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  • MIL-OSI USA: Markey Joins Welch, 28 Colleagues in Introducing Senate Resolution Decrying Two-Month Blockade on Food and Medicine in Gaza

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey
    Washington (May 15, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) today joined Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) and 28 of their Senate colleagues in introducing a resolution calling on the Trump Administration to use all diplomatic tools at its disposal to bring an end to the blockade of food and lifesaving humanitarian aid to address the needs of civilians in Gaza. In their resolution, the Senators express grave concern about the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, including the imminent starvation of tens of thousands of children.  
    On March 2, 2025, the Israeli Government began blocking all food and emergency aid—including food, medicine, infant formula, fuel, and other lifesaving humanitarian supplies—from reaching Palestinian civilians in Gaza. In the same month, all 25 World Food Program (WFP)-supported bakeries in Gaza closed, wheat flour and cooking fuel ran out, and food parcels distributed to families—with two weeks of food rations—were depleted. According to the United Nations, about 10,000 children have been identified as suffering from acute malnutrition since January 2025.  
    Joining the resolution are Senate Minority Whip Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Senators Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Angus King (I-Maine), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.). 
    The Senators’ resolution is supported by Anera, the Friends Committee on National Legislation, J Street, and Oxfam America. 
    “In Gaza today, children are starving, hospitals are collapsing, and families are in a state of desperation. This resolution is a call to conscience, a moment of moral reckoning. Will the world be complicit in Gaza’s collapse, or part of its recovery? We call on the U.S. government in the strongest terms to act swiftly, using all the leverage at its disposal, to urgently permit humanitarian organizations to deliver aid into Gaza. This resolution is a critical step in the right direction,” said Sean Carroll, President and CEO, Anera. 
    “The crisis in Gaza has reached a breaking point, with over two months of a total blockade cutting off food, water, fuel, and medical supplies. More than two million Palestinians are trapped, starving, and facing a potential famine that could claim thousands of lives. It’s encouraging to see Senator Welch and his colleagues introduce a resolution highlighting this urgent humanitarian suffering. Congress and the Trump Administration must use every diplomatic tool available to demand the immediate, full reopening of Gaza’s borders to deliver life-saving aid,” said Hassan El-Tayyab, Legislative Director for Middle East Policy, Friends Committee on National Legislation. 
    “This resolution comes at a moment of moral reckoning, as conditions in Gaza have become even more unbearable,” said Jeremy Ben-Ami, President, J Street. “Children are surviving on one meal every few days. To deliberately starve civilians is immoral. To use water, fuel, food as tools of war is unconscionable. Humanitarian aid must immediately be allowed to enter Gaza unconditionally.” 
    “The more than two-month-long siege, with no aid being allowed to enter, has now pushed nearly the entire population in Gaza to the brink of starvation. Every day, parents wake up and spend their days searching for something to feed their children – often coming back with nothing. Humanitarian organizations know how to reach the people who most urgently need food, water, medical care, and other lifesaving essentials when we have supplies and can do our work safely, but right now we can’t. We are in a race against time, and we need action from U.S. leaders to allow us to do our jobs, keep pushing for a permanent, immediate ceasefire, humanitarian access and an end to the siege, and a return of all hostages and unlawfully detained prisoners,” said Abby Maxman, President and CEO, Oxfam America. 
    Read and download the full text of the resolution. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Markey Joins Van Hollen, Shaheen, Colleagues in Warning Rubio Abandoning U.S. Global Leadership on Human Rights Makes America, World Less Safe

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey
    Washington (May 15, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) today joined Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Ranking Member Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) and 12 of their colleagues in pressing Secretary of State Marco Rubio on the Administration’s retreat from longstanding efforts to promote human rights and democracy worldwide. In their letter, the Senators stress that dismantling offices and scaling back reports focused on human rights conditions, among other actions, threaten the United States’ credibility and moral authority — strategic assets that help us advance peace, prosperity, and security at home and around the world. Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and Peter Welch (D-Vt.) cosigned the letter. 
    “We write with grave concerns regarding ongoing moves at the State Department to abandon U.S. leadership on human rights. Demoting the department’s standalone human rights and democracy bureau, shutting down many of its offices, and severely scaling back the annual human rights reports would undermine America’s standing as a champion for human rights globally. A foreign policy rooted in American values, including support for human rights, is about more than just moral leadership – it is about using our influence to create a more peaceful and prosperous world where U.S. national security interests can flourish,” the Senators began.
    The Senators quote Secretary Rubio’s previous statements on this issue, writing, “Mr. Secretary, you yourself have said: ‘For over two centuries, the world has been a better place because America has strived to defend these fundamental human rights both at home and abroad. The State Department’s annual human rights report sheds light on foreign governments’ failure to respect their citizens’ fundamental rights.’”
    The Senators go on to note several of the harmful proposed changes put forward by the State Department, including relegating the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor, sunsetting of the Office of Global Criminal Justice, and politicizing the annual Country Reports on Human Rights Practices.
    “The proposed changes to gut the State Department’s standalone human rights bureau and to emaciate and politicize the United States’ signature human rights reports – alongside dramatic cuts to U.S. funding to advance freedom and democracy – are a retreat from America’s global leadership to advance freedom in the world. America’s standing as a champion for human rights globally relies on a commitment to holding friends and foes alike accountable to the same standards. When the United States conveniently wields human rights principles as a political cudgel against our adversaries, but does not apply those same standards to our allies, countries like China and Russia are quick to point out such hypocrisy, and American influence on the world stage drops precipitously. Making America safer, stronger, and more prosperous requires embracing human rights as a pillar of U.S. foreign policy and dedicating resources to support that cause,” the Senators concluded.
    The full text of the letter is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How Tove Jansson used her Moomins comic strip to critique the financial and creative pressures of being an artist

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Elina Druker, Professor in Department of Culture and Aesthetics, Stockholm University

    In 1954, the Finnish artist Tove Jansson was commissioned by the Evening News in London to draw comic strips about the Moomintrolls. The strip was syndicated by hundreds of newspapers, introducing the Moomins to an international audience and marking a dramatic turning point in her career.

    Between 1954 and 1959, Tove Jansson drew 21 comics, some in collaboration with her brother Lars Jansson, who continued to draw the comic strip until 1975.

    The success of the Moomin in the Evening News brought Tove Jansson economic security and helped her with the mortgage of her studio in Helsinki. However, over time, the assignment also became a burden on her creative work – a time-consuming and demanding obligation.

    Perhaps because of this personal conflict, the comics often explore themes such as the struggle of artistic creation, the role of the artist and the value of art. Jansson had previously created humorous and satirical commentaries on the art world in various artists’ magazines in Finland, but here she places the Moomin at the heart of the creative process.

    Unlike the novels and picture books, the Moomin comic strips were created for adults and can be described as satire. Jansson uses the compact format to comment on society, including the art world. The growing conflict in her own life, between the Moomintrolls and her artwork, is brought into focus in the comic strips.

    This is part of a series of articles celebrating the 80th anniversary of the Moomins. Want to celebrate their birthday with us? Join The Conversation and a group of experts on May 23 in Bradford for a screening of Moomins on the Riviera and a discussion of the refugee experience in Tove Jansson’s work. Click here for more information and tickets.

    The theme of the purpose of art and artistic creation is playfully introduced in one of the first comic strips, Moomin and the Brigands. Here Moomin and his friend Sniff embark on a quest for fortune. They engage in several schemes, including capturing rare creatures and selling them to the zoo, marketing magic rejuvenation potions and creating modern art.

    While visiting a Hemulen (a really uptight counterpart to the Moomintrolls who love rules), Moomin and Sniff accidentally break several precious items in her home. Among the broken objects is a large statue of Rebecca at the Well, which falls from its pedestal and shatters. Rebecca at the Well is a classic biblical motif, which often portrays a model of feminine virtue, symbolising divine guidance and exemplifying ideals of hospitality and moral character.

    The friends awkwardly attempt to reassemble the statue by gluing it together. The result is a strangely angular and expressive piece of art, referencing fragmented cubist portraits. Cubism, which emerged around 1907 to 1908, aimed to represent reality in a radically new way by bringing together subjects and figures, resulting in objects that appear fragmented and abstracted.

    Sniff immediately sees the potential of the new Rebecca. “She’s more modern now,” he exclaims joyfully. The friends carry the statue to an enthusiastic art dealer who sells it for £500 in his gallery.

    The episode with the deconstructed Rebecca is, of course, a funny caricature of the trend-sensitive art market. But the shattered statue with its intricate shapes was also a commentary on the debates about the “incomprehensible” and “obscure” nature of modernist art in Nordic countries during the time.

    The destruction of the Rebecca can also be seen as an act of iconoclasm – the breaking of icons or monuments – or rather, a parody of it. While usually associated with vandalism, here, the iconoclastic act leads to the creation of something new. This expresses a desire for renewal and a liberation from restrictive conventions. It is, however, worth noting that Rebecca retains her symbol of virtue – the water jug – even after this pivotal encounter.

    Drawing on the work of French philosopher and anthropologist Bruno Latour, iconoclasm can be understood as both destructive and constructive – an ambiguity that also applies to Jansson’s interpretation of the motif.

    Later in the story, the money offered by the modernist Rebecca lures Moomin to the field of the arts. For a brief moment, he assumes the role of a painter and wholeheartedly embodies the romanticised ideal of the poor, misunderstood artist.

    Moomin dons a Rembrandtian black velvet beret, but despite this, appears lost and bewildered in his new role, muttering: “I only want to live in peace and plant potatoes and dream!”

    In a scene of self-parodying metafiction, he is blinded by his oversized beret and ends up tumbling down a cliff, abruptly ending his artistic career.

    Tove Jansson’s Moomin comic strips for the Evening News use satire to explore artistic creation, the role of the artist, and the art world.

    Through Moomintroll’s and Sniff’s pursuit of fame and fortune via the accidental modernist deconstruction of Rebecca, Jansson satirises romantic notions of the artist, the commercialisation of art and the professions surrounding artistic production. These themes are deeply connected to Jansson’s own experiences as an artist and author, constantly balancing between various professional and artistic demands, between children’s books, public obligations and painting.

    Elina Druker is employed as a professor and researcher at Stockholm University, Sweden.

    – ref. How Tove Jansson used her Moomins comic strip to critique the financial and creative pressures of being an artist – https://theconversation.com/how-tove-jansson-used-her-moomins-comic-strip-to-critique-the-financial-and-creative-pressures-of-being-an-artist-256287

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: What do MPs really think about immigration? We surveyed them to find out

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Mitya Pearson, Assistant Professor, Politics of Climate Change, University of Warwick

    Yvette Cooper, the home secretary, gives a statement to MPs on immigration reform. House of Commons/Flickr, CC BY-NC-ND

    The UK government has unveiled plans to reform the migration system, making it more restrictive with the aim of reducing the level of net migration into Britain.

    Immigration provides economic opportunities for a country – for example, migration enables employers to recruit the workers they need. This is particularly true in essential but low-paid sectors such as social care and agriculture. Reducing net migration may mean trading off some of these economic benefits.

    The UK government’s official economic forecaster, the Office for Budget Responsibility, tends to assume that higher net migration has a positive impact on economic growth and tax receipts.

    It is notable, then, that a government elected to make economic growth its primary mission, which has struggled to keep the public finances in line with its fiscal rules, is making policy choices that could make both objectives more challenging. Some have argued that the government’s immigration plans are a sign it has abandoned its goal of boosting economic growth above all other objectives.

    We have just published new research that partly explains this decision. We conducted a survey of 103 MPs and 1,757 local councillors, and compared the attitudes of British politicians with those of members of the public.

    We polled Westminster MPs on what they think about the level of migration into the UK. The timing of this polling matched up exactly with a public poll YouGov had conducted. This enabled us to draw a direct comparison between the two groups.

    We found that broadly, MPs and the public are in agreement on this issue. Both clearly tend to think immigration has been too high in recent years. However, the public (70% support) are even more inclined towards this view than MPs (just under 60% support), and less likely than MPs to think that immigration levels have been “about right” in recent years.


    Author provided, CC BY

    Despite these results, the long-term trend on public attitudes to migration has moved in a more liberal direction. Over decades, the British public has generally become more positive about the benefits of migration.

    However, this is complicated by the fact that anti-immigration voters are often more exercised about the issue than pro-immigration voters. Anti-immigration voters are also more efficiently distributed across a large number of constituencies, whereas more liberal pro-immigration voters are often more concentrated in seats in larger cities.

    Reform UK’s performance in the recent local elections demonstrates the electoral potency of anti-immigration sentiment among some voters.



    Read more:
    What Britons and Europeans really think about immigration – new analysis

    Growth at all costs?

    Ipsos also recently published some interesting polling of MPs and the public. This showed that when it comes to issues such as increased housebuilding and immigration, MPs tended to be more willing than the public to prioritise boosting economic growth over other objectives (such as limiting immigration). Although, MPs were more willing than the public to prioritise protecting the environment over economic growth.

    When Labour was elected into government in 2024, Keir Starmer emphasised the party’s focus on boosting growth. A whole tranche of new Labour MPs were elected with an apparent commitment to this, and many subsequently joined the Labour Growth Group caucus.

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    Such a shift in the composition of who is in the Westminster parliament has enabled substantial policy shifts in a pro-growth direction. For example, some recent Conservative prime ministers would arguably have liked to implement the type of reforms in the current government’s planning and infrastructure bill, but were unable to principally because of resistance among their backbench MPs.

    However, as we’ve explained, polling shows that the public is not always as willing as the current crop of MPs to sign up to things just because they might boost economic growth. There is also a substantial section of the population who would like to see immigration reduced.

    The government’s new white paper setting out its proposed immigration reforms eschews a simple relationship between higher immigration and greater economic prosperity. It emphasises the difference between boosting overall GDP and the size of the labour market versus productivity and per capita GDP, and criticises an economic model reliant on record levels of net migration into the UK.

    Nonetheless, it appears that Labour has diluted its attempt to govern in a purely pro-growth manner in order to respond to public opinion.

    Mitya Pearson the University of Warwick. He has received funding from the British Academy and Leverhulme Trust.

    David Jeffery does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. What do MPs really think about immigration? We surveyed them to find out – https://theconversation.com/what-do-mps-really-think-about-immigration-we-surveyed-them-to-find-out-256856

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Starmer announces migration ‘return hubs’ on Albania visit, but Albania doesn’t want them – what’s going on?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Andi Hoxhaj, Lecturer in Law, King’s College London

    Keir Starmer became the first British prime minister to visit Albania since the two countries established diplomatic relations in 1921. During the visit, he announced that the UK plans to set up “return hubs” for asylum seekers whose claims are rejected by the UK.

    Just days after announcing his plans to reduce legal migration to the UK, this move on irregular migration is more evidence of the prime minister’s concern about losing voters to anti-immigration Reform UK.

    Before meeting with Albanian prime minister Edi Rama to sign a strategic partnership agreement between the two countries, Starmer said that the UK has begun formal talks with several countries to set up return migration hubs to send asylum seekers abroad. The specifics are yet to be announced, but it has been reported that these would probably be in the western Balkans.

    The plan has drawn comparison to the Conservative government’s Rwanda scheme, but is different in a number of ways.

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

    Under the Rwanda scheme, people who arrived in the UK illegally would have been sent straight to Rwanda where their asylum claims would be processed. If accepted, they’d be offered asylum in Rwanda, not the UK. Starmer cancelled the plan in one of his first moves as prime minister.

    With Labour’s plan, people would only be sent to another country if their asylum claim is rejected and they’ve exhausted all legal options to stay in the UK. The rationale is that they would not be able to disappear into the informal economy and illegal actives in the UK after an asylum claim was not successful.

    The goal of both plans is to act as a deterrent to irregular migration, and to cut the high cost of hosting undocumented migrants and asylum seekers in the UK, which has become a major political issue.

    The return hubs plan also has the approval of the UN refugee agency, which condemned the legality of and the practically of the Rwanda scheme.

    However, it has already hit a roadblock. Albania was one of the UK’s preferred options for a return migration hub. But during a joint press conference with Starmer, Rama said that Albania will not take part in such a scheme.

    This is probably because a similar set-up with Italy has so far been unworkable, legally and politically .

    Under the Italy-Albania migration agreement signed in November 2023, Albania is meant to play host to two Italian processing centres, where they planned to send asylum seekers intercepted at sea. But after facing numerous legal challenges, Italy is instead using them as repatriation facilities to hold those whose claims have already been rejected while they await deportation.

    Partnership with Albania

    The UK has maintained a successful returns arrangement with Albania, set up by the last government.

    In 2022, Albanians accounted for over one-third (around 12,500) of all small boat entries, more than any other country. Arrivals from Albania have dropped by 95% in the last three years. And the number of Albanians returned to the country has more than doubled in the last two years, with 5,294 Albanians returning in 2024.

    The two countries set up a joint task force to tackle organised crime networks that were facilitating the illegal entry of Albanian nationals to the UK. Starmer began his visit at the Port of Durres, where British and Albanian law enforcement officials are stationed as part of the Joint Migration Task Force with Albania.

    Starmer indicated that the task force will be expanded to include the other western Balkan countries. This is because the western Balkan route is one of the main migratory paths into Europe. It was estimated that in 2023, 100,000 people used this route to come to the UK.

    The visit, which comes days after Albania’s parliamentary election, shines a light on some of the political tensions between the UK and Albania.

    The Albanian diaspora community in the UK in recent years has expressed feeling stigmatised and targeted due to inflammatory rhetoric of the last government.

    Suella Braverman, the former home secretary, called Albanians “criminals” while claiming migrants were “invading” the UK. Robert Jenrick, the former immigration minister, posted videos telling police to find Albanians and “lock them up” and “deport” them.

    In 2024, Albanians made up the highest percentage (13%) of foreign nationals in UK prisons, with over 1,272 people in custody. Along with Albanians, Polish (9%), Romanian (7%), Irish (6%) and Jamaican (4%) nationals account for around 12% of the overall prison population.

    Rama, who just won the election, was fully aware of voters’ sentiment towards the UK. There have also been protests in the country against the current migration arrangement with Italy. Any new agreement, particularly with the UK, could be politically damaging for the Albanian government.

    This visit could be a turning point for mending relations. Starmer declared that his government is fully committed to strengthening ties with Albania, and signed a strategic partnership agreement, with a focus defence and security.

    Starmer and Rama both said that the partnership will expand at the UK-Western Balkan Summit that Starmer will host in London in autumn, and it will include increasing trade, economics investment, education and managing migration.

    Andi Hoxhaj does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Starmer announces migration ‘return hubs’ on Albania visit, but Albania doesn’t want them – what’s going on? – https://theconversation.com/starmer-announces-migration-return-hubs-on-albania-visit-but-albania-doesnt-want-them-whats-going-on-256831

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Gabe Vasquez Honors Fallen New Mexico Officers and Las Cruces Police Chief Jeremy Story During National Police Week

    Source: US Representative Gabe Vasquez’s (NM-02)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – During National Police Week, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02)delivered remarks on the House floor honoring three New Mexico law enforcement officers who are being added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial wall and recognizing the leadership of Las Cruces Police Chief Jeremy Story.

     

    WATCH: VASQUEZ FLOOR REMARKS

     

    “Every day, across our country and in my home state, law enforcement officers wake up, put on the badge, and commit themselves to protecting our neighbors,” said Vasquez. “It is a calling that demands bravery, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication. This week, we remember those who answered that call and never returned home.”

    This year, three fallen New Mexico officers are being recognized on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington:

    • Corrections Officer Roberto Rodriguez, Doña Ana County
    • Patrol Officer Jonah Hernandez, Las Cruces Police Department
    • Patrolman Justin C. Hare, New Mexico State Police

    Vasquez also recognized the following fallen officers: 

    • Police officer J.R. Stewart, Las Cruces Police Department
    • Police Officer Bianca Quintana, Albuquerque Police Department
    • Police officer Anthony “Tony” Ferguson, Alamogordo Police Department
    • Patrolman James M Sides, Alamogordo Police Department
    • State Police Officer Darian Jarrott, New Mexico State Police Department
    • Sheriff Michael Reeves, Curry County 

    Rep. Vasquez also called for stronger federal support for active law enforcement officers, emphasizing the need to invest in officer safety, mental health, and family well-being.

    In addition, Vasquez recognized Chief Jeremy Story of the Las Cruces Police Department for his exemplary leadership in times of crisis and ongoing dedication to public service.

    “Earlier this year, our community faced a horrific mass shooting—an act of senseless violence that shook Las Cruces to its core,” said Vasquez. “Chief Story responded swiftly and with compassion. His leadership was grounded in facts and empathy. He showed up—not just to lead, but to help us begin to heal.”

    Chief Story, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and New Mexico State University graduate, was named Citizen of the Year by the Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce this May.

    “On behalf of all New Mexicans, I thank Chief Jeremy Story for his continued leadership and unwavering commitment to the people of Las Cruces,” said Vasquez.

    National Police Week honors law enforcement officers nationwide who have died in the line of duty and recognizes those who continue to serve their communities with bravery and professionalism.

     

    ###

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Upcoming Belarusian-Russian military exercises “West-2025” are defensive in nature – President of Belarus

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    MINSK, May 16 /Xinhua/ — The upcoming joint Belarusian-Russian military exercises “Zapad-2025” are defensive in nature. This was stated on Friday by Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko at a meeting with Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov in Minsk. The corresponding information was published by the press service of the Belarusian head of state.

    “I want to say that we are ready for the exercises. We are not hiding anything from anyone. We are truly demonstrating openness, that these exercises are ours and are defensive in nature. And we are not going to attack anyone, as some people think. We have made a decision at the presidential level to conduct the exercises,” A. Lukashenko noted.

    During the meeting, the President of Belarus also thanked Russia for training the Belarusian military on par with the Russians. “This is very important, we value it very much. Because this is the highest level of trust. After all, this is security, defense. And here Russia does not protect itself from Belarus. Russia does not have such interaction with anyone. We value this very much,” A. Lukashenko summed up.

    Joint Belarusian-Russian military exercises “West-2025” are planned to be held in mid-September of this year. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven, Transportation Secretary Discuss North Dakota’s Role in Meeting the Nation’s Aviation Needs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven
    05.16.25
    Senator Invites Secretary Duffy to North Dakota to See Grand Sky, Learn about Counter-Drone Efforts Firsthand
    WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven this week discussed with Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, North Dakota’s role in meeting key priorities to ensure safe and efficient air travel in the U.S. airspace. Hoeven outlined the work of the University of North Dakota (UND) and his efforts to leverage the school’s expertise in order to:
    Help meet the nation’s need for air traffic controllers (ATC).
    Hoeven worked with UND and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to secure the school’s role in the Enhanced Air Traffic-Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) program.
    Under this initiative, UND graduates are immediately eligible for hire and to begin localized training at an air traffic facility, bypassing the FAA Academy in Oklahoma.
    Now, Hoeven is sponsoring the ATC Workforce Development Act to strengthen the Enhanced AT-CTI program and further improve controller recruitment and retention.
    Secretary Duffy agreed to work with Hoeven on expanding capacity for ATC training and expressed support for the bill.

    Ensure the U.S. has enough qualified pilots to meet future demand.
    Hoeven highlighted UND’s Vets2Wings program, which expands flight training for veterans and helps cover costs not included under the GI Bill or the Department of Defense’s Federal Tuition Assistance Program.
    Hoeven initially secured $2.5 million to establish the program and then passed his American Aviator Act to authorize the program at the FAA through Fiscal Year (FY) 2028.
    The senator stated that initiatives like this help address the need for commercial airline pilots and requested that the secretary work with him on making the program permanent.

    In addition, Hoeven invited Secretary Duffy to visit North Dakota and learn firsthand about the state’s counter-drone efforts at Grand Sky and the Northern Plains Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Test Site. Hoeven stressed the need to finish linking the FAA’s unfiltered radar data feed with the test site to empower this work, which is needed to protect against the malicious use of UAS.
    “North Dakota is home to the largest flight school in the country and plays a growing role in ATC training with the Enhanced AT-CTI Program at UND. Considering the challenges faced by our aviation industry, it is critical that we work to remove bottlenecks in training for air traffic controllers. That’s exactly what we’ve worked to do at UND, and our ATC Workforce Development Act will take these efforts even further,” said Hoeven. “Our state is also leading the way in developing counter-drone technologies, an increasingly important national security priority. The FAA’s radar data feed will enhance our test site’s ability to identify potentially threatening systems, a critical part of keeping the national airspace secure from dangerous UAS. I appreciate Secretary Duffy’s willingness to help complete the process of sharing the unfiltered radar data, as well as his agreement to visit North Dakota and learn more about the important work we’re doing at UND, Grand Sky and the test site.”
    Advancing Counter-Drone Technologies
                Hoeven is working to realize new opportunities in the Grand Forks region for developing counter-drone technologies to protect against emerging threats resulting from the misuse of UAS. To this end, Hoeven continues his efforts to:
    Increase the size and scope of Project ULTRA to support counter-UAS technology development.
    By increasing the project’s contract ceiling, it can serve as a bridge between an existing DoD contracting vehicle and new counter-UAS capabilities being developed in the private sector.

    Secure access for the Northern Plains UAS Test Site to the FAA unfiltered radar data feed, which is currently in process.
    Once completed, it will use the feed to enhance efforts to detect, identify and track malicious UAS.
    Between Project ULTRA and the FAA radar data, Grand Forks will be uniquely positioned to develop methods for protecting domestic U.S. military bases against potential UAS threats.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Coons, Shaheen, Reed, Warner, Kelly, Himes, Krishnamoorthi statement on Trump’s Middle East AI giveaway

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), and Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), as well as Congressmen Jim Himes (D-Conn.) and Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-Ill.) issued the following statement in response to President Trump’s artificial intelligence deals that were announced with the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia this week:
    “Democrats and Republicans have long agreed that American companies must remain the undisputed leader in AI, a rapidly developing technology critical to the future of everything from our national security to manufacturing, finance to health care. We have worked hard to ensure the most powerful AI systems are built here, and we have fought to restrict the most sophisticated chips from reaching China – or those who would grant remote access to China – given Beijing’s use of AI to strengthen its military, crack down on domestic dissent, and compete with the U.S.
    “President Trump announced deals to export very large volumes of advanced AI chips to the UAE and Saudi Arabia without credible security assurances to prevent U.S. adversaries from accessing those chips. These deals pose a significant threat to U.S. national security and fundamentally undermine bipartisan efforts to ensure the United States remains the global leader in AI. Rather than putting America first, this deal puts the Gulf first.
    “The volume of AI chips Trump is offering for export would deprive American AI developers of highly sought-after chips needed here and slow the U.S. AI buildout. Under this deal, data centers and AI systems that would otherwise be built in America will be built in the Middle East – at the exact time that President Trump says he wants to bring jobs and key industries back home. This deal would incentivize U.S. firms to build the factories of the future overseas, creating significant vulnerabilities in our AI supply chain. If our leading AI firms offshore their frontier computing infrastructure to the Middle East, we could become as reliant on the Middle East for AI as we are on Taiwan for advanced semiconductors – and as we used to be on the Middle East for oil. We should not foster new dependencies on foreign countries for this premier technology.
    “Additionally, these deals will provide our highest end chips to G42, a company with a well-documented history of cooperation with the People’s Republic of China. We applaud the administration’s efforts to limit exports of advanced AI chips to China, including recent actions to further restrict exports of Nvidia chips. However, these efforts will be for nothing if G42 or other companies with ties to China are given large quantities of our most advanced chips. 
    “Proponents of the deal argue that China will fill the gap if we do not sell substantial quantities of advanced chips to these countries. This is false. China cannot and will not because China makes fewer chips as a nation than these deals offer, and each is inferior to their U.S.-designed equivalent. This is thanks to the bipartisan efforts under both the Trump and Biden administrations to cut off China’s access to advanced chip manufacturing equipment. These efforts have worked, and we should double down on this success rather than squander the leverage we have won.
    “If this deal succeeds, the offshoring of frontier American AI will be recorded as an historic American blunder. People around the world deserve to enjoy the benefits we will reap from AI. However, AI chips must only be exported to trusted companies, in reasonable numbers, and in concert with credible security standards and assurances. We welcome the opportunity to work with the administration to meet these objectives and urge our colleagues in Congress to do the same.”
    Senator Coons is Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense. Senator Shaheen is Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Senator Reed is Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee. Senator Warner is Vice Chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee. Senator Kelly is a member of the Senate Intelligence Committee. Congressman Himes is Ranking Member of the House Intelligence Committee. Congressman Krishnamoorthi is Ranking Member of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 1578, Veterans Claims Education Act of 2025

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    Bill Summary

    H.R. 1578 would require the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to inform veterans and their survivors about accredited individuals and organizations that may be able to help them with claims for VA benefits. The bill also would extend the reduction of pension payments for veterans and survivors who reside in Medicaid nursing homes.

    Estimated Federal Cost

    The estimated budgetary effect of H.R. 1578 is shown in Table 1. The costs of the legislation fall within budget functions 550 (health) and 700 (veterans benefits and services).

    Table 1.

    Estimated Budgetary Effects of H.R. 1578
     

    By Fiscal Year, Millions of Dollars

    		    
     

    2025

    2026

    2027

    2028

    2029

    2030

    2031

    2032

    2033

    2034

    2035

    2025-2030

    2025-2035
     

    Increases or Decreases (-) in Direct Spending

    		    

    Estimated Budget Authority

    *

    1

    *

    1

    *

    *

    1

    -16

    *

    *

    1

    2

    -12

    Estimated Outlays

    *

    1

    *

    1

    *

    *

    1

    -16

    *

    *

    1

    2

    -12
     

    Increases in Spending Subject to Appropriation

    		    

    Estimated Authorization

    1

    4

    1

    *

    1

    1

    *

    1

    1

    1

    *

    8

    11

    Estimated Outlays

    *

    3

    3

    *

    1

    1

    *

    1

    1

    1

    *

    8

    11

    Basis of Estimate

    For this estimate, CBO assumes that H.R. 1578 will be enacted in fiscal year 2025 and that outlays will follow historical spending patterns for affected programs.

    Provisions that Affect Spending Subject to Appropriation and Direct Spending

    Section 2 would require VA to provide additional information about VA-accredited individuals and organizations. Specifically, VA must:

    • Maintain an online tool that allows people claiming VA benefits to search for accredited representatives that may assist with those claims;
    • Notify applicants for VA benefits about VA-accredited representation if the claimant’s initial application does not indicate they have such representation; and
    • On each web page of the department through which an individual may file a benefits claim, provide information about limitations on fees that potential representatives may charge applicants.

    The department maintains a web portal through which claimants can search for accredited representation for benefit claims. Thus, that requirement would have no budgetary effect. Using information from the department, CBO estimates that VA would require additional information technology (IT) resources to notify claimants of available representation and to update each affected website with information on fee limitations. On the basis of that information, CBO estimates that upgrades and maintenance to the IT system would cost $15 million over the 2025-2035 period.

    CBO expects that some of the costs of implementing the bill would be paid from the Toxic Exposures Fund (TEF) established by Public Law 117-168, the Honoring our PACT Act. The TEF is a mandatory appropriation that VA uses to pay for health care, disability claims processing, medical research, and IT modernization that benefit veterans who were exposed to environmental hazards. Additional spending from the TEF would occur if legislation increases the costs of similar activities that benefit veterans with such exposure. Thus, in addition to increasing spending subject to appropriation, enacting section 2 would increase amounts paid from the TEF, which are classified as direct spending.

    CBO projects that the proportion of costs paid by the TEF will grow over time based on the amount of formerly discretionary appropriations that CBO expects will be provided through the mandatory appropriation as specified in the Honoring our PACT Act. CBO estimates that over the 2025-2035 period, implementing section 2 would increase spending subject to appropriation by $11 million and direct spending by $4 million.

    Direct Spending

    In addition to expanding benefits that would partly be covered by the TEF, CBO estimates that enacting the bill would affect direct spending by reducing pension payments to veterans and survivors who reside in Medicaid nursing homes. In total, the bill would decrease net direct spending by $12 million over the 2025‑2035 period

    Under current law, VA reduces pension payments to veterans and survivors who reside in Medicaid nursing homes to $90 per month. That required reduction expires November 30, 2031. Section 3 would extend that reduction for four months, through March 31, 2032. CBO estimates that extending that requirement would reduce VA benefits by $10 million per month. (Those benefits are paid from mandatory appropriations and are therefore considered direct spending.) As a result of that reduction in beneficiaries’ income, Medicaid would pay more of the cost of their care, increasing spending for that program by $6 million per month. Thus, enacting section 3 would reduce net direct spending by $16 million over the 2025-2035 period.

    Pay-As-You-Go Considerations

    The Statutory Pay-As-You-Go Act of 2010 establishes budget-reporting and enforcement procedures for legislation affecting direct spending or revenues. The net changes in outlays that are subject to those pay-as-you-go procedures are shown in Table 1.

    Increase in Long-Term Net Direct Spending and Deficits

    CBO estimates that enacting H.R. 1578 would not increase net direct spending by more than $2.5 billion in any of the four consecutive 10-year periods beginning in 2036.

    CBO estimates that enacting H.R. 1578 would not increase on‑budget deficits by more than $5 billion in any of the four consecutive 10-year periods beginning in 2036.

    Mandates

    The bill contains no intergovernmental or private-sector mandates as defined in the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act.

    Federal Costs: Logan Smith

    Mandates: Lucy Marret

    Estimate Reviewed By

    David Newman
    Chief, Defense, International Affairs, and Veterans’ Affairs Cost Estimates Unit

    Christina Hawley Anthony
    Deputy Director of Budget Analysis

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 1969, No Wrong Door for Veterans Act

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    Bill Summary

    H.R. 1969 would extend the Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) through fiscal year 2026 and authorize appropriations for that purpose. The bill also would clarify that VA may provide adaptive prosthetic devices for sports and recreational activities as a medical service. Finally, the bill would extend a temporary limitation on certain pension payments through January 2033.

    Estimated Federal Cost

    The estimated budgetary effects of H.R. 1969 are shown in Table 1. The costs of the legislation fall within budget functions 550 (health) and 700 (veterans benefits and services).

    Table 1.

    Estimated Budgetary Effects of H.R.1969
     

    By Fiscal Year, Millions of Dollars

    		    
     

    2025

    2026

    2027

    2028

    2029

    2030

    2031

    2032

    2033

    2034

    2035

    2025-2030

    2025-2035
     

    Increases or Decreases (-) in Direct Spending

    		    

    Estimated Budget Authority

    0

    10

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    -40

    -16

    0

    0

    10

    -46

    Estimated Outlays

    0

    9

    1

    0

    0

    0

    0

    -40

    -16

    0

    0

    10

    -46
     

    Increases in Spending Subject to Appropriation

    		    

    Estimated Authorization

    0

    43

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    43

    43

    Estimated Outlays

    0

    39

    4

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    43

    43

    Basis of Estimate

    For this estimate, CBO assumes that H.R. 1969 will be enacted in fiscal year 2025 and that outlays will follow historical spending patterns for affected programs.

    Provisions that Affect Spending Subject to Appropriation and Direct Spending

    Section 2 of the bill would reauthorize the Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program through fiscal year 2026 and authorize the appropriation of $53 million for that year. The program makes grants to community organizations that provide suicide prevention services to at-risk veterans.

    CBO expects that some of the costs of implementing the bill would be paid from the Toxic Exposures Fund (TEF) established by Public Law 117-168, the Honoring our PACT Act. The TEF is a mandatory appropriation that VA uses to pay for health care, disability claims processing, medical research, and IT modernization that benefit veterans who were exposed to environmental hazards.

    Additional spending from the TEF would occur if legislation increases the costs of similar activities that benefit veterans with such exposure. CBO estimates that 19 percent of such additional funding would come from the TEF in 2026. That percentage is based on the amount of formerly discretionary appropriations that CBO projects will be provided through the mandatory appropriation as specified in the Honoring our PACT Act. CBO estimates that over the 2025-2035 period, implementing section 2 would increase spending subject to appropriation by $43 million and direct spending by $10 million.

    Direct Spending

    In addition to expanding benefits that would partly be covered by the TEF, CBO estimates that enacting the bill would affect direct spending by reducing pension payments to veterans and survivors who reside in Medicaid nursing homes. In total, the bill would decrease net direct spending by $46 million over the 2025‑2035 period

    Under current law, VA reduces pension payments to veterans and survivors who reside in Medicaid nursing homes to $90 per month. That required reduction expires November 30, 2031. Section 4 would extend that reduction for 14 months, through January 31, 2033. CBO estimates that extending that requirement would reduce VA benefits by $10 million per month. (Those benefits are paid from mandatory appropriations and are therefore considered direct spending.) As a result of that reduction in beneficiaries’ income, Medicaid would pay more of the cost of their care, increasing spending for that program by $6 million per month. Thus, enacting section 4 would reduce net direct spending by $56 million over the 2025-2035 period.

    Spending Subject to Appropriation

    The discussion above in “Provisions That Affect Spending Subject to Appropriation and Direct Spending” describes the authorization of appropriations for suicide prevention grants. That authorization would increase spending subject to appropriation by $43 million over the 2025‑2035 period.

    Section 3 would clarify that adaptive prostheses and terminal devices for sports and other recreational activities are included in the definition of medical services furnished to veterans. VA currently provides those types of adaptive devices; thus, CBO estimates that implementing section 3 would not affect the federal budget.

    Pay-As-You-Go Considerations

    The Statutory Pay-As-You-Go Act of 2010 establishes budget-reporting and enforcement procedures for legislation affecting direct spending or revenues. The net changes in outlays that are subject to those pay-as-you-go procedures are shown in Table 1.

    Increase in Long-Term Net Direct Spending and Deficits

    CBO estimates that enacting H.R. 1969 would not increase net direct spending or on‑budget deficits in any of the four consecutive 10-year periods beginning in 2036.

    Mandates

    The bill contains no intergovernmental or private-sector mandates as defined in the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act.

    Estimate Prepared By

    Federal Costs:

    Noah Callahan (for veterans health care) 
    Logan Smith (for pensions)

    Mandates: Brandon Lever

    Estimate Reviewed By

    David Newman
    Chief, Defense, International Affairs, and Veterans’ Affairs Cost Estimates Unit

    Kathleen FitzGerald 
    Chief, Public and Private Mandates Unit

    Christina Hawley Anthony
    Deputy Director of Budget Analysis

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Supporting Indigenous Peoples Across the State

    Source: US State of New York

    ew York Governor Kathy Hochul and Seneca Nation President J. Conrad Seneca announced today plans for Governor Hochul to visit Seneca Nation Territory to apologize on behalf of New York State’s role in the Thomas Indian School atrocities. The Seneca Nation is set to welcome Governor Hochul to its Cattaraugus Territory on Tuesday, May 20, when Governor Hochul will issue a long-awaited official apology to the Seneca people, as well as all former students and their descendants from various Indigenous Nations, for the State of New York’s role in the operation of the Thomas Indian School. Governor Hochul’s visit is believed to be the first time a sitting Governor has officially visited Seneca Nation Territory.

    “No words or actions will ever be able to undo the pain and suffering of the Seneca people and other Indigenous peoples across the State, but by visiting the Seneca Nation and the site of the Thomas Indian School we will mark a new day in our relations,” Governor Hochul said. “As we prepare to officially recognize the horrifying shortcomings of our past, I thank President Seneca for his advocacy on behalf of the Seneca people and his invitation to the Cattaraugus Territory, and I look forward to further strengthening the relationship between the Seneca people and the State of New York.”

    Seneca Nation President J.C. Seneca said, “The severity of the wounds inflicted on our children warrants the historical significance of our Nation welcoming Governor Hochul to the Cattaraugus Territory. The atrocities that our children suffered at the Thomas Indian School have remained hidden in the shadows for far too long. At long last, our people will hear, directly from the Governor, the words we have waited lifetimes for the State of New York to say — ‘We’re sorry.’”

    Originally established by Presbyterian missionaries on the Cattaraugus Territory in 1855, Thomas Indian School was owned and operated by the State of New York from 1875 until it closed in 1957. Thomas Indian School, and other residential boarding schools across the United States and Canada, operated under the government’s policy of forced assimilation of Native children. Thousands of children from various Indigenous Nations were separated from their families and forced to attend the school. They were stripped of the traditional language and culture, and suffered abuse, violence, hatred, and sometimes death, at the hands of school officials. Thousands of children are known to have died at the residential boarding schools. It is believed that the deaths of hundreds — if not thousands — more were never documented.

    The devastating impacts the boarding schools had on Native American families and communities, including the decimation of family structures and traditional language, are still keenly felt today.

    “I know the pain and the trauma because I have seen it and felt it in my own family, just as countless families have borne that pain and carried it every day for generations,” Seneca Nation President J.C. Seneca — whose father attended Thomas Indian School, and whose grandmother was removed from her family at age 11 and forced to attend Carlisle Indian Industrial School in Pennsylvania — said. “The Governor’s visit will be an important moment on our road to healing. In coming to our territory and apologizing to our people, the Governor can give voice to the children whose youth and innocence were stolen from them.”

    Governor Hochul’s planned visit will fulfill a pledge she made to President Seneca during a visit Nation leaders made to Albany earlier this year. It is also another example of Governor Hochul’s commitment to supporting and strengthening relationships with Indigenous peoples across the state. As part of this commitment, Governor Hochul has:

    • Convened leaders from the Indigenous Nations across New York State for a historic summit at the New York State Capitol in Albany.
    • Appointed Elizabeth Rule as the State’s First Deputy Secretary for Indigenous Nations.
    • Proposed to strengthen the stability of Indigenous Families by directing Deputy Secretary Rule to advance, in consultation with Nation leadership and stakeholders, strategies to strengthen the objectives of the Indian Child Welfare Act, underscoring New York’s commitment to redressing injustices inflicted upon Indigenous communities.
    • Ensured dental care access for Indigenous Nations including $2.5 million in funding for Indigenous Nations dental health care, with the aim of addressing gaps in access.
    • Responded to offensive representations by commencing a comprehensive review of artistic representation of Indigenous peoples in the Capitol, with invited participation from representatives from each of the nine Indigenous Nations to ensure that all New Yorkers are welcomed in the State Capitol.

    The announced visit and apology comes as the New York State Senate unanimously approved a resolution earlier this week acknowledging the State’s role in the operation of Thomas Indian School and the horrors that occurred there. President Seneca and other Nation officials and citizens were present when the resolution was read on the Senate floor and approved.

    This visit will be open to invited guests of the Seneca Nation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: North East Point — Shelburne District RCMP charge man with multiple offences including Uttering Threats, Assault

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Shelburne District RCMP has charged a man with multiple offences, including Uttering Threats.

    On May 8, at approximately 12:30 a.m., Shelburne District RCMP responded to a report of uttering threats. Responding officers learned that a man had forcefully entered a residence on Seaview Crt. in North East Point and threatened the lone female occupant known to him before fleeing in a truck.

    Officers located the vehicle a short time later and attempted a traffic stop. The suspect drove away at a high rate of speed. Officers shut off their lights and sirens, and did not pursue the vehicle, in consideration of public safety. When the truck was located a second time, officers deployed a spike belt in an attempt to stop the vehicle. Again, the driver fled. Officers did not pursue the vehicle.

    Police then located the vehicle on Hwy. 103 near Oak Park Rd. and observed the driver run into a wooded area. RCMP Police Dog Services was dispatched to assist. Upon arrival, Police Dog Services tracked the suspect a short distance and safely arrested him. During the arrest, the man threatened the police dog and officers present.

    Grant Cottreau, 27, of Spryfield (formerly of Yarmouth), was transported to Yarmouth Rural RCMP Detachment where he received medical treatment for a non-life-threatening injury due to a police service dog bite.

    Cottreau has been charged with:

    • Break and Enter

    • Flight from Peace Officer (two counts)

    • Uttering Threats (three counts)

    • Being Unlawfully in a Dwelling-house

    • Mischief (two counts)

    • Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle (two counts)

    • Failure to Comply with Order (two counts)

    He was remanded into custody and is scheduled to appear in Yarmouth Provincial Court on May 27.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Rich List shows extremely wealthy must be taxed properly

    Source: Scottish Greens

    16 May 2025 Finance

    It is time for the super-rich to pay their fair share.

    More in Finance

    The Sunday Times Rich List shows that the extremely wealthy must be fairly taxed to save our public services, say the Scottish Greens.
     
    The call comes from the party’s finance spokesperson Ross Greer MSP, as the Sunday Times list put the combined wealth of the richest 350 people – including King Charles – at £772.8 billion.
     
    According to research from the Tax Justice Network, a 1% annual wealth tax on net assets over £10 million could raise almost £10 billion a year while only impacting the richest 0.4% of the population.
     
    Mr Greer said:

    “Over the last year Labour have used claims about the lack of money to justify cuts to pensioners’ Winter Fuel Payments and essential support for disabled people. At the same time, they are refusing to act while bills for everything from food to fuel skyrocket.
     
    “This Rich List shows this claim of a lack of money for what it is, a lie designed to protect the extremely wealthy from paying their fair share. The UK is one of the richest countries in the history of the world, but Westminster governments allow that wealth to be concentrated in the hands of a handful of elites instead of serving the public good.
     
    “This is wealth they couldn’t spend in a hundred lifetimes, but which we could use to fund our hospitals, schools and the services needed to end the scandal of child poverty. Instead, it’s spent on yachts, private jets and buying up land which should belong to communities.
     
    “In Scotland, Green MSPs have already delivered the most progressive income tax system in the UK, asking those who can afford it to pay a little more and delivering an extra £1.7 billion a year for the essential services we all rely on.
     
    “But the most important tax powers, which could be used to fairly redistribute the wealth of the super-rich, are still held at Westminster. And Labour have shown that they’d prefer to take food from the mouths of children and heating from the homes of the elderly than touch the assets of their billionaire friends and donors.
     
    “Future generations will look back at this absurd concentration of wealth and the displays of excess and greed that come with it, and ask why it was allowed to get so out of control. There’s no better time than now to start reversing course. That begins by taxing wealth fairly and using the money to build a fairer, greener society.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Maskwacis — Alberta RCMP officer involved shooting in Maskwacis

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On April 24, 2025, Maskwacis RCMP were asked to assist Edmonton Police Service with the investigation and subsequent arrest of occupants who fled from a stolen vehicle into a residence in Montana First Nation, Alta. Soon after, two suspects exited the house and were arrested. The third, who was believed to be in possession of a firearm, remained in the residence. The Alberta RCMP Emergency Response Team (ERT) was called in to assist.

    Soon after 10:50 p.m., a confrontation occurred between RCMP and the suspect, resulting in at least one officer discharging their service weapon. No officers were injured during this confrontation. Soon after, the residence caught fire and no one was observed exiting. The Maskwacis Fire Department was called as soon as the fire started and are still dealing with the property.

    In compliance with legislative requirements, the Director of Law Enforcement was immediately notified causing the deployment of ASIRT to conduct an independent investigation. The RCMP believes in accountability and transparency and in so doing will provide full support to the ASIRT investigators. Events like this are difficult for everyone involved.

    Independent of ASIRT’s investigation, the RCMP’s internal review process has been implemented to gather a full account of what took place during this incident. RCMP training, policy, police response, and the officer’s duty status will be subject to review. The RCMP is, of course, fully cooperating with ASIRT. All media inquiries about this incident should now be directed to ASIRT at 780-641-9099.

    MIL Security OSI –

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    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

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    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/19b8f353-0d81-4efc-8fbf-3390c1d4dd46

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2c27a570-535f-4000-9eb6-fbee92fa98cb

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murray, DeLauro, Baldwin Call on Secretary McMahon to Promptly Inform K-12 Schools About Their Federal Funding After Harmful Delays, Uncertainty, and Chaos

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    Top Democratic appropriators call out delays in notification of federal education funding

    Washington, D.C. — Today, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (D-CT-03), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee and the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Subcommittee, and Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies, sent a letter to Secretary Linda McMahon calling out the Department’s failure to provide public K-12 schools across the nation the timely notice they usually receive about federal funding they count on—and urging McMahon to put an end to the harmful delays.

    “We write to express our concern about the delay in providing states and school districts with information about expected formula funding required to be provided to them under the fiscal year 2025 appropriations law and request you re-focus the Department of Education on fulfilling its statutory obligations in a clear, certain and timely manner,” write the lawmakers. “We believe you need to immediately change course and work in partnership with states and school districts to help them effectively use federal funds to implement the purposes and requirements of federal law to improve educational opportunities for all students.”

    The lawmakers note that, under enacted appropriations laws, “the Department must allocate formula-grant funding for multiple programs authorized by the Elementary and Secondary Education Act and Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.  The largest of these, the Title I-A grant program, will provide $18.4 billion by formula to more than 80 percent of the nation’s school districts, and is already factored into budgets for the coming school year that is only a few months away.”

    But despite this requirement to get federal K-12 funding out the door, it has taken the Department more than three times as long as the last administration to provide preliminary allocations to states and school districts after passage of fiscal year 2025 appropriations: “Yet, it took until May 13, 2025—more than 50 days after enactment of the 2025 appropriations law—for the Department to provide preliminary allocations of the amounts states and their school districts should expect to receive under the Title I-A formula grant programs for the 2025-2026 school year. This inexcusable delay is in sharp contrast with actions by the Biden administration. After President Biden signed the 2024 appropriations law on March 23, 2024, the Department provided preliminary allocations under the Title I-A program on April 8, 2024, just over two weeks after the appropriations law was signed. The Trump-McMahon Department took more than three times as much time to accomplish this basic task. We were told your Department’s work would be efficient, particularly after the reduction in force in which you reduced half of the Department’s workforce,  but that does not appear to be the case here.”

    “The delayed allocation,” the lawmakers write, “gives states less time to identify these [school support and improvement] amounts and make decisions about how best to allocate funds as allowed by federal law, which are required to be used for evidence-based interventions designed to help improve student outcomes in the lowest performing public schools in the state and lowest performing subgroups in public schools in the state.”

    The lawmakers conclude by calling on Secretary McMahon to put an end to these delays and ensure K-12 schools have the certainty and support they need in the coming school year: “We implore the Department to reverse course, stop creating chaos, provide states and school districts with information about the resources Congress provided in the 2025 appropriations law and begin to support states and their school districts in the effective implementation of federal law.  The Department’s actions to date have only imposed legally dubious policy reversals, funding cancellations, terminations and reductions, and funding directives that do nothing to support students and educators in improving student learning and outcomes.”

    Full text of the letter is available HERE and below:

    The Honorable Linda McMahon Secretary U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20202  

    Dear Secretary McMahon:

    We write to express our concern about the delay in providing states and school districts with information about expected formula funding required to be provided to them under the fiscal year 2025 appropriations law and request you re-focus the Department of Education (“Department”) on fulfilling its statutory obligations in a clear, certain and timely manner.  States and school districts are best able to plan to most effectively use federal funds with advance knowledge of expected funding, as Congress intends by providing funds on a forward-funded basis.  We have seen and heard numerous remarks from you and President Trump about returning education to the states.  However, actions to date tell a very different story about the Department’s intentions.  We believe you need to immediately change course and work in partnership with states and school districts to help them effectively use federal funds to implement the purposes and requirements of federal law to improve educational opportunities for all students, particularly students from low-income families, students with disabilities, English learners, students experiencing homelessness and other historically underserved students our federal laws specifically require states to support.

    Congress passed the Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025, which President Trump signed on March 15, 2025.   This law includes appropriations to the Department under the terms and conditions of the Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024.  Under those terms, the Department must allocate formula-grant funding for multiple programs authorized by the Elementary and Secondary Education Act and Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.  The largest of these, the Title I-A grant program, will provide $18.4 billion by formula to more than 80 percent of the nation’s school districts, and is already factored into budgets for the coming school year that is only a few months away.  Public school budgets also already factor in billions in funding for longstanding federal formula grants, including English Language Acquisition Grants, Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grants, and more. Yet, it took until May 13, 2025–more than 50 days after enactment of the 2025 appropriations law–for the Department to provide preliminary allocations of the amounts states and their school districts should expect to receive under the Title I-A formula grant programs for the 2025-2026 school year. 

    This inexcusable delay is in sharp contrast with actions by the Biden administration.  After President Biden signed the 2024 appropriations law on March 23, 2024, the Department provided preliminary allocations under the Title I-A program on April 8, 2024, just over two weeks after the appropriations law was signed.  The Trump-McMahon Department took more than three times as much time to accomplish this basic task..  We were told your Department’s work would be efficient, particularly after the reduction in force in which you reduced half of the Department’s workforce,[1] but that does not appear to be the case here.

    As you know, Title I-A is the largest federal program that provides supplemental funds to more than 80 percent of the nation’s school districts for more than half of all public schools. It also contains critical funding to identify and support the lowest performing public schools in each state and consistently underperforming subgroups of students in public schools in each state, and support students experiencing homelessness. States are required to set-aside a portion of a state’s allocation of Title I-A funds for its school support and improvement work without reducing any school district’s allocation.  The delayed allocation gives states less time to identify these amounts and make decisions about how best to allocate funds as allowed by federal law, which are required to be used for evidence-based interventions designed to help improve student outcomes in the lowest performing public schools in the state and lowest performing subgroups in public schools in the state. In addition, school districts are required to reserve sufficient funds to provide services to students experiencing homelessness in Title I and non-Title I schools.  The Department’s delayed notification could also make it more difficult for school districts to best serve students experiencing homelessness as required by law.

    Unfortunately, the Department’s delays also extend to the Rural Education Achievement Program (REAP) and other programs. REAP supports more than 6,000 rural school districts and was created to address the unique challenges faced by rural schools, including a lower tax base and capacity challenges in seeking competitive funding.  Unfortunately, the Department  made the application for the Small, Rural Schools Assistance (SRSA) program—one of two REAP grant programs—available on May 14th, with applications due 30 days later on June 13, 2025.  By contrast, last year under the Biden administration, the Department released the FY 2024 application for SRSA on March 19, 2024 and provided a 60-day application window.  The delayed application and shortened application window under your leadership demonstrate a lack of concern for the challenges rural schools face; or perhaps the Department’s workforce reductions have limited its ability to fulfill its statutory obligations in a timely way.  

    Unfortunately, we must also note the Department has been busy discontinuing funds for hundreds of grantees of school-based mental health programs we have supported through appropriations directives to the Department and the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act.[2]  The Department abruptly decided to discontinue expected federal support for more than 200 grants for mental health services in schools after what it claimed, without evidence, was an individualized review of the grants.[3] This alleged review led the Department to the conclusion that continuing the grants was not in the “best interest of the Federal Government” and that some of the grants “undermine the well-being of the students these programs are intended to help”.[4]  There’s bitter irony in the Department’s decision only days later to issue updated guidance encouraging states to undertake more work under the unsafe school option provision of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act [5] after discontinuing funds supported on a bipartisan basis for the important federal support it provides for mental health services that can help students feel safe in school and protect them from acts of school violence.[6]

    We implore the Department to reverse course, stop creating chaos, provide states and school districts with information about the resources Congress provided in the 2025 appropriations law and begin to support states and their school districts in the effective implementation of federal law.  The Department’s actions to date have only imposed legally dubious policy reversals,[7][8][9] funding cancellations, terminations and reductions,[10][11][12]  and funding directives[13][14] that do nothing to support students and educators in improving student learning and outcomes.

    In addition, Congress and American taxpayers continue to see an utter lack of transparency from you and this administration.  We’ve written numerous letters[15][16][17][18] that have yet to receive adequate or any response. You also failed to meet legal requirements to provide an operating plan at the level of detail required by section 1113 and in adherence to section 1101 of the Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025, despite having more than 45 days to do so. This must change immediately. 

    Thank you for your attention to this critical matter. We look forward to seeing actions from the Department that align to the timely and effective implementation of the requirements of federal law. We also look forward to responses to our letters and your testimony before committees later this year.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Derby City awarded Purple Flag Award for twelfth year in a row

    Source: City of Derby

    Derby is once again celebrating its success on the international stage as it proudly retains its Purple Flag accreditation, a prestigious award that recognises excellence in managing the evening and night-time economy. This will be the twelfth year in a row that Derby has held the Purple Flag accreditation.

    Awarded by an independent panel from the Association of Town and City Management (ATCM), the Purple Flag status acknowledges cities and towns that meet or surpass standards of excellence in providing a vibrant, diverse, and enjoyable experience between 5pm and 5am.

    A range of local organisations have come together through Derby’s Purple Flag working group to improve the city’s evening and night-time economy. This group includes representatives from Derby City Council, Derbyshire Constabulary, Marketing Derby, Pubwatch, St Peters Quarter and Cathedral Quarter BIDs, Derby Homes, the University of Derby, and Visit Derby alongside many more. Their collaborative efforts have been key to helping Derby retain its Purple Flag status.

    ATCM noted that recent additions such as Vaillant Live, which has significantly boosted the city’s cultural and event offerings, and the Condor residential development, showcasing urban regeneration at its best, heavily contributed to Derby being awarded the Purple Flag. They also commended the achievements and active participation of the working group in improving Derby’s night life.

    Councillor Sarah Chambers, Cabinet Member for Cost of Living, Equalities and Communities, said:

    This latest Purple Flag award is fantastic recognition of the continuous hard work across Derby to create a welcoming, inclusive, and positive experience in the city centre. We know perception matters and this award helps reinforce Derby as a place where people feel excited to spend their evenings. We’re proud of what we’ve achieved and even more excited for what’s to come.”

    Brad Worley, BID Manager for both Cathedral Quarter and St Peters Quarter, said:

    The Purple Flag award represents a celebration of the safety, liveliness, and variety found within the evening and night-time attractions of our city. It’s a proud achievement for Derby and a reflection of the dedication and cooperation shown by so many groups working together to make our city centre thrive after dark.”

    There are 90 Purple Flag destinations around the globe across the UK, Ireland, Sweden, Malta, New Zealand and Australia. Derby is proud to be amongst them. You can learn more about the Purple Flag award on the ATCM website.

    There is plenty going on in Derby, learn more about what’s on by visiting the Derby LIVE webpage. You can learn more about Derby Nightlife on the Visit Derby webpage.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch, Moody, Baldwin Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Give Tax Relief to Victims of Fraud, Scams, Theft, and Disasters

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Ashley Moody (R-Fla.), and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) this week introduced the Tax Relief for Victims of Crimes, Scams, and Disasters Act, bipartisan legislation to give relief to those who have been victims of fraud, scams, thefts, accidents, and other personal casualty losses. The Senators’ bill would reinstate the tax deduction for personal casualty and theft losses and ensure victims of scams, robberies, storms, and fires do not have to pay taxes on stolen assets and further wipe out their hard-earned savings and financial security.  
    “It’s outrageous that folks scammed out of their life’s savings are hit with large tax bills.  I’m proud to introduce this bill to reinstate this important tax deduction to provide crucial financial relief to those victimized by scams and theft,” said Senator Welch. “Vermont experienced catastrophic floods in July of 2023 and 2024. We know firsthand that victims of floods, storms, and fires go through so much—the last thing they should worry about is being penalized for a natural disaster.”  
    “As hurricane season is around the corner, I will continue supporting policies that protect Floridians from scammers and fraudsters,” said Senator Moody. “My Tax Relief for Victims of Crimes, Scams and Disasters Act will provide commonsense tax relief for victims, often seniors, who have been financially devastated by scams, crimes or destruction from disasters. This legislation will help folks get back on their feet when they experience hardship. When I was Attorney General of Florida, I made sure to fight for Floridians who fell victim to scams, and I will continue bringing this fight to D.C. so that folks have the protections they need.” 
    “When Wisconsinites fall victim to a fraud or scam, the last thing they should have to worry about is being slapped with an unexpected tax bill once tax season rolls around,” said Senator Baldwin. “I am proud to work with my Republican and Democratic colleagues to introduce this commonsense bill to help make sure if someone is down and out, they have one less thing to worry about than being hit with a tax bill.” 
    “The Elder Justice Coalition commends Senators Baldwin, Moody and Welch for introducing the Tax Relief for Victims of Crimes, Scams, and Disasters Act,” said Bob Blancato, National Coordinator of the Elder Justice Coalition. “It is unconscionable that older scam victims who lose hundreds of thousands of dollars face the compounded misery of having to pay taxes on the money lost.  Scams are rampant in this nation and serve to exploit the most vulnerable older adults. We hope Senator Baldwin’s bill can be made part of a future tax package. Tax relief for scam victims is tax fairness.”  
    “The Financial Services Institute (FSI) is proud to support the Tax Relief for Victims of Crimes, Scams and Disasters Act,” said Dale Brown, President & CEO of Financial Services Institute. “Owing taxes on stolen retirement funds makes an already painful situation worse. Main Street Americans cannot afford to lose their life savings, which they rely upon for a financially secure retirement. This bill will provide some relief to victims and mitigate damages as they work with their trusted financial advisor to recover losses and regain their financial footing.” 
    “With widespread financial fraud and scams impacting many Americans’ retirement security and financial livelihoods, CFP Board enthusiastically supports this critical piece of legislation that would lessen the impact of financial loss. We look forward to seeing this bill get to the finish line,” said Erin Koeppel, Managing Director of Government Relations and Public Policy Counsel at CFP Board.  
    Until 2018, the federal government allowed victims of crimes and unexpected, uninsurable disasters to deduct these losses from their taxes with a provision called the Casualty and Theft Loss Deduction. Today, scam victims and homeowners are on the hook for tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars in federal taxes unless their misfortunes meet a narrow set of criteria.  
    The growing sophistication of cybercriminal networks has led to a rapid proliferation in fraud for the past five years. In 2024 alone, American taxpayers reported $16.6 billion in cyber fraud to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The average victim of elder fraud lost $83,000. Natural disasters are also on the rise during a period of increasing insurance premiums and unexpected claim denials.  
    Without a reinstatement of the casualty and theft loss deduction, Americans who are victims of theft and non-federally declared disasters will continue to face hefty federal tax bills that the IRS is obligated to enforce. 
    The Tax Relief for Victims of Crimes, Scams, and Disasters Act:  
    Reinstates the tax deduction for personal casualty loss and provides retroactive coverage to taxpayers who suffered losses in the years that followed.  
    Ensures that victims who suffered losses since 2017 are able to file an amended tax return accounting for their personal casualty loss.  
    Companion legislation will be introduced in the U.S. House by Representatives Jamie Raskin (D-MD-08) and Greg Steube (R-FL-17). 
    The legislation is endorsed by the AARP, The Elder Justice Coalition, the National Association of Consumer Advocates, AICPA-CIMA, National Association of Enrolled Agents, National Association of Realtors, American Land Title Association, CFP Board, Investment Advisers Association, Financial Services Institute, Aspen Institute Financial Security Program, Association of Mature American Citizens, National Association of Government Defined Contribution Administrators, Operation Shamrock, and SPARK Institute. 
    As a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, Senator Welch voted against the 2017Republican tax bill, which repealed a tax deduction previously available to victims of scams, thefts, accidents, and other property casualty losses. In turn, reporting has revealed a pattern of Americans ending up with a tax bill after losing money through scams, thefts, and other similar events.   
    Learn more about the Tax Relief for Victims of Crimes, Scams, and Disasters Act. 
    Read and download the full text of the bill.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • UIDAI achieves major milestone with Over 150 billion Aadhaar authentications

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In a significant milestone for India’s digital infrastructure, Aadhaar authentication transactions have crossed the 150 billion mark, according to the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). This cumulative figure of over 15,011 crore authentications, achieved by the end of April 2025, marks a new chapter in the country’s expanding digital ecosystem.
     
    The UIDAI said that Aadhaar-based authentication continues to play a crucial role in enabling the ease of living, strengthening welfare delivery mechanisms, and facilitating access to a wide range of voluntary services. In April 2025 alone, nearly 210 crore Aadhaar authentication transactions were recorded, marking an increase of approximately 8% compared to the same month last year.
     
    Alongside authentication, Aadhaar’s e-KYC (Electronic Know Your Customer) service has also shown remarkable growth, becoming an integral component in streamlining customer onboarding and improving the ease of doing business. In April 2025, the number of e-KYC transactions stood at 37.3 crore, reflecting a 39.7% surge from April 2024. As of April-end, the total number of e-KYC transactions has exceeded 2,393 crore.
     
    The growing adoption of UIDAI’s AI-driven face authentication solution is further enhancing service delivery. Developed in-house using artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies, this authentication method recorded approximately 14 crore transactions in April. Over 100 government and private sector entities are currently leveraging face authentication to ensure seamless and contactless service experiences for Aadhaar number holders.

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Students of SPbGASU responded to the challenges of the construction industry

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Marina Malyutina opens the “Challenge Fair”

    Students of SPbGASU responded to the challenges of the construction industry in an unusual event. On May 13, the Center for Student Entrepreneurship and Career held the “Challenge Fair” at our university for the first time.

    Experts from five partner companies set real-life tasks for the students. Over the course of an hour, five teams, under the guidance of their mentors, generated solutions and then presented them to the experts and spectators. In addition, the Challenge Fair featured a Contact Wall, where any student, teacher or company representative could leave information about themselves: contact details, description of an idea or project (if any), who or what they were looking for.

    SPbGASU – a growth point for technological entrepreneurship

    Vice-Rector for Youth Policy Marina Malyutina spoke about how SPbGASU students are taught innovative entrepreneurial thinking. According to Marina Viktorovna, technological entrepreneurship is a certain challenge for students who want more than just to master the curriculum, they want to develop in the professional sphere.

    Experience has shown that our students are capable of technological entrepreneurship: SPbGASU took third place in the TechnoPiter accelerator, and for the second year the university has been developing the Startup as a Diploma project, within the framework of which final qualification theses are defended.

    Marina Viktorovna emphasized: “The Challenge Fair” is a “bridge” to the fact that next year some of the participants want to defend their final qualification work in the startup format. This is necessary for the university, which is focused on practice, and this is necessary for the industry. Graduates who think boldly and innovatively are extremely in demand.

    Challenges from partner companies

    Chief designer of the company “Project Institute No. 2” Andrey Poklad suggested that students think about the idea of a foundation for heavy production on soft soil. The expert told about a real construction project – a one-story industrial building, which is being designed in the Krasnodar region, for which an alternative design solution for the foundation should be developed.

    How to create a roofing structure that will tell you when cracks, leaks or moisture appear in it? This question was asked by Rockwool employees: Flat Roofing Development Specialist Anna Lyubimtseva and Leading Design Engineer Andrey Petrov. The speakers proposed developing a concept of “smart” thermal insulation for roofs.

    General Director of the Gensey company Artur Roshchupkin invited students to develop a project for a multifunctional public transport stop for the historical center of St. Petersburg, which should be in harmony with the architecture of the city’s historical buildings. The speaker drew attention to the current problem of the lack of public toilets in the center, especially at night. Tourists are left without amenities. In addition, the existing glass stops do not fit well into the architecture.

    Ilya Voilokov, a specialist in technical support at INSOLAR and associate professor of the construction organization department, called for assessing the possibility of using heat pumps as the main or backup heating source in a residential complex. Although heat pumps are already used in private homes, they are rarely used in low-rise buildings, especially complex ones.

    Dmitry Gladkovsky, Director of the Project Management Unit at GloraX, set a challenge for students: to create an automated documentation verification system. Developers face the problem of checking large volumes of working documentation for compliance with design standards. Manual verification requires a staff of experts, time-consuming work, and is subject to the human factor, which leads to errors and losses. An automated verification system based on a neural network could solve this problem, but its creation is difficult due to the lack of a training documentation base. Existing projects are not yet effective enough for widespread use.

    Innovative solutions from students

    The Blue Team’s response to the challenge from Design Institute No. 2 was a dynamic borehole filled with crushed stone or concrete mixture.

    The Purple Team responded to Rockwool’s challenge by proposing to use sensors that consist of a capsule with a piston filled with a silica gel-type material that expands when in contact with water.

    The “red” team responded to the challenge of the “Gensei” company and presented the idea of a multifunctional public transport stop, which consists of a restroom and a waiting area. It includes a baby changing room, containers for separate waste collection, vending machines, an SOS panic button and much more.

    The Green Team responded to the challenge from INSOLAR and presented a plan for a residential complex of twenty houses, each with a thermal circuit for the recovery of human heat.

    The “orange” team responded to the task from the GloraX company and offered to check the already created digital models of buildings that the developer has.

    New challenges lie ahead

    When asked if they liked this format of the event, the students answered with a unanimous “yes!” Many expressed a desire to participate again.

    Marina Malyutina summed up the results, expressing confidence that in collaboration with partners the university will develop a practice-oriented approach and move forward.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Broadcasting Notice of Consultation – CRTC 2024-288. THE NFB DEFENDS DOCUMENTARY AND CANADIAN CONTENT BEFORE THE CRTC.

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Montreal, May 16, 2025 – This morning, on behalf of the National Film Board of Canada (NFB), Government Film Commissioner and NFB Chairperson Suzanne Guèvremont argued for the need to include cultural elements in the definition of Canadian programming. She also spoke to the vital role that documentary film plays in Canada.

    These remarks were made to the Canadian Radio-Television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) as part of its hearings on the definition of Canadian programming. The hearings are taking place in Ottawa and run until May 27, 2025.

    According to Ms. Guèvremont, “A modern Canadian content policy must not abandon the very thing that gives our stories meaning: cultural elements. They reflect our creativity, diversity and uniqueness. Removing cultural elements creates invisibility.”

    Here is a summary of her presentation:

    In favour of clear and unambiguous cultural criteria for works that receive public funding

    • The perspective, language, values and people that make up the country give meaning to its stories. Omitting these elements, under the pretext of openness or neutrality, would erase what makes Canada unique;
    • Canada should draw inspiration from other countries where public funding is conditional on cultural criteria. These structured approaches foster creativity while ensuring an authentic and cohesive representation of the country and its population;
    • In the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Italy, New Zealand, France, Spain, Germany and Australia, among others, the granting of public money for audiovisual productions is conditional on some form of cultural test.

    Longform documentary must be considered nationally significant programming

    • Documentary is a vehicle for national identity, civic participation and collective understanding, comparable to news;
    • Removing it from nationally significant programming would not only jeopardize its funding and distribution but also deprive the public of an essential mirror to understand the country;
    • Protecting documentary means protecting the space where Canada sees itself most clearly. 

    In conclusion, Ms. Guèvremont said, “We cannot wait to redefine Canadian content. Let us move forward. Not with caution, but with conviction!”

    Agendas for the public hearings, taking place May 14 to May 27, 2025, are available here:
    https://crtc.gc.ca/broadcast/eng/hearings/2025/ag14_05.htm

    Hearings are broadcast live and recordings are available:
    Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission | CRTC or CRTC Hearings | CPAC.ca

    – 30 –

    Stay Connected

    Online Screening Room: nfb.ca
    NFB Facebook | NFB X | NFB Instagram | NFB Blog | NFB YouTube | NFB Vimeo
    Curator’s perspective | Director’s notes

    About the NFB

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: More than 100 garages now available to rent for storage or parking

    Source: City of Norwich

    City Council garage

    Published on Friday, 16th May 2025

    For the first time, our garages can now officially be used for general storage as well as for parking vehicles, and there are currently 169 available.

    If you are looking for a garage to rent in a convenient part of the city, we can offer lots of choice. Perhaps you need to free up some space or declutter your house? If so, you can now store items such as furniture, carpets, toys and tools in our garages.

    Anyone can rent one of our garages at a competitive rate of £31.78 per week and there are discounts available so please see our website for details.

    Important restrictions remain to keep garage sites safe for everyone. Items that must not be stored include:

    • Flammable materials (such as petrol, diesel or gas canisters),
    • Electric scooters or e-bikes,
    • Refrigerators, freezers or perishable goods,
    • Fireworks or other explosive materials,
    • Any goods or activities that are illegal or likely to cause a nuisance to others.

    Garages also cannot be used as workshops, charging stations or living spaces.

    Councillor Beth Jones, cabinet member for housing, said:
    ” We know that many people are looking for extra storage space, whether that’s to free up a spare room, keep tools secure, or simply declutter. By allowing garages to be used for storage, we hope to offer a practical and affordable solution that suits a range of needs across the city.”

    For more information or to apply for a garage, visit: www.norwich.gov.uk/garagepolicy.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Laredo, federal partners arrest 31 illegal aliens during a 1-day targeted worksite enforcement operation

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    LAREDO, Texas — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, in coordination with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, conducted a targeted worksite enforcement operation at a business and two construction sites in South Texas. The one-day operation, aimed at bolstering public safety, resulted in the arrest of 31 individuals for immigration-related violations.

    During the operation, ICE Homeland Security Investigations conducted records checks and found that several of those arrested had prior criminal convictions. Offenses included aggravated criminal sexual assault, bodily harm, possession of a controlled substance, probation violations, evading arrest, transporting noncitizens, domestic violence/strangulation, terroristic threats against family or household members, possession of prohibited weapons in a weapons-free zone, unauthorized use of a vehicle, and evading arrest or detention in the United States.

    The individuals arrested were citizens of Mexico, Honduras and El Salvador, and illegally present in the United States. All have been transferred to ICE custody and are pending removal proceedings.

    Federal law requires employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all individuals they hire, using the Employment Eligibility Verification Form I-9. ICE uses the I-9 inspection program to promote compliance with these requirements, as part of a broader strategy to address and deter the employment of unauthorized workers. These inspections are among the federal government’s most effective tools to enforce U.S. employment laws.

    HSI’s worksite enforcement strategy includes leveraging the agency’s full range of investigative capabilities. Worksite investigations often uncover additional criminal activity such as alien smuggling, human trafficking, money laundering, document fraud, worker exploitation, and substandard wages or working conditions.

    This investigation was conducted by HSI with support from ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; U.S. Border Patrol; U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Office of Field Operations; CBP Air and Marine Operations; the Webb County Sheriff’s Office; the Zapata County Sheriff’s Office; and the Laredo Police Department.

    Members of the public can report crimes or suspicious activity by calling the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or by completing the online tip form.

    For more information about HSI San Antonio and its public safety efforts in Central and South Texas, follow HSI San Antonio on X at @HSI_SanAntonio.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Governor Stein Announces More Than 700 New Jobs Coming to North Carolina

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: ICYMI: Governor Stein Announces More Than 700 New Jobs Coming to North Carolina

    ICYMI: Governor Stein Announces More Than 700 New Jobs Coming to North Carolina
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    This week Governor Josh Stein and the North Carolina Department of Commerce announced two new economic development projects, bringing more than 700 jobs to North Carolina. Genentech and Prolec GE build on North Carolina’s strong reputation in the life sciences and advanced manufacturing industries. Governor Stein and Secretary Lee Lilley also attended the Select USA Investment Summit in Maryland to highlight North Carolina’s attractive business environment and encourage companies to expand their operations in the state.

    “I am excited to see that more than 700 new jobs are coming to North Carolina,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Companies recognize that our strong economy and talented workforce are an asset to their operations, and that is why they are eager to invest here.”

    “Genentech and Prolec GE’s investments in North Carolina demonstrate our state’s high-powered business climate,” said Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “Our state’s investments in our workforce and infrastructure are paying off, and companies see the value in calling North Carolina home.” 

    Governor Stein announced this week that Genentech, one of the world’s premier biotechnology companies, will invest $700 million to build a new manufacturing plant in Holly Springs, creating 420 jobs. The average salary for new positions will be $119,833 as compared to the average wage in Wake County of $76,643, although wages vary depending on the position. This project is expected to grow North Carolina’s economy by more than $3 billion. For every dollar the state invests it is projected to receive $3.30 in state revenue. 

    The Governor also announced that Prolec-GE Waukesha, Inc., one of the nation’s largest manufacturers of power transformers, will add 330 new jobs as it invests $140 million to build a second manufacturing facility in Goldsboro. This project will build a new state-of-the-art manufacturing plant at the company’s existing site to support a growing demand for power grid capacity across the country. Although wages vary by position, the average salary for new positions will be $71,912. This project is expected to grow North Carolina’s economy by more than $1.05 billion. For every dollar the state invests it is projected to receive $2.06 in state revenue.

    Governor Stein is committed to creating a North Carolina that is safer and stronger with opportunity for everyone. North Carolina was recently ranked in the top 10 states for economy and growth by U.S. News and World Report, with the 7th best economy and the 5th best growth in the nation. The Governor’s budget proposal seeks to continue that progress by investing $256 million in workforce development and including free community college for students pursuing credentials in high-demand fields. In 2025, the State of North Carolina has announced more than 2,600 new jobs facilitated by grants and incentives. 

    May 16, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: International observers to Romania’s repeat presidential election second round to hold press conference on Monday

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

    Headline: International observers to Romania’s repeat presidential election second round to hold press conference on Monday

    International observers to Romania’s repeat presidential election second round to hold press conference on Monday | OSCE
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: SPbGASU became a venue for a meeting of participants of the international patriotic expedition “Unconquered”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Pavel Doroshenko, Marina Malyutina, Victoria Motorenko, Victoria Boginskaya and Marina Grigorenko

    SPbGASU became a stop on the route of the international patriotic expedition “Unconquered”. The expedition’s partner is the All-Russian student project “Your Move”, which is part of the presidential platform “Russia – the Land of Opportunities” and is implemented by the Federal Agency for Youth Affairs (Rosmolodezh) with the support of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation.

    Expedition of friendship and creation

    As explained by Pavel Doroshenko, a representative of the directorate of the all-Russian student project “Your Move”, the patriotic expedition “Unconquered” was launched in Russia as part of the Year of the Defender of the Fatherland in honor of the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War. The selection of participants took place through the platform of the project “Your Move”. More than 2.5 thousand applications were received, each was studied in detail, after which 60 participants were admitted to the expedition during a personal interview.

    “During the two-week expedition, students will travel more than five thousand kilometers, visit 14 cities in Russia and Belarus. Travel, communication, and the educational program are filled with meetings with interesting speakers and various events. The time spent together will allow students to become friends, learn about opportunities for self-development, outline plans for joint work and the creation of public projects,” Pavel Doroshenko specified.

    Vice-Rector for Youth Policy at SPbGASU Marina Malyutina reported that our university is pleased to join the project “Your Move” and the patriotic expedition “Unconquered”, as it considers them important in the comprehensive education of young people, their advancement in professional and social activities, and the formation of a civic position.

    “It is significant that the program began at our university, and this is not surprising, because the results of our graduates’ work are visible throughout Russia: starting from the 19th century, our engineers, architects, and builders created the cities where we live, which educate us, which we preserve and protect, and which we are proud of. It is important to emphasize that our university combines academic tradition with modern trends in Russian science, so it can be said about us that we preserve our traditions, our history, and create the future,” Marina Malyutina noted.

    Irina Peretokin, a second-year student at the construction faculty and a representative of the SPbGASU volunteer club, said that volunteers participate in various events at both the university and federal levels and not only complete assigned tasks, but also help organize events.

    “The Unconquered Project is a socially significant project aimed at developing patriotism. We consider it our duty to promote such events and participate in them, because they are necessary to strengthen the correct civic position and realize the potential of modern youth,” Irina explained.

    Great opportunities for young people

    Opening the plenary session, Marina Malyutina emphasized that the activities of our university are aimed at forming a full-fledged student personality, which has both professional and project competencies, as well as soft skills.

    “The ecosystem of youth policy of SPbGASU includes various initiatives at all levels: the world, the country, the university, the faculty, the student environment. The Center for Student Entrepreneurship and Career of our university closely cooperates with the industry, organizes joint events and competitions, develops entrepreneurial competencies and creates conditions for further employment of students and graduates. Through the platform “Russia – the Country of Opportunities”, students successfully participate in the international engineering championship CASE-IN. We support the project “Startup as a Diploma” and the TIM movement. The youth policy of SPbGASU takes into account the needs of the region: students participate in the improvement of small towns, designing spaces and objects for them. Thus, we create conditions in which students can try themselves in various directions and choose their own,” the vice-rector noted.

    At the plenary session

    Director of the St. Petersburg State Budgetary Institution “Youth Spaces “PROSTO”” Victoria Motorenko agreed that today students have huge opportunities, and now is the best time to try to find the right direction for themselves.

    “All industries offer enormous opportunities for self-realization of a specialist. There are many options for development in public life. “PROSTO” is the flagship project in the field of work with youth of the Government of St. Petersburg. We work in two directions. The infrastructure one involves a network of free modern and fully equipped youth spaces. Now there are seven of them, this year we plan to open 15 more and cover all districts of St. Petersburg. The spaces have areas from one hundred to one thousand square meters. Each has comfortable workplaces, high-speed Internet, all the necessary office equipment, so, for example, you can print, laminate, order a meeting room for free. In the intellectual direction, we focus on the development of youth entrepreneurship, competencies in the field of information technology, creative industries, fine arts, design. We are constantly expanding cooperation. Today we have already discussed common ground with SPbGASU,” said Victoria Motorenko.

    Find something you enjoy doing

    The founder of the YARUS design center, member of the Union of Architects of Russia Victoria Boginskaya called student time ideal for finding an occupation to your liking and, using her own example, told how, having professional competencies and a desire to develop, you can turn an idea into your own company.

    “Today, the state provides great opportunities not only for students, but also for young people. In 2018, I completed my Master’s degree at the University of Yaroslavl and realized that I didn’t want to just draw projects, but also build, including something useful for the city. I asked myself: what do I need to do for this? While searching for an answer, I saw grant competitions. I applied and won 100 thousand rubles to implement my idea. Cool! Thanks to the grants, I got the opportunity to implement my idea and subsequently expand the level and geography of implementation. With the grant, I also published a book on the methodology for designing improvements in the Arctic zone and, as I found out today, I consulted students of St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering on this topic. This is how grants can introduce you to successful professional activity,” noted Victoria Boginskaya.

    Deputy Director of the Competence Center for Urban Environment Development and Smart City, graduate of SPbGASU Marina Grigorenko reminded that many students are worried about their professional future, their income, and industrial practices and internships help them avoid uncertainty, after which employment is possible. The organization builds such cooperation with students and graduates.

    “Our team is young, the architects are young professionals. We are engaged in a variety of activities, one of the important aspects of which is working with young people. There are 36 small towns in the Leningrad Region; unfortunately, there is a large outflow of young people to St. Petersburg. Among the reasons for this is the lack of leisure and places for recreation. Taking into account the comments, we not only improve parks, embankments, public spaces, but also support educational activities, within the framework of which we organize competitions and implement the best submitted projects. We have already held three architectural competitions, 350 people took part in them, seven were invited to the bureau as part of the expert council, 18 projects have been implemented. There are also competitions, the winners of which receive grants,” said Marina Grigorenko.

    Master classes from a teacher, architect and welding queen

    Lecture by Marina Khramova

    The expedition participants’ further stay at SPbGASU was equally interesting. Senior lecturer of the Department of Architectural Environment Design Marina Khramova gave a lecture on the architecture of St. Petersburg.

    The master classes were conducted by Victoria Boginskaya and the artist, sculptor, and curator of the creation of art objects for public spaces, Alexandra Weld Queen.

    Alexandra Weld Queen has gained recognition as a professional, highly skilled welder and has elevated her work to the level of art. Her objects are unique: even a park bench turns into an amazing, but functional creation. “Working with metal, I convey to people certain meanings that help them live, develop, and feel stronger. A durable material, steel allows me to create works for urban spaces that serve people for many years,” she said.

    Master class by Alexandra Weld Queen (center) and Victoria Boginskaya

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Current events: New river feature at the legislature

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth Leads Democratic Colleagues in Demanding Answers about the National Security Risks Posed by Trump’s Acceptance of $400 Million Plane-Shaped Qatari Bribe

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth

    May 15, 2025

    [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) led Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Assistant Minority Leader Dick Durbin (D-IL) and nine other Democratic colleagues across U.S. Senate Armed Services, Appropriations and Intelligence Committees in demanding that the Department of Defense be transparent with them about the substantial national security and operational risks posed by President Trump’s plan to accept a $400 million aircraft “gift” from the Qatari royal family. In a letter sent to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Secretary of the Air Force Troy Meink last night, the Senators called for answers from the Department of Defense about how it would prevent these national security risks if Donald Trump accepts this gift, and how much taxpayers will have to pay for the extensive upgrades that would need to be made on this unvetted aircraft in order to protect the President, servicemembers and sensitive information from nefarious espionage, attack or disruption.

    “[We] write today with alarm over the dangers to operational and national security presented by President Trump’s desire to execute an unconstitutional and unseemly acceptance of a $400 million gift from the Qatari royal family in the form of a luxury Boeing 747-8 aircraft. To serve as Air Force One during his administration, the U.S. Department of Defense would be required to accelerate a comprehensive upgrade to the aircraft, with the direct cost to the American taxpayer likely exceeding $1 billion. We are especially concerned about the operational security and counterintelligence risks of potentially using this aircraft for sensitive Presidential travel— and the massive cost to American taxpayers to identify and close critical vulnerabilities,” the lawmakers said.

    The Senators continued: “Having the President travel without the necessary security precautions or secure communications renders the aircraft an easy target for adversaries to gain access to sensitive Presidential-level discussions or classified information, impeding the success of ongoing military operations and endangering our servicemembers… President Trump is claiming that this ‘gift’ of an aircraft worth $400 million is saving taxpayers money, but in reality, his decision will force taxpayers to foot an unnecessary bill—potentially more than $1 billion—to convert a foreign-provided aircraft into the fortress necessary to protect him and his communications—all while taxpayers are already paying at least $3.9 billion for the contract for two aircraft currently being built by Boeing to add to the Air Force One fleet.” 

    In addition to Duckworth, Schumer and Durbin, the letter was co-signed by U.S. Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Angus King (I-ME), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA).

    The full text of the letter follows and is available on Senator Duckworth’s website.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: HashFly Empowers Space and Time (SXT) Crypto Holders with Profitable Cloud Mining

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York City, NY, May 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    As the digital asset ecosystem matures, Space and Time (SXT) token holders increasingly turn to innovative strategies to grow their portfolios, without liquidating their assets. In response to this evolving demand, HashFly, a global leader in secure and scalable cloud mining, is proud to introduce ded

    Let Your SXT Work Smarter — Not Harder

    SXT, the native utility token of Space and Time, a decentralised data warehouse enabling trustless data services for blockchain and AI-powered applications, continues to gain momentum as a critical infrastructure asset in the Web3 economy.

    As interest grows in holding SXT for the long haul, more users are seeking non-custodial, capital-efficient ways to generate passive income. Hicated mining opportunities for SXT holders.

    With passive income’s growing importance in the blockchain landscape, HashFly is positioning itself as the most trusted mining partner for long-term SXT investors seeking returns without trading exposure.ashFly’s cloud mining platform offers a seamless solution, enabling token holders to earn daily rewards without the complexity or risks of traditional mining.

    Maximize Passive Income Through Secure Cloud Mining

    HashFly offers an all-in-one platform for profitable and secure cloud mining, enabling users to earn daily rewards without the need for hardware, technical skills, or electricity costs. Whether you’re holding SXT or other cryptocurrencies, HashFly empowers you to:

    • Earn while you hold: Don’t let your crypto sit idle — turn it into a revenue-generating asset.
    • Mine top assets: Including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and fast-rising tokens like SXT.
    • Enjoy daily payouts: Withdraw earnings at your convenience, with full transparency.
    • Choose your plan: Flexible contracts designed for short-term gains or long-term growth.
    • Zero hassle: No hardware, no noise, no maintenance — just consistent returns.

    How to Earn Daily Passive Income with HashFly

    You can easily accumulate Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies by following these simple steps:

    1. Sign Up: Register on the official HashFly website and receive a $10 bonus instantly.
    2. Choose a Contract: Select a mining contract that aligns with your investment goals.
    3. Start Earning: Begin receiving daily passive income with minimal effort.
    4. Flexible Withdrawal Options: Withdraw your earnings once you reach $200, or choose to reinvest and upgrade your contract for higher returns.
    5. Diverse Cryptocurrency Support: Mine and receive payouts in various cryptocurrencies, including BTC, ETH, DOGE, USDT, and more.

    HashFly Mining Plans: Maximize Your Earnings

    HashFly offers flexible mining plans tailored to different investment levels. Each plan provides daily returns and a guaranteed return on investment.

    Contract Price Duration Daily Interest Rate Daily Income Total Payout (Principal + Profit)
    $200 1 Day 4% $8 $200 + $8
    $600 2 Days 3% $18 $600 + $36
    $1,600 3 Days 3.1% $49.60 $1,600 + $148.80
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    $16,000 3 Days 5% $800 $16,000 + $2,400
    $32,000 3 Days 6.5% $2,080 $32,000 + $6,240
    $50,000 3 Days 7.2% $3,600 $50,000 + $10,800

    HashFly: The Most Trusted Cloud Mining Platform Since 2013

    With over 1 million users worldwide, HashFly has built a reputation for integrity, performance, and transparency. The company operates secure, high-performance mining facilities backed by real-time monitoring, 24/7 support, and guaranteed uptime.

    SXT holders — whether you’re a long-term investor or exploring ways to boost your crypto earnings — can trust HashFly to deliver a seamless and secure mining experience.

    Join HashFly today and let your SXT holdings open the door to real, passive income.
     Start now at www.hashfly.com

    MEDIA CONTACT
    Name: Scott Joseph
    Email: info@hashfly.com
    Job Title: Director
    City/Country: New York, USA

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –