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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Parliamentarians unite in Helsinki to advance gender equality in politics

    Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

    Headline: Parliamentarians unite in Helsinki to advance gender equality in politics

    Participants in the event ‘Realizing Gender Equality in and by Parliaments’. Helsinki, 3 June 2025 (OSCE) Photo details

    More than 60 parliamentarians and experts from Europe and Central Asia gathered at the Finnish Parliament for a two-day workshop on gender-sensitive parliaments, organized by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) with support from the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, and OSCE field operations. Entitled Realizing Gender Equality in and by Parliaments, the workshop highlighted the critical role of national parliaments in driving progress toward gender equality.
    “It is difficult to recognize inequality when you are on the side of the privileged. Equality work must be continuous to respond to societal changes. The goal of equality policy is a society in which every individual has the opportunity to grow to their full potential,” highlighted Tarja Filatov, Deputy Speaker of the Parliament of Finland in her opening remarks.
    “A gender-sensitive parliament does not only mean equal participation of women and men,” said OSCE PA President Pia Kauma. “It is much more than that. It reflects the diverse needs and experiences of all people in its work, structures, policies, and culture. That is why advocating for gender-sensitive parliaments does not mean favouring women. It simply benefits democracy, good governance, and peace and security.”
    In the 30 years since the Beijing Platform for Action set out international norms on women’s rights and gender equality, many national parliaments across the OSCE region have taken steps to implement gender-sensitive practices, often in co-operation with academia, civil society, and international partners. Some parliaments have conducted gender audits, developed parliamentary gender action plans, set up targeted gender equality committees, and introduced practices of gender-sensitive lawmaking and oversight. However, significant gaps remain, and much work is still required to ensure that all parliaments across the OSCE region become truly gender-sensitive institutions.
    “As institutions at the heart of our democracies parliaments are uniquely positioned to legislate for change, and at the same time they embody the values of equality, inclusivity and representation,” said Tea Jaliashvili, ODIHR’s First Deputy Director.
    The workshop provided a platform for Members of Parliament to reflect on how to embed gender equality more effectively within parliamentary work. Discussions underlined the importance of institutional reforms, gender-sensitive legislation and oversight, addressing violence against women in politics, and engaging men as active partners in advancing equality.
    A highlight of the workshop was the endorsement of the Helsinki Pledges on Gender-sensitive Parliaments in the OSCE Region by all participants. The Pledges call on national parliaments to commit to working towards gender-sensitive parliaments and targeted action to realise this aim in all their functions, from representation through lawmaking, to oversight.
    “All of the legislative work we do in our national parliaments needs to be looked carefully through the gender lens and unfortunately none of us is doing this well enough yet. We have to do better.  Also, we can do better in empowering women in business as well as in politics. We need to start engaging women from grass-roots level and support them for example with finding the proper funding”, said Saara Sofia Sirén, Finnish MP and the Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office on Gender.
    Participants agreed that the Helsinki Pledges should be discussed widely in parliaments across the OSCE region and used as a basis for action and dialogue.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man who threatened to stab father in rap video guilty of murder

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A man has been convicted of murdering a father in front of his young child in a barbershop in Leyton.

    Josh McKay, 33, was stabbed in the neck by Renai Belle in a targeted attack and died from his injuries at the scene. During the Metropolitan Police investigation, officers discovered a rap video showing Belle threaten Josh before the attack.

    On Wednesday, 4 June at the Old Bailey, Belle, 30 (20.02.95), of Swaythling Close, Edmonton was convicted of Josh’s murder and possession of a knife. A man and woman were also convicted of separate offences.

    Detective Inspector Chris Griffith, from Specialist Crime North, who led the investigation, said: “This was a savage and pre-planned attack, committed in broad daylight and with scant regard for passers-by. What took place left the local community reeling, and two young children without their father.

    “My heart goes out to Josh’s family and friends. He was a loving parent, whose life was ended in the most horrendous way.

    “I hope that today’s result provides Josh’s family with some closure, and allows the community to feel safer knowing that Belle is no longer free to commit such heinous crimes.”

    The court heard that Josh was at a barbershop on Lea Bridge Road with his son on Saturday, 6 July. Around 15:00hrs, as shown on CCTV seized by the investigation team, Belle entered the shop wearing a balaclava where he stabbed Josh in the neck in a pre-meditated attack following a long-standing dispute. Belle was then chased away by Josh.

    Members of the public rushed to Josh’s aid and attempted to provide medical treatment until the arrival of officers and paramedics. Despite their best efforts, Josh died from his injuries.

    A determined investigation began immediately in which officers painstakingly combed through more than 100 hours of CCTV footage to track Belle’s movements and understand what took place.

    Officers discovered that Belle was the passenger in a car being driven by his partner, Tenika Parker. Having seen Josh enter the barbershop, the pair drove to the address of man called Daniel Copper. In doorbell footage later seized, Cooper was seen providing Belle with the balaclava and knife that would be used minutes later to murder Josh. Belle was then driven back to the barbers nearby before stabbing Josh. He was helped to escape by Parker in the waiting car.

    A manhunt led to the arrest of Belle at an address in Pincott Road, SW19 on Monday 8 July, 2024.

    As part of officers’ determination to further establish a watertight case against Belle, officers carried out further enquiries. They discovered a rap video on YouTube showing Belle threaten Josh in advance of the attack, further proof that it was pre-planned.

    Parker was initially arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender on Sunday, 7 July in India Dock Road, Poplar. She was stopped by police while driving the car that had been identified as involved in the murder. During a search of Parker’s vehicle, officers found distinct black sliders Belle was seen wearing in CCTV footage, as well as traces of blood that officers sent for forensic testing. This provided a DNA match to Josh. Parker was rearrested on Wednesday, 2 October, and charged with perverting the course of justice after CCTV footage showed her attempting to clean her car after the attack to remove any evidence.

    Cooper was arrested after handing himself in to police on Thursday, 11 July. During a search at Cooper’s property, officers discovered two knives matching the branding of the weapon that was left at the scene of Josh’s murder. Forensic testing on the balaclava and knife discarded by Belle at the scene of Josh’s murder found DNA that matched with Cooper.

    Tenika Parker, 39 (21.02.86), of Canterbury Road, Leytonstone and Daniel Cooper, 22 (20.02.03) of Gosport Road, Leytonstone stood trial alongside Belle. Parker was convicted of possession of a knife and perverting the course of justice. Cooper had previously pleaded guilty to possession of a knife but was acquitted of other offences.

    Cooper will be sentenced at the Old Bailey on Friday, 6 June.

    Belle and Parker will be sentenced at the Old Bailey on Wednesday, 30 July.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Olli Rehn: Europe at the crossroads – common defence, re-emerging economy?

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    Presentation accompanying the speech

    Dear Friends of Bruegel and the Bank of Finland,

    It is a great pleasure to celebrate with you all today both the 20th anniversary of Bruegel and the 30th anniversary of Finland’s membership of the EU. It is indeed an honour to organise and hold this conference together with Bruegel and to celebrate Europe Day.

    The founders of Bruegel were truly visionary 20 years ago. They recognized a gap – a growing need for stronger economics-based analysis and research on the shaping of the European Union. Anchoring the think tank firmly with EU Member States was also a wise decision.

    I had the privilege and pleasure of being present – if not at Bruegel’s creation, then certainly at its institutional foundation – as economic policy advisor to Finland’s Prime Minister Matti Vanhanen. The Finnish Government, specifically the Ministry of Finance, decided to become a founding member institution. More recently, the Bank of Finland also joined the club, and we have made good use of Bruegel’s valuable work.

    Today, we all appreciate Bruegel for its diverse and independent research, which significantly enhances evidence-based and research-informed policymaking in Europe. Let me extend my warmest congratulations and wish you many more dynamic and productive years as Europe’s leading policy think tank.

    Dear Friends,

    Europe Day today marks the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration, which laid out the foundation for European integration. In 1950 Europe was still recovering from the human and economic devastation of the Second World War.

    From the Finnish standpoint, the immediate post-war years were not a brilliant time to be a small nation. As Private Rahikainen put it in Väinö Linna’s The Unknown Soldier, in response to a minister’s idealistic speech after the armistice in September 1944:

     “To hell with their damned speeches. When your powder’s all gone, it’s better to keep your mouth shut than go spouting about the rights of small nations. A dog raises his hind leg on them.”

    The Schuman Declaration nevertheless turned the tide and became the starting point for Pax Europaea, the long period of relative peace with notably few conflicts between European countries.

    Indeed, an essential manifestation of Europe as a peace project is the EU’s 2012 Nobel Peace Prize. The European Union had, by then, “for over six decades contributed to the advancement of peace and reconciliation, democracy and human rights in Europe”.

    Slide 2: Outline of today’s talk

    I’d like to structure my remarks today under three themes. First, the seismic geopolitical shift which the world is currently witnessing. Second, the need for immediate investments in common defence to secure Europe’s peace. And third, revitalising the EU economy through advancements in innovation, trade and productivity.

    Slide 3: Power politics is overshadowing the world economy

    Let me start with the shifting geopolitical landscape, which presents the EU with significant new security challenges.

    The rules-based international order, on which Europe built its post-war recovery, is under strain. Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump have each, in their own way, challenged this order − pushing for a world where great powers claim their spheres of influence and where might is only right. Such a tri-polar world would not be a world of peace and prosperity.

    Since the Second World War, for good reason we have trusted that it is in the enlightened self-interest of the United States to stand as the security backstop for the Euro-Atlantic community. To my mind, as a long-time student of US foreign and security policy, this self-interest has clearly been rational from the standpoint of the United States’ own national security and its global strategic interests and influence. However, the US is now making decisions based on a very different type of rationality that involves strained relations with the European Union.

    I am aware that some are holding out hope that this is just temporary – that we’ll be back to ‘the old normal’ in a few years. Two points on that. First, I would not bet on it – there is no guarantee of a policy U-turn, as we may be witnessing a deeper political current in the US. And second, even more fundamentally, we must ask: can European security over the longer term be left at the mercy of the political winds in Pennsylvania’s rust belt and seven swing states? Or should Europe finally take substantially greater responsibility for its own security?

    In my view, the answer is clear, given the current and probable future defence environment: Europe must build its own credible common defence. Supporting Ukraine and reinforcing European defence is imperative for the security of the whole of Europe. Common defence is a crucial European public good. We need a strong, independent Europe, capable of defending itself as the European pillar of Nato.

    The COVID-era recovery fund and earlier crisis responses have shown that the EU is capable of solidarity. A similar level of unity and quick decision-making is now needed for defence.

    Many EU countries have already increased defence spending. Germany has committed to major investments. Not all EU states currently have the fiscal capacity to follow suit. That’s why Europe must build joint capabilities, interoperable forces − and, if necessary, common financing.

    Europe would also benefit from a broad and liquid market for safe assets, such as the US enjoys. Bonds issued by EU institutions have consistently drawn strong investor demand. The currently unpredictable nature of US economic policy only increases the demand for stable investment options. Europe should capitalise on that by developing genuine safe assets – another field calling for Bruegel’s continued active input.

    Moreover, I have been reading with great interest about the proposal for a European Defence Mechanism (EDM), which was launched by Bruegel last month. Such an intergovernmental organisation would apparently be modelled on the existing and well-tested template of the European Stability Mechanism. I see many merits in this proposal and would love to dive deeper into this – but I shall refrain from doing so, as I suppose that the panel will shortly be discussing the EDM more closely.

    Let me nevertheless comment that Bruegel’s proposal includes cooperation with the United Kingdom, which shares our values and has a strong military. Despite no longer being part of the EU, the UK remains a key partner in Europe’s security architecture. I should also add that we cannot afford to be held back by foot-dragging or by hostile Member States, such as Hungary, which might wish to hinder progress.

    This is why we must, as Bruegel has done, search for creative solutions, typically driven by coalitions of the capable and willing, to ensure that we move forward with our shared goals.

    At the same time, we must work for more effective European institutional arrangements that better serve the common good. These should include a significantly larger EU budget and more streamlined decision-making structures.

    This is also an opportunity to make Europe economically and financially stronger, as we need a liquid and large market of safe assets, as I alluded to earlier. Could European defence bonds provide such safe assets? A precondition for this would be that these bonds would be used to finance genuine European public goods and be backed by larger common revenues in the future.

    Solidarity and unity within the EU are reinforced by standing together, demonstrating our commitment to collective security and prosperity. Let us recall that the Treaty on European Union offers the legal basis for common defence in its Article 42. Involvement from us all is vital in maintaining a united front and ensuring a peaceful and prosperous Europe for future generations.

    Slide 4: Growth in the euro area has been picking up

    My third and final theme is the re-emerging European economy. Yes, re-emerging, even though it provides a mixed picture today.

    Recent data has shown signs of recovery in the euro area, but the outlook remains clouded by exceptional uncertainty due to President Trump’s trade war. Employment is solid in the euro area, and unemployment is low at 6.2%. Private consumption has benefited from stronger real incomes. Investments in Europe’s common defence and infrastructure will bolster manufacturing further and strengthen long-term growth. Europe will continue to build up resilience against global shocks.

    With disinflation on track and the growth outlook weakening, we decided at the European Central Bank’s Governing Council meeting on 17 April to lower interest rates. This was the seventh reduction since last summer.

    Given the pervasive uncertainty, the Governing Council is maintaining full freedom of action in monetary policy. We will adjust our rates to bring inflation to 2% in the medium term – just as our strategy tells us to do.

    Slide 5: Bank of Finland’s scenario calculation: A trade war would weaken growth worldwide

    The elevated uncertainty brings me to the significant risks in our economic outlook, especially trade protectionism.

    An extensive trade war would weaken economic output worldwide, and we have already seen major turbulence in the global stock markets.

    Calculations by the Bank of Finland show that if the US were to impose tariffs targeting all imports from EU countries and China – raising them by 25 percentage points – and the EU were to take equivalent counter measures, world GDP could decline by over 0.5% in both 2025 and 2026. The impact on the euro area economy could be slightly greater, with the estimated GDP effect ranging from 0.7% to 1.5% in the first year, depending on the increased uncertainty and the extent of counter measures taken. With all the usual caveats, these figures illustrate the seriousness of the threat posed by a full-scale trade war.

    Bank of Finland’s earlier calculations concerning the effects of the trade war on the Finnish economy are in line with these estimated effects on the euro area economy. While the model estimations come with uncertainty, they consistently speak to significantly negative outcomes for open economies such as Finland, as a result of trade war.

    In my view, in the face of US protectionism, the European Commission’s response has been justified and rational. The Commission has rightly suggested a zero-for-zero tariff agreement between the EU and the US. While Europe remains committed to constructive negotiations with the US, the Commission has been preparing proportionate countermeasures to reinforce our negotiating position, with the aim of reaching a solution that benefits everybody and avoids further damage to growth.

    Slide 6: Investment needed now in security and productivity

    “This is Europe’s moment” has become a slogan of the era. But to what extent is there substance to it?

    No doubt, President Trump’s policies are compromising the United States’ economic and institutional dominance, while Europe’s position is benefiting from its stability and certain political developments.

    Yet, the fact remains that the size of the US bypasses the European economy significantly in many dimensions, especially in factor productivity and therefore in growth. Will Europe adopt Mario Draghi’s recommendations to boost productivity? European industry must strengthen its technological capabilities. Cutting-edge research and innovation, and investment in areas like AI, will be crucial.

    Furthermore, Europe’s Savings and Investment Union needs to be advanced. The US has a larger and more unified internal capital market which benefits from scaling, a strong venture capital ecosystem, and fewer regulatory hurdles. The US dollar may remain the world’s leading reserve currency at the centre of the global financial system. But many investors are keen to diversify their portfolios to euro-denominated assets, which will also strengthen the international role of the euro.

    The price of energy is a considerable burden to European competitiveness. Unlike the US, the EU has no abundant fossil fuel supplies, so there is no other viable strategy for increasing our energy security than decarbonisation and the green transition. The green transition in energy is not just climate action – it’s a geopolitical investment. So is the digital euro and the broader effort to bolster the international role of the euro.

    Human capital and academic freedom are among Europe’s greatest assets. As these freedoms are eroded in the United States, Europe has a unique opportunity. In my view, the EU should rapidly create a special visa programme for top researchers seeking intellectual freedom without political pressure. We must highlight Europe’s universities where critical thinking is encouraged and academic liberty protected. This is an investment in Europe’s future prosperity and influence.

    Slide 7: Conclusions

    To conclude, today’s world is experiencing yet another major transition, as it was 30 years ago when the Cold War came to an end. But now, unfortunately, it is moving in reverse gear.

    Europe’s external security and its soft power depend now on strengthening its hard power, particularly in terms of coordinated defence solutions. Moreover, despite the current uncertain geopolitical environment, international cooperation remains essential in a highly interconnected world. We stand for it.

    At the same time, Europe must strengthen its economic foundation by finding ways to increase productivity and hence fulfil its true potential. At the ECB, we will contribute to this by ensuring price stability and financial stability, thus laying the foundation for Europe’s economic and social re-emergence and long-term resilience.

    In sum, this truly is Europe’s moment. We must defend our way of life – solving conflict and making progress through reason, dialogue and democracy.

    As Reinhold Niebuhr, the theologian and international relations theorist from our western neighbour, once said:

    “The sad duty of politics is to establish justice in a sinful world.”

    That is precisely Europe’s task now – more so than for decades.

    Thank you!

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Olli Rehn: Walking a fine line – the European economy and ECB monetary policy in a shifting global landscape

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    Let me first thank the LCMA [Lorenzo Codogno Macro Advisors] for inviting me to speak at this conference. To kick off, I will briefly discuss the ongoing change in the global landscape and its implications for the economic outlook in the euro area and for the ECB’s monetary policy.

    Slide 2. Geopolitics overshadowing the economy

    Today, we are on the cusp of profound changes in the global trading and economic relations. A rules-based multilateral system is being challenged by deals-based bilateral relationships.

    From a European perspective, the uncertainty extends beyond economics. The security policy environment of Europe is currently transforming as rapidly as it did in the early 1990s, only this time in reverse.

    These developments come on top of challenges we were already grappling with: from climate change and Europe’s productivity slowdown to persistent conflict in the Middle East and China’s challenge to liberal world order.

    Slide 3. Shifting global landscape implies major uncertainty

    With the backlash of globalisation and the European security order being damaged, it is no exaggeration to say that the economic outlook for Europe is marked by pervasive and persistent uncertainty.

    And by any metric you wish to look at, uncertainty related to policy – particularly around US trade policy – has grown enormously. These developments are now reverberating also through financial markets, where we are witnessing heightened volatility across asset classes. Notably, the behaviour of US-related assets has been unusual, as investors reassess their view of the US economy.

    Tariffs will have a negative effect on growth in the short, medium and long term. Apart from direct effects, it is the pervasive uncertainty – especially policy uncertainty – that is detrimental to investment and economic activity.

    Taken together, the pervasive uncertainty and the tariffs themselves hold back the global growth momentum-which was already estimated to be weaker than that in the pre-pandemic era. As a result, downside risks dominate the outlook.

    Slide 4. The economic outlook is surrounded by downside risks  

    What does this all mean for the European economy?

    Based on recent data, the euro area economy was recovering pretty much in line with the ECB’s forecasts. Private consumption growth has strengthened due to the increase in real income, and tentative signs of improvement have emerged in the manufacturing sector, which has been under pressure for some time. Employment in the euro area is solid, and unemployment is at a historic low of 6.1%. The fiscal impulse from increasing spending and investments in Europe’s common defence and infrastructure will contribute to bolstering growth in the medium term.

    However, the trade war and the enormous uncertainty it brings are now holding back growth also in the euro area. Some of the downside risks foreseen in the ECB’s March projections have already materialised, and as a result, the growth outlook has further weakened.

    Slide 5. Inflation is converging towards the ECB’s 2% target

    Turning to the inflation outlook, the ECB’s March projections suggested that euro area inflation is stabilising at our 2% target over the medium term. Disinflation is well on track.

    A particularly important development is the decline in services inflation, which had remained stubbornly high at around 4%, but has now clearly moderated. Wage inflation, including forward-looking indicators, supports the view that underlying inflationary pressures are easing.

    Looking ahead, economists are largely unanimous that tariff increases will accelerate inflation in the US, but in the euro area the effects are two-way. The higher import costs increase some prices, but weaker growth dampens inflation.

    Most economists also assumed the euro to depreciate in response to US tariff actions. In fact, the opposite has occurred-adding further complexity to the inflation outlook. At the same time, China may redirect exports to Europe, potentially increasing supply and dampening prices further.

    Overall, financial markets seem to think that tariffs and the surrounding uncertainty will slow down euro area inflation, at least in the short term. This time I tend to agree with the markets. Taking into account these developments, I find it reasonable to assume that there are downside risks to the inflation outlook in the ECB’s March projections.

    Slide 6. The ECB retains full freedom of action due to uncertainty

    Against this growth and inflation outlook, we decided before Easter at the ECB Governing Council to cut rates again by 25 basis points. Since last June, we’ve cut rates seven times – from 4% to 2.25%. These moves support consumption and investment in the face of global headwinds.

    It is important that we remain vigilant about any deviations from our symmetric 2% inflation target, in line with our strategy. If inflation is projected to fall below our 2% inflation target over the medium term, then the right reaction is to cut rates further. I think it is important that we do not let any thresholds, such as an estimated neutral rate, constrain us.  This is a time for agile and active monetary policy.

    We will continue to decide on interest rates at each meeting in accordance with our three-element framework: the inflation outlook, the dynamics of underlying inflation and the strength of monetary policy transmission. Under the pervasive uncertainty, it is even more important than before that the Governing Council maintains full freedom of action in setting its monetary policy.

    And finally, while markets have been able to weather the recent volatility and are functioning well, we of course monitor the events closely and stand ready to use all instruments that are necessary in order to preserve price stability and financial stability.

    Let me conclude. In these uncertain times, we at the ECB will do our part in creating favourable conditions for Europe’s success. First and foremost, this means safeguarding the euro area’s price and financial stability. In the face of policy- or politics-driven turbulence and elevated uncertainty, a strong commitment to maintaining price stability over the medium term is more important than ever.

    Thank you for your attention. I will be glad to take any questions that you have.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Former world darts champion Rob Cross banned as director over unpaid taxes

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Former world darts champion Rob Cross banned as director over unpaid taxes

    Darts professional banned after company failed to pay hundreds of thousands of pounds in tax

    • Former world darts champion Rob Cross has been disqualified as a director after his company failed to pay more than £450,000 in tax 

    • The Insolvency Service also found Cross withdrew more than £300,000 from Rob Cross Darts Limited between March 2020 and November 2023 that should have gone to creditors 

    • Cross has now been banned as a company director until June 2030 and entered into an Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA) last year in a bid to pay off some of the money he owes 

    Former world darts champion Rob Cross has been banned as a director for five years after his company failed to pay more than £450,000 in tax. 

    Cross, known for winning the PDC World Darts Championship in 2018 and five World Series of Darts titles, was the director of Rob Cross Darts Limited, which was set up for the 34-year-old to receive his earnings and prize money. 

    However, between March 2020 and November 2023, Cross removed more than £300,000 in company money which should have been paid to creditors, including to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). 

    He had also taken out more than £400,000 from Rob Cross Darts Limited in the form of a director’s loan account by the time the company went into liquidation. 

    In an attempt to repay part of his debts, Cross has entered into an Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA), a legally binding agreement where he has committed to making regular payments to an insolvency practitioner. The monthly contributions Cross makes to the IVA will vary depending on the income he receives through his performances at darts tournaments during this year and future years. 

    Kevin Read, Chief Investigator at the Insolvency Service, said: 

    When directors fail to pay the correct amount of tax, it directly impacts the government’s ability to fund vital public services such as the NHS, schools, transport infrastructure, and our national defence.  

    Rob Cross’s company owed more than £400,000 in corporation tax alone when it went into liquidation. For more than three years, he withdrew funds from the company which should have gone to HMRC and other creditors. 

    This case demonstrates that we will pursue action against directors who deprive the public purse of much-needed funds. The rules apply equally to everyone in business, and we expect all company directors to comply with their legal responsibilities. 

    Enforcing these rules consistently is crucial in maintaining a level playing field and preventing companies from gaining an unfair competitive advantage over compliant businesses that properly fulfil their tax obligations.

    Rob Cross Darts Limited was formed in May 2017, with Cross appointed as director on the same day. 

    Insolvency Service investigations found that the company received just more than £1 million from Cross’s earnings between the start of March 2020 and the date of liquidation in November 2023. 

    A total of £169,500 in sponsorships and £261,901 from his management company was also paid in to the company. 

    However, in the same period, Cross withdrew funds of at least £306,403 from the company which he acknowledged was “to the risk and ultimate detriment of HMRC”. 

    A further £665,419 was paid into the personal account of a connected party. 

    By the time the company went into liquidation, it owed £403,896 in corporation tax, £49,071 in VAT, and £12,436 in PAYE and National Insurance contributions. 

    The company had only paid £41,936 to HMRC between March 2020 and November 2023. 

    Cross’s director’s loan account was also overdrawn by £423,608 when the company went into liquidation with liabilities of £579,805. 

    The Secretary of State for Business and Trade accepted a disqualification undertaking from Cross, and his ban started on Thursday 5 June. 

    It prevents him from being involved in the promotion, formation or management of a company, without the permission of the court. 

    Further information 

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK and ASEAN launch CLARE-ASEAN to boost inclusive urban climate resilience

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    World news story

    UK and ASEAN launch CLARE-ASEAN to boost inclusive urban climate resilience

    The programme will run through 2026, focusing on co-developing solutions with marginalised communities and supporting ASEAN climate policy efforts.

    The UK and ASEAN launched the Supporting Socially Inclusive Climate Adaptation & Resilience in ASEAN (CLARE-ASEAN) initiative on 4 June 2025 in Jakarta. The programme uses new evidence and innovation to promote socially-inclusive urban resilience to climate change in the Southeast Asia region.

    The CLARE-ASEAN is a regional programme under the UK’s flagship Climate Adaptation and Resilience (CLARE) research framework, funded about 90% by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and co-funded by Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC). The initiative will run through 2026 and aims to generate evidence-based, inclusive solutions to climate challenges in Southeast Asian cities.

    The UK Ambassador to ASEAN, Sarah Tiffin, said:

    Climate resilience is a pivotal investment for Southeast Asia’s future. The UK’s support through CLARE-ASEAN aims to help ASEAN Member States tackle climate risks at scale—by strengthening partnerships among researchers, policymakers, and local communities.

    CLARE-ASEAN will focus on co-developing climate solutions with marginalised communities, producing tailored research and policy briefs to support ASEAN decision-making, and contributing to the forthcoming IPCC Special Report on Climate Change and Cities.

    The programme is closely aligned with the ASEAN Working Group on Climate Change (AWGCC) Action Plan and responds to the ASEAN State of Climate Change Report, which identifies urban areas—home to more than half of the region’s population—as a critical sector for adaptation efforts.

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The rector of the State University of Management spoke at a visiting meeting of the State Council of the Russian Federation commission on “Personnel”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    On June 4, 2025, the rector of the State University of Management Vladimir Stroyev took part in a meeting of the commission of the State Council of the Russian Federation on the direction of “Personnel” via videoconference.

    The main topic of the meeting was the discussion of mechanisms for student employment, taking into account the needs of the economy of technologically developed regions.

    The participants were addressed with a welcoming speech by the chairman of the commission, the governor of the Kaluga region, a graduate of the State University of Management Vladislav Shapsha and the chairperson of the Committee of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation on Science, Education and Culture Liliya Gumerova. The discussion was moderated by the expert of the Federal Competence Center in the Sphere of Employment of the Federal State Budgetary Institution “All-Russian Research Institute of Labor” of the Ministry of Labor of Russia Andrey Zhdanov.

    The meeting was attended by the heads of pilot territories, State Duma deputies, senators, as well as representatives of Rostrud and federal agencies.

    Particular attention at the meeting was paid to synchronizing educational programs with labor market demands – this issue was previously discussed at interdepartmental meetings with the participation of relevant ministries.

    The discussion also touched on routing within the framework of the national project “Personnel”, targeted training and targeted admission in the system of secondary and higher vocational education, routing foreign students to domestic enterprises and the adaptation of talented youth in Russia.

    Following the meeting, steps will be identified that will improve the system of career guidance and employment for young people.

    Let us recall that Vladimir Stroyev is a member of the State Council of the Russian Federation Commission on Personnel and regularly takes part in meetings. What was discussed at the meetings in January and February 2025, read in our articles.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: InvestHK promotes using Hong Kong as gateway for global expansion in Liaoning Province to enhance cross-regional collaboration (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         ​Associate Director-General of Investment Promotion at Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) Mr Arnold Lau today (June 5) visited Shenyang, Liaoning Province, to promote Hong Kong’s latest business opportunities to local government authorities, enterprises and media, supporting Liaoning companies in going global via Hong Kong and fostering mutually beneficial co-operation.

         In the morning, Mr Lau toured a well-known multinational information technology enterprise in Liaoning Province to gain deeper insights into its industrial presence and global business scale. He encouraged the company to leverage Hong Kong’s unique advantages to further drive its global expansion.
     
         In the afternoon, Mr Lau attended the seminar entitled “Unparalleled Opportunities to Expand Your Global Business – Liaoning to Hong Kong Investment Promotion Seminar”, which was organised by InvestHK, the Office of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) in Beijing, and the Department of Commerce of Liaoning Province. He delivered opening remarks first, followed by speeches from the Associate Director of the Beijing Office, Ms Eunice Chan, and Deputy Director of the Department of Commerce of Liaoning Province Mr Li Jun. The event was supported by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade Liaoning Sub-Council, the Liaoning Federation of Industry and Commerce, the General Association of Liaoning Entrepreneurs, and the Shenyang Municipal Commerce Bureau.
     
         During Mr Lau’s first official visit to Shenyang, under his current tenure, he showcased Hong Kong’s strengths under the “one country, two systems” framework. He said, “Liaoning and Hong Kong enjoy close economic and trade ties, with Hong Kong being Liaoning’s largest source of foreign investment. As Asia’s leading international financial centre, Hong Kong attracts many Mainland and foreign enterprises to come to Hong Kong for financing activities and to set up corporate treasury centres in the city. Mainland enterprises have shown strong performance among companies listed in Hong Kong. Among them, 20 listed companies are from Liaoning, spanning sectors such as industrial manufacturing, energy, finance, healthcare, food, and education. I encourage more Liaoning enterprises to leverage Hong Kong’s strengths in financial services and actively consider listing in Hong Kong to raise capital. Amid the evolving global economic dynamics, Hong Kong serves as a ‘super connector’ and ‘super value-adder’, sailing together with the Mainland and to explore new overseas markets and opportunities.” He added that InvestHK will continue to leverage Hong Kong’s strengths to attract overseas enterprises, capital and talent to Liaoning, promoting two-way investment.
     
         Ms Chan noted in her remarks, “The Third Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China explicitly outlined Hong Kong’s strategic positioning, supporting its development as a hub for international high-end talent and its enhanced role in the nation’s opening up. The National “Government Work Report” of this year, for the first time, called for Hong Kong to deepen international exchanges and co-operation, reflecting the nation’s high expectations for the city. Hong Kong is building itself into a multinational supply chain management centre, offering one-stop support for Mainland enterprises expanding overseas production and supply chain networks, enabling them to participate more deeply in global industrial division and collaboration amid complex geopolitical landscapes.” She expressed hope that today’s seminar could serve as a platform for Liaoning-Hong Kong collaboration, with the Beijing Office and the Liaoning Liaison Unit of the HKSAR Government committed to fostering all-round co-operation.
     
         Mr Li, representing Liaoning provincial government authorities, pledged to further deepen economic, trade, and investment exchanges between Liaoning and Hong Kong, enabling enterprises in both regions to capitalise on their respective strengths for mutual development.
     
         Deputy Head of Business and Talent Attraction/Investment Promotion of InvestHK in Beijing Ms Angie Kwok delivered a thematic presentation, encouraging Liaoning enterprises to establish multinational supply chain management centres in Hong Kong. The Principal Immigration Officer of the Beijing Office, Mr Jacky Wong, also provided a briefing on Hong Kong’s latest talent schemes.
     
         The event featured a professional services session with the Managing Director of Equities Department at CMB International Securities Limited, Mr Alan Chan, and Offering Services Partner, Audit and Assurance, Capital Market Services Group, Deloitte China, Mr Raymond Ng, who spoke on Hong Kong’s diversified financial services and how Mainland enterprises can leverage the city’s business advantages for global expansion. Three Liaoning-based enterprises were also invited to share their Hong Kong success stories, including the Secretary of the CPC Committee and Vice President of Neusoft Corporation, Mr Hu Wangyang; Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer of Hi-Think Technology International Limited, Mr Yue Xuefeng; and the General Manager of Solargiga Energy Holdings Limited, Mr Zhang Hai. They encouraged Liaoning enterprises to explore Hong Kong’s business environment and new opportunities and implement their “going global” strategy. The event attracted around 160 representatives from Liaoning enterprises, institutions, and media.
     
         For photos of the seminar, please visit www.flickr.com/photos/investhk/albums/72177720326654239.  

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: National Event on the Environment Day 2026 to be jointly organised by Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    National Event on the Environment Day 2026 to be jointly organised by Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao (with photo) 
    In recent years, authorities including MEE and the Central Office of Spiritual Civilization Construction have joined local governments regularly to orgainse the National Event on the Environment Day, which has become an important platform for learning, promoting, and implementing President Xi Jinping’s vision of ecological civilisation, showcasing achievements in promoting the development of a beautiful China across the country, and mobilising people from all walks of life to participate in the promotion of ecological civilisation.
     
    Government representatives of the three places expressed at the event that organising the National Event on the Environment Day is the practical implementation and important window of practicing President Xi’s vision of ecological civilisation, promoting the development of an international first-class beautiful bay area, and showcasing the landscape of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA). Under the guidance of MEE, the three places will learn from the experiences of previous organising cities, engage in effective collaboration with careful planning, and prepare diligently, striving to make the National Event on the Environment Day 2026 excellent and full of character. In addition, the three places will take this opportunity to further deepen communication and co-operation in the ecological and environmental field, jointly build an integrated and innovative beautiful bay area, and provide more concrete ecological support for transforming the GBA into a strategic fulcrum of new development patterns, a demonstration area for high-quality development, and a leading region for Chinese modernisation.
    Issued at HKT 16:36

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by FS at S&P Global Market Intelligence Hong Kong Roadshow (English only) (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is the speech by the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, at the S&P Global Market Intelligence Hong Kong Roadshow today (June 5):
                                                                       
    Louis (Regional head of the S&P Global Market Intelligence, Mr Louis Wong), Chris (Managing Director and Regional Practice Lead of Asia-Pacific of the S&P Global Ratings, Mr Christopher Lee), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

         Good afternoon. 
    A world in flux: risks and reordering

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MOEA Wins 5 Gold, 6 Silver, and 3 Bronze Edison Awards; 50 AI Pilot Lines Launched to Power Industrial Transformation

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    The MOEA held a press conference on June 3 to celebrate Taiwan’s outstanding performance at the 2025 Edison Awards. Competing against over 400 global innovations, Taiwan secured 18 awards-its best record to date-and ranked second worldwide. The Edison Awards, often hailed as the “Oscars of Innovation,” are among the most prestigious accolades in the global innovation community. This year’s Achievement Award was also presented to NVIDIA founder Jensen Huang, underscoring the event’s significance.

    Of Taiwan’s 18 wins, 14 were earned by five MOEA-affiliated R&D institutions: the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI), the Metal Industries Research & Development Centre (MIRDC), the Taiwan Textile Research Institute (TTRI), the Automotive Research & Testing Center (ARTC), and the Ship and Ocean Industries R&D Center (SOIC). This marks a historic high for Taiwan. All winning technologies were co-developed with industry partners such as Photronics Semiconductor Mask Corp., National Taiwan University Hospital, Chung Hsing Bus, Taiwan Water Corporation, and Arc’teryx, demonstrating the successful commercialization of research outcomes.

    Minister of Economic Affairs Jyh-Huei Kuo stated that the Edison Awards are a major global benchmark for technological innovation, and Taiwan’s stellar performance this year is a testament to the effectiveness of government-backed R&D. Among the winners, ITRI ranked second globally in number of awards, the Metal Industries R&D Centre ranked fifth, and the Taiwan Textile Research Institute earned a Gold Award. Notably, the ARTC and SOIC R&D centers received their first-ever awards this year.

    Minister Kuo emphasized the importance of aligning innovation with market demand and practical application. All 14 awarded technologies were developed in collaboration with businesses and directly addressed industry pain points, enhancing production efficiency, and creating added value. Many of these innovations integrated AI, reflecting the MOEA’s initiative to drive digital transformation across sectors. To further accelerate AI adoption, MOEA has identified 10 major R&D institutions and launched over 50 AI pilot production lines across 16 industries, equipped with cutting-edge tools and aimed at cultivating applied AI talent. These efforts are intended to help enterprises shorten the lab-to-market cycle and strengthen Taiwan’s industrial competitiveness.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Strategic merger: Agelec joins the Videlio group

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    The growing challenges of supervision, decision-making efficiency, and security for institutions and businesses have led Videlio, a major player in audiovisual and IT integration, to take a step forward in the development of a new strategic activity: control systems. This turning point is now taking place through a major merger with Agelec, the French leader in supervision and control solutions for sensitive infrastructure. 

    This marks a defining moment for the Videlio group, confirming its ambition to offer a wider range of solutions that are among the most innovative on the market. The Group’s goal is to stay as close as possible to its customers’ operational needs and uses by offering them solutions that are easy to use, secure, and effective.

    Industrial synergy between two leading players

    AGELEC stands out today as the specialist in supervision, control, and visualization solutions dedicated to critical environments, meeting the constant demand for availability and security of sensitive infrastructure. Its control or supervision rooms, security stations, crisis rooms, and command or surveillance centers demonstrate Agelec’s recognized experience in meeting these very high standards. This expertise has attracted leading clients.

    Videlio and Agelec will work together to strengthen this expertise by combining their operational and commercial resources to give new scope to this activity within the Group. Their ambition is to develop a model capable of combining the best technologies in open architectures that guarantee both security and interoperability.  

    This project will focus in particular on the development of advanced collaborative incident management solutions, agile and robust architectures with AVoIP, and intelligent video walls. Videlio and Agelec will also work together on today’s major challenges, with innovative offerings in AI, cybersecurity, augmented reality, and more.

    Xavier Renaud, President of Videlio:

    “Agelec is a leader in control rooms, particularly through its mastery of the technological and operational complexities of this type of installation. We are very pleased with this merger, which strengthens Videlio’s position as the French leader in specialized high value-added audiovisual integration, while expanding our scope of activity in a market in which we strongly believe. We enthusiastically welcome the Agelec teams and their leader Guillaume Guérin, who has built a solid, innovative company that is virtually indispensable in its ecosystem.”

    Guillaume Guérin, President of Agelec:

    “The energy and human values that drive Videlio were decisive factors in our choice. We share the same vision of audiovisual integration, which brings high standards and value creation for the end customer. Our common conviction is to place usability, ergonomics, and business intelligence above technology. Joining Videlio is obviously an opportunity to take a step forward, but above all, it is an opportunity to amplify our innovation momentum in intelligent and open systems, to better support our customers as they face the constant evolution of their critical challenges.”

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: LyondellBasell enters into an agreement and exclusive negotiations with AEQUITA for the sale of four European Strategic Assessment assets

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ROTTERDAM, The Netherlands, June 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LyondellBasell (LYB) today announced that it has entered into an agreement and exclusive negotiations with AEQUITA for the sale of select olefins & polyolefins assets and the associated business in Europe. The sites to be sold have been part of the previously announced European strategic assessment and are located in Berre (France), Münchsmünster (Germany), Carrington (UK), and Tarragona (Spain).

    “This contemplated transaction is a significant step in LYB’s transformation to Grow and Upgrade our Core. We are committed to operate our assets safely and reliably throughout this process and will continue to support our customers, employees and other key stakeholders,” said Peter Vanacker, LyondellBasell chief executive officer. “Europe remains a core market for LYB and one we will continue to participate in following this transaction with more of a focus on value creation through establishing profitable leadership in circular and renewable solutions.”

    The assets and business to be acquired by AEQUITA include integrated and non-integrated sites within LYB’s European olefins and polyolefins business, as well as supporting central functions based at the Company’s Rotterdam headquarters and various locations. The sites together represent a scaled olefins and polyolefins platform strategically located in proximity to a longstanding customer base and with access and connectivity to key infrastructure.

    “The acquisition of these assets from LYB marks another important step in expanding our industrial footprint,” said Christoph Himmel, Managing Partner at AEQUITA. “Each site brings a strong operational foundation and a highly experienced, committed employee base. We are confident in our ability to accelerate their development under AEQUITA’s ownership approach. We look forward to welcoming the teams into our Group and to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition and establish a strong platform for long-term success.”

    The agreement entered into between LyondellBasell and AEQUITA is a put option deed under which AEQUITA has committed to enter into an agreed form purchase agreement if LyondellBasell exercises its put option, after conclusion of certain works council consultation processes.

    Closing of the proposed transaction is currently expected in the first half of 2026, subject to the completion of the information and consultation processes with the relevant employee representative bodies in accordance with applicable laws, as well as regulatory and other customary closing conditions. Citi and J.P. Morgan Securities LLC acted as financial advisors and Linklaters LLP acted as legal counsel to LyondellBasell.

    Investor conference call

    LYB will host a conference call June 5 at 8 a.m. EDT. Participants on the call will include Chief Executive Officer Peter Vanacker, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Agustin Izquierdo, Executive Vice President of Global Olefins and Polyolefins Kim Foley and Head of Investor Relations Dave Kinney. For event access, the toll-free dial-in number is 1-877-407-8029, international dial-in number is 201-689-8029 or click the CallMe link. The slides and webcast that accompany the call will be available at investors.lyondellbasell.com/events-and-presentations/. A replay of the call will be available from 1 p.m. EDT June 5 until July 5, 2025. The replay toll-free dial-in numbers are 1-877-660-6853 and 201-612-7415. The access ID for each is 13754240.

    About LyondellBasell
    We are LyondellBasell (NYSE: LYB) ― a leader in the global chemical industry creating solutions for everyday sustainable living. Through advanced technology and focused investments, we are enabling a circular and low carbon economy. Across all we do, we aim to unlock value for our customers, investors, and society. As one of the world’s largest producers of polymers and a leader in polyolefin technologies, we develop, manufacture and market high-quality and innovative products for applications ranging from sustainable transportation and food safety to clean water and quality healthcare. For more information, please visit www.lyondellbasell.com or follow @LyondellBasell on LinkedIn.

    About AEQUITA
    AEQUITA is a Munich-based industrial group investing in special situations, including corporate carve-outs, successions, and transformational situations across Europe. Its current portfolio generates more than EUR 3.5 billion in revenues. With a strong capital base, entrepreneurial expertise, and a partnership approach, AEQUITA focuses on the acquisition and long-term value enhancement of companies that can benefit from its operational engagement. For more information, please visit www.aequita.com.

    Media Inquiries LYB Global
    LyondellBasell Media Relations
    Phone: +1-713-309-7575
    Email: mediarelations@lyondellbasell.com

    Or:

    Media Inquiries LYB Europe
    Robert Kleissen, External Affairs Europe
    Phone: +31-6-273-573-98
    Email: robert.kleissen@lyondellbasell.com

    Media Inquiries AEQUITA
    Simon Schulz, Partner
    Phone: +49-89-2620-4840-0
    Email: contact@aequita.com

    Forward-Looking Statements LYB
    The statements in this release relating to matters that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. Actual results could differ materially based on factors including, but not limited to, our ability to align our asset base with our strategic goals; our ability to successfully complete the transactions contemplated by the put option and related agreements; completion of information and consultation processes of the relevant employee representative bodies; and the satisfaction of regulatory and other customary closing conditions. Additional factors that could cause results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements can be found in the “Risk Factors” section of our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, which can be found at www.LyondellBasell.com on the Investor Relations page and on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s website at www.sec.gov. There is no assurance that any of the actions, events or results of the forward-looking statements will occur, or if any of them do, what impact they will have on our results of operations or financial condition. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they were made and are based on the estimates and opinions of management of LyondellBasell at the time the statements are made. LyondellBasell does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements should circumstances or management’s estimates or opinions change, except as required by law.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Iran-aligned BladedFeline spies on Iraqi and Kurdish officials, ESET Research discovers

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • ESET researchers have revealed that Iran-aligned threat group BladedFeline targeted Kurdish and Iraqi government officials with array of malicious tools discovered within their systems.
    • ESET discovered and analyzed two reverse tunnels (Laret and Pinar), a backdoor (Whisper), a malicious IIS module (PrimeCache), and various supplementary tools.
    • With high-confidence ESET Researchers assess that BladedFeline is a subgroup within Iran-aligned OilRig, as the initial implants used there can be traced back to OilRig group.
    • BladedFeline already compromised Kurdish diplomatic officials with the group’s Shahmaran signature backdoor in 2023.

    MONTREAL and BRATISLAVA, Slovakia, June 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Iran-aligned threat group BladedFeline has targeted Kurdish and Iraqi government officials in a recent cyber-espionage campaign, according to ESET researchers. The group deployed a range of malicious tools discovered within the compromised systems, indicating a continued effort to maintain and expand access to high-ranking officials and government organizations in Iraq and the Kurdish region. The latest campaign highlights BladedFeline’s evolving capabilities, featuring two tunneling tools (Laret and Pinar), various supplementary tools, and, most notably, a custom backdoor Whisper and a malicious Internet Information Services (IIS) module PrimeCache, both identified and named by ESET.

    Whisper logs into a compromised webmail account on a Microsoft Exchange server and uses it to communicate with the attackers via email attachments. PrimeCache also serves as a backdoor: it is a malicious IIS module. PrimeCache also bears similarities to the RDAT backdoor used by OilRig Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) group.

    Based on these code similarities, as well as on further evidence presented in this blogpost, ESET assesses that BladedFeline is a very likely subgroup of OilRig, an Iran-aligned APT group going after governments and businesses in the Middle East. The initial implants in the latest campaign can be traced back to OilRig. These tools reflect the group’s strategic focus on persistence and stealth within targeted networks.

    BladedFeline has worked consistently to maintain illicit access to Kurdish diplomatic officials, while simultaneously exploiting a regional telecommunications provider in Uzbekistan, and developing and maintaining access to officials in the government of Iraq.

    ESET Research assesses that BladedFeline is targeting the Kurdish and Iraqi governments for cyberespionage purposes, with an eye toward maintaining strategic access to the computers of high-ranking officials in both governmental entities. The Kurdish diplomatic relationship with Western nations, coupled with the oil reserves in the Kurdistan region, makes it an enticing target for Iran-aligned threat actors to spy on and potentially manipulate. In Iraq, these threat actors are most probably trying to counter the influence of Western governments following the US invasion and occupation of the country.

    In 2023, ESET Research discovered that BladedFeline targeted Kurdish diplomatic officials with the Shahmaran backdoor, and previously reported on its activities in ESET APT Activity reports. The group has been active since at least 2017, when it compromised officials within the Kurdistan Regional Government, but is not the only subgroup of OilRig that ESET Research is monitoring. ESET has been tracking Lyceum, also known as HEXANE or Storm-0133, as another OilRig subgroup. Lyceum focuses on targeting various Israeli organizations, including governmental and local governmental entities and organizations in healthcare.

    ESET expects that BladedFeline will persist with implant development in order to maintain and expand access within its compromised victim set for cyberespionage.

    For a more detailed analysis and technical breakdown of BladedFeline’s tools used in Operation RoundPress, check out the latest ESET Research blogpost “Whispering in the dark” on WeLiveSecurity.com. Make sure to follow ESET Research on Twitter (today known as X), BlueSky, and Mastodon for the latest news from ESET Research.

    About ESET
    ESET® provides cutting-edge digital security to prevent attacks before they happen. By combining the power of AI and human expertise, ESET stays ahead of emerging global cyberthreats, both known and unknown— securing businesses, critical infrastructure, and individuals. Whether it’s endpoint, cloud, or mobile protection, our AI-native, cloud-first solutions and services remain highly effective and easy to use. ESET technology includes robust detection and response, ultra-secure encryption, and multifactor authentication. With 24/7 real-time defense and strong local support, we keep users safe and businesses running without interruption. The ever-evolving digital landscape demands a progressive approach to security: ESET is committed to world-class research and powerful threat intelligence, backed by R&D centers and a strong global partner network. For more information, visit www.eset.com or follow our social media, podcasts and blogs.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Cold front expected to bring adverse weather 

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Thursday, June 5, 2025

    A well-developed cold front is expected to make landfall this weekend, bringing adverse weather to most of the western parts of the country, says the South African Weather Service (SAWS).

    The weather service has advised the public and small stock farmers to prepare for cold to very cold, wet, and windy conditions, including snowfall, very rough seas, and strong winds. 

    The cold front will make landfall early on Saturday morning while progressing eastward over the course of the weekend.

    “The highest 24-hour rainfall amounts are expected on Saturday, with 10 to 20 mm likely over the western parts of the Western Cape and 30 to 40 mm over the mountainous regions. 

    “Elsewhere, light rain and showers are possible. Light snowfall is also likely over the Western Cape mountains and the southern high-lying areas of the Northern Cape,” the SAWS said on Wednesday.

    The weather conditions will result in difficult driving conditions and flooded roads, short disruption to essential services as well as difficulty in navigation at sea due to very rough and choppy seas. –SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Condolences for Rashid Lombard

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    President Cyril Ramaphosa has sent his condolences following the passing of photographer and jazz promoter, Rashid Lombard.

    “We have lost a cultural icon who not only documented our history of struggle but made history in his own right.

    “Rashid Lombard’s fearless depiction of apartheid’s endemic inhumanity and violence and his compassionate focus on the lives of oppressed communities and disadvantaged individuals is a powerful record of our struggle for basic human rights and dignity,” the President said in a statement on Wednesday.

    The renowned photographer, cultural activist and jazz organiser passed away at the age of 74.

    Lombard was an esteemed member of the National Order of Ikhamanga (Silver), which he received in 2014 for his excellent contribution to arts and culture and his dedication to promoting jazz music that has put South Africa on the map for many jazz enthusiasts around the world.

    “His creative and entrepreneurial ability gave rise to his establishment of the Cape Town Jazz Festival through which he bolstered South Africa’s integration into global culture and linked this prestige event to the development of historically disadvantaged communities.

    “Rashid achieved a remarkable feat with his love for the diversity and vibrancy of our nation.
    “He did so with passion and humility that endeared him to everyone with whom he interacted and whose lives he touched. We reflect on his life with gratitude and with liberation and joy he leaves behind as his legacy,” said the President.

    Expressing sadness at his passing, President Ramaphosa offered his condolences to the Lombard family and his extensive network of friends, comrades and creatives nationally and internationally.

    Lombard had been the organiser behind the positioning of South Africa through the arts in the North Sea Jazz Festival, Cape Town, now known as the Cape Town International Jazz Festival, and was the Festival Director of the Cape Town International Jazz Festival.

    He was born in North End, Gqeberha, and moved to Cape Town in 1962.

    Originally qualified as an architectural draughtsman, Lombard became an industrial photographer and later a renowned news and documentary photographer, and photographic artist.

    He built on his creative media career by becoming an influential jazz promoter and founder of the then Cape Town edition of the North Sea Jazz Festival. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Deputy President to launch the Clean Cities and Towns campaign

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Thursday, June 5, 2025

    Deputy President Paul Mashatile will launch a nationwide initiative aimed at creating cleaner, greener, and more inclusive urban spaces.

    “The Clean Cities and Towns campaign is envisaged to start a nationwide movement, encouraging citizens to come together for community cleaning activities throughout townships and villages.

    “This unified effort will not only promote cleaner surroundings but also cultivate a sense of community spirit and pride,” the Presidency said in a statement on Thursday.

    Friday’s launch will take place at the Walter Sisulu Square of Dedication in Kliptown, Soweto.

    The movement also seeks to promote sustainability, equality, and solidarity among all citizens.

    The Deputy President’s Office announced that this initiative will enhance the commitments made by the Deputy President at the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) Lekgotla earlier this year, which aim to tackle both environmental and socio-economic challenges. 

    In addition, this initiative will be part of a larger service delivery effort by the government, aligned with the District Development Model (DDM), of which the Deputy President is a champion.

    Deputy President Mashatile, along with Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, City of Johannesburg Executive Mayor Dada Morero, and senior government officials, will participate in clean-up activities. 

    The events will include tree planting and cleaning at the Walter Sisulu Square of Dedication. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Minister McKenzie pays tribute to Rashid Lombard

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie has described the late Rashid Lombard as a storyteller who was unafraid to document South African history.

    The acclaimed photographer, cultural activist, and jazz promoter passed away peacefully on Wednesday at the age of 74, surrounded by his loved ones.

    “Rashid Lombard was more than a photographer. He was a storyteller and freedom fighter who used his camera as a weapon for justice. He captured truth when others looked away, showing the world our pain, pride, struggle, and strength. Rashid gave us history and memories that speak louder than words. Today, we honour a true artist who told our story with heart, honesty, and deep respect. South Africa has lost a giant,” the Minister said in his tribute to Lombard.

    This as he joined President Cyril Ramaphosa in conveying his condolences. President Ramaphosa said the country had lost a cultural icon who not only documented the history of the struggle for freedom but made history in his own right.

    Rashid who will be laid to rest according to Muslim rites on Thursday morning, was born on 10 April 1951 in North End, Gqeberha. 

    He relocated with his family to Cape Town in 1962. He initially trained as an architectural draftsman and later pursued a career in industrial photography, beginning his professional path at the construction firm Murray & Roberts.

    “As a young boy in the Eastern Cape, he lived in a community where people of all races coexisted. Black, White, Coloured, Indian and Chinese families shared neighbourhoods, exchanged stories and formed bonds that apartheid later sought to destroy. It was a glimpse of what a united South Africa could be.

    “The arrival of apartheid brought violence and forced removals. Families were relocated based solely on the colour of their skin, and many of Lombard’s childhood friends disappeared, never to be seen again. 

    “This trauma deeply affected him and heightened his awareness of injustice. These early experiences, along with the Black Consciousness Movement, inspired his lifelong commitment to justice and equality,” the Ministry of Sport, Arts and Culture said.
    He chose to fight not with weapons but with his camera. During South Africa’s struggle for liberation, he worked as a freelance photographer and television sound recordist. 

    His lens witnessed history, capturing the pain, courage and hope of a people longing for freedom.

    He documented key moments such as the growing democracy movement in the 1980s, Nelson Mandela’s release in 1990, and the first democratic election in 1994. His images reached global audiences through major outlets like Agence France-Presse, the BBC and NBC, offering the world a powerful view of South Africa’s journey.

    “As democracy took hold, Lombard turned his energy to jazz, another lifelong passion. He held leadership roles at Fine Music Radio and P4 Smooth Jazz Radio before founding espAfrika in 1997. Through this company, he launched the Cape Town International Jazz Festival in 2000, directing it until 2014.

    “The festival grew into one of Africa’s largest and most respected cultural events, showcasing local talent alongside international stars and putting Cape Town firmly on the global jazz map.

    “Even after retiring, he remained committed to preserving South Africa’s cultural heritage. He undertook the important task of digitising his extensive photographic archive, a project begun by his late wife, Colleen. Working with the National Archives and the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, he ensured the collection would be accessible as a national treasure. His family continues this vital work today,” the Ministry said.

    In 2010, he published “Jazz Rocks”, a photographic tribute curated by the late George Hallett. The book captures the spirit, energy and connection of jazz through Rashid’s distinctive lens.

    In 2014, Lombard was honoured with the National Order of Ikhamanga in Silver. This prestigious award recognised his exceptional impact on the arts, cultural preservation and the global celebration of South African jazz. –SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Video: MINISTER RAMOKGOPA ANNOUNCES PREFERRED BIDDERS FOR THE 3RD BID WINDOW OF THE BATTERY ENERGY STORAGE

    Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements-2)

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fDsbnJ-ZLIc

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Deputy Minister Kenny Morolong delivers keynote address at North West outreach and community media e

    Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements-2)

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V1iyQymatsg

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s employment market posts steady development amid policy support

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

    BEIJING, June 5 — China has seen moderate and steady development momentum in the job market this year thanks to combined efforts including a series of pro-employment policies, an official said.

    A systematic employment support plan has been advanced, focusing on expanding opportunities in strategic sectors, key industries, urban-rural grassroots communities, and small enterprises, said Chen Yongjia, an official with the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security, on the latest episode of China Economic Roundtable, an all-media talk show hosted by Xinhua News Agency.

    A comprehensive policy package has been implemented. Measures include raising loan quotas for job stabilization programs, broadening eligibility for job expansion subsidies, and extending policies such as skills enhancement allowances to maximize policy effectiveness, he said.

    Regarding demand-driven skills training, large-scale vocational training programs have been launched to elevate workers’ technical competencies, he noted.

    China has worked to provide targeted assistance for key groups. A new round of 17 youth-focused employment policies has been issued, offering tailored support for graduates and young job seekers to safeguard their employment prospects, Chen added.

    China will roll out additional pro-employment measures in a timely manner to further underpin economic growth and social stability, he said.

    Official data shows that the number of college graduates in China is likely to reach 12.22 million in 2025, an increase of 430,000 from last year.

    China’s job market has remained generally stable recently, with the surveyed urban unemployment rate on average down from 5.2 percent in March to 5.1 percent in April, according to the National Bureau of Statistics.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Regenerated Beijing courtyards blend culture, modernity

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

    Editor’s note: A cultural and ecological renewal project at Daji Xiang in Beijing’s Xuanwu cultural core area has brought new life to the city’s historic courtyard neighborhoods. Home to cultural landmarks such as the Former Residence of Kang Youwei and the former offices of the Weekly Review, Daji Xiang now features restored courtyards, interactive exhibitions, low-carbon gardens and revitalized public spaces. Through meticulous restoration and creative programming, the site showcases a new model of urban regeneration that harmonizes heritage preservation with contemporary living.

    Sculptures symbolizing the fusion of cultural heritage and modern creativity stand in the courtyard of a restored siheyuan courtyard house at Daji Xiang in Beijing, June 4, 2025. [Photo by Liu Caiyi/China.org.cn]

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s total installed renewable energy capacity up 58%

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

    China’s total installed renewable energy capacity reached 2.02 billion kilowatts by the end of April, up 58% year on year. The combined installed capacity of wind and solar power hit 1.53 billion kilowatts, surpassing that of thermal power, according to official data released Thursday.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s EV battery recycling boom fuels green transition, taps global market

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

    In the northern Chinese industrial city of Tianjin, a bustling workshop is bringing discarded electric vehicle batteries back to life through the combined expertise of skilled technicians and automated systems.

    The scene exemplifies a massive business opportunity unfolding across China, as the world’s largest electric vehicle market is set to turn battery waste from a pollution challenge into a key asset in its green revolution.

    Positioned at the forefront of the country’s sustainable economy, this startup, Tianjin Battery Technology, is targeting this rapidly expanding sector.

    The market segment is on the cusp of substantial growth, as China continues to lead the world in the production and sales of new energy vehicles. Additionally, the rising number of end-of-life power batteries is expanding demand for sustainable solutions.

    By the end of 2024, China had 31.4 million new energy vehicles, representing about 9 percent of its automobile fleet. Following the government’s launch of trade-in policies, consumer interest in upgrading vehicles surged, which in turn further expanded the recycling market.

    China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology mandated that passenger vehicle manufacturers provide an 8-year or 120,000-kilometer warranty on core components such as batteries starting from 2016.

    Market forecasts indicate that China’s retired power batteries will hit 1.04 million tonnes in 2025 and may surge to 3.5 million tonnes by 2030.

    Unlocking potentials 

    Ma Youwei, a 40-year-old equipment manager at the Tianjin firm, oversees the disassembly of battery packs and modules. As far as he is concerned, these seemingly “retired” batteries are treasure troves.

    In his factory, some disassembled components are reused for second-hand vehicle repairs. Crushing batteries produces copper and aluminum, and the black powder is further refined into battery-grade lithium carbonate.

    “In our words, we work to fully extract the value from the retired batteries and leave no potential untapped,” said Ma, production material control manager of the factory’s engineering equipment department.

    With nearly 20 years of experience in digital electronics and battery manufacturing, he joined this role three years ago, driven by the industry’s considerable potential.

    Tianjin Battery Technology has reached an annual processing capacity of 10,000 tonnes, achieving a lithium recovery rate of over 90 percent.

    “China heavily relies on imports for lithium, cobalt and nickel,” said Ke Yanchun from China Resources Recycling Group Co., Ltd., a newly-established state-owned enterprise.

    “Recycling retired power batteries effectively reduces the high dependency on imported resources in the upstream of China’s new energy vehicle industry,” said Ke.

    Tech-driven 

    China’s battery recycling sector is plagued by the presence of small, unregulated workshops. Industry leaders are leveraging technological innovation to boost efficiency and restructure the industry chain.

    GEM, a Shenzhen-based publicly-listed company and a major Chinese battery recycler, employs a flexible intelligent dismantling system for accurate detection and sorting. Its recycling innovations include high- and low-temperature catalytic activation and ultra-precise lithium extraction, achieving over 90 percent lithium recovery.

    The company also built a digital lifecycle management system to track batteries from recycling to utilization, supporting its dual-track business model.

    It has established a circular economy industrial park in the Shenshan Special Cooperation Zone, which is just one kilometer from the production lines of BYD, the country’s leading electric vehicle manufacturer.

    Now, GEM has set up over 140 recycling sites nationwide and partnered with more than 750 vehicle and battery manufacturers and operators worldwide. In the first quarter of this year, it recycled 10,800 tonnes of power batteries, up 37 percent year on year.

    In the Tianjin company, Ma and his colleagues have improved battery dismantling efficiency by 75 percent through modified tools. By using techniques like cutting and welding, they have transformed standard tools to meet the complex requirements of battery disassembly.

    “This simple innovation has made a significant impact,” Ma noted.

    Overseas expansion 

    As China’s share of the global electric vehicle market continues to grow, battery recycling companies are also expanding their international presence to meet local environmental regulations.

    CATL, the world’s largest battery manufacturer, plans to establish battery recycling operations in Europe, with the completion of its Hungarian re-manufacturing plant slated for 2026. This initiative is part of its efforts to address environmental concerns in battery production and disposal.

    GEM has established seven power battery recycling centers including those in the Republic of Korea and Indonesia.

    Gotion High-tech in Hefei, east China’s Anhui Province, and Envision Greenwise in Hong Kong have reached a strategic cooperation agreement, planning to jointly build 100 recycling and after-sales service centers globally.

    Also, Huayou Recycling in Jiaxing, Zhejiang Province, has entered a strategic partnership with SUEZ Group, one of the largest European environmental services corporations, to explore the French battery recycling market.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Gallery, white-stone porch and fragments of painting: new elements have been added to the protected area of the hospital building with the church of the Ivanovsky Monastery ensemble

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The specialists updated the subject of protection of the hospital building with the Church of St. Elizabeth of the Ivanovsky Monastery ensemble (now the St. John the Baptist Stavropegic Convent). The historical building in Maly Ivanovsky Lane (house 2a, building 1) has the status of a cultural heritage site of federal significance.

    “The two-story hospital building was built of brick in the same style as other monastery buildings almost 200 years ago. It is very important to preserve its original appearance, facade design and architectural decor. Experts updated the subject of protection, including such valuable elements as porch stairs in front of the entrances, platforms and steps of stairs made of natural stone, coffered ceilings, choirs on the second floor, stucco, adhesive ornamental paintings in the interior of the temple and other elements that form the historical appearance of the architectural masterpiece. All details included in the subject of protection are subject to mandatory preservation during any work on the restoration of the monument,” said the head of the capital’s Department of Cultural Heritage.

    Alexey Emelyanov.

    The experts carried out a great deal of scientific research to study the building’s facades and interiors. Based on the data they obtained, they supplemented the subject of protection by including an extensive list of previously unaccounted valuable architectural details.

    The subject of protection also includes the white-stone profiled plinth with vents, the portal with a cornice and a shrine of the southern entrance, arched window niches, window sill panels, false round windows, the historical inter-floor staircase and its decorative design, molded Corinthian column capitals, plaster cornices and other elements of the architectural and artistic decoration of the interior.

    History of the Ivanovo Monastery

    The project for the monastery complex was developed in 1859 by the academician of the Russian Academy of Arts, architect Mikhail Bykovsky. The hospital building was erected in 1860–1861. The ceremonial laying of the foundation stone for the Church of St. Elizabeth next to it took place at the same time.

    The unique architectural ensemble of the monastery is built in the complex style of the Italian Renaissance, medieval monasteries of Western Europe, Russian classicism and Orthodox monastery architecture. Since its foundation in the 15th century, its walls have seen many events. As a result, the Ivanovsky Monastery practically ceased to exist.

    The revival of the monastery began in the mid-19th century thanks to the famous Moscow merchant family Mazurin. Elizaveta Makarova-Zubacheva, née Mazurina, and her daughter-in-law Maria Mazurina, who continued her work, donated money for the restoration.

    The revival plan envisaged not only the resumption of monastic life, but also the provision of medical services and charity. All work in the monastery was completed by 1877, and it was preparing to accept its first inhabitants. But these plans were not destined to come true: during the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-1878, a place was needed to temporarily house the wounded. The choice fell on the still uninhabited Ivanovsky Monastery. All wounded and sick officers arriving in Moscow were sent there.

    The ceremonial consecration of the monastery took place only in 1879. There were many who wanted to enter it. In 1917, there were 44 nuns in the monastery, and more than 200 novices and residents on probation.

    After the October Revolution of 1917, the Ivanovsky Monastery was one of the first in Moscow to be closed. For many years, its premises were occupied by institutions of the USSR Ministry of Internal Affairs. The monastery cathedral housed the repository of the Central State Archive of the Moscow Region. Both clergy houses were occupied by a sewing workshop, and the hospital building with the Church of St. Elizabeth and the Chapel of John the Baptist housed the district services of Mosenergo.

    Bust of Alighieri, submarine, historical lanterns: in which Moscow parks can you find interesting monumentsMosaic floors and openwork balconies: what other valuable details are included in the subject of protection of the “Grandfather Durov’s Corner”

    In 1992, the territory and buildings of the former Ivanovsky Monastery were returned to the Russian Orthodox Church. This marked the beginning of a new period in the history of the monastery. On September 11, 2002, on the monastery’s patronal feast day, the first bishop’s service was held, and on November 9, 2002, a cross was installed on the dome of the John the Baptist Monastery.

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: The Soloma festival will be held at the Moskino cinema park this weekend

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The Soloma festival will celebrate its 10th anniversary in the Moskino cinema park from June 7 to 8. For lovers of live music and youth creativity, a musical festival will be held with performances by modern popular artists, bands and classical performers. In addition, master classes, film screenings and performances will be held on the weekend.

    Non-stop music

    The concert program is planned for both weekends from 14:00 to 22:00, and the cinema park will open at 11:00.

    On Saturday, June 7, students of the Moscow State Conservatory named after P.I. Tchaikovsky will perform on the central square. They will perform compositions from the films “Pirates of the Caribbean”, “The Elusive Avengers”, “The Diamond Arm”, “Scent of a Woman” and others.

    On the same day, you will be able to appreciate the work of composer and actor Anton Lavrentiev, young performers Sasha de Buryak, Flora and Minaeva, the group Ubel and participants of the multi-genre musical project “Tima is looking for the light”.

    On Sunday, June 8, guests will hear songs by Alena Samartseva, the groups Dreams Shadow, Shoo and “Elli na makovom pole”. The musical program will be completed by the singer-songwriter Tosya Chaikina.

    Creative meeting and performance

    On June 7, from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM, the Gonzaga Theatre will host a creative evening with the artist and teacher Vsevolod Kuznetsov. He will talk about the intricacies of the acting profession and about working on the projects Men in Black, The Devil’s Advocate and The Matrix, and will also read famous dialogues from the films.

    On Sunday at 16:00 and 18:00, the Gonzaga Theatre will show the author’s play “Congratulations, you’re having a boy.” The audience will see a family comedy about the fulfillment of a cherished dream and the struggle of each person with life’s circumstances. It features actors Dmitry Khodyrev and Anna Azarova.

    Games and film screenings

    On June 7 and 8, guests will be able to play giant Jenga, sea battle, ping-pong, and also learn petanque, a French sport, in the central square. During master classes, visitors will be offered to create a movie poster with cartoon characters, a movie award, or make a drawing in the form of a photo frame.

    Over the course of two days, moviegoers will be watching new films: the first full-length spin-off of John Wick, the action film Ballerina starring Ana de Armas, the comedy The Yeti about the friendship between a little boy and a fairy-tale creature, the fantasy Nightingale vs. Muromets, and the drama The Pretenders about a couple in love trying to understand the circumstances of the death of a famous director.

    In addition, visitors will be treated to lessons from professional makeup artists and an inflatable trampoline for children. And a food court with a variety of takeaway snacks will open in the central square.

    Details can be found here on the website cinema park “Moskino”. Entry to the event – with an entrance ticket to the cinema park.

    The festival “Soloma” is held with the support of the capital Department of Culture as part of the project “Summer in Moscow”. The event contributes to the implementation of the goals and objectives of the national project “Family”.

    Sergei Sobyanin’s project “Summer in Moscow”— the main event of the season. It brings together the most vibrant events of the capital. Every day, charity, cultural and sports events are held in all districts of the city, most of which are free. The Summer in Moscow project is being held for the second time, and the new season will be more eventful: new, original and colorful festivals and events will be added to the traditional ones.

    The Moskino cinema park is part of Sergei Sobyanin’s “Moscow – City of Cinema” project and an object of the Moscow cinema cluster, which is being developed by the capital Department of Culture. The first stage of creation has already been completed here: 24 natural sites, four pavilions and six infrastructure facilities have been built, including the sets “Center of Moscow”, “Moscow of the 1940s”, “Vitebsk Station”, “Cathedral Square of Moscow”, “County Town”, “Cowboy Town”, “St. Petersburg Bar” and others. On weekends and holidays, they host staged filming, concerts, music and film festivals, performances, meetings with filmmakers and professional master classes.

    The Cinema Park is actively developing as a cultural and leisure venue. Exhibitions, master classes, lectures, meetings with famous actors and other events for Muscovites and guests of the capital are held here.

    The Moscow Film Cluster is an infrastructure facility, services and facilities for filmmakers, which are being developed by the Moscow Government within the framework of the Moscow — City of Cinema project. Its structure includes the Moskino Film Park, the Gorky Film Studio (sites on Sergei Eisenstein Street and Valdaisky Proyezd), the Moskino Film Factory, the Moskino Cinema Network, the Film Commission and the Moskino Film Platform.

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Residents of TiNAO were reminded of opportunities for leisure and additional education for children

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Currently, there are 18 children’s art schools, six cultural centers and 10 libraries of the capital in the Troitsky and Novomoskovsky administrative districts. Department of CultureYoung residents can master folk instruments and programming, try their hand at aerial gymnastics and blogging, create cartoons or perform on a professional stage.

    From aerial gymnastics to programming

    At the Desna Culture House, children can learn the basics of playing the gusli, domra, and balalaika, as well as learn more about folk music, hone their theatrical skills, work on diction, articulation, and breathing. In addition, children of all ages can play chess, checkers, and ping-pong.

    Sports section lovers are welcome at the Vatutinki cultural center: taekwondo teaches the art of self-defense without weapons, the rhythmic gymnastics studio develops plasticity and coordination, and also teaches the basics of choreography and aerial gymnastics. Schoolchildren can also learn aircraft modeling or forest orientation together with the local history quest club. The institution regularly hosts creative master classes for children of different ages.

    The Klenovo Community Center is suitable for the most creative kids: here they study pottery and carpentry, and also create their own musical groups under the guidance of teachers. There is an opportunity to learn the basics of blogging – try your hand at writing text blogs and learn how to correctly formulate ideas, attract the attention of subscribers and competently convey information. In Library No. 259, children can master mental arithmetic, costume design, gain knowledge of the history of writing and literature.

    For those interested in linguistics, the Mikhailovskoye Community Center offers classes in Chinese and English from scratch. The institution offers the opportunity to learn theater and choreography, as well as various arts and crafts techniques. You can study English in Library No. 260 (for children aged seven to 12) and the art studio section (for children aged four to 12).

    And in the Peresvet House of Culture, young guests can become actors of a real musical theater, try themselves in the role of an animator, create a unique cartoon, master programming skills and safe work on the Internet, and also learn to play a six-string guitar under the guidance of an experienced teacher. You can learn visual programming and graphic design, learn more about the Python programming language in Library No. 262.

    The Yubileiny Community Center gives everyone the opportunity to learn and try out lace-making techniques, develop their vocal skills, and master the basics of theater and choreography.

    Quality education close to home

    The Kyiv Children’s Music School has everything necessary for an effective educational process. Classrooms are fully equipped with musical instruments, special equipment, furniture, and the staff maintains a high level of training of students and education of musically gifted children. At school, children can receive additional education in the field of musical art. Today, they teach how to play the piano, violin, button accordion and accordion, guitar, flute, clarinet and saxophone. In addition, you can try yourself in one of the creative groups: the boys’ vocal ensemble “Kaleidoscope”, the ensemble “Raduga” and the vocal ensemble “Vesnushki”. The groups regularly take part in concerts at the district and city level.

    You can learn to sing, dance and draw at the Children’s School of Arts in the city of Moskovsky. For 50 years, the institution has carefully preserved and developed traditions in the field of musical and aesthetic education for children. The school has three departments: art, choreography and music. Creative groups and soloists annually win competitions and festivals of various levels. In 2024, a student of the academic vocal class became a first-degree laureate of the Moscow Mayor’s grants in the field of culture and art.

    The Voskresenskaya Children’s Art School operates in TiNAO. It has departments of choral singing, piano, academic vocals, guitar, violin and an art department, and also holds classes in choreographic creativity and early aesthetic development for children aged six. Students can join the Melnitsa choreographic ensemble, the Radost vocal ensemble, the guitar ensemble, the Elegy senior choir, the Nastroenie junior choir and the Andante concert choir. The groups regularly take part in performances at the district and city level, as well as in all-Russian and international events.

    In the children’s art school “Children of the Blue Bird”, training for children aged six to 17 is conducted in three areas of creative activity: fine, theatrical and choreographic arts. The institution employs the choreographic group “Eroshki”, the folk dance ensemble “Rus” and the vocal ensemble “Rosinochka”. The school’s students regularly become winners of prestigious city, all-Russian and international creative competitions.

    In the Shchapovskaya Children’s School of Arts “Harmony” you can learn to play the piano, string, folk and wind instruments, master academic vocals, pop and jazz singing and painting. Students regularly become laureates and diploma winners of competitions and festivals of various levels.

    There are four departments in the Mikhailovo-Yartsevskaya Children’s Art School: music (piano, button accordion, accordion, violin, saxophone, clarinet, recorder, guitar and balalaika), choreography, folklore and art. The choreographic ensemble “Svetelitsa”, the folk song ensemble “Larchik” and the art group “Risovashki” have repeatedly become laureates of city, regional and international competitions. There is a department of early aesthetic development (drawing, singing and dancing), as well as an off-budget department for children and adults.

    The Troitsk Children’s School of Arts named after M.I. Glinka implements programs for teaching piano, folk, string, wind and percussion instruments, as well as choral singing, choreography, painting and theoretical disciplines. The orchestra of Russian folk instruments, the classical dance ensemble “Grand Pa”, the ballroom dance group, the senior choir Prima Vera, the middle choir “Ocean of smiles”, the vocal and choral ensemble “Aquamarine”, the senior chamber ensemble “Prima”, the boys’ choir, the string instruments ensemble and the jazz orchestra have been created and successfully perform at competitions, concerts and festivals here. The high level of training of students and the professionalism of teachers are confirmed from year to year by successful performances at district, regional and all-Russian festivals and competitions.

    Young artists study at the Troitsk Children’s Art School. Academic drawing, painting, composition and sculpture are taught here. Students can also try their hand at such exciting areas as engraving, computer graphics and animation. The history of Russian art and world art culture is mandatory. The institution holds competitions, olympiads, master classes, and organizes educational excursions to museums and exhibition halls. Every year, graduates of the school enter art colleges and universities, becoming artists, architects and designers.

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Bulgarian authorities arrest 18 for smuggling migrants across its southern border

    Source: Europol

    On 3 June, law enforcement carried out raids in five major cities across Bulgaria under the supervision of the Burgas Prosecutor’s Office. Officers from Greece, Romania and Moldova joined Bulgarian investigators on the ground, with Europol also deployed to support the action. In total, 18 people were arrested, including a high-value target.The criminal network used a variety of vehicles to…

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Toobit Launches Zero-Fee Trading for All USDC Spot Pairs

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    GEORGE TOWN, Cayman Islands, June 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Toobit, an award-winning global digital asset trading exchange, is launching a limited-time Zero-Fee Trading for all USDC spot trading pairs, beginning June 5, 2025, at 8:00 (UTC). During this event, all users can enjoy 0% maker and taker fees, helping them maximize profitability by eliminating transaction costs.

    This exclusive promotion applies to all currently available USDC spot pairs on the Toobit platform, including BTC/USDC, ETH/USDC, SOL/USDC, DOGE/USDC, TRX/USDC, and TON/USDC. The initiative is part of Toobit’s ongoing efforts to make digital asset trading more accessible, cost-efficient, and user-friendly.

    “We’re continuously looking for ways to improve our users’ trading experience and provide them with a rewarding trading environment,” said Mike Williams, Chief Communication Officer at Toobit. “This zero-fee event is designed to give traders greater flexibility while optimizing their returns.”

    In spot trading, maker and taker fees are the standard costs users pay to execute trades on an exchange. A maker adds liquidity to the market by placing a limit order that isn’t immediately filled, while a taker removes liquidity by matching with an existing order. Most exchanges charge separate fees for each, but during this event on Toobit, both types of trades will incur zero fees.

    Removing these fees means a greater portion of each trade goes directly to the user, supporting more efficient strategies, especially for high-frequency traders and those trading at volume.

    Toobit invites traders of all experience levels to take advantage of this opportunity to maximize their returns with zero transaction costs on one of the most stable cryptoasset exchanges in the market.

    For more information, visit www.toobit.com.

    About Toobit

    Toobit is where the future of crypto trading unfolds—an award-winning cryptocurrency derivatives exchange built for those who thrive exploring new frontiers. With deep liquidity and cutting-edge technology, Toobit empowers traders worldwide to navigate the digital asset markets with confidence. We offer a fair, secure, seamless, and transparent trading experience, ensuring every trade is an opportunity to discover what’s next.

    For more information about Toobit, visit: Website | X | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Instagram

    Contact: Davin C.

    Email: market@toobit.com

    Website: www.toobit.com

    Disclaimer: This is a paid post and is provided by Toobit. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2bb0a47e-db2b-4e63-8177-2ad7330dbb35

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  • MIL-OSI Video: European Union extends temporary protection for Ukrainians

    Source: European Commission (video statements)

    The European Commission has proposed extending temporary protection for Ukrainians in the EU until March 4, 2027. Announced on June 4, 2025, this proposal aims to provide legal certainty and maintain consistent protection standards across EU Member States for those fleeing Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.

    Beyond extending protection, the Commission suggests measures to facilitate integration into host countries and support voluntary return to Ukraine. Initiatives include information hubs, exploratory visits, and coordinated transition programs. A Special Envoy will be appointed to ensure close collaboration with Member States and Ukrainian authorities.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QI3mAxd4APU

    MIL OSI Video –