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Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Curtain falls on African Development Bank Group 2025 Annual Meetings, New President Elected

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

    ABIDJAN, Ivory Coast, May 30, 2025/APO Group/ —

    • Nigeria provides $500 million to extend the Nigeria Trust Fund for another 15 years 
    • “It has been the greatest honour of my life to serve as president of the African Development Bank Group and to serve Africa “– Dr. Akinwumi Adesina 

    The African Development Bank Group’s 2025 Annual Meetings (www.AfDB.org) closed on Friday with a plenary session, following five days of meetings and discussions on Africa’s development landscape. The meetings also saw the election of a new president for a five-year term, beginning 1 September.  

    On Thursday, governors of the Group’s 81 shareholders elected former finance minister Mauritanian Sidi Ould Tah as the new president of the continent’s premier development institution. 

    The meetings were held in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire from 26-30 May under the theme: Making Africa’s Capital Work Better for Africa’s Development—a call for leaders to ditch aid and look inwards to Africa’s rich capital to solve its development and economic challenges. 

    Secretary General of the Bank Vincent Nmehielle described the meetings as a “resounding success”. He thanked Nialé Kaba, Minister of Economy, Planning and Development, outgoing Chairperson of the Boards of Governors, for her “sterling work, dedication and guidance of her duties over the past year.” He also thanked the 81 governors—finance ministers, economy ministers or central bank governors representing each of the African Development Bank’s shareholder countries. 

    Thirteen outgoing executive directors who have finished their term of office were recognized. Together, they represent a 75 percent change in the board composition for the next year. 

    Outgoing President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina expressed his best wishes to the president-elect. 

    “I am delighted for my brother and friend on his election as president of the African Development Bank Group. Hearty congratulations! I wish you great success in the years ahead,” Adesina said.  

    Participants also heard video congratulatory messages to Adesina from world leaders, including World Bank head Ajay Banga and Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, director general of the World Trade Organization. 

    The Board of Governors also sent a congratulatory message conveyed through the Bank governor for Zambia, Situmbeko Musokotwan, Minister of Finance and National Planning. “We thank you for the remarkable results,” he said. 

    The meetings also saw new milestones for the Bank. 

    On Thursday, the Bank signed an agreement with the Finance ministry of Nigeria to extend the Nigeria Trust Fund (https://apo-opa.co/4ko9r9u)—for another 15 years. Nigeria provided an additional $500 million to the Nigeria Trust Fund. “An impressive contribution. Thank you, Nigeria,” Adesina said. 

    The Nigeria Trust Fund, the third arm of the Bank Group, is a self-sustaining revolving fund set up to assist the development efforts of the Bank’s low-income regional member countries whose economic and social conditions and prospects require concessional financing. Its resources are allocated to projects, not to countries. 

    “I am glad this agreement was signed a day before the end of the meetings,” Adesina said. 

    In an emotional farewell, Adesina sang a few of his favorite songs—Johnny Nash’s “I can see clearly now,” and Bob Geldof’s “We are the World.” 

    “This is my last Annual Meetings as president of the African Development Bank Group, after completing two five-year terms,” Adesina said. “It has been an extraordinary ten years working together… Thank you for the opportunity, trust and resources you gave me to serve as President of the African Development Bank Group. It has been the greatest honour of my life to serve as President of the African Development Bank Group and to serve Africa.”  

    In a short ceremony Kaba, handed the African Development Bank’s flag to Congolese Economy minister Ludovic Ngatse and announced that the 2026 Annual Meetings of the Bank Group will take place in Congo Brazzaville from 25-29 May 2026. 

    Speaking on behalf of Ivorian Prime Minister Robert Beugre, Kaba also thanked all participants “for contributing to the strategic reflection and solidarity with a view to steering our continent to a better future. and Cote d’Ivoire, the host country.” 

    In addition to the official programme, 60 side events as well as cultural events and a spouse’s programme were part of this year’s colourful meetings. 

    To review sessions you missed or for any information on the Annual Meetings, click here (https://apo-opa.co/43T3MlS). 

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: South Sudan: Renewal of UN arms embargo a welcome move to protect civilians

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Following the United Nations Security Council’s decision to renew the arms embargo on South Sudan for another year, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, Tigere Chagutah said:

    “We welcome the renewal of the arms embargo as it has been crucial to curtailing the flow of weapons that have been used to violate international humanitarian law (IHL) and call on the Security Council and urge UN members to diligently enforce it, especially amid recent violations.

    “We are, however, shocked that several Security Council members as well as the African Union Peace and Security Council called for the lifting of the arms embargo at a time when the human rights situation in South Sudan is deteriorating rapidly. Placing more guns in the hands of warring parties involved in serious human rights violations and crimes under international law would have been dangerous to civilians.”

    We welcome the renewal of the arms embargo as it has been crucial to curtailing the flow of weapons that have been used to violate international humanitarian law (IHL) and call on the Security Council and urge UN members to diligently enforce it, especially amid recent violations.

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

    Background

    Earlier this month, Amnesty International found that theMarch deployment of armed Ugandan soldiers and military equipment to South Sudan since 11 March 2025, in absence of a notification or exemption request to the UN Security Council Sanctions Committee, flagrantly violates the arms embargo. Amnesty International also documented evidence of the ongoing use of attack helicopters by the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF), strongly suggesting that the supply of spare parts – an arms embargo violation previously documented by Amnesty International – continues. 

    In 2020, Amnesty International documented evidence newly imported small arms and ammunition, illicit concealment of weapons and diversion of armoured vehicles for unauthorized military purposes, pointing to the failure of the parties to the 2018 peace agreement, including the South Sudanese government, to adhere to the UN embargo, and to implement relevant provisions of the 2018 peace agreement under which they also committed to protect human rights.

    The human rights situation in South Sudan remains dire as government forces, fighters of armed opposition groups as well as armed youth continue to violate human rights.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Statement on Supreme Court Decision Revoking Humanitarian Migrant Programs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    BURLINGTON, VT—Today the U.S. Supreme Court ruled to effectively deport more than 500,000 immigrants from Cuba, Nicaragua, Venezuela, and Haiti who fled war, political persecution, humanitarian crises, and failed economies to migrate lawfully to America through the humanitarian parole process. U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.)  released the following statement:
    “This decision by the Supreme Court is shameful and heartbreaking. More than 530,000 people who are making their lives in America, have families and careers in America, and are living in lawful status in America, will be forced to return to a country they fled,” said Senator Welch. “The Supreme Court and the Trump Administration are inflicting unconscionable hardship on these migrants, their families, their communities, and their workplaces by revoking legal status for no legitimate reason.  It goes against everything America stands for as a country of refuge for immigrants.”  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Two Foreign Nationals Indicted for Plot to Silence U.S. Dissident and Smuggle U.S. Military Technology to China

    Source: US State Government of Utah

    Defendants Charged in Los Angeles and Milwaukee with Interstate Stalking, Arms Export Violations, and Smuggling

    Federal grand juries in Milwaukee and Los Angeles each returned indictments charging two foreign nationals, Cui Guanghai, 43, of China, and John Miller, 63, of the United Kingdom and a U.S. lawful permanent resident, with interstate stalking and conspiracy to commit interstate stalking (Los Angeles) and conspiracy, smuggling, and violations of the Arms Export Control Act (Milwaukee).

    “As alleged, the defendants targeted a U.S. resident for exercising his constitutional right to free speech and conspired to traffic sensitive American military technology to the Chinese regime,” said Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche. “This is a blatant assault on both our national security and our democratic values. This Justice Department will not tolerate foreign repression on U.S. soil, nor will we allow hostile nations to infiltrate or exploit our defense systems. We will act decisively to expose and dismantle these threats wherever they emerge.”

    “The defendants allegedly plotted to harass and interfere with an individual who criticized the actions of the People’s Republic of China while exercising their constitutionally protected free speech rights within the United States of America,” said FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino. “The same individuals also are charged with trying to obtain and export sensitive U.S. military technology to China. I want to commend the good work of the FBI and our partners in the U.S and overseas in putting a stop to these illegal activities.”

    Allegations in the Central District of California

    According to court documents, beginning in October 2023, Cui and Miller enlisted two individuals (Individual 1 and Individual 2) inside the United States to carry out a plot to prevent the Victim from protesting President Xi’s appearance at the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in November 2023. The victim had previously made public statements in opposition to the policies and actions of the PRC government and President Xi.

    “The indictment alleges that Chinese foreign actors targeted a victim in our nation because he criticized the Chinese government and its president,” said U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli for the Central District of California. “My office will continue to use all legal methods available to hold accountable foreign nationals engaging in criminal activity on our soil.”

    Unbeknownst to Cui and Miller, Individual 1 and Individual 2 were affiliated with and acting at the direction of the FBI.

    In the weeks leading up to the APEC summit, Cui and Miller directed and coordinated an interstate scheme to surveil the victim, to install a tracking device on the victim’s car, to slash the tires on the victim’s car, and to purchase and destroy a pair of artistic statues created by the victim depicting President Xi and President Xi’s wife.

    A similar scheme took place in the spring of 2025, after the victim announced that he planned to make public an online video feed depicting two new artistic statues of President Xi and his wife. In connection with these plots, Cui and Miller paid two other individuals (Individual 3 and Individual 4), approximately $36,500 to convince the victim to desist from the online display of the statues. Unbeknownst to Cui and Miller, Individual 3 and Individual 4 were also affiliated with and acting at the direction of the FBI.

    Allegations in the Eastern District of Wisconsin

    According to court documents, beginning in November 2023, Miller and Cui solicited the procurement of U.S. defense articles, including missiles, air defense radar, drones, and cryptographic devices with associated crypto ignition keys for unlawful export from the United States to the People’s Republic of China from two individuals (Individual 5 and Individual 6).  

    In connection with the scheme, Cui and Miller discussed with Individuals 5 and 6 ways to export a cryptographic device from the United States to the People’s Republic of China, including concealing the device in a blender, small electronics, or motor starter, and shipping the device first to Hong Kong. Cui and Miller paid approximately $10,000 as a deposit for the cryptographic device via a courier in the United States and a wire transfer to a U.S. bank account.

    ***

    If convicted, Cui and Miller face the following maximum penalties: five years in prison for conspiracy; five years in prison for interstate stalking; 20 years in prison for violation of the Arms Export Control Act; and 10 years in prison for smuggling.

    The FBI is investigating the case. The United States is coordinating with Serbian authorities regarding the pending extraditions of Cui and Miller from Serbia.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys David Ryan and Amanda B. Elbogen for the Central District of California, Benjamin Taibleson for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, and Trial Attorneys Leslie Esbrook and Menno Goedman of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the cases, with valuable assistance provided by the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs.

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: USNS Comfort Departs Norfolk in Support of Continuing Promise 2025

    Source: United States SOUTHERN COMMAND

    The U.S. Navy Mercy-class hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH 20) departed Naval Station Norfolk to begin its summer deployment to the U.S. Southern Command area of operation in support of U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/U.S.4th Fleet’s Continuing Promise 2025, May 30.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Amherst — Cumberland County District RCMP charges man with 18 offences after police car stolen in New Brunswick

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Cumberland County District RCMP has charged a man with more than 20 offences after an RCMP police car was reported stolen in New Brunswick and driven into Nova Scotia.

    On May 16, at approximately 2:32 p.m., Cumberland County District RCMP and Amherst Police Department (APD) responded to a report by New Brunswick RCMP dispatch that a stolen RCMP police car was entering Nova Scotia.

    The movements of the car were being monitored through the car’s GPS system by the RCMP operational communications centre (OCC) in New Brunswick. The RCMP OCC in Nova Scotia took over monitoring the vehicle’s movements once it entered the province.

    APD officers attempted to stop the vehicle on Hwy. 2 in Upper Nappan, but the driver fled towards Amherst Point on the Southampton Rd. APD and RCMP officers pursued the car. Minutes later, officers deployed a spike belt on Southampton Rd., damaging the suspect vehicle.

    The suspect entered onto Hwy. 104 westbound as officers followed. At approximately 2:49 p.m., officers safely forced the car off the highway near the Fort Lawrence overpass and took the suspect into custody.

    No one was injured during the arrest.

    Highway 104 was closed for approximately six hours in support of the operation.

    The RCMP police car was stolen on May 16 while an RCMP officer responded to a report of an unwanted person at a hotel in Sackville, New Brunswick.

    Kyle Douglas Smith, 37, of Moncton, has been charged in Nova Scotia with:

    • Assaulting a Peace Officer with a Weapon
    • Assaulting a Peace Officer
    • Operation While Prohibited
    • Flight from a Peace Officer
    • Dangerous Operation
    • Operation while Impaired
    • Possession of Property Obtained by Crime
    • Failure to Comply with a Release Order
    • Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose (two counts)
    • Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
    • Possession of a Firearm Knowing Its Possession is Unauthorized (two counts)
    • Unauthorized Possession in Motor Vehicle (two counts)
    • Possession of a Prohibited or Restricted Firearm with Ammunition
    • Possession of Weapon Obtained by Commission of Offence
    • Mischief

    Smith appeared in Amherst Provincial Court on May 21 and was remanded into custody. He’s scheduled to next appear in Amherst Provincial Court on June 16.

    Smith is also facing charges in New Brunswick.

    The RCMP in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia were prepared to issue an alert through the Alert Ready system; the suspect, however, was then apprehended quickly and safely.

    File #: 2025-662879

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Head of Jeddore — RCMP charges a man with sexual offences against a youth victim

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment (HRD) has charged a man with sexual offences committed against a youth victim known to him.

    Yesterday evening, in relation to an ongoing sexual assault investigation, RCMP officers, assisted by the RCMP/HRP Integrated Criminal Investigation Division and the RCMP Emergency Response Team, executed a warrant to enter a residence near the 9500 block of Hwy. 7.

    Inside the home, officers located and safely arrested a 30-year-old Dartmouth man involved in a sexual assault, and two other men for unrelated matters. At the scene, a stolen motorcycle was also recovered.

    Codie Kenneth Bruce Horne has been charged with:

    • Uttering Threats
    • Sexual Assault
    • Sexual Interference
    • Invitation to Sexual Touching
    • Failure to Comply with a Release Order (two counts)
    • Intimidation of a Justice System Participant

    Horne was held in custody and will appear in Dartmouth Provincial Court today.

    File: 25-47019, 25-74832

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Elizabeth Man Charged with Making Antisemitic Threat to Injure Local Public Official

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Edward Arthur Owens Jr., 29, a resident of Elizabeth, Pennsylvania, has been charged by federal criminal complaint with making a threat to injure a local public official, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. Owens was arrested on the criminal complaint this morning by agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

    According to the complaint, on May 20, 2025, Owens knowingly and willfully transmitted via a social media messaging app the following threat to injure a local public official: “We’re coming for you [emoji of person raising right hand] [German flag emoji] be afraid. Go back to Israel or better yet, exterminate yourself and save us the trouble. 109 countries for a reason. We will not stop until your kind is nonexistent.” The complaint explains that the reference to “109 countries,” according to the Anti-Defamation League, is an antisemitic assertion that Jews have been expelled from 109 different countries; it is used by antisemites to call for the expulsion of Jews from other countries and otherwise to promote hatred. The recipient of the message is a local official who regularly engages with the public.

    The United States has filed a request for detention of the defendant pending trial, asserting that he is a danger to the community and should be held without bail. A hearing on the government’s motion will be held June 5, 2025, at 10 a.m.

    Assistant United States Attorney Carl J. Spindler is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the criminal complaint against Owens.

    A criminal complaint is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Libya becomes a full participating state and shareholder of Afreximbank

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

    CAIRO, Egypt, May 30, 2025/APO Group/ —

    The State of Libya has taken a critical step towards its full membership of African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) with the acquisition of shares in the African multilateral Bank, making the country both a participating state and a shareholder of the Bank. The country submitted its payment for the acquisition of the Bank’s shares on 13 May 2025.  

    Libya acceded to Afreximbank’s Establishment Agreement in October 2024, becoming the 52nd African nation to do so, and marking an important step towards full continental coverage and advancement of the Bank’s continental integration agenda; through trade and investments. 

    The acquisition of Afreximbank’s shares by Libya further strengthens ties with the oil rich nation and enhances critical support to the Libyan economy. Target areas of intervention by Afreximbank include infrastructure and oil and gas, and export of manufactured goods to the rest of Africa, while also supporting regional integration projects targeting other countries in North Africa. 

    “Libya’s shareholding in Afreximbank puts the Bank in a strong position to support the government’s reconstruction efforts while also helping to deepen its regional connectivity through investments in critical projects such as the oil pipeline and road projects between Egypt and Libya, and the electricity transmission and linkage project covering Libya, Tunisia, and Algeria. It reaffirms the confidence of African governments in their Pan-African Multilateral Financial Institution,” said Prof. Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors, of Afreximbank.  

    Prof. Oramah commended Libya for its investment in the Bank which demonstrates increased confidence in the organisation’s activities, primarily its mandate of transforming African Trade. He noted that the shareholding in the Bank will help to expand its services, reach and influence in the region, besides enhancing its capital base.  

    In acceding to the Establishment Agreement, His Excellency Dr. Khaled Al-Mabrouk Abdullah, Minister of Finance for the State of Libya, highlighted the importance of the partnership in supporting reconstruction and economic diversification efforts in his country and said that the nation’s accession was a milestone in its journey towards rebuilding its economy and re-establishing its role as a regional trading hub. He said: “Libya is grateful to His Excellency, Prof. Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors, of Afreximbank, for his persistent efforts in facilitating Libya’s full participation in the Bank’s foundational agreement. The acquisition of shares in Afreximbank solidifies Libya’s position as a full member state and shareholder in this esteemed multilateral African institution. This represents a historic achievement, following our accession to the Bank’s Establishment Agreement in October 2024. 

    “We regard this development as a critical step forward in Libya’s journey towards greater economic integration within the African continent. Our accession as the 52nd African nation to Afreximbank underscores our commitment to fostering robust trade and investment relationships across Africa.” 

    Dr. Abdullah noted that the partnership between Libya and Afreximbank would help unlock new avenues for economic growth, diversification, and development in his country. “We eagerly anticipate leveraging the Bank’s expertise and resources to support our national economic agenda and to contribute effectively to the advancement of intra-African trade and continental integration. We commend Afreximbank for its unwavering commitment to African economic advancement and look forward to a fruitful and mutually beneficial collaboration,” he added.  

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the African Development Bank is accelerating the transformation of infrastructure and access to basic social services

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

    ABIDJAN, Ivory Coast, May 30, 2025/APO Group/ —

    Roads in Kenge, Kikwit, Tshikapa, Kamuensha, and Mbuji-Mayi have been completely rehabilitated, new stretches of road built, and urban roads modernized. Numerous examples of socioeconomic infrastructure have also benefited from the financial support of the African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org), helping to transform the daily lives of hundreds of thousands of Congolese.

    A multi-sectoral mission from the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the African Development Bank witnessed the impact of these investments during field visits to the five municipalities in western DRC between 5 and 19 May 2025. More specifically, the three projects, financed by the Bank, focus on rehabilitating road infrastructure, enhancing air safety, and improving access to basic social services.

    Health centres, hydraulic structures equipped with modern technology, provincial rural markets, schools, a refurbished runway in Mbuji-Mayi, and air safety equipment meeting international standards are just some of the successes the joint mission was able to witness.

    “The mission measured the concrete impact of the projects supported by the Bank in Kasai. From roads to social infrastructure and air safety, progress is visible and is transforming the lives of the population. We pay tribute to the work completed and remain committed to consolidating the gains achieved, in particular with the extension of the Mbuji-Mayi runway to make it a hub that meets international standards,” commented Mohamed Coulibaly, Country Programme Manager in charge of the Bank Group’s Office in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

    Opening a key route in the road network

    The first stage of the mission concerned the project to rehabilitate the Kinshasa/Ndjili-Batshamba section of national road no. 1. The project involves the rehabilitation of 622 kilometres of road between Kinshasa and Batshamba via Kenge and Kikwit, a key route in the Congolese road network. In the past, this strategic corridor was virtually impassable due to the advanced deterioration of the road surface and a series of sinkholes, and took several days or in some cases weeks, to drive along. Thanks to $68.57 million in funding from the African Development Bank, the work carried out now means the route can be travelled safely in less than a day. This improves connectivity between the capital and the provinces of Mai-Ndombe, Kwango, Kwilu and Kasaï.

    “In addition to asphalting the road, the Bank has financed the construction and equipping of schools, health centres, boreholes, rural markets, social reintegration centres, administrative buildings, a modern market and weigh stations along the route, as well as the rehabilitation of over 700 kilometres of rural roads,” explains Jean Luemba, the RN1 project coordinator. The Bank has also provided substantial logistical support (vehicles and IT equipment) to the state structures involved in the projects.

    Ultimately, this initiative will benefit over 19 million people by facilitating access to markets, improving the availability of agricultural products and food security, and supporting mobility and economic activities.

    Significant progress in social infrastructure

    In terms of social infrastructure, the achievements of the second phase of the Project for the Reinforcement of Socioeconomic Infrastructure in the Central Region (PRISE II) are significant: most of the construction work on schools, health centres, public latrines, and rural markets has been completed or is nearing completion. The execution rate is estimated at 75%. As for the 41 schools under construction, most are ready for handover. The same applies to the 40 health centres, whose buildings have been completed. Public markets are also making good progress, with several structures already operational.

    In addition, the project has planned community awareness-raising and vocational training activities, including training young people in plumbing, promoting hygiene and local water governance. During the joint mission, the national authorities reiterated their willingness to broaden the scope of the “PRISE” project by integrating geophysical studies into the Drinking Water Supply and Sanitation Programme, thus supporting the national ambition of universal coverage in this area. The project’s aim is to reach over 870,000 direct beneficiaries in 10 provinces, by improving access rates to water, sanitation, health and education.

    Advanced airport infrastructure

    In the air transport sector, a visit to the second phase of the Priority Air Safety Project (PPSA2) revealed remarkable progress in the rehabilitation and extension of the Mbuji-Mayi runway. Around 85% of the 320-metre runway has already been completed. The new tarmac is 95% complete, while the ramp, service road and runway end safety areas (RESA) are 70 to 75% complete. Vital technical infrastructure such as the control tower, power plant, fire station, and lighting system are nearing completion. At Kisangani-Bangoka international airport, the aircraft movement areas, taxiways and tarmac have been completely rehabilitated, and two turn pads have been installed.

    In addition, six radio navigation systems (DVOR/DME) have been deployed at Goma, Mbuji-Mayi, Kindu, Kinshasa, Lubumbashi, and Mbandaka, enhancing the safety of domestic flights. Eight VHF radio channels have also been installed at several secondary airports to improve aeronautical communication. The upgrading of equipment, combined with capacity-building for technical staff, has reduced the number of air accidents in the DRC from an average of 10 to one a year.

    The project also includes training for the Régie des voies aériennes staff in the following areas: safety and air bases, maintenance techniques and project management for the Régie, and air transport inspectors for the Civil Aviation Authority.

    At the end of the visit, the mission underlined the technical quality of the work carried out, the commitment of the contractors and local ownership. In Tshikapa, a local resident declared: “Tshikapa today is the African Development Bank!”, testifying to the visibility and tangible impact of the projects on the daily lives of the local population.

    These results also illustrate the importance of close coordination between the Bank, the Congolese government and technical and financial partners, including the European Union and the World Bank, which were also involved in the construction of certain sections of the RN1.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Video: 🎥Watch ICE San Antonio arrest Honduran illegal alien Jose Martinez-Ulloa.

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

    Watch ICE San Antonio arrest Honduran illegal alien Jose Martinez-Ulloa. If you don’t have legal status, it’s time to self-deport. By self-deporting, noncriminal illegal aliens can:

    • Skip the ICE arrest
    • Get a free flight home
    • Receive a $1,000 stipend

    ICE.gov/self-deportation

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0WrAsg0MUrs

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick Statement on SCOTUS Decision to Reverse Judge’s Order

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-Florida 20th district))

    Washington, D.C. –“This ruling isn’t just a blow to the rights and safety of these legal immigrants—it’s also a direct attack on South Florida’s economy. This reckless measure threatens our economy by failing to allocate funds for training Americans for these jobs. 

    “House Republicans have obstructed essential job skills training, leaving critical industries—healthcare, construction, and hospitality—severely understaffed and vulnerable.

    “Taking away their legal status and work permits will not only devastate families—it will weaken our local economy and disrupt essential services.”

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján Leads Senate Democrats Urging Additional Funding to Keep Communities Safe

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)
    Washington D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) led 29 Senate Democrats in urging the Senate Committee on Appropriations to fund the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Hiring Program at a minimum of $270 million for Fiscal Year 2026. Amid a nationwide shortage of police officers, the COPS Hiring Program is critical for keeping communities safe and reducing taxpayer costs related to crime by providing funding directly to law enforcement agencies to increase their community policing capacity and crime prevention efforts.
    “The COPS Hiring Program represents a fiscally responsible solution to ensure that our communities remain safe. CHP provides funds directly to law enforcement agencies to hire new or rehire additional career law enforcement officers and to increase their community policing capacity and crime-prevention efforts,” the lawmakers wrote.
    “When officers establish a presence on their patrols using community-policing principles, they can develop positive relationships with the communities they serve.  In turn, these relationships increase law enforcement’s ability to solve local crimes and resolve public safety problems,” the lawmakers continued. “This proactive approach to policing prevents crime from occurring, saving taxpayers the high societal costs associated with crime, incarceration, and services for victims.”
    Led by Senator Luján, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Angus King (I-Maine), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Richard Durbin (D-Ill.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.).
    The full text of the letter can be found HERE and below: 
    Dear Chairman Moran and Ranking Member Van Hollen:
    As you consider funding levels for Fiscal Year 2026, we urge you to fund the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Hiring Program at a minimum of $270 million.
    The COPS Hiring Program represents a fiscally responsible solution to ensure that our communities remain safe. CHP provides funds directly to law enforcement agencies to hire new or rehire additional career law enforcement officers and to increase their community policing capacity and crime-prevention efforts. When officers establish a presence on their patrols using community-policing principles, they can develop positive relationships with the communities they serve.  In turn, these relationships increase law enforcement’s ability to solve local crimes and resolve public safety problems.  This proactive approach to policing prevents crime from occurring, saving taxpayers the high societal costs associated with crime, incarceration, and services for victims.
    To date, the COPS Office has been appropriated more than $20 billion to advance community policing including grants awarded to more than 15,000 state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of more than 136,000 officers. In 2024, the program awarded 235 grants across all 50 states and the District of Columbia. In total, the program allowed for the funding of 1193 officer positions. COPS Hiring plays an essential role in our federal government’s support for local law enforcement and should therefore receive the highest possible level of funding.
    We are supported in this request by law enforcement organizations including the National Fraternal Order of Police, National Association of Police Organizations, the U.S. Conference of Mayors, Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association, and the Major Cities Chiefs Association.  We appreciate the hard work and leadership that you have shown on these issues. Ongoing crime and violence across the country demonstrates the vital need for increased police protection in our communities.  Therefore, as you determine the funding levels for this program, we ask that you support funding for the COPS Hiring Program at the highest possible level.
    Thank you for your consideration of this request.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: With Over $42 BILLION In Vital Broadband Funding Still Held Up By Trump Administration, Leader Schumer, Ranking Member Cantwell, And Senator Luján Demand Admin Stop The Delays & Immediately Release The Funding Into American Communities; Senators Say 25 Million Americans Still Lack High-Speed Internet As Bipartisan Funding Lingers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), along with Commerce Committee Ranking Member Maria Cantwell (D-WA), and Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), sent the following letter to Commerce Secretary Lutnick and President Trump demanding that the Commerce Department immediately release the $42 billion allocated for the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program.

    Today, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), along with Ranking Member of the Commerce Committee, Maria Cantwell (D-WA), and Ranking Member of the Senate Commerce Committee’s Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Media, Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), sent the following letter to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and President Trump demanding the immediate release the $42 billion allocated for the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program as part of the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. This program was designed to help our country on its path to creating universal access to high-speed internet – vital for remote work, education, job training and applications, telehealth, emergency services, and more. With the endless delays to get the crucial funding out the door and into American communities, 25 million people across our country risk going without access to the internet. 

    “States have spent years developing implementation plans under the BEAD program to reach every American with high-speed internet access. These plans reflect local needs, technical realities, and the bipartisan intent of Congress,” the Senators wrote. “States are ready to put shovels in the ground and have been waiting for months to get started connecting communities and building networks that will support the industries of tomorrow. Additional delays and onerous changes to the program at this stage threaten to further stall urgently needed deployment and leave communities behind.”

    The Senators also noted that beyond everyday applications of high-speed internet, this money is also essential to ensuring that America is able to maintain its competitive edge over countries such as China. Al systems – including data centers, chip manufacturing facilities and more – require access to power and internet. Without proper broadband networks in place, communities will not be able to house these job-creating facilities. Our government must work to ensure that all areas in our country – especially rural ones – are able to contribute to America’s innovative edge and technological dominance. Without BEAD funding getting out the door, these rural communities risk falling either further behind. 

    States have spent months developing plans to break ground and build high-speed, scalable, and reliable networks everywhere. The Trump administration should not throttle this process or delay it just to give more money to the world’s richest man. The Senators urge the immediate and swift release of all BEAD program funding.

    BEAD Grant Allocations By State

    State Amount
    Texas $3,312,616,455.45
    California $1,864,136,508.93
    Missouri $1,736,302,708.39
    Michigan $1,559,362,479.29
    North Carolina $1,532,999,481.15
    Virginia $1,481,489,572.87
    Alabama $1,401,221,901.77
    Louisiana $1,355,554,552.94
    Georgia $1,307,214,371.30
    Washington $1,227,742,066.30
    West Virginia $1,210,800,969.85
    Mississippi $1,203,561,563.05
    Florida $1,169,947,392.70
    Pennsylvania $1,161,778,272.41
    Kentucky $1,086,172,536.86
    Wisconsin $1,055,823,573.71
    Illinois $1,040,420,751.50
    Arkansas $1,024,303,993.86
    Alaska $1,017,139,672.42
    Arizona $993,112,231.37
    Indiana $868,109,929.79
    Colorado $826,522,650.41
    Tennessee $813,319,680.22
    Oklahoma $797,435,691.25
    Ohio $793,688,107.63
    Oregon $688,914,932.17
    New Mexico $675,372,311.86
    New York $664,618,251.49
    Minnesota $651,839,368.20
    Montana $628,973,798.59
    Idaho $583,256,249.88
    South Carolina $551,535,983.05
    Kansas $451,725,998.15
    Nevada $416,666,229.74
    Iowa $415,331,313.00
    Nebraska $405,281,070.41
    Wyoming $347,877,921.27
    Puerto Rico $334,614,151.70
    Utah $317,399,741.54
    Maine $271,977,723.07
    Maryland $267,738,400.71
    New Jersey $263,689,548.65
    Vermont $228,913,019.08
    South Dakota $207,227,523.92
    New Hampshire $196,560,278.97
    Guam $156,831,733.59
    Hawaii $149,484,493.57
    Massachusetts $147,422,464.39
    Connecticut $144,180,792.71
    North Dakota $130,162,815.12
    Rhode Island    $108,718,820.75
    Delaware $107,748,384.66
    District of Columbia $100,694,786.93
    Northern Mariana Islands $80,796,709.02
    American Samoa $37,564,827.53
    U.S. Virgin Islands $27,103,240.86

    The letter can be seen here and below.

    Dear Sec. Lutnick and President Trump,

    Congress created the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program as part of the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to finish the job of connecting everyone and building high-speed, scalable, and reliable networks everywhere. For six months, states have been waiting to break ground on scores of projects, held back only by the Commerce Department’s bureaucratic delays. If states are forced to redo or rework their plans, they will not only miss this year’s construction season but next year’s as well, delaying broadband deployment by years. That’s why we urge the Administration to move swiftly to approve state plans, and release the $42 billion allocated to the states by the BEAD Program. 

    Universal access to high-speed internet is essential for jobs, education, and telehealth—and also for the bandwidth-hungry innovation economy, from artificial intelligence and advanced robotics to smart manufacturing and semiconductor production. Further delay means 25 million Americans continue to wait for high-speed internet and the economic benefits it brings. It also means that we risk falling behind China, which is aggressively building out digital infrastructure to support its AI, advanced manufacturing, and semiconductor ambitions. 

    States have already developed plans to address these needs, and restarting or slowing down the process will only hold back progress. States must maintain the flexibility to choose the highest quality broadband options, rather than be forced by bureaucrats in Washington to funnel funds to Elon Musk’s Starlink, which lacks the scalability, reliability, and speed of fiber or other terrestrial broadband solutions.

    High-speed, reliable, and scalable connectivity is essential for jobs, education, and telehealth. It’s also the backbone for the advanced industries of today and tomorrow. AI systems require massive volumes of data and low-latency networks to operate effectively. Data centers, smart warehouses, robotic assembly lines, and chip fabrication plants all depend on fast, stable, and scalable bandwidth. If we want these job-creating facilities built throughout the United States, including rural areas, we must ensure the infrastructure—including high-speed internet networks—is in place to support them. If we want AI developed and deployed in the United States, if we want to win the race for semiconductor dominance, if we want the next generation of manufacturing jobs to be created here, then we must act now—and we must build the high-speed, high-capacity networks those technologies demand.

    States have spent years developing implementation plans under the BEAD program to reach every American with high-speed internet access. These plans reflect local needs, technical realities, and the bipartisan intent of Congress. States are ready to put shovels in the ground and have been waiting for months to get started connecting communities and building networks that will support the industries of tomorrow. Additional delays and onerous changes to the program at this stage threaten to further stall urgently needed deployment and leave communities behind. 

    We urge you to move forward with the submitted BEAD plans and deliver on the promise of the BEAD program without further delay. Every American and every community needs access to reliable, scalable, and high-speed internet if we are to remain the world’s innovation leader.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Texas’ Brightest, Bravest, And Best

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn

    As the son of a career Air Force officer who flew B-17s during World War II, I hold the men and women of the United States Armed Forces in the highest regard. That’s why it’s both an honor and a privilege each year to nominate some of our state’s finest young Texans to our nation’s prestigious military service academies.

    What makes this task so special is knowing that some of Texas’ brightest, bravest, and best have chosen to step into a life of service that demands courage and sacrifice. The nomination and selection process is highly competitive, and great care is taken in reviewing hundreds of applications from outstanding high school students from all throughout our state. I am grateful to the current and former service men and women on my academy review board for their assistance in identifying those who are the best fit for this unique and tremendously rewarding university experience.  

    One of my favorite events each year is inviting all Texas students who are about to embark on their journey to a service academy to my annual send-off ceremony in San Antonio. This year, more than 120 students, along with hundreds of their family members and friends from all across the state, came together to meet their fellow cadets and midshipmen before kick-starting their journey of military service. I take great joy in offering them a few words of encouragement and personally congratulating them on earning admission into some of the most selective and rigorous institutions in the country.

    Every year, I invite a keynote speaker to also address the students. The speaker offers a unique perspective to the students about the career path on which they are about to embark. This year, I was joined by my friend and the President of Texas A&M University, Gen. Mark Welsh III, who spoke about his four decades of service, including his time as the Chief of Staff of the Air Force. 

    The young leaders joining our service academies come from all walks of life across Texas—from families of many generations that have served in the military to first-generation service members. These students have excelled in their academics, ranking at the top of their classes and earning test scores well above their peers. Many have also excelled in extracurricular activities, leading as captains on their varsity team and serving as class presidents. Some have even obtained the rank of Eagle Scout, earned their pilot’s license, are active in JROTC, and are leaders in their schools and churches. But most importantly, their calling to serve our country is what brings them together.

    We also recognize the families who raised these exceptional young men and women, as they are their bedrock of support, instilling strong values and an unwavering sense of duty to serve our country.

    My father flew with the 303rd Bomb Group, 8th Air Force, known as the Hell’s Angels, based in Molesworth, England. His decades of service, including his time as a prisoner of war, taught me to deeply respect and appreciate our military and the sacrifices they make to protect our nation and make the world a safer place. 

    The send-off events I hold are especially meaningful because they take place on Memorial Day, a day of remembrance for those who gave their lives in defense of our freedom. By honoring these heroes, we uphold the values they lived and died for, and seeing a new generation of leaders answering their call to serve is inspiring.

    I am honored to host this event and am grateful to the students and families for embarking on this journey of service and for the sacrifices they will make for our freedom. May God bless our fallen heroes, their families, and our newest service members, and may He continue to bless the United States of America.

    Senator John Cornyn, a Republican from Texas, is a member of the Senate Finance, Intelligence, and Judiciary Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Vice Chairman of China addresses opening ceremony of 4th Dialogue on Inter-Civilizational Exchanges and Mutual Learning

    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

    LANZHOU, May 30 (Xinhua) — Chinese Vice President Han Zheng has called for eliminating disunity and misunderstanding through dialogue and communication to promote harmonious coexistence among different civilizations.

    Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 4th Dialogue on Exchanges and Mutual Learning among Civilizations in Dunhuang, northwest China’s Gansu Province, on Friday, Han Zheng said exchanges and mutual learning among different civilizations have injected strong impetus into the progress of human civilization and peaceful development throughout the world.

    “We should show mutual respect and promote mutual success, jointly advocate for respect for the diversity of world civilizations, promote each civilization to preserve its unique beauty, and all civilizations to create harmonious diversity together,” Han Zheng said.

    The Vice Chairman of the PRC pointed out that Chinese-style modernization, as a new form of development of human civilization and mutually enriching with other civilizations, brings unique wisdom to the development of world civilizations.

    China will firmly stand on the right side of history and on the side of human progress, adhere to multilateralism with other countries, actively implement the Global Civilization Initiative, and advance in-depth and practical cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative, Han added.

    The dialogue is attended by about 400 people, including political leaders, scientists, heads of international and non-governmental organizations from different countries.

    Delegates unanimously noted that China brings stability and certainty to the world through its own development. The global initiatives put forward by China, including the Global Civilization Initiative, not only promote mutual understanding and mutual learning among different civilizations, but also lay a solid foundation for building a new type of international order based on harmonious coexistence and mutually beneficial cooperation among all countries, the participants in the dialogue said. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Beijing hosts conference to mark 120th anniversary of American journalist E. Snow’s birth

    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, May 30 (Xinhua) — A conference dedicated to the 120th anniversary of the birth of American journalist Edgar Snow was held at Peking University on Friday.

    E. Snow was born in 1905 to an ordinary farming family in Missouri. In 1936, when China was engulfed in internal conflict and faced foreign aggression, E. Snow traveled to the remote headquarters of the Communist Party of China (CPC) in Shaanxi Province (Northwest China), where he conducted extensive interviews with top party leaders, including the late Chinese leader Mao Zedong.

    Snow’s own reporting resulted in Red Star Over China, published a year later. It provided not only the West but also China itself with a rare and authentic account of the Chinese Red Army, its leadership, and its unwavering commitment to improving the lives of the Chinese people.

    After the founding of the People’s Republic of China, E. Snow visited China three times and was warmly received by its top leaders. After his visits, he never ceased to worry about China, firmly supported the just cause of the Chinese people, and actively promoted the development of friendly relations between the PRC and the United States.

    Speaking at the opening ceremony of the conference, Fu Hua, director general of Xinhua News Agency, said that Snow was a sincere friend of the Chinese people, an envoy of China-US relations and a respected journalist.

    “Through his cross-border and cross-cultural journalism practice, E. Snow has provided the world with an accurate, multi-dimensional and comprehensive picture of China,” Fu Hua said.

    “The values embedded in Snow’s work—honesty, curiosity, courage in the face of political pressure—are values that need to be affirmed, renewed, even strengthened, to truly honor his memory,” said Samuel Colin MacLean, a relative of Snow and a fellow at Harvard’s Fairbank Center for China Studies.

    “E. Snow believed that only honest, unvarnished and uncensored communication could bridge the gap between our countries and prevent unnecessary conflicts,” noted S.K. MacLean.

    This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. In this regard, Sun Hua, director of the Edgar Snow China Research Center at Peking University, noted that “Red Star Over China” played a key role in popularizing the CPC’s idea of forming a united front against Japanese aggression.

    Sun Hua explained that as a result of Snow’s work, teams of U.S. representatives, including military observers, went to northern Shaanxi to support China’s anti-fascist efforts. “Snow’s book not only helped unite the Chinese people, but also played an important role in mobilizing international support, including assistance from the United States and Britain,” he said.

    “Let us pass on the spirit of E. Snow from generation to generation, overcoming not only geographical distances but also ideological differences, promoting cultural and humanitarian exchanges and mutual learning between different countries and regions,” Fu Hua said.

    The event, jointly organized by Peking University and the Xinhua Research Institute, was attended by relatives and close friends of E. Snow, as well as experienced journalists and experts in E. Snow studies and international communications.

    During the event, guests discussed how China can focus on building a more effective international communications system, and thematic sub-forums discussed topics such as “Introducing the Real China to the World” and “Training Personnel and the Legacy of E. Snow’s Spirit.” –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Hamas says it is consulting with Palestinian factions over US proposal for Gaza ceasefire

    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

    GAZA, May 30 (Xinhua) — The Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) said on Friday that it is currently consulting with Palestinian forces and factions on the Gaza ceasefire proposal put forward by U.S. Special Envoy for the Middle East Steven Witkoff.

    A source within the movement said on condition of anonymity that the consultations were intended to examine the details of the initiative and ensure that it was in line with Palestinian interests before a final position was taken.

    Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday that his government accepts Witkoff’s proposal, according to Israeli state television Kan.

    As reported by Kan, citing a senior Israeli official, the proposal includes a 60-day ceasefire in the Gaza Strip in exchange for the release of 10 live hostages and the handover of 18 bodies in two stages. Israel, in turn, must release 1,236 Palestinian prisoners and hand over the bodies of 180 dead Palestinians. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: A model for infrastructure resilience: Lessons from Bhutan, Chile, Costa Rica, Madagascar and Tonga

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Modelled costs indicate that global annual average losses to infrastructure exceed $700 billion, with lower-income countries 1disproportionately affected. These losses frequently erase development gains, undermining long-term progress.

    Strengthening the resilience of infrastructure is essential to achieving the objectives of the Sendai Framework-particularly Target D-and the Sustainable Development Goals. Societies depend on the continuous, effective functioning of infrastructure to deliver public services, improve living conditions and support economic development.

    Yet, further action is needed to ensure that at least critical infrastructure-and ideally all infrastructure-is resilient to risks, adaptable to shocks such as climate change, and sustainable over time.

    To support countries in advancing infrastructure resilience, the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), in partnership with the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), has developed an innovative approach, rolled out in about 10 countries over the past two years.

    Key impacts

    Through this initiative, UNDRR has enabled countries to:

    1. Identify gaps in institutional arrangements and regulatory frameworks across sectors such as transport, energy, water and telecommunications.
    2. Stress test and analyze vulnerabilities in infrastructure systems, including through the use of satellite imagery and other geo-localized data.
    3. Benchmark national infrastructure practices against international references such as the Principles for Resilient Infrastructure.
    4. Develop national roadmaps that incorporate resilience throughout the infrastructure lifecycle-from planning to construction and operation.

    This process strengthens governance mechanisms by convening infrastructure stakeholders across sectors to use data and risk analytics for informed decision-making on resilient infrastructure.

    Country examples

    • Tonga: Following a detailed assessment of the water sector, the government is now building the capacity of village water committees to prepare emergency plans, improve water security, and establish monitoring systems for groundwater levels to safeguard freshwater resources.
    • Chile: Stress testing by UNDRR has led SENAPRED-the national disaster prevention and response agency-to recognize water scarcity and drought as critical emerging risks and to enhance institutional capacity to address them.
    • Bhutan: Support from UNDRR and CDRI has contributed to strategic resilience measures being incorporated into sectoral action plans aligned with the 13th Five-Year Strategic Plan, embedding resilience within national infrastructure policy.
    • Madagascar: After identifying regulatory gaps in energy and telecommunications sectors, the government is reviewing its frameworks and considering new resilience standards.
    • Costa Rica and Panama: In Costa Rica, collaboration with UNDRR has resulted in the development of a data platform to inform infrastructure investments. In Panama, the government is revising procurement processes and planning the establishment of an infrastructure resilience commission.

    Lessons learned for replication and adaptation

    1. Enhance cross-sectoral collaboration: Infrastructure resilience requires integrated governance across sectors to manage interdependencies and cascading risks. This includes establishing inter-agency platforms, as seen in Madagascar and Panama.
    2. Engage stakeholders: Effective resilience-building necessitates the involvement of private sector and civil society actors alongside public institutions.
    3. Foster partnerships and knowledge exchange: National DRR strategies should promote collaboration with technical partners, including UNDRR, to leverage expertise and innovation.
    4. Prioritise resilience in DRR strategies: Resilient infrastructure should be a core component of national DRR strategies across water, energy, transport and telecommunications sectors.
    5. Align with national development planning: Resilience measures should be embedded in national development plans, as exemplified by Bhutan’s five-year strategy.
    6. Update regulatory and procurement frameworks: National frameworks should be revised to integrate resilience standards, ensuring effective implementation.
    7. Leverage data and tools: Develop data platforms and analytical tools to enable risk-informed planning and decision-making, as demonstrated in Costa Rica.
    8. Support local capacity: Empower local actors, such as Tonga’s village water committees, to contribute meaningfully to infrastructure resilience.
    9. Monitor progress: Establish monitoring frameworks to assess and review resilience outcomes, supporting continuous improvement in infrastructure governance.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Central America and Dominican Republic: Regional Intergovernmental Organizations strengthen national disaster risk reduction financing strategies

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) has collaborated with the Coordination Centre for the Prevention of Natural Disasters in Central America (CEPREDENAC) and the Council of Ministers of Finance of Central America, Panama and the Dominican Republic (COSEFIN) to enhance disaster risk reduction (DRR) financing across Central America and the Dominican Republic. This partnership marks the region’s initial steps towards establishing a comprehensive regional DRR financing strategy.

    In partnership with the World Bank, UNDRR convened a ministerial meeting that brought together high-level representatives from CEPREDENAC and COSEFIN. At this meeting, the two regional entities issued a joint declaration, committing to work with their Member States to improve financing for DRR.

    Ministers of Finance and DRR authorities reaffirmed their “regional commitment to promote resilient and sustainable public investment, ensuring alignment with regional DRR guidelines and the search for innovative and sustainable financing mechanisms.” This led to the establishment of a technical support group-comprising CEPREDENAC, COSEFIN, the World Bank, and UNDRR-tasked with developing a regional DRR financing strategy designed to complement and strengthen existing national strategies.

    By shaping regional policy and encouraging intergovernmental collaboration, UNDRR and its partners have generated momentum for innovative financing approaches to resilience, thus contributing to enhanced protection for communities throughout the region. The Minister of Finance of Costa Rica, Mr. Nogui Acosta, remarked, “The impacts on one country affect all others, so we should address these issues at a regional level.” He further emphasized the importance of prospective planning and tailored budgetary approaches to facilitate efficient resource use and risk reduction at national level.

    Key Impacts

    • Strengthening national-regional alignment: The regional commitment – spearheaded by CEPREDENAC, COSEFIN and UNDRR, provides a framework for national governments to align their DRR financing mechanisms with regional guidelines, promoting consistency and coherence across DRR investment strategies.
    • Influencing policy and mobilizing resources: By involving Ministries of Finance alongside DRR authorities, the initiative strengthens the integration of DRR into national public investment planning and budgeting, a cornerstone of effective DRR governance.
    • Supporting national DRR implementation: The emerging regional DRR financing strategy is intended to bolster national DRR strategies, facilitating implementation of commitments under the Sendai Framework, particularly Priority 2 (strengthening disaster risk governance) and Priority 3 (investing in DRR).
    • Enhancing institutional coordination and technical support: The technical support group, involving regional IGOs and global partners, fosters multi-level institutional collaboration and provides sustained technical assistance to national DRR governance structures.
    • Promoting whole-of-government approaches: By framing DRR financing as a cross-sectoral issue of fiscal governance, the initiative integrates DRR into broader national development planning and central government portfolios, thereby encouraging broader institutional engagement and implementation.
    • Elevating DRR financing as a regional-to-local priority: This initiative represents a shift from reactive disaster response to systemic, finance-driven disaster risk governance, highlighting the need for dedicated financing pathways and institutional collaboration across sectors and all levels of government.

    Lessons learned for replication and adaptation

    1. Integrate DRR into national financial planning: Engaging both DRR authorities and Ministries of Finance ensures that DRR is embedded in national budgeting and public investment systems, moving beyond siloed emergency responses.
    2. Leverage regional IGOs to reinforce national action: Regional bodies can catalyse national commitments by promoting shared policy frameworks and facilitating peer learning. In some contexts, their influence may be strengthened through legally binding DRR frameworks (e.g. ASEAN).
    3. Formalize political commitments: Ministerial declarations and joint statements can solidify intent, mandate follow-up actions and foster political momentum for sustained DRR engagement.
    4. Establish technical support mechanisms: Creating regional working groups that include global partners facilitates continuous follow-up and helps countries translate commitments into actionable strategies.
    5. Align with existing frameworks to enhance ownership: Building on national and regional DRR strategies avoids duplication, increases relevance, and supports long-term sustainability and legitimacy.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Gliding to victory: How Special Olympics is using Copilot to empower its organization and athletes

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Gliding to victory: How Special Olympics is using Copilot to empower its organization and athletes

    Leaving it on the ice

    One by one, the athletes skated their routines to boisterous applause. And, one by one, the medal results rolled in.

    Beth Allen: Silver medal!
    Cody Wheatley: Gold medal!
    Deeb Habchi: Gold medal!
    Cori Piels: Bronze medal!

    As soon as she hit the ice, Cori instinctively felt she was going to crush it. “Right away, I knew that this was it—my dream coming true,” she says. Cori’s mom, Karalee, also felt the full-circle significance of it all. “To see her work for 20 years and achieve everything she wanted—from perfecting her routine to designing her dress—I don’t think I’ve ever been so emotional in my life.”

    By giving it their all, Beth, Cody, Deeb, and Cori proved what’s possible when everyone gets a fair shot. That with hard work, ambition, and the right support, no dream is too big. Heidi believes tools like Copilot will continue to amplify this potential. As she puts it: “I believe the partnership between Microsoft and Special Olympics has really married two worlds that will enrich and enhance any athlete’s life, from everyday activities to training in their specific sports. Copilot is for everyone.”

    Donate points to support Special Olympics.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Cuellar Responds to Laredo Job Corps Pause

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

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
     Thursday, May 29, 2025

    Fernanda Nunez-Cazares, District Press Secretary
    fernanda.nunez-cazares@mail.house.gov
     Cell: (619) 209-1834

    Matthew Landini, DC Press Secretary
    matt@mail.house.gov
     Cell: (216) 952-8227

     Today, U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) issued the following statement in response to the U.S. Department of Labor’s announcement of a phased “pause” in operations at contractor-operated Job Corps Centers, including the center located in Laredo:

    “The Department of Labor’s decision to shutter contractor-operated Job Corps Centers – including ours in Laredo – is disappointing and was made without consultation from Congress. Sending students home in the middle of their training is not only disruptive, but it’s wrong.

    “Let me be clear: this is not a decision for the Department to make on its own. Congress created Job Corps, and Congress must be involved in determining its future.”

    The Laredo Job Corps Center currently serves approximately 220 students and employs nearly 200 staff. It offers education, job training, and career readiness services in fields such as culinary arts, welding, facility maintenance, security and protective services, certified nurse assistant, and advanced career training. The campus also provides opportunities for students to earn a high school diploma or equivalent, participate in English language learning, and engage in off-site internships – with 40 students currently placed. The department’s decision will not only disrupt students and families, but it will also cut off access to critical opportunities for young people across South Texas.

    El Rep. Cuéllar Responde a la Pausa de Laredo Job Corps

    Washington, D.C. – Hoy, el Congresista de los Estados Unidos Henry Cuellar (TX-28) emitió la siguiente declaración en respuesta al anuncio del Departamento de Trabajo de los Estados Unidos de una “pausa” gradual en las operaciones de los Centros Job Corps operados por contratistas, incluyendo el centro ubicado en Laredo:

    “La decisión del Departamento de Trabajo de cerrar los centros Job Corps gestionados por contratistas, incluido el nuestro de Laredo, es decepcionante y se tomó sin consultar al Congreso. Mandar a los estudiantes a casa en medio de su entrenamiento no sólo es disruptivo, sino que es incorrecto.”

    “Quiero ser claro: no es una decisión que deba tomar el Departamento solo. El Congreso creó Job Corps, y el Congreso debe participar en la determinación de su futuro.”

    El Centro Job Corps de Laredo atiende actualmente a unos 220 estudiantes y emplea a casi 200 trabajadores. Ofrece educación, formación laboral y servicios de preparación profesional en campos como artes culinarias, soldadura, mantenimiento de instalaciones, servicios de seguridad y protección, auxiliar de enfermería certificado y formación profesional avanzada. El campus también ofrece a los estudiantes la oportunidad de obtener un diploma de enseñanza secundaria o equivalente, participar en cursos de inglés y realizar prácticas fuera de las instalaciones, con 40 estudiantes en la actualidad. La decisión del departamento no sólo perturbará a los estudiantes y a sus familias, sino que también cortará el acceso a oportunidades fundamentales para los jóvenes de todo el sur de Texas.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs Signs Agreement with Coquille Indian Tribe to Assist Tribal Veterans

    Source: US State of Oregon

    he Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs signed a formal agreement with the Coquille Indian Tribe last week that will provide a framework for collaboration and increased resources dedicated to supporting the Tribe’s veterans in accessing their earned federal and state veterans’ benefits.

    The Memorandum of Understanding was signed Tuesday, May 13, by ODVA Director Dr. Nakeia Council Daniels and Tribal Council Vice Chair Jen Procter Andrews, with Tribal government leaders and representatives, Tribal veterans and ODVA staff gathered to commemorate the historic partnership.

    The formal signing was hosted on the Tribe’s sovereign land in North Bend in a ceremony that honored both the significance of the partnership and the traditions of the Coquille Indian Tribe.

    The agreement will pave the way for the establishment of the Coquille Indian Tribe’s first Tribal Veterans Service Officer (TVSO), which will be jointly funded by ODVA and the Coquille Indian Tribe to serve Tribal veterans and their families.

    “Tribal Veteran Service Officers play a vital role in ensuring Oregon’s Tribal veterans are seen, heard, and supported — not only as veterans, but as members of sovereign nations with deep cultural roots and histories,” said Dr. Daniels.

    “This agreement marks a meaningful step forward, creating space for trusted advocates who understand both the federal VA system and the unique needs of their communities. Today isn’t just about a signature — it’s about the shared commitment we’re building together to honor and serve all who have worn the uniform, and we’re proud to mark that step forward in a way that reflects the meaning of ceremony for the Coquille Indian Tribe.”

    “Native Americans continue to serve at a higher rate than any other ethnic group and have enlisted to protect their lands as far back as the Revolutionary War,” said Vice Chair Procter Andrews. “This partnership shows Oregon’s dedication to ensure that our veterans receive the benefits and respect they deserve, in a way that works for them. We hope this partnership is the first step towards a better relationship with the state and increased services for our vets!”

    This Memorandum of Understanding is ODVA’s fifth with Oregon’s nine federally recognized Tribes, including the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde and the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians.

    Oregon’s statewide network of County and Tribal Veteran Service Offices are collaborative partnerships between the state and counties or Tribal governments to provide free, local expertise and assistance to veterans and their families in accessing their earned benefits.

    Tribal Veteran Service Officers (TVSOs) are trained by ODVA and then accredited by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs. TVSOs assist veterans and their families with access to a wide variety of benefits and services that were earned through military service.

    To learn more about veteran benefits, resources and services near you, or to schedule an appointment with your local Veteran Service Officer, visit the website of the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs at www.oregon.gov/odva/Services/Pages/Tribal-Veteran-Services.aspx.

    About the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs

    Established in 1945, the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs is dedicated to serving Oregon’s diverse veteran community that spans five eras of service members. ODVA administers programs and provides special advocacy and assistance in accessing earned veteran benefits across the state. Learn about veteran benefits and services, or locate a local county or tribal veteran service office online at oregon.gov/odva.

    About the Coquille Indian Tribe

    The Coquille Indian Tribe flourished in Oregon’s southwestern corner for thousands of years, cherishing the bountiful forests, rivers and beaches of a homeland encompassing more than 750,000 acres. In 1954, Congress declared the Coquille Tribe “terminated.” 35 years later the Tribe was formally restored to federal recognition in 1989. Today the Tribe numbers more than 1,200 members and it has regained more than 10,000 acres of ancestral homeland, proudly managing the bulk of it as sustainable forest. The Tribe provides education assistance, health care, elder services and (where needed) housing assistance to its people, while contributing substantially to the surrounding community’s economy. Its various enterprises employ approximately 1000 people, and its community fund is the region’s leading local source of charitable grants. For more about the Coquille Indian Tribe, visit coquilletribe.org.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Music Amid the Rubble: A Gazan Musician Plants Seeds of Hope | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    In Al-Jundi Al-Majhool Square – the once-throbbing heart of Gaza City, where national celebrations were held and flags proudly raised – music teacher Ahmed Abu Amsha now resides with his family in a tattered tent, after more than 19 months of displacement due to war.

    Abu Amsha founded a musical group called “GPS” (Gaza’s Peaceful Sounds), made up of displaced children with musical talents.

    Inside the camp, children and youth gather to play a variety of instruments under the tents—a surreal sight in a war-torn zone. Despite the complete lack of basic necessities

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K3zP5mkm7_8

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UN Chief commemorates fallen peacekeepers | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    The United Nations observed the 77th International Day of UN Peacekeepers, honouring their service and sacrifice. Since 1948, over 2 million peacekeepers have served in 71 operations. Over 4,400 peacekeepers have fallen in the line of duty, including 57 in 2024.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ad68DdOm_tw

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: The Arab Group on Palestine – Security Council Media Stakeout | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Comments to the media by Mohamed Abushahab, Permanent Representative of The United Arab Emirates to the United Nations and Chair of the Arab Group, on behalf of Permanent Representatives of the Arab Group, on the developments in dealing with the Palestinian issue (situation in Gaza) in the Security Council and the General Assembly.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=78r87LdCbvU

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: The Week at State – new visa policies, Memorial Day, Syria and Venezuela Updates

    Source: United States of America – Department of State (video statements)

    This week at State:
    – Secretary Rubio announces new visa policies that put America first
    – We recognize the sacrifice of our Nation’s fallen heroes on Memorial Day
    – Ambassador Thomas Barrack is now Presiden Trump’s Special Envoy to Syria
    – We warn U.S. citizens to not travel to Venezuela for any reason

    ———-
    Under the leadership of the President and Secretary of State, the U.S. Department of State leads America’s foreign policy through diplomacy, advocacy, and assistance by advancing the interests of the American people, their safety and economic prosperity. On behalf of the American people we promote and demonstrate democratic values and advance a free, peaceful, and prosperous world.

    The Secretary of State, appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate, is the President’s chief foreign affairs adviser. The Secretary carries out the President’s foreign policies through the State Department, which includes the Foreign Service, Civil Service and U.S. Agency for International Development.

    Get updates from the U.S. Department of State at www.state.gov and on social media!
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/statedept
    X: https://x.com/StateDept
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/statedept
    Flickr: https://flickr.com/photos/statephotos/
    Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/StateDept
    Substack: https://statedept.substack.com

    Watch on-demand State Department videos: https://video.state.gov/
    Subscribe to The Week at State e-newsletter: https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USSTATEBPA/signup/32562

    State Department website: https://www.state.gov/
    Careers website: https://careers.state.gov/
    White House website: https://www.whitehouse.gov/
    Terms of Use: https://state.gov/tou

    #StateDepartment #DepartmentofState #Diplomacy

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rYMk1VioDeY

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary Wright Joins Fox Business’ Maria Bartiromo – May 30, 2025

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

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6NsQkozTgKc

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Inside Interior | May 30, 2025

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

    From the ground to the grid, and coast to coast — American Energy is on the Rise.

    Under President Trump’s leadership, the Department of the Interior is fueling American Energy Dominance.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yb1TclRTKjk

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Foreign Nationals Indicted for Plot to Silence U.S. Dissident and Smuggle U.S. Military Technology to China

    Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division

    Defendants Charged in Los Angeles and Milwaukee with Interstate Stalking, Arms Export Violations, and Smuggling

    Federal grand juries in Milwaukee and Los Angeles each returned indictments charging two foreign nationals, Cui Guanghai, 43, of China, and John Miller, 63, of the United Kingdom and a U.S. lawful permanent resident, with interstate stalking and conspiracy to commit interstate stalking (Los Angeles) and conspiracy, smuggling, and violations of the Arms Export Control Act (Milwaukee).

    “As alleged, the defendants targeted a U.S. resident for exercising his constitutional right to free speech and conspired to traffic sensitive American military technology to the Chinese regime,” said Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche. “This is a blatant assault on both our national security and our democratic values. This Justice Department will not tolerate foreign repression on U.S. soil, nor will we allow hostile nations to infiltrate or exploit our defense systems. We will act decisively to expose and dismantle these threats wherever they emerge.”

    “The defendants allegedly plotted to harass and interfere with an individual who criticized the actions of the People’s Republic of China while exercising their constitutionally protected free speech rights within the United States of America,” said FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino. “The same individuals also are charged with trying to obtain and export sensitive U.S. military technology to China. I want to commend the good work of the FBI and our partners in the U.S and overseas in putting a stop to these illegal activities.”

    Allegations in the Central District of California

    According to court documents, beginning in October 2023, Cui and Miller enlisted two individuals (Individual 1 and Individual 2) inside the United States to carry out a plot to prevent the Victim from protesting President Xi’s appearance at the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in November 2023. The victim had previously made public statements in opposition to the policies and actions of the PRC government and President Xi.

    “The indictment alleges that Chinese foreign actors targeted a victim in our nation because he criticized the Chinese government and its president,” said U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli for the Central District of California. “My office will continue to use all legal methods available to hold accountable foreign nationals engaging in criminal activity on our soil.”

    Unbeknownst to Cui and Miller, Individual 1 and Individual 2 were affiliated with and acting at the direction of the FBI.

    In the weeks leading up to the APEC summit, Cui and Miller directed and coordinated an interstate scheme to surveil the victim, to install a tracking device on the victim’s car, to slash the tires on the victim’s car, and to purchase and destroy a pair of artistic statues created by the victim depicting President Xi and President Xi’s wife.

    A similar scheme took place in the spring of 2025, after the victim announced that he planned to make public an online video feed depicting two new artistic statues of President Xi and his wife. In connection with these plots, Cui and Miller paid two other individuals (Individual 3 and Individual 4), approximately $36,500 to convince the victim to desist from the online display of the statues. Unbeknownst to Cui and Miller, Individual 3 and Individual 4 were also affiliated with and acting at the direction of the FBI.

    Allegations in the Eastern District of Wisconsin

    According to court documents, beginning in November 2023, Miller and Cui solicited the procurement of U.S. defense articles, including missiles, air defense radar, drones, and cryptographic devices with associated crypto ignition keys for unlawful export from the United States to the People’s Republic of China from two individuals (Individual 5 and Individual 6).  

    In connection with the scheme, Cui and Miller discussed with Individuals 5 and 6 ways to export a cryptographic device from the United States to the People’s Republic of China, including concealing the device in a blender, small electronics, or motor starter, and shipping the device first to Hong Kong. Cui and Miller paid approximately $10,000 as a deposit for the cryptographic device via a courier in the United States and a wire transfer to a U.S. bank account.

    ***

    If convicted, Cui and Miller face the following maximum penalties: five years in prison for conspiracy; five years in prison for interstate stalking; 20 years in prison for violation of the Arms Export Control Act; and 10 years in prison for smuggling.

    The FBI is investigating the case. The United States is coordinating with Serbian authorities regarding the pending extraditions of Cui and Miller from Serbia.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys David Ryan and Amanda B. Elbogen for the Central District of California, Benjamin Taibleson for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, and Trial Attorneys Leslie Esbrook and Menno Goedman of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the cases, with valuable assistance provided by the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs.

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

    MIL Security OSI –