NewzIntel.com

Category: DJF

  • MIL-Evening Report: E-bikes and e-scooters are popular – but dangerous. A transport expert explains how to make them safer

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Geoff Rose, Professor in Transport Engineering, Monash Institute of Transport Studies, Monash University

    nazar_ab/Getty

    Last weekend a pedestrian in Perth tragically died after being struck by an e-scooter.

    This followed the death of another person in Victoria last month who was hit and killed by a modified e-bike which police alleged could travel at 90 kilometres per hour.

    A study published earlier this week also found nearly 180 e-scooter injuries in young people aged five to 15 at the Sunshine Coast University Hospital in 2023 and 2024. One in ten injuries were life-threatening or potentially life-threatening.

    Even though e-bikes and e-scooters have many benefits, such as improving urban accessibility and giving people scope to reduce or even eliminate carbon-emitting car use, these examples highlight their associated risks.

    For these risks to be properly addressed, an overhaul of regulations covering e-bikes and e-scooters is urgently needed.

    All to do with power

    E-bikes have a battery-powered motor to assist the rider. The key word there is “assist”: to be legal the rider has to be pedalling to get the power assistance.

    E-scooters are a new variant of the once humble children’s kick scooter. They are more sturdy to support an adult rider, and the battery-powered motor provides all the power.

    Some e-bikes and e-scooters have throttles, which enable riders to accelerate to higher speeds without pedalling. Technically, these are illegal.

    These new forms of urban transport are surging in popularity. This year alone, about 150,000 e-bikes are forecast to be sold across the country. An estimated 350,000 Australians – about 1.3% of the population – owned an e-scooter in 2024.

    Regulations governing e-bikes and e-scooters were historically designed with reference to the power required to ride a regular bicycle.

    A person needs to provide power equal to 220 watts to propel a regular bicycle at 32km/h on a flat road without a headwind.

    The figure of 250 watts emerged as the baseline in Europe for the power limit on e-bikes. It is 500 watts in Canada and 750 watts in the United States.

    In 2017, Australia harmonised its e-bike regulations with with those in Europe.

    The regulations specify that power-assisted e-bikes can have a motor up to 250 watts. But the rider must pedal to get the power assistance and it must cut out above 25km/h.

    E-bikes can travel faster than 25km/h. But the rider has to be providing all the power above that speed.

    The same power limit was applied to e-scooters. But given their design and smaller wheels, regulators in Australia were more conservative, specifying a 20km/h maximum speed.

    Differences across Australian states have since emerged with New South Wales allowing e-bikes up to 500 watts. Queensland has also removed motor power output from its e-scooter regulations and allows them to travel at speeds up to 25km/h.

    There are two main problems with the existing system of regulations. First, there is nothing to stop the import of high-performance e-bikes and e-scooters from overseas. Second, enforcement is difficult and rarely occurs, because the police don’t have the equipment to easily test motor power.

    There is a wide variety of e-bikes on the market.
    Sergey Ryzhov/Shutterstock

    What needs to change?

    The federal government has a clear role to play in stemming the import of e-bikes and e-scooters that exceed the legal limits for public use in Australia.

    However there is no evidence the government has engaged with the issue. This is inconsistent with its commitment to the National Road Safety Strategy and the approach taken to the management of vehicle safety and import regulations which apply to motor vehicles.

    State and territory governments must revise and simplify their e-bike and e-scooter regulations.

    Tasmania is on the front foot with its review of e-bike regulations. But e-scooter regulations also need reform – to make them easier for the public to understand, to ensure these devices offer a viable travel option for people and, importantly, to enable efficient enforcement.

    Local government and road authorities should have the power to set speed limits for e-bike and e-scooter riders on shared paths.
    Cromo Digital/Shutterstock

    A few changes to the rules could then make a big difference.

    For a start, references to motor power should be removed because the severity of a crash depends on speed not the power of the device. Having the regulations framed in terms of power is a complication for enforcement and we don’t use it to regulate motor vehicles.

    Then we need to focus on where, and how fast, these vehicles can be ridden.

    A good first step would be to follow the lead of Queensland and Tasmania and legalise footpath riding, subject to a 12km/h or 15km/h speed limit as is the case in those states.

    Restricting e-scooters to low-speed roads (up to 50km/h), and with a lower speed limit when ridden on the footpath, would minimise the risk of dangerous collisions with pedestrians and reduce the risk of dangerous collisions with cars on high-speed roads.

    Specifying a max speed under power assistance for e-bikes of 32km/h would bring us in line with the regulations for countries that have cities similar to Australia’s such as Canada and New Zealand.

    This would open our market to more models from overseas. It would also ensure e-bikes are better able to keep up with traffic when ridden on roads and are more competitive in terms of travel time relative to the car, to help further reduce car use.

    When it comes to e-scooters, moving to a 25km/h speed limit (as is the case in Queensland), combined with restricting their use to roads of up to 50km/h, would improve their compatibility with the flow of motor vehicles on local streets.

    Local government and road authorities should also have the power to declare areas where footpath riding is not permitted – for example, inner-city footpaths with heavy pedestrian activity. They should also have the power to set speed limits for riders on shared paths and bicycle lanes where there is likely to be interaction with pedestrians.

    With those changes in place, police would be able to enforce displayed speed limits for e-bikes and e-scooters using radar guns, as is already done in Queensland, and issue fines where appropriate.

    Geoff Rose has received in-kind support for his research, in the form of data, from shared e-scooter operating companies; he has served on the oversight panel for the Victorian Government’s shared e-scooter trial and he has consulted to the Tasmanian Department of State Growth on e-bike regulations.

    – ref. E-bikes and e-scooters are popular – but dangerous. A transport expert explains how to make them safer – https://theconversation.com/e-bikes-and-e-scooters-are-popular-but-dangerous-a-transport-expert-explains-how-to-make-them-safer-257126

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Discussion on President Trump’s One, Big, Beautiful Bill

    Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)

    Senior White House officials Taylor Budowich, Stephen Miller, Russ Vought, and James Braid discuss President Trump’s One, Big, Beautiful Bill.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vAvXIapb-2s

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Booker Statement on President Trump Reinstating U.S. Travel Ban

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee and Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and the ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health Policy, issued the following statement after Donald Trump announced a full travel ban on 12 countries and partial travel restrictions on another 7:

    “This reckless and discriminatory ban doesn’t make us safer. All it will do is further isolate the United States from our allies and weaken our global leadership. Indiscriminately closing our doors to people fleeing violence and instability, preventing U.S. citizens from reuniting with their families, or singling out people simply because of the country in which they were born, is antithetical to our nation’s most fundamental values.

    “This ban also comes at a time when Trump has redirected significant counterterrorism resources to deporting longtime, taxpaying, law-abiding, U.S. residents. Our national security officers should be focused on investigating serious threats, not barring entry to our country based on bias and pretext.

    “Like we did in his first term, Americans must once again stand up against this renewed attempt to vilify and exclude at the expense of our most cherished values.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Wicker Leads SASC Hearing on the Department of the Army’s Posture and Readiness

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Mississippi Roger Wicker

    Watch Video Here

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today led a hearing on the Department of the Army’s posture and requirements for the challenges ahead.

    During the hearing, the committee received testimony from the Army’s senior civilian leader, Secretary Driscoll, and the highest-ranking commissioned officer within the Department of the Army, General George.

    In his opening remarks, Chairman Wicker emphasized that this hearing marked the beginning of the Army’s dialogue with Congress on the Army’s Transformation Initiative (ATI) and underscored the committee’s willingness to partner with Army leadership to address fundamental problems within the service.

    Read Senator Wicker’s hearing opening statement as delivered.

    Good morning. The Senate Armed Services Committee meets today to receive testimony on the posture of the United States Army. I want to thank our witnesses, Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll and the Chief of Staff of the Army General Randy George, for being here.  Unfortunately, it seems the detailed Fiscal Year 2026 budget will not be available for several more weeks.

    Nonetheless, we will benefit from speaking with you both, Secretary Driscoll and General George. In the past month, we’ve been speaking publicly about the Army Transformation Initiative, or “ATI”. This initiative seeks to change portions of the Army’s capabilities and force structure while maintaining the Army’s flat budget.

    The Army provided this committee with the first real set of details on the ATI about a week ago. This hearing marks the beginning of the Army’s discussion with Congress on the idea.  We are ready to work with you, gentlemen.

    In fact, we must work together rapidly to fix fundamental problems with the U.S. Army.  Since 2000, the list of failed Army modernization initiatives – such as the Comanche helicopter, the Crusader howitzer, and the Future Combat Systems – has continued to grow.

    Between 2002 and 2012, the Army spent $50 billion on programs it eventually canceled. The record in the past five years has been better but still contains significant missteps. The Army recently spent $2 billion on a scout helicopter that will never fly. Other cancellations of programs have followed, including the Strategic Long-Range Cannon program, the Extended Range Cannon Artillery programs, and the M-10 Booker armored infantry support vehicle, as well as the “Hum-Vee.”

    Fundamentally, the Army needs to decide how to adapt to the changing character of warfare and meet priority missions, particularly against China and Russia. Mr. Secretary, many ideas you propose in your Transformation Initiative and your budget will meet that mark. I think you will find widespread support for increasing investments in long-range fires and air and missile defense, as you proposed. I would note, however, the lack of logistics investments in your plan, given the Army’s central role in logistics in the Pacific – so perhaps we’ll talk about that.

    Mr. Secretary, I think you will find Congress a very willing partner when presented with convincing analysis that justifies investment changes. In particular, those changes should help American soldiers deter war and, if necessary, win in convincing fashion. Where we do disagree, will likely be in effects on the industrial base. Our defense industrial base is brittle. We cannot afford to let sites close, or we will lose the defense expertise of many skilled workers. We need investment strategies that recognize this. Our investments should provide stability and ensure the United States can maintain maximum competition. The Army cannot follow the “divest to invest” strategy that the Navy and Air Force have wanted to pursue. The United States faces too many threats today to leave gaps in capabilities. It will require tightly woven investment strategies among the Army, Congress, and industry to get this right.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: More Sons of Freedom Doukhobors receive support to heal

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    More people belonging to the Sons of Freedom Doukhobor community are receiving financial health and well-being support, as part of the B.C. government’s apology for historical wrongs committed against them.

    In August 2024, the Province, in partnership with the Canadian Red Cross, distributed funds to living survivors who were forcibly apprehended and kept in New Denver as children. Now, the remaining health and well-being funds will be shared among:

    • living survivors who were not school-aged when they were forcibly taken, and
    • deceased survivors’ descendants, including spouses or common-law partners and legally adopted children.

    Descendants of survivors who are still alive or who have already received the health and well-being fund are not eligible to receive additional support.

    This work is part of the Province’s ongoing efforts to honour the legacy of the New Denver survivors and to acknowledge the hardships they experienced at the hands of government.

    People who believe they may be eligible to receive support but have not been contacted can email the Ministry of Attorney General: sofd@gov.bc.ca.

    The deadline to contact the ministry is January 2026.

    In 1899, the Doukhobors fled persecution in Russia, seeking refuge in Canada. Many settled in the Kootenay Boundary region in B.C. During the first half of the 20th century, the Province targeted the Sons of Freedom, a group within the Doukhobor community, with fines and seizure of property for acts of civil disobedience, such as missing school and protesting naked.

    In addition, hundreds of children from the Sons of Freedom were forcibly removed from their families and placed in institutions in New Denver between 1953 and 1959. There, many of the children were subjected to physical, emotional and sexual abuse that left deep, generation-spanning scars on them, their families, loved ones and the broader community.

    The Province issued a formal apology for these historical wrongs in February 2024.

    Learn More:

    For guidelines on determining eligibility and how to access the funds, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/Backgrounder%20-%20SoF%20Health_Wellbeing%20Funds%20Phase%202.pdf

    To learn more about government’s apology, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/30239

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pelosi Statement on the Reported ICE Arrests in San Francisco

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi Representing the 12th District of California

    Washington, D.C. – Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi released the following statement on the reported ICE arrests in San Francisco:
     
    “It is stupid that ICE is now arresting families and children for obeying the law. The detained immigrants were diligently cooperating with law enforcement and complying with the law by reporting to their regularly scheduled check-in with ICE. These families were following their normal routine – and if the purpose of ICE is to ensure immigration laws and processes are enforced and followed, these arrests run counter to that mission and are inconsistent with it.

    “The traumatic impact these detainments will have on these families – including a three-year-old child – who are being detained for obeying the law is outrageous and unforgivable. This menacing conduct will instill fear in immigrants who have scheduled future check-ins with ICE officials and their trepidation may deter them from pursuing lawful pathways. Clearly ICE does not place a value on our responsibility to the wellbeing of families.

    “For a long time, there have been concerns about the behavior of ICE and how they are penalizing people who obey the law. The arrests in San Francisco are a manifestation of a broader pattern of ICE’s ineffective renegade behavior. Oversight and reform of ICE is needed now more than ever.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Buggin’ Brilliant at Mist of Life

    Source: Auckland Council

    It’s not every day a TV icon and one of Aotearoa’s most loved scientist personalities turns your local park into a lab – but that’s exactly what happened when Ruud Kleinpaste, a.k.a the Bug Man, hit Kohuora Park in Papatoetoe.

    Ruud is a naturalist, entomologist (a scientist who studies insects) and host of the Animal Planet series Buggin’ with Ruud.

    On 2 May, over 120 students, teachers, and the Sustainable Schools team gathered at Kohuora Park for a day of discovery, connection, and environmental action, made possible with funding from Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board.

    Board chair Apulu Reece Autagavaia says, “We need to care for and protect our public green spaces so that flora and fauna can thrive – so we don’t have to visit a zoo or head deep into the bush to experience wildlife right here in our urban areas.”

    Thumbs up and all hands on deck! Photo credit: Sustainable Schools.

    From kindergartens to colleges, schools across Puhinui came together in one of Papatoetoe’s best-kept secrets – Kohuora Park, a 34-million-year-old volcanic crater turned thriving wetland. Teeming with native wildlife, rich history, and cultural stories, Kohuora – meaning “mist of life”, honours the giant god Matāoho, whose footsteps shaped Tāmaki Makaurau’s volcanic landscape.

    A young scientist marvels at what he has discovered with Ruud.

    Ruud shares why, if we truly care about the planet, we need to ask ourselves some honest questions: How do the other species we share Earth with see us? Are we kind, generous, and respectful – or are we falling short?

    “Over the years, I’ve come to believe that true environmental education is the foundation for becoming nature-literate. And it starts with empowering our teachers to teach outdoors. When we do that, we create generation after generation of children who not only understand nature but learn from it.

    Bug Man in action! Ruud inspires curious minds at Kohuora Park. Photo credit: Sustainable Schools.

    “Because that’s the heart of it: we don’t just learn about nature or in nature – we learn from nature. We begin to see the connections in everything. Nature runs on sunlight, uses only what it needs, and wastes nothing. It thrives on diversity, local wisdom, and life-friendly chemistry. It’s humbling and inspiring. What an incredible planet – and what an extraordinary outdoor classroom we have right at our feet,” says Ruud.

    The day began with a warm welcome from Ngāti Tahinga Wilson of Ngāti Te Ahiwaru, who share the park’s cultural importance as a historic portage site. Image: Sustainable Schools.

    Guided by Mātātahi Taiao – a Māori-led youth climate initiative in Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland Council Rangatahi Advisors, and leading scientists like fungi expert Dr. Peter Buchanan, students explored ecosystems through a Māori lens and hands-on science stations covering insects, birds, trees, fungi, pest control, and water quality.

    Kohuora Park, Papatoetoe. A thriving natural habitat.

    Why It Matters

    Sustainable school’s advisor Cate Jessep says, “It was a valuable hands-on opportunity for teachers, students, and the wider community to connect with this special local place during Saturday’s community day. This work is more than just science, it’s about identity, guardianship, real world learning, inclusion and future leadership. As tamariki (children) engage with their local environment, they discover that they are part of it, and that they can protect it.”

    Throughout the day, they learned new kupu (words), deepened their connection to nature, and strengthened their understanding of how to care for te taiao (the environment).

    Stay up to date 

    Sign up for your Local Board E-news and get the latest news and events direct to your inbox each month. Or follow us on Facebook.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Waikeria Prison facility opens

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Today’s opening of a new 596-bed facility at Waikeria Prison will ensure Corrections can safely manage the rising prison population and provide effective services to help reduce reoffending, Corrections Minister Mark Mitchell says.
    “Our Government has restored proper consequences for crime.  Because of that, there has been an increase in the prison population and fewer victims of crime.
    “As the prison population continues to increase, this new facility will help ensure Corrections has the right level of capacity and resources to keep its staff, people in prison, and the public safe.
    “The facility is modern and fit-for-purpose. It adds 500 high-security beds to New Zealand’s prison system as well as 96 dedicated mental health and addiction beds.
    “There is also a new education and rehabilitation hub with ten classrooms to support offenders with opportunities that put them on a better path away from crime.”
    The new facility, consisting of 28 buildings, has been built across 21 hectares of land at Waikeria Prison, which is located 14 kilometres south of Te Awamutu in Waikato. Surrounded by a secure 1.7 km long perimeter fence, the new facility sits adjacent to the prison’s existing low security facility.
    Key features include:

    High-security accommodation for 500 men
    A dedicated mental health and addiction service within a new 96-bed facility
    An education and rehabilitation hub
    Large kitchen and laundry, a new waste and recycling centre, and more industry training spaces for prisoners
    Single point of entry with secure perimeter
    Advanced biometric security
    Two main visitation areas
    A modern medical centre

    “Corrections have already recruited 300 additional frontline staff for when it is ready to take prisoners in the coming months, following final assurance checks,” Mr Mitchell says.
    “Preparations are also underway for a further expansion of Waikeria Prison, which is due to be completed in 2029 and will add a further 810 beds to New Zealand’s prison system.
    “Ongoing investment in our prisons will keep us ahead of the increasing prison population and enable Corrections to focus on safety and effective rehabilitation to reduce reoffending.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Senator Coons raises concerns over Trump’s Sixth Circuit nominee’s qualifications and experience

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons

    WASHINGTON – In case you missed it, U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) earned praise yesterday for his questioning of Whitney Hermandorfer, President Donald Trump’s nominee for a seat on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit, regarding her lack of professional experience as part of a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing. 

    Trump nominated Hermandorfer to fill the vacancy left by Judge Jane Stranch’s decision to take senior status. Senator Coons questioned Hermandorfer’s readiness to fill the seat, as Hermandorfer has only 10 years of legal work experience and has never tried a case to a jury verdict, performed direct or cross examinations in federal court, taken or defended depositions, or delivered oral arguments before the U.S. Supreme Court. 

    Senator Coons pointed out that the judge Hermandorfer has been nominated to replace had over three decades of legal experience before President Barack Obama nominated her to the Sixth Circuit. He also noted that the non-partisan American Bar Association, which has historically been seen as objective vetter by presidents of both parties, would likely rate Hermandorfer as ‘unqualified’ because of her lack of experience.

    From USA TODAY: Trump nominees for judgeships face scrutiny of youth, lack of experience

    “I am concerned about the striking brevity of your professional record,” Sen. Chris Coons, a Democrat from Delaware, told Hermandorfer. He said she only graduated from law school 10 years, [sic] ago, but the judge she is being recommended to replace had 31 years on the bench before her nomination.

    Coons pointed to a longtime standard from the American Bar Association that says federal judicial appointees should have at least 12 years of experience. While the association has long been involved in vetting judicial appointments, Attorney General Pam Bondi has said the association, which many conservatives criticize as too liberal, won’t be involved.

    From POLITICO: Confirmation process begins for Trump’s first judicial nominees

    …Democratic Sen. Chris Coons of Delaware suggested the nominee lacked the experience typically seen in lawyers proposed for federal appellate judgeships.

    “I am concerned about the striking brevity of your professional record,” said Coons. “You graduated from law school just a decade ago,” said Coons.

    Under further examination by Coons, Hermandorfer acknowledged she has never been lead counsel in a federal jury trial, questioned a witness on the stand or conducted a deposition.

    A video of Senator Coons’ full questioning and transcript of his comments are available below.

    WATCH HERE

    CAC: Thank you very much. Ms. Hermandorfer, thank you for your service and the Tennessee Attorney General’s office, and congratulations to you and your family for your nomination. As you may know, I am not a reflexive ‘no’ vote on nominees of a president of the other party. I supported President Trump’s judicial nominees in his first term when they had the qualifications and experience for the job and the character and the independence to carry out the role of a judge, particularly circuit judge, with integrity. I am concerned about the striking brevity of your professional record. You graduated from law school just a decade ago, and you spent four years with impressive clerkships, but often nominees for a position such as the circuit have real experience in court. Have you ever served as the sole or chief counsel in any case, tried to a jury verdict?

    Hermandorfer: Not to a jury verdict, Senator.

    CAC: Have you ever served as the sole or chief counsel in any case tried to a final judgment?

    Hermandorfer: I’ve served as chief counsel in many final judgment cases in trial court. If you mean a bench trial, I’m sorry I don’t understand, a bench trial would be no, but final judgment.

    CAC: How many direct examinations have you personally taken in federal court?

    Hermandorfer: As an appellate lawyer, I don’t usually take direct examinations, and the answer is zero.

    CAC: How many cross examinations have you taken in federal court?

    Hermandorfer: None.

    CAC: How many depositions have you taken?

    Hermandorfer: Again, as an appellate lawyer, that’s not really part of my practice.

    CAC: How many depositions have you defended?

    Hermandorfer: I have not defended depositions.

    CAC: How many federal appellate oral arguments have you presented?

    Hermandorfer: Federal appellate oral arguments? That would be four.

    CAC: And how many Supreme Court oral arguments have you presented?

    Hermandorfer: None. Though I’ve second-chaired and been counsel of record in Supreme Court matters.

    CAC: I’ll just point out that the jurist you’ve been nominated to replace, Judge Jane Stranch, had 31 years of legal experience under her belt when nominated to this position in the Sixth Circuit, and the ABA, although disregarded by some, has long had a standard that without more than adozen years of federal service, they would deem someone unqualified for positions such as what you’ve been nominated for. Let me move to a different issue, the Federal Rule of Civil Procedure Number 65 sets out the rules of the road for issuing TROs and PIs, including whether a party moving must post a security bond. What factors should an appellate judge consider when ruling on a challenge to a security bond set or not set by a district court under FRCP 65c before issuing a TRO or a PI?

    Hermandorfer: So, this comes up sometimes when the state is a litigant, and oftentimes parties can move to waive the security bond, and what a court is looking to is the gravity of harm to the potential appellant, should the case, the disposition in the District Court, be allowed to moveforward. So, it’s similar to kind of equitable considerations of harm and the gravity of that harm, and whether it would be reparable or, you know, compensable on the other end.

    CAC: Thank you. And in what sorts of cases is it typical to set or require a security bond?

    Hermandorfer: So, I think cases in which there’s going to be financial exposure, for example, on behalf of an appellant, could be such a case where a bond might be…

    CAC: Post contract case, or a case involving infringement of a patent or something like that. Does your analysis change if the matter is a constitutional case brought by a private plaintiff against allegedly unconstitutional actions of the federal government?

    Hermandorfer: So, it’s, I would have to take each constitutional violation and ruling on its own terms, and wouldn’t want to prejudge but the equitable factors, of course, would be the ones that I would apply in such a situation.

    CAC: How would you set a bond for something as foundational as a violation of the Constitution?

    Hermandorfer: I’m not sure I could answer that in the abstract, senator.

    CAC: And I’m not sure district court judges could answer that either. What tools does the Sixth Circuit, or any circuit, have to enforce its judgments? If you were confirmed and a party disobeys an order of the Sixth Circuit, perhaps even one you wrote, what would you do?

    Hermandorfer: Well, I know that there are mechanisms by which, of course, judgments are entered and executed and enforced through federal district courts.

    CAC: And what are those mechanisms?

    Hermandorfer: Well, the federal district court sometimes can issue contempt rulings, for example, that are appealable. And you know, if you’re talking about warrants or orders of those sort, I know the U.S. Marshals’ office has some sort of involvement in that, but I confess this hasn’t been part of something that I’ve litigated.

    CAC: And when would you feel you’d met the standard to call in the marshals to execute your judgment?

    Hermandorfer: I think it’s very difficult again, to answer that question in the abstract, and I could just tell you, as a party, I’ve followed the appellate practice process whenever I felt as though a judgment had gone the wrong way against me, and I’ve secured appellate relief in those situations.

    CAC: Last question, what would you do if the U.S. Marshals were to disobey and refuse to execute the judgment of the circuit court, if they were instructed by the DOJ to stand down and to refuse to implement an order of the court?

    Hermandorfer: That would, probably, as junior appellate judge on my court, be something that I would look to my colleagues and whatever governing rules and precedents would govern that situation, but again, on the abstract as a hypothetical matter.

    CAC: Ms. Hermandorfer, I hope this is an abstract and hypothetical matter, but it’s one that occupies quite a few of us and quite a bit of our discussion on this committee, as we come up against the question of whether or not we have a president willing to disobey orders of federal courts. Thank you for your testimony. Thank you.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo, Grassley and Republican Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Bolster Violent Crime Laws

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo
    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) joined Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and nine Republican colleagues in introducing legislation to strengthen violent crime statutes and help prevent future crime.  The Combating Violent and Dangerous Crime Act would clarify and strengthen penalties for violent offenses like carjacking, robbery and kidnapping. 
    “Our legal system has a duty to punish the guilty and protect the innocent, and conflicting legal standards hamper the ability of federal authorities to do so,” Crapo said.  “These necessary reforms clarify and strengthen federal drug and violent crime laws to ensure justice is applied fairly to all.”
    “Under the Biden-Harris Administration, our nation saw a massive spike in violent crime.  As the Trump Administration works to clean up the previous Administration’s mess, Congress has a duty to resolve any legal ambiguities that may weaken our ability to hold criminals fully accountable,” Grassley said.  “Our bill includes several modest, but meaningful, reforms to tamp down on future crime and ensure justice is served.”
    The Combating Violent and Dangerous Crime Act would address ambiguity and conflicting applications of existing law by clarifying congressional intent.  Among other provisions, the bill would: 
    Resolve conflicting circuit court decisions that have resulted in a higher burden to charge violent offenses;
    Clarify that an attempt or conspiracy to commit an offense involving physical force meets the legal definition of a violent crime; 
    Increase the statutory maximum penalty for carjacking and remove a duplicative intent requirement needed to charge a carjacking offense;
    Clarify that attempted bank robbery and conspiracy to commit bank robbery are punishable under the current bank robbery statute; 
    Outlaw the marketing of candy-flavored drugs to minors; and 
    Establish a new category of violent kidnapping offenses, allowing for greater penalties for violent kidnapping.
    Crapo and Grassley are joined by Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho), John Boozman (R-Arkansas), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana), James Lankford (R-Oklahoma), Mitch McConnell (R-Kentucky), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Shelley Moore Capito (R-West Virginia) and Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina).
    Read the full bill text here. Read a section-by-section here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bill to Codify Key DOGE Initiative, Effectively Eliminate Billions in Improper Payments

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Shortly after President Donald Trump’s inauguration, he established the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to maximize efficiency and productivity within the federal government. U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), a member of the Senate DOGE Caucus, joined caucus chairs U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) and U.S. Representative Aaron Bean (R-FL-04) in introducing the DOGE in Spending Act to codify one of DOGE’s practices to identify and prevent fraudulent or improper payments.

    Introduction of the DOGE in Spending Act follows a recent Government Accountability Office report revealing 16 federal agencies reported an estimated $162 billion in improper payments across 68 programs in Fiscal Year 2024. The bill modernizes the U.S. Department of Treasury’s payment oversight system by requiring each federal disbursement include the payment’s purpose, funding source, and activity type all of which must be certified annually and publicly reported on USAspending.gov.

    It also empowers the Do Not Pay system to prevent improper payments by granting the U.S. Department of Treasury real-time access to verification data across agencies.

    “From the moment he took office, President Trump laid out a clear agenda: eliminate waste, reduce unnecessary spending, and restore fiscal sanity to Washington,” said Cramer. “The Department of Government Efficiency has delivered—cutting through layers of bureaucracy. This agency has taken a scalpel to the federal government, slashing misspending, and eliminating fraudulent and improper payments. By codifying DOGE’s best practices, we safeguard the taxpayer dollars of North Dakotans and Americans across the country.”

    “Requiring government to answer basic questions before spending tax dollars will save billions over the next decade,” said Ernst. “Enacting safeguards to spending has been one of the Trump administration’s and DOGE’s greatest triumphs, and I am determined to codify it and make it permanent. At $36 trillion in debt, the cost of inaction is too high, and I will continue to lead the fight in Washington to root out waste, fraud, and abuse.”

    “For too long, improper and fraudulent payments have drained resources and undermined trust in government spending,” said Bean. “The American people deserve responsible stewardship of their tax dollars, and this bill delivers exactly that. By ensuring federal payments are accurate, transparent, and verifiable, we are eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse in the federal government. This legislation takes the first critical step toward codifying DOGE efforts into law—bringing real oversight and integrity to the way taxpayer dollars are managed.”

    Cramer is a member of the Senate DOGE Caucus, a bicameral effort launched to advance DOGE priorities through legislation and oversight. The caucus, led by Ernst and backed by President Trump, is committed to rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse across the federal bureaucracy.

    Click here for bill text. Click here for a section-by-section breakdown.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi says dialogue, cooperation only correct choice for China, U.S. in phone call with Trump

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

    Xi says dialogue, cooperation only correct choice for China, U.S. in phone call with Trump

    BEIJING, June 5 — Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Thursday that dialogue and cooperation are the only correct choice for China and the United States.

    In the phone talks initiated by U.S. President Donald Trump, Xi said that recalibrating the direction of the giant ship of China-U.S. relations requires the two sides to take the helm and set the right course, adding that it is particularly important to steer clear of the various disturbances and disruptions.

    Noting that at the suggestion of the U.S. side, the two countries’ lead officials recently held an economic and trade meeting in Geneva, Xi said it marked an important step forward in resolving the relevant issues through dialogue and consultation, and was welcomed by both societies and the international community.

    The two sides need to make good use of the economic and trade consultation mechanism already in place, and seek win-win results in the spirit of equality and respect for each other’s concerns, he said, adding that the Chinese side is sincere about this, and at the same time has its principles.

    The Chinese, Xi said, always honor and deliver what has been promised, urging both sides to make good on the agreement reached in Geneva. In fact, China has been seriously and earnestly executing the agreement, Xi added.

    The U.S. side should acknowledge the progress already made, and remove the negative measures taken against China, he said.

    The two sides should enhance communication in such fields as foreign affairs, economy and trade, military, and law enforcement to build consensus, clear up misunderstandings, and strengthen cooperation, Xi added.

    Xi emphasized that the United States must handle the Taiwan question with prudence, so that the fringe separatists bent on “Taiwan independence” will not be able to drag China and the United States into the dangerous terrain of confrontation and even conflict.

    Trump said that he has great respect for Xi, and the U.S.-China relationship is very important.

    The United States wants the Chinese economy to do very well, and the United States and China working together can get a lot of great things done, he said.

    Trump said the United States will honor the one-China policy.

    The meeting in Geneva was very successful and produced a good deal, he said, adding that the United States will work with China to execute the deal.

    The United States loves to have Chinese students coming to study in America, Trump said.

    Xi welcomed Trump to visit China again, for which Trump expressed heartfelt appreciation.

    The two presidents agreed that their teams should continue implementing the Geneva agreement and hold another round of meetings as soon as possible.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese vice premier stresses fairness, safety in college entrance exam

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

    Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, visits a test site at a Taiyuan middle school in Taiyuan, north China’s Shanxi Province, June 3, 2025. Ding inspected preparations for the college entrance examination and energy sector reforms in north China’s Shanxi Province from Tuesday to Wednesday, emphasizing the need to uphold fairness and ensure safety in the national examination, also known as Gaokao. [Photo/Xinhua]

    TAIYUAN, June 5 — Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang inspected preparations for the college entrance examination and energy sector reforms in north China’s Shanxi Province from Tuesday to Wednesday, emphasizing the need to uphold fairness and ensure safety in the national examination, also known as Gaokao.

    The examination is crucial for national development and the future of families, said Ding, who is also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, during a visit to the provincial Admissions and Examination Management Center and a test site at a Taiyuan middle school. He urged authorities to safeguard fairness as the “lifeline” in examination and admission reforms, and Gaokao organization.

    Ding stressed the importance of rigorous test paper security, anti-cheating measures, and compassionate support for students.

    At Shanxi College of Applied Science and Technology, Ding called for alignment with industrial upgrades to cultivate talent and stronger employment support for graduates.

    While inspecting a local company under the State Grid, Ding urged the energy-rich province to lead the way in the clean and efficient use of coal, improve policies for new energy integration, and accelerate the development of a new energy system.

    At an air quality monitoring station, Ding called for the optimization of industrial, energy, and transportation structures to fundamentally address pollution issues. He also emphasized the need to accelerate upgrades in key industries to achieve ultra-low emissions, strictly enforce regulations against scattered, non-compliant, and polluting enterprises, and continually improve air quality.

    Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, visits a local company under the State Grid in north China’s Shanxi Province, June 4, 2025. Ding inspected preparations for the college entrance examination and energy sector reforms in north China’s Shanxi Province from Tuesday to Wednesday, emphasizing the need to uphold fairness and ensure safety in the national examination, also known as Gaokao. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese vice premier urges all-out efforts to secure bumper summer harvest

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

    HEFEI, June 5 — Chinese Vice Premier Liu Guozhong has called for all-out efforts to ensure a bumper summer harvest and lay solid groundwork for autumn grain production, with the aim of achieving the country’s annual grain output target.

    Liu, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks during an investigation and research tour of east China’s Anhui Province from Tuesday to Thursday.

    During his tour, Liu inspected the progress of summer harvesting and planting work while learning about local efforts to breed new crop varieties, increase per-unit yields on a large scale, stabilize the supply and pricing of agricultural materials, and develop high-standard farmland.

    Emphasizing the importance of the current period for summer harvesting, planting and field management work, Liu highlighted the urgency of organizing cross-regional agricultural machinery operations. He also stressed the need to ensure steady summer grain purchases, bolster the supply of agricultural materials and improve farming services.

    It is crucial to evaluate the potential risks of various disasters that could affect agricultural production and to develop emergency response plans, Liu said. He also emphasized the need to strengthen the development of high-standard farmland and address deficiencies in drainage facilities.

    Efforts should also be made to enhance weather forecasting and risk warning systems and to ensure the scientific utilization of water conservancy projects, with the aim of laying a solid foundation for the stabilization and increase of grain production, he added.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi says dialogue, cooperation only correct choice for China, US in phone call with Trump

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

    Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Thursday that dialogue and cooperation are the only correct choice for China and the United States.

    In the phone talks initiated by U.S. President Donald Trump, Xi said that recalibrating the direction of the giant ship of China-U.S. relations requires the two sides to take the helm and set the right course, adding that it is particularly important to steer clear of the various disturbances and disruptions.

    Noting that at the suggestion of the U.S. side, the two countries’ lead officials recently held an economic and trade meeting in Geneva, Xi said it marked an important step forward in resolving the relevant issues through dialogue and consultation, and was welcomed by both societies and the international community.

    The two sides need to make good use of the economic and trade consultation mechanism already in place, and seek win-win results in the spirit of equality and respect for each other’s concerns, he said, adding that the Chinese side is sincere about this, and at the same time has its principles.

    The Chinese, Xi said, always honor and deliver what has been promised, urging both sides to make good on the agreement reached in Geneva. In fact, China has been seriously and earnestly executing the agreement, Xi added.

    The U.S. side should acknowledge the progress already made, and remove the negative measures taken against China, he said.

    The two sides should enhance communication in such fields as foreign affairs, economy and trade, military, and law enforcement to build consensus, clear up misunderstandings, and strengthen cooperation, Xi added.

    Xi emphasized that the United States must handle the Taiwan question with prudence, so that the fringe separatists bent on “Taiwan independence” will not be able to drag China and the United States into the dangerous terrain of confrontation and even conflict.

    Trump said that he has great respect for Xi, and the U.S.-China relationship is very important.

    The United States wants the Chinese economy to do very well, and the United States and China working together can get a lot of great things done, he said.

    Trump said the United States will honor the one-China policy.

    The meeting in Geneva was very successful and produced a good deal, he said, adding that the United States will work with China to execute the deal.

    The United States loves to have Chinese students coming to study in America, Trump said.

    Xi welcomed Trump to visit China again, for which Trump expressed heartfelt appreciation.

    The two presidents agreed that their teams should continue implementing the Geneva agreement and hold another round of meeting as soon as possible. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China reports improving water use efficiency in 2024

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

    China reported continued improvement in its water use efficiency in 2024, according to the water resources bulletin released annually by the Ministry of Water Resources.

    Last year, China’s water consumption per 10,000 yuan (1,391.5 U.S. dollars) of GDP declined 4.4 percent year on year. And water consumption per 10,000 yuan of industrial added value dropped 5.3 percent, the bulletin shows.

    Both precipitation and water resources were significantly above multi-year averages. The country’s average annual precipitation was 717.7 millimeters in 2024 — 11.4 percent higher than the multi-year average. Total water resources stood at 3.11 trillion cubic meters, marking a 12.7 percent increase compared with the multi-year average.

    The bulletin also shows that the supply of unconventional water sources continued to rise in 2024, with the structure of water resources being continuously optimized. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Trump, Musk clash over economic policy, spending bill

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

    U.S. President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk traded barbs over the Trump administration’s sweeping tax-cut and spending bill on Thursday, a week after Musk left the administration.

    The tax-cut and spending bill, also known as the “Big and Beautiful Bill,” is part of Trump’s core agenda and includes a series of economic measures such as eliminating tax credits for electric vehicle consumers, increasing investment in border security, and lowering corporate and personal tax rates.

    Musk has been fiercely criticizing the bill in recent days. On Thursday, he called the bill a “mountain of disgusting pork” on social media.

    “In the entire history of civilization, there has never been legislation that (is) both big and beautiful. Everyone knows this,” said Musk on social media.

    “Either you get a big and ugly bill or a slim and beautiful bill. Slim and beautiful is the way,” he said.

    Trump said Musk’s dissatisfaction stemmed from the bill’s proposal to eliminate tax credits for electric vehicle consumers, which affected Musk’s interests as CEO of electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla.

    “Look, Elon and I had a great relationship. I don’t know if we will anymore,” Trump said in the Oval Office.

    “I’m very disappointed in Elon. I’ve helped Elon a lot,” he added.

    “Without me, Trump would have lost the election, Dems would control the House and the Republicans would be 51-49 in the Senate,” said Musk at one point on Thursday afternoon.

    As for Trump’s post saying Musk “wearing thin” and going “crazy” and he asked Musk to leave, Musk referred the post as “Such an obvious lie. So sad.”

    Musk, however, said he opposed the bill because it would increase the federal deficit.

    Following Trump’s criticism of Musk, Tesla’s stock price fell more than 15 percent on Thursday afternoon. As of this year, Tesla’s share price has fallen over 30 percent.

    Musk was once a staunch ally of Trump, spending nearly 300 million U.S. dollars to support Trump’s campaign in 2024. After Trump won the presidential election, Musk joined the newly established Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), responsible for overseeing bureaucratic corruption and reducing the national debt.

    DOGE’s work led to thousands of federal government layoffs and cuts of billions of dollars in foreign aid and other programs, sparking multiple protests in the United States and around the world. On Wednesday last week, Musk announced his departure.

    Musk also initiated a survey on Twitter regarding “is it time to create a new political party in America that actually represents the 80 percent in the middle,” which drew more than 510,000 votes in about one hour. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Australia down Japan to move to the verge of qualification

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

    Australia almost guaranteed qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup by beating Japan on Thursday night.

    Veteran defender Aziz Behich scored the only goal in the 90th minute to steer the Socceroos to a 1-0 victory over Japan at Perth Stadium in Western Australia.

    The result means that Australia has a six-point and +10 goal difference advantage over Saudi Arabia in the race for second place in Group C in the third round of Asian qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.

    In order to secure second place and qualification for a sixth consecutive World Cup, the Socceroos need only to avoid a heavy defeat against Saudi Arabia in Jeddah on Tuesday, or for Saudi Arabia to fail to beat Bahrain later on Thursday.

    Behich’s goal, his third for Australia and his first since 2012, came against the run of play after Japan had dominated possession throughout the match.

    The chance was created by midfielder Riley McGree, who made a run inside Japan’s defensive box before sending his cross between five teammates.

    Behich, making his 80th appearance for the national team, was the quickest to react and fired a shot from his weaker right foot into the far-right corner, causing the capacity crowd of 57,226 to erupt.

    It marked the Socceroos’ first win against Japan since 2009 and ended Japan’s 21-game unbeaten run.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chelsea sign Ipswich striker Delap in £30m deal

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

    Chelsea has signed striker Liam Delap from Ipswich Town after triggering his release clause of 30 million pounds (about 40 million U.S. dollars).

    Chelsea fended off competition from Manchester United and Newcastle United to secure the former Manchester City youngster, who impressed in his debut Premier League campaign by scoring 12 goals in 37 appearances, despite Ipswich being relegated to the Championship.

    According to English media, Chelsea will pay two-thirds of the fee up front, with the remainder in installments. Ipswich will also receive a percentage of any future sale.

    “I understand the stature of this club and can see the trajectory it is on with these players and the head coach (Enzo Maresca),” Delap told the Chelsea website.

    The England Under-21 international said Chelsea would be “an incredible place for me to develop,” and expressed his hope to “achieve amazing things here and help the club win more trophies.”

    “When I spoke to the club, everyone wanted to get back to the very top, and they have the quality and the players to do that,” he said of the newly crowned Conference League winners.

    “The hunger and desire to keep adding trophies, to take the club back to where it belongs, that is the main objective,” added Delap, who can operate as a central striker or second forward.

    The timing of the transfer means he is likely to be included in Chelsea’s squad for the upcoming Club World Cup in the United States, which the south London club begins on June 16.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Argentina may rest Messi for Chile clash

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

    Argentina captain Lionel Messi could start on the bench in his team’s FIFA World Cup qualifier against Chile, Albiceleste head coach Lionel Scaloni said on Wednesday.

    Thursday’s clash in Santiago will have little consequence for Scaloni’s men, who have already secured a spot in football’s showpiece tournament next year.

    Lionel Messi (center) of Argentina vies with Jackson Irvine of Australia during their Round of 16 match at the 2022 FIFA World Cup at Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium in Al Rayyan, Qatar, Dec 3, 2022. (LI GA / XINHUA)

    Chile, meanwhile, is last in the 10-team South American group and must win to have an outside chance of qualifying.

    “We haven’t decided yet whether he’ll play from the start or not,” Scaloni said of 37 year-old Messi, who has been in impressive form for his club Inter Miami.

    “It would be good to know how he’s feeling physically. It’s clear that today we’re in a position to try other things. In principle, he’s available to play, and we’ll decide later.”

    Scaloni will already be without several key players for the duel at Estadio Nacional, including injured Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister and suspended duo Enzo Fernandez and Nico Gonzalez.

    Also missing will be Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez, who will be rested after the Italian club’s 5-0 loss to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final on Saturday.

    “We’re going to have a lot of players out,” Scaloni said. “If some of the guys we call up are fit and ready to play, they’ll get their chance.”

    “I don’t have the starting eleven confirmed yet, but we will give some playing time to players who haven’t played much and who we believe are ready to play.”

    “Although the result is always important, we don’t think it’s crucial today. We’ll probably try to help these players settle in and give them the chance to get some playing time with the team.”

    Despite sitting top of the South American group with 31 points, eight clear of second-placed Ecuador with four qualifiers remaining, Scaloni said he was focused on obtaining “positive results” against Chile and also Colombia in Buenos Aires on Tuesday.

    “We want to play, it’s good for us to see other players, even those who are playing well. A match is never inopportune,” he said.

    “It’s not that we national teams play so much that we would say we don’t want to play this match. On the contrary. We think it’s a nice match to play, with its difficulties. We are in a good position.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: FIFA announces draw for U17 Women’s World Cup

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

    The draw for the ninth FIFA Under-17 Women’s World Cup was announced Wednesday, with the 2025 edition set to feature 24 teams for the first time.

    The tournament will take place in Rabat, Morocco, from October 17 to November 8.

    It will also mark the first time the global event is held in Africa, with the draw ceremony staged at the Mohammed VI Football Academy in Rabat.

    Host Morocco will compete in Group A alongside Brazil, Costa Rica and Italy. Defending champion Democratic People’s Republic of Korea has been drawn into Group B with Cameroon, Mexico and the Netherlands.

    China is in Group C with Ecuador, Norway and the United States. Group D includes Canada, France, Nigeria and Samoa.

    Group E features Colombia, Cote d’Ivoire, South Korea and Spain, while Japan, New Zealand, Paraguay and Zambia make up Group F.

    The top two teams from each of the six groups, along with the four best third-placed teams, will advance to the round of 16. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Poland edge China, Belgium dominate Thailand in VNL

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

    China suffered its first loss at the Volleyball Nations League (VNL) Beijing leg on Thursday, falling to Poland 3-1 (25-22, 20-25, 25-19, 25-21) in a tightly contested match at the National Indoor Stadium.

    Poland opposite Magdalena Stysiak and outside hitter Martyna Czyrnianska each scored 20 points to fire their team to victory. Captain and middle blocker Agnieszka Korneluk added 17, while fellow middle blocker Aleksandra Gryka had 12.

    Magdalena Stysiak (L) of Poland spikes the ball during the Pool 3 match between China and Poland at the Women’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL) 2025 at the National Indoor Stadium in Beijing, China, June 5, 2025. (Xinhua/Ju Huanzong)

    After dropping a closely fought opening set, China responded with a spirited performance in the second, making lineup adjustments and gaining momentum through effective blocking and fast-paced attacks. Outside hitters Tang Xin and Wu Mengjie played key roles as the team leveled the scores at one set apiece.

    Zhuang Yushan scored a team-high 17 points, Wu earned 13 points, while Tang contributed 12 points overall, including seven in the second set alone.

    “At the beginning, I felt I performed even better than I did in training,” said Tang, 21. “But later on, I got a bit too excited and started to lose focus. Poland adjusted quickly, especially in the third set – their blockers began targeting me more directly, and I had trouble adapting.”

    The third set saw both teams battling point-for-point early on, but Poland pulled ahead midway with solid defense and consistent execution, eventually taking it 25-19. In the fourth, China made a strong start, racing into a 3-0 lead, but Poland quickly turned the tide with a 14-10 advantage and maintained a narrow lead down the stretch. Despite China’s late push to save a match point, Poland closed out the set 25-21 to seal their second straight win in Beijing.

    “We’re very happy with this win. Coming into the match, we knew it would be difficult, even though we only had a few recent matches to study this ‘new’ Chinese team. Still, we could tell that their players have incredible quality. The younger players may lack experience, but they’ve already shown great technique, talent, and character,” said Poland head coach Stefano Lavarini.

    Lavarini noted that the second set slipped away due to a drop in serving quality and missed opportunities in attack, especially against single blocks. However, he added that in the third set, his team regained its rhythm by stabilizing service and playing with more consistency.

    “We tried to get back to the level we had in the first set. In the fourth set, China changed many players, so we made some tactical adjustments as well – especially in how we adapted to their different middle blockers and attackers,” the 46-year-old Italian explained.

    With the result, Poland improve to 2-0 in the current leg, while China drops to 1-1. Both teams will have a rest day on Friday before returning to action over the weekend.

    Earlier in the day, Belgium earned its first win of the Beijing leg with a 3-1 victory over Thailand (25-22, 25-23, 24-26, 25-22).

    Belgium captain Britt Herbots led the scorers with 31 points, while opposite Pauline Martin added 19. Middle blocker Nathalie Lemmens contributed 14 points, including five blocks, as Belgium’s offensive trio proved decisive.

    “It was a very tough and long match from every perspective,” said Herbots. “Thailand has a unique style of play. There were a lot of fast combinations and long rallies – very tiring on defense. But I’m really happy we got the win. Everyone fulfilled their role, and that’s really important for a team.”

    Belgium will next play against France on Friday, while Thailand will face Türkiye. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Transport – Transporting New Zealand welcomes opening of Te Ahu a Turanga: Manawatū-Tararua Highway

    Source: Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand

    National road freight organisation Transporting New Zealand says this Saturday’s official opening of the Te Ahu a Turanga: Manawatū-Tararua Highway is great news for the freight industry, and the region’s communities.
    Chief executive Dom Kalasih says the highway will deliver a safe, reliable and resilient connection between the Manawatū and Tararua districts. [Traffic will be able to use the highway from next week.]
    The highway replaces the Manawatū Gorge route, closed in 2017 due to slips.
    The new 11.5km highway is a major milestone for the freight sector and regional communities. It will take about 13 minutes to drive by car, or around 18 minutes for freight vehicles, to move between the districts.
    Kalasih says it will be a relief for people who have had to use the challenging Saddle Road detour for nearly 8 years.
    “This new highway will make a real difference to the flow of freight and to the lives of drivers.”
    “We also think it is a win that this is a non-tolled road,’ he says.
    Transporting New Zealand strongly opposed a proposed toll, noting the Saddle Road was never fit for purpose and the region deserved a safe, free alternative.
    “This is a replacement road, not a luxury upgrade,” Kalasih says. “Our members were clear – tolling this essential link would be unfair and would raise the cost of freight, hitting consumers across the board.”
    Kalasih says all the engineering that’s gone into the build is impressive.
    The project involved:
    • 6.5 million cubic metres of earthworks
    • 30,000 cubic metres of concrete
    • 3.5 million mahi hours
    • 2,500 workers
    • Nearly 2 million native plants planted for environmental
    restoration.
    The highway holds deep cultural importance, following a historic Māori travel route between the coasts and is named after Te Ahu a Turanga – the former resting place of Turanga-i-Mua, the son of the Aotea waka captain Turi who was killed in a battle there.
    One of the standout physical features is the Parahaki Bridge near Ashhurst – at 300 metres long and 30 metres wide, it spans the fast-flowing Manawatū River on a fault line and in one of the windiest areas of the North Island.
    “It’s taken years of commitment, coordination and skill to complete such a complex build in an ecologically sensitive and geologically challenging location,” says Kalasih.
    “Well done to all who played a part in making this happen.”
    In the linked video, project director Tony Adams, the project director for the Te Ahu a Turanga – Manawatū Tararua Highway, talks about the build.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Administrator Loeffler Applauds House Passage of “Save SBA from Sanctuary Cities Act”

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    WASHINGTON — Today, Kelly Loeffler, Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) applauded the U.S. House of Representatives’ bipartisan passage of H.R. 2931, the Save SBA from Sanctuary Cities Act of 2025, which will support the agency’s decision to relocate SBA field offices out of sanctuary jurisdictions that refuse to comply with federal immigration law.

    “By harboring criminal illegal aliens, sanctuary cities jeopardize both the lives of American citizens and the livelihoods of our small businesses — which is exactly why the SBA is moving our field offices out of these lawless jurisdictions and into safer, more accessible communities that comply with federal law,” said Administrator Loeffler. “This Administration is committed to ending the illegal invasion of our nation – and I am grateful for the bipartisan group of House lawmakers who voted in support of that agenda by passing the Save SBA from Sanctuary Cities Act of 2025.”

    In March, the SBA announced it would relocate six of its regional offices out of sanctuary cities, including Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Denver, New York City, and Seattle. This decision was undertaken not only in support of President Donald J. Trump’s Executive Order 14218 ending the taxpayer subsidization of open borders, but also as part of SBA’s commitment to relocating field offices to safer, less costly, and more accessible communities.

    Under the leadership of Administrator Loeffler, the SBA has taken numerous steps to put American citizens first. Earlier this year, the agency announced it would require SBA loan applications to include a citizenship verification provision to ensure only legal, eligible applicants have access to taxpayer-funded SBA loan programs.

    # # #

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration
    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of entrepreneurship. As the leading voice for small businesses within the federal government, the SBA empowers job creators with the resources and support they need to start, grow, and expand their businesses or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Salvadorean National Charged with Illegal Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition after Standoff with SWAT at Fresno Hotel

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    FRESNO, Calif. — On June 5, 2025, a federal grand jury returned an indictment against Helan Noel Lopez-Sanchez, 32, a citizen of El Salvador, charging him with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, the U.S. Attorney’s Office announced.

    According to court documents, on Jan. 16, 2025, law enforcement officers received information that Lopez-Sanchez, a felon who had escaped from police custody, was located at a Motel 6 in Fresno after he logged into his Snapchat account. The Fresno Sheriff’s Office’s SWAT team was activated to serve an arrest warrant at the Motel 6.

    According to court documents, SWAT operators sent a drone into the motel room, where they observed Lopez-Sanchez with a rifle pointing the rifle at the door. Law enforcement officers ultimately took Lopez-Sanchez into custody and located ammunition as well as a short-barreled, privately manufactured rifle.

    Lopez-Sanchez is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition due to felony convictions including bringing alcohol/drugs into a jail and grand theft.

    This case is the product of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Veneman-Hughes is prosecuting the case.

    If convicted, Lopez-Sanchez faces a maximum statutory penalty of 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Energy Sector – Strengthening UK energy security with new gas sales agreement – Equinor

    Source: Equinor

    05 JUNE 2025 – Equinor and Centrica sign long-term gas sales agreement of 55 TWh of natural gas per year (around 5 billion cubic meters – bcm) for a period of 10 years starting 1 October 2025 at terms reflecting market prices. The total contract value would be around £20 billion assuming current prices.

    “I am very pleased to strengthen the energy partnership with the UK and our longstanding partner and customer Centrica. This agreement will continue to support the UK’s energy security with reliable gas supplies from the Norwegian continental shelf. The flexibility that natural gas offers will play a key role in enabling further development of renewable power and decarbonisation in the UK”, says Equinor’s president and CEO Anders Opedal.

    For nearly 50 years, Equinor and partners have developed the Norwegian Continental Shelf to be the largest and most reliable provider of energy to Europe. Britain currently imports nearly 2/3 of its gas requirements from Norway, with Equinor being the major supplier. The annual volumes under this agreement will cover nearly 10% [1] of total annual UK gas demand which makes the agreement among the largest in Equinor bilateral portfolio.

    “The UK and the North Sea is a core area in our long-term ambitions to remain a supplier of reliable energy and to help decarbonise societies and industries. The new gas sales agreement with Centrica will be a key element in this. Energy security and decarbonisation must go hand in hand, and I am proud that Equinor is actively delivering both”, says Equinor’s UK Country Manager Alex Grant.

    Beyond investments in the UK’s oil and gas production, Equinor already operates three offshore wind farms at Sheringham Shoal, Dudgeon and Hywind Scotland, the world’s first floating offshore wind farm. Dogger Bank is under development and will be the world’s largest offshore windfarm once completed. Together with partners Equinor is also developing the UK’s first CO2 transport and storage project and a gas power plant with CO2 capture.

    Chris O’Shea, Group Chief Executive of Centrica, commented: “Equinor is a valued partner, and this landmark agreement underscores the vital role that natural gas plays as a transition fuel as we navigate towards a low carbon energy future. The enduring partnership between Centrica and Equinor exemplifies the strong and strategic relationship between the UK and Norway and I’m immensely proud that we’ve agreed this deal.

    “Over the last few years, we’ve seen first-hand how important energy security is. Today’s deal not only ensures the UK’s energy security has improved but also paves the way for a burgeoning hydrogen market. The deal represents a significant investment in the UK’s future, showing that Centrica will make bold investments that drive forward the energy transition while delivering value for our shareholders. We will continue to focus on further improving energy security by working with the UK Government to ensure the right levels of gas storage are in place to complement this landmark gas importation agreement.”

    [1] Total UK demand in 2024 at 55.8 bcm

    About Centrica

    Centrica is an international energy and services company, founded on a 200-year heritage of serving customers in homes and businesses. The company supply energy and services to over 10 million residential and business customers, mainly in the UK and Ireland, through brands such as British Gas, Bord Gáis Energy and Centrica Business Solutions. Centrica has a role at every step of the energy transition. When it comes to energy, Centrica make it, store it, move it, sell it and mend it. The company’s strategy is driven by the purpose of energising a greener, fairer future.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy, Pfluger Introduce Bill to Expand Health Care Innovation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) and U.S. Representative August Pfluger (R-TX-11) introduced the Small Biotech Innovation Act to exempt research and development-intensive small biotech manufacturers from the Medicare drug price negotiation program.
    “When the federal government stands in the way of developing better care, there’s a problem. The cures developed through small biotech innovation change the future for many patients. Instead of limiting it, we should encourage it,”said Dr. Cassidy.
    “The Inflation Reduction Act has proven to fall short in several areas, including its small biotech exemption that disincentivizes companies from investing in R&D and hinders the development of innovative therapies. By tying eligibility to R&D spending, we can better incentivize companies to develop new treatments that will benefit patients nationwide,”said Representative Pfluger. “The bicameral Small Biotech Innovation Act is a forward-thinking approach that will strengthen America’s leadership in life-saving science by modernizing the small biotech exemption to reward real innovation and research investment, and ultimately protect these innovative small biotech companies.”
    The Small Biotech Innovation Act would counter the negative impact that the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) will have on innovation and drug development by providing any small biotech that spends a certain amount of money on research and development with the ability to delay one of their drugs for IRA negotiation for a year. The bill also prohibits any company that is owned by a foreign adversary from being eligible for the delay.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada officials to hold technical briefing on An Act to enact the Free Trade and Labour Mobility in Canada Act and the Building Canada Act

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Ottawa, Ontario – June 5, 2025 – Government of Canada officials will hold an embargoed background media technical briefing on the introduction of legislation to build One Canadian Economy.

    Date: Friday, June 6, 2025
    Time: 10:15 EDT
    Location: National Press Theatre
    Room 325 Wellington Building
    180 Wellington, Ottawa, Ontario

    The media technical briefing will be for background information only and not for attribution and will be under embargo until the start of the Prime Minister’s press conference. Journalists will have the opportunity to ask questions.

    Notes for media:

    • Participation is in-person or via Zoom and is for accredited members of the Press Gallery only. Media who are not members of the Press Gallery may contact pressres2@parl.gc.ca to request temporary access.
    • To receive briefing materials, please register with Privy Council Office Media Relations (media@pco-bcp.gc.ca). By registering to receive materials, participants agree to keep materials under embargo until the start of the Prime Minister’s press conference.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Cuellar Applauds Court Decision Halting Job Corps Shutdown

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28) released the following statement after a federal judge temporarily blocked the U.S. Department of Labor from moving forward with its plan to suspend operations at contractor-operated Job Corps Centers, including the one located in Laredo:

    “The federal court’s decision is the right one. The Department of Labor’s plan to shut down contractor-operated Job Corps Centers – including Laredo’s – will cause irreparable harm to students, staff, and South Texas communities. Sending young people home in the middle of their training is just plain wrong.

    “Of the nearly 200 students currently participating at the Laredo Job Corps Center, 154 live on campus. For many of them, this is their only stable housing. We cannot force kids out of their student housing at the start of the summer. It’s wrong and it should never have been considered in the first place.

    “Congress created Job Corps, and Congress funded it with nearly $1.8 billion in FY2024 and continued funding through FY2025. The Department does not have the authority to dismantle this life-changing program without Congressional input.

    “I proudly joined a bipartisan letter urging the Department of Labor to reverse course and protect these centers. Job Corps provides critical career training for over 20,000 young Americans, including hundreds in Laredo, many of whom are gaining skills in high-demand fields like welding, electrical, culinary arts, protective services, certified nursing assistance, facilities maintenance, accounting, and much more. For many, this program is the difference between hardship and opportunity.

    “I will continue fighting to ensure Laredo’s Job Corps Center remains open and fully funded. We must strengthen programs that give our youth a shot at success and help meet our nation’s growing workforce needs.”

    The Laredo Job Corps Center has the capacity to serve 220 students and employs nearly 200 staff. It offers pathways to in-demand careers, high school equivalency programs, English language instruction, and internship opportunities. The Department’s original decision threatened not only the futures of those students but also the economic stability of hundreds of families in South Texas.

    ###

    PARA PUBLICACIÓN INMEDIATA
     Jueves, 5 de Junio de 2025 

    El Congresista Cuellar Aplaude la Decisión Judicial que Detiene el Cierre de Job Corps

    Washington, D.C. – Hoy, el Congresista de los Estados Unidos Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28) publicó la siguiente declaración después de que un juez federal bloqueó temporalmente al Departamento de Trabajo de los Estados Unidos de seguir adelante con su plan de suspender las operaciones en los Centros Job Corps operados por contratistas, incluyendo el que se encuentra en Laredo:

    “La decisión del tribunal federal es la correcta. El plan del Departamento de Trabajo de cerrar los centros Job Corps operados por contratistas -incluido el de Laredo- causará un daño irreparable a los estudiantes, al personal y a las comunidades del sur de Texas. Enviar a los jóvenes a casa en medio de su entrenamiento es simplemente incorrecto.

    “De los casi 200 estudiantes que participan actualmente en el Centro Job Corps de Laredo, 154 viven en el campus. Para muchos de ellos, ésta es su única vivienda estable. No podemos obligar a los jóvenes a abandonar su vivienda estudiantil al principio del verano. Es un error y nunca debería haberse considerado en primer lugar.

    “El Congreso creó Job Corps, y el Congreso lo financió con casi 1.800 miles de millones de dólares en el año fiscal 2024 y continuó financiándolo hasta el año fiscal 2025. El Departamento no tiene autoridad para desmantelar este programa que cambia vidas sin la participación del Congreso.

    “Con orgullo me uní a una carta bipartidista instando al Departamento de Trabajo a revertir el curso y proteger estos centros. Job Corps proporciona formación profesional crítica a más de 20.000 jóvenes estadounidenses, incluidos cientos en Laredo, muchos de los cuales están obteniendo habilidades en campos de alta demanda como soldadura, electricidad, artes culinarias, servicios de protección, asistencia de enfermería certificada, mantenimiento de instalaciones, contabilidad y mucho más. Para muchos, este programa es la diferencia entre la penuria y la oportunidad.

    “Seguiré luchando para asegurar que el Centro Job Corps de Laredo siga abierto y totalmente financiado. Debemos fortalecer los programas que dan a nuestros jóvenes una oportunidad de éxito y ayudan a satisfacer las crecientes necesidades de mano de obra de nuestra nación.”

    El Centro Job Corps de Laredo tiene capacidad para atender a 220 estudiantes y emplea a casi 200 trabajadores. Ofrece vías para acceder a profesiones demandadas, programas de equivalencia de enseñanza secundaria, cursos de inglés y oportunidades de prácticas. La decisión original del Departamento amenazaba no sólo el futuro de esos estudiantes, sino también la estabilidad económica de cientos de familias del sur de Texas.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New food safety booklet features science-backed tips to avoid food poisoning

    Source: NZ Ministry for Primary Industries

    Whether you’re making family dinner, heating up leftovers, packing lunch for the kids, or having friends over for a barbecue, New Zealand Food Safety has great science-backed tips to keep everyone safe.

    “Every year, thousands of New Zealanders get food poisoning. Many of these foodborne illnesses are due to poor food preparation, cooking, or storage at home,” says New Zealand Food Safety deputy director-general Vincent Arbuckle.

    “There’s a wide range of symptoms, ranging from the inconvenient to the life-threatening for people vulnerable to illness.

    “New Zealand Food Safety already has a wealth of science-based information on its Food safety at home webpages to help you prevent getting foodborne illnesses. This year, to coincide with World Food Safety Day tomorrow, we have distilled all this expertise into a new booklet of simple tips for avoiding foodborne illness in the home.”

    From the store to your table, the ‘Food safety at home’ booklet is packed with science-based food-safety advice. It contains:

    • The latest evidence-based recommendations for preparing, cooking, storing, and transporting food safely. Did you know:  Handwashing is one of the best ways to prevent foodborne illness. Washing them before preparing or eating food helps prevent germs spreading to your food.
    • Updated advice on handling and cooking raw meat and meat products; barbecuing and eating outdoors; keeping at-risk people safe; and how long you can keep leftovers. Did you know: You can keep leftovers for up to 4 days in the fridge if you are going to eat them hot. But leftovers of cooked meals you won’t be reheating – like pasta salad – should only be kept for 2 days.
    • Dedicated sections on use-by and best-before dates and advice for shellfish gatherers. Did you know: If a food is past its use-by date, throw it away as it’s not safe to eat. But if it’s past its best-before and it smells and looks okay, it probably is. Check it, sniff it, taste it – don’t waste it.

    World Food Safety Day – jointly led by the World Health Organization and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations – highlights the importance of food safety for the health, prosperity and wellbeing of people around the world.  The theme for 2025 is “Science in action”.

    “Our advice is based on up-to-date science, it’s now up to you to take action,” says Mr Arbuckle.

    You can download your own ‘Food safety at home’ booklet on our website. And, to celebrate World Food Safety Day, try our quiz on Facebook tomorrow to see how food safety savvy you are.

    Food safety at home booklet [PDF, 1.1 MB]

    Food safety at home

    World Food Safety Day

    For further information and general enquiries, call MPI on 0800 00 83 33 or email info@mpi.govt.nz

    For media enquiries, contact the media team on 029 894 0328.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –