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  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Executive Board Concludes 2025 Article IV Consultation with Spain

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    June 6, 2025

    • The Spanish economy has been performing strongly, supported by services exports and labor force growth. Growth is expected to remain significantly above the euro area average in the near term, before slowing gradually as its recent drivers normalize and demographic aging intensifies. Most risks are to the downside, including from a further escalation of trade measures and domestic political fragmentation.
    • The authorities should seize the growth momentum to more swiftly rebuild fiscal space and reduce sovereign debt risks through a clearer consolidation strategy grounded in well-identified tax increase and spending reduction priorities. Additional measures should also be taken to address fiscal pressures from rising future pension expenditures, and to improve the pension system’s safeguard clause.
    • Raising productivity is key to boosting income per capita gains, which have been modest since the pandemic. This should be achieved through a new wave of reforms to facilitate firms’ scaling-up and strengthen innovation.

    Washington, DC: The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) completed the Article IV Consultation for Spain.[1] The authorities have consented to the publication of the Staff Report prepared for this consultation.[2]

    With a growth rate of 3.2 percent in 2024, Spain has been one of the fastest-growing economies in the euro area. Growth has been fueled by robust services exports and labor force growth, including due to immigration. Because high GDP growth has been accompanied by high employment growth, GDP per capita gains have been more modest. Despite recent progress, Spain still has one of the lowest employment rates in Europe, and a persistent gap in (hourly labor) productivity vis-à-vis the euro area and—even more so—the US.

    Growth is projected to reach 2.5 percent in 2025 before slowing to 1.8 percent in 2026 as export and working-age population gains normalize. Growth will be primarily supported by private domestic demand, including due to a decline in the household saving rate and a pickup in investment. Inflation is projected to decline further and return close to the ECB’s target by end-2025.

    Executive Board Assessment[3]

    The Spanish economy has continued to outperform the euro area but per-capita income gains have been more modest. Two major drivers of Spain’s strong growth have been, on the supply side, labor force growth, and on the demand side, services exports. Labor force growth has particularly benefitted from recent migration inflows, which have risen sharply above pre-pandemic levels. Services exports have been fueled by the strong post-COVID recovery in tourism, but also by improvements in the performance of Spanish exporters in non-tourism services. Amid strong exports and still subdued imports, the external position in 2024 is preliminarily assessed to be stronger than implied by medium-term fundamentals and desirable policies. Because high GDP growth has been accompanied by high employment growth, GDP per capita gains have been more modest. Still, Spain reduced its per-capita income gap vis-à-vis the highest-income euro area economies by over 3 percentage points during 2022-24, helped by an acceleration in productivity growth. Despite recent progress in reducing the unemployment rate, it remains the highest in the euro area at about 11 percent. Looking through recent volatility, disinflation has continued to proceed steadily.

    Growth is projected to remain robust in the near term and to slow gradually thereafter as its recent drivers normalize, with risks predominantly to the downside. Growth should remain strong at 2.5 percent in 2025 before declining to about 1.8 percent next year, close to its medium-term potential. On the demand side, tourism is expected to expand at a slower rate, while a weaker global environment—including elevated trade policy uncertainty and US tariffs—will also weigh on external demand. This drag is expected to be partly offset by robust domestic demand, including a pick-up in investment. On the supply side, a gradual slowdown in net migration and demographic aging will slowly weigh on labor force gains. Key downside risks include an escalation of trade measures, particularly those involving the EU, and domestic political fragmentation, which could hamper the response of fiscal policy in the event Spain’s deficit reduction fell short of its commitments or market concerns about sovereign risks were to emerge.

    The authorities should seize upon the strong growth momentum to more swiftly rebuild fiscal space and reduce sovereign debt risks, in the context of an enhanced medium-term fiscal plan. Staff projects that, in the absence of further consolidation measures besides social security contribution increases from the 2021-2023 pension reforms and the non-indexation of PIT brackets (about 1 percent of GDP overall over 2025-29), the deficit would stabilize above 2 percent of GDP by 2030, while the debt-to-GDP ratio would remain above 90 percent before rising again in the longer term as fiscal pressures from aging intensify. Weighing fiscal risks on the one hand, and the economy’s strong cyclical position on the other, staff recommends frontloading the authorities’ planned 3 percent of GDP adjustment over 2025-2029 rather than 2025-2031. This effort, which would require about 2 percentage points of GDP in new measures, should be underpinned by an enhanced medium-term fiscal plan that lays out well-identified tax increase and spending reduction priorities. Harmonizing VAT and enhancing environmental taxation would deliver the recommended effort while reducing economic distortions. Given the widening projected gap between pension expenditures and social security contributions over the coming decades, pension reforms should also be undertaken, prioritizing employment-friendly options. Should downside risks materialize, fiscal policy should remain flexible, letting automatic stabilizers play out. Temporary discretionary support should be considered only in the event of a severe shock and provided sovereign funding costs remain low.

    Systemic risks in the financial system remain low but ongoing efforts to further bolster its resilience should be maintained. Banks are well-capitalized, liquid, and profitable, though capital ratios are still somewhat below euro area peers. Household and corporate balance sheets are sound, supported by low debt and rising incomes. The rapid growth in house prices has eroded affordability and should be primarily addressed through measures that stimulate housing supply. While it does currently not raise financial stability risks, pre-emptive borrower-based measures should be considered if there were early signs of an easing in lending standards. Staff supports the ongoing phasing-in of the one-percent positive neutral CCyB and encourages continued implementation of other 2024 FSAP recommendations to further enhance resilience.

    Fostering income-per-capita convergence toward higher-income advanced economies requires further raising the employment rate and boosting productivity. Despite recent progress, Spain still has one of the lowest employment rates in Europe, and its (hourly labor) productivity gap vis-à-vis the euro area—which has itself been falling behind the US—remains about as wide as it was 25 years ago. Enhancing activation policies and financial incentives for jobseekers is key to durably reducing unemployment to single digits. The planned reduction of the working week in the private sector should be carefully designed to mitigate adverse effects on output and workers’ incomes, with a major role for collective bargaining including in setting the level and remuneration of overtime. Closing the productivity gap will require reforms that facilitate firms’ scaling-up and innovation. These include completing both the Spanish and EU single markets for goods and services, streamlining firm size-related tax and regulatory thresholds, boosting venture capital through progress toward the CMU complemented by domestic incentives, and promoting excellence in higher education—including through greater autonomy and performance-based funding of universities.

    Spain: Selected Economic Indicators

    (Annual percentage change, unless noted otherwise)

    Projections 1/

    2022

    2023

    2024

    2025

    2026

    2027

    Demand and supply in constant prices

    Gross domestic product

    6.2

    2.7

    3.2

    2.5

    1.8

    1.7

    Private consumption

    4.8

    1.8

    2.9

    2.1

    2.0

    1.9

    Public consumption

    0.6

    5.2

    4.1

    3.5

    1.7

    1.9

    Gross fixed investment

    3.3

    2.1

    3.0

    5.0

    2.1

    1.2

    Total domestic demand

    3.9

    1.7

    2.9

    2.9

    2.0

    1.8

    Net exports (contribution to growth)

    2.5

    1.2

    0.4

    -0.2

    -0.1

    0.0

    Exports of goods and services

    15.0

    3.3

    3.4

    2.2

    2.5

    3.1

    Imports of goods and services

    7.8

    0.4

    2.6

    3.0

    3.2

    3.4

    Potential output 

    2.1

    2.7

    2.6

    2.6

    2.3

    2.1

    Output gap (percent of potential)

    1.1

    1.1

    1.6

    1.6

    1.1

    0.7

    Prices

    GDP deflator

    4.7

    6.2

    3.0

    2.4

    2.4

    2.4

    Headline Inflation (average)

    8.3

    3.4

    2.9

    2.2

    2.0

    2.1

    Headline Inflation (end of period)

    5.5

    3.3

    2.8

    1.9

    1.9

    2.1

    Core inflation (average)

    5.2

    5.8

    3.0

    1.9

    2.0

    2.0

    Core inflation (end of period)

    6.7

    4.0

    2.6

    1.8

    2.0

    2.0

    Employment and wages

    Unemployment rate (percent of total labor force)

    13.0

    12.2

    11.3

    11.1

    11.0

    11.0

    Labor costs, private sector

    2.6

    5.6

    4.7

    3.5

    3.4

    3.4

    Employment

    3.6

    3.1

    2.2

    1.3

    0.9

    0.7

    Balance of payments (percent of GDP)

    Current account balance

    0.4

    2.7

    3.0

    2.5

    2.4

    2.2

    Net international investment position

    -57.7

    -51.3

    -44.0

    -38.5

    -33.5

    -29.7

    Public finance (percent of GDP)

    General government balance

    -4.6

    -3.5

    -3.2

    -2.8

    -2.4

    -2.3

    Primary balance

    -2.5

    -1.7

    -1.3

    -0.6

    0.1

    0.1

    Structural balance

    -5.3

    -4.1

    -3.1

    -3.2

    -2.8

    -2.7

    General government debt

    109.4

    105.0

    101.8

    100.7

    99.1

    97.7
           

    Sources: IMF, World Economic Outlook; data provided by the authorities; and IMF staff estimates.

    1/ The projections incorporate spending financed by the EU Recovery and Resilience Facility (including the grant and the loan component) amounting to about 0.7, 1.7, 1.3 and 0.3 percent of GDP from 2024 to 2027.
                           

    [1] Under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, the IMF holds bilateral discussions with members, usually every year. A staff team visits the country, collects economic and financial information, and discusses with officials the country’s economic developments and policies. On return to headquarters, the staff prepares a report, which forms the basis for discussion by the Executive Board.

    [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/en/Countries/ESP page.

    [3] At the conclusion of the discussion, the Managing Director, as Chairman 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: Camila Perez

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

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/06/05/pr25183-spain-imf-executive-board-concludes-2025-article-iv-consultation-with-spain

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Pfluger Announces Hearing on Rise in Antisemitic, Anti-Israel Terror Attacks on U.S. Soil

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11)

    This week, Chairman Pfluger (R-TX) and Chairman Mark E. Green, MD (R-TN) also sent a letter to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem requesting the alien file for the suspect, an Egyptian national named Mohamed Sabry Soliman, which will include information on his expired visa, work authorization, and asylum application.

    HEARING DETAILS:

    What: A Subcommittee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence hearing entitled, “The Rise of Anti-Israel Extremist Groups and Their Threat to U.S. National Security”

    When: Wednesday, June 11,at 10:30 AM EDT

    Where:310 Cannon House Office Building

    Watch: Witness testimony will be added here. The hearing will be livestreamed on YouTube and will be open to the public and press. Press must RSVP in advance.

    WITNESSES:

    Kerry Sleeper

    Deputy Director, Intelligence and Information Sharing, Secure Community Network

    Oren Segal

    Senior Vice President, Counter-Extremism and Intelligence, Anti-Defamation League

    Additional witnesses will be announced and are by invitation only.

    BACKGROUND:

    In 2024, Chairmen Pfluger and Green sent a letter to then-DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Christopher Wray, requesting information and documents pertaining to any efforts by DHS and the FBI to assist law enforcement and other partners in response to anti-Semitic, pro-Hamas mobs on college campuses.

    In 2023, the Subcommittee held a roundtable on the growing trend of antisemitism on U.S. college campuses in the aftermath of the October 7 attacks against Israel by Hamas terrorists.

    In October 2024, an illegal alien who had been released into the country under the Biden-Harris administration shot and killed a Jewish man on his way to his Chicago Synagogue.

    In February, Chairman Pfluger introduced the “Generative AI Terrorism Risk Assessment Act,” which would require DHS to conduct annual assessments on terrorism threats to the U.S. posed by terrorist organizations, like ISIS and al Qaeda, utilizing generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) applications for terroristic activity. Chairman Pfluger also reintroduced the “Countering Online Radicalization and Terrorism Act,” legislation requiring DHS to conduct annual assessments on terrorism threats posed to the United States by terrorist organizations like ISIS, al Qaeda, Hamas, Hezbollah, and others, utilizing foreign cloud-based mobile and desktop messaging applications like Telegram.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Aguilar: ‘We all are going to die’ is the Republican health care plan

    Source: US House of Representatives – Democratic Caucus

    The following text contains opinion that is not, or not necessarily, that of MIL-OSI – June 04, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, House Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar and Vice Chair Ted Lieu held a press conference on Republicans telling the American people that “We all are going to die” in response to concerns that the Republican Budget, which will throw millions of Americans off their health insurance, may lead to unnecessary deaths. 

    CHAIRMAN AGUILAR: Good morning. Let me begin by saying our Caucus heard an update on the situation in Boulder, Colorado and the horrendous attack that injured 12 innocent people. Antisemitism has no place in American life. We stand with the Jewish community in this difficult hour and always. 

    Republicans in Congress don’t care if your health care is too expensive. And they don’t care if you can’t afford your medical bills. They voted for what Elon Musk called a “disgusting abomination,” a Republican Budget that throws millions of Americans off of their health insurance. Republicans don’t care that their tariffs are raising your prices across the board and making it harder to make ends meet. They voted to take away food assistance for families, seniors and veterans. And they’ll continue to reward billionaire donors who keep them in office with tax breaks, so they can hold on to power. They’re getting rich off stock trades while working people worry about losing their jobs. When confronted with the truth, they often just lie. Or they show their true colors, like one Republican Senator did, by dismissing concerns that Medicaid cuts might lead to unnecessary deaths as a result of their “disgusting abomination,” kicking millions off their health care. “We all are going to die,” she said. That is the Republican health care plan in a nutshell. And that’s why Republicans can’t be trusted to make health care, or anything else, more affordable for working families. Vice Chair Ted Lieu.

    VICE CHAIR LIEU: Thank you, Chairman Aguilar. I also condemn the horrific terrorist attack in Boulder, Colorado. About a dozen people were burned, some critically, because of a terrorist who threw essentially Molotov cocktails at a group of Jewish Americans. And let me just be clear: Hamas is a genocidal, homicidal, extreme terrorist organization who attacked Israel, not the other way around. And now, Jewish Americans in America are fearing for their safety because of folks who are committing brazen acts of antisemitism. We need to call it out when we see it, and I urge that the person be prosecuted to the fullest extent of law who committed this heinous terrorist attack.

    I’d like to now talk about Senator Joni Ernst’s statement that “we all are going to die.” She is correct that we all are going to die, but it shouldn’t be at the hands of Republican legislation, and the Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill is going to cause unnecessary death. So then, Senator Ernst doubled down on her statement, and did a video of herself walking through a cemetery, again, talking about what she said. And then she ended by citing Jesus. So I’m just a simple Catholic, but let me just tell you I actually read the Gospels, and Jesus goes around healing people. That’s what he does, right? He heals a woman who is blind, heals a person who had leprosy, he heals a person who is paralyzed, 41 acts of healing in the Gospel. That’s what Jesus did in terms of acts. So it’s exactly the opposite of what Senator Ernst is saying. And call me old-fashioned, but I think the goal of government is not to hasten the deaths of Americans, it is to make the lives of Americans better. And clearly, this Big Ugly Bill is not going to do that. And now we see some Republican Members who are opposed to it, because, guess what? They didn’t read the bill. 

    So Marjorie Taylor Greene, yesterday, opposes a provision which is a 10-year moratorium on states regulating artificial intelligence. So I agree with Marjorie Taylor Greene, once every 100 years, this is that time. I agree that this 10-year provision is extreme. It’s going to cause unnecessary harm. And look, I think the federal government is fine doing preemption when we preempt with something. You can’t just preempt with nothing. This is a bad provision, and I hope the Senate will take out this 10-year moratorium.

    Video of the full press conference and Q&A can be viewed here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Ivey Taps Cynthia Lee Almond to Serve as Public Service Commission President

    Source: US State of Alabama

    MONTGOMERY – Governor Kay Ivey on Friday announced she is tapping Cynthia Lee Almond to serve as president of the Public Service Commission. This fills the seat previously held by Twinkle Cavanaugh, who has taken a role with the Trump Administration.

    “Cynthia has proven to be an extremely effective public servant and leader, and I am confident the people of Alabama will be even better served when she takes the helm at the Public Service Commission,” said Governor Ivey. “Since 2021, I have been able to count on Cynthia to get real, meaningful work done in the Legislature, and while I know the people of Tuscaloosa will miss her representation in the State House, every person across this state will now benefit from her leadership on the Public Service Commission.”

    As president, Almond will lead the three-person board responsible for regulating utilities in Alabama. Almond is a seasoned attorney and currently works in the private practice of law. She also takes the helm at the Public Service Commission after serving as a Republican member of the Alabama House of Representatives for District 63.

    Almond brings a wealth of experience to the Public Service Commission and has a solid track-record of serving the people she represents well, whether that be in the House of Representatives or as an attorney. She works directly with a variety of people through her legal work, which has largely concentrated on estate planning, as well as probate, business law and real estate. Additionally, she owns a title company. In the State House, she served as chair of the Tuscaloosa County Local Legislative Delegation and as a member of the Ways and Means Education Committee, Judiciary Committee, Rules Committee and as vice-chair of the Ethics and Campaign Finance Committee.

    Throughout her tenure in the Legislature, Almond has been a partner to Governor Ivey on priorities like the governor’s Safe Alabama public safety package, the Alabama School of Healthcare Sciences, and the Game Plan economic development legislation, among other areas.

    Almond is a true public servant, well-respected and recognized as a strong leader by her peers. Previously, she served four terms on the Tuscaloosa City Council where she was elected president pro tem by her colleagues on the Council, as well as chair of the Finance committee.

    “I am honored to have been asked by Governor Ivey to fill this important position. It is one I accept with great enthusiasm,” said Almond. “I know how important this commission is to the people of Alabama and to the industry sectors it regulates. I believe my training as an attorney and legislator will prove to be helpful in performing this role. I appreciate greatly the confidence shown in me by Governor Ivey, and I will work hard for her and for this great state of Alabama.”

    Almond attended Vanderbilt University and is a graduate of both The University of Alabama and University of Alabama School of Law.

    Born and raised in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Almond gives much back to the community today. She is a graduate of Leadership Alabama and was co-chair for its West Alabama Regional Council. She serves as a Sunday School teacher at First United Methodist Church, has two children and enjoys a variety of activities from playing the piano and tennis to mountain bike riding and more.

    Since 2021, she has represented the people of House District 63 effectively and plans to vacate her seat in the Legislature on Sunday, June 15 ahead of joining the Public Service Commission. The Public Service Commission appointment is effective Monday, June 16, which is when the governor will swear her in as president.

    An official headshot of Cynthia Lee Almond is attached.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: N.C. Division of Parks and Recreation Seeks Public Input on Equine State Trail Master Plan

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: N.C. Division of Parks and Recreation Seeks Public Input on Equine State Trail Master Plan

    N.C. Division of Parks and Recreation Seeks Public Input on Equine State Trail Master Plan
    jejohnson6

    The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources’ Division of Parks and Recreation is seeking input on the Equine State Trail Master Plan. The master plan will be a 20-year plan that identifies a 10-mile-wide corridor for the trail.

    Authorized in 2023 by the General Assembly, the Equine State Trail is the 14th state trail. It is envisioned to be an equestrian trail that loops through eight counties, including Chatham, Cumberland, Harnett, Hoke, Lee, Montgomery, Moore, and Richmond counties. The trail has opportunities to connect Jordan Lake State Recreation Area, Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve, Carvers Creek State Park, and Raven Rock State Park, and will offer a variety of equestrian recreation.

    Two public open houses will be held — June 18 at Raven Rock State Park auditorium and June 25 at Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve auditorium. Both open houses will be from 5-7 p.m. and attendees can drop in any time. Members of the public are encouraged to attend and can expect to spend about 30 minutes to review, discuss and weigh in on their preferred recreational amenities for the trail.

    Amenities that may be considered for the master plan include the trail surface type, campgrounds, trailheads, recreational user types, and connection opportunities within the eight identified counties.

    An online public survey is available for those who cannot attend the public meetings. Take the survey at: http://www.trails.nc.gov/eqst-survey.

    About North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation
    The Division of Parks and Recreation manages more than 264,000 acres of iconic landscape within North Carolina’s state parks, state recreation areas and state natural areas. It administers the N.C. Parks and Recreation Trust Fund, including its local grants program, as well as a state trails program, North Carolina Natural and Scenic Rivers and more, all with a mission dedicated to conservation, recreation and education. The state parks system welcomes more than 19 million visitors annually.

    About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
    The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.

    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    Jun 5, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dr. Craig Friend to Discuss New Book ‘Becoming Lunsford Lane’ on June 24 at N.C. Capitol

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Dr. Craig Friend to Discuss New Book ‘Becoming Lunsford Lane’ on June 24 at N.C. Capitol

    Dr. Craig Friend to Discuss New Book ‘Becoming Lunsford Lane’ on June 24 at N.C. Capitol
    jejohnson6

    The North Carolina State Capitol will host a free lecture by Dr. Craig Friend about his new book “Becoming Lunsford Lane: The Lives of An American Aeneas” on June 24 at 6 p.m. The State Capitol is administered by the N.C. Division of State Historic Sites within the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

    By challenging the rules of enslavement and, later, pushing the boundaries of free citizenship in North Carolina, Lunsford Lane (1803-79) became a folk hero to many enslaved Southerners, as well as a generation of abolitionists. Author of a unique “slave narrative” and a speaking partner with some of the era’s greatest orators, including William Lloyd Garrison, Henry Highland Garnett, William Wells Brown, and Frederick Douglass, Lane became a celebrity who watched as the persona he created gradually faltered and failed him and his family.

    In the first biography of Lunsford Lane based on original and extensive research, Craig Thompson Friend portrays a man who dreamed beyond his enslavement, delivered himself and his family from bondage, and spun a story of his life that brought him lasting freedom and fleeting fame. Lane’s story is a biography for our times: a man searching to define life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness in a changing American society scarred by contentious politics, economic challenges, class tensions, loss of political rights, and racial violence.

    Craig Thompson Friend is a professor of history at North Carolina State University. He is the author of “Kentucke’s Frontiers,” winner of the 2011 Governor’s Award, and “Along the Maysville Road: The Early Republic in the Trans-Appalachian West.” For more information about the event, visit the site’s Eventbrite page Becoming Lunsford Lane: Book Talk with Dr. Craig Friend Tickets, Tue, Jun 24, 2025 at 6:00 PM | Eventbrite

    The State Capitol’s mission is to preserve and interpret the history, architecture, and function of the 1840 building and Union Square. The Capitol is open to visitors Monday-Saturday and is located at 1 E. Edenton St. in downtown Raleigh. For additional information please call 984-867-8340 or visit https://historicsites.nc.gov/capitol.

    About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
    The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.

    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    Jun 5, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: First Farm-Life School to be Featured on N.C. Highway Historical Marker

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: First Farm-Life School to be Featured on N.C. Highway Historical Marker

    First Farm-Life School to be Featured on N.C. Highway Historical Marker
    jejohnson6

    Schools built in the early 20th century to provide education in rural areas of the state soon will be recognized with a North Carolina Highway Historical Marker. The N.C. Historical Marker Program is part of the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

    The marker commemorating Craven County Farm Life School, the first farm life school, will be dedicated at the intersection of U.S. Hwy 17 and Farm Life Avenue in Vanceboro, N.C. on Thursday, June 12 at 4 p.m.

    Authorized in 1911 by a General Assembly appropriation, farm life schools were promoted by state superintendent J.Y. Joyner and various farm groups. These schools were required to offer a standard high school education in addition to classes and practical experience in vocational agriculture and home economics.

    If a local governmental unit provided facilities (including dormitories for boys and girls) for $25,000 and then pledged $2,500 for operating expenses each year, the state would match the latter amount. Almost immediately, five counties took advantage of the offer, and by 1916, 21 farm-life schools were in operation.  

    Craven County Farm Life School opened on Nov. 4, 1913, with an on-site celebration and 30 enrolled students.  

    A second school — Rowan Farm-Life School in China Grove — opened in 1914 and was such a success that in 1921 the regular China Grove High School merged with it and shared the farm campus.  

    In Nash County, local farmer Tom Jones donated 25 acres of land, and the community voted for an additional $10,000 in bonds for buildings for the Red Oak Farm-Life High School.  

    Students within walking or horse-riding distances paid no tuition, but boarding students paid $12.50 per month. The boys cut wood for fires, and the girls cooked and waited on tables. Crop rotation, contour plowing, selection of nutritious foods, and improved homemaking practices were emphasized along with the academic curriculum.  

    For more information about the historical marker, please visit  https://www.dncr.nc.gov/blog/2024/08/09/farm-life-schools-c-89, or call (919) 814-6625   

    The Highway Historical Marker Program is a collaboration between the N.C. departments of Natural and Cultural Resources and Transportation.

    About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
    The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.

    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    Jun 5, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chimney Rock State Park to Reopen June 27

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Chimney Rock State Park to Reopen June 27

    Chimney Rock State Park to Reopen June 27
    jejohnson6

    The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources and N.C. State Parks announced today that Chimney Rock State Park and the Chimney Rock attraction will reopen to visitors on Friday, June 27, exactly nine months after Hurricane Helene devastated the surrounding communities.

    “Chimney Rock is a western North Carolina jewel,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Reopening the state park will draw tourists back to this area. I am pleased that DNCR, DOT, and local leaders in Chimney Rock were able to get this park open for people to enjoy and so local businesses can thrive.”

    Access to the park has been limited since September 2024 due to the loss of the park entrance bridge. The N.C. Department of Transportation recently completed work on a temporary bridge and repairs to the park’s roads.

    “The reopening of this iconic park is another positive step toward recovery in western North Carolina,” said N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources Secretary Pamela B. Cashwell. “We could not reopen Chimney Rock without the swift work of the N.C. Department of Transportation and the leadership from Governor Josh Stein and his recovery team.”

    “We are grateful for the strong partnership with the local communities and their leadership, along with Chimney Rock Management,” said State Parks Director Brian Strong. “We are so excited to welcome visitors back to Chimney Rock State Park.”

    Park hours and additional details will be announced soon. Advance reservations will be required to access the Chimney Rock attraction; the ticketing reservation system at chimneyrockpark.com will go live approximately one week prior to the reopening. Capacity will be limited due to ongoing recovery and rebuilding efforts in the area.

    Located in Rutherford County, Chimney Rock State Park offers some of North Carolina’s most dramatic mountain scenery, overlooking Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure. For a fee, visitors can take an elevator or hike to the top of the park’s namesake, a 315-foot freestanding rock spire. James Ledgerwood is the park superintendent.

    About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
    The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.

    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    Jun 6, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rhode Island Man Sentenced for Setting Fires Around the Exterior of a Church and Assaulting Federal Officers

    Source: US State of California

    Kevin Colantonio, 36, pleaded guilty in February 2025 to malicious damage by means of fire, obstruction of free exercise of religious beliefs, and two counts of assault on a federal officer. He was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Court Chief Judge John J. McConnell Jr., to more than six years in federal prison. He intentionally set multiple fires around the exterior of a predominantly black church in North Providence, RI, in February 2024, and assaulted two federal correctional officers while detained at a federal detention center following his arrest.

    “This defendant acted with disdain against people of faith and complete disregard for law enforcement officers,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon. “The Civil Rights Division will continue to vigorously prosecute anti-Christian bias in the United States and ensure Americans are free to worship without fear.”

    Colantonio previously admitted to a federal judge that on Feb. 11, 2024, he used gasoline and a lighter he purchased minutes earlier at a gas station within walking distance of Shiloh Gospel Temple Ministries, to ignite five fires around the exterior of the church. The fires were quickly extinguished by North Providence officers, but not before the church sustained some damage.

    During a Feb. 15, 2024, court-authorized search of Colantonio’s residence, an accelerant detection canine indicated a positive reaction on several items of seized clothing. These items matched the clothing Colantonio was wearing on the night of the arson, based upon surveillance footage. Colantonio admitted to setting the fires and assaulting the corrections officers.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Sara Miron Bloom for the District of Rhode Island and the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter I. Roklan for the District of Rhode Island and Taylor Payne of the Criminal Section of the Civil Rights Division are prosecuting the case.

    The fires set at the Shiloh Gospel Temple Ministries were investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with members of the North Providence, RI, Police Department and the Rhode Island State Fire Marshal’s Office. The assault of the federal officers was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: The Hawaii National Guard conducts Urban Rescue training during Pacific Partnership 2025 in Virac, Philippines [Image 1 of 4]

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

    Issued by: on

    VIRAC, Philippines (June 5, 2025) – Hawaii National Guardsmen and personnel from the Armed Forces of the Philippines instruct local emergency responders and civilian authorities on how to breach a simulated collapsed building in Virac, Philippines, June 5, 2025. This effort is part of a two-week urban rescue training exercise supporting the humanitarian assistance and disaster response objectives of Pacific Partnership 2025. Now in its 21st iteration, Pacific Partnership series is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster management preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Pacific Partnership works collaboratively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jordan Jennings)

    Date Taken: 06.05.2025
    Date Posted: 06.06.2025 10:13
    Photo ID: 9089135
    VIRIN: 250605-N-YV347-1064
    Resolution: 6823×4549
    Size: 11.44 MB
    Location: VIRAC, PH
    Web Views: 0
    Downloads: 0

    PUBLIC DOMAIN  

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  • MIL-OSI Security: The Hawaii National Guard conducts Urban Rescue training during Pacific Partnership 2025 in Virac, Philippines [Image 3 of 4]

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

    Issued by: on

    VIRAC, Philippines (June 5, 2025) – Hawaii National Guardsmen and personnel from the
    Armed Forces of the Philippines instruct local emergency responders and civilian authorities on how to perform a controlled descent in Virac, Philippines, June 5, 2025. This effort is part of a two-week urban rescue training exercise supporting the humanitarian assistance and disaster response objectives of Pacific Partnership 2025. Now in its 21st iteration, Pacific Partnership series is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster management preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Pacific Partnership works collaboratively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jordan Jennings)

    Date Taken: 06.05.2025
    Date Posted: 06.06.2025 10:13
    Photo ID: 9089138
    VIRIN: 250605-N-YV347-1088
    Resolution: 6893×4595
    Size: 18.91 MB
    Location: VIRAC, PH
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  • MIL-OSI Security: CFE-DM Hosts Humanitarian Assistance Disaster Response Workshop during Pacific Partnership 2025 in Virac, Philippines [Image 1 of 2]

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

    Issued by: on

    VIRAC, Philippines (June 6, 2025) – Center for Excellence in Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance representative Mike Wiley leads a Humanitarian Assistance Disaster Response workshop with Armed Forces of the Philippines personnel, local emergency responders, and civilian authorities in Virac, Philippines, June 6, 2025. This effort is part of a two-week urban rescue training exercise supporting the humanitarian assistance and disaster response objectives of Pacific Partnership 2025. Now in its 21st iteration, Pacific Partnership series is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster management preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Pacific Partnership works collaboratively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jordan Jennings)

    Date Taken: 06.06.2025
    Date Posted: 06.06.2025 10:17
    Photo ID: 9089153
    VIRIN: 250606-N-YV347-1013
    Resolution: 8256×5504
    Size: 32 MB
    Location: VIRAC, PH
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  • MIL-OSI Security: North Dakota Man and Woman Sentenced to Lengthy Terms in Federal Prison for Conspiring to Distribute Methamphetamine

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PIERRE – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann has sentenced a North Park, North Dakota, man and a Bismarck, North Dakota, woman who were convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencings took place on June 2, 2025.

    Richard Rasmusson, age 44 , was sentenced to ten years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. He was further ordered to pay a $1,000 fine and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

    Leslie Apple, age 40, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. She was ordered to pay a $1,000 fine and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

    Rasmusson and Apple were indicted by a federal grand jury in June 2024. Rasmusson pleaded guilty on November 4, 2024. Apple pleaded guilty on November 18, 2024.

    These convictions stemmed from drug distribution activity that occurred between January 2024 and April 2024. During that time period, Rasmusson and Apple took methamphetamine from North Dakota to distribute in the Mobridge, South Dakota, area. On April 5, 2024, Rasmusson and Apple were arrested in Mobridge while possessing 104 grams of pure methamphetamine.

    This case was investigated by the FBI Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the Mobridge Police Department, and the Walworth County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Dilges prosecuted the case.

    Both Rasmusson and Apple were immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Aberdeen Man Found Guilty of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SIOUX FALLS – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a jury has convicted David Fowler, age 49, of Aberdeen, South Dakota, of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance following a two-day jury trial in federal district court in Aberdeen, South Dakota. The verdict was returned on June 4, 2025.

    The charges carry a maximum penalty of life in federal prison and/or a $1,000,000 fine, up to life on supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

    David Fowler was indicted by a federal grand jury in November 2024.

    In March and April 2024, investigators with the Brown County Sheriff’s Office conducted three controlled purchases of methamphetamine from Fowler, in amounts ranging from 10-21 grams. Authorities then obtained a search warrant for Fowler’s home, where 56 grams of methamphetamine were located. Fowler’s supplier was also arrested en route to his residence with an additional 344 grams of methamphetamine. The investigation revealed the methamphetamine was being mailed from California to a local source in Aberdeen, where it was then sold to sub-distributors, including Fowler. In total, Fowler purchased five packages of methamphetamine, totaling 2.5 pounds.

    This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Brown County Sheriff’s Office, the Aberdeen Police Department, and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Joyce prosecuted the case.

    A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing will take place on September 8, 2025. The defendant was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Illegal Aliens Face Federal Charges in Cobb County Methamphetamine Lab Bust

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ATLANTA – Juan Perez-Maldonado and Francisco Garcia Gomez, both illegal aliens from Mexico, appeared in federal court on June 4, 2025, following their arrests on charges of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Garcia Gomez and a third illegal alien from Mexico, Filemon Hernandez-Jijon, were also charged with possession of a firearm by an alien unlawfully present in the United States. 

    “Our law enforcement partners worked swiftly to disrupt a suburban drug lab, seize numerous firearms, and arrest two illegal aliens allegedly responsible for manufacturing and distributing methamphetamine,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “Criminals who traffic illegal drugs in our communities will be identified, found, and prosecuted with deliberate speed.”

    “DEA remains focused on keeping America safe and protecting the homeland from by removing dangerous drugs from our communities and bringing criminals to justice,” said Jae W. Chung, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Atlanta Division. “Keeping our communities safe is our highest priority.”

    According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges, and other information presented in court: On June 3, 2025, DEA agents saw Filemon Hernandez-Jijon allegedly supply two kilograms of methamphetamine to a drug customer in the Smyrna, Georgia area. Law enforcement later observed Hernandez-Jijon traveling to and from a mobile home located in Marietta, Georgia.

    Hours later, DEA agents executed a federal search warrant at the mobile home and encountered Juan Perez-Maldonado and Francisco Garcia Gomez there. A third person fled the scene. Inside the mobile home, agents discovered an active laboratory used to convert liquid methamphetamine into a crystal-like form, as well as at least 13 kilograms of what appeared to be the finished drug product. In addition, agents located two handguns, including one hidden in the tank of a toilet, and money remitter receipts bearing Garcia Gomez’s and Hernandez-Jijon’s names. Outside the home, agents recovered acetone, several empty coolers, and other materials commonly used to produce crystalized methamphetamine.

    In connection with this investigation, agents executed another federal search warrant at an apartment in Smyrna. In a baby’s crib, agents located a bag containing a loaded Glock pistol, two additional loaded firearm magazines, and identification for Perez-Maldonado. Elsewhere in the apartment, agents found a Springfield XD firearm and a mechanical press used to press powder into kilogram bricks.

    The investigation further revealed that Perez-Maldonado and Hernandez-Jijon had been previously deported and removed from the United States.

    Hernandez-Jijon is currently a fugitive. If you have any information on the whereabouts of Hernandez-Jijon, please contact your local law enforcement agency.

    Members of the public are reminded that the complaint only contains charges. The defendants are presumed innocent of the charges, and it will be the government’s burden to prove the defendants’ guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.

    This case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with valuable assistance provided from the Marietta-Cobb-Smyrna Narcotics Unit and the DeKalb County Police Department – HIDTA Task Force.

    Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Schwarzl and Assistant U.S. Attorney Rebeca M. Ojeda are prosecuting the case.

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

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Atlanta recommends parents and children learn about the dangers of drugs at the following web site: www.justthinktwice.gov.

    For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6000. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pittsburgh Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Supplying Cocaine to Street Gang

    Source: US FBI

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 120 months of imprisonment, to be followed by eight years of supervised release, on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

    United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV imposed the sentence on Anthony Coker, 48, on June 4, 2025.

    According to information presented to the Court, between July 2022 and June 2023, Coker supplied cocaine and crack cocaine to members of the Drizzy Gang, who then redistributed the drugs in the Hill District neighborhood of Pittsburgh.

    Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Stickman stated that the defendant’s crimes victimized addicts, their families, and the Hill District neighborhood, and encouraged the defendant to turn his life around following his sentence.

    Assistant United States Attorney Katherine C. Jordan prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

    Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Coker.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Shiprock Man Charged with Unlawfully Possessing a Firearm

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man was charged by indictment with being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.

    According to court documents, in the morning hours of May 15, 2025, Jay Ray Kelly, 39, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, was seen walking in Shiprock, firing a handgun into the air. Concerned citizens called police. Later that morning, police arrested Kelly with a handgun and 155 rounds of ammunition in a backpack.

    Kelly is charged federally with unlawfully possessing a firearm and ammunition. In 2006, Kelly was convicted in the District of New Mexico for possessing a firearm in a school zone. Because of this 2006 federal felony conviction, Kelly was prohibited from possessing all firearms and ammunition.

    U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Philip Russell, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.

    The Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary C. Jones is prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sanostee Man Pleads Guilty to Assault Charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBUQUERQUE – A Sanostee man pleaded guilty to a violent assault that left a woman seriously injured.

    According to court records, Nathan Mescale, 36, and enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, admitted that on December 2 and December 3, 2023, he assaulted Jane Doe, and the assault caused her serious bodily injury.

    At sentencing, Mescale faces a maximum of 10 years in prison. Upon his release from prison, Mescale will be subject to up to three years of supervised release.

    U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Philip Russell, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

    The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with the assistance of the Navajo Police Department and Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mia Ulibarri-Rubin is prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: San Antonio Man Sentenced to More than 12 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking Firearms

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SAN ANTONIO – A San Antonio man was sentenced in a federal court in San Antonio to 151 months in prison for firearms trafficking.

    According to court documents, Joel Alejandro Martinez aka Bo Jackson, 26, was identified by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives as being a frequent seller of stolen firearms in online chat groups. On Jan. 10, 2024, Martinez posted two pistols for sale and agreed to sell them at a location in San Antonio. He stated that he did not have a car but his mother, codefendant Margarita Hernandez Martinez, would drive him. On Feb. 28, 2024, at the agreed upon time, Martinez arrived at the location, driven by his mother, and unloaded a black rifle case from the truck, placed it in the backseat of the purchaser’s vehicle, and got in the front seat of the purchaser’s car. The purchaser gave Martinez $1,100 in cash for the .308 caliber rifle.

    Later that day, Martinez contacted the purchaser to ask what else they might be interested in purchasing. The purchaser, an undercover ATF agent, indicated that they purchase all sorts of firearms but also deal in “cheap throwaways stolen.” Martinez responded to the undercover agent, “I got you,” and indicated that he could supply AR-style rifles and pistols. He later told the undercover that he purchased stolen or crime-involved guns in large batches and agreed to sell four pistols to the undercover for $1,600. In another conversation, the agent told Martinez that he, “buys them for cheap and will move them to Mexico.”

    The undercover agent met with Martinez—driven by his mother—three more times between March 5, 2024 and April 11, 2024, to conduct sales of firearms, at least one of which Martinez knew and had reasonable cause to believe was stolen.

    Martinez’s mother, Hernandez Martinez, was sentenced on April 25 to 40 months in prison for aiding and abetting.

    Federal District Court Judge Jason K. Pulliam sentenced both defendants.

    U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas made the announcement.

    The ATF investigated the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Zack Parsons prosecuted the case.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Puts Spotlight on Affiliate Program, Turning Influence Into Income for Crypto Creators

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, June 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, is drawing attention to its affiliate program as a streamlined path for creators, educators, and crypto communities to turn engagement into earnings. Built on the spirit of Web3, the program dishes out generous commissions, layered rewards, and handy tools to help partners grow their clout—and their crypto. Supporting everyone, from solo content creators to large-scale Web3 communities, the affiliate program offers a smart, scalable model for monetizing crypto influence.

    Affiliates can earn up to 50% commission on trading fees from referred users, with extra bonuses available for milestones and high-performing partners. The program is built to scale, whether for individual content creators or larger crypto-focused communities. Real-time tracking, dedicated support, and marketing resources give affiliates tools to expand their reach and monetize effectively.

    In a first for centralized exchanges, Bitget launched an on-chain affiliate program in 2025—ushering in a new level of transparency and control. The system leverages on-chain data to verify referrals and track payouts, eliminating guesswork and giving partners greater confidence in their earnings. Affiliates can monitor everything from wallet engagement to payouts in real time, all powered by smart contracts.

    The affiliate program aligns with Bitget’s broader ecosystem, which includes copy trading, high-liquidity markets, advanced API integrations, and localized support. This makes it easier for partners to tailor campaigns, engage their audiences, and grow with the platform.

    “The creator economy in crypto is growing fast, but monetization hasn’t always kept pace,” said Vugar Usi Zade, COO at Bitget. “By bringing affiliate rewards on-chain and designing tools for creators of all sizes, Bitget is turning influence into a real, scalable revenue stream, with no smoke and mirrors.”

    With top-tier rewards, transparent tracking, and on-chain infrastructure, Bitget’s affiliate program offers a fresh take on crypto monetization. Built for those who drive conversations, shape communities, and grow the space from the ground up.

    For more information, visit here.

    About Bitget

    Established in 2018, Bitget is the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 120 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, and other cryptocurrency prices. Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a world-class multi-chain crypto wallet that offers an array of comprehensive Web3 solutions and features including wallet functionality, token swap, NFT Marketplace, DApp browser, and more.

    Bitget is at the forefront of driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World’s Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets, as well as a global partner of Turkish National athletes Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (Wrestling world champion), Samet Gümüş (Boxing gold medalist) and İlkin Aydın (Volleyball national team), to inspire the global community to embrace the future of cryptocurrency.

    For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet

    For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com

    Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/fd38e9a6-0f58-495e-b04a-3d10c64d5b52

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Auction result of Treasury Bonds – RIKB 27 0415 – RIKB 35 0917

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Series  RIKB 27 0415 RIKB 35 0917
    Settlement Date  06/12/2025 06/12/2025
    Total Amount Allocated (MM)  1,550 5,130
    All Bids Awarded At (Price / Yield)  100.735 / 7.530 100.325 / 6.950
    Total Number of Bids Received  11 22
    Total Amount of All Bids Received (MM)  1,815 6,300
    Total Number of Successful Bids  8 17
    Number of Bids Allocated in Full  8 17
    Lowest Price / Highest Yield Allocated  100.735 / 7.530 100.325 / 6.950
    Highest Price / Lowest Yield Allocated  100.825 / 7.480 100.560 / 6.920
    Lowest Price / Highest Yield Allocated in Full  100.735 / 7.530 100.325 / 6.950
    Weighted Average of Successful Bids (Price/Yield)  100.771 / 7.510 100.448 / 6.930
    Best Bid (Price / Yield)  100.825 / 7.480 100.560 / 6.920
    Worst Bid (Price / Yield)  100.700 / 7.560 100.100 / 6.980
    Weighted Average of All Bids Received (Price / Yield)  100.763 / 7.520 100.398 / 6.940
    Percentage Partial Allocation (Approximate)  100.00 % 100.00 %
    Bid to Cover Ratio  1.17 1.23

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Form 8.3 – AXA INVESTMENT MANAGERS: Unite Group plc.

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

    PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: AXA Investment Managers S.A.
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		  
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 Unite Group plc, The
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:  
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 05 June 2025
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”

    YES

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

    (a)      Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

    Class of relevant security: 25p ordinary
      Interests Short positions
      Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 4,641,048 0.95    
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives:        
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        
    TOTAL: AXA Investment Managers does not have discretion regarding voting decisions in respect of 2,688,412 shares that are included in this total 4,641,048 0.95    

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    (b)      Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:  
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:  

    3.        DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit
           

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD    		 Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position    		 Number of reference securities Price per unit
             

    (c)        Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type
    e.g. American, European etc.    		 Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
                   

    (ii)        Exercise

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. call option    		 Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit
             

    (d)        Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing
    e.g. subscription, conversion    		 Details Price per unit (if applicable)
           

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”
    None

    (b)        Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives

    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i)   the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii)   the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”
    None

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO
    Date of disclosure: 06 June 2025
    Contact name: Anthony GILSOUL
    Telephone number*: +33 1 44 45 97 54

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    *If the discloser is a natural person, a telephone number does not need to be included, provided contact information has been provided to the Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Joint Media Statement of the 34th Meeting of the ASEAN Directors-General of Customs

    Source: ASEAN – Association of SouthEast Asian Nations

    The 34th Meeting of the ASEAN Directors-General of Customs (DGs) was held on 3 – 5 June 2025 in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam. The Meeting was chaired by Mr. Azizil Hakim Brahim, Acting Controller of Customs, Royal Customs and Excise Department, Brunei Darussalam and attended by 10 ASEAN Member States (AMS) and the ASEAN Secretariat.

     

    We express concern over the recent introduction of unilateral tariffs by the U.S. This has caused uncertainty and will bring significant challenges to businesses, especially micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), as well as to global trade dynamics. The unprecedented imposition of tariffs by the U.S. will disrupt regional and global trade and investment flows, as well as supply chains, affecting businesses worldwide and hindering economic progress in ASEAN. We reaffirm our support for a predictable, transparent, free, fair, inclusive, sustainable, and rules-based multilateral trading system with the World Trade Organization (WTO) at its core, and we acknowledge the critical role that the WTO has played in fostering global economic growth. ASEAN will remain steadfast in deepening our regional economic integration, leveraging on opportunities amidst global challenges. We will continue to work together more closely, with greater unity and solidarity and remain committed to ASEAN’s rule-based trade. This collective effort will enable ASEAN to cope with and overcome the global trade crisis, minimise the impact on our people, and continue to grow sustainably.

     
    Download the full statement here
    The post Joint Media Statement of the 34th Meeting of the ASEAN Directors-General of Customs appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Premier’s statement on Eid al-Adha

    Premier David Eby has issued the following statement marking Eid al-Adha:

    “Today, Muslims in British Columbia and around the world will gather to celebrate the holiest days in the Muslim calendar.

    “Eid al-Adha, also known as the Feast of the Sacrifice, commemorates the devotion of the Prophet Ibrahim.

    “Muslims will gather to pray at their local mosque, to share meals with loved ones and to provide food to people in need. The values of charity and kindliness are central to the celebration of Eid al-Adha.

    “Eid al-Adha also marks the conclusion of Hajj, the annual pilgrimage made by Muslims to the Holy City of Mecca in Saudi Arabia.

    “This joyous and sacred celebration offers an opportunity for all of us to reflect on how fortunate we are in British Columbia to have diverse and vibrant Muslim communities with connections to every corner of the world. Those communities make tremendous contributions in making our province a better place.

    “To all who celebrate – Eid Mubarak!”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 1107, Protecting Veteran Access to Telemedicine Services Act of 2025

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    H.R. 1107 would permanently authorize certain health care professionals employed by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to prescribe, deliver, and dispense controlled substances to eligible VA patients via telemedicine, regardless of whether they have conducted an in-person medical examination. VA has had temporary authority to do so since the start of the COVID-19 public health emergency. CBO anticipates that implementing the bill would change how prescriptions for certain controlled substances are fulfilled but would not significantly change the number of medications prescribed or dispensed.

    Based on the cost of similar regulatory efforts, CBO estimates that updating VA policies and guidance documents to reflect the permanent authority in the bill would cost less than $500,000 over the 2025-2030 period; any related spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.

    The CBO staff contact for this estimate is Noah Callahan. The estimate was reviewed by Christina Hawley Anthony, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: NATO Military Committee Visits Luxembourg

    Source: NATO

    On June 5th and 6th, the NATO Military Committee conducted an official visit to Luxembourg at the invitation of the Chief of Defence, General Steve Thull. During the visit, the Committee toured the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) and Société Européenne des Satellites (SES). The Chair of the NATO Military Committee, Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, also met with the Minister of Defence of Luxembourg, Yuriko Backes.

    The Military Committee was welcomed by the Chief of Defence General Steve Thull, and received briefings on Luxembourg’s contributions to NATO operations, missions, and activities, most notably Luxembourg’s significant contributions in cyber and space capabilities.

    Following this, the Military Committee visited SES, a global leader in satellite-based content connectivity, which included a briefing on GovSat, a public-private partnership between the Government of Luxembourg and SES. GovSat provides secure and reliable governmental satellite communication services to Allied nations and NATO. The visit highlighted the importance of strengthening strategic partnerships in satellite communications, cyber security, and resilient connectivity.

    On the second day, Admiral Cavo Dragone met with Minister of Defence of Luxembourg, Yuriko Backes, to discuss the global security environment, focusing in particular on Luxembourg’s contributions to NATO. Their meeting also addressed the outcomes of the recent Meeting of NATO Ministers of Defence and Luxembourg’s approach to implementing its capability targets.

    The visit concluded at the NSPA, where the Military Committee was briefed on how the NSPA links industry and nations’ requirements to find the most efficient, effective and responsive solutions for the Alliance, its nations and partners. This included a briefing on the NSPA’s strategic initiatives in supporting Ukraine. Admiral Cavo Dragone emphasised that NATO’s strength lies in its unity, and that “more defence investment should always lead to more security’. He underscored the importance of a collective approach to planning and praised the NSPA for its close involvement in these efforts.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pacific Partnership 2025 Kicks off with urban rescue training in Virac, Philippines, June 2, 2025 [Image 9 of 9]

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

    Issued by: on

    VIRAC, Philippines (June 2, 2025) – Hawaii National Guardsmen and personnel from the
    Armed Forces of the Philippines conduct urban rescue training with local emergency responders and civilian authorities in Virac, Philippines, June 2, 2025. This effort is part of a two-week urban rescue training exercise supporting the humanitarian assistance and disaster response objectives of Pacific Partnership 2025. Now in its 21st iteration, Pacific Partnership series is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster management preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Pacific Partnership works collaboratively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jordan Jennings)

    Date Taken: 06.02.2025
    Date Posted: 06.03.2025 20:23
    Photo ID: 9081883
    VIRIN: 250602-N-YV347-2143
    Resolution: 7857×5238
    Size: 28.16 MB
    Location: VIRAC, PH
    Web Views: 31
    Downloads: 5

    PUBLIC DOMAIN  

    This work, Pacific Partnership 2025 Kicks off with urban rescue training in Virac, Philippines, June 2, 2025 [Image 9 of 9], by PO2 Jordan Jennings, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: NordVPN validated in independent security and performance evaluation by West Coast Labs

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONDON, June 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NordVPN, a leading cybersecurity service, has achieved exceptional results in independent testing conducted by West Coast Labs (WCL), a globally recognized technical research and product testing organization.

    The evaluation, carried out under AMTSO (Anti-Malware Testing Standards Organization) guidelines, assessed NordVPN’s performance across key technical categories, confirming its reliability, speed, and security.

    “Independent testing is one of the most honest measures of our work. This evaluation confirms that NordVPN delivers strong security while maintaining high levels of speed and usability — a result we’re proud to stand behind,” says Marijus Briedis, CTO at NordVPN.

    Performance and security benchmarks

    WCL’s tests used Windows 11/10 applications on a high-speed 1Gbps uplink, comparing NordVPN against three randomly selected, undisclosed competitors. The results highlighted NordVPN’s industry-leading capabilities in speed, security, and reliability.

    The WCL assessment focused on main areas of VPN performance:

    • VPN functionality – Verified that key features such as auto-launch on boot, auto-connect, internet kill switch, and split tunneling performed correctly and consistently, ensuring a secure connection setup.
    • Speed performance – Measured download/upload speeds, latency, and connection time across seven global regions. Compared to undisclosed competitors, NordVPN delivered 15.2% faster downloads, 12.4% faster uploads, and 7.9% lower latency.
    • Security and leak protection – Eight separate leak scenarios were tested, including IP address, DNS, WebRTC, and IPv6 leak checks, as well as protection during server switching, Wi-Fi hotspot changes, and mobile data transitions. The evaluation also included two advanced cases: a split-tunneling flaw and the TunnelVision attack — a known vulnerability that can be particularly challenging to defend against. NordVPN passed all scenarios, demonstrating strong leak protection even under complex conditions.
    • Website accessibility – Tested access to 100 of the most visited websites before and after connecting to the VPN. All websites remained accessible with 100% success, although a small number of Cloudflare CAPTCHA challenges were triggered in some cases while connected to NordVPN.
    • VPN time to connect – The average time for NordVPN to establish a secure tunnel was 1.67 seconds, making it 36.1% faster than the industry average. This was measured from the moment a user initiated a connection to the point when traffic was securely routed through the VPN.
    • System resource impact while connected to VPN – During browsing tests, NordVPN showed a minimal impact on system performance, with memory usage increasing by just 1.1% and processor usage by 3.8% compared to operating without a VPN connection.

    “This evaluation reflects the work we’ve put into making NordVPN fast, reliable, and secure. We design it to work quietly in the background — quick to connect, light on system resources, and ready to protect across a range of scenarios, including those that test for serious vulnerabilities like TunnelVision. It’s good to see those goals confirmed,” says Briedis.

    ABOUT WEST COAST LABS

    West Coast Labs is an independent security testing and research organization based in the US. Known for evaluating and certifying cybersecurity products, the organization assesses the effectiveness of security solutions against real-world threats, such as viruses, malware, and cyberattacks. The company strives to perform its tests “in a secure, real-world test environment and within a framework of confidentiality that ensures integrity of information and test data.” The cybersecurity industry widely regards certification by WCL as a significant achievement.

    ABOUT NORDVPN

    NordVPN is the world’s most advanced VPN service provider, chosen by millions of internet users worldwide. The service offers features such as dedicated IP, Double VPN, and Onion Over VPN servers, which help to boost your online privacy with zero tracking. One of NordVPN’s key features is Threat Protection Pro™, a tool that blocks malicious websites, trackers, and ads and scans downloads for malware. The latest creation of Nord Security, NordVPN’s parent company, is Saily — a global eSIM service. NordVPN is known for being user friendly and can offer some of the best prices on the market. This VPN provider covers 165 locations across 118 countries. For more information, visit https://nordvpn.com.

    More information: brigita@nordsec.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: AI Expert Says Musk Just Outran Big Tech in the AI Race

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BALTIMORE, June 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — New briefing reveals Elon Musk has quietly built the most powerful AI system in America — far from Silicon Valley, and without the help of Big Tech.

    In a new briefing to the public, tech entrepreneur and bestselling author James Altucher reveals what he describes as a rogue AI breakthrough — hidden in plain sight.

    According to Altucher, Elon Musk’s xAI has constructed a private supercomputer called Project Colossus, located in Memphis, Tennessee, that has already surpassed Microsoft, Google, and Meta in scale — and is set to grow exponentially before July 1.

    “He’s Already Passed Them”

    Altucher claims Musk’s project was built outside the traditional tech pipeline — with no reliance on legacy platforms or government partnerships.

    “Elon Musk has created the AI mothership… an innovation of such enormous proportion… that he has already surpassed all the leading AI developers.”

    He says the facility is now home to over 200,000 AI chips — and that the system’s scale is unlike anything in commercial use.

    “It contains not just one or two… but 200,000 units of Nvidia’s all-powerful AI chips… making it the most advanced AI facility known to man.”

    A Presidential Assist — But Not a Partnership

    While Altucher says Project Colossus is not a government project, it was unlocked by a key political move: the repeal of Biden’s AI executive order.

    “In one of his FIRST acts as President… Donald Trump overturned Executive Order #14110.”

    That reversal, he says, “cleared the path” for developers like Musk to act quickly — and without interference.

    Not ChatGPT — Something Bigger

    Altucher warns that while most people are still fixated on chatbots, Musk’s system is aiming for something far more advanced.

    “AI 2.0… gives that knowledge to intelligent machines that I believe will solve our problems for us.”

    He claims the system will soon receive a major upgrade that could “10X its power” overnight — potentially revealing what he calls the first working form of Artificial Superintelligence.

    About James Altucher

    James Altucher is a computer scientist, entrepreneur, and bestselling author. He studied AI at Cornell and Carnegie Mellon, worked with IBM on the Deep Blue supercomputer, and built early AI-driven systems on Wall Street. His latest work focuses on the rise of independent AI infrastructure and the figures driving it.

    Media Contact:
    Derek Warren
    Public Relations Manager
    Paradigm Press Group
    Email: dwarren@paradigmpressgroup.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ICC proposal to reduce tax challenges of cross-border teleworking

    Source: International Chamber of Commerce

    Headline: ICC proposal to reduce tax challenges of cross-border teleworking

    Five years after the pandemic, many organisations have largely returned to office-centric working models. Yet, the crisis fundamentally changed how we work, establishing new expectations around flexibility and remote work that continue to persist. In many ways, we accidentally discovered a way of working that actually fits how people live – one where handling a family crisis abroad didn’t preclude delivering excellent work.

    This shift in expectations has created a new reality for businesses navigating the complex tax risks of flexible work arrangements.

    The gap between employee needs and tax reality

    ICC’s 2023 internal global survey of its members revealed that over 80% of employers receive temporary teleworking requests prompted by family circumstances, health-related needs, caregiving responsibilities, or the use of a secondary residence. Despite these arrangements generally being temporary and arising from normal life circumstances, employers frequently find themselves caught between employee expectations and regulatory uncertainty. These seemingly straightforward requests are hampered due to concerns around permanent establishment risk – the potential for creating a taxable business presence in another country – employer tax and social security obligations, and complex compliance requirements.

    The 60-day teleworking solution

    To address these challenges, ICC has proposed the introduction of a 60-day teleworking ‘safe harbour’, under which an employee’s temporary physical presence in a jurisdiction for teleworking purposes would not, in itself, give rise to a permanent establishment risk, or trigger employer-related tax or social security liabilities. The proposal aligns to the broader principles of international tax law, would not affect a country’s tax rights beyond a limited scope, and can be considered and reflected in the revised Commentary to Article 5 OECD Model Tax Convention and in the Commentary to the UN Tax Convention, without the need to work on a new article.

    Why this benefits everyone, from business to country

    For companies, ‘safe harbour’ eliminates legal uncertainty, allows for project continuity and continued revenue generation, and transforms potential talent retention risks into a competitive advantage.

    For people, it supports workforce well-being by accommodating short-term teleworking needs in times of personal, medical or geopolitical emergencies.

    For tax authorities, it reduces enforcement and compliance burdens and eliminates low-risk, low-revenue case loads from already stretched resources.

    For countries, it ensures that the employee’s country of employment retains its income tax revenue, while the temporary work location benefits from increased consumption and sales tax receipts.

    How it would work in practice

    The proposal is built around several key components:

    • Short-term and on request: The presence of an employee in a country different from the country of employment should be limited in time (e.g. maximum of 60 days per year) and at the request of the employee.
    • A clear definition of a day: Consistent with approaches in tax residency rules, a day should be counted if any work activity is performed from the jurisdiction in question.
    • Individual treatment of multiple employees abroad: The presence of multiple employees in the same country should not be treated cumulatively for determining employer tax liabilities. Each employee’s teleworking days should be assessed independently to avoid unintentionally triggering permanent establishment risks or compliance obligations based on collective presence.
    • Administrative simplification: Where possible, encourage administrative filing to be done in a single country through optional one-stop-shop mechanisms or employer-led tax remittance models..

    MIL OSI Economics –