Source: Government of Sweden
A new initiative is launched today during the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Italy. The Rome Declaration for Science, Research and Innovation in Ukraine will support the reconstruction and modernisation of Ukraine’s science and research ecosystem. Sweden is one of the founding members to the initiative.
Source: Government of Sweden
A new initiative is launched today during the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Italy. The Rome Declaration for Science, Research and Innovation in Ukraine will support the reconstruction and modernisation of Ukraine’s science and research ecosystem. Sweden is one of the founding members to the initiative.
Source: Scottish Government
Games are part of a four-year pipeline of major events.
The largest event ever hosted in Orkney begins today, as part of four years of international sport in Scotland which are expected to attract tens of thousands of visitors and provide a significant economic boost.
Orkney is welcoming more than 1,600 athletes from 24 island groups for the 20th International Island Games, which run until 18 July. Orkney is the smallest island group to ever host the Games and competitors have come from as far afield as the Falklands, the Cayman Islands, Saaremaa in Estonia and Åland in Finland.
It is the first of a series of high-profile sporting events being hosted in Scotland, which include this weekend’s Genesis Scottish Open, the 2026 Commonwealth Games, the 2027 Grand Départ of the Tour de France, the 2027 Open Championship and the 2028 UEFA European football championships.
The Scottish Government invests in major events to maximise local and national economic benefits. At the end of 2024, it was revealed that the last Open Championship in Scotland added more than £300 million to the economy, highlighting the scale of opportunity for the next four years.
Business Minister Richard Lochhead said:
“The Orkney Island Games represent a significant opportunity to drive economic growth and build a lasting legacy for people and businesses in Orkney and beyond.
“They also provide a taste of what is to come and illustrate our wider ambition to make sure every corner of Scotland benefits from the prestigious events we are increasingly able to attract.
“This is a team effort and the benefits go way beyond the events themselves. The global platform they provide enables us to highlight Scotland to tourists, businesses and potential inward investors across the world.”
Background
Information about the Orkney 2025 International Island Games is available online.
Source: United Nations 4
The new Permanent Representative of Lao People’s Democratic Republic to the United Nations, Thongphane Savanphet, presented his credentials to UN Secretary-General António Guterres today.
(As provided by the Protocol and Liaison Service)
Date of Birth: 28 June 1964
Place of Birth: Bolikhamxay Province, Lao PDR
Marital Status: Married to Mrs. Dalavanh SAVANPHET and has three daughters
Education and Training:
1997-1998 – M.A. in Diplomatic Studies, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
1983-1988 – M.A. in Public International Law, Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO University), Moscow, Russia (Former Soviet Union)
1990 – English Training Course, University of Canberra, Canberra, Australia
1982-1983 – Russian Language, Institute of Foreign Languages, Kiev, Ukraine (Former Soviet Union)
1970-1982 – Primary and High Schools completed in Bolikhamxay Province, Lao PDR
Employment:
Sept 2016-Present – Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs
2013- 2016 – Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the Lao PDR to the United Nations Office, WTO and other International Organizations in Geneva;
– Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Lao PDR to Switzerland; and Non-resident Ambassador of the Lao PDR to the Hellenic Republic (Greece), the Republic of Italy, the Principality of Liechtenstein, the Republic of Malta and the Republic of Turkey
2011-2013 – Director-General, Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), Vientiane, Lao PDR
2010-2011 – Deputy Director-General, Department of Economic Affairs, MFA
2002-2010 – Assistant Director/Head, ASEAN Political Cooperation Division (2009 -2010) and ASEAN Plus Three (China, Japan and Republic of Korea) Division (2007-2009); Senior Officer and Coordinator, ASEAN Plus Three Unit (2003-2006); and Senior Officer, Social Development Unit (2002-2003), ASEAN Secretariat, Jakarta, Indonesia
1996-2002 – Director (2001-2002), Deputy Director (1999-2001) and Official (1996-1999), ASEAN Political and Security Cooperation Division, Department of ASEAN Affairs, MFA
1993-1996 – Third Secretary, Embassy of the Lao PDR, Canberra, Australia
1989-1993 – Official, Department of International Organizations, MFA
Others:
– Governor for the Lao PDR to the Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF) (Singapore) (2011-2013)
– Council Director for the Lao PDR to the ASEAN-Japan Centre (Tokyo, Japan) ) (2011-2013)
– Council Member for the Lao PDR to the Mekong Institute (Khon Kaen, Thailand) ) (2011-2013)
Foreign Languages: English, Russian
Source: United Nations MIL OSI b
The new Permanent Representative of Peru to the United Nations, Gustavo Lino Adrianzén Olaya, presented his credentials to UN Secretary-General António Guterres today.
(As provided by the Protocol and Liaison Service)
Gustavo Lino Adrianzén Olaya is a distinguished Peruvian lawyer and the current Permanent Representative of Peru to the United Nations (UN) since 1 July 2025.
Throughout his career, he has held several high-level positions within the Peruvian Government, including President of the Council of Ministers (March 2024 – May 2025) and Minister of Justice and Human Rights (April – October 2015). He previously served as Vice-Minister of Justice, as well as Public Prosecutor in the Ministry of Defense, and Specialized Public Prosecutor of the National Police of Peru.
From February 2023 to March 2024, he served as Peru’s Permanent Representative to the Organization of American States (OAS).
He holds a law degree from the University of Lima and a master’s degree in public administration and management from Spain’s National Institute of Public Administration. He also earned an officially recognized law degree from the University of Alcalá de Henares in Spain. His academic background is further enriched by postgraduate studies in human rights at specialized institutions in Geneva, Strasbourg, San José de Costa Rica and Florence.
In October 2015, he was awarded the Order of Merit for Distinguished Services in the rank of Grand Cross in recognition of his public service.
For information media. Not an official record.
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
KOSICE, Slovakia, July 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Remittix, a rising decentralized finance (DeFi) project focused on seamless crypto-to-fiat payments, has successfully completed a comprehensive security audit conducted by Certik, a leading blockchain security firm. This achievement marks a key step toward the official launch of Remittix’s PayFi infrastructure—a next-generation payment protocol designed to streamline crypto settlements directly to bank accounts.
The Certik Audit, which found no critical vulnerabilities in Remittix’s smart contracts, reinforces the project’s commitment to secure and compliant development practices. The audit report provides public assurance to investors and ecosystem partners that the platform is built on a solid, tamper-resistant foundation.
“We are proud to announce the successful completion of our Certik audit, which validates the integrity of the Remittix ecosystem,” said a Remittix spokesperson. “This milestone not only confirms the strength of our smart contract architecture but also paves the way for broader institutional partnerships and regulatory alignment as we move toward the next phase of growth.”
Remittix is building an innovative layer in the PayFi (Payment Finance) sector, addressing long-standing challenges in crypto usability. Its platform is designed to enable direct crypto-to-fiat transactions, allowing users to send digital assets that convert instantly into fiat currencies and settle in recipients’ bank accounts—without requiring KYC on the receiver’s side. This mechanism offers both speed and privacy while maintaining compliance and transparency on the sender’s end.
With the security assurance from Certik in place, Remittix is accelerating development and strategic integrations with local payment networks and financial providers. These developments are expected to enhance its utility across both developed and emerging markets.
“Our mission is to simplify digital finance while ensuring user security remains uncompromised,” the spokesperson added. “The audit completion is a key validation of that promise, and we’re excited to move forward with confidence.”
Currently in presale, the Remittix token is gaining attention for its practical use case, streamlined onboarding process, and infrastructure readiness for mass adoption. As the platform prepares for launch, the team is focused on onboarding early adopters and strengthening ecosystem partnerships.
To learn more about Remittix or participate in the ongoing presale, please visit:
Website: https://remittix.io
Socials: https://linktr.ee/remittix
About Remittix
Remittix is a decentralized payment solution designed to bridge the gap between crypto and traditional banking. Its core platform enables real-time crypto-to-fiat transfers, offering seamless access to everyday payments via blockchain technology.
Contact:
Andy Černý
andy@remittix.io
Disclaimer: This content is provided by Remittix. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.
Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4416afe4-d6d6-45fe-b705-f43d278d6011
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
KOSICE, Slovakia, July 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Remittix, a rising decentralized finance (DeFi) project focused on seamless crypto-to-fiat payments, has successfully completed a comprehensive security audit conducted by Certik, a leading blockchain security firm. This achievement marks a key step toward the official launch of Remittix’s PayFi infrastructure—a next-generation payment protocol designed to streamline crypto settlements directly to bank accounts.
The Certik Audit, which found no critical vulnerabilities in Remittix’s smart contracts, reinforces the project’s commitment to secure and compliant development practices. The audit report provides public assurance to investors and ecosystem partners that the platform is built on a solid, tamper-resistant foundation.
“We are proud to announce the successful completion of our Certik audit, which validates the integrity of the Remittix ecosystem,” said a Remittix spokesperson. “This milestone not only confirms the strength of our smart contract architecture but also paves the way for broader institutional partnerships and regulatory alignment as we move toward the next phase of growth.”
Remittix is building an innovative layer in the PayFi (Payment Finance) sector, addressing long-standing challenges in crypto usability. Its platform is designed to enable direct crypto-to-fiat transactions, allowing users to send digital assets that convert instantly into fiat currencies and settle in recipients’ bank accounts—without requiring KYC on the receiver’s side. This mechanism offers both speed and privacy while maintaining compliance and transparency on the sender’s end.
With the security assurance from Certik in place, Remittix is accelerating development and strategic integrations with local payment networks and financial providers. These developments are expected to enhance its utility across both developed and emerging markets.
“Our mission is to simplify digital finance while ensuring user security remains uncompromised,” the spokesperson added. “The audit completion is a key validation of that promise, and we’re excited to move forward with confidence.”
Currently in presale, the Remittix token is gaining attention for its practical use case, streamlined onboarding process, and infrastructure readiness for mass adoption. As the platform prepares for launch, the team is focused on onboarding early adopters and strengthening ecosystem partnerships.
To learn more about Remittix or participate in the ongoing presale, please visit:
Website: https://remittix.io
Socials: https://linktr.ee/remittix
About Remittix
Remittix is a decentralized payment solution designed to bridge the gap between crypto and traditional banking. Its core platform enables real-time crypto-to-fiat transfers, offering seamless access to everyday payments via blockchain technology.
Contact:
Andy Černý
andy@remittix.io
Disclaimer: This content is provided by Remittix. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.
Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4416afe4-d6d6-45fe-b705-f43d278d6011
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
KOSICE, Slovakia, July 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Remittix, a rising decentralized finance (DeFi) project focused on seamless crypto-to-fiat payments, has successfully completed a comprehensive security audit conducted by Certik, a leading blockchain security firm. This achievement marks a key step toward the official launch of Remittix’s PayFi infrastructure—a next-generation payment protocol designed to streamline crypto settlements directly to bank accounts.
The Certik Audit, which found no critical vulnerabilities in Remittix’s smart contracts, reinforces the project’s commitment to secure and compliant development practices. The audit report provides public assurance to investors and ecosystem partners that the platform is built on a solid, tamper-resistant foundation.
“We are proud to announce the successful completion of our Certik audit, which validates the integrity of the Remittix ecosystem,” said a Remittix spokesperson. “This milestone not only confirms the strength of our smart contract architecture but also paves the way for broader institutional partnerships and regulatory alignment as we move toward the next phase of growth.”
Remittix is building an innovative layer in the PayFi (Payment Finance) sector, addressing long-standing challenges in crypto usability. Its platform is designed to enable direct crypto-to-fiat transactions, allowing users to send digital assets that convert instantly into fiat currencies and settle in recipients’ bank accounts—without requiring KYC on the receiver’s side. This mechanism offers both speed and privacy while maintaining compliance and transparency on the sender’s end.
With the security assurance from Certik in place, Remittix is accelerating development and strategic integrations with local payment networks and financial providers. These developments are expected to enhance its utility across both developed and emerging markets.
“Our mission is to simplify digital finance while ensuring user security remains uncompromised,” the spokesperson added. “The audit completion is a key validation of that promise, and we’re excited to move forward with confidence.”
Currently in presale, the Remittix token is gaining attention for its practical use case, streamlined onboarding process, and infrastructure readiness for mass adoption. As the platform prepares for launch, the team is focused on onboarding early adopters and strengthening ecosystem partnerships.
To learn more about Remittix or participate in the ongoing presale, please visit:
Website: https://remittix.io
Socials: https://linktr.ee/remittix
About Remittix
Remittix is a decentralized payment solution designed to bridge the gap between crypto and traditional banking. Its core platform enables real-time crypto-to-fiat transfers, offering seamless access to everyday payments via blockchain technology.
Contact:
Andy Černý
andy@remittix.io
Disclaimer: This content is provided by Remittix. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.
Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4416afe4-d6d6-45fe-b705-f43d278d6011
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
KOSICE, Slovakia, July 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Remittix, a rising decentralized finance (DeFi) project focused on seamless crypto-to-fiat payments, has successfully completed a comprehensive security audit conducted by Certik, a leading blockchain security firm. This achievement marks a key step toward the official launch of Remittix’s PayFi infrastructure—a next-generation payment protocol designed to streamline crypto settlements directly to bank accounts.
The Certik Audit, which found no critical vulnerabilities in Remittix’s smart contracts, reinforces the project’s commitment to secure and compliant development practices. The audit report provides public assurance to investors and ecosystem partners that the platform is built on a solid, tamper-resistant foundation.
“We are proud to announce the successful completion of our Certik audit, which validates the integrity of the Remittix ecosystem,” said a Remittix spokesperson. “This milestone not only confirms the strength of our smart contract architecture but also paves the way for broader institutional partnerships and regulatory alignment as we move toward the next phase of growth.”
Remittix is building an innovative layer in the PayFi (Payment Finance) sector, addressing long-standing challenges in crypto usability. Its platform is designed to enable direct crypto-to-fiat transactions, allowing users to send digital assets that convert instantly into fiat currencies and settle in recipients’ bank accounts—without requiring KYC on the receiver’s side. This mechanism offers both speed and privacy while maintaining compliance and transparency on the sender’s end.
With the security assurance from Certik in place, Remittix is accelerating development and strategic integrations with local payment networks and financial providers. These developments are expected to enhance its utility across both developed and emerging markets.
“Our mission is to simplify digital finance while ensuring user security remains uncompromised,” the spokesperson added. “The audit completion is a key validation of that promise, and we’re excited to move forward with confidence.”
Currently in presale, the Remittix token is gaining attention for its practical use case, streamlined onboarding process, and infrastructure readiness for mass adoption. As the platform prepares for launch, the team is focused on onboarding early adopters and strengthening ecosystem partnerships.
To learn more about Remittix or participate in the ongoing presale, please visit:
Website: https://remittix.io
Socials: https://linktr.ee/remittix
About Remittix
Remittix is a decentralized payment solution designed to bridge the gap between crypto and traditional banking. Its core platform enables real-time crypto-to-fiat transfers, offering seamless access to everyday payments via blockchain technology.
Contact:
Andy Černý
andy@remittix.io
Disclaimer: This content is provided by Remittix. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.
Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4416afe4-d6d6-45fe-b705-f43d278d6011
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen
**A top member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, Shaheen built on her years-long legacy of securing key New Hampshire priorities, as well as measures that address America’s top security challenges**
(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a top member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, helped advance the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) – annual defense legislation that authorizes Pentagon priorities and programs for the next fiscal year. The bill was approved by the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) in a bipartisan vote.
As a senior member of SASC, Senator Shaheen’s additions to the defense bill address both America’s top national security objectives, while also enhancing New Hampshire’s role in support of our national defense.
“With Secretary Hegseth at the helm of the Pentagon, it’s more critical this year than ever that Congress uses the annual defense bill to assert its oversight authority and advance policy to improve the lives of service members. The legislation cleared by the Senate Armed Services Committee this week is not perfect but includes many of my provisions to put guardrails on Secretary Hegseth’s harmful policies, including to protect the shipyard workforce from hiring freezes, ensure President Trump’s trade war isn’t passing the price of defense contracts onto the taxpayer, to make sure promised military assistance continues to flow to Ukraine in their fight for democracy and freedom and protect U.S. basing in Europe, the Middle East and the Indo Pacific.” said Senator Shaheen. “I was also proud to secure provisions that support New Hampshire’s defense industry and good-paying jobs, improve service members’ access to affordable child care and housing, invest in Portsmouth Naval Shipyard’s capacity and more.”
The Committee-passed bill now moves to the full Senate before it is conferenced with the U.S. House of Representatives. Below is a summary of top New Hampshire and national security priorities secured by Shaheen in the FY 2026 NDAA.
Protecting the Public Shipyard Workforce
Senator Shaheen led a provision to ensure the chaos and confusion that ensued from Secretary Hegseth’s Department of Defense (DoD) civilian hiring freeze does not happen again. The legislation will protect thousands of jobs integral to America’s national security at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and public shipyards across the nation.
The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is a key economic driver in the region, supporting thousands of jobs integral to America’s national security. After calls from Shaheen and Senator Susan Collins (R-ME), DoD claimed to have exempted the shipyard workforce from the civilian hiring freeze, but issues persist in implementation. Shaheen’s provision will make this exemption final and addresses hiring delays that Portsmouth Naval Shipyard has continued to face.
Reassuring America’s Allies and Partners
Standing with Ukraine:
Senator Shaheen has consistently worked to ensure the delivery of military, humanitarian and economic assistance to Ukraine as they fight for their freedom and democracy amid Putin’s war of aggression.
The Committee-passed NDAA includes a reauthorization of the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, Department of Defense’s authority to equip the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Shaheen also secured language prohibiting the diversion of military equipment obligated for Ukraine after the Pentagon’s misguided decision, since overruled by President Trump.
The Committee-passed bill also includes Shaheen-authored amendments that allow the continued sharing of U.S. information, intelligence and imagery to support the Ukrainian Armed Forces on the battlefield and prevent cuts to security cooperation funding for U.S. forces in Europe.
Supporting NATO Allies and Enhancing Global Partnerships:
Shaheen also secured provisions that send a strong message of commitment to North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Allies and other U.S. partners abroad. Her legislation requires the executive branch to consult with Congress and our NATO Allies before any attempt to abdicate the Commander of U.S. European Command’s dual role of Supreme Allied Commander Europe. This comes after Shaheen pressed senior U.S. military officials on the importance of this U.S. responsibility at NATO. An American general has also served as Supreme Allied Commander of NATO Forces in Europe since General Dwight Eisenhower assumed the role following the establishment of the NATO alliance.
The bill includes legislation led by Shaheen requiring the Pentagon to consult with Congress before making changes to U.S. military force posture in Europe and on the Korean Peninsula. U.S. presence in Europe and the Indo Pacific deters adversaries and strengthens our alliances. This legislation will require the Secretary of Defense to certify to Congress that he has consulted the Secretary of State, Director of National Intelligence, senior U.S. military officers in the theaters and officials from regional governments—including NATO Allies, South Korea, Japan and others—before reducing our force presence in Europe or South Korea.
Shaheen also prevented the further consolidation of U.S. military bases in Syria—a move that helps to prevent a resurgence of ISIS influence in the region following the establishment of a new, post-Assad Syrian government.
Protecting Defense Supply Chains from Reckless Tariffs
The bill includes Senator Shaheen’s amendment that would require the Department of Defense to assess the impact of the Trump administration’s tariffs on the defense supply chain and protect current regulations that are providing relief to small businesses in the defense industrial base.
Shaheen has been vocal in her concerns about the administration’s trade war and its impacts on America’s national defense and military readiness, including by calling on Secretary Hegseth to address how tariffs are impacting the Department’s purchasing power, weakening supply chains and raising costs on small businesses. This provision in the NDAA comes after Shaheen’s third annual bipartisan Congressional delegation to the largest trade show in the world, the Paris Air Show, where she heard concerns about the President’s trade war from allies, partners and the defense and civil aerospace industry. Following the Air Show, Shaheen penned an opinion piece in the Wall Street Journal..
Supporting Jobs and the New Hampshire National Guard
To bolster the civilian defense and national security workforce, Senator Shaheen secured an amendment in line with her Defense Workforce Integration Act. The bipartisan, bicameral Shaheen-led bill would leverage existing programs and best practices within the Department of Defense to address persistent workforce shortages by retaining the talent and motivation of those who desire to serve in uniform but are found to be medically disqualified.
As co-chair of the bipartisan U.S. Senate National Guard Caucus, Shaheen has long advocated on behalf of National Guard members. To strengthen the National Guard’s ability to protect and aid New Hampshire in times of crisis, Shaheen secured a provision in this year’s NDAA to help the National Guard retain quality commissioned and warrant officers and maintain increased levels of personnel readiness. Specifically, the amendment allows officers and warrant officers to transfer from active status in the Reserves to the Inactive National Guard.
Confronting the Challenges Posed by PFAS Contamination
Senator Shaheen successfully added an amendment to respond more quickly to the spread of PFAS contamination at certain military installations and surrounding communities where PFAS are discovered in existing water sources as a result of military activities. The policy requires the Department of Defense to take action to address contamination hotspots and provide safe drinking water to communities while the lengthier remedial investigation process moves forward. Shaheen also secured adoption of an amendment to clarify that DoD can use innovative technologies for destroying PFAS to provide more tools to address contamination.
Shaheen opposed amendments that were ultimately adopted to rescind the moratorium on PFAS incineration and prohibit the military from procuring a variety of items containing PFAS, including cookware used to prepare food in military galleys and furniture upholstery and carpeting for military installations. These provisions add unnecessary exposure to harmful toxins for service members and their families, increasing their chances of long-term health impacts.
Shaheen has worked for more than a decade to hold the Department of Defense responsible for remediation of PFAS contamination at military bases and ensure transparency for affected communities. Shaheen spearheaded the first nationwide PFAS health impact study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) that is in its final stages. Shaheen leads efforts in Congress to uncover the potential health effects related to PFAS contamination. Because of her efforts, Pease served as a model site for the nationwide study. Shaheen has also led efforts to improve the Defense Department’s transparency and engagement with local communities, improve safety of firefighting gear, phase out use of PFAS-laden firefighting foam and expand blood-testing for military firefighters exposed to PFAS. Shaheen also secured record funding to upgrade drinking water and wastewater infrastructure to address PFAS contamination in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law of 2021.
Defending and Strengthening Support for America’s Service Members and Their Families
Addressing Sexual Assault in the Military:
Senator Shaheen successfully fought for a provision to increase accountability and transparency for investigations into military sexual assault cases. The Committee-passed NDAA includes Shaheen’s amendment requiring the National Guard Bureau to provide an annual report on the number of Guardsmen who participate in Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) training each year.
Shaheen has championed efforts in the Senate to respond to and address sexual assault in the military. In the FY23 NDAA, she helped secure reforms that expanded the types of sexual misconduct offenses and addressed the role of military commanders’ convening authority power. She played a pivotal role in the adoption of historic reforms to the Uniform Code of Military Justice to address sexual assault in the military, including taking those offenses out of a service member’s chain of command.
Expanding Access to Child Care for Military Families:
Shaheen helped secure inclusion of a provision to expand child care access for military families by directing the Department of Defense to support the recruitment and retention of providers in order to build a future child care workforce and make long-term investments in child care providers. The provision also authorizes the Department of Defense to enter into an interagency partnership with a federal agency, such as AmeriCorps, to place national service participants and volunteers trained in education services at military child care centers.
The provision is based on bipartisan legislation Shaheen co-leads with Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA), the Expanding Access to Child Care for Military Families Act, to support workforce development opportunities for child care providers and to add capacity to the child care sector.
Addressing Service Members and Military Families’ Quality of Life:
To help service members and their families navigate the nation’s housing affordability crisis, Shaheen secured an amendment in the NDAA to improve DoD’s financial counseling offerings. To ensure service members learn about fees and other costs associated with homebuying, the provision allows Service Secretaries to work with U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development certified housing counselors and other qualified counselors to help service members and families.
Bolstering Mental Health Resources and Responses:
Shaheen helped secure a provision in line with her National Adverse Childhood Experiences Response Team (ACERT) Grant Program Authorization Act directing the DoD to study and report on establishing a program to address adverse childhood experiences associated with exposure to trauma by connecting law enforcement and first responders with local child specialists and professionals.
The legislation also includes Shaheen’s amendment to address the shortage of quality, accessible mental and behavioral health care for service members. Her provision requires DoD to assess where there are shortages in providers and the impact of those staffing shortages on service members.
Investing in Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and New England’s Shipbuilding Workforce
Senator Shaheen built on her long legacy of support for New England’s shipbuilding industry and workforce, including through authorizing funding and workforce development for the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. The Committee-approved FY26 NDAA includes full authorization for the Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program (SIOP) investments at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, which will expand the Shipyard’s capacity to maintain America’s fast-attack submarine fleet. As a member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations and Armed Services Committees, Senator Shaheen helped secure this funding beginning in the fiscal year 2019 funding legislation, which she has continued in ensuing years.
Shaheen also helped to authorize funding for increased reliability, resiliency and capacity to the existing electric and water utility systems primarily responsible for the nuclear support facilities at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Additionally, the bill authorizes $26 million for the construction of a new, state-of-the-art Readiness Center to support the New Hampshire National Guard in Plymouth, New Hampshire.
In addition, the bill reauthorizes funding for Virginia-class submarines, which are repaired at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Shaheen is a steadfast supporter of the Virginia-class program and is a fierce advocate for Shipyard priorities.
Shaheen also secured a provision aimed at improving the quality of life and bolstering recruitment and retention of employees at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and the country’s three other public shipyards. The Shaheen amendment requires DoD to assess the feasibility, costs and benefits of providing civilian employees with apartment-style or dormitory housing options. Shaheen also secured report language to encourage DoD to explore the feasibility of low-interest loans for maritime industrial base (MIB) suppliers.
Finally, the bill includes Shaheen’s legislation to extend direct hire authority to the Navy Supervisor of Shipbuilding, Conversion and Repair (SUPSHIP), which will give Navy the ability to fill these positions quickly, address workforce delays and reduce delays in submarine construction and maintenance.
Supporting Americans Affected by Directed Energy Attacks
Senator Shaheen built on her progress to ensure that all U.S. personnel and their loved ones suffering from anomalous health incidents (AHIs) – also known as “Havana Syndrome” or directed-energy attacks – get the medical attention they deserve. Shaheen successfully secured a provision that encourages the Department of Defense to supply the cross-functional team addressing AHIs with the resources that they need to provide those affected with necessary treatment and timely compensation under the Helping American Victims Affected by Neurological Attacks (HAVANA) Act of 2021. The amendment also urges the Department to redouble its efforts to identify emerging directed energy threats, understand their origin and develop countermeasures to defend against them.
Shaheen has been a leader in supporting American public servants who have incurred AHIs. In October 2021, President Biden signed legislation Shaheen helped lead, the Helping American Victims Afflicted by Neurological Attacks (HAVANA Act), into law. The law authorizes financial support to ensure medical care for those affected by AHIs. In the FY21 NDAA, Shaheen successfully included language to expand a provision in law that she previously wrote to provide long-term, emergency care benefits to all U.S. government employees and their dependents who were mysteriously injured while working in China and Cuba.
Bolstering Congressional Oversight and Reining in Wasteful Spending
In this year’s NDAA, Senator Shaheen secured several provisions to assert Congress’s oversight authority over the Trump administration and prohibit wasteful spending, including the use of Department of Defense resources for immigration enforcement activities. The bill requires DoD to notify Congress before using military airlift for immigration enforcement purposes and expands existing notifications to include requests for assistance in support of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) at Guantanamo Bay. In the first five months of migrant operations at Guantanamo Bay, DoD has already spent over $40 million providing non-reimbursable support to DHS.
Additionally, Shaheen included language in the NDAA urging DoD not to downgrade the U.S. Naval Hospital at Guantanamo Bay to a clinic. The hospital is the only source of health care for the over 6,000 active duty personnel, DoD civilians, family members, contract personnel and local and foreign national employees stationed at U.S. Naval Base Guantanamo Bay (NSGB).
The provisions come after Shaheen joined a Congressional delegation to Guantanamo Bay in March of this year after the Pentagon refused to answer Congressional oversight questions on its support to DHS’s new migrant operations there.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen
(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a top member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee and Ranking Member of the U.S. Foreign Relations Committee, applauded the inclusion of her provision that would put up guardrails to prevent the Pentagon from diverting assistance to Ukraine in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that advanced out of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC). The amendment comes after the Pentagon’s misguided decision to divert vital military aid for Ukraine last week and eventual reversal by President Trump.
Specifically, Shaheen’s amendment prevents the U.S. Department of Defense from accepting back into stock or diverting equipment that was put on contract for Ukraine under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI). The Committee-passed bill also includes Shaheen-authored amendments that allow the continued sharing of U.S. information, intelligence and imagery to support the Ukrainian Armed Forces on the battlefield and prevent cuts to security cooperation funding for U.S. forces in Europe.
“As Russia continues to pummel Ukraine, it’s absolutely critical that the United States provides Ukraine with the military assistance it has been promised. That’s why it was deeply troubling to see Secretary Hegseth’s unilateral attempt to abruptly halt munitions shipments to Ukraine last week. While the administration ultimately reversed course on this short-sighted decision, it’s clear that Congress needs to establish stronger guardrails to prevent the Secretary from diverting assistance again—Ukrainian lives cannot be vulnerable to short-sighted, unilateral actions.
“I was pleased to see my amendment to prohibit the Pentagon from diverting military aid meant for Ukraine clear the Senate Armed Services Committee with bipartisan support. If we’re going to get Putin to the negotiating table, the United States has to uphold its commitment and deliver the equipment we’ve pledged for Ukraine. We must help Ukraine defend its skies and protect civilians from Russia’s continuous aerial assaults. Congress’ support for Ukraine and a lasting peace remains strong, and I look forward to seeing my provision clear the full Senate and then signed into law by the President.”
The Committee-passed NDAA also includes the following Shaheen-led amendments:
To allow the continued sharing of U.S. information, intelligence and imagery to support the Ukrainian Armed Forces on the battlefield and prevent cuts to security cooperation funding for U.S. forces in Europe;
To require the executive branch to consult with Congress and NATO Allies before any attempt to withdraw U.S. forces from Europe or abdicate the Commander of U.S. European Command’s dual role of Supreme Allied Commander Europe;
To require the Pentagon to consult with Congress before making changes to U.S. military force posture in Europe and on the Korean Peninsula.
Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council
Following are UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ remarks, delivered by United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Executive Director Natalia Kanem, to the UNFPA Award ceremony in New York today:
I am pleased to represent the Secretary-General at this important celebration. I will now read his remarks.
I am honoured to share a message of profound respect and heartfelt congratulations to this year’s laureates of the United Nations Population Award.
The work we celebrate today — from advancing population science to protecting reproductive rights — is central to sustainable development. Because when every person can make informed decisions about their body and their future, we unlock opportunities, strengthen communities and accelerate progress for all.
I thank Dr. Natalia Kanem for her dedication and leadership, as Secretary of the United Nations Population Award Committee and Executive Director of UNFPA. I also salute the Chair, Sidi Mohamed Laghdaf, of Mauritania, along with the committee members, for selecting this year’s honourees.
In the individual category, we celebrate Dr. Varsha Deshpande of India.
In a village in Maharashtra, young girls once faced futures decided for them: child marriage; no education; no choice. But Varsha Deshpande stood up and said no.
For over 30 years, she has been a force for change. Preventing hundreds of child marriages. Providing legal aid to over 10,000 women. And transforming the simple phrase “Lek Ladki Abhiyan”, “the cherished girl child”, into a movement of hope.
Halfway around the world in France, the International Union for the Scientific Study of Population has spent nearly a century bridging the gap between data and dignity.
Every four years, they gather global experts to take a deep look at some of our most pressing population challenges, including migration, ageing societies and climate displacement.
The International Union for the Scientific Study of Population ensures lives are not only counted — but understood and supported.
On behalf of the Secretary-General and the United Nations, congratulations.
We are all inspired by the work of today’s honourees and the future they help to shape. A future of dignity, equality and opportunity, for every woman, every child and every person, everywhere.
US Senate News:
Source: US Whitehouse
A week after President Donald J. Trump signed the historic One Big Beautiful Bill into law, Americans across the country are celebrating its many benefits. From farmers securing their family legacies to service workers gaining financial breathing room, the bill’s bold policies will make a real difference in Americans’ lives.
In Iowa, fifth-generation farmer Dennis Friest says it “feels like a weight has been lifted from his shoulders” now that the One Big Beautiful Bill prevents the death tax from hitting his farm: “One of my goals when I started farming was to be able to pass this farm onto the next generation, and I’m doing that. I feel very good about that.”
In Georgia, a restaurant worker says No Tax on Tips will have countless benefits: “I believe it’s going to generate more spending around the town and maybe even travel in the future, or people can start saving and make bigger purchases along the way. I think it’s great.”
In California, a waitress says No Tax on Tips will help her save for the future: “Over the previous years, I’ve owed quite a bit — so hopefully this can go into a college fund instead.”
In South Carolina, Greenville County Coroner Mike Ellis says No Tax on Overtime will help his deputies better plan how to spend their money: “They work extremely hard and have an extremely tragic job — every one of them.”
In Hawaii, a restaurant owner says No Tax on Tips will be a boon for his employees: “I think any amount of money saved will have great impact … that would affect absolutely every non-manager in the house. Everybody’s tipped here.”
In Nevada, a service worker says No Tax on Tips will make a huge difference for hardworking people like her: “It definitely will be a couple of hundred dollars in our paychecks — which it goes far.”
In Texas, a fourth-generation farmer says the pro-agriculture provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill will be difference-maker: “We definitely need a strong safety net for America’s farmers.”
In Michigan, a waitress says the extra money as a result of No Tax on Tips will help care for her four children: “It would either go towards them or towards my house bills.”
In Wisconsin, the vice president of the state’s restaurant association says No Tax on Tips will have a direct impact on peoples’ lives: “Many of our folks are part-time, either supplemental income to the family or are students putting themselves through school … this will help them achieve their goals.”
In Florida, a Miami bartender says No Tax on Tips will be a big help since tips are 90% of his income: “A little bit more money in the working people’s pocket, and that just allows us the opportunity to get to enjoy our cities a little bit more.”
In Minnesota, a bartender praises No Tax on Tips: “Any more money on our checks is going to be better — that we don’t have to give to the government.”
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla., July 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Solitron Devices, Inc. (OTC Pink: SODI) (“Solitron” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce fiscal 2026 first quarter results.
FISCAL 2026 FIRST QUARTER HIGHLIGHTS –
Revenue continued to be down in the first quarter, similar to the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2025, due to the lag time between receipt of orders and production/fulfillment of those orders. As previously noted in our last press release, we expected lower revenues in this quarter and anticipate sales to pick up at the end of the fiscal second quarter, before reaching a steadier level in the fiscal third quarter.
On a positive note, the Company’s backlog remains at record levels. Backlog increased from $18.11 million at the beginning of the fiscal year to $18.26 million at the end of fiscal 2026 first quarter.
During the quarter we invested $1.65 million for 6.4% of the units in CBE LLC (“CBE”). CBE purchased a 25% interest in CrossingBridge Advisors (“CrossingBridge”), a subsidiary of ENDI Corp., for $25.9 million. CBE will be entitled to a royalty equal to approximately 14.9% of the revenue of CrossingBridge, which equated to an initial “cap” rate based on CrossingBridge’s revenue run rate as of December 31, 2024, of approximately 11.7%. Solitron’s royalty share will be just under 6.4% of CBE’s. CrossingBridge reported that its assets under management were $4.0 billion as of June 30, 2025, versus $3.4 billion as of December 31, 2024.
By law, certain U.S. Department of Defense officials and other executive branch agency officials are required to submit reports to Congress describing defense and intelligence-related priorities that were not included in the President’s annual budget request. These reports, known as unfunded priorities lists (UPLs), identify certain programs, activities, or mission requirements for which appropriations were not requested, along with the funding amounts that may be necessary to resource them. In the recent unfunded priorities list it has been reported that the U.S. Air Force requested an increase in AMRAAM production from 1,200 annually to 2,400 annually by 2028. AMRAAM is the largest defense program that Solitron supplies to. While the request is positive news, any increase requires Congressional approval, and there are no assurances that approval will happen. We continue to see increased interest in new product development, including silicon carbide. We have developed various prototypes for testing by potential customers and continue to be optimistic about creating additional revenue sources.
We continue to see increased interest in new product development, including silicon carbide. We have developed various prototypes for testing by potential customers and continue to be optimistic about creating additional revenue sources.
| SOLITRON DEVICES, INC. CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MAY 31, 2025, AND MAY 31, 2024 (in thousands except for share and per share amounts) |
||||||||
| For The Three Months Ended | For The Three Months Ended | |||||||
| May 31, 2025 | May 31, 2024 | |||||||
| unaudited | unaudited | |||||||
| Net sales | $ | 2,700 | $ | 3,967 | ||||
| Cost of sales | 2,310 | 2,292 | ||||||
| Gross profit | 390 | 1,675 | ||||||
| Selling, general and administrative expenses | 768 | 883 | ||||||
| Operating income | (378 | ) | 792 | |||||
| Other income (loss) | ||||||||
| Interest income | – | 5 | ||||||
| Interest expense | (74 | ) | (50 | ) | ||||
| Dividend income | 41 | 16 | ||||||
| Realized gain (loss) on investments | 81 | 11 | ||||||
| Unrealized gain (loss) on investments | (127 | ) | 27 | |||||
| Total other income (loss) | (79 | ) | 9 | |||||
| Net income (loss) before income tax | (457 | ) | 801 | |||||
| Income tax (expense) benefit | 121 | (212 | ) | |||||
| Net income (loss) | $ | (336 | ) | $ | 589 | |||
| Net income (loss) per common share – basic and diluted | $ | (0.16 | ) | $ | 0.28 | |||
| Weighted average shares outstanding – basic and diluted | 2,082,553 | 2,083,436 | ||||||
| SOLITRON DEVICES, INC. CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS AS OF MAY 31, 2025, AND FEBRUARY 28, 2025 (in thousands, except for share and per share amounts) |
||||||||
| May 31, 2025 |
February 28, 2025 |
|||||||
| ASSETS | ||||||||
| CURRENT ASSETS | ||||||||
| Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 2,570 | $ | 4,099 | ||||
| Marketable securities | 659 | 919 | ||||||
| Accounts receivable | 1,750 | 2,129 | ||||||
| Inventories, net | 3,591 | 3,440 | ||||||
| Prepaid expenses and other current assets | 212 | 132 | ||||||
| TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS | 8,782 | 10,719 | ||||||
| Property, plant and equipment, net | 8,532 | 8,635 | ||||||
| Intangible assets | 2,852 | 2,905 | ||||||
| Deferred tax asset | 1,743 | 1,622 | ||||||
| Long-term investment | 1,650 | – | ||||||
| Other assets | 428 | 555 | ||||||
| TOTAL ASSETS | $ | 23,987 | $ | 24,436 | ||||
| LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY | ||||||||
| CURRENT LIABILITIES | ||||||||
| Accounts payable | $ | 732 | $ | 439 | ||||
| Customer deposits | 119 | 118 | ||||||
| Accrued contingent consideration, current | 598 | 570 | ||||||
| Mortgage loan, current portion | 155 | 152 | ||||||
| Accrued expenses and other current liabilities | 857 | 846 | ||||||
| TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES | 2,461 | 2,125 | ||||||
| Accrued contingent consideration, non-current | 254 | 663 | ||||||
| Mortgage loan, net of current portion | 3,725 | 3,765 | ||||||
| TOTAL LIABILITIES | 6,440 | 6,553 | ||||||
| STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY | ||||||||
| Preferred stock, $.01 par value, authorized 500,000 shares, none issued | – | – | ||||||
| Common stock, $.01 par value, authorized 10,000,000 shares, 2,082,553 shares outstanding, net of 487,827 treasury shares at May 31, 2025 and 2,082,553 shares outstanding, net of 487,827 treasury shares at February 28, 2025, respectively | 21 | 21 | ||||||
| Additional paid-in capital | 1,834 | 1,834 | ||||||
| Retained earnings | 17,104 | 17,440 | ||||||
| Less treasury stock | (1,412 | ) | (1,412 | ) | ||||
| TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY | 17,547 | 17,883 | ||||||
| TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY | $ | 23,987 | $ | 24,436 | ||||
The unaudited financial information disclosed in this press release for the three months ended May 31, 2025, is based on management’s review of operations for that period and the information available to the Company as of the date of this press release. The Company’s results included herein have been prepared by, and are the responsibility of, the Company’s management. The Company’s independent auditors have audited the Company’s results for the fiscal year ending February 28, 2025. The financial results presented herein should not be considered a substitute for the information filed or to be filed with the SEC in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the respective periods once such reports become available.
About Solitron Devices, Inc.
Solitron Devices, Inc., a Delaware corporation, designs, develops, manufactures, and markets solid state semiconductor components and related devices primarily for the military and aerospace markets. The Company manufactures a large variety of bipolar and metal oxide semiconductor (“MOS”) power transistors, power and control hybrids, junction and power MOS field effect transistors (“Power MOSFETS”), and other related products. Most of the Company’s products are custom made pursuant to contracts with customers whose end products are sold to the United States government. Other products, such as Joint Army/Navy (“JAN”) transistors, diodes, and Standard Military Drawings voltage regulators, are sold as standard or catalog items.
Effective September 1, 2023, Solitron closed its acquisition of Micro Engineering Inc. (MEI) based in Apopka, Florida. MEI specializes in solving design layout and manufacturing challenges while maximizing efficiency and keeping flexibility to meet unique customer needs. Since 1980 the MEI team has been dedicated to overcoming obstacles to provide cost efficient and rapid results. MEI specializes in low to mid volume projects that require engineering dedication, quality systems and efficient manufacturing.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements regarding future events and the future performance of Solitron Devices, Inc. that involve risks and uncertainties that could materially affect actual results, including statements regarding the Company’s expectations regarding future performance and trends, including production levels, government spending, backlog and delivery timelines, new product development, our efforts and performance following our acquisition of MEI, and potential future revenue and trends with respect thereto from each of the foregoing. Factors that could cause actual results to vary from current expectations and forward-looking statements contained in this press release include, but are not limited to, the risks and uncertainties arising from potential adverse developments or changes in government budgetary spending and policy including with respect to the war in Ukraine, which may among other factors be affected by the possibility of reduced government spending on programs in which we participate, inflation, elevated interest rates, adverse trends in the economy and the possibility of a recession the likelihood of which appears to have increased based on recent economic data, the possibility that management’s estimates and assumptions regarding bookings, sales and other metrics prove to be incorrect; the timing and size of orders from our clients, our delivery schedules and our liquidity and cash position; our ability to make the appropriate adjustments to our cost structure; our ability to properly account for inventory in the future; the demand for our products and potential loss of, or reduction of business from, substantial clients our dependence on government contracts, which are subject to termination, price renegotiations and regulatory compliance and which may among other factors be adversely affected by the factors described elsewhere herein, our ability to continue to integrate MEI in an efficient and effective manner, and the possibility that such acquisition or any other acquisition or strategic transaction we may pursue does not yield the results or benefits desired or anticipated. Descriptions of other risk factors and uncertainties are contained in the Company’s Securities and Exchange Commission filings, including its most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2025.
Tim Eriksen
Chief Executive Officer
(561) 848-4311
Corporate@solitrondevices.com
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
SOUTHAMPTON, Pa., July 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Environmental Tectonics Corporation (OTC Pink: ETCC) (“ETC” or the “Company”) today reported its financial results for the thirteen week period ended May 30, 2025 (the “2026 first fiscal quarter”).
Robert L. Laurent, Jr., ETC’s Chief Executive Officer and President stated, “We are pleased with the 39% increase in ETC operating income vs. prior year driven by an increase in sales of Aircrew Training Systems (“ATS”) and a decrease in operating expenses as compared to the prior year, as well as our 34% gross profit margin excluding the impact of lower margin sales related to construction of an aeromedical center during the 2026 first fiscal quarter. We exit the quarter with a sales backlog of $73 million and a large pipeline of opportunities.”
Fiscal 2026 First Quarter Results of Operations
Net Income
Net income was $1.3 million, or $0.07 diluted earnings per share, in the 2026 first fiscal quarter, compared to net income of $1.4 million during the 2025 first fiscal quarter, or $0.08 diluted earnings per share. The $0.1 million decrease is primarily attributable to a $0.4 million, or 385.3% increase in interest expense, net and a $0.4 million, or 1850.0% increase in income tax provision in the 2026 first fiscal quarter as compared to 2025 first fiscal quarter partially offset by the net effect of a $0.9 million increase in ATS net sales, excluding the Aeromedical center building revenue, and a $0.7 million decrease in Commercial/Industrial Systems (“CIS”) net sales, and a $0.5 million decrease in operating expenses.
Net Sales
Net sales in the 2026 first fiscal quarter were $17.6 million, an increase of $4.1 million, or 30.5%, compared to 2025 first fiscal quarter net sales of $13.5 million. The increase in net sales was mainly a result of a $4.8 million, or 74.9% increase in ATS sales, $3.9 million of which relates to aeromedical center building revenue, slightly offset by a $0.8 million, or 14.2% decrease in Sterilizer Systems sales in the 2026 first fiscal quarter as compared to 2025 first fiscal quarter.
Gross Profit
Gross profit for the 2026 first fiscal quarter was $4.7 million (26.5% of net sales) compared to $4.5 million in 2025 first fiscal quarter (33.6% of net sales). The decrease in gross profit margin as a percentage of sales was a direct result of the increase in aeromedical center building revenue within the ATS business unit, which is lower margin than ETC’s core businesses as the work is being performed by a sub-contracted construction firm. Excluding the impact of the aeromedical center building revenue, gross profit margin was 34.3% for first fiscal quarter 2026 as compared to 33.9% for first fiscal quarter 2025.
Operating Expenses
Operating expenses, including sales and marketing, general and administrative, and research and development, for the 2026 first fiscal quarter were $2.5 million, a decrease of $0.5 million, or 16.0%, compared to $3.0 million for the 2025 first fiscal quarter. The decrease in operating expenses was due primarily to lower research and development expense at ETC-PZL in 2026 first fiscal quarter as compared to 2025 first fiscal quarter. In 2025 first fiscal quarter, ETC-PZL had limited sales which resulted in employees working on non-chargeable research and development projects.
Operating Income
Operating income for the 2026 fiscal first quarter was $2.2 million, an increase of $0.6 million, or 39.4%, compared to $1.6 million for the 2025 first fiscal quarter. The increase in operating income is attributable to the net effect of a $0.9 million increase in ATS net sales, excluding the Aeromedical center building revenue, and a $0.7 million decrease in Commercial/Industrial Systems (“CIS”) net sales, and a $0.5 million decrease in operating expenses.
Interest Expense, Net
Interest expense, net, for the 2026 first fiscal quarter was $0.6 million compared to $0.1 million in the 2025 first fiscal quarter, an increase of $0.4 million, or 385.3%, reflecting increased borrowing attributable to the leaseback of the demonstration equipment in 2025 fourth fiscal quarter.
Income Tax Provision
Income tax provision for the 2026 first fiscal quarter was $0.4 million compared to $0.0 million in the 2025 first fiscal quarter, an increase of $0.4 million, or 1850.0%. The increase is a non-cash tax expense attributable to the utilization of our Net Operating Loss (NOL) carryforward for which a deferred tax asset was established in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2025.
Cash Flows from Operating, Investing, and Financing Activities
During the 2026 first fiscal quarter, cash flows used in operating activities were $2.7 million, a decrease of $5.6 million compared to cash flows provided by operating activities of $2.9 million during 2025 first fiscal quarter. Cash flows during the 2026 first fiscal quarter primarily decreased as a result of an increase in accounts receivable, net, slightly offset by an increase in accounts payable, trade for 2026 first fiscal quarter as compared to 2025 first fiscal quarter.
Cash used for investing activities primarily relates to funds used for capital expenditures of equipment and software development. The Company’s investing activities used $0.1 million during the 2026 and 2025 first fiscal quarter.
The Company’s financing activities provided $1.0 million of cash during the 2026 first fiscal quarter from borrowings under the Company’s credit facility as compared to repayments under the Company’s credit facility of $3.1 during the 2025 first fiscal quarter.
About ETC
ETC was incorporated in 1969 in Pennsylvania. For over five decades, we have provided our customers with products, services, and support. Innovation, continuous technological improvement and enhancement, and product quality are core values that are critical to our success. We are a significant supplier and innovator in the following areas: (i) software driven products and services used to create and monitor the physiological effects of flight, including high performance jet tactical flight simulation, fixed and rotary wing upset prevention and recovery and spatial disorientation, and both suborbital and orbital commercial human spaceflight, collectively, Aircrew Training Systems (“ATS”); (ii) altitude (hypobaric) chambers; (iii) hyperbaric chambers for multiple persons (multiplace chambers); (iv) Advanced Disaster Management Simulators (“ADMS”); (v) steam and gas (ethylene oxide) sterilizers (“Sterilizer Systems” or “Sterilizers”); and (vi) Environmental Testing and Simulation Systems (“ETSS”).
We operate in two primary business segments, Aerospace Solutions (“Aerospace”) and Commercial/Industrial Systems (“CIS”). Aerospace encompasses the design, manufacture, and sale of: (i) ATS products; (ii) altitude (hypobaric) chambers; (iii) hyperbaric chambers for multiple persons (multiplace chambers); and (iv) ADMS, as well as integrated logistics support (“ILS”) for customers who purchase these products or similar products manufactured by other parties. These products and services provide customers with an offering of comprehensive solutions for improved readiness and reduced operational costs. Sales of our Aerospace products are made principally to U.S. and foreign government agencies and to civil aviation organizations. CIS encompasses the design, manufacture, and sale of: (i) steam and gas (ethylene oxide) sterilizers; and (ii) ETSS; as well as parts and service support for customers who purchase these products or similar products manufactured by other parties. Sales of our CIS products are made principally to the healthcare, pharmaceutical, and automotive industries.
ETC-PZL Aerospace Industries Sp. z o.o. (“ETC-PZL”), our 100%-owned subsidiary in Warsaw, Poland, is currently our only operating subsidiary. ETC-PZL manufactures certain simulators and provides software to support products manufactured domestically within our Aerospace segment.
The majority of our net sales are generated from long-term contracts with foreign and U.S. governments and agencies (including foreign military sales (“FMS”) contracted through the U.S. Government) for the research, design, development, manufacture, integration, and sustainment of ATS products, including Chambers and the simulators manufactured and sold through ETC-PZL, collectively, ATS as well as long-term contracts with domestic and international customers for the sale of Sterilizer systems. The Company also enters into long-term contracts with domestic customers for the sale of ETSS. Net sales of ADMS are generally much shorter term in nature and vary between domestic and international customers. We generally provide our products and services under fixed-price contracts.
ETC’s unique ability to offer complete systems, designed and produced to high technical standards, sets it apart from its competition. ETC’s headquarters is located in Southampton, PA. For more information about ETC, visit http://www.etcusa.com/. The information contained on our website is not incorporated by reference in this news release.
Forward-looking Statements
This news release contains forward-looking statements, which are based on management’s expectations and are subject to uncertainties and changes in circumstances. Words and expressions reflecting something other than historical fact are intended to identify forward-looking statements, and these statements may include words such as “may”, “will”, “should”, “expect”, “plan”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “future”, “predict”, “potential”, “intend”, or “continue”, and similar expressions. We base our forward-looking statements on our current expectations and projections about future events or future financial performance. Our forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and assumptions about ETC and its subsidiaries that may cause actual results to be materially different from any future results implied by these forward-looking statements. We caution you not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, we assume no obligation to update or revise any forward looking statements.
| Contact: | Tim Kennedy, CFO |
| Phone: | (215) 355-9100 x1531 |
| E-mail: | tkennedy@etcusa.com |
– Financial Table Follows –
| Table A | |||||||||||||||
| ENVIRONMENTAL TECTONICS CORPORATION | |||||||||||||||
| SUMMARY TABLE OF RESULTS | |||||||||||||||
| (in thousands, except per share information) | |||||||||||||||
| (unaudited) | |||||||||||||||
| Thirteen weeks ended | Variance | ||||||||||||||
| (in thousands, except per share information) | May 30, 2025 | May 24, 2024 | ($) | (%) | |||||||||||
| Net sales | $ | 17,601 | $ | 13,492 | $ | 4,109 | 30.5 | ||||||||
| Cost of goods sold | 12,939 | 8,965 | 3,974 | 44.3 | |||||||||||
| Gross Profit | 4,662 | 4,527 | 135 | 3.0 | |||||||||||
| Gross profit margin % | 26.5 | % | 33.6 | % | -7.1 | % | -21.1 | % | |||||||
| Operating expenses | 2,498 | 2,975 | (477 | ) | -16.0 | ||||||||||
| Operating income | 2,164 | 1,552 | 612 | 39.4 | |||||||||||
| Operating margin % | 12.3 | % | 11.5 | % | 0.8 | % | 6.9 | % | |||||||
| Interest expense, net | 563 | 116 | 447 | 385.3 | |||||||||||
| Other (income) expense, net | (78 | ) | 55 | (133 | ) | -241.8 | |||||||||
| Income before income taxes | 1,679 | 1,381 | 298 | 21.6 | |||||||||||
| Pre-tax margin % | 9.5 | % | 10.2 | % | -0.7 | % | -6.9 | % | |||||||
| Income tax provision | 390 | 20 | 370 | 1850.0 | |||||||||||
| Net income | 1,289 | 1,361 | (72 | ) | -5.3 | ||||||||||
| Preferred Stock dividends | (121 | ) | (121 | ) | – | 0.0 | |||||||||
| Income attributable to common and | |||||||||||||||
| participating shareholders | $ | 1,168 | $ | 1,240 | $ | (72 | ) | -5.8 | |||||||
| Per share information: | |||||||||||||||
| Basic earnings per common and participating share: | |||||||||||||||
| Distributed earnings per share: | |||||||||||||||
| Common | $ | – | $ | – | $ | – | |||||||||
| Preferred | $ | 0.02 | $ | 0.02 | $ | – | 0.0 | ||||||||
| Undistributed earnings per share: | |||||||||||||||
| Common | $ | 0.07 | $ | 0.08 | $ | (0.01 | ) | -12.5 | |||||||
| Preferred | $ | 0.07 | $ | 0.08 | $ | (0.01 | ) | -12.5 | |||||||
| Diluted earnings per share | $ | 0.07 | $ | 0.08 | $ | (0.01 | ) | -12.5 | |||||||
| Total basic weighted average common and participating shares | 15,665 | 15,569 | |||||||||||||
| Total diluted weighted average shares | 16,998 | 16,062 | |||||||||||||
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
July 11, 2025
Warren: “The choice will belong to our military to make the right economic decision to purchase and then the right economic decisions down the line on how to repair it.”
