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Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Intervention by the Madleen following a Frontex distress signal – clarification of practices and responsibilities – P-002629/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-002629/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Fabrice Leggeri (PfE)

    On 5 June 2025, the vessel Madleen, undertaking a private sea mission to Gaza, was apparently asked by Frontex to approach a boat of migrants in distress off the coast of Crete. According to Rima Hassan MEP, a passenger on board, the Madleen had been identified as being closest to the boat and had received a distress signal from Frontex.

    Upon arrival, the vessel reportedly rescued four people who had jumped into the sea to get away from the Libyan Coast Guard, while the remaining migrants were rescued by another vessel and taken back to Libya.

    In view of the above, I ask the Commission and Frontex:

    • 1.Is it normal Frontex procedure to ask a civilian vessel engaged in a private or political initiative to intervene at sea, and is this practice regulated?
    • 2.Can the Commission confirm the facts reported about the distress signal sent by Frontex and the Madleen’s intervention?
    • 3.What is its legal and operational assessment of this chain of events, and is this situation compatible with international law, in particular the law of the sea, and with the EU’s commitments?

    Submitted: 30.6.2025

    Last updated: 3 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – EU-UK 2025 Leaders’ Summit: Setting the path for further rapprochement – 03-07-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Amid Brexit’s negative consequences for the British economy and with the 2024 leadership change in the United Kingdom, the shift towards closer European Union-UK relations has gained momentum. After months of negotiation, the first EU-UK leaders’ summit took place in London on 19 May 2025. Both sides agreed on global priorities of common strategic interest, such as support for multilateralism and Ukraine’s territorial integrity. The parties also established a Security and Defence Partnership, based on biannual structured foreign policy dialogue and consultation mechanisms to facilitate the exchange of information and cooperation. To this end, regular thematic dialogues on a range of security issues will commence. The partnership paves the way for UK participation in the EU’s common joint defence procurement (SAFE initiative). The summit cemented an accord on full reciprocal access to fishing waters until 30 June 2038. The UK and EU also agreed to extend energy cooperation on a permanent basis. Further negotiations will continue, on the youth mobility scheme (including UK participation in Erasmus+), UK participation in the EU’s internal electricity market, linking emission trading systems and establishing a common sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) area. Many experts see the summit as an important step towards further rapprochement, as the UK indicated willingness to dynamically align some of its laws with the EU legal framework, recognise the authority of the Court of Justice of the EU and cooperate closely on security and defence issues. However, some point to a lack of milestones and solid progress monitoring tools. In numerous resolutions, the European Parliament has called for closer cooperation on trade, security and for UK participation in several EU programmes. Parliament will be involved in scrutinising any implementing legislation and giving or refusing consent if further binding international agreements, such as the SPS area, materialise as a result of the London summit.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Tackling cyberbullying at regional/local level – 03-07-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    The growth in accessibility of online spaces and digital channels has been remarkable in recent years, providing citizens with many benefits, including enhanced communication, greater learning opportunities and easier access to private and public services. However, this growth has seen a commensurate increase in the associated risks and harms. Cyberbullying, cyber-violence and sexual extortion are just some of the dangers to which people, particularly vulnerable people, are exposed in the digital environment. In our ‘always-on’ world, issues such as cyberbullying can be a relentless experience and can leave victims with a constant sense of being under attack. Like the digital space itself, these dangers know no borders, which can make the problem a global issue. The solutions therefore are not ‘one size fits all’, but a combination of regional, national and transnational actions. The examples outlined here at regional level, while varying in size and scope, all have a common thread, which is the recognition of the risks to people and the desire to make a positive change. The approaches taken often involve a coordinated or cooperative style, with the involvement of students, teachers and parents. The message is consistent on the importance of recognising the dangers of the internet. It is important for victims to be able to quickly identify cyberbullying, cyber-violence and sexual extortion, and know how to deal with it and whom to turn to, in order to prevent risks from turning into harm. This briefing has been drafted at the request of a member of the European Committee of the Regions, in the framework of the cooperation agreement between the European Parliament and the Committee.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Revisiting the GDPR: Lessons from the United Kingdom experience – 03-07-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Momentum is building around data protection reform, with the European Commission proposing targeted changes to ease compliance for small and mid-cap enterprises, and the United Kingdom (UK) adopting broad reforms at its third attempt. The UK’s reform proposals, aimed at boosting economic growth and innovation, focused on reducing administrative burdens, promoting data reuse for research, and facilitating artificial intelligence development. However, critics warned these reforms unduly weaken fundamental rights and jeopardise the UK’s adequacy status with the European Union (EU). As the United States pressures the EU to adopt a more lenient regulatory stance, and industry voices call for a wider review of the General Data Protection Regulation, the UK’s experience offers cautionary lessons. Any broader reform effort that is not carefully designed and fails to account for the public’s strong data protection expectations will likely face significant opposition from civil society.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Suppression of the pride march in Istanbul and backsliding of LGBTQIA+ rights in Türkiye – P-002625/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-002625/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Mélissa Camara (Verts/ALE)

    On 29 June 2025, Turkish policy violently dispersed the pride march in Istanbul before arresting at least 50 people, including lawyers and journalists.

    This brutal crackdown is part of an increasingly hostile climate towards LGBTQIA+ people in Türkiye. For a number of months, the Turkish Parliament has been examining bills to ban the ‘promotion of homosexuality’ and restrict content deemed as ‘going against family values’. The bills, which follow similar lines to laws in Russia and Hungary, pose a serious threat to freedom of expression, freedom of association and the principle of non-discrimination.

    Türkiye is both a strategic partner to the EU and a candidate country. Upholding fundamental rights – including the rights of LGBTQIA+ people – must be at the heart of dialogue with the country’s authorities.

    • 1.Does the Commission publicly condemn such repression and legislative abuses?
    • 2.How does the Commission intend to include the protection of LGBTQIA+ rights in its political relations with Türkiye?

    Submitted: 30.6.2025

    Last updated: 3 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Sweden: Europe’s fight against plastic pollution gets boost as EIB backs Swedish innovation packaging company PulPac

    Source: European Investment Bank

    Unsplash

    • EIB lends Swedish sustainable-packaging company PulPac €20 million to advance alternatives to single-use plastics
    • Funding is to scale fibre-based technology that company sell internationally
    • Operation supports EU’s green goals

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) is lending €20 million (around 220 million Swedish kronor) to Swedish sustainable-packaging company PulPac to tackle global plastic pollution. The EIB financing will support development and commercialisation of a fibre-based technology developed by PulPac as an alternative to single-use plastics.

    Gothenburg-based PulPac is scaling up its patented Dry Molded Fiber technology, which produces rigid packaging from renewable cellulose fibre. The technology represents a disruptive improvement over traditional wet molding — currently the dominant method for fibre-based packaging — by enabling faster production with significantly lower environmental impact.

    The company will focus on food and retail applications, including coffee cup lids, plates, cutlery, bottles, fashion hangers, and pharmaceutical packaging.

    The European Union is working to reduce plastic pollution as part of a global effort to protect the environment — particularly marine ecosystems, wildlife, and human health. As part of this initiative, the EU has banned the sale of ten single-use plastic items, including plates, cutlery, straws, and cotton buds, and is actively promoting environmentally friendly alternatives.

    “By supporting PulPac, we are backing an innovative and scalable solution that can make a real difference in the global effort to reduce plastic waste and accelerate the green transition,” said EIB Vice-President Thomas Östros. “This financing underlines the EU’s commitment to supporting next-generation technologies with global potential.”

    The EIB financing for PulPac is structured as a venture debt loan – a form of growth financing tailored to innovative companies. It is provided under the InvestEU programme, which supports the EU’s green transition and efforts to spur innovation, industrial resilience and sustainable economic growth.

    “We are honoured by the EIB’s backing and its recognition of Dry Molded Fiber as a core part of the shift towards sustainable packaging,” said PulPac Chairman Niclas Möller. “This partnership is both a financial milestone and a strong validation of our strategy to build a global licensing platform for fibre-based alternatives to plastic.”

    The investment will accelerate PulPac’s research and development over a five-year period (2025–2029), with a focus on next-generation food service and retail packaging. The project aims to enhance material efficiency, improve product performance, and increase cost competitiveness, while supporting the global scale-up of Dry Molded Fiber through PulPac’s licensing-based business model.

    “The EIB has shown great flexibility in tailoring a financial structure that supports industrial innovation,” said PulPac Chief Financial Officer Roderick Sundell. “With this support, we can scale faster, expand our technology portfolio and bring cost-efficient, sustainable packaging to global markets.”

    Background information

    EIB

    The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Built around eight core priorities, the EIB finances investments that contribute to EU policy objectives by bolstering climate action and the environment, digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, cohesion, agriculture and the bioeconomy, social infrastructure, the capital markets union and a stronger Europe in a more peaceful and prosperous world. 

    The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed nearly €89 billion in new financing for over 900 high-impact projects in 2024, boosting Europe’s competitiveness and security.   

    All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Climate Agreement, as pledged in the organisation’s Climate Bank Roadmap. Almost 60% of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects directly contributing to climate change mitigation, adaptation, and a healthier environment.   

    Fostering market integration and mobilising investment, the Group supported a record of over €100 billion in new investment for Europe’s energy security in 2024 and mobilised €110 billion in growth capital for startups, scale-ups and European pioneers. Approximately half of the EIB’s financing within the EU is directed towards cohesion regions, where per capita income is lower than the EU average. 

    High-quality, up-to-date photos of the organisation’s headquarters for media use are available here.

    The InvestEU programme provides the European Union with long-term funding by leveraging substantial private and public funds in support of a sustainable recovery. It also helps to crowd in private investment for the European Union’s strategic priorities such as the European Green Deal and the digital transition. InvestEU brings all EU financial instruments previously available for supporting investments within the European Union together under one roof, making funding for investment projects in Europe simpler, more efficient and more flexible. The programme consists of three components: the InvestEU Fund, the InvestEU Advisory Hub, and the InvestEU Portal. The InvestEU Fund is deployed through implementing partners that will invest in projects using the EU budget guarantee of €26.2 billion. The entire budget guarantee will back the investment projects of the implementing partners, increase their risk-bearing capacity and thus mobilise at least €372 billion in additional investment.

    PulPac

    PulPac is the home of Dry Molded Fiber – a resource-efficient fibre-forming technology that transforms cellulose fibres into responsible packaging with minimal environmental impact. By making our cutting-edge technology accessible worldwide, we enable brands and manufacturers to meet growing market demands for eco-friendly packaging. As a leader in fibre-forming innovation, PulPac is building an ecosystem of industry partners and licensees, helping drive the shift toward a circular economy and making sustainability a standard across the globe. 

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION OF CENSURE ON THE COMMISSION MOTION OF CENSURE ON THE COMMISSION – B10-0319/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    pursuant to Rule 131 of the Rules of Procedure

    Gheorghe Piperea, Adrian‑George Axinia, Claudiu‑Richard Târziu, Georgiana Teodorescu, Şerban Dimitrie Sturdza, Fidias Panayiotou, Daniel Obajtek, Ivan David, Patryk Jaki, Zsuzsanna Borvendég, Fernand Kartheiser, Nikolaos Anadiotis, Volker Schnurrbusch, Katarína Roth Neveďalová, Irmhild Boßdorf, Virginie Joron, Ondřej Dostál, Cristian Terheş, Christine Anderson, António Tânger Corrêa, Emmanouil Fragkos, Milan Mazurek, Alexander Jungbluth, Siegbert Frank Droese, Petar Volgin, Rada Laykova, Stanislav Stoyanov, Arno Bausemer, Arkadiusz Mularczyk, Bogdan Rzońca, Milan Uhrík, Mary Khan, Tomasz Froelich, Hans Neuhoff, Alexander Sell, René Aust, Petr Bystron, Jacek Ozdoba, Galato Alexandraki, Kosma Złotowski, Waldemar Buda, Tobiasz Bocheński, Małgorzata Gosiewska, Marlena Maląg, Mariusz Kamiński, Dominik Tarczyński, Anna Zalewska, Jadwiga Wiśniewska, Maciej Wąsik, Michał Dworczyk, Alvise Pérez, Luis‑Vicențiu Lazarus, Erik Kaliňák, Judita Laššáková, Waldemar Tomaszewski, Ewa Zajączkowska‑Hernik, Jaak Madison, Anja Arndt, Marcin Sypniewski, Markus Buchheit, Filip Turek, Friedrich Pürner, Kateřina Konečná, Ľuboš Blaha, Thierry Mariani, Jan‑Peter Warnke, Thomas Geisel, Branislav Ondruš, Diana Iovanovici Şoşoacă, Monika Beňová, Marc Jongen, Nikola Bartůšek, Grzegorz Braun, Sarah Knafo, Petras Gražulis, Piotr Müller, Gerald Hauser

    B10‑0319/2025

    Motion of censure on the Commission by the European Parliament

    (2025/2140(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to Article 17(8) of the Treaty on European Union (TEU), Article 234 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) and Article 106a of the Euratom Treaty,

    – having regard to the request submitted under Regulation (EC) No 1049/2001 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 May 2001 regarding public access to European Parliament, Council and Commission documents[1] by Matina Stevi, a journalist employed by The New York Times, seeking access to all text messages exchanged between President Ursula von der Leyen and Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla between 1 January 2021 and 11 May 2022,

    – having regard to the Commission’s refusal of this request on the grounds that it does not possess the requested documents,

    – having regard to the judgment of the General Court of 14 May 2025, in Case T-36/23 Stevi – The New York Times / Commission[2], which found that the Commission has not given a plausible explanation to justify the non- possession of the requested documents concerning its dealings with Pfizer/BioNTech in the procurement of COVID-19 vaccines and which clarified that the Commission’s duty of transparency is fundamental and that refusal to disclose documents must be strictly justified with compelling reasons,

    – having regard to Article 10(3) TEU, which guarantees the right of citizens to participate in the democratic life of the Union and calls for decisions to be taken openly and as closely as possible to the citizen,

    – having regard to Rule 131 of its Rules of Procedure,

    A. whereas the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) opened an investigation in 2022 into the European Commission’s conduct in the negotiation and conclusion of COVID-19 vaccine procurement contracts with Pfizer, which remains ongoing as of 2025 and raises credible concerns regarding potential legal and ethical breaches, as well as potential irregularities in the management of Union financial resources;

    B. whereas the General Court of the European Union, in its order of 5 October 2023 in Case T- 36/23, Stevi – The New York Times/ Commission, ruled that the Commission had failed to provide legally sufficient justification for its refusal to disclose the requested documents related to the Pfizer vaccine negotiations;

    C. whereas the Commission contravened its obligations under Regulation (EC) No 1049/2001 on public access to documents and violated the principles of transparency, good administration, and institutional accountability stipulated in the Treaties;

    D. whereas the Commission allocated EUR 35 billion in public funds for COVID-19 vaccines, yet failed to ensure transparency and accountability, especially as EUR 4 billion worth of doses remained unused, raising serious concerns over financial oversight and administrative failure;

    E. whereas the General Court, in its judgment of 14 May 2025, annulled the European Commission’s decision to deny access to text messages between Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla, exchanged between 1 January 2021 and 11 May 2022, concerning the procurement of COVID-19 vaccines;

    F. whereas the Court of Auditors, in its Special Report No. 22/2024 adopted on 26 September 2024, identified serious shortcomings in the implementation of the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), including insufficient linkages between disbursed funds and actual costs, weak verification mechanisms, risks of double funding, and delays in achieving investment targets, raising significant concerns over the Commission’s oversight of one of the largest post-COVID financial instruments;

    G. whereas the Court of Auditors has pointed out that the lack of robust controls and the reliance on self-reporting by Member States increase the risk of ‘double funding’, a situation in which the same actions may be financed multiple times, leading to inefficiencies and potential misuse of funds;

    H. whereas, transparency and accountability are fundamental principles of the Union’s democratic legitimacy, as per Article 10(3) of the TEU, ensuring public trust in the institutions of the European Union, particularly in contexts involving major public health challenges and substantial financial commitments;

    I. whereas, its Committee on Legal Affairs, on 23 April 2025, unanimously adopted a non-binding opinion rejecting the European Commission’s use of Article 122 TFEU as the legal basis for the proposal for a Regulation establishing the Security Action for Europe (SAFE), a EUR 150 billion defence financing initiative;

    J. whereas the opinion of the Committee on Legal Affairs asserts that the Commission’s invocation of Article 122 TFEU lacks a valid emergency justification, in view of the fact that the provision is intended for short-term measures addressing immediate crises, not for long-term defence investments;

    K. whereas serious concerns have been raised regarding the Commission’s unlawful interference in elections in Member States such as Romania and Germany through a distorted application of Regulation (EU) 2022/2065 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 October 2022 on a Single Market For Digital Services and amending Directive 2000/31/EC (Digital Services Act)[3], which is intended to protect consumers but has been misused to justify vote restrictions and election annulments;

    1. Concludes that the Commission led by President Ursula von der Leyen no longer commands the confidence of Parliament to uphold the principles of transparency, accountability, and good governance essential to a democratic Union;

    2. Concludes that the Commission’s unlawful interference in Member States’ elections, via a misapplication of the Digital Services Act, represents a serious breach of its mandate to uphold democratic principles and respect national sovereignty;

    3. Notes that the Commission’s abusive use of Article 122 TFEU as the legal basis for the SAFE Regulation, a EUR 150 billion defence financing initiative, constitutes a serious breach of competence and a distortion of the article’s intended purpose, which is reserved for economic emergency situations;

    4. Considers that this procedural abuse undermines trust in the Union’s institutions and threatens the integrity of the Union’s legal framework;

    5. Calls on the Commission to resign due to repeated failures to ensure transparency and to its persistent disregard for democratic oversight and the rule of law within the Union;

    6. Instructs its President to forward this motion of censure to the President of the Council and the President of the Commission and to notify them of the result of the vote on it in plenary.

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: RIB Software Recognized as a Leader for Construction Management Software by Independent Research Firm

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Stuttgart, Germany, July 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — STUTTGART, July 3, 2025 – RIB Software, a key provider of construction and BIM software to customers in the AEC industry since its inception in 1961, has been named a Leader in the prestigious 2025 Verdantix Green Quadrant for Construction Management Software (CMS). Recognized for driving innovation and delivering real impact for customers, RIB stands at the forefront of the Leader Quadrant alongside industry players like Autodesk and Procore, but with a distinct focus on solving challenges that matter most to today’s construction professionals.

    The Verdantix Green Quadrant is an independent, evidence-based benchmarking report that evaluates 12 of the world’s most prominent CMS vendors. Based on the proprietary Verdantix Green Quadrant methodology, the evaluation comprised two-and-a-half-hour live product demonstrations with pre-set scenarios, desk research and vendor responses to an 83-point questionnaire covering four technical, five functional and eight market momentum categories. RIB’s inclusion in the Leader quadrant was driven by its strong performance across both product capabilities and market momentum—a reflection of its commitment to helping construction teams build smarter, safer, and more sustainably.

    “This recognition validates our continued efforts to deliver forward-thinking, end-to-end solutions that empower the entire construction value chain from owners, to general contractors and subcontractors, at every stage of a project,” said RIB Software CEO, René Wolf. 

    “It also highlights our unique ability to understand our customers’ real-world challenges and translate them into innovative software solutions that bridge process gaps, drive greater efficiency and sustainability, and enable more transparent, collaborative ways of working. The result is projects that are delivered with stronger margins, higher quality, and greater confidence.”

    Key strengths highlighted in the report include:

    • Robust health and safety compliance functionality
    • Strong field operations and mobile capabilities
    • An extensive solution suite that offers a comprehensive one-stop shop CMS 
    • A clear roadmap for AI, analytics, and 6D BIM innovation

    According to Verdantix, the construction industry is under increasing pressure to overcome productivity challenges, regulatory shifts, and the need for seamless data continuity. RIB’s platform stands out for its ability to unify these complex demands through advanced analytics, mobile-first design, and scalable architecture tailored to diverse project needs.

    This achievement underscores RIB’s position as a strategic technology partner for the global construction industry, driving digital excellence and supporting a safer, more efficient built environment.

    “This recognition from Verdantix reinforces our commitment to raising the bar in compliance and safety across the industry,” Wolf concludes. “We’re proud to lead in this area, helping our customers proactively manage risk, stay ahead of evolving regulations, and achieve measurable sustainability outcomes. But we see this as just the beginning. AI is the next frontier in construction technology, and we’re fully committed to bringing its potential to life for our customers. Our goal is to be the leading AI partner in AEC, delivering intelligent, connected solutions that truly transform how projects are planned, built, and delivered.” 

    About RIB Software

    Driven by transformative digital technologies and trends, RIB is committed to propelling the industry forward and making engineering and construction more efficient and sustainable.

    Throughout its 60+ year history, the business has expanded its global footprint to incorporate more than 550,000 users and 2,300 talents, with the vision of transforming the operation into a worldwide powerhouse and providing innovative software solutions to its core markets.

    Managing the entire project lifecycle, from planning and construction, to operation and maintenance, RIB connects people, processes and data in innovative ways to ensure its customers always complete projects within budget, on time and to high quality, while reducing their carbon footprints. 

    RIB Software is a proud Schneider Electric company. 

    For more information, please visit: www.rib-software.com.

    About Verdantix

    Verdantix is an independent research and advisory firm that serves a global client base consisting of the world’s most innovative corporations, technology and services vendors, and investors. Our insights and analysis form a foundation of the most granular data available in the marketplaces we serve. This allows us to make highly accurate far-reaching forecasts and big-picture predictions that business leaders depend on when they are setting out to reach their most important goals. verdantix.com

    Media Contact

    Kim Immelman

    Global Marketing Leader

    kim.immelman@rib-software.com 

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – COVID-19 vaccines: French contribution to financing doses for Spain (EUR 400 million?) – E-002574/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002574/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Virginie Joron (PfE)

    The Commission has refused to specify how many COVID-19 vaccine doses were purchased only to be destroyed[1]. ‘[T]he Commission secured a maximum amount of up to 4.6 billion doses of COVID-19 vaccines in agreement with and on behalf of the Member States, without requiring them to commit to purchasing this maximum amount.’ Yet less than a billion doses were actually administered.

    According to the European Commission, the European Regional Development Fund was mobilised by different Spanish regions (around EUR 2 billion), as well as Lisbon (EUR 238 million) and Estonia (EUR 52 million) to finance the purchase of vaccine doses up until the end of December 2023 and carry out communication campaigns[2]. EU funds did not directly finance these doses, but the EU partners contributed 100 % in each case.

    Considering that no similar information has been found for France or other countries on the European Commission’s website:

    • 1.Which other EU countries financed their purchases of COVID-19 vaccines with European regional funds or other EU instruments?
    • 2.How many doses were financed by European regional funds in 2023, when the pandemic officially ended in spring 2022?
    • 3.Has the Commission checked whether the doses paid for with EU funds but not delivered were produced by Pfizer?

    Submitted: 25.6.2025

    • [1] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-9-2023-003364_EN.html
    • [2] https://kohesio.ec.europa.eu/en/projects?sort=Total-Budget-(descending)&keywords=vaccine&page=3;https:%2F%2Fkohesio.ec.europa.eu%2Ffr%2Fprojets%2FQ4687090; https://kohesio.ec.europa.eu/en/projects/Q4485013; https://kohesio.ec.europa.eu/en/projects/Q4485013; https://kohesio.ec.europa.eu/en/projects/Q4687136; https://kohesio.ec.europa.eu/en/projects/Q4687099; https://kohesio.ec.europa.eu/en/projects/Q6860901; Andalusia (EUR 322 228 930 and EUR 44 731 652), Barcelona (EUR 293 927 550 and EUR 40 802 868), Madrid (EUR 255 179 120 and EUR 35 423 830)[2], Lisbon (EUR 238 684 490) and Estonia (EUR 52 767 804)
    Last updated: 3 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Children and deepfakes – 03-07-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Deepfakes – videos, images and audio created using artificial intelligence (AI) to realistically simulate or fabricate content – are booming on the internet. They are becoming increasingly accessible, as what previously required powerful tools can now be done with free mobile apps and limited digital skills. At the same time, they are becoming increasingly sophisticated and therefore more difficult to detect, especially audio deepfakes. While deepfakes have applications in entertainment and creativity, their potential for spreading fake news, creating non-consensual content and undermining trust in digital media is problematic, as they are evolving faster than existing legislative frameworks. A projected 8 million deepfakes will be shared in 2025, up from 500 000 in 2023. The European Commission states that pornographic material accounts for about 98 % of deepfakes. Deepfakes pose greater risks for children than adults, as children’s cognitive abilities are still developing and children have more difficulty identifying deepfakes. Children are also more susceptible to harmful online practices including grooming, cyberbullying and child sexual abuse material. This highlights the need for legal action and cooperation, including developing the tools and methods needed to tackle these threats at the required scale and pace. Furthermore, there is a growing need for enhanced generative AI literacy for children, educators and parents. There is also a need for increased industry efforts and better implementation of relevant European Union (EU) legislation such as the Artificial Intelligence Act and the Digital Services Act. Monitoring indicators on children’s online use at the EU level are currently non-existent, highlighting the need for their implementation.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Commission’s assessment of illegal charges relating to the Takata recall in Cyprus – P-002619/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-002619/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Giorgos Georgiou (The Left)

    In his reply (P-001974/2025[1]) of 26 June 2025, Commission Vice-President Séjourné underlines that Regulation (EU) 2023/988 on general product safety reinforces and introduces new and more stringent obligations for economic operators on, inter alia, product safety recalls and the right of consumers to cost-free, timely and effective remedies.

    However, in our question of 16 May 2025 we made clear reference to recorded infringements committed by two representatives of manufacturing companies, who were indirectly passing on the cost of repairs by charging for mandatory diagnostic tests prior to replacement.

    What is the state of play as regards the assessment of compliance with EU legislation and the structured dialogue with the Republic of Cyprus referred to by the Commission?

    Submitted: 30.6.2025

    • [1] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/P-10-2025-001974-ASW_EN.html
    Last updated: 3 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the draft Commission regulation on Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1093 of 22 May 2025 laying down rules for the application of Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards a list of countries that present a low or high risk of producing relevant commodities for which the relevant products do not comply with Article 3, point (a) – B10-0321/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    B10‑0321/2025

    European Parliament resolution on the draft Commission regulation on Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1093 of 22 May 2025 laying down rules for the application of Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards a list of countries that present a low or high risk of producing relevant commodities for which the relevant products do not comply with Article 3, point (a)

    (2025/2739(RPS))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1093 of 22 May 2025 laying down rules for the application of Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards a list of countries that present a low or high risk of producing relevant commodities for which the relevant products do not comply with Article 3, point (a)[1],

    – having regard to Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 31 May 2023 on the making available on the Union market and the export from the Union of certain commodities and products associated with deforestation and forest degradation and repealing Regulation (EU) No 995/2010[2], and in particular Article 29(2) thereof,

    – having regard to Article 11 of Regulation (EU) No 182/2011 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 February 2011 laying down the rules and general principles concerning mechanisms for control by Member States of the Commission’s exercise of implementing powers[3],

    – having regard to Rule 115(2) and (3) of its Rules of Procedure,

    – having regard to the motion for a resolution of the Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety,

    – having regard to the plenary vote of the European Parliament of 14 November 2024 on the Regulation amending Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 as regards provisions relating to the date of application;

    Concerns about data quality and methodological robustness,

    A. whereas the proposed risk categorisation of countries under Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 does not accurately reflect the current realities in the countries concerned, as it is based on outdated data and fails to incorporate all relevant and available risk indicators;

    B. whereas Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1093 does not accurately reflect realities in the countries concerned as it fails to consider key real-world factors, most notably current land-use dynamics and forest degradation; whereas recognising degradation as a risk factor would result in certain Member States being placed in higher risk categories, thereby challenging the assumption that supply chains within the Union are automatically low-risk[4];

    C. whereas key developments in governance, deforestation trends, and enforcement mechanisms that have occurred since 31 December 2020, which is the cut-off date referred to in Article 2 of Regulation (EU) 2023/1115, are not adequately reflected in the methodology;

    D. whereas the data relied on for the risk categorisation are primarily derived from the Global Forest Resources Assessment carried out by the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations, with the latest full-cycle country submissions predating 2020, and therefore such data do not adequately or fairly represent the recent national efforts to prevent deforestation, updated land-use policies, real-time satellite monitoring improvements and the latest deforestation trends in several countries[5];

    E. whereas the methodology for the risk categorisation of countries lacks transparency in relation to how various risk factors are weighted and does not account for regional variability within countries; whereas this raises serious concerns about the fairness and credibility of the classification methodology;

    F. whereas the methodology for the risk categorisation of countries is flawed because it focuses primarily on aggregate historical deforestation rates and this approach disregards the multidimensional nature of deforestation risk, failing to consider the full scope of indicators set out in Article 29 of Regulation (EU) 2023/1115;

    G. whereas the approach underlying the current methodology established in Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 does not provide sufficient flexibility to accommodate timely updates, thereby creating significant market uncertainty and potential volatility;

    H. whereas, without a clearly defined mechanism for regular and transparent reassessment, the classification of countries in risk categories becoming misaligned with evolving conditions, thereby undermining both the effectiveness of Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 and the functioning of global commodity markets;

    I. whereas the absence of clear pathways for countries to have their risk categorisation changed through demonstrable progress undermines the role of Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 as a positive incentive mechanism and limits its potential to drive sustainable transformation on the ground;

    Analysis of challenges in the first risk category of countries (the ‘category low risk’)

    J. whereas the criterion of net forest loss between 2015 and 2020, used to determine the category low risk referred to in Article 29(1), point (b), of Regulation (EU) 2023/1115, considers total forest area loss rather than deforestation as narrowly defined under that Regulation, thereby including areas of temporary forest cover change or forest management not associated with land-use conversion, which undermines methodological consistency and legal certainty;

    K. whereas the methodology for the for the risk categorisation of countries introduces a relative threshold of 0,2 % annual forest area loss, and an absolute threshold of 70 000 hectares of annual forest loss, without providing a clear rationale for those specific values; whereas it is noteworthy that certain high-deforestation countries, such as the United States, fall just below the absolute threshold, raising questions about the objectivity and robustness of the chosen benchmarks;

    L. whereas the assessment of deforestation risk based on the expansion of cropland areas used for relevant commodities, as defined in Article 2, point (1), of Regulation (EU) 2023/1115, and the scale of livestock and wood production lacks precision; whereas the inclusion of overall wood production as a proxy for deforestation risks is methodologically questionable, as it conflates lawful forestry activities with deforestation driven by land-use change;

    Lack of granularity and context sensitivity

    M. whereas the current system of having only three risk categories is insufficient to adequately differentiate between countries with vastly different levels of deforestation risk;

    N. whereas the lack of a nuanced approach could undermine the incentive for more ambitious governments to take further action, as it effectively penalises progress and fails to recognise meaningful efforts to combat deforestation;

    O. whereas the Commission should address the methodological shortcomings of the current tripartite classification system by considering the introduction of a fourth risk category — ‘negligible risk’ — to reflect the reality that in certain countries or regions, the risk of deforestation or forest degradation is effectively negligible due to robust legal frameworks, low land-use change dynamics and sustainable land management practices;

    P. whereas the current system risks oversimplifying deforestation risk by granting the status to countries based on outdated data or national averages, which could create a false sense of security and potentially reduce the due diligence obligation for products originating from areas where illegal deforestation persists;

    Q. whereas, although the current data have shown a localised increase in deforestation in certain regions of the globe, such developments underscore the need for a granular, region-specific monitoring rather than static national risk classifications, which pose a risk of mischaracterising the overall trend and of ignoring regional progress or setbacks;

    R. whereas credible research and long-term studies, such as ‘Deforestation in the Amazon: Past, Present and Future’[6] published by the Amazon Network of Georeferenced Socio-Environmental Information in 2023, demonstrate the complexity and variability of deforestation dynamics driven by political cycles, enforcement levels, and local socio-economic conditions, and therefore support the need for a more adaptive, context-sensitive approach rather than rigid country benchmarks;

    S. whereas the current risk classification model fails to account for the volatility of global commodity markets, where price fluctuations, trade dynamics, and demand shifts can rapidly alter deforestation pressures;

    T. whereas the risk classification should also allow for the creation of a regulated compensation mechanism, applicable exclusively outside of primary or high-biodiversity areas;

    Concerns about fairness, legitimacy and global engagement

    U. whereas the current country benchmarking system may disincentivise cooperation and data sharing by countries producing relevant commodities, particularly if they perceive the risk categorisation of countries as unfair or politically motivated; whereas fostering mutual trust and engagement requires a fair, evidence-based and collaborative approach that encourages transparency and accountability rather than punitive labelling;

    V. whereas environmental and civil society organisations from countries producing relevant commodities have raised concerns about the lack of inclusive consultation in the development of the country benchmarking system, highlighting the importance of participatory processes that involve indigenous communities, local stakeholders, and regional authorities;

    1. Considers that Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1093 exceeds the implementing powers provided for in Regulation (EU) 2023/1115;

    2. Calls on the Commission to repeal Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1093;

    3. Calls on the Commission to revise the country benchmarking system to ensure it is based on up-to-date data, allows for regional differentiation, and includes transparent weighting of risk indicators;

    4. Urges the Commission to establish clear, time-bound, and transparent procedures for reassessing risk categorisation of countries regularly based on measurable progress and updated scientific data;

    5. Stresses the importance of engaging with countries producing relevant commodities and stakeholders through inclusive and participatory processes, and of providing support for forest governance reforms and traceability systems;

    6. Calls for complementary measures, such as forest partnerships, technical assistance, and fair trade incentives, to accompany the benchmarking process and promote sustainable transformation in commodity-producing regions;

    7. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council and the Commission, and to the governments and parliaments of the Member States.

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: At a Glance – What if Europe restored its primary forests? – 03-07-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Initiatives to restore European primary forests and thereby reverse centuries of decline are gaining traction. Such restoration could deliver significant ecological, environmental, climate-related and socio-cultural benefits, ranging from biodiversity conservation, water regulation and climate mitigation, to ecotourism and renewed human relationships with nature. However, a number of challenges and trade-offs need to be addressed, including the lack of primary forest mapping, concerns over human exclusion and potential economic losses.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Common Agricultural Policy under pressure – the future of Pillars I and II and the coherence of the EU budget after 2027 – E-002531/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002531/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Piotr Müller (ECR)

    Speaking to the Walloon Parliament, Budget Commissioner Piotr Serafin gave an assurance that direct payments to farmers would remain protected in the future EU budget.

    This is easy to say, but it doesn’t give the complete picture. Claiming that Pillar I will be protected without giving a guarantee for Pillar II is a ruse which undermines the coherence of the Common Agricultural Policy. It is the rural development funds which make decisions on investment, modernisation and the long-term competitiveness of agriculture.

    The lack of a guarantee for Pillar II gives rise to legitimate fears that it will be phased out and that farmers will lose their influence over the shaping of agricultural policy. What have been announced as ‘simplifications’ are actually a smokescreen for shifting funds outside the CAP, and this is happening at a time when the cohesion policy budget is also set to be cut.

    In light of the above:

    • 1.Can the Commission confirm unequivocally that both Pillar I and Pillar II of the CAP will remain fully protected in the next EU budget, and that the funding for Pillar I will not be reduced?
    • 2.How does the Commission respond to the accusation that the absence of any guarantee for Pillar II is not merely a technical problem, but an attack on the coherence and raison d’être of the CAP as a whole?
    • 3.Is the Commission conducting genuine consultations (rather than simply the appearance of consultations) with representatives of the agricultural sector on this matter? If it is, what specific positions are farmers putting forward and how does the Commission intend to respond to them?

    Submitted: 24.6.2025

    Last updated: 3 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Latest news – Meeting in Brussels on Thursday, 3 July 2025 – Delegation for relations with Australia and New Zealand

    Source: European Parliament

    The next ordinary meeting of the Delegation for relations with Australia and New Zealand (DANZ) will take place on Thursday, 3 July 2025 at 13h00 in Brussels.

    It will be a preparatory meeting for the forthcoming 29th EU-New Zealand Inter-Parliamentary Meeting (IPM) scheduled on 21-23 July in New Zealand with an exchange of views with H.E. Mr Simon Draper, Head of mission and Ambassador of New Zealand to the EU and NATO and Mr Roland Honekamp, Deputy Head of Division for Japan, Korea, Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific, EEAS.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Kenya’s largest hospital gets EIB Global support to bolster and green its energy supply

    Source: European Investment Bank

    EIB

    The European Investment Bank’s development arm (EIB Global) will help Kenya’s largest hospital expand and green its energy supply. EIB Global will advise Kenyatta National Hospital in Nairobi on the installation of a solar-power system.

    The goal of the project is to meet growing demand for electricity at the hospital while increasing its energy independence and reducing its carbon footprint.

    EIB Global will offer the assistance in partnership with German development agency (GIZ) through a grant of 7.3 million Kenyan shillings (€50,000) from a multi-donor initiative run by the World Bank and EIB for cities – the Cities Climate Finance Gap Fund. The support will cover technical studies and a financial assessment regarding the planned installation of the photovoltaic (PV) system.

    The hospital, which is also the largest public health centre in East Africa, has a capacity of 2,400 beds and serves about 2 million patients annually. High grid costs in Kenya are straining the budget of the hospital and power outages are forcing it to rely on diesel generators that meet only about 65% of demand, leaving critically ill patients at risk.

    “Our goal is a climate smart future,” said EIB Regional Hub for East Africa Head Edward Claessen.  “We are committed to supporting Kenyatta National Hospital in its transition to green electricity. The forthcoming technical studies will lay the ground for successful implementation of the PV system.”

    Under the support agreement, GIZ experts will carry out the technical and financial evaluations for implementation and maintenance of the solar-power system.

    Kenyatta National Hospital intends to direct savings on energy bills resulting from the planned PV system to areas such as purchasing medical supplies, hiring more staff and upgrading facilities.

    “We are grateful to the European Investment Bank, GIZ and the City Climate Finance Gap Fund for their support through this technical assistance programme,” said Kenyatta National Hospital Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Evanson Kamuri. “This collaboration marks a significant step forward in our commitment to sustainable healthcare delivery. By integrating energy efficiency and climate-smart solutions, Kenyatta National Hospital is not only enhancing operational resilience but also setting a benchmark for environmentally responsible healthcare infrastructure in the region.”

    The EIB Global and GIZ support will lead to concrete recommendations to the hospital on attaining reliable and efficient power supply through the planned PV system. The studies will assess the hospital’s current energy-consumption patterns, evaluate the feasibility of integrating the planned PV system into the hospital power grid, provide financial modelling for installation and maintenance and address regulatory questions.

    The European Investment Bank, through the Cities Climate Gap Fund support cities in the early stages of project development by assessing the actual challenges, understanding the risks and designing fit-for-purpose solutions that resonate with their goals for a climate- smart future.

    Background information

    About EIB Global

    The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. It finances investments that contribute to EU policy objectives.  

    EIB Global is the EIB Group’s specialised arm devoted to increasing the impact of international partnerships and development finance, and a key partner of Global Gateway. EIB Global aims to support €100 billion of investment by the end of 2027 — around one-third of the overall target of this EU initiative. Within Team Europe, EIB Global fosters strong, focused partnerships alongside fellow development finance institutions and civil society. EIB Global brings the EIB Group closer to people, companies and institutions through offices across the world. High-quality, up-to-date photos of the organisation’s headquarters for media use are available here.

    About Gap Fund:

    The Cities Climate Finance Gap Fund is a multi-donor fund, implemented by the World Bank and the EIB in collaboration with GIZ and other city networks. Gap Fund provides much-needed funding for early-stage technical assistance and capacity building so that cities from low- and middle-income countries can operationalise their climate action plans, develop robust project concepts, and access climate finance resources. Since its establishment in 2020, it has supported 183 cities in 67 countries.

    On 20 September 2023, the governments of Germany and Luxembourg announced new funding of € 50 million  for the City Climate Finance Gap Fund (Gap Fund) with an additional €5 million on the horizon, these resources will support the development of low-carbon and climate-resilient urban investments and will nearly double the fund’s capitalization, bringing it to €105 million, making it one of the largest early-stage technical assistance funds for cities and climate.

    Kenya’s largest hospital gets EIB Global support to bolster and green its energy supply

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    Kenya’s largest hospital gets EIB Global support to bolster and green its energy supply

    ©EIB
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AMENDMENTS 001-002 – REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to Austria, Poland, Czechia, Slovakia and Moldova relating to floods occurred in September 2024 and Bosnia and Herzegovina relating to floods occurred in October 2024 – A10-0114/2025(001-002)

    Source: European Parliament

    AMENDMENTS 001-002
    REPORT
    on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to Austria, Poland, Czechia, Slovakia and Moldova relating to floods occurred in September 2024 and Bosnia and Herzegovina relating to floods occurred in October 2024
    (COM(2025)0250 – C10-0102/2025 – 2025/0138(BUD))
    Committee on Budgets
    Rapporteur: Andrzej Halicki

    Source : © European Union, 2025 – EP

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AMENDMENTS 007-007 – REPORT containing a motion for a non-legislative resolution on the proposal for a Council decision on the conclusion, on behalf of the European Union, of the Implementing Protocol (2025-2030) to the Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the European Union and the Government of Greenland and the Government of Denmark – A10-0103/2025(007-007)

    Source: European Parliament

    AMENDMENTS 007-007
    REPORT
    containing a motion for a non-legislative resolution on the proposal for a Council decision on the conclusion, on behalf of the European Union, of the Implementing Protocol (2025-2030) to the Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the European Union and the Government of Greenland and the Government of Denmark
    (COM(2024)0479 – C10-0227/2024 – 2024/0263M(NLE))
    Committee on Fisheries
    Rapporteur: Emma Fourreau

    Source : © European Union, 2025 – EP

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: How to finance affordable and sustainable housing

    Source: European Investment Bank

    “Housing problems are local problems,” says the European Investment Bank’s Muent. “Lack of supply is very often due to local factors—land availability, planning, etc. What we need is a financial toolbox with generic tools and instruments which can be tailored to local needs and then scaled at regional or national level to deliver hundreds of thousands of homes, not tens.”

    To create just such an instrument, the European Investment Bank has been working with the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Regional and Urban Policy on a new model financial instrument for affordable housing that national and regional authorities can use. This blueprint helps national and regional authorities, or public banks such as National Promotional Banks which often administer this kind of instrument, to channel existing public funds, including EU funds for poorer regions, into the housing sector in a way that encourages more private and public investment.

    The key to the success of such financial instruments is that they allow for flexible combinations of loans and grants—for example, capital grants or interest-rate subsidies—to “de-risk” projects, making them more attractive to a wider range of investors, and to set the right mix of funding to meet local needs.

    “The benefit of the financial instrument is that it introduces more favourable terms through the grant combination,” says Emily Smith, a principal advisor at the European Investment Bank. “If the projects have viability issues, then there’s the option to use some of the resource as a capital grant. You could channel some of it as an interest-rate subsidy, if you want to lower the cost of the financing. You could use capital rebate to reward the achievement of certain performance objectives by writing off part of the loan.”

    This flexible approach allows Member States to adapt the model to their specific needs and market conditions, recognising that housing markets vary significantly from country to country and even from region to region.

    This model financial instrument for affordable housing also aligns with the European Commission’s push to refocus its cohesion funds, which it reserves for economically disadvantaged parts of Europe, on pressing priorities such as housing. The Commission has also clarified other rules to ensure that its structural funds, which are available to all regions, can also be used for housing.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Strategic approach to animal rights extremism – E-002606/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002606/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Sander Smit (PPE)

    Violent animal rights activism against livestock farmers and food companies is on the rise in the Netherlands and in Europe more generally, resulting in intimidation, violent occupations and arson. Recently, a large-scale suspected arson took place in Blokker, where nine trucks were deliberately set on fire. Shortly afterwards, somebody entered the yard of a Dutch MP and property was defaced. Similar incidents include the violent home invasion and intimidating break-in at the farm of the prospective German agriculture minister Günther Felßner (2025), the arson attack at a duck slaughterhouse in Ermelo (2023) and the violent occupation of a pigsty in Boxtel (2019). These attacks cause significant material and psychological damage to farming families. Despite alarming signals from the Dutch Platform Veilig Ondernemen (PVO) about an increase in intimidation targeting farmers and perpetrated by animal rights extremists, official EU registration of these incidents is conspicuous by its absence.

    • 1.Does the European Commission recognise the seriousness of animal rights extremism and, given the use of violence and intimidation to achieve political goals, does it classify these actions as terrorist attacks?
    • 2.What concrete measures is the European Commission taking to detect and tackle networks of animal rights extremists operating across borders within the Union?
    • 3.Is the Commission prepared, in cooperation with Europol and the Member States, to map the threat of extremist animal rights activism, including by setting up an EU hotline?

    Supporter[1]

    Submitted: 27.6.2025

    • [1] This question is supported by a Member other than the author: Jessika Van Leeuwen (PPE)
    Last updated: 3 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Joint press release: Investment of €3.66 billion from EU emissions trading revenues in cleaner energy systems  

    Source: EuroStat – European Statistics

    European Commission Press release Brussels, 03 Jul 2025 Today, the European Commission and the European Investment Bank announced that €3.66 billion have been disbursed from the Modernisation Fund to support 34 energy related projects in nine EU Member States.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman David Scott Statement on Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman David Scott (GA-13)

    WASHINGTON D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman David Scott released the following statement after voting against Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill

    “I voted NO on the Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill because it will transfer over $4.5 trillion in tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans at the expense of working families, children, veterans, and seniors across Georgia.

    This bill will be a disaster for Georgia. It slashes more than $1 trillion from Medicaid, Medicare, and the ACA—kicking 750,000 of our fellow Georgians off their healthcare while raising premiums for another 1.2 million. As many as 60 rural hospitals, some of which are already on the brink of closure, are going to see their funding disappear. Cutting almost $200 billion from SNAP—including a mathematically unworkable state cost-sharing plan—will force Georgia to shoulder $500 million in new SNAP costs. Now let us be clear about what this all really means: more children, vets, and seniors in our state will go hungry. Despite my efforts to shield veterans from losing SNAP benefits, Republicans refused to even vote for my amendment that would have protected the work requirement exemptions for vulnerable veterans. Once again, Republicans have turned their backs on our veterans and working families—using them as a pawn in their partisan games.  

    This isn’t just legislative vandalism—it is a direct assault on basic human dignity, disguised as fiscal responsibility. I will fight tooth and nail to prevent this travesty from hurting the people I was sent here to protect—and I urge every American to stand up and speak out against this betrayal.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman David Scott Statement on Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman David Scott (GA-13)

    WASHINGTON D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman David Scott released the following statement after voting against Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill

    “I voted NO on the Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill because it will transfer over $4.5 trillion in tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans at the expense of working families, children, veterans, and seniors across Georgia.

    This bill will be a disaster for Georgia. It slashes more than $1 trillion from Medicaid, Medicare, and the ACA—kicking 750,000 of our fellow Georgians off their healthcare while raising premiums for another 1.2 million. As many as 60 rural hospitals, some of which are already on the brink of closure, are going to see their funding disappear. Cutting almost $200 billion from SNAP—including a mathematically unworkable state cost-sharing plan—will force Georgia to shoulder $500 million in new SNAP costs. Now let us be clear about what this all really means: more children, vets, and seniors in our state will go hungry. Despite my efforts to shield veterans from losing SNAP benefits, Republicans refused to even vote for my amendment that would have protected the work requirement exemptions for vulnerable veterans. Once again, Republicans have turned their backs on our veterans and working families—using them as a pawn in their partisan games.  

    This isn’t just legislative vandalism—it is a direct assault on basic human dignity, disguised as fiscal responsibility. I will fight tooth and nail to prevent this travesty from hurting the people I was sent here to protect—and I urge every American to stand up and speak out against this betrayal.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Eritrea: Activities to Share Experiences of Successful Youth

    Source: APO


    .

    The Eritrean community in Sweden organized a program in Stockholm aimed at transferring the experiences of successful Eritrean youth.

    The program, conducted by the Eritrean community in Husby-Kista-Akalla under the theme “From Asmara to Husby,” sought to showcase the efforts and achievements of Eritrean youth in education, nationalism, and the preservation of their culture and identity.

    Mr. Yonas Tesfay noted that, thanks to the relentless efforts of the Eritrean communities, many youths have succeeded in various professions—including research, medicine, engineering, computer technology, banking, sports, politics, and the arts. He added that efforts will continue to expand similar initiatives to all Eritrean communities.

    During the event, several professionals shared their experiences, including Dr. Haben Mogos: Ms. Sabela Temesgen, innovation and investment expert; Ms. Simona Abraham, television production expert; Mr. Simon Mateos, artist; Mr. Paulos Yohannes, athlete; Mr. Tedros Goitom, film editing expert; and Mr. Dejen Meles.

    Founding members of the Husby-Kista-Akalla community, Mr. Gebrehiwet Abraham and Priest Ezra Gebremedhin also provided briefings on the establishment of the community, the stages it has passed through, and the benefits of communal gatherings in fostering nationalism.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Morocco: His Majesty (HM) the King Congratulates Belarus’ President on National Day

    Source: APO


    .

    His Majesty King Mohammed VI addressed a message of congratulations to the President of the Republic of Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko, on the occasion of his country’s national day.

    In this message, the Sovereign conveys to President Lukashenko His warmest congratulations, along with His best wishes for good health and happiness, and for further progress and prosperity to the people of Belarus.

    “I avail myself of this opportunity to commend the relations based on close friendship and mutual esteem between our countries. I therefore look forward to continuing to work with Your Excellency to strengthen our ties and expand our cooperation, for the mutual benefit of our peoples,” HM the King writes.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Kingdom of Morocco – Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pfluger’s Bill to Unlock Domestic LNG Potential Advanced by House Energy and Commerce Committee

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

    Read his remarks as prepared for delivery below:

    Section 3 of the Natural Gas Act requires that natural gas exports to countries that have a free-trade agreement with the US be approved without delay. For countries that do not have a free-trade agreement with the US, the Energy Secretary is required to approve export requests unless they find such exports “will not be consistent with the public interest.” Therefore, the Natural Gas Act includes a rebuttable presumption in favor of authorizing U.S. LNG exports.

    In early 2024, after succumbing to political pressure from environmental activists, the Biden-Harris administration announced an indefinite ban on issuing export permits to non-free trade agreement (FTA) countries while it reviewed the climate impacts of U.S.LNG.

    During this ban, Russia overtook the US as the lead gas supplier to Europe, long-term American contracts were jeopardized, and global buyers were forced to look towards less clean sources.

    Thankfully, the Trump Administration quickly reversed this ban, and just last month, DOE issued its first final LNG export approval. My legislation, theUnlocking OurDomesticLNGPotential Act would ensure a ban is never placed on US LNG exports again.

    By removing DOE from the process, export restrictions would be repealed, and LNG exports would have equal treatment with other commodities.

    LNG exports unequivocally benefit our economy and domestic prices. Congress must act to remove the politics from energy exports, just as this Committee did when it lifted the crude oil export ban.

    The IEA expects global gas demand to reach record highs in the coming years, underscoring the need for new LNG supply. It must be the United States, not Iran or Russia, who meets that demand and supplies affordable, clean, and abundant LNG to the world.

    Iran is one of only four countries with substantial proven natural gas reserves. The conflict in the Middle East, instigated by Iran’s actions over the last two years, reminds us of the geopolitical risks posed when adversarial regimes control critical energy supplies. At a time when Iran seeks to leverage its resources for strategic influence in direct opposition to US interests, American LNG must fill the gap in the global market. Our allies and trading partners should not be dependent on nefarious actors that use energy revenues to fund terrorism. US LNG offers not only energy security but also geopolitical stability, reliability, and cleaner alternatives for buyers around the world.

    I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 1949, and I yield back.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pfluger’s Bill to Unlock Domestic LNG Potential Advanced by House Energy and Commerce Committee

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

    Read his remarks as prepared for delivery below:

    Section 3 of the Natural Gas Act requires that natural gas exports to countries that have a free-trade agreement with the US be approved without delay. For countries that do not have a free-trade agreement with the US, the Energy Secretary is required to approve export requests unless they find such exports “will not be consistent with the public interest.” Therefore, the Natural Gas Act includes a rebuttable presumption in favor of authorizing U.S. LNG exports.

    In early 2024, after succumbing to political pressure from environmental activists, the Biden-Harris administration announced an indefinite ban on issuing export permits to non-free trade agreement (FTA) countries while it reviewed the climate impacts of U.S.LNG.

    During this ban, Russia overtook the US as the lead gas supplier to Europe, long-term American contracts were jeopardized, and global buyers were forced to look towards less clean sources.

    Thankfully, the Trump Administration quickly reversed this ban, and just last month, DOE issued its first final LNG export approval. My legislation, theUnlocking OurDomesticLNGPotential Act would ensure a ban is never placed on US LNG exports again.

    By removing DOE from the process, export restrictions would be repealed, and LNG exports would have equal treatment with other commodities.

    LNG exports unequivocally benefit our economy and domestic prices. Congress must act to remove the politics from energy exports, just as this Committee did when it lifted the crude oil export ban.

    The IEA expects global gas demand to reach record highs in the coming years, underscoring the need for new LNG supply. It must be the United States, not Iran or Russia, who meets that demand and supplies affordable, clean, and abundant LNG to the world.

    Iran is one of only four countries with substantial proven natural gas reserves. The conflict in the Middle East, instigated by Iran’s actions over the last two years, reminds us of the geopolitical risks posed when adversarial regimes control critical energy supplies. At a time when Iran seeks to leverage its resources for strategic influence in direct opposition to US interests, American LNG must fill the gap in the global market. Our allies and trading partners should not be dependent on nefarious actors that use energy revenues to fund terrorism. US LNG offers not only energy security but also geopolitical stability, reliability, and cleaner alternatives for buyers around the world.

    I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 1949, and I yield back.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pfluger, Colleagues Sound the Alarm on Urgent Need for U.S. Drone Defenses

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

    WASHINGTON, DC — As first reported in Fox News, Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) joined 24 of his colleagues in a letter to U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem inquiring about the status of defense measures for U.S. military installations, government buildings, and critical infrastructure from the threat of drones. This letter follows a growing number of drone attacks launched by Israel and Ukraine to penetrate deep into Iranian and Russian territory, respectively. 

    In part, the members wrote, “Since 9/11, our nation has not suffered a major coordinated attack on our own soil. While the government has done good work in preventing an attack like 9/11 from happening again, we want to ensure that we are preparing for a new paradigm in which relatively cheap drones can quickly and effectively wipe out core military and government infrastructure.” 

    “While American threat projection globally is strong among all the branches of the military, we need to be prepared for a new paradigm of covert, but potentially disastrous, threats to our core military interests, including our nuclear triad in the homeland.”

    Other signers of the letter include U.S. Reps. Mike Carey (OH-15), Brian Babin (TX-36), Troy Balderson (OH-12), Aaron Bean (FL-04), Nicholas Begich (AK-AL), Sheri Biggs (SC-03), Ben Cline (VA-06), Michael Cloud (TX-27), Troy Downing (MT-02), Brad Finstad (MN-01), Mike Flood (NE-01), Harriet Hageman (WY-AL), Clay Higgins (LA-03), French Hill (AK.-02), Jim Jordan (OH-04), Dave Joyce (OH-14), Bob Latta (OH-05), John McGuire (VA-05), Max Miller (OH-07), Chip Roy (TX-21), Michael Rulli (OH-06), Adrian Smith (NE-03), Greg Steube (FL-17), and Beth Van Duyne (TX-24).

    In addition to this letter, Rep. Pfluger also introduced the COUNTER Act earlier this year to unleash the military on enemy drones in the U.S. 

    See the full letter HERE or read the full text below. 

    Dear Secretary Hegseth and Secretary Noem:

    We write to inquire with the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) about the current state of drone attack countermeasures for our military installations, government buildings, embassies, and consulates, both domestic and abroad. 

    The ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East have demonstrated that large-scale, highly coordinated mass-drone attacks can be highly effective if the defender lacks adequate counter-drone defenses. 

    Since the beginning of the Russo-Ukraine war, drones have played a decisive role in deterring Russian armored and infantry assaults. With the relatively cheap cost to produce, maintain, and operate these systems, Ukraine can field drones to strike targets deep in occupied territories and Russian soil. The Russian Federation quickly adopted drone weaponry and surveillance equipment in response. 

    Drone technology has spread to other conflicts, including Israel’s confrontations with Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis. On multiple occasions, Iran had used a tiered attack against Israel using drones alongside ballistic, hypersonic, and cruise missiles.

    Ukraine’s Operation Spider’s Web and Israel’s Operation Rising Lion have demonstrated thedevastating threat of a large-scale drone attack upon military installations and critical infrastructure far beyond one’s own borders. These operations are complemented by deep infiltration operations among each country’s respective intelligence services. Not only that, but the cost asymmetry to produce and operate drones against the damage they can cause is incredibly valuable for this guerrilla tactic.

    With the former administration’s open border policies and most drones being purchased from DJI, a Chinese Communist Party drone company, it is becoming increasingly likely that we could see a similar attack upon our country that could threaten our service members and cripple our lethality if we are not prepared. 

    Since 9/11, our nation has not suffered a major coordinated attack on our own soil. While thegovernment has done good work in preventing an attack like 9/11 from happening again, we want to ensure that we are preparing for a new paradigm in which relatively cheap drones can quickly and effectively wipe out core military and government infrastructure.

    While American threat projection globally is strong among all the branches of the military, we need to be prepared for a new paradigm of covert, but potentially disastrous, threats to our core military interests, including our nuclear triad in the homeland.

    Following the successful U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities at Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan, it is imperative that we ensure the readiness and security of our military bases, critical infrastructure, and overseas diplomatic installations. A potential Iranian response could involve direct attacks here at home or abroad. We must take all necessary measures to safeguard our service members and defend our interests at this time.

    Any information you can provide in response to the following questions would be helpful:

    • What is the status of American countermeasures to deter and counter mass drone attacks against military installations, government facilities (including Washington D.C.), and critical infrastructure like roads, bridges, and manufacturing sites?
    • If defenses are currently inadequate to deter or repel drone attacks similar to those referenced above, what steps are being taken to address them, and what is the timeline for implementation?
    • Is the DOD or DHS aware of or actively working to deter potential threats posed by foreign-owned land near critical military and infrastructure sites in the United States that could be a launching point for a mass drone attack like we saw in Russia by Ukrainian forces?
    • Is there a concern of any sort of weaponized drone buildup already happening in theUnited States from drones that may have been smuggled in due to the former administration’s open border policies?
    • Will counter-drone technology be considered for President Trump’s Golden Dome air defense project?

    Thank you for your attention to this matter.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pfluger, Colleagues Sound the Alarm on Urgent Need for U.S. Drone Defenses

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

    WASHINGTON, DC — As first reported in Fox News, Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) joined 24 of his colleagues in a letter to U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem inquiring about the status of defense measures for U.S. military installations, government buildings, and critical infrastructure from the threat of drones. This letter follows a growing number of drone attacks launched by Israel and Ukraine to penetrate deep into Iranian and Russian territory, respectively. 

    In part, the members wrote, “Since 9/11, our nation has not suffered a major coordinated attack on our own soil. While the government has done good work in preventing an attack like 9/11 from happening again, we want to ensure that we are preparing for a new paradigm in which relatively cheap drones can quickly and effectively wipe out core military and government infrastructure.” 

    “While American threat projection globally is strong among all the branches of the military, we need to be prepared for a new paradigm of covert, but potentially disastrous, threats to our core military interests, including our nuclear triad in the homeland.”

    Other signers of the letter include U.S. Reps. Mike Carey (OH-15), Brian Babin (TX-36), Troy Balderson (OH-12), Aaron Bean (FL-04), Nicholas Begich (AK-AL), Sheri Biggs (SC-03), Ben Cline (VA-06), Michael Cloud (TX-27), Troy Downing (MT-02), Brad Finstad (MN-01), Mike Flood (NE-01), Harriet Hageman (WY-AL), Clay Higgins (LA-03), French Hill (AK.-02), Jim Jordan (OH-04), Dave Joyce (OH-14), Bob Latta (OH-05), John McGuire (VA-05), Max Miller (OH-07), Chip Roy (TX-21), Michael Rulli (OH-06), Adrian Smith (NE-03), Greg Steube (FL-17), and Beth Van Duyne (TX-24).

    In addition to this letter, Rep. Pfluger also introduced the COUNTER Act earlier this year to unleash the military on enemy drones in the U.S. 

    See the full letter HERE or read the full text below. 

    Dear Secretary Hegseth and Secretary Noem:

    We write to inquire with the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) about the current state of drone attack countermeasures for our military installations, government buildings, embassies, and consulates, both domestic and abroad. 

    The ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East have demonstrated that large-scale, highly coordinated mass-drone attacks can be highly effective if the defender lacks adequate counter-drone defenses. 

    Since the beginning of the Russo-Ukraine war, drones have played a decisive role in deterring Russian armored and infantry assaults. With the relatively cheap cost to produce, maintain, and operate these systems, Ukraine can field drones to strike targets deep in occupied territories and Russian soil. The Russian Federation quickly adopted drone weaponry and surveillance equipment in response. 

    Drone technology has spread to other conflicts, including Israel’s confrontations with Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis. On multiple occasions, Iran had used a tiered attack against Israel using drones alongside ballistic, hypersonic, and cruise missiles.

    Ukraine’s Operation Spider’s Web and Israel’s Operation Rising Lion have demonstrated thedevastating threat of a large-scale drone attack upon military installations and critical infrastructure far beyond one’s own borders. These operations are complemented by deep infiltration operations among each country’s respective intelligence services. Not only that, but the cost asymmetry to produce and operate drones against the damage they can cause is incredibly valuable for this guerrilla tactic.

    With the former administration’s open border policies and most drones being purchased from DJI, a Chinese Communist Party drone company, it is becoming increasingly likely that we could see a similar attack upon our country that could threaten our service members and cripple our lethality if we are not prepared. 

    Since 9/11, our nation has not suffered a major coordinated attack on our own soil. While thegovernment has done good work in preventing an attack like 9/11 from happening again, we want to ensure that we are preparing for a new paradigm in which relatively cheap drones can quickly and effectively wipe out core military and government infrastructure.

    While American threat projection globally is strong among all the branches of the military, we need to be prepared for a new paradigm of covert, but potentially disastrous, threats to our core military interests, including our nuclear triad in the homeland.

    Following the successful U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities at Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan, it is imperative that we ensure the readiness and security of our military bases, critical infrastructure, and overseas diplomatic installations. A potential Iranian response could involve direct attacks here at home or abroad. We must take all necessary measures to safeguard our service members and defend our interests at this time.

    Any information you can provide in response to the following questions would be helpful:

    • What is the status of American countermeasures to deter and counter mass drone attacks against military installations, government facilities (including Washington D.C.), and critical infrastructure like roads, bridges, and manufacturing sites?
    • If defenses are currently inadequate to deter or repel drone attacks similar to those referenced above, what steps are being taken to address them, and what is the timeline for implementation?
    • Is the DOD or DHS aware of or actively working to deter potential threats posed by foreign-owned land near critical military and infrastructure sites in the United States that could be a launching point for a mass drone attack like we saw in Russia by Ukrainian forces?
    • Is there a concern of any sort of weaponized drone buildup already happening in theUnited States from drones that may have been smuggled in due to the former administration’s open border policies?
    • Will counter-drone technology be considered for President Trump’s Golden Dome air defense project?

    Thank you for your attention to this matter.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Culbokie ELC rated very good in latest Care Inspectorate Inspection report

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    The Highland Council welcomes the positive Care Inspectorate Inspection report following a recent unannounced inspection visit to Culbokie Primary School Nursery, Dingwall.

    Following the inspection, Culbokie Primary School Nursery received the following:

    • How good is our care, play and learning? – 5 Very Good
    • How good is our setting? –  5 Very Good
    • How good is our leadership? – 5 Very Good
    • How good is our staff team – 5 Very Good

    Education Committee Chair, Cllr John Finlayson said: “The recent unannounced inspection at Culbokie Primary School Nursery from the Care Inspectorate received an outstanding report, reflecting the professionalism, dedication and commitment of the caring staff at the setting to create an inclusive, safe and nurturing ethos for all pupils attending.

    “The report found significant strengths in aspects of the care provided and how these supported positive outcomes for children, the child centred approach by all staff, with supportive and highly skilled leadership and robust quality assurance processes that enable Culbokie Nursery to deliver high quality care and support tailored to meet children’s and families’ needs.

    “I’d like to congratulate the staff at Culbokie Primary School Nursery for their continued dedication and ‘full marks’ inspection report.”

    Key messages from the report:

    Staff were warm, caring and nurturing in their approaches to support children. As a result, children felt confident and secure.

    • Staff use skilled interactions to support children’s developing early literacy, language and numeracy skills.
    • The nursery was warm and welcoming, and furnished to a high standard which gave children a strong message that they mattered.
    • Robust quality assurance processes allowed focussed and meaningful opportunities for the manager and staff to review and monitor various aspects of the service.
    • The staff team had high aspirations for all children, and this was evident in the care and support they received, in both nursery and breakfast club settings.

    3 Jul 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –