NewzIntel.com

Category: KB

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murkowski and Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Improve Access to Eating Disorder Care for Seniors and People with Disabilities

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Lisa Murkowski

    06.05.25

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) reintroduced a bipartisan bill to improve access to care for seniors and people with disabilities who are living with eating disorders. The bipartisan Nutrition CARE Act would expand access to medical care for Medicare beneficiaries with eating disorders by including coverage of outpatient medical nutrition therapy through Medicare Part B, which will provide patients with a more comprehensive, specialized approach to combating eating disorders than what is currently offered under Medicare.

    “Eating disorders are complex and often overlooked illnesses that can severely impact Alaskans of all ages, including our seniors and those living with disabilities. We are reintroducing the bipartisan Nutrition CARE Act to enhance access to medical nutrition therapy, which is particularly important in states like mine where resources are limited. This legislation will offer tailored treatment options that address specific needs, promoting recovery and improving health outcomes. We must continue to break the stigma surrounding eating disorders and ensure that everyone receives the comprehensive care they deserve,” said Senator Murkowski.

    “Eating disorders can have life-threatening impacts on Americans’ health, including for older people and individuals who experience disabilities, and it’s important to ensure that all Americans have access to the tools necessary to lead healthy lives,” said Senator Hassan. “This bipartisan legislation will better support seniors and people who experience disabilities who are struggling with eating disorders so that they can get the help that they need.”

     “Eating disorders harm the health of millions of Americans, regardless of their age or background. Our bipartisan legislation will ensure that seniors and people living with disabilities who struggle with eating disorders have access to medical nutrition therapy and life-saving treatment options through Medicare, to get them on the road to recovery,” said Senator Klobuchar.

    “Eating disorders can affect anyone. They can also be particularly life-threatening for elderly Americans and those living with disabilities. The Nutrition CARE Act will expand access to medical nutrition therapy services for Medicare beneficiaries with eating disorders, helping them get the care they need to begin the path to recovery and live healthy lives,” said Senator Capito.

    “Eating disorders are often overlooked or undertreated. The Nutrition CARE Act increases equity in eating disorders care and will directly save lives of seniors and those with disabilities,” said Jess Rude, Executive Director, Alaska Eating Disorders Alliance. “Senator Murkowski is dedicated to efforts for lasting recovery for eating disorders, and we are grateful she is leading legislation that includes nutrition therapy, a critical component in providing effective treatment of eating disorders alongside mental and physical health care.”

    “I am very thankful to Senator Hassan for her unwavering dedication to championing and reintroducing the Nutrition CARE Act. For far too long, individuals struggling with a mental health disorder they never chose have been left without the support they need,” said Johanna Kandel, Founder and CEO of the National Alliance for Eating Disorders. “This crucial legislation will ensure that older adults and individuals with disabilities battling eating disorders finally gain access to medical nutrition therapy, a vital component of the treatment process.”

    The bipartisan Nutrition CARE Act would allow physicians, registered dieticians, nutrition specialists, and mental health professionals to provide medical nutrition therapy services to Medicare beneficiaries. Currently, Medicare beneficiaries who have an eating disorder can access psychiatric, therapy, and medical services. The expanded services would include 13 hours of medical nutrition therapy – including a one-hour initial assessment and 12 hours of reassessment and intervention – during the first year that the beneficiary begins receiving services. The beneficiary would then be able to access four hours of medical nutrition therapy services during each subsequent year.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CLARKE ISSUES STATEMENT ON TRUMP’S TRAVEL BAN 2.0

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Yvette D Clarke (9th District of New York)

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

    June 5, 2025

    MEDIA CONTACT: 

    e:jessica.myers@mail.house.gov

    c: 202.913.0126

    Washington, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) issued the following statement:

    “Donald Trump’s latest travel ban is not a new policy; it’s a dangerous sequel to the same discriminatory playbook he used during his first term with the infamous Muslim Ban.

    “That policy tore families apart, sowed fear in immigrant communities, and betrayed America’s values. Now, with a wider list of targeted nations, he is doubling down on the same hateful rhetoric and xenophobic strategy. The ban’s scope and lack of nuanced security assessments reveal its true nature: a political maneuver rooted in prejudice rather than a genuine effort to protect our nation. This renewed travel ban is nothing short of a thinly veiled continuation of his anti-immigrant, anti-Black, and anti-Muslim agenda, and it is rooted in the very foundation set by Project 2025. 

    “Let me be clear: this latest travel ban is not a matter of national security, but is rather a blatant continuation of Donald Trump’s longstanding war on Black and brown immigrants. From the moment he referred to African nations as ‘shithole countries,’ his agenda has been crystal clear: to demonize and shut out people of color from the promise of America. 

    “The Ninth Congressional District of New York represents a cultural mosaic of diversity, and I see every day how immigrant families strengthen our neighborhoods, drive our economy, and enrich our culture. My heart breaks for my constituents, because this disturbing decision doesn’t just impact the millions still confined to their home nations. It cuts off the lifeline of their family members who have found a new home in my district and across America who rely on resources from their families here in the states. They all deserve dignity — not discrimination. I stand with them, and I will use every tool at my disposal in Congress to oppose this unjust and un-American ban.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Simpson Votes to Relocate Small Business Administration Offices Out of Sanctuary Jurisdictions

    Source: US State of Idaho

    WASHINGTON—Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson voted in favor of H.R. 2931, the Save SBA from Sanctuary Cities Act, a bill that would relocate Small Business Administration (SBA) offices to non-sanctuary city jurisdictions. It would allow offices to be relocated to federal law-abiding cities and towns, even if it is in a sanctuary state.
    “Due to the Biden administration’s open-border policies, violent crime, homicides, and aggravated assaults have all increased in American sanctuary cities,” said Rep. Simpson. “By fueling an unprecedented crisis and lacking accountability, American citizens, small businesses, and communities were put at risk. This legislation is a positive step toward ensuring their safety. Idaho is one of the most business-friendly places in our country and has set a strong example by enacting a statewide ban on sanctuary cities. With the passage of this bill, we are one step closer to codifying President Trump’s agenda.”
    Rep. Simpson and the Idaho delegation recently sent a letter to Small Business Administrator Kelly Loeffler urging the SBA to move the Seattle regional office from Washington to Idaho.
    The measure was approved with a vote of 211-199.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Secretary Noem Saves American Taxpayers Hundreds of Millions by Negotiating New Contract for the Coast Guard

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    DHS is revolutionizing national security while saving the taxpayer over $260 million

    WASHINGTON – Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced that she successfully saved the American taxpayer over $260 million by cancelling a failing U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) shipbuilding project.

    Shipbuilding company Huntington Ingalls (HII) began production of a Legend-class National Security Cutter (NSC) in May 2021. It was supposed to be delivered by 2024 at the latest but is still nowhere near complete. 

    “This is about fulfilling President Trump’s commitment to the American taxpayer,” said Secretary Noem. “Huntington Ingalls owed us this cutter over a year ago. As the Trump administration is revitalizing the U.S. Coast Guard through Force Design 2028, we need to be smart with the American taxpayer’s money. This project was over time and over budget. Now the money can be redirected to ensuring the Coast Guard remains the finest, most-capable maritime service in the world. I would like to extend my thanks to Huntington Ingalls for negotiating in good faith.”

    In addition to returning over $260 million to the U.S. Treasury, the Coast Guard will receive $135 million in parts that will be used to retrofit, upgrade, and maintain the Coast Guard’s existing fleet of 10 Legend-class cutters. By cancelling the production of NSC #11 and securing the parts deal with HII, Secretary Noem has ensured that the Treasury will recoup the remaining funds for use where they are most needed.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Orrstown Bank Promotes Zachary Khuri to Chief Revenue Officer and Joshua Hocker to Market President for the Central Pennsylvania Region

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HARRISBURG, Pa., June 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Orrstown Bank, a wholly owned subsidiary of Orrstown Financial Services, Inc. (NASDAQ: ORRF), is pleased to announce the promotion of Zachary Khuri to Chief Revenue Officer and Joshua Hocker to Market President for the Central Pennsylvania Region, effective immediately.

    Zachary Khuri, who most recently served as Market President for Orrstown Bank’s Central Pennsylvania Region, brings more than 20 years of banking experience to his new role. Since joining Orrstown Bank in 2019, Khuri has played a pivotal role in expanding the Bank’s market share and strengthening relationships throughout the region. As Chief Revenue Officer, he will lead the Bank’s revenue-generating lines of business across its entire footprint. Khuri holds a bachelor’s degree in Finance from Shippensburg University, an MBA from Penn State Harrisburg, and is a graduate of the Duke University Fuqua School of Business Executive Leadership Program.

    “Zack’s strategic mindset, deep understanding of our markets, and proven leadership make him the ideal person to help guide Orrstown Bank’s continued growth,” said Thomas R. Quinn, Jr., President and CEO of Orrstown Bank. “He embodies our culture of collaboration and client focus, and we are thrilled to welcome him to this role.”

    In conjunction with Khuri’s promotion, Joshua Hocker has been named Market President for the Central Pennsylvania Region, succeeding Khuri in the role. Hocker, who most recently served as Director of Middle Market Lending for Orrstown Bank, brings a strong track record of commercial banking success and deep knowledge of the Central Pennsylvania market to his new position. Mr. Hocker holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from West Virginia University and an MBA from Penn State University.

    “Josh has consistently demonstrated an ability to build strong client relationships and deliver meaningful results,” said Adam L. Metz, Chief Operating Officer at Orrstown Bank. “His leadership will ensure we continue delivering exceptional value to our clients and communities across the Central Pennsylvania Region.”

    About Orrstown

    With $5.4 billion in assets, Orrstown Financial Services, Inc. (the “Company”) and its wholly owned subsidiary, Orrstown Bank, provide a wide range of consumer and business financial services in Adams, Berks, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Lancaster, Perry, and York Counties, Pennsylvania and Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Howard, and Washington Counties, Maryland, as well as Baltimore City, Maryland. The Company’s lending area also includes counties in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, Virginia and West Virginia within a 75-mile radius of the Company’s executive and administrative offices as well as the District of Columbia. Orrstown Bank is an Equal Housing Lender and its deposits are insured up to the legal maximum by the FDIC. Orrstown Financial Services, Inc.’s common stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol “ORRF.”   For more information about Orrstown Financial Services, Inc. and Orrstown Bank, visit www.orrstown.com.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E of the Exchange Act. Forward-looking statements reflect the current views of the Company’s management with respect to, among other things, future events and the Company’s financial performance. These statements are often, but not always, made through the use of words or phrases such as “may,” “should,” “could,” “predict,” “potential,” “believe,” “will likely result,” “expect,” “continue,” “will,” “anticipate,” “seek,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “project,” “forecast,” “goal,” “target,” “would” and “outlook,” or the negative variations of those words or other comparable words of a future or forward-looking nature. These forward-looking statements are not historical facts, and are based on current expectations, estimates, predictions or projections about events or the Company’s industry, management’s beliefs and certain assumptions made by management, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and beyond the Company’s control. Accordingly, the Company cautions you that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks, assumptions and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable as of the date made, actual results may prove to be materially different from the results expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made, and the Company disclaims any obligation to publicly update or review any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise. All forward-looking statements, expressed or implied, included in this press release are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. This cautionary statement should also be considered in connection with any subsequent written or oral forward-looking statements that the Company or persons acting on the Company’s behalf may issue. For media inquiries or further information, please contact:

    John Moss
    SVP, Director of Marketing and Client Experience, Orrstown Bank
    717-747-1520
    jmoss@orrstown.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Hawthorn Bancshares Announces New Common Stock Repurchase Program

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    JEFFERSON CITY, Mo., June 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hawthorn Bancshares, Inc. (NASDAQ: HWBK), (the “Company”), the bank holding company for Hawthorn Bank, announced that its Board of Directors approved a new common stock repurchase program authorizing the repurchase of up to $10.0 million in market value of the Company’s common stock. The new common stock repurchase program replaces the Company’s prior common stock repurchase program.

    Management was given discretion to determine the number and pricing of the shares to be purchased, as well as, the timing of any such purchases. The timing and total amount of stock repurchases will depend upon market and other conditions and may be made from time to time in open market purchases or privately negotiated transactions. The program has no termination date, may be suspended or discontinued at any time and does not obligate the Company to acquire any amount of common stock.

    The repurchased shares will be held in treasury and may be used by the Company for general corporate purposes, including stock-based employee benefit plans and stock dividends. It is expected that the stock repurchases will be funded by cash generated through cash on hand, operations and other sources. At June 3, 2025, the Company had 6,946,656 common shares outstanding.

    About Hawthorn Bancshares, Inc.

    Hawthorn Bancshares, Inc., a financial-bank holding company headquartered in Jefferson City, Missouri, is the parent company of Hawthorn Bank, which has served families and businesses for more than 150 years. Hawthorn Bank has multiple locations, including in the greater Kansas City metropolitan area, Jefferson City, Columbia, Springfield, and Clinton.

    Contact:

    Hawthorn Bancshares, Inc.
    Brent M. Giles
    Chief Executive Officer
    TEL: 573.761.6100
    www.HawthornBancshares.com

    Statements made in this press release that suggest Hawthorn Bancshares’ or management’s intentions, hopes, beliefs, expectations, or predictions of the future include “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. It is important to note that actual results could differ materially from those projected in such forward-looking statements. Additional information concerning factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in such forward-looking statements is contained from time to time in the company’s quarterly and annual reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this communication, and the Company disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statement or to publicly announce the results of any revisions to any of the forward-looking statements included herein, except as required by law.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lawler Urges Immediate Reversal of Trump Administration’s Travel Ban on Haiti

    Source: US Congressman Mike Lawler (R, NY-17)

    Washington, D.C. – 6/5/25… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) released a statement strongly urging the Trump Administration to reconsider the full suspension of entry for Haitian nationals that was announced yesterday. 

    The situation in Haiti has deteriorated, spiraling into an unprecedented humanitarian crisis that demands global attention and support. Armed gangs control large swaths of the capital, Port-au-Prince, with their influence spreading to other regions. Violence, including gang-related atrocities, has surged, with over 1,600 people killed in the first three months of 2025 alone, and more than 1 million Haitians internally displaced. Famine conditions have emerged, with many surviving on just one meal a day. This disaster, exacerbated by corruption, poor governance, and a continuous flow of illicit weapons, has only grown worse, leaving the Haitian people in desperate need of assistance.

    While vetting and screening processes in Haiti may be substandard due to the country’s instability, there is no evidence that Haiti is a breeding ground for terrorism that threatens national security. The ban’s inclusion of Haiti is a misguided overreach that ignores the root causes of the crisis. The United States has led three interventions in Haiti that have ultimately failed to create long-term stability, and the United States has a unique responsibility to act.

    “Haiti’s disaster has been growing, and given our proximity to the nation and our historical interventions. We have a moral duty to help. Haitians cannot do it alone,” Congressman Lawler stated. “This travel ban will only deepen the suffering of Haitians, many of whom have strong ties to the U.S., including the vibrant Haitian diaspora in the Hudson Valley that I represent in Congress, and risks isolating Haiti further at a time when they need our support most.

    I strongly urge the Trump administration to immediately remove Haiti from this list—or at the very least, reduce it to a partial ban as was done for countries like Cuba and Venezuela. Last month, Secretary Rubio testified that the Trump Administration is “prepared to play a leading role” in the Organization of American States (OAS) and asserted that the UN-authorized Multinational Security Support Mission “alone will not solve this problem.” I urge the Administration to move forward with such a leading role, including a potential security mission led by OAS to end the crisis and lead Haiti on a path to stability,” concluded Congressman Lawler. 

    Congressman Lawler has been a steadfast advocate for the Haitian community, previously urging the administration in a February 19, 2025, letter to President Trump to maintain Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitian citizens in the U.S. He highlighted the “critical situation ongoing in Haiti” and the importance of TPS for Hudson Valley families, noting the country’s “unstable and dangerous” conditions following the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse and the subsequent rise in gang violence. Congressman Lawler also led a resolution calling for the United States and its international partners to redouble their diplomatic efforts to help achieve a negotiated, Haitian-led solution to the current impasse.

    Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Lawler, Cleaver Reintroduce Bipartisan HUD Legislation To Ensure Annual Oversight

    Source: US Congressman Mike Lawler (R, NY-17)

    Washington, D.C. – 6/5/25… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) and Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II (MO-05) reintroduced the HUD Accountability Act of 2025, a bipartisan measure that would require the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to testify before Congress on an annual basis. The bill aims to strengthen transparency and ensure HUD leadership is held accountable amid an ongoing housing affordability crisis.

    The HUD Accountability Act, which passed committee last Congress with bipartisan backing, would require the HUD Secretary to testify annually for five years before the House Financial Services Committee and the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee. 

    The legislation outlines key areas for testimony, including:

    • Progress in addressing the affordable housing and homelessness crises
    • The condition and performance of HUD programs, including public housing
    • Oversight efforts to combat waste, fraud, and abuse
    • The financial status of FHA’s mortgage insurance funds
    • The capacity of the Department to deliver on its statutory mission
    • And any other relevant agency operations and priorities

    “With families in New York and across the country being crushed by skyrocketing housing costs, Congress needs to take this crisis seriously, and that starts with oversight,” said Congressman Lawler. “In the past, there have been long gaps between appearances by the HUD Secretary before the Financial Services Committee. That lack of regular oversight isn’t acceptable. Our bill ensures the Secretary testifies annually on the Department’s programs, finances, and priorities.”

    “Last Congress, I hosted the first congressional field hearing in Rockland County in years to hear directly from constituents about how high housing costs are affecting their lives,” Congressman Lawler concluded. “Whether it’s addressing the workforce housing crunch or improving HUD oversight, I’m focused on bringing greater transparency and accountability to programs meant to serve the American people.”

    “Whether a Republican or Democratic administration, it is imperative that the people’s representatives have an opportunity to provide oversight of the Executive Branch on behalf of the public, which includes bringing Cabinet officials before Congress to explain their policymaking actions and motivations,” said Congressman Cleaver. “I was proud to support this bipartisan legislation last Congress, and I’m happy to reintroduce it with Congressman Lawler as we seek to lower housing costs and ensure transparency for the American people.”

    Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

    ###

    Full text of the bill can be found HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: June 05, 2025 Rep. Mullin Leads Clean Energy and Climate Initiatives in the FY26 Appropriations Package  Washington, D.C. – On World Environment Day, U.S. Rep. Kevin Mullin announced a series of federal initiatives he’s leading to accelerate climate solutions and clean energy innovation.   As part of the House Appropriations process for Fiscal Year 2026, Rep. Mullin… Read More

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Kevin Mullin California (15th District)

    Washington, D.C. – On World Environment Day, U.S. Rep. Kevin Mullin announced a series of federal initiatives he’s leading to accelerate climate solutions and clean energy innovation.  

    As part of the House Appropriations process for Fiscal Year 2026, Rep. Mullin led 21 lawmakers in submitting a range of funding requests, including several that were bipartisan, that seek to enhance America’s environmental leadership, speed our transition to clean energy, and promote the well-being of communities across the nation. 

    “We must invest in innovative, science-based solutions to help combat the climate crisis, preserve our planet and strengthen America’s global competitiveness,” said Rep. Mullin. “My funding requests reflect the urgent need to modernize our energy systems, protect public health, and lead the world in clean technology development.” 

    The House Appropriations Committee will now review these requests for consideration in the FY26 Appropriations package.   

    Marine Carbon Dioxide Removal Research  
    Rep. Mullin co-led a bipartisan request to increase funding for research and development of marine carbon removal technologies within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Oceans are our planet’s largest carbon sink, and advancing marine-based solutions can restore ecosystems, capture atmospheric carbon, and benefit coastal economies. 

    Solar and Wind Grid Integration Programs  
    Proposed clean energy projects could double the nation’s power supply, but it takes an average of 5 years to connect them to the grid. Rep. Mullin is requesting robust funding for Solar and Wind Energy Systems Integration programs through the Department of Energy (DOE). These funds would support technologies that enable faster, more secure integration of renewable energy into the grid, helping to meet climate goals and stabilize energy infrastructure.  

    Standardizing Communication for Grid-Connected Devices  
    Rep. Mullin is supporting efforts within the Department of Energy to standardize communication between smart devices – such as electric vehicle chargers, smart thermostats, and home batteries – and the electric grid.  Standardization will improve grid capacity and flexibility, which would boost efficiency and help avoid costly upgrades to transmission infrastructure. 

    Environmental Health Sciences Core Centers Rep. Mullin is requesting $42 million for the National Institute of Health’s Environmental Health Sciences Core Centers, which are at the forefront of research into how pollutants like PFAS and microplastics affect human health. Their work is vital to understanding and preventing chronic diseases, which are the leading cause of death and a major driver of U.S. healthcare costs. 

    Groundwater Rise Report 

    In coastal regions across the country, rising seas and extreme rainfall are causing groundwater levels to rise, which increases risks to public health, infrastructure and trillions of dollars in property. Rep. Mullin requests $2 million for the U.S. Geological Survey to  forecast groundwater rise nationally and better prepare communities.  

    Digital Coast Program  

    Rep. Mullin co-led a bipartisan request for robust funding for NOAA’s Digital Coast Program, a popular program that leverages geographical information systems (GIS) to collect and analyze data. The program consolidates and makes publicly available information that helps coastal managers better plan for storms, flooding, natural disasters and other challenges that impact vulnerable communities.  

    Next-Generation Solar Demonstrations  
    Solar energy is a critical tool for American defense applications. Rep. Mullin is requesting at least $40 million to support demonstrations of next-generation solar technology in the military. 

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tiffany Demands PSC to Prioritize Baseload Power Sources, Ensure Affordable Energy for Wisconsinites

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Tom Tiffany (WI-07)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Tom Tiffany (WI-07) sent a letter to Summer Strand, Chair of the Public Service Commission (PSC), calling for Wisconsin to lead the way in affordable energy production. Specifically, the letter asks the PSC not to prematurely close coal-fired plants and ensure reliable baseload power to make our state more competitive. 

    In the letter, Tiffany writes, “If Wisconsin is going to maintain its role as a world-class manufacturing state, we must keep all of our current power plants online and bring new generation online for the future. This is particularly critical as we enter a new era of artificial intelligence and data centers, which require a steady supply of reliable, and low-cost energy, such as coal, natural gas, and nuclear power generation.”

    “As you evaluate the future of Wisconsin’s grid, I urge you to resist pressure to close any coal-fired plants prematurely. As you know, shuttering these facilities presents risks – which helps explain why we’ve already seen planned closures of existing coal plants delayed, such as Columbia Energy Center. In short, coal fired plants are a backbone of baseload power, and cannot simply be replaced with intermittent generation provided by wind and solar,” Tiffany added.

    “As the Trump administration removes barriers to growth and opportunity, the choice is ours. Will our state keep up with the growing demand for energy, or will we play second fiddle to other states? Will we move to shore up our state’s industrial prowess and prepare for the family-wage jobs of the future by tapping into Made in America energy, or will we allow the radical “climate” lobby to make Wisconsinites poorer while enriching the “green energy” crony capitalists who finance them? We must make sure we are in a position to win and continue to grow, otherwise we run the risk of becoming California; or even worse, Spain or Portugal,” Tiffany concluded.

    You may read the full letter here.  

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: UN Secretary-General António Guterres Commends African Development Bank President Akinwumi Adesina for Transformative Leadership in Sustainable…

    Source: African Development Bank Group
    United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has praised African Development Bank Group President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, for his extraordinary vision and dedication to the economic transformation of Africa.
    First elected as president of the Bank Group in 2015, Adesina will conclude his decade-long tenure at…

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: African Development Bank and IATI hold workshop for Francophone West Africa governments to strengthen development effectiveness

    Source: African Development Bank Group
    The African Development Bank and the International Aid Transparency Initiative (IATI) concluded a workshop on Thursday aimed at enhancing the use of development finance data to support national planning, coordination, and accountability. The workshop was attended by government representatives from Francophone West Africa.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Anzana Electric and African Development Bank Power Up Burundi’s Energy Future with $600,000 Grant to Weza Power

    Source: African Development Bank Group
    At the launch of Burundi’s National Energy Compact during the Mission 300 (M300) Private Sector Consultation in London, Anzana Electric Group and the African Development Bank announced a $600,000 project development grant from the Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa (SEFA).

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 5 June 2025 News release WHO calls for urgent protection of Nasser Medical Complex and Al-Amal Hospital in the Gaza Strip

    Source: World Health Organisation

    WHO warns that the Gaza Strip’s health system is collapsing, with Nasser Medical Complex, the most important referral hospital left in Gaza, and Al-Amal Hospital at risk of becoming non-functional. There are already no hospitals functioning in the north of Gaza.

    Nasser and Amal are the last two functioning public hospitals in Khan Younis, where currently most of the population is living. Without them, people will lose access to critical health services.

    While these hospitals have not received orders to evacuate patients or staff, they lie within or just outside the evacuation zone announced on 2 June. Israeli authorities have informed the Ministry of Health that access routes leading to both hospitals will be obstructed. As a result, safe access for new patients and staff will be difficult, if not impossible. If the situation further deteriorates, both hospitals are at high risk of becoming non-functional, due to movement restrictions, insecurity, and the inability of WHO and partners to resupply or transfer patients.

    Nasser and Al Amal hospitals are operating above their capacity, while people with life-threatening injuries continue to arrive to seek urgent care amid a dire shortage of essential medicines and medical supplies. The hospitals going out of service would have dire consequences for patients in need of surgical care, intensive care, blood bank and transfusion services, cancer care, and dialysis.

    Losing the two hospitals would cut 490 beds, reducing the Gaza Strip’s overall hospital bed availability to less than 1400 hospital beds (40% less hospital beds available in the Gaza Strip than before the start of the conflict), for the entire population of 2 million people.

    The relentless and systematic decimation of hospitals in Gaza has been going on for too long. It must end immediately. For over 20 months, health workers, WHO, and partners have managed to keep health services partly running despite extreme conditions. But repeated attacks, escalating hostilities, denial of aid, and restricted access have systematically dismantled the health system.

    WHO calls for urgent protection of Nasser Medical Complex and Al-Amal Hospital to ensure they remain accessible, functional and safe from attacks and hostilities. Patients seeking refuge and care to save their lives must not risk losing them trying to reach hospitals. Hospitals must never be militarized or targeted.

    WHO calls for the delivery of essential medicines and medical supplies into Gaza to be immediately expedited safely and facilitated through all possible routes.

    WHO calls for an immediate and lasting ceasefire.

    Notes to editors

    • Only 17 of Gaza’s 36 hospitals are currently partially functional. Of these, just five, including Nasser Medical Complex and Al-Amal Hospital, are major referral facilities, accounting for 75% of all the Gaza Strip’s hospital beds.
    • Nasser Medical Complex is operating at 180% over bed capacity and Al Amal Hospital is at 100%.
    • Currently, one national and four international Emergency Medical Teams are deployed at Al-Amal and Nasser hospitals as part of efforts to provide specialized care and strengthen hospital capacity.
    • Acute shortages of essential medicines and medical supplies are severely disrupting health services in all hospitals, while about 50 WHO trucks of supplies await at Al-Arish and in the West Bank.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement by Prime Minister Carney on World Environment Day

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    “Canada’s nature is woven into our identity and culture. On World Environment Day, we affirm our commitment to protecting Canada’s natural heritage and defending it for future generations.

    “Canada’s new government will create new protected areas and national parks, bolster Indigenous stewardship, protect wildlife in and around our coastal waters, and safeguard our fresh water through the new Canada Water Agency.

    “Furthermore, we will strengthen Parks Canada’s disaster response at home and champion nature conservation internationally, including by stopping illegal wildlife trade across our borders with modern technology.

    “Together, we will protect the most beautiful country in the world and build a strong and united Canada.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Huffman, Padilla, Schiff, Heinrich Call on Trump Admin to Reverse Unlawful Approval of Mining in Mojave National Preserve

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jared Huffman Representing the 2nd District of California

    June 05, 2025

    Washington, D.C. – Rep. Jared Huffman (D-Calif.-02), Ranking Member of the House Natural Resources Committee, U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources (ENR) Committee, Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the Senate ENR Committee expressed serious concern over the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) unlawful approval of mining activities by Dateline Resources inside the Mojave National Preserve and demanded they rescind their approval. In their letter to Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum, the lawmakers also called on Interior to comply with federal mining law, conduct a full mineral validity exam, reaffirm the National Park Service’s (NPS) authority over mining operations in the Preserve, and explain their legal rationale for permitting Dateline Resources mining activity.

    “We write with serious concern regarding the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) recent press release announcing BLM’s ‘approval’ of mining activity by Dateline Resources within Mojave National Preserve,” wrote the lawmakers. “This action appears to violate federal law, disregards National Park Service (NPS) authority, and sets a dangerous precedent for industrial development in lands that Congress has designated as worthy of inclusion in the National Park System.”

    Congress created the Mojave National Preserve in 1994 through the late Senator Dianne Feinstein’s California Desert Protection Act (CDPA), which transferred the land from BLM to NPS, helping support rare plant species and vital wildlife corridors. The law clearly states that any mining within the Preserve must comply with the Mining in the Parks Act, meaning companies with preexisting claims must conduct a mineral validity exam and obtain an NPS-approved plan of operations before any surface-disturbing activity can occur.

    Despite these requirements, BLM recently approved rare earth mineral exploration by Dateline Resources, an Australian company, based on a 1985 BLM plan of operations that predates the Preserve’s creation and only covers the extraction of gold. Dateline recently announced plans to begin exploratory drilling, despite lacking a valid NPS-approved plan or proof of the existence of a valuable mineral deposit, as the Mining in the Parks Act requires.

    “Congress set aside these lands and entrusted them to the NPS for permanent protection, not as a zone for future industrial exploitation,” continued the lawmakers.

    The lawmakers also criticized Secretary Burgum for backtracking on his commitments to safeguard America’s national parks.

    “This is not only illegal, but it directly contradicts a commitment you made during your confirmation hearing to ‘protect every inch of our national parks.’ Approving a foreign-owned company’s speculative mining project inside a national park in this way is clearly inconsistent with that promise and threatens future speculative actions across other national parks,” added the lawmakers.

    Local leaders expressed their strong support for Padilla, Schiff, Heinrich, and Huffman’s effort to protect the Mojave National Preserve from this unlawful mining activity.

    “We applaud Senator Padilla and congressional leaders for defending our beloved Mojave National Preserve from unchecked destruction by the Trump administration,” said Chance Wilcox, California Desert Program Manager for the National Parks Conservation Association. “In promoting speculative, damaging mining in our National Park System, the administration is pushing aside not only the legal protections afforded to this biodiverse landscape, but also the American people who love their parks. The administration’s misguided effort gives an Australian company a free pass to mining in one of America’s largest national park sites while saddling taxpayers with the clean-up costs.” 

    “I spent my entire career in the National Park Service and was Superintendent of Mojave National Preserve for over a decade,” said Mary Martin, Retired National Park Service Official. “Speculative mining should have no place in our country’s most spectacular places – our national parks. It is infuriating that the Trump administration is urging an Australian mining company to drill and bulldoze this national park. This is nothing short of illegal and a betrayal of all Americans who own these national parks.”

    “The Clark mountain range is one of California’s most botanically important areas, estimated to harbor the second-highest density of rare plants of any of the state’s mountain ranges,” said Jim Andre, Director of UC Riverside’s Granite Mountains Desert Research Center. “The eastern Mojave Desert is also a global hotspot for new species discovery, where 15% of the vascular plant species have yet to be discovered. Will we know what we’ve lost if we bulldoze this area? They’re not just prized luxury items, they’re actually a functional part of the ecosystem that are supposed to be protected for the benefit of all Americans.”

    Full text of the letter is available here.

    ###

    Previous Article

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: More snow coming, watch out on the roads!

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is urging motorists not to get caught out as more snow is forecast across the South Island leading into the weekend.

    Heavy snow warnings or watches have been issued by the MetService from tomorrow, with heavy snow down to 300m potentially causing travel disruption, damage to trees and powerlines in Central Otago and Canterbury, from the Rangitata River southwards.

    Queenstown Lakes is also facing potentially heavy snow to 400m, and snow is expected to fall about the Dunedin-Waitati Highway (SH1) from about 10am tomorrow

    North of the Rangitata River, Canterbury and southern Marlborough may also be affected, with heavy snow possible down to 400m. Mountain passes across the island may be impacted as snow accumulates.

    “We got off relatively lightly with the snow so far this week,” says NZTA system manager Mark Pinner.

    “The highway closures we had in the MacKenzie Country were only short-lived and the impact was not widespread. If you are heading away for the weekend, and especially if you are travelling on highways at higher elevations, make sure you are prepared and plan ahead using our Journey Planner.”

    Journey Planner(external link)

    In addition to accumulating snow, the accompanying cold temperatures create risks of frost and ice on the roads.

    “Make sure that if you are driving in these conditions, that you adjust your speeds and following distances accordingly.”

    Good winter driving habits

    “If you can avoid or delay travel on roads while there is elevated risk, that’s sensible.”

    NZTA will be working with its partners to keep a close eye on the State Highway network around the south and responding with its crews as required.

    In the Westland District, motorists are encouraged to be prepared for potentially severe gale force southeast winds from tomorrow afternoon.     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Travel Advisory Reminder: RIDOT Paving Route 7 in Smithfield and North Providence

    Source: US State of Rhode Island

    Daytime and evening lane closures planned

    The Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) is reminding motorists of ongoing paving operations on a section of Route 7 (Douglas Pike) in Smithfield. The work is part of a larger project to pave more than 11 miles on Route 7 in North Smithfield, Smithfield and North Providence.

    Work will take place during evening and overnight hours from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m., on Sunday through Thursday nights only. Sections of Route 7 may be closed with detours posted, especially after 10 p.m. In the next week, work will focus on the section of Route 7 from Twin River Road in Smithfield to Mineral Spring Avenue in North Providence. Specific detour information throughout the duration of this project will be posted at www.ridot.net/TravelAdvisories#NorthernRI.

    The entire project represents a $19.9 million investment in the Route 7 corridor, with ADA accessibility improvements, new traffic signals, repairs to existing sidewalks and a complete resurfacing of the road. RIDOT completed paving from the Burrillville/North Smithfield line to I-295 last year. The section from I-295 to Mineral Spring Avenue will be under construction from late May through late June, and work on the section from Mineral Spring Avenue to the North Providence/Providence line will begin shortly after Independence Day and finish in August. The entire project will be done by late summer.

    All construction projects are subject to changes in schedule and scope depending on needs, circumstances, findings, and weather.

    The Route 7 Corridor project is made possible by RhodeWorks. RIDOT is committed to bringing Rhode Island’s infrastructure into a state of good repair while respecting the environment and striving to improve it. Learn more at www.ridot.net/RhodeWorks.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Federal Jury Convicts Pakistani Weapons Smuggler of Transporting Iranian Advanced Conventional Weapons Destined for the Houthis in Yemen

    Source: US State of California

    A federal jury convicted a Pakistani national today on charges related to smuggling Iranian-made advanced conventional weaponry destined for the Houthis in Yemen and threatening multiple witnesses.

    According to court records and evidence presented at trial, on the night of Jan. 11, 2024, U.S. Central Command Navy forces operating from the USS LEWIS B. PULLER, including Navy SEALs and members of the U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Security Response Team East, boarded an unflagged dhow, a small vessel, in the Arabian Sea off the coast of Somalia. The U.S. boarding team encountered 14 individual mariners on the vessel, including the captain, Muhammad Pahlawan, 49.

    During a search of the dhow, the U.S. boarding team located and seized Iranian-made advanced conventional weaponry, including ballistic missile components, anti-ship cruise missile components, and a warhead. The type of weaponry found aboard the dhow is consistent with the weaponry used by the Houthi rebel forces during the time of the charged conspiracy against merchant ships and U.S. military ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden after the October 7 Hamas attack in Israel.  During the interdiction, Pahlawan lied to the boarding team, instructed other crewmembers to lie, and eventually threatened the lives of his crewmembers and their families.

    Pahlawan’s January 2024 trip was part of a larger operation. From in or around August 2023 through in or around January 2024, Pahlawan worked with two Iranian brothers, Shahab Mir’kazei (Shahab), and Yunus Mir’kazei (Yunus), affiliated with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to smuggle materials from Iran to the Houthi rebel forces in Yemen. Pahlawan completed multiple smuggling voyages, coordinated and funded by Shahab and Yunus, by traveling with cargo from Iran to the coast of Somalia and transporting that cargo to another vessel for a nighttime ship-to-ship transfer. Pahlawan worked with Shahab and Yunus to prepare the dhow for these smuggling voyages, received specific coordinates from them for the ship-to-ship transfers, and received multiple payments from them for his role in the smuggling operation.

    Pahlawan was convicted of: conspiring to provide material support and resources to terrorists, providing material support and resources to Iran’s weapons of mass destruction program, providing material support to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’s weapons of mass destruction program, conspiring to and indeed transporting explosive devices to the Houthis knowing those explosives would be used to cause harm, and threatening his crew. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 22 and most statutes of conviction include a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine sentences after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Sue J. Bai, head of the Justice Department’s National Security Division, U.S. Attorney Erik S. Siebert for the Eastern District of Virginia, Assistant Director Donald M. Holstead of the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division; and Assistant Director in Charge Steven J. Jensen of the FBI Washington Field Office made the announcement.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Troy A. Edwards Jr. and Gavin R. Tisdale for the Eastern District of Virginia and Trial Attorney Joseph N. Kaster of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case. Former Eastern District of Virginia prosecutor Danya Atiyeh and former National Security Division Trial Attorney Lesley Woods supported the case.

    The following government agencies provided invaluable support to the case: the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs, the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, the Department of Defense, the Diplomatic Security Service, the Department of Homeland Security, and the Department of State.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI and Local Partners Interrupt IED and Mass Shooting Event

    Source: US FBI

    The FBI Portland Field Office and local law enforcement partners arrested a Columbia County, Oregon, juvenile who conspired to conduct an improvised explosive attack and mass shooting at the Three Rivers Mall in Kelso, Washington, on May 22, 2025.

    The teen, whose name will not be released due to an effort to limit public disclosure of a minor, was arrested on the morning of May 22, 2025, by deputies from the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office.

    The detailed and imminent attack plans were reported to the FBI on May 19, 2025. Immediately, the FBI began working with our partners to identify the suspect who was responsible for the threat. The subject was identified the next day, May 20, as a juvenile Columbia County resident who shared nihilistic violent extremist ideology and the plans in online chats. The suspect was placed under court-authorized surveillance for public
    safety concerns, and a federal search warrant was planned and executed on May 22, 2025, prior to the arrest.

    The suspect demonstrated the intent and means to carry out their plan, which included precise details such as a map of the mall, a route the shooter would follow, a plan to use an improvised explosive device commonly known as a chlorine bomb to incite panic, and then to shoot mall patrons as they were exiting the movie theatre before ultimately committing suicide at a pre-determined location in the mall.

    An alarming amount of indicators of a cogent path to violence were met—at no point in this plan did it seem like the suspect wouldn’t follow through with their plans. 

    “This plot was as serious as it gets,” said FBI Portland Special Agent in Charge Douglas A. Olson. “We, along with our partners, moved swiftly to interrupt this violent plan and to protect our community.” 

    Initial contact with the subject was made by the FBI, however the arrest was made by local law enforcement on state charges.

    The FBI encourages the public to report suspicious behavior to law enforcement and for parents to engage with their children and have an open dialogue about their online activity.

    The Columbia County District Attorney’s office is prosecuting this case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Crypto Casino Trends 2025: Winna Prioritizes Speed and Privacy Over Flashy Bonuses

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Las Vegas, NV, June 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Among several new entrants, Winna reflects a growing trend in crypto gambling: fast crypto payouts, privacy-centric onboarding, and a focus on esports betting. Its instant withdrawal time and privacy-first approach have earned it top rankings as the best crypto casino for players seeking speed and discretion.

    Winna’s streamlined interface, blockchain-native architecture, and smart bonus structures position it not just as an alternative—but as a frontrunner in the race for the best crypto casino experience.


    Platform Overview: Winna – A Crypto Casino for Modern Gamblers

    Winna is a lean, high-performance gambling platform tailored for cryptocurrency users. From its clean UI to its turbo-fast transactions, everything is built to match the expectations of today’s crypto-native players.

    Platform Highlights:

    • Launch: 2024
    • License: Tobique Gaming License
    • Game Library: 2,000+ titles (slots, tables, live games, esports, sportsbook)
    • Crypto Accepted: BTC, ETH, DOGE, USDT, SOL, BNB, TRX, LTC, USDC 
    • Average Withdrawal Time: <10 minutes
    • Verification: No KYC for crypto users

    As a top-rated crypto casino, Winna competes directly with longer-established platforms by excelling in three areas: speed, privacy, and personalized rewards.


    Why Winna Is the Crypto Casino for Privacy and Payout Speed

    Online forums, Telegram groups, and gambling review sites consistently highlight why Winna is emerging as one of the best crypto casinos on the market:

    • Verified Fast Withdrawals:
      Crypto users report consistent sub-10-minute withdrawal speeds. Bitcoin withdrawals often complete in under 12 minutes, placing Winna among the fastest-paying crypto casinos today.
    • No-KYC Simplicity:
      Players register with just an email—no documents, no verification delay. This level of anonymity is rare, even among so-called best crypto casino options.
    • Game Quality and Focus:
      Rather than padding its numbers with low-tier games, Winna offers over 2,000 high-quality titles. Feedback from early users helped shape its game portfolio, emphasizing high-RTP slots and competitive esports betting—features core to any best crypto casino rating.
    • Crypto-Friendly Promotions:
      Bonuses are structured with crypto players in mind. Instead of convoluted fiat-like wagering requirements, Winna’s promos reward play activity, not paperwork.
    • 24/7 Support:
      A core expectation of a best bitcoin casino is round-the-clock assistance. Winna meets this standard with live chat, email, and Telegram support in multiple languages.
    • Enterprise-Grade Security:
      With 2FA, SSL, cold wallet crypto storage, and provably fair games, Winna meets all the requirements for being a trusted and secure crypto casino.


    Bonuses That Set Winna Apart from Other Crypto Casinos

    Where many platforms offer flashy but hollow promotions, Winna focuses on value-driven bonus structures that reward real players:

    • Welcome Package:
      New players receive a 60% rakeback deal and a deposit bonus. This combination makes it one of the best bonus packages among crypto casinos.
    • Daily/Weekly Tournaments:
      Compete for share in $25,000 prize pools, win free spins, and participate in rotating slot events—standard perks among top crypto casinos.
    • Real Cashback:
      Automatic cashback on net losses increases retention and offers consistent value—a key feature of the best crypto gambling sites.
    • Esports-Focused Offers:
      Esports fans get unique bet insurance and odds boosts, positioning Winna as not just the best bitcoin casino, but one of the few built with esports bettors in mind.
    • Loyalty VIP Club:
      Earn faster payouts, exclusive tournaments, and tiered bonuses. The VIP program is a major draw for high-volume players across Reddit crypto casino communities.


    Game Library: Why Winna Delivers One of the Best Crypto Casino Experiences

    Winna may not have the biggest library, but it’s carefully built for maximum entertainment value, ensuring every title contributes to a high-quality crypto gambling experience.

    • Top-Tier Slots:
      Sweet Bonanza, Gates of Olympus, and dozens of bonus-buy, high-RTP options make Winna’s selection one of the most player-friendly in the best crypto casino category.
    • Live Dealer Games:
      Blackjack, roulette, and live game shows hosted by real dealers 24/7—streamed in HD and optimized for mobile.
    • Table Games:
      Multi-version blackjack, poker, and roulette variants allow both casual and expert players to thrive.
    • Crypto Sportsbook & Esports Betting:
      Bet on esports tournaments and real-world sports events with competitive odds and real-time stats. These features elevate Winna into the elite tier of crypto casinos with integrated sportsbooks.
    • Instant Win and Crash Games:
      Perfect for quick-session players who prefer high-volatility, fast-paced experiences.


    Crypto Support and Security: Foundation of the Winna Crypto Casino

    Accepted Coins:

    • Bitcoin (BTC)
    • Ethereum (ETH)
    • Tether (USDT)
    • Binance Coin
    • Solana (SOL)
    • Dogecoin (DOGE)
    • Litecoin (LTC)
    • Tron (TRX)
    • USDC (USDC)

    Fiat-to-Crypto Integration (coming soon):

    • Visa
    • Apple Pay
    • Mastercard
    • Google Pay

    Security Systems:

    • SSL encryption on all data
    • Cold wallet storage of crypto funds
    • Two-factor authentication
    • Fairness-verified RNG and provably fair systems
    • GDPR-compliant data privacy protocols

    Together, these systems reinforce Winna’s role as one of the safest crypto casinos in 2025.


    Pros and Cons: Why Winna is Among the Best Crypto Casinos

    Pros Cons
    5-minute average crypto withdrawals Fiat payment features still in development
    No KYC needed for crypto play Smaller game count than legacy platforms
    Excellent esports and sportsbook features  
    High-value welcome bonus & rakeback  
    Secure, anonymous crypto transactions  
    24/7 multilingual customer support  

    Winna’s mobile-optimized site delivers full access to the platform on any device—iOS or Android. Players can launch slots, watch live dealer games, and place real-time sports bets without losing functionality or speed.


    Responsible Gambling Measures

    As expected from any best crypto casino, Winna offers built-in player protection tools:

    • Daily/monthly deposit caps
    • Session time reminders
    • Temporary and permanent self-exclusion
    • “Cool off” features for short-term breaks
    • Integration with problem gambling helplines and support networks


    FAQ – Quick Answers for Players Choosing Winna

    Is Winna the best crypto casino for 2025?
    Yes. Its speed, privacy, bonuses, and security place it among the absolute top crypto gambling sites this year.

    Are withdrawals really under 10 minutes?
    Yes. Most crypto withdrawals are processed within 6–8 minutes.

    Do I need to verify my identity?
    No. Crypto users can register and play completely anonymously.

    Can I play on my phone?
    Yes. The platform is fully mobile-optimized for browser play.

    Does Winna support fiat deposits?
    Not yet, but on-platform crypto purchases using Visa/Mastercard are in development.

    What makes Winna different from other top crypto casinos?
    It prioritizes privacy, esports integration, player-focused rewards, and speed—without bloated extras or delays.


    Final Thoughts: Why Winna Is the Best Crypto Casino for Real Players

    Winna isn’t just another crypto casino—it’s a purpose-built ecosystem designed for speed, fairness, and real player value. Its withdrawal speed, no-KYC onboarding, competitive esports betting, and rakeback structure all align with what today’s crypto users want.
    Unlike platforms that rely heavily on marketing spin, Winna delivers consistent, measurable value where it matters most. While Jackbit was once considered a strong option, its recent wave of negative press, delayed payouts, and inconsistent bonus policies have significantly tarnished its reputation. Many experienced players now consider it unreliable and no longer representative of the crypto-first gambling model.

    If you’re looking for the best crypto casino for 2025, Winna is not just a contender—it’s already the choice for thousands of informed players.

    Disclaimer: 

    Gambling entails risks and should be approached with caution. Users must be of legal gambling age in their jurisdiction. This article is for informational and promotional purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.

    Always gamble responsibly and within your means. The publisher, affiliates, and authors are not liable for losses arising from use of this content. Brand names and trademarks belong to their respective owners.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Xtract One Announces Third Quarter Fiscal 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, June 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  Xtract One Technologies Inc. (TSX: XTRA) (OTCQX: XTRAF) (FRA: 0PL) (“Xtract One” or the “Company”) a leading technology-driven threat detection and security solution that prioritizes the patron access experience by leveraging AI, today announced fiscal third quarter results for the three months ended April 30, 2025. All information is in Canadian dollars unless otherwise indicated.

    Third Quarter Highlights

    • Quarterly revenue of $3.5 million for the three months ended April 30, 2025 versus $4.7 million in the prior-year period.
    • Gross margin of 57% for the third quarter of fiscal 2025 versus 58% in the prior-year period.
    • Total contract value of new bookings1 was $4.6 million for the three months ending April 30, 2025 as compared to $9.5 million for the same period last year.
    • Contractual backlog was $15.4 million at the end of the third quarter as compared to $13.8 million in the prior-year period, excluding an additional $21.1 million of agreements pending installation1 versus approximately $12.8 million at the end of the third quarter of fiscal 2024.
    • Subsequent to the quarter, the Company announced that its new innovative security platform, Xtract One Gateway, has been certified in Canada and the U.S and is on track to start shipping in July, with a current aggregate order value of approximately $6.7 million across five different customers. The Company has completed numerous demonstrations and trials across the education, healthcare and manufacturing and distribution markets.

    “While revenue was lower than anticipated for the quarter due to some delayed deployments, we remain on track for a solid year of performance and continue to have a growing backlog that strengthens our outlook for the future,” stated Peter Evans, Chief Executive Officer of Xtract One. “As recently announced, our Xtract One Gateway will start shipping this July, and we already have $6.7 million of orders in hand. While increasing our expectations for the quarters to come, recent investments in inventory and product rollout reduced our cash level during the period, which was expected. At the same time, we’ve announced several exciting developments including new wins with the Colorado Rockies and an international entertainment giant which, along with other awards, position us well for the year ahead. We remain upbeat about the fourth quarter and look to end fiscal 2025 on a high note.”

    Financial Results for the Three Month Period Ended April 30, 2025

    Consolidated revenue was $3.5 million for the three months ended April 30, 2025 as compared to $4.7 million for the same period last year, reflecting timing of order deployments. Gross profit was $2.0 million, or a gross profit margin of 57%, in the fiscal 2025 third quarter versus $2.7 million, or a gross profit margin of 58%, in the prior-year period.

    Comprehensive loss was $3.3 million for the three month period ended April 30, 2025 as compared to $2.7 million for the same period in fiscal 2024, reflecting a reduced gross profit offset by lower overall operating costs.

    This press release should be read in conjunction with the Company’s Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements, prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) and the Company’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis for the three and nine month periods ended April 30, 2025 and 2024, which can be found on the Company’s website and under the Company’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

    Conference Call Details

    Xtract One will host a conference call to discuss its results tomorrow, June 6, 2025 at 10:00 am EST. Peter Evans, Xtract One CEO and Director, and Karen Hersh, CFO and Corporate Secretary, will provide an overview of the interim financial results along with management’s outlook for the business, followed by a question-and-answer period.

    The webcast and presentation will be accessible on the company’s website. The webcast can be accessed here and the telephone number for the conference call is 844-481-3016 (412-317-1881 for international callers).

    About Xtract One Technologies

    Xtract One Technologies is a leading technology-driven threat detection and security solution leveraging AI to provide seamless and secure patron access control experiences. The Company makes unobtrusive weapons and threat detection systems that are designed to assist facility operators in prioritizing- and delivering improved “Walk-right-In” experiences while enhancing safety. Xtract One’s innovative portfolio of AI-powered Gateway solutions excels at allowing facilities to discreetly screen and identify weapons and other threats at points of entry and exit without disrupting the flow of traffic. With solutions built to serve the unique market needs for schools, hospitals, arenas, stadiums, manufacturing, distribution, and other customers, Xtract One is recognized as a market leader delivering the highest security in combination with the best individual experience. For more information, visit www.xtractone.com or connect on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. 

    About Threat Detection and Security Solutions

    Xtract One solutions, when properly configured, deployed, and utilized, are designed to help enhance safety and reduce threats. Given the wide range of potential threats in today’s world, no threat detection system is 100% effective. Xtract One solutions should be utilized as one element in a multilayered approach to physical security.

    For further information, please contact:

    Xtract One Inquiries: info@xtractone.com, http://www.xtractone.com    
    Media Contact: Kristen Aikey, JMG Public Relations, 212-206-1645, kristen@jmgpr.com
    Investor Relations: Chris Witty, Darrow Associates, 646-438-9385, cwitty@darrowir.com

    1Supplementary Financial Measures:

    The Company utilizes specific supplementary financial measures in this earnings release to allow for a better evaluation of the operating performance of the Company’s business and facilitates meaningful comparison of results in the current period with those in prior periods and future periods. Supplementary financial measures do not have any standardized meaning prescribed under IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to measures presented by other companies. Supplementary financial measures presented in this earnings release include ‘Agreements pending installation’ and ‘Total contract value of new bookings.’ Agreements pending installation reflects total value of signed contracts awarded to the Company that has not been installed at the customer site. ‘Total contract value of new bookings’ is comprised of all new contracts signed and awarded to the Company, regardless of the performance obligations outstanding as of the end of the reporting period. Total contract value is the aggregate value of sales commitments from customers as at the end of the reporting period without consideration of the Company’s completion of the associated performance obligations outlined in each contract.

    CAUTIONARY DISCLAIMER STATEMENT:

    This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements are often identified by terms such as “will”, “may”, “should”, “anticipates”, “expects”, “believes”, and similar expressions or the negative of these words or other comparable terminology. All statements other than statements of historical fact, included in this release are forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company’s expectations include but are not limited to the risks detailed from time to time in the continuous disclosure filings made by the Company with securities regulations. The reader is cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any forward-looking information may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted, as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and the Company will update or revise publicly any of the included forward-looking statements only as expressly required by applicable law.

    No securities exchange or commission has reviewed or accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    Unaudited Interim Statements of Loss and Comprehensive Loss for the Three and Nine Months Ended April 30, 2025 and 2024

    The following table is extracted from the Company’s unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements and presented in Canadian dollars to demonstrate the Statements of Loss and Comprehensive loss for the three and nine months ended April 30, 2025 and 2024:

          Three months ended April 30,   Nine months ended April 30,  
            2025       2024       2025       2024    
                         
    Revenue   $ 3,466,433     $ 4,683,639     $ 10,506,459 $ 10,720,050  
                         
    Cost of revenue     1,489,181       1,977,223       3,811,031       4,145,551    
                         
    Gross profit   $ 1,977,252     $ 2,706,416     $ 6,695,428     $ 6,574,499    
                         
    Operating expenses                  
      Selling and marketing   $ 1,563,446     $ 1,259,445     $ 4,451,180     $ 4,066,829    
      General and administration     1,854,764       1,936,552       5,367,644       5,277,387    
      Research and development     1,638,988       2,182,756       5,078,617       5,967,553    
      Loss on inventory write-down     26,868       4,167       308,297       111,180    
      Loss on retirement of assets     2,029       40,538       23,704       40,538    
    Total operating expenses   $ 5,086,095     $ 5,423,458     $ 15,229,442     $ 15,463,487  
                         
    Loss before the undernoted     (3,108,843 )     (2,717,042 )     (8,534,014 )     (8,888,988 )  
                         
    Other income                  
      Interest and other income     28,606       44,704       170,196       197,287    
                         
    Net loss for the period   $ (3,080,237 )   $ (2,672,338 ) $ (8,363,818 )   $ (8,691,701 )
                         
    Other comprehensive income (loss) for the period                
      Currency translation differences for foreign operations     (197,348 )     –       348,771       –    
                         
    Comprehensive loss for the period   $ (3,277,585 )   $ (2,672,338 ) $ (8,015,047 )   $ (8,691,701 )
                         
    Weighted average number of shares     218,426,987       200,110,734       218,415,199       198,924,490    
                         
    Basic and diluted loss per share   $ (0.02 )   $ (0.01 )   $ (0.04 )   $ (0.04 )  
                         

    Unaudited Interim Statements of Financial Position as of April 30, 2025 and July 31, 2024

    The following table is extracted from the Company’s unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements and presented in Canadian dollars to demonstrate the Company’s financial position as of April 30, 2025 and July 31, 2024:

          April 30, 2025   July 31, 2024
    Assets        
    Current assets        
      Cash and cash equivalents (Note 15)   $ 1,921,103     $ 8,628,521  
      Receivables (Note 4)     1,301,903       3,862,199  
      Prepaid expenses and deposits     2,423,043       949,012  
      Current portion of deferred cost of revenue (Note 6)     397,649       371,309  
      Inventory (Note 5)     3,463,467       3,688,246  
               
            9,507,165       17,499,287  
               
    Property and equipment (Note 7)     2,326,031       2,135,956  
    Intangible assets (Note 8)     4,730,705       4,465,755  
    Non-current portion of deferred cost of revenue (Note 6)     280,467       496,868  
    Right of use assets (Note 9)     928,941       344,304  
               
    Total assets   $ 17,773,309     $ 24,942,170  
               
    Liabilities        
    Current liabilities        
      Accounts payable and accrued liabilities   $ 1,771,976     $ 3,991,292  
      Current portion of deferred revenue (Note 10)     5,247,967       3,443,524  
      Current portion of lease liability (Note 9)     156,797       190,400  
               
            7,176,740       7,625,216  
    Non-Current liabilities        
      Non-current portion of deferred revenue (Note 10)     2,841,068       3,155,579  
      Non-current portion of lease liability (Note 9)     923,972       190,526  
               
          $ 10,941,780     $ 10,971,321  
               
    Shareholders’ equity        
      Share capital (Note 13)   $ 144,398,090     $ 144,372,452  
      Contributed surplus     17,014,039       16,163,950  
      Accumulated deficit     (154,929,371 )     (146,565,553 )
      Accumulated other comprehensive income     348,771       –  
               
          $ 6,831,529     $ 13,970,849  
               
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity   $ 17,773,309     $ 24,942,170  
               

    Unaudited Interim Statements of Cash Flows for the Nine Months Ended April 30, 2025 and 2024

    The following table is extracted from the Company’s unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements and presented in Canadian dollars to demonstrate the Company’s cash flows for the nine month periods ended April 30, 2025 and 2024:

            Nine months ended April 30,    
              2025       2024      
    Cash flow used in operating activities            
      Loss for the period   $ (8,363,818 )   $ (8,691,701 )    
      Adjustment for:            
        Share-based compensation (Notes 13, 14)     858,758       668,555      
        Depreciation (Notes 7, 9, 12)     1,084,022       938,567      
        Amortization (Notes 8, 12)     637,279       604,425      
        Finance cost (Notes 9)     34,020       17,839      
        Loss on retirement of assets     23,704       40,538      
        Loss on inventory (Note 5)     308,297       111,180      
                     
              (5,417,738 )     (6,310,597 )    
      Changes in non-cash working capital            
        Receivables     2,610,436       (3,266,008 )    
        Prepaid expenses and deposits     (1,469,555 )     334,746      
        Inventory     (793,081 )     (3,664,444 )    
        Deferred cost of revenue (Note 6)     190,061       172,754      
        Accounts payable and accrued liabilities     (2,232,051 )     942,696      
        Deferred revenue     1,540,851       5,357,879      
                     
      Cash used in operating activities     (5,571,077 )     (6,432,974 )    
                     
    Cash flow used in investing activities            
      Purchase of property, plant and equipment (Note 7)     (185,045 )     –      
      Internally developed intangible assets (Note 8)     (729,730 )     –      
      Proceeds from disposal of property, plant and equipment     1,000       –      
      Acquisition of right of use asset (Note 9)     (5,028 )     –      
                     
      Cash used in investing activities     (918,803 )     –      
                     
    Cash flow used in financing activities            
      Proceeds on issue of share capital     16,970       8,131,985      
      Lease payments (Note 9)     (214,358 )     (286,066 )    
                     
      Cash (used) received in financing activities     (197,388 )     7,845,919      
                     
      Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents   (20,150 )     –      
                     
    Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents for the period $ (6,707,418 )   $ 1,412,945      
                     
    Cash and cash equivalents beginning of the period   8,628,521       8,327,449      
                     
    Cash and cash equivalents end of the period   $ 1,921,103     $ 9,740,394      
                     

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Kyivstar Group Reports First Quarter 2025 Financial Results in Conjunction with its Nasdaq Listing Process

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Total operating revenue reaches USD 255 million or UAH 10.6 billion, up 37.1% year-on-year in USD and 49.6% in local currency terms
    • Profit for the period amounts to USD 44 million, up 22.2% year-on-year in USD and 33.7% in local currency terms, with a profit margin of 17.3%
    • Adjusted EBITDA1 reaches USD 140 million, up 50.5% year-on-year in USD and 64.6% in local currency terms, with an adjusted EBITDA margin1 of 54.9%
    • Completes acquisition of Uklon, Ukraine’s leading ride-hailing business, and increases stake in Ukraine’s leading digital health platform Helsi, subsequent to quarter-end

    KYIV, Ukraine, June 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kyivstar Group, Ukraine’s leading digital operator (“Kyivstar Group” or “the Company”) and a subsidiary of VEON Ltd. (Nasdaq: VEON) (“VEON Group” or “VEON”), today announced its unaudited financial and operating results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025.

      1Q25 1Q24 YoY 1Q25 1Q24 YoY
      USD mln or % UAH bln or %
    Total operating revenue 255 186 37.1 % 10.6 7.1 49.6 %
    Profit for the period 44 36 22.2 % 1.8 1.4 33.7 %
    Adj. EBITDA1 140 93 50.5 % 5.8 3.6 64.6 %
    Average UAH/USD exchange rates: 1Q25: 41.7563 UAH/USD; 1Q24: 38.1727 UAH/USD
    End-of period UAH/USD exchange rates as of March 31, 2025: 41.4787 UAH/USD; as of March 31, 2024: 39.2214 UAH/USD
    1For more information, see section titled “Presentation of Non-IFRS Financial Measures” at the end of this press release, including the reconciliations of non-IFRS measures to IFRS measures.
     

    “Kyivstar Group continues to deliver exceptional value to our customers and stakeholders, leveraging our market-leading network and innovative digital services to drive growth,” said Oleksandr Komarov, CEO of Kyivstar Group. “Our first quarter results reflect the strength of our digital operator strategy, delivering robust financial growth. In parallel, we continue to invest in strategic opportunities that drive Ukraine’s digital future, such as the acquisition of Uklon and increasing our stake in Helsi. We are excited to complement this operational performance with the continued progress towards our plans to list Kyivstar Group on the Nasdaq Stock Market.” 

    First Quarter 2025 Financial and Operational Highlights

    • Robust Revenue Growth: Total operating revenue for 1Q25 was USD 255 million, up 37.1% year-on-year in USD and 49.6% year-on-year in local currency terms. This result includes the impact of the customer appreciation program undertaken by the Company in the first quarter of 2024 following a cyber security incident at the end of 2023, which lowered revenue in the first quarter of 2024 by an estimated USD 46 million (UAH 1.7 billion) in value. Excluding the impact of the customer appreciation program, local currency revenue growth was 20.1% year-on-year in 1Q25.
    • Strong Profitability: Adjusted EBITDA for 1Q25 was USD 140 million, up 50.5% year-on-year. This represents an adjusted EBITDA margin of 54.9% in 1Q25. In local currency terms, 1Q25 adjusted EBITDA growth was 64.6% year-on-year, and adjusted EBITDA margin was 54.9%, driven by revenue growth and a decrease in operating costs. Excluding the impact of the customer appreciation program, local currency adjusted EBITDA growth was 10.2% year-on-year in 1Q25.
    • Multiplay Customers Supporting Growth: The Multiplay customer base, which are customers who use at least one digital application in addition to 4G data and voice connectivity, was up by 40.7% year-on-year to 6.1 million customers, and represented 29.5% of one-month-active mobile customersi reflecting increased adoption of digital products.
    • Digital Services Users: Total digital monthly active users across Kyivstar Group’s digital applications MyKyivstar, Kyivstar TV and Helsi reached 10.3 million in 1Q25, up 32.9% from 7.7 million a year earlier.

    Strategic Milestones:

    • Announced business combination agreement with Cohen Circle Acquisition Corp. I (Nasdaq: CCIR) (“Cohen Circle”), beginning the process for Kyivstar Group to be the only pure-play Ukrainian investment opportunity on U.S. stock markets.
    • Completed the acquisition of Uklon, a leading Ukrainian ride-hailing and delivery platform, for approximately USD 155.2 million in April 2025. Uklon operates in 28 cities across Ukraine and facilitated more than 100 million rides and 3 million deliveries in 2024, and also provides ride-hailing services in Uzbekistan.
    • Increased ownership stake in Helsi, Ukraine’s largest digital platform, from 69.99% to 97.99% in May 2025. Helsi is a digital data management platform supporting the provision of healthcare services and improving patients’ access to healthcare with over 9.4 million appointments booked in the year ended December 31, 2024.

    The results announcement is made concurrently with Kyivstar Group and VEON Holdings B.V.’s filing of a registration statement on Form F-4 (File No. 333-287802) in conjunction with Kyivstar’s anticipated listing on the Nasdaq Stock Market LLC (“Nasdaq”) following the anticipated completion of a business combination with Cohen Circle that was previously announced on March 18, 2025.

    With the announcement of its 1Q2025 results, Kyivstar Group also updated the investor presentation available to its potential investors. A copy of the investor presentation will be available on a Current Report on Form 8-K to be filed by Cohen Circle with the SEC and available at www.sec.gov.

    Additional Information and Where to Find It

    Kyivstar Group Ltd. and VEON Holdings B.V. have filed on June 5, 2025 a registration statement on Form F-4 (File No. 333-287802) (as may be amended from time to time, the “Registration Statement) as co-registrants that includes a preliminary proxy statement/prospectus of Cohen Circle and a preliminary prospectus of Kyivstar Group. When available, Cohen Circle will mail a definitive proxy statement/prospectus relating to the business combination and other relevant documents to its shareholders. This communication does not contain all the information that should be considered concerning the business combination and is not intended to provide the basis for any investment decision or any other decision in respect of the business combination. VEON, Cohen Circle and Kyivstar Group may also file other documents regarding the business combination with the SEC. Cohen Circle’s shareholders and other interested persons are advised to read, when available, the Registration Statement, the proxy statement/prospectus and other documents filed in connection with the business combination, as these materials will contain important information. Investors and shareholders will be able to obtain free copies of the preliminary proxy statement/prospectus, the definitive proxy statement/prospectus and other documents filed or will be filed with the SEC by Cohen Circle through the website maintained by the SEC website at www.sec.gov or by directing a written request to: Cohen Circle Acquisition Corp. I, 2929 Arch Street, Suite 1703, Philadelphia, PA 19104.

    About Kyivstar Group

    Kyivstar Group operates Ukraine’s leading digital operator, serving more than 23 million mobile customers and over 1.1 million home internet fixed line customers as of December 31, 2024. Kyivstar Group and its subsidiaries provide services across a wide range of mobile and fixed line technologies, including 4G, big data, cloud solutions, cybersecurity, digital TV, and more. VEON, together with Kyivstar Group, intends to invest USD 1 billion in Ukraine during 2023-2027, through social investments in infrastructure and technological development, charitable donations and strategic acquisitions. Kyivstar Group and its subsidiaries have been operating in Ukraine for more than 27 years. For more information, visit: www.kyivstar.ua.

    About VEON

    VEON is a digital operator that provides converged connectivity and digital services to nearly 160 million customers. Operating across six countries that are home to more than 7% of the world’s population, VEON is transforming lives through technology-driven services that empower individuals and drive economic growth. VEON is listed on Nasdaq. For more information, visit: https://www.veon.com.

    About Cohen Circle

    Cohen Circle Acquisition Corp. I is a special purpose acquisition company sponsored by investment firm Cohen Circle, LLC and formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more technology and/or financial services businesses. Cohen Circle’s units, Class A ordinary shares and warrants are listed on Nasdaq under the symbols “CCIRU,” “CCIR” and “CCIRW,” respectively.

    No Offer or Solicitation

    This press release shall not constitute a solicitation of a proxy, consent, or authorization with respect to any securities or in respect of the transactions mentioned herein or the proposed business combination with Cohen Circle. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any states or jurisdictions in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. No offering of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

    Participants in the Solicitation

    Cohen Circle, Kyivstar Group, certain shareholders of Cohen Circle, VEON and certain of Cohen Circle’s, Kyivstar Group’s and VEON’s respective directors, executive officers and other members of management and employees may, under SEC rules, be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from the shareholders of Cohen Circle with respect to the proposed business combination. A list of the names of such persons and information regarding their interests in the proposed business combination is set forth in the Registration Statement. Free copies of these documents may be obtained from the sources indicated above.

    Financial Information Presented

    Kyivstar Group’s results and other financial information presented in this document are, unless otherwise stated, prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) and have not been externally reviewed and/or audited. The financial information included in this document is preliminary and is based on a number of assumptions that are subject to inherent uncertainties and subject to change. The financial information presented herein is based on internal management accounts, is the responsibility of management and is subject to financial closing procedures which have not yet been completed and has not been audited, reviewed or verified. Certain amounts and percentages that appear in this document have been subject to rounding adjustments. As a result, certain numerical figures shown as totals, may not be an exact arithmetic aggregation of the figures that precede or follow them. Although we believe the information to be reasonable, actual results may vary from the information contained above and such variations could be material. As such, you should not place undue reliance on this information. This information may not be indicative of the actual results for the current period or any future period.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements,” as the phrase is defined in Section 27A of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements generally are identified by the words “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “future,” “intend,” “may,” “opportunity,” “plan,” “project,” “should,” “strategy,” “will,” “will be,” “will continue,” “will likely result,” “would” and similar expressions (including the negative versions of such words or expressions).

    Forward-looking statements are predictions, projections and other statements about future events that are based on current expectations and assumptions and, as a result, are subject to risks and uncertainties. All statements contained in this press release that do not relate to matters of historical fact should be considered forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements relating to, among other things, the timing of the closing of the proposed business combination and the listing of Kyivstar Group’s common shares and warrants on Nasdaq, the expected investment opportunity in Kyivstar Group following the closing of the business combination, including the expectation that Kyivstar Group will be the only pure-play Ukrainian investment opportunity and the growth potential of Kyivstar Group. These statements are based on VEON, Cohen Circle and Kyivstar Group management’s current expectations. These statements are neither promises nor guarantees, but involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that may cause Kyivstar Group’s, VEON’s or Cohen Circle’s actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements in this press release, including, but not limited to, the inability to complete the business combination due to the failure to obtain the necessary shareholder approvals or to satisfy other conditions to closing; changes to the proposed structure of the business combination that may be required or appropriate as a result of applicable laws or regulations; the decision by the SEC to deem effective the Registration Statement; the ability to meet the Nasdaq listing standards upon closing of the business combination and admission of Kyivstar Group for trading on Nasdaq; changes in applicable laws or regulations; the escalation or de-escalation of war between Russia and Ukraine; the successful integration of Uklon; continued growth in digital services; and other risks and uncertainties set forth in the section entitled “Risk Factors” included in the Registration Statement filed by Kyivstar Group with the SEC on June 5, 2025 and in any other subsequent filings with the SEC by Kyivstar Group or Cohen Circle. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which VEON, Kyivstar Group and Cohen Circle cannot predict with accuracy and some of which neither VEON, Kyivstar Group nor Cohen Circle might not even anticipate. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date of this release. VEON, Kyivstar Group and Cohen Circle do not undertake to publicly update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after such date or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as required by U.S. federal securities laws.

    Presentation of Non-IFRS Financial Measures and Performance Metrics

    In addition to the results provided in accordance with IFRS throughout this press release, Kyivstar Group has provided the non-IFRS financial measures Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin (the “Non-IFRS Financial Measures”), as well as key performance indicators mobile ARPU, multiplay customers and total digital MAU.

    Kyivstar Group defines Adjusted EBITDA as earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, amortization, impairment, gain/loss on disposals of non-current assets, net foreign exchange gain and other non-operating gains/losses, net. Kyivstar Group defines Adjusted EBITDA Margin as Adjusted EBITDA divided by total operating revenues. Kyivstar Group uses the Non-IFRS Financial Measures in addition to its results determined in accordance with IFRS in order to evaluate its financial and operating performance, to generate future operating plans and make strategic decisions. Kyivstar Group believes that the Non-IFRS Financial Measures may be helpful to investors because they provide additional tools for investors to use in evaluating its ongoing operating results and trends and in comparing its financial results with other companies operating in similar industries because they provide consistency and comparability with past financial performance. The Non-IFRS Financial Measures are not intended to replace, and should not be considered superior to, the presentation of the Kyivstar Group financial results in accordance with IFRS. The Non-IFRS Financial Measures may not be comparable to other similarly entitled measures computed by other companies.

    The following table presents reconciliations of Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin to the most directly comparable IFRS financial performance measures, which are profit for the period and profit margin, respectively:

        Three months ended
    March 31,
    2025    		   Three months ended
    March 31,
    2024    		  
    (USD in millions)          
    Profit for the period   44     36  
    Income taxes   14     9  
    Profit before tax   58     45  
    Depreciation   31     31  
    Amortization   13     12  
    Impairment, net   2     1  
    Finance costs   21     21  
    Finance income   (7)     (8)  
    Other non-operating gain/(loss), net   1     (1)  
    Net foreign exchange (loss)/gain   21     (8)  
    Adjusted EBITDA   140     93  
    Profit margin   17%     19%  
    Adjusted EBITDA Margin   55%     50%  
                 

    Key Performance Indicators

    Mobile ARPU measures the monthly average revenue per mobile user. Kyivstar Group calculates mobile ARPU by dividing its mobile service revenue (excluding guest roaming and wholesale interconnection revenue) during the relevant period by the average number of its mobile customers during the period and dividing by the number of months in that period. Mobile service revenue used to calculate mobile ARPU excludes guest roaming and wholesale interconnection revenue, as this revenue is not generated by Kyivstar Group’s customers but are proceeds received by other operators for the services received by its subscribers.

    Multiplay customers are doubleplay 4G customers who also used one or more of Kyivstar Group’s digital products at any time during the one month prior to such measurement date.

    Total digital MAU is a gross total cumulative MAU of applications offered. Under this metric, a single individual who is active in more than one application is counted as a separate MAU under each such application, such that the total digital MAUs may include individuals being counted more than once.

    Contact Information

    Kyivstar Group

    Media and Investor Contact:
    Kyivstar@icrinc.com

    VEON Media Contact
    Email: pr@veon.com

    i Multiplay as a % of total active Kyivstar one-month subscriber base in March 2025 (unique active subscribers over one-month period)

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Kyivstar Group Reaches Nasdaq Listing Milestone with Public Filing of Registration Statement on Form F-4

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KYIV, Ukraine, June 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kyivstar Group Ltd., Ukraine’s leading digital operator (“Kyivstar Group” or “the Company”) and a subsidiary of VEON Ltd. (Nasdaq: VEON) (“VEON Group” or “VEON”), today announced the public filing of its Registration Statement on Form F-4 (the “Registration Statement”) with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”).

    This filing represents a milestone in Kyivstar Group’s plans to be listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market LLC (“Nasdaq”) following the anticipated completion of a business combination with Cohen Circle Acquisition Corp. I (Nasdaq: CCIR) (“Cohen Circle”) that was announced on March 18, 2025.

    Today, as we announce the public filing of our Registration Statement, we are excited to complement our operational performance with the continued progress towards our plans to list Kyivstar Group on the Nasdaq Stock Market,”  said Oleksandr Komarov, CEO of Kyivstar Group.  “We are excited to be a company that not only delivers exceptional value to our customers, but also represents a compelling investment opportunity for U.S. and global investors interested in Ukraine’s growth and resilience.”

    The closing of the business combination is expected to occur during the third quarter of 2025 and is subject to the approval of Cohen Circle’s shareholders and other customary closing conditions.

    Additional Information and Where to Find It

    Kyivstar Group Ltd. and VEON Holdings B.V. have filed on June 5, 2025 a registration statement on Form F-4 (File No. 333-287802) (as may be amended from time to time, the “Registration Statement”) as co-registrants that includes a preliminary proxy statement/prospectus of Cohen Circle and a preliminary prospectus of Kyivstar Group. When available, Cohen Circle will mail a definitive proxy statement/prospectus relating to the business combination and other relevant documents to its shareholders. This communication does not contain all the information that should be considered concerning the business combination and is not intended to provide the basis for any investment decision or any other decision in respect of the business combination.  VEON, Cohen Circle and Kyivstar Group may also file other documents regarding the business combination with the SEC. Cohen Circle’s shareholders and other interested persons are advised to read, when available, the Registration Statement, the proxy statement/prospectus and other documents filed in connection with the business combination, as these materials will contain important information. Investors and shareholders will be able to obtain free copies of the preliminary proxy statement/prospectus, the definitive proxy statement/prospectus and other documents filed or will be filed with the SEC by Cohen Circle through the website maintained by the SEC website at www.sec.gov or by directing a written request to: Cohen Circle Acquisition Corp. I, 2929 Arch Street, Suite 1703, Philadelphia, PA 19104.

    About Kyivstar Group

    Kyivstar Group operates Ukraine’s leading provider of mobile communication, serving more than 23 million mobile customers and over 1.1 million home internet fixed line customers as of December 31, 2024. Kyivstar Group and its subsidiaries provide services across a wide range of mobile and fixed line technologies, including 4G, big data, cloud solutions, cybersecurity, digital TV, and more. VEON, together with Kyivstar Group, intends to invest USD 1 billion in Ukraine by 2027, through social investments in infrastructure and technological development, charitable donations and strategic acquisitions. Kyivstar Group and its subsidiaries have been operating in Ukraine for more than 27 years. For more information, visit: www.kyivstar.ua

    About VEON

    VEON is a digital operator that provides converged connectivity and digital services to nearly 160 million customers. Operating across six countries that are home to more than 7% of the world’s population, VEON is transforming lives through technology-driven services that empower individuals and drive economic growth. VEON is listed on Nasdaq. For more information, visit: https://www.veon.com.

    About Cohen Circle

    Cohen Circle Acquisition Corp. I is a special purpose acquisition company sponsored by investment firm Cohen Circle, LLC and formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more technology and/or financial services businesses. Cohen Circle’s units, Class A ordinary shares and warrants are listed on Nasdaq under the symbols “CCIRU,” “CCIR” and “CCIRW,” respectively.

    No Offer or Solicitation

    This press release shall not constitute a solicitation of a proxy, consent, or authorization with respect to any securities or in respect of the transactions mentioned herein or the proposed business combination with Cohen Circle. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any states or jurisdictions in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. No offering of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

    Participants in the Solicitation

    Cohen Circle, Kyivstar Group, certain shareholders of Cohen Circle, VEON and certain of Cohen Circle’s, Kyivstar Group’s and VEON’s respective directors, executive officers and other members of management and employees may, under SEC rules, be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from the shareholders of Cohen Circle with respect to the proposed business combination. A list of the names of such persons and information regarding their interests in the proposed business combination is set forth in the Registration Statement. Free copies of these documents may be obtained from the sources indicated above.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements,” as the phrase is defined in Section 27A of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements generally are identified by the words “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “future,” “intend,” “may,” “opportunity,” “plan,” “project,” “should,” “strategy,” “will,” “will be,” “will continue,” “will likely result,” “would” and similar expressions (including the negative versions of such words or expressions).

    Forward-looking statements are predictions, projections and other statements about future events that are based on current expectations and assumptions and, as a result, are subject to risks and uncertainties. All statements contained in this press release that do not relate to matters of historical fact should be considered forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements relating to, among other things, the timing of the closing of the proposed business combination and the listing of Kyivstar Group’s common shares and warrants on Nasdaq, the expected investment opportunity in Kyivstar Group following the closing of the business combination, including the expectation that Kyivstar Group will be the only pure-play Ukrainian investment opportunity and the growth potential of Kyivstar Group. These statements are based on VEON, Cohen Circle and Kyivstar Group management’s current expectations. These statements are neither promises nor guarantees, but involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that may cause Kyivstar Group’s, VEON’s or Cohen Circle’s actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements in this press release, including, but not limited to, the inability to complete the business combination due to the failure to obtain the necessary shareholder approvals or to satisfy other conditions to closing; changes to the proposed structure of the business combination that may be required or appropriate as a result of applicable laws or regulations; the decision by the SEC to deem effective the Registration Statement; the ability to meet the Nasdaq listing standards upon closing of the business combination and admission of Kyivstar Group for trading on Nasdaq; changes in applicable laws or regulations; the escalation or de-escalation of war between Russia and Ukraine; the successful integration of Uklon; continued growth in digital services; and other risks and uncertainties set forth in the section entitled “Risk Factors” included in the Registration Statement filed by Kyivstar Group with the SEC on June 5, 2025 and in any other subsequent filings with the SEC by Kyivstar Group or Cohen Circle. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which VEON, Kyivstar Group and Cohen Circle cannot predict with accuracy and some of which neither VEON, Kyivstar Group nor Cohen Circle might not even anticipate. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date of this release. VEON, Kyivstar Group and Cohen Circle do not undertake to publicly update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after such date or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as required by U.S. federal securities laws.

    Contact Information

    Kyivstar Group

    Media and Investor Contact:
    Kyivstar@icrinc.com

    VEON

    Media Contact:
    Email: pr@veon.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Super Squad Competition Winner

    Source: US Marines (video statements)

    Marines with Kilo Company, 3rd Battalion, 2d Marine Regiment, 2d Marine Division, won the 2025 Annual Marine Corps Super Squad Competition.

    The Marine Corps Super Squad Competition is an annual competition that utilizes simulated combat conditions to challenge competitors with a wide variety of complex and realistic scenarios to determine which Marine rifle squad most effectively demonstrates their combat capabilities and operational proficiency.

    Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia (May 12-15, 2025)

    (U.S. Marine Corps video by Cpl. Grace Stover)

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

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Security News: Justice Department Launches Investigation into Rhode Island for Race-Based Employment Preferences in Violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act

    Source: United States Department of Justice

    The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division has opened an investigation into the State of Rhode Island (“Rhode Island”) concerning potential race-based discrimination in state employment practices.

    The state of Rhode Island mandates state agencies set hiring targets that are effectively race-based employment quotas.[1] These statutorily mandated goals pressure state agencies to engage in discriminatory, and potentially unlawful, hiring practices. The Civil Rights Division’s Employment Litigation Section opened the investigation under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits employment discrimination based on race, national origin, and other protected characteristics.

    “The state of Rhode Island’s official hiring policy embraces racial discrimination, something the Supreme Court has long held to be unlawful,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Discrimination in the name of ‘diversity’ is not only fundamentally unjust, but it also violates federal law. The Civil Rights Division will investigate Rhode Island’s discriminatory policy and take appropriate action if warranted.”

    You can view the notice letter here

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department Launches Investigation into Rhode Island for Race-Based Employment Preferences in Violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act

    Source: United States Department of Justice

    The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division has opened an investigation into the State of Rhode Island (“Rhode Island”) concerning potential race-based discrimination in state employment practices.

    The state of Rhode Island mandates state agencies set hiring targets that are effectively race-based employment quotas.[1] These statutorily mandated goals pressure state agencies to engage in discriminatory, and potentially unlawful, hiring practices. The Civil Rights Division’s Employment Litigation Section opened the investigation under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits employment discrimination based on race, national origin, and other protected characteristics.

    “The state of Rhode Island’s official hiring policy embraces racial discrimination, something the Supreme Court has long held to be unlawful,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Discrimination in the name of ‘diversity’ is not only fundamentally unjust, but it also violates federal law. The Civil Rights Division will investigate Rhode Island’s discriminatory policy and take appropriate action if warranted.”

    You can view the notice letter here

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Pipeline project determined to be substantially started

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The chief executive assessment officer of the Environmental Assessment Office (EAO) has determined that the Prince Rupert Gas Transmission (PRGT) natural gas pipeline project has been substantially started.

    With this decision, the certificate remains in effect for the life of the project, unless it is cancelled or suspended pursuant to the Environmental Assessment Act. The environmental assessment certificate approving the PRGT project was issued in 2014, following the EAO’s environmental assessment. The certificate required the project to have been substantially started by Nov. 25, 2024, for it to remain valid.

    The EAO undertook a detailed assessment process that started at the end of November 2024, examining all evidence relevant to the matter of whether or not the project is substantially started. First Nations potentially impacted by the project had an opportunity to provide their views.

    The EAO developed a report on its findings from a field assessment of the project site, documentation from Prince Rupert Gas Transmission Ltd. and information from First Nations, Gitanyow Hereditary Chiefs, Gitxsan Wilps and members of the public for the decision-maker’s consideration. Only construction and other project-related activities by the proponent up to Nov. 25, 2024, were considered.

    As outlined in his reasons for decision, the chief executive assessment officer determined that the physical work completed is consistent with standard pipeline development, and together with other activities and investments undertaken, the company demonstrated a strong intention to advance the project in the near term.

    Substantial start determinations are made on a case-by-case basis, considering all relevant facts. Substantial start determinations are commonly delegated by the minister of environment and parks to the EAO’s chief executive assessment officer.

    EAO compliance and enforcement officers will continue to monitor the PRGT project throughout construction and operation to ensure the project meets all requirements in the project’s environmental assessment certificate.

    Quick Facts:

    • The PRGT project was approved in 2014 to run about 900 kilometres between Hudson’s Hope in northeastern B.C. and Lelu Island near Prince Rupert (the site of a previously proposed, but since cancelled, LNG processing facility). The project as approved includes both land and marine sections of pipeline, along with compressor and metering stations.
    • The PRGT project was acquired from TC Energy Corporation by Nisga’a Nation and Western LNG in March 2024, to supply natural gas to the proposed Ksi Lisims LNG facility, a project the EAO is currently assessing.
    • Prince Rupert Gas Transmission Ltd. applied to the EAO in 2024 to change the pipeline route to end on Pearse Island at the proposed Ksi Lisims LNG site. This amendment request is currently being assessed by the EAO.
    • The EAO is also assessing a separate amendment request received in 2024 to reroute the eastern portion of the pipeline between Chetwynd and Mackenzie, which includes moving the route south to follow part of an existing cleared right of way and shortening it by about 50 kilometres.
    • The PRGT pipeline project would transport approximately 2 billion cubic feet of natural gas per day, with capacity to expand to about 3.6 billion cubic feet per day.

    Learn More:

    Reasons for Determination: Prince Rupert Gas Transmission substantial start determination:
    https://www.projects.eao.gov.bc.ca/api/public/document/6841bac274cf8a00219ff411/dowload/PRGT_Reasons_for_Decisions.pdf

    EAO’s Analysis of a Substantially Started Determination Request: PRGT Project:

    https://www.projects.eao.gov.bc.ca/api/public/document/6841bb3b74cf8a00219ff42c/download/PRGT_EAO_Substantial_Start_Determination_Report.pdf

    EAO Substantial Start Determination Policy:
    https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/environment/natural-resource-stewardship/environmental-assessments/guidance-documents/2018-act/substantially_started_determination_policy_final.pdf

    EAO’s Prince Rupert Gas Transmission project information webpage:
    https://projects.eao.gov.bc.ca/p/588511d9aaecd9001b826b33/project-details

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Jury Convicts Pakistani Weapons Smuggler of Transporting Iranian Advanced Conventional Weapons Destined for the Houthis in Yemen

    Source: United States Attorneys General 7

    A federal jury convicted a Pakistani national today on charges related to smuggling Iranian-made advanced conventional weaponry destined for the Houthis in Yemen and threatening multiple witnesses.

    According to court records and evidence presented at trial, on the night of Jan. 11, 2024, U.S. Central Command Navy forces operating from the USS LEWIS B. PULLER, including Navy SEALs and members of the U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Security Response Team East, boarded an unflagged dhow, a small vessel, in the Arabian Sea off the coast of Somalia. The U.S. boarding team encountered 14 individual mariners on the vessel, including the captain, Muhammad Pahlawan, 49.

    During a search of the dhow, the U.S. boarding team located and seized Iranian-made advanced conventional weaponry, including ballistic missile components, anti-ship cruise missile components, and a warhead. The type of weaponry found aboard the dhow is consistent with the weaponry used by the Houthi rebel forces during the time of the charged conspiracy against merchant ships and U.S. military ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden after the October 7 Hamas attack in Israel. During the interdiction, Pahlawan lied to the boarding team, instructed other crewmembers to lie, and eventually threatened the lives of his crewmembers and their families.

    Pahlawan’s January 2024 trip was part of a larger operation. From in or around August 2023 through in or around January 2024, Pahlawan worked with two Iranian brothers, Shahab Mir’kazei (Shahab), and Yunus Mir’kazei (Yunus), affiliated with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to smuggle materials from Iran to the Houthi rebel forces in Yemen. Pahlawan completed multiple smuggling voyages, coordinated and funded by Shahab and Yunus, by traveling with cargo from Iran to the coast of Somalia and transporting that cargo to another vessel for a nighttime ship-to-ship transfer. Pahlawan worked with Shahab and Yunus to prepare the dhow for these smuggling voyages, received specific coordinates from them for the ship-to-ship transfers, and received multiple payments from them for his role in the smuggling operation.

    Pahlawan was convicted of: conspiring to provide material support and resources to terrorists, providing material support and resources to Iran’s weapons of mass destruction program, providing material support to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’s weapons of mass destruction program, conspiring to and indeed transporting explosive devices to the Houthis knowing those explosives would be used to cause harm, and threatening his crew. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 22 and most statutes of conviction include a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine sentences after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Sue J. Bai, head of the Justice Department’s National Security Division, U.S. Attorney Erik S. Siebert for the Eastern District of Virginia, Executive Assistant Director Jodi Cohen of the FBI’s National Security Branch; and Assistant Director in Charge Steven J. Jensen of the FBI Washington Field Office made the announcement.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Troy A. Edwards Jr. and Gavin R. Tisdale for the Eastern District of Virginia and Trial Attorney Joseph N. Kaster of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case. Former Eastern District of Virginia prosecutor Danya Atiyeh, former U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia Jessica Aber, and former National Security Division Trial Attorney Lesley Woods supported the case.

    The following government agencies provided invaluable support to the case: the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs, the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, the Department of Defense, the Diplomatic Security Service, the Department of Homeland Security, and the Department of State.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: BULGOLD Announces Non-Brokered Private Placement for Gross Proceeds of Up to $1 Million

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Not for distribution to United States newswire services or for dissemination in the United States

    TORONTO, June 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BULGOLD Inc. (TSXV: ZLTO) (the “Company” or “BULGOLD”) is pleased to announce a non-brokered private placement (the “Offering”) for gross proceeds of up to $1,000,000 from the sale of common shares of the Company (each, a “Share”) at a price of $0.05 per Share (the “Issue Price”).

    The Company has agreed to pay a finder’s fee to arm’s length parties for services rendered in respect of the Offering. The finder’s fee will consist of a cash fee equal to 7.0% of the gross proceeds from the sale of Shares sold to third parties sourced by the finders, and finder’s warrants equal in number to 7.0% of the Shares sold to third parties sourced by the finders (the “Finder’s Warrant”). Each Finder’s Warrant will entitle the holder to acquire one additional common share of the Company at an exercise price of $0.07 until the date which is 18 months from the closing date of the Offering.

    The Company intends to use the proceeds raised from the Offering for exploration as well as for general corporate purposes. The Offering is scheduled to close on or about June 30, 2025 and is subject to certain conditions including, but not limited to, receipt of all necessary approvals including the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange. The Shares will have a hold period ending on the day that is four months and one day following the closing date.

    The securities described herein have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act, or any state securities laws, and accordingly may not be offered or sold within the United States except in compliance with the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities requirements or pursuant to exemptions therefrom. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation to buy any securities in any jurisdiction.

    About BULGOLD Inc.

    BULGOLD is a gold exploration company focused on the exploration and development of mineral exploration projects in Central and Eastern Europe. The Company controls 100% of three quality quartz-adularia epithermal gold projects located in the Bulgarian and Slovak portions of the Western Tethyan Belt: the Lutila Gold Project, the Kostilkovo Gold Project and the Kutel Gold Project. Management of the Company believes that its assets show potential for high-grade, good-metallurgy, low-sulfidation epithermal gold mineralisation.

    On March 31, 2025, BULGOLD’s issued and outstanding shares were 27,597,928 of which approximately 40.3% were held by Founders, Directors and Management. Additional information about the Company is available on BULGOLD’s website (www.BULGOLD.com) and on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca).

    Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

    This press release contains forward‐looking statements and forward‐looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. These statements relate to future events or future performance and include statements relating to the use of proceeds of the Offering and the timing for closing of the Offering. The forward‐looking statements and information are based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by management of the Company. Although management of the Company believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward-looking statements and information are based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward‐looking statements and information since no assurance can be given that they will prove to be correct.

    Forward-looking statements and information are provided for the purpose of providing information about the current expectations and plans of management of the Company relating to the future. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such statements and information may not be appropriate for other purposes, such as making investment decisions. Since forward‐looking statements and information address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors and risks, including the inherent uncertainty of mineral exploration; risks related to title to mineral properties; and credit, market, currency, operational, commodity, geopolitical, liquidity and funding risks generally, including changes in economic conditions, interest rates or tax rates and general market and economic conditions. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward‐looking statements and information contained in this press release. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. The forward‐looking statements and information contained in this press release are made as of the date hereof and no undertaking is given to update publicly or revise any forward‐looking statements or information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless so required by applicable securities laws. The forward-looking statements and information contained in this press release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

    For further information, please contact:

    BULGOLD Inc.
    Sean Hasson, President and Chief Executive Officer
    Telephone: +359 887 560 545
    Email: sean.hasson@BULGOLD.com
    Website: www.BULGOLD.com

    The MIL Network –