NewzIntel.com

Category: Europe

  • Prime Minister Modi departs for New Delhi after completing successful three-nation tour

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Thursday, emplaned for New Delhi after completing a successful visit to Croatia, the last leg of the three nation tour, marking a significant milestone in the bilateral ties between the two countries.

    The Prime Minister’s first stop was Cyprus, followed by Canada, where he attended the G7 Summit, and then Croatia, making it the first visit by an Indian PM to the European nation.

    During his visit, PM Modi was warmly welcomed by the people and government of Croatia. He expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome and highlighted the visit’s significance in ushering in a new chapter in the shared journey of friendship and extensive cooperation between India and Croatia.

    “Grateful to the people and Government of Croatia for the warm welcome during what has been a truly landmark visit. This visit ushers in a new chapter in our shared journey of friendship and extensive cooperation,” PM Modi posted on X.

    He noted that the visit marked an important milestone in bilateral relations, with many significant decisions made to strengthen India-Croatia ties.

    His remarks came after a day of high-level engagements, including talks with his Croatian counterpart Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic and a ceremonial welcome in the capital city of Zagreb, which he shared highlights of on Wednesday.

    Taking to social media platform X, PM Modi posted a series of updates on his engagements during the visit. He wrote, “Grateful to my friend, Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic for the special gesture of showing me the city centre of the historical and culturally rich city of Zagreb.”

    He also shared glimpses of the ceremonial reception accorded to him in Zagreb, saying, “Pictures from the ceremonial welcome in Zagreb, Croatia.”

    Following his meeting with the Croatian Prime Minister, PM Modi posted, “Held productive talks with my friend, Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic in Zagreb. Our talks covered many sectors, aimed at making the India-Croatia bond even stronger. We will be working closely in the fields of defence and security, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, IT, renewable energy, technology and more. Synergies in areas like semiconductors, shipbuilding, connectivity and more will also be greatly beneficial.”

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday that India and Croatia will promote cooperation in several areas including pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and information technology.

    He added that a Defence Cooperation Plan will also be formulated for long-term collaboration in the defence sector. In a joint press statement with Croatia PM Andrej Plenkovic after their delegation-level talks, PM Modi said the two countries have emphasised joint research and collaboration between their academic institutions and India will share its space experience with Croatia.

    PM Modi reached Croatia earlier in the day in the last leg of his three-nation visit. He expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Croatian Prime Minister and the Croatian government for the enthusiasm, warmth and affection with which he has been welcomed.

    “This is the first visit of any Indian Prime Minister to Croatia, and I have had the good fortune of it. India and Croatia are connected by common values like democracy, rule of law, pluralism and quality. It is a happy coincidence that last year the people of India have given me and the people of Croatia have given the opportunity to Croatian Prime Minister, Andrej Plenkovic, to serve for the third consecutive time,” he said. The Prime Minister was earlier accorded ceremonial welcome on his arrival in Croatia. (IANS)

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A young couple from NSU became finalists of the All-Russian competition “Student Families of Russia”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    The All-Russian competition “Student Families of Russia” was organized by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of Russia together with the Tambov State University named after G.R. Derzhavin and Gzhel State University as part of the implementation of the federal project “Family Support” of the national project “Family”. Young families in which both spouses aged 18 to 35 are officially married and are university students could take part in it. In the selection stage, the couple needs to record a video business card, pass a psychological test and submit a portfolio of achievements. As a result, 30 couples made it to the finals, who will go to Gzhel to represent their universities.

    NSU will be represented in the final by a married couple, Vyacheslav and Maria Kolobenko. Maria is graduating this year. Faculty of Natural Sciences, and Vyacheslav – Mechanics and Mathematics. The couple met in 2023 at Miss NSU. Vyacheslav was the organizer, and Maria was a participant. After the competition, the guys began to actively communicate.

    – We got to talking and were surprised to learn that we were both from Primorsky Krai. I am from Ussuriysk, and Masha is from Arsenyev, that is, only 100 kilometers from each other. We started dating on February 14 last year, and in May I realized that “well, that’s it, mine!” We went to Primorsky Krai and met our parents. Later, at the end of 2024, I proposed to Masha, and in April of this year we got married.

    The university invited us to participate in the competition, and we were not against it. We applied and passed. It’s cool that there is such an opportunity to go somewhere together, compete, spend time together, and even usefully, – said Vyacheslav Kolobenko.

    In July, the young couple will go to Gzhel. The final program includes thematic areas, master classes, round tables, discussions and research in focus groups on strengthening and popularizing family values, as well as meetings with government officials on issues of supporting young families.

    We wish victory to Vyacheslav and Maria!

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Russian investment fund to cooperate with Chinese digital trade platform

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

    The Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) and Qifa, a Chinese-founded B2B digital trade platform operating across the Russia-China corridor, inked a strategic partnership on Wednesday at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) to advance cross-border digital trade and expand bilateral commerce.

    The collaboration agreement, signed on the sidelines of the forum, underscores joint efforts to modernize trade processes through technological integration. “RDIF and Qifa, a Russia-China B2B digital trade platform, have agreed to partner in developing digital trade and scaling bilateral trade volumes,” the fund stated in a press release.

    According to RDIF, the initiative will harness AI-driven solutions to streamline trade workflows, enhancing transparency and operational efficiency for businesses. This, in turn, is expected to drive product assortment expansion and cost optimization — key levers for accelerating trade growth in line with bilateral strategic objectives.

    “China leads in trade volume with Russia, with a robust e-commerce ecosystem already in place. RDIF’s focus on facilitating market access for Sino-Russian enterprises makes this partnership with Qifa an important step in elevating cross-border digital trade,” said Kirill Dmitriev, CEO of RDIF, in a statement.

    The 28th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum runs from June 18 to 21 this year, gathering delegates from over 100 countries and regions. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Boca’s Herrera, Figal handed four-game bans

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

    Boca Juniors pair Ander Herrera and Nicolas Figal were suspended for four matches each after receiving red cards in the Argentine club’s FIFA Club World Cup opener against Benfica.

    Angel Di Maria (front) of SL Benfica takes a penalty kick during the group C match between CA Boca Juniors of Argentina and SL Benfica of Portugal at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 at the Hard Rock Stadium, Miami, the United States, June 16, 2025. (Xinhua/Huang Zongzhi)

    Boca said it would appeal the decisions, arguing that the punishments are disproportionate after Benfica’s Andrea Belotti received a two-match ban for a head-high challenge on Ayrton Costa during Monday’s 2-2 draw in Miami.

    “We have already contacted FIFA to submit an appeal,” a Boca spokesperson was quoted as saying in the Argentine press on Wednesday.

    Herrera was sent off from the bench in the 45th minute after remonstrating with Mexican referee Cesar Ramos over a penalty decision against the Buenos Aires outfit.

    Figal was dismissed for a studs-up challenge on Florentino Luis two minutes from time.

    Boca’s next match in Group C will be against Bayern Munich at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium on Friday.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: 60 million yuan allocated for flood recovery in Guangdong province

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, June 19 (Xinhua) — China’s National Development and Reform Commission on Wednesday said it has allocated 60 million yuan (about 8.36 million U.S. dollars) from the country’s central budget to support south China’s Guangdong Province in flood relief.

    The funds will be used to restore infrastructure and public service facilities in affected areas of Guangdong Province.

    Severe floods have hit Guangdong Province recently, with the area around Zhaoqing City suffering the worst damage. According to official data, as of midday on Wednesday, June 18, 300,000 residents of Huaiji County, which is under Zhaoqing City, were affected by the disaster, with 70,000 people evacuated to safe areas. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Russia ready to hand over 3,000 more bodies of Ukrainian soldiers: Putin

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

    Russia is prepared to hand over the bodies of an additional 3,000 fallen Ukrainian soldiers, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Thursday.

    “We have returned the bodies of 6,000 fallen Ukrainian soldiers. We are ready to hand over approximately 3,000 more,” he said during a meeting with the heads of leading international news agencies in St. Petersburg.

    “These are, I repeat, sad and tragic figures,” Putin said. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Scott, Colleagues Lead Effort to Strengthen Review of Foreign Land Purchases Near Sensitive U.S. Military Sites

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Tim Scott

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Chairman of the Senate Banking Committee, is leading an effort to strengthen national security by ensuring the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) can effectively review foreign land purchases near sensitive military, intelligence, and national laboratory sites.

    The Protect Our Bases Act, which Senator Scott introduced along with Sens. Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), John Kennedy (R-La.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Jim Banks (R-Ind.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio), and Dave McCormick (R-Pa.), requires CFIUS member agencies to annually update records of the military, intelligence, and national laboratory facilities that should be designated as sensitive sites for national security purposes.   

    “The Chinese Communist Party’s efforts to infiltrate and surveil all parts of the U.S national security apparatus requires vigilance from our national security agencies. This legislation will enhance the review of foreign real estate transactions near critical national security installations, helping ensure CFIUS has the information it needs to protect our homeland and keep our nation safe,” said Senator Scott.

    “We must protect sensitive military and government sites from foreign adversaries pursuing intelligence activities on our own land,” said Senator Crapo. “Idaho has multiple military installations and the acclaimed Idaho National laboratory conducting vital research, development and training of critical national security efforts right here in our back yard, and increasing accountability about land sales around these sites is of utmost importance.”

    “We must address the growing threat from the Chinese Communist Party and other hostile regimes trying to get close to our most sensitive military and intelligence sites,” said Senator Tillis. “The Protect Our Bases Act ensures the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States has the most up-to-date information on key U.S. national security locations so dangerous land purchases can be blocked well before they become security risks.”

    “Ensuring the safety and security of our military and government installations is a national priority,” said Senator Hagerty. “For too long, foreign adversaries have tried to exploit America’s open real estate market and rule of law in an attempt to gain strategic footholds. The Protect Our Bases Act gives our nation the tools to identify who is buying land near sensitive sites and stop transactions that could put the security of Americans at risk.”

    “As threats from our foreign adversaries, including the Chinese Communist Party, Iran, and Russia, continue to escalate, it’s paramount that we secure our intelligence,” said Senator Britt. “Allowing CFIUS to review foreign land purchases near sensitive military and government sites is just common sense. Proud to join this legislation that takes a crucial step toward strengthening our national security and safeguarding our strategic advantages.”

    “There’s no reason why America’s adversaries should be able to buy land next to our military bases,” said Senator Ricketts. “Farmland adjacent to sensitive sites should remain in the hands of American farmers and ranchers, not Communist China. This commonsense bill will help to protect our troops, prevent espionage, and counter our adversaries.”

    “It’s become all too apparent in recent years that our nation faces a threat from land purchases by foreign adversaries. Allowing the Chinese Communist Party to purchase land near our military bases and government sites poses a severe risk to our national security,” said Senator Moreno. “ We need to strengthen CFIUS to review these purchases near sensitive national security installations to protect our nation’s security from being compromised by the CCP and other enemies.”

    “The security of our nation’s military operations and intelligence cannot be taken lightly,” said Senator McCormick. “Conducting rigorous oversight of foreign real estate transactions near our bases is essential to upholding our national security. This legislation is a much-needed step toward combatting China’s malign influence.”

    BACKGROUND:

    In 2022, Fufeng Group, a Chinese company with ties to the Chinese Communist Party, announced it would purchase land near Grand Forks Air Force Base in North Dakota. The Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) determined that it could not evaluate the transaction for national security risks because the Department of Defense had not listed the base as a sensitive site for national security purposes. Although the City of Grand Forks ultimately blocked the transaction, the incident demonstrated a significant flaw in the review process of foreign land purchases. CFIUS relies on its member agencies to provide updated information on sensitive military, intelligence, and national laboratory sites in order to properly assess the security risk of foreign investment in our country. If CFIUS member agencies do not appropriately update their site lists, CFIUS cannot ensure an accurate review.

    In addition to requiring agencies represented on CFIUS to provide updated records of the military, intelligence, and national laboratory facilities that should be sensitive sites on an annual basis, the Protect Our Bases Act makes these records easier for CFIUS to use for national security reviews and requires CFIUS to submit an annual report to Congress certifying the completion of such reviews and the accuracy of its real estate listings.

    For bill text, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Russia is becoming a notable partner of China in the economy – Russian President V. Putin

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    St. Petersburg, June 19 /Xinhua/ — Russia is becoming a significant economic partner of China, Russian President Vladimir Putin said in response to a question from Xinhua News Agency Director General Fu Hua during a meeting with heads of international news agencies on the sidelines of the 28th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, which is being held in St. Petersburg from June 18 to 21.

    “Russia is becoming a very visible partner for the People’s Republic of China in the economic sphere,” he noted.

    According to V. Putin, the volume of bilateral trade turnover of 240 billion US dollars is decent. In addition, Russia and China have planned investment projects worth 200 billion dollars. “And they are all realistic, they will all be implemented, I have no doubts,” he said.

    At the same time, the Russian President emphasized that the expansion of Russia’s economic cooperation with China is not connected with “some kind of turn” toward Asia. According to him, this is a natural direction of cooperation, and relations with China were not built yesterday. “This is not a matter of opportunism. All this is happening to a large extent, I must say frankly, due to the growth in the volume and quality of the Chinese economy, and, I hope, the growth in the volume and quality of the Russian economy,” the Russian leader added.

    Speaking about the priorities of bilateral cooperation, V. Putin named the financial sphere. “We need to ensure, of course, reliable financial flows that ensure growing volumes of trade turnover,” he said.

    The Russian President also spoke about the need to focus more on high-tech areas: the construction of heavy helicopters, space, and aircraft manufacturing. He praised China’s achievements in information technology. “I was surprised and pleased when the Chinese achieved simply demonstratively outstanding results in the development of artificial intelligence. It turned out to be 10 times cheaper than our competitors, and 10 times more effective – this is the result that our Chinese friends have achieved,” he noted.

    As V. Putin emphasized, military-technical cooperation is developing between Russia and China, which, according to him, is extremely important in order to “guarantee stability in world affairs.” “We have a whole plan for cooperation in this area, and the Ministry of Defense has its own plans for interaction. We regularly conduct exercises and will conduct them this year,” the president said.

    The Russian leader also declared his readiness to exchange military technologies with China. “We know about the wishes of our Chinese friends. This is not just about buying and selling, but about exchanging technologies. We are ready for this and will work in all directions,” he concluded. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Russia is ready to continue negotiations on settlement in Ukraine – Russian President V. Putin

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    St. Petersburg, June 19 (Xinhua) — Russia wants the conflict in Ukraine to end as soon as possible and is ready to continue settlement talks that began in Istanbul in 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin said during a meeting with heads of international news agencies on the sidelines of the 28th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, which is being held in St. Petersburg from June 18 to 21.

    “In 2022, it seems strange, but we agreed on everything with them. Do you understand? The draft agreement was prepared. It touched on denazification issues, and territorial issues. We found formulations that generally suited both us and Ukraine. No, then those who want to increase defense spending now came: in Europe and overseas. They said – no need. We need to defeat Russia on the battlefield. Everything we agreed on was thrown in the trash. And that’s it. And we began to achieve this wonderful goal,” V. Putin said.

    “And now the situation is: no, you know, let’s negotiate. Let’s do it. But let’s open these packages and negotiate. But we can’t sit there day and night for a whole year. Therefore, we are ready to continue these negotiations,” the Russian president noted.

    According to him, it is necessary not only to end the Ukrainian conflict in its current form, but to find a solution for the long-term historical perspective.

    “We need to find a solution that would not only put an end to today’s conflict, but would create conditions for the non-recurrence of such situations over a long historical period,” the Russian leader emphasized. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Wicker Leads SASC Hearing on the FY26 Defense Budget with Senior Pentagon Leadership

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Mississippi Roger Wicker

    Watch Video Here

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today led a hearing to receive testimony from the Pentagon’s senior leaders on the department’s fiscal year 2026 budget.

     

    In his opening remarks, Chairman Wicker praised President Trump’s “peace through strength” leadership and Secretary Hegseth’s achievements in implementing that agenda at the Pentagon. The chairman also noted that maintaining the national defense budget at $893 billion, even with an additive $150 billion from defense reconciliation, would result in United States military spending falling far below 3 percent of GDP by 2029.

     

    Read Chairman Wicker’s hearing opening statement as delivered.

     

    The committee convenes this morning to hear testimony concerning the president’s fiscal year 2026 budget request. I welcome Secretary Hegseth, Chairman Caine, and Acting Comptroller MacDonnell.

     

    As we review the past five months, the president and the Department of Defense have much to be proud of. The administration has largely succeeded in refocusing the Pentagon on warfighting.  Our recruitment numbers have dramatically improved.  That is a very important achievement and one we will continue to celebrate.

     

    The U.S. military has played a significant supporting role in the president’s wholesale success at our southern border.  He has achieved operational control over the situation – a position the vast majority of Americans support.

     

    In Operation Rough Rider, the president imposed costs on the Houthis.  The operation was well executed by our service members, and it appears to have achieved its stated objectives for now.  Similarly, the president has relentlessly struck al-Qaeda and ISIS terrorists.  Those strikes have helped to open up space for diplomatic breakthroughs in Syria, and they have prevented significant external attacks that could have emanated from Somalia.

     

    Unfortunately, the Axis of Aggressors is resilient.  It is hell-bent on challenging American global leadership.

     

    It is clearer than ever that Vladimir Putin is uninterested in President Trump’s and President Zelenskyy’s offers for real peace negotiations.  The Europeans are heeding the president’s call to re-arm, but we are in a tenuous period: A precipitate withdrawal of U.S. forces from Europe could undo all that progress.

     

    In Asia, the Chinese Communist Party continues its campaign of aggression against its neighbors and still displays open ambitions to retake Taiwan.  Secretary Hegseth recently made this crucial point in an important speech in Shangri-La. He said, “China seeks to become a hegemonic power in Asia.”  He is right.  China intends to use military force to achieve Xi Jinping’s goals.

     

    Meanwhile, in the Middle East, the Ayatollah is hiding as his regime crumbles.  He still refusing to negotiate.

     

    In short, this is the most dangerous national security moment since World War II.  Unconstrained, aggressive dictators are on the move.  And, importantly, the character of warfare is rapidly changing.  That is a dangerous combination. We cannot have an American-led Golden Age of peace and prosperity if we fail to navigate these historic security challenges.

     

    President Trump is actively working to protect American interests against four main adversaries: Xi Jinping and his Chinese Communist Party, Vladimir Putin’s militarized Russia, Kim Jong Un’s North Korea, and the Ayatollah’s religious fanatics, including his web of terrorists. Our commander-in-chief deserves a military capable of maintaining deterrence and applying force when necessary to protect U.S. interests – as he has done in Yemen.  I regret to say that this fiscal year 2026 budget request will not deliver that military.

     

    When Secretary Hegseth testified before this committee in his confirmation hearing, he made the correct point that spending less than 3 percent of GDP on defense would be, and I quote, “very dangerous.” What we have in front of us is an inadequate budget request with precious little detail and no follow-on data about fiscal years 2027, 2028, or 2029. We must assume – and, in fact, we have heard – that OMB intends to maintain defense spending at $893 billion across the four years of this administration.  Even with a one-time $150 billion reconciliation infusion, this would leave us at 2.65 percent of GDP by 2029 – below the 3% of GDP, and well below the 5% of GDP that we really really need. Clearly, such a budget plan would allow the military balance to continue – as it has been, to tilt away from the United States and toward Communist China. Communist China has increased its budget by over 7% each year for the past decade.

     

    I know the secretary fought for a stronger fiscal year 2026 discretionary request, but we need to acknowledge that a flat fiscal year 2026 budget is what OMB delivered.  I expect we will spend today reviewing the numerous significant holes in this request – gaps that will make it much more difficult for President Trump to equip our service members and for his advisors to develop credible military options.

     

    Across the budget, we see significant holes: shipbuilding, tactical fighters, basic maintenance money, and more – all insufficient.  The budget seems to be written as if there are many items in the reconciliation package that simply are not in that bill.  This is confusing, because the text of the reconciliation bill has been public for quite some time. Chairman Rogers, of the House, and I worked closely with the executive branch on the contents of the package.  This budget threatens to undermine the good work we have done together on that bill, and it leads me to question whether some officials in the administration plan to ignore congressional intent.

     

    I believe ignoring congressional intent would be a wrong-headed decision for the United States of America. We all work for the American people and share largely identical goals when it comes to deterring Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin, and other threats.  We need to work much more closely together on investment strategies and actions necessary to rebuild our industrial base.  The president and the Congress want action on reindustrialization.  We want to rebuild the Arsenal of Democracy.  We need action on industrial base integration, streamlined weapons sales, and cooperation with our allies and partners.  We agree on fundamentally changing the way the DOD budgets and handles acquisition.  Now, we need to agree on providing the men and women of the Department of Defense with the resources they need to do their jobs. We have no time to waste, and we must commit to continued collaboration now.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warnock, Marshall, Gallego Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Promote Fatherhood Engagement, Improve Maternal Health Outcomes 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    Warnock, Marshall, Gallego Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Promote Fatherhood Engagement, Improve Maternal Health Outcomes 

    The Dads Matter Act of 2025 aims to improve maternal health outcomes through promoting fatherhood engagement
    Senator Reverend Warnock has worked to combat maternal mortality, promote healthy families
    Georgia has one of the highest rates of maternal deaths in the country
    Senator Reverend Warnock: “Georgia’s maternal mortality rate is a crisis that we must address with every tool at our disposal. That includes redoubling our efforts to uplift the role of fathers in keeping their family healthy during pregnancy and early childhood”
    Senator Marshall: “Fathers play such a critical role in their households, and I am proud to support legislation that champions their role as providers, spouses, and caregivers”

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Roger Marshall (R-KS), and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) introduced bipartisan legislation to improve maternal health outcomes by promoting fatherhood engagement. The Dads Matter Act of 2025 would direct the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to raise awareness about father inclusion and engagement through a public awareness campaign and to provide state-level guidance aimed at strengthening the role of fathers in supporting healthy mothers and babies. Last Congress, Senator Warnock introduced a resolution to uplift fathers and their role in maternal health. TheDads Matter Act, co-led by Senator Marshall, builds on the resolution that passed the Senate and would direct HHS to raise awareness about father inclusion and engagement through a public awareness campaign and guidance to states. 

    “Georgia’s maternal mortality rate is a crisis that we must address with every tool at our disposal. That includes redoubling our efforts to uplift the role of fathers in keeping their family healthy during pregnancy and early childhood,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “Now is the time to spread awareness about the critical role of fathers in improving maternal health outcomes and creating thriving families and communities.” 

    “As an OBGYN for more than 25 years, I know firsthand the challenges facing mothers, and how important a stable support system can be to both pediatric and maternal health outcomes,” said Senator Marshall. “Fathers play such a critical role in their households, and I am proud to support legislation that champions their role as providers, spouses, and caregivers.”

    “Too many women in Arizona die from pregnancy-related causes. This bill helps reverse this trend by recognizing that engaged fathers are part of the solution. When dads show up, maternal health outcomes are better, babies are healthier, and families are stronger,” said Senator Gallego.

    The Dads Matter Act of 2025 would: 

    • Direct HHS to carry out a public awareness campaign to increase awareness of the importance of father inclusion and engagement in improving overall health outcomes during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. 
    • Direct HHS to issue guidance to states to encourage and incentivize maternity care providers to provide training and education to health care professionals about the benefits of including and engaging fathers in the pregnancy, birth, and postpartum process. 
    • Direct the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to submit a report to Congress that describes the results and effectiveness of this legislation. 

    Organizations supporting the legislation include March of Dimes, the National Fatherhood Initiative, the What to Expect Project, and 4Kira4Moms. 

    “National Fatherhood Initiative® applauds Senators Warnock and Marshall for reintroducing bipartisan legislation that has the potential for long-term impact on our nation’s well-being. This bill leverages a golden moment by focusing on increasing father engagement during the perinatal period when parents are most highly motivated for the father’s involvement in his child’s life,” said Christopher A. Brown, president, National Fatherhood Initiative®. “Research shows that maternal and child health outcomes are enhanced when the father becomes engaged during and after the child’s birth. It also increases the chance that the father stays involved for the long haul. There’s no more cost-effective time to invest in the well-being of whole families.”

    “The science and research are clear: Not only are fathers biologically hard wired to be nurturers, but they’re the best and most effective champions of maternal and infant health. When dads are involved in pregnancy, postpartum and infant care, the risks from nearly all preventable and treatable complications – from preeclampsia to preterm birth to perinatal mood and anxiety disorders to sudden infant death are reduced. Breastfeeding rates soar, as does a baby’s development, future mental and behavioral health, success in school, and so much more. Yet for too long, we’ve sidelined fathers – in some communities, even seen them as part of the problem, not the solution they are. Excluded them from the conversation about our current maternal health crisis and from legislation intended to reverse it. That’s why the What to Expect Project and I are proud to support the Dads Matter Act, the first bill to address the measurable impact fathers have on maternal and infant health, safety, and wellbeing – and to improve awareness among health care providers and communities about the need to involve them. Because dads do matter. We’re grateful for the passionate leadership and tireless efforts and commitment from Senator Warnock, Senator Marshall, and Senator Gallego on behalf of all moms and dads,” said Heidi Murkoff, author of What to Expect When You’re Expecting and Founder of the What to Expect Project

    “We’re incredibly grateful to Senator Warnock, Senator Marshall, and Senator Gallego for their leadership on the Dads Matter Act. This critical legislation highlights the power of bipartisan collaboration in improving maternal health outcomes for all families. We believe that by empowering fathers, we can not only make our country safer for mothers and babies, but we can also strengthen our families,” said Charles Johnson, Founder & Board President, 4Kira4Moms

    “The Dads Matter Actis an important piece of federal maternal health legislation that brings awareness to the fact that maternal health is a fundamental human right not just a woman’s right. The Dads Matter Act will help enable education and training of fathers to be in service of mothers during their pregnancy journeys as a family! We are excited to help see this piece of legislation pass,” said Gabrielle Albert, Executive Director & Board Vice President & Secretary, 4Kira4Moms

    Senator Warnock has long championed legislation to combat maternal mortality and improve health outcomes for hardworking families. In 2022, Senator Warnock partnered with then-Senator Marco Rubio to pass the Maternal Health Quality Improvement Act, which provides federal funding to reduce maternal mortality and improve implicit bias training for providers to prevent maternal death. Senator Warnock also partnered with U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA) to introduce the Kira Johnson Act, legislation to provide funding to community-based organizations leading the charge to improve maternal health outcomes, particularly for Black women. Additionally, in 2023, Senator Warnock introduced a bipartisan bill with U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) to support efforts to collect and analyze maternal health data to prevent maternal deaths; the bipartisan Preventing Maternal Deaths Reauthorization Act would reauthorize programs to preserve maternal health throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum, and would address disparities in maternal health outcomes through data collection, analysis, and strategies for prevention. In 2023, Senator Warnock also traveled to North Georgia to hear from health care providers and Georgians at Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) Gainesville about the state’s maternal mortality crisis and why Congress must act to invest in better health care outcomes for women in Georgia and across the country. In 2024, Senator Warnock introduced a resolution designating January 23 as Maternal Health Awareness Day in order to raise public awareness about maternal health and promote initiatives to address and eliminate disparities in maternal health outcomes.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New scanner could improve brain tumour treatment Scientists at the University of Aberdeen and NHS Grampian have been awarded £350,000 of Scottish Government funding to investigate a new way to scan brain tumours.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    FCI scanner

    Scientists at the University of Aberdeen and NHS Grampian have been awarded £350,000 of Scottish Government funding to investigate a new way to scan brain tumours.
    Funded by a Chief Scientist Office Translational Clinical Studies grant, the team will use Aberdeen-designed, Field Cycling Imaging (FCI) to generate never-before seen images of glioblastoma brain tumours.
    Glioblastoma is the most common and aggressive type of brain tumour with over 3,000 new patients in the UK diagnosed each year. Half of all patients die within 15 months of diagnosis even after extensive surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
    Field cycling imaging (FCI) is a new and specialist type of low-field MRI scan pioneered in Aberdeen. The FCI scanner follows in the footsteps of the full body MRI scanner, also invented at the University around 50 years ago which has gone on to save millions of lives around the world. The FCI derives from MRI but can work at low and ultra-low magnetic fields which means it is capable of seeing how organs are affected by diseases in ways that were previously not possible.
    While similar to MRI, in that MRI uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of the inside of the body, the FCI scanner can vary the strength of the magnetic field during the patient’s scan. This means the FCI acts like multiple scanners in one and can extract more information about the tissues.
    A further benefit of this new technology is that it can detect tumours without having to inject dye into the body, known as contrast agents, which have been associated with kidney damage and allergic reactions in some patients.
    The Aberdeen scanner is the only one of its type used in patients anywhere in the world.
    The team of doctors and scientists involved in this project will scan glioblastoma patients undergoing chemotherapy after surgery and chemoradiotherapy.
    They hope to show that, unlike conventional MRI scans, FCI can tell the difference between tumour growth, known as progression, and ‘pseudo-progression’ which looks like tumour but is not cancerous tissue.

    Ultimately this study and related future work will improve quality, effectiveness and healthcare cost-effectiveness in the treatment of glioblastoma patients across Scotland and beyond.” Professor Anne Kiltie

    If they can distinguish pseudo-progression from true progression this could improve care and quality of life in future patients.
    Professor Anne Kiltie, Friends of ANCHOR Chair in Clinical Oncology at the University of Aberdeen, who is leading the study said: “We already have evidence that FCI is effective in detecting tumours in breast tissue and brain damage in patients following a stroke.
    “Applying this exciting new technology to glioblastoma patients could give us a much more accurate and detailed picture of what is going on in their brain. If we can detect true tumour progression early, we can swap the patient to a potentially more beneficial type of chemotherapy. Also, being able to verify that a patient has pseudo-progression will prevent effective chemotherapy being stopped too early, because it was thought that the tumour has progressed, thus worsening prognosis.
    “Providing certainty will also reduce anxiety for both patients and relatives and improve the quality of life of patients.
    “Importantly, having a reliable method to identify progressive disease will allow development and more precise evaluation of emerging potential treatments. This is of particular importance as patients currently have a limited choice of treatments for combatting their cancer.
    “Ultimately this study and related future work will improve quality, effectiveness and healthcare cost-effectiveness in the treatment of glioblastoma patients across Scotland and beyond.”
    Sarah-Jane Hogg, chief executive at Friends of ANCHOR, added: “This is a really promising development and another example of the pioneering work coming out of the University of Aberdeen.
    “Professor Kiltie’s role at the University is fully funded by Friends of ANCHOR through our Dream Big appeal, and our thanks go to our donors and fundraisers for the part they’ve played in supporting this work.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: BENIN: IMF Executive Board Completes Sixth Reviews of Extended Fund and Extended Credit Facilities, and Third Review of the Resilience and Sustainability Facility

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    June 18, 2025

    • The IMF Executive Board today completed the Sixth Reviews of Benin’s Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and the Extended Credit Facility (ECF) and the Third Review under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF). The decision allows for an immediate disbursement of about US$ 90 million.
    • Benin’s successful fiscal reforms supported the convergence to the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU) fiscal deficit norm of 3 percent of GDP one year ahead of schedule, with sustained domestic revenue mobilization and prioritized social spending. The 2025 budget is designed to sustain this achievement.
    • A key challenge ahead for Benin is to preserve the reform momentum and strengthen policies that foster inclusive growth and an economic transformation that benefits all Beninese.

    Washington, DC: The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has completed the Sixth Reviews under the 42-month blended Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and the Extended Credit Facility (ECF) arrangements, and the Third Review under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF) arrangement. The EFF/ECF was approved by the IMF Executive Board in July 2022 (see PR 22/252) and complemented by the RSF in December 2023 (see PR 23/452).

    The completion of the reviews allows for the immediate disbursement of about US$ 36 million (SDR 26.2 million) under the EFF/ECF—bringing total disbursements under the program to about US$ 623 million (SDR 457.6 million)—and of about US$ 54 million (SDR 39.616 million) under the RSF arrangement.

    Economic activity in Benin accelerated over the past five years, and markedly in 2024. Growth reached 7.5 percent year-over-year—its highest level yet— and it is expected to remain strong in the medium term. The current account of the balance of payments deteriorated temporarily, due to large professional services imports related to the Glo-Djigbé Industrial Zone (GDIZ). It is expected to recover gradually, as exports from the special economic zones increase and the services deficit continues to moderate over time. 

    Program performance under the EFF/ECF has been strong, with all end-December 2024 quantitative targets met and structural benchmarks completed. On the RSF front, the authorities adopted new regulations for water resources monitoring, construction, and renewable energy. They also revised electricity tariff regulations to improve the financial sustainability of electricity production and distribution companies. Benin’s partners have pledged financial support for the country’s climate agenda following COP29 and the 2024 climate finance roundtable. Accordingly, the authorities are working on a climate-related taxonomy that is aimed at further catalyzing climate finance.

    Following the Executive Board discussion on Benin, Mr. Okamura, Deputy Managing Director, and acting chair, issued the following statement:

    “Benin’s performance under its Fund-supported arrangements has been strong. Its strong institutional foundation and the authorities’ economic reform drive and sound macroeconomic management have yielded tangible dividends, with high and more stable growth, favorable access to international markets, and continued support from development partners. The authorities should nonetheless remain vigilant to regional and global risks, maintain fiscal discipline and reform momentum, and strengthen inclusive policies.

    “Frontloaded fiscal consolidation in 2024 supported Benin’s convergence to the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU) fiscal deficit norm of 3 percent of GDP, one year in advance. The 2025 budget continues to target compliance with the deficit norm, while the fiscal adjustment remains anchored in the Medium-Term Revenue Strategy. In that context, maintaining the tax collection efforts coupled with prudent spending will preserve fiscal discipline. Rebalancing the debt portfolio toward domestic debt over time while remaining cognizant of refinancing risks, in line with the authorities’ Medium-Term Debt Strategy, and together with continued proactive debt management, will help mitigate external rollover risks.

    “The authorities should continue laying the foundation for inclusive private sector-led growth to entrench the ongoing economic transformation. Fiscal transparency and good governance are key to maintaining market confidence. Further efforts are needed to support the development of SMEs. Regularly updating the social registry and developing a comprehensive mapping of social protection programs will improve the efficiency and targeting of social assistance initiatives toward vulnerable households across the country.

    “Continued vigilance by supervisory authorities vis-à-vis public and non-public financial sector risks will help safeguard financial stability and limit contingent liability risks.

    “The authorities have revised regulations for water resources monitoring, construction, electricity tariffs, and renewable energy in line with their climate agenda. The authorities should accelerate the reforms aimed at enhancing resilience to climate change and continue to advance their agenda under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF), to promote long-term balance of payments stability and catalyze private-led climate finance.”

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Kwabena Akuamoah-Boateng

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/06/18/pr-25207-benin-imf-executive-board-completes-6th-reviews-of-eff-and-ecf-and-3rd-review-of-the-rsf

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Russia sanctions target enablers of war, including Russia’s ‘shadow fleet’

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Foreign Minister Winston Peters has announced new sanctions on crucial enablers of Russia’s illegal war against Ukraine.

    This latest round of sanctions targets actors involved in Russia’s military-industrial complex, supporters from North Korea, Iran, and Belarus, as well as vessels that are part of Russia’s ‘shadow fleet’.

    “New Zealand must continue to hold Russia and its enablers accountable. Military support from actors in North Korea, Iran, and Belarus has helped Russia sustain its illegal war of aggression against Ukraine,” Mr Peters said.

    These new sanctions target a further 18 individuals and entities who have been assisting Russia’s war efforts.

    In addition, 27 ‘shadow fleet’ vessels have also been designated. Russia’s ‘shadow fleet’ enablers are involved in illegal activities to avoid sanctions, including through the transport of Russian oil at above the G7 Plus oil price cap, which New Zealand adopted last year.

    “The designation of Russia’s ‘shadow fleet’ reflects a joint effort with likeminded international partners to prevent sanctions evasion and to maintain the pressure on Russia in support of a just and lasting peace for Ukraine,” Mr Peters says.

    Since the Russia Sanctions Act entered into force in March 2022, New Zealand has imposed sanctions on more than 1,800 individuals, entities, and shipping vessels, along with a range of trade measures. 

    More information about sanctions, travel bans, and export controls against Russia, as well as diplomatic, military and economic support to Ukraine, can be found on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade website here

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Demanding Meaningful Stablecoin Guardrails, Reed Votes Against So-Called “GENIUS Act”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

    WASHINGTON, DC — Citing a lack of consumer and taxpayer protections and serious crypto corruption and national security concerns, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) voted against the so-called GENIUS Act (S.1582), which passed the U.S. Senate on a vote of 68-30.

    The controversial bill places a government stamp of approval on “stablecoins,” which are crypto dollars that could be minted by big retailers, big tech companies, foreign companies, and even President Trump’s family. In a similar way that banks allow customers to send and receive money, stablecoins claim to do the same in a faster and cheaper way.

    Exposing taxpayers, consumers, and the financial system to high levels of risk, the GENIUS Act says that stablecoin companies would not need to comply with dozens of the same consumer protection laws that apply to similar firms and that help prevent scams and fraud.

    This legislation repeats some of the same mistakes that led to the 2008 financial crisis, fostered by the mistaken belief that stablecoin issuers are simple and safe companies that are unlikely to get into trouble and do not need significant regulation to protect customer funds.

    Rather than provide meaningful protections for consumers, the legislation weakens existing state laws on cryptocurrency to make it possible for stablecoin companies to operate with near-zero capital, meaning that companies could be unable to weather a financial crisis.  This leaves U.S. taxpayers exposed to bailouts if crypto markets crash.

    Furthermore, the bill makes it possible for stablecoin companies to avoid getting an independent audit and makes it virtually impossible for the government to revoke a stablecoin company’s charter, even if the company engages in fraudulent activity. And if a stablecoin company goes bankrupt, consumers must get in line to get their money back and hope that they will make a full recovery.

    The bill coincides with the launch of the Trump family’s own stablecoin venture called “USD1,” which has already been used by a foreign government to funnel at least $2 billion to the President.  The bill actually includes an express provision greenlighting the ability to name a stablecoin “USD,” as President Trump has done.

    Another beneficiary of this bill is Tether, the world’s largest stablecoin that is based in El Salvador and is used by North Korea, Russian arms dealers, ransomware attackers, the Iranian military, drug cartels, and many other criminal organizations.  Russia, Iran, and North Korea will continue to have venues to use dollar alternatives to bypass U.S. sanctions.

    The GENIUS Act allows Tether to operate freely in the United States with minimal oversight and without providing sufficient tools for the government to stop its abuse for weapons proliferation, war, human trafficking, scams, and other illegal activity.

    Senator Reed says that Congress should be fostering innovation while protecting consumers and national security, however unless these issues are fixed, the GENIUS Act would not balance these two important goals.

    “The so-called GENIUS Act is deeply flawed and doesn’t do enough to protect consumers, national security, and U.S. taxpayers.  Instead of strengthening consumer protections and building clear guardrails that prevent America’s adversaries from using stablecoins to their advantage, this bill greenlights President Trump using his office to line his own pockets while looking the other way at North Korea’s crypto abuses,” said Senator Reed.  “As the popularity of stablecoins continues to grow, we need to provide real guardrails and authorities for regulators.  Nevertheless, Senate Republicans have prioritized the wants of President Trump over the needs of American consumers.”

    Senator Reed has taken to the Senate floor twice recently to outline his concerns with the GENIUS Act, including in a speech Monday night. In remarks on the Senate floor last Thursday, Senator Reed called on Republicans to work across the aisle to better serve American consumers and strengthen crypto guardrails.

    The full transcript of those remarks follows:

    Mr. President, I rise today to discuss S. 1582, the so-called GENIUS Act.

    Several weeks ago, when the Majority Leader said we would have votes on amendments, I took him seriously and was one of the first to file. 

    We could have been voting on my amendments and those of my colleagues at any time in the last few weeks, but that hasn’t happened.  That is regrettable, because the GENIUS Act, as it is currently drafted, is fundamentally flawed. 

    The GENIUS Act exposes taxpayers, consumers, and the financial system to unacceptable risk.  And it creates venues for criminals, terrorists, and rogue governments to finance their illicit activities.  

    Among other things, this bill places the U.S. government’s stamp of approval on Tether—the world’s largest stablecoin, which is based in El Salvador and favored by North Korea, Russian arms dealers, ransomware attackers, the Iranian military, the drug cartels, and so many other criminal organizations. 

    It takes already weak state laws, makes them weaker, and applies them nationwide…making it possible for stablecoin companies to operate with near-zero capital and unable to weather a financial crisis.  It’s possible for stablecoin companies to avoid getting an audit.  It’s impossible for the government to revoke a stablecoin company’s charter—even if it turns out to be a Ponzi scheme or if an executive dips into customer funds.

    The GENIUS Act buys into the belief that the billionaires running the industry know what they’re doing and that the marriage of complex financial products and complex technology simply can’t fail.  The one thing the billionaires know how to do is protect their interests. 

    Not surprisingly this bill leaves open the door to bailouts, which we have seen time and time again for other lightly regulated nonbanks that got into trouble, like Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, AIG, and Bear Stearns. 

    When there is a run on a stablecoin…and there will be a run one day…the industry will run to the American taxpayer for a bailout, and the GENIUS Act paves the way for that to happen with no limits on the Federal Reserve’s authority to prop up the industry.

    Finally, this bill perpetuates Donald Trump’s naked corruption.  It actually greenlights the name of Trump’s stablecoin—USD1—and allows Trump’s hand-picked regulators to write the rules of the road governing his most recent business venture. 

    Mr. President, we need to provide real guardrails for financial regulators to protect consumers, real tools for national security agencies to address this new technology, and real authority for the government to intervene before a crisis gets out of hand. 

    Real guardrails and real tools . . .  not words on a page that give only the “aura” of regulation and protection with no teeth. 

    My amendments and those offered by colleagues on the both sides of the aisle would help provide these tools and authorities.  However, it appears that we won’t have the opportunity to consider a single one of them and fix this bill.

    I urge my colleagues to oppose this highly flawed bill.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A solution to the Iran-Israel conflict can be found – Russian President V. Putin

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    St. Petersburg, June 19 /Xinhua/ — The Iranian-Israeli conflict can be resolved in a way that ensures both Iran’s interests in the peaceful nuclear sector and Israel’s interests in terms of its security, Russian President Vladimir Putin said in St. Petersburg during a meeting with heads of leading global news agencies.

    “It would be right for everyone to look for ways to end the hostilities and find ways for all parties to this conflict to reach an agreement with each other in order to ensure both the interests of Iran on the one hand in its nuclear activities – including peaceful nuclear activities, of course, I mean both peaceful nuclear energy and peaceful nuclear energy in other areas – and to ensure the interests of Israel, from the point of view of the unconditional security of the Jewish state,” noted V. Putin.

    As the Russian leader emphasized, this is a very delicate issue, the solution of which must be very careful. “In general, such a solution can be found,” he added. But the decision, according to him, is up to Iran and Israel. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Interest in Chinese language in Russia is growing due to expansion of contacts with China — Russian President V. Putin

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    St. Petersburg, June 19 /Xinhua/ — Interest in the Chinese language is growing in Russia, which is connected with the expansion of contacts and the growth of economic activity in Russian-Chinese relations. This was stated by Russian President Vladimir Putin, answering a question from the Director General of the Chinese news agency Xinhua Fu Hua during a meeting with heads of international news agencies on the sidelines of the 28th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, which is being held in St. Petersburg from June 18 to 21.

    “I can say that interest in the Chinese language is growing in Russia. There is nothing surprising here, and there is nothing that would distinguish Russian-Chinese relations in this case from any other relations of our country with other countries in the event of an expansion of the volume of contacts and economic activity,” the Russian leader noted.

    As V. Putin said, contacts between Russia and China are growing in all areas. In particular, student exchanges continue. “We have 51 thousand Chinese students studying in Russia, and approximately 25 thousand Russian young people studying in China,” he said, adding that direct contacts have been established between Russian and Chinese universities.

    The Russian President also noted contacts in the cultural and humanitarian fields, which are facilitated by the regular holding of thematic cross-years of Russia and China.

    “And if my memory serves me right, we started these thematic years with the Year of the Chinese Language in Russia and the Year of the Russian Language in China. It is no coincidence. I think we did it very correctly, since it stimulated the interest of both nations in each other,” he emphasized.

    V. Putin explained that when he previously spoke about his close relatives studying Chinese, he was talking about his granddaughter, who speaks Chinese fluently with her teacher from Beijing.

    “But my daughter, back in the early 2000s, before all these significant and well-known events, she began to study Chinese on her own initiative. Simply because she wanted to. She hired a teacher and studied,” the Russian president added. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to final draft guidance on donanemab and lecanemab

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Scientists comment on final NICE draft guidance on the use of donanemab and lecanemab for Alzheimer’s disease. 

    Prof Charles Marshall, Professor of Clinical Neurology, Queen Mary University of London, said:

    “This will be very disappointing news to people living with Alzheimer’s disease. However, the decision is understandable given the high cost to the NHS of giving the drugs for a relatively modest benefit. There are several things which would help to get disease-modifying treatments for Alzheimer’ disease approved in the future. Firstly, we need better information about the true impact of living with Alzheimer’s disease for both the person affected and their family, so that we can better capture all of the benefit on quality of life that these drugs might have. Secondly, we need improved NHS clinics that can offer high quality diagnosis and monitoring of dementia so that the costs of setting up this diagnosis and monitoring are not weighed against the benefit of the drugs. Finally, we need more effective drugs so that the magnitude of benefit becomes indisputable, and there is currently good reason to be hopeful about this.”

    Prof Rob Howard, Professor of Old Age Psychiatry, UCL, said:

    “Nobody should be surprised that NICE have confirmed their earlier view that the new Alzheimer’s disease treatments would not be cost-effective if used within the NHS. Well-conducted clinical trials demonstrated that the actual size of benefits experienced by patients were too small to be noticeable, treatment carries risks of side-effects, and the annual cost of the drugs and safety monitoring required would have been close to the cost of a nurse’s salary for each treated patient.

    “We need better treatments that can make an appreciable difference to the lives of people with dementia and these can only come from further research and study.”

     

    Prof Paresh Malhotra, Head, Division of Neurology, Imperial College London, said:

    “The draft guidance documents from NICE on lecanemab and donanemab mean that these treatments will not be available for people with Alzheimer’s Disease via the NHS. This is not totally unexpected but does create a significant gap between what is done in other countries as well as the private sector, and what will be done for NHS patients. The modest effects and significant costs of these drugs have, understandably, been used to justify these decisions. The treatments would require major infrastructure changes to deliver to all those who are potentially eligible. Perhaps the biggest impact (or lack of it), is that there will be no impetus to change our general approach to make dementia diagnosis faster and to provide longer-term specialist input for people living with Alzheimer’s Disease. New and initially controversial treatments catalysed services and healthcare provision for other neurological conditions such as MS and stroke. People with Alzheimer’s Disease, and Dementia more broadly, will have to continue to wait. In the meantime, we will try to push against the more nihilistic attitudes that are sometimes associated with this very common devastating disease.”

     

    Hilary Evans-Newton, Chief Executive at Alzheimer’s Research UK, said:

    “This rejection is a painful setback for people affected by Alzheimer’s — but sadly not a surprising one. The drugs’ modest benefits, combined with the significant costs of delivering them in the NHS, meant they faced insurmountable challenges. People with early Alzheimer’s in England and Wales now face a long wait for innovative new treatments as they won’t be able to access lecanemab or donanemab unless they can afford to pay privately.

    “This decision sends a troubling signal to the life sciences sector — undermining confidence in the UK as a home for research, innovation and clinical trials. That risks lasting damage to both patients and the economy. NICE’s decision should ring alarm bells for a government that, only a year ago, pledged to make the UK a global leader in dementia treatments.

    “While these drugs are not a cure and do come with potentially serious side effects, they represent an important first step in changing the course of Alzheimer’s. With over 30 Alzheimer’s drugs now in late-stage trials globally, momentum is building – and more will enter regulatory systems in the years ahead. Without intervention from government, people with Alzheimer’s will continue to miss out — not because science is failing, but because the system is. Government must work with NICE, the NHS and industry to pilot licensed drugs, gather more data, and prepare the health system for what’s ahead.

    “One major barrier remains early and accurate diagnosis. Without it, patients can’t access current – or future – treatments. Alongside piloting, urgent investment in diagnostic services is vital if we are to give people a fair chance at the vast progress dementia research is making.”

    Professor Fiona Carragher, Alzheimer’s Society’s Chief Policy and Research Officer, said: 

    “There is no doubt that today’s decision is a setback for people with Alzheimer’s disease. It is highly disappointing that we are in a situation where treatments that slow the progression of the condition are not available on the NHS. 

    “The reality we’re faced with is that these treatments remain out of reach of both the NHS and most eligible people with Alzheimer’s disease. In other diseases like cancer, treatments have become more effective, safer and cheaper over time. It’s essential we see similar progress in dementia.  

    “The fact is, even if donanemab and lecanemab were made available on the NHS tomorrow, too many patients wouldn’t be able to access them because the health system isn’t ready to deliver them. The science is flying but the system is failing. 

    “What we need now is for the UK government to commit to the long-term investment needed to fundamentally change dementia diagnosis so that we are ready for new treatments.  This relies on an early diagnosis and access to specialist diagnostic tests, yet currently a third of people with dementia don’t have a diagnosis at all.  

    “The needs of people with dementia have long been overlooked and this cannot continue. We are heading towards a future where disease-slowing treatments reduce the devastating impact of dementia, and we cannot afford to delay preparing the NHS for them.” 

    NICE published final draft guidance on donanemab and final draft guidance on lecanemab at 00:01 UK time on Thursday 19th June. 

    Declared interests

    Prof Charles Marshall: I have received personal fees from Lilly, Eisai and Roche

    Prof Rob Howard: No COI

    Prof Paresh Malhotra:

    National Specialty Lead for Dementia and Neurodegeneration, NIHR Research Delivery Network

    Honorary Consultant Neurologist, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust

    Serviced Practice Consultant Neurologist, Cleveland Clinic London

    NHSE Working Group Member (Lecanemab and Amyloid PET)

    Trustee, Alzheimer’s Society

    Recipient of ‘Drugs Only’ Grant for NIHR funded Trial, Shire/Takeda

    Independent Data Monitoring Committee, J&J

    Research funding from NIHR, ARUK, Alzheimer’s Society, MRC, DPUK, BHF, Lifearc, FIFA, FA, UK DRI

    For all other experts, no reply to our request for DOIs was received.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Tenaris provides information pursuant to Luxembourg Transparency Law

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LUXEMBOURG, June 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tenaris S.A. (NYSE and Mexico: TS and EXM Italy: TEN) (“Tenaris”, or the “Company”) announced today that the Company’s controlling shareholder, San Faustin S.A. (“San Faustin”), has notified the Company that, as a result of Tenaris’s open market repurchases of own shares under its share buyback program publicly announced on May 27, 2025, San Faustin has passively crossed a voting rights threshold triggering a notice requirement under the Luxembourg Transparency Law.

    On the date hereof, San Faustin informed the Company that, following repurchases of shares by Tenaris in the period from June 9 to June 13, 2025 (disclosed by Tenaris on June 13, 2025, in accordance with the EU Market Abuse Regulation), the 713,605,187 shares of the Company that San Faustin owns represent 66.82% of the Company’s voting rights. As required by the Luxembourg Transparency Law, San Faustin has further provided information on its control chain, wich confirms that the Company’s control structure disclosed on the Company’s 2024 annual report remains unchanged.

    Tenaris is a leading global supplier of steel tubes and related services for the world’s energy industry and certain other industrial applications.

    Giovanni Sardagna
    Tenaris
    1-888-300-5432
    www.tenaris.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: OPEC Fund Development Forum 2025 concludes with new commitments to accelerate global development impact

    Source: OPEC Fund

    18 June 2025 – Highlights:  

    – Announcement of over US$1 billion new financing: OPEC Fund signs US$362 million new loan agreements during the Forum and announces approval of US$720 million in new financing in the second Quarter
     – A Country Partnership Framework agreement with Rwanda earmarks US$300 million financing in the next three years 
    – At the high-level Mauritania roundtable hosted by the OPEC Fund, the Arab Coordination Group (ACG) announced a pledge of US$2 billion financing over the next 5 years to support Mauritania’s development priorities.
    June 18, 2025: The fourth OPEC Fund Development Forum concluded today with a strong slate of new commitments, loan agreements and strategic partnerships to advance inclusive transition and sustainable development. The Forum, which took place in Vienna, Austria brought together more than 600 global leaders, including government representatives, development institutions and private sector stakeholders, under the theme “A Transition That Empowers Our Tomorrow”.
    The OPEC Fund announced some US$720 million in new financing to support development efforts across Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean, and saw the signing of US$362 million in new loan agreements. A new Trade Finance Initiative is set to secure vital supplies and help close trade-related liquidity gaps in partner countries.
    OPEC Fund President Abdulhamid Alkhalifa said: “The OPEC Fund Development Forum reflects our conviction that partnerships must deliver results. Today we achieved tangible progress – with new signings, new partnerships and new approaches to help our partner countries turn ambition into action. Whether in energy, infrastructure, agriculture or finance, we are responding with solutions that make a difference.”
    As part of its Small Island Developing States (SIDS) initiative, the OPEC Fund signed cooperation agreements with Grenada, and the Solomon Islands, expanding support for climate resilience and sustainable infrastructure.
    Deepening Country Partnerships for Long-term Impact: New country-level agreements and cooperation frameworks include:  
    – A US$212 million loan agreement with Oman to finance the Khasab-Daba-Lima Road Project (Sultan Faisal bin Turki Road), improving local and regional connectivity, as well as a Country Partnership Framework (CPF) to strengthen cooperation over the next five years.
    – A US$25 million loan agreement with Cameroon to strengthen the Rice Value Chain Development Project, supporting smallholder farmers and strengthening food security in vulnerable regions, in collaboration with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA) and the Kuwait Fund.
    – A CPF with Rwanda to allocate up to US$300 million in financing for 2025 – 2028, supporting the country’s development priorities, including quality infrastructure, improved essential basic services and the promotion of entrepreneurship and the private sector.
    – Other country partnership agreements included: Azerbaijan to support infrastructure, energy transition and sustainable development; Botswana to support infrastructure, renewable energy, innovation and digital transformation, as well as private sector export-led growth over the next three years; Grenada to build resilience through sustainable development initiatives; Kyrgyz Republic to increase cooperation in transport, water supply and sanitation, energy, agriculture and banking sectors; and Solomon Islands to expand engagement and increase cooperation including in the private sector.
    Scaling up Private Sector Support : The OPEC Fund continues to prioritize private sector-led growth with targeted financing to financial institutions across Africa:
    – In Côte d’Ivoire, a €30 million loan agreement with Coris Bank International Côte d’Ivoire and a €35 million loan agreement with NSIA Banque will facilitate access to finance for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
    – A US$40 million loan agreement with the East African Development Bank (EADB) will boost economic investments across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and Rwanda, strengthening regional integration and inclusive growth.
    New Trade Finance Initiative: At the Forum the OPEC Fund also announced a new Trade Finance Initiative to boost trade resilience in partner countries by facilitating access to essential imports, closing liquidity gaps and strengthening resilience to external shocks in vulnerable economies.
    Advancing global cooperation: The Forum also featured new agreements to deepen multilateral cooperation:
    – A new cooperation agreement with the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI) will strengthen collaboration in infrastructure, energy and human development projects across the Latin America and Caribbean region.
    – The OPEC Fund and the Islamic Organization for Food Security (IOFS) formalized a cooperation agreement to coordinate efforts on climate-resilient agriculture and sustainable food systems.
    – A cooperation agreement with the International Anti-Corruption Academy (IACA) will support training programs to promote institutional transparency and anti-corruption capacity building in partner countries.
    Ahead of the Forum, the OPEC Fund hosted the Annual Meeting of the Heads of Institutions of the Arab Coordination Group (ACG). Delegates participated in a high-level roundtable with the President of Mauritania, Mohamed Ould Ghazouani to strengthen development collaboration and mobilize investment flows to Mauritania. 
    The roundtable resulted in an ACG joint pledge of US$2 billion financing over the next five years. This will be directed to vital sectors, including energy, water, transportation and digital infrastructure to stimulate economic growth. A dedicated Arab Donors Roundtable on the Sahel addressed strategies to mobilize greater support for the region’s urgent challenges. It was organized by the Permanent Interstate Committee for Drought Control in the Sahel (CLISS) and sponsored by the OPEC Fund’s partner institution, the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA).
    About the OPEC Fund
    The OPEC Fund for International Development (the OPEC Fund) is the only globally mandated development institution that provides financing from member countries to non-member countries exclusively. The organization works in cooperation with developing country partners and the international development community to stimulate economic growth and social progress in low- and middle-income countries around the world. The OPEC Fund was established in 1976 with a distinct purpose: to drive development, strengthen communities and empower people. Our work is people-centered, focusing on financing projects that meet essential needs, such as food, energy, infrastructure, employment (particularly relating to MSMEs), clean water and sanitation, healthcare and education. To date, the OPEC Fund has committed more than US$29 billion to development projects in over 125 countries with an estimated total project cost of more than US$200 billion. The OPEC Fund is rated AA+/Outlook Stable by Fitch and S&P Global Ratings. Our vision is a world where sustainable development is a reality for all.  

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: OPEC Fund Development Forum 2025 concludes with new commitments to accelerate global development impact

    Source: OPEC Fund

    18 June 2025 – Highlights:  

    – Announcement of over US$1 billion new financing: OPEC Fund signs US$362 million new loan agreements during the Forum and announces approval of US$720 million in new financing in the second Quarter
     – A Country Partnership Framework agreement with Rwanda earmarks US$300 million financing in the next three years 
    – At the high-level Mauritania roundtable hosted by the OPEC Fund, the Arab Coordination Group (ACG) announced a pledge of US$2 billion financing over the next 5 years to support Mauritania’s development priorities.
    June 18, 2025: The fourth OPEC Fund Development Forum concluded today with a strong slate of new commitments, loan agreements and strategic partnerships to advance inclusive transition and sustainable development. The Forum, which took place in Vienna, Austria brought together more than 600 global leaders, including government representatives, development institutions and private sector stakeholders, under the theme “A Transition That Empowers Our Tomorrow”.
    The OPEC Fund announced some US$720 million in new financing to support development efforts across Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean, and saw the signing of US$362 million in new loan agreements. A new Trade Finance Initiative is set to secure vital supplies and help close trade-related liquidity gaps in partner countries.
    OPEC Fund President Abdulhamid Alkhalifa said: “The OPEC Fund Development Forum reflects our conviction that partnerships must deliver results. Today we achieved tangible progress – with new signings, new partnerships and new approaches to help our partner countries turn ambition into action. Whether in energy, infrastructure, agriculture or finance, we are responding with solutions that make a difference.”
    As part of its Small Island Developing States (SIDS) initiative, the OPEC Fund signed cooperation agreements with Grenada, and the Solomon Islands, expanding support for climate resilience and sustainable infrastructure.
    Deepening Country Partnerships for Long-term Impact: New country-level agreements and cooperation frameworks include:  
    – A US$212 million loan agreement with Oman to finance the Khasab-Daba-Lima Road Project (Sultan Faisal bin Turki Road), improving local and regional connectivity, as well as a Country Partnership Framework (CPF) to strengthen cooperation over the next five years.
    – A US$25 million loan agreement with Cameroon to strengthen the Rice Value Chain Development Project, supporting smallholder farmers and strengthening food security in vulnerable regions, in collaboration with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA) and the Kuwait Fund.
    – A CPF with Rwanda to allocate up to US$300 million in financing for 2025 – 2028, supporting the country’s development priorities, including quality infrastructure, improved essential basic services and the promotion of entrepreneurship and the private sector.
    – Other country partnership agreements included: Azerbaijan to support infrastructure, energy transition and sustainable development; Botswana to support infrastructure, renewable energy, innovation and digital transformation, as well as private sector export-led growth over the next three years; Grenada to build resilience through sustainable development initiatives; Kyrgyz Republic to increase cooperation in transport, water supply and sanitation, energy, agriculture and banking sectors; and Solomon Islands to expand engagement and increase cooperation including in the private sector.
    Scaling up Private Sector Support : The OPEC Fund continues to prioritize private sector-led growth with targeted financing to financial institutions across Africa:
    – In Côte d’Ivoire, a €30 million loan agreement with Coris Bank International Côte d’Ivoire and a €35 million loan agreement with NSIA Banque will facilitate access to finance for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
    – A US$40 million loan agreement with the East African Development Bank (EADB) will boost economic investments across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and Rwanda, strengthening regional integration and inclusive growth.
    New Trade Finance Initiative: At the Forum the OPEC Fund also announced a new Trade Finance Initiative to boost trade resilience in partner countries by facilitating access to essential imports, closing liquidity gaps and strengthening resilience to external shocks in vulnerable economies.
    Advancing global cooperation: The Forum also featured new agreements to deepen multilateral cooperation:
    – A new cooperation agreement with the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI) will strengthen collaboration in infrastructure, energy and human development projects across the Latin America and Caribbean region.
    – The OPEC Fund and the Islamic Organization for Food Security (IOFS) formalized a cooperation agreement to coordinate efforts on climate-resilient agriculture and sustainable food systems.
    – A cooperation agreement with the International Anti-Corruption Academy (IACA) will support training programs to promote institutional transparency and anti-corruption capacity building in partner countries.
    Ahead of the Forum, the OPEC Fund hosted the Annual Meeting of the Heads of Institutions of the Arab Coordination Group (ACG). Delegates participated in a high-level roundtable with the President of Mauritania, Mohamed Ould Ghazouani to strengthen development collaboration and mobilize investment flows to Mauritania. 
    The roundtable resulted in an ACG joint pledge of US$2 billion financing over the next five years. This will be directed to vital sectors, including energy, water, transportation and digital infrastructure to stimulate economic growth. A dedicated Arab Donors Roundtable on the Sahel addressed strategies to mobilize greater support for the region’s urgent challenges. It was organized by the Permanent Interstate Committee for Drought Control in the Sahel (CLISS) and sponsored by the OPEC Fund’s partner institution, the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA).
    About the OPEC Fund
    The OPEC Fund for International Development (the OPEC Fund) is the only globally mandated development institution that provides financing from member countries to non-member countries exclusively. The organization works in cooperation with developing country partners and the international development community to stimulate economic growth and social progress in low- and middle-income countries around the world. The OPEC Fund was established in 1976 with a distinct purpose: to drive development, strengthen communities and empower people. Our work is people-centered, focusing on financing projects that meet essential needs, such as food, energy, infrastructure, employment (particularly relating to MSMEs), clean water and sanitation, healthcare and education. To date, the OPEC Fund has committed more than US$29 billion to development projects in over 125 countries with an estimated total project cost of more than US$200 billion. The OPEC Fund is rated AA+/Outlook Stable by Fitch and S&P Global Ratings. Our vision is a world where sustainable development is a reality for all.  

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to study comparing evidence on intermittent fasting and traditional calorie reduction diets for weight loss

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A study published in The BMJ compares the evidence around intermittent fasting and calorie restriction for weight loss. 

    Prof Maik Pietzner, Chair in Health Data Modelling, Queen Mary University of London’s Precision Health University Research Institute; and co-lead of the Computational Medicine Group at Berlin Institute of Health at Charité, said:

    “The study is well executed, and results are presented in a balanced way reflecting the results of the analysis.  The press release is also well written and is in line with the evidence in the field, that any strategy reducing calorie intake results in a proportional weight loss, either at each meal (CER) or by skipping meals (intermittent fasting).  The missing additional benefit on cardiovascular risk markers of any intermittent fasting schemes aligns with our study that indicated that much longer periods fasting would be needed to change those.  However, we’ve seen that even those reverse quickly to levels seem before the intervention.

    “One point to stress might be the rather moderate level of weight loss achieved with any intervention and the missing long-term follow-up in terms of weight maintenance and reduction in the onset of major diseases.  For example, all dietary regimens, including the different forms of intermittent fasting, are unlikely to be sustainable.  A fact also indicated by the decline in adherence in most studies.

    “In brief, eating less leads to weight loss, irrespective on how you do it.  Aspects that are missed but would have been of interest, are any effects on muscle mass, which is a major concern for current pharmacological interventions on obesity.”

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

    “This meta-analysis of mainly small trials helps to give a general sense of the benefits of intermittent fasting, even if some of the included trials were suboptimal.  Overall, the results do not surprise as there is nothing magical about intermittent fasting for weight loss beyond being another way for people to keep their total calorie intake lower than it would be otherwise – this helps people maintain a lower weight than they would normally.  Hence, it becomes another lifestyle option for weight management.  Whether it is sustainable over the longer term is worth to examine, whereas for those who need to lose much more weight, other options are now clearly available.”

    Dr Amanda Avery, Associate Professor in Nutrition and Dietetics, University of Nottingham, said:

    “This systematic review has compared the weight loss achieved by people in clinical trials who have undertaken intermittent fasting compared to the more traditional dietary approaches to losing weight which involve a continuous reduction in energy (calorie) intake (CER).  Systematic reviews are considered gold standard in research hierarchy and a meta-analysis allows a deeper understanding of the results – meta-analyses statistically interpret the overall findings for us.  This systematic review involved a novel network meta-analysis which is an advanced statistical technique that enables comparisons of multiple interventions including those that have not been compared in head-to-head trials.

    “Given that nearly 100 clinical trials were included in this systematic review, although some with a small number of participants, this research probably provides as good an insight as we are going to find as to whether intermittent fasting (IF) is as effective as traditional dietary approaches to weight management involving a consistent reduction in calories on a daily basis.

    “The authors have carefully considered most of the factors that could affect the interpretation of the findings – the first being that there is no definition for what we mean by IF and a number of different approaches to IF such as time restricted eating, alternate day fasting and the 5:2 approach.  The second factor that makes interpreting the findings difficult is that there are different approaches to achieving CER and the support and resources that people are offered to reduce their daily energy intake may affect how successful they are in losing weight and maintaining weight loss.  Compliance to any intervention will make a difference and people are individuals – one approach may work for one person but not for another.

    “Some of the studies included in the review had a very short intervention period – that is the time when participants were following the different approaches to losing weight.  The authors did conclude that more emphasis should be put on interventions that have been conducted over a longer period of time.  Perhaps as we may have expected, for the studies that had been conducted for 24 weeks or more, it was found that there was no difference between IF and CER in the weight changes seen – but at least they were both more effective compared to no dietary intervention.

    “The pros and cons of IF and CER have been debated for some time now.  This review can hopefully end the debate with the conclusion that if someone choses IF and overall a nutritionally balanced diet is still achieved then it could be used as one of the options to support weight loss with the more traditional dietary approaches still remaining as key strategies – alongside appropriate support.  The majority of the participants in the included studies had higher BMIs and an associated health condition and thus the findings are appropriate for many people who would benefit from weight management.  However I would like to emphasise that IF is not recommended during pregnancy.”

    ‘Intermittent fasting strategies on body weight and other cardiometabolic risk factors: systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomised clinical trials’ by Zhila Semnani-Azad et al. was published in the BMJ at 23:30 UK time on Wednesday 18 June 2025. 

    DOI: 10.1136/bmj-2024-082007

    Declared interests

    Prof Maik Pietzner: “Professor Pietzner has received funding from industry partners (SomaLogic Inc.) to attend conferences unrelated to this work.  No other conflict of interest.”

    Prof Naveed Sattar: “NS has consulted for and/or received speaker honoraria from Abbott Laboratories, AbbVie, Afimmune, Amgen, AstraZeneca, Boehringer Ingelheim, Carmot Therapeutics, Eli Lilly, GlaxoSmithKline, Hanmi Pharmaceuticals, Janssen, Menarini-Ricerche, Merck Sharp & Dohme, Metsera, Novartis, Novo Nordisk, Pfizer, Sanofi, and Roche; and received grant support paid to his University from AstraZeneca, Boehringer Ingelheim, Novartis, and Roche.  No shares in any medical areas.”

    Dr Amanda Avery: “Besides my academic position at the University of Nottingham, I also hold a position at Slimming World as Consultant dietitian in the Nutrition, Research & Health Policy team. 

    I have no other conflicts of interest to declare.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China once again calls on G7 to stop interfering in its internal affairs – Chinese Foreign Ministry

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, June 18 (Xinhua) — China once again calls on the Group of Seven (G7) to recognize the global development trend, abandon the Cold War mentality and ideological prejudices, stop interfering in China’s internal affairs, stop provoking conflicts and confrontation, and do more for the interests of the international community, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said at a regular briefing on Wednesday.

    Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said in a G7 summit chairman’s summary released on June 17 local time that participants stressed the need for constructive and stable relations with China, calling on China to avoid “market distortions” and “overcapacity,” and expressed serious concern about China’s “destabilizing activities” in the East China Sea and South China Sea and the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

    Commenting on the above document, Guo Jiakun noted that the G7 summit participants once again resorted to manipulating issues related to China. According to him, the G7 countries made irresponsible statements on Taiwan, the South China Sea and the East China Sea, and falsely accused China of “excess production capacity” and “market distortions.”

    “This is interference in China’s internal affairs and a violation of the basic norms of international relations. The Chinese side firmly opposes this and has made stern representations to the relevant parties,” Guo Jiakun said.

    The main factor undermining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait today is the activities of separatists advocating “Taiwan independence” and the interference of external forces, the official representative noted. According to him, if the G7 countries truly care about peace in the Taiwan Strait, they should strictly adhere to the one-China principle, clearly oppose “Taiwan independence,” and support China’s reunification.

    Guo Jiakun pointed out that the situation in the East China Sea and the South China Sea is generally stable at present. He called on the G7 to respect the joint efforts of regional countries to resolve issues through dialogue and consultation, maintain peace and stability, and stop using maritime issues to sow discord among regional countries and increase tensions in the region.

    The Chinese diplomat said the allegations of “market distortions” and “excess production capacity” were completely untrue. As Guo Jiakun emphasized, the G7 countries resort to such claims to justify their trade protectionism, and in fact, to contain and suppress China’s industrial progress, politicize and weaponize trade and economic issues. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese Foreign Minister Discusses Israeli-Iranian Conflict with Omani FM

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, June 18 (Xinhua) — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Wednesday said Israel’s attack on Iran was a violation of international law and norms of international relations, an encroachment on the sovereignty and security of the Iranian state, and an undermining of peace and stability in the region.

    Wang Yi, also a member of the Politburo of the CPC Central Committee, made the statement in a telephone conversation with Omani Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad bin Hamoud al-Busaidi, which was initiated by the Omani side. The Chinese diplomat noted that China has always advocated peaceful resolution of any disputes.

    Wang Yi stressed that the top priority at present is to achieve a ceasefire and end the conflict. He pointed out that China supports the joint statement on the Israel-Iran conflict issued by 21 Arab and Islamic countries including Oman, and hopes that they will unite and continue their efforts to promote peace talks.

    China will also maintain communication and coordination with Oman and other regional countries and play a constructive role within platforms such as the UN to help end the conflict and restore peace in the Middle East, the Chinese Foreign Minister said. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Two Iranian centrifuge production facilities attacked – IAEA

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    VIENNA, June 18 (Xinhua) — Two centrifuge production facilities in Iran, the TESA complex in Karaj and the Tehran Nuclear Research Center, were hit, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said on Wednesday.

    As stated in the agency’s publication on the X social network, both facilities had previously been monitored and inspected by the IAEA in accordance with the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action.

    It is noted that one building was damaged in the center in Tehran, while two buildings were destroyed in Karaj.

    On June 13, the IAEA called for an end to attacks on nuclear facilities. “Nuclear facilities should never be attacked, regardless of the context and circumstances,” IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi said at a meeting of the organization’s board of governors.

    “Such attacks have serious implications for nuclear safety, security and safeguards, as well as for peace and security in the region and around the world,” the IAEA chief emphasized. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: US Federal Reserve keeps interest rates unchanged

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    NEW YORK, June 18 (Xinhua) — The U.S. Federal Reserve on Wednesday left its target range for the federal funds rate unchanged at 4.25 percent to 4.5 percent, as robust economic growth bolsters the Fed’s wait-and-see approach.

    The Fed decided not to change its base rate for the fourth time in a row.

    “While fluctuations in net exports weigh on the data, recent data suggest that economic activity continues to expand at a strong pace,” the Fed said in a statement.

    According to the regulator’s assessment, the US maintains a low unemployment rate, stability in the labor market, and slightly elevated inflation.

    “Uncertainty about the economic outlook has diminished but remains high,” the statement said. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Review: BRICS Cooperation Space Constantly Expands – SPIEF Participants

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    St. Petersburg, June 18 (Xinhua) — The cooperation space between the BRICS countries is constantly expanding, especially after the expansion of the association began in 2024. This was stated on Wednesday by participants of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) at the session “BRICS and Partners: Creating a Joint Business Future.”

    Director of the Beijing-Moscow International Trade and Economic Center Ma Shuang noted that China has a long-term strategy for building relations with the BRICS countries. Among the areas that have the greatest potential for joint investment and opening up new markets, she named information technology and the Internet.

    Vice President of the India-South Africa Chamber of Commerce Lebohan Zulu stressed that the main barrier to increasing cooperation among BRICS countries is the legacy of the unipolar world system, which is expressed in the dominance of one currency in the world market, and the insufficient development of international transport and logistics networks. In her opinion, work in these areas, as well as the development of e-commerce platforms, can open up a huge number of prospects and opportunities for BRICS members and partners.

    According to Anna Nesterova, Chairperson of the Board of Directors of Global Rus Trade and Chairperson of the Russian Part of the BRICS Women’s Business Alliance, the expansion of the association has demonstrated broad interest in it among countries around the world. She believes that education and the involvement of more and more women in entrepreneurial activity are relevant areas for the development of cooperation in BRICS. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Carter helps secure Critical Funding for Savannah-Hilton Head International Airport

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Earl L Buddy Carter (GA-01)

    Headline: Carter helps secure Critical Funding for Savannah-Hilton Head International Airport

    Carter helps secure Critical Funding for Savannah-Hilton Head International Airport

    Washington, June 18, 2025

    SAVANNAH- Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) today announced $11.4 million in Department of Transportation grants for the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport.

    Combined, the three grants provide $1.3 million to update the existing airport master plan, $3.7 million to construct a new taxiway, and $6.4 million to expand the existing general aviation apron.  

    “The Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport is a crown jewel of Georgia’s First Congressional District. These funds will help the airport improve its already stellar operations, connecting the world to our beautiful coast and providing best-in-class service for all passengers,” said Rep. Carter.

    “It is great to hear that we will be receiving these three grants to help pay for necessary airfield infrastructure projects at our airport as we continue to grow. These grants will help us facilitate aircraft movements to our new air cargo complex and our expanding Business/General Aviation campus in the Southeast Quadrant of the airport,” said Greg Kelly, A.A.E., Executive Director, Savannah Airport Commission

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Graham, Kelly, Barrasso, Gallego Applaud Senate Passage of Glioblastoma Awareness Day Resolution

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Lindsey Graham

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina), Mark Kelly (D-Arizona), John Barrasso (R-Wyoming) and Ruben Gallego (D-Arizona) today applauded the passage of their Senate Resolution designating July 16, 2025 as Glioblastoma Awareness Day.

    “Glioblastoma is an aggressive brain cancer, and I have seen three members of the Senate family, Ted Kennedy, Senator Barrasso’s wife, Bobbi, and my dearest friend John McCain, lose their battle to it,” said Senator Graham. “This resolution honors my friends, all of those who have lost their battle to glioblastoma and the strong individuals battling glioblastoma every day. It will create national awareness of this horrible disease and encourage medical professionals to work together to find a cure. I am glad to be working alongside Senators Kelly, Barrasso, Gallego, T. Scott, Markey, Warren, Van Hollen, Coons and Warnock. Together, we hope to prevent others from suffering from this disease in the future and honoring those who have lost their battle to glioblastoma.”

    “Glioblastoma is a devastating disease that continues to harm the lives of so many Americans and their families, including a great Arizonan and American hero, Senator John McCain,” said Senator Kelly. “In honor of him and all of those currently fighting this disease, I’m once again supporting this effort to encourage research that will improve people’s quality of life and bring us closer to beating it once and for all.” 

    “After losing my wife Bobbi to this deadly disease, I know firsthand how this tragic diagnosis affects patients and their families. Raising awareness and supporting efforts to find a cure is a personal priority for me,” said Senator Barrasso. “Our bipartisan resolution honors our commitment to supporting research that will find a cure for this deadly disease. I am proud to join this resolution to honor Bobbi Barrasso, our colleague John McCain, and all those who have lost their battles in the fight against glioblastoma.”

    “Glioblastoma is a terrible and complex brain cancer that’s taken far too many lives, including Arizona’s own Senator John McCain,” said Senator Gallego. “Senator McCain was a giant in Arizona and in the Senate, and I’m proud to support this resolution for him, the McCain family, and every family touched by glioblastoma. We owe it to them to keep fighting for a cure.”

    In addition to Graham, Kelly, Barrasso and Gallego, the resolution is also cosponsored by U.S. Senators Tim Scott (R-South Carolina), Ed Markey (D-Massachusetts), Elizabeth Warren (D-Massachusetts), Chris Van Hollen (D-Maryland), Christopher Coons (D-Delaware) and Raphael Warnock (D-Georgia).

    The resolution:

    • Designates July 16, 2025, as “Glioblastoma Awareness Day”
    • Encourages increased public awareness of glioblastoma
    • Honors the individuals who have died from the devastating disease of glioblastoma or are currently living with the disease
    • Supports efforts to develop better treatments for glioblastoma that will improve the long-term prognosis for, and the quality of life of, individuals diagnosed with the disease
    • Recognizes the importance of molecular biomarker testing to the diagnosis and treatment of glioblastoma
    • Expresses support for the individuals who are battling brain tumors, as well as the families, friends, and caregivers of those individuals
    • Urges a collaborative approach to brain tumor research among governmental, private, and nonprofit organizations, which is a promising means of advancing the understanding and treatment of glioblastoma
    • Encourages continued investments in glioblastoma research and treatments, including through the Glioblastoma Therapeutics Network and other existing brain tumor research resources.

    To read the text of the resolution, click HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Secretary of Defense Hegseth Testifies Before Senate Committee on Base Defense, Importance of Air Superiority in Conflicts

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND)
    ***Click here to download video. Click here for audio.***
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) held a hearing today to review the U.S. Department of Defense’s (DOD) budget request for Fiscal Year 2026. During the hearing, members received testimony from Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth; Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Dan Caine; and Bryn Woollacott MacDonnell, who is performing the duties of the Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller) and Chief Financial Officer.
    U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer, Chairman of the SASC Airland Subcommittee, asked the witnesses about the importance of protecting U.S. military bases from attacks and the strategic role air superiority plays in modern conflicts.
    [embedded content]
    Cramer noted the Obama administration’s nuclear deal with Iran licensed its nuclear aspirations, creating a serious problem still affecting our nation.
    Regarding the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran, Cramer asked Gen. Caine about the importance of air superiority over Iran and in future fights.
    “Well, sir, we could spend hours talking about the advocacy of air power,” said Gen. Caine. “I think the freedom of maneuver that it creates is a great example of that. If you look at the two theaters right now, with the Israeli Air Force striking at will at this point, over Iran, juxtaposed with the challenges that we’re having with a frozen forward line of troops in Europe, is a great case study of it. You know, the great thinkers, air power thinkers, are looking at the advancement in technologies from both theaters, the advancement of first person view drones and things like that. I think folks are going to have to think clearly about what does the future of air superiority look like, and how does it evolve to make sure that we’re protecting those essential teammates that are on the ground fighting in order to prevent frozen FLOTs, forward lines of troops, in the future.”
    Cramer said there have been two recent examples of covert operations where drones act deep within enemy territory to destroy critical capabilities which were previously considered safe from harm.  
    Ukraine recently conducted a surprise drone attack called “Operation Spider’s Web” against Russia, targeting airfields in multiple regions across the country. The Center for Strategic and International Studies reported this attack showcased Ukraine’s “tactical ingenuity” and “illuminated the broader technological and strategic shifts reshaping modern warfare.” 
    “We’ve seen some pretty spectacular displays of the ability to go […] covertly, deep within the enemy’s territory, and take out some pretty significant assets, both in Russia and in Iran,” said Cramer. “A lot of us fear we’re vulnerable, as well. You spoke very briefly, a reference, I think, in response to one of Senator Gillibrand’s questions about the importance of policy. So, when we talk about the United States itself and our bases here in the country, policy is a bigger challenge than weapons, to be honest. But what about responsibility?”
    Cramer questioned Hegseth about ways DOD is ensuring American military bases are protected from attacks. He also asked which services are responsible for a base’s air defense and for leading the effort on capabilities to counter this kind of attack.
    “Senator, you’re right to ask the question,” said Hegseth. “We met on this very topic two days ago, because you’re right, we’ve already made initial efforts, but I liken it to the effort that was made around IEDs [improvised explosive devices] in Iraq and Afghanistan, where it couldn’t be a service only response. It needed to be across the joint force. It needed to be immediate, and the capabilities had to be prepared to adapt in real time to adjustments the enemy was making, and you saw that in […] counter-IED technology. We need the same type of effort in counter-UAS, not just forward deployed, because right now you do it with what you have, but also at home, considering the authority. So, that is something the Department is doing in real time.” 
    Earlier today, Cramer introduced the Protect Our Bases Act with Senate Banking Committee Chairman Tim Scott (R-SC), which would strengthen national security by ensuring the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) can effectively review foreign land purchases near sensitive military, intelligence, and national laboratory sites. 

    MIL OSI USA News –