NewzIntel.com

Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Director of Kent car sales company banned for Covid loan abuse

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Director of Kent car sales company banned for Covid loan abuse

    Joseph Harrison, the director of South East Commercials Ltd was disqualified as a director for 12 years and ordered to repay £38,295.

    • Car dealer Joseph Harrison applied for two Covid Bounce Back loans, totalling £90,000 on behalf of his company. 

    • He was only entitled to one Covid loan for his company, South East Commercials Ltd, under the rules of the scheme. 

    • Harrison was subject to a director disqualification order which came into effect on 6 May 2025 following a hearing at the High Court in London.  

    A car dealer from Kent – who is now living in Spain – has been banned from being a company director for 12 years after his company received a second £45,000 Covid Bounce Back loan it was not entitled to.  

    Joseph Harrison, from Wrotham, was the director of South East Commercials Ltd – a used car sales dealership in Kent – before it was dissolved in January this year.  

    An Insolvency Service investigation found that the 38-year-old applied for a Covid loan of £45,000 in June 2020.   

    However, he applied for a second loan – in August 2020 – for a further £45,000 having declared this was his first and only application for his business.  

    At a hearing at the High Court in London on 15 April 2025 Harrison was disqualified from being a director for 12 years, with his ban beginning on 6 May 2025. 

    He was also ordered to repay the current balance of £38,295 from the second loan.  

    Ann Oliver, Chief Investigator at the Insolvency Service, said:  

    Joseph Harrison applied for and received a second Covid loan when he was only entitled to one for his car sales business.  

    A 12-year ban is a significant disqualification and demonstrates the seriousness of his actions.  

    The Insolvency Service is committed to ensuring those who abused this scheme – which was designed to benefit the economy and help small businesses – are brought to justice. 

    Joseph Harrison operated as a sole trader for a number of years before South East Commercials Ltd was incorporated in May 2020.  

    The company sold used cars and light motor vehicles, such as motorcycles.  

    In the report to creditors, Mr Harrison stated that the first Bounce Back loan application was made by a third party on his behalf.  

    The Insolvency Service did not find evidence of a third party’s involvement.  

    He also stated that he did not know that only one successful loan application was permitted under the scheme.  

    However, the Insolvency Service has seen evidence that Mr Harrison signed the declaration on his company’s second loan application confirming that this was his first and only application. 

    Joseph Harrison was disqualified for 12 years under sections 6 and 15A of the Company Directors Disqualification Act 1986. 

    The Bounce Back loan scheme helped small and medium-sized businesses to borrow between £2,000 and £50,000, at a low interest rate, guaranteed by the Government.  

    Further information:  

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Door supervisor convicted after working with a suspended licence

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Door supervisor convicted after working with a suspended licence

    A man has been convicted for working at a Cambridgeshire venue with a suspended Security Industry Authority (SIA) licence.

    Amadu Tavares was working at No6 Cocktail Bar in St Neots on Friday 10 May 2024 when Cambridgeshire Police carried out licence checks on door staff. They found that his licence had previously been suspended by the SIA on 10 April 2024. 

    He was invited for interview under caution with SIA investigators on 11 July 2024 and again on 31 July 2024 however failed to attend for interview on either date.  

    Tavares appeared at Peterborough Magistrates’ Court on 15 January 2025 where he entered a guilty plea for offences contrary to Section 3 of the Private Security Industry Act 2001. He received a £200 fine, an £80 victim surcharge and had to pay £280 towards prosecution costs, totalling £560.

    Nicola Bolton, Criminal Investigations Manager at the SIA, said: 

    Our priority is public protection. We carefully review the actions of licence holders and suspend or revoke licences when necessary to keep people safe.  

    Mr Tavares chose to ignore the suspension of his licence, putting public safety at risk and undermining the integrity of the industry. The sentence handed down by the court will serve as a strong reminder that non-compliance has serious consequences.

    Background

    By law, security operatives working under contract must hold and display a valid SIA licence. Information about SIA enforcement and penalties can be found on GOV.UK/SIA.  

    The offence relating to the Private Security Industry Act 2001 that is mentioned above is:  

    • Section 3 – engaging in licensable conduct without a licence 

    The SIA is the organisation responsible for regulating the private security industry in the UK, reporting to the Home Secretary under the terms of the Private Security Industry Act 2001. The SIA’s main duties are the compulsory licensing of individuals undertaking designated activities and managing the voluntary Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS).

    Media enquiries

    For media enquiries only, please contact:

    SIA press office

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Fact Sheet: U.S.-UK Reach Historic Trade Deal

    Source: The White House

    ESTABLISHING A NEW PARADIGM FOR OUR SPECIAL RELATIONSHIP: Today, on the 80th anniversary of Victory Day for World War II, President Donald J. Trump and Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced a historic trade deal, providing American companies unprecedented access to the UK markets while bolstering U.S. national security. This is a great deal for America.

    • President Trump: “The deal includes billions of dollars of increased market access for American exports, especially in agriculture, dramatically increasing access for American beef, ethanol, and virtually all of the products produced by our great farmers.”
      • “The UK will reduce or eliminate numerous non-tariff barriers that unfairly discriminated against American products.”
      • “This is now turning out to be, really, a great deal for both countries.”
    • Prime Minister Starmer: “This is going to boost trade between and across our countries. It’s going to not only protect jobs, but create jobs, opening market access.”
    • This trade deal will significantly expand U.S. market access in the UK, creating a $5 billion opportunity for new exports for U.S. farmers, ranchers, and producers.
      • This includes more than $700 million in ethanol exports and $250 million in other agricultural products, like beef.
      • It commits the countries to work together to enhance industrial and agricultural market access.
      • It closes loopholes and increases U.S. firms’ competitiveness in the UK’s procurement market.
      • It ensures streamlined customs procedures for U.S. exports.
      • It establishes high standard commitments in the areas of intellectual property, labor, and environment.
      • It maximizes the competitiveness and secures the supply chain of U.S. aerospace manufacturers through preferential access to high-quality UK aerospace components.
      • It creates a secure supply chain for pharmaceutical products.
    • The reciprocal tariff rate of 10%, as originally announced on Liberation Day, is in effect.
    • The United States will agree to an alternative arrangement for the Section 232 tariffs on UK autos.
      • Under the deal, the first 100,000 vehicles imported into the U.S. by UK car manufacturers each year are subject to the reciprocal rate of 10% and any additional vehicles each year are subject to 25% rates.
    • The United States also recognizes the economic security measures taken by the UK to combat global steel excess capacity and will negotiate an alternative arrangement to the Section 232 tariffs on steel and aluminum.
      • This deal creates a new trading union for steel and aluminum.
    • This U.S.-UK trade deal will usher in a golden age of new opportunity for U.S. exporters and level the playing fields for American producers.
    • Today’s action also sets the tone for other trading partners to promote reciprocal trade with the United States.

    A FRAMEWORK TO BOLSTER ECONOMIC SECURITY: President Trump continues to advance the interests of the American people, enhancing market access for American exporters and lowering tariff and non-tariff barriers to protect our economic and national security.

    • On April 18, President Trump had a call with Prime Minister Starmer to discuss our bilateral trade relationship.
    • U.S. total goods trade with the UK was an estimated $148 billion in 2024.
    • The UK average applied agricultural tariff is 9.2% while the U.S. average applied agricultural tariff (prior to April 2) was 5%.
    • The UK maintains certain tariff and non-tariff barriers that restrict market access and create an unfair playing field for American workers and businesses.
      • For example, the UK imposes tariffs that can exceed 125% on meat, poultry, and dairy products on top of maintaining non-science-based standards that adversely affect U.S. exports.
    • On April 2, 2025, Liberation Day, President Trump imposed a 10% tariff on all countries to address unfair trade practices that have contributed to America’s trade deficit and imbalances in order to better protect American workers and our national security. 

    A MILESTONE IN ADVANCING AN AMERICA FIRST TRADE POLICY: Since Day One, President Trump challenged the assumption that American workers and businesses must tolerate unfair trade practices that have disadvantaged our workers and businesses for decades and contributed to our historic trade deficit.

    • Reversing these conditions and addressing the lack of reciprocity in America’s trade relationships will bring about a new Golden Age and Make America Great Again.
    • President Trump continues to advance the interests of the American people, enhancing market access for American exporters and lowering tariff and non-tariff barriers.
    • The Economic Prosperity Deal with the United Kingdom is a critical step forward in a special relationship to promote reciprocal trade with a key ally and partner.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Somaliland’s 30-year quest for recognition: could US interests make the difference?

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Aleksi Ylönen, Professor, United States International University

    More than three decades after unilaterally declaring independence from Somalia, Somaliland still seeks international recognition as a sovereign state. Despite a lack of formal acknowledgement, the breakaway state has built a relatively stable system of governance. This has drawn increasing interest from global powers, including the United States. As regional dynamics shift and great-power competition intensifies, Somaliland’s bid for recognition is gaining new currency. Aleksi Ylönen has studied politics in the Horn of Africa and Somaliland’s quest for recognition. He unpacks what’s at play.

    What legal and historical arguments does Somaliland use?

    The Somali National Movement is one of the main clan-based insurgent movements responsible for the collapse of the central government in Somalia. It claims the territory of the former British protectorate of Somaliland. The UK had granted Somaliland sovereign status on 26 June 1960.

    The Somali government tried to stomp out calls for secession. It orchestrated the brutal killing of hundreds of thousands of people in northern Somalia between 1987 and 1989.

    But the Somali National Movement declared unilateral independence on 18 May 1991 and separated from Somalia.

    With the collapse of the Somali regime in 1991, the movement’s main enemy was gone. This led to a violent power struggle between various militias.

    This subsided only after the politician Mohamed Egal consolidated power. He was elected president of Somaliland in May 1993.

    Egal made deals with merchants and businessmen, giving them tax and commercial incentives to accept his patronage. As a result, he obtained the economic means to consolidate political power and to pursue peace and state-building. It’s something his successors have kept up with since his death in 2002.

    What has Somaliland done to push for recognition?

    Successive Somaliland governments continue to engage in informal diplomacy. They have aligned with the west, particularly the US, which was the dominant power after the cold war, and the former colonial master, the UK. Both countries host significant Somaliland diaspora communities.

    The US and the UK have for decades flirted with the idea of recognising Somaliland, which they consider a strategic partner. However, they have been repeatedly thrown back by their respective Somalia policies. These have favoured empowering the widely supported Mogadishu government to reassert its authority and control over Somali territories.

    This Somalia policy has been increasingly questioned in recent years, in part due to Mogadishu’s security challenges. In contrast, the Hargeisa government of Somaliland has largely shown it can provide security and stability. It has held elections and survived as a state for the last three decades, though it has faced political resistance and armed opposition.

    Read more: Somaliland elections: what’s at stake for independence, stability and shifting power dynamics in the Horn of Africa

    As new global powers rise, Somaliland administrations have pursued an increasingly diverse foreign policy, with one goal: international recognition.

    Hargeisa hosts consulates and representative offices of Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Taiwan, the UK and the European Union, among others.

    The government has also engaged in informal foreign relations with the United Arab Emirates. The Middle Eastern monarchy serves as a business hub and a destination of livestock exports. Many Somalilanders migrate there.

    Somaliland maintains representative offices in several countries. These include Canada, the US, Norway, Sweden, the UK, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Taiwan. Hargeisa has alienated China because it has collaborated with Taiwan since 2020. Taiwan is a self-ruled island claimed by China.

    On 1 January 2024, Somaliland’s outgoing president Muse Bihi signed a memorandum of understanding with Ethiopian prime minister Abiy Ahmed for increased cooperation. Bihi implied that Ethiopia would be the first country to formally recognise Somaliland. The deal caused a sharp deterioration of relations between Addis Ababa and Mogadishu.

    Abiy later moderated his position and, with Turkish mediation, reconciled with his Somalia counterpart, President Hassan Mohamud.

    What’s behind US interest in Somaliland?

    The US, like other great powers, has been interested in Somaliland because of its strategic location. It is on the African shores of the Gulf of Aden, across from the Arabian Peninsula. Its geographical position has gained currency recently as Yemeni Houthi rebels strike maritime traffic in the busy shipping lanes. Somaliland is also well located to curb piracy and smuggling on this global trade route.

    The US Africa Command set up its main Horn of Africa base at Camp Lemonnier in Djibouti in 2002. This followed the 11 September 2001 attacks.

    Read more: Somaliland’s quest for recognition: UK debate offers hint of a sea change

    In 2017, China, which had become the main foreign economic power in the Horn of Africa, set up a navy support facility in Djibouti. This encouraged closer collaboration between American and Somaliland authorities. The US played with the idea of establishing a base in Berbera, which hosts Somaliland’s largest port.

    With Donald Trump winning the US presidential election in 2024, there were reports of an increased push for US recognition of Somaliland. This would allow the US to deepen its trade and security partnerships in the volatile Horn of Africa region.

    Since March 2025, representatives of the Trump administration have engaged in talks with Somaliland officials to establish a US military base near Berbera. This would be in exchange for a formal but partial recognition of Somaliland.

    What are the risks of US recognition of Somaliland?

    Stronger US engagement with Somaliland risks neglecting Somalia.

    Mogadishu depends on external military assistance in its battle against the advancing violent Islamist extremist group, Al-Shabaab. It also faces increasing defiance from two federal regions, Puntland and Jubaland.

    US recognition would reward Hargeisa for its persistent effort to maintain stability and promote democracy. However, it could encourage other nations to recognise Somaliland. This would deliver a blow to Somali nationalists who want one state for all Somalis.

    – Somaliland’s 30-year quest for recognition: could US interests make the difference?
    – https://theconversation.com/somalilands-30-year-quest-for-recognition-could-us-interests-make-the-difference-255399

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA – Cardinals and faithful from India and Pakistan united in prayer for peace

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    CCBI

    Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – Indian Cardinal Oswald Gracias and Pakistani Cardinal Joseph Coutts left St. Peter’s Basilica together yesterday, May 7, after the conclusion of the Mass “pro eligendo Romano Pontifice.” Cardinal Gracias (81) leaned on Cardinal Coutts (79), who extended his arm and conversed with his confrere. The image vividly expressed the desire for peace and the existing relationship of the community, while military tensions between the two countries of origin, India and Pakistan, increased and clashes continued, particularly in the disputed region of Kashmir. When asked for a statement and an appeal for peace, the two Cardinals told Fides: “In the General Congregation before the Conclave on May 6, the entire College of Cardinals issued a public appeal for peace, citing scenarios such as Ukraine and the Gaza Strip. The appeal also includes the expression ‘in many other parts of the world,’ and this certainly includes the current situation between India and Pakistan, in which we implore the Lord for a just and lasting peace.”Meanwhile, Theodore Mascarenhas, Bishop of the diocese of Daltonganj, in the Indian state of Jharkhand, who has just returned from a meeting of the Executive Commission of the Bishops’ Conference of India (CCBI) with about thirty other Indian bishops, told Fides: “At this meeting, we mentioned and focused our thoughts on the serious scenario of tensions between India and Pakistan. Our appeal is always a call for peace: we call for de-escalation, because war is always a defeat and serves no one. All problems, even those between states, can be resolved without violence. We bishops are united when we say and exhort our communities: Let us pray for peace.” On the ground, observers fear an escalation, as Pakistan has reportedly repelled Indian drone attacks on nine cities, including Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi, far from Kashmir. India, for its part, has evacuated thousands of people from villages near the highly militarized border between the two countries in the disputed Kashmir region. In the preceding days, 31 Pakistani civilians, including women and children, were killed in Indian missile attacks on nine locations in Kashmir and Pakistani Punjab as part of “Operation Sindoor,” which India said targeted facilities of “terrorist groups.” Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif promised revenge for the attacks by India, which now claims to have shot down Pakistani drones, stoking fears of a wider conflict between the two nuclear-armed states. According to the Indian Foreign Ministry, 13 civilians were killed and 59 wounded in the gun battles on the Kashmir border. The new wave of attacks and retaliatory strikes between India and Pakistan threatens to reignite the open conflict between the two countries, which has its roots in the 1947 partition. Since then, the two nations have fought three wars and there have been numerous firefights along the border in Kashmir, a predominantly Muslim region claimed by both countries since independence from the British Empire. (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 8/5/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AMERICA/PERU – “No matarás”: the country’s bishops condemn the murder of a group of workers at the hands of criminal gangs

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Thursday, 8 May 2025

    Internet

    Lima (Agenzia Fides) – “As a Church, we reaffirm our call to build a society in which life is respected and the dignity of every person is protected, and development is accompanied by justice, honesty, and charity,” said the Peruvian Bishops (CEP) in a joint statement condemning the murder of 13 workers kidnapped on April 25 in the town of Pataz, in the La Libertad region.”We feel deep pain and dismay at these criminal acts of organized crime, which are deeply damaging to human dignity and social peace,” emphasized Carlos García Camader, President of the Bishops’ Conference and Bishop of Lurín, in the statement.The victims are believed to have been murdered by criminal gangs linked to illegal mining.The bishops not only expressed their solidarity with the victims’ families and assured them of their prayers, but also strongly condemned the murders and called on the judicial authorities to speed up the investigations and ensure a fair trial.”Do not let yourselves be robbed of hope,” Bishop Camader appealed to Peruvians, quoting Pope Francis. He urged them not to give in to despair and emphasized that even in the midst of pain, it is possible to work for a more just and fraternal country. In recent months, the Peruvian government has extended the state of emergency in the capital, Lima, and the constitutional province of Callao for 30 days, starting on April 17, 2025. This is the first time since 2022. A total of 459 people were killed between January 1 and March 16, according to police, who registered 1,909 extortion charges in January aloneThe Bishops’ Conference reiterated its commitment to defending life and peace in the country. (AP) (Agenzia Fides, 8/5/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/INDIA – Salesian missionaries help young people seek for a job

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Thursday, 8 May 2025

    ANS

    Srikakulam (Agenzia Fides) – An initiative launched by the Salesian missionaries in the Diocese of Srikakulam aims not only to shape the conscience of young people but also to impart skills needed to enter the world of work. The diocese is located in one of the poorest districts of the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh.In a social context where youth unemployment is high in India, with approximately 42 out of 100 young people unable to find work in their preferred field, the missionaries’ initiative, implemented as part of a festival with cultural events and meetings with local businesses, proved not only to be a form of “employment agency” but also a moment that gave new hope to more than 500 young people from rural areas and their families.During the three-day event, jointly organized by DISHA, the career counseling and placement service of the Salesian Province of India-Hyderabad, the Don Bosco Job Placement Network, and the Diocese of Srikakulam, the young people also participated in sessions focused on communication, decision-making, emotional intelligence, goal setting, and teamwork, all aimed at helping the young people succeed in job interviews.Theater performances, songs, and various artistic performances complemented the training sessions and gave the young people the opportunity to showcase their talents. The artistic performances also addressed social issues relevant to the community, such as unemployment and migration. At the end of the festival, over 300 young people received job offers on site from the 15 participating companies from various sectors (including healthcare, retail, manufacturing, and IT services). (F.B.) (Agenzia Fides, 8/5/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: How to tell if a photo’s fake? You probably can’t. That’s why new rules are needed

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Martin Bekker, Computational Social Scientist, University of the Witwatersrand

    The problem is simple: it’s hard to know whether a photo’s real or not anymore. Photo manipulation tools are so good, so common and easy to use, that a picture’s truthfulness is no longer guaranteed.

    The situation got trickier with the uptake of generative artificial intelligence. Anyone with an internet connection can cook up just about any image, plausible or fantasy, with photorealistic quality, and present it as real. This affects our ability to discern truth in a world increasingly influenced by images.

    Read more: Can you tell the difference between real and fake news photos? Take the quiz to find out

    I teach and research the ethics of artificial intelligence (AI), including how we use and understand digital images.

    Many people ask how we can tell if an image has been changed, but that’s fast becoming too difficult. Instead, here I suggest a system where creators and users of images openly state what changes they’ve made. Any similar system will do, but new rules are needed if AI images are to be deployed ethically – at least among those who want to be trusted, especially media.

    Doing nothing isn’t an option, because what we believe about media affects how much we trust each other and our institutions. There are several ways forward. Clear labelling of photos is one of them.

    Deepfakes and fake news

    Photo manipulation was once the preserve of government propaganda teams, and later, expert users of Photoshop, the popular software for editing, altering or creating digital images.

    Today, digital photos are automatically subjected to colour-correcting filters on phones and cameras. Some social media tools automatically “prettify” users’ pictures of faces. Is a photo taken of oneself by oneself even real anymore?

    Read more: The use of deepfakes can sow doubt, creating confusion and distrust in viewers

    The basis of shared social understanding and consensus – trust regarding what one sees – is being eroded. This is accompanied by the apparent rise of untrustworthy (and often malicious) news reporting. We have new language for the situation: fake news (false reporting in general) and deepfakes (deliberately manipulated images, whether for waging war or garnering more social media followers).

    Misinformation campaigns using manipulated images can sway elections, deepen divisions, even incite violence. Scepticism towards trustworthy media has untethered ordinary people from fact-based accounting of events, and has fuelled conspiracy theories and fringe groups.

    Ethical questions

    A further problem for producers of images (personal or professional) is the difficulty of knowing what’s permissable. In a world of doctored images, is it acceptable to prettify yourself? How about editing an ex-partner out of a picture and posting it online?

    Would it matter if a well-respected western newspaper published a photo of Russian president Vladimir Putin pulling his face in disgust (an expression that he surely has made at some point, but of which no actual image has been captured, say) using AI?

    The ethical boundaries blur further in highly charged contexts. Does it matter if opposition political ads against then-presidential candidate Barack Obama in the US deliberately darkened his skin?

    Would generated images of dead bodies in Gaza be more palatable, perhaps more moral, than actual photographs of dead humans? Is a magazine cover showing a model digitally altered to unattainable beauty standards, while not declaring the level of photo manipulation, unethical?

    A fix

    Part of the solution to this social problem demands two simple and clear actions. First, declare that photo manipulation has taken place. Second, disclose what kind of photo manipulation was carried out.

    The first step is straightforward: in the same way pictures are published with author credits, a clear and unobtrusive “enhancement acknowledgement” or EA should be added to caption lines.

    Read more: AI isn’t what we should be worried about – it’s the humans controlling it

    The second is about how an image has been altered. Here I call for five “categories of manipulation” (not unlike a film rating). Accountability and clarity create an ethical foundation.

    The five categories could be:

    C – Corrected

    Edits that preserve the essence of the original photo while refining its overall clarity or aesthetic appeal – like colour balance (such as contrast) or lens distortion. Such corrections are often automated (for instance by smartphone cameras) but can be performed manually.

    E – Enhanced

    Alterations that are mainly about colour or tone adjustments. This extends to slight cosmetic retouching, like the removal of minor blemishes (such as acne) or the artificial addition of makeup, provided the edits don’t reshape physical features or objects. This includes all filters involving colour changes.

    B – Body manipulated

    This is flagged when a physical feature is altered. Changes in body shape, like slimming arms or enlarging shoulders, or the altering of skin or hair colour, fall under this category.

    O – Object manipulated

    This declares that the physical position of an object has been changed. A finger or limb moved, a vase added, a person edited out, a background element added or removed.

    G – Generated

    Entirely fabricated yet photorealistic depictions, such as a scene that never existed, must be flagged here. So, all images created digitally, including by generative AI, but limited to photographic depictions. (An AI-generated cartoon of the pope would be excluded, but a photo-like picture of the pontiff in a puffer jacket is rated G.)

    Degrees of photo manipulation. Martin Bekker

    The suggested categories are value-blind: they are (or ought to be) triggered simply by the occurrence of any manipulation. So, colour filters applied to an image of a politician trigger an E category, whether the alteration makes the person appear friendlier or scarier. A critical feature for accepting a rating system like this is that it is transparent and unbiased.

    The CEBOG categories above aren’t fixed, there may be overlap: B (Body manipulated) might often imply E (Enhanced), for example.

    Feasibility

    Responsible photo manipulation software may automatically indicate to users the class of photo manipulation carried out. If needed it could watermark it, or it could simply capture it in the picture’s metadata (as with data about the source, owner or photographer). Automation could very well ensure ease of use, and perhaps reduce human error, encouraging consistent application across platforms.

    Read more: Can you spot a financial fake? How AI is raising our risks of billing fraud

    Of course, displaying the rating will ultimately be an editorial decision, and good users, like good editors, will do this responsibly, hopefully maintaining or improving the reputation of their images and publications. While one would hope that social media would buy into this kind of editorial ideal and encourage labelled images, much room for ambiguity and deception remains.

    The success of an initiative like this hinges on technology developers, media organisations and policymakers collaborating to create a shared commitment to transparency in digital media.

    – How to tell if a photo’s fake? You probably can’t. That’s why new rules are needed
    – https://theconversation.com/how-to-tell-if-a-photos-fake-you-probably-cant-thats-why-new-rules-are-needed-252645

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Springfield man sentenced to over 30 years in prison for crypto-terror financing scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Springfield man was sentenced yesterday to 30 years and four months in prison for his efforts to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization.

    According to court records and evidence presented at trial, from at least October 2019 through October of 2022, Mohammed Azharuddin Chhipa, 35, collected and sent money to female ISIS members in Syria to benefit ISIS in various ways, including by financing the escape of female ISIS members from prison camps and supporting ISIS fighters. Chhipa would raise funds online on various social media accounts. He would receive electronic transfers of funds and travel hundreds of miles to collect funds by hand. He would then convert the money to cryptocurrency and send it to Turkey, where it was smuggled to ISIS members in Syria.

    “This defendant directly financed ISIS in its efforts to commit vile terrorist atrocities against innocent citizens in America and abroad,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “This severe sentence illustrates that if you fund terrorism, we will prosecute you and put you behind bars for decades.”

    “Those who fund and facilitate terror bear the same responsibility as those who carry out attacks,” said Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “Mohammed Chhipa knowingly and persistently collected and provided a considerable amount of money to fund the violence of an organization bent on forcing their extremist ideology on others. That he did so from a nation that holds individual freedom sacrosanct is unconscionable.”

    “With this sentencing, this defendant will pay the price for helping finance ISIS, a brutal terrorist organization,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “This is more proof that the FBI will investigate and work with our DOJ partners to hold accountable anyone who assists ISIS or other terrorist groups. Whether you are a fighter or send money, these activities are illegal and against the national security interests of the United States.”

    “Mr. Chhipa transferred more than $185,000 to members of a designated terrorist organization,” said Steven J. Jensen, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office. “Such funds could have been used to enable terrorist operations and attacks targeting innocent U.S. citizens at home and abroad. Today’s sentencing underscores the FBI’s commitment to severing these streams of funding and keeping the American people safe.”

    His primary co-conspirator was an ISIS member residing in Syria who was involved in raising funds for prison escapes, terrorist attacks, and ISIS fighters.

    Over the course of the conspiracy, Chhipa sent over $185,000 in cryptocurrency.

    In December 2024, a federal jury convicted Chhipa of one count of conspiracy to provide material support or resources to a designated foreign terrorist organization and four counts of providing and attempting to provide material support or resources to a designated foreign terrorist organization.

    The FBI Washington Field Office investigated the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony T. Aminoff and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda St. Cyr for the Eastern District of Virginia and Trial Attorney Andrew John Dixon and former Trial Attorney Andrea Broach for the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:23-cr-97.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Subsea 7 S.A. announces changes to Board composition

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Luxembourg – 8 May 2025 – Subsea 7 S.A. (Oslo Børs: SUBC, ADR: SUBCY) today announced the election of Lucia Andrade as a Non-Executive Director at the 2025 annual general meeting of shareholders (AGM) and the decision of Jean Cahuzac to retire from his position as Non-Executive Director with immediate effect.

    Jean has served on the Board since 2008, and was also CEO of Subsea7 until 31 December 2019. The Board would like to thank him for his commitment and valuable contribution to Subsea7.

    Jean was a member of the Compensation Committee and the Tender Committee and changes to committee memberships will be discussed at the next meeting of the Board, later this month.

    *******************************************************************************
    Subsea7 is a global leader in the delivery of offshore projects and services for the evolving energy industry, creating sustainable value by being the industry’s partner and employer of choice in delivering the efficient offshore solutions the world needs.
    Subsea7 is listed on the Oslo Børs (SUBC), ISIN LU0075646355, LEI 222100AIF0CBCY80AH62.

    *******************************************************************************

    Contact for investment community enquiries:
    Katherine Tonks
    Investor Relations Director
    Tel +44 20 8210 5568
    ir@subsea7.com
    agm@subsea7.com

    This information is subject of the disclosure requirements of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.
    This stock exchange release was published by Katherine Tonks, Investor Relations, Subsea7, on 8 May 2025 at 17:00 CET.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Subsea 7 S.A. – 2025 AGM and EGM

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Luxembourg – 8 May 2025 – Subsea 7 S.A. (Oslo Børs: SUBC, ADR: SUBCY, the Company) today announced that, at the 2025 annual general meeting of shareholders (AGM) on 8 May 2025, all resolutions were approved, including the payment of a dividend of NOK 13.00 per common share, to be paid in two equal instalments.

    In addition, at the subsequent extraordinary general meeting of shareholders (EGM) on the same day, both proposed resolutions, which related to (i) to the authority of the Board of Directors to repurchase and, as the case may be, to subsequently cancel Company shares and reduce the issued share capital accordingly and (ii) the renewal of authorisation for the Board of Directors to issue new shares and to limit or suppress preferential subscription rights, for up to 10% of the issued share capital, were approved.

    The minutes of both the AGM and EGM which detail the resolutions passed and the result of the votes cast in relation to each resolution and the changes to the Company’s articles of association are attached hereto. The minutes can also be found on the Company’s website.

    *******************************************************************************
    Subsea7 is a global leader in the delivery of offshore projects and services for the evolving energy industry, creating sustainable value by being the industry’s partner and employer of choice in delivering the efficient offshore solutions the world needs.

    Subsea7 is listed on the Oslo Børs (SUBC), ISIN LU0075646355, LEI 222100AIF0CBCY80AH62.

    *******************************************************************************

    Contact for investment community enquiries:
    Katherine Tonks
    Investor Relations Director
    Tel +44 20 8210 5568
    ir@subsea7.com
    agm@subsea7.com

    This information is subject to the disclosure requirements of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act. 
    This stock exchange release was published by Katherine Tonks, Investor Relations, Subsea7, on 8 May 2025 at 17:15 CET.

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media concludes visit to European institutions

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

    Headline: OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media concludes visit to European institutions

    The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media (RFoM) Jan Braathu, concluded his first visit to European Institutions today.
    During his visit, the RFoM discussed current challenges to media freedom across EU Member States and the broader OSCE region with the cabinets of European Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, and the Rule of the Law, Commissioner for Tech Sovereignty, Security, and Democracy,  Commissioner for Enlargement, with the European External Action Service (EEAS) as well as journalist and media freedom organizations.
    “We must reiterate that free, pluralistic, quality media are a prerequisite to democracy, security and sustained peace,” the RFoM highlighted. “In order to address the challenges to our common peace and security framework, we have to strengthen synergies between like-minded institutions,” Ambassador Braathu emphasized.
    In meetings with EU interlocutors, the RFoM discussed the EU regulatory landscape affecting the media and information landscape such as the European Media Freedom Act, the Digital Services Act, the Anti-SLAPP Directive and the AI Act as well as new initiatives such as the Democracy Shield.
    “Any comprehensive tool to defend democracy needs to be rooted in robust safeguards for media pluralism and freedom as essential elements of upholding democratic values,” the RFoM underlined when discussing key elements of the Democracy Shield such as economic viability, the safety of journalists, challenges and opportunities posed by AI, and media literacy.
    Prior to the visit, on 7 May, the Representative attended UNESCO’s World Press Freedom Day Conference, where he met with high-level representatives of UNESCO and joined the other international and regional Freedom of Expression Mandate Holders to present the Joint Statement on Artificial Intelligence and Freedom of Expression.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: HMRC interest rates for late payments will be revised following the Bank of England interest rate cut to 4.25%.

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    HMRC interest rates for late payments will be revised following the Bank of England interest rate cut to 4.25%.

    The Bank of England Monetary Policy Committee announced on 8 May 2025 to reduce the Bank of England base rate to 4.25% from 4.50%.

    HMRC interest rates are linked to the Bank of England base rate.

    As a consequence of the change in the base rate, HMRC interest rates for late payment and repayment will reduce.

    These changes will come into effect on:

    • 19 May 2025 for quarterly instalment payments
    • 28 May 2025 for non-quarterly instalments payments

    Information on the interest rates for payments will be updated shortly.

    How HMRC interest rates are set

    HMRC interest rates are set in legislation and are linked to the Bank of England base rate.

    Late payment interest is currently set at base rate plus 4.00%. Repayment interest is set at base rate minus 1%, with a lower limit – or ‘minimum floor’ – of 0.5%.

    The differential between late payment interest and repayment interest is in line with the policy of other tax authorities worldwide and compares favourably with commercial practice for interest charged on loans or overdrafts and interest paid on deposits.

    The rate of late payment interest encourages prompt payment and ensures fairness for those who pay their tax on time, while the rate of repayment interest fairly compensates taxpayers for loss of use of their money when they overpay.

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to study looking at Parkinson’s Disease risk and proximity to golf courses

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A study published in JAMA Network Open looks at proximity to Golf Courses and the risk of Parkinson’s Disease.

    Prof David Dexter, Director of Research, Parkinson’s UK, said: 

    “This study suggests an association between pesticides and Parkinson’s, however there are some important limitations in the methodology to be aware of. Firstly, Parkinson’s starts in the brain 10-15 years before diagnosis and the study didn’t only use subjects who permanently lived in the area. This would not only affect participants’ exposure, but also suggests their Parkinson’s could have started before they moved around a golf course. The population was also not matched for location with 80% of the Parkinson’s subjects living in urban areas, compared to only 30% of controls, hence other factors like air pollution from motor vehicles etc could also account for some of the increases in Parkinson’s incidence. Additionally, no analysis was made of the drinking water for pesticide levels. Once again, this lessens the validity of the claim of pesticide exposure because the studies have not been carefully controlled.”

     

    Dr Katherine Fletcher, Research Lead at Parkinson’s UK, said:

    “Parkinson’s is complex. The causes of the condition are unclear and are likely to involve both genetic and environmental factors. Many studies have investigated whether pesticides increase the risk of developing Parkinson’s in different populations around the world. The results have been varied, but overall suggest that exposure to pesticides may increase the risk of the condition. However, the evidence is not strong enough to show that pesticide exposure directly causes Parkinson’s. This study supports the association between pesticides and Parkinson’s. However, it’s quite reductive and doesn’t take into account how someone might have been exposed to pesticides at their workplace or whether they have a genetic link to the condition.

    “In Europe and the UK, the use of pesticides are strictly controlled, and some – like paraquat – are banned, due to concerns about their wider health and environmental impacts. So, the risk of exposure to these for most people is extremely low.”

     

    ‘Proximity to Golf Courses and Risk of Parkinson Disease’ by Krzyzanowski et al. was published in JAMA Network Open at 16:00 UK time on Thursday 08th May 2025.

     

    DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2025.9198

     

    Declared interests

    Prof David Dexter: “The author declares that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence their comment reported in this article.”

    Dr Katherine Fletcher: “The author declares that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence their comment reported in this article.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Assessing the U.S. Climate in April 2025

    Source: US National Oceanographic Data Center

    Key Points:

    • A slow-moving storm system in early April brought widespread flooding and over 150 tornadoes to the South and Midwest, resulting in numerous injuries and at least 24 fatalities.
    • April temperatures were particularly warm across the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic, with near-record warmth observed in the Carolinas and neighboring states.
    • Alaska had its second-wettest April on record and its fourth-warmest year to date.
    • Heavy rain in Puerto Rico in late April triggered flash flooding and landslides.
    Map of the U.S. selected significant climate anomalies and events in April 2025.

    Other Highlights:

    Temperature

    April U.S. Mean Temperature Departures from Average Map

    The average temperature for the contiguous U.S. (CONUS) in April was 53.6°F, which is 2.6°F above the long-term average and ranks in the warmest third of the 131-year record. April temperatures were above average across much of the Lower 48, with much-above-average warmth observed across the South and Atlantic coastal regions. North Carolina and Virginia observed their second-warmest average April temperatures on record, with South Carolina and Georgia recording their third- and fourth-warmest (tied), respectively. For the year to date, the CONUS average temperature was 41.1°F, 2.0°F above average, ranking in the warmest third of the record for this January–April period.

    The Alaska statewide April temperature was 27.5°F, 4.2°F above the long-term average, ranking in the warmest third of the 101-year period of record. While temperatures were near average across much of western Alaska in April, above-average warmth dominated the eastern part of the state. Alaska’s January–April average temperature was 17.8°F, 7.5°F above the long-term average, ranking as the fourth warmest on record, with much of the state experiencing much-above-average temperatures during this period.

    Hawai’i had an average temperature of 65.9°F in April, 1.1°F above the 1991–2020 average and ranking in the warmest third of the 35-year record. Hawai’i had its second-warmest (tied) January–April average temperature of 64.8°F, 1.1°F above the 1991–2020 average for this period.

    Precipitation

    April 2025 U.S. Total Precipitation Percentiles

    April precipitation for the CONUS was 2.82 inches, 0.30 inch above average, ranking in the upper third of the historical record. Drier-than-average conditions were observed from the West to the central Rockies, and along parts of the Gulf and Atlantic coastal regions. Conversely, above-average precipitation fell across a broad area stretching from the southern Plains through the middle Mississippi Valley into the Ohio Valley and lower Great Lakes, as well as in portions of the northern Plains, upper Mississippi Valley and far Northeast. Kentucky recorded its second-highest average rainfall for the month of April, while Oklahoma and Missouri saw their third- and fourth-wettest Aprils, respectively. The January–April precipitation total for the CONUS was 8.77 inches, 0.70 inch below average, ranking in the driest third of the record for this period.

    Alaska’s average precipitation in April ranked as the second wettest in the 101-year record, with particularly wet conditions along the Gulf of Alaska coast and the northern Southeast region. Near-record-high snowfall was observed at the Alyeska (36.6 inches) and Denali National Park (26.5 inches) stations—these totals were the second-highest on record for April. The January–April precipitation total for Alaska was 10.97 inches, 1.80 inches above average, ranking in the wettest third on record for the period

    Precipitation averaged across Hawai’i in April totaled 4.11 inches, 0.90 inch below average, ranking in the middle third of the 1991–2025 record. Drier-than-average conditions were mostly observed on the eastern portions of Moloka’i, Maui and the Big Island, while most other areas experienced above-average rainfall. Precipitation across Hawai’i for January–April was 15.65 inches, 6.42 inches below average, ranking in the driest third of the 1991–2025 record.

    Drought

    According to the April 29 U.S. Drought Monitor report, approximately 37.0% of the contiguous U.S. was in drought, down about 6.4% from the beginning of the month. Drought conditions expanded or intensified across parts of the Southwest, southern Rockies, northern High Plains, Florida and Hawai’i. Meanwhile, drought contracted or was reduced in intensity across much of the central U.S., parts of southern Appalachia and the Great Lakes region.

    Monthly Outlook

    Much of the country is expected to be warmer than average in May, from the Rockies eastward to the Atlantic and southward to the Gulf Coast. Above-average precipitation is favored in parts of the West and Rockies, and is likely across the southern Plains, while drier-than-average conditions are expected in the upper Mississippi Valley and Great Lakes region.

    Drought conditions in May are likely to persist across the Southwest and northern Plains, with some improvement in the central Great Basin. Portions of the southern and central Plains should see some drought improvement and areas of removal, but the upper Mississippi Valley can expect some areas of drought development. Drought will likely persist and expand across the Carolinas and western Virginia; conditions in some areas further northeast are expected to improve.

    Visit the Climate Prediction Center’s Official 30-Day Forecasts and U.S. Monthly Drought Outlook website for more details.

    Significant wildland fire potential for May is above normal for parts of the Southwest and upper Mississippi Valley, and from the Mid-Atlantic coastal regions down to Florida. For additional information on wildland fire potential, visit the National Interagency Fire Center’s One-Month Wildland Fire Outlook.

    For more detailed climate information, check out our comprehensive April 2025 U.S. Climate Report scheduled for release on May 12, 2025. For additional information on the statistics provided here, visit the Climate at a Glance and National Maps webpages.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Man Sentenced to Over 30 Years in Prison for Crypto-Terror Financing Scheme

    Source: US State of California

    A Springfield, Virginia, man was sentenced yesterday to 364 months in prison for his efforts to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization.

    According to court records and evidence presented at trial, from at least October 2019 through October 2022, Mohammed Azharuddin Chhipa, 35, collected and sent money to female ISIS members in Syria to benefit ISIS in various ways, including by financing the escape of female ISIS members from prison camps and supporting ISIS fighters. Chhipa would raise funds online on various social media accounts. He would receive electronic transfers of funds and travel hundreds of miles to collect funds by hand. He would then convert the money to cryptocurrency and send it to Turkey, where it was smuggled to ISIS members in Syria.

    “This defendant directly financed ISIS in its efforts to commit vile terrorist atrocities against innocent citizens in America and abroad,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “This severe sentence illustrates that if you fund terrorism, we will prosecute you and put you behind bars for decades.”

    “With this sentencing, this defendant will pay the price for helping finance ISIS, a brutal terrorist organization,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “This is more proof that the FBI will investigate and work with our DOJ partners to hold accountable anyone who assists ISIS or other terrorist groups. Whether you are a fighter or send money, these activities are illegal and against the national security interests of the United States.”

    “Those who fund and facilitate terror bear the same responsibility as those who carry out attacks,” said U.S. Attorney Erik S. Siebert for the Eastern District of Virginia. “Mohammed Chhipa knowingly and persistently collected and provided a considerable amount of money to fund the violence of an organization bent on forcing their extremist ideology on others. That he did so from a nation that holds individual freedom sacrosanct is unconscionable.”

    His primary co-conspirator was an ISIS member residing in Syria who was involved in raising funds for prison escapes, terrorist attacks, and ISIS fighters.

    Over the course of the conspiracy, Chhipa sent over $185,000 in cryptocurrency.

    In December 2024, a federal jury convicted Chhipa of one count of conspiracy to provide material support or resources to a designated foreign terrorist organization and four counts of providing and attempting to provide material support or resources to a designated foreign terrorist organization.

    The FBI Washington Field Office investigated the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony T. Aminoff and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda St. Cyr for the Eastern District of Virginia and Trial Attorney Andrew John Dixon and former Trial Attorney Andrea Broach of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section prosecuted the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Somaliland’s 30-year quest for recognition: could US interests make the difference?

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Aleksi Ylönen, Professor, United States International University

    More than three decades after unilaterally declaring independence from Somalia, Somaliland still seeks international recognition as a sovereign state. Despite a lack of formal acknowledgement, the breakaway state has built a relatively stable system of governance. This has drawn increasing interest from global powers, including the United States. As regional dynamics shift and great-power competition intensifies, Somaliland’s bid for recognition is gaining new currency. Aleksi Ylönen has studied politics in the Horn of Africa and Somaliland’s quest for recognition. He unpacks what’s at play.

    What legal and historical arguments does Somaliland use?

    The Somali National Movement is one of the main clan-based insurgent movements responsible for the collapse of the central government in Somalia. It claims the territory of the former British protectorate of Somaliland. The UK had granted Somaliland sovereign status on 26 June 1960.

    The Somali government tried to stomp out calls for secession. It orchestrated the brutal killing of hundreds of thousands of people in northern Somalia between 1987 and 1989.

    But the Somali National Movement declared unilateral independence on 18 May 1991 and separated from Somalia.

    With the collapse of the Somali regime in 1991, the movement’s main enemy was gone. This led to a violent power struggle between various militias.

    This subsided only after the politician Mohamed Egal consolidated power. He was elected president of Somaliland in May 1993.

    Egal made deals with merchants and businessmen, giving them tax and commercial incentives to accept his patronage. As a result, he obtained the economic means to consolidate political power and to pursue peace and state-building. It’s something his successors have kept up with since his death in 2002.

    What has Somaliland done to push for recognition?

    Successive Somaliland governments continue to engage in informal diplomacy. They have aligned with the west, particularly the US, which was the dominant power after the cold war, and the former colonial master, the UK. Both countries host significant Somaliland diaspora communities.

    The US and the UK have for decades flirted with the idea of recognising Somaliland, which they consider a strategic partner. However, they have been repeatedly thrown back by their respective Somalia policies. These have favoured empowering the widely supported Mogadishu government to reassert its authority and control over Somali territories.

    This Somalia policy has been increasingly questioned in recent years, in part due to Mogadishu’s security challenges. In contrast, the Hargeisa government of Somaliland has largely shown it can provide security and stability. It has held elections and survived as a state for the last three decades, though it has faced political resistance and armed opposition.



    Read more:
    Somaliland elections: what’s at stake for independence, stability and shifting power dynamics in the Horn of Africa

    As new global powers rise, Somaliland administrations have pursued an increasingly diverse foreign policy, with one goal: international recognition.

    Hargeisa hosts consulates and representative offices of Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Taiwan, the UK and the European Union, among others.

    The government has also engaged in informal foreign relations with the United Arab Emirates. The Middle Eastern monarchy serves as a business hub and a destination of livestock exports. Many Somalilanders migrate there.

    Somaliland maintains representative offices in several countries. These include Canada, the US, Norway, Sweden, the UK, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Taiwan. Hargeisa has alienated China because it has collaborated with Taiwan since 2020. Taiwan is a self-ruled island claimed by China.

    On 1 January 2024, Somaliland’s outgoing president Muse Bihi signed a memorandum of understanding with Ethiopian prime minister Abiy Ahmed for increased cooperation. Bihi implied that Ethiopia would be the first country to formally recognise Somaliland. The deal caused a sharp deterioration of relations between Addis Ababa and Mogadishu.

    Abiy later moderated his position and, with Turkish mediation, reconciled with his Somalia counterpart, President Hassan Mohamud.

    What’s behind US interest in Somaliland?

    The US, like other great powers, has been interested in Somaliland because of its strategic location. It is on the African shores of the Gulf of Aden, across from the Arabian Peninsula. Its geographical position has gained currency recently as Yemeni Houthi rebels strike maritime traffic in the busy shipping lanes. Somaliland is also well located to curb piracy and smuggling on this global trade route.

    The US Africa Command set up its main Horn of Africa base at Camp Lemonnier in Djibouti in 2002. This followed the 11 September 2001 attacks.



    Read more:
    Somaliland’s quest for recognition: UK debate offers hint of a sea change

    In 2017, China, which had become the main foreign economic power in the Horn of Africa, set up a navy support facility in Djibouti. This encouraged closer collaboration between American and Somaliland authorities. The US played with the idea of establishing a base in Berbera, which hosts Somaliland’s largest port.

    With Donald Trump winning the US presidential election in 2024, there were reports of an increased push for US recognition of Somaliland. This would allow the US to deepen its trade and security partnerships in the volatile Horn of Africa region.

    Since March 2025, representatives of the Trump administration have engaged in talks with Somaliland officials to establish a US military base near Berbera. This would be in exchange for a formal but partial recognition of Somaliland.

    What are the risks of US recognition of Somaliland?

    Stronger US engagement with Somaliland risks neglecting Somalia.

    Mogadishu depends on external military assistance in its battle against the advancing violent Islamist extremist group, Al-Shabaab. It also faces increasing defiance from two federal regions, Puntland and Jubaland.

    US recognition would reward Hargeisa for its persistent effort to maintain stability and promote democracy. However, it could encourage other nations to recognise Somaliland. This would deliver a blow to Somali nationalists who want one state for all Somalis.

    Aleksi Ylönen is affiliated with the Center for International Studies, Iscte-Instituto Universitário de Lisboa, and is an associate fellow at the HORN International Institute for Strategic Studies.

    – ref. Somaliland’s 30-year quest for recognition: could US interests make the difference? – https://theconversation.com/somalilands-30-year-quest-for-recognition-could-us-interests-make-the-difference-255399

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How to tell if a photo’s fake? You probably can’t. That’s why new rules are needed

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Martin Bekker, Computational Social Scientist, University of the Witwatersrand

    The problem is simple: it’s hard to know whether a photo’s real or not anymore. Photo manipulation tools are so good, so common and easy to use, that a picture’s truthfulness is no longer guaranteed.

    The situation got trickier with the uptake of generative artificial intelligence. Anyone with an internet connection can cook up just about any image, plausible or fantasy, with photorealistic quality, and present it as real. This affects our ability to discern truth in a world increasingly influenced by images.



    Read more:
    Can you tell the difference between real and fake news photos? Take the quiz to find out

    I teach and research the ethics of artificial intelligence (AI), including how we use and understand digital images.

    Many people ask how we can tell if an image has been changed, but that’s fast becoming too difficult. Instead, here I suggest a system where creators and users of images openly state what changes they’ve made. Any similar system will do, but new rules are needed if AI images are to be deployed ethically – at least among those who want to be trusted, especially media.

    Doing nothing isn’t an option, because what we believe about media affects how much we trust each other and our institutions. There are several ways forward. Clear labelling of photos is one of them.

    Deepfakes and fake news

    Photo manipulation was once the preserve of government propaganda teams, and later, expert users of Photoshop, the popular software for editing, altering or creating digital images.

    Today, digital photos are automatically subjected to colour-correcting filters on phones and cameras. Some social media tools automatically “prettify” users’ pictures of faces. Is a photo taken of oneself by oneself even real anymore?



    Read more:
    The use of deepfakes can sow doubt, creating confusion and distrust in viewers

    The basis of shared social understanding and consensus – trust regarding what one sees – is being eroded. This is accompanied by the apparent rise of untrustworthy (and often malicious) news reporting. We have new language for the situation: fake news (false reporting in general) and deepfakes (deliberately manipulated images, whether for waging war or garnering more social media followers).

    Misinformation campaigns using manipulated images can sway elections, deepen divisions, even incite violence. Scepticism towards trustworthy media has untethered ordinary people from fact-based accounting of events, and has fuelled conspiracy theories and fringe groups.

    Ethical questions

    A further problem for producers of images (personal or professional) is the difficulty of knowing what’s permissable. In a world of doctored images, is it acceptable to prettify yourself? How about editing an ex-partner out of a picture and posting it online?

    Would it matter if a well-respected western newspaper published a photo of Russian president Vladimir Putin pulling his face in disgust (an expression that he surely has made at some point, but of which no actual image has been captured, say) using AI?

    The ethical boundaries blur further in highly charged contexts. Does it matter if opposition political ads against then-presidential candidate Barack Obama in the US deliberately darkened his skin?

    Would generated images of dead bodies in Gaza be more palatable, perhaps more moral, than actual photographs of dead humans? Is a magazine cover showing a model digitally altered to unattainable beauty standards, while not declaring the level of photo manipulation, unethical?

    A fix

    Part of the solution to this social problem demands two simple and clear actions. First, declare that photo manipulation has taken place. Second, disclose what kind of photo manipulation was carried out.

    The first step is straightforward: in the same way pictures are published with author credits, a clear and unobtrusive “enhancement acknowledgement” or EA should be added to caption lines.



    Read more:
    AI isn’t what we should be worried about – it’s the humans controlling it

    The second is about how an image has been altered. Here I call for five “categories of manipulation” (not unlike a film rating). Accountability and clarity create an ethical foundation.

    The five categories could be:

    C – Corrected

    Edits that preserve the essence of the original photo while refining its overall clarity or aesthetic appeal – like colour balance (such as contrast) or lens distortion. Such corrections are often automated (for instance by smartphone cameras) but can be performed manually.

    E – Enhanced

    Alterations that are mainly about colour or tone adjustments. This extends to slight cosmetic retouching, like the removal of minor blemishes (such as acne) or the artificial addition of makeup, provided the edits don’t reshape physical features or objects. This includes all filters involving colour changes.

    B – Body manipulated

    This is flagged when a physical feature is altered. Changes in body shape, like slimming arms or enlarging shoulders, or the altering of skin or hair colour, fall under this category.

    O – Object manipulated

    This declares that the physical position of an object has been changed. A finger or limb moved, a vase added, a person edited out, a background element added or removed.

    G – Generated

    Entirely fabricated yet photorealistic depictions, such as a scene that never existed, must be flagged here. So, all images created digitally, including by generative AI, but limited to photographic depictions. (An AI-generated cartoon of the pope would be excluded, but a photo-like picture of the pontiff in a puffer jacket is rated G.)

    The suggested categories are value-blind: they are (or ought to be) triggered simply by the occurrence of any manipulation. So, colour filters applied to an image of a politician trigger an E category, whether the alteration makes the person appear friendlier or scarier. A critical feature for accepting a rating system like this is that it is transparent and unbiased.

    The CEBOG categories above aren’t fixed, there may be overlap: B (Body manipulated) might often imply E (Enhanced), for example.

    Feasibility

    Responsible photo manipulation software may automatically indicate to users the class of photo manipulation carried out. If needed it could watermark it, or it could simply capture it in the picture’s metadata (as with data about the source, owner or photographer). Automation could very well ensure ease of use, and perhaps reduce human error, encouraging consistent application across platforms.



    Read more:
    Can you spot a financial fake? How AI is raising our risks of billing fraud

    Of course, displaying the rating will ultimately be an editorial decision, and good users, like good editors, will do this responsibly, hopefully maintaining or improving the reputation of their images and publications. While one would hope that social media would buy into this kind of editorial ideal and encourage labelled images, much room for ambiguity and deception remains.

    The success of an initiative like this hinges on technology developers, media organisations and policymakers collaborating to create a shared commitment to transparency in digital media.

    Martin Bekker receives funding from the National Research Foundation in South Africa.

    – ref. How to tell if a photo’s fake? You probably can’t. That’s why new rules are needed – https://theconversation.com/how-to-tell-if-a-photos-fake-you-probably-cant-thats-why-new-rules-are-needed-252645

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Could CT scans really lead to a rise in cancer cases?

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    By Justin Stebbing, Anglia Ruskin University

    CT scans are a vital part of modern medicine. Found in every hospital and many clinics, they give doctors a fast and detailed look inside the body – helping to diagnose everything from cancer and strokes to internal injuries. But a new study suggests there may be a hidden cost to our growing reliance on this technology.

    The study, published in Jama Internal Medicine, warns that CT scans performed in the US in 2023 alone could eventually lead to over 100,000 extra cancer cases. If the current rate of scanning continues, the researchers say CT scans could be responsible for around 5% of all new cancers diagnosed each year.

    That figure has raised concerns. Especially when you consider that the number of CT scans done in the US has jumped by 30% in just over a decade. In 2023, there were an estimated 93 million CT exams carried out on 62 million people.

    The risk from a single scan is low – but not zero. And the younger the patient, the greater the risk. Children and teenagers are especially vulnerable because their bodies are still developing, and any damage caused by ionising radiation may not show up until many years later.

    That said, over 90% of CT scans are performed on adults, so it’s this group that faces the largest overall impact. The most common cancers linked to CT exposure are lung, colon, bladder and leukaemia. For women, breast cancer is also a significant concern.

    What makes this latest estimate so striking is how much it has grown. In 2009, a similar analysis projected around 29,000 future cancers linked to CT scans. The new number is over three times higher – not just because of more scans, but because newer research allows for a more detailed analysis of radiation exposure to specific organs.

    The study also makes an eye-catching comparison: if things stay as they are, CT-related cancers could match the number of cancers caused by alcohol or excess weight – two well-known risk factors.

    Not all scans carry the same level of risk. In adults, scans of the abdomen and pelvis are thought to contribute the most to future cancer cases. In children, it’s head CTs that pose the biggest concern – especially for babies under the age of one.

    Often life-saving

    Despite all this, doctors stress that CT scans are often life-saving and remain essential in many cases. They help catch conditions early, guide treatment and are crucial in emergencies. The challenge is making sure they’re only used when really needed.

    Newer technologies could help reduce the risk. Photon-counting CT scanners, for example, deliver lower doses of radiation, and MRI scans don’t use radiation at all. The researchers suggest that better use of diagnostic checklists could also help doctors decide when a scan is necessary, and when a safer alternative like MRI or ultrasound might do the job.

    It’s worth noting that this study doesn’t prove CT scans cause cancer in individual people. The estimates are based on “risk models” – not direct evidence. In fact, the American College of Radiology points out that no study has yet linked CT scans directly to cancer in humans, even after multiple scans.

    Still, the idea that radiation can cause cancer isn’t new. It’s scientifically sound. And with the huge number of scans being done, even small risks can add up.

    CT scans save lives, but they’re not risk-free. As medical technology evolves, so too should the way we use it. By cutting down on unnecessary scans, using safer alternatives where possible, and keeping radiation doses as low as practical, we can ensure CT scans continue to help more than they harm.

    Justin Stebbing, Professor of Biomedical Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University

    This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

    The opinions expressed in VIEWPOINT articles are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of ARU.

    If you wish to republish this article, please follow these guidelines: https://theconversation.com/uk/republishing-guidelines

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Study: Music therapy helps brain-injured children

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    Music could provide a breakthrough in assessing consciousness levels in children who have suffered significant brain injuries, according to new research published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology.

    Children with disorders of consciousness rely on those caring for them to provide all aspects of their daily living, including hydration, nutrition, washing and dressing.

    There is currently a lack of tools to assess consciousness in children aged between two and 18, and assessing awareness in children is complicated by neurodevelopmental changes that occur as the child ages.

    To tackle this, researchers at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU), The Children’s Trust and Temple University have developed the MuSICCA (Music therapy Sensory Instrument for Cognition, Consciousness and Awareness) tool, which involves using musical stimulation to enable the patient to show how conscious they are.

    The music is specially selected for the patient and a qualified music therapist performs this live to the patient, manipulating different aspects of the music depending on how the patient responds. The idea is to give the patient the best chance of showing what they can do.

    The music therapist observes the child’s behaviours and records these observations against a set of scales. MuSICCA then produces a diagnosis of the level of consciousness.

    As part of the study, researchers invited a group of participants including music therapists, family members of children affected by brain injuries, and healthcare professionals to evaluate MuSICCA.

    Participants in the study took part in question and answer sessions following a demonstration of the tool and were asked to rate how much they agreed or disagreed with two statements: On initial review, MuSICCA appears to be an assessment of consciousness and awareness; and on initial review, MuSICCA appears to be suitable for use with children and young people. Participants were also asked to comment on the strengths and weaknesses of MuSICCA.

    All participants agreed with both statements, with 85% strongly agreeing with each.

    “Children with disorders of consciousness are often almost completely dependent on others to meet their needs. Their therapists, nurses and caregivers must interpret very subtle behaviours to help them understand their needs.

    “There is often great uncertainty when determining this, which makes it so important to find a reliable way of assessing levels of consciousness in these young people. Currently, there are very few ways of doing this.

    “MuSICCA allows the music therapist to conduct a rigorous assessment of the patient’s response to various musical stimuli, giving the therapist a picture of the patient’s level of consciousness and the strengths and weaknesses of their responses. The information from MuSICCA is easy to communicate to the rest of the care and medical teams and can support families in understanding what they can do to support their child’s recovery.

    “This study strongly suggests that MuSICCA is a suitable and comprehensive assessment method, highlighting its strengths in providing guidance, involving caregivers, and supporting clinical teams.”

    Lead author Dr Jonathan Pool, Senior Research Fellow at Anglia Ruskin University’s Cambridge Institute for Music Therapy Research

    The full, open access paper can be read here: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1441178/full

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Vice Premier of the State Council of China Meets with Saudi Aramco Chairman

    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 8 (Xinhua) — Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang met with Saudi Aramco Chairman Yasser Al-Rumayyan in Beijing on Thursday.

    Ding Xuexiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, said the China-Saudi Arabia comprehensive strategic partnership is developing rapidly, with cooperation in various fields deepening.

    Noting that Saudi Aramco has long been actively involved in China’s reform, opening-up and modernization, the vice premier expressed hope that the two sides will continue to deepen cooperation in traditional fields such as energy and chemical industry, actively develop cooperation in scientific and technological innovation and green transformation, jointly maintain the stability of global industrial and supply chains and the multilateral trading system, so as to make greater contributions to China-Saudi Arabia relations and the world economy.

    Y. Al-Rumayyan, in turn, stated that Saudi Aramco is always optimistic about China’s development prospects and is ready to expand investment and trade cooperation with China in order to contribute to trade and economic cooperation between the two countries. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Breaking News: EU to Launch WTO Case Over US Tariffs

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    Xinhua | 08. 05. 2025

    Keywords: wto,us duties,eu intends,urgent,trial,european union will appeal,thursday declared,dispute resolution,consultations,us measures,duties,usa,request,organization,violate,opinion

    BRUSSELS, May 8 (Xinhua) — The European Union will ask the World Trade Organization (WTO) for consultations to resolve disputes with the United States over U.S. “mirror tariffs” and duties on cars and auto parts, the European Commission said Thursday, saying the U.S. tariffs violate fundamental WTO rules. -0-

    Source: Xinhua

    Breaking News: EU to initiate WTO case over US tariffs Breaking News: EU to initiate WTO case over US tariffs

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Military parade held in Kyrgyzstan to mark 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

    BISHKEK, May 8 (Xinhua) — A ceremonial military parade dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the Victory of the Soviet people in the Great Patriotic War was held in the central Ala-Too Square in the capital of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek, on May 8.

    The parade was observed by the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Kyrgyzstan Sadyr Japarov, members of the Cabinet of Ministers, veterans and servicemen of the armed forces, representatives of other security agencies of the country, representatives of the diplomatic and military-diplomatic corps accredited in the republic, as well as the public, youth and guests of the capital.

    S. Japarov delivered a congratulatory speech in which he noted the historical significance of the Victory, the courage and heroism of the generations that defended peace. “So that future generations never forget the invaluable contribution of our fathers and the consequences of the devastating war that took tens of millions of innocent lives, we must teach young people to value peace and tranquility, to live with an awareness of their true value,” the head of state emphasized.

    As noted by the press service of the country’s Ministry of Defense, the military parade in honor of the 80th anniversary of the Victory was the largest in the history of independent Kyrgyzstan both in terms of the number of personnel and the quantity and quality of equipment involved in the parade. In total, about 3 thousand servicemen and more than 120 units of military and special equipment, including heavy armored vehicles, artillery, air defense systems and aviation, took part in the parade. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Culture unites European citizens, survey shows

    Source: European Union 2

    Culture creates a sense of community and integration. According to a new survey, EU citizens (87%) strongly support cultural exchange and (88%) artistic freedom. They also call for fair working conditions for artists and a stronger EU role to protect heritage and respond to the impact of AI.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man convicted of Gordon Ogunmuyiwa’s manslaughter

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A man has been found guilty of the manslaughter of Gordon Ogunmuyiwa after an investigation by specialist Met detectives.

    Paul Campbell, 43 (03.04.79) of Dunheved Road West, Thornton Heath, was convicted on Thursday, 8 May following a three-week trial at Woolwich Crown Court.

    He is due to be sentenced on Tuesday, 10 June.

    Campbell had beaten Gordon, a 62-year-old former doctor from Dalston, Hackney to death on Christmas Eve, following more than a year of financial and physical abuse.

    Detective Chief Inspector Samantha Townsend, who led the Met’s investigation said: “Gordon was a gentle man with no history of violence.

    “Ill health however had seen him become increasingly vulnerable – something Campbell took advantage of. A selfish and self-serving man, Campbell’s greed coloured his actions and an innocent man was taken from his family.

    “I hope today’s verdict goes some way in providing a sense of justice to Gordon’s family.”

    The court heard that on Saturday, 24 December 2023, police were called by the London Ambulance Service at 11:00hrs to a report a man had died in a bed and breakfast in Thornton Heath.

    Gordon was found in a room registered in Campbell’s name. However, when paramedics arrived Campbell was not present.

    Detectives attempted to contact him but were unsuccessful.

    This led officers to make enquiries into Campbell, which resulted in a murder investigation being launched.

    Police interviewed fellow residents at the bed and breakfast and quickly established a pattern of behaviour that saw Gordon suffer brutal beatings by Campbell.

    A financial search uncovered that Campbell had been using Gordon’s credit cards. He also bought an iPhone from a second hand shop, using said bank cards, a week after Gordon had died.

    On Wednesday, 11 January Campbell was arrested on suspicion of murder and charged the next day.

    A post mortem was conducted and it was clear that Gordon had multiple injuries borne over time.

    However, the assault, heard by neighbours on Saturday, 23 December, was declared to have been particularly vicious and ultimately led to Gordon’s death.

    Gordon’s Sister Merion Wood said: “Gordon was much loved and his death has completely destroyed our family. We thank the police for their efforts at bringing his murderer to justice and pray no other family has to suffer as we have.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man Sentenced to Over 30 Years in Prison for Crypto-Terror Financing Scheme

    Source: United States Attorneys General 13

    A Springfield, Virginia, man was sentenced yesterday to 364 months in prison for his efforts to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization.

    According to court records and evidence presented at trial, from at least October 2019 through October 2022, Mohammed Azharuddin Chhipa, 35, collected and sent money to female ISIS members in Syria to benefit ISIS in various ways, including by financing the escape of female ISIS members from prison camps and supporting ISIS fighters. Chhipa would raise funds online on various social media accounts. He would receive electronic transfers of funds and travel hundreds of miles to collect funds by hand. He would then convert the money to cryptocurrency and send it to Turkey, where it was smuggled to ISIS members in Syria.

    “This defendant directly financed ISIS in its efforts to commit vile terrorist atrocities against innocent citizens in America and abroad,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “This severe sentence illustrates that if you fund terrorism, we will prosecute you and put you behind bars for decades.”

    “With this sentencing, this defendant will pay the price for helping finance ISIS, a brutal terrorist organization,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “This is more proof that the FBI will investigate and work with our DOJ partners to hold accountable anyone who assists ISIS or other terrorist groups. Whether you are a fighter or send money, these activities are illegal and against the national security interests of the United States.”

    “Those who fund and facilitate terror bear the same responsibility as those who carry out attacks,” said U.S. Attorney Erik S. Siebert for the Eastern District of Virginia. “Mohammed Chhipa knowingly and persistently collected and provided a considerable amount of money to fund the violence of an organization bent on forcing their extremist ideology on others. That he did so from a nation that holds individual freedom sacrosanct is unconscionable.”

    His primary co-conspirator was an ISIS member residing in Syria who was involved in raising funds for prison escapes, terrorist attacks, and ISIS fighters.

    Over the course of the conspiracy, Chhipa sent over $185,000 in cryptocurrency.

    In December 2024, a federal jury convicted Chhipa of one count of conspiracy to provide material support or resources to a designated foreign terrorist organization and four counts of providing and attempting to provide material support or resources to a designated foreign terrorist organization.

    The FBI Washington Field Office investigated the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony T. Aminoff and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda St. Cyr for the Eastern District of Virginia and Trial Attorney Andrew John Dixon and former Trial Attorney Andrea Broach of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: UPDATE – International companies to host live webcasts at Deutsche Bank’s Depositary Receipts Virtual Investor Conference on May 15, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Deutsche Bank today announced the lineup for its Depositary Receipts Virtual Investor Conference (“dbVIC”) on Thursday, May 15, 2025 featuring live webcast presentations from international companies with American Depositary Receipt (ADR) programs in the United States.

    Representatives from participating companies based in China, Hong Kong, Philippines, Denmark, Germany, South Africa, Switzerland, Sweden, and the United Kingdom will respond to questions during formal presentations. The conference is targeted to all categories of investors and analysts interested in international companies.

    There is no fee for participants to log in, attend live presentations and/or ask questions.

    Pre-registration is suggested. Please register here: www.adr.db.com/dbvic

    Conference Agenda May 15th, 2025 (US Eastern Standard Time):

    • 8:00 AM: Bavarian Nordic A/S (Nasdaq Copenhagen: BAVA, OTC: BVNRY)  
    • 8:30 AM: Viomi Technology Co., Ltd (NASDAQ: VIOT)
    • 9:00 AM: Infineon Technologies AG (Xetra: IFX, OTC: IFNNY)
    • 9:30 AM: Clicks Group Ltd (JSE: CLS, OTC: CLCGY)
    • 10:00 AM: First Pacific Company Ltd (HKEX: 142, OTC: FPAFY)
    • 10:30 AM: HUTCHMED (China) Limited (AIM: HCM, NASDAQ: HCM, and HKEX:13)
    • 11:00 AM: 51Talk Online Education Group (NYSE American: COE)
    • 11:30 AM: Yiren Digital Ltd. (NYSE: YRD)
    • 12:00 PM: ABB Ltd. (SIX: ABBN, OTC: ABBNY)
    • 12:30 PM: Belite Bio, Inc  (NASDAQ: BLTE)
    • 13:00 PM: Epiroc AB (Nasdaq Stockholm: EPIA, OTC: EPOAY)
    • 13:30 PM: International Airlines Group (LSE: IAG, MAD: IAG, OTC: ICAGY)
    • 14:00 PM: BDO Unibank, Inc (PSE: BDO, OTC: BDOUY)
    • 14:30 PM: iHuman Inc. (NYSE: IH)

    The presentations will be available for replay after the conference.

    In addition to specializing in administering cross-border equity structures such as American and Global Depositary Receipts, Deutsche Bank provides corporates, financial institutions, hedge funds and supranational agencies around the world with trustee, agency, escrow and related services. The Bank offers a broad range of services for diverse products, from complex securitizations and project finance to syndicated loans, debt exchanges and restructurings.

    For further information, please contact:
    Dylan Riddle
    Deutsche Bank AG
    Press & Media Relations
    Tel. +12122504982
    Cell. +1(904)3866481
    Email dylan.riddle@db.com

    Deutsche Bank provides commercial and investment banking, retail banking, transaction banking and asset and wealth management products and services to corporations, governments, institutional investors, small and medium-sized businesses, and private individuals. Deutsche Bank is Germany’s leading bank, with a strong position in Europe and a significant presence in the Americas and Asia Pacific.

    Deutsche Bank is sponsoring the Deutsche Bank Depositary Receipt Investor Conference solely for informational purposes. Deutsche Bank does not prepare, review, approve or edit any presentations, statements, documents or other information or materials, whether in written, electronic or verbal form, provided by any company participating in such conference, and disclaims any responsibility for the accuracy or adequacy of any such information or materials. Deutsche Bank is not promoting, endorsing or recommending any company participating in the conference.

    The Depositary Receipts have been registered pursuant to the US Securities Act of 1933 (the “Act”) on Form F-6. The investment or investment service which is the subject of this notice is not available to retail clients as defined by the UK Financial Conduct Authority. This notice has been approved and/or communicated by Deutsche Bank AG New York. The services described in this notice are provided by Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas (Deutsche Bank) or by its subsidiaries and/or affiliates in accordance with appropriate local registration and regulation. Deutsche Bank is providing the attached notice strictly for information purposes and makes no claims or statement, nor does it warrant as to or guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the details contained herein and does not undertake an obligation to update or amend this information. Deutsche Bank, its subsidiaries and/or affiliates disclaims any and all liability to fullest extent permitted by law, whether arising in tort, contract or otherwise, which any of them might otherwise have in respect of the above information. This announcement appears as a matter of record only. Neither this announcement nor the information contained herein constitutes an offer or solicitation by Deutsche Bank or any other issuer or entity for the purchase or sale of any securities in the United States, nor does it constitute an offer or solicitation to any person in any other jurisdiction. No part of this notice may be copied or reproduced in any way without the prior written consent of Deutsche Bank. Past results are not an indication of future performance. Copyright© May 2025 Deutsche Bank AG. All rights reserved.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Baltic Horizon Fund consolidated unaudited results for Q1 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Management Board of Northern Horizon Capital AS has approved the unaudited financial results of Baltic Horizon Fund (the Fund) for the three months of 2025.

    Our strategic ambitions
    Over the past years, our focus has been on reshaping our strategy to foster sustainable value in a very demanding environment, concentrating efforts on avenues that promise reliable and consistent growth for our investors.

    We firmly believe that the execution of the ‘Modern City Life’ strategy, introduced to investors in 2024, is paramount to their best interests. This strategy emphasizes developing centrally located, multi-functional properties with adaptable spaces designed to inspire, uplift, and enhance the lives of modern citizens and communities. Our value proposition is built on quality, flexibility, sustainability, and exceptional service, supported by strategic locations that cater to the evolving needs of our tenants, visitors and neighbours.

    The Fund management team has implemented and specified its key performance indicators (KPIs) as a means to effectively measure and track performance because we acknowledge that clear and measurable benchmarks are essential for evaluating progress towards the Fund’s objectives. By defining specific KPIs, the team aims to enhance transparency, accountability, and facilitate decision-making processes.

    In 2025 the Fund will focus on four KPIs:

    • Occupancy of not less than 90% by the year end. We aim to decrease the current vacancies across the portfolio. At the end of Q1 occupancy rate (based on handover date) was 82.3%
    • Attaining a net operating income (NOI) of EUR 130 per square meter by 2027. Due to possible divestments, from 2025 the management has a new target of NOI/sq.m. rather than total NOI p.a.
    • Loan to value ratio not exceeding 50%. The Fund recently introduced its divestment strategy with the aim to reduce financing costs and decrease LTV levels. In March 2025 the Fund disposed the Meraki business centre in Vilnius. Proceeds of the disposal were used to repay the outstanding loan and early repay the bonds in the amount of EUR 3 million.
    • Optimizing the property portfolio by considering the disposal of non-strategic assets if deemed strategically beneficial.

    Leasing performance
    During the 3 months of 2025, the Fund signed new leases for approx. 2,000 sq. m. Moreover, leases of approx. 5,500 sq. m. were prolonged. 7 new tenants have been attracted to our buildings, while 8 existing tenants have decided to continue their cooperation with us.

    As of the end of March 2025, the portfolio occupancy rate based on handover date stood at 82.3%, while occupancy calculated according to lease signing date reached 86.9%, marking significant progress toward the target of 90%.

    Notably, less than 14% of leases are set to expire during the next 9 months, while the vast majority expire in 2026 and later. We aim to spread our lease terms evenly so that no more than 20% of our leases expire each year.

    Recent successful leasing activity is reflected in the increase in the weighted average unexpired lease term until the first break option, which was 3.6 years as of 31 March 2025 (compared to 3.4 and 2.9 years as of 31 December 2024 and 2023).

    Outlook
    In 2025 the Fund will focus on flexible and sustainable solutions to meet tenant demands and market conditions. Our key goals are increasing the occupancy of the portfolio and decreasing the LTV by way of repaying part of the bonds.

    In 2025, we will continue advancing our social and environmental commitments. All our assets have been BREEAM-certified, and by the end of Q1 2025, we achieved 95% green leases across our portfolio, with a target to further increase this share in the coming year.

    In a challenging leasing market, the Baltic Horizon Fund is focusing on minimizing administration expenses to offset reduced income. By regularly reviewing overhead costs, investing in technology upgrades, and negotiating fees, the fund aims to enhance operational efficiency and improve long-term investment returns. These strategies are essential for maintaining financial health and maximizing results despite limited income opportunities.

    Simultaneously, to reinforce its financial position, the Fund is committed to improving its debt service ratio and reducing loan-to-value levels. By focusing on increasing occupancy rates and optimizing property concepts, we aim to enhance asset performance and maximize net operating income. Adaptive leasing strategies, property repositioning, and targeted investments in high-demand segments will remain key priorities. These initiatives are designed to create long-term value for investors while ensuring the Fund remains resilient in a dynamic market environment.

    Baltic Horizon achieves a 100% BREEAM certified portfolio
    Our portfolio is 100% BREEAM certified.

    GRESB benchmarking
    In 2024 the Fund received a 3-star GRESB rating. During 2024, the Fund has implemented a GRESB improvement plan and aims to receive 4-stars again in the year 2025.

    Net result and net rental income
    The Group earned consolidated net rental income of EUR 3.0 million in Q1 2025 (Q1 2024: 2.8 million). The results for Q1 2025 include two months of net rental income of the Meraki office property (EUR 0.2 million), which was sold on 13 March 2025.

    The portfolio net rental income in Q1 2025 was 6.3% higher than in Q1 2024, mainly due to higher occupancy in Galerija Centrs since the complex was undergoing a transition period of certain tenants in the buildings in Q1 2024, as well as higher occupancy in Meraki as the international office furniture company NARBUTAS fully moved in to the premises at the end of 2024.

    In Q1 2025, the Group recorded a net loss of EUR 968 thousand compared with a net loss of EUR 624 thousand for Q1 2024. The result was mainly driven by the losses on disposal of investment properties. Earnings per unit for Q1 2025 were negative at EUR 0.01 (Q1 2024: negative at EUR 0.01).

    Investment properties
    At the end of Q1 2025, the Baltic Horizon Fund portfolio consisted of 11 cash flow generating investment properties in the Baltic capitals. The fair value of the Fund’s portfolio was EUR 226.2 million at the end of March 2025 (31 December 2024: EUR 241.2 million) and incorporated a total net leasable area of 110.7 thousand sq. m. During Q1 2025 the Group invested approximately EUR 1.4 million in tenant fit-outs.

    Gross Asset Value (GAV)
    As of 31 March 2025, the Fund’s GAV was EUR 243.2 million (31 December 2024: EUR 256.0 million). The decrease compared to the prior year was mainly related to the disposal of the Meraki office building, which had contributed approx. EUR 16.4 million to the GAV.

    Net Asset Value (NAV)
    As of 31 March 2025, the Fund’s NAV was EUR 97.2 million (31 December 2024: EUR 98.1 million). The NAV decrease was mainly due to losses on disposal of Meraki. As of 31 March 2025, IFRS NAV per unit amounted to EUR 0.6769 (31 December 2024: EUR 0.6833), while EPRA net tangible assets and EPRA net reinstatement value were EUR 0.7209 per unit (31 December 2024: EUR 0.7267). EPRA net disposal value was EUR 0.6736 per unit (31 December 2024: EUR 0.6797).

    Interest-bearing loans and bonds
    As of 31 March 2025, interest-bearing loans and bonds (excluding lease liabilities) were EUR 138.9 million (31 December 2024: EUR 149.0 million).
    As of 31 March 2025, the Fund’s consolidated cash and cash equivalents amounted to EUR 12.8 million (31 December 2024: EUR 10.1 million).

    Cash flow
    Cash inflow from core operating activities in Q1 2025 amounted to EUR 1.3 million (Q1 2024: cash inflow of EUR 1.9 million). Cash inflow from investing activities was EUR 14.3 million (Q1 2024: cash outflow of EUR 1.3 million) mainly due to the sale of Meraki in March 2025 for EUR 16 million. Cash outflow from financing activities was EUR 12.8 million (Q1 2024: cash inflow of EUR 5.7 million). In Q1 2025, the Fund repaid the BH Novus UAB (previously BH Meraki UAB) loan amounting to EUR 10.3 million and paid interest on bank loans and bonds.

    Key earnings figures

    EUR ‘000 2025 Q1 2024 Q1 Change (%)
    Net rental income 2,970 2,794 6.3%
    Administrative expenses (548) (585) (6.3%)
    Other operating income (expenses) 18 10 80.0%
    Losses on disposal of investment properties (905) (367) 146.6%
    Valuation losses on investment properties (5) (4) 25.0%
    Operating (loss) profit 1,530 1,848 (17.2%)
    Net financial expenses (2,673) (2,497) 7.0%
    (Loss) profit before tax (1,143) (649) 76.1%
    Income tax 175 25 600.0%
    Net (loss) profit for the period (968) (624) 55.1%
           
    Weighted average number of units outstanding (units) 143,562,514 119,635,429 20.0%
    Earnings per unit (EUR) (0.01) (0.01) –

    Key financial position figures

    EUR ‘000 31.03.2025 31.12.2024 Change (%)
    Investment properties in use 226,220 241,158 (6.2%)
    Gross asset value (GAV) 243,208 256,048 (5.0%)
           
    Interest-bearing loans and bonds 138,914 148,989 (6.8%)
    Total liabilities 146,035 157,953 (7.5%)
           
    IFRS Net asset value (IFRS NAV) 97,173 98,095 (0.9%)
    EPRA Net Reinstatement Value (EPRA NRV) 103,496 104,333 (0.8%)
           
    Number of units outstanding (units) 143,562,514 143,562,514 –
    IFRS Net asset value (IFRS NAV) per unit (EUR) 0.6769 0.6833 (0.9%)
    EPRA Net Reinstatement Value (EPRA NRV) per unit (EUR) 0.7209 0.7267 (0.8%)
           
    Loan-to-Value ratio (%) 61.4% 61.8% (0.4%)
    Average effective interest rate (%) 6.5% 6.7% (0.2%)

    During Q1 2025, the average actual occupancy of the portfolio was 82.7% (Q4 2024: 81.0%). The occupancy rate increased to 82.3% as of 31 March 2025 (31 December 2024: 82.1%).

    Overview of the Fund’s investment properties as of 31 March 2025

    Property name Sector Fair value1 NLA Direct property yield Net initial yield Occupancy rate
    (EUR ‘000) (sq. m)  20252 20253
    Vilnius, Lithuania            
    Europa SC Retail 36,106 17,127 2.7% 3.1% 81.6%
    North Star Office 19,550 10,740 5.6% 6.2% 90.3%
    Total Vilnius   55,656 27,867 3.9% 4.7% 85.0%
    Riga, Latvia            
    Upmalas Biroji BC Office 19,241 11,204 3.4% 4.3% 64.1%
    Vainodes I Office 15,936 8,128 6.2% 8.5% 100.0%
    LNK Centre Office 11,641 7,452 (2.4%) (3.7%) 0.0%
    Sky SC Retail 4,910 3,260 8.7% 9.3% 100.0%
    Galerija Centrs Retail 60,863 19,441 3.4% 4.5% 84.7%
    Total Riga   112,591 49,485 3.3% 4.4% 70.8%
    Tallinn, Estonia            
    Postimaja & CC Plaza complex Retail 21,876 9,232 3.1% 5.2% 100.0%
    Postimaja & CC Plaza complex Leisure 13,195 7,877 6.4% 5.8% 100.0%
    Lincona Office 13,110 10,767 6.7% 8.3% 92.6%
    Pirita SC Retail 9,792 5,425 6.6% 8.5% 97.1%
    Total Tallinn   57,973 33,301 4.9% 6.6% 97.1%
    Total portfolio   226,220 110,653 3.9% 5.0% 82.3%
    1. Based on the latest valuation as of 31 December 2024, recognised right-of-use assets and subsequent capital expenditure.  
    2. Direct property yield (DPY) is calculated by dividing annualized NOI by the acquisition value and subsequent capital expenditure of the property.
    3. The net initial yield (NIY) is calculated by dividing annualized NOI by the market value of the property.

    Consolidated statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income

    EUR ‘000    
    01.01.2025
    – 31.03.2025    		 01.01.2024
    – 31.03.2024
    Rental income 3,794 3,846
    Service charge income 1,332 1,048
    Cost of rental activities (2,156) (2,100)
    Net rental income 2,970 2,794
         
    Administrative expenses (548) (585)
    Other operating income 18 10
    Losses on disposal of investment properties (905) (367)
     Valuation losses on investment properties (5) (4)
    Operating profit (loss) 1,530 1,848
         
    Financial income 42 4
    Financial expenses (2,715) (2,501)
    Net financial expenses (2,673) (2,497)
         
    Profit (loss) before tax (1,143) (649)
    Income tax charge 175 25
    Profit (loss) for the period (968) (624)
       
    Other comprehensive income that is or may be reclassified to profit or loss in subsequent periods
    Net gain (loss) on cash flow hedges 51 (219)
    Income tax relating to net gain (loss) on cash flow hedges (5) 27
    Other comprehensive income (expense), net of tax, that is or may be reclassified to profit or loss in subsequent periods 46 (192)
         
    Total comprehensive income (expense) for the period, net of tax (922) (816)
         
    Basic and diluted earnings per unit (EUR) (0.01) (0.01)
           

    Consolidated statement of financial position

    EUR ‘000   31.03.2025 31.12.2024
    Non-current assets      
    Investment properties   226,220 241,158
    Intangible assets   2  4 
    Property, plant and equipment   2 5
    Derivative financial instruments              – 1                      
    Other non-current assets   845 1,225
    Total non-current assets   227,069 242,393
           
    Current assets      
    Trade and other receivables   2,848 2,800
    Prepayments   444 802
    Cash and cash equivalents   12,847 10,053
    Total current assets   16,139 13,655
    Total assets   243,208 256,048
           
    Equity      
    Paid in capital   151,495 151,495
    Cash flow hedge reserve   (374) (420)
    Retained earnings   (53,948) (52,980)
    Total equity   97,173 98,095
           
    Non-current liabilities      
    Interest-bearing loans and borrowings   83,896 98,491
    Deferred tax liabilities   1,742 1,898
    Other non-current liabilities   1,143 1,446
    Total non-current liabilities   86,781 101,835
           
    Current liabilities      
    Interest-bearing loans and borrowings   55,259 50,736
    Trade and other payables   3,331 4,473
    Income tax payable   – 14
    Derivative financial instruments   303 317
    Other current liabilities   361 578
    Total current liabilities   59,254 56,118
    Total liabilities   146,035 157,953
    Total equity and liabilities   243,208 256,048

    For additional information, please contact:

    Tarmo Karotam
    Baltic Horizon Fund manager
    E-mail tarmo.karotam@nh-cap.com
    www.baltichorizon.com

    The Fund is a registered contractual public closed-end real estate fund that is managed by Alternative Investment Fund Manager license holder Northern Horizon Capital AS. 

    Distribution: GlobeNewswire, Nasdaq Tallinn, Nasdaq Stockholm, www.baltichorizon.com

    To receive Nasdaq announcements and news from Baltic Horizon Fund about its projects, plans and more, register on www.baltichorizon.com. You can also follow Baltic Horizon Fund on www.baltichorizon.com and on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and YouTube.

    This announcement contains information that the Management Company is obliged to disclose pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation. The information was submitted for publication, through the agency of the above distributors, at 17:45 EET on 08 May 2025.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi, Putin meet press

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

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

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