Sheehy: “We’re at a point where we’ll have systems that are not ready for missions overseas in war zones, on ships, at forward-deployed bases, and we can’t conduct basic repairs to those systems.”
Full Interview (YouTube)
Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), who are both members of the Senate Armed Services Committee, sat down with CBS’s Caitlin Huey-Burns to highlight their Warrior Right to Repair Act of 2025, which would require contractors to provide the Department of Defense access to technical data and materials the military needs to repair and maintain its own equipment. This legislation aims to reduce government spending, promote competition, and improve military readiness. Portions of the bill are included in the Senate’s National Defense Authorization Act of 2026.
Watch the interview here and read the full transcript below:
CBS News: Why Sens. Elizabeth Warren and Tim Sheehy are teaming up to tame Pentagon spending
July 10, 2025
Caitlin Huey-Burns: Why can’t the military fix its own equipment?
Senator Elizabeth Warren: You want to go first, Tim?
Senator Tim Sheehy: Well, we’ve had decades of bureaucratic sclerosis that have created a really broken system that’s rife with perverse incentives. It’s also rife with requirements that aren’t always grounded in what the warfighter actually needs, and a huge focus on process over outcome. We’re at a point where we’ll have systems that are not ready for missions overseas in war zones, on ships, at forward-deployed bases, and we can’t conduct basic repairs to those systems. And I think we’re at a point now where we’ve seen multiple theaters of war, from Iraq to Afghanistan to Israel to Ukraine. We’re understanding the limits of this current defense acquisition paradigm, and it’s about time we fix it. So, it’s not one thing that happened. It’s an accumulation of 30 years of bureaucracy that’s kind of led to where we’re at now.
Senator Warren: And I would just add to what Senator Sheehy says here by pointing out that the defense contractors have figured out they get two bites at every apple this way. So, they sell you the initial product, whether it’s an oven on a submarine or it’s a fancy piece of warfighting equipment—that’s one—and they negotiate a price for that, but they hold back in the fine print. You can’t fix it yourself. So, when the safety clip breaks, when you get sand down in the equipment, and you need to mess with it some more, the answer is, too often, because of what’s in that contract that the military says to our service member, don’t touch that thing. You’ve got to retire, in effect, the piece of equipment, hold it over there, call a contractor, have the contractor fly in from a long, long way away, charge us for flying in, take the delay and charge us whatever they want to charge us to come in and fix that thing. That has turned out to be a very profitable model for some of the defense contractors. And what our bill says is no more, no more. The Defense Department, going forward, if our bill is signed into law, it basically says, here’s the deal: you negotiate the price to buy the thing, and if the thing breaks, we may fix it ourselves. We may go to another small business, a startup, some guy who set up shop to be able to fix just that kind of thing. Or we may come back to the manufacturer. But the choice will belong to our military to make the right economic decision to purchase and then the right economic decisions down the line on how to repair it.
Caitlin Huey-Burns: What about the argument, though, that the contractor knows the equipment better than anyone else has the ability to fix it better than anyone? Why shouldn’t they be allowed to be the ones?
Senator Warren: Let them compete. They want to offer. They want to say, “Hey, we can fix that.” You know what? I’ll bet if that happened, that the price of fixing it would go down, if there were competition—that is, if other little guys were in there saying, “Hey, we can fix this.” Or, let’s face it, the servicemember, himself or herself, who actually also knows this stuff. Let’s have that open competition. That’s what we need here on the military side, and frankly, it’s what we need throughout the country, whether we’re talking about cars or tractors or telephones, or anything else. But we’re starting here.
Caitlin Huey-Burns: So, you’re saying—you’re not saying that the contractor won’t be able to fix the equipment, they just can’t have a monopoly in it?
Senator Warren: That’s right, that they negotiated up front in fine print when nobody was looking and nobody was pricing it in. That’s where they’re making off like bandits.
Caitlin Huey-Burns: And Senator Sheehy, you approach this issue as a former seal officer. What kind of impact—Senator Warren talked about the financial aspects of this. What kind of impact has this had on the battlefield, on training, on our soldiers out there? What does it mean for military readiness?
Senator Sheehy: Less. Less readiness, to put it bluntly. We’ve had less readiness as a result of this. Now, our acquisition paradigm was really designed in the 1950s and 60s and hasn’t really changed since then. And in fairness to the Pentagon individuals and the contractors together, much of that’s been on us. We have not forced an upgrade to our DFARS, defense acquisition regulations, that govern the entire federal acquisition environment. We have not forced them to upgrade those, and it’s about time we do, because the systems simply were not as complicated. Software. Software is becoming one of the core pieces of functional equipment that we have.
Caitlin Huey-Burns: You two come from very different parties. You’re a very conservative Republican. You’re a very progressive Democrat. How is it that you two found this common ground? How is it that you guys came together on this piece of legislation?
Senator Sheehy: Well, I was making the rounds as a freshman who’s never served in any political office before, when I got here, I said, the first thing I do is I’m trying to meet with every single member I can, on both parties, and just introduce myself and get some advice and wisdom. And in our first meeting, you know, we just—she said, “Well, what do you want to do when you’re here?” And I listed the handful of things I wanted to focus on. One of them was defense acquisition reform. And I kind of went on my riff about how frustrated I was.
Caitlin Huey-Burns: Your eyes light up.
Senator Warren: I did.
Senator Sheehy: She popped up like an aerobics video, like, “That, we’re going to do it.” And we dug into it.
Caitlin Huey-Burns: “That’s my language.”
Senator Warren: Exactly, I said, “Another nerd, we can do this. We can do this.” But it is, there are these places that this isn’t political. This is about doing what is right.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia
Senator Reverend Warnock first pressed DHS Secretary Kristi Noem for answers on major cuts to FEMA over a month ago. Secretary Noem has yet to respond to critical questions, even in the midst of hurricane season.
Senator Reverend Warnock: “Know that I will not sit idly by while Georgia lives and livelihoods are endangered. This is about our safety, and we deserve answers.”
Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) is escalating his fight to get answers from DHS Secretary Kristi Noem on FEMA’s ability to respond to hurricanes in Georgia this storm season. Senator Warnock renewed his call for answers on social media after Noem failed to respond to his inquiry at the beginning of hurricane season in June.
Senator Warnock first pressed Secretary Noem for answers after leaked internal assessments revealed that FEMA is unprepared for the current storm season that began on June 1. The Senator’s calls also follow Secretary Noem’s recent statement in which she doubled down on the administration’s plan to eliminate the agency all together.
Senator Warnock asked Secretary Noem to commit to ensuring that FEMA’s Region IV office in Atlanta, which oversees disaster response for all of Georgia and much of the southeast, remains fully staffed and resourced for the 2025 hurricane season.
“We have seen the devastation and the impact of hurricanes and big storms in Georgia, time and time again,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “We need to know if the administration is taking this seriously. We do know based on internal reports that much of the agency has been hollowed out. The evidence suggests that we do not have the personnel to respond at the beginning of hurricane season”
This is Senator Warnock’s latest effort to ensure that FEMA has the resources needed to protect Georgians from natural disasters and assist with recovery. In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, Senator Warnock led a bipartisan, bicameral effort to secure billions of dollars in federal funding for disaster recovery efforts in Georgia. The Senator also introduced bipartisan legislation to extend the tax deadline for Georgians impacted by Hurricane Helene and other natural disasters. Senator Warnock also joined a bipartisan effort to demand that the Trump Administration reinstate the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program, which supports local disaster mitigation projects including a $30 million award to Savannah for flood reduction measures that was canceled earlier this year.
Full text of the letter can be found HERE and below:
Dear Secretary Noem,
As the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season begins this week, and following Acting Administrator Richardson’s stunning and disturbing reported admission that he was unaware the United States has a hurricane season, I write with deep concern about the Trump administration’s efforts to dismantle the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the potentially devastating consequences for Georgia communities.
Nearly a year ago, in September 2024, Georgia and the entire southeast were bombarded by Hurricane Helene – a multi-state major disaster and the deadliest storm to strike the mainland United States in 20 years. At its peak, Hurricane Helene left more than 1 million Georgians without power, demanded 300 boil water advisories across the state, damaged over 200,000 homes, and left thousands of families displaced.
Fortunately, thanks to an early presence in Georgia and a “great” working relationship with the Georgia Emergency Management Agency and state leadership, FEMA was prepared to quickly mobilize assistance teams, deliver meals and water to the hardest-hit areas, and coordinate response and recovery efforts with state, local, and nonprofit leaders. Most importantly, FEMA remained in Georgia long after the national cameras left, helping Georgians along their road to recovery and hosting resource fairs for impacted communities on everything from applications for individual assistance to small business loans to housing needs. To date, FEMA has provided over $360 million to survivors and more than $400 million to local governments and communities in Georgia. Though not perfect, this effort required a level of coordination across state lines, rapid mobilization of personnel and supplies, and deep experience that only the federal government and FEMA can provide.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season will likely be “above normal” and feature up to ten hurricanes, including five major storms that will threaten Georgia and much of the southeast. However, instead of working with state and local governments, nonprofits, and federal partners to prepare for the 2025 hurricane season, the Trump administration and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have haphazardly and irresponsibly worked to dismantle the nation’s lead disaster response agency without any workable alternative or sense of direction.
These reckless actions include:
Proposing a $646 million budget cut to FEMA in Fiscal Year (FY) 2026, along with the cancellation of billions in disaster relief and mitigation grants that help states prepare for future disasters;
Gutting FEMA’s workforce by nearly 30 percent, including more than 1,800 voluntary buyouts, 200 terminations, a hiring freeze, the departure of 16 senior officials, as well as the abject firing of FEMA’s administrator who warned against eliminating the agency;
Pursuing ill-conceived, shortsighted, and abrupt changes to longstanding FEMA policy, including quadrupling the damage threshold for Georgia communities to receive federal assistance from roughly $21 million to more than $84 million;
Canceling hurricane readiness trainings for state and local emergency managers in Georgia and across the country; and,
Eliminating the disaster resiliency-focused Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program, including a $30 million award to reduce flooding in Savannah, Georgia.
I am always open to considering thoughtful, transparent reforms developed in close partnership with Congress, states, and local officials, but these unilateral actions are gambling with the lives and livelihoods of millions of Georgians. As DHS’s own internal agency review states, “FEMA is not ready” for the upcoming hurricane season – a frightening assessment that I fear will soon have severe consequences in Georgia and southeastern coastal states.
To that end, I request answers to the following questions by June 26, 2025, so that Georgians may better understand how your actions will affect their safety during the 2025 hurricane season:
How would a budget cut of $646 million, as proposed in your FY26 budget request, help FEMA better prepare for and respond to future disasters in Georgia?
What analyses did DHS conduct to ensure that these budget cuts will not diminish the safety of Americans during hurricane season?
Please provide any policy justification or budget analysis supporting the cancellation of hurricane readiness trainings for state and local officials, including how such cancellations better prepare local communities for hurricane season.[1] In the absence of such trainings, how does DHS intend to ensure that local officials are prepared for hurricane season?
Of the FEMA employees who were terminated or accepted voluntary buyouts, how many performed a hurricane preparedness, logistic, or safety function, including those who collaborated with state and local governments before, during, and after a disaster?
What analyses, if any, has DHS conducted to assess the impact of implemented and proposed workforce reductions on FEMA’s ability to perform its emergency management functions? Please provide copies of any written communications, analyses, and other documentation concerning how workforce reductions will limit FEMA’s ability to carry out its core functions.
How many counties in Georgia that received federal assistance in the aftermath of previous disasters would have been denied that assistance if FEMA’s proposal to quadruple the damage threshold had been implemented prior to those disasters? Please provide a list of affected disasters and Georgia counties, including how much federal disaster assistance would have been lost by each county under FEMA’s new proposed threshold.
What public process or consultation, if any, did FEMA conduct before proposing an increase to the per capita impact indicator threshold?
Please provide a cost-benefit analysis supporting the cancellation of the BRIC program and awarded projects like Savannah, Georgia’s flood reduction measures, including how such cancellations make communities like Savannah more resilient and safer in the event of a severe storm.
What contingency plans are in place if FEMA staff and resources are overwhelmed during the 2025 hurricane season?
Are there plans to further adjust or reduce staffing at FEMA’s Region IV office in Atlanta, Georgia, which oversees disaster response for all of Georgia and much of the southeast?
Will you commit to ensuring this office remains fully staffed and resourced for the duration of the 2025 hurricane season?
Source: Government of Canada News
July 11, 2025 – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – Global Affairs Canada
The Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today met with Wang Yi, China’s Director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs and Minister of Foreign Affairs at the Association of Southeast Nations Regional Forum in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Highlighting the importance of regular communication channels, the ministers reiterated support for the upcoming meeting of the Joint Economic and Trade Commission, the next round of consular consultations and forthcoming counternarcotics discussions.
The ministers exchanged views on a range of global issues, including the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. The ministers also discussed challenges and opportunities in the bilateral relationship and agreed to remain in touch with each other.
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Tbilisi, July 11 (Xinhua) — The education ministers of Georgia and Armenia reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in education, science and youth policy during a meeting on Friday, the Georgian Ministry of Education, Science and Youth reported.
During the meeting of the heads of the relevant departments of the two countries, Givi Mikanadze and Zhanna Andreasyan, which took place in Tbilisi, issues of organizing joint youth camps, strengthening ties between universities in Georgia and Armenia, as well as encouraging cooperation in scientific research activities were discussed.
The Minister of Education, Science and Youth of Georgia G. Mikanadze acquainted his Armenian colleague with current innovations and planned reforms at all levels of education in Georgia.
For her part, the Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sports of the Republic of Armenia Zhanna Andreasyan expressed readiness to implement joint initiatives and deepen friendly relations between the relevant ministries of the two countries.
The Armenian Minister also invited G. Mikanadze to participate in the Forum on Higher Education in Armenia. The event will take place in October of this year. –0–
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
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Source: Eurojust
Eurojust hosted Prosecutor Generals from six South Partner Countries – Algeria, Egypt, Israel, Lebanon, Morocco and Palestine*- and nine EU Member States – Cyprus, France, Greece, Italy, Malta, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, The Netherlands – to discuss the challenges and best practices in fighting cross-border crimes, with a focus on asset recovery and trafficking in human beings and migrant smuggling. The EuroMed Prosecutor General Forum also endorsed the multi-annual Strategy 2025-2027 with a roadmap for the project’s objectives and priorities.
The project, funded by the European Commission and implemented by Eurojust, aims at enhancing strategic and operational international criminal justice cooperation. The EuroMed Justice project aims at increased opportunities for dialogue and joint actions between relevant EU Member States and the South Partner Countries, as well as increased opportunities for cross-border cooperation in criminal matters between respective judicial authorities.
The President of Eurojust Michael Schmid opened the Prosecutors General Forum: “It has been a great honour to host the Prosecutors General and senior officials from Algeria, Egypt, Israel, Lebanon, Morocco, and Palestine*. These past days have confirmed the strong potential of our partnerships and a shared commitment to growing our joint casework. With the 2025–2027 EuroMed Justice Strategy now in place, we are eager to expand our network of Liaison Prosecutors at Eurojust and look forward to welcoming representatives from our Southern Partner Countries in the near future. As a first step, we will facilitate study visits to Eurojust to further build mutual trust, deepen understanding, and lay the groundwork for closer cooperation.“
The meeting was chaired by Alexander Van Dam, National Member for the Netherlands, he said: “It is crucial for all countries to work together to combat serious organised crime, through direct exchanges and sharing of best practices.”
The agenda included the project’s results for Year 1 and 2, a presentation from the European Commission on the International Agreements on cooperation with Eurojust, as well as interventions by the Liaison Prosecutors for Serbia and Norway. Participants further exchanged challenges and best practices in judicial cooperation for asset recovery, trafficking in human beings and migrant smuggling. In the margins of the event, South Partner officials met with the President of Eurojust. The project team also facilitated ten bilateral meetings between the delegations, representatives of Eurojust and the European Commission.
The Forum marked the adoption of the 2025-2027 multi-annual Strategy of the EuroMed Justice project.
For further information: EuroMed Justice | Eurojust | European Union Agency for Criminal Justice Cooperation
* This designation shall not be construed as recognition of a State of Palestine and is without prejudice to the initial positions of the Member States on this issue.
Source: Amnesty International –
Reacting to the sentencing yesterday of 19-year-old protester Saba Jikia, to more than four years in prison for allegedly kicking a police officer during ongoing protests in Georgia, Denis Krivosheev, Amnesty International’s Deputy Director for Eastern Europe and Central Asia, said:
“Saba Jikia’s trial was marred by fair trial concerns and a failure to apply youth justice procedures, usually available under Georgian law for defendants aged 18 to 21. The evidence against him includes video footage challenged by his defence and conclusions by the prosecution’s expert whom his defence was unable to cross-examine.
This selective approach to justice is of deep concern. Georgian authorities must immediately end this impunity and injustice
“There is a wider pattern of protesters being dealt lengthy jail sentences following unfair trials. At the same time, Georgian authorities have proved unwilling to investigate grave violations by police, with no law enforcement officials held to account for widespread ill-treatment of protesters during arrest and allegations of torture in custody. This selective approach to justice is of deep concern. Georgian authorities must immediately end this impunity and injustice.”
Background
Saba Jikia was arrested on 5 December 2024, a week after mass pro-European protests broke out. He was prosecuted for allegedly kicking a fallen riot police officer. The officer in question – who had not been uniformed during the incident – testified in court saying he had not suffered any injuries.
Georgian youth justice legislation requires consideration of the least restrictive measures for defendants under 21 and of restorative justice alternatives. When applying youth justice procedures to defendants aged 18 to 21, deprivation of liberty is to be permissible only as a measure of last resort and for the shortest possible period. However, in spite of the wide application of the youth justice provisions in Georgia’s courts for 18 to 21 year olds, they were not applied in Saba Jikia’s case. Initially, he was remanded in detention in a swift hearing, similar to other remanded Georgian protesters, without due consideration of either the grounds for his pretrial detention or of alternative restraining measures. Following his trial, the judge imposed a prison sentence closer to the maximum penalty.
Amnesty International has reported extensively on human rights violations of anti-government protesters in Georgia, including denial of the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, arbitrary detention, torture and other ill-treatment, violence by pro-government groups or undercover police targeting opposition activists, and unfair trials. The organization has recently launched a global campaign to Demand accountability and justice for protesters in Georgia! – Amnesty International
Source: World Trade Organization
The CTG reviewed 36 trade concerns, with a new concern raised by Australia regarding India’s certification process for cotton bales (Quality Control Order) 2023. It also considered, under other business, a request by the Republic of Korea to discuss the United Kingdom’s safeguard measure on certain steel products.
Trade concerns previously raised in the CTG have covered a wide range of measures relating to trade in goods across the WTO membership, including non-tariff barriers, environmental policies, import taxes, import/export restrictions, national security measures, halal certification, subsidy schemes, export controls, sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures, discriminatory domestic taxes, administrative procedures and reciprocal tariffs.
They have also encompassed a wide range of sectors, including agriculture, semi-conductors and semi-conductor-manufacturing equipment, shipbuilding and food products as well as specific products, such as critical minerals, electric vehicles, electric batteries, liquors, air conditioners, apples and pears, cheese, pulses, cosmetics and tyres.
The United States made a statement in response to the notifications by the European Union, India, Japan and the United Kingdom proposing to suspend concessions under Article 8.2 of the WTO’s Agreement on Safeguards in response to US tariff measures (G/C/W/863, G/C/W/864, G/C/W/865, G/C/W/866).
The United States said the tariffs imposed by President Trump were taken under Section 232, a national security statute, and the US was maintaining these actions pursuant to the essential security exception in Article XXI of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) 1994. As these actions are not safeguard measures, the US said, the suspension of concessions under the Agreement on Safeguards was not applicable.
The EU, India, Japan and the United Kingdom took the floor to explain that they considered the characteristics of the measures as those of safeguards and thus had reserved their rights to suspend concessions under the Safeguards Agreement, without prejudice to ongoing negotiations.
Canada, the European Union and Norway made statements regarding the fragmentation of global trade through tariffs and the resulting global costs. They said the recent tariffs announced or implemented by the United States continued to severely disrupt global trade and undermine predictability in the international trading system, with rising economic costs across the globe for consumers and companies. They also voiced their support for the multilateral trading system, with the WTO at its core, but also recognized the need for reform of the organization and its rules to reflect today’s economic realities.
Thirteen other WTO members took the floor to comment on the item, including the United States, which considered that the trading system had been unable to address trade imbalances and non-market policies and practices. The US called for WTO reform, based on fairness and reciprocity.
The Chair of the CTG, Ambassador Gustavo Nerio Lunazzi (Argentina), reported on his consultations with members on improving the functioning of the CTG. Recommendations from members included enhancing the value of trade concerns discussions by focusing on their political aspects, avoiding repetition on technical issues raised at subsidiary bodies, and encouraging bilateral engagement. Members also proposed improving transparency through better use of digital tools, more effective notification processes and regular reporting on thematic sessions.
The Chair recommended continuing discussions in an informal meeting in September to further explore these ideas and foster inclusive, member-driven engagement. Ten members made statements under this agenda item, supporting the Chair’s report and suggestions.
Following on from discussions that took place earlier in the year, the CTG adopted a decision on the recording of the resolution of trade concerns, which takes into account the practices of the WTO’s Committees on Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Measures and Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT). Three members took the floor to express their support for the draft as a positive symbol and move towards the Council’s further efficiency.
Members considered a request from the United States for a waiver from WTO rules for trade preferences provided under the Caribbean Basin Recovery Act. The United States noted the waiver is similar to the one the CTG approved in 2019, except for programmes related to Haiti that have yet to receive the necessary legislative re-authorization. The initiative creates opportunities to expand trade between the United States and the Caribbean, thus promoting economic opportunity and growth in the region, the US added.
Several Caribbean members took the floor, encouraging members to favourably consider the request. The CTG agreed to forward the draft decision to the General Council so it can be considered at its upcoming meeting.
The next formal meeting of the Council for Trade in Goods will take place on 27-28 November, and the next informal meeting is scheduled for 24 September.
Source: United Nations secretary general
I am pleased to represent the Secretary-General at this important celebration. I will now read his remarks.
Excellencies, Distinguished guests, Friends,
I am honoured to share a message of profound respect and heartfelt congratulations to this year’s laureates of the United Nations Population Award.
The work we celebrate today – from advancing population science to protecting reproductive rights – is central to sustainable development.
Because when every person can make informed decisions about their body and their future, we unlock opportunities, strengthen communities, and accelerate progress for all.
I thank Dr. Natalia Kanem for her dedication and leadership, as Secretary of the United Nations Population Award Committee and Executive Director of UNFPA.
I also salute the Chair, Ambassador Sidi Mohamed Laghdaf, of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, along with the committee members, for selecting this year’s honourees.
In the individual category, we celebrate Ms. Varsha Deshpande of India.
In a village in Maharashtra, young girls once faced futures decided for them.
Child marriage.
No education.
No choice.
But Varsha Deshpande stood up and said no.
For over 30 years, she has been a force for change.
Preventing hundreds of child marriages.
Providing legal aid to over 10,000 women.
And transforming the simple phrase “Lek Ladki Abhiyan”, “the cherished girl child”, into a movement of hope.
Halfway around the world in France, the International Union for the Scientific Study of Population, has spent nearly a century bridging the gap between data and dignity.
Every four years, they gather global experts to take a deep look at some of our most pressing population challenges, including migration, aging societies, and climate displacement.
The IUSSP ensures lives are not only counted – but understood and supported.
On behalf of the Secretary-General and the United Nations, congratulations.
We are all inspired by the work of today’s honourees and the future they help to shape.
A future of dignity, equality, and opportunity, for every woman, every child, and every person, everywhere.
Thank you.
Source: NASA
NASA will provide live coverage of the undocking and departure of the Axiom Mission 4 private astronaut mission from the International Space Station.
The four-member astronaut crew is scheduled to undock from the space-facing port of the station’s Harmony module aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft at approximately 7:05 a.m. EDT Monday, July 14, pending weather, to begin their return to Earth and splashdown off the coast of California.
Coverage of departure operations will begin with hatch closing at 4:30 a.m. on NASA+. Learn how to watch NASA content through a variety of platforms, including social media.
Peggy Whitson, former NASA astronaut and director of human spaceflight at Axiom Space, ISRO (Indian Space Research Organization) astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, ESA (European Space Agency) project astronaut Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski of Poland, and HUNOR (Hungarian to Orbit) astronaut Tibor Kapu of Hungary, will have spent about two weeks in space at the conclusion of their mission.
The Dragon spacecraft will return with more than 580 pounds of cargo, including NASA hardware and data from over 60 experiments conducted throughout the mission.
NASA’s coverage is as follows (all times Eastern and subject to change based on real-time operations):
Monday, July 14
4:30 a.m. – Hatch closing coverage begins on NASA+.
4:55 a.m. – Crew enters spacecraft followed by hatch closing.
6:45 a.m. – Undocking coverage begins on NASA+, Axiom Space, and SpaceX channels.
7:05 a.m. – Undocking
NASA’s coverage ends approximately 30 minutes after undocking when space station joint operations with Axiom Space and SpaceX conclude. Axiom Space will resume coverage of Dragon’s re-entry and splashdown on the company’s website.
A collaboration between NASA and ISRO allowed Axiom Mission 4 to deliver on a commitment highlighted by President Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to send the first ISRO astronaut to the station. The space agencies participated in five joint science investigations and two in-orbit science, technology, engineering, and mathematics demonstrations. NASA and ISRO have a long-standing relationship built on a shared vision to advance scientific knowledge and expand space collaboration.
The private mission also carried the first astronauts from Poland and Hungary to stay aboard the space station.
The International Space Station is a springboard for developing a low Earth orbit economy. NASA’s goal is to achieve a strong economy off the Earth where the agency can purchase services as one of many customers to meet its science and research objectives in microgravity. NASA’s commercial strategy for low Earth orbit provides the government with reliable and safe services at a lower cost, enabling the agency to focus on Artemis missions to the Moon in preparation for Mars while also continuing to use low Earth orbit as a training and proving ground for those deep space missions.
Learn more about NASA’s commercial space strategy at:
https://www.nasa.gov/commercial-space
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Claire O’SheaHeadquarters, Washington202-358-1100claire.a.o’shea@nasa.gov
Anna SchneiderJohnson Space Center, Houston281-483-5111anna.c.schneider@nasa.gov
Source: European Parliament
The Commission is committed to protect the financial interests of the EU and to ensure the correct application of EU law and implementation of the EU budget. Commitments and payments to Hungary, as for any Member State, follow the relevant rules.
As regards discrimination in taxation, since 3 October 2024, an infringement procedure against Hungary is ongoing for non-compliance of its retail tax regime with the freedom of establishment[1].
The Commission also closely monitors the use of authorisation procedures and the enforcement of restrictive measures, particularly in the construction, mining and retail sectors.
Under the European Semester, the Commission follows related developments, notably on disproportionate burdens through sector-specific taxes and complaints of foreign firms about unequal and arbitrary treatment, and reports on them[2].
The concentration of awards was taken into consideration when adopting measures under the general regime of conditionality, which led to a suspension of 55% of three Cohesion Policy programmes in Hungary[3].
Within that procedure, Hungary committed to implement remedial measures to reduce the share of public procurements with single bids, monitor concentration and increase transparency of the public procurement market.
Moreover, Hungary’s Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP) includes the same commitments as milestones and targets[4]. The Commission monitors the correct implementation of remedial measures and will — once Hungary submits a payment request under its RRP — assess the fulfilment of the related milestones and targets.
Until then, all RRP funds are suspended. EU funding to Hungary is also blocked under the horizontal enabling condition regarding the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights[5] related to the programmes under the Common Provisions Regulation[6].
The Commission follows closely the developments in Hungary via its annual Rule of Law Report[7], and will not hesitate to make use of the available tools to protect the financial interests of the EU and enforce EU law.
Source: European Parliament
The Commission is committed to protect the financial interests of the EU and to ensure the correct application of EU law and implementation of the EU budget. Commitments and payments to Hungary, as for any Member State, follow the relevant rules.
As regards discrimination in taxation, since 3 October 2024, an infringement procedure against Hungary is ongoing for non-compliance of its retail tax regime with the freedom of establishment[1].
The Commission also closely monitors the use of authorisation procedures and the enforcement of restrictive measures, particularly in the construction, mining and retail sectors.
Under the European Semester, the Commission follows related developments, notably on disproportionate burdens through sector-specific taxes and complaints of foreign firms about unequal and arbitrary treatment, and reports on them[2].
The concentration of awards was taken into consideration when adopting measures under the general regime of conditionality, which led to a suspension of 55% of three Cohesion Policy programmes in Hungary[3].
Within that procedure, Hungary committed to implement remedial measures to reduce the share of public procurements with single bids, monitor concentration and increase transparency of the public procurement market.
Moreover, Hungary’s Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP) includes the same commitments as milestones and targets[4]. The Commission monitors the correct implementation of remedial measures and will — once Hungary submits a payment request under its RRP — assess the fulfilment of the related milestones and targets.
Until then, all RRP funds are suspended. EU funding to Hungary is also blocked under the horizontal enabling condition regarding the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights[5] related to the programmes under the Common Provisions Regulation[6].
The Commission follows closely the developments in Hungary via its annual Rule of Law Report[7], and will not hesitate to make use of the available tools to protect the financial interests of the EU and enforce EU law.
Source: European Parliament
The management board of the European Union Agency for Asylum (EUAA), of which the Commission is a member, addressed the matter referred to by the Honourable Members, and thoroughly discussed and examined all findings and recommendations made by the European Anti-Fraud Office as a result of its investigation.
The management board has addressed a warning to the Executive Director of the EUAA, together with a formal request for concrete proposals of corrective actions to ensure more efficient and transparent procedures and to strengthen the overall human resources management in the Agency.
The Commission will follow closely the implementation of the corrective actions by the Executive Director.
Source: European Parliament
The management board of the European Union Agency for Asylum (EUAA), of which the Commission is a member, addressed the matter referred to by the Honourable Members, and thoroughly discussed and examined all findings and recommendations made by the European Anti-Fraud Office as a result of its investigation.
The management board has addressed a warning to the Executive Director of the EUAA, together with a formal request for concrete proposals of corrective actions to ensure more efficient and transparent procedures and to strengthen the overall human resources management in the Agency.
The Commission will follow closely the implementation of the corrective actions by the Executive Director.
Source: European Parliament
The Asylum and Migration Management Regulation[1] (AMMR) foresees a mandatory but flexible solidarity mechanism, whereby each Member State has full discretion to choose between the available forms of solidarity, namely relocation, financial contributions and alternative measures (in-kind support).
The AMMR also foresees possible deduction of solidarity contributions in cases of migratory pressure or significant migratory situations.
As Guardian of the Treaties, the Commission monitors the correct application, implementation and enforcement of EU law and may take appropriate legal action in line with the treaties to ensure compliance.
Source: European Investment Bank
The European Investment Bank (EIB) Group has been taking decisive steps to strengthen transparency, accountability, and workplace well-being. These include a 14-point Action Plan, launched in July 2024, developed with staff representatives to address priority areas identified through staff surveys.
To date, the Group has delivered several concrete measures as part of this change:
In May and June 2025, a new staff survey has been carried out. Designed and run by an external independent firm and following consultation with all relevant stakeholders, the survey achieved a record 78% participation rate with responses from over 3 900 colleagues.
The survey identifies strengths and improvements in key areas, as well as opportunities for improvement in areas where action is already taken to strengthen the work culture and atmosphere at the EIB group. The staff survey provides valuable insights to steer next steps.
Survey results show strong alignment with the Group’s mission and values, high appreciation for managers, and a supportive working atmosphere among colleagues. Staff also reported a strong commitment to delivering high-quality work and outcomes and demonstrated good knowledge of the EIB Group Staff Code of Conduct.
Compared to the 2022 survey, there is considerable improvement in perceptions of leadership setting an ethical example, as well as significant improvement in views of the Group’s commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment and recognising support from other teams.
Areas identified for further improvement include decision-making speed, removing barriers to more efficient working, and improving mobility and promotion processes.
These areas had already been identified as priorities, and the EIB Group is stepping up action to improve the working experience for everyone. Feedback from the survey will be discussed with staff representatives to follow up on the findings and continue strengthening the work environment for all EIB Group employees.