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Category: Economy

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Questionable European intelligence service reports on an impending Russian attack on the EU as a pretext for debt-financed arms build-up programmes – E-001291/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001291/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Petra Steger (PfE)

    The threat posed by Russia, despite its rather limited military successes after more than three years of war in Ukraine, is being deliberately exaggerated in EU propaganda in order to instil maximum fear in the European population and create a supposed need for debt-financed arms build-up programmes costing billions. For instance, citing European intelligence service reports, Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas have been warning for months about an attack by Russia on EU Member States that may be in the offing over the next few years. Those intelligence service reports also form the basis for the Commission’s case for the EUR 800 billion ‘ReArm Europe’ military build-up plan presented on 4 March 2025. However, no mention is made by those in charge of what this supposed attack might specifically involve or how Russia’s army, which is not in good shape, would be able to make such a threat a reality.

    • 1.What are the specific European intelligence service reports that are cited by the Commission, and what solid evidence and information is there that backs up its alarming warnings?
    • 2.How does the Commission justify the potential misuse of unrealistic intelligence service reports to provide grounds for a debt-financed arms build-up programme costing billions?
    • 3.What other security threat analyses have been contracted by the Commission, and how high do they assess the likelihood of an actual attack by Russia on EU Member States?

    Submitted: 27.3.2025

    Last updated: 2 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Public Hearing on the impact of markets in crypto-assets on financial stability – NEW – Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs

    Source: European Parliament

    The Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs (ECON) will hold a hearing to assess whether the growing importance of markets in crypto-assets has the potential to affect financial stability, on 8 April 2025.

    The hearing should allow Members of the European Parliament to gather from the invited experts additional information if the Union is equipped with a comprehensive policy and regulatory response to address possible risks of crypto-assets to financial stability.

    Link to the supporting documents of the hearing.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – ECON-ENVI: Exchange of views on Taxonomy – NEW – Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs

    Source: European Parliament

    © European Union (2024) – European Parliament

    On 8 April 2025 from 17:00 to 18:00, ECON and ENVI Members will exchange views with Maria Luís Albuquerque, Commissioner for Financial Services and the Savings and Investments Union, on the draft Delegated Regulation amending three key Delegated Acts adopted under the EU Taxonomy Regulation, namely the Disclosures (Delegated Regulation (EU) 2021/2178), Climate (Delegated Regulation (EU) 2021/2139) and Environment (Delegated Regulation (EU) 2023/2486) Delegated Acts.

    The draft delegated act was published for consultation on 26 February 2025 as part of the Omnibus I simplification package on sustainability reporting and due diligence. With the aim of reducing and simplifying reporting of companies, the draft act proposes, amongst others, to i) introduce a financial materiality threshold; ii) modify the disclosures templates; iii) adjust the Green Asset Ratio for banks, by excluding exposures related to companies which are outside the future proposed scope of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive; and iv) simplify the “Do no Significant harm” criteria for pollution prevention and control related to the use and presence of chemicals.
    The Commission is planning to adopt the delegated act in the course of April 2025, triggering then the official 4-month scrutiny period by the Parliament and the Council.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the immediate risk of further repression by Lukashenka’s regime in Belarus – threats from the Investigative Committee – RC-B10-0219/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    pursuant to Rules 150(5) and 136(4) of the Rules of Procedure
    replacing the following motions:
    B10‑0219/2025 (Verts/ALE)
    B10‑0221/2025 (S&D)
    B10‑0223/2025 (ECR)
    B10‑0227/2025 (Renew)
    B10‑0229/2025 (PPE)

    Sebastião Bugalho, Miriam Lexmann, Michael Gahler, Isabel Wiseler‑Lima, Michał Wawrykiewicz, Tomas Tobé, Dariusz Joński, Luděk Niedermayer, Seán Kelly, Vangelis Meimarakis, Andrey Kovatchev, Wouter Beke, Danuše Nerudová, Loránt Vincze, Jessica Polfjärd, Sandra Kalniete, Łukasz Kohut, Antonio López‑Istúriz White, Tomáš Zdechovský, Inese Vaidere
    on behalf of the PPE Group
    Yannis Maniatis, Francisco Assis, Robert Biedroń
    on behalf of the S&D Group
    Adam Bielan, Małgorzata Gosiewska, Mariusz Kamiński, Bogdan Rzońca, Arkadiusz Mularczyk, Jadwiga Wiśniewska, Rihards Kols, Michał Dworczyk, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Maciej Wąsik, Reinis Pozņaks, Ivaylo Valchev, Marlena Maląg, Aurelijus Veryga, Joachim Stanisław Brudziński, Dick Erixon, Charlie Weimers, Beatrice Timgren, Ondřej Krutílek, Veronika Vrecionová, Assita Kanko, Alexandr Vondra, Roberts Zīle
    on behalf of the ECR Group
    Michał Kobosko, Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez, Petras Auštrevičius, Malik Azmani, Dan Barna, Helmut Brandstätter, Olivier Chastel, Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová, Engin Eroglu, Svenja Hahn, Karin Karlsbro, Ľubica Karvašová, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Jan‑Christoph Oetjen, Urmas Paet, Marie‑Agnes Strack‑Zimmermann, Eugen Tomac, Hilde Vautmans, Lucia Yar, Dainius Žalimas
    on behalf of the Renew Group
    Mārtiņš Staķis
    on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group
    Merja Kyllönen, Jonas Sjöstedt, Hanna Gedin, Per Clausen, Jussi Saramo, Li Andersson

    European Parliament resolution on the immediate risk of further repression by Lukashenka’s regime in Belarus – threats from the Investigative Committee

    (2025/2629(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to its previous resolutions on Belarus,

    – having regard to Rules 150(5) and 136(4) of its Rules of Procedure,

    A. whereas the Lukashenka regime has been escalating internal and transnational repression to dismantle the structures representing the democratic forces of Belarus;

    B. whereas UN experts recently confirmed arbitrary arrests and detentions, accompanied by torture or ill treatment and even reported evidence for crimes against humanity; whereas more than 1 200 political prisoners, including Viktoryia Kulsha, Volha Mayorava, Alena Hnauk and Andrzej Poczobut, are still jailed;

    C. whereas the Belarusian Investigative Committee has opened ‘special proceedings’ against hundreds of Belarusians who joined rallies in various European cities or ran in the Coordination Council’s elections; whereas the families of the Belarusian diaspora were threatened with imprisonment and asset confiscation if they participated in Freedom Day protests;

    D. whereas Lukashenka’s regime is exploiting the expiry of many Belarusian passports to force the diaspora to return to Belarus;

    E. whereas the Belarusian regime’s increasing cooperation with Russian security services heightens the risk of coordinated repression, surveillance and hybrid threats in EU territory;

    F. whereas Belarusian state media dominates the information landscape; whereas US funding cuts have severely affected Belarus’s civil society and free media;

    1. Demands that Lukashenka’s regime immediately cease its repression, including the surveillance of exiles and demonstrators, and release and rehabilitate all political prisoners;

    2. Strongly condemns the continued expansion of repression by the Lukashenka regime, which now targets Belarusians abroad with criminal prosecution, asset seizures and other measures designed to silence dissent;

    3. Calls for EU-wide legal support and protection for exiled Belarusians by simplifying procedures for obtaining visas, resident permits and provisional IDs for individuals made stateless by extraterritorial persecution;

    4. Reiterates its non-recognition of Lukashenka and considers the persecution of Belarusian citizens for peaceful democratic activities abroad via Investigative Committee ‘special proceedings’ to be a direct violation of the Member States’ territorial sovereignty; urges, therefore, the countries concerned to disregard Interpol arrest warrants for the extradition of Lukashenka’s political opponents;

    5. Welcomes the sanctions on the President Property Management Directorate and the Central Election Commission, which issued politically motivated judgments;

    6. Urges the Member States to impose further sanctions equal to those imposed on Russia, particularly on officials responsible for transnational repression;

    7. Urges the EU and its Member States to increase political, financial and technical support for the independent media, human rights defenders, trade unions and civil society initiatives operating within and outside Belarus, including monitoring trials and increasing the visibility of political prisoners;

    8. Calls on the VP/HR to use INTCEN and EDMO to counteract Belarusian intelligence operations and disinformation;

    9. Urges the International Criminal Court to expedite proceedings on crimes against humanity by Lukashenka’s regime and demands that Member States pursue accountability through national proceedings, based on the principle of universal jurisdiction;

    10. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the VP/HR, the Council, the representatives of the Belarusian democratic forces and the Belarusian de facto authorities.

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – The European Competitiveness Fund: strengthening EU leadership in strategic technologies – E-000297/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    As part of the next multiannual financial framework, the Commission intends to propose a European Competitiveness Fund[1], which will establish an investment capacity to support strategic sectors and technologies critical to the EU competitiveness, including research and innovation, and Important Projects of Common European Interest[2].

    At this point, the size of the fund is not yet known. This will depend on a number of factors, including the priorities of the co-legislators.

    As announced in the communication on ‘The Road to the next Multiannual Financial Framework’ of 11 February 2025[3], the Commission will make a proposal for the next multiannual financial framework in July 2025, with a view to securing a timely agreement before the start of its implementation in January 2028.

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/10017eb1-4722-4333-add2-e0ed18105a34_en
    • [2] https://competition-policy.ec.europa.eu/state-aid/ipcei_en
    • [3] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/6d47acb4-9206-4d0f-8f9b-3b10cad7b1ed_en?filename=Communication%20on%20the%20road%20to%20the%20next%20MFF_en.pdf
    Last updated: 2 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Jobs under threat at SIAE Microelettronica SpA – E-002383/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Italy’s Recovery and Resilience Plan provides for the financing for a total of EUR 1.5 billion of the so-called ‘IPCEI Fund’, which is also financed through national resources.

    The objective of the measure is to provide support through the Important Projects of Common European Interest (IPCEI) Fund to projects belonging to four IPCEIs, namely, (i) the ‘Microelectronics and Communication Technologies’ IPCEI, (ii) the ‘Hydrogen Technology value chain’ IPCEI, (iii) the ‘Hydrogen related infrastructure and applications in the industrial sector’ IPCEI and (iv) the ‘Next Generation Cloud Infrastructure and Services’ IPCEI.

    The Commission notes that innovative projects are generally expected to result in the creation of highly skilled jobs by the enterprises that undertake them.

    The Commission is committed to strengthening the global competitiveness of the EU industry and net-zero technologies supply chains.

    Such initiatives aim to provide predictability, certainty and long-term signals to incentivise demand and create conditions that facilitate investments in net-zero technology manufacturing, while supporting the workforce needed in this sector.

    This work will draw on the report by Mario Draghi with the goal to enable sustainable prosperity and competitiveness. As its first major initiative, the Commission has presented a Competitiveness Compass that will frame the work for the rest of the term.

    The Commission has also launched a Clean Industrial Deal and proposes a Circular Economy Act, a European Competitiveness Fund, as well as risk-absorbing measures to promote private investments in innovation and the twin transition.

    The Commission will aim to ensure that these efforts benefit all, including by supporting quality jobs.

    Last updated: 2 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the execution spree in Iran and confirmation of the death sentences of activists Behrouz Ehsani and Mehdi Hassani – RC-B10-0220/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    pursuant to Rules 150(5) and 136(4) of the Rules of Procedure
    replacing the following motions:
    B10‑0220/2025 (Verts/ALE)
    B10‑0224/2025 (Renew)
    B10‑0225/2025 (S&D)
    B10‑0226/2025 (ECR)
    B10‑0228/2025 (PPE)

    Sebastião Bugalho, Loucas Fourlas, Michael Gahler, Isabel Wiseler‑Lima, Michał Wawrykiewicz, Tomas Tobé, Davor Ivo Stier, Luděk Niedermayer, Seán Kelly, Vangelis Meimarakis, Andrey Kovatchev, Wouter Beke, Danuše Nerudová, Loránt Vincze, Jessica Polfjärd, Łukasz Kohut, Antonio López‑Istúriz White, Tomáš Zdechovský, Miriam Lexmann, Inese Vaidere, Milan Zver
    on behalf of the PPE Group
    Yannis Maniatis, Francisco Assis, Daniel Attard, Evin Incir
    on behalf of the S&D Group
    Adam Bielan, Mariusz Kamiński, Reinis Pozņaks, Jadwiga Wiśniewska, Rihards Kols, Michał Dworczyk, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Maciej Wąsik, Aurelijus Veryga, Dick Erixon, Charlie Weimers, Beatrice Timgren, Ondřej Krutílek, Veronika Vrecionová, Waldemar Tomaszewski, Małgorzata Gosiewska, Assita Kanko, Alexandr Vondra
    on behalf of the ECR Group
    Helmut Brandstätter, Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez, Petras Auštrevičius, Malik Azmani, Dan Barna, Olivier Chastel, Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová, Engin Eroglu, Bart Groothuis, Svenja Hahn, Karin Karlsbro, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Nathalie Loiseau, Urmas Paet, Hilde Vautmans, Lucia Yar
    on behalf of the Renew Group
    Hannah Neumann
    on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group

    European Parliament resolution on the execution spree in Iran and confirmation of the death sentences of activists Behrouz Ehsani and Mehdi Hassani

    (2025/2628(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to its previous resolutions on Iran,

    – having regard to Rules 150(5) and 136(4) of its Rules of Procedure,

    A whereas Iran has the highest death sentence rate per capita in the world; whereas since the Women, Life, Freedom uprising in 2022, the Iranian authorities have embarked on an execution spree, including against dissidents, women, journalists and minorities;

    B whereas the human rights situation in Iran is worsening, including the systemic targeting of women, children and ethnic and religious minorities, such as Christians, Baha’is, Kurds and Baluchis;

    C. whereas according to Iran Human Rights, at least 975 people were executed in Iran in 2024, the highest number in more than two decades; whereas this includes individuals arrested as minors, as well as European citizens;

    D. whereas political prisoners Behrouz Ehsani and Mehdi Hassani were arrested in November 2022 and subjected to torture and prolonged solitary confinement, denied their basic rights during their incarceration and sentenced to death on charges of ‘armed rebellion against the state’, ‘enmity against God’ and ‘corruption on earth’;

    E. whereas several human rights defenders, including Pakhshan Azizi, Wirishe Moradi, Mahvash Sabet and Sharifeh Mohammadi, face severe persecution in Iran, with some sentenced to death and others imprisoned;

    1. Reiterates its strong opposition to the death penalty; urges the Iranian Government to introduce an immediate moratorium leading to its abolition;

    2. Condemns the decision by Iran’s Supreme Court to uphold the death sentence against Behrouz Ehsani and Mehdi Hassani, detained under inhumane conditions and subjected to unfair trials;

    3. Calls for their release, together with all prisoners currently on death row for political activism; recalls, in particular, the urgent cases of Pakhshan Azizi, Wirishe Moradi, Sharifeh Mohammadi and Mahvash Sabet;

    4. Condemns the unprecedented rise in executions and the systematic targeting of human rights activists and minorities through the death penalty and persecutions, in particular Christians, Baha’is, Kurds and Baluchis; calls for the immediate and unconditional release of individuals detained on account of their religion or belief;

    5. Demands the immediate release and repatriation of and dropping of all charges against condemned EU nationals, including Cécile Kohler, Jacques Paris and Ahmadreza Djalali; condemns Iran’s use of hostage diplomacy;

    6. Calls on the Council and Member States to make the abolition of the death sentence and the release of political prisoners and EU nationals a condition for improving relations with Iran;

    7. Reiterates its call on Iran to give the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Iran and the UN Fact-Finding Mission unimpeded access to the country;

    8. Reiterates its call on the Council to designate the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps a terrorist organisation and continue identifying and sanctioning Iranian officials responsible for human rights violations;

    9. Encourages the Commission and Member States to expand technical and financial assistance for Iranian civil society;

    10. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the VP/HR, the Islamic Consultative Assembly and the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

     

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Enhancing transparency in transition finance for retail investors – E-000303/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission work programme for 2025 contains a proposal to revise the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation, planned for the fourth quarter of 2025[1].

    This will take into account the feedback received in the consultations carried out in 2023 and summarised in a statement published in May 2024[2], as well as several other inputs received since then[3].

    This feedback generally reflects support for the creation of simple and standardised financial product categories for investments toward sustainability objectives, including one dedicated to facilitating the transition of activities and companies. The Commission will duly consider this feedback in its proposal.

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/strategy-documents/commission-work-programme/commission-work-programme-2025_en
    • [2] https://finance.ec.europa.eu/document/download/0f2cfde1-12b0-4860-b548-0393ac5b592b_en?filename=2023-sfdr-implementation-summary-of-responses_en.pdf
    • [3] E.g. ESAs propose improvements to the sustainable finance disclosure regulation: https://www.esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esas-propose-improvements-sustainable-finance-disclosure-regulation ;Platform on Sustainable Finance on the Categorisation of products under SFDR — Report: https://finance.ec.europa.eu/publications/categorisation-products-under-sfdr-proposal-platform-sustainable-finance_en
    Last updated: 2 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – The EU’s funding of Turkish NGOs – E-002366/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    A total of 15 cooperation projects or youth mobility activities led by this organisation have been supported by the current Erasmus+ programme (grant amount of EUR 717 103[1]) and seven projects by the European Solidarity Corps (for an overall EUR 58 956[2]) .

    They have been selected by the national agency responsible for the implementation of the programme in Türkiye, in line with indirect management procedures and the criteria defined in the programmes’ calls for proposals. This organisation is also a partner in Erasmus+ projects from other organisations, selected by other national agencies.

    The Commission is bound to ensure that persons and entities involved in criminal, unethical practices or activities incompatible with EU values do not receive EU financial support.

    The Financial Regulation introduced an explicit ground under the Early Detection and Exclusion System[3], for excluding entities from receiving EU funding where they have been found to engage in activities contrary to the values on which the EU is founded, such as incitement to discrimination, hatred or violence.

    Mechanisms framed by the EU Financial Regulation[4] and relevant agreements concluded with recipients of EU funds have been put in place to safeguard and monitor the proper use of these funds.

    Should the Commission become aware of any evidence in this respect, it will immediately act on any evidence of such violations by specific entities by taking appropriate measures such as suspension of contract or payments, contract termination, recovery or exclusion from EU financing.

    The Commission , through the national agency, will continuously monitor the situation and, if problems arise with the proper implementation of the projects, will decide on the above possible measures.

    • [1] https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu/projects
    • [2] https://youth.europa.eu/solidarity/projects/
    • [3] https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/eu-budget/how-it-works/annual-lifecycle/implementation/anti-fraud-measures/edes/edes-database_en
    • [4] Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 September 2024 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union (recast), OJ L, 2024/2509, 26.9.2024.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Unlawful receipt of EU funds by Polish local authorities maintaining discriminatory ‘Family Rights Charters’ – P-000977/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Under the EU Cohesion Policy, the rules require Member States and the Commission to prevent discrimination in the preparation and implementation of programmes supported by the funds.[1] In addition, the funds have to be implemented in compliance with the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights (the Charter).[2]

    Poland introduced an anti-discrimination clause in its 2021-2027 Cohesion programmes that ensures that Cohesion policy support will only be provided to projects and beneficiaries that comply with the anti-discrimination provisions of the Common Provisions Regulation (CPR).

    Moreover, where the beneficiary is a local authority (or an entity controlled by or dependent on it) which has taken any discriminatory action support under cohesion policy cannot be granted.

    As regards the complaint on the ‘Family Right Charters’, the Commission closed it since the matter is being addressed at national level with the Polish Ministry of Development Funds and Regional Policy having requested the Polish Ombudsman to assess this matter.

    The Ombudsman has conducted a detailed assessment of the content of these charters. Currently, the local governments are analysing the Ombudsman’s comments to address his concerns.[3]

    The Commission remains committed to protect LGBTIQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, non-binary, intersex and queer) rights in the EU, as set out in the framework of the LGBTQ Equality Strategy 2020-2025[4].

    As announced in the Commission President’s Political Guidelines[5] and in the 2025 Commission Work Programme[6], the strategy will be renewed beyond 2025.

    As guardian of the Treaties, the Commission will continue to make sure that, when implementing EU law and EU-funded programmes, the principle of non-discrimination is fully respected.

    • [1] Article 9 (3) of 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 — https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2021/1060/oj/eng
    • [2] Article 9 (1) of Regulation (EU) 2021/1060 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 June 2021 — https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2021/1060/oj/eng
    • [3] https://bip.brpo.gov.pl/pl/content/rpo-samorzadowa-karta-praw-rodzin-watpliwosci-odpowiedzi
    • [4] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:52020DC0698
    • [5] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/e6cd4328-673c-4e7a-8683-f63ffb2cf648_en?filename=Political%20Guidelines%202024-2029_EN.pdf
    • [6] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/7617998c-86e6-4a74-b33c-249e8a7938cd_en?filename=COM_2025_45_1_annexes_EN.pdf

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Spanish Government uses a Royal Decree-Law to undermine the role of the Senate, creating legal uncertainty – E-000004/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission places great importance on ensuring that all EU Member States uphold rule of law. It has various instruments at its disposal to actively promote and protect the rule of law, as part of its rule of law toolbox.

    This includes monitoring through the annual Rule of Law Report and in the context of the European Semester, as well as the possibility to initiate infringement procedures when necessary.

    Further, the Conditionality Regulation[1] applies in case of breaches of the principles of the rule of law, which affect or seriously risk affecting the sound financial management of the Union budget or the protection of the financial interests of the EU in a sufficiently direct way.

    The Commission also provides technical and financial assistance to the Member States to support judicial reforms, ultimately boosting the rule of law.

    The Commission does not comment on the role of the Senate in the Spanish constitutional system, which is a matter of Spanish law.

    In its role as guardian of the Treaties, the Commission remains committed to taking necessary measures to ensure compliance with EU law in all Member States and will continue to work with the Spanish authorities to promote the rule of law.

    • [1] Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2020/2092.
    Last updated: 2 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Eastern Shield – P-001157/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-001157/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Anna Bryłka (PfE)

    At a press conference in Brussels on 28 June 2024, Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced that he had obtained European leaders’ agreement for EU co-financing of defence efforts as part of the East Shield. In February, he reported that the decision to allocate EUR 100 million to Poland had already been taken in December 2024.

    In connection with the above, could the Commission answer the following questions:

    • 1.What is the decision-making process for the allocation of funds for the East Shield project? In your answer, please indicate the deadlines and scope of the application submitted by Poland, as well as the current and anticipated steps in the Commission’s decision‑making process.
    • 2.From which sources (transfers in the general budget, loans, national envelope, existing funds, projected funds, etc.) does the Commission intend to finance the implementation of this project?

    Submitted: 19.3.2025

    Last updated: 2 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: NANO Nuclear and University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Sign Landmark Agreement to Build the First KRONOS MMR™ Research Reactor

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Site Selected and Preparatory Work to Begin for Construction Permit Application as NANO Nuclear Accelerates Toward Microreactor Deployment

    NEW YORK, NY, April 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) (“NANO Nuclear” or “the Company”), a leading advanced nuclear energy and technology company focused on developing clean energy solutions, is pleased to announce the signing of a strategic collaboration with the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (U. of I.) to construct the first research KRONOS micro modular reactor (MMR) on the university’s campus.

    The agreement formally establishes U. of I. as a partner in the licensing, siting, public engagement, and research operation of the KRONOS MMR, while also identifying the university campus as the permanent site for the reactor as a research and demonstration installation. This milestone marks the beginning of site-specific development for NANO Nuclear’s advanced KRONOS MMR technology and represents a defining moment in NANO Nuclear’s path to commercialization of the KRONOS MMR Energy System.

    “This is the milestone we’ve been working so diligently towards, transforming design into reality,” said Jay Yu, Founder and Chairman of NANO Nuclear Energy. “With a site now selected and a world-class university as our partner, we are positioned to be among the first companies to deliver advanced reactor systems within the United States. This isn’t just a research reactor, it’s a proving ground for the future of safe, portable, and resilient nuclear energy. Moreover, this agreement will serve as a foundation for our long-term reactor strategy. Every milestone from this point forward brings us closer to delivering the next generation of nuclear energy to communities, campuses, and industries across the world.”

    Figure 1 – NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. Signs Strategic Collaboration with the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign for the KRONOS MMR

    Following initial arrangements, NANO Nuclear will begin the process of geological characterization, including subsurface investigations, to support preparation of a Construction Permit Application (CPA) for submission to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). This preparatory work is essential to understanding the environmental parameters of the site, including critical inputs to safety analysis, to ensure the utmost reliability and safety of the facility, and support NANO Nuclear’s Preliminary Safety Analysis Report (PSAR) and Environmental Report (ER).

    “The start of geotechnical investigations represents our first physical action toward constructing the KRONOS MMR,” said James Walker, Chief Executive Officer of NANO Nuclear. “This is a powerful signal to the industry, to investors, and to regulators: NANO Nuclear is building. We are not theorizing. We are much beyond conceptualizing. We are moving toward construction, and this is only the first step.”

    Figure 2 – Rendering of NANO Nuclear’s KRONOS MMR™ Energy System at the University of Illinois.

    Through this strategic collaboration, U. of I. and NANO Nuclear will work together throughout the regulatory licensing process, plant design implementation, public and stakeholder engagement, and workforce development. The collaboration builds on the university’s prior experience and engagement with nuclear regulators, while introducing an advanced and simplified reactor system to lead the next generation of clean energy deployment.

    “The KRONOS MMR project can not only be a national first, it can be a first for academia, enabling students, researchers, regulators, and the public to learn directly from a real-world microreactor development effort,” said Illinois Grainger Engineering Professor Caleb Brooks, Principal Investigator for the University of Illinois. “This system can be the most advanced nuclear research platform on any U.S. campus, with the potential to enable a new paradigm of nuclear power through education, research, and at scale demonstration.”

    As part of the agreement, U. of I. will lead the regulatory engagement with the NRC as well as public engagement, support licensing activities including the PSAR and Environmental Report, and play a key role in site layout, constructability assessment, and future operator training programs. NANO Nuclear will oversee plant design, construction, system integration, and commercial pathway development.

    “This agreement brings NANO Nuclear to the forefront of advanced reactors deployment in the United States,” said Dr. Florent Heidet, Chief Technology Officer and Head of Reactor Development of NANO Nuclear. “This construction project is where KRONOS’ engineering meets execution and demand. It will set a precedent for all future university-led nuclear technology reactor projects.”

    The KRONOS MMR Energy System, NANO Nuclear’s flagship micro modular reactor, is designed to redefine what’s possible in nuclear energy and features:

    • Truly modular, containerized construction.
    • Highest in class safety margins, creating an inherently safe reactor.
    • Rapid & flexible deployment capabilities for remote and secure applications.
    • Seamless integration with local grids, renewable grids and process heat systems.

    The KRONOS MMR Energy System leverages proven, state-of-the-art technology solutions, and combines them into a product that is not reliant on new breakthroughs or lengthy and costly research programs.

    This announcement reflects NANO Nuclear’s transition from design to deployment, initiating the first physical project work in the Company’s history. As preparations begin for regulatory licensing and construction activities, NANO Nuclear remains focused on delivering clean, safe, scalable energy through its advanced nuclear technologies.
    About The Grainger College of Engineering

    The Grainger College of Engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is one of the world’s top-ranked engineering institutions, and a globally recognized leader in engineering education, research and public engagement. With a diverse, tight-knit community of faculty, students and alumni, Grainger Engineering sets the standard for excellence in engineering, driving innovation in the economy and bringing revolutionary ideas to the world. Through robust research and discovery, our faculty, staff, students and alumni are changing our world and making advances once only dreamed about, including the MRI, LED, ILIAC, Mosaic, YouTube, flexible electronics, electric machinery, miniature batteries, imaging the black hole and flight on Mars. The world’s brightest minds from The Grainger College of Engineering tackle today’s toughest challenges. And they are building a better, cooler, safer tomorrow.
    Visit https://grainger.illinois.edu for more information.

    About NANO Nuclear Energy, Inc.

    NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) is an advanced technology-driven nuclear energy company seeking to become a commercially focused, diversified, and vertically integrated company across five business lines: (i) cutting edge portable and other microreactor technologies, (ii) nuclear fuel fabrication, (iii) nuclear fuel transportation, (iv) nuclear applications for space and (v) nuclear industry consulting services. NANO Nuclear believes it is the first portable nuclear microreactor company to be listed publicly in the U.S.

    Led by a world-class nuclear engineering team, NANO Nuclear’s reactor products in development include patented KRONOS MMR™ Energy System, a stationary high-temperature gas-cooled reactor that is in construction permit pre-application engagement U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) in collaboration with University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (U. of I.), “ZEUS”, a solid core battery reactor, and “ODIN”, a low-pressure coolant reactor, and the space focused, portable LOKI MMR™, each representing advanced developments in clean energy solutions that are portable, on-demand capable, advanced nuclear microreactors.

    Advanced Fuel Transportation Inc. (AFT), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is led by former executives from the largest transportation company in the world aiming to build a North American transportation company that will provide commercial quantities of HALEU fuel to small modular reactors, microreactor companies, national laboratories, military, and DOE programs. Through NANO Nuclear, AFT is the exclusive licensee of a patented high-capacity HALEU fuel transportation basket developed by three major U.S. national nuclear laboratories and funded by the Department of Energy. Assuming development and commercialization, AFT is expected to form part of the only vertically integrated nuclear fuel business of its kind in North America.

    HALEU Energy Fuel Inc. (HEF), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is focusing on the future development of a domestic source for a High-Assay, Low-Enriched Uranium (HALEU) fuel fabrication pipeline for NANO Nuclear’s own microreactors as well as the broader advanced nuclear reactor industry.

    NANO Nuclear Space Inc. (NNS), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is exploring the potential commercial applications of NANO Nuclear’s developing micronuclear reactor technology in space. NNS is focusing on applications such as the LOKI MMR™ system and other power systems for extraterrestrial projects and human sustaining environments, and potentially propulsion technology for long haul space missions. NNS’ initial focus will be on cis-lunar applications, referring to uses in the space region extending from Earth to the area surrounding the Moon’s surface.

    For more corporate information please visit: https://NanoNuclearEnergy.com/

    For further NANO Nuclear information, please contact:

    Email: IR@NANONuclearEnergy.com
    Business Tel: (212) 634-9206

    PLEASE FOLLOW OUR SOCIAL MEDIA PAGES HERE:

    NANO Nuclear Energy LINKEDIN

    NANO Nuclear Energy YOUTUBE

    NANO Nuclear Energy X PLATFORM

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements

    This news release and statements of NANO Nuclear’s management in connection with this news release contain or may contain “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”, “potential”, “will”, “should”, “could”, “would” or “may” and other words of similar meaning. In this press release, forward-looking statements include, among others, statements regarding the anticipated benefits to NANO Nuclear of its agreement with U. of I., as well as NANO Nuclear’s development plans, each as described herein. 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 significant known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may be beyond our control. For NANO Nuclear, 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: (i) risks related to our U.S. Department of Energy (“DOE”) or related state nuclear fuel licensing submissions, (ii) risks related the development of new or advanced technology and the acquisition of complimentary technology or businesses, including difficulties with design and testing, cost overruns, regulatory delays, integration issues and the development of competitive technology, (iii) our ability to obtain contracts and funding to be able to continue operations, (iv) risks related to uncertainty regarding our ability to technologically develop and commercially deploy a competitive advanced nuclear reactor or other technology in the timelines we anticipate, if ever, (v) risks related to the impact of government regulation and policies including by the DOE and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, including those associated with the recently enacted ADVANCE Act, and (vi) similar risks and uncertainties associated with the operating an early stage business a highly regulated and rapidly evolving industry. 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, and NANO Nuclear therefore encourages investors to review other factors that may affect future results in its filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov and at https://ir.nanonuclearenergy.com/financial-information/sec-filings. 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: Mountain America Names Kelly Albiston as Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    A Media Snippet accompanying this announcement is available by clicking on this link.

    SANDY, Utah, April 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Mountain America Credit Union recently named Kelly Albiston as its new executive vice president and chief technology officer. In this role, Albiston will lead Mountain America’s digital innovation and technology strategy, ensuring members continue receiving best-in-class banking experiences. Albiston brings extensive expertise in digital transformation, software development, and financial technology.

    “Kelly’s wealth of experience in leading the technology teams and promoting digital transformation makes him the right match for this position,” said Sterling Nielsen, president and chief executive officer of Mountain America. “His leadership and vision will play a key role in advancing our digital strategy, ensuring we continue delivering innovative solutions that empower our members.”

    Previously, he served as senior vice president of digital solutions and chief technology officer at Mountain America, where he spearheaded digital product development, enhanced member experiences, and led a global team of technology professionals. His leadership extended across multiple interaction points, including retail branches, online platforms, mobile applications, and digital communication channels.

    “I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to serve in this new capacity,” Albiston said. “Mountain America’s commitment to innovation is matched only by its dedication to people—both members and employees. I’m excited to help lead our technology strategy in a way that honors that culture, supports our teams, and keeps our members at the center of everything we do.”

    Before his 11-year tenure at Mountain America, Albiston cofounded Orbit Medical, a national leader in the medical equipment industry, where he served as chief information officer and, later, the chief financial officer. He has also contributed his expertise to several fintech advisory boards and Utah’s BoomStartup incubator.

    To learn more about Mountain America’s leadership, visit macu.com.

    About Mountain America Credit Union
    With more than 1 million members and $20 billion in assets, Mountain America Credit Union helps its members define and achieve their financial dreams. Mountain America provides consumers and businesses with a variety of convenient, flexible products and services, as well as sound, timely advice. Members enjoy access to secure, cutting-edge mobile banking technology, over 100 branches across multiple states, and more than 50,000 surcharge-free ATMs. Mountain America—guiding you forward. Learn more at macu.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Tenney Reintroduces Legislation to Safeguard Medicare Advantage Plans for Upstate New York Seniors

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

    Washington, DC – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today reintroduced legislation aimed at addressing reductions in Medicare Advantage (MA) access and benefits. The bill addresses reimbursement shortfalls to local MA plans from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Specifically, the bill allows CMS to adjust benchmark amounts based on local wage indices that have increased by 20 percent or more to ensure enrollees continue to receive comprehensive benefits and quality care.

    Rep Tenney was joined in introducing this legislation by Representatives Elise Stefanik (NY-21), Nick Langworthy (NY-23), and Mike Lawler (NY-17).

    In 2023, CMS made a needed adjustment to the wage index for Upstate New York hospitals, treating geographically rural and rural reclassified hospitals equally. This change led to wage index increases of 20-40% across Upstate New York. While this provided significant relief for hospitals that had been severely underpaid by the fee-for-service program, it inadvertently placed substantial financial pressure on regional MA plans, which are predominantly non-profit organizations. Because CMS did not account for these new costs in their benchmark rates for 2024, MA plans have experienced significant financial challenges that jeopardize plans’ ability to provide affordable, quality coverage to their beneficiaries. Without relief, health plans will be forced to cut benefits and increase premiums for seniors who can least afford it.

    Last week, Rep. Tenney sent a letter to CMS urging the agency to reassess the ongoing misalignment between hospital wage index increases and MA benchmark adjustments in Upstate New York.

    “Our community’s seniors deserve continued access to affordable, high-quality healthcare. Unfortunately, the payment disparity has already affected local plans’ offerings and limited seniors’ coverage choices. By adjusting the benchmark rates to reflect the increased costs faced by our regional plans, we can restore MA options for our seniors and protect them from higher premiums in the future. This bill will ensure that Medicare Advantage plans continue to provide the robust benefits that so many members of our community rely on,” said Congresswoman Tenney. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Pfluger, Mann Lead Push to Undo the Biden Administration’s Nonsensical Endangered Species Listings

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — As first reported in Fox News, Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) and Congressman Tracey Mann (KS-01) sent a letter to Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum urging him to reverse the listing of the Dunes Sagebrush Lizard and the Lesser Prairie Chicken from the threatened and endangered species list. Doing so would unleash American energy, highlight the success of local conservation efforts, and restore regulatory certainty for rural communities.

    Under the Biden Administration, the Dunes Sagebrush Lizard and the Lesser Prairie Chicken were listed as endangered species, ignoring the conservation efforts already being made by Texas and Kansas farmers, ranchers, and agricultural and energy producers. The efforts resulted in net acreage conservation gains for the Dunes Sagebrush Lizards’ habitat and increased the Lesser Prairie Chicken population. In the letter to Secretary Burgum, the Members stress that the Trump Administration has the opportunity to correct these misguided listings and ensure America can maintain its energy dominance.

    In the letter, the members write in part, “Empowering states, landowners, and private partners to continue leading species management ensures we can protect wildlife without sacrificing economic growth, energy production, or the livelihoods of hardworking Americans. Striking this balance is critical to maintaining our environmental stewardship and America’s energy dominance. With the right approach, we can achieve lasting conservation results without burdening the very communities that have been instrumental in protecting these species… The Trump Administration can correct these misguided policies by directing FWS to delist both the Lesser Prairie Chicken and the Dunes Sagebrush Lizard. Doing so will restore balance to our conservation efforts—allowing local stakeholders to continue their successful work while safeguarding American energy production, protecting jobs, and supporting rural economies,” 

    In addition, the Representatives reintroduced the Limiting Incredulous Zealots Against Restricting Drilling (LIZARD) Act to strike the Biden Administration’s designation of the Dunes Sagebrush Lizard as endangered under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). This listing directly threatens the production of oil, natural gas, wind, and solar energy developed in the Permian Basin and across America.

    “Former President Biden spent four years fulfilling his promise to kill the fossil fuel industry one horrible policy at a time – including listing the Dunes Sagebrush Lizard under the Endangered Species Act, a direct attack on our hardworking men and women in the energy sector,” said Rep. Pfluger. “This listing, along with many others, was completely misguided and repudiates significant private conservation efforts in West Texas. I am proud to lead the charge alongside my good friend and colleague Rep. Tracey Mann to continue undoing the Biden Administration’s nonsensical policies and protect American energy production and jobs.”

    “From day one, President Biden used every tool in his toolbox to trample on the livelihoods of America’s energy and agricultural producers,” said Rep. Mann. “His administration continuously ignored the facts on the ground and decided federal bureaucrats were better equipped to manage these populations than local citizens. Our bill restores power back to the local communities most impacted by these decisions and removes the regulatory handcuffs put on them by the Biden Administration. We look forward to working with President Trump and Secretary Burgum to reverse these ill-informed listings and unleash the American energy dominance 77 million Americans voted for this past November.”

    Read the full text of the legislation here.

    This legislation is supported by several associations in the energy industry, including the Independent Petroleum Association of America (IPAA) and the Permian Basin Petroleum Association (PBPA).

    IPAA President & CEO Jeff Eshelman said, “IPAA has serious concerns with the final rule to list the Dunes Sagebrush Lizard. Unfortunately, the Fish and Wildlife Service continues to disregard the large amount of conservation work already done to protect the species and the successes of these programs. This listing is an affront to the oil and natural gas industry employees who live and work in the Permian Basin in both Texas and New Mexico. IPAA believes that the decision to list the DSL is unwarranted and thanks Congressman Pfluger for his efforts to stop this misguided listing decision.”

    PBPA President Ben Shepperd said, “The Permian Basin Petroleum Association strongly supports Congressman Pfluger’s reintroduction of the LIZARD Act and his continued efforts to challenge the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s unjustified listing of the dunes sagebrush lizard under the Endangered Species Act. The Service’s arbitrary decision ignores sound science and disregards the extensive, state-led conservation initiatives that have successfully protected the species—initiatives that have resulted in the enrollment of hundreds of thousands of acres and the commitment of millions of dollars in both Texas and New Mexico. Rather than imposing burdensome federal regulations, Congressman Pfluger is standing behind proven, effective conservation efforts that prioritize real results over bureaucratic red tape. PBPA members have long demonstrated their commitment to responsible stewardship of our natural resources through voluntary conservation programs, and we greatly appreciate Congressman Pfluger’s leadership in recognizing and supporting these efforts.”

    Background:

    In recent years, through state and private conservation efforts in New Mexico alone, 1,905,120 acres have been enrolled in a Candidate Conservation Agreement (CCA) and Candidate Conservation Agreement with Assurances (CCAA) by the ranching community and 2,230,066 acres have been enrolled in the CCA and CCAA by the oil and gas industry to protect the Dunes Sagebrush Lizard.

    These enrollments have resulted in a net acreage conservation gain for the species’ habitat and the associated financial contributions have helped fund dozens of reclamation and conservation programs to support the species while still allowing for the development of natural resources and human existence in the region.


    Read the full letter     here or below:

    We write to urge the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) to reverse the Lesser Prairie Chicken and the Dunes Sagebrush Lizard listings under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). These designations have imposed unnecessary regulatory burdens on our rural communities, threatening the vital work of hardworking farmers, ranchers, and energy producers while disregarding the proven success of the state and privately led conservation efforts. 

    For over a decade, voluntary public-private conservation partnerships have remarkably succeeded in stabilizing and increasing the Lesser Prairie Chicken population. In fact, since 2013, the population has more than doubled due to the dedication of local officials and companies who have implemented targeted conservation strategies. Instead of recognizing these efforts, the prior administration’s disastrous listing decision disregarded measurable progress and subjected key industries to regulatory overreach that weakened our energy independence and agricultural production. 

    Similarly, the designation of the Dunes Sagebrush Lizard as endangered threatens responsible energy development and economic prosperity in the Permian Basin, a critical region in ensuring America’s energy security. Industry leaders and conservationists have invested significant resources in habitat protection and species management programs, successfully maintaining the lizard’s habitat while allowing for responsible land use. 

    Reversing these listings would recognize the success of local conservation efforts and restore regulatory certainty for the communities and industries that depend on access to these lands. Empowering states, landowners, and private partners to continue leading species management ensures we can protect wildlife without sacrificing economic growth, energy production, or the livelihoods of hardworking Americans. Striking this balance is critical to maintaining our environmental stewardship and America’s energy dominance. With the right approach, we can achieve lasting conservation results without burdening the very communities that have been instrumental in protecting these species. 

    The Trump Administration can correct these misguided policies by directing FWS to delist both the Lesser Prairie Chicken and the Dunes Sagebrush Lizard. Doing so will restore balance to our conservation efforts—allowing local stakeholders to continue their successful work while safeguarding American energy production, protecting jobs, and supporting rural economies. 

    We appreciate your attention to this urgent matter and look forward to your prompt response. 

    Sincerely, 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed & Whitehouse Support Sen. Booker’s Record Breaking Floor Speech

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed
    VIDEO: Sen. Reed joins Sen. Booker on floor
    WASHINGTON, DC — For over 25 hours, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) stood on the Senate floor and delivered a marathon speech to protest the national cost-of-living and constitutional crisis caused by President Donald Trump and special government agent Elon Musk, including massive job cuts and sweeping tariffs.
    “Unnecessary hardships are being borne by Americans of all backgrounds, and institutions which are special in America, which are precious, which are unique in our country, are being recklessly — and I would say even unconstitutionally — affected, attacked and even shattered,” said Booker during the record-breaking speech, which began at 7 p.m. on Monday evening and continued through the night into Tuesday evening.  
    According to Senate rules, Booker has had to remain standing on the Senate floor and could not sit at his desk or pause for a bathroom break during his entire speech or else he would lose control of the Senate floor. 
    At one point during the speech Senator Booker held up a copy of the Constitution, stating: “Twelve hours now I’m standing, and I’m still going strong because this president is wrong, and he’s violating principles that we hold dear and principles in this document that are so clear and plain.”
    During the marathon speech, U.S. Senators were able to go to the floor to briefly ask questions while Booker retained control of the floor and had a chance to rest his voice.
    On Tuesday afternoon, U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) joined Booker to ask about LIHEAP cuts, indiscriminate mass-firings of federal employees, and the gutting of agencies that provide critical support for American families and protect workers’ rights; as well as the degradation of democracy.  The Senators criticized the Trump Administration and discussed the negative impacts President Donald Trump’s policies have had so far, including the economic drag President Trump has created.
    “Our economy should be doing better right now, but President Trump’s erratic policies are creating an economic drag.  Instead of helping to lower prices for everyday Americans, he is raising them.  And he’s creating real economic hardships for families, communities, and states.  We have the opportunity, tools, and conditions to build a stronger economy that works for all Americans, but instead President Trump is leading our country in the wrong direction.  I applaud Senator Booker for using this opportunity to draw attention to the changes that are needed and I am proud to support these efforts,” said Senator Reed.
    Senator Whitehouse said: “Senator Booker has always been a relentless fighter in the pursuit of justice.  With heroic stamina, he has called the nation’s attention to the looters and polluters who President Trump is allowing to ravage our democracy at the expense of working people.”
    Prior to Senator Booker’s record-breaking speech today, the previous record for the longest Senate filibuster was held by Senator Strom Thurmond of South Carolina who spoke for 24 hours and 18 minutes in opposition to the Civil Rights Act of 1957.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Grassley Talks Tariffs and Universal Injunctions on Fox News

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    WASHINGTON – Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) today joined America Reports on Fox News to discuss his Judicial Relief Clarification Act and reciprocal tariffs.
    Video and excerpts of Grassley’s remarks follow.
    [embedded content]
    VIDEO
    On Universal Injunctions:
    “[My bill] would limit the injunction that a judge could do to his district and to the parties before the court, as opposed to a national injunction that would apply it to the other 92 districts around the United States. This would keep judges from being policy makers… Our legislation would also go on to another step, if it’s necessary, to speed up the process of appeals.”
    On Tariffs:
    “We have a political leader that was elected by a big margin, both electoral and popular. He’s carrying out a promise he made in the election to bring manufacturing to the United States, and increasing tariffs is part of it.
    “I hope the end result of the tariffs is, that by putting on reciprocal tariffs, it brings other countries to bring their tariffs down. I think if we had less tariffs throughout the world, we’d have a stronger – not only U.S. economy, but we’d have a stronger world economy.”
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Relief Still Available to Idaho Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits hit by April Storms

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Idaho of the May 2, 2025, deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by severe storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides occurring April 14–15, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers Idaho County.

    Under this declaration, the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs that suffered financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster, which is crucial for their recovery,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms, based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online, visit SBA.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    Submit completed loan applications to the SBA no later than May 2.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: XploraDEX Is Quietly Becoming the Biggest DeFi Opportunity on The XRP Blockchain — Join $XPL Presale

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ZURICH, Switzerland, April 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — XRP Ledger, an ecosystem long admired for its speed, scalability, and utility, one glaring gap has remained: a truly intelligent, AI-enhanced decentralized exchange. That’s exactly what XploraDEX is delivering and it’s gaining traction fast.

    Now live with its $XPL Token Presale, XploraDEX is positioning itself as the premier DeFi opportunity on the XRP Ledger, bringing next-level trading automation, deep market analytics, and AI-powered execution to a chain that’s ready to scale.

    A New Kind of DEX for a New Kind of Trader

    Unlike traditional DEXs that simply offer token swaps, XploraDEX is built for the future of finance. Traders on XploraDEX gain access to:

    • AI-Driven Trade Execution: Eliminate emotional trading with machine-learning algorithms that trigger high-probability buy/sell decisions in real time.
    • Predictive Insights: Built-in AI dashboards give users market outlooks, trend alerts, and asset-level risk scoring.
    • Intelligent Liquidity Optimization: XploraDEX automatically routes trades for best pricing and minimal slippage—all at XRPL speeds.
    • Portfolio Smart Tools: AI helps rebalance portfolios, alert users to volatility shifts, and suggest yield-maximizing strategies.

    This isn’t just a better DEX. It’s a smarter way to trade, powered by the intelligence of artificial intelligence.

    PARTICIPATE IN $XPL PRESALE

    Why $XPL Matters: Utility, Access & Ownership

    The $XPL token is the fuel behind the engine a multi-utility asset designed to reward users, decentralize governance, and unlock premium features:

    • Access to AI-powered trading tools
    • Trading fee discounts and platform incentives
    • Staking with boosted rewards and early liquidity farming access
    • Governance rights to shape the future of XploraDEX

    $XPL Presale Buzz: Quiet Beginnings, Big Momentum

    While XploraDEX launched quietly, the momentum has been anything but slow:

            • unique wallets connected within the presale phase

            • XRP whales have begun acquiring strategic $XPL allocations

            • Crypto Twitter and Telegram are lighting up with organic chatter and bullish sentiment

    Built on the Right Chain at the Right Time

    XRPL is fast, cheap, and sustainable. But what it’s lacked is a truly user-first, AI-powered DEX. XploraDEX changes that—giving XRP holders and DeFi users a native, scalable platform.

    The $XPL Presale Is Live, Participate Now: https://sale.xploradex.io

    If you’re looking for an edge in 2025’s evolving crypto market, look no further. XploraDEX is building the infrastructure of intelligent trading on one of the most underutilized chains in DeFi.

    Stay connected and Join the XploraDEX AI Revolution

    Website | $XPL Token Presale | X | Telegram

    Contact:
    Oliver Muller
    oliver@xploradex.io
    contact@xploradex.io

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by the XploraDEX. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.

    Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.

    Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b4083d56-2c83-43b7-9e26-fcf7043775ba

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Industry Support Grows Ahead of Vote on Kaine, Klobuchar & Warner’s Bill to Undo Trump’s Canada Tariffs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Following an endorsement from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Mark R. Warner (D-VA) issued the following statement welcoming broad support for their bipartisan legislation to undo President Trump’s tariffs on Canadian goods, which amount to a 25 percent tax on goods imported from one of America’s top trading partners and closest allies. The legislation will be voted on today.

    “We welcome the strong support we continue to receive from both organized labor and businesses, including from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, for our legislation to undo Trump’s new sales tax on Canadian goods,” said the senators. “The outpouring of endorsements for our effort highlights that these new taxes are bad for America’s businesses that need stability to thrive and for hardworking families who want prices to go down, not up. We are giving every Senator an opportunity today to put their constituents’ pocketbooks first by challenging a nonsensical trade war with one of America’s closest trading partners and allies.”

    “Tariffs are taxes—paid by Americans—and they will quickly increase prices at a time when many are struggling with the cost of living. These import taxes are also harming U.S. manufactures and drawing retaliatory duties, worsening their impact on our economy… It is appropriate for Congress to exercise its authority under IEEPA and pass SJ Res 37, which would terminate the national emergency and the imposition of tariffs under Executive Order 14193,” wrote Neil L. Bradley, U.S. Chamber of Commerce Executive Vice President, Chief Policy Officer, and Head of Strategic Advocacy, in the Chamber’s endorsement letter, which is available here.

    In addition to the Chamber, the senators’ bill is supported by the AFL-CIO, the United Steelworkers (USW), the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE), National Retail Federation (NRF), the North America’s Building Trades Unions, the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA), the U.S. Conference of Mayors, Foreign Policy for America (FP4A), the National Taxpayers Union, the Taxpayers Protection Alliance, and Advancing American Freedom. Here’s what they’re saying:

    North America’s Building Trades Unions President Sean McGarvey: “The United States and Canada share far more than just a border—we share a deep, enduring economic and workforce partnership that has strengthened both our nations for generations… That partnership is enshrined in the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), a comprehensive trade agreement that President Trump himself negotiated and enacted that already governs our economic relations in this hemisphere… By circumventing this agreement and imposing unilateral tariffs on Canada, the Administration is harmfully undermining a key foreign ally while also carelessly shooting holes in the credibility of its own signature economic policy.”

    The Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA) Executive Director for Legislative and Political Affairs Stanley E. Kolbe, Jr.: “On behalf of our membership, SMACNA would like to voice its strong support for S.J. Res. 37… Tariff penalties aimed at Canada for non-trade objectives have already caused harsh and unnecessary economic pain for US workers and harm to our nation’s construction and related metal fabricating as well as HVAC equipment manufacturing businesses. In fact, it will punish businesses, labor and economies on both sides of the border, and in direct contravention of the provisions featured in the existing USMCA.”

    The National Retail Federation (NRF) Executive Vice President for Government Relations David French: “While we strongly agree with the need to secure our borders, we do not believe using trade tools such as tariffs for non-trade purposes is the right approach to achieve this goal, especially without closest trading partner… U.S. retailers depend on Canada for a wide range of consumer goods under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which Congress overwhelmingly approved. Canada represents a significant market for U.S. retailers that not only have operations in Canada but also rely on a robust cross-border consumer market, with Canadian consumers hopping in U.S. retail stores on a daily basis. These operations are all now being significantly disrupted because of the tariffs applied to Canada under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and Canada’s retaliation against those tariffs.”

    The U.S. Conference of Mayors CEO and Executive Director Tom Cochran: “…We write to express our strong support for S.J. Res. 37, the joint resolution to terminate the national emergency declared on February 1, 2025, that launched a trade war with Canada and thus to terminate the tariffs on Canadian imports implemented as part of that unfounded emergency… This declaration has triggered a damaging and unnecessary trade conflict with Canada—our closest ally, largest trading partner, and critical collaborator in addressing economic and public safety challenges across North America… These actions are raising prices for consumers, disrupting key industries such as construction and manufacturing, and threatening jobs in communities large and small. They also risk increasing already high housing costs, as tariffs on Canadian lumber, steel, aluminum, and other critical building materials will make housing construction and infrastructure development significantly more expensive.”

    AFL-CIO Director of Government Affairs Jody Calemine: “On behalf of the AFL-CIO, I urge you to support S.J. Res. 37, a resolution introduced by Senator Tim Kaine to terminate the national emergency that was declared to justify tariffs on imports from Canada under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA)… However, imposing large, across the board tariffs on Canada aimed at non-trade objectives will only cause unnecessary economic pain for workers and businesses on both sides of the border.”

    International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) International President Brian Bryant: “On behalf of the 600,000 active and retired members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), I write today in strong support of S.J. Res. 37… These new tariffs on Canada, one of our closest allies and largest trading partners, are unjust and will have lasting negative impacts on American and Canadian workers… The Trump administration’s erratic approach to tariffs is wreaking havoc on workers and businesses in the United States and Canada. Punishing one of our nation’s closest trading partners based on a false pretense is wrong and the action needs to be reversed.”

    International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE) President Matthew S. Biggs and Secretary-Treasurer Gay Henson: “As the Executive Officers of the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE), representing 90,000 workers in the private, public, and federal sectors across North America, we are writing in support of S.J. Res. 37… Canada is America’s closest ally and number one trading partner. Our trading relationship uplifts American and Canadian working families alike. Imposing reckless tariffs on Canadian imports will harm both the U.S. and Canadian economies and do even greater harm to working families on both sides of the border. Congress must step in now to block this reckless and destructive policy.”

    National Taxpayers Union: “Canada is an important supplier of goods that strengthen U.S. security, including crude oil, natural gas, steel, and aluminum. Tariffs that restrict our access to these supplies and increase their cost will weaken our industrial base and undermine our ability to sustain our defense in the event of a national emergency.”

    Taxpayers Protection Alliance President David Williams: “TPA enthusiastically supports Sens. Tim Kaine and Rand Paul’s CRA to overturn President Trump’s February 1, 2025, national emergency declaration. This use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) is fraught with issues. The ensuing trade war will inevitably raise costs for consumers. Placing a 25 percent tariff on goods from Canada and Mexico will harm consumers and the vast majority of American businesses.”

    United Steelworkers (USW) International President David McCall: “On behalf of the 850,000 active members of the United Steel, Paper and Forestry, Rubber, Manufacturing, Energy, Allied Industrial and Service Workers International Union (USW), I urge you to support S.J. Res. 37, a resolution introduced by Senator Tim Kaine to terminate the national emergency that was declared to impose duties on imports from Canada, under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA)… These new tariffs are misdirected, unsubstantiated by facts, and harmful to the very workers we represent.”

    Advancing American Freedom (AAF) President Tim Chapman: “Tariffs are a tax on American families and businesses. The first Trump administration cut an excellent deal with Canada with USMCA. The president should not abandon this agreement and lacks the authority to unilaterally do so.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: From the Senate Floor, Senator Collins Opposes Emergency Tariffs on Canadian Goods

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

    Click HERE to watch and HERE to download video of her full remarks

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins delivered remarks on the Senate floor in support of a resolution authored by Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) that would end the emergency declaration that President Trump signed in February to implement tariffs on Canada for not doing enough to halt the flow of illegal drugs into the United States.

    Below is the transcript of her remarks:

    “Mr. President, I rise today in support of the resolution introduced by my colleague from Virginia, Senator Kaine, to overturn the emergency declaration for the northern border that is being used to impose tariffs on goods imported from Canada.

    “Mr. President, the Maine economy is integrated with Canada, our most important trading partner. From home heating oil, gasoline, jet fuel, and other refined petroleum products, to Maine’s paper mills, forest products businesses, agricultural producers, and lobstermen, the tariffs on Canada would be detrimental to many Maine families and our local economies.

    “Mr. President, of course I share the President’s goal of stemming the tide of dangerous fentanyl that flows into the United States. I commend him for taking far stronger actions to halt this dangerous and deadly flow than did the previous administration. I do not, however, agree with his invoking the powers of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to impose tariffs on Canadian goods and products. The fact is, the vast majority of fentanyl in America comes from the southern border. In fiscal year 2024, less than 1% of fentanyl seizures occurred at our northern border, and our Canadian neighbors are working collaboratively and cooperatively with our government to stop that trafficking.

    “Mr. President, one of the best examples of the intertwined relationship between Maine’s economy and Canada can be seen at the Twin Rivers paper mill in Madawaska, Maine, way in the north, on the Canadian border. Twin Rivers produces lightweight specialty paper for packaging materials, for our nation’s newspapers and our retailers’ catalogs, for food and environmentally safe papers used in restaurants, and for a wide variety of other paper goods that are used all over the country. The raw pulp for this paper mill in Maine is piped across the St. John River, from Edmundston, New Brunswick, to Madawaska, Maine. There literally is a pipeline through which the pulp travels between these two sister mills. A tariff placed on this pulp would jeopardize the financial well-being of this vital paper mill, which employs more than 500 people in rural northern Maine. There is not another big employer in that area that could possibly compensate for the loss of those 510 direct jobs. And that doesn’t include the indirect jobs: the truck drivers, the restaurant owners who would be harmed by the closure or reduction in the operation of this vitally important mill. The tariff would not only devastate Twin Rivers, but also harm hundreds of Maine families.

    “Another example of our integration with Canada is in energy. 95% of the heating oil that is used by most Mainers to heat their homes comes from refineries in Canada. Irving Oil, a Canadian-based company, has 150 gas stations in Maine and supplies two-thirds of the state’s gas, diesel, and heating oil. This includes Mr. President, 100% of the jet fuel that is used by the Air National Guard Base in Bangor. Maine consumers, Maine businesses, and the U.S. Department of Defense, our own Department of Defense, would bear the cost of that Canadian energy tariff.

    “Mr. President, Canadian tariffs would also harm many Maine farmers, lobstermen, and fishermen. According to the Maine Potato Board, 90% of the potash, which is the fertilizer used for growing potatoes, is imported from Canada. Fertilizer accounts for 11% of total input costs to grow our great Maine potatoes. Tariffs on imports like fertilizer will only hurt Maine potato growers. And Mr. President, I grew up in Aroostook County. I know these potato growers. I picked potatoes as a school child when I was growing up.

    “Just recently, a farmer from Mars Hill, Maine, told me that just the threat of tariffs is causing a price increase on seed and equipment. This farmer supplies potatoes to a Canadian company with facilities on both sides of the border. The different facilities have specialized equipment to process potatoes for different uses, hash browns in one plant, curly fries in another. A tariff on potatoes as they cross back and forth between Maine and Canada would cause terrible harm to this and other growers

    “Other products are processed back and forth across the border as well. For example, many Maine blueberries are processed in Prince Edward Island. Maine also sends between $200 million and $400 million worth of lobster to Canada each year for processing. There are 240 lobster processing plants in Canada, but only 15 in the United States. I share the President’s goal of getting more of that manufacturing done in the State of Maine, done in the United States, but the fact is that if we impose these tariffs on Canadian processing, it’s going to be our Maine lobstermen who will bear the cost; it’s going to be consumers who bear the cost.

    “I would like to make mention of another industry that would be affected as well, and that is the aquaculture industry. In Washington County, in far-eastern Maine, Cooke Aquaculture is one of the largest employers, with more than 200 direct jobs throughout the state. While they have a processing plant in Machias, Maine, the first step of their salmon processing occurs in Canada before reentering the United States for finishing. At a time when the Maine aquaculture industry is growing, these tariffs on Canada would jeopardize current jobs and also block future ones.

    “Mr. President, close relationships between and among families on both sides of the border are very common in the State of Maine. It is typical of communities, ranging from Calais in the east, Fort Kent in the north, and Jackman in the West. You see it all across the northern, eastern, and western parts of our state, because our communities are so integrated. It is not surprising to me that I had a conversation with members of the tourism industry in Maine just this morning, who told me that they’re seeing cancelations by Canadian tourists, who have come for years to vacation in Maine. Old Orchard Beach, for example, is known for the number of Canadian tourists.

    “We don’t want to discourage these Canadian tourists who are so vital to Maine’s economy from vacationing in Maine because they are so angry at what has happened. Maine families benefit from more than $900 billion in goods and services that are exchanged between our two countries every year. It is crucial that we remain a dependable and vibrant global trading partner, particularly with Canada.

    “Now, I want to distinguish that I think there is a strong case to be made for tariffs on Mexico, on our adversary, China, but I don’t see the case for Canada. There are areas where Canada does need to do better, and the dairy industry is one. And I hope that we will see that result. And let me conclude my remarks by reaffirming my support for ensuring that the Department of Homeland Security has every tool at its disposal to stem the flow of fentanyl into our nation. But unlike Mexico and China, Canada is not complicit in this crisis, and we should continue working with our Canadian allies to secure the northern border, not unfairly penalize them. Our consumers, our manufacturers, our lobstermen, our blueberry growers, our potato farmers will pay the price.

    “Mr. President, the price hikes that will happen for Maine families, every time they go to the grocery store, they fill their gas tank, they fill their heating oil tank, if these tariffs go into effect, will be so harmful. And as price hikes always do, they will hurt those the most who can afford them the least. Therefore, I will support this resolution, and I urge my colleagues to do so likewise.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MOIL delivers best financial year performance in FY’25, surpassing all previous records

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 02 APR 2025 7:06PM by PIB Delhi

    MOIL has recorded its best-ever financial year performance in FY’25, achieving remarkable milestones across key performance indicators:

    • Record manganese ore production: 18.02 lakh tonnes, 2.7% higher y-o-y.
    • Record manganese ore sales: 15.87 lakh tonnes, registering a growth of 3.3% y-o-y.
    • Record Ferro manganese production: 12000 MT, 18% higher y-o-y.
    • Exploratory core drilling: 1,07,530 meters, marking a 22% growth over CPLY. This extensive exploration will serve as the foundation for expanding production from existing mines and the development of new manganese mines across the country.

     

    Shri Ajit Kumar Saxena, CMD, MOIL, congratulated the entire MOIL workforce for this record performance and expressed confidence of higher growth momentum in the coming year.

    *********

    TPJ/NJ

    (Release ID: 2117975) Visitor Counter : 61

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Coal Production

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 02 APR 2025 6:11PM by PIB Delhi

    The production of coal in the country during the financial years 2013-14 and 2023-24 along with the contribution of South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) is given below:

    (Figures in Million Tonnes)

    Year

    Country production

    SECL contribution

    2013-14

    565.765

    124.261

    2014-15

    609.179

    128.275

    2015-16

    639.230

    137.934

    2016-17

    657.868

    140.003

    2017-18

    675.400

    144.709

    2018-19

    728.718

    157.349

    2019-20

    730.874

    150.546

    2020-21

    716.083

    150.606

    2021-22

    778.210

    142.514

    2022-23

    893.191

    167.006

    2023-24

    997.826

    187.536

     

    The auction of commercial coal mines during the year 2020 has increased the coal production. The details of coal production is as under:

    (Figures in Million Tonnes)

    Sr No

    Coal Mine

    2021-22

    2022-23

    2023-24

    2024-25* (Till 24.03.2025)

    1

    Gare Palma- IV/1

    0.37

    6.00

    7.20

    6.82

    2

    Gare Palma- IV/7

    0.79

    1.20

    1.43

    1.68

    3&4

    Gotitoria (East & West)

    0

    0.02

    0.30

    0.25

    5

    Takli Jena Bellora

    0

    0

    0.09

    0.70

    6

    Gare Palma IV/6

    0

    0

    1.8

    3.93

    7

    Utkal C

    0

    0

    1.03

    3.36

    8 & 9

    Gare Palma IV/2 & IV/3

    0

    0

    0.71

    5.96

    10

    Rajhara (Central & Eastern)

    0

    0

    0

    0.01

    11

    Bhaskarpara

    0

    0.00

    0.00

    0.06

    Total

    1.16

    7.22

    12.56

    22.77

    *Provisional

    This information was given by Union Minister of Coal and Mines Shri G. Kishan Reddy in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    ****

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    (Release ID: 2117932) Visitor Counter : 44

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Make in India and the Capital Goods Revolution

    Source: Government of India

    Make in India and the Capital Goods Revolution

    Catalyzing Domestic Production and Technological Innovation

    Posted On: 02 APR 2025 6:52PM by PIB Delhi

    Introduction

    According to the Ministry of Heavy Industries, heavy engineering and machine tools sector comprises of capital goods industry. India’s capital goods sector is experiencing significant attention due to its critical role in driving industrial growth and economic development. This sector encompasses industries such as electrical equipment, machinery, and construction, which are essential for the country’s infrastructure development. According to the Indian Electrical and Electronics Manufacturers’ Association (IEEMA), the electrical equipment industry witnessed consistent double-digit growth in power equipment, particularly transmission equipment and transformers, driven by domestic demand and international market expansion.

    India is the third-largest market for construction equipment. Government initiatives have been instrumental in bolstering the capital goods sector. The Ministry of Heavy Industries has launched several policies to boost domestic production and reduce reliance on imports. These initiatives are part of the broader Make in India campaign (launched in 2014), which seeks to increase the manufacturing sector’s contribution to GDP, generate employment, and improve technological capabilities. The capital goods sector is crucial to India’s economic strategy, supporting large-scale manufacturing and infrastructure projects. With rapid urbanization, extensive infrastructure development, and strong government support, the sector is poised to drive sustainable industrial growth and elevate India’s position in the global market.

     

    Overview of the Heavy Industries and Engineering Sector

    As per the present estimates, the Capital Goods industry contributes about 1.9% of GDP.  The Heavy Engineering and Machine Tool sector (capital goods industry) consists of the following major sub-sectors: Dies, Moulds and Press Tools; Plastic Machinery; Earthmoving and Mining Machinery; Metallurgical Machinery; Textile Machinery; Process Plant Equipment; Printing Machinery; and Food Processing Machinery. Due to catalytic effect of Ministry of Heavy Industries intervention, the production of capital goods sector has increased from Rs 2,29,533 crore in 2014-15 to Rs.4,29,001 crore in 2023-24. Production (in crores) by the sub-sectors of capital goods industry since 2019-20 are presented in the table below:

     

    Exports (in crores) by the sub-sectors of capital goods industry since 2019-20 are presented in the table below:

     

     

    The policy environment for the capital goods sector includes:

    • No industrial license is required for the sector.
    • FDI up to 100% permitted on automatic route (through RBI) except from the countries having land borders with India.
    • Quantum of payment for technology transfer, design and drawing, royalty, etc. to the foreign collaborator is not restricted.
    • There is no restriction on imports and exports.

    The Union Budget 2025-26 proposes to add 35 additional capital goods for EV battery manufacturing, and 28 additional capital goods for mobile phone battery manufacturing to the list of exempted capital goods. This will boost domestic manufacture of lithium-ion battery, both for mobile phones and electric vehicles.

     

    National Capital Goods Policy (2016)

    The National Capital Goods Policy, formulated by the Ministry of Heavy Industries & Public Enterprises, is a comprehensive framework aims at boosting the capital goods sector in India. policy envisions increasing the sector’s contribution to manufacturing activity from 12% (2016) to 20% by 2025. It seeks to make India one of the top capital goods producing nations, aiming to more than double production and increase exports to at least 40% of the total production. Furthermore, the policy aims to enhance the technology depth within the sector, moving from basic and intermediate levels to advanced levels.

    The major salient features of the policy are:

    1. To increase budgetary allocation and scope of the Scheme on Enhancement of Competitiveness in the Capital Goods Sector adding components i.e. skills, capacity building, advanced manufacturing and cluster development.
    2. To launch a Technology Development Fund under PPP model to fund technology acquisition/ transfer, purchase of IPRs/ designs and drawings/ commercialization.
    3. To set up regional State-of-the-Art Greenfield Centre of Excellence for skill development.
    4. To modernize existing CG manufacturing units, especially SMEs by replacing with the modern, computer controlled and energy efficient machineries across capital goods sub-sectors.
    5. To upgrade/ develop, testing and certification infrastructure.

     

    The National Capital Goods Policy, 2016, inter alia, recommended increasing the budgetary allocation and scope of the Scheme on Enhancement of Competitiveness of Capital Goods which included setting up of Centers of Excellence, Common Engineering Facility Centers, Integrated Industrial Infrastructure Park and Technology Acquisition Fund Programme. These recommendations were incorporated in the Phase II of the scheme.

     

    Scheme for Enhancement of Competitiveness in the Indian Capital Goods Sector Phase I

    In order to address the skill gaps, infrastructure development and technology needs for the capital goods sector, Phase I of the capital goods scheme was rolled out in November 2014 which had the total outlay of Rs 995.96 crores. Phase I of the scheme fostered partnerships between academia and industry for engendering technology development with government support. The outcome of the Scheme has proved the efficacy of the strategies deployed for technology and industrial infrastructure development.

     

    • Centre of Excellence (CoE): 8 CoEs have been established wherein 30 niche indigenous technologies have been successfully developed in the fields of machine tools, additive manufacturing, textile machinery, welding robots and alloys design, earth moving machinery, and sensor technologies at national research institutes of eminence such as Indian Institute of Technology (IITs), Indian Institute of Sciences (IISc), Central Manufacturing Technology Institute (CMTI) etc.
    • Common Engineering Facility Centres (CEFC) – 15 CEFCs including four Industry 4.0 SAMARTH centres and six Web-Based Technology Innovation Platforms (TIPs) have been setup. Industry 4.0 SAMARTH centres are at Indian Institute of Sciences at Bengaluru, Centre for Industry 4.0 (C4i4) lab at Pune, Central Manufacturing Technology Institute (CMTI) at Bengaluru and Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi.
    • The six web-based open manufacturing technology innovation platforms are helping in bringing all India’s technical resources and the concerned Industry on to one platform to kick start and facilitate identification of technology problems faced by Indian Industry and crowd source solutions for the same in a systematic manner so as to facilitate start-ups and angel funding of India innovations.
    • Over 76,000 students, experts, institutes, industries and labs have already registered on these platforms so far.
    • Technology Acquisition Fund Programme (TAFP) – Following 5 technologies have been acquired from abroad under TAFP:
    1. Development & Commercialization of Titanium Casting with Ceramic Shelling Technology;
    2. Manufacturing of Heavy-Duty High Reliability Electrical Specialized Power Cables;
    3. Development of Turn Mill Centre;
    4. Development of Four Guideway CNC Lathe;
    5. Cutting Edge Robotic Laser Cladding Technology.

     

    • Integrated Machine Tools Park, Tumakuru: An exclusive industrial park for machine tool industry has been developed across 530 acres at Tumkuru, Karnataka. So far, out of 336 acres of allottable land, 145 acres of land has been allotted to the machine tool manufacturers.

     

    Under Phase- I of the Scheme for Enhancement of Competitiveness in the Indian Capital Goods Sector, 33 projects with budgetary support of Rs. 583.312 crore were sanctioned. After launching of the Capital Goods Scheme Phase II, The Phase I of the Capital Goods Scheme has been merged with Phase II of the Scheme.

     

    Scheme for Enhancement of Competitiveness in the Indian Capital Goods Sector Phase II

    Ministry of Heavy Industries notified the Phase 2 of the Scheme on January 25, 2022, with an objective to expand and enlarge the impact created by Phase I of the capital goods scheme, thereby providing greater impetus through creation of a strong and globally competitive capital goods sector. The scheme has a financial outlay of Rs. 1207 crores with budgetary support of Rs. 975 crore and industry contribution of Rs. 232 crores. Under the Phase II, a total of 33 projects with project cost of Rs 1366.94 crores (due to higher contribution by Industry) and government contribution of Rs 963.19 crore have been sanctioned by August 2024. There are six components under the Phase II and the details of the projects sanctioned so far are:

     

    • Setting up of New Advanced Centres of Excellence and augmentation of Existing Centres of Excellence: To expedite R&D by utilizing academia of repute and private industry which is involved in research and development activities. A total of 9 projects with the budget of Rs. 478.87 have been sanctioned so far.
    • Setting up of Common Engineering Facility Centres (CEFCs) and augmentation of existing CEFCs: For creating demonstration & training, consultancy, hand holding and R & D services and awareness programmes to industrial units. A total of 5 projects with the budget of Rs. 357.07 have been sanctioned so far.
    • Promotion of skilling in Capital Goods Sector: Creation of Qualification packages for skill levels 6 and above- in association with Skill Councils for skills level 6 and above. A total of 3 projects with the budget of Rs. 7.59 have been sanctioned so far.
    • Augmentation of Existing Testing and Certification Centres: To address the needs of Capital Goods Sector & Auto sector for testing of machinery in terms of various properties relating to mechanical, electrical, chemical, structural, metallurgical, electronics aspects etc. A total of 7 projects with the budget of Rs. 195.99 have been sanctioned so far.
    • Setting up of Industry Accelerators for Technology Development: Aimed at development of targeted indigenous technologies, scaled to meet the requirements of selected industry segment, which till now has been dependent on imports. Selected Academic Institute/ Industry Body will act as an Accelerator for fostering the development of such technologies. A total of 8 projects with the budget of Rs. 325.32 have been sanctioned so far.
    • Identification of Technologies through Technology Innovation Portals: Six Web-based open manufacturing technology innovation platforms have been developed under CG Scheme Phase-I. These are being supported under CG Scheme Phase-II.

     

    The details of the funds allocated and its utilization under the Scheme for Enhancement of Competitiveness in the Indian Capital Goods Sector Phase- I and II is as given in the table below:

     

     

    Recent Achievements of the Capital Goods Scheme

     

    1. Sitarc, Coimbatore has indigenously developed a 6-inch BLDC submersible pump with a motor efficiency of 88% and a pump efficiency of 78% under the Capital Goods Scheme. This initiative promotes “Aatmanirbharta” by reducing the import of such pumps by 80%. This innovation was recognized as the best product in the pumps category by United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO).
    2. CMTI has developed a high-speed rapier loom machine capable of weaving yarns upto 450 RPM. This machine was launched at ITMA 2023 in Milan, Italy.
    3. Under the SAMARTH centre at CMTI, Industrial Internet of Things (IIOT) technology has been implemented in Toyota Engine Manufacturing line controlling 64 machines for preventive maintenance.
    4. A testing facilities for battery and Battery Management System (BMS) has been established at ARAI, Pune for the first time in India under the aegis of Ministry of Heavy Industries.
    5. 6 Smart Technologies, 5 Smart Tools, 14 solutions have been developed in digital twin, virtual reality, robotics, inspection, sustainability, additive manufacturing etc. by I-4.0 India @ IISc, Bengaluru;
    6. Under Industry Accelerator at ARAI-Advanced Mobility Transformation & Innovation Foundation (AMTIF) a high-voltage motor controller developed, which enabled the industry partner Raptee Energy Private Limited to launch a high-voltage motorcycle with electric car DNA.
    7. Under Industry Accelerator at ARAI-Advanced Mobility Transformation & Innovation Foundation (AMTIF) thermally stable sodium-ion batteries developed.

     

    Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL)

    BHEL is a major contributor towards engineering and manufacturing capacity building for the Country. The company is carrying out following initiatives with support from Ministry of Heavy industries under the Capital Goods Scheme Phase II:

    • BHEL has established a “Common Engineering Facility Centre (CEFC)” for skill development in Welding Technology at WRI Trichy along with its extension centers at Varanasi, Ranipet, Bhopal, Jhansi and Haridwar units of BHEL.

    •  BHEL is establishing a testing facility comprising both Hardware in the Loop (HIL) and Software in the Loop (SIL) functionalities in the area of Industrial, Naval and Aircraft related processes at its Corporate R&D Unit at Hyderabad with support from Ministry of Heavy Industries.

     

    Conclusion

    The ‘Make in India’ initiative has had a transformative impact on the heavy industries and engineering sector. By fostering technological advancements, increasing domestic production, enhancing competitiveness, and generating employment, the initiative has played a pivotal role in strengthening India’s industrial base. With sustained policy support and continued investment, the sector is poised for further growth in the coming years.

     

    References

    https://www.investindia.gov.in/sector/capital-goods

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2098364

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2085938

    https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2042179

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2039020

    https://www.indiabudget.gov.in/economicsurvey/doc/echapter.pdf

    https://heavyindustries.gov.in/heavy-engineering-and-machine-tool

    https://x.com/investindia/status/1302798627337723904?lang=ar-x-fm

    https://heavyindustries.gov.in/sites/default/files/2023-07/Capital-Goods-Policy-Final.pdf

    https://sansad.in/getFile/loksabhaquestions/annex/184/AU1227_CBVr5x.pdf?source=pqals

    https://sansad.in/getFile/loksabhaquestions/annex/182/AU1375_e9YzYN.pdf?source=pqals

    https://heavyindustries.gov.in/scheme-enhancement-competitiveness-indian-capital-goods-sector-phase-i

    https://heavyindustries.gov.in/scheme-enhancement-competitiveness-indian-capital-goods-sector-phase-ii

    https://heavyindustries.gov.in/sites/default/files/2025-02/heavy_annual_report_2024-25_final_27.02.2025_compressed.pdf

    Make in India and the Capital Goods Revolution

    ****

    Make in India (CG) | Explainer | 07

    Santosh Kumar | Sheetal Angral | Rishita Aggarwal

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Till Feb 2025, Indian Railways Installs 209 MW Solar Plants at 2,249 Stations and Service Buildings

    Source: Government of India

    Till Feb 2025, Indian Railways Installs 209 MW Solar Plants at 2,249 Stations and Service Buildings

    Indian Railways Solar Power Expansion Reaches 2249 Installations Units with 1489 Added in the Last Five Years, 2.3 Times More Than 628 in the Previous Five Years

    Rajasthan Leads in Solar Power Expansion with the Highest 275 Installations Units Among All States and UTs

    Posted On: 02 APR 2025 7:45PM by PIB Delhi

    Indian Railways is making all endeavors to promote solar energy in line with the Government policies to proliferate renewable energy, environmental sustainability and to achieve long-term financial savings. The transition to renewable energy is an ongoing process.

    Indian Railways has planned to progressively procure renewable energy through different power procurement modes for Round The Clock (RTC) power, which is hybrid solution for renewable power includes solar and wind etc. Most of the work of setting up of solar plants is undertaken by Railways through Power Purchase Agreement under developer mode.

    During implementation of solar energy, many challenges like regulatory constraints, power evacuation and connectivity issues were faced by the railways. To tackle these issues, State Governments and Transmission Utilities were pursued on regular basis.

    So far, about 209 MW of solar plants on 2249 Railway stations and service buildings across the country have been provided. State-wise and year-wise details are as under:

     

    S.No.

    State

    Railway Stations Provided with Solar Plants (in Nos.)

     2014-15 to 2019-20

    2020-21 to February, 2025

    Cumulative
    upto February, 2025

    1

    Rajasthan

    73

    200

    275

    2

    Maharashtra

    43

    213

    270

    3

    West Bengal

    12

    222

    237

    4

    Uttar Pradesh

    78

    93

    204

    5

    Andhra Pradesh

    33

    126

    198

    6

    Karnataka

    86

    60

    146

    7

    Madhya Pradesh

    49

    74

    134

    8

    Odisha

    30

    103

    133

    9

    Gujarat

    11

    96

    112

    10

    Telangana

    35

    60

    95

    11

    Bihar

    25

    42

    81

    12

    Assam

    27

    48

    78

    13

    Tamil Nadu

    42

    31

    73

    14

    Jharkhand

    10

    35

    47

    15

    Haryana

    9

    23

    36

    16

    Punjab

    19

    11

    30

    17

    Uttarakhand

    1

    17

    18

    18

    Himanchal Pradesh

    1

    16

    17

    19

    Tripura

    15

    1

    16

    20

    Chhattisgarh

    10

    5

    16

    21

    Kerala

    12

    1

    13

    22

    Delhi

    4

    3

    8

    23

    J & K

    2

    4

    6

    24

    Nagaland

    0

    2

    2

    25

    Meghalaya

    0

    1

    1

    26

    Manipur

    0

    1

    1

    27

    Chandigarh

    0

    1

    1

    28

    Puducherry

    1

    0

    1

     

    Total

    628

    1489

    2249

     

    This information was given by the Union Minister of Railways, Information & Broadcasting and Electronics & Information Technology Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    *****

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Florida couple pleads guilty to their roles in a scheme to provide and receive prohibited labor payments

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Florida couple pled guilty today to conspiracy to provide and receive prohibited labor payments, in violation of the Labor Management Relations Act, also known as the Taft-Hartley Act.

    According to court documents, since at least 2010 until November 2023, Ricky Dallas O’Quinn, 63, of Melbourne, Florida, served as both an officer and employee of International Union, Security, Police and Fire Professionals of America (SPFPA), a labor organization that represents protective security officers at federal workplaces. SPFPA executed collective bargaining agreements with several employers covering the security industry in several states. Ricky’s wife, Mabel O’Quinn, was the founder, incorporator, and an initial director of Company-2, which provided protective security officers at federal workplaces in numerous states. While Mabel served as Company-2’s chief executive officer and president, Ricky was involved in the finance, budget, and operations of the company since its inception in a clandestine role. Both Ricky and Mabel O’Quinn hid Ricky’s involvement in operating Company-2.

    From at least 2010 to 2023, Individual-1 was the president of Company-1, which provides protective security officers at federal workplaces in numerous states. The O’Quinns conspired with Individual-1 to obtain government contracts by exploiting Company-2’s status as a small, woman service-disabled owned business.

    Company-1 used Company-2 as a subcontractor and advised Company-2 on what contracts to bid on and in which geographic locations, which produced financial benefits for both companies. In exchange, Individual-1 and his family would receive 40 percent of the ownership and/or profits of Company-2.

    From at least April 2013 through June 2024, Individual-1 agreed to award subcontracts from Company-1 to supply private security guards at various federal installations to Company-2.  The proceeds from those awards totaled tens of millions of dollars.

    Individual-1 specified which vendors and consultants Company-2 would hire and monitored and directed Company-2’s finances. At Individual-1’s direction, Company-2 paid three of Individual-1’s relatives as consultants at rates of $195 and $225 per hour, totaling millions of dollars in payments.

    Ricky and Mabel O’Quinn are scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 17, 2025, and face up to five years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Matthew R. Galeotti, head of Justice Department’s Criminal Division; and Troy W. Springer, Special Agent in Charge, National Capital Region, U.S. Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General, made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Rossie D. Alston Jr. accepted the pleas.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kathleen Robeson and Drew Bradylyons for the Eastern District of Virginia and Trial Attorney Vincent Falvo Jr. for the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section are prosecuting the cases.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 1:25-cr-70 (Ricky) and 1:25-cr-71 (Mabel).

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Local man & woman plead guilty to drug, money laundering crimes

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    COLUMBUS, Ohio – A local man and woman pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court here today to drug and money laundering crimes related to assisting two Chillicothe brothers traffic drugs from Mexico and Arizona. 

    Todd Michael Fulkerson, 42, of Columbus, admitted to conspiring to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine.

    In February 2024, Fulkerson traveled to Arizona at the request of Caleb Barillaro, 30, who was acquiring kilogram quantities of the drugs to resell through street-level drug dealers in Chillicothe and the surrounding areas. The men drove separate vehicles to Arizona, and Fulkerson accompanied Caleb on the trip to provide security. Fulkerson was recruited for this role based on his military experience.

    In Arizona, Caleb purchased two kilograms of fentanyl and five kilograms of cocaine for $94,000 in cash. Caleb put the drugs in a cooler and placed ice on top of the drugs to conceal them before putting the cooler in Fulkerson’s car.

    Law enforcement surveilled the two vehicles traveling in tandem back towards Ohio from Arizona.

    The two stopped at a gas station near the Indiana and Ohio border. Caleb discovered that the melting ice in the cooler had ruined some of the kilograms of drugs. He became upset and took the cooler to his car. Caleb feared he was being surveilled by law enforcement as he traveled from the gas station, and he discarded the drugs along the side of the road.

    Fulkerson faces up to 20 years in prison for his role in transporting the drugs.

    Lazae Lett, 24, of Chillicothe, admitted to laundering drug proceeds to Sinaloa, Mexico, to help Dillon Barillaro, 31, obtain more drugs through a source of supply there. She sent several approximately $2,000 money orders via Western Union money orders from Walmart and two Kroger locations in Chillicothe. 

    Dillon Barillaro provided the illicit money to Lett and instructed her on recipient names and payment amounts. Dillon Barillaro drove Lett to the Walmart and Kroger locations to conduct financial transactions in immediate succession.

    Lett faces up to 20 years in prison.

    The Barillaro brothers have each pleaded guilty to federal narcotics crimes punishable by at least 10 years and up to life in prison and await sentencing.

    Congress sets minimum and maximum statutory sentences. Sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the Court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors at future hearings.

    Kelly A. Norris, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; Andrew Lawton, Acting Special Agent in Charge, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Detroit Field Office; Elena Iatarola, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Cincinnati Division; and Chillicothe Police Chief Ron Meyers announced the guilty pleas offered today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Norah McCann King. Assistant United States Attorneys Nicole Pakiz and Damoun Delaviz are representing the United States in the related cases.

    These investigations were originally designated as part of Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs). The cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Boozman, Cotton Work to Repeal Tax on Certain Firearm Purchases

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman

    WASHINGTON––U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Tom Cotton (R-AR) introduced the Repealing Illegal Freedom and Liberty Excises (RIFLE) Act, legislation that would remove a burdensome tax imposed on firearms regulated under the National Firearms Act.

    “Arkansas’s hunters and shooting sportsmen and women who exercise their Second Amendment rights responsibly deserve access to firearms and accessories without jumping through bureaucratic hoops. I am proud to join Sen. Cotton and our colleagues to take this outdated and burdensome hurdle off the books for the benefit of law-abiding citizens across our country,” Boozman said. 

    “Law-abiding Americans who exercise their Second Amendment rights should not be subject to unnecessary taxes and restrictions preventing them from doing so. Passed into law in 1934, the National Firearms Act needs to be amended. Our legislation will remove the red tape that places an undue financial burden on would-be gun owners,” said Cotton.

    Senators Ted Budd (R-NC), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Steve Daines (R-MT), Deb Fischer (R-NE), John Hoeven (R-ND), Jim Justice (R-WV), Bernie Moreno (R-OH), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Rick Scott (R-FL) and Tim Sheehy (R-MT) also cosponsored the legislation.

    Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (R-IA-02).

    Background:

    • The 1934 National Firearms Act (NFA) regulates short-barreled shotguns and rifles, automatic firearms and suppressors. In addition to background checks and registration, NFA-regulated items have a $200 tax.
    • The $200 tax, unchanged since 1934, is equivalent to $4,741 in today’s dollars. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives has acknowledged the tax was intended “to curtail, if not prohibit, transactions” of firearms.
    • From 2018 to 2023, ownership of NFA regulated items has grown by more than 230 percent as more sportsmen, shooters and firearm enthusiasts exercise their Second Amendment right.
    • The RIFLE Act does not modify the current checks and registration; it solely removes the federally mandated financial burden on law-abiding gun owners.

    The legislation is endorsed by the National Rifle Association and the National Shooting Sports Foundation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Community Learning Development career pathway opportunities

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    The Highland Council Adult and Youth Service has recently received CLD Standards Council developmental approval for 3 in house SCQF Level 6 qualifications.

    What is Community Learning Development (CLD) – CLD is the field of professional practice in Scotland which includes youth work, community based adult learning, family learning and community development. CLD practice enables people of all ages to identify their own individual and collective goals, to engage in learning and take action to bring about change for themselves and their communities. CLD is a key element of the education sector in Scotland.

    Education Committee Chair, Cllr John Finlayson said: “The Highland Council is delighted to be the first local authority in Scotland to receive CLD Standard Council developmental learning opportunities approval at SCQF level 6.

    “Retention, development and expanding our local skilled ‘Workforce for the Future’ portfolio aligns with the Council’s ‘Our Future Highland Delivery Plan’, to enable growth in our own workforce and to help retain a skilled workforce across Highland as a key driver to developing the Highland economy and reducing depopulation.

    “Through learning, our career development pathway efforts across Highland will contribute to empowering people, individually and collectively, to make positive changes in their lives and in their communities and we look forward to delivering the Community Learning and Development SCQF level 6 courses in the near future.”

    What does this mean for CLD career pathways in Highland?

    The CLD Standards Council endorsement of the 3 qualifications, offers an opportunity for people to begin a career in Community Learning & Development (CLD), to develop and grow our own workforce across Highland, opening a pathway towards a professional CLD qualification. It is hoped that this opportunity builds on and strengthens the work of CLD in Highland and the essential role that CLD practitioners contribute across our Highland communities.

    The three courses available are as follows:

    • National Progression Award (NPD) Theory and approaches to Youth Work (SCQF Level 6) 
    • Professional Development Award (PDA) Introduction to Tutoring ESOL (SCQF Level 6) 
    • Professional Development Award (PDA) Adult Learning in Scotland: An Introduction (SCQF Level 6)

    2 Apr 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –