NewzIntel.com

Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The importance of simplification for SMEs when decarbonising corporate fleets – E-002666/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002666/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Tomas Tobé (PPE), Jörgen Warborn (PPE)

    In its communication entitled ‘A Competitiveness Compass for the EU’[1], the Commission sets a target of reducing the cost of all administrative burdens on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by 35 %. In its communication on decarbonising corporate fleets, reducing the reporting and administrative burden is stated as one of the key aspects in the preparation of the coming legislative proposal[2].

    The measures presented in the communication on decarbonising corporate fleets are intended to boost demand for zero-emission vehicles and support the decarbonisation of the transport sector. However, it is of the utmost importance that the Commission deliver on its promises of simplification, including as part of this initiative.

    • 1.What measures will the Commission take to ensure that its legislative proposal on decarbonising corporate fleets is in line with the priorities of the competitiveness compass regarding simplification and a reduction in the administrative burden on SMEs?
    • 2.What other measures will it take to support SMEs in their transition to a decarbonised corporate fleet?

    Submitted: 1.7.2025

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/10017eb1-4722-4333-add2-e0ed18105a34_en?filename=Communication_1.pdf.
    • [2] https://transport.ec.europa.eu/document/download/1498648c-63fc-4715-975d-ccbc64703da5_en?filename=Communication%20-%20Decarbonising%20corporate%20fleets.pdf.
    Last updated: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Need to update the EU regulatory framework on phytosanitary treatments to include precision technologies such as drone use – E-002667/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002667/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Vicent Marzà Ibáñez (Verts/ALE)

    Directive 2009/128/EC prohibits, with certain exceptions, the aerial spraying of plant protection products. In 2017, the European Commission judged that drone treatments should be considered aerial, and did not make a distinction between them and conventional aerial techniques, despite the fact that drone spraying is often carried out at a lower height than some land-based treatments. This interpretation, based solely on their ability to fly, prevents drones from being used, even when they increase precision, reduce drift and enable a smaller dose to be used, which means they align with the objectives of the European Green Deal, the Farm to Fork Strategy and digital agriculture. Many Member States have expressed interest in reviewing this classification.

    In light of the above:

    • 1.Does the Commission intend to review the interpretation of Article 9 of Directive 2009/128/EC to allow the use of drones when their lower environmental impact is proven?
    • 2.Does it consider it necessary to define a specific category for drones based on technical criteria – such as low height and drift – and not only on their ability to fly?
    • 3.What action does the Commission propose to take to adapt the regulatory framework and avoid the uptake of precision agriculture technologies being held back?

    Submitted: 1.7.2025

    Last updated: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Need to update the EU regulatory framework on phytosanitary treatments to include precision technologies such as drone use – E-002667/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002667/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Vicent Marzà Ibáñez (Verts/ALE)

    Directive 2009/128/EC prohibits, with certain exceptions, the aerial spraying of plant protection products. In 2017, the European Commission judged that drone treatments should be considered aerial, and did not make a distinction between them and conventional aerial techniques, despite the fact that drone spraying is often carried out at a lower height than some land-based treatments. This interpretation, based solely on their ability to fly, prevents drones from being used, even when they increase precision, reduce drift and enable a smaller dose to be used, which means they align with the objectives of the European Green Deal, the Farm to Fork Strategy and digital agriculture. Many Member States have expressed interest in reviewing this classification.

    In light of the above:

    • 1.Does the Commission intend to review the interpretation of Article 9 of Directive 2009/128/EC to allow the use of drones when their lower environmental impact is proven?
    • 2.Does it consider it necessary to define a specific category for drones based on technical criteria – such as low height and drift – and not only on their ability to fly?
    • 3.What action does the Commission propose to take to adapt the regulatory framework and avoid the uptake of precision agriculture technologies being held back?

    Submitted: 1.7.2025

    Last updated: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Meets Egyptian Prime Minister

    Source: Government of Qatar

    Doha, July 08, 2025

    HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani met Tuesday with HE Prime Minister of the sisterly Arab Republic of Egypt Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, currently visiting the country.

    During the meeting, they discussed bilateral cooperation relations and ways to support and enhance them, particularly in the investment and economic fields, and explored promising opportunities to elevate them to broader horizons for the benefit and prosperity of both countries and their brotherly peoples.

    The discussions also covered the latest developments in the region, especially in the Gaza Strip and the occupied Palestinian territories, in addition to a number of issues of common concern.

    Both sides affirmed their keenness to develop bilateral relations in all fields and stressed the continuation of joint mediation efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza, secure the release of prisoners and detainees, and facilitate the entry of aid to address the catastrophic humanitarian situation in the Strip.

    They also expressed their full support for all regional and international efforts aimed at de-escalation and the consolidation of stability and peace in the region.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister Anand speaks with Japan’s Minister for Foreign Affairs

    Source: Government of Canada News

    July 8, 2025 – Tokyo, Japan – Global Affairs Canada

    The Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today met with Japan’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Iwaya Takeshi in Tokyo to deepen Canada’s bilateral relations with a trusted partner.

    The ministers discussed the advantages of the Security of Information Agreement that they signed today – an important milestone in the strategic partnership between Canada and Japan. The ministers agreed to continue building on the strong bilateral relationship and to deepen defence and security collaboration between the two countries. They also discussed ways to advance shared security and prosperity interests under the Canada-Japan Action Plan. 

    The ministers agreed that future bilateral cooperation on national and economic security, including energy, will be important. They also focussed on the importance of international institutions, rule of law and multilateralism that underpin Canada and Japan’s shared interest in a free and open Indo Pacific region. Minister Anand reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to the Indo-Pacific and to working with Japan as a strategic partner in the region.

    Related product

    Associated links

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canada and Ontario investing to improve energy efficiency in province’s agri-food industry

    Source: Government of Canada News

    July 8, 2025 – Toronto, Ontario – Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

    The governments of Canada and Ontario are investing up to $3 million and launching the third intake of the Agricultural Stewardship Initiative (ASI) to help farmers implement projects to improve the energy efficiency of their farming operations. To support the province’s plan to protect Ontario, this funding will help local agriculture, agri-food and agri-based products businesses across the province enhance their competitiveness, put more money back into their pockets and keep workers on the job.

    This initiative is being funded through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership. Successful applicants can receive between $10,000 to $90,000 for energy efficiency improvements, including the replacement of inefficient on-farm technologies, installing geothermal heating and adopting high efficiency motor, ventilation, heating, cooling, refrigeration, grain drying and lighting systems. This third intake of the ASI builds on the up to $12.5 million already allocated to support more than 870 projects since 2023.

    The Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership is a 5-year (2023-2028), $3.5-billion investment by federal, provincial and territorial governments to strengthen competitiveness, innovation, and resiliency of Canada’s agriculture, agri‐food, and agri‐based products sector. This includes $1 billion in federal programs and activities and a $2.5 billion commitment cost-shared 60% federally and 40% provincially/territorially for programs designed and delivered by the provinces and territories.

    The ASI is being delivered by the Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association (OSCIA). Information on how to apply for funding and project eligibility under the Agricultural Stewardship Initiative can be found on the OSCIA website. Eligible Ontario farmers can submit one application under this third intake, from August 13 to September 3, 2025. 

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Brownley, Correa Demand Transparency from Secretary Noem on ICE and DHS Overreach

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Julia Brownley (D-CA)

    Washington, DC – This week, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA) joined Congressman Lou Correa (D-CA) and 21 House Democrats in pressing U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem on the alarming actions of federal agents in California, including Ventura, Los Angeles, and Orange Counties. In a letter to Secretary Noem, the Members expressed deep concerns about the Trump Administration’s lack of transparency in the agency’s recent immigration enforcement operations and activities, including the detention of individuals with no criminal record. The letter strongly condemns the administration’s overreach and demands immediate transparency.

    “President Trump initially promised to go after the worst of the worst in his immigration policy,” wrote the Members. “However the actions of this administration and your DHS show you are not interested in arresting dangerous criminals like murderers, rapists, and drug dealers. Instead, you are sending masked individuals who do not identify themselves as law enforcement to arrest college and high school students, restaurant workers, factory workers, and even American children.”

    “This administration refuses to provide accurate details around what criminal record, if any, DHS components use to justify the arrest of an individual,” wrote the members. 

    A recent analysis by the Los Angeles Times found that 69% of individuals detained by ICE had no criminal convictions. In their letter, the Members demanded DHS to provide immediate and accurate information on their immigration enforcement activities, including: 

    • A breakdown of criminal charges and convictions of people detained since January 20, 2025
    • Number of deported individuals and their criminal offenses
    • How many individuals have proven ties to gangs, foreign terrorist organizations, or criminal enterprises
    • DHS arrest policy
    • How agents and officers identify themselves when approaching an individual to detain 
    • Arresting officers’ training
    • If arresting officers are federal agents.

    Earlier this year, Brownley also contacted DHS to express concerns about ICE actions in the community, but ICE has thus far refused to answer questions or provide details on its operations. Brownley continues pressing the Trump administration to adhere to DHS’ mission and act “with honor and integrity to safeguard the American people, our homeland, and our values.”

    The letter was also signed by Representatives Val Hoyle (D-OR), Henry C. “Hank” Johnson (D-GA), Yvette Clarke (D-NY), Bennie Thompson (D-MS), Brad Sherman (D-CA), Paul Tonko (D-NY), Danny Davis (D-IL), Maxine Dexter (D-OR), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), John Garamendi (D-CA), Jim Costa (D-CA), Shri Thanedar (D-MI), Linda Sanchez (D-CA), Juan Vargas (D-CA), Raul Ruiz (D-CA), Andre Carson (D-IN), Darren Soto (D-FL), Eleanor Norton (D-DC), Sylvia Garcia (D-TX), Timothy Kennedy (D-NY), and Brittany Pettersen (D-CO).

    The full letter can be found here and below:

    The Honorable Kristi Noem
    Secretary
    Department of Homeland Security
    Washington, D.C. 20528

    Secretary Noem:

    We write to express serious concern with this administration’s chilling actions of rounding up and arresting individuals with no criminal history and doing so without the transparency as to why the individuals are being arrested. The lack of accountability and transparency from this administration is of grave concern to the citizens of this country. Not only are Members of Congress concerned with the lack of transparency, accountability, and its immigration actions, but the majority of the American people do not agree with this administration’s actions either.

    President Trump initially promised to go after the worst of the worst in his immigration policy. Similarly, you recently went on Fox News and claimed you were going after the worst of the worst. However, the actions of this administration and your DHS show you are not focused on arresting dangerous criminals like murderers, rapists and drug dealers. Instead, you are sending masked individuals who do not identify themselves as law enforcement to arrest college and high school students, restaurant workers, factory workers, and even American children, some of whom have cancer which is beyond heartless. The scope of your enforcement activities has grown so large to include migrant workers and tourists with visas, that you are unable to effectively focus on arresting dangerous criminals, which makes our country less safe.

    Even though President Trump has finally acknowledged his immigration policies are harming individuals and businesses, particularly farmers, and those in the hotel and leisure business which is further damaging our once strong economy – we fear this administration will not learn from their mistakes. White House officials have said they hope U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) can scale up to 3,000 arrests a day, from approximately 660 during the first 100 days of Trump’s presidency. Since these numbers cannot be achieved without arresting non-criminals, it appears this administration will continue arresting hardworking individuals who pose no threat to our communities. It also appears this is why DHS has eliminated any transparency efforts regarding migrant arrests. For an administration that claims to be the most transparent in history, you have contributed to being the least transparent this country has ever seen.

    This administration refuses to provide accurate data and details around what criminal record, if any, DHS components use to justify the arrest of an individual. After President Trump took office DHS stopped issuing detailed statistical reports on immigration enforcement, which makes it challenging to gauge the scope of your immigration crackdown.

    Since your administration will not provide transparent data, we must piecemeal different data sources to get an accurate picture of DHS’s enforcement efforts. For example, we look at The Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse – a project from Syracuse University that compiles immigration figures – which estimates that of the 51,302 people in ICE detention facilities as of June 1, about 44% had no criminal record aside from entering the US without permission. News outlets also report ICE detention statistics show the number of detainees arrested by ICE with no other criminal charges or convictions rose from about 860 in January to 7,800 this month – a more than 800% increase.

    And if we look at recent events and updates from ICE, the unnecessary and harmful immigration raids in Los Angeles saw the immigration arrests of 118 people, which DHS said included five gang members. While the agency has identified a handful of people with criminal histories, due to DHS refusing to provide more transparent details of their actions, it’s unclear how many of the 118 individuals have criminal histories.

    Sadly, this administration’s credibility is so badly damaged we cannot simply rely on the words coming from a DHS spokesperson or yourself that this administration is targeting the worst of the worst. The fact this administration has repeatedly misrepresented migrants’ criminal histories, lied to the American people by photoshopping gang tattoos on the body of individual they were illegally detaining, and having to reluctantly admit to clerical errors and software errors that resulted in arrests and deportations of migrants with no criminal history, we in Congress and the American people cannot trust the administration’s word that they are doing what they say. President Trump and his administration leadership have eroded the trust of the American people and Congress, and we must request all necessary pieces of information to get a truthful picture of your immigration enforcement activities.

    Therefore, given these concerns we request the following information by July 18, 2025:

    1. A breakdown of the criminal charges and convictions migrants that have been arrested and detained by a DHS component from January 20, 2025 to date.
    2. Of these individuals how many have been deported since January? Please provide a breakdown of their criminal offenses by category.
    3. How many of the individuals have been found by a court to have proven ties, not alleged ties without proof, to criminal enterprises, gangs, or Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTO)?
    4. What is the policy DHS components follow when deciding to arrest an individual? How are agents and officers deciding who to detain and arrest in public?
    5. How are agents and officers identifying themselves when they approach an individual to detain and or arrest in the streets?
    6. What type of training do arresting officers have?
    7. Are the arresting officers federal agents?

    Thank you for your attention to this matter. We must remind you of the DHS mission statement which is “With honor and integrity, we will safeguard the American people, our homeland, and our values.” It seems you have forgotten this, and we truly hope you reverse course and start leading with integrity and honor while working to keep us safe.

    ###

    Issues: 119th Congress, Immigration

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Brownley, Correa Demand Transparency from Secretary Noem on ICE and DHS Overreach

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Julia Brownley (D-CA)

    Washington, DC – This week, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA) joined Congressman Lou Correa (D-CA) and 21 House Democrats in pressing U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem on the alarming actions of federal agents in California, including Ventura, Los Angeles, and Orange Counties. In a letter to Secretary Noem, the Members expressed deep concerns about the Trump Administration’s lack of transparency in the agency’s recent immigration enforcement operations and activities, including the detention of individuals with no criminal record. The letter strongly condemns the administration’s overreach and demands immediate transparency.

    “President Trump initially promised to go after the worst of the worst in his immigration policy,” wrote the Members. “However the actions of this administration and your DHS show you are not interested in arresting dangerous criminals like murderers, rapists, and drug dealers. Instead, you are sending masked individuals who do not identify themselves as law enforcement to arrest college and high school students, restaurant workers, factory workers, and even American children.”

    “This administration refuses to provide accurate details around what criminal record, if any, DHS components use to justify the arrest of an individual,” wrote the members. 

    A recent analysis by the Los Angeles Times found that 69% of individuals detained by ICE had no criminal convictions. In their letter, the Members demanded DHS to provide immediate and accurate information on their immigration enforcement activities, including: 

    • A breakdown of criminal charges and convictions of people detained since January 20, 2025
    • Number of deported individuals and their criminal offenses
    • How many individuals have proven ties to gangs, foreign terrorist organizations, or criminal enterprises
    • DHS arrest policy
    • How agents and officers identify themselves when approaching an individual to detain 
    • Arresting officers’ training
    • If arresting officers are federal agents.

    Earlier this year, Brownley also contacted DHS to express concerns about ICE actions in the community, but ICE has thus far refused to answer questions or provide details on its operations. Brownley continues pressing the Trump administration to adhere to DHS’ mission and act “with honor and integrity to safeguard the American people, our homeland, and our values.”

    The letter was also signed by Representatives Val Hoyle (D-OR), Henry C. “Hank” Johnson (D-GA), Yvette Clarke (D-NY), Bennie Thompson (D-MS), Brad Sherman (D-CA), Paul Tonko (D-NY), Danny Davis (D-IL), Maxine Dexter (D-OR), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), John Garamendi (D-CA), Jim Costa (D-CA), Shri Thanedar (D-MI), Linda Sanchez (D-CA), Juan Vargas (D-CA), Raul Ruiz (D-CA), Andre Carson (D-IN), Darren Soto (D-FL), Eleanor Norton (D-DC), Sylvia Garcia (D-TX), Timothy Kennedy (D-NY), and Brittany Pettersen (D-CO).

    The full letter can be found here and below:

    The Honorable Kristi Noem
    Secretary
    Department of Homeland Security
    Washington, D.C. 20528

    Secretary Noem:

    We write to express serious concern with this administration’s chilling actions of rounding up and arresting individuals with no criminal history and doing so without the transparency as to why the individuals are being arrested. The lack of accountability and transparency from this administration is of grave concern to the citizens of this country. Not only are Members of Congress concerned with the lack of transparency, accountability, and its immigration actions, but the majority of the American people do not agree with this administration’s actions either.

    President Trump initially promised to go after the worst of the worst in his immigration policy. Similarly, you recently went on Fox News and claimed you were going after the worst of the worst. However, the actions of this administration and your DHS show you are not focused on arresting dangerous criminals like murderers, rapists and drug dealers. Instead, you are sending masked individuals who do not identify themselves as law enforcement to arrest college and high school students, restaurant workers, factory workers, and even American children, some of whom have cancer which is beyond heartless. The scope of your enforcement activities has grown so large to include migrant workers and tourists with visas, that you are unable to effectively focus on arresting dangerous criminals, which makes our country less safe.

    Even though President Trump has finally acknowledged his immigration policies are harming individuals and businesses, particularly farmers, and those in the hotel and leisure business which is further damaging our once strong economy – we fear this administration will not learn from their mistakes. White House officials have said they hope U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) can scale up to 3,000 arrests a day, from approximately 660 during the first 100 days of Trump’s presidency. Since these numbers cannot be achieved without arresting non-criminals, it appears this administration will continue arresting hardworking individuals who pose no threat to our communities. It also appears this is why DHS has eliminated any transparency efforts regarding migrant arrests. For an administration that claims to be the most transparent in history, you have contributed to being the least transparent this country has ever seen.

    This administration refuses to provide accurate data and details around what criminal record, if any, DHS components use to justify the arrest of an individual. After President Trump took office DHS stopped issuing detailed statistical reports on immigration enforcement, which makes it challenging to gauge the scope of your immigration crackdown.

    Since your administration will not provide transparent data, we must piecemeal different data sources to get an accurate picture of DHS’s enforcement efforts. For example, we look at The Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse – a project from Syracuse University that compiles immigration figures – which estimates that of the 51,302 people in ICE detention facilities as of June 1, about 44% had no criminal record aside from entering the US without permission. News outlets also report ICE detention statistics show the number of detainees arrested by ICE with no other criminal charges or convictions rose from about 860 in January to 7,800 this month – a more than 800% increase.

    And if we look at recent events and updates from ICE, the unnecessary and harmful immigration raids in Los Angeles saw the immigration arrests of 118 people, which DHS said included five gang members. While the agency has identified a handful of people with criminal histories, due to DHS refusing to provide more transparent details of their actions, it’s unclear how many of the 118 individuals have criminal histories.

    Sadly, this administration’s credibility is so badly damaged we cannot simply rely on the words coming from a DHS spokesperson or yourself that this administration is targeting the worst of the worst. The fact this administration has repeatedly misrepresented migrants’ criminal histories, lied to the American people by photoshopping gang tattoos on the body of individual they were illegally detaining, and having to reluctantly admit to clerical errors and software errors that resulted in arrests and deportations of migrants with no criminal history, we in Congress and the American people cannot trust the administration’s word that they are doing what they say. President Trump and his administration leadership have eroded the trust of the American people and Congress, and we must request all necessary pieces of information to get a truthful picture of your immigration enforcement activities.

    Therefore, given these concerns we request the following information by July 18, 2025:

    1. A breakdown of the criminal charges and convictions migrants that have been arrested and detained by a DHS component from January 20, 2025 to date.
    2. Of these individuals how many have been deported since January? Please provide a breakdown of their criminal offenses by category.
    3. How many of the individuals have been found by a court to have proven ties, not alleged ties without proof, to criminal enterprises, gangs, or Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTO)?
    4. What is the policy DHS components follow when deciding to arrest an individual? How are agents and officers deciding who to detain and arrest in public?
    5. How are agents and officers identifying themselves when they approach an individual to detain and or arrest in the streets?
    6. What type of training do arresting officers have?
    7. Are the arresting officers federal agents?

    Thank you for your attention to this matter. We must remind you of the DHS mission statement which is “With honor and integrity, we will safeguard the American people, our homeland, and our values.” It seems you have forgotten this, and we truly hope you reverse course and start leading with integrity and honor while working to keep us safe.

    ###

    Issues: 119th Congress, Immigration

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police locate offender after unit rammed

    Source: New Zealand Police

    An Auckland man faces a slew of charges after allegedly repeatedly ramming a Police vehicle in the early hours of Tuesday.

    Police have been investigating since the incident occurred during a traffic stop in Mt Wellington at around 2.20am on 8 July.

    Relieving Counties Manukau East Area Commander, Inspector Rakana Cook, says the stolen vehicle was seen running a red light near Carbine Road.

    “One of our frontline units signalled this vehicle to stop, and after driving erratically it came to a stop,” he says.

    “It’s at this point the four-wheel drive was allegedly used to repeatedly ram our patrol vehicle before fleeing the scene.”

    Fortunately, no Police staff were injured.

    A determined Police investigation was soon underway with positive lines of enquiry on the driver.

    “Our enquiries led a team of Police to an address on Puhinui Road in Papatoetoe yesterday evening, locating the person of interest,” he says.

    “The man attempted to flee on foot from our staff but he was all out of options.”

    The 44-year-old man was arrested.

    Inspector Cook says the man faces serious charges in the Manukau District Court today.

    Those charges include two counts of assault with a blunt instrument, resisting Police, failing to stop, unlawfully taking a vehicle and reckless driving.

    “We have no tolerance for such reckless and violent behaviour directed at our staff,” Inspector Cook says.

    “I’d like to acknowledge our staff involved who were going about their duties in keeping our community safe.”

    ENDS.

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Helio Highlights: May 2025

    Source: NASA

    The Sun is 93 million miles away from Earth, on average. Even though it’s far away, we can still see and feel its effects here. One of the most beautiful effects are the auroras – colorful lights that dance across the sky near the North and South Poles. These are also called the Northern and Southern Lights. They happen when tiny particles from the Sun hit gas molecules in our atmosphere and give off energy.
    Sometimes the Sun becomes very active and sends out a lot more energy than normal. When this happens, we can see auroras in places much farther from the poles than normal. In May 2024, around Mother’s Day, the Sun sent powerful solar storms in the direction of Earth. These storms were also called the Gannon Storms, named after Jennifer Gannon, a scientist who studied space weather. The Northern Lights could be seen as far south as Puerto Rico, Hawaii, Mexico, Jamaica, and the Bahamas. The Southern Lights were also visible as far north as South Africa and New Zealand.

    Scientists who study the Sun and its effects on our solar system work in a field called heliophysics. Their studies of the Sun have shown that it goes through cycles of being more active and less active. Each one of these cycles lasts about 11 years, but can be anywhere from 8 to 14 years long. This is called the Solar Cycle.
    The middle of each cycle is called Solar Maximum. During this time, the Sun has more dark spots (called sunspots) and creates more space weather events. The big storms in May 2024 happened during the Solar Maximum for Solar Cycle 25.
    On May 8 and 9, 2024, an active area on the Sun called AR3664 shot out powerful solar flares and several huge bursts of energy called coronal mass ejections (CMEs). These CMEs headed straight for Earth. The first CME pushed aside the normal solar wind, making a clear path for the others to reach us faster. When all this energy hit our atmosphere, it created auroras much farther from the poles than usual. It was like the Sun gave the auroras a huge power boost!

    Auroras are beautiful to watch, but the space weather that creates them can also cause problems. Space weather can mess up radio signals, power grids, GPS systems, and satellites. During the May 2024 storms, GPS systems used by farmers were disrupted. Many farmers use GPS to guide their self-driving tractors. Since this happened during peak planting season, it may have cost billions of dollars in lost profit.
    Because space weather can cause so many problems, scientists at NASA and around the world watch the Sun closely to predict when these events will happen. You can help too! Join local science projects at schools, teach others about the Sun, and help make observations in your area. All of this helps us to learn more about the Sun and how it affects our planet.
    Here are some resources to connect you to the Sun and auroras

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Stellar Duo

    Source: NASA

    NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope captured a bright variable star, V 372 Orionis, and its companion in this festive image in this image released on Jan. 27, 2023. The pair lie in the Orion Nebula, a colossal region of star formation roughly 1,450 light-years from Earth.
    V 372 Orionis is a particular type of variable star known as an Orion Variable. These young stars experience some tempestuous moods and growing pains, which are visible to astronomers as irregular variations in luminosity. Orion Variables are often associated with diffuse nebulae, and V 372 Orionis is no exception; the patchy gas and dust of the Orion Nebula pervade this scene.
    Text credit: European Space Agency (ESA)
    Image credit: ESA/Hubble & NASA, J. Bally, M. Robberto

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Two Weeks Left to Apply for Disaster Assistance for South Texas Severe Storms and Flooding

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Two Weeks Left to Apply for Disaster Assistance for South Texas Severe Storms and Flooding

    Two Weeks Left to Apply for Disaster Assistance for South Texas Severe Storms and Flooding

    AUSTIN, Texas – South Texas residents who have been affected by the March severe storms and flooding have two weeks left to apply for disaster assistance

    Homeowners and renters in Cameron, Hidalgo, Starr and Willacy counties who were displaced or have property damage from the March 26-28 storms have until Tuesday, July 22, 2025, to apply for FEMA Assistance

     To date, more than $70

    5 million in state and federal assistance has been approved for South Texas survivors

    This includes: $39

    2 million for Housing Assistance and $31

    3 million for Other Needs Assistance

    There are many types of assistance available for survivors with uninsured losses

    Assistance may include money for rent, home repair or replacement, vehicle damage, medical expenses, moving and storage, and temporary housing

    While FEMA cannot duplicate insurance payments, it may be able to help where insurance did not

    File your insurance claim first, then apply for FEMA Assistance

    There are several ways to apply or check the status of your application:The fastest is by going online to DisasterAssistance

    govDownload the FEMA App for mobile devices Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 between 6 a

    m

    and 10 p

    m

    CT

    Help is available in most languages

    Visit a Disaster Recovery Center for in person support

    To find a center close to you, go online to: DRC Locator, or text DRC along with your Zip Code to 43362 (Ex: DRC 78552)

     To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance – YouTubeResidents and businesses in the four eligible counties can also apply for a low-interest disaster loan from the U

    S

    Small Business Administration (SBA) to help recover

    Texas residents can apply for a disaster loan online at SBA

    gov/disaster or by calling 800-659-2955

     To find a Texas location for in-person assistance, visit appointment

    sba

    gov/schedule/

    No appointment is necessary

    The filing deadline to return applications for SBA low interest disaster loans physical property damage due to the March severe storms and flooding is July 22, 2025

    For the latest information about Texas’ recovery, visit fema

    gov/disaster/4871

    Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x

    com/FEMARegion6 and at facebook

    com/FEMARegion6
    toan

    nguyen
    Tue, 07/08/2025 – 14:43

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Cheatham and Dickson Counties

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Cheatham and Dickson Counties

    Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Cheatham and Dickson Counties

    Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers are now open in Cheatham and Dickson counties to assist Tennesseans who experienced damage or loss from the April 2-24 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding

     Cheatham County: Kingston Springs City Hall, 396 Spring Street, Kingston Springs, TN 37082Hours: 8 a

    m

    -3:30 p

    m

    CT Today; 8:00 a

    m

    -6:00 p

    m

    Wednesday-Saturday

    Closed Sunday Dickson County: Dickson County Government Building, 303 Henslee Drive, Dickson, TN 37005Hours: 8 a

    m

    –6 p

    m

    CT Tuesday-Friday; Saturday 9:00 a

    m

    -1:00 p

    m

    Closed SundayWhen the above recovery centers move to a new location or a new recovery center opens, details will be provided to the public

    To find a center near you, visit fema

    gov/drc

    Homeowners and renters in Cheatham, Davidson, Dickson, Dyer, Hardeman, McNairy, Montgomery, Obion and Wilson counties can apply for FEMA assistance at a recovery center

    FEMA representatives will help with applications for federal assistance and provide information about other disaster recovery resources

      The deadline to apply for assistance is Aug

    19

    FEMA financial assistance may include money for basic home repairs or other uninsured, disaster-related needs, such as childcare, vehicle, medical needs, funeral expenses or the replacement of personal property

    In addition to FEMA personnel, representatives from the U

    S

    Small Business Administration and state agencies will be available to assist survivors

    It is not necessary to go to a center to apply for FEMA assistance

    Apply online at DisasterAssistance

    gov, use the FEMA App for mobile devices or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362

    Lines are open seven days a week and specialists speak many languages

    To view an accessible video on how to apply, visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance – YouTube

    kwei

    nwaogu
    Tue, 07/08/2025 – 15:07

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Two Weeks Left to Apply for Federal Assistance for April Storms

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Two Weeks Left to Apply for Federal Assistance for April Storms

    Two Weeks Left to Apply for Federal Assistance for April Storms

    LITTLE ROCK, Ark

    – Time is running out

    Only two weeks are left for homeowners, renters and businesses to apply for federal disaster assistance if you had damage or losses in the April 2-22 severe storms, tornadoes and flooding in Arkansas

    You may qualify for federal assistance if you are a resident of Clark, Clay, Craighead, Crittenden, Desha, Fulton, Greene, Hot Spring, Jackson, Miller, Ouachita, Pulaski, Randolph, St

    Francis, Saline, Sharp or White County

    Disaster survivors are encouraged to file insurance claims for damage or losses to their primary homes, personal property and vehicles before applying for FEMA assistance

     FEMA grants do not have to be repaid and FEMA assistance is not taxable and will not affect eligibility for Social Security, Medicaid or other federal benefits

    FEMA assistance may include rental assistance, lodging expenses reimbursement, home repair assistance, and home replacement assistance

    The Individual Assistance program is designed to help you with basic home repair costs and temporary housing if you are unable to live in your home while you look for a long-term or permanent housing solution

     You may qualify for FEMA disaster assistance even if you have insurance

    However, you will need to file a claim with your insurance carrier and submit the insurance settlement or denial letter to FEMA

    By law, FEMA cannot pay for losses covered by your insurance

    Low-interest disaster loans from the U

    S

    Small Business Administration are also available to Arkansas residents, businesses of all sizes and nonprofit organizations that are recovering from the April storms

    To apply to SBA or to download an application, go to SBA

    gov/disaster

    You may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 or email DisasterCustomerService@sba

    gov

    The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance or an SBA loan for physical property damage is Tuesday, July 22
    toan

    nguyen
    Tue, 07/08/2025 – 14:28

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DHS Releases Names of Worst of the Worst Convicted Criminal Illegal Aliens Detained at Guantanamo Bay

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: DHS Releases Names of Worst of the Worst Convicted Criminal Illegal Aliens Detained at Guantanamo Bay

    lass=”text-align-center”>Pedophiles, murderers, kidnappers, and other violent criminals are being held at the military facility
    WASHINGTON – The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today released the names of some of the dangerous, criminal illegal aliens detained at the Guantanamo Bay

      
    “We’re arresting criminal illegal aliens and getting them off America’s streets

    Guantanamo Bay is holding the worst of the worst including child predators, rapists and murderers,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin

    “Whether it is CECOT, Alligator Alcatraz, Guantanamo Bay or another detention facility, these dangerous criminals will not be allowed to terrorize U

    S

    citizens

    President Trump and Secretary Noem are using every tool available to get criminal illegal aliens off our streets and out of our country

    Our message is clear: Criminals are not welcome in the United States

    ” 
    Below are examples of nearly 30 high-threat, violent criminal illegal aliens that have committed heinous crimes and are detained at Guantanamo Bay

    These dangerous illegal aliens are convicted criminals with final orders of removal from an immigration judge

    Olma Juarez-Mendez, an illegal alien from Guatemala, has been convicted of domestic abuse

    Hung Vo, an illegal alien from Vietnam, has been convicted of robbery with a weapon

    Quan Phung, an illegal alien from Vietnam, has been convicted of aggravated assault with a weapon

    Andis Noe Cortes Zepeda, an illegal alien from Honduras, has been convicted of sexual assault

    Antonio Erazo-Ramos, an illegal alien from Honduras, has been convicted of assault

    Xiang Liu, an illegal alien from China, has been convicted of robbery

    Jin Feng Lu, an illegal alien from China, has been convicted of homicide

    Hieu Tran, an illegal alien from Vietnam, has been convicted of robbery

    Shubham Singh, an illegal alien from India, has been convicted of child pornography

    Franklin Almendarez-Alvarez, an illegal alien from Honduras, has been convicted of lewd acts with a minor

    Ramiro Villanueva, an illegal alien from Colombia, has been convicted of smuggling cocaine

    Tien Minh Cao, an illegal alien from Vietnam, has been convicted of kidnapping

    Khang Huy Trang, an illegal alien from Vietnam, has been convicted of kidnapping for ransom

    Carlos Olivo Orellana, an illegal alien from El Salvador, has been convicted of lewd acts with a minor

    Wen Lin, an illegal alien from China, has been convicted of robbery

    Guillermo Gonzales-Tiul, an illegal alien from Guatemala, has been convicted of assault

    Yong Liang, an illegal alien from China, has been convicted of kidnapping

    Luis Fernando Ospina Tabarez, an illegal alien from Colombia, has been convicted of smuggling heroin

    Ilie Bogde, an illegal alien from Romania, has been convicted of robbery

    Jose Diego Pereira Valdez, and illegal alien from El Salvador, has been convicted of aggravated assault with a gun

    Larry Medina, an illegal alien from Venezuela, has been convicted of sexual assault

    Brayan Vasquez-Montero, an illegal alien from Colombia, has been convicted of aggravated assault with a weapon

    Nathaniel Akeen, an illegal alien from Liberia, has been convicted of robbery

    Eric Gresford Miller, an illegal alien from Jamaica, has been convicted of aggravated assault with a gun

    Nigel Tomlinson, an illegal alien from the United Kingdom, has been convicted of child sexual abuse

    Victor Bonilla-Alvarez, an illegal alien from El Salvador, has been convicted of trafficking weapons

    On January 29, 2025, President Donald J

    Trump signed an executive order, Expanding Migrant Operations Center at Naval Station Guantanamo Bay to Full Capacity, directing Secretary Noem to expand the Migrant Operations Center at Naval Station Guantanamo Bay to provide additional detention space for high-priority criminal aliens illegally present in the United States

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: At a Glance – Mercosur: Economic indicators and trade with EU – 08-07-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    This infographic provides insight into the economic performance of Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay with the European Union (EU) and examines the trade dynamics among them. With the exception of Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay have all experienced GDP growth exceeding 3%. Inflation trends are similar as Argentina continues to face hyperinflation at a rate of 219.9%, while Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay are moving toward more stable price levels after significant increases recorded between 2021 and 2022. Among the four analysed Mercosur countries, the EU27 stands as the second-largest trade partner after China. Collectively, these countries rank as the tenth-largest trading partners for the EU27. Both trade in goods and services between the EU27 and the four countries have been growing since 2020.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Use of EU funds for educational activities on ‘gender’ aimed at primary school children – E-002655/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002655/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Susanna Ceccardi (PfE)

    As part of the ‘GEnder BUdgeting e DIffusione della CUltura di Genere’ project, organised by the University of Florence in partnership with the Metropolitan City of Florence and co-financed by the European Union, pupils in the fourth year of primary school are involved in educational activities addressing issues related to ‘gender’, ‘appreciating diversity’, ‘inclusion of LGBTQIA+ individuals’ and ‘deconstructing stereotypes’.

    The aim of this project is to influence language, the perception of gender roles and the recognition of ‘hostile behaviour’ through questionnaires, play-based workshops and educational materials aimed at young children whose sense of self is still developing.

    In light of the above:

    • 1.Is the Commission aware of this project and the use of EU funds for educational activities on ‘gender identity’ aimed at primary school children?
    • 2.What monitoring tools does the Commission employ to ensure that use of EU funds in educational projects does not result in ideological indoctrination of minors?
    • 3.Does the Commission believe the funding of initiatives that promote controversial ideological views in the school environment, without prior and informed parental consent, is compatible with the principles of subsidiarity and educational freedom, as well as with Article 14 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union?

    Submitted: 1.7.2025

    Last updated: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Council Decision (CFSP) 2025/996 of 20 May 2025 as regards Hüseyin Doğru – P-002725/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-002725/2025
    to the Council
    Rule 144
    Michael von der Schulenburg (NI)

    Council Decision (CFSP) 2025/966 of 20 May 2025 amending Decision (CFSP) 2024/2643 concerning restrictive measures in view of Russia’s destabilising activities adds 21 natural persons and six legal persons, entities or bodies to the list of natural and legal persons, entities or bodies set out in the Annex to Decision (CFSP) 2024/2643, one of whom is Hüseyin Doğru.

    • 1.Was the inclusion of Hüseyin Doğru in the list of natural and legal persons, entities and bodies set out in the Annex to Decision (CFSP) 2024/2643 prompted by a Member State and, if so, by which one?
    • 2.Does the Council or a Member State have concrete information on Hüseyin Doğru’s financial and organisational links with organisations and actors of state propaganda in Russia and, if so, what information?
    • 3.What hybrid activities led to the Council’s decision to include Hüseyin Doğru on the above-mentioned list?

    Submitted: 3.7.2025

    Last updated: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Information on the EU infringement procedure against Italy for failure to transpose Directive (EU) 2021/555 on firearms – E-002677/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002677/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Giuseppe Antoci (The Left)

    The Commission recently sent a letter of formal notice to Italy (procedure INFR(2025)2070) for failing to transpose Directive (EU) 2021/555 laying down strict rules on the control and traceability of civilian firearms in the European Union.

    The Directive is designed to harmonise the laws of the Member States with a view to combating illicit arms trafficking and ensuring greater security for the European public. The deadline for full transposition was 31 January 2023, but Italy has not yet completed this legislative process.

    Given the importance of the Directive in preventing criminal activities and ensuring greater public security across Europe, can the Commission state what its views are of the response provided by the Italian authorities under procedure INFR(2025)2070 and say what steps it considers need to be taken for Italy to correctly transpose Directive (EU) 2021/555?

    Submitted: 1.7.2025

    Last updated: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Returns of migrants from detention centres in Albania and breach of Directive 2008/115/EC by the Italian Government – E-002653/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002653/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Alessandro Zan (S&D), Cecilia Strada (S&D), Sandro Ruotolo (S&D), Lucia Annunziata (S&D), Brando Benifei (S&D), Annalisa Corrado (S&D), Giorgio Gori (S&D), Marco Tarquinio (S&D), Elisabetta Gualmini (S&D), Alessandra Moretti (S&D), Nicola Zingaretti (S&D), Pina Picierno (S&D), Stefano Bonaccini (S&D), Giuseppe Lupo (S&D), Camilla Laureti (S&D), Pierfrancesco Maran (S&D), Matteo Ricci (S&D), Raffaele Topo (S&D), Dario Nardella (S&D), Leoluca Orlando (Verts/ALE), Ilaria Salis (The Left), Cristina Guarda (Verts/ALE), Benedetta Scuderi (Verts/ALE), Mimmo Lucano (The Left), Ignazio Roberto Marino (Verts/ALE), Pasquale Tridico (The Left), Carolina Morace (The Left), Gaetano Pedulla’ (The Left), Mario Furore (The Left), Valentina Palmisano (The Left), Danilo Della Valle (The Left)

    On 9 May 2025, the Italian Government carried out the first repatriation of five Egyptian nationals directly from Albania, taking them from the Gjadër detention centre for repatriation and putting them onto a flight to Cairo, without any Italian judicial oversight at the transfer stage and in the absence of clear regulatory coverage[1].

    There are serious doubts as to whether these actions are compatible with Directive 2008/115/EC on returns and with the principles enshrined in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, in particular with the right to an effective remedy and the protection of fundamental rights.

    The Italian Court of Cassation has questioned the compatibility of the extraterritorial management of detentions and returns at the centres in Albania, indicating that such centres are not considered to be on Italian or EU territory. It has raised the issue with the Court of Justice of the European Union.

    The Commission has already said that the extraterritorial management of returns has no basis in EU law.

    In light of the above:

    • 1.Is the Commission aware of what happened on 9 May 2025?
    • 2.Does it consider this action by the Italian Government to be in line with the EU legislation in force? If not, where is there a conflict?
    • 3.Will it take action to ensure full compliance with EU law on returns and also uniform application of EU migration and asylum rules?

    Supporter[2]

    Submitted: 1.7.2025

    • [1] https://altreconomia.it/il-primo-rimpatrio-italiano-di-migranti-irregolari-direttamente-dallalbania/.
    • [2] This question is supported by a Member other than the authors: Dario Tamburrano (The Left)

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Impact of the rise of artificial intelligence on translation services – E-002680/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002680/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Fernand Kartheiser (NI)

    Artificial intelligence is progressing rapidly, including in the field of translation. Specialised tools are already widely used in the translation services of the Commission and other EU institutions.

    These tools enable translators to work more efficiently, but they still have to check the texts produced to ensure that they are reliable and of sufficient quality.

    • 1.Will the Commission ensure that translators’ jobs are sustainable in spite of AI developments, or will it cut staff numbers?
    • 2.Can it guarantee that humans will continue to verify the quality of the services provided and that it will not introduce fully automated translation workflows?
    • 3.Will it support the development of AI for the smaller official languages?

    Submitted: 2.7.2025

    Last updated: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Escalation in commercialisation of cultural heritage sites – E-001798/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The European Commission supports the accessibility for all cultural heritage and will work to improve access to cultural heritage, with a special focus on young people. One of the first steps will be to develop a Culture Compass which will improve the strategic framework for culture at the EU level.

    The New European Agenda for Culture, adopted by the Commission in 2018[1], provides the framework for cooperation on culture at the EU level. It highlights the positive contribution of culture to European society and social cohesion, as well as to the economy and international relations.

    The Commission supports the preservation of cultural heritage in Europe through its funding programmes and dedicated actions such as the European Heritage Awards, the European Heritage Days and the European Heritage Label.

    Under Article 167 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, the EU’s role is limited to encourage cooperation and to support and supplement Member States’ actions in the field of culture and cultural heritage.

    The Commission has no say in the management of, or access to, cultural heritage sites in the Member States.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:52018DC0267.
    Last updated: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Foreign interference in Hungary and recommendations on the transparency of foreign-funded non-governmental organisations – P-002264/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The organisation and conduct of elections are the competence and responsibility of the Member States, in accordance with their national constitutional rules and legislation, as well as their international obligations and applicable EU law. National authorities and courts are primarily responsible for ensuring compliance with the applicable rules.

    The Commission supports Member States on electoral matters, mainly through the framework of the European Coordination Network on Elections.

    This brings together national authorities with competence in electoral matters and facilitates the exchanges of information and best practices.

    Different EU rules are relevant in national electoral contexts within the EU. In particular, the new Regulation 2024/900 on the transparency and targeting of political advertising[1], which will become fully applicable from October 2025, will increase transparency, address disinformation, and prevent funding of political advertisements from third country sponsors three months preceding elections.

    In addition, in 2023, the Commission published a recommendation on inclusive and resilient electoral processes in the EU[2]. The Commission has also put forward a proposal for a directive on establishing harmonised requirements in the internal market on transparency of interest representation carried out on behalf of third countries.[3]

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/900/oj/eng.
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reco/2023/2829/oj/eng.
    • [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:52023PC0637.
    Last updated: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Prosecution of infringements of the Transport Regulation on the protection of animals during transport and related operations – E-001752/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. Current EU legislation on the protection of animals during transport[1] requires Member States to impose penalties if necessary. An overview of their enforcement actions is regularly made publicly available by Member States, but this information is not detailed enough for the Commission to identify specific cases, such as penalties imposed following the notification of infringement through a journey log.

    2. According to the Official Controls Regulation (OCR)[2], it is the responsibility of Member States to take the appropriate actions in the event of non-compliances established by their risk-based controls, including controls of journey logs submitted within one month after the journey concerned has been completed. In the case of a non-compliance that concerns more than one Member State, the OCR contains detailed rules and procedures for administrative assistance and cooperation, which require, among others, to inform the competent authority of the Member State concerned[3]. The Commission has recently launched a Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (iRASFF) animal welfare module, which constitutes the IT tool that Member States must use to implement certain provisions of the OCR on administrative assistance and cooperation[4]. Filing a non-compliance in this module requires the notified Member States to take certain obligatory actions[5], including actions to ensure compliance with the rules on the protection of animals during transport.

    3. In its proposal for a regulation on the protection of animals during transport, the Commission introduces a new approach to harmonise sanctions in case of infringements of the rules on animal transport[6]. The debate is ongoing. The Commission remains open to work with the co-legislators in this area.

    • [1] Council Regulation (EC) No 1/2005 of 22 December 2004 on the protection of animals during transport and related operations, OJ L 3, 5.1.2005, p. 1-44.
    • [2] Regulation (EU) 2017/625 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 March 2017 on official controls and other official activities performed to ensure the application of food and feed law, rules on animal health and welfare, plant health and plant protection products (Official Controls Regulation), OJ L 95, 7.4.2017, p. 1-142.
    • [3] See in particular Title IV of the Official Controls Regulation.
    • [4] In particular, Articles 105 and 106 of the Official Controls Regulation.
    • [5] Article 50 of Regulation (EC) No 178/2002 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 January 2002 laying down the general principles and requirements of food law, establishing the European Food Safety Authority and laying down procedures in matters of food safety and Articles 102 to 108 of Regulation (EU) 2017/625.
    • [6] Chapter IX ‘Sanctions’, Proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the protection of animals during transport and related operations, COM/2023/770 final.
    Last updated: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Impact of strengthened controls on Brazilian black pepper: unfair competition for Italian and European spice processors – E-001849/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Available statistics show a significant decrease of EU imports of Brazilian pepper either crushed or ground over the last three years. However, statistical data do not indicate the quantity of Brazilian pepper contained in spice mixtures imported into the EU from other third countries.

    A Commission priority is to ensure a strong and effective protection of human, animal, and plant health, which may comprise related aspects provided in the Commission Notice[1] on the evaluation of risks, on a case-by-case basis.

    Article 11 of Regulation (EC) No 178/2002[2] requires that food and feed imported for placing it on the market within the EU comply with the relevant requirements of food law.

    Regulation (EU) 2019/1793[3] lays down the list of food and feed of non-animal origin subject to a temporary increase of official controls or special conditions upon their entry into the EU, aiming to enhance food safety and thus public health by ensuring compliance with EU agri-food legislation. Black pepper (piper nigrum) originating from Brazil is listed in that regulation due to possible contamination by Salmonella.

    When a consignment of pepper is declared as non-compliant due to a presence of Salmonella exceeding the criteria laid down in EU legislation, Article 66 of Regulation (EU) 2017/625[4] provides that the consignment must be destroyed, re-dispatched outside the EU or subject to special treatment. This is a safety measure to protect the health of EU consumers.

    The compliance level of Brazilian peppers observed in 2024 was satisfactory.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=oj:JOC_2022_265_R_0001.
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2002/178/oj/eng.
    • [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg_impl/2019/1793/oj.
    • [4] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2017/625/oj.
    Last updated: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Managing illegal migration: controls on NGO funding and action – E-001717/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission and the EU Agencies are providing financial, technical and operational support to Greece to address the challenges it faces in migration and border management[1].

    The Commission conducts audits and on-the-spot checks to ensure that funds from the EU budget are spent in line with the applicable rules[2], and generate Union added value[3]. Member States’ authorities are responsible for selecting the projects to finance in accordance with the relevant EU rules.

    Non-governmental organisations and international organisations are audited as part of the Commission audit procedures[4]. If the Commission discovers deficiencies, it can intervene by interrupting or suspending payments to beneficiaries or Member States.

    If at a later stage the Commission spots any wrongdoing, it can introduce financial corrections and recover the funds already paid. In the event of fraud, the European Anti-Fraud Office steps in to investigate, and, if it confirms that fraud has been committed with EU money, the Commission recovers the funds.

    With regards to regulating EU-funded activities, the current EU framework envisages effective mechanisms to ensure that the implementation of the EU budget is in compliance with the principle of sound financial management.

    • [1] The total amount of financial support under the EU Home Affairs Funds made available to Greece since 2015 is just over EUR 5 billion, while more than 1000 experts and officers are currently deployed in Greece on behalf of the EU Agency for Asylum (EUAA), the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex) and Europol, providing Greece with the means for an ambitious, robust and comprehensive migration management policy.
    • [2] Common Provisions Regulation (EU) 2021/1060, Home Affairs Funds Regulations (Regulations (EU) 2021/1147, 2021/1148/2021 and 2021/1149).
    • [3] In the case of the financial support under the Home Affairs Funds implemented in shared management, the Member States’ authorities are responsible for selecting the projects to finance in accordance with the relevant EU rules and assume responsibility for the day-to-day management and for ensuring that the actions supported by the Funds are implemented correctly and effectively.
    • [4] In accordance with Article 127 of the regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union (recast).
    Last updated: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Direct support schemes for bee-keeping under the CAP: access to finance and inclusion of the industry in strategic planning – E-002025/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The Commission recognises the importance of facilitating access to funding for small and medium-sized beekeepers, particularly in less-developed regions. While the implementation of the mandatory apiculture sectoral support under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) Strategic Plans rests with Member States, the Commission is continuously engaged with the latter to ensure that the available support measures are effectively implemented and adapted to address the needs of their beekeepers effectively. Under the CAP simplification package[1] presented by the Commission on 14 May 2025, payments per beehive will be allowed for agri-environment-climate commitments and eco-schemes providing Member States more flexibility to support their beekeepers.

    2. The Commission supports mechanisms for transparent and effective consultation with representatives of the apiculture sector. During the drawing up of the CAP Strategic Plans, Member States were required to collaborate with the representatives of organisations in the beekeeping field and they continue to be actively involved in the development and implementation of apiculture sectoral support. The Commission also facilitates dialogue and exchange of best practices among Member States to enhance stakeholder involvement.

    3. The continued support to beekeeping, together with the various policy initiatives to safeguard pollinators and their environment, will remain a key focus in the future under the CAP. The Commission will continue to engage with stakeholders and Member States to develop effective strategies to enhance the sustainability and resilience of the bee-keeping sector, considering its vital role for sustainable agriculture and the environment.

    • [1] https://webgate.ec.europa.eu/circabc-ewpp/d/d/workspace/SpacesStore/b595fc96-2988-44fb-86a5-4383cb070119/download.
    Last updated: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – The Greek islands’ lack of resilience to natural disasters and the need for sustainable spatial planning – E-001667/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. In 2021-2027, at least EUR 14.8 billion from Cohesion Policy funds is allocated to support islands, targeting competitiveness, green transition, better connectivity, housing, sustainable tourism and inclusive growth. Member States may also use these funds for disaster risk management, including flood prevention, response and resilience measures in islands, based on the national or subnational climate risk assessments. Greece, in particular, allocates EUR 726 million in public funding for flood risk prevention and management, including in insular areas, under the Cohesion Policy programmes. As per the shared management principle, national authorities are responsible for selecting and implementing projects. Furthermore, under the Greek Recovery and Resilience Plan[1], the reform for the preparation of urban plans addresses gaps in spatial planning and land use to promote sustainable economic activity and environmental protection.

    2. The Commission acknowledges the pressure from excessive tourism and construction in islands. However, the EU has no competence on construction policy.

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/business-economy-euro/economic-recovery/recovery-and-resilience-facility/country-pages/greeces-recovery-and-resilience-plan_en.
    Last updated: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Liver damage as a side effect of COVID-19 vaccination – E-001675/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The authorisation of COVID-19 vaccines is based on a thorough scientific assessment by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) about the vaccine quality, safety, and efficacy[1].

    Initially, COVID-19 vaccines were granted a conditional marketing authorisation (CMA)[2], a pathway used to expedite access to medicines addressing unmet needs, particularly during public health emergencies. A CMA requires the marketing authorisation holder to provide further data post-authorisation to confirm the benefit-risk balance.

    Following authorisation, all medicinal products authorised in the EU, are subject to continuous and rigorous safety monitoring, which was further enhanced for COVID-19 vaccines.

    The EU pharmacovigilance system detects, assesses, and addresses potential side effects[3], with the EMA’s safety Committee (PRAC)[4] analysing new risks that may emerge from various sources, including clinical practice, clinical studies, and medical literature.

    Current scientific data from over 13 billion COVID-19 vaccine doses administered worldwide shows a very good safety profile. Most adverse drug reactions are mild and short-lived.

    Serious effects are very rare[5] and thoroughly assessed. In 2022, PRAC concluded that there was no evidence supporting a causal link between mRNA COVID-19 vaccines and AIH[6].

    Each vaccine has published product information and an assessment report detailing all examined aspects[7]. If a reasonable possibility exists that a side effect is linked to the vaccine, it is included in the product information to ensure transparency for healthcare professionals and patients.

    • [1] Approval of vaccines in the EU: https://vaccination-info.europa.eu/en/about-vaccines/approval-vaccines-eu; COVID-19 vaccines: development, evaluation, approval and monitoring: https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/human-regulatory-overview/public-health-threats/coronavirus-disease-covid-19/covid-19-public-health-emergency-international-concern-2020-23/covid-19-vaccines-development-evaluation-approval-monitoring.
    • [2] Conditional marketing authorisation: https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/human-regulatory-overview/marketing-authorisation/conditional-marketing-authorisation.
    • [3] Pharmacovigilance: Overview: https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/human-regulatory-overview/pharmacovigilance-overview.
    • [4] Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee (PRAC): https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/committees/pharmacovigilance-risk-assessment-committee-prac.
    • [5] Safety of COVID-19 vaccines: https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/human-regulatory-overview/public-health-threats/coronavirus-disease-covid-19/covid-19-medicines/safety-covid-19-vaccines#suspected-side-effects-13834.
    • [6] Meeting highlights from the Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee (PRAC) 4-7 April 2022: https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/news/meeting-highlights-pharmacovigilance-risk-assessment-committee-prac-4-7-april-2022.
    • [7]  COVID-19 medicines: https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/human-regulatory-overview/public-health-threats/coronavirus-disease-covid-19/covid-19-medicines.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Workshops – Monitoring the Application of EU law – 15-07-2025 – Committee on Legal Affairs

    Source: European Parliament

    Monitoring EU law © European Parliament

    The Committee on Legal Affairs, with the support of the Policy Department for Justice, Civil Liberties and Institutional Affairs, is organizing a Workshop titled: Monitoring the Application of EU law. The event will take place on 15 July 2025, from 16:00 to 17:00.

    MIL OSI Europe News –