Category: Europe

MIL-OSI Russia: China will not allow any force to turn Taiwan into “hell” – official representative

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

BEIJING, May 28 (Xinhua) — State Council Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Chen Binhua said Wednesday that Taiwan is China’s Taiwan and the country will not allow any force to turn the island into a “hell.”

He made the statement in response to a media request to comment on a recent statement by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, in which he proposed strengthening Taiwan’s “self-defense capabilities” to intimidate mainland China, as well as a statement by the US military about a plan to create a “hellish picture” on the island.

The Taiwan issue is China’s internal affair and does not allow outside interference, Chen Binhua stressed, noting that some people in the United States are inflating tensions in the Taiwan Strait as a pretext for interfering in Taiwan affairs to help the U.S. military-industrial complex make profits. Their actions will sow chaos in Taiwan and the island’s people will be used as “cannon fodder,” Chen Binhua warned.

He called on the US to strictly abide by the one-China principle and the provisions of the three China-US joint communiques, stop sending wrong signals to separatist forces advocating “Taiwan independence”, so as to avoid escalating tensions in the Taiwan Strait.

He also criticized the Democratic Progressive Party administration in Taiwan for putting the people of Taiwan in a dangerous situation by closely following the US agenda for its own selfish political interests. -0-

MIL OSI Russia News –

May 29, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Wang Huning Calls on CPPCC to Play Role of Special Advisory Body in Upcoming 15th Five-Year Plan

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, May 28 (Xinhua) — Wang Huning, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), called on the CPPCC to fulfill its responsibilities in formulating and implementing the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030).

Wang Huning made the remarks while presiding over the 36th meeting of the chairman and vice-chairmen of the 14th CPPCC National Committee.

Wang Huning called on the CPPCC to play its role as a special advisory body and deeply understand the importance of formulating and implementing the next five-year plan.

Five-year plans serve as key strategic documents guiding China’s medium- and long-term development. They set out national goals, major tasks, and policy directions in various sectors for each five-year period.

Wang Huning also called on CPPCC members to provide advice and suggestions on further comprehensively deepening reform and advancing China’s modernization, and promote the implementation of the major decisions and plans of the Party and the country.

Political advisers should continuously deepen their study and implement the Eight-Point Rules, Wang Huning said, adding that the CPPCC National Committee should make conscientious preparations to organize various events related to foreign affairs so as to better serve the overall foreign policy work of the Party and the country.

At this meeting, draft amendments to the CPPCC National Committee’s rules on consultative work and the general provisions of the special committees of the CPPCC National Committee were also considered and adopted. -0-

MIL OSI Russia News –

May 29, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Orders from US buyers rise significantly after China-US trade talks: Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman

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, May 28 (Xinhua) — Since China and the United States held economic and trade talks in Geneva earlier this month, trade tensions between the two countries have eased, orders from U.S. buyers have increased significantly and shipping services are operating at full capacity, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said Wednesday.

“This fully reflects the major mutual needs of each side,” Mao Ning said at a regular departmental press conference.

Mao Ning’s statement followed comments made by Michael Hart, president of the American Chamber of Commerce in China, at the Global Trade and Investment Promotion Summit in Beijing last week, in which Hart noted that China is both an important market for American goods and an important supplier of goods to the United States.

The essence of China-US trade and economic relations is mutual benefit and win-win, Mao Ning said, adding that trade and economic cooperation between the world’s two largest economies has brought tangible benefits to enterprises and consumers in both countries.

Protectionism leads nowhere, Mao Ning continued, saying that China welcomes foreign enterprises, including American ones, to develop their businesses in China, deepen mutual cooperation, and jointly create favorable opportunities for a bright future. -0-

MIL OSI Russia News –

May 29, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: China’s State Council to Oversee Investigation into East China Chemical Plant Explosion

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, May 28 (Xinhua) — The Industrial Safety Commission of the State Council will oversee the investigation into an explosion that occurred at a chemical plant in eastern China’s Shandong Province, the Ministry of Emergency Management said Wednesday.

The incident, which left five people dead and six missing, occurred in Gaomi City on Tuesday.

The committee called for a thorough investigation to establish the cause of the explosion and bring those responsible to justice in accordance with laws and regulations.

The Industrial Safety Committee, together with the Office of the National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Commission, called on relevant departments and companies to learn from recent incidents, strengthen safety risk prevention during the upcoming Duanwu national holiday, and take decisive measures to prevent major incidents. –0–

MIL OSI Russia News –

May 29, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Mainland China reaffirms commitment to cross-strait exchanges and cooperation

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, May 28 (Xinhua) — The Chinese mainland will continue to actively promote cross-Strait exchanges and cooperation in the interests of compatriots on both sides, Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, said at a briefing on Wednesday.

Chen Binhua noted that the mainstream public opinion in Taiwan, which advocates peace, development, exchanges and cooperation, cannot be ignored. “The desire of people on both sides of the Strait to increase exchanges and the enthusiasm of Taiwan compatriots to participate in the Taiwan Strait Forum and other similar events cannot be suppressed,” he said.

According to him, preparatory work for the 17th Taiwan Strait Forum is currently in full swing, the specific agenda of which will be announced in the coming days, Chen Binhua said, stressing that the forum has already been held 16 times since 2009 and has become an important platform for promoting exchanges and cooperation between the two sides of the strait.

Chen Binhua criticized Taiwan’s Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) administration for imposing restrictions on Taiwanese people’s participation in the forum, calling it another attempt to obstruct cross-strait exchanges.

“This once again demonstrates their malicious intent to suppress cross-shore exchanges and proves that Lai Qingde’s statements about his readiness to engage with the Chinese mainland are nothing but lies and empty talk,” he said. -0-

MIL OSI Russia News –

May 29, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: China to issue new local government bonds worth about 1.5 trillion yuan in January-April 2025

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, May 28 (Xinhua) — Local governments across China issued new bonds worth about 1.49 trillion yuan (about 207.63 billion U.S. dollars) in the first four months of this year, data released by the Ministry of Finance showed Wednesday.

The volume of targeted bonds issued amounted to over 1.19 trillion yuan, while ordinary bonds amounted to 302.3 billion yuan.

As of the end of April, the remaining debt obligations of local governments across the country amounted to about 50.69 trillion yuan, according to data from the aforementioned department.

China plans to take more proactive financial policies this year to support sustainable economic and social development. According to the government work report released this year, the country plans to issue 4.4 trillion yuan of local government bonds this year, up 500 billion yuan from the previous year. -0-

MIL OSI Russia News –

May 29, 2025
MIL-OSI: Kalle Virtanen appointed Oma Savings Bank’s Chief Operating Officer and member of the management team

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

OMA SAVINGS BANK PLC, STOCK EXCHANGE RELEASE 28 MAY 2025 AT 17.00 PM CHANGES IN BOARD/MANAGEMENT/AUDITORS

Kalle Virtanen appointed Oma Savings Bank’s Chief Operating Officer and member of the management team

Oma Savings Bank Plc (OmaSp or the company) has appointed Kalle Virtanen (L.LM, trained on the Bench, L.LM (Stockholm) and CEFA) Chief Operating Officer (COO) and member of the management team. Virtanen will start in his position on 1 August 2025.

Chief Operating Officer (COO) is a new role within OmaSp and the unit lead by Virtanen will be responsible for OmaSp’s retail and corporate banking support functions such as back-office and financial crime prevention. Kalle Virtanen focuses particularly on enhancing the bank’s operational efficiency and, through that, improving the customer experience.

Virtanen has over 25 years of experience in banking and finance, and he has held several expert and business leadership roles in the sector. Virtanen has most recently worked as EY’s Financial Services Law practice lead in Finland and before that in Nordea.

”Our transformation journey continues. We have significantly strengthened our resources in regulatory compliance, risk management, and back-office functions — all critical areas in banking — and have recruited new professionals for key roles. We are very pleased to welcome an experienced and capable leader like Kalle to our team to help further develop OmaSp operations. Kalle’s strong leadership and expertise are exactly what we need at this stage,” says Karri Alameri, OmaSp CEO.

“OmaSp is a well-capitalized bank, its staff is active, and OmaSp has a nationwide network for meeting and serving customers. I look forward to the upcoming tasks and collaboration with new colleagues and stakeholders with interest and enthusiasm,” says Kalle Virtanen.

The appointment is subject to the Finnish Financial Supervisory Authority’s approval of the fit and proper assessment concerning Virtanen.

Oma Savings Bank Plc

Additional information:
Karri Alameri, CEO, tel. +358 45 656 5250, karri.alameri@omasp.fi

Distribution:

Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd
Major media
www.omasp.fi

OmaSp is a solvent and profitable Finnish bank. About 600 professionals provide nationwide services through OmaSp’s 48 branch offices and digital service channels to over 200,000 private and corporate customers. OmaSp focuses primarily on retail banking operations and provides its clients with a broad range of banking services both through its own balance sheet as well as by acting as an intermediary for its partners’ products. The intermediated products include credit, investment and loan insurance products. OmaSp is also engaged in mortgage banking operations.

OmaSp core idea is to provide personal service and to be local and close to its customers, both in digital and traditional channels. OmaSp strives to offer premium level customer experience through personal service and easy accessibility. In addition, the development of the operations and services is customer-oriented. The personnel is committed and OmaSp seeks to support their career development with versatile tasks and continuous development. A substantial part of the personnel also own shares in OmaSp.

The MIL Network –

May 29, 2025
MIL-OSI: EMGS: Notice of Annual General Meeting
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Notice is hereby given of the annual general meeting of Electromagnetic Geoservices ASA (“EMGS” or the “Company”). The annual general meeting will be held at the Company’s offices in Karenslyst Allé 4, 4(th) floor, 0278 Oslo, Norway on 19 June 2025 at 12:00 CEST.

The calling notice is attached to this stock exchange notification, and will, together with all appendixes, the Company’s annual report for 2024, and the remuneration report for 2024 be published on the Company’s webpage www.emgs.com.

Contact
Anders Eimstad, Chief Financial Officer, +47 94 82 58 36

About EMGS
EMGS, the marine EM market leader, uses its proprietary electromagnetic (EM) technology to support oil and gas companies in their search for offshore hydrocarbons. EMGS supports each stage in the workflow, from survey design and data acquisition to processing and interpretation. The Company’s services enable the integration of EM data with seismic and other geophysical and geological information to give explorationists a clearer and more complete understanding of the subsurface. This improves exploration efficiency and reduces risks and the finding costs per barrel. CSEM technology can also be used to detect the presence of marine mineral deposits (primarily Seabed Massive Sulphides) and EMGS believes that the technology can also be used to estimate the mineral content of such deposits. The Company is undertaking early-stage initiatives to position itself in this future market.

This information is subject of the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.

Attachment
- Calling notice EMGS 2025 AGM
The MIL Network –
May 29, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Chair of the NATO Military Committee attends the 18th Balkan Countries Chief of Defence Conference in Istanbul

Source: NATO

The Chair of the NATO Military Committee (CMC), attended the 18th Balkan Countries CHODs Conference in İstanbul. Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone’s first appearance at this forum marks also his first visit to Türkiye.

The conference, hosted at the Multinational Joint Warfare Centre (MJWC) by the Chief of Turkish General Staff General Metin Gürak, included discussions on ways to strengthen peace, security, and military cooperation. It gathered the CHODs, high level authorities and senior military officials from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Greece, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Türkiye, Croatia, and Slovenia. Participants were addressed by the Vice President of Türkiye, Cevdet Yılmaz.

In his intervention, the Chair of the NATO Military Committee emphasised the strategic importance of the Balkans and stated: “This region continues to be among NATO’s top priorities.” He also highlighted the benefits and need for continued military cooperation between Balkan countries, stressing that “dialogue on doctrine, tactics, and even procurement pathways can help avoid duplication and foster interoperability.”

This year’s conference focused on “The Vision for Use of Uncrewed Systems in the Future Operating Environment” and was an opportunity to exchange views on strengthening military cooperation as well as opportunities and challenges related to uncrewed systems. The program addressed the development of autonomous technologies, artificial intelligence-supported decision-making mechanisms, human-machine cooperation on the battlefield, and the technological, strategic, and ethical aspects of uncrewed systems.

Over the course of the conference Admiral Cavo Dragone also held several bilateral meetings to discuss current security challenges, preparations to NATO Summit and the upcoming Military Committee Conference.

Since its creation in 2007, the Balkan Countries CHODs Conference has been an important regional military forum where the promotion of cooperation, stability, and confidence among the Balkan countries has been paramount. It has confirmed the commitment of all members to provide timely and efficient responses to diverse security challenges and threats in the region.

MIL Security OSI –

May 29, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: SFO charges global aircraft parts supplier with fraud offence
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Press release

SFO charges global aircraft parts supplier with fraud offence

Jose Alejandro Zamora Yrala is charged with fraudulent trading as part of an SFO investigation into a company that sold parts for aircraft engines.
The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) has today charged Jose Alejandro Zamora Yrala with fraudulent trading as part of its investigation into a company that sold airline parts for the passenger and cargo aircraft engines, the CF56 and CF6.

Zamora Yrala, the company director, is accused of operating UK-based AOG Technics for a fraudulent purpose. The company’s customers included airlines, maintenance providers and parts suppliers.

From 2019 to 2023 the company allegedly defrauded customers by falsifying documentation that related to the origin, status or condition of aircraft parts.

Planes in the UK and elsewhere around the world were grounded in 2023 after the UK’s Civil Aviation Authority, the United States’ Federal Aviation Administration, and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency issued safety alerts to airlines that may have bought or installed AOG’s parts.

Soon after, the SFO launched an investigation, later agreeing to conduct a joint investigation with Portuguese authorities into the supply of suspected fraudulent safety certification and parts. The Portuguese investigation is ongoing and last week authorities searched ten locations across Portugal and made three arrests with SFO officers in attendance.

Zamora Yrala will appear at Westminster Magistrates Court on Monday 2 June 2025.

Nick Ephgrave QPM, Director of the Serious Fraud Office (SFO), said:

Planes were grounded, and significant disruption was caused, today’s charges are the outcome of a focussed and fast paced investigation.

I’m proud that we’ve acted swiftly, together with our Europeans partners, to bring this important case to charge in just 19 months.

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Published 28 May 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
May 29, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Blue badge parking during York Pride

Source: City of York

Published Wednesday, 28 May 2025

There will be some brief changes to blue badge parking in York on Saturday 7 June to allow the Pride parade to pass safely through the city centre.

Road closures

Church Street will be closed to all traffic from 10.30am until around 1.30pm. St Helen’s Square will be closed from 11.30am until around 1.30pm.

Blue badge parking suspension

Parking on St Helen’s Square will be suspended from 10.30am until around 1.30pm. This means that blue badge holders will still be able to get through to either park in Lendal or exit onto Museum Street until 11.30am.

Parking available during the parade

Limited spaces will be available on the double yellow lines in King’s Square. Access for blue badge holders only will be via Goodramgate into Kings Square, vehicles will be able to exit via Colliergate.
Badge holders will be able to park their cars on Blake Street (between McDonald’s and St Helen’s Square) until 11.30am but will not be able to move their vehicles again until the parade has passed through the area.

Limited spaces are also available on Lendal (outside the old Post Office)

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

May 29, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Urgent warning about the safe disposal of batteries and disposable BBQs after Leeds bin wagon fires

Source: City of Leeds

Three concerning near-misses with bin wagons in the last week

Leeds residents are being reminded about the dangers of binning batteries and hot ash from barbeques after three separate incidents in refuse collection vehicles in the last week.

Waste crews were carrying out collections in Burmantofts, Armley and Middleton when smoke started emerging from the back of their wagons. In each case, thanks to the quick actions of the crews, the fire service was promptly called and advised tipping the smouldering waste on to the road to enable it to be safely extinguished.

Evidence in each case appeared to show the fires were caused by either disposable barbeques or batteries from vapes or other discarded devices. Fortunately, on these occasions the crews were unhurt, and the bin wagons, roads and local properties were not damaged. The mess created in each location was cleared as soon as could be safely arranged, but not without the time and cost involved and some inconvenience to local residents and road users.

As a result of these incidents, all residents are being reminded the best way to get rid of disposable barbeques is to let them completely cool down until at least the next day after use and to soak them in water before wrapping them in foil and disposing of them in a black wheelie bin.

Loose batteries or devices like vapes that contain lithium-ion batteries can be safely recycled at the place they were purchased from, most supermarkets or any local household waste recycling centre in Leeds.

Leeds City Council executive member for climate, energy, environment and green space, Councillor Mohammed Rafique said:

“We’d like to thank all of the crews in these incidents for their quick-thinking and attentiveness as well as West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service for their guidance on how to handle these situations to avoid serious issues developing.

“Fires in bin wagons or at recycling centres can be started from the smallest spark or heat source. This results in danger to our crews and staff, damaged vehicles and inconvenience for residents. We appeal to everyone to please dispose of your rubbish responsibly, taking extra care that disposable barbecues are fully cooled down and that hidden batteries in things like vapes are recycled in an appropriate battery bin. Taking the time to be vigilant helps to keep everyone safe.”

Note for editors:
To safely get rid of used E-cigarettes and disposable vapes, these should be taken back to the shops they were bought from and deposited in their vape bins.

Alternatively, find an electrical recycling point at https://www.recycleyourelectricals.org.uk/ or deposit them in the special vape bins at one of the eight local household waste recycling centres across Leeds which can be found at Where to take your waste and recycling | Leeds.gov.uk

A Material Focus local authorities survey in the UK estimated that over 1,200 fires were caused by crushed or damaged batteries in waste streams in 2023, an increase of 71 per cent from the year before.

ENDS

For media enquiries please contact:

Leeds City Council communications and marketing,

Email: communicationsteam@leeds.gov.uk

Tel: 0113 378 6007

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

May 29, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: A660: Next stage of improvements to begin from Monday 2 June

Source: City of Leeds

Leeds City Council is to begin the latest stage of its £10.4m improvement works along the A660, improving safety for pedestrians and cyclists and helping speed up bus journeys between Headingley and the city centre.

Starting from Monday 2 June, works will begin to deliver a segregated inbound and outbound cycle track on both sides of the road, change pedestrian crossings outside the Arndale Centre and The Original Oak to toucan crossings, along with a major upgrade of both the junctions of Hyde Park Corner and North Lane.

Other improvements include introducing a 20mph speed limit between Shaw Lane and St. Michael’s Road, wider pavements and continuous crossings at most junctions, upgrading bus stops and shelters, and providing better access to public transport outside the Arndale Centre.

From Monday 16 June, the junction of St. Michael’s Road and the A660 will be permanently closed to motor vehicles, with the area being transformed into a public space following a public consultation which saw 57% of responses backing this particular proposal.

The junction of the A660 with Regent Park Avenue will also be closed to motor vehicles from 30 July, and the existing left turn road closure from Woodhouse Street to A660 Woodhouse Lane will also be made permanent, with greenery and space for outdoor dining.

The improvements are funded by a £10.4m grant from Active Travel England, with this phase of work being delivered by construction partners Hinko Construction.

The works aim to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists along a route which saw 172 casualties between 2016 and 2021, encouraging people to choose more active and sustainable methods of travel which can boost health and wellbeing and help tackle climate change. They follow previous phases which were completed earlier this year, with 63% of respondents supporting the overall proposals during public consultation.

Deputy Leader and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, Councillor Jonathan Pryor, said:

“The A660 is one of our city’s busiest routes with thousands of people walking between north Leeds and the city centre every day, along with more than 1,000 cyclists daily and a high number of cars and buses.

“It’s important that we make these improvements so it’s safer for everyone using it, helping to meet our Vision Zero strategy goal of eliminating road deaths and serious injuries on Leeds’ roads by 2040.

“As with any scheme of this nature there is likely to be some disruption during construction, but we will work to keep this to a minimum, so we are encouraging people to plan ahead when travelling along this route.”

The works are expected to be completed by summer 2026, with several measures being put in place to minimise disruption wherever possible.

The majority of works will be carried out between 9.30am and 3.30pm on weekdays. In some instances, to ensure safety lanes will be narrowed where traffic will continue to flow in both directions.

In some instances, temporary traffic lights will be required which will take the road down to a single lane, and there will also be some temporary road closures in place. This is likely to lead to delays.

Bus routes will not be affected but there will be some temporary bus stops in place.

More details about the works can be found at the scheme’s dedicated website.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

May 29, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Is Vladimir Putin’s indiscriminate bombing of Ukrainian civilians ‘crazy’? It’s more a sign of impatience

Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Mark Edele, Hansen Professor in History and Deputy Dean, The University of Melbourne

United States President Donald Trump was “not happy” with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, this week.

For three consecutive nights, from Friday to Sunday, Russia launched about 900 drones and scores of missiles at Ukraine. At least 18 people were killed, including three children.

“We’re in the middle of talking and he’s shooting rockets into Kyiv and other cities,” Trump told reporters on Sunday, after Putin ordered the largest air assault on Ukraine’s civilians in its three-year war.

Following up on his remarks, Trump posted on social media that Putin had “gone absolutely CRAZY!”

Putin is not crazy. He is a tactician with a long-term goal: to make Russia a great power again and secure his place in the history books as the re-builder of Russia’s imperial might.

Trump announced after a phone call with Putin on May 19 that Russia and Ukraine would “immediately start negotiations” towards a ceasefire.

With his latest air campaign on Ukraine, however, Putin is threatening to destroy the goodwill he’s built up in Washington, where Trump has been consistently soft on Russia and tough on his allies.

So, what is Putin’s strategy? Why is he launching these massive air bombardments on Ukrainian civilians now?

Putin sees weakness in the West

One theory is these attacks are somehow preparations for a major offensive. That makes little sense.

Attacking military facilities, weapons depots or even frontline troops are useful preparations for an impending attack. Indiscriminate bombing of civilians, meanwhile, is a sign of either desperation or impatience.

Britain and the US bombed German cities during the second world war because they had no alternatives until they built up enough capacity to transport land forces across the sea to invade the continent.

The US also sent bombers to Japan in the final stages of the war because the American public became tired of seeing their sons, husbands, brothers and fathers die on Pacific islands they had never heard of. The war had dragged on forever by this point, and there seemed no end in sight.

Is Putin desperate or impatient? Likely the latter.

From the perspective of the Kremlin, Russia’s strategic situation is as good as it has been for years.

The US is trying to destroy itself through trade wars and boorish diplomacy. Trump clearly dislikes Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and hopes the war will somehow end if he just demands it.

Europe is continuing to back Ukraine. However, for the time being, it still needs US support because its entire security structure is built around NATO and US strength, both economic and military.

What Putin sees when he surveys the international scene is weakness. In his thinking, such weakness needs to be exploited – now is the time to hurt Ukraine as much as possible, and hope it will crack. Analysts call this a “cognitive warfare effort”.

Indiscriminate air war on civilians is the only means Putin currently has to pressure Ukraine. His army has been advancing, but painfully slowly. There is no breakthrough in sight, even once the spring muds dry and the summer fighting season starts in earnest.

Russia has gradually advanced in Ukraine throughout 2024, but with no perceivable change in the overall situation. Putin does not command precision weapons or super spies, which he could use to take out Ukraine’s leadership.

All he can do is rain death on women, children and the elderly from relatively cheap, unsophisticated weapons, such as drones. He now has these in large supply, thanks to ramping up military production at home.

Bombing campaigns do not end wars

A strategic air war on civilians seldom works, however.

Japan’s surrender in 1945 is an exception, but it is misleading in many ways. The Americans had flattened Japan’s cities for a while already, just not using their new atomic weapons. Japan had already lost the war and the real question was if there would be a bloody US invasion or surrender.

And as the US dropped its two nuclear bombs in August of that year, the Red Army joined the fight, racing across Manchuria to help occupy Japanese territories.

In Germany, the British-American bombings from 1942 onwards certainly had an effect on war production, as they killed workers and destroyed factories. But they did not incapacitate the German army and certainly did not break morale.

Instead, the bombings led to embitterment and a closing of ranks around the regime. German society fought to the last moment. It did so not just despite, but because of the air war. The German army was eventually defeated by the ground troops of the Red Army, who took Berlin in an incredibly bloody fight.

Other historical failures are even more spectacular. The US air force dropped 864,000 tons of bombs on North Vietnam during an air campaign of more than 300,000 sorties lasting from 1965 to late 1968. The North Vietnamese lost maybe 29,000 people (dead and wounded), more than half of them civilians. The Americans and their South Vietnamese allies still lost the war.

Putin’s air war will likely follow the historical pattern: it has further embittered the Ukrainians, who know very well that what comes from the east is not liberation.

Another summer of fighting lies ahead. Ukraine’s friends in the democratic world need to urgently redouble their efforts to support Ukraine. The misguided hopes that Putin would somehow “make a deal” lie under the rubble his drones leave behind in Ukraine’s cities.

Mark Edele receives funding from the Australian Research Council.

– ref. Is Vladimir Putin’s indiscriminate bombing of Ukrainian civilians ‘crazy’? It’s more a sign of impatience – https://theconversation.com/is-vladimir-putins-indiscriminate-bombing-of-ukrainian-civilians-crazy-its-more-a-sign-of-impatience-257630

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

May 29, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Former President Tsai visits UK Parliament and delivers speech at LSE, deepening bilateral ties

Source: Republic of Taiwan – Ministry of Foreign Affairs

May 20, 2025

No. 165

Former President Tsai Ing-wen visited Europe from May 10 to 19, traveling to Lithuania and Denmark before continuing to the United Kingdom. On May 15, the first day of her stay in the United Kingdom, she visited the UK Parliament at the invitation of British-Taiwanese All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) Cochairs Sarah Champion MP and Lord Rogan. She was warmly welcomed by parliamentarians from across the political spectrum.

The former president met with House of Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle and took part in a reception at the House of Lords, where she delivered a speech. She exchanged greetings with nearly 50 parliamentarians and staff, including former Lord Speaker Baroness D’Souza, House of Lords Deputy Speaker Baroness Finlay, Trade Envoy to Taiwan Lord Faulkner, Labour Friends of Taiwan Chair Navendu Mishra MP, former Conservative Party leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith MP, Conservative Shadow Minister for Innovation and Technology Ben Spencer MP, and Liberal Democrat Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Calum Miller MP.

In her address at the House of Lords, former President Tsai said that the growing threat of antidemocratic forces was testing democracy around the world, adding that this demonstrated the need for Taiwan and the United Kingdom to work together in defense of freedom and democracy. She commended the House of Commons for passing a motion last November clarifying that United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 made no reference to Taiwan. This was important in countering reckless behavior in the Taiwan Strait, she explained. Highlighting Taiwan’s position on the front line of defending democracy, former President Tsai said that Taiwan was a critical deterrent to China’s expansionist ambitions and would continue to contribute to protecting democratic values.

APPG Cochair Champion noted that Taiwan and the United Kingdom had a deep friendship and shared core values. She said that the United Kingdom should continue to pay attention to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, which she added were essential to global security and prosperity. Cochair Champion noted that in recent years the Taiwan-UK partnership had deepened. She expressed hope that cooperation would expand in semiconductors, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, economic resilience, and other areas.

Former President Tsai also delivered a speech titled “In an Era of Shifting World Order: Taiwan as a Stabilizing Force” at her alma mater, the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). The event was moderated by incoming LSE Law School Dean Andrew Murray, who represented the university and LSE President Larry Kramer. Around 100 people, including General Counsel Elizabeth Messud, attended the speech. In her remarks, former President Tsai noted that the international community was experiencing a reassignment of security responsibilities and a rebalancing of trade relations. She said that to appropriately respond to multiple challenges such as economic fragmentation, political extremism, and military conflict, the function of multilateralism was becoming even more important. The former president emphasized that Taiwan had shown a high degree of resilience in turbulent times in the past, such as during supply chain restructuring, and had proven to be a trustworthy and competitive strategic partner. She added that Taiwan was ready to play a more proactive role in the new world order by further deepening cooperation with democratic countries and contributing to the global trade system. Her remarks were enthusiastically received by the audience.

During her visit to the United Kingdom, former President Tsai also gave an address at Cambridge University, met with faculty and students at the School of Oriental and African Studies, attended a forum hosted by the Royal United Services Institute, and met with Taiwanese people working in the United Kingdom on technology startups and in the arts.

Taiwan-UK relations have witnessed significant progress in recent years. In 2023, the United Kingdom signed the Enhanced Trade Partnership arrangement with Taiwan, becoming the first European country to establish a formal economic and trade framework with Taiwan. The United Kingdom is Taiwan’s fourth-largest trading partner in Europe, third-largest source of investment, and fifth-most popular destination for Taiwanese students studying abroad. The countries collaborate closely in fields such as technological innovation, renewable energy, and societal resilience. Taiwan will further work together with the United Kingdom and other like-minded countries to advance democratic resilience and prosperity. It looks forward to the United Kingdom continuing to demonstrate its commitment to security in the Indo-Pacific region by deploying naval vessels through the Taiwan Strait and taking other concrete actions.

MIL OSI China News –

May 29, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Choose Europe for your startup and scaleup

Source: European Union 2

The Commission has launched an EU startup and scaleup strategy to make Europe a great place for starting and growing global technology-driven companies. It’s part of the broader Choose Europe initiative, and it will help strengthen Europe’s competitiveness.

MIL OSI Europe News –

May 29, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: OSCE seminar in Turkmenistan addresses effective communication in the digital age

Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

Headline: OSCE seminar in Turkmenistan addresses effective communication in the digital age

Participants discuss a practical task during an OSCE-organized training seminar on the use of new technologies in interaction between state institutions and media, Ashgabat, 27 May 2025, OSCE (OSCE) Photo details

The use of new technologies in interaction between state institutions and media was in focus of an OSCE-organized training seminar that took place on 27 and 28 May 2025 in Ashgabat.
The training seminar targeted officials of Turkmenistan’s key state institutions who are in charge of communications work and websites of their institutions as well as journalists representing print, broadcast and online media.
The training seminar familiarized participants with best communications practices of state institutions and aimed to contribute to enhancing their contacts with media though the use of new technologies.
Guido Keel, Senior Advisor to the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media and Živilė Navickaitė-Babkin, strategic communication expert from Lithuania delivered the seminar focusing on core principles of effective communication and modern instruments used by state institutions in interaction with the media.
“The OSCE commitments on freedom of information and access to information are enshrined in a number of the Organization’s key document, including the Helsinki Final Act, the fiftieth anniversary of which we celebrate this year,” said John MacGregor, Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat.
“These documents commit governments to be more transparent by providing timely and reliable information and facilitate a well-informed and responsive dialogue,” emphasized MacGregor.
The seminar participants learnt about a corporate newsroom, its traditional organization, structure and functions, and talked about the essential role of strategic thinking in communications. The experts shared most common mistakes in interaction with the media and provided recommendations for creating user-friendly content. The event also discussed opportunities and limits of multimodal communication and how artificial intelligence changes communications.
“Our seminar highlights the importance of providing accurate reliable information to our citizens, especially in this age of digital technologies and artificial intelligence,” added MacGregor.

MIL OSI Europe News –

May 29, 2025
MIL-OSI: WSO2 Acquires Leading API Analytics and Monetization Startup Moesif

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Austin, TX , May 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — WSO2, the leader in enterprise digital infrastructure technology, today announced it has acquired Moesif, a San Francisco-based startup specializing in advanced API analytics and monetization. The all-cash acquisition marks a strategic milestone in WSO2’s long-term plan to accelerate global growth through targeted inorganic opportunities.

As part of the agreement, Moesif will operate as an independent subsidiary under WSO2’s API Management Business Unit. The Moesif brand and current product offering will be retained, and its leadership along with its team will continue to drive existing business and expand customer growth globally. Moesif customers will continue receiving the same level of service and support, while benefiting from WSO2’s global presence and expanded product offerings. Moesif’s advanced API analytics and monetization capabilities will also be integrated into WSO2’s product portfolio, bringing enhanced value to existing and future customers.

“This acquisition is a first step in our strategy to establish WSO2 as a global technology leader through select inorganic opportunities,” said Dr. Sanjiva Weerawarana, founder and CEO of WSO2. “Moesif brings market-leading capabilities in API analytics and monetization, areas that are increasingly critical to digital businesses today. This is just the beginning—we’re committed to exploring further opportunities that align with our long-term goal to help enterprises deliver seamless, high-impact digital experiences.”

The acquisition enhances WSO2’s positioning in the API management space by adding best-in-class analytics and monetization tools that help businesses optimize, measure, and generate revenue from their APIs. Moesif’s offerings will complement WSO2’s comprehensive API management platform, creating a synergy that benefits both customer bases.

“Joining WSO2 is a natural next step in Moesif’s journey,” said Derric Gilling, founder and CEO of Moesif. “We share a deep commitment to empowering developers and businesses to build powerful digital experiences. As part of WSO2, we’ll continue to innovate rapidly, serve our customers with excellence, and now reach an even broader global audience.”

WSO2 customers will start gaining access to Moesif’s capabilities as part of an enhanced product suite, while Moesif customers will benefit from WSO2’s global support infrastructure and expanded services.

About WSO2
Founded in 2005, WSO2 is the largest independent software vendor providing open-source API management, integration, and identity and access management (IAM) to thousands of enterprises in over 90 countries. WSO2’s products and platforms—including our next-gen internal developer platform, Choreo—empower organizations to leverage the full potential of artificial intelligence and APIs for securely delivering the next generation of AI-enabled digital services and applications. Our open-source, AI-driven, API-first approach frees developers and architects from vendor lock-in and enables rapid digital product creation. Recognized as leaders by industry analysts, WSO2 has more than 800 employees worldwide with offices in Australia, Brazil, Germany, India, Sri Lanka, the UAE, the UK, and the US, with over USD100M in annual recurring revenue. Visit https://wso2.com to learn more. Follow WSO2 on LinkedIn and X (Twitter).

About Moesif
Moesif is the leading AI-driven API analytics and monetization platform that helps companies build better developer experiences, monitor API usage, and drive revenue. With powerful tools for observability, governance, and product-led growth, Moesif empowers engineering and product teams to optimize APIs as a business channel. Moesif serves customers across many industries including logistics, fintech, and enterprise software including leading enterprises like UPS, Covetrus, and UK Royal Mail. Moesif was founded in 2017 and is based in San Francisco, US. Investors include Craft Ventures, Merus Capital, Heavybit, and Fresco. Visit www.moesif.com to learn more.

Trademarks and registered trademarks are the properties of their respective owners.

The MIL Network –

May 29, 2025
MIL-OSI: Aptean Expands DACH Manufacturing ERP Footprint Through Acquisition of VLEX

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

KULMBACH, Germany and ALPHARETTA, Ga., May 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aptean Inc., a global front-runner of AI-driven ERP solutions, is pleased to announce the acquisition of Vlexgroup AG (“VLEX”), a leading provider of variant-manufacturing focused ERP solutions for SME customers in the DACH region headquartered in Kulmbach, Germany.

The acquisition of VLEX further increases Aptean’s DACH footprint while also bolstering its ERP capabilities for the variant-manufacturing sector.

For over 40 years, VLEX has provided mission-critical variant-manufacturing solutions designed to manage complex, diverse, and fast-moving challenges across the SME manufacturing sector in the DACH region. With deep industry expertise, VLEX’s talented team aligns with Aptean’s strategic focus on the SME manufacturing industry in the DACH region, further strengthening commitment to innovation and excellence.

“VLEX has a proven track record with over four decades of experience delivering mission-critical variant-manufacturing solutions across the DACH market,” said TVN Reddy, CEO of Aptean. “VLEX’s product VlexPlus delivers state of the art software solutions specifically designed to manage the complex needs of the variant manufacturing industry and is backed by a team of seasoned industry experts. VLEX will be an important driver in our strategy to scale our DACH manufacturing capabilities. Welcoming the VLEX team and customers into the Aptean family marks a significant step forward in our shared commitment to innovation and success.”

“We are delighted to join a global organization like Aptean, where together we can continue to develop and deliver innovative solutions to our customers. The combination of our businesses offers an exciting opportunity for VLEX’s future growth given our shared commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. Being part of Aptean presents our customers and our team with exciting opportunities for growth and development and we can’t wait to get started,” said Jens Pfeil-Schneider, Chairman Managing Director of VLEX.

About VLEX

For over 40 years, VLEX has been a reliable partner for digital transformation and automation in medium-sized manufacturing companies and wholesale businesses. At the heart of their offer is the cloud-enabled ERP software VlexPlus, which acts as a central data and process hub, mapping all processes in the Customer’s value chain right down to the shop floor. Developed for the complex requirements of variant and order manufacturers, the ERP software is based on one of the most modern technology and process frameworks available today. It enables consistently networked work across system and company boundaries. To learn more visit: https://www.vlexplus.com/

About Aptean
Aptean is a global provider of industry-specific software that helps manufacturers and distributors effectively run and grow their businesses. Aptean’s solutions and services help businesses of all sizes to be Ready for What’s Next, Now^®. Aptean is headquartered in Alpharetta, Georgia and has offices in North America, Europe and Asia-Pacific. To learn more about Aptean and the markets we serve, visit www.aptean.com. Aptean and Ready for What’s Next, Now are Registered Trademarks of Aptean, Inc. All other companies and product names may be trademarks of the respective companies with which they are associated.

For Media Inquiries Please Contact
MediaRelations@aptean.com

The MIL Network –

May 29, 2025
MIL-OSI: BTCC Exchange Launches Hot Coins Trading Week Campaign Series Ahead of 14th Anniversary Celebration
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

A Media Snippet available here.

VILNIUS, Lithuania, May 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BTCC, the world’s longest-serving crypto exchange, is excited to announce the launch of its Hot Coins Trading Week campaign series, marking the beginning of pre-anniversary celebrations leading up to the platform’s 14th milestone in June. The first round of the campaign focuses on carefully selected spot and futures pairs that have gained significant traction among the exchange’s user base of over 7 million.

The first round, which runs from May 26 to June 2, 2025, features a diverse selection of trending pairs including TRUMP, PI, and AI16Z. The campaign offers substantial rewards totaling 50,000 USDT across two prize pools, including exclusive benefits for new users and trading volume-based rewards for active participants:
- New User Exclusive Prize Pool: First-time BTCC traders can earn 10 USDT by achieving 10,000 USDT in cumulative trading volume.
- Trading Champions: High-volume traders compete for rewards ranging from 5 USDT to 800 USDT based on trading volume.
“These selected pairs not only reflect current market trends, but also align with our users’ trading behavior observed over the past quarter,” said Alex, Head of Operations at BTCC. “After 14 years, we know what our community wants to trade. This campaign gives our traders straightforward spot trading on the assets they’re most excited about, with more rounds featuring different coins coming as we build up to our June anniversary.”

The timing of this campaign series strategically positions BTCC as it approaches its 14th anniversary milestone in June. The exchange has built a reputation for longevity and stability in the volatile cryptocurrency market, making it one of the industry’s most established platforms.

Users can participate in the current round through BTCC’s platform, with additional rounds to be announced in the coming weeks. The exchange encourages traders to stay updated on campaign developments and anniversary celebrations through BTCC’s official X account.

About BTCC

Founded in 2011, BTCC is one of the world’s longest-serving cryptocurrency exchanges, offering secure and user-friendly trading services to millions of users globally. With a commitment to security, innovation, and community building, BTCC continues to be a trusted platform in the evolving cryptocurrency landscape.

Website: https://www.btcc.com/en-US

X: https://x.com/BTCCexchange

Contact: press@btcc.com

The MIL Network –
May 29, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Students of the Polytechnic Institute of Social Sciences won the tournament of young chefs

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

Polytechnics won the Yunus Akhmetzyanov Young Chefs Tournament, which was held in Kazan at the Kazan-Expo International Exhibition Center. Students from Moscow, the Sverdlovsk Region, Tatarstan, and other regions of Russia participated in the competition. ISPO SPbPU was represented by three teams of 2nd and 3rd year students.

To get to the final of the international tournament, the guys had to pass a serious competitive selection. The participants had to prepare an original set of three dishes (appetizer, main course, dessert) on the theme “National Lunch of Your Region”. The ISPO teams presented dishes of St. Petersburg cuisine, successfully passed the semi-finals and performed well in the final stage.

Egor Ivanov, Ekaterina Romanova and Aleksandr Kiselev won in the Fundamental Knowledge category. The guys prepared a set called “Petrovsky Nocturne”, consisting of forshmak with gorgonzola mousse, a hot dish – chicken roll, mashed potatoes with spinach, wild mushroom mousse, and a dessert called “Blancmange”.

In the nomination “Technologies of the Future” the best were Irina Murtazina, Darya Shramova and Ivan Voronin. They presented the set “Gold of the North”. Cloudberry was used in each of the three dishes: in the quail appetizer “Northern Desire”, the hot dish of rabbit lapin à Petersburg and in the dessert “White Forest”.

In the nomination “Art of serving a dish”, the first place was taken by Maria Petrova, Anastasia Semenova and Andrey Bratok. The team prepared a set called “Monplaisir”: bruschetta with roast beef in honey-mustard sauce, duck breast sous-vide under raspberry sauce with pumpkin and celery puree and a tarte charlotte dessert. The guys said that they were inspired by the 19th century, when European culture, including gastronomic culture, came to the Northern capital.

The jury included international pastry chef, TV presenter, author of cookbooks Nina Tarasova, head of the tournament directorate Mikhail Sharipov, chef and brand chef of the Kazan restaurant chain Andrey Sakhovsky and other experts. The tournament participants received recommendations from authoritative chefs not only from Russia, but also from representatives of other countries, including Azerbaijan, Turkey, Tunisia, Iran, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Morocco.

After the tournament, Azerbaijani chef Tahir Amiraslanov visited the Institute of Secondary Vocational Education. In 1984, he graduated from the Leningrad Institute of Soviet Trade. Now Tahir Amiraslanov is the general director of the Center for Azerbaijani National Culinary Arts, the president of the national association of chefs of Azerbaijan, and the author of books on cooking and the art of nutrition. Tahir Amiraslanov gave a lecture to students of the ISPO. He shared stories from his student days, revealed the secrets of preparing some dishes, their composition and serving. After a tour of the Museum of the History of the Development of Public Catering in St. Petersburg, Tahir Amiraslanov donated his books to the ISPO.

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 –

May 29, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Ethiopia’s Central Bank: Leading Transformative Reform

Source: IMF – News in Russian

May 28, 2025

Ethiopia has taken historic steps to address macroeconomic imbalances while fostering sustainable growth

Over the past year, Ethiopia—Africa’s second most populous country—has embarked on a comprehensive transformation of its monetary and exchange rate regimes. After decades of tight control, the country has liberalized the foreign exchange regime, adopted a more flexible exchange rate, moved to an interest rate-based monetary policy, and ended central bank financing of government. In parallel, the National Bank of Ethiopia (NBE) is updating its legal framework and internal organization.

These reforms aim to address acute foreign exchange shortages and inflation, creating conditions for high, sustainable growth. The authorities are also tackling budgetary constraints, financial vulnerabilities in state-owned enterprises and state-owned banks, and a sovereign debt restructuring while mitigating social impacts and managing humanitarian pressures. The IMF is supporting Ethiopia’s reform efforts through a four-year $3.4 billion Extended Credit Facility Arrangement.

During the 2025 IMF-World Bank Spring Meetings, Mamo Mihretu, Governor of the National Bank of Ethiopia discussed these key reforms with Abebe Aemro Selassie, Director of the IMF’s African Department. The following is an edited transcript of the conversation, focusing on key highlights (view video).

Abebe Aemro Selassie: Ethiopia is undergoing significant reforms that are reshaping its economic landscape. Can you provide some context regarding the state of the economy before these reforms?

Mamo Mihretu: After two decades of sustained economic growth, primarily driven by public investment, Ethiopia faced unsustainable macroeconomic imbalances. The state’s reliance on external creditors, the large public bank, and NBE led to foreign exchange shortages, limited access to credit for the private sector, high inflation, financial stability risks, and debt vulnerabilities.

Abebe Aemro Selassie: What are the primary objectives of the reform agenda that Ethiopia has embarked upon?

Mamo Mihretu: We launched our Homegrown Economic Reform Program in 2019. The objective of the reforms was to address fundamentally, boldly, and conclusively the sources of macroeconomic instability in Ethiopia and create a much more open, investment-friendly, and private-sector-friendly environment. These objectives are critical for our job creation agenda that will increase income and improve livelihoods.

Abebe Aemro Selassie: Can you elaborate on some of the key reforms in Ethiopia’s monetary policy?

Mamo Mihretu: We have made historic changes, including the revision of the Central Bank Act to prioritize price stability. We introduced a monetary policy rate, implemented open market operations for liquidity management with banks, and established a Monetary Policy Committee to advise on monetary policy decisions based on comprehensive assessments of economic conditions. Interest rates are now positive in real terms. Inflation has declined from 30 percent to 13 percent.

Abebe Aemro Selassie: What about the reforms related to foreign exchange? What changes have been implemented?

Mamo Mihretu: Ethiopia has a market-based foreign exchange regime for the first time in five decades. We comprehensively liberalized foreign exchange transactions and eliminated the requirement to surrender export earnings to the NBE. The early results have been promising; we expect exports to double and have already tripled our foreign reserves, while foreign exchange availability has also increased.

Abebe Aemro Selassie: Communication appears to be a vital aspect of your reform strategy. Can you discuss its importance?

Mamo Mihretu: Building credibility and trust is essential. We are investing in transparent communication and actively monitor market dynamics. By maintaining open channels of dialogue with stakeholders, we aim to foster a supportive environment for these reforms.

Abebe Aemro Selassie: What lessons have emerged from your experience in implementing these reforms?

Mamo Mihretu: Several key lessons stand out. First, preparation and coordination among government agencies are crucial. Second, the sequencing of reforms matters; it helps maintain stability and manage public expectations. Finally, adapting to evolving economic conditions is vital for the success of any reform effort.

Abebe Aemro Selassie: What are the next steps for Ethiopia in terms of reform and economic development?

Mamo Mihretu: We have to deepen the current monetary policy reforms as we move to a fully-fledged interest-rate based monetary policy. We are also working on deepening the foreign exchange market. Most importantly we are decisively addressing macroeconomic instability to create a strong foundation for sustainable growth.

https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/05/28/cf-ethiopias-central-bank-leading-transformative-reform

MIL OSI

MIL OSI Russia News –

May 29, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: 28 May 2025 News release Seventy-eighth World Health Assembly concludes: historic outcomes, consequential highlights
Source: World Health Organisation

The Seventy-eighth World Health Assembly (WHA78), the annual meeting of World Health Organization’s (WHO) Member States, came to a close Tuesday, as health leaders lauded vast accomplishments and global solidarity.

The Assembly, WHO’s highest decision-making body, convened from 19 May to 27 May, under the theme “One World for Health”. Member States considered approximately 75 items and sub-items across all areas of health, engaging in lively debate and adopting consequential resolutions to improve health for all.

“The words ‘historic’ and ‘landmark’ are overused, but they are perfectly apt to describe this year’s World Health Assembly,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “The adoption of the Pandemic Agreement and the approval of the next increase in assessed contributions, along with the numerous other resolutions that Member States adopted are a sign to the world that we can achieve cooperation in the face of conflict, and unity amid division.”

World’s first pandemic agreement: equity for all

On 20 May, Member States adopted the historic WHO Pandemic Agreement. The moment was met with heartfelt applause, celebrating over three years of intense negotiations by the Intergovernmental Negotiating Body, comprising WHO’s Member States.

The adoption of the Agreement is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to safeguard the world from a repeat of the suffering caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Agreement aims to enhance global coordination and cooperation, equity and access for future pandemics, all while respecting national sovereignty.

Over the next year, Member States will build on the Resolution, by holding consultations on the Pathogen Access and Benefit Sharing system (PABS), an annex to the Agreement which would enhance equitable access to medical advancements.

Sustainable financing: protecting the future of global health

In a changing financial landscape, Member States united to protect WHO’s critical work by approving the second 20% increase in assessed contributions (ACs). By 2030–2031, ACs will make up 50% of WHO’s core budget, providing more predictable, resilient, and flexible funding.

The Assembly’s commitment to sustainable financing did not stop there; at a high-level pledging event during WHA78, health leaders pledged at least US$ 210 million for WHO’s Investment Round, the fundraising campaign for the Organization’s global health strategy for the next four years (the Fourteenth General Programme of Work). In addition to the US$ 1.7 billion already raised for the Investment Round, these pledges mark a significant step toward sustainable financing of WHO. Since launching in May 2024, the Investment Round has attracted 35 new contributors – moving WHO closer to the broader donor base envisioned in the Director-General’s ongoing transformation agenda.

Action for health: major decisions and resolutions

WHA 78 was steadfast in addressing ongoing health issues and adaptable in targeting threats and conflicts. The accomplishments of the Assembly spanned many areas of health as Member States
- adopted a new resolution highlighting the global health financing emergency;
- endorsed first-ever resolutions on lung and kidney health, highlighting the upcoming UN General Assembly focus on noncommunicable diseases;
- adopted a new resolution on science-driven norms and standards for health policy and implementation;
- adopted a new target to halve the health impacts of air pollution by 2040;
- adopted an innovative resolution to promote social connection with growing evidence linking it to improved health outcomes and reduced risk of early death;
- adopted a resolution for a lead-free future;
- adopted a resolution to address rare diseases, protecting the over 300 million people globally who live with one of more than 7000 rare diseases;
- agreed to expand the provisions of the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes to tackle the digital marketing of formula milk and baby foods;
- adopted a resolution to accelerate the eradication of Guinea worm disease.
The Assembly adopted other resolutions on digital health, the health and care workforce, medical imaging, nursing and midwifery, sensory impairment, and skin diseases, among others. Two new official WHO health campaigns were established: World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day and World Prematurity Day.

Strengthening health emergency preparedness and response

The World Health Assembly also discussed WHO’s work in health emergencies. Over the last year, WHO responded internationally to 51 graded emergencies across 89 countries and territories, including global outbreaks of cholera and mpox – a public health emergency of international concern – as well as multiple humanitarian crises. Working with over 900 partners across 28 health clusters, WHO helped provide health assistance for 72 million people in humanitarian settings. Nearly 60% of new emergencies were climate-related, highlighting the growing health impacts of climate change.

During the Assembly, Member States
- considered matters pertaining to WHO’s work in health emergencies and commended the Organization’s leadership in this space;
- noted the Director-General’s report on implementation of the health emergency prevention, preparedness, response and resilience (HEPR) framework and expressed their support for the strengthening of the global architecture;
- considered the health needs of people in Ukraine and the occupied Palestinian territory;
- noted the Director-General’s report on progress made in implementing the International Health Regulations (2005); and
- approved a decision to strengthen the research base on public health and social measures to control outbreaks.
MIL OSI United Nations News –
May 29, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: CBSA Makes a Major Cannabis Seizure at the Montreal Marine and Rail Service

Source: Government of Canada News

Montreal, Quebec, May 28, 2025 – Canada Border Services Agency

On April 30, 2025, border services officers at Montreal’s Marine and Rail Service located 641.83 kg of suspected cannabis in a container being exported to Spain.

During the inspection, border services officers detected the contraband concealed in pallet bags inside cardboard boxes within the container. The cannabis, valued at over CA $4.8 million, was seized by the Canada Border Service Agency (CBSA) and turned over to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). The investigation is ongoing.

The CBSA is committed to protecting our communities from contraband and organized crime. CBSA reiterates that although cannabis has been legalized and regulated in Canada, the import or export of cannabis in any form without a permit or exception authorized by Health Canada is a serious criminal offence, punishable by arrest and prosecution.

MIL OSI Canada News –

May 29, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Former President Tsai visits UK Parliament and delivers speech at LSE, deepening bilateral ties

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

May 20, 2025
No. 165

Former President Tsai Ing-wen visited Europe from May 10 to 19, traveling to Lithuania and Denmark before continuing to the United Kingdom. On May 15, the first day of her stay in the United Kingdom, she visited the UK Parliament at the invitation of British-Taiwanese All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) Cochairs Sarah Champion MP and Lord Rogan. She was warmly welcomed by parliamentarians from across the political spectrum.

The former president met with House of Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle and took part in a reception at the House of Lords, where she delivered a speech. She exchanged greetings with nearly 50 parliamentarians and staff, including former Lord Speaker Baroness D’Souza, House of Lords Deputy Speaker Baroness Finlay, Trade Envoy to Taiwan Lord Faulkner, Labour Friends of Taiwan Chair Navendu Mishra MP, former Conservative Party leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith MP, Conservative Shadow Minister for Innovation and Technology Ben Spencer MP, and Liberal Democrat Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Calum Miller MP.

In her address at the House of Lords, former President Tsai said that the growing threat of antidemocratic forces was testing democracy around the world, adding that this demonstrated the need for Taiwan and the United Kingdom to work together in defense of freedom and democracy. She commended the House of Commons for passing a motion last November clarifying that United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 made no reference to Taiwan. This was important in countering reckless behavior in the Taiwan Strait, she explained. Highlighting Taiwan’s position on the front line of defending democracy, former President Tsai said that Taiwan was a critical deterrent to China’s expansionist ambitions and would continue to contribute to protecting democratic values.

APPG Cochair Champion noted that Taiwan and the United Kingdom had a deep friendship and shared core values. She said that the United Kingdom should continue to pay attention to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, which she added were essential to global security and prosperity. Cochair Champion noted that in recent years the Taiwan-UK partnership had deepened. She expressed hope that cooperation would expand in semiconductors, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, economic resilience, and other areas.

Former President Tsai also delivered a speech titled “In an Era of Shifting World Order: Taiwan as a Stabilizing Force” at her alma mater, the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). The event was moderated by incoming LSE Law School Dean Andrew Murray, who represented the university and LSE President Larry Kramer. Around 100 people, including General Counsel Elizabeth Messud, attended the speech. In her remarks, former President Tsai noted that the international community was experiencing a reassignment of security responsibilities and a rebalancing of trade relations. She said that to appropriately respond to multiple challenges such as economic fragmentation, political extremism, and military conflict, the function of multilateralism was becoming even more important. The former president emphasized that Taiwan had shown a high degree of resilience in turbulent times in the past, such as during supply chain restructuring, and had proven to be a trustworthy and competitive strategic partner. She added that Taiwan was ready to play a more proactive role in the new world order by further deepening cooperation with democratic countries and contributing to the global trade system. Her remarks were enthusiastically received by the audience.

During her visit to the United Kingdom, former President Tsai also gave an address at Cambridge University, met with faculty and students at the School of Oriental and African Studies, attended a forum hosted by the Royal United Services Institute, and met with Taiwanese people working in the United Kingdom on technology startups and in the arts.

Taiwan-UK relations have witnessed significant progress in recent years. In 2023, the United Kingdom signed the Enhanced Trade Partnership arrangement with Taiwan, becoming the first European country to establish a formal economic and trade framework with Taiwan. The United Kingdom is Taiwan’s fourth-largest trading partner in Europe, third-largest source of investment, and fifth-most popular destination for Taiwanese students studying abroad. The countries collaborate closely in fields such as technological innovation, renewable energy, and societal resilience. Taiwan will further work together with the United Kingdom and other like-minded countries to advance democratic resilience and prosperity. It looks forward to the United Kingdom continuing to demonstrate its commitment to security in the Indo-Pacific region by deploying naval vessels through the Taiwan Strait and taking other concrete actions.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

May 29, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: EU survey: record high trust in the EU and strong support for common defence

Source: European Union 2

The latest Eurobarometer survey shows the highest level of trust in the EU in 18 years and highest-ever support for the euro. It also reveals that Europeans would like to see a stronger and more assertive EU through common defence. Also, peace remains the value that best represents the EU.

MIL OSI Europe News –

May 29, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Work on new base for Plymouth’s athletes gets underway
Source: City of Plymouth

A new home for Plymouth’s athletes is getting on track with work starting on the concrete foundation for their new pavilion.

Councillor Sue Dann, Cabinet Member for Customer Services, Sport, Leisure and HR and OD, started the big dig to mark the start of work which will see foundations laid and services run into the site.

The preparation work is being carried out as part of a massive city investment in sports and wellbeing at the former Brickfields Sports Centre and wider site.

Now called Foulston Park, the ambitious project has been delivered through a partnership involving Plymouth Argyle, Argyle Community Trust, Plymouth City Council, Plymouth Albion RFC and Devonport Community Leisure Limited.

City of Plymouth Athletics Club is also a key stakeholder and as part of the extensive negotiations that enabled the redevelopment to go ahead, surrendered the lease on their old club house in return for support for a new pavilion to be built.

The old pavilions was a wooden clubhouse on land on the other side of the car park, but their new home will be track side, with the Foulston project contractors preparing the land for foundations and utilities to run into the new building.

The new pavilion is a steel fabricated unit and will be installed over the summer. Costing in the region of £50,000, it has been funded through grants from Plymouth City Council, the Armada Athletics Network and the club.

Chair of the club, Paul Crutchley said: “This is a very exciting time for the club and is something we have wanted to see happen for a long time. Having the pavilions and a modernised weight and gym facility closer to the track will enable athletes and coaches to train more effectively as well as providing a focal point for the athletic community and support athlete rehabilitation.”

Getting the pavilion installed is just part of the job. Work needs to be carried out to transform the interior, with plans for a small kitchen, a separate meeting room and small storage room – work he is hoping to persuade club volunteers to help with.

Councillor Sue Dann said: “There are around 330 club members with aspiring athletes and a host of volunteers who give up their time to support, coach and encourage people of all ages and ability on their athletic journey.

“They do an incredible job and are truly unsung heroes! It’s good to be able to make their life a little bit easier with the new pavilion. As a city we have committed to being a great place to grow up and grow old and access to great facilities is part of this commitment.

“We want Foulston Park is be a place where everyone can enjoy keeping fit and well – whatever their chosen activity!”

Mark Lovell, Chief Executive Officer at Argyle Community Trust added: “We are proud to have already supported the health and wellbeing of hundreds of people across the city since opening The Hub at Foulston Park just a couple of months ago.

“The gym is providing best in class equipment in an inclusive environment to support fitness journeys and the range of fitness classes means there’s something for everyone.

“The athletics track is an extremely important and popular part of this as we continue to support local athletes and position Foulston Park as a destination for creating opportunities and inspiring people of all ages and abilities through sport.”

This is another step in the wider Foulston Park development due to finish late summer 2026. The Hub opened its doors at the end of March and offers a range of health and wellbeing opportunities, including a state-of-the-art gym, physical activity programmes, mental health support, youth and veterans’ programmes and life skills training.

Much more than just a fitness centre, it has been designed as a friendly and welcoming space for all, whether people are looking to get fitter and healthier, connect with others or simply enjoy a safe and supportive environment. Once complete the park will also see:
- A new permanent home for Plymouth Argyle’s Academy and Plymouth Argyle Women
- Extensive community and sport facilities which will include:
  
  New grass and all-weather 3G pitches
  
  Play zone exclusively for public use
  
  Better public access, landscaped public areas and parking
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
May 29, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: NATO Secretary General welcomes Icelandic Prime Minister to NATO Headquarters

Source: NATO

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte met Icelandic Prime Minister Kristrún Frostadóttir in Brussels on Wednesday (28 May 2025) to discuss Iceland’s contributions to the Alliance, support to Ukraine, and preparations for the NATO Summit in The Hague.

“Iceland is one of NATO’s twelve founding members,” said the Secretary General. “For 76 years now, you have helped protect our peace, our security, and our core values: democracy, freedom, and the rule of law.”

While Iceland does not have armed forces, the Secretary General highlighted the country’s important and growing role in NATO. Iceland operates key air defence and surveillance systems as part of NATO’s integrated Air and Missile Defence, provides host nation support and infrastructure for Allied air policing, and regularly hosts major exercises such as NATO´s premier anti-submarine warfare exercise, Dynamic Mongoose.

“Iceland plays a unique and essential role in the High North,” said Mr Rutte, noting the importance of Iceland’s geostrategic location to better understand the evolving security environment in that area. He welcomed the Icelandic government’s decision to develop a new national security and defence policy, calling it a timely step to “further reinforce our resilience and readiness.”

On the upcoming NATO Summit in The Hague, the Secretary General indicated it “will be an important moment to drive forward NATO’s efforts to become stronger, fairer, and more lethal”.

Mr Rutte thanked Prime Minister Frostadóttir for Iceland’s continued support to Ukraine, from training military personnel and supporting demining efforts, to humanitarian support and weapons procurement. Iceland recently pledged an additional 14.4 million euros in defence support to Ukraine, alongside contributions to the “Grain from Ukraine” initiative and the donation of a mobile field hospital. Iceland also contributes personnel to NATO’s Security Assistance and Training for Ukraine command in Wiesbaden (NSATU).

“I know that Iceland has a proud tradition as a peaceful nation – and that makes your contributions all the more meaningful,” Mr Rutte said. “Because to preserve peace, we need to shift to a wartime mindset.”

MIL Security OSI –

May 29, 2025

MIL-OSI: STEALTHGAS INC. Reports First Quarter 2025 Financial and Operating Results

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

ATHENS, Greece, May 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — STEALTHGAS INC. (NASDAQ: GASS), a ship-owning company serving the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) sector of the international shipping industry, announced today its unaudited financial and operating results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025.

OPERATIONAL AND FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

Strong profitability continued for the first quarter, with Net income of $14.1 million corresponding to a basic EPS of $0.38, similar to the previous quarter’s $14.2 million but reduced compared to the $17.7 million record at the time achieved in the first quarter of 2024.
Time Charter equivalent revenues decreased by 4.6% compared to the same period of last year to $36.9 million for the first quarter of 2025 as a result of a more muted market.
Preserved the high period coverage. About 70% of fleet days for 2025 are secured on period charters, with total fleet employment days for all subsequent periods generating over $165 million (excl. JV vessels) in contracted revenues.
Continued reducing leverage, making $34.4 million in debt repayments during the first quarter of 2025 and a further $19.2 million in the current quarter of 2025. Currently, all the vessels in the fully owned fleet except one are unencumbered.
Since the last quarterly announcement the Company has spent $1.8 million in share repurchases. Overall under the current program the Company has spent over $21.2 million in share repurchases since June 2023.
Maintaining ample cash and cash equivalents (incl. restricted cash) of $77.1 million as of March 31, 2025 enabling the Company to further reduce debt.

First Quarter 2025 Results¹:

Revenues for the three months ended March 31, 2025 amounted to $42.0 million compared to revenues of $41.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024, based on an average of 28.0 vessels and 27.0 vessels owned by the Company, respectively, as the vessels remaining in the fleet earned higher revenues due to better market conditions.
Voyage expenses and vessels’ operating expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2025, were $5.1 million and $13.5 million, respectively, compared to $2.9 million and $11.5 million, respectively, for the three months ended March 31, 2024. The $2.2 million increase in voyage expenses was mainly due to an increase in port expenses and in bunkers costs as a result of the increase in spot market days for the fleet. The $2.0 million increase in vessels’ operating expenses was mainly due to increase in crew costs and maintenance expenses.
Drydocking costs for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024 were $0.4 million and nil, respectively. Drydocking expenses during the first quarter of 2025 mainly relate to the commenced drydocking of one vessel, compared to no drydocking of vessels in the same period of last year.
General and administrative expenses remained stable at $2.2 million for both the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024.
Depreciation for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024 was $6.7 million and $6.5 million, respectively, a $0.2 million increase is mainly related to the increase in average number of vessels owned by the Company and to the partial replacement of some of the older vessels with newer and larger ones which have a higher cost.
Impairment loss for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024 was $0.5 million and nil, respectively. As a result of the agreed sale terms for the vessel Gas Cerberus, with delivery expected in the second quarter of 2025, a non-cash impairment loss of $0.5 million was recognized in the first quarter of 2025.
Interest and finance costs for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, were $1.4 million and $3.2 million, respectively. The $1.8 million decrease from the same period of last year is primarily due to continued debt prepayments.
Interest income for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, remained unchanged at $0.8 million.
Equity earnings in joint ventures for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024 was a gain of $2.2 million and $2.6 million, respectively. The $0.4 million decrease was primarily due to decrease in number of vessels in joint ventures.
As a result of the above, for the three months ended March 31, 2025, the Company reported net income of $14.1 million, compared to net income of $17.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024. The weighted average number of shares outstanding, basic, for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024 was 35.7 million and 35.1 million, respectively.
Earnings per share, basic, for the three months ended March 31, 2025 amounted to $0.38 compared to earnings per share, basic, of $0.49 for the same period of last year.
Adjusted net income was $16.1 million corresponding to an Adjusted EPS of $0.44 for the three months ended March 31, 2025 compared to Adjusted net income of $19.1 million corresponding to an Adjusted EPS of $0.53 for the same period of last year.
EBITDA for the three months ended March 31, 2025 amounted to $21.4 million. Reconciliations of Adjusted Net Income, EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA to Net Income are set forth below.
An average of 28.0 vessels were owned by the Company during the three months ended March 31, 2025 compared to 27.04 vessels for the same period of 2024.

¹ EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted Net Income and Adjusted EPS are non-GAAP measures. Refer to the reconciliation of these measures to the most directly comparable financial measure in accordance with GAAP set forth later in this release.

Fleet Update Since Previous Announcement

The Company announced the conclusion of the following chartering arrangements (of three or more months duration):

A twelve months time charter for its 2016 built LPG carrier Eco Dominator, until Mar 2026.
A twelve months time charter extension for its 2016 built LPG carrier Eco Nical, until May 2026.
A six months time charter extension for the 2012 built LPG carrier Gas Esco, until Sep 2025.

As of June 2025, the Company has total contracted revenues of approximately $165 million.

As of June 2025, for the remainder of the year, the Company has circa 70% of fleet days secured under period contracts and contracted revenues of approximately $72 million.

In April 2025, the Company entered into an agreement to sell the vessel Gas Cerberus to a third party, with delivery expected in the second quarter of 2025. The vessel is debt-free, and the full proceeds from the sale will contribute to the Company’s liquidity position.

The Company has agreed in principle to purchase back from one of its joint venture partners the remaining share (49.9%) which it does not already own in the two vessels Eco Lucidity and Gas Haralambos. The transaction is subject to entry into definitive documentation and customary conditions and is expected to take place within June 2025. Following this transaction, these two vessels will be consolidated within the fully owned fleet of the Company and only one vessel will remain in a JV.

Board Chairman Michael Jolliffe Commented

The results that were announced today point to a strong start to the year and underpin our confidence in sustaining the momentum we have built over the last years, throughout 2025. It is no doubt a period of uncertainty and in such periods, among other things, there is reluctance by charterers to commit longer term. With the latest developments, we expect trade flows to normalize and sentiment to improve as the fundamentals of LPG shipping continue to be positive. In this volatile environment StealthGas remains steadfast in its strategy and has all but eliminated its financial risk, being net debt free after having made over $50 million in debt repayments during this year and having 27 out of 28 vessels unencumbered. At the same time in order to return value to our shareholders, we have begun buying back shares, spending $1.8 million in share repurchases since March. Overall under the current program the Company has spent over $21.2 million in share repurchases since June 2023.

Conference Call details:

On May 28, 2025 at 10:00 am ET, the company’s management will host a conference call to discuss the results and the company’s operations and outlook.

Conference call participants should pre-register using the below link to receive the dial-in numbers and a personal PIN, which are required to access the conference call.

https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BI2ab472844539410f8650314c8df8fdaf

Slides and audio webcast:
There will also be a live and then archived webcast of the conference call, through the STEALTHGAS INC. website (www.stealthgas.com). Participants to the live webcast should register on the website approximately 10 minutes prior to the start of the webcast.

About STEALTHGAS INC.

StealthGas Inc. is a ship-owning company serving the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) sector of the international shipping industry. StealthGas Inc. has a fleet of 31 LPG carriers, including three Joint Venture vessels in the water. These LPG vessels have a total capacity of 349,170 cubic meters (cbm). StealthGas Inc.’s shares are listed on the Nasdaq Global Select Market and trade under the symbol “GASS.”
Visit our website at www.stealthgas.com

Forward-Looking Statements

Matters discussed in this release may constitute forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements reflect our current views with respect to future events and financial performance and may include statements concerning plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performance and underlying assumptions and other statements, which are other than statements of historical facts. The forward-looking statements in this release are based upon various assumptions, many of which are based, in turn, upon further assumptions, including without limitation, management’s examination of historical operating trends, data contained in our records and other data available from third parties. Although STEALTHGAS INC. believes that these assumptions were reasonable when made, because these assumptions are inherently subject to significant uncertainties and contingencies which are difficult or impossible to predict and are beyond our control, STEALTHGAS INC. cannot assure you that it will achieve or accomplish these expectations, beliefs or projections. Important factors that, in our view, could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements include the strength of world economies and currencies, geopolitical conditions, including any trade disruptions resulting from tariffs and other protectionist measures imposed by the United States or other countries, general market conditions, including changes in charter hire rates and vessel values, charter counterparty performance, changes in demand that may affect attitudes of time charterers to scheduled and unscheduled drydockings, shipyard performance, changes in STEALTHGAS INC’s operating expenses, including bunker prices, drydocking and insurance costs, ability to obtain financing and comply with covenants in our financing arrangements, actions taken by regulatory authorities, potential liability from pending or future litigation, domestic and international political conditions, the conflict in Ukraine and related sanctions, the conflict in Israel and Gaza, potential disruption of shipping routes due to ongoing attacks by Houthis in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden or accidents and political events or acts by terrorists.

Risks and uncertainties are further described in reports filed by STEALTHGAS INC. with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

Fleet List
For information on our fleet and further information:
Visit our website at www.stealthgas.com

Fleet Data:
The following key indicators highlight the Company’s operating performance during the periods ended March 31, 2024 and 2025.

FLEET DATA	Q1 2024	Q1 2025
Average number of vessels (1)	27.04	28.00
Period end number of owned vessels in fleet	27	28
Total calendar days for fleet (2)	2,461	2,520
Total voyage days for fleet (3)	2,439	2,500
Fleet utilization (4)	99.1%	99.2%
Total charter days for fleet (5)	2,232	2,118
Total spot market days for fleet (6)	207	382
Fleet operational utilization (7)	97.7%	94.0%

1) Average number of vessels is the number of owned vessels that constituted our fleet for the relevant period, as measured by the sum of the number of days each vessel was a part of our fleet during the period divided by the number of calendar days in that period.
2) Total calendar days for fleet are the total days the vessels we operated were in our possession for the relevant period including off-hire days associated with major repairs, drydockings or special or intermediate surveys.
3) Total voyage days for fleet reflect the total days the vessels we operated were in our possession for the relevant period net of off-hire days associated with major repairs, drydockings or special or intermediate surveys.
4) Fleet utilization is the percentage of time that our vessels were available for revenue generating voyage days and is determined by dividing voyage days by fleet calendar days for the relevant period.
5) Total charter days for fleet are the number of voyage days the vessels operated on time or bareboat charters for the relevant period.
6) Total spot market charter days for fleet are the number of voyage days the vessels operated on spot market charters for the relevant period.
7) Fleet operational utilization is the percentage of time that our vessels generated revenue and is determined by dividing voyage days excluding commercially idle days by fleet calendar days for the relevant period.

Reconciliation of Adjusted Net Income, EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA and adjusted EPS:

Adjusted net income represents net income before loss/gain on derivatives excluding swap interest paid/received, impairment loss, net gain/loss on sale of vessels and share based compensation. EBITDA represents net income before interest and finance costs, interest income and depreciation. Adjusted EBITDA represents net income before interest and finance costs, interest income, depreciation, impairment loss, net gain/loss on sale of vessels, share based compensation and loss/gain on derivatives.

Adjusted EPS represents Adjusted net income divided by the weighted average number of shares.

EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income and adjusted EPS are included herein because they are a basis, upon which we and our investors assess our financial performance. They allow us to present our performance from period to period on a comparable basis and provide investors with a means of better evaluating and understanding our operating performance.

EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income and adjusted EPS are not recognized measurements under U.S. GAAP. Our calculation of EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income and adjusted EPS may not be comparable to that reported by other companies in the shipping or other industries. In evaluating Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted net income and Adjusted EPS, you should be aware that in the future we may incur expenses that are the same as or similar to some of the adjustments in this presentation.

(Expressed in United States Dollars, except number of shares)	Three Months Period Ended March 31st,
	2024		2025
Net Income – Adjusted Net Income
Net income	17,729,716		14,107,680
Less gain on derivatives	(99,286	)	—
Plus swap interest received	208,127		—
Less gain on sale of vessels, net	(46,384	)	—
Plus impairment loss	—		488,400
Plus share based compensation	1,345,409		1,540,402
Adjusted Net Income	19,137,582		16,136,482

Net income – EBITDA
Net income	17,729,716		14,107,680
Plus interest and finance costs	3,169,061		1,415,605
Less interest income	(753,396	)	(752,471	)
Plus depreciation	6,492,376		6,653,460
EBITDA	26,637,757		21,424,274

Net income – Adjusted EBITDA
Net income	17,729,716		14,107,680
Less gain on derivatives	(99,286	)	—
Less gain on sale of vessels, net	(46,384	)	—
Plus impairment loss	—		488,400
Plus share based compensation	1,345,409		1,540,402
Plus interest and finance costs	3,169,061		1,415,605
Less interest income	(753,396	)	(752,471	)
Plus depreciation	6,492,376		6,653,460
Adjusted EBITDA	27,837,496		23,453,076

EPS – Adjusted EPS
Net income	17,729,716		14,107,680
Adjusted net income	19,137,582		16,136,482
Weighted average number of shares, basic	35,119,500		35,725,720
EPS – Basic	0.49		0.38
Adjusted EPS – Basic	0.53		0.44

StealthGas Inc.
Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income
(Expressed in United States Dollars, except for number of shares)

		Three Months Period Ended March 31,
		2024		2025

Revenues
	Revenues	41,563,908		42,025,987

Expenses
	Voyage expenses	2,345,200		4,573,956
	Voyage expenses – related party	513,247		518,440
	Vessels’ operating expenses	11,235,359		13,282,235
	Vessels’ operating expenses – related party	241,500		228,200
	Drydocking costs	–		412,620
	Management fees – related party	1,053,719		1,080,001
	General and administrative expenses	2,213,853		2,165,709
	Depreciation	6,492,376		6,653,460
	Impairment loss	–		488,400
	Net gain on sale of vessels	(46,384	)	–
Total expenses		24,048,870		29,403,021

Income from operations		17,515,038		12,622,966

Other (expenses)/income
	Interest and finance costs	(3,169,061	)	(1,415,605	)
	(Loss)/gain on derivatives	99,286		–
	Interest income	753,396		752,471
	Foreign exchange (loss)/gain	(49,044	)	(26,484	)
Other expenses, net		(2,365,423	)	(689,618	)

Income before equity in earnings of investees		15,149,615		11,933,348
Equity earnings in joint ventures		2,580,101		2,174,332
Net Income		17,729,716		14,107,680

Earnings per share
– Basic		0.49		0.38
– Diluted		0.49		0.39

Weighted average number of shares
– Basic		35,119,500		35,725,720
– Diluted		35,247,529		35,764,990

StealthGas Inc.
Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
(Expressed in United States Dollars)

		December 31,	March 31,
		2024	2025

Assets
Current assets
	Cash and cash equivalents	80,653,398	74,392,306
	Trade and other receivables	6,156,300	7,253,738
	Other current assets	193,265	422,168
	Claims receivable	55,475	55,475
	Inventories	3,891,147	3,198,028
	Advances and prepayments	733,212	549,263
	Fair value of derivatives	387,608	280,577
Total current assets		92,070,405	86,151,555

Non current assets
	Operating lease right-of-use assets	—	202,362
	Vessels, net	608,214,416	601,072,556
	Other receivables	370,053	237,561
	Restricted cash	3,867,752	2,734,442
	Investments in joint ventures	27,717,238	27,257,570
Total non current assets		640,169,459	631,504,491
Total assets		732,239,864	717,656,046

Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
Current liabilities
	Payable to related parties	388,130	3,039,119
	Trade accounts payable	10,994,434	10,485,931
	Accrued liabilities	4,922,587	5,119,206
	Operating lease liabilities	—	120,938
	Deferred income	4,304,667	5,882,276
	Current portion of long-term debt	23,333,814	20,722,094
Total current liabilities		43,943,632	45,369,564

Non current liabilities
	Operating lease liabilities	—	81,424
	Deferred income	213,563	586,577
	Long-term debt	61,555,855	30,251,709
Total non current liabilities		61,769,418	30,919,710
Total liabilities		105,713,050	76,289,274

Commitments and contingencies

Stockholders’ equity
	Capital stock	370,414	371,664
	Treasury stock	—	(1,057,343	)
	Additional paid-in capital	409,912,934	411,808,336
	Retained earnings	215,855,858	229,963,538
	Accumulated other comprehensive income	387,608	280,577
Total stockholders’ equity		626,526,814	641,366,772
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity		732,239,864	717,656,046

StealthGas Inc.
Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(Expressed in United States Dollars)

		Three Months Period Ended March 31,
		2024		2025

Cash flows from operating activities
	Net income for the period	17,729,716		14,107,680

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash
provided by operating activities:
	Depreciation	6,492,376		6,653,460
	Amortization of deferred finance charges	258,295		508,464
	Amortization of operating lease right-of-use assets	24,745		29,194
	Share based compensation	1,345,409		1,540,402
	Change in fair value of derivatives	108,840		—
	Proceeds from disposal of interest rate swaps	1,018,000		—
	Equity earnings in joint ventures	(2,580,101	)	(2,174,332	)
	Dividends received from joint ventures	–		2,634,000
	Impairment loss	–		488,400
	Gain on sale of vessels	(46,384	)	—
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
	(Increase)/decrease in
	Trade and other receivables	(35,143	)	(964,946	)
	Other current assets	129,193		(228,903	)
	Inventories	353,756		693,119
	Changes in operating lease liabilities	(24,745	)	(29,194	)
	Advances and prepayments	(159,743	)	183,949
	Increase/(decrease) in
	Balances with related parties	(1,390,625	)	2,650,989
	Trade accounts payable	(475,368	)	(508,503	)
	Accrued liabilities	240,202		196,619
	Deferred income	688,600		1,950,623
Net cash provided by operating activities		23,677,023		27,731,021

Cash flows from investing activities
	Proceeds from sale of vessels, net	34,679,584		—
	Acquisition and improvements of vessels	(96,413,470	)	—
	Advances to joint ventures	(1,705	)	—
Net cash used in investing activities		(61,735,591	)	—

Cash flows from financing activities
	Proceeds from exercise of stock options	356,250		356,250
	Stock repurchase	(338,176	)	(1,057,343	)
	Deferred finance charges paid	(22,167	)	—
	Advances to joint ventures	(11,848	)	—
	Loan repayments	(32,045,235	)	(34,424,330	)
	Proceeds from long-term debt	70,000,000		—
Net cash provided by/(used in) financing activities		37,938,824		(35,125,423	)

Net decrease in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash		(119,744	)	(7,394,402	)
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period		83,755,701		84,521,150
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period		83,635,957		77,126,748
Cash breakdown
	Cash and cash equivalents	77,085,417		74,392,306
	Restricted cash, current	—		—
	Restricted cash, non current	6,550,540		2,734,442
Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash shown in the statements of cash flows		83,635,957		77,126,748

The MIL Network –

May 29, 2025

MIL-OSI Russia: Fujian Coast Guard Patrols Waters Near Kinmen Islands /Detailed Version-1/

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

FUZHOU, May 28 (Xinhua) — The Fujian Provincial Coast Guard conducted regular law enforcement patrols in waters near the Kinmen Islands on Wednesday, the China Coast Guard said in a statement.

Since early May, the local coast guard has been continuously stepping up patrols of the waters off Kinmen to carry out special law enforcement operations related to the summer fishing moratorium, said Zhu Anqing, spokesman for the East China Sea Division of the China Coast Guard.

This, he said, has effectively strengthened the management and control of the relevant waters, properly protected the legitimate rights and interests, as well as the safety of life and property of Chinese fishermen, including those from Taiwan, and reliably ensured normal shipping and operational procedures in the Xiamen-Jinmen marine area. -0-

MIL OSI Russia News –

May 29, 2025

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