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  • MIL-OSI Economics: An energy solution made in Saskatchewan

    Source: – Press Release/Statement:

    Headline: An energy solution made in Saskatchewan

    Saskatchewan should recommit to its plan to procure 3,000 MW of abundant, affordable wind and solar energy by 2035.

    Regina, June 23, 2025—The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) is concerned that the Government of Saskatchewan’s plans to extend the lifecycle of their coal-generation plants, as signalled on June 18, will have an impact on future renewable energy plans in the province.

    CanREA encourages the government, in its effort to protect Saskatchewan jobs and utilize Saskatchewan resources, to recommit to its 2022 commitments to procure 3,000 MW of wind and solar by 2035, as part of an energy vision that leverages wind energy, solar energy and energy storage technologies.

    “Saskatchewan has world-class wind and solar resources—among the best in Canada—and it makes sense to tap into these abundant, affordable, renewable sources of energy,” said Kelly Hall, CanREA’s Director for Saskatchewan and Indigenous Engagement.

    The 3,000 MW target will support five key priorities: affordability, Indigenous Reconciliation, economic development, effective project siting and engagement, and long-term energy security. These priorities have been cited to justify extending coal power production, but they’re even stronger reasons to accelerate the shift to renewables.

    Affordability

    Renewables with storage are the most cost-effective and rapidly deployable new energy sources, according to financial services firm Lazard.

    For example, on May 1, 2025, SaskPower announced long-term (25-30 year) PPAs for the 200 MW Rose Valley Wind Project, east of Assiniboia, and the 100 MW Southern Springs Solar Project, south of Coronach. While contract prices remain confidential, SaskPower President Rupen Pandya disclosed average bid prices of $64/MWh for wind and $90/MWh for solar—both well below SaskPower’s current retail rate of $150/MWh.

    These prices align with 2018 results, when Potentia Renewables won a PPA for the Golden South Wind facility at $42/MWh for 29 wind bids. Now operational, that project delivers affordable electricity to the grid, as do all Saskatchewan’s 920 MW of wind and solar projects.

    Renewables help keep costs low for all ratepayers, and Saskatchewan deserves more success stories like these.

    Indigenous Reconciliation

    Wind and solar are well suited to Indigenous equity partnerships, which will advance economic reconciliation in Saskatchewan. Equity partnerships benefit Indigenous communities, ratepayers and the electricity system.

    For example, SaskPower recently selected renewable energy projects jointly owned by Potentia Renewables, Meadow Lake Tribal Council and Mistawasis Nehiyawak. These majority Indigenous-owned ventures continue Saskatchewan’s tradition of Indigenous leadership in renewables.

    With a commitment to Indigenous equity in all future RFPs, the 3,000 MW renewables plan can expand on past success.

    Economic development & job opportunities 

    Renewables bring billions in investment and create jobs. At the May 1 SaskPower announcement, Potentia Renewables said the Rose Valley Wind Project will cost nearly $450 million; the solar project, about $185 million.

    Based on current projects, a typical 200 MW wind project creates 200 to 300 construction jobs, invests more than $400 million locally, and generates more than $1 million annually in property taxes and landowner payments.

    Saskatchewan’s 3,000 MW renewables plan could mean 4,500 to 6,000 jobs, $5 to 6 billion in rural investment, and tens of millions annually for local landowners and municipalities. Investing in renewables is investing in rural Saskatchewan.

    Project siting and community engagement

    Communities across the province expect thoughtful project siting and responsive public engagement. Fortunately, new wind and solar projects require local landowner agreements, are designed to co-exist with agriculture and deliver direct benefits to host municipalities. 

    Responsible development is already a standard practice in the renewables sector and among CanREA members.

    Energy security

    In uncertain times, energy security is a valid concern. Saskatchewan can count on its outstanding wind and solar resources to reduce its reliance on imported fuels and protect itself from cross-border risks.

    New wind and solar projects can give Saskatchewan control over its grid, without worrying that another jurisdiction might turn off the tap.

    It makes sense for the province to invest in its own abundant, affordable resources. Recommitting to the plan of 3,000 MW of renewable energy by 2035 will support energy security, protect local jobs, maintain affordability, and promote Indigenous Reconciliation, all in harmony with landowner and community needs.

    “It’s an energy solution that’s made in Saskatchewan,” said Hall.

    Quote

    “Saskatchewan has world-class wind and solar resources—among the best in Canada—and it makes sense to tap into these abundant, affordable, renewable sources of energy. It’s an energy solution that’s made in Saskatchewan.”
     —Kelly Hall, Director for Saskatchewan and Manitoba, and for Indigenous Engagement, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA)

    For media inquiries or interview opportunities, please contact: 

    Communications Canadian Renewable Energy Association communications@renewablesassociation.ca 

    About CanREA

    The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) is the voice for wind energy, solar energy and energy storage solutions that will power Canada’s energy future. We work to create the conditions for a modern energy system through stakeholder advocacy and public engagement. Our diverse members are uniquely positioned to deliver clean, low-cost, reliable, flexible and scalable solutions for Canada’s energy needs. For more information on how Canada can use wind energy, solar energy and energy storage to help achieve its net-zero commitments, consult “Powering Canada’s Journey to Net-Zero: CanREA’s 2050 Vision.” Follow us on Bluesky and LinkedIn here. Learn more at renewablesassociation.ca. 
    The post An energy solution made in Saskatchewan appeared first on Canadian Renewable Energy Association.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Panels established to review Canadian surtaxes, Chinese duties on farm and fish products

    Source: World Trade Organization

    DS627: Canada — Measures on Certain Products of Chinese Origin

    China submitted its second request for the establishment of a dispute panel with respect to the surtax measures imposed by Canada on certain products of Chinese origin, including electric vehicles and steel and aluminium products. Canada had said it was not ready to accept China’s first request for the panel at a DSB meeting on 23 May.

    China said it considers Canada’s measures inconsistent with provisions of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT). It added that it was open to constructive discussions and remains committed to resolving the dispute.

    It is unfortunate that China has included in its panel request claims related to certain solar products, critical minerals, semiconductors, permanent magnets and natural graphite imported from China, Canada said, noting that there are no Canadian surtax measures on these products. China has therefore failed to identify the specific measures at issue as required under the Dispute Settlement Understanding (DSU), Canada said.

    Canada said its surtax measures on electric vehicles and steel and aluminium products are justified under the GATT and that it was fully prepared to defend these measures. Canada remains committed to maintaining constructive dialogue with China even as the dispute moves to the panel stage, it added.

    The United States said that China responded to the surtaxes by imposing countermeasures in the form of additional duties on Canadian agricultural and fishery products.

    The DSB agreed to the establishment of the panel. 

    Australia, the European Union, India, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Malaysia, Norway, the Russian Federation, Singapore, Switzerland, Türkiye, the United Kingdom, Ukraine and the United States reserved their third-party rights to participate in the proceedings.

    DS636: China — Additional Import Duties on Certain Agricultural and Fishery Products from Canada

    Canada submitted its second request for the establishment of a dispute panel with respect to the additional import duties imposed by China on certain Canadian agricultural and fisheries products. China had said it was not ready to accept Canada’s first request for the panel at a special DSB meeting on 5 June.

    Canada said the import duties imposed by China represented a unilateral determination and trade countermeasures contrary to WTO rules. Canada moreover said that as the dispute concerns perishable goods, the case should be treated as urgent as provided by the DSU. Canada remains committed to maintaining constructive dialogue with China even as the dispute moves to the panel stage, it added.

    China replied that it regretted Canada’s decision to seek the establishment of a panel and opposed Canada’s claim that DSU provisions on urgency apply to this case. China said it will defend itself in the proceedings and is confident that its measures will be found consistent with WTO rules. It added that it remained open to engagement with Canada.

    The United States reiterated that the measures at issue are countermeasures imposed by China in response to Canadian measures China is challenging in DS627.

    The DSB agreed to the establishment of the panel. 

    Australia, the European Union, India, Japan, Norway, the Russian Federation, Singapore, Switzerland, Türkiye, the United Kingdom, the United States and Viet Nam reserved their third-party rights to participate in the proceedings.

    Appellate Body appointments

    Colombia, speaking on behalf of 130 members, introduced for the 88th time the group’s proposal to start the selection processes for filling vacancies on the Appellate Body. The extensive number of members submitting the proposal reflects a common interest in the functioning of the Appellate Body and, more generally, in the functioning of the WTO’s dispute settlement system, Colombia said.

    The United States said it does not support the proposed decision and noted its longstanding concerns with WTO dispute settlement that have persisted across US administrations. The United States emphasized that the dispute settlement process was meant to help members resolve specific disputes without creating new rules that alter rights and obligations under the covered WTO agreements. The US reiterated that fundamental reform of WTO dispute settlement is needed and that it will reflect on the extent to which it is possible to achieve such a reformed WTO dispute settlement system.

    More than 20 members took the floor to comment, one speaking on behalf of a group of members. Several members urged others to consider joining the Multi-party interim appeal arrangement (MPIA), a contingent measure to safeguard the right to appeal in the absence of a functioning Appellate Body. 

    Colombia, on behalf of the 130 members, said it regretted that for the 88th occasion members have not been able to launch the selection processes. Ongoing conversations about reform of the dispute settlement system should not prevent the Appellate Body from continuing to operate fully, and members shall comply with their obligation under the Dispute Settlement Understanding to fill the vacancies as they arise, Colombia said for the group.

    Dispute settlement reform

    The DSB Chair, Ambassador Clare Kelly (New Zealand), said that the General Council (GC) Chair Ambassador Saqer Abdullah Almoqbel (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia) had informed members in a 6 June communication that, regarding dispute settlement reform, his consultations have confirmed readiness to preserve and build on the progress already made, and to advance only when the time is ripe to make meaningful progress on key unresolved issues with the engagement of all delegations.

    The GC Chair also indicated that both the DSB Chair and the GC Chair will be closely monitoring the situation and will revert to members at the appropriate time. The DSB chair added that her door is open to delegations wishing to further discuss the matter.

    Surveillance of implementation

    The United States presented status reports with regard to DS184, “US — Anti-Dumping Measures on Certain Hot-Rolled Steel Products from Japan”,  DS160, “United States — Section 110(5) of US Copyright Act”, DS464, “United States — Anti-Dumping and Countervailing Measures on Large Residential Washers from Korea”, and DS471, “United States — Certain Methodologies and their Application to Anti-Dumping Proceedings Involving China.”

    The European Union presented a status report with regard to DS291, “EC — Measures Affecting the Approval and Marketing of Biotech Products.”

    Indonesia presented its status reports in DS477 and DS478, “Indonesia — Importation of Horticultural Products, Animals and Animal Products.” 

    Next meeting

    The next regular DSB meeting will take place on 25 July 2025.

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    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Verizon announces final results of its private exchange offers for 10 series of notes and related tender offers

    Source: Verizon

    Headline: Verizon announces final results of its private exchange offers for 10 series of notes and related tender offers

    NEW YORK, N.Y. –  Verizon Communications Inc. (“Verizon”) (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) today announced the final results of its Exchange Offers (as defined below) and its Cash Offers (as defined below).

    Exchange Offers

    The first transaction consists of 10 separate private offers to exchange (the “Exchange Offers”) any and all of the outstanding series of notes listed in the table below (as used in the context of the Exchange Offers and the Cash Offers (as defined below), collectively the “Old Notes”) in exchange for newly issued 5.401% Notes due 2037 of Verizon (the “New Notes”), on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Offering Memorandum dated June 12, 2025 (the “Offering Memorandum”), the eligibility letter (the “Eligibility Letter”) and the accompanying exchange offer notice of guaranteed delivery (the “Exchange Offer Notice of Guaranteed Delivery” which, together with the Offering Memorandum and the Eligibility Letter, constitute the “Exchange Offer Documents”).

    The Exchange Offers expired at 5:00 p.m. (Eastern time) on June 18, 2025 (the “Exchange Offer Expiration Date”). The “Exchange Offer Settlement Date” with respect to the Exchange Offers will be promptly following the Exchange Offer Expiration Date and is expected to be June 25, 2025. In addition to the applicable Total Exchange Price (as defined in the Offering Memorandum), Exchange Offer Eligible Holders (as defined below) whose Old Notes are accepted for exchange will receive a cash payment equal to the accrued and unpaid interest on such Old Notes from and including the immediately preceding interest payment date for such Old Notes to, but excluding, the Exchange Offer Settlement Date. Interest will cease to accrue on the Exchange Offer Settlement Date for all Old Notes accepted, including those tendered through the Guaranteed Delivery Procedures (as defined in the Offering Memorandum).

    Unless otherwise defined herein, capitalized terms used under the heading Exchange Offers have the respective meanings assigned thereto in the Exchange Offer Documents.

    The table below indicates, among other things, the aggregate principal amount of each series of Old Notes that Verizon is accepting in connection with Verizon’s offer to exchange any and all of its outstanding notes listed below for New Notes:

    Acceptance Priority Level(1)

    Title of Security

    CUSIP
    Number(s)

    Principal Amount Outstanding

    Principal Amount Tendered for Exchange by the Expiration Date and Accepted(2)

    1

    1.450% Notes due 2026

    92343VGG3

    $838,579,000

    $1,689,000

    2

    Floating Rate Notes due 2026

    92343VGE8

    $212,932,000

    $4,987,000

    3

    4.125% Notes due 2027

    92343VDY7

    $2,903,541,000

    $316,360,000

    4

    3.000% Notes due 2027

    92343VFF6

    $569,992,000

    $66,073,000

    5

    4.329% Notes due 2028

    92343VER1/

    92343VEQ3/

    U9221ABK3

    $3,640,515,000

    $722,436,000

    6

    2.100% Notes due 2028

    92343VGH1

    $2,139,693,000

    –

    7

    4.016% Notes due 2029

    92343VEU4/

    92343VET7/

    U9221ABL1

    $4,000,000,000

    $523,460,000

    8

    3.150% Notes due 2030

    92343VFE9

    $1,464,080,000

    $266,808,000

    9

    1.680% Notes due 2030

    92343VFX7/

    92343VFN9/

    U9221ABS6

    $1,098,195,000

    $270,138,000

    10

    7.750% Notes due 2030

    92344GAM8/

    92344GAC0

    $562,561,000

    $30,303,000

    (1) Subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the conditions of the Exchange Offers described in the Offering Memorandum, if the New Notes Capacity Condition (as defined if the Offering Memorandum) and/or the corresponding Cash Offer Completion Condition (as defined if the Offering Memorandum) is not satisfied with respect to every series of Old Notes, Verizon will accept Old Notes for exchange in the order of their respective Acceptance Priority Level specified in the table above (as used in the context of the Exchange Offers and the Cash Offers, each an “Acceptance Priority Level,” with 1 being the highest Acceptance Priority Level and 10 being the lowest Acceptance Priority Level). It is possible that a series of Old Notes with a particular Acceptance Priority Level will not be accepted for exchange even if one or more series with a higher or lower Acceptance Priority Level are accepted for purchase.

    (2) The principal amounts accepted as reflected in the table above are subject to change due to Old Notes that may be validly tendered pursuant to Guaranteed Delivery Procedures and not validly withdrawn prior to the guaranteed delivery date and accepted for exchange.

    Verizon is offering to accept for exchange validly tendered Old Notes using a “waterfall” methodology under which such Old Notes of different series will be accepted in the order of their respective Acceptance Priority Levels as listed in the table above, subject to a $2.5 billion cap on the maximum aggregate principal amount of New Notes that Verizon will issue in all of the Exchange Offers (the “New Notes Maximum Amount”). However, subject to applicable law, Verizon, in its sole discretion, has the option to waive or increase the New Notes Maximum Amount at any time.

    On the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Offering Memorandum, including the Cash Offer Completion Condition, Verizon is accepting for exchange all of the Old Notes validly tendered, including Old Notes for which Verizon received an Exchange Offer Notice of Guaranteed Delivery and that are delivered on or prior to the Guaranteed Delivery Date, of each series of Old Notes with Acceptance Priority Levels 1 through 5 and 7 through 10 (as used in the context of the Exchange Offers and the Cash Offers, the “Covered Notes”).  As described further below in relation to the Cash Offers, the purchase of all Old Notes of the series with Acceptance Priority Level 6 (as used in the context of the Exchange Offers and the Cash Offers, the “Non-Covered Notes”) tendered for purchase would cause Verizon to breach the Maximum Total Consideration Condition (as defined in the Offer to Purchase, and as increased as described below), and, accordingly, Verizon is rejecting the Non-Covered Notes from the applicable Cash Offer and the Cash Offer Completion Condition with respect to the Non-Covered Notes will not be satisfied. Because the Cash Offer Completion Condition will not be satisfied, Verizon is rejecting exchanges of Non-Covered Notes, including Non-Covered Notes for which Verizon received an Exchange Offers Notice of Guaranteed Delivery. Non-Covered Notes will be returned or credited without expense to the holders’ accounts promptly after the Expiration Date. The aggregate principal amount of Covered Notes that will be exchanged by Verizon on the Settlement Date is subject to change based on deliveries of Covered Notes pursuant to the Guaranteed Delivery Procedures described in the Offering Memorandum.

    On the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Offering Memorandum, Verizon expects to issue approximately $2.2 billion aggregate principal amount of New Notes due 2037 and, as such, Verizon considers the Minimum Issue Requirement (as defined in the Offering Memorandum) satisfied. Verizon will not receive any cash proceeds from the Exchange Offers. The actual aggregate principal amount of New Notes that will be issued on the Exchange Offer Settlement Date is subject to change, based on the amount of Old Notes delivered pursuant to the Guaranteed Delivery Procedures and satisfaction or waiver of the conditions set forth in the Offering Memorandum, including the Cash Offer Completion Condition.

    Verizon today announced that the New Notes Capacity Condition, as well as certain customary conditions to the Exchange Offers, including the absence of certain adverse legal and market developments, have been satisfied with respect to each series of Old Notes, and the Cash Offer Completion Condition (as defined in the Offering Memorandum) has been satisfied for each series of Covered Notes.

    If and when issued, the New Notes will not be registered under the Securities Act or any state securities laws. Therefore, the New Notes may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act and any applicable state securities laws. Verizon will enter into a registration rights agreement with respect to the New Notes.

    Only a holder who had duly completed and returned an Eligibility Letter certifying that it was either (1) a “qualified institutional buyer” (as defined in Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”)); or (2) a person located outside the United States who is (i) not a “U.S. person” (as defined in Rule 902 under the Securities Act), (ii) not acting for the account or benefit of a U.S. person and (iii) a “Non-U.S. qualified offeree” (as defined below), was authorized to receive the Offering Memorandum and to participate in the Exchange Offers (such holders, “Exchange Offer Eligible Holders”).

    Global Bondholder Services Corporation is acting as the Information Agent and the Exchange Agent for the Exchange Offers. Questions or requests for assistance related to the Exchange Offers or for additional copies of the Exchange Offer Documents may be directed to Global Bondholder Services Corporation at (212) 430-3774.You may also contact your broker, dealer, commercial bank, trust company or other nominee for assistance concerning the Exchange Offers. The Exchange Offer Documents can be accessed at the following link: https://gbsc-usa.com/eligibility/verizon.

    Cash Offers

    The second transaction consists of 10 separate offers to purchase for cash (the “Cash Offers”) any and all of each series of Old Notes, on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Offer to Purchase dated June 12, 2025 (the “Offer to Purchase”), the certification instructions letter (the “Certification Instructions Letter”) and the accompanying cash offer notice of guaranteed delivery (the “Cash Offer Notice of Guaranteed Delivery” which, together with the Offer to Purchase and the Certification Instructions Letter, constitute the “Tender Offer Documents”).

    The Cash Offers expired at 5:00 p.m. (Eastern time) on June 18, 2025 (the “Cash Offer Expiration Date”). The “Cash Offer Settlement Date” with respect to the Cash Offers will be promptly following the Cash Offer Expiration Date and is expected to be June 25, 2025.

    Unless otherwise defined herein, capitalized terms used under the heading Cash Offers have the respective meanings assigned thereto in the Tender Offer Documents.

    The table below indicates, among other things, the aggregate principal amount of each series of Old Notes that Verizon is accepting in connection with Verizon’s offer to purchase any and all of its outstanding notes listed below:

    Acceptance Priority Level(1)

    Title of Security

    CUSIP
    Number(s)

    Principal Amount Outstanding

    Principal Amount Tendered for Purchase by the Expiration Date and Accepted(2)

    1

    1.450% Notes due 2026

    92343VGG3

    $838,579,000

    $11,059,000

    2

    Floating Rate Notes due 2026

    92343VGE8

    $212,932,000

    $2,287,000

    3

    4.125% Notes due 2027

    92343VDY7

    $2,903,541,000

    $160,011,000

    4

    3.000% Notes due 2027

    92343VFF6

    $569,992,000

    $25,913,000

    5

    4.329% Notes due 2028

    92343VER1/

    92343VEQ3/

    U9221ABK3

    $3,640,515,000

    $126,677,000

    6

    2.100% Notes due 2028

    92343VGH1

    $2,139,693,000

    –

    7

    4.016% Notes due 2029

    92343VEU4/

    92343VET7/

    U9221ABL1

    $4,000,000,000

    $106,476,000

    8

    3.150% Notes due 2030

    92343VFE9

    $1,464,080,000

    $42,536,000

    9

    1.680% Notes due 2030

    92343VFX7/

    92343VFN9/

    U9221ABS6

    $1,098,195,000

    $24,930,000

    10

    7.750% Notes due 2030

    92344GAM8/

    92344GAC0

    $562,561,000

    $2,818,000

    (1) Subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the conditions of the Cash Offers described in the Offer to Purchase, including if the Maximum Total Consideration Condition (as defined in the Offer to Purchase) is not satisfied with respect to every series of Old Notes, Verizon will accept Notes for purchase in the order of their respective Acceptance Priority Level specified in the table above. It is possible that a series of Old Notes with a particular Acceptance Priority Level will not be accepted for purchase even if one or more series with a higher or lower Acceptance Priority Level are accepted for purchase.

    (2) The principal amounts accepted as reflected in the table above are subject to change due to Old Notes that may be validly tendered pursuant to Guaranteed Delivery Procedures and not validly withdrawn prior to the guaranteed delivery date and accepted for purchase.

    Verizon is offering to purchase validly tendered Old Notes using a “waterfall” methodology under which such Old Notes of different series will be accepted in the order of their respective Acceptance Priority Levels as listed in the table above, subject to the Maximum Total Consideration Condition and the Exchange Offer Completion Condition (each as defined in the Offer to Purchase). However, subject to applicable law, Verizon, in its sole discretion, has the option to waive or increase the Maximum Total Consideration Condition at any time.

    Verizon has increased the Maximum Total Consideration Condition to the Cash Offers and, accordingly, the maximum aggregate amount of cash that Verizon will use to purchase all validly tendered, and not validly withdrawn, Old Notes in the Cash Offers (the “Maximum Total Consideration Amount,” as described in the Offer to Purchase) will be increased from $300 million to $500 million, which is an amount sufficient to allow Verizon to purchase all Covered Notes validly tendered, and not validly withdrawn, at or prior to the Cash Offer Expiration Date.

    On the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Offer to Purchase, Verizon is accepting for purchase all of the Old Notes validly tendered, including Old Notes for which Verizon received a Cash Offer Notice of Guaranteed Delivery and that are delivered on or prior to the Guaranteed Delivery Date, for each series of Covered Notes. Because the purchase of all Non-Covered Notes validly tendered in the Cash Offer would cause Verizon to breach the Maximum Total Consideration Condition (as increased as described above), Verizon is rejecting tenders of Non-Covered Notes, including Old Notes for which Verizon received a Cash Offer Notice of Guaranteed Delivery. Non-Covered Notes will be returned or credited without expense to the holders’ accounts promptly after the Expiration Date. The aggregate principal amount of Covered Notes that will be purchased by Verizon on the Settlement Date is subject to change based on deliveries of Covered Notes pursuant to the Guaranteed Delivery Procedures described in the Offer to Purchase.

    In addition to the applicable Total Consideration (as defined in the Offer to Purchase), Cash Offer Eligible Holders (as defined below) whose Old Notes are accepted for purchase will be paid accrued and unpaid interest on such Old Notes from and including the immediately preceding interest payment date for such Old Notes to, but excluding, the Cash Offer Settlement Date. Interest will cease to accrue on the Cash Offer Settlement Date for all Old Notes accepted in the Cash Offers, including those Old Notes tendered through the Guaranteed Delivery Procedures.

    Verizon today announced that the Exchange Offer Completion Condition has been satisfied for each series of Covered Notes and, except as noted in this release, all other conditions to the Cash Offers described in the Offer to Purchase, including the absence of certain adverse legal and market developments, have been satisfied with respect to each series of Old Notes.

    Only holders who were not Exchange Offer Eligible Holders (“Cash Offer Eligible Holders”) were eligible to participate in the Cash Offers. Holders of Old Notes participating in the Cash Offers were required to complete the Certification Instructions Letter and certify that they are Cash Offer Eligible Holders.

    Global Bondholder Services Corporation is acting as the Information Agent and the Tender Agent for the Cash Offers. Questions or requests for assistance related to the Cash Offers or for additional copies of the Tender Offer Documents may be directed to Global Bondholder Services Corporation at (212) 430-3774. You may also contact your broker, dealer, commercial bank, trust company or other nominee for assistance concerning the Cash Offers. The Tender Offer Documents can be accessed at the following link: https://www.gbsc-usa.com/verizon.

    Verizon refers to the Exchange Offers and the Cash Offers, collectively, as the “Offers.”

    Verizon retained Barclays Capital Inc, Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC, J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, RBC Capital Markets, LLC to act as lead dealer managers for the Offers and Scotia Capital (USA) Inc., Truist Securities, Inc. and U.S. Bancorp Investments, Inc. to act as co-dealer managers for the Offers.

    This announcement is for informational purposes only. This announcement is not an offer to purchase or a solicitation of an offer to purchase any Old Notes. The Exchange Offers are being made solely pursuant to the Offering Memorandum and related documents and the Cash Offers are being made solely pursuant to the Offer to Purchase and related documents. The Offers are not being made to holders of Old Notes in any jurisdiction in which the making or acceptance thereof would not be in compliance with the securities, blue sky or other laws of such jurisdiction. In any jurisdiction in which the securities laws or blue sky laws require the Offers to be made by a licensed broker or dealer, the Offers will be deemed to be made on behalf of Verizon by the dealer managers or one or more registered brokers or dealers that are licensed under the laws of such jurisdiction.

    This communication and any other documents or materials relating to the Exchange Offers have not been approved by an authorized person for the purposes of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000, as amended (the “FSMA”). Accordingly, this announcement is not being distributed to, and must not be passed on to, persons within the United Kingdom save in circumstances where section 21(1) of the FSMA does not apply. Accordingly, this communication is only addressed to and directed at persons who are outside the United Kingdom and (i) persons falling within the definition of investment professionals (as defined in Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (the “Financial Promotion Order”)), or (ii) within Article 43 of the Financial Promotion Order, or (iii) high net worth companies and other persons to whom it may lawfully be communicated falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Financial Promotion Order, or (iv) to whom an invitation or inducement to engage in investment activity (within the meaning of Section 21 of the FSMA) in connection with the issue or sale of any securities may otherwise lawfully be communicated or caused to be communicated (such persons together being “relevant persons”). The New Notes are only available to, and any invitation, offer or agreement to subscribe, purchase or otherwise acquire such New Notes will be engaged in only with, relevant persons. Any person who is not a relevant person should not act or rely on any document relating to the Exchange Offers or any of their contents.

    This communication and any other documents or materials relating to the Exchange Offer are only addressed to and directed at persons in member states of the European Economic Area (the “EEA”), who are “Qualified Investors” within the meaning of Article 2(e) of Regulation (EU) 2017/1129. The New Notes are only available to, and any invitation, offer or agreement to subscribe, purchase or otherwise acquire such New Notes, will be engaged in only with, Qualified Investors. The Exchange Offer is only available to Qualified Investors. None of the information in the Offering Memorandum and any other documents and materials relating to the Exchange Offer should be acted upon or relied upon in any member state of the EEA by persons who are not Qualified Investors.

    “Non-U.S. qualified offeree” means:

    (i)       in relation to any investor in the European Economic Area (the “EEA”), a qualified investor as defined in Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 (as amended or superseded) that is not a retail investor. For these purposes, a retail investor means a person who is one (or more) of: (a) a retail client as defined in point (11) of Article 4(1) of Directive 2014/65/EU (as amended, “MiFID II”); or (b) a customer within the meaning of Directive (EU) 2016/97, where that customer would not qualify as a professional client as defined in point (10) of Article 4(1) of MiFID II;

    (ii)      in relation to any investor in the United Kingdom, a qualified investor as defined in Article 2 of Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 as it forms part of domestic law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018 that is not a retail investor and that (a) has professional experience in matters relating to investments and qualifies as an investment professional within the meaning of Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (as amended, the “Financial Promotion Order”), (b) is a person falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) (“high net worth companies, unincorporated associations etc.”) of the Financial Promotion Order, or (c) is a person to whom an invitation or inducement to engage in investment activity (within the meaning of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000, as amended (the “FSMA”)) in connection with the issue or sale of any notes may otherwise lawfully be communicated or caused to be communicated (all such persons together being referred to as “relevant persons”). For these purposes, a retail investor means a person who is one (or more) of: (x) a retail client, as defined in point (8) of Article 2 of Regulation (EU) No 2017/565 as it forms part of domestic law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018 (“EUWA”); or (y) a customer within the meaning of the provisions of the FSMA and any rules or regulations made under the FSMA to implement Directive (EU) 2016/97, where that customer would not qualify as a professional client, as defined in point (8) of Article 2(1) of Regulation (EU) No 600/2014 as it forms part of domestic law by virtue of the EUWA; or

    (iii)      any entity outside the U.S., the EEA and the United Kingdom to whom the Exchange Offer may be made in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations of any applicable jurisdiction without registration of the Exchange Offer or any related filing or approval.

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    In this communication Verizon has made forward-looking statements, including regarding the conduct and completion of the Offers. These forward-looking statements are not historical facts, but only predictions and generally can be identified by use of statements that include phrases such as “will,” “may,” “should,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “assume,” “believe,” “expect,” “plan,” “appear,” “project,” “estimate,” “hope,” “intend,” “target,” “forecast,” or other words or phrases of similar import. Similarly, statements that describe our objectives, plans or goals also are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those currently anticipated, including those discussed in the Offering Memorandum and Offer to Purchase under the heading “Risk Factors” and under similar headings in other documents that are incorporated by reference in the Offering Memorandum and Offer to Purchase. Holders are urged to consider these risks and uncertainties carefully in evaluating the forward-looking statements and are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements included in this press release are made only as of the date of this press release, and Verizon undertakes no obligation to update publicly these forward-looking statements to reflect new information, future events or otherwise. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the forward-looking events might or might not occur. Verizon cannot assure you that projected results or events will be achieved.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Amnesty International UK’s response to Home Secretary’s announcement that Palestine Action will be proscribed a terrorist organisation

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Sacha Deshmukh, Amnesty International UK Chief Executive said: 

    “Amnesty International is seriously concerned by the Home Secretary’s announcement that she intends to proscribe Palestine Action as a terrorist organisation. The UK has an overly broad definition of terrorism and proscribing a direct-action protest group like Palestine Action risks an unlawful interference with the fundamental rights of freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly.

    “Terrorism legislation must always be treated with the highest degree of caution and restraint, as it allows the state to curtail due process and interfere with other human rights in ways that would violate international human rights law. Given the enormous consequences of proscription, such an interference with fundamental rights will only be lawful when it is provided by a clear law and is strictly necessary and proportionate in the sense that it is the only step capable of securing a legitimate aim.

    “Clearly that is not the case when it comes to Palestine Action; the ordinary criminal law, accompanied by appropriate human rights protections, is more than capable of responding to direct action protesters of their kind. It should be remembered that proscribing Palestine Action not only makes membership of the organisation a criminal offence, through broadly worded speech offences such as ‘glorification’ it puts at risk the free speech rights of many other activists who are deeply concerned about the plight of Palestinians in the context of Israel’s ongoing genocide in Gaza.

    “Government embarrassment at security breaches is no proper basis for excessive and disproportionate interferences with human rights. It is precisely this kind of unlawful government action that critics of the UK’s terrorism laws warned would come one day.”   

    View latest press releases

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: EU/Israel: ‘Timid’ review of EU-Israel Association Agreement a ‘greenlight to Israel’s genocide’

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Responding to the European Commission’s review of the EU-Israel Association Agreement which found ‘indications’ that Israel is breaching its human rights obligations, Eve Geddie the Director of Amnesty International’s European Institutions Office said:

    “Despite its timid wording, the European Commission finally states the obvious: Israel is breaching its human rights obligations under the Agreement. This is an indisputable fact that Amnesty International, international courts, UN bodies, independent experts, prominent Palestinian, Israeli and international NGOs, scholars, commentators and former diplomats have been saying for years.

    “It is unforgivable that it took the EU so long to launch this review and disturbing to see the EU fail to set out any measures it plans to take against Israel. Every day the EU delays meaningful action, is a greenlight for Israel to continue its genocide in the Gaza Strip and unlawful occupation of the whole Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT).

    “The EU and its member states have an obligation to ban trade and investment that could contribute to Israel’s genocide against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and other grave violations of international law, including the crime against humanity of apartheid against all Palestinians whose rights it controls.

    “Now that they have determined there are ‘indications’ that Israel is breaching human rights, there is no excuse for inaction or delays. Every deal that EU member states do with Israel in the meantime, leaves them at risk of being complicit in Israel’s grave violations of international law, including genocide.

    “Member states in favour of suspending the agreement must use all their diplomatic weight to ensure that opponents of the suspension, including Germany, fully understand the risk of complicity and the cruel toll on Palestinian lives of continued EU inaction. If the EU fails to live up to these obligations as a bloc, and seeks to shield itself from its clear legal obligations, its member states must unilaterally suspend all forms of cooperation that may contribute to violations of international law.”

    Background

    On 23 June 2025, the European Commission presented its review of the EU-Israel Association Agreement to EU foreign ministers. The review found ‘indications’ that Israel is breaching its human rights obligations but did not present any measures for the EU to take in response.

    Amnesty International has long called for a thorough, comprehensive, and credible review the Association Agreement in line with EU member states’ obligations to prevent trade and investment that contributes to maintaining Israel’s unlawful occupation of the OPT, as set out by the International Court of Justice’s Advisory Opinion of 19 July 2024 and obligations not to render aid or assistance to the commission of crimes under international law.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: New NATO defence commitments must not come at cost of human rights

    Source: Amnesty International –

    By Agnès Callamard, Secretary General of Amnesty International

    As NATO states meet in the Hague this week, they face tough decisions that will impact the lives of millions, or even billions, around the world. If, as widely expected, they commit to increased defence spending in response to Russia’s ongoing war of aggression in Ukraine, they must ensure this is allied with strong commitments and actual measures to enhance protection of human rights and international humanitarian law.

    Given the gravity of the crises engulfing the world and the need to seize every opportunity to demand that human rights protection be central to all responses, I will be representing Amnesty International at the NATO Public Forum that runs parallel to the summit, in which leaders and officials will engage with security experts, academics, journalists and NGOs.

    Upon launching Amnesty’s annual report a few weeks ago, I declared it the strongest warning the organization has ever issued. There are more conflicts raging today than at any time since World War Two, inequality is rampant – both within and between states – and states are hurtling into an unchecked arms race, in the first place artificial intelligence-powered. Without concerted and comprehensive action from governments, this historic juncture will mutate into historic devastation.

    The summit should result in a set of concrete measures to ensure that international humanitarian law is respected.

    Agnès Callamard, Secretary General of Amnesty International

    When NATO leaders sit down to discuss such challenges, they must carefully consider their responsibility to humanity.

    MIL OSI NGO –

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

    Source: United Nations (video statements)

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

    ———————————

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

    __________________________________________

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

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

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

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

    MIL OSI Video –

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

    Source: United Nations (video statements)

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

    ———————————

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

    __________________________________________

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

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

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

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

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News in Brief: U.S. and Indonesian Navies Commence Exercise Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Indonesia 2025

    Source: United States Navy

    The United States Navy and the Indonesian Navy (Tentara Nasional Indonesia – Angkatan Laut, or TNI-AL) and Marine Corps (KORMAR RI) commenced Exercise Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Indonesia 2025 with an opening ceremony June 23, 2025 at Madura Pier onboard the TNI-AL Second Fleet Command.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: In Response to L.A. Riots, Tillis Reintroduces Bill to Make Blocking Public Roads a Federal Crime

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Carolina Thom Tillis

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Ted Budd (R-NC), and Bill Cassidy (R-LA) recently reintroduced the Safe and Open Streets Act, legislation that would make it a federal crime to purposely obstruct, delay, or affect commerce by blocking a public road or highway. 

    The Safe and Open Streets Act is in direct response to radical tactics of anti-ICE protestors who have intentionally blocked roads and highways across the country, including in Los Angeles, stranding drivers and compromising the free flow of commerce. The Safe and Open Streets Act would penalize lawbreakers through fines or up to five years of imprisonment.

    “The emerging tactic of radical protestors blocking roads and stopping commerce is not only obnoxious to innocent commuters, but it’s also dangerous and will eventually get people killed. It needs to be a crime throughout the country,” said Senator Tillis. “I’m proud to introduce the Safe and Open Streets Act so that radical activists who resort to these reckless and dangerous tactics are held accountable under the full weight of the law for endangering public safety.” 

    “Blocking major roads to stop traffic flows is nothing short of lawlessness that should not be tolerated,” said Senator Blackburn. “These activists are not only intentionally creating a dangerous situation for themselves, but perhaps for a citizen who is awaiting an ambulance or a hard worker who will lose their job for being late. The Safe and Open Streets Act is critical to stopping this reckless behavior, particularly by Hamas sympathizers, in our U.S. cities.”

    “For nearly a week, we watched as domestic terrorists assaulted ICE and law enforcement officers, set fire to cop cars, and blocked the streets of Los Angeles—all while Gavin Newsom and Karen Bass sat on their tails and did nothing,” said Senator Tuberville. “This is a prime example of what happens when lawlessness goes unpunished. The First Amendment gives us the right to freedom of assembly, but it doesn’t give the right to block our streets and put American lives at risk. I’m proud to join the Safe and Open Streets Act that penalizes and holds radical protestors accountable who put citizens in danger by purposely blocking our roadways.”

    “Protestors who willfully block traffic pose a serious threat to public safety by impacting the flow of emergency vehicles and personnel,” said Senator Budd. “They can also significantly inconvenience Americans trying to get to and from work, school, or important personal business. The First Amendment protects the right to assemble and protest peacefully, but it does not permit such behavior. I’m proud to join Sen. Tillis and our colleagues in ensuring America’s streets are kept clear for everyone.”

    “In America, people have the right to peacefully gather and make their voices heard. They do not have the right to obstruct roads, riot, and undermine people’s livelihoods,” said Dr. Cassidy. 

    Full text of the bill is available HERE.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven Statement on Confirmation of Rodney Scott to Lead CBP

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven

    06.18.25

    WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven issued the following statement after voting to confirm Rodney Scott to serve as the Commissioner of Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Scott worked for 30 years in various capacities at CBP and the U.S. Border Patrol, and previously served as Chief of the U.S. Border Patrol.

    “We congratulate Commissioner Scott on his confirmation,” said Hoeven. “When I met with Commissioner Scott he made clear his commitment to securing the border through additional personnel and technology and to ensuring that CBP manages the flow of goods and people through U.S. ports of entry safely and efficiently. Border security is national security, and the Trump administration has made good progress in stopping the flow of illegal immigration at our borders. We look forward to working with Commissioner Scott to secure our borders.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

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

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    BACKGROUND:

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

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

    For bill text, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Guatemala: Staff Concluding Statement of the 2025 Article IV Mission

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    June 23, 2025

    A Concluding Statement describes the preliminary findings of IMF staff at the end of an official staff visit (or ‘mission’), in most cases to a member country. Missions are undertaken as part of regular (usually annual) consultations under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, in the context of a request to use IMF resources (borrow from the IMF), as part of discussions of staff monitored programs, or as part of other staff monitoring of economic developments.

    The authorities have consented to the publication of this statement. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF Executive Board for discussion and decision.

    An International Monetary Fund (IMF) mission led by Mr. Alexander Culiuc visited Guatemala City during June 10-20, 2025 for the 2025 Article IV consultation. At the end of the visit, the mission issued the following statement:

    • Prudent macroeconomic management has supported Guatemala’s resilience, delivering low inflation, robust policy buffers and a sustained current account surplus. With rising external uncertainty and mounting risks, stronger, more inclusive growth and poverty reduction can be achieved by accelerating reform implementation and enhancing policy coordination.
    • Raising private investment from current low levels requires complementary public inputs—infrastructure, educated and healthy labor force, security—which can only be adequately delivered by simultaneously raising public spending and improving its quality.
    • Improving quality and efficiency of spending entails better budget formulation, targeting, execution and control, and swift implementation of the anti-corruption agenda. We welcome the authorities’ efforts in this regard.
    • In the short term, existing fiscal space enables financing higher levels of spending with debt, with greater reliance on domestic borrowing.
    • In the medium term, raising revenues—primarily via comprehensive tax policy reform—would revert deficits to around 2 percent of GDP to preserve debt sustainability while maintaining priority spending at adequate levels.
    • Other structural and governance reforms pursued by the authorities, including in the financial and labor sectors—particularly urgent in the case of the AML/CFT law—will help support private sector growth. Continued commitment to dialogue and consensus-building can sustain progress on key legislative initiatives.

    Recent Economic Developments, Outlook, and Risks

    Guatemala’s economy remains resilient despite rising external risks and domestic challenges. Real GDP grew by 3.7 percent in 2024, supported by strong private consumption. Inflation has eased significantly, with headline inflation falling to 1.7 percent in May 2025, while core inflation remains near 4 percent, and inflation expectations are well anchored. The current account surplus narrowed to 2.9 percent of GDP in 2024 as imports picked up, while remittances stabilized at 19 percent of GDP and international reserves reached US$27.1 billion. Public debt remains low—under 27 percent of GDP—and Guatemala is now only one notch below investment grade. Banguat kept its policy rate unchanged at 4.5 percent since the 25bps cut in November 2024.

    Guatemala endeavors an investment-biased fiscal expansion. The August 2024 supplementary budget prioritized infrastructure and social spending and targeted a deficit of 2.7 percent of GDP; the realized deficit was significantly lower at 1 percent of GDP. The 2025 budget continues this expansionary approach, with a further increase in infrastructure and social allocations. While the original budget targeted a deficit of 3.2 percent of GDP, a supplementary budget, specifying carryovers from 2024 and one-off pension payments, raised the budget deficit to a notably high 3.8 percent of GDP.

    The outlook for 2025 is encouraging; sustaining the growth momentum over the medium term will require steadfast policy implementation. Real GDP growth is projected at 3¾ percent in 2025, with the fiscal impulse expected to help cushion the effects of softening global demand and high uncertainty. Beyond 2025, growth is projected to slightly exceed 3½ percent, although an acceleration in public infrastructure execution and structural reforms could push both actual and potential growth higher in the outer projection years. Headline inflation is expected to gradually converge toward the monetary policy target, while the fiscal deficit is projected to remain elevated by historical standards at just below 3 percent of GDP through the medium term. The current account surplus is expected to narrow and eventually close, while public debt is projected to climb above 30 percent of GDP in the medium term.

    The balance of risks is tilted to the downside. On the domestic front, there is a risk that ongoing political tensions could impede progress on legislative initiatives. Nonetheless, important progress has been made over the past year—including the approval of the 2025 budget and the competition law—demonstrating the capacity for reform even in a complex environment. Externally, intensified and/or protracted global trade disputes would weigh further on investment sentiment, although Guatemala is somewhat better positioned to weather additional trade shocks than some regional peers. Further changes in U.S. migration policy—including the proposed 3.5 percent excise tax on remittances—could disrupt remittance-supported consumption. On the upside, lower net emigration also offers a window to boost domestic employment if accompanied by targeted efforts to expand job opportunities in the formal private sector.

    Fiscal Policy

    The 2025 expansionary fiscal stance is appropriate, as private demand is projected to soften in the remainder of the year. Structural bottlenecks and recently strengthened anti-corruption controls are likely to limit the execution of capital spending, with the deficit projected at around 2½ percent of GDP, well below the revised budget of 3.8 percent. The historically high (1.3 percent of GDP) transfers to Departmental Development Councils (CODEDEs) require close oversight and monitoring amidst concerns of elevated risks of misallocation and inefficient use. The authorities’ ongoing multi-institutional efforts to strengthen the transparency, accountability, monitoring of CODEDEs transfers and capacity of municipalities are welcome and should be sustained.

    A combination of revenue and expenditure reforms is needed in the medium term. Authorities should seek ways of reverting fiscal deficits closer to historical levels (around 2 percent of GDP) without jeopardizing the much-needed surge in public infrastructure and social spending. The tax authority (SAT) has made commendable steps in strengthening compliance through the rollout of mandatory electronic invoicing, enhanced border enforcement to combat smuggling, and more robust audits of high-income individuals and large corporations. Efforts to improve mobilization—in line with the now-public 2024 TADAT report—should continue and be complemented in the medium term by comprehensive tax policy reforms. On the expenditure side, strengthening institutional capacity for systematic expenditure reviews and embedding the National Development Plan into annual and multi-year budgets would align public spending with strategic priorities. A new Public Procurement law—currently under consideration—could alleviate bottlenecks in the execution of capital spending. Improved targeting in social programs would further increase their effectiveness. Strengthening the Medium-Term Fiscal Framework and multiannual budget planning underpinned by realistic, sector-informed projections will bolster confidence—including of market participants—in fiscal sustainability.

    A well-calibrated financing strategy would help the macro-policy mix. While solid creditworthiness enables the government to borrow externally on favorable terms, greater reliance on domestic financing under a sound medium term debt management strategy (MTDS) would (i) reduce real appreciation pressures (which already weigh on Guatemala’s external competitiveness), (ii) help develop the domestic financial market, (iii) reduce currency risks, and (iv) lower costs of monetary policy operation incurred by Banguat to maintain price stability. The mission also encourages the Ministry of Finance to consolidate domestic issuances, introduce shorter-maturity instruments to help develop the yield curve, and regularly publish the MTDS and annual borrowing plans.

    Monetary and Exchange Policies

    The current monetary policy stance is broadly appropriate, but there is scope to further strengthen monetary policy transmission. The ex-ante real policy rate is at 1 percent, within the estimated range for the neutral real rate (1–2 percent). Given prevailing uncertainty regarding the inflationary impact of recent U.S. tariff measures and potential disruptions to global supply chains, there’s scope in maintaining the current policy stance and waiting for greater clarity before making further adjustments. Estimated passthrough of the policy rate to deposit rates has recently increased. More can be done, including by advancing financial market development and competition and reducing reliance on reserve requirements for liquidity management. These efforts should be underpinned by improvements in the legal framework and market infrastructure supporting monetary policy operations.

    Banguat’s response to large remittances inflows is appropriate and requires closer coordination with MinFin to address ensuing sterilization costs. Banguat’s FX participation rule delivers a reasonable balance between enabling higher consumption and maintaining external competitiveness. The resulting external position is stronger than fundamentals and desirable policies, but this positive current account gap should be closed by raising investment. On the flip side, Banguat’s policy necessarily relies on costly liquidity sterilization operations to keep inflation in check. While recent international financial conditions have been supportive of Banguat’s profitability, these costs could be further reduced through higher reliance on domestic debt to finance the budget, and closer coordination with MinFin on liquidity management. In the long term, ensuring Banguat’s financial strength will require consistent enforcement of legal provisions mandating budget to cover central bank losses.

    Financial Sector

    Maintaining financial stability requires continued close monitoring of the system. Guatemala’s banking system remains sound, with solid capital and liquidity buffers and strong profitability. The authorities have made important progress in bolstering the regulatory and supervisory framework through enhanced credit risk regulations, more robust stress testing, broader regulatory coverage, and the inclusion—on a voluntary basis—of savings and credit cooperatives in the Credit Risk Information System. These efforts should be reinforced by expanding risk-based supervision and strengthening oversight of fintech and digital financial services. Adopting revisions to the 2002 Law on Banks and Financial Groups, transitioning to International Financial Reporting Standards, advancing the draft Secondary Market Law, approving the e-money law and continued implementation of other elements of the financial inclusion strategy are needed.

    Governance and Structural Agenda

    Strengthening governance and advancing structural reforms are critical to fostering inclusive growth and restoring public trust. Key legislative priorities include the adoption of a revised AML/CFT Law aligned with international standards, the Beneficial Ownership Law, the Public Procurement Law and the Law for the Protection of Whistleblowers to ensure secure reporting channels and legal safeguards. With GAFILAT mutual evaluation expected in 2027, further delays with the AML/CFT law could complicate Guatemala’s path to investment grade. Institutional progress—such as the creation of the National Commission Against Corruption and the rollout of probity offices across executive institutions—should be consolidated through a medium-term anti-corruption strategy. Accelerating infrastructure investment through amendments to the law on Partnerships for Development of Economic Infrastructure, and a new law on ports is essential to close persistent gaps and crowd in private investment. Continued efforts to formalize the economy and improve the business environment will help prepare the economy for the impact of lower net emigration on the labor market.

    The mission wishes to thank the Guatemalan authorities for their cooperation and openness in the exchanges throughout our visit and wishes them every success in their efforts to move the country towards a new equilibrium characterized by high, inclusive and sustainable growth.

    Guatemala: Selected Economic Indicators

     

     

    Projections

    2023

    2024

    2025

    2026

    2027

    2028

    2029

       (Annual percent change, unless otherwise indicated)

    Income and prices

    Real GDP

    3.5

    3.7

    3.8

    3.6

    3.6

    3.7

    3.8

    Inflation (average)

    6.2

    2.9

    2.4

    4.0

    4.0

    4.0

    4.0

    (In percent of GDP, unless otherwise indicated)

    External Sector

    		  

    Current Account Balance

    3.1

    2.9

    2.5

    1.7

    1.3

    0.7

    0.2

    Trade Balance (goods and services)

    -15.1

    -15.5

    -15.9

    -15.8

    -15.4

    -15.0

    -14.7

    Remittances

    19.0

    19.0

    18.8

    18.0

    17.1

    16.3

    15.5

    Financial Account (“+” = net lending)

    2.7

    2.5

    2.5

    1.7

    1.3

    0.7

    0.2

    Central Government Finances

    Total Revenues

    12.5

    12.4

    12.4

    12.4

    12.4

    12.4

    12.4

    Tax Revenues

    11.7

    11.8

    11.7

    11.7

    11.7

    11.7

    11.7

    Total Expenditure

    13.7

    13.4

    15.0

    15.1

    15.3

    15.2

    15.2

    Current

    11.2

    11.0

    11.8

    11.7

    11.9

    11.9

    12.0

    Capital

    2.5

    2.4

    3.2

    3.4

    3.4

    3.3

    3.2

    Primary Balance

    0.4

    0.7

    -1.0

    -1.1

    -1.2

    -1.0

    -1.0

    Overall Balance

    -1.3

    -1.0

    -2.6

    -2.8

    -2.9

    -2.8

    -2.8

    Central Government Debt

    Gross Central Government Debt

    27.2

    26.3

    27.1

    28.0

    28.9

    29.6

    30.2

    Source: Bank of Guatemala; Ministry of Finance; and Fund staff estimates and projections. 
    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Meera Louis

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/06/23/guatemala-staff-concluding-statement-of-the-2025-article-iv-mission

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Executive Board Concludes Bangladesh Combined Third and Fourth Reviews under the Extended Credit Facility, Extended Fund Facility, and Resilience and Sustainability Facility

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    June 23, 2025

    • The IMF Executive Board concluded the combined third and fourth reviews of Bangladesh’s arrangements under the Extended Credit Facility (ECF) and Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and approved an extension, augmentation and rephasing of access. This decision provides Bangladesh with immediate access to about US$884 million.
    • The IMF Executive Board also concluded the combined Third and Fourth Reviews of Bangladesh’s arrangement under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF), making available about US$453 million to support the Bangladesh economy’s resilience to climate change.
    • Bangladesh’s program performance has been broadly satisfactory despite the difficult political and economic context and increased downside risks. Advancing the reform agenda is critical to restoring economic stability, protecting the vulnerable, and supporting inclusive and environmentally sustainable growth.

    Washington, DC: The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund completed the combined Third and Fourth Reviews of Bangladesh’s arrangements under the Extended Credit Facility (ECF), the Extended Fund Facility (EFF), and the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF). The Executive Board also approved an augmentation of SDR 567.19 million (53.2 percent of quota) for the ECF/EFF arrangements and a six-month extension. Completion of these reviews allows the authorities to immediately withdraw SDR 650.5 million (about US$884 million) under the ECF/EFF, and SDR 333.3 million (about US$453 million) under the RSF.[1]

    Further, the IMF Executive Board approved a modification of performance criteria and granted a waiver for the non-observance of the performance criterion related to the non-imposition and non-intensification of exchange restrictions, based on the temporary nature of the non-observance and the implementation of corrective measures.

    Bangladesh’s arrangements under the ECF/EFF/RSF  were approved on January 30, 2023, in an amount equivalent to SDR 2.5 billion (154.3 percent of quota or about US$3.3 billion) under the ECF/EFF and SDR 1 billion (93.8 percent of quota or about US$1.4 billion) under the RSF (PR no. 23/25)

    The augmentation approved by the Executive Board today brings the total financial assistance under the ECF and EFF arrangements to SDR 3,035.65 million (about US$ 4.1billion), alongside concurrent RSF arrangements of SDR 1 billion (about US$1.4 billion). The enlarged enhanced ECF/EFF is aimed at restoring macroeconomic stability, promoting inclusive growth, and protecting the vulnerable. The RSF arrangement has secured fiscal space needed to build resilience against climate risks.

    Bangladesh’s macroeconomic challenges have increased since the popular uprising in the summer of 2024, which led to the ouster of the previous government. The timely formation of an interim government has helped stabilize political and security conditions, fostering a gradual return to economic stability. However, the economic outlook has worsened due to persistent political uncertainty, continuation of tighter policy mix, rising trade barriers, and increasing stress in the banking sector.

    Program performance for the third and fourth reviews remains broadly satisfactory despite the difficult political and economic context. The authorities are fully committed to implementing necessary policies under the program and have recently pressed forward with critical reforms to increase exchange rate flexibility and boost tax revenues.

    The authorities have consented to the publication of the Staff Report prepared for this consultation.[2]

    Executive Board Assessment[3]

    Following the Executive Board’s discussion, Mr. Nigel Clarke, Deputy Managing Director, and Acting Chair, made the following statement:

    “Bangladesh’s economy continues to navigate multiple macroeconomic challenges. Despite a difficult environment, program performance has remained broadly on track, and the authorities are committed to implementing necessary policy actions and reforms. The IMF-supported programs are helping safeguard macroeconomic stability and protect the most vulnerable, while accelerating reforms to support resilient and inclusive growth.

    “Near-term policies should prioritize rebuilding external resilience and reducing inflation. The authorities’ recent steps to implement a new exchange rate regime and include revenue-enhancing measures in the FY2026 budget are welcome. A balanced policy mix—anchored in maintaining a tight monetary policy stance, greater exchange rate flexibility, and revenue-based fiscal consolidation—will support efforts to restore both external and internal balances.

    “Efforts to raise tax revenues and rationalize expenditures—including through subsidy reduction—are critical for creating the fiscal space needed to strengthen social, development, and climate initiatives. Sustained progress in reducing government subsidies to a fiscally sustainable level, along with enhanced public financial management, is essential to improving spending efficiency and mitigating fiscal risks.

    “Financial sector policy should prioritize safeguarding stability and addressing rising vulnerabilities. Developing a comprehensive, sequenced strategy to guide reforms is an immediate priority, followed by the swift implementation of the new legal frameworks to enable orderly bank restructuring while protecting small depositors.

    “Sustained structural reforms are essential for Bangladesh to achieve its goal of attaining upper middle-income status. Key priorities include diversifying exports, attracting greater foreign direct investment, strengthening governance, and enhancing data quality.

    “Building resilience to natural disasters is essential for achieving high and inclusive growth. The RSF’s focus on strengthening institutions and policy coordination as well as on enhancing the efficiency of climate-related spending remains critical, including in helping mobilize climate finance.”

    Bangladesh: Selected Economic Indicators, FY2022-27 1/

     

    FY22

    FY23

    FY24

    FY25

    FY26

    FY27
                 
           

    Projections
                 
                 

    Real GDP

    7.1

    5.8

    4.2

    3.8

    5.4

    6.2

        Consumption

    		            

         Private

    7.5

    2.0

    6.0

    6.0

    5.4

    5.4

         Public

    6.2

    8.5

    9.8

    4.1

    -4.3

    16.1

    Gross Capital Formation

    11.7

    2.2

    3.3

    -0.1

    5.8

    6.8

         Private

    11.8

    2.9

    4.3

    0.3

    3.3

    5.2

         Public

    11.1

    0.0

    -0.2

    -1.3

    14.9

    11.9

    Trade

    		            

         Exports of goods and services

    29.4

    8.0

    -17.1

    5.2

    19.8

    12.7

         Imports of goods and services

    31.2

    -9.8

    -4.6

    5.8

    11.6

    11.9
                 

     

    Prices

    		            

       GDP deflator

    5.0

    6.9

    6.9

    10.3

    6.2

    6.5

       CPI inflation (annual average)

    6.1

    9.0

    9.7

    9.9

    6.2

    6.3

       CPI inflation (end of period)

    7.6

    9.7

    9.7

    8.3

    6.5

    5.9
                 
                 
                 

     

    Central government operations (in percent of GDP)

    Total revenue and grants

    8.9

    8.2

    8.3

    8.7

    9.5

    10.0

    Of which: Tax revenue

    8.0

    7.3

    7.4

    7.7

    8.6

    9.2

    Total expenditure

    13.0

    12.7

    12.1

    12.8

    13.5

    14.5

    Of which: Annual Development Program (ADP)

    4.7

    4.3

    3.8
                 

    Overall balance (including grants)

    -4.1

    -4.5

    -3.8

    -4.2

    -4.1

    -4.5

    (excluding grants)

    -4.2

    -4.6

    -3.9

    -4.3

    -4.1

    -4.6

    Primary balance (including grants)

    -2.1

    -2.5

    -1.5

    -2.0

    -2.0

    -2.2
                 

        Public sector total debt 2/

    37.9

    39.7

    41.0

    40.7

    41.8

    42.1

    Of which: External debt

    15.4

    17.5

    18.6

    18.6

    19.2

    18.6
                 
                 

     

    Balance of Payments (in percent of GDP)

    		            

         Current account balance

    -4.0

    -2.6

    -1.4

    -1.0

    -0.7

    -0.9

              Trade balance

    -8.0

    -4.7

    -5.9

    -5.9

    -5.1

    -5.3

        Capital account balance

    0.1

    0.1

    0.1

    0.1

    0.1

    0.1

        Financial account balance

    3.6

    1.5

    1.0

    1.1

    1.4

    1.7

                   Foreign direct investment, net

    0.4

    0.4

    0.4

    0.2

    0.5

    0.6

    Gross international reserves (billions of U.S. dollars)

    33.4

    24.8

    21.7

    23.6

    29.0

            in months of next year’s imports

    5.0

    4.1

    3.3

    3.2

    3.5

    3.7
                 

     

    Monetary and Credit (in percent of GDP)

    		            

    Reserve money

    8.7

    8.5

    8.2

    8.2

    8.9

    9.1

    Broad money (M2)

    52.9

    50.7

    48.4

    45.0

    45.5

    46.4

    Credit to private sector

    36.6

    35.3

    34.5

    32.0

    31.7

    32.2

    Credit to private sector (percent change)

    13.7

    9.1

    8.8

    6.2

    10.7

    14.8
                 

     

    Savings and Investment (in percent of GDP)

    		            

        Gross national savings

    29.3

    29.9

    28.3

    28.7

    28.8

    28.8

        Public

    1.2

    0.3

    0.5

    0.3

    1.4

    1.5

        Private

    28.2

    29.7

    27.9

    28.4

    27.4

    27.2
                 

         Gross investment

    32.0

    31.0

    30.7

    29.6

    29.5

    29.7

         Public

    7.5

    6.8

    6.7

    6.4

    7.0

    7.3

         Private

    24.5

    24.2

    24.0

    23.2

    22.5

    22.4
                 

     

    Memorandum item:

    		            

    Nominal GDP (in billions of taka)

    39,717

    44,908

    50,027

    57,246

    64,116

    72,509
                 

    Sources: Bangladesh authorities; and IMF staff estimates and projections.

    1/ Fiscal year begins on July 1 and ends on June 30.

    2/ Includes central government’s gross debt, including debt owed to the IMF, plus domestic bank borrowing by nonfinancial public sector and public enterprises’ external borrowing supported by government guarantees, including short-term oil-related suppliers’ credits.

    [1] SDR figures for the disbursed are converted at the market rate of U.S. dollar per SDR on the day of the Board approval.

    [2] Under the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, publication of documents that pertain to member countries is voluntary and requires the member consent. The staff report will be shortly published on the www.imf.org/bangladesh page.

    [3] At the conclusion of the discussion, the Managing Director, as Chair of the Board, summarizes the views of Executive Directors, and this summary is transmitted to the country’s authorities. An explanation of any qualifiers used in summings up can be found here: http://www.IMF.org/external/np/sec/misc/qualifiers.htm.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Randa Elnagar

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/06/23/pr-25213-bangladesh-imf-concludes-combined-3rd-and-4th-reviews-under-the-ecf-eff-and-rsf

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Mast Applauds House Vote to Defund Biden’s Cash Payments to Taliban

    Source: US House Committee on Foreign Affairs

    Media Contact 202-321-9747

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Brian Mast issued the following statement after the House voted in favor of a bill sponsored by Rep. Tim Burchett (R-TN) to ensure no more U.S. tax dollars fall into the hands of the Taliban after the Biden administration paid the terrorist regime millions of dollars following the disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan.

    “This bill makes sure not a single penny of American taxpayer money ends up in the hands of the Taliban—not directly, not through back doors, and not via weak-willed foreign governments or shady NGOs,” Chairman Mast said. “If you’re funding the Taliban, you’re no friend of the United States.”

    This issue has been a key focus for House Republicans since last Congress when lawmakers were made aware that weekly cash shipments of nearly $40 million were being sent to Afghanistan’s Taliban-controlled Central Bank.

    Additionally, the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction reported in May 2024 that more than $10 million had been paid to the Taliban in the form of taxes since they took over Afghanistan in August 2021. Secretary of State Antony Blinken later admitted that around $10 million had been paid to the Taliban in the form of taxes after testifying before the committee in December 2024. 

    Republicans, led by Rep. Burchett, introduced H.R. 6586 last Congress to oppose financial and material support from falling into the hands of the Taliban. The measure passed unanimously both in committee and on the House floor, but Senate Democrats refused to bring the bill up for final passage.

    This Congress, Republicans introduced H.R. 260 –  No Tax Dollars for Terrorist Act which builds upon H.R. 6586 to ensure no U.S. taxpayer dollars end up in the hands of the Taliban.

    The bill advanced to the House floor during the House Foreign Affairs Committee’s first full committee markup of the 119th Congress.

    “I would like to thank Chairman Mast and the entire House Foreign Affairs Committee for their tireless work on this legislation,” Rep. Burchett said. “We are one step closer to ensuring that US dollars stop flowing to terrorist organizations.”

    The measure now proceeds to the Senate for final passage.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Former Chairman and CEO of Publicly Traded Health Care Company Sentenced to 42 Months in Prison for Insider Trading

    Source: US State of Vermont

    Sentence is the First Insider Trading Prosecution Based Exclusively on Use of Rule 10b5-1 Trading Plans

    The former CEO and chairman of the board of directors of Ontrak Inc., a Miami-based publicly traded health care company, was sentenced today to 42 months in prison for engaging in an insider trading scheme using Rule 10b5-1 stock trading plans to avoid losses of more than $12.5 million.

    Terren Scott Peizer, 65, a resident of Puerto Rico and Santa Monica, was sentenced by  U.S. District Judge Dale S. Fischer, who also ordered him to pay a fine of $5.25 million and forfeit more than $12.7 million in ill-gotten gains.

    “Terren Peizer betrayed the trust of Ontrak’s investors, trading on inside information to offload company stock before a substantial price decline,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division.  “Today’s just sentence reflects the Criminal Division’s hard work and commitment to prosecuting frauds that harm American investors. The Criminal Division will use the tools at its disposal to combat sophisticated frauds that exploit our securities markets.”

    “Insiders must not be allowed to put their thumbs on the scales of the stock market,” said U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli for the Central District of California. “Individuals who impugn the integrity of our markets can and will face prison time for their crimes.”

    In May 2021, Peizer entered into his first 10b5-1 trading plan shortly after learning that the relationship between Ontrak and its largest customer was deteriorating, and that the customer had expressed serious reservations about continuing its contract with Ontrak. Peizer later learned that the customer informed Ontrak of its intent to terminate the contract. In August 2021, Peizer entered into his second 10b5-1 trading plan minutes after Ontrak’s chief negotiator for the contract told Peizer that the contract likely would be terminated.

    In establishing his 10b5-1 plans, Peizer refused to engage in any “cooling-off” period — the time between when he entered into the plan and when he sold stock — despite warnings from two brokers, a senior Ontrak executive, and attorneys. Instead, Peizer began selling shares of Ontrak on the next trading day after establishing each plan. On Aug. 19, 2021, just six days after Peizer adopted his 10b5-1 plan, Ontrak announced that the customer had terminated its contract and Ontrak’s stock price declined by more than 44%.

    In June 2024, Peizer was found guilty after a 10 day jury trial of one count of securities fraud and two counts of insider trading. The case is part of a data-driven initiative led by the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section to identify executive abuses of 10b5-1 trading plans. 

    The FBI investigated the case. The Justice Department appreciates the substantial assistance of FINRA’s Criminal Prosecution Assistance Group.

    Trial Attorney Matthew Reilly of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California prosecuted the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Galatzan for the Central District of California assisted with the forfeiture proceedings.

    MIL OSI USA News –

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

    Source: US State of California 2

    Jun 23, 2025

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

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

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

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

    He is survived by his wife and parents. 

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

    Press releases, Public safety

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    Jun 20, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Soon-Sik Lee, of Bellevue, Washington, has been appointed Chief of Planning and Engineering at the California High Speed Rail Authority. Lee has been a Vice President – Senior Program…

    Jun 19, 2025

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    MIL OSI USA News –

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

    Source: US FBI

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Chairman and CEO of Publicly Traded Health Care Company Sentenced to 42 Months in Prison for Insider Trading

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    Sentence is the First Insider Trading Prosecution Based Exclusively on Use of Rule 10b5-1 Trading Plans

    The former CEO and chairman of the board of directors of Ontrak Inc., a Miami-based publicly traded health care company, was sentenced today to 42 months in prison for engaging in an insider trading scheme using Rule 10b5-1 stock trading plans to avoid losses of more than $12.5 million.

    Terren Scott Peizer, 65, a resident of Puerto Rico and Santa Monica, was sentenced by  U.S. District Judge Dale S. Fischer, who also ordered him to pay a fine of $5.25 million and forfeit more than $12.7 million in ill-gotten gains.

    “Terren Peizer betrayed the trust of Ontrak’s investors, trading on inside information to offload company stock before a substantial price decline,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division.  “Today’s just sentence reflects the Criminal Division’s hard work and commitment to prosecuting frauds that harm American investors. The Criminal Division will use the tools at its disposal to combat sophisticated frauds that exploit our securities markets.”

    “Insiders must not be allowed to put their thumbs on the scales of the stock market,” said U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli for the Central District of California. “Individuals who impugn the integrity of our markets can and will face prison time for their crimes.”

    In May 2021, Peizer entered into his first 10b5-1 trading plan shortly after learning that the relationship between Ontrak and its largest customer was deteriorating, and that the customer had expressed serious reservations about continuing its contract with Ontrak. Peizer later learned that the customer informed Ontrak of its intent to terminate the contract. In August 2021, Peizer entered into his second 10b5-1 trading plan minutes after Ontrak’s chief negotiator for the contract told Peizer that the contract likely would be terminated.

    In establishing his 10b5-1 plans, Peizer refused to engage in any “cooling-off” period — the time between when he entered into the plan and when he sold stock — despite warnings from two brokers, a senior Ontrak executive, and attorneys. Instead, Peizer began selling shares of Ontrak on the next trading day after establishing each plan. On Aug. 19, 2021, just six days after Peizer adopted his 10b5-1 plan, Ontrak announced that the customer had terminated its contract and Ontrak’s stock price declined by more than 44%.

    In June 2024, Peizer was found guilty after a 10 day jury trial of one count of securities fraud and two counts of insider trading. The case is part of a data-driven initiative led by the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section to identify executive abuses of 10b5-1 trading plans. 

    The FBI investigated the case. The Justice Department appreciates the substantial assistance of FINRA’s Criminal Prosecution Assistance Group.

    Trial Attorney Matthew Reilly of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California prosecuted the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Galatzan for the Central District of California assisted with the forfeiture proceedings.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Damascus Attack, Security Council on Iran & other topics – Daily Press Briefing (23June 2025)

    Source: United Nations (video statements)

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

    ———————————

    Highlights:
    – 4th International Conference on Financing for Development (FfD4)
    – Guest Speaker Tomorrow Jorge Moreira da Silva, Executive Director of the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS).
    – Damascus Church Attack
    – Security Council meeting on Iran, Secretary General Remarks.

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

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

    MIL OSI Video –

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

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich

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

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

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

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

    Read the full letter here and below.

    Dear Secretary Wright:

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

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

    We strongly urge you to reconsider this action.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Schatz Statement On U.S. Military Action In Iran

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Hawaii Brian Schatz

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, released the following statement on U.S. military action in Iran.

    “This strike ordered by President Trump is a reckless and dangerous escalation that puts American lives at risk and threatens our national security. It was carried out without congressional approval and with no clear plan for what comes next beyond more chaos and bloodshed.

    “We’ve all seen what happens when the United States gets dragged into an endless war in the Middle East — lives lost, trillions spent, and no lasting peace or security. We cannot continue to repeat the mistakes of the past.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Newly established Badenoch and Strathspey Transport Forum meets for the first time

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    The inaugural meeting of Badenoch and Strathspey’s Local Transport Forum took place today in Grantown on Spey.

    Representatives from community councils and partner organisations came together to discuss the scope and membership of the forum as agreed by the Badenoch and Strathspey Area Committee.

    Chair of the Badenoch and Strathspey Committee, Councillor Russell Jones, said: “I’m pleased to see community groups coming together to take forward the newly established Local Transport Forum which was agreed in April. The forum provides an opportunity for local people to share concerns and ideas, engage directly with transport operators and build strong relationships with partner organisations.

    “With many rural communities throughout Badenoch and Strathspey, transport is particularly important for this area and the forum will act as a central point of contact for transport issues and ensure that local people can be involved in the development of improved transport solutions, covering everything from active travel to buses and trains and linking all of these together. The aim is to support local people to move around our area more easily and when best suits them.

    “‘My ward colleagues and I will be actively involved in this forum at all times, and we look forward to working with Community Council representatives, partner organisations and transport providers. We are determined to see results for local residents, and I look forward to working with the community on this as Chair of the new Transport Forum.”

    Members of the Badenoch and Strathspey Committee agreed to establish the Local Transport Forum at the last committee meeting on 28 April. Regular meetings of the forum will take place after the summer recess, with venues alternating between Badenoch and Strathspey.

    23 Jun 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Whin Park Reopens After £500k Transformation

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Whin Park, one of Inverness’s most cherished outdoor spaces, has officially reopened following a £500,000 transformation that has delivered a vibrant, inclusive, and modern play experience for children and families across the Highlands.

    Marking the occasion at the end of May, pupils from St Joseph’s and Muirtown Primary Schools, students from Millburn Academy, and pipers from Inverness Royal Academy joined Highland Council representatives for a celebratory ribbon-cutting event led by City Leader Cllr Ian Brown.

    “I’m delighted this project has been delivered,” said Cllr Ian Brown, Leader of Inverness and Area. “Thank you to everyone who contributed to the consultation, especially the young people. Their input has helped us create a sustainable, inclusive play space for all ages and abilities. We now have a park we can enjoy and be proud of.”

    Shaped by extensive community engagement, the winning design received overwhelming support during public consultation, with over 77% of respondents favouring it. The new features include a Nessie-themed interactive sculpture, Legend Seeker play ship, swing area, climbing birds’ nest, adventure mound with scramble net and tube slide, and the Highlands’ first Sona Interactive Dance Arch, which uses audio and gaming technology to encourage active play outdoors.

    Cllr Graham MacKenzie, Chair of the Communities and Place Committee, added: “Play and interaction are vital to the development of young people, and these much-needed upgrades ensure children of all abilities can enjoy the benefits of play in a safe and engaging environment.”

    The winning design was delivered by Jupiter Play & Leisure Ltd, with installation by Play Works Ltd.

    Michael Hoenigmann, Managing Director of Jupiter Play & Leisure Ltd, said: “We are delighted to have designed and built the new play area at Whin Park. This was an ambitious project, completed on time and within budget. We’ve worked closely with The Highland Council team to create a unique play environment that is inclusive, resilient to the Scottish climate, and packed with high-quality equipment that will be enjoyed for many years to come.”

    The project was funded by £234,988 from the Scottish Government Play Area Fund, £150,000 from the Inverness Common Good Fund, and £102,000 from the Community Regeneration Fund.

    Whin Park continues to offer the popular boating pond, miniature Ness Islands Railway, and on-site refreshments—now complemented by a modern, accessible, and exciting play area designed with children’s input at its heart.

    In addition to the play area transformation, the park’s public conveniences have also recently undergone refurbishment, providing accessible toilet facilities to support visitors and complement the wider improvements across the park.

    Highland Council would also like to thank local florist Flowers by Lee for kindly providing the ribbon used during the opening ceremony—adding a special finishing touch to the opening celebration.

    See the new park and watch the opening ceremony on our YouTube channel.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Planning for World Heritage in Highland wins Scottish Award

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    David Cowie and Nicole Wallace pictured with the “Best Plan” category award

    Planning for The Flow Country World Heritage Site has been recognised by an award from the Royal Town Planning Institute. The submission to RTPI’s Awards for Planning Excellence 2025 – Scottish round, submitted by The Highland Council, won against stiff competition in the ‘Best Plan’ category from National Planning Framework 4, the Hawick Place Plan and the Hagshaw Energy Cluster.

    In July 2024, UNESCO inscribed The Flow Country as a World Heritage Site, marking the site as globally significant, as important as the Great Barrier Reef or the Serengeti and worthy of protection and restoration. Globally it is the first peatland World Heritage Site. It is also Scotland’s first World Heritage Site inscribed purely for natural criteria, and only the sixth natural site in the UK.

    The award was presented to Highland Council representatives Nicole Wallace (Service Lead – Environment and Active and Sustainable Travel) and David Cowie (Principal Planner) at a ceremony held on Monday evening, 16 June at the Grassmarket Community Project in Edinburgh.

    Speaking after the event, Nicole Wallace said: “We are delighted to receive this recognition of planning for The Flow Country World Heritage Site. It is welcome acknowledgement of the planning position statement and heritage impact assessment toolkit published by the Council to guide development and protection. But it is also recognition of the efforts of the whole Flow Country Partnership that led the bid for UNESCO inscription of the site and the importance of addressing the challenges that lie ahead and maximising the opportunities to be gained from it.”

    Councillor Ken Gowans, Chair of The Highland Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee said: “Protecting The Flow Country is hugely important as part of the response to both climate and ecological emergencies. Planning has a key role in this protection, guiding decisions that protect the outstanding universal value of the site, whilst enabling appropriate development in light of community priorities.  It’s great for the team to receive this award and the boost it provides.”

    RTPI’s annual Awards for Planning Excellence showcase and celebrate the best plans, projects and people, recognising and highlighting the positive contribution planning professionals make in the communities they serve around the world. As one of the local winners, The Flow Country World Heritage Site will now be put forward for the RTPI Awards for Planning Excellence national awards that are judged later in the year.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

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

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

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

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

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

    The programme includes:

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

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

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

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

    More information is available on The Highland Council website.

    23 Jun 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

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

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Lana Popham, MLA for Saanich South –

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

    Leah Hollins, board chair, Island Health –

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

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

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

    Patti Flaherty, CEO, Connect Communities –

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

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister Carney meets with Prime Minister of Belgium Bart De Wever

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Today, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, met with the Prime Minister of Belgium, Bart De Wever.

    Prime Minister Carney congratulated Prime Minister De Wever on taking office in February and emphasized the longstanding ties between Canada and Belgium.

    The leaders discussed expanding bilateral trade and investment, with a focus on advancing clean energy solutions such as nuclear and hydrogen, strengthening critical minerals supply chains, and deepening co-operation on defence procurement.

    They affirmed their support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and agreed on the imperative of achieving a just and lasting peace. The leaders also underscored their commitment to defence co-operation in support of security in Europe, particularly on NATO’s eastern flank.

    Prime Minister Carney and Prime Minister De Wever agreed to remain in close contact and looked forward to continuing discussions at the NATO Summit in The Hague, the Netherlands, later this week.

    Associated Link

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Tourism Strategy Committee holds fourth meeting (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Tourism Strategy Committee holds fourth meeting  
         Members expressed their recognition to the KTSP since its commissioning, which was well received by both the tourism industry and the visitors. Members put forward suggestions for optimising the transportation and catering arrangements during mega events as well as strengthening cross-sector collaboration with the tourism industry.
     
         Regarding the preliminary land use proposal of the sites around Hung Hom Station and its waterfront areas, members considered that with panoramic views of Victoria Harbour, the waterfront areas were well-positioned to be re-planned and developed into a new harbourfront landmark that would integrate leisure and entertainment, dining and retail, and water-friendly elements. As for the utilisation of water body, members agreed that the water body adjacent to the former Hung Hom Freight Yard site should be put to good use. The proposed world-class yacht berthing facilities to be provided thereat could be integrated with land-based facilities for retail, dining and entertainment so as to promote yacht tourism. Members also recommended the Government to provide space for setting up land-side ancillary facilities to support the operation of the yacht berthing facilities. The DEVB is currently consulting the public and stakeholders on the preliminary land use proposal. The consultation period will end on July 5, 2025. The Government will take into account members’ recommendations and the feedback received during the consultation period when refining the development proposal and finalising the detailed development parameters. The target is to commence the relevant statutory procedures in the second half of 2026.
     
    In addition, members also exchanged views with Hong Kong Tourism Board’s representatives regarding Hong Kong’s latest tourism performance and relevant statistics. For the first five months of 2025, Hong Kong received more than 20 million visitor arrivals, a 12 per cent increase year-on-year. Among the visitors, about 15 million came from the Mainland, a 10 per cent rise year-on-year. Growth momentum is sustained across various non-Mainland markets, with around 5 million visitor arrivals in the first five months, an 18 per cent rise year-on-year. Number of visitor arrivals from Japan, South Korea, the Philippines, Indonesia and Taiwan and increasing more than 20 per cent year-on-year respectively. For Australia, a significant growth of more than 30 per cent was recorded.
     
    The Committee is tasked to provide the Government with strategic advice and foster collaboration among different stakeholders in tourism and related sectors for further promoting the long-term and sustainable development of Hong Kong’s tourism industry. Members include prominent figures and key leaders from the tourism and other related sectors such as culture, sports, retail and catering.
    Issued at HKT 21:45

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DH to launch final phase of HPV Vaccination Catch-up Programme on June 26

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    DH to launch final phase of HPV Vaccination Catch-up Programme on June 26???
    The Controller of the CHP, Dr Edwin Tsui said, “In Hong Kong, cervical cancer was the ninth most common cancer among women in 2022, with 522 new cases and 167 deaths. The HPV vaccine is highly effective in preventing the high-risk types of HPV that most commonly cause cervical cancer. Following the recommendations of the World Health Organization, the DH launched the first phase of Programme in December last year to provide free vaccination for female full-time students studying in Secondary Five or above (including secondary sections of special schools). As of June 8, the coverage rate for the first dose of the HPV vaccine in the first phase of the Programme has exceeded 80 per cent. The second phase has begun in mid-March this year, offering free HPV vaccination to female Hong Kong residents born between 2004 and 2008 who are currently studying at local post-secondary institutions. All post-secondary institutions have participated.”

    Under the final phase of the Programme, all female Hong Kong residents born between 2004 and 2008 who are not currently studying and have not completed their HPV vaccination only need to register with eHealth first, after which they can make an appointment through the website or telephone number of the WWS under the PHCC of the HHB for free vaccination at the WWS and its service points, or designated District Health Centre (DHC)/Express (E). Appointments can be made starting today by calling the WWS at 2855 1333 or through its website (www.wws.org.hk/vaccineIssued at HKT 17:55

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –