NewzIntel.com

Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Edinburgh joins Core Cities UK

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    Edinburgh has become the 12th member of partnership-led organisation with a 30 year track record of implementing policy change across the UK.

    Edinburgh has joined Core Cities UK, becoming the organisation’s 12th member city, its third national capital, and expanding the UK-wide reach of the group as it prepares to celebrate its 30th birthday later this year.

    Edinburgh will join Belfast, Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Glasgow, Leeds, Liverpool, Manchester, Newcastle, Nottingham and Sheffield to become a member of an organisation that has a 30 year track record of implementing policy change across the UK.

    Edinburgh is one of the most economically successful places in the country but, like other Core Cities, has areas of the city where overall health, earning potential and life expectancy fall well below national averages.

    The Scottish capital will play a key role in the group’s thinking around inclusive economic growth and other members hope to learn from its development of a tourism levy, which will come into effect in Edinburgh next Summer.

    Cllr Jane Meagher, Leader of the City of Edinburgh Council, said:

    I’m delighted that we’ve joined Core Cities UK and look forward to sharing our knowledge, ideas and experiences with other member cities.

    Edinburgh continues to perform well as a place to live, work, visit and invest in, but we still face many of the same urban challenges as our partners. Growing populations are creating ever increasing demand for homes, public services and infrastructure, while many of our residents are struggling with the cost of living – meaning poverty, homelessness and economic inactivity remain the biggest challenges of our time.

    From my early discussions with the Chair and other member cities, it’s been clear how much we have in common – both in terms of these challenges, but also our priorities. I have no doubt that this collaboration will help us to solve our collective problems while growing more sustainably for the benefit of all of our residents.

    Cllr James Lewis, Chair of Core Cities UK and Leader of Leeds City Council, added:

    Edinburgh joining us is an historic moment for Core Cities and solidifies our position as the authoritative voice of urban Britain. We have always argued that cities have certain things in common, no matter which nation – either within the UK or abroad – they are situated in and we look forward to getting Edinburgh’s unique perspective on our policy discussions.

    Core Cities’ mission is to unlock the full potential of our great city regions to create a stronger, fairer economy and society. With the addition of Edinburgh, Core Cities will generate more than 25 per cent of the economy and will be home to more than 22 million people.

    Core Cities UK is a leading voice in policy around devolution and decentralisation and its reports with organisations including OECD and RSA are used as benchmarks within the sector. It also has strong private sector relationships with a variety of companies including Landsec and Lloyds Banking Group and works closely with the English Combined Authority Mayors as well as local Government in London.

    Founded by a number of English councils in 1995, it is headquartered in Manchester and will celebrate its 30th anniversary this summer.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: We must strengthen international commitments to protect aid workers: UK statement at the UN Security Council

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    We must strengthen international commitments to protect aid workers: UK statement at the UN Security Council

    Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward, UK Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on the protection of civilians in armed conflict.

    We welcome this session on implementing UNSCR2730. 

    I think it is critical that the Council maintains momentum on the safety, security and well-being of aid workers. 

    And I pay tribute to those on the frontline and extend, again, my condolences to the families and friends of those who have lost their lives.

    In the first 3 months of 2025, the Aid Worker Security Database has already recorded 64 deaths, 36 injuries and 8 kidnappings. 

    The majority were local or national aid workers. 

    The most dangerous place to deliver humanitarian assistance is Gaza, with over 400 aid workers reportedly killed since the beginning of the conflict. 

    That is followed by Sudan and South Sudan. 

    We are also concerned about the aid workers detained by the Houthis in Yemen and call for their release. 

    And we stress the need for the safety of aid workers in Myanmar, who are bringing essential responses for the victims of the devastating earthquake.

    At the one-year anniversary of the attack on a World Central Kitchen convoy in Gaza, which killed seven aid workers, including three British citizens, we continue to call for the conclusion of the Military Advocate General’s consideration of the incident, including determining whether criminal proceedings should be initiated. 

    Tragically, just last week, the Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) reported that eight of its medics were killed in Gaza, alongside first responders and a UN aid worker. 

    We call for a thorough and swift investigation with meaningful accountability for those responsible. 

    PRCS medic Asaad Al-Nasasra is still missing and we call on Israel to support the search for him. 

    Three actions are essential.

    First, all parties to a conflict must comply with International Humanitarian Law. 

    This includes compliance with obligations relating to the passage of humanitarian supplies, equipment and personnel, and respecting and protecting aid workers. 

    States must investigate attacks on aid workers and hold perpetrators to account. 

    Effective, trusted deconfliction mechanisms must be set up and used.

    Second, we must strengthen international commitments to protect aid workers. 

    The UK is proud to be part of the Australian–led Ministers Group to develop a political declaration to galvanise collective action to protect aid workers. 

    And we encourage others to join and demonstrate unity to drive action beyond the Council that enhances protection for aid workers.

    Third, we must do all we can to support humanitarian organisations, including local organisations, to work safely. 

    Actors who play a fundamental role in aid worker safety face operational risks due to inadequate funding. 

    The UK supports organisations, such as the Aid Worker Security Database and INSO, who play a central role in aid worker security. 

    We urge others to consider supporting fundamental ‘enabler’ organisations.

    In conclusion, President, the UK remains steadfast in our commitment to allowing aid workers to do their job in safety and preventing violence against aid workers from becoming the new normal.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Another chance to win £1,000 off your Council Tax bill

    Source: City of Derby

    Derby residents are getting another chance to win £1000 off their Council Tax bill if they sign up for paperless billing.

    Five winners are now celebrating after their names were drawn at random from hundreds of successful entries in a recent prize draw that closed in February.

    Venkata Inguva from Mickleover won first prize of a £1000 off his Council Tax bill for the 2025/26 year. Four runner-up prizes of up to £500 went to Katrina Borrington of Huntingdon Green, Megan Gregory of Alvaston, Sam Inziria of Chellaston and Yasmin Ihugba of Chaddesden.

    Electronic billing is another way to receive your Council Tax bill. Instead of getting a paper bill in the post, you can view your bill online. Those who make the switch by 30 April 2025 will be entered in to a new prize draw.

    The first prize is £1000 off your Council Tax bill for the 2025/26 year.

    The Council’s secure online portal lets you check your Council Tax around the clock. Day or night, seven days a week, you can log in to view your bill, manage your Direct Debit, make a payment arrangement, or keep your contact details up to date.

    To be in with a chance to win, you need first to register for myAccount. As soon as your account is activated, you can select the electronic billing option.

    How to enter

    • Sign in or Register to myAccount
    • Select the option to “Manage Council Tax and Benefits”
    • Then select “Manage Your Services”
    • If you’re already subscribed to the Council Tax online service, choose “Show Account Details” then select the “Paperless Ebilling Sign Up” option.
    • If you haven’t subscribed to the Council Tax online service before, choose “Add Service” and then “Council Tax”. You will need to enter your 9-digit Council Tax reference number (you can find this on your Council Tax bill) and answer a few questions about your bill to confirm your identity.
    • Once you’ve linked your Council Tax account you’ll be asked “Would you like to go Paperless?” Follow the link to complete your e-billing sign up.
    • That’s it! If you’re already registered for Ebilling, you’re automatically entered!

    Councillor Hardyal Dhindsa, Cabinet Member for Digital and Organisational Transformation, said:

    I’d like to congratulate our winners. The previous prize draw helped to raise awareness that we’re a digital council and encouraged a significant number of residents sign up to eBilling. This will save time for them and keep costs down and reduce paper waste for us.

    I’m thrilled to confirm that we’re running the competition again so would encourage residents to sign up for eBilling now, if they haven’t already, to be in with a chance of winning £1000 off their Council Tax.

    Terms and Conditions apply.  See the prize draw details

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New research highlights transformative impact of internet connectivity in temporary accommodation

    Source: City of Coventry

    An evaluation report exploring the critical need for internet access for people living in temporary accommodation has been published today.

    It follows a pilot project delivered by the technology charity Jangala in partnership with Virgin Media O2, Coventry City Council’s #CovConnects initiative, and Good Things Foundation, which supported people living in temporary homes in Coventry with internet connectivity.

    The research highlights the impact that being online can have on emotional and mental wellbeing, personal empowerment, and access to essential services. For people living in temporary accommodation, connectivity can be poor quality or non-existent, despite a critical need to be online. Residents are penalised if they do not bid weekly for permanent housing but are often on low incomes and cannot install internet in their temporary homes.

    At the heart of the research is the role of Jangala’s Get Box, a portable internet connectivity device designed to provide reliable internet access to those who need it most. By swiftly enabling individuals in temporary accommodation to get online, Get Box plays a crucial role in bridging the digital divide. It opens doors to essential services, learning opportunities, and vital social support networks, offering a lifeline to people facing unstable living conditions and a range of personal challenges. These include surviving domestic abuse, recent arrival to the UK and mental illness.

    Jackie* who is a survivor of domestic abuse explains:

    “If I didn’t have music I wouldn’t go to sleep at night. It’s made me feel, like, a little bit more comfortable. It calms me down as well. The Get Box has done a lot for me.”

    The initiative forms part of a broader programme funded by Virgin Media O2, which aims to distribute 5,000 Get Boxes across the UK. The programme has deployed more than 2,000 devices already to partners. Get Boxes are having a real and measurable impact in communities struggling with digital exclusion by offering a vital lifeline to connectivity when it is needed.

    The findings of the research emphasise the importance of increased data allowances in driving social impact and addresses the immediate connectivity needs of individuals. It also lays the groundwork for long-term positive change by demonstrating the far-reaching benefits of easy-to-use, scalable solutions in digital inclusion.

    Cllr Richard Brown, Cabinet Member for Strategic Finance and Resources at Coventry City Council said: “This project has been a real success and has made a huge difference to the lives of some of our most vulnerable residents. I look forward to building on success mentioned in the report so we can continue to tackle the digital divide in Coventry and ensure that all our residents, regardless of background and circumstance, can get online and access the digital world.”
     

    Rich Thanki, Managing Director at Jangala said: “This research vividly highlights the critical role that internet access plays in so many aspects of welfare. We’re thrilled that our Get Box technology, with incredible support from VMO2 and Coventry Council, has been able to positively impact the lives of such a diverse range of digitally-excluded people.”

    Nicola Green, Chief Communications and Corporate Affairs Officer at Virgin Media O2 said: “We’re proud that Virgin Media O2’s partnership with Jangala is providing a lifeline to people in need, helping them to get online and access essential online services from applying for accommodation to booking medical appointments or building their skills via online training course, and is helping them to stay in touch with loved ones.”

    Helen Milner OBE, Group CEO, Good Things Foundation, said  “Access to the internet is life-changing, providing a crucial link to essential services, education, and employment. Our partnership with Jangala, Virgin Media O2, and Coventry Council is helping ensure people in temporary accommodation are not left behind in the digital world. By providing reliable connectivity, we are giving individuals and families the opportunity to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope. Together we can help  fix the digital divide.”

    For more information, access the full research evaluation report here: https://www.janga.la/digital-lifelines

    *names have been changed to protect anonymity

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Elena Parent and Rick Williams Applaud the Final Passage of Senate Bill 241

    Source: US State of Georgia

    ATLANTA (April 2, 2025) — On Monday, Senate Bill 241 achieved final passage in the House with bipartisan support. The measure would allow for organic human reduction as a means of disposing of deceased human bodies to those who are licensed funeral directors or establishments, embalmers and crematories.

    “I am thrilled that SB 241 passed the House and that families will have a new way to remember their loved ones after they’ve passed,” said Sen. Elena Parent (D–Atlanta). Many constituents have asked for the option to choose the environmentally conscious natural human reduction process for themselves and their loved ones. I worked with Sen. Rick Williams and Cy Hume with A.S Turner Funeral Home to bring this legislation to Georgia. This bill supports the funeral industry and exemplifies how businesses, government and regular citizens can work together to create opportunities and solutions. I look forward to working with Governor Kemp to get SB 241 signed into law so Georgians will have more choice in selecting a meaningful resting place for their loved ones.”

    “Other states, like Colorado, have reported cases of decomposing human remains being abandoned in their facilities, left to the elements instead of receiving proper care,” said Sen. Rick Williams (R–Milledgeville). “SB 241 enshrines organic human reduction in Georgia’s legal code to ensure that the industry has the necessary guard rails to protect the remains of those who have passed on. I’m thankful to Sen. Parent for her support on this bill, and I will continue to champion organic human reduction.”

    “I’m grateful to Sen. Elena Parent and Sen. Rick Williams for their leadership and dedication in working with me and A.S. Turner & Son to bring this legislation forward,” said Cy Hume, A.S. Turner & Son’s Funeral Home and Crematory President and CEO. “Legalizing the natural organic reduction process gives families a new, eco-friendly alternative to burial and cremation, one that not only honors their loved ones but also supports sustainability in our communities.”

    SB 241 can be found here.

    # # # #

    Sen. Elena Parent serves as Chairwoman of the Senate Democratic Caucus. She represents the 44th Senate District which includes portions of DeKalb and Clayton County. She may be reached at her office at (404) 656-5109 or by email at elena.parent@senate.ga.gov.

    Sen. Rick Williams serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Retirement. He represents the 25th Senate District, which includes Baldwin, Butts, Jasper, Jones and Putnam County, as well as portions of Henry County and a small portion of Bibb County. He may be reached by phone at (404) 656-0052 or by email at Rick.Williams@senate.ga.gov.

    For all media inquiries, please reach out to SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Teenager convicted of multiple terrorism offences

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A man has pleaded guilty to a number of terrorism offences linked to sharing terrorist material online following an investigation by the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command.

    Leo Walby, 19 (08.08.2005) of Swanley, Kent, pleaded guilty at the Old Bailey on 2 April to six counts of dissemination of terrorist material, contrary to section 2 of the Terrorism Act (TACT), 2006. He also pleaded guilty to one count of failing to disclose a password, after being served notice, contrary to section 53, Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA), 2000.

    Walby was arrested on 4 October, 2024, as part of a proactive investigation by officers from the Counter Terrorism Command. He was arrested at an address in Swanley, Kent and officers also carried out a search at the address and seized various digital devices.

    As the investigation progressed, officers found evidence that Walby had been sharing various posts sharing extreme Islamist-related terrorist material, including Daesh propaganda through various social media accounts he was controlling.

    Walby was charged on 5 October 2024, with six counts of disseminating terrorist material. As the investigation continued, officers also applied to the court for a ‘section 49 notice’ to compel Walby to provide them with a password to a cloud-based storage account he held.

    However, even after the notice was obtained from the court, Walby still refused to provide officers with the password, so he was subsequently charged with failing to provide the password, contrary to section 53, Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA), 2000.

    Commander Dominic Murphy, head of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command said: “Our investigation found that Walby was sharing various pieces of terrorist material across a number of social media accounts he was controlling. This kind of content can be extremely harmful, so where we identify people like Walby who are responsible for this, then we will take action and he is now facing the very serious consequences of doing this.

    “I’d encourage anyone who comes across extremist or terrorist material online to report it to our specialist team who will review to determine whether further police action is necessary and appropriate.”

    Anyone who sees what they believe to be extremist or terrorist-related material can report it via www.gov.uk/ACT.

    After pleading guilty to the above offences, Walby was remanded in custody and is due to appear for sentencing at the Old Bailey on 9 May.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Tech startup culture is not as innovative as founders may think

    Source: The Conversation – France – By Yeonsin Ahn, Professeur assistant, stratégie et politique d’entreprise, HEC Paris Business School

    Eric Yuan was not happy at Cisco Systems even though he was making a salary in the high six figures, working as vice president of engineering on the videoconferencing software Cisco WebEx.

    “I even did not want to go to the office to work,” Yuan told CNBC Make It in 2019.

    Yuan was unhappy with the culture at Cisco, where new ideas were often shut down and change was slow. When he suggested building a new, mobile-friendly video platform from scratch, the idea was rejected by Cisco’s leadership. Frustrated by the resistance to innovation, Yuan left the company in 2011 and founded Zoom, whose value increased astronomically during the Covid pandemic years as it became the go-to app for remote work.

    One might think that founders who, like Yuan, expressed unhappiness with their previous employers’ culture would establish new companies with very different values. However, we found that, on average, whether they want to or not, founders are likely to replicate the culture of their previous employer in their new venture.

    Founders come from somewhere

    Yuan’s story includes the idea that many people have of the lumbering tech giant versus the agile startup. Yet our research found that this distinction is actually not so clear.

    More than 50 percent of US tech startup founders have previous experience in other companies, often in giants like Google or Meta. The work culture of these huge organizations is not always so easy to shake off when entrepreneurs go on to start their own companies.

    In our research, we identified 30 different cultural elements of companies. These include cultures of work-life balance, teamwork, authority, innovation, and compensation-oriented vs customer-oriented culture, to name a few.

    Previous research has shown that startup founders transfer knowledge and technology from former jobs. We found empirical evidence that they also transfer work culture.

    Comparing organizational cultures of “parents”, “spawns” and “twins”

    In our research, we identified startup founders and used their LinkedIn profiles to find companies where they had previously worked. Our team applied natural language processing, namely Latent Dirichlet allocation topic modelling, to text on Glassdoor, a site that allows current and former employees to anonymously review companies. We used the processed reviews to characterize the cultures of “parent” companies and startup companies, or “spawns”. We also identified a match or “twin” for the spawn organization that had a similar size, product and number of years in business.

    Then, we compared the culture of each spawn startup to the culture of its parent organization, and the culture of each spawn’s “twin” to the culture of the same parent, in a given year. If a spawn was more similar to its parent than the twin was to the parent, this supported our hypothesis that founders tend to transfer their previous work cultures to their new ventures.

    And we found that there are three conditions that favour such a transfer.

    • Length of employment

    First, the longer years founders have been at an organization, the more likely they are to transfer its culture to their new startup, because they have become very familiar with that culture.

    • Congruency of culture

    The second condition is the congruency of culture, i.e., the degree to which culture is composed of elements that are consistent in their meanings, and hence, have internal compatibility.

    For example, in our data, there a cloud-based location services platform that has high congruency in its culture. The company has three highly salient cultural elements: it is adaptive, customer-oriented and demanding. These elements consistently point to a culture of customer responsiveness. Our data also includes an e-commerce clothing platform with two cultural elements – growth orientation and work-life balance – that are poorly aligned in their meanings, reducing the congruency of its culture.

    We found that the more internally congruent a parent organization’s culture is – and thus, the easier it is to understand and learn – the more likely it is that founders will transfer its elements to their new companies.

    • Typicality of culture

    Third, the more atypical an organization is – the more it stands out from others in its field – the more likely it is that its culture will be transferred to the startup.

    In an atypical culture, it is easy for employees to identify cultural elements, and to remember and incorporate them once they found a startup. Because an atypical culture draws a stronger boundary that distinguishes an organization from others, employees become more aware that the organization has chosen them and that they have chosen to work in it. This creates a cognitive attachment in the employee toward the organization, and also increases how well they learn its culture.

    In our study, each startup’s cultural atypicality was measured by calculating the cultural distances between all organizations within the same product category for a given year.

    It’s common for founders to describe their culture as distinctive or one-of-a-kind. However, we found that’s not necessarily the case. Founders tend to replicate the culture of their previous employers because they’re accustomed to that way of working.

    False perceptions?

    Many students tell me they’re drawn to more creative and innovative work environments – something they often associate with startups rather than traditional, established companies.

    But our research suggests this perception might not be entirely accurate.

    Job seekers looking for unique or forward-thinking cultures may be surprised to find that startup environments resemble those of larger tech companies more often than expected.

    And for founders – especially those who left previous roles because of frustrating workplace cultures – it can be a wake-up call to realize how easy it is to unintentionally recreate the very environments they may have hoped to avoid.

    Yeonsin Ahn ne travaille pas, ne conseille pas, ne possède pas de parts, ne reçoit pas de fonds d’une organisation qui pourrait tirer profit de cet article, et n’a déclaré aucune autre affiliation que son organisme de recherche.

    – ref. Tech startup culture is not as innovative as founders may think – https://theconversation.com/tech-startup-culture-is-not-as-innovative-as-founders-may-think-243216

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Boozman Joins Graham, Colleagues to Introduce Hard-Hitting Russia Sanctions

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman

    WASHINGTON––U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) joined Senators Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and a bipartisan collection of more than three dozen other senators to introduce primary and secondary sanctions against Russia and actors supporting Russia’s aggression in Ukraine.

    These sanctions would be imposed if Russia refuses to engage in good faith negotiations for a lasting peace with Ukraine or initiates another effort, including military invasion, that undermines the sovereignty of Ukraine after peace is negotiated. The legislation also imposes a 500 percent tariff on imported goods from countries that buy Russian oil, gas, uranium and other products.

    “In 1994, as part of the Budapest Memorandum, Ukraine gave up approximately 1,700 nuclear weapons with a promise from the U.S., Russia and United Kingdom that Ukraine’s sovereignty would be honored in the future. This failed to deter Russian aggression. In 2014 and 2015, the Minsk agreements were reached to end Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, but again, it did nothing to deter future aggression. In 2022, Russia invaded Ukraine once more, leading to deaths of hundreds of thousands of people and the displacement of millions.

    “It is our hope that in 2025, President Trump and his team will achieve what has eluded the world in the past: ending Russian aggression against Ukraine permanently and ensuring the survivability of a free and democratic Ukraine. These sanctions against Russia are at the ready and will receive overwhelming bipartisan, bicameral support if presented to the Senate and House for a vote. 

    “We support an immediate ceasefire to secure a lasting, honorable peace,” the senators said.

    The sanctions are cosponsored by U.S. Senators Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Katie Britt (R-AL), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Todd Young (R-IN), Angus King (I-ME), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), John Curtis (R-UT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Peter Welch (D-VT), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), Chris Coons (D-DE), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Jon Husted (R-OH), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), John Cornyn (R-TX), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), John Hoeven (R-ND), John Fetterman (D-PA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), James Lankford (R-OK), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Rick Scott (R-FL), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Jim Justice (R-WV), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Steve Daines (R-MT) and Jack Reed (D-RI).

    Click here for full text of the legislation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: “New partnership” between defence and private sector set to boost UK defence sector

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    “New partnership” between defence and private sector set to boost UK defence sector

    Major venture capitalists from across Europe can help unlock billions of pounds of private investment into UK technology and defence firms, as part of a “new partnership” between defence and private investors, the Defence Secretary has said today. 

    Defence Secretary John Healey at a table speaking with investors.

    • Influential investors convened in London to discuss future routes to defence financing.
    • Government’s record spending uplift and reforms will help unlock private-sector investment into UK defence, Defence Secretary said.
    • Defence “is an ethical investment” as Government set to back Britain’s high-growth companies with new innovation funding.
    • Comes alongside up to £250 million of Government investment into UK firm to help boost missile defence.

    In a first-of-its-kind meeting between venture capital firms and a UK Defence Secretary, John Healey MP spoke at a breakfast roundtable at Plural’s offices in central London. The meeting was convened by Plural co-founder Khaled Helioui, and Grace Cassy of Ten Eleven Ventures who has supported the development of the Strategic Defence Review as part of the Defence Review Team.

    In a changing world, with increasing threats and war in Europe, the group discussed how to incentivise greater private investment into defence and deep technology, to help deter Britain’s adversaries, secure the UK economy, protect the incomes of hard-working families up and down the country and support European security. 

    The Defence Secretary set out how the Government’s largest sustained increase in defence spending since the Cold War – with 2.5% of GDP spend by April 2027 and a commitment to hit 3% in the next Parliament – coupled with defence reforms, can unlock private sector investment into high-growth British firms – boosting jobs and delivering on the Government’s Plan for Change by making defence an engine for growth across the UK. This includes:

    • A new ambition to unlock more private defence investment, supported by long-term certainty of rising Government defence investment over the next decade, alongside the new Government direct expenditure target for SMEs including start-ups and scale-ups to give high-growth companies more certainty and sight of future investment.

    • Turbocharging innovation with a new £400 million ringfenced budget for UK Defence Innovation, announced by the Chancellor last week, alongside a commitment to spend 10% of the MOD equipment budget on novel technologies.

    • Making clear that “defence is an ethical investment” in deterring conflict and preventing the huge human and economic costs caused by conflicts such as Ukraine. It comes as some funds look to renegotiated Limited Partner Agreements to better enable investment into defence.

    In a sign of the Government backing British firms with long-term public investment, the meeting comes as the Government confirms up to £250 million investment across the next six years with UK defence tech firm Roke – supporting around 150 jobs and delivering analysis, trials and technology development against ballistic and hypersonic missile threats.

    Roke – based in Hampshire and focused on innovation and AI development – have been awarded a contract up to six-years in length, known as Science and Technology Oriented Research and development in Missile defence (STORM). The framework streamlines crucial research into innovative technologies, helping enhance the UK’s ability to detect, identify, and defeat ballistic and hypersonic missile threats – work that is essential to safeguarding the UK and its allies. 

    Defence Secretary, John Healey MP said:

    In this new era of rising threats, national security isn’t just a military imperative. It’s the foundation for economic growth, securing Britain’s future and our Government’s Plan for Change.

    As Defence Secretary, I am determined to bring together investors, innovators and industry in a new partnership that drives British jobs and growth. We want to mobilise private investors to take a fresh look at defence, alongside the certainty of our Government’s record long-term uplift in defence spending.

    With countries across Europe facing new threats stepping up to take more responsibility for our continent’s defence is an ethical investment, and it’s good to see increasing numbers of private investors recognising that. There is no more important investment than in our European security.

    As a government we are determined to tackle any blockers which are preventing private finance from flowing into UK defence, which is why today’s landmark meeting is so important. 

    The Defence Secretary also said the government is bringing “a clear mandate to bring innovative technology to the frontline at speed and enable the defence sector to create high-growth British success stories that deliver investor returns and national security.”

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Fresh appeal following murder in Brixton

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives investigating the murder of Troy Ramsundar in Brixton are continuing to appeal for information.

    Officers from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command leading the investigation into Troy’s murder have today released images of a distinctive backpack they are keen to locate.

    The backpack is a blue Herschel rucksack with brown strapping and a pink or orange striped lining. The backpack belonged to the suspect and we believe he may have discarded it in or around the vicinity of Brockwell Park.

    The suspect entered the park from the Brixton Water Lane entrance at 05:15hrs on Thursday, 20 March and left by the junction of Norwood Road and Dulwich Road after approximately 30 minutes.

    The suspect was wearing and may have also discarded:

    • Dark outer jacket
    • Light (possibly grey) hooded top
    • Dark face-mask
    • Dark trousers
    • Dark shiny shoes
    • Gloves (possibly red / brown)

    Detectives are also keen to speak to anyone who was at the bus stop on Brixton Road (bus stop Q) between 04:30hrs and 05:15hrs on Thursday, 20 March. This bus stop is served by the 2, 3, 196, 415, 432, N2 & N3 buses.

    Detective Chief Inspector Brian Howie, from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command, who is leading the investigation, said: “My team continue to support Troy’s family who are inconsolable and are trying to understand why he was killed.

    “While we are making significant progress in our investigation, we continue to appeal for anyone who witnessed this incident and particularly anyone who has information about the bag and its contents to contact us.

    “Did you see Troy that evening? We believe that he was selling packets of crisps in the area, including to people at the bus stop. This may seem like an insignificant detail but we are hoping it may jog people’s memories.

    “My team are working tirelessly to piece together the events that took place on the morning of Thursday, 20 March. They will be conducting a witness appeal at 04:00hrs tomorrow in Brixton Road on the two-week anniversary of Troy’s death.

    “Please speak to them and share any information you may have. Help us to provide Troy’s family with the answers they need.”

    Police were called at approximately 05:10hrs on Thursday, 20 March to reports of a man suffering a stab injury in Brixton Road SW9.

    Officers and London Ambulance Service attended but despite their efforts Troy, aged 34, sadly died at the scene.

    Anyone with information that could assist police is asked to call 101 or message @MetCC on X giving the reference CAD843/20Mar. You can also provide information, or upload images and footage, through the online portal here .

    Information can also be provided anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

    + A man has been charged with Troy’s murder.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: “A legacy offering real hope for Scotland” – Carla Denyer reflects on Patrick Harvie’s tenure as longest serving political leader in the UK

    Source: Green Party of England and Wales

    / by Green Party

    Responding to the news that Patrick Harvie is stepping down as Co-Leader of the Scottish Green Party, Carla Denyer MP, Co-Leader of the Green Party of England and Wales, said,

    “Patrick’s legacy goes well beyond being the longest-serving political leader in the UK, or even being the leader who took Greens into government for the first time in the UK. His legacy will be marked every time a young person gets on public transport free of charge; with every renter who is able to keep a roof over their heads because of protections that Patrick secured; and with every kilowatt of clean renewable power that Scotland produces because of Green policies. These are real achievements to be proud of. A legacy offering real hope for Scotland.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The Box reaches mega milestone with arrival of millionth visitor

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Millionth visitor Abi, and her daughters Rosa and Lilah, are welcomed at The Box by Councillor Jemima Laing

    A mother received an especially warm welcome when she arrived at The Box today with her two daughters to discover she was the millionth visitor to come through the doors since the museum and gallery opened.

    This is a huge milestone for The Box, which has gone from strength to strength since opening during the pandemic in 2020.

    Not only has it attracted the crowds from Plymouth and much further afield, The Box has also won an array of awards and attracted national media attention with its world-class temporary art programme, working with partners such as the Tate, National Portrait Gallery, The Hepworth, The National Gallery and The Whitworth.

    Councillor Jemima Laing, Deputy Leader of Council and Cabinet Member for Children’s Social Care, Culture and Communications, said: “I was so thrilled to welcome Abi and her daughters Rosa and Lilah to The Box this afternoon.

    “We talk about The Box being nationally known and locally loved and the fact that Abi and her family are regular visitors because there’s always things for her children to do and new things to see seems really fitting.

    “To anyone who hasn’t been to The Box yet can I extend an invitation to the best free cultural attraction in the Southwest. There really is something here for everyone – here’s to the next million!”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Kemp: Georgia-based Flock Safety Opens New 97,000-Square-Foot Manufacturing Facility

    Source: US State of Georgia

    ATLANTA – Governor Brian P. Kemp today announced that Georgia-headquartered Flock Safety, a leading safety technology solutions provider, is opening a new manufacturing facility in Smyrna. The new 97,000-square-foot facility will ultimately create an estimated 210 new jobs over the next three years and represents an investment of approximately $10 million. Governor Kemp and First Lady Marty Kemp joined Flock Safety CEO Garrett Langley, Flock Safety Chief People Officer Paige Todd, Smyrna Mayor Derek Norton, Cobb County Chairwoman Lisa Cupid, Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce CEO Katie Kirkpatrick, Cobb County Police Chief Stuart VanHoozer, and other state and local leadership to celebrate the ribbon cutting.

    “In Georgia, we foster a business environment where innovative companies can get off the ground and grow into leaders in their industry while operating in safe communities,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “Flock Safety is a great example of the success that approach has created, and we’re proud to celebrate this milestone with them. We look forward to many years of partnership with Flock Safety in their efforts to help keep Georgians safe.”

    Flock Safety was founded in Georgia in 2017, and the company currently supports more than 250 jobs in the state. Over 300 law enforcement agencies and 100 businesses in Georgia have deployed Flock Safety’s technology to solve and reduce crime. Flock Safety launched its Drone as First Responder system last year upon the acquisition of Aerodome, a leader in rapid response drones for public safety.

    “We feel fortunate to have our roots in Georgia, the state that is undisputedly the leader in the American aerospace industry, and are proud to invest further by creating hundreds of advanced manufacturing and aviation jobs locally,” said Garrett Langley, Founder and CEO of Flock Safety. “Drone as First Responder technology stands to transform emergency response, and these made-in-America, NDAA-compliant drones will have a transformative impact on the local communities we aim to serve.”

    Flock Safety’s new facility in Smyrna is dedicated to the production of the company’s advanced public safety tools, including Drone as First Responder technology as well as refurbishing damaged devices and assembling solar panels. Hiring for the new facility is underway now, with projections to meet full operations in 2027. Interested individuals can learn more about working at Flock Safety and apply at www.flocksafety.com/careers.

    “Smyrna’s convenient location and diverse talent pool make the city an ideal environment for corporate innovation opportunities,” said Smyrna Mayor Derek Norton. “We appreciate Flock’s confidence in Smyrna and welcome them to our community.”

    “We are thrilled to welcome Flock Safety to Cobb County,” said Chairwoman Lisa Cupid, Cobb County Board of Commissioners. “We have been early partners with Flock Safety by deploying their public safety technology, and I am happy to see this relationship evolve in our community, with its ready workforce and a business environment supportive of their commitment to innovation in public safety technology. We are certain the dynamic energy of Cobb’s business climate and quality of life for residents will add to Flock Safety’s success.”

    “Flock Safety’s expansion is yet another Georgia business success story. This growth in Cobb County shows why companies that start here stay, put down roots, and keep thriving,” said Katie Kirkpatrick, President & CEO of the Metro Atlanta Chamber. “With our unmatched talent, innovation, and pro-business environment, the expansion strengthens Flock Safety’s ability to leverage technology to make our communities safer.” 

    Senior Regional Project Manager Caroline Kinchler represented the Georgia Department of Economic Development’s (GDEcD) Global Commerce team on this project in partnership with the City of Smyrna, Cobb County Economic Development, Metro Atlanta Chamber, Georgia Power, and SelectCobb.

    “Aerospace products – Georgia’s No. 1 export – come in all shapes and sizes, from jets and turbines to cutting-edge innovations like Flock Safety’s Drone as First Responder technology,” said GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson. “Georgia’s strength in aerospace innovation and manufacturing is driven by strategic investments in education and a collaborative, business-friendly environment. Congratulations to Flock Safety on launching the first of its aerospace-focused manufacturing operations, and to Cobb County and the greater metro Atlanta community on this exciting milestone.”

    About Flock Safety

    Flock Safety is a leading safety technology platform, helping communities thrive by taking a proactive approach to crime prevention and security. The company’s end-to-end hardware and software suite unites cities, law enforcement, businesses, schools, and neighborhoods in a nationwide public-private safety network. Flock is trusted by more than 5,000 communities, 4,500 law enforcement agencies, and 1,000 businesses to deliver real-time intelligence while upholding the highest standards of privacy, data integrity, and responsible innovation. Visit www.flocksafety.com for more info.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: IBCA Community Update, 2 April 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence

    IBCA Community Update, 2 April 2025

    Infected Blood Compensation Authority’s update that was circulated on 2 April 2025

    Documents

    IBCA Community Update, 2 April 2025

    HTML

    Details

    Infected Blood Compensation Authority’s update that was circulated on 2 April 2025.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 April 2025

    Sign up for emails or print this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Resurfacing marks final phase of Western Road improvements

    Source: City of Leicester

    THE final phase of maintenance and improvements to a residential road in Leicester’s West End will begin next week.

    Leicester City Council will begin work to resurface Western Road – between its junctions with Braunstone Gate and Paton Street – from Wednesday 9 April.

    The work will require the stretch of road to be closed to traffic for up to nine days while work is carried out. A short, well-signposted diversion will be place. Parking will also be suspended.

    Access to properties and businesses will be maintained for deliveries.

    Work will also be carried out at the junction of Western Road and Briton Street, where adjustments will be made to give priority to vehicles and cycles from Briton Street.

    This will be the final phase of a £700,000 scheme that has improved footpaths along the length of the road and removed dropped kerbs that cut across the pavement, but which no longer provide access to parking or loading areas. Carriageway drainage improvements have also been carried out.

    Cllr Geoff Whittle, assistant city mayor for environment and transport, said: “The city’s road network needs regular maintenance and repairs to ensure it can cope with modern demands.

    “The work on Western Road will help improve a busy residential street and important local route to ensure it’s in good shape for years to come. This will benefit everyone who uses it.

    “The final phase of resurfacing will mean some disruption. While the road is closed for a few days, a clearly signposted diversion will be in place and the team will be working hard to keep disruption to a minimum.”

    The Western Road scheme is funded as part of the Connecting Leicester programme which is supported by the Department for Transport’s Transforming Cities Fund.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Deputy Secretary-General’s video message at the Opening of the Global Disability Summit

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    His Majesty King Abdullah II bin Al Hussein, King of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan,

    H.E. Mr. Olaf Scholz, Federal Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany,

    Mr. Nawaf Kabbara, Chair and President, International Disability Alliance,

    Excellencies, Dear friends,

    I am truly sorry that I could not join you in person today but it is a true honor to open this third Global Disability Summit.

    More than that, I want to thank you for your leadership and commitment to shape a more just world.

    Expanding hope and opportunities for people with disabilities is close to my heart – and that of the Secretary-General.

    It is a matter of dignity… of humanity… of human rights.

    It is a test of our common values.

    And it is also plain common sense.

    When persons with disabilities can fully participate in society, societies are stronger.

    When we unlock potential and recognize talents, economies and communities thrive.

    When we advance human rights, all of humanity moves forward.

    Disability rights are human rights – and everyone one wins when we make them real.

    And so I thank the International Disability Alliance and the Governments of Germany and Jordan for bringing us together.

    You are meeting at a crucial time – with the 5-year clock ticking on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

    I was involved in the shaping of that agenda – and saw firsthand how so many of you helped put the rights and hopes of persons with disabilities front and center.

    In doing so, you gave deeper meaning to the promise of leaving no one behind – and laid the foundation for the progress we strive to advance today.

    The Pact for the Future, adopted last year, reinforces that call for a more peaceful, inclusive, accessible and equitable world – with persons with disabilities a full and equal part of our shared effort to advance sustainable development, climate action and digital transformation.

    Yet today, we face a sobering truth.

    Progress is not just slow – in some cases, we are moving backward.

    The UN Disability and Development Report found that about 98 per cent of the SDG indicators for persons with disabilities are off track.

    This is far more than a statistic – it is a wake-up call.

    Persons with disabilities are being left behind.

    The world is failing them.

    We are seeing growing and stark inequalities across the board – with higher poverty, greater unemployment, deeper food and health insecurity and more limited access to digital technologies.

    Women, Indigenous Peoples, rural residents with disabilities, and persons with intellectual or psychosocial disabilities face even greater exclusion. 

    Not to mention those in humanitarian and emergency situations.

    In Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan and elsewhere, countless civilians have sustained permanent injuries and deep psychological trauma.

    Children with disabilities are especially vulnerable.

    Gaza alone has the highest number of child amputees in modern history.

    Too often, persons with disabilities also face inaccessible evacuation routes, shelters, and services – an assault on their human rights and dignity.  

    Many are deprived of the assistive devices critical to their survival.

    When I think of people with disabilities in conflict, I think of people like Mai.

    Mai was a young Palestinian, and a proud employee of the United Nations, living and working in Gaza.

    Mai did not let her muscular dystrophy or her wheelchair confine her dreams. 

    She was a top student, became a software developer and devoted her skills to working on information technology for the United Nations. 

    When given the opportunity, she excelled – bringing skill and determination to all she did.

    Unfortunately, she was killed along with her family in November 2023. 

    Her story still weighs heavily on our hearts.

    I share it not only to honour her memory, but because it reminds us both of what is possible when barriers are removed – and of the terrible truth that persons with disabilities are often among the first casualties in conflict.

    Excellencies,

    Ladies and gentlemen,

    Despite the challenges, we have much to build upon. 

    The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities has led to significant legislative progress worldwide.

    Yet, implementation is lagging.

    The problem is not always a lack of will, but a lack of resources.

    Nearly 90 per cent of developing countries have laws or policies protecting education for persons with disabilities – yet only about one-third of those countries have accessible schools.

    Meanwhile, almost half of all persons with disabilities in these countries face inaccessible transportation.

    Behind these figures are people. 

    Children shut out of classrooms. 

    Adults who cannot get to work. 

    Families denied essential services.

    This must change.

    And we must all be part of it.

    The United Nations is committed to leading by example.

    Our UN Disability Inclusion Strategy is striving to drive action across the system.

    We are working to strengthen institutional capacities, mainstream disability inclusion across our work, and expand employment opportunities for persons with disabilities.

    At the country level, we are working to ensure that our cooperation frameworks with governments are fully inclusive of the needs and rights of persons with disabilities.

    And we are committed to supporting Member States turn global commitments into local progress – for and with persons with disabilities.

    This Summit presents opportunities to strengthen cooperation with all partners – and reaffirm the leadership of organizations of persons with disabilities.

    Development assistance for disability inclusion has been growing – but it is still far from enough.

    And in today’s troubling context, it is under increasing threat.

    So too, perversely, is the very concept of accessibility.

    Developed countries, in particular, have a responsibility to step up support.

    Now is the time to recommit to the 2030 Agenda by:

    Securing decent work and dignified livelihoods;

    Fostering inclusive education and career opportunities;

    Building accessible and affordable housing;

    Promoting equitable health systems;

    And harnessing technologies that enable autonomous living for all.

    That means investing in inclusive public institutions;

    Empowering representative organizations as full partners in policy and implementation;

    And integrating disability inclusion into national development plans – backed by clear targets and real funding.

    Dear friends,

    I know so many of you have spent years, even decades, breaking down barriers, and opening doors – for all of us.

    Let this Summit help drive that action forward.       

    As we look ahead to the Second World Summit for Social Development in Qatar and beyond, let’s together send a clear message:

    Inclusion is not optional.

    Rights are not negotiable.

    Accessibility is essential.

    Promises made must be promises kept.

    Let’s keep fighting for the inclusive, just, sustainable future for all that our world needs.

    Thank you.
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Iranian Company and Two Iranian Nationals Charged with Conspiring to Provide Material Support to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), and for Scheme to Procure U.S. Technology for Iranian Drones

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation FBI Crime News (b)

    CEO and Commercial Manager of Iranian Company Charged in Connection with Conspiracies to Provide Material Support, Violate Export Control Laws and Commit Money Laundering

    BROOKLYN, NY – Earlier today, in federal court in Brooklyn, a complaint was unsealed charging Iranian nationals Hossein Akbari and Reza Amidi, and an Iran-based Rah Roshd Company (“Rah Roshd”), with conspiring to procure U.S. parts for Iranian Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (“UAVs”), also known as drones, conspiring to provide material support to the IRGC, a designated foreign terrorist organization, and conspiring to commit money laundering.  Akbari is the Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) of Rah Roshd. Amidi is the company’s commercial manager and was previously the commercial manager of Qods Aviation Industries (“QAI”), an Iranian state-owned aerospace company.  They are both citizens of Iran and remain at large.

    John J. Durham, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, Sue Bai, head of the Justice Department’s National Security Division, and Christopher G. Raia, Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), announced the charges.

    “As alleged in the complaint, the defendants conspired to obtain U.S.-origin parts needed to manufacture drones for military use in Iran and send those parts to Iran in violation of export control laws,” stated United States Attorney Durham.  “The charges filed today demonstrate the commitment by my Office and our law enforcement partners to dismantle illicit supply chains and prosecute those who unlawfully procure U.S. technology in support of a foreign terrorist organization.  The IRGC and Qods Aviation Industries have been core players in the Iranian military regime’s production of drones, which threaten the lives of civilians, U.S. personnel, and our country’s allies.  These charges should serve as a warning to those who violate U.S. export control laws and who unlawfully seek to aid Iran’s drone program.”

    Mr. Durham expressed his appreciation to the FBI and the Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (“OFAC”) for their work on the case.  Today, OFAC sanctioned Akbari, Rah Roshd, and other companies and individuals for their roles in the sanctions-evasion scheme described in the complaint.  OFAC previously sanctioned Amidi.

    “Today’s charges lay bare how U.S.-made technology ended up in the hands of the Iranian military to build attack drones,” stated Sue J. Bai, head of the Justice Department’s National Security Division.  “The Justice Department will continue to put maximum pressure on the Iranian regime. We will relentlessly dismantle illicit supply chains funneling American technology into the hands of Iran’s military and terrorist organizations and pursue those complicit in operations that threaten our country.”

    “Hossein Akbari and Reza Amidi allegedly engaged in a multi-year conspiracy to obtain U.S. technology for use in Iranian made drones in violation of export laws and to provide material support to the IRGC—a designated terrorist organization,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Raia.  “The Iranian government has repeatedly demonstrated they are willing to violate the laws of our nation—this time utilizing dishonest businessmen who deliberately misrepresented themselves—in order to further their treacherous goals.  The FBI will continue to protect the national security and interests of the United States through vigorous enforcement of export control laws put in place to prevent sensitive U.S. technology from being obtained by hostile foreign governments.”

    As set forth in the complaint, Akbari and Amidi operate Rah Roshd, which procures and supplies advanced electronic, electro-optical, and security systems to the Government of Iran and designs, builds, and manufactures ground support systems for UAVs.  Akbari serves as the CEO and Managing Director of Rah Roshd, and Amidi serves as the Commercial Manager.  Rah Roshd’s clients include the IRGC and several Iranian state-owned aerospace companies and drone manufacturers, including QAI, Iran’s Ministry of Defense and Armed Forces Logistics (“MODAFL”), Shahed Aviation Industries Research Center (“SAIRC”), and Shahid Bakeri Industrial Group (SBIG).

    Between January 2020 and the present, Amidi and Akbari used Rah Roshd in furtherance of a scheme to evade U.S. sanctions and procure U.S.-origin parts for use in Iranian-manufactured UAVs, including the Mohajer-6 UAV.  At least one of those parts was manufactured by a Brooklyn, New York-based company (“Company-1”).  In September 2022, the Ukrainian Air Force shot down an Iranian-made Mohajer-6 drone used by the Russian military in Ukraine.  The drone recovered by the Ukrainian Air Force contained parts made by several U.S. companies, including Company-1.

    To facilitate their scheme, Amidi and Akbari falsely purported to represent companies other than Rah Roshd, including a company based in the United Arab Emirates (“Company-2”) and a company based in Belgium (“Company-3”).  The defendants used a “spoofed” email address with a misspelled version of Company-2’s name to communicate regarding the procurement of parts, including parts manufactured by U.S. companies.  The defendants also used various “front” or “shell” companies to pay for UAV parts and to obfuscate the true end destination and the true identities of the sanctioned end users, including QAI and the IRGC, which were acquiring U.S.-made parts through Rah Roshd.  Amidi and Akbari also used aliases to obfuscate their true identities in furtherance of the scheme.

    Additionally, the defendants conspired to provide material support to the IRGC by providing goods and services for the benefit of the IRGC’s military campaign. This included constructing military shelters, providing cameras and drone field hangers, and conspiring to procure drone parts as well as parts to operate drones, including “servo motors,” “pneumatic masts,” which are a component of the operation of the Mohajer-6 drone, and engines.  The investigation uncovered correspondence from the IRGC, signed by the head of the UAV Command for the IRGC’s Aerospace Force, thanking Rah Roshd for its work on behalf of the IRGC and praising Rah Roshd’s achievements in designing and manufacturing servo motors for defense equipment.  The letter included a quote from the Supreme Leader of Iran regarding the importance of self-sufficiency and domestic production to strengthen Iran’s economy and “disappoint the enemies of the Islamic Republic.”  The letter also noted continued efforts of Rah Roshd “in strengthening the defensive capabilities of the Islamic Republic of Iran.”  Both Amidi and Akbari possessed documents indicating that they had purchased servo motors for delivery to Iran, including a servo motor contained in the Mohajer-6 drone.  Akbari also emailed supply companies located in China and noted that he was purchasing parts for drones to be shipped to Iran.

    Finally, Amidi and Akbari conspired to commit money laundering.  They used at least three shell companies, all based in the United Arab Emirates, to pay a China-based company that sent invoices to Rah Roshd for the sale of motors.  Those payments were processed through U.S.-based correspondent bank accounts. The defendants also used two of these shell companies to pay a separate China-based company for the sale of pneumatic masts.

    Today’s actions were coordinated through the Justice and Commerce Departments’ Disruptive Technology Strike Force. The Disruptive Technology Strike Force is an interagency law enforcement strike force co-led by the Departments of Justice and Commerce designed to target illicit actors, protect supply chains, and prevent critical technology from being acquired by authoritarian regimes and hostile nation states.

    The charges in the complaint are allegations and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s National Security and Cybercrime Section.  Assistant United States  Attorneys Nina C. Gupta and Lindsey R. Oken are in charge of the prosecution with the assistance of Paralegal Specialist Rebecca Roth, along with Trial Attorney Scott Claffee of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section and Trial Attorney Charles Kovats of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. 

    The Defendants:

    HOSSEIN AKBARI (also known as “Danial Yousef” and “Danial White”)
    Age: 63
    Iran

    REZA AMIDI (also known as “Ali Rahmani”)
    Age: 62
    Iran

    RAH ROSHD COMPANY
    Tehran, Iran

    E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 25-MJ-114

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Convening of the Annual General Meeting of Euronext N.V.

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Convening of the Annual General Meeting of Euronext N.V.

    Amsterdam, Brussels, Dublin, Lisbon, Milan, Oslo and Paris – 2 April 2025 – Euronext today announced that the Annual General Meeting (“AGM”) will take place on Thursday 15 May 2025 at 10.30 CEST at Beursplein 5, 1012 JW Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

    The agenda for the meeting is as follows:

    1.   Opening
    2.   Presentation by the Chief Executive Officer (discussion item)
    3.   Annual Report 2024
    a)   Explanation of the policy on additions to reserves and dividends (discussion item)
    b)   Proposal to adopt the 2024 remuneration report (voting item 1)
    c)   Proposal to adopt the 2024 financial statements (voting item 2)
    d)   Proposal to adopt a dividend of € 2.90 per ordinary share (voting item 3)
    e)   Proposal to discharge the members of the Managing Board in respect of their duties performed during the year 2024 (voting item 4)
    f)   Proposal to discharge the members of the Supervisory Board in respect of their duties performed during the year 2024 (voting item 5)
    4.   Composition of the Supervisory Board
    a)   Re-appointment of Piero Novelli as a member of the Supervisory Board (voting item 6)
    b)   Re-appointment of Olivier Sichel as a member of the Supervisory Board (voting item 7)
    c)   Appointment of Francesca Scaglia as a member of the Supervisory Board (voting item 8)
    5.   Composition of the Managing Board
    a)   Re-appointment of Delphine d’Amarzit as a member of the Managing Board (voting item 9)
    b)   Appointment of René van Vlerken as a member of the Managing Board (voting item 10)
    6.   Proposal to amend the remuneration policy with regard to the Managing Board (voting item 11)
    7.   Proposal to amend the remuneration policy with regard to the Supervisory Board (voting item 12)
    8.   Proposal to appoint the external auditor (voting item 13)
    9.   Proposal regarding cancellation of the company’s own shares purchased by the company under the share repurchase program (voting item 14)
    10.   Proposal to designate the Managing Board as the competent body:
    a)   to issue ordinary shares (voting item 15); and
    b)   to restrict or exclude the pre-emptive rights of shareholders (voting item 16)
    11.   Proposal to authorise the Managing Board to acquire ordinary shares in the share capital of the company on behalf of the company (voting item 17)
    12.   Proposal to authorise the Supervisory Board or Managing Board (subject to approval of the Supervisory Board) to grant rights to French beneficiaries to receive shares in accordance with Articles L225-197-1 and seq. of the French Code of commerce (voting item 18)
    13.   Any other business
    14.   Close

    The AGM will be conducted in English.

    Registration date AGM

    Pursuant to Dutch law and Euronext N.V.’s Articles of Association, the persons who will be considered as entitled to attend and vote at the AGM are those persons who are registered as such in the administrations held by their financial intermediaries (the “Shareholders”) on 17 April 2025, after processing of all settlements on that date (the “Registration Date”).

    Registration and voting instructions

    Shareholders holding their shares through Euronext Securities Milan (i.e. the public) who wish to attend the AGM, provide instructions or grant a power of attorney to vote on their behalf, must complete the form (voting form / attendance card request) provided for this purpose by their financial intermediary or by Euronext Securities Department – Uptevia. The Shareholders should be aware that these documents must be received, no later than on Thursday 8 May 2025 by their financial intermediary for receipt no later than on Friday 9 May 2025 by Uptevia, Assemblées Générales, 90-110 Esplanade du Général de Gaulle 92931 Paris La Défense Cedex, France. The financial intermediary should deliver to the Shareholder a certificate of holding containing: name and city of residence of the Shareholder; number of shares; name and city of residence of the attendee (if different from the Shareholder) and declaration that the shares were in custody with the Euroclear France-admitted institution on the Registration Date. This certificate will serve as the admission certificate for the AGM for the Shareholder.

    Shareholders holding their shares through Euronext Securities Porto in Portugal who wish to attend the AGM, provide instructions or grant a power of attorney to vote on their behalf, must complete the form (voting form / attendance card request) provided for this purpose by Euronext Securities Department – Uptevia Corporate Trust. The Shareholders should be aware that these documents must be received, no later than on Thursday 8 May 2025 by their financial intermediary for receipt no later than on Friday 9 May 2025 by BNP Paribas Securities Services, PT Local Team, Edificio ART’S – Av. D. Joao II – Lote 1.18.01, Bloco B, 1998-028 Lisboa, Portugal. The financial intermediary should deliver to the Shareholder a certificate of holding containing: name and city of residence of the Shareholder; number of shares on the Registration Date; name and city of residence of the attendee (if different from the Shareholder). This certificate will serve as admission certificate for the AGM for the Shareholder.

    Persons without a valid admission certificate will not be given access to the meeting. Attendants may be asked for identification prior to being admitted.

    At the time of the publication of this convening notice, Euronext’s total issued share capital in number of issued shares and in voting rights is published on Euronext’s website:
    https://www.euronext.com/en/investor-relations/capital-and-shareholding

    Webcast

    There will be a live broadcast of the AGM via
    https://channel.royalcast.com/landingpage/euronextwebcast/20250515_1/

    AGM Documentation

    The AGM Documentation (i.e. this convening notice, the agenda and the explanatory notes thereto including the information on the persons to be appointed to the Supervisory Board and the Managing Board, as well as the 2024 Annual Report) is available:

    • at the registered office of Euronext N.V.: Beursplein 5, 1012 JW Amsterdam, The Netherlands
    • by email request to EuronextCorporateSecretary@euronext.com
    • on Euronext’s website https://www.euronext.com/en/investor-relations/shareholder-meetings
    • at Uptevia – Assemblées Générales – 90-110 Esplanade du Général de Gaulle 92931 Paris La Défense Cedex, France – + 33 1 57 43 02 30

    Managing Board and Supervisory Board of Euronext N.V.
    Beursplein 5, 1012 JW Amsterdam, The Netherlands

    Registered at the Dutch Chamber of Commerce, under number 60234520

    CONTACTS  

    ANALYSTS & INVESTORS – ir@euronext.com

    Investor Relations        Aurélie Cohen                 

            Judith Stein        +33 6 15 23 91 97          

    MEDIA – mediateam@euronext.com 

    Europe        Aurélie Cohen         +33 1 70 48 24 45   

            Andrea Monzani         +39 02 72 42 62 13 

    Belgium        Marianne Aalders         +32 26 20 15 01                 

    France, Corporate        Flavio Bornancin-Tomasella        +33 1 70 48 24 45                 

    Ireland        Andrea Monzani         +39 02 72 42 62 13                 

    Italy         Ester Russom         +39 02 72 42 67 56                 

    The Netherlands        Marianne Aalders         +31 20 721 41 33                 

    Norway         Cathrine Lorvik Segerlund        +47 41 69 59 10                 

    Portugal         Sandra Machado        +351 91 777 68 97                

    About Euronext  

    Euronext is the leading European capital market infrastructure, covering the entire capital markets value chain, from listing, trading, clearing, settlement and custody, to solutions for issuers and investors. Euronext runs MTS, one of Europe’s leading electronic fixed income trading markets, and Nord Pool, the European power market. Euronext also provides clearing and settlement services through Euronext Clearing and its Euronext Securities CSDs in Denmark, Italy, Norway and Portugal.

    As of December 2024, Euronext’s regulated exchanges in Belgium, France, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway and Portugal host over 1,800 listed issuers with around €6 trillion in market capitalisation, a strong blue-chip franchise and the largest global centre for debt and fund listings. With a diverse domestic and international client base, Euronext handles 25% of European lit equity trading. Its products include equities, FX, ETFs, bonds, derivatives, commodities and indices.

    For the latest news, go to euronext.com or follow us on X and LinkedIn.

    Disclaimer

    This press release is for information purposes only: it is not a recommendation to engage in investment activities and is provided “as is”, without representation or warranty of any kind. While all reasonable care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the content, Euronext does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness. Euronext will not be held liable for any loss or damages of any nature ensuing from using, trusting or acting on information provided. No information set out or referred to in this publication may be regarded as creating any right or obligation. The creation of rights and obligations in respect of financial products that are traded on the exchanges operated by Euronext’s subsidiaries shall depend solely on the applicable rules of the market operator. All proprietary rights and interest in or connected with this publication shall vest in Euronext. This press release speaks only as of this date. Euronext refers to Euronext N.V. and its affiliates. Information regarding trademarks and intellectual property rights of Euronext is available at www.euronext.com/terms-use.

    © 2025, Euronext N.V. – All rights reserved. 

    The Euronext Group processes your personal data in order to provide you with information about Euronext (the “Purpose”). With regard to the processing of this personal data, Euronext will comply with its obligations under Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and Council of 27 April 2016 (General Data Protection Regulation, “GDPR”), and any applicable national laws, rules and regulations implementing the GDPR, as provided in its privacy statement available at: www.euronext.com/privacy-policy. In accordance with the applicable legislation you have rights with regard to the processing of your personal data: for more information on your rights, please refer to: www.euronext.com/data_subjects_rights_request_information. To make a request regarding the processing of your data or to unsubscribe from this press release service, please use our data subject request form at connect2.euronext.com/form/data-subjects-rights-request or email our Data Protection Officer at dpo@euronext.com.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Euronext publishes its detailed dividend payment schedule for 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Euronext publishes its detailed dividend payment schedule for 2025        

    Amsterdam, Brussels, Dublin, Lisbon, Milan, Oslo and Paris – 2 April 2025 – In line with the dividend distribution policy of Euronext, it is proposed to distribute 50% of 2024 reported net profit. As a consequence and subject to approval of shareholders at the Company’s Annual General Meeting to be held on 15 May 2025, the annual gross dividend on the 2024 results to be paid in 2025 amounts to €292.8 million, corresponding to a dividend per share of €2.90 (based on the total number of eligible shares).

    Payment of the annual dividend will occur as follows:

    Ex-dividend date: 26 May 2025

    Record date: 27 May 2025

    Payment date: 28 May 2025

    CONTACTS 

    ANALYSTS & INVESTORS – ir@euronext.com

    Investor Relations        Aurélie Cohen                 

            Judith Stein        +33 6 15 23 91 97          

    MEDIA – mediateam@euronext.com 

    Europe        Aurélie Cohen         +33 1 70 48 24 45   

            Andrea Monzani         +39 02 72 42 62 13 

    Belgium        Marianne Aalders         +32 26 20 15 01                 

    France, Corporate        Flavio Bornancin-Tomasella        +33 1 70 48 24 45                 

    Ireland        Andrea Monzani         +39 02 72 42 62 13                 

    Italy         Ester Russom         +39 02 72 42 67 56                 

    The Netherlands        Marianne Aalders         +31 20 721 41 33                 

    Norway         Cathrine Lorvik Segerlund        +47 41 69 59 10                 

    Portugal         Sandra Machado        +351 91 777 68 97                                 

    About Euronext  

    Euronext is the leading European capital market infrastructure, covering the entire capital markets value chain, from listing, trading, clearing, settlement and custody, to solutions for issuers and investors. Euronext runs MTS, one of Europe’s leading electronic fixed income trading markets, and Nord Pool, the European power market. Euronext also provides clearing and settlement services through Euronext Clearing and its Euronext Securities CSDs in Denmark, Italy, Norway and Portugal.

    As of December 2024, Euronext’s regulated exchanges in Belgium, France, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway and Portugal host over 1,800 listed issuers with around €6 trillion in market capitalisation, a strong blue-chip franchise and the largest global centre for debt and fund listings. With a diverse domestic and international client base, Euronext handles 25% of European lit equity trading. Its products include equities, FX, ETFs, bonds, derivatives, commodities and indices.

    For the latest news, go to euronext.com or follow us on X and LinkedIn.

    Disclaimer

    This press release is for information purposes only: it is not a recommendation to engage in investment activities and is provided “as is”, without representation or warranty of any kind. While all reasonable care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the content, Euronext does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness. Euronext will not be held liable for any loss or damages of any nature ensuing from using, trusting or acting on information provided. No information set out or referred to in this publication may be regarded as creating any right or obligation. The creation of rights and obligations in respect of financial products that are traded on the exchanges operated by Euronext’s subsidiaries shall depend solely on the applicable rules of the market operator. All proprietary rights and interest in or connected with this publication shall vest in Euronext. This press release speaks only as of this date. Euronext refers to Euronext N.V. and its affiliates. Information regarding trademarks and intellectual property rights of Euronext is available at www.euronext.com/terms-use.

    © 2025, Euronext N.V. – All rights reserved. 

    The Euronext Group processes your personal data in order to provide you with information about Euronext (the “Purpose”). With regard to the processing of this personal data, Euronext will comply with its obligations under Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and Council of 27 April 2016 (General Data Protection Regulation, “GDPR”), and any applicable national laws, rules and regulations implementing the GDPR, as provided in its privacy statement available at: www.euronext.com/privacy-policy. In accordance with the applicable legislation you have rights with regard to the processing of your personal data: for more information on your rights, please refer to: www.euronext.com/data_subjects_rights_request_information. To make a request regarding the processing of your data or to unsubscribe from this press release service, please use our data subject request form at connect2.euronext.com/form/data-subjects-rights-request or email our Data Protection Officer at dpo@euronext.com.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to study suggesting shingles vaccine (Zostavax) associated with lower risk of dementia

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A study published in Nature looks at the effect of the shingles vaccine (Zostvax) on dementia risk. 

    Comments provided by our friends at the Australian Science Media Centre:

    Dr Joseph Doyle, Professor of Infectious Diseases at Monash University and President of the Australasian Society for Infectious Diseases, said: 

    “The paper [by Eyting and colleagues in Nature] presents results of a natural experiment in Wales, United Kingdom, on the effect of shingles vaccination on new diagnosis of dementia. The study observed that older adults appeared to have less chance of dementia diagnosis in the seven years after receiving live-attenuated shingles vaccination (Zostavax). The authors estimate there were 3.5% fewer dementia diagnoses among people who received the live-attenuated shingles vaccine.

    “This study had an observational design, so we need to be cautious in assuming the vaccine itself caused this decline in dementia diagnoses. It is plausible that episodes of infection, immune system changes, or health care engagement are among the factors behind this association, but further research is needed to help determine whether there is a causal link.

    “Importantly, we don’t know whether these findings apply to both the live-attenuated shingles vaccine (Zostavax) used in their study and the newer recombinant subunit shingles vaccine (Shingrix) now used widely in Australia. 

    “Australia approved and subsidised Shingrix on the National Immunization Program in 2023. This newer shingles vaccine is available for older adults and is safer for people who are immunocompromised. 

    “While we do not know whether the newer shingles vaccine used locally has the same association with less dementia yet, we do know the shingles vaccine provided free in Australia is very effective and protective against episodes of shingles. 

    “Older adults and people with weak immune systems at higher risk of shingles are encouraged to see their doctor to talk more about vaccination.”  

     

    Professor Anthony Hannan, Group Head of the Epigenetics and Neural Plasticity Group at the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, said:

    “This new research article in Nature adds to the evidence that the nervous system and immune system closely interact, and that this has implications for dementia risk, as well as potentially new approaches to dementia prevention and treatment. Furthermore, it provides evidence that vaccination has the potential to impact positively on human health, beyond the particular disease that the vaccine was intended to prevent. 

    “A key question, not answered by this new study, is how the shingles (herpes zoster) vaccine may have helped protect (reducing risk by 20%) against dementia. We now know that, despite the blood-brain barrier, the brain has its own immune cells, which serve many roles including removal of specific toxic molecules that accumulate with age (particularly in the most common form of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease). 

    “It is possible that the vaccine had direct effects on these brain immune cells, but it is also possible that the vaccine acted indirectly, for example, by slowing brain aging and/or enhancing brain resilience to the ravages of age. The next step is to work out exactly how this vaccine exerts its protective effects against dementia and to use that information to develop new ways to prevent and treat dementia. It also increases the likelihood that in future there may be specific vaccination programs whose primary aim is to prevent dementia.”

     

    Dr Henry Brodaty, Scientia Professor of Ageing and Mental Health and Co-Director of the Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing at the University of New South Wales, said:

    “They examined the effect of a live virus to prevent shingles administered to people aged 79 to 80. The researchers took advantage of a decision in Wales that 79-80-year-olds born before 2nd September 1933 were ineligible for life to receive the shingles vaccine, whereas those born on or after that day were eligible for at least one year to receive the vaccine. There were 16,595 adults who had become eligible for the vaccine from a total sample of 282,541 adults in the sample.

    “They compared people who were one week too old with those who were one week younger. Those who received the vaccine had an absolute reduction of 7% of developing dementia over the next seven years. Compared to those who were unvaccinated, their risk of dementia was 20% lower. The benefits were stronger for women than men.

    “The authors examined multiple competing hypotheses to explain the results. There were no differences in dementia diagnoses for those who had and had not received influenza vaccines. Other possible explanations were also discounted. The authors considered the possible mechanism maybe preventing the reactivation of the shingles of the herpes varicella virus. The authors confirmed their findings in a different population by combining a different type of data from England and Wales and using deaths certified as being due to dementia.

    “Limitations include that these results only pertained to 79-80-year-olds in Wales and to the use of the live vaccine.

    “There has been evidence for some time that older people who receive their vaccinations in general are less likely to develop dementia. This is the best evidence yet to show this. Future research will determine whether the newer non-live virus, Shingrix will provide the same benefit and whether immunisation at younger ages may be just as effective.”

    ‘A natural experiment on the effect of herpes zoster vaccination on dementia’ by Markus Eyting et al. was published in Nature at 16:00 UK time on Wednesday 2 April 2025. 

    DOI: 10.1038/s41586-025-08800-x

    Declared interests

    Professor Anthony Hannan: No COI’s.

    Dr Henry Brodaty: is or has been an advisory board member or consultant to Biogen, Eisai, Eli Lilly, Medicines Australia, Roche and Skin2Neuron. He has received funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC).

    Prof Joseph Doyle: is a board member of the Australian Society for Infectious Diseases and the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee. The views expressed here are personal opinions and are not necessarily those of his employers or professional bodies.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Plaid Cymru call out “jaw dropping” comments from First Minister on UK Government welfare cuts

    Source: Party of Wales

    Plaid Cymru have accused the First Minister of having no influence on Number Ten Downing Street after a heated session of the Senedd’s Committee for the Scrutiny of the First Minister on Friday, March 28th.    

    During the session, the First Minister revealed that she could not remember the name of the individual she had spoken with at number ten when discussing UK Labour’s cuts to welfare spending.

    The First Minister also stated that she was ‘reserving judgement’ on said changes to welfare spending, despite the Secretary of State for Wales, Jo Stevens claiming that she had written to the UK Government in support of the cuts.

    The First Minister wished to ‘reserve judgement’ until a Welsh impact assessment had been made. The Welsh Government have contacted the UK Government with this request over a week ago, and as of yet have received no reply.

    In response to the session, Plaid Cymru MS and member of the committee, Llŷr Gruffydd said:

    “Some of the First Minister’s comments in committee this morning were quite frankly jaw-dropping. She said she was ‘reserving judgement’ before taking a stance on Labour’s welfare changes, but the Secretary of State for Wales says that the First Minister has already supported the cuts.

    “She went on to admit that the conversations she had with ‘number ten’ were not with the Prime Minister, nor any Ministers either. If her influence in Westminster only reaches a middle-ranking official, it’s obvious that it is non-existent.

    “It’s clear from today’s session that the First Minister has no direct influence – this so called ‘partnership in power’ just isn’t delivering, and it highlighted how this Labour Welsh Government is unable to move the dial on devolution. It will always be party before country for Labour and the First Minister. It’s time for a fresh start –  a Plaid Cymru government would always be relentless in standing up for Wales.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Higher School of Economics launches online course on industrial engineering

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    Faculty of Computer Science HSE Announces Launch of New Advanced Training Program “Prompt-engineering: neural networks for humans”. The course is intended for a wide audience interested in mastering effective methods of interaction with generative neural networks.

    The program includes a comprehensive study of approaches to formulating queries (prompts) for the effective solution of various problems using artificial intelligence. During the training, participants will master the creation and optimization of queries for generating texts, images, video and audio, and will also learn to improve prompts to achieve the most accurate and high-quality results.

    The course consists of theoretical lectures and practical classes covering both the basics of modern language models and the practical possibilities of using neural networks in professional and everyday activities. Participants will be able to consolidate their acquired knowledge by working on real examples and projects.

    The program is scheduled to start on May 20, 2025. The course duration is 4 months. Classes will be held online, in the format of webinars, video lectures and practical consultations with teachers.

    Upon completion of the course, students will create their own portfolio, confirming their competencies in the field of industrial engineering and the practical use of artificial intelligence.

    Armen Beklaryan, teacher of the program “Prompt-engineering: neural networks for humans”

    “The Prompt Engineering program will introduce you to methods of constructing and optimizing queries for modern artificial intelligence systems. During the training, you will learn how to correctly structure text commands, adapt them to different AI models, and analyze the results. The program combines theoretical classes with extensive practice: students will create their own projects, practicing their skills in working with the latest tools for generating text, images, audio, and video information. This program will not only deepen your understanding of the principles of AI, but also acquire in-demand competencies for effective interaction with modern digital technologies.”

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Representatives Goldman, Crockett Introduce Abortion Care Awareness Act to Combat Anti-Abortion Misinformation

    Source: US Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    Legislation Ensures Women Have Access to Accurate Information About Abortion Services and Where to Obtain Them 

     

    Goldman’s Bill Will Specifically Combat Misinformation about Medication Abortion, the Most Common Abortion Used in Telehealth Abortions 

     

    Read the Bill Here 

    Washington, DC – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) and Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett (TX-30) today re-introduced the ‘Abortion Care Awareness Act,’ which would increase access to medically accurate information about abortion, including medication abortion. Additionally, this bill would ensure people have access to accurate information about where and how to obtain abortion services across the country, how to avoid anti-abortion centers intended to deceive patients, and how to identify misinformation about abortion care. 

    For women residing in states with abortion bans, telehealth appointments and medication abortion have emerged as among the only ways they can receive reproductive health care in their jurisdiction. This bill comes as states with abortion bans in place have increasingly cracked down on these services, most recently charging a New York telemedicine provider who was protected by the state’s shield laws, which protects abortion and reproductive health care providers from lawsuits relating to providing medication abortions to out-of-state patients.  

    “As abortion rights face relentless attacks at every level of government, women across the country are being inundated with a maze of laws and false and misleading information about their reproductive healthcare options,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. “I’m proud to reintroduce the Abortion Care Awareness Act to ensure every woman has access to accurate, trusted information about their rights and available care. No woman should be deceived by bad actors seeking to interfere with her personal medical decisions.” 

    Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett said, “Women across the country, but especially in abortion restrictive states like my state of Texas, have been the targets to mis- and dis-information campaign at the hands of far-right anti-abortion groups. Women should be able to have quick access to know their rights and be provided accurate the type of care available to them to then make their very personal decision of what to do with their bodies. That is why I am proud to reintroduce the Abortion Care Awareness Act of 2025 to protect women’s right to decide with medically accurate and complete information about abortion.” 

    The ‘Abortion Care Awareness Act’ would direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to carry out a coordinated national public health education, awareness, and outreach campaign to provide accurate information regarding where and how to access abortion care, the right to travel across state lines and utilize telemedicine to access abortion care, how to identify misinformation about abortion, and more. The campaign would be designed in consultation with health care professionals, nonprofit reproductive rights and justice organizations, state and local health departments, and other experts. 

    The bill would also include information on how to identify and avoid crisis pregnancy centers which market themselves as abortion clinics or comprehensive reproductive health care providers to women in vulnerable and emotionally fragile positions, intentionally targeting low-income communities and communities of color. Once under their care, these centers use aggressive rhetoric and manipulative means to coerce them into carrying their pregnancies to full term, jeopardizing their health, well-being, and trust in health care providers. 

    According to the University of Georgia’s Crisis Pregnancy Center Map, there are 10 crisis pregnancy centers in New York City alone, outnumbering the number of Planned Parenthood locations in the city. 

    Congressman Dan Goldman is committed to protecting abortion access across the country and combatting abortion misinformation. 

    In March 2024, the Congressman cosponsored the ‘Stop Anti-Abortion Disinformation (SAD) Act’ to stop crisis pregnancy centers organizations from using deceptive advertisements claiming to offer reproductive health care. The SAD Act would direct the Federal Trade Commission to prohibit unfair or deceptive advertising related to the provisions of abortion services and authorize the FTC to enforce these rules and collect penalties from organizations in violation.  
    In March 2023, the Congressman cosponsored the ‘Women’s Health Protection Act,’ which establishes a federal right for healthcare professionals to provide abortion care and the right for their patients to receive care, free from bans and medically unnecessary restrictions that single out abortion care. The ‘Women’s Health Protection Act’ codifies and expands upon the rights established in Roe v. Wade. 

     

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Securing a greener future with cleaner maritime technology

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Securing a greener future with cleaner maritime technology

    The Maritime and Coastguard Agency has been supporting the Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC).

    Image from FastRig

    The Maritime and Coastguard Agency has been at the forefront of The Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC), a government-funded initiative to support the delivery of net zero emissions across the maritime industry.  

    Delivered by Innovate UK on behalf of the Department for Transport’s UK Shipping Office for Reducing Emissions (UK SHORE) programme, each iteration of the scheme awards funds in areas of green technology, decarbonisation and skills development.  

    CMDC round 6 is currently open for bidders until Wednesday 16 April, and invites UK-registered organisations to apply for their share of a £30 million fund to pitch and develop innovative clean maritime technologies and skills.  

    HQ Consultant Surveyor Gwen Lancaster has been involved with the competition since its early stages. Gwen has helped provide the programme with technical and specialist maritime insight.  

    Essentially, the CMDC provides funding to projects that progress innovative ideas and concepts,” she says.  

    The MCA provides technical maritime advice and insight to the programme, guiding both the technology focus and advising on aspects and areas that require certification, surveying or regulatory compliance.

    We’re able to consider the regulatory pathway and how entirely new products or inventions can be certified according to our processes and standards.

    Previous rounds of the CMDC have funded a diverse range of projects, covering future fuels such as hydrogen and ammonia, electrification of vessels and energy efficiency alongside feasibility studies exploring concepts like UK green shipping corridors in support of the Clydebank Declaration.

    MCA’s role in delivery of this programme is particularly key when a project involves the integration of an innovative technology with an existing ship, as a recent example the MCA supported the integration and subsequent sea-trials of a 20m wing sail developed by a consortium led by Smart Green Shipping, with the sail being retrofit to the UK-flagged Pacific Grebe.  

    The sail, which operates autonomously, has the potential to reduce energy demand and fuel consumption significantly, cutting operating costs and CO2 emissions while aiding UK decarbonisation efforts.  

    Gwen, who was part of the vessel’s survey and inspection team, said:

    As the FastRig wing sail was retrofitted for use on a commercial vessel, it required technical input from MCA Surveyors as well as the vessels Classification Society Lloyd’s Register. 

    It’s a complex and thorough process but it is essential that all the necessary steps are followed to ensure that the invention is correctly certified, all safety considerations are made, and relevant legislation is followed.  

    Our Marine Office audited and inspected the vessel, which was then able to head to Southampton for demonstration and sea trials.

    Decarbonisation of the shipping industry is a key priority for both UK and International shipping, and the MCA is committed to supporting safe, sustainable innovation across the sector.

    Press office

    Email public.relations@mcga.gov.uk

    Press enquiries (Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm) 0203 817 2222

    Outside these hours or on bank holidays and weekends, for media enquiries ONLY, please send an email outlining your query and putting #Urgent in the subject title.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Macon Man Sentenced to Prison for Robbing Credit Unions

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MACON, Ga. – A Macon resident who brandished a firearm during two bank robberies and an attempted bank robbery in 2022—causing victims to suffer panic attacks and stealing a total of $38,274—was sentenced to prison this week.

    Felix Cordes, 58, was sentenced to serve 97 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release and ordered to pay restitution of $38,274 by U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell on April 2. Cordes previously pleaded guilty to one count of bank robbery on Jan. 2. There is no parole in the federal system.

    “Criminal offenders who instill fear in our community by conducting bank robberies will face consequences for their actions,” said Acting U.S. Attorney C. Shanelle Booker. “Our office is committed to working with law enforcement to bring the most dangerous criminals to justice.”

    “Cordes terrified innocent employees and customers at three businesses throughout his crime spree,” said Paul Brown, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “We are extremely grateful that no one was physically hurt or killed during these violent robberies and thankful that Cordes is off our streets receiving the sentencing he deserves.”

    “Felix Cordes was a ruthless and relentless criminal who possibly could have killed innocent bank employees had he not been stopped by the diligent work of investigators,” said Bibb County Sheriff David Davis. “We are grateful that justice is served, and he will be held accountable for spreading mayhem in our community.”

    According to the court documents and statements referenced in court, Cordes robbed MidSouth Community Federal Credit Union in Macon on April 2, 2022. Cordes attempted to disguise himself in overalls, a bandana and sunglasses. He approached the bank tellers on staff and brandished a handgun, ordering the tellers to “take the money out.” He went behind the counter, pulled cash out of two drawers, placed the money in a bag and left the scene. Some tellers experienced panic attacks from intimidation caused by Cordes. Cordes used some of the stolen money to purchase two cell phones at a Boost Mobile store.

    With the aid of an accomplice, Cordes robbed the Central Georgia Regional Credit Union in Macon on May 2, 2022. Wearing blue latex gloves and brandishing a firearm, he stole cash from the bank. He attempted to commit a third robbery on May 24, 2022, at another MidSouth Community Federal Credit Union location in Macon. This attempt was unsuccessful because bank staff saw Cordes and an accomplice–both wearing masks–approach the bank with a silver handgun drawn. The staff was able to lock down the bank and thwart the robbery attempt; no money was stolen. Law enforcement executed a search warrant at a residence used by Cordes on April 6, 2022, and found a bandana matching the one seen on video during the first MidSouth Bank robbery video, blue latex gloves like those worn by Cordes during the second robbery, boxes corresponding to the cellphones purchased from Boost Mobile with the stolen money and a box of 9-millimeter ammunition. Cordes stole a total of $38,274 from the two credit unions.

    This case was investigated by FBI and the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Joy Odom prosecuted the case for the Government.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EU funds 149 doctoral programmes in research and innovation

    Source: European Union 2

    The European Commission will support 149 doctoral programmes to train and develop the skills of over 1800 doctoral candidates. 

    The European Commission has announced the results of the 2024 Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Doctoral Networks call.

    The Commission will fund a total of 149 excellent doctoral programmes with €608.6 million to train over 1800 doctoral candidates in and outside academia.

    €536.9 million will be awarded to 133 standard Doctoral programmes, to train PhD candidates and develop their skills.

    Funding includes also €26 million for 8 Industrial Doctoral programmes to train PhD candidates and develop their skills outside academia, including in industry and business. Doctoral candidates will also benefit from joint industry-academia supervision.

    An additional €33 million will be allocated to 8 Joint Doctoral programmes, which promote joint selection, training and supervision leading to joint or multiple doctoral degrees.

    The European Research Executive Agency (REA) received 1,417 applications for this call. This means a success rate of 10.6 %.

    Close collaboration beyond academia

    These doctoral programmes are implemented by international partnerships, involving 9335 organisations in 130 countries in the EU, Horizon Europe associated countries and beyond. 4725 of these are private for-profit entities.

    Selected projects are coordinated by organisations in 18 countries.

    A list with all funded projects and coordinating organisations is available in CIRCABC. Please note that this list reflects the results of the evaluation before the Grant Agreement Preparation and formal selection decision.

    Frontier research in all fields

    Selected projects will promote research in fields such as  

    • advanced strategies towards energy-neutral wastewater treatment
    • bringing rehabilitation robots to clinical practice or quantum-inspired
    • climate-aware approaches to real estate value and valuation  

    Industrial Doctorates will train doctoral candidates in areas such as  

    • the use of artificial intelligence in Parkinson’s disease  
    • the development of autonomous robots that are able to comply with social conventions and expectations  
    • photocatalytic industrial applications  

    Joint Doctorates will develop programmes focusing for example on  

    • building capacity for healthy adaptation to pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood
    • privacy for smart speech technology  
    • on how to deal with challenges related to migration

    The projects selected are in the following broad fields. 

    An overview of the evaluation results, cut-off scores and statistics has been published on the MSCA Doctoral Networks 2024 call page.

    Once the grant agreements are finalised, the complete list of funded projects will be published on the MSCA Doctoral Networks 2024 call page and on CORDIS.

    Next steps for successful applicants

    The European Research Executive Agency sent out letters on the results of the evaluation to inform applicants of the outcome of the selection. Applicants should be able to access the results of the evaluation in their personal area of the Funding and Tenders Opportunities Portal.  

    The letter sent out to the successful applicants contains all the instructions about the next steps to prepare the grant agreement with the agency.

    The first projects will start at the earliest in summer 2025. Projects on the reserve list may be contacted once all the grants have been signed.

    Next funding round and information day

    The next call for MSCA Doctoral Networks will open on 28 May 2025.  

    An information day will take place on 24 June 2025. 

    In the meantime, you may find more information on our how to apply page.

    About the MSCA Doctoral Networks programme

    MSCA Doctoral Networks implement doctoral programmes by partnerships of organisations from different sectors across Europe and beyond. They train highly skilled doctoral candidates, stimulate their creativity, enhance their innovation capacities and boost their employability in the long term.

    More information

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: 36 000 free EU travel passes for 18-year-olds

    Source: European Union 2

    It’s time for a new DiscoverEU round! Nearly 36 000 free passes are available to 18-year-olds to travel across Europe by train for up to 30 days, from July 2025 to September 2026. Applicants must be born between July 2006 and June 2007 and live an Erasmus+ country. Apply by 16 April.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to SACN statement on the WHO guideline on non-sugar sweeteners

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Scientists comment on a SACN statement on the WHO’s guideline on non-sugar sweeteners (NSS). 

    Dr Havovi Chichger, Senior Lecturer in Biomedical Science, Anglia Ruskin University, said:

    “The SACN recommendations published in their position statement this morning are highly appropriate given the WHO report and research findings in the field.  The committee recommends that children not be given drinks containing non-nutritive sweeteners and that adults work towards a sweetener-free diet.  Although the use of non-nutritive sweeteners is an important tool to reduce sugar overconsumption, and the related negative health effects, we now understand that these sweet additives can pose various health risks on the public.  It might seem contradictory, but studies have shown that all commercially-available sweeteners are associated with the development of obesity and diabetes, potentially through a metabolic disruption pathway (Bonnet 2018; McLay-Cooke 2016; Stamataki 2020).  The SACN position statement also recommends that the government monitor the amount of non-nutritive sweeteners in the UK diet and encourage the food and drink industry to clearly communicate the amount of sweeteners within labelling.  These recommendations are based on an in-depth review of studies in the field however these studies do not always specify which sweeteners were consumed.  There are also confounding factors to be considered, for example, the studies show a link between sweetener consumption and negative health outcomes which could be due to underlying and undetected health conditions rather than the sweetener itself.  As such, there is a real need for large-scale studies in the field to understand the direct causative effect of non-nutritive sweeteners on human health.”

    Prof Naveed Sattar, Professor of Cardiometabolic Medicine/Honorary Consultant, University of Glasgow, said:

    “I think this is a very balanced statement.  SACN have accepted that the best quality evidence available (i.e. randomised trials) show that non-sugar sweeteners (NSS) lower weight albeit modestly as compared to taking sugar rich drinks and that other types of evidence which suggest some harm from NSS are unreliable.  I fully agree and would rather people take low calorie drinks with artificial sweeteners every time than sugar rich drinks both for weight and dental benefits and potentially other gains.  However, SACN also correctly points out that until we have more evidence in the future on benefits and safety of NSS, it would be best to limit the intake of all such sweetened (including NSS) drinks in early childhood so that children become accustomed to drinking unsweetened drinks, preferably water.  A sensible and mature summary of a complex set of data.”

    https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/sacn-statement-on-the-who-guideline-on-non-sugar-sweeteners/sacn-statement-on-the-who-guideline-on-non-sugar-sweeteners-summary#sacns-assessment

    https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/67ea97b3ea9f8afd8105627d/sacn-position-statement-on-non-sugar-sweeteners.pdf

    Declared interests

    Dr Havovi Chichger: “Prof Chichger has no conflict of interest or other in this review.”

    Prof Naveed Sattar: “Only that I often drink diluting juice with NSS.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: New Permanent Representative of Guinea Presents Credentials

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    (Based on information provided by the Protocol and Liaison Service)

    The new Permanent Representative of Guinea to the United Nations, Mohamed Dabo, presented his credentials to UN Secretary-General António Guterres today.

    Prior to his appointment, Mr. Dabo served in his country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Integration and Guineans Living Abroad as Coordinator of Economic Diplomacy, Strategic Intelligence and International Cooperation, from January 2022 to December 2024.

    Before that, from April 2019 to January 2022, he served in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, African Integration and Guineans Abroad, as Adviser responsible for diaspora and international careers.

    From October 2017 to April 2019, he served as a member of the Minister’s cabinet and Special Assistant to the Minister in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Guineans Abroad.  Before that, from August 2013 to October 2017, he served in the Permanent Mission of Guinea to the United Nations as First Secretary and Special Assistant to the Permanent Representative.

    Mr. Dabo holds a master’s degree in political science, policies and strategies of international public action and a bachelor’s degree in political science, international relations and security defence, both from the University Jean Moulin Lyon 3, France.  He also holds a degree in law and political science from the University Lumière Lyon 2 and a degree in law from the University of Lille 2, both in France.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: European Life Settlement Association Announces Date for the Secondary Life Markets Conference 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    London, UK, April 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The European Life Settlement Association (ELSA), the leading European industry group promoting and supporting the life settlement industry, has today announced the date for the 2025 edition of the Secondary Life Markets Conference (SLM 25).

    The European Life Settlement Association (ELSA)

    After the success of hosting the event in Stockholm, Sweden in 2024, the leading European life settlement conference heads to the offices of EY in Zurich, Switzerland, on Monday, 15th September.

    As with previous editions of the conference, SLM 25 will provide cutting-edge insights into the prevailing challenges and opportunities that lay in front of the asset managers, investors and service providers in the life settlement industry via a series of panel discussions and presentations by industry leaders from both sides of the Atlantic.

    “We are delighted to be going to Zurich in September for the Secondary Life Markets Conference,” said Chris Wells, Executive Director at ELSA.

    “The positive feedback we received from taking the event to Stockholm last year, coupled with the significant presence our market has in Zurich and Switzerland more broadly, naturally led us to select Switzerland’s economic engine as the location for this year’s event. The ELSA executive looks forward to seeing both returning attendees, and new ones, in Zurich in September.”

    Alongside the announcement of the date and venue for SLM 25, ELSA is now taking suggestions for panel and presentation topics, and sponsorship opportunities are also available, so please contact Chris Wells at [email protected] for more information.

    The event website will be live before the end of April, when the super early bird ticket price will also be available. Bookmark https://secondarylifemarkets.com/ or visit https://elsa-sls.org/ to sign up to receive the ELSA newsletter, which includes conference updates, industry updates, and more.

    Secondary Life Markets Conference 2025

    About European Life Settlement Association

    Founded in 2009, the European Life Settlement Association (ELSA) is dedicated to promoting transparency through the collaborative development of industry standards and by providing accurate, authoritative information to investors, regulators and the media. ELSA represents both European-based asset managers and service providers in the life settlement market, and non-European firms that have European clients in the life settlement space.

    Press inquiries

    European Life Settlement Association
    https://elsa-sls.org/
    Christopher Wells
    admin@elsa-sls.org

    The MIL Network –