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Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK and Türkiye agree big step towards multi-billion-pound export of Typhoon fighter jets

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    UK and Türkiye agree big step towards multi-billion-pound export of Typhoon fighter jets

    A multi-billion-pound export deal of Typhoon fighter jets to Türkiye – which could secure thousands of skilled UK jobs – is a significant step closer today, following the signing of an agreement that will also strengthen the UK-Türkiye partnership.

    • Defence Ministers of UK and Türkiye sign agreement in Istanbul, a major step towards the export of Typhoon fighter jets to Türkiye.

    • Agreement strengthens NATO’s collective deterrence and builds on years of defence cooperation and growing industrial ties between UK and Türkiye.

    • 20,000 UK jobs are supported by Typhoon programme, with exports set to secure thousands of UK production line jobs, delivering on the Government’s Plan for Change.  

    Defence Secretary John Healey and Defence Minister Yaşar Güler signed the Memorandum of Understanding at the International Defence Industry Fair in Istanbul. Building on years of defence cooperation, they agreed that a future Typhoon exports deal would strengthen Türkiye’s advanced combat capabilities and help sustain the 20,000 UK jobs involved in the Typhoon programme here at home.

    Negotiations on the potential deal with Türkiye will now continue over the coming weeks. It would be the first export order the UK has secured for Typhoon since 2017.

    By securing thousands of jobs on UK production lines, the Government will be delivering on our Plan for Change by driving defence as an engine for economic growth.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

    The UK’s production of Typhoon fighter jets is an engine for economic growth – supporting the lives and livelihoods of thousands of British people right across the UK. 

    Signing a multi-billion export deal with Türkiye will sustain and protect 20,000 UK jobs for future years to come – which is why my government is so dedicated to securing it. It will bolster our vital defence industry, deliver on our Plan for Change and keep us and our allies safer during these uncertain times.

    Defence Secretary John Healey MP said:

    Today’s agreement is a big step towards Türkiye buying UK Typhoon fighter jets. It shows this government’s determination to secure new defence deals, building on our relationships abroad to deliver for British working people.

    Equipping Türkiye with Typhoons would strengthen NATO’s collective defence, and boost both our countries’ industrial bases by securing thousands of skilled jobs across the UK for years to come.

    Last month’s Strategic Defence Review stressed the importance of exports, and now with our new defence exports office, we are developing defence’s role as an engine for economic growth as a foundation of the government’s Plan for Change.” 

    It comes as the Defence Secretary John Healey makes the drive for new defence export deals a high priority.

    The Ministry of Defence is preparing to take on responsibility for defence exports from 31st July, in a significant step of delivery for the Strategic Defence Review. The defence exports team will back British businesses on the global stage, drive potential exports and seek to enhance economic growth.

    The latest statistics show UK defence exports were valued at £14.5 billion in just a 12-month period. Following the SDR’s direction, it moves responsibility for defence exports from the Department for Business and Trade, making the MOD the lead for securing deals for military equipment with our allies.

    The Typhoon workshare agreement would see more than a third (37%) of each aircraft manufactured in the UK; the rest of each aircraft would be produced by the Eurofighter Partner Nations. Final production at BAE Systems’ Warton site would include radars from Edinburgh and engines from Bristol, helping secure thousands of UK jobs.

    Charles Woodburn, Chief Executive, BAE Systems said:

    This Memorandum of Understanding between the Governments of Türkiye and the UK underscores the importance of their long-standing defence co-operation through NATO and the critical role Typhoon plays in security and defence in Europe and the Middle East.

    The UK also continues to invest in its own world-class Typhoon fleet, which will remain the backbone of the UK’s air defence until at least the 2040s. The RAF’s existing Typhoons are being upgraded over the next 15 years, supporting skilled jobs across the UK.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Statement on the meeting of the Defence Ministers of the United Kingdom and the Republic of Türkiye

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Statement on the meeting of the Defence Ministers of the United Kingdom and the Republic of Türkiye

    The Defence Ministers of the United Kingdom and the Republic of Türkiye today reaffirmed the strength of the UK-Türkiye partnership.

    The Defence Ministers of the United Kingdom and the Republic of Türkiye welcomed the opportunity to meet at the 17th International Defence Industry Fair in Istanbul today and reaffirmed the strength of the UK-Türkiye partnership. They underscored the importance of the two countries’ longstanding defence cooperation, including collaboration through NATO and growing ties in defence industry and security. Both Ministers committed to deepening this strategic partnership in support of the Alliance’s collective deterrence.

    The two nations continue to make excellent progress on the export of Eurofighter Typhoon. Welcoming Türkiye as a Typhoon operator would build on the bonds of friendship developed over many decades between key NATO Allies and would be a significant step towards enhancing Türkiye’s advanced combat air capabilities. This will mark the start of a new chapter in the UK-Türkiye partnership, working together to strengthen capability collaboration and supporting both countries’ defence industries through the reciprocal purchase of word-leading equipment.

    The Defence Ministers have today jointly signed a Memorandum of Understanding. This document codifies the relationship between the countries, taking them one step closer to a full agreement on Typhoon. Both Ministers welcome signature as a positive step towards bringing Türkiye into the Typhoon club and share a mutual ambition to conclude the necessary arrangements as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: World sprint champion sentenced after using Covid loans to help buy £1.3 million home

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    World sprint champion sentenced after using Covid loans to help buy £1.3 million home

    Athlete sentenced for Bounce Back Loan fraud

    • British Masters athlete Rick Beardsell obtained two maximum-value Bounce Back Loans for his sportswear manufacturing business and used most of the funds to help buy a £1.3 million home in a Cheshire village
    • Money spent on purchasing the five-bedroom house should have been used to benefit his Sports Creative Limited business
    • Beardsell also broke the rules of the scheme by substantially inflating his company’s turnover and securing two loans when businesses should only have received one
    • The 46-year-old has now repaid the £100,000 he fraudulently applied for in full

    A world sprint champion has been sentenced after he spent Covid loan funds to help buy a £1.3 million house.

    Rick Beardsell secured two £50,000 Bounce Back Loans for his Sports Creative Limited company in 2020 and 2021 when businesses were only allowed a single loan.

    The 46-year-old then moved the Bounce Back Loan funds into his personal bank account, using part of the money to help buy a five-bedroom property on Macclesfield Road in Prestbury, while also transferring cash to family members and making mortgage payments.

    Beardsell, who has won multiple sprint titles and holds world records representing Great Britain as a masters athlete, was sentenced to 18 months in prison, suspended for two years, when he appeared at Chester Crown Court on Tuesday 22 July.

    He was also ordered to complete 250 hours of unpaid work and pay costs of £11,152.

    Beardsell repaid the £100,000 in full earlier this year after his guilty plea but before sentencing.

    David Snasdell, Chief Investigator at the Insolvency Service, said:

    Rick Beardsell exploited a Covid support scheme designed for struggling businesses, fraudulently obtaining loans he was not entitled to.

    While legitimate business owners fought to stay afloat during the pandemic, Beardsell bought a £1.3 million home with the help of money that should have been supporting his company through difficult times.

    This case sends a clear message that we will not tolerate those who viewed government support schemes as an opportunity for personal enrichment during a national emergency.

    Sports Creative Limited was set up in January 2009 with Beardsell as its sole director. The company described itself on social media as “a bespoke sportswear manufacturer”.

    Beardsell applied to the bank for his first £50,000 Bounce Back Loan just before Christmas 2020.

    In the application, he claimed that Sports Creative Limited had a turnover of £485,000.

    Just two weeks later, in early January 2021, Beardsell applied to a second bank for another £50,000 Bounce Back Loan, this time stating that his company had an estimated turnover of £320,000.

    Insolvency Service analysis of Sports Creative Limited’s bank account revealed that its turnover was just over £90,000, meaning he exaggerated his company’s revenue on both occasions.

    Beardsell claimed that he had received a purchase order of $600,000 (approximately £440,000) for personal protective equipment during the pandemic which ultimately failed to materialise.

    Even if this were the case, businesses were required to provide their turnover for 2019, prior to the start of Covid.

    Investigations also found Beardsell transferred £83,900 of the £100,000 loan money to his personal bank account in three separate transactions at the start of March 2021.

    A total of £431,160 from that account was paid to solicitors for the purchase of a house on Macclesfield Road in September 2021.

    Beardsell also made fraudulent transfers of £5,000 to his wife, £10,000 to another family member, and two mortgage payments for his previous house in Manchester which put the funds beyond the reach of creditors.

    In a prepared statement, Beardsell claimed that he had sought “professional advice” that Bounce Back Loan funds could be used for “any purpose” that resulted in a direct benefit to the company. He added that he was advised that this could include investments in company assets or property.

    Beardsell also said that HMRC told him that he was eligible to receive the funds from the second loan, advice which would not have been given had he been honest about his successful application for an earlier Bounce Back Loan.

    Sports Creative Limited entered liquidation in December 2021.

    Further information

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Ukraine Loses French Mirage 2000 Fighter Jet for the First Time

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    KYIV, July 23 (Xinhua) — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said in a video address on Wednesday that a Mirage 2000 fighter jet donated to the country by France had crashed, marking the first known loss of the type of aircraft by Ukraine.

    The Ukrainian Air Force, in turn, stated on Telegram that the plane crash occurred due to equipment failure on Tuesday evening while performing a flight mission.

    The pilot managed to eject and was found by a search and rescue team. His condition is assessed as stable. There are no casualties on the ground.

    A special commission has been created to determine the causes of the accident.

    The Mirage 2000 is a fourth-generation multirole fighter jet. It is capable of carrying long-range Storm Shadow/SCALP-EG cruise missiles. Ukraine received its first batch of Mirage 2000 aircraft in February this year. –0–

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Declaration of the EU Member States: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain on Raising Awareness of Persons with Disabilities.s (Warsaw, 30.06.25)

    Source: Republic of France in English
    The Republic of France has issued the following statement:

    Following the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), to which the European Union and all its Member States are party to and considering that the aforementioned Convention is an international human rights treaty that promotes and protect the rights of persons with disabilities with a view to ensure equality and inclusion of persons with disabilities;

    Noting that since the signatory countries of this Declaration are Member States of the European Union that have ratified the aforementioned Convention, we wish to contribute to its promotion by raising awareness about persons with disabilities in accordance with Article 8 of the CRPD, according to which States Parties undertake to take immediate, effective and appropriate measures to raise public awareness of issues affecting persons with disabilities, as well as measures to strengthen respect for the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities;

    Following the European Strategy for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities 2021-2030 as the main tool to implement the UNCRPD at European level. The Strategy sets the priorities and the framework for the joint work of the EU and the Member States to improve the lives of persons with disabilities in the EU and beyond in line with the Convention. The implementation of this Strategy will be achieved through a strong commitment by the Member States, by promoting policies and actions that will bring about accessible environments, inclusive education systems as well as health care systems of high quality and effective pathways to fair employment for persons with disabilities. In addition, the strategy indicates the commitment that the Commission will work with Member States to complement and support national campaigns, to strengthen awareness-raising and to combat stereotypes around disability;

    Referring to the European Parliament Resolution of 13 December 2022 towards equal rights for persons with disabilities , which stresses that the exercise of the right to work by persons with disabilities is closely linked to measures to combat direct and indirect discrimination, and therefore encourages the Commission and Member States to introduce effective and concrete measures to promote equality, diversity, including through awareness raising and a barrier-free environment;

    We, the Member States of the European Union, during the Polish Presidency of the Council of the European Union, hereby undertake:

    1. Strongly encourage all national mainstream media to portray persons with disabilities in a way that is consistent with the purpose of the UN CRPD and thus respects the human rights of persons with disabilities while respecting the effective editorial freedom and independence of media service providers in the exercise of their professional activities.

    Under the Strategy for the rights of persons with disabilities, the European Commission and Member States committed to work together to combat stereotyping and prejudice and raise awareness about persons with disabilities, in line with the Convention;

    2. Strive to ensure that disability in the mainstream media is portrayed as part of everyday life regarding persons with disabilities and to foster respect for the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities. Efforts should be made to ensure that persons with disabilities regularly appear on television, radio and social media as well as in the written press in everyday circumstances, not necessarily related to disability, on an equal basis with others in order to raise awareness among the society.

    It should be noted that stories presented in the media have a huge impact on public opinion, including those of persons with disabilities. There are still few persons with disabilities who regularly appear in the media, and when they do, they are often portrayed in inappropriate and stereotypical ways. Persons with disabilities are most often shown in the context of charity or medical treatment and are thus treated as people in need of help or support and not portrayed as integral participants of society. Television, written press, radio and social media are tools that can be crucial in raising awareness about persons with disabilities. The media can play a huge role in counteracting the stigmatization of persons with disabilities and are able to influence the change of societal misconceptions which will significantly contribute to the inclusion of persons with disabilities into society on an equal basis with others.

    3. Declare their intention to conduct regular public campaigns, in particular in the public press, radio and television as well as on social media in their Member States to raise awareness of the rights of persons with disabilities and their social and professional potential.

    In accordance with Article 8 of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and as underlined in Objective 9 “Awareness, governance and measuring progress” of the Strategy for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities 2021-2030, Parties undertake to adopt immediate, effective and appropriate measures to raise awareness, combat stereotypes, prejudices and harmful practices and promote awareness of the capabilities and contributions of persons with disabilities. The measures to this end include, inter alia, initiating and maintaining effective public awareness campaigns designed to:

    • nurture receptiveness to the rights of persons with disabilities.
    • promote positive perceptions and greater social awareness towards persons with disabilities.
    • promote recognition of the skills, merits and abilities of persons with disabilities, and of their contributions to the workplace and labour market.

    4. Promote the Disability Employment Package, which is a set of guidelines and good practices, covering all stages of employment, from recruitment to retention, and targeting both policymakers and practitioners such as public employment services, employers and trade unions.

    All the Disability Employment Package deliverables have now been published by the Commission . The package aims to support Member States in improving the overall employment conditions for persons with disabilities in the EU. Increasing opportunities for persons with disabilities in the open labour market can be achieved by building awareness among employers of the career potential of persons with disabilities and among public employment services.

    It is important to raise awareness of the potential of persons with disabilities and highlight their contributions in the workplace and labour market.

    5. Promote the “Guidance on independent living and inclusion in the community of persons with disabilities in the context of EU funding” , which provide a set of guidelines on how to promote the right of persons with disabilities to live independently and be included in the community.

    The Commission adopted a notice “Guidance on independent living and inclusion in the community of persons with disabilities in the context of EU funding”, which recommends measures to promote independent living by improving and promoting support services for independent living. The guidance provides practical recommendations to Member States and stakeholders to accelerate the transition from institutional care to community-based services and independent living for persons with disabilities.

    6. Support the implementation of the European Accessibility Act , in particular, enforcing media providers must ensure that the services used to deliver the content, and their functions provide equal access for persons with disabilities.

    The European Accessibility Act (EAA) is a Directive that aims to improve the functioning of the internal market for accessible products and services, by removing barriers created by divergent rules in Member States. The EAA covers the provision of access to audiovisual media services, which may include websites, web-based applications, set-top box-based applications, downloadable applications, mobile device-based services, including mobile applications and related media players, and connected television.

    In our leadership capacity, we pledge a strong involvement in promoting national policies that are consistent with the EU Strategy on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, in line with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

    1) https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/FR/TXT/?uri=COM%3A2021%3A101%3AFIN#PP4Contents

    2) https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/TA-9-2022-0435_FR.pdf

    3) https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/policies/justice-and-fundamental-rights/disability/union-equality-strategy-rights-persons-disabilities-2021-2030/disability-employment-package-improve-labour-market-outcomes-persons-disabilities_en

    4) https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32019L0882

    5) https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/FR/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32019L0882

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • PM Modi embarks on two-nation visit to UK and Maldives

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday embarked on a two-nation visit to the United Kingdom and the Maldives, with a focus on deepening strategic partnerships and regional cooperation.

    In his departure statement, the Prime Minister said: “India and the UK share a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership that has witnessed significant progress in recent years. Our collaboration spans a wide range of sectors, including trade, investment, technology, innovation, defence, education, research, sustainability, health, and people-to-people ties.”

    The PM added that he will hold bilateral meetings with PM Keir Starmer to discuss further enhancement of the economic partnership, with the aim of fostering prosperity, growth, and job creation in both countries.

    “I also look forward to calling on His Majesty King Charles III during the visit,” PM Modi said.

    The Prime Minister’s visit to the UK from July 23–24 comes at the invitation of Starmer, marking his fourth trip to the country.

    In the second leg of his tour, PM Modi will undertake a state visit to the Maldives from July 25–26 at the invitation of Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu. This will be his third visit to the island nation and the first by any head of state or government during President Muizzu’s tenure.

    Notably, PM Modi will be the Guest of Honour at the Maldives’ 60th Independence Day celebrations on July 26. This year also marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

    The Prime Minister said he looked forward to meeting President Muizzu and other political leaders of the Indian Ocean archipelago to advance the joint vision of a Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership and to deepen cooperation for peace, prosperity, and stability in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

    “I am confident that the visit will yield tangible outcomes, benefiting our people and advancing our Neighbourhood First Policy,” the PM said.

    IANS

  • Microsoft knew of SharePoint security flaw but failed to effectively patch it, timeline shows

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A security patch Microsoft released this month failed to fully fix a critical flaw in the U.S. tech giant’s SharePoint server software, opening the door to a sweeping global cyber espionage effort, a timeline reviewed by Reuters shows.

    On Tuesday, a Microsoft spokesperson confirmed that its initial solution to the flaw, identified at a hacker competition in May, did not work, but added that it released further patches that resolved the issue.

    It remains unclear who is behind the spy effort, which targeted about 100 organisations over the weekend, and is expected to spread as other hackers join the fray.

    In a blog post Microsoft said two allegedly Chinese hacking groups, dubbed “Linen Typhoon” and “Violet Typhoon,” were exploiting the weaknesses, along with a third, also based in China.

    Microsoft and Alphabet’s Google have said China-linked hackers were probably behind the first wave of hacks.

    Chinese government-linked operatives are regularly implicated in cyberattacks, but Beijing routinely denies such hacking operations.

    In an emailed statement, its embassy in Washington said China opposed all forms of cyberattacks, and “smearing others without solid evidence.”

    The vulnerability opening the way for the attack was first identified in May at a Berlin hacking competition organised by cybersecurity firm Trend Micro that offered cash bounties for finding computer bugs in popular software.

    It offered a $100,000 prize for so-called “zero-day” exploits that leverage previously undisclosed digital weaknesses that could be used against SharePoint, Microsoft’s flagship document management and collaboration platform.

    The U.S. National Nuclear Security Administration, charged with maintaining and designing the nation’s cache of nuclear weapons, was among the agencies breached, Bloomberg News said on Tuesday, citing a person with knowledge of the matter.

    No sensitive or classified information is known to have been compromised, it added.

    The U.S. Energy Department, the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, and Microsoft did not immediately respond to Reuters’ requests for comment on the report.

    A researcher for the cybersecurity arm of Viettel, a telecoms firm run by Vietnam’s military, identified a SharePoint bug at the May event, dubbed it “ToolShell” and demonstrated a way to exploit it.

    The discovery won the researcher an award of $100,000, an X posting by Trend Micro’s “Zero Day Initiative” showed.

    Participating vendors were responsible for patching and disclosing security flaws in “an effective and timely manner,” Trend Micro said in a statement.

    “Patches will occasionally fail,” it added. “This has happened with SharePoint in the past.”

    In a July 8 security update Microsoft said it had identified the bug, listed it as a critical vulnerability, and released patches to fix it.

    About 10 days later, however, cybersecurity firms started to notice an influx of malicious online activity targeting the same software the bug sought to exploit: SharePoint servers.

    “Threat actors subsequently developed exploits that appear to bypass these patches,” British cybersecurity firm Sophos said in a blog post on Monday.

    The pool of potential ToolShell targets remains vast.

    Hackers could theoretically have already compromised more than 8,000 servers online, data from search engine Shodan, which helps identify internet-linked equipment, shows.

    Such servers were in networks ranging from auditors, banks, healthcare companies and major industrial firms to U.S. state-level and international government bodies.

    The Shadowserver Foundation, which scans the internet for potential digital vulnerabilities, put the number at a little more than 9,000, cautioning that the figure is a minimum.

    It said most of those affected were in the United States and Germany.

    Germany’s federal office for information security, BSI, said on Tuesday it had found no compromised SharePoint servers in government networks, despite some being vulnerable to the ToolShell attack.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: World sprint champion sentenced after using £100,000 Covid loan to help buy £1.3 million home

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    World sprint champion sentenced after using £100,000 Covid loan to help buy £1.3 million home

    Athlete sentenced for Bounce Back Loan fraud

    • British Masters athlete Rick Beardsell obtained two maximum-value Bounce Back Loans for his sportswear manufacturing business and used most of the funds to help buy a £1.3 million home in a Cheshire village
    • Money spent on purchasing the five-bedroom house should have been used to benefit his Sports Creative Limited business
    • Beardsell also broke the rules of the scheme by substantially inflating his company’s turnover and securing two loans when businesses should only have received one
    • The 46-year-old has now repaid the £100,000 he fraudulently applied for in full

    A world sprint champion has been sentenced after he spent Covid loan funds to help buy a £1.3 million house.

    Rick Beardsell secured two £50,000 Bounce Back Loans for his Sports Creative Limited company in 2020 and 2021 when businesses were only allowed a single loan.

    The 46-year-old then moved the Bounce Back Loan funds into his personal bank account, using part of the money to help buy a five-bedroom property on Macclesfield Road in Prestbury, while also transferring cash to family members and making mortgage payments.

    Beardsell, who has won multiple sprint titles and holds world records representing Great Britain as a masters athlete, was sentenced to 18 months in prison, suspended for two years, when he appeared at Chester Crown Court on Tuesday 22 July.

    He was also ordered to complete 250 hours of unpaid work and pay costs of £11,152.

    Beardsell repaid the £100,000 in full earlier this year after his guilty plea but before sentencing.

    David Snasdell, Chief Investigator at the Insolvency Service, said:

    Rick Beardsell exploited a Covid support scheme designed for struggling businesses, fraudulently obtaining loans he was not entitled to.

    While legitimate business owners fought to stay afloat during the pandemic, Beardsell bought a £1.3 million home with the help of money that should have been supporting his company through difficult times.

    This case sends a clear message that we will not tolerate those who viewed government support schemes as an opportunity for personal enrichment during a national emergency.

    Sports Creative Limited was set up in January 2009 with Beardsell as its sole director. The company described itself on social media as “a bespoke sportswear manufacturer”.

    Beardsell applied to the bank for his first £50,000 Bounce Back Loan just before Christmas 2020.

    In the application, he claimed that Sports Creative Limited had a turnover of £485,000.

    Just two weeks later, in early January 2021, Beardsell applied to a second bank for another £50,000 Bounce Back Loan, this time stating that his company had an estimated turnover of £320,000.

    Insolvency Service analysis of Sports Creative Limited’s bank account revealed that its turnover was just over £90,000, meaning he exaggerated his company’s revenue on both occasions.

    Beardsell claimed that he had received a purchase order of $600,000 (approximately £440,000) for personal protective equipment during the pandemic which ultimately failed to materialise.

    Even if this were the case, businesses were required to provide their turnover for 2019, prior to the start of Covid.

    Investigations also found Beardsell transferred £83,900 of the £100,000 loan money to his personal bank account in three separate transactions at the start of March 2021.

    A total of £431,160 from that account was paid to solicitors for the purchase of a house on Macclesfield Road in September 2021.

    Beardsell also made fraudulent transfers of £5,000 to his wife, £10,000 to another family member, and two mortgage payments for his previous house in Manchester which put the funds beyond the reach of creditors.

    In a prepared statement, Beardsell claimed that he had sought “professional advice” that Bounce Back Loan funds could be used for “any purpose” that resulted in a direct benefit to the company. He added that he was advised that this could include investments in company assets or property.

    Beardsell also said that HMRC told him that he was eligible to receive the funds from the second loan, advice which would not have been given had he been honest about his successful application for an earlier Bounce Back Loan.

    Sports Creative Limited entered liquidation in December 2021.

    Further information

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New survey shows just 27% of all waste crime incidents reported

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    New survey shows just 27% of all waste crime incidents reported

    Environment Agency publishes results of National Waste Crime Survey 2025, showing almost three quarters of all waste crimes go unreported

    Landowners and farmers are being urged to help the Environment Agency stop waste crime as new research shows only 12% reported the most recent incidents which affected them. 

    The findings were revealed today (Wednesday 23 July) in the results of the Environment Agency’s National Waste Crime Survey 2025, which also show more than half (57%) of landowners and farmers are estimated to have been affected by waste crime.  

    Networks of organised criminal groups operating across the country are targeting privately owned property and land, particularly in rural locations, to dump rubbish collected through illegal means. The waste industry, landowners and farmers who took part in the survey estimate 35% of waste crime is committed by organised crime groups, attracted by financial gains.  

    Last year, three men were convicted following a major investigation led by the Environment Agency into large-scale illegal deposits of more than 26,000 tonnes of waste – the equivalent weight of around 2,170 double-decker buses – at 17 sites across the country. Organised criminal gang members approached waste facilities and offered to dispose of baled waste at reduced costs, which they later abandoned. 

    The Environment Agency is determined to stop waste crime, protect the environment, and pursue criminals. It’s essential to know when and where these offences are happening – and the survey shows only just more than a quarter (27%) of all waste crimes are reported. 

    To ensure it has the best possible information to identify and stop the culprits, the Environment Agency is appealing to landowners and farmers to report every incident to its 24-hour incident hotline on 0800 80 70 60. Reports of any known or suspected illegal waste activity can also be made anonymously to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111. 

    Steve Molyneux, Environment Agency Deputy Director for Waste & Resources Regulation, said:

    Waste criminals’ toxic crimes cause widespread and significant harm to people, places and the economy. The Environment Agency is determined to use all our powers and resources to stop waste criminals, but we cannot achieve this alone.  

    Our survey shows almost three quarters of waste offences go unreported, so we urge industry and the public to help us stop waste criminals faster by sharing what they know about the people carrying out these heinous crimes.

    Circular Economy Minister Mary Creagh said:  

    Through our Plan for Change, this government will crack down on the waste cowboys, seize and crush fly-tippers’ vans, and clean up Britain. 

    With the shocking scale of this challenge revealed today, we are tightening the net on the organised crime groups who exploit our broken waste system.  

    We will not stand and watch while our countryside is polluted by criminals who undercut decent businesses.

    Sam Corp, Head of Regulation at the Environmental Services Association, said:

    With more than half of British landowners now reporting that they have fallen victim to the illegal dumping of waste, the survey findings are further evidence of the waste crime epidemic facing the UK, much of which is perpetrated by organised crime groups.    

    It is essential that we all exercise our duty of care to ensure waste does not fall into criminal hands and that, across society, we report all waste crime when we see it to help the authorities identify and stop the culprits.

    Dan Cooke, Director of Policy, Communications & External Affairs at CIWM, said:

    Waste crime causes misery and anxiety to communities wherever it occurs. It also damages local economies and undermines the professional recycling, resources and waste sector.   

    These latest National Waste Crime Survey figures show the extent of the challenge we face and the need for renewed focus and action. We can all do something to tackle waste crime and to bring those responsible to account. 

    CIWM encourages everyone to report suspicious activity or any incidents involving the illegal tipping of waste materials – wherever and whenever you see it. By reporting it to your local authorities or to the Environment Agency, you’re increasing the chance of prosecution and of swift action to maintain the quality of local environments on which our economy depends. 

    Conducted in February, the survey is used to help better understand the nature and scale of waste crime, as perceived by those experiencing it, including landowners, farmers and the waste industry.  

    The survey’s results show waste criminals are active across the country, with respondents estimating 20% of all waste produced may be illegally managed at some point in the supply chain – enough to fill Wembley Stadium 35 times. 

    Waste industry respondents who had suffered waste crime reported incurring significant costs, with 52% experiencing losses exceeding £50,000 due to illegal waste sites, 44% from illegal waste exports, and 32% from large-scale fly-tipping. 

    Under their Plan for Change, the government has confirmed rogue operators caught transporting and dealing with waste illegally will face up to five years in prison under new legislation. This will act as a strong deterrent and ensure the full force of the law comes down hard on those trashing the nation’s communities.   

    The Environment Agency fully supports legitimate operators and is working hard in collaboration with other partners to stop illegal waste management. In one recent successful prosecution, a former teacher who filled two quarries in Hertfordshire with enough illegal waste to fill the Royal Albert Hall nearly three times over was ordered to pay almost £79,000 following an Environment Agency investigation.  

    And, in another prosecution brought by the Environment Agency, a County Durham man was jailed for 44 weeks in February for operating an illegal waste site without an environmental permit.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI China: ‘Boundless’ German art exhibition ends Thursday in Beijing

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

    Editor’s Note: A group exhibition featuring five German contemporary artists closes this week at Beijing’s Whitebox Art Center.

    “Boundless: Contemporary Art from Germany” runs through July 24, showcasing abstract paintings and sculptures that blend Western and Eastern artistic approaches.

    The exhibition, curated by Ren Rong, features works by Franz Türtscher, Herbert Mehler, Nikola Dimitrov, Otto Reitsperger, and Reinhard Roy. The artists draw from German abstract traditions while incorporating Eastern artistic philosophy.

    The show highlights the enduring influence of Bauhaus design principles, particularly ideas of structure and rhythm. The artists push painting and sculpture beyond representation, experimenting with visual logic and optical illusion.

    Each work shows a different approach to abstract art. Dimitrov’s work reflects his background as a classical pianist, while Türtscher’s uses color and grids. Reitsperger creates visual illusions through geometry, and Mehler transforms steel into curved sculptures. 

    “Boundless” invites viewers to inhabit a space where vision, thought and form dissolve their boundaries.

    This photo shows the entrance to “Boundless: Contemporary Art from Germany” at Whitebox Art Center in Beijing, July 17, 2025. The stark architectural framing prepares viewers for a journey through abstraction and cross-cultural exchange. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Cultural beats greet Milan Ballet at Xinjiang airport

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

    Italy’s Milan Ballet arrived in Urumqi, Xinjiang, on July 21, to participate in the 7th China Xinjiang International Dance Festival. At the airport, they were welcomed by Xinjiang Urumqi Art Theatre with a traditional ethnic-style dance.

    Members of the Urumqi Art Theatre performed a variety of ethnic dances, while the Milan Ballet dancers joyfully echoed their movements. Transcending language barriers through body language, they created an atmosphere of “shared harmony through dance” and mutual appreciation.

    The 7th China Xinjiang International Dance Festival opened in Urumqi on July 20 and will run until Aug. 5. The event brings together Chinese and foreign groups, including eight international teams and 16 domestic troupes. A total of 52 performances, covering various forms such as dance dramas, operas, ballets and modern dances, will be staged at the main venue in Urumqi and six sub-venues in cities including Yili and Hotan.

    An Italian dancer from the Milan Ballet and a dancer from Xinjiang Urumqi Art Theatre dance together at Urumqi Tianshan International Airport, Xinjiang, July 21, 2025. [Photo by Yang Chuanli/China.org.cn]

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Walaza crowned in 100m, USA claim 4 more swimming golds at Universiade

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

    Bayanda Walaza sprinted to the men’s 100m title to give South Africa its third gold medal at the Rhine-Ruhr World University Games, while Team USA continued to dominate the swimming pool with four more golds on Tuesday night.

    The Paris 2024 Olympian and world junior champion crossed the line in 10.16 seconds, edging Thailand’s Puripol Boonson (10.22), the same rival he beat at last year’s under-20 global competition in Peru. Asian champion Hiroki Yanagita finished third, just 0.01 seconds behind Boonson.

    “I feel glorified. I believe in winning. As soon as I was on that [start] line, I was looking at that finish line. My mind was there. I need to cross it before everyone,” said Walaza, who, at just 18, ran the leadoff leg in the men’s 4x100m relay final to help South Africa claim silver at Paris 2024.

    Ai Yanhan (3rd L) of China competes during the women’s 200m freestyle final of swimming at the Rhine-Ruhr 2025 FISU World University Games in Berlin, Germany, July 22, 2025. (Xinhua/Du Zheyu)

    Walaza became just the ninth South African to break the 10-second barrier in the 100m when he clocked 9.94 in Zagreb in May. Weeks earlier, he set a national junior record of 20.08 in the 200m.

    Australia’s Georgia Harris won the women’s 100m in 11.44, ahead of Poland’s Magdalena Stefanowicz (11.49) and South Africa’s Gabriella Marais (11.51).

    Germany claimed a one-two finish in the men’s discus, with Mika Sosna winning gold with a throw of 64.26 meters and Steven Richter taking silver at 61.77. Ukraine’s Mykhailo Brudin posted a season-best 60.71 to earn bronze.

    The women’s long jump podium was separated by just three centimeters. Portugal’s Agate Sousa leaped 6.60 meters, two centimeters ahead of China’s Asian Games champion Xiong Shiqi, who finished one centimeter ahead of Spain’s Natalia Gonzalez.

    “It’s a pity to miss the top place by just two centimeters,” said Xiong, who earned China’s first athletics medal at the Games. “But the result is compatible with my capability and my expectation. I want to inspire my teammates in the upcoming track and field competitions with this very first medal in the stadium for China.”

    Swedish Olympian Axelina Johansson won the women’s shot put with a throw of 18.45 meters. American top qualifier Abria Smith followed with 17.38, while South Africa’s Colette Uys claimed bronze at 17.34, narrowly ahead of compatriot Mine de Klerk by one centimeter.

    Seven finals were contested in the pool, with Team USA winning four. The American men continued their relay dominance with a record-breaking win in the 4x200m freestyle, finishing in 7:04.51 to break the previous Games mark of 7:05.49 set by Russia in 2013.

    Cavan Gormsen surged from eighth to first on the back half of the women’s 200m freestyle, winning gold for the U.S. in 1:57.21. She closed the final 50 meters in 29.13 to pass three swimmers and edge China’s Ai Yanhan by 0.3 seconds.

    Leah Shackley broke her own day-old meet record to win the women’s 50m backstroke in 27.31 seconds, trimming 0.3 off her semifinal time of 27.66.

    In the women’s 200m individual medley, another American, Leah Hayes, won gold in 2:09.48, improving on her Games record from the semifinal.

    Competing as a neutral athlete, Aleksandr Stepanov won his second freestyle distance title of the meet with victory in the men’s 800m in 7:46.51, finishing nearly four seconds ahead of Italy’s Tommaso Griffante.

    Italy’s Gianmarco Sansone claimed gold in the men’s 100m butterfly with a personal-best 51.40. Germany’s Bjorn Kammann finished second in 51.70, followed by Uzbekistan’s Eldorbek Usmonov (51.84).

    Federico Rizzardi earned Italy’s second gold of the session, winning the men’s 50m breaststroke in 27.14, nearly 0.2 seconds ahead of the field.

    In diving, China’s Zhang Wenao won gold in the men’s 1m springboard with 425.85 points, followed by teammate Hu Yukang (368.75). Germany’s Tim Axur took bronze with 354.80.

    South Korea claimed its fifth fencing gold by edging France 45-43 in the women’s sabre team event. Italy secured its third fencing title with a commanding 45-20 win over Poland in the men’s foil team final.

    The top three on the medal table remained unchanged after the sixth day of competition. The U.S. leads with 21 golds (20 in swimming), 12 silvers and 20 bronzes, followed by China (12-17-4) and South Korea (11-5-13). Host Germany sits fourth with seven golds, six silvers and eight bronzes. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Payments statistics: second half of 2024

    Source: European Central Bank

    23 July 2025

    The European Central Bank (ECB) today published statistics on non-cash payments for the second half of 2024.[2]The statistics comprise indicators on access to and use of payment services, payment cards and payment terminals by the public, as well as volumes and values of transactions processed through retail and large-value payment systems. This press release focuses on developments in the euro area as a whole, while statistics are also published at country level for all euro area and most non-euro area EU member states. EU and euro area aggregates are also published.[3]

    Payment services[4]

    In the second half of 2024, the total number of non-cash payment transactions[5] in the euro area increased by 8.6% to 77.6 billion compared with the second half of 2023, with the corresponding total value rising by 3.8% to €116.9 trillion. Card payments accounted for 57% of the total number of transactions, while credit transfers accounted for 21%, direct debits for 15% and e-money payments for 6%. The remaining 1% comprised cheques, money remittances and other payment services (see annex, Table 1).

    Chart 1

    Use of the main payment services in the euro area

    (number of transactions in billions, graph on the right-hand-side refers to half-yearly data)

    Source: ECB.
    Note: Data have been partially estimated for periods prior to 2010, as methodological changes were implemented in those years and some data are not directly available. The historical estimations done by the ECB ensure comparability of figures over the entire period. Statistics were also collected for cheques, money remittances and other payment services which together accounted for 1% of the total number of non-cash euro area payment transactions in the second half of 2024.

    Data on payment services

    Card payments

    In the second half of 2024 the number of card payments within the euro area increased by 11.3% to 44.3 billion compared with the second half of 2023. The corresponding total value of card payments rose by 9.4% to €1.7 trillion, reflecting an average value of around €39 per transaction. The split between remote and non-remote[6] transactions in the total number of card payments was 18% to 82%, while the split in terms of value was 28% to 72%. The number of contactless card payments initiated at a physical electronic funds transfer point of sale terminal increased by 15.5% to 29.5 billion compared with the second half of 2023, with the corresponding total value rising by 15.1% to €0.8 trillion. As a result, their share in the total number of non-remote card payments accounted for 81%, while the corresponding share in terms of value was 65%. At the national level, Lithuania continued to have the largest share of card payments as a percentage of the total number of non-cash payments in the second half of 2024, at around 79% (see annex, Table 2).

    Credit transfers[7]

    In the second half of 2024 the number of credit transfers within the euro area increased by 7.3% to 16.2 billion compared with the second half of 2023, and the corresponding total value rose by 3.6% to €108.3 trillion. As higher-value payments are usually made by credit transfer[8], they accounted for 93% of the total value of non-cash payments. The ratio of transactions initiated electronically to those initiated using paper forms was around 16 to 1, while in terms of value the ratio was around 12 to 1. At the national level, Latvia continued to have the largest share of credit transfers as a percentage of the total number of non-cash payments in the second half of 2024, at around 36% (see annex, Table 2).

    Direct debits

    In the second half of 2024 the number of direct debits within the euro area increased by 3.9% to 11.4 billion compared with the second half of 2023, and the corresponding total value rose by 8.2% to €5.4 trillion. Of the total number of direct debits, those with an electronic mandate accounted for 12% whereas those with consent given in other forms accounted for 88%, while in terms of value the split was 14% to 86%. At the national level, Germany continued to have the largest share of direct debits as a percentage of the total number of non-cash payments in the second half of 2024, at around 32% (see annex, Table 2).

    E-money payments

    In the second half of 2024 the number of e-money payment transactions within the euro area increased by 2.6% to 4.6 billion compared with the second half of 2023, and the corresponding value rose by 15.8% to €0.3 trillion. Of the total number of e-money payment transactions, those made with e-money accounts accounted for 95% whereas those made with cards on which e-money can be stored accounted for 5%, while in terms of value the split was 93% to 7%.

    Cards and accepting devices

    At the end of the second half of 2024 the number of cards with a payment function[9] had increased by 8.2% to 750.0 million compared with the number at the end of the second half of 2023. With a total euro area population of around 353 million, this implies an average of 2.1 payment cards per euro area inhabitant.

    At the end of the second half of 2024 the total number of automated teller machines (ATMs) in the euro area had decreased by 3.1% to around 253.7 thousand compared with the number at the end of the second half of 2023. Of these, 33% accepted contactless transactions.

    At the end of the second half of 2024 the total number of point of sale (POS) terminals had increased by 7.9% to around 20.7 million[10] compared with the corresponding number at the end of the second half of 2023. Of these terminals, 92% accepted contactless transactions.

    Payment systems[11]

    Retail payment systems

    Retail payment systems located in the euro area handle mainly payments that are made by individuals and businesses, with a relatively low value and high volume overall.

    In the second half of 2024, 34 retail payment systems within the euro area processed around 56.1 billion transactions with a combined value of €26.4 trillion. Instant credit transfers accounted for 16% of the total number and for 4% of the total value of credit transfer transactions processed by euro area retail payment systems.

    Retail payment systems located in the euro area differ significantly in terms of type, size and geographical scope of transactions they process. The three largest systems (MCMS[12], STEP2-T[13] and CORE (France)) processed 65% of the volume and 62% of the value of all transactions processed by the retail payment systems located in the euro area in the second half of 2024.

    Chart 2

    Main retail payment systems located in the euro area, values and numbers of transactions processed in the second half of 2024

    (value of transactions in EUR trillions and number of transactions in billions)

    Source: ECB.

    Data on retail payment systems

    Large-value payment systems

    Large-value payment systems form the backbone of the euro area financial market infrastructure and are designed primarily to process large-value and/or high-priority payments made between system participants for their own account or on behalf of their customers. 

    In the second half of 2024, large-value payment systems located in the euro area settled 74.7 million payments with a total value of €223.7 trillion in euro payments, with T2 and EURO1/STEP1 being the two main systems.[14]

    Chart 3

    Main large-value payment systems located in the euro area, values and numbers of transactions processed in the second half of 2024

    (value of transactions in EUR trillions and number of transactions in millions)

    Source: ECB.

    Data on large-value payment systems

    Notes:

    • The full set of payment statistics can be downloaded from the ECB Data Portal (EDP). The EDP also includes interactive dashboards and interactive reports supporting data visualization. Detailed methodological information, including a list of all data definitions, is available under “Payment services and large-value and retail payment systems” in the “Statistics” section of the ECB’s website.
    • As of 2025, the dissemination scope of payments statistics in the EDP has been extended in two-waves. Since March 2025, the quarterly publication of payments statistics has been significantly widened, offering more detailed geographical breakdowns as well as additional details on card payments per type of merchant category codes (MCC). As of July 2025, the semi-annual publication includes details on the payment schemes for credit transfers and direct debits as well as more granular geographical breakdowns, among others. In addition, some indicators related to fraudulent payment transactions are now publicly available in the EDP. For the latter, please also refer to the relevant disclaimer available towards the bottom of the EDP page.
    • Taking effect on 1 January 2022, the methodological and reporting framework for payments statistics was enhanced to take progressive developments in the payments market and related changes in the legal framework in Europe into account. The enhanced reporting requirements are set out in Regulation ECB/2020/59 amending Regulation ECB/2013/43 on payments statistics and in Guideline ECB/2021/13 on reporting requirements on payments statistics. In addition, the Manual on payments statistics reporting is available on the ECB’s website.
    • Hyperlinks in the main body of the press release and in annex tables lead to data that may change with subsequent releases as a result of revisions. Figures shown in annex tables are a snapshot of the data at the time of the current release. Unless otherwise indicated, statistics referring to the euro area cover the EU Member States that had adopted the euro at the time to which the data relate.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: Atos Renewed as a Google Cloud Partner Managed Service Provider, Supporting Continued Cloud Transformation and Innovation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    News

    Atos Renewed as a Google Cloud Partner Managed Service Provider, Supporting Continued Cloud Transformation and Innovation

    Paris, France – July 23, 2025 – Atos, a global leader in digital transformation and managed services, today announced the renewal of its status as a Google Cloud Managed Service Provider (MSP), reinforcing the strategic partnership between the two organizations. This renewal reaffirms Atos’ continued excellence in delivering cloud-native services, scalable infrastructure solutions, and end-to-end digital modernization to enterprises worldwide.

    As a Premier Google Cloud Partner and a certified Google Cloud MSP, Atos will continue to provide advanced support, optimization, and AI-driven management of Google Cloud environments for customers across industries, accelerating their digital journeys to AI solutions and maximizing the value of their cloud investments. The renewed recognition highlights Atos’ proven expertise in cloud migration, data analytics, AI, security, and application modernization. 

    “We are proud to be renewed as a Google Cloud Managed Service Provider, a testament to our ongoing commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and delivering measurable outcomes for our clients,” said Alexa Vandenbempt, Head of Group Partnerships, Atos. “This renewal strengthens our long-standing strategic partnership and enables us to further support organizations in achieving agility, scalability and sustainable growth. This continues our momentum following our recent Google Cloud Partner of the Year Award for Crisis Response & Resilience.” 

    Google Cloud’s MSP initiative recognizes partners that meet rigorous standards for technical proficiency, customer success, and service delivery. Atos’ renewal follows a comprehensive audit of its capabilities, customer impact, and ongoing investment in Google Cloud technologies and talent development. 

    This milestone builds on a decade-long collaboration between Atos and Google Cloud, which includes joint go-to-market initiatives including co-innovation labs, Bare Metal Solution, Google Cloud VMware Engine and Database Modernization for AI.  

    For more information, please visit: Atos and Google Cloud – Atos

    ***

    About Atos Group

    Atos Group is a global leader in digital transformation with c. 72,000 employees and annual revenue of c. € 10 billion, operating in 68 countries under two brands — Atos for services and Eviden for products. European number one in cybersecurity, cloud and high-performance computing, Atos Group is committed to a secure and decarbonized future and provides tailored AI-powered, end-to-end solutions for all industries. Atos is a SE (Societas Europaea) and listed on Euronext Paris.

    The purpose of Atos is to help design the future of the information space. Its expertise and services support the development of knowledge, education and research in a multicultural approach and contribute to the development of scientific and technological excellence. Across the world, the Group enables its customers and employees, and members of societies at large to live, work and develop sustainably, in a safe and secure information space.

    Press contact

    Isabelle Grangé | isabelle.grange@atos.net | +33 (0) 6 64 56 74 88

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Panasonic TOUGHBOOK Research Highlights Urgency of Windows 11 Migration

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Critical infrastructure organisations face increased security, compatibility, performance, cost, and compliance risks if they delay upgrading to Windows 11.

    Bracknell, UK. 23rd July 2025 – Panasonic TOUGHBOOK has released research revealing the challenges and concerns for organisations navigating Windows 10 end-of-life and migrating to the Windows 11 operating system*. With support for Windows 10 ceasing on 14th October 2025, Panasonic’s research shows organisations that have not yet completed their migration are concerned about security risks, costs, and software compatibility issues arising from out-of-support software.

    Panasonic’s whitepaper, ‘Navigating the Shift: The Business Case for Upgrading to Windows 11’ also explores the extent of hardware refreshes needed to support Windows 11, and reveals concerns about the impact of device downtime during upgrade cycles.

    Standing still presents significant security risks and cost implications
    One of the biggest challenges surveyed organisations face is the security risk of inaction or delaying their Windows 11 migration. Ninety-eight percent of organisations surveyed say they are ‘likely’ to invest in Microsoft’s Extended Security Update (ESU) if they have not completed migration to Windows 11 by October.

    More than half (58%) are not confident that they will be able to manage device security without either completing the migration or investing in ESU. They are concerned that if they don’t migrate or purchase ESU, they will be exposed to higher ransomware and malware risk (94%), data breaches (93%), a lack of patches for new security threats (91%), compliance risks (89%) and the impact on business reputation (88%).

    Cost is another concerning factor for organisations delaying their Windows 11 migration beyond October 2025. Two-thirds predict that they’ll face higher costs overall, with 55% expecting these will come in the form of higher cybersecurity expenses. With Microsoft advising that an enterprise with 1,000 devices will face an ESU bill for approximately £320,000 over the three years that ESU is available, the cost of delay is tangible and immediate

    In addition, 48% predict increased support costs and 46% believe business continuity risks will have cost implications. Increased maintenance costs (40%) and hardware costs (38%) are also factors.

    Software upgrade means hardware replacement and reduced productivity
    Surveyed organisations operate an average of 4,000 devices and estimate that 62% either have been, or will still need to be replaced or upgraded, to ensure compatibility with Windows 11. This rises to 76% of devices in organisations with more than 5,000 employees.

    Almost half (45%) of respondents see challenges around the loss of productivity due to downtime when devices are being upgraded. Consequently 75% are adopting a phased approach. One-quarter (25%) are delaying software upgrades to coincide with device replacement. Application and business software compatibility issues are another migration challenge, cited by 47%.

    Upgrades will be managed through a combination of remote upgrades (46%) and in-person upgrades (54%), with 64% expecting to draw heavily on device manufacturer support during the process.

    Benefits of migration outweigh risks of delay
    Respondents currently migrating to Windows 11 expect to unlock important benefits around security and protection (44%), performance and processing power (36%) and having a future-proofed device ecosystem (36%). They also seek to leverage AI features such as Microsoft Copilot or Bing AI (34%) as well as deploying Edge AI capabilities in the field (29%).

    Chris Turner, Head of Go-to-Market, Panasonic TOUGHBOOK Europe, comments: “The window is closing for organisations to make a well-planned, measured and cost-effective transition to Windows 11 and start unlocking its benefits. The cost, security, and performance risks of delay are steadily increasing as the end-of-life deadline approaches, which is especially concerning in the critical sectors we surveyed including emergency services, field services and utilities, and defence organisations.

    “Organisations that are still to undertake Windows 11 migration need support to ensure their deployment is not rushed and risky. Panasonic TOUGHBOOK offers customers full transition support to ensure a seamless migration experience, maintain productivity and take the uncertainty from the process. By acting now, businesses can avoid incurring both cost and risk beyond October 2025,” adds Turner.

    To download the Panasonic TOUGHBOOK whitepaper, ‘Navigating the Shift: The Business Case for Upgrading to Windows 11’, please click here: https://eu.connect.panasonic.com/gb/en/whitepapers/navigating-shift-business-case-upgrading-windows-11

    For more information on how Panasonic’s Mobile-IT As-a-Service offering can help your organisation migrate to Windows 11, click here: https://eu.connect.panasonic.com/gb/en/toughbook/Mobile-IT-As-A-Service

    *Research Methodology
    Panasonic commissioned research from 200 decision makers from the UK and Germany (100 each) in March 2025. Respondents are involved with purchasing decisions and working for organisations with 1,000+ employees, in field services and utilities; defence; emergency services; automotive; supply chain and logistics; and manufacturing sectors.

    Panasonic Press Contact
    Lisbeth Lashmana
    Head of European Marketing, Panasonic TOUGHBOOK
    Lisbeth.Lashmana@eu.panasonic.com

    Panasonic Press Contact
    Jim Pople
    C8 Consulting
    jim@c8consulting.co.uk

    About the Panasonic Group
    Founded in 1918, and today a global leader in developing innovative technologies and solutions for wide-ranging applications in the consumer electronics, housing, devices, B2B solutions and energy sectors worldwide, the Panasonic Group switched to an operating company system on April 1, 2022, with Panasonic Holdings Corporation serving as a holding company. The Group reported consolidated net sales of Euro 51.6 billion (8,458.2 billion yen) for the year ended March 31, 2025. To learn more about the Panasonic Group, please visit: https://holdings.panasonic/global/

    About Panasonic Connect Europe GmbH
    Panasonic Connect Europe began operations on October 1st, 2021, creating a new Business-to-Business focused and agile organisation. With more than 400 employees and led by CEO Shusuke Aoki, the business aims to contribute to the success of its customers with innovative products and integrated systems and services – all designed to deliver its vision to Change Work, Advance Society and Connect to Tomorrow.

    Panasonic Connect Europe is headquartered in Wiesbaden and consist of the following business units: 

    • The Mobile Solutions Business Division helping mobile workers improve productivity with its range of Toughbook rugged notebooks, business tablets and handhelds.
    • The Media Entertainment Business Division incorporating Visual System Solutions offering a range of high brightness and reliable projectors as well as high quality displays; and Broadcast & ProAV offering Smart Live Production solutions from an end-to-end portfolio consisting of PTZ and system cameras, camcorders, the Kairos IT/IP platform, switchers and robotic solutions that are widely used for live event capture, sports production, television, and xR studios.
    • Business and Industry Solutions delivering tailored technology solutions focused on Retail, Logistics and Manufacturing. Designed to increase operational efficiency and enhance customer experience, helping businesses to perform at their best, every day.
    • Panasonic Factory Solutions Europe selling a wide range of smart factory solutions including electronics manufacturing solutions, robot and welding systems and software solutions engineering.

    For more information please visit: https://eu.connect.panasonic.com

    Please visit Panasonic Connect Europe’s LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/panasonic-connect-europe/

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Dentsu Expands Partnership with Magnite to Streamline CTV and Video Activation Across EMEA

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONDON, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Magnite (NASDAQ: MGNI), the largest independent sell-side advertising company, has announced a strategic partnership with dentsu in EMEA to accelerate innovation and performance across the media supply chain. Dentsu is tapping into Magnite’s built-for-video tools and technology to power dentsu Total TV and support its ambition to lead in the “Algorithmic Era” of advertising, where interoperability, automation and outcome-driven planning are key.

    Across multiple EMEA markets, including Spain and the UK, the Magnite SpringServe video platform is empowering dentsu with more efficient, data-rich connections to inventory, enabling them to curate premium media experiences with greater precision, transparency and scale. From video and CTV to emerging formats, the partnership reflects a shared commitment to evolving how media is deployed and optimised, with client performance at the centre.

    “Our relationship with dentsu is a great example of how technology and collaboration can unlock real value,” said Julie Selman, SVP, Head of EMEA at Magnite. “We’re proud to support dentsu’s vision for the future by providing the tools and insights needed to deliver stronger results and a more efficient media experience for clients and publishers alike.”

    “In this new era of advertising, media must work harder, smarter and faster,” said Ben Angove, President, Amplifi EMEA & Chief Strategy Officer, Amplifi Global at dentsu. “At dentsu, we are committed to building Next Gen media solutions in partnership with best-in-class technologies that ultimately enable our clients to win and grow in the Algorithmic Era. Our partnership with Magnite gives us the tools to do just that – connecting the right data with the right inventory to drive better results for our clients across the region.”

    Magnite’s technology plays a key role in helping dentsu move beyond transactional media buying, towards a more curated, high-performance approach. The collaboration helps dentsu gain greater visibility and control of their media buys, enabling more intelligent decision-making and unlocking new opportunities for optimisation across the media ecosystem.

    Press contact
    Paige Brewer, Account Executive, Bluestripe Group
    magnite@bluestripegroup.co.uk

    About Magnite
    We’re Magnite (NASDAQ: MGNI), the world’s largest independent sell-side advertising company. Publishers use our technology to monetize their content across all screens and formats including CTV, online video, display, and audio. The world’s leading agencies and brands trust our platform to access brand-safe, high-quality ad inventory and execute billions of advertising transactions each month. Anchored in bustling New York City, sunny Los Angeles, mile high Denver, historic London, colorful Singapore, and down under in Sydney, Magnite has offices across North America, EMEA, LATAM, and APAC.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: 21Shares Partners with Societe Generale to Expand Institutional Access to Crypto ETPs in Europe

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Societe Generale to act as market maker for 21Shares’ Bitcoin and Ethereum ETPs on key German and Eastern Europe fund platforms, expanding institutional access to crypto

    Zurich, 23 July 2025 – 21Shares AG, one of the world’s leading issuers of cryptocurrency exchange-traded products (ETPs), is pleased to announce it has entered into an ETP market making fund platform agreement with Societe Generale, a leading institutional player in exchange traded products, to enhance liquidity across 21Shares ETPs on fund platforms for investors in Germany and Eastern Europe.

    As part of the agreement, Societe Generale will support the trading of 21Shares’ Bitcoin and Ethereum ETPs (ABTC, CBTC, AETH, CETH) by providing over-the-counter liquidity on key fund platforms in Germany and Eastern Europe. These platforms, typically operated by major financial institutions, serve as critical infrastructure for institutional trading. By joining these platforms, where Societe Generale acts as a market maker, 21Shares’ flagship crypto products will now be accessible to a wider base of professional investors, expanding institutional reach across Germany and Eastern Europe.

    “We are thrilled to partner with Societe Generale, a major player in the European ETF space, as we continue to expand access to our ETPs,” said Alistair Byas-Perry, Global Head of Capital Markets & EMEA Investment at 21Shares. “By bringing liquidity to our Bitcoin and Ethereum ETPs, Societe Generale is helping us advance our mission to deliver the most efficient and trusted crypto investment solutions to the market.”

    “Societe Generale is excited to partner with 21Shares, a leading provider of cryptocurrency ETPs, to support the trading of their Bitcoin and Ethereum ETPs on fund platforms. This marks a significant milestone in our commitment to providing innovative liquidity solutions and enhancing access to a wide range of ETFs and ETPs for our clients,” said Martina Schroettle, Head of ETF Sales Trading UK at Societe Generale.

    The partnership is expected to enhance liquidity, execution quality, and ease of access for German and Eastern European institutional investors navigating the digital asset market.

    For more information on 21Shares’ full product suite, visit www.21shares.com.

    Notes to editors

    About 21Shares

    21Shares is one of the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange traded product providers and offers the largest suite of crypto ETPs in the market. The company was founded to make cryptocurrency more accessible to investors, and to bridge the gap between traditional finance and decentralized finance. 21Shares listed the world’s first physically-backed crypto ETP in 2018, building a seven-year track record of creating crypto exchange-traded funds that are listed on some of the biggest, most liquid securities exchanges globally. Backed by a specialised research team, proprietary technology, and deep capital markets expertise, 21Shares delivers innovative, simple and cost-efficient investment solutions.

    21Shares is a member of 21.co, a global leader in decentralized finance. For more information, please visit www.21Shares.com.

    Media Contact
    Matteo Valli
    matteo.valli@21shares.com

    DISCLAIMER

    This document is not an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy or subscribe for securities of 21Shares AG in any jurisdiction. Neither this document nor anything contained herein shall form the basis of, or be relied upon in connection with, any offer or commitment whatsoever or for any other purpose in any jurisdiction. Nothing in this document should be considered investment advice.

    This document and the information contained herein are not for distribution in or into (directly or indirectly) the United States, Canada, Australia or Japan or any other jurisdiction in which the distribution or release would be unlawful.

    This document does not constitute an offer of securities for sale in or into the United States, Canada, Australia or Japan. The securities of 21Shares AG to which these materials relate have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act. There will not be a public offering of securities in the United States. Neither the US Securities and Exchange Commission nor any securities regulatory authority of any state or other jurisdiction of the United States has approved or disapproved of an investment in the securities or passed on the accuracy or adequacy of the contents of this presentation. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offence in the United States.

    Within the United Kingdom, this document is only being distributed to and is only directed at: (i) to investment professionals falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (the “Order”); or (ii) high net worth entities, and other persons to whom it may lawfully be communicated, falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Order (all such persons together being referred to as “relevant persons”); or (iii) persons who fall within Article 43(2) of the Order, including existing members and creditors of the Company or (iv) any other persons to whom this document can be lawfully distributed in circumstances where section 21(1) of the FSMA does not apply. The securities are only available to, and any invitation, offer or agreement to subscribe, purchase or otherwise acquire such securities will be engaged in only with, relevant persons. Any person who is not a relevant person should not act or rely on this document or any of its contents.

    Exclusively for potential investors in any EEA Member State that has implemented the Prospectus Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 the Issuer’s Base Prospectus (EU) is made available on the Issuer’s website under www.21Shares.com.

    The approval of the Issuer’s Base Prospectus (EU) should not be understood as an endorsement by the SFSA of the securities offered or admitted to trading on a regulated market. Eligible potential investors should read the Issuer’s Base Prospectus (EU) and the relevant Final Terms before making an investment decision in order to understand the potential risks associated with the decision to invest in the securities. You are about to purchase a product that is not simple and may be difficult to understand.

    This document constitutes advertisement within the meaning of the Prospectus Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 and the Swiss Financial Services Act (the “FinSA”) and not a prospectus. The 2024 Base Prospectus of 21Shares AG has been deposited pursuant to article 54(2) FinSA with BX Swiss AG in its function as Swiss prospectus review body within the meaning of article 52 FinSA. The 2024 Base Prospectus and the key information document for any products may be obtained at 21Shares AG’s website (https://21shares.com/ir/prospectus or https://21shares.com/ir/kids).

    ###

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Young people in care offered life skills by summer scheme

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    It will help 14 and 15 year olds develop essential independent living skills, covering a range of topics including healthy eating, food hygiene, cooking, budgeting, savvy shopping and homemaking.

    They will also be able to meet with Young Person’s Advisors and supported accommodation providers to learn more about what support is available to them as they get older.

    The programme will be delivered by the Wolverhampton House Project, a council backed initiative which helps to provide homes for care leavers.

    Councillor Jacqui Coogan, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “As young people in care approach adulthood, it’s important they feel prepared, informed, and empowered to take on greater independence.

    “This programme will help bridge the gap between care and adult life by providing hands on experiences in key life skills – at a pace that works for each individual.

    “Giving them practical skills will help them feel more prepared and self reliant, while understanding nutrition, hygiene, and personal care will promote better physical and emotional health.

    “Budgeting and shopping skills will help them to make informed, responsible financial choices, and meeting support providers and seeing real life examples of accommodation will give them a clearer picture of what lies ahead.

    “This programme is all about giving young people the tools and confidence to thrive as they move towards greater independence. It will be a positive, empowering experience that will set a strong foundation for the future.”

    The Wolverhampton House Project, a partnership between the council, The National House Project, Wolverhampton Homes and commercial partner Reconomy, was launched in 2019.

    Over the last 7 years, it has provided dozens of care leavers with an empty Wolverhampton Homes property which they are supported to refurbish and then move into. Through the process, they are able to develop the skills and confidence to build a life for themselves after leaving care.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sign up for a summer of fun with Yo! Active

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Yo! Active is delivered by WV Active and Wolves Foundation and offers a wide range of free activities all year round to children and young people aged up to 18, or 25 for care leavers or those with a disability.

    Young residents whose family pay Council Tax to the City of Wolverhampton Council can take their pick from over 40 hours of free physical activity sessions per week, including free swimming, gym and court hire, multi sport sessions, basketball and special activities for the under 5s.

    There are also tailored sessions for school holidays, including the summer break. Highlights over the next few weeks include family splash and dance sessions, water sports, SEND scoot and ride, ultimate frisbee, family multi sports and a Nerf Club. See the full timetable at Yo! Active – Summer Holiday Activities. 

    Councillor Obaida Ahmed, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Community, said: “Yo! Active is a brilliant way to inspire our children and young people to take part in regular physical activities, with a fantastic range of free opportunities available – not only during the long summer holidays, but all year round.

    “Becoming more physically active can help improve heart health, build strong bones and muscles, control weight and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, and it’s also a great way to make new friends.  

    “Over 15,000 children and young people have already signed up to Yo! Active, and I’d encourage other youngsters, parents and guardians to check out what is on offer so that they don’t miss out.”

    Sign up for free now at Yo! Active.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Expect the unexpected as Derby Festé returns for 2025!

    Source: City of Derby

    We’re so excited to announce that Derby Festé is back for 2025! The city’s free outdoor arts festival returns on Saturday 27 September.

    This vibrant event is proudly presented by Derby City Council with project grant support from Arts Council England National Lottery funding. Festé is delivered in partnership with FABRIC, the Midlands strategic dance development organisation, with additional support from Derby Museums and QUAD.

    After a brief hiatus last year, the festival is back with a bang, promising an exciting and unforgettable experience for all.

    Expect the unexpected as the streets burst into life with a spectacular mix of dance, theatre, circus, parkour, and aerial performance. It’s a full-on sensory adventure designed to spark your imagination and stir your soul.

    This year’s programme is a tale for our times—celebrating the wonder of nature, confronting the challenges it faces, and exploring how we can come together to create change. From the magical and moving to the bold and hilarious, Derby Festé will once again captivate and delight audiences of all ages.

    See it. Feel it. Be part of it. Join artist and cartoonist Scott Walker in a giant street-style doodle art piece, or take a trip to the beach under a giant spinning parasol! Keep an eye out for the mischievous Slinkies as Big Mob rolls through—audience participation optional (but encouraged!).

    With plenty of family-friendly performances, many of which are non-verbal, Derby Festé is accessible to deaf audiences and those who don’t use English as a first language.

    The festival will feature performances by a host of local artists, including Derby-based Maison Foo and Hubbub Theatre. The city’s cultural partners will also be creating a programme of fringe events, meaning the Festé fun will be going on into the evening!

    So put the date in your diary and look out for more information about the programme, which will be coming soon!

    Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Leader of Derby City Council and Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, said:

    I’m thrilled that Derby Feste will return this September. The event is a celebration of our city that highlights the passion, energy and commitment of the people of Derby and we all missed its dynamic presence last year. It promises to be a day to remember!

    Thank you to the Derby Live team and our cultural partners for supporting our vision to put culture at the heart of our city.

    Peter Knott, Midlands Area Director at Arts Council England, said:

    We’re delighted to be supporting Derby Festé 2025 with £47,000 of National Lottery Project Grants funding, and look forward to welcoming this much-loved event back to the city.

    Festé always brings a sense of excitement and exhilaration to Derby, as the community comes together to celebrate arts and culture. We’re already looking forward to this autumn’s edition of the festival.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Silvertown Tunnel has significantly cut congestion in east and south-east London, reducing journey times on approach roads by as much as 70 per cent in the morning peak, and boosting public transport uptake in the capital

    Source: Mayor of London

    • Latest Transport for London (TfL) monitoring data confirms the new Silvertown Tunnel is a huge success for Londoners with eased congestion, increased public transport use and improved journeys for all
    • Since the new tunnel opened on 7 April this year, on budget and on time, there is significantly less congestion around the approaches to the Blackwall Tunnel during peak morning travel hours
    • Londoners using the previously congested northbound A102 approach to the tunnels have seen a 70 per cent decrease in their journey times in the morning peak when compared to the month prior to the Silvertown Tunnel opening
    • New figures also show a huge boost in number of Londoners choosing to take public transport with improved reliability and services seeing more than 20,000 daily trips on the three zero-emission bus routes serving the Blackwall and Silvertown tunnels – an increase of 160 per cent
    • Discounted travel and public transport concessions introduced by the Mayor of London and TfL are working to better connect communities to jobs, opportunities, homes and leisure

    New data published today by Transport for London (TfL) shows that the Silvertown Tunnel is easing congestion for Londoners, boosting public transport use and improving journeys for everyone [1].

    Delivered on time and on budget by the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, the 1.4km Tunnel – which opened on 7 April this year and connects Silvertown to the Greenwich Peninsula in east London – is the first new road crossing east of London’s Tower Bridge in 33 years.

    Latest monitoring data from three months of operations has confirmed that the Tunnel is achieving the objectives it was designed for. These include supporting economic and population growth, in particular in east and south-east London, by providing improved cross-river transport links, and, through road user charging, managing congestion in this area of London.

    The report shows that, since the tunnel’s opening just over three months ago, the performance of the road network has improved and there is significantly less congestion around the Blackwall Tunnel approaches. This is particularly noticeable on the northbound A102 approach to the tunnels which was previously a hotspot for congestion. Now, during weekday morning peak hours, average speeds on the approach road have increased from 9mph in March 2025 – prior to the tunnel opening – to 30mph. These faster journeys mean that there has also been a 70 per cent decrease in journey times in the morning peak when compared with before the Silvertown Tunnel opened (March 2025).

    Currently, there are around 91,000 vehicles using the Blackwall and Silvertown tunnels combined in both directions on a typical weekday, with almost 22,000 of these vehicles using the Silvertown Tunnel.​ It compares with around 96,000 vehicles per day using the Blackwall Tunnel before the Silvertown Tunnel opened – this is a reduction of six per cent despite a 50 per cent increase in road capacity for cars and vans.​ Of all the vehicles crossing the river at this point, only around four per cent are HGVs.

    The data published today covers the first 11 weeks of operation of the Silvertown Tunnel. TfL will continue to closely monitor and report on the scheme’s impact on congestion, resilience and air quality, in line with their obligations under the Development Consent Order for the scheme’s construction.

    The additional resilience that the new crossing provides is directly benefiting Londoners, especially when an incident occurs at the Blackwall Tunnel. Before the Silvertown Tunnel opened, daily incidents and closures caused delays of up to 20 minutes – a six-minute closure could result in three-mile tailbacks.

    There has been a 39 per cent reduction in the number of unplanned closures at the Blackwall Tunnel since the Silvertown Tunnel opened. When the Blackwall Tunnel was closed in both directions on 14 May due to a road traffic incident, there was minimal impact to traffic flow because drivers were able to use the Silvertown Tunnel, demonstrating the additional resilience that the new tunnel provides to the road network.

    Use of bus services operating through the Blackwall and Silvertown Tunnels has also increased. 

    Now, almost one in ten (nine per cent) cross-river trips through the two tunnels are being made by public transport. With new double-deck, zero-emission buses running through the Silvertown Tunnel and making use of the dedicated bus and HGV lane, more than 20,000 journeys are being made each day across new route SL4, the extended 129 and the existing 108 service, an increase of 160 per cent compared to before the scheme opened. It is estimated that around 7,000 of these journeys, which are free on pay as you go for at least the first 12 months, are crossing the river using one of the tunnels.

    In particular, Londoners who use the route 108 bus between Stratford International and Lewisham via the Blackwall Tunnel are experiencing around 23 per cent less excess waiting time – the average time passengers wait beyond the scheduled wait time – compared to the period before the Silvertown Tunnel opened, while peak northbound journey times on route 108 through the tunnel segment have reduced by 4.5 minutes. [2]

    These bus routes are working alongside a free cycle shuttle service between North Greenwich and Royal Docks. Data on use of the cycle shuttle service shows steady demand of around 125-130 cyclists daily, and usage is expected to grow as cyclists plan and adapt their routes to benefit from this innovative and free crossing option. TfL will continue working with boroughs and local stakeholders to raise awareness of the service over the summer months to encourage greater uptake.

    Across the wider road network, early analysis from the data released today shows that total traffic volumes – including on key corridors such as the A2, A12, and A13 – have remained stable and TfL is working closely to manage additional customers using the Woolwich Ferry.

    As the strategic river crossing in east London, the Blackwall and Silvertown tunnels corridor continues to carry the majority of cross-river traffic in east London as expected. Today’s new data shows that eligible TfL customers are signing up for discounts to use the Silvertown Tunnel, including the business discount for host boroughs (Greenwich, Newham and Tower Hamlets) and the east London low-income residents’ discount. [3]

    The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “The new data TfL has published today clearly demonstrates the impact the new Silvertown Tunnel is having. It’s a big win for London. Since it opened in April, we have seen congestion significantly reduced at the Blackwall Tunnel, ensuring more Londoners get to their destination on time. The discounts and concessions we have put in place have also helped to encourage public transport uptake, boosting the numbers of journeys being made on the three cross-river zero-emission bus routes by 160 per cent.

    “This is encouraging early data, and we will continue to monitor the impacts of the scheme as we continue to build a better, greener and fairer London for everyone.”

    Alex Williams, Chief Customer and Strategy Officer at TfL, said: “It’s great to see that our initial analysis is showing that the new Silvertown Tunnel, supported by user charges, is already reducing congestion around the Blackwall Tunnel, improving journey times, and supporting thousands of Londoners to cross the river using public transport such as the free bus services that the tunnel facilitates.

    “We are fully committed to monitoring the impact of the tunnels, including how it impacts other river crossings and traffic along major and local roads in London, and will work hard to ensure that the benefits of the scheme are embedded to secure long-term improvements for Londoners.”

    Suzi Rullo, Senior Development Manager, Royal Docks Team, said: “The opening of the Silvertown Tunnel provides a significant boost to infrastructure in the Royal Docks – enhancing bus services, improving cycle access via the Lower Lea Crossing and delivering major upgrades to the road network around the Tidal Basin Roundabout. These new connections add to the Royal Docks excellent transport links – the Elizabeth Line, Jubilee Line, DLR and the Royal Docks Corridor road improvement initiative – helping to drive growth and unlock investment across the area.

    “As the tunnel’s construction works have completed, we are now working with TFL to release the land back to landowners in preparation for development of the Thameside West planning consent – set to deliver 5,000 new homes, strategic industrial land and a new DLR station.”

    Muniya Barua, Deputy Chief Executive at BusinessLDN, said: “It’s positive to see the Silvertown Tunnel already helping to improve journey times and reduce congestion only a few months after opening. The project shows what’s possible when the public and private sectors work in partnership to deliver vital infrastructure.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Caroline Russell AM launches report, Changing the Narrative – Ending the acceptance of road death in London

    Source: Mayor of London

    Caroline Russell AM launches report, Changing the Narrative – Ending the acceptance of road death in London

    Green Party member of the London Assembly, Caroline Russell, today published her report: Changing the Narrative – Ending the acceptance of road death in London. [1]

    It contains recommendations for Transport for London’s (TfL) Vision Zero Action Plan 2, to be published later this year.

    The first Vision Zero Action Plan was produced by the Mayor and TfL in 2018, with actions to ensure: “no one to be killed in or by a London bus by 2030, and for all deaths and serious injuries from road collisions to be eliminated from London’s streets by 2041.” [2]

    Yet, at a TfL Board meeting in June 2025, the TfL Commissioner stated: “significant acceleration is needed to meet the 2041 Vision Zero ambition.” [3]

    Caroline’s report looks at the widespread acceptance of cars dominating our public realm and shares ideas for big changes to achieve Vision Zero. These cover street design, communication and legislation.

    Green Party London Assembly Member Caroline Russell said:

    “Collisions, never ‘accidents’, happen daily. They happen when people make mistakes. The problem is that when a driver loses control at the wheel through fatigue, distraction or even recklessness, people walking, crossing the road or travelling on a bike or in another vehicle can be harmed.

    “My report calls on TfL – and outlines proposals – to ensure our streets are properly inclusive, safe and convenient for everyone to use. At a time when practical measures to reduce danger are all too often framed as ‘anti-driver’ rather than as helpful interventions to ensure everyone gets home safely from work or school or a trip to the shops, TfL must address the polarisation of debate about measures to reduce danger on our streets.

    “The Mayor and TfL need to lead a big conversation about how every Londoner can play their part in cutting miles driven, injuries sustained, and lives lost on London’s roads each day.

    “I want to hear Londoners’ ideas about ending road danger where they live, so I can share them with TfL while Vision Zero Action Plan 2 is being drafted.” 

    Caroline Russell will be hosting a roundtable participatory event at City Hall (Wednesday 23 July 2025) to mark the launch of the report. Attendees will include campaigners, bereaved families, crash survivors, policy experts, representatives from TfL and academics.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man convicted for murdering a stranger on a night out in east London

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    An investigation by Met detectives has secured a murder conviction against a man who attacked a stranger on a night out in east London.

    Hamza Kamali, 29, was found guilty at the Old Bailey on Tuesday 22 July of murdering 38-year-old Saley Beya outside a nightclub in Romford Road E7 in the early hours of Saturday, 10 August 2024.

    Detective Superintendent Kelly Allen, Specialist Crime North, said: “Saley’s family and loved ones have endured incredible pain and suffering over this past year and I am thinking of them today as they process this outcome.

    “Kamali’s actions that night were violent and deliberate. He went out armed with a knife – clearly intent on causing harm. We will never know what prompted his interaction with Saley, but it is clear he is a very dangerous individual with little regard for human life and I’m pleased the jury were able to recognise the threat he poses to the public.”

    On the evening of Friday, 9 August Saley and his friends had attended a party in Stratford before deciding to continue their evening at a nightclub, arriving at the Romford Road venue at about 02.30hrs.

    Around an hour later they were all outside when an altercation took place between one of Saley’s friends and a group of men who were known to Kamali. Shortly after, Kamali arrived at the scene and following a brief interaction with the victim the situation escalated into violence and Kamali stabbed Saley in the leg.

    Saley was able to run from the scene, but he was pursued by Kamali who kicked out at him several times as he tried to get away from him. Eventually giving up his pursuit, Kamali returned to Romford Road, before leaving the scene with others.

    Meanwhile Saley had succumbed to his wound and collapsed in the street. Emergency services attended and paramedics attempted to stem the bleeding, but Saley went into cardiac arrest on his way to hospital. He remained in a critical condition for nearly three weeks before sadly dying on 29 August.

    Following the incident, Kamali returned to his home address. After 30 minutes he reappeared from the property wearing different clothes and carrying a full plastic bag which he was then seen to discard. That bag was never recovered.

    After Kamali’s arrest on 16 August a search of his home led to the discovery of a pair of bloodstained trainers – later identified to be his own. He had a noticeable injury to his hand – a wound CCTV had shown him tending to with a tissue in the immediate aftermath of the stabbing. Blood from this injury was also found at the crime scene. It is believed he injured himself with his knife in the course of attacking Saley.

    Kamali (03.04.96), who is of Henniker Road, Stratford was convicted of murder and possession of an offensive weapon. He is due to appear at the same court for sentencing on Thursday, 24 July.

    + Abdi Ulusow, 28 (03.09.96), of Hathaway Crescent E12 and Edson Bernardo, 26 (10.07.99), of Carlton Avenue, Westcliff-on-Sea appeared at the Old Bailey on 3 July where they pleaded guilty to affray and possession of an offensive weapon (machete and pole) in connection with the incident. Both will also be sentenced at the same court on 24 July.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: RIBER: 2025 FIRST-HALF BUSINESS – FULL-YEAR REVENUES EXPECTED TO EXCEED €40M

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    2025 FIRST-HALF BUSINESS

    FULL-YEAR REVENUES EXPECTED TO EXCEED €40M

    Bezons, July 23, 2025 – 8:00am – RIBER, the global leader in Molecular Beam Epitaxy (MBE) equipment for the semiconductor industry, reports its revenues for the first half of 2025.

    Business developments

    At June 30 (€m) 2025 2024 Change
    Systems 7.8 9.4 -17%
    Services and accessories 3.0 4.3 -31%
    Total half-year revenues 10.7 13.7 -22%

    In a complex international environment, RIBER continues to demonstrate the resilience of its business model and the appeal of its technology offering.

    The Company reiterates that its business activity is subject to seasonal trends, with revenue structurally lower in the first half of the year.

    As of June 30, 2025, first-half revenues amounted to €10.7m, down 22% compared with the same period in 2024.

    Systems revenues totaled €7.8m, down 17%, reflecting the delivery schedule agreed with customers for systems on order in 2025. This corresponds to the delivery of three machines, including two production systems, compared with three production systems in the same period last year.

    Revenues for services and accessories came to €3.0m, down 31%, primarily due to a temporary decline in research-related orders, particularly in the United States, against a backdrop of tighter budgets in universities and research laboratories.

    The geographical breakdown of half-year revenues was as follows: Europe (15%), Asia (70%) and North America (13%).

    Order book developments

    At June 30 (€m) 2025 2024 Change
    Systems 22.5 30.2 -25%
    Services and accessories 5.2 5.8 -11%
    Total order book 27.7 36.0 -23%

    Despite ongoing geopolitical tensions and regulatory constraints, RIBER maintained strong commercial momentum during the first half of 2025.
    The Company secured five new system orders, including the first order for ROSIE, its new 300 mm silicon photonics platform, which recently entered its industrialization phase.

    As of June 30, 2025, the systems order book stood at €22.5m, down 25% from the high base in the first half of 2024. It includes nine systems, of which six are production machines. This change is mainly due to the denial of two export licenses, representing €4m in unbooked orders, and longer license approval timelines, which delayed the booking of already-identified orders.

    The services and accessories order book is down 11% to €5.2m.

    Outlook

    RIBER anticipates an improvement in order intake during the second half of the year, driven by major global investment programs in the semiconductor industry.

    The Company also expects to benefit from the ramp-up of its ROSIE platform, a breakthrough technology in silicon-based integrated photonics. Following the signing of a strategic partnership with the Novo Nordisk Foundation Quantum Computing Programme (NQCP) and the first unit sale, RIBER aims to leverage growing interest from both research institutions and industrial players for solutions compatible with silicon fabrication lines.

    While short-term momentum in research-related services and accessories remains uncertain, the systems business is expected to remain broadly stable in 2025. These elements do not undermine the Company’s strong fundamentals.

    Given the current order book for delivery this year and the upcoming business opportunities, RIBER expects to generate full-year revenue of over €40m in 2025.

    Financial calendar

    First-half 2025 results will be published on September 25, 2025, before the start of trading.

    About RIBER

    Founded in 1964, RIBER is the global market leader for MBE – molecular beam epitaxy – equipment. It designs and produces equipment for the semiconductor industry and provides scientific and technical support for its clients (hardware and software), maintaining their equipment and optimizing their performance and output levels. Accelerating the performance of electronics, RIBER’s equipment performs an essential role in the development of advanced semiconductors that are used in numerous applications, from information technologies to photonics (lasers, sensors, etc.), 5G telecommunications networks and research, including quantum computing. RIBER is a BPI France-approved innovative company and is listed on the Euronext Growth Paris market (ISIN: FR0000075954).
    www.riber.com

    Contacts

    RIBER
    Annie Geoffroy | tel: +33 (0)1 39 96 65 00 | invest@riber.com

    ACTUS FINANCE & COMMUNICATION
    Cyril Combe | tel: +33 (0)1 53 67 36 36 | ccombe@actus.fr

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: RIBER: 2025 FIRST-HALF BUSINESS – FULL-YEAR REVENUES EXPECTED TO EXCEED €40M

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    2025 FIRST-HALF BUSINESS

    FULL-YEAR REVENUES EXPECTED TO EXCEED €40M

    Bezons, July 23, 2025 – 8:00am – RIBER, the global leader in Molecular Beam Epitaxy (MBE) equipment for the semiconductor industry, reports its revenues for the first half of 2025.

    Business developments

    At June 30 (€m) 2025 2024 Change
    Systems 7.8 9.4 -17%
    Services and accessories 3.0 4.3 -31%
    Total half-year revenues 10.7 13.7 -22%

    In a complex international environment, RIBER continues to demonstrate the resilience of its business model and the appeal of its technology offering.

    The Company reiterates that its business activity is subject to seasonal trends, with revenue structurally lower in the first half of the year.

    As of June 30, 2025, first-half revenues amounted to €10.7m, down 22% compared with the same period in 2024.

    Systems revenues totaled €7.8m, down 17%, reflecting the delivery schedule agreed with customers for systems on order in 2025. This corresponds to the delivery of three machines, including two production systems, compared with three production systems in the same period last year.

    Revenues for services and accessories came to €3.0m, down 31%, primarily due to a temporary decline in research-related orders, particularly in the United States, against a backdrop of tighter budgets in universities and research laboratories.

    The geographical breakdown of half-year revenues was as follows: Europe (15%), Asia (70%) and North America (13%).

    Order book developments

    At June 30 (€m) 2025 2024 Change
    Systems 22.5 30.2 -25%
    Services and accessories 5.2 5.8 -11%
    Total order book 27.7 36.0 -23%

    Despite ongoing geopolitical tensions and regulatory constraints, RIBER maintained strong commercial momentum during the first half of 2025.
    The Company secured five new system orders, including the first order for ROSIE, its new 300 mm silicon photonics platform, which recently entered its industrialization phase.

    As of June 30, 2025, the systems order book stood at €22.5m, down 25% from the high base in the first half of 2024. It includes nine systems, of which six are production machines. This change is mainly due to the denial of two export licenses, representing €4m in unbooked orders, and longer license approval timelines, which delayed the booking of already-identified orders.

    The services and accessories order book is down 11% to €5.2m.

    Outlook

    RIBER anticipates an improvement in order intake during the second half of the year, driven by major global investment programs in the semiconductor industry.

    The Company also expects to benefit from the ramp-up of its ROSIE platform, a breakthrough technology in silicon-based integrated photonics. Following the signing of a strategic partnership with the Novo Nordisk Foundation Quantum Computing Programme (NQCP) and the first unit sale, RIBER aims to leverage growing interest from both research institutions and industrial players for solutions compatible with silicon fabrication lines.

    While short-term momentum in research-related services and accessories remains uncertain, the systems business is expected to remain broadly stable in 2025. These elements do not undermine the Company’s strong fundamentals.

    Given the current order book for delivery this year and the upcoming business opportunities, RIBER expects to generate full-year revenue of over €40m in 2025.

    Financial calendar

    First-half 2025 results will be published on September 25, 2025, before the start of trading.

    About RIBER

    Founded in 1964, RIBER is the global market leader for MBE – molecular beam epitaxy – equipment. It designs and produces equipment for the semiconductor industry and provides scientific and technical support for its clients (hardware and software), maintaining their equipment and optimizing their performance and output levels. Accelerating the performance of electronics, RIBER’s equipment performs an essential role in the development of advanced semiconductors that are used in numerous applications, from information technologies to photonics (lasers, sensors, etc.), 5G telecommunications networks and research, including quantum computing. RIBER is a BPI France-approved innovative company and is listed on the Euronext Growth Paris market (ISIN: FR0000075954).
    www.riber.com

    Contacts

    RIBER
    Annie Geoffroy | tel: +33 (0)1 39 96 65 00 | invest@riber.com

    ACTUS FINANCE & COMMUNICATION
    Cyril Combe | tel: +33 (0)1 53 67 36 36 | ccombe@actus.fr

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: CoinShares Asset Management Becomes First Continental European Regulated Asset Manager to Receive MiCA Authorisation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    First major European asset manager to combine MiCA, MiFID, and AIFM authorisations – creating new investment possibilities across €33 trillion European asset management market

    23 July 2025 | SAINT HELIER, Jersey | CoinShares International Limited (“CoinShares” or “the Group”) (Nasdaq Stockholm: CS; US OTCQX: CNSRF), the European leading investment company specialising in digital assets with over $9 billion in assets under management, today announced its French subsidiary, CoinShares Asset Management, has received authorisation under the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) Regulation, making it the first continental European regulated asset management company to achieve this milestone.

    This authorisation positions CoinShares as the only asset management firm in continental Europe to hold a rare triple regulatory license combination, enabling comprehensive investment services across all asset classes throughout the European Union:

    • AIFM License – Alternative Investment Fund Management and delegated UCITS management
    • MiFID License – Portfolio management and investment advice on traditional financial instruments
    • MiCA Authorisation – Portfolio management and advice on crypto-assets

    Setting New Standards for Professional Crypto Asset Management

    The MiCA authorisation enables CoinShares to provide institutional-grade portfolio management services across all asset classes and investment vehicle types throughout the EU, with operations currently passported in France, Germany, Cyprus, Ireland, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, and the Netherlands, with possibility to extend across all EU member states.

    This regulatory achievement directly addresses a critical gap in the European crypto investment landscape, where many platforms present themselves as asset managers without the proper licensing, organisational structure, or necessary separation of duties between custody, administration, execution, and portfolio management functions.

    Jean-Marie Mognetti, Co-Founder and CEO of CoinShares commented: “Receiving MiCA authorisation from the AMF is a pivotal milestone, not just for CoinShares, but for the entire European digital asset industry. For too long, asset managers operating in crypto have been confined to partial or improvised regulatory frameworks. With MiCA, we now have a clear, harmonised structure across the EU, and CoinShares is proud to be the first in continental Europe to meet that standard as a fully regulated asset manager.

    This authorisation sends a strong signal: crypto is here to stay and it belongs within a professional, transparent, and investor-centric regulatory environment. CoinShares has always believed that innovation and regulation can go hand in hand. As a publicly listed company, our commitment to governance, accountability, and excellence is now matched by a regulatory foundation that enables us to serve our clients across all asset classes, from traditional to digital.”

    Unique Market Position

    The comprehensive regulatory framework positions the Group as the only firm in continental Europe capable of:

    • Providing genuine professional active management services across both traditional and digital assets
    • Offering services through clients’ preferred platforms with proper segregation of custody and management duties
    • Delivering institutional-grade portfolio management with EU regulatory oversight
    • Serving as a regulated counterparty for institutional investors requiring compliance with fiduciary standards

    About CoinShares

    CoinShares is a leading global digital asset manager that delivers a broad range of financial services across investment management, trading, and securities to a wide array of clients that include corporations, financial institutions, and individuals. Founded in 2013, the firm is headquartered in Jersey, with offices in France, Stockholm, the UK, and the US. CoinShares is regulated in Jersey by the Jersey Financial Services Commission, in France by the Autorité des marchés financiers, and in the US by the Securities and Exchange Commission, National Futures Association and Financial Industry Regulatory Authority. CoinShares is publicly listed on the Nasdaq Stockholm under the ticker CS and the OTCQX under the ticker CNSRF.

    For more information on CoinShares, please visit: https://coinshares.com
    Company | +44 (0)1534 513 100 | enquiries@coinshares.com
    Investor Relations | +44 (0)1534 513 100 | enquiries@coinshares.com

    Press Contact

    CoinShares
    Benoît Pellevoizin
    bpellevoizin@coinshares.com

    M Group Strategic Communications
    Peter Padovano
    coinshares@mgroupsc.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Gaza – an open question for NZ’s foreign minister Winston Peters

    OPEN QUESTION: By Bryan Bruce

    Dear Rt Hon Winston Peters,

    There was a time when New Zealanders stood up for what was morally right. There are memorials around our country for those who died fighting fascism, we wrote parts of the UN Charter of Human Rights, we took an anti-nuclear stance in 1984, and three years prior to that, many of us stood against apartheid in South Africa by boycotting South African products and actively protesting against the 1981 Springbok Rugby Tour.

    To call out the Israeli government for genocide and ethnic cleansing in Gaza is not to be antisemitic. Nor is it to be pro- Hamas. It is to simply to be pro-human.

    While acknowledging the peace and humanitarian initiatives on the Foreign Affairs website, I note there is no calling out of the genocide and ethnic cleansing that cannot be denied is happening in Gaza.

    The Israeli government is systematically demolishing whole towns and cities — including churches, mosques, even removing trees and vegetation — to deprive the Palestinian people the opportunity to return to their homeland; and there have been constant blocks to humanitarian aid as part of a policy forced starvation.

    There is no doubt crimes against international law have been committed, which is why the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague has issued warrants for the arrest of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Yoav Gallant, his former defence minister, for alleged crimes against humanity.

    So, my question to you is: why are you not pictured standing in this photograph (below) alongside the representatives from 33 nations at the July 16 2025 Gaza emergency conference in Bogotá?

    The nations that took part in the Gaza emergency summit in were:

    Norway, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain, Turkey, Colombia, South Africa, Bolivia, Cuba, Honduras, Malaysia, Namibia, Algeria, Bangladesh, Botswana, Brazil, Chile, China, Djibouti, Indonesia, Iraq, Ireland, Lebanon, Libya, Mexico, Nicaragua, Oman, Pakistan, Palestine, Qatar, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Uruguay and Venezuela.

    Representatives from 33 nations at the July 16 2025 Gaza emergency conference in Bogotá. Image: bryanbruce.substack.com

    Is your policy simply to fall in behind the USA denying there is genocide and ethnic cleansing happening in Gaza?

    If not, are you prepared to endorse the six coordinated diplomatic, legal and economic measures already signed up to by 12 of the participating countries in the Bogetà summit, to restrain Israel’s assault on the Occupied Palestinian Territories and defend international law at large?

    Remaining countries, which could still include New Zealand, have a deadline of September 20, to coincide with the 80th UN General Assembly, for additional states to join them.

    The 6 agreed measures are:
     Prevent the provision or transfer of arms, munitions, military fuel, related military equipment, and dual-use items to Israel.

    Prevent the transit, docking, and servicing of vessels at any port
     in all cases where there is a clear risk of the vessel being used to carry arms, munitions, military fuel, related military equipment, and dual-use items to Israel

    Prevent the carriage of arms, munitions, military fuel, related military equipment, and dual-use items to Israel on vessels bearing our flag . . .  and ensure full accountability, including de-flagging, for non-compliance with this prohibition.

    Commence an urgent review of all public contracts, to prevent public institutions and funds from supporting Israel’s illegal occupation of the Palestinian Territory and entrenching its unlawful presence.

    Comply with obligations to ensure accountability for the most serious crimes under international law, through robust, impartial and independent investigations and prosecutions at national or international levels, to ensure justice for all victims and the prevention of future crimes.

    Support universal jurisdiction mandates, as and where applicable in national legal frameworks and judiciaries, to ensure justice for victims of international crimes committed in the Occupied Palestinian Territory.

    In addition, are you prepared to specifically support the enforcement of the International Criminal Court arrest warrants issued last year for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Yoav Gallant, his former defence minister, for alleged crimes against humanity and war crimes in Gaza including murder and forced starvation, in a war that has left more than 211,000 Palestinians, including many children, dead, maimed, or missing since October 2023, according to the Gaza Health Ministry? (That’s a figure that is approximately the entire population of Hamiton and Rotorua).

    What then is the NZ government’s policy? Are we going to support International Law and call out the Israeli government’s acts of genocide in Gaza, or not?

    Yours sincerely,

    Bryan Bruce
     Investigative documentary maker, journalist and podcaster.
     Auckland.

    Bryan Bruce is a New Zealand investigative journalist and documentary maker. Republished from Bruce’s substack page.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Gaza – an open question for NZ’s foreign minister Winston Peters

    OPEN QUESTION: By Bryan Bruce

    Dear Rt Hon Winston Peters,

    There was a time when New Zealanders stood up for what was morally right. There are memorials around our country for those who died fighting fascism, we wrote parts of the UN Charter of Human Rights, we took an anti-nuclear stance in 1984, and three years prior to that, many of us stood against apartheid in South Africa by boycotting South African products and actively protesting against the 1981 Springbok Rugby Tour.

    To call out the Israeli government for genocide and ethnic cleansing in Gaza is not to be antisemitic. Nor is it to be pro- Hamas. It is to simply to be pro-human.

    While acknowledging the peace and humanitarian initiatives on the Foreign Affairs website, I note there is no calling out of the genocide and ethnic cleansing that cannot be denied is happening in Gaza.

    The Israeli government is systematically demolishing whole towns and cities — including churches, mosques, even removing trees and vegetation — to deprive the Palestinian people the opportunity to return to their homeland; and there have been constant blocks to humanitarian aid as part of a policy forced starvation.

    There is no doubt crimes against international law have been committed, which is why the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague has issued warrants for the arrest of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Yoav Gallant, his former defence minister, for alleged crimes against humanity.

    So, my question to you is: why are you not pictured standing in this photograph (below) alongside the representatives from 33 nations at the July 16 2025 Gaza emergency conference in Bogotá?

    The nations that took part in the Gaza emergency summit in were:

    Norway, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain, Turkey, Colombia, South Africa, Bolivia, Cuba, Honduras, Malaysia, Namibia, Algeria, Bangladesh, Botswana, Brazil, Chile, China, Djibouti, Indonesia, Iraq, Ireland, Lebanon, Libya, Mexico, Nicaragua, Oman, Pakistan, Palestine, Qatar, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Uruguay and Venezuela.

    Representatives from 33 nations at the July 16 2025 Gaza emergency conference in Bogotá. Image: bryanbruce.substack.com

    Is your policy simply to fall in behind the USA denying there is genocide and ethnic cleansing happening in Gaza?

    If not, are you prepared to endorse the six coordinated diplomatic, legal and economic measures already signed up to by 12 of the participating countries in the Bogetà summit, to restrain Israel’s assault on the Occupied Palestinian Territories and defend international law at large?

    Remaining countries, which could still include New Zealand, have a deadline of September 20, to coincide with the 80th UN General Assembly, for additional states to join them.

    The 6 agreed measures are:
     Prevent the provision or transfer of arms, munitions, military fuel, related military equipment, and dual-use items to Israel.

    Prevent the transit, docking, and servicing of vessels at any port
     in all cases where there is a clear risk of the vessel being used to carry arms, munitions, military fuel, related military equipment, and dual-use items to Israel

    Prevent the carriage of arms, munitions, military fuel, related military equipment, and dual-use items to Israel on vessels bearing our flag . . .  and ensure full accountability, including de-flagging, for non-compliance with this prohibition.

    Commence an urgent review of all public contracts, to prevent public institutions and funds from supporting Israel’s illegal occupation of the Palestinian Territory and entrenching its unlawful presence.

    Comply with obligations to ensure accountability for the most serious crimes under international law, through robust, impartial and independent investigations and prosecutions at national or international levels, to ensure justice for all victims and the prevention of future crimes.

    Support universal jurisdiction mandates, as and where applicable in national legal frameworks and judiciaries, to ensure justice for victims of international crimes committed in the Occupied Palestinian Territory.

    In addition, are you prepared to specifically support the enforcement of the International Criminal Court arrest warrants issued last year for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Yoav Gallant, his former defence minister, for alleged crimes against humanity and war crimes in Gaza including murder and forced starvation, in a war that has left more than 211,000 Palestinians, including many children, dead, maimed, or missing since October 2023, according to the Gaza Health Ministry? (That’s a figure that is approximately the entire population of Hamiton and Rotorua).

    What then is the NZ government’s policy? Are we going to support International Law and call out the Israeli government’s acts of genocide in Gaza, or not?

    Yours sincerely,

    Bryan Bruce
     Investigative documentary maker, journalist and podcaster.
     Auckland.

    Bryan Bruce is a New Zealand investigative journalist and documentary maker. Republished from Bruce’s substack page.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • Focus on trade, investment during PM Modi’s UK visit: High Commissioner Doraiswami

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to the United Kingdom will prioritise trade, investment, and the advancement of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), Indian High Commissioner to the UK, Vikram Doraiswami, said on Tuesday.

    Speaking to IANS, Doraiswami underlined that preparations are in full swing to reinforce the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two nations. “Our entire team is working in London to prepare for the visit,” he said.

    “We will be discussing a lot on trade and investment, especially how to implement the trade agreement once it is signed, and how both countries can further strengthen their economic relationship,” Doraiswami said. He added that Indian companies operating in the UK have been “largely satisfied” with market access.

    Doraiswami noted that while the core negotiations on the FTA were concluded in May, certain formalities remain. “The main negotiations have concluded, but some paperwork is still pending,” he said, adding that the process, known as ‘legal scrubbing,’ ensures the agreement is legally sound and all documents are in order.

    PM Modi is set to visit the UK from July 23–24 at the invitation of British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. It will be his fourth visit to the country.

    According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the visit will include a review of progress under the bilateral strategic partnership. Discussions will cover trade, technology, defence, climate, health, education, and people-to-people ties.

    IANS

  • MIL-OSI: Prosafe SE: Commencement of subscription period for the Warrants Offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN AUSTRALIA, CANADA, THE HONG KONG SPECIAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGION OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA, SOUTH AFRICA, NEW ZEALAND, JAPAN OR THE UNITED STATES, OR ANY OTHER JURISDICTION IN WHICH SUCH RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION WOULD BE UNLAWFUL 

    Reference is made to the stock exchange announcement made by Prosafe SE (“Prosafe” or the “Company“) on 18 July 2025 regarding the publication of a prospectus (the “Prospectus“) approved by the Norwegian Financial Supervisory Authority for, inter alia, the offering of up to 17,868,651 warrants (the “Warrants“) (the “Warrants Offering“).

    The subscription period for the Warrants Offering (the “Subscription Period“) commences today, 23 July 2025 at 09:00 hours (CEST) and expires on 6 August 2025 at 16:30 hours (CEST), unless extended in accordance with the terms set out in the Prospectus.

    The Warrants may be subscribed for by shareholders of the Company as of 16 May 2025, as recorded in the Company’s shareholder register in Euronext Securities Oslo (VPS) on 20 May 2025 (the “Record Date“) (the “Eligible Shareholders“). The Eligible Shareholders shall have a preferential right to subscribe for and be allocated the Warrants in proportion to their shareholding in the Company on the Record Date, pursuant to Section 11-13 of the Norwegian Public Limited Liability Companies Act, cf. Section 10-4. The preferential right to subscribe for the Warrants may not be transferred by the Eligible Shareholders. Oversubscription or subscription without subscription rights is not permitted. The Warrants may not be subscribed for by investors in jurisdictions where such subscription is not permitted or where the offering of such warrants is not legally allowed.

    No consideration shall be paid for the Warrants. The Warrants shall not be transferable. The Warrants will be registered in Euronext Securities Oslo (VPS).

    Subscriptions for Warrants must be made by submitting a correctly completed subscription form to the Receiving Agent (as defined below) during the Subscription Period, or may, for subscribers who are residents of Norway with a Norwegian personal identification number, be made online during the Subscription Period. Please see the Prospectus for further information about the Warrants Offering, including subscription procedures and the complete terms of the Warrants Offering. The Prospectus (including the subscription form for the Warrants Offering) is, subject to applicable securities laws, available on the Company’s website: www.prosafe.com.

    Subscriptions may only be made on the basis of the Prospectus. Allocation of Warrants will be made by the Company’s board of directors based on the number of Warrants subscribed for by each shareholder in accordance with the number of Warrants each subscriber has the right to subscribe for.

    The Warrants may be exercised during the period starting at 09:00 (CEST) on 11 August 2025 and concluding at 16:30 (CEST) on 25 August 2025 (the “Exercise Period“). One Warrant entitles the holder to request the issuance of one ordinary share in the Company. Eligible Shareholders having validly subscribed for and been allocated Warrants will receive an exercise form prior to the Exercise Period. Exercise shall be carried out by submitting a correctly completed exercise form to the Receiving Agent (as defined below) during the Exercise Period, or may, for Warrant holders who are residents of Norway with a Norwegian personal identification number, be made online during the Exercise Period. Warrants that are not exercised before the expiry of the Exercise Period will have no value and will lapse without compensation to the holder.

    To the extent members of the Company’s board of directors or management or closely related parties of such are prohibited from exercising Warrants in the Exercise Period due to securities law restrictions, these shall have the right to exercise Warrants during a period which expires two weeks after such restrictions lapse, as set out in the resolution to issue the Warrants at the Company’s extraordinary general meeting held on 16 May 2025 (the “EGM“). Exercises can in any case not take place after 31 December 2025.

    The subscription price upon exercise of the Warrants is EUR 0.01 per new share. Pursuant to the resolution adopted by the EGM, the Company plans to establish a NOK-based exchange mechanism for the contribution, whereby each exercising Warrant holder will be debited a NOK amount covering the EUR subscription amount, currently expected to be NOK 0.15 per share.

    Advokatfirmaet Schjødt AS acts as legal advisor to the Company in connection with the Warrants Offering. DNB Issuer Services, a part of DNB Bank ASA (the “Receiving Agent” as well as the “Settlement Agent“) acts as both the Receiving Agent and Settlement Agent for the Company in connection with the Warrants Offering.

    For further information, please contact:

    Terje Askvig, CEO

    Phone: +47 952 03 886

    Reese McNeel, CFO

    Phone: +47 415 08 186

    This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act and the requirements of Oslo Børs’ Continuing Obligations.

    About Prosafe

    Prosafe is a leading owner and operator of semi-submersible accommodation vessels. The company is listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange with ticker code PRS. For more information, please refer to https://www.prosafe.com (https://www.prosafe.com/)

    Important information

    This announcement is not and does not form a part of any offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to purchase, any securities of the Company. The distribution of this announcement and other information may be restricted by law in certain jurisdictions. Copies of this announcement are not being made and may not be distributed or sent into any jurisdiction in which such distribution would be unlawful or would require registration or other measures. Persons into whose possession this announcement or such other information should come are required to inform themselves about and to observe any such restrictions.

    The securities referred to in this announcement have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act“), and accordingly may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act and in accordance with applicable U.S. state securities laws. The Company does not intend to register any part of the offering or their securities in the United States or to conduct a public offering of securities in the United States. Any sale in the United States of the securities mentioned in this announcement will be made solely to “qualified institutional buyers” as defined in Rule 144A under the Securities Act.

    In any EEA Member State, this communication is only addressed to and is only directed at qualified investors in that Member State within the meaning of the Prospectus Regulation, i.e., only to investors who can receive the offer without an approved prospectus in such EEA Member State. The expression “Prospectus Regulation” means Regulation 2017/1129 as amended together with any applicable implementing measures in any Member State.

    This communication is only being distributed to and is only directed at persons in the United Kingdom that are (i) investment professionals falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005, as amended (the “Order”) or (ii) high net worth entities, and other persons to whom this announcement may lawfully be communicated, falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Order (all such persons together being referred to as “relevant persons”). This communication must not be acted on or relied on by persons who are not relevant persons. Any investment or investment activity to which this communication relates is available only for relevant persons and will be engaged in only with relevant persons. Persons distributing this communication must satisfy themselves that it is lawful to do so.

    Matters discussed in this announcement may constitute forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and may be identified by words such as “believe”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “strategy”, “intends”, “estimate”, “will”, “may”, “continue”, “should” and similar expressions. The forward-looking statements in this release are based upon various assumptions, many of which are based, in turn, upon further assumptions. Although the Company believes that these assumptions were reasonable when made, these assumptions are inherently subject to significant known and unknown risks, uncertainties, contingencies and other important factors which are difficult or impossible to predict and are beyond its control.

    Actual events may differ significantly from any anticipated development due to a number of factors, including without limitation, changes in investment levels and need for the Company’s services, changes in the general economic, political and market conditions in the markets in which the Company operate, the Company’s ability to attract, retain and motivate qualified personnel, changes in the Company’s ability to engage in commercially acceptable acquisitions and strategic investments, and changes in laws and regulation and the potential impact of legal proceedings and actions. Such risks, uncertainties, contingencies and other important factors could cause actual events to differ materially from the expectations expressed or implied in this release by such forward-looking statements. The Company does not provide any guarantees that the assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements in this announcement are free from errors nor does it accept any responsibility for the future accuracy of the opinions expressed in this announcement or any obligation to update or revise the statements in this announcement to reflect subsequent events. You should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements in this announcement. The information, opinions and forward-looking statements contained in this announcement speak only as at its date, and are subject to change without notice. The Company does not undertake any obligation to review, update, confirm, or to release publicly any revisions to any forward-looking statements to reflect events that occur or circumstances that arise in relation to the content of this announcement.

    This announcement is for information purposes only and is not to be relied upon in substitution for the exercise of independent judgment. It is not intended as investment advice and under no circumstances is it to be used or considered as an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities or a recommendation to buy or sell any securities in the Company.

    The MIL Network –