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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Safeguarding the security interests of all Member States in the context of Türkiye’s possible inclusion in the EU defence programme SAFE – E-001528/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU leadership has recurrently underlined that the EU has a strategic interest in a stable and secure environment in the Eastern Mediterranean and in the development of a cooperative and mutually beneficial relationship with Türkiye[1].

    Türkiye is a candidate country, a key partner in several areas of joint interest and a longstanding partner in the Common Security and Defence Policy .

    Nonetheless, accession negotiations with the country remain at a standstill since 2018, as Türkiye has not reversed the negative trend of continued deterioration of democratic standards noted in the past years[2].

    Respect of rule of law and progressive alignment with the EU Common Foreign and Security Policy are integral parts of the EU-Türkiye relationship.

    The EU recognises the contribution of all non-EU Allies, including Türkiye, to the European and Transatlantic security. The EU is engaging with Türkiye on a phased, proportionate and reversible manner in line with the November 2023 recommendations of the Joint Communication on the state of play of the EU-Türkiye relations[3] and the conclusions of the European Council of April 2024[4].

    The White Paper for European Defence Readiness 2030[5] recalls that EU actions will take into consideration the security and defence interests of all Member States, while reaffirming the key role that like-minded partners can play to strengthen European security and defence.

    The proposed Regulation on Security Action for Europe[6] is under discussion in the Council and the conditions for cooperation with partners will be settled in this regulation, once adopted, following a two-step approach: first, joining joint procurement activities; second, negotiating an agreement with the EU to allow its defence industry to supply Member States.

    • [1] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/m5jlwe0p/euco-conclusions-20240417-18-en.pdf.
    • [2] https://enlargement.ec.europa.eu/document/download/7c67aed6-e7c2-47de-b3f8-b3edd26a3e26_en?filename=COM_2024_690_1_EN_ACT_part1_v11.pdf.
    • [3] https://enlargement.ec.europa.eu/system/files/2023-11/Joint%20Communication%20to%20the%20European%20Council%20-%20State%20of%20play%20of%20EU-Turkiye%20political%2C%20economic%20and%20trade%20relations.pdf.
    • [4] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/m5jlwe0p/euco-conclusions-20240417-18-en.pdf.
    • [5] https://defence-industry-space.ec.europa.eu/eu-defence-industry/introducing-white-paper-european-defence-and-rearm-europe-plan-readiness-2030_en.
    • [6] https://defence-industry-space.ec.europa.eu/document/download/6d6f889c-e58d-4caa-8f3b-8b93154fe206_en?filename=SAFE%20Regulation.pdf.
    Last updated: 26 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – The Qatar corruption scandal at the Commission and the Commission’s lack of transparency and cooperation in clarifying it – E-001292/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The Commission has dealt with the information it received from the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) in full compliance with the applicable procedures. Further to its investigation, OLAF transmitted the case to the Commission, with the recommendation to open the disciplinary procedure. A disciplinary penalty can only be imposed after the entire disciplinary procedure has been completed. Therefore, an instant removal of an official from the post is not legally possible. During the procedure, the persons concerned enjoy, in light of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights, the presumption of innocence.

    2. OLAF has not found evidence of criminal conduct. It did gather elements indicating a breach of professional obligations. The Commission is not aware of any evidence other than the one reported by OLAF.

    3. The EU-Qatar air transport agreement was negotiated at the request of Member States and EU stakeholders. The negotiations were conducted in a fully transparent manner with the close involvement of Member States representatives and EU stakeholders. The outcome of the negotiations was endorsed unanimously by all Member States that considered it fully responded to the negotiating directives adopted by the Council. The agreement was then signed by all Member States and the EU. The Commission considers that potential breaches of professional obligations by the then Director-General should not result in a suspension of the application of the agreement.

    Last updated: 26 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Major problems with EU funding for non-governmental organisations, according to the European Court of Auditors – E-001482/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission does not prescribe the specific activities in the applicants’ work programmes , nor does it instruct them to support any specific positions[1].

    The Commission has issued guidance[2] to mitigate the reputational risk from agreements involving activities directed at EU institutions, clarifying which activities should not be mandated as a condition for EU financing.

    Initiatives funded from the EU budget should not undermine the institution’s neutrality. Grants including operating grants are awarded competitively. Applicants submit proposals that include the description of their work programmes.

    This work programme is annexed to the grant agreement. The work programme may mention, among other applicant’s activities, advocacy activities.

    To date, the Commission has not identified irregularities in operating grants. The Commission will immediately take action should it become aware of any proven evidence of misconduct, such as breaches of contractual obligations.

    Interest representatives that apply for EU funding, which would typically include non-governmental organisations, are required to register in the Transparency Register[3] as not representing commercial interests.

    They are required to report their lobbying activities and declare their main sources of funding as well as the amount of each contribution above EUR 10 000 exceeding 10% of their total budget and the name of the contributor in their registrations in the Transparency Register.

    The Commission adheres strictly to its transparency obligations. Information about EU fund recipients, including non-governmental organisations, is published in the Financial Transparency System[4]. The Commission proactively shares the objectives and outcomes of funded projects on the Funding & Tenders Portal[5].

    • [1] In relation to the introductory statement, reference is made to the European Commission’s replies to the
      European Court of Auditors’ special report in question, https://www.eca.europa.eu/en/publications?ref=SR-2025-11.
    • [2] https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/docs/2021-2027/common/guidance/guidance-funding-dev-impl-monit-enforce-of-eu-law_en.pdf.
    • [3] https://transparency-register.europa.eu/index_en.
    • [4] https://ec.europa.eu/budget/financial-transparency-system/index.html; the annual publications are based on Article 38 of the Financial Regulation (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=OJ:L_202402509) whereby data on recipients is not disclosed for very low value contracts below EUR 15 000 and where disclosure risks threatening the rights and freedoms of the persons or entities.
    • [5] https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/home.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Spanish Government interference in private media – E-001296/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Telefonica SA has received the following EU funding under direct management: EUR 723 526 from seven grants signed under Horizon 2020[1]; EUR 1 658 582 from nine grants under Horizon Europe[2]; EUR 12.55 million from the Connecting Europe Facility[3]. It has also received EUR 604 533 078.24 from the European Regional Development Fund[4] in the last 10 years.

    Promotora de Informaciones (PRISA) SA has received the following EU funding under direct management: EUR 1 million in three grants under Creative Europe[5].

    The Commission remains committed to taking any necessary measures to ensure compliance with EU law, including EU State aid rules, and upholding the rule of law in all Member States and will continue to work with the Spanish authorities to promote the rule of law, including within the framework of the rule of law cycle.

    • [1] https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/funding/funding-opportunities/funding-programmes-and-open-calls/horizon-2020_en.
    • [2] https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/funding/funding-opportunities/funding-programmes-and-open-calls/horizon-europe_en.
    • [3] https://cinea.ec.europa.eu/programmes/connecting-europe-facility/about-connecting-europe-facility_en.
    • [4] https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/funding/erdf_en.
    • [5] https://culture.ec.europa.eu/creative-europe.
    Last updated: 26 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: REPORT on the Council position on Draft amending budget No 1/2025 of the European Union for the financial year 2025 entering the surplus of the financial year 2024 – A10-0116/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    MOTION FOR A EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT RESOLUTION

    on the Council position on Draft amending budget No 1/2025 of the European Union for the financial year 2025 entering the surplus of the financial year 2024

    (09619/2025 – C10‑0125/2025 – 2025/0091(BUD))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to Article 314 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

    – having regard to Article 106a of the Treaty establishing the European Atomic Energy Community,

    – having regard to Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 September 2024 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union[1], and in particular Article 44 thereof,

    – having regard to the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2025, as definitively adopted on 27 November 2024[2],

    – having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2020/2093 of 17 December 2020 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2021 to 2027[3],

    – having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 16 December 2020 between the European Parliament, the Council of the European Union and the European Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management, as well as on new own resources, including a roadmap towards the introduction of new own resource[4] (Interinstitutional Agreement of 16 December 2020),

    – having regard to Council Decision (EU, Euratom) 2020/2053 EU of 14 December 2020 on the system of own resources of the European Union and repealing Decision 2014/335/EU, Euratom[5],

    – having regard to Draft amending budget No 1/2025, which the Commission adopted on 09 April 2025 (COM(2025)0350),

    – having regard to the position on Draft amending budget No 1/2025, which the Council adopted on 16 June 2025 and forwarded to Parliament on 18 June 2025 (09619/2025 – C10-0125/2025),

    – having regard to Rules 96 and 98 of its Rules of Procedure,

    – having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets (A10-0116/2025),

    A. whereas the purpose of Draft amending budget 1/2025 is to enter in the 2025 budget the surplus resulting from the implementation of the financial year 2024, which amounts to EUR 1 345 million;

    B. whereas the main components of that surplus are a positive outturn on revenue of EUR 1 072 million and an under-spend of EUR 272,5 million;

    C. whereas, on the revenue side, the primary driver for the volume of the surplus is an amount of EUR 1 211 million in financial revenue, default interest and fines; whereas the outturn of the own resources in title 1 remains very close to the budgeted amounts in 2024 budget (including Amending budgets No 1-5);

    D. whereas, on the expenditure side, under-implementation in payments by all institutions, including cancellations of appropriations carried over, totalled EUR 273 million (equalling 0,02% of authorised payment appropriations);

    1. Takes note of Draft amending budget 1/2025 as submitted by the Commission, which is to budget the 2024 surplus, for an amount of EUR 1 345 million, in accordance with Article 18(3) of the Financial Regulation;

    2. Welcomes the fact that the 2024 surplus is driven primarily by an increase in the variation in Title 4 (Financial revenue, default interest and fines), while the surplus of expenditure remains very modest at EUR 273 million;

    3. Regrets that the budgeting of the surplus reduces the total GNI-based own resources contribution of Member States to the financing of the 2025 budget by a commensurate amount; stresses that, at a time when financing needs remain high, in particular for the EURI ‘overrun’ costs, and room for manoeuvre within the Union budget remains extremely limited, the budget should retain a sufficient level of flexibility to enable the Union to cope with unforeseen events and new emerging priorities; underlines that the flexibility of the Union budget is one of the key issues to be addressed in the negotiations for the post-2027 multiannual financial framework;

    4. Calls, also, on the Commission to design a sound and durable architecture for the next multiannual financial framework that enables sustainable management of all non-discretionary costs and liabilities, fully preserving Union programmes and the budget’s flexibility and response capacity, in particular as regards natural disasters and health emergencies, with the view to fully implementing the Union’s Preparedness Strategy;

    5. Recalls its long-standing position that windfall gains stemming from fines and fees, or equivalent amounts thereof, should be used as supplementary revenue for the Union budget for purposes of crisis response or unexpected needs and should not lead to a corresponding decrease in GNI-based contributions;

    6. Takes note of the negative income item under the new Article 425, amounting to EUR 534 million and welcomes this method of incorporating costs for the budget stemming from payment made under settlement agreement entailing compensatory interest and default interest compensation related to the repayment of annulled or reduced competition fines in accordance with the pertinent judgements of the Court of Justice; recalls that the Parliament, when negotiating the recast of the Financial Regulation, had insisted on the application of this approach since the alternative solution would have been additional expenditure appropriations in the already overstretched Heading 7; recalls that this solution comes to an end on 31 December 2027; invites the Commission to propose a definitive solution for the next MFF that achieves the same objective of avoiding any impact on the expenditure side of the budget;

    7. Emphasises the need for sustainable revenue for the Union budget; deplores, therefore, the complete absence of progress in the Council on the reform of the own resources system in line with the spirit of the legally binding roadmap in the Interinstitutional Agreement of 16 December 2020; recalls its position in support of the amended Commission proposals and urges the Council to adopt those proposals as a matter of urgency in order to diversify and consolidate the own resources available to the Union budget;

    8. Calls furthermore on the Commission to continue efforts to identify additional innovative and genuine new own resources and other revenue sources beyond those specified in the Interinstitutional Agreement of 16 December 2020; stresses that new own resources are essential not only to enable repayment of NGEU borrowing, but to ensure that the Union is equipped to cover its the higher spending needs, in particular in the context of the multiple challenges the Union is currently facing, including the new geopolitical context; considers that all new Union policies and challenges must involve new financial means and additional fresh resources;

    9. Approves the Council position on Draft amending budget No 1/2025;

    10. Instructs its President to declare that Amending budget No 1/2025 has been definitively adopted and arrange for its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union;

    11. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the other institutions and bodies concerned and the national parliaments.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Takata and illegal charges in Cyprus – P-001974/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    According to Regulation (EU) 2018/858 on the approval and market surveillance of motor vehicles[1], where a vehicle or component represents a serious risk, the manufacturer shall immediately inform national authorities[2] on the risk and the measures taken. Where the risk requires rapid action, national authorities must take all appropriate restrictive measures. Hence, Member States must ensure the proper recall of vehicles.

    The new General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR)[3], which applies from 13 December 2024, reinforces and introduces new and more stringent obligations for economic operators on, inter alia, product safety recalls and the right of consumers to cost-free, timely and effective remedies[4]. The GPSR is also implemented by Market Surveillance Authorities.

    The Commission closely monitors the enforcement of EU law and, in case of shortcomings, engages in a structured dialogue with the Member State to assess compliance . If it concludes that the legislation has not been implemented correctly, the Commission may initiate infringement proceedings under Article 258 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union[5] to ensure compliance.

    • [1] Regulation (EU) 2018/858 of the European Parliament and of the Council on the approval and market surveillance of motor vehicles (OJ L 151, 14.6.2018, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2018/858/oj).
    • [2] Approval authorities and market surveillance authorities.
    • [3] Regulation (EU) 2023/988 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 10 May 2023 on general product safety, PE/79/2022/REV/1, OJ L 135, 23.5.2023, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2023/988/oj).
    • [4] See Article 37 of the General Product Safety Regulation.
    • [5] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:12008E258.
    Last updated: 26 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Contract for supervision of the Rome incinerator project – P-001714/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    As already indicated in the written answer to the Parliamentary question by the Honourable Members E-002705/2024[1], the Commission notes that national courts and review bodies referred to in the directives on remedies in public procurement (Directive 89/665/EEC[2] and Directive 92/13/EEC[3], as amended by Directive 2007/66/EC[4] and Directive 2014/23/EU[5]), are best situated to assess in the first place, according to the facts of each case, whether contracting authorities and contracting entities respected their obligations under EU law as transposed into national law in a specific award procedure.

    • [1] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-10-2024-002705-ASW_EN.html.
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:01989L0665-20140417.
    • [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:31992L0013.
    • [4] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex%3A32007L0066.
    • [5] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex%3A32014L0023.
    Last updated: 26 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – The upgrading of the EU’s repressive mechanisms through ProtectEU at the expense of the people and their struggles against its war plans – E-001566/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU has strengthened the legislative framework regarding the protection of critical infrastructure, notably with the entry into application in October 2024 of the directive on the Resilience of Critical Entities[1], that enhances the resilience of critical entities that provide essential services for vital societal functions or economic activities. ProtectEU[2] stresses the importance of timely transposition and correct implementation of this directive .

    The EU Preparedness Union Strategy[3] provides a comprehensive approach to preparedness, cutting across all policy areas, governance levels and stakeholders, grounded on an all-hazards whole-of-government, and whole-of-society approach.

    The focus of preparedness should be on solutions that address complex crises with cascading effects, while maximising risk reduction and optimising resources.

    The EU investment in dual-use infrastructure on the Trans European Network (TEN-T) aims at boosting connectivity across all modes of transport, offering significant benefits for civilians in peacetime while also serving as deterrent against potential military crises.

    By building or upgrading existing transport infrastructure, dual-use projects have ensured that infrastructure is capable of upholding higher traffic volumes, including transportation of military capabilities as well as civilian traffic. The EU has provided around EUR 1.7 billion in support since 2021, funding 95 dual-use projects in 21 Member States.

    ProtectEU embeds in its core the respect for the rule of law and fundamental rights. The strategy promotes a whole-of society approach , as well as security mainstreaming for security considerations to be integrated in all EU legislation, policies and programmes.

    • [1] Directive (EU) 2022/2557 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 December 2022 on the resilience of critical entities and repealing Council Directive 2008/114/EC.
    • [2] Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions on ProtectEU: a European Internal Security Strategy; COM/2025/148 final.
    • [3] Joint Communication to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions on the European Preparedness Union Strategy, JOIN/2025/130 final.
    Last updated: 26 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Failure to meet General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) requirements: qualifications and skills of nominated members of the Bulgarian data protection authority (DPA) – P-001797/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    EU law requires the members of the national Data Protection Authorities (DPAs) to be appointed by means of a transparent procedure and that they have the qualifications, experience and skills, in particular in the area of the protection of personal data, required to perform their duties and exercise their powers[1].

    The Commission has observed that heads of DPAs have a diversity of background and experience prior to their appointment, before effectively exercising their tasks. For instance, it is not unusual that in some Member States the heads of DPAs come from the high public administration.

    The Commission notes that the new members of the Bulgarian DPA have been elected by the National Assembly on 9 May 2025 by means of a transparent procedure[2].

    As demonstrated by past actions, t he Commission is attaching utmost importance to the requirement of independence of the DPAs.

    The Commission will therefore continue to closely monitor the situation in all Member States as regards the full and effective independence of national DPAs.

    • [1] Article 53(1) and (2) of Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 April 2016 on the protection of natural persons with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data, and repealing Directive 95/46/EC (General Data Protection Regulation), OJ L 119, 4.5.2016, p. 1-88.
    • [2] https://www.parliament.bg/en/theme-site/ID/78.
    Last updated: 26 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Commission action in connection with Denmark’s transposition of the Enforcement Directive – 2014/67/EU – follow-up to Question P-000460/2024 – E-001880/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Following letters of formal notice sent to 24 Member States in July 2021 and reasoned opinions sent to 17 Member States in January 2023, including Denmark, for the non-conformity of their national measures with the Enforcement Directive on the Posting of Workers[1], the Commission closed infringement proceedings concerning 18 Member States[2] between March 2024 and May 2025.

    At this stage, the ongoing infringement proceedings concern six Member States (A ustria, Belgium, Denmark, France, Luxembourg and the Netherlands).

    Main issues identified in those infringements relate to administrative requirements and control measures (Article 9), penalties (Article 20), as well as cross-border enforcement of penalties and fines (Chapter VI) of the directive.

    The Commission is currently assessing the measures at issue in the context of the ongoing infringement procedures, including the one against Denmark.

    In determining the appropriate next steps, the Commission is mindful of the need to ensure equal treatment among all Member States for which it has identified similar concerns, in accordance with the principles of fairness and consistency in enforcement.

    If the Commission deems national measures not to be in line with the directive, it will continue to follow the stages of infringement proceedings, including possible referral to the European Court of Justice.

    • [1] Directive 2014/67/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 May 2014 on the enforcement of Directive 96/71/EC concerning the posting of workers in the framework of the provision of services and amending Regulation (EU) No 1024/2012 on administrative cooperation through the internal market Information System (‘the IMI Regulation’), OJ L 159, 28.5.2014, p. 11-31.
    • [2] Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia.
    Last updated: 26 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – EU dependency on US pharmaceutical imports and lack of adequate substitutes – P-001596/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Certain medicinal products and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) are imported into the EU from third countries, including the United States, and some of these imports play a critical role in the EU healthcare system.

    While comprehensive data or classification of such pharmaceutical dependencies for each medicinal product is not yet available , the Commission is aware that, in specific cases, there may be limited or no immediately adequate substitutes produced within the EU.

    This is for instance the case for certain plasma-derived medicinal products, where supply chains are highly complex, with different stages of production processes often happening in several different countries.

    Broader supply chain vulnerabilities were examined under the Structured Dialogue on security of medicines supply[1], with findings presented in the 2022 Commission Staff Working Document on the vulnerabilities of the global supply chains of medicines[2].

    In April 2023, the Commission proposed a new EU pharmaceutical legislation[3], which introduces the EU-level identification of critical medicines and the analysis of the vulnerabilities in their supply chains. It also includes regulatory measures to strengthen their supply security.

    To complement these efforts, the Commission adopted the proposal for a Critical Medicines Act[4] on 11 March 2025, which proposes additional measures to reinforce EU manufacturing capacities and diversify supply sources for critical medicines.

    Together, these initiatives aim to increase the resilience of the EU pharmaceutical sector while supporting patient access to critical medicines.

    • [1] https://ec.europa.eu/health/human-use/strategy/dialogue_medicines-supply_en.
    • [2] https://health.ec.europa.eu/system/files/2022-10/mp_vulnerabilities_global-supply_swd_en.pdf.
    • [3]  COM/2023/193 final; COM/2023/192 final.
    • [4]  COM(2025) 102 final.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Reviewing the IEP for the former ILVA steel plant – E-001875/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Article 24 of Directive 2010/75/EU[1] regulates public participation and access to information in permit granting and review procedures, and provides that the competent authority must i) consult the public concerned in cases where a new or updated permit is being granted; and ii) make available to the public several types of information, such as the content and copy of the decision; the reasons on which it was based; and the results of the consultations held and how these were taken into consideration.

    This obligation may apply to some of the documents mentioned by the Honourable Members. However, the directive requires that such information is made available to the public, including via the Internet, ‘[w]hen a decision on granting or the reconsideration or updating of a permit has been taken’.

    To the Commission’s knowledge, the process for the renewal of the permit of the Acciaierie d’Italia (former ILVA) steel plant in Taranto is ongoing and no decision has been taken yet.

    In accordance with Article 3 of Directive 2003/4/EC[2], Member States may be required to make available upon request other environmental information that does not fall within the above-mentioned obligation. Based on the information provided, the Commission cannot establish that this obligation has been breached in the case at hand.

    The Commission notes that several issues of non-conformity of the Italian legislation with Directive 2010/75/EU and of its bad application have been raised in the additional letter of formal notice sent to Italy on 7 May 2025[3] in the context of the ongoing infringement procedure INFR(2013)2177.

    • [1] Directive 2010/75/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 November 2010 on industrial and livestock rearing emissions (integrated pollution prevention and control), OJ L 334, 17.12.2010.
    • [2] Directive 2003/4/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 January 2003 on public access to environmental information and repealing Council Directive 90/313/EEC, OJ L 41, 14.2.2003.
    • [3] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/inf_25_982.
    Last updated: 26 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Economic impact and management of illegal migration in the EU – E-000894/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission does not have aggregate data concerning the costs incurred by the Member States in relation to third-country nationals illegally staying in the EU.

    Estimating the costs of returns depends on a variety of elements. In the case of voluntary returns, the estimated cost should include at least the flight and other transportation costs, the in-cash and in-kind assistance provided to the returnee and, where relevant, a package for the reintegration in the country of origin.

    In the case of forced returns, the estimated cost should include at least the cost of pre-removal accommodation, the flight (often a charter flight), the involvement of escorts when necessary, and other special arrangements before, during and after return.

    According to an estimate of the European Parliamentary Research Service[1], forced return costs EUR 3 414 per individual, compared with EUR 560 per voluntary return.

    The 2020 study of the Commission Joint Research Centre ‘Projecting the Net Fiscal Impact of Immigration in the EU’[2] provides an analysis of the fiscal impact of migration in the EU in the past and the future. No other such studies are planned for the immediate future.

    • [1] The Cost of Non- Europe in Asylum Policy, European Parliamentary Research Service, Authors: Wouter van Ballegooij and Cecilia Navarra, European Added Value Unit, PE 627.117 — October 2018.
    • [2] https://publications.jrc.ec.europa.eu/repository/handle/JRC121937.
    Last updated: 26 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Final Member Sentenced in Tennessee Fentanyl, Methamphetamine, and Marijuana Trafficking Ring

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Jackson, TN – A federal judge has sentenced Caricus Hendrix, 38, of Bolivar, Tennessee to 25 years in federal prison for his role in an organized drug trafficking scheme that spanned the state of Tennessee. Interim United States Attorney Joseph C. Murphy, Jr. announced the sentence today.

    According to evidence presented in court, in July 2021, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bolivar Police Department began an investigation into the illegal distribution of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and marijuana by members and associates of the rap label “FFG” in the Western District of Tennessee. By using controlled purchases of narcotics, search warrants, wiretaps, and other investigative tactics, agents determined Hendrix and others were responsible for transporting and distributing fentanyl, methamphetamine, and marijuana throughout the state of Tennessee, especially the Western District of Tennessee. During the investigation, agents seized approximately 16 pounds of methamphetamine, 3.5 pounds of fentanyl, 4.5 pounds of marijuana, and 13 firearms.

    On October 22, 2024, Hendrix pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl. On May 16, 2025, United States District Court Judge S. Thomas Anderson sentenced Hendrix to 25 years in federal prison and ordered Hendrix to serve five years of supervised release upon completion of the prison term.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    “This investigation represents the strength of federal and local partnerships in taking down complex drug trafficking organizations that poison our communities. The Bolivar Police Department remains committed to working alongside our federal partners to protect the citizens of our community from dangerous drugs and violent crime. This case demonstrates what is possible when agencies unite toward a common goal.”, said Bolivar Police Department Chief Michael Jones.

    The following co-conspirators have already pled guilty and have been sentenced:            

    • Shannon Wilder, 28, of Jackson, TN: 130 months and a five-year period of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
    • Eula Morris, 56, of Bolivar, TN: 87 months and a five-year period of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
    • Jarrett Wilson, 27, of Henderson, TN: 144 months and a five-year period of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
    • Joshua Fields, 29, of Lexington, TN: 204 months and a five-year period of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
    • Sheneka Waller, 37, of Bolivar, TN: 12 months and one day and a five-year period of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
    • Myreon Woods, 42, of Bolivar, TN: 120 months and a three-year period of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute fentanyl.
    • Montrez Brown, 29, of Bolivar, TN: 42 months and a three-year period of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute marijuana.
    • Charmaine Beauregard, 42, of Bolivar, TN: 15 months and a three-year period of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute marijuana.
    • Cordarvin McNeal, 36, of Bolivar, TN: 120 months and a five-year period of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
    • Danielle Boyd, 37, of Bolivar, TN: 12 months and one day and a three-year period of supervised release maintaining a drug premises.
    • Jaylen Sain, 29, of Bolivar, TN: 50 months and a three-year period of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute marijuana and aiding and abetting the possession with the intent to distribute marijuana.
    • Shumarcus Cross, 40, of Bolivar, TN: 27 months and a three-year period of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute marijuana.
    • Cameron Mickens, 26, of Henderson, TN: 100 months and a three-year period of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
    • Alfredia Atkins, 54, of Bolivar, TN: 36 months and a three-year period of supervised release for maintaining a drug premises.
    • Tavares Atkins, 47, of Selmer, TN: 36 months and a three-year period of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
    • Shalonda Bills, 36, of Bolivar, TN: 30 months and a three-year period of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute fentanyl.
    • Curtis Brown, 33, of Selmer, TN: 60 months and a three-year period of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
    • Michael Douglas, 32, of Lexington, TN: 130 months and a three-year period of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
    • Correy Brown, 41, of Bolivar, TN: 5 years of probation through the State of Tennessee.

    This investigation was conducted as part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

    The case was investigated by the FBI Jackson Resident Agency, Bolivar Police Department, Jackson Police Department, Lexington Police Department, Chester County Sheriff’s Department, McNairy County Sheriff’s Department, the Selmer Police Department, and the Bureau of Prisons.

    Assistant United States Attorney Christie Hopper prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.   

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    For more information, please contact the Media Relations Team at USATNW.Media@usdoj.gov. Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office on Facebook or on X at @WDTNNews for office news and updates.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Utah Man Indicted after Allegedly Shooting a Stolen Semi-Automatic Pistol at Two Victims in Salt Lake City

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – A federal grand jury returned and indictment charging a restricted person with multiple firearm crimes after he allegedly possessed a stolen semi-automatic pistol and shot at two victims in Salt Lake City.

    Hiram Bokadrik, 29, of Salt Lake County, Utah, was charged by complaint on June 11, 2025.

    According to court documents, on June 7, 2025 at approximately 4:18 p.m., officers with the Salt Lake City Police Department responded to a call of “shots fired” at a residence in Salt Lake City. Upon arrival, officers met with two individuals who reported a male suspect, later identified as Bokadrik, had fired a single round at them when confronted about trespassing on their property. During this time, officers recovered an expended 9mm casing from the scene. Additional officers quickly located Bokadrik, who fled from the officers on foot, but was subsequently located in a construction area hiding underneath a tarp. On construction materials, officers also recovered a loaded Glock 43X and a hat described to be worn by Bokadrik at the time of the crime.

    Additionally, the investigation revealed the firearm, which was manufactured outside the state of Utah, was stolen during a vehicle burglary at a nearby residence at approximately 12:00 a.m. on the same day. Bokadrik is prohibited from possessing, purchasing, transferring, or owning firearms or ammunition under both state and federal law.

    Bokadrik is charged with being a restricted person in possession of a stolen firearm and ammunition, and possession of a stolen firearm. His initial appearance on the indictment is scheduled for June 26, 2025, at 2:15 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 an FBI Task Force Officer with the Salt Lake City Police Department, Robbery and Violent Crimes Unit. Valuable assistance was provided by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

    Assistant United States Attorney Victoria K. McFarland of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah is prosecuting the case.

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

    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 USA: Griffith Announces More Than $1 Million HHS Grant to Clinch Valley Community Action, Inc.

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA)

    The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has awarded Clinch Valley Community Action, Inc., based in North Tazewell, Virginia, a $1,026,248 grant. The funding supports the organization’s Head Start program. U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) issued the following statement:

    “Southwest Virginia children and families receive access to Head Start through groups like Clinch Valley Community Action.

    “This grant for more than $1 million helps Clinch Valley Community Action tend to the Head Start needs of Southwest Virginia communities.”

    BACKGROUND

    According to its website, the Clinch Valley Community Action Head Start program operates eight classrooms in Tazewell County that serve 157 children. 

    Outside of Tazewell County, Clinch Valley Community Action offers Head Start programs to Bland, Smyth and Wythe Counties.

    In a recent Health Subcommittee hearing with Congressman Griffith present, HHS Secretary Kennedy noted President Trump’s Budget request recommends Head Start continue to receive funding equal to the FY 2025 enacted level.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Griffith Op-Ed: “Big, Beautiful Bill” Bolsters Electric Grid, Helps Protect Americans from Blackout Threats

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA)

    As the U.S. Congress continues to deliberate on a reconciliation package to deliver to President Trump’s desk ahead of July 4, Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) penned an op-ed on the package’s benefits for America’s electric grid. 

    Read his full op-ed in the Washington Examiner here or below.

    The intense heat wave battering the United States pushes America’s electric grid to the brink and threatens potential power outages. But House Republicans offer a policy change that bolsters our grid and helps protect Americans from blackout threats.

    Communities across much of the country face scorching temperatures, prompting power companies to take notice and act accordingly.

    In my part of Virginia, local power companies affiliated with the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) are encouraging their customers to reduce electricity use. This request appears to be based on an announcement from the TVA.

    Alerts of potential breaking points in America’s electric grid are not unique to the TVA and are unfortunately becoming more and more frequent. 

    The Friday before Memorial Day, Energy Secretary Chris Wright issued an emergency order directing the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO), the Midwest grid operator, to keep a coal-fired power plant in Michigan in operation. These emergency actions are authorized for up to 90 days at a time under Section 202(c) of the Federal Power Act.

    Wright issued the order to minimize the risk of blackouts ahead of the high electricity demand expected this summer.

    MISO runs North to South from Manitoba and Michigan down to Louisiana and a portion of East Texas. 

    Notwithstanding keeping the plant in Michigan open, the New Orleans metro area suffered a large and unexpected power outage during Memorial Day weekend. At the blackout’s peak, more than 100,000 customers lost electricity.

    According to news website Axios, utilities knew high demand was likely that weekend. However, they had no extra power capacity. When one plant went down, their customers were plunged into darkness.

    Reports confirmed that two of the region’s nuclear power plants lost connection to the grid. One was due to expected maintenance, while the other was unexpected. Constrained by a lack of energy supply, grid operators cut power to customers in New Orleans.

    Entergy, an electric utility company in the region, said that the forced outages directed by MISO were done to prevent a larger scale and more prolonged power outage from impacting the electric grid.

    This blackout was not the only major power outage in recent memory.

    On April 28, Portugal and Spain witnessed the worst blackout in their history, affecting 55 million people, per British newspaper The Guardian.

    Airports shut down, cars drove on streets without traffic lights, hospitals resorted to backup generators and some people were stuck in elevators!

    The Iberian Peninsula blackout continues to be investigated. Lots of finger-pointing is going on between Spain’s grid operator, the government and plant operators. But it is interesting to note that on April 16, Spain reported its first weekday where its national power grid was 100% reliant on renewable power.

    A coincidence? Maybe, maybe not.

    Coincidentally, in a recent Virginia Tech press release, professor and Power and Energy Center director Dr. Ali Mehrizi-Sani highlighted how the systems that control these clean energy sources are more susceptible to blackouts.

    As parts of the world transition to renewable energy sources like wind and solar, the lack of seamless grid adaptation to the use of these sources, as illustrated by the blackout in Spain and Portugal and by experts like Dr. Mehrizi-Sani, threatens destabilization of electric grids and more blackouts.

    Leftist policies that attempted to gut our grid’s reliance on fossil fuels and convert to renewables have pushed America’s electric grid to the brink.

    Federal policies, like the Obama-era “War on Coal” and the Biden Administration’s so-called Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), shunning reliable baseload forms of energy like coal and natural gas have made our electric grid more vulnerable to failure.  

    But House Republicans offer a potential policy change that levels the playing field and openly welcomes baseload power.

    The One Big Beautiful Bill Act curtails some IRA tax credits which disincentivize coal and natural gas power plants. We maintain the incentives for nuclear because of its significant potential for baseload power.

    Republicans also create an energy project insurance pool to help protect energy investors from permits being revoked for coal, oil, critical minerals, natural gas or nuclear installations.

    This de-risking compensation fund will make it harder for federal policies to discourage and phase out these reliable energy sources.

    As extreme summer heat continues to threaten potential power outages, we must secure and equip our electric grid with reliable energy solutions.

    We do not need to follow in Spain’s footsteps and make Iberian Peninsula-style blackouts the norm.

    The One Big Beautiful Bill Act helps Americans avoid blackout threats by instituting reliable forms of baseload power. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Griffith Announces More Than $4 Million HHS Grant to People Incorporated of Virginia

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA)

    The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has awarded People Incorporated of Virginia, based in Abingdon, Virginia, a $4,059,715 grant. The funding supports head start and early head start projects. U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) issued the following statement:

    “People Incorporated is a provider of head start services in Southwest Virginia.

    “This grant for more than $4 million helps People Incorporated administer head start and early head start services.”

    BACKGROUND

    According to its website, People Incorporated of Virginia offers early head start services to Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell and Washington Counties as well as the City of Bristol.

    People Incorporated lists five head start centers based in Southwest Virginia.

    Last year, Congressman Griffith entered formal remarks in the Congressional Record to celebrate the organization’s 60thanniversary.

    In a recent Health Subcommittee hearing with Congressman Griffith present, HHS Secretary Kennedy noted President Trump’s Budget request recommends Head Start continue to receive funding equal to the FY 2025 enacted level.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Castor, Sen. Luján Introduce Legislation to Expand Access to Affordable, Clean Solar Energy

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Reprepsentative Kathy Castor (FL14)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) introduced legislation to expand a Department of Energy initiative that encourages community solar projects nationwide and increase accessibility to energy produced by lower-cost solar power. The Community Solar Consumer Choice Act of 2025 will increase access to solar energy throughout the Tampa Bay area for all residents, regardless of their income. Sen. Ben Ray Luján (NM) has introduced companion legislation in the U.S. Senate.

    “Clean, affordable energy should be within reach for everyone—especially in Florida, the Sunshine State. Unfortunately, nearly half of all households and businesses can’t install rooftop solar because they rent, share buildings or can’t afford the upfront costs.

    “That’s where community solar comes in. It allows neighbors to share the benefits of nearby solar projects—saving them money on their electric bills without needing solar panels on their own roof.

    “This bill helps expand these initiatives, especially for working families. It supports states and local governments, creates jobs, and helps cut harmful pollution. By boosting access to shared solar energy and investing in storage, each community solar project creates $14 million in local economic investment and over 90 jobs.

    “I’m proud to stand with my Congressional partners and dedicated advocates in fighting for a cleaner, healthier and more affordable energy future for all,” said Rep. Castor.

    “As the climate crisis intensifies and Republican lawmakers push to cut clean energy funding, fighting for practical solutions like community solar is more critical than ever,” said Sen. Luján. “I’m proud to reintroduce the Community Solar Consumer Choice Act to expand access to solar power through community solar projects for all Americans and create more good-paying, clean energy jobs. This bill is a step forward in combating the climate crisis, and I look forward to working with Representative Castor to get this bill passed.”

    A full list of supporting quotes can be found here.

    House Cosponsors: Reps. Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Julia Brownley (CA-26), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Doris Matsui (CA-07), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), and Paul Tonko (NY-21).

    Supporting Organizations: Coalition for Community Solar Access, Evergreen Action, GreenLatinos, League of Conservation Voters, Moms Clean Air Force, Natural Resources Defense Council, New Mexico Climate Investment Center, Sierra Club, Solar Energy Industries Association, WE ACT for Environmental Justice

    View the legislative text here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Secretarial Order Supporting Gateway Communities Issued by the Department of the Interior

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Tom McClintock Representing the 4th District of California

    Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom McClintock lauded the secretarial order signed yesterday by Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, ordering the National Park Service to enhance coordination between the parks and the Gateway communities that rely on them.

    At signing ceremonies at the Department of Interior, McClintock said “Our gateway communities depend on tourism for a large part of their economies.  Many make their livelihoods by making visitor stays as comfortable and enjoyable as humanly possible.  They comprise people who have spent their whole lives in and around Yosemite National Park and know it far better than the park employees who rotate in and out every few years.  And yet, one of the greatest frustrations they have expressed to me is that they feel largely ignored and excluded from decisions that directly affect the park, its visitors, their local businesses and their communities.

    “The secretarial order signed today changes that relationship fundamentally and directs park management to work in close consultation and partnership with the gateway communities.  On behalf of those communities, I cannot thank the Secretary enough for listening to our concerns and acting so decisively on them.”

    McClintock continued, “I am confident that this secretarial order ushers in a new era of cooperation between the park and our local communities.  Secretary Burgum has said that on his future visits, he intends also to meet with the gateway communities to get their candid assessments of management decisions and employee performance at the park and to get their ideas on how to improve hospitality and amenities.  This is a breath of fresh air.”

    The secretarial order includes recognizing gateway communities as key stakeholders in System Unit management and planning and fostering transparent, ongoing communication between System Units and gateway leadership. 

    The order also designates a gateway community coordinator at each System Unit to serve as the primary point of contact for all matters related to State, Tribal, and local government engagement, regional coordination, and community partnership development.

    A copy of the Secretarial order is attached.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Trahan, Bacon Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen Postpartum Care for New Mothers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Lori Trahan (D-MA-03)

    WASHINGTON, DC – On Tuesday, Congresswoman Lori Trahan (D-MA-03), a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee’s Health Subcommittee, and Congressman Don Bacon (R-NE-02) introduced H.R. 4074, the Optimizing Postpartum Outcomes Act. This legislation seeks to improve maternal postpartum health by directing the Secretary of Health and Human Services to issue guidance on the coverage of Pelvic Health Physical Therapy (PHPT) for postpartum mothers under the Medicaid program under title XIX of the Social Security Act.
    “Far too often, women’s postpartum health concerns are overlooked or dismissed, despite the serious and lasting impact they can have on quality of life,” said Congresswoman Trahan. “The Optimizing Postpartum Outcomes Act is a commonsense step toward making Pelvic Health Physical Therapy more accessible for new mothers, especially those who rely on Medicaid. By ensuring that women receive the care and support they need after giving birth, we’re investing in stronger families and healthier communities.”
    “As a husband, father, and grandfather, I recognize the importance of supporting postpartum women,” said Congressman Bacon. “Our care for women should extend to postpartum recovery, to ensure that they are living without pain or discomfort, especially when the therapy available is highly effective.”
    Quality postpartum care for mothers is vital for their long-term health and well-being, and many suffer from pelvic floor dysfunction and diastasis recti abdominis, conditions that can be severely painful. This is treatable with Pelvic Health Physical Therapy, but many women are unaware of the therapy available to them. When working with a Pelvic Health Physical Therapist, women receive a treatment plan to improve muscle control and mobility, aid in tissue repair and recovery from cesarean sections. 
    H.R. 4074 would be a step towards making quality postpartum care available to all women. With approximately three million births in the United States every year, there are three million women who could benefit from Pelvic Health Physical Therapy in their recovery. The bill is supported by health care professionals and physical therapists, including the American Physical Therapy Association.
    “APTA Pelvic Health is proud to continue our collaboration with Congress in advancing the recognition of pelvic health physical therapy for women during both prenatal and postnatal care,” said Kim Parker-Guerrero, PT, DPT, president-elect of the academy. “This important legislation will ensure new mothers have access to the vital education and support needed to engage with pelvic health physical therapy, helping to prevent issues that might arise without early intervention and care.”
    “I’m excited for the reintroduction of the perinatal bill, H.R. 4074,” said Gail Zitterkopf, PT, DPT, government relations chair for APTA Pelvic Health. “This grassroots-inspired bill will positively impact and enhance lives through ensuring pelvic health physical therapy for those who are pregnant.”
    The text of the legislation can be found HERE.
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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Sixth-term Commission on Poverty convenes third meeting (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Sixth-term Commission on Poverty convenes third meeting  
         At the meeting, members were briefed on the progress of preparing the report on the impact of poverty alleviation efforts. The objective of the report is to reflect the substance and impact of the Government’s targeted poverty alleviation strategy, and the effect of the Government’s major livelihood initiatives in empowering those who can help themselves and supporting those who cannot.
     
         Members noted that the Government allocates substantial resources annually on pro-livelihood measures in four macro policy areas, namely education, healthcare, housing, and social welfare and employment services. These measures help individuals with diverse needs who are not able to support themselves and at the same time, foster an enabling environment for people to fulfil their potential by empowering those who can help themselves. The combined effects of these measures are to increase people’s sense of happiness and fulfilment. At the meeting, members offered views on the draft chapter of the Report that covers measures related to social welfare and employment services, as well as public housing. The Government will introduce to CoP the pro-livelihood measures related to education and healthcare policy areas later. The report is expected to be released by mid-2026.
     
         Members also noted the progress and financial position of the assistance programmes funded by the Community Care Fund (CCF). As of the end of March 2025, the CCF endorsed the introduction of 75 assistance programmes. At present, there are 25 ongoing programmes/ programmes to be launched. The Government has regularised 25 CCF programmes, while 25 other programmes have been completed.
    Issued at HKT 19:00

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 15th NG, 12th NGD and 9th NSOG in Hong Kong to receive sponsorship from Hong Kong Jockey Club

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    15th NG, 12th NGD and 9th NSOG in Hong Kong to receive sponsorship from Hong Kong Jockey Club 
    The signing ceremony to announce the HKJC’s support for the 15th NG, the 12th NGD and the 9th NSOG for the Hong Kong competition region was held at the Central Government Offices today. The signing ceremony was witnessed by the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, with the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, and the Chief Executive Officer of the HKJC, Mr Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, representing the Government and the HKJC, respectively.
     
    Speaking at the signing ceremony, Miss Law emphasised that the successful hosting of the 15th NG, the 12th NGD and the 9th NSOG is a major priority for Hong Kong this year. She highlighted that the staunch support and sponsorship from the HKJC would significantly boost event preparations in Hong Kong, particularly in supporting volunteer service programme, territory-wide community and school promotional activities, and initiatives enabling underprivileged groups and youth to attend the events as spectators. She expressed gratitude for the HKJC’s contribution and reaffirmed Hong Kong’s commitment to co-hosting with Guangdong and Macao a simple, safe and wonderful Games.

    Other attending guests included the Chairman of the HKJC, Mr Michael Lee; the Deputy Director-General of the Co-ordination Department for Hong Kong and Macao affairs of the Organising Committee of the 15th NG, Mr Zhang Zhihua; the Permanent Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Ms Vivian Sum, and the Head of the NGCO, Mr Yeung Tak-keung.
     
    The HKJC has been ardently supporting mega sports events hosted by the country, including the 2008 Beijing Olympics, the 2010 Guangzhou Asian Games and the 2022 Hangzhou Asian Games. For the 15th NG, the 12th NGD and the 9th NSOG to be held this year, in addition to the financial support, the HKJC will deploy around 100 members from its volunteer team to provide voluntary services in various areas of the events to be held in the Hong Kong competition region.
     
    The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government looks forward to collaborating with the HKJC to further promote sports development in Hong Kong and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. 
    Issued at HKT 19:00

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: FSD establishes new Building Improvement Support Centres in Wan Chai and Yuen Long (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    FSD establishes new Building Improvement Support Centres in Wan Chai and Yuen Long  
    Members of the public requiring assistance can visit the following BISCs in person or call the hotline on 2272 9112 from 9am to 8pm, Monday to Saturday (except public holidays).- BISC in Kowloon: 3/F, FSD Mong Kok Office Building, 42 Tai Kok Tsui Road, Kowloon
    – BISC in the New Territories: M/F, Yuen Long Fire Station, 2 Fung Kam Street, Yuen Long, New Territories
    Issued at HKT 18:58

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HKMA and AIIB partner to support emerging Asia venture capital (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:
     
    The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) today (June 26) signed a partnership agreement to support venture capital (VC) in emerging Asia, marking a new milestone in deepening the ties and collaboration between the two institutions.

    Under the partnership, the HKMA and the AIIB will collaborate closely to invest in a portfolio of VC funds that prioritise investments across emerging markets in Asia. The HKMA and the AIIB aim to jointly support the development of innovative technologies and business models for green and technology-enabled infrastructure in Asia’s emerging economies, while promoting Hong Kong’s established ecosystem for VCs and innovators across the region.

         The Financial Secretary of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, Mr Paul Chan, said, “Energy transition and infrastructure development of the Global South require substantial financial investment and support from technological applications in various fields. This collaboration combines and leverages the HKMA’s and the AIIB’s knowledge, experience, networks, and strengths. It supports emerging Asian economies in accelerating their development towards more prosperous and inclusive growth through innovation and technology. Additionally, it aids in building a more vibrant venture capital and innovation ecosystem within the region and further reinforces Hong Kong’s status as an international financial, innovation and technology centre.”

         The Chief Executive of the HKMA, Mr Eddie Yue, said, “As a leading innovation technology hub, as well as a green finance hub in Asia, Hong Kong has been a staunch supporter of innovation and sustainable investment. We are pleased to join hands with the AIIB, which enables the HKMA to tap into its extensive expertise and network in sourcing investable opportunities in emerging Asia with a proper risk management and governance framework. We believe this strategic partnership will provide a demonstration effect on the scaling of capital for emerging Asia’s innovators.”

         The President of the AIIB, Mr Jin Liqun, said, “Hong Kong, China is a valued member of the AIIB and has played a pivotal role in the Bank’s growth, including through its leading global financial centre. The strategic partnership with the HKMA further deepens this relationship. By bringing together our respective strengths and expertise, the partnership will help mobilise capital for infrastructure, foster innovation, and accelerate the transition toward a sustainable and prosperous future across Asia.”
     
    About HKMA

    The HKMA is Hong Kong’s central banking institution. The HKMA’s four main functions are: (i) maintaining currency stability within the framework of the Linked Exchange Rate System; (ii) promoting the stability and integrity of the financial system, including the banking system; (iii) helping to maintain Hong Kong’s status as an international financial centre, including the maintenance and development of Hong Kong’s financial infrastructure; and (iv) managing the Exchange Fund.
     
    About AIIB

         The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank is a multilateral development bank dedicated to financing “infrastructure for tomorrow,” with sustainability at its core. The AIIB began operations in 2016, now has 110 approved members worldwide, is capitalised at US$100 billion and is AAA-rated by major international credit rating agencies. The AIIB collaborates with partners to mobilise capital and invest in infrastructure and other productive sectors that foster sustainable economic development and enhance regional connectivity. 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Illegal alien sentenced to 60 months for illegally reentering the United States

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HOUSTON – A 33-year-old Honduran national who resided in Houston has been sentenced for illegally entering the United States, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Denis Hernandez-Cruz pleaded guilty April 11.

    U.S. District Judge Charles R. Eskridge has now ordered Hernandez-Cruz to serve 60 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, he is expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment. In handing down the sentence, the court noted that Hernandez-Cruz needed a substantial sentence to deter him from illegally reentering again.

    Hernandez-Cruz has felony convictions for illegal reentry as well as two convictions for burglary of a habitation. He has three prior removals from the United States, most recently in April 2020.

    He will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

    Immigrations and Customs Enforcement – Enforcement and Removal Operations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony Franklyn prosecuted the case.

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

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Prison Inmates Sentenced for the Death of Fellow Inmate

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    DENVER – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces that Jonathan Guillory, 45, and Anthony Bell, 44, both federal inmates at the U.S. Penitentiary-Florence, Administrative Maximum Facility (ADX) in Florence, Colorado, were sentenced for their roles in the death of a fellow inmate.

    According to the plea agreements, on December 6, 2021, a violent altercation occurred inside a cell at ADX involving Guillory and the victim. During the confrontation, Guillory repeatedly stabbed the victim with a homemade weapon, including a fatal wound to the base of the throat. While the assault unfolded, Bell exited the cell and deliberately held the door shut, preventing the victim from escaping or receiving assistance.

    Guillory was sentenced to 88 months for voluntary manslaughter and Bell was sentenced to 27 months for involuntary manslaughter.

    “This case underscores our unwavering commitment to safety within the federal prison system,” said United States Attorney Peter McNeilly. “Acts of violence, even behind bars, will be met with serious consequences. These defendants now face significant additional time to reflect on the gravity of their actions and the reach of the law.”

    “The FBI does not give felons a free pass to commit crimes because they are already serving federal time,” said FBI Denver Special Agent in Charge Mark Michalek. “Violence behind bars – whether committed against prison staff or fellow inmates – brings consequences, as this case demonstrates.”

    United States District Judge Regina M. Rodriguez sentenced Bell on June 12, 2025, and sentenced Guillory on June 18, 2025.

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution was handled by the Violent Crime and Immigration Enforcement Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

    Case Number: 1:23-cr-00391-RMR 

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Members of Violent ‘21st and Vietnam’ Crew Sentenced for Fentanyl Trafficking, Shooting

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

                WASHINGTON –  Jamiek Bassil, 32, and Charles Manson, 34, of the District of Columbia, were sentenced today in U.S. District Court to 135 months in prison and 175 months, respectively, for their roles in the violent 21st and Vietnam drug trafficking conspiracy that distributed fentanyl, crack cocaine, and other drugs in Northeast Washington, D.C., and elsewhere, and, in Manson’s case, for a March 2024 shooting near 19th and I Streets NE. The sentences were announced by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.

                Bassil, aka “Onion,” pleaded guilty on March 21, 2025, to conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl. In addition to the 135-month prison term, Judge Beryl A. Howell ordered Bassil to serve five years of supervised release.

                Manson, aka “Cheese,” pleaded guilty on March 21, 2025, to multiple counts: conspiracy to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and assault with a dangerous weapon. In addition to the 170-month prison term, Judge Howell ordered Manson to serve five years of supervised release.

                According to court documents, Bassil and Manson were members of the “21st and Vietnam” crew, which controlled an open-air drug market and distributed narcotics in the area of the 2100 block of Maryland Avenue, NE.

                Bassil repeatedly sold significant quantities of fentanyl – as much as roughly 80 grams at a time — to undercover law enforcement between January and March 2024.

                Manson sold narcotics directly to customers and was captured on surveillance video engaging in hand-to-hand drug transactions. During the conspiracy, Manson also participated in multiple controlled drug sales to law enforcement.

                In a March 7, 2024, Manson was the gunman in a shooting. Manson was with several co-conspirators adjacent to an apartment building on the 1900 block of I Street that was the base of the conspiracy’s operations. A person walked by with their dog. Members of the crew had a verbal altercation with the dogwalker. Manson then went into the crew’s stash house in the apartment building. A crew member handed Manson a ski mask. Manson exited the apartment building wearing the mask and armed with a gun. Manson fired several rounds in the direction of the dogwalker. Neither the dogwalker nor the dog were hit.

                On May 15, 2024, investigators arrested Manson at his residence on the 1900 block of I Street, NE. Law enforcement recovered a Glock 17 pistol loaded with 22 rounds of 9mm ammunition. They also recovered a handgun magazine, a box of ammunition, about 50 grams of fentanyl analogue, about 13.88 grams of cocaine, and assorted drug paraphernalia.

                This investigation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

                This investigation was a multi-agency effort between the Violent Crime Investigations Team of the Violent Crime Suppression Division of the Metropolitan Police Department, the FBI Washington Field Office’s Cross-Border Task Force, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Washington Division, the District of Columbia National Guard Counter Drug Program, and the Department of Labor Office of Inspector General. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrea Duvall and Solomon Eppel of the Violent Crime Reduction and Narcotics Trafficking Section.

    24cr226

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Police Officer Sentenced to Prison and 20 Years of Supervised Release for Possessing Child Pornography

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PHOENIX, Ariz. – Samuel Joseph Weimer, 46, of Show Low, Arizona, was sentenced on June 24, 2025, by United States District Judge Diane J. Humetewa, to 42 months in prison, followed by 20 years of supervised release. Weimer previously pleaded guilty to Possessing Child Pornography. 

    Between August and November of 2022, Weimer used a social media chat room to contact an individual he believed to be a father living in Pennsylvania who was willing to provide his 11-year-old daughter for sex. Weimer sent two images and one video of child pornography to this individual. In an interview with law enforcement, Weimer admitted to possessing and sending the pornographic files. At the time of the offense, Weimer was employed as a police officer with the Show Low Police Department.

    “Police officers swear an oath to uphold the law and protect our citizens” said U.S. Attorney Timothy Courchaine. “This makes Mr. Weimer’s possession of child pornography even more appalling. Child pornography humiliates and degrades our most vulnerable members of society and will never be tolerated.”

    “The conduct of this former police officer was beyond shocking and a gross betrayal of public trust,” said FBI Phoenix Special Agent in Charge Heith Janke. “When someone in a position of authority commits such a revolting crime, the damage extends beyond the youthful victims— it shakes the very foundation of our communities’ trust. No matter their badge or title, the FBI will always aggressively pursue cases like this one.”

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    The FBI’s Phoenix Field Office conducted the investigation in this case. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Phoenix, handled the prosecution.

    CASE NUMBER:           CR-24-08089-PCT-DJH
    RELEASE NUMBER:    2025-100_Weimer

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    For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/

    Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Columbian National Indicted, Accused of Assaulting Officer

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ST. LOUIS – A man from Columbia was indicted Wednesday and accused of assaulting an officer with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

    Yefferson Josue Pinzon Suarez, 31, was indicted by a grand jury in U.S. District Court in St. Louis with one felony count of assaulting a federal employee.

    In March, an immigration judge ordered Pinzon Suarez removed from the country, according to a motion to have Pinzon Suarez held in jail until trial. On June 20, he was picked up from the St. Louis County Jail, where he was serving a sentence. After being taken to the Robert A. Young Federal Building in downtown St. Louis, Pinzon Suarez refused to cooperate during fingerprinting. Pinzon Suarez bit a deportation officer’s forearm and hit him in the chest, the motion says.

    Pinzon Suarez had been living in Maryland Heights.

    A charge set forth in an indictment is merely accusations and do not constitute proof of guilt.  Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    Immigrations and Customs Enforcement’s Department of Homeland Security investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Colleen Lang is prosecuting the case.

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

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