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  • MIL-OSI USA: OSTP Issues Agency Guidance for Gold Standard Science

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Whitehouse
    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, as called for in President Trump’s recent Executive Order, White House Office of Science and Technology Policy Director Michael Kratsios issued guidance to federal agencies on incorporating Gold Standard Science tenets into their research activities.  
    The EO directs federal research agencies to establish and strengthen practices related to reproducibility, transparency, falsifiability, interdisciplinary research, and merit-based peer review, as well as communicating uncertainties, recognizing negative or null results, and disclosing conflicts on interests. Within 60 days, agencies are required to report back publicly on relevant initiatives, including how Gold Standard Science is reflected in the agency’s culture, funding opportunities, award selection and reporting, and other research activities.
    “President Trump’s Gold Standard Science EO will transform the conduct and management of federal science, from research design to public communication, in order to strengthen scientific inquiry, rebuild public trust, and ensure the U.S. continues to be the global leader in rigorous, evidence-based science,” said Director Kratsios. “But federal agencies are only one part of our nation’s research ecosystem. American universities, scientific journals, industry and philanthropic leaders all have a crucial role in improving the overall quality of research, and we encourage this executive action to serve as a model for the entire scientific enterprise.”
    In the memo, Director Kratsios says that “the need for Gold Standard Science stems from the crucial role of scientific integrity in tackling complex challenges to address critical areas, such as energy innovation and national security. In an age of rapid technological progress and heightened public scrutiny, federal science, and its use in federal decision making, must be beyond reproach.”
    President Trump is ushering in the Golden Age of American Innovation and is committed to maintaining our global technological dominance. However, first the relationship between the public and the scientific community must be rebuilt. President Trump’s Restoring Gold Standard Science Executive Order provides a new standard and plan to improve the federal scientific enterprise.
    Read the memo HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Bear Creek Fire in Alaska

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency 2

    strong>BOTHELL, Wash. –  The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Bear Creek Fire burning in the Denali Borough, Alaska. 
    The state of Alaska’s request for a declaration under FEMA’s Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) program was approved by FEMA Region 10 Acting Administrator Vincent J. Maykovich on Monday, June 23, 2025, at 3:33 a.m. PT. He determined that the Bear Creek Fire threatened to cause such destruction as would constitute a major disaster. This is the first FMAG declaration in 2025 to help fight Alaska wildfires. 
    At the time of the state’s request, the wildfire threatened homes in and around the communities of Healy, Ferry, Clear and Anderson, as well as the Clear Space Force Base. The fire was also threatening highways, electrical utilities, parks, commercial sites, a watershed, fishing streams and spawning sites, wildlife, and environmental and cultural resources. 
    FMAGs make funding available to pay up to 75 percent of a state’s eligible firefighting costs for fires that threaten to become major disasters. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies and mobilization and demobilization activities attributed to fighting the fire. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Fire Management Assistance Grant Approved for Conner Fire

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FEMA Fire Management Assistance Grant Approved for Conner Fire

    FEMA Fire Management Assistance Grant Approved for Conner Fire

    Oakland, Calif

     – The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Region 9 Administrator authorized the use of federal funds to assist the State of Nevada in combating the Conner Fire burning in Douglas County

    On June 20, 2025, the State of Nevada submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) program declaration for the Conner Fire

    At the time of the request, the fire was threatening approximately 280 homes in and around the Washoe Tribal lands (Bodie Flats, Carter Springs, NV)

    The fire is also threatening electrical/telecom distribution lines and the tribal water well

    FMAGs provide federal funding for up to 75 percent of eligible firefighting costs

     The Disaster Relief Fund provides allowances for FMAGs through FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to become major incidents

    Eligible costs covered by FMAGs can include expenses for field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies and mobilization, and demobilization activities attributed to fighting the fire

    For more information on FMAGs, visit fema

    gov/assistance/public/fire-management-assistance

    eileen

    chao
    Mon, 06/23/2025 – 17:23

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Fosters Innovative, Far-Out Tech for the Future of Aerospace

    Source: NASA

    Through the NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts (NIAC) program, NASA nurtures visionary yet credible concepts that could one day “change the possible” in aerospace, while engaging America’s innovators and entrepreneurs as partners in the journey.  
    These concepts span various disciplines and aim to advance capabilities such as finding resources on distant planets, making space travel safer and more efficient, and even providing benefits to life here on Earth. The NIAC portfolio of studies also includes several solutions and technologies that could help NASA achieve a future human presence on Mars. One concept at a time, NIAC is taking technology concepts from science fiction to reality.  
    Breathing beyond Earth 
    Astronauts have a limited supply of water and oxygen in space, which makes producing and maintaining these resources extremely valuable. One NIAC study investigates a system to separate oxygen and hydrogen gas bubbles in microgravity from water, without touching the water directly. Researchers found the concept can handle power changes, requires less clean water, works in a wide range of temperatures, and is more resistant to bacteria than existing oxygen generation systems for short-term crewed missions. These new developments could make it a great fit for a long trip to Mars.  
    Newly selected for another phase of study, the team wants to understand how the system will perform over long periods in space and consider ways to simplify the system’s build. They plan to test a large version of the system in microgravity in hopes of proving how it may be a game changer for future missions. 
    Detoxifying water on Mars
    Unlike water on Earth, Mars’ water is contaminated with toxic chemical compounds such as perchlorates and chlorates. These contaminants threaten human health even at tiny concentrations and can easily corrode hardware and equipment. Finding a way to remove contaminates from water will benefit future human explorers and prepare them to live on Mars long term. 
    Researchers are creating a regenerative perchlorate reduction system that uses perchlorate reduction pathways from naturally occurring bacteria. Perchlorate is a compound comprised of oxygen and chlorine that is typically used for rocket propellant. These perchlorate reduction pathways can be engineered into a type of bacterium that is known for its remarkable resilience, even in the harsh conditions of space. The system would use these enzymes to cause the biochemical reduction of chlorate and perchlorate to chloride and oxygen, eliminating these toxic molecules from the water. With the technology to detoxify water on Mars, humans could thrive on the Red Planet with an abundant water supply. 
    Tackling deep space radiation exposure 
    Mitochondria are the small structures within cells often called the “powerhouse,” but what if they could also power human health in space? Chronic radiation exposure is among the many threats to long-term human stays in space, including time spent traveling to and from Mars. One NIAC study explores transplanting new, undamaged mitochondria to radiation-damaged cells and investigates cell responses to relevant radiation levels to simulate deep-space travel. Researchers propose using in vitro human cell models – complex 3D structures grown in a lab to mimic aspects of organs – to demonstrate how targeted mitochondria replacement therapy could regenerate cellular function after acute and long-term radiation exposure.  
    While still in early stages, the research could help significantly reduce radiation risks for crewed missions to Mars and beyond. Here on Earth, the technology could also help treat a wide variety of age-related degenerative diseases associated with mitochondrial dysfunction. 
    Suiting up for Mars 
    Mars is no “walk in the park,” which is why specialized spacesuits are essential for future missions. Engineers propose using a digital template to generate custom, cost-effective, high-performance spacesuits. This spacesuit concept uses something called digital thread technology to protect crewmembers from the extreme Martian environment, while providing the mobility to perform daily Mars exploration endeavors, including scientific excursions. 
    This now completed NIAC study focused on mapping key spacesuit components and current manufacturing technologies to digital components, identifying technology gaps, benchmarking required capabilities, and developing a conceptional digital thread model for future spacesuit development and operational support. This research could help astronauts suit up for Mars and beyond in a way like never before.   
    Redefining what’s possible 
    From studying Mars to researching black holes and monitoring the atmosphere of Venus, NIAC concepts help us push the boundaries of exploration. By collaborating with innovators and entrepreneurs, NASA advances concepts for future and current missions while energizing the space economy.  
    If you have a visionary idea to share, you can apply to NIAC’s 2026 Phase I solicitation now until July 15.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: June Federal Grand Jury 2024-B Indictments Announced

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    United States Attorney Clint Johnson today announced the results of the June Federal Grand Jury 2024-B Indictments.

    The following individuals have been charged with violations of United States law in indictments returned by the Grand Jury. The return of an indictment is a method of informing a defendant of alleged violations of federal law, which must be proven in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt to overcome a defendant’s presumption of innocence.

    Alejandro Aldave. Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute (Counts 1 and 2); Possession of 3,4-Dichloro-N-[2-(dimethylamino)cyclohexyl]-N-methylbenzamide (U47700”) with Intent to Distribute (Count 3); Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises (Count 4); Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking Crime (Count 5) (superseding). Aldave, 36, of Tulsa, is charged with two counts of possessing more than 500 grams of cocaine and one count of possessing 3,4-Dichloro-N-[2-(dimethylamino)cyclohexyl]-N-methylbenzamide (U47700”) with intent to distribute. He is additionally charged with maintaining a residence to distribute cocaine and 3,4-Dichloro-N-[2-(dimethylamino)cyclohexyl]-N-methylbenzamide (U47700”). Lastly, Aldave knowingly possessed a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. The Drug Enforcement Administration Tulsa Resident Office, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam D. McConney is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-173

    Roman Ramos Chacon. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Chacon, 27, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been previously removed in Oct. 2023. ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Dallas Field Office is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Scaife is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-206

    Jesus Reyes Chi. Alien Unlawfully in the United States in Possession of Firearms. Reyes Chi, 36, a Mexican national, is charged with possessing firearms knowing he was an alien unlawfully living in the United States. ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Dallas Field Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Jolly is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-207

    Jose Guadalupe Peralez Diaz. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Peralez Diaz, 43, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been previously removed in Apr. 2022. ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Dallas Field Office is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Whipple is prosecuting the case. 
    25-CR-208

    Brandon Eugene Fanning. Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition. Fanning, 47, of Wyandotte, is charged with possessing a firearm and ammunition, knowing he was previously convicted of felonies. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Shakema Onias is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-219

    Cruz De Jesus Garcia-Dimas. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Garcia-Dimas, 34, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been previously removed in Mar. 2012. ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Dallas Field Office is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Augustus Forster is prosecuting the case. 
    25-CR-209

    Jason Dewayne Glass; Justin Monrow Wilson. Aggravated Sexual Abuse by Force and Threat in Indian Country (Count 1); Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country (Counts 2 through 4); Carrying, Using, and Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence (Count 5); Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute (Count 6); Carrying and Using a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime (Count 7) Maintaining a Durg-Involved Premises (Count 8) Felon in Possession of Firearms and Ammunition (Counts 9 & 10). Glass, 41, of Locust Grove, is charged with engaging in a sexual act by force and threat. He is charged with intentionally assaulting a victim with a firearm, a propane torch, a knife, and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. Wilson, 49, of Locust Grove, and Glass are jointly charged with knowingly possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possessing a firearm during and in relation to drug trafficking, and maintaining a drug house. Additionally, Glass and Willson are charged with possessing numerous firearms and ammunition, knowing they had previously been convicted of several felonies. The FBI, the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service, and the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stacey Todd is prosecuting the case. 
    25-CR-220

    Kiaona Richelle Hill. Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition. Hill, 43, of Tulsa, is charged with possessing a firearm and ammunition, knowing she was previously convicted of felonies. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tara Heign and Eric O. Johnston are prosecuting the case. 25-CR-211

    Bradley Justin Kelley. Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition; Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute; Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises; Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime; Eluding Police Officers in Indian Country. Kelley, 35, of Tulsa, is charged with possessing a firearm and ammunition, knowing he was previously convicted of felonies, and possessing a firearm while drug trafficking. Kelley is further charged with maintaining a residence for drug distribution and possessing more than 500 grams of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. Additionally, Kelley is charged with failing to bring his vehicle to a stop after being directed by a peace officer in an official vehicle with a red light and siren. The Drug Enforcement Administration Tulsa Resident Office and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Nasar is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-203

    Jorge Luis Garcia-Lopez. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Garcia-Lopez, 27, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been previously removed in May 2021. ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Dallas Field Office is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Flynn is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-210

    Arturo Hidalgo Luna. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Luna, 59, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been previously removed in Feb. 2003. ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Dallas Field Office is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christian Harris is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-212

    Jason Allen Lynn. Second Degree Murder in Indian Country. Lynn, 31, a transient and a member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, is charged with intending to kill Alan Underwood without premeditation and deliberation, but with intent to do serious bodily harm. The FBI and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth Elmore is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-204

    Cale Michael Mitchell Persinger. Assault of a Spouse by Strangling and Attempting to Strangle in Indian Country. Persinger, 25, of Tulsa and a member of the Osage Nation, is charged with assaulting his spouse by strangling her. The FBI and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa Weems is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-221

    Austin Dewayne Nation. Use of a Communication Facility in Committing, Causing, and Facilitating the Commission of a Drug Trafficking Felony; Attempted Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute; Felon in Possession of Firearms; Possession of Firearms in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime. Nation, 29, of Kellyville, is charged with attempting to possess and distribute methamphetamine received through the mail. He is further charged with attempting to possess methamphetamine with the intent to distribute. Additionally, Nation is charged with possessing a firearm and ammunition, knowing he was previously convicted of felonies and possessing a firearm while attempting to traffic drugs. The Drug Enforcement Administration Tulsa Resident Office and the USPS-OIG are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tyson McCoy is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-213

    Bryan Omar Orozxo-Cahuex. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Orozxo-Cahuex, 30, a Guatemalan national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been previously removed in Dec. 2017. ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Dallas Field Office is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Jolly is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-214

    Jose Pacheco-Quezada. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Pacheco-Quezada, 24, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been previously removed in Apr. 2019. ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Dallas Field Office is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Ihler is prosecuting the case. 
    25-CR-215

    Silvia Nicole Ramos-Ramos. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Ramos-Ramos, 23, a Honduran national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been previously removed in Jun. 2023. ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Dallas Field Office is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Bailey is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-216

    Marissa Ayde Ruiz. Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute; Carrying a Firearm in Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime. Ruiz, 33, of Amarillo, Texas, is charged with knowingly possessing more than 500 grams of cocaine with intent to distribute and carrying a firearm while drug trafficking. The Homeland Security Investigations and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Bailey is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-205

    Allan Segovia. Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute. Segovia, 42, of Tulsa, is charged with knowingly possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute. The Drug Enforcement Administration Tulsa Resident Office, the Tulsa Police Department, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Attila Bogdan is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-222

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Indianapolis Man Sentenced After Being Caught with Three Firearms and Two Machine Gun Conversion Devices While Out on Bond

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    INDIANAPOLIS— Q’Tez Laquan Ginn, 19, of Indianapolis, has been sentenced to 61 months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release after pleading guilty to possession of a machine gun.

    Machine gun conversion devices, sometimes called “Glock switches” or “auto-sears,” are devices that convert ordinary semiautomatic firearms into fully automatic machine guns. Machine gun conversion devices are themselves considered machine guns under federal law, even when not installed, and are illegal for individuals to possess or sell.

    According to court documents, in August of 2024, Ginn was seen carrying an AR style pistol in a parking lot where suspected narcotics trafficking was taking place.  Later that day, IMPD officers found Ginn in a vehicle with marijuana and a pistol. Ginn was charged with felony dealing marijuana and taken into custody. At the time of this arrest, Ginn was out on bond for a felony Resisting Law Enforcement charge in Marion County.

    While in custody, Ginn made phone calls to family members, directing them to move and store his firearms and controlled substances at a home known to the family. Ginn continued to exert control over the items while he was incarcerated.

    In September of 2024, law enforcement officers conducted a judicially authorized search at the home and located a black duffel bag that contained a Glock handgun, two AR-style pistols, and multiple magazines, including two loaded high-capacity drum-style magazines.  The Glock handgun and one of the AR-style pistols were found with machine gun conversion devices installed on them.

    “Machine gun conversion devices only exacerbate the already dire situation of individuals using firearms for violent purposes. In a city already overwhelmed by gun violence, these devices contribute to further instability for community members and law enforcement,” said John E. Childress, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “I commend the IMPD and ATF for their steadfast dedication to addressing gun violence in our community.”

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and IMPD investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by Chief U.S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Pamela Domash, who prosecuted this case.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UN Charter, Secretary-General/Syria, Iran & other topics – Daily Press Briefing (23June 2025)

    Source: United Nations (video statements)

    Noon Briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    ———————————

    Highlights:
    UN Charter
    Secretary-General/Syria
    Iran
    Central African Republic
    Occupied Palestinian Territory
    Lebanon
    Democratic Republic of the Congo
    Sudan
    Ukraine
    Haiti
    Security Council
    Climate in Asia
    Internet Governance Forum
    Senior Personnel Appointment
    Resident Coordinators
    International Days
    Office for Disarmament Affairs
    Briefings

    __________________________________________

    UN CHARTER
    Today, at 5:00 p.m., the Secretary-General will deliver remarks at a ceremony to welcome home the original UN Charter, 80 years after it was adopted.
    He will make remarks and point out that the Charter is more than parchment and ink; it is a promise of peace, a promise of dignity and cooperation among nations.
    He will say that today, as our world faces age-old challenges, and newer threats like the climate crisis and runaway technology, we have the tools and the norms of international law to guide us, starting with that Charter.

    SECRETARY-GENERAL/SYRIA
    In a statement issued today, the Secretary-General strongly condemned the terrorist attacks that took place on Sunday at the St. Elias Church in Damascus. He expressed his deepest condolences to the families of the victims and wishes a swift recovery to those injured.
    The Secretary-General reiterated that all perpetrators of terrorism must be held accountable. He took note that the Syrian interim authorities have condemned this attack and, after a preliminary investigation, attributed it to Islamic State of Iraq and Levant, ISIL. The Secretary-General called for a full investigation.
    The Secretary-General reaffirmed the commitment of the United Nations to supporting the Syrian people in their pursuit of peace, of dignity, and justice.
    Geir Pederson, the Special Envoy in Syria, also issued a statement on the same attack.

    Full Highlights:
    https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=23%20June%202025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NPeVJl4i2rA

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UN Charter, Secretary-General/Syria, Iran & other topics – Daily Press Briefing (23June 2025)

    Source: United Nations (video statements)

    Noon Briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    ———————————

    Highlights:
    UN Charter
    Secretary-General/Syria
    Iran
    Central African Republic
    Occupied Palestinian Territory
    Lebanon
    Democratic Republic of the Congo
    Sudan
    Ukraine
    Haiti
    Security Council
    Climate in Asia
    Internet Governance Forum
    Senior Personnel Appointment
    Resident Coordinators
    International Days
    Office for Disarmament Affairs
    Briefings

    __________________________________________

    UN CHARTER
    Today, at 5:00 p.m., the Secretary-General will deliver remarks at a ceremony to welcome home the original UN Charter, 80 years after it was adopted.
    He will make remarks and point out that the Charter is more than parchment and ink; it is a promise of peace, a promise of dignity and cooperation among nations.
    He will say that today, as our world faces age-old challenges, and newer threats like the climate crisis and runaway technology, we have the tools and the norms of international law to guide us, starting with that Charter.

    SECRETARY-GENERAL/SYRIA
    In a statement issued today, the Secretary-General strongly condemned the terrorist attacks that took place on Sunday at the St. Elias Church in Damascus. He expressed his deepest condolences to the families of the victims and wishes a swift recovery to those injured.
    The Secretary-General reiterated that all perpetrators of terrorism must be held accountable. He took note that the Syrian interim authorities have condemned this attack and, after a preliminary investigation, attributed it to Islamic State of Iraq and Levant, ISIL. The Secretary-General called for a full investigation.
    The Secretary-General reaffirmed the commitment of the United Nations to supporting the Syrian people in their pursuit of peace, of dignity, and justice.
    Geir Pederson, the Special Envoy in Syria, also issued a statement on the same attack.

    Full Highlights:
    https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=23%20June%202025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NPeVJl4i2rA

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo, Scott and GOP Colleagues Lead Effort to Strengthen Review of Foreign Land Purchases Near Sensitive U.S. Military Sites

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) joined Senate Banking Committee Chairman Tim Scott (R-South Carolina) in an effort to strengthen national security by ensuring the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) can effectively review foreign land purchases near sensitive military, intelligence and national laboratory sites.

    “We must protect sensitive military and government sites from foreign adversaries pursuing intelligence activities on our own land,” said Senator Crapo.  “Idaho has multiple military installations and the acclaimed Idaho National Laboratory conducting vital research, development and training of critical national security efforts right here in our backyard, and increasing accountability about land sales around these sites is of utmost importance.”

    The Protect Our Bases Act, introduced by Senators Crapo, Scott, Mike Rounds (R-South Dakota), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina), John Kennedy (R-Louisiana), Bill Hagerty (R-Tennessee), Katie Britt (R-Alabama), Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska), Jim Banks (R-Indiana), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio) and Dave McCormick (R-Pennsylvania), would require CFIUS member agencies to annually update records of the military, intelligence and national laboratory facilities that should be designated as sensitive sites for national security purposes.  

    “The Chinese Communist Party’s efforts to infiltrate and surveil all parts of the U.S national security apparatus requires vigilance from our national security agencies.  This legislation will enhance the review of foreign real estate transactions near critical national security installations, helping ensure CFIUS has the information it needs to protect our homeland and keep our nation safe,” said Chairman Scott.

    “We must address the growing threat from the Chinese Communist Party and other hostile regimes trying to get close to our most sensitive military and intelligence sites,” said Senator Tillis.  “The Protect Our Bases Act ensures the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States has the most up-to-date information on key U.S. national security locations so dangerous land purchases can be blocked well before they become security risks.”

    “Ensuring the safety and security of our military and government installations is a national priority,” said Senator Hagerty.  “For too long, foreign adversaries have tried to exploit America’s open real estate market and rule of law in an attempt to gain strategic footholds.  The Protect Our Bases Act gives our nation the tools to identify who is buying land near sensitive sites and stop transactions that could put the security of Americans at risk.”

    “As threats from our foreign adversaries, including the Chinese Communist Party, Iran and Russia, continue to escalate, it’s paramount that we secure our intelligence,” said Senator Britt.  “Allowing CFIUS to review foreign land purchases near sensitive military and government sites is just common sense.  Proud to join this legislation that takes a crucial step toward strengthening our national security and safeguarding our strategic advantages.”

    “There’s no reason why America’s adversaries should be able to buy land next to our military bases,” said Senator Ricketts.  “Farmland adjacent to sensitive sites should remain in the hands of American farmers and ranchers, not Communist China.  This commonsense bill will help to protect our troops, prevent espionage and counter our adversaries.”

    BACKGROUND:

    In 2022, Fufeng Group, a Chinese company with ties to the Chinese Communist Party, announced it would purchase land near Grand Forks Air Force Base in North Dakota.  CFIUS determined that it could not evaluate the transaction for national security risks because the U.S. Department of Defense had not listed the base as a sensitive site for national security purposes.  Although the City of Grand Forks ultimately blocked the transaction, the incident demonstrated a significant flaw in the review process of foreign land purchases.  CFIUS relies on its member agencies to provide updated information on sensitive military, intelligence and national laboratory sites in order to properly assess the security risk of foreign investment in our country.  If CFIUS member agencies do not appropriately update their site lists, CFIUS cannot ensure an accurate review.

    In addition to requiring agencies represented on CFIUS to provide updated records of the military, intelligence and national laboratory facilities that should be sensitive sites on an annual basis, the Protect Our Bases Act makes these records easier for CFIUS to use for national security reviews and requires CFIUS to submit an annual report to Congress certifying the completion of such reviews and the accuracy of its real estate listings.

    For bill text, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom honors fallen Los Angeles Police Sergeant

    Source: US State of California 2

    Jun 23, 2025

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom issued the following statement regarding the death of Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Sergeant Shiou Deng:

    “Jennifer and I are heartbroken by the loss of Sergeant Deng, who dedicated more than 26 years to serving the Los Angeles community with pride and purpose. We join his family, friends, and fellow officers in mourning, and in honoring his memory. May his service never be forgotten.” 

    On June 23, LAPD Sergeant Deng was fatally injured while assisting at a crash on southbound I-405 near Getty Center Drive. After stopping to help, he was struck by another vehicle that collided with the original crash. Despite lifesaving efforts by the California Highway Patrol and the Los Angeles Fire Department, Sergeant Deng succumbed to his injuries. 

    Sergeant Deng, 53, has been with the LAPD for over 26 years. During his career, he spent 17 years in the Mental Evaluation Unit, a specialized team within the LAPD that handles calls involving individuals experiencing mental health crises. Two years ago, he was promoted to sergeant and assigned to the West Los Angeles Division.

    He is survived by his wife and parents. 

    In honor of Sergeant Deng, flags at the State Capitol and Capitol Annex Swing Space will be flown at half-staff.

    Press releases, Public safety

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    Jun 20, 2025

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    Jun 19, 2025

    News What you need to know: The Ninth Circuit rejected Trump’s sweeping claim that he can federalize the National Guard for any reason and avoid judicial scrutiny, even as it stayed an emergency district court order. This is a critical check on presidential overreach…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two-Hundred-Fifty-One New Immigration Cases Filed in Western District of Texas, Fewest Since March

    Source: US FBI

    SAN ANTONIO –United States Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas announced today, that federal prosecutors in the district filed 251 new immigration and immigration-related criminal cases from June 13 through 19.

    Among the new cases, U.S. citizens Derrick Eugene Huntington, 39, and Michael Jerear Smith Jr., 39, of Arlington, along with Christina Elena Duggan-Rankin, 42, of Huffman, were arrested at an immigration checkpoint near Carrizo Springs after they were allegedly discovered conspiring to transport four illegal aliens concealed in two separate vehicles. A criminal complaint alleges that Huntington and Smith occupied a sedan carrying an illegal alien in the trunk, while Duggan-Rankin drove an SUV with one illegal alien hidden on the floorboard in the passenger compartment and two others in the rear of the vehicle. The complaint further alleges that the three Americans admitted to conspiring with a facilitator to transport the aliens to a location near San Antonio for monetary gain, and that cell phone evidence revealed photos of the smuggled aliens and communications with the facilitator, along with a pin-drop of the pick-up location. Huntington, Smith and Duggan-Rankin are each charged with bringing in and harboring aliens.

    In a separate case, U.S. citizens Raul Hilario Alvarado, 24, and Timothey Nathan Easterling, 40, were arrested during a vehicle stop on Highway 85 near Big Wells for allegedly transporting two illegal aliens. During an immigration inspection, a criminal complaint alleges, one backseat passenger was determined to be illegally present in the U.S., while a second illegal alien was found in the trunk of the vehicle. According to the criminal complaint, both defendants admitted to conspiring with a facilitator and that they were going to be paid up to $2,500 for transporting the illegal aliens.

    Mexican nationals Israel Moreno-Salgado, 38, and Jose Hector Ramirez Roman, 43, were arrested near Maverick and charged with illegal re-entry felonies. Moreno-Salgado has been previously removed from the U.S. eight times, the most recent being April 1. Ramirez Roman has been removed from the U.S. five times, the latest being Jan. 22. Honduran national Delmar Sanchez-Zuniga, 42, was also arrested near Maverick for illegal re-entry. The three-time felon, with convictions for possession of a controlled substance, possession of a firearm by a felon, and a previous illegal re-entry conviction, has been deported twice before, the last being Dec. 13, 2024.

    Mexican national Jose Rodolfo Cruz-Lopez was arrested and charged with illegal re-entry in El Paso. Court documents reveal that, in May 2023, Cruz-Lopez was convicted of three felonies related to child abduction in Elizabethtown, North Carolina. He was removed from the U.S. to Mexico in October 2023. Also a Mexican national, Edwin Enrique Carpio-Lopez was arrested for illegal re-entry, having been removed from the U.S. five times, the last being on Feb. 11. Additionally, immigration records show Carpio-Lopez has been granted four voluntary returns and has been expelled 17 times under Title 42.

    On June 14, U.S. Border Patrol agents in El Paso attempted a traffic stop after they allegedly observed multiple individuals enter a pick-up truck near the border. A criminal complaint alleges that the driver of the truck, identified as Mexican national Ruben Alfredo Carrillo-Castruita¸ fled at a high rate of speed in a reckless manner, running several red lights before exiting the vehicle at an intersection and fleeing on foot. An assisting Texas Department of Public Safety trooper was able to apprehend Carrillo-Castruita, while the two passengers who fled from the pick-up were located by Border Patrol agents. The complaint alleges that Carrillo-Castruita admitted to being hired by a smuggler and was going to be paid $300 per illegal alien. The defendant was previously convicted for transporting illegal aliens in New Mexico in May 2023.

    Heriberto Betancourt-Morales, a Mexican national, was charged in a criminal complaint for conspiracy to bring in aliens as the result of a U.S. Border Patrol investigation that identified him as a person involved in human smuggling. The complaint alleges that Betancourt-Morales was previously removed from El Paso to Ciudad Juarez on Sept. 21, 2024, and had transported multiple illegal aliens in May 2025. In one victim account, Betancourt-Morales allegedly carried a makeshift ladder for an alien to climb the border fence and pushed them over the fence causing the alien to fall and sustain injuries. Another victim cited in the complaint alleged that Betancourt-Morales and other smugglers transported her to multiple stash houses in Mexico prior to making illegal entry using a makeshift ladder to climb the fence. A third victim also identified Betancourt-Morales as an individual who conducted random checkups and gave orders at a stash house in Ciudad Juarez, where she was harbored with more than 10 other subjects.

    These cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE ERO), U.S. Border Patrol, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), with additional assistance from state and local law enforcement partners.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas comprises 68 counties located in the central and western areas of Texas, encompasses nearly 93,000 square miles and an estimated population of 7.6 million people. The district includes three of the five largest cities in Texas—San Antonio, Austin and El Paso—and shares 660 miles of common border with the Republic of Mexico.

    These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    Indictments and criminal complaints are merely allegations and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: June 23rd, 2025 Heinrich, Cortez Masto, Hernández Call on Trump Administration to Maintain Funding for Puerto Rico Energy Resilience

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member on the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, joined U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Resident Commissioner for Puerto Rico Pablo José Hernández (D-P.R.) and 19 Members of Congress in a letter to U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Chris Wright calling on the Trump Administration to reverse its decision to redirect funding from the Puerto Rico Energy Resilience Fund. In 2022, Congress approved $1 billion for the fund to improve the resilience of the Puerto Rican electric grid.

    “We write to express our deep concern regarding the Department of Energy’s (DOE) decision to redirect funding from the Puerto Rico Energy Resilience Fund away from providing the most vulnerable citizens of Puerto Rico with backup power,” wrote the lawmakers. “As you know, these congressionally appropriated funds were intended to provide solar and battery storage at residential communities and health centers across the island. DOE has claimed that the funds will now be deployed to ‘support practical fixes that offer a faster, more impactful solution to the current crisis.’ We, however, remain greatly concerned that the people of Puerto Rico are being used as pawns in President Trump’s attack on clean energy, and fail to see a justification for this action.”

    “The long-term recovery process of Puerto Rico’s electric grid has been marked by significant challenges, including recurring power outages that continue to impact the daily lives of Puerto Ricans, with one as recently as this past April,” continued the lawmakers. “We are concerned that redirecting this funding would restart the allocation process, delaying timely and needed resources to medically vulnerable populations. In addition, the legal justification for this “reallocation” of funds, with seeming disregard to congressional intent, remains unclear.”

    In addition to Heinrich, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), and Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), and U.S.Representatives Adriano Espaillat (D-N.Y.-13), Jared Huffman (D-Calif.-02), Tim Kennedy (D-N.Y.), Kweisi Mfume (D-Md.), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.), Nellie Pou (D-N.J.), Ritchie Torres (D-N.Y.), and Nydia Velázquez (D-N.Y.) also signed the letter.

    Read the full letter here and below.

    Dear Secretary Wright:

    We write to express our deep concern regarding the Department of Energy’s (DOE) decision to redirect funding from the Puerto Rico Energy Resilience Fund away from providing the most vulnerable citizens of Puerto Rico with backup power. As you know, these congressionally appropriated funds were intended to provide solar and battery storage at residential communities and health centers across the island. DOE has claimed that the funds will now be deployed to “support practical fixes that offer a faster, more impactful solution to the current crisis”.  We, however, remain greatly concerned that the people of Puerto Rico are being used as pawns in President Trump’s attack on clean energy, and fail to see a justification for this action.

    The long-term recovery process of Puerto Rico’s electric grid has been marked by significant challenges, including recurring power outages that continue to impact the daily lives of Puerto Ricans, with one as recently as this past April. We are concerned that redirecting this funding would restart the allocation process, delaying timely and needed resources to medically vulnerable populations. In addition, the legal justification for this “reallocation” of funds, with seeming disregard to congressional intent, remains unclear.

    We strongly urge you to reconsider this action.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Highland Council to deliver housing energy efficiency upgrades with ECO funding

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    The Highland Council will deliver a transformative programme of energy efficiency upgrades across Council housing supported by a £9.2 million Energy Company Obligation (ECO) funding proposal secured by Union Technical.

    The funding proposal will deliver approximately 1,000 individual energy efficiency measures to Council owned properties across the Highlands, and the upgrades will focus on reducing carbon emissions, improving thermal comfort, and lowering energy bills for tenants.

    Councillor Glynis Campbell Sinclair, Chair of Highland Council’s Housing and Property Committee, said: “This is a fantastic programme which will allow us to improve the quality and condition of our properties for tenants throughout the Highlands. The programme is a crucial step towards decarbonising Highland Council housing and will ensure our tenants benefit from warmer and more efficient homes.”

    The programme includes:

    • Insulation to reduce heat loss and improve building envelope performance and enhance thermal retention
    • Installation of air source heat pumps (ASHPs) to replace old inefficient storage heaters and panel heaters.  These low carbon systems extract ambient heat from the air and are up to 300% efficient.
    • Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems to generate renewable electricity on-site, allowing tenants to benefit from generation at source and lowering tenant energy costs.

    The energy efficiency measures are also expected to significantly improve the Energy Performance Certificate ratings of properties, which will support the Council in meeting statutory targets such as the Scottish Housing Quality Standard and Energy Efficiency Standard for Social Housing.

    Additionally, the Council continues to deliver the Energy Efficient Scotland: Area Based Scheme (EES:ABS), funded by the Scottish Government, which provides support for owner occupiers and private rented tenants.  This programme offers funding for similar energy efficiency measures, subject to Scottish Government eligibility, and can help to lower fuel costs and improving living conditions for tenants.

    The Council continues to explore various external funding streams to support the ongoing delivery of energy efficiency measures across Council housing.

    More information is available on The Highland Council website.

    23 Jun 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: New brain-injury supportive living home will better support people

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Lana Popham, MLA for Saanich South –

    “This supportive living home with a focused model of support will meet the unique needs of people living with acquired brain injuries on Vancouver Island. The opening of Connect Saanich Peninsula represents hope and new opportunities for specialized community-based healing and support closer to home.”

    Leah Hollins, board chair, Island Health –

    “This new service aligns with Island Health’s goal to provide patient-centred, accessible and equitable care for Vancouver Island residents, and will address an identified gap in specialized brain-injury services on the south Island. By expanding and improving the services provided to people living with brain injuries, we can improve quality of life for clients, provide hope for improved wellness, support families and caregivers and reduce strain on hospitals and long-term care resources.”

    Ashley Ormiston, regional program co-ordinator, brain injury program, Island Health –

    “Living with a brain injury can be life-altering. With early intervention and focused, timely interventions, we know people with brain injuries can begin to recover, improve their health, gain independence and reintegrate into society.”

    Patti Flaherty, CEO, Connect Communities –

    “We are thrilled to partner with Island Health and expand Connect’s Life Redesign Model to Vancouver Island. Our team has more than 30 years of experience supporting individuals after brain injury and stroke in Langley, Kelowna and Ontario. Our south-Island location will help empower and coach the people we support to redesign their lives to find meaning and connection.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Guangdong and Hong Kong jointly promote Modular Integrated Construction development (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Guangdong and Hong Kong jointly promote Modular Integrated Construction development  
         The Building Technology Research Institute (BTRi), the Construction Industry Council (CIC), the MiC Laboratory of The University of Hong Kong, and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Modular Integrated Construction Industry Alliance (Alliance) are co-organisers of the MiC Week.
     
         Speaking at the launching ceremony, the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn, said that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government has been actively promoting the adoption of MiC to enhance the productivity and cost-effectiveness of the construction industry. As of now, over 100 government and private projects have adopted this advanced construction method. She said that the HKSAR Government is implementing a series of measures to strengthen the supply chain of MiC, including the release of the Guangdong-Hong Kong Modular Integrated Construction Cross-boundary Trading Guidebook, the accreditation of MiC manufacturers, the announcement of the MiC Annual Demand Forecast and the enhancement of relevant training on MiC, as well as the research and development of new technologies. Among which, the DEVB plans to announce a new requirement for public works projects later this year to require MiC manufacturers to be accredited before bidding for tenders of relevant projects, with a view to streamlining the vetting and approval process and ensuring quality. She said that the Guangdong Province is the main manufacturing base for MiC modules in the Greater Bay Area (GBA), while Hong Kong possesses advantages in research and development as well as overseas promotion. The DEVB will continue to work closely with the Guangdong Provincial Government to build the GBA into a MiC technology and construction hub, and promote MiC to become a new quality productive force and a strategic industry that expands to the international arena.
     
         The Director-General of the DHURDGP, Mr Zhang Yong, said in his speech that high-quality and reliable MiC products from Guangdong have been gradually applied in various projects in Hong Kong including office buildings, school dormitories, public housing and private buildings, making positive contributions to the urban development and the security of people’s livelihoods in Hong Kong. From January to May this year, Guangdong exported MiC modules with a total value of about $1.39 billion to Hong Kong, a year-on-year increase of 2.3 times, demonstrating strong technical and supply capabilities. Building on the development of a supply chain that fully supports Hong Kong, Guangdong has also progressively developed application scenarios such as schools, hospitals and talent accommodation, and explored MiC technology innovations for projects including super-high-rise buildings and in-situ redevelopment, advancing pilot modular projects for urban development.
     
         The unveiling ceremony of the Alliance was also held during the launching ceremony. With membership comprising industry associations, higher education institutions, research institutes, enterprises, experts and scholars from Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao, the Alliance aims to promote the development of MiC in the GBA, aligning with the national strategies of high-quality development and green building.
     
         In addition, the Guangdong-Hong Kong Modular Integrated Construction Cross-boundary Trading Guidebook compiled by the DEVB was also released at the launching ceremony. The guidebook provides manufacturers with guidelines on application for bonded processing trade arrangements for MiC materials and cross-boundary tax declarations for exporting MiC modules to Hong Kong, enabling all parties in the MiC supply chain in the GBA to conduct MiC cross-boundary trade more conveniently and efficiently.
     
         The Chairperson of the BTRi, Mr Hon Chi-keung, also presented accreditation certificates to the first batch of eight manufacturers accredited under the MiC Manufacturer Accreditation Scheme 
         The Chairman of the CIC, Professor Thomas Ho, also announced the first     MiC Annual Demand Forecast 
         The launching ceremony attracted over 1 000 participants who took part both online and offline. Other activities of the MiC Week include International Conference on Modular Integrated Construction, an enterprise forum, a design workshop, a site visit to a MiC project, a guided tour for public and more. Details are available on its     websiteIssued at HKT 22:48

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Following Trump Attacks on TPS, Rosen Helps Introduce Bill to Protect TPS Recipients

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) helped introduce legislation to provide qualified Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) recipients a path to permanent legal residency. The introduction of the Safe Environment from Countries Under Repression and Emergency (SECURE) Act comes as the Trump Administration undermines TPS. The Trump Administration has revoked TPS for an estimated 563,000 recipients from five countries. Although legal challenges have been filed against this action, the Supreme Court has temporarily allowed the revocation to stand, putting hundreds of thousands at risk of deportation to their home countries, where they would face serious danger.
    “The Temporary Protected Status program has been a lifeline that has allowed people and families facing unimaginable circumstances to find a safe refuge here in the United States,” said Senator Rosen. “TPS recipients contribute to our communities and our economy, and they deserve a pathway to permanent residency, which is why I’m proud to help introduce this bill. I’ll keep standing up to protect Nevada’s immigrant families.”
    Nevada is home to thousands of TPS recipients. Senator Rosen has been outspoken in her strong support for TPS recipients, DACA recipients, and their families. Last week, she urged the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to resume processing applications for the DACA program, following a Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals ruling that limited a nationwide injunction to only Texas. Earlier this month, Senator Rosen took to the Senate floor to mark the thirteenth anniversary of the DACA program and deliver a forceful defense of Nevada’s Dreamers in light of the Trump Administration’s attacks on immigrant communities across the country.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Following Trump Attacks on TPS, Rosen Helps Introduce Bill to Protect TPS Recipients

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) helped introduce legislation to provide qualified Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) recipients a path to permanent legal residency. The introduction of the Safe Environment from Countries Under Repression and Emergency (SECURE) Act comes as the Trump Administration undermines TPS. The Trump Administration has revoked TPS for an estimated 563,000 recipients from five countries. Although legal challenges have been filed against this action, the Supreme Court has temporarily allowed the revocation to stand, putting hundreds of thousands at risk of deportation to their home countries, where they would face serious danger.
    “The Temporary Protected Status program has been a lifeline that has allowed people and families facing unimaginable circumstances to find a safe refuge here in the United States,” said Senator Rosen. “TPS recipients contribute to our communities and our economy, and they deserve a pathway to permanent residency, which is why I’m proud to help introduce this bill. I’ll keep standing up to protect Nevada’s immigrant families.”
    Nevada is home to thousands of TPS recipients. Senator Rosen has been outspoken in her strong support for TPS recipients, DACA recipients, and their families. Last week, she urged the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to resume processing applications for the DACA program, following a Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals ruling that limited a nationwide injunction to only Texas. Earlier this month, Senator Rosen took to the Senate floor to mark the thirteenth anniversary of the DACA program and deliver a forceful defense of Nevada’s Dreamers in light of the Trump Administration’s attacks on immigrant communities across the country.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Demand SDNY Misconduct Records Ahead of Emil Bove’s Nomination Hearing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker

    WASHINGTON, D.C. –  U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Peter Welch (D-VT), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Adam Schiff (D-CA), and Alex Padilla (D-CA), all members of the Senate Judiciary Committee, wrote a letter to Interim U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York (SDNY) Jay Clayton requesting personnel records relevant to Emil Bove III, President Trump’s nominee to the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit.

    From 2012 to 2021, Mr. Bove served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York (SDNY). During his tenure at SDNY, Mr. Bove was promoted to Acting Deputy Chief for the Narcotics Unit in 2019 and, later, Co-Chief of the Terrorism and International Narcotics Unit from 2019 to 2021.

    “According to public reporting, Mr. Bove’s unprofessional and unethical conduct and his vindictive and angry temperament with opposing counsel and his own colleagues led to multiple complaints, professional interventions, and the threat of demotion throughout his career at SDNY. In 2018, a group of federal criminal defense attorneys in Manhattan were so alarmed by Mr. Bove’s pattern of unethical conduct that they wrote his supervisors at SDNY to warn them that he was a liability for the office,” the Senators wrote. The Senators’ letter includes the text of that complaint, which described Mr. Bove as the “prosecutor version of a drunk driver — completely reckless and out of control.”

    “Mr. Bove’s record of alleged abuse of power, ethical lapses, dishonesty, and unstable, abusive behavior during his tenure as a federal prosecutor warrants a thorough review of his employment

    history at SDNY by members of the Judiciary Committee. Mr. Bove now seeks a lifetime appointment to a federal appeals court, an office that carries immense power and limited accountability. It is also a role that requires constant collaboration with and deep trust amongst all of the judges on the appeals court. Bove’s documented conduct raises serious concerns about his fitness for such a role,” the Senators continued. 

    The Senators requested the following records by no later than June 23, 2025:

    1. All internal complaints, formal and informal, against Mr. Bove during his tenure at the SDNY.
    2. All external complaints submitted to SDNY, including from opposing counsel, during his tenure at the SDNY.
    3. All records regarding Mr. Bove’s management style and alleged abusive behavior.

    To read the full text of the letter, click here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Demand SDNY Misconduct Records Ahead of Emil Bove’s Nomination Hearing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker

    WASHINGTON, D.C. –  U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Peter Welch (D-VT), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Adam Schiff (D-CA), and Alex Padilla (D-CA), all members of the Senate Judiciary Committee, wrote a letter to Interim U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York (SDNY) Jay Clayton requesting personnel records relevant to Emil Bove III, President Trump’s nominee to the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit.

    From 2012 to 2021, Mr. Bove served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York (SDNY). During his tenure at SDNY, Mr. Bove was promoted to Acting Deputy Chief for the Narcotics Unit in 2019 and, later, Co-Chief of the Terrorism and International Narcotics Unit from 2019 to 2021.

    “According to public reporting, Mr. Bove’s unprofessional and unethical conduct and his vindictive and angry temperament with opposing counsel and his own colleagues led to multiple complaints, professional interventions, and the threat of demotion throughout his career at SDNY. In 2018, a group of federal criminal defense attorneys in Manhattan were so alarmed by Mr. Bove’s pattern of unethical conduct that they wrote his supervisors at SDNY to warn them that he was a liability for the office,” the Senators wrote. The Senators’ letter includes the text of that complaint, which described Mr. Bove as the “prosecutor version of a drunk driver — completely reckless and out of control.”

    “Mr. Bove’s record of alleged abuse of power, ethical lapses, dishonesty, and unstable, abusive behavior during his tenure as a federal prosecutor warrants a thorough review of his employment

    history at SDNY by members of the Judiciary Committee. Mr. Bove now seeks a lifetime appointment to a federal appeals court, an office that carries immense power and limited accountability. It is also a role that requires constant collaboration with and deep trust amongst all of the judges on the appeals court. Bove’s documented conduct raises serious concerns about his fitness for such a role,” the Senators continued. 

    The Senators requested the following records by no later than June 23, 2025:

    1. All internal complaints, formal and informal, against Mr. Bove during his tenure at the SDNY.
    2. All external complaints submitted to SDNY, including from opposing counsel, during his tenure at the SDNY.
    3. All records regarding Mr. Bove’s management style and alleged abusive behavior.

    To read the full text of the letter, click here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – Green claims: Committee Chairs react to cancellation of negotiations

    Source: European Parliament

    Following the Commission’s announcement it intends to withdraw the legislative proposal on green claims, the Council decided to cancel talks with Parliament scheduled for today.

    Anna Cavazzini (Greens/EFA, DE), Chair of the Committee on Internal Market and Consumer Protection, and Antonio Decaro (S&D, IT), Chair of the Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety, commented on this last-minute cancellation:

    “Less than three hours before the start of the final trilogue, we learned of the Presidency’s unwillingness to engage in negotiations with the Parliament and the Commission, because of the Commission’s recent announcements and the change of positions within the Council itself.

    “This modus operandi could set a dangerous precedent for the legislative process and institutional procedures, leading to unnecessary and avoidable confrontation among co-legislators. We do not believe it is fair to deprive Parliament of the opportunity to finalise the negotiations on a directive after two years of legislative process and countless hours of work.

    “We are thus being prevented from discussing and hopefully agreeing on an important directive that serves to build environmental awareness and consumer trust by making environmental marketing claims more reliable and verifiable. What’s more, fighting greenwashing would create a more level playing field for businesses that already work sustainably.

    As Chairs of the responsible committees at the European Parliament, we are ready to continue negotiations as soon as possible by resuming the institutional dialogue.”

    Parliament’s co-rapporteurs Sandro Gozi (Renew, FR) from the Committee on Internal Market and Consumer Protection and Tiemo Wölken (S&D, DE) from the Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety also responded to the decision during a press conference today where they explained their position and answered media questions. See the recording here.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Strategies to attract US researchers to the EU – E-001337/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission aims to make the EU the most attractive and secure place for both EU and non-EU scientific talent, especially amid today’s uncertainties. Europe is already a safe haven for scientists, and this role must be protected by enshrining the freedom of scientific research in EU law.

    The Commission will put forward a new EUR 500 million package for 2025 -2027 to make Europe a magnet for researchers. This includes the Marie Skłodowska-Curie ‘Choose Europe’ pilot,[1] which will support early-career researchers with attractive allowances and longer contracts, and a seven-year ‘super grant’ under the European Research Council.

    The EU is also making it easier for researchers to relocate and integrate. The ‘Students and Researchers’ Directive[2] provides a framework[3] for researchers to enter and reside in the EU, and the upcoming visa strategy aims to build on this by further easing migration procedures.

    EURAXESS[4] offers information and personalised assistance, helping researchers connect with institutions and regional innovation ecosystems.

    The European Research Area Act, expected in 2026, will aim to introduce measures strengthening the freedom of scientific research, research careers, mobility and coordination across Member States.

    The Commission supports European regions through initiatives like Regional Innovation Valleys to boost local innovation, particularly in digital and healthcare sectors.

    This is complemented by tools such as the Artificial Intelligence factories[5], the European Institute of Innovation and Technology[6], Digital Innovation Hubs[7] and Startup Europe[8].

    These efforts are further supported by EU Cohesion Policy, which helps regions leverage funding to support innovation and digitalisation.

    • [1] In addition to the ‘Choose Europe’ pilot, the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Action (MSCA) provide a wide range of training, mobility and career development opportunities that are open to researchers of all nationalities, including United States researchers, for them to successfully relocate to Europe.
    • [2] Directive (EU) 2016/801 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 May 2016 on the conditions of entry and residence of third-country nationals for the purposes of research, studies, training, voluntary service, pupil exchange schemes or educational projects and au pairing (recast).
    • [3] This framework includes, amongst others, equal treatment rights with EU citizens in many areas, possibility to bring their families to the EU, intra-EU mobility rights, right to stay for up to nine months after the end of the research to look for a job, possibility to teach while conducting research, etc.
    • [4] https://euraxess.ec.europa.eu/.
    • [5] https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/policies/ai-factories.
    • [6] https://www.eit.europa.eu/.
    • [7] https://european-digital-innovation-hubs.ec.europa.eu/home.
    • [8] https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/policies/startup-europe.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Update on Public Safety Efforts Amidst Ongoing Conflict

    Source: US State of New York

    arlier today, Governor Kathy Hochul updated New Yorkers on ongoing public safety efforts amidst the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

    VIDEO: The event is available to stream on YouTube here and TV quality video is available here (h.264, mp4).

    AUDIO: The Governor’s remarks are available in audio form here.

    A rush transcript of the Governor’s remarks is available below:

    Before I take questions about our energy announcement today, I want to address the conflict in the Middle East, and I know it’s a great time of uncertainty and fear in so many communities across the State of New York. And just to reaffirm, as we monitor this by the second, there are no credible threats against New York at this time.

    Just a short time ago, I convened over 100 religious and community leaders on a call to be able to let them know all the steps we’ve taken since I first became aware of the situation and immediately convened my top security team: counterintelligence, State Police, all of our partners and Homeland Security to talk about what we can do.

    Now, we also put all of our State agencies on high alert: talking about the Thruway Authority, the DOT, the subway system downstate New York — the MTA, all of our trains, our airports, water systems, utilities, NYPA. So all these are actually vulnerabilities, but it’s not something that hasn’t been contemplated. We tabletop exercises. We drill. We have highly professional individuals who are stepping up to do what they’ve been trained to do, and that is to protect our homeland and to protect the people of the State of New York.

    Also, I want to make sure we know we’re protecting all the bridges and tunnels, passenger lines and preparing for attacks on cyber infrastructure. These enormous facilities are run on technology. Cyber attacks can be crippling. We’ve had counties, hospitals under the State of New York that were attacked with ransomware threats. There’s no easy way out of those. So that’s why as the Governor, I’ve invested millions of dollars to give money to different counties so they can harden their assets and make sure that they can protect critical data that’s used to deliver services to New Yorkers.

    And also, there’s a lot of people feeling scared. They have family members in the Middle East. Religious groups, whether it’s the Jewish or Muslim communities, we have the largest groups in the State of New York of anywhere in the country, and we’re going to continue letting them know we’ll defend and fight against hate crimes. Our State Police Hate Crimes Task Force is on high alert, ready to assist anyone who needs help. So we’ll be increasing our patrols and already have at houses of worship as well.

    Lastly, I want to say this is an opportunity for New Yorkers to come together, put aside political differences and all the hatred that’s spewing online. Knowing that we have vulnerable assets. We are a vulnerable place. We are a place that has been attacked before. We are the financial capital of the world, the head of the cultural center for our country and indeed the world as well, and a place again that has withstood attacks in the past. So, as we remain on high alert, I want New Yorkers to remain on high alert, and get back to that tried and true phrase, “If you see something, say something.”

    There have been a number of attacks that have been thwarted because of vigilant individuals — our civilians who’ve stepped up and reported what they’ve seen, and we need them activated and engaged right now. But we will get through this time, and let us not forget the brave men and women of our [armed] services who are putting themselves in harm’s way every single day, and pray for them and a speedy de-escalation of this conflict and ultimately peace in the region.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyoming National Guard Dedicates New Field Maintenance Shop in Sheridan

    Source: US State of Wyoming

    SHERIDAN, Wyo. – The Wyoming Army National Guard will host a building dedication ceremony for its new Field Maintenance Shop in Sheridan on Tuesday, June 24, at 11 a.m. at 3239 Coffeen Ave.

    The ceremony will be attended by senior leaders, including Maj. Gen. Gregory Porter, Wyoming’s Adjutant General; Mr. Douglas Shope, Deputy Director, State of Wyoming; Col. James Ezell, U.S. Property and Fiscal Officer; and Lt. Col. William Lindmier, Deputy Construction and Facility Management Officer.

    The new 27,185-square-foot facility, constructed on over five acres, supports both organizational and support-level maintenance for the Wyoming Army National Guard’s combat and tactical vehicle fleet. The shop includes five service bays: A warm-up and inspection bay, a heated wash bay, a welding bay, and two standard maintenance bays.

    The $17.9 million project was managed by the Wyoming Construction and Facilities Management Office. Key contributors included Mr. Brett Bautz, P.E., Design and Project Management Section Chief; Mr. Paul Newman, Project Inspector with Design Build Solutions, LLC; design-builder Hensel Phelps; Jacobs Engineering as the architect-of-record; and Design Build Solutions as the project consultant.

    The event will be emceed by Col. James Ezell and includes a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11:30 a.m. followed by self-guided tours until 1:30 p.m. Doors open to the public at 10:30 a.m.

    Media Contact:
    Wyoming Military Department Public Affairs
    wyoguard@gmail.mil or Joseph.a.coslett.civ@army.mil
     307-772-5040

    Sheridan Mayor Rich Bridger speaks at a ground breaking ceremony in Sheridan, Wyo., on May 2, 2023. The ceremony marks the construction of a new vehicle maintenance shop that will be housed right next to the existing armory. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Kristina Kranz)
    Distinguished guests, military officials, and community leaders attend a ground breaking ceremony in Sheridan, Wyo. on May 2, 2023. The ceremony marks the construction of a new vehicle maintenance shop that will be housed right next to the existing armory. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Kristina Kranz)
    Sheridan community leaders and officials from the Wyoming Army National Guard pose for the symbolic groundbreaking of a new facility in Sheridan Wyo., on May 2, 2023. The ceremony marks the construction of a new vehicle maintenance shop that will be housed right next to the existing armory. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Kristina Kranz)

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Florida Nonprofit Founder and Accountant Charged with Stealing Over $100M from Special Needs Victims

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    An indictment was unsealed today charging two Florida men in connection with a fraudulent scheme to steal over $100 million from a nonprofit organization that managed funds for people with special needs and disabilities.

    “As alleged, for over 15 years, the defendants conspired to use the funds of special needs clients as a personal piggy bank, stealing $100 million dollars meant for the most vulnerable members of our society to enrich themselves,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Today’s charges reflect the Criminal Division’s ongoing commitment to prosecuting sophisticated fraudsters who abuse the trust of their victims. Thanks to the relentless efforts of our multiagency partners, we will continue to aggressively pursue accountability for perpetrators who exploit Americans out of greed.”

    “Protecting the most vulnerable members of our society is a priority of the U. S. Attorney’s Office,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida. “The fraud alleged in this nationwide scheme is unfathomable. Due to the diligence and interagency collaboration by our dedicated law enforcement partners, these crimes will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

    “The subjects charged are accused of creating a slush fund to divert millions of dollars away from a nonprofit organization helping people with special needs,” said Assistant Director Jose A. Perez of the FBI Criminal Investigative Division. “Not only were the organization’s resources drained, but the accused subjects betrayed the trust of the community and ultimately bankrupted a lifeline for vulnerable families. The FBI will not tolerate the exploitation of charitable missions for personal enrichment.”

    “The scale and audacity of the alleged fraud in this case are deeply troubling,” said Criminal Investigation Chief Guy Ficco of the IRS. “Stealing funds intended to protect and support people with special needs is as cruel as it is criminal. IRS-CI special agents are dedicated to uncovering complex financial schemes, especially those that prey on the most vulnerable in our society.”

    “The defendant disrupted access to critical services for individuals with disabilities and defrauded federal health care programs with the sole purpose of financing a life of extravagance,” said Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank of the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG, in collaboration with our law enforcement partners, will continue to hold those who’s illicit actions seek to assail enrollees and the nation’s federal health care programs fully accountable.”

    According to court documents, Leo John Govoni, 67, of Clearwater, Florida, co-founded the Center for Special Needs Trust Administration (CSNT) in or around 2000 and John Leo Witeck, 60, of Tampa, Florida, worked at CSNT as an accountant. CSNT allegedly was a nonprofit that managed money for people with disabilities and other special needs, including those who received court awards, settlements, and other payments. CSNT grew to be one of the largest administrators of special needs trusts in the country, with beneficiaries located in almost every state. As of February 2024, the indictment alleges, CSNT managed over 2,100 special needs trusts containing approximately $200 million.

    As alleged in the indictment, from June 2009 through May 2025, Govoni, Witeck, and their co-conspirators solicited, stole, and misappropriated CSNT client-beneficiary funds — which they treated as a slush fund to enrich themselves and others — and concealed their illegal activities through complex financial transactions and deceit, including sending fraudulent account statements with false balances to disabled victims. Govoni allegedly used stolen money to purchase real estate, travel via private jet, fund a brewery, make deposits into his personal bank accounts, and pay personal debts. In 2024, CSNT filed for bankruptcy and disclosed that more than $100 million in client-beneficiary funds were missing from its trust accounts. Govoni is alleged to have made false declarations to the bankruptcy court related to the CSNT bankruptcy proceedings.

    Separately, Govoni is also alleged to have committed bank fraud related to a $3 million mortgage refinance loan and to have laundered $205,054 of the proceeds to pay off a home equity line of credit on his residence.

    Govoni and Witeck were both charged with conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud, wire fraud, mail fraud, and money laundering conspiracy. Govoni was additionally charged with bank fraud, illegal monetary transactions, and false bankruptcy declarations.

    If convicted, both defendants face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison on the wire fraud, mail fraud, conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud, and money laundering conspiracy charges. If convicted, Govoni faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison on the bank fraud charge, 10 years in prison on the illegal monetary transactions charge, and five years in prison on the false bankruptcy declaration charge.

    The FBI, IRS-CI, HHS-OIG, and SSA-OIG are investigating the case.

    Trial Attorney Lyndie Freeman of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U. S. Attorneys Jennifer Peresie and Michael Gordon for the Middle District of Florida are handling the prosecution.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Florida Nonprofit Founder and Accountant Charged with Stealing Over $100M from Special Needs Victims

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    An indictment was unsealed today charging two Florida men in connection with a fraudulent scheme to steal over $100 million from a nonprofit organization that managed funds for people with special needs and disabilities.

    “As alleged, for over 15 years, the defendants conspired to use the funds of special needs clients as a personal piggy bank, stealing $100 million dollars meant for the most vulnerable members of our society to enrich themselves,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Today’s charges reflect the Criminal Division’s ongoing commitment to prosecuting sophisticated fraudsters who abuse the trust of their victims. Thanks to the relentless efforts of our multiagency partners, we will continue to aggressively pursue accountability for perpetrators who exploit Americans out of greed.”

    “Protecting the most vulnerable members of our society is a priority of the U. S. Attorney’s Office,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida. “The fraud alleged in this nationwide scheme is unfathomable. Due to the diligence and interagency collaboration by our dedicated law enforcement partners, these crimes will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

    “The subjects charged are accused of creating a slush fund to divert millions of dollars away from a nonprofit organization helping people with special needs,” said Assistant Director Jose A. Perez of the FBI Criminal Investigative Division. “Not only were the organization’s resources drained, but the accused subjects betrayed the trust of the community and ultimately bankrupted a lifeline for vulnerable families. The FBI will not tolerate the exploitation of charitable missions for personal enrichment.”

    “The scale and audacity of the alleged fraud in this case are deeply troubling,” said Criminal Investigation Chief Guy Ficco of the IRS. “Stealing funds intended to protect and support people with special needs is as cruel as it is criminal. IRS-CI special agents are dedicated to uncovering complex financial schemes, especially those that prey on the most vulnerable in our society.”

    “The defendant disrupted access to critical services for individuals with disabilities and defrauded federal health care programs with the sole purpose of financing a life of extravagance,” said Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank of the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG, in collaboration with our law enforcement partners, will continue to hold those who’s illicit actions seek to assail enrollees and the nation’s federal health care programs fully accountable.”

    According to court documents, Leo John Govoni, 67, of Clearwater, Florida, co-founded the Center for Special Needs Trust Administration (CSNT) in or around 2000 and John Leo Witeck, 60, of Tampa, Florida, worked at CSNT as an accountant. CSNT allegedly was a nonprofit that managed money for people with disabilities and other special needs, including those who received court awards, settlements, and other payments. CSNT grew to be one of the largest administrators of special needs trusts in the country, with beneficiaries located in almost every state. As of February 2024, the indictment alleges, CSNT managed over 2,100 special needs trusts containing approximately $200 million.

    As alleged in the indictment, from June 2009 through May 2025, Govoni, Witeck, and their co-conspirators solicited, stole, and misappropriated CSNT client-beneficiary funds — which they treated as a slush fund to enrich themselves and others — and concealed their illegal activities through complex financial transactions and deceit, including sending fraudulent account statements with false balances to disabled victims. Govoni allegedly used stolen money to purchase real estate, travel via private jet, fund a brewery, make deposits into his personal bank accounts, and pay personal debts. In 2024, CSNT filed for bankruptcy and disclosed that more than $100 million in client-beneficiary funds were missing from its trust accounts. Govoni is alleged to have made false declarations to the bankruptcy court related to the CSNT bankruptcy proceedings.

    Separately, Govoni is also alleged to have committed bank fraud related to a $3 million mortgage refinance loan and to have laundered $205,054 of the proceeds to pay off a home equity line of credit on his residence.

    Govoni and Witeck were both charged with conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud, wire fraud, mail fraud, and money laundering conspiracy. Govoni was additionally charged with bank fraud, illegal monetary transactions, and false bankruptcy declarations.

    If convicted, both defendants face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison on the wire fraud, mail fraud, conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud, and money laundering conspiracy charges. If convicted, Govoni faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison on the bank fraud charge, 10 years in prison on the illegal monetary transactions charge, and five years in prison on the false bankruptcy declaration charge.

    The FBI, IRS-CI, HHS-OIG, and SSA-OIG are investigating the case.

    Trial Attorney Lyndie Freeman of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U. S. Attorneys Jennifer Peresie and Michael Gordon for the Middle District of Florida are handling the prosecution.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The Learning Refuge: How women-led community efforts help refugees resettle in Cyprus

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Suzan Ilcan, Professor of Sociology & University Research Chair, University of Waterloo

    A grassroots organization in Paphos, Cyprus, is bringing women together to address the needs of refugees in the city. (Shutterstock)

    Since 2015, the Republic of Cyprus (ROC) has seen a steady rise in migrant arrivals and asylum applications, primarily from people from Middle Eastern and African countries like Syria, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Cameroon.

    But many asylum-seekers face significant challenges. Refugees formally in the asylum system are often denied residency permits, which means they face persistent insecurity, poverty and isolation

    These conditions are compounded by restrictive and limited services for asylum-seekers. This deepens the precarity and exclusion refugees face within a political and economic system that treats them more like economic burdens than as human beings with rights who need help.

    In response to these institutional failures, citizens, volunteers and refugees themselves have begun to build grassroots networks of care and solidarity in the ROC and beyond to support refugee communities.

    In 2022 and 2023, we conducted interviews with women volunteers and refugees affiliated with The Learning Refuge, a civil society organization in the city of Paphos in southwest Cyprus that cultivates dialogue and collaboration among these two diverse groups.

    Women-led initiatives

    Many displaced people first arrive on the island of Cyprus through the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). However, the absence of a functioning asylum system or international legal protections leaves them in limbo.

    With no viable path to status in the TRNC, most cross the Green Line that bifurcates Cyprus into the ROC, where European Union asylum frameworks exist but remain limited in practice.

    Women-led community-building is often a response to the negative effects of inadequate state support and humanitarian aid for refugees. In Cyprus, this situation leaves many refugees without access to sufficient food, satisfactory health care, accommodation, employment, clothing and language training. In this current environment, refugees are increasingly experiencing insecure and fragile situations, especially women.

    In Cyprus, ss in many other countries, a variety of community-building efforts are important responses to limited or restricted state support and humanitarian aid for refugees.

    Women-led efforts offer opportunities to deliver educational activities and establish networks, and to help improve the welfare and social protection of refugee women, however imperfectly.

    These and other similar efforts highlight how women refugees and volunteers can mobilize to foster dialogue and collaboration.

    The Learning Refuge

    Founded in 2015, The Learning Refuge began as community meetings in a city park. The organization then used space from a nearby music venue to conduct support activities, and later, established itself in a dedicated building.

    Organizations like The Learning Refuge emerged to address the limited state support and humanitarian assistance services available to refugees.

    The Learning Refuge cultivates dialogue and collaboration among a diverse group of community volunteers.
    (Suzan Ilcan)

    As Syrian families began arriving in Paphos in 2015, local mothers started working with Syrian children, assisting them with homework, providing skills-training opportunities and language classes.

    The Learning Refuge cultivates dialogue and collaboration among a diverse group of community volunteers, including schoolteachers, artists, musicians, local residents, refugees and other migrants.

    With the aid of 20 volunteers, the loosely organized groups provide women refugees with material support and resources to enhance collective activities, including art and music projects, while also engaging in educational and friendship activities.

    While modest in scale, the organization has formed partnerships with local and international organizations, including Caritas Cyprus, UNHCR-Cyprus and the Cyprus Refugee Council to extend its outreach to various refugee groups.

    The organization has also launched creative initiatives aimed at cultivating additional inclusive civic spaces. One such effort, “Moms and Babies Day,” was developed in response to the rising number of single mothers from Africa arriving on the island. These women often face poverty and isolation, and struggle with language barriers.

    These efforts highlight how grassroots responses — especially those led by women — can offer partial but vital educational and emotional support to refugees struggling to find their footing in a new country.

    Negotiated belonging

    Through participation in The Learning Refuge, refugee women in Paphos engage in a dynamic process of negotiated belonging, navigating challenges like language barriers, gendered isolation, domestic violence and poverty while contributing to broader community-building efforts.

    For example, Maryam, a Syrian woman and mother of three, told us how The Learning Refuge helped her children establish friendships and learn Greek. She also highlighted that it helped her form close ties with volunteers and other Syrian women living in Cyprus, and find paid work in the city.

    The volunteers and women refugees participating in The Learning Refuge’s activities emphasized not only their capacity to develop new forms of belonging and solidarity; they also help reshape communal knowledge and generate supportive spaces for women from various backgrounds.

    Our research shows that women-led community-building is an effective, though short-term, response to insufficient state support and humanitarian aid systems that leave many refugees in precarious situations.

    In varying degrees, these efforts offer women and their families spaces to learn and cultivate new relationships, and foster collective projects and better visions of resettlement and refuge.

    Suzan Ilcan receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Council of Canada.

    Seçil Daǧtaș receives funding from Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

    – ref. The Learning Refuge: How women-led community efforts help refugees resettle in Cyprus – https://theconversation.com/the-learning-refuge-how-women-led-community-efforts-help-refugees-resettle-in-cyprus-252682

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: PHOTOS/VIDEO: Capito, Noem Celebrate Opening of Monarch Hall at Advanced Training Center

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito
    [embedded content]
    Click here or on the image above to watch Senator Capito’s remarks.
    HARPERS FERRY, W.Va. — U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), former chairman of the Senate Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, today joined Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Commissioner Rodney Scott, as well as Congressman Riley Moore (R-W.Va.), at the ribbon cutting ceremony for Monarch Hall, the newest addition to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Advanced Training Center (ATC) in Harpers Ferry.
    During her time as the top Republican on the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, Senator Capito led efforts in the Senate to secure federal funding for Monarch Hall, which will enhance training capacity for U.S. Customs and Border Protection and other Homeland Security personnel as they prepare to meet evolving threats at our nation’s borders and beyond. Senator Capito secured funding for this project in Fiscal Years (FY) 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023.
    “Facilities like Monarch Hall are critical to ensuring that the men and women who protect our homeland receive the cutting-edge training they need. I was proud to lead the effort to secure funding for this project, and I’m grateful to Secretary Noem and Commissioner Scott for joining us today to celebrate this important milestone and see the important work happening here firsthand. West Virginia plays a vital role in our national security, and this facility is another example of how our state is contributing to the safety and security of the American people,”Senator Capito said.
    “I want you all to know that I believe she [Senator Capito] is going to go down in history as one of the most effective senators that this country has ever seen. She has been so incredibly powerful in her advocacy for things that truly do matter…For years now, she has championed bringing the dollars that are necessary here to get this hall built,” Secretary Noem said.
    “I think it’s important to understand that we would not exist without Senator Capito’s support. Not just financially through appropriations, but the conversations behind the scenes, learning about the organization…I’m in a unique position coming up through the organization where I got to see the senator come out in the field when I was a Sector Chief and she just wanted to learn. I want to thank you for that because getting to know what’s behind the curtain is the important part,” Commissioner Scott said.
    The ribbon cutting ceremony highlighted the federal government’s continued commitment to supporting law enforcement training initiatives. Senator Capito has visited the facility several times, including in 2017 and 2021.
    Photos from today’s event are below:

    U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) participates in the ribbon cutting ceremony for Monarch Hall at the Advanced Training Center in Harpers Ferry, W.Va. on Monday, June 23, 2025.

    U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) delivers remarks at the ribbon cutting ceremony for Monarch Hall at the Advanced Training Center in Harpers Ferry, W.Va. on Monday, June 23, 2025. 

    U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) participates in the ribbon cutting ceremony for Monarch Hall at the Advanced Training Center in Harpers Ferry, W.Va. on Monday, June 23, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Israel further tightens grip on the West Bank amid Iran escalation

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières –

    Jerusalem – As international focus shifts to the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, Israeli forces have ramped up their activities in the West Bank, Palestine. Increased military operations in Jenin, Nablus, and Tulkarem governorates, along with additional troop deployments, have led to heightened restrictions on Palestinians. Médecins sans Frontières (MSF) warns that these actions exacerbate the already dire situation for Palestinians in the West Bank, who face significant barriers to accessing healthcare and essential services, especially since October 2023. MSF urges an immediate halt to measures that contribute to forced displacement and a system of annexation, including prolonged military presence, movement restrictions, demolitions, excessive use of force, and denial of basic services. 

    “On 13 June the Israeli forces raided my village in Tulkarem,” says Karim,* an MSF staff member in the West Bank. “They took over two residential buildings and turned them into military barracks, displacing the people who were living there. Since then, they have been patrolling the village regularly, conducting investigations, interrogations, arrests, searches, and detentions.” 

    “Over the past week, West Bank communities have seen their lives further controlled by an occupying power while the world looks away,” says Simona Onidi, project coordinator Jenin and Tulkarem. “This cannot continue.” 

    On 13 June, the day the escalations started, the Israeli authorities blocked all major Israeli checkpoints and road gates entrances to Hebron for four days. This forced people seeking medical care to cross between areas on foot, pushing critically ill people to walk long distances, taking the risk of being shot at, or being prevented from crossing at all.  

    “On 14 June, I tried to take my brother from Bethlehem to a medical appointment in Hebron – a trip that should take 25 minutes,” says Oday Al-Shobaki, MSF communications officer in the West Bank. “But due to the new Israeli restrictions, all main entrances and exits were closed. It took us three hours, and in the end, despite being very ill, he had to walk through a closed checkpoint on foot, like many others, which is not safe.” 

    MSF has suspended mobile clinics in Hebron and Nablus that provide mental health, sexual reproductive care, and basic healthcare due to these checkpoint closures and security concerns from the intensified military operations. In Jenin and Tulkarem, mobile clinics had to adapt working hours, running on some days, not others, because of Israeli forces’ presence in nearby villages. This has forced patients to rely on phone consultations.  

    Military operations and violent raids by the Israeli army have been going on for years in the West Bank. 2022 saw a then-record number of Palestinian deaths due to violence by Israeli forces or settlers. Since October 2023, Israeli forces have increased the number of coercive measures and use of extreme physical violence against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank, including severe movement restrictions, military raids, and systemic barriers to essential services.  

    In January 2025, the Israeli forces began the ‘Iron Wall’ military operation in northern West Bank, which is still ongoing. Violently emptying well-established camps and preventing anyone from returning, more than 42,000 people have been forcibly displaced and left without stable homes, and with limited access to food, water, and medical care. 

    “This latest wave of restrictions and violence over the last week, seems to be an opportunity for Israeli forces to entrench control, deepen the fragmentation of Palestinian communities, and further the system that the International Court of Justice has described as amounting to racial segregation and apartheid,” says Onidi. “We urge third states to move beyond words of condemnation and put real pressure on Israeli authorities to end excessive force and lift movement restrictions blocking access to essential services and humanitarian aid, and scaling up support for displaced and isolated communities across the West Bank.” 
     

    *name changed to protect our colleague’s identity.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Video: The EU-Canada Summit, 2025, Brussels

    Source: European Commission (video statements)

    On 23 June 2025, during the the EU-Canada Summit, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will hold a press conference together with António Costa, President of the European Council, and Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada.

    The summit is an opportunity to enhance the EU-Canada strategic partnership and for leaders to reinforce their cooperation at different levels, from trade to economic security, energy, crisis management, and justice and home affairs, in light of the rapidly changing geopolitical and economic context.

    The EU-Canada Security and Defence Partnership is expected to be agreed. Leaders will also issue a joint statement.

    Follow live events and access media content here:
    https://audiovisual.ec.europa.eu/en/

    Stay updated — follow us on X: https://x.com/EC_AVService

    Follow us on:
    -X: https://twitter.com/EU_Commission
    -Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/europeancommission/
    -Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EuropeanCommission
    -LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/european-commission/
    -Medium: https://medium.com/@EuropeanCommission

    Check our website: http://ec.europa.eu/

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L0KCSNDwqG8

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Initiative Marianne

    Source: France-Diplomatie – Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Development

    Presentation

    In 2021, French President Emmanuel Macron announced the launch of the Marianne Initiative for human rights defenders, aimed at better supporting them in their fight, both abroad and in France.

    The Marianne Association for Human Rights Defenders was created to federate the actors involved in our country (State, organisations and associations for the promotion of human rights and reception, local authorities, qualified personalities, etc.) and to carry the initiative’s support pillar in France, for the benefit of about fifteen laureates per year (reception, personalised support, networking, etc.).

    “France is and will remain a land of welcome for human rights defenders

    Après la réception d’une première promotion exclusivement féminine en 2022, trois nouvelles promotions mixtes se sont suite ensuite succédées, en 2023, 2024 et plus récemment 2025.

    Some fifteen men and women from every continent have been welcomed to France for six months as part of the Initiative. The winners benefit from a training program designed to strengthen their skills and commitment in their home country or in France, whether in favor of civil and political rights, women’s rights, minority rights or environmental rights.

    A look back at past years

    “The protection of human rights is more than ever a topical battle, in a context where repression is multiplying in every corner of the world”.

    Emmanuel Macron – President of the Republic, at the launch of the second promotion

    “Fundamental human rights are under increasing threat around the world. On this international day, I wanted to launch the Marianne Initiative for Human Rights Defenders. To take these rights everywhere. To protect and support its defenders.”

    Emmanuel Macron – President of the Republic, on Human Rights Day 2021

    Read more

    MIL OSI Europe News –