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Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI USA: Companies and President Operating Oregon Wood Treatment Facility to Pay $1.5M in Criminal Fines for Hazardous Waste and Air Pollution Charges

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    A federal judge in Oregon yesterday sentenced the two companies responsible for the operation of the J.H. Baxter wood treatment facility in Eugene, Oregon, and their president, for hazardous waste and Clean Air Act violations. Collectively, they were ordered to pay a total of $1.5 million in criminal fines. In addition, the court ordered the companies to serve five years of probation and the companies’ president, Georgia Baxter-Krause, of Deschutes, Oregon, to serve 90 days in prison and one year of supervised release.

    Both companies — J.H. Baxter & Co. Inc. and J.H. Baxter & Co., A California Limited Partnership (collectively J.H. Baxter) — previously pleaded guilty to charges of illegally treating hazardous waste and knowingly violating the Clean Air Act’s regulations for hazardous air pollutants. Georgia Baxter-Krause previously pleaded guilty to two counts of making false statements in violation of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), the federal statute governing hazardous waste management.

    “On more than 100 different days, J.H. Baxter knowingly and illegally boiled off hazardous waste, emitting the discharge into the air,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD). “J.H. Baxter’s President, Georgia Baxter-Krause, then made false statements about the unlawful practice. Protecting the public’s health is among our highest priorities, and we will prosecute those who violate environmental laws.”

    “The J.H. Baxter companies knowingly mishandled hazardous waste and repeatedly violated the Clean Air Act by venting hazardous substances directly into the air, right across the street from people’s homes. The company president then lied to cover up these crimes,” said Acting Assistant Administrator Jeffrey Hall for EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “Today’s sentencing highlights the significant penalties that Congress has provided for illegally treating or disposing of hazardous waste as well as the Agency’s continued efforts to ensure that Americans have clean air, land, and water.”

    “The defendant companies boiled hazardous waste into our community’s air instead of properly dealing with it and Georgia Baxter-Krause lied when confronted about it,” said Nathan J. Lichvarcik, Chief of the Eugene and Medford Branches of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to work with our federal, state, and local partners to investigate and prosecute those who put Oregonians at risk in violation of federal law.”

    According to court documents, J.H. Baxter used hazardous chemicals to treat and preserve wood at its Eugene facility. The wastewater from the wood preserving processes was hazardous waste.

    To properly treat wastewater from its wood treatment process, J.H. Baxter operated a legal wastewater treatment unit to treat and evaporate the waste. For years, however, when J.H. Baxter had too much water on site, including process wastewater and precipitation, J.H. Baxter’s employees at the facility would transfer hazardous process wastewater to an available wood treatment retort to “boil it off,” greatly reducing its volume. J.H. Baxter would then remove the remaining waste from the retort, label it as hazardous waste and ship it offsite for disposal.

    J.H. Baxter did not have a permit to treat its hazardous waste in this manner, as required by RCRA. Additionally, J.H. Baxter’s facility was subject to certain Clean Air Act emissions standards for hazardous air pollutants, which required it to minimize air pollution emissions. However, during the illegal treatment, employees were directed to open all vents on the retorts, allowing discharge to the surrounding air.

    After Oregon inspectors discovered this activity, they requested information about the companies’ practice of boiling off hazardous wastewater. On two separate occasions, Georgia Baxter-Krause gave false information in response, which included information about the dates the practice took place and which retorts were used.

    The investigation determined that Georgia Baxter-Krause knew J.H. Baxter maintained detailed daily production logs for each retort. From approximately January to October 2019, J.H. Baxter boiled off hazardous process wastewater in its wood treatment retorts on 136 known days. Georgia Baxter-Krause was also aware that during this time J.H. Baxter used four of its five retorts to boil off wastewater.

    This case was investigated by the EPA Criminal Investigation Division with assistance from the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality, Lane Regional Air Protection Agency, EPAs Pacific Northwest (Region 10) office, and the Oregon State Police.

    This case was an Environmental Crimes Task Force (ECTF) investigation. ECTF is an initiative in the District of Oregon that identifies, investigates, and prosecutes significant environmental, public lands, and wildlife crimes. ECTF leverages the resources and effort of federal, state and local regulatory agencies and law enforcement to protect human health, safeguard natural resources and wildlife and hold violators accountable.

    Trial Attorneys Rachel Roberts and Stephen J. Foster of ENRD’s Environmental Crimes Section, Assistant U.S. Attorney William M. McLaren for the District of Oregon and EPA Regional Criminal Enforcement Counsel Karla G. Perrin prosecuted the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Statement from Minister Burke

    Source: Government of Ireland – Department of Jobs Enterprise and Innovation

    23rd April 2025

    The Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke said: 

    “I continue to engage with Intel, supported by colleagues in IDA Ireland, ahead of the company’s Q1 financial results being announced tomorrow night. We have a very strong relationship with management in Intel, both in Ireland and the US, with the company investing significantly here over the last 35 years, most recently opening Fab 34 in 2023 with an investment of €17 billion. 

    “Ireland continues to play an important role in Intel’s plans as the European hub for manufacturing semiconductors, and we don’t see speculation around headcount reduction changing this. We continue to partner with Intel in areas of research and innovation and our upcoming National Semiconductor Strategy launch will further enhance this important sector. I appreciate speculation is very difficult for staff in Leixlip, and we will continue our engagement with management over the coming weeks and months.”

    ENDS

    Back to Department News

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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Democratic Republic of the Congo’s (DRC) Hydrocarbons Minister to Speak at Invest in African Energy (IAE) 2025 Amid Renewed Exploration Drive

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    PARIS, France, April 23, 2025/APO Group/ —

    The Democratic Republic of the Congo’s (DRC) Minister of Hydrocarbons, Aimé Sakombi Molendo, is confirmed to speak at Invest in African Energy (IAE) 2025 in Paris next month. His participation underscores the DRC’s commitment to revitalizing its hydrocarbons sector through strategic reforms, regional partnerships and renewed investor engagement, following recent exploration breakthroughs and cross-border agreements.

    With an estimated 5 to 22 billion barrels of oil reserves, the DRC is advancing a pro-investment agenda focused on enhancing transparency, improving operational efficiency and accelerating upstream activity – efforts that are already yielding results. In May 2024, Perenco’s subsidiary, Muanda International Oil Company, achieved the DRC’s first offshore oil discovery in nearly three decades with the Moke-East well in the Coastal Basin. To fast-track exploration and strengthen national participation, the government also recently approved a decree granting state-owned Société Nationale des Hydrocarbures du Congo the rights to Blocks 1 and 2 in the Albertine Basin, one of the country’s most promising zones for oil exploration.

    IAE 2025 (https://apo-opa.co/4cHC9it) is an exclusive forum designed to facilitate investment between African energy markets and global investors. Taking place May 13-14, 2025 in Paris, the event offers delegates two days of intensive engagement with industry experts, project developers, investors and policymakers. For more information, please visit www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

    In a key regional development, the DRC and Angola signed new terms for the co-development of offshore Block 14 during the Angola Oil & Gas 2024 conference. Straddling the maritime border between the two nations, Block 14 boasts a production capacity of 3.29 million barrels per year and is operated by Chevron’s local subsidiary, Cabinda Gulf Oil Company, alongside partners Eni, etu energias and Sonangol. The agreement, formalizing nearly two decades of negotiations, is poised to encourage further investment and strengthen cross-border petroleum trade.

    Minister Molendo’s presence at IAE 2025 will offer delegates valuable insights into the DRC’s evolving energy landscape – spanning hydrocarbons, energy and mining – and the government’s integrated approach to sustainable resource development. As the DRC strengthens linkages across its extractive industries, the Minister is expected to outline emerging opportunities in exploration, infrastructure and local content development. He joins a high-level lineup of African energy leaders, including ministers from Nigeria, the Republic of the Congo, Mauritania, Gabon, Guinea-Bissau and Liberia, underscoring the summit’s role as a premier platform for pan-African energy dialogue and investment.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Recruitment starts for Independent Climate Council members23 April 2025 Recruitment has started for the appointment of members of​ Jersey’s newly established Independent Climate Council, which will be funded through the Climate Emergency Fund. The Independent Climate Council… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    23 April 2025

    Recruitment has started for the appointment of members of​ Jersey’s newly established Independent Climate Council, which will be funded through the Climate Emergency Fund. 

    The Independent Climate Council will play a vital role in ensuring oversight and accountability of the Government of Jersey’s climate actions, as outlined in the Carbon Neutral Roadmap, CNR. The Council will report on progress every four years, aligned with the electoral cycle, and provide independent, science-based analysis on greenhouse gas, GHG, emission reductions and the delivery of climate policy initiatives. 

    Final appointments to the Council will be confirmed jointly by the Minister for the Environment and the Chair of the Environment, Housing and Infrastructure, EHI, Scrutiny Panel, in line with the proposal approved by the States Assembly.

    The recruitment process will be overseen by Jersey Appointments Commission. 

    Minister for the Environment, Deputy Steve Luce, said: “Recruitment for the Independent Climate Council comes at a crucial time, when global climate action is under scrutiny. The Council will provide robust scientific analysis and essential transparency. It will review how effectively the Government of Jersey is delivering the measures set out in the Carbon Neutral Roadmap and progress made towards the Island’s emission reduction targets under the Paris Agreement. In holding the Government to account, the Council will play a vital role in supporting a renewed focus on delivering Jersey’s net zero commitment.

    “Appointment to Jersey’s first Climate Council offers an exceptional opportunity to review our actions and achievements since the Carbon Neutral Roadmap was approved in 2022. The Council’s report and recommendations will be published early next year before final agreement of the priorities for the Roadmap’s second delivery plan running from 2027 to 2030. We welcome applications from suitably qualified and experienced Islanders as well as candidates from further afield. I look forward to supporting the Council’s work when it convenes later this year.” 

    Deputy Hilary Jeune, Chair of the EHI Scrutiny Panel, said: “This initiative stems from an amendment by the EHI Scrutiny Panel to the Carbon Neutral Roadmap, following the recognition that independent oversight was missing. The establishment of this Council is fundamental to maintaining good governance and ensuring Jersey remains on track to meet its climate goals. The four-yearly reports will offer transparent, evidence-based insight to the public, who are central to our collective progress towards becoming a net-zero Island. I’m proud that Scrutiny will continue its role as a constructive and critical friend to Government throughout this process.” 

    The States Assembly declared a climate emergency in May 2019, acknowledging its likely profound effects on Jersey. In response, the Carbon Neutral Roadmap was approved on 29 April 2022, setting out the initial policies to reduce GHG emissions during the 2022–2025 Delivery Plan period.

    The Council’s primary responsibility will be to produce a comprehensive report at the end of each governmental term, assessing Jersey’s progress on GHG emissions reductions and evaluating how effectively the CNR is being delivered. The first report is due to be presented to the States Assembly by the end of Q1 2026. 

    The Independent Climate Council will comprise up to five members, including a Chair elected from within the membership. At least one member must be a full-time Jersey resident. Appointed members will serve a single fixed term and will primarily conduct their work during the final quarter of 2025 and the first quarter of 2026. 

    Council members will bring independent expertise and strategic insight to help guide Jersey’s transition to net zero, evaluating implementation of current policies and advising on how best to apply resources to meet climate objectives. 

    Further details on the recruitment process can be found here: Leading our Island and the candidate brief.​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Walk Leicester Festival is back!

    Source: City of Leicester

    FREE group walks and events are taking place throughout May as the Walk Leicester festival returns.

    Now in its seventh year, Walk Leicester is a month-long celebration of walking and its benefits for our health, happiness and the environment. It’s a chance to explore and discover the city on foot, with themed walks encompassing local history and archaeology, wildlife and ecology – as well as providing lots of chances to simply walk in a group for pleasure.

    The festival kicks off on 1 May with a friendly group walk from the city centre to the café at Gorse Hill City Farm, taking a two-mile scenic route through the pleasant green spaces of the Rally and Stokeswood parks, via the Orchards local nature reserve.

    From 6-9 May, De Montfort University will be hosting Medieval Campus walks. Starting at Leicester Castle, these will be packed with fascinating historical facts courtesy of DMU Museum. They will explore the medieval history surrounding the campus, encompassing the castle motte and Great Hall, the exterior of St Mary de Castro, Turret Gate, Trinity Hospital, Chantry House and the Church of the Annunciation, with a chance to enter buildings usually inaccessible to the public.

    On 15 May, a wildlife guide will lead a Walk on the Wild Side at Watermead Park to talk about seasonal plants and animals found there, while on 16 and again on 27 May, the Canal & River Trust will host a waterside Dragonfly Safari along the River Soar, with the chance to spot lots of local insect life.

    The last journeys of King Richard III will form the basis of two walks hosted by the Council for British Archaeology on 17 May, taking in the routes of the King’s fateful last journeys in and out of central Leicester in 1485. A local historian will also provide an insight into the behind-the-scenes work that went on in preparation for the King’s reinterment in 2015. 

    And during half term at the end of the month, Funky Feet and Wacky Wheels (pictured) will return to Abbey Park. This fun, free event for families includes lots of activity trails, and the chance to decorate your shoes, bike or scooter. It runs from 11am-2pm on 28 May and there’s no need to book, you can just turn up.

    Cllr Vi Dempster, assistant city mayor responsible for public health, parks, trees and woodlands, said: “The Walk Leicester festival offers people the chance to make new friends, discover new routes and learn more about the fascinating history of our city.

    “We’re also very lucky in Leicester to have so many parks and open spaces for people to walk through, many of which have tree trails you can follow to find out more about our vast range of specimen trees. Walking in such environments is proven to boost your mood and help with mental wellbeing, so I hope that lots of people will enjoy our tree trails, park routes and wildlife walks as part of the Walk Leicester festival.”

    Cllr Geoff Whittle, assistant city mayor for environment and transport, said: “Leicester is a great place to explore on foot. We’ve invested in dedicated walking and cycling routes that make it safe and easy to get around. The Walk Leicester Festival is the perfect opportunity to try them out.”

    May is National Walking Month, aimed at helping people to discover how walking can improve your physical fitness and mental wellbeing. Last year, research conducted by Living Streets, the charity behind National Walking Month, showed that 54% of people in Britain said they walk to improve their mental health and happiness. Other reasons for walking included to get fresh air, move more and connect with nature.

    Find out more about the Walk Leicester festival at https://www.choosehowyoumove.co.uk/walkleicester/

    Find out more about National Walking Month at https://www.livingstreets.org.uk/get-involved/national-walking-month/

    ENDS

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Op-Ed by Ambassador Brian Aggeler on current situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina

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

    Headline: Op-Ed by Ambassador Brian Aggeler on current situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina

    Ambassador Brian Aggeler, Head of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (OSCE) Photo details

    Today Bosnia and Herzegovina is facing the most serious constitutional crisis since the end of the war nearly thirty years ago. The Dayton Peace Agreement that ended that devastating war entrusted the OSCE with a vital role: to help secure lasting peace, protect human rights, and support building a stable, democratic state.
    In fulfilling this mandate the OSCE not only has the responsibility, but the duty to speak up – clearly and consistently – when the future of Bosnia and Herzegovina is at risk.
    And that means condemning efforts to undermine the country’s constitutional structures through the establishment of parallel structures and banning of the work of State-level institutions, undermining the territorial integrity of BiH.  The legal effect of such laws was temporarily suspended by Constitutional Court of BiH, but these actions are continuing to threaten the sovereignty and territorial integrity of BiH by undermining State competencies, and diminish the scope of legal protections for individuals and business in Republika Srpska. 
    Although the Constitutional Court of BiH has temporarily suspended the legal effect of some of these laws, the intent behind them remains deeply troubling. Justifications that invoke a return to the so-called “original” Dayton agreement are misleading. State institutions established with the explicit consent of the Entities – as stipulated by the BiH Constitution – are very much necessary for the functioning of the State. Once these institutions have been established at the State level, their competences cannot be simply revoked or terminated unilaterally. Neither the BiH Constitution nor the transfer agreements include provisions for their expiration or one-sided withdrawal. Under the current constitutional framework, such unilateral moves are simply not legally permissible.
    The dedicated public servants who continue to carry out their duties in this difficult environment are helping to keep the State functioning for the benefit of all citizens. Their courage and integrity deserve strong and vocal support from all of us.
    Secessionist and anti-Dayton rhetoric and actions strike at the very core of the country’s institutional integrity. They create deepening uncertainty, the consequences of which are hard to predict. In this context, it is not the role of the international community to impose solutions. Responsibility lies with BiH’s political leaders – to uphold the integrity of State institutions, to respect the Constitution, and to support the authority and independence of the judiciary. 
    The OSCE’s position is clear. During her recent visit to Sarajevo, the OSCE Chair-in-Office, Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen, renewed the Organization’s unwavering commitment to the Dayton Peace Agreement, the BiH Constitution, and to State-level institutions, including the judiciary. She also called for a de-escalation of tensions. Her strong message echoed statements made by the OSCE Mission, the Chair-in Office and the Secretary General, jointly and unequivocally condemning secessionist actions, and re-affirming our support for the rule of law.
    The people of BiH deserve better. They deserve quality education, a transparent and independent judiciary, reconciliation, and a stable, secure, environment where everyone can thrive. These are the areas the OSCE focuses on, and these should also be the priorities for responsible political leaders. 
    Bosnia and Herzegovina is a country of immense potential. Despite the complexity of the current situation, the OSCE remains committed to navigating it together and supporting the country’s success. We will continue to engage with all those working in good faith to help the this wonderfully diverse country move forward.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: The arbitral tribunal has confirmed Onni Bidco Oy’s redemption right over the minority shares in Innofactor Plc, and trading in the Innofactor Plc shares has been suspended

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Innofactor Plc | Stock Exchange Release | April 23, 2025 at 18:00 EEST

    The arbitral tribunal has confirmed Onni Bidco Oy’s redemption right over the minority shares in Innofactor Plc, and trading in the Innofactor Plc shares has been suspended

    The arbitral tribunal appointed by the Redemption Board of the Finland Chamber of Commerce in connection with the redemption proceedings concerning the minority shares in Innofactor Plc (“Innofactor”) has in its interim decision issued today confirmed that Onni Bidco Oy (“Onni Bidco”) has the right to redeem the minority shares in Innofactor, and that Onni Bidco has the right to obtain title to the minority shares by posting a security approved by the arbitral tribunal for the payment of the redemption price and the interest accruing thereon.

    Innofactor announced on March 31, 2025 that the Board of Directors of Innofactor has resolved to apply for the termination of public trading in the shares of Innofactor and for the delisting of its shares from the official list of Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd (“Nasdaq Helsinki”) so that the delisting in respect of the Innofactor shares admitted to trading on the official list of Nasdaq Helsinki would become effective as soon as possible upon Onni Bidco having gained title to all the shares in Innofactor in the pending redemption proceedings under Chapter 18 of the Finnish Companies Act.

    Following the confirmation of Onni Bidco’s redemption right, Nasdaq Helsinki has suspended trading in the Innofactor shares today on April 23, 2025 at 17:16 (EEST). The possible posting of the security and the delisting of the Innofactor shares will be announced separately.

    Investor and media enquiries:

    Veera Vitie (Innofactor), ir@innofactor.com, +358 44 331 0207
    Lasse Lautsuo (Innofactor), ir@innofactor.com, +358 50 480 1597

    Distribution:
    NASDAQ Helsinki
    Main media

    ABOUT INNOFACTOR

    Innofactor is the leading promoter of the modern digital organization in the Nordic countries for its approximately 1,000 customers in the commercial and public sectors. Innofactor has the widest solution offering and leading know-how in the Microsoft ecosystem in the Nordics. Innofactor’s offering includes planning services for business-critical IT solutions, project deliveries, implementation support and maintenance services, as well as own software and services. Innofactor employs nearly 600 experts in Finland, Sweden, Denmark and Norway. Innofactor’s shares are listed on Nasdaq Helsinki with the ticker symbol IFA1V.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How will a new pope be chosen? An expert explains the conclave

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Darius von Guttner Sporzynski, Historian, Australian Catholic University

    Following the death of Pope Francis, we’ll soon be seeing a new leader in the Vatican. The conclave – a strictly confidential gathering of Roman Catholic cardinals – is due to meet in a matter of weeks to elect a new earthly head.

    The word conclave is derived from the Latin con (together) and clāvis (key). It means “a locked room” or “chamber”, reflecting its historical use to describe the locked gathering of cardinals to elect a pope.

    Held in the Sistine Chapel, the meeting follows a centuries-old process designed to ensure secrecy and prayerful deliberation. A two-thirds majority vote will be needed to successfully elect the 267th pope.

    History of the conclave

    The formalised papal conclave dates back centuries. And various popes have shaped the process in response to the church’s needs.

    In the 13th century, for example, Pope Gregory X introduced strict regulations to prevent unduly long elections.

    Pope Gregory X brought in the rules to prevent a repeat of his own experience. The conclave that elected him in September 1271 (following the death of Pope Clement IV in 1268) lasted almost three years.

    Further adjustments were made to streamline the process and emphasise secrecy, culminating in Pope John Paul II’s 1996 constitution, Universi Dominici gregis (The Lord’s whole flock). This document set the modern framework for the conclave.

    In 2007 and 2013, Benedict XVI reiterated that a two-thirds majority of written votes would be required to elect a new pope. He also reaffirmed penalties for breaches of secrecy.

    The secrecy surrounding the conclave ensures the casting of ballots remains confidential, and without any external interference.

    The last known attempt at external interference in a papal conclave occurred in 1903 when Emperor Franz Joseph of Austria sought to prevent the election of Cardinal Mariano Rampolla. However, the assembled cardinals rejected this intervention, asserting the independence of the electoral process.

    How does voting work?

    The conclave formally begins between 15 and 20 days after the papal vacancy, but can start earlier if all cardinals eligible to vote have arrived. Logistical details, such as the funeral rites for the deceased pope, can also influence the overall timeline.

    Historically, the exact number of votes required to elect a new pope has fluctuated. Under current rules, a minimum two-thirds majority is needed. If multiple rounds of balloting fail to yield a result, the process can continue for days, or even weeks.

    After every few inconclusive rounds, cardinals pause for prayer and reflection. This process continues until one candidate receives the two-thirds majority required to win. The final candidates do not vote for themselves in the decisive round.

    The ballot paper formerly used in the conclave, with ‘I elect as Supreme Pontiff’ written in Latin.
    Wikimedia Commons

    How is voting kept secret?

    The papal conclave is entirely closed to the public. Voting is conducted by secret ballot within the Sistine Chapel in the Apostolic Palace, the pope’s official residence.

    During the conclave, the Sistine Chapel is sealed off from outside communication. No cameras are allowed, and there is no live broadcast.

    The cardinals involved swear an oath of absolute secrecy, and face the threat of excommunication if it is violated. This ensures all discussions and voting remain strictly confidential.

    The iconic white smoke, produced by burning ballots once a pope has been chosen, is the only public signal that the election has concluded.

    Who can be elected?

    Only cardinals who are under 80 years of age at the time of conclave’s commencement can vote. Older cardinals are free to attend preparatory meetings, but can not cast ballots.

    While the total number of electors is intended to not exceed 120, the fluctuating nature of cardinal appointments, as well as age restrictions, make it difficult to predict the exact number of eligible voters at any given conclave.

    Technically, any baptised Catholic man can be elected pope. In practice, however, the College of Cardinals traditionally chooses one of its own members. Electing an “outsider” is extremely rare, and has not occurred in modern times.

    What makes a good candidate?

    When faced with criticism from a member of the public about his weight, John XXIII (who was pope from 1958-1963) retorted the papal conclave was “not a exactly beauty contest”.

    Merit, theological understanding, administrative skill and global perspective matter greatly. But there is also a collegial element – something of a “popularity” factor. It is an election, after all.

    Cardinals discuss the church’s current priorities – be they evangelisation strategies, administrative reforms or pastoral concerns – before settling on the individual they believe is best suited to lead.

    The cardinal electors seek someone who can unify the faithful, navigate modern challenges and maintain doctrinal continuity.

    Controversies and criticisms

    The conclave process has faced criticism for its strict secrecy, which can foster speculation about potential “politicking”.

    Critics argue a tightly controlled environment might not reflect the broader concerns of the global church.

    Some have also questioned whether age limits on voting cardinals limit the wisdom and experience found among older members.

    Nonetheless, defenders maintain that secrecy encourages free and sincere deliberation, minimising external pressure and allowing cardinals to choose the best leader without fear of reprisal, or of public opinion swaying the vote.

    Challenges facing the new pope

    The next pope will inherit a mixed situation: a church that has grown stronger in certain areas under Francis, yet which grapples with internal divisions and external challenges.

    Like other religions, the church faces secularisation, issues with financial transparency and a waning following in some parts of the globe.

    One of the earliest trials faced by the new pope will be unifying the global Catholic community around a shared vision – an obstacle almost every pope has faced. Striking the right balance between doctrine and pastoral sensitivity remains crucial.

    Addressing sexual abuse scandals and their aftermath will require decisive action, transparency and continued pastoral care for survivors.

    Practical concerns also loom large. The new pope will have to manage the Vatican bureaucracy and interfaith relations, while maintaining the church’s stance on global crises such as migration and poverty – two issues on which Francis insisted mercy could not be optional.

    The cardinal electors have a tough decision ahead of them. The Catholic community can only pray that, through their deliberations, they identify a shepherd who can guide the church through the complexities of the modern world.

    Darius von Guttner Sporzynski 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. How will a new pope be chosen? An expert explains the conclave – https://theconversation.com/how-will-a-new-pope-be-chosen-an-expert-explains-the-conclave-250506

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scottish Government on road to climate chaos by scrapping car journey targets

    Source: Scottish Greens

    23 Apr 2025 Transport

    We badly need to cut the cost of public transport if we are to reduce the number of cars on our roads.

    More in Transport

    If we are to reduce car use we need to make public transport affordable, accessible and available for all, says Scottish Green MSP Mark Ruskell.

    Mr Ruskell’s comments come as the Scottish government has dropped a nationwide target to cut the number of car journeys taken in Scotland by 20 per cent by 2030.

    Transport is Scotland’s largest carbon emitter, accounting for 29% of total greenhouse gas emissions in 2022.

    Scottish Greens Transport Spokesperson Mark Ruskell MSP said:

    “The lack of ambition from the Scottish Government is disappointing. Dropping this target won’t change the fact that, since the target was set, there has been a serious lack of action from SNP ministers to meet it.

    “Emissions from transport remain the largest source of pollution in Scotland, and private car use makes up a huge share of that. We’ve known for decades that to tackle the climate emergency, we need to cut car use, and while the Scottish Government has been strong with words, their actions have been lacking.

    “We are on the road to climate chaos. We need to make public transport affordable, accessible and available to all if we are to start cutting emissions.

    “The action we need to be taking is exactly what the Scottish Greens have been pushing to introduce for years: cheaper trains and buses, better connections for rural communities and an end to spending on new unnecessary road building schemes.

    “Making public transport cheaper and more accessible makes the choice to leave the car at home easier for many people. Many commuters want to play their part in reducing our carbon emissions but the cost is simply too high for some. It’s time to make trains and buses cheaper across Scotland.”

    Mr Ruskell added:

    “Whilst in Government, the Scottish Greens introduced the free bus pass for young people, which has been used over 200 million times, we scrapped peak rail fares for a period, which led to 10 million more commuter journeys, and we delivered record investment in active travel infrastructure allowing more people than ever to walk, wheel or cycle.

    “This is the kind of ambition needed to reduce carbon emissions in Scotland, but we need to go further. With more Scottish Green MSPs in Holyrood, we can push for real change to tackle the climate emergency and save commuters money, such as a permanent removal of peak rail fares, a nationwide bus fare cap, and radical investment in Scotland’s railways.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Greens call for end to King’s property tax break

    Source: Scottish Greens

    23 Apr 2025 Finance

    The Monarchy is an costly and archaic institution.

    More in Finance

    Scottish Green MSP Ross Greer has tabled proposals to end the King’s exclusive 100% tax exemption when buying property in Scotland.

    Mr Greer has lodged proposals to the Housing (Scotland) Bill that would close the loophole allowing the King to purchase property in Scotland without paying any Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (LBTT).

    Any other family buying a property worth over £145,000 would pay LBTT at 5-12%, depending on the value of the property.

    This is one of several tax exemptions enjoyed by the monarchy. They are also exempt from taxes reserved to the UK Government including corporation tax, capital gains tax and inheritance tax.

    Mr Greer said:

    “It’s simply unjustifiable that one of the richest men in the country gets a free pass from paying tax because of the family he was born into.

    “The Scottish Greens would obviously scrap the monarchy in a heartbeat, but even royalists must agree that this is an absurd and undeserved perk for someone more than capable of paying his fair share towards our public services.

    “The Crown is an expensive relic, and an insult to democracy. One family should not be allowed to exempt itself from whichever laws it doesn’t want to follow.

    “The Scottish Parliament may not have the power to end every tax perk enjoyed by the Windsors, but we can end this one and set an example for the UK Government to follow.

    “My proposals are a modest but important step towards a fairer Scotland. If Parliament agrees, it would be a powerful statement against entrenched power and privilege.

    “It’s long past time that we challenged rather than pandered to elites who want one rule for themselves and another for the rest of us.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: MHRA approves first UK treatment for Friedreich’s ataxia, omaveloxolone

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    MHRA approves first UK treatment for Friedreich’s ataxia, omaveloxolone

    As with all products, we will keep its safety under close review.

    The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has today, 23 April, approved omaveloxolone (Skyclarys), the first treatment for patients aged 16 and over, in the UK for a rare neurodegenerative movement disorder called Friedreich’s ataxia.

    Friedreich’s ataxia is the most common type of hereditary ataxia (caused by genes a person has inherited). It is thought to affect at least 1 in every 50,000 people. Symptoms of Friedreich’s ataxia include problems with balance and movement, which get progressively worse over time.

    This medicine is taken as an oral capsule.

    Julian Beach, MHRA Interim Executive Director of Healthcare Quality and Access, said:

    “Patient safety is our top priority. I am pleased to confirm the first UK approval for the treatment of Friedreich’s ataxia, omaveloxolone.

    “We’re assured that the appropriate regulatory standards of safety, quality and effectiveness for the approval of this new treatment have been met.

    “As with all products, we will keep its safety under close review.”

    People with Friedreich’s ataxia appear to have reduced levels and activity of a protein called Nrf2, which helps cells respond to oxidative stress (a condition that may occur when there are too many free radicals in the body and not enough antioxidants to get rid of them, which can lead to cell and tissue damage). Omaveloxolone activates the Nrf2 pathway.

    In a clinical trial, patients treated with omaveloxolone scored better on tests of neurological function than patients who were treated with a placebo (a dummy treatment).

    In this clinical trial, involving 103 patients with Friedreich’s ataxia aged between 16 and 40 years, omaveloxolone was more effective than placebo at reducing physical impairment after 48 weeks of treatment.

    For the full list of all side effects reported with this medicine, see Section 4 of the Patient Information Leaflet or the Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) available on the MHRA’s website.

    Anyone who suspects they are having a side effect from this medicine should talk to their doctor, pharmacist or nurse and report it directly to the MHRA Yellow Card scheme, either through the website (https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk/) or by searching the Google Play or Apple App stores for MHRA Yellow Card.   

    Notes to editors   

    • The new marketing authorisation was granted on 23 April to Biogen Netherlands B.V.

    • This product was submitted and approved via a national procedure. 

    • More information can be found in the Summary of Product Characteristics and Patient Information leaflets which will be published on the MHRA Products website within 7 days of approval. 

    • The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is responsible for regulating all medicines and medical devices in the UK by ensuring they work and are acceptably safe.  All our work is underpinned by robust and fact-based judgements to ensure that the benefits justify any risks. 

    • The MHRA is an executive agency of the Department of Health and Social Care. 

    • For media enquiries, please contact the newscentre@mhra.gov.uk, or call on 020 3080 7651. 

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Alberta joining global wildlife council

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canadian Coast Guard Inshore Rescue Boat training in Parry Sound, Ontario

    Source: Government of Canada News

    April 23, 2025

    Parry Sound, ON. – The Canadian Coast Guard’s Inshore Rescue Boat (IRB) program will hold search and rescue training for crews between April 25 and May 12, 2025 in Parry Sound, Ontario.

    Training will be carried out during daytime and nighttime hours at the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) Base in Parry Sound and surrounding waters south to Midland, and north to Britt. The public can expect to see upwards of 10 CCG Zodiac Fast Rescue Craft and helicopters throughout the area. There is no real emergency or danger to the public.

    This training certifies and prepares students to respond to marine emergencies during the summer months, such as, but not limited to, medical emergencies, missing persons/boaters, vessels aground, vessels taking on water, and disabled vessels.

    Each summer, the Canadian Coast Guard hires post-secondary students and trains them as IRB crews at stations across Canada. These stations provide supplementary search and rescue services during the busy summer boating season. The IRB program provides employment experience and mentorship to post-secondary students.

    On the Great Lakes, the Canadian Coast Guard operates six IRB stations. They are located at Britt (Georgian Bay), Brebeuf Island (Georgian Bay), Hill Island (St. Lawrence River), Port Lambton (St. Clair River), Thames River (Lake St. Clair) and Long Point (Lake Erie). IRB stations are open annually from May to October.

    For more information on the IRB program, visit: Inshore Rescue Boat service

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to study suggesting childhood exposure to bacterial toxin from certain E. coli strains may be associated with colorectal cancer rate increase among the young

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A study published in Nature looks at E. coli strains and an association with increased colorectal cancer rates.

    Professor Trevor Graham, Professor of Genomics and Evolution and Director of the Centre for Evolution and Cancer at The Institute of Cancer Research, London, said:

    Is this good quality research?  Are the conclusions backed up by solid data?

    “This is very good quality research. The authors have collected bowel cancers from countries around the world and performed whole genome sequencing on them, which detects the pattern of mutations across the genome. Different mutational processes (such as the mutations that happen normally through ageing, or the mutations caused by smoking) make different patterns. Therefore by looking at the mutational patterns, the authors could learn what likely caused the mutations in the bowel cancers. They found different patterns of mutations in cancers from different countries, although it isn’t clear what caused these differences. They also found that, in countries where bowel cancer was more common, there were increased numbers of mutations caused by a special type of E. coli that can live in the bowel (called pks+ E. coli that make a mutagen called colibactin). These colibactin caused mutations which also plausibly caused the cancers to grow in the first place, although we can’t say that from this study. Most importantly, the colibactin mutations were also more common in people who got bowel cancer before the age of 50. This suggests the mutations caused by these bugs in the bowel could be a cause of early-onset bowel cancer, although further studies are needed to confirm this.

    “We’ve known for a while that colibactin made by a particular strain of E. coli causes mutations linked to bowel cancers, and also that these mutations likely had a role in causing the cancers to grow in the first place. It had been proposed before that these “bad bugs” could have a role in causing early-onset disease: this work provides strong data yet that the hypothesis is correct.”

    Is this an association or causation? Do we know yet that this toxin actually causes the colorectal cancer? 

    “The study is correlation only. The data are very suggestive that the colibactin producing E. coli may have a causative role in bowel cancer development, but they do not prove it directly.

    “It is certain, from previous work, that colibactin causes mutations in the bowel, and that pks+ E. coli make colibactin. These new data are definitive that the burden of colibactin mutations is greater in early onset bowel cancers.

    “It’s not clear when and how the particular strain of E. coli gets into the bowel in the first place, and why they are usually gone again by the time the cancer starts to grow. Therefore, if we were to think about eradicating these “bad bugs”, how we might be able to do that isn’t clear either.

    “It’s also possible that these apparently “bad bugs” are actually playing a role in maintaining the overall health of the bowel microbiome: indeed these bugs have been used as a probiotic in some countries in the past years. Eradicating them might have unexpected consequences for gut health.”

    How common are these strains of E.coli? Are they the same ones that cause food poisoning?

    “E. coli is a usual (normal) part of the human gut microbiome. Pks+ strains are very common in Europe and in many places around the world (where their frequency correlates with cancer incidence). Usually these strains wouldn’t cause food poisoning: indeed they have been used as probiotics to treat intestinal problems.”

    Does having this toxin mean you will definitely get young onset colorectal cancer?  Or is this association only seen in some cases where the patient has the genetic signature?

    “We don’t have definitive data on whether having the toxin means you will definitely get young-onset colorectal cancer: this study only looked at cancers themselves, not at the bowels of healthy people without cancer. So, it’s quite possible that pks+ E. coli are very common and only a few people with the “bad bugs” will actually go on to get bowel cancer. I think it is very likely cancer only occurs in some cases, because even though someone might have the “bad bugs” that cause mutations, those bugs have to cause the right mutations to make a cancer grow.”

    Prof Julian Peto, Professor of Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, said:

    “The paper shows that mutational signatures in colorectal cancer vary between countries, which is good evidence of regional differences in environmental exposures. However, the observation that colibactin signatures are commoner in young colorectal cancers is not good evidence that increasing colibactin exposure is an important cause of the recent increase in colorectal cancer in successive generations born since the 1950s. An equally plausible explanation of these data is that the incidence of colorectal cancers (CRCs) caused by early exposure to colibactin (like CRCs caused by inherited APC mutations) rises less steeply with age than for the majority of CRCs. Their hypothesis should be tested by similar studies on stored histology samples from CRCs diagnosed in successive periods. That would show whether there has been a secular increase in the proportion of CRCs with these signatures.”

    Comment provided by our friends at the Spanish SMC:

    Dr Isabel Portillo, coordinator of Colorectal and Prenatal Cancer Screenings for the Basque Health Service-Osakidetza, researcher in the Cancer Biomarkers group at the Biobizkaia Health Research Institute, and secretary of the Board of Directors of the Spanish Society of Epidemiology, said:

    Does the press release accurately reflect the study?

    “Yes, it reflects the issue and the possible association with a biomarker that was under study.”

    Is the study of good quality?

    “Yes, it presents a well-founded discussion and acknowledges the uncertainties and the need for further studies to confirm and demonstrate the role of the microbiome and its potential beneficial effect, although the association of colibactin with colorectal cancer in young people and in other age groups requires more retrospective and prospective research. It’s surprising that there is no mention of possible environmental and dietary risk factors or healthy habits, which are also related.”

    How does this work fit in with the existing evidence?

    “It is new evidence of a possible marker associated with colorectal cancer.”

    Have the authors considered confounding factors?

    “They have been considered; however, the focus is more on genetic analyses than on the interaction with other factors.”

    What are the real-world implications?

    “Basic research. It is still too early to say that there is only one biomarker, or whether it can be neutralized and how.

    “I believe this research is highly relevant for advancing our understanding of the origin and development of cancer (both colorectal cancer and others related to the same markers).”

    ‘Geographic and age variations in mutational processes in colorectal cancer’ by Marcos Díaz-Gay et al. was published in Nature at 16:00 UK time on Wednesday 23 April 2025.

    DOI: 10.1038/s41586-025-09025-8 (2025)

    Declared interests

    Dr Isabel Portillo: no conflicts of interest.

    For all other experts, no response to our request for DOIs was received.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: At the XV Eurasian Economic Youth Forum in Yekaterinburg, Vladimir Stroyev shared his experience in implementing DPO programs

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    On April 23, 2025, the rector of the State University of Management Vladimir Stroyev took part in the XV Eurasian Economic Youth Forum “Eurasian Synergy: Multipolarity – Integration – Dialogue of Civilizations”.

    The Eurasian Economic Youth Forum (EEYF) is being held from April 21 to 25 in Yekaterinburg at the Ural State University of Economics. More than 20,000 people from 116 countries, representing 209 universities, are taking part in the Forum.

    Rector of the State University of Management Vladimir Stroyev gave a report on the topic “Experience of the Eurasian Network University in implementing programs of additional professional education in the EAEU space.”

    Vladimir Vitalyevich told the audience that in 2022, the State University of Management was one of the initiators of the creation of the scientific and educational consortium “Eurasian Network University” – a project that united more than 30 universities from 7 states of the Eurasian space: Russia, Belarus, Armenia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, as well as universities of Uzbekistan and Transnistria as observers. More distant countries, such as Iran or Cuba, are also showing interest in joining the ENU. The ENU Secretariat is based at the State University of Management and carries out the necessary operational activities of the consortium.

    The rector of the State University of Management reported that in 2024 alone, with the support of Rossotrudnichestvo, 18 additional professional education programs were implemented, for the implementation of which 324 quotas were allocated. Among the program areas: management, marketing, management in the field of science and education, logistics and others. The programs turned out to be especially in demand in Belarus, 260 citizens of the union state studied under them. In-person strategic sessions on additional professional education programs were also held in Belarus, at the Russian House in Minsk.

    The basis of the DPO programs is a modular-block structure developed on the basis of the experience accumulated at the State University of Management. The program can be assembled from modules of different levels of complexity, duration of training and technologies for conducting educational events.

    “One example of a successfully implemented educational initiative of the State University of Management is the program “Strategic Planning and Macroeconomic Forecasting: Theoretical Foundations and Practice of the EAEU”. It is interesting because it was developed not only by specialists of the State University of Management, but also by teachers of the Belarusian State University of Economics, as well as leading experts of the Eurasian Economic Commission. Last year, 27 specialists from the EAEU countries successfully completed training within the framework of this program,” said Vladimir Stroyev.

    In conclusion of the report, the rector of the State University of Management noted that participation in such advanced training programs is becoming a driver for the development of trade and economic relations between Eurasian states, providing their participants with the opportunity to get acquainted with the experience and best business practices in the EAEU countries, and establish business contacts. Feedback received from participants in the additional professional education programs shows a high interest in such educational projects in the EAEU countries, which is largely due to the absence of a language barrier, and this makes the learning process more effective.

    Photo from the official website of the EEFM.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 23.04.2025

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: XRP News: XploraDEX Enters Day 2 of Token Distribution—Presale Still Open as Early Investors Rush to Join XRPL’s Smartest DEX

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ZURICH, Switzerland, April 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The second day of $XPL Token distribution is underway, and momentum is only accelerating. As wallets across the XRP community continue to receive their allocations, a final wave of investor activity is sweeping into the XploraDEX presale window—still open for a limited time.

    After kicking off its token distribution just 24 hours ago, XploraDEX has triggered a new surge of excitement across social media, wallet trackers, and trading circles. With over 76% of $XPL tokens already allocated, this moment marks the final phase of the presale and the official transition into XRPL’s first live AI-powered DEX ecosystem.

    Buy $XPL Token Now

    While early adopters are already seeing tokens in their wallets, new investors still have time to join at presale pricing—but not for long. This is the last stretch before $XPL lists on decentralized exchanges at a higher price point and staking, governance, and dashboard access go fully live.

    Here’s what’s happening today:

    • Batch 2 of $XPL token distribution is now in progress
    • Presale window remains open during the 7-day distribution phase
    • Thousands of wallets already activated for staking and governance
    • Community buzz and whale wallet activity continue to climb

    Participate in $XPL Presale

    XploraDEX isn’t just delivering tokens—it’s delivering access. The platform blends real-time AI insights with on-chain execution, giving users:

    • Automated trading strategies based on machine learning
    • Early access to Launchpad deals for new XRPL projects
    • Smart portfolio management and live performance alerts
    • Staking pools, rewards programs, and discounted trading fees

    With each day of distribution, the window to be early grows smaller. Traders joining now aren’t just buying into a vision—they’re gaining direct access to infrastructure already rolling out in real time.

    Join $XPL Presale

    Why this matters:

    Most projects wait until post-launch to deliver utility. XploraDEX is building in public—and distributing tokens while opening platform features step by step. Investors who secure $XPL during this window will have first-mover access to DeFi’s most intelligent trading protocol on XRPL.

    This is more than a presale update. It’s a countdown.

    Secure Your $XPL Tokens Before the Presale Closes: https://sale.xploradex.io

    Live Updates on Launch: Website | $XPL Token Presale | X | Telegram

    Contact:
    Oliver Muller
    oliver@xploradex.io
    contact@xploradex.io

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by the XploraDEX. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.

    Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.

    Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3efe82bd-887c-4b49-99f2-7e444e3aee59

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: TGS Webcast Details for Q1 2025 Presentation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Oslo, Norway (23 April 2025) – TGS, a leading global provider of energy data and intelligence will release its Q1 2025 results at approximately 07:00 a.m. CEST on 9 May 2025. CEO Kristian Johansen and CFO Sven Børre Larsen will present the results at 09:00 a.m. CEST at House of Oslo, Ruseløkkveien 34 in Oslo, Norway.

    The presentation is open to the public and will be webcasted live.

    Access and registration for webcast attendees are available by copying and pasting the link below into your browser, or use the link on the front page of www.tgs.com:
    https://channel.royalcast.com/landingpage/hegnarmedia/20250509_2/

    The Q1 2025 earnings release and presentation will be available on www.newsweb.no and www.tgs.com.

    For more information, visit TGS.com (http://www.tgs.com) or contact:

    Bård Stenberg, VP IR & Communication
    Mobile: +47 992 45 235
    E-mail: investor@tgs.com

    About TGS
    TGS provides advanced data and intelligence to companies active in the energy sector. With leading-edge technology and solutions spanning the entire energy value chain, TGS offers a comprehensive range of insights to help clients make better decisions. Our broad range of products and advanced data technologies, coupled with a global, extensive and diverse energy data library, make TGS a trusted partner in supporting the exploration and production of energy resources worldwide. For further information, please visit www.tgs.com (https://www.tgs.com/).

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Radware Finds 57% of Online Shopping Traffic Now Bots, Not Buyers

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MAHWAH, N.J., April 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  Radware® (NASDAQ: RDWR), a global leader in application security and delivery solutions for multi-cloud environments, today released its “2025 E-commerce Bot Threat Report.” The report found that automated bots—good and bad bots—accounted for 57% of e-commerce website traffic during the 2024 holiday season. It marks the first time that automated, non-DDoS generating bots drove more traffic than human shoppers, signaling a critical shift in the cybersecurity landscape for e-commerce providers and online retailers.

    “Bad bots are no longer just based on simple scripts—they’re sophisticated, AI-enhanced agents capable of outsmarting traditional defenses,” said Ron Meyran, vice president of cyber threat intelligence at Radware. “E-commerce providers and online retailers that rely on conventional security measures will find themselves increasingly exposed, not just during the holidays but year-round.”

    The report highlights major bot attack trends and real-world attack data observed during the 2024 online holiday shopping season. In addition, it offers insights into the distributed, multi-vector attacks e-commerce providers and retailers can expect to battle this year.

    Key findings and insights

    • AI-generated bots with human-like behavior gain dominance: According to the report, bad bots made up 31% of total internet traffic during the last holiday season. Nearly 60% of the malicious traffic employed advanced behavioral techniques to evade traditional, signature-based detection. Combating these bots requires accurate AI-powered detection of attack patterns, including rotating IPs and identities, distributed attacks, CAPTCHA farm services, and other advanced anomalies, without causing false positives.
    • Mobile-focused attacks surge: Malicious bot traffic directed at mobile platforms rose 160% between the 2023 and 2024 holiday shopping seasons, representing a fundamental shift in attacker focus. Security strategies need to be shored up and tailored for vulnerable mobile platforms and attackers using more sophisticated techniques, including mobile emulators, mobile-specific proxies, and headless browsers with mobile user-agent strings.
    • Attacks leveraging distributed infrastructures and residential proxy networks increase: The proportion of holiday attack traffic originating from and blending in with ISP networks increased 32% between 2023 and 2024. Attackers are leveraging wider network and residential proxy services to evade rate-limiting, geo-based, and IP-based blocking mechanisms, creating even greater mitigation challenges for security teams working without advanced, multi-layered protections.
    • Coordinated multi-vector attack campaigns escalate: To maximize their success, attackers are targeting applications by combining bot attacks with web application vulnerability exploits, business logic attacks, and API-focused attacks. Protecting already burdened security systems requires an integrated application security strategy that uses the latest threat intelligence and cross-correlates security threats across security modules.

    Radware will be addressing the new report and advanced protection strategies during the RSA 2025 Conference at the Moscone Center in San Francisco (booth #S-1227). The event takes place April 28–May 1, 2025.

    Radware’s complete bot report can be downloaded here.

    About Radware
    Radware® (NASDAQ: RDWR) is a global leader in application security and delivery solutions for multi-cloud environments. The company’s cloud application, infrastructure, and API security solutions use AI-driven algorithms for precise, hands-free, real-time protection from the most sophisticated web, application, and DDoS attacks, API abuse, and bad bots. Enterprises and carriers worldwide rely on Radware’s solutions to address evolving cybersecurity challenges and protect their brands and business operations while reducing costs. For more information, please visit the Radware website.

    Radware encourages you to join our community and follow us on: Facebook, LinkedIn, Radware Blog, X, and YouTube.

    ©2025 Radware Ltd. All rights reserved. Any Radware products and solutions mentioned in this press release are protected by trademarks, patents, and pending patent applications of Radware in the U.S. and other countries. For more details, please see: https://www.radware.com/LegalNotice/. All other trademarks and names are property of their respective owners.

    THIS PRESS RELEASE AND 2025 E-COMMERCE BOT THREAT REPORT ARE PROVIDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. THESE MATERIALS ARE NOT INTENDED TO BE AN INDICATOR OF RADWARE’S BUSINESS PERFORMANCE OR OPERATING RESULTS FOR ANY PRIOR, CURRENT, OR FUTURE PERIOD.

    Radware believes the information in this document is accurate in all material respects as of its publication date. However, the information is provided without any express, statutory, or implied warranties and is subject to change without notice.

    The contents of any website or hyperlinks mentioned in this press release are for informational purposes and the contents thereof are not part of this press release.

    Safe Harbor Statement
    This press release includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Any statements made herein that are not statements of historical fact, including statements about Radware’s plans, outlook, beliefs, or opinions, are forward-looking statements. Generally, forward-looking statements may be identified by words such as “believes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “estimates,” “plans,” and similar expressions or future or conditional verbs such as “will,” “should,” “would,” “may,” and “could.” For example, when we say in this press release that e-commerce providers and online retailers that rely on conventional security measures will find themselves increasingly exposed, not just during the holidays but year-round, we are using forward-looking statements. Because such statements deal with future events, they are subject to various risks and uncertainties, and actual results, expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, could differ materially from Radware’s current forecasts and estimates. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to: the impact of global economic conditions, including as a result of the state of war declared in Israel in October 2023 and instability in the Middle East, the war in Ukraine, tensions between China and Taiwan, financial and credit market fluctuations (including elevated interest rates), impacts from tariffs or other trade restrictions, inflation, and the potential for regional or global recessions; our dependence on independent distributors to sell our products; our ability to manage our anticipated growth effectively; our business may be affected by sanctions, export controls, and similar measures, targeting Russia and other countries and territories, as well as other responses to Russia’s military conflict in Ukraine, including indefinite suspension of operations in Russia and dealings with Russian entities by many multi-national businesses across a variety of industries; the ability of vendors to provide our hardware platforms and components for the manufacture of our products; our ability to attract, train, and retain highly qualified personnel; intense competition in the market for cybersecurity and application delivery solutions and in our industry in general, and changes in the competitive landscape; our ability to develop new solutions and enhance existing solutions; the impact to our reputation and business in the event of real or perceived shortcomings, defects, or vulnerabilities in our solutions, if our end-users experience security breaches, or if our information technology systems and data, or those of our service providers and other contractors, are compromised by cyber-attackers or other malicious actors or by a critical system failure; our use of AI technologies that present regulatory, litigation, and reputational risks; risks related to the fact that our products must interoperate with operating systems, software applications and hardware that are developed by others;  outages, interruptions, or delays in hosting services; the risks associated with our global operations, such as difficulties and costs of staffing and managing foreign operations, compliance costs arising from host country laws or regulations, partial or total expropriation, export duties and quotas, local tax exposure, economic or political instability, including as a result of insurrection, war, natural disasters, and major environmental, climate, or public health concerns; our net losses in the past and the possibility that we may incur losses in the future; a slowdown in the growth of the cybersecurity and application delivery solutions market or in the development of the market for our cloud-based solutions; long sales cycles for our solutions; risks and uncertainties relating to acquisitions or other investments; risks associated with doing business in countries with a history of corruption or with foreign governments; changes in foreign currency exchange rates; risks associated with undetected defects or errors in our products; our ability to protect our proprietary technology; intellectual property infringement claims made by third parties; laws, regulations, and industry standards affecting our business; compliance with open source and third-party licenses; complications with the design or implementation of our new enterprise resource planning (“ERP”) system; our reliance on information technology systems; our ESG disclosures and initiatives; and other factors and risks over which we may have little or no control. This list is intended to identify only certain of the principal factors that could cause actual results to differ. For a more detailed description of the risks and uncertainties affecting Radware, refer to Radware’s Annual Report on Form 20-F, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and the other risk factors discussed from time to time by Radware in reports filed with, or furnished to, the SEC. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made and, except as required by applicable law, Radware undertakes no commitment to revise or update any forward-looking statement in order to reflect events or circumstances after the date any such statement is made. Radware’s public filings are available from the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or may be obtained on Radware’s website at www.radware.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Police accountability reforms to enter Parliament

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Police accountability reforms to enter Parliament

    Police officers will be given greater confidence to carry out their roles, with reforms to the systems that hold them to account set to enter Parliament.

    Getty Images

    The government will table an amendment to the flagship Crime and Policing Bill later this week to provide a presumption of anonymity for firearms officers who are subject to a criminal trial following a shooting.

    This will apply during court proceedings and in media reporting up until the point of conviction.

    Improving policing systems is a crucial part of making our streets safer under the Plan for Change, and this move addresses specific concerns raised during the accountability review about the risks firearms officers face from criminal gangs and will protect them and their families against any such threat.

    Three measures to improve the timeliness and appropriateness of investigations into police use of force and the rights of victims will also be also included in the bill:

    1. Aligning the threshold for referrals by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) of officers to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to that used by police when referring cases involving members of the public. This is to avoid the system being clogged up with cases, allowing greater focus and swifter resolution of those that are referred.

    2. Speeding up processes by allowing the IOPC to send cases to the CPS where there is sufficient evidence, prior to their final investigation report.

    3. Putting the IOPC victims’ right to review policy on a statutory footing to ensure the voices of victims and their families are heard.

    This is a crucial step in delivering measures set out by the Home Secretary to parliament in October, in which she set out a package of reforms to rebuild confidence for police officers and communities. The measures are designed to tackle unacceptable delays and confusion in the system, to ensure that the complexity of specialist operations is considered at an early stage, and that the highest standards within policing are upheld and maintained.

    Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said:

    The proud British tradition of policing by consent depends on mutual bonds of trust between the police and the communities they serve. That’s why we have set out an ambitious package of measures to rebuild both public trust in policing and the confidence of police officers in their vital work to keep the public safe.

    Police officers in specialist roles who make split-second decisions to keep the public safe must have the confidence to carry out their duties, knowing that the systems which hold them to account for their decisions are fair.

    Too often those processes have involved unacceptable delays and confusion, which has been damaging both for the police and the public. These changes will help to boost confidence that the system will work swiftly and effectively for all those involved.

    The accountability review found that the current system for holding police officers to account is not commanding the confidence of either the public or the police, with misconduct proceedings too often plagued by delays stretching for years, which is damaging for complainants, police officers and police forces alike.

    Alongside the changes being made in the Crime and Policing Bill, the Director for Public Prosecutions has already completed a review of CPS guidance and processes in relation to charging police officers for offences committed in the course of their duties. Revised guidance provides greater clarity for prosecutors, ensuring the dynamic and fast-changing nature of specialist policing decisions are taken into account when charging decisions are made.

    Metropolitan Police Commissioner, Sir Mark Rowley, said:

    The progress that has been made on vital accountability reform should be welcomed. In particular, I am very pleased to see that the previous commitment on anonymity for firearms officers subject to criminal trials is going to be introduced as an amendment to legislation going through Parliament.

    We know further reform is needed if officers are to have full confidence in the system that holds them to account but alongside our policing partners we are working positively and constructively with the government and that work will continue.

    Lead of the National Police Chiefs’ Council Operations Coordination Committee and the Senior Responsible Officer for the accountability review, Chief Constable BJ Harrington, said:

    We welcome today’s announcement. These are positive changes which will ensure that the public interest is served, and that police officers and staff will have the confidence to protect the public and uphold the law.

    Everyone in policing expects to be held to account for their actions and use of powers. However, too often we hear of the devastating, and often disproportionate, impact on officers, staff and their families after they have stepped forward with courage and professionalism on behalf of the public.

    Whether it’s an issue concerning use of force, death following contact with the police, police driving or where officers are alleged to have broken the law, it is important that the accountability mechanism is swift, balanced, and fair. This in turn will give our people the confidence to fulfil their duties, and the public confidence in their professionalism and decision making.

    We remain determined to get police accountability right and we will support government to improve the current accountability system to ensure community support, and importantly, to give police officers and staff the knowledge that where they act, to do the right things for the right reasons, they have the support to do their job of tackling crime and protecting the public.

    This comes as the government has today set out further reforms to rebuild public confidence in policing, including new regulations to ensure police chiefs can automatically sack officers who fail background checks, allowing them to root out those who are unfit to serve.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: With love for nature: the GUU garden continues to grow

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    On April 23, the Institute of Marketing of the State University of Management held the campaign “Let’s Revive the Apple Orchard”.

    Under the direction of the institute’s director Gennady Azoev, teachers and students planted pears and plums of various varieties on the main campus square. The planted trees were whitewashed.

    During the planting work, Gennady Lazarevich shared his wisdom and told how to properly prepare the soil for planting trees, what expanded clay is needed for, how deep to place the seedling and how to care for it at first so that the tree takes root and bears fruit.

    “For example, frosts are expected soon, which fall just during the flowering period. This is very dangerous for this year’s harvest and young trees. Our seedlings have a strong root system and therefore will definitely be able to survive this period,” noted the director of the Marketing Institute.

    Let us recall that at the beginning of April, students and teachers of the institute brought the trees growing on the campus territory into a well-groomed condition.

    Also on April 23, flowers and trees were planted on the initiative of students as part of the project “GUU Garden”, which is participating in the grant competition of our university. Blue peonies and hydrangeas will soon bloom near the 6th dormitory, and spreading willows will bloom along the road near the Sports Complex.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 23.04.2025

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: WISeKey Expands Implementation of Digital Identity Solutions from Seychelles to Africa: Empowering Nations with Secure National ID Systems

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WISeKey Expands Implementation of Digital Identity Solutions from Seychelles to Africa: Empowering Nations with Secure National ID Systems

    Geneva, Switzerland – April 23, 2025 — WISeKey International Holding Ltd (“WISeKey”) (SIX: WIHN, NASDAQ: WKEY), a leading global cybersecurity, blockchain, and IoT company, today announces that following the successful implementation of “SeyID” in the Seychelles, it is extending proven digital identity solutions to other African nations to help them modernize and secure their national identification systems.

    Since 2022, WISeKey has collaborated with the government of Seychelles to launch SeyID, a comprehensive, secure, and user-friendly digital ID platform. Designed to integrate seamlessly with both public and private sector services, SeyID is now serving as a model for other African nations looking to establish or upgrade their national identity infrastructure.

    A Blueprint for Digital Transformation

    The SeyID platform leverages WISeKey’s trusted WISeID digital identity technology, which provides citizens with a mobile-accessible, secure virtual ID linked to key public services. These include healthcare, government portals, and the tourism industry, vital economic pillars for Seychelles.

    Through SeyID, citizens are able to complement their traditional physical ID cards with a virtual identity stored securely on their smartphones, making authentication easier and services more accessible. Tourists visiting Seychelles can also generate a digital Tourist ID using SeyID, which offers a frictionless digital experience while allowing visitors to access local services. This innovation has positioned Seychelles as a digital pioneer in the African region, providing a strong example of how national digital identity platforms can support economic growth and government efficiency.

    Scaling the Model Across Africa

    WISeKey is now in discussions with several African governments to replicate the SeyID model, tailoring it to meet local needs and regulatory frameworks. These next-generation digital ID solutions aim to:

    • Promote Financial Inclusion by enabling secure digital onboarding and Know Your Customer (KYC) compliance for banking services;
    • Streamline Public Administration by digitizing identity verification for social programs, healthcare, and education;
    • Enhance Tourism and Cross-Border Travel with digital tourist ID systems similar to that of Seychelles; and,
    • Protect Citizen Data with robust Swiss-grade cybersecurity and encryption.

    Use Cases: National Digital IDs as Catalysts for Economic Growth

    1. Digital Financial Services:
      A national digital ID allows unbanked populations to open bank accounts, access credit, and use mobile payment platforms securely, boosting participation in the formal economy and reducing reliance on cash.
    2. e-Government Services:
      Digital IDs facilitate efficient delivery of public services such as tax filing, business registration, land ownership verification, and social welfare programs, increasing transparency and reducing corruption.
    3. Agricultural Supply Chains:
      Farmers can register digitally to receive subsidies, track inputs, and access markets. This fosters trust, increases productivity, and reduces fraud in government support schemes.
    4. Healthcare Access:
      Verified digital IDs help in creating unified health records, ensuring that citizens receive timely, targeted, and secure healthcare, even across borders through regional interoperability.
    5. Job Market Activation:
      With a verifiable identity, citizens can access vocational training, apply for jobs online, and participate in gig economy platforms, driving workforce participation and economic inclusion.
    6. Entrepreneurship & Innovation:
      Startups and SMEs can benefit from streamlined licensing and easier access to investment through identity-based digital platforms, reducing bureaucratic delays and stimulating innovation.
    7. Tourism Growth:
      Digital tourist IDs simplify visa issuance, hotel check-ins, and tourist service access, creating a smoother visitor experience and increasing tourism revenues.
    8. Education & Youth Empowerment:
      Digital IDs allow students to enroll in programs, access e-learning platforms, and validate academic credentials, enhancing skills development for the digital economy.
    9. A Human-Centered, Privacy-First Approach

    WISeKey’s approach is grounded in respecting human dignity and data privacy. All identities created under its platforms are anchored in the OISTE.ORG Root of Trust, a globally recognized cryptographic trust model that guarantees sovereign control over digital identities.

    With the support of international development agencies and local governments, WISeKey is set to deliver customized digital ID solutions that are interoperable, future-proof, and aligned with international standards for data protection and digital governance.

    As Africa accelerates its digital transformation, WISeKey’s expansion beyond Seychelles marks a critical step in ensuring that secure, inclusive, and innovative identity solutions are at the heart of the continent’s technological and economic future.

    For more information, visit www.wisekey.com or follow WISeKey on LinkedIn and Twitter.

    About WISeKey

    WISeKey International Holding Ltd (“WISeKey”, SIX: WIHN; Nasdaq: WKEY) is a global leader in cybersecurity, digital identity, and IoT solutions platform. It operates as a Swiss-based holding company through several operational subsidiaries, each dedicated to specific aspects of its technology portfolio. The subsidiaries include (i) SEALSQ Corp (Nasdaq: LAES), which focuses on semiconductors, PKI, and post-quantum technology products, (ii) WISeKey SA which specializes in RoT and PKI solutions for secure authentication and identification in IoT, Blockchain, and AI, (iii) WISeSat AG which focuses on space technology for secure satellite communication, specifically for IoT applications, (iv) WISe.ART Corp which focuses on trusted blockchain NFTs and operates the WISe.ART marketplace for secure NFT transactions, and (v) SEALCOIN AG which focuses on decentralized physical internet with DePIN technology and house the development of the SEALCOIN platform.

    Each subsidiary contributes to WISeKey’s mission of securing the internet while focusing on their respective areas of research and expertise. Their technologies seamlessly integrate into the comprehensive WISeKey platform. WISeKey secures digital identity ecosystems for individuals and objects using Blockchain, AI, and IoT technologies. With over 1.6 billion microchips deployed across various IoT sectors, WISeKey plays a vital role in securing the Internet of Everything. The company’s semiconductors generate valuable Big Data that, when analyzed with AI, enable predictive equipment failure prevention. Trusted by the OISTE/WISeKey cryptographic Root of Trust, WISeKey provides secure authentication and identification for IoT, Blockchain, and AI applications. The WISeKey Root of Trust ensures the integrity of online transactions between objects and people. For more information on WISeKey’s strategic direction and its subsidiary companies, please visit www.wisekey.com.

    Disclaimer
    This communication expressly or implicitly contains certain forward-looking statements concerning WISeKey International Holding Ltd and its business. Such statements involve certain known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which could cause the actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements of WISeKey International Holding Ltd to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. WISeKey International Holding Ltd is providing this communication as of this date and does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    This press release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities, and it does not constitute an offering prospectus within the meaning of the Swiss Financial Services Act (“FinSA”), the FinSa’s predecessor legislation or advertising within the meaning of the FinSA. Investors must rely on their own evaluation of WISeKey and its securities, including the merits and risks involved. Nothing contained herein is, or shall be relied on as, a promise or representation as to the future performance of WISeKey.

    Press and Investor Contacts

    WISeKey International Holding Ltd
    Company Contact: Carlos Moreira
    Chairman & CEO
    Tel: +41 22 594 3000
    info@wisekey.com     		 WISeKey Investor Relations (US) 
    The Equity Group Inc.
    Lena Cati
    Tel: +1 212 836-9611
    lcati@equityny.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Coop Pank held an investor webinar to introduce unaudited results of Q1 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    On Wednesday, 23 April 2025 at 9 am (EET), Coop Pank held an investor webinar, where the Chairman of the Board Margus Rink and the Chief Financial Officer Paavo Truu introduced the bank’s unaudited financial results of First Quarter of 2025. Webinar was held in Estonian language. 

    Coop Pank would like to thank all participants. Webinar recording is available here:
    https://youtu.be/pWHBsVjOwUI

    Coop Pank’s report for unaudited results of Q1 2025 and the presentation is available here:
    https://view.news.eu.nasdaq.com/view?id=bbb5642fa5392e27df29e013b9455d65a&lang=en

    Coop Pank, based on Estonian capital, is one of the five universal banks operating in Estonia. The number of clients using Coop Pank for their daily banking has reached 213,000. Coop Pank aims to put the synergy generated by the interaction of retail business and banking to good use and to bring everyday banking services closer to people’s homes. The strategic shareholder of the bank is the domestic retail chain Coop Eesti comprising 320 stores.

    Additional information:
    Katre Tatrik
    Communication Manager
    Tel: +372 5151 859
    E-mail: katre.tatrik@cooppank.ee

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Double Deposit Bonus. 100x Leverage. No KYC. Crypto Futures Trading Made Easy on BexBack.

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, April 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With Bitcoin’s price fluctuating below $100,000, many analysts predict a prolonged period of high volatility in the crypto market. Holding spot positions may struggle to generate short-term profits in such conditions. As a result, 100x leverage futures trading has become the preferred tool for seasoned investors looking to maximize potential gains in this volatile market. BexBack Exchange is ramping up its efforts to offer traders unmatched promotional packages. The platform now features a 100% deposit bonus, a $50 welcome bonus for new users, and 100x leverage on cryptocurrency trading, providing exceptional opportunities for investors.

    Advantages of 100x Leverage Crypto Futures

    1. Amplified Profits: Control large positions with a small amount of capital, capturing more profits from market fluctuations.
    2. Low Capital Requirement: Participate in high-value trades with minimal investment, lowering the entry barrier.
    3. Increased Market Opportunities: Profit quickly from price fluctuations, especially in volatile markets.
    4. High Capital Efficiency: Leverage enables better use of your capital, expanding your investment potential.
    5. Profit from Both Up and Down Markets: Adapt to any market conditions, with opportunities to profit whether the market goes up or down.

    What Is 100x Leverage and How Does It Work?

    Simply put, 100x leverage allows you to open larger trading positions with less capital. For example:

    Suppose the Bitcoin price is $100,000 that day, and you open a long contract with 1 BTC. After using 100x leverage, the transaction amount is equivalent to 100 BTC.

    One day later, if the price rises to $105,000, your profit will be (105,000 – 100,000) * 100 BTC / 100,000 = 5 BTC, a yield of up to 500%.

    With BexBack’s deposit bonus

    BexBack offers a 100% deposit bonus. If the initial investment is 2 BTC, the profit will increase to 10 BTC, and the return on investment will double to 1000%.

    Note: Although leveraged trading can magnify profits, you also need to be wary of liquidation risks.

    How Does the 100% Deposit Bonus Work?
    The deposit bonus from BexBack cannot be directly withdrawn but can be used to open larger positions and increase potential profits. Additionally, during significant market fluctuations, the bonus can serve as extra margin, effectively reducing the risk of liquidation.

    About BexBack?

    BexBack is a leading cryptocurrency derivatives platform that offers 100x leverage on BTC, ETH, ADA, SOL, and XRP futures contracts. It is headquartered in Singapore with offices in Hong Kong, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Argentina. It holds a US MSB (Money Services Business) license and is trusted by more than 500,000 traders worldwide. Accepts users from the United States, Canada, and Europe. There are no deposit fees, and traders can get the most thoughtful service, including 24/7 customer support.

    Why recommend BexBack?

    No KYC Required: Start trading immediately without complex identity verification.

    100% Deposit Bonus: Double your funds, double your profits.

    High-Leverage Trading: Offers up to 100x leverage, maximizing investors’ capital efficiency.

    Demo Account: Comes with 10 BTC in virtual funds, ideal for beginners to practice risk-free trading.

    Comprehensive Trading Options: Feature-rich trading available via Web and mobile applications.

    Convenient Operation: No slippage, no spread, and fast, precise trade execution.

    Global User Support: Enjoy 24/7 customer service, no matter where you are.

    Lucrative Affiliate Rewards: Earn up to 50% commission, perfect for promoters.

    Take Action Now—Don’t Miss Another Opportunity!

    If you missed the previous crypto bull run, this could be your chance. With BexBack’s 100x leverage and 100% deposit bonus and $50 bonus for new users (complete one trade within one week of registration), you can be a winner in the new bull run.

    Sign Up Now on BexBack — Break the 100x Leverage and KYC Barriers, Get Double Deposit Bonus and $50 Welcome Bonus Instantly

    Website: www.bexback.com

    Contact: business@bexback.com

    Contact:
    Amanda
    business@bexback.com

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by BexBack. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.
    Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.
    Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/97e079f0-51fe-4aa5-b650-32ad25c0ed46

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/bbe9b29b-6864-4490-9a02-19682e29647f

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/938714d4-0d45-4127-8bbe-a1186c371fe9

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/899c3f9f-d215-4359-a869-2814e0aa694c

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Commitment to safeguarding democracy

    Source: Scottish Government

    Civic, faith, trade unions and political leaders commit to action.

    Civic, faith, trade union and political leaders have committed to taking action to safeguard Scotland’s democracy and tackle people’s feeling of being unheard and disempowered.

    At a gathering of representatives from across society, the First Minister described the pledge as demonstrating a ‘strength of unity’ which reflects the democratic values felt by communities across the country. 

    Today’s event saw more than 50 leaders meet in Glasgow to assess the robustness of Scotland’s democratic system. Across the day, there were focused discussions, moderated by civic leaders, on four key themes which are contributing to a breakdown in democratic trust, including:

    • combating inequality and discrimination
    • tackling disinformation and ensuring a trusted media environment  
    • enhancing trust in politics and boosting the accountability of political leaders and democratic institutions
    • strengthening vigilance to electoral interference and encouraging more active democratic participation

    Following discussions, participants considered a mission statement that seeks to provide a framework that can underpin specific actions and solutions to help tackle some of the issues identified.  

    The statement reads:  

    STRENGTHENING AND PROTECTING DEMOCRACY IN SCOTLAND 

    Today, we reaffirm our commitment to safeguard Scotland’s democracy. 

    We recognise many people in our country feel distant from politics or failed by society. They feel unheard and disempowered.  

    We recognise also that much of our public discourse has become polarised and soured. 

    Our starting point has been a recognition of that reality and, alongside this, a recognition also that the solutions, which will be manifold and complex, require a collective response. 

    We have a shared responsibility to map a way forward for Scotland, which is why we are committed to working together to ensure that our democratic structures evolve to meet our democratic ideals and are both trusted and robust. 

    There are certain fundamental principles and values that are already part of our understanding of Scottish democracy, rooted in the creation of the Scottish Parliament, that we believe should shape and guide our work. 

    These are: 

    Participation and openness 

    The sharing of power 

    Accountability 

    Equal opportunity 

    We stand together on these principles and values, recognising that they offer both a foundation on which to build and markers to guide this next stage of our nation’s democratic journey. 

    I pledge my support. 

    Speaking after the event, First Minister John Swinney said: 

    “Our discussion was incredibly powerful and equally inspiring. I am grateful to the many representatives from across Scottish society who shared their honest reflections on the challenges we face, alongside their absolute determination to work together to ensure we stand up for the values and principles we hold so dear. 

    “Today’s event is a pivotal moment for Scotland as we demonstrate our shared commitment to democracy but to make that a reality, we must now work at pace to ensure targeted action delivers results. By coming together, we have started that process, with all participants committed to developing actions that can address some of the root causes of the challenges facing our country. I pledge my government’s absolute support for that work, to ensure we leave no stone unturned in identifying solutions and empowering the disempowered who so often feel left behind. 

    “We can only protect the rights of each citizen, if we protect, strengthen and renew our democratic values. By reaffirming our commitment to safeguarding democracy in Scotland, we have demonstrated a strength of unity which will guide us in our actions.” 

    Following the gathering, political and civic leaders taking part in the press conference pledged their support for the statement. They are: 

    • Anas Sarwar MSP – Leader, Scottish Labour  
    • Alex Cole-Hamilton MSP – Leader, Scottish Liberal Democrats  
    • Patrick Harvie MSP – Co-Convenor, Scottish Green Party  
    • Lorna Slater MSP – Co-Convenor, Scottish Green Party Leader  
    • Ash Regan MSP – Alba parliamentary leader  
    • Roz Foyer – General Secretary of the Scottish Trades Union Congress 
    • Sara Thiam – Chief Executive of Prosper  

    All delegates attending the gathering have been invited to take the statement to their organisation to seek agreement for pledging their support. Work will now be developed in partnership with participants to ensure actions are agreed and taken forward.  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Environment Agency clampdown on illegal use of cast nets

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Environment Agency clampdown on illegal use of cast nets

    A 42-year-old man was caught red-handed by Environment Agency officers when he attempted to use a cast net without permission on a canal in South Yorkshire.

    Image of the cast net.

    At Doncaster Magistrates’ Court on 2 April 2025, Jamie Ellis, of South Drive, Middleton-on-the-Wolds, Yorkshire, admitted fishing using an unauthorised means. He was ordered to pay a total of £580 made up of a £200 fine, £300 costs and a victim’s surcharge of £80.

    The use of cast nets requires permission from the Environment Agency. This is separate to a rod licence, and the offender did not have permission for a cast net in place.

    It is only granted in limited circumstances due to it being an indiscriminate and damaging method which can have huge impacts on fish stocks and wildlife.

    The court heard that on 13 January 2024, Environment Agency Fisheries Enforcement officers were patrolling the Staniforth and Keadby Canal in Thorne. They saw the defendant throw a cast net into the water, pull it back out, and then place it on the ground.

    The officers spoke to Ellis who admitted the net was his.

    When interviewed under caution, the defendant claimed it was the first time he had used such a net and had not caught any fish. He also said he had not been aware that he needed permission to use it. He had a rod licence but this does not include the use of a cast net.

    Kye Jerrom, a fisheries enforcement officer for the Environment Agency, said:

    “We hope this case serves as a cautionary tale to anyone who is thinking of breaking the rules.

    “Cast nets have the potential to cause huge impacts to fish stocks.

    “This is due to the damaging nature of how they work and the numbers of fish they can snare.

    “Our patrols are essential in preventing this type of fishing offence and to protect fish stocks for angling and nature.

    “If people suspect illegal fishing they should call our 24/7 hotline on 0800 807060.”

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Disposable vapes ban to be introduced from June

    Source: City of Derby

    From 1 June 2025 it will be illegal for businesses to sell or supply, offer to sell or supply, or have in their possession for sale or supply all single use vape products.

    The new legislation applies to all vapes whether they contain nicotine or not and will affect both sales in shop and online.

    A recent study identified that almost five million single use vapes were either littered or thrown away in general waste every week in the UK. Vape batteries contain lithium which can be recycled. This resource is lost when vapes are put in black bins as they end up either in landfill or being incinerated.

    Incorrect disposal can also lead to fires, posing a risk to waste management workers, the fire service, and the public.

    Derby City Council’s Trading Standards team will enforce the ban in the city, with several civil sanctions at their disposal including a stop notice, compliance notices, and fines of £200. Should a business continue to sell or supply vapes, they may be charged with an unlimited fine, a prison sentence up to two years, or both.

    For vapes to be considered reusable, replacement components (including the pre-filled pods, e-liquid refill bottles and coils) must be separately available to buy either in-store or online.

    Businesses can check whether a nicotine-containing vaping product is reusable on the MHRA website, but you must first consider the ‘definition of a reusable vape’ above to make sure the product is refillable and rechargeable.

    As this new legislation will have an impact particularly on small businesses Derby City Council’s Trading Standards team will be visiting selected retailers to offer guidance and support them in being compliant with the regulations.

    Councillor Shiraz Khan, Cabinet Member for Housing, Strategic Planning, and Regulatory Services, said: 

    Single use vapes present a real challenge for our environment, present a safety risk, and can take up valuable time for our waste management workers and emergency service. This new legislation will help us tackle the issues and make our city a cleaner place.

    Businesses should take the time now to prepare so they are not caught out after 1 June. If you need support or any advice around this legislation, please reach out to our Trading Standards team.

    For more information and advice about the ban, businesses can contact the Derby City Council trading standards team on 01332 642424 or by emailing environmental.services@derby.gov.uk.

    More guidance can be found on the Government website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: DfE Update: 23 April 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Correspondence

    DfE Update: 23 April 2025

    Latest information and actions from the Department for Education about funding, assurance and resource management, for academies, local authorities and further education providers.

    Applies to England

    Documents

    DfE Update further education: 23 April 2025

    HTML

    DfE Update academies: 23 April 2025

    HTML

    DfE Update local authorities: 23 April 2025

    HTML

    Details

    Latest for further education

    Article Title
    Action Further education (FE) college condition allocation for 2025 to 2026
    Information Advanced learner loans (ALL) – funding and performance management rules for 2025 to 2026, and maximum loan amounts
    Information Adult skills fund allocations for 2025 to 2026
    Information Universal infant free school meals (UIFSM) and further education free meals funding rate for 2025 to 2026
    Information Post-16 National Insurance contributions grant
    Information T Level uplift for 2025 to 2026
    Information Tailored Learning – new codes for cost contributions
    Your feedback Narrowing the digital divide in schools and colleges – contribute to the public consultation
    Your feedback Changes to the financial data submissions process for independent training providers, special-post 16 institutions and non-maintained special schools

    Latest information for academies

    Article Title
    Information Universal infant free school meals (UIFSM) and further education free meals funding rate for 2025 to 2026
    Information Allocations for the first payment of the breakfast club early adopters grant for the 2024 to 2025 academic year
    Information Grant allocations for academies for April to August 2025
    Information Budget forecast return (BFR) guidance and workbook update 2025
    Information Post-16 National Insurance contributions grant
    Information T Level uplift for 2025 to 2026
    Information Just launched – the new multi-academy trust (MAT) view on the ‘Plan technology for your school’ service
    Your feedback Narrowing the digital divide in schools and colleges – contribute to the public consultation
    Events and webinars Q&A drop-in sessions: Academies chart of accounts and automation
    Events and webinars Introduction to the academies chart of accounts and automation

    Latest information for local authorities

    Article Title
    Information Universal infant free school meals (UIFSM) and further education free meals funding rate for 2025 to 2026
    Information Allocations for the first payment of the breakfast club early adopters grant for the 2024 to 2025 academic year
    Information Launch of section 251 budget collection 2025 to 2026
    Information Advanced learner loans (ALL) – funding and performance management rules for 2025 to 2026, and maximum loan amounts
    Information Adult skills fund allocations for 2025 to 2026
    Information Post-16 National Insurance contributions grant
    Information T Level uplift for 2025 to 2026
    Information Tailored Learning – new codes for cost contributions
    Your feedback Narrowing the digital divide in schools and colleges – contribute to the public consultation

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 April 2025

    Sign up for emails or print this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MOFA response to Dutch House of Representatives passing four Taiwan-friendly motions

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    MOFA response to Dutch House of Representatives passing four Taiwan-friendly motions

    April 16, 2025  

    The House of Representatives of the Netherlands on April 15 adopted four Taiwan-friendly motions, urging the Dutch government to oppose China’s escalation of tensions, strengthen trade relations with Taiwan, send a high-level official delegation to Taiwan, and support Taiwan’s meaningful participation in the World Health Organization. The motions were proposed by House members from different parties, including Representative Jan Paternotte of Democrats 66, who is also cochair of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China for the Netherlands. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) sincerely welcomes and appreciates the high level of consensus that Dutch parliamentarians have shown in their support for Taiwan.

    The Dutch House of Representatives simultaneously passed four motions calling on the Dutch government to take a number of concrete actions to support Taiwan. It encouraged the government to oppose China’s launch of large-scale military exercises around Taiwan; attach great importance to cross-strait peace and send another warship through the Taiwan Strait; assist Taiwan in responding to the United States’ tariff policy and enhance economic and trade exchanges with Taiwan; promote high-level official visits between Taiwan and the Netherlands; and explicitly voice support for Taiwan’s participation in the World Health Assembly and other events. These motions concern Taiwan’s core interests and are therefore of great significance.

    Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung recognizes that Taiwan and the Netherlands have forged an increasingly close relationship, that support for Taiwan in the Dutch parliament has grown steadily year after year, and that the Netherlands is an important partner in the promotion of President Lai Ching-te’s Five Trusted Industry Sectors. Taiwan looks forward to engaging in further cooperation with the Netherlands in such critical domains as strengthening resilience of the semiconductor supply chain, security control and information security, and next-generation communications.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Moldovan authorities strengthen skills in handling severe airport incidents through OSCE and AIRPOL table-top exercise

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

    Headline: Moldovan authorities strengthen skills in handling severe airport incidents through OSCE and AIRPOL table-top exercise

    Moldovan authorities strengthen skills in handling severe airport incidents through OSCE and AIRPOL table-top exercise | OSCE
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  • MIL-OSI: Caro Holdings Launches AI Chat Agent Platform to Revolutionize Customer Service and Boost Business Efficiency

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SHEFFIELD, United Kingdom, April 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Caro Holdings announces the release of its new AI Chat Agent platform – an intelligent, always-on assistant team built to help businesses save time, cut costs, and deliver top-tier customer service without hiring additional staff.

    Caro’s smart agents handle tasks that typically consume team resources, including:

    • Instant Support – answering FAQs like return policies or product details
    • Appointment Scheduling – enabling bookings through chat
    • Order Tracking – real-time delivery updates
    • Lead Qualification – asking smart questions to identify buyers
    • Feedback Collection – gathering reviews and insights

    Designed to improve conversion rates and streamline onboarding, the platform enhances customer care with intelligent automation.

    “In a world where speed and availability are everything, AI chatbots have become essential,” said Meriesha Rennalls, President of Caro Holdings. “We’ve designed a lineup of specialised AI agents that help businesses do more with less – while keeping their customers happy and engaged.”

    Caro’s offering is built on a strong foundation in enterprise-grade telephony and call centre expertise. Having delivered robust VoIP and virtual support solutions to UK businesses for years, Caro now introduces a new generation of AI agents – combining the depth of human call centre experience with conversational AI. With Meriesha Rennalls’ decades of leadership in telephony and customer engagement, Caro is positioned to transform how businesses connect, interact, and scale – blending human insight with smart automation.

    The launch supports Caro’s broader strategy to support efficient growth for small businesses and platform operators.

    Industry research shows that companies earning between $1–10 million annually can save an estimated $70,000 to $150,000 by using AI chat tools. Broader data supports this, with AI-powered agents reducing customer service costs by up to 30% across businesses of all sizes.

    Caro’s AI chatbots are transforming operations across:

    • Retail & E-commerce
    • Hospitality & Travel
    • Education & Member-Based Associations

    The tools are currently in use across select client projects, with ongoing feature development underway. Caro invites strategic partners and collaborators to co-create solutions that enhance engagement and operations – without adding headcount.

    About Caro Holdings Inc.
    Caro Holdings is dedicated to accelerating the growth of brands through digital innovation and AI-powered solutions. Its comprehensive suite of services includes e-commerce strategy, digital marketing, AI voice technology, and growth capital. Discover more at www.caroholdings.com.

    Caro Holdings Inc.
    +1 786-755-3210
    ir@caroholdings.com

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