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Category: Economy

  • MIL-OSI: LIS Technologies Inc. Announces it is the Lead Sponsor of the United States Nuclear Industry Council’s – Advanced Reactor Summit XII with Chief Executive Officer Christo Liebenberg Scheduled to Present

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Oak Ridge, Tennessee, Feb. 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LIS Technologies Inc. (“LIST” or “the Company”), a proprietary developer of advanced laser technology and the only USA-origin and patented laser uranium enrichment company, today announced that it is the Platinum, Nuclear Titan and Summit Lead sponsor of the upcoming United States Nuclear Industry Council (USNIC) Advanced Reactor (AR) Summit XII, to be held in Salt Late City, Utah this month.

    LIST Chief Executive Officer Christo Liebenberg will lead a presentation titled “Lasers, Wafers and Nuclear – the story of LIS Technologies”, and will be highlighting the Company’s recent achievements and goals as it progresses towards eventual test loop demonstrations of its proprietary and patented CRISLA technology. Viktor Chikan Ph.D., LIS Technologies’ co-Chief Technology Officer and Jay Yu, Executive Chairman and President will also attend the summit.

    The AR Summit XII is focused on showcasing technology developers, supply chain leaders, commercial end users, and advancing solutions on the cost and deployment timeframe of advanced reactors, as well as practical ideas and concepts that have the potential of significantly improving advanced reactor design, deployment, and operations.

    USNIC represents over 80 companies and organizations engaged in advanced nuclear innovation and supply chain development, including technology developers, manufacturers, construction engineers, key utility movers, and service providers. It also provides a practical nuclear energy pathway to new, flexible technologies through educational programs, industry insights, and market intelligence that bring together bi-partisan Federal and State legislators who create a successful clean energy paradigm that includes nuclear.

    Figure 1 – LIS Technologies Inc. Becomes the Platinum, Nuclear Titan and Summit Lead Sponsor of the Upcoming USNIC Advanced Reactor Summit XII, to be held in Salt Lake City Utah this Month.

    “Our participation in this key Summit is a welcome milestone for LIST as we continue to make strides towards the development and deployment of a comprehensive domestic nuclear fuel supply chain,” said Christo Liebenberg, CEO of LIS Technologies Inc. “Infrared lasers play a crucial role in producing the world’s most advanced semiconductor chips, which are driving the AI revolution and reshaping our nuclear energy landscape. These same lasers are also integral to third-generation laser enrichment. Several team members at LIST have expertise in both industries. As the next generation of advanced nuclear reactors emerges, a strong domestic infrastructure will be essential, and LIST is strategically positioned to lead its development.”

    About the U.S. Nuclear Industry Council

    The U.S. Nuclear Industry Council (USNIC) is the leading U.S. business advocate for the advancement of applications for nuclear energy technology, and promotion of the U.S. supply-chain worldwide. USNIC represents approximately eighty entities engaged in all aspects of the future of nuclear technology. These include: key utility movers, technology developers, construction engineers, manufactures, front- and back-end service providers, scientists, academia, national laboratories, fuel innovators, as well as those involved in medical and aerospace advancements. USNIC encompasses five working groups including an Advanced Nuclear Working Group. For more information visit www.usnic.org. 

    About LIS Technologies Inc.

    LIS Technologies Inc. (LIST) is a USA based, proprietary developer of a patented advanced laser technology, making use of infrared lasers to selectively excite the molecules of desired isotopes to separate them from other isotopes. The Laser Isotope Separation Technology (L.I.S.T) has a huge range of applications, including being the only USA-origin (and patented) laser uranium enrichment company, and several major advantages over traditional methods such as gas diffusion, centrifuges, and prior art laser enrichment. The LIST proprietary laser-based process is more energy-efficient and has the potential to be deployed with highly competitive capital and operational costs. L.I.S.T is optimized for LEU (Low Enriched Uranium) for existing civilian nuclear power plants, High-Assay LEU (HALEU) for the next generation of Small Modular Reactors (SMR) and Microreactors, the production of stable isotopes for medical and scientific research, and applications in quantum computing manufacturing for semiconductor technologies. The Company employs a world class nuclear technical team working alongside leading nuclear entrepreneurs and industry professionals, possessing strong relationships with government and private nuclear industries.

    In 2024, LIS Technologies Inc. was selected as one of six domestic companies to participate in the Low-Enriched Uranium (LEU) Enrichment Acquisition Program. This initiative allocates up to $3.4 billion overall, with contracts lasting for up to 10 years. Each awardee is slated to receive a minimum contract of $2 million.

    For more information please visit: LaserIsTech.com

    For further information, please contact:
    Email: info@laseristech.com
    Telephone: 800-388-5492
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    Forward Looking Statements

    This news release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In this context, forward-looking statements mean statements related to future events, which may impact our expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as “expects”, “anticipates”, “intends”, “plans”, “believes”, “will”, “should”, “could”, “would” or “may” and other words of similar meaning. These forward-looking statements are based on information available to us as of the date of this news release and represent management’s current views and assumptions. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, events or results and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may be beyond our control. For LIS Technologies Inc., particular risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements include but are not limited to the following which are, and will be, exacerbated by any worsening of global business and economic environment: (i) risks related to the development of new or advanced technology, including difficulties with design and testing, cost overruns, development of competitive technology, loss of key individuals and uncertainty of success of patent filing, (ii) our ability to obtain contracts and funding to be able to continue operations and (iii) risks related to uncertainty regarding our ability to commercially deploy a competitive laser enrichment technology, (iv) risks related to the impact of government regulation and policies including by the DOE and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission; and other risks and uncertainties discussed in this and our other filings with the SEC. Only after successful completion of our Phase 2 Pilot Plant demonstration will LIS Technologies be able to make realistic economic predictions for a Commercial Facility. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this news release. These factors may not constitute all factors that could cause actual results to differ from those discussed in any forward-looking statement. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as a predictor of actual results. We do not undertake to update our forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this news release, except as required by law.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Future use of Grantown on Spey Common Good Fund

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Members of the Badenoch and Strathspey Area Committee have discussed the finances of the Grantown on Spey Common Fund and welcomed the potential future good uses it will be used for to benefit the people of Grantown on Spey.

    Chair of the Badenoch and Strathspey Area Committee Cllr Russell Jones said: “The development of the Grantown on Spey Common Good Fund is a long-term commitment that Badenoch and Strathspey Councillors are laying down the foundations now for future generations to come.

    “Members have welcomed the potential future uses of the Common Good Fund including examples such as: giving financial support to local charities and supporting community projects and community events.

    “The creation of the Fund will however take time before it can use disbursed, and we hope that in future the income to the Grantown on Spey Common Good Fund collected now and over the years will enable the creation of specific budgets for events and festivals and community projects to benefit the local community.

    “These ambitions to support the people of Grantown on Spey will take time to build the income streams Common Good Fund for future generations.”

    Cllr Bill Lobban added: “We want to see the Grantown on Spey Common Good Fund grow in the future and benefit the local community. It’s important that people know that the Fund will be used exclusively for the benefit of the people of Grantown on Spey and not on Council projects.

    Councillors noted a forecast 2024/25 year end position of the Common Good Fund revenue reserves of £910 and approved a proposed budget for 2025/26 with an anticipated income of £500 and year end revenue reserves of £1,410.

    In time all future proposals that would benefit the Grantown on Spey area alone, would come to the Area Committee for local Members consideration.

    11 Feb 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ‘Equity Now’ Speaker to Address Immigration Law, Policies Under Trump Administration

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Professor Tania N. Valdez, a George Washington University Law School faculty member and an attorney who has represented immigrants for more than a decade, will speak about “Immigration Law and the New Presidential Administration’’ next month.

    Her March 11 virtual presentation is part of the School of Business’ Equity Now speaker series and it will be livestreamed at 6 p.m. Students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends of the university are welcome to participate.

    “Our nation’s focus on immigration enforcement has increased in the last few decades, and although I’m not sure I would have predicted it being this dramatic, it has all been leading to this moment,’’ Valdez said.

    More Immigrants Moving to America in Last 60 Years

    Professor Tania Valdez (Contributed Photo)

    For decades, the U.S. has welcomed more immigrants than any other country, and is currently home to approximately one-fifth of the world’s international immigrants, according to the Pew Research Center. The U.S. foreign-born population reached more than 47 million in 2023, composing about 14 percent of the total population. In contrast, in 1970, the immigrant population was about 4.7 percent of the total population. According to 2022 records, the largest population of U.S. immigrants were from Mexico, India, China, the Philippines, and El Salvador.

    While the Biden Administration had a more immigrant-friendly policy, President Trump campaigned on a platform of immigration reform and deportation. Since taking office in January, he has essentially shut down the American asylum system, empowered ICE agents to make sweeping arrests, and assigned the Pentagon to assist with border enforcement.

    Birthright Citizenship, ICE Enforcement, and Business Impact

    Valdez will examine myths and truths about immigration policy, explore current events relating to immigration, including birthright citizenship, and identify the consequences of an aggressive immigration policy on individuals, businesses, and the American economy.

    One of the topics that Valdez is passionate about is birthright citizenship, a constitutional right that guarantees that most people born in the United States automatically become U.S. citizens, regardless of their parents’ country of origin. A recent executive order by the Trump administration attempts to repeal that policy. Valdez will address the constitutionality of that order and the likely effects it will produce.

    She will also speak about mass deportation and detention. Her research highlights the inadequacies of protections for noncitizens in removal proceedings, particularly in the current era of aggressive immigration enforcement.

    “We’ve all heard about ICE enforcement and raids, and I’d like to talk about what it means for the immigration system as a whole and what rights and protections are afforded to immigrants through proceedings,’’ she said. “In the last month, there has been a ratcheting up of public displays of immigration enforcement and widespread fear about raids. By March 11, we will probably know more about the extent to which it’s actually happening.’’

    Valdez also hopes to address the impact of immigration enforcement on business, such as agriculture. “To date we’ve seen masses of people not showing up for work because they are afraid,’’ she said. “We have crops rotting in the fields. Agriculture did not have enough workers to begin with, and now it is far, far worse.’’

    The Equity Now Speaker Series is produced by the UConn School of Business in coordination with the Academy of Legal Studies in Business, Virginia Tech, Indiana University, and Temple University. This is the third of five programs during the 2024-25 academic year. To register for the program, please visit our Webex registration link

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Water crisis in the province of Enna, compliance with EU legislation on sustainable water management and respect for the right of access to water – E-002008/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) [1] supports Member States and regions in improving water management systems and infrastructures. Under the Regional Programme Sicily ERDF 2014-2020 and 2021-2027 and the National Programme Infrastructures and Networks ERDF 2014-2020, some EUR 460 million have been allocated to support sustainable water management in Sicily, with priority for infrastructural interventions reducing losses in the water supply network. These investments concern new and upgraded water supply networks, improvements to reservoirs and the reuse of wastewater.

    While Italy’s Recovery and Resilience Plan allocates EUR 4.8 billion to enhance water supply management through targeted projects, the Council Implementing Decision Annex does not allocate resources specifically to the province of Enna. Any allocation to Enna is a decision of national and regional authorities.

    2. According to the Common Provisions Regulation[2] (CPR), the selection and funding of operations is the responsibility of the regional or national authorities managing the programmes. Furthermore, the CPR lays down enabling conditions for Member States to access the ERDF with a view to ensuring that the necessary prerequisites are met for the effective and efficient implementation of a selected specific objective.

    For the Regional Programme Sicily ERDF 2021-2027, the enabling condition ‘2.5 Updated planning for required investments in water and wastewater sectors’ is not yet fulfilled; therefore, payments of EU contributions to this sector have not started.

    The Commission monitors the programmes’ implementation and progress towards the fulfilment of the applicable enabling conditions in regular meetings with the managing authorities.

    • [1] https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/funding/erdf_en
    • [2] Regulation (EU) 2021/1060 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 June 2021 laying down common provisions on the European Regional Development Fund, the European Social Fund Plus, the Cohesion Fund, the Just Transition Fund and the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund and financial rules for those and for the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund, the Internal Security Fund and the Instrument for Financial Support for Border Management and Visa Policy.
    Last updated: 11 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Implementation of forest maps and protection of private property in Greece – E-002804/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission ensures, within the remit of its competence, the respect of fundamental rights enshrined in the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights (the Charter), including the right to property[1].

    According to its Article 51(1) the provisions of the Charter are addressed to Member States only when they are implementing EU law.

    In this case, it is for Member States, including their judicial authorities, to ensure that fundamental rights are effectively respected and protected in accordance with their national law and international human rights obligations.

    The Commission is not responsible for monitoring the application of national laws for matters, such as property rights, which do not fall within EU competence.

    Therefore, the Commission has not issued and does not plan to issue any guidelines to resolve environmental protection conflicts with property rights .

    It is up to the Member States to identify and use EU co-financing, provided that the eligibility and selection criteria of any relevant EU programmes or funding tools are fulfilled. Cohesion Policy[2], through projects co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund[3], provides tools that can contribute to addressing challenges related to forest maps and property management in Greece[4].

    In line with this, Greece’s Recovery and Resilience Plan[5] includes a reform to finalise the national cadastre, establishing an efficient land registry system and providing legal certainty for property rights (measure 16986). By mid-2025, the cadastral mapping is expected to be completed, with all property rights available for public display.

    • [1] Article17 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union.
    • [2] https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/policy/what/investment-policy_en
    • [3] https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/funding/erdf_en
    • [4] For instance, the project Development of an Integrated Information System for the Central Geospatial Infrastructure (ERDF co-financing: EUR 0.6 million) focuses on creating a comprehensive geospatial information system to manage grazing lands, immovable property, and agricultural registers, supporting improved land and forest management. Similarly, the project Digitization of the Historic Archive of Aerial Photographs (ERDF co-financing: EUR 3.3 million) involves preserving and digitizing aerial photographs to create a Geographic Information System (GIS), which will contribute to documenting forest and land boundaries, improving transparency, and supporting sustainable land management efforts.
    • [5] https://commission.europa.eu/business-economy-euro/economic-recovery/recovery-and-resilience-facility/country-pages/greeces-recovery-and-resilience-plan_en

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Need for clear commitment and real support for the cities forming part of the ‘100 smart and climate-neutral cities by 2030’ mission and which have already received the EU mission label – E-000059/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    In its communication of 2023 on EU Missions[1], the Commission stated that the ‘implementation of the current five Missions should be continued, and support should be increased, both politically and financially’.

    It also stressed that ‘a broader portfolio of instruments needs to be mobilised, with the Horizon Europe calls serving only as seed funding and orchestrators rather than the main instruments of deployment’.

    For the Climate Neutral and Smart Cities Mission[2], this broadening of portfolio of instruments is important as the majority of the resources needed for the deployment of their Climate City contracts will have to come from the private sector.

    Beyond Research and Innovation funding, cities within the Climate Neutral and Smart Cities mission have received more than EUR 100 million of financial support from other EU programmes, other than Horizon Europe such as Connecting Europe Facility[3], LIFE[4], the European Urban Initiative[5]_[6] and the Digital Europe Programme[7].

    The Climate City Capital Hub[8], launched in June 2024, helps cities that have received the EU Mission Label[9] (18 have been targeted so far) to get projects ready for investment. It offers them advice on the best financing solutions, in close cooperation with existing advisory services, such as those offered by the European Investment Bank, and puts cities in touch with investors.

    In addition, EUR 21 million were secured in 2024 to deploy advisory services of the European Investment Bank (including European Local ENergy Assistance (ELENA)[10] and the InvestEU Advisory Hub[11]) to the cities that have received the EU Mission Label.

    Finally, the European Investment Bank also ringfenced a lending envelope of EUR 2 billion for labelled Mission Cities.

    • [1]  COM(2023) 457, 19/07/2023.
    • [2]  https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/funding/funding-opportunities/funding-programmes-and-open-calls/horizon-europe/eu-missions-horizon-europe/climate-neutral-and-smart-cities_en
    • [3]  https://cinea.ec.europa.eu/programmes/connecting-europe-facility_en
    • [4]  https://cinea.ec.europa.eu/programmes/life_en
    • [5] As regards the European Urban Initiative of Cohesion Policy, calls for innovative action proposals have included references to embed proposals in relevant urban strategies and plans such as those of the Climate Neutral and Smart Cities Mission
    • [6]  https://www.urban-initiative.eu/
    • [7]  https://commission.europa.eu/funding-tenders/find-funding/eu-funding-programmes/digital-europe-programme_en
    • [8]  https://netzerocities.eu/capital-hub/
    • [9]  https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/document/942e747e-3ccf-4121-a973-9cc8032fc421_en
    • [10] https://www.eib.org/en/products/advisory-services/elena/index
    • [11] https://investeu.europa.eu/investeu-programme/investeu-advisory-hub_en

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Time to lift the international sanctions on Syria? – 11-02-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Since the unexpected overthrow of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in early December 2024, Syria has embarked on an uncertain trajectory. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the armed jihadi group leading the offensive against the Assad forces, has now taken charge of the country and set up a caretaker government. Scepticism abounds in international circles about HTS owing to the group’s terrorist credentials and Salafist ideology. However, the new Syrian authorities have declared plans to establish a political transition inclusive of all minorities and segments of Syrian society, as well as increased engagement with neighbouring countries and other foreign players, offering the international community some reassurance. One of the main demands in the current context from all sides, within Syria as well as from other states and organisations, has been to lift the complex web of international economic, financial and trade sanctions against the country. Most of these sanctions were imposed after Assad’s brutal crackdown on protesters in 2011. Moreover, calls have been made to remove the designations of HTS and its leader Ahmed al-Sharaa from the international terrorist lists. Such steps are believed to be essential in addressing the significant economic and humanitarian challenges facing the country after nearly 14 years of civil war. The United States (US) imposes the most comprehensive sanctions on Syria, including secondary sanctions on foreign governments, non-US individuals and entities doing business with the Syrian government and sanctioned entities in Syria. The European Union (EU) has also imposed restrictive measures on certain Syrian economic sectors, along with asset freezes and travel bans on individuals or entities supporting the Assad regime. In January 2025, the US granted short-term waivers relating to the provision of basic services in response to requests for sanctions relief for Syria. Similarly, the EU Member States reached a political agreement to suspend certain restrictions gradually and conditionally. The UN Security Council has the authority to remove the terrorist designations of HTS and its leader from the ISIL (Da’esh)/Al-Qaida list.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Enabling more assistance for regions struck by floods through changes to the EU Solidarity Fund and Recovery and Resilience Facility regulatory framework – E-002590/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The mid-term revision of the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF)[1] increased the allocation for the Solidarity and Emergency Aid Reserve by EUR 1.5 billion for the years 2024-2027. The EU Solidarity Fund (EUSF)[2] now has an annual budget of EUR 1 016 million[3] (in 2018 prices). A review of the scope of the Fund is not planned under the 2021-2027 MFF.

    In addition, thanks to the Regional Emergency Support to Reconstruction (RESTORE) Regulation, entered into force on 24 December 2024[4], Member States will be able to reprogramme (within the limits of its current scope of intervention) part of their European Regional Development Fund, Cohesion Fund, and European Social Fund+ allocations for reconstruction and repair actions. Member States have six months from the entry into force to submit the corresponding programme amendments to the Commission.

    Under the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), Member States committed close to EUR 9 billion in their recovery and resilience plans to finance measures related to natural disaster preparedness. The RRF Regulation allows Member States to request a targeted amendment of their plan if objective circumstances make it impossible for them to deliver on the previously agreed commitments. Natural disasters can constitute objective circumstances to justify the revision of recovery and resilience plans[5]. The Commission has recently also taken steps to simplify the process to amend the plans (when objective circumstances are invoked).

    • [1] Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/765 of 29 February 2024 amending Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2020/2093 laying down the MFF for 2021-27.
    • [2] Council Regulation (EC) No 2012/2002 of 11 November 2002 establishing the European Union Solidarity Fund (OJ L 311, 14.11.2002, p. 3) as amended by Regulation (EU) No 661/2014 of the European Parliament and the Council of 15 May 2014 (OJ L 189, 27.6.2014, p. 143) and by Regulation (EU) 2020/461 of the European Parliament and the Council of 30 March 2020 (OJ L 99, 31.3.2020, p. 9): https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:32002R2012
    • [3] EUR 1 144.1 million in 2024 prices.
    • [4] Regulation (EU) 2024/3236 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 December 2024 amending Regulations (EU) 2021/1057 and (EU) 2021/1058 as regards Regional Emergency Support to Reconstruction (RESTORE), available at the following link: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/3236/oj
    • [5] This includes the possibility to shift RRF funds towards reforms and investments necessary to respond to natural disasters, or more generally to adjust previously agreed commitments to take account of the impact of such natural disasters on the plans’ implementation. The relevant guidance can be found at: https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/3a3d5707-5adc-4f6a-a5b5-1d23f1a24235_en?filename=20240531_Draft_Guidance_on_recovery_and_resilience_plans.pdf
    Last updated: 11 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Water shortages in the French overseas territories – E-002967/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission is aware of the challenges facing the outermost regions in terms of water shortages and is fully committed to supporting these regions in improving water management and related infrastructure.

    The Commission reiterated this commitment in its communication on the outermost regions[1] of May 2022, which aims to contribute to improving the quality of life of citizens in these regions, in particular as regards basic needs such as water and sanitation.

    An independent study[2] on living conditions and access to basic needs in the outermost regions published by the Commission in 2024 further sheds light into the remaining challenges related to access to drinking water and sanitation in some of these regions.

    The European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) provides substantial financial support to the French outermost regions on structural investments in drinking water and sanitation, for example to ensure the resilience of water catchments, develop drinking water treatment facilities and equipment, and improve the efficiency of distribution networks.

    Support to drinking water is also a priority for cohesion policy in these regions in 2021-2027. For instance, in Réunion, Guadeloupe, Saint Martin, and Mayotte, the ERDF will invest respectively EUR 106 million, EUR 148 million, EUR 10 million and EUR 47.5 million to improve the quality of drinking water and sanitation infrastructure.

    In addition, the directive on the quality of water intended for human consumption[3] includes provisions to protect human health by ensuring that drinking water is clean and to improve access to drinking water, in particular for vulnerable and marginalised groups.

    Member States had to transpose this directive into national law by 12 January 2023, which France did.

    • [1] COM(2022) 198 final.
    • [2] https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/information-sources/publications/studies/2024/study-on-living-conditions-and-access-to-selected-basic-needs-in-the-eu-outermost-regions_en
    • [3] Directive (EU) 2020/2184 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 December 2020 on the quality of water intended for human consumption, OJ L 435, 23.12.2020, p. 1-62.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Horizon Europe: lump sum funding – E-002331/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission is of the opinion that the benefits of lump sums have materialised. Lump sums will be used when deemed the most appropriate approach.

    Most participants find that lump sums reduce their administrative burden[1]. Beneficiaries can choose the extent to which they seize the full simplification benefits; while some continue internal financial management tasks, most have stopped some or all of these[2], which are no longer an obligation in the lump sum grant agreement.

    1. Lump sums can be used irrespective of the Research and Innovation content. Horizon Europe governance and the Programme Committee establish where to use lump sums[3],[4]. The focus is on call topics for grants below EUR 10 million with 10 or fewer participants. Small and medium enterprises and/or newcomers are particularly positive about lump sums, so topics addressing these groups are good candidates. The recent lump sum assessment confirmed these criteria[5].

    2. Article 29 of the Horizon Europe Regulation[6] states that grant proposals, which include the estimated budget, are evaluated by a committee of external experts. This applies both to actual cost and lump sum grants. In line with the Financial Regulation, the evaluation of lump sum budgets is one of the safeguards for sound financial management in the decision authorising the use of lump sum under Horizon Europe[7].

    The legal basis for experts to evaluate the budget in lump sum proposals stems from the same Decision[8]. Section 3 thereof stipulates that for each work package, experts should review the budget estimate using relevant cost and resource benchmarks[9] to ensure that the proposed resources and lump sum distribution can achieve the expected outcomes.

    3. The Commission will continue to monitor lump sums, including as part of the Horizon Europe interim evaluation, and to improve the process, where needed[10],[11]. While the legal principles remain stable, the processes, tools, guidance and training are continuously improved in line with stakeholder feedback.

    • [1] https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/docs/2021-2027/horizon/other/comm/ls-assessment-report-2024_en.pdf , section ‘Overall satisfaction’, p. 24-25.
    • [2] e.g.  keeping timesheets.
    • [3] As requested by many stakeholders, lump sums are being rolled out gradually.
    • [4] The resulting work programmes are adopted by Commission decision.
    • [5] Link footnote 1 section ‘Survey results’, p. 24-40.
    • [6]  OJ L 170, 12.5.2021, p. 1-68.
    • [7] https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/docs/2021-2027/horizon/guidance/ls-decision_he_en.pdf
    • [8]  Idem footnote 7.
    • [9] S uch as market prices, statistical data, or historical data.
    • [10] Assessment of the Lump Sum Pilot (2018-2020)(https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/document/download/acd39d69-99db-4ddd-b788-7c36397b22dd_en?filename=assessment_of_the_lump_sum_pilot_2018-2020_report) of October 2021, the overall positive results available at https://www.europarl.europa.eu/stoa/en/document/EPRS_STU(2022)697218.
    • [11] https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/docs/2021-2027/horizon/other/comm/ls-assessment-report-2024_en.pdf, in particular sections ‘Written comments and suggestions’, p. 41-42, and ‘Conclusions and next steps’, p. 43-45.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Measures to support Western Macedonia – E-002843/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Cohesion Policy supports the creation of new small and medium-sized enterprises’ (SMEs) in Greece, through the ‘Competitiveness’ programme, co-funded by the European Regional Development Fund and the European Social Fund+ (ESF+)[1], and horizontal employment actions also covering Western Macedonia, through the ‘Human Resources and Social Cohesion’ programme, co-funded by ESF+.

    The programme ‘Western Macedonia’ allocates some EUR 20 million[2] for the creation of new and existing SMEs along with EUR 13.2 million[3] for employment initiatives.

    The Greek Recovery and Resilience Plan[4] with EUR 2.9 billion supports job creation, youth employment, education, and entrepreneurship in Greece, while an additional EUR 619 million aims to foster economic development in Western Macedonia[5].

    The ESF+ finances employment actions, active labour market policies, training initiatives, and social economy projects aimed at job creation. Eligible individuals and entities can apply for financing through relevant calls.

    The Just Transition Fund allocates resources to employment initiatives and fosters entrepreneurship for youth, promoting green skills development[6] while the Just Transition Platform manages initiatives on youth mobilisation and young people’s skill development.

    The ‘Human Resources and Social Cohesion’ programme supports entrepreneurship initiatives for the socioeconomic integration of young people in Greece[7][8].

    The Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs programme[9] allows new entrepreneurs to learn from experienced business owners in other countries.

    Also, they can enhance their skills via the European learning platform Entrepreneurship4All[10] and participate in the European Enterprise Promotion Awards[11].

    • [1] Indicatively, some EUR 2.7 billion from the ERDF is available to support small and medium-sized enterprises in Greece.
    • [2] Co-funded by ERDF.
    • [3] Co-funded by ESF+.
    • [4] Components 3.1 and 3.2.
    • [5] The plan also includes two investments contributing to the economic development in Western Macedonia. Measure 16871 (Revitalization actions of the most affected territories (Just transition territories)) supports land rehabilitation in the areas of former lignite mines to alleviate its transition towards a climate-neutral economy. Measure 16628 (Central Greece Highway E-65: Trikala-Egnatia Section) finances the construction of a motorway, connecting Southern Greece, Thessaly and Western Macedonia with the Western Balkans and the rest of Europe to improve connectivity for residents and businesses in the region.
    • [6]  For example, the Just Transition Platform (JTP) runs a JTP Working Group on Equal Opportunities to provide a forum for vulnerable groups to share good practices, exchange knowledge and discuss concerns and achievements. In addition, the Just Transition Platform manages since 2023 initiatives on youth mobilisation, re-skilling and up-skilling measures for young people. Support through the Just Transition Platform also promotes the development of green skills for youth to enhance entrepreneurship and development of the SMEs and start-up.
    • [7]  Including the region of Western Macedonia.
    • [8]  In 2014-2020, the Youth Employment Initiative mobilised over EUR 500 million to finance training, work experience and entrepreneurship support programmes for unemployed young people in Greece. Similar measures are being funded by the ESF+ allocation for the period 2021-2027 with a budget of EUR 860 million.
    • [9]  https://www.erasmus-entrepreneurs.eu/
    • [10]  https://entrepreneurship4all.eu/why-e4all/
    • [11]  https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/smes/learn-and-plan-entrepreneurship/european-enterprise-promotion-awards_en

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: BitMart Launches the Global “Trading King” Campaign – A Monthly Competition for Top Crypto Traders

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Mahe, Seychelles, Feb. 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BitMart, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, has announced the launch of its monthly “Trading King” Campaign, a recurring trading competition designed to recognize and reward top traders worldwide. Open to participants across 46+ countries, the Campaign offers exclusive BitMart merchandise, USDT prizes, and premium rewards to outstanding traders each month.

    The Campaign provides traders with an opportunity to compete regionally and globally, showcasing their trading expertise and securing valuable prizes. Participants will be ranked based on their spot trading volume, with both regional champions and top global performers receiving special rewards.

    Campaign Structure

    • Monthly Regional Winners – Traders compete within their respective regions, including Europe, CIS, Turkey, and Brazil, among others. The trader with the highest spot trading volume in each region will be awarded custom BitMart gifts and USDT rewards.
    • Global Leaderboard – The top three traders worldwide will receive customized premium rewards, recognizing their exceptional performance on a global scale.

    Campaign Duration

    Start Date: February 1, 2025, 00:00 UTC
    End Date: February 28, 2025, 23:59 UTC

    BitMart’s Trading King Campaign not only fosters a competitive trading environment but also provides participants with exclusive incentives. With the crypto trading landscape constantly evolving, this initiative underscores BitMart’s commitment to rewarding excellence and fostering engagement within its global community.

    For full Campaign details and participation guidelines, visit: https://www.bitmart.com/activity/tradingking2025/en-US/.

    About BitMart
    BitMart is the premier global digital asset trading platform. With millions of users worldwide and ranked among the top crypto exchanges on CoinGecko, it currently offers 1,600+ trading pairs with competitive trading fees. Constantly evolving and growing, BitMart is interested in crypto’s potential to drive innovation and promote financial inclusion. To learn more about BitMart, visit their Website, follow their X (Twitter), or join their Telegram for updates, news, and promotions. Download BitMart App to trade anytime, anywhere.

    Disclaimer:

    Use of BitMart services is entirely at your own risk. All crypto investments, including earnings, are highly speculative in nature and involve substantial risk of loss. Past, hypothetical, or simulated performance is not necessarily indicative of future results. The value of digital currencies can go up or down and there can be a substantial risk in buying, selling, holding, or trading digital currencies. You should carefully consider whether trading or holding digital currencies is suitable for you based on your personal investment objectives, financial circumstances, and risk tolerance. BitMart does not provide any investment, legal, or tax advice.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Progress towards Eradicating Poverty “Has Recently Stalled”, Chair Tells Commission for Social Development, Calling for Greater Solidarity

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    Solidarity and social inclusion are more important than ever as the world grapples with multiple emergencies such as the climate crisis, democratic backsliding and repeated human rights abuses, high-level ministers said today at a panel discussion at the 2025 session of the Commission for Social Development.

    Ministers ranging from Sweden to Uganda in a panel discussion titled “Strengthening solidarity and social cohesion” spotlighted various ways their Governments were working to promote progress in health, education, gender equality, human rights, microfinance and macroeconomic measures, while also calling on the wider international community to recommit to sustainable development.  They expressed concern that trust and faith in Government and institutions had eroded in recent years just as progress faced new roadblocks.

    “Progress towards eradication of poverty has lately stalled,” said the Commission’s Chair, Krzysztof Maria Szczerski (Poland), who also moderated the discussion.  Income and wealth inequality remain, while decent work is in short supply.  These developments, together with global trends and intersecting crises, hamper social inclusion.  “Governments need to tackle these challenges, but trust in them is in decline in many countries, weakening social cohesion and limiting the effectiveness of the social policies,” he stressed.  Key to addressing these challenges is strengthening solidarity.  Stressing the need to combat mis- and disinformation, he said that citizen participation in Government and policy can indeed boost trust in the public sector.

    Kaisa Juuso, Minister for Social Affairs and Health of Finland, said that a society’s resilience to challenges and crises heavily relies on social cohesion and trust.  Universal social protection — such as health services, long-term care and education — enhances stability and security.  She went on to introduce the so-called “economy of well-being” approach, emphasizing that the policies and structures supporting human well-being are vital for inclusive economic growth.  They are linked directly to economic activity, labour market participation and productivity, she said, adding that it highlights the mutually reinforcing nature of economy and well-being and encourages collaboration across sectors.  Investing in universal health coverage, social protection, education and gender equality is key to social cohesion and inclusive economic growth.  These together with decent work and inclusive labour markets are “the best ways to tackle poverty and discrimination”, she said. Stressing the importance of leaving no population groups behind, she affirmed that “in Finland, we share a deep understanding in society that a nation can only prosper by providing an enabling environment for everyone to grow to their fullest potential”.

    “As one of the largest donors to the global development system, Sweden remains fully committed to reaching the SDG targets, but we are not happy with the progress,” said Camilla Waltersson-Grönvall, Minister for Social Services of Sweden.  According to the World Bank, almost 700 million people live in extreme poverty globally, she added, urging lawmakers and leaders to “work hard to ensure sound and inclusive social protection systems”.  This is fundamental to guarantee that those in vulnerable situations receive the support they need.  Sweden believes that gender equality is both a human right and a key driver of inclusive growth and social development.  Turning to child rights, she highlighted several national efforts and underscored evidence that suggests there is a correlation between children growing up in circumstances of parity and deprivation and increased risks in terms of worse physical and mental health, worse educational achievement and lower participation in society.  “Families and parents might be the most important tool to prevent children from ending up in negative patterns,” she added.

    Betty Amongi Ongom, Minister for Gender, Labour and Social Development of Uganda, highlighted her country’s initiatives to promote social integration by prioritizing health, education, microfinance and macroeconomic measures to drive growth.  These efforts have facilitated the absorption of unemployed youth into the private sector.  Uganda has also attracted investors through prudent economic and investment policies that have bolstered foreign direct investment (FDI).  The country has reformed its labour laws and encouraged private-sector investment in health insurance policies.  To further support vulnerable groups, Uganda has made affordable financial services accessible to women, youth, persons with disabilities, older persons, refugees and the rural poor.  “We are offering online services with affordable Internet and technology, enabling the rural poor to access many services online,” she noted.  Vulnerable communities have also benefited from grants and cash transfers.  Additionally, Uganda launched free skilling programmes targeting the underprivileged and supported the establishment of shared facilities, which are freely available to help women and youth incubate their businesses.

    Maria Luisa Ramirez, Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs of Guatemala, said the Government has worked hard to improve trust in institutions, through fighting corruption, providing access to public information and encouraging citizen participation in the formulation of public policies.  “In Guatemala, around 59 per cent of the population live in conditions of poverty, with significant differences in the rural and Indigenous areas,” she added.  This has led the Government to promote policies for social protection, ensuring that the most vulnerable families have access to quality education, health services with a cultural perspective and opportunities for dignified employment.  Concentrating on this is very important “to prevent everyone having to leave rural areas to go to urban areas”, she added.  Guatemala is also seeking to promote a safe environment for investment and for entrepreneurship through generating trust in key sectors such as sustainable agriculture and the digitalization of services.

    Mahdi Mohamed Djama, Director General of the Social Development Agency in Djibouti, highlighted the significant challenges faced by his country, which has a population of just over 1 million.  These challenges include severe weather, desertification and a youth unemployment rate of 73 per cent for those under 25.  While Djibouti’s economy has shown resilience — with gross domestic product (GDP) growth averaging 6 per cent from 2011 to 2021 and reaching 6.7 per cent in 2023 — it remains marked by inequality, with a Gini coefficient of 41.6 and an extreme poverty rate of 19.1 per cent. Djibouti Vision 2035 places human capital development and social infrastructure at its core.  The Government has implemented social welfare programmes, job creation initiatives through vocational training, and support for small- and medium-sized enterprises.  It has also launched efforts to promote solidarity and transparency.  To address inequality and poverty, Djibouti is focused on diversifying its economy while strengthening its social and economic systems.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Polis, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and Great Outdoors Colorado Award $1.17 Million to Coalitions Throughout Colorado

    Source: US State of Colorado

    DENVER – Today, Governor Polis, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), and Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO) announced grant recipients for the Outdoor Regional Partnerships Initiative (RPI) awarding $1.17 million dollars to coalitions around the state. Regional Partnerships convene community leaders from across outdoor recreation and conservation sectors to ensure that Colorado’s wildlife, recreation opportunities, and outdoor resources thrive into the future. This round of awards will support eight Regional Partnerships located across the state, including one new Regional Partnership for the Wet Mountain Valley covering Custer County. 

    “These investments support Colorado’s Outdoor Regional Partnerships, which show how we work together in Colorado to strengthen our lands, waters and wildlife that we value,” said Governor Jared Polis. 

    This seventh round of funding brings the total number of Colorado Outdoor Regional Partnerships to 21, covering 79% of the state. Since 2021, CPW and GOCO have awarded $6.07 million to Colorado’s Outdoor Regional Partnerships to support coalition building, conservation and outdoor recreation planning, research, and community engagement. The next grant funding round will take place in the spring of 2025. 

    “CPW celebrates the successes shared by Colorado’s Outdoor Regional Partnerships, which includes new outdoor recreation opportunities, stewardship of some of our most iconic mountain trails, and greater collaboration among outdoor sectors. This work ensures that we are taking care of the beautiful places and wildlife that define Colorado and draw us into the outdoors,” said CPW Director Jeff Davis. 

    “It’s incredibly exciting to watch the Regional Partnerships network grow,” said GOCO Executive Director Jackie Miller. “Every coalition brings invaluable knowledge of the resources and opportunities in their corners of the state. By collaborating, they make it possible for us to move together towards statewide goals, while securing the outdoors assets that make each region unique.” 

    This announcement follows a celebration held on Monday by one of Colorado’s Regional Partnerships, the Pikes Peak Outdoor Recreation Alliance, and Governor Polis to recognize new recreation management opportunities on Pikes Peak. 

    Regional Partnership Fall 2024 Grant Cycle Funding Recipients: 

    Eagle County Community Wildlife Roundtable (ECCWR) ($100,000) 
    Community members and organizations established the ECCWR in 2020, leveraging diverse values, creativity, and resources to move toward positive action and enduring solutions to the complex wildlife issues in Eagle County. With this award, ECCWR is using a new Conservation Summary mapping tool to inform a regional recreation and conservation plan that will identify collaborative projects to enhance outdoor recreation opportunities while considering high-priority habitat and wildlife migration corridors. 

    NoCo Places ($150,000) 
    NoCo Places is an established group of nine federal, state, and county land agencies collaborating to more effectively manage the impact of increased demand for outdoor recreation and visitation in Boulder, Clear Creek, Gilpin, Jefferson, and Larimer counties. Continued funding supports training and mapping workshops and sustained communication and marketing strategies that reach visitors to the NoCo Places region. With this award, Noco will also advance projects to map social trails and explore common management approaches to campground management. 

    Outside 285 ($130,000) 
    The Outside 285 coalition seeks to conserve wildlife habitat while improving trail-based recreation experiences within the US-285 corridor, which includes Clear Creek, Douglas, Jefferson, and Park counties. This award will support continued collaboration across outdoor interest groups and land managers to advance habitat restoration projects and new opportunities for outdoor recreation at the popular mountain destinations in this region. 

    San Luis Valley Great Outdoors (SLV GO!) ($181,000) 
    Formed in 2013, SLV GO! brings together 45 organizations, businesses, municipalities, and agencies who recognize the importance of enhancing outdoor recreational experiences, improving wellness, and protecting the environment across the six-county region of the San Luis Valley. This funding award will support partnership coordination, marketing and communication and the coalition’s capacity as it finalizes a regional conservation and recreation vision for the San Luis Valley. 

    Southwest Colorado Conservation and Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (SCCORR) ($110,000) 
    SCCORR is building on the initial groundwork laid by the Southwest Colorado Outdoor Recreation Alliance, formed in 2018 by a group of outdoor recreation professionals focused on growing the region’s outdoor recreation economy and resources in a sustainable, collaborative manner. Upon joining the RPI, SCCORR has built a broader constituency of outdoor and conservation interests to support sustainable recreation and natural resources conservation. With this award, SCCORR will finalize a regional recreation and conservation plan informed by mapping, community engagement and collaboration among outdoor interest groups, local governments and land managers. 

    Spanish Peaks Outdoor Coalition (SPOC) ($250,000) 
    SPOC was formed in the spring of 2024, building on the momentum created by CPW’s partnership with the City of Trinidad, the Trust for Public Land, The Nature Conservancy, and GOCO to establish Fishers Peak State Park. SPOC builds on the development of the Las Animas County Recreation and Economic Impact Study and Huerfano County’s Community Action Plan, convening diverse stakeholders to advance regional priorities and expand collaborative recreation and conservation planning. With this award, SPOC will develop a comprehensive, community-driven plan that prioritizes balanced approaches to wildlife conservation and the preservation of the region’s cultural and agricultural heritage.

     Summit County Outdoor Coalition (SCOC) ($125,000) 
    Established in 2023, SCOC convenes local, state, and federal land managers and nonprofit leaders to advance equitable outdoor recreation opportunities while protecting and conserving natural and cultural resources. With this award, SCOC will strengthen their coalition and engage outdoor interests from across the county, laying the foundation for a regional conservation and recreation plan.

    Wet Mountain Valley Outdoors (WMVO) ($126,825) 
    This new Wet Mountain Valley Outdoors coalition spans Custer County, connecting the Sangre de Cristo and the Wet Mountain ranges. This award will support a facilitated process to establish a new coalition informed by stakeholder conversations and listening sessions with community members and outdoor interests. This work will lay the foundation to inform recreation and conservation strategies that achieve the community’s vision. 

    For more information and a list of all the Regional Partnerships, please see the Regional Partnerships Initiative page on the CPW website. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: CBP Officer Arrested in El Paso, Charged with Alien Smuggling and Drug Trafficking

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)

    EL PASO, Texas – A Customs and Border Protection officer was arrested in El Paso on criminal charges related to his alleged involvement in a conspiracy to smuggle undocumented noncitizens for financial gain and alleged drug trafficking activity.

    According to court documents, between on or about Dec. 21, 2023 and Feb. 5, 2025, Manuel Perez Jr., 32, of El Paso, allegedly smuggled and attempted to smuggle undocumented noncitizens into the United States for commercial advantage and private financial gain. The indictment alleges that, in multiple instances, Perez Jr. admitted a vehicle driven by an undocumented noncitizen at the Paso Del Norte Port of Entry in El Paso as part of human smuggling operations. Additionally, Perez Jr. allegedly conspired to possess a substance containing at least 5kg of cocaine from on or about Nov. 1, 2019 through and including Feb. 5, 2025, to distribute throughout Texas, Louisiana, North Carolina and elsewhere.

    Perez Jr. is charged with one count of conspiracy to bring aliens to the United States for financial gain, three counts of bringing aliens to the United States for financial gain, and one count of conspiracy to possess a controlled substance with intent to distribute. If convicted, he faces a up to five years in federal prison for the human smuggling conspiracy charge, three to 10 years in prison for each of the three additional human smuggling charges, and 10 years to life for the drug trafficking charge. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza for the Western District of Texas made the announcement.

    This investigation was a joint effort by FBI El Paso, U.S. Customs and Border Protection Office of Professional Responsibility, and Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General, which comprise the FBI El Paso West Texas Border Corruption Task Force, along with the assistance of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Office of Field Operations, U.S. Border Patrol El Paso Sector, Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations Division/Texas Highway Patrol, Homeland Security Investigations El Paso and the Drug Enforcement Administration El Paso Division.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney John Johnston is prosecuting the case.

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

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hassan, Shaheen, Pappas Join Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony for New Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Facility to Increase Efficiency and Support Shipyard Workforce

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Maggie Hassan
    (Portsmouth, NH) – Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and U.S. Representative Chris Pappas (NH-01) delivered remarks at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard’s new Waterfront Production Facility. The facility will house training and production facilities at the shipyard and construction was funded through the Navy’s Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program (SIOP). This and other projects under SIOP will increase maintenance capacity at public shipyards. Shaheen secured full authorization for SIOP projects at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 NDAA. You can view photos from the event here.  
    “One of the real advantages we have over our adversaries is our attack submarines, and we want to make sure that those nuclear submarines are on the water as much as possible. This new facility makes our shipbuilding workforce more efficient, saving time and money, which is exactly what we need to strengthen our national security,” said Senator Shaheen. “It also reaffirms the key role that Portsmouth Naval Shipyard plays not only in our local economy, but also in our nation’s shipbuilding industry, bringing and keeping good-paying jobs for Granite Staters.” 
    “With the construction of the new Waterfront Production Facility, the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard remains equipped to meet the challenges of the 21st century,” said Senator Hassan. “The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is an indispensable pillar of our national security and today’s ribbon cutting marks the latest chapter in the history of Portsmouth helping keep America safe, secure, and free.” 
    “I was pleased to take part in the ribbon cutting of this state-of-the-art facility that will help the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard continue to achieve America’s national security goals well into the future while preserving this installation’s storied history. It is an honor to represent the Shipyard and the men and women who serve there in Congress, and I remain committed to ensuring that they always have the support and resources needed to do the job and complete the mission,” said Congressman Pappas.
    Senator Shaheen has long advocated for New England’s shipbuilding industry and workforce, including through authorizing funding and workforce development for Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Through the FY 2025 National Defense Authorization Act, Shaheen secured full authorization for the Shipbuilding Infrastructure Optimization Program (SIOP) projects at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, which will expand the Shipyard’s capacity to maintain America’s fast-attack submarine fleet. As a member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations and Armed Services Committees, Senator Shaheen helped secure this funding beginning in the FY 2019 funding legislation, which she has continued in ensuing years. Additionally, in the FY 2025 government funding bills, Shaheen worked to include a $9.5 million Congressionally Directed Spending add for a new parking structure at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard—which will contribute to quality of life for Shipyard’s workforce. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville, Scott Introduce Legislation Sanctioning the Communist Cuban Regime

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) and U.S. Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) announced the reintroduction of the Denying Earnings to the Military Oligarchy in Cuba and Restricting Activities of the Cuban Intelligence Apparatus (DEMOCRACIA) Act to hold the illegitimate communist Cuban regime accountable through severe sanctions and unprecedented financial pressure.
    “Thanks to President Trump, we have strength in the White House again,” said Sen. Tuberville. “The United States will not stand by while the Cuban communist regime commits heinous human rights abuses and takes political prisoners. If Cuba wants to continue committing these crimes, they should be sanctioned. I am proud to join my colleagues in standing up against this evil regime.”
    “Cuba is the root of instability in Latin America and a constant threat to the national security of the United States, only emboldened by the past four years of Biden-Harris appeasement policies,” said Sen. Scott.“The illegitimate, communist Castro/Díaz-Canel regime harbors terrorist groups, denies freedom and democracy to the Cuban people while providing a secret police force to Maduro to oppress the Venezuelan people, and hosts a Chinese Communist Party spy station 90 miles from Florida. The Cuban regime props up ruthless dictators and allows a foothold in Latin America for Russia, Iran and Communist China to spread their influence. President Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio have already taken action to hold the Cuban regime accountable, including reversing Biden’s dangerous decision to remove them from the State Sponsor of Terrorism List, but we must keep the pressure going. My DEMOCRACIA Act will build on their efforts by implementing severe sanctions against Communist Cuba and closes existing sanctions gaps. It will also authorize the president to provide unrestricted internet service to the people of Cuba that is not censored by the Cuban regime. The United States continues to stand with the Cuban people, and this bill will send a powerful message as we work to bring a new day of freedom and democracy to Cuba and the entire western hemisphere.”
    Read full text of the legislation here. 
    BACKGROUND:
    Authorizes the president to impose sanctions—blocking assets and denying entry into the United States—on a foreign person if the president determines that the person knowingly engages in an activity with Cuba’s defense sector, security sector, intelligence sector, or any other sector involved in carrying out human rights abuses or providing support for international terrorism.
    A foreign person or senior official that provides significant financial, material or technological support to, or engages in a significant transaction with Cuba’s defense, security or intelligence sector or any entity or individual affiliated with that sector (including their immediate adult family member),
    Any entities that are owned, directly or indirectly, 25% or more by one or more designated persons are also subject to sanctions,
    Any foreign person that is a military contractor, mercenary or paramilitary force knowingly operating in a military, security, or intelligence capacity for or on behalf of the Cuban regime.

    Authorizes the President to impose sanctions with respect to human rights abuse and corruption in Cuba including:
    Members of the Communist Party of Cuba, to include the Office of Religious Affairs and members of the Politburo and the Central Committee,
    Members of the Council of State and the Council of Ministers,
    Ministry of the Interior of Cuba, to include, the National Revolutionary Police Force,
    Members of the committee for the Defense of the Revolution,
    The Revolutionary Armed Forces of Cuba,
    Office of the President of Cuba,
    Any official of the Cuban regime who works with the Ministry of Justice or the Office of the Attorney General and who violates due process rights of an individual in Cuba,
    The spouse and children of any of these blocked individuals are also subject to these sanctions.

    Authorizes the President to terminate these sanctions only if he certifies to Congress that the Government of Cuba:
    Has released all political prisoners,
    Legalized all political parties,
    Establishes a free press, and
    Free, fair, multiparty internationally observed elections are scheduled in a timely manner.

    Authorizes the president to immediately use all means possible to provide unrestricted, reliable internet service to the people of Cuba that is not censored or blocked by the Cuban regime
    Requires the President to establish a taskforce to develop long-term solutions for providing reliable internet service to the people of Cuba that is not censored or blocked by the Cuban regime
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP, and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James Secures Over $6.9 Million in Refunds from CityMD for New Yorkers Wrongfully Charged for COVID-19 Testing

    Source: US State of New York

    NEW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James today announced that her office has secured over $6.9 million in refunds and $7 million in canceled debt from CityMD, a popular urgent care provider with over 140 locations in New York, for patients who were wrongfully billed for COVID-19 testing at the height of the pandemic. An Office of the Attorney General (OAG) investigation revealed that CityMD improperly billed its patients for COVID-19 tests, in some cases issuing bills up to two years after services were provided and even threatening to escalate overdue bills to debt collection. CityMD issued these bills despite knowledge of state and federal laws that protected patients from being billed for COVID-19 testing during the pandemic. As a result of OAG’s enforcement, CityMD has canceled more than $7 million in outstanding COVID-19 testing bills for over 87,000 patients and refunded nearly $7 million to over 215,000 patients who already paid.

    “New Yorkers should never have to worry about unexpected medical bills, especially during a public health crisis,” said Attorney General James. “CityMD’s actions added unnecessary stress and financial burdens to patients seeking essential COVID-19 testing at the height of the pandemic. I am proud to have secured millions of dollars in refunds for impacted individuals and I encourage anyone who believes they’ve been a victim of fraudulent medical billing practices to file a complaint with my office.”

    The OAG opened an investigation in October 2022 after receiving numerous complaints about CityMD charging patients for COVID-19 tests. The investigation revealed that between March 2020 and November 2022, CityMD billed and collected payment from thousands of New Yorkers for COVID-19 testing services, with many bills being issued nearly two years after the date of service. The OAG also found that CityMD continued this practice despite knowing that New York and federal law prohibited health plans from charging co-pays and deductibles for medically necessary COVID-19 testing and related services or visits during the public health emergency. 

    Based on CityMD’s website and assurances by staff at the time tests were performed, patients understood they would not face out-of-pocket costs for COVID-19 testing services. CityMD also did not include a clearly posted cash price for COVID-19 testing services on its website. Many patients who tried to report concerns or complaints regarding testing bills to CityMD found it difficult to get in contact with the company. When these patients were able to reach CityMD, the company often refused to amend previously issued COVID-19 testing bills. 

    As a result of the OAG investigation, CityMD has issued $6,910,986 in refunds to 215,819 patients and recalled $7,026,668 in outstanding medical bills for 87,334 patients. CityMD sent all impacted patients a letter via mail and email notifying them of the refunds and debt cancellations and posted notices of the refunds and cancellations on its website and social media. Moving forward, CityMD must ensure its COVID-19 test billing practices comply with the law, must provide transparent pricing for COVID-19 testing services on its website, and continue to cooperate with OAG to address any COVID-19 testing-related consumer complaints. CityMD will pay $95,000 in penalties to the State of New York and has agreed to pay an additional $5,000 per violation for any future violations or failure to implement the required programmatic updates. 

    If a patient believes they have been a victim of misleading billing practices, they should contact the OAG Health Care Bureau online or call 1-800-428-9071. 

    This matter was handled by Assistant Attorney General Eve Woodin of the Health Care Bureau under the supervision of Deputy Bureau Chief Leslieann Cachola and Bureau Chief Darsana Srinivasan. The Health Care Bureau is part of the Division for Social Justice, led by Chief Deputy Attorney General Meghan Faux and overseen by First Deputy Attorney General Jennifer Levy. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Taking on Sky-High Utility Costs

    Source: US State of New York

    February 11, 2025

    Albany, NY

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced new steps to protect consumers from sky-high utility costs that are making New York less affordable. In a letter to Public Service Commission Chair and Department of Public Service CEO Rory Christian, Governor Hochul calls for the rejection of Con Edison’s proposed rate hike. Governor Hochul also directed the Department of Public Service to conduct a statewide audit of utility company salaries and compensation, to ensure New York ratepayers are getting a fair deal.

    “The cost of living is too damn high and New Yorkers need more money in their pockets,” Governor Hochul said. “Of course we need safe, reliable energy sources to power our homes and businesses. But utility companies shouldn’t be jacking up costs unnecessarily – especially if they’re paying their own staff too much.”

    [embedded content]

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    To address the immediate threat of Con Ed’s proposed rate hikes, which would cost New Yorkers hundreds of dollars each year, Governor Hochul today sent a letter to Public Service Commission (PSC) Chair and Department of Public Service (DPS) CEO Rory Christian urging action on behalf of New York consumers. The Governor called on DPS to act in the best interest of New Yorkers by closely scrutinizing this rate case and rejecting Con Ed’s unconscionable request to increase electricity rates by 11.4 percent and natural gas rates by 13.3 percent.

    Governor Hochul also directed DPS to conduct a first-of-its-kind audit of utility management compensation. The audit will focus on compensation for non-union utility management employees statewide and the results will inform future rate cases to protect New Yorkers from unfair rate hikes. Numerous recent management and operations audits of large, investor-owned electric and gas utilities have highlighted meaningful concerns with how utilities administer their programs. For example, in a recent audit of Central Hudson, the auditor concluded their bonus structure rewarded financial performance, but only set reliability and service quality metrics at the bare minimum.

    Over the last four years, Governor Hochul has prioritized energy affordability by:

    • Affordability policy enhancements to expand eligibility in the Energy Affordability Program and creating the Energy Affordability Guarantee, the first-in-the nation pilot program that ensures low-income New Yorkers participating in the EmPower Plus program never pay more than 6 percent of their incomes on electricity and incentivizes them to fully electrify their homes.
    • Budget appropriations to reduce ratepayer costs of EAP that provides critical utility bill relief to low-income New Yorkers.
    • Providing arrears forgiveness of more than $1 billion.
    • State procurements of renewable generation to offset ratepayer costs of developing new clean generation resources
    • $300 million to create power-ready sites for attracting new businesses through the Promote Opportunity with Electric Readiness for Underdeveloped Properties (POWER UP) Fund.

    The cost of living is too damn high and New Yorkers need more money in their pockets.”

    Governor Hochul

    Governor Hochul has prioritized affordability and helping New Yorkers with the high cost of living. To address rising costs related to home heating, Governor Hochul recently added $35 million to fund the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) which supports low-income New Yorkers who need help paying utility bills; the Governor also signed legislation in 2024 to help senior citizens access this vital program. New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) administers the Weatherization Assistance Program which helps HEAP-eligible households reduce energy costs, conserve energy, and improve safety and health standards.

    In her 2025 State of the State, Governor Hochul prioritized passing an affordability agenda that puts money back in the pockets of middle-class New Yorkers. Governor Hochul proposed New York’s first-ever Inflation Refund, which would give eligible New Yorkers checks of up to $500. The Governor is also calling for a tax cut that would reduce rates for middle-class families to the lowest levels in nearly 60 years and proposing a massive expansion of the Child Tax Credit.

    Embedded Flickr Album

    AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel said, “By opposing Con Edison’s latest rate hike proposal, Governor Hochul is again standing up for New Yorkers who are struggling simply to pay for their basic living expenses such as rent, food and prescription drugs. That includes the many older New Yorkers living on fixed incomes who can’t afford to have their utility bills go up even higher. New York’s population is aging rapidly, and far too many older adults are already living in poverty. The Governor is prioritizing making New York a more affordable place to live for people of all ages, and we support her in these efforts.”

    Community Service Society of New York Senior Director Carrie Tracy said, “We thank Governor Hochul for her strong defense of working families in New York and for opposing the proposed rate hikes, which would be disastrous for low- and moderate-income New Yorkers. The Community Service Society of New York has been dedicated to promoting economic opportunity for over 180 years, and we appreciate the Governor’s commitment to building a more equitable city and state.”

    Assemblymember Didi Barrett said, “In the last two years alone, we have seen eight double digit utility rate increase requests across New York State, including this most recent one from Con Ed. These rate increases are simply unsustainable for already cash-strapped New Yorkers. I thank Governor Hochul for focusing on utility affordability and I support her call for a compensation audit, increasing transparency and holding utilities accountable to our constituents.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Solomon Partners Expands Financial Institutions Group with the Hiring of 3 Seasoned Bankers

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Feb. 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Solomon Partners, a leading financial advisory firm and independent affiliate of Natixis, today announced a significant expansion of its Financial Institutions Group with the hiring of Juan Guzman as a Partner, and Faiz Vahidy and Matthew Cornish as Managing Directors. The trio previously worked at Houlihan Lokey and will now collaborate with their former colleague Arik Rashkes, who started at Solomon in December as Head of the recently formed Financial Institutions Group.

    “Collectively Juan, Faiz and Matt represent a meaningful step toward rapidly building out our Financial Institutions practice. They each have substantial experience across a variety of subsectors and have successfully worked together in their prior roles,” said Marc Cooper, CEO of Solomon Partners.

    Mr. Rashkes added, “My colleagues are well known and respected across the financial services industry as talented investment bankers who are dedicated to serving clients. Together we will further develop Solomon’s Financial Institutions advisory services.”

    Mr. Guzman specializes in mortgage services and insurance, as well as the broader real estate services sector. He has more than 20 years of experience in financial services, advising clients on a diverse range of transactions, including M&A, capital raising, valuations, and special committee assignments. Prior to joining Solomon, Mr. Guzman was a Managing Director in Houlihan Lokey’s Financial Services Group focused on the mortgage services and insurance sectors. He earned an MBA with concentrations in Corporate Finance and Law & Business from New York University’s Stern School of Business and a BA in Economics from the University of California, Los Angeles.

    “I look forward to contributing to Solomon’s growth and success by expanding the Financial Institutions Group and the sub-sectors we serve. The firm’s commitment to excellence and client-focused approach aligns with my professional values and goals,” Mr. Guzman commented.

    At Solomon, Mr. Vahidy will primarily focus on advising insurance distribution companies on mergers and acquisitions, capital raising, divestitures, fairness opinions, strategic planning, and other corporate finance engagements. He has more than two decades of experience in financial services, covering insurance distribution companies including MGAs, MGUs, BGAs, IMOs, and FMOs. He has successfully executed a wide variety of transactions for insurance carriers, insurance services providers, and insurtech companies. Mr. Vahidy received a BBA from the George Washington University and an MBA from the University of Virginia Darden School of Business.

    In his new role, Mr. Cornish will specialize in insurance services and illiquid financial assets, leveraging his extensive experience in corporate finance and advisory services. He previously served as a Director in Houlihan Lokey’s Financial Services Group & Illiquid Financial Assets Group. Over the past 15 years, Mr. Cornish executed transactions across multiple industries and asset classes, including benefits, claims, TPAs, property & casualty insurance, life settlements, tax receivable agreements, minority equity, receivership wind-downs, and private equity and hedge fund LP interests. He holds a BS in Accountancy, Economics, and Business Administration with a concentration in Finance from Villanova University.

    About Solomon Partners

    Founded in 1989, Solomon Partners is a leading financial advisory firm with a legacy as one of the oldest independent investment banks. Our difference is unmatched industry knowledge in the sectors we cover, creating superior value with unrivaled wisdom for our clients. We advise clients on mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, restructurings, recapitalizations, capital markets solutions and activism defense across a range of verticals. These include Business Services, Consumer Retail, Distribution, Financial Institutions, Financial Sponsors, FinTech, Grocery, Pharmacy & Restaurants, Healthcare, Industrials, Infrastructure, Power & Renewables, Media and Technology. Solomon Partners is an independently operated affiliate of Natixis, part of Groupe BPCE. For further information, visit solomonpartners.com.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/79874508-3307-43e1-87f1-c127d605658e

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3f447c06-0049-477a-b3da-8b11c48f3270

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/99656942-b936-46d7-96bf-b495571881f4

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Manhattan Man Charged With Murder-For-Hire Plot Resulting In The Death Of His Husband In Brazil

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Danielle R. Sassoon, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York; Antoinette T. Bacon, the Supervisory Official for the U.S. Justice Department’s Criminal Division; and James E. Dennehy, the Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), announced today the filing of charges against DANIEL SIKKEMA in connection with his role in a murder-for-hire plot that resulted in the death of his husband in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.  The charges are contained in a Superseding Indictment unsealed today in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York.  SIKKEMA was previously charged in the Southern District of New York for passport fraud. The case is pending before U.S. District Judge Edgardo Ramos.

    U.S. Attorney Danielle R. Sassoon said: “As alleged, Daniel Sikkema and his co-conspirator planned and carried out a cold-blooded plot to murder Sikkema’s husband, a United States citizen, in Brazil. This Office will doggedly pursue justice against those who murder United States citizens, whether at home or abroad.”

    FBI Assistant Director in Charge James E. Dennehy said: “In the midst of a tense divorce, Daniel Sikkema allegedly financed the premature death of his estranged husband. The defendant allegedly hired a hitman to facilitate the international murder of his husband, and attempted to conceal his involvement in this callous plan. The FBI will continue to vigorously investigate any individual who selfishly and mercilessly orders the end to another’s life, regardless of where the crime may occur.”

    According to the allegations in the Superseding Indictment:[1]

    In 2023, SIKKEMA agreed with another individual (“CC-1”) that SIKKEMA would pay CC-1 to kill SIKKEMA’s estranged husband (the “Victim”) in Brazil.  At that time, SIKKEMA and the Victim were engaged in contentious divorce proceedings and the Victim regularly traveled to Brazil and owned property in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.  To facilitate the murder-for-hire plot, SIKKEMA, a U.S. and Cuban citizen, sent multiple payments to CC-1 and CC-1’s romantic partner in Cuba.  SIKKEMA also concealed the source of each of these payments by using either a stolen identity or an intermediary to send them.

    On January 14, 2024, CC-1 murdered the Victim in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.  In the days that followed, SIKKEMA and CC-1 continued to communicate and SIKKEMA arranged for a payment of approximately $5,000 to be made to CC-1 and promised to make an additional payment at a later date.

    On January 18, 2024, CC-1 was arrested by Brazilian law enforcement for his involvement in the commission of the Victim’s murder.

    *                *                *

    SIKKEMA, 54, of New York, New York, is charged with one count of murder-for-hire conspiracy resulting in death, one count of murder-for-hire resulting in death, one count of conspiracy to murder and maim a person in a foreign country, and one count of passport fraud. If convicted, he faces a mandatory penalty of life in prison or death.

    The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.

    Ms. Sassoon praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI New York Field Office.

    The case is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meredith C. Foster and Remy Grosbard for the Southern District of New York are in charge of the prosecution with assistance from Trial Attorney Chelsea Schinnour of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section.

    The charges contained in the Superseding Indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.    
     

    [1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Superseding Indictment and the description of the Superseding Indictment set forth herein constitute only allegations, and every fact descried therein should be treated as an allegation. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Latin America is moving fast to protect democracy from excesses of big tech

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Sebastian Smart, Senior Research Fellow in Access to Justice, Law and Technology, Anglia Ruskin University

    Brazil’s president Lula da Silva is one of the Latin American leaders who are concerned about misinformation being used to undermine democracy. Focuspix/Shutterstock

    Bosses of tech giants Meta, Google and X had front row seats at Donald Trump’s recent presidential inauguration. This special treatment highlighted the increasingly cosy relationship between leaders of technology companies and the White House.

    Just a few weeks before the ceremony, Meta boss Mark Zuckerberg had pledged to “work with President Trump to push back on governments around the world that are going after American companies and pushing to censor more”.

    Zuckerberg also highlighted, and criticised, the restrictions that the European Union and Latin American nations had put in place to legally restrict the social media giants. These include liability for moderation and limiting targeted advertising.

    However, Latin America is emerging as the region which is moving fast to protect democratic institutions from misuse of social media, and other technology.

    For instance, Brazil’s proposed fake news bill (Lei das Fake News) seeks to regulate social media and curb misinformation. It has faced strong opposition from Google. The bill is still under consideration by Brazil’s Congress.



    Read more:
    Meta’s shift to ‘community notes’ risks hurting online health info providers more than ever

    Other examples include how, in August 2024, Brazil’s Supreme Court temporarily banned X for failing to comply with legal requirements, including blocking social media accounts accused of spreading misinformation linked to the 2022 election. X had also failed to appoint a local legal official.

    The platform remained suspended until October 8 2024, when X complied with the court’s orders, paid fines totalling 28 million reals (£3.9 million), and appointed a legal representative.

    Brazil temporarily banned social media network X.

    The court decision has been part of a broader effort in Brazil to protect its democracy and restrict potential disruption from use of technology or social media.

    This push intensified after allies of then president Jair Bolsonaro used social media to spread misinformation (ahead of the 2022 elections), and then attack democratic institutions, and mobilise supporters in the lead-up to the January 8 2023 attacks on government buildings.

    Digital platforms were used to spread false claims of voter fraud and discredit mainstream media as well as spread misinformation about Bolsonaro’s opponents. These efforts fuelled conspiracy theories and protests, which later turned violent. In response, Brazil’s Supreme Federal Court tightened regulations, ordering platforms to remove false election claims.



    Read more:
    Elon Musk’s feud with Brazilian judge is much more than a personal spat − it’s about national sovereignty, freedom of speech and the rule of law

    But the region’s regulatory efforts extend beyond social media into other emerging technologies. Colombia, Ecuador and Chile – among others – are currently debating regulations of artificial intelligence (AI) and looking at AI’s human rights and environmental impact.

    Chile was the first country to recognise neurorights (brain rights) in its constitution, ensuring protections against the misuse of neurotechnology, such as brain-computer interfaces that could read or manipulate thoughts, emotions or cognitive processes. These developing technologies could be used in medicine, but also raise ethical concerns about privacy and cognitive freedom.

    Political leaders across Latin America also regularly challenge global technology leaders over their effect on society. Chile’s president, Gabriel Boric, has criticised Elon Musk’s support for far-right movements. Brazil’s president, Lula da Silva, said the world did not have to put up with Musk’s “far-right free-for-all just because he is rich”. Brazil’s first lady, Janja Lula da Silva, was even more direct. During a global summit on social media regulation, she declared: “I’m not afraid of you, fuck you, Elon Musk.”

    History of authoritarianism

    Many people in Latin America remember how political power was abused in the recent past to undermine democracy. During the military dictatorships of the 1970s and 1980s in countries such as Chile, Argentina, Brazil and Uruguay, many businesses supported repressive regimes.

    After the coup in Chile in 1973, Augusto Pinochet’s authoritarian government privatised industries and cut social protections with help from the Chicago Boys, a group of US-trained Latin American economists. The regime crushed dissent through state violence, and imprisoned and tortured thousands of people.

    In the early 1970s, Chilean president Salvador Allende had tried to establish the Cybersyn Project, an ambitious initiative to create an economic planning system using networked telex machines and an early form of algorithmic decision-making. It was designed to enhance state control over the economy, while reducing dependence on foreign corporations. But Cybersyn was dismantled after the US-backed military coup that installed Pinochet’s dictatorship.

    Today, Latin America may be better positioned to counter foreign influence than it was in the 1970s. Brazil’s leadership at the recent G20 global summit, where it successfully pushed for social media and artificial intelligence regulation, showed that there is a regional will to push back against the demands, and power, of Silicon Valley’s technology giants.

    The question is whether these countries can sustain their efforts against pressure from big companies, economic pressure (such as tariffs) and shifting geopolitical alliances. If they do, Latin American nations could provide a much-needed counterweight to corporate influence, and an example to the rest of the world of what could be achieved.

    Sebastian Smart receives funding from FONDECYT-Chile

    – ref. Latin America is moving fast to protect democracy from excesses of big tech – https://theconversation.com/latin-america-is-moving-fast-to-protect-democracy-from-excesses-of-big-tech-248487

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump tariffs: there may be silver linings in the trade war storm clouds

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Scott Mahadeo, Senior Lecturer in Macroeconomics, University of Portsmouth

    bella1105/Shutterstock

    US tariffs – both threatened and imposed – on trade partners including China, Canada, Mexico and the EU quickly set off waves of retaliatory measures. The latest commodities in the sights of president Donald Trump are steel and aluminium – with tariffs of 25% announced for all imports. But not only do these taxes disrupt well-established trade flows, they ignite concerns over the very future of globalisation.

    Yet amid this uncertainty, it’s possible that there may be a silver lining. Trump may inadvertently be paving the way for a realignment of trade relationships and the emergence of new economic blocs. Such partnerships could foster more resilient and regionally focused economic cooperation.

    Trump’s decision to levy tariffs on its major trading partners disrupts the fundamental tenets of the gravity model of trade. According to this theory, trade between two nations is largely determined by their economic size and proximity. For instance, introducing tariffs to the close economic relationship between the US and Canada, underpinned by their shared border, effectively increases the distance between the two by raising costs and reducing the volume of bilateral trade.

    However, these disruptions can inadvertently encourage diversification of trade relationships. As companies and governments seek to mitigate the risks associated with tariffs, they may begin to explore new markets and alternative supply chains. This could ultimately lead to a more dispersed and – potentially – more stable global trade system.

    Yet as Trump continues to test the limits of his power, he is learning it is not so easy to defy gravity. Already, the president has dialled down tariffs on Canada and Mexico, while China has struck back with retaliatory measures.

    One positive spin-off of the trade war may be the reinforcement of regional alliances. With traditional trade flows disrupted, countries are increasingly incentivised to strengthen ties with neighbouring economies.

    North American outlook

    Canada and Mexico, long considered natural trading partners of the US, might pivot towards deepening their economic cooperation. They may also look to bilateral agreements with other partners as well as seeking new markets, strengthening ties with China and Japan.

    The USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) provides a strong foundation for trade. But attempts to dismantle this arrangement could see Canada and Mexico accelerating efforts to build closer economic ties with other regions, reducing their exposure to the US market.

    Trump reveals his plans for sweeping steel tariffs on “everybody”.

    Trump’s planned tariffs on steel threaten to undermine the USMCA. After all, it is designed to foster integrated supply chains and low-tariff economic cooperation among the three countries. This is likely to escalate trade tensions across the bloc, forcing a reassessment of the trade agreement’s key terms and destabilising the established relationships.

    European Union outlook

    The imposition of tariffs on the EU could lead to deepening integration among its member states. Faced with new pressures from the US, the EU might accelerate initiatives aimed at consolidating internal trade, harmonising regulations and promoting intra-European supply chains.

    Member states, with France at the forefront, are already advocating for a united response to counteract US protectionism. They hope to signal a strong political commitment to resist the pressures from Trump.

    Asia-Pacific outlook

    China, as the world’s second-largest economy behind the US, may seek to expand its trade relationships in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond. As China’s economic growth model is export-led, it may seek stronger partnerships with regional players and invest in new trade agreements. This could potentially give rise to an even more integrated Asian economic community.

    A new economic order

    Whatever else plays out, these tariff wars signal a reordering of the global economic landscape. Such disruptions, though painful in the short term, can create long-term changes that rebalance economic systems. The natural trading partner hypothesis reinforces this view by highlighting how countries with shared cultural, historical and geographical ties are likely to deepen their economic relationships in the face of external shocks.

    Table of US trade

    Source: US Bureau of Economic Analysis (2025)
    Author provided

    In this new order, traditional superpowers may find themselves challenged by unified responses from other nations. By imposing tariffs, the US risks isolating itself from these emerging alliances, while its major trading partners may become united in their efforts to counterbalance rising American protectionism.



    Read more:
    Brics: growth of China-led bloc raises questions about a rapidly shifting world order

    The ripple effects of the US tariff row extend well beyond the directly involved countries, with significant implications for global trade networks. For the UK, already coping with the aftermath of Brexit, this new environment offers both challenges and opportunities.

    With US-led protectionism disrupting traditional trade channels, the UK could seize the opportunity to diversify its export markets by forging stronger ties with the EU and digging deeper into its Commonwealth alliances. It could reinforce its position as a hub for international commerce while continuing to cultivate its relationship with the US. Managing Trump is a delicate balancing act for prime minister Keir Starmer, as both are expected to be in office for four years.

    A word of caution – negotiating international trade agreements is a complex and lengthy process. This is the hard lesson learned by the UK. Its trade with the EU (its most important commercial partner) shrank after Brexit, driving the quest for new trading partners and agreements. But these fruits are slow to materialise.

    The UK formally requested accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) in February 2021, but only signed the accession protocol in July 2023.

    And we should not forget that in 2024 the UK halted its trade talks with Canada after two years of negotiations, due to disagreements over the standards on some agricultural products.

    Tariffs come with challenges, but they might also be the beginning of a slow and painful change towards a more balanced and robust global economic order.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Trump tariffs: there may be silver linings in the trade war storm clouds – https://theconversation.com/trump-tariffs-there-may-be-silver-linings-in-the-trade-war-storm-clouds-249526

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Airports and Economic Growth – Transport Committee

    Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

    Will airports expansion drive regional economic growth?

    Whether expanding airports in the south east of England can benefit the rest of the UK economy will be the focus of a Transport Committee evidence session.

    MPs will question Aviation Minister Mike Kane MP and a senior Department for Transport official, following a panel with economists and industry experts.

    It comes after the Government recently announced support for a third runway at Heathrow and proposed expansions at Gatwick, Luton and other airports.

    Witnesses may be asked to consider economic factors linked to airport expansion such as: the tourism industry, tax revenues generated, the UK’s large aircraft manufacturing sector, increased capacity for air freight, and catalytic effects on other businesses.

    The New Economics Foundation, which is represented among witnesses in this session, has said it has been “some time” since the Government has assessed the “marginal economic impact” that airports expansion may have. The think tank has also pointed to varying methods of calculating the net economic impact that increased air travel has on the UK economy. For example, whether greater outbound travel by Brits could see a larger proportion of consumer spending happen abroad rather than at home, and to what extent that is offset by money spent in the UK from international tourists.

    Heathrow has itself previously said that expansion would mean growing its workforce of 28,600 people to over 100,000. The cross-party Committee will question a representative of Frontier Economics, a think tank commissioned by Heathrow Airport to look into the potential economic benefits of building a third runway.

    There will also be questions about the capacity of airports around the UK, whether they are surpassing or failing to meet demand, forecasts on future demand, and the role that larger ‘hub’ airports could play with smaller regional ones – a ‘hub and spoke’ model.

    The Minister and DfT will be asked to explain how airport expansion will fit into a wider national strategy for the aviation sector, and how air travel strategically links with other transport networks such as roads and railways.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b8EHcgHCdkI

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two women sentenced for attempting to smuggle Mexican child into U.S.

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LAREDO, Texas – Two U.S. citizens have been ordered to federal prison for attempting to bring a 7-year-old Mexican minor into the United States for personal financial gain, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Sisters Naidelyn Yuliana Vielma Jimenez, 22, Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, Mexico, and Bianca Jackeline Vielma Jimenez, 23, Laredo, pleaded guilty Sept. 17 and Oct. 17, 2024, respectively. 

    U.S. District Judge Diana Saldaña has now imposed a 36-month-term of imprisonment for both sisters to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. 

    On July 9, 2024, both women arrived at the Juarez-Lincoln International Bridge at Laredo along with their 16-year-old sister and a 7-year-old male. At that time, they all purported to be one family unit and that the male was their 15-year-old brother.  

    They showed authorities a video and photograph allegedly depicting the boy with their family. They also presented a copy of their 15-year-old brother’s documents as additional proof to convince them the child was their brother. 

    However, law enforcement did not believe the boy was the same one depicted and that the child in the vehicle was much younger. Further investigation revealed that the child was not related to the women.

    The two older sisters ultimately admitted they had made an agreement to smuggle the Mexican child into the United States and transport him to San Antonio for a fee of $3,000. 

    “Prior open border policies have inflicted an incalculable human toll, much of which has unfortunately fallen upon innocent children,” said Ganjei. “The Department of Justice, and, in particular, the Southern District of Texas, will do whatever it takes to destroy the market for the trafficking and smuggling of children. For those who profit off this misery, you will be found and prosecuted.”

    Both women were permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future

    Customs and Border Protection conducted this investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jose Homero Ramirez prosecuted this case. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Klobuchar, Smith Call on the New Administration to Reconsider Decision to Deactivate Federal Prison Camp Duluth

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn)
    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN) called on the Trump Administration’s Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) Acting Director William W. Lothrop to reconsider the decision to deactivate Federal Prison Camp (FPC) Duluth and ensure that BOP employees can continue to serve in Duluth.
    “The employees of FPC Duluth and their families strengthen the local economy and have deep roots in the Duluth area,” wrote the Senators. “They have expressed their frustration that the deactivation of FPC Duluth will mean either commuting to Federal Correctional Institution Sandstone — approximately 90 minutes away — relocating to a new state or leaving BOP altogether.”
    “We urge you to direct the Bureau of Prisons to reconsider its decision to deactivate FPC Duluth, and engage with the employees and community in Duluth,” the Senators continued.
    This letter is a follow-up to an earlier oversight letter that Senators Klobuchar and Smith sent to former Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) Director Colette Peters on December 23, 2024, expressing their concern regarding the deactivation.
    The full text of the letter is available here and below:
    Dear Acting Director Lothrop:
    This is a follow up to a letter we sent to former Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) Director Colette Peters on December 23, 2024, expressing our frustration and concern regarding the deactivation of Federal Prison Camp Duluth (FPC Duluth).  
    We renew our questions below:

    On what basis did the BOP determine that the facilities at FPC Duluth are dilapidated, and did the BOP do an assessment of how FPC Duluth’s facilities compare to other minimum-security facilities?

    Did the BOP solicit any input from the employees at FPC Duluth, local community leaders, or other stakeholders when making the decision to deactivate FPC Duluth?

    What steps is the BOP taking to ensure that employees whose livelihoods are impacted by FPC Duluth’s deactivation can remain in the Duluth area? 

    The employees of FPC Duluth and their families strengthen the local economy and have deep roots in the Duluth area. They have expressed their frustration that the deactivation of FPC Duluth will mean either commuting to Federal Correctional Institution Sandstone — approximately 90 minutes away — relocating to a new state or leaving BOP altogether. 
    We are disappointed that the BOP has not kept our offices briefed on its progress to ensure our constituents can find other employment and that the inmates are being transferred in accordance with the law. 
    We urge you to direct the Bureau of Prisons to reconsider its decision to deactivate FPC Duluth, and engage with the employees and community in Duluth.  
    Thank you for your attention to this important matter.
     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: With a ‘tradwife’ starring in Married at First Sight, a nostalgic vision of womanhood takes centre stage

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Christina Vogels, Senior Lecturer, School of Communication Studies, Auckland University of Technology

    Da Antipina/Shutterstock

    When Married at First Sight Australia bride Lauren Hall said her main goal was to “serve” her man, the reality show contestant was reflecting a growing trend in western culture – the so-called tradwife lifestyle.

    Tradwives are women who choose to take up traditional gendered roles within the home, centred around serving their husband and children. This version of wifehood is underpinned by a deference to one’s husband.

    Because of this, tradwives tend to be financially dependent on their husbands and many also give over decision-making rights to their husbands. In essence, the tradwife lifestyle rejects the past seven decades of feminism.

    But why is being a tradwife growing in popularity in 2025, and how has it become so marketable?

    The rise (or return) of tradwives

    Social media is partly to blame. The tradwife trend has risen in visibility across platforms such as Instagram and TikTok.

    Influencer Hannah Neeleman from Ballerina Farm is one of the most prolific tradwife influencers, topping ten-million followers on her Instagram page.

    Other Instagram accounts such as Ekaterina Anderson and Aria Lewis are popular in their own right, with followers ranging from 100,000 to 200,000.

    All promote a joy of domesticity. They post about their daily tasks of baking, preparing meals, raising children and, for many, connecting to the land and living sustainably.

    However, underneath this joy of domesticity is often an advocation of subservience. Many tradwives openly promote the daily pleasure they get from serving their husbands, who they argue are the “natural” head of the household.

    Marketing a romanticised lifestyle

    Why, then, is this version of femininity so desirable?

    For one, tradwives market a romanticised lifestyle. Theirs is reminiscent of the 1950s: a golden age economically, where employment was high, consumables were affordable and the male breadwinner was supported at home by a subservient wife.

    The tradwife lifestyle also promotes a pioneering domesticity. Tradwife influencers often post about baking their own bread, make their own preserves and mending their family’s clothes.

    Many also wear pioneering-type clothing – blouses and long skirts with the signature tradwife apron. A number of tradwives such as Aria Lewis also have their own clothing and merchandise lines for their followers to buy.

    People’s need for “ontological security” (security of the self) – a term coined in 1984 by sociologist Anthony Giddens – is another reason why the tradwife lifestyle is followed by so many women today.

    Broadly speaking, ontological security denotes a desire for a stable identity. Academics Catarina Kinnvall and Jennifer Mitzen offer this explanation:

    As the world is becoming more fragile, contentious, and conflictual, we are, Giddens argues, prone to seek a sense of security, a “protective cocoon”, in established norms and routines and in beliefs about particular narratives of home and secure pasts.

    The tradwife identity offers women this security: a stable, strictly defined and seemingly uncomplicated identity that is predicated solely on serving one’s husband and children. The nostalgia for the 1950s and the pioneering “return to basics” life feeds this sense of security.

    A double entanglement

    It also seems women are desiring the tradwife lifestyle due to the damaging effects of “double entanglement”.

    Society constantly tells women they can “have it all”: sexual freedom, any career they desire and an ability to choose whether or not to become mothers.

    In reality, however, this is an empty promise. Sexually assertive women, women who appear overly dominant in the workplace, and women who choose not to mother are often heavily shamed in society.

    Herein lies the double-entanglement. Women are told they can choose how to live their lives but are then shamed for choosing ways of living that are actually seen as unfeminine.

    It is possible the tradwife identity offers women a version of femininity that provides safe haven from being shamed as “pariahs” in society.

    Sadly, though, there is no safe haven. When you strip away the romanticism of domesticity, the tradwife lifestyle only furthers the difficulties women face today by breeding a deep misogyny that is based on an intense subjugation of women.

    The new female right

    This misogyny is further entrenched by many tradwives’ association with the far-right women’s movement, which is gaining popularity within the United States.

    The BBC’s America’s New Female Right documentary explores the rise of this movement and how it further feeds into narratives that femininity ought to be based on submission to men.

    It seems this version of womanhood will only gain momentum as the world veers even farther to the far right. The uncertainty of today – with frequent economic crises, climate emergencies and other crises of humanity – will only fuel the need for a nostalgic, seemingly simpler life.

    On the surface, this is what many feel a traditional return to womanhood offers. But the costs of giving up the gains of feminism are not clear.

    Christina Vogels does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. With a ‘tradwife’ starring in Married at First Sight, a nostalgic vision of womanhood takes centre stage – https://theconversation.com/with-a-tradwife-starring-in-married-at-first-sight-a-nostalgic-vision-of-womanhood-takes-centre-stage-248861

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Get future ready with the employability and skills conference!

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    (L-R) Tracy Rice (Southern Regional College & ABC LMP Chairperson); Councillor Sarah Duffy (Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon) and Alderman Paul Greenfield (Economic Development and Regeneration Committee Chair) at the launch of the Employability and Skills Conference.

    The annual Employability and Skills Conference returns to Armagh City Hotel on Thursday 13 March! The event will focus on helping businesses to ‘get future ready’ by recruiting, retaining and reskilling a resilient and talented workforce to help secure the future growth of the local economy.

    The ‘Get Future Ready: Employability and Skills’ series is part of the Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Labour Market Partnership. Funded by the Department for Communities, Labour Market Partnerships create targeted employment action plans for council areas, allowing for collaboration at local and regional level to support people towards and into work.

    Hosted by Mark Simpson, this event is open to all local employers, residents and community representatives as well as education and training providers and employment support agencies.

    A host of keynote speakers will share their experience and insights, including Dr Eoin Magennis from Ulster University (‘The Future is Now – Setting the Scene’); Ann Watt from Pivotal (‘Tackling Economic Inactivity with Innovative Workforce Strategies’) and Kathleen O’Hare from Northern Ireland Skills Council (‘Crafting Tomorrow’s Talent: How NI is Shaping the Skills of the Future’). Elaine Leonard from The Appleby Trust will discuss the subject of Embracing Neurodiversity and Unlocking unique strengths for a Thriving Workforce.

    Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Councillor Sarah Duffy commented:

    “The Employability and Skills Conference is a key event for local employers and job seekers to explore the economic developments and challenges and to address the skills and abilities that will be needed in the workplace going forward.

    “I look forward to welcoming our keynote speakers and business representatives who will be encouraging businesses to adapt and evolve to remain competitive, be open to new ideas, take calculated risks, experiment with different approaches and capitalise on the business support available.

    “Council is committed to working together with stakeholders to create a talented and motivated workforce to meet future challenges and to ensure everyone can benefit from a growing and vibrant economy.”

    The conference will also feature an insightful panel discussion on the evolving landscape of recruitment and training. Leading employers will share their perspectives on rethinking traditional hiring practices and upskilling strategies, highlighting innovative approaches that foster diversity, efficiency, and future-ready talent in the workplace.

    Attendees will have the chance to connect with a diverse range of exhibitors, fostering opportunities to advance recruitment, retention and reskilling options for their business.

    More information can be found at www.bit.ly/ABCconference2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why annexing Canada would destroy the United States

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Aisha Ahmad, Associate Professor, Political Science, University of Toronto

    As United States President Donald Trump relentlessly threatens to annex Canada, some Canadians are worried that an American invasion could one day become a reality.

    How would that scenario play out? Looking at the sheer size of the American military, many people might believe that Trump would enjoy an easy victory.

    That analysis is wrong. If Trump ever decides to use military force to annex Canada, the result would not be determined by a conventional military confrontation between the Canadian and American armies. Rather, a military invasion of Canada would trigger a decades-long violent resistance, which would ultimately destroy the United States.

    But in this nightmare scenario, could Canadians successfully resist an American invasion? Absolutely. I know this because I have studied insurgencies around the world for more than two decades, and I have spent time with ordinary people who have fought against powerful invading armies.



    Read more:
    Attempting to annex Canada would spell disaster for the U.S. at home and abroad

    How insurgencies begin

    The research on guerrilla wars clearly shows that weaker parties can use unconventional methods to cripple a more powerful enemy over many years. This approach treats waging war as a secret, part-time job that an ordinary person can do.

    Guerrillas use ambushes, raids and surprise attacks to slowly bleed an invading army, and local communities support these fighters by giving them safe havens and material support. These supporting citizens can also engage in forms of “everyday resistance,” using millions of passive-aggressive episodes of sabotage to frustrate and drain the enemy.

    Trump is delusional if he believes that 40 million Canadians will passively accept conquest without resistance. There is no political party or leader willing to relinquish Canadian sovereignty over “economic coercion,” and so if the U.S. wanted to annex Canada, it would have to invade.

    That decision would set in motion an unstoppable cycle of violence. Even if we imagine a scenario in which the Canadian government unconditionally surrenders, a fight would ensue on the streets. A teenager might throw a rock at invading soldiers. That kid would get shot, and then there would be more rocks, and more gunfire. An insurgency would be inevitable.

    The myth of Canadian ‘niceness’

    This idea may shock Canadians today because they see themselves as friendly and affable people. However, Canada’s current self-image of “niceness” only exists because they’re at peace. War changes people very quickly, and Canadians are no more innately peaceful than any other human beings.

    When your child is dying in your arms, you become capable of violence. Once you lose what you love, resistance becomes as natural as breathing.

    Except for a few collaborators and kapos, my research suggests many Canadians would likely engage in various forms of everyday resistance against invading forces that could involve steal, lying, cutting wires and diverting funds.

    Meanwhile, the insurgents would unleash physical devastation on American targets. Even if one per cent of all resisting Canadians engaged in armed insurrection, that would constitute a 400,000-person insurgency, nearly 10 times the size of Taliban at the start of the Afghan war. If a fraction of that number engaged in violent attacks, it would set fire to the entire continent.

    Canada’s geography would make this insurgency difficult to defeat. With deep forests and rugged mountains, Canada’s northern terrain could not be conquered or controlled. That means loyalists from the Canadian Armed Forces could mobilize civilian recruits into decentralized fighting units that could strike, retreat into the wilderness and blend back into the local communities that support them.

    The Canada-U.S. border is also easy to cross, which would give insurgents access to American critical infrastructure. It costs tens of billions of dollars to build an energy pipeline, and only a few thousand to blow one up.

    What about American air strikes?

    But wouldn’t the Americans crush the rebellion with missiles and drone strikes? They would try, but that approach to counterinsurgency won’t work.

    In fact, it is a well-known booby trap of insurgent warfare. The harder more powerful nations strike, the larger and more fragmented the insurgency becomes, making it impossible to achieve either a military victory or negotiated agreement. Canada’s rugged terrain would protect insurgents from those types of attacks, while global outrage at the bombings would only boost support for the rebellion.

    Americans have already been defeated by insurgents in many parts of the world because they could not escape this trap. If they dare to invade Canada, they would create this unsolvable security problem on their own soil.

    Russia and China rise to power

    How could Canadians pay for this decades-long insurgency? The answer lies in every single historical example of the old adage: “The enemy of my enemy is my friend.”

    The prospect of Americans becoming trapped by an insurgency on their own continent would delight Moscow and Beijing, which could easily establish covert northern passages to send weapons to the insurgency. Financing an insurgency is an effective way to ensnare and bankrupt a rival power, as counter-insurgency operations are exponentially more expensive than the price of a few arms shipments.

    A chronic violent insurrection in North America could financially and militarily pin down the U.S. for decades, ultimately triggering economic and political collapse. Russia and China, meantime, would enjoy an uncontested rise to power.

    Forewarned

    This scenario would guarantee the destruction of both Canada and the United States. No one in their right mind would choose this gruesome future over a peaceful and mutually beneficial alliance with a friendly neighbour.

    Nevertheless, if Trump is reckless enough to think the violent annexation of Canada is an achievable goal, then let it be known that all these horrifying outcomes were predictable well in advance, and that he was forewarned.

    Aisha Ahmad has received funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

    – ref. Why annexing Canada would destroy the United States – https://theconversation.com/why-annexing-canada-would-destroy-the-united-states-249561

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: Madrona-backed Gradial to Expand Agentic AI Ecosystem with Three Strategic Hires

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SEATTLE, Feb. 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gradial, the agentic AI content supply chain company backed by Madrona Venture Group, has tapped three strategic hires to expand the company’s ecosystem of technology platforms, digital experience agencies and enterprise customers. Jason Michaels joins as head of partnerships, Lisa Hillman as head of customer success and Cara Olson as a senior account executive.

    Gradial is an agentic AI platform that supercharges content supply chains, enabling enterprises to drive smarter and faster engagements. The tool allows marketing teams to automate content updates, streamline enterprise migrations and generate pages at scale, breaking free from legacy systems and eliminating content debt. Large enterprises use anywhere from tens to hundreds to marketing technology tools but, according to research from Foundry, an IDG, Inc. company, only 29 percent of companies say they have the right tech to manage content across the organization, 32 percent have the technology but aren’t using its potential, and 28 percent say they haven’t acquired the right technology.

    Founded in 2024, Gradial is already reducing friction, delivering operational cost savings and accelerating publishing speeds for Fortune 500 brands in the technology, healthcare, retail and financial services sectors. Over the past year, the company has also established strategic partnerships with companies such as Slalom, Huge, Dentsu, Infogain and EPAM Systems, delivering transformation initiatives for marketing leaders at world-leading companies.

    “Gradial is changing the game for modern marketing teams, empowering them to focus on high-impact customer experiences and use Gradial to deliver, integrate and optimize content across the entire enterprise,” said Doug Tallmadge, Gradial’s co-founder and CEO. “Bringing in Jason, Lisa and Cara to build partnerships across the digital experience ecosystem represents the next evolution of our mission of creating agentic AI at enterprise scale.”

    Michaels joins Gradial from Accenture Song, where he built and served as head of agency services for North America, leading a 1,000-person team responsible for strategic partnerships, digital user experiences and content supply chain optimization, and working with blue chip clients including Cisco, Intel, Microsoft and TIAA. Previously, he was managing director and chief strategy officer at Wire Stone, a creative marketing and user experience agency that Accenture acquired to amplify its marketing agency services business unit.

    Hillman joins from Kaiser Permanente, the largest managed care company in the United States, where she was a senior director for digital services. Previously, she held senior corporate strategy, digital experience and operations roles at T-Mobile, worked with Fortune 500 companies as a consultant at Accenture, and served as chief operating officer at venture capital firm Tola Capital.

    Olson joins from Merkle, a global digital marketing and customer experience agency, where she served as growth orchestration and enable officer as well as senior director for partnerships. Previously, she was senior director of partnerships and director of relationship marketing at DEG Digital, a digital experience, commerce and advertising services agency.

    “When I saw Gradial, I saw something readily adoptable that customers already wanted but couldn’t find anywhere else,” said Michaels. “The product is powerful and the roadmap is exciting. Gradial has the opportunity to truly transform how enterprises and marketing teams operate at a scale I’ve never seen before.”

    About Gradial

    Founded by veterans of SpaceX and Microsoft and backed by Madrona Venture Group, Gradial is building a modern marketing content supply chain, partnering with enterprises, agencies and technology platforms to deliver reimagined digital experiences at scale. To learn more, visit https://gradial.com/.

    Media Contact:
    Sam Butler for Gradial
    sam@35thAvenuePartners.com

    The MIL Network –