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Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warnock, Ossoff Deliver Upgrades for Johns Creek’s Bridges and Sidewalks

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    Johns Creek, GA — Today, U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and Jon Ossoff (D-GA) announced new federal funding to upgrade bridges and sidewalks in Johns Creek.

    Senators Warnock and Ossoff secured a $12.8 million investment through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant program to help Johns Creek replace two bridges, build new sidewalks and a multi-use trail, and upgrade drainage systems on Old Alabama Road over the Chattahoochee Tributary.

    “Smart investments in our communities can bridge any political divide. This infrastructure funding will revitalize key bridges in the Johns Creek community and continue to keep our friends, families, and neighbors connected. I am proud to have worked with Senator Ossoff to get it done and will continue to champion federal investments in Georgia,” said Senator Reverend Warnock.

    “Johns Creek residents deserve safe bridges and sidewalks, and I am pleased to deliver the funds for these vital quality of life upgrades,” said Senator Ossoff. “It has been a pleasure working with Johns Creek leadership to get this done.”

    “This grant will help us improve safety and connectivity in the City and will benefit quality of life for our community,” said John Bradberry, Mayor of Johns Creek. “I’m grateful to our Georgia Congressional leaders for their support of our selection. Projects like this one help make Johns Creek one of the best places to live in the nation.”

    Senators Warnock and Ossoff continue delivering resources to upgrade Georgia’s infrastructure. In May, the senators delivered more than $13 million in federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to upgrade and help maintain Georgia’s regional airports.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General Announces Members of Independent Scientific Panel on Effects of Nuclear War

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    NEW YORK, 18 July (United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs) — On 17 July, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres announced the appointment of an independent scientific panel of experts tasked with examining the physical effects and societal consequences of a nuclear war on a local, regional and planetary scale in the days, weeks and decades following a nuclear war.

    The panel was established pursuant to General Assembly resolution 79/238, titled “Nuclear War Effects and Scientific Research”, and is mandated to examine “the physical effects and societal consequences” of a nuclear war “on a local, regional and planetary scale, including, inter alia, the climatic, environmental and radiological effects, and their impacts on public health, global socioeconomic systems, agriculture and ecosystems, in the days, weeks and decades following a nuclear war”.

    The panel is tasked with publishing a comprehensive report on these matters, making key conclusions, and identifying areas requiring future research.  The report will be considered by the UN General Assembly at its eighty-second session in 2027.

    The last cross-sectional United Nations study of this kind was undertaken almost four decades ago in 1988 (Study on the Climatic and Other Global Effects of Nuclear War, United Nations publication, Sales No. E.89.IX.1).

    The panel consists of 21 members drawn from a range of scientific fields, including:  nuclear and radiation studies; atmospheric sciences and climate; environment and environmental studies; agriculture, biology and life sciences; public health and medicine; and behavioural and social sciences and applied economics.

    As mandated by resolution 79/238, the Secretary-General selected members of the panel based on “their leading scientific expertise across relevant disciplines, while ensuring impartiality, and equitable geographical and gender balance”.  In selecting the panel, the Secretary-General drew on the expertise and recommendations of relevant agencies from the United Nations system.

    The panel will engage the widest possible range of stakeholders, including international and regional organizations, the International Committee of the Red Cross, civil society, affected communities, and peoples from around the world, in order to understand local, regional and global perspectives on the effects of nuclear war.  Member States, relevant international and regional organizations and others are encouraged to support the panel’s work.

    The independent Scientific Panel on the Effects of Nuclear War will consist of the following 21 members, each participating in their personal capacity:

    Arlene Alves dos Reis, Head, Division of Dosimetry at the Brazilian Nuclear Energy Commission (CNEN);

    Ana María Cetto Kramis, former Deputy Director General, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).  Full research professor at the Physics Institute of the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM).  Founder and current holder of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Chair on Science Diplomacy and Heritage at UNAM;

    Manvendra K. Dubey, Senior Scientist and Fellow, Earth Systems Observations, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL);

    Friederike Renate Friess, Senior Scientist, BOKU University, Department of Landscape, Water and Infrastructure, Institute of Safety and Risk Sciences;

    Abel Gonzalez, Senior Adviser to the Argentina Nuclear Regulatory Authority, Olenum member of the National Academy of Sciences of Buenos Aires, the Argentine Academy of Environmental Sciences, the Argentine Academy of the Seas, and the International Nuclear Energy Academy;

    Md Ahsan Habib, Professor at the Department of Chemistry, University of Dhaka, Fellow, Chinese Academy of Sciences;

    Andrew Haines, Professor of Environmental Change and Public Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), Co-Director World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Centre on Climate Change, Sustainable Development and Health;

    Gi Hoon Hong, former President and Research Professor, Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology;

    Togzhan Kassenova, Senior Fellow, Center for Policy Research, University at Albany, State University of New York, former member of the Secretary-General’s Advisory Board on Disarmament Matters (ABDM);

    Ausrele Kesminiene-Suonio, Senior Visiting Scientist, Environment and Lifestyle Epidemiology Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC/WHO), former head of the Lithuanian Chernobyl Medical Centre;

    Peter Klimek, Director of the Supply Chain Intelligence Institute, Austria, Associate Professor, Section for Science of Complex Systems, Medical University of Vienna;

    Karina Meredith, Director of Environment Research and Technology at Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO), Adjunct Professor in the Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences school at University of New South Wales;

    Thobela Nkukwana, Senior Lecturer, University of Pretoria, Sub-editor for the South African Journal of Animal Sciences, Editorial Board member and Sub-editor of Welwitschia International Journal of Agricultural Sciences;

    Sébastien Philippe, research scholar at the Princeton University Program on Science and Global Security, member of the Scientific Advisory Group of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons;

    Laura Revell, Associate Professor in Atmospheric Chemistry at the University of Canterbury, member of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) Environmental Effects Assessment Panel (EEAP) panel;

    Neil Rowan, Professor, Faculty of Science and Technological Health, University of the Shannon, Adjunct Professor to the School of Medicine, Nursing and Biomedical Science at the University of Galway;

    Rabia Sa’id, Professor of atmospheric and space-weather physics and a researcher at Bayero University Kano, Co-founder of Nigeria’s Association of Women Physicists;

    Georgiy L. Stenchikov, Professor Emeritus at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Professor of Earth Sciences, Division of Physical Sciences and Engineering, Earth Sciences and Engineering Program, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology;

    Masao Tomonaga, Emeritus Director, Atomic Bomb Hospital, former Director of the Japanese Red Cross Nagasaki Atomic Bomb (Genbaku) Hospital, President of Nagasaki Prefecture Hibakusha Association and current President of IPPNW Nagasaki Branch.  A hibakusha from Nagasaki;

    Hüseyin Yalçinkaya, Anakara University Institute of Medical Sciences, Department of Animal Nutrition and Nutritional Diseases, Veterinary Officer at the Turkish Directorate General for Food and Control/Department of Border Control for Animal and Animal Products; and

    Zhao Wuwen, Professor at the Center for Strategic Studies, China Academy of Engineering Physics.

    Questions regarding the panel can be addressed to:  nweffectspanel@un.org.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Georgia’s ruling party condemns Western pressure and stresses country’s independent foreign policy

    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

    TBILISI, July 18 (Xinhua) — Georgian Dream Party Chairman and Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Friday made an official statement on behalf of the party’s political council, expressing concern over the hostile campaign against Georgia.

    He stressed that unfair treatment of the Georgian government was noted after the start of the war in Ukraine. The reason for this, according to the authors of the statement, was the decision of the Georgian government not to interfere in the war and not to open a second front against Russia.

    The statement said that because of this, the United States terminated the strategic partnership agreement signed with Georgia and imposed sanctions against the founder and honorary chairman of the Georgian Dream party, Bidzina Ivanishvili, on charges of ties to Russia.

    As stated in the document, in recent weeks the European Parliament has adopted a number of resolutions condemning Georgia’s domestic policies, and measures to suspend the visa-free regime and trade agreements with the European Union are also being discussed.

    I. Kobakhidze called these actions a “hostile campaign” aimed at supporting the opposition and changing power in the country.

    The Georgian Dream party reiterated its commitment to peace, stability and the protection of the country’s sovereignty. –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.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: German Chancellor Calls Situation in Gaza ‘Unacceptable’

    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

    BERLIN, July 18 (Xinhua) — German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Friday called the current situation in the Gaza Strip “unacceptable,” calling for an immediate ceasefire and comprehensive humanitarian aid to the local population.

    Speaking at a press conference in Berlin, F. Merz said that Germany, together with its partners, is working in close coordination to resolve the conflict in Gaza.

    The Chancellor stressed that Germany clearly states its position on certain developments in Israel, including the policy of building settlements in the West Bank, which “does not find approval in the German government.”

    According to a statement from the German federal government, Merz expressed hope for a speedy ceasefire in the Gaza Strip in a telephone conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday.

    F. Merz said that urgently needed humanitarian aid must be delivered to the residents of the Gaza Strip in a safe and humane manner.

    According to the statement, the German Chancellor also stressed that there should be no steps towards annexation of the West Bank. –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.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: G20 finance ministers and central bank governors agree to strengthen multilateralism

    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

    JOHANNESBURG, July 18 (Xinhua) — A two-day meeting of G20 finance ministers and central bank governors concluded in Durban, South Africa on Friday, with participants agreeing to strengthen multilateral cooperation to address existing and emerging risks to the global economy, according to a joint communique issued after the meeting.

    According to the communique, G20 officials discussed global challenges such as conflicts, geopolitical and trade tensions, disruptions to global supply chains, high debt levels, and frequent extreme weather events and natural disasters.

    The document notes that the officials reaffirmed their commitment to global economic cooperation despite difficult negotiations. “It was not easy in the current environment,” said South African Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana, commenting on the negotiations that allowed the ministers to reach an agreement and sign the communiqué.

    “There was a renewed commitment to strengthen multilateral cooperation to address existing and emerging risks to the global economy and to recognise the importance of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) in advancing trade issues and agreed rules in the WTO,” the South African Treasury Department said in a statement.

    The statement said the G20 ministers and central bankers agreed that the WTO requires comprehensive reform to improve all its functions through innovative approaches to meet and respond to modern realities. They noted that developing countries face high levels of debt and debt servicing costs that need to be addressed.

    “The G20 members expressed their commitment to addressing the debt vulnerability of low- and middle-income countries and reaffirmed their intention to strengthen the implementation of the G20 Common Principles. They also stressed the need to enhance the role and voice of developing countries in decision-making in multilateral development banks and other international financial and economic institutions,” the South African Treasury said in a statement. –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.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Russia withdrew from military-technical cooperation agreement with Germany

    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 18 /Xinhua/ — Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin has ordered the termination of an agreement with the German government on military-technical cooperation.

    The government order of July 15, 2025 was posted on the official legal information portal. The Russian Foreign Ministry was instructed to notify the German side of the decision taken.

    On June 19, the Russian Foreign Ministry announced that Moscow intends to withdraw from the military cooperation agreement with Berlin. It is specified that in the current situation, given the anti-Russian attitude of Germany, the agreement has lost its meaning and practical significance.

    The agreement was signed in 1996. Moscow and Berlin then agreed that they would promote military-technical cooperation between Russian and German enterprises, organizations and departments. –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.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: UK joins new EU sanctions against Russia

    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

    LONDON, July 18 (Xinhua) — Britain on Friday joined the European Union’s new round of sanctions against Russia.

    The UK and the EU announced on Friday a cut in the crude oil price ceiling from $60 to $47.60 per barrel, which would “directly hit Russia’s oil export revenues,” the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office said in a statement.

    The statement added that the UK and the EU were “acting in full coordination” to increase economic pressure on Russia.

    On Friday, the European Union approved a new package of sanctions against Russia, including a provision to lower the price ceiling for Russian oil supplied to third countries, as well as measures to ensure that the Nord Stream 1 and Nord Stream 2 gas pipelines in the Baltic Sea cannot resume operation.

    On the same day, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko stated that Russia does not rule out retaliatory measures after analyzing the 18th package of EU sanctions.

    “Of course, we will analyze their impact on our economy. If necessary, we will take measures that would ensure our interests. And some countermeasures are also possible,” the diplomat told the TASS news agency. -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.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese authorities have promised to take measures to regulate the NEV market

    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 18 (Xinhua) — Chinese authorities on Friday held a meeting with representatives of the new energy vehicle (NEV) industry to regulate market competition in the sector.

    The meeting was hosted by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of China, the National Development and Reform Commission and the State Administration for Market Regulation. Participants called for efforts to promote legal, fair, honest, reasonable and orderly competition in the NEV sector.

    A statement released following the event said authorities would advance work on monitoring product prices, supervising and checking product uniformity, and reducing payment terms for suppliers.

    The authorities also promised to speed up the implementation of standards on NEV energy consumption limits and battery reuse safety, and to establish a mechanism for exchanges and consultations with industry enterprises to actively listen to the problems, suggestions, requests and appeals of NEV manufacturers. –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.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Armenian National Extradited to the United States Faces Federal Charges for Ransomware Extortion Conspiracy

    Source: US FBI

    PORTLAND, Ore.—An Armenian national extradited from Ukraine to the United States faces federal charges for his role in Ryuk ransomware attacks and extortion conspiracy targeting companies throughout the United States, including a technology company operating in Oregon.

    Karen Serobovich Vardanyan, 33, an Armenian national, has been charged with conspiracy, fraud in connection with computers, and extortion in connection with computers. Vardanyan was extradited from Ukraine to the United States on June 18, 2025.

    Levon Georgiyovych Avetisyan, 45, an Armenian national, has been charged with conspiracy, fraud in connection with computers, and extortion in connection with computers. Avetisyan is the subject of a United States extradition request in France. 

    Oleg Nikolayevich Lyulyava, 53, and Andrii Leonydovich Prykhodchenko, 53, both Ukrainian nationals, have been charged with conspiracy, fraud in connection with computers, and extortion in connection with computers. Lyulyava and Prykhodchenko are not in custody.

    According to court documents, between March 2019 and September 2020, Vardanyan and co-conspirators are alleged to have illegally accessed computer networks of victim companies to deploy Ryuk ransomware on hundreds of compromised servers and workstations. Ryuk ransomware is a type of malicious software designed to encrypt data on a victim’s computer or network and prevents the victim from accessing the encrypted files until a ransom is paid.

    Ryuk has been used to target thousands of victims worldwide across a variety of sectors, including private industry, state and local municipalities, local school districts, critical infrastructure, and hospitals and other healthcare services and providers. Ryuk attacks have severely disrupted these entities’ abilities to function by restricting access to data and impacting communications.

    As part of the scheme, ransom payments were extorted from victim companies in exchange for decryption keys to regain access to their data. A ransom note was placed on the computer systems demanding ransom payments in Bitcoin, a form of cryptocurrency, and provided an email address that victims could use to communicate with the cybercriminals. Vardanyan and co-conspirators are alleged to have received approximately 1,610 bitcoins in ransom payments from the victim companies, which was valued at over $15 million at the time of payment.

    Vardanyan made his first appearance in federal court June 20, 2025, before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. He was arraigned, pleaded not guilty, and ordered detained pending a seven-day jury trial scheduled to begin on August 26, 2025.

    If convicted, Vardanyan faces a maximum sentence of five years in federal prison, three years’ supervised release, and a fine of $250,000 for each count.

    The case is being investigated by the FBI. It is being prosecuted by Katherine A. Rykken, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

    The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance in securing Vardanyan’s arrest and extradition from Ukraine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office thanks the Ukrainian authorities for their assistance in this matter.

    An indictment is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Members call for reinvigorated work on technology transfer, elect new Chair

    Source: WTO

    Headline: Members call for reinvigorated work on technology transfer, elect new Chair

    Members welcomed the election of Ambassador Eheth, who succeeded Ambassador Raimondas Ališauskas of Lithuania, and expressed appreciation for the outgoing Chair’s leadership over the past year in advancing the Group’s work.
    In his opening remarks, Ambassador Eheth underscored the continued relevance and growing importance of the Group’s mandate. He noted that technology transfer is vital for “strengthening productive capacity, upgrading infrastructure, and building resilience,”. He also highlighted its role in “supporting structural transformation, responding to environmental challenges, and ensuring that the rapid deployment of artificial intelligence and its applications in trade benefit all and do not further widen the gap between members at different stages of development.”
    In a discussion initiated by India, members exchanged views on how to advance work on technology transfer and build momentum towards the 14th Ministerial Conference (MC14), to be held in Yaoundé, Cameroon, in March 2026.
    Ambassador Eheth encouraged members to “continue sharing national experiences on how trade has facilitated technology transfer and supported development”. He reaffirmed the value of the practice –  introduced by his predecessor – of hearing from chairs of other WTO bodies. This, he noted, “enriches the Group’s work by illustrating the cross-cutting nature of technology transfer and its relevance across the WTO’s agenda.”
    Looking ahead, the Chair announced his intention to hold informal consultations in September to hear members’ views on how best to advance the Group’s work. “I am committed to helping advance not only the mandate of this Group, but also the broader objectives of the Organization as set out in the preamble of the Marrakesh Agreement establishing the WTO: raising standards of living, ensuring steadily growing real income, and supporting sustainable development in a manner consistent with the needs and aspirations of all members,” he said.
    The next formal meeting of the working group is scheduled for November 2025.

    Share

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Carter Brings Jobs, Opportunities to GA-01 Through Key Defense Appropriations Wins

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Earl L Buddy Carter (GA-01)

    Headline: Carter Brings Jobs, Opportunities to GA-01 Through Key Defense Appropriations Wins

    Carter Brings Jobs, Opportunities to GA-01 Through Key Defense Appropriations Wins

    Washington, July 18, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) this week secured wins for Georgia’s First Congressional District (GA-01) in the Department of Defense Appropriations Act of 2025, investing in key improvements for our nation’s defense readiness and strengthening the local economy. 

    “When GA-01’s military and economy are strong, the entire region benefits. I am proud to have brought critical funding home for our district, ensuring our bases remain among the best and most prepared in the nation while also supplying jobs and opportunities for servicemembers and civilians alike. With these funds, we will cement our district’s leadership in providing for our nation’s defense,” said Rep. Carter.                    

    Combined, these funds will benefit the GA-01 by providing jobs, stimulating the economy by supporting local businesses, and strengthening our military operations. 

    Specifically, this funding included: 

    • $474 million for the Compass Call Aircraft, procured through Gulfstream; 
    • Full funding for two Virginia-class submarines at Kings Bay Naval Base; 
    • Full funding for one Columbia-class submarine at Kings Bay Naval Base; and, 
    • $10 million for Infantry Support Weapons, procured through Daniel Defense.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA-Derived Textiles are Touring France by Bike

    Source: NASA

    During the Tour de France, athletes have to maintain a constant speed while bike riding for dozens of miles through cold rains and summer heat. These cyclists need gear that adapts to the different environments they encounter. One company is using a material with NASA origins to ensure these athletes stay comfortable while taking their grand tours.
    Phase-change materials use basic properties of matter to maintain a steady temperature. When a substance melts from a solid to a liquid, the material absorbs heat, and when it becomes solid again, it releases that heat. In the 1980s, Triangle Research Corporation received a NASA Small Business Innovation Research award to explore how phase-change materials could be incorporated into textiles to control temperatures in spacesuit gloves. By placing phase-change materials in small capsules woven throughout a textile, these temperature-regulating properties can be tuned to the comfort of the human body. While these textiles weren’t incorporated into any gloves flown on NASA missions, they formed the basis for a new product, sold under the name Outlast.
    Outlast has since become one of the most widely distributed temperature-regulating fabrics, found in products such as bedding, loungewear, and office chairs. It has seen especially extensive use in activewear, ranging from jogging clothes to professional sports gear. 
    Founded in 2001 and based in Fréjus, France, the company Ekoï makes clothing and accessories for cyclists, particularly those who bike competitively. The company first encountered Outlast at the Performance Days fabric trade fair in Munich, Germany, and was impressed with its capabilities as well as its NASA heritage.
    “When you say NASA, it’s always impressive.” said Celine Milan, director of textiles at Ekoï. “At the beginning we were even saying in here in our offices, ‘Wow, this technology was developed by NASA.’ It’s on another level.”
    Ekoi’s Outlast line officially launched in July 2022, during that year’s Tour de France. Over the course of that race, the company found it improved cyclists’ performance in the event’s mountain stages, where elevation changes mean wide swings in temperature. It also improved athletes’ aerodynamics, as their jerseys could stay closed in warmer environments, rather than opening them to let in wind.
    Today, Ekoï sells several products that incorporate Outlast materials, including jerseys, gloves, and socks. These products are internationally known for their NASA heritage. Whether engineering for astronaut’s comfort in space or competitive athletes, NASA aims for excellence. 
    Learn more about NASA’s Spinoff Technologies: https://spinoff.nasa.gov/

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: What You Need to Know About NASA’s SpaceX Crew-11 Mission

    Source: NASA

    Four crew members are preparing to launch to the International Space Station as part of NASA’s SpaceX Crew-11 mission to perform research, technology demonstrations, and maintenance activities aboard the orbiting laboratory.
    During the mission, Crew-11 also will contribute to NASA’s Artemis campaign by simulating Moon landing scenarios that astronauts may encounter near the lunar South Pole, showing how the space station helps prepare crews for deep space human exploration. The simulations will be performed before, during, and after their mission using handheld controllers and multiple screens to identify how changes in gravity affect spatial awareness and astronauts’ ability to pilot spacecraft, like a lunar lander.
    NASA astronauts Zena Cardman and Mike Fincke, JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) astronaut Kimiya Yui, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Oleg Platonov will lift off no earlier than 12:09 p.m. EDT on Thursday, July 31, from Launch Complex 39A at the agency’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on a long-duration mission. The cadre will fly aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, named Endeavour, which previously flew NASA’s SpaceX Demo-2, Crew-2, Crew-6, and Crew-8 missions, as well as private astronaut mission Axiom Mission 1.
    The flight is the 11th crew rotation mission with SpaceX to the space station as part of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program. Overall, the Crew-11 mission is the 16th crewed Dragon flight to the space station, including Demo-2 in 2020 and 11 operational crew rotations for NASA, as well as four private astronaut missions.
    As support teams progress through Dragon preflight milestones for Crew-11, they also are preparing a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket booster for its third flight. Once all rocket and spacecraft system checkouts are complete and all components are certified for flight, teams will mate Dragon to Falcon 9 in SpaceX’s hangar at the launch site. The integrated spacecraft and rocket will then be rolled to the pad and raised vertically for the crew’s dry dress rehearsal and an integrated static fire test before launch.

    Selected as a NASA astronaut in 2017, Cardman will conduct her first spaceflight. The Williamsburg, Virginia, native holds a bachelor’s degree in biology and a master’s degree in marine sciences from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. At the time of selection, she was pursuing a doctorate in geosciences. Cardman’s geobiology and geochemical cycling research focused on subsurface environments, from caves to deep sea sediments. Since completing initial training, Cardman has supported real-time station operations and lunar surface exploration planning. Follow @zenanaut on X and @zenanaut on Instagram.
    This mission will be Fincke’s fourth trip to the space station, having logged 382 days in space and nine spacewalks during Expedition 9 in 2004, Expedition 18 in 2008, and STS-134 in 2011, the final flight of space shuttle Endeavour. Throughout the past decade, Fincke has applied his expertise to NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, advancing the development and testing of Dragon and Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft toward operational certification. The Emsworth, Pennsylvania, native is a graduate of the United States Air Force Test Pilot School and holds bachelors’ degrees from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, in both aeronautics and astronautics, as well as Earth, atmospheric, and planetary sciences. He also has a master’s degree in aeronautics and astronautics from Stanford University in California. Fincke is a retired U.S. Air Force colonel with more than 2,000 flight hours in over 30 different aircraft. Follow @AstroIronMike on X and Instagram.
    With 142 days in space, this mission will be Yui’s second trip to the space station. After his selection as a JAXA astronaut in 2009, Yui flew as a flight engineer for Expedition 44/45 and became the first Japanese astronaut to capture JAXA’s H-II Transfer Vehicle using the station’s robotic arm. In addition to constructing a new experimental environment aboard Kibo, he conducted a total of 21 experiments for JAXA. In November 2016, Yui was assigned as chief of the JAXA Astronaut Group. He graduated from the School of Science and Engineering at the National Defense Academy of Japan in 1992. He later joined the Air Self-Defense Force at the Japan Defense Agency (currently the Ministry of Defense). In 2008, Yui joined the Air Staff Office at the Ministry of Defense as a lieutenant colonel. Follow @astro_kimiya on X.
    The mission will be Platonov’s first spaceflight. Before his selection as a cosmonaut in 2018, Platonov earned a degree in engineering from Krasnodar Air Force Academy in aircraft operations and air traffic management. He also earned a bachelor’s degree in state and municipal management in 2016 from the Far Eastern Federal University in Vladivostok, Russia. Assigned as a test cosmonaut in 2021, he has experience in piloting aircraft, zero gravity training, scuba diving, and wilderness survival.

    Following liftoff, Falcon 9 will accelerate Dragon to approximately 17,500 mph. Once in orbit, the crew, NASA, and SpaceX mission control will monitor a series of maneuvers that will guide Dragon to the forward-facing port of the station’s Harmony module. The spacecraft is designed to dock autonomously, but the crew can pilot it manually, if necessary.
    After docking, Crew-11 will be welcomed aboard the station by the seven-member Expedition 73 crew, before conducting a short handover period on research and maintenance activities with the departing Crew-10 crew members. Then, NASA astronauts Anne McClain, Nichole Ayers, JAXA astronaut Takuya Onishi, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Kirill Peskov will undock from the space station and return to Earth. Ahead of Crew-10’s return, mission teams will review weather conditions at the splashdown sites off the coast of California before departure from the station.
    Cardman, Fincke, and Yui will conduct scientific research to prepare for human exploration beyond low Earth orbit and benefit humanity on Earth. Participating crew members will simulate lunar landings, test strategies to safeguard vision, and advance other human spaceflight studies led by NASA’s Human Research Program. The crew also will study plant cell division and microgravity’s effects on bacteria-killing viruses, as well as perform experiments to produce a higher volume of human stem cells and generate on-demand nutrients.
    While aboard the orbiting laboratory, Crew-11 will welcome a Soyuz spacecraft in November with three new crew members, including NASA astronaut Chris Williams.  They also will bid farewell to the Soyuz carrying NASA astronaut Jonny Kim. The crew also is expected to see the arrival of the Dragon, Roscosmos Progress spacecraft, and Northrop Grumman’s Cygnus spacecraft to resupply the station.
    NASA’s SpaceX Crew-11 mission will be aboard the International Space Station on Nov. 2, when the orbiting laboratory surpasses 25 years of a continuous human presence. Since the first crew expedition arrived, the space station has enabled more than 4,000 groundbreaking experiments in the unique microgravity environment, while becoming a springboard for building a low Earth orbit economy and preparing for NASA’s future exploration of the Moon and Mars.
    Learn more about the space station, its research, and crew, at:
    https://www.nasa.gov/station

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Tatyana Golikova visited the Kaluga region on a working trip.

    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 and Kaluga Region Governor Vladislav Shapsha opened a children’s and adult polyclinic in Kaluga. The new facility is designed for 650 visits per shift, its area is 17.5 thousand square meters.

    “I sincerely congratulate you with all my heart, because this is a truly significant event: here, in the Pravoberezhny microdistrict of Kaluga, a large children’s and adult clinic is opening. This is another result of the national project “Healthcare”, which was announced by our President in 2018, completed in 2024, but we continue this work, because we understand perfectly well that the availability and quality of medical care is an absolute priority of our state, because there is nothing more precious than the health of citizens. And today’s clinic, both adult and children’s, and the clinic that provides assistance to pregnant women, is a very important contribution to the development of the Kaluga region. Because a healthy person is a capable person who creates the wealth of the Kaluga land,” said Tatyana Golikova.

    The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that the national goal of preserving the population, strengthening health, improving well-being and supporting families is key. In total, 11 thousand healthcare facilities were created within the framework of the national project “Healthcare”. In the Kaluga Region, 236 primary care facilities were created and renovated. Since January 1, 2025, the development of the healthcare system continues within the framework of the new national projects “Long and Active Life” and “Family”.

    “Today, primary healthcare is the first contact with the population, with the patient. Every year, more than 1 billion citizen requests are registered at the primary level. But the task of the polyclinic is not just to cure existing diseases. Its main goal is prevention, aimed at early detection of diseases or risks of their development, timely treatment and monitoring of patients’ health,” the Deputy Prime Minister emphasized.

    The children’s and adult polyclinic was built in the Pravoberezh’ye microdistrict in Kaluga. According to the region’s governor Vladislav Shapsha, more than 70 thousand people live in this part of the city today.

    The new facility houses three outpatient clinics with modern diagnostic facilities: adult and children’s outpatient clinics, as well as a women’s consultation center. The total cost of construction was 1.9 billion rubles. More than 8 thousand units of medical equipment and medical products were purchased. Including heavy equipment: magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, X-ray machine, fluorograph, mammograph. Subsidies from the federal and regional budgets were allocated for these purposes – 1.08 billion rubles and 0.5 billion rubles, respectively.

    The Deputy Prime Minister inspected the computed tomography rooms, blood collection rooms, specialist doctors’ rooms, gastroscopy rooms, children’s physiotherapy and rehabilitation departments, women’s consultation rooms, a pharmacy – a branch of the Kalugafarmatsiya State Enterprise and a number of other premises.

    The Deputy Prime Minister assessed the work of the modern electronic registry, which has been in operation at Kaluga City Hospital No. 5 since December last year as part of the pilot project “New Registry”. Some of the duties of the medical staff were taken over by the employees of the multifunctional center. This allows optimizing the work of the medical institution, creating more comfortable conditions for patients, and minimizing queues.

    The clinic also has conditions for students of the medical faculty of the Kaluga State University named after K.E. Tsiolkovsky – an office of the Department of Internal Medicine, where future doctors will master practical skills and work with mentors.

    As part of her working visit, Tatyana Golikova also held an all-Russian conference entitled “Personnel for Modern Healthcare. Strategy for Reducing the Personnel Shortage.”

    “Today, there are 558 thousand doctors and 1.2 million mid-level medical workers working in the healthcare system. For a very long time, we have been observing a steady trend towards a decrease in the number of personnel in the healthcare system, but over the last two years, the industry has nevertheless begun to grow, and we have seen positive changes over the last two years by more than 16 thousand doctors,” noted Tatyana Golikova.

    Thanks to the activities of the national project “Healthcare”, by the end of 2024, the staffing of paramedic stations and outpatient organizations approached 95%. The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that, on the instructions of the head of state, the federal project “Medical Personnel” was launched this year as part of the national project “Long and Active Life”. Based on its results, by 2030 it is necessary to increase the provision of the population with doctors from 42.0 to 43.5 per 10 thousand people, and with mid-level medical personnel – from 83.3 to 85.1 per 10 thousand people.

    The federal project includes measures to improve the qualifications and accelerate professional retraining of medical workers, increase the number of students in universities and colleges, create regional personnel centers and develop regional personnel programs. Regions need to develop social support measures in the form of providing housing for medical workers, the Deputy Prime Minister emphasized.

    The conference was attended by Governor Vladislav Shapsha, Chairman of the Committee of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly on Budget and Financial Markets Anatoly Artamonov, heads of medical organizations of Kaluga and a number of other regions, and representatives of all Russian regions via videoconference.

    The heads of relevant departments from the Kaluga, Irkutsk and Tyumen regions shared their successful experience in strengthening the human resources potential of healthcare. They also discussed improving the system of university training of qualified specialists using the example of the Ryazan State Medical University named after Academician I.P. Pavlov.

    In addition, as part of a working trip to the Kaluga Region, a meeting with Governor Vladislav Shapsha took place, as well as a visit to the K.E. Tsiolkovsky State Museum of the History of Cosmonautics.

    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: Dmitry Chernyshenko: the federal project “Five Seas and Lake Baikal” was supplemented by the project “Balaklava Bay” in Sevastopol

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Ministry of Economic Development (Russia) – Ministry of Economic Development (Russia) –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    A meeting of the subcommittee on the implementation of tourism investment projects of federal significance of the Government Commission for the Development of Tourism in the Russian Federation was held under the chairmanship of Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    The event was also attended by Deputy Minister of Economic Development of Russia Dmitry Vakhrukov, as well as representatives of the Ministry of Construction, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Energy, Rosreestr, JSC Corporation Tourism. RF and others.

    The meeting discussed the organization of work on the implementation of the project of federal year-round resorts “Five Seas and Lake Baikal”.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko emphasized that thanks to the implementation of the project, by 2030 an additional 10 million tourists will be able to vacation per year.

    “On the instructions of President Vladimir Putin, within the framework of the national project “Tourism and Hospitality”, we are working on the federal project “Five Seas and Lake Baikal” with a total funding volume for all projects until 2030 of 103 billion rubles. I would like to note that today we need to prioritize the objects, we will establish the order of projects, especially since there are instructions from the President and a number of initiatives to create resorts in other regions. Thus, the federal project “Five Seas and Lake Baikal” was supplemented by the project “Balaklava Bay” in Sevastopol,” the Deputy Prime Minister noted.

    Deputy Minister of Economic Development of Russia Dmitry Vakhrukov added that the implementation of the project of federal year-round resorts “Five Seas and Lake Baikal” will further increase the number of tourist trips around Russia, as well as expand the number of rooms.

    “Systematic work on the implementation of the federal project is carried out in strict accordance with the approved roadmaps. This indicates a high degree of involvement of the subjects and a clear understanding of the tasks. Most projects are being implemented within the planned timeframes. Work is constantly underway to balance the sources of financing the supporting infrastructure, attract and support investors. We are confident that this approach will contribute to the timely implementation of projects,” he said.

    Dmitry Vakhrukov reminded that the construction of resorts should become one of the priority tasks.

    Governor of Saint Petersburg Alexander Beglov called the Saint Petersburg Marina project significant for the city. To implement it, a structure for financing the construction of road facilities and, to a significant extent, engineering infrastructure has been defined to date. The plans include continuing work on including measures to create road infrastructure and street and road networks in the Infrastructure for Life.

    Deputy Governor of Zaporizhia Region Alexander Zinchenko presented a report on the Primorsk project, Governor of Irkutsk Region Igor Kobzev spoke about the Gates of Baikal and Baikal Sloboda, Deputy Chairman of the Government of the Republic of Buryatia Vyacheslav Sukhorukov – about Magic Baikal. Acting Minister of Resorts, Tourism and Olympic Heritage of Krasnodar Region Mikhail Zaritsky reported on the implementation of the New Anapa project, and Deputy Governor of Sevastopol Maria Litovko presented the Balaklava Bay project in Sevastopol.

    Information was also presented on the projects “Golden Sands” in the Republic of Crimea, “Caspian Coastal Cluster” in the Republic of Dagestan, “Primorye” in Primorsky Krai.

    In conclusion, Dmitry Chernyshenko called on the regions to more actively interact with federal ministries and departments in order to more quickly resolve issues related to project implementation.

    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 Europe: Missions – 21-23 July: INTA Delegation to Brazil – 21-07-2025 – Committee on International Trade

    Source: European Parliament

    A delegation of 10 Members of the Committee on International Trade (INTA) will travel to Brazil from 21 to 23 July and will visit Brasília and São Paulo.

    The mission will focus on advancing dialogue on the EU-Mercosur Partnership Agreement and strengthening trade relations between the European Union and Brazil.

    During the visit, Members of the European Parliament will engage with Brazilian ministers, and officials as well as representatives from industry, civil society and think tanks to discuss the political, economic and environmental dimensions of the agreement.

    The delegation is lead by LANGE Bernd, Chair of the INTA, S&D (Germany) and also includes:

    SOUSA SILVA Hélder, Chair of the Delegation for relations with the Federative Republic of Brazil, EPP (Portugal)

    REGNER Evelyn, Chair of the Delegation for relations with Mercosur, S&D (Austria)

    WARBORN Jörgen, EPP (Sweden)

    ZOVKO Željana, EPP (Croatia)

    ASSIS Francisco, S&D (Portugal)

    BULLMANN Udo, S&D (Germany)

    KRUIS Sebastian, PfE (Netherlands)

    MADISON Jaak, ECR (Estonia)

    VEDRENNE Marie-Pierre, Renew (France)

    BRICMONT Saskia, Greens/EFA (Belgium)

    AUBRY Manon, The Left (France)

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Study – A European news streaming platform: Study on European added value and governance – 18-07-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    This study explores the feasibility of a European news streaming platform (ENSP), with a focus on its governance, legal implications and potential added value for media pluralism in Europe. Such a platform would, according to its proponents, provide access to news and public interest content by audiovisual media service providers across the EU, with automatically generated subtitles that make content available in all EU languages. Such an initiative is a clear response to the requirements highlighted in several EU communications and policy documents. If done properly, this platform has the potential to become an innovative tool to increase resilience in the information space. The insights derived from the report are used to propose policy options to improve citizens’ access to quality information in their own languages.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EU adopts 18th package of sanctions against Russia

    Source: European Commission

    European Commission Press release Brussels, 18 Jul 2025 The European Commission welcomes the Council’s adoption of the 18th Russia sanctions package, aimed at further ramping up pressure on the country and supporting EU’s goal of achieving a just and lasting peace for Ukraine.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Oral question – Declaration of principles for a gender-equal society – O-000024/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for oral answer  O-000024/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 142
    Lina Gálvez
    on behalf of the Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender Equality

    On 8 March 2025, the Commission published its Roadmap for Women’s Rights, which provides its political long-term vision to advance on women’s rights. Annexed to it was the Declaration of principles for a gender-equal society. In the roadmap, the Commission invites all interested parties, especially Parliament and the Council, social partners, civil society actors and other relevant organisations, to endorse the principles included in the declaration on women’s rights annexed to this roadmap in the course of 2025.

    In the past five years, the EU has made historic progress with the adoption of a number of very significant legislative acts on pay transparency, gender balance on company boards, and on combating violence against women. Nevertheless, progress towards gender equality remains slow. Much more needs to be done and the roadmap should provide guidance for the future measures in the next gender equality strategy. Parliament is looking forward to this strategy and is in the process of preparing its input with an own initiative report on the gender equality strategy 2025.

    • 1.How will the Commission ensure that Parliament’s positions regarding women’s rights and gender equality will be translated into the post-2025 gender equality strategy?
    • 2.Parliament has several times made concrete calls for new legislative proposals in the field of women’s rights and gender equality: what can we expect from the Commission in the upcoming gender equality strategy in this regard?

    Submitted: 16.7.2025

    Lapses: 17.10.2025

    Last updated: 18 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – CO2 transport methods, climate impact and EU storage plans under Net-Zero Industry Act (NZIA) obligations due by June 2025 – E-002787/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002787/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Niels Flemming Hansen (PPE)

    • 1.Can the Commission share whether it has any views or recommendations on the most climate-friendly way to transport captured CO2 to underground storage or carbon capture and storage facilities?
    • 2.According to the NZIA, EU companies subject to the storage obligation were to notify the Commission of their plans by 30 June 2025. In this context, can the Commission share the total amount of CO2 storage capacity that is expected to become operational across the EU by 31 December 2030 at the latest?
    • 3.For how many projects is a final investment decision expected to be taken in each of the following years: 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030?

    Submitted: 9.7.2025

    Last updated: 18 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Romania registers first corporate green bond sale as utility Electrica completes €500 million transaction with EIB participation

    Source: European Investment Bank

    EIB

    • Romanian power supplier Electrica raises €500 million through country’s first corporate green bond, with EIB among the buyers
    • Company to use proceeds to expand renewable electricity generation as well as energy storage

    Romanian power producer Electrica became the first company in Romania to issue a green bond, completing a €500 million operation in which the European Investment Bank (EIB) was one of the buyers. Investor demand for the bond, which is being listed on the Luxembourg and Bucharest stock exchanges, exceeded the offer at the final price by more than 10 times.

    Electrica will use the funds raised to expand renewable electricity generation and energy storage, in line with the company’s Green Financing Framework. By 2030, Electrica aims to have the capacity to generate 1,000 megawatts of renewable power and to store 900 megawatt-hours (MWh) of electricity.

    “This issuance is an ice breaker for the Romanian market,” said EIB Vice-President Ioannis Tsakiris. “The Electrica operation is at the intersection of finance and sustainability, encouraging all to think green. It is a significant project because driving funds towards environmentally sustainable projects is at the heart of fostering economic growth and contributing to the fight against climate change.”

    Electrica is a key player in the Romanian market for electricity production, supply and distribution. The company has around 4 million customers, largely in the regions of Transylvania and Muntenia.

    “The green-bond issuance marks a pivotal moment for Electrica and the national energy system,” said Electrica Chief Executive Officer Alexandru Chiriță. “The success of this operation underscores our corporate discipline, transparency and ability for swift execution while sending a strong signal to the international financial markets about Romania’s potential in sustainable financing.”

    The transaction demonstrates the EIB’s ability to support green investments that are aligned with the European Union taxonomy for sustainable activities via capital market instruments contributing to EU policy goals.

    Electrica’s green bond has a maturity of five years, an interest rate of 4.566% and a BBB rating by Fitch Ratings. The planned issuance was approved on 10 July 2025 by the Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier in Luxembourg.

    Romania registers first corporate green-bond sale as utility Electrica completes €500 million transaction with EIB participation
    Romania registers first corporate green-bond sale as utility Electrica completes €500 million transaction with EIB participation
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    Romania registers first corporate green-bond sale as utility Electrica completes €500 million transaction with EIB participation
    Romania registers first corporate green-bond sale as utility Electrica completes €500 million transaction with EIB participation
    ©EIB
    Download original

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Encouraging underage tourists to consume alcohol – E-002841/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002841/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Bert-Jan Ruissen (ECR)

    There are several holiday destinations in southern Europe (e.g. Ibiza, Mallorca, Albufeira, Sunny Beach, Chersonissos, Kos, Split) known for their drinking culture and poor control of whether drinkers are of legal age. This is potentially causing a race to the bottom, with minors opting for holiday destinations which pay scant regard to laws governing minimum drinking age. Minors are encouraged to participate in these trips[1]. Such tourism is also a nuisance to local residents.

    • 1.Does the Commission share the WHO’s view that Europe needs to rethink the place of alcohol in society[2], and take the approach that regulation and supervision of this form of cross-border tourism should be a top priority in this context?
    • 2.Does the Commission share the view that holidays in which excessive underage drinking is encouraged, for example through contractual arrangements between international tour operators and stakeholders in the local hospitality industry, are difficult to reconcile with the EU alcohol strategy[3] and the Commission’s commitment to sustainable tourism, especially the social aspect thereof[4]?
    • 3.Will the Commission engage with national governments and travel industry representatives to tackle this issue?

    Submitted: 11.7.2025

    • [1] https://www.golloretdemar.nl/lloret-de-mar-uitgaan-leeftijd/ en https://www.vakantiesvoorjongeren.nl/zonvakanties/spanje/mallorca-el-arenal/uitgaan-el-arenal/
    • [2] https://www.who.int/europe/news/item/02-10-2024-redefine-alcohol–who-s-urgent-call-for-europe-to-rethink-alcohol-s-place-in-society en https://www.who.int/europe/publications/m/item/alcohol–health-and-policy-response-in-the-european-union-in-2019
    • [3] https://ec.europa.eu/health/ph_determinants/life_style/alcohol/documents/alcohol_com_625_en.pdf
    • [4] https://transition-pathways.europa.eu/system/files/2024-09/Transition_Pathway_For_TourismFEB2022_correctedlink.pdf
    Last updated: 18 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Pettersen Votes Against Republican Defense Spending Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brittany Pettersen (Colorado 7th District)

    Today, U.S. Representative Brittany Pettersen (CO-07) released the following statement after voting against Republicans’ Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Department of Defense funding bill:

    “At a time when the United States should be showing strength and moral leadership on the global stage, this bill does the exact opposite. It abandons our allies, hands Putin a strategic win, and jeopardizes our military readiness with divisive policies and culture wars. 

    “Women and LGBTQ+ servicemembers make the same sacrifices all of our servicemembers make to defend our freedom, they all deserve our full respect. But Donald Trump has proven time and again that he does not support our troops – from calling them suckers and losers, to the devastating cuts he has made at the VA. This bill is yet another example of Trump’s horrific leadership as the Commander in Chief. This unserious funding bill is an attack on women and LGBTQ+ servicemembers, and serves as another example of Trump and his congressional leadership prioritizing culture wars instead of funding the support our troops need and deserve.

    “Despite including two of my amendments that would benefit Colorado, I could not in good conscience vote for a bill that otherwise undermines our values, weakens our global standing, and fails to support the servicemembers who put their lives on the line for this country.”

    Specifically, Republicans’ FY 26 Department of Defense spending bill:

    • Weakens Ukraine and empowers Russia by eliminating support for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative.
    • Undermines democracy at home and abroad by allowing disinformation and extremist views to flourish.
    • Limits women’s access to abortion by preventing service personnel from traveling to seek reproductive health care. 
    • Harms our military readiness with divisive provisions that undermine morale and fail to support our service personnel, by:
      • Continuing DOGE and the Administration’s cuts to vital civilian positions;
      • Attacking the LGBTQ+ community with hateful policies; and 
      • Banning funding for diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.

    Two of Rep. Pettersen’s amendments were included in the FY 2026 Defense bill:

    • Pettersen’s amendment advances cutting-edge aerospace research and strengthens national security through lunar technology.
    • Pettersen’s other amendment supports using quantum computing to predict and prevent threats to our electrical grid, bolstering national security and grid resilience. 

    ###

    To access downloadable, high-quality photos, click here. To stay up-to-date on what Pettersen is doing in Congress, follow her on Twitter here, Facebook here, or Instagram here. Residents can also sign-up for her e-newsletter subscription here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Results Helpline to support pupils in the Highlands with SQA results

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Young people in the Highlands can call a dedicated helpline offering expert advice to anyone receiving their full Higher, National, and Advanced results on Tuesday, 5 August 2025.

    The pupils and students- along with their parents and carers – will be able to get support with their results through Skills Development Scotland’s (SDS) Results Helpline, which opens from 8am on results day.

    The SDS Results Helpline will once again be staffed by expert careers advisers to assist anybody that needs help with their options and next steps, providing impartial career information, advice, and guidance. 

    The team of qualified advisers from Scotland’s national skills agency will be at the end of the phone line to offer guidance on colleges and universities, UCAS Confirmation and Clearing, apprenticeships, jobs and other training, volunteering, or staying on at school.   

    The number for the 2025 SDS Results Helpline is 0808 100 8000 and will be open: 

    Tuesday 5 and Wednesday 6 August – 8am to 8pm

    Thursday 7 and Friday 8 August – 9am to 5pm

    Dave McCallum, Head of Career Information, Advice and Guidance Operations at SDS said: “Our message for young people and their parents and carers as their results arrive is not to panic. Everything might seem overwhelming right now but remember that this is just one step on their journey.  

    “Our experienced advisers are here to provide expert support and guidance, offering information on a wide range of options and opportunities. They are also trained to help young people recognise that they are more than their exam results, giving them the confidence to see their strengths and abilities beyond qualifications.”

    Local SDS Careers Adviser Joan Duncan is part of the Results Helpline team who will be taking calls from young people, parents and carers from across the country. Joan said: “Whether a young person didn’t receive the results they were hoping for, or they exceeded their expectations, we are here to help them navigate the next steps and make the best decisions for their future.”  

    The SDS Results Helpline has been going for 33 years and has helped tens of thousands of young Scots.

    There’s also an SDS careers adviser linked to every secondary school in Scotland, with almost a quarter of a million school pupils from P7 to S6 receiving careers information, advice and guidance each year*.

    Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth said: “Young people have so many different ways to achieve their qualifications, with many eagerly anticipating their results coming through next month. It is important that no matter how they do, young people and their families have access to trusted and reliable information on potential next steps. That is what the advisers at the Skills Development Scotland helpline provide.

    “I would encourage everyone looking for impartial and expert advice on the options available, whether that is in work, training or further study, to consider contacting the helpline.”

    Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) helps young people get ready for the world of work by connecting them with employers and supporting them to explore a wide range of career pathways. DYW Co-ordinators are based in secondary schools across Scotland, working alongside SDS careers advisers to support pupils with their next steps.

    Michelle Fenwick, Director – DYW National Projects, said: “As results are released, it’s important that young people know there are many routes to success and that support is there for them. Through our #NoWrongPath campaign, and in partnership with SDS, we’re helping young people understand that the world of work is full of opportunity. Whether a young person is going into further or higher education, training, employment or still considering their options – the Results Helpline is a great way to get guidance, reassurance, and a sense of direction.”

    In addition to the dedicated SDS Results Helpline, young people and their parents or carers can also speak to an SDS adviser at a SDS centre or community venue (find out what’s close to you by visiting the Contact Us page of the SDS website), visit Scotland’s career information and advice website, My World of Work, or speak to directly to an SDS school-based careers adviser for year-round support.    

    Press release issued by Skills Development Scotland

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Grigorenko: Digital public administration is a new standard for regions.

    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.

    The Republic of Buryatia has joined the federal digital system of public administration. As a result, today 100% of the region’s federal orders are controlled using the “governor’s dashboard”. The implementation of this system was checked by Deputy Prime Minister – Head of the Government Staff Dmitry Grigorenko during a working visit to Ulan-Ude.

    In online mode, the “governor’s dashboard” allows you to monitor budget execution, implementation of national projects, including the construction of new roads, schools, hospitals and other socially significant facilities. The system provides up-to-date data on all key areas of the region’s work and its interaction with the federal center. This allows you to quickly respond to emerging difficulties and, if necessary, prevent possible risks of non-implementation of state projects.

    As of today, 43 regions are connected to the “governor’s dashboard”. It is planned that by the end of this year all subjects of the Russian Federation will join the system.

    The dashboard is based on the state automated information system “Management”, which is used to monitor the activities of the Government, the implementation of national projects, state programs and the achievement of national development goals. At the same time, each governor can set up a system for monitoring specific projects or tasks that the region most urgently needs to implement.

    “We are gradually moving towards data-based public administration. At the federal level, this approach has already proven its effectiveness – the executive discipline of government bodies in fulfilling key government tasks has increased many times over. Now, with the help of the “governor’s dashboard”, we are implementing this system in the regions. Buryatia was one of the first to join this project, and today the system is already being used here on a permanent basis,” said Dmitry Grigorenko.

    “The data and reports recorded on the dashboard influence the adoption of further decisions: to adjust something somewhere, to strengthen something somewhere, and so on. Therefore, internal discipline immediately increased not only in the implementation of tasks, but also in the correct execution of decisions,” noted the head of Buryatia, Alexey Tsydenov.

    During the visit, the Deputy Prime Minister also assessed the digital services being implemented in Buryatia to improve the efficiency of public administration and the quality of life of citizens. Among them is the voice assistant “Ulana”. In online mode, the virtual assistant based on artificial intelligence helps residents of the region make an appointment at the MFC or, conversely, cancel an appointment, find out about the procedure for obtaining a driver’s license, SNILS, TIN and other government services. The voice assistant has doubled the speed of processing citizens’ requests.

    An intelligent transport system has also been created and successfully implemented in Buryatia. It allows traffic management on the roads: it regulates traffic lights, monitors traffic jams and improves road safety. In particular, the intelligent transport system has reduced traffic jams in Ulan-Ude by 15%. To date, the city has also modernized the operation of 86 traffic lights, installed 143 video surveillance cameras that allow monitoring the traffic situation in real time. And information boards have appeared at bus stops to help passengers navigate public transport.

    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: The Russian Ministry of Economic Development and Avito Travel: Glamping popularity has doubled in a year

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Ministry of Economic Development (Russia) – Ministry of Economic Development (Russia) –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    In the summer of 2025, travelers are most actively booking daily glampings in the Moscow region, Tatarstan, Karelia and Krasnodar Krai.

    According to the Russian Ministry of Economic Development and Avito Travel, the number of bookings in glamping sites has doubled year-on-year. Most often, such sites are rented this summer in the Moscow Region (14% of all bookings), Tatarstan (10%), Karelia (6%), Krasnodar Region (5%) and Nizhny Novgorod Region (4%).

    Among the most popular regions, the demand for glamping sites has grown the most in Samara (6.4 times), Voronezh (3.6 times) and Leningrad regions (2.7 times), Tatarstan (2.6 times), Bashkortostan, Tyumen and Nizhny Novgorod regions (2.4 times in each region). In Moscow region, 80% more such sites were booked than in the summer of last year.

    The largest selection of glamping sites in the summer of 2025 is presented in the Moscow Region: every fourth such facility is located here. The share of the Sverdlovsk Region is 7%, Tatarstan – 6%, Krasnodar Krai, Bashkortostan and Leningrad Region – 4% each. The most noticeable increase in the supply of glamping sites year-on-year was noted in the Saratov (2.7 times) and Samara Regions (2.4 times), Adygea, Voronezh and Chelyabinsk Regions (2.3 times), as well as Bashkortostan and Ryazan Region (2.2 times).

    “Interest in modular hotels in Russia continues to grow, and the state actively supports their creation. Such hotels can be located in popular tourist locations – nature reserves, national parks, near national tourist routes, as well as in special economic zones, which helps to attract investment. The popularity of the program among businesses and regions is due to the growing demand of tourists for outdoor recreation, where the bulk of modular hotels are concentrated. Over the past three years, about 60 regions have reported the implementation of more than 800 projects, putting into operation more than 13 thousand rooms. This confirms the demand for the program and its contribution to the development of the country’s tourism infrastructure,” said Alimbek Khidzev, Director of the Tourism Development Department of the Ministry of Economic Development of Russia.

    On average, Russians rent glampings for two days — this figure has not changed over the year. For longer periods, travelers stay in such facilities in Krasnodar Krai (three days), Karelia, Adygea, Tver, Saratov and Yaroslavl regions (three days each).

    “Glamping in Russia has ceased to be a niche format, which we can see from the multiple growth of bookings this summer. And the average number of guests, which is four people, allows us to say that this format is not only for couples and solo travelers who are looking for an option to get closer to nature and live in a photogenic interior with comfort, but also for a family audience. For entrepreneurs, the glamping format is good because such objects can be located in unique natural locations – on the coast, in a mountain valley or near a beautiful reservoir. So not only the object itself, but also the natural environment begins to work on the impressions of travelers. As a result, glamping is turning into a full-fledged alternative to hotels – but with an atmosphere of privacy and closeness to nature,” commented Artem Kromochkin, Director of Avito Travel.

    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: Dmitry Chernyshenko: The Federal Project “Five Seas and Lake Baikal” has been supplemented by the “Balaklava Bay” project in Sevastopol

    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.

    A meeting of the subcommittee on the implementation of tourism investment projects of federal significance of the Government Commission for the Development of Tourism in the Russian Federation was held under the chairmanship of Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    The event was also attended by Deputy Minister of Economic Development Dmitry Vakhrukov, representatives of the Ministry of Construction, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Energy, Rosreestr, JSC Corporation Tourism.RF and others.

    The meeting discussed the organization of work on the implementation of the project of federal year-round resorts “Five Seas and Lake Baikal”.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko emphasized that thanks to the implementation of the project, by 2030 an additional 10 million tourists will be able to vacation annually.

    “On the instructions of President Vladimir Putin, within the framework of the national project “Tourism and Hospitality”, we are working on the federal project “Five Seas and Lake Baikal” with a total funding volume for all projects until 2030 of 103 billion rubles. I would like to note that today we need to prioritize the objects, we will establish the order of the projects, especially since there are instructions from the President and a number of initiatives to create resorts in other regions. Thus, the federal project “Five Seas and Lake Baikal” was supplemented by the project “Balaklava Bay” in Sevastopol,” the Deputy Prime Minister noted.

    Deputy Minister of Economic Development Dmitry Vakhrukov added that the implementation of the project of federal year-round resorts “Five Seas and Lake Baikal” will further increase the number of tourist trips around Russia, as well as expand the number of rooms.

    “Systematic work on the implementation of the federal project is carried out in strict accordance with the approved “road maps”. This indicates a high degree of involvement of the subjects and a clear understanding of the tasks. Most projects are being implemented within the planned timeframes. Work is constantly underway to balance the sources of financing the supporting infrastructure, attract and support investors. We are confident that this approach will contribute to the timely implementation of projects,” he said.

    Dmitry Vakhrukov reminded that the construction of resorts should become one of the priority tasks.

    Governor of Saint Petersburg Alexander Beglov called the Saint Petersburg Marina project significant for the city. To implement it, a structure for financing the construction of road facilities and, to a significant extent, engineering infrastructure has been determined to date. The plans include continuing work on including measures to create road infrastructure and street and road networks in the national project Infrastructure for Life.

    Deputy Governor of Zaporizhia Region Alexander Zinchenko presented a report on the Primorsk project, Governor of Irkutsk Region Igor Kobzev spoke about the Gates of Baikal and Baikal Sloboda, Deputy Chairman of the Government of the Republic of Buryatia Vyacheslav Sukhorukov – about Magic Baikal. Acting Minister of Resorts, Tourism and Olympic Heritage of Krasnodar Region Mikhail Zaritsky reported on the implementation of the New Anapa project, and Deputy Governor of Sevastopol Maria Litovko presented the Balaklava Bay project in Sevastopol.

    Information was also presented on the projects “Golden Sands” in the Republic of Crimea, “Caspian Coastal Cluster” in the Republic of Dagestan, “Primorye” in Primorsky Krai.

    In conclusion, Dmitry Chernyshenko called on the regions to more actively interact with federal ministries and departments in order to more quickly resolve issues related to project implementation.

    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: General Assembly Adopts Resolution Urging Action on Secretary-General’s Initiative to Modernize United Nations System

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    The General Assembly today adopted, by consensus, a resolution welcoming the Secretary-General’s efforts to strengthen the United Nations so that the Organization can keep pace with a changing world and be fit for present and future challenges.

    That text, titled “UN80 Initiative” (document A/79/L.99) also saw the Assembly look forward to receiving the Secretary-General’s proposals in the framework of that initiative, “taking into account the necessity to have clearly defined objectives and an evidence-based approach, and aiming at strengthening the impact of the United Nations and enhancing its agility, responsiveness and resilience while addressing the issue of duplicative efforts and ensuring effective and efficient mandate delivery across all three pillars of the work of the United Nations”.

    Further, the Assembly called on UN entities and specialized agencies to align their reform efforts with this approach, as appropriate.

    Following the adoption, the representative of Japan underlined her country’s commitment to multilateralism and the UN80 Initiative.  Detailing her delegation’s understanding that the UN is drawing lessons from previous reforms where “negotiations on mandates faced deadlock between Member States”, she said that today’s resolution “is not intended to obstruct these efforts but, rather, to support and complement them”.

    However, several speakers took issue with the timing of today’s resolution.

    The representative of Switzerland, also speaking for Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway, welcomed that today’s resolution recognizes the importance of Member States providing the Secretary-General with the necessary space and political backing for the UN80 Initiative.  However, he added:  “We were not fully convinced that the timing of this resolution was optimal or conducive to the ongoing discussions.”

    The representative of Australia, also speaking for Canada and New Zealand, emphasized that discussions concerning the UN80 Initiative should be based on clear, robust advice and proposals from the Secretary-General.  Further, they should be grounded in evidence-based, documented analysis.  “So, we believe a resolution at this stage is premature,” she said, pointing out that “it risks limiting both the scope and ambition of forthcoming proposals”.

    Similarly, Denmark’s representative, speaking for the European Union and its member States, expressed regret that “the process leading to the adoption of this resolution was premature and unnecessarily rushed”.  The limited time available for meaningful consultation and reflection did not allow for the constructive engagement required.  And, while the text aims to address duplication and promote efficiency, he stressed that the process leading to its adoption — “regrettably did not reflect these principles”.

    Following those statements, the representative of the Russian Federation took the floor to exercise the right of reply.  Recalling that his delegation conducted several rounds of consultations — “and, most importantly, took into account the red lines specified by delegations” — he urged the European Union to take such an approach in future negotiations.  Thanking those present for their consensus support, he said:  “It is because we seek success in the UN’s adaptation to current and future challenges that the Russian Federation presented this draft.”

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Police appeal to public over Newham stabbing

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Police are appealing to the public for information after a man was injured in a stabbing.

    At around 01:00hrs on Friday, 18 July, officers were called to North Woolwich Road, Newham, following reports of an assault involving a group of men with knives. Met officers and paramedics from the London Ambulance Service attended. A man, aged in his 20s, was treated at the scene for multiple stab wounds.

    He was taken to hospital, where his injuries were assessed as non-life-threatening and non-life-changing.

    Investigators are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident, or who has information, to call 101, quoting crime reference 368/18JUL.

    A report can be filed anonymously via independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

    We are aware of videos circulating online, and we are appealing to the public for their help in understanding what took place.

    There have been no arrests.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Josh McLaurin to Host Press Conference Regarding Journalist’s Continued ICE Detention

    Source: US State of Georgia

    ATLANTA (July 18, 2025)—On Tuesday, July 22, Sen. Josh McLaurin (D–Sandy Springs) will host a press conference on journalist Mario Guevara’s continued United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention.

    Guevara, who has lawfully resided in the U.S. for over 20 years, was placed in ICE custody on June 18, where he remains, despite being in the country legally since April 2004. Guevara has developed a large following in Atlanta and national recognition for his reporting on immigration issues.

    EVENT DETAILS:                      

    • Date: July 22, 2025
    • Time: 10:00 a.m.
    • Where: Georgia State Capitol, South Steps, 206 Washington St SW, Atlanta, GA, 30334
    • This event is open to the public.

    Speakers include:

    • Giovanni Diaz, managing partner of Diaz & Gaeta and Mario Guevara’s lawyer
    • Katherine and Oscar Guevara, Mario Guevara’s children
    • Katherine Jacobsen, Committee to Protect Journalists’ (CPJ) U.S., Canada and Caribbean program coordinator
    • Nora Benavidez, Free Press’ senior counsel and Georgia First Amendment Foundation board member

    MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES:

    We kindly request that members of the media confirm their attendance in advance by contacting Zach Pishock at SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.

    ###

    Sen. Josh McLaurin represents the 14th Senate District, which includes a portion of Fulton County. He may be reached by phone at (404) 463-4228 or by email at josh.mclaurin@senate.ga.gov.

    For all media inquiries, please reach out to SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –