NewzIntel.com

Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Ukraine strikes Iskander missile launchers on Russian territory

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    Kyiv, June 5 /Xinhua/ — Ukraine on Thursday destroyed the Iskander operational-tactical missile system installations on the territory of the Russian Federation, the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) reported on Telegram.

    The operation was carried out by units of the Ukrainian Armed Forces in cooperation with the Security Service of Ukraine and other components of the defense forces. They launched a missile strike on the 26th missile brigade of the Russian troops. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Afghanistan releases over 1,500 prisoners, reduces sentences of 950 ahead of Eid al-Adha

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    KABUL, June 5 (Xinhua) — Afghanistan has released a total of 1,559 prisoners and reduced the sentences of 950 more in a show of mercy and goodwill ahead of the Eid al-Adha (Eid al-Adha) holiday, the country’s Supreme Court announced on Wednesday.

    According to the statement, the order was issued by Chief Justice and Chairman of the Supreme Court Sheikh Abdul Hakim Haqqani as part of a nationwide initiative to celebrate Eid al-Adha in the spirit of mercy and forgiveness.

    The prisoners were pardoned and released from prisons in the provinces of Kabul, Nangarhar, Laghman, Panjshir, Parwan, Paktia, Khost and Nimroz, the statement said.

    According to a prison official, there are currently 12,000 to 14,000 Afghan citizens, including women and children, held in prisons across the country.

    Eid al-Adha is the biggest religious festival in Afghanistan. This year it will be celebrated from Saturday to Tuesday. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Kyiv is engaged in terrorism at the state level – D. Peskov

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    Moscow, June 5 (Xinhua) — Ukrainian attacks on Russian civilian trains indicate their terrorist nature. Kyiv is engaged in terrorism at the state level. This was stated at a briefing by the press secretary of the Russian president Dmitry Peskov.

    “The President described the Kiev regime as a terrorist regime. Because it was the regime’s leadership that deliberately gave the order, the command, the order to blow up the passenger train. This is nothing other than terrorism at the state level,” he said.

    According to the press secretary, Russian President Vladimir Putin did indeed tell his American counterpart Donald Trump that Moscow would respond to an attack on Russian airfields.

    “Yes, indeed,” D. Peskov answered the question of whether such a statement really existed. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The Russian FSB reported the explosion of a railway track in the Voronezh region

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    Moscow, June 5 (Xinhua) — A railway track in the Voronezh Region was damaged on Thursday morning as a result of an explosive device detonation just before a train passed, the Public Relations Center (PRC) of the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) said.

    “As a result of the professional actions of the driver and the train crew, who noticed the destruction of the track and applied emergency braking, damage to the train was prevented, and thus human casualties were avoided,” the FSB of the Russian Federation said in a statement.

    According to the FSB Public Relations Center, the circumstances of the incident are being investigated. The scene of the incident is being inspected. Based on the initial indications, there are all grounds for initiating a criminal case under the article “terrorism.” –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s Equipment Upgrade Program Effectively Stimulates Domestic Demand

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 5 (Xinhua) — Jiangsu Tengsheng Textile Technology Group Co., Ltd. has been a hub of activity since the beginning of the year. Its participation in the national equipment renewal campaign has opened a promising path to a bright future for the textile manufacturer.

    “After the upgrade is completed, our equipment will reach the leading standards in the domestic industry,” said Chen Guichun, deputy general manager of the company based in east China’s Jiangsu Province. “We expect this upgrade to improve our efficiency by more than 5 percent and increase our unit output by about 20 percent.”

    The company’s efforts are part of China’s massive trade-in program for equipment upgrades and consumer goods replacement, which was launched in March 2024. The program involves various government departments using ultra-long-term special government bonds to accelerate the implementation of related measures to stimulate investment and consumption.

    The People’s Bank of China (PBOC, the central bank) announced last month that it would increase the refinancing quota for technological innovation and technical transformation from 500 billion yuan (about $69.6 billion) to 800 billion yuan. In addition, the regulator also cut the refinancing rate to 1.5 percent from 1.75 percent.

    This innovation is part of the PBOC’s structural monetary instruments aimed at expanding domestic demand, said Ding Zhijie, director of the PBOC Financial Institute. “This will ensure continued support for the implementation of the equipment renewal program and the replacement of consumer goods with new ones under the trade-in scheme,” he stressed in the latest edition of the all-media discussion program “China Economy Roundtable” organized by Xinhua News Agency.

    “It took only four months from the time we applied to receiving government support, which is a very effective indicator for us,” said Xu Guoqiang, assistant manager of Chilwee Group Co., Ltd., a battery manufacturing subsidiary in east China’s Zhejiang Province.

    According to him, the company invested a total of 60 million yuan in upgrading the equipment, of which more than 8 million yuan was provided by the state.

    Likewise, many other companies in the country’s key industries have begun upgrading their equipment and are reaping the benefits. In April, the added value of China’s major high-tech manufacturing and digital products sectors grew 10 percent year-on-year, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

    In the year since the campaign was launched, it has successfully identified the huge potential of the country’s domestic market. In the first four months of this year, investments in the acquisition of equipment and devices grew by 18.2 percent year-on-year. According to the State Statistical Service, the share of the indicator in the overall investment growth for the period was 64.5 percent.

    Ding Lin, an official with the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), said at a roundtable that China, as the world’s second-largest economy with a population of more than 1.4 billion, has huge potential to expand domestic demand.

    To this end, the country should explore more approaches to increasing household incomes and expanding consumer potential, while continuing to optimize its policies in the area of consumption support, he stressed.

    In addition to accelerating equipment upgrades across the country, Ding Lin said the NDRC will allocate 800 billion yuan in ultra-long-term special government bonds to support the country’s major national strategies and strengthen security capabilities in key areas. Ding Lin called this a “proactive move” to stimulate effective investment.

    “We will accelerate the development of the project and the distribution of funds in order to achieve tangible results as soon as possible,” he concluded. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Cumulative gas production at China’s largest coalbed methane field exceeds 3.6 billion cubic meters

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    TAIYUAN, June 5 (Xinhua) — The cumulative gas output from the Daning-Jixian coalbed methane field in north China’s Shanxi Province exceeded 3.6 billion cubic meters as of the end of May 2025, coalbed methane producer PetroChina Coalbed Methane Co., Ltd. said Thursday.

    As an unconventional natural gas, coal bed methane is considered a clean energy resource of strategic importance. Its use can help reduce risks in mining operations, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and alleviate gas shortages.

    Shanxi Province has rich coal bed methane resources. The region’s reserves within 2,000 meters underground are estimated at 8.31 trillion cubic meters, accounting for about a third of the country’s total.

    In recent years, thanks to technological advances in coalbed methane production, the production capacity of Daning-Jixian Methane Field has been steadily growing.

    In 2024, the coalbed methane production at the Daning-Jixian field reached 1.96 billion cubic meters. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • Transformative urban development initiatives empower India’s middle class

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Over the past decade, several ambitious government initiatives have significantly reshaped urban living in India, bringing improved housing, transport, and connectivity to millions. These programmes have not only enhanced infrastructure but have also strengthened the sense of security and pride among middle-class and low-income families.

    Since its launch in 2015, the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) has emerged as a beacon of hope for many seeking affordable housing. With a central assistance commitment of ₹1.97 lakh crore, of which ₹1.69 lakh crore has been disbursed so far, the scheme has witnessed remarkable progress.

    Between 2014 and May 2025, more than 1.16 crore houses were sanctioned, construction has commenced on over 1.12 crore units, and more than 92.72 lakh homes have been completed or handed over to beneficiaries. Beyond the statistics, these homes represent stability, dignity, and empowerment for families across urban India, marking a significant stride in the nation’s urban welfare agenda.

    Urban transport has also received an unprecedented boost with the rapid expansion of metro rail networks. India’s metro system, now operational in 29 cities, has expanded to 1,013 kilometres by May 2025, a striking increase from just 248 kilometres in 2014. The approval of 34 new metro projects covering 992 kilometres further underscores the Government’s commitment to enhancing urban mobility. Daily ridership has soared from 28 lakh passengers in 2013 to over 1.12 crore today.

    The pace of commissioning metro lines has increased ninefold, with an average of six kilometres of new track becoming operational each month, compared to less than one kilometre monthly before 2014. The annual budget allocation for metro rail projects has also surged more than six times, reflecting the prioritisation of urban transport in the national development agenda.

    The Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik (UDAN) scheme, introduced in 2016, has revolutionised regional air travel by making it affordable and accessible to the common citizen. With 88 airports, including two water aerodromes and thirteen heliports, connected through 625 routes, UDAN has facilitated over 1.49 crore passengers to fly at economical rates. The scheme has played a pivotal role in boosting tourism, enhancing healthcare access, and fostering trade in tier 2 and tier 3 cities. India’s airport network has more than doubled, growing from 74 airports in 2014 to 160 in 2025, supported by ₹4,023.37 crore in Viability Gap Funding to sustain connectivity in underserved regions.

    Ensuring transparency and consumer protection in the housing sector has been a key priority with the enactment of the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act (RERA) in 2016. The legislation mandates every state and union territory to establish regulatory authorities that maintain public portals detailing registered real estate projects. As of March 2025, these authorities have addressed over 1.4 lakh consumer complaints, thereby enhancing accountability and rebuilding trust in the real estate market.

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services, April 2025 and Annual Revision

    Source: US Bureau of Economic Analysis

    The U.S. monthly international trade deficit decreased in April 2025 according to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis and the U.S. Census Bureau. The deficit decreased from $138.3 billion in March (revised) to $61.6 billion in April, as exports increased and imports decreased. The goods deficit decreased $75.2 billion in April to $87.4 billion. The services surplus increased $1.5 billion in April to $25.8 billion. Full Text

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Mining in Motion 2025: Niger Eyes Economic Development Fund

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    ACCRA, Ghana, June 5, 2025/APO Group/ —

    Colonel Ousmane Abarchi, Minister of Mines of Niger, announced plans to establish a national economic development fund during the Mining in Motion 2025 summit – held in Accra. The fund aims to redirect revenues from the mining sector to strengthen other industries while tackling illicit mining.

    “We seek to develop an economic development fund so that revenues from mining bolster other industries. We are also seeking community development, as illicit mining damages the environment. By addressing illegal mining, we are ensuring the purification of water bodies,” Minister Arbachi stated.

    Minister Arbachi emphasized that addressing the widespread challenges of illegal mining across the continent must begin with the inclusion of local communities in decision-making and direct benefits.

    The proposed fund would aim to reinvest mining profits into local companies – supporting sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure and education – to create alternatives to illegal mining and enhance long-term development.

    The initiative aligns with the broader themes of the Mining in Motion summit, which focuses on sustainable resource governance, responsible mining practices and cross-border collaboration.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Report by OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities, June 2025: UK and Canada joint statement to the OSCE

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Report by OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities, June 2025: UK and Canada joint statement to the OSCE

    UK and Canada thank the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities for his active start in the role and urge continued prioritisation of support for Ukraine against Russian aggression.

    Thank you, Mister Chair.  I am delivering this statement on behalf of Canada and the UK. 

    High Commissioner, dear Christophe, welcome back to the Permanent Council.  Since this is your first report in this capacity, allow us officially to congratulate you on your appointment and for hitting the ground running.  You have had a very active start to your tenure, as demonstrated by your comprehensive report today.

    The UK and Canada are strong supporters of your mandate and the work of your office in promoting the rights of persons belonging to national minorities. 

    We commend your extensive engagement with – and visits to – a number of our participating States, including Moldova and Central Asia.  We welcome the transparency around your activities, which you have achieved without undermining the “quiet diplomacy” that is an important characteristic of your mandate.

    The UK and Canada greatly value your Office’s continued attention to the intersectionality of gender and national minorities.  It is in all our interests that we fully support women’s and girls’ full, equal and meaningful participation in all aspects of public life, including in peace and security.  We agree with you, High Commissioner, that greater gender equality in societies contributes to greater comprehensive security for us all.

    We also welcome that you have prioritised support to Ukraine, including an early visit.  We commend the strides that the Ukrainian authorities have made in strengthening the legal and policy frameworks for protecting national minorities and preparing the ground for inclusive education reforms.  This progress provides a promising foundation for Ukraine’s post-conflict recovery.

    High Commissioner, your office plays a crucial role which is as important today as it was when created more than 30 years ago. But like most of the OSCE’s tools, it can only play this role when the political will exists to permit it. 

    The situation in Ukraine is a case in point.  Your predecessor noted prior to the full-scale invasion that Ukraine was “working to maintain the delicate balance between the interests and rights of all groups in society”.  Rather than engage in good faith dialogue, Russia has weaponised the issue of minorities. And the irony is that those Ukrainians who Russia claimed to be protecting, have suffered greatly from its invasion. 

    The UK and Canada support your office’s continued focus on the situation in the areas of Ukraine’s sovereign territory temporarily under Russian control.  We condemn Russia’s systematic attempt to erase Ukrainian identity in these areas, including forced passportisation and the deportation of children.  The deeply concerning situation in Crimea, including widescale repression of Crimean Tatars, has been well documented by numerous independent organisations.

    High Commissioner, dear Christophe, we thank you and your team for your considerable efforts in the period covered by your report.  You can rely on the UK and Canada’s continued support for your institution in the years ahead.  Thank you.

    And thank you, Mister Chair.

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 June 2025

    Invasion of Ukraine

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Recruitment for an Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Co-ordinator

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Recruitment for an Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Co-ordinator

    Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Co-ordinator, working on the UK’s programmes of AMR surveillance in animals.

    We have a vacancy for an Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Co-ordinator.

    Job Title

    Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Co-ordinator

    Grade

    HSO

    Salary & Pension

    £37,480 per annum with Pension Scheme

    Annual Leave entitlement

    Commencing at 25 days

    Role

    This is a fantastic opportunity to join the team to cover a period of maternity leave.

    You will work with another HSO AMR co-ordinator to support the AMR surveillance manager in delivery of the surveillance programmes, including the interpretation and reporting of results. You will also co-ordinate important AMR activities across government and provide scientific input into, and generate outputs from, a diverse range of AMR surveillance initiatives.

    How to apply

    You must make your application via Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Co-ordinator – Civil Service Jobs – GOV.UK where you will find a full job description.

    Closing Date

    2 July 2025

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: RBI imposes monetary penalty on Poornawadi Nagarik Sahakari Bank Maryadit Beed, Maharashtra

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBl) has, by an order dated June 3, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹1 lakh (Rupees One Lakh only) on Poornawadi Nagarik Sahakari Bank Maryadit Beed, Maharashtra (the bank) for non-compliance with certain directions issued by RBI on ‘Management of Advances – UCBs’ and ‘Know Your Customer (KYC)’. This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.

    The statutory inspection of the bank was conducted by the RBI with reference to its financial position as on March 31, 2024. Based on supervisory findings of non-compliance with RBI directions and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the bank advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said directions. After considering the bank’s reply to the notice, additional submissions made by it and oral submissions made during the personal hearing, RBI found, inter alia, that the following charges against the bank were sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty:

    The bank had:

    1. sanctioned certain gold loans in excess of prescribed ceiling of Loan to Value (LTV) ratio; and

    2. failed to upload the KYC records of certain customers onto Central KYC Records Registry (CKYCR) within the prescribed time.

    This action is based on deficiencies in regulatory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the bank with its customers. Further, imposition of this monetary penalty is without prejudice to any other action that may be initiated by RBI against the bank.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2025-2026/485

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: RBI imposes monetary penalty on The Adilabad District Co-operative Central Bank Ltd., Telangana

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has, by an order dated June 4, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹1 lakh (Rupees One Lakh only) on The Adilabad District Co-operative Central Bank Ltd., Telangana (the bank) for contravention of provisions of Section 20 read with Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949 (BR Act). This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the BR Act.

    The statutory inspection of the bank was conducted by National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) with reference to its financial position as on March 31, 2024. Based on supervisory findings of contravention of statutory provisions and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the bank advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said provisions. After considering the bank’s reply to the notice and oral submissions made during the personal hearing, RBI found, inter alia, that the following charge against the bank was sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty:

    The bank had sanctioned loans to its directors.

    This action is based on deficiencies in statutory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the bank with its customers. Further, imposition of this monetary penalty is without prejudice to any other action that may be initiated by RBI against the bank.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2025-2026/486

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Russia continues to frustrate peace efforts while trying to convince the world it is taking them seriously: UK statement to the OSCE

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Russia continues to frustrate peace efforts while trying to convince the world it is taking them seriously: UK statement to the OSCE

    Ambassador Holland calls out Russia’s latest tactics to frustrate efforts to end its war in Ukraine while trying to convince the world it is serious about peace. He confirms that the Kremlin’s delay tactics will only redouble the UK’s resolve to support Ukraine to secure a just and lasting peace

    Thank you, Mister Chair.  The UK welcomes the second round of bilateral negotiations that took place earlier this week in Istanbul.  We thank Türkiye for again hosting the discussions and the United States for creating the momentum that got everybody to this point.  The agreement to a further large-scale prisoner exchange and the return of fallen soldiers is a further step towards building confidence.

    We regret, however, that Russia limited the progress that could be made at Monday’s talks by refusing to send, in advance, the memorandum setting out its position on ending this illegal war.  The memorandum, when it arrived, revealed no movement away from the maximalist terms that we have all heard before.  We also regret that the Kremlin continues to reject a complete, unconditional and immediate 30-day ceasefire.

    This is consistent with the tactics that Russia has employed for weeks over peace talks: to draw out the process and refuse to engage in a meaningful way; all while trying to convince the world that it is serious about peace.  We see it in this Council and at the United Nations where Russia makes nonsensical claims.  Among these is the allegation that those who materially support Ukraine’s sovereign right to defend itself from unprovoked aggression, are undermining peace efforts.

    Nobody in this room is fooled; we know who started this war, and we know who is resisting efforts to end it.  The UK is committed to securing a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.  Delay tactics from the Kremlin will only redouble our resolve to help Ukraine defend itself and to use our sanctions to restrict Russia’s war machine.

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 June 2025

    Invasion of Ukraine

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Arrangements confirmed for City Cemetery Blessing of the Graves

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Arrangements confirmed for City Cemetery Blessing of the Graves

    5 June 2025

    Members of the public wishing to attend the Annual Blessing of the Graves at the City Cemetery scheduled to take place at 3pm on Sunday June 22nd, are asked to check traffic and parking arrangements to help plan their visit.

    130 car parking spaces will be made available for Blue Badge holders within the Cemetery.  The places will be allocated on a first come first served basis to current Blue Badge holders and can be booked at www.derrystrabane.com/cemeterysunday

    When booking online for the City Cemetery spaces users are advised that they must provide a Name, Mobile number, Vehicle Registration Number, Blue Badge Number and email address – any submissions without this information will be considered invalid. The people using these spaces can access them via the Lonemoor Road entrance and they are to arrive before 2pm as the gates will close promptly at this time.

    The City Cemetery will be closed to the general public on Sunday, June 22nd, except for burials and for those who have a parking space booked. Those who secure a space must be in place by 2pm, as there will be no access for vehicles after this time. Parking spaces will be allocated on a first come first served basis and it will not be possible to reserve a space in a particular area. Please keep in mind that you may still have to walk some distance to reach family graves and make provision for this. Once on site, vehicles will remain there until the crowds have dispersed which, it’s estimated, will be approximately 30 minutes after the service finishes. Access to the cemetery for vehicles will be from the lower gate of the Cemetery at the Lone Moor Road.

    Other car parking is being made available and again are for blue badge holders at St Mary’s Church, Creggan, St Cecilia’s College and Celtic Park. There is no prior booking to these sites, access will only be given to vehicles that display a current Disability Blue Badge Permit on arrival and these too will be filled on a first come basis first served basis. 

    Please note that for those unable to attend or anyone with accessibility issues, the Service will also be live streamed and can be viewed from home.

    In a joint statement from the Council, as owners of the Cemetery, and the Church, as event organisers, people were asked to follow the guidance and plan their visit in advance. “The Blessing of the Graves is always well attended with thousands of people expected at the City Cemetery on June 22nd. In order to ensure the smooth running of the event and in the interests of health and safety a number of measures will be put in place. These are necessary to reduce the volume of traffic and keep pedestrian safe. We would appeal to everyone to follow this guidance and cooperate with the stewards there to manage the event on the day.

    “Visitors parking outside the cemetery are asked to please park in appropriate areas and be considerate of people living in the area. Be mindful of residents living in the area and do not block roadways, footpaths, or gateways when parking. This is an important time of prayer for families who are remembering loved ones, and we ask that everyone is respectful of other visitors during the service. We appreciate everyone’s cooperation in delivering this event.”

    There will be no vehicle access to the cemetery from 12pm to facilitate preparations for the service. Access will only be given to those who have registered with gates remaining open until 2pm.

    You can view the livestream of the Blessing of the Graves as follows: https://youtube.com/live/9ZS-utqxlfQ?feature=share

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: DRC: Victims still waiting for justice, truth and reparations 25 years on from Kisangani war 

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Twenty-five years since the six-day war in Kisangani in Democratic Republic of Congo in which hundreds of civilians were killed and thousands more injured, victims are still waiting for truth, justice and, for the most part, reparations, Amnesty International said in a new briefing today. 

    The briefing Is anyone moved by Congo’s pain? 25 years without justice for the six-day war in Kisangani, documents how there has not been a single criminal investigation or trial since the bloody conflict between Rwandan and Ugandan forces. During the fighting in the north-eastern city, which started on 5 June 2000, both armies engaged in intense and indiscriminate shelling of heavily populated civilian areas, intentionally killed civilians, raped women and pillaged houses.  

    It is utterly unacceptable that for 25 years, not a single person has been held to account for crimes perpetrated in Kisangani, not one.

    Tigere Chagutah, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa

    With the DRC courts’ failure to pursue justice and the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) lack of jurisdiction over crimes committed in DRC before 2002, those suspected of criminal responsibility for these crimes have never been prosecuted and punished. 

    “It is utterly unacceptable that for 25 years, not a single person has been held to account for crimes perpetrated in Kisangani, not one,” said Tigere Chagutah, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa. “This lack of criminal accountability for past crimes has led to a cycle of violence in the DRC, with similar actors, similar weapons and similar suffering. Justice cannot wait another 25 years. It is the responsibility of Congolese judicial authorities to investigate and, if there is sufficient admissible evidence, prosecute those suspected of criminal responsibility for crimes committed on DRC territory.” 

    In 2022, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ordered Uganda to pay reparations, following a case brought by the DRC against Uganda and Rwanda. The ICJ did not have jurisdiction over Rwanda. In 2024, some victims finally started to receive compensation, but the process by been wrought by complaints of mismanagement and embezzlement. 

    Amnesty International interviewed over 50 people, mostly survivors, as well as civil society organizations and justice sector officials. 

    The “Three-Day, One-Day and Six-Day wars” in Kisangani 

    The six-day war was one of a series of conflicts between the Ugandan and Rwandan armies in Kisangani between August 1999 and June 2000 that left behind a trail of death and destruction. 

    The first war – “the three-day war”, started on 14 June 1999, with the two armies exchanging indiscriminate fire and shelling, which killed more than 30 civilians  and wounded more than 100.  

    After close to a year of relative quiet, fighting started again on 5 May 2000 and lasted only one day. Exactly a month later, the “six-day war”, which was more intense, started. Without differentiating between civilians and combatants, the two armies indiscriminately shelled Kisangani, killing several hundred civilians and injuring thousands. 

    A civil society activist who survived and reported on the three wars in Kisangani recounted:  

    “For six days there were only bombs falling, we did not know if we were going to live. There were a lot of fatalities…” 

    A woman who was seven at the time of the war, recalled: 

    “I was walking with my grandmother when I was struck by a bomb in my leg. I didn’t know how to get to hospitals, it was dangerous, so we were dealing with the injury at home, but the foot was rotting. On the fifth day I went to the hospital, but it was too late, they cut off my leg.  

    For six days there were only bombs falling, we did not know if we were going to live. There were a lot of fatalities.

    Survivor, Kisangani

    “A gentleman who could not go home until the war ended, returned at the end of the six days and found his wife and three children dead, their corpses decomposing. The house had been hit by bombs. “He went mad and died shortly after.”  

    People want truth, justice and reparations 

    Despite the lack of judicial criminal proceedings either in the DRC or internationally, the people’s demands for justice and reparations remain strong decades later. 

    A man, who also survived the wars, said: “My dearest wish was the establishment of courts. This is the wish of the Congolese people. Now we have a sense of frustration in the population. Why were there blockages? It is unclear why crimes that have already been documented have not been tried. Is there nobody emotionally moved by the crimes committed in Congo?” 

    At least 40 people interviewed told Amnesty International that there was no political will to institute criminal proceedings or deliver justice. Lack of judicial independence has also meant that without the support of political leaders, some of whom are former belligerents, judicial officials could not open investigations. 

    The complete lack of prosecutions has led to a loss of trust in the country’s justice system and the government. 

    With regards to reparation programmes, the Special Fund for the Distribution of Compensation to Victims of Uganda’s Illicit Activities in the DRC (FRIVAO), tasked to manage the millions of dollars Uganda has been ordered to pay for reparations by the ICJ, has been criticised for lack of transparency and adequate consultations with victims of the Kisangani wars.  

    Justice cannot wait another 25 years. It is the responsibility of Congolese judicial authorities to investigate and, if there is sufficient admissible evidence, prosecute those suspected of criminal responsibility for crimes committed on DRC territory

    Tigere Chagutah

    One activist said: “People have no decency; there has been bloodshed… and they are embezzling funds that were intended for public interest work and victims! That is not what we fought for.”  

    Tigere Chagutah said: “Amnesty International reminds DRC of its obligations to investigate and, if enough admissible evidence is found, to prosecute in fair trials those suspected of criminal responsibility for the serious crimes committed in the territory of the DRC for over 30 years, including the Kisangani war.”  

    “The government must also offer adequate, effective and prompt reparations to victims following genuine consultations with survivors and civil society.” 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: USA: Veto of UN resolution on lifting Gaza aid restrictions and unconditional release of hostages is inhumane and shameful amid Israel’s ongoing genocide

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Responding to the US government’s decision to veto a draft UN Security Council resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in the occupied Gaza Strip, the release of hostages, and the “immediate and unconditional lifting of all restrictions on the entry of humanitarian aid”, Amnesty International’s Secretary General, Agnès Callamard, said:  

    “This latest shameful US veto – one in a long list – gives Israel the green light to continue its genocide of Palestinians in Gaza. It allows Israel to continue starving Palestinian civilians and creating conditions of life meant to bring about their destruction. 

    “The US has squandered yet another crucial opportunity to demand that Israel ends civilian bloodshed. What possible justification can there be for blocking action by the UN Security Council that could help to end the harrowing starvation and suffering, free hostages and lift Israel’s suffocating aid restrictions? 

    “The lives of more than 2 million Palestinians are at stake: babies and children hospitalized for malnutrition-related symptoms; tens of thousands of children sleeping on empty stomachs; families unable to access flour for weeks; mothers too malnourished to breastfeed their infants; injured civilians deprived of life-saving medical supplies; and starved and emaciated fathers walking for hours under inhumane conditions to collect a parcel of food, not knowing if they’d even return home to their children.  

    The US can and must do its part to put an end to this manmade catastrophe, which it has contributed to.

    Agnès Callamard, Amnesty International’s Secretary General

    “As the occupying power, Israel has a clear obligation under international law to ensure the population in the territory it controls has adequate access to food, medicine and other supplies essential to their survival. It has repeatedly refused to do so. All states, including the United States, have an obligation to prevent genocide, cooperate to bring it to an end and punish perpetrators.

    “Israel’s newly established militarized humanitarian aid scheme, run by the US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, is not the answer as it is at odds with humanitarian principles and international law. The danger, ineffectiveness and utter depravity of this scheme became painfully clear as dozens of Palestinians, many of whom are sole providers for their families, were killed or injured while trying to access food. Nothing short of lifting all restrictions on entry of humanitarian aid will do. 

    “The US can and must do its part to put an end to this manmade catastrophe, which it has contributed to. It must immediately halt arms transfers and military assistance, press Israel to lift all aid restrictions and push for an immediate ceasefire by all parties. The survival of 2.2 million Palestinians in Gaza depends on it.” 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Honduras: Amnesty International urges authorities to guarantee justice for the murder of Juan López

    Source: Amnesty International –

    The preliminary hearing against three men accused of taking part in the murder of environmental defender Juan Antonio López, coordinator of the Municipal Committee for the Defence of Common and Public Goods of Tocoa (CMDBCPT), will be held at the court of San Pedro Sula in Honduras on 3 June. Amnesty International said that this trial may prove crucial in enabling the family of Juan López to obtain truth, justice and reparation for his murder, which was committed on 14 September 2024 in the municipality of Tocoa. The organization calls on the Honduran authorities to ensure that all those suspected of involvement in Juan López’s murder, whether as instigators or perpetrators, are brought to justice in fair trials.

    Ana Piquer, Americas director at Amnesty International, said: “The crime against Juan López is evidence that the situation of environmental defenders in Honduras has not improved. The organization welcomes the progress made by the Public Prosecutor’s Office in its investigations and hopes that all the authorities involved will effectively fulfil their duty to provide the family of Juan López with truth, justice and reparation”.

    The crime against Juan López is evidence that the situation of environmental defenders in Honduras has not improved. The organization welcomes the progress made by the Public Prosecutor’s Office in its investigations and hopes that all the authorities involved will effectively fulfil their duty to provide the family of Juan López with truth, justice and reparation

    Ana Piquer, Americas director at Amnesty International

    On 6 October 2024, the Honduran Public Prosecutor’s Office announced that three people had been arrested as alleged perpetrators of Juan López’s murder. Three days later, a local court formally charged the suspects for the killing of the environmental defender and ordered their arrest. The three men have since been held in pretrial detention.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Amnesty Media Awards 2025: Winners announced

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Winners across the 12 award categories include BBC Radio 4, Channel 4, The Guardian, Financial Times, ITV News and BBC Eye Investigations 

    Owen Jones took home The People’s Choice Award 

    Al-Jazeera’s Gaza bureau chief Wael Al-Dahdouh was presented with an Outstanding Contribution to Human Rights Journalism accolade  

    ‘Journalists around the globe are facing increased attacks and being silenced – it is more important than ever that we champion their work and make a stand for press freedom’ – Sacha Deshmukh 

    Images from the ceremony can be downloaded here  

    Amnesty International UK has announced the winners of its prestigious Amnesty Media Awards 2025 in a ceremony at the BFI Southbank London this evening (4 June), hosted by actor, writer and director Jolyon Rubinstein. 

    The 12 categories commended the most outstanding human rights journalism of the last year, with winners including Channel 4 and BBC Eye Investigations. Financial Times won both the Written Feature and Written News awards, while ITV News took home the Broadcast News trophy.  

    The Guardian won the Written Investigations category for reporting on the violent truth behind Italy’s ‘migrant reduction’, whilst BBC Radio 4 won the Radio & Podcasts award for a programme spotlighting the diary of a woman from Afghanistan.  

    Most categories were judged by a panel of prestigious journalists and media workers, including Ayshah Tull, Lindsey Hilsum, and Alex Crawford, but a new award for 2025 – The People’s Choice Award – saw tens of thousands of people across the UK voting for the journalist who they felt has made the biggest contribution to human rights reporting over the past year. This award was handed to Owen Jones, for his tireless efforts highlighting injustices, especially around the ongoing devastating crisis in Gaza.  

    This year, the Amnesty Media Awards shone a spotlight on the dangers that journalists often face to expose the most pressing human rights issues. 2024 was the deadliest year on record for journalists and media workers – at least 124 journalists and media workers were killed. A staggering 70% of those were a result of Israeli military action in Gaza and Lebanon.  

    A special award for Outstanding Contribution to Human Rights Journalism was presented to Al-Jazeera’s Gaza bureau chief, Wael Al-Dahdouh , who gave a speech during the ceremony about the decades he has spent reporting from the Occupied Palestinian Territory.  

    The ceremony, which also featured a performance by singer Emeli Sandé, was live-streamed and attended by hundreds of journalists, broadcasters, producers and presenters.  

    Sacha Deshmukh, Chief Executive of Amnesty International UK, said: 

    “We’ve seen and commended some truly breathtaking journalism this evening – proof that good human rights reporting is absolutely essential for exposing injustices and holding power to account. Journalism is far more than just reporting on the facts – it can instigate very real, concrete change that impacts peoples’ lives across the planet.  

    “At a time when journalists around the globe are under increased attack and at risk of being silenced, it is more important than ever to champion their work and make a stand for press freedom.   

    “While the footage, words and reports we’ve awarded this evening remind us of the horrors we are living through, they are also proof of the many people committed to highlighting, exposing and ending violence and abuse. That is what the Amnesty Media Awards are all about – recognising, celebrating and inspiring the human rights journalism that makes the world a fairer, more equitable and peaceful place.” 

    FULL LIST OF WINNERS  

    Broadcast Feature 

    Basement Films for Channel 4 

    Kill Zone: Inside Gaza 

    Broadcast Investigation 

    BBC Eye Investigations 

    Settlements Above the Law 

    Broadcast News 

    ITV News  

    The White Flag  

    The Gaby Rado Award for New Journalist 

    Sophie Neiman 

    New Internationalist  

    Nations and Regions supported by the Players of the People’s Postcode Lottery  

    BBC Northern Ireland 

    Spotlight: Katie – Coerced and Killed 

    Photojournalism 

    Kiana Hayeri 

    The Guardian 

    Radio & Podcasts 

    BBC Radio 4 

    Our Whole Life is a Secret 

    Written Feature 

    Financial Times 

    How extremist settlers in the West Bank became the law 

    Written Investigation 

    The Guardian 

    The brutal truth behind Italy’s migrant reduction: beatings and rape by EU-funded forces in Tunisia 

    Written News 

    Financial Times 

    FT investigation finds Ukrainian children on Russian adoption sites 

    People’s Choice  

    Owen Jones 

    Outstanding Contribution to Human Rights Journalism 

    Wael Al-Dahdouh 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Vietnam Space Committee, OSB Group and Thales Partner to Promote Education and Innovation in Space Technologies

    Source: Thales Group

    Headline: Vietnam Space Committee, OSB Group and Thales Partner to Promote Education and Innovation in Space Technologies

    Vietnam has been building a national framework to advance Space activities over the past decade. Its national strategy for space technology development until 2030 aims to drive the sector forward in socio-economic development, technological innovation and environmental monitoring. Thales and Thales Alenia Space align with these ambitions, with the objective of this partnership to raise awareness and promote education on the immense potential of Space sciences and technologies.

    Through the scope of this MoU, VSC Office, OSB, Thales and Thales Alenia Space will work on jointly developing and deploying training programmes in background and advanced topics in space telecommunications, satellite navigation, and space exploration. From joint research and early outreach in initiatives like STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) to youth and academic institutions, Thales, Thales Alenia Space and their partners are working to build local technology expertise and capabilities in the coming generations.

    Thales Alenia Space will bring its global expertise in space systems and technologies, together with Thales that will draw on its 30-year history in Vietnam for the aerospace, defence and cybersecurity and digital sectors. These capabilities complement those from the VSC Office who is the primary advisor for the Vietnamese government in its national space development strategies and policies, and with OSB, a leading local, high-tech telecom satellite network agency,

    “Many governments are looking to satellites and communications technologies as the cornerstone in bringing connectivity, promoting economic development and safeguarding a country’s national security and sovereignty. Vietnam has keen ambitions for its Space sector, including the future VINASAT 3, which will bring state-of-the-art connectivity to millions. I am very optimistic on this partnership, signed in the framework of the Strategic Comprehensive Agreement between France and Vietnam, which builds on the 30-year legacy we have in Vietnam.” said Nicolas Bouverot, Vice-President for Asia at Thales.

    “Thales Alenia Space is proud to develop this partnership with the Vietnam Space Committee Office and OSB Group. This collaboration will leverage on Thales Alenia Space’s longstanding capabilities in satellites systems while supporting the development of local talent to nurture innovative space technologies.” said Olivier Guilbert, Vice-President Export Sales at Thales Alenia Space.

    About Thales

    Thales (Euronext Paris: HO) is a global leader in advanced technologies for the Defence, Aerospace, and Cyber & Digital sectors. Its portfolio of innovative products and services addresses several major challenges: sovereignty, security, sustainability and inclusion.

    The Group invests more than €4 billion per year in Research & Development in key areas, particularly for critical environments, such as Artificial Intelligence, cybersecurity, quantum and cloud technologies. Thales has more than 83,000 employees in 68 countries. In 2024, the Group generated sales of €20.6 billion.

    Press contact

    Thales, Communications, Asia

    Serene Koh – serene.koh@asia.thalesgroup.com

    PLEASE VISIT Thales Group

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Guardians of Peace—and the Planet: UN Peacekeepers on Environmental Frontlines | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    As UN peacekeepers work in some of the world’s toughest environments, the Department of Operational Support is making environmental protection a top priority. From reducing waste to using solar power, the UN is taking action to minimize its environmental footprint and support host communities.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pQDrnjJR3eA

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: 2025 Secretary-General’s Annual Memorial Service

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Since 2011, the Secretary-General has instituted an Annual Memorial Service at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, to pay tribute and honour the memory of all United Nations personnel who tragically lost their lives in its service during the course of the previous year.

    The Secretary-General will host the Annual Memorial Service to honour all United Nations personnel who lost their lives in the service of peace from 01 January to 31 December 2024

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7mihN26vUyg

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: 🎥ICE acting director demands that politicians “stop putting my people in danger.”

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    ICE acting director demands that politicians “stop putting my people in danger” with rhetoric to rile up activists.

    “These are real people with real families you’re hurting with your ridiculous rhetoric and inflammatory comments, and it’s time to remember that.”

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5vGvhpKbrqU

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: 🎥Acting #ICE Director Todd Lyons defends ICE agents’ and officers’ use of masks w/uptick in assaults

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Watch Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons defend ICE agents’ and officers’ use of masks given the incredible uptick of assaults, harassment and dangerous doxing of ICE staff and their families.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1XHD83BUCzY

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: 2025 National Veterans Golden Age Games – Day 4 Highlights

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Halfway through the #GoldenAgeGames week, military couples continue to bond. With 18 medaled sports and 7 exhibition events, they’re proving that love and fitness thrive.

    Thanks for inspiring us all to live the #FitnessforLife motto. #CoupleGoals #sports4vets

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O1dLhGGPErc

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: 🎥Watch #ICE Atlanta arrest Santiago Morales Nava.

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Watch ICE Atlanta arrest Santiago Morales Nava.

    Morales knows the drill — he was removed from the United States in 2013. He was arrested last September for driving without a license but was released pending that charge.

    We picked him up May 15, and he’s now in a federal penitentiary pending his second removal back to Mexico.

    #shorts #shortvideo #shortsvideo

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=po4EstjSb2M

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: National Drought Group meets after driest spring in 132 years

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    National Drought Group meets after driest spring in 132 years

    Expert group told England has now experienced driest March, April and May since 1893.

    The Environment Agency convened a National Drought Group meeting today (5 June 2025) to discuss the latest outlook and hear from water companies about steps they are taking to prepare for the summer.  

    England has only seen 57% of the long-term average May rainfall and spring is the driest since the reign of Queen Victoria. However, the recent rain at the end of May and the start of June is helping to stabilise the position.

    The expert group will now meet monthly following a drought declaration in the north-west. Four other areas – the north-east, Yorkshire, east and west midlands – are also experiencing prolonged dry weather.  

    The EA told the group it has stepped up its operational response. This includes more compliance checks on businesses who abstract water, such as manufacturers, and increased monitoring of river and groundwater levels.

    The regulator is also working with all members of the National Drought Group, including the National Farmers Union, to help farmers plan their water needs over the summer.

    Meanwhile, water companies updated the group on how they are implementing their drought plans, including increased communication with customers, and speeding up the fixing of leaks.

    United Utilities in the north-west has increased the rate of finding and fixing leaks by 70% in recent weeks after a strong response from the community in spotting leaks during the dry weather.

    Youlgrave Waterworks, a private firm which supplies 500 homes in Derbyshire, became the first company to introduce a hosepipe ban at the start of June. The major water companies report they have no current plans for hosepipe bans but are keeping this under review.

    Helen Wakeham, EA Director of Water and National Drought Group chair, said: 

    It’s been the driest spring since 1893, and we need to be prepared for more summer droughts as our climate changes.

    The recent rainfall is having a positive effect, but it hasn’t been enough to stop a drought in the north-west and we must ensure we have enough water to last the entire summer.

    We are working with water companies, farmers and other abstractors to help them plan their water usage over the summer and urge people to be mindful about their daily use.

    The National Drought Group heard that without further substantial rain, some water companies may need to implement further drought measures this summer to conserve supplies.

    Water Minister Emma Hardy said:

    We face a water shortage in the next decade. That’s why the government is taking urgent steps to secure supplies into the future, as part of our Plan for Change.

    As an immediate step, we have convened the National Drought Group to make sure water companies are acting to conserve this precious resource and act in line with their drought plans.

    The Government has secured over £104 billion of private sector investment to fund essential infrastructure, including nine new reservoirs, and to cut leakage by 17% over the next five years.

    Dr Will Lang, Chief Meteorologist at the Met Office said: 

    After the driest Spring for more than a century across England, the start of June has brought some much-needed rainfall with a mix of Atlantic weather systems interspersed with drier and sunnier periods expected to continue over the coming days.

    Most areas will experience showers at times with some seeing longer spells of rain.  From mid-June onwards, the forecast becomes less clear with signs of drier conditions becoming more dominant across southern England.

    Looking further ahead, the chance of a hot summer is higher than normal with an associated increased risk of heatwaves and related impacts. After the more unsettled and wetter start to June, the likelihoods of a wetter or drier than average summer remain evenly balanced.

    Periods of dry weather and low rivers can have several consequences for the environment and wildlife. Low oxygen levels in water can lead to fish kills, as well as more algal blooms and lower river flows prevent wildlife from moving up or downstream.  

    The National Drought Group – which includes the Met Office, government, regulators, water companies, farmers, and conservation experts – heard:  

    • Reservoir levels are now at 77%.

    • Fish rescues have been carried out on the Rivers Redlake and Tern in Shropshire.  

    • Navigation issues have been noted with the Canals and Rivers Trust having to implement restrictions on the Leeds-Liverpool Canal and Lancaster Canal because of low water levels.   

    • The quality of spring crops is becoming a concern because of the dry soil and poor grass growth for feed.  

    • Applications for Local Resource Options (LRO) screening studies are now open for groups of farmers to explore ways to improve water availability and reliability.

    The Environment Agency is encouraging the public to report environmental incidents to their 24/7 hotline on 0800 80 70 60. Meanwhile angling groups are also asking members to report signs of environmental impacts.

    Notes to editors: 

    A decision to declare drought is taken based on reservoir levels, river flows and moisture in the soil along with consideration of the long-term weather forecasts.  

    More information on how drought is defined can be found here: Drought explained – Creating a better place

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Vigilance urged as warm and dry spring increases tree pest risk

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government Non-Ministerial Departments

    Press release

    Vigilance urged as warm and dry spring increases tree pest risk

    Forestry Commission calls for caution from forestry sector as Ips typographus beetle flight season gets underway

    Woodland managers, landowners and the forestry sector are today (Thursday 5 June) being encouraged to increase their vigilance against the tree pest Ips typographus.

    The warning comes following a record dry spring, and the heavy rain and waterlogging of last year, which has left lowland spruce, particularly those on clay soils, at heightened risk of stress, potentially increasing their susceptibility to beetle infestation.

    Ips typographus, also known as the eight-toothed spruce bark beetle, is a serious pest of spruce trees in Europe which was first identified in the UK in 2018. It prefers stressed or dying trees but under the right conditions it can attack healthy trees and has the potential to cause significant damage to Great Britain’s forestry and timber industries.

    We are now entering a heightened risk period as it is the beginning of the annual season of blow over of beetles from mainland Europe.

    The Forestry Commission, including Forest Research, lead a robust and comprehensive management programme to manage the pest which, if left unmanaged, could leave an estimated 725,000 hectares of spruce at risk of infestation with an estimated total value of £2.9 billion.

    Defra Chief Plant Health Officer Professor Nicola Spence said: 

    “I am urging foresters and landowners to really be on their guard as we enter the heightened risk period for Ips typographus.

    “We need maximum vigilance from all landowners and land managers as temperatures rise – the dry spring following last year’s wet summer has created ideal conditions for the beetle. The cooperation of the forestry sector has been vital in our efforts to keep the pest at bay and we need that to continue.”

    Dr Anna Brown, Director of Forest Services at the Forestry Commission, said: 

    “Continued vigilance to the threat posed by Ips typographus is needed following the recent rise in temperatures, and we’re urging landowners and land managers to report any sightings immediately via Tree Alert to help reduce the risk of the pest spreading. The beetle prefers stressed or dying trees but it can attack healthy trees if the conditions are right.

    “The help of the sector is vital in the successful management of this pest – landowners, agents and timber processors should continue to comply with ongoing restrictions for movement of spruce material and methods of forest operations in the Demarcated Area.” 

    A grant is available within the Proactive Spruce Removal Area as part of the Tree Health Pilot and the Forestry Commission plans to provide a new offer to further support removal of spruce later this year.  

    Defra will host a workshop later this year, in collaboration with UK Agri-Tech Centre, to continue to exchange knowledge with the international plant health community on innovative and technological solutions for managing bark beetle pests.

    Additional information:

    • The risk is highest within the ‘Demarcated Area’ currently in place in parts of the South East and East of England. This area is designated by the Forestry Commission to manage outbreaks of the beetle, with restrictions in place.

    • All outbreak sites are subject to robust eradication action in line with our Ips typographus contingency plan and a Demarcated Area is in place restricting the planting, movement and felling of susceptible material. Action includes destroying infested material as soon as possible to disrupt the lifecycle of the pest, preventing it from developing, emerging and dispersing. This is alongside ongoing wider environment surveillance to identify new outbreak sites. 

    • Material susceptible to infestation by the pest – that is, with weakened defences, like windthrow and harvesting residues – is prioritised for removal, to prevent further infestation by any beetles remaining on the site. 

    • Lastly, healthy spruce is also felled and removed from the area immediately surrounding the original infestation as a precautionary measure (on varying timescales, depending on the initial density of beetles in the infested area).

    • Following the removal of spruce, pheromone traps are placed on the site for three years during the insect flight period, to capture any beetles concealed in the leaf litter.

    • A map indicating the ‘Proactive Spruce Removal area’ is available via this link. 

    • Click here to read a blog outlining research taking place into the susceptibility of different spruce trees. 

    • An updated Outbreak Sites Summary Map is available via this link

    • Updated guidance is available via this link on movement restrictions for spruce within the Ips typographus Demarcated Area and guidance is also available on the process of being issued with a Statutory Plant Health Notice if you have an Ips infestation.

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Highland Council’s Amenities Team celebrates excellence award

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    The Amenities Team at Highland Council has won the Gold Award in the ‘Parks, Grounds and Street Scene’ category at this year’s APSE Scotland Striving for Excellence Awards.

    The awards recognise the achievements of local authorities in Scotland and celebrate those exceeding expectations within waste and recycling, parks, fleet and grounds management services.

    Chair of the Communities and Place Committee, Councillor Graham MacKenzie said: “This is a fantastic achievement for everyone in the team and a well-deserved award. The team have prioritised the voices of young people in everything they do which has resulted in a nationally recognised strategy that has played a part in influencing best practice. Play is fundamental to the wellbeing of children in our communities, and I would like to congratulate the Amenities Team for their commitment to ensuring our approach to play is child-led and beneficial for young people of all ages and abilities.”

    As part of The Council’s Amenities Review in 2024, an in-house play team was established with three members of staff and has now developed into a team of eight. Since then, the team has worked with more than 50 community groups, refurbished 27 play areas and approved a Playpark Strategy and Action Plan for the next 10 years. Highland Council’s Playpark Strategy was recently highlighted in the evidence base and supporting research of the Scottish Government’s Play Vision Statement and Action Plan 2025-2030.

    Debbie Sutton, Strategic Lead for Community Operations and Logistics at Highland Council accepted the award on behalf of the team and said: “We’re delighted to have won this award which recognises the team’s hard work and commitment to improving play for children of all ages throughout the Highlands. I am extremely proud of the team and honoured to accept the award on their behalf.”

    Winners were announced at a charity dinner on Thursday 22 May as part of the APSE Scotland Fleet, Waste and Grounds Seminar at the Aviemore Highland Resort.

    The Association for Public Service Excellence (APSE) is a not-for-profit local government body working with over 300 councils throughout the UK to promote excellence in public services.

    Highland Council’s Amenities Team

    5 Jun 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Vitaly Savelyev: The International Transport and Logistics Forum is an opportunity to build an open, constructive and mutually beneficial dialogue between the state, business and international partners

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Vitaly Savelyev held a meeting of the organizing committee for the preparation and holding of the International Transport and Logistics Forum.

    In Moscow, a meeting of the organizing committee for the preparation and holding of the International Transport and Logistics Forum, which will be held in the spring of 2026 in St. Petersburg, was held under the chairmanship of Deputy Prime Minister Vitaly Savelyev.

    The event was attended by representatives of federal ministries and departments, heads of major transport companies, as well as industry experts and partners.

    “The focus is on the development of international transport corridors, including the North-South ITC, strengthening integration ties within the Union State, the EAEU, the CIS, improving the regulatory framework at the level of global industry regulators, as well as using the potential of such organizations as the SCO and BRICS. Our task is to ensure a high level of preparation and organization of all forum events,” noted Vitaly Savelyev.

    The forum, which will be held in St. Petersburg at the end of April 2026, will become a new strategic platform for a comprehensive discussion of the development of transport logistics, international corridors, legal regulation, digitalization and the implementation of innovative solutions in the transport industry. The Roscongress Foundation has been appointed as the forum operator.

    “We hold many events in the transport sector throughout the year, and with the advent of such a forum, we will be able to clearly structure the annual cycle: in the spring – the international logistics agenda, in the fall – the domestic Russian agenda, as part of the Transport Week. This will allow us to represent Russia’s interests in a coordinated manner at various levels – from the EU and the CIS to BRICS and the SCO,” added Transport Minister Roman Starovoit.

    During the meeting, it was proposed to begin an immediate invitation campaign for foreign and Russian partners. Also in the plans is the development of a corporate style for the forum, the launch of an official website, the formation of a working architecture of the program and the determination of the venue.

    “In this format, we implement the instructions of the President of the Russian Federation to ensure the global competitiveness of our transport corridors, including the implementation of decrees within the framework of national goals until 2030 with a perspective until 2036. The forum is in demand – our international partners have repeatedly said this. We see a high interest in creating such a platform, especially in the inter-forum period, when it will be possible to continue substantive work. Today, the architecture of the forum, including its program content, is being formed with the Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other departments. This will not be just an event – it will be a point of attraction for advanced solutions, a demonstration of industry achievements and an international dialogue on logistics and infrastructure,” said Anton Kobyakov, Advisor to the President of Russia, Executive Secretary of the Organizing Committee.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –