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Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI Security: IAEA-Supported Laboratory Opens to Fight Microplastics in Galapagos Islands

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    The Galapagos Islands where the Oceanography and Microplastics Laboratory, supported by the IAEA, was established to monitor and analyse microplastic pollution.

    A new laboratory supported by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) was officially inaugurated this month in the Galapagos Islands to address the growing threat of marine microplastic pollution.

    The Oceanography and Microplastics Laboratory was established by the government in Ecuador, with support from the IAEA, to monitor and analyse microplastic pollution in the Galapagos Islands. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Galapagos Islands are renowned for their extraordinary biodiversity and unique evolutionary adaptations, shaped by their remote location some 1000 kilometres west of mainland Ecuador.

    While a robust monitoring and cleanup programme is in place to tackle the estimated six tonnes of plastic waste that wash ashore on the islands each year, microplastics — plastic particles smaller than five millimetres — pose a more complex challenge for the Galapagos National Park, a protected area encompassing 97% of the islands.

    Nuclear-derived techniques can help detect and analyse microplastic particles too small for traditional monitoring. The laboratory is now analysing water samples and will be able to analyse sediment, and biota samples from the islands at a microscopic scale to identify the types of polymers and improve the understanding of how they disperse in the marine environment where they can endanger marine life.

    In a video address at the opening ceremony for the laboratory on 17 July, IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said the laboratory — situated on the Santa Cruz Island — will be an active partner in environmental monitoring and reporting of microplastic pollution for Ecuador, including the Galapagos Islands.

    “The laboratory offers new opportunities to conduct studies on the environmental impact on the vulnerable and relevant biodiversity of the Islands, helping authorities to take and implement more precise control measures aimed at the protection and conservation of the Galapagos National Park,” he added.

    The new laboratory marks a significant milestone in the IAEA’s NUTEC Plastics initiative, which has supported countries since its launch in 2020 in researching microplastics and applying nuclear techniques to enhance recycling processes. The support to the Galapagos Islands follows the IAEA’s work in Antarctica — another valuable ecosystem — with the launch of microplastics research there in 2024.

    The data generated in the new laboratory will enable local and national authorities to more accurately assess plastic pollution levels and design targeted strategies to mitigate their impact. The information will also feed into the IAEA’s coordinated efforts under the IAEA Marine Environment Laboratories in Monaco to build a global network of laboratories with analytical capacities to monitor and mitigate marine microplastic pollution.

    The IAEA, through its technical cooperation programme, has also strengthened monitoring and analytical capacities in institutions such as the Galapagos National Park and the Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral (ESPOL) in Guayaquil, to address the growing threat of marine pollution from microplastics in the Galapagos Islands. The IAEA has allocated nearly €1 million to provide the new laboratory with equipment and training for monitoring marine stressors such as ocean acidification, eutrophication, and microplastic pollution — all of which threaten the region’s unique biodiversity and ecosystems.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Illicit firearms: Operation Trigger IX nets 14,260 arrests across Latin America

    Source: Interpol (news and events)

    18 April 2023

    Drugs worth USD 5.7 billion also seized in INTERPOL-led operation targeting key trafficking routes and organized crime groups

    LYON, France – In the biggest firearms operation ever coordinated by INTERPOL, authorities in Central and South America have made 14,260 arrests and seized some 8,263 illicit firearms, as well as 305,000 rounds of ammunition.

    With illicit firearms used by criminals to commit armed robberies and murder, they are also closely associated with the proliferation of a wide range of other crimes using the same trafficking routes.

    The links between illicit firearms and drug manufacturing and trafficking were thrown into sharp relief, with the seizure of 203 tonnes of cocaine and other drugs together worth some USD 5.7 billion, and 372 tonnes of drug precursors during Operation Trigger IX (12 March – 2 April).

    Law enforcement across INTERPOL’s 195 member countries have reported record drug seizures in the past year and, in many cases, a spike in drug-related violence, fueled by the traffic of illegal firearms.

    The operation, which saw an unprecedented level of cooperation across 15 countries, also identified a range of other crimes such as corruption, fraud, human trafficking, environmental crime and terrorist activities.

    Colombian authorities arrested the subject of an INTERPOL Red Notice

    Arrests in Honduras – Operation Trigger IX

    Firearms are closely associated with the proliferation of a wide range of other crimes.

    Border checks – Operation Trigger IX

    Operational hub – Operation Trigger IX

    Marine patrols – Operation Trigger IX

    Operation Trigger IX led to the disruption of 20 organized criminal groups

    Drug seizure – El Salvador

    A woman attempting to smuggle pistols and chargers between Paraguay and Brazil.

    Seizure by Chile – Operation Trigger IX

    Vehicle checks – Operation Trigger IX

    Uruguay saw its largest-ever seizure of ammunition.

    Operational highlights

    INTERPOL gathered firearms experts from participating countries at an operational hub in Foz do Iguaçu in the tri-border area of Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay, to support frontline actions and ensure the swift exchange and cross-checking of intelligence.

    On the ground, coordinated actions led to the disruption of 20 organized criminal groups, including the arrest of members of Primeiro Comando da Capital, Mara Salvatrucha and the Balkans Cartel, all involved in firearms trafficking.

    In Uruguay, 100,000 pieces of ammunition trafficked internationally by two European nationals were seized by authorities, marking the country’s largest-ever such seizure.

    Authorities in Brazil and Paraguay shut down several firearms dealerships following the identification of irregular transfers and unlicensed sales.

    Other operational results include:

    • 11 victims were rescued in Paraguay, when authorities dismantled a human trafficking ring.
    • In cooperation with Venezuela, police in Colombia arrested a Venezuelan national subject to an INTERPOL Red Notice for terrorism and arms trafficking.
    • A 32 year old woman was arrested at the land border between Paraguay and Brazil with eight pistols and 16 chargers taped to her body.

    Looking ahead, some 30 investigations were opened as a result of actions on the ground, and authorities identified 15 new modus operandi for the illicit manufacturing, trafficking and concealment of firearms, with INTERPOL’s Purple Notice leveraged to help alert member countries.

    Officers perform real-time checks against INTERPOL’s databases during Operation Trigger IX.

    Operational hub – Brazil

    Border checks between Argentina and Brazil

    Seizure by Honduras – Operation Trigger IX

    Police checks by Argentina – Operation Trigger IX

    Authorities shut down several firearms dealerships in Brazil and Paraguay

    Authorities had immediate access to the INTERPOL Ballistic Information Network

    Arrest in Paraguay – Operation Trigger IX

    El Salvador firearms dealership checks – El Salvador

    INTERPOL’s global reach

    “The fact that an operation targeting illicit firearms resulted in such massive drugs seizures is further proof, if needed, that these crimes are intertwined,” said INTERPOL Secretary General Jürgen Stock.

    “The results, coming just weeks after our Americas Regional Conference was highlighting the need for greater information sharing on these linked organized crime activities, also demonstrate the unique value of INTERPOL in supporting efforts in the field.  

    “The organized crime networks behind all of these illicit activities have only one priority, which is profit. We, as law enforcement, must be equally determined to dismantle them across every region and globally,” concluded Secretary General Stock.

    Valdecy Urquiza, INTERPOL’s Vice-President for the Americas, highlighted the value of joint initiatives such as Trigger IX in prioritizing national and regional efforts against illicit flows. “Intelligence-led investigations and operations enable police to cooperate internationally and remove illicit firearms from circulation to protect the public,” said Mr Urquiza.

    INTERPOL global tools used by investigators during the operation include the Illicit Arms Records and Tracing Management System (iARMS), the only global database of illicit firearms, including stolen, lost and trafficked/smuggled firearms.

    Authorities also had immediate access to the INTERPOL Ballistic Information Network (IBIN), enabling law enforcement officials to compare images of ballistic fingerprints from fired casings and projectiles to establish links between crimes worldwide.

    Tracing the history and ownership of recovered firearms provides crucial investigative leads. Every firearm is unique and can be identified by its serial number, make, model and calibre as well as by its ballistic ‘fingerprint’. Comparing ballistics evidence of recovered cartridge casings and ammunition is therefore crucial to investigations.

    During the operation, INTERPOL’s Firearms Programme was supported by INTERPOL’s Regional Bureaus in Argentina and El Salvador, its Drugs and Fugitives units, and its Command and Coordination Centre.

    More than 100 national law enforcement agencies were involved in the operation, including the collaboration of US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), which supported participating countries.

    Participating countries: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay.

    Operation Trigger IX was funded by the European Union and carried out under the framework of Project Disrupt.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Greater strategic alignment key to facing Europe’s crime threats

    Source: Interpol (news and events)

    Police leaders throughout the region look to strengthen cooperation against terrorism, illicit trafficking and other crimes

    OHRID, North Macedonia – Three days of discussions between senior police officers from 53 countries in Europe and the wider INTERPOL membership have led to a call for greater coordination to effectively combat the region’s most pressing security threats.

    INTERPOL’s 50th European Regional Conference saw delegates adopt recommendations to more closely align international efforts in a range of strategic areas, including counterterrorism, illicit trafficking and the sharing of police data.

    The meeting took place as Europe faces a historic peak in the production of illegal narcotics, which has strengthened organized crime groups and led to an accompanying rise in violent crime across the region.

    “The globalized nature of crime means that our respective borders are only as strong as our weakest links,” said Stephen Kavanagh, INTERPOL Executive Director of Police Services.

    “The data contributed to INTERPOL is a contribution not just to national or regional security, but to global security,” Mr Kavanagh added.

    No alternative

    A panel featuring leaders from European Union law enforcement bodies Europol and Frontex focused on the need for greater alignment between INTERPOL and regional policing bodies, to build a global model for a police data-sharing architecture and ensure Global Policing Goals are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

    “The most important part of international police cooperation is information exchange,” said Peter De Buysscher, INTERPOL Vice President for Europe, who chaired the conference. “We need a global data-sharing framework. There is no alternative.”

    The volume of data in policing has increased dramatically in recent years, opening up new investigative opportunities but also posing data management challenges. At the international level, there is a crucial need to minimize duplication and increase alignment so that investigators or frontline officers have access to the right information when they need it.

    Joint initiatives such as FIELDS, which brings together capabilities from INTERPOL and Frontex into a unified system that helps border officials spot fraudulent travel and identity documents, was highlighted as a concrete example of successful alignment.

    What drug traffickers fear

    European police leaders also discussed the rapidly evolving state of play with regards to drug trafficking and the organized crime groups behind the illicit trade.

    The adaptability of networks was identified as a key challenge to enforcement, with groups often working across national and regional lines to secure ever-greater profits. To effectively combat such networks, police must be just as adaptive and even more collaborative.

    Recent successes in INTERPOL initiatives such as the I-CAN project targeting the ‘Ndrangheta mafia group, closely involved in bringing cocaine from Latin America into Europe, were highlighted as examples of innovative international police cooperation.

    Launched in 2020, I-CAN has already produced results that have “exceeded expectations”, according to  one conference speaker, with more than 40 high-profile arrests and tens of thousands of pieces of intelligence exchanged.

    “This is what drug traffickers fear,” said one closing speaker. “All of us in the same room, working together, exchanging information and breaking down walls.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Europe: Drug trafficking, organized crime increasing by “an order of magnitude”

    Source: Interpol (news and events)

    8 May 2023

    At INTERPOL’s 50th European Regional Conference, delegates have gathered to discuss common crime threats from drug trafficking to cybercrime.

    OHRID, North Macedonia – Strengthening international police cooperation to counter the rapidly escalating threat posed by organized crime networks was the key focus of INTERPOL’s 50th European Regional Conference.

    The three-day (8-10 May) conference brings together more than 140 participants from 53 countries in Europe and beyond to discuss the most pressing crime issues facing the region.

    The conference takes place in Ohrid, North Macedonia, which itself marks 30 years as an INTERPOL member country this year.

    “These past 30 years, through our membership in the world’s largest police organization, have witnessed our commitment and willingness to be engaged in global police cooperation,” said Oliver Spasovski, Minister of Interior of the Republic of North Macedonia, in remarks during the conference’s opening ceremony.

    “With the establishment of the global INTERPOL I-24/7 communication system, our country was among the first to connect with this global police family, to exchange information between members and the General Secretariat, as well as directly access global criminal databases,” the Minister added.

    Unprecedented scale

    Fueled by historic levels of drug trafficking, organized crime groups are increasingly posing a direct threat to state authority in many countries, and there is evidence that levels of violence related to these criminal networks is also increasing.

    “Organized crime is a top concern,” said INTERPOL President Ahmed Naser al-Raisi in the conference’s opening ceremony. “These transnational crimes not only threaten the safety and security of the region, but also have a spillover effect on the rest of the world.”

    Last month, INTERPOL announced its largest ever firearms trafficking operations, which saw more than 14,000 suspects arrested across Central and South America, and an unprecedented USD 5.7 billion in illegal narcotics seized.

    “Over the last five years, [drug] trafficking and consumption have increased by an order of magnitude, with Europe one of the main transit and destination markets,” said INTERPOL Secretary General Jürgen Stock.

    “We continue to see record seizures at European borders and ports, and a corresponding rise in violent crime, corruption and money laundering of unprecedented scale,” added Secretary General Stock.

    The global scale of many organized crime networks, often spanning multiple continents, has underlined that international cooperation through INTERPOL is often the only means for police in Europe and other regions to bring fugitives to justice or gather crucial intelligence.

    European crime landscape

    Beyond drug trafficking, the results of INTERPOL’s 2022 Global Crime Trend report, which surveyed police across the Organization’s 195-country membership, show that money laundering and cyber or cyber-enabled crimes also top European law enforcement’s list of concerns.

    Money laundering ranked second among the crime trends most frequently indicated by member countries in the region as posing a ‘high’ or ‘very high’ threat, with financial fraud also ranking very high.

    The report notes that the use of online tools by criminals to perpetrate financial fraud schemes has also rapidly expanded in recent years, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Especially concerning, 76 per cent of police respondents from Europe expect online child sexual exploitation and abuse to increase or increase significantly in the next three to five years.

    The report notes that the demand for livestreaming abuse has steadily increased in recent years, likely intensifying during the pandemic. While live distance child abuse most often take place in Southeast Asia, cases in the European Union have also recently been detected.

    Keeping Europe safe

    Founded in the heart of Europe – in Vienna – during the region’s interwar period 100 years ago, INTERPOL’s history is closely intertwined with that of Europe.

    Established in a 1920s context of geopolitical upheaval and concerns of rising international crime, the Organization’s founding representatives agreed that only through collaboration could police combat transnational crime threats – a common goal shared throughout periods of political or economic tension.

    Later, in one of the Organization’s darkest chapters, the Nazis assumed control of the International Criminal Police Commission – as INTERPOL was then called – after deposing its President. In 1946, Belgium spearheaded INTERPOL’s rebuilding in the new postwar era.

    Today, European member countries remain global leaders in their use of and contribution to INTERPOL capabilities – and this activity is quickly growing. With regards to INTERPOL databases, European member countries contribute more records, undertake more searches and – crucially – receive more hits than any other region.

    New historical peaks for records, searches and hits in INTERPOL databases from European member countries were reached in 2022. In the past year alone, searches of INTERPOL databases by European law enforcement have risen by nearly a third.

    The figures underscore the fundamental place INTERPOL capabilities occupy in European countries’ approaches to keeping their communities safe.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: IAEA-Supported Laboratory Opens to Fight Microplastics in Galapagos Islands

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)

    A new laboratory supported by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) was officially inaugurated this month in the Galapagos Islands to address the growing threat of marine microplastic pollution.

    The Oceanography and Microplastics Laboratory was established by the government in Ecuador, with support from the IAEA, to monitor and analyse microplastic pollution in the Galapagos Islands. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Galapagos Islands are renowned for their extraordinary biodiversity and unique evolutionary adaptations, shaped by their remote location some 1000 kilometres west of mainland Ecuador.

    While a robust monitoring and cleanup programme is in place to tackle the estimated six tonnes of plastic waste that wash ashore on the islands each year, microplastics — plastic particles smaller than five millimetres — pose a more complex challenge for the Galapagos National Park, a protected area encompassing 97% of the islands.

    Nuclear-derived techniques can help detect and analyse microplastic particles too small for traditional monitoring. The laboratory is now analysing water samples and will be able to analyse sediment, and biota samples from the islands at a microscopic scale to identify the types of polymers and improve the understanding of how they disperse in the marine environment where they can endanger marine life.

    In a video address at the opening ceremony for the laboratory on 17 July, IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said the laboratory — situated on the Santa Cruz Island — will be an active partner in environmental monitoring and reporting of microplastic pollution for Ecuador, including the Galapagos Islands.

    “The laboratory offers new opportunities to conduct studies on the environmental impact on the vulnerable and relevant biodiversity of the Islands, helping authorities to take and implement more precise control measures aimed at the protection and conservation of the Galapagos National Park,” he added.

    The new laboratory marks a significant milestone in the IAEA’s NUTEC Plastics initiative, which has supported countries since its launch in 2020 in researching microplastics and applying nuclear techniques to enhance recycling processes. The support to the Galapagos Islands follows the IAEA’s work in Antarctica — another valuable ecosystem — with the launch of microplastics research there in 2024.

    The data generated in the new laboratory will enable local and national authorities to more accurately assess plastic pollution levels and design targeted strategies to mitigate their impact. The information will also feed into the IAEA’s coordinated efforts under the IAEA Marine Environment Laboratories in Monaco to build a global network of laboratories with analytical capacities to monitor and mitigate marine microplastic pollution.

    The IAEA, through its technical cooperation programme, has also strengthened monitoring and analytical capacities in institutions such as the Galapagos National Park and the Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral (ESPOL) in Guayaquil, to address the growing threat of marine pollution from microplastics in the Galapagos Islands. The IAEA has allocated nearly €1 million to provide the new laboratory with equipment and training for monitoring marine stressors such as ocean acidification, eutrophication, and microplastic pollution — all of which threaten the region’s unique biodiversity and ecosystems.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: IAEA-Supported Laboratory Opens to Fight Microplastics in Galapagos Islands

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –

    The Galapagos Islands where the Oceanography and Microplastics Laboratory, supported by the IAEA, was established to monitor and analyse microplastic pollution.

    A new laboratory supported by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) was officially inaugurated this month in the Galapagos Islands to address the growing threat of marine microplastic pollution.

    The Oceanography and Microplastics Laboratory was established by the government in Ecuador, with support from the IAEA, to monitor and analyse microplastic pollution in the Galapagos Islands. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Galapagos Islands are renowned for their extraordinary biodiversity and unique evolutionary adaptations, shaped by their remote location some 1000 kilometres west of mainland Ecuador.

    While a robust monitoring and cleanup programme is in place to tackle the estimated six tonnes of plastic waste that wash ashore on the islands each year, microplastics — plastic particles smaller than five millimetres — pose a more complex challenge for the Galapagos National Park, a protected area encompassing 97% of the islands.

    Nuclear-derived techniques can help detect and analyse microplastic particles too small for traditional monitoring. The laboratory is now analysing water samples and will be able to analyse sediment, and biota samples from the islands at a microscopic scale to identify the types of polymers and improve the understanding of how they disperse in the marine environment where they can endanger marine life.

    In a video address at the opening ceremony for the laboratory on 17 July, IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said the laboratory — situated on the Santa Cruz Island — will be an active partner in environmental monitoring and reporting of microplastic pollution for Ecuador, including the Galapagos Islands.

    “The laboratory offers new opportunities to conduct studies on the environmental impact on the vulnerable and relevant biodiversity of the Islands, helping authorities to take and implement more precise control measures aimed at the protection and conservation of the Galapagos National Park,” he added.

    The new laboratory marks a significant milestone in the IAEA’s NUTEC Plastics initiative, which has supported countries since its launch in 2020 in researching microplastics and applying nuclear techniques to enhance recycling processes. The support to the Galapagos Islands follows the IAEA’s work in Antarctica — another valuable ecosystem — with the launch of microplastics research there in 2024.

    The data generated in the new laboratory will enable local and national authorities to more accurately assess plastic pollution levels and design targeted strategies to mitigate their impact. The information will also feed into the IAEA’s coordinated efforts under the IAEA Marine Environment Laboratories in Monaco to build a global network of laboratories with analytical capacities to monitor and mitigate marine microplastic pollution.

    The IAEA, through its technical cooperation programme, has also strengthened monitoring and analytical capacities in institutions such as the Galapagos National Park and the Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral (ESPOL) in Guayaquil, to address the growing threat of marine pollution from microplastics in the Galapagos Islands. The IAEA has allocated nearly €1 million to provide the new laboratory with equipment and training for monitoring marine stressors such as ocean acidification, eutrophication, and microplastic pollution — all of which threaten the region’s unique biodiversity and ecosystems.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: European gloom over the Trump deal is misplaced. It’s probably the best the EU could have achieved

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Maha Rafi Atal, Adam Smith Senior Lecturer in Political Economy, School of Social and Political Sciences, University of Glasgow

    The trade deal between the US and the European Union, squeezed in days before the re-introduction of Donald Trump’s “liberation day” tariffs, is reflective of the new politics of global trade. Faced with the threat of 30% baseline tariffs from Washington, as well as additional levies on specific sectors, the EU has secured a partial reprieve of a flat 15% tariff on all goods.

    Was this the best the bloc could have achieved? In the time available, it may well have been. The 15% rate is higher than the UK secured earlier this year, but it’s significantly below the level applied to China and Mexico, and on par with Japan.

    The EU has also managed a “zero-for-zero” tariffs deal on some hi-tech goods, notably semiconductors vital for products like phones and laptops. This is something the UK did not push for or secure in its own framework agreed with the US president.



    Read more:
    Donald Trump has reduced tariffs on British metals and cars, but how important is this trade deal? Experts react

    What’s more, EU leaders have argued that agreeing to the deal has security benefits in protecting dwindling US support for European defence. The urgency of Europe’s security concerns in Ukraine made these talks different from trade negotiations in the first Trump administration, when Europe could afford to be more aggressive.

    The biggest winners in this deal are Europe’s carmakers. The US has collapsed various sector-specific duties on goods like aircraft, cars and automotive parts into the 15% ceiling. This effectively reduces tariffs on EU-made cars (from 27.5%).

    American automakers, meanwhile, rely heavily on parts from Mexico and China – still subject to higher tariffs at the time of writing. This makes EU vehicles more competitive for US consumers than “American” cars that rely on overseas parts.

    Most importantly however, like the UK deal before it, the new EU agreement is a statement of understanding between the White House and the European Commission, rather than a formal treaty. A treaty would be subject to parliamentary ratification on both sides.

    But the semi-formal nature of this agreement allows both Trump and European leaders to portray the deal as a “win” by playing fast and loose with what’s actually in it.

    For example, the Trump administration will celebrate an EU commitment to buy US$250 billion (£189 billion) in US energy imports annually. Yet the concession holds no legal weight in the EU. The European Commission, which negotiated with Trump, does not buy any energy nor does it manage the power grid inside its 27 member states.

    The commission can encourage, but cannot compel, those states to buy American. (Indeed, it might want to do so anyway, since it helps it to pivot away from Russian gas). But ultimately, member states and businesses decide where their energy supply comes from, and they are not direct parties to the deal. Only a formal treaty ratified by the European parliament would compel them.

    No guarantees from Trump

    The informal nature of this agreement also allows EU member states to protest against what they see as capitulation to Trump’s demands without real consequence. After all, there is not yet a treaty text they would be required to vote on or implement.

    The Trump administration similarly imposed its sweeping tariff threats in early spring without a vote from Congress, and has been making ad hoc changes to the rates in the same way.

    On the one hand, this means European countries may not ultimately be required to implement some of the deal’s less savoury elements such as the energy purchases or lowering the bloc’s own tariffs on US goods.

    On the other hand, this means the Trump administration – notorious for abrupt changes of turn – can also renege at any time. In reality, there is little the EU can do about this. The question of leverage looms large. Trump’s longstanding antipathy towards the EU – seeing it less as an ally and more as a rival – meant that Brussels was never negotiating from a position of strength.

    The fact that the EU avoided the worst-case scenario, protected key sectors and secured other sector-specific advantages suggests a deal shaped not by triumph, but by containment of Trump. Since the deal was announced, the picture emerging from many European leaders has been one of gloom. True, the EU didn’t win – but it survived. And that, for now, is probably enough.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    Maha Rafi Atal does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. European gloom over the Trump deal is misplaced. It’s probably the best the EU could have achieved – https://theconversation.com/european-gloom-over-the-trump-deal-is-misplaced-its-probably-the-best-the-eu-could-have-achieved-262369

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Will the latest diplomatic moves to end the war in Gaza work?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Jonathan Este, Senior International Affairs Editor, Associate Editor, The Conversation

    This article was first published in The Conversation UK’s World Affairs Briefing email newsletter. Sign up to receive weekly analysis of the latest developments in international relations, direct to your inbox.

    It feels as if things are moving at completely different speeds in Gaza and in the outside world. From the embattled Gaza Strip the narrative is depressingly familiar. Dozens more Palestinian civilians have been killed in the past 24 hours as they try to get hold of scarce supplies of food.

    Aid agencies report that despite air drops of supplies and “humanitarian pauses” in the fighting, the amount of food getting through to the starving people of Gaza remains pitifully insufficient.

    Two more children are reported to have died of starvation, bringing the total number of hunger-related deaths to 159, according to Palestinian sources quoted by al-Jazeera.

    US envoy Steve Witkoff arrived in Jerusalem for more talks as the US president Donald Trump posted his latest bout of social media diplomacy on his TruthSocial site, a message which appears pretty faithful to the Netanyahu government’s position: “The fastest way to end the Humanitarian Crises in Gaza is for Hamas to SURRENDER AND RELEASE THE HOSTAGES!!”

    Both sides continue to reject the other side’s demands, bringing ceasefire negotiations to an effective standstill.

    In the outside world, meanwhile, events seem to be gathering pace. A “high-level conference” at the United Nations in New York brought together representatives of 17 states, the European Union and the Arab League, resulting in “a comprehensive and actionable framework for the implementation of the two-state solution and the achievement of peace and security for all”.

    Sign up to receive our weekly World Affairs Briefing newsletter from The Conversation UK. Every Thursday we’ll bring you expert analysis of the big stories in international relations.

    What first catches the eye about this proposal, which was signed by Saudi Arabia,
    Qatar, Egypt and Jordan, is that it links a peace deal with the disarming and disbanding of Hamas. It also condemns the militant group’s savage attack on southern Israel on October 23 2023, which was the catalyst for the latest and arguably most grievous chapter of this eight-decade conflict. It’s the first time the Arab League has taken either of these positions.

    The New York declaration, as it has been dubbed, envisages the complete withdrawal of Israeli security forces from Gaza and an end to the displacement of Palestinians. Government will be the responsibility of the Palestinian Authority (PA), and a conference to be scheduled in Egypt will design a plan for the reconstruction of Gaza, much of which has been destroyed in the 20-month assault by the Israel Defense Forces.

    It is, writes Scott Lucas, a “bold initiative” which, “in theory could end the Israeli mass killing in Gaza, remove Hamas from power and begin the implementation of a process for a state of Palestine. The question is whether it has any chance of success.”

    Lucas, an expert in US and Middle East politics at the Clinton Institute of University College Dublin, is not particularly sanguine about the short-term prospects for a ceasefire and the alleviation of the desperate conditions for the people of Gaza. But what it represents more than anything else, is “yet another marker of Israel’s increasing isolation”.

    He points to recent announcements that France, the UK (subject to conditions) and Canada will recognise the state of Palestine at the UN general assembly in September. The prospect of normalisation between Israel and Arab states, at the top of the agenda a few short years ago, is now very unlikely. And in the US, which remains Israel’s staunchest ally, a Gallup poll recently found that public opinion is turning against Israel and its prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu.



    Read more:
    New peace plan increases pressure on Israel and US as momentum grows for Palestinian statehood

    But how important are the declarations by France, the UK and Canada of intent to potentially recognise Palestinian statehood, asks Malak Benslama-Dabdoub. As expert in international law at Royal Holloway University of London, who has focused on the question of Palestinian statelessness, Benslama-Dabdoub thinks that the French and British pledges bear closer examination.

    The French declaration was made on July 24 on Twitter by the president, Emmanuel Macron. Macron envisages a “demilitarised” state, something Benslama-Dabdoub sees as a serious problem, as it effectively denies the fundamental right of states to self-determination and would rob a future Palestinian state of the necessary right to self-defence.

    The declaration by the UK prime minister that Britain may also recognise Palestinian statehood in September is framed as a threat rather than a pledge. Unless Israel agrees to a ceasefire, allows the UN to recommence humanitarian efforts and engages in a long-term sustainable peace process, the UK will go ahead with recognising Palestine at the UN.

    You have to consider that the UK government’s statement said that the position has always been that “Palestinian statehood is the inalienable right of the Palestinian people”. So to frame this as a threat rather than a demand is arguably to deny that “inalienable right”.



    Read more:
    UK to recognise Palestinian statehood unless Israel agrees to ceasefire – here’s what that would mean

    Paul Rogers also sees serious problems with the pledges to recognise Palestinian statehood. Demands for Hamas to disarm and play no further role in Palestinian government he sees as a non-starter as is the thought of a demilitarised Palestine. “Neither plan has the slightest chance of getting off the ground.”

    Rogers, who has researched and written on the Middle East for more than 30 years, also thinks that without the full backing of the US there is very little chance that a peace plan could succeed.

    Rogers finds it hard to believe that Washington will change tack on the Palestinian question, “unless the US president somehow gets the idea that his own reputation is being damaged”. There’s always a chance of this. News from the Gaza Strip is relentlessly horrifying and the aforementioned polls suggest many voters are reassessing their views of the conflict. But Trump is heavily indebted for his re-election to the far-right Christian Zionist movement, who wield a great deal of power with the White House.

    The other thing that might influence the conflict is if enough of the IDF’s top brass recognise the futility of waging what has always been an unwinnable conflict. This, writes Rogers, is whispered about in Israel’s military circles and one eminent retired general, Itzhak Brik, has come out and said: “Hamas has defeated us.”

    These, writes Rogers, are currently the only routes to an end to the conflict.



    Read more:
    UK and France pledges won’t stop Netanyahu bombing Gaza – but Donald Trump or Israel’s military could

    Inside Trumpian diplomacy

    We mentioned earlier that the Canadian prime minister, Mark Carney, has also pledged to recognise the state of Palestine in September. This was immediately greeted by Trump with the threat that he does so it will derail a trade deal with the US. Whether this will cut any ice with Carney, who had to make concessions to get the trade deal done in the first place, remains to be seen.

    But there’s a broader point here, writes Stefan Wolff. As Wolff reports, this week the foreign ministers of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda got together in Washington to sign a ceasefire deal, brokered by the US. Trump also claims to have successfully ended a conflict between India and Pakistan at the end of May and hostilities between Thailand and Cambodia earlier this month.

    Meanwhile his efforts to secure peace deals, or even a lasting ceasefire, in Gaza or Ukraine have been unsuccessful.

    Wolff considers why some countries respond to Trump’s diplomatic efforts while others don’t. There are a number of reasons, principally the US president’s ability to apply leverage through trade deals or sanctions and the differing complexity of the conflicts.

    He also points to the depleted resources of the US state department, Trump’s use of personal envoys with little foreign affairs experience and the US president’s insistence on making all the important decisions himself. He concludes: “The White House simply may not have the bandwidth for the level of engagement that would be necessary to get to a deal in Ukraine and the Middle East.”



    Read more:
    Why Donald Trump has stopped some conflicts but is failing with Ukraine and Gaza

    One US government department whose resources haven’t been depleted under Donald Trump is the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency, known as Ice. Part of the Department of Homeland Security, Ice has been responsible for identifying and detaining non-citizens and undocumented migrants.

    Their agents carry guns, wear masks and typically operate in plain clothes, although they often wear military kit. The agency received massive funding via Trump’s One Bzig Beautiful Bill Act earlier this month, which will allow the agency to recruit hundreds, if not thousands, of new agents. The number of arrests is increasing steadily, as is the disquiet their operations are prompting in many American cities, where opposition protests are also growing.

    Dafydd Townley, an expert in US politics at the University of Portsmouth, explains how Ice operates and where it sits in Donald Trump’s plan to deport millions of illegal migrants from the US.



    Read more:
    Masked and armed agents are arresting people on US streets as aggressive immigration enforcement ramps up

    World Affairs Briefing from The Conversation UK is available as a weekly email newsletter. Click here to get updates directly in your inbox.

    – ref. Will the latest diplomatic moves to end the war in Gaza work? – https://theconversation.com/will-the-latest-diplomatic-moves-to-end-the-war-in-gaza-work-262380

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • Trump wants deal to end Russia’s war in Ukraine by August 8, US tells UN

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    U.S. President Donald Trump has made clear that he wants a deal to end Russia’s war in Ukraine by August 8, the United States told the United Nations Security Council on Thursday.

    “Both Russia and Ukraine must negotiate a ceasefire and durable peace. It is time to make a deal. President Trump has made clear this must be done by August 8. The United States is prepared to implement additional measures to secure peace,” senior U.S. diplomat John Kelley told the 15-member council.

    Trump said on Tuesday that the United States would start imposing tariffs and other measures on Russia “10 days from today” if Moscow showed no progress toward ending its war in Ukraine.

    Kyiv and Moscow have held three rounds of talks in Istanbul this year that yielded exchanges of prisoners and bodies, but no breakthrough to defuse the more than three-year conflict.

    “We intend to continue the negotiations in Istanbul,” Russia’s deputy U.N. Ambassador Dmitry Polyanskiy told the council, but he added: “Despite the meetings in Istanbul, in the West, the war party did not go away … We continue hearing voices of those who think that diplomacy is just a way of criticizing Russia and exerting pressure on it.”

    Ukraine’s deputy U.N. Ambassador Khrystyna Hayovyshyn said Russia must be confronted with “unity, resolve and action.”

    “We seek a comprehensive, just and lasting peace grounded in the principles of the U.N. Charter and nothing less. We repeat – a full, immediate and unconditional ceasefire is essential. It is the first step to halting Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine,” she told the council.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese Defense Minister Says PLA Ready to Seek Complete Reunification of China

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    BEIJING, July 31 (Xinhua) — Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun on Thursday said the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) is always ready to pursue the goal of complete reunification of China, resolutely oppose any separatist attempt to gain “Taiwan independence” and suppress any military interference from external forces.

    Dong Jun made the remarks at a grand reception held by the Chinese Ministry of Defense in Beijing to mark the 98th anniversary of the founding of the PLA on August 1.

    The Minister recalled that this year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Taiwan from Japanese occupation, and the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations.

    On September 3, a military parade will be held in Tiananmen Square in Beijing to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

    Dong Jun said the parade would demonstrate to the Party and the Chinese people that the PLA is a powerful force that stands guard over peace and justice.

    The Chinese military, the minister added, is ready to work with its counterparts in all countries of the world to implement the concept of a community with a shared future for mankind and the three major global initiatives, jointly respond to risks and challenges, and hand in hand build a world of lasting peace, universal security, common prosperity, openness, inclusiveness, cleanliness and beauty. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Tatyana Golikova held a meeting on the national project “Personnel”.

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Deputy Prime Minister Tatyana Golikova held a meeting of the project committee for the national project “Personnel”. The meeting was attended by Minister of Labor and Social Protection Anton Kotyakov, head of the State Council commission on “Personnel”, Governor of the Kaluga Region Vladislav Shapsha, representatives of the Ministry of Education and Science, the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Finance, the Federal Agency for Youth Affairs and others. The meeting participants discussed the results of the national project implementation in the first half of 2025, as well as the federal projects included in it.

    As noted by Tatyana Golikova, four federal projects are being implemented within the framework of the national project “Personnel”: “Labor Market Management”, “Active Measures to Promote Employment”, “Education for the Labor Market” and “The Labor Person”. Federal projects include measures to actively involve graduates of educational institutions in employment, synchronization of modern qualification requirements in the spheres of labor and education, which will allow for more efficient and high-quality training of personnel for the needs of the economy. In addition, vocational training and additional vocational education are provided for people experiencing difficulties in finding a job, as well as increasing the labor mobility of citizens and the popularity of blue-collar jobs.

    As part of the “Labor Market Management” project, employment centers are being modernized into modern “Work of Russia” personnel centers. They are becoming full-fledged partners of employers in building teams and personal consultants for those wishing to build a career. In total, over 480 centers are planned to be modernized this year; the modernization of the center in Omsk Oblast has already been completed. By the end of 2028, the entire employment service system in the country will be updated. Over 2.5 thousand employees of the employment service have been trained; in total, about 6 thousand employees will be trained this year.

    All regions have approved regional plans to combat illegal employment for the period 2025–2027.

    As part of the implementation of the federal project “Education for the Labor Market”, national rankings of universities and colleges for graduate employment were published on June 15. Since the beginning of the year, a pilot test of methodological recommendations for organizing a system of professional orientation and routing of students and graduates has been conducted in 11 regions. The pilot experience will be replicated throughout the country.

    Preparatory work is underway to modernize career centers. In total, 162 career centers aimed at facilitating graduate employment are planned to be modernized in 2025.

    Under the federal project “Active measures to promote employment” within the framework of the implementation of the vocational training program for certain categories of citizens, 44.2 thousand applications were approved, and 20.7 thousand people were sent for training.

    Within the framework of the federal project “Working Man”, events are planned for the competition “Best in Profession”, the All-Russian Employment Fair, and the All-Russian Competition of Best Practices in Youth Employment.

    On June 27, the federal stage of the All-Russian Job Fair took place. 454 thousand people took part in it. In total, over 529 thousand vacancies were presented by almost 23 thousand employers.

    The regional stages of the “Best in Profession” competition are coming to an end in the regions – a total of 210 regional stages are planned in 73 regions, 183 stages have already been held. The award ceremony will take place in Moscow in early December.

    From June 23 to August 31, the application submission stage for the All-Russian competition of best youth employment practices is underway.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Government meeting.

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    On the agenda: the results of a working trip to the Far Eastern and Siberian Federal Districts, writing off debt on budget loans to regions, and increasing the grace period for mortgage payments upon the birth of a second child.

    Opening remarks by Mikhail Mishustin:

    Good afternoon, dear colleagues!

    Before we move on to the agenda of today’s Government meeting, I would like to talk about the results of the trip to Omsk Oblast, which became the final point of our major working trip to the Far Eastern and Siberian Federal Districts.

    The region is developing. Significant infrastructure is being actively built, including transport infrastructure, which is part of the high-speed automobile route “Russia” – from St. Petersburg to Vladivostok. It is necessary to complete all planned work within the established deadlines.

    We visited several healthcare and educational facilities. We made a number of decisions on the hospital and clinic for war veterans so that participants in the special military operation could undergo treatment and recovery in comfortable conditions. Comprehensive support for our heroes is one of the key priorities of the Government.

    Agenda of the meeting

    Materials for the Government meeting on July 31, 2025

    We got acquainted with the course of the admission campaign at Omsk University. We will help with equipping its main building with educational equipment. We will allocate additional funds for major repairs of dormitories.

    The region presented its initiative to create an inter-university campus. The modern educational space will become a point of attraction for talented young people. This will be decided within the framework of the competition of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education.

    Participants of the meeting

    List of participants of the Government meeting, July 31, 2025

    In September, the first branch of a foreign university in our country, the Kazakh National University, will begin teaching students in Omsk. Almost everything is ready for its opening. We will continue to strengthen cooperation between the two countries in the field of higher education and scientific research.

    In the Amur Region, we inspected how the reconstruction of the airport complex is being carried out, the expansion of the road that leads to the airport – the most important objects for the region and residents. Here I would ask, Vitaly Gennadyevich (addressing V. Savelyev), you, the Ministry of Transport to monitor the timing and progress of the work.

    We also visited the customs and logistics terminal and the checkpoint on the border with China – Kani-Kurgan. I know how Vitaly Gennadyevich was actively involved in this. This will be a model checkpoint, to which we distribute, among other things, technological solutions built on domestic software products.

    Completion of its construction will increase the volume of transportation on the new bridge crossing over the Amur River. This is only part, I will say again, of the large work on developing cross-border logistics. Almost 180 billion rubles have been allocated for the modernization of points in the next three years, taking into account the prospective trade turnover and priority areas for the country.

    The most important thing now is that plans for launching such facilities in the region and throughout the country as a whole are implemented clearly and on time.

    In the Trans-Baikal Territory, in Chita, a separate meeting was held on issues of grain export development.

    Our own production covers our domestic needs. Let me remind you that Russia is a world leader in wheat and barley supplies abroad. The potential is even higher. It is important to fully realize it. We will continue to support our farmers, expand port capacities, and create the necessary infrastructure for both storage and transportation of products.

    Oksana Nikolaevna (addressing O. Lut), I would like to ask you to create additional opportunities for domestic agricultural producers to enter foreign markets.

    I know there are a number of questions. I also want to tell the members of the Government that we need to help our exporters in this regard.

    This is also necessary to increase the competitiveness of our economy and to fulfill the task approved by the President to increase exports of the Russian agricultural sector.

    We also inspected the perinatal center in Chita. The national project “Family” provides for its re-equipment already this year. Equipment is being received so that both mothers and babies receive modern treatment.

    This work continues throughout the country. In just six years, advanced equipment will be delivered to 142 perinatal centers, including nine federal ones.

    In Transbaikalia, major repairs are also being carried out at medical institutions, and a number of new ones are being created.

    Mikhail Albertovich (addressing M. Murashko), as we agreed, we need to monitor the construction deadlines to ensure their timely opening. This is very important for people. We need to interact more actively with colleagues from the region in this area.

    Issues of improving healthcare infrastructure were also given attention during a working visit to the Altai Republic. There, under the national project “Long and Active Life”, a hospital admissions department was built using federal funds. High-tech medical care will become even more accessible to local residents. It is in demand there.

    With the head of this Russian subject, Andrey Anatolyevich Turchak, we discussed in detail the progress of the implementation of the individual program of socio-economic development, which, by decision of the President, was formed until 2030.

    We also looked separately at how projects that are important for people are being implemented, including those to strengthen transport connectivity. Roads, bridges, and crossings are being repaired. The airport is being modernized. This is also important given the significant growth in tourist flow to this region. Travelers come there from all over Russia and from abroad. In early July, a separate domestic terminal opened in Gorno-Altaisk, and last week, a new international one, in line with all standards. Its first visitors were guests of the International Environmental Conference, in which we took part.

    Together with our colleagues – heads of government of a number of countries, during the plenary session we exchanged a vision of joint work to protect the environment in the interests of the present and future generations. We will strengthen cooperation in this important area.

    In our country, environmental well-being has been approved by the President as one of the national goals. We will continue to do everything necessary to achieve it. First of all, if we list the priorities, this is the conservation of forests, water bodies, rare species of animals and plants, the development of protected areas. We will also continue to form a closed-loop economy.

    The Ministry of Natural Resources needs to expand cooperation with foreign partners in all these areas. Establish an exchange of best practices, create conditions for ecotourism – all the colleagues who spoke spoke about this – so that more people could see pristine nature.

    And I would also like to say that the topic of ecology and environmental protection is very important for our colleagues from the CIS countries.

    This topic is also relevant for the Altai Territory. We discussed this in detail with Governor Viktor Petrovich Tomenko. In the region, with the support of the federal budget, transport accessibility is being improved, and the infrastructure needed for travelers is being formed. Without a doubt, this work should be continued.

    Colleagues, I ask all area curators to constantly monitor how the implementation of projects is proceeding locally.

    I would like to separately mention one important issue that I discussed with the governors of the Amur Region and the Zabaikalsky Krai – emergency situations caused by forest fires.

    The situation has now stabilized. But the fight against the fire required the involvement of additional forces – specialists, heavy equipment, aviation. In connection with which, of course, the costs of the necessary measures have increased. An order has been prepared to provide almost 1.4 billion rubles to these regions, as well as to Krasnoyarsk Krai and the Republic of Buryatia. These funds will be used to compensate for the costs of extinguishing the fires.

    It is difficult to predict fire situations and their intensity accurately, but I ask the leadership of regions where such cases are not uncommon to pay special attention to prevention. There should be no threats to people’s health and safety. And at the same time, of course, it is necessary to monitor the efficiency of spending budget funds.

    On to another topic.

    Document

    The government has written off debt on budget loans to eight regions that have implemented infrastructure projects

    The government continues to stimulate economic development in Russian regions. To do this, we are reducing the financial burden, primarily for those who actively attract investment and build infrastructure. For them, on the instructions of the President, we have provided the opportunity to write off two-thirds of the debt on budget loans. The corresponding rules were adopted in February.

    Today, we will write off such loans for eight more regions in the amount of over 47.27 billion rubles. These are the republics of Kalmykia and Karelia, as well as the Voronezh, Kirov, Kemerovo, Moscow, Smolensk and Tver regions. They previously allocated funds for the implementation of national projects, improvement of housing and utilities, resettlement of citizens from dilapidated housing, support for industry and other purposes.

    Such a decision on debts should have a positive impact on the budget system of these territories, on the dynamics of their development, which will contribute to the fulfillment of many tasks, including social issues.

    And also – about supporting families with children. This is one of the key priorities of the Government’s work, which the head of state has repeatedly drawn attention to. A number of measures have been taken on his instructions. Today we will supplement them with another one.

    A bill has been prepared that is intended to reduce the burden on parents paying off a mortgage. Currently, when a child is born, the borrower is entitled to a six-month credit holiday if his or her income has decreased by more than 20%, and the costs of servicing the loan exceed 40% of average monthly income.

    Now, for those who have given birth to or adopted a second or subsequent child, the grace period will be increased to one and a half years. At the same time, interest on the principal debt will be charged only from the 7th to the 18th month. And they can be paid not immediately, but after the obligations under the current agreement are paid off. In equal parts and with the same frequency as before.

    This will support families during the most difficult period, when one of the parents is caring for a child and is unable to go to work. And of course, we expect that together with other current measures, this will affect the demographic situation in the country as a whole.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin: About 700 km of roads to sports facilities will be updated in 2025 thanks to the national project “Infrastructure for Life”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Thanks to the national project “Infrastructure for Life”, work continues on upgrading roads leading to stadiums, clubs, youth schools and other sports facilities. In total, this year it is planned to upgrade about 700 km of such sections of regional and local roads, Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin reported.

    “Updating roads to sports facilities is an important part of creating a comfortable environment. This helps ensure convenient and unimpeded access to sports facilities for thousands of residents. First of all, this is important for popularizing a healthy lifestyle. Thanks to the national project “Infrastructure for Life”, in 2025 we plan to bring 225 sections of the regional and local road network leading to stadiums, clubs, children’s and youth schools and other sports facilities to a regulatory state – this is 695 km of regional and local roads,” said Marat Khusnullin.

    Sporting events often attract large crowds. Good road conditions ensure safe traffic and pedestrian traffic, and reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.

    “In 2024 alone, 270 road sections were updated under the already completed national project “Safe High-Quality Roads”. Their total length was more than 800 km. Sports facilities are visited by people of all ages, including children. Therefore, we pay special attention to safety elements: we equip the necessary signs, traffic lights, sidewalks and pedestrian crossings,” said Minister of Transport Andrei Nikitin.

    In Bryansk, Menzhinsky Street is undergoing a major overhaul along its entire length – 2.3 km. This is the route to the Spartak stadium, which was renovated in 2020. The stadium is home to a sports school of the same name, where more than 200 young football players study. The road surface is being renovated, sidewalks and storm drains are being installed at the site. To ensure traffic safety, a pedestrian fence, outdoor electric lighting lines, speed bumps, bus stops, public transport access pockets and a new bus shelter will be installed, as well as new road signs, paint and thermoplastic markings with reflective elements.

    In the Bolsheglushitsky District of the Samara Region, a 1.4 km section of the access road to the village of Bolshaya Glushitsa is being overhauled. The road leads to the Yubileiny sports complex, which houses a structural division of the children’s and youth sports school based at Secondary Comprehensive School No. 2. There are 10 sports sections here. The school is attended by more than 150 children aged 5 to 18.

    Another significant “sports” route that is being repaired under the national project is a 9.2 km section of the Moscow Highway in Samara. This is part of the route to the Olympic Reserve Sports School No. 7 for Cycling named after Honored Coach of the USSR V.P. Petrov. More than 370 athletes undergo basic training here.

    The road to the sports facility is also being renovated in the Bogatovsky District. A section of the Bogatoye – Samara – Orenburg highway, almost 10 km long, is being repaired here. The highway leads to the district center – the village of Bogatoye. A children’s and youth sports school is located here on the basis of a secondary comprehensive school. 550 children are involved in sections in several areas: football, volleyball and judo. In addition to local children, the school is attended by children from nearby villages, including Andreyevka and Vilovatoye.

    In total, 10 road facilities leading to 25 sports facilities, with a total length of 80.87 km, will be renovated in the Samara Region under the national project “Infrastructure for Life” this year.

    In Krasnoyarsk, a 3.3 km section of Partizana Zheleznyaka Street is being repaired this year under the national project “Infrastructure for Life”. The street leads to the Sokol Ice Palace. Children’s and youth teams of the sports school train here in hockey. In addition, sports matches and figure skating competitions are held, which are attended by thousands of spectators from all over the region.

    Also this year, a 3.6 km section of Sverdlovskaya Street from Aleksandra Matrosova Street to house No. 73 was renovated. Now residents and guests of Krasnoyarsk can comfortably get to the Bobrovy Log ski resort, which includes trails of varying difficulty, a snowboard park, a cross-country ski route and other locations. This is a popular place for active winter recreation. More than 550 thousand residents and guests of the city visit it annually.

    In total, 12 sections of roads to sports facilities with a total length of more than 20 km will be updated in Krasnoyarsk Krai under the national project “Infrastructure for Life” this year.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin: Since the beginning of the garage amnesty, Russians have registered more than 605 thousand objects

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Since the garage amnesty law came into effect, Rosreestr has registered more than 605 thousand objects across the country. An unregistered garage and the land underneath it can be registered under a simplified procedure until September 1, 2026, Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin reported.

    “The President signed the law on garage amnesty in April 2021, it became an important measure of support for Russians who were given the opportunity to register an unregistered garage and the land underneath it under a simplified scheme. Almost four years into its implementation, the garage amnesty continues to show its popularity among the population. More than 605 thousand objects have already been registered under a simplified procedure, including 205 thousand garages and 400 thousand land plots underneath them. This work is aimed at protecting the rights and interests of citizens, and also stimulates the development of the real estate market,” said Marat Khusnullin.

    According to the Deputy Prime Minister, since the law was implemented, the largest number of garages have been registered in Omsk (12.9 thousand), Moscow (9.2 thousand), Tyumen (8.9 thousand), Saratov (8.4 thousand) regions and the Republic of Tatarstan (8.2 thousand). The leaders in the number of registered land plots for garages were Tyumen (21.1 thousand), Moscow (20 thousand), Saratov (17.3 thousand) regions, Perm Krai (15.5 thousand) and Omsk Region (13.7 thousand).

    “In the first half of 2025, almost 87 thousand objects were registered (25 thousand garages and 62 thousand land plots under them), which is comparable to the same period a year earlier (99 thousand objects – 33 thousand garages and 66 thousand land plots). Also, information was additionally included on 27.8 thousand objects, for which changes were made to the information on the type of real estate object in the Unified State Register, thanks to which owners will be able to register the land under the garages,” said Oleg Skufinsky, head of Rosreestr.

    To inform people about how to take advantage of the garage amnesty, Rosreestr is conducting methodological and explanatory work in the regions. All mechanisms and technologies have been debugged, bureaucratic barriers have been eliminated, and citizens have every opportunity to become legal owners of their garages.

    The garage amnesty came into effect in September 2021 on the instructions of the Government. Currently, given the popularity of the service, the issue of its possible extension is being considered so that as many residents of the country as possible can take advantage of this mechanism.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: Inflation in the regions is declining more and more confidently.

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Central Bank of Russia –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    In June, prices fell or remained unchanged in 17 Russian regions, in 42 they rose less than in May, and in the rest, price growth accelerated.

    Food prices increased moderately in June, and vegetables and fruits became cheaper even more significantly than usual in the season. Eggs and butter continued to become cheaper, and sugar prices decreased. At the same time, tea, coffee and cocoa became more expensive faster.

    Among non-food products, the most noticeable decline in price was in equipment and electronics. Demand for these products was falling primarily due to the cooling of lending. The strengthening of the ruble also contributed.

    The growth in prices for services remained high, but was much less than in May. In particular, household, medical services, and foreign tourism services increased in price less.

    Annual inflation fell in 68 regions of the country in June. The Bank of Russia will continue to reduce price growth, maintaining high rates. According to the forecast, annual inflation will return to 4% in 2026 and remain close to this level in the future.

    For more information on inflation in each region, seeinformation and analytical materials, published on the website of the Bank of Russia.

    Preview photo: Medvedeva Oxana / Shutterstock / Fotodom

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: Decision of the Board of Directors on Amendments to the Type C Account Regime

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Central Bank of Russia –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    On July 31, 2025, the Board of Directors of the Bank of Russia decided to introduce Decision of the Board of Directors of the Bank of Russia dated November 21, 2022 “On the establishment of the type “C” account regime for settlements and the implementation (execution) of transactions (operations) to which the procedure for fulfilling obligations provided for by Decree of the President of the Russian Federation dated March 5, 2022 No. 95 “On the temporary procedure for fulfilling obligations to certain foreign creditors” applies change, adding the following words to paragraph twelve of subparagraph 1.1 of paragraph 1:

    “; transfers by order of a non-resident for whom a type “C” bank account has been opened in favor of a resident for the purpose of fulfilling the non-resident’s obligation to transfer funds, provided that transactions (operations) related to such transfers are concluded between the said resident and the non-resident from whose type “C” bank account funds are debited, which entail the transfer of ownership of securities to the resident in accordance with permits issued on the basis of decrees of the President of the Russian Federation, if the terms of such transactions (operations) provide for the alienation in favor of the non-resident of property (including property rights) recorded abroad, the disposal of which is restricted due to unfriendly actions of foreign states; transfers at the order of a non-resident for whom a type “C” bank account has been opened, in the amount of dividends previously credited to the type “C” bank account due to this non-resident, in favor of the resident for the purpose of fulfilling the non-resident’s obligation to transfer funds, subject to obtaining permission issued on the basis of decrees of the President of the Russian Federation to pay dividends to the non-resident.”

    The decision of the Board of Directors of the Bank of Russia to amend the decision of the Board of Directors of the Bank of Russia dated November 21, 2022 shall apply from the date of its publication on the official website of the Bank of Russia on the information and telecommunications network “Internet”.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial News: Official Analytical Information Publication Calendar for August 2025

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Central Bank of Russia –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    31.07.202516: 00Total international reserve assets, end of working week*weekly values31.07.2025—Banking System Review (in accordance with the requirements of the IMF SDDS)*01.07.202501.08.202511: 00Monetary base in narrow definition (Weekly values)weekly values06.08.2025—Average monthly actual rates on loans provided by Moscow banks in rubles and US dollars (MIACR, MIACR-IG, MIACR-B, MIACR USD)July 202506.08.2025—Average weighted interest rates on loans and deposits and the structure of loans and deposits by maturity (information on loans provided to non-financial organizations)June 202506.08.2025—Information on allocated funds (information on loans granted to legal entities and individual entrepreneurs; small and medium-sized businesses)01.07.202506.08.2025 –Brief commentary “Lending to legal entities and individual entrepreneurs”01.07.202506.08.2025 –Information bulletin “Information on the mortgage housing lending market in Russia”01.07.202507.08.2025 –Financial assets and liabilities of the Households sector for selected financial instruments01.07.202507.08.2025 –Non-financial sector and household debt ratio for bank loans and issued debt securities01.07.202507.08.2025 –Key performance indicators of mutual investment fundsJune 202507.08.2025—Households sector transactions with financial assets and liabilities for individual financial instruments01.07.202507.08.202516: 00Total international reserve assets, end of working week*weekly values07.08.202516:00International reserves of the Russian Federation (as of the beginning of the reporting date)08.08.202507.08.202516: 00International reserve assets (end of period) (in accordance with IMF SDDS requirements)*July 202507.08.2025—Dynamic series of key performance indicators of mutual investment funds and joint-stock investment fundsJune 202508.08.2025—Average weighted interest rates on loans and deposits and the structure of loans and deposits by maturity (information on loans granted to individuals; deposits of individuals and non-financial organizations)June 202508.08.2025—Information on average arithmetic interest rates on deposits of individuals in rubles, US dollars and eurosJune 202508.08.2025—Brief commentary “Interest rates on credit and deposit operations of credit institutions in rubles”June 202508/08/202511:00Monetary base in narrow definition (Weekly values)weekly values08.08.2025—Monetary base in a narrow definition01.08.202511.08.202516: 00Foreign trade of the Russian Federation in goods (according to the balance of payments methodology)*June 202512.08.2025—Key Stock Market Indicators*July 202513.08.2025—Statistical Bulletin “Lending to Small and Medium-Sized Businesses”June 2025 08/14/2025 16:00Assessment of the balance of payments of the Russian FederationJanuary-June 2025 08/14/2025 16:00Assessment of key aggregates of the balance of payments of the Russian FederationJanuary-June 2025 08/14/2025 16:00Assessment of the external debt of the Russian Federation01.07.202514.08.202516: 00Total international reserve assets, end of working week*weekly values14.08.2025—Central Bank Survey (in accordance with IMF SDDS requirements)*01.08.202514.08.2025 –Short-term external debt of the Russian Federation by remaining maturity01.04.202514.08.2025 –Debt securities owned by Russian banks transferred under repo transactions with the Bank of Russia01.08.202514.08.2025 –Monetary base in a broad definition01.08.202515.08.2025 –Information on early repayment and refinancing of mortgage housing loansII quarter 2025 08/15/2025—Average daily turnover indicators of the interbank loan (deposit) market and repo transactionsJuly 2025 08/15/2025—Key derivative indicators of the ruble exchange rate dynamicsJuly 2025 08/15/2025 16:00The share of non-resident investments in the volume of bond issues of external bond loans of the Russian Federation01.07.202515.08.2025 –Dynamic series of the main indicators of the segment of individual investment accounts (IIA)II quarter 2025 08/15/202511:00Monetary base in narrow definition (Weekly values)weekly values15.08.202516:00Foreign trade of the Russian Federation in services by monthJune 2025 08/15/2025—Currency structure of settlements for the supply of goods and provision of services under foreign trade contracts by geographic zones and currencies of states in accordance with the Order of the Government of the Russian Federation dated 05.03.2022 No. 430-rJune 202520.08.202516:00Assessment of upcoming changes in international reserves and other liquidity in foreign currency of the monetary authorities of the Russian Federation*01.08.202521.08.202516: 00Total international reserve assets, end of working week*weekly values21.08.2025—Central Bank Review01.08.202521.08.2025 –Review of credit institutions01.08.202521.08.2025 –Overview of the banking system01.08.202521.08.2025 –Listed shares of Russian issuers traded on the domestic market01.08.202521.08.2025 –Money supply M2 (national definition)01.08.202521.08.2025 –Variable coupon debt securities issued on the domestic market by type of base indicator01.08.202521.08.2025 –Domestic debt securities issued by interest rate types01.08.202521.08.2025 –Domestic debt securities01.08.202522.08.2025 –International investment position of the Russian Federation in national and foreign currencies01.04.202522.08.202511: 00Monetary base in narrow definition (Weekly values)weekly values26.08.202516:00The share of non-resident investments in the volume of federal loan bond issues01.08.202527.08.202516: 00The share of non-resident investments in the volume of federal loan bond issues01.08.202528.08.202516: 00Total international reserve assets, end of working week*weekly values28.08.2025—Domestic debt securities included in the sustainable development sector01.08.202529.08.2025 –Financial accounts and balance sheets of financial assets and liabilities of the system of national accounts of the Russian Federation01.04.202529.08.2025 –Information on deposited funds (information on loans granted to individuals)01.08.202529.08.2025 –Information on attracted funds (information on funds of organizations, bank deposits (deposits) and other attracted funds of legal entities and individuals, budget funds in accounts opened in credit institutions)01.08.202529.08.2025 –Indicators of the housing (mortgage housing) lending market01.08.202529.08.2025 –Key performance indicators of non-state pension funds operating in the area of compulsory pension insuranceII quarter 2025 08/29/2025—Key performance indicators of non-state pension funds operating in non-state pension provisionII quarter 2025 08/29/2025—Banking System Review (in accordance with the requirements of the IMF SDDS)*01.08.202529.08.202511: 00Monetary base in narrow definition (Weekly values)weekly values01.09.2025—Dynamic series of the main performance indicators of professional participants in the securities marketII quarter 2025 09/01/2025—Dynamic series of the main indicators of brokers’ activitiesII quarter 202502.09.2025—Key indicators of the balance sheet and financial performance report of management companiesII quarter 2025 09/02/2025—Financial Sector Review01.04.202502.09.2025 –Review of other financial institutions01.04.202502.09.2025 –Dynamic series of key performance indicators of management companiesII quarter 2025 09/02/2025—Dynamic series of key performance indicators of trust managersII quarter 202509/04/2025—Average monthly actual rates on loans provided by Moscow banks in rubles and US dollars (MIACR, MIACR-IG, MIACR-B, MIACR USD)August 202509/04/202516:00Total international reserve assets, end of working week*weekly values05.09.2025—Information on the main performance indicators of the insurerJanuary-June 202505.09.2025—Non-financial sector and household debt ratio for bank loans and issued debt securities08.08.202505.09.202516: 00International reserves of the Russian Federation (as of the beginning of the reporting date)09.09.202505.09.202516: 00International reserve assets (end of period) (in accordance with IMF SDDS requirements)*August 202509/05/2025—Information bulletin “Information on the mortgage housing lending market in Russia”08.08.202505.09.202511: 00Monetary base in narrow definition (Weekly values)weekly values05.09.2025—Monetary base in a narrow definition01.09.202508.09.2025 –Financial assets and liabilities of the Households sector for selected financial instruments01.08.202508.09.2025 –Average weighted interest rates on loans and deposits and the structure of loans and deposits by maturity (information on loans granted to individuals; deposits of individuals and non-financial organizations)July 202509/08/2025—Average weighted interest rates on loans and deposits and the structure of loans and deposits by maturity (information on loans provided to non-financial organizations)July 202509/08/2025—Information on average arithmetic interest rates on deposits of individuals in rubles, US dollars and eurosJuly 202509/08/2025—Information on allocated funds (information on loans granted to legal entities and individual entrepreneurs; small and medium-sized businesses)01.08.202508.09.2025 –Households sector transactions with financial assets and liabilities for individual financial instruments01.08.202508.09.2025 –Brief commentary “Interest rates on credit and deposit operations of credit institutions in rubles”July 202509/08/2025—Brief commentary “Lending to legal entities and individual entrepreneurs”08.08.202509.09.2025 –Key performance indicators of mutual investment fundsJuly 202509.09.2025—Dynamic series of key performance indicators of mutual investment funds and joint-stock investment fundsJuly 202511.09.202516:00Total international reserve assets, end of working week*weekly values11.09.202516:00Foreign trade of the Russian Federation in goods (according to the balance of payments methodology)*July 202512.09.2025—Key derivative indicators of the ruble exchange rate dynamicsAugust 2025 09/12/2025—Key Stock Market Indicators*August 2025 09/12/2025—Key performance indicators of housing savings cooperativesII quarter 2025 09/12/2025—Central Bank Survey (in accordance with IMF SDDS requirements)*01.09.202512.09.2025 –Monetary base in a broad definition01.09.202512.09.202511: 00Monetary base in narrow definition (Weekly values)weekly values15.09.2025—Statistical Bulletin “Lending to Small and Medium-Sized Businesses”July 202515.09.2025—Average daily turnover indicators of the interbank loan (deposit) market and repo transactionsAugust 202509/15/202516:00Assessment of the balance of payments of the Russian FederationJanuary-July 2025 09/15/2025 16:00Assessment of key aggregates of the balance of payments of the Russian FederationJanuary-July 202515.09.2025—Currency structure of settlements for the supply of goods and provision of services under foreign trade contracts by geographic zones and currencies of states in accordance with the Order of the Government of the Russian Federation dated 05.03.2022 No. 430-rJuly 202516.09.2025—Debt securities owned by Russian banks transferred under repo transactions with the Bank of Russia01.09.202516.09.202516: 00Foreign trade of the Russian Federation in services by monthJuly 2025 09/18/2025 16:00Total international reserve assets, end of working week*weekly values19.09.202516:00Assessment of upcoming changes in international reserves and other liquidity in foreign currency of the monetary authorities of the Russian Federation*01.09.202519.09.202511: 00Monetary base in narrow definition (Weekly values)weekly values22.09.2025—Central Bank Review01.09.202522.09.2025 –Review of credit institutions01.09.202522.09.2025 –Overview of the banking system01.09.202522.09.2025 –Money supply M2 (national definition)01.09.202523.09.2025 –Listed shares of Russian issuers traded on the domestic market01.09.202523.09.2025 –Variable coupon debt securities issued on the domestic market by type of base indicator01.09.202523.09.2025 –Domestic debt securities issued by interest rate types01.09.202523.09.2025 –Domestic debt securities01.09.202525.09.202516: 00Total international reserve assets, end of working week*weekly values25.09.202516:00The share of non-resident investments in the volume of federal loan bond issues01.09.202526.09.202511: 00Monetary base in narrow definition (Weekly values)weekly values29.09.2025—Domestic debt securities included in the sustainable development sector01.09.202530.09.2025 –Information on deposited funds (information on loans granted to individuals)01.09.202530.09.2025 –Information on attracted funds (information on funds of organizations, bank deposits (deposits) and other attracted funds of legal entities and individuals, budget funds in accounts opened in credit institutions)01.09.202530.09.2025 –Indicators of the housing (mortgage housing) lending market01.09.202530.09.202516: 00Balance of payments, international investment position and external debt of the Russian FederationII quarter 2025 09.30.202516:00Balance of Payments of the Russian Federation. Analytical PresentationII quarter 2025 09.30.202516:00Balance of Payments of the Russian Federation. Standard Components*II quarter 2025 09/30/2025—Banking System Review (in accordance with the requirements of the IMF SDDS)*01.09.202530.09.202516: 00International Investment Position of the Russian Federation. Standard Components (as of date)*01.07.202530.09.202516: 00International Investment Position of the Russian Federation. Main AggregatesII quarter 2025 09.30.202516:00External debt of the Russian Federation by maturity and financial instruments*01.07.202530.09.202516: 00External debt of the Russian Federation in national and foreign currencies01.07.202530.09.202516: 00External debt of the Russian Federation01.07.202501.10.2025 –Financial assets and liabilities of the Households sector01.07.202501.10.2025 –Households sector transactions with financial assets and liabilities01.07.202502.10.202516: 00Total international reserve assets, end of working week*weekly values03.10.202511:00Monetary base in narrow definition (Weekly values)weekly values03.10.2025—Monetary base in a narrow definition01.10.202506.10.2025 –Average monthly actual rates on loans provided by Moscow banks in rubles and US dollars (MIACR, MIACR-IG, MIACR-B, MIACR USD)September 202507.10.2025—Average weighted interest rates on loans and deposits and the structure of loans and deposits by maturity (information on loans provided to non-financial organizations)August 2025 10/07/2025—Information on allocated funds (information on loans granted to legal entities and individual entrepreneurs; small and medium-sized businesses)09.09.202507.10.2025 –Non-financial sector and household debt ratio for bank loans and issued debt securities01.09.202507.10.202516: 00International reserves of the Russian Federation (as of the beginning of the reporting date)01.10.202507.10.202516: 00International reserve assets (end of period) (in accordance with IMF SDDS requirements)*September 202507.10.2025—Brief commentary “Lending to legal entities and individual entrepreneurs”09.09.202507.10.2025 –Information bulletin “Information on the mortgage housing lending market in Russia”09.09.202507.10.2025 –Foreign trade of the Russian Federation in services in the structure of the extended classification of services (according to the balance of payments methodology)II quarter 2025 10/08/2025—Financial assets and liabilities of the Households sector for selected financial instruments09.09.202508.10.2025 –Average weighted interest rates on loans and deposits and the structure of loans and deposits by maturity (information on loans granted to individuals; deposits of individuals and non-financial organizations)August 2025 10/08/2025—Information on average arithmetic interest rates on deposits of individuals in rubles, US dollars and eurosAugust 2025 10/08/2025—Key performance indicators of mutual investment fundsAugust 2025 10/08/2025—Households sector transactions with financial assets and liabilities for individual financial instruments09.09.202508.10.2025 –Brief commentary “Interest rates on credit and deposit operations of credit institutions in rubles”August 2025 10/08/2025—Dynamic series of key performance indicators of mutual investment funds and joint-stock investment fundsAugust 2025 10/09/2025—Current account of the balance of payments of the Russian Federation with seasonal adjustmentII quarter 2025 09.10.2025—Main aggregates of the current account of the balance of payments of the Russian Federation with seasonal adjustmentII quarter 202509.10.202516:00Total international reserve assets, end of working week*weekly values09.10.2025—Dynamics of individual indicators of the current account with seasonal adjustmentII quarter 2025 10.10.2025—Direct investments of the Russian Federation by the asset/liability principle and the directional principle01.07.202510.10.2025 –List of financial sector organizations01.10.202510.10.2025 –Key Stock Market Indicators*September 202510.10.2025—Accumulated balances on direct investments of the Russian Federation on direct investment instruments (by the principle of direction)01.07.202510.10.202511: 00Monetary base in narrow definition (Weekly values)weekly values13.10.202516:00Foreign trade of the Russian Federation in goods (according to the balance of payments methodology)*August 2025 10/14/2025—Export of certain types of services by subjects of the Russian FederationII quarter 2025 October 14, 2025—Statistical Bulletin “Lending to Small and Medium-Sized Businesses”August 2025 10/14/2025—Key derivative indicators of the ruble exchange rate dynamicsSeptember 202510/14/2025—Central Bank Survey (in accordance with IMF SDDS requirements)*01.10.202514.10.2025 –Import of certain types of services by subjects of the Russian FederationII quarter 2025 October 14, 2025—Monetary base in a broad definition01.10.202515.10.2025 –Average daily turnover indicators of the interbank loan (deposit) market and repo transactionsSeptember 202510/15/202516:00Assessment of the balance of payments of the Russian FederationJanuary-August 202510/15/202516:00Assessment of key aggregates of the balance of payments of the Russian FederationJanuary-August 202510/15/2025—Currency structure of settlements for the supply of goods and provision of services under foreign trade contracts by geographic zones and currencies of states in accordance with the Order of the Government of the Russian Federation dated 05.03.2022 No. 430-rAugust 202510/16/202516:00Total international reserve assets, end of working week*weekly values16.10.2025—Debt securities owned by Russian banks transferred under repo transactions with the Bank of Russia01.10.202516.10.202516: 00Foreign trade of the Russian Federation in services by monthAugust 2025 10/17/2025—Extended Non-Financial Sector and Household Debt Measure01.07.202517.10.202511: 00Monetary base in narrow definition (Weekly values)weekly values20.10.2025—Export of certain types of services by types of economic activity of residents of the Russian FederationII quarter 202510/20/202516:00Assessment of upcoming changes in international reserves and other liquidity in foreign currency of the monetary authorities of the Russian Federation*01.10.202520.10.2025 –Central Bank Review01.10.202520.10.2025 –Review of credit institutions01.10.202520.10.2025 –Overview of the banking system01.10.202520.10.2025 –Import of certain types of services by types of economic activity of residents of the Russian FederationII quarter 2025 October 20, 2025—Money supply M2 (national definition)01.10.202522.10.2025 –Listed shares of Russian issuers traded on the domestic market01.10.202522.10.2025 –Variable coupon debt securities issued on the domestic market by type of base indicator01.10.202522.10.2025 –Domestic debt securities issued by interest rate types01.10.202522.10.2025 –Domestic debt securities01.10.202523.10.202516: 00Total international reserve assets, end of working week*weekly values24.10.202511:00Monetary base in narrow definition (Weekly values)weekly values27.10.202516:00The share of non-resident investments in the volume of federal loan bond issues01.10.202530.10.2025 –Information on deposited funds (information on loans granted to individuals)01.10.202530.10.2025 –Information on attracted funds (information on funds of organizations, bank deposits (deposits) and other attracted funds of legal entities and individuals, budget funds in accounts opened in credit institutions)01.10.202530.10.2025 –Indicators of the housing (mortgage housing) lending market01.10.202530.10.202516: 00Total international reserve assets, end of working week*weekly values30.10.2025—Domestic debt securities included in the sustainable development sector01.10.202531.10.2025 –Banking System Review (in accordance with the requirements of the IMF SDDS)*01.10.202531.10.202511: 00Monetary base in narrow definition (Weekly values)weekly values

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Speakers Stress Economic and Social Council’s Key Role in Responding to Today’s Global Challenges, as 54-Member Organ Begins 2026 Session, Elects Bureau

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI

    The Economic and Social Council commenced its 2026 session today, and as Canada handed its presidency to Nepal, speakers pointed to the important role that the organ must play in responding to the myriad challenges of the moment.

    Opening the meeting, Robert Rae (Canada), the Council’s President for its 2025 session, noted that “we hear a lot in the UN discourse about how things are broken, how things have fallen apart, how things are unhinged”.  While not disagreeing with those assessments, he emphasized:  “Our job is not to give speeches saying how terrible things are — our job is to roll up our sleeves and fix things.”  He added that no UN agency or body “has more of a responsibility to do that than the Economic and Social Council”.

    Urging that body to take its responsibilities seriously, he recalled some of the problems that the Council addressed over the past year — the role of artificial intelligence, the situation in Haiti and development in the UN context.  “I think this Council helped,” he stated.  He also pointed out that current questions regarding the UN’s relevance are not new — some even raised them when the Organization was founded — and spotlighted, as a counterpoint, the important discourse concerning the State of Palestine during the recent high-level conference on the two-State solution.

    President Appointed, Vice-Presidents Elected for 2026 Session 

    He concluded that the new Bureau will face new challenges ahead — “that’s how the world works” — and the Council then elected, by acclamation, Lok Bahadur Thapa (Nepal) as President of the Council at its 2026 session.

    Taking his seat at the podium, Mr. Thapa directed the Council to proceed to the election of the other Bureau members for that session.  The body then elected — also by acclamation — Amar Bendjamaa (Algeria), Paruyr Hovhannisyan (Armenia), Wellington Darío Bencosme Castaños (Dominican Republic) and Héctor Gómez Hernández (Spain) to serve as Vice-Presidents.

    Mr. Thapa then delivered his inaugural statement, emphasizing:  “For Nepal, this is a historic moment.”  Recalling that his country was admitted to the UN 70 years ago, he said that assuming Presidency of the Council for the first time is a “testament to our enduring commitment to multilateralism and our aspiration to contribute meaningfully to build trust, strengthen multilateral cooperation and achieve a more just, inclusive, equitable and resilient world”.

    Yet, “the world today is navigating a ‘polycrisis’” of conflict, climate disruption, economic uncertainty and deepening inequality, he said, also pointing to renewed great Power competition, escalating cyberthreats, an off-track 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, surging humanitarian needs and a $4 trillion annual financing gap for developing countries.  “In this context, the role of ECOSOC has never been more relevant and important,” he stated.

    Under ‘Delivering Better’ Motto, President Outlines Priorities for Session

    Noting that his Presidency will be guided by the motto of “Delivering Better”, he underscored that doing so “is not an option — it is an imperative”.  Detailing what that motto means for Nepal, he underlined the need to strengthen multilateralism and rebuild trust, accelerate the 2030 Agenda, ensure effective coordination and coherence within the UN system, strengthen partnerships and ensure implementation and follow-up.  “ECOSOC must evolve from convening dialogue to driving measurable impact,” he urged.

    He also outlined several priorities for his presidency, including transforming agriculture and food systems to strengthen food security and rural resilience; championing digital inclusion and youth entrepreneurship; and advancing climate action and resilience.  On the latter, he said that special focus will be placed on mitigating glacial lake outburst floods and protecting vulnerable communities.  Among other initiatives, he said that his presidency will also give “due priority to promoting the interests of countries in special situations”, as “their unique vulnerabilities demand tailored solutions”.

    “ECOSOC is our place,” he stressed, encouraging all present to “bring forward your vision, your ideas and your transformative solutions”.  He added: “We must send a clear and united message — multilateralism delivers, and it delivers for everyone.”

    Following that statement, the newly elected Vice-Presidents — the representatives of Algeria, Armenia, Dominican Republic and Spain — as well as delegates from China, Australia, Djibouti, Republic of Korea, South Africa and the European Union, took the floor to thank the outgoing Bureau and express support for the incoming one.  Many specifically thanked Mr. Rae for his work over the past year.

    Speakers also acknowledged the challenges ahead and underlined the Council’s important role in addressing them at this critical juncture for development.  An observer for the Major Groups and Other Stakeholders Coordination Mechanism, for her part, underlined the need for civil society to be heard during that endeavour.

    Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs Says Urgent Action, Stronger Cooperation Key to Advance Sustainable Development Goals

    “Through its convening power — across segments, forums and special meetings — the Council has shown its continued relevance,” said Li Junhua, Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs.  Today’s interconnected world demands stronger cooperation to achieve sustainable solutions, he pointed out, calling for “urgent” action to advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as only 35 per cent of targets are currently on track.

    “ECOSOC’s role is central,” he stressed, “to forge consensus, provide policy guidance and mobilize coordination action and follow-up.”  Its eightieth anniversary invites reflection, and upcoming reviews are key opportunities to ensure the realization of its full potential.  He concluded:  “I urge all Member States to continue actively engaging with the Council to advance the implementation of its mandates and the realization of the SDGs.”

    Council Adopts Provisional Agenda, Working Arrangements for Session

    Following that, the Council adopted, without a vote, its provisional agenda (document E/2026/1) and working arrangements (to be issued as document E/2026/L.1) for 2026.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Early-Career Spotlight: From Astrophysics to Applied Artificial Intelligence, Hilary Egan Charts a Creative Path Through Science

    Source: US National Renewable Energy Laboratory

    Welcome to the Materials, Chemical, and Computational Science (MCCS) Early-Career Spotlight, a monthly feature showcasing NREL’s early-career researchers’ interests, motivations, and achievements. This month, features Hilary Egan, who has been a data scientist at NREL since 2020.

    When not in the lab solving AI problems, Hilary Egan enjoys outdoor activities like paddleboarding, climbing, and biking. Photo by Hilary Egan, NREL

    For Hilary Egan, a data scientist at NREL, a career in science was not a straight line but rather one shaped by curiosity, adaptability, and a deep interest in computational problem-solving.

    “I was born in Germany to Canadian parents, and we moved around a lot throughout Canada and the United States,” Egan said. “When it came time for college, I landed at Michigan State University, majoring in physics with minors in math and computer science. I dabbled in experimental physics and worked in a laser lab early on, but honestly, I was a little too clumsy for it. I wanted something that connected all my interests.”

    That desire to connect the dots led Egan to computational physics, where she found her stride.

    “I started working at the high-performance computing center on campus and eventually joined an astronomy lab doing computational research—I absolutely loved it,” she said. That experience inspired her to pursue a Ph.D. in astrophysics and planetary science at the University of Colorado Boulder, with a strong focus on computation.

    From Fellowship to National Laboratory Career

    Egan’s graduate work was supported by the U.S. Department of Energy Computational Science Graduate Fellowship, a pivotal experience that introduced her to the national laboratory system.

    “Through the fellowship, I had the opportunity to intern at NREL. I wanted to challenge myself and get outside my comfort zone, and NREL’s mission really resonated with me,” she said. “I was also curious about artificial intelligence (AI), which was just starting to gain momentum. During my internship, I worked on using AI to predict data center loads and align them with renewable energy availability. It was a great experience, and I was lucky to come back to NREL after finishing my Ph.D. I’ve been here ever since.”

    Today, Egan applies her expertise in AI and computational science to a wide range of energy challenges.

    “My work spans applied AI and computational methods across NREL’s mission space—from enhancing energy efficiency in data centers to using AI to accelerate building retrofits to developing autonomous laboratory systems,” she said.

    This year, she is on detail to the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, where she is helping coordinate an agencywide AI strategy.

    Embracing Growth, in Science and Beyond

    What Egan enjoys most about her work is the constant opportunity to learn.

    “I love getting to be a bit of a scientific dilettante,” she said. “I wasn’t interested in narrowing my focus to one small corner of science for my entire career. At NREL, I get to explore new areas and work with incredibly smart, passionate people who care deeply about the mission. It’s really inspiring.”

    Egan credits strong communication skills as one of the most valuable tools in her professional toolkit.

    “To me, scientific communication means understanding your audience, writing clearly, and giving compelling presentations,” she said. “I’ve developed those skills through everything from taking writing-focused liberal arts courses in college to writing science blogs and even doing community theater. Getting feedback from different audiences is key—it teaches you where the message isn’t landing and why.”

    Outside the lab, Egan brings the same curiosity and enthusiasm to her free time.

    “I’m definitely a serial hobby picker-upper,” she said. “I love climbing, mountain biking, birding, and paddleboarding. I also read constantly, and I’ve spent years playing and coaching competitive ultimate frisbee. Lately, I’ve been sewing and just started pottery classes. I kind of run my free time like a kid at summer camp!”

    From astrophysics to AI-driven energy solutions, Egan exemplifies the spirit of scientific exploration and innovation that drives NREL forward.

    Learn more about NREL’s computational science and AI research.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Highland Council hails the importance of Nigg, as port changes hands

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Wind turbine components at Nigg Bay. Pic Highland Council

    Highland Council has today hailed the importance of the Port of Nigg to the region’s economy after ownership of the facility formally changed hands.

    The multi-sector energy port forms part of the Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport – a partnership of public and private sector organisations, including The Highland Council, which aims to ensure the Cromarty Firth and wider region becomes a major global hub for green energy, delivering transformational benefits to Highland communities and the decarbonisation agenda.

    The Port of Nigg has been sold by Global Energy Group (GEG) to Mitsui Group, a Japanese trading and investment group which has been an investor in GEG since 2012 and which will now drive the next stage of development at Nigg.

    Highland Council praised the contributions made by Roy MacGregor and Global Energy Group, and wished the new owners continued success.

    Highland Council leader Raymond Bremner said: “Roy MacGregor and the Global Energy Group have established an outstanding facility which has been integral to the establishment of the Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport and which has led the way in supporting the country’s energy transition.

    “The legacy they leave is a substantial one – significant inward investment and jobs for the Highlands.

    “We wish the new owners every success as they drive the next stage of development at Nigg, building on the solid foundations which have delivered long-term, secure, skilled employment.”

    Highland Council convener Bill Lobban said: “Green energy continues to offer hope and opportunity for present and future generations to develop a highly skilled career without having to leave the region.

    “Though under new ownership, we have no doubt the port will continue to innovate and grow as Scotland’s energy transition continues apace, and Nigg will continue to be a tribute to all that Roy has achieved to date.”

    31 Jul 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: Mutual funds will be allowed to reclassify.

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Central Bank of Russia –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    From March 1, 2026, mutual investment funds (MIF) will be able to change their status from “qual” to “non-qual”. The conditions necessary for reclassification are spelled out ininstructions of the Bank of Russia.

    This opportunity is of interest primarily to those funds whose investment strategy initially assumed investments in high-risk projects, such as the construction of a shopping center or warehouses. However, subsequently, after the buildings are put into operation, such funds are ready to switch to a more conservative strategy.

    In order to reclassify the fund, the management company will, in particular, need to bring the rules of trust management, as well as the composition and structure of the fund, into line with the requirements for mutual funds for non-qualified investors.

    By the time the documents, including the adjusted rules, are sent to the Bank of Russia for registration, all units must be paid in full, and there must be no restrictions or grounds for termination with respect to the mutual fund itself.

    The change of status will allow qualified investors to exit the project after the completion of its risky stage and attract new shareholders who will be able to receive investment income.

    Preview photo: Cagkan Sayin / Shutterstock / Fotodom

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Sergey Kiriyenko and Dmitry Chernyshenko congratulated the winners of the Big Change contest

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    On July 31, the final stage of the Big Break competition for schoolchildren in grades 5–7 was held at the Artek International Children’s Center. More than 700 students from 67 regions of Russia took part in it.

    First Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office of Russia Sergei Kiriyenko and Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko took part in the closing ceremony of the competition and congratulated the winners.

    Russian President Vladimir Putin sent a welcoming address to the participants of the “Big Change”, in which the head of state, in particular, noted: “The legendary “Artek” is once again becoming a center of attraction for gifted, active, generous with extraordinary ideas children from different regions of our country and foreign countries. At all stages of the competition, you fully demonstrated your talents and abilities, learned to work in a team, found true friends. And today, in a fair fight with worthy opponents, strive to become the leaders of the “Big Change”.

    “You have an opportunity to realize the dream with which you came to the “Big Change” competition. This year our competition is dedicated to a dream, and it, just like the friendship that is born in “Artek”, only becomes stronger over the years. I want to wish that the dream with which you came here, to “Artek”, and which appeared in you here, also becomes stronger. And that you yourself become stronger and can not only dream, but also realize your dream,” said Sergei Kiriyenko.

    Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko also addressed the children: “Dear children! The Big Change competition, launched on the initiative of President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin, is coming to an end. This competition is truly a huge change, because this year it has become part of the national project Youth and Children. It has already united 7 million participants from all over the country. You must understand that you are not just winners here – you have a mission: everything that you have seen and learned here, you must implement in life.”

    300 winners of the Big Change competition among schoolchildren in grades 5–7 will receive the main prize – a Dream Trip on the Big Change train from Moscow to Vladivostok and back.

    “This year we celebrate the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory, and the Year of the Defender of the Fatherland is being held at the initiative of the President of Russia. Servicemen of the special military operation, participants of the presidential program “Time of Heroes” handed over the Eternal Flame, lit for the first time in history at the North Pole, to the youth of Russia in memory of the Heroes of the Great Patriotic War. And now it is here, in “Artek”, at the final of the competition “Big Change”. We want every Artek child to share the feeling of pride in our country and preserve the memory of our heroes,” said the head of Rosmolodezh Grigory Gurov.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko also talked to the finalists of the Big Change competition. Among them are young scientists, media professionals, musicians, winners and prize winners of Olympiads at various levels, and activists of the Movement of the First.

    The Deputy Prime Minister noted that Russia has all the opportunities to realize the potential of children and adolescents, largely thanks to the national project “Youth and Children”.

    The guys told Dmitry Chernyshenko about their projects and ideas, covering topics from an inclusive environment to developments to improve the agricultural sector, and also read a poem of their own composition dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory.

    An interesting example of the use of artificial intelligence was the project of Semyon Veretennikov from the Belgorod region. Developed for his grandfather, a beekeeper, an interactive hive with AI allows remote monitoring of the condition of bees and control of the hive via messenger.

    The Deputy Prime Minister suggested integrating Semyon’s idea into the “Berloga” project – a series of useful video games about the world of bear engineers, which teaches schoolchildren to think like programmers, introduces them to technologies and helps them become participants in next-level technology clubs.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko also spoke with the first “ambassador of peace” of the USSR, Ekaterina Lycheva, who is often called the Soviet Samantha Smith. In the 1980s, she, like Samantha Smith, became a symbol of children’s diplomacy and the desire for peace between the USSR and the USA.

    Ekaterina Lycheva spoke about the international children’s program “The World of BRICS – the World of the Future”, which is currently taking place in Artek. As a result of the program, more than 3,200 Artek children from more than 69 countries will adopt a joint declaration-appeal to all heads of state “For Peace” and invite five children from each country to the International Children’s Center “Artek” in 2026.

    The Deputy Prime Minister also visited the DNA Isolation laboratory, where technology is used to isolate DNA from various living objects for further genetic research.

    The All-Russian competition “Big Change” is the flagship project of the “Movement of the First”. The competition is held with the support of the Federal Agency for Youth Affairs (Rosmolodezh), the Ministry of Education and Science and the Ministry of Science and Higher Education.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Russia plans to open rail service to Laos via China — Russian President V. Putin

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    Moscow, July 31 /Xinhua/ — Given the growing flow of goods to and from Laos, Russia intends to open a railway connection with that country via China, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday following talks with Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith.

    The Russian leader pointed out that trade between Russia and Laos is currently actively developing. “Last year, trade turnover increased by 65 percent, and this year its growth rate was about 20 percent,” V. Putin noted.

    The Lao President is currently on an official visit to Russia. On Wednesday, he met with the chairman of the United Russia party and deputy chairman of the Russian Security Council Dmitry Medvedev. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese Embassy in Kyrgyzstan Holds Reception to Mark 98th Anniversary of Founding of PLA

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    BISHKEK, July 31 /Xinhua/ — The Chinese Embassy in Kyrgyzstan held a reception in Bishkek on July 29 to mark the 98th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).

    More than 400 people took part in the ceremonial event, including embassy diplomats, representatives of military and political circles of Kyrgyzstan, diplomatic missions of various countries, the Chinese diaspora and enterprises with Chinese capital.

    As Liu Weidong, Defense Attaché at the PRC Embassy in Kyrgyzstan, noted in his speech, in recent years, the PLA’s reforms in the defense and military spheres have been continuously deepening, the level of modernization and combat capabilities of the Chinese army have been steadily growing. According to him, under the strategic leadership of the heads of the two states, Chinese-Kyrgyz relations are experiencing the best period in their history, and the ties between the armies of the two countries are continuously developing in a healthy way.

    Liu Weidong stressed that the Chinese side is willing to strengthen exchanges and cooperation with the Kyrgyz side to jointly maintain peace and stability in the region and the world.

    In turn, Kyrgyz Defense Minister Ruslan Mukambetov congratulated the Chinese side on the upcoming holiday. He noted that the military personnel of the two countries maintain long-standing and strong ties that continue to expand and deepen both bilaterally and within the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, based on the principles of mutual trust and equality.

    The reception was held in a friendly and warm atmosphere. The participants of the event expressed their sincere wish that relations between the armies of China and Kyrgyzstan would rise to a new level. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: State Council executive meeting calls for high-quality economic performance in second half of 2025

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    BEIJING, July 31 (Xinhua) — China’s State Council held an executive meeting on Thursday, calling for consolidating and accelerating the momentum of China’s economic recovery and improvement in the second half of 2025.

    The meeting, chaired by State Council Premier Li Qiang, focused on studying and implementing the main ideas outlined in an important speech by General Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee Xi Jinping on the current economic situation and economic work in the second half of the year.

    The meeting emphasized the need for a deep understanding of the CPC Central Committee’s scientific judgment on the economic situation, as well as further strengthening the sense of mission and responsibility in the context of carrying out high-quality economic work in the second half of the year.

    As noted, in implementing the annual development goals and targets, greater efforts should be made to improve the effectiveness of macroeconomic policies, more attention should be paid to stimulating the internal driving forces of economic growth, and development and security should be more effectively coordinated.

    The meeting participants also reviewed and approved a document on the large-scale commercial application of artificial intelligence, gave instructions on the implementation of a policy of subsidizing interest rates on consumer loans for personal purposes and loans for business entities in the service sector, and discussed and fundamentally approved a bill on the protection and improvement of the quality of arable land. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: As World Grapples with Great Peril, Values Enshrined in Helsinki Final Act ‘Remain Our Moral and Strategic Compass’, Secretary-General Anniversary Message Says

    Source: United Nations 4

    SG/SM/22750

    Following is the text of UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ video message for the fiftieth anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act, in Helsinki today: 

    I am pleased to send my warm greetings as you gather to mark the fiftieth anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act.  I commend the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) Chair, Finland, for its leadership in convening this anniversary event.

    Half a century ago, the Helsinki Final Act charted a bold and visionary course for peace — rooted in dialogue, grounded in international law, and anchored in the fundamental rights and freedoms of all people.

    This year also marks the eightieth anniversary of the UN Charter.  The principles of our Charter and OSCE are a shared foundation for peace and cooperation.

    But today those principles are under grave strain.  War continues to rage in the European continent. Trust between States is fraying.  Human rights are under assault.  Democratic space is shrinking.  And disinformation is fuelling division and fear.  We are witnessing a dangerous drift away from commitments that have safeguarded peace for generations.

    Yet, in this moment of peril, the values enshrined in the UN Charter and echoed in the Helsinki Final Act — sovereignty, territorial integrity and peaceful coexistence — remain our moral and strategic compass.

    The role of the OSCE as a platform for dialogue and a guardian of these principles is more vital than ever.  The United Nations stands firmly with the OSCE in defending shared values:  dialogue over division, cooperation over confrontation and dignity for all.

    Let us recommit to the spirit of Helsinki.  By strengthening regional partnerships to renew multilateralism. By principled leadership to uphold international law.  And by forging unity of purpose to build a future of mutual respect, resilience and shared prosperity.

    Let us honour this milestone by renewing our commitment to a world anchored in peace, justice, and human rights.  Thank you — and my very best wishes for a successful meeting.

    For information media. Not an official record.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Resilience and improvement of the EU’s electricity grid infrastructure – drawing lessons from the Iberian Peninsula blackouts – E-003018/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-003018/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Georg Mayer (PfE), Harald Vilimsky (PfE)

    The large-scale blackouts on the Iberian Peninsula in spring 2025 have once again highlighted the fragile and vulnerable nature of Europe’s energy supply. These events highlight fundamental shortcomings in the resilience of the electricity grid infrastructure and raise key questions about the feasibility of the EU’s ambitious climate and energy targets.

    • 1.Does the Commission plan to give Member States more room for manoeuvre in decision-making and responsibility in securing and protecting critical energy infrastructure in the future, rather than further expanding centralised requirements that restrict national decision-making powers?
    • 2.Given the sharp increase in electricity price volatility and the resulting and increasingly worrying burden on consumers, SMEs and industry, how does the Commission intend to ensure that the push to expand renewable energies does not continue to lead to unstable prices and grids that jeopardise competitiveness and security of supply in Europe?
    • 3.In light of the recurring threats to the security of supply and the ongoing energy crisis, is the Commission prepared to subject the targets of the Green Deal and of the ‘Fit for 55’ package to a substantive review in order to minimise risks to security of supply and to competitiveness, as well as the burden on European households, rather than rigidly sticking to ideologically driven targets?

    Submitted: 21.7.2025

    Last updated: 31 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Delegated act pending under Regulation (EU) 2019/787 – E-003010/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-003010/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Carmen Crespo Díaz (PPE)

    Given that the Commission has already adopted a report in favour of extending the delegation of power and given that the period of seven years from the entry into force of Regulation (EU) 2019/787 is about to expire, it is essential that swift action is taken in order not to miss the opportunity to adopt the corresponding delegated act.

    The sector has raised concerns about the lack of concrete progress and the matter has not yet been referred by the Commission to Parliament, nor has it been considered by the coordinators in the Committee on Agriculture.

    In light of the above,

    When does the Commission intend to refer this matter to Parliament so that the dossier can move forward before the expiry of the deadline provided for in Article 51 of Regulation (EU) 2019/787?

    Submitted: 18.7.2025

    Last updated: 31 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – German budget deficit – E-002965/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002965/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Moritz Körner (Renew)

    Germany recently reformed its national debt brake. The reform comprises three key elements. The federal states will have their own net borrowing capacity of 0.35 % of GDP per year. The Federal Government adopted a new special investment fund for infrastructure and climate protection worth EUR 500 billion, in addition to the existing special defence fund of EUR 100 billion. Defence and security expenditure will in future be explicitly exempted from the debt brake. According to the Federal Ministry of Defence, the following defence budgets are planned for the coming years:

    2025: EUR 62.43 billion

    2026: EUR 82.69 billion

    2027: EUR 93.35 billion

    2028: EUR 136.48 billion

    2029: EUR 152.83 billion

    • 1.What annual government deficits does the Commission expect for Germany from 2025 to 2029, as a percentage of GDP and in absolute terms?
    • 2.How high can Germany’s annual deficit be between 2025 and 2029 if it applies the national escape clause in full?
    • 3.In such a case, what would the maximum annual expenditure volume available to Germany be without infringing the rules of the Stability and Growth Pact?

    Submitted: 17.7.2025

    Last updated: 31 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Impacts of SAFE – E-002960/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002960/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Moritz Körner (Renew)

    According to the Commission, what positive military or defence implications will the EU’s Security Action for Europe (SAFE) financial instrument have for Germany by 2030?

    Submitted: 17.7.2025

    Last updated: 31 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –