NewzIntel.com

Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Over 50,000 free school meals served to pupils as part of York Hungry Minds campaign

    Source: City of York

    Over 50,000 free school meals have been served to children in York as part of the city’s York Hungry Minds campaign since it started in 2024.

    York Community Fund’s York Hungry Minds Appeal was set up in a bid to address disadvantage and the impact of the cost of living crisis, responding to national evidence suggesting that providing children with healthy, nourishing food can make a significant difference to school attendance, concentration and learning and their physical and mental wellbeing.

    Westfield Primary Community School pupils were the first school to benefit from the free school meals in January 2024, with Burton Green Primary School pupils receiving free breakfasts later that month and Fishergate Primary School joining the pilot in March 2025.

    Around 50 children now attend the free breakfast sessions at Burton Green every day, with school staff reporting a significant improvement in pupils’ attendance and punctuality as a result of the breakfast offer.

    Ash McGann, Principal at the school said:

    “There is a family atmosphere [at the breakfast club] where older children play games with younger children. Children are more focussed and motivated as they have eaten a nutritious meal and also had time with their friends before the structure of lessons.”

    Cllr Bob Webb, the council’s Executive Member for Children, Young People and Education, said:

    “There is a wealth of national evidence supporting the positive impact of universal free school meals and it is so heartening to hear about the impact the pilots are having for school pupils in York.

    “Universal Free School Meals are about so much more than food, as the breakfast offer at Burton Green Primary School is showing. Ensuring that children are well fed with healthy, nutritious food, helps children to attend school regularly and concentrate fully in their lessons, which will support their learning and success in school as they grow up.”

    Cllr Claire Douglas, Leader of City of York Council, said:

    “I am absolutely delighted that we’ve been able to provide 50,000 meals to children in York through the York Hungry Minds initiative. I’d like to thank all those involved in helping to get the universal free school meal pilots up and running, including school and education staff, city partners and the children and their families, who have helped to make the pilots such a positive part of their school day.”

    The free school meals campaign is part of the council’s wider commitment both to address affordability challenges and to ensure that  good health and wellbeing is prioritised as early as possible in residents’ lives – part of the council’s four year plan – One City for all.

    The meals have been made possible thanks to funding from the council and donations to the York Community Fund’s York Hungry Minds Appeal.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Seven year legal battle sees illegal shisha cafe forced to pay back nearly £400k

    Source: City of Manchester

    A cafe under investigation since 2018 for numerous breaches of planning law has been ordered to pay back nearly £400,000 following a failed appeal. 

    In September of 2018, Manchester City Council’s planning team issued an enforcement notice against 360 Cafe, in Wilmslow Road, under the Town and Country Planning Act 1990. 

    This was because the Council believed that the premises had illegally changed its use to operate as a shisha lounge, contrary to its original planning permission. The enforcement notice stated that changes to revert the business back to its original purpose had to be completed by December 1 of 2018. 

    Over the intervening two years, between July 2019 and October 2021 the Council attempted on numerous occasions to resolve the issues with the building’s Owners – Cameolord Limited – however, on two occasions the Council, working with officers from HMRC and GMP visited the premises to seize shisha pipes, tobacco and other smoking paraphernalia. 

    In spite of frequent attempts to resolve this issue the Council was forced to take legal action. Working alongside financial investigators at Salford Council, the result was Cameolord being found guilty in absentia at a hearing held at Manchester Magistrates’ Court on March 9, 2023, for failing to comply with the enforcement notice. However, an appeal was lodged against this conviction in September of 2023. 

    But at an appeal hearing the original conviction was upheld and a date was set for sentencing and confiscation hearings, these proceedings concluded on Wednesday, July 16, 2025. 

    Sitting at Manchester Crown Court, His Honour Judge Peter Horgan found the actions of the business to have been “persistent and brazen” as it had continued to access their regular rental payments over the course of the offence period, amounting to £321,433.62. 

    Taking into account the change in the value of money over the period of offending, he concluded that the overall benefit figure from the criminal activity was £383,316.40 and ordered a Confiscation Order in that amount under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002. 

    The company was also ordered to pay a fine of £35,000 for the offences and prosecution costs of £23,500 were also awarded. The Defendant was given the maximum period of 3 months to pay these sums.  

    Previously, Mohammad Bashir, 68, of Upper Park Road, Manchester and a Director of the company Cameolord Ltd, pled guilty to an offence under the Town and Planning Act 1990 in March 2023, relating to his failure to resolve the breach; he was ordered to pay a £10,000 fine as well as £1,000 in costs and a £170 victims’ surcharge. 

    Councillor Gavin White, Executive Member for Housing and Development, said: “Nearly seven years after the Council first began proceedings against this business we can finally close the book on this long-running saga. 

    “What could have been a straightforward decision to obey the law and comply with the Council’s reasonable request to comply has now cost this business dearly, with hundreds of thousands of pounds being forfeit, as well as a hefty financial penalty for the director. 

    “Planning law is in place for very good reasons. It protects our community from illegal developments and ensures that businesses cannot chop and change based on a mere whim. I would like to place on record my thanks to our planning and legal team for their hard work and determination to see justice carried out.”  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman David Scott Leads Georgia Delegation Demanding Trump Admin Reverse Termination of Digital Equity Grants

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman David Scott (GA-13)

    WASHINGTON D.C. – Today, Congressman David Scott (GA-13) led members of the Georgia Delegation in sending a letter to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Acting Administrator of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), Adam Cassady, opposing the abrupt and illegal termination of State Digital Equity Capacity Grants and Digital Equity Competitive Grants. The letter also demands the immediate disbursement of grant awards and approval of all pending grant applications.

    “The decision to unilaterally terminate funding for broadband services is both illegal and morally wrong,” said Congressman David Scott. “Communities across Georgia count on the Digital Equity Grant Program to gain affordable internet, gain access basic digital tools for telehealth services, education, and job opportunities. Characterization of this vital lifeline as a “woke handout based on race” only proves that the administration has failed to comprehend the goal of the programs or who benefits from its funding. In reality, termination of this grant program will disproportionately harm working-class families, veterans, the elderly, and rural Georgians. The Trump Administration has no right to ignore the law by recklessly and indiscriminately canceling funding opportunities for our communities.”

    Digital equity grants were originally included in the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). The law allocated $2.75 billion to help underserved communities access affordable high-speed internet. The funding was designed to close the digital divide for veterans, seniors, rural communities, low-income families, incarcerated individuals, people with disabilities, and others.

    Despite being funded by Congress, the Trump Admin unilaterally halted the program in May, falsely labeling it as “unconstitutional” and a “woke handout.” This is a continuation of President Trump’s repeated efforts to illegally terminate funding passed by Congress. It effectively froze already approved grants and ended the review of hundreds of competitive applications, including a $9.9 million application from Clayton County’s Department of Information Technology.

    In the letter, Rep. David Scott led Georgia’s Democratic House lawmakers in urging Secretary Lutnick and Acting Administrator Cassady:

    • Restore digital equity grant funding already awarded
    • Resume Reviewing applications for the Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program
    • Recognize the immense benefits these investments provide, including job readiness training, access to online healthcare, digital literacy programs, and educational resources.

    View a copy of the letter HERE.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Carter, Bera Introduce Bill to Strengthen Palliative and Hospice Care Workforce

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Earl L Buddy Carter (GA-01)

    Headline: Carter, Bera Introduce Bill to Strengthen Palliative and Hospice Care Workforce

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Reps. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) and Ami Bera, M.D. (D-CA) today introduced the Palliative Care and Hospice Education and Training Act (PCHETA), bipartisan legislation to invest in training, education, and research for the palliative care and hospice workforce, allowing more practitioners to enter these in-demand fields. 

    Palliative and hospice care focus on providing comfort and quality of life improvements for those seriously ill, extending quality of life and reducing the length of hospital stays for many patients.

    “Caring for someone living with serious illness or at the end of their life is one of the most compassionate, selfless things one can do, and we must ensure that these heroes have the assistance, training, education, and tools available to provide the highest quality care possible. As a pharmacist, I understand the toll burnout takes on the health care industry, and I am committed to bolstering the workforce so nurses, doctors, and all health care workers can continue to pursue their passion for helping others,” said Rep. Carter.

    “As a doctor, I know how important it is to provide patients with comfort, clarity, and support when they’re facing serious illness,” said Rep. Bera. “The Palliative Care and Hospice Education and Training Act is a smart, bipartisan step to ensure more health care professionals are trained to deliver this kind of care. By expanding training programs and strengthening our health care workforce, we will make sure that patients and families have access to the care they need to manage pain, make informed decisions, and live with dignity.”

    In 2001, just 7% of U.S. hospitals with more than 50 beds had a palliative care program, compared with 72% in 2019. Those working in the field, 40% of whom are 56 years of age or older, report high rates of burnout, in response to the increasing number of patients requiring treatment. 

    Reps. Carter and Bera’s bill, which has a Senate companion led by Senators Baldwin and Capito, alleviates these strains through workforce training, education and awareness, and enhanced research.

    “As we face a critical shortage of health professionals with expert knowledge and skills in palliative care, AAHPM applauds Representatives Carter and Bera for their leadership in introducing the Palliative Care and Hospice Education and Training Act to ensure all patients facing serious illness or at the end of life can receive high-quality care,” said Kristina Newport, MD FAAHPM, HMDC, Chief Medical Officer of the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine. “We urge Congress to recognize the importance of a well-trained, interprofessional healthcare team to providing coordinated, person-centered serious illness care and to act now to build a healthcare workforce more closely aligned with America’s evolving healthcare needs. Advancing PCHETA will go a long way towards improving quality of care and quality of life for our nation’s sickest and most vulnerable patients, along with their families and caregivers.”

    “Palliative care treats the whole person, not just the disease. Ensuring health care providers can be trained in this specialized, coordinated form of care and providing funding for robust public education through the Palliative Care Education and Training Act can help increase access to palliative care for cancer patients and make their cancer journey less difficult,” said Lisa A. Lacasse, president of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network. “We commend Reps. Carter and Bera for their leadership and steadfast commitment to palliative care and to improving quality of life for patients, including those impacted by cancer.”

    “Every person living with serious illness or facing the end of life deserves compassionate, expert care that honors their choices and helps them live comfortably on their own terms. The Alliance celebrates Representatives Carter and Bera’s leadership in introducing the Palliative Care and Hospice Education and Training Act, which will ensure families have access to the trained professionals they need during life’s most difficult moments. As our population ages, this critical investment in education and training will help us meet the growing demand for quality palliative and hospice care,” said Dr. Steve Landers, CEO for the National Alliance for Care at Home.

    Supporting Organizations Include: Alzheimer’s Association, Alzheimer’s Disease Resource Center, Alzheimer’s Impact Movement, American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Academy of Physician Associates, American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, American College of Surgeons, American Geriatrics Society, American Heart Association, American Psychological Association, American Psychosocial Oncology Society, The American Society of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Association for Clinical Oncology, Association of Oncology Social Work, Association of Pediatric Hematology/ Oncology Nurses, Association of Professional Chaplains, The California State University Shiley Haynes Institute for Palliative Care, Cambia Health Solutions, Cancer Support Community, CaringKind, Catholic Health Association of the United States, Center to Advance Palliative Care, Children’s National Health System, Coalition for Compassionate Care of California, Colorectal Cancer Alliance, Courageous Parents Network, The George Washington Institute for Spirituality and Health, GO2 for Lung Cancer, The HAP Foundation, HealthCare Chaplaincy Network, Hospice and Palliative Nurses Association, LEAD Coalition, LeadingAge, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Motion Picture & Television Fund, National Alliance for Care at Home, National Alliance for Caregiving, National Brain Tumor Society, National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship, National Coalition for Hospice and Palliative Care, National Comprehensive Cancer Network, National Marrow Donor Program, National Palliative Care Research Center, National Partnership for Healthcare and Hospice Innovation, National Patient Advocate Foundation, National POLST Paradigm, Oncology Nursing Society, Pediatric Palliative Care Coalition, PAs in Hospice and Palliative Medicine, Prevent Cancer Foundation, Second Wind Dreams, Social Work Hospice & Palliative Care Network, Society of Pain and Palliative Care Pharmacists, St. Baldrick’s Foundation, Supportive Care Matters, Susan G. Komen, Trinity Health, West Health Institute, The Alliance for the Advancement of End-of-Life Care, Alzheimer’s Los Angeles, Alzheimer’s Orange County, Arizona Association for Home Care, Arizona Hospice & Palliative Care Organization, Association for Home & Hospice Care of North Carolina, California Association for Health Services at Home, The Center for Optimal Aging at Marymount University, Children’s Hospice and Palliative Care Coalition, Delaware Association for Home & Community Care, Florida Hospice & Palliative Care Association, Georgia Association for Home Health Agencies, Georgia Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, Granite State Home Health & Hospice Association (NH), Healthcare Association of Hawaii, Home Care Association of Florida, Home Care Association of NYS, Home Care Association of Washington, Home Care and Hospice Association of Colorado, Homecare and Hospice Association of Utah, Hospice and Palliative Care Association of Iowa, Hospice and Palliative Care Association of New York, Hospice Care and Kentucky Home Care Association, Hospice Council of West Virginia, Hospice & Palliative Care Federation of Massachusetts, Idaho Health Care Association, Illinois Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, Indiana Association for Home, Kokua Mau, LeadingAge California, LeadingAge Georgia, LeadingAge New Jersey/Delaware, LeadingAge Ohio, LifeCircle-South Dakota’s Hospice and Palliative Care Network, Louisiana Mississippi Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, Maryland-National Capital Homecare Association, Michigan HomeCare and Hospice Association, Minnesota Network of Hospice and Palliative Care, Missouri Alliance for Home Care, Missouri Hospice & Palliative Care Association, Nebraska Association for Home Healthcare and Hospice, Nebraska Home Care Association, Ohio Council for Home Care & Hospice, Ohio Health Care Association, Oklahoma Association for Home Care and Hospice, South Carolina Home Care & Hospice Association, The Oregon Hospice & Palliative Care Association, Texas Association for Home Care & Hospice, Texas ~ New Mexico Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, Virginia Association for Home Care and Hospice, VNAs of Vermont, The Washington State Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, and West Virginia Council for Home Care and Hospice.

    Read full bill text here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Representatives Torres, Lofgren, Jacobs, and Tran Lead Entire CA Democratic Delegation in Demanding Immediate Release of $928 Million Education Funding Owed to California

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Norma Torres (35th District of California)

    July 17, 2025

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Representatives Norma Torres (CA-35), Zoe Lofgren, Chair of the California Democratic Congressional Delegation (CA-18), Sara Jacobs (CA-51), Derek Tran (CA-45), and U.S. Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff (both D-CA) led the entire California Democratic Congressional Delegation in demanding the Department of Education (ED) and Office of Management and Budget (OMB) immediately release nearly $7 billion in Congressionally-appropriated funding for K-12 schools and adult education—including $928 million owed to California.

    With the start of the new school year approaching in California, on June 30, 2025, the Trump Administration gave states just one day’s notice that these critical funds would be indefinitely frozen past their typical release on July 1. As a result, California schools are already being forced to roll back programs, lay off staff, and cut services that help students thrive.

    “These programs support some of the most vulnerable and underserved students and communities in California and have been demonstrated to have lifelong benefits to students’ educational attainment, income, and other measures of wellbeing. Each passing day that these funds are unlawfully withheld hurts our schools and students and strains already limited budgets,” said the members. “In California alone, the Trump Administration’s funding freeze is affecting hundreds of thousands of students and educators. For many of California’s school districts, this funding had already been accounted for in school budgets for the upcoming school year. Now, our schools are being forced to delay hiring and reduce resources to help students.”

    The withheld funding includes vital investments in:

    • Reducing class sizes and teacher recruitment and retention, especially in underserved areas.
    • After-school, before-school, and summer learning programs in low-income communities.
    • School-based mental health services, accelerated learning courses, STEM education, and college and career counseling.
    • Academic Support for English learners and children of migrant workers.
    • Adult education and workforce readiness programs.

    With nearly 5.8 million K-12 students in California, the illegal freezing of these Congressionally appropriated funds is already hurting our schools and students. Many school districts had already budgeted for these federal dollars, leaving them scrambling to fill massive funding gaps just weeks before the school year begins.

    “We demand that the Department of Education and the Trump Administration stop holding K-12 student funding hostage and release the nearly $7 billion in funding meant to help our students, teachers, and families, including the $928 million being unlawfully withheld from California,” the members continued. “This illegal freeze in funding is setting our students and schools up for failure. Our teachers, families, and children deserve better than the Trump Administration’s reckless upheaval and chaos.”

    Additional signers of the letter include: Reps. Pete Aguilar (CA-33); Nanette Barragán (CA-44); Ami Bera (CA-6); Julia Brownley (CA-26); Salud Carbajal (CA-24); Judy Chu (CA-28); Gilbert Cisneros (CA-31); Lou Correa (CA-46); Jim Costa (CA-21); Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10); Laura Friedman (CA-30); John Garamendi (CA-8); Robert Garcia (CA-42); Jimmy Gomez (CA-34); Adam Gray (CA-13); Josh Harder (CA-9); Jared Huffman (CA-2); Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37); Ro Khanna (CA-17); Mike Levin (CA-49); Sam Liccardo (CA-16); Ted Lieu (CA-36); Doris Matsui (CA-7); Dave Min (CA-47); Kevin Mullin (CA-15); Jimmy Panetta (CA-19); Nancy Pelosi (CA-11); Scott Peters (CA-50); Luz Rivas (CA-29); Raul Ruiz (CA-25); Linda Sánchez (CA-38); Brad Sherman (CA-32); Lateefah Simon (CA-12); Eric Swalwell (CA-14); Mark Takano (CA-39); Mike Thompson (CA-4); Juan Vargas (CA-52); Maxine Waters (CA-43); George Whitesides (CA-27).

    Link to full letter

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/MYANMAR – Nine people sentenced for the murder of the Catholic priest from Mandalay

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    RVA

    Mandalay (Agenzia Fides) – Nine people accused of the murder of Catholic priest Fr. Donald Martin Ye Naing Win, who was killed on February 14, 2025, have been sentenced to 20 years in prison by a court linked to the Ministry of Justice of the National Unity Government (NUG), the government in exile that leads the Burmese opposition. The 44-year-old priest, belonging to the Archdiocese of Mandalay, was killed by gunmen on the grounds of Our Lady of Lourdes Church, in the Shwe Bo district, in the Sagaing region (see Fides, 15/2/2025).According to initial investigations, the killers were part of local armed groups linked to the People’s Defense Forces (PDF), the Burmese resistance forces that control the so-called “liberated zones” that have been taken away from the control of the Burmese military junta. The PDF are subordinate to the National Unity Government (NUG) in exile, which includes numerous members of the Parliament overthrown by the military junta after the February 2021 coup.Local sources have confirmed to Fides that it was the People’s Defense Forces themselves who tracked down and arrested the attackers. “In a way, the PDF themselves tried to bring the armed men to justice, who, in the current situation of widespread instability, are out of control. However, the reasons for the murder are still unclear,” our sources note. “We know that Father Donald was a man of God, a parish priest dedicated to the people, a good and sincere person who was committed, above all, to the education of children left without school due to the civil war. He had done nothing wrong,” says Father John, a priest in Mandalay. The local Catholic community is moderately satisfied with this sentence, as justice was expected, although “there are still too many unanswered questions. The family would also like more clarity and full justice,” the priest emphasizes.The ruling by the informal court linked to the NUG was possible because in the Sagaing region, affected by clashes between the Burmese army and resistance forces, the state system has collapsed, giving way to the creation of a “parallel state” by the resistance. Although there is no fully defined legal framework, courts operate in the liberated areas with district judges who hold trials based on laws enacted or amended by the army in recent years and international human rights standards. Currently, in these areas, district judges also have the authority to impose the death penalty. (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 17/7/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/CHINA – Rite of Admission: Deacons of Ningbo respond to the Lord’s call with faith and charity

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Ningbo (Agenzia Fides) – The liturgical rite of admission of candidates to the priesthood is not only a celebration of the diocese, but also an opportunity of witness to young people. Thus, the Diocese of Ningbo decided to celebrate two separate solemn liturgies for admission, both presided over by Bishop Francis Xavier Jin Yangke. The two liturgies were celebrated on Thursday, July 11th and Monday, July 14th. During the rite, four diocesan deacons responded to the Lord’s call to the priesthood with faith and charity before their bishop, receiving the faculty to exercise the ministries of acolyte and lector.In his homily, Bishop Jin emphasized that “the ministry of reading the Word consists not only in reciting the Word, but also in being witness to the Word. The acolyte invites seminarians to learn humility and fidelity in serving the altar and their brothers.” Furthermore, the Bishop encouraged the deacons to prepare themselves to exercise the diaconal and priestly ministry with pastoral care when they receive their diaconal and priestly ordination, according to the Lord’s will.”Vocation,” the Bishop of Ningbo insisted, “is not a journey one undertakes alone. There is always a need for dialogue between the soul of the person and the Lord.” The Bishop also invited each baptized person and the entire community to accompany and support the future deacons and priests on their journey, sharing with them their joys, responsibilities, and even difficulties.Many young people from the diocese also took part in the two liturgies. This was a comforting sign for the entire diocesan community, in the hope—as one parish priest emphasized—that even in these circumstances, the seed of new vocations may silently fall in the hearts of many. (NZ) (Agenzia Fides, 17/7/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EU agencies help shut down major hacktivist group

    Source: European Union 2

    NoName057(16) has professed support for the Russian Federation since the start of the war of aggression against Ukraine. Since the start of the war, it has executed multiple DDoS attacks against critical infrastructure during high-level (political) events. The group has also exhibited anti-NATO and anti-U.S. sentiment. During a DDoS attack, a website or online service is flooded with traffic, overloading its capacity and thus making it unavailable. The hacktivist group has executed 14 attacks in Germany, some of them lasting multiple days and affecting around 230 organisations including arms factories, power suppliers and government organisations. Attacks were also executed across Europe during the European elections. In Sweden, authorities and bank websites were targeted, while in Switzerland multiple attacks were carried out during a video message given by the Ukrainian President to the Joint Parliament in June 2023, and during the Peace Summit for Ukraine in June 2024. Most recently, the Netherlands was targeted during the NATO Summit at the end of June.

    To execute their attacks, the group recruited supporters through a messaging service. It is estimated that the hackers were able to mobilise around 4000 users who supported their operations by downloading malware that made it possible for them to participate in the DDoS attacks. The group also built its own botnet using hundreds of servers around the world that increased the attack load, causing more damage.

    Coordination of the many international partners was crucial for the success of the operation. Through Eurojust, authorities were able to coordinate their findings and plan an action day to target the hacktivist group. The Agency ensured that multiple European Investigation Orders and Mutual Legal Assistance processes were executed. During the action day on 15 July, Eurojust coordinated any last-minute judicial requests that were needed during the operation.

    Europol facilitated the information exchange, supported the coordination of the operational activities and provided extended operational analytical support, as well as crypto tracing and forensic support during the lent of the investigation, and coordinated the prevention and awareness raising campaign, released to unidentified yet offenders via messaging apps and social media channels. During the action day, Europol set-up a Command Post at Europol’s headquarters and made available a Virtual Command post for online connection with the in-person Command.

    The investigation culminated in an action day on 15 July where actions targeting the group took place in eight countries. Authorities were able to disrupt of over 100 servers worldwide. Searches took place in Germany, Latvia, Spain, Italy, Czechia, Poland and France to gather evidence for the investigation. Additionally, authorities informed the group and 1100 supporters and 17 administrators about the measures taken and the criminal liability they bear for their actions. Seven international arrest warrants have been issued. Germany issued six warrants which are directed inter alia against suspects living in the Russian Federation. Two suspects are accused of being the main instigators responsible for the activities of NoName057(16). Photos and descriptions of some of the suspects can be found on the websites of Europol and Interpol.

    The following authorities were involved in the actions:

    • Czechia: District Prosecutor’s Office of Prague 5; Police, National Counterterrorism, Extremism and Cybercrime Agency (NCTEKK)
    • Estonia: Estonian Police and Border Guard Board
    • Germany: Prosecutor General’s Office Frankfurt am Main – Cyber Crime Centre; Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA)
    • Finland: Prosecution District of Southern Finland; National Bureau of Investigation – Cybercrime Investigation Unit
    • France: Paris Public Prosecutor’s Office – National Jurisdiction against Organised Crime (JUNALCO) ; National Cyber Unit of the Gendarmerie nationale
    • Latvia: State Police of Latvia – International Cooperation Department & Cybercrime Enforcement Department
    • Lithuania: Prosecutor General’s Office of Lithuania; Lithuanian Criminal Police Bureau
    • Netherlands: Public Prosecutor’s Office of the Netherlands and Police of the Netherlands
    • Spain: Investigative Central Court nr. 1 Audiencia Nacional; Audiencia Nacional Prosecutor´s Offices; National Police; Guardia Civil
    • Sweden: Polisen
    • Switzerland: Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland; Federal Office of Police fedpol
    • United States: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: After Supreme Court Greenlights Mass Layoffs at ED, New Warren Report Reveals Impact of Trump Administration’s Attacks On Public Education

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    July 17, 2025
    11 national organizations warn of dangers from dismantling the Department of Education. 
    Warren: “If President Trump succeeds in completely eliminating the Department of Education, millions of students, teachers, and families will pay the price.”
    Text of Report (PDF)
    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) released a new 23-page report, “Education At Risk: Frontline Impacts of Trump’s War on Students,” highlighting warnings from 11 major national education and civil rights organizations on the impact of the Trump administration’s dismantling of the Department of Education (ED), slashing support to millions of American students, primary and secondary school teachers, administrators, parents, and student loan borrowers. Since the Trump Administration took office, President Trump, Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), and ED Secretary Linda McMahon have:
    Eliminated hundreds of millions of dollars in federal funding for ED programs that serve America’s students, families, and educators. 
    Fired nearly half of the department’s employees, severely limiting its ability to support public education around the country.
    Attempted to further dismantle ED by illegally transferring core ED functions to other agencies. 
    In April 2025, Senator Warren asked leading national organizations representing teachers, parents, students, student loan borrowers, and administrators to collect firsthand accounts of the impacts of the administration’s policies. 
    Key findings of Senator Warren’s report include:
    Cuts to the Office of Federal Student Aid staff and student loan programs will limit college attendance and delay borrower access to loans and debt relief.
    According to the American Council on Education, “delayed funding, especially in the instances of student financial aid, can result in the inability of students to enroll for classes and persist through to completion in a timely fashion, causing them to take on more student loan debt to complete their degrees.”

    Dismantling the Office of Civil Rights will impede ED’s ability to ensure that students receive an education free from discrimination.
    According to the National Parents Union, this “leaves 46.413 million students in 27 states and territories without dedicated civil rights investigators in regional offices.”

    Cuts to the Institute of Education Sciences threaten the collection and dissemination of critical federal data.
    ED collects data that helps students and parents get a comprehensive evaluation of the quality and financial cost of colleges and secondary schools. Without this data, the Institute for Higher Education Policy says, “Families would be left without the only reliable federal resource to help them make informed choices about one of the most significant financial and personal decisions of their lives.”

    Plans to transfer responsibilities to other agencies are wasteful and will increase the cost and complexity of performing essential department functions that America’s students and families rely on.
    For example, the National Center for Youth Law notes that President Trump’s proposal to move special education services into the Department of Health and Human Services risks “stripping away decades of hard-won progress for students with disabilities, returning to an outdated medical model that treats disabilities as pathologies to be contained rather than differences to be accommodated.”

    The report reveals that this damage will continue to worsen if the Department of Education is further defunded and dismantled, harming over 62 million students across the country. 
    The organizations that were cited in this report include the American Council on Education (ACE), National Parents Union (NPU), National Education Association (NEA), American Federation of Teachers (AFT), Student Borrower Protection Center (SBPC), Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA), National Center for Youth Law (NCYL), National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), National Women’s Law Center (NWLC), Institute for Higher Education Policy (IHEP), and the Association for Institutional Research (AIR).
    Senator Warren launched the Save Our Schools campaign in a coordinated effort to fight back against President Trump’s attempts to abolish the Department of Education:
    On July 15, 2025, Senators Warren and Sanders, along with Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, sent a letter to Secretary of Education Linda McMahon, urging her to reverse the interest hike on student loan borrowers in the SAVE forbearance. 
    On July 14, 2025, Senator Warren joined a letter to the director of the Office of Management and Budget, Russ Vought, and Secretary of Education, Linda McMahon, demanding that the Department of Education stop blocking nearly $7 billion in funds for K-12 schools, including for afterschool programs.
    On July 3, 2025, Senator Warren led her colleagues in submitting an amicus brief for NAACP v. US, arguing to the United States District Court District of Maryland that President Trump’s attempts to dismantle the Department of Education violate separation of powers and lack constitutional authority.
    On June 10, 2025, Senator Warren met with Secretary of Education Linda McMahon and delivered over 1,000 letters to McMahon that the senator had received from people in all 50 states who were worried about the Secretary’s efforts to dismantle the Department of Education.
    On June 9, 2025, Senator Warren led her colleagues in pushing the Acting Inspector General of Department of Education to open an investigation into new information obtained by her office, revealing that DOGE may have gained access to two FSA internal systems, in addition to sensitive borrower data.
    On May 20, 2025, Senator Warren and 27 other senators pushed for full funding for the Office of Federal Student Aid.
    On May 14, 2025, Senator Warren led a Senate forum entitled “Stealing the American Dream: How Trump and Republicans Are Raising Education Costs for Families,” highlighting the consequences of Secretary Linda McMahon’s reckless dismantling of the Department of Education and President Trump’s “big, beautiful bill” for working- and middle-class students and borrowers.
    On May 13, 2025, Senator Warren agreed to meet with Education Secretary Linda McMahon and promised to bring questions and stories from Americans across the country to highlight how the Trump administration’s attacks on education are hurting American families.
    On May 6, 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren highlighted the consequences of President Trump and Secretary Linda McMahon’s reckless dismantling of the Department of Education for American families in a Senate forum.
    On April 24, 2025, Senator Warren launched a new investigation into the harms of President Trump’s attacks on the Department of Education, seeking information on the impact of the Trump administration’s actions from the members of twelve leading organizations representing schools, parents, teachers, students, borrowers, and researchers.
    On April 10, 2025, following a request led by Senator Warren, the Department of Education’s Acting Inspector General agreed to open an investigation into the Trump administration’s attempts to dismantle the Department of Education.
    On April 2, 2025, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Mazie Hirono, along with Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, sent a letter to Secretary of Education Linda McMahon regarding the Department of Government Efficiency’s proposed plan to replace the Department of Education’s federal student aid call centers with generative artificial intelligence chatbots.
    On April 2, 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren launched the Save Our Schools campaign to fight back against the Trump administration’s efforts to dismantle the Department of Education and highlight the consequences for every student and public school in America.
    On March 27, 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) led a letter to Acting Department of Education Inspector General René Rocque requesting they conduct an investigation of the Trump Administration’s attempts to dismantle the Department of Education.
    On March 20, 2025, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders led a letter to Secretary of Education Linda McMahon regarding the Trump Administration’s decision to slash the capacity of Federal Student Aid to handle student aid complaints.
    On February 24, 2025, in a response to Senator Warren, Secretary McMahon gave her first public admission that she “wholeheartedly” agreed with Trump’s plans to abolish the Department of Education.
    On February 11, 2025, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Andy Kim sent Linda McMahon, Secretary-Designate for the U.S. Department of Education, a 12-page letter with 65 questions on McMahon’s policy views in advance of her nomination hearing.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NEWS: Sanders Introduces Pensions for All Act to Guarantee Retirement Security for Every American

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Vermont – Bernie Sanders
    WASHINGTON, July 17 – Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP), today introduced the Pensions for All Act, sweeping legislation that would provide comprehensive retirement coverage to the more than 56 million working-class Americans who currently have no retirement plan through their employer.  
    “We can no longer tolerate a rigged retirement system that allows the CEOs of large corporations to receive massive golden parachutes for themselves, while denying workers a pension after a lifetime of work,” Sanders said. “If we are serious about addressing the retirement crisis in America, corporations must be required to offer all of their workers a traditional pension plan that guarantees a monthly income in retirement. And if corporations refuse to offer a decent retirement plan, their workers must be allowed to receive the same type of pension that every member of Congress receives. If we can guarantee a defined benefit pension plan for members of Congress, we can and we must provide that same level of retirement security to every worker in America.” 
    In our country today, nearly half of older workers between the ages of 55 and 64 have no retirement savings at all and no idea how they will be able to retire with any shred of dignity or respect. 
    “If Congress can provide over $1 trillion in tax breaks for the top 1% and over $900 billion in tax breaks for large corporations, please do not tell me that we cannot afford to make sure that every worker in America can retire with the dignity and the respect they deserve,” Sanders continued.
    Today, more than 22.8% of seniors in the United States live in poverty — compared to just 5.1% in Denmark, 5.8% in France, 12.6% in Germany and 14.8% in Canada. Unacceptably, nearly 22% of seniors in America are trying to survive on less than $15,000 a year while half of our nation’s elderly population makes less than $30,000 a year. 
    The Pensions for All Act would reverse this trend by requiring corporations to either: 
    Provide a traditional pension plan for their workers that is at least equivalent to the plan provided to new members of Congress under the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), or
    Pay into the federal retirement system at a level that ensures all of their workers receive the same amount of retirement benefits as Members of Congress.
    Importantly, this legislation would also offer reduced contribution requirements for self-employed workers and small businesses.  
    The bill builds on Sanders’ Social Security Expansion Act, which would increase Social Security benefits by $2,400 a year and fully fund the program for the next 75 years by applying the Social Security payroll tax on all income above $250,000. Together, these bills would finally ensure retirement security for all. 
    The legislation is endorsed by United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW); Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA); Alliance for Retired Americans; Just Solutions; Equal Rights Advocates; Popular Democracy in Action; and NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice.
    “Fifty years ago, nearly 50% of American workers had a pension. Today, less than 10% do, and nearly half of older workers have no retirement savings at all. That isn’t a flaw in the system—it’s the system working exactly as the wealthy designed it. We’ve gone from being a country that promised security and dignity in old age to being a country that forces people to work until they’re in the grave. After a lifetime of hard work, every American deserves the promise of a secure, dignified retirement—not a future filled with fear, uncertainty, and poverty. Pensions have long been the bedrock of retirement for working-class people, but corporate greed has eroded that foundation. The billionaire class gutted pensions in pursuit of profit, and Washington let it happen. CEOs walk away with golden parachutes while working people walk into retirement with nothing. Meanwhile, every Member of Congress has a guaranteed pension—for life. If it’s good enough for them, it’s good enough for the people who build this country. The retirement crisis is real, and it’s time for Congress to act. Thank you to Senator Bernie Sanders—a leader who knows which side he’s on—for standing up for the working-class,” said UAW President Shawn Fain. 
    Read the bill text here. 
    Read a summary of the bill here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Vermont Delegation Secures $22.7 Million Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Award for Winooski River Bridge  

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WINOOSKI, VT – The Vermont Congressional Delegation, Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Representative Becca Balint (VT-At-Large) today announced a $22.7 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to help replace the Winooski River Bridge in Chittenden County. The federal funding, provided through DOT’s Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) Grant Program and made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will replace and upgrade travel lanes and incorporate shared-use paths to improve safety on the bridge for cars, bikes, and pedestrians. 
    “Bolstering Vermont’s infrastructure is crucial to ensuring the safety, security, and success of families, workers, and everyone traveling through the Green Mountain State. We’re proud to see this investment of more than $22 million that will make our roads and communities safer,” said the Vermont Congressional Delegation. “The replacement of the Winooski River Bridge will boost northern Vermont’s critical infrastructure, improve safety and accessibility, and make Winooski more resilient to extreme weather.” 
    “Maintaining safe and reliable public transportation infrastructure one of the most important responsibilities of any government,” said Vermont Governor Phil Scott. “I’m appreciative to our congressional delegation for bringing this much needed funding back home to Vermont.” 
    “This announcement is crucial toward the successful funding package necessary to deliver this complex bridge project,” said Vermont Transportation Secretary Joe Flynn. “The effort from Vermont’ congressional delegation is greatly appreciated.” 
    The Vermont Congressional Delegation nominated the project for $8 million in Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) for Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26). 
    The existing Winooski River Bridge, built in 1929, is in poor condition and needs to be replaced. The improved bridge will use durable materials to upgrade the existing infrastructure and create a wider sidewalk for pedestrians to cross safely. The new bridge will also feature improved drainage systems to better withstand extreme weather events driven by climate change—including the flooding that has impacted Vermont for the last three years. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Vasquez Leads Bipartisan Border Legislation to Combat Cartels’ Exploitation of American Youth and Crack Down on Smugglers

    Source: US Representative Gabe Vasquez’s (NM-02)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) introduced the No More Narcos Act and the Stop COYOTES Act, two critical bipartisan bills designed to address the continued threat of organized criminal activity in border communities. The legislation targets drug cartels and human traffickers who exploit vulnerable populations, particularly children, and strengthens law enforcement’s ability to respond through enhanced coordination and accountability.

    “Representing 180 miles of the U.S.-Mexico border, I’ve had the opportunity to hear directly from law enforcement, educators, and families about the very real challenges posed by transnational criminal organizations in border towns,” said Vasquez. “My bipartisan bills strengthen our ability to disrupt cartel activity, protect our kids from exploitation, and equip local law enforcement with the tools and coordination they need to keep communities safe.”

    The No More Narcos Act creates a coordinated educational campaign led by the Department of Justice in partnership with the DEA, DHS, the Department of Education, and other federal, state, and tribal agencies. The campaign will directly engage middle and high school students within 100 miles of the U.S.-Mexico border about the dangers of working with cartels and other Transnational Criminal Organizations. This legislation was introduced with Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ) and is supported by the American Federation of Teachers New Mexico.

    The Stop COYOTES Act improves public safety by imposing harsher penalties against human smugglers and fentanyl traffickers while also improving information sharing and reporting between DHS and local law enforcement along the border. Under the bill, DHS must report on trafficking trends, smuggling routes, and cartel activity — ensuring that local communities have the data they need to respond in real time. This legislation was introduced with Rep. Michael McCaul (R-TX). 

    Both bills are supported by the Sunland Park Police Department and Las Cruces Police Department. 

    “For too long, dangerous criminals have exploited our border crisis to traffic innocent children and smuggle deadly narcotics into our nation,” said McCaul. “It’s time we finally put a stop to these predators and ensure law enforcement agencies have the information-sharing infrastructure to do their jobs efficiently and effectively. I am proud to co-lead this bill alongside Rep. Vasquez to protect innocent children across Texas and support our local law enforcement officers as they work to counter cartel-sponsored crime.”

    “New Mexico’s educators are on the frontlines of keeping our communities safe, and we know that protecting our students from the influence of criminal organizations requires both vigilance and leadership. We applaud Congressman Vasquez for continuing to prioritize student safety through action, not just words, and we remain committed to supporting efforts that safeguard the wellbeing of every student in our schools,” said Whitney Holland, President of AFT New Mexico.

    “Border communities such as Sunland Park, New Mexico, are on the front lines of problems posed by human smugglers, fentanyl traffickers, and cartels seeking to recruit American teens,” said Chief Eric Lopez, Sunland Park Police Department. “Through these bills, Rep. Vasquez is leading on the sort of real-world solutions that will crack down on criminals to actually make our schools and streets safer. Working collaboratively with a common goal will ensure our border region stays safe and continues to thrive.”

    “I thank Congressman Vasquez for prioritizing the needs of New Mexicans and working in a bipartisan way to find solutions that will support law enforcement and improve public safety,” said Chief Jeremy Story, Las Cruces Police Department. “These bills strike the right balance between prevention, education, and enforcement, and they send a strong message that exploiting our kids or flooding our communities with fentanyl will not be tolerated.”

    Vasquez is committed to delivering smart, bipartisan solutions that protect New Mexico’s youth, disrupt criminal networks, and strengthen the resilience of border communities. Earlier this year, Vasquez led a bipartisan letter to the State Department supporting efforts to combat cartels and urging the Department to work collaboratively with border communities while protecting cross-border trade. He also backed legislation to crack down on dangerous car chases in border communities. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Donalds Delivers Remarks After Attending The House Oversight Committee’s Deposition Of Jill Biden’s Chief Of Staff

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Byron Donalds (R-FL)

    WASHINGTON – This morning, Congressman Byron Donalds (R-FL) delivered remarks alongside House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform Chairman James Comer (R-KY) after attending the closed-door deposition of Anthony Bernal.

    Known as former First Lady Jill Biden’s “work husband,” Bernal was Jill Biden’s longtime Chief of Staff, and a top Biden family advisor.

    In his remarks, Donalds called for former First Lady Jill Biden, former Vice President Kamala Harris, and “every member of the Biden administration” to testify before the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform in its investigation into former President Joe Biden’s cognitive decline and his administration’s autopen usage.

    Watch the Congressman’s remarks here or read the full transcription below: 

    Congressman Donalds: “First thing’s first, that’s just crazy. You can’t answer a simple question about the former president’s ability to discharge his duties, and you worked in the White House as Chief of Staff to the First Lady, and you come in here and you plead the Fifth. He can say whatever he wants in his testimony. Which by the way, his attorney read. He wouldn’t even read his own statement. His attorney read his statement for him. So, he came in there and said that him pleading the Fifth is not an admission of guilt or anything about what was going on in the Biden White House or to give any inkling to the fact that Joe Biden was lacking in capability. The fact that he couldn’t make any statement, the fact that the White House doctor couldn’t make any statement, and they both plead the Fifth – which is their Constitutional right to do, and we respect the Constitution like every American does, but the fact that they are now hiding behind the Constitution so that they don’t have to tell the truth to the American people about Joe Biden’s abilities and mental faculties while he was President of the United States is not just shocking, it’s stunning and it demonstrates the level of corruption that was going on in that administration. The Chairman is being nice, I don’t have to be. This is corruption at the highest level because if you cannot say, answer a simple question about Joe Biden’s capabilities then that further demonstrates that he was not in charge of his administration. And if he was not in charge of his administration, then every order, every bill that was signed, every memorandum, as far as I’m concerned are null and void. And Congressional Democrats need to actually step into the light and not hide behind this stuff or run away from it because everything that that administration did, as far as I’m concerned, is unlawful. If he [Joe Biden] did not have the ability to discharge his duties, then, anything that he signed, or the autopen signed, or whatever, as far as I’m concerned, is null and void. And where was Kamala Harris? I’m not going to speak for the Chairman, I’m going to speak for myself. As far as I’m concerned, every member of the Biden administration, at this point, needs to be subpoenaed. I don’t care if they were a secretary, I don’t care if they were a janitor working in there. They all gotta come in and answer questions for this committee.”

    Reporter Question: “Congressman, does that include Dr. Jill Biden?”

    Congressman Donalds: “Of course. Her righthand man, listen, Anthony Bernal is the righthand man. That’s her guy, that’s her Chief of Staff. If he came in here and plead the Fifth, I’m sorry, the former First Lady, she gotta come in here and answer questions. This is not about, listen, that is the president’s wife. I have a wife, James [Comer] has a wife. Obviously with family members you want to do everything you can to protect your family, but if you can’t answer a basic question to the mental capabilities of President Biden, then as far as I’m concerned, you now have to answer to the American people.”

    Reporter Question: “Should the former President or Vice President be subpoenaed?”

    Congressman Donalds: “I think Kamala Harris needs to come in and tell us what she knew and when she knew it. She ran for President, so she should be able to tell us what was going on.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Tenney Rolls Out Election Integrity Bills Aimed at Safeguarding Ballot Security

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-22)

    Washington, DC – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24), Chairwoman of the House Election Integrity Caucus, today introduced a slate of common-sense bills aimed at restoring trust in America’s election systems and protecting the sacred right to vote for U.S. citizens.

    As part of this package, Rep. Tenney reintroduced three pieces of legislation, including: 

    The Safeguarding Trust in our Politics Act which would amend the Internal Revenue Code to prohibit 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations from funding or administering election-related activities, putting an end to private funding schemes that undermine public confidence in our electoral process.

    The Promoting Free and Fair Elections Act prohibits third-party voter registration and mobilization efforts on federal property.

    A Resolution calling for a Constitutional amendment to prohibit non-citizens from voting in federal, state, and local elections. 

    “Free and fair elections are the cornerstone of our Constitutional Republic. Americans deserve to know their voices won’t be drowned out by radical actors or non-citizens voting illegally,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “As Chairwoman of the Election Integrity Caucus, I am honored to introduce these three critical bills to secure our elections, restore public trust, and protect the sacred right to vote.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pfluger Visits Kerr County with President Trump

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11)

    Pfluger Visits Kerr County with President Trump

    Kerrville, Texas, July 11, 2025

    KERR COUNTY, TX — Today, Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) visited Kerr County with President Trump, Governor Abbott, several members of the Texas Congressional delegation, as well as the Trump administration, and more to participate in a roundtable discussion.

    “I am thankful that President Trump and Governor Abbott invited me to join them in Kerrville today. Texas has experienced unimaginable tragedy over the past week, and I have been blown away by how the community has come together in these difficult times. The Trump administration has been instrumental in ensuring Texas receives the support we need, and I can’t thank them enough. I will continue working tirelessly with federal, state, and local officials to ensure we continue supporting all those affected by the floods in my district and across Texas,” said Rep. Pfluger.

    Pictures are available for broadcast and distribution here or by clicking the image below.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pfluger, Colleagues Honor Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer Scott Ruskan for Saving 165 Lives in Texas Floods

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11)

    WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) joined a resolution introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives honoring U.S. Coast Guard rescue swimmer Scott Ruskan for saving 165 lives during the catastrophic flooding in Texas.

    “Scott Ruskan is a true American hero. In the midst of disaster, this courageous member of the U.S. Coast Guard stepped up when our nation needed him most. I’m grateful for his unwavering bravery, exceptional leadership, and selfless service that saved countless lives,” said Rep. Pfluger.

    “Today, I introduced legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives to recognize Scott Ruskan for saving 165 during the tragic floods that struck the Lone Star State. Mr. Ruskan embodies what makes our servicemembers the best of the best. Many lives were saved because of Mr. Ruskan’s bravery and selfless commitment to his mission, and I thank my colleagues for working with me to ensure we give this American hero the recognition he has earned,” said Congressman Tony Gonzales. 

    “Petty Officer Scott Ruskan didn’t hesitate—he acted. In the face of rising waters and real danger, he helped save 165 lives during his very first mission,” said Congressman Michael Cloud. “That kind of courage and commitment embodies the very best of the United States Coast Guard and the American spirit. We are deeply grateful for his service, and for every man and woman who put themselves on the line during this tragedy.”

    “My granddaughters and many others are alive today because of the heroism of Scott Ruskan. His successful efforts to save 165 lives as the Guadalupe River waters rose are not just commendable but have changed the course of my and many other families’ lives. Thank you, Scott, for your selflessness, bravery, and service. We are forever grateful and indebted to you for your decisive, life-saving actions,” said Congressman Buddy Carter.

    43 members of the U.S. House of Representatives joined the resolution as original cosponsors.

    Full text of the resolution is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: NRS celebrates socio-economic investment

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    NRS celebrates socio-economic investment

    Almost £20 million funding was invested to help NRS communities grow and thrive in 2024/25.

    NRS has supported 149 projects to bring positive social change to benefit people living in communities across the UK – from Caithness to the tip of North Wales, down to the Bristol and English Channels.

    Every £1 of the £2,287,696 NRS has invested unlocked another £8.23 in match funding, elevating the community support to over £18.8m. The Nuclear Decommissioning Authority also directly supported four transformational projects with a share of over £900,000 – taking the total to almost £20m.

    David Calder, head of sustainability and socio-economics for NRS Dounreay, said:

    Our UK wide footprint enables us to play a key role in working in partnership with other public sector and increasingly private sector organisations with community benefit obligations in addressing a variety of social and economic challenges and opportunities.

    This partnership investment approach enables us to align with regional and national priorities while creating meaningful impact where it matters most – in our communities.

    Alan Krailing, head of sustainability for NRS Sites, added:

    Our mission goes beyond decommissioning and site restoration – we want to shape the future for generations to come.

    The first step to building a sustainable legacy is investing in our communities to create shared value and resilient and thriving economies that meet local needs. Our socio-economic programmes are bringing this legacy to life by creating a ripple effect of social impact across the UK.

    NRS funding helped 215 new or growing businesses, awarded 70 start-up grants and created 142 jobs to develop thriving and resilient economies in remote, rural communities. Six graduates were placed or retained in employment, as well as projects supporting over 10,000 training opportunities, 15 apprenticeships, 900 employment opportunities and 160 work experience placements, improving access to sustainable incomes.

    With over 9,000 voluntary hours and more than 33,000 individual health and well-being interventions, people of all ages have been empowered to work toward long-term solutions to social challenges. These efforts have not only improved outcomes but also fostered stronger, more resilient communities.

    Some examples of the projects supported include:

    Caithness Business Fund: A £50,000 contribution to the £150,000 Future Skills apprenticeship grant scheme has tackled skills shortages and driven investment in new opportunities for SMEs and young people in the North Highlands – a region on the cusp of becoming a renewable powerhouse for the UK and beyond.

    During its first year in operation the scheme has supported seven apprentices and stimulated business growth.

    Prysor Angling Association: £65,000 funding has revitalised a café, community hub and created four jobs on the banks of Trawsfynydd Lake in the heart of Eryri National Park, North Wales. School children are learning about conservation and biodiversity in the lakeside classroom and gaining essential life skills whilst they cast off on the Fishing for Schools programme.

    A new bird hide and three accessible fishing platforms have improved the leisure offer to all. Three EV Chargers and a 50 KW solar array are generating income to offset running costs and help support the organisation becoming self-reliant, sustainable and carbon neutral.  

    Tumbledown Farm: £85,000 funding helped to create a carbon neutral forest school at a 27-acre former farm owned by Weymouth Town Council. The new building provides community led learning, employment and well-being opportunities for local schools, families and people with additional needs in an inclusive, nurturing greenspace.

    We are incredibly proud of being a good neighbour to the schools, clubs, community groups nearest NRS sites where funding has helped to meet the local needs of 82 grass roots organisations.

    Watch the video below to find out much more.

    NRS socio-economic impact 2024-2025

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Boost for British business as new partnership breaks down barriers to infrastructure delivery in South Africa

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Boost for British business as new partnership breaks down barriers to infrastructure delivery in South Africa

    Chancellor launches new Infrastructure Partnership with South Africa, opening up significant investment and export opportunities for UK firms.

    • Best-in-class British expertise will speed up delivery of major projects in the country, helping to deliver growth and good jobs as part of our Plan for Change.
    • Builds further on the first-of-its-kind UK Growth & Investment Partnership launched globally with the nation at the end of 2024.

    British businesses will have more opportunities to expand, invest and export to South Africa through a flagship partnership launched today, 17 July.

    At an event in Durban, Chancellor Rachel Reeves hailed the agreement as having the potential to be transformative for the best and brightest British firms doing business in the country who had long been looking for government support in unlocking commercial opportunities in areas like architectural design, engineering, and professional and business services.

    The UK is the biggest international investor in South Africa, but businesses have faced challenges such as project delays due to blockers on infrastructure delivery. British expertise will be brought in to unblock these barriers on building, speeding up a pipeline of projects which British firms are well-placed to win tenders for. This will help growth and development in South Africa, and also help Britain get better return on its investments in the country.

    This model of Government-to-Government (G2G) Infrastructure Partnership has previously delivered strong growth and jobs in countries such as Peru, with companies such as Arup and Turner & Townsend building a track-record of international delivery and bringing economic growth to the UK.

    The Chancellor saw first-hand how those two businesses have already been showcasing British expertise in designing, planning and building infrastructure in South Africa during her visit in February to the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town – a site expansion project which Arup and Turner & Townsend won the contracts for.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves said:

    This is exactly what our Plan for Change is all about – backing British businesses who have been held back for too long to compete and win on the global stage.  By unlocking these opportunities, we’re opening doors for British expertise in engineering, design and project management, creating a pipeline of work in South Africa to support good jobs paying decent wages.

    When British businesses thrive abroad, it strengthens our economy at home – delivering security for working people and putting more money in their pockets. That’s the foundation of sustainable growth that our Plan for Change is designed to deliver.

    South Africa’s Minister of Public Works & Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson, said:

    This landmark partnership with the UK reflects our vision to ensure that public assets deliver real value for our people and to turn South Africa into a construction site which will help grow our economy and create jobs. By injecting technical expertise and delivery support into stalled projects within the Department of Public Works & Infrastructure, we are turning neglected buildings and land into opportunities for job creation, economic growth, and restored dignity.

    This agreement is about far more than bricks and mortar; it’s about ensuring every rand spent on public assets advances the public good, accelerates infrastructure delivery, and grows our economy.

    Funded with a mix of UK ODA and non-ODA, the G2G Partnership will formalise UK support via technical assistance for new initiatives to improve South Africa’s management of public assets, accelerate project delivery in selected local municipalities, and launch an initiative to bring in external consultants to drive major projects and override longstanding inefficiencies.

    The G2G Partnership enhances the thriving collaboration between the UK’s Department for Business and Trade, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and South Africa’s Department of Public Works & Infrastructure. It builds on the close business relationship between both countries and paves the way to unlocking new export opportunities for UK businesses, primarily in the professional and business services and infrastructure sectors, bringing economic growth to the UK.

    Today’s announcement also further builds on the UK’s Growth and Investment Partnership with South Africa, a first-of-its-kind collaboration initiated by Foreign Secretary David Lammy during his visit to Cape Town in November 2024. Projects announced to date through the Growth and Investment Partnership include initiatives around inclusive agriculture, export promotion, and rail reform delivered by Crossrail international.

    It comes as Prime Minister Keir Starmer and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz signed the UK-Germany Treaty in London this afternoon. Included within this is a commitment for public financial institutions in the UK and Germany to work together in mobilising private capital into high-growth industries, opening up opportunities for innovative British businesses. Reeves will mark the agreement in a meeting with her counterpart Vice-Chancellor Lars Klingbeil, in Durban later this afternoon.

    Coupled with the launch of the UK-SA Infrastructure Partnership, the agreements recognise infrastructure as key to growth and that cooperating with international partners to invest in that infrastructure is a route to delivering the UK Government’s Industrial Strategy: with more good jobs and more money in the pockets of working people across our countries.

    Business and Trade Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds said:

    Our Modern Industrial Strategy, and Trade Strategy, are about playing to the UK’s strengths.

    Our businesses lead the way in engineering and major infrastructure projects, and partnerships like these help unlock new exports, investment and job-creating contracts. 

    This Government-to-Government Partnership builds on the UK’s thriving business relationship with South Africa and shows how our Plan for Change is paving the way for growth at home by unlocking new opportunities abroad.

    As the government unlocks infrastructure pipelines abroad, it has today published its pipeline of infrastructure projects at home through the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority.

    The 10-Year Infrastructure Strategy includes investment of at least £725 billion into infrastructure over the next decade across eight growth-driving sectors where Britain holds a cutting-edge on the world stage, while the landmark Planning and Infrastructure Bill will also speed up and streamline the delivery of new homes and critical infrastructure – cutting unnecessary red tape which stifles delivery. The measures in the Bill are expected to boost the UK economy by £7.5 billion over the next 10 years – with planning reforms having the largest positive growth effect from a single measure ever scored by the Office for Budget Responsibility.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM meeting with Chancellor Merz of Germany: 17 July 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    PM meeting with Chancellor Merz of Germany: 17 July 2025

    The Prime Minister met German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Downing Street this afternoon.

    The Prime Minister met German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Downing Street this afternoon following the signing of a new UK-Germany bilateral treaty, the first of its kind.

    The leaders reflected on the importance of the Treaty in demonstrating the UK and Germany’s status as the closest of strategic partners and celebrated the opportunity to deepen ties, tackle shared challenges, and invest in shared strengths together.

    The Prime Minister thanked Chancellor Merz for his commitment to introduce legislation to be adopted by the end of the year to make it illegal to facilitate illegal migration to the UK. The Prime Minister said that this will make a significant difference in disrupting the criminal networks driving small boats crossings to the UK. Both leaders agreed that tackling irregular migration is an absolute priority and they would look at how they could go further together to tackle it.

    The Prime Minister also welcomed the news that Germany would be opening its eGates for frequent travellers from the UK by the end of the summer and looked forward to this being extended to all travellers as soon as possible.

    On defence and security, the leaders reflected on the important commitments made today to deliver the new Deep Precision Strike capability within the next decade and agreed that closer cooperation on defence exports and between their defence industries will pose valuable opportunities for economic growth in both the UK and Germany.

    They agreed that it remains vital to provide steadfast support to Ukraine to defend itself against Russia’s illegal war, and that they would stand together with Ukraine as long as it takes.

    Turning to the situation in the Middle East, the leaders agreed that the situation in Gaza was unacceptable. They underlined the urgent need for a ceasefire, and the return of all hostages, to pave the way for a two-state solution and a secure future for Palestinians and Israelis.

    Finally, the leaders reflected on how the Treaty signed today would be the basis of a relationship between their two countries that would be closer than ever and looked forward to continuing to work together on their shared priorities.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Dream Fest: raising aspirations and sparking imagination

    Source: City of Derby

    Children and young people of all ages, from early years through to college, came together last week to enjoy Derby’s first Dream Fest.

    The newly refurbished Derby Market Hall hosted two energetic days of workshops and performances, encouraging young people to tread the boards as characters from Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. 

    On day one, schools from across the city enjoyed high-octane dance classes and movement workshops alongside quieter, dreamier crafting sessions, group rehearsals of their Midsummer Night’s Dream extracts, and a final spectacular multi-school performance. 

    The fun continued on day two, with families invited to stop by and take part in a free programme of music, storytelling, breakdancing performances and workshops. It was a busy, joyous event, but any children who felt a little overwhelmed during the day were able to take time out in the Zen Den. Designed by a group of special educational needs and disability student ambassadors, the space featured sensory equipment and provided a calming space to relax and regroup.

    Dream Fest was created as a part of the Derby Promise, a city-wide initiative that brings together businesses, educational and cultural organisations united by the aim of helping our young people to dream big, explore the world of work and by supporting them to thrive. 

    Previous events have introduced children to careers in science and technology, and encouraged engagement with environmental issues. This was the first festival dedicated to creativity and culture, connecting learning with real-life experiences of collaborating, rehearsing, and performing. 

    Getting creative at Dream Fest

    Children were also able to engage with Royal Shakespeare Company actors about life in the creative industries, gaining insight into building a portfolio, how to approach auditions and interviews, and how to network and find new opportunities. Young people asked a range of interesting and thoughtful questions, keen to get the inside scoop on how to turn a passion into a career.

    Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Derby City Council Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Skills particularly enjoyed watching the children immerse themselves in the activities and find their voice amongst their peers:

    It’s been wonderful to watch young minds unleash their creativity and have so much fun in doing so. There’s been a real focus on encouraging young people to explore their imagination and understand more about creative careers, taking an ‘if you can see it, you can believe it’ approach.

    Children have also learnt about the ways in which creative pastimes can help them in their future careers, be that through strengthening communication skills, building confidence, nurturing empathy or understanding different perspectives. Alongside these practical aspects, it’s been fantastic to see the energy and enthusiasm the children and young people have brought to the activities – truly joyful.

    Neil Wilkinson, Executive Headteacher at The Bemrose School, said:

    Our pupils and staff felt it was a really impressive event and would definitely want to be part of it in the future.  The workshops inspired the children around careers and the notion that they should dream big! 

    The pupils involved were able to explore and develop their problem-solving skills whilst also having the opportunity to perform and see their peers also perform. The event had awe and wonder for all involved and showed the full potential Derby has across all ages.

    Derby Promise continues its mission to encourage children and young people to dream big, raising aspirations about what is possible to achieve and to get involved with. The next event on the calendar is the Festival of Sport, which runs from 4-8 August at Derby Arena, offering inclusive sporting activities for children, ranging from dodgeball and cricket to wheelchair tennis, basketball and archery. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Conviction for door supervisor working with forged licence

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Conviction for door supervisor working with forged licence

    A man found working as a door supervisor with a forged Security Industry Authority (SIA) licence has been ordered to pay over £800 in fines and costs.

    Ochuko Oyibo has pleaded guilty to offences contrary to Section 3 of the Private Security Industry Act 2001 after Security Industry Authority (SIA) investigators discovered he was working with a forged licence. 

    A number of SIA investigation officers took part in a series of investigations across Islington on the night of 2 August 2024, where Mr Oyibo was found in possession of a forged licence under the name and number of a different person who was a legitimate SIA licence holder. 

    Mr Oyibo later admitted to knowingly working with a counterfeit licence during an interview under caution after SIA officers had confiscated the licence on the night and made clear he should not undertake further security work. 

    On 25 April 2025 at Willesden Magistrates Court, Mr Oyibo pleaded guilty to an offence under Section 3 of the Private Security Industry Act. The court ordered him to pay a £40 fine as well as a £16 victim surcharge and £757.50 in prosecution costs, totalling £813.50 overall.

    David Will, SIA Financial Investigation Officer, said: 

    By working with a forged licence, Ochuko Oyibo put the public at risk and undermined people’s faith in the private security industry. I am glad that he has been prosecuted and will no longer illegally work in the industry. 

    Mr Oyibo’s discovery by the SIA’s inspections officers is a testament to the hard work they put in to help protect the public. Their role ensuring compliance across the private security industry is invaluable.

    Background 

    By law, security operatives working under contract must hold and display a valid SIA licence. Information about SIA enforcement and penalties can be found on GOV.UK/SIA.  

    The offence relating to the Private Security Industry Act 2001 that is mentioned above is:  

    • Section 3 – engaging in licensable conduct without a licence 

    The SIA is the organisation responsible for regulating the private security industry in the UK, reporting to the Home Secretary under the terms of the Private Security Industry Act 2001. The SIA’s main duties are the compulsory licensing of individuals undertaking designated activities and managing the voluntary Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS).

    Media enquiries

    For media enquiries only, please contact:

    SIA press office

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Deluzio and Colleagues Propose New Tools to Fight Price Gouging Amidst Trump’s Reckless Tariffs

    Source: US Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Chris Deluzio (PA-17) along with Jan Schakowsky (IL-11) and U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) reintroduced the Price Gouging Prevention Act to fight back against the corporate power enabled by the Trump administration’s chaotic tariff policies. The bill would give the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and state attorneys general new tools to enforce a federal ban against grossly excessive price increases.

    Over the past five years, giant corporations have repeatedly taken advantage of inflation and supply chain disruptions to expand their profit margins by raising prices higher than necessary to cover cost increases. President Trump’s on-again, off-again tariffs have created yet another opportunity for corporate price gouging. The tariff-driven uncertainty gives companies the opportunity to raise prices on all goods—regardless of whether they are actually subject to new tariffs—higher and for longer than what is necessary to cover any cost increases. Now, dozens of companies have reported raising the prices of goods and services unaffected by Trump’s tariffs. 

    “Prices are still too high, and inflation is still pounding folks. Especially now, we need to rein in monopolists and other huge corporations with the power to price gouge the American people,” said Congressman Deluzio. “By upping FTC enforcement practices and boosting transparency, this bill will take some of the squeeze off American families and small businesses suffering under the thumb of out-of-control corporate power.”   

    Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) joined as co-sponsors. 

    The Price Gouging Prevention Act of 2025 would help the federal government and state attorneys general fight corporate price gouging. The bill would:  

    • Prohibit price gouging at the federal level—anytime and anywhere. The bill would clarify that price gouging is an unfair and deceptive practice under the FTC Act. It would allow the FTC and state attorneys general to stop sellers from charging a grossly excessive price, regardless of where the price gouging occurs in a supply chain or distribution network;
    • Help enforcers establish when price gouging is occurring during a significant shift in trade policy. The bill lists a set of exceptional market shocks—including an “abrupt or significant shift in trade policy”—and outlines a standard for a presumptive violation of the price gouging prohibition during such a shock, such as when companies brag about increasing prices;
    • Create an affirmative defense for small businesses acting in good faith. Small and local businesses sometimes must raise prices in response to crisis-driven increases in their costs because they have little negotiating power with their price-gouging suppliers. This affirmative defense protects small businesses earning less than $100 million from frivolous litigation if they show legitimate cost increases;
    • Require public companies to clearly disclose costs and pricing strategies. During periods of exceptional market shock, the bill requires public companies to transparently disclose and explain changes in their cost of goods sold, gross margins, and pricing strategies in their quarterly SEC filings; and 
    • Provide $1 billion in additional funding to the FTC to carry out its work. 

    During Trump’s presidency, giant corporations have continued to take advantage of inflation and supply chain disruptions by raising prices far higher than necessary, ultimately ripping off American people. The Price Gouging Prevention Act is a huge step towards ending this practice by holding corporate price gougers accountable.

    Last week, Congressman Deluzio joined with Senator Warren and 15 other Democrats urged the FTC to investigate tariff-enabled corporate price gouging that is raising costs for American families and use its full authority to prevent it.  

    As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, Congressman Deluzio focuses on fighting price gouging in the defense sector, especially defense contracting. In the 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that passed out of committee on July 17th, he was able to secure several important wins on this topic and for his community in Western Pennsylvania. He also previously introduced Stop Price Gouging the Military Act to close loopholes in current acquisition laws. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: The CBSA gives tips for a smoother border crossing during the Quebec construction holidays

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    July 17, 2025         Montréal, Quebec                    Canada Border Services Agency

    The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) offers some tips to travellers who will be returning to Canada during the construction holidays in Quebec, which take place form July 20 to August 3. This is a period when higher traffic is observed at ports of entry.

    Every day, the CBSA works hard to protect Canadians, support the economy and ensure the safe and efficient movement of people and goods across the border. In 2024, we welcomed over 93.4 million travellers, stopped over 34,400 kg of illegal drugs from entering our communities and kept more than 17,200 weapons and 930 firearms off our streets.

    The CBSA plans and prepares for long weekends and summer travel. We monitor traveller volumes and prioritize efficient processing of travellers at land ports of entry and at international airports, without compromising safety and security. If you encounter wait times at the border, it is likely because we are working behind the scenes to conduct examinations, seize drugs, firearms or stolen vehicles, or prevent high-risk individuals from entering Canada.

    Here are some tips to help you plan for your trip:

    • Plan ahead, expect delays and check border wait times. Travellers crossing the border by land are encouraged to cross during non-peak hours such as early mornings. The Monday of a holiday long weekend tends to be the busiest, with longer border wait times.
    • Looking for a port of entry’s hours of operation? Always best to check the official CBSA Directory of Offices and Services. If you are using a GPS application (such as Google Maps, Apple Maps or Waze) to direct you to a port of entry, consider checking different navigation options (such as fastest and shortest routes) to determine the preferred route of travel. In many instances, there are alternative ports of entry within close proximity.
    • Have your travel documents handy. Whether travelling by land, air or water, you can help speed up processing times by always coming prepared with your travel documents.
    • Be prepared to declare. Declare everything you have with you upon entry into Canada. If you arrive by land, you are responsible for everything inside your vehicle.
      • Goods purchased abroad: If you are a resident of Canada, personal exemptions allow you to bring goods, including alcohol and tobacco up to a certain value, back to Canada without paying regular duty and taxes. Make sure you know the value of goods you are bringing back in Canadian dollars and have your receipts available for the officer.
      • Surtaxes on certain U.S. goods. If you’ve purchased goods in the U.S. and are bringing them into Canada, you may have to pay a 25% surtax in addition to regular duties and taxes. For residents of Canada, this surtax applies only to goods exceeding your personal exemptions limit. Consult the lists of products surtaxed: complete lists of goods subject to the surtax. Visit the CBSA website for more details on how these surtaxes apply at the border. 
    • Flying into Canada? Use Advance Declaration and make your customs declaration up to 72 hours in advance of your arrival into Canada at participating airports.
    • Entering Canada by boat? If you are planning to travel in or near Canadian waters, or enter Canada by boat, you should review Reporting requirements for private boat operators before making travel plans. All travellers entering Canada by boat must report to the CBSA without delay.
    • When travelling with children who are not your own or for whom you don’t have full legal custody, we recommend you have a consent letter from the parent or legal guardian authorizing you to travel with the child. We are always watching for missing children, and in the absence of the letter, officers may ask additional questions.
    • Cannabis: Don’t bring it in. Don’t take it out. Bringing cannabis across the border in any form, including oils containing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or cannabidiol (CBD), without a permit or exemption authorized by Health Canada is a serious criminal offence subject to arrest and prosecution, despite the legalization of cannabis in Canada. A medical prescription from a doctor does not count as Health Canada authorization.
    • Declare any food, plants, or animals. Consult the Automated Import Reference System (AIRS) on the Canadian Food Inspection Agency website before bringing any food, plant, and animal products into Canada.
    • Travelling with medication? Make sure you understand your responsibilities.

    Not sure? Ask a CBSA officer. The best thing you can do to save time is to be open and honest with the CBSA officer. If you are not sure about what to declare, don’t hesitate to ask. Our officers are here to help and keep everyone safe.

    For more information, visit the CBSA Website or call us at 1-800-461-9999.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Provincial and territorial museums and galleries join the Canada Strong Pass

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    GATINEAU, July 17, 2025

    Canadians across the country are choosing Canada this summer and enjoying all that the country has to offer. As Canadians make this country their travel destination, they can enjoy free or discounted admission with the Canada Strong Pass. The Pass is about making it easier for everyone—especially youth and families—to explore Canada and celebrate what makes it extraordinary and worthy of our pride, from coast to coast to coast.

    Today, the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages, announced that 86 provincial and territorial museums and galleries will be participating in the Pass. The participating institutions will offer free admission for children aged 17 and under and 50 percent off admission fees for youth aged 18 to 24.

    Canadians can visit the Canada Strong Pass website for the list of participating museums and galleries.

    Select provincial and territorial museums and galleries were invited to join the Canada Strong Pass initiative, with Government of Canada support helping offset admission costs. These museums are in addition to the national museums in Canada that are offering the same benefits. Now is the perfect time for Canadians to explore their rich cultural history and traditions by visiting and learning at any of these wonderful museums.

    Until September 2, 2025, the Canada Strong Pass will help families save money by enjoying expanded access to Canada’s nature and culture, and while supporting the tourism industry and local economies and jobs across the country.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Weber Introduces BIRD Health Act to Strengthen U.S.-Israel Medical Innovation

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Randy Weber (14th District of Texas)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Reps. Randy Weber (TX-14) and Chris Pappas (NH-01) introduced the United States-Israel Bilateral Innovation for Research and Development in (BIRD) Health Act of 2025. The legislation directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to partner with the successful Binational Industrial Research and Development Foundation to create a dedicated BIRD Health Program, modeled after existing collaborations in energy, cyber, and homeland security.

    The BIRD Health Act deepens U.S.-Israel collaboration in the development of next-generation health technologies, fortify domestic supply chains, and reduce our reliance on adversarial nations for critical medical products. By leveraging Israel’s world-class biotech ecosystem and America’s unmatched research infrastructure.

    “The United States and Israel share one of the strongest, most enduring alliances in the world, and it just makes sense to join forces in advancing life-saving health technologies that benefit both our nations,” said Rep. Weber. “The BIRD Health Act of 2025 builds on our shared strengths to support cutting-edge medical innovation, strengthen supply chains, and improve health outcomes for American families.”

    “U.S. and Israeli doctors, scientists, and researchers are leading the world in groundbreaking medical advancements, including regenerative medicine, disease prevention, and cancer research,” said Rep. Pappas. “The health technology and innovation program created through this bipartisan legislation will strengthen the bilateral partnership between the U.S. and Israel to address emerging health issues, develop innovative solutions, and save lives.”

    The bill supports:
    • Joint U.S.-Israel research and development in medical devices, digital health, diagnostics, vaccines, and biotechnology
    • Manufacturing partnerships to boost U.S.-based production of critical medicines
    • Innovation ecosystems that promote startups, clinical trials, and commercialization of new treatments
    • Data-sharing and cybersecurity protocols to protect patient privacy and medical infrastructure

    Read the bill here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Weber, Ross Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Improve Extreme Weather Forecasting

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Randy Weber (14th District of Texas)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Reps. Randy Weber (TX-14) and Deborah Ross (NC-02) introduced bipartisan legislation to help Americans plan for inclement and severe weather by establishing a program to improve precipitation forecasts, including extreme rainfall and other related weather events. The program will be part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), an agency dedicated to providing citizens with reliable weather information.

    Recently, heavy precipitation and flooding in Texas and North Carolina has tragically taken many lives and caused extreme destruction. Improving precipitation forecasts is vital to ensuring Americans have accurate weather predictions, especially during extreme weather incidents. The program established by this bill will support research, development, and implementation of Earth System Models (i.e., simulations used to understand and project changes in climate and ecosystems), including those related to extreme weather.

    “Southeast Texas knows all too well the destruction that extreme weather can bring,” said Rep. Weber. “Every year, hurricanes and major storms threaten communities across this nation, especially along the Gulf Coast. That’s why this bill is so important. It delivers real, boots-on-the-ground improvements to help families, first responders, and local officials make smart, life-saving decisions ahead of time. Texans and Americans deserve the most accurate, cutting-edge forecasting tools available. We ought to have the most accurate, precise weather forecasting possible, and this bill makes sure we’re taking the right steps to invest in the latest, most advanced tools available.”

    “Extreme weather endangers communities across the country, and we need to give Americans the tools to help them plan for and avoid dangerous weather,” said Rep. Ross. “From North Carolina to Texas, states are increasingly experiencing devastating storms that cause severe damage and loss of life. This legislation will ensure that every community can prepare for future storms with accurate precipitation forecasts. Thank you to Congressman Weber for joining me in this important effort.”

    Bill text is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two California Residents Plead Guilty in Connection with $16 Million Hospice Fraud Scheme and Money Laundering Scheme

    Source: US FBI

    Two California residents pleaded guilty yesterday in connection with their roles in defrauding Medicare of nearly $16 million through sham hospice companies and to laundering the proceeds of the fraud as part of a multi-year scheme.

    According to court documents, Karpis Srapyan, 35, of Winnetka, California, conspired with others, including co-defendants Petros Fichidzhyan and Juan Carlos Esparza, to bill Medicare for hospice services that were not medically necessary and never provided. To conduct their fraudulent scheme, they used a series of four sham hospice companies: one owned by Esparza and the other three owned by foreign nationals but controlled by the defendants. Srapyan and his co-defendants concealed the scheme by using foreign nationals’ personal identifying information to open bank accounts, submit information to Medicare, and sign property leases. They also misappropriated names and other identifying information of several doctors, two of whom were deceased, to fraudulently bill Medicare for purported hospice services. In total, Medicare paid the fake hospice companies nearly $16 million.

    Fichidzhyan, Esparza, and Srapyan worked with others to launder the fraudulent proceeds from their hospice scheme. Susanna Harutyunyan, 39, of Winnetka, was aware that her husband and co-defendant Mihran Panosyan was involved in illegal activity with Srapyan and Fichidzhyan. As part of the money laundering scheme, Harutyunyan and her co-defendants maintained fraudulent identification documents, bank documents, checkbooks, and credit and debit cards in the names of purported foreign owners in the residence where she and Panosyan lived and another residence that was owned in her name. Srapyan conducted dozens of financial transactions, totaling approximately $3.2 million, moving funds between accounts in the names of the sham hospice companies, accounts in the names of foreign nationals that were controlled by the defendants, and other accounts involved in the money laundering scheme. Harutyunyan knowingly spent fraudulent proceeds on personal expenses, including payments for a BMW automobile.

    Srapyan pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud and money laundering and is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 6. He faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. Harutyunyan pleaded guilty to money laundering and is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 17; she faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine their sentences after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Harutyunyan faces deportation.

    Co-defendant Petros Fichidzhyan previously pleaded guilty to health care fraud, aggravated identity theft, and money laundering. In May, Fichidzhyan was sentenced to 12 years in prison. Co-defendant Mihran Panosyan pleaded guilty to money laundering in June and is scheduled to be sentenced Sept. 8. Co-defendant Juan Carlos Esparza’s change of plea hearing is scheduled for July 14.

    The guilty pleas today are the most recent convictions in the Justice Department’s ongoing effort to combat hospice fraud in the greater Los Angeles area. Last year, a doctor was convicted at trial for his role in a scheme to bill Medicare for hospice services patients did not need, and two other defendants were sentenced for their roles in a hospice fraud scheme.  

    Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Assistant Director in Charge Akil Davis of the FBI Los Angeles Field Office, and Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG) made the announcement.

    The FBI and HHS-OIG are investigating the case.

    Trial Attorneys Michael Bacharach, Sarah E. Edwards, and Allison L. McGuire of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Tara B. Vavere for the Central District of California is handling asset forfeiture.

    The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of 9 strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,800 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $30 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Prison for Child Exploitation

    Source: US FBI

    SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – On July 7, 2025, United States District Court Judge Aida Delgado-Colón sentenced Ángel Alexis Vázquez-Sánchez to 300 months (25 years) in prison, to be followed by 15 years of supervised release, for child exploitation. Vázquez-Sánchez, 27, from Jayuya, PR, was indicted on March 5, 2024, and plead guilty on January 29, 2025.

    According to court documents, from December 2021 throughout May 2023, Ángel Alexis Vázquez Sánchez sexually exploited four different minor females, between the ages of 12 and 16, with the intent that the minors engage in sexual activity, and to obtain sexually explicit images of the minors.

    Ángel Alexis Vázquez Sánchez plead guilty to four counts of sexual exploitation of children. From December 2021 through May 2023, the defendant used his cellular device, social media, and communication platforms to communicate in a sexually explicit manner via text, still images, video and voice notes, with four female minors ranging from 12 to 16 years of age to employ, use, persuade, induce, entice and coerce the female minors to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing visual depictions of such conduct. The defendant solicited and received such images via his cellular device and requested that the female minors engage in sexual acts or sexual contact and produced the images and videos of the sexually explicit conduct of the minors.

    The FBI investigated the case, and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Office of Inspector General (OIG) provided significant assistance during the ongoing investigation.

    Assistant US Attorney Jenifer Y. Hernández-Vega, Child Exploitation and Immigration Unit Chief, prosecuted the case.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Federal Task Force Agent Sentenced to 15 Months in Prison for Corruption

    Source: US FBI

    SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – Antonio Pizarro Adorno, a former Puerto Rico Special Investigations Bureau (“NIE” as known in Spanish) officer who was assigned to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (HSI), was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Camille Vélez-Rivé to 15 months in prison and three years of Supervised Release Term for corruptly concealing $170 during a law enforcement seizure.

    On March 13, 2025, after a five-day jury trial, a federal jury convicted Antonio Pizarro Adorno. According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, on April 27, 2023, Pizarro Adorno, took $170 in cash seized by the Puerto Rico Police Bureau (PRPB), with the intent to impair its integrity and availability for use in an investigation being conducted by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives related to drug trafficking in a community in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

    U.S. Attorney W. Stephen Muldrow of the District of Puerto Rico; and Devin J. Kowalski, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI made the announcement.

    The FBI San Juan Field Office, Public Corruption Unit investigated the case, with the collaboration of the Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Marie Christine Amy prosecuted the case.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Inmate Sentenced for Threatening Federal Officials

    Source: US FBI

    PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Noah D. Stirn, 30, an inmate with the U.S. Bureau of Prisons, was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to making true threats to kill and injure a Federal District Judge, the Federal Clerk of Courts, and threatening the use of explosives against the Federal Public Defender’s Office. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

    “The public should rest assured that my office will not tolerate repeat offenders threatening to endanger individuals for simply doing their jobs, especially those in public service.  If you make true threats to federal officials, you should know that we will take them seriously,” said United States Attorney Heekin.  “This sentence sends a strong message that we will protect our dedicated government employees, so that they may perform their jobs and serve the public without fear.”

    Court documents reflect that Stirn mailed a letter threatening to kill a Federal District Judge for the Northern District of Florida and the Federal Clerk of Courts for the Northern District of Florida. Stirn also mailed a letter to the Federal Public Defender’s Office for the Northern District of Florida which contained threats involving the use of explosives and claimed al-Qaeda was inspiring and sponsoring the attack. Stirn was previously prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida for mailing similar threats, and he was sentenced to 110 months custody in the Bureau of Prisons on February 12, 2020. On July 10, 2025, U.S. District Judge T. Kent Wetherell sentenced Stirn to 37 months consecutive to his current 110-month sentence.

    Greg Leljedal, Acting U.S. Marshal for the Northern District of Florida said: “Protecting the federal judiciary is a cornerstone of the U.S. Marshals Service.  Perpetrators that threaten to physically harm federal officials can expect swift and serious consequences for these illegal actions.”

    The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations and the United States Marshals Service. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Harley W. Ferguson. 

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

    MIL Security OSI –