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Category: housing

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Influencers see Alexa+ as game-changer in personalized AI experiences, reveals GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Influencers see Alexa+ as game-changer in personalized AI experiences, reveals GlobalData

    Posted in Business Fundamentals

    Amazon’s unveiling of Alexa+, a generative AI-powered upgrade to its Alexa voice assistant, has ignited significant discussion among social media influencers in the last week of February 2025. The rollout, promising enhanced personalization, context awareness, and agentic actions, has been met with both excitement and reservations. Influencers see that the enhanced Alexa+ has the potential to be a game-changer in providing  personalized AI experiences, reveals the Social Media Analytics Platform of GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    Shreyasee Majumder, Social Media Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Influencers’ discussions primarily focused on the potential of Alexa+ to enhance the user experience, emphasizing its capacity to manage complex requests, perform multiple tasks concurrently (such as booking reservations and ordering groceries), and integrate effortlessly with other Amazon services. Optimism is prevalent regarding the advanced natural language processing capabilities and the prospect of more personalized and engaging interactions. Several influencers point to use cases like assisting children with homework and resolving household disagreements as areas where Alexa+ could demonstrate significant value.

    “Alongside, the consensus also seems to be building around Apple that it needs to drastically improve its AI capabilities to remain competitive in the rapidly evolving landscape of voice assistants and AI-powered devices.”

    Below are a few popular influencer opinions captured by GlobalData’s Social Media Analytics Platform:

    1. Mark Gurman, Chief Correspondent on Apple and Tech News at Bloomberg LP:

    “The new Alexa+ is basically ChatGPT Voice Mode on steroids, with personality, context and memory of past conversations and people. It’s extremely impressive. It is frightening how far behind Apple is in this space.”

    1. Rowan Cheung, Founder & CEO at The Rundown:

    “Amazon just unveiled the all-new Alexa+ powered by Amazon’s AI models and Claude. It’s like ChatGPT Voice taken to the next level with personalization, memory of past conversations, and of course, agentic action features. Pricing starts at $19.99/month but is free for all Amazon Prime members. Most importantly, this means ~100M+ people are about to have their first experience with real AI-powered voice agents soon. Could be another ‘ChatGPT moment’ for consumers outside of the tech community. (Let’s hope it runs more smoothly than the launch of Apple Intelligence)”

    1. Brian Roemmele, Engineer at PromptExpertise.com:

    “The new AlexaPlus is quite a game changer. Of course you can talk to Alexa but you can type to it also. The rate of acceleration is incredibly increasing. FREE in Amazon Prime…”

    1. Marsha Collier, President at The Collier Company Inc:

    “Amazon Unveils Alexa Powered by Generative AI. Amazon is aiming to catch up in generative artificial intelligence and to reboot its virtual assistant, which has been leapfrogged by powerful chatbots. “Until right this moment, right this moment, we have been limited by the technology,” Panos Panay, the head of Amazon’s devices, said at a media event. “Alexa+ is that trusted assistant that can help you conduct your life and your home”.”

    1. Shelly Palmer, CEO at The Palmer Group:

    “In a “better late than never” moment, Amazon has unveiled Alexa+: an advanced version of its voice assistant that integrates generative AI to enhance user interactions. Priced at $19.99 per month (but free for Amazon Prime members), the service is set to launch with early access in the U.S. next month, initially available on Echo Show devices, with plans for broader international and device expansion…”

    1. Kim, Technology Expert:

    “Amazon has unveiled Alexa+, an enhanced version of its voice assistant powered by generative AI technologies. This upgrade enables Alexa+ to handle multiple requests in a single command and perform tasks autonomously on behalf of users. For instance, it can book restaurants, create recipes, set timers automatically, and control various smart home devices based on your preferences and mood…”

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xizang schools start new semester two months after earthquake

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Two months after a 6.8-magnitude earthquake hit Dingri County, home to the northern base camp of the world’s highest peak, Mount Qomolangma, thousands of children were able to return to class to start the new semester, as builders raced against time in conducting reconstruction work.
    Students from the 79 schools affected by the earthquake resumed classes as scheduled on Wednesday, together with all other students in the city of Xigaze, southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region.
    These 79 schools in the county suffered various degrees of damage during the quake, which claimed 126 lives back in January. Among these, 76 schools have met safety standards after being repaired and reinforced.
    Meanwhile, a trio of primary schools in three severely-shattered townships in Dingri require complete reconstruction. These schools transferred 1,479 students to four other sites for the start of the new semester this week.
    Li Benfeng, deputy director of the education bureau in Dingri, said the county’s Party school, serving as one of the temporary sites, is providing six classrooms — thereby accommodating over 220 primary school students and enabling them to start the semester on time.
    “Each of us was given not only new textbooks but also backpacks, bedding and stationery,” said Pasang Tsering, a grade-six student attending classes at the Party school venue.
    Chimed, deputy director of the municipal education bureau of Xigaze, said school teachers were mobilized to return to school in advance to assist in cleaning and school-opening preparations.
    “During the new semester, teachers will provide psychological support for students — aiming to alleviate fear and anxiety caused by the earthquake,” she said.
    On Monday, the reconstruction of eight villages severely affected by the earthquake was launched, marking the start of a recovery effort aimed at relocating over 120,000 residents to new homes by the end of this year.
    The launch ceremony was held in Gurum Village of Dingri following over a month of preparations, with initiatives including debris clearance, risk assessment and housing design.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Last chance to get free flu vaccinations

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    They can get it without an appointment at one of a number of pop-up clinics being held in Wolverhampton until the end of the month including Sainsburys, Bentley Bridge, from 11am to 6pm on Thursdays 6 March and 20 March; Queen Square, Wolverhampton, from 9am to 3pm on Fridays 7 March and 21 March; and Sainsburys, Raglan Street, Wolverhampton, from 9am to 3pm on Thursdays 13 March and 27 March.

    Among those eligible are adults aged 65 years and over, people who live in a care home for older adults, people aged 6 months to 64 years with health conditions that make them more vulnerable, frontline health and social care staff including those working in care homes for older adults, and pregnant women.

    Councillor Jasbir Jaspal, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Adults and Wellbeing, said: “It’s vital that we all do everything we can to protect ourselves from illnesses such as flu, especially those of us who may be at higher risk.

    “I would therefore encourage anyone who is yet to have their flu vaccination to get it at one of the pop-up clinics taking place over the next few weeks.”

    Anyone not eligible for a free flu vaccination is reminded that they can still get it for a small charge at participating pharmacists.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Tribute Portfolio Marks Its Debut in Tanzania’s Northern Safari Circuit with the Opening of Turaco Ngorongoro Valley, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

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

    KARATU, Tanzania, March 5, 2025/APO Group/ —

    Tribute Portfolio – part of Marriott Bonvoy’s (www.Marriott.com) growing collection of characterful, independent hotels – welcomes its first safari lodge with the launch of Turaco Ngorongoro Valley, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel in Karatu, Tanzania. Set against the awe-inspiring backdrop of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a protected territory in Tanzania’s Arusha region and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this property seamlessly combines modern comfort with an authentic connection to the land and the Maasai culture. 

    With easy access to some of Tanzania’s most iconic wildlife destinations, including the Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, Tarangire and Serengeti National Parks the property offers a sanctuary for travellers seeking an immersive and unforgettable safari experience.  

    “Turaco Ngorongoro Valley marks an exciting milestone as the first Tribute Portfolio property in Tanzania’s Northern Safari Circuit,” said Sandra Schulze-Potgieter, Vice President, Premium, Select & Midscale Brands, Europe, Middle East, and Africa, Marriott International. “This opening brings to life the brand’s passion for exceptional design and heartfelt service, offering a unique stay that reflects the untamed spirit of its destination. We’re thrilled to introduce this exceptional lodge to travellers seeking connection, culture, and adventure.”  

    Drawing inspiration from the traditional Maasai boma, the hotel’s architecture reflects the circular structures and pitched roofs that define the region’s heritage. The property features 37 suites, including 34 executive suites and three presidential suites, blending natural materials like wood and stone with vibrant Maasai-inspired accents. Elements such as wood-burning fireplaces and intricate detailing create a warm and inviting atmosphere, immersing guests in the local culture. The communal spirit of the Maasai is reflected in the hotel’s design, with shared spaces like outdoor dining areas and a central bonfire encouraging interaction and connection. 

    Guests can savour farm-to-table dining at Caldera Restaurant, which celebrates the region’s rich flavours with ingredients sourced from the on-site farm. N Bar offers craft cocktails, including the signature Tanzanian Dawa, in a stylish yet cosy setting with a piano and billiards table, while the poolside Maji Maji Bar provides light bites and refreshments among serene surroundings. 

    Guests can immerse themselves in Tanzania’s natural beauty and cultural heritage through a variety of unique experiences. The Ngorongoro Crater Safari offers guests the opportunity to see an abundance of wildlife including the Big Five – elephants, buffaloes, rhinos, lions, and leopards – amidst breathtaking scenery. Guests can reconnect with nature as they explore lush greenery and diverse ecosystems during expertly guided forest walks. Alternately, they can explore the Endoro Trail, which leads to the fascinating Elephant Caves, showcasing ancient rock formations shaped over millennia. Maasai cultural activities, such as storytelling sessions, traditional dances, and village visits, offer guests a window into ancient traditions and a deeper understanding of the local community’s way of life.  

    Wellness and leisure are integral to the experience, with amenities that include a pool that mimics the natural shape of a watering hole; a jacuzzi, fitness centre, and a spa, where locally inspired therapies help restore balance and rejuvenation. A recreation area with a classic snooker table offers moments of relaxed enjoyment, while The Point, the lodge’s panoramic viewing deck, allows guests to soak in the incredible landscapes. 

    Ali Jivraj, Co-Founder of Turaco Collection, says: “Our goal is to create a space where guests can truly unwind, reconnect with nature, and immerse themselves in the local culture. From the vibrant design inspired by Maasai traditions to the curated experiences that celebrate the beauty of Tanzania, every detail has been crafted to ensure a memorable and meaningful stay.” 

    Sustainability lies at the heart of Turaco Ngorongoro Valley, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel. Solar energy and efficient waste management reduce the environmental footprint, while farm-to-table dining highlights the freshness of locally grown produce. Guests can join the lodge’s “Make the Green Choice” initiative, conserving energy, and water by opting out of daily linen changes.  

    The property supports various community initiatives, including the Kilimani Pre and Primary School, where it funds new classrooms, a kitchen, and staff facilities, while offering guests the opportunity to donate books and supplies. Guests can also purchase an additional bag of firewood for $20, with all proceeds going to local women to support their livelihoods. 

    Turaco Ngorongoro Valley, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel offers airport shuttles to and from Arusha Airport (140km away), and Kilimanjaro International Airport (204km away).  

    For more information or to book your stay, visit www.Marriott.com. 

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wicker Responds To President Trump’s Address To A Joint Session Of Congress President Is Focused On Growth, Security, And International Leadership

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Mississippi Roger Wicker
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., today issued the following statement after President Donald J. Trump delivered the 2025 Presidential Address to a Joint Session of Congress:
    “Tonight, President Trump outlined his vision for the next four years. The president has already begun enforcing the law at the border and restoring our national defense. The American people voted for security and prosperity, and I look forward to achieving both over the course of President Trump’s administration.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Moscow Mayor Tells How Two More Sites Will Be Transformed as Part of KRT Projects

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Two non-residential development sites in the Aeroport and Cheryomushki districts are planned to be reorganized under the program of integrated development of territories. About this in his telegram channel Sergei Sobyanin reported. Their total area is 1.77 hectares.

    “On Stepana Suprun Street, Building 7, Building 1, Building 9 (Northern Administrative District) and Khersonskaya Street, Building 35 (South-West Administrative District), we will build housing for the purposes of the renovation program and more. The ground floors will be used for shops, services, and other businesses necessary for the comfort of residents. We will improve the courtyards, make children’s and sports grounds,” the Moscow Mayor wrote.

    Source: Sergei Sobyanin’s Telegram channel @Mos_Sobyanin

    Plot on Stepan Suprun Street

    The first plot for integrated development is located on Stepana Suprun Street (property 7, building 1 and property 9) near the intersection of Konstantin Simonov and Krasnoarmeyskaya Streets. Its area is 0.6 hectares.

    It is planned that 17.9 thousand square meters of housing will be built here for the purposes of the renovation program and other city needs. The first floor of the building will house shops, cafes, restaurants, and service workshops. In addition, the new building will have underground parking. Thanks to the reorganization of the territory, about 70 new jobs will appear.

    The courtyard and public spaces will be improved, including the installation of children’s and sports playgrounds.

    Territory on Kherson street

    Another plot of 1.17 hectares is located at the address: Khersonskaya Street, Building 35, near the intersection of Obruchev Street and Nauchny Proezd.

    On the reorganized territory, they plan to build 42 thousand square meters of residential and non-residential real estate, including houses for the purposes of the renovation program. Shops, restaurants, service departments and other infrastructure facilities will open on the ground floors of the buildings. In addition, an underground parking lot will be built. The implementation of the project will create over 40 new jobs.

    The improvement of the territory includes the creation of children’s and sports playgrounds.

    Operators have started implementing 36 KRT projects in 2024In 2025, the city plans to hold nine auctions for the right to comprehensive development of territories

    In Moscow, 112 projects for the integrated development of territories with a total area of about 1.4 thousand hectares have been approved and are in the implementation stage, within the framework of which it is planned to build almost 28.2 million square meters of real estate. As a result, 333.7 thousand jobs will be created.

    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.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/mayor/tkhemes/12447050/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Gift for March 8: the capital’s consumer portal will help you make the right choice

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    On International Women’s Day, many people try to please their loved ones and friends by giving them a memorable gift. This could be a bouquet of beautiful flowers with balloons and toys, perfume and jewelry, an invitation to a romantic dinner at a restaurant or a trip to the theater. Department of Information Technology of the City of Moscow They told us what materials the capital has consumer portal will help you navigate when buying goods in stores or marketplaces and order quality services. Finding the necessary material is easy: just use the search bar or select the appropriate thematic section on the main page of the portal.

    “The desire to make March 8 an unforgettable day requires not only creativity and material costs, but also maximum attention when assessing the quality of goods and services. To ensure that the delivery of flowers, cake or balloons does not turn into an unpleasant adventure, and a trip to a restaurant meets expectations, it is worth reading the recommendations of experts on the capital’s consumer portal. Useful materials will help you learn how to recognize scammers when making online purchases and return goods of inadequate quality. They will also tell you what to do if the price on the price tag does not match the price of the goods at the checkout,” the press service of the Moscow Department of Information Technology said.

    Book a table at a restaurant or order cleaning

    One way to make a pleasant surprise for March 8 is to order cleaning at home. In order for the services to be provided on time and with high quality, it is worth learning more about the rights and obligations of the customer and their contractor. This was discussed in the material “Cleaning services – what should a consumer be guided by?”.

    Another way to create a festive mood is to have a gala dinner. If you plan to have dinner at home, you need to make a menu in advance and buy products, including buying them on sale. To avoid shopping problems, it is useful to familiarize yourself with the portal section “Sale of food products”.

    Here you can find information on what to do if the price of a product on the price tag does not match the one announced at the checkout, and what to pay attention to when buying loose goods.

    Those planning to spend an evening in a cafe or restaurant should study the materials in this section. “Public catering services”.

    Expert advice will help you get the expected level of service. Thanks to them, you can find out what to pay attention to when visiting catering establishments, and what information about the establishment and its services a guest has the right to request. In addition, the section contains instructions on what to do if the dish seemed tasteless or of poor quality, and uncoordinated additional services unexpectedly appeared on the bill.

    Choose quality perfume, jewelry or purchase a certificate

    When buying perfume or cosmetics, first of all, you need to make sure of the quality and safety of the product. In order for the gift to become a pleasant surprise, and not the cause of allergic reactions, you need to study the composition and expiration date of the product, contraindications for use and information about the manufacturer. All the necessary information must be provided by the seller. You can learn more about consumer rights when buying perfumes and cosmetics from the thematic article “What to look for when choosing cosmetics?”.

    Another desired gift is jewelry. Recommendations on how to ensure the quality of jewelry and what to pay attention to in a jewelry store are collected inin this material. For example, when buying a product made of precious metals, experts recommend making sure that it has a sample and a stamp of the manufacturer (the manufacturer’s mark, which is placed on all jewelry made of precious metal). And if the product uses cut precious stones, there should be a separate certificate for each of them. In addition, the material can tell you in what cases you can return or exchange the purchased product.

    It may happen that the gift does not fit in shape, dimensions, size, color or configuration. Another publication on the consumer portal will tell you how to return or exchange items of proper quality and what conditions must be met.

    If it is difficult to decide on a gift, but you still want to please your loved ones and colleagues, certificates and gift cards can be an excellent option. What you should pay attention to when making them, will tell next materialHere you can also find information on how to return funds if for some reason you cannot use the certificate.

    Make profitable purchases in online stores

    Those who prefer to order gifts, products and flowers online should familiarize themselves with the information aboutFeatures of distance selling. And to understand what to do if the product purchased on the online platform turned out to be of inadequate quality, the material posted will help by link.

    If after paying for the goods there are controversial situations with the seller, which he refuses to resolve by oral appeal, the consumer has the right to make a written claim. The procedure is described in the article “Pre-trial procedure for resolving disputes on consumer rights protection issues”. You can file a claim using ready template on the portal.

    The consumer portal was created in 2022 by the Moscow Government and the Moscow Office of Rospotrebnadzor. The resource contains more than 230 materials: articles, instructions, memos, webinars, interviews. All materials were compiled by experts based on requests from Muscovites, including those received on the hotline of the Moscow Office of Rospotrebnadzor. The portal’s materials, written in simple and understandable language, help to sort out controversial situations between consumers and sellers of goods or service providers. In addition to practical recommendations, the publications also contain the names of the relevant regulations that can be relied on when communicating with legal entities or individual entrepreneurs if there is a need to protect consumer rights. You can also consult on consumer rights protection issues by calling the 24-hour hotline of the Moscow Office of Rospotrebnadzor: 7 495 539-36-96.

    The creation and support of information security tools, as well as counteracting cyber fraud, are in line with the objectives of the national project “Data Economy and Digital Transformation of the State”.

    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.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/150933073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “Such different girls, young women, women”: Glavarkhiv invites to an exhibition for March 8

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    An exhibition entitled “Such Different Girls, Young Women, Women” dedicated to International Women’s Day has opened on Chistoprudny Boulevard and in Yekaterininsky Park. The exhibition includes photographs from the Moscow Main Archives collection from the 1900s to the 1980s. The photographs depict girls of various professions. The exhibition can be viewed until April 4.

    “This coming weekend, all of Russia will be congratulating girls and women on March 8. For this day, we have prepared a photo exhibition on Chistoprudny Boulevard and in Yekaterininsky Park with shots from our collections. The most striking pictures from different decades of the last century have been selected for it. Through them, we have tried to convey the versatility of girls, young women, women who will always be an example of inner strength, kindness and determination for all generations. We congratulate you on the upcoming holiday and invite you to the exhibition, which will last until April 4,” said the head of the Main Archives of Moscow.

    Yaroslav Onopenko.

    The earliest photographs in the exhibition date back to the 1900s, and most of them feature the Gnessin family. For example, a 1900 shot shows artist Elena Kamenetseva, their closest friend. She was photographed at her dacha, working en plein air. A 1908 photo shows pianist and teacher Olga Gnessina at home.

    Photos from the Soviet period show girls with the most difficult and responsible professions. Thus, in one of the shots, a worker at Vnukovo airport measures the lower edge of clouds to ensure flight safety. In other pictures, women receive a call from the central city ambulance station dispatcher via radio, prepare signature dishes, accept congratulations on March 8 from their students, and rest during a break.

    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.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/150895073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The super service “Moving under the renovation program” is becoming increasingly popular among Muscovites

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The online booking service for viewing apartments offered by the city under the renovation program is gaining popularity among residents of the capital. In January 2025, the number of requests increased more than sixfold compared to the same period last year. This was reported by the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the capital’s Department of City Property Maxim Gaman.

    “In the first month of this year, 969 families chose a convenient date and time to view an apartment online using the super service

    “Moving under the renovation program” on the mos.ru portal. For comparison: in January 2024, the digital resource was used 153 times, and over four thousand times over the entire last year. Muscovites appreciated the remote format of interaction with the city, since the super service allows them to resolve many issues related to resettlement without visiting the information center and not depending on its working hours,” said Maxim Gaman.

    There is still an alternative way to register for viewing apartments offered by the city through employees of resettlement information centres.

    “For residents who value face-to-face communication, resettlement information centers operate on the ground floors of new buildings. There, administrators will consult participants in the renovation program on all issues related to moving, and will also help select the necessary service within the super service. Thanks to a single registration grid, overlapping in slots and long waits in line are eliminated,” noted the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the capital’s Department of Urban Development Policy

    Vladislav Ovchinsky.

    In addition, Muscovites who have full account on the mos.ru portal, they can register online to conclude an agreement, when it is ready. In addition, the super service allows you to download it yourself to the portal necessary copies of documents. These include scans of passports and birth certificates for minors, as well as title documents for housing. This could be, for example, a purchase and sale agreement, exchange, gift, shared participation or social tenancy agreement, as well as a certificate of inheritance – everything is individual here.

    As noted in the Department of Information Technology, in the super service “Moving under the renovation program” is also availablegeneral instructions, which explains how the move is organized, contains information about the necessary documents for drawing up the contract, and also tells how to change the kindergarten, school or clinic if necessary. The personal instruction, in turn, makes it possible to adjust the parameters for a specific life situation.

    Two more services allow you to remotely submit an application for elimination construction defects Andto call movers, who will help you move things from your old apartment to your new one for free.

    The renovation program was approved in August 2017. It concerns about a million Muscovites and provides for the resettlement of 5,176 houses. Sergei Sobyanin instructed to double the pace of implementation of the renovation program.

    Moscow is one of the leaders among regions in terms of construction volumes. High rates of housing construction correspond to the goals and initiatives of the national project “Infrastructure for life”.

    Sergei Sobyanin said that over 400 services and services of the mos.ru portal help solve almost any everyday problem

    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.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/150939073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Liverpool’s historic Chinatown set for major facelift

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Liverpool’s historic Chinatown, the oldest in Europe, is set for a major revitalization, the city council announced on Monday.

    The initiative is part of broader plans to rejuvenate the area with new homes and businesses. Supported by local community groups and the University of Liverpool’s School of Architecture, the council has designed a new square within Chinatown, which dates back to the early 1800s.

    The project will feature two ceremonial stone lions, a red maple wishing tree, and a garden, with completion expected in 2026. The stone lions will mark the 25th anniversary of the Liverpool-Shanghai sister city relationship.

    Wang Ming, secretary general of the Merseyside Chinese Association Joint Action Group, emphasized Chinatown’s deep-rooted significance. “Chinatown has been home to the local community for more than 200 years. It holds a very special place in our hearts,” Wang told Xinhua.

    The Chinese community is looking forward to the revitalization, hoping it will bring in more visitors, attract investment, and welcome tourists from around the world, Wang added.

    “Our goal is to transform Chinatown into a space that residents and the community can take pride in while also creating a welcoming destination for tourists,” city council spokesman Nick Small said. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: What They Are Saying: President Trump’s Masterclass Before Congress

    Source: The White House

    Tonight, during his first address to a joint session of Congress in his second term, President Donald J. Trump delivered a powerful, masterful speech highlighting the remarkable accomplishments of his first six weeks in office and charting a course for four years of prosperity.

    The address received widespread acclaim. 76% of Americans approved of the speech, according to a CBS poll, while a CNN poll showed 69% of Americans had a positive reaction.

    Praise immediately poured in:

    Speaker Mike Johnson: “Tonight, President Trump made his triumphant return to Congress to share his bold, optimistic vision for renewing the American Dream.”

    Sen. Ted Cruz: “This is the fifth State of the Union address I’ve seen Trump give — it was by far his best.”

    Fox News’s Bret Baier: “The best moment — emotional moment, was DJ, who’s battling cancer. He wanted to be a police officer and during the speech, the president said the Secret Service has made him an agent.”

    Fox News’s Brit Hume: “If you ever doubted that Donald Trump is the political colossus of our time and our nation, this night and this speech should have put that to rest.”

    Geraldo Rivera: “Trump was strong, defiant and entertaining.”

    Clay Travis: “This is the best speech of Donald Trump’s career. Just a phenomenal litany of common sense and rational leadership. Great and heartwarming guests. It’s a grand slam.”

    Chris Cillizza: “That was a very effective speech. You can hate it or him. But that speech was aimed squarely at issues where the public is with Trump — and filled with made-for-sharing moments. A master image-maker at work (and you can hate him and acknowledge that’s true!)”

    Riley Gaines: “I am just left feeling inspired and hopeful and there’s so much to look forward to.”

    Amber Rose: “Donald Trump just gave the greatest presidential speech of all-time.”

    Reince Priebus: “I thought it was extremely strong. When he talked about… common sense revolution, giving the government back to The People… I thought was really insightful.”

    Breitbart’s Matthew Boyle: “This speech is one of Trump’s best ever, and the Democrat behavior during it has been not only despicable but also colossally politically stupid. Whoever is advising these idiots just steered their party into an even deeper ditch than Joe Biden and Kamala Harris left them in.”

    Pennsylvania resident: “I thought it was very positive… We used to be a country that would just let everything happen… I think now, we’re taking back things that should’ve never been given away. So, I think doing those tariffs… it’s well overdue.”

    Secretary of State Marco Rubio: “An inspiring and momentous speech. @POTUS returned to the White House with a clear mandate from the American people to renew the American Dream. His address tonight laid out exactly how he is keeping those promises with a vision of peace through strength, and a stronger, safer, and more prosperous United States.”

    Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem: “Tonight, President Trump laid out his vision to renew the American dream. In just a few short weeks, President Trump’s immigration and border security policies have led to an all-time-low in illegal crossings at the southern border. The message is clear: America’s borders are closed to lawbreakers.”

    Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent: “Strength. Prosperity. Peace. Tonight, President Trump shared his historic vision for our nation in renewing the American dream. He has done more in the past six weeks for the American people, than the previous administration in four years.”

    Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum: “The previous administration used a whole-of-government approach to oppose reliable, affordable U.S. energy production in favor of unreliable, unaffordable intermittent sources. The Trump administration is working overtime to undo all the damage done during the Biden years and we are fast-tracking America’s path to a New Golden Age through Energy Dominance!”

    Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth: “Thank you @POTUS it is the honor of my life to serve the American warfighter.”

    Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins: “@POTUS spoke loud and clear on American agriculture. He loves America’s farmers, and they have no more faithful friend nor more powerful champion. He will defend them, and if anyone doubted it — they don’t after tonight.”

    Secretary of Energy Chris Wright: “President Trump is renewing the American Dream, and we here @Energy are with him every step of the way to unleash American energy dominance!”

    UN Ambassador-designate Elise Stefanik: “In just one month under President Trump, Americans have experienced record results and the renewal of the American Dream with the triumphant return of strong leadership to the Oval Office. From securing the border, to cutting wasteful spending of our hard earned taxpayer dollars, to reasserting America First peace through strength leadership to the world stage, President Trump has delivered the most exceptional first month of an American presidency in history. Promises made, promises kept. The American Golden Age is here.”

    Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Scott Turner: “The American people sent President Trump to enact generational change in Washington. What @POTUS has accomplished in less than two months is nothing short of remarkable. This is what America first feels like.”

    Small Business Administration Administrator Kelly Loeffler: “This was a tour de force of a President who, in 42 days, has more accomplishments than Joe Biden had in four years — It is a new day in America and people at home had to have loved what they’ve seen from this great President.”

    Secretary of Education Linda McMahon: “Tremendous address by President Trump tonight. America is back, & the work is only beginning. I will work hard to make @POTUS’ vision for education a reality — preparing our students for the workforce & empowering their parents will be vital to our nation’s future success.”

    EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin: “This vision of President Trump will usher in the greatest four years in American history. Honored to be a part of this amazing Cabinet working hard to restore our nation to glory. Will continue to do my part @EPA to Power the Great American Comeback.”

    Sen. Bernie Moreno: “An inspiring, emotional address from @realDonaldTrump!! But crazed partisan Dems refused to applaud even a brave young man like DJ. Appalling!”

    Sen. Rick Scott: “Under President Trump’s strong leadership, our allies respect us, our adversaries fear us, and the world respects us again!”

    Sen. Marsha Blackburn: “What a great night! President Trump gave a fantastic address and laid out the many accomplishments he and his administration have made during these first six weeks back in office for the American people.”

    Sen. Markwayne Mullin: “@POTUS commanded the podium for TWO hours. He’s restoring the American Dream with relentless determination. “The Golden Age of America has only just begun.”

    Sen. John Cornyn: “One of the best lines from President Trump tonight during his state of the union speech: to secure the border we didn’t need any new laws, what we needed was a new president!  Amen.”

    Sen. Shelley Moore Capito: “@POTUS delivered a strong vision for our country—one that prioritizes border security, unleashing American energy, strengthening our military, and providing tax relief for families.”

    Sen. Ted Budd: “Tonight was about promises made, promises kept.”

    Sen. Jim Risch: “Excellent speech, Mr. President! I am proud to work with my Republican colleagues to support President Trump’s renewal of the American Dream. @POTUS is the strong leader America needs!”

    Sen. Pete Ricketts: “It’s time to get our economy back on track. Under @POTUS’ first administration, America’s economy was strong. Tonight, we heard him commit to restoring prosperity and supporting American families. Relief is on its way—and not a minute too soon.”

    Sen. Chuck Grassley: “Pres Trump delivered a strong state of the union address He’s working w Congress to make America safer + stronger + restore common sense in govt After an impactful start to his presidency there’s a lot more work 2do”

    Sen. Jon Husted: “Tonight, the president outlined what he’s doing to make our country secure, strong, and prosperous.”

    Sen. Katie Britt: “Tonight @POTUS made it clear: We’re putting Americans first—securing our nation, making streets safe, growing our prosperity, and unleashing our energy potential.”

    Sen. Lindsey Graham: “My take on President @realDonaldTrump’s address tonight: Inspiring, funny, compelling and the Democrats’ worst nightmare.”

    Chairwoman Lisa McClain: “President Trump’s message to the American people is clear: America is BACK.”

    Rep. Claudia Tenney: “This was one of the most tremendous experiences of my life. Donald Trump hit it out of the park.”

    Rep. Brandon Gill: “Help is here. Hope is here. President Trump is here.”

    Rep. Mark Alford: “What a speech and what a time to be in America.”

    Rep. Stephanie Bice: “President Trump’s speech was a testament to the vision of the American people which was suppressed under President Biden.”

    Rep. Gary Palmer: “President Trump’s speech tonight was the embodiment of ‘promises made, promises kept.’”

    Rep. Troy Downing: “What a speech. It’s never been so clear that a new golden age is upon us. From securing our border, to unleashing American energy, to rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse, @POTUS is delivering on the promises that he ran on. A great night to be an American!”

    Rep. Anna Paulina Luna: “Tonight was historic. President Trump said he was saved by God to Make America Great Again- and THAT is our mandate.”

    Rep. Nancy Mace: “Best speech ever.”

    Rep. Jim Jordan: “Incredible speech by President Trump! Confident. Empowering. Leadership.”

    Rep. Blake Moore: “It was an honor to attend President Trump’s Joint Session tonight. He and his administration have swiftly responded to the call of Americans to secure our border, unleash domestic energy production, address rampant crime, tackle the difficult task to root out waste, fraud, and abuse in our government, and more. There is much to do legislatively in the coming months to ensure a strong economy and defense, and I look forward to working with the Trump administration to accomplish this agenda.”

    Rep. Mike Kennedy: “President Trump has emerged as the leader the United States needs right now. I look forward to working alongside him to advance our nation’s prosperity.”

    Rep. Victoria Spartz: “Great speech by President Trump! The State of the Union is strong!”

    Rep. Julia Letlow: “President Trump delivered a strong message emphasizing the promises he is keeping to secure our border, increase energy production, fix the Biden economy, and reassert American leadership.”

    Rep. Dan Meuser: “Tonight, President Trump reaffirmed his commitment to the Renewal of the American Dream and made clear that Promises Made, Promises Kept is not just a slogan—it’s a reality.”

    Rep. Ron Estes: “It was great to welcome President Trump back to Congress and I look forward to continuing to work with him to advance the America First policy agenda that will restore our nation.”

    Rep. Mike Flood: “President @realDonaldTrump’s speech to Congress was a celebration of America and the renewal our country is experiencing.”

    Rep. Sam Graves: “The Golden Age of America has ARRIVED.  Thank you, President Trump!”

    Rep. Beth Van Duyne: “In just six weeks, President Trump has made incredible progress for America: the most secure borders in our lifetime without any new money or legislation; through DOGE, he has exposed the massive fraud and money laundering of billions of dollars in the federal government; brought in more manufacturing investments (Apple, TSMC, Honda) than the entire Biden presidency; and he is working with Congress to deliver long term reforms to lower costs and expand opportunities for our hard working families.”

    Rep. Brad Finstad: “Tonight, @POTUS made clear he is putting the American people first. Since taking office, he has begun reining in an oversized, inefficient government, brought safety and security back to our communities, and restored common sense to the @WhiteHouse.”

    Rep. Rudy Yakym: “America is back! I look forward to working with President Trump to continue delivering for Hoosiers and all Americans.”

    Rep. Ben Cline: “President Trump just delivered a bold, positive vision to secure our border, revive our economy, and restore American strength. Leadership is back, our enemies are on notice, and we’re making America great again.”

    Rep. Doug LaMalfa: “Tonight, President Trump delivered a strong and optimistic message about the renewal of the American Dream. He highlighted the progress made in rebuilding our economy, securing our border, and restoring America’s leadership on the world stage.”

    Rep. Dale Strong: “President Trump is delivering on his promises. He has secured our borders and is working to revitalize our economy. The United States is seen as a symbol of strength across the globe once again, and tonight’s address proves that this administration is ready and willing to help hardworking American families.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Volta Finance Limited – Dividend Declaration

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Volta Finance Limited (VTA/VTAS)

    Dividend Declaration

    NOT FOR RELEASE, DISTRIBUTION OR PUBLICATION,
    IN WHOLE OR IN PART, IN OR INTO THE UNITED STATES

    Guernsey, 5 March 2025

    Volta Finance Limited (“the Company”) hereby announces that it has declared a quarterly interim dividend of €0.155 per share payable on 3 April 2025 amounting to approximately €5.67 million, approximately equating to an annualised 8% of net asset value. The ex-dividend date is 13 March 2025 with a record date of 14 March 2025.

    The Company has arranged for its shareholders to be able to elect to receive their dividends in either Euros or Pounds Sterling. Shareholders will, by default, receive their dividends in Euros, unless they have instructed the Company’s Registrar, Computershare Investor Services (Guernsey) Limited (“Computershare”), to pay dividends in Pounds Sterling.  Such instructions may be given to Computershare either electronically via CREST or by using the Currency Election Form which has been posted to shareholders and a copy of which is also available on the website www.voltafinance.com within the “Investors – Other Documents” section. The deadline for receipt of currency elections is 12:00 (midday) on 17 March 2025.

    CONTACTS
    For the Investment Manager
    AXA Investment Managers Paris
    François Touati
    francois.touati@axa-im.com
    +33 (0) 1 44 45 80 22

    Olivier Pons
    Olivier.pons@axa-im.com
    +33 (0) 1 44 45 87 30

    Company Secretary and Administrator
    BNP Paribas S.A., Guernsey Branch
    guernsey.bp2s.volta.cosec@bnpparibas.com 
    +44 (0) 1481 750 853

    Corporate Broker
    Cavendish Securities plc
    Andrew Worne
    Daniel Balabanoff
    +44 (0) 20 7397 8900

    *****
    ABOUT VOLTA FINANCE LIMITED

    Volta Finance Limited is incorporated in Guernsey under the Companies (Guernsey) Law, 2008 (as amended) and listed on Euronext Amsterdam and the London Stock Exchange’s Main Market for listed securities. Volta’s home member state for the purposes of the EU Transparency Directive is the Netherlands. As such, Volta is subject to regulation and supervision by the AFM, being the regulator for financial markets in the Netherlands.

    Volta’s Investment objectives are to preserve its capital across the credit cycle and to provide a stable stream of income to its Shareholders through dividends that it expects to distribute on a quarterly basis. The Company currently seeks to achieve its investment objectives by pursuing exposure predominantly to CLO’s and similar asset classes. A more diversified investment strategy across structured finance assets may be pursued opportunistically. The Company has appointed AXA Investment Managers Paris an investment management company with a division specialized in structured credit, for the investment management of all its assets.

    *****

    ABOUT AXA INVESTMENT MANAGERS
    AXA Investment Managers (AXA IM) is a multi-expert asset management company within the AXA Group, a global leader in financial protection and wealth management. AXA IM is one of the largest European-based asset managers with 2,800 professionals and €859 billion in assets under management as of the end of June 2024.  

    *****

    This press release is published by AXA Investment Managers Paris (“AXA IM”), in its capacity as alternative investment fund manager (within the meaning of Directive 2011/61/EU, the “AIFM Directive”) of Volta Finance Limited (the “Volta Finance”) whose portfolio is managed by AXA IM.

    This press release is for information only and does not constitute an invitation or inducement to acquire shares in Volta Finance. Its circulation may be prohibited in certain jurisdictions and no recipient may circulate copies of this document in breach of such limitations or restrictions. This document is not an offer for sale of the securities referred to herein in the United States or to persons who are “U.S. persons” for purposes of Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), or otherwise in circumstances where such offer would be restricted by applicable law. Such securities may not be sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration from the Securities Act. Volta Finance does not intend to register any portion of the offer of such securities in the United States or to conduct a public offering of such securities in the United States.

    *****

    This communication is only being distributed to and is only directed at (i) persons who are outside the United Kingdom or (ii) investment professionals falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (the “Order”) or (iii) high net worth companies, and other persons to whom it may lawfully be communicated, falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Order (all such persons together being referred to as “relevant persons”). The securities referred to herein are only available to, and any invitation, offer or agreement to subscribe, purchase or otherwise acquire such securities will be engaged in only with, relevant persons. Any person who is not a relevant person should not act or rely on this document or any of its contents. Past performance cannot be relied on as a guide to future performance.

    *****
    This press release contains statements that are, or may deemed to be, “forward-looking statements”. These forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, including the terms “believes”, “anticipated”, “expects”, “intends”, “is/are expected”, “may”, “will” or “should”. They include the statements regarding the level of the dividend, the current market context and its impact on the long-term return of Volta Finance’s investments. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties and readers are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. Volta Finance’s actual results, portfolio composition and performance may differ materially from the impression created by the forward-looking statements. AXA IM does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking statements.

    Any target information is based on certain assumptions as to future events which may not prove to be realised. Due to the uncertainty surrounding these future events, the targets are not intended to be and should not be regarded as profits or earnings or any other type of forecasts. There can be no assurance that any of these targets will be achieved. In addition, no assurance can be given that the investment objective will be achieved.

    The figures provided that relate to past months or years and past performance cannot be relied on as a guide to future performance or construed as a reliable indicator as to future performance. Throughout this review, the citation of specific trades or strategies is intended to illustrate some of the investment methodologies and philosophies of Volta Finance, as implemented by AXA IM. The historical success or AXA IM’s belief in the future success, of any of these trades or strategies is not indicative of, and has no bearing on, future results.

    The valuation of financial assets can vary significantly from the prices that the AXA IM could obtain if it sought to liquidate the positions on behalf of the Volta Finance due to market conditions and general economic environment. Such valuations do not constitute a fairness or similar opinion and should not be regarded as such.

    Editor: AXA INVESTMENT MANAGERS PARIS, a company incorporated under the laws of France, having its registered office located at Tour Majunga, 6, Place de la Pyramide – 92800 Puteaux. AXA IMP is authorized by the Autorité des Marchés Financiers under registration number GP92008 as an alternative investment fund manager within the meaning of the AIFM Directive.

    *****

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI China: Multiple indicators point to sustained recovery of China’s economy

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    China’s economy has started 2025 with renewed vigor, as key indicators spanning manufacturing, consumption and real estate reveal strengthening momentum, thereby signaling continued recovery and stability amid global uncertainties, experts noted.

    PMI signals expansion 

    The Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) for China’s manufacturing sector rose to 50.2 in February, up 1.1 percentage points from January and back in expansion territory, latest data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) showed.

    The non-manufacturing PMI also improved last month, edging up 0.2 percentage points to 50.4, while indices in sectors such as air transport, postal services, telecommunications, radio, television, satellite transmission services, monetary and financial services, and capital market services remained above 55 in February — indicating robust growth in overall business volume, NBS statistician Zhao Qinghe said.

    China’s composite PMI stood at 51.1 in February, up 1 percentage point from the previous month, the NBS confirmed.

    All three key PMI indicators stood in expansion territory in February, driven by post-Spring Festival production resumption and improved market confidence, reflecting that an overall recovery was gathering speed, Zhao noted.

    Robust green consumption 

    China’s green transformation of consumption in key areas has continued in 2025. Looking at new energy vehicles (NEVs) as an example, the country’s passenger car production volume reached 2.11 million units in January, up 3.6 percent year on year, while NEV output and sales soared by 25.8 percent and 10.5 percent from a year earlier to reach 940,000 units and 744,000 units, respectively.

    Complementing this growth, China’s newly-launched insurance platform for NEVs had already covered 114,000 units as of February 25, following guidelines to address challenges and bolster consumer trust in this rapidly expanding sector.

    Notably, in the first two months of 2025, China’s electric bicycle trade-in program generated healthy sales of approximately 1.019 million e-bikes, driving new sales of such bikes amounting to 2.66 billion yuan (about 370 million U.S. dollars), the Ministry of Commerce said on Monday.

    Commenting on China’s recent economic performance, Gabriel Crouse, a South African policy analyst at the Institute of Race Relations, said that compared with the fast economic growth from a relatively low baseline decades ago, China is now operating from a higher baseline and pursuing high-quality development.

    “China is continuing to lead the world in new energy vehicles, artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging sectors,” said Crouse.

    Traditional pillar sees stabilization 

    The real estate sector, a traditional pillar of domestic demand, is showing signs of stabilization, said Ming Ming, chief economist at CITIC Securities — highlighting policy tailwinds, including potential cuts to mortgage rates and relaxed purchasing restrictions in major cities, as keys to restoring market equilibrium.

    Data from E-house China R&D Institute revealed that the average destocking period for new residential homes in 100 Chinese cities was 21.3 months in January, a remarkable drop from the previous peak of 26.8 months.

    New residential home sales in Beijing surged by 47.11 percent year on year in February — with 2,295 units recorded in online sales contracts. Meanwhile, second-hand home transactions, a key segment of the city’s property market, saw a 92.3-percent increase during the same period, according to data from leading real estate website Fang.com.

    As a series of market-stabilizing policies begin to take effect, the upward trend with positive signals across the industry will become increasingly clear, promoting the entire industrial chain in this sector in entering a positive recovery cycle, said Zhang Yan, an analyst from property research institution CRIC.

    Chinese policymakers have since last year introduced a range of measures, including financial stimuli and regulatory adjustments, to bolster the property sector. These include mortgage rate cuts, lower down payment requirements, eased purchasing restrictions and financing coordination mechanisms to enhance funding support for developers.

    “To see China recognize problems and address them properly reassures investors that the Chinese economy remains a safe place to bet on,” said Crouse. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: How social institutions in the capital operate on March 7 and 8

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    On the eve of International Women’s Day, most social institutions in the capital will maintain their operating hours. However, registry offices, some medical organizations, Moscow Longevity Centers, and My Documents offices will switch to a special schedule. This was reported by Anastasia Rakova, Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Social Development.

    “In anticipation of March 8, the capital has planned many pleasant surprises for Muscovites, including concerts, exhibitions and, of course, flowers. At the same time, we are trying to do everything so that residents continue to receive the necessary assistance and services during the holiday weekend. Therefore, most social institutions, including clinics, milk distribution points, emergency rooms, veterinary clinics, will fully maintain their usual schedule or will work in a reduced mode. At the same time, some organizations, such as government service centers and registry offices, will be closed on March 8,” the deputy mayor said.

    Adult clinics will be open from 09:00 to 16:00 on March 8 and 9. Home care will be provided at the same time. ARVI offices will also accept patients from 09:00 to 16:00. 24-hour emergency rooms will continue to operate without changes. Children’s clinics will provide home care from 09:00 to 15:00. Of the antenatal clinics, only those with 10 or more sites will be open on holiday weekends. You can go there from 09:00 to 16:00. Milk distribution points will maintain their previous working hours – from 06:30 to 15:00.

    Moscow Longevity Centers will be closed on March 8. The working hours of the Unified Support Center for Participants in the Special Military Operation and their Families will not change on Saturday. 24-hour psychological assistance is available by phone: 051 (from a landline) or 7 495 051 (from a mobile). State veterinary clinics, employment centers, family and rehabilitation centers will maintain their normal working hours.

    All wedding palaces will be open until 17:00 on March 7. Civil registry offices (including wedding palaces No. 1 and 4) will be closed on March 8.

    Educational institutions and reading rooms of the Main Archives will operate as usual on Saturday and Sunday.

    The My Documents government service centers will not accept applicants on March 8. District centers will resume work on March 9 and will be open from 08:00 to 20:00, and flagship offices and the Palace of Government Services at VDNKh – from 10:00 to 22:00.

    The capital has prepared a festive program for International Women’s Day. From March 5 to 9, postcards with masterpieces from the Pushkin Museum will be available at the My Documents government service centers. Each postcard contains a compliment and information about the heroines of the paintings and the artists. The Main Archives exhibitions dedicated to representatives of different eras and professions will open on the streets. The Sistema Gallery art space in the capital will host an exhibition of photographs telling about the inspiring path of women to success. And visitors to women’s health centers and government service centers will be presented with flowers on the eve of the holiday.

    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.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/150941073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ahead of Joint Address, Senator Murray Highlights Stories of Former Federal Workers at VA, CFPB, National Park Service, Forest Service Fired Without Cause By Trump—Leaving Everyone Worse Off

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    ICYMI: Senator Murray statement on why she won’t be attending Trump’s Joint Address
    Murray has been a leading voice raising the alarm on Trump and Musk’s indiscriminate mass firings that are hurting people in Washington state and across the country— holding multiple press calls with WA federal workers, releasing fact sheets, and speaking out at every opportunity
    ***WATCH VIDEO HERE; DOWNLOAD HERE***
    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, held a virtual press conference with federal workers in Washington state who worked at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), U.S. Forest Service, and National Park Service before being recently fired—through no fault of their own and with zero justification—as part of Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s unprecedented assault on the federal workforce. Joining Senator Murray for the press conference today were: Scott Olson, a disabled veteran in Seattle who previously worked at the VA helping homeless veterans; Jordan Lewis from Seattle, a former landscape architect designing projects for the National Parks Service across Washington state; Ray Beaupre, a former seasonal worker with the U.S. Forest Service in the Methow Valley; and Ambrose Dieringer, an analyst in the supervision division of the CFPB who lives in West Seattle.
    Ahead of President Trump’s Joint Address to Congress, Senator Murray is lifting up the stories of real people in Washington state who are being hurt by Donald Trump’s reckless and illegal moves—from his indiscriminate mass firings across the federal workforce that will undermine services we all rely on and put lives at risk, to his illegal funding freezes that are seriously harming businesses and organizations across Washington state and putting them in financial jeopardy. Senator Murray’s statement on why she won’t be attending the Joint Address tonight is HERE.
    “President Trump is coming here to the Capitol… this evening to give what he is calling the State of the Union. But I expect that he will give his own fantasy version of an update on how he and Elon Musk are running the country. Because it is pretty painfully clear to me… that these two out-of-touch billionaires really have no idea what they are doing… In short, they really have no sense at all of the actual state of our union. Because they have never really taken the time to listen to the people on the frontlines who are serving our communities before they fired them!” Senator Murray said on the press call today. “Elon and Trump may not care about what these workers did; they may not get that it matters—probably because they don’t take commercial flights, or rely on Social Security benefits, or send their kids to public schools, or struggle to get health care, or have to worry about being scammed by predatory lenders. But you know what? Regular people get it. Regular people understand their work has value, it has dignity, and it makes our lives better. And regular people also understand that mass firing people, like the workers we’ll hear from right now, will make their lives worse.”
    “That may not be the narrative Elon Musk and Donald Trump try and spin tonight. But it is the truth, and the people need to hear it,” Murray continued. “I am going to keep doing what I can to lift up federal workers who can share their stories, warn everyone about what is happening, and what it’s going to mean for our country, and push to reverse as much of this damage as possible as fast as possible.”
    “Working at the VA gave me purpose. I understood the struggles veterans faced, whether physical, mental, or emotional. I took pride in being part of something bigger than myself, in continuing to serve even after taking off the uniform,” said Scott Olson, a disabled veteran who served for eight years in the Army, including time in combat, and was diagnosed with cancer twice after serving in Iraq for 15 months. Scott worked at the VA in Seattle in Program Support for VA’s Community Housing Program—helping homeless veterans—before he was suddenly fired without cause last Monday, as part of Trump and Elon Musk’s mass layoffs at VA. “The next chapter in my service led me to working with unhoused Veterans. My role was to serve as the initial contact when they came in looking for help with resources. I supported the social workers ensuring they had the ability to transport Veterans in the community. Limiting roles like mine, means other VA employees will have to take on more and cutting into valuable clinical time directly serving veterans. That’s why it was so devastating when, without warning, without cause, I was terminated. No explanation, no justification just a cold dismissal from a role that meant everything to me. It felt like a betrayal, not just of my dedication but of the values I thought the VA stood for. I had fought through war, through cancer, and through every challenge life had thrown at me only to be cast aside by the very system I had believed in.”
    “The CFPB has been open for less than 14 years, but in that time has returned over $21 billion dollars to harmed consumers in the form of compensation, principal reduction, canceled debts, and other relief. Fo every $1 spent, about $2.85 has been returned to consumers. How is that inefficient?,” said Ambrose Dieringer, an analyst in the supervision division of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) who resides in Seattle. Ambrose and many of his colleagues were suddenly put on administrative leave last month and ordered to cease working after Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Russ Vought took over as Acting Director of the CFPB, where he is working with Trump and Elon Musk to cripple the nation’s leading agency protecting consumers from financial fraud—raising serious conflict of interest concerns.
    “These recent firings are a disaster for public lands, we are already suffering from years of backlog maintenance and the effects of heavy wildfire damage across the landscape. If we do not act now to save these recreation programs, they will be lost forever along with our beloved trails,” said Ray Beaupre, who was a permanent seasonal volunteer coordinator and trails lead with the U.S. Forest Service in the Methow Valley Ranger District, before being recently laid off without cause by Trump and Musk.
    “In my role with the NPS, I was responsible for planning and implementing critical repair and upgrade projects across national park sites in the Pacific West Region, including Washington, Oregon, California, Idaho, Hawaii and the Pacific Islands. My work included renovating campgrounds impacted by wildfires, upgrades to picnic areas and outdoor restroom facilities, implementing trail projects, and much needed visitor center improvements for accessibility,” said Jordan Lewis from Seattle, a former landscape architect with the National Park Service who worked on several important projects across Washington state including: a trail project at San Juan Island National Historical Park to protect endangered Marble Butterfly habitat, a roadway safety project for bicyclists and pedestrians also at San Juan Island National Historic Park, critical upgrades to aging visitor facilities at Ross Lake Overlook and Cascade Pass in North Cascades National Park, and needed accessibility improvements at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site to meet compliance with ADA laws. “On February 14th at 4:50 PM, without warning, I received a generic email terminating me immediately. The letter stated that my skills and abilities did not meet the needs of the Department and that my position was no longer required—despite an exceptional performance review and a backlog of urgent repair projects I was hired to implement. Overnight, my dream job was taken from me and my life has been turned upside down by people I have never met. But beyond my personal loss, these mass firings of probationary employees are already having serious consequences for our national parks. On February 14th, more than 1,000 probationary employees were fired from NPS alone, creating staffing shortages that are now affecting park units nationwide. Our division has been forced to indefinitely suspend several critical projects due to the indiscriminate removal of dedicated NPS employees.”
    Senator Murray has been raising the alarm nonstop about how mass firings at all manner of federal agencies will hurt families, veterans, small businesses, farmers, and so many others in Washington state and across the country. Senator Murray has spoken out on the Senate floor against this administration’s attacks on federal workers and held multiple press conferences to call attention to how Trump and Musk’s mass layoffs are hurting federal workers in Washington state and undermining services for everyone. Earlier this month, she released both a national fact sheet and a Washington state fact sheet detailing what we know about the mass layoffs so far. Senator Murray also sent an open letter to federal workers and a newsletter to her constituents in Washington state outlining her concerns with the administration’s so-called “Fork in the Road” offer.
    Senator Murray has also sent a flurry of recent oversight letters demanding answers about indiscriminate staffing reductions across federal agencies—including letters to HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on mass firings across HHS as well as a letter focused specifically on firings at FDA, Energy Secretary Chris Wright on indiscriminate firings at BPA, HUD Secretary Scott Turner on reports of massive staff cuts at HUD, Interior Secretary Doug Burham on National Parks Service staffing cuts, and Acting USDA Secretary Gary Washington on the universal hiring pause for USDA firefighters, among others.
    Senator Murray’s full remarks, as delivered on today’s press call, are below and video is HERE:
    “Thank you to all of you for joining us today. I think as everybody knows, President Trump is coming here to the Capitol, where I am, this evening, to give what he is calling the State of the Union. But I expect that he will give his own fantasy version of an update on how he and Elon Musk are running the country.
    “Because it is pretty painfully clear to me, from all of the contacts we are getting from around our state and everywhere, that it’s pretty clear that these two out-of-touch billionaires really have no idea what they are doing. They have no idea how painful cuts and mass firings they have gone on with such glee—how that’s hurting our families, and in short, they really have no sense at all of the actual state of our union.
    “Because they have never really taken the time to listen to the people on the frontlines who are serving our communities before they fired them.
    “So on this call, today, I am going to make sure we hear from some real people, real federal workers who were actually doing the work of the American people, and know what the damaging effects have been over the last few weeks.  
    “Because the truth is: the state of the union is that Trump fired forest rangers. The state of the union is that he fired cancer researchers. He fired people who keep Social Security running. And he fired thousands upon thousands of veterans who work to serve all of our communities.
    “And at risk of saying the obvious—that will make our country weaker, it will make life a lot worse for folks back home. It is going to mean less safe conditions, longer lines at our National Parks and forests, places like Mt. Rainer, and North Cascades, and Olympic National Park, and Mount St. Helens. […]
    “It’s going to mean longer wait times to get help with Social Security benefits. It is going to mean clinical trials at the Fred Hutch getting canceled, and promising cures will not happen, they’ll just get tossed in the shredder. It is going to mean slower response to disease outbreaks, and slower recalls of contaminated food. It is going to mean less help for people trying to get health insurance, or find child care. Fewer workers supporting air traffic control that keeps our skies safe at SeaTac.
    “And despite what we might hear from Trump tonight, we know it’s not about saving money. Because we actually saw them fire Bonneville Power Administration workers—they are not paid by taxpayers, they are paid by ratepayers in the Pacific Northwest.
    “We also know this is not about merit, because they mass fired so many people who had recently been promoted for doing a good job!
    “Right here in Washington state, they even fired a NOAA employee of the year—someone who worked on saving orcas, and salmon, and wildlife from oil spills.
    “I don’t know who Trump and Musk think they are fooling, but it doesn’t take a lot of common sense to realize: you don’t make the government work better by giving the richest man in the world a baseball bat and letting him smash it to pieces. This has been just heartbreaking, and infuriating.
    “I have spoken to so many federal workers, public servants—who took so much pride in the work they do to strengthen our country, building our communities, supporting families, helping our neighbors.
    “As you will hear this evening, the work they do is because they care. Because they know it’s important. And that’s why they were federal employees.
    “Elon and Trump may not care about what these workers did; they may not get that it matters—probably because they don’t take commercial flights, or rely on Social Security benefits, or send their kids to public schools, or struggle to get health care, or have to worry about being scammed by predatory lenders.
    “But you know what? Regular people get it. Regular people understand their work has value, it has dignity, and it makes our lives better. And regular people also understand that mass firing people, like the workers we’ll hear from right now, will make their lives worse.
    “That may not be the narrative that Elon Musk and Donald Trump try to spin tonight for everybody. But it’s the truth, and it’s really important that people hear it.
    “And I am going to keep doing what I can to lift up our federal workers, help share their stories, warn people about what’s happening, what it will mean for our communities and our country, and really work hard to reverse the damage that’s happening so fast. 
    “So I really appreciate the workers who are on here tonight to share their personal stories. I know it’s been really traumatic and difficult for all of you, so thank you for coming on this evening.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Meets With His Guest, Dr. Sokol, Ahead of President Trump’s Address To Joint Session Of Congress

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
    March 04, 2025
    Dr. Sokol, whose medical research on neuroblastoma has been jeopardized by Trump’s funding freeze, is a practicing oncologist and researcher from Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago
    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today met with his guest for President Trump’s address to the joint session of Congress, Dr. Elizabeth Sokol, a practicing oncologist and medical researcher at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago.  Dr. Sokol specializes in treating children with neuroblastoma, the leading cause of cancer death for children aged one to five.  Dr. Sokol is in the midst of conducting federally-supported clinical trials that are now being endangered by the Trump Administration’s devastating, and illegal, cuts to funding and resources at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). 
    Like Dr. Sokol, many NIH-funded researchers and institutions are facing an uncertain future because of President Trump and Elon Musk’s move to shut off critical research funding.  Illinois universities and hospitals receive approximately $1.2 billion annually in NIH funding—which supports 14,000 jobs in the state and $3.5 billion in economic activity.  Reports indicate that 1,200 NIH employees have been fired so far under President Trump and Musk’s direction—from experienced vaccine researchers and the next generation of scientists, to the Acting Director of the NIH’s Alzheimer’s and dementia program. Further, President Trump and Musk have reportedly ended a popular trainee program that brought 1,600 young scientists just out of college to the NIH’s world-renowned campus in Maryland to help run labs.
    “President Trump and Elon Musk are carrying out an unprecedented and devastating campaign to cut research funding for cancers, ALS, Alzheimer’s, dementia, and infectious disease.  NIH funding is why people are beating cancer, why babies are being spared from preventable illnesses, why HIV is no longer a death sentence, and why progress is being made on neurodegenerative diseases.  There are millions of Americans impacted by these diseases, and any move to slash medical research funding will have long-term consequences for the health of our country,” Durbin said.
    Durbin continued, “These haphazard decisions by President Trump have real, serious repercussions.  Dr. Sokol, a pediatric oncologist and researcher at Lurie Children’s Hospital in Chicago, has dedicated more than a decade to the research and treatment of children suffering from neuroblastoma.  Today, her research, which helps kids lead healthier lives after surviving cancer, is in jeopardy because of Donald Trump.”
    Durbin concluded, “Additionally, plans by Congressional Republicans to slash Medicaid funding to pay for tax breaks for billionaires like Elon Musk mean that Lurie’s in Chicago and other children’s hospitals nationwide are facing devastating cuts to their lifesaving treatment for critically ill kids.”
    “It’s an honor to be here representing pediatric researchers from Illinois,” said Dr. Sokol. “ As a physician-scientist at the bedside at one of our nation’s premier children’s research hospitals, I have witnessed firsthand how federally funded research—including the essential indirect costs that support it—has allowed for remarkable breakthroughs that help children faced with devastating diagnoses including childhood cancer. It is critically important to have congressional leaders such as Senator Durbin working hard to protect NIH funding including indirect costs, which are vital for sustaining the scientific and clinical research infrastructure. These costs help researchers translate basic discoveries into new treatments and cures for children, who have their whole lives ahead of them.”
    Photos of the meeting can be found here.
    B-roll for TV stations can be found here.
    Last week, Durbin asked for unanimous consent (UC) to pass a resolution he introduced with U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), as well as 21 other Senators, that would pledge support for NIH.  The resolution simply said that the work of NIH should not be subject to interruption, delay, or funding disruptions in violation of the law, and it reaffirmed that the NIH workforce is essential to sustaining medical progress.  U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-WY) rejected Durbin’s UC request.
    Durbin has long been a strong advocate for robust medical research. His legislation, the American Cures Act, would provide annual budget increases of five percent plus inflation at America’s top four biomedical research agencies: NIH, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Department of Defense Health Program, and the Veterans Medical and Prosthetics Research Program. Thanks to Durbin’s efforts to increase medical research funding, Congress has provided NIH with a 60 percent funding increase over the past decade.
    Congressional Republicans have proposed deep cuts to Medicaid to fund their budget reconciliation bill, with the House Republican budget resolution calling for $880 billion in cuts to Medicaid.  Cuts of this magnitude would fundamentally alter the Medicaid program, likely reducing coverage or slashing benefits for millions of working families across the United States.  In Illinois, 3.4 million individuals are enrolled in Medicaid, including nearly 1.5 million children.  Further, in Illinois, Medicaid covers nearly half of all births, two-thirds of nursing home residents, the majority of patients with behavioral health needs, and is a lifeline for children’s and rural hospitals. 
    Dr. Elizabeth Sokol’s Bio:
    Dr. Sokol received her medical degree from the University of Illinois School of Medicine in 2007, prior to completing her Pediatrics residency at the University of Chicago/Comer Children’s Hospital. She completed a fellowship in Pediatric Hematology/Oncology in 2017 before completing a post-doctoral program in clinical pharmacology and pharmacogenomics in 2018 at University of Chicago. Dr. Sokol subsequently became a member of the Pediatric Hematology/Oncology division at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago in September 2018.
    Dr. Sokol’s research interests involve the study of pediatric patients with neuroblastoma. As a member of the Children’s Oncology Group’s Neuroblastoma Committee, she participates in the development of new therapeutic clinical trials for patients with high-risk disease. She serves as the Children’s Oncology Group Pediatric Early Phase Clinical Trial Network site PI, bringing early phase trial opportunities to patients with relapsed or refractory disease. In addition, Dr. Sokol has worked with the Lurie Children’s pharmacogenomic steering committee to increase utilization of pharmacogenomic testing to optimize drug utilization for patients with complex pharmacology needs.
    Dr. Sokol’s clinical focus centers on the treatment of pediatric solid tumor patients, including those with neuroblastoma, sarcomas, rare tumors, renal tumors, liver tumors, and germ cell tumors. Through her work with the Children’s Oncology Group’s Neuroblastoma Committee, she participates in the development of new therapeutic clinical trials for neuroblastoma patients.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Democrats Showed Whose Side They’re On — And it’s Not the American People

    Source: The White House

    Tonight, President Donald J. Trump delivered bold, forward-looking remarks before a joint session of Congress — highlighting the historic accomplishments already achieved in his second term and setting the course for four years of prosperity and strength.

    Unfortunately, Congressional Democrats were too consumed by their own hatred of President Trump, refusing to show support for lowering taxes, fighting childhood cancer, capturing terrorists, protecting women and girls in sports, or law and order — to name only a few.

    As Dana Perino said, “The Democratic Party still has no common sense. They have no ideas and they have no heart. They couldn’t even stand for the most inspiring moments of the speech.”

    Tonight, Democrats refused to applaud:

    • The capturing of an ISIS terrorist that masterminded the Abbey Gate attack
    • A young boy fighting brain cancer
    • A call to lower taxes for middle-class Americans
    • Americans joining the military in record numbers
    • Law and order
    • Taking down illegal revenge porn
    • Protecting women’s sports
    • The United States of America
    • Working together to Make America Great Again
    • Ending the harmful electric vehicle mandate
    • Cutting regulations to unleash American prosperity
    • Ending censorship and bringing back free speech
    • Ending discriminatory “diversity, equity, and inclusion”
    • Recognizing only two sexes
    • Defeating inflation
    • Unleashing American energy
    • Ending waste, fraud, and abuse in government
    • Ending taxes on tips, overtime, and seniors’ Social Security
    • Bringing manufacturing home to America
    • Securing historic investments in American chip manufacturing
    • Removing illegal alien killers, rapists, and drug dealers from our streets
    • Securing our border
    • Declaring the brutal Tren de Aragua gang as a Foreign Terrorist Organization
    • Waging war on the deadly cartels trafficking deadly drugs into our country
    • Punishing cop killers with the death penalty
    • Promoting health and wellness among Americans
    • Protecting our kids from radical gender ideology
    • Ending the sexual mutilation of America’s youth
    • The return of American Marc Fogel
    • Declaring America’s youth are perfect as God made them
    • Ending wokeness in the U.S. military
    • Restoring American shipbuilding
    • A student getting accepted to West Point
    • Improving America’s defenses
    • Pursuing peace in Ukraine

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Honoring Jocelyn Nungaray

    Source: The White House

    class=”has-text-align-left”>              By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered:

            Section 1.  Purpose and Policy.  The prior administration’s immigration policies inexcusably endangered and caused enormous suffering within our Nation, including by causing the southern border to be overrun by cartels, criminal gangs, known terrorists, human traffickers, smugglers, unvetted military-age males from foreign adversaries, and illicit narcotics.  These open-border policies are responsible for the horrific and inexcusable murders of many innocent American citizens at the hands of illegal aliens.

            One of those innocent victims was Jocelyn Nungaray, whose life was tragically cut short on June 17, 2024, when she was brutally murdered in Houston, Texas.  Two Venezuelan illegal aliens who were allegedly Tren de Aragua gang members and were apprehended near the border in early 2024 — and then released into the United States by the prior administration — have been charged with her murder.  Jocelyn was a precious 12 year old girl beloved by her family and friends for her kindness and infectious zeal for life.  She loved animals and had a passion for ensuring that they had homes.  It is fitting and in the national interest, therefore, that the Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge, a scenic area for coastal wildlife and recreation along the Gulf of America near Jocelyn’s home in Texas, will forever honor and preserve the memory of a beautiful American, Jocelyn Nungaray.

            Sec. 2.  Renaming the Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge to Honor Jocelyn Nungaray.  Within 30 days of the date of this order, pursuant to authority under the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act (16 U.S.C. 668dd-668ee) and other applicable law, the Secretary of the Interior (Secretary) shall update procedures as necessary and take all other appropriate actions to rename the area known as the “Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge” as the “Jocelyn Nungaray National Wildlife Refuge” and ensure that her life is permanently commemorated therein.  The Secretary shall subsequently provide guidance to ensure all Federal references to the Jocelyn Nungaray National Wildlife Refuge, including on agency maps, contracts, and other documents and communications, reflect its renaming.

            Sec. 3.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
                 (i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or
                 (ii)  the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
            (b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.

    (c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

                                  DONALD J. TRUMP

    THE WHITE HOUSE,

        March 4, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: WISeKey WISeID Provides Healthcare Security with Decentralized Digital Identities

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WISeKey WISeID Provides Healthcare Security with Decentralized Digital Identities

    Geneva, Switzerland, March 5, 2025 –WISeKey International Holding Ltd (“WISeKey”) (SIX: WIHN, NASDAQ: WKEY), a leading global cybersecurity, blockchain, and IoT company, today announces that its WISeID.COM introduces a groundbreaking approach to healthcare data security by enabling decentralized consultations through blockchain-secured digital identities, encryption, and self-sovereign identity (SSI) principles. This next-generation platform ensures that patients maintain full control over their medical records, granting access only to authorized healthcare providers through consent-based permissions, eliminating third-party control and significantly reducing risks of data breaches and identity theft.

    Traditional healthcare systems store patient records in centralized databases controlled by hospitals, clinics, and insurers, limiting interoperability while exposing sensitive data to cyber threats. With WISeID.COM, the healthcare industry can shift towards a decentralized, patient-centric model that enhances privacy, security, and accessibility. Patients can securely share specific medical information with healthcare professionals without exposing their entire health history, ensuring seamless telemedicine and cross-border consultations.

    Advanced Security with Post-Quantum Cryptography and Zero-Knowledge Proofs

    WISeID.COM integrates post-quantum cryptography and zero-knowledge proofs to safeguard medical records from emerging cyber threats. This ensures that:

    • Sensitive health data remains encrypted at all times.
    • Patients can selectively share medical records without disclosing unrelated health information.
    • Telemedicine services and cross-border healthcare providers can securely access patient records without manual transfers or centralized intermediaries.
    • Dynamic access controls enable temporary or conditional data sharing, granting permissions for a limited time or specific use cases.
    • Biometric authentication ensures that only the rightful patient can access and manage their health records.

    Addressing the Failures of Centralized Health Systems

    Current electronic health record (EHR) systems create data silos, limiting accessibility and making it difficult for patients to share their information across different providers or jurisdictions. These systems are frequent targets for cyberattacks, often resulting in the hacking, leaking, or unauthorized sale of sensitive medical data. Worse yet, patients typically lack visibility into who accesses their information, creating a lack of trust and control over their own health records.

    By leveraging blockchain-secured digital identities, WISeID.COM provides an alternative that:

    • Empowers patients with full ownership and control of their health data.
    • Reduces bureaucracy by enabling real-time, consent-based access to records.
    • Improves healthcare trust through a transparent and tamper-proof system.
    • Mitigates security risks associated with centralized storage and unauthorized access.

    A New Era for Secure and Interoperable Healthcare

    WISeID.COM represents a paradigm shift for the healthcare industry, bridging the gap between security, privacy, and interoperability. As healthcare increasingly moves towards digitalization, ensuring data sovereignty and patient control is crucial. WISeID.COM enables a future where health information is secure, verifiable, and instantly accessible, without compromising privacy or patient rights.

    About WISeKey

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

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

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

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

    Press and Investor Contacts

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: PREPARED REMARKS: Sanders Delivers Livestreamed Response’ to President Trump’s Congressional Address 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Vermont – Bernie Sanders
    WASHINGTON, March 4 – Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) today delivered remarks following President Trump’s address to a joint session of Congress. Over 91,000 viewers watched in real time on his social media platforms.
    Sanders’ remarks, as prepared for delivery, are below and can be watched here.
    Hello everybody. Thanks for joining.
    As most Americans know, we are living in a pivotal moment in American history – facing unprecedented challenges. How we respond to this moment will impact not only OUR lives, but the lives of our kids and grandchildren and, in terms of climate change, the very health and well-being of our planet.
    As you heard tonight, President Trump has been very effective in creating what I would call a “parallel universe” for his supporters – a set of ideas that either have NO basis in reality or, in the great scheme of things, are nowhere near the most important concerns of the American people.
    And one way that he does that is through the concept of the BIG LIE. Say something that is grossly false, say it over and over again, and have right-wing social media blast it out endless times, until people actually believe it.
    And then, rather than address the real issues facing the American people, we find ourselves wasting endless amounts of time discussing Trump’s absurdities.
    Just a few examples:
    Trump has claimed that the 2020 election was stolen from him and that he won by a landslide. A lie.
    Trump has claimed that the January 6th insurrection was a day of love. A lie.
    Trump has claimed that millions of undocumented people vote in American elections. A lie.
    Trump has claimed that climate change is a hoax originating in China. A lie.
    Trump has claimed that Ukraine started the horrific war with Russia. A lie.
    And tonight, Trump claimed that millions of dead people between the ages of 100 and 360 were collecting Social Security checks. That is an outrageous lie intended to lay the groundwork for cuts to Social Security and dismantling the most successful and popular government program in history.
    Let’s be clear: Well over 99% of Social Security checks are going out to people who earned those checks – 70 million people. Nobody who is 150 years old or 200 years old or 300 years old is receiving Social Security checks.
    And on and on it goes.
    Now, the purpose of all of this lying is not just to push his hateful right-wing ideology. It is not just to try to divide us up. It’s more than that.
    It’s a masterful effort to deflect attention away from the most important issues facing the people of our country, issues that Trump and his billionaire friends do not want to address because it’s not in their financial interests to do so.
    Trump gave his “State of the Union” speech tonight. But that speech had very little to say ABOUT the state of the union – about what is REALLY going on in our country – especially for working families.
    Trump spoke for 90 minutes and he almost completely ignored the issues that are keeping working people up at night – as they worry about how their families are going to survive in these tough times.
    And I’ll tell you exactly WHY Trump had very little to say about the REAL crises facing the working class of this country.
    Think back 6 weeks ago when Trump was inaugurated for his second term as President – just 6 weeks ago. Standing right behind him were the three wealthiest men in the country – Mr. Musk, Mr. Bezos and Mr. Zuckerberg. And standing behind THEM were 13 other billionaires who Trump had nominated to head major government agencies. Many of these same billionaires – including Musk – were there tonight.
    In other words, it is there for all to see. They’re not hiding it. The Trump administration IS a government of the billionaire class, by the billionaire class and for the billionaire class.
    Notwithstanding some of their rhetoric, this is a government that could care less about the working families of this country.
    My friends. We are no longer MOVING TOWARD oligarchy. We are LIVING IN an oligarchy.
    Now, let’s take a moment and try to escape from Trump’s parallel universe. Let’s do something really radical.
    Let’s actually take a hard look at the problems that Americans are facing.
    Today, 60% of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck. Unlike Trump, I grew up in a family that lived paycheck to paycheck. And I know something about that reality.
    It means that every day millions of Americans worry about how they’re going to pay their rent. Pay for childcare. Pay for a doctor’s visit when they get sick.
    They worry about what happens when their car breaks down and they can’t afford the thousand bucks it costs to get it fixed, and what happens when they can’t get to work because they don’t have a car. They worry about how they can afford to buy healthy food for their children when the price of food is off the charts.
    Funny. I did not hear one word from Trump tonight about the economic reality facing 60% of our people, or the enormous stress that they are living under.
    But that’s not all.
    Today in America, everyone knows that our healthcare system is broken, it is dysfunctional and it is outrageously expensive. We remain the only wealthy nation on earth not to guarantee healthcare for all.
    Mr. President: You really want to Make America Great Again? Then make sure that every American, regardless of income, can go to a doctor or a hospital and not worry about how they’re going to pay the bills.
    President Trump: Health care is a human right. I didn’t hear one word from you about that.
    Nor did I hear you say why we pay, by far, the highest prices in the world for prescription drugs – sometimes 10 times more than the people in other countries – and why one out of four Americans are unable to afford the prescriptions that their doctors prescribe.
    Mr. President: We have nearly 800,000 Americans who are homeless. Over 20 million of our people spend more than 50% of their limited income on housing. We have a major housing crisis in America – everyone knows it. And in your speech tonight, you didn’t even mention it.
    Today in America, we have more income and wealth inequality than we have ever had. The three richest people in America, the folks Trump invited to stand behind him at his inauguration, now own more wealth than the bottom half of our society – 170 million Americans. Did you hear one word from the President on that enormously important issue which gets to the very fabric of our society?
    And here’s something else the President forgot to discuss. Not only is our life expectancy 4 years lower than other wealthy countries, the bottom 50% in this country live, on average, 7 years shorter lives than the top 1%. In other words, being poor or working class in this country is a death sentence. Did you hear any discussion tonight as to why so many of our people are living shorter lives than they should?
    During his speech tonight, Trump did not have one word to say about how we are going to address the planetary crisis of climate change. The last 10 years have been the warmest ever recorded, and extreme weather disturbances and natural disasters have been taking place all over the world – from California to India, across Europe to North Carolina. And yet, not surprisingly, Trump had nothing to say about climate change.
    And let’s be clear. Not only did Trump fail to talk about some of the most important issues facing the working class of America, but “the SOLUTIONS” he proposed would only make a bad situation even worse.
    Yes, I did hear Trump talk tonight about some tax breaks for working families in terms of not taxing tips, not taxing Social Security and not taxing overtime. Fine. But that’s chump change compared to the benefits he’s going to give the 1%, and doesn’t tell the whole story about his tax policies.
    According to a recent study by the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy, if all of Trump’s so-called “America First” policies are enacted, including his tariffs, the bottom 95% of Americans will see their taxes go up, while the richest 5% in our country will see their taxes go down. WAY DOWN.
    Tonight, Trump urged Congress to pass his “big, beautiful” budget.
    Do you know what’s really in it?
    This budget would cut Medicaid by $880 billion. According to one estimate, it means that up to 36 million Americans, including millions of children, would be thrown off the health insurance they have.
    It means that nursing homes that receive two-thirds of their funding from Medicaid would either have to shut down, lay off workers or significantly scale back the services they provide seniors.
    It would be a devastating blow for the 32 million Americans who get their health care at community health centers.
    And, it’s not just Medicaid. Trump’s budget would cut nutrition assistance by at least $230 billion. Can you imagine? The billionaire class, people who can support their families for the next ten generations, people who live in incredible opulence, people who own their own jet planes, private islands and space ships, trying to get tax breaks by taking food out of the mouths of low-income kids. That truly is disgusting.
    What we are seeing is the Robin Hood principle in reverse – taking from the poor and giving to the rich.
    And here is something else Trump has been doing.
    For the past several weeks, he and Elon Musk have been throwing hundreds of thousands of federal employees off their jobs. Now, I know some of you are saying, “That’s too bad, but that’s the federal government, not me.”
    But I want you to think about this: If they can arbitrarily throw federal workers out on the street today, what do you think that Musk and his fellow billionaires will be doing tomorrow when Artificial Intelligence and robotics explode in this country?
    Do you think they’ll give a damn about you and your families? No. You’ll be out on the street as well.
    But it is not only absurd domestic policies that we’ve got to fight.
    For the first time in our 250-year history we have a president who is turning his back on democracy and allying us with authoritarianism. No. We must not abandon the people of Ukraine who were invaded by the Russian dictator, Vladimir Putin. We must always stand for democracy, not dictatorship.
    Let me be very clear. Regardless of where Trump is taking this country, here’s where I think Americans want to go:
    They want us to end a corrupt campaign finance system, which allows a handful of billionaires to buy elections. It is beyond crazy that someone like Elon Musk can contribute over $270 million to help get Trump elected and then gets to run the government.
    It is absurd that any Member of Congress who stands up to Netanyahu’s brutal war in Gaza can expect to be opposed by millions of dollars in campaign contributions from AIPAC.
    They want us to end the disastrous Citizens United Supreme Court decision and move to the public funding of elections. Democracy is supposed to be about one person, one vote – not billionaires buying the political candidates of their choice.
    No. We should not be giving tax breaks to billionaires. We must demand that they pay their fair share of taxes.
    We must raise the federal minimum wage of $7.25 an hour to a living wage of at least $17 an hour.
    We must make it easier for workers to join trade unions, grow the union movement and prevent corporations from violating labor laws with impunity by passing the PRO Act – legislation I will be introducing tomorrow.
    No, we’re not going to cut Social Security. Quite the contrary, we must expand Social Security benefits and extend its solvency for the next 75 years by scrapping the cap that allows a billionaire to pay the same amount into Social Security as a truck driver.
    Instead of making massive cuts to Medicaid, we must join every other major country on earth in guaranteeing healthcare to all of our people through a Medicare for All, single-payer program.
    We must also take on the greed of the pharmaceutical industry and reduce prescription drug prices by 50%.
    At a time of a terrible housing crisis in every area of our country, we must build at least 4 million units of low-income and affordable housing, stop corporate landlords from jacking up rent prices and establish a cap on rent.
    In a competitive global economy, we need the best educated workforce in the world. All of our young people must have the ability to get a higher education by making public colleges, trade schools and universities tuition-free and canceling student debt.
    Yes. We can create millions of good-paying jobs by combating climate change and moving our energy system away from fossil fuels and into sustainable energy.
    I heard a lot of talk about freedom tonight. Well, in a free society, we must absolutely guarantee that it is the women of America who control their own bodies, not the local, state or federal governments.
    Now, I know there are a lot of people out there who are feeling angry and frustrated at what’s going on here in Washington, DC. And some of you may feel a bit hopeless.
    So let me say this.
    At this particular moment in history, despair is not an option. Giving up is not acceptable. And none of us have the privilege of hiding under the covers. The stakes are just too high.
    Let us never forget. Real change only occurs when ordinary people stand up against oppression and injustice – and fight back.
    That is the history of the founding of our nation when brave men and women took on the mighty British empire. It is the history of the abolitionist movement, the labor movement, the civil rights movement, the women’s movement, the environmental movement and the gay rights movement.
    Yes, the oligarchs ARE enormously powerful. They have endless amounts of money. They control our economy. They own much of the media. They have enormous influence over our political system.
    But, from the bottom of my heart, I am convinced that they can be beaten.
    If we stand together and not let them divide us up by the color of our skin or where we were born or our religion or sexual orientation; if we bring our people together around an agenda that works for the many and not the few – there is nothing in the world that can stop us.
    We can win. We will win. Let’s go forward together.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Strong confidence, policies fuel property market recovery

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Driven by a series of pro-housing policies, China’s property sector has gained momentum in recent months, with increased transaction activity and renewed development vitality among real estate enterprises, signaling a shift toward a healthier and more sustainable growth trend.

    With improving sentiment among homebuyers, transactions for both new and secondhand homes in multiple cities have shown an upward trend since the beginning of this year, fostering a more balanced relationship between supply and demand in the market, according to industry analysts.

    New residential home sales in Beijing surged 47.11 percent year-on-year last month, with 2,295 units recorded in online sales contracts. Meanwhile, secondhand home transactions, a key segment of the city’s property market, saw a 92.3 percent increase during the same period, according to data from leading real estate website Fang.com.

    In Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, a second-tier city and hub for leading sci-tech firms, the number of daily visits to a new residential site in Xihu district, developed by Vanke, surpassed 100 groups during the first weekend after the Spring Festival holiday, double the figure from the previous week.

    This trend can be attributed to improving customer sentiment, driven by the city’s rising prominence and promising development prospects, according to the project’s marketing manager.

    The growing turnover volume has helped relieve destocking pressure in the property market. The average destocking period for new residential homes in 100 Chinese cities was 21.3 months in January, a remarkable drop from the previous peak of 26.8 months, data from the E-house China R&D Institute showed.

    “The shorter destocking cycle will create more favorable conditions for achieving a balanced supply and demand relationship in the real estate market throughout the year,” said Yan Yuejin, deputy director of the institute.

    As the property market continues to rebound, leading domestic and foreign real estate developers are accelerating land acquisitions and leveraging expanded financing channels, signaling a broader recovery trend across the industry.

    Shanghai’s first batch of land auctions for 2025, which began on Feb 20, saw a strong return of property developers eager to acquire land. Gemdale Group made its first land purchase in the city in 21 months, while Singapore-based developers Frasers Property and Kheng Leong Co joined the bidding, bringing the total transaction value to 15.93 billion yuan ($2.19 billion).

    Poly Developments and Holdings Group recently announced the purchases of six land parcels in cities like Guangzhou and Foshan in Guangdong province, and Sanya in Hainan province, with total investments nearing 10 billion yuan. Meanwhile, Vanke secured four development sites in Tianjin, Hebei province’s Tangshan, Guangdong’s Guangzhou and Guizhou province’s Guiyang, covering a combined land area of 213,000 square meters.

    Analysts believe the latest acquisitions by leading developers signal renewed confidence about the sector’s prospects and growing optimism in the market’s long-term outlook as government support measures gain traction.

    Since last year, Chinese policymakers have introduced a series of measures — from financial stimuli to regulatory adjustments — to bolster the property sector. These include mortgage rate cuts, lower down payment requirements, eased purchase restrictions and financing coordination mechanisms to enhance funding support for developers.

    According to data from the National Financial Regulatory Administration, the approved loan amount for “white list” projects, designed to support companies with reasonable financing needs, reached 5.6 trillion yuan by Jan 22, surpassing the initial target of 4 trillion yuan.

    As China navigates further policy support for the sector, it has vowed to actively promote the use of local government special bonds for efficient management of idle land and disposal of existing commercial housing, while leveraging financial tools such as loans and bonds to support stable financing for the real estate sector, according to an official in charge of the mechanisms.

    Chinese property companies have also experienced positive shifts in financing through more diversified channels, including domestic and overseas bond markets. These developments reflect improved financing capabilities of the enterprises and stronger confidence among foreign institutions in these developers, according to Yan.

    In January, bond financing of real estate enterprises reached 50.98 billion yuan in total, with declining interest rates compared to the same period last year, data from the China Index Academy showed.

    Last month, Greentown China announced the issuance of $350 million in dollar-denominated bonds maturing in 2028. This marks the first dollar bond issuance by a private real estate enterprise this year, and industry experts believe it will encourage more real estate enterprises to resume overseas financing.

    As market-stabilizing policies take effect, the upward trend across the industry will become increasingly evident, pushing the entire industrial chain in the sector into a positive recovery cycle, said Zhang Yan, an analyst from property research institution CRIC.

    Looking ahead, China is expected to see a recovery in both supply and demand in the property sector and month-on-month turnover growth during the peak sales season known as “Golden March and Silver April,” with sales surges likely to occur in multiple cities, according to the CRIC.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Applauds President’s Vision for Restoring Economic Opportunity

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo
    Washington D.C.–U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) issued the following statement after President Donald Trump’s Joint Address to Congress.
    “Tonight, President Trump detailed his early accomplishments and outlined an ambitious agenda.  In just a few short weeks, this Administration has taken great strides to correct course from the last four years by securing our homeland, re-establishing American strength, unleashing American energy and boldly addressing the size and scope of the federal government in an historically transparent fashion. 
    “Looking forward, one of the President’s top priorities this year–which I share as Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee–is to prevent an over-$4 trillion tax hike on American workers and businesses by permanently extending and building on his signature tax bill from 2017, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.
    “If President Trump’s tax cuts are not renewed before the end of this year, average American families will be hit with thousands of dollars in tax increases, millions of small business owners will see their tax rates skyrocket, and millions of jobs will be in jeopardy.  Idahoans alone will see their taxes go up by an average of $2,554 in 2026.  Working class Americans have the most on the line, as the majority of the tax cut’s expiration would fall on those making less than $400,000 per year. 
    “The President has been clear: we must permanently extend the Trump Tax Cuts and prevent a massive tax hike on American workers, families and small businesses.
    “Americans across the board benefited from a roaring economy in the wake of President Trump’s 2017 tax cuts.  Workers got ahead as household incomes increased and every demographic benefitted from a strong labor market.  The unemployment rate plummeted to the lowest levels in 50 years and the largest wage increases were seen by the lowest-earning workers.  Business investment increased productivity and innovation, bringing companies back home and making the U.S. economy the envy of the world.
    “Extending this current, proven tax policy–and building upon it–is the best way to restore economic prosperity and opportunity for Idaho’s hardworking families, many still struggling to recover from the historic inflation of the last four years.
    “Failure to extend the Trump tax cuts is simply not an option.  I am committed to working with the Administration and congressional leadership to make these tax cuts permanent and provide relief and certainty to families and businesses across America.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Statement on President Trump’s Joint Address to Congress

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo
    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) issued the statement below following President Trump’s Joint Address to Congress.

    To view an abbreviated version of Senator Crapo’s remarks, click HERE or the image above.
    “Tonight, President Trump detailed his early accomplishments and outlined an ambitious agenda.  In just a few short weeks, this Administration has taken great strides to correct course from the last four years by securing our homeland, re-establishing American strength, unleashing American energy and boldly addressing the size and scope of the federal government in an historically transparent fashion. 
    “Looking forward, one of the President’s top priorities this year–which I share as Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee–is to prevent an over-$4 trillion tax hike on American workers and businesses by permanently extending and building on his signature tax bill from 2017, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.
    “If this popular tax law expires at the end of this year, average American families will be hit with thousands of dollars in tax increases, millions of small business owners will see their tax rates skyrocket, and millions of jobs will be in jeopardy.  Idahoans alone will see their taxes go up by an average of $2,554 in 2026.  Working class Americans have the most on the line, as the majority of the tax cut’s expiration would fall on those making less than $400,000 per year. 
    “The President has been clear–we must permanently extend the Trump Tax Cuts and prevent a massive tax hike on American workers, families and small businesses.
    “Americans across the board benefited from a roaring economy in the wake of President Trump’s 2017 tax cuts.  Workers got ahead as household incomes increased and every demographic benefitted from a strong labor market.  The unemployment rate plummeted to the lowest levels in 50 years and the largest wage increases were seen by the lowest-earning workers.  Business investment increased productivity and innovation, bringing companies back home and making the U.S. economy the envy of the world.
    “Extending this current, proven tax policy–and building upon it–is the best way to restore economic prosperity and opportunity for Idaho’s hardworking families, many still struggling to recover from the historic inflation of the last four years.
    “Failure to extend the Trump tax cuts is simply not an option.  I am committed to working with the Administration and congressional leadership to make these tax cuts permanent and provide relief and certainty to families and businesses across America.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Massachusetts Congressional Delegation, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu Highlight Impact of Trump’s Harmful Actions on Massachusetts Working Families and Communities

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Members of the Massachusetts Congressional Delegation and their State of the Union Guests Address the Impacts of the Trump Administration on the Commonwealth

    Washington (March 4, 2025) – Members of the Massachusetts congressional delegation, including Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (MA-05), and Representatives Richard Neal (MA-01), Jim McGovern (MA-02), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), and Stephen Lynch (MA-08), today hosted a press conference with Mayor of Boston Michelle Wu, and Massachusetts community leaders to emphasize the substantial impacts of the Trump administration’s dangerous policies on working families and communities across the Commonwealth. Ahead of the State of the Union Address, the Massachusetts leaders, along with their guests, addressed the current and future impacts of President Trump’s agenda on the economy, health care, environmental protections, education, and immigration. A link to the full press conference can be found HERE.

    “Today, we stood up to say: you cannot bully the Bay State. Two hundred and fifty years ago, it was Massachusetts and Boston who threw off the dictates of a king who harassed and oppressed our residents. We will do it again with this wannabe king,” said Senator Markey. “Trump’s vision is in the rearview mirror, zeroing in on cuts to Medicaid, SNAP, clean air and clean water, health care, education, veterans’ benefits, Social Security, Alzheimer’s research and so much more – all to pay for tax breaks for Elon Musk and his billionaire buddies. Together, this delegation and these leaders are standing up for working families in Boston and across our Commonwealth. Together, we will not agonize – we will organize and fight back for an economy that works for everyone.”

    “Instead of lowering costs for working people, Donald Trump has spent the last six weeks creating a sandstorm of chaos and firing the federal workers who keep our country going. It’s all to distract us from his real agenda: tax handouts for billionaires, paid for on the backs of working people. I’m here to fight back,” said Senator Warren.

    “Elon Musk makes more in a day than the NIH spends on childhood cancer research in a year, but it’s still not enough to satiate his greed” said Democratic Whip Katherine Clark. “Now, he’s ordering Republicans to defund NIH research and children’s health care — all to funnel the money into his own pockets. Those Republicans might not care about the consequences. But for families like my constituent, Sarah Wroblewski’s, everything is at stake.”

    “I am so proud of the vibrant, diverse communities that call Boston and the Massachusetts 7th home, and I am deeply grateful for my colleagues in the Congressional delegation and the partnership of my friend, Mayor Michelle Wu, whose leadership locally is a national model,” said Congresswoman Pressley. “While the Trump and Republicans use their gavel and bully pulpit to advance their cruel and callous agenda, I’ll continue standing with people like Claire Bergstresser, a remarkable advocate, and my guest to Trump’s speech this evening. Dedicated federal workers like Claire strengthen our communities and our country, and their experiences are a reminder of why we must keep pushing back on the Musk-Trump assault on our democracy.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Wanneroo backs Victoria Park’s opposition to Burswood racetrack plan

    Source: Government of Western Australia

    Out with Burswood Park, and in with the Wanneroo Raceway.

    The Victoria Park and Wanneroo Councils have teamed up to hit back at the Labor government’s election commitment to build a race track at Burswood Park.

    Wanneroo Mayor Linda Aitken has backed Victoria Park Mayor Karen Vernon’s calls to scrap a motorsport circuit at Burswood Park, calling on the State Government to save beautiful parklands by supporting upgrades to the existing Wanneroo Raceway.

    Already one of Western Australia’s premier motorsport destinations, government funding for the Council-endorsed Wanneroo Raceway Master Plan could transform the raceway into a world-class facility and tourist hotspot, with a drift track, 4WD training and mountain biking, as well as other family friendly attractions.    

    “Burswood Park is not the right location for a street circuit,” Mayor Aitken said.

    “Why destroy lakes and wetlands that are home to birds and wildlife, when we already have an established, fully functioning raceway in Neerabup?

    “Our master plan will take the Wanneroo Raceway to the next level, and it’s directly aligned with the State Government’s motorsport vision.

    “We can work together to keep Burswood Park the natural jewel of Victoria Park, all while fulfilling the State’s vision of improved tourism, economic growth and providing a legacy for motorsport enthusiasts.

    “We urge the State Government to shift gears and head towards Wanneroo Raceway – the State’s best option for motorsport, from international and national marquee events to regular state and local events.”

    Mayor Karen Vernon emphasised the importance of working to the Burswood Park 20 Year Vision, which aims to transform Burswood Park into a place of the highest quality for residents and a destination of international repute.

    “The Burswood Park 20 Year Vision does not include a motorsport street circuit,” Mayor Vernon stated. “The Town and Burswood Park Board have worked to develop a vision that prioritises green spaces and connection to the river. Introducing a motorsport circuit would be a significant departure from this vision.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Australia’s economy has turned the corner, and consumer spending was a big help

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Stephen Bartos, Professor of Economics, University of Canberra

    Australia’s economy expanded at the fastest pace in two years in the December quarter, boosted by an improvement in household spending and stronger exports.

    The Australian Bureau of Statistics’ national accounts report today said the economy grew by 0.6% in the quarter. It attributed this to “modest growth […] broadly across the economy […] supported by an increase in exports”.

    Annual gross domestic product (GDP) growth for the year to December 2024 was 1.3%. That’s not especially high in historical terms, but as good as we have seen since late 2022. The long-term average growth for the Australian economy is closer to 2.7%.

    It is one of the last pieces of major economic data before the next federal election, and will provide some comfort to the Labor government.

    The per capita recession is over

    A further encouraging sign is that GDP per head of population is no longer shrinking. It is tiny, rising a mere 0.1%, but at least is positive.

    This follows seven consecutive quarters where the per capita measure declined. Today’s report ends what some call a “per capita recession”: when the economy grows slower than population, so in terms of production per person we actually go backwards.

    Households spent more – on furniture, appliances, clothing, hotels, cafes and restaurants, health care and electricity. Consumption grew by 0.4% – which added to economic growth.

    Households also saved more – the saving to income ratio grew from 3.6% to 3.8%, the highest in nine quarters. How were households able to save, even while they spent more? The answer is wages are growing even more strongly.

    Employee compensation increased by 2% across the board, in both the public and private sectors. The compensation figure also reflects a 0.7% increase in hours worked.

    Other contributors to positive economic growth in the quarter were government spending and exports of goods and services. Agriculture was a strong performer (up 7.3%) due to meat exports to the United States and increased grains production following favourable weather conditions.

    What GDP doesn’t measure

    Nevertheless, GDP does not capture important dimensions of wellbeing.

    It omits things we value such as unpaid work, and the natural environment. Spending on recovery from a disaster improves GDP; if disaster never happens the numbers are unaffected.

    Australian statistician David Gruen outlined the limitations of GDP in a speech he gave in 2010, while still at Treasury. Economists and statisticians alike recognise those limitations.

    Still, the alternative to GDP growth is a recession: people lose jobs and income, businesses go broke. So overall, this latest release is a positive set of numbers for Australia.

    Improving outlook

    The trajectory for economic growth is looking good.

    The December quarter was an improvement on the September quarter’s result of 0.3%, and 0.2% in the June quarter. That September quarter result turned out, as predicted,
    to be a turning point.

    We now seem to be on a pathway for continuing growth. The December quarter, remember, came before the Reserve Bank cut interest rates in February. Falling interest rates will benefit not only mortgage holders but also business borrowers.

    Inflation has fallen to a level that gives optimism on possible future interest rate cuts.

    Nevertheless, although the rate of inflation is falling, this does not mean prices are coming down. They are merely rising more slowly than before. The inflation number is also an average. Some goods or services have higher than average price rises, others lower. People tend to pay attention to the prices that rise, not those that stay the same or decline.

    In short, these numbers may not make too much of a difference to the government’s election prospects. People will still be worried about the cost of living.

    International events beyond our control

    If voters pay attention to international politics, they also know our current economic sunshine might not last.

    US President Donald Trump has imposed 25% tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports, and doubled the tariff on Chinese imports from 10% to 20%. The affected countries are talking about retaliation.

    Even if the US does not impose tariffs on Australian products (which remains a possibility, but Australian diplomats are lobbying hard to head it off), there is an impact from the US tariffs on China.

    We rely on China as our major trading partner. If its economy slows, so will ours. China has responded to the threat of tariffs today with a fresh stimulus package.

    Even more worrying is if the trade wars spread to other countries. Protectionism and insularity harms economies. Spread widely it can lead to a global recession.

    Even though the December quarter national accounts show good signs of economic recovery and bode well for the future, international events beyond Australia’s control might yet derail our positive prospects.

    Stephen Bartos 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. Australia’s economy has turned the corner, and consumer spending was a big help – https://theconversation.com/australias-economy-has-turned-the-corner-and-consumer-spending-was-a-big-help-251262

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Brisbane on alert: these maps show the suburbs most likely to flood during Cyclone Alfred

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Matt Garrow, Editorial Web Developer

    Tropical Cyclone Alfred is forecast to strike densely populated areas of southeast Queensland and northeast New South Wales. Brisbane, home to more than 2.5 million people, is among the places in the storm’s path.

    Brisbane City Council says almost 20,000 properties in the Queensland capital could be affected by storm surge or flooding. Residents have been urged to consider relocating ahead of the cyclone’s arrival.

    Peak flooding and storm surges are expected from Thursday. The cyclone is expected to cross the coast early on Friday morning.

    The warning is based on new modelling produced by the council, based on the latest Bureau of Meteorology forecasts. Affected properties could experience damage ranging from mild inundation in yards to significant flooding inside homes.

    The council says impacts may extend beyond those areas highlighted in the modelling. Suburbs identified as most at risk include Nudgee Beach, Brighton, Windsor, Ashgrove, Morningside and Rocklea.

    The maps below show the predicted flood extent based on advice issued by the bureau.

    For cyclone preparedness and safety advice, go to Get Ready Queensland. For emergency assistance call the State Emergency Service (SES) in NSW or Queensland on 132 500.

    This new article in The Conversation also outlines how to prepare for the cyclone, including what to pack, how to soothe children and how to protect your home.



    Read more:
    Cyclone Alfred is bearing down. Here’s how it grew so fierce – and where it’s expected to hit



    Read more:
    ‘Don’t panic, do prepare’: why it’s not too late to plan for Cyclone Alfred

    – ref. Brisbane on alert: these maps show the suburbs most likely to flood during Cyclone Alfred – https://theconversation.com/brisbane-on-alert-these-maps-show-the-suburbs-most-likely-to-flood-during-cyclone-alfred-251478

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Honors Jocelyn Nungaray

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    HONORING A GREAT AMERICAN: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order renaming the Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge the “Jocelyn Nungaray National Refuge” to forever commemorate the life of twelve-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray, who was tragically killed on June 17, 2024.
    Jocelyn Nungaray was brutally murdered in Houston, Texas, and two Venezuelan illegal aliens—both reputedly Tren de Aragua gang members—have been charged with this heinous crime.
    These two men, caught near the border in early 2024, were released into the United States due to the Biden Administration’s immigration policies. Only weeks later, they are alleged to have ended Jocelyn’s life in a senseless act of violence.

    The Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge will bear her name as a lasting tribute to her love of animals and passion for finding them homes. 
    THE TRAGIC CONSEQUENCES OF BIDEN’S BORDER CRISIS: The prior administration’s approach to immigration left the nation vulnerable to criminal activity and chaos.
    While Biden was president, the southern border was overrun by cartels, criminal gangs, suspected terrorists, human traffickers, smugglers, and illicit narcotics.
    The Biden Administration’s lenient border policies allowed thousands of illegal aliens to enter the United States daily.
    The Biden Administration admitted that 40% of its catch-and-release migrants totally disappeared.
    Innocent American lives have been taken due to this migrant invasion, with victims like Laken Riley, Jocelyn Nungaray, and Rachel Morin tragically losing their lives because of crimes committed by illegal aliens.
    At one point in 2024, illegal aliens made up 75% of arrests in Midtown Manhattan for crimes like assault, robbery, and domestic violence.
    SEALING THE BORDER: On Day One, President Trump secured the border and launched a comprehensive strategy to restore safety and sovereignty to the United States.
    Apprehensions at the southern border are now at a record low, down 94% from a year ago.
    Would-be illegal border crossers have reportedly “given up” and are returning to their own countries as ICE arrests of illegal immigrants have surged 627%.
    Mexican cartel operatives say they are “genuinely” fearful “for the first time in years” amid the Trump Administration’s crackdown.
    Since returning to office, President Trump has:
    Declared a national emergency at the southern border.
    Deployed additional personnel to the border, including members of the Armed Forces and the National Guard.
    Restarted border wall construction.
    Designated international cartels and other criminal organizations—such as MS-13 and Tren de Aragua—as Foreign Terrorist Organizations and Specially Designated Global Terrorists.
    Suspended the entry of aliens into the U.S.
    Called for enhanced vetting and screening of aliens.
    Required the identification of countries that warrant a partial or full suspension on the admission of nationals.
    Restarted the detention and removal of aliens who are in violation of Federal law.
    Directed the Administration to resume the Migrant Protection Protocols—also known as “Remain in Mexico”—as soon as practicable.
    Ended the use of the CBP One app.
    Terminated all categorical parole programs, such as the “Processes for Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans,” that are contrary to President Trump’s immigration agenda.
    Ended automatic citizenship for children of illegal aliens.
    Paused the operation of the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP).
    Ended catch-and-release policies.
    Revoked the Biden Administration’s disastrous executive actions that essentially opened our southern border.
    Detained the most dangerous illegal criminal aliens in Guantanamo Bay. 
    Ended the taxpayer subsidization of illegal immigration.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Safe for autocracy: the world according to Putin and Trump

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Matthew Sussex, Associate Professor (Adj), Griffith Asia Institute; and Fellow, Strategic and Defence Studies Centre, Australian National University

    What does an ideal world look like for Russian President Vladimir Putin and his US counterpart Donald Trump? In a word: ugly.

    Trump’s embrace of Russia’s dictator, his bullying of a weakened Ukraine, his musings about new US territorial conquests, and his dismantling of US democratic institutions would, in any other age, have resulted in his immediate removal from office.

    And yet he has succeeded in beating his political opponents into submission, while his cultish following applauds every fresh outrage he visits on America’s friends, and every undeserved boon he grants its enemies.

    American interests?

    When discussing foreign policy, we typically use the term “national interests” to frame our understanding of what countries want, and the enablers and constraints that affect their chances of achieving it. Essentially, we to try to identify some parameters about what countries can, can’t, and might do.

    It assumes that factors such as economic heft, military capability, natural resources, alliance networks and geopolitical position all create a kind of baseline unique to each nation. It also assumes a fair amount of continuity in foreign policy, as new governments invariably face the same kinds of challenges and opportunities as past ones.

    And crucially, it assumes leaders will recognise it: that in democracies, for instance, elected public servants will continue acting in the broader public good.

    Not so for Trump. His behaviour is far more reminiscent of Putin’s. Like the Russian autocrat he idolises, Trump’s main domestic and foreign agendas revolve around his personal fortune, cementing his political power, and creating a narrative that existential forces – as well as internal enemies – are to blame for America’s problems.

    By presenting himself as the nation’s only possible saviour, Trump is directly plagiarising the Putin playbook.

    Like Russia’s tsar in all but name, Trump is creating an image of the state in which regime security and national security are innately linked. In that way, America First and Trump First are not just compatible, but actually synonymous.

    Trajectories of power

    Where the two differ, though, is that Putin’s recipe for dominating Russian politics has tended to increase his country’s raw national power, rather than diminishing it.

    Certainly, Putin’s renationalisation of Russia’s energy sector helped turn Russia into a petro-giant. That Putin has remained at the top of Russian politics for so long has been at least partly because he has distributed Russian wealth beyond a clique of oligarchs.

    The result was a larger middle class, apathetic to politics and tolerant of dictatorship, as long as living standards were improving.

    At the same time, Putin’s erosion of freedoms created powerful disincentives to express any opposition to his regime. After all, when criticising Russia’s “special military operation” in Ukraine can lead to beatings, ostracism from society, being sent to the front, or a prison sentence of up to 15 years, where’s the value in speaking out?

    There are plenty of signs that Trump would like to emulate Putin’s progress. From installing loyalists in the military and the ostensibly independent Department of Justice and FBI, coupled with threats against freedom of the press, his subversion of US democracy looks eerily familiar.

    But Trump’s recipe for success looks almost certain to weaken the US, not strengthen it.

    He has surrounded himself with completely unqualified supplicants in key roles, chosen on the basis of loyalty rather than competence.

    Purges at the CIA are weakening America’s vaunted intelligence-gathering capabilities. Orders to stop cyber operations against Russia are an extraordinary own-goal.

    Trump’s punishment of partners via tariffs – along with continued suggestions about annexing Canada, and his belittling of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau by calling him “governor” – are costing America friendships built on decades of trust.

    These schisms are becoming evident across the Atlantic too. In France, for instance, even the far-right nationalist Marine Le Pen has criticised Trump’s standover tactics in suspending military aid to Ukraine. A recent French poll found that fully 73% of respondents believed Trump’s US was no longer an ally.

    A new age of empires

    The recent – and historically breathtaking – statement by Putin’s press secretary, Dmitry Peskov, that Russian and US worldviews now largely align speaks volumes about the kind of world both regimes now agree on.

    It is, put simply, a new Age of Empires. This has long been a central theme of Russian geopolitical propaganda: that all major decisions affecting the world should be taken in only three of its capitals: Moscow, Beijing and Washington.

    In this brutal order, the strong do as they will, and the weak do as they must. It envisages a world cleaved into spheres of influence, with Russia permitted to run rampant over Eastern Europe, the US dominating the Americas and the East Pacific, and China as a hybrid maritime and continental power exerting hegemony in Asia.

    So how worried should we be? When we think of past global dangers, events such as the Cuban Missile Crisis come to mind. This is, of course, not the same: there isn’t the potential imminence of nuclear war.

    But there should nonetheless be not just deep concern but also immediate action to inoculate ourselves, as best we can, from the slow-burn effect of a world made safe for autocracy rather than democracy.

    There is also a legitimate counterargument that Trump’s bark is worse than his bite; that he will be a lame duck after the mid-term elections in 2026; and that all US allies need do is to keep a low profile until then.

    That may have been an appropriately soothing sentiment during Trump’s first term, but in his second one it rings increasingly hollow.

    For one thing, the goalposts have shifted. Trump has shown he will act with near-total impunity. He will doubtless try to manipulate elections, and he has shown before that he is perfectly prepared to reject their outcomes. For another, this time he will have not just a pliant legislature and cabinet, but also a loyal bureaucracy, and key supporters in law enforcement and military posts.

    Given that, it is one thing to hope for the best. But it makes sense also to plan for the worst. If the past few weeks have taught us anything, it is to be prepared for virtually daily episodes of disappointment. Or, to put it bluntly: things will get worse before they get better.

    Matthew Sussex has received funding from the Australian Research Council, the Atlantic Council, the Fulbright Foundation, the Carnegie Foundation, the Lowy Institute and various Australian government departments and agencies.

    – ref. Safe for autocracy: the world according to Putin and Trump – https://theconversation.com/safe-for-autocracy-the-world-according-to-putin-and-trump-251246

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump is the kinglike president many feared when arguing over the US Constitution in 1789 – and his address to Congress showed it

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Maurizio Valsania, Professor of American History, Università di Torino

    President Donald Trump addresses a joint session of Congress at the U.S. Capitol on March 4, 2025. Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

    If there are any limits to a president’s power, it wasn’t evident from Donald Trump’s speech before a joint session of Congress on March 4, 2025.

    In that speech, the first before lawmakers of Trump’s second term, the president declared vast accomplishments during the brief six weeks of his presidency. He claimed to have “brought back free speech” to the country. He declared that there were only two sexes, “male and female.” He reminded the audience that he had unilaterally renamed an international body of water as well as the country’s tallest mountain.

    “Our country is on the verge of a comeback the likes of which the world has never witnessed, and perhaps will never witness again,” Trump asserted.

    The extravagant claims appear to match Trump’s view of the presidency – one virtually kinglike in its unilateral power.

    It’s true that the U.S. Constitution’s crucial section about the executive branch, Article 2, does not grant the president unlimited power. But it does make this figure the sole “Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy of the United States, and of the Militia of the several States.”

    This monopoly on the use of force is one way Trump could support his 2019 claim that he can do “whatever I want as President.”

    Before Trump’s speech, protesters outside had taken issue with Trump’s wielding of such unchecked power. One protester’s sign said, “We the People don’t want false kings in our house.”

    With those words, she echoed a concern about presidential power that originated more than 200 years ago.

    Many Americans, including these protesting in Washington, D.C. on March 4, 2024, have long resisted the idea of the president as a king.
    AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana

    Remnants of the monarchy

    When the Constitution was written, many people – from those who drafted the document to those who read it – believed that endowing the president with such powers was dangerous.

    Ratified after a lot of huffing and puffing, on May 29, 1790, by rather nervous citizens, the text of the Constitution had stirred many controversies.

    It wasn’t just the oftentimes vague language, which includes head-scratchers such as the very preamble, “We the People of the United States.” Nor was the discomfort due solely to the document’s jarring brevity – at 4,543 words, the U.S. Constitution is the shortest written Constitution of any major nation in the world.

    No, what made that document especially problematic, to borrow from John Adams, was that it provided for “a monarchical Republick, or if you will a limited Monarchy.”

    Adams would eventually become the nation’s second president in 1797. Even though he was a staunch supporter of the Constitution, he was honest enough to take a hard look over the political layout of the new nation. And what he found were remnants of the British monarchy and traces of a king whose unchecked abuses had led the Colonists to demand their independence in the first place.

    “The Name of President,” Adams couldn’t help concluding in a letter to prominent Massachusetts lawyer William Tudor, “does not alter the Nature of his office nor diminish the Regal Authorities and Powers which appear clearly in the Writing.”

    John Adams, left, one of four founders pictured here, was concerned that the Constitution gave the president ‘Regal Authorities and Powers.’
    Stock Montage/Archive photos, Getty Images

    While Adams was only somewhat uncomfortable, as a historian of the early republic I can stress that other observers at the time were downright appalled.

    In a 1787 article published in the Philadelphia Independent Gazetteer, “An Old Whig” – identity unknown – wrote, “The office of President of the United States appears to me to be clothed with such powers as are dangerous.”

    As the commander in chief of the Army, the American president “is in reality to be a king as much a King as the King of Great Britain, and a King too of the worst kind – an elective King.”

    Consequently, as the author of this article resolved, “I shall despair of any happiness in the United States” until this office is “reduced to a lower pitch of power.”

    ‘Subjects of a military king’

    Concern over a commander in chief declaring martial law, no matter the legality of the measure, was similarly on the minds of the Americans who had read the Constitution.

    In 1788, a patriot who went under the pseudonym of “Philadelphiensis” – real name, Benjamin Workman – issued a sweeping warning. Should the president decide to impose martial law, “your character of free citizens” would be “changed to that of the subjects of a military king.”

    A president turned military king could “wantonly inflict the most disgraceful punishment on a peaceable citizen,” the piece continued, “under pretence of disobedience, or the smallest neglect of militia duty.”

    George Mason worried that giving the president pardon power would mean pardons granted to ‘prevent a discovery of his own guilt.’
    New York Public Library, Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images

    Another power given to the president was also universally considered extremely dangerous: that of granting pardons to individuals guilty of treason.

    Maryland Attorney General Luther Martin reasoned that the treason most likely to take place was “that in which the president himself might be engaged.” What the president would do, Martin wrote, would be “to secure from punishment the creatures of his ambition, the associates and abettors of his treasonable practices, by granting them pardons.”

    George Mason, who participated in the Constitutional Convention and also drafted Virginia’s state Constitution, foresaw a gloomy scenario. He shivered at the idea of a president who would “screen from punishment those whom he had secretly instigated to commit the crime, and thereby prevent a discovery of his own guilt.”

    Choosing ‘villains or fools’

    The framers did limit executive power in one significant way: The president of the United States is subject to impeachment and, upon conviction of treason or other high crimes, removal from office.

    But in the meantime, the president may enact irreparable damage.

    The Constitution was finally ratified – but only begrudgingly by the American citizens, who feared a president’s abuse of power. More persuasive than the legal restraints placed on the office, the belief that the people would choose their leader wisely tipped the scale toward approval.

    Delegate John Dickinson asked a rhetorical question: “Will a virtuous and sensible people chuse villains or fools for their officers?”

    Also, 18th-century common sense deemed it improbable that a person without virtue and magnanimity would run for the nation’s highest office. Americans’ faith in their first president, the upstanding George Washington, helped convince them that all would end well and their Constitution would be sufficient to protect the republic.

    The Federalist Papers, the 85 essays written to persuade voters to support ratification, were suffused with this optimism.

    People “of the character marked out for that of the President of the United States” were widely available, said the Federalist #67.

    “It will not be too strong to say,” reads Federalist #68, “that there will be a constant probability of seeing the station filled by characters pre-eminent for ability and virtue.”

    In the Nov. 1, 1787, edition of The Independent Gazetteer, one reader wrote, ‘The office of President of the United States appears to me to be clothed with such powers as are dangerous.’
    ConSource

    Government of laws?

    Adams wasn’t so optimistic. He wavered. And then he flipped the issue on its head.

    “There must be a positive Passion for the public good … established in the Minds of the People,” he had written in a 1776 letter, “or there can be no Republican Government, nor any real liberty.”

    After almost 250 years of uninterrupted republican life, Americans are used to thinking that their nation is secured by checks and balances. As Adams kept repeating, America aims at becoming “a government of laws, and not of men.”

    Americans, in other words, have long believed it is their institutions that make the nation. But the opposite is true: The people are the soul and the conscience of the republic.

    Everything, in the end, boils down to the character of these people and the control they assert over who becomes their most important leader.

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

    – ref. Trump is the kinglike president many feared when arguing over the US Constitution in 1789 – and his address to Congress showed it – https://theconversation.com/trump-is-the-kinglike-president-many-feared-when-arguing-over-the-us-constitution-in-1789-and-his-address-to-congress-showed-it-251294

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –