NewzIntel.com

Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Construction work on the A69 motorway in France halted – E-001231/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission agrees that good connectivity and access to a well-functioning and sustainable transport system is key for regional development, for fostering economic, social, and territorial cohesion, and for the quality of life of EU citizens, including better rural-urban connectivity.

    Connectivity is one of the main objectives of the trans-European transport network (TEN-T) policy aimed at the creation of an EU wide, multimodal network of transport connections built in compliance with commonly agreed infrastructure standards.

    The road between Toulouse and Castres is not part of the TEN-T network. The planning and decisions on possible investments remain within the national competence.

    EU cohesion policy may play an important role in the matter questioned. However, the investment strategy of the Occitanie regional programme as proposed by the region and adopted by the Commission does not foresee funding for transport infrastructure under Policy Objective 3 ‘A more connected Europe’. It can still be noted that the region has allocated EUR 21 million to sustainable urban mobility.

    Last updated: 13 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Proposed ban on lead in ammunition – P-001769/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The European Chemicals Agency’s Committee for Socio-Economic Analysis concluded[1] in its assessment that the proposed restriction of lead in ammunition is proportionate, i.e. the expected benefits compensate the expected costs.

    The regulation on the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH)[2] does not provide for compensatory mechanisms, because restrictions are proposed after thoroughly assessing their estimated costs and benefits.

    In its proposal, the Commission paid close attention to preserving Member States’ defence preparedness as well as the Union’s strategic autonomy and security of supply.

    To this end, it (i) excludes all military and defence applications from the scope, and (ii) allows the continued use of lead bullets (the most common ammunition used for defence purposes) in civilian sports shooting ranges, without conditions.

    This will ensure that the demand for lead bullets remains at pre-restriction levels as the market for lead bullets is driven by bullets for sport shooting.

    Production lines for lead bullets will therefore remain economically viable and available should there be a need to scale up production for military uses.

    The restriction is not expected to bring new dependencies from third countries as most lead and steel used in ammunition already come from outside the EU. The proposed obligation to recover spent lead will rather help reduce the existing dependence.

    • [1] Committee for Risk Assessment (RAC), Committee for Socioeconomic Analysis (SEAC). Opinion on an Annex XV dossier proposing restrictions on Lead and its compounds (2 December 2022). https://echa.europa.eu/documents/10162/2c82ef18-ce5d-4b4f-8ff0-002932154acc.
    • [2] Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 December 2006 concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) (OJ L 396 30.12.2006, p. 1). https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A02006R1907-20241218.
    Last updated: 13 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Methodology for registering heavy-duty vehicles running exclusively on CO2 neutral fuels – E-002265/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002265/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Andreas Glück (Renew)

    On 26 June 2024, Regulation (EU) 2024/1610 on strengthening the CO2 emission performance standards for new heavy-duty vehicles entered into force. Since CO2 reduction targets reaching 90 % in 2040 are measured only at the tailpipe, the regulation contradicts the important principle of technological neutrality. Indeed, it severely limits the possible use of CO2 neutral fuels, such as synthetic fuels and biofuels, to decarbonise heavy-duty transport in the EU.

    In recital 17 of Regulation (EU) 2024/1610, the Commission is tasked with assessing the role of a methodology for registering heavy-duty vehicles running exclusively on CO2 neutral fuels within one year of the date of entry into force of the regulation.

    • 1.When is the Commission planning to publish its assessment of the role of a methodology for registering heavy-duty vehicles running exclusively on CO2 neutral fuels?
    • 2.Is the Commission considering a targeted amendment of Regulation (EU) 2024/1610 in order to complement the legislation, with the possibility of registering heavy-duty vehicles running exclusively on CO2 neutral fuels?

    Submitted: 5.6.2025

    Last updated: 13 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Risks linked to hidden communication modules in solar inverters – E-002219/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002219/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Beatrice Timgren (ECR)

    A recent investigation has revealed that solar inverters manufactured by Chinese companies and deployed across Western markets may contain communication modules capable of transmitting data without the knowledge of the user[1]. These hidden modules, thus far only discovered in models exported to US markets, raise serious cybersecurity and sovereignty concerns. Such devices are reportedly installed in the products without being listed in the product documentation. This could potentially enable remote shutdowns and data exfiltration.

    Given the above:

    • 1.Is the Commission aware of these findings, and has it initiated an investigation into the security implications of Chinese-made inverters installed within the EU?
    • 2.What steps is the Commission taking to assess and mitigate risks to energy infrastructure from Chinese-controlled hardware and software?
    • 3.Will the Commission consider adjusting existing EU security standards or certification procedures to ensure that solar inverters and related components are subject to checks for hidden communication capabilities?

    Submitted: 3.6.2025

    • [1] Reuters, ‘Rogue communication devices found in Chinese solar power inverters’, 14 May 2025, https://www.reuters.com/sustainability/climate-energy/ghost-machine-rogue-communication-devices-found-chinese-inverters-2025-05-14.
    Last updated: 13 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Reserving strategic public procurement of European software for European companies – E-002666/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Since 12 July 2023, the Foreign Subsidies Regulation (FSR)[1] enables the Commission to address the distortive effect on competition of foreign subsidies.

    In particular, it introduced a notification obligation for bidders in public procurement procedures falling within the scope of application of the regulation with an estimated value equal or greater than EUR 250 million.

    In so far as the Commission’s own funding activities are concerned, the recast of the Financial Regulation[2] has introduced a horizontal legal basis in its Article 136 in order to identify sensitive award procedures, e.g. concerning strategic assets and interests such as satellite infrastructure.

    This allows for the introduction of participation restrictions, including for third country ownership and control of applicants and tenderers, where necessary, to protect security and public order of the EU and its Member States.

    Furthermore, with the Single Market Strategy[3] presented on 21 May 2025, the Commission has reaffirmed its commitment to review the EU public procurement framework in 2026 also with a view to introducing European preference criteria in EU public procurement for certain strategic technologies and sectors, while ensuring the competitiveness of tenders.

    The development of the platform as referred to by the Honourable Member has not been supported with EU funds.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:32022R2560.
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=OJ:L_202402509.
    • [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:52025DC0500.
    Last updated: 13 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Digitisation of public administration and protection of European citizens’ data – E-000997/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Interoperable Europe Act[1] mandates EU and public bodies to conduct interoperability assessments (since 2025) and promotes cross-border collaboration via a share-and-reuse mechanism for solutions.

    This addresses interoperability gaps in states like Romania. To strengthen cybersecurity, the EU equipped itself with an extensive and solid legal framework, which includes the NIS2 Directive[2], the Cyber Resilience Act[3], the Cyber Solidarity Act[4] and the Cybersecurity Act[5] establishing the European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA), while the Digital Europe Programme (DEP) and Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) fund IT infrastructure upgrades.

    For example, the Romanian recovery and resilience plan contains several reforms and investments to bolster cybersecurity of public and private entities for a budget of approximately EUR 138 million.

    The European Digital Identity (EUDI) Wallet and upcoming EU Business Wallet provide secure, harmonised digital identification for citizens, businesses, and public administrations to authenticate, receive notifications, and share verified credentials.

    For data protection, the Once-Only Technical System (OOTS) enables secure cross-border data sharing (e.g. birth certificates), identification through eIDAS/EUDI Wallets, with user consent and data previews.

    The Digital-Ready Policymaking (DRPM) framework ensures EU policies embed interoperability safeguards, including a mandatory ‘digital statement’ during policy design.

    Together, these initiatives streamline access to digital services (e.g. a Romanian citizen sharing data with a German institution) while ensuring compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)[6] and cybersecurity standards.

    • [1] Regulation (EU) 2024/903 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 March 2024 laying down measures for a high level of public sector interoperability across the Union; OJ L, 2024/903, 22.3.2024.
    • [2] Directive (EU) 2022/2555 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 December 2022 on measures for a high common level of cybersecurity across the Union, amending Regulation (EU) No 910/2014 and Directive (EU) 2018/1972, and repealing Directive (EU) 2016/1148; OJ L 333, 27.12.2022, p. 80-152.
    • [3] Regulation (EU) 2024/2847 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 October 2024 on horizontal cybersecurity requirements for products with digital elements and amending Regulations (EU) No 168/2013 and (EU) 2019/1020 and Directive (EU) 2020/1828; OJ L, 2024/2847, 20.11.2024.
    • [4] Regulation (EU) 2025/38 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 December 2024 laying down measures to strengthen solidarity and capacities in the Union to detect, prepare for and respond to cyber threats and incidents and amending Regulation (EU) 2021/694; OJ L, 2025/38, 15.1.2025.
    • [5] Regulation (EU) 2019/881 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 April 2019 on ENISA and on information and communications technology cybersecurity certification and repealing Regulation (EU) No 526/2013; OJ L 151, 7.6.2019, p. 15-69.
    • [6] Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 April 2016 on the protection of natural persons with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data, and repealing Directive 95/46/EC; OJ L 119, 4.5.2016, p. 1-88.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Strengthening workplace health and safety to prevent sudden cardiac arrest deaths – E-001716/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU ‘occupational safety and health (OSH) Framework Directive’[1] lays down the duty of the employer to ensure workers’ safety and health in all work-related aspects.

    It sets minimum requirements that apply to all workers and sectors of activity, covering risk assessment, preventive and protective measures, health surveillance and training, with special protection for sensitive risk groups.

    Along with the related OSH directives, the framework Directive provides comprehensive protection against all occupational risks. Therefore, it does not include explicit provisions for specific medical conditions, and there are no current plans for amendment. The development and implementation of specific measures fall under the prerogative of Member States.

    Nevertheless, several cardiovascular disease (CVD) risks are addressed by EU actions, for example, by providing an E-guide to managing stress and psychosocial risks[2].

    The Commission is also working on addressing other relevant OSH risks, for example via the review of the Workplace Directive[3] and the Display Screen Equipment Directive[4] to address new ways of working.

    The Commission facilitates the exchange of good practices and supports evidence-based policymaking to address CVD risks within the OSH context.

    In this regard, the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work provides analyses, guidelines, and tools to support the prevention and management of occupational CVDs[5] related risks.

    It is also planning an overview of regulation, policies, strategies and programmes for the prevention of work-related CVDs[6]. The Senior Labour Inspectors’ Committee prepares publications relevant to CVD prevention[7].

    • [1] Council Directive 89/391/EEC of 12 June 1989 on the introduction of measures to encourage improvements in the safety and health of workers at work. OJ L 183, 29.6.1989, p. 1. — https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/ALL/?uri=celex%3A31989L0391.
    • [2] European Agency for Safety and Health at Work, https://osha.europa.eu/en/tools-and-resources/e-guides/e-guide-managing-stress-and-psychosocial-risks.
    • [3] Council Directive 89/654/EEC of 30 November 1989 concerning the minimum safety and health requirements for the workplace (first individual directive within the meaning of Article 16 (1) of Directive 89/391/EEC). OJ L 393, 30.12.1989, p. 1-12. — https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/1989/654/oj/eng.
    • [4] Council Directive 90/270/EEC of 29 May 1990 on the minimum safety and health requirements for work with display screen equipment (fifth individual Directive within the meaning of Article 16 (1) of Directive 89/391/EEC) (90/270/EEC). OJ L 156 21.6.1990, p. 14. — https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/1990/270/oj/eng.
    • [5] https://osha.europa.eu/sites/default/files/documents/20230105%20Final%20SPD%202024-2026-FINAL.pdf.
    • [6] https://osha.europa.eu/en/about-eu-osha/procurement/osha2025lvp0002-exa-overview-regulation-policies-strategies-initiatives-and-programmes-prevention-work-related-cardiovascular-diseases-cvds-low-value-procedure.
    • [7] https://circabc.europa.eu/ui/group/fea534f4-2590-4490-bca6-504782b47c79/library/95caf22f-5b52-45e3-ad25-01aaa5c78e2c/details.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Period poverty in the EU: actions by the Commission – E-001082/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    More than one fifth of the EU population lives at risk of poverty or social exclusion with women at higher risk. EU initiatives, such as the Council Recommendation on adequate minimum income ensuring active inclusion address the challenge and the upcoming EU Anti-Poverty Strategy will aim at facilitating people’s access to the essential protections and services, along with addressing the root causes of poverty.

    In the Roadmap for Women’s Rights[1], the Commission lists combating women’s poverty and facilitating access to affordable menstrual hygiene products as key policy objectives to uphold and advance the principle of ‘equal pay and economic empowerment’ and ‘the highest standards of health’, respectively.

    The inability of women and girls to access menstrual products could make them miss school or work and negatively impact their health. Member States are free to apply a reduced rate or exempt menstrual products of value added tax[2] although this may not necessarily result in a reduction in price.

    Through the Mutual Learning Programme in Gender Equality, the Commission will invite Member States to organise an exchange of good practices on women’s poverty, including period poverty.

    The communication on a comprehensive approach to mental health[3] supports vulnerable groups, including children and women in vulnerable situations, through its 20 flagship initiatives and around EUR 1.2 million in funding opportunities.

    Initiatives include the identification of best and promising practices to support knowledge sharing, such as the Neunerhaus mental health practice[4] targeting women experiencing poverty.

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/news/eu-roadmap-womens-rights-renewed-push-gender-equality-2025-03-07_en.
    • [2] According to Annex III, point (3), of Council Directive 2006/112/EC of 28 November 2006 on the common system of value added tax, OJ L 347, 11.12.2006, p. 1, as amended by Council Directive (EU) 2022/542.
    • [3] https://health.ec.europa.eu/publications/comprehensive-approach-mental-health_en.
    • [4] https://webgate.ec.europa.eu/dyna/bp-portal/submission/search?call=Mental%20Health.
    Last updated: 13 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – A cloud to call our own! – E-001198/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission aims to support an enhanced availability and uptake of European cloud solutions across the EU through the upcoming Cloud and Artificial intelligence Development Act[1].

    The main objective is to at least triple the EU’s overall data centre capacity within the next five to seven years[2] and ensure that highly critical use cases in the EU are served by highly secure EU-based cloud capacity[3].

    The Act will be complemented by a single EU-wide cloud policy for public administrations and public procurement[4].

    Moreover, the Commission has approved the ongoing implementation of the Important Project of Common European Interest on Next Generation Cloud Infrastructure and Services[5].

    Also, through the co-financing under the Digital Europe Programme, the Commission also supports the deployment of an EU marketplace for federated cloud services[6] to facilitate the provision and the procurement of cloud services across the EU by EU cloud service providers[7].

    The Commission’s adequacy decision on the EU-US Data Privacy Framework[8] is based on the key safeguards included in Executive Order 14086 (EO 14086) adopted by the President of the United States[9].

    In particular, EO 14086 introduced safeguards to ensure that the collection and use of personal data of Europeans by United States intelligence agencies is limited to what is necessary and proportionate in pursuit of defined national security objectives.

    Moreover, EO 14086 established the Data Protection Review Court, providing EU citizens with a redress mechanism with binding investigatory and remedial powers.

    EO 14086 continues to be in place, providing key safeguards to data transferred from the EU[10], and addressing all the points raised by the Court of Justice in its Schrems II judgment[11].

    • [1] Mission letter from the President of the European Commission to the Executive Vice-President-designate for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy: https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/3b537594-9264-4249-a912-5b102b7b49a3_en?filename=Mission%20letter%20-%20VIRKKUNEN.pdf.
    • [2] This will be achieved by streamlining the permitting procedures and improving access to suitable sites, energy and funding for data centres that meet ambitious resource efficiency requirements. This is an important opportunity for European data centre operators and cloud service providers will have an important role to play in meeting this objective.
    • [3] Such highly critical uses cares in the EU are characterised by high sovereignty and operational autonomy requirements.
    • [4] The aim will be to assist the Act’s implementation in the public sector, guide public authorities in their cloud procurement decisions and empower them to leverage their purchasing power more strategically.
    • [5] IPCEI CIS/8ra Europe’s Next Generation Cloud Infrastructure and Services — 8ra: https://www.8ra.com/ Seven Member States will provide up to EUR 1.2 billion in public funding, expected to unlock an additional EUR 1.4 billion.
    • [6]  Project DOME DOME Mark etplace: https://dome-marketplace.eu/dashboard.
    • [7]  Such providers offer highly trustworthy, curated cloud services that serve the interests of crucial sectors dealing with sensitive data, such as the public sector.
    • [8]  Commission Implementing Decision EU 2023/1795 of 10 July 2023 pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council on the adequate level of protection of personal data under the EU-US Data Privacy Framework (notified under document C(2023)4745) (Text with EEA relevance) C/2023/4745 OJ L 231, 20.9.2023, p. 118-229 https://commission.europa.eu/document/fa09cbad-dd7d-4684-ae60-be03fcb0fddf_en.
    • [9]  Executive Order 14086 on ‘Enhancing Safeguards for United States Signals Intelligence Activities’.
    • [10]  Its requirements and safeguards have also been recently assessed in the Commission’s report of 9 October 2024 to the European Parliament and the Council on the first periodic review of the functioning of the adequacy decision on the EU-US Data Privacy Framework COM(2024) 451 final: https://commission.europa.eu/document/25695177-8073-4ce3-bf81-eb816dc6b468_en.
    • [11]  C-311/18, Data Protection Commissioner v Facebook Ireland Limited and Maximillian Schrems (‘Schrems II’), 16 July 2020, ECLI:EU:C:2020:559.
    Last updated: 13 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Accountability for delays to the first flights of the day (first wave and knock-on effects) – E-001487/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The regulatory framework governing air traffic management in the EU includes performance and charging schemes for air navigation services and network functions.

    As part of those schemes, air traffic service providers are bound to implement binding national performance targets for air traffic control capacity, which is aimed at limiting the number of delays caused by air traffic control in Europe.

    Member States must also set out incentives of financial nature for the achievement of those performance targets by the service providers in the key performance area of capacity in an effective and proportional manner, both for services to overflights and for services at and around airports.

    The Commission will revise soon the detailed rules governing the performance and charging schemes for the next reference period of the Single European Sky performance and charging scheme starting in 2030 in order to implement the changes introduced by the regulation on the implementation of the Single European Sky (Regulation (EU) 2024/2803[1]).

    At this occasion, the Commission will review the relevance of the indicators used for the setting of performance targets, which may include the need to address specifically services to first-wave flights. The detailed rules governing the setting up of incentive schemes may also be further assessed.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/2803/oj/eng.
    Last updated: 13 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Funding and prioritising of the Rail Baltica project – E-000924/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The Commission considers the Rail Baltica project one of the flagship projects on the trans-European transport network (TEN-T) because it would finally allow to connect the Baltic states to the single European railway area. This is crucial for the regions’ economic growth, cohesion and now more than ever, its security and defence. For the Commission, Rail Baltica is the most urgent transport infrastructure project in the Baltic States to be implemented.

    2. In the Baltic states, the Rail Baltica project is managed by RB Rail joint venture and Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania authorities. The Baltic states cooperate closely, including through the RB Rail, to ensure the success of Rail Baltica. The project partners monitor the costs and expected benefits. They are also responsible for the respective railway market and ensuring that rail traffic can start as soon as the line is operational. The Commission follows the project implementation and has always encouraged the organisations involved in the implementation to use the most cost-efficient solutions. There are frequent audits, and the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency and the European Coordinator for the North Sea Baltic corridor monitor the project.

    3. The c o-legislators identified the infrastructure priorities of the trans-European transport network (TEN-T) until 2050 in TEN-T Regulation[1] to ensure consistency and predictability. They identified Rail Baltica as a major cross-border missing link[2]. The applicable regulation also considers financial constraints and the fiscal rules of the EU to safeguard the financial stability and resilience of Member States apply.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=OJ:L_202401679.
    • [2] Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) Regulation: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2021/1153/oj/eng.
    Last updated: 13 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Aromatic and medicinal plants from Greek producers – E-001584/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), through the Strategic Plans Regulation[1], includes a range of tools that allow farmers and Member States to develop production (including of aromatic and medicinal plants) ensuring the viability and competitiveness of farms.

    In the Greek CAP Strategic Plan (CSP)[2], a Basic Income Support with a total amount of EUR 4 274 574 890.is paid to all eligible farmers.

    The unit amount, per eligible hectare in the agricultural area of arable crops, is set to EUR 215. An increased support for small/medium farms and young farmers with bigger income support needs with a total amount of EUR 913 297 896 is also programmed under the CSP.

    Farmers may participate on a voluntary basis in the eco-schemes relevant to medicinal and aromatic plants with different support rates (e.g. organic farming: EUR 1 295/hectare/year, use of resistant and adapted species and varieties: EUR 824/hectare/year).

    Furthermore, under the rural development interventions, investment support is available to modernize or improve production, aiming to improve economic efficiency, and competitiveness of agricultural holdings to quickly adapt to market needs and to increase their market orientation.

    In addition, support is programmed for investments in the processing/marketing and/or development of several agricultural products, including medicinal and aromatic plants, aiming to produce quality products, increasing their added value, as well as helping to enter new markets.

    Finally, the CSP provides support for interventions for producer organisations (EUR 31 million), quality schemes (EUR 41 million), training (EUR 108 million) and advisory services to farmers (EUR 63 million).

    • [1]  Regulation (EU) 2021/2115 (OJ L 435, 6.12.2021, p. 1).
    • [2] CAP strategic plan of Greece: https://www.agrotikianaptixi.gr/category/sskap-2023-2027/sskap-egkrisi-tropopoiiseis/.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – French intelligence services allegedly call on Telegram to censor conservative voices in Romania – E-002218/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002218/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Christine Anderson (ESN)

    Pavel Durov, the founder of the Telegram messaging platform, has stated publicly that in spring 2025 Nicolas Lerner, the head of France’s foreign intelligence service (DGSE), asked him to suppress conservative Romanian voices on Telegram in the run-up to the presidential elections in Romania[1]. Durov maintains that he rejected the request. The French authorities have firmly rejected the allegations and described them as unfounded.

    • 1.Is the Commission aware of any attempts by the French authorities or intelligence services to influence content on platforms such as Telegram in connection with the presidential elections in Romania, and how does the Commission assess such allegations with regard to upholding fundamental rights in the EU, in particular the freedom of speech and the freedom of information?
    • 2.What steps is the Commission taking to ensure that Member States do not exert undue influence on digital platforms, especially in the context of elections in other Member States?
    • 3.Is the Commission planning to look into these allegations and, if necessary, take action to protect the integrity of elections and the independence of digital communication platforms in the EU?

    Submitted: 3.6.2025

    • [1] https://t.me/durov/232
    Last updated: 13 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Commissioners’ expenditure on personal services – follow-up to question P-001177/2023 – E-002216/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002216/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Christine Anderson (ESN)

    During a meeting at the German Bundestag, the new Commissioner for Budget Piotr Serafin stated that he pays for personal services such as hairdressers’ visits out of his own pocket and does not charge such costs to the EU budget. In the light of this welcome clarification relating to him personally, and of the previous priority question for written answer P-001177/2023[1] asking about the Commission’s expenditure on photographers, hairdressers and make-up artists, some follow-up questions arise.

    • 1.Since the beginning of the current mandate, which Members of the Commission – including the President of the Commission – have charged costs for photographers, hairdressers, make-up artists or similar personal services to the EU budget?
    • 2.Since the beginning of the current mandate, what is the total cost of the services mentioned in the priority question for written answer P-001177/2023 such as photography, hairdressing and make-up?
    • 3.Does the Commission plan, in the interests of budgetary discipline, to disclose such expenditure on its website in future, including on an individual basis, or to provide an annual breakdown?

    Submitted: 3.6.2025

    • [1] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/P-9-2023-001177_EN.html
    Last updated: 13 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – EU funding of the Gesellschaft für Freiheitsrechte through intermediary organisations – E-002215/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002215/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Christine Anderson (ESN)

    The Gesellschaft für Freiheitsrechte (GFF – Society for Civil Rights) is a German non-governmental organization that engages in strategic legal action on fundamental rights issues within Germany and takes clear political positions – among other things, it is working to have the AfD banned as a political party. According to its own information, the GFF receives funding from various foundations, including the European AI & Society Fund. The GFF also received financial backing from the Digital Freedom Fund, which supports strategic lawsuits in the area of digital rights in Europe and receives project funding from the EU’s Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values programme.

    • 1.Have EU funds been channelled – directly or indirectly – to the GFF, in particular through support structures such as the European AI & Society Fund or the Digital Freedom Fund?
    • 2.If so, how does the Commission ensure that this funding is in line with the EU’s political neutrality, in particular where funded organisations influence the political discourse in a Member State through their activities?
    • 3.Does the Commission consider it appropriate that EU funds are used to support organisations that engage in legal action relating to national political disputes and what safeguards are in place to prevent possible political interference in Member States?

    Submitted: 3.6.2025

    Last updated: 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Self-sufficiency in plasma: a European necessity – E-002294/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002294/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Hilde Vautmans (Renew)

    The availability of human plasma is essential for the treatment of thousands of European patients suffering from rare or chronic diseases. At present, however, the EU is highly dependent on plasma imports from countries outside Europe, notably the United States. This dependence poses a strategic risk, especially in light of increasing global demand and geopolitical uncertainties. During the COVID-19 crisis, this vulnerability became painfully visible when patients in Europe faced shortages.

    Some Member States, including Belgium and Denmark, have already demonstrated that a model based on voluntary, unpaid donations is not only effective and scalable, but also ethical, safe and crisis resistant. This model offers a viable alternative to commercial systems and deserves recognition and support from Europe.

    • 1.Does the Commission recognise that human plasma is a strategic resource for public health in the EU?
    • 2.What steps is the Commission taking to develop a coordinated European strategy to ensure plasma self-sufficiency?
    • 3.How will the Commission actively support the model of voluntary, unpaid plasma donations within this strategic framework?

    Submitted: 6.6.2025

    Last updated: 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Ensuring fair and quality access to on-demand transport services for passengers and drivers in the EU – E-002252/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002252/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Rosa Serrano Sierra (S&D)

    In its Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy, the Commission promised to look into ways to make on-demand passenger transport services (taxis and private hire vehicles) more sustainable and efficient, while ensuring the smooth functioning of the single market and addressing social and safety concerns.

    However, the existing local and national rules are obsolete, fragmented and often disproportionate. On many occasions, this results in travel requests not being fulfilled and creates barriers for drivers. It also limits passenger mobility and hinders the smooth development of a single market for digital and cross-border transport services.

    The Single Market Strategy 2025 acknowledges these challenges and states that the Commission will ‘envisage actions for applying EU single market rules and principles to the taxi and private hired vehicles sector’.

    In view of the above:

    • 1.What specific measures will the Commission adopt to achieve harmonised, fair, safe and sustainable access to these mobility services in all Member States, and to ensure legal certainty for drivers, passengers and platforms?
    • 2.How does it intend to avoid further fragmentation of the sector in the EU?

    Submitted: 4.6.2025

    Last updated: 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Authorisation and regulation of trade in brown bear meat in Slovakia and its impact on the conservation of the species – E-002224/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002224/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    César Luena (S&D)

    The Slovak Government has recently announced that restaurants will be authorised to serve meat from brown bears culled under a law that is legally questionable. The brown bear (Ursus arctos) is a threatened species in Europe and is strictly protected. Before the meat is put on the market, companies will have to obtain a certificate of derogation attesting to the ‘legality’ of the cull and the safety of the meat. The decision has led to concerns about its impact on the conservation of biodiversity and the sustainable management of this species.

    • 1.What is the Commission’s official position on the authorisation to sell meat from brown bears, which are protected in the EU, and Slovakia’s criteria for granting certificates of derogation for this trade?
    • 2.What mechanisms and controls are in place at EU level for the marketing of meat from a species that is strictly protected by the Habitats Directive?
    • 3.What are the Commission’s recommendations for managing the brown bear population where it poses a threat to humans, taking into account non-lethal alternatives and protection of the bears’ natural habitat?

    Submitted: 3.6.2025

    Last updated: 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Compliance with the rule of law in Spain amid the wave of legal proceedings regarding corruption – E-002213/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002213/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Dolors Montserrat (PPE)

    There are an increasing number of legal proceedings involving those closest to the Prime Minister of Spain: his wife, his brother, the organisational secretary of the ruling party, and several former high-ranking government officials are all implicated in alleged cases of corruption, influence peddling, misappropriation of public funds and irregularities related to public procurement.

    The most egregious examples include:

    – the charges brought against the Prosecutor General of Spain for politically-motivated leaks of confidential information;

    – the initiation of legal proceedings against the Prime Minister’s brother for misconduct and influence peddling;

    – suspected circumvention of the law to obtain special immunity for regional leaders facing charges;

    – the involvement of former ministerial officials in allegedly rigged public contracts;

    – and the possible use of institutional influence to favour those associated with the ruling party who are close to Sánchez.

    The principles of the rule of law, the separation of powers and accountability are under threat.

    • 1.Does the Commission plan to include an explicit warning in its Rule of Law Report about these signs of structural corruption connected to the Spanish Government, as well as a warning about possible political interference in the legal proceedings currently under way?

    Submitted: 3.6.2025

    Last updated: 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Plan for preventing unfair competition – E-002222/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002222/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Maria Grapini (S&D)

    The previous Commission proposed a reindustrialisation programme.

    Sadly, European industry is being seriously affected by competition from third countries, which are selling products from all sectors onto the EU market at dumping prices.

    One example is the ceramics industry. Ceramics production is in peril in my country, Romania, as well as in other Member States, after companies invested hundreds of millions of euro in modernisation because of the different conditions imposed on European producers as compared to those in Asia (who do not have to pay to meet CO2 certification or water purification requirements, and where workers do not enjoy working conditions based on social standards, etc.).

    My question is: Does the Commission have a plan for preventing unfair competition, to save the ceramics industry?

    Submitted: 3.6.2025

    Last updated: 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Commission roadmap for marine protected areas before the 2025 UN Ocean Conference – E-002263/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002263/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Emma Fourreau (The Left), Sebastian Everding (The Left), Luke Ming Flanagan (The Left), Anja Hazekamp (The Left)

    Under the EU action plan ‘Protecting and restoring marine ecosystems for sustainable and resilient fisheries’[1], Member States were invited to submit roadmaps by March 2024 detailing measures enabling them to meet the targets of the EU 2030 Biodiversity Strategy. Such documents are key to ensuring the health of marine ecosystems and a just transition towards fair and regenerative low-impact fisheries, in a context where scientific reports show that much more action is needed to protect the ocean.

    As reported by Oceana, Seas At Risk, and ClientEarth[2], 13 Member States have not yet submitted their roadmaps or are refusing to make them public. Although some Member States have made efforts within some marine protected areas (MPAs), none have committed to phasing out bottom trawling in MPAs.

    • 1.How will the Commission ensure that all Member States submit their national roadmaps?
    • 2.What action has the Commission taken to support a fair and just transition under the ‘Marine Action Plan’, while improving the level of protection and co-management of MPAs?
    • 3.How will the upcoming Ocean Pact contribute to improving the implementation and follow-up of the measures of the ‘Marine Action Plan’ within the context of the 2025 UN Ocean Conference?

    Submitted: 4.6.2025

    • [1] https://oceans-and-fisheries.ec.europa.eu/policy/common-fisheries-policy-cfp/action-plan-protecting-and-restoring-marine-ecosystems-sustainable-and-resilient-fisheries_en.
    • [2] https://europe.oceana.org/press-releases/multiple-eu-countries-are-failing-to-stop-destructive-fishing-in-protected-areas-analysis-finds-as-several-face-legal-action/.
    Last updated: 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Continuing lack of clarity relating to the working document on stoves – E-002220/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002220/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Beatrice Timgren (ECR), Charlie Weimers (ECR), Dick Erixon (ECR)

    In response to question E-001045/2025, the Commission stated that it would ensure that any changes made in connection with its review of the rules on solid fuel local space heaters would not have any negative effects.[1] The Commission also stated that it would ensure that any technical solutions would be compatible with manual operation of the appliance.

    The working document forming the background to the previously answered written question puts forward requirements for automatic combustion control systems. According to industry organisations, there is currently no scenario that would allow such a system to exist alongside manual operation of an appliance.

    With the above in mind:

    • 1.How will the Commission ensure that an automatic combustion control system is compatible with manual operation of appliances and, if manual operation proves impossible to reconcile with the proposed requirement for an automatic combustion control system, will it waive the requirement for such a system?
    • 2.How will the Commission ensure that the regulatory framework does not compel manufacturers to scale back the functionality of stoves?
    • 3.In view of the undertaking given in the answer to the question, will the Commission waive or modify other requirements set out in the working document, in particular as regards the limit value for carbon monoxide emissions?

    Submitted: 3.6.2025

    • [1] Changes to ecodesign requirements for stoves, E-001045/2025, https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-10-2025-001045_EN.html.
    Last updated: 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Consequences of the EU’s Waste Directive – E-002217/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002217/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Beatrice Timgren (ECR)

    Under Directive (EU) 2018/851, Member States are required to set up separate collections for textiles. The aim is to promote a more circular way of managing textile waste. In Sweden, the implementation of this requirement has already resulted in second-hand organisations being inundated with textiles. This is a problem because they do not have the storage space or the resources to deal with the volumes concerned. The organisations are warning that they are now receiving large quantities of clothes that are damaged or unusable.[1] Thanks to EU rules, shops are now forced to spend time and money on sorting large quantities of textiles and sending them for recycling.

    At the same time, local councils are warning that the textiles containers at recycling points are full to bursting. One council has now been forced to remove the containers because the collection firm cannot cope with the volumes.[2]

    In view of the above:

    • 1.What guidance are the Member States given on dealing with the practical challenges arising from municipal infrastructure being overwhelmed as a result of the Waste Directive?
    • 2.Has the Commission assessed the risk of second-hand organisations being overwhelmed with products that they cannot sell on, which is pushing costs up?
    • 3.What steps is the Commission taking to ward off the risk of second-hand organisations turning into waste-sorting centres, rather than operators that focus on re-use?

    Submitted: 3.6.2025

    • [1] https://www.sverigesradio.se/artikel/mer-skrap-till-second-hand-efter-nya-lagen-jattetrakigt
    • [2] https://www.tranastidning.se/2025-04-30/overfulla-behallare-efter-nya-lagen-nu-plockas-de-bort/
    Last updated: 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Lifting of economic sanctions against Syria – E-002149/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002149/2025/rev.1
    to the Council
    Rule 144
    Jean-Paul Garraud (PfE)

    On 20 May 2025, the European Union announced that it would be lifting its economic sanctions against Syria, while maintaining the sanctions against those related to the Assad regime. The objective given is to help the country rebuild after the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. However, the new Syrian President, Ahmed al-Charaa, also known as Abu Mohammed al-Joulani, is a former jihadist leader. He led the al-Nusra Front, Syria’s branch of Al-Qaeda, and then Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), considered a terrorist organisation by several countries. Despite this, Brussels has chosen to relax its position, raising questions about the coherence of EU policy, including on human rights and the fight against terrorism.

    • 1.How does the Council justify lifting economic sanctions against a government dominated by an organisation that the EU still classifies as a terrorist organisation?
    • 2.What guarantees can it provide to ensure that EU funds are not diverted to groups involved in human rights violations?
    • 3.Has it assessed the risk of the lifting of these sanctions strengthening actors hostile to European interests and undermining regional stability?

    Submitted: 28.5.2025

    Last updated: 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department Seeks to Shut Down Georgia Tax Preparer for Fabricating Expenses and Credits

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    Note: View complaint here.

    The Justice Department filed a complaint today to permanently bar tax preparer Tanja D. Hollis, of Griffin, Georgia, and her business, Tanja Tax Preparations LLC, from preparing federal tax returns for others.

    The complaint, filed in a federal court in Newnan, Georgia, alleges that Hollis prepared and filed false federal tax returns through Tanja Tax Preparations that understated her customers’ tax liabilities by reporting false or exaggerated business expenses and claiming tax credits for false education expenses.

    According to the complaint, despite knowing them to be false, Hollis prepared returns claiming business expenses for customers who did not own or operate a business and education expenses for customers who were not enrolled as students. The IRS interviewed Tanja Tax Preparations customers who said they did not give Hollis any reason to believe that the items reported on their returns were legitimate.

    The complaint alleges that, by repeatedly understating her customers’ tax liabilities, Hollis caused the United States to lose substantial tax revenue.

    In addition to a permanent injunction, the complaint asks the court to order Hollis to turn over the ill-gotten tax preparation fees she earned while preparing and filing fraudulent tax returns.

    Return preparer fraud is one of the IRS’ Dirty Dozen Tax Scams, and taxpayers seeking a return preparer should remain vigilant. The IRS has information on its website for choosing a tax preparer, launched a free directory of federal tax preparers, and offers information on how to avoid “ghost” tax preparers whose refusal to sign a return should be a red flag to taxpayers. The IRS also has a checklist of things to remember when filing income tax returns. In the past decade, the Tax Division has obtained injunctions against hundreds of unscrupulous tax preparers. Information about these cases is available on the Justice Department’s website. An alphabetical listing of persons enjoined from preparing returns and promoting tax schemes can be found here. If you believe that one of the enjoined persons or businesses may be violating an injunction, please contact the Tax Division with details.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Türkiye’s renewable power capacity to reach 38.2GW in 2035, forecasts GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Türkiye’s renewable power capacity to reach 38.2GW in 2035, forecasts GlobalData

    Posted in Power

    Türkiye boasts one of the world’s most rapidly expanding energy markets, driven by its robust economic growth. However, the country relies heavily on fossil and electricity imports to meet its domestic power demand. To reduce this dependency, the country is looking to expand is renewable capacity. In October 2024, Türkiye’s Ministry of Energy unveiled its 2035 roadmap for renewable energy. Against this backdrop, the country’s renewable power capacity is forecast to reach 38.2GW in 2035, registering a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17.1% during 2024-35, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    GlobalData’s latest report, “Turkey Power Market Outlook to 2035, Update 2025 – Market Trends, Regulations, and Competitive Landscape,” reveals that annual power generation in Türkiye is expected to increase at a CAGR of 8.6% during 2024-35 to reach 213.5TWh.

    Attaurrahman Ojindaram Saibasan, Senior Power Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Türkiye aims to quadruple its wind and solar capacity, targeting a goal of 120GW by 2035. To achieve this, the country plans to install between 7.5 and 8GW of renewable energy capacity annually, with an investment of $80 billion. The strategy includes the addition of at least 2GW of wind capacity each year through YEKA auctions, which  included 1.2GW of wind and 800MW of solar in the YEKA 2024 auction. Furthermore, the development of 5GW of offshore wind is targeted. These targets are expected to augment renewable power development.”

    Saibasan adds: “Türkiye’s increasing demand for power has been driven by the nation’s expanding GDP and population growth, with projections indicating a continued upward trend. As the primary source of power generation in Türkiye, thermal power—predominantly derived from natural gas, followed by hard coal and lignite—plays a crucial role.”

    However, Türkiye’s domestic fossil fuel resources are limited, necessitating a heavy reliance on imported fuels to satisfy its energy needs, including those for power generation. According to Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Türkiye, approximately 74% of Turkey’s energy requirements are met through imports. The country sources natural gas from Russia, Iran, Azerbaijan, Algeria, and Nigeria, while its crude oil imports primarily come from Iraq, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Colombia, Kazakhstan, and Nigeria.

    Saibasan concludes: “To overcome the challenge, the country has placed focus on nuclear and renewable power. Within the renewable power segment, solar PV constituted nearly 51.3% of the total renewable power capacity followed by onshore wind, accounting for 32.9% in 2024. The country is looking to add offshore wind into its capacity mix by 2032. In the Offshore Wind Roadmap, Türkiye has established a goal of achieving 5GW of installed capacity for offshore wind power by 2035.”

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Influencers hail Nvidia-Mistral partnership as game-change for European tech, reveals GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Influencers hail Nvidia-Mistral partnership as game-change for European tech, reveals GlobalData

    Posted in Business Fundamentals

    NVIDIA Corp (NVIDIA) has announced a significant partnership with French startup Mistral AI to build “Mistral Compute,” a powerful new AI cloud infrastructure. While influencers have universally praised the scale of the initiative, which will deploy tens of thousands of GPUs, influencers see it as a monumental win for both European AI sovereignty and the US-led open-source movement, reveals the Social Media Analytics Platform of GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    Smitarani Tripathy, Social Media Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Influencers lauded the partnership for creating an integrated AI stack that will massively increase AI compute capacity. However, a clear divergence emerged in their analysis. Some framed the deal as a game-changer for European tech, emphasizing the creation of a ‘Sovereign AI infrastructure.’ Also, a few others saw it as a ‘massive win for America,’ suggesting that open models running on US chips could become the global template.”

    Below are a few popular influencers opinions captured by GlobalData’s Social Media Analytics Platform:

    1. Ray Wang, Technologist:

    “1) One of the key partnerships announced is between Nvidia and French startup Mistral, which will build an “AI cloud” that will deploy 18,000 Nvidia Grace Blackwell chips. This will allow businesses to develop and use AI through Mistral’s models, Nvidia said. 2) In Germany, Nvidia said it is building what it has dubbed as an “industrial cloud” that will feature 10,000 GPUs and will be specifically designed to provide services for European manufacturers.”

    1. Paul Murphy, Partner at Lightspeed:

    “Our @lightspeedvp  portfolio company @MistralAI ‘s next big move – Mistral Compute 18,000 NVIDIA Grace Blackwell chips, 10x increase in EU AI compute capacity over 2 years. Sovereign AI infrastructure, game changing for European tech! ”

    1. Beth Kindig, Lead Tech Analyst at I/O Fund :

    “Mistral and Nvidia $NVDA are partnering to create Mistral Compute, offering customers a private and integrated AI stack spanning GPUs, orchestration, APIs, products and services, with “tens of thousands” of GPUs available..”

    1. Anjney Midha, General Partner @ a16z:

    “”Today we’re announcing we’re going to build an AI cloud together with @MistralAI”  Jensen @nvidia GTC today unveiling Mistral Compute This is a massive win for America and for open source Open models on US chips wil be the template for AI infrastructure buildouts globally.”

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government must retain and retrain Alexander Dennis workers

    Source: Scottish Greens

    13 Jun 2025 Economy Transport

    The workers whose jobs are at risk must be protected by our governments

    More in Economy

    The Scottish and UK governments must take immediate actions to retain the highly skilled workforce from Alexander Dennis if their factories in Falkirk and Lambert close, the Scottish Greens have said.

    Writing to the Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes, Mark Ruskell MSP said that the closure put 400 direct jobs at risk, and up to 1,600 more indirectly in the wider Falkirk and Grangemouth area. 

    Speaking after sending the letter, Mr Ruskell said:

    “The factories in Falkirk and Lambert are putting electric buses on roads across Europe. Their closure would be a devastating blow to local communities at a time when our green economy should be booming.

    “Manufacturing could continue here profitably for years to come, and the Government must leave no stone unturned to keep them working. But if their owners are determined to move, then Ministers need to recognise the importance that retaining a skilled workforce has for Scotland’s future.

    “We recognised this at Grangemouth, and when the refinery closed Forth Valley College received funding to offer support and training. This helped keep these essential skills in our communities and economy.

    “The First Minister has said he’ll do “everything he can” to support the workers. But we must now see those words transform into action with a proper plan, community and trade union involvement, and significant investment. To do anything else would be a betrayal of Scotland’s future.”

    Text of letter sent to DFM Kate Forbes by Mark Ruskell

    Dear Deputy First Minister,  

    I write to you following the news that bus manufacturer Alexander Dennis, which has 
    factories in Falkirk and Larbert, announced that it was considering moving 
    manufacturing to a site in Scarborough.

    This decision is a further devastating blow to hundreds of workers and to a community 
    that already feels like it has been abandoned following job losses at the nearby INEOS 
    site in Grangemouth. 

    From conversations with Unite the Union representatives there is understandable worry 
    around the uncertainty and many of their members want answers and action from their 
    elected representatives.

    The workers from ALD, similarly to those from Grangemouth, could have a crucial role to 
    play in our green future. But warm words alone about a just transition won’t pay the 
    bills, it needs investment, and it needs a proper plan. To achieve our climate targets, we 
    must retain the workers, and urgently upscale their knowledge and skills needed to 
    deliver them. 

    I believe that there is life in the current Falkirk and Larbert sites, and that manufacturing 
    in Scotland can continue for many years to come. However, if the Canadian owned firm 
    have their sights set on England, then I would hope that the Scottish and UK 
    Governments would support workers at risk of redundancy with skills and training.

    These workers are highly skilled and have an important contribution to make locally and 
    nationally. 
     
    Forth Valley College has received funding from the Scottish and UK Governments to 
    support the Grangemouth workers and this should be no different for those employed 
    by Alexander Dennis. For every job in bus manufacturing, it is estimated that there is a 
    multiplier of three to four jobs in the wider supply chain and support services. The 
    closure announcement on this basis put up to 1,600 jobs at risk in the wider Falkirk and 
    Grangemouth area. 

    I hope that Ministers will work with the trade unions to retain jobs and skills in the 
    community and to ensure that it is workers and local people who are leading the 
    process.  

    Could I ask when the Government is planning to meet with workers and trade unions? It 
    would be beneficial to get all parties round the table, including the current employers, 
    to explore the next steps. 

    Kind regards, 

    Mark Ruskell MSP 
    MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada attends the 2025 United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3)

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    June 13, 2025

    Nice, France – Canada’s oceans are facing increasing impacts from climate change, including species decline, biodiversity loss, ecosystem degradation, harm from aquatic invasive species, illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, and the effects from waste and other pollutants. In response to these challenges, Canada is collaborating internationally with maritime nations across the globe to better protect our oceans for present and future generations.

    From June 9-13, Fisheries and Oceans Canada led the Canadian delegation at the 2025 United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3), which took place in Nice, France. During the Conference, Canada led on a series of events including:

    • An Ocean Action Panel co-chaired with Palau, leading thoughtful discussions on advancing sustainable ocean governance, conservation and responsible use of marine resources for our shared global oceans.
    • An Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing Action Alliance (IUU-AA) event to reinforce the importance of transparency while improving efforts to govern, enforce and work with international partners to combat IUU fishing. As the current chair of the IUU Fishing Action Alliance, Canada recognizes the challenges of IUU fishing and its devastating impacts on fish stocks, ecosystems and economies around the world. 
    • The launch of a High Ambition Coalition for a Quiet Ocean, co-led alongside Panama, which was endorsed by 35 other countries. This Coalition marks a significant global commitment to reduce ocean noise, a key threat to ecosystem health and marine biodiversity around the world.

    Canada also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the United Kingdom to strengthen our long history of cooperation on the sustainable use of marine resources, ocean protection and preservation, and ocean science.

    By continuing to collaborate with international partners to better understand the environmental changes we are seeing in the global ocean and create more economic opportunities for coastal and inland communities, Canada can help contribute to a more sustainable and prosperous blue economy for all.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: Trusted Crypto Casinos Are Taking Over Online Gambling in 2025: Exclusive Report By Radcred

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Glendale, CA, June 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Independent Research Report Shows Why Licence-Backed, Instant-Pay Blockchain Sites Outpace Legacy Casinos

     Trust, not gimmicks, now decides where U.S. players place their crypto chips. Radcred’s Crypto-Casino Research Report scrutinized more than 200 digital-currency gambling sites, stress-testing everything from licensing to ledger speed. The audit confirms that total bet volume doubled to $26 billion in Q1 2025, while payout disputes fell by 38 per cent at operators meeting tier-one compliance and provably fair standards. 

    Only a few platforms earned Radcred’s coveted Gold Trust accreditation; dozens were rejected for opaque bonus rules, slow withdrawals, or missing security protocols.Together, these findings outline the benchmarks that separate the best crypto casinos 2025 from the rest of the market.

    How Crypto Casinos Are Revolutionising Online Gambling

    The digital gambling scenario is undergoing a seismic shift as blockchain technology fundamentally transforms the way players interact with online casinos. Unlike traditional platforms that rely on centralized systems and legacy banking infrastructure, crypto casinos are redefining transparency, speed, and global accessibility by utilizing distributed ledger technology.

    Immutable Gaming Records 
    Every bet, game outcome, and payout is permanently recorded on-chain, creating an unalterable audit trail that players can independently verify. This eliminates the opacity of traditional casinos that store critical game data in private, centralized databases.

    Provably Fair Gaming 
    Cryptographic algorithms enable players to validate results in real time—crucial for anyone seeking provably fair crypto games.. This revolutionary approach allows independent verification of outcomes, removing the need to trust casino operators blindly.

    Instant Settlement Times 

    Withdrawals typically clear within 5-15 minutes; the fastest test result came from an instant-withdrawal Bitcoin casino at just 4.9 minutes, compared to traditional casinos that may take days for international transfers. This speed advantage is particularly pronounced for weekend transactions when traditional banking systems are often offline.

    Elimination of Payment Processors 
    Direct peer-to-peer transfers remove the need for third-party payment processors and their associated fees and delays. This streamlined approach reduces transaction costs while dramatically improving processing speeds.

    24/7 Global Accessibility 
    Blockchain networks operate continuously, allowing players worldwide to access gambling services regardless of local banking hours or weekend restrictions. This constant availability particularly benefits international players who previously faced significant barriers with traditional payment methods.

    Detailed Casino findings are available in Radcred’s full 2025 report.

    Game Selection at the Top Crypto Casinos

    Leading sites now bundle 5,000+ RNG titles, live-dealer studios, crash games, and on-chain originals providing the variety legacy brands need years to match. BitStarz alone adds 200 new releases monthly, while Jackbit’s slot lobby covers every volatility tier from low-risk warm-ups to fast-paying crypto casino jackpot chasers.

    1) Slots
    Crypto sites host thousands of slot titles, from three-reel classics to video machines loaded with Megaways, cascading reels, and progressive jackpots. Fan favourites such as Sweet Bonanza and Book of Dead sit alongside exclusive Bitcoin-themed slots, most posting return-to-player rates near 95-97 %. Spin wagers typically start at $0.10, yet pooled jackpots can climb into six figures.

    2) Table Games
    Core staples include blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and multiple poker variants. European roulette carries the lower house edge (2.7 %) versus its double-zero American cousin, while crypto blackjack often supports perfect-strategy RTPs above 99 %. Minimum bets hover around $1, but VIP tables raise limits well past $5,000.

    3) Live Dealer Tables
    Live studios stream in 4K from providers such as Evolution and Pragmatic Play, pairing professional croupiers with real-time chat. Options span live blackjack, speed roulette, Andar Bahar, and game-show formats like Crazy Time or Monopoly Live. Entry stakes can be as low as $0.20.

    4) Provably Fair Originals
    Blockchain titles—Crash, Dice, Mines, and Plinko—let players verify every result through on-chain hashes. The transparency appeals to trust-minded users, while lightning-fast rounds give the genre an arcade feel. Typical wagers range from a few cents to several hundred dollars.

    5) Specialty Games
    Light-hearted picks such as keno, bingo, scratch cards, and virtual sports round out the lobby. Tickets often cost under $1, deliver instant outcomes, and require no complex rules—ideal for a quick session between bigger bets.

    6) Sports & eSports Betting
    Many crypto platforms include full sportsbooks covering NFL, NBA, soccer, UFC, and eSports titles like CS:GO and League of Legends. Odds are priced in BTC or USDT, and same-wallet payouts hit accounts within minutes after matches settle.

    7) Poker Rooms & Tournaments
    Dedicated poker lobbies run cash tables, sit-and-go’s, and multi-table events with buy-ins from $1 to $10,000. Players join anonymously and withdraw chips directly to their wallets once play ends.

    8) Crash & Multiplier Games
    Titles such as Aviator, Bustabit, and JetX let users cash out before a rising line “crashes.” RTPs hover above 99 %, and rounds last under ten seconds, popular with bankroll builders seeking quick swings.

    9) Lottery & Jackpot Draws
    Daily crypto lotteries and hourly jackpot wheels sell tickets for a few satoshis. Prize pools grow block-by-block, draws are blockchain-verifiable, and winnings pay out instantly to the player’s wallet.

    List of Top Games Reviewed by Radcred Experts

    Legal Landscape of Crypto Casinos (U.S. & Global)

    While no federal statute outlaws crypto wagering, state-by-state rules vary. Offshore platforms licensed in Curaçao, Malta, or the Isle of Man can legally accept American traffic, yet players should verify state restrictions before depositing. Europe is moving toward unified licence classes, and Asia-Pacific regulators are drafting sandbox frameworks to balance innovation and consumer protection.

    How Players Use Crypto Casinos

    • Bankroll building: Players grind low-stake slots to clear bonuses, then switch to provably fair       dice for high-volatility bursts.
     
    • Anonymity seekers: Privacy-minded users favour no-KYC crypto casino accounts tied to self-custody wallets.

    • High rollers: VIPs capitalise on daily cashback ladders and wager-back rebates that would be impossible under fiat-card fees.

    Bonuses and Promotions at Crypto Casinos

    Welcome packages have exploded—some platforms tout 500 % matches worth $10,000 plus 500 free spins. Radcred’s audit focuses on rollover fairness: any deal above 40×, with max-win caps mirroring deposit size, is flagged. Ongoing perks—reload boosts, rakeback, and loyalty NFTs now rival sign-up deals for overall value.

    Welcome Bonuses
    First deposits routinely trigger 100 %–325 % matches, often capped at 5 BTC (or 50,000 USDT) and bundled with 50–250 free spins. Wagering is usually 20×–40× on the bonus—or occasionally on “deposit + bonus,” so reading the terms is non-negotiable.

    No-Deposit Bonuses
    A handful of trusted crypto casinos drop tiny crypto credits (0.0002–0.001 BTC) or 10–50 free spins just for signing up. Great for testing the lobby, but expect steeper rollover—typically 40×–60×—and modest cash-out caps around 0.005 BTC.

    Reload Bonuses
    Weekly or VIP reloads add 25 %–100 % to subsequent top-ups, usually worth $50–$300 in coin value. Wagering mirrors welcome offers (20×–40×), though elite tiers may see requirements cut in half.

    Cashback Deals
    Loss rebates of 5 %–20 % appear daily or weekly. The better platforms credit these funds wager-free; others attach a light 10×–20× roll-through before withdrawals unlock.

    Free Spins
    Blocks of 10–200 spins (valued at $0.10–$0.50 each) accompany welcome, reload, or new-game promos. Spin winnings usually face 20×–45× wagering and may top out at roughly $100 in withdrawable value.

    Loyalty & VIP Programs
    Long-term play earns points that escalate through bronze-to-diamond tiers. Perks scale from birthday spins to 40 % rakeback, higher withdrawal ceilings, physical gifts, and 24/7 concierge hosts often with no extra wagering attached, though unused bonus chips expire after 30–90 days.

    Full bonus data appears in the 2025 Radcred report

    Crypto-Gambling Trends to Watch in 2025

    Crypto-gambling is evolving fast, blending blockchain innovation with high-stakes entertainment. From Bitcoin betting platforms to NFT-based rewards, U.S. players are seeing more secure, fast, and anonymous ways to play. Here’s a look at the biggest trends shaping the future of online crypto casinos this year.

    AI-Powered Personalization

    Advanced artificial intelligence algorithms are revolutionizing player experiences by analyzing behavior patterns, game preferences, and betting habits to deliver tailored recommendations and dynamic bonuses. These systems enhance engagement while providing early warnings for problematic gambling behaviors.

    Instant Withdrawals and Lightning Transactions

    Crypto casinos are prioritizing sub-10-minute withdrawal speeds, with a few platforms processing Bitcoin withdrawals in under 12 minutes. This trend addresses traditional banking delays and attracts players seeking immediate access to winnings.

    NFT Integration and Tokenized Rewards

    Non-fungible tokens are being incorporated as in-game rewards, collectibles, and play-to-earn mechanisms. This creates new revenue streams and adds digital ownership elements to traditional gambling experiences.

    Decentralized Casinos and Web3 Adoption

    Blockchain-powered platforms are eliminating centralized control through smart contracts, offering provably fair games and transparent operations. These decentralized systems provide enhanced player autonomy and reduced operational costs.

    Mobile-First Crypto Gaming

    With over 59% of gaming activity occurring on mobile devices, operators are prioritizing mobile-optimized crypto gambling experiences. This includes seamless crypto wallet integration and touch-friendly interfaces designed for smartphones.

    Why Crypto Casinos Are the Top Choice of Players

    The digital gambling revolution has positioned crypto casinos as the preferred destination for modern players worldwide. With a market that has surged to $250 million and witnessed an 83.6% increase in crypto bets in 2024, these platforms are redefining player expectations through superior technology, enhanced privacy, and unprecedented convenience.

    Identity Protection

    Wallet addresses replace names and card numbers, so breaches or charge-back fraud can’t touch you. End-to-end encryption keeps every spin or hand tied only to a hash—not your personal details.

    No KYC Hassles

    Most leading sites skip document uploads entirely. You register with an email, set a wallet, and play in under a minute—eliminating the data-sharing risk many mainstream gamblers now avoid.

    Instant Deposits & Withdrawals

    On-chain transfers settle in 5-15 minutes; benchmark brand CoinCasino routinely clocks Bitcoin cash-outs below 15. Weekends or bank holidays no longer freeze bankrolls.

    Minimal Fees

    With processors removed, network costs often fall below $1, and some operators cover them. That translates to more spins, bets, or hands from the same budget.

    Provably Fair Games

    Roughly 77 percent of crypto casinos publish hashed server/client seeds. Anyone can verify randomness after every round, reinforcing trust without third-party auditors.

    Super-Charged Bonuses

    Welcome deals reach 500 percent plus hundreds of free spins. Reloads, daily rakeback, and loyalty NFTs push total promo value far past what fiat sites offer.

    VIP Treatment

    Tiered programs award up to 40 percent cashback, higher withdrawal caps, dedicated hosts, and even luxury trips for high rollers—perks unlocked through transparent point systems, not opaque invitations.

    How Crypto Casinos Are Evaluated

    Evaluating crypto casinos means looking beyond flashy bonuses. U.S. players prioritize secure blockchain payments, fair game mechanics, fast withdrawals, and strong user reputations. With more platforms entering the space, understanding how these casinos are evaluated helps players find trustworthy and rewarding experiences in the growing world of crypto gambling.

    • Licence & Jurisdiction Verification –  Analysts cross-reference licence numbers with regulators in Malta, Curaçao, and the Isle of Man, checking disciplinary dockets for unresolved complaints. Sites without a publicly searchable certificate or those linked to dormant holding companies are excluded immediately, preventing unsafe operators from reaching readers.
    • Provably Fair Confirmation –  Every in-house slot, roulette wheel, or dice game is hashed against its server seed, client seed, and nonce. Radcred reruns thousands of rounds to ensure the outcome history matches blockchain-published randomness proofs, hard evidence that no hidden code tilts results.
    • On-Chain Transaction Speed Audit – Deposits and withdrawals are executed every six hours for a week. Analysts log confirmation counts, network fees, and manual-review delays. Platforms clearing cash-out requests in under ten minutes on at least 95 percent of attempts score the highest.
    • Security & Privacy Controls – Evaluation covers mandatory two-factor authentication, SSL/TLS strength, DDoS mitigation, and cold wallet segregation. Zero-knowledge KYC methods, where available, receive bonus credit for minimizing identity exposure while still complying with anti-money laundering regulations.
    • Bonus-Term Transparency –  Fine print is dissected for wagering multipliers, game exclusions, and maximum-win caps. Operators hiding key conditions below the fold, or inflating advertised bonus value through unrealistic rollover hurdles, are penalised.

    Visit Casino Sites Researched by Radcred’s Experts

    Why Radcred Is Your Trustworthy Crypto-Casino Radar?

    The modern crypto-gambling scenario demands reliable guidance through countless platforms and endless promotional claims. Radcred emerges as your definitive compass, cutting through industry noise to deliver transparent, merit-based casino evaluations that prioritize player protection over profit margins.

    Comprehensive Platform Testing 

    Radcred’s team conducts rigorous 7-day real-money testing sessions across multiple crypto casinos, evaluating everything from deposit speeds to withdrawal reliability during peak and off-peak hours. This hands-on approach ensures authentic insights rather than surface-level promotional content that plagues many review sites.

    Transparent Scoring Methodology 

    Unlike biased platforms that accept upfront payments from casinos, Radcred maintains editorial independence by utilizing merit-based evaluation criteria, including licensing verification, payout speeds, and responsiveness to customer service. Their 4.3-star average rating system reflects genuine user experiences rather than inflated promotional scores.

    Security-First Assessment 

    Every reviewed platform undergoes thorough security audits, examining SSL encryption standards, regulatory compliance, and data protection measures to ensure player safety. Radcred’s commitment to 256-bit encryption standards and fraud prevention education demonstrates their dedication to consumer protection over affiliate commissions.

    Real-Time Market Intelligence 

    The platform continuously monitors crypto casino developments, tracking regulatory changes, bonus structure modifications, and industry trends to provide up-to-date recommendations. This dynamic approach ensures players receive current, actionable information rather than outdated reviews that could lead to poor platform choices.

    Community-Verified Feedback  

    Radcred integrates verified player testimonials and community-driven insights, creating a comprehensive feedback ecosystem that highlights both positive experiences and potential red flags across different crypto gambling platforms.

     SEE HOW RADCRED SCORES YOUR FAVORITE CASINO SITE

    Safe Crypto Casino Actionable Tips

    Even with professional rankings, personal due diligence remains vital. Use the following four rules as a pre-deposit checklist.

    • Verify Licence Details in Regulator Databases –  If a licence number fails to populate official records or the corporate entity name differs from the site’s footer, treat it as a red flag.
    • Stress-Test Customer Support – Send a basic payout question before making a deposit. A sub-five-minute human response often predicts smoother conflict resolution later.
    • Scrutinise Bonus T&Cs –  Rollover above 40×, limited game eligibility, or maximum win caps that equal the deposit can erode perceived generosity.
    • Enable Two-Factor Authentication Immediately –  Phishing remains rampant. Hardware-key or app-based 2FA blocks account takeovers that simple passwords cannot.

    Conclusion

    Trust-centric design, verifiable randomness, and license-backed operations are pushing crypto casinos from fringe curiosity to mainstream entertainment. Radcred’s 2025 research report shows that when transparency meets speed, players follow. Relying on independent audits, free safety tools, and clear regulatory guidance, U.S. gamblers can enjoy blockchain wagering without unnecessary risk or confusion.

    FAQs

    Are crypto casinos legit?
    Crypto casinos operate in a legal gray area in the U.S., with legitimacy varying by state. Platforms licensed by authorities such as Curaçao or Malta are generally considered safe. However, U.S. federal laws create uncertainty, so always verify a casino’s license and check your state’s online gambling regulations before playing.

    Is it possible to win big at a crypto casino?
    Big wins are absolutely possible; some players have won millions of dollars. Games with high RTPs and smart bankroll strategies can improve odds. However, gambling is risky by nature, and winning isn’t guaranteed. Play responsibly and never wager more than you can afford to lose.

    How to find the best crypto casino online?
    Look for licensed platforms offering secure logins, fast payouts, and thousands of games. Check for fair bonus terms and crypto support. User reviews on sites like Trustpilot and Reddit can offer honest feedback. Reputable names like JACKBIT, BitStarz, and 7Bit are strong, proven options.

    How to verify the trustworthiness of cryptocurrency casinos?
    Verify proper licensing and conduct third-party audits by reputable bodies, such as iTech Labs or eCOGRA. Trustworthy sites use SSL encryption, offer provably fair games, and have responsive customer support. Always read genuine player reviews and be cautious of platforms with unclear terms, fake reviews, or delayed payouts.

    Disclaimer

    This material is for informational purposes only and does not constitute gambling advice or an invitation to wager. Online gaming may be illegal in some jurisdictions and involves financial risk. Always verify local laws, set personal limits, and seek help via the National Council on Problem Gambling helpline at 1-800-522-4700.

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