ready compliance.

    XRP’s Macro Trajectory & JAMining’s Strategic Timing

    As regulatory clarity around Ripple Labs improves and talk of potential XRP-related ETFs intensifies, investor sentiment is shifting toward structured, lower-risk exposure. JAMining’s XRP contracts provide a reliable bridge between speculative holding and consistent income — empowering users to benefit from XRP’s momentum without needing to predict price movements.

    “Whether you’re holding XRP for the long haul or just entering the ecosystem, JAMining offers a secure path to daily earnings that grows with the network.”

    About JAMining

    JAMining is an AI-powered crypto mining platform regulated in the United Kingdom, offering compliant, hardware-free investment access to high-yield digital asset contracts. Built on principles of transparency, automation, and accessibility, JAMining is redefining how users participate in the Web3 economy.

    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.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Oak Valley Community Bank Receives Approval on Over $5.3 Million in Grants Submitted to Support Modesto Gospel Mission and Tuolumne Economic Development Authority

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    OAKDALE, Calif., July 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Oak Valley Community Bank, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Oak Valley Bancorp (NASDAQ: OVLY), announced they have received approval on three 2025 Affordable Housing Program (AHP) grants which were submitted to the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco (FHLBank San Francisco) on behalf of Modesto Gospel Mission for a total of $3.75 million and Tuolumne Economic Development Authority (TEDA) for $1.596 million.

    These projects will bring meaningful and lasting impact to communities in Stanislaus and Tuolumne counties by expanding access to stable, supportive housing for vulnerable populations. Grace Place, sponsored by Modesto Gospel Mission, will renovate an existing shelter facility in Modesto to provide 67 transitional housing units, paired with essential wraparound services such as onsite case management, life skills training, job coaching, and recovery support. Hannah’s House, also by Modesto Gospel Mission, will convert a warehouse into 50 units of transitional housing, with residents gaining access to the Mission’s proven programs focused on personal empowerment and long-term independence.

    In Tuolumne County, the Westside Subdivision, sponsored by the Tuolumne Economic Development Authority (TEDA), will deliver 30 new single-family homes to serve very low- to moderate-income households, including six homes reserved for those experiencing homelessness. The development will also feature an 1,800-square-foot community center offering resident services such as job training and educational programs, along with recreational amenities like a basketball court and playground.

    As a sponsor of FHLBank San Francisco’s Community Investment Programs and advocate for the services Modesto Gospel Mission and Tuolumne Economic Development Authority provide to our community, Oak Valley Community Bank authored and provided supplemental input for this grant. “At Oak Valley Community Bank, we believe real change starts at the community level,” said Jose Sabala, VP Community Reinvestment Officer. “These grants are the result of strong partnerships with organizations rooted in compassion and service. Together with Modesto Gospel Mission and TEDA, we are investing in safe housing, supportive services, and brighter futures for our neighbors. This is what community banking is all about — showing up, working together, and making a lasting difference where it’s critically needed.”

    “We continue to make meaningful investments to address the affordable housing crisis across Arizona, California, and Nevada,” said Joseph E. Amato, interim president and CEO of FHLBank San Francisco. “This funding, delivered in partnership with our local member financial institutions, supports housing affordability solutions in urban centers, rural areas, tribal lands, and communities in need. We are helping to expand the housing supply and deliver critical support services to individuals and families who need it most.”

    Affordable Housing Program (AHP) grants from FHLBank San Francisco support the development of housing solutions for low- and moderate-income individuals across Arizona, California, Nevada, and other areas served by member financial institutions like Oak Valley Community Bank. In 2025, a total of $49.7 million in AHP grants were awarded to 31 affordable housing projects in Arizona, California, and Nevada, selected through a competitive application process. Grants are awarded to member institutions in partnership with qualified housing developers and community organizations to advance initiatives that address urgent housing needs. The AHP includes both a General Fund and a Nevada Targeted Fund, with awards granted to top-ranking proposals based on financial feasibility, project readiness, and impact on affordability. All AHP-supported projects are required to meet rigorous income eligibility and long-term retention standards, ensuring lasting access to affordable rental and owner-occupied housing. More information, including application guidelines and award criteria, is available on the FHLBank San Francisco website.

    About Modesto Gospel Mission:

    Modesto Gospel Mission is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization serving individuals and families experiencing homelessness and hardship throughout Stanislaus County. Since its founding in 1948, the Mission has delivered a comprehensive range of programs designed to support physical, emotional, and personal recovery. Key services include daily access to shelter, meals, showers, and clothing, as well as addiction recovery programs, life skill classes, employment assistance and training, a day program, a medical clinic, and an after-school youth center. These programs are intended to provide both immediate relief and long-term pathways to self-sufficiency. For more information, call (209) 529-8259 or visit www.mymission.org.

    About Tuolumne Economic Development Authority (TEDA):

    The Tuolumne Economic Development Authority, Inc. (TEDA) is a federally chartered tribal corporation established under Section 17 of the Indian Recognition Act of 1934. TEDA operates as a component unit of the Tuolumne Band of Me-Wuk Indians and is governed by the Tuolumne Me-Wuk Tribal Community Council. Created to advance the Tribe’s long-term economic vision, TEDA is responsible for financing, developing, constructing, operating, and maintaining economic development projects that support sustainable growth and economic self-sufficiency for the Tribal community. TEDA plays a central role in managing and expanding enterprise initiatives that strengthen the Tribe’s overall economic infrastructure. For more information, call (209) 928-9391 or visit tedainc.com.

    About Oak Valley Community Bank:

    Oak Valley Bancorp operates Oak Valley Community Bank & their Eastern Sierra Community Bank division, through which it offers a variety of loan and deposit products to individuals and small businesses. They currently operate through 18 conveniently located branches: Oakdale, Turlock, Stockton, Patterson, Ripon, Escalon, Manteca, Tracy, Sacramento, Roseville, two branches in Sonora, three branches in Modesto, and three branches in their Eastern Sierra division, which includes Bridgeport, Mammoth Lakes, and Bishop. The company will open its 19th branch location later this year in Lodi. For more information, call 1-866-844-7500 or visit www.ovcb.com.

    About the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco:

    The Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco is a member-driven cooperative helping local lenders in Arizona, California, and Nevada build strong communities, create opportunity, and change lives for the better. The tools and resources provided to FHLB member financial institutions propel homeownership, finance quality affordable housing, boost economic vitality, and revitalize whole neighborhoods. FHLBank San Francisco, together with its members and other partners, are making the communities they serve more vibrant and resilient and changing lives for the better.

    Contact: Chris Courtney/Rick McCarty
    Phone: (209) 848-BANK (2265)
      Toll Free (866) 844–7500
      www.ovcb.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sioux City Woman Sentenced to Prison for Federal Firearms Convictions

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

     A woman who violated multiple federal firearms laws was sentenced July 9, 2025, in federal court in Sioux City.

    Maria Francisca Portalatin, age 53, from Sioux City, Iowa, pled guilty on February 7, 2025, to one count of being a prohibited person in possession of firearms, one count of making false statements during the purchase of firearms, one count of straw purchase of firearms, and one count of concealing a person from arrest.

     Evidence in the case showed that in April of 2023, Portalatin knowingly made false statements and representations on ATF forms to Dunham’s Sports Store in Sioux City in connection with her acquisition of multiple firearms.  Portalatin later admitted to law enforcement that she was an unlawful user of methamphetamine and purchased the firearms for Freddie Summerville who she knew was prohibited from possessing a firearm.  Evidence further showed, that in June of 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Portalatin’s residence and located the four firearms she had purchased.  During an interview with law enforcement, Portalatin admitted she lied on the ATF forms and that she was aware that Freddie Summerville was wanted on a federal warrant.  In July of 2024, Portalatin and Summerville were stopped in a vehicle near Sioux Falls.  Subsequently, in an interview with law enforcement she admitted they were smoking methamphetamine and that she had helped harbor and conceal Summerville.  
     
    Sentencing was held before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand.  Portalatin was sentenced to 51 months’ imprisonment and was ordered to pay $1,400 in fines and assessments.  She must also serve a 2 year term of supervised release following imprisonment.  There is no parole in the federal system.  
    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    The case was investigated by the Sioux City Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kraig R. Hamit and Kevin C. Fletcher.  

    Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.  
    The case file number is 24-CR-04053.   Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sioux City Woman Sentenced to Prison for Federal Firearms Convictions

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

     A woman who violated multiple federal firearms laws was sentenced July 9, 2025, in federal court in Sioux City.

    Maria Francisca Portalatin, age 53, from Sioux City, Iowa, pled guilty on February 7, 2025, to one count of being a prohibited person in possession of firearms, one count of making false statements during the purchase of firearms, one count of straw purchase of firearms, and one count of concealing a person from arrest.

     Evidence in the case showed that in April of 2023, Portalatin knowingly made false statements and representations on ATF forms to Dunham’s Sports Store in Sioux City in connection with her acquisition of multiple firearms.  Portalatin later admitted to law enforcement that she was an unlawful user of methamphetamine and purchased the firearms for Freddie Summerville who she knew was prohibited from possessing a firearm.  Evidence further showed, that in June of 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Portalatin’s residence and located the four firearms she had purchased.  During an interview with law enforcement, Portalatin admitted she lied on the ATF forms and that she was aware that Freddie Summerville was wanted on a federal warrant.  In July of 2024, Portalatin and Summerville were stopped in a vehicle near Sioux Falls.  Subsequently, in an interview with law enforcement she admitted they were smoking methamphetamine and that she had helped harbor and conceal Summerville.  
     
    Sentencing was held before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand.  Portalatin was sentenced to 51 months’ imprisonment and was ordered to pay $1,400 in fines and assessments.  She must also serve a 2 year term of supervised release following imprisonment.  There is no parole in the federal system.  
    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    The case was investigated by the Sioux City Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kraig R. Hamit and Kevin C. Fletcher.  

    Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.  
    The case file number is 24-CR-04053.   Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sioux City Woman Sentenced to Prison for Federal Firearms Convictions

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

     A woman who violated multiple federal firearms laws was sentenced July 9, 2025, in federal court in Sioux City.

    Maria Francisca Portalatin, age 53, from Sioux City, Iowa, pled guilty on February 7, 2025, to one count of being a prohibited person in possession of firearms, one count of making false statements during the purchase of firearms, one count of straw purchase of firearms, and one count of concealing a person from arrest.

     Evidence in the case showed that in April of 2023, Portalatin knowingly made false statements and representations on ATF forms to Dunham’s Sports Store in Sioux City in connection with her acquisition of multiple firearms.  Portalatin later admitted to law enforcement that she was an unlawful user of methamphetamine and purchased the firearms for Freddie Summerville who she knew was prohibited from possessing a firearm.  Evidence further showed, that in June of 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Portalatin’s residence and located the four firearms she had purchased.  During an interview with law enforcement, Portalatin admitted she lied on the ATF forms and that she was aware that Freddie Summerville was wanted on a federal warrant.  In July of 2024, Portalatin and Summerville were stopped in a vehicle near Sioux Falls.  Subsequently, in an interview with law enforcement she admitted they were smoking methamphetamine and that she had helped harbor and conceal Summerville.  
     
    Sentencing was held before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand.  Portalatin was sentenced to 51 months’ imprisonment and was ordered to pay $1,400 in fines and assessments.  She must also serve a 2 year term of supervised release following imprisonment.  There is no parole in the federal system.  
    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    The case was investigated by the Sioux City Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kraig R. Hamit and Kevin C. Fletcher.  

    Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.  
    The case file number is 24-CR-04053.   Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Following Paramount’s $16 Million Settlement with Trump, Senators Markey and Luján Urge FCC to Hold Full Commission Vote on Paramount Merger

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey
    Senators send letter to Commissioner Olivia Trusty urging her to support a full Commission vote on the merger
    Letter Text (PDF)
    Washington (July 10, 2025) – Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), members of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, today wrote to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Commissioner Olivia Trusty, urging the FCC to hold a full Commission vote on the pending Paramount Global and Skydance Media merger. On July 2, Paramount Global, the parent company of CBS, agreed to pay $16 million to settle a frivolous lawsuit brought by President Donald Trump. In May 2025, as Paramount was reportedly pushing for the settlement to help facilitate approval of its merger, Senators Markey and Luján wrote to FCC Chairman Brendan Carr requesting that the FCC hold a full Committee vote on the Paramount-Skydance merger.
    In the letter, the lawmakers wrote, “As we explained in a letter to Chairman Brendan Carr in May, the Paramount-Skydance merger is unique in the FCC’s storied history, with the sitting President actively litigating against a news organization whose parent is seeking FCC approval of a major media merger. In that baseless lawsuit, Trump falsely alleged that CBS had violated state consumer protection laws through its editorial decisions around an interview of then-Vice President Kamala Harris. Although the transcript of the interview indisputably showed that Trump’s claims were a flagrant attempt to intimate the media, Paramount has nevertheless agreed to settle that lawsuit for $16 million. This settlement casts a shadow over the proposed Paramount-Skydance merger and raises serious questions about the editorial independence of one of the nation’s largest media organizations. The Commission cannot turn a blind eye to this context.”
    The lawmakers conclude, “For that reason, in our May letter, we urged Chairman Carr to hold a vote on the merger by the full Commission, instead of unilaterally directing the Media Bureau to approve it on its delegated authority. Commissioner Anna Gomez has similarly called for a full Commission vote on the merger. We respectfully request you to join her and encourage Chairman Carr to schedule a full Commission vote. The FCC owes the public a transparent, deliberative process on such a high-profile and controversial issue.”
    Senator Markey has aggressively pushed back on the Trump administration’s efforts to attack news organizations and intimidate the media. In March 2025, Senators Markey and Luján, along with Senator Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), introduced the Broadcast Freedom and Independence Act, legislation that would prohibit the FCC from revoking broadcast licenses or taking action against broadcasters based on the viewpoints they broadcast. In February 2025, Senators Markey and Luján, along with Senator Gary Peters (D-Mich.), wrote to Chairman Carr and then-Commissioner Nathan Simington regarding the FCC’s recent, politically motivated actions against broadcasters and public media.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Justice Department efforts to strip citizenship from naturalized Americans likely violate constitutional rights

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Cassandra Burke Robertson, Professor of Law and Director of the Center for Professional Ethics, Case Western Reserve University

    New American citizens recite the Oath of Allegiance during a naturalization ceremony in Miami on Aug. 17, 2018. AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee

    The Trump administration wants to take away citizenship from naturalized Americans on a massive scale.

    While a recent Justice Department memo prioritizes national security cases, it directs the department to “maximally pursue denaturalization proceedings in all cases permitted by law and supported by the evidence” across 10 broad priority categories.

    Denaturalization is different from deportation, which removes noncitizens from the country. With civil denaturalization, the government files a lawsuit to strip people’s U.S. citizenship after they have become citizens, turning them back into noncitizens who can then be deported.

    The government can only do this in specific situations. It must prove someone “illegally procured” citizenship by not meeting the requirements, or that they lied or hid important facts during the citizenship process.

    The Trump administration’s “maximal enforcement” approach means pursuing any case where evidence might support taking away citizenship, regardless of priority level or strength of evidence. As our earlier research documented, this has already led to cases like that of Baljinder Singh, whose citizenship was revoked based on a name discrepancy that could easily have resulted from a translator’s error rather than intentional fraud.

    A brief history

    For most of American history, taking away citizenship has been rare. But it increased dramatically during the 1940s and 1950s during the Red Scare period characterized by intense suspicion of communism. The United States government targeted people it thought were communists or Nazi supporters. Between 1907 and 1967, over 22,000 Americans lost their citizenship this way.

    Everything changed in 1967 when the Supreme Court decided Afroyim v. Rusk. The court said the government usually cannot take away citizenship without the person’s consent. It left open only cases involving fraud during the citizenship process.

    After this decision, denaturalization became extremely rare. From 1968 to 2013, fewer than 150 people lost their citizenship, mostly war criminals who had hidden their past.

    Sen. Joseph McCarthy appears at a March 1950 hearing on his charges of communist infiltration at the State Department.
    AP Photo/Herbert K. White

    How the process works

    In criminal lawsuits, defendants get free lawyers if they can’t afford one. They get jury trials. The government must prove guilt “beyond a reasonable doubt” – the highest standard of proof.

    But in most denaturalization cases, the government files a civil suit, where none of these protections exist.

    People facing denaturalization get no free lawyer, meaning poor defendants often face the government alone. There’s no jury trial – just a judge deciding whether someone deserves to remain American. The burden of proof is lower – “clear and convincing evidence” instead of “beyond a reasonable doubt.” Most important, there’s no time limit, so the government can go back decades to build cases.

    As law professors who study citizenship, we believe this system violates basic constitutional rights.

    The Supreme Court has called citizenship a fundamental right. Chief Justice Earl Warren in 1958 described it as the “right to have rights.”

    In our reading of the law, taking away such a fundamental right through civil procedures that lack basic constitutional protection – no right to counsel for those who can’t afford it, no jury trial, and a lower burden of proof – seems to violate the due process of law required by the Constitution when the government seeks to deprive someone of their rights.

    The bigger problem is what citizenship-stripping policy does to democracy.

    When the government can strip citizenship from naturalized Americans for decades-old conduct through civil procedures with minimal due process protection – pursuing cases based on evidence that might not meet criminal standards – it undermines the security and permanence that citizenship is supposed to provide. This creates a system where naturalized citizens face ongoing vulnerability that can last their entire lives, potentially chilling their full participation in American democracy.

    The Justice Department memo establishes 10 priority categories for denaturalization cases. They range from national security threats and war crimes to various forms of fraud, financial crimes and, most importantly, any other cases it deems “sufficiently important to pursue.” This “maximal enforcement” approach means pursuing not just clear cases of fraud, but also any case where evidence might support taking away citizenship, no matter how weak or old the evidence is.

    This creates fear throughout immigrant communities.

    About 20 million naturalized Americans now must worry that any mistake in their decades-old immigration paperwork could cost them their citizenship.

    A two-tier system

    This policy effectively creates two different types of American citizens. Native-born Americans never have to worry about losing their citizenship, no matter what they do. But naturalized Americans face ongoing vulnerability that can last their entire lives.

    This has already happened. A woman who became a naturalized citizen in 2007 helped her boss with paperwork that was later used in fraud. She cooperated with the FBI investigation, was characterized by prosecutors as only a “minimal participant,” completed her sentence, and still faced losing her citizenship decades later because she didn’t report the crime on her citizenship application – even though she hadn’t been charged at the time.

    A woman receives a U.S. flag after passing her citizenship interview in Newark, N.J., on May 25, 2016.
    AP Photo/Julio Cortez

    The Justice Department’s directive to “maximally pursue” cases across 10 broad categories – combined with the first Trump administration’s efforts to review over 700,000 naturalization files – represents an unprecedented expansion of denaturalization efforts.

    The policy will almost certainly face legal challenges on constitutional grounds, but the damage may already be done. When naturalized citizens fear their status could be revoked, it undermines the security and permanence that citizenship is supposed to provide.

    The Supreme Court, in Afroyim v. Rusk, was focused on protecting existing citizens from losing their citizenship. The constitutional principle behind that decision – that citizenship is a fundamental right which can’t be arbitrarily taken away by whoever happens to be in power – applies equally to how the government handles denaturalization cases today.

    The Trump administration’s directive, combined with court procedures that lack basic constitutional protections, risks creating a system that the Afroyim v. Rusk decision sought to prevent – one where, as the Supreme Court said, “A group of citizens temporarily in office can deprive another group of citizens of their citizenship.”

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

    – ref. Justice Department efforts to strip citizenship from naturalized Americans likely violate constitutional rights – https://theconversation.com/justice-department-efforts-to-strip-citizenship-from-naturalized-americans-likely-violate-constitutional-rights-260353

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: N.M. Delegation Welcomes Over $4.3 Million to Improve New Mexico’s Airports

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) are welcoming $4,384,758 from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for upgrades at the Albuquerque International Sunport, Artesia Municipal Airport, and Socorro Municipal Airport.

    These grants are funded through the FAA’s Airport Improvement Program, which provides grants for the planning and development of public-use airports.

    “When we invest in New Mexico’s airports, we invest in the people who rely on these facilities to do business in our state, create jobs, and contribute to our economy,” said Heinrich, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. “I am proud to welcome over $4.3 million to make improvements at the Albuquerque International Sunport and the Artesia and Socorro Municipal Airports. I will keep fighting to bring investments home to modernize our airports, improve travelers’ experiences, and drive our state’s economic growth for the future.”

    “Airports across New Mexico are critical hubs for transportation and local economies,” said Luján. “I’m proud to welcome over $4 million in federal funding for airports in Albuquerque, Artesia, and Socorro. These investments will improve safety, support local jobs, and help our airports better serve New Mexicans and visitors alike.”

    “Investing in our infrastructure keeps our communities connected and creates a foundation for prosperity in rural New Mexico. This $4,384,758 in federal funding will bring much-needed investments to not only New Mexico’s largest airport, but also our rural airports. Maintaining runways and infrastructure is the quiet work that is essential to keep our planes and passengers safe.” said Leger Fernández. “Connecting New Mexico diversifies our economy and creates local jobs across the state.”

    “Our airports are vital lifelines for trade, tourism, and connecting our communities to family and friends outside of New Mexico,” said Stansbury. “This $4.3 million for infrastructure updates for three airports across the state, including NM-01’s very own Sunport, will ensure they stay safe and efficient hubs for New Mexicans and visitors.”

    “From the Sunport to Socorro and Artesia, these airport upgrades will improve accessibility and connectivity for New Mexicans,” said Vasquez. “Safer roads, modernized runways, and new equipment mean better service for travelers and stronger support for local industries like agriculture, energy, and tourism. We’re making sure New Mexico isn’t left behind when it comes to infrastructure that keeps people and goods moving.”

    The breakdown of the FAA funding for New Mexico is below:

    FAA Funding for New Mexico

    Airport Project Description Grant Amount
    Albuquerque International Sunport This project rehabilitates 10,500 feet of existing terminal access road to extend its useful life. $3,656,508
    Artesia Municipal Airport This grant funds phase 1, which consists of design. This project rehabilitates 6,800 feet of existing paved Runway 4/22 to maintain the structural integrity and minimize foreign object debris to extend its useful life. $128,250
    Socorro Municipal Airport This grant funds a portion of the final phase, which consists of construction. This project constructs a new 2,700 square foot snow removal equipment building to bring the airport into conformity with current standards. $600,000

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Former West Virginia Correctional Officers Sentenced to Prison for Federal Civil Rights Crimes in Connection with Death of Inmate

    Source: US FBI

    CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Two former correctional officers from the Southern Regional Jail in Beaver, West Virginia, were sentenced today for their roles in an assault that resulted in the death of a pretrial detainee, identified by the initials Q.B., on March 1, 2022. Mark Holdren, 41, of Beckley, was sentenced to 20 years in prison and Johnathan Walters, 33, of Rainelle, was sentenced to 21 years in prison, with each prison sentence to be followed by three years of supervised release.

    Holdren and Walters each pleaded guilty to conspiring with other officers to violate inmate Q.B.’s civil rights, resulting in Q.B.’s death. According to court documents filed in connection with the guilty pleas, Holdren responded to a call for officer assistance after Q.B. tried to push past another correctional officer and leave his assigned pod. When Holdren arrived, officers were engaged in restraining Q.B. Holdren began using force against Q.B., including multiple knee-strikes that he knew were unreasonable.

    Holdren and other officers then conspired to violate Q.B.’s civil rights by unlawfully assaulting him as punishment for his attempt to leave the pod. As a part of the conspiracy, Holdren and other officers brought Q.B. to an interview room, where Walters joined them. In the interview room, Holdren and other officers used unreasonable force against Q.B., including striking Q.B. in the head multiple times, kicking, knee-striking him, pulling and twisting his fingers, and using pepper spray, all while Q.B. was restrained, handcuffed and posed no threat to anyone.

    After assaulting Q.B. in the interview room, officers transported him to another pod. During the transport, Q.B. became limp and was unable to walk on his own. Walters and other officers then carried Q.B. by his arms and legs to the pod’s entryway door, where Walters admitted he used unreasonable force to swing Q.B.’s head into the metal door to open the door. Walters and other officers then carried Q.B. into a cell, where they dropped the unresponsive and handcuffed Q.B. onto the concrete floor. Shortly thereafter, responding emergency medical personnel declared that Q.B. was deceased.

    With their guilty pleas, Holdren and Walters each further admitted knowing that the interview room to which officers brought Q.B. was a “blind spot” – meaning, there were no surveillance cameras to record what happened there. Holdren and Walters were aware that, prior to the assault of Q.B. on March 1, 2022, officers would bring inmates, including pretrial detainees, who had engaged in misconduct to “blind spots” in the jail, so that officers could use unreasonable force without being captured on video, thereby avoiding accountability for their actions. Holdren and Walters each further admitted knowing that officers could not use unreasonable force to punish inmates, including pretrial detainees such as Q.B.  

    United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed today’s sentences.

    Holdren and Walters are two of six correctional officers who were indicted in this case. In November 2024, defendant Corey Snyder pleaded guilty in connection with the use of unreasonable force against Q.B., resulting in his death. Jacob Boothe pleaded guilty in August 2024 to failing to intervene to protect Q.B. from the officers’ assault. Snyder and Boothe are scheduled for sentencing before Judge Goodwin on July 10, 2025.

    Ashley Toney pleaded guilty on August 8, 2024, to failing to intervene to protect Q.B. from the officers’ assault. Judge Goodwin sentenced Toney, 25, of Fairdale, to six years and six months in prison on June 9, 2025.

    On January 27, 2025, a federal jury returned guilty verdict at trial for the sixth indicted defendant, Chad Lester, a former lieutenant at the Southern Regional Jail, finding him guilty on three obstruction of justice charges for his role in conspiring to cover up the death of Q.B. Judge Goodwin sentenced Lester, 35, of Odd, to 17 years and six months in prison on May 15, 2025.

    Prior to the indictment of the six defendants, former correctional officers Steven Nicholas Wimmer and Andrew Fleshman each pleaded guilty to conspiring to use unreasonable force against Burks. Chief United States District Judge Frank W. Volk sentenced Wimmer, 26, of Bluefield, to nine years in prison on May 7, 2025. Fleshman, 23, of Shady Spring, is scheduled for sentencing before Chief Judge Volk on July 14, 2025.

    Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston for the Southern District of West Virginia made today’s announcement.

    The FBI Pittsburgh Field Office investigated the case.

    Deputy Chief Christine M. Siscaretti and Trial Attorney Tenette Smith of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division prosecuted the case in partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:23-cr-188.

    ###

     

     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jury Convicts Tallahassee Man of Attempting to Entice a Minor to Engage in Sexual Activity

    Source: US FBI

    TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Jelani Amari Petersen, 28, of Tallahassee, Florida, was found guilty by a federal jury yesterday of attempting to entice a minor to engage in unlawful sexual activity. The verdict was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

    U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “I am proud of the great work by my office and our state and federal law enforcement partners to take this sex offender off our streets. This case exemplifies the mission set forth by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pamela Bondi: protect America’s children against predators like this defendant. My office will continue to aggressively prosecute such offenses to keep our most vulnerable members of the community safe from the predations of these sick individuals.”

    Trial testimony demonstrated that in September 2024, federal, state, and local law enforcement executed Operation Lifeguard, an undercover operation designed to apprehend individuals who use the Internet to sexually exploit children online. During the operation, Petersen communicated with an undercover officer who he believed to be a minor female, and expressed interest in engaging in sexual activity with the child in exchange for money. When Petersen arrived at a pre-arranged meeting location, law enforcement arrested him and searched his car. A subsequent search of his cellular phone, confirmed his communication with the undercover officers.

    Petersen faces a minimum mandatory sentence of 10 years in federal prison and a maximum of life imprisonment, followed by a term of five years to life of supervised release. He will also be required to register as a sex offender.

    The case involved a joint investigation by the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Homeland Security Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Justin M. Keen and Meredith Steer.

    Sentencing is scheduled for October 3, 2025, at 11:00 am at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee before Chief United States District Judge Allen C. Winsor.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice and led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Divisions Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), it marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

    The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

    MIL Security OSI –