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  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy on Meet the Press: Nobody Is Asking for 16 Million People to Lose Their Health Care Just So the Corporations and the Very Rich Can Get a New Tax Cut

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    June 30, 2025

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Sunday joined NBC’s Meet the Press with Kristen Welker to discuss Senate Republicans’ efforts to ram through a bill that kicks millions of Americans off their health care in the dead of night, the Trump administration’s lawless immigration policies and the Supreme Court’s enabling of his abuse of power, and the lessons Democrats can learn from Zohran Mamdani’s win the New York mayoral primary.

    Murphy highlighted how deeply unpopular the Republican reconciliation bill is: “By almost a two-to-one margin, the American people hate this piece of legislation because it’s going to represent the biggest transfer of wealth and money from the poor and middle class to the rich in the history of the country. It’s not about efficiencies in Medicaid. CBO – which is the Congressional Budget Office, non-partisan – says it’s going to kick between 10 and 15 million people off their health care, and for what? To be able to afford a new $270,000 tax cut for the richest families in the country. New tax cuts for corporations. New tax cuts for billionaires. This bill stinks. It’s a moral abomination. Everybody that learns about it hates it, and so there’s a chance that it won’t pass. That’s in part why we’re forcing them to read it, because every single day that people learn about it, they are flooding their members’ offices with calls to tell them to stop this bill. Nobody is asking for 16 million people to lose their health care just so the corporations and the very rich can get a new tax cut. That’s super unpopular, and we’re going to work this thing until the final vote.”

    Murphy slammed the Trump administration for its blatant disregard for immigration laws: “They are acting in a lawless manner every single day. They are not focusing on dangerous people. They are literally going to Home Depots. They are busting into people’s private homes. They are targeting Latinos all over the country, whether they are undocumented or not. This isn’t about trying to keep the country safer. This is about trying to make this country scared of folks who speak a different language or come from a different place…This is becoming a lawless administration. We are on a road to seeing our democracy atrophy to the point that it will be unrecognizable, and the border is just one example of many ways in which this administration doesn’t care about the law anymore.”

    On the Supreme Court’s decision in Trump v. CASA, Murphy said: “Both the Constitution and the law is clear: if you’re born in the United States of America, you’re a US citizen. But now, because there’s no longer going to be a federal policy, it’s going to be different in every state. A child born in Connecticut will be a citizen, but that same child, if they were born in Oklahoma, might not be. That’s chaos. By taking away the power of courts to restrain the President when he is clearly acting in an unlawful manner, as he is when he says that children born in the United States are no longer citizens, you are assisting him in trying to undermine the rule of law and undermine our democracy. So that case is really dangerous because it sets up a patchwork of citizenship laws, but it’s really dangerous because it will incentivize the president to act in a lawless manner. Because now only the Supreme Court, who can only take a handful of cases a year, can ever stop him from violating the laws of the Constitution.”

    Murphy urged the Democratic Party to learn from Zohran Mamdani’s win in the New York mayoral primary: “He was laser-like focused on the issue of costs. He was laser-like focused on the issue of transferring power from people who have way too much of it, like the big real estate companies that jack up everybody’s rent in New York, and putting that power in the hands of regular citizens. He was authentic, right? I mean, yeah, he’s got some views that are a little bit out of the conventional mainstream. But you know what? The traditional political pundits have no idea what’s actually mainstream in this country. And when you’re talking about costs, when you’re talking about de-rigging the economy every single day, when you’re presenting big, bold ideas on how to do that, you’re going to do pretty well in elections. And so Democrats should learn from his victory.”

    Click Here to Watch Murphy’s Full Interview

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: PMPRB releases new Guidelines to monitor and review drug prices

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    News Release

    For Immediate Release

    June 30, 2025 — Ottawa, ON — Patented Medicine Prices Review Board

    The Patented Medicine Prices Review Board (PMPRB) published its new Guidelines for PMPRB Staff today. They will take effect on January 1, 2026. The Guidelines explain the new two-step process used by PMPRB staff to monitor and review drug prices by comparing them to the prices in other countries or to other similar treatments in Canada. If a drug’s price raises concerns, PMPRB staff may recommend a hearing to the Chair. These new Guidelines have been established following a comprehensive consultation process, after much consideration from the Board. They depart significantly from previous Guidelines.

    As per the new Guidelines, the PMPRB will follow a two-step review process. The Initial or Annual Review serves as a screening process. If this step raises concerns, or if a complaint is received from an approved individual or organization, the PMPRB will then start a more in-depth review. During an In-Depth Review the PMPRB staff compare the drug under review to similar drugs and treatments available for the same medical conditions.

    The PMPRB plays a unique and important role in the Canadian health system by ensuring that prices of patented medicines are not excessive. The Guidelines provide a transparent and predictable process to be used by PMPRB staff to review drug prices once they enter the market. 

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister Anand announces funding to promote Indigenous voices on the world stage

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    June 30, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

    The Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced that Global Affairs Canada will provide $3 million to the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) to support their work with Indigenous Peoples to promote Indigenous voices internationally.

    This funding will support the Indigenous Fellowship Program and the UN Voluntary Fund for Indigenous Peoples. Through these initiatives, Indigenous leaders will receive training, mentorship, and financial support to help them engage effectively with UN human rights mechanisms and to strengthen their ability to advocate within the UN.

    By promoting Indigenous voices in international decision making, these initiatives strengthen the ability of Indigenous leaders to advocate for Indigenous rights, hold states accountable and influence policies that impact Indigenous Peoples worldwide.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Backgrounder: Minister Anand announces funding to promote Indigenous voices on the world stage

    Source: Government of Canada News

    The Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs, announced that Global Affairs Canada will provide $3 million to the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights for the following project.

    Project: Indigenous Fellowship Program and UN Voluntary Fund for Indigenous Peoples

    Funding amount: $3 million

    This project supports Indigenous representatives in strengthening their advocacy skills and participation in international decision-making processes. Through the Indigenous Fellowship Program and the UN Voluntary Fund for Indigenous Peoples, Indigenous leaders will receive training, mentorship and financial support to engage effectively with UN human rights mechanisms.

    The project includes participation from 90 Indigenous representatives, including women, persons with disabilities and 2SLGBTIQ+ individuals, and will enhance their advocacy and leadership skills through training and leadership development. Additionally, at least 160 Indigenous representatives will participate in UN forums, including the UN Human Rights Council and the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues. An Indigenous alumni network will be established to share knowledge and experiences globally and a digital platform will be created to support training, engagement and long-term advocacy efforts.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico Announces Intent to Seek Death Penalty Against Labar Tsethlikai

    Source: US FBI

    ALBUQUERQUE – Today, the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico filed a Notice of Intent to seek the death penalty against Labar Tsethlikai.

    Tsethlikai, 52, an enrolled Member of Zuni Pueblo, is charged in a 17-count Second Superseding Indictment as follows:

    • Count 1 (October 22, 2022): Kidnapping Resulting in Death of John Doe 1
    • Count 2 (January 18, 2024): First Degree Murder of John Doe 2
    • Count 3 (January 18, 2024): First Degree Felony Murder of John Doe 2
    • Count 4 (January 18, 2024): Kidnapping Resulting in Death of John Doe 2
    • Count 5 (May 19, 2023): Kidnapping of John Doe 3
    • Count 6 (June 15, 2023): Kidnapping of John Doe 4
    • Count 7 (June 15, 2023): Assault with Intent to Commit Murder of John Doe 4
    • Count 8 (June 15, 2023): Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury of John Doe 4
    • Count 9 (July 13, 2023): Kidnapping of John Doe 5
    • Count 10 (July 13, 2023): Aggravated Sexual Abuse of John Doe 5
    • Count 11 (August 24, 2023): Kidnapping of John Doe 6
    • Count 12 (August 24, 2023): Assault with a Dangerous Weapon of John Doe 6
    • Count 13 (September 7, 2023): Kidnapping of John Doe 7
    • Count 14 (September 15, 2023): Kidnapping of John Doe 8
    • Count 15 (February 16, 2024): Kidnapping of John Doe 9
    • Count 16 (April 5, 2024): Kidnapping of John Doe 10
    • Count 17 (April 11, 2024): Kidnapping of John Doe 11

    The maximum penalty for the kidnapping resulting in death charges is death, and Attorney General Bondi has authorized and directed the United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico to pursue capital punishment in this case. Consistent with that authorization, the U.S. Attorney filed a notice of intent to seek the death penalty against Tsethlikai.

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

    The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office is investigating this case with assistance from the Albuquerque Police Department’s Homicide Unit, Sex Crimes Unit, and Air Support Unit. Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew J. McGinley and Jack E. Burkhead are prosecuting the case.

    The FBI continues to investigate Tsethlikai’s involvement in crimes against other victims. If you have reason to believe you or someone you know may be a victim, or have information about Tsethlikai, please call the FBI at (505) 889-1300 or submit tips online at tips.fbi.gov.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico Announces Intent to Seek Death Penalty Against Labar Tsethlikai

    Source: US FBI

    ALBUQUERQUE – Today, the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico filed a Notice of Intent to seek the death penalty against Labar Tsethlikai.

