NewzIntel.com

Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Managing risk-reduction even in times of crisis: UK Statement to the OSCE

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Speech

    Managing risk-reduction even in times of crisis: UK Statement to the OSCE

    Ambassador Holland reiterates the UK’s support to Ukraine, calls on Russia to end its war and to use this unique Forum for risk-reduction, even in crisis.

    Thank you Madam Chair, dear Kaja, and to the Secretary General, for setting out Estonia’s priorities for the Forum for Security Co-operation this Trimester.  You can count on the UK’s continued support, as you chair our Forum at this crucial time for Euro-Atlantic Security. 

    Madam Chair, as we know, the FSC’s mandate is broad and has rightly evolved over decades.  In 1996, our Heads of State and Government adopted a Decision tasking the Forum to manage “preventive diplomacy, crisis management and post-conflict rehabilitation”.  In the 1996 Budapest Document, Ministers tasked the FSC with: “tackling regional security problems (including crises) flexibly in ways appropriate to each case”.  So not only did our Ministers mandate the Forum to manage risk-reduction, they also saw value in our politico-military dialogue continuing even in times of crisis.   

    The OSCE has an extensive acquis and toolkit to do this work.  But it relies on political will to be effective.  Participating States have used the toolkit, including transparency mechanisms, to offer de-escalation.  For example, by Georgia in 2008, by Ukraine – twenty times – in 2014, and again by Ukraine in 2022.  As these examples proved, transparency mechanisms can offer a ladder to defuse a situation or at least an early warning indicator.  But no tool can substitute for the political will required to de-escalate.  Especially if that State has decided to invade, as Russia’s actions have shown so clearly. 

    Madam Chair, the Code of Conduct commits us to act in solidarity if OSCE norms and commitments are violated.  As catalogued by the OSCE Moscow Mechanisms, ODIHR and UN, there is irrefutable independent evidence of Russia violating international law.  As per the Code, such breaches are a “direct and legitimate” concern for us all.  

    That is why our weekly statements will continue reiterating our support for Ukraine and calling for Russia to end its war and return to abiding by the UN Charter and the Helsinki Final Act.  That is why we welcome Estonia’s three Security Dialogue topics on the Code of Conduct; Women, Peace & Security; and protection of children in armed conflicts, keeping a focus on Russia’s invasion.  That is also why we will keep on using this Forum and its tools to execute our mandate, including on risk-reduction and voluntary briefs on military exercises. 

    Madam Chair, our Ministers mandated the Forum to hold a weekly politico-military dialogue in order to execute our vital mandate.  We can only do that if we respect the Forum and meet weekly to fulfil, not to frustrate, its work. 

    I wish to conclude by welcoming Finland to the FSC Troika, and to thank Denmark for their work as they leave the Troika.  And most importantly, I wish you, Madam Chair, and your able teams here in Vienna and in Tallinn the best of luck this Trimester.  You can count on the support of the UK delegation.

    Updates to this page

    Published 14 May 2025

    Invasion of Ukraine

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The 7th Central Asian Conference on Climate Change was held in Ashgabat

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    ALMATY, May 14 (Xinhua) — The 7th Central Asian Conference on Climate Change was held in Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan, from Tuesday to Wednesday. The main theme of the event was stated as “Achieving the global goal of climate finance through regional and national actions in Central Asia,” the International Information Center of Turkmenistan reported on Wednesday.

    The conference was organized by the Regional Environmental Center for Central Asia and the Government of Turkmenistan, and was held with the support of the World Bank and the German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ).

    Over the course of two days, representatives of countries in the region and international organizations discussed common approaches to combating climate challenges.

    The opening ceremony featured welcoming speeches from the Minister of Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan, as well as high-ranking representatives of the World Bank, GIZ, the EU and the UN Development Programme. During a special session, representatives of the World Bank, the UK, the EU and Italy outlined their approaches and spoke about climate finance opportunities for Central Asian countries. Particular attention was paid to mechanisms for the effective use of funds raised.

    The key topics of the second day of the event were transboundary landscape restoration and combating land degradation.

    Conference participants confirmed their understanding of common climate challenges and the readiness of Central Asian countries to work together, naming the transition from discussions to practical actions as a priority goal and promising to continue work on forming a regional climate agenda and preparing for future summits. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch, Merkley, Sanders, Dingell Team Up to Introduce Bill to Lower Prescription Drug Prices for All Americans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) today joined Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), and U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) in introducing the End Price Gouging for Medications Act.
    The bicameral bill would lower prescription drug costs for all Americans and end pharmaceutical price gouging by requiring drug companies to offer medications in the United States at no more than the lowest price per drug in twelve other similarly developed countries—Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.
    “No one should ever be forced to choose between paying for the prescriptions they need or putting food on the table. It’s unacceptable, and for too many Americans it’s a reality because of Big Pharma’s price gouging,” said Welch. “The End Price Gouging for Medications Act would put an end to this bad practice and help more Vermonters access the medications they need. I’m proud to join Sen. Merkley to introduce this bill and help Vermonters get the care they need.”
    “Americans pay the highest prices in the world for prescription drugs, even though we invest the most in cutting-edge research and development. That is unconscionable,” said Merkley. “In my town halls across every corner of Oregon, I’ve heard time and again from Oregonians about how sky-high prescription drug prices are pushing their budgets to the limit. The End Price Gouging for Medications Act will crack down on Big Pharma’s greed.”
    Merkley continued, “If President Trump is serious about lowering prescription drug costs for families and seniors across America, he should work with Congress to ensure we get the best prices, not the worst.”
    “In the wealthiest nation on earth, no one should have to choose between buying groceries and affording the medications they need to survive,” said Dingell. “There’s no reason we should be spending more on prescriptions than any other country. This legislation will help to bring down the cost of prescription drugs, hold drug companies accountable for their unchecked greed, and provide much-needed relief to American families.”
    On average, Americans spend over $1,400 on prescription drugs every year—the highest per capita drug spending in the world—largely because the pharmaceutical industry is hiking up the cost of drugs to make billions in profits each year. The American people want action, and lowering prescription drug prices to levels obtained in nations similar to the United States has strong bipartisan support. This includes medication such as:
    Ozempic, which costs Americans nearly $13,000 annually to treat type 2 diabetes compared to roughly $820 in Japan; and
    Humira, which costs Americans with Crohn’s disease more than $100,000 per year compared to roughly $3,320 per year in Austria.
    Unlike Trump’s recent executive order (EO) on international reference pricing, which only applies to Medicare and Medicaid, the End Price Gouging for Medications Act goes further by requiring drug companies to offer prescription drugs at the established reference price to all individuals in the U.S. market, regardless of insurance or health care status. That includes individuals utilizing all federal health programs, uninsured individuals, individuals covered under a group health plan, or individuals who have purchased their own health insurance coverage.
    In addition to Welch, Merkley, Sanders, and Dingell, the End Price Gouging for Medications Act is co-sponsored by U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL). The bicameral bill is endorsed by Public Citizen, Center for Health and Democracy, Just Care USA, Center for Medicare Advocacy, and Social Security Works.
    “American consumers pay far too much for drugs, not because it is costly to manufacture them, or even because of the expense of research and development. We pay too much because the U.S. government grants patents and other monopolies to brand-name drug corporations and then does far too little to rein in Big Pharma’s exploitation of those monopolies to price gouge consumers and the government itself. If President Trump were serious about bringing U.S. drug prices down to levels in other countries, he would embrace this legislation and use the bully pulpit to urge legislators to support it instead of retrograde proposals to take away health care from millions of people to give tax cuts to billionaires and corporations. We applaud Senators Merkley, Sanders and Welch for their leadership,” said Peter Maybarduk, Director of Public Citizen’s Access to Medicines Program.
    “There’s no good reason Americans should be forced to pay as much as four times more for our drugs than people in France, Japan and Canada. Senator Merkley, Senator Welch, Ranking Member Sanders, and Representative Dingell’s ‘End Price Gouging for Medications Act’ legislation recognizes that monopoly pricing by drug corporations is killing tens of thousands of Americans each year and driving countless more into medical debt. It rightly calls for fair drug pricing, which is essential to our health and well-being,” said Diane Archer, President of Just Care USA.
    “The reason Americans pay higher prescription drug prices than other countries is because big drug and insurance companies, and their armies of lobbyists, work overtime to ensure their monopolies are protected and their CEOs continue to get massive compensation packages. It is far past time that Congress acts to rein in the out-of-control cost of what Americans have to pay for life-saving medications. The End Price Gouging for Medications Act is an important step,” said Wendell Potter, President of the Center for Health and Democracy.
    Full text of the End Price Gouging for Medications Act can be found by clicking here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why are Turkey and the PKK turning to peace – and can it last?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Pinar Dinc, Associate Professor of Political Science, Department of Political Science and Researcher, Centre for Advanced Middle Eastern Studies, Lund University

    Negotiations to end more than 40 years of conflict between the Turkish state and the Kurdistan Workers’ party (PKK) have taken on a concrete dimension. On May 12, two months after the PKK’s imprisoned leader, Abdullah Öcalan, wrote a letter in which he called on the group to lay down its arms, it has announced it will disband.

    The PKK, which has been fighting for greater Kurdish rights and autonomy, has outlined several conditions it views as essential for it to dissolve. It insists that Öcalan lead and direct the peace process, that the right to democratic politics in Turkey is recognised, and that the group is given solid legal guarantees.

    On the one hand, there seems to be great longing for peace between Turkey and the PKK. This has been evidenced by the positive reactions to the PKK’s statement both nationally and internationally.

    Turkish president, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, said the PKK’s disengagement with terror had opened “the doors of a new era in every area, namely strengthening politics and democratic capacity”.

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

    However, there is also scepticism. Turkey views the peace process very differently from the Kurds, referring to it as part of the government’s “terror-free Turkey” initiative. The Kurdish movement has instead adopted the title of Öcalan’s February letter, “Call for Peace and Democratic Society”.

    Many also see Erdoğan’s willingness to resolve the Kurdish issue as a political maneuver by the ruling Justice and Development party (AKP). Positioning itself as the party that ended decades of “terror” at the hands of the PKK would allow the AKP to consolidate its hold on power.

    But, notwithstanding this, there are clear reasons for both the Turkish state and the PKK to come to the negotiating table now. One of the leading reasons is the changing geopolitical dynamics of the Middle East.

    In late 2024, Bashar al-Assad’s regime was toppled in Syria and the country was subsequently taken over by Islamist militants. Iran’s influence has also been weakened following the collapse of parts of its regional proxy network, notably Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon and, most recently, the Houthis in Yemen.

    Israel, meanwhile, is continuing its war in Gaza. And it has intensified its military operations in Syria, particularly near the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, alongside open expressions of support for Syria’s Druze religous communities.

    At the same time, Donald Trump has returned to the White House and reopened the door to dialogue with Iran over its nuclear programme. The region’s politics are being reshaped, and leaders across the Middle East are repositioning themselves accordingly.

    For the PKK and its broader political base, a peace process with Turkey offers a pathway to equal citizenship, democratic participation and long-term legitimacy for Kurds in the Middle East after nearly a century of struggle.

    This was signalled by the Kurdish National Conference in April 2025. The conference, which was attended by different Kurdish parties and organisations, highlighted the importance of strategic coordination among Kurds in the region.

    For Turkey, peace with the PKK now would further reduce a weakened Iran’s ability to project power westward. Some groups suspected of being affiliated with the PKK, such as the Sinjar Resistance Units in northern Iraq, have been indirectly supported by Iran.

    Turkey’s handling of the PKK conflict and the broader Kurdish issue has also often complicated its engagement with the west. For example, human rights groups have accused Turkey of allowing the Syrian National Army (a coalition of armed groups in northern Syria) to act with impunity against Kurdish civilians in areas outside its control.

    This has created friction in Turkey’s diplomatic outreach to the US and Europe. By addressing the longstanding Kurdish issue, Ankara could lay the groundwork for more stable relations with the west. These relations are particularly important now as Turkey is looking to take an increasingly key role in European security.

    It is serving as a mediator in negotiations to end the Ukraine war. And Erdoğan has even offered to host direct talks between the Ukrainian president, Volodymr Zelensky, and his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, in Istanbul.

    Bumpy road ahead

    The PKK’s dissolution will not guarantee peace in Turkey. The Kurdish people expect equal citizenship and the end the government’s practice of removing elected mayors and replacing them with state-appointed trustees.

    They also demand the release of political prisoners and reforms to Turkey’s anti-terrorism laws, which critics say are frequently used to suppress dissent. These issues will be discussed in parliament over the coming days, with talks on a new constitution expected to take place in the autumn.

    The negotiations will not be simple. The Kurds have been persistently labelled as rebels, traitors and terrorists since the beginning of the Turkish republic in 1923. It will not be easy to change entrenched opinions overnight.

    Özgür Özel, the leader of Turkey’s main opposition Republican People’s party (CHP), has emphasised the importance of resolving the Kurdish issue peacefully and democratically. But it is not clear whether his views reflect those of his supporter base and Turkish society more broadly.

    Turkey must be further democratised to give the peace process a greater chance of success. The nation’s vibrant civil society currently operates under intense pressure from the state. Giving it more of a voice will help bring Turkey’s deeply divided society together.

    It is always difficult – if not impossible – to make predictions about the future when it comes to Middle Eastern politics. However, a new balance is being established in the Middle East, and in this new balance very different players have to sit at the same table.

    Pinar Dinc is the principal investigator of the ECO-Syria project, which receives funding from the Strategic Research Area: The Middle East in the Contemporary World (MECW) at the Centre for Advanced Middle Eastern Studies, Lund University, Sweden.

    – ref. Why are Turkey and the PKK turning to peace – and can it last? – https://theconversation.com/why-are-turkey-and-the-pkk-turning-to-peace-and-can-it-last-256527

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Post-sepsis syndrome: when the body recovers but the brain doesn’t

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Steven W. Kerrigan, Professor of Precision Therapeutics, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences

    A 3D rendering of the life-threatening condition sepsis Love Employee/Shutterstock

    Sepsis is a life-threatening condition triggered by the body’s extreme response to infection. It causes widespread inflammation, which can lead to tissue damage, organ failure and death.

    Thanks to modern medicine, survival rates have improved dramatically. But for many who survive, the battle isn’t over when they leave hospital. Instead, they enter a new and often overlooked phase of recovery marked by lingering, life-altering effects.

    Post-sepsis syndrome (PSS) affects up to half of all sepsis survivors and can persist for months or even years. It’s a complex mix of physical, cognitive and psychological symptoms. People may seem physically recovered yet struggle with overwhelming fatigue, chronic pain, muscle weakness and disrupted sleep.

    The most profound impacts, however, often show up in the brain. Many sepsis survivors experience cognitive problems that mirror those seen in traumatic brain injury or early dementia. These can include memory lapses, difficulty concentrating, slower thinking and impaired decision-making.

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

    For some, these challenges are manageable. For others, they’re severe enough to interfere with work, education or independent living.

    One major culprit appears to be the body’s own inflammatory response. During sepsis, the immune system floods the body with inflammatory molecules – a so-called “cytokine storm”. This can damage the blood-brain barrier, allowing harmful substances and immune cells into the brain. The resulting neuroinflammation and oxygen deprivation can injure brain cells and disrupt normal function.

    Hidden psychological toll

    Anyone who survives sepsis can develop PSS, but some are more vulnerable than others. Risk factors include: older age, which increases the likelihood of cognitive decline; long ICU stays or the use of a ventilator, which can contribute to physical and mental complications; pre-existing mental health or cognitive conditions; and more severe inflammatory responses during sepsis, which are linked to lasting damage.

    Children are also at risk, as they may experience developmental or emotional challenges that affect their learning and social development for years.

    Many sepsis survivors go on to experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety or depression. These issues can be triggered by the trauma of a near-death experience, prolonged sedation, invasive treatments, or time spent in intensive care units (ICUs) – often while cut off from family and friends.

    In fact, “ICU delirium”, which affects up to 80% of patients on ventilators, has been strongly associated with long-term cognitive and psychological impairment. Sepsis survivors who experience this often recall vivid, terrifying hallucinations during their ICU stay. These memories can haunt them more than the physical illness itself.

    The recovery gap

    One of the biggest challenges for sepsis survivors is the lack of follow-up care. Unlike heart attack or stroke recovery, which typically involves coordinated rehabilitation, post-sepsis care is often fragmented. Patients can be discharged without a recovery plan and left to navigate a confusing and lonely road back to health.

    What’s needed are multidisciplinary post-sepsis clinics, where patients can access neurologists, psychologists, rehab specialists and social workers all under one roof. Early support, both psychological and cognitive, can dramatically improve long-term outcomes.

    Sepsis doesn’t just take a toll on survivors – it affects families, communities and healthcare systems. Many survivors cannot return to work, require ongoing care, and face financial hardship. In the US, sepsis costs an estimated US$60 billion annually (£50.8 billion), much of it spent on post-acute care and readmissions.

    A 2016 film inspired by the true story of Tom Ray, who lost his arms, legs and part of his face to sepsis.

    There’s also a growing concern that sepsis may raise the risk of long-term neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. More research is needed, but the links between inflammation, brain damage and cognitive decline are becoming harder to ignore.



    Read more:
    Thirty years on, our research linking viral infections with Alzheimer’s is finally getting the attention it deserves

    Globally, there is progress in helping people survive sepsis. But we must also ensure that sepsis survivors thrive afterwards.

    Here’s what I believe needs to happen now: encourage greater awareness of PSS among clinicians, patients and families; integrate post-sepsis care into chronic disease and rehabilitation programs; and generate more funding to research how and why PSS develops – and how to prevent or treat it.

    People recovering from sepsis often rely heavily on loved ones who need better support themselves. Survivors also need clearer, kinder help to get back to work and school, or just back to the everyday routines that once felt normal.

    Surviving sepsis is a triumph of modern medicine – but what comes after is still a neglected frontier. For too many, life after sepsis means battling invisible wounds that affect the brain, body and soul. Recognising, researching and responding to PSS isn’t just a clinical need – it’s a moral obligation. Survivors deserve more than survival. They deserve a chance to truly recover.

    Steven W. Kerrigan receives funding from Research Ireland, Health Research Board of Ireland, Irish Research Council and Enterprise Ireland. The author wishes to thank Liam Casey, a sepsis survivor, for his contribution to this article and for sharing his lived experience of PSS.

    – ref. Post-sepsis syndrome: when the body recovers but the brain doesn’t – https://theconversation.com/post-sepsis-syndrome-when-the-body-recovers-but-the-brain-doesnt-256139

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister of Finance to Co-Host G7 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors’ Meeting in Banff

    Source: Government of Canada News

    May 14, 2025

    As part of Canada’s G7 Presidency, the Minister of Finance and National Revenue, the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, and Bank of Canada Governor Tiff Macklem, will co-host the G7 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors’ Meeting in Banff, Alberta, from May 20 to 22. They will be joined by Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors from the G7 countries (France, Germany, Italy, Japan, United Kingdom, United States) and the European Union.

    G7 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors will be joined by the heads of the International Monetary Fund, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, the World Bank and the Financial Stability Board. The Ukraine Finance Minister and the President of the Financial Action Task Force will join for parts of the meeting. Ministers and Governors will discuss and share views on current global economic and financial challenges, with a focus on how the G7 can work together on issues.   

    The details of the media events and core programming are described below.

    Please note that media events are restricted to accredited media, and the accreditation portal is now closed. Additional logistical details for each media event will be provided directly to accredited media, closer to the events. Please contact mediag7@fin.gc.ca with any questions.   

    Core Program (All Times Local, MT)

    Tuesday, May 20

    4:00 p.m.

    The Minister and the Ukraine Minister of Finance, Sergii Marchenko, will answer questions from the media.

    Wednesday, May 21

    8:15 a.m. – 8:45 a.m.

    The Minister will join fellow G7 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors for a group photograph and hold a welcoming ceremony.

    Open to media. Photo opportunity only.

    9:00 a.m. – 9:15 a.m.

    The Minister and Governor will officially open the G7 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors’ Meeting.

    Pooled B-roll media opportunity.

    9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

    The Minister and Governor will co-chair sessions on the global economy, economic resilience and security, and the situation in Ukraine, among others.

    Closed to media.

    Thursday, May 22

    8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

    The Minister and Governor will co-chair sessions on financial crime and artificial intelligence, among others.

    Closed to media.

    12:30 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

    The Minister and Governor will hold a joint press conference to close the G7 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors’ Meeting.

    Open to media. A media availability will follow. Watch live on X at https://x.com/G7 or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/G7.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Liz Saville Roberts MP: ‘Starmer’s PMQs outburst shows he knows I’m right’

    Source: Party of Wales

    ‘The only principle the PM defends is whichever he last heard in a focus group’ – Plaid Cymru

    Plaid Cymru Westminster Leader Liz Saville Roberts MP today challenged Prime Minister Keir Starmer over his shifting stance on migration, accusing him of abandoning principles for political convenience.

     

    Keir Starmer responded by attacking Ms Saville Roberts for “talking rubbish”. The Plaid Cymru MP said the Prime Minister’s response showed she had “struck a nerve”, and that the faces of Labour MPs in the chamber suggested that “plenty of them know [she] was right”.

     

    Liz Saville Roberts MP:

    “This Prime Minister once spoke of compassion and dignity for migrants, and defending free movement. Now he talks of ‘islands of strangers’ and ‘taking back control’.

    “Somebody here has to call this out, Mr Speaker. It seems the only principle he consistently defends is whichever he last heard in a focus group.

    “So I ask him: is there any belief he holds which survives a week in Downing Street?”

     

    Keir Starmer responded:

    “Yes – the belief that she talks rubbish. Mr Speaker, I want to lead a country where we pull together and walk into the future as neighbours and as communities, not as strangers. The loss of control of migration by the last government put all that at risk – that’s why we’re fixing the system based on principles of control, selection and fairness.”

     

    Speaking after the session, Liz Saville Roberts MP added:

    “The Prime Minister’s outburst showed that my question struck a nerve. The expressions on the faces of many Labour MPs told their own story – plenty of them know I was right. If his convictions change with the political weather, it’s no surprise that support for Labour in Wales, as across Britain, is falling through the floor.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • India’s Operation Sindoor draws global support as new front against cross-border terrorism

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In the wake of the tragic terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 innocent civilians, India has mounted a decisive and strategic response aimed at dismantling cross-border terrorism. The attack, which drew widespread condemnation and grief across the country, prompted immediate and firm action by the Government of India, with the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) approving a range of diplomatic and military measures targeting Pakistan’s continued support for terrorism.
     
    Among the key diplomatic actions taken, India placed the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960 in abeyance until Pakistan verifiably ceases its support for cross-border terror activities. The Integrated Check Post at Attari was closed, and Pakistani nationals were barred from entering India under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme. Defence, Naval, and Air Advisors posted at the Pakistani High Commission in New Delhi were declared persona non grata, while the strength of both High Commissions was halved from 55 to 30 personnel.
     
    As part of a precise military strategy, India launched “Operation Sindoor,” a calibrated campaign designed to neutralize key terror camps across the border. Based on multi-agency intelligence, nine significant terror infrastructure sites, including those in Bahawalpur and Muridke, were identified and targeted through coordinated air and ground strikes. The operation was executed with high operational ethics, focusing exclusively on terrorist camps while taking all precautions to prevent civilian casualties.
     
    Indian strikes successfully eliminated more than 100 terrorists and destroyed 11 air bases within Pakistan. Among those neutralized were high-value individuals linked to the 1999 IC-814 hijacking and the 2019 Pulwama terror attack, including Yusuf Azhar, Abdul Malik Rauf, and Mudassir Ahmad.
     
    The strikes marked a shift in India’s strategy by targeting deep into Pakistani territory, including critical radar installations in Lahore and Gurjanwala. Additionally, coordinated missile attacks were carried out on terror hubs in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), including Muzaffarabad and Kotli. Military bases housing Pakistan’s F-16 and JF-17 fighter jets at Sargodha and Bholari were hit, leading to the destruction of nearly 20 percent of Pakistan’s air force infrastructure.
     
    India’s retaliatory operations were launched in response to not only the Pahalgam attack but also subsequent Pakistani provocations, including drone and missile attacks on Indian civilian and religious areas on the nights of May 7, 8, and 9. Indian forces successfully intercepted and neutralized these threats, reinforcing the country’s operational readiness and commitment to defending its sovereignty.
     
    In a televised address on May 12, Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored the resolve behind Operation Sindoor, calling it not just a military campaign but a reflection of the collective sentiment of the Indian people. He reiterated that terrorism would be met with decisive force, rejecting any possibility of dialogue or trade with Pakistan until terrorism is addressed. He stated unequivocally that water and blood cannot flow together and emphasized that the only issue India is willing to discuss is the return of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
     
    As Pakistani forces continued mortar shelling across the Line of Control (LoC), India responded forcefully, targeting terrorist bunkers and Pakistani army positions. Unable to withstand the Indian response, Pakistan sought a ceasefire, with its Director General of Military Operations contacting his Indian counterpart. A ceasefire was declared on May 10, but Pakistan violated it soon after, sending drones into Indian territory, which were swiftly countered by Indian forces.
     
    Despite the ceasefire at the borders, Operation Sindoor remains ongoing. The Indian Armed Forces remain on high alert to counter any future threats, with field commanders granted operational freedom to respond to provocations.
     
    India’s robust and restrained response has garnered wide support from the international community. World powers have condemned the Pahalgam attack and endorsed India’s right to self-defense. The United Kingdom, Russia, Israel, the United States, France, Japan, and key Gulf countries including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar expressed solidarity with India. European Union member states, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Panama, and even Palestine joined the chorus of condemnation.
     
    Each expressed their support for India’s fight against terrorism, with many recognizing Operation Sindoor as a legitimate and proportionate response. Iran’s President personally conveyed condolences to Prime Minister Modi, and global leaders have emphasized the need for stronger international cooperation to combat terrorism.

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Plymouth’s outdoor pools get set for summer

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Summer’s finally here and Mount Wise Swimming Pools and Tinside Lido are looking forward to welcoming their first visitors of the season on Saturday 24 May.

    Both pools will be open every day from midday to 6pm during term time and 10am to 6pm on Saturdays, Sundays and during school holidays.

    Councillor Sue Dann, Cabinet Member with responsibility for sport and leisure, said: “With the lovely weather we’re now seeing we know everyone will be really excited to take a dip and enjoy the sunshine with their friends and family.

    “We’re so lucky to have these amazing outdoor pools on our doorsteps, especially in such beautiful waterfront settings and there are loads of fun events and activities planned for both sites.

    “I’m really pleased we’ve been able to keep Mount Wise free of charge again to help families make the most of the summer months. We’re also incredibly excited to see improvements at Tinside nearing completion and look forward to unveiling its transformation very soon.”

    Mount Wise, which features a 25-metre main pool, fun pool and children’s paddling pool and offers fantastic views across the River Tamar, will remain free of charge.

    Entry to the Grade II listed Tinside lido on Plymouth Hoe, overlooking Plymouth’s spectacular seafront, costs £6.30 for Plymouth residents and £10 for non-residents, with concessionary rates for children, people aged 67 and over, anyone in receipt of benefits, NHS blue light staff and armed forces and ex-armed forces personnel. Under-fives go free.

    Season tickets can also be bought for Tinside on the Plymouth Active website, at the Plymouth Life Centre or at Plympton Pool. (Concessionary season tickets must be bought in person.)

    Mount Wise will be hosting free youth night swims from 6pm to 7.30pm every Thursday and Tinside will also be hosting youth nights and Swim Safe sessions over the summer.

    Special ‘early bird’ swims are also making a welcome return at Mount Wise on Wednesday mornings from 6.30am to 8.30am (£4 entry) and at Tinside on Wednesday and Friday mornings from 6.30am to 9am (£6.30 for adults and £5 for children).

    And if that’s not early enough for you, why not celebrate the longest day of the year with a refreshing sunrise dip at Tinside’s Summer Solstice Swim at 4.45am on Saturday 21 June?

    Whether you take to the water or just want to soak up the magical atmosphere you can also start your day with a tasty BBQ breakfast, served up from 7pm. Doors open at 4.30am and entry costs £6.30. Find out more and book your tickets here.

    Visitors to Tinside are reminded that refurbishment works to create the exciting new multi-purpose youth, community and events space, with panoramic views of the National Marine Park, are still ongoing.

    The £4.5 million refurbishment is designed to open up new spaces and is being funded through the Plymouth Sound National Marine Park by grants from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Youth Investment Fund, UK Government and Plymouth City Council.

    The new ‘coffee pod’ is programmed to open in mid-June, serving ice cream, cakes, paninis, snacks and hot and cold drinks and it is hoped the new sun terrace and seating area will be ready in time for the Summer Solstice Swim.

    Remaining works are expected to be complete by the end of June but full details will be confirmed nearer the time.

    For more information about Mount Wise and Tinside pools visit the Plymouth Active website. All sessions can be booked up to seven days in advance.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Fear and Fascination: a Gothic Exhibition A new exhibition at the University of Aberdeen invites visitors to meet ghosts, vampires and the supernatural as they step into a world of Gothic terror and explore how Gothic literature used fear to both terrify and excite readers.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    Frankenstein artworkA new exhibition at the University of Aberdeen invites visitors to meet ghosts, vampires and the supernatural as they step into a world of Gothic terror and explore how Gothic literature used fear to both terrify and excite readers.
    Opening in the Sir Duncan Rice Library on May 19, 2025, the exhibition explores why we are so intrigued and excited by things that scare us. Using the rich collection of eighteenth and nineteenth century Gothic literature cared for by University Collections, the exhibition highlights how the genre explores transgressive themes through their tales of monsters and villains.
    Visitors will see early editions of key Gothic novels including Castle of Otranto (first published 1764), The Picture of Dorian Gray (1890), and M. R. James’s Ghost Stories of an Antiquary (1904). These texts, and many more on display, are used to explore how fields such as queer theory and Postcolonial readings have brought new meanings to these stories that have fascinated audiences since their publication.
    An immersive space highlights the tropes used by authors to evoke a sense of fear in readers and will allow those who visit to get creative and explore the darker side of their imaginations, creating Gothic plots and stories. A cosy Victorian reading provides space to settle down and enjoy a good book, while Old Aberdeen Library will also have a selection of Gothic writing available to check out and read at home.
    Curator Christina Mackenzie said: “Gothic literature has an enduring appeal as shown by the popularity of many of these texts centuries after they were written.
    “This has been such a fun and revealing exhibition to work on and we’ve really tried to explore that throughout – the way these texts tell scary stories on the surface, but have been reinterpreted over time to question the monstrosity of the ‘monsters’.”
    ‘Fear & Fascination’ will be accompanied by a rich events programme, kicking off with Sophie Coulombeau’s talk Brothers & Lovers: Frances Burney and the Gothicon 29 May.
    ‘Fear and Fascination: A Gothic Exhibition’ will be open in the Sir Duncan Rice Library Gallery, Bedford Road, Aberdeen AB24 3AA, 11am-7pm Mon-Fri, 1pm-4pm Sat & Sun, from 19 May to 7 December 2025.
    Enquiries: uoacollections@abdn.ac.uk
    See https://www.abdn.ac.uk/collections/whats-on/ for further details of the exhibition and events programme.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s press encounter following meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    Chancellor Merz, thank you for your warm welcome.

    And I look forward to working closely with you and your new Government to build a Germany-UN partnership even stronger in the future, than in the present, knowing that in the present it is already extremely strong.

    Germany is a pillar of multilateralism …

    A strong and generous supporter of the United Nations…

    A voice of peace and a champion of human rights…

    A committed leader in the fight against climate change…

    And an essential partner for peacekeeping, peacebuilding and humanitarian aid — demonstrated not least by your hosting of the UN Peacekeeping Ministerial meeting that was an exceptional success.

    Germany is a leader in the humanitarian response in Lebanon and Syria, and strongly engaged on Sudan, including most recently as co-host of the recent conference in London.

    German diplomacy is particularly active in addressing the two biggest challenges that affect peace in Europe and the Middle East: the situations in Ukraine and Gaza.

    I reiterate my appeal for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in Ukraine to pave the way for a just peace. A peace based on the UN Charter and international law, namely respecting the territorial integrity of Ukraine.

    In relation to Gaza, I reiterate my call for an immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, unimpeded humanitarian access, and an immediate cessation of hostilities allowing for an irreversible path towards a Two-State solution.

    Beyond peace efforts, I see a number of other key areas where German leadership can make — and is making — a positive difference in the world.

    In the global battle against climate change as we work towards maximum ambition and climate justice at COP30 in Brazil…

    And at the upcoming Financing for Development Conference in Sevilla, where we will push namely for debt relief and reforming the global financial architecture to support developing countries in the follow up of the Pact for the Future.

    And most of all, Germany’s leadership and voice are essential in a world of growing geopolitical divides and mistrust.
     
    This is an important year for multilateralism — the 80th anniversary of the United Nations.

    And we count on Germany to continue standing up for the solidarity and solutions our world needs now.

    Danke schön

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: CORRECTION: Mauritania Moves to Private Power Model, Set to Receive Independent Power Producer (IPP) Bids Within Weeks

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

    PARIS, France, May 14, 2025/APO Group/ —

    Mauritania is accelerating its shift toward a fully privatized power generation model, with bids due in the next two to three weeks for a new independent power plant tied to the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) gas project. The country’s Minister of Petroleum and Energy, Mohamed Ould Khaled, made the announcement at the Invest in African Energy 2025 Forum in Paris on Tuesday.

    “All new power generation projects in Mauritania will be private. State-owned companies will no longer be involved in power generation,” said the Minister. He added that two projects currently being developed as IPPs will be fueled by domestic gas and will contribute a combined 550 MW to the national grid over the next couple of years.

    The power sector reform is part of a wider transformation aimed at enabling Mauritania to harness its significant gas and renewable energy resources to power industrialization, expand electricity access and drive inclusive growth.

    “We want to develop large-scale natural gas and renewable energy resources. We want to expand affordable, clean power access to our people and industries and power inclusive economic growth, especially to unleash our mining potential.” 

