Category: Latin America

  • Japan halts some poultry imports from Brazil after bird flu outbreak

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Japan has suspended imports of poultry meat from the southern Brazilian city of Montenegro and live poultry from the wider state of Rio Grande do Sul following a bird flu outbreak, an official at Japan’s agriculture ministry said on Monday.

    The ban took effect on Friday after Brazil, the world’s largest chicken exporter, confirmed its first outbreak of bird flu on a poultry farm. The announcement triggered protocols for a country-wide trade ban from top buyer China and state-wide restrictions for other major consumers.

    Japan relies heavily on chicken imports from Brazil, and the spread of bird flu in Brazil could affect the meat market in Japan, where food prices are already on the rise.

    According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Japan’s self-sufficiency rate for poultry meat, including processed products, is around 65%.

    In the 2024 fiscal year, which ended on March 31, Japan imported about 429,000 metric tons of chicken meat from Brazil, accounting for nearly 70% of poultry meat imports, excluding processed items.

    “We will closely monitor the impact on domestic distribution and market conditions,” a ministry official said.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI China: Lin rolls past Pitchford in world championship debut

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

    Top-ranked Chinese Lin Shidong is aiming to carve his name as world champion after defeating English veteran Liam Pitchford at the World Table Tennis Championships on Sunday.

    Nicknamed “Stone” because his name closely resembles that word in Chinese, Lin pulled away after two close sets to win his opening game 4-0 (11-9, 12-10, 11-2, 11-9).

    “Pitch[ford] is stronger than his ranking,” said Lin of his 54th-rated rival. “When we met last time, the first two sets were also closely-contested, with only two points separating us. He is quick on feet, aggressive and has great serves. I had imagined a tough game against him and prepared very well.”

    Making his world championship debut, Lin admitted his ultimate goal was the top of the podium as he was seeking redemption following his World Cup final loss last month. “A world title plus No. 1 ranking will make a true champion,” he said.

    Brazil’s world No. 3 Hugo Calderano, who had beaten Lin on his way to winning the World Cup, made it to the second round after beating Mexico’s Rogelio Castro in five sets (11-8, 9-11, 11-3, 11-4, 11-4).

    China’s Lin Gaoyuan had a major scare before he overcame Egyptian Youssef Abdelaziz 4-2 (6-11, 11-2, 11-8, 8-11, 11-7, 11-6).

    On the women’s side, China’s world No. 2 Wang Manyu shared insights with teammate Kuai Man after her 4-1 victory over 19-year-old Zuzanna Wielgos.

    Seeking her second world championship singles title since 2021, Wang dropped the fourth set but won her opening match against the Polish teenager 4-1 (11-3, 11-6, 11-4, 11-13, 11-4).

    “She played way better than what she did in videos that I have collected,” said Wang. “Her offensive is of high quality. Unlike Asian players who are usually good at top-spin attacks, she uses flat shots and backhand flicks more often. I will let Kuai Man know about her style.”

    Wang and Kuai then took on Wielgos and Katarzyna Wegrzyn in their doubles opener, winning 3-0.

    Olympic champions Wang Chuqin and Sun Yingsha, one of the most popular doubles combinations in world sports, swept aside their American rivals at their mixed doubles opener.

    Nicknamed “Shatou” – a combination of Sun’s name and Wang’s pet name, Datou, or “Big Head” – the world No. 8 ranked team defeated Liang Jishan and Amy Wang 11-8, 11-1, 11-9. The second set was so one-sided that Wang struck a backhand return into the net while leading 10-0.

    “We had not paired up for several months before this world championships,” said Wang, referring to their drop on the world rankings.

    Known for their youth and energy, Wang and Sun have signed endorsement deals with brands including Coca-Cola, Louis Vuitton and McDonald’s.

    Sun and Wang will now face the Brazilian duo of Calderano and Bruna Takhashi, who advanced over Madagasgar’s Fabio Rakotoarimananah and Hanitra Raharimanana in straight sets.

    The second day action also saw Japanese siblings Miwa and Tomokazu Harimoto shine brightly.

    Teenage sensation Miwa opened her world championship debut with a 4-1 win over Ukrainian veteran Margaryta Pesotska. Her brother Tomokazu, ranked fourth in the world, handed a 4-1 defeat to South Korea’s Lim Jong Hoon.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI USA: California invests $1.7 billion to improve safety, resiliency of highways – including millions for highways damaged by LA fires

    Source: US State of California 2

    May 16, 2025

    What you need to know: The state is investing almost $1.7 billion for improvements to California’s highway system, including $86.5 million for improvements to infrastructure damaged during the Los Angeles firestorms earlier this year.

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced that the California Transportation Commission (CTC) has allocated nearly $1.7 billion to help improve and strengthen the state highway system. Guided by Governor Gavin Newsom’s Build More, Faster – For All infrastructure agenda, these improvements will make California communities safer and more climate resilient.

    In addition to these proactive, long-range efforts, the CTC allocated $86.5 million to repair vital roadways and other transportation infrastructure damaged during recent wildfires and storms in Southern California.

    “Today’s monumental investment puts Californians’ tax dollars to work making critical safety and resiliency improvements to highways throughout the state that support the travel of millions of residents each day. We’re also directing millions to help repair vital infrastructure damaged by the Los Angeles fires.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Projects include:

    • $195.5 million to rehabilitate roadway and drainage systems, add a bike trail and pedestrian bridge, as well as upgrade safety along Interstate 805 in the cities of San Diego, Chula Vista and National City.
    • $129 million to replace the existing Cordelia Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Facility along westbound Interstate 80 near Fairfield.
    • $30 million to replace a retaining wall and rebuild a slope drapery protection system near Big Rock Road in Malibu and reconstruct hillsides above State Route 1 near Mulholland Drive, all of which were impacted by the Palisades Fire and rainstorms.

    “Investments made today support Caltrans’ mission to build and maintain a transportation system that helps Californians now and decades into the future,” said Mike Keever, Acting Director for Caltrans. “This funding translates into safer travel, more accessible mobility options and strengthening our roadways to protect all travelers during extreme weather events.”

    Of the total allocation this month, $655 million came via Senate Bill (SB) 1, the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017, and nearly $567 million from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 (IIJA).

    IIJA, also known as the federal bipartisan infrastructure bill, is a once-in-a-generation investment in our nation’s infrastructure to improve the sustainability and resiliency of our country’s energy, water, broadband and transportation systems. California has received nearly $62 billion in federal infrastructure funding since its passage, including investments to upgrade the state’s roads, bridges, rail, public transit, airports, ports and waterways. The funding alone has already created more than 170,000 jobs in California.

    Meanwhile, SB 1 invests approximately $5 billion annually toward transportation projects. It provides funding split between the state and local agencies. Road projects progress through construction phases more quickly based on the availability of funds, including projects that are partially funded by SB 1.

    For more information visit, Build.ca.gov.

    Press releases, Recent news

    Recent news

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom kicked off #WorldTradeMonth with a round of key international interviews with journalists from major broadcast networks in Canada, Japan, Mexico, South Korea, and the United Kingdom. In the interviews, Governor Newsom addressed…

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring May 2025 as “Small Business Month.”The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below: PROCLAMATIONCalifornia’s more than 4.2 million small businesses – the most of any…

    News Sacramento, California — Governor Gavin Newsom today condemned U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for calling on the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) to conduct a “complete review” of mifepristone — the safe, effective, and…

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Leo XIV and the greatest challenge of our time

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    Following his piece on the late Pope Francis, Jefferson Chua continues his reflections on the relationship between the Papacy of the Roman Catholic Church and climate change, now in the hands of a new pontiff.

    © ANDINA/Archive

    There is a photo of Robert Francis Prevost, back then when he was still archbishop in Chiclayo, Peru, wading through the floodwater that devastated his parish during the historic 2017 El Niño floods. He struck a calm figure who had little to no qualms about being in the middle of  a disaster. The photo made me think: what does Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV, think of climate change, and–more importantly– the solutions needed to address it?

    There are quite a number of clues as to what he would have thought about climate change. He largely aligns with the late Pope Francis’s pivot towards the environment and the Laudato Si agenda, in urging the church to transform words into action in addressing the climate crisis. He has likewise called for a “non-tyrannical relationship” with nature as a key ingredient in climate action, while warning of serious consequences brought about by technological innovation if it is not grounded in a reciprocal relationship with nature.

    In the same breath he also mentions the Vatican’s recent adoption of solar power as well as the purchase of electric vehicles as positive steps in addressing climate change. In his younger years he has also pushed for petitions and shared opinions that seem to align with more urgent climate action and international cooperation.

    I am drawn to the pope’s choice of name. His nominal predecessor, Leo XIII, stands among the giants of the petrine ministry because he took on arguably the greatest challenge of the church during his time: its relationship with the modern world. His encyclical, Rerum Novarum, not only articulated the church’s positionality in the modernizing and industrializing world, but also spoke about the dangers of unchecked capitalism and its impacts on rights, especially that of workers and laborers. In other words, Leo XIII signalled a critical gaze on unchecked profiteering and how this pursuit of more growth and wealth comes at the expense of the rights of those that were instrumental in achieving that wealth.

    I wonder if Leo XIV will be able to transpose this critical gaze onto arguably the greatest challenge of our time, the climate crisis. Our era is characterized by the near-total domination of the corporate few who have reaped in record profits at the expense of everyone. Climate impacts have been increasing in intensity and regularity more than ever, resulting in staggering global losses. In 2024 alone, estimates vary from insurance payouts worth USD 137 billion, to upwards of USD 229 billion with just the ten costliest disasters of last year.

    In contrast, just the five largest investor-owned oil and gas companies–Shell, Exxon Mobil, British Petroleum, Chevron, and Total Energies–earned USD 102 billion in 2024. The figure becomes even more mind-boggling if one looks at their profits in the last decade, which amounted to almost USD 800 billion. This greed is underlined by their business practices, with all of them announcing in different manners of speaking that they will not be phasing out oil and gas and will be cutting investments in green and renewable energy, while at the same time spending astronomical amounts of money to run advertising and marketing campaigns that paint a rosy picture of their supposed concern for the environment and climate action.

    Taking a broader view lays bare this gross inequality: the world’s wealthiest 10% has caused two-thirds of global warming since 1990, which boils down to not just individual lifestyle choices, but more importantly to the concentration of wealth held by a very few but powerful group of people. 

    It is amid this sad and alarming backdrop that we find Leo XIV, who inherits a church in a world that is increasingly more difficult to live in, especially by those at the frontlines of the climate crisis. It is this world that also beckons on Leo XIV to transform the church “from words to action.” Climate action must go beyond platitudes and pursue accountability. 

    There are hopeful signals within the church. A good example would be the Philippines, which constantly ranks as among the most vulnerable countries to climate impacts. For instance, the Roman Catholic Church in the country has set 2025 as the target year when it will be fully divesting from coal and fossil gas investments. Religious-run academic institutions such as Mapua University has likewise pronounced that it too will be divesting from fossil fuels. Church-based grassroots communities and priests have likewise supported environmental defenders and indigenous groups against unchecked transition mineral mining, and have called for holistic climate accountability policies such as the CLIMA Bill. That there is a wealth of examples in the frontiers of the climate crisis should push Leo XIV to take on the fight for climate justice beyond discursive urging. He inherits a church that is suffering precisely because it is in the frontlines. In this manner, Leo XIV himself, through the office entrusted to him, also inherits this moral responsibility to act.

    Perhaps none can encapsulate this moral imperative of his papacy better than an example from his adopted home, Peru. Saul Luciano Lliuya, a farmer from Huaraz, Peru, filed a case against German energy company RWE AG. Initially filed in 2015, Lliuya contested that RWE’s emissions–which is considered one of the biggest emitters in Europe–had a direct impact on the climate that is threatening the claimant’s home. After a successful appeal process in 2017 and initial hearings in March 2025, the court will issue an announcement this May. Lliuya’s case takes on and represents an increasingly-familiar experience by climate-impacted frontline communities of no accountability and increasing impacts.
    One can imagine Leo XIV, in his white cassock, bearing witness to the increasing frequency of floods that Lliuya and countless others are experiencing and, perhaps, likewise add his influential voice to the growing chorus of those calling for accountability. If he is true to his name, and if his papacy signals an unbroken line from Francis’s concerns in Laudato Si, then there is no other alternative to calling out those who are most responsible for the climate crisis: not just individuals, not just countries, but corporations that have accumulated so much wealth while the least of us suffer the worst consequences of a common home in crisis.

    Jefferson Chua is a Greenpeace Campaigner working on climate, based in the Philippines.


    You might want to check out Greenpeace Philippines’ petition called Courage for Climate, a drive in support of real policy and legal solutions in the pursuit of climate justice.

    Courage for Climate

    The climate crisis may seem hopeless, but now is the time for courage, not despair. Join Filipino communities taking bold action for our planet.

    Make an Act of Courage Today!

    MIL OSI NGO

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister Carney meets with leaders on the margins of the inaugural Mass of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Today, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, spoke with the prime ministers of Australia, Bulgaria, Latvia, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and Croatia, as well as the presidents of Israel, Ireland, Paraguay, and Nigeria, on the margins of the inaugural Mass of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV.

    The Prime Minister underscored his new government’s mandate to diversify trade, build a stronger economy, and deepen commercial ties with partners. To that end, he welcomed partnership on shared priorities.

    During his conversation with the President of Israel, Isaac Herzog, Prime Minister Carney reiterated the need for Hamas to release all hostages and stressed the imperative of an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. He called for urgent, life-saving humanitarian aid to reach civilians and affirmed Canada’s support for a two-state solution. The Prime Minister and the President agreed that Hamas must lay down its weapons and have no future role in the governance of Gaza.

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI: XRP News: XenDex Currently In Its last Presale Phase As Users Expect Its First DEX Launch And Exchange Listing, Join Presale As XRP Price Keeps Going Up

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SYDNEY, May 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As XRP makes headlines across the globe, XenDex is capturing investor attention as the most powerful decentralized exchange being built on the XRP Ledger. With its soft cap already filled and the hard cap nearly reached, the final phase of the $XDX presale is now underway — and time is running out.

    Thousands of early adopters have already locked in their tokens. With prices set to rise significantly on launch, this is the last chance to buy $XDX at presale pricing before major exchange listings go live.

    Buy $XDX Now Before Listing On Binance

    Why Now? XRP’s Bullish Momentum Changes Everything

    XRP is soaring following:

    • SEC lawsuit withdrawal
    • Judge Torres’ favorable rulings
    • Approval of ProShares’ XRP Futures ETF
    • Brazil’s first XRP Spot ETF

    With institutional capital entering the market, analysts are now predicting $1,000 XRP in the long term — and XenDex is launching at the perfect time to harness this wave.

    What Is XenDex?

    XenDex is the first all-in-one DEX on XRPL, offering:

    Buy $XDX on XenDex

    • AI Copy Trading
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    • Cross-Chain Trading (BNB, Solana, Ethereum)

    A full platform mockup will be revealed soon, and only presale buyers will gain early access to the live DEX.

    $XDX Presale Details – Final Stage

    • Price: 1.25 XRP = 10 XDX
    • Minimum Buy: 150 XRP
    • Hard Cap: Nearly Filled

    Buy Now Before the Presale Ends In Few Days: Buy Now Before It’s Gone

    Confirmed Listings After Presale

    $XDX will be listed on:

    • Binance
    • Gate.io
    • MEXC
    • BitMart
    • FirstLedger
    • MagneticX

    Buy $XDX Now & Earn Rewards

    Thousands have already joined the XenDex community across Telegram and X (Twitter), locking in their $XDX tokens before exchange listings go live. With the soft cap filled, token supply shrinking, and momentum building by the hour, this is your last best opportunity to buy before price pressure explodes, waiting could mean paying more or missing out entirely.

    Join the DeFi revolution on XRPL. Buy $XDX now before the price surge.

    Join the XenDex Movement

    Website: https://xendex.net
    Presale: https://xendex.net/presale
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    Twitter/X: https://x.com/xendex_xrp
    Docs: https://xdxdocs.gitbook.io

    Contact:
    Frank Richards
    Frank@xendex.net

    Disclaimer: This is a paid post provided by XenDex. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.

    Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

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    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e59ec465-689d-499f-bd96-3331633f397b

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI China: China sees satellite navigation industry output growth in 2024

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

    BEIJING, May 18 — The total output value of China’s satellite navigation and positioning service industry reached 575.8 billion yuan (about 79.9 billion U.S. dollars) in 2024, up 7.39 percent year on year, according to a white paper published Sunday.

    This year’s white paper on the development of China’s satellite navigation and positioning service industry noted that by the end of 2024 the cumulative number of satellite navigation patent applications in China had exceeded 129,000 and approximately 288 million mobile phones in the country were equipped with positioning capabilities enabled by the BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS).

    In 2024, the core output value of chips, algorithms and terminal devices, directly related to China’s satellite navigation and location-based service industry, went up to 169.9 billion yuan, said Yu Xiancheng, president of the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) and Location Based Services (LBS) Association of China (GLAC).

    The BDS has achieved high-precision lane-level navigation, covering more than 99 percent of urban and rural roads across the country. It provides over 1 trillion location services daily and supports a total daily navigation mileage of over 4 billion kilometers.

    Additionally, the BDS empowers road tests for intelligent connected vehicles and ensures the application of intelligent assisted driving in more than 50 cities nationwide.

    “The BDS not only meets domestic demands, but also enables people all over the world to enjoy high-quality public navigation services from China,” said Li Donghang, head of the GLAC Beidou-Space Time Technology Research Institute. The BDS products and services have been exported to over 140 countries and regions.

    As a core supplier of global satellite navigation systems recognized by the United Nations, the BDS has been fully integrated into the standards of 11 international organizations, including civil aviation, maritime affairs and mobile communications.

    More than 30 African countries, including Nigeria, Tunisia, Senegal, Cameroon, and Djibouti, have established BeiDou Continuously Operating Reference Stations (CORS), providing high-precision positioning services for local water conservancy, transportation, agriculture, and meteorological monitoring.

    In South America, the Chancay Port in Peru is the first smart port to apply the “5G + BeiDou high-precision positioning + AI” technology. 

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/VIETNAM – The hope of Vietnamese Catholics: “We look forward to welcoming Pope Leo XIV in Vietnam”

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Saturday, 17 May 2025  

    Ho Chi Minh City (Fides) – “Pope Leo XIV should visit Vietnam, fulfilling Pope Francis’s wish,” headlines a Vietnamese Catholic online newspaper. It is an example of how the Vietnamese Catholic and secular press has also welcomed the news of the new pope’s election. The article recalls that “Pope Francis left behind a profound legacy of compassion, peace, and interreligious dialogue.” “One of Pope Francis’s unfulfilled wishes,” the newspaper continued, “was to visit Vietnam, a country with a vibrant Catholic community and a rich cultural history.” Therefore, they are hoping for “a visit by Pope Leo XIV,” which would “certainly have great significance not only for the Vietnamese Church, but also for other areas such as culture, society, and diplomacy” and “would be a great source of encouragement for Vietnamese Catholics, helping them strengthen their faith and experience unity with the universal Church.” “We wholeheartedly hope that Pope Leo XIV will visit Vietnam, which would be a historic event not only for the Catholic community but also for the entire Vietnamese people, bringing a message of peace, solidarity, and love. The Vietnamese Catholic community is already looking forward to the day of his arrival,” the newspaper concluded.As for the non-Catholic press, the favorable response of the Buddhist community is noteworthy. In an analysis entitled “Pope Leo XIV and the Buddhist Community: A New Era of Interreligious Dialogue,” the Buddhist newspaper Phat u Vietnam reports on the benevolence of non-Christian religious communities, including Buddhists in Vietnam and other Asian countries. Although Pope Leo XIV has not yet disclosed his views on Buddhism, it notes that “his background and past actions reveal an open attitude toward interreligious dialogue.” Specifically, the article mentions his time as a missionary in Peru, where there is a small but thriving Buddhist community: thus, it is assumed that Pope Leo is “familiar with cultural and religious diversity.” Furthermore, Pope Leo XIV is already considered “close” to Buddhist teachings on active compassion (karuna) and the connection between humanity and creation. At a conference in 2024, cited by Vietnamese Buddhists, Cardinal Prevost called for a “reciprocal relationship” between humanity and the environment. This vision, he argued, reflects the Buddhist principle of “non-harm” (ahimsa) and “respect for life,” opening the way for joint projects with Buddhist organizations. Furthermore, it is noted that “the invitation in his inaugural address to ‘build bridges’ indicates his willingness to engage in such collaborations.”Father Peter Nguyen Thanh Tung, professor of church history, expressed his deep appreciation for Pope Leo XIV on behalf of the Church in Vietnam in an interview with the media channel of the Archdiocese of Ho Chi Minh City. “The successor of Saint Peter,” he said, “reminded us that the Church will remain forever steadfast because, as he and Jesus promised, ‘the gates of hell shall not prevail against her.’” “The Pope,” he continued, “chose the name Leo XIV in memory of Leo XIII, who came at a time when the world was confronted with social problems. Pope Leo XIII defended workers in a social context where capitalism exploited them. Pope Leo XIV wishes to continue the path of an open Church, a Church that protects and defends the poor and the weak, the workers, and upholds human dignity.” (PA/AD) (Agenzia Fides, 17/5/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News

  • Mexican Navy tall ship crashes into Brooklyn Bridge, injuring 19

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A Mexican Navy sailing ship festooned with lights and a giant flag crashed into the landmark Brooklyn Bridge on Saturday night, shearing the top of its masts and causing at least 19 injuries, New York City Mayor Eric Adams said.
     
    Videos online showed the training vessel Cuauhtémoc as it approached the iconic bridge over the East River, close to the Manhattan side of the span, which connects the borough with Brooklyn. Its 147-foot (45-m) masts were too tall to clear the arched bridge at that point and toppled when the vessel sailed underneath.
     
    Naval cadets dressed in white uniforms could be seen dangling from the ship’s crossbeams after the crash. Adams said there were 277 people aboard at the time.
     
    “No one fell into the water; they were all hurt inside the ship,” a police official said.
     
    The official said mechanical issues had probably caused the crash, without providing further details.
     
    At one of the suspension bridge’s bases, located near New York City’s South Street Seaport, online video showed bystanders running in terror as the massive vessel hit the bridge and veered toward the dock.
     
    The bridge, a popular tourist attraction and a main conduit between Manhattan and Brooklyn, was completed in 1883. It was once the largest suspension bridge in the world.
     
    The bridge sustained no major damage, New York City transportation official said. Traffic reopened in both directions after a preliminary inspection.
     
    Mexico’s foreign ministry said on social media that Mexico’s ambassador to the U.S. and other officials were assisting affected cadets and have been in contact with local authorities.
     
    The training ship Cuauhtémoc was built at the Celaya Shipyards in Bilbao, Spain in 1981, according to the South Street Seaport Museum, which said on its website that it was co-hosting the vessel’s visit to New York that was scheduled to conclude on Saturday evening. The public was invited to come aboard the ship during its visit.
     
    The ship was disembarking from New York and heading to Iceland, the New York police official said.
     
    (Reuters)
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Seven killed in house fire in northern Mexico

    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

    MEXICO CITY, May 17 (Xinhua) — Seven people, including five children, were killed early Saturday in a fire at a residential building in the city of Saltillo, northern Mexico’s Coahuila state, local media reported.

    The fire broke out at around 4am /10:00 GMT/ and spread quickly due to flammable materials such as acetone, solvents and paint in the house.

    Authorities identified two women, aged 64 and 28, and five children, aged between five and 15, as victims of the accident. Three others were burned and taken to local hospitals.

    Investigators believe that the possible cause of the fire was contact between a candle and flammable materials. Firefighters, police and ambulance crews arrived at the scene, the flames were successfully extinguished.

    Coahuila state authorities have called on residents to take extra safety precautions when using candles and storing hazardous materials at home. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI China: Wang Chuqin romps into second round at table tennis worlds

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

    China’s world No. 2 Wang Chuqin delivered a commanding performance, defeating American Nandan Naresh at the men’s singles first round of the world table tennis championships on Saturday night.

    Wang controlled the match effortlessly and left the 18-year-old opponent with limited opportunities to challenge him, winning the one-sided affair 11-6, 11-4, 11-2, 11-4.

    A service call was successfully challenged as Wang asked for video review on a serve which was ruled as illegally angled.

    “I have confidence in my serves,” said Wang, who is seeking his first world singles championship in Doha.

    Wang’s world fifth-ranked teammate, Liang Jingkun, also made it to the second round, after beating Ham Yu Song from the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea 14-12, 11-6, 10-12, 11-3, 11-8.

    Xue Fei became China’s first casualty, as the only penholding player on the team squandered a two-set lead in a 4-2 loss to Japan’s Hiroto Shinozuka.

    The world’s most renowned penholder, world No. 6 Felix Lebrun of France, eased past Slovakia’s Lubomir Pistej in straight sets.

    Earlier, top-ranked Chinese woman Sun Yingsha cruised past No. 216 Veronika Matiunina of Ukraine in four sets.

    “My performance is normal,” said Sun, the defending world singles champion who has twice finished runner-up at the Olympics. “I didn’t know much about my opponent. But her serve is good, and her style is unique as an 18-year-old teenager.”

    Sun will next take on the winner between 262nd-ranked Costa Rican Lucia Zavaleta and No. 67 Pyong Song Gyong from DPRK, whose players are known for exceeding expectations.

    “My second round rival might be very strong. I will get myself prepared for a tough game,” she said.

    China’s world No. 3 Chen Xingtong also reached the second round, beating South African Rochica Sonday 4-0.

    Japanese Satsuki Odo and Mima Ito, ranked eighth and ninth respectively in the world, both advanced into the second round with straight-set victories.

    Sunday’s action will see China’s world No. 1 Lin Shidong, Brazil’s No. 3 and World Cup holder Hugo Calderano, and China’s No. 2 woman Wang Manyu make their singles appearance in Doha.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Coast Guard investigates 2 separate, unrelated vessel fires in Puerto Rico aboard ferry vessel Breezy Point and tanker Scot Stuttgart

    Source: United States Coast Guard

     

    05/17/2025 04:10 PM EDT

    Coast Guard Sector San Juan marine investigators and vessel inspection teams are investigating two separate and unrelated vessel fires in Puerto Rico on Saturday. Both vessel fires were successfully extinguished, and there are currently no reports of marine pollution or reported injuries in either case. Pollution monitoring efforts continue. “The Coast Guard is investigating these separate and unrelated vessel fires aboard the ferry vessel Breezy Point and the tanker Scot Stuttgart to ascertain the potential causes,” said Capt. Luis J. Rodriguez, Coast Guard Sector San Juan commander. “Each of these vessel fires warrant investigations to learn causative factors and prevent future incidents from occurring with potential risk to human lives and impacts to Puerto Rico’s maritime transportation and marine environment. I commend the crews from both vessels for their initial actions that led to the fires being extinguished, as well as the efforts of responding firefighting crews, which collectively led to preventing the loss of life and averting a more catastrophic outcome.”

    For more breaking news follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI: XRP News: Buy $XDX As XRP Price Goes Up, XenDex Gets Ready To Unveil Its First DEX Version While Presale Nears End

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SYDNEY, May 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As XRP dominates the headlines and bullish momentum accelerates, XenDex is emerging as one of the most promising DeFi projects on the XRP Ledger, and time is running out to join early.

    With its soft cap already filled and the hard cap nearly reached, the $XDX presale is entering its final phase. Early supporters are racing to secure tokens before listings go live and prices rise.

    Purchase $XDX At A low Price

    This surge in demand follows a series of game-changing developments: Judge Torres’ favorable rulings, the SEC’s lawsuit withdrawal, and ProShares’ XRP Futures ETF approval. Market sentiment has never been stronger, with some analysts now predicting XRP could hit $1,000 in the long term as institutional interest pours in.

    Riding this momentum, XenDex is building what XRP has lacked, a complete DeFi ecosystem in one powerful, user-friendly platform.

    Version 1 is currently in development, and a full UI mockup will be released soon showcasing:

    • AI Copy Trading
    • Non-Custodial Lending & Borrowing
    • Cross-Chain Trading (BNB, Solana, Ethereum)
    • Staking & Yield Farming
    • DAO Governance

    Join XenDex Presale

    Only $XDX presale buyers will get early access to the platform once it launches.

    Presale Details (Final Phase)

    • Soft Cap: Filled
    • Hard Cap: Nearly Filled
    • Price: 1.25 XRP = 10 XDX
    • Minimum Buy: 150 XRP

    Buy XDX Before It Sells Out

    XenDex team has confirmed that XDX will be listed after presale on some major exchanges like: Binance, Gate.io, MEXC, BitMart, FirstLedger, MagneticX.

    With the XRP market booming as a result of the SEC’s lawsuit withdrawal, Judge Torres’ favorable rulings, and the approval of ProShares’ XRP Futures ETF, combined with Brazil’s first XRP Spot ETF, market confidence is soaring and many now believe XRP could hit $1,000 in the long run, XenDex is set to launch soon, this is your last chance to buy low before listings go live.

    Join the XDX movement:

    Website: https://xendex.net
    Presale: https://xendex.net/presale
    Telegram: https://t.me/xendexcommunity
    Twitter/X: https://x.com/xendex_xrp
    Docs: https://xdxdocs.gitbook.io

    Contact:
    Frank Richards
    Frank@xendex.net

    Disclaimer: This is a paid post provided by XenDex. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.

    Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.
    Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

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

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/33dedeb6-6640-43e2-a316-4cf470c1f9a3

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: 100x Leverage. No KYC. Double Deposit Bonus. Crypto Futures Trading Made Easy on BexBack

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, May 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As Bitcoin prices soar past the historic $100,000 mark and global tariff tensions ease, market sentiment has turned decisively bullish. Analysts now predict a period of heightened volatility, where massive price swings are expected. Holding spot positions may struggle to generate short-term profits in such conditions. As a result, 100x leverage futures trading has become the preferred tool for seasoned investors looking to maximize potential gains in this volatile market.

    BexBack Exchange is ramping up its efforts to offer traders unmatched promotional packages. The platform now features a 100% deposit bonus, a $50 welcome bonus for new users, 100x leverage on cryptocurrency trading, and no KYC requirements, providing exceptional opportunities for investors to trade freely, efficiently, and anonymously.

    Advantages of 100x Leverage Crypto Futures

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    What Is 100x Leverage and How Does It Work?

    Simply put, 100x leverage allows you to open larger trading positions with less capital. For example:

    Suppose the Bitcoin price is $100,000 that day, and you open a long contract with 1 BTC. After using 100x leverage, the transaction amount is equivalent to 100 BTC.

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    BexBack offers a 100% deposit bonus. If the initial investment is 2 BTC, the profit will increase to 10 BTC, and the return on investment will double to 1000%.

    Note: Although leveraged trading can magnify profits, you also need to be wary of liquidation risks.

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    The deposit bonus from BexBack cannot be directly withdrawn but can be used to open larger positions and increase potential profits. Additionally, during significant market fluctuations, the bonus can serve as extra margin, effectively reducing the risk of liquidation.

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    Website: www.bexback.com

    Contact: business@bexback.com

    Contact:
    Amanda
    business@bexback.com

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

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

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/74538508-ad2c-45d9-8c75-fbd920ac90f9

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/97572220-0be7-4f22-abb1-250429b19ce9

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/be4fbdcf-9aa7-485b-8be7-8bf872646997

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2d4a3758-dd56-452d-9ffc-1e5149511593

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Backgrounder – Canada’s commitments at 2025 United Nations Peacekeeping Ministerial meeting

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Following the 2025 United Nations Peacekeeping Ministerial (UNPKM) meeting in Berlin, Germany, Canada committed to providing more than $40 million in new projects and contributions to continue supporting UN peace operations and related peacebuilding efforts.

    These commitments include a pledge to continue providing tactical airlift support to UN peace operations until 2027. Canada will also continue to support the protection of civilians (including women and children) and providing specialized training and to counter the threat of misinformation, disinformation, malinformation and hate speech in the context of UN peace operations. As a historic partner in supporting UN peace operations, Canada remains committed to advancing the meaningful participation of uniformed women in peace operations and to supporting critical UN capacity gaps.

    Peacekeeping training, capacity building and partnerships

    Canada’s pledging commitments include:

    • more than $11.4 million to support training, capacity building and partnerships
    • more than $3 million to support training and capacity-building efforts to help prepare more than 450 personnel from partner countries to deploy to UN peace support operations
    • an expansion of tactical airlift capabilities and support to the UN through airlift capabilities on an opportunity basis (subject to aircraft availability)
    • assistance to 2 peacekeeping training institutions in the Indo-Pacific region (Vietnam and Malaysia) to build their capacity to plan and deliver their own UN-certified Staff Officer and Civil-Military Cooperation courses
    • delivery of 3 combat first-aid train-the-trainer courses to provide selected partners with an important prerequisite for deployment and to create a national cadre of instructors.

    Canada’s Military Training and Cooperation Program will continue to provide member nations with a wide range of training courses that directly or indirectly strengthen their ability to participate in peace support operations and help improve the interoperability of their personnel in multinational peace support operations. Canada will increasingly share peacekeeping capacity-building activities with like-minded partners and, where appropriate, through the UN Light Coordination Mechanism, to increase opportunities for effective international collaboration and achieve greater impact.

    Through the Canadian Police Arrangement, the RCMP will:

    • augment training and capacity-building partnerships, including through the deployment of subject-matter experts to 3 peacekeeping regional training centres
    • support pre-deployment training for individual women police officers from contributing nations to help them meet UN requirements and increase the number of women police officers in UN missions
    • set up a community of practice consisting of previously deployed women to serve as a resource to support women peacekeepers around the world.

    Enhancing Peace Operations Through Training and Capacity-Building Support to the UN

    Project partner: UN Department of Peace Operations and UN Department of Management Strategy, Policy and Compliance

    Funding announced: $3.3 million

    This funding will support multiple UN teams that focus on: strengthening child protection; countering improvised explosive devices and explosive ordnance capabilities; protecting civilians; preventing sexual exploitation and abuse (the SEA Programme of Action); leadership training (for section commanders and force chiefs of staff); preventing conflict-related sexual violence and peacekeeping intelligence; as well as new and emerging areas such as UN transitions and integrated planning and analysis. 

    Contributing to Addressing and Mitigating Misinformation and Disinformation in UN Peace Operations

    Project partner: UN Department of Peace Operations and UN Department of Operational Support

    Funding announced: $2.2 million

    This funding will support several UN teams that focus on strategic communications and countering misinformation, disinformation, malinformation and hate speech in the context of peace operations, including training and technology tools.

    Improving the Capacities of Uniformed Medical Personnel in Peace Operations Settings

    Project partner: UN Institute for Training and Research

    Funding announced: $2 million

    This funding will support capacity building of uniformed men and women, medical and paramedical personnel deployed in peace operations through the delivery of basic field trauma training, including mental health components and advanced medical training or a train-the-trainers course.

    Driving Excellence: Support to Peacekeeping Training Institutions

    Project partner: UN Institute for Training and Research

    Funding announced: $2 million

    This funding will build the capacity of targeted peacekeeping training institutions in Senegal and Indonesia to successfully develop and deliver national and peacekeeping pre-deployment training to uniformed personnel.

    Increasing Access to Peacekeeping Training Through E-Learning

    Project partner: Peace Operations Training Institute

    Funding announced: $1.5 million

    This funding will provide complementary e-learning training to peacekeepers individually, at a regional/national peacekeeping training institution or in field missions.

    Protection of Civilians in UN Peace Operations and Effects of Disinformation

    Project partner: Henry L. Stimson Center

    Funding announced: $242,285

    This funding will support research on how the full spectrum of UN peace operations can better protect civilians and understand how misinformation and disinformation affect the ability of UN peace operations to protect civilians in the context of 5 UN peace operations: including Colombia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Lebanon, South Sudan and Sudan.

    Supporting the Cyprus Peace Process II

    Project partner: UN Development Programme

    Funding announced: $136,000

    This funding will provide support to the UN Good Offices Mission in Cyprus and the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus to better develop and refine approaches to peacekeeping and peacebuilding in the country through evidence-based research data.

    Supporting Military Gender Advisors and Gender Focal Points

    Project partner: UNITAR

    Funding announced: over $2 million

    This funding will support UNITAR to train military gender advisers and gender focal points for UN peace support operations and to train trainers and deliver national-level gender-mainstreaming courses to selected UN troop-contributing countries.

    Supporting the UN Integrated Training Service (ITS)

    Project partner: UN ITS

    Funding announced: over $800,000

    This funding will support UN ITS to deliver 4 train-the-trainer courses for UN staff officers and 1 train-the-trainer course for UN military observer using the newly updated UN curriculums to bolster national training cadres.

    UN Triangular Partnership Programme (TPP)

    Project partner: UN TPP

    Funding announced: $600,000

    This funding will support the UN TPP to deliver a 9-week cross-pillar training course in Cambodia focusing on explosive hazard awareness and heavy equipment operation. 

    Women, Peace and Security

    Canada will provide more than $26.5 million to support the UN’s Women, Peace and Security agenda, including the Elsie Initiative Fund, and training and capacity building. The RCMP commits to supporting women in peace operations by:

    • providing subject-matter experts to support pre-deployment training for individual women police officers (pre-SAAT)
    • meeting and exceeding the UN Secretary-General’s Uniformed Gender Parity Strategy targets with more than 30% women representation in international deployments
    • Establishing a national mentoring/networking program involving previously deployed women

    United Nations Elsie Initiative Fund for Uniformed Women in Peace Operations

    Project partner: United Nations Development Programme

    Funding announced: $15 million

    This project provides direct support to the Elsie Initiative Fund to: support barrier assessments; construct gender-sensitive accommodations; offer training and daycare facilities; provide financial premiums for gender-strong unit deployments; and develop gender policies, strategies and action plans, as well as training and capacity building.

    Supporting Uniformed Women’s Participation in UN Peace Operations

    Project partner: United Nations Institute for Training and Research

    Funding announced: $3.4 million

    This funding will support selected troop- and police-contributing countries in operationalizing the results of assessments of barriers to the meaningful participation of women in uniform in peace operations.

    Supporting the UN to Increase Meaningful Participation of Women in Peace Operations

    Project partner: UN Department of Peace Operations and UN Department of Operational Support

    Funding announced: $3 million

    This funding will support several UN teams that focus on accelerating the UN’s implementation of the Women, Peace and Security agenda, strategic communications and women’s outreach courses in information communications technology, including Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C4ISR), with the UN C4ISR Academy for Peace Operations.

    Promoting Gender-Sensitive Strategies, Policies and Training for UN Peacekeeping

    Project partners: UN Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, UN Department of Peace Operations

    Funding announced: $2.4 million

    This funding will support the development and coordination of concrete strategic and policy changes, as well as targeted initiatives at all levels within UN headquarters and in field missions, to create an inclusive workplace culture and promote gender parity.

    Amplifying the Elsie Initiative Through Data-informed Capacity Building

    Project partner: Cornell University

    Funding announced: $2.1 million

    This additional funding will support global policy discussions, national security sector actors and research entities in targeted troop- and police-contributing countries. The aim is to increase country-level capacity and motivation to advance women’s meaningful participation in UN peacekeeping by using data-informed technical assistance in 6 countries and producing policy recommendations and papers.

    Women, Peace and Security Mandate in the Indo-Pacific

    Project partners: Kingston Leadership Team Inc. and UN Women in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

    Funding announced: $720,000

    This funding will support several sub-projects that focus on: supporting UN peacekeeping through its Indo-Pacific Strategy; continued partnership with the Malaysian Peacekeeping Centre to deliver bilateral and multilateral Women, Peace and Security training, including train-the-trainer courses; and contribute toward a project delivered by UN Women and the UNDP in collaboration with Vietnam’s Ministry of National Defence to advance Women, Peace and Security, including in peace support operations.

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI: Best Casino Not on Gamstop: AztecParadise Casino Ranked as Top Non Gamstop Casino

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

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    Every deposit method is designed for secure transactions. Your financial details are safe with top-notch encryption and anti-fraud measures.

    Withdrawal Process and Speed

    AztecParadise Casino makes cashing out quick with fast withdrawals. Crypto transactions are super speedy, allowing fast access to your cash.

    1. Request withdrawal: Via your account dashboard
    2. Processing: Instant for cryptocurrencies, up to 24 hours for e-wallets, and 3-5 days for bank transfers
    3. Receiving funds: Depends on your chosen method

    Our efficient withdrawal system means less waiting to enjoy your winnings.

    Dedicated Customer Support

    At AztecParadise Casino, providing top-notch customer support is our top priority. We understand what you need and have set up various ways to help quickly and effectively. Whether you’re into fast responses through live chat or detailed answers via email, we’ve got you covered day and night.

    Support Channels

    You have many ways to get in touch with AztecParadise Casino’s support team. Live chat is ready 24/7 for swift replies to urgent questions. If you need to explain more or attach documents, email assistance is also available for more in-depth help. Players who have registered with GamStop can still access support for gambling websites not licensed by the UK Gambling Commission.

    • Live Chat: Immediate support, any time of the day.
    • Email Assistance: For detailed queries, with responses typically within a few hours.

    Availability and Responsiveness

    Your gaming won’t be put on hold, and neither will our support. AztecParadise Casino is known for its fast service. Most of the time, live chat can sort out your problems in minutes. Email replies, on the other hand, come quickly too, keeping your gaming smooth and fun.

    1. Rapid response times for live chat, typically within a few minutes.
    2. Email responses are well-crafted and sent within an expedited timeframe.

    Prioritizing Responsible Gaming

    At AztecParadise Casino, we take responsible gaming very seriously. We make sure every player is well-looked after. We know how important gambling awareness is. So, we’ve got lots of ways to keep gaming fun and safe for you.

    Our goal is to make the casino a place where you can enjoy yourself without worry. Responsible gambling practices are crucial in preventing gambling addiction and ensuring a safe gaming environment. We give you tools and information to help with your gambling awareness. It doesn’t matter if you’re new or have been gambling for years.

    AztecParadise wants to make sure you gamble safely. We have deposit limits, self-exclusion options, and plenty of information on gambling risks. Plus, our support staff are always here to help with any questions about player welfare.

    • Setting personal limits to manage gambling behaviour effectively.
    • Access to regular assessments to encourage reflection on gambling habits.
    • Direct links to professional help and support services for gambling-related concerns.

    AztecParadise Casino is dedicated to your well-being and enjoyment when you play. We want to make sure your experience is exciting but also safe and under control. We’re committed to protecting you and ensuring the highest standards of player protection.

    Final Thoughts on AztecParadise Casino

    AztecParadise Casino has clearly worked hard to provide a top-notch online casino experience. It combines a wide range of games with excellent quality to please all players.

    The casino’s focus on offering varied games and secure features shows their commitment to your gaming satisfaction. There’s something for everyone, including live dealer games and exciting slots.

    Selecting the best casinos, particularly those not on GamStop, can significantly enhance your gambling experience by offering greater flexibility and variety in gameplay. Their online casino experience is enhanced by strong customer support and an easy-to-use interface. This makes your gaming experience smooth and enjoyable.

    AztecParadise Casino is a great choice for those looking for a comprehensive gaming platform. It offers an immersive experience that goes beyond the usual. This can lead to both joy and the chance for good winnings.

    Disclaimer & Affiliate Disclosure

    We wish to be open about our use of affiliate links in our detailed AztecParadise Casino review. These partnerships help us keep our content of high quality. You won’t pay extra because of them. By working with AztecParadise and similar sites, we aim to give you complete, unbiased info.

    Our content is for information only, to help you make better choices when playing. Even if we get commissions from casino links, our opinions are honest and true. This helps you understand your gaming choices better.

    Remember, the information in this review is based on facts up to 2025. We trust you to use this insight wisely and follow your local laws. With this knowledge, you can enjoy AztecParadise Casino safely and responsibly.

    Frequently Asked Questions about Non Gamstop Casinos

    Is AztecParadise Casino licensed and secure?

    Yes, it’s licensed by Costa Rica’s gambling authorities. It also uses encryption tech to keep your data safe.

    How do I register at AztecParadise Casino?

    Register by going to their website. Fill in your details, create a password, and verify your account with an SMS code.

    What kind of games can I find at AztecParadise Casino?

    They have over 4,000 games! You’ll find slots, Megaways, live casino games, and more, including poker and blackjack.

    Which software providers does AztecParadise Casino collaborate with?

    They work with top software providers. This ensures their games are high-quality and fun to play.

    Can I play for real money at AztecParadise Casino?

    Yes, you can play real money games there. They have high-stakes table games and loads of slots.

    Media contact

    Project Name: Aztec Paradise Casino

    Website: aztecparadise.com

    Contact Person: Roger Chambers, rogerc@aztecparadise.com.

    Email ID: sales@aztecparadise.com

    Address: Centro Corporativo Plaza Roble, Edificio 5

    San Rafael de Escazú, San José Province, Costa Rica 10203

    Disclaimer & Affiliate Disclosure

    This article is for general information and promotional purposes only and shouldn’t be taken as legal, financial, or professional advice. While we aim for accuracy, we can’t guarantee everything is up-to-date or complete. Please double-check details before acting. Some links may be affiliate links, meaning we could earn a commission at no extra cost to you, but this doesn’t affect our content or opinions. Online gambling is for adults of legal age (typically 19+) and carries financial risk. Play responsibly and seek help if needed. Brand names mentioned belong to their respective owners. By reading this, you accept full responsibility for how you use the information.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/aa9e1d3f-0af6-43da-97b1-da4cff877ca7

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Magnitude 6.1 earthquake hits central Peru – GFZ

    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, May 17 (Xinhua) — An earthquake with a magnitude of 6.1 jolted central Peru at 10:22:06 GMT on Saturday, the German Research Center for Geosciences (GFZ) said.

    According to initial data, the epicenter of the earthquake was located at a point with coordinates of 14.67 degrees south latitude and 74.04 degrees west longitude. The epicenter was located at a depth of 10 km. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI: Best No Verification Casinos UK – Aztec Paradise Picked as Best

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN JOSÉ, Costa Rica, May 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — For those who prefer a more seamless experience, no ID verification casinos are a popular choice. These casinos allow players to deposit, play, and withdraw without the need to upload identification documents. While this offers a level of convenience and privacy, it’s important to understand the pros and cons of these casinos, as well as the options available to UK players.

    Aztec Paradise – The Best No ID Verification Casino UK

    Among the many no ID verification casinos available to UK players, Aztec Paradise stands out as a top choice. This casino has been recognized for offering a seamless, user-friendly gambling experience that prioritizes both convenience and security. Here’s why Aztec Paradise is considered the best in the industry:

    1. No-Fuss Registration Process

    Aztec Paradise offers a quick registration process that doesn’t require players to submit identification documents at the sign-up stage. By using alternative payment methods and relying on secure payment providers, Aztec Paradise allows players to start playing games almost immediately. This is perfect for players who want to get straight to the action without having to deal with time-consuming verification steps.

    2. Fast Deposits and Withdrawals

    Thanks to its partnership with trusted payment providers like Trustly, Skrill, and Bitcoin, Aztec Paradise offers instant deposit and withdrawal options. Players can fund their accounts in a matter of minutes and withdraw their winnings with minimal delays, all without the need for ID verification.

    • E-wallets: Deposits via Skrill or Neteller are processed immediately, and withdrawals can be completed within 24 hours.
    • Cryptocurrency: Players who prefer Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies can enjoy ultra-fast transactions, making Aztec Paradise a great option for those who want to keep their gambling activity anonymous and fast.
    • Bank Transfers: If you prefer more traditional methods, Aztec Paradise supports instant bank transfers through Trustly, making it easy to transfer funds securely without the need for ID verification.

    3. Extensive Game Selection

    Aztec Paradise doesn’t compromise on game variety. The casino offers a wide range of games, including:

    • Slots: From classic 3-reel slots to modern video slots, Aztec Paradise has something for every slot enthusiast.
    • Table Games: Traditional games like blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and poker are available in both virtual and live dealer formats.
    • Live Casino: The live casino section is powered by top-tier providers like Evolution Gaming, offering players a real-time gambling experience with professional dealers.

    Whether you’re a casual player or a seasoned gambler, Aztec Paradise has enough variety to keep you entertained for hours.

    4. Robust Security and Fairness

    While Aztec Paradise doesn’t require ID verification, it takes security very seriously. The casino uses SSL encryption technology to protect your financial and personal information. All transactions are processed through secure payment providers, and the games are powered by provably fair software from reputable developers.

    • Payment Security: Aztec Paradise works only with reputable payment processors like Skrill, Neteller, and Trustly, which comply with industry standards for financial security.
    • Fair Play: The casino ensures that all games are tested for fairness, using certified Random Number Generators (RNGs) to ensure that all game outcomes are random and unbiased.

    5. Anonymous Gambling Options

    For players who value privacy, Aztec Paradise allows gambling with cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, which do not require any personal identification. This makes Aztec Paradise an ideal choice for players who want to remain anonymous while enjoying their favorite casino games.

    • Bitcoin Withdrawals: Withdrawals are processed quickly, and players can choose to remain completely anonymous by using cryptocurrency as a payment method.
    • E-Wallets: Players who prefer using digital wallets can rest assured that their personal details are protected by the secure encryption provided by these payment providers.

    6. Customer Support

    Aztec Paradise offers excellent 24/7 customer support through multiple channels, including live chat, email, and phone. Whether you need assistance with a payment, a game, or have a general inquiry, the support team is available to help you promptly and professionally.

    7. Responsible Gambling

    Even though Aztec Paradise doesn’t require ID verification, it still takes responsible gambling seriously. The casino offers various tools to help players manage their gambling habits, including deposit limits, self-exclusion options, and links to support organizations like GamCare. Players can also set daily, weekly, or monthly spending limits to ensure they play within their means.

    In the online gambling world, players are often faced with a variety of verification requirements, including the need to submit identification documents to confirm their identity. This process, known as ID verification, is a standard practice at most casinos to comply with anti-money laundering (AML) regulations and ensure responsible gambling. However, many players find this process time-consuming, invasive, and frustrating, especially when they just want to enjoy their gaming experience without delays.

    In this article, we will explore no ID verification casinos, why they are becoming increasingly popular in the UK, and how Aztec Paradise has been recognized as the best choice in this category. We’ll also delve into the benefits, risks, and factors to consider when choosing a no ID verification casino.

    What Are No ID Verification Casinos?

    A no ID verification casino is an online casino that allows players to create an account, make deposits, play games, and withdraw winnings without the need to submit identification documents like passports, driving licenses, or utility bills. This streamlined process can be highly attractive to players who are looking to avoid lengthy verification procedures or simply want to maintain a level of anonymity while gambling.

    Typically, no ID verification casinos rely on alternative verification methods such as pay-by-phone, cryptocurrencies, or instant bank transfers to verify players’ identities indirectly, or they operate in jurisdictions where the regulatory requirements are less stringent.

    How Do No ID Verification Casinos Work?

    At a traditional casino, players are required to submit documents to verify their identity when making withdrawals. This can include a photo ID, proof of address, and proof of payment method. However, no ID verification casinos bypass this step by implementing alternative mechanisms for identity verification:

    • Payment Providers: Some no ID verification casinos partner with payment providers that handle the identity verification process for you. For instance, e-wallets like PayPal, Skrill, or Neteller, or even cryptocurrency deposits, can offer a level of verification without requiring players to upload their ID documents.
    • Instant Bank Transfers: Casinos that accept payments through bank transfer systems such as Trustly, InstantBank, or Boku often allow players to bypass ID verification since these services already perform identity checks when transferring money.
    • Cryptocurrency: Since cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum are decentralized and don’t require personal information to transact, some casinos accept these methods without needing to verify your identity.

    Why Are No ID Verification Casinos Popular in the UK?

    No ID verification casinos have gained popularity in the UK for several reasons:

    1. Convenience and Speed: The main draw of no ID verification casinos is the speed with which players can start gambling. Unlike traditional casinos, where players have to wait for the verification process to be completed before making a withdrawal, no ID casinos let you deposit, play, and withdraw almost instantly.
    2. Privacy and Anonymity: For players who prefer to keep their gambling activity private, no ID verification casinos offer a level of anonymity. The lack of personal information required reduces the risk of data breaches and keeps players’ gambling habits discreet.
    3. Avoiding Lengthy Verification Processes: Many players find the verification process at traditional casinos to be a hassle. With no ID verification casinos, you can skip the requirement to upload documents, which makes the entire process much more convenient and user-friendly.
    4. Ease of Access for Casual Gamblers: Not every player wants to commit a significant amount of personal information to an online casino, especially if they’re just casually trying it out. No ID verification casinos provide a great way for new players to get started without having to go through the formalities.

    However, it’s important to note that while these casinos offer more convenient access, there are some trade-offs in terms of security and regulations, which we’ll explore in the next section.

    Benefits of No ID Verification Casinos

    • Speed and Convenience: No ID verification casinos allow you to start playing immediately after registering and making your first deposit.
    • Privacy and Anonymity: With fewer personal details required, players can maintain their privacy and anonymity.
    • Fewer Barriers to Entry: Many players find the verification process tedious and time-consuming. No ID verification casinos remove this hurdle, making it easier to get started.
    • Faster Withdrawals: By skipping the verification process, withdrawals can be processed faster, especially when using payment methods like e-wallets or cryptocurrencies.

    Risks of No ID Verification Casinos

    • Lack of Regulation: No ID verification casinos are often not subject to the same strict regulations as UK-licensed casinos, which can lead to potential issues with fairness and security.
    • Potential for Fraud: Some unregulated casinos may take advantage of players by engaging in fraudulent activities. It’s important to choose well-reviewed and reputable casinos.
    • Limited Player Protection: If you encounter issues with withdrawals or disputes, no ID verification casinos may not offer the same level of customer protection as regulated casinos.

    Conclusion

    Aztec Paradise stands out as the best no ID verification casino for UK players, offering a seamless, secure, and enjoyable gambling experience without the hassle of identity verification. With fast deposits, a wide range of games, and a focus on player privacy, Aztec Paradise is a top choice for players looking for a more streamlined and convenient online casino experience.

    While no ID verification casinos like Aztec Paradise offer several benefits, players should still be cautious and ensure they are choosing a reputable and secure casino. Always remember to gamble responsibly, and never risk more than you can afford to lose.

    Project Name: Aztec Paradise Casino
    Website: https://aztecparadise.com/
    Contact Person: Roger Chambers, rogerc@aztecparadise.com.
    Email ID: sales@aztecparadise.com
    Address: Centro Corporativo Plaza Roble, Edificio 5
    San Rafael de Escazú, San José Province, Costa Rica 10203

    Disclaimer & Affiliate Disclosure

    This article is for general information and promotional purposes only and shouldn’t be taken as legal, financial, or professional advice. While we aim for accuracy, we can’t guarantee everything is up-to-date or complete. Please double-check details before acting. Some links may be affiliate links, meaning we could earn a commission at no extra cost to you, but this doesn’t affect our content or opinions. Online gambling is for adults of legal age (typically 19+) and carries financial risk. Play responsibly and seek help if needed. Brand names mentioned belong to their respective owners. By reading this, you accept full responsibility for how you use the information.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Best Non-GamStop Casinos UK – Aztec Paradise Picked as Best

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN JOSÉ, Costa Rica, May 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Some players feel restricted by GamStop and seek alternatives. That’s where non-GamStop casinos come into play. These non UK casinos cater to players who have opted out of GamStop, offering a different kind of freedom and flexibility.

    We have reviewed hundreds of online casinos not on GamStop and we’ve picked the best one: Aztec Paradise Casino.

    Best Non-GamStop Casinos in the UK for 2025

    Aztec Paradise – Best Overall

    Among the myriad of Non-GamStop casino sites, Aztec Paradise stands out as a top contender for the crown of the best casino available today. In this article, we’ll explore the growing trend of Non-GamStop casinos, why Aztec Paradise has earned the title of the best, and what players should look for when choosing a casino that doesn’t participate in the GamStop system.

    In the world of online gambling, finding the right casino that suits your preferences and meets your needs is paramount. For UK players, GamStop is a prominent self-exclusion program aimed at helping individuals take control of their gambling habits. While this initiative has its merits, it doesn’t suit everyone.

    What Are Non-GamStop Casino Sites?

    Non-GamStop casinos are online gambling platforms that do not participate in the UK’s GamStop self-exclusion program. GamStop is a free service that allows players to self-exclude from participating online casinos licensed in the UK. While this program offers much-needed protection for those who struggle with gambling addiction, it also restricts many players from accessing their favorite online casinos.

    For individuals who have self-excluded or are simply looking for greater freedom, Non-GamStop casinos provide an alternative by not being part of this program. These sites typically operate under different licenses, often in jurisdictions outside the UK, such as Curacao or Malta, and are not bound by GamStop’s regulations. As a result, players have unrestricted access to gaming content, bonuses, and promotions that are often unavailable at GamStop-participating casinos.

    Why Do Players Choose Non-GamStop Casinos?

    There are several reasons why players might seek out Non-GamStop casinos. Here are some of the most common:

    • Freedom from Self-Exclusion: Players who have previously self-excluded via GamStop may want to re-enter the gambling world but find themselves unable to access UK-licensed casinos. Non-GamStop sites offer them a way to bypass this restriction.
    • Wider Range of Bonuses and Promotions: Many Non-GamStop casinos offer more generous bonuses and loyalty programs compared to their GamStop counterparts. This can be very appealing to players looking to get more value from their gameplay.
    • Access to International Casino Games: Non-GamStop casinos often have a more diverse selection of games, including those that are not available on UK-licensed platforms.
    • More Flexible Payment Options: These casinos often provide a wider variety of deposit and withdrawal methods, including cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, which is a popular choice for players seeking privacy and fast transactions.
    • Larger Betting Limits: Many Non-GamStop casinos have higher betting limits than UK-licensed casinos, which is attractive to high rollers and experienced players.

    What Makes Aztec Paradise the Best Non-GamStop Casino?

    Aztec Paradise has earned a stellar reputation as one of the leading Non-GamStop casino sites. Here are some of the key factors that set it apart from its competitors:

    1. Impressive Game Selection

    Aztec Paradise offers a vast selection of online casino games, ranging from classic table games to cutting-edge slots, live dealer games, and even virtual sports. Powered by some of the best software providers in the industry, such as Microgaming, NetEnt, and Pragmatic Play, players can expect high-quality, entertaining gameplay.

    Whether you’re a fan of video slots, poker, blackjack, or roulette, Aztec Paradise has something for everyone. The casino also frequently updates its game library, ensuring that there’s always something fresh to explore.

    2. Top-Notch User Experience

    The casino’s website is sleek, easy to navigate, and fully optimized for mobile devices. Players can enjoy a seamless gaming experience whether they’re playing on desktop or smartphone. The site is intuitive and user-friendly, which makes it easy to find your favorite games, explore promotions, and make deposits or withdrawals.

    3. Secure and Safe Gambling Environment

    Even though Aztec Paradise operates outside of the UK’s GamStop system, the casino still prioritizes player safety. It employs advanced SSL encryption technology to ensure that all transactions and personal data are kept secure. The casino also follows strict responsible gambling guidelines, offering players the option to set deposit limits, take breaks, or self-exclude if necessary.

    4. Generous Bonuses and Promotions

    Aztec Paradise is known for its generous welcome bonus and ongoing promotions. New players are welcomed with a hefty sign-up bonus, while regular players are rewarded with daily, weekly, and monthly promotions. These bonuses often come with fair wagering requirements, which is a significant advantage over other Non-GamStop casinos that might have overly stringent terms.

    Additionally, the loyalty program at Aztec Paradise is impressive, offering exclusive rewards to returning players such as free spins, cashbacks, and VIP perks.

    5. Flexible Payment Methods

    Aztec Paradise supports a variety of deposit and withdrawal methods, including credit and debit cards, e-wallets, and even cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum. This flexibility is one of the reasons why players from all around the world choose this platform.

    Withdrawals are processed promptly, and the casino has a reputation for timely payouts, which enhances the overall player experience.

    6. Outstanding Customer Support

    Customer support is a priority at Aztec Paradise. The casino offers 24/7 support through multiple channels, including live chat, email, and phone. The support team is responsive and well-trained, ensuring that player issues are resolved quickly and efficiently.

    7. Fair Gaming and Transparency

    Aztec Paradise prides itself on offering fair gaming experiences. The casino uses certified Random Number Generators (RNGs) to ensure that all game outcomes are fair and unbiased. In addition, the casino provides clear terms and conditions, making it easier for players to understand their rights and obligations.

    Things to Consider When Choosing a Non-GamStop Casino

    While Aztec Paradise may be the best Non-GamStop casino, it’s important for players to keep several factors in mind when choosing any online casino, especially those that are not part of the GamStop system:

    • Licensing and Regulation: Ensure that the casino operates under a reputable gaming license (e.g., Curacao, Malta). Although these sites are not part of GamStop, they should still be regulated to ensure fairness and security.
    • Responsible Gambling Features: Check if the casino offers tools like deposit limits, self-exclusion options, or links to organizations that promote responsible gambling. These features can be important, even if you’re not enrolled in GamStop.
    • Bonuses and Wagering Requirements: Be mindful of bonus terms and conditions, especially the wagering requirements. Non-GamStop casinos may offer big bonuses, but always check the fine print to avoid unpleasant surprises.
    • Game Fairness: Verify that the casino uses certified RNG software, ensuring that the games are fair and that the outcomes are random.
    • Payment Methods: Consider the deposit and withdrawal options available. Non-GamStop casinos tend to offer more flexibility with payments, so choose one that supports your preferred method.

    Licensed Casinos vs Non-GamStop Sites: A Comprehensive Comparison

    When it comes to online gambling, players have a range of options available to them. Two major categories of online casinos that players might encounter are licensed casinos and Non-GamStop casinos. Each has its own set of benefits and considerations, and understanding the differences can help you choose the right type of casino for your preferences.

    In this comparison, we’ll explore licensed casinos (those that are regulated by official authorities like the UK Gambling Commission) versus Non-GamStop sites (casinos not participating in the UK’s self-exclusion program). By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of the pros and cons of each type of casino, helping you make an informed decision about where to play.

    1. Licensing and Regulation

    Licensed Casinos

    Licensed casinos are regulated by gambling authorities in their respective jurisdictions. In the case of UK players, UK-licensed casinos are licensed by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), which ensures that these casinos adhere to strict standards of fairness, security, and responsible gambling.

    Pros of Licensed Casinos:

    • Regulation and Trustworthiness: These casinos are required to operate within the boundaries of local laws and regulations, ensuring player protection. The UKGC, for example, enforces strict guidelines on responsible gambling, fairness, and transparency.
    • Player Protection: Licensed casinos often provide mechanisms for players to set limits, self-exclude, or seek support from organizations like GamCare if they feel their gambling is becoming problematic.
    • Fair Gaming: The UKGC ensures that casinos are audited regularly for fairness. Random Number Generators (RNGs) are tested to ensure the outcomes of games are unbiased and random.
    • Dispute Resolution: If there’s a dispute between the player and the casino, the licensing authority often has an arbitration system in place to resolve the issue.

    Cons of Licensed Casinos:

    • GamStop Participation: UK-licensed casinos are often bound by the GamStop self-exclusion program. Players who sign up for GamStop cannot access these casinos, even if they want to return after their self-exclusion period ends.
    • Restrictions on Promotions: Due to strict regulations, UK-licensed casinos may offer fewer or less generous bonuses, as they must comply with fair advertising practices and responsible gambling laws.
    • Limited Payment Methods: UK-licensed casinos tend to have fewer payment options, particularly when it comes to cryptocurrencies or e-wallets, due to regulatory constraints.

    Non-GamStop Sites

    Non-GamStop casinos, as the name suggests, are not part of the GamStop self-exclusion program, and they are often licensed by gaming authorities outside the UK, such as Curacao, Malta, or Gibraltar. These casinos typically serve players who have opted out of GamStop or prefer casinos that don’t participate in the program.

    Pros of Non-GamStop Sites:

    • No GamStop Restrictions: Players who have self-excluded through GamStop can still access Non-GamStop casinos, making them an appealing choice for those who want to return to gambling after a self-imposed break.
    • Better Bonuses and Promotions: Non-GamStop casinos often offer more attractive bonuses, including no-wagering bonuses, free spins, and VIP rewards. The wagering requirements tend to be more favorable compared to UK-licensed casinos.
    • Flexible Payment Methods: Non-GamStop casinos are typically more open to a wider variety of payment methods, including cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other alternative payment methods. These casinos often cater to players who prefer more privacy or quicker transactions.
    • High Betting Limits: Many Non-GamStop casinos have higher betting limits, making them ideal for high-rollers who want to place larger bets without restrictions.

    Cons of Non-GamStop Sites:

    • Less Regulation: These casinos may not be as tightly regulated as UK-licensed casinos. This can lead to concerns over fairness, player protection, and security, especially if the licensing body isn’t as well-known or respected.
    • Fewer Player Protections: Non-GamStop casinos might not have the same level of player protection as UK-licensed casinos. Although some of these sites take responsible gambling seriously, they don’t have to follow the same guidelines as casinos regulated by the UKGC, which could lead to issues if a player faces gambling addiction problems.
    • Potential for Scams: Since the regulatory oversight is often weaker than that of UK-licensed sites, players may encounter casinos that engage in unfair practices or have poor customer service. It’s essential to check for proper licensing and reviews before choosing a Non-GamStop casino.
    • Lack of GamCare Integration: Non-GamStop casinos typically don’t have connections with responsible gambling organizations like GamCare, and they may not provide the same level of support for those facing gambling problems.

    2. Bonuses and Promotions

    Licensed Casinos

    UK-licensed casinos often offer bonuses, but they must adhere to strict rules regarding how bonuses are advertised and structured. This can sometimes result in fewer or more modest bonus offers.

    Pros of Bonuses at Licensed Casinos:

    • Transparency and Fairness: UK-licensed casinos are obligated to provide clear terms and conditions for their bonuses. You’ll often find wagering requirements and bonus terms written in an understandable way, offering a fair playing field for all.
    • Safe and Secure Promotions: Any promotions offered by UK-licensed casinos are tightly regulated, so you can trust that they’re legitimate and not misleading.

    Cons of Bonuses at Licensed Casinos:

    • Limited Bonuses: The stricter regulations often limit the size and frequency of bonuses. For example, some casinos might offer smaller welcome bonuses, and bonus promotions may come with higher wagering requirements.
    • Fewer No-Wagering Bonuses: No-wagering bonuses (where players can withdraw the bonus amount without needing to wager it multiple times) are less common at UK-licensed casinos.

    Non-GamStop Sites

    Non-GamStop casinos are known for offering more generous bonuses and less restrictive terms. This is especially true when it comes to no-wagering bonuses, free spins, and high-roller promotions.

    Pros of Bonuses at Non-GamStop Sites:

    • Bigger Bonuses: Non-GamStop casinos typically offer larger welcome bonuses, free spins, and other perks that are more generous compared to UK-licensed casinos.
    • Lower Wagering Requirements: Many Non-GamStop casinos offer promotions with lower or no wagering requirements, meaning players can withdraw winnings faster and easier.
    • Frequent Promotions: These casinos often run frequent promotions, including reload bonuses, cashback offers, and VIP rewards, ensuring that players have ongoing incentives to keep playing.

    Cons of Bonuses at Non-GamStop Sites:

    • Terms May Be Vague: Some Non-GamStop casinos may not always present bonus terms in a transparent manner, making it harder for players to understand the true cost of claiming a bonus.
    • Possible Scams: There are Non-GamStop casinos that may promote enticing bonuses but fail to fulfill their promises or impose hidden conditions. Always check reviews and player feedback before accepting a bonus.

    3. Payment Options

    Licensed Casinos

    Licensed casinos, especially those regulated in the UK, tend to offer fewer payment options compared to Non-GamStop sites. The most common payment methods are credit/debit cards, bank transfers, and e-wallets like PayPal or Skrill.

    Pros of Payment Options at Licensed Casinos:

    • Trustworthy Payment Methods: Payment methods supported by licensed casinos are typically safe and reliable. Players can trust that deposits and withdrawals are processed securely.
    • Faster Withdrawals: Many UK-licensed casinos offer fast withdrawal times, especially when using e-wallets.

    Cons of Payment Options at Licensed Casinos:

    • Limited Cryptocurrency Options: Many UK casinos do not accept cryptocurrencies, which can be a drawback for players who prefer using Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other digital currencies.
    • Banking Fees: Some UK casinos charge banking fees or may have longer withdrawal times when using traditional payment methods like bank transfers.

    Non-GamStop Sites

    Non-GamStop casinos tend to offer a broader range of payment methods, including cryptocurrencies, e-wallets, and traditional banking methods.

    Pros of Payment Options at Non-GamStop Sites:

    • Cryptocurrency Support: Many Non-GamStop casinos support a wide range of cryptocurrencies, making it easier for players who value privacy and fast transactions to deposit and withdraw funds.
    • More Payment Methods: These sites are more likely to offer a variety of payment options, including newer, alternative methods like PayPal, Neteller, and Skrill.
    • Faster Transactions: Cryptocurrencies and e-wallets tend to offer faster withdrawal times compared to traditional banking methods, which can be a significant advantage for players.

    Cons of Payment Options at Non-GamStop Sites:

    • Fewer Secure Methods: Some Non-GamStop casinos may not have the same level of payment security or regulatory oversight, making it important to choose a reputable site with secure transaction methods.

    Which is Better?

    Choosing between a licensed casino and a Non-GamStop site depends on your specific needs and preferences.

    • Licensed Casinos are ideal for players who value regulation, player protection, and a safe gambling environment. They are the best option for those who are looking for a secure, trusted platform with transparent policies and the backing of a reputable licensing authority like the UK Gambling Commission.
    • Non-GamStop Sites are more suitable for players who want greater freedom and flexibility, especially those who have self-excluded from GamStop or prefer larger bonuses, fewer restrictions, and more diverse payment options. However, they come with some risks related to security, regulation, and player protection, so it’s important to choose a well-established and licensed Non-GamStop casino.

    Ultimately, the best option depends on what you’re looking for in terms of bonuses, security, flexibility, and player protection. Always gamble responsibly, and ensure that any casino you choose is reputable and trustworthy.

    Conclusion

    While GamStop has been an important tool for many players who need help controlling their gambling habits, it’s not for everyone. Non-GamStop casinos provide a valuable alternative for players seeking more freedom, greater rewards, and a wider variety of games. Among these, Aztec Paradise shines as a top choice, offering a great blend of gaming quality, bonuses, and player security.

    Before venturing into the world of Non-GamStop casinos, always remember to gamble responsibly. If you decide to play at a site like Aztec Paradise, enjoy the entertainment but keep your limits in check.

    With its comprehensive offerings, Aztec Paradise stands as a prime example of how a Non-GamStop casino can deliver an enjoyable, secure, and rewarding experience. For those seeking a premier gambling destination outside of GamStop’s reach, Aztec Paradise is certainly worth a look.

    Project Name: Aztec Paradise Casino
    Website: https://aztecparadise.com/
    Contact Person: Roger Chambers, rogerc@aztecparadise.com.
    Email ID: sales@aztecparadise.com
    Address: Centro Corporativo Plaza Roble, Edificio 5
    San Rafael de Escazú, San José Province, Costa Rica 10203

    Disclaimer & Affiliate Disclosure

    This article is for general information and promotional purposes only and shouldn’t be taken as legal, financial, or professional advice. While we aim for accuracy, we can’t guarantee everything is up-to-date or complete. Please double-check details before acting. Some links may be affiliate links, meaning we could earn a commission at no extra cost to you, but this doesn’t affect our content or opinions. Online gambling is for adults of legal age (typically 19+) and carries financial risk. Play responsibly and seek help if needed. Brand names mentioned belong to their respective owners. By reading this, you accept full responsibility for how you use the information.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3190425a-9523-44ba-98d9-692f1996021c

    The MIL Network

  • India to showcase power sector achievements at BRICS Energy Ministers’ Meet

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India is set to highlight its progress in the power and energy sectors at the upcoming BRICS Energy Ministers’ Meeting, scheduled to take place in Brazil on May 19, the Ministry of Power said on Saturday.
     
    Union Minister for Power and Housing and Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal, has embarked on an official visit to represent India at the high-level gathering.
     
    The meeting, being held under the theme “Empowering Global South Cooperation for Inclusive and Sustainable Global Governance,” will bring together energy ministers from BRICS nations — Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa — to deliberate on critical issues such as energy security, accessibility, affordability, and sustainability.
     
    India plans to use this platform to showcase key achievements from the past decade, including a 90 per cent increase in power generation capacity, significant advancements in renewable energy, green hydrogen, and biofuels, along with notable innovations in sustainable energy practices.
     
    During the discussions, India will also reaffirm its commitment to making energy more accessible and affordable, while accelerating the shift towards clean energy.
  • MIL-OSI China: Xi extends condolences over death of Uruguay’s former president

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Xi extends condolences over death of Uruguay’s former president

    Xinhua | May 17, 2025

    Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday extended condolences to Uruguayan President Yamandu Orsi over the death of former Uruguayan President Jose Mujica.

    In his message, Xi expressed deep condolences on behalf of the Chinese government and people, and extended sincere sympathies to Mujica’s family and the people of Uruguay.

    As a renowned leader of Uruguay, Mujica dedicated his entire life to the well-being of the Uruguayan people and was deeply loved by them, enjoying a high reputation in the international community, Xi said in the message.

    Mujica had long been committed to the development of China-Uruguay relations and made positive contributions to the cause of friendship between China and Uruguay, Xi said, adding that the Chinese people have lost an old and good friend.

    Xi said he attaches great significance to developing China-Uruguay relations and looks to work with President Orsi to continue promoting the China-Uruguay comprehensive strategic partnership.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Soto, Salazar, Wasserman Schultz Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Designate Venezuela for Temporary Protected Status

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Darren Soto (D-FL)

    The Venezuela TPS Act of 2025 would protect over half a million Venezuelan nationals who currently hold protected status

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Florida Reps. Darren Soto (D-FL-09), María Elvira Salazar (R-FL-27), and Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL-25) introduced the bipartisan Venezuela TPS Act of 2025, legislation designating Venezuela for Temporary Protected Status. This comes after U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem announced the termination of Venezuela’s TPS extension by the Biden Administration, affecting more than half a million Venezuelans who currently hold protected status. 

    “We are concerned by the Trump Administration’s actions to strip Venezuelans of Temporary Protected Status, parole, and other critical protections during a time of major instability in their country. In Central Florida, thousands of Venezuelans have fled political violence and joined family members already living in the United States, contributing to our economy, and working hard to help our community grow,” said Congressman Darren Soto. “It is insulting to turn our backs on this group. Now more than ever, we need to come together to protect our community from unjust treatment and unconstitutional deportations.” 

    “The oppression of the Maduro regime and the total failure of socialism of the 21st century has created dangerous conditions in Venezuela and a constant threat of political persecution,” said Congresswoman Salazar. “That’s why I am proud to co-lead the Venezuela TPS Act of 2025—to ensure law-abiding Venezuelans currently in the United States can stay here until conditions improve and they are not forcibly returned to a brutal dictatorship. I will continue fighting for a free and prosperous Venezuela, led by its legitimate President Edmundo Gonzalez and the Iron Lady Maria Corina Machado.”

    “It is simply wrong to subject law-abiding Venezuelan families to a criminal, murderous regime that openly and flagrantly violates human rights,” said Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz. “TPS recipients are not criminals—they are here legally and nobody with a criminal record is eligible for protection. I’m proud to join this bipartisan effort to prevent Venezuelan families in my district from being unjustly torn apart while we continue to fight for a free and prosperous Venezuela under democratic leadership.”

    The Venezuela TPS Act of 2025 automatically designates Venezuela for TPS for an initial period of 18 months, with the option of renewal. Under TPS, Venezuelans would be shielded from deportation and granted work authorization, allowing individuals to pay taxes and contribute to their communities. The Act also provides for individuals to travel abroad for emergencies and extenuating circumstances.

    Political instability, endemic corruption, and repression under Nicolás Maduro’s authoritarian regime has led to massive food and medicine shortages, with millions living in poverty and suffering from food insecurity. Venezuela’s economy has contracted by more than 80% since 2014, which is more than twice the magnitude of the Great Depression in the United States. Due to the ongoing crisis in Venezuela, Venezuelans have consistently been the leading nationality requesting asylum in the United States since 2016. As of June 2023, United Nations agencies believe that over 7.3 million Venezuelans have fled the country, many of whom have resettled in neighboring countries like Colombia and Brazil. 

    Venezuelan nationals will be eligible for TPS if they: 

    ·    Have been continuously physically present in the United States since the date of the bill’s enactment;

    ·    Are admissible to the United States; and

    ·    Register for TPS in a manner established by the U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security.

    For the full text of the bill, please click here

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: EN ESPAÑOL: Soto, Salazar, Wasserman Schultz Presentan Proyecto de Ley Bipartidista Para Designar a Venezuela al Estatus de Protección Temporal

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Darren Soto (D-FL)

    La Ley de TPS para Venezuela del 2025 protegería a más de medio millón de ciudadanos venezolanos que actualmente tienen estatus protegido

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Hoy, representantes de la Florida Darren Soto (D-FL-09), María Elvira Salazar (R-FL-27) y Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL-25) presentaron la Ley de TPS para Venezuela del 2025, un proyecto de ley bipartidista que designaría a Venezuela al Estatus de Protección Temporal (TPS, por sus siglas en inglés). Este proyecto de ley se produjo después de que la secretaria de Seguridad Nacional de los Estados Unidos, Kristi Noem, anuncio la terminación de la extensión del TPS para Venezuela por parte de la Administración Biden, que afecta a más de medio millón de ciudadanos que actualmente tienen estatus protegido.

    “Estamos preocupados por las acciones de la Administración Trump para sacarle a los venezolanos los beneficios del Estatus de Protección Temporal, la libertad condicional y otras protecciones críticas durante un momento de gran inestabilidad en su país. En Florida Central, miles de venezolanos han huido de la violencia política y se han unido a sus familiares que actualmente viven en los Estados Unidos—contribuyendo a la economía y trabajando arduamente para ayudar a que nuestra comunidad crezca,” dijo el congresista Darren Soto. “Darle la espalda a este grupo es un gran insulto. Ahora más que nunca, necesitamos unirnos para proteger a nuestra comunidad contra trato injusto y las deportaciones inconstitucionales.”

     “La opresión del régimen de Maduro y el fracaso total del socialismo del siglo XXI ha creado condiciones peligrosas en Venezuela y una amenaza constante de persecución política,” dijo la congresista Salazar. “Es por eso que me enorgullece coliderar la Ley de TPS para Venezuela del 2025, para garantizar que los venezolanos respetuosos de la ley que actualmente se encuentran en los Estados Unidos puedan permanecer aquí hasta que las condiciones mejoren y no sean devueltos a la fuerza a una dictadura brutal. Seguiré luchando por una Venezuela libre y próspera, liderada por su legítimo presidente Edmundo González y la Dama de Hierro María Corina Machado.”

     “Es simplemente un error someter a las familias venezolanas respetuosas de la ley a un régimen criminal y asesino que viola abierta y flagrantemente los derechos humanos,” dijo la congresista Wasserman Schultz. “Los beneficiarios del TPS no son criminales, están aquí legalmente y nadie con antecedentes penales es elegible para la protección. Estoy orgullosa de unirme a este esfuerzo bipartidista para evitar que las familias venezolanas en mi distrito sean injustamente separadas mientras continuamos luchando por una Venezuela libre y próspera bajo un liderazgo democrático.”

    La Ley de TPS para Venezuela del 2025 automáticamente designaría a Venezuela al TPS por un período inicial de 18 meses, con opción de renovación. Bajo el TPS, los venezolanos estarían protegidos contra la deportación y se les otorgaría autorización de trabajo, permitiéndoles a los beneficiarios pagar impuestos y contribuir a sus comunidades. El proyecto de ley también prevé que los beneficiarios viajen al extranjero por situaciones de emergencia y circunstancias atenuantes.

    La inestabilidad política, la corrupción endémica y la represión bajo el régimen autoritario de Nicolás Maduro han provocado una escasez masiva de alimentos y medicamentos, con milliones de personas vivendo en la pobreza y sufriendo inseguridad alimentaria. La economía de Venezuela se ha contraído en más del 80% desde el 2014, más del doble de la magnitud de la Gran Depresión en los Estados Unidos. Debido a la crisis en Venezuela, los venezolanos han sido consistentemente la principal nacionalidad que solicita asilo en los Estados Unidos desde el 2016. Hasta junio del 2023, las agencias de las Naciones Unidas Unidas creen que más de 7,3 millones de venezolanos han huido del país, muchos de los cuales se han reasentado en países vecinos como Colombia y Brasil.

    Los ciudadanos venezolanos serán elegibles para el TPS bajo estas condiciones:

    ·    Haber estado físicamente presente continuamente en los Estados Unidos desde la fecha de promulgación del proyecto de ley; 

    ·    Ser admisibles a los Estados Unidos; y 

    ·    Registrarse para el TPS de la manera establecida por el/la secretario/a de Seguridad Nacional de los Estados Unidos.

     Para ver el texto completo del proyecto de ley,haz clic aquí.  

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Gonzalez Meets with Salvadoran President Bukele and Tours CECOT Amid Efforts to Strengthen Bilateral Ties

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (15th District of Texas)

     WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-34) announced his recent trip to El Salvador where he met with Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele and toured several sites, including the country’s maximum-security prison, el Centro de Confinamiento del Terrorismo or CECOT. Congressman Gonzalez led this trip with fellow Congressional El Salvador Caucus Co-Chair, Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna (FL-13). Both were joined by fellow caucus member Congressman Andy Ogles (TN-05) and former Congressman and Co-Chair, Matt Gaetz.

    The bipartisan group of lawmakers met with President Bukele and Salvadoran leadership to discuss the importance of U.S.-El Salvador relations and the crucial role El Salvador plays in the region. The delegation then toured the Children’s Home of San Vicente De Paul which provides children whose families are incarcerated safety, care, and educational opportunities. This was followed by a visit to La Libertad, El Salvador, to greet local leaders and receive the key to the city. Lastly, the delegation toured CECOT facilities in Tecoluca, El Salvador and saw firsthand the operations behind one of the world’s largest maximum-security prisons. 

    “I thank President Bukele for hosting our Congressional delegation as we work to ensure the relationship between the people of the U.S. and El Salvador continues to prosper,” said Congressman Gonzalez. “El Salvador is crucial in helping the United States curb the flow of irregular migration and is an important ally in the western hemisphere.” 

    “President Bukele and I also discussed the detention of individuals from the United States. As a U.S. lawyer, I have concerns about whether due process and constitutional protections are being followed—specifically regarding the detention of foreign nationals. I made sure to assert these concerns during our discussions.” 

    Photos from the visit are available here.  

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Security: ‘King’ of Violent Haitian Gang Found Guilty on All Charges for Hostage Taking of 16 American Christian Missionaries

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

                WASHINGTON – Joly Germine, 32, of Croix-des-Bouquets, Haiti, was found guilty today by a federal jury in the District of Columbia for his role in orchestrating the 2021 hostage taking of 16 American citizens, including five children, and holding them hostage for 62 days.

               The verdict was announced by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro and FBI Assistant Special Agent in Charge Ryan James of the Miami Field Office.

               “This office will fight aggressively to protect Americans who are taken hostage and abused, and to uphold the religious freedoms of our people, including Christians.  As the evidence demonstrated, Joly Germine orchestrated a plot that leveraged American Christian missionaries as bargaining chips to try to secure his own release from a Haitian prison,” said U.S. Attorney Pirro. “When you commit crimes against Americans in other countries, it makes no difference where you are — we are coming for you. Justice may not always be swift but it is certain.”

               “This conviction demonstrates the FBI’s determination to follow the evidence wherever it leads and to work our way up to the leaders of criminal plots wherever they are. Haitian gang leader and convicted kidnapper Joly Germine found out he was not beyond the reach of the FBI,” said FBI Assistant Special Agent in Charge James. “Neither time nor distance will weaken our resolve. We will use all tools available and go to farthest reaches of the globe to bring to justice those who kidnap Americans.”

               Following a 10-day trial in U.S. District Court, the jury found Germine guilty of one count of conspiracy to commit hostage taking and 16 counts of hostage taking of a U.S. national for ransom. 

               The former leader and self-described “king” of the notoriously violent Haitian gang known as 400 Mawozo, Germine previously pleaded guilty to his role in a gun trafficking conspiracy that smuggled firearms to Haiti in violation of U.S. export laws and the laundering of the gang’s funds derived from ransoms paid for other U.S. hostage victims. For those crimes, he was sentenced in June 2024 to 35 years in federal prison. 

               Germine’s gang, 400 Mawozo, operated in the Croix-des-Bouquets area to the east of the Haitian capital, Port-au-Prince. Germine directed the gang’s operations from prison using unmonitored cell phones and was constantly in touch with other 400 Mawazo leaders, most of whom were his relatives. Germine controlled the gang’s finances, supplied the gang’s weapons, and otherwise directed operations. 

               On October 16, 2021, 17 Mennonite missionaries from Christian Aid Ministries, an Ohio-based missionary aid organization, were returning from visiting an orphanage when they were stopped by 400 Mawozo’s armed and masked soldiers. Many of the gang’s soldiers were brandishing firearms supplied by Germine.  The group included 12 adults and 5 children, including a 6-year-old, 3-year-old, and an 8-month-old. Sixteen of the victims were U.S. citizens and one was a Canadian citizen.  

               The gang drove the missionaries to a field and robbed them, while consulting by phone with Germine, their leader. The gang took the missionaries to a building in a rural area, held them at gunpoint, and demanded ransom of $1 million each for their return. In postings on social media, the gang threatened to kill all the hostages if the ransom was not paid. Early on in the negotiations, senior gang leadership said that, in lieu of the ransom monies, 400 Mawozo would accept Germine’s release from prison in exchange for the hostages. 

               On November 20, 2021, two hostages were released after one was suffering from life-threatening health conditions. On December 5, 2021, 400 Mawozo released three of the hostages, two adults who had significant medical issues and the six-year old child, after receiving a $350,000 ransom payment. Though the gang had stated they would release all the hostages for the ransom paid, at Germine’s direction, the gang thereafter refused to release any more hostages. On December 16, 2021, the remaining hostages escaped under cover of darkness while their captors were distracted, walking for five hours through the Haitian bush until they were out of the gang’s territory. They were received by the FBI, which had deployed to Haiti and arranged to immediately transport them from Haiti before the gang could respond to their escape. In total, most of the missionaries were held for 62 days. 

              The evidence at trial showed that Germine had directed the initial kidnapping, had arranged for the locations where hostages were held, and set the $17 million ransom demand, knowing it was too high to be paid and would result in the Haitian government negotiating his release from prison in exchange for the missionaries.  The evidence also showed that Germine was involved in or consulted on the decisions to release victims.

               The FBI Miami Field Office investigated the case, with assistance from Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. During the law enforcement response to the kidnapping, extraordinary assistance was provided in a whole of government response by various agencies, including Customs and Border Protection Service, the Drug Enforcement Agency, Department of Defense, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Valuable assistance was provided by the government of Haiti, the government of the Dominican Republic, the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs, the Department of State and the Embassy in Port-au-Prince, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida’s Special Prosecutions Section.

               The case was  prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Karen P. Seifert and Tom Saunders and Paralegal Specialist Jorge Casillas for the District of Columbia, with invaluable assistance from Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly Paschall, Victim Advocate Yvonne Bryant, and Victim Witness Coordinators Tonya Jones and Guisela Castillo. 

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: District of Arizona Charges 310 Individuals for Immigration-Related Criminal Conduct this Week

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PHOENIX, Ariz. – During the week of enforcement operations from May 10, 2025, through May 16, 2025, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona brought immigration-related criminal charges against 310 individuals. Specifically, the United States filed 125 cases in which aliens illegally re-entered the United States, and the United States also charged 170 aliens for illegally entering the United States.  In its ongoing effort to deter unlawful immigration, the United States charged 15 individuals responsible for smuggling illegal aliens into and within the District of Arizona.

    These cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE ERO), ICE Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), U.S. Border Patrol, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

    Recent matters of interest include:

    United States v. Angelica Ramos-Lopez: On May 10, 2025, Angelica Ramos-Lopez, a United States citizen, was charged with Conspiracy to Transport an Illegal Alien, Birth Certificate Fraud, and Aggravated Identity Theft. On May 9, 2025, Ramos-Lopez approached the State Route 85 immigration checkpoint near Gila Bend in a vehicle with a child lying down in the backseat, covered by a blanket from head to toe. Ramos-Lopez presented a birth certificate and United States passport for the child with a birth year of 2017 that listed Ramos -Lopez as the mother. However, the child who was in the vehicle provided a different name than the one found on the birth certificate and stated that the driver was his stepmother. In a post-Miranda interview, Ramos-Lopez admitted that she did not know who the child was, but that she knew the child was undocumented. Ramos-Lopez told officers that she was getting paid to transport the child from Mexico to Phoenix, Arizona. Ramos-Lopez stated that the birth certificate was real, but it belonged to her biological son, not the child passenger. [Case Number: MJ-25-6234]

    United States v. Yolanda Mendivil-Diaz: On May 13, 2025, Yolanda Mendivil-Diaz was charged with Reentry of a Removed Alien. Mendivil-Diaz was previously removed from the United States in 2014 after being convicted for Conspiracy to Sell or Transfer Narcotic Drugs, a felony offense, in the Superior Court of Arizona. [Case Number: MJ-25-3192]

    United States v. Jose Herrera Daniel: On May 14, 2025, Jose Herrera Daniel was charged by criminal complaint for attempting to illegally export ammunition from the United States into Mexico. The complaint alleges that United States Customs and Border Protection officers searched Daniel’s car at the Douglas Port of Entry and found 6,399 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition hidden in the vehicle. [Case Number: MJ-25-9008]

    A criminal complaint is simply a method by which a person is charged with criminal activity and raises no inference of guilt. An individual is presumed innocent until evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

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

    RELEASE NUMBER:    2025-078_May 16 Immigration Enforcement

    # # #

    For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/

    Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZ for the latest news.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican National Sentenced to 88 Months in Prison for Role in Drug Conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    TUCSON, Ariz. – German Montano-Peralta, 33, of Nacozari, Sonora, Mexico, was sentenced on May 12, 2025, by United States District Judge Angela Martinez to 88 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Montano-Peralta previously pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl and Methamphetamine.

    On April 30, 2024, in Tucson, Arizona, Montano-Peralta and others possessed approximately 40 kilograms of powder and pills containing fentanyl and more than 55 pounds of methamphetamine, which they intended to deliver to others later that day.

    This investigation was a collaborative effort between federal law enforcement agencies and is part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) initiative in Southern Arizona that is being led by the Arizona Strike Force located in Tucson. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

    Homeland Security Investigations, the FBI, and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney, David Petermann, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.

    CASE NUMBER:            CR-24-2710-AMM-4
    RELEASE NUMBER:    2025-079_Montano-Peralta

    # # #

    For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/

    Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Cleaver’s Statement on the Passing of Former Missouri Governor and Senator Christopher S. “Kit” Bond

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II (5th District Missouri)

    (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) released the following statement after the passing of former Missouri Governor and Senator Christopher S. “Kit” Bond.

    “Kit Bond was a superb statesman, an exemplary public servant, and a dear friend to myself and Missourians across the Show Me State. From his time as State Auditor to his stewardship of Missouri as Governor, and eventually as Missouri’s Senator in Washington, Kit was the kind of elected official that every Missourian could be proud to call their representative; I know I was.  

    “Having come from the small town of Mexico, Missouri, Kit would go on to graduate top of his class in law school and use his brilliant legal mind to clerk for the Chief Judge on the Fifth Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals. He was the epitome of the American Dream and what is possible through hard work and perseverance. While he could have stayed in Washington, D.C. to pursue a lucrative career in law, his love for Missouri and passion for public service were a magnetic force that brought him back home. 

    “As a City Councilman and then Mayor, I had the privilege of working with Governor-turned-Senator Bond on numerous projects to the benefit of Kansas City and those who reside in our community. From the Charles E. Whittaker Federal Courthouse to the National World War I Museum and Memorial, as well as the redevelopment of 18th & Vine and the construction of the Christopher S. Bond Bridge, one cannot walk around our community without experiencing the important work of Kit Bond – and every Kansas Citian should be grateful for his willingness to seek common ground and work across the aisle to make each of them possible.”

    “With time, our professional relationship grew into a profound friendship that I will cherish forever. It is with deep sadness that I say farewell to a true friend, and I extend my deepest condolences to the entire Bond family as they grieve this colossal loss. May every Missourian take a moment to give thanks to this Missouri hero, and may his memory be a blessing to all.”

    ###

    Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee’s Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: McCaul Praises Trump Admin’s Border Security Efforts at Hearing with Secretary Noem

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Michael McCaul (10th District of Texas)

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Congressman Michael McCaul (R-Texas) — chairman emeritus and current vice chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee — delivered remarks on the Trump administration’s swift success in securing the border and questioned Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem about the importance of passing House Republicans’ reconciliation bill.

    Click to watch

    Transcript of Vice Chair McCaul’s Interaction with Secretary Noem:

    Vice Chair McCaul: Madam Secretary, it was great to serve with you in Congress. It was an honor, and it’s an honor to see you as secretary of this important department. Let me say on behalf of my state of Texas, thank you for what you’ve done in a very short period of time.

    I’ve worked on this issue — as a federal prosecutor [and] as chairman of this committee — for over 25 years. I never saw the border more broken, more chaotic, than I did under the prior administration. Yet within months, you have restored order to the border, and the stats speak for themselves. And I want to commend you and President Trump for that.

    You know, on day one, [the Biden administration] rescinded the Remain in Mexico policy, which led to the chaos. It said, we’re open for business, come on in. And they did. Over 10 million encounters, 2 million gotaways. Yet within months of your administration, that number [of encounters] has gone down 93%.

    Catch and release. I’ve been fighting that one for years [through solutions like Remain in Mexico]. The Biden administration did away with it. Now we’re decreased to 99.99%. Almost zero catch and release. A very dangerous policy. Remain in Mexico’s [underlying statute] has been on the books for 30 years. Yet I marked it up on the Foreign Affairs Committee last year as part of the Secure the Border Act.

    Most offensively, and the reason I was an impeachment manager against Mayorkas, was his dereliction of duty to basically prioritize allowing aggravated felons into the country, even though Congress, by federal law, said “shall detain” aggravated felons. Yet, what did he do? He told his agents, that’s discretionary. You can release these dangerous criminals into our society.

    What have you done within months? [In the first] 50 days, you have 14,000 criminal aliens arrested, some of the most brutal gang members like MS-13 and TDA, and it’s making this country safer.

    Fentanyl, each year more Americans die from fentanyl than the number of Americans who died in the Vietnam War over 20 years. You recently had the largest massive seizure of these deadly drugs just this last couple weeks [that were being trafficked] by the Sinaloa cartel. And again, my state thanks you for that.

    Terrorism. You said 250 known or suspected terrorists have been deported. We saw after Afghanistan, the debacle of the collapse of Afghanistan, when Bagram was shut down, the prisons were unleashed, ISIS-K went to the Khorasan region, crossed into the United States, and eight were found plotting in this country.

    You are making this country safer by your actions. The Biden administration made it dangerous, and it didn’t take a bunch of new laws. It [took] new leadership, which you have provided and the president has provided as well.

    My question to you is, as you know, you need resources. And nobody knows that better than I do. We marked up a bill — about $70 billion — that can be put into your department to [enforce] these laws already passed by the Congress. The Foreign Terrorist Organization designation [for cartels] was huge.

    Let me just ask you this. How will this bill, the reconciliation bill, assist you in your efforts to continue and promote safety in the United States?

    Secretary Noem: Well, thank you, Mr. Chairman, and I appreciate all of your leadership on our national security issues in the past and still continue in the future to focus on that.

    The reconciliation bill is imperative to our future in securing our nation. For years previous, the Department of Homeland Security has been neglected. It’s one of the larger agencies in the federal government with one of the smallest budgets. And certainly under the previous administration, the Coast Guard was hollowed out. Border Patrol and ICE were not allowed to do their jobs. They were not allowed to invest in new technologies that they could utilize for interdiction. Also, our borders need surveillance and technology to make sure that we know who’s coming into this country and why. Our ports of entry need new scanners so that we’re truly scanning our shipping containers and much of our air freight. We don’t know what’s coming in by air either.

    Those kinds of adjustments and technology and software upgrades are needed to compete, but also to secure our country with the threats that we face. And we don’t just face threats from gangs and cartels. It’s from China and the PRC and Iran and hackers that come into our system. Salt and Volt Typhoon have taught us that we’re extremely vulnerable to these kinds of attempts in the future.

    In fact, one of the most alarming things I heard as soon as I was nominated for this position, I was in a briefing from CISA that told me that they knew with salt typhoon that we had been hacked, but they also said they didn’t know how it happened or how to stop it in the future. Now the main goal of CISA is to hunt and to harden our systems. Hunt bad actors and harden our systems for our small and medium sized critical infrastructure. Department of Homeland Security has 10 of the 16 components of critical infrastructure, and that’s what we need to focus our resources on.

    Vice Chair McCaul: Thank you.

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    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sánchez offers amendment to help workers displaced by Trump’s chaotic trade policies

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Linda Sanchez (38th District of CA)

    WASHINGTON – During the markup of the Republican tax bill, Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee Ranking Member Linda T. Sánchez (D-Calif.) introduced an amendment to provide Trade Adjustment Assistance to workers and small businesses displaced by trade. The Republican-led committee blocked the amendment in a 19–24 party-line vote

    Video of her statement introducing the amendment is available HERE and the text follows:

    “This tax bill is a desperate attempt from Republicans to kowtow to corporations, while they turn their backs on millions of hardworking Americans.

    Prices on everyday goods are rising, retirees are watching their savings evaporate as markets swing wildly, farmers are losing access to key export markets, many small businesses are on the verge of closing their doors forever, and jobs are being lost.

    It’s time to put an end to the economic damage. A tax bill that creates massive deficits and gives handouts to billionaires will not do that. We must use this opportunity to restore stability in our trade and economic policy before the damage is too far to reverse.

    That’s why I am offering an amendment to renew Trade Adjustment Assistance and modernize the program, including by streamlining the eligibility criteria for farmers, workers, and businesses. This language comes from the COMPETES Act, which Congress passed on a bipartisan basis in 2022.

    Under my amendment, displaced workers would be eligible to apply for Trade Adjustment Assistance through 2031. My amendment would also ensure port workers and workers in the trucking industry will be eligible to apply for TAA if they unfairly lost their jobs due to tariffs imposed by President Trump since January 20th of this year.

    Since its inception, TAA has helped millions of trade-displaced workers attain the necessary skills, credentials, resources, and support they need in order to return to work. At least 192,000 workers have pending TAA petitions with the Department of Labor. That includes 17,240 new applicants since President Trump took office to March — a nearly 10 percent increase in less than two months.

    Despite the fact that this data was updated monthly, no new data has been available since March 3rd, just after the Trump administration began to wreak havoc on our economy with the Canada and Mexico tariffs and the April 2nd global tariffs.

    Wow. I wonder why? Could it be that the Trump administration is scared of Americans finding out the real cost of his chaotic trade policies?

    Not only are prices going up, but Americans working in trade-related industries literally have their jobs on the line, including the thousands of port workers from Los Angeles and Long Beach that live in my district.

    Every one container that arrives in the port supports four jobs in the Los Angeles economy. Yet, imports at the Port of Los Angeles are currently down by 35% from the same time last year. If this trend continues, empty shelves and layoffs will follow.

    We also cannot forget the truck drivers who help transport essential goods across the country. These truck drivers will lose from declining truck volumes and higher operational costs.

    We cannot abandon our workers. They need relief now.

    Over 8,000 workers with pending TAA applications are in my Republican Ways and Means colleagues’ districts:

    • Chairman Smith currently has 1,272 workers with pending TAA applications.
    • Representative Adrian Smith – 295 workers
    • Representative Mike Kelly – 60 workers
    • Representative Schweikert – 250 workers
    • Representative LaHood – 1,097 workers
    • Representative Estes – 528 workers
    • Representative Miller – 35 workers
    • Representative Murphy – 120 workers
    • Representative Van Duyne – 1,382 workers
    • Representative Feenstra – 197 workers
    • Representative Carey – 387 workers
    • Representative Miller – 125 workers
    • Representative Yakym – 2,442 workers

    All with pending trade adjustment claims. They cannot afford to be left in limbo any longer, waiting for Congress to renew Trade Adjustment Assistance.

    I call on my Republican colleagues to support my amendment to renew TAA and offer some relief to their constituents who have unfairly lost their jobs due to this administration’s stupid and irresponsible trade policies.”

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    MIL OSI USA News