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Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI Security: Athens Tax Preparer Sentenced to Prison for Filing Over $3.5 Million in False Returns

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    Defendant Received a Portion of Proceeds from Clients’ Fraudulent Pandemic Benefit Claims

    MACON, Ga. – A tax preparer who admitted to filing more than $3.5 million in fraudulent tax returns tied to a multi-state investigation of a COVID-19 pandemic unemployment benefit scheme in which she received a percentage of the ill-gotten gains was sentenced to serve eight years in prison for her crime.

    Jessica Crawford, 34, of Athens, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 96 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release by U.S. District Judge Tilman E. “Tripp” Self, III on May 8. Crawford previously pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud and one count of aiding and assisting in preparing and presenting false income tax returns on Nov. 22, 2024. There is no parole in the federal system.

    “Federal law enforcement uncovered a large-scale tax return scheme during the pandemic that was costing taxpayers while benefiting fraudsters,” said Acting U.S. Attorney C. Shanelle Booker. “Alongside our law enforcement partners, federal prosecutors will continue to uphold the law and pursue justice in these cases.”

    “Jessica Crawford used her position as a tax preparer to defraud the U.S. government through a CARES Act program intended for those unemployed because of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Atlanta Field Office Assistant Special Agent in Charge Lisa Fontanette. “In addition, she continued her theft of taxpayers’ money by fraudulently filing tax returns on behalf of her clients. The sentencing Crawford received should serve notice to unscrupulous tax preparers that IRS Criminal Investigation special agents and our law enforcement partners will continue investigating and holding them accountable for their unethical conduct.”

    “Jessica Crawford lied and took advantage of funds designed to help those who were truly in need during the pandemic,” said Paul Brown, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “The FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue to identify and hold accountable anyone who defrauds taxpayers.”

    According to court documents and statements made in court, FBI agents investigating a multi-state unemployment benefit scheme conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic discovered text messages between individuals involved in the scheme and Crawford, a tax preparer with Crawford Tax Services in Athens. Crawford filed for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) benefits on behalf of those individuals who had created fake businesses or submitted false information to fraudulently obtain benefits. In return, Crawford received a percentage of the ill-gotten gains.

    Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations (IRS-CI) agents executed an undercover operation at Crawford’s business in April 2022 as part of the continuing investigation. The undercover agent (UA) met Crawford to have taxes prepared, and Crawford asked if the UA did anything on the side. At first, the UA responded no, but Crawford said that expenses could be deducted if he did, and the UA said he mowed an aunt’s lawn sometimes, which Crawford said was good enough. The UA did not provide any income or expense amounts. Still, Crawford created a Schedule C business for landscaping on the UA’s federal income tax return based solely on that interaction. Crawford prepared a Form 1040 and filed electronically, including a fictitious Schedule C loss of $19,373, and claimed an Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), a Child Tax Credit (CTC), and a Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction, which were affected by the fraudulent Schedule C loss. As a result, the UA’s return claimed a fraudulent federal income tax refund of $12,359.

    The IRS completed a statistical review of 1,261 total tax returns filed by Crawford in tax years 2020 and 2021. Of those, the IRS determined that Crawford fraudulently filed tax returns on behalf of clients, resulting in losses to the IRS exceeding $3 million from falsely claimed Form 7202 credits for sick leave and family leave, tax credits and dependent care credits.

    The case was investigated by the FBI and the IRS-CI.

    Criminal Chief Leah E. McEwen prosecuted the case for the Government.

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 10, 2025
  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Trade Minister travels to UK & Korea for trade talks

    Source: NZ Music Month takes to the streets

    Trade and Investment, and Agriculture Minister, Todd McClay travels to the United Kingdom today to participate in the first in-person joint NZ UK Ministerial Trade Committee and to mark the two-year anniversary of the entry into force of the New Zealand United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement (FTA). 

    “Better access to overseas markets is an important part of the Government’s economic plan to grow the economy and create better paying jobs, Minister McClay says. 

    The NZ-UK FTA has seen a 21 per cent boost in Kiwi exports worth an additional $644.4 million over the two years since the deal came into force. This is delivering real benefits for Kiwi exporters.

    “The results speak for themselves —goods exports to the UK have risen by 20 per cent, and services exports are up over 22 per cent in just two years, Mr McClay says. 

    “And the primary sector is leading the way with big increases in food and fibre exports along with travel and tech.   

    • Meat exports are up 46% to nearly $500 million
    • Dairy exports are up a staggering 139% worth $198 million
    • Fruit and nuts are up 52% worth $54 million
    • Travel service exports are up 22% to nearly $1 billion
    • Tech-related services exports are up 50% to $221 million 

    While in the UK, Minister McClay will meet with his trade and agriculture counterparts, the Rt Hon Jonathan Reynolds, Secretary of State for Business and Trade, Rt Hon Steve Reed OBE, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, as well as the UK Trade Envoy to New Zealand, Carolyn Harris.

    He will also engage with key partners and stakeholders, including Waitrose and the National Farmers Union, visit local farms, and connect with New Zealand businesses operating in London.

    The UK is New Zealand’s 7th largest trading partner, with two-way trade worth $7.27 billion. In 2024, New Zealand exported $3.69 billion in goods and services to the UK

    Minister McClay will then travel from the UK to Korea on Tuesday of next week to participate in the APEC Trade Ministers meeting where he will hold bilateral meetings with APEC and CPTPP trading partners.  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    May 10, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to conference poster about obesity drugs (GLP-1s) and alcohol intake

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    May 9, 2025

    A conference poster presented at the European Congress on Obesity (ECO) looks at weight loss drugs (GLP-1s) and reduced alcohol intake. 

    Prof Kevin McConway, Emeritus Professor of Applied Statistics, Open University, said:

    “Usually, when I’m asked to comment on a press release about a poster or talk being presented at a research conference, there’s not a lot that I can say about the quality of the work.  All I would typically have is a short press release, and a poster or a summary of talk that hasn’t been given yet.  The work wouldn’t have been through full peer review.  So there’s very little to go on, and usually a lot of unanswered questions.

    “But this one is different. This is not new work. The press release includes a link to the research report that was submitted to a journal in November last year, went through peer review, and appeared in the journal at the start of 2025.  The press release, and the conference poster that is also linked from the release, appear just to give some of the same details that are already in the published research report1.

    “The research report, the poster and the press release all mention that the study has some important limitations.  The study is observational and there was not a control group that received none of the drugs in question (liraglutide or semaglutide).  Thus we can’t be certain how much of the observed reduction in alcohol consumption is actually due to the drugs that the participants were taking.  Even though the average consumption reductions are pretty large, the participants were all being treated and all knew they were being treated with one or other of the drugs, and may have chosen to change their alcohol intake for reasons not caused by the drugs, in addition to any changes actually caused by taking the drugs.

    “The report does not present any data on what happened to alcohol consumption in the longer term, or after the participants stopped taking the drugs (if they did stop).  The alcohol consumption figures were reported by the participants themselves, so may not be accurate, and the level of inaccuracy in the before and after consumption figures may be different.  And a lot of the participants who started the study did not in the end provide data.  More than a quarter of the 262 patients who were originally in the study didn’t continue to the end of the study, and some who did continue were either non-drinkers or did not provide data on the actual amounts the consumed.  So the overall average change in consumption is based on data from 86 people only.  And the most dramatic reductions in consumption, in people who originally said they drank more than 10 units per week, are based on data from only 30 people.

    “These limitations are why the researchers (rightly) ask for larger, controlled and randomised trials, for research to investigate how these drugs operate in the body to reduce alcohol consumption (if indeed they do), and to look at which patients are appropriate for treatment.

    “However, this study is very far from the only work that has been done on drugs from this class (GLP-1 RAs) and reduction in alcohol consumption.  A quick Google search turns up many more.  The research report mentions a study in laboratory animals (reference 4) and there are other animal studies.  There have been observational studies, some of them involving large numbers of participants2.  There have been (small) randomised controlled trials3.  And there have recently been (at least) two review papers4.  This newly press-released conference poster certainly isn’t the latest state of the art, I’d say.”

     

    1 The report (a ‘research letter’) is at https://doi.org/10.1111/dom.16152 . There is a minor typo in the press release; it says that, overall, the average alcohol consumption fell from 11.3 to 4.3 units/week, whereas the research paper and the poster say it fell from 11.8 to 4.3 units/week.

    2 e.g. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-48780-6

    3 e.g. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2024.4789, comment on for SMC at https://www.sciencemediacentre.org/expert-reaction-to-study-looking-at-once-weekly-semaglutide-in-adults-with-alcohol-use-disorder/

    4 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eclinm.2024.102920 and https://doi.org/10.1210/endocr/bqaf028

     

    Mr Colin Angus, Professor of Alcohol Policy, Sheffield Addictions Research Group, University of Sheffield, said:

    “This study follows a few hundred patients attending an obesity clinic who were prescribed GLP-1 weight loss drugs and finds that they were drinking significantly less after around 4 months.  However, as this study has no control group, we have no way of knowing whether this reduction was related to their use of GLP-1, or a broader consequence of their efforts to tackle obesity.  Whilst it is plausible that GLP-1 drugs might have some impact on alcohol consumption, it is also likely that people trying to lose weight would reduce their alcohol consumption anyway, either as part of a more general move towards healthier behaviours, or because alcohol is relatively calorific.  So we have no way of knowing from this study what proportion, if any, of the observed reduction is down to the GLP-1 drugs.  Only with a higher quality study incorporating a control group could we have any confidence that GLP-1 drugs are leading people to reduce their alcohol intake.”

     

    Dr Stephen Burgess, Statistician at the MRC Biostatistics Unit, University of Cambridge, said:

    “This is an observational study investigating the impact of weight loss drugs on alcohol intake.  It isn’t a randomized trial, so it isn’t blinded, and there is no control group.  In general, this sort of research is vulnerable to problems of confounding – differences between alcohol intake pre- and post-treatment may occur for reasons other than a causal effect of weight loss drugs on alcohol consumption levels.  For example, it may be that people cut down on their drinking spontaneously due to taking medication.  However, the findings are striking and consistent across study participants.  No study participant reported their alcohol consumption was higher after treatment.  The average reduction in alcohol consumption pre- versus post-treatment was around 7 units per week, which is a large difference.  It is possible that some participants are falsely reporting lower consumption, and it’s possible that some participants who are drinking more post-treatment are refusing to volunteer information – we only have quantifiable alcohol consumption levels available for around 35% of eligible patients.  But the magnitude of difference in reported alcohol consumption pre- versus post-treatment is so large that it is implausible that other factors explain the totality of the difference.  These results provide suggestive evidence that weight loss drugs could be used to treat alcohol addiction.  We await evidence from randomized controlled trials with blinding to strengthen the evidence supporting this finding.”

     

     

     

    Poster title: ‘Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Analogs Reduce Alcohol Intake’ by FI Almohaileb et al.

    This was presented at the European Congress on Obesity. The embargo lifted at 3:01 UK time on Friday 9 May 2025

     

     

    Declared interests

    Prof Kevin McConway: “Previously a Trustee of the SMC and a member of its Advisory Committee.”

    Mr Colin Angus: “No conflicts to declare.”

    Dr Stephen Burgess: “I have previously consulted for Eli Lilly (one of the manufacturers of GLP-1 drugs), but not specifically about GLP-1 drugs.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 10, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen, Cassidy Introduce Legislation to Protect Sensitive Federal Data from CCP-Owned DeepSeek, Adversarial AI Technologies

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) introduced a bill to protect sensitive federal data from adversarial nations like the People’s Republic of China (PRC). The bipartisan Protection Against Foreign Adversarial Artificial Intelligence Act would prohibit federal contractors from using DeepSeek, an artificial intelligence (AI) platform with direct ties to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), to fulfill contracts with federal agencies. DeepSeek poses a significant potential national security threat and is required by Chinese law to share the data it collects with the Chinese government and its intelligence agencies. Several U.S. states and allied nations have already moved to block DeepSeek from government devices due to critical security concerns.
    “The U.S. must take steps to ensure Americans’ data and our government systems are protected against cyber threats from foreign adversaries,” said Senator Rosen. “This bipartisan legislation would prevent federal contractors from using Deepseek, a CCP-linked AI platform, when carrying out government work. I will continue working across party lines to bolster our national security and protect Americans’ data.”
    “AI is a powerful tool which can be used to enhance things like medicine and education. But in the wrong hands, it can be weaponized. By feeding sensitive data into systems like DeepSeek, we give China another weapon,” said Dr. Cassidy.
    Specifically, the Protection Against Foreign Adversarial Artificial Intelligence Act would:
    Prohibit federal contractors with an active federal contract from using DeepSeek, and any successor application developed by High-Flyer, for contracts with the federal government. 
    Include a report to Congress from the U.S. Secretary of Commerce, in consultation with the U.S. Secretary of Defense, on the national security and economic espionage threats posed by AI platforms from adversarial nations, such as China, North Korea, Iran, and Russia.
    As the first and only former computer programmer to serve in the Senate, Senator Rosen has led the fight to strengthen the nation’s cybersecurity. Earlier this year, she introduced bipartisan legislation to prohibit the use of DeepSeek on all government devices and networks. Last year, Rosen called on the Department of Health and Human Services and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency to create a plan to help health care systems respond to cyberattacks like the recent ransomware attack on Change Healthcare. Additionally, Senator Rosen’s bipartisan Department of Defense Civilian Cybersecurity Reserve Act became law to recruit civilian cybersecurity personnel to serve in reserve capacities and respond to cyberattacks during times of need.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 10, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Xi Jinping Calls for Advancing Construction of Chinese-Serbian Community of Shared Future

    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

    Moscow, May 9 /Xinhua/ — China and Serbia should develop unbreakable friendship, strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation and advance the high-quality construction of a China-Serbia community with a shared future, Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Friday.

    Xi Jinping made the statement during a meeting with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic on the sidelines of celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory in the Great Patriotic War.

    Recalling his successful state visit to Serbia last May, Xi Jinping noted that over the past year, the construction of a Chinese-Serbian community with a shared future in the new era has made a good start and brought results that are obvious to all.

    As the world undergoes accelerated changes unseen in a century and numerous risks and challenges pile up, China and Serbia must maintain strategic resolve and focus on doing their own affairs well, Xi said.

    China, the PRC Chairman continued, is ready to deepen strategic communication with Serbia, strengthen mutual support, enhance trade and investment cooperation, continue to support the construction and operation of relevant projects, fully utilize their demonstration effect and achieve new results that bring mutual benefit and common gain.

    Xi Jinping stressed that 80 years ago, the peoples of China and Serbia made important contributions to the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War in the Asian and European theatres of war, respectively.

    China hopes to work with all countries in the world, including Serbia, to confront challenges through unity and cooperation, jointly uphold world peace, international fairness and justice, safeguard the achievements of economic globalization, and promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind, the Chinese leader added.

    A. Vučić, for his part, noted that China is Serbia’s most valuable friend, which constantly offers its selfless support and assistance to help Serbia develop its economy and improve the well-being of its people.

    Serbia firmly adheres to the one-China principle and consistently proceeds from the fact that Taiwan is an integral part of Chinese territory, the president assured.

    Serbia is ready to expand trade and economic exchanges with China, A. Vucic continued, stating that his country invites even more Chinese enterprises to invest and establish business in Serbia and will create a favorable business environment for them.

    The President expressed hope that China will take an active part in the specialized exhibition EXPO-2027 in Belgrade.

    A. Vucic praised China’s continued support for multilateralism, noting that China’s ideas and actions strengthen the courage and confidence of the international community in protecting common interests.

    Serbia expects to work together with China to counter the challenges of unilateralism and protectionism, A. Vucic added. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 10, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Targeted phishing attack on schools and early years network

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    This afternoon we noticed some unusual e-mail activity on our schools and early years IT network.

    As a precautionary measure we have reset passwords across our schools and early years network – including those of our learners and students. 

    We have issued communications to all parents/carers and schools to advise of the phishing attempt and explain the action that we have had to take to make sure our IT networks remain secure and protected.

    Schools and early years staff will be prompted to reset their own password on their return to school.

    Students currently sitting exams will be given priority support to reset their password. They can access their personal revision materials by going to their school tomorrow (Saturday 10 May) between 10.15am -12 noon and a member of staff will issue them with a new password.

    Study resources are also available on the information for parents/carers webpage on the Council’s website.

    Education, Children and Families Convener Councillor James Dalgleish said:

    This afternoon vigilant colleagues noticed some unusual and suspicious activity on our schools and early years IT network.

    As a result, we took the precautionary decision to immediately reset passwords for all users across our education service.

    We have contacted all parents, carers and schools to update them and explain the situation.

    I fully appreciate the impact this will have, particularly on those students preparing for their exams next week – but, unfortunately, we had no choice. This was a difficult but necessary decision to ensure our networks remain secure and protected.

    I want to reassure our students that they are our priority and that we are doing everything we can to make sure they can get back online as soon as possible. In the meantime, we are signposting them study support materials available elsewhere and individual schools will be uploading these to their websites too.

    We have created a dedicated webpage on the council website and will update this with further information as and when we get it.

    I’d like to thank colleagues for their vigilance and quick thinking today – and for their ongoing work over the weekend to minimise the impact on our students and their families.

    No data has been compromised. We have been in touch with SQA and EIS to make them aware of this attempted phishing incident.  We are also keeping Scottish Government’s cyber co-ordination centre updated.

    Published: May 9th 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 10, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: European leaders set to travel to Kyiv as the US, France, Germany, Poland and the UK call for 30-day ceasefire

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    European leaders set to travel to Kyiv as the US, France, Germany, Poland and the UK call for 30-day ceasefire

    The leaders of France, Germany, Poland and the UK will be in Kyiv tomorrow as calls intensify for Russia to agree a ceasefire and come to the negotiating table.

    The leaders of France, Germany, Poland and the UK will be in Kyiv tomorrow as calls intensify for Russia to agree a ceasefire and come to the negotiating table.

    President Emmanuel Macron, Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Prime Minister Donald Tusk and Prime Minister Keir Starmer are expected to meet President Zelenskyy in Kyiv on Saturday morning, underlining their steadfast commitment to Ukraine.

    The historic visit, which is the first time the leaders of the four countries have travelled together to Ukraine – and Chancellor Merz’ first visit to Ukraine as Germany’s new Chancellor – comes as they and President Trump call for Russia to agree to a 30-day ceasefire to allow for unfettered peace talks.

    In a joint statement, the leaders said:

    “We, the leaders of France, Germany, Poland the United Kingdom will stand in Kyiv in solidarity with Ukraine against Russia’s barbaric and illegal full-scale invasion.

    “We reiterate our backing for President Trump’s calls for a peace deal and call on Russia to stop obstructing efforts to secure an enduring peace.

    “Alongside the US, we call on Russia to agree a full and unconditional 30-day ceasefire to create the space for talks on a just and lasting peace.

    “We are ready to support peace talks as soon as possible, to discuss technical implementation of the ceasefire, and prepare for a full peace deal. 

    “We are clear the bloodshed must end, Russia must stop its illegal invasion, and Ukraine must be able to prosper as a safe, secure and sovereign nation within its internationally recognised borders for generations to come.

    “We will continue to increase our support for Ukraine. Until Russia agrees to an enduring ceasefire, we will ratchet up pressure on Russia’s war machine.”

    During the visit, the leaders are expected pay their respects to the fallen defenders and casualties of Russia’s war on the Maidan, where flags are placed by Ukrainians to remember those killed.

    Later in the day, the leaders are expected to host a virtual meeting, alongside President Zelenskyy, to update leaders on the progress being made for a future coalition of an air, land, maritime and regeneration force that would help regenerate Ukraine’s armed forces after any peace deal and strengthen confidence in any future peace.

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    Published 9 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 10, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China holds an executive meeting of the State Council

    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 9 (Xinhua) — Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Friday chaired an executive meeting of the State Council to study and implement the guiding spirit of the important speech delivered by Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, at the meeting on China’s economic and social development during the implementation of the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030).

    The State Council meeting also heard a report on improving the quality and efficiency of pilot free trade zones, studied measures to deepen reforms and innovations in national-level economic and technological development zones, reviewed and approved a draft regulation on the joint use of government data, discussed a national plan for the deployment of a water transport safety and rescue control system for 2025-2035, and gave orders to improve industrial safety.

    The meeting participants emphasized the importance of rationally defining goals and objectives in various areas for the 15th Five-Year Plan period.

    The need to ensure that pilot free trade zones comply with high standards of international trade and economic rules and to continue promoting institutional innovation was noted.

    The meeting called for deepening reforms and innovations in national-level economic and technological development zones and promoting deep reforms and high-quality development of the country through high-level external openness.

    Participants pointed out the need to establish a national integrated government big data system, promote the integrated application of information resources, enhance social governance capabilities and develop industrial ecosystem, so as to inject new impetus into economic development.

    The meeting also noted the need to accelerate the creation of a modern water transport safety and rescue control system, strengthen coordination and interaction between relevant departments and local authorities, intensify innovation in the field of basic equipment and key technologies, create conditions for attracting public capital to participate in large-scale engineering control and rescue projects, providing reliable support for building a powerful transport power.

    In addition, participants emphasized the need to carefully identify risks and hidden dangers and resolutely prevent major accidents at work. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 10, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Moscow hosts parade dedicated to 80th anniversary of Victory in Great Patriotic War

    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

    Moscow, May 9 (Xinhua) — A grand military parade was held on Moscow’s Red Square on May 9 to mark the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory in the Great Patriotic War. Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke in his speech about the need to remember the lessons of World War II, not to allow history to be distorted, and to remember all those who gave their lives for the Victory.

    More than 11,500 servicemen and over 180 units of equipment took part in the Victory Parade. Leaders from over 20 countries were present. Representatives of all strata of Russian society and veterans from various countries who participated in the war against fascism were on the podium.

    “Today, we are all united by feelings of joy and sorrow, pride and gratitude, admiration for the generation that crushed Nazism and, at the cost of millions of lives, won freedom and peace for all of humanity,” said V. Putin.

    “We remember the lessons of World War II and will never agree with the distortion of its events, with attempts to justify the executioners and slander the true victors,” the Russian leader emphasized.

    In memory of the fallen, the Russian President declared a minute of silence.

    V. Putin noted that the complete defeat of Nazi Germany, militaristic Japan and their satellites was achieved through the joint efforts of the countries of the anti-Hitler coalition.

    “We will always remember that the opening of the second front in Europe – after the decisive battles on the territory of the Soviet Union – brought Victory closer. We highly value the contribution to our common struggle of the soldiers of the allied armies, the participants of the Resistance, the courageous people of China. All those who fought for a peaceful future,” added the head of the Russian state. “Glory to the victorious people!”

    Servicemen from the Ministry of Defense and other law enforcement agencies of the Russian Federation – the Federal Security Service, the Ministry of Emergency Situations, the Russian National Guard, cadets from military schools and academies of the Russian army and navy, and members of the youth patriotic organization Yunarmiya marched in a ceremonial march across Red Square.

    This was followed by parade units from friendly states: China, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Egypt, Vietnam and other countries.

    The mechanized column consisted of 183 units of combat equipment from the Great Patriotic War and modern models in service with the Russian army: T-90M Proryv, T-72B3M and T-80BVM tanks, BMP-2M and BMP-3 infantry fighting vehicles, BMD-4 airborne combat vehicles, BRM-1K combat reconnaissance vehicles, BTR-82A armored personnel carriers, Tigr-M armored vehicles, transport vehicles, S-400 anti-aircraft missile systems, Iskander-M missile systems, Yars strategic missile systems, Orlan-10, Orlan-30, Lancet-51, Lancet-52, and Geran unmanned aerial vehicles.

    For the first time, modern models of the Tornado-S multiple launch rocket systems, the Tosochka heavy flamethrower systems, and the Malva and Giatsint-K artillery systems took part in the parade.

    The parade was completed by pilots of the aerobatic teams “Russian Knights” and “Swifts” on Su-30 and MiG-29 fighters. Six Su-25 attack aircraft closed the parade formation.

    After the parade, Russian and foreign leaders laid flowers at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier near the Kremlin Wall.

    In addition to Moscow, military parades dedicated to the 80th anniversary of Victory were held in 27 other Russian cities, including St. Petersburg, Volgograd, Yekaterinburg, Khabarovsk and Vladivostok. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 10, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Mauritania: IMF Reaches Staff-Level Agreement on Fourth Review of Extended Fund and Extended Credit Facilities and the Third Review of Resilience and Sustainability Facility

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    May 9, 2025

    End-of-Mission press releases include statements of IMF staff teams that convey preliminary findings after a visit to a country. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF’s Executive Board for discussion and decision.

    • The Mauritanian authorities and IMF staff have reached staff-level agreement on the Fourth Review of Mauritania’s economic program under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and Extended Credit Facility (ECF), and the Third Review of the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF).
    • Economic activity was stronger than expected in 2024, and is projected to decelerate slightly in 2025, reflecting a contraction in the extractive sector.
    • Pursuing the authorities’ rule-based fiscal policy and exchange rate flexibility will help support the economy’s resilience amid heightened global uncertainty; and executing the national governance action plan, in line with best practices, will foster the role of the private sector in the economy.

    Washington, DC: An International Monetary Fund (IMF) team, led by Felix Fischer, visited Nouakchott and Nouadhibou during April 28– May 9, 2025 to hold discussions on the Fourth Review of Mauritania’s economic program under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and the Extended Credit Facility (ECF), and the Third Review of the RSF arrangement. At the end of the mission, Mr. Fischer issued the following statement:

    “The Mauritanian authorities and IMF staff have reached a staff level agreement on policies to complete the Fourth Review of Mauritania’s 42-month blended EFF/ECF-supported program and the Third review of the RSF. Subject to approval by the IMF Executive Board, Mauritania will receive a disbursement of SDR 6.4 million (about $ 8.6 million) under the ECF and EFF arrangements and SDR 14.86 million (about $ 20.1 million) under the RSF arrangement, bringing the total disbursement under the EFF/ECF and the RST to SDR 111 million (about $ 148.4 million).

    “Economic activity was stronger than expected, with a growth rate of 5.2 percent in 2024, higher than the initial projection of 4.6 percent. Economic growth rate in 2025 is projected to decelerate to 4.0 percent, due to a contraction in the extractive sector. The medium-term outlook remains broadly positive assuming further reforms will be implemented to diversify the economy and lift non-extractive economic growth.

    “Performance under the program is broadly on track— all quantitative targets for end-December 2024 have been met. The fiscal adjustment was in line with the program targets due to higher tax revenue and spending restraint. The authorities’ commitment to a rule-based fiscal policy and exchange rate flexibility serves the country well in the context of heightened global uncertainty, and will help preserve macroeconomic stability and enhance resilience to shocks.

    “The authorities committed to maintain the non-extractive primary deficit at MRU 15.4 billion (3.4 percent of GDP) in 2025. Improved domestic revenue mobilization and better spending efficiency will help create fiscal space to meet Mauritania’s significant development needs while preserving the medium-term budget credibility.

    “The IMF team welcomed the recent progress in structural reforms, including enacting the central bank and banking laws and the new investment code. They encouraged authorities to move swiftly to finalize the implementing decrees of the laws on SOEs, the investment code, and the free zone of Nouadhibou. Steadfast execution of the homegrown Governance Action Plan, including the laws on the declaration of assets and interests and the anti-corruption authority, in line with the best practices, will foster transparency and accountability and enhance the business climate.

    “The authorities continue to advance their climate agenda to strengthen Mauritania’s resilience to climate change. The parliament introduced the climate contribution and adopted regulations allowing access of private energy producers to power transmission infrastructure. The mission discussed next steps towards introducing the automatic fuel price mechanism and stressed the importance of scaling up well-targeted compensatory measures to mitigate the effects on the vulnerable households.

    “The team met with His Excellency President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani, President of the National Assembly Mohamed Ould Megett, Prime Minister Mokhtar Ould Diay, Governor of the Central Bank Mohamed Lamine Ould Dhehby, Minister of Economy and Finance Sid’Ahmed Bouh, Minister of Justice Mohamed Boya, Minister of Energy and Oil Mohamed Ould Khaled, Minister of Mining and Industry Thiam Tidjani, Minister of Hydraulics and Sanitation Amal Mint Mouloud, Minister Delegate in charge of the Budget Codioro Moussa N’guénore, other senior government officials, the civil society, the banking association and other representatives of the private sector, and the donor community.

    “The IMF team would like to thank the Mauritanian authorities and various stakeholders for the excellent hospitality and cooperation and candid discussions during the mission.”

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Mayada Ghazala

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

    @IMFSpokesperson

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/05/09/pr-25138-mauritania-imf-reaches-agreement-4th-rev-of-ef-and-ecf-and-3rd-rev-of-rsf

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 10, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Ahead of Mother’s Day, Senator Murray, King County Executive Braddock, Moms and Local Parents Slam Trump’s “Baby” Tax, Painful Unnecessary Price Hikes for Families

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    Washington Post: Trump’s tariffs hit baby industry hard, threatening parents with price hikes, shortages

    Axios: “Baby tax”: Trump tariffs send baby gear prices soaring

    *** B-ROLL AND PHOTOS HERE***

    Seattle, WA — Today, ahead of Mother’s Day, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, held a press conference at WestSide Baby in Seattle to highlight how President Trump’s chaotic trade war is raising costs on moms and families across the board. Trump’s sweeping tariffs are the highest in decades, and are estimated to cost American families more than $4,000 per year—the largest tax increase since 1968.

    Senator Murray was joined by King County Executive Shannon Braddock, Executive Director of WestSideBaby Allie Lindsay Johnson, Brittney Geleynse owner of Clover Toys, and local moms and parents who all outlined how Trump’s tariffs are already raising the cost of items moms need for their families, purchases that can’t be pushed off—from car seats and strollers, to high chairs, kids clothes, and cribs.

    The press conference comes as new reporting lays out how Trump’s tariffs are making it more expensive to raise kids, driving up prices on children’s products and threatening shortages of critical baby gear at a time when household budgets are already under strain.

    “The last thing any mom wants right now is higher costs for things like diapers, high chairs, and car seats—but that is exactly what Donald Trump is delivering with his nonsense trade war,” said Senator Murray. “His across-the-board tariffs are already raising prices for new moms and families. With all the costs new parents are going to have to pay for these goods, Trump has essentially announced a new ‘baby’ tax. If you are a billionaire, Republicans are getting ready to give you a massive tax break. But babies? Moms? Dads? Trump says you are out of luck. Yes, Trump’s ‘baby’ tax is going to mean fewer toys, smaller birthdays—but it is also going to mean parents struggling to buy high chairs or specialty formula, struggling to buy a safe bassinet, or a stroller, or a car seat.”

    “Well, my message to moms is: I got into politics to fight for moms like me—and I am never going to stop,” continued Senator Murray. “I know what you are going through, all the things you already have to worry about. You should not have to worry about Trump’s new baby tax driving up costs as well. Congress CAN reverse these tariffs—we could do it next week if Republicans chose to. So, I am going to be lifting up your voices, and using mine—to push for Congress to act and demand this administration reverse their incredibly damaging price hikes on families.”

    “Tariffs that drive up the cost of baby essentials like car seats, strollers and diapers aren’t just bad economics—they’re bad values,” said King County Executive Shannon Braddock. “Working families are the ones who pay the price. We need real leadership in Washington, D.C., and I’m grateful Senator Murray is standing with us in this fight.” 

    “Children should not be the casualties of a trade war. Items like car seats, strollers, and cribs aren’t luxuries—they’re critical for a child’s safety and development. At WestSide Baby, we regularly see parents forced to choose between paying rent or buying a car seat. For families facing poverty or sudden financial strain, even small price increases can mean going without or making unsafe compromises,” said Allie Lindsay Johnson, Executive Director of WestSide Baby.

    “As a parent, I want the best possible future for my children. I want to give them the tools and opportunities to get ahead in life, not put limits on what they can do. But Trump’s unnecessary tariffs are increasing prices on my baby’s basic needs like his formula, stroller, and car seat,” said Salia Gartrell, a public school teacher and mother of four from Kent, WA. “My family isn’t the only one feeling the financial squeeze from these bad tariffs. Even though my boys are active in their community, and my husband and I work hard to give them every opportunity, the rising costs of living that are due to bad policies like Trump’s Baby Tax leave me and my husband no other choice but to cut back on what our kids can do.”

    “Tariffs on imported toys present a significant operational challenge for Clover Toys, directly impacting our costs and forcing us to navigate complex pricing and inventory decisions,” said Brittney Geleynse owner of Clover Toys. “We are committed to our customers and the Seattle community, and we’re working hard to manage these pressures while continuing to offer the curated selection they expect from their local toy store.”

    Senator Murray has been a vocal opponent of Trump’s chaotic trade war from the very start and has been lifting up the voices of people in Washington state harmed by this administration’s approach to trade and calling on Republicans to end Trump’s trade war—which Congress has the power to do—and take back Congress’ Constitutionally-granted power to impose tariffs. Earlier last month, Senator Murray brought together leaders across Washington state who highlighted how Trump’s ongoing trade war is already a devastating hit to Washington state’s economy, businesses, and our agriculture sector. Senator Murray also took to the Senate floor to lay out how Trump’s chaotic trade war is seriously threatening our economy, American businesses, families’ retirement savings, and so much else.

    Murray has also been sounding the alarm on Trump’s tariffs across Washington state. Recently, Senator Murray held a roundtable discussion in Tacoma with local businesses and ports, met with farmers in Yakima to discuss the consequences of Trump’s tariffs, and held a roundtable discussion in Vancouver at a local metal fabrication company to highlight how Trump’s trade war is hurting businesses and our economy Washington state. Last month, Senator Murray met with small business owners in Seattle’s University District to hear how Trump’s tariffs and the broader economic uncertainty are affecting them, and later she met with farmers in Skagit County to discuss tariffs, and visited Blaine near the Canadian border to highlight the impacts of Trump’s trade war. Just last week, Senator Murray rallied her West Coast colleagues and ports from Washington state and California to sound the alarm on how Trump’s tariffs will mean bare shelves, higher prices, and painful layoffs.

    From Groundwork Collaborative – Trump’s Tariffs are increasing prices on everything:

    Car seats: UPPAbaby, a major manufacturer of car seats and strollers, announced increased prices across most of its products beginning May 5. Nuna has increased prices by $50, and Evenflo has increased prices by 10-40%.

    • This represents a major challenge for parents, as car seats – which can run over $400 – are required by law in all 50 states and should be bought new due to safety concerns.
    • New parents spend, on average, $1,000 on baby safety gear.

    Strollers: To put it in Trump’s words, prices are rising for “the thing that you carry the babies around in.” UPPAbaby’s popular Vista stroller just increased from $900 to $1,200. Or, for a cheaper option, Bombi’s flagship stroller now costs $225 instead of $199.

    • Few strollers are made in the U.S. Most are made in China, while others come from Italy, Taiwan, Hungary, and the Netherlands.

    Cribs: Since the average parent spends approximately $2,000 on a new nursery, it is terrible news that three-quarters of all baby furniture is made in China. The Consumer Product Safety Commission does not recommend buying used cribs, as unsafe sleep environments are the main cause of injuries and deaths with nursery products.

    • The popular smart bassinet SNOO is manufactured in China and might soon cost more than its current $1,695 price tag.

    High Chairs & Sippy Cups: The CEO of popular baby accessory brand Munchkin, Steve Dunn, said the company will increase prices on about 90% of products, likely by at least 20%. Their cheapest high chair is currently $170.

    Clothes: Carter’s has already raised prices on many items. Approximately 74% of its products are sourced from Cambodia, Vietnam, Bangladesh, and India, which now face the 10% universal tariff rate.

    Toys: About 80% of all toys imported to the U.S. come from China, according to the Toy Association. Mattel CFO Anthony DiSilvestro has warned of possible price hikes as 40% of Mattel toys come from China.

    Senator Murray’s remarks, as delivered, are below:

    “As families across the country get ready to celebrate Mother’s Day, the last thing any mom wants right now is higher costs for things like diapers, high chairs, and car seats—but that is exactly what Donald Trump is delivering with his all-out trade war. His across-the-board tariffs are ALREADY raising prices for new moms and families.

    “Because just about every single car seat sold in this country, just about every single stroller, just about every bassinet and changing table—is made somewhere else. And the vast majority of them are made in China—meaning Trump’s tariffs will jack up the cost by 145%. To say nothing of baby clothes made in other countries in the Pacific, or specialty baby formulas imported from Europe, or the materials and machinery we import—even for products made in America—like bamboo fibers in some diapers.

    “With all the costs new parents are going to have to pay for these goods, Trump has essentially announced a new “baby” tax. If you are a billionaire,  Republicans are getting ready to give you a massive tax break. But babies? Moms? Dads? Trump says you are out of luck.

    “Maybe this is hard for a billionaire who calls strollers “the thing that you carry babies around in” to understand—but most babies in America aren’t born with a golden spoon in their mouth. Parents are already struggling, the concern I hear from new parents almost more than anything else—is simply “how do we afford this?” After all, child care can cost more than college tuition and Trump’s trade war is just going to make that—and everything else—worse.

    “This isn’t about having to skimp on Christmas—though Trump has made it all too clear he’s eager to play Grinch, and toys are definitely going to get more expensive. Trump’s new taxes are making sure of that.


    “But every parent understands there is yet a bigger problem here. There are a lot of costs that are not really optional! You can’t just not buy diapers. You can’t just go without high chairs or sippy cups—even though manufactures are already warning about 20 percent price increases.

    “And—as much as they like to wriggle out of them—you can’t just go without baby clothes—even though three-quarters of them are made abroad and are about to get taxed out the wazoo. And those are just everyday necessities—don’t forget the big ticket items. No family should have to choose between cost and safety as they’re making decisions for their children.

    “Some companies have already raised stroller prices by hundreds of dollars. And then there’s cribs. The average parent already spends two thousand dollars on a crib—this is a critical item. And three-quarters of all baby furniture is made in China—meaning Trump wants to slap a 145% tax on it.

    “The same goes for car seats which are virtually all made in China. You absolutely cannot just go without a car seat, and safety experts emphasize you should not buy them used. But with Trump’s 145% tax—parents are wondering how they can even afford them at all. That’s what Trump’s trade war is doing to families! Trump’s baby tax is not just expensive for families and it is not just one more callous and careless policy from a billionaire without a clue—it is also dangerous.

    “Yes, it is going to mean fewer toys, smaller birthdays—but it is also going to mean parents struggling to buy high chairs or specialty formula, struggling to buy a safe bassinet, or a stroller, or a car seat.

    “Well my message to moms: I got into politics to fight for moms like me—and I am never going to stop. I know what you are going through, all the things you already have to worry about. You should not have to worry about Trump’s new baby tax driving up costs as well. Congress CAN reverse these tariffs—we could do it next week if Republicans chose to. So, I am going to be lifting up your voices, and using mine—to push for Congress to act and demand this administration reverse their incredibly damaging price hikes on families.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 10, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Ivorian Men Arrested for International “Sextortion” and Money Laundering Scheme Resulting in Minor’s Death

    Source: US State of California

    Four men in Côte d’Ivoire have been arrested on criminal charges relating to their role in an international “sextortion” scheme that targeted thousands of victims, including minors, throughout the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, France, Spain, and Italy.

    In February 2022, Ryan Last, a 17-year-old high school senior from San Jose, California committed suicide hours after being sextorted online by an individual pretending to be a 20-year-old woman. Through a lengthy, coordinated investigation involving U.S. and Ivorian law enforcement, the evidence ultimately led law enforcement to identify Alfred Kassi, an Ivorian citizen living in Côte d’Ivoire, as the individual allegedly conducting the sextortion. On April 29, Kassi was arrested by Ivorian law enforcement. At the time of his arrest, Kassi allegedly still had the sextortion messages he sent to the 17-year-old victim in February 2022 on his phone.

    Additionally, the investigation identified several alleged money laundering accomplices who helped Kassi move the money he received from the 17-year-old victim, who had paid $150 in order to prevent his intimate images from being disseminated. One of those alleged money launderers is Oumarou Ouedraogo, who was arrested by Ivorian law enforcement on April 25. In addition, Ivorian law enforcement arrested two other individuals, Moussa Diaby and Oumar Cisse. Both Diaby and Cisse were part of Kassi’s alleged sextortion network and admitted to their own sextortion crimes. A U.S.-based accomplice, Jonathan Kassi (unrelated to Alfred Kassi), was convicted in 2023 in a California State Court and sentenced to 18 months in jail.

    The government of Côte d’Ivoire does not extradite its own citizens, so these defendants will be prosecuted in their own country under Ivorian cybercrime statutes.

    Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Acting U.S. Attorney Patrick D. Robbins for the Northern District of California, and Acting Assistant Director Darren Cox of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division made the announcement.

    The FBI is investigating the case, with substantial assistance from the San Jose Police Department, the U.S. Embassy in Abidjan, and Meta, which provided critical information that assisted with the identification of the offenders. The government of Côte d’Ivoire, specifically the Anti-Terrorist Operational Intelligence Center (CROAT), conducted the investigation and arrests in Côte d’Ivoire.

    Trial Attorney Austin M. Berry of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Marissa Harris for the Northern District of California provided legal support throughout the investigation, including compiling and presenting the evidence to Ivorian authorities.  

    If you, your child, or someone you know is being exploited via sextortion, contact your local FBI field office, call 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324), or report it online at the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). Additional resources can found at Financially Motivated Sextortion — FBI

    All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 10, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Former D.C.-Area Attorney Charged with Tax Crimes and Making False Statements to Federal Authorities

    Source: US State of California

    An indictment was unsealed today charging an attorney with evading taxes on approximately $1 million of income, as well as filing false tax returns and making false statements to federal authorities. Richard Graham Foote O’Donoghue previously lived in Washington, D.C., but currently lives in the United Kingdom. He was arrested on entering the United States on May 9, based on the criminal charges.

    The following is according to the indictment: from 2012 through 2015, O’Donoghue made substantial income first as an independent contractor for several non-U.S. businesses, including a defense contractor based out of Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and then as CEO of that contractor. While he was CEO, O’Donoghue also allegedly received significant bonuses and benefits including a car and driver and a rented luxury villa for his family.

    According to the indictment, O’Donoghue did not timely file tax returns for tax years 2012 through 2014. In 2016, however, O’Donoghue hired a return preparer to prepare tax returns for 2012 through  tax year 2015. O’Donoghue allegedly provided false information to his return preparer about his employment and income. For example, O’Donoghue allegedly told the return preparer that he was the general manager of the company, not the CEO, and concealed his bonuses and the expenses the company paid on his behalf. These lies allegedly caused the return preparer to prepare and file false tax returns for those years that underreported his income by approximately $1 million. Because O’Donoghue had previously made estimated payments, his false returns allegedly requested refunds from the IRS of more than $247,000 — much of which the IRS paid out.

    The indictment further alleges that in February 2023, O’Donoghue made false statements about his income and other matters to law enforcement agents and Department of Justice prosecutors.

    If convicted, O’Donoghue faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison for each tax evasion count, a maximum penalty of three years in prison for each count of subscribing to a false tax return, and a maximum penalty of five years in prison for the false statements count. O’Donoghue also faces a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin Jr. for the District of Columbia made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation and the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction are investigating the case, with assistance from His Majesty’s Revenue & Customs of the United Kingdom. Assistance was also provided by the Joint Chiefs of Global Tax Enforcement (J5), which brings together the taxing authorities of Australia, Canada, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

    Assistant Chief Sarah Ranney and Trial Attorney Ezra Spiro of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua Gold for the District of Columbia are prosecuting the case.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 10, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Former D.C.-Area Attorney Charged with Tax Crimes and Making False Statements to Federal Authorities

    Source: United States Attorneys General 13

    An indictment was unsealed today charging an attorney with evading taxes on approximately $1 million of income, as well as filing false tax returns and making false statements to federal authorities. Richard Graham Foote O’Donoghue previously lived in Washington, D.C., but currently lives in the United Kingdom. He was arrested on entering the United States on May 9, based on the criminal charges.

    The following is according to the indictment: from 2012 through 2015, O’Donoghue made substantial income first as an independent contractor for several non-U.S. businesses, including a defense contractor based out of Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and then as CEO of that contractor. While he was CEO, O’Donoghue also allegedly received significant bonuses and benefits including a car and driver and a rented luxury villa for his family.

    According to the indictment, O’Donoghue did not timely file tax returns for tax years 2012 through 2014. In 2016, however, O’Donoghue hired a return preparer to prepare tax returns for 2012 through  tax year 2015. O’Donoghue allegedly provided false information to his return preparer about his employment and income. For example, O’Donoghue allegedly told the return preparer that he was the general manager of the company, not the CEO, and concealed his bonuses and the expenses the company paid on his behalf. These lies allegedly caused the return preparer to prepare and file false tax returns for those years that underreported his income by approximately $1 million. Because O’Donoghue had previously made estimated payments, his false returns allegedly requested refunds from the IRS of more than $247,000 — much of which the IRS paid out.

    The indictment further alleges that in February 2023, O’Donoghue made false statements about his income and other matters to law enforcement agents and Department of Justice prosecutors.

    If convicted, O’Donoghue faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison for each tax evasion count, a maximum penalty of three years in prison for each count of subscribing to a false tax return, and a maximum penalty of five years in prison for the false statements count. O’Donoghue also faces a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin Jr. for the District of Columbia made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation and the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction are investigating the case, with assistance from His Majesty’s Revenue & Customs of the United Kingdom. Assistance was also provided by the Joint Chiefs of Global Tax Enforcement (J5), which brings together the taxing authorities of Australia, Canada, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

    Assistant Chief Sarah Ranney and Trial Attorney Ezra Spiro of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua Gold for the District of Columbia are prosecuting the case.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 10, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chairman of NPC Standing Committee calls for effective legislative work to promote high-quality development

    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 9 (Xinhua) — Zhao Leji, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress (NPC), has called on local people’s congresses (NPCs) to fulfill their duties in accordance with the law and make contributions to advancing the country’s high-quality development.

    Zhao Leji, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, made the remarks during an inspection tour of Fujian Province in eastern China from May 7 to 9.

    During the visit, the Chairman of the Standing Committee of the NPC talked with local deputies and representatives of the masses, hearing their opinions and suggestions regarding improving the work of the NPC and promoting legal construction.

    He stressed the important role of the People’s Congresses in ensuring the comprehensive and effective implementation of the Constitution and laws of the PRC, their leading role in legislative work and their significant role in exercising oversight functions within the system of party and state supervision.

    Zhao Leji, who led the NPC Standing Committee’s oversight group, also inspected the implementation of the Forestry Code of the People’s Republic of China in Fujian Province.

    He called for strengthening the protection and cultivation of forest resources, promoting forestry reform and development with a firm foundation on the rule of law, and ensuring the practical implementation of the provisions of the Forest Code on forest management and use. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 10, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Breaking News: China Expects to Face Challenges Together with Other Countries, Uphold International Fairness and Justice – Xi Jinping

    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

    Xinhua | 10. 05. 2025

    Keywords: Xi Jinping, China expects together, Chairman of the People’s Republic of China, other countries, honesty, justice, defend, challenges, urgently, progressive development of China, during the meeting, promoting positive, in the field of celebrations, Chinese leader, European relations, anniversary of the victory

    Moscow, May 9 (Xinhua) — China hopes to work with Slovakia and other countries to address challenges through unity and cooperation and uphold international fairness and justice, Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Friday.

    The Chinese leader expressed hope that Slovakia will play an active role in promoting the positive and progressive development of China-EU relations.

    Xi Jinping made the relevant statements during a meeting with Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico on the sidelines of celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory in the Great Patriotic War. –0–

    Source: Xinhua

    Breaking News: China hopes to work with other countries to confront challenges, uphold international fairness and justice — Xi Jinping Breaking News: China hopes to work with other countries to confront challenges, uphold international fairness and justice — Xi Jinping

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 10, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Executive Board Completes First Review of the Extended Fund Facility Arrangement with Pakistan and Approves the Request for an Arrangement under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    May 9, 2025

    • The IMF Executive Board completed the first review under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) Arrangement, allowing the authorities to draw the equivalent of about $1 billion. The authorities have demonstrated strong program implementation, which has contributed to improving financing and external conditions, and a continuing economic recovery.
    • Moving forward, policy priorities will include advancing reforms to strengthen competition, raise productivity and competitiveness, reform SOEs, improve public service provision and energy sector viability, and build climate resilience.
    • The Executive Board also approved the authorities request for an arrangement under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF), which will support Pakistan’s efforts in building economic resilience to climate vulnerabilities and natural disasters, with access of around $1.4 billion.

    Washington, DC: Today, the Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) completed the first review of Pakistan’s economic reform program supported by the EFF Arrangement. This decision allows for an immediate disbursement of around $1 billion (SDR 760 million), bringing total disbursements under the arrangement to about $2.1 billion (SDR 1.52 billion). In addition, the IMF Executive Board approved the authorities’ request for an arrangement under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF), with access of about US$1.4 billion (SDR 1 billion).

    Pakistan’s 37-month EFF was approved on September 25, 2024, and aims to build resilience and enable sustainable growth. Key priorities include (i) entrenching macroeconomic sustainability through consistent implementation of sound macro policies, including rebuilding international reserve buffers and broadening of the tax base; (ii) advancing reforms to strengthen competition and raise productivity and competitiveness; (iii) reforming SOEs and improving public service provision and energy sector viability; and (iv) building climate resilience.

    Pakistan’s policy efforts under the EFF have already delivered significant progress in stabilizing the economy and rebuilding confidence, amidst a challenging global environment. Fiscal performance has been strong, with a primary surplus of 2.0 percent of GDP achieved in the first half of FY25, keeping Pakistan on track to meet the end-FY25 target of 2.1 percent of GDP. Inflation fell to a historic low of 0.3 percent in April, and progress on disinflation and steadier domestic and external conditions, have allowed the State Bank of Pakistan to cut the policy rate by a total of 1100 bps since June 2025. Gross reserves stood at $10.3 billion at end-April, up from $9.4 billion in August 2024, and are projected to reach $13.9 billion by end-June 2025 and continue to be rebuilt over the medium term.

    The RSF will support the authorities’ efforts to reduce vulnerabilities to natural disasters and to build economic and climate resilience. The authorities’ program: (i) prioritizes resilience to natural disasters and strengthen public investment processes at all levels of government; (ii) makes the use of scarce water resources more efficient, including through better pricing; (iii) strengthens coordination of natural disaster response and financing between federal and provincial governments; (iv) improves the information architecture, for and disclosure of, climate-related risks by banks and corporates; and (v) supports Pakistan’s efforts to meet its mitigation commitments and reduce related macro-critical risks.

    Following the Executive Board discussion, Nigel Clarke, Deputy Managing Director and Chair, made the following statement:

    “Pakistan has made important progress in restoring macroeconomic stability despite a challenging environment. Since the approval of the Extended Fund Facility, the economy continues to recover, with inflation sharply lower and external buffers notably stronger. Risks to the outlook remain elevated, however, particularly from global economic policy uncertainty, rising geopolitical tensions, and persistent domestic vulnerabilities. Against this backdrop, the authorities need to maintain sound macroeconomic policies and accelerate reforms to safeguard the macroeconomic gains and underpin stronger and sustainable, private sector-led medium-term growth.

    “The steadfast implementation of the FY2025 budget and the passage of key fiscal reforms, notably the Agricultural Income Tax, underpin the process of rebuilding policy making credibility. Continuing to mobilize greater revenue from undertaxed sectors and the noncompliant will make the tax system more equitable and efficient. This, combined with federal and provincial spending discipline, will strengthen sustainability, build resilience, and reduce the public sector’s crowding out of private credit.

    “Timely implementation of power tariff adjustments has helped reduce the stock and flow of circular debt. Meanwhile, cost-side reforms are showing early signs of success but need to be accelerated to safeguard the energy sector’s viability and improve Pakistan’s competitiveness.

    “The State Bank of Pakistan’s (SBP) tight monetary policy stance has been pivotal in reducing inflation to historic lows. Monetary policy should remain appropriately tight and data-dependent to ensure inflation is anchored within the SBP’s target range. A more flexible exchange rate will facilitate the adjustment to external and domestic shocks, aiding the rebuilding of reserves. Prompt action to address undercapitalized financial institutions and vigilance over the financial sector are necessary for financial stability. Strengthening of AML/CFT frameworks is also needed.

    “Accelerating structural reforms will unlock Pakistan’s competitiveness, creating conditions to attract high-impact private investment. Reform priorities include reducing trade and investment barriers, advancing SOE reforms, and decisively strengthening governance and anti-corruption institutions.

    “Reducing Pakistan’s vulnerability to extreme weather events will enhance macroeconomic stability and fiscal sustainability. The reforms under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility aim to build resilience to natural disasters by strengthening public investment processes, supporting efficient use of scarce water resources, strengthening coordination of natural disaster response and financing, improving the information on climate-related risks, and supporting Pakistan in meeting its international commitments.”

    Table 1. Pakistan: Selected Economic Indicators, FY2023–FY2025 1/

    Population: 236.0 million (2023/24)

    Per capita GDP: US$1,566.0 (2023/24)

    Quota: SDR 2,031 million

    Poverty rate: 21.9 percent

    Main exports: Textiles (US$16.3 billion, 2023/24)

    (national line; FY2019)

    Key export markets: European Union, United States, UAE

    FY2024

    FY2025

    FY2026

    Proj.

    Proj.

    Output and prices (% change)

    Real GDP at factor cost

    2.5

    2.6

    3.6

    Employment (%)

    Unemployment rate

    8.3

    8.0

    7.5

    Prices (%)

    Consumer prices, period average

    23.4

    5.1

    7.7

    Consumer prices, end of period

    12.6

    6.5

    6.6

    General government finances (% GDP)

    Revenue and grants

    12.6

    15.9

    15.2

    Expenditure

    19.4

    21.6

    20.3

    Budget balance, including grants

    -6.8

    -5.6

    -5.1

    Budget balance, excluding grants

    -6.8

    -5.7

    -5.1

    Primary balance, excluding grants

    0.9

    2.1

    1.6

    Underlying primary balance (excluding grants) 2/

    0.9

    1.0

    1.6

    Total general government debt excl. IMF obligations

    67.9

    71.2

    69.2

    External general government debt

    22.7

    24.0

    22.2

    Domestic general government debt

    45.2

    47.3

    47.0

    General government debt incl. IMF obligations

    70.1

    73.6

    71.9

    General government and government guaranteed debt incl. IMF

    74.1

    77.6

    75.6

    Monetary and credit (% change, unless otherwise indicated)

    Broad money

    16.0

    11.0

    14.6

    Private credit

    6.0

    11.0

    17.5

    Six-month treasury bill rate (%) 3/

    21.5

    …

    …

    Balance of Payments (% GDP, unless otherwise indicated)

    Current account balance

    -0.5

    -0.1

    -0.4

    Foreign direct investment

    0.6

    0.5

    0.6

    Gross reserves (millions of U.S. dollars) 4/

    9,390

    13,921

    17,682

    Months of next year’s imports of goods and services

    1.6

    2.3

    2.8

    Total external debt

    31.7

    33.1

    31.3

    Exchange rate (% change)

    Real effective exchange rate

    15.4

    …

    …

       Sources: Pakistani authorities; World Bank; and IMF staff estimates and projections.

       1/ Fiscal year ends June 30.

     

     

                 

       2/ Excludes one-off transactions, including asset sales. In FY25 it excludes the projected windfall from exceptionally high SBP dividends.

     

       3/ Period average.

                   

       4/ Excluding gold and foreign currency deposits of commercial banks held with the State Bank of Pakistan.

                   
    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Mayada Ghazala

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

    @IMFSpokesperson

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/05/09/pr-25137-pakistan-imf-completes-1st-rev-of-eff-arrang-and-approves-req-for-arrang-under-rsf

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 10, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Economics: Phillips 66 Provides Statement of Critical Facts

    Source: Phillips

    Provides Clarity on Important Topics where Elliott Has Sought to Mislead Investors
    Reiterates Strength of Company’s Transformative Strategy and the Valuable Skills of Phillips 66’s Board and Nominees in Contrast to Elliott’s Risky, Misleading Analysis and Conflicted Nominees
    Phillips 66 Urges Shareholders to Vote “FOR” ONLY Phillips 66’s Nominees on the WHITE Proxy Card

    HOUSTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Phillips 66 (NYSE:PSX) today provided investors with important information to make fully informed voting decisions at the Phillips 66 Annual Meeting on May 21, 2025. This overview is intended to ensure investors understand the facts on these critical topics as they assess how to cast their upcoming vote.
    Reliable, Long-Term Value Creation
    Since Mark Lashier became President & CEO, Phillips 66 outperformed against relevant benchmarks,delivering total shareholder returns of 67%(compared to the S&P 500 Energy at 45%, and our Synthetic Proxy Peer Median1 at 42%).2
    In under 3 years, the Companyreturned over$14 billion to shareholdersthrough share repurchases and dividends. We grew our dividend at a 15% CAGR since the spinoff3in 2012, and our annual dividend paidincreased every year.
    While the Board recognizes the reliable returns we have provided for our shareholders,we are never satisfied and continuously review our portfolio with a sharp focus on long-term value creation.
    Investors and analysts recognize the long-term potential inherent in the execution of our transformational strategy, which is in its early innings:
    “PSX remains a Large Cap refining top pick. PSX’s management team is focused on delivering growth at attractive returns, and further diversification and improvements to refining uptime might combine to restore PSX’s premium positioning. We are Overweight rated.” (Wells Fargo (4/25/2025))4
    Effective Board Governance
    Elliott helped to select Bob Pease and he has proven to be a constructive challenger in the boardroom. As Bob has directly stated, he supports the Board because it is actively working to get to the right answer, not protecting any individual’s interests.
    The Phillips 66 Board has demonstrated an ability to consistently refresh the boardroom. To ensure fresh and independent viewpoints, we have added five new independent directors in the past four years and two new nominees stand for election at this year’s Annual Meeting.
    Our directors and nominees have unparallelled experience taking decisive and transformative action when it makes sense, and together they have overseen more than $300 B in breakup or major divestiture transactions.
    “[Mark Lashier] stressed that the board has taken a look at strategic options in the past and continues to do so regularly. As such, questions surrounding the makeup of the portfolio have been asked inside the boardroom. And answered. He also added there are plenty of folks in the boardroom who have been involved in spinoffs elsewhere and they’d be the kind of people who’d be raising their hand if they thought this one made sense. Lastly, he pointed out that “incredible dis-synergies” and “massive tax burdens” would come from midstream monetization. In today’s deck, PSX claims these costs could amount to $28/share.”(Gordon Haskett (4/28/2025))4
    Elliott’s Flawed Thesis to Separate Midstream and Sell CPChem
    The Board has absolutely evaluated a breakup of Midstream and sale of CPChem, and following meaningful consideration, came to the conclusion that neither action is in the best interest of long-term shareholders at this time.
    Simply put, Elliott’s analysis is based on speculative analysis and flawed assumptions:
    Elliott’s $50 billion Midstream analysis ignores or significantly underestimates tax leakage, dis-synergies, buying power of potential buyers, among other factors that would destroy value uplift in a sale and/or spin scenario.
    Elliott’s valuation of CPChem has appreciated by 50% to $15 billion since 2023, while Chemical peers have traded down 19%5during the same time frame.
    We have carefully evaluated and disclosed important details around Elliott’s flawed analysis in our recent investor presentation, which outlines the facts around the costs and risks of a CPChem sale or Midstream spin and the long-term value of the integrated business.

    We know the market recognizes Elliott’s analysis is based on speculative valuations and flawed assumptions:
    “Sale of companies may not work as: 1) buyers for these large assets are limited, 2) tax leakage could be high, 3) standalone Refining multiple may suffer (PSX is trading at a premium to MPC on standalone Refining).” (Citi (3/14/2025))4
    “We believe selling CPChem ahead of two large projects coming online and close to the bottom of the margin cycle may not be the right idea.” (Citi (2/13/2025)) 4
    Refining Performance
    Refining performance has been improving meaningfully, and we remain committed to continuously increasing margins in our Refining business.
    As a result of optimizing our integrated value chain and cost reduction efforts, our R&M EBITDA outperforms our core peer group by $2.80 per barrel6in the Central Corridor and is in-line globally.
    Between 2022 and 2024, Phillips 66 reduced refining adjusted controllable costs by $1.08 per barrel7, a 15% improvement and 44% above our original $0.75 per barrel target. These results surpassed both Marathon and Valero’s respective cost improvements over the same period.7
    By 2027, we aim to further reduce refining adjusted controllable costs from $5.90 to $5.50 per barrel.8We expect that every $0.50 per barrel of cost reduction will improve adjusted EBITDA by roughly $315 million.9
    We know the market sees the progress we are making:
    “[We] recently analyzed PSX refining EBITDA per barrel on a like-for-like basis with peers, adjusting for Marketing, Midstream, and turnaround accounting. We found that PSX performs in-line with peers based on our analysis … This is better than the consensus view that PSX refining earnings lags peers.” (TD Cowen (4/27/2025)) 4
    “Management highlighted the completion of its large turnaround program, which should support improved refining earnings through the remainder of the year. We note the company remains focused on improving operational execution and yields across its refining footprint though accretive capital investments.” (Goldman Sachs (5/1/2025)) 4
    The Risk of Elliott’s Nominees
    Elliott’s nominees, who have histories of value destruction, pose a risk to shareholders’ investments and have redundant experience relative to our more qualified nominees.
    Sigmund Cornelius and Brian Coffman both hold concerning and poorly disclosed ties to Elliott and Gregory Goff (CEO of Amber Energy, an Elliott portfolio company, who is pursuing an acquisition of CITGO, our direct competitor), creating serious questions about their ability to act in the best interests of all Phillips 66 shareholders.
    There are serious questions about Elliott’s expectation of director loyalty. Elliott’s attempt to replace Bob Pease while denying Phillips 66 access to interview and evaluate its nominees is a clear testament to the activist’s expectation of loyalty rather than true independence.
    Phillips 66 Has the Right Nominees
    John Lowe has over 30 years of experience in the energy sector and has created tangible value both in his executive and board positions at publicly traded energy companies.
    Bob Pease, who we appointed with support from Elliott, has extensive refining and commercial experience from his over 39-year career, and his leadership overseeing major corporate transformations has made him a highly effective Director.
    Nigel Hearne has substantial international upstream and downstream operating experience and will provide valuable refining operations and HS&E expertise.
    Howard Ungerleider holds over 30 years of chemicals leadership experience and oversaw the financial complexities of one of the largest and most complex mergers and spin-off transactions in recent history as CFO of DowDuPont.
    Your Vote Matters
    Phillips 66’s Board of Directors urges shareholders to use only the WHITE proxy card to vote:
    “FOR” all four of the candidates proposed by the Company and not Elliott’s four nominees;
    “FOR” management’s proposal to approve the declassification of the Board of Directors; and
    “AGAINST” Elliott’s proposal requiring annual director resignations, which implementing would violate Delaware law and put your Board at significant legal and reputational risk
    The Board strongly recommends that shareholders safeguard their investment in Phillips 66 by casting their vote as soon as possible, regardless of plans to attend the Annual Meeting virtually on May 21, 2025.
    Shareholders may receive materials from Elliott Management that say “gold proxy card” or “gold voting instructions” or similar. Phillips 66 recommends that shareholders DISCARD any Gold voting materials they may receive from Elliott. Shareholders may cancel out any vote made using a Gold proxy card by voting again TODAY using the Company’s WHITE proxy card. Only the latest-dated vote will count.
    About Phillips 66
    Phillips 66 (NYSE: PSX) is a leading integrated downstream energy provider that manufactures, transports and markets products that drive the global economy. The company’s portfolio includes Midstream, Chemicals, Refining, Marketing and Specialties, and Renewable Fuels businesses. Headquartered in Houston, Phillips 66 has employees around the globe who are committed to safely and reliably providing energy and improving lives while pursuing a lower-carbon future. For more information, visit phillips66.com or follow @Phillips66Co on LinkedIn.
    Forward-Looking Statements
    This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws relating to Phillips 66’s operations, strategy and performance. Words such as “anticipated,” “committed,” “estimated,” “expected,” “planned,” “scheduled,” “targeted,” “believe,” “continue,” “intend,” “will,” “would,” “objective,” “goal,” “project,” “efforts,” “strategies” and similar expressions that convey the prospective nature of events or outcomes generally indicate forward-looking statements. However, the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements included in this news release are based on management’s expectations, estimates and projections as of the date they are made. These statements are not guarantees of future events or performance, and you should not unduly rely on them as they involve certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Therefore, actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed or forecast in such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements include: changes in governmental policies or laws that relate to our operations, including regulations that seek to limit or restrict refining, marketing and midstream operations or regulate profits, pricing, or taxation of our products or feedstocks, or other regulations that restrict feedstock imports or product exports; our ability to timely obtain or maintain permits necessary for projects; fluctuations in NGL, crude oil, refined petroleum, renewable fuels and natural gas prices, and refining, marketing and petrochemical margins; the effects of any widespread public health crisis and its negative impact on commercial activity and demand for refined petroleum or renewable fuels products; changes to worldwide government policies relating to renewable fuels and greenhouse gas emissions that adversely affect programs including the renewable fuel standards program, low carbon fuel standards and tax credits for renewable fuels; potential liability from pending or future litigation; liability for remedial actions, including removal and reclamation obligations under existing or future environmental regulations; unexpected changes in costs for constructing, modifying or operating our facilities; our ability to successfully complete, or any material delay in the completion of, any asset disposition, acquisition, shutdown or conversion that we have announced or may pursue, including receipt of any necessary regulatory approvals or permits related thereto; unexpected difficulties in manufacturing, refining or transporting our products; the level and success of drilling and production volumes around our midstream assets; risks and uncertainties with respect to the actions of actual or potential competitive suppliers and transporters of refined petroleum products, renewable fuels or specialty products; lack of, or disruptions in, adequate and reliable transportation for our products; failure to complete construction of capital projects on time or within budget; our ability to comply with governmental regulations or make capital expenditures to maintain compliance with laws; limited access to capital or significantly higher cost of capital related to illiquidity or uncertainty in the domestic or international financial markets, which may also impact our ability to repurchase shares and declare and pay dividends; potential disruption of our operations due to accidents, weather events, including as a result of climate change, acts of terrorism or cyberattacks; general domestic and international economic and political developments, including armed hostilities (such as the Russia-Ukraine war), expropriation of assets, and other diplomatic developments; international monetary conditions and exchange controls; changes in estimates or projections used to assess fair value of intangible assets, goodwill and property and equipment and/or strategic decisions with respect to our asset portfolio that cause impairment charges; investments required, or reduced demand for products, as a result of environmental rules and regulations; changes in tax, environmental and other laws and regulations (including alternative energy mandates); political and societal concerns about climate change that could result in changes to our business or increase expenditures, including litigation-related expenses; the operation, financing and distribution decisions of equity affiliates we do not control; and other economic, business, competitive and/or regulatory factors affecting Phillips 66’s businesses generally as set forth in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Phillips 66 is under no obligation (and expressly disclaims any such obligation) to update or alter its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
    Additional Information
    On April 8, 2025, Phillips 66 filed a definitive proxy statement on Schedule 14A (the “Proxy Statement”) and accompanying WHITE proxy card with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) in connection with its 2025 Annual Meeting of Shareholders (the “2025 Annual Meeting”) and its solicitation of proxies for Phillips 66’s director nominees and for other matters to be voted on. This communication is not a substitute for the Proxy Statement or any other document that Phillips 66 has filed or may file with the SEC in connection with any solicitation by Phillips 66. PHILLIPS 66 SHAREHOLDERS ARE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED TO READ THE PROXY STATEMENT (AND ANY AMENDMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTS THERETO) AND ACCOMPANYING WHITE PROXY CARD AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT SOLICITATION MATERIALS FILED WITH THE SEC AS THEY CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. Shareholders may obtain copies of the Proxy Statement, any amendments or supplements to the Proxy Statement and other documents (including the WHITE proxy card) filed by Phillips 66 with the SEC without charge from the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Copies of the documents filed by Phillips 66 with the SEC also may be obtained free of charge at Phillips 66’s investor relations website at https://investor.phillips66.com or upon written request sent to Phillips 66, 2331 CityWest Boulevard, Houston, TX 77042, Attention: Investor Relations.
    Certain Information Regarding Participants
    Phillips 66, its directors, its director nominees and certain of its executive officers and employees may be deemed to be participants in connection with the solicitation of proxies from Phillips 66 shareholders in connection with the matters to be considered at the 2025 Annual Meeting. Information regarding the names of such persons and their respective interests in Phillips 66, by securities holdings or otherwise, is available in the Proxy Statement, which was filed with the SEC on April 8, 2025, including in the sections captioned “Beneficial Ownership of Phillips 66 Securities” and “Appendix C: Supplemental Information Regarding Participants in the Solicitation.” To the extent that Phillips 66’s directors and executive officers who may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation have acquired or disposed of securities holdings since the applicable “as of” date disclosed in the Proxy Statement, such transactions have been or will be reflected on Statements of Changes in Ownership of Securities on Form 4 or Initial Statements of Beneficial Ownership of Securities on Form 3 filed with the SEC. These documents are or will be available free of charge at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.
    Use of Non-GAAP Financial Information
    Non-GAAP Measures—This news release includes non-GAAP financial measures, including, “adjusted EBITDA” and “refining adjusted controllable costs.” These are non-GAAP financial measures that are included to help facilitate comparisons of operating performance across periods and to help facilitate comparisons with other companies in our industry. Where applicable, these measures exclude items that do not reflect the core operating results of our businesses in the current period or other adjustments to reflect how management analyzes results. Reconciliations to, or further discussion of, the most comparable GAAP financial measures can be found within or at the end of the news release materials.
    This news release also includes forward-looking non-GAAP financial measure estimates such as, but not limited to “adjusted EBITDA” and “refining adjusted controllable costs” which, as used in certain places herein, are forward looking non-GAAP financial measures. These forward-looking estimates or targets depend on future levels of revenues and/or expenses, including amounts that could be attributable to non-controlling interests or related joint ventures, which are not reasonably estimable at this time. Accordingly, reconciliations of these forward-looking non-GAAP financial measures to the nearest GAAP financial measure cannot be provided without unreasonable effort. Below are definitions of these non-GAAP measures and identification of the most directly comparable GAAP measure.
    EBITDA is defined as estimated net income plus estimated net interest expense, income taxes, and depreciation and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as estimated EBITDA plus the proportional share of selected equity affiliates’ estimated net interest expense, income taxes, and depreciation and amortization less the portion of estimated adjusted EBITDA attributable to noncontrolling interests. Net income is the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure for the consolidated company and income before income taxes is the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure for operating segments. Refining adjusted controllable cost is the sum of operating and SG&A expenses for our Refining segment, plus our proportional share of operating and SG&A expenses of two refining equity affiliates that are reflected in equity earnings of affiliates. The per barrel amounts are based on total processed inputs, including our proportional share of processed inputs of an equity affiliate, for the respective period.
    References in this news release to shareholder distributions and returns to shareholders refer to the sum of dividends paid to Phillips 66 stockholders and proceeds used by Phillips 66 to repurchase shares of its common stock. References in this news release to “synergies” or “dis-synergies” are supported by management’s estimates and assumptions. These estimates are derived from the Company’s internal projections and other relevant data. However, because these synergies or dis-synergies are not calculated in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), they cannot be directly reconciled to GAAP measures. The Company believes that these non-GAAP measures provide valuable insight into optimization benefits but cautions that such synergies or dis-synergies may not be realized in full or at all.
    Basis of News release—Effective April 1, 2024, we changed the internal financial information reviewed by our chief executive officer to evaluate performance and allocate resources to our operating segments. This included changes in the composition of our operating segments, as well as measurement changes for certain activities between our operating segments. The primary effects of this realignment included establishment of a Renewable Fuels operating segment, which includes renewable fuels activities and assets historically reported in our Refining, Marketing and Specialties (M&S), and Midstream segments; change in method of allocating results for certain Gulf Coast distillate export activities from our M&S segment to our Refining segment; reclassification of certain crude oil and international clean products trading activities between our M&S segment and our Refining segment; and change in reporting of our investment in NOVONIX from our Midstream segment to Corporate and Other. Accordingly, prior period results have been recast for comparability.
    Calculated as the weighted average of Refining (CVI, DINO, DK, MPC, PBF, VLO), Midstream (OKE, TRGP, WMB), and Chemicals (DOW, LYB, WLK) Performance Proxy Peers’ TSR based on the weighting of consensus NTM EBITDA estimates for PSX’s segments.
    Total Shareholder Return (“TSR”) calculated from June 30, 2022 to March 31, 2025.
    Dividend CAGR calculated from initial dividend of $0.20 per share in 3Q 2012 to $1.15 per share in 4Q 2024.
    Permission to use quotations was neither sought nor obtained.
    Calculated as median of % change in price performance of Chemicals peers (DOW, LYB, WLK) between Elliott’s 2023 letter and Elliott’s 2025 letter.
    Last three-year average (2022-2024). “Core Peers” calculated as average of MPC and VLO. “Other Peers” calculated as average of CVI, DINO, DK and PBF. R&M EBITDA calculated as regional net operating margin plus adjustments to reconcile with stated Adjusted Worldwide R&M Adjusted EBITDA. “R&M” includes PSX Refining + PSX Marketing & Specialties segments and is most comparable to MPC and VLO, which report their Refining and Marketing operations as a single segment. A combined Refining and Marketing & Specialties presentation of Adjusted EBITDA is shown for peer comparison only and is not reflective of how the Phillips 66 chief operating decision maker evaluates performance; rather, Refining and Marketing & Specialties are reviewed as two separate operating segments.
    Excludes adjusted turnaround expenses; non-GAAP financial measure. Reconciliation to the nearest GAAP measure can be found in slide 78 of the “Investor Presentation”here. PSX and peers exclude turnaround expense to be comparable; however, peer disclosure on other items e.g., corporate allocations and SG&A, varies and is not directly comparable to PSX methodology, which is inclusive of these items. For further details, refer to pages 16 and 17 of the “Investor Presentation” foundhere.
    Excluding adjusted turnaround expense, post-ceasing of operations at Los Angeles Refinery.
    Based on 2024 Adjusted Total Processed Inputs which include our proportional share of processed inputs of equity affiliates adjusted for projected impacts of cessation of operations of Los Angeles Refinery assuming throughput of 139 MBD at 2024 West Coast region utilization (94%) (~630 MMbbls).

    Source: Phillips 66

    MIL OSI Economics –

    May 10, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Canada: Royal Canadian Air Force CF-18s to conduct flyby for the Canadian Tulip Festival in Ottawa

    Source: Government of Canada News

    May 9, 2025 – Ottawa, ON. – National Defence/Canadian Armed Forces

    Four CF-18 aircraft from 3 Wing Bagotville will fly over Ottawa to mark the start of the Canadian Tulip Festival as part of a commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Netherlands. The flyover will take place on May 10th between 11:00 and 11:30 AM over the Tulip Festival beside Dow’s Lake in Ottawa.

    To ensure public safety, the flyovers of Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) aircraft are meticulously planned and closely monitored. They are also dependent on weather and flight conditions.

    The RCAF is proud to participate in Second World War commemorations in collaboration with Veterans Affairs Canada.

    For more details about the RCAF and its aircraft, please visit the following website: https://www.canada.ca/en/air-force.html

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    May 10, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Law Enforcement Seizes Nine DDoS-for-Hire Webpages as Part of Global Crackdown on ‘Booter’ and ‘Stresser’ DDoS Services

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    LOS ANGELES – The Justice Department today announced the court-authorized seizure of nine internet domains associated with some of the world’s leading DDoS-for-hire services. Poland’s Central Cybercrime Bureau simultaneously announced the arrests of four administrators of such services, investigations which were assisted by U.S. authorities. Several of the arrested administrators operated websites seized pursuant to previous operations by the Central District of California. 

    Federal law enforcement continues to seize websites that allow paying users to launch powerful distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks. These attacks flood targeted computers and servers with information to prevent them from being able to access the internet.

    Booter services such as those named in this action allegedly attacked a wide array of victims in the United States and abroad, including schools, government agencies, gaming platforms, and millions of people. In addition to affecting targeted victims, these attacks can significantly degrade internet services and completely disrupt internet connections. 

    The websites targeted in this operation were used for hundreds of thousands of actual or attempted DDoS attacks targeting victims worldwide. While some of these services claimed to offer “stresser” services that purportedly could be used for network testing, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS) determined these claims to be a pretense, and “thousands of communications between booter site administrators and their customers…make clear that both parties are aware that the customer is not attempting to attack their own computers,” according to an affidavit filed in support of court-authorized warrants to seize the booter sites.

    Today’s announcement builds on the success of the prior cases by targeting all known booter sites, shutting down as many as possible, and undertaking a public education campaign. In the last four years more than 11 defendants have been charged in Los Angeles and Anchorage for facilitating DDoS-for-hire services. More than 75 domains associated with such services have been seized.

    “Booter services facilitate cyberattacks that harm victims and compromise everyone’s ability to access the internet,” said United States Attorney Bill Essayli for the Central District of California. “This week’s sweeping law enforcement activity is a major step in our ongoing efforts to eradicate criminal conduct that threatens the internet’s infrastructure and our ability to function in a digital world.”

    “DDoS for hire criminal booter services impact internet services for victims in every corner of the United States, including Alaska,” said U.S. Attorney Michael J. Heyman for the District of Alaska. “This threat highlights the continued need to pursue cybercrime services like booter providers. We remain committed to bolstering our collaborative partnerships in the U.S. and abroad to address threats to critical internet infrastructure and services.”

    “The enforcement actions launched today, made possible by enduring partnerships between law enforcement and private industry, represents continued pressure on DDoS-for-hire services and the cybercriminals and hacktivists who use them.” said Special Agent in Charge Kenneth DeChellis of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Cyber Field Office. “This success demonstrates the resolve of the DCIS to relentlessly pursue those who target our warfighters and their information systems.”

    In conjunction with the website seizures, Homeland Security Investigations, DCIS, and the Netherlands Police have launched an advertising campaign using targeted placement ads in search engines, which are triggered by keywords associated with DDoS activities. The purpose of the ads is to deter potential cybercriminals searching for DDoS services in the United States and around the globe, and to educate the public on the illegality of DDoS activities.

    In recent years, booter services have continued to proliferate as they offer a low barrier to entry for users looking to engage in cybercriminal activity. These types of DDoS attacks are so named because they result in the “booting” or dropping of the targeted computer from the internet.

    For additional information on booter and stresser services and the harm that they cause, please visit: https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/anchorage/fbi-intensify-efforts-to-combat-illegal-ddos-attacks.

    The seizures announced today were performed by DCIS’s Cyber-West Resident Agency.

    These law enforcement actions were taken in conjunction with Operation PowerOFF, an ongoing, coordinated effort among international law enforcement agencies aimed at dismantling criminal DDoS-for-hire infrastructures worldwide, and holding accountable the administrators and users of these illegal services. Principal partners in Operation PowerOFF include EUROPOL; the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Alaska; The Department of Justice Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section (CCIPS); FBI’s Anchorage and Los Angeles field offices; HSI’s Columbus field office; Germany’s Bundeskriminalamt (BKA); United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency (NCA); Netherlands Police; Polish Central Cybercrime Bureau; Brazilian Federal Police, Japan’s National Police Agency, France’s Police Nationale, and many others.

    Assistance was provided by Akamai, Amazon Web Services, Cloudflare, Digital Ocean, Flashpoint, Google, PayPal, The University of Cambridge, and Unit 221B.

    Assistant United States Attorneys James E. Dochterman of the Asset Forfeiture and Recovery Section and Aaron Frumkin of the Cyber and Intellectual Property Crimes Section are handling this investigation.

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 10, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Ivorian Men Arrested for International “Sextortion” and Money Laundering Scheme Resulting in Minor’s Death

    Source: United States Department of Justice

    Four men in Côte d’Ivoire have been arrested on criminal charges relating to their role in an international “sextortion” scheme that targeted thousands of victims, including minors, throughout the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, France, Spain, and Italy.

    In February 2022, Ryan Last, a 17-year-old high school senior from San Jose, California committed suicide hours after being sextorted online by an individual pretending to be a 20-year-old woman. Through a lengthy, coordinated investigation involving U.S. and Ivorian law enforcement, the evidence ultimately led law enforcement to identify Alfred Kassi, an Ivorian citizen living in Côte d’Ivoire, as the individual allegedly conducting the sextortion. On April 29, Kassi was arrested by Ivorian law enforcement. At the time of his arrest, Kassi allegedly still had the sextortion messages he sent to the 17-year-old victim in February 2022 on his phone.

    Additionally, the investigation identified several alleged money laundering accomplices who helped Kassi move the money he received from the 17-year-old victim, who had paid $150 in order to prevent his intimate images from being disseminated. One of those alleged money launderers is Oumarou Ouedraogo, who was arrested by Ivorian law enforcement on April 25. In addition, Ivorian law enforcement arrested two other individuals, Moussa Diaby and Oumar Cisse. Both Diaby and Cisse were part of Kassi’s alleged sextortion network and admitted to their own sextortion crimes. A U.S.-based accomplice, Jonathan Kassi (unrelated to Alfred Kassi), was convicted in 2023 in a California State Court and sentenced to 18 months in jail.

    The government of Côte d’Ivoire does not extradite its own citizens, so these defendants will be prosecuted in their own country under Ivorian cybercrime statutes.

    Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Acting U.S. Attorney Patrick D. Robbins for the Northern District of California, and Acting Assistant Director Darren Cox of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division made the announcement.

    The FBI is investigating the case, with substantial assistance from the San Jose Police Department, the U.S. Embassy in Abidjan, and Meta, which provided critical information that assisted with the identification of the offenders. The government of Côte d’Ivoire, specifically the Anti-Terrorist Operational Intelligence Center (CROAT), conducted the investigation and arrests in Côte d’Ivoire.

    Trial Attorney Austin M. Berry of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Marissa Harris for the Northern District of California provided legal support throughout the investigation, including compiling and presenting the evidence to Ivorian authorities.  

    If you, your child, or someone you know is being exploited via sextortion, contact your local FBI field office, call 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324), or report it online at the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). Additional resources can found at Financially Motivated Sextortion — FBI

    All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 10, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Cooperation between China and Central and Eastern Europe is developing steadily and opening up wide opportunities – Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China

    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 9 (Xinhua) — Economic and trade relations between China and Central and Eastern European (CEE) countries are developing soundly and steadily, opening up great opportunities for further cooperation, China’s Ministry of Commerce said Friday.

    Since 2012, China’s trade with Central and Eastern European countries has grown by an average of 8.8 percent per year, while imports from these countries have grown by an average of 7.4 percent per year, outpacing the growth rate of China’s foreign trade over the same period, Deputy Minister of Commerce Yan Dong said at a departmental press conference.

    In 2024, trade volume between China and CEE countries increased by 6.3 percent year-on-year to reach a record high of $142.3 billion, according to the ministry.

    At the same time, both sides have also seen increasingly active investment activities, Yan Dong said, adding that Chinese investment in CEE countries has now exceeded US$24 billion.

    In recent years, a new bright spot has emerged in the investment cooperation between China and CEE countries: Chinese enterprises in the upstream and downstream sectors of the electric vehicle and traction battery production chains have increased their momentum in research and investment in CEE countries, he noted.

    He said that China’s efforts to comprehensively expand the country’s high-level opening up to the outside world and build various economic and trade platforms that provide a basis for both sides to carry out multi-faceted cooperation will open up important opportunities for cooperation between China and Central and Eastern Europe countries in the future.

    The strong trade and economic complementarity between China and the Central and Eastern European countries provides new space for cooperation in the industrial, trade in goods and trade in services sectors, Yan Dong added.

    The 4th China-CEEC Expo and China International Consumer Goods Fair will be held in Ningbo, east China’s Zhejiang Province, from May 22 to 25 this year. The event will be a major platform for showcasing branded products from CEEC countries, expanding imports from CEEC countries, and promoting mutual investment between China and these countries, the Ministry of Commerce said. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 10, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Breaking: China supports Cuba in defending sovereignty, resisting foreign interference – Xi Jinping

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    Moscow, May 9 (Xinhua) — China firmly supports Cuba in defending its national sovereignty and opposing foreign interference and blockade, Chinese President Xi Jinping said in the Russian capital on Friday.

    Xi Jinping made the statement during a meeting with Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel on the sidelines of celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory in the Great Patriotic War.

    As the Chinese President noted, the Chinese side also supports Cuba’s efforts to promote socio-economic development. The two countries, as important members of the Global South, should strengthen coordination and cooperation within such structures as BRICS and the China-CELAC Forum (Community of Latin American and Caribbean States), oppose power politics and unilateral bullying, and uphold international fairness and justice, the Chinese leader stressed. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 10, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Lightning: Slovakia’s Prime Minister has declared his readiness to adhere to multilateralism, uphold free trade rules, and protect the stability of global supply chains together with China

    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

    Xinhua | 10. 05. 2025

    Keywords:

    Source: Xinhua

    Flash: Slovakian Prime Minister says he is ready to work with China to adhere to multilateralism, uphold free trade rules, and protect the stability of global supply chains Flash: Slovakian Prime Minister says he is ready to work with China to adhere to multilateralism, uphold free trade rules, and protect the stability of global supply chains

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 10, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Breaking News: China Will Always Firmly Support Venezuela in Safeguarding Sovereignty, National Dignity, Social Stability: Xi Jinping

    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

    Xinhua | 10. 05. 2025

    Keywords: Xi Jinping, sovereignty protection, PRC Chairman, social stability, national dignity, support, China, Venezuela, urgently, during the meeting, jointly develop, in the field of celebrations, each other, anniversary of the victory, Venezuela are, Jinping

    Moscow, May 9 (Xinhua) — China and Venezuela are reliable partners who trust each other and develop together. China will always firmly support Venezuela in safeguarding its sovereignty, national dignity and social stability, Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Friday.

    Xi Jinping made the statement during a meeting with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on the sidelines of celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory in the Great Patriotic War. –0–

    Source: Xinhua

    Urgent: China will always firmly support Venezuela in safeguarding its sovereignty, national dignity and social stability: Xi Jinping Urgent: China will always firmly support Venezuela in safeguarding its sovereignty, national dignity and social stability: Xi Jinping

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 10, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s Bond Market Launches ‘Science and Technology Platform’

    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 9 (Xinhua) — The first batch of science and technology innovation bonds was issued in China on Friday, marking the opening of a “science and technology platform” in the Chinese bond market.

    The Beijing Financial Capital Exchange held a roadshow, attended by the first eight companies that issued scientific and technological innovation bonds on the interbank bond market.

    The “science and technology platform” is designed to help financial institutions, science and technology enterprises and direct equity investment institutions issue science and technology innovation bonds, Pan Gongsheng, director of the People’s Bank of China (PBOC, the central bank), said in March.

    According to a notice published by the Central Bank on May 7, such bonds include corporate bonds, enterprise bonds and debt financial instruments issued by non-financial enterprises.

    Issuers are encouraged to apply flexible bond servicing terms and issue bonds with longer maturities, which will better suit the characteristics and needs of the scientific and technological innovation sector when using equity funds.

    As Duan Dawei, Senior Vice President of iFLYTEK, noted, technology enterprises must remain committed to innovation, which requires long cycles, cost-effective solutions and a variety of financial instruments.

    According to him, a series of innovative solutions presented on the “scientific and technical platform” of the bond market flexibly combine with the financing needs of scientific and technical companies and expand the range of financial support instruments.

    According to preliminary estimates by the PBOC, nearly 100 market institutions are preparing to issue sci-tech innovation bonds worth over 300 billion yuan (about 41.7 billion U.S. dollars). More participants are expected to join the initiative in the future. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 10, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Valadao Introduces Legislation to Expand Domestic Energy Production

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman David G Valadao (CA-21)

    WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) joined Reps. Jen Kiggans (VA-02), Andrew Garbarino (NY-02), Mark Amodei (NV-02), and Dan Newhouse (WA-04) in introducing the Certainty for Our Energy Future Act. This legislation would provide some much-needed clarity surrounding renewable energy projects and ensure our nation’s resources do not enrich adversarial nations.

    “The Central Valley is leading the way in renewable energy production, and our communities deserve policies that provide stability and certainty for the future,” said Congressman Valadao. “The Certainty for Our Energy Future Act preserves the clean energy tax credits farmers and energy producers rely on, while phasing out long-term subsidies for technologies that can now stand on their own. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing this bill to expand domestic energy production and keep the door open for new technologies to grow and compete.”

    “The Certainty for Our Energy Future Act is a critical step toward aligning our clean energy priorities with today’s economic and national security realities,” said Congresswoman Kiggans. “By responsibly phasing out subsidies for technologies like wind and solar, and ensuring foreign adversaries like China and Russia can’t exploit American tax benefits, we are safeguarding both our energy independence and our taxpayers. Energy security is national security, and the bottom line is that in order to increase American energy dominance, we need to protect as much production and innovation as possible. I am proud to introduce this legislation and help secure America’s energy future!”

    “Certainty for the energy industry is essential to securing American energy dominance, driving innovation, and lowering costs for consumers,” said Congressman Garbarino. “The Certainty for Our Energy Future Act provides the predictability businesses need to invest with confidence while protecting taxpayers from foreign threats. I look forward to working with my colleagues to responsibly deliver on the President’s energy agenda and meet our nation’s growing energy demand with a stronger, more secure energy future.”

    “America’s path to energy independence must involve an all-of-the-above clean energy approach that puts American manufacturers at the center,” said Rep. Amodei. “By excluding foreign adversaries from tax benefits and prioritizing American innovation, we are one step closer to a more secure and self-reliant energy future.”

    “The United States has the opportunity to lead the world in clean energy production while lowering costs for consumers,” said Congressman Newhouse. “By phasing out tax incentives supporting wind and solar projects, Congress can provide long-term certainty to utilities and investors. This legislation provides critical protections to ensure federal investments are not being utilized by foreign adversaries, including Communist China. I thank Rep. Kiggans for her leadership as we work to ensure American clean energy is safe, reliable, and affordable as new forms of energy emerge.”

    “CRES is grateful for the leadership of Reps. Kiggans, Valadao, Newhouse and Amodei on introducing the Certainty for Our Energy Future Act,” said Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions. “Right sizing policies in parallel with offering business and investment certainty is both critical and commonsense.  As America seeks to beat China in the global AI race, legislation like this strengthens our nation’s competitive edge while also ensuring American energy remains abundant and affordable.”

    “ACP commends Reps. Kiggans, Garbarino, Valadao, Newhouse, and Amodei for introducing the Certainty for our Energy Future Act. The Act ensures that we protect business certainty for projects currently under planning and development and offers a very constructive starting point for discussions on the clean energy tax credits. With electricity demand projected to increase by up to 50% over the next 15 years, we need an all-of-the-above energy strategy. This legislation helps provide a roadmap to lawmakers as they continue to address this important issue,” said Frank Macchiarola, Chief Advocacy Officer, American Clean Power Association.

    “As electric companies work to meet growing customer demands for electricity and to strengthen our nation’s energy security, we must have policy certainty. We are grateful to Reps. Kiggans, Amodei, Garbarino, Newhouse, and Valadao for their ongoing leadership and for recognizing that clear timelines for tax credits and access to tools like transferability support investment in critical energy infrastructure, while helping to keep costs to customers as low as possible,” said Edison Electric Institute interim President and CEO Pat Vincent-Collawn. “We look forward to continuing to work with Reps. Kiggans, Amodei, Garbarino, Newhouse, Valadao, and other leaders in Congress as they deliberate on tax policy changes that could impact the costs customers pay for electricity.”

    The Certainty for Our Energy Future Act would:

    • Extend the 45Y and 48E tax credit for solar and wind projects with a phase out in 2030.
    • Ensure safe harbor rules apply for 10 years on public lands and 4 years everywhere else—codifying rules already in effect.
    • Restrict or disqualify companies created, organized, or owned by foreign entities of concern (FEOC) from claiming energy tax credits. FEOCs include China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea.

    Read the full bill here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 10, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner, Kaine, Colleagues Push Trump Administration to Fill Sudan Special Envoy Position as Civil War Continues

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) and a bipartisan group of Senate colleagues wrote to Secretary of State Marco Rubio urging him to work with President Trump to appoint a new Special Envoy for Sudan, build out key senior Africa roles at the State Department and the National Security Council, and to hold accountable both internal and foreign actors prolonging the conflict.
    The ongoing violence in Sudan has led to a massive humanitarian crisis. Since the war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) began in April 2023, it’s estimated that the conflict has claimed the lives of tens of thousands to potentially over one hundred thousand individuals, and in the region, an estimated 30 million Sudanese are in need of immediate assistance.
    Warner and Kaine have led efforts to address this crisis, including introducing the Response to Conflict in Sudan Act, legislation to bolster and coordinate the U.S. response to the war in Sudan. The senators also previously pushed the Biden administration to take steps to better address the chaos and violence displacing millions of people in Sudan and the surrounding regions by appointing a Special Envoy for Sudan. Following the senators’ calls for a special envoy, President Biden appointed former U.S. Rep. Tom Perriello to the position, but the position has remained vacant under the Trump administration.
    The senators wrote, “Since its outbreak, this conflict has displaced more than 14 million people – an estimated 11.5 million internally, plus an additional 3 million fleeing to neighboring countries and regions. Approximately 30 million people – more than half of Sudan’s population – are in urgent humanitarian need. By some estimates, the conflict has killed upwards of 150,000 people, in what the U.S. government has officially declared a genocide. Belligerents on both sides stand accused of atrocities, including killings, abductions of civilians, and horrific instances of sexual violence against women and children.”
    The senators highlighted continued bipartisan efforts to respond to the crisis in Sudan and the need to fill crucial roles in countries impacted by the ongoing civil war. 
    Added the senators, “We urge the Administration to fill the Special Envoy position, which would align with bipartisan Congressional intent expressed through the passage of the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act, which included provisions of the Response to Conflict in Sudan Act. We also strongly urge you to work with the President to nominate senior officials responsible for Africa, including the Assistant Secretary for African Affairs, ambassadors to countries impacted by or otherwise implicated in the conflict, and push for the appointment of a Senior Director for Africa at the National Security Council to coordinate interagency efforts.”
    In addition to the need to fill these crucial roles, the senators highlighted the impact that outside influences are having on this crisis, and the need for the U.S. to hold accountable any foreign actors exacerbating the crisis. 
    “To date, the Office of Foreign Assets Control added SAF and RSF members to the Specially Designated Nationals List and taken action against numerous UAE companies for potentially violating U.S. sanctions. We encourage you, alongside allies and partners, to continue to hold accountable external actors that support and/or finance the conflict, using all available tools,” they wrote. 
    In addition to Warner and Kaine, the letter was signed by Todd Young (R-IN), Mike Rounds (R-SD), and Cory Booker (D-NJ).
    A copy of letter is available here and text is below.
    Dear Secretary Rubio,
    Now into the third year of destructive conflict in Sudan, with escalating violence and atrocities between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and Rapid Support Forces (RSF), U.S. engagement to bring a resolution to this conflict is more critical than ever. You can send a strong signal to the region by working with the President to appoint a new Special Envoy for Sudan and holding accountable both Sudanese and foreign actors prolonging the conflict. 
    Since its outbreak, this conflict has displaced more than 14 million people – an estimated 11.5 million internally, plus an additional 3 million fleeing to neighboring countries and regions. Approximately 30 million people – more than half of Sudan’s population – are in urgent humanitarian need. By some estimates, the conflict has killed upwards of 150,000 people, in what the U.S. government has officially declared a genocide. Belligerents on both sides stand accused of atrocities, including killings, abductions of civilians, and horrific instances of sexual violence against women and children.
    We urge the Administration to fill the Special Envoy position, which would align with bipartisan Congressional intent expressed through the passage of the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act, which included provisions of the Response to Conflict in Sudan Act.  We also strongly urge you to work with the President to nominate senior officials responsible for Africa, including the Assistant Secretary for African Affairs, ambassadors to countries impacted by or otherwise implicated in the conflict, and push for the appointment of a Senior Director for Africa at the National Security Council to coordinate interagency efforts.
    In addition to naming an envoy, we urge you to hold accountable external actors – including the UAE, Russia, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt – and foreign businesses fueling the gruesome atrocities. The recent large-scale offensive by the RSF in Darfur – which has included storming and systematically burning down the Zamzam refugee camp, killing hundreds of people in a massacre that has also forced hundreds of thousands more to flee the camp in a matter of days – exemplifies the depravity that is being enabled by these external forces.
    To date, the Office of Foreign Assets Control added SAF and RSF members to the Specially Designated Nationals List and taken action against numerous UAE companies for potentially violating U.S. sanctions. We encourage you, alongside allies and partners, to continue to hold accountable external actors that support and/or finance the conflict, using all available tools.
    Conflicts rarely stay localized, and the longer this horrific war drags on, the more combustible this region becomes – an outcome that creates a power vacuum that extremists, terrorists, and our foreign adversaries will only be too happy to fill. The war’s continuation not only harms millions of innocent civilians, but also poses serious risk to American security interests in the region.
    We strongly support U.S. engagement and leadership in Sudan. The appointment of a new Special Envoy would send a strong signal. We look forward to working together to support your efforts to end the conflict in Sudan, address the humanitarian crisis, hold accountable those responsible for atrocities, and stop the actors fueling this crisis inside and outside Sudan.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 10, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Turkish national pleads guilty to selling counterfeit goods at mall kiosks

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    DAYTON, Ohio – A man who operates kiosks at a local mall pleaded guilty in federal court here to trafficking counterfeit goods.

    Emre Teski, 25, is a citizen of Turkey and illegally entered the United States from Mexico in September 2022. Teski admitted to illegally crossing the international boundary without being inspected by an immigration officer at a designated Port of Entry. On Jan. 3, 2024, Teski was ordered removed from the United States, but has since appealed this decision and was permitted employment authorization while his appeal is pending. Teski operates kiosks selling alleged counterfeit goods at the Mall at Fairfield Commons in Beavercreek.

    According to court documents, Teski ran one kiosk that primarily sold replica professional soccer jerseys and hats containing trademarked soccer teams, including FC Barcelona, Club Internacional de Fútbol Miami, Manchester City and Arsenal. Teski operated another kiosk that sold primarily oversized slippers that look like sneakers and included Nike and Air Jordan trademarks. 

    Teski allegedly sold an investigator counterfeit Nike slippers that illegally used the trademark Nike Swoosh. It is alleged that he also sold a counterfeit pink Messi jersey.

    The total domestic value for all items seized by federal agents is nearly $150,000.

    Teski was arrested in March 2025. Trafficking counterfeit goods is a federal crime punishable by up to 10 years in prison.

    Kelly A. Norris, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; and Jared Murphey, Acting Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Detroit; announced the plea entered on May 8 before Senior U.S. District Judge Walter H. Rice. Assistant United States Attorney Ryan A. Saunders is representing the United States in this case.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 10, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Western District of Texas Adds 316 Immigration Cases in First Week of May

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SAN ANTONIO – Acting United States Attorney Margaret Leachman for the Western District of Texas announced today, that federal prosecutors in the district filed 316 new immigration and immigration-related criminal cases from May 2 through May 8.

    Among the new cases, Cirilo Delgado-Alderete, Dilan Karim Valenzuela-Baca, and Antelmo Eligio Ramirez-Bernardo were arrested at an alleged stash house in Anthony, New Mexico. According to an affidavit, U.S. Border Patrol and Homeland Security Investigations agents observed three vehicles that had been identified as being used to smuggle illegal aliens to Albuquerque, New Mexico, parked at the residence. When agents questioned Ramirez-Bernardo, a Guatemalan national, they allegedly discovered he possessed a key to the residence on his keychain. Agents then located 25 individuals inside the residence who admitted to being citizens of Mexico, Peru, Honduras, Guatemala, Dominican Republic, and Pakistan without documentation to be in the U.S. Two of the individuals, Delgado-Alderete and Valenzuela-Baca, were identified as alleged stash house caretakes and drivers to harbor and transport the illegal aliens. Delgado-Alderete, Valenzuela-Baca, and Ramirez-Bernardo are charged with one count of conspiracy to transport illegal aliens and one count of conspiracy to harbor illegal aliens.  The drivers allegedly picked up aliens in El Paso before transporting them to New Mexico.

    Mexican national Erasmo Soto-Aguilar and Cesar Jared Garcia-Raucho, a U.S. citizen, were charged with statutes related to harboring illegal aliens after agents arrested them outside an alleged stash house in El Paso. A criminal complaint alleges that Soto-Aguilar had been involved in multiple smuggling schemes in which he coordinated pick-up drivers to meet and exchange illegal aliens. The complaint also alleges that Garcia-Raucho admitted to working as an illegal alien caretaker.

    Leonel Sotelo-Santillan, a Mexican national, was arrested after allegedly entering a National Defense Area near El Paso illegally on May 2. Sotelo-Santillan is a convicted felon with two 2015 convictions for domestic abuse battery and theft in Louisiana, as well as a felony conviction in June 2024 for illegal re-entry. He has two prior removals, the last one being Dec. 28, 2024.

    In San Antonio, Mexican national Joandel De Jesus Tierrablanca-Tellez aka Joandel Tierras Blanca was arrested after law enforcement officers allegedly observed him sell four firearms to a buyer in New Braunfels. Homeland Security Investigations had previously learned the firearms were to be sold and trafficked to Mexico for a predetermined amount of U.S. currency. A search of Tierrablanca-Tellez’s vehicle allegedly revealed his Mexican passport and an additional firearm along with .223 caliber and .308 caliber ammunition. Tierrablanca-Tellez is charged with one count of illegal alien in possession of a firearm and, if convicted, faces up to 15 years in federal prison.

    Alejandro Mata-Zavala, also a Mexican national, was arrested during a traffic stop in Guadalupe County on May 6. An Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)/Enforcement Removal Operations (ERO) immigration history inquiry determined Mata-Zavala had been convicted in April 2021 for conspiracy to transport illegal aliens, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison, and was removed from the U.S. to Mexico on or about June 2, 2022. He’s currently charged with one count of illegal re-entry and faces up to 20 years in federal prison, if convicted.

    USBP agents arrested Mexican national Tomas Medina-Martinez near Brackettville on May 1. Medina-Martinez is a two-time convicted felon with three prior removals from the U.S., the most recent being Feb. 12. Mexican national Mauro Morales-Lopez was also arrested by USBP on May 1 near Eagle Pass. Morales-Lopez was deported Nov. 12, 2024 through Atlanta, Georgia following multiple violent misdemeanor convictions for family violence.

    On May 5, Mexican national Sergio De La Cruz-Ruiz was arrested near Brackettville for being illegally present in the U.S. His criminal record includes nine deportations and multiple felony convictions. De La Cruz-Ruiz was also convicted in January 2024 for assault on a family member. His latest removal was April 18 through Harlingen.

    Jorge Luis Benavides-Alvarado, a Mexican national, was encountered by federal law enforcement at the Williamson County Jail and charged with illegal re-entry. He was convicted for possession of a dangerous drug in Georgetown on May 7. In 2017, Benavides-Alvarado was convicted for aggravated robbery in Dallas. He was removed from the U.S. July 26, 2019. Also encountered at the Williamson County Jail, Mexican national Agustin Ruiz-Vazquez was convicted May 7 for assault causing bodily injury. Federally charged with illegal re-entry, Ruiz-Vazquez was previously removed from the U.S. July 10, 2014, two years after being convicted of injury to a child in Austin.

    And in Midland, Salvadoran national Edenilzon Hernandez was encountered at the Ector County Detention Center in Odessa, where he was being held for indecency with child sexual contact. Now facing a federal illegal re-entry charge, Hernandez has three prior removals and a criminal history that includes convictions for burglary of a habitation, assault on a public servant and an additional assault charge.

    These cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE ERO), U.S. Border Patrol, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), with additional assistance from state and local law enforcement partners.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas comprises 68 counties located in the central and western areas of Texas, encompasses nearly 93,000 square miles and an estimated population of 7.6 million people. The district includes three of the five largest cities in Texas—San Antonio, Austin and El Paso—and shares 660 miles of common border with the Republic of Mexico.

    These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    Indictments and criminal complaints are merely allegations and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 10, 2025
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