    Mauritania currently has 57% energy access and aims to achieve full national coverage by 2030, according to the Minister. Gas from the GTA project – shared with Senegal – will play a central role in this transition, supplying enough fuel for a 250 MW combined-cycle power plant in each country during the project’s first phase, he said.

    The Minister described Mauritania as uniquely positioned for energy leadership on the continent and beyond, citing its combination of gas, solar, wind and strategic proximity to Europe. He also highlighted Mauritania’s position as the African leader in green hydrogen project development, backed by newly modernized regulatory frameworks.

    “Mauritania holds the largest pipeline of green hydrogen projects in Africa, which are designed not only to export molecules, but to catalyze industrialization in Mauritania and decarbonize hard-to-abate sectors. We have the potential to produce 12 million tons of green hydrogen production per year, with wind speeds of 10 meters per second and amazing solar.”

    “To support this transformation, we have completely modernized our framework,” the Minister continued. “We have opened up the electricity sector to private investments, introduced a new local content policy, and implemented new PPP and investment codes. Additionally, we have launched Africa’s first green hydrogen code, which provides clarity and long-term stability for investors.”

    Looking ahead, Mauritania’s integrated energy vision includes the expanded development of the BirAllah gas field – another major deepwater discovery – along with subsequent phases of the GTA project to reach 10 million tons of LNG per year, cross-border electricity trade with neighboring countries and further development of its mining sector.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Minister Niamh Smyth’s Call to Action on New Charter for Digital Inclusion

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

    14th May 2025

    Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation, Niamh Smyth, today announced a major step forward in Ireland’s journey toward a more inclusive digital society with a call to action on the forthcoming Charter for Digital Inclusion.

    The Charter is a key deliverable under “Digital for Good: Ireland’s Digital Inclusion Roadmap”, published in August 2023, which forms part of the Government’s National Digital Strategy. It aims to ensure that no one is left behind as digital technologies become increasingly central to how we live, work, and connect.

    “Digital technology is transforming every aspect of our lives—but not everyone has equal access to its benefits,” said Minister 

    “This Charter is a call to action for businesses and organisations across Ireland to embed digital inclusion into their everyday operations. By signing the Charter, organisations commit to impactful actions to ensure that digital opportunities are accessible to all.”

    The Charter will outline a set of core commitments focused on accessibility, equity, affordability, and the development of digital skills. It will serve as a framework for collaboration between the public sector, large enterprises, SMEs, community organisations and citizens.

    Minister Smyth emphasised the importance of partnership, particularly the role of larger businesses in supporting SMEs to adopt and benefit from digital technologies:

    “By working together—big and small businesses, public bodies and communities—we can create a supportive ecosystem that benefits everyone. When large companies help SMEs go digital, the entire economy gains.”

    The Minister highlighted successful examples already underway, including:

    • Google’s 500 AI scholarships for local communities in 2024, aimed at boosting digital and AI skills.
    • Enterprise Nation and Vodafone Ireland’s ‘Tech Hub’ initiative, which helps Irish SMEs understand and adopt AI tools.

    Minister Smyth added:

    “These are the kinds of impactful actions we want to encourage through the Charter.” 

    To support the initiative, the Department will launch a dedicated webpage outlining the Charter’s principles and showcasing real-world examples of digital inclusion in action. This platform will serve as a hub for inspiration, collaboration, and progress tracking.

    “This isn’t just a government initiative—today is a call to action. I invite businesses, public bodies, and community leaders to sign the Charter and join us in building a more digitally inclusive Ireland.”

    Notes for Editors

    What is a Charter for Digital Inclusion:

    Digital for Good: Ireland’s Digital Inclusion Roadmap was published in August 2023 and reflects the commitment in Harnessing Digital to ensure the Government better serves people who are not able to engage online and promotes the United Nations principle of “Leave No One Behind”.

    A Charter for Digital Inclusion aims to support public and private organisations to join efforts in ensuring equitable access to the use of digital technologies, services, and associated opportunities for everyone. The Charter is a set of commitments to which business and other organisations can sign up to maximise their efforts in contributing to bridging the digital gap by promoting basic digital skills, building awareness and helping people get online.

    In line with Ireland’s Digital Inclusion Roadmap which identifies access, affordability and ability as key determinants for digital inclusion, digital exclusion encompasses not only the lack of access to technologies and services but also the absence of necessary digital skills and literacy to fully benefit from them. This digital gap can hinder individuals and organisations from fully participating in the digital economy and society.

    Addressing it involves strong commitments in the following areas:

    • Improving Access: Ensuring that everyone has access to affordable and reliable internet and digital equipment. 
    • Enhancing Digital Literacy: Providing education and training to develop essential digital skills.
    • Policy and Advocacy: Encouraging policies that promote digital inclusion.

     We will promote joint action in tackling these areas to work towards a more inclusive digital future where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment will invite public bodies, businesses, and community organisations to endorse this Charter, adopt its principles, and join in building a more inclusive digital future for all.

    Charter for Digital Inclusion Principles:

    Our commitments to digital inclusion are guided by the following core principles: 

    • Equity: Ensuring no one is left behind in the digital age. 
    • Accessibility: Designing digital services that are usable by all, including people with disabilities or limited digital skills. 
    • Affordability: Supporting initiatives that make devices and internet access affordable for underserved populations. 
    • Digital Skills for Life: Promoting lifelong learning and digital literacy at all levels. 
    • Trust and Safety: Upholding the highest standards in cybersecurity, privacy, and ethical data use. 
    • Innovation through Collaboration: Encouraging partnership across sectors to drive local and national solutions. 
    • Evidence-Led Action: Using data and research to guide, measure, and improve our efforts.

    Commitments for Digital Inclusion:

    Businesses and organisations can choose the commitments that best align with their goals. 

    The Charter asks businesses and organisations to take action by selecting from the list of commitments below.  

    1. We will integrate the digital inclusion principles into our everyday operations and recognise the value of digital tools in supporting wellbeing, access to services, and economic empowerment.
    2. We commit to providing all staff with the opportunity to develop essential digital skills and actively encourage participation in this learning.
    3. We commit to making our website easy to use, accessible to all, and designed to support everyone—regardless of ability or experience—in getting online, accessing services, building digital confidence, and embracing digital tools.
    4. We will support digital inclusion initiatives, embracing the United Nations principle of “Leave No One Behind”.
    5. We will seek to build local and national partnerships with other organisations, sharing ideas and coordinating efforts to achieve a greater impact collectively.  
    6. We will support sustainability by encouraging the donation of digital equipment to organisations/communities in need. 

    ENDS

    Back to Department News

    Back to Top

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Foot and Mouth disease controls eased for Germany

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Foot and Mouth disease controls eased for Germany

    Personal imports for travellers from the EU remain banned

    Following rigorous technical assessment, Great Britain has officially recognised Germany as Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) free without vaccination as of 14 May 2025.  

    As a result, restrictions previously applied to imports of affected commodities from the containment zone in Germany have now been lifted. This means that exports of FMD-susceptible animals, such as cattle, pigs, sheep, deer and buffaloes, and their products, such as meat and dairy, can resume from the containment zone, provided that all other import conditions are met. This decision follows rigorous technical assessment of the measures applied in Germany and the current disease situation. If the situation changes, we will not hesitate to take necessary action in response to the FMD outbreaks in the European Union to protect our domestic biosecurity.

    Personal import restrictions remain in place that prevent travellers from bringing cattle, sheep, goat, and pig meat, as well as dairy products, from EU countries into Great Britain for personal use, to protect the health of British livestock, the security of farmers, and the UK’s food security. This includes bringing items like sandwiches, cheese, cured meats, raw meats or milk into Great Britain – regardless of whether it is packed or packaged or whether it has been bought at duty free.   

    FMD poses no risk to human or food safety, but is a highly contagious viral disease of cattle, sheep, pigs and other cloven-hoofed animals. Livestock keepers should therefore be absolutely rigorous about their biosecurity.

    FMD is a notifiable disease and must be reported. If you suspect foot and mouth disease in your animals, you must report it immediately by calling:  

    • 03000 200 301 in England   
    • 0300 303 8268 in Wales   
    • your local Field Services Office in Scotland

    Updates to this page

    Published 14 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Secures Historic $1.2 Trillion Economic Commitment in Qatar

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    MAKING AMERICAN MANUFACTURING AND INNOVATION GREAT AGAIN: Today in Qatar, President Donald J. Trump signed an agreement with Qatar to generate an economic exchange worth at least $1.2 trillion. President Trump also announced economic deals totaling more than $243.5 billion between the United States and Qatar, including an historic sale of Boeing aircraft and GE Aerospace engines to Qatar Airways.   
    The landmark deals celebrated today will drive innovation and prosperity for generations, bolster American manufacturing and technological leadership, and put America on the path to a new Golden Age.
    Since President Trump took office, his commitment to American manufacturing and innovation has attracted trillions of dollars in investments and global commercial deals. Allies like Qatar are partnering in the United States’ success. 
    The following represent just a few of the many groundbreaking deals secured in Qatar:
    Boeing and GE Aerospace secured a landmark order from Qatar Airways, a $96 billion agreement to acquire up to 210 American-made Boeing 787 Dreamliner and 777X aircraft powered by GE Aerospace engines. This is Boeing’s largest-ever widebody order and largest-ever 787 order. This historic agreement will support 154,000 U.S. jobs annually, totaling over 1 million jobs in the United States during the course of production and delivery of this deal.
    McDermott has a strong partnership with Qatar Energy in advancing critical energy infrastructure, with seven active projects worth $8.5 billion. As the sole provider of offshore components for Qatar’s major LNG expansion, McDermott’s work directly supports thousands of U.S. energy sector jobs.
    Parsons has successfully won 30 projects worth up to $97 billion. These high-value engagements have fueled significant company growth, supporting thousands of jobs across the United States and reinforcing American leadership in cutting-edge engineering and innovation.
    Quantinuum finalized a Joint Venture Agreement with Al Rabban Capital, a prominent Qatari company, to invest up to $1 billion in state-of-the-art quantum technologies and workforce development in the United States, supporting U.S. jobs and leadership in this critical emerging technology.  

    Today’s signings mark President Trump’s intent to accelerate Qatar’s defense investment in the U.S.-Qatar security  partnership—enhancing regional deterrence and benefitting the U.S. industrial base.
    The defense deals secured today lock in Qatar’s procurement of state-of-the-art military equipment from two leading U.S. defense companies.
    Raytheon, an RTX business, secured a $1 billion agreement for Qatar’s acquisition of counter-drone capabilities, signed by the U.S. and Qatari governments. This deal establishes Qatar as the first international customer for Raytheon’s Fixed Site – Low, Slow, Small Unmanned Aerial System Integrated Defeat System (FS-LIDS) designed to counter unmanned aircraft. The deal directly supports high-skilled manufacturing and engineering jobs in the United States and reinforces America’s leadership in innovative defense technologies.
    General Atomics secured a nearly $2 billion agreement for Qatar’s acquisition of the MQ-9B remotely piloted aircraft system, signed by the U.S. and Qatari governments. This deal will strengthen the U.S.-Qatar bilateral relationship and provide the Qatari Armed Forces with the most advanced multi-mission remotely piloted aircraft in the world, powered by U.S. products made in America.
    The United States and Qatar also signed a statement of intent to further strengthen our security partnership, outlining over $38 billion in potential investments including support for burden-sharing at Al Udeid Air Base and future defense capabilities related to air defense and maritime security.

    These new agreements and instruments aim to drive the growth of the U.S.-Qatar bilateral commercial relationship, create thousands of well-paying jobs, and open new trade and investment opportunities for both countries over the coming decade and beyond.
     CATALYZING PROSPERITY THROUGH GREATER TRADE AND INVESTMENT: The United States and Qatar have a long history of trade and a strong commercial relationship, including significant long-term aviation, critical infrastructure, information technology, and consulting deals. 
    Qatar’s strategic goals outlined in Qatar National Vision 2030 create opportunities for U.S. businesses in multiple sectors.
    The United States had a $2 billion trade surplus with Qatar in 2024 and has had a positive trade balance with Qatar since 2003.
    In 2024, U.S.-Qatar trade totaled $5.64 billion, with $3.8 billion in U.S. exports and $1.8 billion in Qatari imports.
    Qatar’s greenfield investment in the United States totaled $3.3 billion in 2023, focused on hotels and tourism, information technology, advanced manufacturing, financial services, and oil and gas.

    This visit advances opportunities for U.S. companies to expand long-standing partnerships and for Qatari entities to embrace U.S. technologies, adopt best practices, and finalize new agreements for significant sales and investments.
    Qatar has made significant investments in the United States across hotels and tourism, financial services, technology, healthcare, and energy, with plans to invest even more over the next five years. These investments strengthen the U.S. economy by supporting good-paying jobs for millions of American workers, expanding U.S. exports, and funding research and development. 
    Qatar has the third largest proven reserves of natural gas in the world, and has invested in American energy infrastructure, directly contributing to U.S. energy security and industrial resilience.
    Starting in 2019, QatarEnergy initiated $18 billion in investments in the U.S. energy sector with ExxonMobil’s Golden Pass LNG Terminal ($10 billion) and Chevron Phillips Chemical’s Golden Triangle Polymers Plant ($8 billion), both located on the Texas Gulf Coast.

    Qatar is our 12th largest Foreign Military Sales partner with active cases valued at more than $26 billion.
    Qatar’s expansive investment in and trade with the United States contribute to U.S. and Qatari economic growth and prosperity, and Qatar’s choice of U.S. industry’s best-fit solutions supports the U.S. strategic goal of growing our industrial presence throughout the Gulf and the region as a whole.   
     THE ART OF THE DEAL: President Trump is securing billions in investments to revitalize American manufacturing, delivering on his promise to bring back “Made in America” and usher in a new Golden Age of prosperity.
    Today’s announcement builds on yesterday’s $600 billion investment commitment secured in Saudi Arabia.
    It also follows the announcement of an historic trade agreement with the United Kingdom and a joint agreement with China to reduce reciprocal tariffs. 
    By securing these investments, President Trump is spurring a manufacturing renaissance, driving economic growth, and creating high-paying jobs across the nation.
    Prior to this historic deal, President Trump had already attracted trillions in U.S.-based investments, laying the foundation for an era of unprecedented American prosperity.
    President Trump is building on his record of success with Qatar, exemplified by his leadership in the 2019 GE Aerospace GEnx engine sale to power Qatar Airways’ then-newly acquired Boeing 787-9 aircraft—a monumental purchase in the history of both companies.
    As the dealmaker in chief, President Trump’s latest achievement in Qatar is another win for America.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Secures Historic $1.2 Trillion Economic Commitment in Qatar

    Source: The White House

    MAKING AMERICAN MANUFACTURING AND INNOVATION GREAT AGAIN: Today in Qatar, President Donald J. Trump signed an agreement with Qatar to generate an economic exchange worth at least $1.2 trillion. President Trump also announced economic deals totaling more than $243.5 billion between the United States and Qatar, including an historic sale of Boeing aircraft and GE Aerospace engines to Qatar Airways.   

    • The landmark deals celebrated today will drive innovation and prosperity for generations, bolster American manufacturing and technological leadership, and put America on the path to a new Golden Age.
    • Since President Trump took office, his commitment to American manufacturing and innovation has attracted trillions of dollars in investments and global commercial deals. Allies like Qatar are partnering in the United States’ success. 
    • The following represent just a few of the many groundbreaking deals secured in Qatar:
      • Boeing and GE Aerospace secured a landmark order from Qatar Airways, a $96 billion agreement to acquire up to 210 American-made Boeing 787 Dreamliner and 777X aircraft powered by GE Aerospace engines. This is Boeing’s largest-ever widebody order and largest-ever 787 order. This historic agreement will support 154,000 U.S. jobs annually, totaling over 1 million jobs in the United States during the course of production and delivery of this deal.
      • McDermott has a strong partnership with Qatar Energy in advancing critical energy infrastructure, with seven active projects worth $8.5 billion. As the sole provider of offshore components for Qatar’s major LNG expansion, McDermott’s work directly supports thousands of U.S. energy sector jobs.
      • Parsons has successfully won 30 projects worth up to $97 billion. These high-value engagements have fueled significant company growth, supporting thousands of jobs across the United States and reinforcing American leadership in cutting-edge engineering and innovation.
      • Quantinuum finalized a Joint Venture Agreement with Al Rabban Capital, a prominent Qatari company, to invest up to $1 billion in state-of-the-art quantum technologies and workforce development in the United States, supporting U.S. jobs and leadership in this critical emerging technology.  
    • Today’s signings mark President Trump’s intent to accelerate Qatar’s defense investment in the U.S.-Qatar security  partnership—enhancing regional deterrence and benefitting the U.S. industrial base.
      • The defense deals secured today lock in Qatar’s procurement of state-of-the-art military equipment from two leading U.S. defense companies.
      • Raytheon, an RTX business, secured a $1 billion agreement for Qatar’s acquisition of counter-drone capabilities, signed by the U.S. and Qatari governments. This deal establishes Qatar as the first international customer for Raytheon’s Fixed Site – Low, Slow, Small Unmanned Aerial System Integrated Defeat System (FS-LIDS) designed to counter unmanned aircraft. The deal directly supports high-skilled manufacturing and engineering jobs in the United States and reinforces America’s leadership in innovative defense technologies.
      • General Atomics secured a nearly $2 billion agreement for Qatar’s acquisition of the MQ-9B remotely piloted aircraft system, signed by the U.S. and Qatari governments. This deal will strengthen the U.S.-Qatar bilateral relationship and provide the Qatari Armed Forces with the most advanced multi-mission remotely piloted aircraft in the world, powered by U.S. products made in America.
      • The United States and Qatar also signed a statement of intent to further strengthen our security partnership, outlining over $38 billion in potential investments including support for burden-sharing at Al Udeid Air Base and future defense capabilities related to air defense and maritime security.
    • These new agreements and instruments aim to drive the growth of the U.S.-Qatar bilateral commercial relationship, create thousands of well-paying jobs, and open new trade and investment opportunities for both countries over the coming decade and beyond.

     
    CATALYZING PROSPERITY THROUGH GREATER TRADE AND INVESTMENT: The United States and Qatar have a long history of trade and a strong commercial relationship, including significant long-term aviation, critical infrastructure, information technology, and consulting deals. 

    • Qatar’s strategic goals outlined in Qatar National Vision 2030 create opportunities for U.S. businesses in multiple sectors.
    • The United States had a $2 billion trade surplus with Qatar in 2024 and has had a positive trade balance with Qatar since 2003.
      • In 2024, U.S.-Qatar trade totaled $5.64 billion, with $3.8 billion in U.S. exports and $1.8 billion in Qatari imports.
      • Qatar’s greenfield investment in the United States totaled $3.3 billion in 2023, focused on hotels and tourism, information technology, advanced manufacturing, financial services, and oil and gas.
    • This visit advances opportunities for U.S. companies to expand long-standing partnerships and for Qatari entities to embrace U.S. technologies, adopt best practices, and finalize new agreements for significant sales and investments.
      • Qatar has made significant investments in the United States across hotels and tourism, financial services, technology, healthcare, and energy, with plans to invest even more over the next five years. These investments strengthen the U.S. economy by supporting good-paying jobs for millions of American workers, expanding U.S. exports, and funding research and development. 
      • Qatar has the third largest proven reserves of natural gas in the world, and has invested in American energy infrastructure, directly contributing to U.S. energy security and industrial resilience.
      • Starting in 2019, QatarEnergy initiated $18 billion in investments in the U.S. energy sector with ExxonMobil’s Golden Pass LNG Terminal ($10 billion) and Chevron Phillips Chemical’s Golden Triangle Polymers Plant ($8 billion), both located on the Texas Gulf Coast.
    • Qatar is our 12th largest Foreign Military Sales partner with active cases valued at more than $26 billion.
    • Qatar’s expansive investment in and trade with the United States contribute to U.S. and Qatari economic growth and prosperity, and Qatar’s choice of U.S. industry’s best-fit solutions supports the U.S. strategic goal of growing our industrial presence throughout the Gulf and the region as a whole.   

     
    THE ART OF THE DEAL: President Trump is securing billions in investments to revitalize American manufacturing, delivering on his promise to bring back “Made in America” and usher in a new Golden Age of prosperity.

    • Today’s announcement builds on yesterday’s $600 billion investment commitment secured in Saudi Arabia.
    • It also follows the announcement of an historic trade agreement with the United Kingdom and a joint agreement with China to reduce reciprocal tariffs. 
    • By securing these investments, President Trump is spurring a manufacturing renaissance, driving economic growth, and creating high-paying jobs across the nation.
    • Prior to this historic deal, President Trump had already attracted trillions in U.S.-based investments, laying the foundation for an era of unprecedented American prosperity.
    • President Trump is building on his record of success with Qatar, exemplified by his leadership in the 2019 GE Aerospace GEnx engine sale to power Qatar Airways’ then-newly acquired Boeing 787-9 aircraft—a monumental purchase in the history of both companies.
    • As the dealmaker in chief, President Trump’s latest achievement in Qatar is another win for America.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Dstl’s pivotal role in StormShroud uncrewed aircraft capability

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Dstl’s pivotal role in StormShroud uncrewed aircraft capability

    New autonomous platform set to boost UK defence capability, economic growth and job creation.

    The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) has played a crucial role in developing StormShroud, a new uncrewed aircraft system recently announced by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer during a visit to Leonardo UK’s Luton site.

    StormShroud is the first of a new family of Autonomous Collaborative Platforms (ACP) designed to make RAF combat aircraft more survivable and more lethal in contested battlespaces.

    The system consists of the TEKEVER AR3 uncrewed air platform integrated with Leonardo’s BriteStorm Electronic Warfare payload. It offers increased survivability to RAF jets and crew through disruption and deception of enemy radars.

    Dr Paul Hollinshead, Chief Executive of Dstl, said:

    “This achievement demonstrates how Dstl’s world-class research directly contributes to operational advantage for our Armed Forces.

    “StormShroud represents our commitment to delivering mission-winning science and technology at pace, supporting both mission success and economic growth through close collaboration with industry partners.”

    StormShroud has been a collaborative effort involving the following:

    • Dstl
    • RAF’s Rapid Capabilities Office
    • Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S)
    • UK defence industry partners

    RAF Air Chief Marshal Sir Rich Knighton called the announcement:

    “This is a seminal moment for the RAF to maintain our advantage in Air Combat and national security. Autonomous Collaborative Platforms will revolutionise how we conduct a range of missions, from intelligence gathering to strike and logistical support.”

    Dstl’s contribution

    Dstl has delivered significant impact at all levels of the project through:

    • world-class research, technical expertise and advice on electronic warfare capabilities
    • embedded technical leadership within the RAF Rapid Capabilities Office and Air and Space Warfare Centre
    • operational analysis informing RAF requirements
    • trials event design, participation and analysis

    Creating jobs and boosting the economy

    The StormShroud project is creating significant economic benefits across the UK, which include:

    • supporting over 300 high-skilled jobs in the British defence technology sector
    • creating a supply chain involving more than 45 UK small and medium-sized enterprises
    • generating an estimated £175 million in economic activity over the next 5 years
    • establishing the UK as a global leader in autonomous defence technology, opening export opportunities
    • developing transferable skills and technologies with applications in civilian sectors

    The announcement reinforces defence’s commitment to integrating autonomous systems in future forces, aligning with the Defence Drone Strategy, RAF Autonomous Collaborative Platforms Strategy, and across the Front Line Commands.

    Dstl continues to support StormShroud development and future Air Domain ACP capabilities through various projects that aim to enhance coherence and drive exploitation of technology in this field.

    Find out more about how Dstl delivers mission success through science and technology advantage.

    Updates to this page

    Published 14 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Lord Chancellor and MOJ Permanent Secretary Prison Capacity Press Conference

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Lord Chancellor and MOJ Permanent Secretary Prison Capacity Press Conference

    The Rt Hon Shabana Mahmood MP and Amy Rees CB spoke in a briefing at Downing Street about the extent of the prison capacity crisis and plans to counter it.

    Political content has been removed from this transcript.

    Good afternoon, everyone.  

    We are here today to talk about the situation in our prisons. 

    When I took office, nearly a year ago, I inherited prisons on the brink of collapse. 

    Despite the immediate measures we took to avert disaster, this crisis has not gone away.  

    David Gauke will soon publish his sentencing review.  

    It will set out how we end this cycle of crisis once and for all. 

    But today, I will talk about the situation that we face now… 

    And further measures that we must take to stabilise the prison population. 

    To do so, I would first like to turn to Amy Rees.  

    Until recently, Amy was Chief Executive of His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service – having started out, 24 years ago, as a Prison Officer on the wings. 

    Now the Department’s interim Permanent Secretary, Amy will set out the scale of the challenge we face today.  

    [AMY REES]  

    Thank you, Lord Chancellor.  

    The total prison population is 88,087 – and the adult male estate is operating at approximately 99 percent of its capacity.   

    Every year, on our current trajectory, the prison population rises by 3,000.  

    And we now expect to hit zero capacity – to entirely run out of prison places for adult men – in November of this year.   

    The population has been rising, rapidly, for many years.  

    In 1993, the population was less than half its current level – at around 40,000 prisoners. 

    When I first joined the Service, in 2001, it was 65,000.  

    In recent years, it has accelerated rapidly to its current levels, and is forecast to be more than 100,000 by 2029.  

    The primary cause of this is clear.  

    Sentence lengths have increased considerably.  

    In 2005, the average custodial sentence was 13 months.  

    By 2023, it was 21 months – a 66 percent increase.  

    We now have a larger population of sentenced prisoners in our prisons – serving longer sentences than they used to.  

    While this is the primary cause, it is not the only cause.  

    The number of offenders brought back to prison after being released – known as recall – is a significant, though lesser, contributing factor.  

    In 1993, this ‘recalled’ population in prison was virtually non-existent at just 100 prisoners.  

    By 2018, it was 6,000.  

    And since then, levels have soared – more than doubling to 13,600 in March this year.  

    Until now, successive governments have attempted to manage prison capacity primarily by carrying out early releases. 

    In late 2023, the prison system was running at around 99 percent of its capacity.  

    Faced with the prospect of running out of prison places altogether, the End of Custody Supervised Licence Scheme was introduced in October 2023.  

    This meant eligible prisoners were automatically released up to 18 days before their scheduled released date, later increased to 35 days and then up to 70 days in May 2024. 

    This measure prevented prisons from running out of places entirely, but it only bought the service time.  

    By July last year, prisons were again operating close to maximum capacity.  

    Ministers announced plans for some prisoners serving standard determinate sentences to be released automatically at the 40 percent point of their sentence, rather than 50 percent.  

    A surge of these releases took place over two tranches in the autumn and again prevented prisons from filling up entirely.  

    In parallel, we have brought in other smaller-scale measures to manage capacity.  

    This includes moving some risk-assessed offenders out of prison and onto Home Detention – tagged and curfewed for a longer period. 

    These measures are important, but they do not address the scale of the challenge we face.  

    As I have said, the prison population is rising by around 3,000 a year – the equivalent of two large prisons every single year.  

    Even with these measures in place, we will run out of places in just five months’ time.  

    Let me return to my first slide on the growth of the prison population to explain what that means in practice. 

    The operational reality of running prisons so close to their maximum capacity is that it creates a set of interconnected and escalating problems. 

    Even before you run out entirely, our prisons become more dangerous places.  

    With limited space, it becomes harder to manage prisons, and the challenges of violence and drugs grow.   

    This makes prisons less safe, and it leaves staff with less time to get prisoners to work and education – vital to ensuring that they leave prison less likely to reoffend.  

    We are already reliant on a small number of police cells in some parts of the country, where we hold offenders temporarily. 

    If capacity gets even tighter, as an exceptional measure we would activate ‘Operation Early Dawn’.  

    This means we convene a team at 05:30 am every day to track each individual potentially coming into custody, so that we can make sure there will be a space available for them.  

    Early Dawn was activated between 19 August to 9 September 2024, prior to the implementation of early releases.  

    It was also previously activated in October 2023, March 2024, and May 2024.  

    In recent weeks, we have come close to activating Early Dawn once again.  

    If Operation Early Dawn is unable to manage the flow of prisoners, the situation becomes intolerable.  

    We would, at this stage, see the managed breakdown of the criminal justice system.  

    Police holding cells would be full, and the police would be faced with being unable to make arrests.  

    Courts would need to consider bail for offenders they would normally consider dangerous enough to remand to prison.  

    If the system reaches that point, there would be a clear risk to public safety and the only solution would be rapid emergency releases.  

    This would mean offenders being let out of prison without time for probation officers and other services to put in place release plans designed to protect the public.  

    And even this would only buy us time.  

    The prison population will keep rising.  

    Without a long-term plan, sooner or later we would run out of places once more.   

    That is the situation in the prison service as it stands today.  

    And I’m now going to hand back to the Lord Chancellor to talk about the path forward from here.  

    [LORD CHANCELLOR]  

    This Government will end the cycle of crisis. 

    We will bring order and control back to our prisons.    

    That starts by building more of them.  

    Last December, we published a long-term building strategy, setting out our aim to open up 14,000 prison places by 2031.  

    This is the largest expansion of the prison estate since the Victorians.  

    And we are not wasting time.  

    We have already committed £2.3 billion to prison expansion.   

    And since taking office, we have delivered 2,400 new places.  

    We will now go further.  

    While the spending review is ongoing, I can announce today that the Treasury will fund our prison expansion plans, in full, across the spending review period. 

    This is a total capital investment of £4.7bn. 

    It allows us to start building three new prisons…  

    Including breaking ground on a site near HMP Gartree later this year. 

    This investment will also fund new cells at existing prisons…  

    With new houseblocks and rapid deployment cells opened across the country. 

    This is a record prison expansion. 

    We are building at breakneck pace.  

    But we must be honest.  

    Prison building is necessary… 

    But it is not sufficient.  

    We cannot build our way out of this crisis.  

    Despite record prison building, the population is simply rising too fast. 

    By Spring 2028, even with the funding I have announced today, we will be 9,500 places short.  

    The conclusion is clear:  

    We have to do things differently.  

    In October, I appointed David Gauke to lead an independent review of sentencing.   

    He has been ably supported by a panel that draws together expertise from across the criminal justice system.  

    I cannot and will not get ahead of their recommendations. 

    But let me be clear about the task that they have been set.  

    The sentencing review must ensure there is always space in prison for dangerous offenders.  

    To achieve this, the panel will have to recommend a reduction in the length of some custodial sentences…  

    And an expansion of punishment outside prison, for those offenders who can be managed in the community.  

    At the same time, I have set David a clear condition:  

    We must protect the public in whatever measures we pursue.  

    Too often today, our prisons do the opposite.  

    They create better criminals and not better citizens…  

    With 80% of offenders now reoffenders.  

    Across the world, there are models that we can learn from.  

    David and I both visited Texas earlier this year.  

    There, offenders who comply with a strict regime earn an earlier release… 

    While those who behave badly are locked up for longer.  

    Crime there is now at a 50-year low, reoffending is down, and the prison population is under control.  

    Meanwhile, technology – both existing and emerging – clearly has the potential to transform community punishment.  

    A study published last week shows our radio frequency tagging is cutting reoffending by around 20 percent.  

    And emerging technology presents us with further opportunities.  

    We are entering a world where tech has the potential to impose a digital prison outside of prison, surveilling offenders even more closely than they can be watched in jail.  

    To make our streets safer, we must seize on these opportunities.  

    While the Sentencing Review offers us our path to ending the capacity crisis in our prisons, for good, it will take time to take effect.  

    The impact of sentencing reforms will not be felt before Spring next year.  

    On our current trajectory, hitting zero capacity in November, we simply do not have that time.  

    There will be no return to the releases we saw late last year.  

    But I have always been clear that, if further measures are required, I am willing to take them.  

    Today, I am announcing a measure that will target the recall population, which has more than doubled in seven years. 

    We will bring legislation in the coming weeks that means those serving sentences of between one and four years can only be returned to prison for a fixed, 28-day period.  

    Some offenders will be excluded from this measure…  

    Including any offender who has been recalled for committing a serious further offence.   

    We also exclude those who are subject to higher levels of risk management by multiple agencies, where the police, prisons and probation services work together.  

    This measure builds on previous legislation introduced by the last Government, who mandated 14-day recalls for those serving sentences of under a year.  

    And, crucially, it buys us the time we need to introduce the sentencing reforms that – alongside our record prison building plans – will end the crisis in our prisons for good.  

    The consequences of failing to act are unthinkable, but they must be understood.  

    If our prisons overflow…  

    Courts cancel trials… 

    Police halt their arrests… 

    Crime goes unpunished…  

    And we reach a total breakdown of law and order. 

    I was confronted by that prospect when I took office. 

    I am confronted by it again now. 

    But I will never let it happen.  

    This Government is building new prisons, more than any other in the modern era.  

    But we are also facing into the fact that we cannot just build our way out of this crisis.  

    This Government will do whatever it takes to ensure we never run out of prison places again.  

    Updates to this page

    Published 14 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Historic air display to honour VE Day and local heroes 14 May 2025 Historic air display to honour VE Day and local heroes

    Source: Aisle of Wight

    As the Island marks the 80th anniversary of VE Day, this year’s Isle of Wight Armed Forces Day on Sunday 29 June promises a truly stirring spectacle.

    The organiser has confirmed a very special addition to the commemorations — a breath-taking air display by the renowned Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF).

    In a moving tribute, two iconic aircraft — a Spitfire and a Hurricane — will take to the skies above Ryde in a full display, evoking the courage and sacrifice of those who defended our skies during the Second World War.

    Ian Dore, event organiser, shared the significance of the moment: “Following the tragic loss of Squadron Leader Mark Long, the BBMF were grounded last season. Now, a year on, they are flying once more — and we are honoured to welcome them with not one, but two aircraft.

    “The Spitfire and Hurricane will perform a dynamic display, one chasing the other in a rare and thrilling aerial ballet. It’s a real privilege for the Island.”

    This poignant display is made possible thanks to the generous support of Fishbourne Parish Council.

    Their sponsorship reflects the deep ties between the local community and the Armed Forces. Within the ward stands a war memorial bearing the names of several RAF personnel, including Sgt Edmund Eric Shepperd.

    Sgt Shepperd joined the RAF in 1935 and served with distinction during the Battle of Britain as a Sergeant Pilot with 152 Squadron. He is credited with downing multiple enemy aircraft, including a Messerschmitt 109, three Junkers, and a Stuka.

    Ian added: “We owe a huge debt of gratitude to Fishbourne Parish Council. They understand the importance of this display — not just as a tribute to the past, but as an inspiration for future generations. For heroes like Sgt Shepperd, and all who served, we remember them with pride.

    “We will also be honouring the memory of Squadron Leader Mark Long, a gifted pilot who brought joy to so many. The Spitfire expected to fly — TE311 — was the one he flew the most and now bears his name along its starboard side. To see it soar, especially in his memory, will be one of the most emotional and uplifting moments of this year’s event.”

    The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight is scheduled to appear shortly after the Remembrance segment of the day’s proceedings.

    Islanders are encouraged to gather and witness what promises to be a highlight of Armed Forces Day — a soaring salute to courage, sacrifice, and enduring legacy.

    Photo: Darren Harbar.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Completion of £6m public realm scheme marks transformational investment for Banbridge

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    The revitalisation of Banbridge town centre has been officially celebrated today – Wednesday 14 May – with the launch of the completed Banbridge public realm scheme.

    The £6 million investment has transformed the heart of the town into a safer, more accessible, and more vibrant destination for residents, businesses and visitors alike.

    Lord Mayor, Councillor Sarah Duffy welcomed the Department for Communities Minister Gordon Lyons to the town to see the improvements which were jointly funded by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, DfC and the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund.

    The scheme represents a significant milestone in the regeneration of the town, enhancing its distinctive heritage while providing a more modern, functional and attractive public space.

    Speaking at the event, Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Councillor Sarah Duffy, said:

    “The completion of this major public realm scheme is a moment of real pride for Banbridge. It not only preserves and enhances our rich built heritage but also reimagines the town centre as a dynamic, accessible and welcoming place for all. With improved walkways, lighting, civic spaces and streetscapes, this investment lays the foundation for continued economic growth, community connection and future cultural events. I want to thank everyone involved in this project, including the contractors, our local businesses and the Department for Communities, for their support and commitment to Banbridge’s future.”

    Delivered by Fox Building and Engineering Limited, the scheme commenced in May 2023 and included a wide range of infrastructure improvements across the town centre. New natural stone paving, granite kerbs, widened and resurfaced footpaths, enhanced wayfinding, increased cycle parking and tree planting have all contributed to a high-quality, better-connected streetscape.

    The event also celebrated the success and continuation of the Empty to Occupied Scheme funded by DfC. This programme is aimed at targeting dereliction across the borough by refurbishing buildings and making them fit for purpose and ready to occupy, thus improving the vitality of our high streets, creating jobs and increasing footfall.

    To date, 10 new units have been refurbished, with seven of these already back into commercial use. By the end of the programme, it is anticipated that funding of £751,277 will have leveraged £1,185,740 of private investment. Within five years, the return on public investment will equate to £2 for every £1 of public money.

    Communities Minister Gordon Lyons welcomed the investment in Banbridge, saying:

    “It is good to see the completion of Banbridge Public Realm, which has genuinely enhanced the centre of Banbridge, adding to its attraction as somewhere to visit, shop, work and invest in. In addition, the Empty to Occupied Scheme is a great example of tackling vacancy and bringing new life into the town. My Department’s funding has enabled both schemes to be delivered and it shows what positive results can be gained through collaborative working with our colleagues in Armagh City Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council.”

    Chair of Banbridge Chamber of Commerce, Michael Donaghy, commented: 

    “This investment is a vote of confidence in the future of Banbridge. The improvements have already made a positive difference to the way people experience our town, with improved access and an environment that reflects our rich history while supporting modern-day business. The new civic plaza and upgraded infrastructure will attract more visitors and shoppers, helping to stimulate our local economy and support our business community.”

    The Banbridge Public Realm Scheme is part of Council’s wider regeneration programme aimed at supporting sustainable town centres, strengthening local identity and ensuring the long-term vitality of the borough’s urban areas.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitcoin Solaris Launches Phase 3 Presale Ahead of Mobile Mining Rollout via Nova App

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TALLINN, Estonia, May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitcoin Solaris, a next-generation blockchain platform engineered for speed, scalability, and accessibility, has entered Phase 3 of its public token presale, with BTC-S tokens now priced at 3 USDT. This milestone comes as the network prepares to launch the Nova App, a mobile-based mining tool that will enable users to mine tokens directly from their smartphones—an approach aimed at democratizing access to blockchain rewards.

    Mobile Mining Set to Onboard Millions

    The upcoming Nova App introduces a new way for individuals to participate in blockchain networks. Designed for ease of use, the app will allow users to contribute storage and idle CPU from their smartphones to passively mine BTC-S tokens. There’s no need for specialized hardware or staking procedures—Nova runs seamlessly in the background, making network participation more inclusive and globally accessible.

    “Our goal is to lower the barriers to blockchain mining,” said a Bitcoin Solaris spokesperson. “With the Nova App, anyone with a smartphone can contribute to the network and earn rewards, without the complexity that typically limits participation.”

    High-Speed Infrastructure with 2-Second Finality

    At the core of Bitcoin Solaris is a dual-layer blockchain architecture that delivers sub-2-second transaction finality. The network is capable of processing over 10,000 transactions per second (TPS), enabling use cases that range from DeFi and NFTs to real-time data processing.

    • The Base Layer ensures security and ledger integrity through a combination of Proof-of-Stake (PoS) and Proof-of-Capacity (PoC). This hybrid consensus reduces energy usage while maintaining decentralization.
    • The Solaris Layer handles smart contract execution and fast block production using Proof-of-History (PoH) and Proof-of-Time (PoT). This allows for deterministic block ordering and rapid propagation.

    This architecture was purpose-built for scalability at the protocol level—not added on as an afterthought—and is designed to handle high-frequency transactions with provable finality.

    Verified by Independent Security Audits

    To reinforce trust and security, Bitcoin Solaris has undergone multiple third-party reviews:

    • Cyberscope Audit reviewed the core protocol, identifying vulnerabilities and validating contract behavior under load.
    • Freshcoins Audit confirmed logic integrity and examined token mechanics.
    • KYC Verification ensures project leadership accountability—critical for investor and ecosystem trust.

    These certifications signal readiness for not only public use, but institutional scrutiny — something speed alone can’t replace.

    Limited Token Supply and Transparent Distribution

    Bitcoin Solaris maintains a hard cap of 21 million BTC-S tokens, with no inflation or dynamic minting. Token emissions follow a halving model, similar to Bitcoin, to promote long-term sustainability and value predictability. During Presale Phase 3, only 4.2 million tokens (20%) are available at the 3 USDT rate. In Phase 4, the price will increase to 4 USDT.

    For a technical dive into how Bitcoin Solaris achieves sub-2-second transaction finality, Crypto Royal walks through the network’s layered design, time-based consensus model, and how it compares to XRP in real-world performance scenarios.

    About Bitcoin Solaris

    Bitcoin Solaris is a high-performance, layer-1 blockchain protocol built to deliver ultra-fast transaction finality, energy-efficient consensus, and mass accessibility through mobile integration. The network is designed to support decentralized applications and everyday users alike, combining enterprise-level infrastructure with tools that enable anyone to participate.

    Website: https://bitcoinsolaris.com
    X (Twitter): https://x.com/BitcoinSolaris
    Telegram: https://t.me/Bitcoinsolaris

    Media Contact:
    Xander Levine
    info@bitcoinsolaris.com

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

    Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.
    Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.

    Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

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

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ad2208fa-6981-4051-abdf-f11fd672b258

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/451e0475-9eb4-4058-af19-dc8749f89bb1

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/fe9aff59-3032-4661-9f67-fb691a20e558

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/24a489b2-0041-4082-84e8-c258e2d00899

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Euronext publishes Q1 2025 results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Euronext publishes Q1 2025 results

    Strong start of the year with growth of non-volume-related revenue, record FICC trading volumes and exceptional market volatility.

    Amsterdam, Brussels, Dublin, Lisbon, Milan, Oslo and Paris – 14 May 2025 – Euronext, the leading European capital market infrastructure, today publishes its results for the first quarter 2025 using the new, simplified reporting framework1.

    • Q1 2025 revenue and income was up +14.1% at €458.5 million:

    Non-volume-related revenue and income represented 57% of total revenue and income and covered 158% of underlying operating expenses, excluding D&A2:

    • Securities Services revenues grew to €83.4 million (+6.8%), driven by double-digit growth in custody and settlement revenue;
    • Capital Markets and Data Solutions revenue grew to €157.4 million (+6.6%), driven by the continued commercial expansion of Euronext Corporate and Investor Solutions and Technology Services and the strong performance of Advanced Data Solutions, supported by the acquisition of GRSS and by retail participation;
    • Net treasury income was €18.6 million (+58.8%), demonstrating the benefits of the Euronext Clearing expansion and the internalisation of net treasury income following the derivatives clearing migration in Q3 2024.

    Volume-related revenue was driven by high market volatility in Q1 2025:

    • FICC3Markets reported €90.7 million of revenue (+25.1%), driven by record performance in fixed income trading and clearing, commodities trading and clearing and FX trading;
    • Equity Markets revenue grew to €108.4 million (+18.0%), reflecting high volatility.
    • Underlying operating expenses excluding D&A were at €164.5 million (+9.1%). The increase compared to Q1 2024 reflects investments in growth and the impact of acquisitions performed in 2024, combined with strong costs discipline, in line with the ramp-up of growth investments set out as part of Euronext’s underlying cost guidance of €670 million for the full year 2025.
    • Adjusted EBITDA was €294.1 million (+17.0%) and adjusted EBITDA margin was 64.1% (+1.6pts).
    • Adjusted net income was €183.5 million (+11.8%) and adjusted EPS was €1.80 (+13.9%).
    • Reported net income was €164.8 million (+17.9%) and reported EPS was €1.62 (+20.0%).
    • Net debt to EBITDA4was at 1.4x at the end of March 2025, within Euronext’s target range of the “Innovate for Growth 2027” strategic plan. On 22 April 2025, Euronext had successfully redeemed the €500 million bond issued in connection with the acquisition of Euronext Dublin in April 2018.

    Key figures for the first quarter of 2025:

    In €m, unless stated otherwise Q1 2025 Q1 2024 % var % var l-f-l3F5
    Revenue and income 458.5 401.9 +14.1% +12.9%
    Underlying operational expenses excluding D&A2 (164.5) (150.7) +9.1% +7.2%
    Adjusted EBITDA 294.1 251.3 +17.0% +16.4%
    Adjusted EBITDA margin 64.1% 62.5% +1.6pts +1.9pts
    Net income, share of the parent company shareholders 164.8 139.7 +17.9%  
    Adjusted net income, share of the parent company shareholders 183.5 164.2 +11.8%  
    Adjusted EPS (basic, in €) 1.80 1.58 +13.9%  
    Reported EPS (basic, in €) 1.62 1.35 +20.0%  
    Adjusted EPS (diluted, in €) 1.80 1.58 +13.9%  
    Reported EPS (diluted, in €) 1.61 1.34 +20.1%  

    Stéphane Boujnah, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Managing Board of Euronext, said:

    “In the first quarter of 2025, Euronext has delivered a remarkable performance. We achieved record revenue and income of €458.5 million, driven by initial successes of the strategic initiatives, growth of non-volume-related revenue and exceptional volatility across trading and clearing activities, especially in cash equity, fixed income, FX, power and commodities. Our diversified business model has allowed us to invest in growth and reach an adjusted EBITDA of €294.1 million, marking a significant +17.0% increase compared to Q1 2024. In Q1 2025, we reached record adjusted EPS (basic) of €1.80 per share. Our reported EPS (basic) grew by an impressive +20.0% compared to Q1 2024, to €1.62 per share.

    We have launched significant initiatives of our ‘Innovate for Growth 2027’ strategic plan to reinforce Euronext as a leader in the European financial markets. The upcoming consolidation of settlement for Amsterdam, Brussels and Paris equity trades in Euronext Securities represents a significant optimisation of the European post-trade landscape. With this strategic move, we foster the integration and competitiveness of European capital markets at an unprecedented speed.

    The launch late April 2025 of a European Common Prospectus6in English will pursue this ambition. This new initiative facilitates access to European capital markets and addresses the need for a competitive, integrated Savings and Investment Union. In addition, we are proud to launch a comprehensive set of measures to support the financing needs of companies that contribute to Europe’s strategic autonomy7.

    The acquisition in May 2025 of Admincontrol8, leader in the governance SaaS space, accelerates the development of Euronext Corporate Solutions in the Nordics, and reinforces Euronext’s subscription-based revenue.

    With this strong first quarter of 2025, we demonstrate our capacity to innovate ahead of the curve, leading the way to a stronger, more innovative and more competitive European capital market.”

    Q1 2025 business highlights

    • Q1 2025 revenue and income
      Q1 2025 Q1 2024 % var % var l-f-l
    Revenue and income (in €m) 458.5 401.9 +14.1% +12.9%
    Securities Services 83.4 78.1 +6.8% +4.8%
    Capital Markets and Data Solutions 157.4 147.6 +6.6% +4.5%
    Net treasury income 18.6 11.7 +58.8% +58.8%
    FICC Markets 90.7 72.5 +25.1% +25.2%
    Equity Markets 108.4 91.9 +18.0% +18.0%
    Other income 0.1 0.2 N/A N/A
    • Non-volume-related revenue
      • Securities Services
      Q1 2025 Q1 2024 % var % var l-f-l
    Revenue (in €m) 83.4 78.1 +6.8% +4.8%
    Custody and Settlement 75.8 67.9 +11.6% +9.4%
    Other Post Trade 7.6 10.2 -25.3% -25.3%

    Revenue from Custody and Settlement this quarter was at €75.8 million, +11.6% compared to Q1 2024. This strong performance was driven by growing Assets under Custody, dynamic settlement instructions and continued double-digit growth in services, supported by the acquisition of Acupay. At the end of the quarter, Assets under Custody amounted to €7.1 trillion, up +3.8% compared to end of Q1 2024. Over 39.3 million instructions were settled via Euronext Securities during the first quarter of 2025, up +9.3% compared to the first quarter of 2024.

    Other Post Trade revenue, which includes membership fees and other non-volume-related clearing fees, was €7.6 million in Q1 2025. The -25.3% decrease compared to Q1 2024 stems from the internalisation of the net treasury income related to Euronext derivatives flows in September 2024, which are now integrated in the net treasury income line.

    • Capital Markets and Data Solutions
      Q1 2025 Q1 2024 % var % var l-f-l
    Revenue (in €m) 157.4                147.6                  +6.6% +4.5%
    Primary Markets 46.3 45.5 +1.8% +2.1%
    Advanced Data Solutions 65.1 60.2 +8.1% +3.7%
    Corporate and Investor Solutions and Technology Services 45.9 41.8 +9.8% +8.1%

    Primary Markets revenue was €46.3 million in Q1 2025, an increase of +1.8% compared to Q1 2024. The first quarter recorded slower equity listing performance explained by a volatile environment. Euronext sustained its leading position for equity listing with 8 new listings.

    Advanced Data Solutions revenue was €65.1 million in Q1 2025, up +8.1% compared to Q1 2024. This dynamic performance reflects the contribution of GRSS, strong appetite from retail and growing monetisation of diversified datasets.

    Corporate and Investor Solutions and Technology Services revenue grew by +9.8% in Q1 2025 to €45.9 million. This strong performance reflects the continued commercial expansion of the governance SaaS offering, the increased use of colocation and microwave connectivity, and double-digit growth of investor solutions, supported by the acquisition of Substantive Research.

    Following the completion of the acquisition of Admincontrol on 13 May 2025, Admincontrol’s revenue will be integrated with Corporate and Investor Solutions and Technology Services revenue from Q2 2025.

    • Net treasury income

    Net treasury income was at €18.6 million (+58.8%). This reflect the benefit from the Euronext Clearing expansion and the internalisation of treasury income from LCH SA following the completion of the derivatives clearing migration, as well as higher cash collateral posted to the CCP due to the elevated market volatility.

    • Volume-related revenue
      • FICC Markets
      Q1 2025 Q1 2024 % var % var
    l-f-l
    Revenue (in €m) 90.7 72.5 +25.1% +25.2%
    Fixed income trading and clearing 51.8 39.1 +32.4% +32.4%
    Commodities9 trading and clearing 29.6 26.3 +12.8% +13.9%
    FX trading 9.2 7.1 +30.4% +26.5%

    Fixed income trading and clearing revenue reached €51.8 million in Q1 2025, up +32.4% compared to Q1 2024, driven by record fixed income trading activity supported by favourable market conditions.

    Commodities trading and clearing revenue reached €29.6 million in Q1 2025, up +12.8% compared to Q1 2024, reflecting record intraday power trading volumes and dynamic agricultural commodity trading and clearing.

    FX trading revenue was up +30.4%, at €9.2 million in Q1 2025, reflecting record trading volumes, and a positively geared volume mix.

    • Equity Markets
      Q1 2025 Q1 2024 % var % var
    l-f-l
    Revenue (in €m) 108.4 91.9 +18.0% +18.0%
    Cash equity trading and clearing 94.0 76.8 +22.5% +22.5%
    Financial derivatives trading and clearing 14.4 15.1 -4.8% -4.8%

    Cash equity trading and clearing revenue was €94.0 million in Q1 2025, up +22.5% driven by exceptional market volatility. Euronext recorded average daily cash trading volumes of €13.8 billion, up +31.8% compared to Q1 2024. Revenue capture on cash trading averaged 0.50 bps for the first quarter of 2025, impacted by higher volumes, stronger intraday volatility and larger average order size. Euronext market share on cash equity trading averaged 64.1% in Q1 2025.

    Financial derivatives trading and clearing revenue was €14.4 million in Q1 2025, -4.8% compared to Q1 2024. This decrease is mostly linked to the decrease of the average clearing fees, as following the clearing migration certain clearing fees are now reported in the line Other Post Trade revenues, and as such not fully comparable with Q1 2024.

    Q1 2025 financial performance

    In €m, unless stated otherwise Q1 2025 Q1 2024 % var % var
    l-f-l
    Revenue and income 458.5 401.9 +14.1% +12.9%
    Underlying operational expenses exc. D&A (164.5) (150.7) +9.1% +7.2%
    Adjusted EBITDA 294.1 251.3 +17.0% +16.4%
    Adjusted EBITDA margin 64.1% 62.5% +1.6pts +1.9pts
    Operating expenses exc. D&A (164.3) (159.4) +3.1% +1.2%
    EBITDA 294.2 242.6 +21.3% +20.6%
    Depreciation & Amortisation (48.3) (44.0) +9.8% +10.6%
    Total Expenses (inc. D&A) (212.6) (203.4) +4.6% +2.9%
    Adjusted operating profit 272.6 232.3 +17.4% +16.8%
    Operating Profit 245.9 198.6 +23.8%  
    Net financing income / (expense) (1.5) 4.7 N/A  
    Profit before income tax 244.4 203.3 +20.2%  
    Income tax expense (67.8) (54.7) +24.0%  
    Share of non-controlling interests (11.9) (8.9) +33.6%  
    Net income, share of the parent company shareholders 164.8 139.7 +17.9%  
    Adjusted Net income, share of the parent company shareholders10 183.5 164.2 +11.8%  
    Adjusted EPS (basic, in €) 1.80 1.58 +13.9%  
    Reported EPS (basic, in €) 1.62 1.35 +20.0%  
    Adjusted EPS (diluted, in €) 1.80 1.58 +13.9%  
    Reported EPS (diluted, in €) 1.61 1.34 +20.1%  
    • Q1 2025 adjusted EBITDA

    Underlying operating expenses excluding D&A1 were at €164.5 million (+9.1%). The increase compared to Q1 2024 reflects investments in growth and the impact of acquisitions performed in 2024, partially offset by cost discipline. In addition, Q1 2024 expenses were positively impacted by one-off releases.

    Driven by the double digit growth in revenue, adjusted EBITDA for the quarter reached €294.1 million, up +17.0% compared to Q1 2024. This represents an adjusted EBITDA margin of 64.1%, up 1.6pts vs. Q1 2024. On a like-for-like basis at constant currencies, adjusted EBITDA grew by +16.4% compared to Q1 2024.

    Q1 2025 non-underlying expenses profited from a one-off release of accruals. As a consequence, reported EBITDA was at €294.2 million, up +21.3% compared to Q1 2024.

    • Q1 2025 net income, share of the parent company shareholders

    Depreciation and amortisation accounted for €48.3 million in Q1 2025, +9.8% more than Q1 2024. PPA related to acquired businesses accounted for €20.4 million.

    Adjusted operating profit was €272.6 million, up +17.4% compared to Q1 2024.

    Euronext reported a net financing expense of €1.5 million in Q1 2025, compared to €4.7 million net financing income in Q1 2024. The variation reflects short-term FX movements and decreasing interest rates.

    Income tax for Q1 2025 was €67.8 million. This translated into an effective tax rate of 27.7% for the quarter, compared to 26.9% in Q1 2024.

    Share of non-controlling interests amounted to €11.9 million, correlated with the strong performance of MTS and Nord Pool.

    As a result, the reported net income, share of the parent company shareholders, increased by +17.9% for Q1 2025 compared to Q1 2024, to €164.8 million. This represents a reported EPS of €1.62 basic and €1.61 diluted. Adjusted net income, share of the parent company shareholders, was up +11.8% to €183.5 million. Adjusted EPS (basic) was €1.80. This increase reflects higher profit and a lower number of outstanding shares over the first quarter of 2025 compared to Q1 2024.

    The weighted number of shares used over the first quarter of 2025 was 101,695,588 for the basic calculation and 102,166,786 for the diluted calculation, compared to 103,640,164 and 104,040,256 respectively over the first quarter of 2024. The difference is due to the share repurchase programme executed by Euronext.

    In Q1 2025, Euronext reported a net cash flow from operating activities of €190.6 million, compared to €184.6 million in Q1 2024, reflecting higher profit before tax and higher income tax paid in Q1 2025. Excluding the impact on working capital from Euronext Clearing and Nord Pool CCP activities, net cash flow from operating activities accounted for 88.1% of EBITDA in Q1 2025.

    Q1 2025 corporate highlights since publication of the fourth quarter 2024 results on 13 February 2025

    • Euronext consolidates settlement on its markets to improve the competitiveness of European capital markets

    On 12 March 2025, Euronext has announced that from September 2026, Euronext Amsterdam, Brussels, and Paris will designate Euronext Securities as the central securities depository (CSD) for equity trade settlements. This aligns with Euronext’s “Innovate for Growth 2027” strategic plan and aims to enhance the competitiveness of European capital markets by addressing post-trade fragmentation. Currently, equity trade settlement in Europe is fragmented across over 30 CSDs. This initiative allows clients to consolidate settlement and custody activities across multiple markets into a single CSD, streamlining operations and enhancing liquidity. It also aids them adapting to regulatory changes, such as the move to T+1 settlement in October 2027. Additionally, Euronext has moved its own shares to Euronext Securities, showcasing the benefits of this consolidation for equity issuers.

    • Dividend payment schedule for 2025

    The Managing Board, upon the approval of the Supervisory Board, has decided to propose for approval at the Annual General Meeting the payment of a dividend of €2.90 per ordinary share (based on the total number of eligible shares). The dividend would be distributed evenly (pro rata the number of shares held) to holders of ordinary shares on the dividend record date set on 27 May 2025 (ex-dividend date is set on 26 May 2025 and payment date is set on 28 May 2025). This dividend represents a pay-out ratio of 50% of the reported net income, in line with Euronext’s current dividend policy.

    Corporate highlights since 1 April 2025

    • Euronext completes the acquisition of Admincontrol

    On 13 May 2025, Euronext announced the completion of the acquisition of 100% of the shares of Admincontrol for an enterprise value of NOK 4,650 million. This transaction complies with Euronext’s capital allocation policy, with a ROCE expected to exceed the WACC within three to five years post-closing11. Admincontrol will be part of Euronext Corporate Solutions, strengthening the development of the franchise in the Nordics and the UK. This acquisition supports Euronext’s strategy to expand its software-as-a-service (SaaS) offering and increases Euronext’s share of subscription-based revenue. Admincontrol has experienced double-digit growth over the past five years, with NOK 452 million in revenue and NOK 200 million in EBITDA in 202412. From the second quarter of 2025, Admincontrol’s revenue will be integrated into Euronext’s revenue line Corporate and Investor Solutions and Technology Services.

    • Launch of European Common Prospectus to accelerate capital market integration and boost IPO activity across the EU

    On 25 April 2025, Euronext has launched the European Common Prospectus, a standardised template for equity issuances, with the aim to integrate European capital markets more deeply. This initiative seeks to reduce regulatory fragmentation, enhance transparency, and promote cross-border investment. The prospectus, developed since November 2024, aligns with existing EU regulations and simplifies the listing process by reducing the required sections from 21 to 11. It uses English as the preferred language, facilitating cross-border access to capital. This new format benefits issuers by streamlining the listing process, and investors by providing consistency and comparability across EU jurisdictions. The full implementation of the Listing Act is expected by June 2026; but this prospectus addresses the immediate need to boost IPO activity in Europe in the meantime.

    • Euronext strengthens its support for European strategic autonomy

    On 6 May 2025, Euronext announced the implementation of a full set of initiatives to support investments in European strategic autonomy. This includes the creation of a new series of thematic indices covering companies that contribute to Europe’s strategic autonomy, tailored solutions to enhance equity financing of European aerospace and defence companies and facilitated issuance of European defence bonds13.

    • Euronext volumes for April 2025

    In April 2025, the average daily transaction value on the Euronext cash order book stood at €16.0 billion, up +44.1% compared to the same period last year. The overall average daily volume on Euronext derivatives stood at 712,389 lots, up +6.4% compared to April 2024, and the open interest was 25,388,147 contracts at the end of April 2025, up +6.4% compared to April 2024. The average daily volume on Euronext FX’s spot foreign exchange market stood at $38.2 billion, up +33.1% compared to the same period last year. Average daily day-ahead power traded was 2.7TWh, down -3.5% compared to the same period last year, and average daily intraday power traded was 0.5TWh, up +37.4% compared to April 2024. MTS Cash average daily volumes were up +55.4% to €55.8 billion in April 2025, MTS Repo term adjusted average daily volume stood at €723.1 billion, up +50.1% compared to the same period last year. Euronext Clearing cleared 32,206,770 shares in April 2025, +58.2% compared to April 2024. €2,752 billion of wholesale bonds were cleared in April 2025 (double counted), up +19.7% compared to the same period in 2024. 1,098,474 bond retail contracts were cleared in April 2025 (double counted), down -18.0% compared to April 2024. The number of derivatives contracts cleared was 14,247,781, up +934.7% compared to April 2024 (single counted). Euronext Securities reported 12,506,259 settlement instructions in April 2025, up +14.0% compared to the same period last year. The total Assets Under Custody reached over €7.0 trillion in April 2025, up +3.0% compared to the same period last year.

    Results Webcast

    A webcast will be held on Thursday, 15 May 2025, at 09:00 CEST (Paris time) / 08:O0 BST (London time):

    Live webcast:

    For the live webcast go to: Webcast

    The webcast will be available for replay after the call at the webcast link and on the Euronext Investor Relations webpage.
    Contacts

    ANALYSTS & INVESTORS – ir@euronext.com

    Investor Relations        Aurélie Cohen                 

    Judith Stein        +33 6 15 23 91 97          

    MEDIA – mediateam@euronext.com 

    Europe        Aurélie Cohen         +33 1 70 48 24 45   

    Andrea Monzani         +39 02 72 42 62 13 

    Belgium        Marianne Aalders         +32 26 20 15 01                 

    France, Corporate        Flavio Bornancin-Tomasella        +33 1 70 48 24 45                 

    Ireland        Andrea Monzani         +39 02 72 42 62 13                 

    Italy         Ester Russom         +39 02 72 42 67 56                 

    The Netherlands        Marianne Aalders         +31 20 721 41 33                 

    Norway         Cathrine Lorvik Segerlund        +47 41 69 59 10                 

    Portugal         Sandra Machado        +351 91 777 68 97                

    Corporate Solutions        Andrea Monzani         +39 02 72 42 62 13                          

    About Euronext  

    Euronext is the leading European capital market infrastructure, covering the entire capital markets value chain, from listing, trading, clearing, settlement and custody, to solutions for issuers and investors. Euronext runs MTS, one of Europe’s leading electronic fixed income trading markets, and Nord Pool, the European power market. Euronext also provides clearing and settlement services through Euronext Clearing and its Euronext Securities CSDs in Denmark, Italy, Norway and Portugal.

    As of March 2025, Euronext’s regulated exchanges in Belgium, France, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway and Portugal host nearly 1,800 listed issuers with €6.3 trillion in market capitalisation, a strong blue-chip franchise and the largest global centre for debt and fund listings. With a diverse domestic and international client base, Euronext handles 25% of European lit equity trading. Its products include equities, FX, ETFs, bonds, derivatives, commodities and indices.

    For the latest news, go to euronext.com or follow us on X and LinkedIn.

    Disclaimer

    This press release is for information purposes only: it is not a recommendation to engage in investment activities and is provided “as is”, without representation or warranty of any kind. The figures in this document have not been audited or reviewed by our external auditor. While all reasonable care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the content, Euronext does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness. Euronext will not be held liable for any loss or damages of any nature ensuing from using, trusting or acting on information provided. No information set out or referred to in this publication may be regarded as creating any right or obligation. The creation of rights and obligations in respect of financial products that are traded on the exchanges operated by Euronext’s subsidiaries shall depend solely on the applicable rules of the market operator. All proprietary rights and interest in or connected with this publication shall vest in Euronext. This press release speaks only as of this date. Euronext refers to Euronext N.V. and its affiliates. Information regarding trademarks and intellectual property rights of Euronext is available at www.euronext.com/terms-use.

    © 2025, Euronext N.V. – All rights reserved. 

    The Euronext Group processes your personal data in order to provide you with information about Euronext (the “Purpose”). With regard to the processing of this personal data, Euronext will comply with its obligations under Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and Council of 27 April 2016 (General Data Protection Regulation, “GDPR”), and any applicable national laws, rules and regulations implementing the GDPR, as provided in its privacy statement available at: www.euronext.com/privacy-policy. In accordance with the applicable legislation you have rights with regard to the processing of your personal data: for more information on your rights, please refer to: www.euronext.com/data_subjects_rights_request_information. To make a request regarding the processing of your data or to unsubscribe from this press release service, please use our data subject request form at connect2.euronext.com/form/data-subjects-rights-request or email our Data Protection Officer at dpo@euronext.com.

    Appendix

    The figures in this Appendix have not been audited or reviewed by our external auditor.

    Non-IFRS financial measures

    For comparative purposes, the company provides unaudited non-IFRS measures including:

    • Operational expenses excluding depreciation and amortisation, underlying operational expenses excluding depreciation and amortisation;
    • EBITDA, EBITDA margin, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA margin.

    Non-IFRS measures are defined as follows:

    • Operational expenses excluding depreciation and amortisation as the total of salary and employee benefits, and other operational expenses;
    • Underlying operational expenses excluding depreciation and amortisation as the total of salary and employee benefits, and other operational expenses, excluding non-recurring costs;
    • Underlying revenue and income as the total of revenue and income, excluding non-recurring revenue and income;
    • Non-underlying items as items of revenue, income and expense that are material by their size and/or that are infrequent and unusual by their nature or incidence are not considered to be recurring in the normal course of business and are classified as non-underlying items on the face of the income statement within their relevant category in order to provide further understanding of the ongoing sustainable performance of the Group. These items can include:
      • integration or double run costs of significant projects, restructuring costs and costs related to acquisitions that change the perimeter of the Group;
      • one-off finance costs, gains or losses on sale of subsidiaries and impairments of investments:
      • amortisation and impairment of intangible assets which are recognised as a result of acquisitions and mostly comprising customer relationships, brand names and software that were identified during purchase price allocation (PPA);
      • tax related to non-underlying items.
    • Adjusted operating profit as the operating profit adjusted for any non-underlying revenue and income and non-underlying costs, including PPA of acquired businesses;
    • EBITDA as the operating profit before depreciation and amortisation;
    • Adjusted EBITDA as the adjusted operating profit before depreciation and amortisation adjusted for any non-underlying operational expenses excluding depreciation and amortisation;
    • EBITDA margin as EBITDA divided by total revenue and income;
    • Adjusted EBITDA margin as adjusted EBITDA, divided by total revenue and income;
    • Adjusted net income, as the net income, share of the parent company shareholders, adjusted for any non-underlying items and related tax impact.

    Non-IFRS financial measures are not meant to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for comparable IFRS measures and should be read only in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements.

    Consolidated income statement

      Q1 2025 Q1 2024
    in €m, unless stated otherwise Underlying Non-underlying Reported Underlying Non-underlying Reported
    Revenue and income 458.5 – 458.5 401.9 – 401.9
    Securities Services 83.4 – 83.4 78.1 – 78.1
    Custody and Settlement 75.8 – 75.8 67.9 – 67.9
    Other Post Trade 7.6 – 7.6 10.2 – 10.2
    Capital Markets and Data Solutions 157.4 – 157.4 147.6 – 147.6
    Primary Markets 46.3 – 46.3 45.5 – 45.5
    Advanced data solutions 65.1 – 65.1 60.2 – 60.2
    Corporate and Investor Solutions and Technology Services 45.9 – 45.9 41.8 – 41.8
    Net treasury income 18.6 – 18.6 11.7 – 11.7
    FICC Markets 90.7 – 90.7 72.5 – 72.5
    Fixed income trading and clearing 51.8 – 51.8 39.1 – 39.1
    Commodities income trading and clearing 29.6 – 29.6 26.3 – 26.3
    FX trading 9.2 – 9.2 7.1 – 7.1
    Equity Markets 108.4 – 108.4 91.9 – 91.9
    Cash equity trading and clearing 94.0 – 94.0 76.8 – 76.8
    Financial derivatives trading and clearing 14.4 – 14.4 15.1 – 15.1
    Other income 0.1 – 0.1 0.2 – 0.2
    Operating expenses excluding D&A (164.5) 0.1 (164.3) (150.7) (8.7) (159.4)
    Salaries and employee benefits (86.9) (0.5) (87.3) (80.7) (4.4) (85.1)
    Other operational expenses, of which (77.6) 0.6 (77.0) (70.0) (4.3) (74.3)
    System & communication (25.9) (0.1) (26.0) (24.6) (1.4) (26.0)
    Professional services (18.1) 1.0 (17.1) (11.9) (1.9) (13.8)
    Clearing expense (0.2) – (0.2) (9.1) – (9.1)
    Accommodation (4.6) (0.2) (4.8) (3.8) (0.3) (4.1)
    Other operational expenses (28.8) – (28.8) (20.6) (0.7) (21.3)
    EBITDA 294.1 0.1 294.2 251.3 (8.7) 242.6
    EBITDA margin 64.1%   64.2% 62.5%   60.4%
    Depreciation & amortisation (21.5) (26.8) (48.3) (19.0) (25.0) (44.0)
    Total expenses (185.9) (26.7) (212.6) (169.7) (33.7) (203.4)
    Operating profit 272.6 (26.7) 245.9 232.3 (33.7) 198.6
    Net financing income / (expense) (1.5) – (1.5) 4.7 (0.0) 4.7
    Profit before income tax 271.1 (26.7) 244.4 237.0 (33.7) 203.3
    Income tax expense (74.9) 7.1 (67.8) (63.4) 8.7 (54.7)
    Non-controlling interests (12.7) 0.9 (11.9) (9.3) 0.4 (8.9)
    Net income, share of the parent company shareholders 183.5 (18.8) 164.8 164.2 (24.5) 139.7
    EPS (basic, in €) 1.80   1.62 1.58   1.35
    EPS (diluted, in €) 1.80   1.61 1.58   1.34

    Adjusted EPS definition

      Q1 2025 Q1 2024
    Net income reported 164.8 139.7
    EPS reported 1.62 1.35
    Adjustments for non-underlying items included in:    
    Operating expenses exc. D&A                                       0.1 (8.7)
    Depreciation and amortisation                                   (26.8) (25.0)
    Minority interest 0.9 0.4
    Tax related to adjustments 7.1 8.7
    Adjusted net income 183.5 164.2
    Adjusted EPS 1.80 1.58

    Consolidated comprehensive income statement

      Q1 2025 Q1 2024
    Profit for the period 176.6 148.6
         
    Other comprehensive income    
    Items that may be reclassified to profit or loss:    
    – Exchange differences on translation of foreign operations 16.9 (26.3)
    – Income tax impact on exchange differences on translation of foreign operations (1.1) 2.6
    – Gains and losses on cash flow hedges 2.2 –
    – Change in value of debt investments at fair value through other comprehensive income – 0.2
    – Income tax impact on change in value of debt investments at fair value through
    other comprehensive income    		 – (0.1)
         
    Items that will not be reclassified to profit or loss:    
    – Remeasurements of post-employment benefit obligations (2.5) (0.3)
    Other comprehensive income for the period, net of tax 15.5 (23.8)
    Total comprehensive income for the period 192.1 124.8
         
    Comprehensive income attributable to:    
    – Owners of the parent 179.9 116.6
    – Non-controlling interests 12.2 8.2

    Consolidated statement of financial position

    in €m 31 March 2025 31 December 2024
    Non-current assets    
    Property, plant and equipment 107.4 106.2
    Right-of-use assets 88.2 57.5
    Goodwill and other intangible assets                                6,096.5                           6,096.2
    Deferred income tax assets 29.1 30.4
    Investments in associates and joint ventures                                          0.8                                    0.8
    Financial assets at fair value through OCI                                     357.0                               357.0
    Other non-current assets 3.4 3.5
    Total non-current assets 6,682.4 6,651.6
         
    Current assets    
    Trade and other receivables 574.2 412.9
    Income tax receivable 17.5 11.4
    Derivative financial instruments 2.2 –
    CCP clearing business assets 341,647.6 270,288.7
    Other current financial assets 59.5 63.8
    Cash & cash equivalents 1,642.3 1,673.5
    Total current assets 343,943.3                272,450.3
         
    Total assets 350,625.7 279,101.8
         
    Equity    
    Shareholders’ equity 4,224.6 4,245.2
    Non-controlling interests 161.7 156.8
    Total Equity 4,386.3 4,402.0
         
    Non-current liabilities    
    Borrowings 2,537.5 2,537.0
    Lease liabilities 71.7 46.2
    Other non-current financial liabilities 3.5 3.5
    Deferred income tax liabilities 495.1 496.8
    Post-employment benefits 23.0 21.0
    Contract liabilities 54.2 56.4
    Other provisions 7.0 7.2
    Total Non-current liabilities 3,192.1 3,168.2
         
    Current liabilities    
    Borrowings 524.0 516.5
    Lease liabilities 21.9 15.8
    Derivative financial instruments –                                         0.1
    CCP clearing business liabilities 341,695.3 270,357.9
    Income tax payable 99.3 91.1
    Trade and other payables 526.5 464.3
    Contract liabilities 176.2 80.1
    Other provisions 4.1 5.9
    Total Current liabilities 343,047.3 271,531.7
         
    Total equity and liabilities 350,625.7 279,101.8

    *The comparative figures for CCP clearing business assets and liabilities were both adjusted upwards by €69,713.3 million in the Universal Registration Document 2024 as published on 28 March 2025 due to an adjustment in the recognition of clearing business assets and clearing business liabilities, when compared to the positions in the press release dated 13 February 2025.

    Consolidated statement of cash flows

    in €m Q1 2025 Q1 2024
    Profit before tax 244.4 203.3
    Adjustments for:    
    – Depreciation and amortisation 48.3 44.0
               – Share based payments 3.9 3.9
    – Changes in working capital (37.4) (36.6)
    Cash flow from operating activities 259.2 214.7
    Income tax paid (68.6) (30.0)
    Net cash flows from operating activities 190.6 184.6
         
    Cash flow from investing activities    
    Purchase of current financial assets                                     (0.7) (21.7)
    Redemption of current financial assets                                      5.7 18.6
    Purchase of property, plant and equipment                                    (6.8) 0.1
    Purchase of intangible assets (23.0) (16.4)
    Interest received 10.3 10.4
    Proceeds from sale of property, plant, equipment and intangible assets                                         – 0.1
    Net cash flow from investing activities (14.6) (8.9)
         
    Cash flow from financing activities    
    Interest paid (0.8) (0.2)
    Payment of lease liabilities (5.5) (5.5)
    Transactions in own shares (204.5) (2.1)
    Dividends paid to non-controlling interests – (0.3)
    Net cash flow from financing activities (210.8) (8.2)
         
    Total cash flow over the period (34.8) 167.6
    Cash and cash equivalents – Beginning of period 1,673.5 1,448.8
    Non-cash exchange gains/(losses) on cash and cash equivalents 3.6 (6.8)
    Cash and cash equivalents – End of period 1,642.3 1,609.6

    Volumes for the first quarter of 2025

    • Securities Services
    Euronext Securities activity Q1 2025 Q1 2024 % var
    Number of settlement instructions over the period 39,317,842 35,963,785 +9.3%
    Assets under Custody (in €bn), end of period 7,132 6,871 +3.8%
    • Capital Markets
      Q1 2025 Q1 2024 % var
    Number of trading days 63 63 –
    Listings      
    Number of Issuers on Equities      
    Euronext 1,786 1,860 -4.0%
    SMEs 1,397 1,463 -5.0%
    Number of Listed Securities      
    Funds 2,163 2,392 -10.0%
    ETFs 4,158 3,861 +8.0%
    Bonds 55,645 56,862 -2.0%
    Capital raised on primary and secondary market      
    Total Euronext, (€ million)      
    Number of new equity listings 8 10  
    Money Raised – New equity listings (including over-allotment) 237 156 +52.0%
    Money Raised – Follow-ons on equities 2,850 8,012 -64.0%
    Money Raised – Bonds 316,716 380,183 -17.0%
    Total Money Raised 319,803 388,352 -18.0%
    of which SMEs      
    Number of new equity listings 8 9  
    Money Raised – New equity listings (including over-allotment) 237 156 +52.0%
    Money Raised – Follow-ons on equities 1,278 4,957 -74.0%
    Money Raised – Bonds 396 478 -17.0%
    Total Money Raised 1,911 5,591 -66.0%
    • FICC Markets

    Fixed income trading

      Q1 2025 Q1 2024 % var
    Transaction value (€ million, single counted)      
    MTS      
    ADV MTS Cash 56,791 34,658 +64.0%
    TAADV MTS Repo 508,929 491,789 +3.0%
    Other fixed income      
    ADV Fixed income 1,932 1,744 +11.0%

    Fixed income clearing

    Number of transactions and lots cleared Q1 2025 Q1 2024 % var
    Bonds – Wholesale (nominal value in €bn – double counted) 8,160 7,392 +10.0%
    Bonds – Retail (number of contracts – double counted) 4,175,846 3,800,084 +10.0%

    Commodities markets

      Q1 2025 Q1 2024 % var
    Number of trading days              90 91 -1.1%
    Power volume (in TWh)      
    ADV Day-ahead Power Market          3.28 3.32 -1.2%
    ADV Intraday Power Market          0.43 0.29 +47.3%
      Q1 2025 Q1 2024 % var
    Number of trading days 63 63 –
    Derivatives Volume (in lots)      
    Commodity 7,886,335 7,193,909 +9.6%
    Futures 7,570,868 6,756,390 12.1%
    Options 315,467 437,519 -27.9%
    Derivatives ADV (in lots)      
    Commodity 125,180 114,189 9.6%
    Futures 120,173 107,244 12.1%
    Options 5,007 6,945 -27.9%
      31 March 2025 31 March 2024 % var
    Open interest (in lots)      
           
    Commodity 1,043,370 923,004 +13.0%
    Futures 841,449 584,361 +44.0%
    Options 201,921 338,643 -40.4%

    FX Markets

      Q1 2025 Q1 2024 % var
    Number of trading days 63 63 –
    FX volume ($m, single counted)      
    Total Euronext FX 1,856,742 1,583,472 +17.3%
    ADV Euronext FX 29,472 24,742 +19.1%
    • Equity Markets

    Cash trading

      Q1 2025 Q1 2024 % var
    Number of trading days 63 63 –
    Number of transactions (buy and sell)      
    Total Cash Market 188,721,610 152,340,714 +24.0%
    ADV Cash Market 2,995,581 2,418,107 +24.0%
    Transaction value (€ million, single counted)      
    Total Cash Market 867,015 657,688 +31.8%
    ADV Cash Market 13,762 10,439 +31.8%

    Cash clearing

    Number of transactions and lots cleared Q1 2025 Q1 2024 % var
    Shares (number of contracts – single counted) 76,849,676 58,446,470 +31.0%
    Derivatives (number of contracts – single counted) 42,112,910 5,823,089 +623.0%

    Financial derivatives markets

      Q1 2025 Q1 2024 % var
    Number of trading days 63 63 –
    Derivatives Volume (in lots)      
    Equity 34,226,575 32,815,066 +4.3%
    Index 11,889,419 12,477,980 -4.7%
    Futures 6,946,746 7,240,666 -4.1%
    Options 4,942,673 5,237,314 -5.6%
    Individual Equity 22,337,156 20,337,086 +9.8%
    Futures 489,757 574,911 -14.8%
    Options 21,847,399 19,762,175 +10.6%
           
    Derivatives ADV (in lots)      
    Equity 543,279 520,874 +4.3%
    Index 188,721 198,063 -4.7%
    Futures 110,266 114,931 -4.1%
    Options 78,455 83,132 -5.6%
    Individual Equity 354,558 322,811 +9.8%
    Futures 7,774 9,126 -14.8%
    Options 346,784 313,685 +10.6%
           
    Open interest (in lots) 31 March 2025 31 March 2024 % var
    Equity 23,589,360 21,831,754 +8.1%
    Index 1,052,853 878,571 +19.8%
    Futures 477,425 638,777 -25.3%
    Options 575,428 239,794 +140.0%
    Individual Equity 22,536,507 20,953,183 +7.6%
    Futures 165,404 564,408 -70.7%
    Options 22,371,103 20,388,775 +9.7%

    1www.euronext.com/en/media/13322/download
    2 Definition in Appendix – adjusted for non-underlying operating expenses excluding D&A and non-underlying revenue and income.
    3   Fixed income, commodities and currencies
    4 Last twelve months reported and adjusted EBITDA
    5 Like-for-like basis at constant currency
    6www.euronext.com/en/about/media/euronext-press-releases/euronext-launches-european-common-prospectus-accelerate-capital
    7www.euronext.com/en/about/media/euronext-press-releases/euronext-strengthens-its-support-for-european-strategic
    8www.euronext.com/en/about/media/euronext-press-releases/euronext-completes-acquisition-admincontrol
    9 Including revenue from power trading and clearing
    10 For the total adjustments performed please refer to the Appendix of this press release
    11 The cashflow related to the transaction will be communicated as part of Q2 2025 results
    12 Unaudited figures
    13www.euronext.com/en/about/media/euronext-press-releases/euronext-strengthens-its-support-for-european-strategic

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: IBCA Community Update, 14 May 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence

    IBCA Community Update, 14 May 2025

    Infected Blood Compensation Authority’s update that was circulated on 14 May 2025

    Documents

    IBCA Community Update, 14 May 2025

    HTML

    Details

    Infected Blood Compensation Authority’s update that was circulated on 14 May 2025.

    Updates to this page

    Published 14 May 2025

    Sign up for emails or print this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Two lizard-like creatures crossed tracks 355 million years ago. Today, their footprints yield a major discovery

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Long, Strategic Professor in Palaeontology, Flinders University

    Marcin Ambrozik

    The emergence of four-legged animals known as tetrapods was a key step in the evolution of many species today – including humans.

    Our new discovery, published today in Nature, details ancient fossil footprints found in Australia that upend the early evolution timeline of all tetrapods. It also suggests major parts of the story could have played out in the southern supercontinent of Gondwana.

    This fossil trackway whispers that we have been looking for the origin of modern tetrapods in the wrong time, and perhaps the wrong place.

    The first feet on land

    Tetrapods originated a long time ago in the Devonian period, when strange lobe-finned fishes began to haul themselves out of the water, probably around 390 million years ago.

    This ancestral stock later split into two main evolutionary lines. One led to modern amphibians, such as frogs and salamanders. The other led to amniotes, whose eggs contain amniotic membranes protecting the developing foetus.

    Today, amniotes include all reptiles, birds and mammals. They are by far the most successful tetrapod group, numbering more than 27,000 species of reptiles, birds and mammals.

    They have occupied every environment on land, have conquered the air, and many returned to the water in spectacularly successful fashion. But the fossil record shows the earliest members of this amniote group were small and looked rather like lizards. How did they emerge?

    The oldest known tetrapods have always been thought to be primitive fish-like forms like Acanthostega, barely capable of moving on land.

    Acanthostega, an early tetrapod that lived about 365 million years ago, was a member of the ancestral stock that gave rise to amphibians and amniotes.
    The authors

    Most scientists agree amphibians and amniotes separated at the start of the Carboniferous period, about 355 million years ago. Later in the period, the amniote lineage split further into the ancestors of mammals and reptiles-plus-birds.

    Now, this tidy picture falls apart.

    A curious trackway

    Key to our discovery is a 35 centimetre wide sandstone slab from Taungurung country, near Mansfield in eastern Victoria.

    The slab is covered with the footprints of clawed feet that can only belong to early amniotes, most probably reptiles. It pushes back the origin of the amniotes by at least 35 million years.

    Mansfield slab, dated between 359-350 million years old, showing positions of early reptile tracks.
    The authors

    Despite huge variations in size and shape, all amniotes have certain features in common. For one, if we have limbs with fingers and toes, these are almost always tipped with claws – or nails, in the case of humans.

    In other tetrapod groups, real claws don’t occur. Even claw-like, hardened toe tips seen in some amphibians are extremely rare.

    Claws usually leave obvious marks in footprints, providing a clue to whether a fossil footprint was made by an amniote.

    Close up showing the oldest known tracks with hooked claws from Mansfield, Victoria. Left, photo; right, optical scan.
    The authors

    The oldest clawed tracks

    The previous oldest fossil record of reptiles is based on footprints and bones from North America and Europe around 318 million years ago.

    The oldest record of reptile-like tracks in Europe is from Silesia in Poland, a new discovery also revealed in our paper. They are around 328 million years old.

    However, the Australian slab is much older than that, dated to between 359 and 350 million years old. It comes from the earliest part of the Carboniferous rock outcropping along the Broken River (Berrepit in the Taungurung language of the local First Nations people).

    This area has long been known for yielding many kinds of spectacular fossil fishes that lived in lakes and large rivers. Now, for the first time, we catch a glimpse of life on the riverbank.

    Fossil hunters search the Carboniferous red sandstone in the Mansfield area of Victoria. Such outcrops recently yielded the trackways of the world’s oldest reptile.
    John Long

    Two trackways of fossil footprints cross the slab’s upper surface, one of them overstepping an isolated footprint facing the opposite direction. The surface is covered with dimples made by raindrops, recording a brief shower just before the footprints were made. This proves the creatures were moving about on dry land.

    All the footprints show claw marks, some in the form of long scratches where the foot has been dragged along.

    The shape of the feet matches that of known early reptile tracks, so we are confident the footprints belong to an amniote. Our short animation below gives a reconstruction of the ancient environment around Mansfield 355 million years ago, and shows how the tracks were made.

    A short animation showing the creature making the tracks and its scientific significance. By Flinders University and Monkeystack Productions.

    Rewriting the timeline

    This find has a massive impact on the origin timeline of all tetrapods.

    If amniotes had already evolved by the earliest Carboniferous, as our fossil shows, the last common ancestor of amniotes and amphibians has to lie much further back in time, in the Devonian period.

    We can estimate the timing of the split by comparing the relative lengths of different branches in DNA-based family trees of living tetrapods. It suggests the split took place in the late Devonian, maybe as far back as 380 million years ago.

    This implies the late Devonian world was populated not just by primitive fish-like tetrapods, and intermediate “fishapods” like the famous Tiktaalik, but also by advanced forms including close relatives of the living lineages. So why haven’t we found their bones?

    The location of our slab provides a clue.

    Big evolutionary questions

    All other records of Carboniferous amniotes have come from the northern hemisphere ancient landmass called Euramerica that incorporated present-day North America and Europe. Euramerica also produced the great majority of Devonian tetrapod fossils.

    The new Australian fossils come from Gondwana, a gigantic southern continent that also contained Africa, South America, Antarctica and India.

    In all of this vast landmass, which stretched from the southern tropics down across the South Pole, our little slab is currently the only tetrapod fossil from the earliest part of the Carboniferous.

    The Devonian record is scarcely much better. The Gondwana fossil record of early tetrapods is shockingly incomplete, with enormous gaps that could conceal – well, just about anything.

    This find now raises a big evolutionary question. Did the first modern tetrapods, our own distant ancestors, emerge in the temperate Devonian landscapes of southern Gondwana, long before they spread to the sun-baked semi-deserts and steaming swamps of equatorial Euramerica?

    It’s quite possible. Only more fieldwork, bringing to light new discoveries of Devonian and Carboniferous fossils from the old Gondwana continents, might one day answer that question.

    We acknowledge the Taungurung people of Mansfield area where this scientific work has taken place.

    John Long receives funding from the Australian Research Council.

    Grzegorz Niedzwiedzki receives funding from the Swedish Research Council and the European Research Council.

    Per Ahlberg receives funding from the European Research Council and the Knut & Alice Wallenberg Foundation.

    – ref. Two lizard-like creatures crossed tracks 355 million years ago. Today, their footprints yield a major discovery – https://theconversation.com/two-lizard-like-creatures-crossed-tracks-355-million-years-ago-today-their-footprints-yield-a-major-discovery-254301

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Security: UPDATE: Warrant of further detention granted

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    UPDATE On Wednesday, 14 May, a warrant of further detention was obtained at Westminster Magistrates’ Court, meaning the man can be detained for an additional 36 hours.

    +++

    A man arrested in connection with a series of arson attacks remains in police custody.

    The 21-year-old was arrested in the early hours of Tuesday, 13 May on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.

    He was arrested at an address in Sydenham.

    The man was taken to a London police station, where he currently remains in police custody.

    The arrest relates to three incidents.

    On Monday, 12 May at 01:35hrs, police were alerted by the London Fire Brigade to reports of a fire at a residential address in NW5.

    Officers attended the scene. Damage was caused to the property’s entrance, nobody was hurt.

    As a precaution and due to the property having previous connections with a high-profile public figure, officers from the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command are leading the investigation into this fire. Enquiries are ongoing to establish what caused it.

    The investigation team are also considering two other incidents – a vehicle fire in NW5 on Thursday, 8 May and a fire at the entrance of a property in N7 on Sunday, 11 May – and are investigating whether they may be linked to the fire in NW5 on 12 May.

    All three fires are being treated as suspicious at this time, and enquiries remain ongoing.

    Commander Dominic Murphy, Head of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command, said: “We are working at pace and continue to explore various lines of enquiry to establish the cause of the fires, and any potential motivation for these. A key line of enquiry is whether the fires are linked due to the two premises and the vehicle all having previous links to the same high-profile public figure.

    “We recognise that this investigation may cause concern to other public figures – particularly MPs. The protection of MPs is something we take extremely seriously across the whole of policing and I would encourage any MP who is concerned about their own safety to get in touch with their dedicated local Operation Bridger officer, who can provide further advice and support.

    “In the meantime, our investigation remains ongoing and we will continue to work closely with local officers in the areas affected. Residents can expect to see an increased police presence in those areas over the coming days, but if anyone has concerns, then please speak with a local officer, or call us.”

    Anyone with information that could assist the investigation should call police on 101 quoting CAD 441/12 May.

    We would ask the public to remain vigilant and if they see or hear anything that doesn’t look or feel right, then to report it to police – either by calling police, in confidence, on 0800 789 321 or via www.gov.uk/ACT

    In an emergency, always dial 999.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The UK remains committed to restoring freedom of navigation and maritime security in the Red Sea: UK statement at the UN Security Council

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    The UK remains committed to restoring freedom of navigation and maritime security in the Red Sea: UK statement at the UN Security Council

    Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Yemen.

    First, the UK remains committed to restoring freedom of navigation and maritime security in the Red Sea. 

    We welcome recent efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region and we hope these efforts can help provide the pathway to sustainable peace in Yemen in line with the Special Envoy’s efforts.

    As we have seen with continued threats against neighbouring countries and worrying posturing on the frontlines in Yemen, the risk of escalation remains. 

    Through a coordinated international approach, the UK will continue to work towards effectively containing Houthi capabilities.

    Maritime security is essential in upholding stability in the region. 

    The UK continues to support the Yemen Coast Guard in protecting their maritime borders, and we look forward to launching the Yemen Maritime Security Partnership alongside the Government of Yemen and international partners in June.

    Second, as highlighted by Ms El Mamoun, women face a disproportionate impact from the conflict in Yemen. 

    In 2023, Yemen ranked second-to-last in the Georgetown Institute’s Women, Peace and Security Index, and we have not seen progress since then. 

    According to the Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan, most of the 4.8 million internally displaced people are women, and 6.2 million women and girls are at risk of gender-based violence.

    Last year, UK funding supported nearly 1.5 million women and children with essential lifesaving services and enabled 15,000 to receive protection and gender-based violence response services. 

    The UK continues to champion the important role that women can play in both ending the conflict in Yemen and upholding sustainable peace. 

    In November 2024, the UK hosted a group of Yemeni women leaders and experts on the women, peace and security agenda to provide a vital platform for these important voices.

    The UK also remains committed to supporting the UN Special Envoy’s work to meaningfully engage women activists and women-led organisations to deliver inclusive and sustainable peace in Yemen.

    Third, President, as USG Fletcher has said, the humanitarian situation is severe. 

    The UK continues to condemn the ongoing detentions of aid workers by the Houthis, and we reiterate our clear call for the immediate and unconditional release of all those detained.

    The Houthis’ unjustified detention of aid workers continues to shrink the humanitarian operating environment in a context where nearly 20 million people are in dire need of humanitarian assistance.

    And finally, we are grateful for the efforts of Dr Ahmad bin Mubarak, the former Prime Minister of Yemen, and we welcome the new Prime Minister, Salem Bin Breik. 

    We look forward to working together with the new Prime Minister and continuing our support to the Government of Yemen’s ambitious reform programme.

    Updates to this page

    Published 14 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to systematic review and meta- analysis on GLP-1 receptor agonists and mental health

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A systematic review published in JAMA Psychiatry looks at weight loss drugs (GLP-1 receptor agonists) and mental health.

    Prof Stella Chan, Charlie Waller Chair in Evidence-based Psychological Treatment, University of Reading, said:

    “This is a robustly conducted systematic review and meta-analysis, reporting the encouraging findings that these drugs improve quality of life in patients with obesity and diabetes. While it is positive to note that the drugs do not appear to increase the risk for psychiatric illnesses, as the authors noted, the findings were primarily based on clinical trials that excluded patients with psychiatric symptoms and that the range of mental health outcomes was limited. As such, the findings should be taken to indicate preliminary evidence that these drugs are safe, but that more research is needed to draw definitive conclusions.”

     

    Dr Paul Keedwell, Consultant Psychiatrist and Fellow of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, said:

    “This study helps to settle an ongoing debate about how popular weight-loss drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro might affect mental health. By analysing data from over 100,000 people in well-run clinical trials, the researchers found no signs that these drugs increase the risk of depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts. 

    “Rather, some people reported feeling slightly better emotionally while taking them—likely because of the benefits of weight loss and improved physical health. This is consistent with a previous review which indicated a mood boosting effect of these drugs.

    “However, there is an important caveat. By design, people with a history of mental health problems were invariably excluded from the studies that were analysed. So the findings may not apply to everyone.

    “There have been some case reports where people with previous depression or anxiety said the drugs made their symptoms worse, possibly by affecting parts of the brain linked to pleasure and motivation.

    “A large study based on 160,000 real-world medical records showed that people taking GLP-1 drugs were nearly twice as likely to experience depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts compared to those not taking them. The difference was that people with a history of mental health problems were not excluded.

    “So for most people, these drugs seem mentally safe—and may even help mood—but for those with a history of mental illness, there may be a risk. More research is needed, and anyone with past mental health issues should speak with a doctor before starting them.”

     

    ‘Glucagon-Like Peptide 1 Receptor Agonists and Mental Health’ by Aueliane C. S. Pierret et al. was published in JAMA Psychiatry at 16:00 UK time on Wednesday 14 May. 

     

    DOI: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2025.0679

     

     

    Declared interests

    Prof Stella Chan: No conflict of Interest.

    Dr Paul Keedwell: No conflicts of interest.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayfair resident ordered to restore 18th century home after unlawful basement works | Westminster City Council

    Source: City of Westminster

    Westminster City Council has successfully defended an appeal against enforcement action by the owner of a three-storey town house in Mayfair, who carried out unauthorised works to the Grade II listed building.   

    The owner’s application for listed building consent to create a sub-basement was originally refused in 2010 after the Planning Inspectorate agreed with the council that it would harm the building’s special architectural and historic interest.   

    In 2020, the council’s Planning Enforcement Team discovered that the owners had ignored this ruling and had excavated the existing basement to enlarge it and also created a large sub-basement underneath.   

    Their investigations showed the owner had also carried out extensive unauthorised alterations to all other floors of the Grade II listed building, altering floor and ceiling heights, altering fireplaces, concealing and removing historic wood panelling, joinery and cornices, and installing air conditioning units to the rear of the property.   

    In February 2023, the council served a listed building enforcement notice requiring the removal of the unacceptable unauthorised works, including the infilling of the sub-basement and the restoration of the floor levels of the original basement.    

    The owner of the property appealed the notice, however, the Planning Inspectorate have now dismissed that appeal, again finding that the works were wholly unacceptable. The owner will now have to restore the Grade II listed building and the Planning Inspectorate also made a partial award of costs to the council for the costs incurred.    

    Cllr Geoff Barraclough, Westminster City Council Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development, said:     

    “I hope this outcome sends a clear message: those who ignore planning rules will be held accountable. It is simply not acceptable to carry out works that have been explicitly refused listed building consent. The owner showed a complete disregard for both our decision and the historic significance of this property. We remain committed to safeguarding Westminster’s unique architectural heritage.”

    The Listed Building Enforcement Notice can be found at the following link on the Council’s website:

    https://idoxpa.westminster.gov.uk/online-applications/enforcementDetails.do?activeTab=documents&keyVal=LMU4ZKRP17K00

    The appeal documents, including the Appeal and Costs Decision can be found here:

    23/00039/ENFHB | Appeal against | 74 Park Street London W1K 2JX

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Africa’s Oil Frontiers Urged to Accelerate Development at Invest in African Energy (IAE) 2025

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

    PARIS, France, May 14, 2025/APO Group/ —

    African oil and gas markets must act swiftly to turn exploration wins into production success if they hope to emulate the rapid energy transformation seen in Guyana. This was the consensus from panelists speaking on the Exploring New Territories: Technology Innovation in African E&P panel at the Invest in African Energy Forum in Paris on Tuesday.

    “My advice to Namibia is to capture the moment and do whatever you can to support companies, in terms of an enabling environment, to develop and produce. Great exploration success is nothing if it’s not produced,” said Gil Holzman, CEO of Eco (Atlantic) Oil & Gas.

    Eco (Atlantic) has been active in Namibia since 2009 and currently holds four blocks in the Walvis Basin, along with Block 3B/4B in the Orange Basin, where it plans to drill a first exploration well by the end of this year or early 2026 with its joint venture partners. Last year, the company also acquired a 75% operating stake in Block 1 in the Orange Basin.

    Referencing Guyana’s path to production, where over 13 billion barrels have been discovered and output is expected to reach one million barrels per day by 2026, Holzman noted: “Proximity to the U.S. and the fact that Guyana didn’t have existing infrastructure opened the door for international companies to set the tone – in line with PSCs – to bring in technology and expertise.”

    Drawing clear parallels between international success stories and emerging opportunities in Africa, Jean-Marc Kloss, Managing Director for West Africa at SLB, emphasized the role of global collaboration and talent mobility in accelerating project timelines.

    “Fast-tracking development in Africa is possible,” he said. “From exploration to discovery to drilling, there is a lot of learning, technology and people that we have brought in from Guyana. We are in a global environment.”

    He pointed to Brazil and Nigeria to underscore Africa’s untapped potential and the need for greater project sanctioning. “Brazil has 30 deepwater rigs – Nigeria has one. Brazil has 54 FPSOs – Nigeria has 14. There is huge potential, unbelievable resources in Africa,” Kloss said. “There has been no sanction of a deepwater project in years – the first one was the $5 billion [UTM FLNG facility] last year.”

    Arthur Ename, Vice President, Global Accounts, Africa at NOV, emphasized the difference between drilling success and actual resource monetization.

    “It’s one thing to drill – it’s another to produce the reserve that is underground. Eni did extremely well with [the Baleine project in Ivory Coast] by bringing infrastructure in-country that allowed them to start production very fast.”

    Moderated by Justin Cochrane, Director of African Regional Research at S&P Global Commodity Insights, the panel made clear that while Africa has entered a promising new chapter in exploration, translating that promise into value will depend on swift regulatory decisions, infrastructure planning and technology transfer.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: TotalEnergies’ Mike Sangster Talks Multi-Energy Strategy at Invest in African Energy (IAE) 2025

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

    PARIS, France, May 14, 2025/APO Group/ —

    Mike Sangster, Senior Vice President for Africa at TotalEnergies, outlined the company’s multi-energy strategy in Africa at the Invest in African Energy (IAE) 2025 Forum in Paris. Speaking during a one-on-one conversation with America Hernandez, Energy Correspondent at Reuters, Sangster said that the company is committed to producing more energy in a sustainable manner.

    In the oil sector, TotalEnergies continues to invest in established markets such as the Republic of Congo and Angola as well as in emerging markets such as Namibia, Uganda and South Africa. According to Sangster, TotalEnergies’ African portfolio constitutes half of the company’s operated production globally. “The largest part of our exploration budget is also in Africa,” he said.

    In South Africa, the company hopes to start drilling in 2026. The company is currently awaiting the requisite permits. In Namibia, the company is spearheading efforts to produce first oil by 2029 through its Venus project. A field development plan is currently underway, with plans to make a final investment decision by Q4, 2026. Given the complexity of the deepwater project, Venus will target oil production.

    “The site is extremely remote, 300 km offshore and at a depth of 1,900 m,” Sangster said, highlighting that much of the associated gas discovered would need to be reinjected.

    Monetizing Africa’s natural gas resources through LNG deployment and flare reduction represents a core part of TotalEnergies’ African strategy. “Part of our growth target is focused on LNG,” Sangster stated, adding that “we finished routine flaring in Nigeria, Gabon and Angola. In the Republic of Congo, we will eliminate flaring this year.”

    In Nigeria, TotalEnergies is ramping up gas investments to support both local energy needs and exports. “It’s important to monetize gas and its reservoirs,” Sangster noted. “In Nigeria, there are significant reserves and we are actively developing this sector. There are high-quality fields that can also serve export markets.”

    Beyond oil and gas investments, TotalEnergies’ broader energy strategy includes the development of renewable energy projects. Sangster reiterated TotalEnergies’ rebranding from an oil major to a multi-energy company, stating that “It makes sense to expand integrated energy activities. We have invested in renewables, green hydrogen and even mining in Africa. The future of our industry is integrated energy combined with new technologies to meet growing demand sustainably.”  

    Meanwhile, TotalEnergies is committed to supporting capacity building across the markets in which it operates. Sangster explained that through projects such as Tilenga, TotalEnergies “has generated around 20,000 direct jobs in Uganda and Tanzania. We are also training 200 local people. These are high-paying jobs that will be there for the next 20 years.”

    In Nigeria, TotalEnergies works closely with local educational institutions to transfer skills and enhance capacity building. “In Nigeria, we have the Petroleum Institute, and we’re fully committed to developing [capacity] in the country,” Sangster said. These initiatives not only support the development of projects, but create tangible opportunities for local communities. 

    MIL OSI Africa –