    Tsethlikai, 52, an enrolled Member of Zuni Pueblo, is charged in a 17-count Second Superseding Indictment as follows:

    • Count 1 (October 22, 2022): Kidnapping Resulting in Death of John Doe 1
    • Count 2 (January 18, 2024): First Degree Murder of John Doe 2
    • Count 3 (January 18, 2024): First Degree Felony Murder of John Doe 2
    • Count 4 (January 18, 2024): Kidnapping Resulting in Death of John Doe 2
    • Count 5 (May 19, 2023): Kidnapping of John Doe 3
    • Count 6 (June 15, 2023): Kidnapping of John Doe 4
    • Count 7 (June 15, 2023): Assault with Intent to Commit Murder of John Doe 4
    • Count 8 (June 15, 2023): Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury of John Doe 4
    • Count 9 (July 13, 2023): Kidnapping of John Doe 5
    • Count 10 (July 13, 2023): Aggravated Sexual Abuse of John Doe 5
    • Count 11 (August 24, 2023): Kidnapping of John Doe 6
    • Count 12 (August 24, 2023): Assault with a Dangerous Weapon of John Doe 6
    • Count 13 (September 7, 2023): Kidnapping of John Doe 7
    • Count 14 (September 15, 2023): Kidnapping of John Doe 8
    • Count 15 (February 16, 2024): Kidnapping of John Doe 9
    • Count 16 (April 5, 2024): Kidnapping of John Doe 10
    • Count 17 (April 11, 2024): Kidnapping of John Doe 11

    The maximum penalty for the kidnapping resulting in death charges is death, and Attorney General Bondi has authorized and directed the United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico to pursue capital punishment in this case. Consistent with that authorization, the U.S. Attorney filed a notice of intent to seek the death penalty against Tsethlikai.

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

    The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office is investigating this case with assistance from the Albuquerque Police Department’s Homicide Unit, Sex Crimes Unit, and Air Support Unit. Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew J. McGinley and Jack E. Burkhead are prosecuting the case.

    The FBI continues to investigate Tsethlikai’s involvement in crimes against other victims. If you have reason to believe you or someone you know may be a victim, or have information about Tsethlikai, please call the FBI at (505) 889-1300 or submit tips online at tips.fbi.gov.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Miller-Meeks Joins Army Secretary Driscoll at Rock Island Arsenal

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks’ (IA-02)

    Davenport, IA – Today, U.S. Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01) joined Secretary of the Army Driscoll for a site visit and mission briefing at the Rock Island Arsenal, one of the nation’s most critical logistics and manufacturing hubs.

    “Rock Island Arsenal has always been a pillar of strength for our national defense and the Quad Cities region,” said Miller-Meeks. “As a 24-year Army veteran, it was an honor to join Secretary Driscoll today and hear directly from the dedicated men and women who keep this installation running. I remain committed to protecting the Arsenal, supporting its workforce, and ensuring it continues to serve our nation for generations to come.”

    During the visit, Miller-Meeks and Secretary Driscoll toured the installation’s manufacturing operations, met with Army personnel and civilian employees, and discussed how provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, like full expensing, can modernize the Arsenal’s equipment production capabilities and drive innovation in defense manufacturing.

    Background:

    This visit follows Miller-Meeks’ April 25, 2025 letter to Secretary Driscoll urging him to protect Rock Island Arsenal amid reports of a potential reduction in force due to a consolidation of Joint Munitions Command (JMC) and Army Sustainment Command (ASC). In the letter, Miller-Meeks emphasized that Rock Island Arsenal is not only essential to America’s military readiness but also a cornerstone of the Quad Cities economy.

    According to the Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce, Rock Island Arsenal supports more than 15,000 jobs and contributes over $1.2 billion annually to the regional economy. The installation provides command support to the Army Contracting Command, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and plays a unique role in advanced manufacturing, including 3-D printed parts for troops deployed abroad.

    Miller-Meeks, who serves on the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, has been a consistent advocate for protecting and strengthening Rock Island Arsenal through the annual National Defense Authorization Act. Nearly half of Arsenal employees live in Iowa, and many are veterans continuing to serve their country in civilian roles.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Passes Bipartisan Bill to End Organ Transplant Discrimination Against Individuals with Disabilites

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Kat Cammack (R-FL-03)

    Washington, D.C. – Last week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Charlotte Woodward Organ Transplant Discrimination Prevention Act, a landmark, bipartisan bill that protects Americans with disabilites from being denied life-saving organ transplants solely based on their disability. This legislation, sponsored by Representatives Kat Cammack (R-FL-03) and Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), ensures that disability is never used as a barrier to receiving critical medical care.

    This bill upholds, clarifies, and builds upon protections established under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act. It prohibits discrimination by covered entities–including hospitals, transplant centers, and insurance providers–in the organ transplant process. 

    Specifically, the Charlotte Woodward Organ Transplant Discrimination Act bars the following actions solely based on disability: 

    • Determining that an individual is ineligible to receive an organ transplant
    • Denying an organ transplant or related medical services
    • Refusing to refer an individual to a transplant center
    • Declining to place an individual on a transplant waiting list
    • Denying insurance coverage for a transplant or related services

    “Baby Zion, a young infant with Down syndrome in Florida’s Third Congressional District, was denied a lifesaving heart transplant in 2021, and passed away. His life was worth saving, and we’re fighting to end discrimination in the organ transplant system so the same thing never happens again,” said Congresswoman Cammack. “I am honored to work alongside Congresswoman Dingell and my colleagues on both sides of the aisle in safeguarding the rights of those with disabilities.”

    “It’s unthinkable that people with disabilities are passed over for life-saving transplants based on discriminatory and subjective assumptions about their ability to comply with post-operative care,” said Congresswoman Dingell. “This bill takes important action to ensure that all Americans, regardless of disability status, receive equitable access to the care they need. I’m thankful to Rep. Kat Cammack for her partnership, and most of all, I’m thankful to Charlotte for her incredible energy, advocacy, and commitment to making a positive change. I’m glad to see it one step closer to becoming law. We need to get it done.”

    Background: 

    Named for Charlotte Woodward, an adult with Down syndrome who received a lifesaving heart transplant over a decade ago, the bill also recognizes the importance of auxiliary aids and services, the ability of an individual’s support network to assist with post-operative care, and the need for reasonable modifications to policies and procedures to make organ transplant systems and facilities more accessible to those with disabilities.

    Rep. Cammack’s inspiration for introducing the legislation is Baby Zion Sarmiento, from Ocala, Florida. Zion was born with Down syndrome and a heart defect in June 2021. After spending 40 days in the NICU and enduring five open-heart surgeries, Zion passed away after being denied a heart transplant because of his disability.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Tenney Reintroduces the Remembering Our Local Heroes Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-22)

    Washington, DC – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today, alongside Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), reintroduced the Remembering Our Local Heroes Act to direct the Secretary of the Interior to establish a grant program to provide funding for memorials honoring veterans, law enforcement officers, and firefighters.

    “Our veterans, first responders, and law enforcement officers embody the very best of our nation, and we must honor their courage and selflessness. This includes preserving local memorials, which serve as powerful reminders of these heroes’ legacies and sacrifices. The Remembering Our Local Heroes Act ensures that communities in New York and across the country have the resources needed to maintain and restore these tributes for future generations,” said Congresswoman Tenney.

    “First responders, members of the military, and all those who have served our nation deserve to be honored and remembered for their service and sacrifice. This bipartisan legislation will help communities in New Hampshire and across the country build, maintain, and restore memorials honoring our heroes, ensuring that they will never be forgotten,” said Congressman Pappas. 

     

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Merkley Reintroduce Legislation to Protect LGBTQI+ Communities from Global Violence

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)

    June 30, 2025

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley said today they have introduced a bill to impose sanctions on foreign actors responsible for human rights violations against LGBTQI+ communities abroad. 

    “For far too long, the LGBTQI+ community has faced bigotry, hate, and violence all across the globe,” Wyden said. “We can’t let oppressive regimes get away with jailing or murdering individuals simply because of who they love and how they identify. This bill sends a clear message to bad actors overseas: there is no place for violence and discrimination against the LGBTQI+ community.” 

    “We are living in a time in which governments around the world continue to make dangerous threats against our LGBTQI+ family, friends, and neighbors,” said Merkley, author of the Equality Act. “Every person—regardless of who they are, whom they love, or where they live—has the right to be treated with decency and respect. We need legislation like the Global Respect Act to send a clear message to the world that the United States is committed to defending these critical human rights.” 

    Specifically, the Global Respect Act would:  

    • Require the Executive Branch to biannually send Congress a list of foreign persons responsible for, or complicit in, cruel, inhumane or degrading treatment or punishment of an individual, prolonged detention of an individual without charges or trials, causing the disappearance of an individual by abduction and clandestine detention of an individual, and other flagrant denials of the right to life, liberty or the security of an individual. 
    • Authorize the Administration to deny or revoke visas to individuals placed on the list. 
    • Require the annual State Department Report on Human Rights to include a section on LGBTQI+ international human rights, as well as an annual report to Congress on the status of the law’s effectiveness.
    • Require the Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights and Labor to designate a senior officer responsible for tracking violence, criminalization and restrictions on the enjoyment of fundamental freedoms in foreign countries based on sexual orientation or gender identity.

    The legislation has been endorsed by the Human Rights Campaign, the Council for Global Equality, American Jewish World Service and Human Rights First. 

    The bill is led by Senators Jeanne Shaheen, D-N.H., and Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska. In addition to Wyden and Merkley, the bill is cosponsored by Senators Chris Murphy, D-Conn., Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., Cory Booker, D-N.J., Peter Welch, D-Vt., Brian Schatz, D-Hawai’i, Edward J. Markey, D-Mass., and Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis.

    The text of the bill is here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Huawei and African Utilities Release fine-grain Optical Transmission Network (fgOTN) White Paper to Guide Next-Gen Power Communication Networks

    During the Africa Energy Forum, Huawei, together with several African electric utilities, officially released the fgOTN (fine grain OTN) White Paper for Electric Power, offering critical insights and guidance for African utilities on building next-generation power communication networks.

    The white paper is designed to support power companies in navigating the evolving digital landscape, which is increasingly defined by AI integration and emerging service demands.

    Addressing Legacy Network Challenges

    As the power sector continues its digital transformation, traditional communication technologies such as SDH (Synchronous Digital Hierarchy) are reaching the end of their lifecycle, with limited evolution and outdated infrastructure.

    In response, the newly released white paper introduces fgOTN, a next-generation solution that provides a reference architecture and construction roadmap for power communication networks, leveraging fine-granularity Optical Transport Network (OTN) technology.

    fgOTN: Built for Africa’s Power Sector

    The fgOTN technology is a small-granularity hard pipe system derived from the OTN standard, offering secure, isolated data transmission through rigid hard pipe channels. This architecture boosts bandwidth efficiency and ensures reliable, high-performance communications, meeting both current and future demands of African power networks.

    The white paper outlines how power communication networks should be:

    • Fully automated
    • Digitalised and intelligentised
    • Able to support centralised, unattended operations
    • Optimised for enterprise digital workflows and market-based transactions

    These capabilities will significantly enhance the sector’s ability to observe, control, and manage grid systems in real time.

    Industry Support and Technical Leadership

    Luo Xin, Optical Product Director at Huawei Southern Africa Region, stated:

    “fgOTN is a new ITU-T-defined technology that inherits the safety and stability of SDH and adds the scalability and intelligence of OTN. It’s tailor-made for the power industry. In April, CIGRE established the D2.65 working group to explore its application in the energy sector. With this white paper, we aim to empower African utilities to embrace fgOTN as a core enabler of smart grid communications.”

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Vuka Group.

    Download the fgOTN White Paper for Electric Power:
    https://apo-opa.co/4lsEwJ7

    Contact our sales team to position your smart solution:
    https://apo-opa.co/3Tk10jM

    Visit the Huawei website for more information:
    https://apo-opa.co/4lsEwJ7

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Hydrogen Growth, Water Risk – Can Africa Balance Both?

    Free Live Webinar Hosted by ESI Africa
    Reserve My Seat Now (https://apo-opa.co/45OsWDH)

    As Africa positions itself to lead in the green hydrogen economy, one vital resource sits at the centre of this transformation: water.

    Green hydrogen production via electrolysis requires large quantities of water — a pressing challenge on a continent where water scarcity already threatens communities, agriculture, and industry.

    Join ESI Africa for a live webinar unpacking the complex connection between hydrogen development and water resource management across Africa. This session will explore the opportunities, trade-offs, and innovations shaping the continent’s sustainable hydrogen future.

    What You’ll Learn:

    • The water intensity of green hydrogen — and what it means for Africa
    • Technologies enabling hydrogen production with minimal freshwater use
    • Planning and policy tools to align hydrogen development with water sustainability
    • Africa’s potential to lead a balanced, green hydrogen economy

    Secure your seat now – space is limited (https://apo-opa.co/45OsWDH)

    Why Attend?

    This is a critical conversation for energy planners, water authorities, hydrogen developers, policymakers, and anyone working at the intersection of Africa’s energy and environmental future. Learn how Africa can scale hydrogen without compromising water security.

    Date: 24 July 2025
    Time: 14:00–15:00 (SAST)
    Format: Free Virtual Webinar
    Registration Link: https://apo-opa.co/45OsWDH

    Readers can also read more about the webinar here: https://apo-opa.co/4nsa2J3

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Vuka Group.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China Coast Guard Conducts Law Enforcement Patrol in Waters Around Huangyan Island /more details/

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, June 30 (Xinhua) — The China Coast Guard (CCG) on Monday conducted law enforcement patrols in the territorial waters around Huangyan Dao Island and its surrounding areas.

    In its statement, the BOC said it had continuously strengthened patrols in the territorial waters around Huangyan Dao Island and its adjacent areas in June, conducting tracking and monitoring, verbal warning, interception and expulsion operations in accordance with laws and regulations.

    As the BOC emphasized, these steps were aimed at strengthening governance and control in the relevant maritime areas, and firmly protecting China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A student of the State University of Management became the author of the best startup in Russia: the results of the All-Russian competition “Startup as a Diploma” have been announced

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    On June 27, 2025, the final of the All-Russian competition of final qualification works in the format “Startup as a Diploma” was held at the National Center “Russia”, the winner of which was a student of the State University of Management.

    The author of the best startup in Russia, a 4th-year student of the Institute of Industry Management of the State University of Management of the educational program “Small and Medium Business Management” Danila Yakovlev, has developed a glass processing technology that allows obtaining a finished product for sale – glass pebbles. The project “

    The Minister of Science and Higher Education Valery Falkov, the Deputy Minister of Science and Higher Education Olga Petrova and the Deputy Director of the Department of State Youth Policy and Educational Activities of the Ministry of Education and Science Alexander Vedekhin, as well as the First Deputy Chair of the Committee on Science and Higher Education of the State Duma Ksenia Goryacheva addressed the young entrepreneurs and guests of the event with welcoming words.

    Our student’s performance did not leave the members of the expert jury indifferent – following the results of the final pitches, Danila Yakovlev became the absolute winner of the competition and took 1st place. In addition, he received a special prize from the Moscow School of Management “Skolkovo”, a certificate for participation in the acceleration program “Academy of Innovators” and other gifts from the competition partners. The scientific director of the project Victoria Degtyareva received special gratitude.

    Only 14 finalists presented their innovative ideas to the expert jury. The podium of honor looks like this:
    1st place – startup “Innovative glass pebbles”#Proesklo “, State University of Management;
    2nd place – startup “Automated irrigation system – Control’s”, Russian State Agrarian University – MSCHA named after K.A. Timiryazeva;
    3rd place – Startup Recyclix – plastic processing, Far Eastern Federal University.

    The event brought together over 400 participants – students from different regions of Russia, experts, entrepreneurs, industry representatives, universities and government bodies. The hosts were Olga Serebryannikova, Director of the Project Office for the Development of Youth Entrepreneurship in Higher Education Institutions, and Andrey Goryachev, a finalist of the 2024 Startup as a Diploma competition. The young entrepreneurs and guests of the event were addressed with welcoming speeches by the Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation Valery Falkov, First Deputy Chairperson of the Committee on Science and Higher Education of the State Duma of the Russian Federation Ksenia Goryacheva, Deputy Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation Olga Petrova and Deputy Director of the Department of State Youth Policy and Educational Activities of the Ministry of Education and Science of Russia Alexander Vedekhin.

    The final became an important part of the large-scale joint work of university teams, mentors and partners in the development of youth entrepreneurship. Students and employees of the State University of Management, including his scientific supervisor, Associate Professor of the Department of Innovation Management Victoria Degtyareva, came to support Danila at the final stage of the competition. Also on the day of the final, an exhibition of the TOP-50 projects of the Startup as a Diploma competition of 2025 was held at the site of the National Center “Russia”, where one could get acquainted with another innovative development of the State University of Management – the project of the Business Incubator resident Mikhail Zorin HolterTECH (a wireless Holter designed to monitor the work of the heart), which was also highly appreciated by the experts of the competition this year.

    We asked Danila Yakovlev for details about his project.

    «

    What is unique about your product and what advantages does it provide? — The technology itself is not unique, but for some reason large businesses do not use it. Construction companies tried to make materials cheaper with this technology, but we transferred the product to another industry where people are willing to pay for beauty and comfort. In addition, we were able to significantly reduce the time and labor costs of the processing process, which allows us to save on electricity and human resources. Plus, given the integration into an existing business, our raw material cost is negative, that is, the waste generator pays us to take this glass from them. It should also be added that the production line can fit on 100 square meters, and only two operators can control it. In terms of numbers, this is a very promising project.

    What investments will be required to fully launch the project? – We have outlined several stages of investment. At the first stage, we will need 3.5 million rubles to purchase equipment to complete the first line, launch and adjust the process.

    What difficulties do you face in the process of project implementation and how do you overcome them? — The main problem today is that I have 24 hours in a day, like everyone else. I understand that all entrepreneurs are busy people. Every hour is not that expensive, but it is very valuable. Sometimes there is simply not enough time to sleep or spend time with family. In addition, unemployment in Russia is now extremely low, everyone works somewhere, but for some reason no one wants to here. Fortunately, there are young ambitious students who are eager to work not for money, but for the sake of prospects. And in general, you can’t say “problems”. There are tasks that need to be solved. And there are dreams. I invite everyone to achieve them together. We now need a warehouse manager, even a young one with no experience, we need simple warehouse employees, sales managers. We need everyone. If you want, we will accept everyone. We have a lot of ideas, we have an agreement with the State University of Management and students can do paid internships with us. I think together we can build a cool future.

    How do you see the future?

    The full interview with Danila Yakovlev will soon be available on the GUU channel on RuTube.

    We are posting Danila’s contact on Telegram for those who would like to join his project or do an internship: https://t.me/yakovleff_dan

     

    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 United Nations: World Bank Group and IAEA Sign Partnership

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)

    The IAEA and The World Bank announced a partnership today to support the safe, secure and responsible use of nuclear energy in developing countries. 

    This partnership agreement, signed by IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi and World Bank Group President Ajay Banga, marks the World Bank Group’s first concrete step to reengage with nuclear power in decades. 

    Our organizations will work together in three key areas: 

    ➡️ Expand the World Bank Group’s understanding of nuclear 

    ➡️ Extend the lifespan of existing nuclear power plants 

    ➡️ Accelerate the development of small modular reactors With electricity demand in developing countries expected to more than double by 2030, this collaboration will support nuclear as part of a clean energy future.

    With electricity demand in developing countries expected to more than double by 2030, this collaboration will support nuclear as part of a clean energy future.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Attorney general’s statement on inquiry into event safety

    Niki Sharma, Attorney General, has released the following statement about the Commission of Inquiry into Community Events Safety in B.C.

    “On Saturday, April 26, 2025, British Columbia experienced one of the worst moments in our history, when a senseless act of violence turned a Lapu-Lapu Day celebration into a tragedy that left 11 people dead and countless more injured and traumatized.

    “In the aftermath, British Columbians understandably raised questions about enhancing public safety so people can feel safe attending and celebrating community events of all sizes this summer. That is why Premier David Eby commissioned a public inquiry into safety at community events, with recommendations to be delivered by June 30, 2025.

    “The commission was established to examine and report on ways to strengthen security and safety at community events. It was tasked with providing practical information and recommendations to event organizers, local governments and public safety officials.

    “I am pleased to have received the report from the commissioner of inquiry into community events safety in B.C., Christopher E. Hinkson. The report will be presented to cabinet in the coming days, in accordance with the Public Inquiry Act. Following cabinet’s review, the report will be filed with the clerk of the legislative assembly and made available to the public.

    “I thank Commissioner Hinkson for the work he and his team have done over the past six weeks to enhance and protect our right to gather and celebrate safely and ensure that fear does not prevent communities from coming together.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Corn planted acreage up 5% from 2024, soybean acreage down 4% from last year

    Source: US National Agricultural Statistics Service

    WASHINGTON, June 30, 2025 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) estimated 95.2 million acres of corn planted in the United States for 2025, up 5% from last year, according to the Acreage report released today. Soybean area planted is estimated at 83.4 million acres, down 4% from last year.

    Following up on the Prospective Plantings report released in March, NASS surveyed approximately 67,700 farm operators during the first two weeks of June to gather information on what farmers actually planted. Key findings released in the Acreage report include:

    Corn

    • Growers expect to harvest 86.8 million acres of corn for grain, up 5% from 2024.
    • Ninety-four percent of all corn acres planted in the United States are biotech varieties, the same as 2024.

    Soybeans

    • Soybean harvested area for 2025 is estimated at 82.5 million acres, down 4% from last year.
    • Producers planted 96% of the soybean acreage using herbicide resistant seed varieties, the same as 2024.

    Cotton

    • All cotton planted area for 2025 is estimated at 10.1 million acres, 10% below 2024.
    • Upland cotton planted is estimated at 9.95 million acres, down 9% from last year.
    • American Pima planted area is estimated at 171,000 acres, down 17% from 2024.
    • Ninety-seven percent of Upland cotton planted acres are biotech varieties, up 1% from last year.

    Wheat

    • All wheat planted area for 2025 is estimated at 45.5 million acres, down 1% from last year.
    • Winter wheat planted area is estimated at 33.3 million acres, down less than 1% from 2024.
    • Other spring wheat planted area is estimated at 10.0 million acres, down 5% from 2024.
    • Durum wheat planted area is estimated at 2.11 million acres, up 2% from last year.

    Today, NASS also released the quarterly Grain Stocks and Rice Stocks reports to provide estimates of on-farm and off-farm stocks as of June 1. Key findings in those reports include:

    Grain Stocks

    • Corn stocks totaled 4.64 billion bushels, down 7% from the same time last year.
    • On-farm corn stocks were down 16% from a year ago, and off-farm stocks were up 6%.
    • Soybeans stored totaled 1.01 billion bushels, up 4% from June 1, 2024.
    • On-farm soybean stocks were down 12% from a year ago, while off-farm stocks were up 18%.
    • All wheat stored totaled 851 million bushels, up 22% from a year ago.
    • On-farm all wheat stocks were up 32% from last year, while off-farm stocks were up 20%.
    • Durum wheat stored totaled 27.9 million bushels, up 32% from June 1, 2024.
    • On-farm stocks of Durum wheat were up 41% from June 1, 2024.
    • Off-farm stocks of Durum wheat were up 25% from a year earlier.

    Grain Stocks

    • Rough rice stocks totaled 69.7 million hundredweight, up 15% from June 1, 2024.
    • On-farm rice stocks were up 94% from a year ago, while off-farm stocks were up 7%.
    • Long grain rice varieties accounted for 69% of the total rough rice, medium grain accounted for 30%, and short grain varieties accounted for 1%.
    • Milled rice stocks totaled 6.09 million hundredweight, up 26% from a year ago.
    • Milled rice stocks were comprised of 4.01 million hundredweight of whole kernel rice and 2.08 million hundredweight of second heads, screenings, and brewers rice.

    All NASS reports are available online at nass.usda.gov/publicationsnass.usda.gov/publications. Join NASS’s Lance Honig for a live Stat Chat about the Acreage, Grain Stocks, and Rice Stocks reports @usda_nass on X at 1:30 p.m. ET today. Have a question about the report? Ask any time with #StatChat in your question.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Midway Man Sentenced for Engaging in Sexual Relationship with Inmate

    Source: US FBI

    TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Kerontrez Lamar Kenon, 23, of Midway, Florida, was sentenced to one year in prison after previously pleading guilty to engaging in a sexual relationship with a ward. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

    According to court records, Kenon was employed as a correctional officer at Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) Tallahassee during June and July 2023, when he engaged in sexual intercourse with a female inmate who was under his custodial authority. Kenon also brought the inmate cigarettes and food, against regulations, and helped the inmate set up a CashApp so that other inmates could pay her for cigarettes. At the time that the inmate reported the incident, Kenon was no longer employed by FCI Tallahassee. Kenon’s prison sentence will be followed by five years’ supervised release.

    U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “A correctional officer’s abuse of his position is intolerable.  My office will work with our federal partners to vigorously investigate and prosecute any officer who violates their oath through the abuse of inmates entrusted to their care and custody.”

    “No inmate should ever experience sexual abuse or mistreatment of any kind by those responsible for their safety and custody. The Office of the Inspector General is committed to holding violators accountable and seeking justice for these victims of exploitation,” said Eric Fehlman, Special Agent in Charge of the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General Southeast Region.

    “The FBI will stop at nothing to seek justice for victims of crime, including inmates who suffer abuse while housed in corrections facilities,” Jason Carley, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Jacksonville Division. “This case is even more egregious, having been committed by someone who was in a position of authority. Our investigators will continue to work tirelessly in coordination with our law enforcement partners to identify those who violate their oath to protect and serve.”

    The conviction and sentence were the result of a joint investigation by the Department of Justice Office of Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Meredith L. Steer.

    The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man Charged with Murder on the Uintah and Ouray Reservation

    Source: US FBI

    The FBI, along with the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Uintah County Sheriff’s Office, are investigating the homicide of an adult male from Vernal, Utah. The incident happened in the Whiterocks community, on the Uinta and Ouray Indian Reservation on June 26, 2025.

    Leroy Casper Poowegup Reed, an enrolled member of the Ute Indian Tribe, was taken into tribal custody. A federal arrest warrant has been issued for Reed, who is charged by criminal complaint with murder in the second-degree while within Indian Country.

    According to the complaint, a deceased individual was found in a running vehicle with an arrow impaled in his neck. Further investigation by the BIA and Uintah County Sheriff’s Office led to Reed, who was arrested at his residence in the Whiterocks community.

    A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Barclays Bank PLC: Launch of accelerated placing of shares in InPost

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONDON, June 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN WHOLE OR IN PART, INTO OR IN THE UNITED STATES, CANADA, AUSTRALIA, SOUTH AFRICA OR JAPAN OR ANY OTHER JURISDICTION IN WHICH OFFERS OR SALES WOULD BE PROHIBITED BY APPLICABLE LAW. THIS ANNOUNCEMENT DOES NOT CONSTITUTE OR FORM AN OFFER FOR SALE OF, OR THE SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO BUY, THE SECURITIES REFERRED TO HEREIN IN ANY JURISDICTION, INCLUDING THE UNITED STATES, CANADA, AUSTRALIA, SOUTH AFRICA, JAPAN OR ANY OTHER JURISDICTION IN WHICH OFFERS OR SALES WOULD BE PROHIBITED BY APPLICABLE LAW.

    PLEASE SEE THE IMPORTANT NOTICE AT THE END OF THIS ANNOUNCEMENT. 

    30 June 2025

    AI Prime & Cy S.C.A. announces the launch of an accelerated placing of shares in InPost S.A.

    AI Prime & Cy S.C.A. (“AI Prime”), an Advent International company, has launched an accelerated placing (the “Placing”) of c. 17.5 million ordinary shares of InPost S.A. (the “Company”) representing c. 3.5% of the Company’s existing share capital.

    The Placing is addressed to certain eligible institutional investors only, with final terms to be determined through an accelerated bookbuilding process.

    The books for the Placing will open with immediate effect. Pricing and allocations are expected to be announced as soon as practicable following the closing of the books.

    As part of the transaction, remaining shares in the Company held by AI Prime will be subject to a 60 day lock up period from the Placing settlement date, subject to customary exemptions.

    Barclays Bank PLC is acting as Sole Global Co-ordinator and Bookrunner on the Placing.

    The Company will not receive any proceeds from the Placing.

    IMPORTANT NOTICE

    THIS ANNOUNCEMENT AND THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER TO SELL OR THE SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO BUY ANY OF THESE SECURITIES IN THE UNITED STATES, CANADA, AUSTRALIA, SOUTH AFRICA, JAPAN OR ANY OTHER JURISDICTION IN WHICH SUCH OFFER, SOLICITATION OR SALE WOULD BE UNLAWFUL PRIOR TO REGISTRATION OR QUALIFICATION UNDER THE SECURITIES LAWS OF ANY SUCH JURISDICTION. THE SECURITIES MAY NOT BE OFFERED OR SOLD IN THE UNITED STATES ABSENT REGISTRATION OR AN APPLICABLE EXEMPTION FROM UNITED STATES REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS. NO PUBLIC OFFER OF SECURITIES IS TO BE MADE IN THE UNITED STATES AND NEITHER THIS ANNOUNCEMENT NOR ANY COPY OF IT MAY BE TAKEN, TRANSMITTED OR DISTRIBUTED, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN OR INTO OR FROM THE UNITED STATES (INCLUDING ITS TERRITORIES AND POSSESSIONS, ANY STATE OF THE UNITED STATES AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA), CANADA, SOUTH AFRICA OR JAPAN. ANY FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THIS RESTRICTION MAY CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF UNITED STATES, CANADIAN, SOUTH AFRICAN OR JAPANESE SECURITIES LAWS.

    THIS ANNOUNCEMENT AND ANY OFFER OF SHARES PURSUANT TO THE PLACING (“PLACING SHARES“) IF MADE SUBSEQUENTLY ARE ONLY ADDRESSED TO AND DIRECTED AT PERSONS (1) IN THE EEA WHO ARE QUALIFIED INVESTORS WITHIN THE MEANING OF REGULATION (EU) 2017/1129 (THE “PROSPECTUS REGULATION“) AND (2) IN THE UNITED KINGDOM, WHO ARE QUALIFIED INVESTORS WITHIN THE MEANING OF THE PROSPECTUS REGULATION AS IT FORMS PART OF DOMESTIC LAW BY VIRTUE OF THE EUROPEAN UNION (WITHDRAWAL) ACT 2018 AND WHO HAVE PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE IN MATTERS RELATING TO INVESTMENTS WHO FALL WITHIN ARTICLE 19(5) OF THE FINANCIAL SERVICES AND MARKETS ACT 2000 (FINANCIAL PROMOTION) ORDER 2005 (AS AMENDED, THE “ORDER“) OR ARE HIGH NET WORTH ENTITIES FALLING WITHIN ARTICLE 49(2)(A) TO (D) OF THE ORDER OR ARE PERSONS TO WHOM AN OFFER OF THE PLACING SHARES MAY OTHERWISE BE LAWFULLY COMMUNICATED (ALL SUCH PERSONS BEING REFERRED TO AS “RELEVANT PERSONS“). PERSONS WHO ARE NOT RELEVANT PERSONS SHOULD NOT TAKE ANY ACTION ON THE BASIS OF THIS ANNOUNCEMENT AND SHOULD NOT ACT OR RELY ON IT.

    THE SECURITIES REFERRED TO HEREIN WILL BE OFFERED (I) WITHIN THE UNITED STATES ONLY TO A LIMITED NUMBER OF QUALIFIED INSTITUTIONAL BUYERS AS DEFINED IN RULE 144A UNDER THE U.S. SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED (THE “SECURITIES ACT“) PURSUANT TO AN EXEMPTION FROM, OR IN TRANSACTIONS NOT SUBJECT TO, THE REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECURITIES ACT, AND (II) OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES IN RELIANCE ON REGULATION S UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT, IN EACH CASE SUBJECT TO PREVAILING MARKET AND OTHER CONDITIONS. THERE IS NO ASSURANCE THAT THE PLACING WILL BE COMPLETED, OR IF COMPLETED, AS TO THE TERMS ON WHICH IT IS COMPLETED. THE SECURITIES REFERRED TO HEREIN HAVE NOT BEEN AND WILL NOT BE REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT AND MAY NOT BE OFFERED OR SOLD IN THE UNITED STATES WITHOUT REGISTRATION THEREUNDER OR UNLESS PURSUANT TO AN AVAILABLE EXEMPTION THEREFROM. NEITHER THIS DOCUMENT NOR THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN CONSTITUTES OR FORMS PART OF AN OFFER TO SELL, OR THE SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO BUY, SECURITIES IN THE UNITED STATES. THERE WILL BE NO PUBLIC OFFER OF ANY SECURITIES IN THE UNITED STATES OR ANY OTHER JURISDICTION.

    THIS ANNOUNCEMENT DOES NOT, AND SHALL NOT, IN ANY CIRCUMSTANCES CONSTITUTE A PUBLIC OFFERING, NOR AN OFFER TO SELL OR TO SUBSCRIBE, NOR A SOLICITATION TO OFFER TO PURCHASE OR TO SUBSCRIBE SECURITIES IN ANY JURISDICTION. THE DISTRIBUTION OF THIS ANNOUNCEMENT AND THE OFFERING OR SALE OF THE SECURITIES IN CERTAIN JURISDICTIONS MAY BE RESTRICTED BY LAW. NO ACTION HAS BEEN TAKEN BY AI PRIME, BARCLAYS BANK PLC (THE “GLOBAL CO-ORDINATOR“) OR ANY OF THEIR RESPECTIVE AFFILIATES THAT WOULD, OR WHICH IS INTENDED TO, PERMIT A PUBLIC OFFER OF THE SECURITIES IN ANY JURISDICTION OR POSSESSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF THIS ANNOUNCEMENT OR ANY OTHER OFFERING OR PUBLICITY MATERIAL RELATING TO THE SECURITIES IN ANY JURISDICTION WHERE ACTION FOR THAT PURPOSE IS REQUIRED. PERSONS INTO WHOSE POSSESSION THIS ANNOUNCEMENT COMES ARE REQUIRED BY AI PRIME AND THE GLOBAL CO-ORDINATOR TO INFORM THEMSELVES ABOUT AND TO OBSERVE ANY APPLICABLE RESTRICTIONS.

    NO PROSPECTUS OR OFFERING DOCUMENT HAS BEEN OR WILL BE PREPARED IN CONNECTION WITH THE PLACING. ANY INVESTMENT DECISION IN CONNECTION WITH THE PLACING MUST BE MADE SOLELY ON THE BASIS OF PUBLICLY AVAILABLE INFORMATION RELATING TO THE COMPANY AND ITS SHARES. SUCH INFORMATION HAS NOT BEEN INDEPENDENTLY VERIFIED AND AI PRIME AND THE GLOBAL CO-ORDINATOR ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE, AND EXPRESSLY DISCLAIM ANY LIABILITY, FOR SUCH INFORMATION. THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS ANNOUNCEMENT IS FOR BACKGROUND PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT PURPORT TO BE FULL OR COMPLETE. NO RELIANCE MAY BE PLACED FOR ANY PURPOSE ON THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS ANNOUNCEMENT OR ON ITS ACCURACY OR COMPLETENESS.

    IN CONNECTION WITH THE PLACING, THE GLOBAL CO-ORDINATOR OR ANY OF ITS AFFILIATES MAY TAKE UP A PORTION OF THE PLACING SHARES AS A PRINCIPAL POSITION AND IN THAT CAPACITY MAY RETAIN, PURCHASE, SELL OR OFFER TO SELL FOR ITS OWN ACCOUNT SUCH PLACING SHARES AND OTHER SECURITIES OF THE COMPANY OR RELATED INVESTMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH THE PLACING OR OTHERWISE. ACCORDINGLY, REFERENCES TO THE PLACING SHARES BEING OFFERED, ACQUIRED, PLACED OR OTHERWISE DEALT IN SHOULD BE READ AS INCLUDING ANY OFFER TO, OR ACQUISITION, PLACING OR DEALING BY THE GLOBAL CO-ORDINATOR AND ANY OF ITS AFFILIATES ACTING AS INVESTORS FOR THEIR OWN ACCOUNTS. THE GLOBAL CO-ORDINATOR DOES NOT INTEND TO DISCLOSE THE EXTENT OF ANY SUCH INVESTMENT OR TRANSACTIONS OTHERWISE THAN IN ACCORDANCE WITH ANY LEGAL OR REGULATORY OBLIGATIONS TO DO SO.

    THIS ANNOUNCEMENT DOES NOT PURPORT TO IDENTIFY OR SUGGEST THE RISKS (DIRECT OR INDIRECT) WHICH MAY BE ASSOCIATED WITH AN INVESTMENT IN THE COMPANY OR ITS SHARES.

    THIS ANNOUNCEMENT DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A RECOMMENDATION CONCERNING THE PLACING. THE PRICE AND VALUE OF SECURITIES AND ANY INCOME FROM THEM CAN GO DOWN AS WELL AS UP. PAST PERFORMANCE IS NOT A GUIDE TO FUTURE PERFORMANCE. ACQUIRING PLACING SHARES TO WHICH THIS ANNOUNCEMENT RELATES MAY EXPOSE AN INVESTOR TO A SIGNIFICANT RISK OF LOSING ALL OF THE AMOUNT INVESTED. POTENTIAL INVESTORS SHOULD CONSULT A PROFESSIONAL ADVISOR AS TO THE SUITABILITY OF THE PLACING FOR THE ENTITY OR PERSON CONCERNED. THIS ANNOUNCEMENT DOES NOT REPRESENT THE ANNOUNCEMENT OF A DEFINITIVE AGREEMENT TO PROCEED WITH THE PLACING AND, ACCORDINGLY, THERE CAN BE NO CERTAINTY THAT THE PLACING WILL PROCEED. AI PRIME RESERVES THE RIGHT NOT TO PROCEED WITH THE PLACING OR TO VARY THE TERMS OF THE PLACING IN ANY WAY.

    BARCLAYS BANK PLC IS AUTHORISED IN THE UNITED KINGDOM BY THE PRUDENTIAL REGULATION AUTHORITY AND REGULATED BY THE FINANCIAL CONDUCT AUTHORITY AND THE PRUDENTIAL REGULATION AUTHORITY.  THE GLOBAL CO-ORDINATOR IS ACTING FOR AI PRIME AND NO-ONE ELSE IN CONNECTION WITH THE PLACING. NEITHER THE GLOBAL CO-ORDINATOR NOR ANY OF ITS AFFILIATES, NOR THEIR RESPECTIVE PARTNERS, DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES OR AGENTS WILL REGARD ANY OTHER PERSON AS A CLIENT IN CONNECTION WITH THE PLACING AND THEY WILL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE TO ANYONE OTHER THAN AI PRIME FOR PROVIDING THE PROTECTIONS AFFORDED TO THEIR RESPECTIVE CLIENTS OR FOR PROVIDING ADVICE IN CONNECTION WITH THE PLACING DESCRIBED IN THIS ANNOUNCEMENT OR FOR ANY OTHER MATTERS REFERRED TO HEREIN.

    CERTAIN FIGURES CONTAINED IN THIS ANNOUNCEMENT HAVE BEEN SUBJECT TO ROUNDING ADJUSTMENTS. ACCORDINGLY, IN CERTAIN INSTANCES, THE SUM OR PERCENTAGE CHANGE OF THE NUMBERS CONTAINED IN THIS ANNOUNCEMENT MAY NOT CONFORM EXACTLY WITH THE TOTAL FIGURE GIVEN.

    THIS ANNOUNCEMENT INCLUDES STATEMENTS THAT ARE, OR MAY BE DEEMED TO BE, FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS. THESE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS MAY BE IDENTIFIED BY THE USE OF FORWARD-LOOKING TERMINOLOGY, INCLUDING THE TERMS “INTENDS”, “EXPECTS”, “WILL”, OR “MAY”, OR, IN EACH CASE, THEIR NEGATIVE OR OTHER VARIATIONS OR COMPARABLE TERMINOLOGY, OR BY DISCUSSIONS OF STRATEGY, PLANS, OBJECTIVES, GOALS, FUTURE EVENTS OR INTENTIONS. THESE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS INCLUDE ALL MATTERS THAT ARE NOT HISTORICAL FACTS AND INCLUDE STATEMENTS REGARDING INTENTIONS, BELIEFS OR CURRENT EXPECTATIONS. NO ASSURANCES CAN BE GIVEN THAT THE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS IN THIS ANNOUNCEMENT WILL BE REALISED. AS A RESULT, NO UNDUE RELIANCE SHOULD BE PLACED ON THESE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS AS A PREDICTION OF ACTUAL EVENTS OR OTHERWISE.

    This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Barclays Bank PLC: Launch of accelerated placing of shares in InPost

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONDON, June 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN WHOLE OR IN PART, INTO OR IN THE UNITED STATES, CANADA, AUSTRALIA, SOUTH AFRICA OR JAPAN OR ANY OTHER JURISDICTION IN WHICH OFFERS OR SALES WOULD BE PROHIBITED BY APPLICABLE LAW. THIS ANNOUNCEMENT DOES NOT CONSTITUTE OR FORM AN OFFER FOR SALE OF, OR THE SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO BUY, THE SECURITIES REFERRED TO HEREIN IN ANY JURISDICTION, INCLUDING THE UNITED STATES, CANADA, AUSTRALIA, SOUTH AFRICA, JAPAN OR ANY OTHER JURISDICTION IN WHICH OFFERS OR SALES WOULD BE PROHIBITED BY APPLICABLE LAW.

    PLEASE SEE THE IMPORTANT NOTICE AT THE END OF THIS ANNOUNCEMENT. 

    30 June 2025

    AI Prime & Cy S.C.A. announces the launch of an accelerated placing of shares in InPost S.A.

    AI Prime & Cy S.C.A. (“AI Prime”), an Advent International company, has launched an accelerated placing (the “Placing”) of c. 17.5 million ordinary shares of InPost S.A. (the “Company”) representing c. 3.5% of the Company’s existing share capital.

    The Placing is addressed to certain eligible institutional investors only, with final terms to be determined through an accelerated bookbuilding process.

    The books for the Placing will open with immediate effect. Pricing and allocations are expected to be announced as soon as practicable following the closing of the books.

    As part of the transaction, remaining shares in the Company held by AI Prime will be subject to a 60 day lock up period from the Placing settlement date, subject to customary exemptions.

    Barclays Bank PLC is acting as Sole Global Co-ordinator and Bookrunner on the Placing.

    The Company will not receive any proceeds from the Placing.

    IMPORTANT NOTICE

    THIS ANNOUNCEMENT AND THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER TO SELL OR THE SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO BUY ANY OF THESE SECURITIES IN THE UNITED STATES, CANADA, AUSTRALIA, SOUTH AFRICA, JAPAN OR ANY OTHER JURISDICTION IN WHICH SUCH OFFER, SOLICITATION OR SALE WOULD BE UNLAWFUL PRIOR TO REGISTRATION OR QUALIFICATION UNDER THE SECURITIES LAWS OF ANY SUCH JURISDICTION. THE SECURITIES MAY NOT BE OFFERED OR SOLD IN THE UNITED STATES ABSENT REGISTRATION OR AN APPLICABLE EXEMPTION FROM UNITED STATES REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS. NO PUBLIC OFFER OF SECURITIES IS TO BE MADE IN THE UNITED STATES AND NEITHER THIS ANNOUNCEMENT NOR ANY COPY OF IT MAY BE TAKEN, TRANSMITTED OR DISTRIBUTED, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN OR INTO OR FROM THE UNITED STATES (INCLUDING ITS TERRITORIES AND POSSESSIONS, ANY STATE OF THE UNITED STATES AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA), CANADA, SOUTH AFRICA OR JAPAN. ANY FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THIS RESTRICTION MAY CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF UNITED STATES, CANADIAN, SOUTH AFRICAN OR JAPANESE SECURITIES LAWS.

    THIS ANNOUNCEMENT AND ANY OFFER OF SHARES PURSUANT TO THE PLACING (“PLACING SHARES“) IF MADE SUBSEQUENTLY ARE ONLY ADDRESSED TO AND DIRECTED AT PERSONS (1) IN THE EEA WHO ARE QUALIFIED INVESTORS WITHIN THE MEANING OF REGULATION (EU) 2017/1129 (THE “PROSPECTUS REGULATION“) AND (2) IN THE UNITED KINGDOM, WHO ARE QUALIFIED INVESTORS WITHIN THE MEANING OF THE PROSPECTUS REGULATION AS IT FORMS PART OF DOMESTIC LAW BY VIRTUE OF THE EUROPEAN UNION (WITHDRAWAL) ACT 2018 AND WHO HAVE PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE IN MATTERS RELATING TO INVESTMENTS WHO FALL WITHIN ARTICLE 19(5) OF THE FINANCIAL SERVICES AND MARKETS ACT 2000 (FINANCIAL PROMOTION) ORDER 2005 (AS AMENDED, THE “ORDER“) OR ARE HIGH NET WORTH ENTITIES FALLING WITHIN ARTICLE 49(2)(A) TO (D) OF THE ORDER OR ARE PERSONS TO WHOM AN OFFER OF THE PLACING SHARES MAY OTHERWISE BE LAWFULLY COMMUNICATED (ALL SUCH PERSONS BEING REFERRED TO AS “RELEVANT PERSONS“). PERSONS WHO ARE NOT RELEVANT PERSONS SHOULD NOT TAKE ANY ACTION ON THE BASIS OF THIS ANNOUNCEMENT AND SHOULD NOT ACT OR RELY ON IT.

    THE SECURITIES REFERRED TO HEREIN WILL BE OFFERED (I) WITHIN THE UNITED STATES ONLY TO A LIMITED NUMBER OF QUALIFIED INSTITUTIONAL BUYERS AS DEFINED IN RULE 144A UNDER THE U.S. SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED (THE “SECURITIES ACT“) PURSUANT TO AN EXEMPTION FROM, OR IN TRANSACTIONS NOT SUBJECT TO, THE REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECURITIES ACT, AND (II) OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES IN RELIANCE ON REGULATION S UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT, IN EACH CASE SUBJECT TO PREVAILING MARKET AND OTHER CONDITIONS. THERE IS NO ASSURANCE THAT THE PLACING WILL BE COMPLETED, OR IF COMPLETED, AS TO THE TERMS ON WHICH IT IS COMPLETED. THE SECURITIES REFERRED TO HEREIN HAVE NOT BEEN AND WILL NOT BE REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT AND MAY NOT BE OFFERED OR SOLD IN THE UNITED STATES WITHOUT REGISTRATION THEREUNDER OR UNLESS PURSUANT TO AN AVAILABLE EXEMPTION THEREFROM. NEITHER THIS DOCUMENT NOR THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN CONSTITUTES OR FORMS PART OF AN OFFER TO SELL, OR THE SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO BUY, SECURITIES IN THE UNITED STATES. THERE WILL BE NO PUBLIC OFFER OF ANY SECURITIES IN THE UNITED STATES OR ANY OTHER JURISDICTION.

    THIS ANNOUNCEMENT DOES NOT, AND SHALL NOT, IN ANY CIRCUMSTANCES CONSTITUTE A PUBLIC OFFERING, NOR AN OFFER TO SELL OR TO SUBSCRIBE, NOR A SOLICITATION TO OFFER TO PURCHASE OR TO SUBSCRIBE SECURITIES IN ANY JURISDICTION. THE DISTRIBUTION OF THIS ANNOUNCEMENT AND THE OFFERING OR SALE OF THE SECURITIES IN CERTAIN JURISDICTIONS MAY BE RESTRICTED BY LAW. NO ACTION HAS BEEN TAKEN BY AI PRIME, BARCLAYS BANK PLC (THE “GLOBAL CO-ORDINATOR“) OR ANY OF THEIR RESPECTIVE AFFILIATES THAT WOULD, OR WHICH IS INTENDED TO, PERMIT A PUBLIC OFFER OF THE SECURITIES IN ANY JURISDICTION OR POSSESSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF THIS ANNOUNCEMENT OR ANY OTHER OFFERING OR PUBLICITY MATERIAL RELATING TO THE SECURITIES IN ANY JURISDICTION WHERE ACTION FOR THAT PURPOSE IS REQUIRED. PERSONS INTO WHOSE POSSESSION THIS ANNOUNCEMENT COMES ARE REQUIRED BY AI PRIME AND THE GLOBAL CO-ORDINATOR TO INFORM THEMSELVES ABOUT AND TO OBSERVE ANY APPLICABLE RESTRICTIONS.

    NO PROSPECTUS OR OFFERING DOCUMENT HAS BEEN OR WILL BE PREPARED IN CONNECTION WITH THE PLACING. ANY INVESTMENT DECISION IN CONNECTION WITH THE PLACING MUST BE MADE SOLELY ON THE BASIS OF PUBLICLY AVAILABLE INFORMATION RELATING TO THE COMPANY AND ITS SHARES. SUCH INFORMATION HAS NOT BEEN INDEPENDENTLY VERIFIED AND AI PRIME AND THE GLOBAL CO-ORDINATOR ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE, AND EXPRESSLY DISCLAIM ANY LIABILITY, FOR SUCH INFORMATION. THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS ANNOUNCEMENT IS FOR BACKGROUND PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT PURPORT TO BE FULL OR COMPLETE. NO RELIANCE MAY BE PLACED FOR ANY PURPOSE ON THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS ANNOUNCEMENT OR ON ITS ACCURACY OR COMPLETENESS.

    IN CONNECTION WITH THE PLACING, THE GLOBAL CO-ORDINATOR OR ANY OF ITS AFFILIATES MAY TAKE UP A PORTION OF THE PLACING SHARES AS A PRINCIPAL POSITION AND IN THAT CAPACITY MAY RETAIN, PURCHASE, SELL OR OFFER TO SELL FOR ITS OWN ACCOUNT SUCH PLACING SHARES AND OTHER SECURITIES OF THE COMPANY OR RELATED INVESTMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH THE PLACING OR OTHERWISE. ACCORDINGLY, REFERENCES TO THE PLACING SHARES BEING OFFERED, ACQUIRED, PLACED OR OTHERWISE DEALT IN SHOULD BE READ AS INCLUDING ANY OFFER TO, OR ACQUISITION, PLACING OR DEALING BY THE GLOBAL CO-ORDINATOR AND ANY OF ITS AFFILIATES ACTING AS INVESTORS FOR THEIR OWN ACCOUNTS. THE GLOBAL CO-ORDINATOR DOES NOT INTEND TO DISCLOSE THE EXTENT OF ANY SUCH INVESTMENT OR TRANSACTIONS OTHERWISE THAN IN ACCORDANCE WITH ANY LEGAL OR REGULATORY OBLIGATIONS TO DO SO.

    THIS ANNOUNCEMENT DOES NOT PURPORT TO IDENTIFY OR SUGGEST THE RISKS (DIRECT OR INDIRECT) WHICH MAY BE ASSOCIATED WITH AN INVESTMENT IN THE COMPANY OR ITS SHARES.

    THIS ANNOUNCEMENT DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A RECOMMENDATION CONCERNING THE PLACING. THE PRICE AND VALUE OF SECURITIES AND ANY INCOME FROM THEM CAN GO DOWN AS WELL AS UP. PAST PERFORMANCE IS NOT A GUIDE TO FUTURE PERFORMANCE. ACQUIRING PLACING SHARES TO WHICH THIS ANNOUNCEMENT RELATES MAY EXPOSE AN INVESTOR TO A SIGNIFICANT RISK OF LOSING ALL OF THE AMOUNT INVESTED. POTENTIAL INVESTORS SHOULD CONSULT A PROFESSIONAL ADVISOR AS TO THE SUITABILITY OF THE PLACING FOR THE ENTITY OR PERSON CONCERNED. THIS ANNOUNCEMENT DOES NOT REPRESENT THE ANNOUNCEMENT OF A DEFINITIVE AGREEMENT TO PROCEED WITH THE PLACING AND, ACCORDINGLY, THERE CAN BE NO CERTAINTY THAT THE PLACING WILL PROCEED. AI PRIME RESERVES THE RIGHT NOT TO PROCEED WITH THE PLACING OR TO VARY THE TERMS OF THE PLACING IN ANY WAY.

    BARCLAYS BANK PLC IS AUTHORISED IN THE UNITED KINGDOM BY THE PRUDENTIAL REGULATION AUTHORITY AND REGULATED BY THE FINANCIAL CONDUCT AUTHORITY AND THE PRUDENTIAL REGULATION AUTHORITY.  THE GLOBAL CO-ORDINATOR IS ACTING FOR AI PRIME AND NO-ONE ELSE IN CONNECTION WITH THE PLACING. NEITHER THE GLOBAL CO-ORDINATOR NOR ANY OF ITS AFFILIATES, NOR THEIR RESPECTIVE PARTNERS, DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES OR AGENTS WILL REGARD ANY OTHER PERSON AS A CLIENT IN CONNECTION WITH THE PLACING AND THEY WILL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE TO ANYONE OTHER THAN AI PRIME FOR PROVIDING THE PROTECTIONS AFFORDED TO THEIR RESPECTIVE CLIENTS OR FOR PROVIDING ADVICE IN CONNECTION WITH THE PLACING DESCRIBED IN THIS ANNOUNCEMENT OR FOR ANY OTHER MATTERS REFERRED TO HEREIN.

    CERTAIN FIGURES CONTAINED IN THIS ANNOUNCEMENT HAVE BEEN SUBJECT TO ROUNDING ADJUSTMENTS. ACCORDINGLY, IN CERTAIN INSTANCES, THE SUM OR PERCENTAGE CHANGE OF THE NUMBERS CONTAINED IN THIS ANNOUNCEMENT MAY NOT CONFORM EXACTLY WITH THE TOTAL FIGURE GIVEN.

    THIS ANNOUNCEMENT INCLUDES STATEMENTS THAT ARE, OR MAY BE DEEMED TO BE, FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS. THESE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS MAY BE IDENTIFIED BY THE USE OF FORWARD-LOOKING TERMINOLOGY, INCLUDING THE TERMS “INTENDS”, “EXPECTS”, “WILL”, OR “MAY”, OR, IN EACH CASE, THEIR NEGATIVE OR OTHER VARIATIONS OR COMPARABLE TERMINOLOGY, OR BY DISCUSSIONS OF STRATEGY, PLANS, OBJECTIVES, GOALS, FUTURE EVENTS OR INTENTIONS. THESE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS INCLUDE ALL MATTERS THAT ARE NOT HISTORICAL FACTS AND INCLUDE STATEMENTS REGARDING INTENTIONS, BELIEFS OR CURRENT EXPECTATIONS. NO ASSURANCES CAN BE GIVEN THAT THE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS IN THIS ANNOUNCEMENT WILL BE REALISED. AS A RESULT, NO UNDUE RELIANCE SHOULD BE PLACED ON THESE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS AS A PREDICTION OF ACTUAL EVENTS OR OTHERWISE.

    This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Qatar strongly condemns attack on military convoy in Pakistan

    Source: Government of Qatar

    Doha – June 30, 2025

    The State of Qatar expresses its strong condemnation and denunciation of the terrorist attack that targeted a military convoy in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, resulting in deaths and injuries.

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterates the States of Qatar’s stance rejecting violence, terrorism and criminal acts, regardless of their motives and causes.

    The Ministry extends the State of Qatar’s condolences to the families of the victims, as well as to the government and people of Pakistan, and wishes the injured a speedy recovery.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Qatar Expresses Full Solidarity with Sudan After Gold Mine Collapse

    Source: Government of Qatar

    Doha – June 30, 2025

    The State of Qatar expresses full solidarity with the sisterly Republic of Sudan following the collapse of a gold mine in the Howaid area, which results in multiple deaths and injuries.

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs conveys Qatar’s sincere condolences to the families of the victims, as well as to the government and people of Sudan, and wishes a swift recovery to those injured.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaine Files Amendments to Dangerous Republican Budget Megabill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Budget Committee, announced his amendments to President Donald Trump and congressional Republicans’ budget megabill in an attempt to thwart the legislation’s most catastrophic impacts. The partisan proposal—which Republicans are ramming through Congress using a legislative process that enables them to expedite it and pass it with a fewer number of votes than most Senate legislation—would slash critical funding for programs that Virginians rely on to disproportionately give tax cuts to the wealthy.

    “We should be focused on growing and supporting the middle-class, not passing Donald Trump and congressional Republicans’ Hurt People, Kill Jobs, and Spike the Debt to Reward the Rich Act,” said Kaine. “I’m filing amendments to protect Americans from some of the worst of the worst from this Administration and its partisan megabill—from safeguarding our rural hospitals and preventing Americans from losing their health insurance, to keeping families from going hungry, standing up for our veterans, and preventing energy cost increases. I’m also filing amendments to address ways this bill is uniquely bad for Virginia, including to restore funding the Richmond Water Treatment Plant desperately needs and to address the proposed transfer of the Space Shuttle Discovery from Chantilly to Houston at enormous expense to the American taxpayer. The fact that these amendments are necessary in the first place goes to show that Republicans will stop at nothing to give the wealthiest a massive tax break.”

    Kaine filed a series of amendments, including:

    • To rename the legislation the “Hurt People, Kill Jobs, and Spike the Debt to Reward the Rich Act.”
    • To protect Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) from cuts by reversing tax cuts that benefit the wealthy and large corporations.
    • To protect Virginia’s rural hospitals by mitigating changes to the Medicaid provider tax program.
    • To crack down on the Trump Administration’s mass firing of veterans from the federal workforce, by prohibiting firings of federal employee veterans without submitting a report to Congress.
    • To protect Virginians’ health care coverage by eliminating the estate tax cut for multi-millionaires.
    • To provide small businesses, farmers, and low- and moderate-income families with relief from Trump’s senseless trade wars.
    • To prevent the weakening and destruction of unions representing federal workers.
    • To require agencies to cease illegal mass firings and illegal withholdings of appropriated funding.
    • To prevent utility bill increases by blocking Republicans’ effort to create a new tax on wind and solar power and undo energy efficiency tax credits Kaine helped create through the Inflation Reduction Act.
    • To include Kaine’s bipartisan Jumpstarting Our Businesses By Supporting Students (JOBS) Act to help more Americans get good-paying jobs by allowing students to use federal Pell Grants—need-based education grants for lower-income individuals—to pay for shorter-term job training programs for the first time.
    • To restore funding for the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant program within the Federal Emergency Management Agency. BRIC grants were canceled by the Trump Administration for projects across Virginia, including a $12 million grant for the Richmond Water Treatment Plant and a $24 million grant to enhance the Lake Meade Dam in Portsmouth.
    • To prevent the transfer of the Space Shuttle Discovery from the National Air and Space Museum in Chantilly, Virginia—where it is available for viewing to the public free of charge—to Houston, Texas. The transfer would cost hundreds of millions in taxpayer dollars and force Americans to pay an admission fee to view the shuttle.
    • To align a portion of munitions procurement spending to the European Deterrence Initiative to support European partners’ capacity to provide their own national security.
    • To prevent Republicans from hiding the true cost of their bill and violating long-standing Senate rules.

    Full text of Kaine’s amendments is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Senator Baldwin Blasts Republicans’ Disastrous Budget Bill that Slashes Medicaid & SNAP, Rigs Tax Code for the Wealthy

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin

    Baldwin: “This bill will make it harder for working families to have the opportunity to get ahead. Harder for parents to get their kids health care. Harder for families to put food on the table.”

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) spoke on the Senate floor, condemning the Republicans’ budget bill, which terminates health care for 17 million of Americans, cuts food assistance programs, and increases costs for Wisconsin families – all to make room in the budget to give corporations and the wealthy unfair tax breaks.

    Over the past several months, Senator Baldwin traveled across Wisconsin talking to constituents deeply concerned about the impact the Republicans’ budget bill would have on their families and communities. Because of this bill, over 250,000 Wisconsinites will be kicked off their healthcare, and 90,000 Wisconsinites will lose some or all of their food assistance, while the top 0.1 percent of earners will receive a tax cut of more than $250,000 every year.

    A video of the speech can be is available for download here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Receives Phone Call from Greek Foreign Minister

    Source: Government of Qatar

    Doha, June 30, 2025

    HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani received a phone call on Monday from HE Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Hellenic Republic George Gerapetritis.

    The call discussed cooperation relations between the two countries and ways to support and enhance them. It also discussed the developments in the region, in addition to a number of topics of common concern.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren Asks Defense Contractors to Explain Lobbying for Tax Breaks in “Big, Beautiful Bill” at Expense of American Families

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    June 30, 2025

    Massively profitable contractors are pushing for retroactive tax break for investments already made as Congressional Republicans slash health care and food assistance for working families

    Text of Letter to Northrop Grumman (PDF) | Text of Letter to Lockheed Martin (PDF)

    Text of Letter to RTX Corporation (PDF) | Text of Letter to General Dynamics (PDF) 

    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), a member of the Senate Finance and Senate Armed Services Committees, wrote to Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, RTX Corporation, and General Dynamics, pressing them to explain their lobbying for retroactive tax breaks in Trump’s “big, beautiful bill” at the expense of working families—while already raking in huge profits. 

    In President Trump’s 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), Congressional Republicans changed the Research and Experimentation (R&E) deduction so that companies could no longer deduct the full cost of R&E expenses the year they are made. Instead, starting in 2022, companies had to write off these expenses  over five or fifteen years.  

    Now, these wealthy companies are lobbying to bring full expensing back into the tax code, and Congressional Republicans are delivering. Alongside deep cuts to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act that will cause 16 million Americans to lose their health care coverage, the Republican tax bill passed by the House of Representatives last month includes a return to same-year R&E expensing. The Senate’s proposed text of the “Big, Beautiful Bill” goes even further and includes allows R&E expensing all the way back to 2022.

    “These retroactive benefits cannot incentivize investments that have already been made – they are simply a handout to corporations for past investments. This outrageous [handout] is an insult to the millions of Americans facing threats of losing their healthcare coverage to fund tax giveaways to wealthy corporations in the Republican tax bill,” Senator Warren continued. 

    Big corporations claim that the current deduction schedule “significantly limits businesses’ ability” to invest in R&E. However, tax experts have relieved that “[t]here is no evidence that spreading out the cost of (R&E) deductions have any effect on corporations’ decision to invest in research.” 

    In fact, Lockheed Martin’s 2021 assessment of the expiration of R&E expensing determined that the financial impact on the company would “be immaterial by 2027.”

    “[G]iant, wealthy corporations do not need even larger tax breaks, especially if they come at the expense of middle-class families,” wrote Senator Warren. 

    If R&E expensing is restored, these defense contractors are set to be gifted billions in deductions (nearly $1 billion for Northrop Grumman and $500 million for Lockheed Martin) for past years’ R&E investments, all at the expense of Americans’ health care, education, food assistance, and more. 

    Senator Warren asked the companies to provide clarity on how much they would save on their taxes in 2025 if this tax break is approved and how it would affect their outlook for stock buybacks and executive compensation by July 6, 2025. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Senator Baldwin Blasts Republicans’ Disastrous Budget Bill that Slashes Medicaid & SNAP, Rigs Tax Code for the Wealthy

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin

    Baldwin: “This bill will make it harder for working families to have the opportunity to get ahead. Harder for parents to get their kids health care. Harder for families to put food on the table.”

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) spoke on the Senate floor, condemning the Republicans’ budget bill, which terminates health care for 17 million of Americans, cuts food assistance programs, and increases costs for Wisconsin families – all to make room in the budget to give corporations and the wealthy unfair tax breaks.

    Over the past several months, Senator Baldwin traveled across Wisconsin talking to constituents deeply concerned about the impact the Republicans’ budget bill would have on their families and communities. Because of this bill, over 250,000 Wisconsinites will be kicked off their healthcare, and 90,000 Wisconsinites will lose some or all of their food assistance, while the top 0.1 percent of earners will receive a tax cut of more than $250,000 every year.

    A video of the speech can be is available for download here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren Asks Congressional Tax Committee to Investigate True Size of Retroactive Tax Breaks for Billionaire Corporations

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    June 30, 2025

    “Congressional Republicans should not gut health care and food assistance for American families to pay for tax breaks for billionaire corporations, especially when those tax breaks have no conceivable purpose besides enriching President Trump’s wealthy friends.” 

    Text of Letter (PDF)

    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), a member of the Senate Finance Committee, wrote to the Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT), a nonpartisan Congressional committee dedicated to analyzing tax legislation, asking the committee to provide information on the revenue impact of giving billionaire corporations retroactive tax breaks. 

    The 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, amidst a slew of giveaways to the wealthy and big corporations, ended corporations’ ability to immediately expense research and experimentation (R&E) costs starting in 2022. Since then, companies have been required to spread out their R&E deductions over a 5-year or 15-year window, increasing their overall tax liability.

    Now, as Congressional Republicans try to pass their “Big, Beautiful Bill” to give trillions in tax breaks to billionaires and giant corporations, they have proposed restoring R&E expensing and making this tax break retroactive back to 2022. 

    “[I]t is impossible to incentivize investment decisions already made in the past. Instead, these retroactive tax cuts are likely to represent a huge, one-time cash infusion for corporations that can be used for higher executive pay or shareholder handouts in the form of buybacks and dividends,” said Senator Warren. 

    Senator Warren asked JCT to provide a breakdown, for each year from 2025 to 2034, of the revenue generated by denying corporations this retroactive tax break. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Microsoft Flight Simulator: City Update 11 spotlights US Northeast states

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Microsoft Flight Simulator: City Update 11 spotlights US Northeast states

    Plymouth: The Mayflower Pilgrims landed at Plymouth in 1620, making it one of the most important historical sites in the United States. Called “America’s Hometown,” Plymouth is located 40 miles south of Boston and is the oldest settlement in New England.

    New Jersey

    Northeastern New Jersey: Cities include Newark, Hackensack, and Paterson, all of which are members of the greater New York metropolitan area. Newark, one of the oldest cities in the United States, is renowned for its contribution to the industrial development of the country and as a modern transportation hub. Hackensack is known for its historical importance during the American Revolution where George Washington established a headquarters. Paterson became a key location in the Industrial Revolution due to the energy supplied by the Great Falls of the Passaic River, around which the city was initially constructed.

    Central Jersey: This AOI focuses on cities in the eastern portion of Central Jersey, including Elizabeth, New Brunswick, and Edison. Elizabeth was the first capital of New Jersey and is one of the state’s oldest cities. New Brunswick played an important role in the American Revolution and is an important university center. Edison (originally called Raritan Township) was named after famed American inventor Thomas Edison who established his research laboratory in the area and created several important innovations, including the incandescent light bulb and the phonograph.

    New York

    Brooklyn: Located on the western end of Long Island, Brooklyn is the most populous of the five boroughs of New York City. It lies just south of the borough of Queens and is connected to the borough of Manhattan by one tunnel and three bridges that span the East River. Brooklyn offers some of the most stunning views in all of New York City, notably of the Brooklyn Bridge, the East River, and lower Manhattan.

    Manhattan: Manhattan is one of the most renowned urban centers in the world. The smallest borough by area of the five boroughs that compose New York City, Manhattan is often cited as the capital of several global industries, including finance, media, and entertainment. Known for its iconic architecture, Manhattan is home to the tallest building in both the United States and the Western Hemisphere, One World Trade Center (1,776 feet tall), and the second tallest in the Nation and the Western Hemisphere, Central Park Tower (1,550 feet tall).

    Long Island’s East End: One of the most beautiful areas in the northeastern United States, Long Island’s East End is renowned for its pastoral landscapes, historic villages, colonial architecture, and maritime vistas. The update includes Southampton, one of the core towns of the well-known Hamptons resort area, and Montauk, the easternmost point in New York State and home to the spectacular Montauk Point Lighthouse.

    Rhode Island

    The update’s Rhode Island AOI covers all major cities in the state, including Providence, Cranston, and Warwick. Providence, established in 1636, is the capital and most populous city in the state. Providence, along with the cities of Cranston and Warwick to its south, are located along the mouth of the Providence River at the northern extremity of Narragansett Bay, which opens to the Atlantic Ocean.

    City Update 11: Northeastern United States is available FREE to all owners of Microsoft Flight Simulator. Ensure that you have the latest simulator version installed (1.38.2.0 for MSFS2020 / 1.3.23.0 for MSFS2024 / 1.3.25.0 for MSFS2024 on Windows PC – Steam as of 06/27/2025), download City Update 11, and take to the skies above the Northeastern United States!

    Microsoft Flight Simulator is available for Xbox Series X|S and PC with Xbox Game Pass, PC Game Pass, Windows, and Steam, and on Xbox One and supported mobile phones, tablets, and lower-spec PCs via Xbox Cloud Gaming. For the latest information on Microsoft Flight Simulator, stay tuned to @MSFSOfficial on Twitter. 

     

    MIL OSI Global Banks –