NewzIntel.com

Category: KB

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Orleans Man Sentenced for Federal Gun Crimes

    Source: US FBI

    NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that CARDELL GLOVER, (“GLOVER”), age 24, was sentenced on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, by United States District Judge Darrel J. Papillion, after previously pleading guilty to a three-count indictment.  Count One charged GLOVER with being a felon in possession a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).  Count Two charged GLOVER with possession of a stolen firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(j) and (a)(2).  Count Three charged GLOVER with possession of a machine gun, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(o) and 924(a)(2).

    GLOVER was sentenced to 96 months imprisonment as to each of the three counts of the indictment, to be served concurrently.  Judge Papillion also ordered that GLOVER be placed on supervised release for three years as to each of the three counts, to be served concurrently, and pay a $300 mandatory special assessment fee.

    According to court documents, on July 9, 2024, a rideshare driver reported to the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office (JPSO) that her weapon had been stolen.  She also works as a security guard and had placed her work firearm, a Glock Model 19 Gen 5, nine-millimeter pistol, in her trunk earlier that afternoon prior to starting her rideshare work.  She reported to law enforcement that she had picked up a fare, a male and a female passenger, at the Dollar General and allowed them to place their groceries in the trunk of her car.  When they arrived at the passengers’ destination, an apartment complex in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana, the passengers retrieved the groceries from the trunk and went to an unknown second floor apartment.  The rideshare driver then looked in the trunk of her vehicle to discover her firearm missing.  She had said that the first name of the passenger who ordered the ride was “Dell.”

    GLOVER pled guilty to the entire indictment and admitted that he stole the Glock pistol.  GLOVER also admitted that, at the time of its recovery, the Glock pistol, was equipped with machinegun conversion device, making it a machinegun as defined by the National Firearms Act (26 U.S.C. § 5845(b)).

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Dawkins of the Violent Crime Unit.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: At a Glance – Product safety and regulatory compliance in e commerce and non-EU imports – 01-07-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    The problems posed by the increasingly high numbers of online purchases made by EU consumers, particularly from third-country traders, have risen to the top of the political agenda. During the July part-session, Parliament will vote on the report adopted by the Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection (IMCO) on product safety and regulatory compliance in e-commerce and non-EU imports.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Marrero Woman Guilty of Cares Act Fraud

    Source: US FBI

    NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, LINDA TRIGGS (“TRIGGS”), age 73, a resident of Marrero, pleaded guilty to making a false statement related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1001(a)(2).

    On March 27, 2020, the President of the United States signed into law the CARES Act, which provided emergency assistance, administered by the United States Small Business Administration (SBA), to small business owners affected by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.  One of the  primary sources of funding for small businesses was the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).

    According to the charging documents, on or about April 18, 2021, TRIGGS, on behalf of a non-profit corporation that she owned, made false statements to an approved lender to obtain approximately $59,065 for PPP loans.

    TRIGGS faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five (5) years, a fine of up to $250,000, a period of supervised release of up to three years, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.  United States District Judge Brandon S. Long will sentence TRIGGS on September 30, 2025.

    For more information on the Department of Justice’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.  Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Brittany Reed of the Violent Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: At a Glance – Measures against countries that do not cooperate on shared fish stocks – 01-07-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    During the July plenary session, the European Parliament is expected to vote on an agreement with the Council aimed at addressing third countries’ unsustainable practices in relation to shared fish stocks. The agreed text resulting from interinstitutional negotiations would amend existing EU legislation in order to make the rules for penalising non-cooperative third countries clearer and more transparent. The aim is to ensure the sustainability of shared fish stocks and to protect EU fishers from unfair competition.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Convenience Store Robber Sentenced to 57 Months’ Imprisonment

    Source: US FBI

    SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Andrew Armani Deionte Rowe, 29, of Salt Lake City, was sentenced today to 57 months’ imprisonment, and a term of three years’ supervised release after he robbed multiple 7-Eleven stores across the Salt Lake Valley in 2023.  

    The sentence, imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Jill N. Parish, comes after Rowe pleaded guilty in September 2024 to four counts of interference with commerce by robbery.

    According to court documents and statements made at Rowe’s change of plea and sentencing hearings, Rowe admitted that from September 12, 2023, through September 27, 2023, he robbed multiple 7-Eleven stores and threatened the clerk at each location. First, on Sept. 12, 2023, Rowe entered a 7-Eleven in Salt Lake City and locked the doors behind him. Rowe handed the clerk a note that stated, “Do as I say, or you will lose your life.” The clerk complied and gave Rowe the money from the register. On the same day, in a separate robbery, Rowe entered a 7-Eleven in Millcreek, Utah, with a gun and ordered the clerk to give him all the cash in the register. On Sept. 14, 2023, Rowe entered a 7-Eleven in Salt Lake City. Rowe pointed a gun at the clerk and demanded all the cash from the register. On Sept. 27, 2023, Rowe entered a 7-Eleven in Millcreek, threatened the clerk and demanded money from the register. See former press release here.

    On October 11, 2023, Rowe was arrested. During the investigation, law enforcement seized clothing that matched the clothing worn by Rowe during the robberies. Law enforcement also seized a black firearm with an extended firearm that matched the description of the firearm used in the robberies. It was later determined the firearm was a BB gun designed to look like a Glock.

    “No individual should feel unsafe while at work,” said Acting U.S Attorney Felice John Viti for the District of Utah. “Mr. Rowe threatened and intimidated others for his personal gain and then repeated his criminal behavior three more times. Community safety is a priority for the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners and we will continue to prosecute and seek justice against those who harm our communities.”  

    “It’s fortunate Mr. Rowe didn’t physically hurt or kill anyone during his crime spree, although the emotional toll on the victims will be long-lasting,” said Special Agent in Charge Mehtab Syed with the Salt Lake City FBI. “Opportunistic crimes don’t pay. The FBI and our partners are committed to keeping our communities safe from violent offenders.”

    The case was investigated jointly by the Salt Lake City Police Department, Unified Police Department of Greater Salt Lake and the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah prosecuted the case.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and other violent crime, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.  For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: At a Glance – EU fisheries agreement with Greenland: Conclusion of a new protocol (2025-2030) – 01-07-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    During the July plenary session, Parliament is due to vote on giving its consent to the conclusion of a new protocol implementing the EU fisheries agreement with Greenland. This agreement is valuable for EU fisheries relations in the north-east Atlantic. Not only does it allow EU vessels to continue fishing in Greenlandic waters, it enables the EU to exchange a significant part of the quotas it receives from Greenland with Norway.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: San Juan County Man Indicted for Second-Degree Murder

    Source: US FBI

    SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – A federal grand jury returned an indictment today charging a San Juan County man with second degree murder after he allegedly shot a man to death in San Juan County, Utah.

    Chevel Cottonwood, 34, of San Juan County, was charged by complaint on June 11, 2025, and ordered detained by a U.S. Magistrate Judge.  

    According to court documents, on June 10, 2025, Navajo Police Department Officers responded to a 911 call reporting gunfire near the Hovenweep area north of Aneth, Utah, within the Navajo Nation. Upon arrival at a residence, officers spoke with a woman who was allegedly at the residence at the time of the shooting and described hearing gunshots from the living room. She recalled hearing Cottonwood and the victim arguing and then heard another gunshot and saw the flash of the discharge. The woman then went to the living room and saw the victim laying on the floor bleeding from an apparent gunshot wound.

    As alleged in court documents, responding officers entered the residence and found the victim deceased with a gunshot wound and an empty shell casing next to him. Cottonwood was found hiding in nearby bushes with a loaded magazine and ammunition. A search warrant was executed, and officers seized a 9mm pistol and two 9mm shell casings. Agents also observed bullet holes through the roof of the house that appeared to have occurred at some point during the incident.

    Cottonwood is charged with second degree murder while within Indian Country and being a restricted person in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Cottonwood will have his initial appearance on the indictment on June 26, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. in courtroom 7.4 before a U.S. Magistrate Judge at the Orrin G. Hatch United States District Courthouse in downtown Salt Lake City.

    Acting United States Attorney Felice John Viti for the District of Utah made the announcement.

    The case is being investigated jointly by the Navajo Nation Department of Criminal Investigations and the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office’s Monticello Resident Agency.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Sam Pead and Tanner Zumwalt of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah are prosecuting the case.

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

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: At a Glance – 2023 and 2024 Commission reports on Bosnia and Herzegovina – 01-07-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Bosnia and Herzegovina, with a population of 3.2 million, became independent from the former Yugoslavia on 3 March 1992, following a referendum that was boycotted by ethnic Serbs. The country was offered an EU membership perspective at the EU–Western Balkans summit in Thessaloniki in 2003. Building on the European Commission’s recommendation of 12 March 2024, the European Council decided on 21 March to open accession negotiations with Bosnia and Herzegovina. The European Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs (AFET) adopted its report on the European Commission’s 2023 and 2024 reports on Bosnia and Herzegovina on 4 June 2025. A debate and vote on the report are due to be held in plenary in July.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: At a Glance – Cohesion policy for the equality of the regions and sustainability of regional cultures (ECI) – 01-07-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    A European Citizens’ Initiative (ECI) provides EU citizens with an opportunity to get involved in EU policymaking and put issues that matter to them onto the European agenda. The ECI: ‘Cohesion policy for the equality of the regions and sustainability of the regional cultures’ was submitted to the European Commission on 4 March 2025 after obtaining 1 269 351 validated statements of support from EU citizens and having reached the necessary thresholds in eight countries. It is the 11th initiative to be examined by the Commission.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: Houston American Energy Acquires Abundia Global Impact Group, Creating a Publicly Traded Innovator in Low-Carbon Fuels

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, TX, July 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Houston American Energy Corp. (NYSE American: HUSA) (“HUSA” or the “Company”) has completed its acquisition of Abundia Global Impact Group, LLC (“AGIG”), creating a leading company focused on converting waste plastics into high-value, drop-in low-carbon fuels and chemical products.

    The combined company will be led by Abundia’s founder, Ed Gillespie, who will serve as Chief Executive Officer and will join the Board of Directors. This strategic acquisition leverages HUSA’s public market platform to accelerate Abundia’s growth, scale its technology and execute on its plan to develop large-scale recycling projects, beginning with a new facility planned for the U.S. Gulf Coast.

    “The completion of this acquisition represents a pivotal transformation for HUSA,” said Peter Longo, Chairman of the combined company. “Abundia has a commercially ready solution for converting waste into valuable fuels and chemicals, with a backlog of development opportunities utilizing proprietary technologies and key industry partnerships. This transaction gives HUSA shareholders a ready-made platform and project pipeline for future value generation as the fuel and chemical industries accelerate their adoption of low-carbon solutions and sustainable aviation fuel.”

    CEO of the combined company Ed Gillespie commented, “This is a landmark moment for Abundia and a major step forward for the renewable industry. Joining forces with HUSA and entering the public capital markets positions us to accelerate growth, scale our technology and expand our influence within the renewable and recycling industries. I am proud of the hard work and determination of both the AGIG and HUSA teams to finalize this transaction. We look forward to delivering shareholder value and critical technologies to reduce carbon emissions.”

    Key Highlights of the Combined Company

    • Targeting a Multi-Billion Dollar Market: Directly serves the growing global demand for renewable fuels, Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), and recycled chemical feedstocks
    • Proprietary, Commercially Ready Technology: Utilizes a proven pyrolysis process to convert waste plastics into valuable, drop-in fuels and chemicals
    • Project Development: Near-term plans to develop a large-scale project in the U.S. Gulf Coast, which is a strategic location with access to waste feedstock and downstream customers, a large workforce and multiple transportation options

    Key Highlights of the Transaction

    • Proven Executive Leadership: The combined company will be led by:
      • Ed Gillespie, Chief Executive Officer and Board Member
      • Peter Longo, Chairman of the Board
      • Lucie Harwood, Chief Financial Officer
      • Joseph Gasik, Chief Operating Officer
    • Structure: Abundia Global Impact Group, a Delaware Limited Liability Company, will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of HUSA through an exchange of outstanding membership interests of AGIG for newly authorized shares of HUSA common stock.

    About Houston American Energy Corp.

    Houston American Energy Corp. is a renewable energy company focused on converting waste materials into valuable low-carbon fuels and chemicals. Through its proprietary pyrolysis technology, the company addresses the global plastic waste crisis while supplying high-demand products like sustainable aviation fuel and recycled feedstocks to the energy and chemical industries.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information: 

    This news release contains “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” (collectively, “forward-looking information”) within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking information generally is accompanied by words such as “believe,” “may,” “will,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “expect,” “should,” “would,” “plan,” “predict,” “potential,” “seem,” “seek,” “future,” “outlook” and similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters. Forward-looking information is based on management’s current expectations and beliefs and is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, statements about the future growth of the Company in the renewable energy industry and plans for new project development and facilities, the Company’s expectations with respect to the completed acquisition of AGIG (the “Acquisition”), including statements regarding the benefits of the Acquisition, the implied valuation of the Company, the products offered by the Company and the markets in which it operates, and the Company’s projected future results and market opportunities, as well as information with respect to the Company’s future operating results and business strategy. Actual results may differ materially from those indicated by these forward-looking statements as a result of a variety of factors, including, but not limited to: (i) risks and uncertainties impacting the Company’s business including, risks related to its current liquidity position and the need to obtain additional financing to support ongoing operations, the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern, the Company’s ability to maintain the listing of its common stock on NYSE American, the Company’s ability to predict its rate of growth, the Company’s ability to hire, retain and motivate employees, the effects of competition on the Company’s business, including price competition, technological, regulatory and legal developments, developments in the economy and financial markets, risks related to the Company’s ability to realize some or all of the anticipated benefits from the Acquisition, and (iii) other risks as set forth from time to time in the Company’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

    Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to serve as a guarantee, an assurance, a prediction or a definitive statement of fact or probability. Actual events and circumstances are beyond the control of the Company.

