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Category: Education

  • MIL-OSI USA: WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: Secretary Wright Poised to Unleash American Energy Dominance

    Source: US Department of Energy

    WASHINGTON—This week, Chris Wright was sworn in as the 17th Secretary for the Department of Energy. Nominated by President Donald J. Trump for his leadership and experience in the energy sector, Secretary Wright has been at the forefront of expanding domestic production, strengthening critical infrastructure, and advancing policies that promote American energy independence. His expertise will be essential as the Department returns to regular order and works to advance President Trump’s energy dominance agenda.  

    Under Secretary Wright’s leadership, the Department will focus on streamlining operations, cutting regulatory burdens imposed by the previous Administration, prioritizing common-sense solutions and unleashing American energy to drive economic growth and strengthen national security. 

    Secretary Wright’s confirmation has been met with widespread praise from policymakers, industry leaders, and trade associations and others.

    What They’re Saying:        

    “As Secretary of Energy, Chris will be a key leader, driving innovation, cutting red tape, and ushering in a new ‘Golden Age of American Prosperity and Global Peace.’” – President Donald Trump 

    “America’s extraordinary new Energy Secretary, Chris Wright, will work alongside President Trump to restore American energy dominance. As an entrepreneur and leader in the energy sector, Chris has experienced the crushing weight of bureaucracy and knows that innovation – not regulation – is what drives down energy costs. House Republicans stand ready to work with Chris to advance policies that cut red tape for producers and lower costs for consumers.” – House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.)

    “Chris Wright has seen what American-made energy can do to improve human lives, bring people out of poverty, and remake entire societies. He will be an asset to President Trump’s energy team, and I look forward to seeing what he can accomplish to make our nation energy independent once again.” – U.S. Senator John Thune (R-S.D.), Senator Majority Leader

    “Secretary Chris Wright will help usher in the golden age of American energy dominance. He understands that affordable, abundant energy is the source of American strength. Under his leadership, we will use all of our nation’s vast energy resources to lower prices for families and grow our economy. I look forward to working with Secretary Wright and Secretary Doug Burgum to promote energy projects in Wyoming and across the country.” – U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Senate Majority Whip 

    “For the last four years, when Americans opened their energy bills, they didn’t see ‘climate plans’—they saw costs piling up and questions they couldn’t answer. With Chris Wright as Secretary of Energy, I am confident that we can reverse the irresponsible policies of the Biden administration and prioritize affordable and reliable energy. Under his leadership, the DOE will once again support the American worker, the American family, and the American future.” – U.S. Senator Mike Lee, Chairman, Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources (R-Utah)

    “Chris Wright is a successful Colorado entrepreneur with deep expertise in energy innovation and technology. He is passionate about strengthening America’s energy independence and lowering costs for Colorado families. While we don’t agree on everything, we look forward to working with him to ensure Colorado continues to lead the country in energy production and innovation.”  – U.S. Senator Michael Bennet (D-Colo.)

    “Chris Wright’s Liberty Energy company has been integral to the growth of North Dakota’s Bakken oil fields. From our shale play to carbon capture development, Chris knows the importance of energy innovation to the America First agenda.” – U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.)

    “Christopher Wright has committed to an all-of-the-above domestic energy strategy that will advance and promote innovative solutions to achieve greater American energy excellence, leadership, and independence. He has an extensive background spanning many energy sources. Wright’s commitment to ensuring America is the leader in nuclear energy holds particular value for Idaho, which is home to one of the nation’s leading nuclear laboratories. Under his leadership at DOE, our nation will prioritize affordable, reliable, and secure energy sources that support American innovation and growth and improve the lives of Americans.”  – U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho)  

    “Time to unleash American energy! I look forward to working with Secretary of Energy Chris Wright to carry out President Trump’s agenda to support domestic energy production and jobs. Let’s get to work!” – U.S. Senator Steve Daines (R-Mont.)

    “Chris Wright is a scientist who has dedicated his life to the study and use of energy. He believes in science and supports the research that will deliver the affordable, reliable, and clean energy that will not only lower costs but make our country more secure. While we don’t always agree, we will work together because none of us have four years to wait to act.” – U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.)

    “Chris Wright is another great addition to the Trump administration, bringing a wealth of knowledge and real-world experience to the job of Energy Secretary. He knows what it takes to develop new technologies and make them commercially viable. In North Dakota, we’ve seen firsthand his success in the private sector with the growth in the Bakken. We look forward to working with him in his new role to build upon that record of innovation and unleash America’s energy potential, including through North Dakota’s leadership in CCUS technologies.” – U.S. Senator John Hoeven (R-N.D.) 

    “Maintaining affordable and reliable energy will be key to both our economic success and national security in the years ahead. Secretary Wright understands the importance of utilizing our domestic energy resources to secure the grid, lower prices, and create family-sustaining jobs. I congratulate Secretary Wright on his confirmation and look forward to working with him to restore American energy dominance.” – U.S. Representative Brett Guthrie (R-Ky.), Chairman, House Committee on Energy and Commerce  

    “President Donald Trump made an excellent decision to nominate Chris Wright to be our next Secretary of Energy–I am confident that Secretary Wright will be a close ally and partner with me as Chairman of Energy and Water Appropriations to expand civil nuclear energy, modernize our nuclear deterrent, revitalize America’s defense industrial base, bring back critical mineral supply chains, and unleash all forms of American-made energy to get our economy back on track, lower costs for workers and families, and make the United States the number one energy producer and exporter in the world.”  – U.S. Representative Chuck Fleischmann (R-Tenn.), Chairman, House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development

    “Southeast Texas, the energy capital of the world, welcomes Secretary Chris Wright as our new leader of the Department of Energy. With his expertise and leadership, I am confident we will reverse the damage done to our energy industry, unleash American energy, and restore the United States as the dominant force on the world stage.” – U.S. Representative Randy Weber (R-Texas), Vice Chairman, Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Energy   

    “I am greatly looking forward to working with Chris Wright in his new role as Secretary of Energy. Secretary Wright deeply understands the undeniable link between energy security and national security, the importance of reliable energy infrastructure, and how overregulation has killed innovation. I am eager to work alongside him to unleash domestic energy production, advance critical technologies, and restore American dominance on the global stage.”  – U.S. Representative August Pfluger (R-Texas), Chairman, Republican Study Committee 

    “I’m glad to see the Senate confirm Secretary Chris Wright. Under the Trump administration, reliable and proven energy sources such as liquefied natural gas and nuclear will thrive, and costs will decline. The Congressional Western Caucus is committed to supporting Secretary Wright’s efforts to ensure a golden age for American energy.” – U.S. Representative Doug LaMalfa (R-Calif.), Chairman, Congressional Western Caucus  

    “Congratulations, Chris Wright! You understand the importance of affordable, reliable, AND sustainable energy. I’m excited for your forward-thinking leadership at the Department of Energy, which will help secure our grid, lower costs, reduce emissions, and help our allies around the world.” – U.S. Representative Julie Fedorchak (R-N.D.)

    “Congratulations to Chris Wright on his confirmation as President Trump’s Secretary of Energy! Under the Trump administration, we will unleash American energy—including biofuels—to lower prices at the pump and end our reliance on foreign countries for our energy needs.” – U.S. Representative Randy Feenstra (R-Iowa)

    “Chris Wright’s strengths as an innovator and strategic thinker will be invaluable in bringing new ideas to the National Energy Council.”  – Gale Norton, former U.S. Secretary of the Interior 

    “Congrats to our next Secretary of Energy, Chris Wright. With his background in engineering and developing the Bakken, Chris understands how innovation drives production—making America safer with abundant, affordable, and reliable energy. Good for our state, good for the nation.” – Governor Kelly Armstrong (R-N.D.)

    “Secretary Chris Wright’s experience in the American energy sector gives him an important perspective that will inform his leadership of the Department of Energy. We look forward to working with him to bolster American geopolitical strength by swiftly approving new LNG export permits and ensuring the open access of American energy for our allies around the world.” – Mike Sommers, President and CEO, American Petroleum Institute   

    “Throughout their confirmation hearings, Governor Burgum, Congressman Zeldin, and Chris Wright have each proven their expertise and made clear they intend to advance an America-first, all-of-the-above energy strategy. With their leadership, I am confident we can collaborate on pragmatic, conservative policies to lower energy costs for American families and businesses and create good-paying jobs across the country—all while ensuring a cleaner future for generations to come.” – Heather Reams, President, Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions 

    “We look forward to working with Mr. Wright to prioritize programs that help keep the lights on for families and businesses across America. We also look forward to working with Mr. Wright and DOE to make effective and efficient use of the remaining infrastructure funding appropriated by Congress that supports investments in electric infrastructure and helps co-ops harden their systems.” – James Matheson, CEO, National Rural Electric Cooperative Association

    “We applaud the Senate’s confirmation of Chris Wright as Secretary of Energy. In this new role, Secretary Wright will play a pivotal role in furthering our nation’s energy and national security goals through prioritizing reliable, 24/7/365 energy generation, like clean nuclear energy. We look forward to working with Secretary Wright to continue our progress toward building the resilient, reliable, and affordable energy grid of the future.” – Maria Korsnick, President and CEO, Nuclear Energy Institute

    “On behalf of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) community, I’m pleased to congratulate Chris Wright on his confirmation as the U.S. Secretary of Energy. ASME continues to have strong alignment with the Department of Energy’s mission to advance our national energy goals, and we look forward to working with Secretary Wright to advance technology development, strengthen our energy workforce, and promote affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy.” – Thomas Costabile, Executive Director and CEO, American Society of Mechanical Engineers

    “With the Senate’s confirmation of Chris Wright, Doug Burgum, and Lee Zeldin, the United States is poised for a new era of energy leadership. These individuals are proven champions of energy development, job creation, and technological innovation. Under their leadership, we are confident that the United States will lead in energy and technology advancement, which will continue to become more hand in glove over time. The Digital Energy Council looks forward to working alongside the administration to ensure continued progress in the digital energy sector.” – Thomas Mapes, President, Digital Energy Council

    “PLASTICS extends our sincere congratulations to Chris Wright on his confirmation to serve as Secretary of the U.S. Department of Energy. Mr. Wright’s leadership in the energy sector, combined with his unwavering commitment to economic growth and job creation, aligns closely with the priorities of the plastics industry. We look forward to collaborating with Mr. Wright to implement practical, forward-thinking policies that will not only enhance the plastics industry but also promote sustainability, circularity, and responsible growth throughout the supply chain.” – Matt Seaholm, President and CEO, Plastics Industry Association 

    “Congratulations to Chris Wright on his confirmation as U.S. Secretary of Energy! With his expertise across nuclear, oil & gas, and renewables, America’s energy future is in strong hands.” – America First Policy Institute

    “Congratulations to Chris Wright on his confirmation as U.S. Secretary of Energy! With his deep expertise in energy innovation and commitment to affordability and reliability, we look forward to his leadership in shaping America’s energy future.” – The Colorado Business Roundtable

    “Chris is the right choice to reorient DOE toward a mission of bettering human lives—his passion has been evident for years.” – Western Energy Alliance

    “On behalf of EPSA and its members, I extend our congratulations to Secretary Chris Wright, Secretary Doug Burgum, and Administrator Lee Zeldin on their confirmations. We look forward to working with them to advance policies that enable infrastructure development and ensure Americans have access to reliable and cost-effective energy to meet the demands of a growing and evolving economy.” – Electric Power Supply Association 

    “Chris Wright as Secretary of Energy is a total game changer for American energy policy. We as a country are lucky that Chris’s vast energy knowledge, leadership abilities, and commitment to energy freedom will guide our energy policy.” – Alex Epstein, Author and Energy Advocate 
     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Peace by chocolate: One Syrian refugee family’s journey to sweet success

    Source: United Nations 2

    “War can kill anything in a person, but it cannot kill values ​​and hope. Syrians are a naturally happy people, and we aspire to live in a spirit of giving, generosity and hospitality.”

    Just desserts

    With these words, Tareq Hadhad described to UN News the difficult journey his family took from the Syrian capital to the remote Canadian city of Antigonish.

    The Hadhads are a long-established Damascene family and from it came judges, engineers and doctors for generations. But, what they are best known for is chocolate, a legacy that Mr. Hadhad’s father, Issam, built in 1986.

    That year, the senior Mr. Hadhad decided to leave mechanical engineering and start making chocolate despite the fact that there were only a few well-known companies in the Middle East in that field at the time.

    Chocolate for good

    The younger Mr. Hadhad said his father wanted to be in a field “that made people around him happy” as frustration prevailed among Syria’s youth after the events of 1982, when the Hafez al Assad regime committed the Hama massacre.

    Founded “from scratch”, the company grew to employ hundreds of people.

    In 2008, it began exporting to several countries in the Middle East and Europe in line the senior Mr. Hadhad’s aspiration: to “deliver the message of the Syrians all over the world” through a universal product that everyone knew and loved, his son explained, adding that the goal was not only to increase sales, but to embark on several development and relief projects in Syria.

    “My father believed that if you are successful in your life, you have a responsibility to raise others to success,” Mr. Hadhad said.

    Peace by Chocolate

    Isam Hadhad makes chocolate in the factory.

    Time for survival

    Before 2013, the entire family of more than 60 people lived in one building chockful of memories just south of the Al-Midan area in old Damascus, standing their ground for two years after the war began.

    “I lost many members of my family,” Mr. Hadhad said. “My sister’s husband was arrested, tortured and then killed in prison. Many of my cousins ​​ disappeared, some of whom we still know nothing about and some of whom were summarily executed.”

    The chocolate factory was targeted in airstrike in 2012 and the following year, as Mr. Hadhad and his brother were walking in a street in downtown Damascus, a missile fell nearby.

    “Amid the dust, I thought my brother was dead,” he said. “I picked him up and ran home. When I got there, I told the family this is not the time to build a business or study. This is a time for survival.”

    ‘We are not victims’

    The family made the excruciating decision to seek refuge in Lebanon, leaving everything behind. The following year, they learned that the regime’s forces had “looted their homes, burned them down and bombed them to cover up the crime”.

    “There are many Syrians who have lost much more than us,” Mr. Hadhad said. “We are not victims. We are victors regardless of the outcome because we were able to survive the war with our lives and start our lives again.”

    The family registered with the UN refugee agency, UNHCR, and moved many times in Lebanon until they settled in the city of Sidon. While Mr. Hadhad said the Lebanese people were very hospitable to the Syrians, because no official agreements had been signed, they could not work, rent homes or go to school.

    Refugees giving back

    Lebanon, as a country of four to five million people at the time, received more than a million Syrian refugees in a very short period of time.

    “That’s equivalent to 10 to 15 million American refugees entering Canada in a year or two,” he said. “Of course, the country wouldn’t be able bear that burden. But, Lebanon absorbed that burden over 13 years.”

    Indeed, the burden of the war wasn’t just on Syria and the Syrian people, but on the peoples of the entire region, including the Jordanians, Lebanese, Turkish and Iraqis.

    However, the Hadhad family was determined “at every stage of our refugee story to prove to the world that we can give to the host community and not take”.

    For his part, Mr. Hadhad spent most of his days in Lebanon volunteering with several relief organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNHCR, providing his expertise in healthcare to both Syrian refugees and their Lebanese hosts alike, having reached the final stages of his medical studies before leaving Syria.

    Canada bound

    The family’s goal was to return to Syria, but when that seemed like a distant dream and their fears grew for the future of the young children who had missed years of education, they began applying for resettlement in other countries.

    In 2015, despite many interviews at embassies from around the world, not a single one would accept them, Mr. Hadhad said.

    “Late that year, things changed,” he said. “The new Canadian Government had pledged to receive about 25,000 Syrian refugees, and my family was one of them.”

    Peace by Chocolate

    The Hadhad family celebrating Canada Day.

    UN intervention

    The UN was the turning point in the Hadhad family’s story. Without being identified as refugees by the UNHCR, they would not have been able to even apply for resettlement in Canada.

    The Canadian embassy conducts cross-checks through the UNHCR, and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) also played a key role in their resettlement process.

    But, the major credit goes to Canadians themselves. The tragic drowning of toddler Alan Kurdi and his family in the summer of 2015 while trying to reach Europe had spread throughout the globe, the cause of Syrian refugees became a global cause.

    Canadian hospitality, one family at a time

    Community leaders in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, home to 5,000 residents and 5,000 students at St. Francis Xavier University, raised enough money to host one Syrian family that matched the Hadhads, and so they sponsored them without knowing their names, the way they looked or even their backgrounds.

    “The community in Antigonish are pioneers in their DNA, and when they saw they could make a difference, they started the process of registering an organization called SAFE (Syrian Antigonish Families Embrace),” Mr. Hadhad said.

    “I don’t know how people who are almost 8,000km away from Syria or Lebanon could be so concerned with our ability to restart our lives and to see my siblings and my sister Alaa’s children go to school. I did not expect that there would be human beings among us on this planet with such a spirit of giving because we lived through wars and saw how people kill each other.”

    He said he came to Antigonish, on the eastern coast of Canada, because of them and because they believed that he, as a person, had the same values, dignity, respect, rights and freedoms that apply to anyone in Canada.

    One peace won’t hurt

    This act left a huge mark on him and prompted the family to do everything in their power to give back to the Canadian community “that believed in us and our humanity and tried to support us in every way”, he said.

    “This community restored our faith in humanity. Regardless of the colour of your skin, your religion or where you were born, you are qualified to be a human being.”

    It was also the community “that gave us the idea of ​peace with its kindness and generosity that match our values”, he added.

    Peace by Chocolate

    The original factory shed built by members of the community and located on the family’s property next to their home.

    ‘Peace by Chocolate’

    To prove that nothing is impossible with hope, the family spotted a niche job opportunity to build on the legacy they were forced to leave behind in Syria. While it took decades to register their chocolate company in Syria due to government corruption, it took only a few weeks in Canada.

    From there, the road to success began on all levels.

    “Our project did not start for a purely economic reason, nor did it start for a purely humanitarian purpose; it combined the two,” Mr. Hadhad said.

    “That is why we named it Peace by Chocolate. Many companies around the world aim to make profits, but our goal was to support the community and at the same time to try to grow the company to become one of the largest companies in Canada.”

    ‘Canadians pull together’

    A few months after the opening of Peace by Chocolate in 2016, wildfires swept through Fort McMurray in Alberta in Canada’s mid-west. The Hadhads were watching the news as Canadians lost everything as their homes burned down, forcing them to seek refuge at Canadian Red Cross shelters.

    “Canadians always pull together, so we felt a responsibility to give back to the people who welcomed us with such warmth and kindness,” Mr Hadhad said, explaining that they launched a fundraising campaign, donating profits from Peace for Chocolate to help aid organizations.

    In September of that year, at the UN Leaders’ Summit on Refugees in New York, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau highlighted the Hadhad’s story and their contribution to the relief efforts in their new country just months after their arrival.

    Kindness pays off

    Since then, the Hadhad’s company has raised more than $655,000 to support relief projects for across Canada alongside 11 partnership agreements with such organizations as the Canadian Red Cross.

    “Thanks to the support of the Antigonish community and the country as a whole, we have been able to grow our company and have paid tens of millions in taxes to back into the Canadian economy,” Mr. Hadhad said.

    “Kindness pays off, and the best investment you can make is to be kind to others.”

    Peace by Chocolate is now the third largest employer in Antigonish, home to the company headquarters and factory. With the senior Mr. Hadhad as president and his son, Tareq, the CEO, the company has a branch in Halifax, the provincial capital, and its products are sold in more than a thousand stores across Canada.

    Mr. Hadhad said the Peace by Chocolate website has become the largest e-commerce platform in Canada’s Atlantic region, and it aspires to become the largest chocolate exporter in the country and to open branches in the United States, Japan and the Middle East.

    Peace by Chocolate

    Tareq and his father Isam meet Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for the first time.

    Refugee to employer

    Despite the major differences that separate the family from their new community, what brought them together was “much stronger”, and they never felt like outcasts at any time or that they are obstacles to becoming part of that community.

    Mr. Hadhad said any successful refugee or migration story has two sides. There is, of course, a major role for the host community to play, but “the main responsibility lies primarily with the migrant or refugee”.

    “No one is going to knock on your door and ask about your story or your ambitions for the future. The first step always comes from the migrant or refugee themselves to tell their story,” he said.

    That is exactly what he did. He spoke with the local newspaper shortly after arriving and made the front page. The word spread. The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) sent a correspondent to visit the Hadhad’s every month to follow up on their integration.

    A sense of belonging

    In addition to the warm welcome from Canadians themselves, stability was a major factor in the family’s integration, with the Hadhads granted permanent residency upon arrival.

    In many countries, as a refugee, “you can’t think beyond an hour, a week or a month because your situation is always temporary,” Mr. Hadhad explained.

    “What Canada also gave us was ambition for sustainability,” he said. “You can think 10 or 20 years into the future or even for the rest of your life. You can build projects and plan. Canada gave us a sense of belonging and citizenship even before we became Canadian citizens.”

    He said he has the utmost respect for “the Canadian brand” and what it stands for.

    “Regardless of what politicians, individuals or economists do, I am proud to belong to this great country and to be a Canadian citizen today.”

    UNHCR/Darren Calabrese

    Tareq Haddad with his family and friends in Halifax, Nova Scotia, for his citizenship ceremony in January 2020.

    ‘More than a miracle’

    After more than 13 years of war, destruction and displacement, Mr. Hadhad described the fall of the Bashar al Assad regime as “more than a miracle” as many Syrians had lost hope of getting rid of the oppressive regime that had terrorised the country for more than 50 years.

    The future of Syria seems “very bright” to him, thanks to the efforts of its heroic people who refused to leave Syria and those who sought refuge in other communities around the world and built strong relationships there, he said.

    “My city, Damascus, is the oldest city in the world. It has survived much greater disasters than what happened to it in the past 50 years,” he said. “God willing, we are on the road to recovery, and I have a strong belief that the Syrian people will overcome all the difficulties of the war and build a country that we can all be proud of.”

    After 12 years in exile, he is now looking forward to visiting the country soon to meet those loved ones he left behind, including one of his sisters.

    Pride and duty to the homeland

    Supporting the Canadian community was a duty to pay back those that embraced the Hadhads in their hour of need, and now the family is focusing on its moral obligation to help their homeland.

    From working on licensing in the Middle East to be closer to collecting donations through Peace by Chocolate sales, the Hadhads aim to support relief organizations and those helping Syrian refugees return home. Efforts are also underway to connect the Syrian-Canadian community by presenting models of projects in Syria that it can support.

    “It is an honour for us to contribute to rebuilding it again and to support our Syrian people,” Mr. Hadhad said.

    Peace by Chocolate

    The Hadhad family and many supporters join them in the opening of their factory in Antigonish in 2017.

    Creating a happy ending

    In a message to people facing hardship and forced expulsion, Mr. Hadhad stressed that “believing in values, in oneself and in a bright future is very important, but what is more important is fighting despair in all its forms”.

    “I advise anyone anywhere around the world looking for an opportunity – if you don’t find it, create it yourself,” he said.

    “As long as we are able to continue our lives, we are able to create new opportunities for ourselves and our new communities. We must not forget to give back to the countries that opened their doors to us, and at the same time be proud of where we came from, because we are ultimately ambassadors for our culture, our countries, and our values.”

    Mr. Hadhad cited author Mary Robinson: “nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending.”

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Parliament has passed landmark election donation laws. They may be a ‘stich up’ but they also improve Australia’s democracy

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Joo-Cheong Tham, Professor, Melbourne Law School, The University of Melbourne

    Federal parliament has passed the biggest changes to Australia’s electoral funding laws in decades.

    The Albanese government’s Electoral Legislation Amendment (Electoral Reform) Bill 2024 cleared the Senate on Wednesday night after just two hours of debate on amendments agreed to earlier by the Coalition. In blatant disregard for democracy, the government refused to refer the bill to a parliamentary committee for proper scrutiny.

    The amendments fail to address numerous deficiencies in the original bill that was introduced last November. Transparency has been wound back and hollow contribution caps have been locked in.

    In significant respects, however, the package is an improvement on the status quo, which has seen unrestricted donations and spending flourish. So, too, secrecy.

    We need to penetrate the sound and fury of partisanship and assess the substance of these laws. This will yield a much more nuanced picture than conveyed by cross bench claims of a major party stitch up.

    Some improvement to transparency

    The government originally proposed lowering the disclosure threshold for donations from $16,000 to $1,000. The revised bill settles on a new threshold of $5,000.

    The amendments fail to plug a loophole that allows a donor to give separately to all of the branches attached to a political party if each individual contribution is just under the threshold. For example, a donor could spread almost $45,000 to the nine state and federal branches of the ALP without being required to declare the amounts.

    But the new laws will usher in near-real time disclosure and substantially reduce “dark money”, a seismic shift from the secrecy and lack of timeliness in the regime it replaces.

    Hollow donation caps

    Under the reforms, a series of contribution caps have been introduced to curb the influence of big money in politics.

    In my assessment of the original bill, I highlighted how the caps would prevent multi-million dollar contributions from cashed-up individuals.

    The amendments go further by closing a number of sizeable loopholes. Self financing candidates, such as Clive Palmer and Malcolm Turnbull will be subject to the contribution caps. The current exclusions for membership and affiliation fees to associated entities – “disguised donations” – will also be caught by the caps.

    But any positives are emphatically outweighed by the “annual gift cap” more than doubling to $50,000. The same “spreading” loophole that applies to the disclosure obligations would allow a donor to to give just shy of this amount to each of a party’s state and federal branches across the country. The major parties could reap up to almost $450,000 per annum from a single donor.

    And the “overall gift cap” on total donations made to political parties and candidates is a generous $1.6 million, which means large contributions will still be permissible under the new framework.

    The government has also failed to remove the patently unfair provisions relating to “nominated entities”, which are likely to be used by the major parties as investment vehicles.

    As the Victorian Electoral Review Expert Panel has rightly noted, such entities:

    provide some (parties) with significantly more funds, creating a risk that those (parties) drown out other voices.

    Election spending contained and fairer

    The spending caps in the new finance laws are fundamentally unaltered by the government’s amendments.

    The $800,000 per electorate limit, and $90 million per party nationally, will contain the “arms race” that has necessitated “big money” fundraising and fuelled unfair contests.

    However, the limits are set too high and will benefit the established parties due to the narrow scope of the spending caps in individual electorates. This means the major parties will be able to shift funding to must-win seats without being caught by the electorate caps.

    This shortcoming has been seized upon as clear evidence that Labor and the Liberals are seeking to kneecap Teal election campaigns. While having some force, these criticisms should be viewed in the context of the current situation where the major parties have an unfettered ability to direct spending to marginal seats, a situation which the Teals are ironically defending with their opposition to spending caps.

    The importance of public funding

    The new regime includes a substantial jump in public funding from $3.50 to $5 per vote.

    Crossbenchers, such as Kate Chaney, are opposed, to the increase, saying it will entrench the might of the majors while making it harder for new independents:

    The effect of increasing public funding is that political parties don’t have to fundraise because they’ve got their war chests. But any challengers do have to fundraise.

    While there is a clear risk of unfairness, the crossbench position throws the baby out with the bathwater. It romanticises the role of private funding, skating over the risks of corruption and undue influence via large donations.

    The public funding of political parties and candidates is warranted. But there should be a conversation about the design and scope of taxpayer support.

    The political finance laws could be made considerably fairer by fixing the structural bias that favours incumbents, including teal MPs. And they don’t need to be as generous given the large flows of private funding that will continue under the shallow contribution caps.

    Unfinished business

    Bad processes tend to make bad laws. The government’s actions have cast a pall of illegitimacy over its political finance regime. The new framework is unfair and ineffectual in significant ways and yet democracy enhancing in others.

    We are all trustees of democracy, with an obligation to protect and deepen democratic practices. An urgent task in that continuing struggle is to protect the strengths of these laws while jettisoning the elements that are egregiously bad.

    Joo-Cheong Tham has received funding from the Australian Research Council, the Australian Council of Trade Unions, European Trade Union Institute, International IDEA, the New South Wales Electoral Commission, the New South Wales Independent Commission Against Corruption and the Victorian Electoral Commission. He is a Director of the Centre for Public Integrity; Expert Network Member of Climate Integrity; a Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences in Australia; and the Victorian Division Assistant Secretary (Academic Staff) of the National Tertiary Education Union.

    – ref. Parliament has passed landmark election donation laws. They may be a ‘stich up’ but they also improve Australia’s democracy – https://theconversation.com/parliament-has-passed-landmark-election-donation-laws-they-may-be-a-stich-up-but-they-also-improve-australias-democracy-249588

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: China launches mental health assistance hotline

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Students participate in an outdoor activity focusing on mental health at Zhangqiu No. 4 Middle School in Zhangqiu District of Jinan, east China’s Shandong Province, Oct. 23, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A total of 18 provincial-level regions in China, including Beijing, Shanghai and Zhejiang, have launched the 12356 mental health assistance hotline, aiming to provide the public with more accessible, high-quality mental health services, a Chinese health official said on Thursday.
    Other provinces are actively progressing with similar initiatives to ensure comprehensive mental health services coverage nationwide, Hu Qiangqiang, a spokesperson for the National Health Commission (NHC), said at a press conference.
    Hu noted that the NHC has designated 2025 to 2027 as “pediatrics and mental health service years,” and outlined other key measures such as promoting mental health knowledge among key groups and guaranteeing that every city-level region has at least one hospital with specialized psychological and sleep disorder clinics.
    During the period, over 5,000 lectures on mental health will be organized nationwide, according to Hu.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Jurassic fossil discovery in China sheds new light on origin of birds

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    This illustration shows a restored image of the fossilized bird Baminornis zhenghensis and Zhenghe Fauna. [Photo/Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology handout via Xinhua]
    Chinese scientists have unearthed the oldest short-tailed bird fossil, dating back about 150 million years, in east China’s Fujian province. This suggests that birds might have originated earlier than previously thought.
    The fossilized bird Baminornis zhenghensis was discovered in Zhenghe County, Fujian Province. Its short tail ends in a compound bone called the pygostyle, a feature uniquely present in modern birds. This indicates that the body structure of modern birds emerged in the Late Jurassic Period, 20 million years earlier than previously known.
    The bird displays a unique combination of traits, including modern bird-like shoulder and pelvic girdles, as well as a non-avian dinosaurian-like hand, which is a very interesting and contradictory phenomenon, said Wang Min, lead and correspond author of this study from the Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology (IVPP) under the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), and the leading scientist of the research team.
    “This is a groundbreaking discovery. It overturns the previous situation that Archaeopteryx was the only bird found in the Jurassic Period,” said Zhou Zhonghe, an academician of CAS.
    Based on the discovery, scientists speculate that the emergence of the earliest birds could be traced back to an even earlier time, possibly 172 million to 164 million years ago, according to Wang.
    The study, conducted by researchers from IVPP and the Fujian Institute of Geological Survey, was published in the latest issue of the journal Nature.
    While it is well established that birds evolved from dinosaurs, the timing of this transition has long been debated. Some studies suggest that birds’ earliest diversification occurred during the Jurassic Period, though the fossil record has been sparse and fragmentary. Archaeopteryx, often considered the earliest known and arguably the only Jurassic bird, has long been the focus of this debate.
    Although Archaeopteryx possessed feathered wings, it closely resembled non-avian dinosaurs, particularly due to its long, reptilian tail, which is in stark contrast to the short tails seen in modern birds. Recent research has even questioned whether Archaeopteryx should be classified as a bird, suggesting instead that it may be more closely related to the deinonychosaurs, a group of theropod dinosaurs.
    “If the avian status of Archaeopteryx is in question, the Baminornis zhenghensis is currently the most definitive Jurassic bird,” Wang said.
    The shortening of the tailbone is one of the most profound morphological changes in the evolution from dinosaurs to birds. The most distinctive feature of the Baminornis zhenghensis is its pygostyle. The emergence of the pygostyle is crucial for the forward shift of the body’s center of gravity, the independent movement of the hind limbs and tailbone, and the refinement of flight capabilities, Wang said.
    Scientists speculate that the Baminornis zhenghensis weighed over 100 grams, similar in size to a pet parrot, and lived in a swampy environment.
    “Its shortened tail and more advanced structure in its scapula lead us to believe that its flying ability was superior to that of Archaeopteryx. However, due to the incomplete fossil, we are unable to determine its exact flying posture,” Wang said.
    The researchers employed multiple methods to determine the position of Baminornis zhenghensis in the evolutionary tree of birds. Their findings indicate that it is the earliest bird clade to diverge just after Archaeopteryx.
    At the same site, scientists found another fossil consisting only of a furcula, or wishbone. Geometric morphometric and phylogenetic analyses identified it as belonging to Ornithuromorpha, a group of birds from the Cretaceous Period.
    “The discovery of the two fossils indicates that at least two species of birds lived in the Zhenghe Fauna,” Wang said.
    The Zhenghe Fauna is a terrestrial biota evidenced by a large number of tortoise, turtle, fish and plant fossils that have been unearthed. It is known as the southernmost location globally where Avialae fossils from the late Jurassic Period are preserved.

    This combo photo shows an image of the fossilized bird Baminornis zhenghensis (above) and a skeleton diagram. Chinese scientists have unearthed the oldest short-tailed bird fossil, dating back about 150 million years, in east China’s Fujian Province. [Photo/Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology handout via Xinhua]
    During the late Jurassic Period, frequent volcanic eruptions occurred along the region’s southeastern coastline. However, during quiescent periods, lakes and basins formed in the mountainous areas of what is today called Zhenghe County, creating a favorable ecological environment for plant growth and animal habitation.
    Zhenghe’s unique biological composition and geological background provide important information for the study of the evolution of terrestrial ecosystems in the late Jurassic Period, as well as the origins of birds and other animals, according to Chen Runsheng at the Fujian Institute of Geological Survey.
    “The newly discovered fossils point to an earlier origin of birds and suggest that birds most likely have radiated during the Jurassic Period,” said Zhou, the CAS academician.
    The fossils fill a gap in the early evolutionary history of birds, providing the strongest evidence yet that birds had begun to diversify by the end of the Jurassic Period, scientists said.
    “Baminornis is a landmark discovery, and ranks among the most important bird fossils unearthed since the discovery of Archaeopteryx in the early 1860s,” said Stephen L. Brusatte, a paleontologist from the University of Edinburgh.
    “Why did dinosaurs take to the skies and eventually evolve into the over 11,000 species of birds we have today? Such a major transition involved a series of changes. How were these changes in anatomy, physiology and behaviors across the entire body accomplished? We hope we can find more complete bird fossils, and even those with feathers, in the future so that our understanding of evolution becomes more comprehensive and profound,” said Xu Xing, an academician of CAS and head of IVPP.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New appointments to the National Film and Sound Archive board

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    The Albanese Labor Government has appointed Mrs Lucinda Brogden AM as Deputy Chair of the National Film and Sound Archive of Australia Board.

    Mr Joseph Thorp, Ms Caroline Lilley and Ms Jaclyn Lee-Joe have also been appointed as members of the Board, each for a term of three years.

    A treasured national collecting institution, the Archive collects, preserves and shares Australia’s audiovisual culture – providing an unbroken record of Australian creativity and diversity.

    Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke, said the appointments would strengthen the governance and strategic direction of the National Film and Sound Archive. 

    “Lucinda, Joe, Carol and Jackie have accomplished and varied careers in their respective fields with valuable experience working in Australia’s arts industry. 

    “Protecting our beloved cultural institutions for future generations means having the best leadership in place to safeguard them.”

    Mrs Lucinda Brogden AM has been a member of the Archive Board since December 2021 and has more than 30 years’ experience in accounting, finance and organisational psychology. She currently serves on a number of boards including as Chair of the Diabetes Australia Research Trust, Director of the Corporate Mental Health Alliance, Director at Australian Unity, and a Director of Be Kind Sydney. 

    In 2019, Mrs Brogden was awarded the Member of the Order of Australia for significant service to workplace mental health and wellbeing. 

    Mr Joseph Thorp is currently the Chair of the Board of Directors of the State Theatre Company of South Australia. Following a career in international business, Mr Thorp serves as Secretary of Synod of the Anglican Diocese of Adelaide and Director of professional advisory services firm Slingsby Taylor Pty Ltd. Mr Thorp sits on a variety of other boards including the Governance and Nominations Committee at AnglicareSA, and as a Director of the Anglican Representative (National Redress Scheme) Limited. Mr Thorp has also served as Chairman and member of different boards including Chair of the Council of Governors of St Peter’s College, and Chair of Guide Dogs South Australia and Northern Territory.

    Ms Carol Lilley has over 25 years’ experience in financial statement audit, governance and assurance, internal audit and project and risk management, with a particular focus on government. She is currently a member of the Treasury, Department of Industry, Science and Resources and Aged Care Quality Safety Commission Audit and Risk Committees. Ms Lilley is also on the Financial and Performance Reporting Sub Committee and Chair of the Financial Statements Sub Committee. Previously Ms Lilley has been a member of the Audit and Risk Committees’ for Services Australia and for the National Library of Australia. She’s also previously served as Chair of the Department of Home Affairs Audit and Risk Committee and as a member of the Finance Committee of the Archive from 2014 to 2021. 

    Ms Jaclyn Lee-Joe has more than 20 years’ experience working in marketing and digital transformation roles across the media and entertainment, financial services, telecommunications, technology and aviation sectors. She is currently Deputy Chair of the Board of Directors of Football Australia, Co-Chair of the Local Operating Entity Women’s Asia Cup 2026, Board Director of Hayes Theatre Co, and an External Member of the University of Sydney’s Risk and Performance Senate Committee. Prior to this, Ms Lee-Joe has worked as an advisor and manager at multiple media and communications companies including Netflix, BBC, Canva, Skype, K-Box Global and Virgin Mobile. 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner & Kaine Join Democratic Colleagues in Raising Alarm Over Illegal and Indiscriminate Trump Funding Cuts to NIH

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine, a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, (both D-VA) today joined U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) and their Senate Democratic colleagues in sending a letter to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. expressing serious alarm over the Trump Administration’s decision to cut NIH funding – a move that threatens to undermine America’s biomedical research infrastructure and set us back generations. These illegal cuts would create a serious funding shortfall for research institutions nationwide, undermining progress on lifesaving scientific advancements, and potentially costing the U.S. economy billions of dollars and threaten the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of workers. 

     “As the largest public funder of biomedical research in the world, NIH plays a critical role in sustaining the research infrastructure necessary for scientific breakthroughs in cancer treatment, infectious disease prevention, and medical technology innovation, among many others. President Trump has wreaked havoc on the nation’s biomedical research system in recent weeks. In his first several days in office, President Trump imposed a hiring freeze, communications freeze, ban on travel, and cancellation of grant review and advisory panels that are necessary to advance research. While some of these efforts have been reversed, they continue to cause confusion and miscommunication among researchers and recipients of NIH funds,” wrote the senators.

    Last week, the NIH announced it would set the maximum reimbursement rate for indirect costs to 15 percent – creating a serious funding shortfall for research institutions of all types across the country. This move would dismantle the biomedical research system and stifle the development of new cures for disease. It would also fail produce real cost savings and instead just shift costs to states who can’t afford to pay the difference.

    “This change to NIH’s indirect cost rate represents an indiscriminate funding cut that will be nothing short of catastrophic for the lifesaving research that patients and families are counting on. The Administration’s new policy means that research will come to a halt, sick kids may not get the treatment they need, and clinical trials may shut down abruptly,” the senators continued.

    The senators’ letter points out that, in addition to the stifling impact on discovering new cures and ripping away treatment from those who need it, changes to NIH policy and communications threaten jobs in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. NIH research supported more than 412,000 jobs and fueled nearly $93 billion in new economic activity in Fiscal Year 2023 and every dollar the NIH invests in research generates almost $2.50 in economic activity. 

    “The Trump Administration has left researchers, universities, and health systems with great uncertainty about whether they can continue to support entire research programs and patient clinical trials across the country. Institutions and grantees nationwide are dealing with an unprecedented external communications “pause” enacted by new leadership at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the lack of transparency regarding the Administration’s illegal funding freeze, and the uncertainty of how new Executive Orders would be applied to their critical work. These actions resulted in NIH freezing grant reviews and cancelling advisory meetings, delaying critical funding that scientists need to continue advancing new cures and treatments. These disruptions do not just slow research—they cost lives,” the senators stressed.

    “Our standing as a world leader in funding and producing new medical and scientific innovations has been put at risk by these recent actions from the Trump Administration. We urge you to stop playing political games with the lifesaving work of the NIH and to allow NIH research to continue uninterrupted.”

    This letter comes on the heels of a Monday ruling in which a federal judge temporarily blocked the NIH rate cut and set a hearing for February 21.

    A copy of the letter is available here and below:

     Dear Secretary Kennedy,

    We write to express our serious concern with the Trump Administration’s recent decisions that threaten to undermine the nation’s biomedical research infrastructure and set us back generations. The steps the Trump Administration has taken will create a serious funding shortfall for research institutions nationwide, threaten to undermine progress on lifesaving scientific advancements, could cost the U.S. economy billions of dollars, and threaten the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of workers. 

    As the largest public funder of biomedical research in the world, NIH plays a critical role in sustaining the research infrastructure necessary for scientific breakthroughs in cancer treatment, infectious disease prevention, and medical technology innovation, among many others. President Trump has wreaked havoc on the nation’s biomedical research system in recent weeks. In his first several days in office, President Trump imposed a hiring freeze, communications freeze, ban on travel, and cancellation of grant review and advisory panels that are necessary to advance research. While some of these efforts have been reversed, they continue to cause confusion and miscommunication among researchers and recipients of NIH funds.

    Just last week, NIH announced an illegal plan to cap indirect cost rates that research institutions rely on. In capping indirect cost rates at 15 percent for NIH-funded grants, this policy would cut funding essential for conducting research, such as operating and maintaining laboratories, equipment, and research facilities. This change to NIH’s indirect cost rate represents an indiscriminate funding cut that will be nothing short of catastrophic for the lifesaving research that patients and families are counting on. The Administration’s new policy means that research will come to a halt, sick kids may not get the treatment they need, and clinical trials may shut down abruptly.

    These confusing and harmful policy changes threaten patient safety. The strength of the American research enterprise – recognized as the best in the world – is built on Congress’ bipartisan commitment to supporting essential research infrastructure. This funding, which Congress has long appropriated on a bipartisan basis, fuels groundbreaking medical discoveries and cements the United States’ position as the global leader in biomedical research.

    In addition to the stifling impact on discovering new cures and ripping away treatment from those who need it, changes to NIH policy and communications threaten jobs in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, with everyone from custodians, to research trainees, to scientists facing potential layoffs. NIH research supported more than 412,000 jobs and fueled nearly $93 billion in new economic activity in Fiscal Year 2023. Every dollar the NIH invests in research generates almost $2.50 in economic activity. These reckless policy changes not only threaten biomedical innovation and research, but also the livelihoods of thousands of workers in every state across the nation.

    The Trump Administration has left researchers, universities, and health systems with great uncertainty about whether they can continue to support entire research programs and patient clinical trials across the country. Institutions and grantees nationwide are dealing with an unprecedented external communications “pause” enacted by new leadership at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the lack of transparency regarding the Administration’s illegal funding freeze, and the uncertainty of how new Executive Orders would be applied to their critical work. These actions resulted in NIH freezing grant reviews and cancelling advisory meetings, delaying critical funding that scientists need to continue advancing new cures and treatments. These disruptions do not just slow research – they cost lives.

    The NIH plays a critical role in our nation’s efforts to fund scientific advancements that improve health and save lives. Our standing as a world leader in funding and producing new medical and scientific innovations has been put at risk by these recent actions from the Trump Administration. We urge you to stop playing political games with the lifesaving work of the NIH and to allow NIH research to continue uninterrupted.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Collins, Rosen Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Tackle Nursing Shortage

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Jacky Rosen (D-NV) introduced the Train More Nurses Act to address the nursing shortage affecting communities across the nation. This bipartisan bill would direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services and the Secretary of Labor to conduct a review of nursing grant programs to find ways to increase faculty at nursing schools, especially those in underserved areas. It will also increase pathways for Licensed Practical Nurses to become Registered Nurses.

    “In the midst of a growing demand for medical treatments and services, health care providers across Maine continue to face a significant shortage of nurses. One challenge in growing the nursing workforce to meet this demand is the limited supply of nursing faculty available to increase student enrollment and train the next generation of nurses,” said Senator Collins. “This bipartisan legislation would identify strategies to close the faculty gap and expand our nursing workforce, ultimately improving access to care.”

    “As Nevada continues to face a shortage of nurses and doctors, it’s becoming more difficult for hardworking families to get the medical care they need,” said Senator Rosen. “I’m introducing this bipartisan bill to help increase the number of nurses in our state and improve Nevadans’ access to high-quality health care.”

    Senator Collins is working to address Maine’s health care professional shortage and improve medical care access in the state. The Maximizing Outcomes Through Better Investments in Lifesaving Equipment for (MOBILE) Health Care Act that she introduced with Senator Rosen was signed into law in 2022, and allows community health centers to use federal funds to establish new mobile health care units to increase access to health care services in rural and underserved communities.

    Last March, Senator Collins announced that she secured nearly $14 million in Congressionally Directed Spending for projects to support Maine’s health care workforce through the Fiscal Year 2024 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations bill. This included $4.5 million to construct and equip a Center for Nursing Workforce Development and Cybersecurity at the University of Maine at Augusta.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: President Trump Demands Fair, Reciprocal Trade

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    Today, President Donald J. Trump unveiled a plan for fair, free, reciprocal trade as he makes clear to the world that the United States will no longer tolerate being ripped off. The U.S. has one of the most open economies in the world, yet our trading partners keep their markets closed to U.S. exports — and reciprocal trade will finally correct that imbalance.
    President Trump’s plan to restore fairness and put American workers first was met with immediate praise:
    Renewable Fuels Association: “For almost a decade now, we have spent precious time and resources fighting back against an unfair and unjustified tariff regime imposed by Brazil’s government on U.S. ethanol imports. What’s more ironic is that these tariff barriers have been erected against U.S. ethanol imports while our country has openly accepted—and even encouraged and incentivized—ethanol imports from Brazil. As the two largest ethanol producers on the planet, we long enjoyed a cooperative free-trade relationship with Brazil involving ethanol, relying on each other when there were shortfalls or disruptions in the U.S. or Brazilian marketplace. However, that bilateral cooperation was abandoned by Brazil in 2017, when they instituted a tariff rate quota scheme, and eventually adopted a tariff in 2020. The Brazilian tariff on U.S. ethanol now stands at 18 percent and has virtually eliminated all market access for U.S. ethanol producers. We thank President Trump for taking this action and hope this reciprocal tariff will help encourage a return to free and fair ethanol trade relationship with Brazil.”
    American Iron and Steel Institute: “AISI applauds President Trump’s action today ordering the development of a comprehensive plan for restoring fairness in U.S. trade relationships and countering non-reciprocal trading arrangements. American steel producers know well the negative impact of foreign unfair trade practices, including subsidies, currency manipulation and other unfair and discriminatory policies and practices, on domestic industries and their workers … We look forward to working with the Secretary of Commerce, the U.S. Trade Representative and other key administration officials as they develop their plan of action to ensure reciprocity in international trade and to preserve the competitiveness of the American steel industry and other sectors.”
    Growth Energy: “While American biofuel producers have been almost entirely blocked off from the Brazilian market, Brazilian producers have enjoyed unfettered access to the U.S. In some cases, certain policies in the U.S. even incentivize the use of imported Brazilian ethanol instead of ethanol produced here in the U.S. This runs contrary to putting America first, and is exactly why President Trump is taking steps to address this issue. Thank you, President Trump for taking action and pushing for a level playing field for American ethanol producers.”
    Small Business Administration: “President Trump is right: restoring a level playing field on trade will unlock the next blue collar boom – creating jobs and powering our economy through ‘Made in America.’ Huge news for Main Street!”
    Energy Secretary Chris Wright: “President’s Trump’s ‘Fair and Reciprocal Plan’ on trade puts the American people first. As a former businessman, it’s great to see our country being run like a business and fighting for fairness on trade– it’s the American way!”
    Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum: “President Trump is making America strong again. His Fair and Reciprocal Plan is commonsense: if you impose tariffs on us, we will impose tariffs on you in return.”
    Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy: “Bravo, President Trump! Thank you for announcing the Fair and Reciprocal Plan, which is based on legislation we worked on together in your first term. Unfair trade practices have hurt America’s transportation and infrastructure sectors for too long. President Trump’s trade plan will strengthen supply chains, boost infrastructure investments, and expand American transportation solutions. We promised a golden age of transportation, and I will not rest until America’s transportation system is great again!”
    Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Scott Turner: “For too long Washington has put foreign interests above Americans — that ends today. @POTUS’ Fair and Reciprocal Plan will put American workers on a level playing field.”
    EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin: “The American people elected @POTUS with a mandate to grow our economy and bring back American manufacturing. When it comes to Reciprocal tariffs, no one should ever underestimate President Trump’s vision, long game, and determination to deliver the Great American Comeback.”
    Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA): “For too long, foreign countries have exploited America through unfair trade practices. President Trump’s reciprocal tariffs aim to confront these countries, protecting American workers and businesses through trade that is fair again. The Trump policies are focused on leveling the playing field and putting America FIRST.”
    Sen. Jim Banks (R-IN): “The globalist approach to trade threw our workers under a bus driven by their foreign competitors. President Trump’s America First trade plan corrects this injustice that our industries and workers have faced for decades. The reciprocal tariffs announced today will bring back fairness and prosperity and stop Americans from being taken advantage of.”
    Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN): “President Trump is putting American workers and farmers first. He will end unfair trade deals and prioritize goods made in America! With President Trump at the negotiating table, we are going to get the best possible deal.”
    Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC): “Most countries charge us far more in tariffs than we charge them. Those days are over. I applaud President Trump’s decision to impose reciprocal tariffs against our trading partners. Whatever tariffs they put on American products, we will put on their products. This will be a game changer. Simple and brilliant.”
    Sen. Roger Marshall (R-KS): “Gone are the days of unfair trade deals that give foreign nations the upper hand. Today, President Trump put the world on notice: America will no longer be taken advantage of.”
    Sen. Pete Ricketts (R-NE): “The average weighted tariff on foreign products coming into the U.S. is 1.5%, yet the average tariff on U.S. products globally is 6%. President Trump promised to bring those numbers closer to balance. These tariffs are a step toward accomplishing that goal.”
    Sen. Rick Scott (R-FL): “President Trump’s fight for a level playing field and reciprocal treatment is common sense. The U.S. is done treating others better than they’re treating us. President Trump understands the art of the deal, and thanks to his strong leadership, we’re getting better deals that will help our businesses and grow our economy!”
    Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-AL): “President Trump is brokering deals that put American farmers, manufacturers, and producers first. America has some of the best and brightest manufacturers and there’s no reason we can’t produce most things right here at home.”
    Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-MN): “The master negotiator strikes again. @POTUS is realigning the playing field with countries that have taken advantage of us for far too long and delivering on his promise to put America FIRST.”
    Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-MI): “President Trump is wasting no time leveling the playing field. I am optimistic the pressure applied by the ongoing tariff negotiations will lead to a wave of investment across the U.S. @POTUS is keeping his promise to put our economy first.”
    Ways and Means Committee Chair Jason Smith (R-MO): “President Trump understands that American workers and manufacturers can outcompete those of any other nation. But for far too long they have been held back by a lack of reciprocity because other countries impose much higher tariffs and other barriers than the United States imposes on imports. President Trump’s Executive Order helps deliver a level playing field for American workers and manufacturers.”
    Rep. Carlos Gimenez (R-FL): “President Trump has just announced RECIPROCAL TARIFFS for countries unfairly treating American products! If you want to sell to the USA, we must have access to your market as well. What is fair, is fair!”
    Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL): “We will no longer tolerate being ripped-off by the rest of the world. Under President Trump, government is putting the American people first again. And that means RECIPROCAL TARIFFS”
    Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-IA): “Brazil imposes an 18% tariff on U.S. ethanol while we only charge Brazil 2.5%. In 2024, that imbalance resulted in our nation importing $200 million in Brazilian ethanol while Brazil only imported $52 million in U.S. ethanol. Our farmers deserve better!”
    Rep. Andy Harris (R-MD): “The days of America being taken advantage of are over. The “Fair and Reciprocal Plan” will put the American worker first and bring fairness back to international trade.”
    Rep. Diana Harshbarger (R-TN): “Our nation has been at the bad end of business deals regarding trade practices with other countries for far too long. That’s coming to an end. President Trump’s reciprocal tariffs are putting the world on notice — the gravy train is over, and we won’t be taken advantage of anymore.”
    Rep. Kevin Hern (R-OK): “President Trump is a strong leader – he’s not allowing the world to take advantage of the United States any longer. These reciprocal tariffs will incentivize other nations to level the playing field and remove long-standing, exorbitant tariffs. America FIRST!”
    Rep. Riley Moore (R-WV): “President Trump just announced plans to implement reciprocal tariffs on the foreign countries who are ripping us off. I’m proud to be leading this effort in Congress.”
    Rep. Greg Steube (R-FL): “I thank President Trump for standing up for American workers with his bold plan to restore balance and fairness to the marketplace. He and his administration understand that our workers deserve trade policies that are fair and beneficial to all.  For far too long, blue-collar communities in the United States have been ripped off by foreign competitors benefiting from manipulative trade practices. If other countries believe they can continue to cheat the American people of their share of prosperity, they are sadly mistaken. President Trump has the right plan to secure our economy, restore fairness to international trade, and bring back good-paying jobs to the United States.”
    Rep. Beth Van Duyne (R-TX): “American workers, farmers, and manufacturers finally have a President who fights for them! I applaud President Trump’s plan to combat unfair trade practices. Our best days are still ahead of us!”
    House Republican Study Committee: “The Trump administration just announced reciprocal tariffs for countries like China that rip off the United States. It’s past time to flip the script on this. President Trump is trying to restore fairness in trade, ensuring that other countries are held to account for slapping tariffs on American goods. Gone are the days of our great nation being taken advantage of. Period.”
    President Trump’s plan to restore fairness and put American workers first was met with immediate praise:
    Renewable Fuels Association: “For almost a decade now, we have spent precious time and resources fighting back against an unfair and unjustified tariff regime imposed by Brazil’s government on U.S. ethanol imports. What’s more ironic is that these tariff barriers have been erected against U.S. ethanol imports while our country has openly accepted—and even encouraged and incentivized—ethanol imports from Brazil. As the two largest ethanol producers on the planet, we long enjoyed a cooperative free-trade relationship with Brazil involving ethanol, relying on each other when there were shortfalls or disruptions in the U.S. or Brazilian marketplace. However, that bilateral cooperation was abandoned by Brazil in 2017, when they instituted a tariff rate quota scheme, and eventually adopted a tariff in 2020. The Brazilian tariff on U.S. ethanol now stands at 18 percent and has virtually eliminated all market access for U.S. ethanol producers. We thank President Trump for taking this action and hope this reciprocal tariff will help encourage a return to free and fair ethanol trade relationship with Brazil.”
    American Iron and Steel Institute: “AISI applauds President Trump’s action today ordering the development of a comprehensive plan for restoring fairness in U.S. trade relationships and countering non-reciprocal trading arrangements. American steel producers know well the negative impact of foreign unfair trade practices, including subsidies, currency manipulation and other unfair and discriminatory policies and practices, on domestic industries and their workers … We look forward to working with the Secretary of Commerce, the U.S. Trade Representative and other key administration officials as they develop their plan of action to ensure reciprocity in international trade and to preserve the competitiveness of the American steel industry and other sectors.”
    Growth Energy: “While American biofuel producers have been almost entirely blocked off from the Brazilian market, Brazilian producers have enjoyed unfettered access to the U.S. In some cases, certain policies in the U.S. even incentivize the use of imported Brazilian ethanol instead of ethanol produced here in the U.S.,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “This runs contrary to putting America first, and is exactly why President Trump is taking steps to address this issue. Thank you, President Trump for taking action and pushing for a level playing field for American ethanol producers.”
    Small Business Administration: “President Trump is right: restoring a level playing field on trade will unlock the next blue collar boom – creating jobs and powering our economy through “Made in America.” Huge news for Main Street!”
    Energy Secretary Chris Wright: “President’s Trump’s ‘Fair and Reciprocal Plan’ on trade puts the American people first. As a former businessman, it’s great to see our country being run like a business and fighting for fairness on trade– it’s the American way!”
    Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum: “President Trump is making America strong again. His Fair and Reciprocal Plan is commonsense: if you impose tariffs on us, we will impose tariffs on you in return.”
    Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy: “Bravo, President Trump! Thank you for announcing the Fair and Reciprocal Plan, which is based on legislation we worked on together in your first term. Unfair trade practices have hurt America’s transportation and infrastructure sectors for too long. President Trump’s trade plan will strengthen supply chains, boost infrastructure investments, and expand American transportation solutions. We promised a golden age of transportation, and I will not rest until America’s transportation system is great again!”
    Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Scott Turner: “For too long Washington has put foreign interests above Americans — that ends today. @POTUS’ Fair and Reciprocal Plan will put American workers on a level playing field.”
    EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin: “The American people elected @POTUS with a mandate to grow our economy and bring back American manufacturing. When it comes to Reciprocal tariffs, no one should ever underestimate President Trump’s vision, long game, and determination to deliver the Great American Comeback.”
    Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA): “For too long, foreign countries have exploited America through unfair trade practices. President Trump’s reciprocal tariffs aim to confront these countries, protecting American workers and businesses through trade that is fair again. The Trump policies are focused on leveling the playing field and putting America FIRST.”
    Sen. Jim Banks (R-IN): “The globalist approach to trade threw our workers under a bus driven by their foreign competitors. President Trump’s America First trade plan corrects this injustice that our industries and workers have faced for decades. The reciprocal tariffs announced today will bring back fairness and prosperity and stop Americans from being taken advantage of.”
    Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN): “President Trump is putting American workers and farmers first. He will end unfair trade deals and prioritize goods made in America! With President Trump at the negotiating table, we are going to get the best possible deal.”
    Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC): “Most countries charge us far more in tariffs than we charge them. Those days are over. I applaud President Trump’s decision to impose reciprocal tariffs against our trading partners. Whatever tariffs they put on American products, we will put on their products. This will be a game changer. Simple and brilliant.”
    Sen. Roger Marshall (R-KS): “Gone are the days of unfair trade deals that give foreign nations the upper hand. Today, President Trump put the world on notice: America will no longer be taken advantage of.”
    Sen. Pete Ricketts (R-NE): “The average weighted tariff on foreign products coming into the U.S. is 1.5%, yet the average tariff on U.S. products globally is 6%. President Trump promised to bring those numbers closer to balance. These tariffs are a step toward accomplishing that goal.”
    Sen. Rick Scott (R-FL): “President Trump’s fight for a level playing field and reciprocal treatment is common sense. The U.S. is done treating others better than they’re treating us. President Trump understands the art of the deal, and thanks to his strong leadership, we’re getting better deals that will help our businesses and grow our economy!”
    Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-AL): “President Trump is brokering deals that put American farmers, manufacturers, and producers first. America has some of the best and brightest manufacturers and there’s no reason we can’t produce most things right here at home.”
    Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-MN): “The master negotiator strikes again. @POTUS is realigning the playing field with countries that have taken advantage of us for far too long and delivering on his promise to put America FIRST.”
    Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-MI): “President Trump is wasting no time leveling the playing field. I am optimistic the pressure applied by the ongoing tariff negotiations will lead to a wave of investment across the U.S. @POTUS is keeping his promise to put our economy first.”
    Ways and Means Committee Chair Jason Smith (R-MO): “President Trump understands that American workers and manufacturers can outcompete those of any other nation. But for far too long they have been held back by a lack of reciprocity because other countries impose much higher tariffs and other barriers than the United States imposes on imports. President Trump’s Executive Order helps deliver a level playing field for American workers and manufacturers.”
    Rep. Carlos Gimenez (R-FL): “President Trump has just announced RECIPROCAL TARIFFS for countries unfairly treating American products! If you want to sell to the USA, we must have access to your market as well. What is fair, is fair!”
    Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL): “We will no longer tolerate being ripped-off by the rest of the world. Under President Trump, government is putting the American people first again. And that means RECIPROCAL TARIFFS”
    Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-IA): “Brazil imposes an 18% tariff on U.S. ethanol while we only charge Brazil 2.5%. In 2024, that imbalance resulted in our nation importing $200 million in Brazilian ethanol while Brazil only imported $52 million in U.S. ethanol. Our farmers deserve better!”
    Rep. Andy Harris (R-MD): “The days of America being taken advantage of are over. The “Fair and Reciprocal Plan” will put the American worker first and bring fairness back to international trade.”
    Rep. Diana Harshbarger (R-TN): “Our nation has been at the bad end of business deals regarding trade practices with other countries for far too long. That’s coming to an end. President Trump’s reciprocal tariffs are putting the world on notice — the gravy train is over, and we won’t be taken advantage of anymore.”
    Rep. Kevin Hern (R-OK): “President Trump is a strong leader – he’s not allowing the world to take advantage of the United States any longer. These reciprocal tariffs will incentivize other nations to level the playing field and remove long-standing, exorbitant tariffs. America FIRST!”
    Rep. Riley Moore (R-WV): “President Trump just announced plans to implement reciprocal tariffs on the foreign countries who are ripping us off. I’m proud to be leading this effort in Congress.”
    Rep. Greg Steube (R-FL): “I thank President Trump for standing up for American workers with his bold plan to restore balance and fairness to the marketplace. He and his administration understand that our workers deserve trade policies that are fair and beneficial to all.  For far too long, blue-collar communities in the United States have been ripped off by foreign competitors benefiting from manipulative trade practices. If other countries believe they can continue to cheat the American people of their share of prosperity, they are sadly mistaken. President Trump has the right plan to secure our economy, restore fairness to international trade, and bring back good-paying jobs to the United States.”
    Rep. Beth Van Duyne (R-TX): “American workers, farmers, and manufacturers finally have a President who fights for them! I applaud President Trump’s plan to combat unfair trade practices. Our best days are still ahead of us!”
    House Republican Study Committee: “The Trump administration just announced reciprocal tariffs for countries like China that rip off the United States. It’s past time to flip the script on this. President Trump is trying to restore fairness in trade, ensuring that other countries are held to account for slapping tariffs on American goods. Gone are the days of our great nation being taken advantage of. Period.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Students misled on halal school lunches

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    It’s been revealed that Muslim students have been misled on the Government’s school lunches, which were claimed to be halal.

    “It’s unacceptable that our Muslim students were served a meal that David Seymour’s lunch provider said was halal, when it fact it wasn’t,” Labour’s Ethnic Communities Spokesperson Jenny Salesa said.

    “Claiming a meal is religiously permissible for groups of students when it isn’t, breaks a trust we have fought long and hard to establish with communities who have long called Aotearoa home.

    “New Zealand is a culturally diverse nation, rich with people of all backgrounds and faiths – and they should feel comfortable expressing their identities here.

    “I back my local school principal in her push to ensure halal school lunches are as they claim to be, halal-certified.

    “David Seymour must front up and apologise to these students and their families for a false claim that has resulted in disrespect to their faith,” Jenny Salesa said.

    “It seems with each passing day, we hear about another mishap with David Seymour’s school lunches. First they were arriving late or not at all, then it was schools having to cover extra costs for distribution and clean up, and now they’re misleading religious students,” said Education Spokesperson Jan Tinetti.

    “They should have never tampered with these school lunches in the first place, but now they’ve created a huge mess that is distracting our students’ from their learning and causing headaches for schools across the country.”

    Stay in the loop by signing up to our mailing list and following us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: After Trump Shutters White House Office, Murphy, Frost Reintroduce Bicameral Legislation To Establish Office Of Gun Violence Prevention

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    February 13, 2025

    WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and U.S. Representative Maxwell Frost (D-Fla.) on Thursday reintroduced the Office of Gun Violence Prevention Act, legislation to establish a permanent office focused on gun violence prevention at the U.S. Department of Justice.
    “The White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention played a huge role in implementing the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, helping drive down the number of gun deaths by 12 percent last year. It was wildly successful, so of course President Trump shut it down. This legislation would make the Office permanent at the Department of Justice to help state, local, and federal agencies work together to enforce gun safety laws and fund local gun violence prevention programs,” said Murphy.
    “Today we are reintroducing the Office of Gun Violence Prevention Act because we will not let the critical, life-saving work and the love and support that this office has offered countless communities no longer exist,” said Frost. “Donald Trump and Republicans in Congress would rather side with the gun lobby than protect our people. But the truth is that leaders like that aren’t just ignoring the gun violence crisis— they are enabling it. But here’s what this Administration doesn’t understand is that we don’t give up. The gun lobby? The politicians who’d rather send “thoughts and prayers” than actually save lives? We outwork them. We out organize them. And we rise above them. We are reintroducing this bill because when innocent lives are on the line, we refuse to back down.”
    “GIFFORDS is proud to support the Office of Gun Violence Prevention Act introduced today by Senator Murphy and Congressman Frost. The Office of Gun Violence Prevention wasn’t just a name—it was a proven force for safer communities that brought together law enforcement, public health experts, and community leaders to implement real solutions. We cannot allow this vital work to be undone with each change in administration. By making this office permanent through legislation, we send a clear message that protecting American lives from gun violence isn’t a temporary commitment—it’s a national priority that transcends partisan politics,” said GIFFORDS Vice President of Government and Political Affairs Vanessa N. Gonzalez.
    “The Office of Gun Violence Prevention was more than just a policy decision. It was the first time we had a dedicated team inside the White House giving this crisis the attention it deserves,” said Angela Ferrell-Zabala, executive director of Moms Demand Action. “We need leaders like Senator Murphy and Representative Frost—along with popular, common sense solutions—driving change to end gun violence in our communities. Our movement isn’t letting up. We’ll keep organizing, not just to protect our progress, but to push it forward.”
    “The White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention showed us what’s possible with a whole-of-government approach to fight gun violence. This office helped make a real difference in the fight to keep Americans safe, from driving historic drops in homicides to coordinating urgent resources for communities devastated by senseless acts of gun violence. The shuttering of this office, alongside Trump’s attack on gun safety measures, makes his priorities crystal clear: gun industry profits over American lives. Rep. Frost and Sen. Murphy understand what’s at stake – American lives. Their bill would ensure this vital work continues regardless of who sits in the Oval Office. Congress must act to restore this office and the communities it served,” said Kris Brown, President of Brady.
    “Over 1.2 million Americans have been shot since the Sandy Hook shooting tragedy and guns are the leading cause of death for American children and teens. The Biden Administration’s White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention was a landmark achievement. It saved lives by strengthening background checks, cracking down on ghost guns, promoting safe storage, and funding community-based solutions,” said Po Murray, Chairwoman of Newtown Action Alliance. “Homicide rates have declined because of these efforts. But just weeks into his second term, Donald Trump has declared war on these protections. His executive order doesn’t just dismantle progress—it actively puts American lives at risk. That is why we need Congress to step up to support the Office of Gun Violence Prevention Act. The safety of our communities should never depend on who sits in the Oval Office.”
    “The Office of Gun Violence Prevention made real, tangible progress — it saved actual human lives. That’s a fact. But it was also a powerful symbol to survivors and young people across the country who yearn for a world where we don’t have to live in terror and fear of being shot anymore,” said Madelyn Cobb, March For Our Lives Policy Manager and a student at George Washington University. “That’s why we called for it back in 2019 at a Democratic Presidential forum, to be a clarion call while Trump callously ignored our pleas for safety in his first term. We’re incredibly happy that Rep. Frost and Sen. Murphy’s bill to codify this office into law is being introduced once again, in the shadow of its unceremonious closure under Trump. At a time when Trump is making it easier for gun violence to metastasize, it is the beacon of hope we need.” 
    Specifically, the newly created Office of Gun Violence Prevention would:
    Convene an Advisory Council of senior DOJ officials, survivors, community violence intervention providers, public health officials, medical professionals who provide trauma care, mental health clinicians, state and local public health department officials, teachers, members of student groups, and veterans.
    Coordinate gun violence prevention efforts across federal agencies.
    Identify gaps in data needed for gun violence prevention research, policy development, and strategy implementation, and develop a plan to collect and analyze the data.
    Make policy recommendations.
    Educate the general public about federal laws, regulations, and available grant programs, including awareness campaigns directed at firearm owners, parents and legal guardians of minors, and gun violence prevention professionals, that include education related to safe storage of firearms and suicide prevention.
    Work to optimize the administration of the National Instant Criminal Background Check System.
    Annually report information to Congress on gun violence in the United States, recommendations for policy initiatives to reduce gun violence, and a description of the Director’s activities.
    Full text of the legislation is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Merkley, Wyden Raise the Alarm Over NIH Funding Cuts that Derail Lifesaving Research, Cost Lives and Jobs in Oregon

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
    February 13, 2025
    Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden joined an effort led by Washington State’s U.S. Senator Patty Murray in expressing serious alarm over the Trump Administration’s threats to cut the National Institutes of Health’s (NIH) federal funding to research universities?and institutions across America and in Oregon, including groundbreaking medical and health research being done at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), University of Oregon (UO), Oregon State University (OSU), Portland State University (PSU), and many others in the state.
    As the largest public funder of biomedical research in the world, NIH plays a critical role in sustaining the research infrastructure necessary for scientific breakthroughs, infectious disease prevention, and medical technology innovation. The cuts would set us back generations in finding lifesaving cures and treatments to illnesses such as Alzheimer’s, cancer, and Parkinson’s, and stopping medical trials would cost lives. 
    Additionally, the Trump Administration’s NIH funding cuts could cost the U.S. economy billions of dollars and threaten the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of workers. Nationally, NIH research supported more than 412,000 jobs and fueled nearly $93 billion in new economic activity in Fiscal Year 2023, while costing less than 1 percent of the federal budget. In Oregon, NIH invested $417 million, which directly supported more than 5,000 jobs and nearly a billion dollars in economic activity, and indirectly supported over 17,000 jobs in Oregon’s broader bioscience economy.  
    The entire Democratic caucus sent the letter to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. urgently detailing how these steps the Trump Administration is taking would have a catastrophic impact on research institutions and our economy.
    “The Trump Administration has left researchers, universities, and health systems with great uncertainty about whether they can continue to support entire research programs and patient clinical trials across the country. Institutions and grantees nationwide are dealing with an unprecedented external communications “pause” enacted by new leadership at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the lack of transparency regarding the Administration’s illegal funding freeze, and the uncertainty of how new Executive Orders would be applied to their critical work. These actions resulted in NIH freezing grant reviews and cancelling advisory meetings, delaying critical funding that scientists need to continue advancing new cures and treatments. These disruptions do not just slow research—they cost lives,” the Senators wrote.
    Last week, the NIH announced it would set the maximum reimbursement rate for indirect costs to 15 percent—creating a serious funding shortfall for research institutions of all types across the country. This move won’t produce cost savings—it will just shift costs to states that can’t afford to pay the difference. Importantly, this action by the Trump administration is illegal—Congress’ bipartisan Labor-HHS-Education Appropriations Bill prohibits modifications to NIH’s indirect costs.
    “This change to NIH’s indirect cost rate represents an indiscriminate funding cut that will be nothing short of catastrophic for the lifesaving research that patients and families are counting on. The Administration’s new policy means that research will come to a halt, sick kids may not get the treatment they need, and clinical trials may shut down abruptly,” the Senators continued.
    On Monday, a federal judge in Boston temporarily blocked the NIH rate cut and set a hearing for February 21st, but the Senators are pressing the administration to abandon the proposed cuts full stop.
    “Our standing as a world leader in funding and producing new medical and scientific innovations has been put at risk by these recent actions from the Trump Administration. We urge you to stop playing political games with the lifesaving work of the NIH and to allow NIH research to continue uninterrupted,” the Senators concluded.
    Merkley and Wyden signed the letter led by Murray alongside the entire Senate Democratic caucus: Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), John Fetterman (D-PA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Ed Markey (D-MA), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI).
    The letter is available HERE and the full text is below.
    Dear Secretary Kennedy,
    We write to express our serious concern with the Trump Administration’s recent decisions that threaten to undermine the nation’s biomedical research infrastructure and set us back generations. The steps the Trump Administration has taken will create a serious funding shortfall for research institutions nationwide, threaten to undermine progress on lifesaving scientific advancements, could cost the U.S. economy billions of dollars, and threaten the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of workers.  
    As the largest public funder of biomedical research in the world, NIH plays a critical role in sustaining the research infrastructure necessary for scientific breakthroughs in cancer treatment, infectious disease prevention, and medical technology innovation, among many others. President Trump has wreaked havoc on the nation’s biomedical research system in recent weeks. In his first several days in office, President Trump imposed a hiring freeze, communications freeze, ban on travel, and cancellation of grant review and advisory panels that are necessary to advance research. While some of these efforts have been reversed, they continue to cause confusion and miscommunication among researchers and recipients of NIH funds. 
    Just last week, NIH announced an illegal plan to cap indirect cost rates that research institutions rely on. In capping indirect cost rates at 15 percent for NIH-funded grants, this policy would cut funding essential for conducting research, such as operating and maintaining laboratories, equipment, and research facilities. This change to NIH’s indirect cost rate represents an indiscriminate funding cut that will be nothing short of catastrophic for the lifesaving research that patients and families are counting on. The Administration’s new policy means that research will come to a halt, sick kids may not get the treatment they need, and clinical trials may shut down abruptly.
    These confusing and harmful policy changes threaten patient safety. The strength of the American research enterprise – recognized as the best in the world – is built on Congress’ bipartisan commitment to supporting essential research infrastructure. This funding, which Congress has long appropriated on a bipartisan basis, fuels groundbreaking medical discoveries and cements the United States’ position as the global leader in biomedical research.
    In addition to the stifling impact on discovering new cures and ripping away treatment from those who need it, changes to NIH policy and communications threaten jobs in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, with everyone from custodians, to research trainees, to scientists facing potential layoffs. NIH research supported more than 412,000 jobs and fueled nearly $93 billion in new economic activity in Fiscal Year 2023. Every dollar the NIH invests in research generates almost $2.50 in economic activity. These reckless policy changes not only threaten biomedical innovation and research, but also the livelihoods of thousands of workers in every state across the nation.
    The Trump Administration has left researchers, universities, and health systems with great uncertainty about whether they can continue to support entire research programs and patient clinical trials across the country. Institutions and grantees nationwide are dealing with an unprecedented external communications “pause” enacted by new leadership at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the lack of transparency regarding the Administration’s illegal funding freeze, and the uncertainty of how new Executive Orders would be applied to their critical work. These actions resulted in NIH freezing grant reviews and cancelling advisory meetings, delaying critical funding that scientists need to continue advancing new cures and treatments. These disruptions do not just slow research – they cost lives.
    The NIH plays a critical role in our nation’s efforts to fund scientific advancements that improve health and save lives. Our standing as a world leader in funding and producing new medical and scientific innovations has been put at risk by these recent actions from the Trump Administration. We urge you to stop playing political games with the lifesaving work of the NIH and to allow NIH research to continue uninterrupted.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese cultural event engages students in Gozo, Malta

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    A Chinese cultural event featuring calligraphy and dumpling-making engaged students at a secondary school in Gozo, Malta, on Thursday, offering them firsthand experience of Chinese traditions.

    The event, held at Sacred Heart Minor Seminary, was organized by the Chinese Embassy in Malta, the Confucius Institute at the University of Malta, and the China Cultural Center in Malta. It marked the third consecutive school Chinese cultural event.

    In the school kitchen, teachers from the Confucius Institute guided students through the process of rolling out and assembling dumplings. Meanwhile, staff from the China Cultural Center introduced students to Chinese calligraphy in the school hall.

    “This is my first time making dumplings. I’ve never tried it before, and I really like it,” Kristen Camilleri, a 14-year-old student, remarked upon his experience with culinary traditions of Chinese cuisine for the first time.

    Another student, Matthias Pace, mentioned that he enjoyed learning Chinese calligraphy. He and his classmates practiced writing the Chinese character “Fu,” meaning “good fortune,” and “Chun,” meaning “spring,” experiencing the elegance of Chinese writing. “The calligraphy workshop was very interesting, and I would like to try it again in the future,” he said, sharing his wish to visit China and learn Chinese in the future.

    School head Charles Sultana said that cultural exchange broadens students’ perspectives. “These experiences can enrich education, open students’ minds, and expose them to different cultures and languages,” he told Xinhua. “Our students are very interested in visiting a place like China where the culture is different and its history is so rich.”

    In January 2023, a Chinese reading corner was established at the school with the support of the Chinese Embassy in Malta, which donated over 200 books covering Chinese culture, history, and society. The corner has become a resource for students and teachers eager to learn about China.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Number of intl wetland cities in China rises to 22

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Nine Chinese cities, including Dali in Yunnan province, Lhasa in the Xizang autonomous region, Fuzhou in Fujian province and Yueyang in Hunan province, were recently designated as international wetland cities, marking the third such set of cities announced after 2018 and 2022.

    At the 64th meeting of the Standing Committee of the Ramsar Convention, which was held in Gland, Switzerland, in late January, the addition of 31 cities to the Wetland City Accreditation program was announced. Currently, there are 74 accredited wetland cities around the world, with 22 of them in China.

    According to the National Forestry and Grassland Administration, wetlands are often referred to as “the kidneys of the Earth”, because they play a crucial role in purifying water, regulating climate and maintaining biodiversity.

    By prohibiting aquaculture to enable restoration of the wetland ecosystem, more than 55 percent of the Fujian Minjiang River Estuary Wetlands, located in Fuzhou’s Changle district, has recovered its ecological functions, making it an important habitat for the black-faced spoonbill, a globally endangered species, the administration said.

    Yueyang in Hunan initiated its wetland conservation efforts in the 1980s and established the East Dongting Lake Nature Reserve. The city has achieved a wetland conservation rate of 67 percent, with over 300 species of birds living there, including 18 species of first-class nationally protected birds, according to the local government.

    In the process of continuous improvement of the wetland environment, a series of bird-watching activities related to culture and tourism have also driven the area’s economic development, the local government said.

    Musonda Mumba, secretary-general of the Ramsar Convention, said last month that China has integrated wetland protection with urban development through scientific planning, providing replicable experiences for the world.

    Lei Guangchun, a professor of ecological protection at Beijing Forestry University, said China’s wetland protection has transitioned to a “new stage of high-quality development”.

    Data from the National Forestry and Grassland Administration shows that ever since China joined the Ramsar Convention in 1992, the country has improved laws and policies on protecting wetlands and achieved significant progress. China currently has 82 major wetlands, with a stable wetland area of 56.35 million hectares, ranking first in Asia and fourth globally.

    Lei, the professor, said that China is collaborating with African countries to develop a mangrove project that is expected to sequester 500,000 metric tons of carbon annually, making a substantive contribution to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

    In July, the 15th Meeting of the Conference of the Contracting Parties to the Ramsar Convention will be held in Zimbabwe. China will share technological achievements such as the smart wetland monitoring system and small-scale wetland restoration at the meeting, the National Forestry and Grassland Administration said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Students embrace new semester with diverse ‘first lesson’ across China

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Students embrace new semester with diverse ‘first lesson’ across China

    Updated: February 14, 2025 08:45 Xinhua
    A teacher instructs students to interact with an intelligent robot at the No.1 Primary School in Boxing County, east China’s Shandong Province, Feb. 13, 2025. Primary and secondary schools, as well as kindergartens in some regions across China, welcomed the first day of the new semester on Thursday. Students began the term with diverse “first lesson” activities, marking the start of a fresh academic journey. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Students interact with an intelligent robot dog at a primary school in Wuhan, central China’s Hubei Province, Feb. 13, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Students practice roller skating during a physical education class at Zunhua No.6 Experimental Primary School in Zunhua City, north China’s Hebei Province, Feb. 13, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A traffic police officer explains traffic safety knowledge to students at Zunhua No.6 Experimental Primary School in Zunhua City, north China’s Hebei Province, Feb. 13, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Children try to perform dragon dance at a kindergarten in Liangxi District, Wuxi City of east China’s Jiangsu Province, Feb. 13, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A firefighter instructs students to use fire hose at Dachuan District Experimental School in Dazhou City, southwest China’s Sichuan Province, Feb. 13, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A firefighter introduces the use of fire extinguisher to students at Jiulong Experimental School in Hailing District, Taizhou City, east China’s Jiangsu Province, Feb. 13, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Students show their handmade works created during the winter vacation at Zigui Experimental Primary School in Yichang City, central China’s Hubei Province, Feb. 13, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Students pick strawberries in a garden of Yangcunqiao Central Primary School in Jiande City, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Feb. 13, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo shows students dancing with an intelligent robot dog and a humanoid robot at a primary school in Wuhan, central China’s Hubei Province, Feb. 13, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Five best articles in Russian for 13.02.2025

    MIL Analysis: Here are the top five Russian language articles published today. The analysis consists of five articles that are prioritized at the moment.

    In today’s analysis, trends such as trust and consumer protection are highlighted.

    In addition, counterfeiting for 2024 is summarized.

    Education and social services are increasingly evolving and providing new opportunities to teach science to young people. Also, NSU CII staff is focusing on urban infrastructure in the form of new solutions using AI.

    Ethiopian master’s student Yared Dejene Jifar told in an interview why he decided to study in Russia.

    You can read one of the articles below.

    1. Financial News: Good faith behavior is a pledge of confidence in the financial market.

    The Bank of Russia has defined the basic principles of good behavior on the financial market. They are aimed at promoting business and ethical standards, creating a trusting environment and protecting the rights and interests of consumers.

    2. Financial news: Counterfeit rubles have become less common in Russia: 2024 results.

    In 2024, the level of counterfeiting reached its lowest value in recent years: 1 counterfeit per 1 million banknotes in circulation. A total of 8,240 pieces of counterfeit Russian banknotes and coins were detected in the banking system.

    3. The National Research University Higher School of Economics discussed tools of academic development and ways to involve young people in science.

    Higher School of Economics – The round table “Academic Development in the University Today and Tomorrow” was held. The participants discussed the tools of academic development used in various subject areas and ways to involve young people in science, one of which is holding regular scientific seminars. The best practices of Vyshka’s divisions were presented.

    4. How to fix defects in urban infrastructure with the help of artificial intelligence, NSU scientists came up with.

    Employees of the Novosibirsk State University Artificial Intelligence Center (NSU AIC) received a patent for a utility model of an electronic computing device for detecting defects in urban infrastructure and making decisions on their elimination.

    5. Ethiopian Master’s student Yared Dejene Jifar: “I dreamed of studying in Russia”.

    Ethiopian master’s student Yared Dejene Jifar earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Adams Science and Technology University (ASTU). Inspired by stories of friendship between the countries, he decided to continue his studies in Russia. In the interview, Yared talked about the adjustment process in a different country and shared his plans for the future.

    Learn more about MIL’s content and data services by visiting milnz.co.nz.

    Regards MIL!

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: First locally developed course established under First Nation School Board

    First locally developed course established under First Nation School Board
    jlutz

    This is a joint news release between the Government of Yukon and the First Nation School Board.

    Together, the Government of Yukon and First Nation School Board take this moment to hold up the educators and school community in Dakwäkäda where Food Sovereignty 12, an enriching and empowering locally developed high school curricula, has been approved by the Minister of Education, the Chairs of the First Nation School Board and the St. Elias Community School Community Committee.

    The goal of Food Sovereignty 12 is to deepen students’ comprehension of the food chain and its significant influence on the availability, cost and accessibility of produce, especially in northern regions grappling with challenges such as unpredictable weather patterns, access to First Nations traditional harvesting areas, reliance on food imports and limited local food production.

    Through an examination of the principles of food sovereignty, global economics and climate change considerations, the course endeavours to equip students with the knowledge and competencies needed to tackle food insecurity and advocate for sustainable, First Nations inclusive, community-driven solutions for long-term food provision.

    Together, educators Albert Oriol Surroca and Kàłxʼòkw Leger combined local, historical and scientific knowledge with an experiential approach, to develop a cohesive and connective study of food systems and community health. Spanning diverse curricular competencies including economics and transportation, First Nations empowerment and resilience and ecological studies, the 100–120 hours of instruction engage Grade 12 learners in the important work of climate change and food security. Once completed, learners earn a total of four high school credits.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Revitalising family support services in Shellharbour

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    The Albanese Government is supporting safe and connected communities throughout the Illawarra by providing $851,279 for the Shellharbour Integrated Child and Family Precinct.

    The funding for planning is the first step in making this important project a reality. It will support a comprehensive business case, master plan and detailed designs for a holistic services hub to provide early childhood and family support services in one accessible location.

    The planning work will consider the revitalisation of the site and connections to nearby services as well as parking and public transport. Local families and community stakeholders will be an integral part of designing the precinct to ensure that it is fit for purpose.

    The project is being delivered by Karitane with Barnardos Australia and the University of New South Wales.

    Planning for the Shellharbour Integrated Child and Family Precinct will consider options to provide a wide range of health, education and social care services in one accessible location.

    This support is being provided through the Government’s $400 million regional Precincts and Partnership Program, which provides investment to transform regional, rural and remote places.

    The program is investing $47.9 million to support the transformation of seven precincts across New South Wales. For more information, visit: infrastructure.gov.au/regional.

    Quotes attributable to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese

    “This project demonstrates how my Government is building Australia’s future and strengthening regional communities.

    “Having support services, education facilities and social care options all under one roof in the middle of Shellharbour will make a big difference to this beautiful and growing region.

    “We want to support regional communities to grow and thrive, for our youngest and eldest Australians and everyone in between.”

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King

    “We’re proud to partner with communities to bring important projects like this to life.

    “Being a new parent is incredibly rewarding, but it can also be really challenging. A central hub for early childhood and family support will help new parents in the Shellharbour region get the services they need close to home.”

    Quotes attributable to Assistant Treasurer and Minister for Financial Services, Member for Whitlam Stephen Jones

    “This precinct is a game changer for our community.

    “It will help connect people to vital support services they need in an easy to access way.

    “Labor is delivering for our regions and building a stronger Illawarra.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: What was the Sykes-Picot agreement, and why does it still affect the Middle East today?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andrew Thomas, Lecturer in Middle East Studies, Deakin University

    Pictures From History/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

    Some national borders are determined by natural phenomena like seas, mountains and rivers. Most, however, are created by people.

    This means the creation of borders is often a political exercise – usually informed by the interests of those who create them, not the local populations to whom they apply.

    The Sykes-Picot agreement, known officially as the Asia Minor Agreement of 1916, was arguably the first in a series of attempts by colonial powers to mould the borders of the Middle East.

    Signed in secret at the height of the first world war, Sykes-Picot was an agreement between France and Great Britain, approved by Russia. It would have lasting consequences for the region.

    It is frequently cited as the epitome of European colonial betrayal, and the genesis of most conflict in the Middle East.

    But while Sykes-Picot did significantly affect regional politics, the history is more complicated than popular narratives suggest.

    ‘The Eastern question’

    The agreement was seen by the signatories as a potential answer to what was then known by European powers as “the Eastern question”: what would happen when the Ottoman Empire inevitably collapsed?

    The Ottoman state in the early 20th century was vast compared to its European peers, encompassing Anatolia (the Asian part of modern-day Turkey) and parts of the Arabian Peninsula.

    But it was weak, and had been on a steady decline since the 18th century due to multiple military defeats, revolts and rampant corruption. By the beginning of the first world war, the Triple Entente (France, Britain and Russia) believed the Ottoman state would not survive long.

    The Entente aimed to create new “zones of influence” in the Middle East, dividing Ottoman territory into colonial partitions.

    By the beginning of the first world war, France, Britain and Russia believed the Ottoman state would not survive long.
    Everett Collection/Shutterstock

    Secret negotiations

    Between late 1915 and early 1916, Britain and France sent their respective envoys to negotiate the potential terms of this outcome in secret.

    Mark Sykes, a political adviser and military veteran, represented the British. François Georges-Picot, a career diplomat, represented the French.

    Italy and Russia also had delegations in attendance, though the discussions were dominated by Britain and France as the most powerful nations. The Ottomans were oblivious to these negotiations.

    Under the agreement:

    • France was allocated what is now Syria, Lebanon and southern Turkey
    • Britain claimed most of modern-day Iraq, southern Palestine and Kuwait
    • Russia took control of Armenia.

    An area known as the Jerusalem Sanjak (an administrative division created by the Ottomon Empire) in Palestine was to come under an international protectorate, though it was not settled in the agreement as to how this protectorate would operate.

    Sykes-Picot was kept secret, mostly because Britain had made contradictory commitments to other parties. It had promised (through a series of letters known as the McMahon-Hussein correspondence) to give independence to the Arabs who had helped the British fight the Ottomans in the first world war.

    Later, in early November 1917, it also made a promise to Zionist Jews migrating to Palestine in the Balfour Declaration. In this public declaration, Foreign Secretary Lord Arthur Balfour effectively expressed Britain’s support for the Zionist project to create a Jewish state in Ottoman Palestine. Then-Prime Minister David Lloyd George also publicly supported both Zionism and Balfour’s statement.

    The Sykes-Picot agreement did not stay secret for long.

    In November 1917, the Bolsheviks, who were now in power in Russia following the fall of the Russian monarchy, published Sykes-Picot to the world.

    Arab nationalists were enraged. So, too, were Zionists who had witnessed the Balfour Declaration just weeks prior. The Anglo-French declaration of November 1918 attempted to allay the fears of the Arabs by pledging to “assist in the establishment of national governments and administrations.” However, Arab distrust of the European powers only grew.

    Borders moulded by colonial powers

    In the years following, European powers started to reevaluate their position on Ottoman territory.

    The French, who still wished to take control of Syria, had argued the newly formed League of Nations (a predecessor of the United Nations) could give France the territory under a mandate. A mandate is a formal authorisation to govern by the League of Nations.

    The British said this would violate their earlier promises to the Arabs. Britain reiterated that the Anglo-French declaration of 1918 superseded Sykes-Picot.

    Then came the San Remo Conference in 1920, an international meeting in Italy. This is where some of the popular readings into Sykes-Picot get muddled, as several aspects of the agreement were discarded. What remained the same was the French and British desire to add Ottoman territory to their dominions.

    Here, the European victors of the first world war sought to finalise the division of Ottoman territories by slicing them into League of Nations mandates.

    This included the French mandates of Syria and Lebanon, as well as the British mandates of Palestine and Mesopotamia. Britain also confirmed at the time its support for a Jewish national homeland, while protecting the local Palestinian population.

    This is where we start to see borders of the modern Middle East form. The boundaries themselves differed from Sykes-Picot. But Britain and France, however, were still able to expand their colonial dominion in the region.

    In 1921, a group of British representatives met in Cairo to finalise the borders of their mandates. This led to the creation of two states: Iraq under King Faisal and Transjordan (now Jordan) under King Abdullah – both of whom were members of the Arab Heshemite dynasty. Palestine was to remain under British mandatory control.

    While these states had independence on paper, then-Colonial Secretary Winston Churchill believed that Transjordan would ultimately be controlled by the British Empire, giving the Heshemites only nominal independence.

    Little consideration was given to the ethnic and religious diversity of these territories. Some argue this helped lead to modern-day sectarian conflict in Iraq.

    Ripples that continue today

    The collapse of the Ottoman Empire was always going to cause regional upheaval, but the colonial jockeying for territory clearly had lasting consequences.

    Several regional conflicts were exacerbated during this period, but it would also directly lead to the creation of the state of Israel and the Arab-Israeli conflict.

    This leads to the displacement of Palestinians and the Palestinian-Israeli conflict that still rages today.

    Zionists and Arab nationalists viewed Palestine to have been originally promised to them by the British through the Balfour Declaration and McMahon-Hussein correspondence, respectfully.

    But in Sykes-Picot, the British had no intention of promising Palestine to anyone but themselves.

    As a result, the British mandate was characterised by anti-colonial violence from both Jews and Arabs.

    When the British eventually abandoned control of Palestine in 1947, the UN partition plan for two states (one Jewish, one Arab) was supposed to take over. Instead, Arab-Israeli conflict began within hours of the partition taking effect.

    So a lot happened after Sykes-Picot, with the map proposed in 1916 looking very different to what actually eventuated.

    Many scholars argue it was the agreements that followed Sykes-Picot that were more consequential, and Sykes-Picot holds only “minor importance” by comparison.

    While this may be true, Sykes-Picot is still emblematic of how consequential European colonial ambition was in the Middle East.

    And while the borders outlined in the agreement did not eventuate, Britain and France still managed to get most of the territory they wanted, with little consideration of local populations.

    The Sykes-Picot agreement is therefore one of many colonial projects that we are still feeling the ripples of today.

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

    – ref. What was the Sykes-Picot agreement, and why does it still affect the Middle East today? – https://theconversation.com/what-was-the-sykes-picot-agreement-and-why-does-it-still-affect-the-middle-east-today-246332

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: An unexpected anomaly was found in the Pacific Ocean – and it could be a global time marker

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dominik Koll, Honorary Lecturer, Australian National University

    View of the Pacific Ocean from the International Space Station. NASA

    Earth must have experienced something exceptional 10 million years ago. Our study of rock samples from the floor of the Pacific Ocean has found a strange increase in the radioactive isotope beryllium-10 during that time.

    This finding, now published in Nature Communications, opens new pathways for geologists to date past events gleaned from deep within the oceans.

    But the cause of the beryllium-10 anomaly remains unknown. Could it have been major shifts in global ocean currents, a dying star, or an interstellar collision?

    Extremely slow rocks deep in the ocean

    I am on a hunt for stardust on Earth. Previously, I’ve sifted through snow in Antarctica. This time, it was the depths of the ocean.

    At a depth of about 5,000 metres, the abyssal zone of the Pacific Ocean has never seen light, yet something does still grow there.

    Ferromanganese crusts – metallic underwater rocks – grow from minerals dissolved in the water slowly coming together and solidifying over extremely long time scales, as little as a few millimetres in a million years. (Stalactites and stalagmites in caves grow in a similar way, but thousands of times faster.)

    This makes ferromanganese crusts ideal archives for capturing stardust over millions of years.

    The age of these crusts can be determined by radiometric dating using the radioactive isotope beryllium-10. This isotope is continuously produced in the upper atmosphere when highly energetic cosmic rays strike air molecules. The strikes break apart the main components of our air – nitrogen and oxygen – into smaller fragments.

    Both stardust and beryllium-10 eventually find their way into Earth’s oceans where they become incorporated into the growing ferromanganese crust.

    Ferromanganese crust sample VA13/2-237KD analysed in this work. The anomaly was discovered in this crust at a depth of about 30mm – representing 10 million years.
    Dominik Koll

    One of the largest ferromanganese crusts was recovered in 1976 from the Central Pacific. Stored for decades at the Federal Institute for Geosciences and Natural Resources in Hanover, Germany, a 3.7kg section of it became the subject of my analysis.

    Much like tree rings reveal a tree’s age, ferromanganese crusts record their growth in layers over millions of years. Beryllium-10 undergoes radioactive decay really slowly, meaning it gradually breaks down over millions of years as it sits in the rocks.

    As beryllium-10 decays over time, its concentration decreases in deeper, older sediment layers. Because the rate of decay is steady, we can use radioactive isotopes as natural stopwatches to discern the age and history of rocks – this is called radioactive dating.

    A puzzling anomaly

    After extensive chemical processing, my colleagues and I used accelerator mass spectrometry – an ultra-sensitive analytical technique for longer-lived radioactive isotopes – to measure beryllium-10 concentrations in the crust.

    This time, my research took me from Canberra, Australia to Dresden, Germany, where the setup at the Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf was optimised for beryllium-10 measurements.

    The results showed that the crust had grown only 3.5 centimetres over the past 10 million years and was more than 20 million years old.

    However, before I could return to my search for stardust, I encountered an anomaly.

    Initially, as I searched back in time, the beryllium-10 concentration declined as expected, following its natural decay pattern – until about 10 million years ago. At that point, the expected decrease halted before resuming its normal pattern around 12 million years ago.

    This was puzzling: radioactive decay follows strict laws, meaning something must have introduced extra beryllium-10 into the crust at that time.

    Scepticism is crucial in science. To rule out errors, I repeated the chemical preparation and measurements multiple times – yet the anomaly persisted. The analysis of different crusts from locations nearly 3,000km away gave the same result, a beryllium-10 anomaly around 10 million years ago. This confirmed that the anomaly was a real event rather than a local irregularity.

    Ocean currents or exploding stars?

    What could have happened on Earth to cause this anomaly 10 million years ago? We’re not sure, but there are a few options.

    Last year, an international study revealed that the Antarctic Circumpolar Current – the main driver of global ocean circulation – intensified around 12 million years ago, influencing Antarctic ocean current patterns.

    Could this beryllium-10 anomaly in the Pacific mark the beginning of the modern global ocean circulation? If ocean currents were responsible, beryllium-10 would be distributed unevenly on Earth with some samples even showing a lack of beryllium-10. New samples from all major oceans and both hemispheres would allow us to answer this question.

    Another possibility emerged early last year. Astrophysicists demonstrated that a collision with a dense interstellar cloud could compress the heliosphere – the Sun’s protective shield against cosmic radiation – back to the orbit of Mercury. Without this barrier, Earth would be exposed to an increased cosmic ray flux, leading to an elevated global beryllium-10 production rate.

    A near-Earth supernova explosion could also cause an increased cosmic ray flux leading to a beryllium-10 anomaly. Future research will explore these possibilities.

    The discovery of such an anomaly is a windfall for geological dating. Various archives are used to investigate Earth’s climate, habitability and environmental conditions over different timescales.

    To compare ice cores with sediments, ferromanganese crusts, speleothems (stalagmites and stalactites) and others, their timescales need to be synchronous. Independent time markers, such as Miyake events or the Laschamp excursion, are invaluable for aligning records thousands of years old. Now, we may have a corresponding time marker for millions of years.

    Meanwhile, my search for stardust continues, but now keeping an eye out for new 10-million-year-old samples to further pin down the beryllium-10 anomaly. Stay tuned.

    This research was conducted at the Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf. Dominik Koll received funding from AINSE.

    – ref. An unexpected anomaly was found in the Pacific Ocean – and it could be a global time marker – https://theconversation.com/an-unexpected-anomaly-was-found-in-the-pacific-ocean-and-it-could-be-a-global-time-marker-249695

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray Leads Entire Democratic Caucus in Raising Alarm Over Trump Admin Pushing Illegal Indiscriminate Funding Cuts to NIH, Derailing Lifesaving Research

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    ICYMI: Senator Murray Slams Indirect Cost Rate for NIH as Massive Indiscriminate Cut, Setting Back Progress on Lifesaving Research

    NIH research supported more than 412,000 jobs and fueled nearly $93 billion in new economic activity in Fiscal Year 2023

    Washington state receives $1.29 billion in NIH funding that supports nearly 12,000 jobs and nearly $3 billion in economic activity; STATE BY STATE analysis HERE of total NIH funding, jobs supported, and economic activity supported through NIH research

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee and a senior member and former Chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, led the entire Senate Democratic Caucus in sending a letter to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. expressing serious alarm over the Trump Administration’s recent decisions that threaten to undermine America’s biomedical research infrastructure and set us back generations. The steps the Trump administration has taken would create a serious funding shortfall for research institutions nationwide, threaten to undermine progress on lifesaving scientific advancements, and could cost the U.S. economy billions of dollars and threaten the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of workers. 

    “As the largest public funder of biomedical research in the world, NIH plays a critical role in sustaining the research infrastructure necessary for scientific breakthroughs in cancer treatment, infectious disease prevention, and medical technology innovation, among many others. President Trump has wreaked havoc on the nation’s biomedical research system in recent weeks. In his first several days in office, President Trump imposed a hiring freeze, communications freeze, ban on travel, and cancellation of grant review and advisory panels that are necessary to advance research. While some of these efforts have been reversed, they continue to cause confusion and miscommunication among researchers and recipients of NIH funds,” Senator Murray and the Members wrote.

    Last week, the NIH announced it would set the maximum reimbursement rate for indirect costs to 15 percent—creating a serious funding shortfall for research institutions of all types across the country. This move would dismantle the biomedical research system and stifle the development of new cures for disease. It won’t produce cost savings—it will just shift costs to states who can’t afford to pay the difference. Importantly, this action by the Trump administration is illegal—Congress’ bipartisan Labor-HHS-Education Appropriations Bill prohibits modifications to NIH’s indirect costs.

    “This change to NIH’s indirect cost rate represents an indiscriminate funding cut that will be nothing short of catastrophic for the lifesaving research that patients and families are counting on. The Administration’s new policy means that research will come to a halt, sick kids may not get the treatment they need, and clinical trials may shut down abruptly,” the senators wrote. On Monday, a federal judge in Boston temporarily blocked the NIH rate cut and set a hearing for February 21st.

    The senators’ letter points out that, in addition to the stifling impact on discovering new cures and ripping away treatment from those who need it, changes to NIH policy and communications threaten jobs in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. NIH research supported more than 412,000 jobs and fueled nearly $93 billion in new economic activity in Fiscal Year 2023 and every dollar the NIH invests in research generates almost $2.50 in economic activity. 

    “The Trump Administration has left researchers, universities, and health systems with great uncertainty about whether they can continue to support entire research programs and patient clinical trials across the country. Institutions and grantees nationwide are dealing with an unprecedented external communications “pause” enacted by new leadership at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the lack of transparency regarding the Administration’s illegal funding freeze, and the uncertainty of how new Executive Orders would be applied to their critical work. These actions resulted in NIH freezing grant reviews and cancelling advisory meetings, delaying critical funding that scientists need to continue advancing new cures and treatments. These disruptions do not just slow research—they cost lives,” the senators continued.

    “Our standing as a world leader in funding and producing new medical and scientific innovations has been put at risk by these recent actions from the Trump Administration. We urge you to stop playing political games with the lifesaving work of the NIH and to allow NIH research to continue uninterrupted.”

    The letter was signed by the entire Senate Democratic caucus: in addition to Senator Murray, Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), John Fetterman (D-PA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR) signed onto the letter.

    As a longtime appropriator and former Chair of the Senate HELP Committee, Murray has long fought to boost biomedical research, strengthen public health infrastructure, and make health care more affordable and accessible. Over her years as a senior member of the Appropriations Committee, she has secured billions of dollars in increases for biomedical research at the National Institutes of Health, and during her time as Chair of the HELP Committee she established the new ARPA-H research agency as part of her PREVENT Pandemics Act to advance some of the most cutting-edge research in the field. Senator Murray was also the lead Democratic negotiator of the bipartisan 21st Century Cures Act, which delivered a major federal investment to boost NIH research, among many other investments. 

    A PDF of the letter is available HERE and the full text is below.

    Dear Secretary Kennedy,

    We write to express our serious concern with the Trump Administration’s recent decisions that threaten to undermine the nation’s biomedical research infrastructure and set us back generations. The steps the Trump Administration has taken will create a serious funding shortfall for research institutions nationwide, threaten to undermine progress on lifesaving scientific advancements, could cost the U.S. economy billions of dollars, and threaten the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of workers. 

    As the largest public funder of biomedical research in the world, NIH plays a critical role in sustaining the research infrastructure necessary for scientific breakthroughs in cancer treatment, infectious disease prevention, and medical technology innovation, among many others. President Trump has wreaked havoc on the nation’s biomedical research system in recent weeks. In his first several days in office, President Trump imposed a hiring freeze, communications freeze, ban on travel, and cancellation of grant review and advisory panels that are necessary to advance research. While some of these efforts have been reversed, they continue to cause confusion and miscommunication among researchers and recipients of NIH funds.

    Just last week, NIH announced an illegal plan to cap indirect cost rates that research institutions rely on. In capping indirect cost rates at 15 percent for NIH-funded grants, this policy would cut funding essential for conducting research, such as operating and maintaining laboratories, equipment, and research facilities. This change to NIH’s indirect cost rate represents an indiscriminate funding cut that will be nothing short of catastrophic for the lifesaving research that patients and families are counting on. The Administration’s new policy means that research will come to a halt, sick kids may not get the treatment they need, and clinical trials may shut down abruptly.

    These confusing and harmful policy changes threaten patient safety. The strength of the American research enterprise – recognized as the best in the world – is built on Congress’ bipartisan commitment to supporting essential research infrastructure. This funding, which Congress has long appropriated on a bipartisan basis, fuels groundbreaking medical discoveries and cements the United States’ position as the global leader in biomedical research.

    In addition to the stifling impact on discovering new cures and ripping away treatment from those who need it, changes to NIH policy and communications threaten jobs in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, with everyone from custodians, to research trainees, to scientists facing potential layoffs. NIH research supported more than 412,000 jobs and fueled nearly $93 billion in new economic activity in Fiscal Year 2023. Every dollar the NIH invests in research generates almost $2.50 in economic activity. These reckless policy changes not only threaten biomedical innovation and research, but also the livelihoods of thousands of workers in every state across the nation.

    The Trump Administration has left researchers, universities, and health systems with great uncertainty about whether they can continue to support entire research programs and patient clinical trials across the country. Institutions and grantees nationwide are dealing with an unprecedented external communications “pause” enacted by new leadership at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the lack of transparency regarding the Administration’s illegal funding freeze, and the uncertainty of how new Executive Orders would be applied to their critical work. These actions resulted in NIH freezing grant reviews and cancelling advisory meetings, delaying critical funding that scientists need to continue advancing new cures and treatments. These disruptions do not just slow research – they cost lives.

    The NIH plays a critical role in our nation’s efforts to fund scientific advancements that improve health and save lives. Our standing as a world leader in funding and producing new medical and scientific innovations has been put at risk by these recent actions from the Trump Administration. We urge you to stop playing political games with the lifesaving work of the NIH and to allow NIH research to continue uninterrupted.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pressed by Sen. Murray, McMahon Can’t Name a Single Requirement of Landmark Education Law; Murray Grills McMahon on Trump Plans to Dismantle Education Department, DOGE Access to Sensitive Student Data

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    ***WATCH: Senator Murray questions Education Secretary nominee Linda McMahon***

    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member and former chair of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP), pressed Linda McMahon, President Trump’s nominee to serve as Education Secretary, on how she would approach the job of leading our nation’s Department of Education as President Trump calls the Department a “con job,” says he wants it closed “immediately”, hopes McMahon will “put herself out of a job,” and as Trump, Elon Musk, and DOGE have already begun illegally gutting the Department.

    Senator Murray began by pressing McMahon on whether she will ensure enacted funding gets out to serve students as directed and on DOGE staffers setting up camp at the Department of Education, where they have reportedly fed sensitive personal and financial data from the department into artificial intelligence software. “They’ve already been given access to highly-sensitive student data, and have already started holding back money that Congress decided, on a bipartisan basis, was needed to help our schools and students,” Murray said.

    “We are also hearing, as you know, about an Executive Order coming any day that will seek to dismantle the Department of Education. These are bipartisan laws–you indicated that you understood that… if confirmed, do you commit to getting every dollar we have invested in our students and schools out to them?”

    McMahon responded that the DOGE staffers were “doing an audit,” to which Murray pressed further: “I understand an audit. But when Congress appropriates money, it is the administration’s responsibility to put that out as directed by Congress, who has the power of the purse. So what will you do if the President or Elon Musk tells you not to spend money Congress has appropriated to you?”

    McMahon said at first that the Department would “certainly spend” money Congress passed, before immediately following up with: “But I do think it is worthwhile to take a look at the programs before money goes out the door. It’s much easier—it is much easier to stop the money as it’s going out the door than it is to claw it back.”

    Murray made clear in response: “The process by law is that you look at that, you make recommendations to Congress. …. So, I mean the question really is–who decides how much federal funding public schools get in Seattle, where it’s already been allocated… Elon Musk or Congress?”

    Murray continued her questioning by asking Ms. McMahon about the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), bipartisan legislation to rewrite the No Child Left Behind Act that Murray negotiated while Ranking Member of the Senate HELP Committee. The legislation gave states more flexibility in using federal education funds, eliminated one-size-fits-all mandates, and established strong federal guardrails to hold states and schools accountable. Murray argued that the Department of Education must do more to implement the law—pointing out that less than 42 percent of schools identified for comprehensive support and improvement had a plan that met all requirements of the law, and the recent National Assessment of Educational Progress showed that our lowest-performing students continue to fall furthest behind and exacerbate pre-pandemic achievement gaps.

    “What specific actions will you take to implement the ESSA law?” Murray asked. “Can you name a couple of the requirements that are in that law that you will make sure are implemented?”

    When McMahon declined to name a single requirement of ESSA, Murray pressed on: “Do you know what the requirements are? Do you know about the requirements for targeted support and improvement schools, or the annual report card requirement? Can you name any of the requirements?”

    When McMahon demurred, Murray asked again about any provisions she could name.

    McMahon responded, “No, I want to study it further and get back to you on that.”

    Next, Murray asked about reports that Elon Musk and his DOGE staff have been given access to the personal information of students and their families—including their Social Security numbers, driver’s license numbers, date of birth, and what college they are enrolled in. While DOGE’s access is temporarily paused due to litigation, Murray noted, “There is a real potential for that kind of information to be abused, or for students’ privacy to be placed in jeopardy if the courts end up ruling against the students. And we know that DOGE could use that highly personal information to then target students and target their families or cut off access to Pell Grants for students at a college that someone perceives opposes, maybe, President Trump’s policies.”

    “So I want to ask you, do you believe that DOGE employees should have access to private student data?”

    When McMahon suggested that DOGE employees are operating “under certain restraints,” Murray pressed on: “I have to tell you it is deeply concerning that we have DOGE staffers—we don’t know who they are, they’re not held accountable—getting access to students’ private information. I think that should frighten everyone.”

    A senior member and former chair of the HELP Committee, Senator Murray has championed students and families at every stage of her career—fighting to help ensure every child in America can get a high-quality public education. Among other things, Senator Murray negotiated the bipartisan Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), landmark legislation that she got signed into law, replacing the broken No Child Left Behind Act. As a longtime appropriator, she has successfully fought to boost funding to support students and invest in our nation’s K-12 schools, and she has secured significant increases to the Pell Grant so that it goes further for students pursuing a higher education. Senator Murray also successfully negotiated the FAFSA Simplification Act, bipartisan legislation to reform the financial aid application process, simplify the FAFSA form for students and parents, and significantly expand eligibility for federal aid.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray Statement on Meeting with NIH Nominee Jay Bhattacharya

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    ICYMI: Senator Murray Slams Indirect Cost Rate for NIH as Massive Indiscriminate Cut, Setting Back Progress on Lifesaving Research

    ICYMI: Senator Murray Leads Entire Democratic Caucus in Raising Alarm Over Trump Admin Pushing Illegal Indiscriminate Funding Cuts to NIH, Derailing Lifesaving Research

    ICYMI: In Senate Budget Committee, Republicans Block Murray Amendment Reversing NIH Cuts

    Murray: “Trump and Elon—either through sheer ignorance or a genuine lack of caring—are putting lifesaving research in America on life support… canceling and postponing important NIH grant review and advisory council meetings. Tens of thousands of grants at NIH have already been held up by the Trump administration’s illegal actions—creating an enormous backlog that is already jeopardizing jobs, entire labs, and most importantly, the development of treatments and cures.”

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member and former Chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee (HELP), released the following statement after meeting with Dr. Jayanta “Jay” Bhattacharya, President Donald Trump’s nominee to be Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Murray has been a leading voice speaking out against the Trump administration’s attempts to freeze federal funds and to lower the maximum NIH reimbursement rate for indirect costs, which would create a serious funding shortfall for research institutions of all types across the country, stifling the development of new cures for disease, and ripping treatments away from patients in need.

    “Trump and Elon—either through sheer ignorance or a genuine lack of caring—are putting lifesaving research in America on life support. From their attempts to illegally rip funding away from our research institutions, which would catastrophically derail the development of cures and treatments that sick patients are counting on, to an unprecedented freeze on external communications, to canceling and postponing important NIH grant review and advisory council meetings.

    “Tens of thousands of grants at NIH have already been held up by the Trump administration’s illegal actions—creating an enormous backlog that is already jeopardizing jobs, entire labs, and most importantly, the development of treatments and cures.

    “In our meeting today, I pressed Dr. Bhattacharya on the Trump administration’s reckless attacks on biomedical research and whether DOGE will play a role in deciding which scientists to hire and fire at NIH. I also asked Dr. Bhattacharya to lay out the steps he would take to ensure women’s health research is a priority at NIH, and that it isn’t undermined by this administration’s witch hunt against whatever they decide is allegedly ‘woke’.

    “It is incredibly important that we have a leader at NIH who will stand up for the agency’s role as a world leader in lifesaving research, stand up for science and truth, and stand up to this administration’s brazen attempts to undermine lifesaving work. While I appreciated the opportunity to meet with Dr. Bhattacharya today, I am not any less alarmed by how thoughtless and destructive this administration’s approach to NIH research has been.”

    As a longtime appropriator and former Chair of the Senate HELP Committee, Murray has long fought to boost biomedical research, strengthen public health infrastructure, and make health care more affordable and accessible. Over her years as a senior member of the Appropriations Committee, she has secured billions of dollars in increases for biomedical research at the National Institutes of Health, and during her time as Chair of the HELP Committee she established the new ARPA-H research agency as part of her PREVENT Pandemics Act to advance some of the most cutting-edge research in the field. Senator Murray was also the lead Democratic negotiator of the bipartisan 21st Century Cures Act, which delivered a major federal investment to boost NIH research, among many other investments. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Speaks with Trump’s Nominee for Education Secretary Linda McMahon During Senate HELP Hearing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) spoke with Linda McMahon, President Trump’s nominee to lead the U.S. Department of Education, during her confirmation hearing before the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee. During their conversation, Senator Tuberville and Ms. McMahon spoke about the need to promote skills-based education and workforce development programs, which Senator Tuberville has been a huge advocate for during his time on the HELP Committee.

    During the hearing, Ms. McMahon also reemphasized her support for preserving Title IX and protecting women’s sports. Senator Tuberville introduced a bill, the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act, which would make President Trump’s Executive Order protecting women’s sports permanent.

    The conversation follows yesterday’s announcement that Senator Tuberville will serve as Chairman of the HELP Subcommittee on Education and American Families, where he will continue his work to promote workforce development programs, preserve Title IX protections for girls and young women, and empower parents to make the best educational decisions for their children.

    Read excerpts from Senator Tuberville and Ms. McMahon’s exchange below or watch on Rumble or YouTube. 

    Photo by Jack Gruber, USA TODAY

    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you, Chairman. Ms. McMahon, thanks for being here today, and thanks for wanting to take on this monumental task. You know, I’m a football coach. I’m not a lawyer. I’m not a business guy—taught high school and worked my way up for forty years. This country gives you one thing, and it’s what I taught my kids when I coached—the country doesn’t owe you anything but an opportunity. And that’s the reason this country is the greatest country on the face of the earth. Now when you lose that opportunity—and I’ve lost many times—I’ve gotten my tail back up and gone again. But that’s where you learn it, through education. I’ve been to every state in this country recruiting, going to high schools—except for Alaska—in my forty years. In my forty years of coaching and going into high schools, there’s not been a bigger disappointment than our education system. I’ve seen it decline for forty years. It’s gotten worse. You’re gonna have the task of trying to bring it back. It’s gonna be hard to do because you’re gonna be fought from every side. This is not Democrat, Republican, black, white. It’s not. It’s an American problem. I’ve spent tens of thousands of dollars of my budget when I was coaching in bringing kids in after I test them—they couldn’t read past the sixth grade reading level, but they had 3.5 GPAs when they came to my university. We’re failing. It is a disaster. If you can’t read, you can’t learn. And that’s the one of the first things that we gotta get back to is teaching our kids to read. We got a lot of teachers that don’t teach reading like you and I learned. It’s different. We have all this nonsensical teaching of what we call ‘Common Core’ for math. I still haven’t figured that out. But thanks for wanting to take this on because there’s a lot of obstacles going to be in your way. And so don’t be afraid to make changes. We’ve had a K-12 system for years. It’s a failure. It is an absolute failure. Let’s teach our kids. That’s the only chance they got to survive in this world, which is gonna be very, very competitive. Now, we have things that get in our way and and what’s deterring our kids nowadays. That thing right there [holds up iPHONE]. I had problems coaching with it. I was enemy number one when I told them, ‘Put that damn phone up, don’t bring it to my dressing room because I want you to listen and learn, not be on there listening to music and reading the nonsense you see on there.’ So, you’ve got a lot of obstacles. The one thing I think we need to do is just look at K-12 and [ask] ‘What do we do? How do we get better?’ I’m all for workforce development in the last two years of high school, teaching kids to learn to use their hands. And what’s your thoughts on that? About work in high school—I’m not talking about past high school—I’m talking about the last couple of years.”

    McMAHON: “Well, thank you, Senator. I think when you and I met in your office—and I appreciated that time—I discussed with you that I probably dated myself by saying that when I was in high school, in your senior year in high school, you could take vocational programs, which meant that you went to school the first part of the day, the second part of the day, you could have a job. You could be learning a skill or a trade, and those credits would count towards your education. I think we need to get back to more of that. We are not teaching skills-based learning in our schools anymore. And I think we have to look at our entire education system and say, ‘Four-year college is not for everyone.’ For those particular jobs that require doctors, lawyers, engineers—that require four years, then I think—”

    *protestor interrupts*

    SEN. CASSIDY: “Ms. McMahon, please suspend. The Committee will come to order. Capitol Police are asked to remove the individual from the room.”

    TUBERVILLE: “I don’t think she knows how to read. Or listen.”

    SEN. CASSIDY: “Again, members of the audience are reminded that disruptions will not be permitted while the committee conducts its business. And with that, Ms. McMahon, please resume.”

    McMAHON: “Thank you. So, I think we do have to get back to teaching basics in school, K-12, but to continue on to what we were talking about, we don’t have enough skills-based learning. We don’t have enough internships or apprenticeship programs. I’d also like to see, more dual credits in our high schools, our junior and senior years that would count towards community colleges or other institutes that would get students through college faster if, in fact, that is the plan that they are going to take. So, we have so much that we can do to help our students get prepared to have a good income and a good livelihood. And if they can graduate from high school with some skills-based [learning] already, they can even start a business of their own. They can decide at that particular point, ‘I want to put more money towards my own education. But in the meantime, I am prepared to make a living.’ But I think we have to look at education and say, our vocational and skills-based training is not a default education. It can be something. It can be front and center so that students who are inclined to go in that direction actually should be encouraged to do that. It’s not one-size-fits all.”

    TUBERVILLE: “I would hope too that you would look—my time’s almost up—would look at the number of teachers we have now as compared to administrators. We need teachers. We don’t need people up sitting in the office with their feet propped up. We need people in the classroom teaching these kids. Hold them accountable and put more money in the teachers and less money in administrators. I think we’d be a heck of a lot better off. Thank you. Thank you very much.”

    McMAHON: “Thank you.”

    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP, and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Justified Accord 2025 hones warfighting capabilities, enhances multinational crisis response readiness

    Source: United States Army

    1 / 2 Show Caption + Hide Caption – Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) Brigadier Gen. Paul Koech, chief of training at Kenya Defence Headquarters, formally opens exercise Justified Accord 2025 (JA25) by signing a proclamation at the Humanitarian Peace Support School (HPSS) in Nairobi, Kenya, Feb. 10, 2025. U.S. Army Lt. Col. Trish Basile, chief of the Kenya U.S. Liaison Office (KUSLO), and KDF Col. Jonathan Rungwe, commandant of HPSS, stand together as witnesses during the signing ceremony at HPSS. JA25 is the premier U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) exercise in East Africa, designed to enhance multinational combat readiness, strengthen crisis response capabilities and empower allies and partners in the region. Led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) and hosted in Kenya, Djibouti and Tanzania, JA25 integrates high-intensity training scenarios that sharpen warfighting skills, increase operational reach and enhance the ability to execute complex joint and multinational operations. The exercise runs from Feb. 10–21, 2025. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Solomon Navarro)

    (Photo Credit: Sgt. 1st Class Solomon Navarro)

    VIEW ORIGINAL

    2 / 2 Show Caption + Hide Caption – Kenya Defence Forces Brigadier Paul Koech, chief of training at Kenya Defence Headquarters, delivers remarks during the opening ceremony of exercise Justified Accord 2025 (JA25) at the Humanitarian Peace Support School (HPSS) in Nairobi, Kenya, Feb. 10, 2025. JA25 is the premier U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) exercise in East Africa, designed to enhance multinational combat readiness, strengthen crisis response capabilities and empower allies and partners in the region. Led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) and hosted in Kenya, Djibouti and Tanzania, JA25 integrates high-intensity training scenarios that sharpen warfighting skills, increase operational reach and enhance the ability to execute complex joint and multinational operations. The exercise runs from Feb. 10–21, 2025. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class. Solomon Navarro) VIEW ORIGINAL

    NAIROBI, Kenya — Approximately 1,300 personnel from over 15 countries will participate in Justified Accord 2025, U.S. Africa Command’s largest military exercise in East Africa, from Feb. 10-21, 2025. Hosted in Kenya, Djibouti and Tanzania, this annual exercise strengthens the ability of participating forces to respond to regional security threats, humanitarian crises and peacekeeping missions.

    Led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), this is Kenya’s fourth year in a row hosting the exercise.

    This year features the first-ever night iteration of air-to-ground integration operations where partner countries control Kenyan air assets to provide air support of multinational land forces.

    Also for the first time, U.S. and Kenya military healthcare providers will conduct a real-world veterinary civic action program, to provide essential veterinary services to livestock. This fosters positive relations with local Kenyans and builds readiness when encountering animals on the battlefield.

    1 / 4 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Capt. James Dewy, a physician assistant with the 8th Medical Brigade, a U.S. Army Reserve unit, identifies organs using a sonogram with Kenya Defence Forces medics during Justified Accord 2025 (JA25) at the Counter Insurgency Terrorism and Stability Operations center in Nanyuki, Kenya, Feb. 11, 2025. JA25 is the premier U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) exercise in East Africa, designed to enhance multinational combat readiness, strengthen crisis response capabilities and empower allies and partners in the region. Led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) and hosted in Kenya, Djibouti and Tanzania, JA25 integrates high-intensity training scenarios that sharpen warfighting skills, increase operational reach and enhance the ability to execute complex joint and multinational operations. The exercise runs from Feb. 10–21, 2025. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Josiah Jenkins) VIEW ORIGINAL
    2 / 4 Show Caption + Hide Caption – Kenya Defence Force (KDF) medics joined the medics with 8th Medical Brigade and 1st Battalion 182nd Infantry Regiment, Massachusetts National Guard, to conduct a casualty evacuation rehearsal during exercise Justified Accord 2025 (JA25) at the Counter Insurgency Terrorism and Stability Operations Center in Nanyuki, Kenya, Feb. 12, 2025. JA25 is the premier U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) exercise in East Africa, designed to enhance multinational combat readiness, strengthen crisis response capabilities and empower allies and partners in the region. Led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) and hosted by Kenya, Djibouti and Tanzania, JA25 integrates high-intensity training scenarios that sharpen warfighting skills, increase operational reach and enhance the ability to execute complex joint and multinational operations. The exercise runs from Feb. 10–21, 2025. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Jeremy Brown) VIEW ORIGINAL
    3 / 4 Show Caption + Hide Caption – Kenya Defence Force (KDF) medics joined the medics with 8th Medical Brigade and 1st Battalion 182nd Infantry Regiment, Massachusetts National Guard, to conduct a casualty evacuation rehearsal during exercise Justified Accord 2025 (JA25) at the Counter Insurgency Terrorism and Stability Operations Center in Nanyuki, Kenya, Feb. 12, 2025. JA25 is the premier U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) exercise in East Africa, designed to enhance multinational combat readiness, strengthen crisis response capabilities and empower allies and partners in the region. Led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) and hosted by Kenya, Djibouti and Tanzania, JA25 integrates high-intensity training scenarios that sharpen warfighting skills, increase operational reach and enhance the ability to execute complex joint and multinational operations. The exercise runs from Feb. 10–21, 2025. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Jeremy Brown) VIEW ORIGINAL
    4 / 4 Show Caption + Hide Caption – Kenya Defence Force (KDF) medics joined the medics with 8th Medical Brigade and 1st Battalion 182nd Infantry Regiment, Massachusetts National Guard, to conduct a casualty evacuation rehearsal during exercise Justified Accord 2025 (JA25) at the Counter Insurgency Terrorism and Stability Operations Center in Nanyuki, Kenya, Feb. 12, 2025. JA25 is the premier U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) exercise in East Africa, designed to enhance multinational combat readiness, strengthen crisis response capabilities and empower allies and partners in the region. Led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) and hosted by Kenya, Djibouti and Tanzania, JA25 integrates high-intensity training scenarios that sharpen warfighting skills, increase operational reach and enhance the ability to execute complex joint and multinational operations. The exercise runs from Feb. 10–21, 2025. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Jeremy Brown)
    1 / 2 Show Caption + Hide Caption – Exercise planners representing multiple nations pose for a photo to announce the official start of exercise Justified Accord 2025 (JA25) at the Humanitarian Peace Support School in Nairobi, Kenya, Feb. 10, 2025. JA25 is the premier U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) exercise in East Africa, designed to enhance multinational combat readiness, strengthen crisis response capabilities and empower allies and partners in the region. Led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) and hosted in Kenya, Djibouti and Tanzania, JA25 integrates high-intensity training scenarios that sharpen warfighting skills, increase operational reach and enhance the ability to execute complex joint and multinational operations. The exercise runs from Feb. 10–21, 2025. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Solomon Navarro)
    2 / 2 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Lt. Col. Trish Basile, Chief of the Kenya United States Liaison Office (KUSLO), and Col. Jonathan Rungwe, Commandant of the Humanitarian Peace Support School (HPSS), welcome a Swiss service member with a handshake during the opening ceremony of Exercise Justified Accord 2025 (JA25) at HPSS in Nairobi, Kenya, Feb. 10, 2025. JA25 is the premier U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) exercise in East Africa, designed to enhance multinational combat readiness, strengthen crisis response capabilities and empower allies and partners in the region. Led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) and hosted in Kenya, Djibouti and Tanzania, JA25 integrates high-intensity training scenarios that sharpen warfighting skills, increase operational reach and enhance the ability to execute complex joint and multinational operations. The exercise runs from Feb. 10–21, 2025. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army photo Sgt. 1st Class Solomon Navarro) VIEW ORIGINAL

    JA25 reinforces the commitment of the U.S. and its partners to joint military readiness, crisis response and multinational cooperation.

    “It’s a great honor to take part in exercise Justified Accord 2025. We give much appreciation to the U.S. for their partnership in training and the exchange of knowledge and skills,” said KDF Brigadier William Kamwoiro, commander of the 2nd Brigade and KDF exercise director. “The training in small team tactics, optics, as well as combat medics will serve to ensure seamless cooperation and effective support in future joint tasks and duties.”

    For photos, videos and articles from the exercise, please visit the Justified Accord DVIDS feature page and the Kenyan Ministry of Defence website.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Senator Peters Takes to Senate Floor to Oppose Nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for Secretary of Health and Human Services

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) spoke on the Senate floor in opposition to the nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to serve as Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Peters underscored his concerns over Kennedy’s severe lack of qualifications for the critical position, given the fact that, if confirmed, Kennedy would be tasked with managing federal programs that millions of Americans depend on every day, including Medicare and Medicaid, and agencies such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other agencies that prepare for and respond to public health and medical emergencies. Following his remarks, Peters voted against Kennedy’s nomination.
    “Throughout his entire nomination process, it has become clear that Mr. Kennedy is wholly unprepared to lead this Department,” said Senator Peters. “Mr. Kennedy’s lack of experience and basic understanding of our nation’s health care system is, to say the least, extremely alarming. We cannot confirm a nominee who doesn’t even know the most basic answers about programs that he’s actually in charge of administering.” 
    Peters continued, “We need a Secretary who will protect the health of Americans. Robert Kennedy is not that Secretary. And if he is confirmed to lead the Department of Health and Human Services, the American people will ultimately pay the price with their health.”

    To watch a video clip of Senator Peters’ remarks, click here.
    During his remarks, Peters highlighted concerns that Michiganders from across the state shared with his office over Kennedy’s nomination:
    “Since Mr. Kennedy was nominated to lead HHS, I’ve heard from thousands of my constituents from every corner of Michigan, from densely populated cities to some of the most rural areas in our state, who are deeply concerned about how his plans for the department would impact families. For example, I’ve heard from countless folks about the rising cost of health care that is squeezing Michigan families’ budgets. Health care prices are rising faster than inflation, making it even harder for people to get the care that they need.
    “I’ve heard from a constituent who has operated a food pantry in her community for 13 years. She worries about what will happen to the people that she serves if they do not have access to the food security programs made possible by HHS.
    “I received a letter from a social worker in Michigan who helped students who were traumatized by the horrific shootings at Oxford High School in Michigan and Michigan State University. She is worried that, without proper mental health resources, Americans who have been impacted by senseless gun violence, whether at school, at their places of worship, at night clubs, or at shopping malls, they will grieve and struggle alone.
    “A Michigan scientist who specializes in CDC research contacted my office. They fear that if Mr. Kennedy is confirmed, it could impact their ability, and the ability of thousands of researchers all across our country, to conduct medical research that is literally saving lives.
    “A concerned mother wrote me and my office that when she was 38 weeks pregnant, she told me that Mr. Kennedy’s long history of spreading dangerous medical disinformation and undermining public health initiatives is directly at odds with how she plans to keep her future child from infectious disease.
    “I’ve even heard from parents who are concerned about Mr. Kennedy’s narrative suggesting vaccines cause autism. Because he has given credibility to these lies, and questioned facts from scientists and doctors, these parents worry that their children will not receive the most basic, routine care that they deserve.   
    “I also heard from a constituent who was born before the polio vaccine was approved. She said that, to this day, she can still remember the relief on her mother’s face when the polio vaccine became available. This moment has stuck with her throughout her 30-year career as a registered nurse, where she has made it her life’s work to study and safely administer vaccines in her community.” 
    “And let’s be clear. Let’s be absolutely clear. Vaccines are scientifically proven to protect against diseases like chickenpox, polio, influenza, and yes, COVID-19.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: From homes to hospitals, Canada’s food environments need reform

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Sara F.L. Kirk, Professor of Health Promotion; Scientific Director of the Healthy Populations Institute, Dalhousie University

    Healthy eating sounds deceptively simple — just eat more fruits and vegetables and avoid junk food, right? However, healthy eating really isn’t easy.

    A new report illustrates how ubiquitous unhealthy foods are, how aggressively they are promoted and how hard it is to access healthy foods in places we spend our time.

    We are part of a team of 18 nutrition and food policy experts from across Canada who looked at research from the past five years to expose the environmental factors that influence what people in Canada buy and eat. We explored many different factors, like the quality of food, food marketing practices and what foods are available in places like hospitals, schools and grocery stores.

    The report is part of an international network called INFORMAS (International Network for Food and Obesity/Non-communicable Diseases (NCDs) Research, Monitoring and Action Support). Our findings reinforce that, from homes to hospitals, Canada’s food supply needs reform.

    What we see is what we get

    Unhealthy food is everywhere, and that makes it hard to avoid: what we see is what we get. Our report found that most packaged foods in grocery stores are unhealthy. In fact, two-thirds of them were high in salt, sugar or saturated fat. Only 12 per cent were low in these nutrients.

    Unhealthy foods are readily available for purchase. One study showed that children in Ottawa had, on average, 19 places to purchase foods within one kilometre of their school. In Vancouver, that number was as high as 45.

    In-store environments also thwart healthy purchases: 50 per cent of stores had “power walls” of candy, snacks and sugary drinks, tempting consumers at the checkout, while only around one in five stores operated a junk-free checkout. And nearly all hospital cafeterias and recreation centre vending machines sold sugary drinks.

    Unhealthy foods are also heavily marketed, particularly to children. One study estimated that children aged six to 11 see more than 4,000 food ads on their digital devices each year, while older children see twice that number. Around 90 per cent of the ads that children saw on their digital devices were deemed less healthy based on their sugar, sodium and saturated fat content.

    A closer look at marketing on five food product categories in the INFORMAS Canada report found that one-third of products carried marketing targeting to children.

    For example, almost 46 per cent of breakfast cereals used marketing techniques that made products look fun or cool, or used cartoon characters and celebrities, to entice young consumers. More than 90 per cent of products using these techniques were unhealthy. Of 75 per cent of foods that had some sort of health or nutrition claim on their packaging highlighting healthy attributes of products, 45 per cent of these products were also high in salt, sugar or saturated fat.

    Unhealthy foods are big, cheap and easy

    Our report illustrates how, in many ways, the cards are stacked against us in terms of healthy eating. The food industry, where power is often concentrated within the hands of a few large, multinational companies, continues to create and market unhealthy foods, despite stated commitments to do better.

    With unhealthy foods so available and tempting, it’s no surprise that many Canadians struggle to eat according to Canada’s Food Guide.

    Our unhealthy food environments are making us sick and we all pay the price. Unhealthy eating has been estimated to cost more than $15.8 billion, including direct healthcare costs of $5.9 billion. With unhealthy eating a leading risk for death and the second leading risk for disability in Canada, there is a strong moral and economic imperative for action to improve food environments.

    Creating healthier food environments

    It doesn’t have to be this way. In addition to providing benchmarking data, our report offers a road map for policymakers, industry leaders and advocates to collaborate in creating healthier, more equitable food environments for all Canadians.

    Canada can also draw inspiration from global leaders in food policy like Chile and Mexico. Both countries have introduced bold front-of-package warning labels for foods high in sugar, sodium or saturated fats, combined with restrictions on marketing unhealthy products to children and taxes on unhealthy foods.

    Canada will follow suit with front-of-package labels in January 2026, but policy change in these others areas is lacking.



    Read more:
    Front-of-package food labels: A path to healthier choices

    Mexico has implemented front-of-package food label regulations flagging unhealthy foods. Canada will follow suit in 2026.
    (Shutterstock)

    Taxes on sugary drinks already exist in more than 45 countries, with the United Kingdom recently seeing reductions in sugar consumption after a sugary drink tax was implemented. Canada, unfortunately, is lagging behind, with Newfoundland & Labrador the only province with a tax on sugary drinks.

    As Canada’s national school food policy rolls out, there are opportunities to protect school food from vested interests. These actions need to be extended to other food environments — our homes, hospitals and grocery stores.

    With the threat of tariffs being imposed by the United States and potentially creating major challenges for food affordability, more Canadians are looking for a food supply that is made in Canada. Creating healthier food environments and food systems takes a strong commitment from leaders at all levels (federal, provincial, territorial and municipal).

    Our benchmarking report can help create a nutrition transition that nourishes our population and supports our healthy food producers, farmers and fisheries. This report makes the case for improving our food environments and shows the way to a healthier future for all Canadians.

    Sara F.L. Kirk has received funding from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Public Health Agency of Canada, Research Nova Scotia and Dalhousie University Office of Advancement. She is a co-author on the report being discussed in this article.

    Lana Vanderlee receives funding from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, the US National Institutes of Health, the Fonds de recherche du Québec – Santé and has received funds from Health Canada. She is currently supported by a Canada Research Chair in Healthy Food Policy (Tier 2).

    – ref. From homes to hospitals, Canada’s food environments need reform – https://theconversation.com/from-homes-to-hospitals-canadas-food-environments-need-reform-249540

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: King Cites “Unconscionable” Shortfall in Opioid, Fentanyl Crackdown at Southern Border

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), U.S. Senator Angus King raised several urgent questions with Navy Admiral Alvin Holsey, the Commander of United States Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), and Air Force General Gregory Guillot, Commander of United States Northern Command (NORTHCOM). Senator King, pushed the military officials about the lack of military presence and resources in the Caribbean to interdict illegal drug shipments — in addition to in the Arctic to counter Russian and Chinese aggression — as America faces serious threats from the north and south.

    Senator King began his line of questioning by pressing Admiral Holsey on why the military and intelligence agencies are only able to interdict a quarter of illegal drug shipments coming into the United States — a rate he’s been critical of across multiple administrations. In the exchange, he mentioned the deathly toll drugs like fentanyl are taking on Maine people.

    “Admiral, every year when we have this hearing I talk to the SOUTHCOM commander about the fact that we have intelligence reports about drug shipments coming to the U.S. in the maritime domain and we have the assets to interdict 25% of them. To me, that is straight-up unconscionable. There are people dying in my state from fentanyl overdoses and drug overdoses. We are not meeting because of a lack of allocation of assets the drug shipments that we know about. That is what is so objectionable about this. Is that percentage still reasonable? 75% is not being interdicted that we know of,” asked Senator King.

    “About 10 to 20% is what we can get a hold of,” replied Admiral Holsey. 

    “And that is because of a lack of assets? Is that correct? We don’t have enough boats, ships,” followed up Senator King.

    “Yes. Primarily a lack of assets, a lack of resources,” said Admiral Holsey.

    “I would argue again that this is a misallocation of recourses. Here is an active attack on America that is killing our citizens, and we don’t have enough ships whether it is the Coast Guard or Navy in the region to interdict these drug shipments. I think that is a dereliction of duty, not of you, but of the entire policy apparatus. This goes back three, four administrations. It is one that I hope that this administration will pay some attention to and correct,” responded Senator King.

    Later in the hearing, Senator King, Co-Chair of the U.S. Senate Arctic Caucus, spoke to the United States’ position as an Arctic nation, but pointed out that America’s capabilities in the High North are inadequate when compared to adversaries like Russia and China who are better equipped with more bases and ships like icebreakers. NORTHCOM Commander General Guillot agreed with King that the nation’s presence in the Arctic is “woeful.”

    “I was at a conference years ago on the arctic and there was a huge delegation from China and I said, what is China’s interest. They said we are a near arctic nation.  My response was Maine is a near Caribbean state. They are very active in increasing their actions. Where are we? Do we have a port facility in the Arctic? Secondly, give us a breakdown of the status of icebreakers. We are woefully inadequate in terms of icebreakers, particular for the use of the Northwest Passage,” said Senator King.

    “I was going to use the same word. We are in a woeful situation with icebreakers. The coast guard is working very hard to increase that for us. But at this time, we are completely outnumbered with icebreakers,” agreed General Guillot. 

    “But they are building one new icebreaker but it is merely a replacement for the ancient one that is about to go out of service. Is that correct,” asked Senator King.

    “It is,” replied General Guillot. 

    “So there is no net gain in icebreakers,” questioned Senator King.

    “That’s right,” responded General Guillot.

    “And the icebreakers we have commute between the Arctic and Antarctic. Is that not correct,” asked Senator King.

    “That is correct,” said General Guillot.

    “How many icebreakers do the Russians have in the Arctic,” Senator King again asked.

    “Between 20 and 40,” said General Guillot.

    “20 and 40 to less than one. I would argue that the icebreakers are the essential infrastructure of the Arctic region and to say we are inadequate and behind where we should be is an understatement,” said Senator King.     

    After the end of Senator King’s line of questioning, Senator Roger Wicker (R-MS), the Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, shared bipartisan support for securing new icebreakers.

    “Senator King, let me just say I think you will find a lot of bipartisan support both in the Congress and in the Administration for a substantial increase quickly in the number of icebreakers,” said Chairman Wicker.

    “I believe that is the case; I appreciate that,” replied Senator King.

    As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and Select Senate Committee on Intelligence, Senator King has previously supported legislation to combat illicit drug use and decrease overdoses. He is a cosponsor of the Synthetics Trafficking and Overdose Prevention Act, bipartisan legislation that is designed to stop dangerous synthetic drugs like fentanyl and carfentanil from being shipped through our borders. Senator King also cosponsored the INTERDICT Act, bipartisan legislation to help halt the flow of illicit fentanyl from Mexico, China and other nations around the world into the United States. During an open hearing of the Select Senate Intelligence Committee last year, Senator King pressed Avril Haines, the former Director of National Intelligence and Christopher Wray, the former Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), about what the intelligence community is doing to halt the flow of illicit drugs — including fentanyl — from Mexico, China and other nations into the United States. The most recently-passed National Defense Authorization Act includes multiple King-led provisions and funding authorizations addressing the Department’s mission to address the flow of illicit drugs and the criminal organizations behind that flow into our country. Earlier today, he introduced the bipartisan HALT Fentanyl Act to crack down on illegal fentanyl trafficking.

    The Co-Chair of the U.S. Senate Arctic Caucus, Senator King is an advocate for Maine and America’s interests in the North Atlantic and Arctic region. Along with Caucus co-chair Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), King introduced the Arctic Commitment Act  in 2022 to improve America’s posture and opportunities in the Arctic. He has been calling for the appointment of an Arctic Ambassador since 2015, and pushed for the confirmation of the first Arctic Ambassador last year. King also laid out the challenges and opportunities of a warming arctic in an article in the Wilson Quarterly, and in this year’s National Defense Authorization Act, he successfully secured the inclusion of provisions including funding authorizations for University of Maine to increase America’s activity and opportunities in the Far North.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: b1BANK Announces Senna Bayasgalan as Chief Marketing Officer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BATON ROUGE, La., Feb. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — b1BANK, announces the appointment of Senna Bayasgalan as chief marketing officer. Bayasgalan will lead brand and marketing technology initiatives to support the banks’ growth and deepen client relationships. Bayasgalan has over 16 years of experience in marketing leadership, international brand building, communications and customer acquisition across private capital, technology and media industries. 

    “We are diligent about the culture we are building, and as a result, fortunate to be able to attract top talent from across the nation,” said Jude Melville, chairman and CEO, b1BANK. “We have a good and genuine story, and with more effective use of technology-enabled branding and distribution tools, I am confident that story has the potential to resonate deeply with a larger audience. Senna’s diverse experience leading marketing campaigns across multiple lines of business will accelerate our continued evolution.” 

    Throughout her career she has skillfully combined data and storytelling to launch international campaigns, build online communities and develop customer retention strategies to grow the brands she has served.  

    “I was instantly drawn to b1BANK’s unique story and its unwavering commitment to serving businesses and local communities,” said Bayasgalan. “I am excited to partner with the talented team at b1 to elevate the brand, foster innovation and help our clients achieve their goals.” 

    Bayasgalan is a founding board member of Asians in Advertising, a mentor for APIA Scholars, Women We Create and 3AF, and a frequent guest lecturer at Georgetown University and other institutions. She earned a Bachelor of Liberal Arts from the University of Texas at Austin. 

    About Business First Bancshares, Inc. 
    As of Dec. 31, 2024, Business First Bancshares, Inc., (Nasdaq: BFST) through its banking subsidiary b1BANK, had $7.9 billion in assets, $6.9 billion in assets under management through b1BANK’s affiliate Smith Shellnut Wilson, LLC (SSW) (excludes $0.9 billion of b1BANK assets managed by SSW) and operates Banking Centers and Loan Production Offices in markets across Louisiana and Texas providing commercial and personal banking products and services. Commercial banking services include commercial loans and letters of credit, working capital lines and equipment financing, and treasury management services. b1BANK was awarded #1 Best-In-State Bank, Louisiana, by Forbes and Statista, and is a multiyear winner of American Banker’s “Best Banks to Work For.” Visit b1BANK.com for more information. 

    Misty Albrecht
    b1BANK
    225.286.7879
    Misty.Albrecht@b1BANK.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/82d7ef43-d21e-464d-9b89-7653e36ab81c

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: NZ depends on the rules-based world Trump is dismantling – why the silence?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alexander Gillespie, Professor of Law, University of Waikato

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ 2023 strategic foreign policy assessment, “Navigating a shifting world”, accurately foresaw a more uncertain and complex time ahead for New Zealand. But already it feels out of date.

    The Trump administration’s extreme disruption of the international order (which New Zealand helped construct) is going further and faster than foreseen in the assessment. Were another nation responsible, the government would have been quick to condemn it.

    But New Zealand has so far been largely mute while Trump has quit the World Health Organization and the Paris Climate Accord, attacked foreign assistance programs and withdrawn funding from key United Nations organisations.

    Had Russia or China threatened the annexation or acquisition of Canada, Panama and Greenland, New Zealand would have reacted strongly. But it has said nothing substantive.

    The United States still belongs to the World Trade Organization and various regional trade agreements. But Trump’s use of tariffs threatens havoc throughout the multilateral trade system.

    Similarly, Trump has not quit the International Court of Justice. But his proposal to remove two million Palestinians from Gaza amounts to an unequivocal rejection of the court’s recent ruling on Israeli policies and practices in the Occupied Territories – as well as international law.

    On all these fronts, New Zealand has preferred not to make a stand.

    The coming Russia-Ukraine test

    While other countries have been quick to criticise Trump’s Gaza plan, New Zealand has opted not to comment until greater clarity is available, other than to reiterate its support for a two-state solution for Palestine.

    When Trump imposed sanctions on the International Criminal Court, New Zealand (along with Australia and Japan) failed to join a statement from 79 other countries expressing unwavering support for the court.

    The next likely test will be Trump’s attempt to broker a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine. While the goal is undoubtedly worthy, the question will be at what cost.

    If the price is ignoring the UN Charter, and if European supporters of Ukraine find the illegal annexations of its sovereign territory unpalatable, New Zealand will face a stark choice.

    For Australia, with its special trade relationship with the US and membership of the AUKUS security pact, this may be simple politics. For New Zealand, without a special free trade agreement with the US, frozen out of ANZUS and not part of AUKUS, the equation is more complex.

    Discord in the Pacific

    Last year, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said New Zealand must “stand up for this international rules-based system that has actually served New Zealand incredibly well”. Quietly sitting down will not be an option forever.

    Furthermore, all this is happening against the backdrop of New Zealand’s apparently waning influence in its own back yard, the South Pacific.

    While China seeks to expand its own influence, cuts and possible retrenchment in New Zealand’s aid budget suggest little appetite for tangible counteraction.

    The loss of influence was first apparent with Kiribati, which has steered towards a much closer relationship with China since 2022. More recently, China has made inroads into other Pacific countries, including the Solomons and East Timor, working in an increasingly grey zone with support for civilian and military security.

    But the recent fracture with the Cook Islands takes things to a new level.

    Struggling to find a voice

    While no longer a dependency, the Cooks’ free association agreement with New Zealand gives its people immense benefits, including citizenship and the right to work and live in New Zealand.

    In return, the Cooks undertakes to consult over foreign affairs matters, including any policy or initiative that might affect the interests of the other signatory.

    But the development of a somewhat opaque “comprehensive strategic partnership” with China blindsided New Zealand, and has strained what is meant to be a good-faith relationship. Again, however, New Zealand has struggled to find its voice.

    If it speaks too loudly, it risks further undermining that special Pacific relationship, as well as irritating its largest trade partner, China. If it speaks too softly, the respect and influence the country deserves will fade.

    New Zealand’s vaunted independent foreign policy is a fine ideal and has been a workable mechanism to navigate the challenges facing a small trading nation reliant on a rules-based global order.

    This has worked well for the past few decades. But as the old world order erodes, losing its voice for fear of offending bigger powers cannot become the country’s default position.

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

    – ref. NZ depends on the rules-based world Trump is dismantling – why the silence? – https://theconversation.com/nz-depends-on-the-rules-based-world-trump-is-dismantling-why-the-silence-249857

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –