Category: India

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Highlights of Telecom Subscription Data as on 31st March, 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 MAY 2025 4:41PM by PIB Delhi

    Particulars

    Wireless

    Wireline

    Total

    (Wireless+

    Wireline)

    Broadband Subscribers (Million)

    902.74*

    41.39

    944.12

    Urban Telephone Subscribers (Million)

    632.57*

    33.54

    666.11

        Net Addition in March, 2025 (Million)

    -1.64

    -0.39

    -2.03

         Monthly Growth Rate

    -0.26%

    -1.15%

    -0.30%

    Rural Telephone Subscribers (Million)

    531.18*

    3.50

    534.69

        Net Addition in March, 2025 (Million)

    4.86

    0.52

    5.38

         Monthly Growth Rate

    0.92%

    17.59%

    1.02%

    Total Telephone Subscribers (Million)

    1163.76*

    37.04

    1200.80

       Net Addition in March, 2025 (Million)

    3.21

    0.13

    3.35

         Monthly Growth Rate

    0.28%

    0.37%

    0.28%

    Overall Tele-density@(%)

    82.42%

    2.62%

    85.04%

         Urban Tele-density@(%)

    124.83%

    6.62%

    131.45%

         Rural Tele-density@(%)

    58.67%

    0.39%

    59.06%

    Share of Urban Subscribers

    54.36%

    90.55%

    55.47%

    Share of Rural Subscribers

    45.64%

    9.45%

    44.53%

     

    • In the month of March 2025, 13.54 million subscribers submitted their requests for Mobile Number Portability (MNP). With this, the cumulative MNP requests increased from 1105.39 million at the end of February-25 to 1118.94 million at the end of March-25, since implementation of MNP.
    • Number of active wireless (Mobile) subscribers (on the date of peak VLR#) in March 2025 was 1074.21 million.

    Note:

    1. *   Wireless includes 5G FWA subscription also. 
    2. @ Based on the projection of population from the ‘Report of the Technical Group on Population Projections for India and States 2011 – 2036’.   
    3. # VLR is acronym of Visitor Location Register. The dates of peak VLR for various TSPs are different in different service areas.
    4. The information in this Press Release is based on the data provided by the Service Providers.
    1. Broadband Subscribers
    • As per the information received from 1206 operators in March 2025, in comparison to 1189 operators in February 2025, the total Broadband Subscribers increased from 944.04 million at the end of February-25 to 944.12 million at the end of March-25 with a monthly growth rate of 0.009%. Segment-wise broadband subscribers and their monthly growth rates are as below: –

    Segment–wise Broadband Subscribers and Monthly Growth Rate in the month of March, 2025

    Segment

    Subscription

    Subscribers

    (in million)

    % Change

    Feb-25

    Mar-25

    Wired subscribers

    Fixed (wired) Broadband

    (DSL, FTTx, Ethernet/LAN, Cable Modem, ILL)

    41.20

    41.39

    0.44%

    Wireless Subscribers

    Fixed Wireless Broadband

    (FWA-5G, Wi-Fi, Wi-Max, Radio, Satellite)

    4.89

    4.89

    0.16%

    Mobile Broadband

    (Handset/Dongle based)

    897.95

    897.84

    -0.01%

    Total Broadband Subscribers

    944.04

    944.12*

    0.009%

     

      * This report is prepared considering the last reported (Nov 2024) internet subscription data submitted by M/s Reliance Jio Infocom Ltd. and M/s Bharti Airtel Ltd., as they did not submit the requisite data in the prescribed format for Dec-2024 and Jan, Feb & Mar-2025.

    As on 31st March 2025, top five Broadband

    (Wired + Wireless) Service providers

    S.N.

    Name of the Service Provider

    Subscriber base

    (In million)

    1.  

    Reliance Jio Infocomm Ltd

    476.58*

    1.  

    Bharti Airtel Ltd.

    289.31*

    1.  

    Vodafone Idea Ltd.

    126.41

    1.  

    Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd.

    34.57

    1.  

    Atria Convergence Technologies Limited

    2.29

    Market Share of Top Five Broadband (Wired+Wireless)

    98.41%

    *As per reported data of Nov-24

    • The graphical representation of the service provider-wise market share of broadband services is given below: –

    Service Provider-wise Market Share of Broadband

    (wired + wireless) Services as on 31st March, 2025

    As on 31st March, 2025, Top Five Fixed (Wired) Broadband Service providers

    S.N.

    Name of the Service Provider

    Subscriber base

    (In million)

    1.  

    Reliance Jio Infocomm Ltd

    11.48*

    1.  

    Bharti Airtel Ltd

    8.55*

    1.  

    Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd

    4.34

    1.  

    Atria Convergence Technologies Limited

    2.29

    1.  

    Kerala Vision Broadband Ltd

    1.31

    Market Share of Top Five Fixed (Wired) Broadband Service Providers

    67.57%

    *As per reported data of Nov-24

    As on 31st March, 2025, top five Wireless (Fixed wireless & mobile) Broadband Service providers

    S.N.

    Name of the Service Provider

    Subscriber base

    (In million)

    1.  

    Reliance Jio Infocomm Ltd

    465.10*

    1.  

    Bharti Airtel Ltd

    280.76*

    1.  

    Vodafone Idea Ltd

    126.40

    1.  

    Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd

    30.23

    1.  

    IBus Virtual Network Services Private Limited

    0.09

    Market Share of Top Five Wireless Broadband Service Providers

    99.98%

    *As per reported data of Nov-24

    1. Wireline Subscribers
    • Wireline subscribers increased from 36.91 million at the end of February-25 to 37.04 million at the end of March-25. Net increase in the wireline subscriber base was 0.13 million with a monthly rate of growth 0.37%.
    • The Overall wireline Tele-density in India remained same i.e. 2.62% at the end of March-25 which was at the of February-25. Urban and Rural Wireline Tele-density were 6.62% and 0.39%, respectively, during the same period.  The share of urban and rural subscribers in total wireline subscribers were 90.55% and 9.45% respectively at the end of March, 2025.
    • BSNL, MTNL, and APSFL, the three PSUs access service providers, held 27.87% of the wireline market share as on 31st March 2025. Detailed statistics of the Wireline subscriber base are available at Annexure-I.

     

    Access Service Provider-wise Market Share of wireline Subscribers

    as on 31st March, 2025

    Access Service Provider-wise Net Addition/Decline in wireline Subscribers during the month of March, 2025

    1. Wireless (Mobile+5G FWA) Subscribers

     

    • Total wireless (mobile+5G-FWA) subscribers increased from 1,160.33 million at the end of February-25 to 1,163.76 million at the end of March-25, thereby registering a monthly growth rate of 0.28%. Total Wireless subscription in urban areas decreased from 634 million on February-25 to 632.57 million on March-25 and the subscription in rural areas also increased from 526.33 million to 531.18 million during the same period. The monthly growth rate of urban and rural wireless subscriptions was  -0.26% and 0.92%, respectively.
    • The Wireless Tele-density in India increased from 82.23% at the end of Feb-25 to 82.42% at the end of Mar-25. The Urban Wireless Tele-density decreased from 125.30% at the end of Feb-25 to 124.83% at the end of Mar-25 however, the Rural Tele-density increased from 58.16% to 58.67% during the same period. The share of urban and rural wireless subscribers in the total number of wireless subscribers was 54.36% and 45.64%, respectively, at the end of March-25.
    • The details of Wireless (mobile) and Wireless (5G FWA) subscribers are detailed below: –

     

    (A) Wireless (Mobile) subscriber

     

    • Total wireless (Mobile) subscribers increased from 1,154.05 million at the end of Feb-25 to 1,156.99 million at the end of Mar-25, thereby registering a monthly growth rate of 0.25%. Wireless (Mobile) subscription in urban areas increased from 627.94 million at the end of Feb-25 to 628.31 million at the end of Mar-25 and wireless (Mobile) subscription in rural areas also increased from 526.11 million to 528.68 million during the same period. Monthly growth rate of urban and rural wireless (Mobile) subscription was 0.06% and 0.49% respectively.

             

    • The Wireless (Mobile) Tele-density in India increased from 81.79% at the end of Feb-25 to 81.94% at the end of Mar-25. The Urban Wireless Tele-density decreased from 124.10% at the end of Feb-25 to 123.99% at the end of Mar-25 however Rural Tele-density increased from 58.13% to 58.40% during the same period. The share of urban and rural wireless (Mobile) subscribers in total number of wireless (Mobile) subscribers was 54.31% and 45.69% respectively at the end of March 2025. Detailed statistics of wireless (Mobile) subscriber base is available at Annexure-II.

    •      As on 31st March 2025, the private access service providers held 92.04% market share of the wireless (Mobile) subscribers, whereas BSNL and MTNL, the two PSU access service providers, had a market share of only 7.96%.

    • The graphical representation of access service provider-wise market share and net additions in wireless (Mobile) subscriber base are given below: –

    Access Service Provider-wise Market Shares in term of Wireless (Mobile) Subscribers as on 31st March, 2025

    Net Addition/ Decline in Wireless (Mobile) Subscribers of Access Service Providers in the month of March, 2025

    Growth in Wireless (Mobile) Subscribers

    Major Access Service Provider-wise Monthly Growth/ Decline Rate of Wireless Subscribers in the month of March, 2025

     

    Service Area-wise Monthly Growth/ Decline Rate of Wireless (Mobile) Subscribers in the month of March, 2025

    • Except Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Kolkata all other service areas have showed growth in their wireless (Mobile) subscribers during the month of March-25.

     (B) Wireless (5G FWA) subscribers

     

    • Total wireless (5G FWA) subscribers increased from 6.27 million at the end of February-25 to 6.77 million at the end of March-25 with subscriptions in urban and rural areas of 4.26 million and 2.51 million, respectively

     

    • The share of urban and rural wireless (5G FWA) subscribers in the total number of wireless (5G FWA) subscribers was 62.97% and 37.03%, respectively at the end of March, 2025. Detailed statistics of the wireless (5G FWA) subscriber base is available at Annexure-V
    1. M2M cellular mobile connections

                              Number of M2M cellular mobile connections increased from 64.71 million at the end of February-25 to 66.54 million at the end of March-25.

     

         Bharti Airtel Limited has the highest number of M2M cellular mobile connections 34.82 million with a market share of 52.32% followed by Vodafone idea Limited, Reliance Jio Infocom Limited and BSNL with market share of 24.39%, 18.25% and 5.04% respectively.

    1.  Total Telephone Subscribers
    • The number of total telephone subscribers in India increased from 1,197.23 million at the end of Feb-25 to 1,200.80 million at the end of Mar-25, thereby showing a monthly growth rate of 0.28%. Urban telephone subscription decreased from 667.93 million at the end of Feb-25 to 666.11 million at the end of Mar-25 however the rural subscription increased from 529.31 million to 534.69 million during the same period. The monthly growth rates of urban and rural telephone subscription were -0.30% and   1.02% respectively during the month of March, 2025.  
    • The overall Tele-density in India increased from 84.85% at the end of Feb-25 to 85.04% at the end of Mar-25. The Urban Tele-density decreased from 132.01% at the end of Feb-25 to 131.45% at the end of Mar-25 however Rural Tele-density increased from 58.48% to 59.06% during the same period. The share of urban and rural subscribers in total number of telephone subscribers at the end of March-25 were 55.47% and 44.53% respectively.

    Overall Tele-density (LSA Wise) – As on 31st March, 2025

    • As may be seen in the above chart, eight LSA have less tele-density than the all-India average tele-density at the end of March-25. Delhi service area has maximum tele-density of 275.79% and the Bihar service area has minimum tele-density of 57.23% at the end of March-25.

    Notes: –

    1. Population data/projections are available state wise only.
    2. Tele-density figures are derived from the telephone subscriber data provided by the access service providers and the projection of population from the “Report of the Technical Group on Population Projections for India and States 2011 – 2036.
    3. Telephone subscriber data for Delhi, includes, apart from the data for the State of Delhi, wireless subscriber data for the areas served by the local exchanges of Ghaziabad & Noida (in Uttar Pradesh) and Gurgaon & Faridabad (in Haryana).
    4. Data/information for West Bengal includes Kolkata, Maharashtra includes Mumbai and Uttar Pradesh includes UPE & UPW service area(s).
    5. Data/information for Andhra Pradesh includes Telengana, Madhya Pradesh includes Chhatishgarh, Bihar includes Jharkhand, Maharashtra includes Goa, Uttar Pradesh includes Uttarakhand, West Bengal includes Sikkim and North-East includes Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland & Tripura States.

     

    1. Category-wise Growth in subscriber base

    Circle Category-wise Net Additions in Telephone Subscribers in the month March, 2025          

    Circle

    Category

    Net additions in the month of March, 2025

    Telephone Subscriber base as on 31st March, 2025

    Wireline segment

    Wireless* segment

    Wireline segment

    Wireless* segment

    Circle A

    61442

    161244

    14568246

    386538167

    Circle B

    63707

    1110993

    10199907

    471472982

    Circle C

    17156

    1470149

    2946671

    192267604

    Metro

    -7369

    469123

    9325910

    113476417

    All India

    134936

    3211509

    37040734

    1163755170

              *Wireless includes 5G FWA subscription also

    Circle Category-wise monthly and yearly Growth Rates in Telephone Subscribers in the month of March, 2025

    Circle Category

    Monthly growth rate (%)

    (February-25 to March-25)

    Yearly growth rate (%)

    (March-24 to March-25)

    Wireline Segment

    Wireless* Segment

    Wireline Segment

    Wireless* Segment

    Circle A

    0.42%

    0.04%

    10.69%

    -0.48%

    Circle B

    0.63%

    0.24%

    13.09%

    -0.41%

    Circle C

    0.59%

    0.77%

    11.88%

    1.74%

    Metro

    -0.08%

    0.42%

    3.88%

    -1.09%

    All India

    0.37%

    0.28%

    9.62%

    -0.15%

    *Wireless includes 5G FWA subscription also

    Note:  Circle Category-Metro includes Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata. Data for Chennai has been included in Circle Category-A, as part of TamilNadu.

     

    • As can be seen in the above tables, in the wireless segment, during the month of March 2025, on monthly basis, all circles have registered  growth rate in their subscriber base. On a yearly basis, except Circle ‘C’, all other circles have registered a decline in their subscriber base.
    •  In the Wireline segment, during the month of March 2025, on monthly basis, except Circle ‘Metro’, all other circles have registered growth in their subscriber base. On yearly basis, all circles have registered growth in their subscriber.
    1.  Active Wireless (Mobile) Subscribers (VLR Data)
    • Out of the total 1156.99 million wireless subscribers, 1074.21 million wireless subscribers were active on the date of peak VLR in the month of March-25. The proportion of active wireless subscribers was approximately 92.85% of the total wireless subscriber base.
    • The detailed statistics on proportion of active wireless subscribers (also referred to as VLR subscribers) on the date of peak VLR in the month of March-25 is available at Annexure-III and the methodology used for reporting VLR subscribers is available at Annexure-IV.

    Access Service Provider-wise Percentage of VLR Subscribers

    in the month of March, 2025 

    • Reliance Communication has the maximum proportion 100% of its active wireless subscribers (VLR) as against its total wireless subscribers (HLR) on the date of peak VLR in the month of March-25 and MTNL has the minimum proportion of VLR 48.07% of its HLR during the same period.

    Service Area wise percentage of VLR Subscribers

    in the month of March, 2025

    1. Mobile Number Portability (MNP)
    • Intra-service area Mobile number portability (MNP) was implemented first in Haryana service area w.e.f. 25.11.2010 and in the rest of the country w.e.f. 20.01.2011. Inter-Service Area MNP has been implemented in the country w.e.f. 03.07.2015. Now, the wireless telephone subscribers can retain their mobile numbers when they relocate from one service area to another.
    • During the month of March-25, a total of 13.54 million requests were received for MNP.  Out of total 13.54 million, new requests received from Zone-I & Zone-II were 7.51 million and 6.03 million respectively. The cumulative MNP requests increased from 1105.39 million at the end of February-25 to 1118.94 million at the end of March-25, since the implementation of MNP. 
    • In MNP Zone-I (Northern and Western India), the highest number of requests till date have been received in Uttar Pradesh-East (about 111.89 million) followed by Maharashtra (about 90.87 million) service area.
    • In MNP Zone-II (Southern and Eastern India), the highest number of requests till date have been received in Madhya Pradesh (about 88.41 million) followed by Karnataka (about 73.53 million).

    Service Area Wise MNP Status

    Zone-I

    Zone–II

    Service Area

    Number of Porting Requests (in Million)

    Service Area

    Number of Porting Requests

    (in Million)

    Feb-25

    Mar-25

    Feb-25

    Mar-25

    Delhi

    52.65

    53.25

    Andhra Pradesh

    72.06

    72.69

    Gujarat

    75.20

    76.11

    Assam

    8.09

    8.20

    Haryana

    34.79

    35.19

    Bihar

    63.84

    64.93

    Himachal Pradesh

    4.64

    4.68

    Karnataka

    72.96

    73.53

    Jammu & Kashmir

    3.17

    3.23

    Kerala

    26.11

    26.34

    Maharashtra

    89.94

    90.87

    Kolkata

    20.00

    20.17

    Mumbai

    35.98

    36.23

    Madhya Pradesh

    87.16

    88.41

    Punjab

    36.01

    36.37

    North East

    2.52

    2.55

    Rajasthan

    73.85

    74.56

    Odisha

    19.26

    19.48

    U.P.(East)

    110.02

    111.89

    Tamil Nadu

    68.67

    69.33

    U.P.(West)

    82.68

    84.03

    West Bengal

    65.79

    66.88

    Total

    598.92

    606.43

    Total

    506.48

    512.51

    Total (Zone-I + Zone-II)

     

     

    1,105.39

    1,118.94

    Net Addition (March, 2025)

                                              13.54 million

     

    Contact details in case of any clarification: –

    Shri Vijay Kumar, Advisor (F&EA),

    Telecom Regulatory Authority of India                                                                 

    World Trade Centre, Tower-F,

    Nauroji Nagar, New Delhi – 110029

    Ph: 011-20907773                                                                       (D. Manoj)

    E-mail: advfea1@trai.gov.in                                                  Pr. Advisor (F&EA)

     

                            Note: Peak VLR figures in some circles of some of the service providers are more than their HLR  figures due to a large number of inroamers. 

    Annexure IV

    VLR Subscribers in the Wireless Segment

     

    Home Location Register (HLR) is a central database that contains details of each mobile phone subscriber that is authorized to use the GSM core network. The HLRs store details of every SIM card issued by the service provider. Each SIM has a unique identifier called an International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI), which is the primary key to each HLR record. The HLR data is stored for as long as a subscriber remains with the service provider. HLR also manages the mobility of subscribers by means of updating their position in administrative areas. It sends the subscriber data to a Visitor Location Register (VLR).

    Subscriber numbers reported by the service providers is the difference between the numbers of IMSI registered in service provider’s HLR and sum of other figures as given below: –

     

    1

    Total IMSI’s in HLR (A)

    2

    Less: (B = a + b + c + d + e)

    a.

    Test/Service Cards

    b.

    Employees

    c.

    Stock in hand/in Distribution Channels (Active Card)

    d.

    Subscriber Retention period expired

    e.

    Service suspended pending disconnection

    3

    Subscribers Base (A-B)

    Visitor Location Register (VLR) is a temporary database of the subscribers who have roamed into the particular area, which it serves. Each base station in the network is served by exactly one VLR; hence a subscriber cannot be present in more than one VLR at a time.

    If subscriber is in active stage i.e. he is able to send/receive calls/SMSs he is available both in HLR and VLR. However, it may be possible that the subscriber is registered in HLR but not in VLR due to the reason that he is either switched-off or moved out of coverage area, not reachable etc. In such circumstances he will be available in HLR but not in VLR. This causes difference between subscriber number reported by the service providers based on HLR and numbers available in VLR.

    The VLR subscriber data calculated here is based on active subscribers in VLR on the date of Peak subscriber number in VLR of the particular month for which the data is being collected. This data is to be taken from the switches having the purge time of not more than 72 hours.

    ***

    Samrat

    (Release ID: 2127534) Visitor Counter : 28

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Advance notification of improvement works to Grant Street, Inverness

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    The Highland Council is preparing to carry out road improvement works on Grant Street in Inverness that will include the junctions of Lower Kessock Street/PumpgateStreet and Lochalsh Road/Grant Street.  The scope of works will include improvement of the raised road surface and footway works with new kerbs and tactile paving. 

    Design Drawing – Proposed works Grant Street, Lochalsh Road & Pumpgate Street

    The anticipated start date is Monday 9 June 2025 and works are expected to last for approximately 5 weeks. 

    The works to improve the raised road surface on Grant Street will require a section of the road to be closed for 5 days between 7-11 July 2025 inclusive. The area affected is from West of Nelson Street through to Lower Kessock Street.  Diversions will be in place and will be signed. Traffic travelling from Waterloo Bridge will be diverted from Grant Street by Nelson Street and India Street to Lower Kessock Street/Thornbush Road or by Gilbert Street to Lochalsh Road. 

    Outwith the period of road closure, the works will be managed by traffic control to allow access through Grant Street.  Day-to-day traffic management will be carried out by the on-site contractor who will ensure that any disruption associated with the works is kept to a minimum.  

    Diversion Plan – closure of Grant Street 7-11 July 2025. Red and Blue lines show diversionary routes.

    7 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Interview with ABC News Breakfast

    Source: Australian Attorney General’s Agencies

    James Glenday, Host: On federal politics, Don Farrell joins us now from Parliament House. Don, good morning and welcome back to News Breakfast.

    Trade Minister, Don Farrell: Good morning, James.

    Glenday: On the final sitting day, could you have imagined returning to Canberra knowing that you’d knocked off the Liberal Party’s leader, Peter Dutton, and the leader of The Greens, Adam Bandt as well?

    Minister Farrell: Well, the truth is, James, I don’t think anybody could have predicted that. I was confident, based on the work that we’d done over the previous three years, especially in my space, of trade, that we would be returned and returned with a majority. But even I couldn’t believe the results as they came in on Saturday night. I think the Greens have suffered because so many times in the last Parliament they blocked sensible policies of the Albanese Government. They voted with the Coalition in the Senate to block, for instance, legislation on housing, sensible housing policy, and I think they’ve paid the political price for that.

    Glenday: This outcome must be deeply satisfying for you. Personally, I just wonder, have you ever felt so satisfied after an election win? Where does this rank? Is it the sweetest victory, almost a fairytale for Labor?

    Minister Farrell: Look, it doesn’t, doesn’t get any better than this, James. When you’ve been involved in politics as long as I have, this has to be the sweetest victory of all.

    Glenday: There you go. Now there’s a trade war happening. I’m not sure where you’re going to end up, but if you are reinstalled as Trade Minister, you’ll have a lot on your plate. Do you know where you’ll head?

    Minister Farrell: First of all, look, we’ve got a number of objectives that we will need to prosecute and prosecute very quickly. On election night I got messages from my European colleagues, they’re very keen to re-engage and have another crack at an EU free trade agreement. The EU has 450 million people, and a $17 trillion economy. They’ll be very important if we can get a breakthrough there. The Indians also contacted me. We were very close to a new free trade agreement with them and I think we can move very quickly now to finalise that agreement. And of course, in the next few weeks, our new free trade agreement with the United Arab Emirates, which sends all of our products into the UAE tariff free, will come into force and that will be important. And of course we, we want to continue discussions with the United States. We believe in free and fair trade and that’s the argument we’ll be prosecuting with them.

    Glenday: I think it’ll be closely watched. Do you expect to head to either China or to the States first?

    Minister Farrell: Look, we’ll worry about that after we know who the new Trade Minister is next week.

    Glenday: That’s fair.

    Minister Farrell: But we will move very quickly to ensure that Australia’s interests are protected here. China, of course, is our largest trading partner. We’re concerned about the tariff war between China and the United States. We believe in free and fair trade and we think that those tariffs should be removed on China.

    Glenday: Okay. You are a factional leader of the Labor right. You were once unkindly referred to as a faceless man. Of course you do have a face. And here you are speaking to us. What are you asking the Prime Minister for though? You’ve got a lot of influence as these Ministerial portfolios are carved up.

    Minister Farrell: A face that a mother could love. And they do call me other things too, by the way. That’s not the only thing they call me. Look, I’m not going to give the Prime Minister any advice on what he should do. He’s won a fabulous victory here. He ran a flawless campaign. His strategy throughout the whole of the last term was about getting reelected and continuing the policies that we took to the election. I’m very happy to leave it all to him and to accept whatever he might wish me to do in the new government.

    Glenday: Ok, just before I let you go, I want to get you on an international issue that’s been developing. Has the Albanese government made any contact with India or Pakistan regarding these cross border strikes we’re seeing?

    Minister Farrell: Look, that’s an issue of course, that is in the hands of our very competent and successful Foreign Minister, Penny Wong. But of course we don’t want to see any conflict in our region. We’d like to see an end to the conflict in the Middle East, the conflict in Ukraine, Russia, and we certainly don’t want to see any conflict in our own region.

    Glenday: And Don, just one last one. We saw smoke this morning from the Vatican. You went to the Pope’s funeral. I’m not sure what that was like, but do you have a personal preference of who the next Pope should be or the direction of the Catholic Church? I’m guessing this is outside the bounds of your factional influence.

    Minister Farrell: Well, as a matter of fact, James, I do have a personal favourite in the Conclave at the moment. And that is the Australian – Ukrainian Cardinal, Cardinal Bychok. I was lucky enough to meet with him twice while I was in Rome. He’s a very, very fine man. A very holy man. I’d like to see him as the next pope. My wife, on the other hand, who’s Filipino, she would like to see Cardinal Tagle as the next pope. And we also had the opportunity of meeting him at the Vatican. So, there’s a couple of candidates for you, James.

    Glenday: There you go. Well, we’ll have to wait and see if you’ve backed a winner there, Don Farrell, the Trade Minister. Perhaps the continuing Trade Minister. We’ll wait and see for that as well. Thank you so much for joining News Breakfast this morning.

    Minister Farrell: Thanks, James.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Doorstop, Canberra

    Source: Australian Attorney General’s Agencies

    Journalist: Thank you for joining us. Congratulations on Labor’s win. Firstly, it’s removed two leaders, Peter Dutton and Adam Bandt, at the last count. How are you feeling about the landslide?

    Trade Minister, Don Farrell: Well, very positive. I think it’s a very positive endorsement of Prime Minister Albanese and the flawless campaign that he ran. He had a vision for Australia. I don’t think any of the other candidates from the other parties had that vision. I think the Australian people have now overwhelmingly endorsed Anthony Albanese’s vision for the future of Australia.

    Journalist: And the Labor caucus will meet here tomorrow. Will you remain as Trade Minister?

    Minister Farrell: Look, that’s entirely in the hands of the Prime Minister. I’ll be putting myself forward this afternoon and tomorrow for the ministerial positions. What job I get in that new ministry will be entirely in the hands of the Prime Minister. Obviously, I really like the job as Trade Minister and I’d like to continue. But I’m happy to serve Prime Minister Albanese in any way he thinks I should.

    Journalist: I believe you are safe. That has been confirmed as the leadership team will stay the same. Where would your first trip be?

    Minister Farrell: Well, that’ll be up to the Prime Minister. I know he has some plans to visit some countries and I’d be very happy to go with him if he wanted me to do that. On election night, I got messages from both the Europeans and the Indians indicating that they’re very keen to continue with the discussions to get free trade agreements. Obviously, we’ve got the UAE free trade agreement coming up in a few weeks that will allow all Australian products to go into the UAE tariff-free. So, we’re in the business of supporting free and fair trade and arguing wherever we can that the best interests of Australia and the rest of the world is served by free and fair trade.

    Journalist: How are we going securing a tariff carve out with the Trump administration?

    Minister Farrell: Look, we’re continuing to prosecute that argument. Obviously, we’ve been in caretaker mode for the last five weeks, but our Ambassador, of course, Kevin Rudd, is doing a really good job in the United States prosecuting the argument on our behalf and will continue to do that.

    Journalist: And a difficult time between the United States and China, are we making any headway? How do you plan to tackle that relationship going forward?

    Minister Farrell: Our argument is very simple. The way to prosperity is through free trade. Tariffs are the wrong way to go and I think we’ll quickly see in the United States that inflation goes up, unemployment goes up and the share market goes down. None of those are good for working people. We want to prosecute the argument with the United States with China that tariffs are not the way to go and both countries should remove their tariffs. Thank you.

    Journalist: Thank you very much.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Pre-Budget speech to BusinessNZ

    Source: NZ Music Month takes to the streets

    Good afternoon everyone. 

    Today my intention is to put this year’s Budget in context. 

    First, I want to speak briefly about our economic recovery here at home, and why I remain confident despite international uncertainty. 

    Then I’m going to make the case for the two big priorities of Budget 2025, fiscal consolidation and economic growth: why they matter and some steps we’re taking to make them happen.

    It’s fair to say Budget 2025 arrives against a challenging international backdrop. 

    Trade tensions overseas have seen growth forecasts revised down across the world, as exporters and consumers come under sustained pressure. 

    The sharp deterioration of financial markets in early April have somewhat recovered in recent days and weeks, but markets remain volatile. 

    Experts offshore are leaning into the uncertainty. 

    The Bank of Canada even chose to publish two separate scenarios in their latest statement, instead of one single set of forecasts.

    I don’t blame them for having a bob each way. 

    For a small, open economy like New Zealand, the international environment clearly matters a lot, but I remain confident about our recovery. 

    Inflation remains anchored below 3 per cent, and interest rates continue to fall, supporting households with the cost of living and providing the foundation for a domestic economic recovery. 

    The Official Cash Rate has fallen considerably, from 5.5 to 3.5 per cent, with economists picking further cuts are on the way soon. 

    I acknowledge for households, interest rate relief will be a slow and steady process.  

    For example, according to the Reserve Bank, average interest rates on outstanding mortgages have only now fallen for just 4 months in a row, having previously risen for 37 months in a row. 

    The good news is that financial relief for households will keep rolling, with around $60 billion of mortgages set to roll-over in just the next three months. 

    In short, the trend is our friend, even if I know many families and businesses won’t be feeling that relief quite yet. 

    At the same time, an export-led recovery is now well underway in regional New Zealand. 

    Dairy prices are strong, despite global headwinds, supporting farmers to pay down debt and put more money back into rural communities. 

    Fruit exports are booming, hitting $5 billion in value in the 12 months to March, driven by a big jump in kiwifruit sales. 

    The tourism industry is also growing rapidly, with visitor numbers continuing to recover, now hitting 86 per cent of pre-COVID levels. 

    Total tourism expenditure was up 23 per cent in 2024.

    It’s not surprising then that the recovery is looking brighter in regional New Zealand, and the South Island in particular.     

    Just last week Westpac highlighted that in Otago, Canterbury, and Southland, consumer confidence and growth in retail activity is outpacing the rest of the country. 

    Our government is working hard to support that rural recovery. 

    A steady diet of pro-growth deregulation, a strong focus on RMA reform, and fresh efforts to break into new markets offshore are highlights of that agenda so far. 

    We know the difference quality trade agreements can make to our growth prospects. For example, in the 12 months since the EU FTA came into force, exports to the European Union grew by 25 per cent.

    For exporters, that’s worth an additional $1 billion. 

    Whether it’s CER, the CPTPP, the China, UK, or more recent UAE and GCC FTAs, our farmers and exporters are blessed by a latticework of trade agreements, negotiated successively by Ministers and diplomats over many years.

    Clearly India will be an important next step, and it was positive to see Minister of Trade Todd McClay announce on Monday that the first formal round of FTA negotiations kicked off this week. 

    That brings me to this year’s Budget.

    It won’t surprise you to learn that lifting New Zealand’s long run economic performance has been our primary focus in designing Budget 2025. 

    Yes, that has shaped decisions we have made on individual initiatives, some of which I’ll touch on shortly. 

    But our fiscal strategy, including our desire to return to surplus, and the wider impact on inflation, interest rates, and growth has also been front of mind. 

    You might have seen Nicola Willis announce last week that this year’s operating allowance would be smaller than previously signalled, at just $1.3 billion. 

    That will be the smallest operating allowance in a decade and ensures Treasury can still forecast a surplus within the next four years. 

    That was the right decision for several reasons. 

    First, it represents a fresh commitment to necessary fiscal consolidation. 

    In recent years, New Zealand has been living beyond its means and that has come at a significant cost. 

    Since 2017, net core Crown debt has risen by around $120 billion.

    Put another way, that’s $60,000 in additional debt for every household in New Zealand. 

    As a proportion of the economy, debt has ballooned from just 21.6 per cent of GDP in 2017, to around 43 per cent of GDP today, higher than it has been at any time since the 1990s. 

    At the same time, the cost of servicing our national debt has more than doubled, from $3.5 billion in 2017, to almost $9 billion today.

    In some areas, spending more is the right thing to do. 

    In health, education, law and order, defence, and transport my government is prioritising significant new investments. 

    Each of those areas are a priority for New Zealanders and they require more funding to deliver the quality services Kiwis expect. 

    But that comes with trade-offs.  

    Spending more on everything, as some commentators have called for, would mean larger deficits, more debt, and ultimately fewer choices in future budgets as the cost of servicing our debt grows even larger and the prospect of returning to surplus evaporates. 

    Managing and responding to critical risks is also more challenging with high levels of public debt. 

    New Zealand was well served in the Global Financial Crisis, following the Christchurch Earthquake, and during COVID because successive Ministers of Finance made difficult choices to ensure New Zealand had low levels of public debt. 

    Our responsibility is to do what we can to leave a similar inheritance for future administrations. 

    Second, a smaller allowance supports lower interest rates and stronger business activity. 

    Sadly, recent experiences have forced us to re-learn the fundamentals of economics, including the reality that if governments borrow and spend too much, interest rates are forced higher to compensate, putting pressure on family budgets and private sector activity. 

    The good news is that the converse is also true. 

    More restrained fiscal policy supports interest rates to remain low, enabling businesses to grow and families to get ahead under their own steam. 

    ANZ’s initial estimate last week was that the smaller operating allowance would support interest rates being 5-10 basis points lower than otherwise. 

    Meanwhile, Treasury has estimated that with a tighter budget package, interest rates would be up to 30 basis points lower by the end of the forecast period. 

    For a family with a mortgage, or a farmer or entrepreneur taking on debt to grow their business, that means real financial relief and more opportunity to get ahead. 

    Careful spending, low interest rates, and robust private sector growth sits at the very heart of our government’s economic strategy, as we create jobs, boost exports, lift incomes, and promote innovation and investment.

    Prudent fiscal management also supports our economic reputation offshore. 

    For a small-open economy like New Zealand that’s critical. 

    It means we can borrow more affordably when we have to, and guarantees that even in periods of global turmoil, we are a trusted destination for trade and investment. 

    Third, the smaller operating allowance was the right call because keeping our word matters.  

    Nicola Willis has been consistent in her commitment to deliver a path back to surplus and to maintain debt at prudent levels. 

    Conditions can and do change, but it is a credit to her that Budget 2025 demonstrates a return to surplus, despite a challenging global backdrop.  

    That’s the result you expect when you anchor Budget decisions in your fiscal strategy, instead of allowing the pressures of the day to drag you off course. 

    I know there are some commentators calling for larger allowances and more spending. 

    They need to be honest that those decisions will mean more debt, more deficits, and an indefinite delay to New Zealand’s return to surplus. 

    More debt and more deficits is a fiscal strategy – but for a small, internationally-exposed country like New Zealand, it’s also an incredibly risky one. 

    At the same time, just as grey clouds bring silver linings, even tight Budgets present opportunities. 

    In Budget 2025, we will be taking further steps in our long-term mission to lift economic growth and boost productivity.  

    Earlier this year, we published our Government’s Going for Growth Agenda, which outlines a range of actions we are taking to get the New Zealand economy moving and realising its vast potential.

    Each of those actions fits into one of five pillars we have identified as critical to lifting economic growth and improving New Zealanders’ standard of living:

    Developing talent,
    Encouraging innovation, science, and technology,
    Introducing competitive business settings,
    Promoting global trade and investment,
    And delivering infrastructure for growth.

    Each of those pillars will have strong representation in Budget 2025. 

    Today I want to touch on just a few of them – and some small steps we are taking to underpin our growth mission. 

    Encouraging science, innovation, and technology is one of those key pillars. 

    In January at my State of the Nation, I spoke briefly about our vision for the sector. 

    I want to see a much sharper focus on commercialisation, stronger ties to the business community, and rapid access to ideas and innovation from overseas. 

    Capital investment will be critical to our growth journey, but New Zealand won’t achieve a step-change in our living standards if we invest more but continue to lag behind the global technological frontier. 

    In Budget 2025, we will be allocating the funding we need to give effect to the changes I announced earlier this year, including the establishment of three new Public Research Organisations. 

    I also know that following a review of the Research and Development Tax Incentive that kicked off last year, the business community has been looking for some certainty on the future of the programme.

    That review was required in law, and the final report has not yet been tabled in Parliament. 

    However, I can confirm today that we are retaining the RDTI in this year’s Budget so businesses have the certainty they need to keep investing and keep going for growth.

    Promoting global trade and investment has also been a focus of my government in 2025, even before the recent bout of uncertainty offshore. 

    As I said earlier, part of that task has been to bring fresh energy to New Zealand’s proud history of achieving trade agreements offshore, with Minister of Trade Todd McClay finalising two new trade agreements in the Middle East, while we continue to work hard towards a trade agreement with India. 

    But promoting New Zealand as an attractive destination for investment, and a shelter from the global storm, has also been a personal focus of mine. 

    In March, the government hosted an Investment Summit here in Auckland, with attendees representing an estimated $6 trillion in capital, as we showcased opportunities to partner with the Crown, Iwi, and the private sector.

    We are seeing some real progress, including an outstanding deal worth around $1 billion signed by Waikato Tainui and Brookfield Asset Management to further develop the Ruakura Inland Port.

    But of course, I want to see more. 

    Yes, that means getting the structural settings right, including rewriting the Overseas Investment Act, so major investments from offshore are consented faster and more reliably. 

    But for small countries – who have to compete hard for share of mind and share of wallet – we also need a team of national champions constantly making the case for New Zealand as an outstanding place to do business. 

    In January, I announced that team would be led by Invest NZ, an entity specifically responsible for attracting investment to New Zealand, and providing the critical concierge services that have allowed other countries like Ireland and Singapore to punch above their weight. 

    I can confirm today that funding will be allocated for Invest NZ in Budget 2025, ensuring they can crack on and get the job done. 

    Modern, reliable infrastructure – and my government’s efforts to deliver more of it to communities right across the country – will also play a major role in our Going for Growth plan.

    It’s why capital expenditure, including for frontline services like health and education, will be a priority in Budget 2025. 

    As I acknowledged earlier, the operating allowance in this year’s Budget will be a little smaller than previously signalled. 

    However, total capital expenditure allocated in the Budget is a little higher than forecast at $6.8 billion – split across health, education, defence, transport, and other portfolios. 

    When that is offset by savings identified in this year’s budget, it means the net capital allowance is $4 billion, compared to $3.6 billion previously signalled in the Budget Policy Statement. 

    For businesses, that investment represents an opportunity to develop critical skills and capability, promoting growth for many years to come. 

    For Kiwis, it will mean another big investment in the quality frontline services, like health and education, they deserve. 

    The two remaining pillars, our efforts to develop talent and to promote competitive business settings, will also feature prominently in the Budget, but I won’t be making be making announcements in those areas today.

    However, as Nicola Willis confirmed last week and I can confirm again today, there will be a small number of measures in this year’s Budget designed to make it easier for businesses to invest, whether they are based here or offshore.

    If we really want to create high-paying jobs, lift incomes, and make New Zealand a hub for innovation and investment, we need to make our business environment much more attractive. 

    I’m optimistic that Budget 2025 will take some positive steps in that direction. 

    The Minister of Finance was right last week to say Budget 2025 won’t be a lolly scramble.

    It’s not that we can’t afford it, although frankly we can’t. 

    It’s not that it wouldn’t feel good, because it might, for a little while. 

    No, it’s that we have a responsibility to stay disciplined and keep our eyes on the prize. 

    So far, we’re making real progress.

    Inflation is down, interest rates are falling, exports are rising, and the economy is growing. 

    For many New Zealanders, the prospect of a growing economy and rising incomes means a real shot at getting on top of the cost of living. 

    Now is not the time to put that risk. 

    In Budget 2025 that means staying focused, getting back to surplus, and maintaining a relentless focus on economic growth. 

    But for Kiwis, it’s about more than just the dollars and cents. 

    Lower inflation means less stress and less heartbreak, as prices stop skyrocketing and families finally stop falling behind. 

    Lower interest rates means a house becomes a home, not a source of pain and frustration as mortgage repayments crush weekly budgets. 

    And more economic growth means thriving local businesses, higher wages, more jobs, and ultimately more money in your back pocket.

    It means a chance to get ahead and beat the cost of living.  

    And it means we can have confidence that our best days lie ahead.

    New Zealand is the best country on Planet Earth.

    With the right choices, I think we can make it even better. 

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Speech to TRENZ 2025

    Source: NZ Music Month takes to the streets

    Tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou katoa.

    Thank you for welcoming me here today, and for that lovely introduction from Rebecca Ingram from Tourism Industry Aotearoa.

    I appreciate the great working relationships I have across the tourism sector and how we are united in wanting the best for our country.

    It’s wonderful to be back in Rotorua – one of New Zealand’s best-known and best-loved tourism destinations.

    Rotorua is actually the birthplace of New Zealand tourism.

    In the 19th century, intrepid international tourists took a 75-day sea voyage from Britain to New Zealand, followed by a 200km steam train trip from Auckland to Tauranga, followed by a horse-drawn carriage ride to Lake Rotomahana via Rotorua (a distance over 100kms). All in pursuit of the famous pink and white geothermal terraces.

    Once there, they were greeted by New Zealand’s first tour guides. Māori women from Rotorua’s local iwi Te Arawa demonstrated fantastic entrepreneurial spirit, not only by warmly welcoming these tourists but by developing businesses out of showing them what was then known as the “eighth wonder of the world”.

    While the terraces were lost in a volcanic eruption in 1886, Rotorua’s geothermal attractions remain world-class. And its people remain some of the world’s best and most hospitable tourism operators.

    I urge you to take the opportunity to experience all the amazing tourism experiences that Rotorua has to offer while you are here.

    I was in Europe last week talking trade and security with our partners and also attending the Pope’s funeral, and I heard from people all around the world about how much they want to come visit New Zealand. 

    I can’t wait to work with all of you in the room today to welcome them here to experience all New Zealand has to offer.

    Before we start, I would also like to thank the Premier Sponsor Air New Zealand and Tourism New Zealand, as well as all the prestigious event partners and organisers for bringing us all together and make TRENZ possible.

    A special thanks to those who have travelled from overseas to understand and experience our tourism offerings. Your participation is essential to the success of TRENZ.

    Context of TRENZ

    Tourism is about people-to-people connection, and it is fantastic to welcome both the buyers and sellers to TRENZ.

    As an industry, you should feel proud of your achievements in rebuilding our tourism sector and making such a huge contribution to our economy as a major employer and innovator.

    You are our global ambassadors for New Zealand. And you foster thriving communities to live and work in.

    We value you and the work you do enormously.

    Importance of tourism to the New Zealand economy

    Our Government is obsessed with economic growth because it is the only way Kiwis get higher incomes, more money in their pockets, more jobs, a future for their kids and grandkids, and better public services like health and education.

    We can achieve this by playing to our strengths. New Zealanders are famous for our innovation and creativity – as demonstrated by those early Te Arawa tour guides. And we are also home to some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world. Snow-capped mountains and fjords, golden sandy beaches, subtropical forests, and volcanic plateaus.

    Mix those ingredients together and you have a recipe for world class tourism experiences.

    So, it’s no wonder that tourism is a lynchpin of our economy.

    Domestic and international tourism expenditure is now worth over $44 billion annually. Tourism contributed 7.5 per cent of New Zealand’s GDP and it continues to be our second highest export.

    More than four in five New Zealand residents (82 per cent of us) benefited from tourism activity in their local area last year. 

    But we have room for more.

    Last year, we welcomed over 3 million visitors to our country.

    Which is a 12 per cent increase on the previous year, but still fewer than pre-Covid.

    There is plenty of capacity for more international tourists to visit our shores.

    There is also more capability and opportunities to provide more premium attractions and experiences. This doesn’t necessarily mean more expensive – it means more high-value.

    As good as our recent growth has been, globally we are middle of the pack in terms of the productivity per capita, which is measured by total value of tourism divided by the number of people working in it.

    If we push ourselves and get into the top 10 per cent of the most productive tourism markets in the world, we can generate another $9 billion in value for the industry.

    I hope that provides you with the motivation you need to keep innovating and keep investing in your businesses and tourism experiences. 

    Because tourism is a competitive market, and our job is to make sure we’re at the top of people’s lists and that we are converting desire to travel into reality.

    Broader benefits of tourism

    Welcoming more visitors here means more full tables in our restaurants, more bookings for our local accommodation providers, and more people visiting our regions and attractions. 

    But it’s not just businesses that are directly connected to the industry that benefit from tourism. The benefits of tourism filters into so many aspects of our society and economy.

    I have already mentioned our beautiful natural environment which is the backdrop of so much tourism in New Zealand. 

    One of New Zealand’s great success stories has been our efforts to eradicate invasive pests which damage our environment. We are now world leaders in pest eradication and have developed technologies and methods which we export to the world. But our success is partly thanks to eco-tourism, which provides us with the commercial incentive and revenue needed to undertake conservation work.

    Great examples of this virtuous cycle exist right here in Rotorua. Rotorua Canopy Tours provides visitors with an exhilarating experience of ziplining through ancient, native forest and it helps fund local conservation efforts.

    Reasons like this are why we are rolling out the red carpet and making it easier than ever for the world to visit our beautiful country.

    Removing barriers and growing tourism

    We’re at a pivotal moment where bold, decisive actions are essential to reignite our tourism industry and propel it back to the heights of 2019—and beyond. 

    The Government is fully committed to this mission. 

    We have already invested more than $20 million in a Tourism Boost package and will shortly be launching the Tourism Growth Roadmap. 

    These investments are not just steps; they’re leaps forward in our broader Going for Growth strategy. We’re not just aiming to recover—we’re aiming to thrive.

    I know our Minister for Tourism and Hospitality, Louise Upston, has been working hard to identify ways we can boost international tourism in the short-term. 

    Last month, we announced over $13 million for Tourism New Zealand to further bolster our international marketing. 

    Our Government is also committed to enhancing airline connectivity, recognising that it’s the lifeline to strengthening our global ties and boosting tourism and trade.

    We are working hard to build better airline connectivity with important emerging markets such as India. When in India recently, I was proud to witness the signing of a MoU between Air New Zealand, Tourism New Zealand and Air India to encourage commencement of direct (non-stop) flight operations between the two countries.

    We’ve also relaxed our visitor visa rules to accommodate the modern traveller. Digital nomads can now work remotely for their overseas employers while exploring New Zealand.

    Our visa process is becoming more efficient too. In 2024, the average visitor visa was approved in only 7 working days, which was 2 days faster than in 2023. This means people can plan their New Zealand adventure with confidence, knowing that we’re here to make your journey as smooth as possible.

    And here’s more good news: the majority of visitors do not need a visa to come here and instead can travel on a New Zealand electronic Travel Authority, which are processed within 72 hours. And, we have visa waiver arrangements with 60 countries, which is more than most of our comparator countries.

    We pride ourselves on our user-friendly immigration and border services, ensuring the arrival is as welcoming as our stunning landscapes. We are open for visitors, and we continue to offer stability, consistency, and transparency in our offerings.

    Conclusion

    In closing, I want to thank you. Thank you for your passion and resilience and for the incredible experiences you offer visitors. Thank you again Kerry, Bex, and TIA. 

    2025 is our chance to strengthen the value of tourism and drive New Zealand to be a humming, vibrant country. Together we can continue our work on being a resilient and prosperous sector that provides high-quality experiences and services.

    But we have to be bold. 

    Let’s continue to push our boundaries to ensure that New Zealand remains a world leader. 

    Keep up the great work, I look forward to talking with more of you throughout the event.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE, multiagency taskforce investigation results in 5 illegal aliens charged in human smuggling event leaving at least 3 dead

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    SAN DIEGO – Two complaints were filed in federal court May 6 charging five people with participating in a human smuggling event that led to the deaths of at least three migrants, including a 14-year-old Indian boy. His 10-year-old sister is still missing at sea and presumed dead; their father is in a coma and mother is also hospitalized. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement– Marine Task Force, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, United States Coast Guard, San Diego Lifeguard Service and San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office are investigating this case.

    “Human smuggling, regardless of the route, is not only illegal but extremely dangerous. Smugglers often treat people as disposable commodities, leading to tragic and sometimes deadly consequences, as we saw in this case,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations San Diego Special Agent in Charge Shawn Gibson. “Yesterday’s heartbreaking events are a stark reminder of the urgent need to dismantle these criminal networks driven by greed. HSI along with the U.S. Border Patrol, U.S. Coast Guard, and other partners from the Marine Task Force, remains firmly committed to holding those responsible accountable for these senseless deaths.”

    According to court records, on May 5, witnesses observed an overturned panga boat at a beach in Del Mar, California. Bystanders and San Diego lifeguards participated in rescue efforts. Law enforcement officials recovered three bodies, including the boy, identified in court records as P.P.B. Four other migrants were rescued and hospitalized, including P.P.B.’s mother and father; nine others were initially unaccounted for.

    Mexican nationals Julio Cesar Zuniga Luna, 30, and Jesus Juan Rodriguez Leyva, 36, believed to be involved in the smuggling event were taken into custody at the time of the incident. They have been charged with bringing in aliens resulting in death and bringing in aliens for financial gain.

    Border Patrol agents conducting operations in Chula Vista, California identified a vehicle that had been observed at the scene of the maritime smuggling incident earlier that day. The vehicle driver fled the scene before an arrest could be made. During the investigation, Border Patrol Agents identified two other vehicles involved in the smuggling event. They were able to successfully arrest the drivers of the load vehicle, and locate eight of the nine migrants missing from the boat, except for P.P.B.’s 10-year-old sister.

    Melissa Jenelle Cota, 33, Gustavo Lara, 32 and Sergio Rojas-Fregosa, 31, – all Mexican nationals – were arrested and charged with transportation of illegal aliens. Rojas-Fregoso, was identified as an alien who had previously been deported on Dec. 19, 2023.

    “The drowning deaths of these children are a heartbreaking reminder of how little human traffickers care about the costs of their deadly business,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon. “We are committed to seeking justice for these vulnerable victims, and to holding accountable any traffickers responsible for their deaths.”

    The charges and allegations contained in an indictment or complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sean Van Demark and Edward Chang.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Statement on Rep. Amodei’s Flawed Proposal That Would Make Nevada Lose Out on Millions of Dollars in Public Land Sales to Pay for More Tax Cuts for Billionaires

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) released the following statement after Congressman Mark Amodei (R-NV-02) and House Republicans snuck in a hastily-drafted proposal to sell off Nevada public lands to pay for more tax cuts for billionaires. 
    “I am outraged that Congressman Amodei sold out Nevadans in the dead of night by passing a flawed, hastily-drafted proposal that undermines the careful balance struck in the Washoe County Lands Bill and would result in our state losing out on much-needed funding. For years, I’ve worked in good faith with a wide array of stakeholders to craft a balanced bill that makes more land available for housing and economic development in Washoe County, while at the same time conserving precious public lands and advancing Tribal priorities,” said Senator Rosen. “While I will always support taking steps to address Nevada’s housing crisis, I will not support a Washington-drafted proposal that will lead to Nevada losing out on millions of dollars in funding for our local priorities like education and restoration around the Truckee River, all so Republicans in Washington can pay for more tax cuts for billionaires.”
    Without consulting Senator Rosen or the rest of the Nevada delegation, Congressman Amodei proposed and passed a flawed amendment in the House Natural Resources Committee that would sell off nearly 16,000 acres of public lands in Washoe County and hundreds of thousands of acres of public lands in Pershing County to pay for Congressional Republicans’ budget reconciliation proposal. This proposal abandons key provisions in the Truckee Meadows Public Lands Management Act, also known as the Washoe County Lands Bill, and directs funds from public land sales in Nevada to the U.S. Treasury, instead of keeping the funding in Nevada. It also ignores the balance struck in Senator Rosen’s Pershing County Economic Development and Conservation Act.
    Senator Rosen’s Truckee Meadows Public Lands Management Act would: 
    Permanently protect a million acres of public lands, which Congressman Amodei cut in his proposal.
    Promote sustainable growth and economic development by directing over 15,200 acres of public lands to be made eligible for sale, all of which must be assessed for its suitability for new affordable housing. An additional 33 acres are set aside to only be sold for affordable housing. Any land sold for affordable housing would have to be sold at less than fair market value.
    Support local Tribal communities by expanding land held in trust by more than 8,400 acres for the Reno-Sparks Indian Colony, 11,300 acres for the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe, and over 1,000 acres for the Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California, none of which is in the Amodei proposal.
    Provide local governments over 3,700 acres for public purposes such as parks, water treatment facilities, and schools, all of which is excluded from the Amodei proposal. Land is specifically conveyed to Washoe County, the City of Reno, the City of Sparks, the Incline Village General Improvement District, the Gerlach General Improvement District, the State of Nevada, the Truckee River Flood Management Authority, the Washoe County School District, and the University of Nevada, Reno.
    Keep proceeds from land sales in Nevada for priorities like education and restoration around the Truckee River, unlike the Amodei proposal that sends money from land sales to the federal government in Washington, D.C.
    For years, Senator Rosen has worked closely with a wide range of stakeholders across Washoe County to develop this comprehensive legislation. In 2023, she unveiled a working draft of the bill and collected feedback from hundreds of Nevadans during a public comment period, which she then incorporated into this legislation, which was previously introduced last year with the support of local government officials, conservation advocates, and business leaders.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pine Ridge Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Voluntary Manslaughter

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    RAPID CITY – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man convicted of Voluntary Manslaughter. The sentencing took place on May 2, 2025.

    Eugene Hunts Horse, age 29, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $2,000 fine and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

    A federal grand jury indicted Hunts Horse in May 2024. He pleaded guilty on January 17, 2025.

    On February 24, 2024, the victim arrived at a residence in Wounded Knee and attempted to gain entry into the home. The victim knew the occupants of the trailer and wanted to get inside. A male from within the home assaulted the victim with a weapon and ushered him down the driveway away from the home. Hunts Horse arrived around the time the victim was being escorted down the driveway and used an object to strike the victim several times in the head and body. Hunts Horse, who believed the victim had assaulted his cousin with a hammer earlier in the evening, became enraged and developed the heat of passion necessary to take the life of another. After killing the victim, Hunts Horse learned the victim was not the person who attacked his cousin. The Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety responded to the residence and found the victim near the roadway and driveway of the residence with a large fracture to his skull. The victim was bleeding extensively from his head. The victim ultimately passed away from his head injury a short time after the officer arrived.

    This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian country be prosecuted in Federal court as opposed to State court.

    This case was investigated by the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen prosecuted the case.

    Hunts Horse was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Global: Indian airstrikes in Kashmir following tourist attack raises fears of a regional conflict

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By MD Rakib Jahan, PhD Student, Department of Political Studies, International Relations, Queen’s University, Ontario

    In response to the Pahalgam terrorist attack on tourists in Jammu and Kashmir last month,, India has launched “Operation Sindoor,” a series of targeted airstrikes on nine locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

    The killing of 26 tourists in Kashmir’s Baisaran Valley on April 22 did more than shatter a moment of peace in one of South Asia’s most scenic regions. The assault has significantly increased India-Pakistan tensions and generated worries of possible military conflict between two nuclear-armed countries.

    Though Pakistan denies the charges, India has specifically held Pakistan responsible for sheltering terrorist groups.

    In response to the attack, India has taken several actions against Pakistan, including downgrading diplomatic ties, recalling diplomats, suspending participation in a vital water-sharing agreement and closing a significant border crossing.

    This rapidly deteriorating situation underscores the broader consequences of the devastating Pahalgam assault.




    Read more:
    India and Pakistan have fought many wars in the past. Are we on the precipice of a new one?


    Human tragedy

    Described by the region’s chief minister, Omar Abdullah, as “much larger than anything we’ve seen directed at civilians in recent years,” the assault in Pahalgam is not only a humanitarian tragedy and a blow to Kashmir’s economy but a flashpoint in an already fragile regional relationship.

    The Pahalgam attack’s timing coincided with United States Vice President JD Vance’s visit to India in April. This mirrors a grim pattern that includes former U.S. president Bill Clinton’s 2000 trip, when militants struck Chittisinghpura in Jammu and Kashmir hours before his arrival.

    By staging violence during diplomatic milestones, militants aim to amplify global attention and send a message to the Indian government. As global attention shifts back to Kashmir, the Baisaran massacre appears to mark a new chapter in the long-fought battle over this territory — one that risks tourism, targets civilians and threatens to unravel regional stability.

    Strategic targeting of Kashmir’s economy

    Though Kashmir has seen warfare for decades, militant groups had mostly avoided targeting visitors because of the the economic significance of tourism to Kashmir.

    The calculated selection of Pahalgam — one of Kashmir’s top tourist sites — reveals a plan to attack the core of Kashmir’s economy. According to counter-terrorism expert Ajai Sahni, the local community and militant groups have an implicit understanding not to compromise the tourism industry.

    By breaking this unwritten rule, the militants have demonstrated a willingness to inflict economic harm on the population.

    Nearly everyone in Kashmir, particularly in the valley, depends on tourism either directly or indirectly. Tourism, which has seen a resurgence since the COVID-19 pandemic, generates thousands of direct and indirect jobs and more than eight per cent of Kashmir’s GDP.

    Experts like Amitabh Mattoo, from the School of International Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University, warn that Kashmir may experience long-term devastating effects from a drop in tourism. A significant exodus of travellers from Kashmir has already taken place.




    Read more:
    Why are India and Pakistan on the brink of war and how dangerous is the situation? An expert explains


    Challenging India’s post-2019 Kashmir narrative

    The assault also weakens India’s narrative on Kashmir, an area that has been disputed by both Pakistan and India since their independence from Britain in 1947.

    The attack took place as India Prime Minister Narendra Modi was scheduled to open a multi-billion-dollar railway project to the Kashmir Valley, which his government contends will enhance tourism and economic development.

    Modi’s administration has presented the rise in tourism as proof of “normalcy” coming back to Kashmir following India’s removal of special status to Kashmir.

    The intentional targeting of visitors sends a message that the illusion of normalcy is misleading.

    A deadly departure from past tactics

    The Resistance Front (TRF), a rather unknown militant group founded in 2019 and designated as a “terrorist organization” by the Indian government in January 2023, claimed responsibility for the assault via social media. They offered no proof to back their assertion.

    TRF represents a new breed of militant Kashmiri nationalism and resistance. Indian intelligence agencies have connected the group to the Pakistan-based terrorist organization Lashkar-e-Taiba.

    TRF’s communication regarding the assault emphasized resistance to new “outsider” residency rights. This corresponds with worries voiced by some Kashmiris after 2019 modifications permitted non-locals to acquire land and get employment in the area.

    The government disclosed in April 2025 that 83,000 individuals have been given residence certificates under these new standards in the last two years.

    The future of Kashmir’s stability

    Apart from causing obvious human sorrow, the Pahalgam slaughter also endangers years of economic development and could send Jammu and Kashmir back into a cycle of bloodshed and instability.

    Targeting tourists could mean militants are willing to risk Kashmir’s economic core. The assault appears to be an attempt to internationalize the Kashmir problem at a time when worldwide interest had started to fade. It also exploits religious divides, and has succeeded in inciting severe security reactions.

    The future seems more and more uncertain for ordinary Kashmiris caught between security crackdowns and militant brutality. Historical trends indicate that more militancy usually results in more security policies, putting more strain on civilian life.

    For many teenagers and young people in Jammu and Kashmir, the lack of consistent income, mobility limitations and increased monitoring intensifies sensations of marginalization and anger.

    Radical groups can take advantage of these frustrations. To counter this, economic policies must address these inequalities.




    Read more:
    India-Pakistan strikes: 5 essential reads on decades of rivalry and tensions over Kashmir


    A strategy for the way ahead

    The Pahalgam incident calls for a counter-terrorism strategy that balances security with socio-economic stability.

    For example, tourism profit-sharing systems could be implemented and tax advantages or subsidies could be offered to tour businesses, especially those employing young marginalized demographics. This could help to bring some financial respite as well as long-term stability and has been successful in countries like Rwanda.

    The failure to pre-empt the attack despite heightened security during the Vance’s visit and the Hindu pilgrimage season reveals systematic intelligence failures.

    The way ahead calls for tackling both security issues and the underlying complaints still driving militancy in Jammu and Kashmir as the region once again confronts the possibility of violence.

    United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has urged both nations to de-escalate and return to diplomacy.

    MD Rakib Jahan 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. Indian airstrikes in Kashmir following tourist attack raises fears of a regional conflict – https://theconversation.com/indian-airstrikes-in-kashmir-following-tourist-attack-raises-fears-of-a-regional-conflict-256166

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI Canada: New Alberta voice in Washington

    For two decades, Alberta has had strong representation in the United States, advocating for Albertans and building integral relationships with key U.S. legislators, decision makers and investors.

    Through these relationships, Alberta and the U.S. have built a $187.2 billion bilateral trade partnership, with the U.S. accounting for 90 per cent of Alberta’s total exports. To maintain and continue building these ties, it is essential that Alberta has a skilled and experienced representative in D.C.

    To prioritize this work, Alberta’s government has appointed the Honourable Nathan Cooper as Alberta’s official representative to the United States, based at the Alberta Washington Office in the U.S. capital.

    Mr. Cooper will draw on his decades of experience in public service, including his most recent experience as Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, to lead this important work, focusing on attracting investment, expanding trade opportunities and maintaining the relationships needed to connect Alberta with key decision makers in the U.S.

    “Alberta has seen a lot of success in building its relationship with U.S. decision makers, and much of that success is thanks to the hard work of James Rajotte as Alberta’s Senior Representative to the U.S. In this evolving landscape, Alberta must maintain and build on our ties with U.S. officials, and Nathan Cooper is the right choice to fill this important role. I look forward to continuing to work closely with Nathan as we advocate for Albertans and for our province’s interests in Washington and across the U.S.”

    Danielle Smith, Premier

    “I’m honoured to be entrusted by Premier Danielle Smith with this critical assignment at such a pivotal time. Now more than ever, I see this as a vital opportunity to strengthen and advance Alberta’s long-standing relationship with the United States, ensuring stability and collaboration amid global uncertainty.”

    Nathan Cooper, Alberta’s senior representative to the United States

    “Having worked closely with Nathan, I’ve seen his unwavering commitment to Alberta’s interests. His ability to bring people together, coupled with his deep understanding of U.S. politics, makes him the ideal representative for Alberta in Washington. I’m confident his leadership will be invaluable as we navigate challenges ahead.”

    Nate Horner, Minister of Finance

    “As Speaker of the Assembly, Mr. Cooper is highly respected for his wisdom, integrity and ability to find common ground across parties. I cannot think of a better representative for Albertans in Washington.”

    Deron Bilous, senior vice-president, Counsel Public Affairs and former NDP Minister

    “Over the past few years, we have had the opportunity to work with Speaker Cooper on the Alberta – Wisconsin relationship and look forward to expanding that in his new role here in the United States. I am confident Nathan’s extensive American connections will serve Alberta well as we seek to maintain our strong bilateral relationship.”

    Robin Vos, Speaker of the Wisconsin state assembly

    “As both a business and community leader, I have full confidence that Nathan will be an invaluable asset to businesses on both sides of the border. Given the complexities of today’s political climate, his ability to bridge divides and foster economic collaboration will prove indispensable.”

    Bob Dhillon, president and CEO, Mainstreet Equity Corp.

    “Team Canada needs a strong Alberta in Washington, and Alberta needs strong representation for our trading interests. There might be some tough days ahead for the relationship between Canada and the United States, but I know Nathan Cooper will work hard for Albertans and a strong Canada.”

    Shannon Phillips, former NDP Minister of Environment and Protected Areas

    Since 2005, Alberta’s presence in the U.S. capital has helped advance the province’s economic objectives with U.S. decision makers. Alberta’s envoys have managed this important relationship from the Alberta Washington Office, which is collocated within the Canadian Embassy.

    Biography for Nathan Cooper

    The Honourable Nathan Cooper served as the member of the legislative assembly for Olds-Didsbury-Three Hills from May 5, 2015 to May 7, 2025.

    On May 21, 2019, he was elected by his fellow MLAs as the 14th Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta.

    Before his time as an MLA, Mr. Cooper served as chief of staff and director of legislative affairs for the Wildrose caucus and completed two terms as a councillor for the Town of Carstairs. He also brings extensive experience in cross-jurisdictional parliamentary affairs, including:

    • As the longest serving Canadian speaker he became dean of the Canadian Speaker Association in 2025.
    • Leading numerous parliamentary delegations to the United States, with a strong focus on relationship-building.
    • Serving as an international guest speaker at Commonwealth Parliamentary Association conferences in Canada and other Commonwealth nations.

    Mr. Cooper’s proven leadership, deep understanding of parliamentary systems and commitment to building meaningful partnerships make him exceptionally well-suited to advance Alberta’s interests in the United States.

    Quick facts

    • James Rajotte, Alberta’s previous Senior Representative to the U.S. has returned to Edmonton after four and a half years representing Alberta in the United States. He continues to serve as a senior advisor to Premier Smith focused on the U.S. file, working out of Premier Smith’s office in Alberta.
    • The salary for the senior representative to the U.S. is publicly disclosed annually in accordance with the Public Sector Compensation Transparency Act.
    • Alberta has maintained offices abroad for more than 50 years and currently has 17 offices in key markets like the United States, Japan, South Korea, the United Kingdom, Mexico, India, Singapore and the Middle East.

    Related information

    • Alberta’s international offices

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Busts Fraudster for Stealing Over $400,000 from a Citizen of the Pechanga Band of Indians

    Source: US State of California

    Wednesday, May 7, 2025

    Contact: (916) 210-6000, agpressoffice@doj.ca.gov

    ORANGE COUNTY – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today announced the filing of felony charges against a caretaker for stealing over $400,000 from a citizen of the Pechanga Band of Indians who was a dependent adult in her care. The California Department of Justice (DOJ) received a referral from the FBI alleging that the caretaker embezzled money from the victim to pay for personal expenses. These funds were received monthly by the victim from the Pechanga Tribe.
     
    “Caretakers have a profound responsibility to treat those in their care with the highest level of compassion and dignity,” said Attorney General Bonta. “They support individuals during some of the most challenging moments in their lives. At the California Department of Justice, we are committed to fighting against all types of abuse, theft, and neglect. We will take prompt action to hold accountable anyone who exploits or harms vulnerable members of our communities.”
     
    It is alleged that between October 2018 and January 2021, the caretaker used the victim’s funds to pay for vacations, luxurious dinners, mortgage payments, and other personal expenses. DOJ filed criminal charges in the Orange County Superior Court for Embezzlement, Theft from a Dependent Adult, and Grand Theft exceeding $100,000. 
     
    It is important to note that criminal charges must be proven in a court of law. Every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
     
    The California Department of Justice’s Division of Medi-Cal Fraud and Elder Abuse (DMFEA) works to protect Californians by investigating and prosecuting those responsible for abuse, neglect, and fraud committed against elderly and dependent adults in the state, and those who perpetrate fraud on the Medi-Cal program.

    The Division of Medi-Cal Fraud and Elder Abuse receives 75 percent of its funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services under a grant award totaling $69,244,976 for Federal fiscal year (FY) 2025. The remaining 25 percent is funded by the State of California. FY 2025 is from October 1, 2024, through September 30, 2025.
     
    A copy of the complaint can be found here. 

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: AG Labrador Announces Victory in Lawsuit Opposing California’s Electric-Truck Mandates

    Source: US State of Idaho

    Home Newsroom AG Labrador Announces Victory in Lawsuit Opposing California’s Electric-Truck Mandates

    BOISE – Attorney General Raúl Labrador announced today that California has agreed to repeal its electric-truck mandates that reach well beyond California’s borders. Nebraska led a coalition of 17 states and the Nebraska Trucking Association in challenging a suite of California regulations called Advanced Clean Fleets in the Eastern District of California. Among other things, Advanced Clean Fleets would have required certain trucking companies to retire internal-combustion trucks and transition to more expensive and less efficient electric trucks. The rule targeted any fleet that operated in California regardless of where the fleet is headquartered. Given California’s large population and access to international ports, this rule would have had nationwide effects on the supply chain. In the settlement announced today, however, California has agreed not to enforce the rule and to outright repeal it.
    “California’s attempt to dictate trucking standards for the entire country was a blatant overreach that would have devastated industries far beyond its borders,” Attorney General Labrador said. “This is a win for Idaho’s truckers and for the families and businesses who rely on them. Our truckers should not be forced to comply with mandates dreamt up by regulators in Sacramento. I’m proud to have joined this successful coalition, and I will continue fighting for policies that protect Idaho’s economy and constitutional rights.” 
    As part of the settlement, California regulators pledged to commence rulemaking proceedings to formally scrub the rule from the books. California regulators also conceded that they cannot enforce California’s 2036 ban on the sale of internal-combustion trucks unless and until the ban receives a Clean Air Act preemption waiver from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Previously, Attorney General Labrador joined a 24-state coalition led by Nebraska in successfully opposing California’s request for a waiver. In addition to Attorney General Labrador, attorneys general from the following states joined the lawsuit against California regulators: Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Utah, West Virginia, and Wyoming. Also joining the lawsuit were the Nebraska Trucking Association and the Arizona State Legislature.
    Read the settlement here.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy, Republicans Celebrate Small Businesses Driving America into the Golden Age

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Joni Ernst (R-IA), and a group of Senate Republicans introduced legislation declaring this week “National Small Business Week” to recognize the important role small businesses play in creating jobs and fueling the economy.
    “We need an economy which works for small business,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Small businesses create the majority of new jobs. That is President Trump’s goal, that is my goal.”
    “Main Street is roaring back under President Trump’s pro-growth policies that are ushering in a Golden Age,” said Senator Ernst. “This week, we celebrate the small businesses that mean so much more than the livelihoods they support and the jobs they create. These shops embody the American spirit and shape the culture of big cities and rural communities across America. I’m proud to recognize these entrepreneurs’ tremendous contributions and will continue to fight to ensure that they have a champion in Washington.”
    Senator Cassidy introduced the THRIVE Act to level the playing field for small businesses by directing the Small Business Administration to create a program that helps small businesses lock in the cost of commodities, like gasoline or lumber, in order to protect against the future volatile price of energy and other expenses.
    Cassidy and Ernst were joined by U.S. Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Jon Husted (R-OH), James Lankford (R-OK), John Kennedy (R-LA), John Cornyn (R-TX), Susan Collins (R-ME), James Risch (R-ID), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Steve Daines (R-MT), Jim Justice (R-WV), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Katie Britt (R-AL), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), John Boozman, (R-AK), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Josh Hawley (R-MO), John Barrasso (R-WY), John Curtis (R-UT), Jim Banks (R-IN), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Todd Young (R-IN), John Hoeven (R-ND), Tim Scott (R-SC), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), John Thune (R-SD), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Rick Scott (R-FL), and Jerry Moran (R-KS), 
    “Small businesses are the backbone of Louisiana’s economy and create good jobs across our country,” said Senator Kennedy. “This National Small Business Week, I’m proud to recognize everything small businesses do for America and keep fighting to throw out bad regulations that hold our economy back.”
    “Small businesses are the backbone of Idaho’s economy,” said Senator Risch. “During National Small Business Week, I’m proud to recognize the hard-working entrepreneurs who employ our neighbors, give back to our communities, and make the Gem State a special place to live and grow.”
    “National Small Business Week holds a special place in my heart because I know all too well the pressures and joy that come with owning a business and signing the front of a paycheck,” said Senator Scott. “This week I join my colleagues in celebrating their innovation, resilience, and drive that not only creates jobs but fosters community and inspires entrepreneurship across America. As a former small business owner myself, I’m committed to supporting them and ensuring they have the resources they need to thrive and succeed.”
    “As the son of a small business owner, I understand how vital small businesses are to Indiana’s economy,” said Senator Young. “I’m proud to stand with Hoosier small business owners and will continue advocating for policies that help them thrive.”
    “We can’t do Made-in-America without Ohio’s hardworking small business owners, entrepreneurs and job creators,” said Senator Husted. “This week recognizes their work to fuel our economy and drive the country forward, and I’ll continue supporting pro-growth policies that make the American dream achievable.”
    “We know that small businesses drive America’s innovations and economic strength,” said Senator Grassley. “Here in Iowa, they make up 99.3 percent of all businesses, and nearly half of Iowa employees work for a small business. In marking this special week, our resolution recognizes the power of small businesses and honors the men and women who work hard to keep our communities vibrant.”
    “Small businesses are the backbone of Wyoming’s economy,” said Senator Barrasso. “To celebrate National Small Business week, we honor these job creators in Wyoming and across the country. Senate Republicans will continue to work with President Trump to roll back harmful regulations and taxes so America’s small businesses can continue to thrive.”
    “In West Virginia, small businesses are an essential part of our economy, making up more than 98% of the businesses in our state and employing nearly half of our workforce,” said Senator Capito. “During National Small Business Week, I am proud to join my colleagues in recognizing and celebrating the critical contributions small businesses, like the female-owned Dolly’s Diner in Princeton I visited recently, make in West Virginia and across our country.”
    “By designating this week as National Small Business Week, we honor the small business owners who embody the entrepreneurial spirit that makes Texas the economic powerhouse it is today,” said Senator Cornyn.
    “Maine’s small businesses are the bedrock of Maine’s local economies and drive job creation throughout our state,” said Senator Collins. “As Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I remain committed to championing small businesses, the job creating engines that power our nation’s economy.”
    “Fighting for hardworking families, small businesses, and local Main Streets across Alabama has always been a top priority for me,” said Senator Britt. “Small businesses are the backbone of our nation’s economy, and I’m proud to recognize our incredible job creators and entrepreneurs this Small Business Week. I remain steadfastly committed to advancing policies that slash burdensome red tape, provide access to opportunities and resources, and unleash American ingenuity.”
    “Small businesses are at the heart of Tennessee’s economy and a cornerstone of our communities,” said Senator Blackburn. “As we mark National Small Business Week, I’m honored to celebrate these hardworking entrepreneurs. Under President Trump’s new Golden Age for America, we are seeing small businesses start to thrive again. I’ll keep fighting in the Senate to stop the largest tax hike in history and to advance pro-growth policies that cut red tape, lower taxes, and foster an environment where small businesses across America and Tennessee can continue to grow and prosper.”
    “This resolution reaffirms our commitment to supporting entrepreneurs and small business owners in the Cowboy State who demonstrate incredible resilience and determination,” said Senator Lummis. “As they pursue their American dream, they sacrifice countless hours through hard work to overcome challenges and build something meaningful for their families and communities.”
    “Alaska’s small businesses are the cornerstone of our economy, keeping our communities strong and economically vibrant,” said Senator Sullivan. “Our local businesses are the first to give back—contributing to local causes, hiring people who live here, and listening to the needs of the people in our communities. I’m glad to join Senator Ernst in introducing a resolution that acknowledges the incredible work done by small businesses across the country to invest in their communities. I look forward to continuing to work with Alaska’s small businesses to support our crucial, innovative entrepreneurs.”
    “Small businesses are a driving force of North Dakota’s economy, fueling growth, creating jobs and supporting strong communities,” said Senator Hoeven. “Designating this week as National Small Business Week highlights the dedication and impact of entrepreneurs and small business owners both in our state and across the country.”
    “Small businesses employ over 65 percent of Montana’s workforce and represent 99 percent of all businesses in Montana, which boosts our local economies and creates new jobs in our communities,” said Senator Daines. “I’m proud to join my colleagues in celebrating National Small Business Week to recognize all the entrepreneurs and business owners whose innovation and hard work helps keep both Montana and our country a great place to live, work, and raise a family.”
     “I am proud to join my colleagues in celebrating National Small Business Week. Small businesses are the backbone of America, and thanks to the leadership of President Trump our nation’s entrepreneurs are finally empowered again with the resources and support they need to see their dreams come true,” said Senator Scott. “I’ve run businesses small and large, and I know the hard work these folks put in day-in and day-out to keep their doors open and employees on payroll. This week is a time to recognize these hardworking Americans who support our economy and create jobs in their communities as they live their American dream.”
    “Small businesses power our economy and represent core American values like hard work, taking risks and the pursuit of success,” said Senator Boozman. “I am pleased to join my colleagues in celebrating National Small Business week to applaud their local and regional investments that create jobs and sustain communities across Arkansas as well as nationwide. These entrepreneurs deserve our recognition and total support.”
    “Small businesses are the backbone of communities across America, and they represent the heart of Mississippi’s economy and way of life,” said Senator Hyde-Smith. “National Small Business Week is a time to celebrate the American dream, the drive of our entrepreneurs, and the ingenuity that powers growth and opportunity.  I’m proud to support this resolution and honor the small businesses that keep Mississippi strong and our nation thriving.”
    “As a former small business owner, I fully understand the challenges that small businesses face,” said Senator Marshall. “That’s why I remain committed to prioritizing Main Street over Wall Street by cutting red tape and taxes, opening new markets, and ensuring small businesses have the capital they need to grow and thrive. This week, we proudly recognize the lifeblood of our economy by honoring the remarkable contributions of small businesses and officially designating this week as National Small Business Week.”
    “Small businesses are the lifeblood of Idaho’s economy,” said Senator Crapo. “Idaho’s 200,131 small businesses have an outsized impact–making up 99.2 percent of businesses in the state and employing 56.6 percent of all Idaho employees.  I applaud the owners and employees who roll up their sleeves every day, work hard and power our economy.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lower Brule Man Sentenced to 27 Months in Federal Prison for for Possessing a Firearm While Using Drugs

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PIERRE – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced a Lower Brule, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. The sentencing took place on May 6, 2025.

    Stephen Biviano Zapata, age 28, was sentenced to two years and three months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

    Zapata was indicted by a federal grand jury in September 2024. He pleaded guilty on January 27, 2025.

    This conviction stems from a traffic stop on March 27, 2024, in Lower Brule, in the Lower Brule Sioux Indian Reservation. Law enforcement was aware Zapata had an outstanding tribal arrest warrant. Upon his arrest officers searched Zapata’s person and vehicle locating three baggies containing methamphetamine, other drug paraphernalia, and an AR-style semi-automatic rifle with two magazines containing 48 rounds of ammunition. Zapata admitted to being a methamphetamine user and submitted a sample for urinalysis testing that was positive for methamphetamine. Zapata is prohibited from possessing firearms based on his drug use.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    This case was investigated by the FBI, the Bureau of Indian Affairs-Office of Justice Services, Lower Brule Agency, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Dilges prosecuted the case.

    Zapata was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. 

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Tooele County Man Indicted After Allegedly Assaulting Two Motorcyclists for “Trespassing”

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – A federal grand jury returned an indictment today charging a Utah man with multiple violent crimes after he allegedly zip-tied, kidnapped, and assaulted two motorcyclists who were riding their bikes in Tooele County, Utah, when they unknowingly crossed onto the Skull Valley Indian Reservation.

    Russell Allen, 50, of Tooele County, Utah, was charged by complaint on April 28, 2025.

    According to court documents, on April 26, 2025, Allen and another person allegedly assaulted the victims and told them they were trespassing on Indian land. The victims were allegedly ordered to the ground facedown, zip-tied, kicked and threatened with a knife. Allen and the other person allegedly took the victims’ belongings, including their motorcycles, purportedly as an impound for trespassing. Law enforcement later recovered the motorcycles in a maintenance shed on Skull Valley Indian Reservation Road. However, a search warrant later showed that many of the stolen items (camera equipment, cash, gift cards, wallets, and cell phones) were not recovered. The victims were then transported in a truck traveling at an estimated 100 mph to a remote desert area. The victims were then released without any of their property and had to walk over 10 miles for help from the Dugway gate guards in a hike believed to have taken six or seven hours.

    Allen is charged with kidnapping, assault, and theft while within Indian Country. His initial appearance on the indictment is May 7, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. in courtroom 8.4 before a U.S. Magistrate Judge at the Orrin G. Hatch United States District Courthouse in downtown Salt Lake City.

    Acting United States Attorney Felice John Viti for the District of Utah made the announcement.

    The case is being investigated by the FBI Violent Crimes Task Force.

    Assistant United States Attorney Sam Pead of the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah is prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lower Brule Man Sentenced to 27 Months in Federal Prison for for Possessing a Firearm While Using Drugs

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

    PIERRE – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced a Lower Brule, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. The sentencing took place on May 6, 2025.

    Stephen Biviano Zapata, age 28, was sentenced to two years and three months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

    Zapata was indicted by a federal grand jury in September 2024. He pleaded guilty on January 27, 2025.

    This conviction stems from a traffic stop on March 27, 2024, in Lower Brule, in the Lower Brule Sioux Indian Reservation. Law enforcement was aware Zapata had an outstanding tribal arrest warrant. Upon his arrest officers searched Zapata’s person and vehicle locating three baggies containing methamphetamine, other drug paraphernalia, and an AR-style semi-automatic rifle with two magazines containing 48 rounds of ammunition. Zapata admitted to being a methamphetamine user and submitted a sample for urinalysis testing that was positive for methamphetamine. Zapata is prohibited from possessing firearms based on his drug use.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    This case was investigated by the FBI, the Bureau of Indian Affairs-Office of Justice Services, Lower Brule Agency, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Dilges prosecuted the case.

    Zapata was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. 

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Congrats to IADC’s Brooke Polk for Being Named an OTC 2025 Emerging Leader!

    Source: International Association of Drilling Contractors – IADC

    Headline: Congrats to IADC’s Brooke Polk for Being Named an OTC 2025 Emerging Leader!

    Brooke Polk, IADC VP – Accreditation Operations, was recently named a 2025 Emerging Leader by the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC). The prestigious program recognizes young professionals with less than 10 years of experience in the energy industry who have demonstrated exceptional talent, commitment, and promise as future leaders in the offshore energy sector.

    Alex Martinez, Chair of the OTC Board, stated: 

    “Our Emerging Leaders are clear representations of the talent and excellence that will define the next generation of the offshore industry. We’re proud to recognize the contributions of these young professionals and remain eager spectators to the many future accomplishments they will undoubtedly achieve.” 

    The following honorees were recognized in a special ceremony in the Energy Evolution Exchange Theater and Lounge on Tuesday, 6 May 2025 at NRG Center in Houston. 

    2025 Emerging Leaders:

    • Dr. Ellen Reat Wersan, Exploration Geoscientist, Chevron, AAPG
    • Dr. Yingda Lu, Assistant Professor, Petroleum & Geosystems Engineering Department, The University of Texas at Austin, AlChE
    • Dr. Olusola Komolafe, Project Engineer, Geosyntec Consultants Inc., ASCE
    • Brooke Polk, Vice President-Accreditation Operations, International Association of Drilling Contractors, IADC
    • Gabriel Correa Perocco, Project Manager, MODEC do Brasil, IBP
    • Dr. Zheng Fan, Assistant Professor, University of Houston, IEEE-OES
    • Sridhar Krishnamoorthy, Senior Research Fellow, PhD Research Scholar, Indian Institute of Technology Madras Chennai India, MTS
    • Daniel Toerner, Technical Sales Engineer, Bardex Corporation, SNAME
    • Olawale Ajayi, Reservoir Engineer, NNPC Limited, SPE
    • Scott Pisarik, Lead Materials and Corrosion Engineer, Chevron, TMS

    IADC wishes to congratulate Brooke and all other recipients on this impressive achievement! 

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Congressional testimony: Supporting American leadership in quantum technology

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Congressional testimony: Supporting American leadership in quantum technology

    Editor’s note: On Wednesday, May 7, Dr. Charles Tahan, Partner, Microsoft Quantum, testified before the U.S. House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. To view the proceedings, please visit the committee’s website.


    Written Testimony of Dr. Charles Tahan
    Partner, Microsoft Quantum, Microsoft Corporation

    U.S. House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology
    “From Policy to Progress: How the National Quantum Initiative Shapes U.S. Quantum Technology Leadership”

    Chairman Babin, Ranking Member Lofgren, and Members of the Committee, thank you for the opportunity to appear before you to discuss the importance of quantum technology and the transformative role it will play for this country and for our collective future.

    It is an honor to be here again. I first appeared before this Committee nearly two years ago. Then, I was Assistant Director of Quantum Information Science and Director of the National Quantum Coordination Office (NQCO), an office within the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. The NQCO was created in the first Trump Administration by the National Quantum Initiative Act of 2018. Our job was to coordinate the more than 20 agencies led by the Department of Energy, the National Science Foundation, and the National Institute of Standards and Technology, along with the Department of Defense and the Intelligence Community, to develop and execute a national strategy to strengthen American leadership in quantum information science and technology. I spent almost four years in that job, which capped an almost 17-year career as a practicing physicist and technical leader at the National Security Agency and the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), where I worked on quantum computing, high-performance computing, and other advanced technologies. I now work at Microsoft where I lead technical teams within Microsoft Quantum that are working both internally and with our close partners to build the world’s first useful quantum computers.

    Through my testimony I hope to outline the transformative potential of quantum technology and why the United States must lead and win the quantum race. To provide some context, I will begin by highlighting the revolution in quantum sciences and why quantum matters in the age of artificial intelligence. I then expand on Microsoft’s leadership in this field—both through our own research and through our strategic collaborations with other leaders in the quantum ecosystem. But, despite our tremendous progress, sustaining American leadership requires government action. I therefore offer three focus areas that I believe this Committee and Congress should prioritize: (1) advancing the quantum sciences; (2) developing, attracting, and retaining a skilled quantum workforce; and (3) building a resilient and secure supply chain. Taken together, these strategic actions will not only bolster our nation’s security and competitive edge against competitors and adversaries, but it will also drive innovation and economic growth at home towards a new frontier of American prosperity.

    The Quantum Information Revolution

    I like to think of quantum science as the operating system of the universe. What we physicists call quantum mechanics are essentially the rules that the universe follows at the microscopic level. Over the last 100 years, we have learned a tremendous amount about how those rules work. They appear strange to us because we do not experience them in our daily lives. As we have learned more about these quantum effects, we have been able to leverage them to build new tools and technologies.

    The National Quantum Initiative Act of 2018 recognized that we were on the cusp of a new technological revolution—a quantum information revolution— where we could harness the more advanced and unusual properties of quantum mechanics. This revolution is not just about new research discoveries but also about creating fundamentally new types of information technology like quantum computers, quantum networks, and quantum sensors. The full implications of this shift in quantum information science are unclear, but we do know that maintaining our global technological leadership is critical to sustaining economic prosperity, enhancing our well-being, and safeguarding our national security. We also know this is the first moment in our lifetimes in which we are able to radically reimagine how we build computers. As a country, and as a computing company, we must take that seriously.

    Why Quantum Matters in the Age of AI

    In the two years since my last appearance before this Committee, the world has shifted dramatically. The remarkable rise of AI systems has surprised all of us and increasingly affordable AI capabilities are likely to transform the world even more profoundly than the internet. Despite its immense potential, artificial intelligence—even coupled with the most powerful classical computers today—has limitations. There are problems that AI and classical computing will never be able to solve, not in our lifetimes or even in a hundred lifetimes, because of the fundamental limitations of how they are designed.

    Quantum technology can offer unprecedented capabilities for computing. Consider two quick examples where quantum computers are exponentially faster than anything we could imagine a classical computer could do. The first is code-breaking, which has serious implications to our national security and privacy. A sufficiently large quantum computer could break the public key cryptography systems we now rely on in days or weeks. Even the most powerful classical computer we could ever imagine would take the age of the universe to solve the same problem. That is the power of exponential improvement. And it is why we must move to quantum resistant cryptography as fast as possible.

    The other more commercially relevant application is, quite simply, making things—designing new materials, new chemicals, and new medicines. If you think about what the future holds, what will differentiate nations in an era of intelligence is their ability to create new things using tools that enable them to do so better, faster, and at lower cost. And this is why quantum is so important, not only because it helps us understand the universe as scientists but because it gives us unprecedented capabilities to dramatically improve our lives.

    Microsoft’s Leadership in Quantum

    It is important to appreciate that bringing quantum technology to practical application is hard. It requires focused and sustained investments, sophisticated infrastructure, and the best talent in the world.  It also requires new types of hardware—quantum hardware—and a new quantum technology stack, from chips to the control and readout layers to the user interface. This requires science and innovation at every level. That is what makes developing quantum technology expensive.

    The quantum team at Microsoft has been pursuing quantum computing for over 20 years. Our research program has spanned all three CEOs. We are singularly focused on building quantum computers that are able to solve meaningful problems, like problems in chemistry and material science. To do this, we need quantum computers that can scale to potentially millions of qubits—or quantum transistors—as compared to the small number currently available in prototype systems today. Microsoft has been pursuing this on two fronts: through our decades-long internal research and through strategic collaborations in the quantum ecosystem.

    1. Microsoft’s First-Party Research: The Topological Approach

    Microsoft’s internal hardware effort is based on a unique scientific approach aimed at developing qubits that rely on very novel physics. These are called topological qubits. We think they are promising for quantum computing because they have the potential to make it much easier to scale, meaning to control and enable readout of the millions of qubits needed to develop a useful quantum computer. However, to build even one topological qubit, the team had to take a scientific theory that was first proposed in the 1930s and make it a reality—a feat that included creating a new state of matter and engineering a device in which to exhibit it.

    Earlier this year, Microsoft unveiled new technical results that begin to validate our roadmap toward a topological quantum computer.[1] In addition, Microsoft presented the Majorana 1 chip, which brought together for the first time all the key components, validated individually, that will be needed to build quantum systems that scale: cryogenic electronics, interconnect wiring, and a qubit microchip layout that is compatible with both the physics of topological operation and the limits of control electronics. It is the embodiment of Microsoft’s topological roadmap[2] and the team is proud of it.

    Our approach has been evaluated by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), which spent nearly two years vetting Microsoft’s architecture and engineering plan and the unique properties that enable topological qubits to scale.[3] As a result, DARPA selected Microsoft for the final phase of its Underexplored Systems for Utility-Scale Quantum Computing (US2QC) program—one of the programs that makes up DARPA’s larger Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI). To date, the US2QC program has brought together over fifty experts from leading government and academic institutions, including Air Force Research Laboratory, Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and NASA Ames Research Center, to verify our approach to quantum hardware, software, and applications. DARPA referred to this evaluation as “an incredibly rigorous and deeply technical analysis from what is almost certainly the world’s best quantum computing test and evaluation team.” The final phase of US2QC now envisions the development of a fault-tolerant prototype based on topological qubits—a crucial acceleration step toward making a utility-scale quantum computer a reality.

    Majorana 1 represents the pursuit of hundreds of scientists and engineers over the course of 20 years. Along the way there have been and will continue to be tremendous advances and contributions to the greater field of quantum information science and technology because of this pursuit. And this is why I came to Microsoft—to work on the hardest problems that promise to have an outsized impact for technology and for our society. Technical terms you may not have heard of, such as Topological and Floquet codes, pristine superconductor-semiconductor materials, measurement-based approaches to quantum computing, are all new technologies spun out of this pursuit with implications for many other types of qubits and other types of technologies, even other domains like astronomy. They came about because the Microsoft team found solutions to the hard problems—to the benefit of not only our company, but the entire quantum ecosystem.

    1. Strategic Collaborations

    At its core, Microsoft is a platform company. We want to empower our customers with the best computers in the world, whether they are quantum computers or classical computers, for the applications they care about. While we are excited about the continued advancement and promise of our own topological approach, we have no preference for which qubits ultimately provide our customers with quantum capabilities. We want the system to be the best technology for their use case. This means we develop software for multiple different technologies and layers of the quantum computer stack, everything from AI copilot to quantum languages to the real-time operating system needed to run a quantum computer with millions of moving parts.

    To do this, we work with, invest in, and partner with many different quantum computing technology companies, big and small, to help them make useful quantum computers a reality. We have entered into strategic collaborations with leading quantum hardware startups like Atom Computing, Quantinuum, and Photonic, and others. By applying our industry-leading error-correction and control software to their hardware platforms, we are accelerating the industry’s transition from rudimentary “Level 1” machines that use noisy physical qubits to the world’s first “Level 2” machines that rely on reliable, error-corrected logical qubits, composed of many physical qubits—which make quantum computing more useful for practical applications.

    Our breakthroughs in this area are coming fast. In April 2024, Microsoft and Quantinuum demonstrated the first logical qubits on record that outperform the underlying physical qubits.[4] Five months later, in September 2024, Microsoft and Quantinuum demonstrated 12 logical qubits on Quantinuum’s ion-trap machine, the most reliable logical qubits then on record.[5] Two months later, in November 2024, Microsoft and Atom Computing doubled this feat, creating and entangling 24 logical qubits made from neutral atoms.[6] These breakthroughs led by Microsoft, Atom Computing, and Quantinuum have for the first time moved the quantum industry firmly out of the “Level 1” noisy intermediate-scale quantum (NISQ) era to Level 2 resilient quantum computing. With Atom Computing, we are now offering the world’s first commercially available Level 2 quantum machines. These collaborations enable us to deliver best-in-class logical qubits for our customers today, further cementing Microsoft’s leadership in the quantum ecosystem. But even these “Level 2” systems that aim to provide 1000s of physical qubits will pale to the scale of a true, utility-scale quantum computer powered by a million qubits or more. Getting to this point will require more sustained, large-scale investments in many areas—from talent development to new domestic capabilities to supply chain resilience.

    Winning the Race in Quantum

    While Microsoft has made significant investments in quantum technology, the efforts of individual companies alone are insufficient for the United States to secure the leadership position. Winning the quantum race will not happen without clear-eyed, intentional, and decisive government action. Indeed, these actions will decide whether American global leadership will continue for the rest of this century.

    In his first term, President Trump and Congress laid the foundation for American leadership in the quantum sciences. The passage of the National Quantum Initiative Act (NQIA) was a strong first step in moving from dispersed quantum science initiatives to a more active, coordinated effort to not only lead in the foundational research, but also take scientific breakthroughs through to practical technological innovation.

    As this Committee considers reauthorization of the NQIA and other specific actions that the United States must take to secure our technological leadership in quantum, we offer more detailed recommendations across three policy priorities: (1) robust funding for quantum research, (2) developing top-tier quantum talent, and (3) securing the quantum supply chain. These three categories—described more fully below—require U.S. government leadership to maintain a competitive edge, drive innovation, and safeguard national security in the face of growing global competition.

    1. Advancing Quantum Research

    First, we must continue our long American tradition of leading the world in groundbreaking scientific research. Our curiosity, our ability to innovate, and our desire to build has been responsible for a century of American prosperity. Indeed, the past century of our global leadership is rooted in our ability to not only innovate but innovate first. For quantum, the first-mover advantage is likely to define the geopolitical landscape for the rest of this century – and likely well beyond.

    Last week, Microsoft President and Vice Chair Brad Smith wrote specifically about the critical role of the American research triad—the Department of Defense, the Department of Energy, and the National Science Foundation—in driving American scientific and technological innovation.[7] I will add to that the unique role that the National Institute of Standards and Technology has contributed to quantum information science since the field’s inception. In addition, there have been vital investments by the Intelligence Community’s research funding organizations, who have core missions that demand expertise to monitor progress in quantum information technologies. We must make it a continuing national imperative to energize these institutions—for our economic future, for our national security, and for sustaining our global leadership. The American scientific enterprise is unmatched in the world and there is no private sector substitute. We benefit from multiple institutions that have very different models for how to fund science. This allows the U.S. to fund everything from basic ideas to large, very focused development programs to purchasing novel supercomputers. There is nothing else quite like it in the world.

    Federal funding is the key to leveraging these institutions to sustain our leadership in quantum research and development.  Following passage of the NQIA, U.S. funding for the quantum sciences more than doubled from $456 million in 2019 to $1.041 billion in 2022.[8] But recent years have seen a decline, as reflected in President Biden’s $998 million budget request for FY2025. This has come as our global competitors are doing the opposite. Governments around the world are accelerating spending on quantum R&D – and China’s estimated $15 billion commitment dwarfs publicly reported U.S. funding levels.[9]

    To stay competitive, Congress should not only reauthorize the National Quantum Initiative Act but be purposeful in expanding initiatives through a coordinated national strategy. Key recommendations include:

    • Fully Fund and Expand Quantum Initiatives across the Federal Government: Reauthorize and fully fund the National Quantum Initiative Act and its programs. Congress should ensure agencies like the Department of Energy (DOE) and its National Labs, the National Science Foundation (NSF), the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), along with the Department of Defense and the Intelligence Community receive sustained appropriations to expand fundamental quantum science research and development. This includes supporting the NSF’s Quantum Leap Challenge Institutes and the DOE’s National Quantum Information Science Research Centers, which have a proven record of leveraging each federal dollar to attract additional private investment. Expanding these programs will spur innovation nationwide and solidify U.S. leadership in critical quantum technologies.
    • Increase Directed Quantum R&D Funding: Move beyond fragmented funding by adopting a more directed, strategic investment approach. A recent ITIF survey suggests that China’s centralized funding strategy gives it advantages over the diffuse U.S. approach.[10] Congress can consider targeted increases in quantum R&D budgets across key agencies, aiming to exceed past funding peaks and keep pace with competitor nations. Restoring growth in federal quantum R&D funding—particularly after the dip in recent years—is the first and most urgent step to ensure the U.S. does not fall behind.
    • Expand Translational Research Programs: Boost funding for government evaluation and prototype development programs to build a bridge between lab discoveries, engineering initiatives, and real-world applications. For example, DARPA’s Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI)—the flagship program for assessing quantum breakthroughs—should be expanded and fully funded. Congress can direct agencies (DOD, DOE, NSF) to coordinate on identifying high-value quantum research projects and push them toward validation programs (like DARPA’s QBI program) and then to practical realization with additional grants, prizes, or public-private partnerships.
    • Encourage Public-Private Collaboration: Federal investment should be paired with incentives for private sector co-investment in quantum R&D. Each dollar of federal funding often leverages additional private sector investment, so policies like matching grants, or innovation challenges can multiply the impact of public funds. Congress should also support joint research centers and consortia that bring together government, academia, and industry to solve quantum engineering hurdles. In addition, maintaining a stable, long-term funding outlook will give industry the confidence to invest alongside the government in quantum technology development.
    • Provide access to the latest quantum capabilities: Congress should streamline pathways for government agencies to provide the latest quantum computing technology to the researcher community, which would allow them to better identify impactful quantum applications and use cases.

    By significantly increasing federal funding and focusing it strategically, Congress can reinvigorate America’s quantum R&D enterprise. Continued U.S. scientific leadership depends on this commitment and history shows that breakthroughs from federally funded basic research (from the internet to GPS) drive decades of innovation and economic growth. Investing ambitiously in quantum now will pay dividends for American security and prosperity in the years to come.

    2. Developing & Attracting Quantum Talent

    Throughout its history, the United States has developed and attracted the brightest and most innovative minds– and it is what powers Microsoft, the broader American technology sector, and our great academic and research institutions. But this country now faces a severe shortage of STEM talent and, even more critically, a shortage of specialized quantum expertise.

    The global quantum talent pool remains small even as demand increases. It is no exaggeration to say that a handful of gifted physicists, engineers, and mathematicians could sway the balance of power and shift the dynamics in the race to develop quantum technology. Globally, there are as many as three job postings for every one qualified quantum worker.[11] In the U.S., we are struggling to develop our own talent and labor pool. Today the U.S. STEM workforce consists of approximately 36.8 million people, but 43% of doctorate-level scientists and engineers are foreign-born.[12] In 2021, more than half of doctorate-level computer scientists, mathematicians, and engineers working in the United States—occupations directly connected to critical and emerging technologies—were born outside the country.[13] Meanwhile, other countries are sprinting ahead in producing STEM graduates. In 2020, the U.S. awarded roughly 900,000 undergraduate STEM degrees annually, compared to 2 million in China and 2.5 million in India.[14] That gap may have widened in the past five years and today, the European Union leads in quantum talent concentration, with India and China also surpassing the U.S. in the number of quantum-trained specialists. Without a bigger domestic pipeline of quantum talent, even the most well-funded programs will struggle to succeed.

    Congress should enact policies to train, attract, and retain top quantum talent. Important steps include:

    • Strengthen STEM Education at All Levels: Congress must be laser focused on expanding the STEM pipeline from K-12 through to graduate school programs. This includes initiatives through the NSF, as well as state and local partners to enrich science and math curricula and increase awareness and interest in emerging technology. By introducing comprehensive STEM education early (in elementary and secondary schools), we can inspire more students to pursue careers in emerging technology and quantum-related fields.
    • Invest in Higher Education and Training: Congress should also continue and expand initiatives to train the next generation of scientists and engineers. We must continue to fund scholarships, fellowships, and research assistantships, particularly those focused in STEM and specifically in the quantum sciences. This must include developing high-caliber talent at our nation’s premier research institutions through grants and quantum research programs.  It must also include prioritizing community colleges and technical institutes that often launch students into STEM careers. Programs like the NSF’s Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) and Research Experiences for Teachers (RET) are critical to engaging more students and providing educators with hands-on quantum projects.  Congress should also increase federal support for STEM graduate students in quantum-related disciplines—currently, only 15% of U.S. full-time STEM grad students are supported by the U.S. government, down from 21% in 2004.[15] Bolstering fellowships and traineeships will produce more Ph.D.-level researchers ready to push the boundaries of quantum science.
    • Retrain and Upskill the Existing Workforce: To meet immediate needs, Congress should also consider activating NSF and the Department of Labor for workforce retraining programs that would help add talent to the quantum ecosystem. Adult education, professional development, and certificate programs in STEM and basic quantum fundamentals can rapidly expand the pool of “quantum-aware” professionals. These efforts will help fill roles in quantum research and product development that do not necessarily require Ph.D.-level expertise but do need specialized training.
    • Attract and Retain Global Talent:  Many of the world’s best minds—in quantum science and across disciplines—come to the U.S. for education and we must continue to find ways to support their continued contributions to our country after graduation. For example, from 2018–2021, temporary visa holders made up 37% of U.S. science and engineering Ph.D. graduates and over 70% of those students intended to stay in the U.S. after graduating.[16]  Congress should create expedited pathways for highly skilled quantum experts and expand the number of visas for Ph.D. graduates in quantum-related fields. Easing green card backlogs for advanced STEM degree holders could help the U.S. retain and attract international talent that would otherwise find opportunities outside the United States.
    • Promote International Collaboration: Congress should encourage collaborative research and exchange programs with allied nations to broaden the talent base within a trusted network. Joint initiatives with allies can pool expertise and resources to collectively train more quantum scientists. By deepening ties with like-minded countries the U.S. can both learn from our allies and ensure that we lead the quantum future together.

    By implementing these measures, the United States can build a robust pipeline of quantum talent. A comprehensive strategy spanning education, training, and international collaboration will equip the U.S. with the skilled workforce needed to drive quantum innovation and outpace global competitors.

    3. Securing the Quantum Supply Chain

    Building a secure and reliable quantum supply chain is essential. Quantum technologies across the board—computing, communication, and sensing—depend on specialized materials and components. This includes hardware like cryogenic refrigerators to advanced lasers and quantum chips. There are currently few suppliers or fabrication facilities for these items and most are globally distributed. This creates a real risk of supply bottlenecks or dependencies on foreign sources, which could stall our R&D progress or even compromise the technology stack. It currently takes 12 to 18 months to get certain components and equipment we need, many of which come from overseas. The U.S. must be able to either build quantum components and devices domestically or have reliable, secure sources through trusted allies. We also need prototyping facilities that are rapid, focused, and work at the pace of industry. However, establishing a resilient supply chain will not happen without focused government action. It is a complex challenge requiring coordination between agencies and partnership with industry. And the need to act is now.

    Congress and the Administration should pursue a national strategy to strengthen the quantum supply chain through the following actions:

    • Develop a National Quantum Supply Chain Strategy: We recommend that the Administration—perhaps via the National Quantum Initiative Advisory Committee or another interagency task force—develop a comprehensive strategy to develop the quantum supply chain. This strategy should identify key supply vulnerabilities, set goals for domestic capacity in quantum-related manufacturing, and provide the Administration with an action plan on how to spur public and private investment for key technology components. Congress may also consider regular reporting on quantum supply chain risks and a roadmap to de-risk dependencies.
    • Diversify Sources of Critical Components: The government should consider using federal purchasing power and funding to ensure multiple reliable sources for essential quantum hardware components. Congress can empower the Department of Commerce and Department of Energy to organize long-term purchase agreements or commit to buying key items (e.g. dilution refrigerators, superconducting amplifiers, high-purity qubit materials, photonic components) in bulk. Strategic investment (such as grants) could also target any chokepoints where the U.S. is overly reliant on foreign suppliers. By deploying capital toward widely needed quantum components, the government can incentivize companies within the United States (or, abroad in partnership with trusted allies) to build expertise and capacity.
    • Establish Quantum Manufacturing Facilities: Congress should also focus on building specialized infrastructure facilities for quantum device fabrication and testing. Building quantum computers and sensors often requires custom fabrication processes (for novel types of qubits, cryogenic electronics, etc.) and advanced packaging techniques. Congress should support the creation of one or more quantum foundries or test beds—perhaps through our National Labs or public-private partnerships—equipped to prototype and produce quantum components at scale. This includes facilities dedicated to fabrication, packaging, and assembly of quantum chips and systems, as well as laboratories for testing cryogenic and photonic components under quantum operating conditions. By investing in such infrastructure, the U.S. will reduce the need to rely on foreign fabrication facilities or suppliers for cutting-edge parts. These centers can also serve as innovation hubs where academia and industry collaborate on next-generation manufacturing techniques for quantum technology.
    • Prioritize Domestic Production of Advanced Components: Congress should create incentives (tax credits, grants, or loan guarantees) for companies to build production lines in the U.S. for critical quantum hardware. This includes the design and fabrication of advanced lasers, precision optics, microwave components, and quantum-grade semiconductors, as well as cryogenic electronics and ultralow-temperature refrigeration systems required for quantum labs. Capabilities like high-precision metrology (chip characterization) and advanced 3D packaging for quantum devices should also be developed domestically. Some of these areas overlap with semiconductor and photonics industries—where recent government efforts were aimed at boosting U.S. manufacturing— but specialized focus on quantum needs is essential. By onshoring production of these components, the U.S. will mitigate risks of foreign supply cut-offs and foster a local ecosystem of quantum suppliers and startups.  In tandem, federal R&D programs can partner with U.S. manufacturers to improve yields and performance in quantum-specific production, driving the costs down over time.

    By implementing these measures, the U.S. can build a resilient quantum supply chain that supports our nation’s long-term leadership. A combination of strategic planning, direct investment, public-private partnerships, and incentives will reduce dependence on foreign suppliers and ensure that our scientists and quantum innovators have access to the tools and components they need to succeed.

    Conclusion

    In closing, the government plays a critical role in coordinating our quantum ecosystem, funding the base of scientific discoveries and talent that the industry relies on, and being the first customer for next generation computers.

    Quantum technology promises to redefine the next era of human progress. The United States must act with urgency to ensure our continued leadership over the next hundred years.

    [1][2502.12252] Roadmap to fault tolerant quantum computation using topological qubit arrays.

    [2] Interferometric single-shot parity measurement in InAs–Al hybrid devices | Nature and Realizing Topological States on Quantum Hardware | APS Global Physics Summit.

    [3] DARPA selects two discrete utility-scale quantum computing approaches for evaluation | DARPA.

    [4] How Microsoft and Quantinuum achieved reliable quantum computing – Microsoft Azure Quantum Blog.

    [5] Microsoft and Quantinuum create 12 logical qubits and demonstrate a hybrid, end-to-end chemistry simulation – Microsoft Azure Quantum Blog.

    [6] Microsoft and Atom Computing offer a commercial quantum machine with the largest number of entangled logical qubits on record – Microsoft Azure Quantum Blog.

    [7] Investing in American leadership in quantum technology: the next frontier in innovation – Microsoft On the Issues.

    [8] National Science and Technology Council:  Subcommittee on Quantum Information Science, National Supplement to the President’s FY 2025 Budget.

    [9] Hodan Omaar and Martin Makaryan, “How Innovative is China,” Information Technology & Innovation Foundation, September 2024.

    [10] Id.

    [11] McKinsey & Company, “Quantum Technology Monitor,” April 2023.

    [12] National Science Board, “The State of U.S. Science and Engineering 2024,” March 2024.

    [13] Id.

    [14] Id.

    [15] Id.

    [16] Id.

    Tags: quantum, Senate Testimony, Technology

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Coons statement on violence between India and Pakistan

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) issued the following statement in response to increasing military action between India and Pakistan in the disputed region of Kashmir:

    “Since the devastating terrorist attack that killed 25 civilians in Kashmir last month, I have been following the escalating tensions and military exchanges between India and Pakistan with increasing concern. As we work collectively to bring the perpetrators to justice, I call on New Delhi and Islamabad to exercise restraint and continue their efforts to resolve this crisis through diplomacy. That is the only way to forge a path toward justice for the families of those killed without an escalation of destruction and death.”

    Senator Coons is a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Global: India-Pakistan strikes: 5 essential reads on decades of rivalry and tensions over Kashmir

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Matt Williams, Senior International Editor

    Indian paramilitary soldiers patrol a street in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir on May 4, 2025. Firdous Nazir/NurPhoto via Getty Images

    Indian airstrikes deep into Pakistan and retaliatory shelling across the border have put the subcontinent on edge once again, with many fearing a further escalation between the two nuclear neighbors.

    At least 26 people were killed on May 6, 2025, by missiles launched by India, according to Pakistani authorities. India says it targeted “terrorist infrastructure” sites in the operation in response to an attack on April 22 that saw dozens of tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir killed by gunmen.

    Pakistan warned it would respond “at a time, place and manner of its choosing.” Meanwhile, shelling by Pakistan across the “line of control” separating the Indian- and Pakistani-controlled parts of Kashmir killed 15 people, India says.

    It represents the most serious fighting between the two countries in decades. But Kashmir has long been a source of tension between India and Pakistan, as articles from The Conversation’s archive explain.

    1. The roots of the conflict

    The dispute over Kashmir, which sits on the northern tip of the Indian subcontinent and borders Pakistan to the west, can be traced back to the partition of India in 1947 and the policies of colonial British rule that preceded it.

    As Sumit Ganguly, an expert of Indian politics and foreign policy, explains, the British gave the rulers of nominally autonomous princely states the choice of which country they wanted to join post-partition: Muslim-majority Pakistan or Hindu-majority India. This put Maharaja Hari Singh, the monarch of Jammu and Kashmir, in a tricky position – he was a Hindu ruling over a predominantly Muslim population.

    “India, which was created as a secular state, wanted to incorporate Kashmir to demonstrate that a predominantly Muslim region could thrive in a Hindu-majority country committed to secularism. Pakistan, on the other hand, sought Kashmir because of its physical proximity and Muslim majority,” writes Ganguly.

    While Singh was still deliberating, a rebellion broke out in Kashmir, with newly independent Pakistan giving the insurgents support. India sent troops in on condition that Singh formally accede to India, and the first of four Indian-Pakistan wars began in 1947. It ended with Pakistan gaining control of a third of the disputed region.

    “Neither country has wholly reconciled itself to Kashmir’s status. India claims the state in its entirety, as it became a part of its territory legally. Pakistan, however, has historically held the view that Kashmir was ceded to India by a ruler who did not represent its majority Muslim population. Indeed, this dispute between two nuclear-armed powers remains a potential global flashpoint,” Ganguly adds.




    Read more:
    75 years ago, Britain’s plan for Pakistani and Indian independence left unresolved conflicts on both sides – especially when it comes to Kashmir


    2. More than a border dispute

    But to see Kashmir solely through the lens of Indian-Pakistani rivalry would do the complicated conflict a disservice. Often neglected in this reading is the views of many Kashmiris themselves, many of whom would prefer independence.

    Chitralekha Zutshi, a professor of history at William & Mary, notes that the desire for autonomy by groups in the region has resulted in numerous independence movements and repeated uprisings.

    Fighters from the pro-independence Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front parade in 1991.
    Mushtaq Ali/AFP via Getty Images

    Pakistan has supported some of these movements, a fact that India has seized upon to “write off unrest in the Kashmir Valley as a byproduct of its territorial dispute with Pakistan,” Zutshi writes. But in so doing, the grievances of “an entire generation of young Kashmiris” who view India as “an occupying power” have been ignored, the scholar continues.

    She concludes: “The Kashmir dispute cannot be resolved bilaterally by India and Pakistan alone – even if the two countries were willing to work together to resolve their differences. This is because the conflict has many sides.”




    Read more:
    Kashmir conflict is not just a border dispute between India and Pakistan


    3. A water war?

    Backing up the claim that the views of Kashmiris are often neglected is the fact that the Indus Waters Treaty – a crucial decades-old agreement that allows Pakistan and India to share water use from the region’s rivers – was drawn up largely without the input of Kashmiri people, writes Fazlul Haq, a research scientist at Ohio State University.

    Haq, who helps run the university’s Indus Basin Water Project, explains that even before the latest flare-up of violence, a dispute over the treaty was causing tension between India and Pakistan. The problem was that the original treaty, hailed as a success for many years, didn’t take into account the impact of climate change. Melting glaciers have put the long-term sustainability of the treaty at risk, jeopardizing the water supply for more than 300 million people.


    Fazlul Haq/Bryan Mark/Byrd Polar and Climate Research Center/Ohio State University, CC BY

    “Despite being the primary source of water for the basin, Kashmiris have had no role in negotiations or decision-making under the treaty,” Haq writes. Nor did it provide a mechanism for any regional disputes. “Tensions over hydropower projects in Kashmir were bringing India and Pakistan toward diplomatic deadlock long before the recent attack,” Haq notes.

    “The treaty now exists in a state of limbo. While it technically remains in force, India’s formal notice for review has introduced uncertainty, halting key cooperative mechanisms and casting doubt on the treaty’s long-term durability,” Haq writes. Pakistan has said any attempt to disrupt its water supply under the treaty would be considered “an act of war.”




    Read more:
    Tensions over Kashmir and a warming planet have placed the Indus Waters Treaty on life support


    4. On the precipice of a new war?

    There have been four full-scale conflicts between India and Pakistan: in 1947, 1965, 1971 and 1999.

    But since the turn of the millennium, cross-border skirmishes in Kashmir have largely been contained, in part due to external pressure from the United States and others who fear the economic and regional consequences of a conflict between the nuclear-armed neighbors.

    International relations expert Ian Hall, of Griffith University in Australia, writes that the calculus has changed a little. He notes that there is little economic cost to escalation, with “practically no trade between India and Pakistan.”

    The main concern for both sides now is “the political cost they would suffer from not taking military action,” Hall adds.




    Read more:
    India and Pakistan have fought many wars in the past. Are we on the precipice of a new one?


    5. The need for a Pakistan-India hotline

    During past crises between Pakistan and India, Washington has played an important role in deescalating tensions.

    U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent comments that he believes Pakistan and India will “figure it out one way or the other” suggests this is one occasion in which the U.S. may take a back seat.

    But as Syed Ali Zia Jaffery at the University of Lahore and Nicholas John Wheeler at the University of Birmingham in the U.K. note, that creates a problem.

    “The absence of a trusted confidential line of communication between the leaders of India and Pakistan is a major barrier to empathetic communication. It prevents the two reaching a proper appreciation of shared vulnerabilities that is so critical to crisis de-escalation,” they write.

    Their article uses the example of the Cuban missile crisis of 1962 to tout the importance of what the two scholars describe as “empathetic channels of communication.” U.S. President John F. Kennedy and his Soviet counterpart, Nikita Khrushchev, “exchanged a series of letters in which they acknowledged and expressed their shared vulnerability to nuclear war,” Jaffery and Wheeler write. Establishing mutual empathy and a bond of trust were critical to the peaceful resolution of the crisis.

    “Such a hotline between the highest levels of Indian and Pakistani diplomacy would be an important step towards preventing these crises from spinning out of control. More crucially, it could play a pivotal role in managing crises when they do occur, offering a vital channel for reassurance and de-escalation,” Jaffery and Wheeler add.




    Read more:
    Why a hotline is needed to help bring India and Pakistan back from the brink of a disastrous war


    ref. India-Pakistan strikes: 5 essential reads on decades of rivalry and tensions over Kashmir – https://theconversation.com/india-pakistan-strikes-5-essential-reads-on-decades-of-rivalry-and-tensions-over-kashmir-256157

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department Announces Results of Operation Restore Justice:

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    205 Child Sex Abuse Offenders Arrested in FBI-led Nationwide Crackdown, Including Four in the Southern District of Indiana

    May 7, 2025 – Today, the Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Restore Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track and arrest child sex predators. The operation resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of 205 child sexual abuse offenders in the nationwide crackdown.  The coordinated effort was executed over the course of five days by all 55 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section in the Department’s Criminal Division, and United States Attorney’s Offices around the country.

    “The Department of Justice will never stop fighting to protect victims — especially child victims — and we will not rest until we hunt down, arrest, and prosecute every child predator who preys on the most vulnerable among us,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “I am grateful to the FBI and their state and local partners for their incredible work in Operation Restore Justice and have directed my prosecutors not to negotiate.”

    “Every child deserves to grow up free from fear and exploitation, and the FBI will continue to be relentless in our pursuit of those who exploit the most vulnerable among us,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Operation Restore Justice proves that no predator is out of reach and no child will be forgotten. By leveraging the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state and local partners, we’re sending a clear message: there is no place to hide for those who prey on children.”

    “Children are the foundation of our communities. It is not their burden to protect themselves; it is our absolute responsibility as adults to shield them from the egregious predators charged today,” said John E. Childress, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “I commend the exceptional and tireless work of our law enforcement partners and AUSAs Tiffany Preston, Carolyn Haney, Samantha Spiro, and Jeremy Kemper, who are doing their part to execute Operation Restore Justice.” 

    “Behind every arrest during Operation Restore Justice was a child who was being exploited – who was suffering in silence,” said FBI Indianapolis Acting Special Agent in Charge Dominique Evans. “These crimes are both heartbreaking and deeply disturbing and the FBI remains committed to identifying and investigating these cases and ensuring those who responsible for such heinous acts are held accountable. Our hope is that these children now have a chance to heal and to rebuild their lives in safety, free from fear and surrounded by the care and support they need.”

    In the Southern District of Indiana, the following four individuals were arrested and charged with federal crimes:

    Defendant Name(s) Offense(s) Charge
    Raymond Robert Lapensee, Jr., 33, of Evansville Possession of Sexually Explicit Material Involving Minors (3 Counts)
    James Dean Collett, Jr, 29, of New Albany

    Sexual Exploitation of a Child and Attempt (4 Counts)

    Possession of Child Pornography (2 Counts)

    Eric Lee Dicken, 35, of Columbus Possession of Child Pornography

    Beau R. Thornburgh, 45, of Lebanon

    *Convicted sex offender

    Possession of Child Pornography

    Others arrested around the country are alleged to have committed various crimes including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material, online enticement and transportation of minors, and child sex trafficking. In Minneapolis, for example, a state trooper and Army Reservist was arrested for allegedly producing child sexual abuse material while wearing his uniforms. In Norfolk, VA, an illegal alien from Mexico is accused of transporting a minor across state lines for sex. In Washington, D.C., a former Metropolitan Police Department Police Officer was arrested for allegedly trafficking minor victims.

    In many cases, parental vigilance and community outreach efforts played a critical role in bringing these offenders to justice. For example, a California man was arrested about eight hours after a young victim bravely came forward and disclosed their abuse to FBI agents after an online safety presentation at a school near Albany, N.Y.

    This effort follows the Department’s observance of National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April, this effort and underscores the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and raising awareness about the dangers they face. While the Department, including the FBI, investigates and prosecutes these crimes every day, April serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preventing these crimes, seeking justice for victims, and raising awareness through community education.

    The Justice Department is committed to combating child sexual exploitation. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org.

    The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI’s tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office.

    An indictment or criminal complaint are merely allegations, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department Announces Results of Operation Restore Justice: 205 Child Sex Abuse Offenders Arrested in FBI-led Nationwide Crackdown, Including Four in the Western District of Missouri

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Today, the Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Restore Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track and arrest child sex predators.  The operation resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of 205 child sexual abuse offenders in the nationwide crackdown.  The coordinated effort was executed over the course of five days by all 55 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section in the Department’s Criminal Division, and United States Attorney’s Offices around the country.

    “The Department of Justice will never stop fighting to protect victims — especially child victims — and we will not rest until we hunt down, arrest, and prosecute every child predator who preys on the most vulnerable among us,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “I am grateful to the FBI and their state and local partners for their incredible work in Operation Restore Justice and have directed my prosecutors not to negotiate.”

    “Every child deserves to grow up free from fear and exploitation, and the FBI will continue to be relentless in our pursuit of those who exploit the most vulnerable among us,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Operation Restore Justice proves that no predator is out of reach and no child will be forgotten. By leveraging the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state and local partners, we’re sending a clear message: there is no place to hide for those who prey on children.”

    In the Western District of Missouri four individuals, Clinton Gray, 47, Joplin, Mo., Andrew Charles Nicholls, 38, Columbia, Mo., and Trevor Scott Teegarden, 34, Liberty, Mo., along with one additional defendant were arrested last week in separate cases. Charges include attempted production of child pornography, attempted transfer of obscene material to a minor, receipt and distribution of child pornography, and receipt and possession of child pornography. All charging documents have been unsealed following their arrests last week.

    These Western District of Missouri cases are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maureen A. Brackett, Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Turner, and Assistant U.S. Attorney James J. Kelleher. They were investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, FBI Kansas City Child Exploitation Task Force, Boone County Sheriff’s Cyber Crime Task Force, Joplin, Missouri, Police Department, Southwest Missouri Cyber Crimes Task Force, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs.

    Others arrested around the country are alleged to have committed various crimes including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material, online enticement and transportation of minors, and child sex trafficking. In Minneapolis, for example, a state trooper and Army Reservist was arrested for allegedly producing child sexual abuse material while wearing his uniforms. In Norfolk, VA, an illegal alien from Mexico is accused of transporting a minor across state lines for sex. In Washington, D.C., a former Metropolitan Police Department Police Officer was arrested for allegedly trafficking minor victims.

    In many cases, parental vigilance and community outreach efforts played a critical role in bringing these offenders to justice. For example, a California man was arrested about eight hours after a young victim bravely came forward and disclosed their abuse to FBI agents after an online safety presentation at a school near Albany, N.Y.

    This effort follows the Department’s observance of National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April and underscores the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and raising awareness about the dangers they face. While the Department, including the FBI, investigates and prosecutes these crimes every day, April serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preventing these crimes, seeking justice for victims, and raising awareness through community education.

    The Justice Department is committed to combating child sexual exploitation. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org. The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI’s tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office.

    Other online resources:

    Electronic Press Kit

    Violent Crimes Against Children

    How we can help you: Parents and caregivers protecting your kids

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

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI USA: NREL Partners With Chilkat Indian Village To Improve Housing in Klukwan, Alaska

    Source: US National Renewable Energy Laboratory


    The majority of housing in Klukwan consists of modular units imported from the Lower 48 in the 1970s, not well-suited to the extremes of Alaska. Photo by Molly Rettig, NREL

    A team of National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) researchers and Tribal staff gathered around the wood stove in Charlie Spud’s home, trying to figure out why it was not drawing air.

    “Every time I turn on the bath fan, the stove backdrafts,” said Spud, 61, who built the home 13 years ago with his wife Joanne.

    “That’s not good—it can bring carbon monoxide into the home,” said Jack Hébert, a senior research advisor at NREL’s Alaska Campus and a long-time Alaska homebuilder.

    The cozy, cedar-sided home overlooks the wide, braided Chilkat River and the massive snowcapped peaks straddling the Alaska-Canada border, where the Tlingit people have lived for thousands of years. Long before Alaska was a state, or the nearby fishing town of Haines appeared, this was a gathering spot for the Chilkat Tlingits (known as the Jilkáat Kwáan) who traveled to these shores by canoe to trade and share feasts of the region’s bounty.

    During a housing assessment, Charlie Spud (left) and Jack Hébert (center) troubleshoot why Spud’s stove is backdrafting. Photo by Molly Rettig, NREL

    A colorful wood carving on the living room wall honored the eagle—or Ch’áak’—clan that Joanne descends from. Like many in Klukwan, Alaska, Charlie and Joanne still spend a lot of time outdoors, hunting, fishing, and picking berries that grow in the lush Chilkat Valley.

    After investigating the stove and crawling around the attic with an infrared camera, the team discovered a lot of air leaking around the stovepipe into the attic, then escaping outside. It was due to stack effect, Hébert said, which occurs when heat rises within a building due to temperature differences between indoors and outdoors.

    “So much air is leaking around the pipe that it’s overpowering the fire’s ability to get oxygen. So, the fire has to pull air from inside the stack, which can bring dangerous gases into the home,” Hébert said.  

    He emphasized the importance of introducing outside combustion air into the area near the stove and made a note on the survey: Seal ceiling penetration around pipe to reduce stack effect.

    ‘Housing and Jobs: You Can’t Build a Community Without Either’

    This is one of many problems Klukwan is tackling as part of a $1 million award through the U.S. Housing and Urban Development’s Office of Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes. Since 1999, HUD has invested in hundreds of communities across the United States to make low-income households safer, healthier, and more affordable. Over the past decade, NREL has assisted 15 Alaska communities to implement these programs, including Buckland, Gakona, and—currently—Fairbanks Neighborhood Housing Services, helping direct a total of $16 million toward reducing in-home hazards.

    The goal of these programs is not only to improve housing but also to build a workforce that benefits local economies.

    “This project is about housing and jobs. You can’t build a community without either,” said Shawna Hotch, Tribal liaison for the Tribe, who oversees a variety of initiatives related to housing, energy, health, and more.

    Shawna Hotch is the Tribal liaison for the Chilkat Indian Village, NREL’s partner on the Healthy Homes project. Photo from Shawna Hotch

    Housing has long been a priority for the small Southeast Alaska community of 81 people. While the village has been around for thousands of years, most of its current housing was built in the 1970s and consists of modular units imported from the Lower 48 states. Today they are dilapidated, leaky, and expensive to heat. Housing surveys conducted in 2023, also in partnership with NREL, revealed high rates of mold, indoor air quality problems, and overcrowding and led the Tribe to pass a resolution declaring a housing emergency.

    New housing is critical to the community’s growth, yet high costs have inhibited construction. Many Tribal members share homes with multiple generations, move out of the community, or add mobile homes onto their permanent structures for more space.

    Charlie Spud’s daughter, Karlie, left the state four years ago when she had her first child because she could not find housing in Klukwan. Last year, when her brother moved out of their childhood home, Karlie came back to the village. Now she lives there with her daughter and works at the clinic across the street. 

    “In Klukwan, it’s really bad. If someone in your family passes away, that’s about the only way you can get a house. Some people buy mobile homes or kits from Canada, but there’s nothing affordable that will also keep you warm and comfortable,” Karlie said.

    NREL Researcher Chan Charoonsophonsak (right) documents housing conditions with Chilkat Indian Village staff. Photo by Molly Rettig, NREL

    In light of that shortage, they are fixing up what they have. Hotch enlisted NREL’s building and energy experts to perform building assessments and guide the retrofits to ensure they deliver long-term health and economic benefits to residents.

    “I love working with NREL. I’m not an energy expert—I work on so many different initiatives related to geohazards, health, and land protections that it’s very valuable to me to be able to trust these Alaskan experts,” Hotch said.

    Jilkaat Kwaan Heritage Center in Klukwan, Alaska, sits on the banks of the Chilkat River. Photo by Molly Rettig, NREL

    NREL Surveys Inform Retrofit Work To Make Warmer, Safer Housing

    In March, the assessment team made up of NREL building experts, Tribal staff, and private contractors visited 11 homes, interviewing residents, testing for lead paint and radon, and inspecting foundations, walls, windows, and appliances. The cold, wet climate of Southeast Alaska can be hard on homes, and many showed signs of moisture and mold. Other residents complained about cold floors, leaky roofs, or broken outlets.

    Charlene Katzeek lives in a double-wide trailer on a raised foundation overlooking the Chilkat Mountains. At age 75, she likes listening to audiobooks while she drinks coffee and plays cards. Her daughter, Deanna, the village public safety officer in Klukwan, often stops by to visit and help with housework, since Charlene is losing her eyesight. While the home is in pretty good shape, Charlene is on a fixed income and wants to reduce energy use.

    “There’s a big hole under the window. When my husband was alive, he would ask me to go outside and he could wave to me through the trim,” Charlene said, chuckling.

    Shawna Hotch visits the Jilkaat Kwaan Heritage Center in Klukwan. Photo from Shawna Hotch

    The assessment team found additional cold spots in the house that could be sealed and suggested upgrades to improve indoor air quality, such as removing old carpet and increasing ventilation.

    “In a cold climate, we build very tight homes and spend so much of our time inside in the winter,” NREL’s Hébert said. “Bringing fresh air into the home keeps everyone healthy and can really address our exceptionally high rates of respiratory illness in Alaska.”

    The housing assessment team included (left to right) Tim Ewing with Chilkat Indian Village, Chan Charoonsophonsak (NREL), Trevor Luedke (Steller Inspections), Jack Hebert (NREL), and Charlie Spud (Chilkat Indian Village). Photo by Molly Rettig, NREL

    After finishing the assessments, the team started poring over the data to make a plan for each house. Retrofit work is expected to begin this summer, as fishing, road construction, and other seasonal jobs take off.

    Just like those efforts, this project will strengthen the economy and make Klukwan a healthier, more vibrant place to live.

    Learn more about research at NREL’s Alaska Campus.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Pakistan is fully capable of defending its borders and responding to Indian aggression: PM

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    ISLAMABAD, May 7 (Xinhua) — Pakistan Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif on Wednesday said his country is fully capable of defending its geographical borders and responding to any aggression from India.

    Sh. Sharif made this statement while speaking in the National Assembly (lower house of parliament) of Pakistan.

    Pakistan shot down five Indian military aircraft without entering Indian airspace, he said.

    Pakistan’s National Security Council has “authorised” the army to take “appropriate” countermeasures in response to the Indian attacks, which killed 26 civilians and injured 46, the Prime Minister’s Office said in a statement on Wednesday.

    Tensions between the two South Asian neighbours have escalated after an attack on tourists in Pahalgam, which Indian media reported killed at least 25 people. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why are India and Pakistan on the brink of war and how dangerous is the situation? An expert explains

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Natasha Lindstaedt, Professor in the Department of Government, University of Essex

    India has launched military strikes against a number of sites in Pakistan and Pakistan’s side of the disputed region of Kashmir, reportedly killing 26 people and injuring dozens more. India claimed the attacks were on terrorist infrastructure, but Pakistan denied this, and said these were civilians.

    India says another ten people on the Indian side of the Kashmir region have been killed by shelling from Pakistan in the same period.

    The exchange comes two weeks after a terrorist attack in Kashmir killed 26 people. The group Resistance Front (TRF), which India argues is a proxy for the Pakistani-based terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility for the attack.

    India claimed that Pakistan had indirectly supported the terrorist attack, but Pakistan vehemently denies this.

    The escalating conflict between two of the world’s major military powers has the potential to destablise Asia and beyond. Already, many countries around the world, including the UK, France and Russia, have made public their concerns about what happens next.


    Sign up to receive our weekly World Affairs Briefing newsletter from The Conversation UK. Every Thursday we’ll bring you expert analysis of the big stories in international relations.


    How do India and Pakistan’s militaries compare?

    India is ranked as one of the world’s top five military nations by Military Watch magazine and Pakistan is ranked ninth. Both countries have nuclear weapons.

    Overall, India is considered to have the military edge with a bigger and more modern military force, while Pakistan has a smaller and more agile force that has been primarily focused on defensive and covert activities.

    While neither country has used nuclear weapons in a conflict, there are always concerns that this norm may be broken. Both countries are nuclear powers with India holding 180 nuclear warheads, and Pakistan possessing about 170.

    Though India has a “no first use” policy, which it claims means the country would never use nuclear weapons first, there have been signs it is reconsidering this policy since 2019.

    Pakistan has never declared a no first use policy and argues that tactical nuclear weapons are important to countering India’s larger conventional forces.

    Details of Indian air strikes.

    The concern is that even if a small nuclear exchange were to take place between the two countries, it could kill up to 20 million people in a matter of days.

    Why are the countries fighting over Kashmir?

    Kashmir has been a source of tension and conflict even before India and Pakistan gained independence from the British empire in 1947. Originally the Muslim-majority Kashmir was free to accede to either India or Pakistan.

    While the local ruler (maharaja), Hari Singh, originally wanted Kashmir to be independent, he eventually sided with India, leading to a conflict in 1947. This resulted in a UN-mediated ceasefire in 1949 and agreement that Kashmir would be controlled partly by Pakistan and partly by India, splitl along what’s known as the Line of Surveillance (or Line of Control).

    As Kashmir is rich in minerals such as borax, sapphire, graphite, marble, gypsum and lithium, the region is strategically important. It is also culturally and historically important to both Pakistan and India.




    Read more:
    India and Pakistan tension escalates with suspension of historic water treaty


    Due to the region’s significance and disagreement over sovereignty, multiple conflicts have taken place over Kashmir, with wars erupting in 1965 and 1999. Tensions were renewed in 2016, after 19 Indian soldiers were killed in Uri, on the Indian side of Kashmir. India responded by launching “surgical strikes” across the Line of Control, targeting alleged militant bases.

    Then in 2019, a bombing in Pulwama (again part of the Indian-administered Kashmir) that killed more than 40 Indian paramilitary personnel led to Indian airstrikes in Balakot which borders Kashmir. This was the first action inside Pakistan since the Indian-Pakistani conflict in 1971 and again led to retaliatory raids from Pakistan and a brief aerial conflict.

    A map of the Kashmir region.
    CIA, CC BY

    These past conflicts never intensified further in part because India applied a massive diplomatic pressure campaign on the US, the UK and Pakistan, warning against escalation, while Pakistan showed a willingness to back down. Both sides as nuclear powers (India gained nuclear weapons in 1974 and Pakistan in 1998) had an understanding that escalating to full-scale war would be incredibly risky.

    What will happen next?

    The question is whether or not cooler heads will prevail this time. The strikes by India, part of Operation Sinhoor, were met with mass approval across many political lines in India, with both the ruling Bharatiya Janata party (BJP) and the opposition Congress party voicing their support for the operation.

    This helps Modi gain more backing, at a time when his popularity has been falling. Modi and the BJP suffered a shocking result in the 2024 election, losing 63 seats out of 543 seats and falling short of a majority in the Lok Sabha (lower house of parliament).

    Under Modi, India has been rapidly becoming more autocratic, another source of concern as such countries are more likely to take risks when it comes to conflict. As power becomes increasingly personalised and dissent is repressed, would-be autocrats may be more likely to take on bold moves to garner more public and elite support.

    Pakistan may also have reason to respond with more force to India’s recent attack than in the past. Pakistan’s powerful military has often stoked fears of a conflict with India to justify its enormous military budget. Regardless of the outcome, it needs a success to sell to its domestic audience.

    Pakistan has been de facto led by its military for decades, which also makes it more likely to engage in conflict. In spite of intervals of civilian rule, the military has always held a lot of power, and in contrast to India (where there is a wider role for a civilian minister of defence), the Pakistani military has more influence over nuclear and security policy.

    Both military regimes and multi-party autocracies may see conflict as a way of gaining legitimacy, particularly if both regimes think their political support is unravelling.


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    This most recent escalation is also significant because it is the first time in the Kashmir conflict that India has struck at Punjab, considered the heart of Pakistan. Pakistan will face internal pressure to respond, settle the score and restore deterrence.

    Both sides have been resolute in not losing an inch of territory. The question is how quickly diplomatic pressure can work. Neither India nor Pakistan are engaged in security dialogue, and there is no bilateral crisis management mechanisms in place.

    Further complicating matters is that the US’s role as a crisis manager in south Asia has diminished. Under Donald Trump, Washington cannot be counted on. This all makes deescalating this conflict much more difficult.

    Natasha Lindstaedt 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. Why are India and Pakistan on the brink of war and how dangerous is the situation? An expert explains – https://theconversation.com/why-are-india-and-pakistan-on-the-brink-of-war-and-how-dangerous-is-the-situation-an-expert-explains-256125

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement from Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson on Tensions Between India and Pakistan

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jonathan Jackson – Illinois (1st District)

    As tensions rise between India and Pakistan, I feel compelled to speak; Not only as a Member of Congress, but as a man who has walked the streets of both nations, embraced their people, and listened to their hopes and fears firsthand.

    I had the honor of visiting both India and Pakistan on congressional and humanitarian missions. In Delhi, I met with educators, students, and faith leaders who are working tirelessly to bridge divides and build a future of innovation and inclusion. In Islamabad, I sat with mothers who shared stories of generational pain, but also expressed dreams of peace for their children. What struck me most on both sides of the border was the shared humanity; the deep desire for dignity, stability, and progress.

    These are not abstract foreign policy issues to me. The Indian and Pakistani communities in Chicago are part of my extended family. I have broken bread in their homes, celebrated their holidays, attended weddings and funerals. These are people who carry dual loves — for their countries of origin and for the American dream they are building here. They are watching these developments with heavy hearts, and so am I.

    My father, Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, Sr., always said that peace is not just the absence of war but the presence of justice. He traveled the world to help mediate conflict, whether in the Middle East, Central America, or apartheid South Africa. His mission lives on in my work today: to seek understanding over escalation and diplomacy over destruction.

    It is imperative that both India and Pakistan step back from the brink. Nuclear-armed neighbors cannot afford the cost of war. Not in lives, not in global stability, and not in the futures of their youth. I urge both governments to recommit to dialogue, mutual respect, and a long-term vision for peace in South Asia.

    I will continue to advocate for peace, justice, and the human dignity of all people. Let us rise above the cycles of history and choose a path forward — together.

    Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson
    U.S. Representative, Illinois’s 1st Congressional District

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: 26 civilians killed, 46 injured in Indian attack on Pakistan

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    ISLAMABAD, May 7 (Xinhua) — Twenty-six people, including women and children, were killed and 46 others were injured in Indian attacks on civilian areas in six districts of Pakistan on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, head of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of the Pakistan Army, said at a briefing.

    He said India had attacked homes and mosques, targeting civilians in Pakistan-controlled Kashmir and eastern Punjab province.

    He confirmed that the Pakistan Air Force had shot down five Indian fighter jets and one drone, the remains of which fell in Indian territory. “None of the Pakistani aircraft entered Indian airspace,” he added.

    The ISPR chief said that the Pakistan army hit several posts and a brigade headquarters of the Indian army in a retaliatory strike. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI USA: School of Nursing’s Sigma Theta Tau Mu Chapter Inducts 69 New Members

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    On April 27, UConn School of Nursing’s Sigma Theta Tau Mu Chapter held their annual induction ceremony. Undergraduate and graduate students, as well as nursing professionals and community leaders, were offered membership to the Honor Society. 

    In 1955, the UConn School of Nursing chartered Mu Chapter as the 11th chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International, the Honor Society of Nursing. There are now over 540 chapters internationally. 

    President Elizabeth Mayerson, DNP, RN, APRN, FNP-BC, CNE, presided over the ceremony. She explained “in the name of our honor society, Sigma represents love, Theta represents courage, and Tau represents honor. Our crest represents wisdom and discernment, service, professional endeavor, strength of leadership, and knowledge. Our key, which is represented on Sigma’s pin, denotes the satisfaction of professional life, the six founders, the lamp of knowledge, and our charge.” 

    UConn School of Nursing’s Sigma Theta Tau Mu Chapter 2025 induction ceremony. (Emily Laput)

    Based in Indianapolis, Sigma Theta Tau promotes scholarship and research in the field of nursing. The Mu Chapter hosts local meetings year-round and sends delegates to the society’s annual conferences at the regional, national, and international levels. It also supports exceptional research proposals through monetary awards provided by both the Mu Chapter and Sigma Theta Tau International. 

    “This is a really important and exciting part of your nursing journey,” Dean Victoria Vaughan Dickson, Ph.D., RN, FAHA, FHFSA, FAAN, shared with the inductees. “Many of you, if not all of you will be graduating soon, and that will mark you on your professional journey. This is a recognition of the academic excellence that you have brought to the School of Nursing, your commitment to service, and your leadership that we anticipate will continue throughout your professional career.” 

    The keynote address was delivered by Judith Hahn, Ph.D., RN, executive director of nursing professional practice and education at Yale New Haven Health System. She is also a graduate of the UConn SoN Ph.D. program.  

    “When I say leadership, many of you will think about the boardroom or wearing a managerial badge. But let me be clear, leadership in nursing starts long before the title does, it starts with a mindset, a commitment, a refusal to settle for average,” Hahn stated. “Which brings me to the University of Connecticut women’s basketball team. Both groups are forged in pressure, both are grounded in discipline, and most must be prepared to lead, not someday, but every day.” 

    Allison Villano at the SoN Sigma Theta Tau Mu Chapter 2025 induction ceremony. (Emily Laput)

    In 2025, the induction class consisted of 44 undergraduate students, 20 master’s students, and five doctoral students. Additionally, Sigma Mu Chapter recognized Nancy Dupont, UConn Health’s director of epidemiology, as a nurse leader.  

    “So as a member, I welcome you, as Dean, I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations for your accomplishments, and I also want to say that we are all proud of you as UConn nurses, and we look forward to seeing the many important and meaningful contributions you will make over the course of your career, both as a nurse, and now as a Sigma Honor Society member,” remarked Dickson. 

    2025 Sigma Inductees:

    Undergraduates

    • Skyler Arpin 
    • Michael Asante  
    • Courtney Balerna 
    • Nicole Ballas 
    • Alexa Bartoli 
    • Phoebe Bergstraser 
    • Melanie Bisbee 
    • Maria Bistras 
    • Molly Brett 
    • Kaitlynn Brito Torres 
    • Diamond Bussiere 
    • Abby Card 
    • Julia Cassano 
    • Logan Corey 
    • Katherine DeVito 
    • Sean Flaherty 
    • Tobias Fraedrich 
    • Gillian Fulton 
    • Amy Gabriel 
    • Madison Gaynor 
    • Flavia Heredia 
    • Esme Ho 
    • Khadija Ibrahim 
    • Brianna Iuteri 
    • Teresa Leopold 
    • Vincent Mascoli 
    • Luke Maynard 
    • Molly McElhinney 
    • Christy McEnroe 
    • Rohan Mistry 
    • Hailey Nardelli 
    • Olivia Orphanos 
    • Gifty Osei 
    • Skyler Phan 
    • Emi Rosenthal 
    • Madison Sastram 
    • Sherina Sauveur 
    • Allison Sidell 
    • Nicole Torres 
    • Allison Villano 
    • Daniel Ward 
    • Isabel Whelan 
    • Iris White 
    • Christina Yang

    Master’s Students

    • Brianna Arnold 
    • Brittany Barra 
    • Elizabeth Culbert 
    • Kimberly Davis 
    • Eleanor Dowd 
    • Stephanie Dumas 
    • Hillary Eisenberg 
    • Rachel Gold 
    • Emma Green 
    • Jawal Hage 
    • Nicole Hurler 
    • Kyle Kendall 
    • Paulina Obojski 
    • Pedro Ramirez 
    • Audrey Robertson 
    • Andrea Shirley 
    • Danielle Springer 
    • Emma Sullivan 
    • Salvatrice Tinsley 
    • Megan Wilmoth 

    Doctoral Students

    • Wilfred Elliam – PhD  
    • Laura Karwoski – DNP 
    • Anita Oppong – PhD 
    • Jennifer Pilchik – DNP 
    • Catherine Reilly – DNP 

    Nurse Leader

    • Nancy Dupont 

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three Individuals Charged in Scheme to Defraud Department of Veterans Affairs of Over $9.1 Million

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    HONOLULU – Three men were charged with participating in a scheme to defraud the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) of over $9.1 million in education benefits, including funds from the Post 9/11 GI Bill education benefit program. One of the men has pleaded guilty for his role in the scheme.

    According to court documents, Brian Matsudo, 58, of Honolulu, Hawaii, Marshall Scott, 39, of Kapolei, Hawaii, and Raheem Wells, 37, of Indianapolis, Indiana, conspired to defraud the VA. Matsudo was the owner of a massage therapy training school in Honolulu, Hawaii. From approximately November 2016 to November 2022, Matsudo conspired with Scott and others to obtain tuition assistance payments from the VA by intentionally failing to disclose that Matsudo’s massage training school was not in compliance with applicable VA rules and regulations.

    As alleged in the indictment, Scott began working for the massage training school owned by Matsudo in or about November 2016. As part of the conspiracy, Scott submitted enrollment certification forms to the VA on behalf of at least 40 military veterans supposedly enrolled at the massage training school. Scott knew that these forms contained false enrollment information and falsely certified that the school had complied with applicable rules and regulations. Wells was a student at the massage training school in 2020 and 2021. From about May 2020 to November 2022, Wells and Scott recruited “students” who allowed the school to lie to the VA by falsely representing that they were actually enrolled in courses.

    Both Scott and Wells allegedly profited from the scheme. Matsudo paid Scott for each person that he and Wells had recruited with the proceeds of the tuition payments made by the VA. Wells received monthly payments from the individuals

    he recruited to participate in the scheme.

    In April 2025, Matsudo pleaded guilty an Information charging to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    In April 2025, Scott and Wells were both charged in an Indictment with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and three counts of wire fraud. If convicted, they face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison on each count. Wells was also charged with obstruction of justice for instructing a witness to lie to federal law enforcement agents. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.

    Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; Acting U.S. Attorney Kenneth M. Sorenson for the District of Hawaii; Special Agent in Charge Dimitriana Nikolov of the VA Office of Inspector General (VA OIG); and Special Agent in Charge David Porter of the FBI Honolulu Field Office made the announcement.

    The VA OIG and FBI are investigating the cases.

    Trial Attorney Ariel Glasner of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section is prosecuting the case against Matsudo, with substantial assistance from Trial Attorney Jennifer Bilinkas of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section. Trial Attorney Glasner and Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig Nolan for the District of Hawaii are prosecuting the case against Scott and Wells.

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

    MIL Security OSI