    With respect to the forward-looking information contained in this news release, the Company has made numerous assumptions. While the Company considers these assumptions to be reasonable, these assumptions are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, market and social uncertainties and contingencies. Additionally, there are known and unknown risk factors which could cause the Company’s actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information contained herein. A complete discussion of the risks and uncertainties facing the Company’s business is disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and other filings with the SEC on www.sec.gov.

    All forward-looking information herein is qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement, and the Company disclaims any obligation to revise or update any such forward-looking information or to publicly announce the result of any revisions to any of the forward-looking information contained herein to reflect future results, events or developments, except as required by law.

    For additional information, view the company’s website at www.houstonamerican.com or contact Houston American Energy Corp. at (713) 222-6966.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Houston American Energy Acquires Abundia Global Impact Group, Creating a Publicly Traded Innovator in Low-Carbon Fuels

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, TX, July 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Houston American Energy Corp. (NYSE American: HUSA) (“HUSA” or the “Company”) has completed its acquisition of Abundia Global Impact Group, LLC (“AGIG”), creating a leading company focused on converting waste plastics into high-value, drop-in low-carbon fuels and chemical products.

    The combined company will be led by Abundia’s founder, Ed Gillespie, who will serve as Chief Executive Officer and will join the Board of Directors. This strategic acquisition leverages HUSA’s public market platform to accelerate Abundia’s growth, scale its technology and execute on its plan to develop large-scale recycling projects, beginning with a new facility planned for the U.S. Gulf Coast.

    “The completion of this acquisition represents a pivotal transformation for HUSA,” said Peter Longo, Chairman of the combined company. “Abundia has a commercially ready solution for converting waste into valuable fuels and chemicals, with a backlog of development opportunities utilizing proprietary technologies and key industry partnerships. This transaction gives HUSA shareholders a ready-made platform and project pipeline for future value generation as the fuel and chemical industries accelerate their adoption of low-carbon solutions and sustainable aviation fuel.”

    CEO of the combined company Ed Gillespie commented, “This is a landmark moment for Abundia and a major step forward for the renewable industry. Joining forces with HUSA and entering the public capital markets positions us to accelerate growth, scale our technology and expand our influence within the renewable and recycling industries. I am proud of the hard work and determination of both the AGIG and HUSA teams to finalize this transaction. We look forward to delivering shareholder value and critical technologies to reduce carbon emissions.”

    Key Highlights of the Combined Company

    • Targeting a Multi-Billion Dollar Market: Directly serves the growing global demand for renewable fuels, Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), and recycled chemical feedstocks
    • Proprietary, Commercially Ready Technology: Utilizes a proven pyrolysis process to convert waste plastics into valuable, drop-in fuels and chemicals
    • Project Development: Near-term plans to develop a large-scale project in the U.S. Gulf Coast, which is a strategic location with access to waste feedstock and downstream customers, a large workforce and multiple transportation options

    Key Highlights of the Transaction

    • Proven Executive Leadership: The combined company will be led by:
      • Ed Gillespie, Chief Executive Officer and Board Member
      • Peter Longo, Chairman of the Board
      • Lucie Harwood, Chief Financial Officer
      • Joseph Gasik, Chief Operating Officer
    • Structure: Abundia Global Impact Group, a Delaware Limited Liability Company, will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of HUSA through an exchange of outstanding membership interests of AGIG for newly authorized shares of HUSA common stock.

    About Houston American Energy Corp.

    Houston American Energy Corp. is a renewable energy company focused on converting waste materials into valuable low-carbon fuels and chemicals. Through its proprietary pyrolysis technology, the company addresses the global plastic waste crisis while supplying high-demand products like sustainable aviation fuel and recycled feedstocks to the energy and chemical industries.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information: 

    This news release contains “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” (collectively, “forward-looking information”) within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking information generally is accompanied by words such as “believe,” “may,” “will,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “expect,” “should,” “would,” “plan,” “predict,” “potential,” “seem,” “seek,” “future,” “outlook” and similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters. Forward-looking information is based on management’s current expectations and beliefs and is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, statements about the future growth of the Company in the renewable energy industry and plans for new project development and facilities, the Company’s expectations with respect to the completed acquisition of AGIG (the “Acquisition”), including statements regarding the benefits of the Acquisition, the implied valuation of the Company, the products offered by the Company and the markets in which it operates, and the Company’s projected future results and market opportunities, as well as information with respect to the Company’s future operating results and business strategy. Actual results may differ materially from those indicated by these forward-looking statements as a result of a variety of factors, including, but not limited to: (i) risks and uncertainties impacting the Company’s business including, risks related to its current liquidity position and the need to obtain additional financing to support ongoing operations, the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern, the Company’s ability to maintain the listing of its common stock on NYSE American, the Company’s ability to predict its rate of growth, the Company’s ability to hire, retain and motivate employees, the effects of competition on the Company’s business, including price competition, technological, regulatory and legal developments, developments in the economy and financial markets, risks related to the Company’s ability to realize some or all of the anticipated benefits from the Acquisition, and (iii) other risks as set forth from time to time in the Company’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

    Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to serve as a guarantee, an assurance, a prediction or a definitive statement of fact or probability. Actual events and circumstances are beyond the control of the Company.

    With respect to the forward-looking information contained in this news release, the Company has made numerous assumptions. While the Company considers these assumptions to be reasonable, these assumptions are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, market and social uncertainties and contingencies. Additionally, there are known and unknown risk factors which could cause the Company’s actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information contained herein. A complete discussion of the risks and uncertainties facing the Company’s business is disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and other filings with the SEC on www.sec.gov.

    All forward-looking information herein is qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement, and the Company disclaims any obligation to revise or update any such forward-looking information or to publicly announce the result of any revisions to any of the forward-looking information contained herein to reflect future results, events or developments, except as required by law.

    For additional information, view the company’s website at www.houstonamerican.com or contact Houston American Energy Corp. at (713) 222-6966.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Global Gold Investments Offers Smart Strategies for Investing in Gold in 2025 To Enhance Your Family’s Financial Future

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Beverly Hills, CA, July 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As families across the U.S. look for reliable ways to protect their financial future in 2025, expert guidance in gold investment has never been more critical. Global Gold Investments, a trusted leader in precious metals, is stepping forward with strategic solutions designed to help everyday Americans build a more secure financial legacy. From starting a Gold IRA to purchasing physical gold, the company provides customized options to help families navigate uncertain economic times with confidence.

    Safeguarding the value of wealth is more important than ever. At Global Gold Investments, the mission is simple yet powerful: to help clients protect and grow their family’s financial future. Recognizing that retirement savings represent a lifetime of dedication, the team takes a personalized approach—crafting strategies that not only meet but aim to exceed each client’s unique expectations.

    They understand that one of the smartest financial moves for 2025 is diversifying the investment portfolio. Gold and silver have long been valued for their ability to retain purchasing power and weather economic volatility. Incorporating gold and silver into the portfolio, either through direct purchase or a precious metals IRA, can help protect savings from inflation and market instability.

    Global Gold Investments makes it easy to begin this process. Whether the clients are new to gold or already have an IRA, their experts provide free portfolio analyses and help roll over high-risk retirement accounts into stable gold IRAs. Their commitment to educating clients and offering honest, tailored advice has earned them a reputation for excellence since 2006.

    For those interested in purchasing physical gold, the company offers expert insights into market trends and helps clients identify the best opportunities based on scarcity, demand, and long-term value. Every transaction is supported by 100% free shipping and insurance, and customers enjoy personalized consultations to guide their investment journey.

    “At Global Gold Investments, we understand how important your financial future is—not just for you, but for your family,” says a company representative. “That’s why we take the time to get to know every client and offer solutions that are built around their individual goals. Whether you’re rolling over a retirement account or buying your first gold coin, we’re here to make the process easy, transparent, and rewarding.”

    With a long-standing commitment to top-tier customer service, Global Gold Investments stands out for its one-on-one attention, professional integrity, and track record of client satisfaction. They’ve helped thousands of individuals secure their retirement through smart gold investments—and they’re ready to help many more in 2025.

    Those looking to financially secure their future can use their contact details below.

    About Global Gold Investments:

    Global Gold Investments, based in the United States, has been providing expert gold and silver investment solutions since 2006. Specializing in Gold IRAs, physical gold purchases, and diversified portfolio strategies, the company is known for exceptional service, experienced guidance, and a strong commitment to helping families secure their financial futures.

    Contact Details:

    Contact Person: Jimmy West

    Website: https://iragoldproof.com/

    Email: info@iragoldproof.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Houston American Energy Corp. Appoints Matthew T. Henninger to Board of Directors

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, TX, July 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In a move to strengthen its leadership following a strategic share exchange with Abundia Global Impact Group (AGIG), Houston American Energy Corp. (NYSE American: HUSA) (“HUSA” or the “Company”) today announced the appointment of Matthew T. Henninger to its Board of Directors, effective immediately. Mr. Henninger will serve on the Audit Committee and Compensation Committees.

    “We are pleased to welcome Matthew to the Company’s Board of Directors,” said Chairman Peter Longo. “Matthew’s global business expertise and extensive background in finance and strategic planning make him well-suited to help guide the Company’s growth and value creation strategies. We look forward to his contributions to the Board.”

    Mr. Henninger is a New York-based executive with over 35 years of investment banking, operational management and business advisory experience. He is currently a Managing Partner at BRM Holdings, a private family office and serves as the CEO of Exotropin, a BRM Holdings portfolio company. Previously, Mr. Henninger was the CEO of Cedi Global and was the President of Red Lion Partners. He has operated, advised and served on boards of directors in a range of industries including consumer products, medical chemicals, industrial manufacturing, and short-line rail transportation and others.

    “I am honored to join the Board at such a pivotal moment,” said Mr. Henninger. “The company’s new direction, powered by Abundia’s vision for converting waste into valuable resources, presents a compelling opportunity to create significant economic value while addressing a critical global challenge. I look forward to working with the team to drive this transformative strategy going forward.”

    Concurrent with the appointment and the closing of the share exchange on [July 1], 2025, Stephen P. Hartzell has resigned from the Board of Directors. The Company extends its gratitude to him for his service. Following these changes, the Board remains composed of five directors, including three independent members.

    About Houston American Energy Corp.

    Houston American Energy Corp. (NYSE American: HUSA) is a renewable energy company focused on converting waste materials into valuable low-carbon fuels and chemicals. Through its proprietary pyrolysis technology, the company addresses the global plastic waste crisis while supplying high-demand products like sustainable aviation fuel and recycled feedstocks to the energy and chemical industries.

    For additional information, view the company’s website at www.houstonamerican.com or contact Houston American Energy Corp. at (713) 222-6966.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Baldwin Votes Against Republicans’ Catastrophic Budget Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) released the following statement after she voted against the Republicans’ budget bill:
    “Today, I voted against rigging our tax code in favor of the biggest corporations and ultra-wealthy – all on the backs of working families who are just trying to get by and want a fair shot at success. As I travel across Wisconsin, I hear from families who are worried about paying for groceries, covering the cost of their medications, and keeping the lights on. Instead of standing up for these working families, my Republican colleagues jammed through a bill that guts Medicaid, kicks 17 million Americans off their health insurance, shutters rural hospitals, and takes food from families in need. And why? All to rig our already unfair tax code even more to help the rich get richer. This bill does not solve the problems that Wisconsin families are facing – in fact, it makes them worse. I am disappointed. I am disgusted. But, I am also fired up and ready. Ready to keep fighting alongside every Wisconsinite who believes we can do better to give hard-working families a fair shot and stop tilting the scales for the wealthy and well-connected. It’s not the people in Washington with power; it’s the people across this country. The people who keep speaking up and speaking out, who are emailing and calling, who are marching in the streets, and who are telling their stories. This fight isn’t over, and together, we can still beat this thing.”
    Senator Baldwin introduced the following amendments to the bill to block cuts to Medicaid that would rip away health care from Americans and also close a tax loophole that allows Wall Street investment managers to often pay almost half the tax rate compared to most other Wisconsin workers:
    Preventing seniors from having their health care ripped away, including those in nursing homes;
    Preventing children from having their health care ripped away, including those on the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP);
    Preventing health care for those battling addiction and substance use disorder from being ripped away;
    Preventing cuts to funding for rural Americans, including essential funding for hospitals;
    Preventing pregnant women from having their health care ripped away; and
    Closing the carried interest loophole that benefits wealthy money managers on Wall Street, something that President Trump also supports.
    The Republicans’ bill, which passed the Senate by a vote of [51-50], will terminate health care for 17 million Americans, including 250,000 Wisconsinites. In Wisconsin, Medicaid provides care for more than 1.2 million people, including four in seven nursing home residents, one in three children, and one in three adults with disabilities. While over 12 million rural Americans rely on Medicaid for health care, severe cuts to Medicaid will also jeopardize rural hospitals and clinics’ ability to keep their doors open.
    The legislation also makes the largest cut to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in history. Approximately 700,000 Wisconsin residents rely on SNAP for food assistance.
    Over the past several months, Senator Baldwin has been speaking out against the harmful impact this bill will have on Wisconsinites – in the press, on the Senate floor, and in Wisconsin communities.
    Senator Baldwin hosted roundtables in La Crosse, Milwaukee, Wausau, Eau Claire, Green Bay, Racine, Waukesha, Superior, Beloit, and twice in Madison, convening Wisconsinites whose health care coverage is in jeopardy under the Republicans’ plan to slash Medicaid to pay for corporate tax breaks.
    VIDEO: Senator Baldwin spoke on the Senate floor, condemning the Republicans’ budget bill.
    VIDEO: Senator Baldwin held a virtual press conference with impacted Wisconsinites ahead of Senate Republicans bringing up their bill for a vote. 
    VIDEO: Senator Baldwin highlighted Congressional Republicans’ efforts to barrel ahead with a bill that defunds Planned Parenthood on the Senate floor.
    Senator Baldwin slammed republicans’ planned cuts to Medicaid, which will devastate our country’s fight against the opioid and fentanyl epidemic and jeopardize treatment for thousands of Wisconsinites. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warnock Statement on Passage of GOP Tax Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia
    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) released the following statement after Senate Republicans passed their “Big Ugly Bill” by a vote of 51-50, with Vice President J.D. Vance casting the tie-breaking vote. The legislation will kick over 16 million Americans off their health care, including 750,000 Georgians, raise premiums for 1.2 million Georgians, and threaten 66 rural Georgia hospitals.
    “The Senate just voted for legislation that will kick millions off their health care, close rural hospitals, and increase health care costs for everyone, all to give billionaires a tax break. Today’s vote is a disappointing reminder that Washington politicians aren’t working for ordinary people.”
    “But the power of the people is more powerful than the people in power. As the pastor of Dr. King’s church, I understand that our fight is not about any one vote, but about a moral vision for a world where all of God’s children can succeed.”
    “This is not over. Talk to your neighbors, call your U.S. House Representative, and continue to show up and use your voice.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Johnson Releases Statement on Passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Ron Johnson
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) released the following statement on his vote to pass Cal. #107, H.R.1, One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
    “With President Biden in the White House and majorities in both chambers of Congress, Democrats had every opportunity to repeal the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and increase taxes on ‘the rich.’ They did not do so. Instead of returning to a reasonable pre-pandemic level of spending and deficits, once the economy recovered, they incurred deficits averaging $1.9 trillion over four years. If that wasn’t bad enough, President Biden also left office with open borders and raging wars.  
    “By passing the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, we have avoided a $4 trillion automatic tax increase and a default on our debt. Due to the enormous messes Biden and congressional Democrats left us, we are also providing additional funding for border security and defense.   
    “While the bill is a step forward, we have only just begun the difficult task of reducing spending, and there is still a long way to go. A rigorous effort will soon be announced to review every program and every line of the federal budget, looking for ways to reduce spending to a reasonable pre-pandemic level. I look forward to being fully involved in that effort to put America on a path to fiscal sustainability.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper Votes Against Republicans’ Budget Bill That Strips Health Care from Americans, Closes Rural Hospitals, Explodes National Deficit

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Hickenlooper – Colorado
    Republicans’ legislation will increase prices for Coloradans, strip health care from 17 million Americans, increase the deficit, and give tax cuts to the ultra-wealthy
    Republicans blocked Hickenlooper-backed amendments to protect funding for Medicaid and clean energy
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper released the following statement after he voted against Republicans’ Senate budget bill:
    “This is pure lunacy, and downright cruel.
    “Republicans have voted to kick 17 million Americans off their health care, push hundreds of rural hospitals toward closure, wipe out millions of American clean energy careers, and add trillions to our national debt. And for what? For lavish tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans.”
    Hickenlooper voted NO on the budget resolution after Republicans voted down critical Democratic-led amendments to prevent cuts to Medicaid, SNAP, and Inflation Reduction Act clean energy funding. While Hickenlooper was successful in working with his colleagues to eliminate devastating public lands provisions and alter a few of the worst clean energy proposals, he joined a bipartisan group of senators in opposition to the final bill. The reconciliation bill now heads to the House for final passage. Hickenlooper will continue fighting against it and urge every member of the House to stop it from becoming law.
    HICKENLOOPER AMENDMENT:
    Hickenlooper spoke on the Senate floor in support of his amendment to protect the Inflation Reduction Act’s residential clean energy credit – which covers 30% of the cost of purchasing and installing residential solar, battery backup, or geothermal heat pumps. Hickenlooper’s amendment would protect the program from Republican cuts for one year, giving clean energy small businesses in Colorado and across the nation a runway (at bare minimum) to weather the storm the Republicans are causing and prepare for the loss of federal funding, in addition to  preserving more than 85,000 American jobs. Watch his full remarks about his amendment HERE.
    “They’re also taxing clean energy and cutting larger energy credits, which will create more expensive energy and more blackouts,” Hickenlooper said. “We should create jobs, cut costs, and boost energy production, not sacrifice working families so that the richest Americans pay less taxes.”
    Click to download full video
    WHAT’S IN THE BILL:
    The Republican-led Senate reconciliation bill includes a $3 trillion tax cut for the wealthiest Americans. It pays for those tax cuts by:
    Taking Health Care Away from 17 Million Americans
    The Republican budget proposal calls for extreme Medicaid cuts of more than $900 billion, which would take away people’s health benefits; make it harder for them to see their health care providers; and prevent seniors from getting nursing home care.
    The budget also fails to extend the Affordable Care Act expanded premium tax credits, which expire at the end of 2025.
    The latest CBO estimates that the combined cuts to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act would result in 17 million Americans losing health insurance by 2034, and increase our national debt by $3.3 trillion.   
    The cuts would hit rural hospitals the hardest:
    According to initial estimates, more than 338 rural hospitals across the country are at an acute risk of closure as a result of these Medicaid cuts. Including 6 hospitals in Colorado:
    Delta County Memorial Hospital – Delta (CO-03)
    Conejos County Hospital – La Jara (CO-03)
    Grand River Hospital District – Rifle (CO-03)
    Prowers Medical Center – Lamar (CO-04)
    Southwest Memorial Hospital – Cortez (CO-03)
    Arkansas Valley Regional Medical Center – La Junta (CO-03)

    Slashing Investments in Clean Energy and Driving up Energy Bills
    The Republican budget bill guts hundreds of billions in Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) clean energy investments, including tax credits for wind and solar. The results: over a million jobs lost, hundreds of billions in lost GDP and lost wages, electricity price inflation, and killing new renewable energy needed to prevent blackouts.
    Increasing Our National Debt by Trillions
    Even after gutting over $1 trillion from Medicaid and other services, the Senate reconciliation bill will still increase our national debt by more than $3.3 TRILLION.
    The Senate version of the bill adds $900 billion moreto the national debt than the previous House version of the bill.
    Hickenlooper recently took to the Senate floor to slam the bill as “fiscal madness.”
    ADDITIONAL AMENDMENTS:
    In total, Hickenlooper introduced and joined 16+ amendments to the 2025 Senate reconciliation bill to oppose Republican provisions that would harm Coloradans. Specifically, he introduced and joined amendments to:
    Prevent Americans from Losing Health Care
    Protect Nursing Homes and Medicaid Patients: Hickenlooper-led amendment to strike any provision that cuts funding for Medicaid, which covers care for 60% of all nursing home residents.
    Safeguard Small Businesses and Medicaid: Hickenlooper-led amendment to strike any provision that cuts funding for Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which protects access for the 7,000,000 small businesses workers who depend on Medicaid coverage; and protects access for the 4,000,000 small businesses who depend on the ACA exchanges.
    Protect Medicaid: Led by Senator Wyden, Hickenlooper joined this amendment to strike any provision that cuts funding for Medicaid; and would ensure big corporations and the ultra-wealthy pay a fair share in taxes.
    Extend ACA Enhanced Premium Tax Credits: Led by Senator Jon Ossoff, Hickenlooper joined this amendment to permanently extend the Affordable Care Act enhanced Premium Tax Credits.
    Protect Safety Net Programs
    Safeguard SNAP-Education: Led by Senator Angela Alsobrooks, Hickenlooper joined this amendment to strike the section that eliminates the SNAP Education Program, which provides free nutrition education to SNAP recipients.
    Expand Pell Grant Eligibility: Led by Senator Tim Kaine, Hickenlooper joined this amendment to strike the workforce Pell section in the budget bill and replace it with the bipartisan JOBS Act to expand Pell Grant eligibility to include short-term workforce training programs.
    Protect Public Lands
    Block Sale of Public Lands: Hickenlooper-led amendment to block the sale of our public lands. The amendment ensures that public lands cannot be sold if they hold any of the multiple values our public lands offer, including benefits for watershed health, hunting, fishing, recreation, and critical wildlife habitat. It also excludes sale of lands with cultural or historic significance, areas sensitive for national security, areas within an Indian reservation, or lands to which Tribes hold reserved rights.
    Non-Competitive Leasing: Hickenlooper-led amendment to strike provision that would reauthorize non-competitive leasing on federal public lands.
    Maintaining National Park Service Staffing: Led by Senator Angus King, Hickenlooper joined this amendment to strike the repeal of ~$267M in Inflation Reduction Act funding for the National Park Service staffing.
    Address our Climate Crisis + Invest in Renewable Energy
    Protect the solar industry:Hickenlooper-led amendment to change the termination date of the 25D Residential Clean Energy Credit from December 31, 2025 to December 31, 2026 to save jobs and small businesses and help American households power their homes and reduce energy costs with solar, battery storage, and geothermal heat pumps. It is paid for by increasing the top tax bracket to 39.6%.
    RECA Expansion: Hickenlooper-led amendment that adds Colorado to the list of states that benefit from an expanded downwinder provision under the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act.
    Advanced Manufacturing Tax Credit: Led by Senator Michael Bennet, Hickenlooper joined this amendment to strike all changes to the 45X Advanced Manufacturing Tax Credit, but retain foreign entities of concern rules, and strike changes to 48C advanced energy tax credit.
    Maintaining Parity for Wind and Solar Facilities: Led by Senator Jacky Rosen, Hickenlooper joined this amendment to restore parity for solar and wind with other technologies under the Production Tax Credit (45Y) and Investment Tax Credit (48E), paid for with an increase to the top rate at $1 million for individual filers and $1.3M for married filing jointly.
    Eliminating the tax on wind and solar: Led by Senator Adam Schiff, Hickenlooper joined this amendment to strike the new excise tax on wind and solar, paid for with an increase to 39.6 percent for individuals making $10 million.
    Repeal of Termination of Certain Clean Energy Credits: Led by Senators Jean Shaheen and Peter Welch, Hickenlooper joined this amendment to strike provisions that would terminate the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit (25C), the Residential Clean Energy Credit (25D), the New Energy Efficient Home Tax Credit (45L), and the Energy Efficient Commercial Building Deduction (179D).
    Maintaining Modernized Royalty Rates: Led by Senator Jacky Rosen, Hickenlooper joined this amendment to strike the repeal of the Inflation Reduction Act royalty rate modernization for oil and gas.
    Budget resolutions guide federal spending and revenue policies for the year. This is the third budget resolution the Senate has voted on during the reconciliation process. Hickenlooper voted against the first package in February, and the second package in April. The Senate and the House must pass identical versions of the budget for the reconciliation bill to become law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: DOJ/FTC Host Listening Session on Lowering Americans’ Drug Prices Through Competition, part 2

    Source: United States Department of Justice (video statements)

    DOJ/FTC Host Listening Sessions on Lowering Americans’ Drug Prices Through Competition: Anticompetitive Conduct by Pharmaceutical Companies Impeding Generic or Biosimilar Competition

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

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Country Threat Assessment – E-002552/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002552/2025
    to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
    Rule 144
    Alexander Sell (ESN)

    The European External Action Service provides a categorisation of the threat status of all states. The country threat assessment (CTA) categorises the threat status of countries as ‘low’, ‘moderate’, ‘significant’, ‘high’, and ‘critical’.

    • 1.What specific data, and from which organisations, does the European External Action Service use to produce the CTA?
    • 2.What assessment categories are there and how are the individual countries assigned to a category?
    • 3.Since when and on what basis has the threat status of Germany been classified as ‘significant’ and what was the previous classification?

    Submitted: 25.6.2025

    Last updated: 1 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – The Danish Parliament and EU affairs – 01-07-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Denmark is a constitutional monarchy with a representative parliamentary system. According to the Constitutional Act (section 3), the monarch and the Parliament jointly constitute the legislative authority, the monarch exercises executive authority, and the courts of justice represent the judicial authority. The monarch, however, mainly has a ceremonial role and appoints the Prime Minister and cabinet ministers, who are responsible for governing the country. The government is formed through the system of ‘negative parliamentarism’, meaning that the government must not be opposed by a majority in the Parliament. The government and its ministers are accountable to the Parliament. General elections must be held at least every four years, while the Prime Minister can dissolve the Parliament and call for new elections. Powers are separated, but a close link exists between the Parliament and the government due to parliamentarism, with political parties playing a key role. Most of the ministers are usually members of parliament, even if this is not a requirement. The Folketing is the unicameral Parliament of the Kingdom of Denmark. It is composed of 179 members elected by general and direct ballot for a period of four years: 135 members are elected through party-list proportional representation in ten constituencies; 40 seats are allocated to ensure proportionality at national level; and, as part of the Danish Realm, Greenland and the Faroe Islands each elect two members.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Priority dossiers under the Danish EU Council Presidency – 01-07-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Denmark assumed the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union on 1 July and will hold the office until 31 December 2025. It took over from Poland and will hand the baton to Cyprus, the three countries forming a presidency trio.

    Source : © European Union, 2025 – EP

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Gain-of-function research as a security risk for the EU – E-002369/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002369/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Gerald Hauser (PfE)

    Neither the Chinese nor the US Government officially disputes that the COVID-19 virus was artificially created in a laboratory as part of ‘gain-of-function’ research and that the global COVID-19 pandemic was triggered either by a laboratory accident or deliberate release. The US Government has therefore recently slashed funding for gain-of-function research or stopped it altogether in certain countries. In the last few months, a pair of Chinese researchers working at the University of Michigan was charged in the US with attempting to smuggle a dangerous pathogen – a potential bioweapon – into the United States. The US prosecutor in charge of the case described it as a matter of utmost importance for national security[1].

    • 1.Which gain-of-function research programmes and which laboratories involved have been and are being supported financially, organisationally or with personnel by the Commission, its bodies, agencies or entities since 2015?
    • 2.What measures has the Commission taken to prevent the import, manufacture or release of potential biological weapons in the EU?
    • 3.Does the Commission intend to ban gain-of-function research – i.e. the artificial creation of potentially dangerous pathogens of any kind – in the future?

    Submitted: 12.6.2025

    • [1] https://www.foxnews.com/us/patel-chinese-nationals-charged-smuggling-known-agroterrorism-agent-into-us-direct-threat
    Last updated: 1 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Eje Transversal Ferroviario (‘Crosslink Railway Corridor’) – E-002496/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002496/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Jaume Asens Llodrà (Verts/ALE)

    The Eje Transversal Ferroviario (‘Crosslink Railway Corridor’), or ETF, is a strategic piece of infrastructure to connect Lleida with Girona and France via the interior of Catalonia, with branches to the ports of Tarragona and Barcelona. Designed for passenger and freight transport, it would ease congestion on the Catalan coast, which is currently saturated by mixed traffic on the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) Mediterranean Corridor. The ETF would allow freight trains to be diverted from densely populated areas to a more efficient route compatible with local mobility. It would contribute to territorial rebalancing by giving a boost to inland districts and reducing the concentration in Barcelona.

    The project has had an approved plan since 2010, with estimated investment of EUR 7 000 million and phased development. The Catalan Parliament agreed to start a preliminary study. A number of institutional and social actors are calling for the project to be taken forward in the drive for more sustainable transport.

    In light of the above:

    • 1.Would the Commission welcome it if the ETF made it possible to separate passenger and freight transport and promote the shift from road to rail, in line with the objectives of the EU’s 2020 sustainable and smart mobility strategy as part of the European Green Deal?
    • 2.Could the ETF be eligible for EU funding through the Connecting Europe Facility (Mediterranean Corridor framework)?

    Submitted: 23.6.2025

    Last updated: 1 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Human rights situation in the river basins of Curbaradó and Jiguamiandó in Bajo Atrato (Colombia) – E-002311/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002311/2025/rev.1
    to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
    Rule 144
    Isabel Serra Sánchez (The Left)

    National and international organisations are warning of the escalating human rights situation in the river basins of Curbaradó and Jiguamiandó in Bajo Atrato (Colombia). With illegal armed groups’ territorial control increasing, the ethnic communities that have historically defended human rights and the environment and put forward valuable peacebuilding proposals have been threatened and attacked. The region, one of the world’s most biodiverse and rich in natural resources, is the focus of many licit and illicit economic interests. A recent investigation by the Environmental Investigation Agency reported that timber illegally logged in the region was being imported into the EU. Furthermore, historic local leaders are being brought to trial.

    • 1.Is the EU delegation aware of the security situation of social and environmental leaders in Bajo Atrato?
    • 2.Within the framework of EU guidelines on human rights defenders, what is the Vice President / High Representative doing to monitor legal process 2022 (Chocó-Riosucio Ordinary Circuit Court, Summary No 030-132, Rd. 2761531890012022-00104-00), against historic leaders of Jiguamiandó (Carmen del Darién-Chocó) despite their proven status as victims of conflict and the precautionary measures of the IACHR (6-18 MC140-14CO) and the Special Jurisdiction for Peace (Auto 175 of 2019)?

    Submitted: 10.6.2025

    Last updated: 1 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Suspension of EU funds to Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger – E-002504/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002504/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Paolo Inselvini (ECR), Sergio Berlato (ECR), Giovanni Crosetto (ECR), Alberico Gambino (ECR), Mariateresa Vivaldini (ECR), Alessandro Ciriani (ECR), Chiara Gemma (ECR)

    The Commission has suspended aid provided under the NDICI-Global Europe instrument (Regulation (EU) 2021/947) and has not presented revisions of the multiannual indicative programmes (MIPs) for Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, citing interruptions to the constitutional order as the basis for the decision.

    These funds were crucial for stability in the region and the objectives set out in the EU’s Sahel strategy. The Commission has adopted a completely different approach for other countries in similar situations, such as Chad, Gabon and Guinea.

    Italy has kept the cooperation channels open and the bilateral mission to Niger (MISIN) operational, unlike the EU. The EU’s absence risks undermining the protection of key areas for combating terrorism, migration and illicit trafficking, leaving room for hostile powers.

    In light of the above, can the Commission please answer the following questions:

    • 1.What legal and democratic assessment criteria form the basis for such different approaches to similar situations, and how will African criticisms of double standards be addressed?
    • 2.How will the growing influence of hostile foreign powers be countered in a key region for European strategic interests?
    • 3.Under what conditions would the Commission be willing to reinstate the MIPs?

    Submitted: 23.6.2025

    Last updated: 1 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Ongoing job insecurity of part-time volunteer firefighters in Italy – state of play of procedure INFR(2014)4231 and structural staff shortages – E-002505/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002505/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Giuseppe Antoci (The Left)

    In Italy, thousands of workers known as ‘part-time volunteer firefighters’ have worked for years in precarious conditions, on repeated temporary contracts and with no structural protection.

    The Commission opened an infringement procedure in that regard against Italy[1] for breach of Directive 1999/70/EC, which is still open[2]. Although the Italian authorities said that from 1 January 2025 those precarious posts would no longer be allowed, as they were being replaced by permanent staff, it does not appear thus far that this plan has been fully implemented.

    What is more, Decree-Law No 131 of 2024 provided only for partial compensation for precarious workers in the public administration, but did not include a clear stabilisation path for part-time firefighters.

    At the same time, Italy faces a serious shortage of permanent firefighters[3]. The high average age[4], the absence of regular competitions and the reduction of training activities compound this state of affairs.

    In the light of the above:

    • 1.Can the Commission provide an update on the current state of play of the infringement procedure?
    • 2.Does it think that the measures Italy has announced are sufficient to put an end to the abuse of fixed-term contracts in practice and comply with Directive 1999/70/EC?

    Submitted: 23.6.2025

    • [1] INFR(2014)4231.
    • [2] In March 2025, it confirmed that the situation was still being assessed and monitored.
    • [3] In regions such as Emilia-Romagna and Sicily, shortages are as high as 40 %. Nationally, shortages are estimated at 4 000 operational units and 2 500 administrative units.
    • [4] Their average age is 47.
    Last updated: 1 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Measures to retain and recycle black mass from electric vehicle batteries within the EU – E-001428/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    For all waste destined for disposal, or in the case of hazardous and most mixed waste destined to recovery, the prior notification and consent procedure applies.

    This means that an operator planning such shipments needs the prior consent of all authorities from the countries concerned (from origin to destination, including transit) before the shipment can take place.

    The new Waste Shipment Regulation[1] will simplify this process and move away from a paper-based approach to an electronic one. A central EU system will ensure the smooth operation of this exchange from May 2026.

    The Commission will develop a central hub that will allow the exchange of information and documents between the central system and local system operated by some competent authorities as well as software offered by commercial software providers.

    The Implementing Act on interoperability of systems for electronic submission and exchange of information and documents is intended to be adopted in the coming weeks.

    Related to recycling, Article 72(3) of the Batteries Regulation[2] sets the clear and strict condition that waste batteries or fractions thereof exported from the Union shall only count towards the fulfilment of obligations, efficiencies and targets laid down in Articles 70 and 71 of the Batteries Regulation if the exporter of the waste batteries or fractions thereof provides documentary evidence approved by the competent authority of destination that the treatment took place in conditions that are equivalent to those required by the Batteries Regulation and in accordance with other Union law regarding human health and environmental protection.

    Together those provisions will improve the economic model for recycling black mass within the EU.

    • [1] Regulation (EU) 2024/1157 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 April 2024 on shipments of waste, amending Regulations (EU) No 1257/2013 and (EU) 2020/1056 and repealing Regulation (EC) No 1013/2006, OJ L, 2024/1157, 30.4.2024.
    • [2] Regulation (EU) 2023/1542 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 12 July 2023 concerning batteries and waste batteries, amending Directive 2008/98/EC and Regulation (EU) 2019/1020 and repealing Directive 2006/66/EC, OJ L 191, 28.7.2023, p. 1-117.
    Last updated: 1 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Inadequate consideration of eastern EU countries’ significance and contribution to European security in EU defence industry initiatives – E-001541/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Member States that are also North Atlantic Treaty Organisation allies have committed to spend at least 2% of their gross domestic product on defence.

    While not all Member States have reached this target yet, the trajectory over the past years is going in that direction. The White Paper for European Defence — Readiness 2030[1] recognises this positive trend and notes a growth in the defence spending by Member States of more than 31% since 2021, reaching 1.9% of the EU’s combined gross domestic product in 2024. But this is not enough, in particular to compensate for decades of underinvestment in defence.

    In view of the growing geopolitical challenges EU faces, its security depends on this overall increase of defence spending and defence investments, as well as Member States closely coordinating and working together.

    The Commission therefore offers support to all Member States in this endeavour, including by offering the possibility to Member States to use the national escape clause of the Stability and Growth Pact[2] for additional expenditure in defence up to EUR 650 billion, in a framed and coordinated manner.

    Finally, the Security Action for Europe Regulation adopted by Member States on 27 May 2025[3] will provide Member States with loans up to EUR 150 billion.

    Its recital (8) acknowledges that ‘… there is a growing need to accelerate, in a spirit of solidarity, the provision of Union support to those Member States that are likely to be threatened by serious difficulties due to the massive public investments needed, which may have an impact on their economic situation and that …, such solidarity is especially essential for those Member States which are most exposed to military threats’.

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/e6d5db69-e0ab-4bec-9dc0-3867b4373019_en?filename=White%20paper%20for%20European%20defence%20%E2%80%93%20Readiness%202030.pdf.
    • [2] https://defence-industry-space.ec.europa.eu/document/download/a57304ce-1a98-4a2c-aed5-36485884f1a0_en?filename=Communication-on-the-national-escape-clause.pdf.
    • [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=OJ:L_202501106.
    Last updated: 1 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The Commission’s role in ensuring legal certainty, consistency and balance between security and investment in Member States’ FDI screening – E-002558/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002558/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Anders Vistisen (PfE)

    • 1.Is the Commission aware that Member States like Denmark are having major problems in implementing the FDI Regulation in practice?
    • 2.How does the Commission define what constitutes a hostile state or investor where FDI is concerned?
    • 3.How does the Commission balance security concerns with the need for foreign investment and legal certainty for businesses?

    Submitted: 25.6.2025

    Last updated: 1 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Ensuring a fair and competitive green transition in the EU – E-002557/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002557/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Sunčana Glavak (PPE)

    Regulations (EU) 2023/959 and 2023/956 of the European Parliament and of the Council have introduced new climate instruments, such as the Emissions Trading System for Buildings and Road Transport (ETS2) and the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). These instruments aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and bolster the Union’s climate ambitions. However, their financial impact is causing concern among citizens and business entities. Additional costs arising from new requirements could lead to an increase in energy and product prices, which could reduce the competitiveness of the European economy in the long term. It is therefore imperative that, in addition to energy efficiency, we also ensure financial sustainability when implementing green policies, in particular with regard to the fair distribution of costs and the protection of the most vulnerable groups.

    In view of the above:

    • 1.Does the Commission plan to take additional measures to ensure that the green transition does not disproportionately affect the competitiveness of lower-income households and small businesses? If so, which ones?
    • 2.Is the Commission considering introducing targeted co-financing programmes for private users and small businesses to set up the charging infrastructure required for electric vehicles, so as to encourage their wider deployment and availability?

    Submitted: 25.6.2025

    Last updated: 1 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –