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Category: Latin America

  • MIL-OSI Global: India-Pakistan: escalating conflict between two nuclear powers

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Jonathan Este, Senior International Affairs Editor, Associate Editor

    This article was first published in The Conversation UK’s World Affairs Briefing email newsletter. Sign up to receive weekly analysis of the latest developments in international relations, direct to your inbox.

    Once again, India and Pakistan are locked in conflict over Kashmir. A diplomatic crisis that started with a terrorist attack that killed 26 tourists, all but one of them Indian, became a fortnight of cross-border skirmishes and pugilistic posturing from New Delhi and Islamabad. India responded on May 7 with Operation Sindoor, a series of airstrikes apparently aimed at what India said were terrorist training camps, in which at least 31 people were reportedly killed. Pakistan has vowed revenge and launched its own deadly attacks. And so an old emnity is rekindled.

    India and Pakistan have been at loggerheads over Kashmir virtually since partition in 1947. Its mixed population, its geography and, importantly, its history as what was known as a “princely state”, virtually guaranteed it. Princely states, which were not administered by the British Raj were given the choice of joining either independent India or the newly created Pakistan. Kashmir, ruled over by the Hindu maharaja Hari Singh, eventually joined India.

    Hari Singh reportedly did so with some misgivings. The state he ruled over had a majority population of Muslims. But when the first conflict broke out at the end of 1947, with an invasion by Pakistani tribesmen looking to take control of Kashmir, he called on India for assistance and signed a deal temporarily incorporating the state into India pending a plebiscite – which never took place.

    The first India-Pakistan war ended in 1949 with a UN-mandated ceasefire. A border was drawn through the state giving India roughly two-thirds control over Jammu and Kashmir, with Pakistan controlling the other third. Both sides have claimed the whole territory ever since.

    Violence has broken out periodically in the intervening decades, characterised since the 1980s by insurgencies, which India routinely accuses Pakistan of backing – an accusation which Pakistan routinely denies. Groups such as Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) have carried out terror attacks in both Kashmir and India, including LeT’s 2008 Mumbai massacre in which 166 people were killed.

    Sign up to receive our weekly World Affairs Briefing newsletter from The Conversation UK. Every Thursday we’ll bring you expert analysis of the big stories in international relations.

    Now the situation which the rest of the world has worried about for years, a conflict between two neighbouring nuclear armed powers, has begun to escalate with fears it might spiral out of control. Natasha Lindsteadt, an expert in international security, takes a look at the military – and nuclear– capabilities and policies of the two countries.

    She writes that India has a far larger military (it’s ranked as one of the world’s top five military nations by Military Watch magazine, with Pakistan ranked ninth). The two countries have a roughly comparable nuclear arsenal. But while India has a “no first use” policy, Pakistan has never committed itself in this way, arguing it needs its nuclear arsenal to counter India’s larger conventional forces.

    But even a small nuclear exchange between the two could kill more than 20 million people, writes Lindsteadt.



    Read more:
    Why are India and Pakistan on the brink of war and how dangerous is the situation? An expert explains

    Part of the problem seems to be a complete lack of communications at the highest level. US president, Donald Trump, initially appeared reluctant to get involved, saying that he is “sure they’ll figure it out one way or the other … There’s great tension between Pakistan and India, but there always has been.” He is since reported to have offered to step in, an offer apparently politely rejected by New Delhi.

    “What is needed now is robust, real-time crisis communication between the two nations,” write security experts Syed Ali Zia Jaffery of the University of Lahore and Nicholas Wheeler of the University of Birmingham. The problem is that there is no mechanism for that.

    And as we know from the Cuban missile crisis, when the US and Soviet Union came very close to a nuclear exchange, it’s all too easy for mistakes to be made which could escalate a conflict between two nuclear powers into a conflagration.

    After that crisis, the two leaders involved, John F. Kennedy and Nikita Krushchev, set up a communications link (which became known as the “hotline”) to enable direct communications. As Jaffery and Wheeler point out, this served to keep the rival powers from further dangerous confrontation (it even helped in bringing about arms treaties when Ronald Reagan was in the White House and Mikhail Gorbachev was in the Kremlin.



    Read more:
    Why a hotline is needed to help bring India and Pakistan back from the brink of a disastrous war

    For a deeper dive into the crisis and the long history of conflict between India and Pakistan, here are five essential reads, carefully curated for you by my colleague Matt Williams, senior international editor at The Conversation in the US.



    Read more:
    India-Pakistan strikes: 5 essential reads on decades of rivalry and tensions over Kashmir

    Netanyahu’s Gaza plan

    In the Middle East, meanwhile, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are planning to move in large numbers into Gaza with a plan to occupy the whole of the territory. The prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has described the move as a “forceful operation” which will destroy Hamas and rescue its remaining hostages. The remaining population of 2.1 million Palestinian civilians will be moved “to proect it”.

    With more than 50,000 people dead in Gaza since the conflict began in October 2023, you have to say Israel’s attempts to protect civilians have been decidedly unsuccessful.

    Leonie Fleischmann, senior lecturer in international politics at City St George’s, University of London, sees this as Israel’s next step towards clearing Gaza of Palestinians, something she says Netanyahu’s far-right enablers have been pushing for all along. But she also sees parallels with what is happening in the West Bank, where Israel is gradually annexing land occupied by Palestinians and mandated by the Oslo accords of the 1990s as part of a future Palestinian state.

    The recent Louis Theroux documentary film showed the terrible circumstances under which Palestinians live on the West Bank, juxtaposing that with the determination of extreme Zionists to take over what they see as the land of their forefathers.

    Fleischmann notes that this week, Israeli cabinet minister Bezalel Smotrich approved plans for construction on land in an area which, if given to settlers, would effectively cut the West Bank in two. This would, she says, “bury any remaining hope for a two-state solution”. Rather chillingly, Smotrich is quoted as saying: “This is how you kill the Palestinian state.”



    Read more:
    Israeli plan to occupy all of Gaza could open the door for annexation of the West Bank

    Where would Palestinians go under Netanyahu’s plan? Well, if the Israeli prime minister shares Donald Trump’s vision of redeveloping Gaza as some sort of Middle Eastern “riviera”, they’d be dispersed into countries such as Egypt and Jordan.

    This idea is a non-starter, writes Scott Lucas of University College Dublin. Lucas, a Middle East expert who has written regularly for us about Israel and Gaza and answered our questions about the situation. He says Egyptian president, Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has definitively ruled out accepting a mass exodus of Palestinians via the Rafah crossing at Gaza’s southern end. And Jordan is equally unwilling to accept any more Palestinian refugees. Apart from anything else, it already has about 3 million.

    As Lucas writes: “Any Arab government that takes in Gazans, even amid a humanitarian crisis, would be tacitly burying the idea of a Palestinian state. That would break a 77-year-old principle and resurrect the Nakba – the forced displacement and ethnic cleansing of Palestinians in 1948.”

    Israel is unlikely to get much international support for such a move either, Lucas adds. Donald Trump is preoccupied with other things and, even if he weren’t, the rest of the international community would hardly stand for what would probably be seen as an act of ethnic cleansing on a massive scale.



    Read more:
    What does Netanyahu’s plan for ‘conquering’ Gaza mean for Israel, Palestine and their neighbours? Expert Q&A

    But what do ordinary Israelis think of their government’s plans for Gaza? For most Israelis the paramount factor is their security. So far the Netanyahu government’s actions in Gaza had enjoyed majority suppport for that reason and in the hope that somehow the conflict might lead to getting the remaining hostages home.

    But the latest plan to take Gaza completely could scupper any hope of repatriating the hostages. And there are signs that many Israelis are getting tired of the constant crisis and conflict. There appears to be a growing appetite for peace.

    Or so writes Yuval Katz of Loughborough University, who grew up in Israel but left eight years ago to pursue an academic career. He was recently home for the first time in two years and spent time contacting peace groups. Here is what he found.



    Read more:
    Israel’s peace movement offers a ray of hope amid the pain of Gaza conflict

    World Affairs Briefing from The Conversation UK is available as a weekly email newsletter. Click here to get updates directly in your inbox.

    – ref. India-Pakistan: escalating conflict between two nuclear powers – https://theconversation.com/india-pakistan-escalating-conflict-between-two-nuclear-powers-256277

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    May 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Votes to Codify President Trump’s Gulf of America Executive Order

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Johnson (LA-04)

    House Votes to Codify President Trump’s Gulf of America Executive Order

    Washington, May 8, 2025

    WASHINGTON — Speaker Johnson released the following statement after the House passed H.R.276, the Gulf of America Act.

    “President Trump’s America First agenda puts our country first in every way. Today, the House voted to permanently rename the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America. I want to thank Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene for leading the charge on this legislation. This is one of the many steps House Republicans are taking to codify President Trump’s agenda into law, and there is much more to come.” 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department Announces Results of Operation Restore Justice: 205 Child Sex Abuse Offenders Arrested in FBI-Led Nationwide Crackdown, Including Two in the District of Hawaii

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    HONOLULU – Today, the Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Restore Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track and arrest child sex predators. The operation resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of 205 child sexual abuse offenders in the nationwide crackdown. The coordinated effort was executed over the course of five days by all 55 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section in the Department’s Criminal Division, and United States Attorney’s Offices around the country.

    “The Department of Justice will never stop fighting to protect victims — especially child victims — and we will not rest until we hunt down, arrest, and prosecute every child predator who preys on the most vulnerable among us,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “I am grateful to the FBI and their state and local partners for their incredible work in Operation Restore Justice and have directed my prosecutors not to negotiate.”

    “Every child deserves to grow up free from fear and exploitation, and the FBI will continue to be relentless in our pursuit of those who exploit the most vulnerable among us,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Operation Restore Justice proves that no predator is out of reach and no child will be forgotten. By leveraging the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state and local partners, we’re sending a clear message: there is no place to hide for those who prey on children.”

    “Our pledge to protect Hawaii’s keiki is among the most solemn and critical commitments we make to our local community,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Ken Sorenson. “Working with our outstanding law enforcement partners we have consistently and aggressively pursued child predators and those who seek to exploit children either for profit or their own twisted gratification. Our efforts in Operation Restore Justice, including last week’s arrests, demonstrate the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s commitment to investigate, charge, and convict those who violate federal child protection laws.”

    “The FBI is unwavering and united with its partners in the fight to protect children,” said FBI Honolulu Special Agent in Charge David Porter. “Our collaboration with state and local law enforcement allows us to extend our reach into communities, respond faster to threats, and ensure survivors get the support they need. FBI Honolulu will continue to conduct proactive arrest operations targeting those seeking to harm our children—we’ll work to get these predators off the streets and keep our kids safe.”

    In the District of Hawaii, two individuals were arrested and charged with federal crimes, including Dominick Kalikokaeoeo Howard, who was charged by criminal complaint with distributing child pornography, and David Martin Garcia Perez, who was charged by criminal complaint with receiving and possessing or accessing child pornography.

    Others arrested around the country are alleged to have committed various crimes including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material, online enticement and transportation of minors, and child sex trafficking. In Minneapolis, for example, a state trooper and Army Reservist was arrested for allegedly producing child sexual abuse material while wearing his uniforms. In Norfolk, VA, an illegal alien from Mexico is accused of transporting a minor across state lines for sex. In Washington, D.C., a former Metropolitan Police Department Police Officer was arrested for allegedly trafficking minor victims.

    In many cases, parental vigilance and community outreach efforts played a critical role in bringing these offenders to justice. For example, a California man was arrested about eight hours after a young victim bravely came forward and disclosed their abuse to FBI agents after an online safety presentation at a school near Albany, N.Y.

    This effort follows the Department’s observance of National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April, and underscores the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and raising awareness about the dangers they face. While the Department, including the FBI, investigates and prosecutes these crimes every day, April serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preventing these crimes, seeking justice for victims, and raising awareness through community education.

    The Justice Department is committed to combating child sexual exploitation. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org.

    The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI’s tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office.

    Other online resources:

    Electronic Press Kit

    Violent Crimes Against Children

    How we can help you: Parents and caregivers protecting your kids

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

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Donald Trump has reduced tariffs on British metals and cars, but how important is this trade deal? Experts react

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Maha Rafi Atal, Adam Smith Senior Lecturer in Political Economy, School of Social and Political Sciences, University of Glasgow

    The US president called it a “very big deal”. The UK prime minister said it was “fantastic, historic” day. For sure, Keir Starmer and his team will have been delighted that the UK was first in line to negotiate adjustments to Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs announced on “liberation day” just a few weeks ago. But what might the trade deal between the UK and US actually mean? We asked four economic experts to respond to the Oval Office announcement.

    Wins for the UK are real, but limited

    Maha Rafi Atal, Adam Smith Senior Lecturer (Associate Professor) in Political Economy, University of Glasgow

    The new UK-US trade announcement is less a breakthrough than a careful balancing act – partial, tactical and politically calculated.

    Key UK wins are real but limited. Tariffs on British metals and autos are eased, thanks in part to the UK government acquisition of the Chinese-owned Scunthorpe steelmaking facility, removing a longstanding US objection. But even auto tariffs are only scaled back to the general baseline of 10% and not eliminated.

    Agriculture and tech remain the real stress points. The UK has granted market access to US agricultural products, including beef, but crucially without changing its food safety standards. This sidesteps a domestic political fight and avoids undermining the UK’s Northern Ireland arrangements or its EU alignment. Still, if US beef doesn’t meet those standards, the market access may prove meaningless in practice – setting up future pressure points.

    Perhaps the most notable UK win: it retains its digital services tax on US tech giants. That tax hits Silicon Valley hard, and the US wanted it gone. Instead, the announcement punts this to future talks – holding the line for now, but not securing it permanently.

    This isn’t the long-anticipated UK-US free trade agreement. It’s not a treaty, not comprehensive, and not ratified. It’s a limited, executive-level arrangement with more questions than answers – and more negotiations to come.

    Stronger ties and badly needed growth to come

    David Collins, Professor of International Economic Law, City St George’s, University of London

    This deal is an excellent development that should help restore the UK-US trade relationship to what it was before President Trump took office for the second time. At the time of writing, few details about the arrangement are known. But the 25% tariff on UK steel and aluminium has been removed, as has the tariff rate on most car exports – from 27.5% to 10%

    The lower car rate applies to the first 100,000 vehicles exported from the UK to the US each year. Around 101,000 were exported last year.

    More details are promised in the coming days and weeks. Perhaps they will include an agreement which separates the UK from any restrictions that the US intends to impose on the film industry. In return, the UK might eliminate its digital services tax on the US (which I argue it should never have imposed because it will only raise prices for consumers and generate little revenue).

    But overall, it seems clear that the Labour government has prioritised the UK’s relationship with the EU, evidently seeking as close as possible a connection without formally rejoining. So, while this agreement with Trump is well short of a comprehensive free trade agreement, it is a welcome development that should strengthen Anglo-American ties and bring some badly needed economic growth to both countries.

    Political theatre for both sides

    Conor O’Kane, Senior Lecturer in Economics, University of Bournemouth

    This announcement is a framework for a trade deal rather than an actual formal completed agreement. Trade deals are detailed, complex and take many months to negotiate.

    The US and the UK are both countries with massive persistent structural trade deficits. It is very unlikely that what has been announced will significantly shift the dial on either country’s structural deficit or growth forecast.

    Jerome Powell, chair of the US Federal Reserve, recently warned that Donald Trump’s tariff policy risked higher inflation and higher unemployment at the same time, what economists call “stagflation”. The president’s announcement will prove a welcome distraction from Powell’s comments.

    The deal should perhaps be viewed as symbolic. Trump’s US tariff policy has been chaotic to date and his administration finally has something they can point to as a win in the aftermath of “liberation day”.

    Of course, a trade deal is also a good news story for the Labour government after disappointing local elections. Prime Minister Keir Starmer can claim economic credibility by being first in line for a trade deal, perhaps cementing the “special relationship”.

    Mini-tariffs on UK cars.
    balipadma/Shutterstock

    However, is the US a reliable partner to sign a trade deal with? During his first term, Trump signed a free trade deal with Mexico and Canada (the 2020 United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, or USMCA – the successor to Nafta). At the time, he said the deal “will be fantastic for all”. But he subsequently reneged on it.

    There is also a wider strategic element to this. First, the US wanted to get a trade deal in place with the UK ahead of what looks like a comprehensive EU-UK trade deal coming down the line. Second, Trump sees the EU as an economic rival. By signing a deal with the UK, he is signalling to other European countries the possibility of a potentially better trading relationship with the US outside of the EU.

    Deal leaves the door open for EU relationship

    Sangeeta Khorana, Professor of International Trade Policy, Aston University

    The agreement is a tactical win for both countries. It eases trade frictions, supports key industries and sets the framework for a broader UK-US free trade agreement without impacting on the UK’s economic reset with the European Union.

    The UK–US agreement, which suspends some of Trump’s recent tariffs, is sector-specific and far from comprehensive. It preserves UK food safety and animal-welfare standards. And it safeguards post-Brexit EU links while allowing the UK to cement its strategic partnership with Washington. Talks will be launched on aerospace, advanced batteries, data flows and services liberalisation within 12 months.

    This is a timely coup, coming so soon after the India deal. The pact represents a strategic diplomatic gain that brings tariff relief (and potentially the associated uncertainty) for key British industries, while also preserving UK’s regulatory alignment with the EU.

    Maha Rafi Atal is sometimes a volunteer organiser for the US Democratic party/candidates and has no party affiliation or involvement in the UK.

    Sangeeta Khorana is Professor and endowed Chair of International Trade Policy at Aston University.

    Conor O’Kane and David Collins do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Donald Trump has reduced tariffs on British metals and cars, but how important is this trade deal? Experts react – https://theconversation.com/donald-trump-has-reduced-tariffs-on-british-metals-and-cars-but-how-important-is-this-trade-deal-experts-react-256240

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    May 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dingell Joins Bipartisan Public Lands Caucus as Vice-Chair

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (12th District of Michigan)

    Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) joined a bipartisan group of her House colleagues in launching the Public Lands Caucus, a Congressional coalition focused on conserving America’s public lands and expanding access for all Americans. Rep. Dingell will serve as Vice-Chair of the Caucus, along with Co-Chairs Reps. Gabe Vasquez (D-NM-02), Ryan Zinke (R-MT-01), and Vice-Chair Rep. Mike Simpson (R-ID-02). 

    The Public Lands Caucus is founded on the belief that public lands are “for the benefit and enjoyment of the people.” It will bring lawmakers from both sides of the aisle to advance practical, consensus-driven public lands policy that conserves natural resources while supporting recreation, local economies, and public access. Caucus members are committed to bridging ideological divides and advancing pragmatic solutions to protect and manage public lands.

    “We should be focusing on expanding public access to federal lands, not auctioning them off. And we should be investing in our National Parks System and National Wildlife Refuges, not making it harder for Americans to visit these special places,” said Vice-Chair Rep. Debbie Dingell. “I’m proud to be Vice-Chair of the Public Lands Caucus because conservation has historically been, and should continue to be, a bipartisan priority. I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to protect our precious natural resources, federal lands, and beloved species.” 

    “Public lands are where I learned to fish, hunt, and connect with my family and culture—and those experiences shaped who I am,” said Co-Chair Rep. Gabe Vasquez (D-NM-02). “These lands don’t belong to one party or one group of people; they belong to all of us. The Public Lands Caucus is about protecting that birthright—bringing Democrats and Republicans together to preserve access, defend conservation, and invest in the outdoor economy that powers rural communities like mine in southern New Mexico. This is personal for me, and I’m proud to lead this bipartisan effort to keep our public lands in public hands.”

    “I follow the Theodore Roosevelt motto that public lands are ‘for the benefit and enjoyment of the people,’ and that means making sure we both conserve and manage those lands to ensure public access for the next generation,” said Co-Chair Ryan Zinke (R-MT-02). “Public lands aren’t red or blue issues, it’s red, white and blue. The bipartisan Public Lands Caucus brings together lawmakers who don’t agree on much, but we agree on and are ready to work together to promote policies that advance conservation and public access. I look forward to working with Co-Chair Vasquez, the vice chairs, and all the members of this caucus so future generations can enjoy the same opportunities to hunt, hike, fish, make a living and enjoy our uniquely American heritage.”

    “Idahoans live in Idaho because we love our public lands,” said Vice-Chair Rep. Mike Simpson (R-ID-02). “This trend is common across the West, where public lands are a part of our daily lives. As a lifelong Idahoan and Chairman of the House Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee, I remain committed to preserving access to our public lands and defending our way of life. Being named Vice Chair of the Public Lands Caucus is an honor, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to ensure future generations can enjoy the same benefits that we do today. I’m thankful to Rep. Zinke for his leadership here.”

    “As someone born and raised in the Coachella Valley, I know how sacred our public lands are. Places like Joshua Tree and the new Chuckwalla National Monument are more than landscapes—they’re part of our identity, history, and culture,” said Rep. Raul Ruiz (D-CA-25) “Conserving public lands means protecting cultural heritage, preserving critical ecosystems, and expanding access to nature’s healing power, especially for underserved communities. I’ll continue fighting to ensure every family—no matter where they live—can experience the beauty, health, and enjoyment that public lands offer.”

    “Public land access is integral to Montana,” said Rep. Troy Downing (R-MT-02). “Montanans rely on the Treasure State’s more than 30 million acres of public lands to hunt, fish, recreate, graze their livestock, and so much more. I applaud Co-Chairs Zinke and Vasquez for their efforts and look forward to working with my colleagues to find common sense solutions that preserve my constituents’ access to this fundamentally American resource.”

    “As a representative of Coastal Virginia, I know how vital our public lands and waters are to our economy, our culture, and our quality of life – from supporting tourism and outdoor recreation to sustaining jobs and protecting natural habitats,” said Rep. Jen Kiggans (R-VA-02). “I’m proud to join the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus to bring a balanced, commonsense approach to protecting these resources. From our shorelines to our forests, we must ensure that future generations can enjoy and benefit from healthy and accessible public lands across the country for years to come.”

    View photos from the press conference here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: LEADER JEFFRIES ON HOUSE FLOOR: “AMERICA IS NOT DOWN WITH MTG”

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (8th District of New York)

    Washington, DC – Today, Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries spoke on the House Floor in opposition to the sycophantic bill put forward by Rubber Stamp Republicans to rename the Gulf of Mexico.

    JEFFRIES: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also thank the distinguished gentleman, my good friend from the great state of California, for his tremendous leadership and for pushing back against this bill. I urge a strong no against this silly, small-minded and sycophantic piece of legislation.

    When the American people woke up this morning, they could reasonably ask the question, what are their elected representatives on the Floor of the House of Representatives going to be debating? In an environment where the Trump tariffs are costing them thousands of dollars more per year, Republicans are crashing the economy in real time, costs are being raised on hardworking American taxpayers and Republicans are driving us toward a painful recession. What might Members of Congress under this temporary Republican majority be debating on the floor today? Would it be legislation about the economy? Something about healthcare? Anything about Social Security? Perhaps something on public safety? Maybe national security matters? Anything to bring to life the American dream for hardworking American taxpayers? No? What Republicans have decided to spend this entire legislative day doing is to debate a bill to rename the Gulf of Mexico.

    Now, in some ways, I guess the American people can be thankful because this week, what Republicans were going to try and do was visit upon the American people the largest Medicaid cut in American history. And because Republicans are on the run, they were forced to take that hearing down. That battle’s not over. So in the absence of their ability to actually jam up hardworking American taxpayers, instead of focusing on things that would make a difference in the lives of the American people, we are here on the House floor more than 400 years after the fact, debating legislation to rename the Gulf of Mexico. 

    And it turns out there’s a lot more foolishness than this particular bill. Apparently, it’s not enough simply to try to rename the Gulf of Mexico. Republicans have introduced an act of Congress to express support for the designation of the first-ever Gulf of America Day. That ingenious piece of legislation was introduced by Representative Mark Alford of Missouri. At a time when Americans are struggling to live paycheck to paycheck, when we are grappling with the high cost of living, don’t worry, Republicans have a solution. Congressman Brandon Gill of Texas has your back with a bill to require the $100 note to include a portrait of Donald J. Trump. No thank you. Not to be outdone, Representative Joe Wilson of South Carolina has the Donald J. Trump $250 Bill Act. Really? Hard pass. 

    Flight travel has become more dangerous. We have an air traffic control crisis ongoing this week at a major airport in the northeast, central to a lot of the commerce and the functioning of the economy, an economy that Republicans are breaking in real time. What would be the Republican response to the situation in our skies? Representative Addison McDowell of the great state of North Carolina has a bill to designate Washington Dulles International Airport in Virginia as the Donald J. Trump International Airport. Did Virginia even vote for Donald Trump? Families are confronting thousands of dollars more per year in higher costs thanks to Donald Trump’s reckless tariffs. And instead of pushing back the President and Congress asserting our constitutional authority as it relates to tariffs and trade in the best interests of the American people—no—Republicans have a different approach. Here’s this gem from Representative Anna Paulina Luna of the great state of Florida. She’s got legislation to arrange for the carving of the figure of President Donald J. Trump on Mount Rushmore. Are we living in the times of King Nebuchadnezzar? What are we doing, folks?

    There are serious issues that the American people want us to confront. From the very beginning of this Congress, Democrats have said we will work with anyone to lower the high cost of living, to secure the border, to fix our broken immigration system, to protect communities, to stand up for the healthcare, the safety, the well-being, the national security of the American people. Republicans have no agenda other than the toxic agenda connected to their big ugly bill that they are trying to jam down the throats of the American people. And so when they have to run away from that and push it back, this is what we’re left with. Renaming the Gulf of Mexico, which 70% of the American people reject. That’s according to Fox News, that bastion of progressive politics. And so I’m here strongly urging a no vote against this small-minded, silly and sycophantic bill. And I can say without hesitation, reservation or need for clarification that America is not down with MTG. I yield back.

    Full remarks can be watched here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Mike Levin Delivers House Floor Speech Against Senseless Deportation of Constituents

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Levin (CA-49)

    May 08, 2025

    Rep. Mike Levin speaks about Gonzalez family deportation

    Washington, D.C.- Today, Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49) delivered a speech on the House Floor against the deportation of Laguna Niguel constituents, Gladys and Nelson Gonzalez, who were deported to Colombia in February despite living in the U.S. for 35 years, raising a family, paying taxes, and having no criminal record.

    Watch the full House Floor speech here. Full remarks below.  

    “M. Speaker, I rise today to speak for my constituents Gladys and Nelson Gonzalez.

    “Thirty-five years ago, they came to the United States from Colombia in search of a better life.

    “They tried to file for asylum but received bad legal advice from a now-disbarred attorney. 

    “They raised three daughters in Laguna Niguel, California, worked hard, paid taxes, and never got so much as a traffic ticket.

    “For decades, they checked in with ICE voluntarily and were allowed to stay in the country.

    “But this past February, while at their ICE appointment, they were detained, separated, and deported.

    “Why was a family with no criminal history, no gang affiliation, three children, a new grandchild, why were they a priority for deportation? 

    “We should be using our resources to remove dangerous individuals — not those contributing positively to our society and to our economy.

    “Not people like Nelson and Gladys Gonzalez.

    “I’m all for a secure border, but what we’re seeing today is not the America that I know.  

    “Thank you. And I yield back.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican National With Two Prior Deportations Charged For Illegally Reentering The United States

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LAS VEGAS – A Mexican national unlawfully residing in Las Vegas made his initial court appearance Wednesday to face charges of illegally reentering the United States after being removed from the country on two prior occasions. 

    Hilario Villegas-Espinoza, 52, is charged with one count of deported alien found in the United States. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for May 21, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Maximiliano D. Couvillier, III.

    According to allegations contained in the criminal complaint and statements made during court proceedings, Villegas-Espinoza is a citizen and national of Mexico who was previously deported and removed from the United States on November 4, 2009, and February 11, 2011, and reentered the United States illegally on or before September 3, 2020. 

    On September 3, 2020, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) learned that Villegas-Espinoza had been arrested by North Las Vegas Police for three counts Sexual Assault Against Child Less Than 14 and four counts Lewdness by Person Over 18 with Child Less Than 14, in North Las Vegas, Nevada. On April 22, 2025, Villegas-Espinoza was remanded to ICE custody from the Nevada Department of Corrections, based on an immigration detainer. Villegas-Espinoza has a 2010 felony conviction in the United States District Court for the Western District of Texas, of Illegal Reentry After Deportation.

    If convicted, Villegas-Espinoza faces the maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison, a three-year term of supervised release, a $250,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment.

    United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Salt Lake City Field Office Director Michael Bernacke made the announcement. 

    The ICE Salt Lake City, Las Vegas Sub-Office investigated the case; and the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada is prosecuting the case.

    Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

    A complaint is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    ###

     

     

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wicker, Gillibrand Introduce Vieques Recovery and Redevelopment Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Mississippi Roger Wicker

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Roger Wicker, R-Miss., and Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., introduced the Vieques Recovery and Redevelopment Act. This bipartisan legislation would address the severe health inequities faced by the residents of Vieques off the coast of Puerto Rico. These severe health outcomes are a result of environmental contamination caused by the U.S. Navy’s decades-long usage of the island for military training exercises and as a bombing range.

    “The U.S. Navy left the island of Vieques over twenty years ago, but the thousands of American citizens who live there continue to suffer from contamination and high rates of illness,” said Senator Wicker. “It is time for the U.S. government to settle these victims’ claims and help improve the island’s healthcare infrastructure for the future.”

    “For too long, the people of Vieques have lived with the devastating health and environmental impacts of military testing on their island,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This bill delivers long overdue justice by providing compensation to those harmed, rebuilding access to healthcare, and strengthening efforts to clean up the toxic waste that continues to threaten the Vieques community. I’m proud to help lead this bipartisan effort to finally give the people of Vieques the support and resources they deserve.”

    Full text of the resolution can be found here. 

    Background:

    • From the 1940s until 2003, the U.S. Navy used the island for training exercises and as a bombing range.
    • Decades of munitions testing on the small island led to severe environmental contamination. Vieques’ residents have suffered from the health impacts of long-term exposure to this environmental contamination, including higher rates of cancer, cirrhosis, hypertension, diabetes, and heavy metal diseases.
    • To date, the U.S. government has not provided the residents of Vieques with compensation for damages to their health. Hurricane Maria destroyed Vieques’ only health care center in 2017, exacerbating the island’s health crisis.
    • Today, residents of Vieques must travel by ferry to the main island of Puerto Rico to receive medical care, a dangerous situation that is especially difficult for cancer and dialysis patients. The health crisis in Vieques only continues to worsen, demonstrating why Congress must act with urgency to pass this bipartisan legislation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Video: Texas National Guard Soldiers continue to support southern border operations

    Source: US National Guard (video statements)

    Texas National Guard Soldiers work with U.S. Border Patrol agents along the Rio Grande and U.S. – Mexico border near Roma, Texas, as part of Operation Lone Star, April 23, 2025. Operation Lone Star is a Texas National Guard mission to deter, detect, and interdict illegal border crossings and transnational criminal activity along the southern border. (U.S. Air Force video by Master Sgt. Amber Monio)

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JsDF9GHCAEw

    MIL OSI Video –

    May 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AMERICA/PERU – “No matarás”: the country’s bishops condemn the murder of a group of workers at the hands of criminal gangs

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Thursday, 8 May 2025

    Internet

    Lima (Agenzia Fides) – “As a Church, we reaffirm our call to build a society in which life is respected and the dignity of every person is protected, and development is accompanied by justice, honesty, and charity,” said the Peruvian Bishops (CEP) in a joint statement condemning the murder of 13 workers kidnapped on April 25 in the town of Pataz, in the La Libertad region.”We feel deep pain and dismay at these criminal acts of organized crime, which are deeply damaging to human dignity and social peace,” emphasized Carlos García Camader, President of the Bishops’ Conference and Bishop of Lurín, in the statement.The victims are believed to have been murdered by criminal gangs linked to illegal mining.The bishops not only expressed their solidarity with the victims’ families and assured them of their prayers, but also strongly condemned the murders and called on the judicial authorities to speed up the investigations and ensure a fair trial.”Do not let yourselves be robbed of hope,” Bishop Camader appealed to Peruvians, quoting Pope Francis. He urged them not to give in to despair and emphasized that even in the midst of pain, it is possible to work for a more just and fraternal country. In recent months, the Peruvian government has extended the state of emergency in the capital, Lima, and the constitutional province of Callao for 30 days, starting on April 17, 2025. This is the first time since 2022. A total of 459 people were killed between January 1 and March 16, according to police, who registered 1,909 extortion charges in January aloneThe Bishops’ Conference reiterated its commitment to defending life and peace in the country. (AP) (Agenzia Fides, 8/5/2025)
    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    May 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Middle District Of Florida Prosecutors Charge 125 Defendants With Immigration-Related Offenses During Second Quarter Of 2025

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Tampa, FL – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces today that federal prosecutors have charged 125 defendants with immigration-related offenses during the second quarter of fiscal year 2025, ending March 31, 2025. More than 100 of the defendants were charged by grand jury indictments and the others were charged by criminal complaint. One hundred nineteen of the defendants were charged with illegally reentering the United States. 

    During the same period, 58 cases were resolved by guilty pleas, and 62 defendants were sentenced for illegal reentry or other immigration-related offenses. 

    “The United States Attorney’s Office is committed to enforcing federal immigration laws,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe. “We will continue to work with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to aggressively investigate and prosecute anyone who illegally enters the United States or violates our nation’s laws.”

    These newly charged 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 Neighborhoods (PSN).

    Q2 FY 2025 Highlights

    U.S. v. Horus Samuel Marquez Villatoro

    In March 2025, Horus Samuel Marquez Villatoro, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced to three years and nine months in federal prison for illegal reentry by a removed alien and for possession of a firearm and ammunition by an alien illegally in the United States. According to court documents, Marquez Villatoro was removed from the United States on three previous occasions before reentering unlawfully sometime after 2019. In January 2024, he was found in Hillsborough County in possession of a Glock 17 9mm pistol, an extended magazine, and more than 100 rounds of ammunition.

    U.S. v. Ricardo Fermin Sune-Giron

    In March 2025, Ricardo Fermin Sune-Giron, a citizen of Guatemala, who was living in the United States illegally under an assumed name, was sentenced to 14 years in federal prison for conspiracy to traffic in firearms, firearms trafficking, dealing in firearms without a license, and possessing firearms as an illegal alien. According to court documents, between 2023 and April 2024, Sune-Giron was a member of a large-scale firearms trafficking operation. He recruited straw purchasers to illegally buy firearms—including Glocks, rifles and AK-47s—from licensed federal firearms dealers across Florida. After obtaining the firearms, Sune-Giron and his co-conspirators smuggled them overseas, shipping them to countries including the Dominican Republic and Haiti. Between 2023 and 2024, Sune-Giron and his co-conspirators trafficked more than 1,000 firearms. Several of these firearms were later recovered at crime scenes. In April 2024, ATF and HSI agents in Tampa and Orlando executed three coordinated search warrants at three residences in the Orlando area, including Sune-Giron’s residence. There they recovered approximately 57 firearms, 30 empty gun boxes, approximately $16,000 in cash, ammunition, and money counters.

    U.S. v. Elmer Edin Chavarria-Morales

    In March 2025, Elmer Edini Chavarria-Morales, a citizen of Honduras, was sentenced to 3 years and 10 months in federal prison for illegal reentry into the United States after removal. According to court records, Chavarria-Morales was convicted of rape in Indiana state court in 2018 and was deported from the United States later that year. Chavarria-Morales reentered the United States and was convicted of illegal reentry in the Southern District of Texas in 2021. Chavarria-Morales was removed to Honduras again in November 2022. In April 2024, Chavarria-Morales was again found in the United States after he was arrested by the Daytona Beach Police Department for a domestic violence assault.

    U.S. v. Yudelkis Portes

    In February 2025, Yudelkis Portes, a citizen of the Dominican Republic, was sentenced to three years and one month in federal prison for illegal reentry into the United States after removal. According to court documents, Portes was convicted of conspiracy to commit access device fraud and aggravated identity theft in February 2013 and deported from the United States to the Dominican Republic. Following her deportation, Portes illegally reentered the United States and was found in the Middle District of Florida.

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Assessing the U.S. Climate in April 2025

    Source: US National Oceanographic Data Center

    Key Points:

    • A slow-moving storm system in early April brought widespread flooding and over 150 tornadoes to the South and Midwest, resulting in numerous injuries and at least 24 fatalities.
    • April temperatures were particularly warm across the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic, with near-record warmth observed in the Carolinas and neighboring states.
    • Alaska had its second-wettest April on record and its fourth-warmest year to date.
    • Heavy rain in Puerto Rico in late April triggered flash flooding and landslides.
    Map of the U.S. selected significant climate anomalies and events in April 2025.

    Other Highlights:

    Temperature

    April U.S. Mean Temperature Departures from Average Map

    The average temperature for the contiguous U.S. (CONUS) in April was 53.6°F, which is 2.6°F above the long-term average and ranks in the warmest third of the 131-year record. April temperatures were above average across much of the Lower 48, with much-above-average warmth observed across the South and Atlantic coastal regions. North Carolina and Virginia observed their second-warmest average April temperatures on record, with South Carolina and Georgia recording their third- and fourth-warmest (tied), respectively. For the year to date, the CONUS average temperature was 41.1°F, 2.0°F above average, ranking in the warmest third of the record for this January–April period.

    The Alaska statewide April temperature was 27.5°F, 4.2°F above the long-term average, ranking in the warmest third of the 101-year period of record. While temperatures were near average across much of western Alaska in April, above-average warmth dominated the eastern part of the state. Alaska’s January–April average temperature was 17.8°F, 7.5°F above the long-term average, ranking as the fourth warmest on record, with much of the state experiencing much-above-average temperatures during this period.

    Hawai’i had an average temperature of 65.9°F in April, 1.1°F above the 1991–2020 average and ranking in the warmest third of the 35-year record. Hawai’i had its second-warmest (tied) January–April average temperature of 64.8°F, 1.1°F above the 1991–2020 average for this period.

    Precipitation

    April 2025 U.S. Total Precipitation Percentiles

    April precipitation for the CONUS was 2.82 inches, 0.30 inch above average, ranking in the upper third of the historical record. Drier-than-average conditions were observed from the West to the central Rockies, and along parts of the Gulf and Atlantic coastal regions. Conversely, above-average precipitation fell across a broad area stretching from the southern Plains through the middle Mississippi Valley into the Ohio Valley and lower Great Lakes, as well as in portions of the northern Plains, upper Mississippi Valley and far Northeast. Kentucky recorded its second-highest average rainfall for the month of April, while Oklahoma and Missouri saw their third- and fourth-wettest Aprils, respectively. The January–April precipitation total for the CONUS was 8.77 inches, 0.70 inch below average, ranking in the driest third of the record for this period.

    Alaska’s average precipitation in April ranked as the second wettest in the 101-year record, with particularly wet conditions along the Gulf of Alaska coast and the northern Southeast region. Near-record-high snowfall was observed at the Alyeska (36.6 inches) and Denali National Park (26.5 inches) stations—these totals were the second-highest on record for April. The January–April precipitation total for Alaska was 10.97 inches, 1.80 inches above average, ranking in the wettest third on record for the period

    Precipitation averaged across Hawai’i in April totaled 4.11 inches, 0.90 inch below average, ranking in the middle third of the 1991–2025 record. Drier-than-average conditions were mostly observed on the eastern portions of Moloka’i, Maui and the Big Island, while most other areas experienced above-average rainfall. Precipitation across Hawai’i for January–April was 15.65 inches, 6.42 inches below average, ranking in the driest third of the 1991–2025 record.

    Drought

    According to the April 29 U.S. Drought Monitor report, approximately 37.0% of the contiguous U.S. was in drought, down about 6.4% from the beginning of the month. Drought conditions expanded or intensified across parts of the Southwest, southern Rockies, northern High Plains, Florida and Hawai’i. Meanwhile, drought contracted or was reduced in intensity across much of the central U.S., parts of southern Appalachia and the Great Lakes region.

    Monthly Outlook

    Much of the country is expected to be warmer than average in May, from the Rockies eastward to the Atlantic and southward to the Gulf Coast. Above-average precipitation is favored in parts of the West and Rockies, and is likely across the southern Plains, while drier-than-average conditions are expected in the upper Mississippi Valley and Great Lakes region.

    Drought conditions in May are likely to persist across the Southwest and northern Plains, with some improvement in the central Great Basin. Portions of the southern and central Plains should see some drought improvement and areas of removal, but the upper Mississippi Valley can expect some areas of drought development. Drought will likely persist and expand across the Carolinas and western Virginia; conditions in some areas further northeast are expected to improve.

    Visit the Climate Prediction Center’s Official 30-Day Forecasts and U.S. Monthly Drought Outlook website for more details.

    Significant wildland fire potential for May is above normal for parts of the Southwest and upper Mississippi Valley, and from the Mid-Atlantic coastal regions down to Florida. For additional information on wildland fire potential, visit the National Interagency Fire Center’s One-Month Wildland Fire Outlook.

    For more detailed climate information, check out our comprehensive April 2025 U.S. Climate Report scheduled for release on May 12, 2025. For additional information on the statistics provided here, visit the Climate at a Glance and National Maps webpages.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Wallet Launches Full Support for Sei Network, Announces $700K Ecosystem Initiative

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget Wallet, a leading Web3 non-custodial wallet, now offers full support for the Sei network — expanding its multi-chain capabilities and making it easier for users globally to access and interact with the Sei ecosystem.

    With this integration, Bitget Wallet now supports native Sei token transfers, in-app trading, and live price tracking. Users can bridge assets from major blockchains like Solana and BNB Chain into Sei through Bitget Wallet’s cross-chain infrastructure, which spans over 30 networks. Trading is powered by Super DEX, Bitget Wallet’s aggregator connecting liquidity across more than 130 blockchains — allowing users to securely access the Sei ecosystem and interact with other networks from a single wallet interface.

    “We’re excited to support direct access to Sei through Bitget Wallet,” said Alvin Kan, COO of Bitget Wallet. “By making Sei more accessible to our global user base, we’re not only expanding the reach of one of the fastest-growing L1 networks, but also reinforcing our mission to make Web3 simpler, faster, and more rewarding for everyone.“

    Sei is a Layer-1 blockchain combining the best of Ethereum and Solana — the developer tooling, mindshare, and network effects of the EVM, with the performance and scalability of next-generation blockchains like Solana. Its architecture achieves block finality in under 400 milliseconds, making it one of the fastest blockchains currently available.”Expanding user access and improving ecosystem onboarding are key priorities,” said Justin Barlow, Executive Director at Sei Development Foundation. “This integration with Bitget Wallet lowers the barriers for users to explore and interact with applications across the network.“

    As part of the rollout, Sei Ecosystem Month — a $700,000 initiative — is being launched to spotlight applications building on Sei and drive ecosystem engagement. The program will include trading competitions, quest-based activities, and new product experiences, all accessible through the Bitget Wallet app.

    For more information, visit the Bitget Wallet blog and Bitget Wallet Sei Ecosystem Month website.

    About Sei

    Sei is a Layer-1 blockchain that combines the advantages of Ethereum and Solana: the dominant development standard of Ethereum with the performance of Solana. Sei launched its mainnet in 2023, and has since processed billions of transactions across more than 18 million wallets. Currently on Devnet, Sei’s V3 Giga update will make Sei 50x more performant than any existing EVM chain, serving as a groundbreaking new scaling approach for the Ethereum ecosystem. The team is backed by Multicoin, Jump, Coinbase Ventures, and many more

    To learn more about Sei, please visit https://www.sei.io/

    About Bitget Wallet
    Bitget Wallet is a non-custodial crypto wallet designed to make crypto simple, secure, and accessible for everyone. With over 60 million users, it brings together a full suite of crypto services, including swaps, market insights, staking, rewards, a DApp browser, and crypto payment solutions. Supporting 130+ blockchains, 20,000+ DApps, and a million tokens, Bitget Wallet enables seamless multi-chain trading across hundreds of DEXs and cross-chain bridges. Backed by a $300+ million user protection fund, it ensures the highest level of security for users’ assets.
    For more information, visit: X | Telegram | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn | TikTok | Discord | Facebook
    For media inquiries, contact media.web3@bitget.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/43f5d030-7803-4dfa-9749-14c9ab517325

    The MIL Network –

    May 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Ricketts Promotes Renewable Fuels and Nebraska’s Farmers During Press Call

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Pete Ricketts (Nebraska)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) highlighted his efforts to promote renewable fuels and Nebraska’s farmers during his weekly press call. Ricketts recently led a resolution declaring May 2025 as Renewable Fuels Month in America. He spoke with members of Nebraska press about the resolution:
    “Nebraska farmers fuel the world through the production of renewable fuels like ethanol and biodiesel,” said Ricketts. “Renewable fuels save consumers money at the pump and support Nebraska agriculture. They clean our environment and support American energy security.”
    Ricketts also underscored the cost savings renewable fuels provide Nebraskan families.
    “Biofuels save consumers money at the pump,” continued Ricketts. “Last time I filled up at Hy-Vee, I saved 55 cents per gallon with E10 compared to the regular 89 octane. That’s saving money at the pump. That’s real relief.”
    In addition, Ricketts described the economic benefits of biofuels for Nebraska’s farmers. Nebraska’s 25 ethanol plants have capacity to make nearly 2.2 billion gallons of biofuel each year. These plants provide more than 1,300 good-paying jobs with an annual economic impact of more than $6 billion.
    TRANSCRIPT:
    Senator Ricketts: “Thank you very much for joining this press call today. 
    “Nebraska farmers fuel the world through the production of renewable fuels like ethanol and biodiesel. 
    “Renewable fuels save consumers money at the pump and support Nebraska agriculture. 
    “They clean our environment and support American energy security. 
    “That’s why I introduced a bipartisan resolution designating May 2025 as Renewable Fuels Month in America. 
    “As Governor, you may recall I did that a lot for the state of Nebraska. We’re doing it for America now.
    “My resolution celebrates Nebraska’s farmers, rural communities, and home-grown energy. 
    “Biofuels save consumers money at the pump. 
    “Nebraska drivers saved at least $325 million last year by using ethanol blends like E10 and E15. 
    “During the summer months, drivers can save more than 30 cents per gallon. 
    “Owners of flex fuel vehicles, which can run on blends up to E85, can save even more. 
    “Last time I filled up at Hy-Vee, I saved 55 cents per gallon when I filled up with E10 compared to the regular 89 octane.  
    “That’s saving money at the pump.
    “That’s real relief. 
    “Biofuels support Nebraska agriculture. 
    “Our state is America’s second-largest ethanol producer. 
    “Our 25 ethanol plants have capacity to make nearly 2.2 billion gallons each year. 
    “These plants support more than 1,300 good-paying jobs. 
    “They bring an annual economic impact of more than $6 billion dollars. 
    “Biofuels help local farmers get better prices for their corn and soybeans. 
    “A typical dry mill ethanol plant adds nearly 50% more value to every bushel of corn processed last year. 
    “That’s value-added agriculture. 
    “These fuels help drive our economy forward. 
    “Biofuels can help clean our environment. 
    “Ethanol reduces greenhouse gas emissions by 44% to 52% compared to regular gasoline. 
    “E15 also reduces other pollutants like carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulates.
    “That means cleaner air for our communities. 
    “Biofuels also support American energy security. 
    “The Renewable Fuels Association estimates that U.S.-produced ethanol displaced the need for 630 million barrels of imported oil in 2024. 
    “Using home-grown fuels means we rely less on authoritarian countries like Venezuela.
    “Authoritarian countries don’t share our values.
    “We should never depend on them for energy when we have proven solutions right here in Nebraska. 
    “This resolution is one of my many ways I’m supporting renewable fuels. 
    “I led the fight against Biden’s EV mandate. 
    “I introduced the Flex Fuel Fairness Act to expand access to flex fuel vehicles. 
    “I’m pushing to pass Senator Deb Fischer’s bill to allow year-round E15 sales nationwide. 
    “I introduced the Renewable Fuel for Ocean-Going Vessels Act with Democrat Senator Amy Klobuchar. 
    “That bipartisan bill helps biofuels power cargo ships and other large vessels. 
    “I also support the Farm to Fly Act, which will develop the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel. 
    “Consumers, producers, and industry would all benefit from these expanded opportunities. 
    “Nebraska’s biofuels producers help fuel America and the world. 
    “Every day is a good day to choose biofuels. 
    “As you get ready to hit the road this summer, consider filling up on E15. 
    “You’ll be supporting local producers, helping clean our environment, and promoting American energy security. 
    “You’ll also be saving money at the pump! 
    “Now that’s a win for everybody.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Meet four of this year’s Swift Student Challenge winners

    Source: Apple

    Headline: Meet four of this year’s Swift Student Challenge winners

    May 8, 2025

    UPDATE

    Local inspiration, global impact: Meet four of this year’s Swift Student Challenge winners

    Every year, the Swift Student Challenge invites students from around the world to follow their curiosity and explore their creativity through original app playgrounds built with Apple’s intuitive, easy-to-learn Swift coding language. From a starry sky glimpsed through a telescope in Nuevo León, Mexico, to a pack of cards discovered in a Japanese game shop, the inspirations behind this year’s 350 winning submissions span the globe, representing 38 countries and regions, and incorporating a wide range of tools and technologies.

    “We’re always inspired by the talent and perspective young developers bring to the Swift Student Challenge,” said Susan Prescott, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide Developer Relations. “This year’s winners show exceptional skill in transforming meaningful ideas into app playgrounds that are innovative, impactful, and thoughtfully built — and we’re excited to support their journey as they continue building apps that will help shape the future.”

    Fifty Distinguished Winners have been invited to attend the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) at Apple Park, where they’ll take part in a specially curated three-day experience. Over the course of the week, the winners will have the opportunity to watch the Keynote live on June 9, learn from Apple experts and engineers, and participate in labs.

    Many of this year’s winners took inspiration from their local communities, creating powerful tools that are designed to make an impact on a global scale. Below, Distinguished Winners Taiki Hamamoto, Marina Lee, Luciana Ortiz Nolasco, and Nahom Worku delve into their app playgrounds and the real-world problems they’re aiming to solve, demonstrating the power of coding to drive lasting change.

    When Taiki Hamamoto, 22, came across a Hanafuda deck at his local game shop, he was intrigued. He had grown up playing the traditional Japanese card game with family members, and he thought it’d be easy to recruit friends for a nostalgic round or two — but that wasn’t the case.

    “I found that very few people in my generation know how to play Hanafuda, despite it being such a staple in Japanese culture,” explains Hamamoto, a recent graduate of the Prefectural University of Kumamoto. “I thought if there was a way to make it easy to play on a smartphone, it might be possible to spread Hanafuda, not only in Japan but also to the world.”

    Through his winning app playground, Hanafuda Tactics, novices can get familiar with the game’s rules and the cards themselves. The colorful, ornate 48-card decks, inspired by Japan’s reverence for nature, are divided into 12 suits — one for each month of the year — and each illustrated by a seasonal plant. There are many ways to play, but one of the most popular variations is Koi-Koi, where players try to form special card combinations known as yaku.

    While Hamamoto stayed true to the game’s classic floral iconography, he also added a modern touch to the gameplay experience, incorporating video game concepts like hit points (HP) that resonate with younger generations. SwiftUI’s DragGesture helped him implement dynamic, highly responsive effects like cards tilting and glowing during movement, making the gameplay feel natural and engaging. He’s also experimenting with making Hanafuda Tactics playable on Apple Vision Pro.

    The idea that a centuries-old game could one day disappear is unthinkable for Hamamoto, who’s gotten so much joy from it. “Hanafuda is unique in that it allows you to experience the scenery and culture of Japan,” he says. “I want users of my app to feel immersed in it, and I want to preserve the game for generations to come.”

    With wildfires spreading quickly across much of Los Angeles earlier this year, Marina Lee, 21, got a harrowing phone call. Her grandmother — a resident of the San Gabriel Valley — had received an evacuation alert, and had little time to decide what to do or where to go.

    “As someone who grew up in L.A., I’ve always been aware of the wildfire risks and the realities that come with natural disasters,” says Lee, a third-year computer science student at the University of Southern California, who was spending winter break with her parents in Northern California at the time. “But with this phone call, the urgency really hit home. My grandma was panicked, unsure what to pack, or how to stay prepared and informed. That inspired me to create an app for people like her, who might not be as tech-savvy but deserve an accessible, trustworthy resource in times of crisis.”

    Through the app playground EvacuMate, users can prepare an emergency checklist of important items to pack for an evacuation. Lee integrated the iPhone camera roll into the app so users can upload copies of important documents, and added the ability to import emergency contacts through their iPhone contacts list. She also included resources on topics like checking air quality levels and assembling a first-aid kit.

    As Lee continues to refine EvacuMate, she’s focused on ensuring that the app is accessible to everyone who might want to use it. “I’d like to add support for different languages,” Lee explains. “Thinking back to my grandma, she’s not as comfortable reading English, and I realized a translation feature could really help others in the community who face the same challenge.”

    Heading into WWDC, Lee’s looking forward to fostering new connections with fellow developers, like the kinds she’s made hosting hackathons with her organization Citro Tech, or serving as a mentor for USC Women in Engineering. “Coding is so much more than just developing software,” she says. “It’s really the friendships you build, the community you find, and the problem-solving journey that empower you to make a difference.”

    Luciana Ortiz Nolasco was thrilled when she was presented with a telescope for her 11th birthday. Every night, she’d peer through her bedroom window to explore the sky over her home state of Nuevo León, Mexico.

    But there were two issues she quickly encountered: first, the thick layer of smog that hung over the heavily industrialized city, obscuring the stars and their brilliance, and second, a lack of fellow enthusiasts to geek out with.

    “I didn’t find a community till I joined the Astronomical Society of Nuevo León,” shares Ortiz Nolasco, now 15. On the weekends, through the connections she made at the society, she’d travel to the countryside to see the stars more clearly, attending camps and learning from mentors who shared her passion. These experiences sparked her interest in making astronomy even more accessible to others.

    Her app playground BreakDownCosmic is a virtual gathering place where users can add upcoming astronomical events around the world to their calendars, earn medals for accomplishing “missions,” and chat with fellow astronomers about what they see.

    Ortiz Nolasco found the ideal tool for bringing her idea to life with the Swift programming language. “Swift is very easy to learn, and using Xcode is very intuitive,” she explains. “Most of the time, it would correct me if I had an error. I didn’t have to spend time looking for hours and have it turn out to just be a small error I overlooked.”

    After attending WWDC in June, she plans to continue to develop BreakDownCosmic, with the ultimate goal of launching it on the App Store. “I want people to feel like they’re going on a journey through space when they log into my app,” she says. “The universe is full of mysteries we have yet to discover, and infinite possibilities. This journey is not just for some selected people. The universe is where we live. It’s our home, and everybody should be able to get to know it.”

    Growing up in Ethiopia and later in Canada, Nahom Worku felt pulled in two career directions: following in his uncle’s footsteps and becoming a pilot, or pursuing an engineering degree like his father. Ultimately, his fear of flying took the former profession off the table, but he still couldn’t decide on an engineering field to specialize in, until COVID-19 hit.

    “During the pandemic, I had a lot of time on my hands, so I bought a few books and discovered web design and coding,” says Worku, 21. He found a community in Black Kids Code, a nonprofit that helps kids learn math and coding, and eventually became a mentor himself.

    While assisting with a summer program at York University in Toronto, where he’s now a fourth-year student, Worku and his group were tasked with working on a United Nations Sustainable Development Goal that focuses on ensuring global access to quality education. For Worku, the project was eye-opening, as it connected back to his formative years. “Growing up in Ethiopia, I witnessed firsthand how many students lacked quality education,” he explains. “Additionally, many people either don’t have access to the Internet, or have issues with unreliable connections.”

    His app playground AccessEd is designed to tackle both of these issues, offering learning resources that are accessible with or without Wi-Fi connectivity. Built using Apple’s machine learning and AI tools, such as Core ML and the Natural Language framework, the app recommends courses based on a student’s background, creating a truly personalized experience.

    “Students can take a picture of their notes, and then the machine learning model analyzes the text using Apple’s Natural Language framework to create flash cards,” Worku says. “The app also has a task management system with notifications, as many students globally have a lot of homework and family responsibilities after school, so they often struggle with time management.”

    Worku hopes that AccessEd can unlock new possibilities for students around the world. “I hope my app will inspire others to explore how modern technologies like machine learning can be used in innovative ways, especially in education, and how they can make learning more engaging, effective, and enjoyable,” he says.

    Apple is proud to champion the next generation of developers, creators, and entrepreneurs through its annual Swift Student Challenge program. Over the past five years, thousands of program participants from all over the world have built successful careers, founded businesses, and created organizations focused on democratizing technology and using it to build a better future. Learn more at developer.apple.com/swift-student-challenge.

    Press Contacts

    Apple Media Helpline

    media.help@apple.com

    MIL OSI Economics –

    May 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: At a Glance – The Panama Canal: Panama’s sovereign rights under threat? – 08-05-2025

    Source: European Parliament 2

    President Donald Trump threatens that the US will take back the Panama Canal, a strategic maritime route for global trade, because of perceived Chinese influence in the Canal Zone. In fact, a Hong Kong-based private company owns two of the canal’s five port terminals at strategically important points. The Panama Canal is a key maritime trade route that handles about 40 % of US container traffic and approximately 5 % of world trade.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    May 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Basic research advances science, and can also have broader impacts on modern society

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Bruce J. MacFadden, Distinguished Professor Emeritus, University of Florida

    As charismatic animals, sharks can stimulate interest in science, research and technology. Florida Museum (Kristin Grace photo)

    It might seem surprising, but federal research funding isn’t just for scientists. A component of many federal grants that support basic research requires that discoveries be shared with nonscientists. This component, referred to as “broader impacts” by the National Science Foundation, can make a big difference for K-12 students and teachers, museumgoers, citizen scientists and other people interested in science, while also helping the scientists themselves give back to the taxpayers that fund their work.

    Basic research, often done because of a curious scientist’s interest, may not initially have a direct application, like developing the smartphone or curing a disease. But these discoveries build important knowledge in the natural sciences, engineering, mathematics and related disciplines.

    The U.S. is a world leader in scientific and technological innovation. On the federal level, the National Science Foundation, or NSF, is one of the primary funders of this kind of basic research. In 2022, the federal government funded 40% of all basic research done in the U.S., with the remainder coming from other sources, including the business sector.

    During World War II, President Franklin D. Roosevelt wanted to position the U.S. for strategic and economic leadership worldwide. He commissioned physicist Vannevar Bush to develop a vision for the future of U.S. science and technology. His 1945 report, “Science: the Endless Frontier,” became the blueprint for government-funded basic research. In 1950, Congress created the National Science Foundation to promote the progress of science, advance national prosperity and welfare and secure the national defense.

    Vannevar Bush historically said that ‘without scientific progress, no amount of achievement in other directions can insure our health, prosperity and security as a nation in the modern world.’
    Office for Emergency Management Defense

    During the early decades of NSF, the 1950s until the late 1990s, proposals were mostly evaluated based on the quality of the science and the scientists doing the work. But then, the foundation created a new system, still in place today.

    Thus, each NSF research proposal is now peer-reviewed based on two criteria: intellectual merit, or the quality and novelty of the science and track record of the research team, and “broader impacts” – related activities that disseminate the discoveries to general audiences.

    Intellectual merit is about advancing science knowledge and innovation, while broader impacts describe why people who aren’t scientists should care, and how society could benefit from this research.

    Another pragmatic aspect to broader impacts is that taxpayers pay for these activities, so it’s important for them, and Congress, to understand their return on investment. These broader impacts activities communicate about, and engage the public in, research in a variety of ways.

    While researchers usually understand the intellectual merit of their NSF-funded projects, these broader impacts can be challenging to characterize.

    Broader impact activities

    Since childhood, I’ve had an interest in paleontology — the study of fossils and what we can learn from them about prehistoric life. This field is primarily basic research — adding to knowledge about ancient life. As a scientist conducting basic research, I’ve felt the responsibility to give back to society through broader impacts activities, and I’ve seen many of the benefits that these activities can have.

    My primary area of interest has been extinct mammals of the Americas, particularly the 55-million-year-old record of fossil horses on this continent. For years, NSF supported my discoveries about this interesting group of animals. Fossil horses are a classic example of evolution — in books and museum exhibits.

    A fossil horse from the Ice Age on display at the Florida Museum. Fossil horses are a classic example of evolution — both in books and museum exhibits.
    Florida Museum (Mary Warrick photo)

    Many people are generally interested in horses, so it’s easy to attract their attention with this charismatic group. They also are often surprised to learn that prehistoric horses were native to North America for millions of years. Then, during historical times, they were first introduced by humans onto the continent about 500 years ago.

    Over the years, my research team has used grant-funded broader impact activities to teach people about these fossil horses and our research. One example included working with K-12 science teachers to develop lesson plans. The students measured fossil horse teeth and explored how their teeth adapted to feeding on grasses. We’ve also developed exhibits on fossil horses and studied how they communicate science to museum visitors.

    Science teachers have joined our fieldwork to collect fossils along the Panama Canal during its recent expansion. I’ve given many talks and collaborated with fossil clubs and their members throughout the U.S. We’ve also promoted projects like Fossils4Teachers where fossil collectors donated their fossils and worked alongside K-12 teachers to develop lesson plans that were implemented back in the teachers’ classrooms.

    The Fossils4Teachers professional development workshop, hosted by the Florida Museum in 2017, is one example of a broader impacts activity.
    Florida Museum (Jeff Gage photo)

    We’ve also been able to activate peoples’ interest in other animal groups — such as fossil sharks. Through our Scientist in Every Florida School program, we gave middle school teachers study kits with real fossil shark teeth. Their students learned to identify the shark teeth and then trained computers to identify the teeth using machine learning, a type of artificial intelligence.

    Students study fossil shark teeth through a program at the Florida Museum of Natural History.
    Florida Museum (Megan Higbee Hendrickson photo)

    Broader impact outcomes

    Broader impacts activities like these can have a variety of short- and long-term outcomes. More than 50 million people visit natural history museums in the U.S. annually. Activities that promote museums can reach large numbers of people in their pursuit of lifelong learning.

    More broadly, participatory science interest groups can allow people to learn about science while informing basic research projects. Within the field of natural history, a few popular examples include the Merlin app and the iNaturalist app, both of which have millions of active observers. Merlin encourages people to submit their observations of birds, and iNaturalist accepts sightings of plants, animals and fossils, which researchers can carefully vet and use as data.

    Many of the K-12 teachers my team has worked with report that they feel more confident teaching the new science content that they learned from our collaborations.

    Interestingly, although much of the research on science professional development focuses on the teachers, scientists also report a high level of satisfaction and improved communication skills after working with these teachers, both in the field and back in the classroom.

    Basic research benefits for society

    Generations of U.S. scientists have greatly benefited from federal investments in basic research. In the 75 years since NSF’s founding, the organization has funded hundreds of thousand projects to advance science and technology.

    These have supported basic research discoveries and also the training and career development of the tens of thousands of scientists working on these projects annually.

    Many prominent scientists have gone on to be productive leaders and innovators in the U.S. and internationally. NSF has funded more than 268 Nobel laureates.

    While NSF invests in the discovery of foundational knowledge about the natural world, funded projects have not traditionally had direct applications for societal benefits. To be sure, however, many of NSF’s projects – for example, on lasers and nanotechnology – started out as curiosity-driven basic research and ended up with immense applications for technological innovation and economic prosperity.

    For example, mapping the Earth’s ocean floor’s magnetic properties during World War II helped scientists understand how the crust moves and mountains form. This led to the plate tectonic revolution in the earth sciences. This line of basic research then led to an important application: predicting the probable location of high-risk earthquake zones worldwide.

    None of these downstream applications and benefits to society would have been realized without basic research discoveries supported by federal agencies such as NSF, and the further value added through broader impacts activities.

    Bruce J. MacFadden has received funding from the U. S. National Science Foundation.

    – ref. Basic research advances science, and can also have broader impacts on modern society – https://theconversation.com/basic-research-advances-science-and-can-also-have-broader-impacts-on-modern-society-252983

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    May 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Allied Energy Corporation Advances Gas Supply Infrastructure to Support Bitcoin Mining Partner at Thiel Site

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • AGYP advances gas-to-power site for sustainable Bitcoin mining operations
    • Trapped gas converted to energy for off-grid AI & data infrastructure
    • Thiel site prepares final testing and computing equipment delivery
    • Natural gas solutions support decentralized computing and edge centers

    CARROLLTON, Texas, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Allied Energy Corporation (OTC: AGYP) (”AGYP”), a Texas-based energy company focused on revitalizing underutilized domestic oil and gas resources, is pleased to provide a project update from the Thiel site where AGYP and its partner, Louis Energy Inc., are building out the infrastructure to deliver natural gas to support off-grid computing applications for Louis Energy Inc.

    Key Infrastructure Achievements: Turning Trapped Gas into a Strategic Asset

    AGYP and Louis Energy Inc. have been actively preparing the Thiel site to safely and efficiently channel natural gas to mobile containers for high-density computing. Completed milestones include:

    • Delivery of second modular computing container
    • Installation of on-site mobile office
    • Electrical installation preparation between Generator 2 and Container 2
    • Perimeter security fencing underway
    • Gas supply systems under validation
    • Generator test scheduled (pending P-5 approval)
    • On-site technicians conducting diagnostics and testing

    Planned Operational Advancements: Preparing for Final Integration

    AGYP is entering the final phase of its infrastructure buildout at Thiel, including:

    • Final cable installations and system optimization
    • Delivery of 10 pallets of computing equipment scheduled for next week
    • Wi-Fi connectivity via Starlink
    • Generator testing and operational clearance
    • Surveillance system installation
    • Gas system gauges and fittings to be pressure tested

    Once regulatory approvals are received, the site will begin formal gas-to-power operations.

    The Bigger Picture: Trapped Gas – An Untapped National Resource

    Stranded and flared gas—once considered a waste byproduct—is rapidly gaining traction as a sustainable, low-cost power source for decentralized infrastructure. AGYP’s work at the Thiel site is part of a broader push to transform U.S. energy usage:

    Use Cases for Trapped Gas Beyond Data Mining:

    • AI & Machine Learning Compute Farms – Powering high-density GPU systems
    • Agritech – Supporting controlled-environment agriculture in remote areas
    • Hydrogen Production – Fueling clean hydrogen from hydrocarbon sources
    • Remote & Emergency Operations – Delivering mobile energy to military and disaster response sites
    • Rural Electrification – Bringing energy to underserved communities through microgrids
    • Data & Edge Centers – Supporting low-latency applications with local infrastructure

    National Opportunity:

    • Over 1.4 billion cubic feet/day of gas is flared or vented in the U.S.
      (Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration, 2024)
    • Enough trapped gas exists to power over 10,000 MW of digital infrastructure
      (Source: Digital Wildcatters & Giga Energy)

    States like Texas, North Dakota, New Mexico, and Wyoming are seeing regulatory and ESG-driven momentum to utilize this untapped energy source.

    “We’re positioning AGYP at the center of a new energy economy—where natural gas isn’t wasted but redirected toward powering real-world innovation,” said George Montieth, CEO of AGYP.

    What’s Next for AGYP?

    With Thiel nearing full operational status, AGYP is actively exploring additional partnerships and deployment models to expand its gas-to-power strategy to other high-potential sites. In addition, further updates regarding the company’s carbon capture, gas monetization, and off-grid computing ventures will be provided in the coming months, as previously outlined in AGYP’s February 27, 2025 update.

    AGYP remains committed to turning America’s trapped gas into a strategic energy advantage.

    About AGYP:

    Allied Energy Corp. is an energy development and production company acquiring oil & gas reserves in some of the most prolific hydrocarbon bearing regions of the United States. The Company specializes in the business of reworking & re-completing ‘existing’ oil & gas wells located in the thousands of mature oil & gas producing fields across the United States. The Company applies its knowledge, experience, and effective well-remediation technologies to achieve higher production volumes, longer well life, and more efficient recovery of the proven and available oil and gas reserves in the fields/projects in which it has acquired an ownership interest. The Company will utilize updated technologies such as hydraulic fracturing (“fracking”), drilling of lateral (“horizontal”) legs in productive zones, and utilizing new cased hole electric logging to locate bypassed pays, all to enhance daily rates and oil & gas recoveries. By acquiring interests in a growing number of selected projects in various regions, Allied Energy Corp. is diversifying its exposure and effectively minimizing risk as it pursues corporate growth, top line & bottom-line revenues to the benefit of all stakeholders. There are proven, recoverable reserves contained in the many aging oil & gas fields that have been bypassed by companies moving away from these fields in search of deeper, more plentiful, but more costly reserves. The Company plans to concentrate on bypassed oil and gas as there is less competition and, as mentioned above, the costs are considerably less. Additionally, the company will acquire interests in marginal wells that can be acquired at minimal cost, of which there are 420,000 wells in the U.S. Quoting Barry Russell, President of the Independent Petroleum Association of America (“IPAA”) – “With approximately 20 percent of American oil production and 10 percent of American natural gas production coming from marginal wells, they are America’s true strategic petroleum reserve.”

    Safe Harbor Statement:

    This press release may contain certain forward-looking statements that are within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The Company has tried, whenever possible, to identify these forward-looking statements using words such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “expects,” “plans,” “intends,” “potential” and similar expressions. These statements reflect the Company’s current beliefs and are based upon information currently available to it. Accordingly, such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which could cause the Company’s actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by such statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or advise in the event of any change, addition or alteration to the information catered in this Press Release, including such forward-looking statements.

    Contact:

    Allied Energy Corporation
    Phone: 972-632-2393
    Email: info@alliedengycorp.com
    X: https://x.com/AlliedEnergyCo1

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/805afac9-47b6-422a-a74e-41ed9df311b3

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/bf09204b-baac-49fe-974f-47b7e199e3a5

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/11283726-53b0-48cf-9160-09bcd53a59ec

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2a26cbf3-3990-4f81-8304-8e79d831567a

    The MIL Network –

    May 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Red Cat to Report Q1 2025 Earnings and Provide Corporate Update on Wednesday, May 14, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Red Cat (Nasdaq: RCAT) (“Red Cat” or the “Company”), a drone technology company integrating robotic hardware and software for military, government, and commercial operations, announces that financial results for the Q1 2025 period will be reported on Wednesday, May 14, 2025 at the market close.

    Company management will host an earnings conference call at 4:30p.m. ET on Wednesday, May 14, 2025 to review financial results and provide an update on corporate developments. Following management’s formal remarks, there will be a question-and-answer session.

    Interested parties can listen to the conference call by dialing 1-844-413-3977 (within the U.S.) or 1-412-317-1803 (international). Callers should dial in approximately ten minutes prior to the start time and ask to be connected to the Red Cat conference call. Participants can also pre-register for the call using the following link: https://dpregister.com/sreg/10199765/ff2109d7f3

    The conference call will also be available through a live webcast that can be accessed at: https://event.choruscall.com/mediaframe/webcast.html?webcastid=OqffyYp4

    A replay of the webcast will be available until May 28, 2025 and can be accessed through the above link or at www.redcat.red. A telephonic replay will be available until May 28, 2025 by calling 1-877-344-7529 (domestic) or 1-412-317-0088 (international) and using access code 2313236. Replay using an international dial-in number can be accessed at: https://services.choruscall.com/ccforms/replay.html

    About Red Cat

    Red Cat (Nasdaq: RCAT) is a drone technology company integrating robotic hardware and software for military, government, and commercial operations. Through two wholly owned subsidiaries, Teal Drones and FlightWave Aerospace, Red Cat has developed a Family of Systems. This includes the Black Widow™, a small unmanned ISR system that was awarded the U.S. Army’s Short Range Reconnaissance (SRR) Program of Record contract. The Family of Systems also includes TRICHON™, a fixed-wing VTOL for extended endurance and range, and FANG™, the industry’s first line of NDAA-compliant FPV drones optimized for military operations with precision strike capabilities. Learn more at www.redcat.red.

    Forward Looking Statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” that are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, contained in this press release are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release may be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “contemplate,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “seek,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “target,” “aim,” “should,” “will” “would,” or the negative of these words or other similar expressions, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. Forward-looking statements are based on Red Cat Holdings, Inc.’s current expectations and are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Further, certain forward-looking statements are based on assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate. These and other risks and uncertainties are described more fully in the section titled “Risk Factors” in the Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 27, 2023. Forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are made as of this date, and Red Cat Holdings, Inc. undertakes no duty to update such information except as required under applicable law.

    Contact:

    INVESTORS:
    E-mail: Investors@redcat.red

    NEWS MEDIA:
    Phone: (347) 880-2895
    Email: peter@indicatemedia.com

    The MIL Network –

    May 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Join us on 5/22 for a Foreign and Comparative Law Webinar: “How to Handle AI? – Italian National Regulation in the Context of European Law”

    Source: US Global Legal Monitor

    The following is a guest post by Dante Figueroa, a senior legal information analyst at the Law Library of Congress covering Italian, Vatican, Roman, and Canon law. Dante has previously published the following posts: From Summorum Pontificum to Traditionis Custodes: Changes in Liturgical Matters at the Catholic Church, Vatican Criminal Law and Recent Money Laundering Cases, Collections and Digitization Projects of the Vatican Apostolic Library, and The Roman Senate as Precursor of the U.S. Senate, among others. 

    Please join us on May 22, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. EDT for another entry into our Foreign and Comparative Law Webinar series with our “How to Handle AI? – Italian National Regulation in the Context of European Law” webinar. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the new reality the world is facing in the 21st century. Most know about it, but few understand it properly, and even fewer dare to predict the implications of AI in all aspects of life.

    In this context, current developments and innovations concerning AI pose meaningful challenges to governments and the private sector, in particular in the area of fundamental human rights. For instance, the inclusion of Algorithmic Decision-Making (ADM) processes in various aspects of human endeavors, such as policing, employment, health care, business, and criminal justice, may reinforce and even create new barriers to fairness in society.

    Regulation (EU) 2024/1689 (“AI Act”) is the world’s first regulatory framework on AI. This regulation offers a comprehensive legislative framework for using AI, with broad coverage and allocated duties and obligations based on a hierarchy of risks to health, safety, and fundamental human rights. Accordingly, the AI Act contains regulatory tools available to member states and private actors with the ultimate purpose of shielding real or perceived disruptions caused by AI on contemporary societies. Other European Union (EU) regulations also tackle AI, including the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (“GDPR”) and the “Digital Services Act.”

    In this context, the webinar will analyze the aforementioned EU’s AI regulatory framework, from a legal and ethical perspective, to understand the challenges posed by AI innovations to the traditional human-centered environment. Particular attention will be given to the recent European Court of Justice’s decision in the “Schufa case.”

    Italy is not unaware of the many challenges posed by AI in various sectors of life. On April 23, 2024, the Council of Ministers approved a draft of a legislative bill dedicated to AI. Most recently, on March 20, 2025, a legislative bill was introduced into the Italian Senate concerning AI. However, no enacted legislation on AI currently exists in Italy.

    Accordingly, the webinar will also ponder the current and future implications of both EU and tentative domestic legislation on AI for Italy.

    Register here. 

    The main speaker will be Roberto D’Orazio, who is a senior legislative analyst at the Italian Parliamentary Library, and will present alongside Dante Figueroa, senior legal information analyst at the Law Library of Congress. Dante has a J.D. degree from the University of Concepcion, Chile, an LL.M. from the University of Chile, and an LL.M. from American University in Washington, D.C. He is fluent in Spanish, English, French, and Italian, and conversant in German and Portuguese.

    To learn about other upcoming classes on domestic and foreign law topics, visit the Legal Research Institute. Please request ADA accommodations at least five business days in advance by contacting (202) 707-6362 or [email protected].

    Subscribe to In Custodia Legis – it’s free! – to receive interesting posts drawn from the Law Library of Congress’s vast collections and our staff’s expertise in U.S., foreign, and international law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Tower Semiconductor to Attend the 22nd Annual Craig-Hallum Institutional Investor Conference and the 53rd Annual TD Cowen Technology, Media & Telecom Conference

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIGDAL HAEMEK, Israel, May 08, 2025 – Tower Semiconductor (NASDAQ/TASE: TSEM), the leading foundry of high-value analog semiconductor solutions, will participate in the 22nd Annual Craig-Hallum Institutional Investor Conference in Minneapolis on Wednesday, May 28 and in the 53rd Annual TD Cowen Technology, Media & Telecom Conference in New York on Thursday, May 29. There will be an opportunity for investors to meet one-on-one with company representatives. Interested investors should contact the conference organizers or email the investor relations team at towersemi@kcsa.com.

    About Tower Semiconductor

    Tower Semiconductor Ltd. (NASDAQ/TASE: TSEM), the leading foundry of high-value analog semiconductor solutions, provides technology, development, and process platforms for its customers in growing markets such as consumer, industrial, automotive, mobile, infrastructure, medical and aerospace and defense. Tower Semiconductor focuses on creating a positive and sustainable impact on the world through long-term partnerships and its advanced and innovative analog technology offering, comprised of a broad range of customizable process platforms such as SiPho, SiGe, BiCMOS, mixed-signal/CMOS, RF CMOS, CMOS image sensor, non-imaging sensors, displays, integrated power management (BCD and 700V), photonics, and MEMS. Tower Semiconductor also provides world-class design enablement for a quick and accurate design cycle as well as process transfer services, including development, transfer, and optimization, to IDMs and fabless companies. To provide multi-fab sourcing and extended capacity for its customers, Tower Semiconductor owns one operating facility in Israel (200mm), two in the U.S. (200mm), two in Japan (200mm and 300mm) which it owns through its 51% holdings in TPSCo, shares a 300mm facility in Agrate, Italy with STMicroelectronics as well as has access to a 300mm capacity corridor in Intel’s New Mexico factory. For more information, please visit: www.towersemi.com.

    Contact Information:
    Liat Avraham
    Investor Relations
    liatavra@towersemi.com | +972 4 650 6154

    David Hanover
    KCSA Strategic Communications

    towersemi@kcsa.com | 212-682-6300

    Attachment

    • Tower Craig Hallum May 2025 Conferences PR FINAL

    The MIL Network –

    May 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department Announces Results of Operation Restore Justice: 205 Child Sex Abuse Offenders Arrested in FBI-Led Nationwide Crackdown, Including Five in the Western District of Texas

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)

    SAN ANTONIO – Today, the Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Restore Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track and arrest child sex predators.  The operation resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of 205 child sexual abuse offenders in the nationwide crackdown.  The coordinated effort was executed over the course of five days by all 55 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section in the Department’s Criminal Division, and United States Attorney’s Offices around the country.

    “The Department of Justice will never stop fighting to protect victims — especially child victims — and we will not rest until we hunt down, arrest, and prosecute every child predator who preys on the most vulnerable among us,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “I am grateful to the FBI and their state and local partners for their incredible work in Operation Restore Justice and have directed my prosecutors not to negotiate.”

    “Every child deserves to grow up free from fear and exploitation, and the FBI will continue to be relentless in our pursuit of those who exploit the most vulnerable among us,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Operation Restore Justice proves that no predator is out of reach and no child will be forgotten. By leveraging the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state and local partners, we’re sending a clear message: there is no place to hide for those who prey on children.”

    In the Western District of Texas, five individuals were arrested and charged with federal crimes, including Kevin Dale Franklin Jr. in El Paso, charged with receipt and distribution of child pornography; Zaid Mashhour Haddad and Mario Garcia Martinez in San Antonio, charged with access with intent to view child pornography and possession of child pornography, respectively; James Christopher Hoyt in Austin, charged with distribution of material involved the sexual exploitation of children; and Dakota Gunther Vaught in Pecos, charged with one count of sexual exploitation of children, one count of receipt of child pornography, and one count of possession of child pornography.

    “Cases involving the sexual exploitation of children and child sexual abuse material, or CSAM, will always be a priority for this U.S. Attorney’s Office, as it is most certainly our duty to protect our most vulnerable citizens—children,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Margaret Leachman for the Western District of Texas. “These operations are significant in that they bring a vast number of resources together to carry out a shared mission and highlight critical criminal cases, but know that we work with our local, state, tribal, and federal law enforcement partners year-round and around the clock to investigate, arrest, and prosecute those who violate children, their rights and federal law.”

    “The FBI will deploy every resource available to investigate and bring to justice those who sexually exploit children, our most vulnerable population,” said Special Agent in Charge Aaron Tapp for the FBI San Antonio Field Office. “None of this would be possible without the collective efforts of the FBI San Antonio Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force Officers. We also want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their partnership and dedication to this important mission.”

    “The FBI El Paso Crimes Against Children Task Force is unwavering in its mission to combat the horrific crime of child exploitation,” said Special Agent in Charge John Morales for the FBI El Paso Field Office. “We pursue these cases relentlessly, every day, without exception because protecting children from predators is among our highest priorities, and we will stop at nothing to identify, investigate the abuse of innocent children, and bring these monstrous individuals responsible to justice. Day-in and day-out we work together with our law enforcement partners to ensure these predators face the full consequences of their depraved actions. Let this message be clear: if you exploit a child, we will find you, we will arrest you, and we will make sure you face the full power of the justice system. There will be no refuge for those who prey on our most innocent and vulnerable.”

    Others arrested around the country are alleged to have committed various crimes including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material, online enticement and transportation of minors, and child sex trafficking. In Minneapolis, for example, a state trooper and Army Reservist was arrested for allegedly producing child sexual abuse material while wearing his uniforms. In Norfolk, VA, an illegal alien from Mexico is accused of transporting a minor across state lines for sex. In Washington, D.C., a former Metropolitan Police Department Police Officer was arrested for allegedly trafficking minor victims.

    In many cases, parental vigilance and community outreach efforts played a critical role in bringing these offenders to justice. For example, a California man was arrested about eight hours after a young victim bravely came forward and disclosed their abuse to FBI agents after an online safety presentation at a school near Albany, N.Y.

    This effort follows the Department’s observance of National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April and underscores the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and raising awareness about the dangers they face. While the Department, including the FBI, investigates and prosecutes these crimes every day, April serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preventing these crimes, seeking justice for victims, and raising awareness through community education.

    The Justice Department is committed to combating child sexual exploitation. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org. 

    The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI’s tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office.

    Other online resources:

    Electronic Press Kit

    Violent Crimes Against Children

    How we can help you: Parents and caregivers protecting your kids

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

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Enphase Energy Announces Easy Expansion of IQ7 Solar Systems with IQ8 Microinverters

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FREMONT, Calif., May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Enphase Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ: ENPH), a global energy technology company and the world’s leading supplier of microinverter-based solar and battery systems, today announced the availability of new software that allows homeowners with existing legacy IQ7™ Microinverter-based systems to seamlessly expand their solar capacity using IQ8™ Microinverters. This software is now available across North America, Europe, and other key markets.

    With over one million homes worldwide using IQ7™ Microinverters, many homeowners are now looking to expand their systems to reduce energy costs and boost energy independence. Enphase’s new software enables solar installers to upgrade these systems with IQ8™ Microinverters, built for high-powered solar panels, while using the existing IQ® Gateway or IQ® Combiner hardware.

    “Enphase’s new expansion capability with the IQ8 Microinverters is a game-changer for us,” said Jeremy White, project manager at Robco Electric, an installer of Enphase products in the United States. “It allows us to offer our customers a straightforward path to scale their systems as their energy needs grow. We can now deliver more power with fewer headaches, which helps us provide the best service and keeps our business running efficiently.”

    “Homeowners are increasingly asking for ways to get more out of their existing systems, and the new IQ8 Microinverters make that possible,” said Mauricio Llovera, CEO of INVERSOL, an installer of Enphase products in Mexico. “This solution is a win-win, as it not only benefits our customers but also enables us to take on more projects without the complexity of traditional system upgrades. It’s the kind of innovation we’ve come to expect from Enphase.”

    “We’re excited to see Enphase continue to build on its existing product suite, constantly making our lives easier,” said David Monnier, CEO of La Maison des Energies, an installer of Enphase products in Switzerland. “The IQ8 Microinverters provide a seamless integration experience, allowing us to maximize energy output for our customers while maintaining the reliability and quality Enphase is known for. This capability is a significant boost to our business.”

    “The ability to upgrade existing IQ7 systems with IQ8 Microinverters opens up new opportunities for homeowners in the Netherlands,” said Jack van der Linden, account manager at Green Guys BV, an installer of Enphase products in the Netherlands. “With energy prices fluctuating, our customers want to optimize their solar systems without costly overhauls. This new solution from Enphase allows them to do just that — scaling their energy production efficiently and cost-effectively.”

    “Enphase’s latest innovation simplifies system upgrades for our customers in France, making it easier than ever to enhance solar production,” said Julien Vouriot, CEO and founder of Solair’ Forez, an installer of Enphase products in France. “We can now provide homeowners with a seamless way to integrate the latest microinverter technology, ensuring they get the most out of their solar investments while maintaining system reliability.”

    “The new software release unlocks seamless interoperability between IQ7 and IQ8 microinverters, which empowers our global installer network to deliver more value with less effort,” said Aaron Gordon, senior vice president and general manager of the systems business unit at Enphase Energy. “It’s a win for homeowners and a growth driver for our installers.”

    Enphase’s software-defined energy systems allow homeowners the ability to scale and optimize their solar investments over time. For more information about adding IQ8 Microinverters to IQ7 systems, watch the video here and visit the regional websites — United States, France, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and Germany.

    About Enphase Energy, Inc.

    Enphase Energy, a global energy technology company based in Fremont, CA, is the world’s leading supplier of microinverter-based solar and battery systems that enable people to harness the sun to make, use, save, and sell their own power — and control it all with a smart mobile app. The company revolutionized the solar industry with its microinverter-based technology and builds all-in-one solar, battery, and software solutions. Enphase has shipped approximately 81.5 million microinverters, and approximately 4.8 million Enphase-based systems have been deployed in over 160 countries. For more information, visit https://enphase.com/.

    ©2025 Enphase Energy, Inc. All rights reserved. Enphase Energy, Enphase, the “e” logo, IQ, and certain other marks listed at https://enphase.com/trademark-usage-guidelines are trademarks or service marks of Enphase Energy, Inc. in the U.S. and other countries. Other names are for informational purposes and may be trademarks of their respective owners.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release may contain forward-looking statements, including statements related to the expected capabilities and performance of Enphase Energy’s technology and products, including safety, quality, and reliability; and the ability to continually enhance and maximize the value of their investments over the lifetime of the systems. These forward-looking statements are based on Enphase Energy’s current expectations and inherently involve significant risks and uncertainties. Actual results and the timing of events could differ materially from those contemplated by these forward-looking statements as a result of such risks and uncertainties including those risks described in more detail in Enphase Energy’s most recently filed Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, Annual Report on Form 10-K, and other documents filed by Enphase Energy from time to time with the SEC. Enphase Energy undertakes no duty or obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this release as a result of new information, future events or changes in its expectations, except as required by law.

    Contact:

    Enphase Energy

    press@enphaseenergy.com

    This press release was published by a CLEAR® Verified individual.

    The MIL Network –

    May 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Parex Resources Announces First Quarter Results, Declaration of Q2 2025 Dividend, and Operational Update

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Parex Resources Inc. (“Parex” or the “Company”) (TSX: PXT) is pleased to announce its financial and operating results for the three-month period ended March 31, 2025, the declaration of its Q2 2025 regular dividend of C$0.385 per share, as well as an operational update. All amounts herein are in United States Dollars (“USD”) unless otherwise stated.

    “We entered the year with a disciplined and diversified plan aimed at delivering steady performance, and given current market volatility, are focused on sustaining base production and maintaining flexibility,” commented Imad Mohsen, President & Chief Executive Officer.

    “After a measured first quarter, drilling activity is increasing consistent with our budget. The recent tuck-in acquisition of LLA-32, an asset integral to our development plans, along with encouraging exploration results, represent key milestones that will drive near-term production. While we are well-positioned to deliver a strong second half, we will closely monitor commodity prices and our capital allocation throughout the year to maximize shareholder value.”

    Key Highlights

    • Generated Q1 2025 funds flow provided by operations (“FFO”)(1) of $122 million and FFO per share(2)(3) of $1.24.
    • Tracking to deliver FY 2025 average production guidance of 43,000 to 47,000 boe/d; YTD 2025 average production is approximately 43,100 boe/d(5)(7), with plans intact for a growing H2 2025 production profile.
    • Positive initial results at two prospects in the Southern Llanos, which are driving near-field exploration momentum.
    • Capital expenditure(6) guidance for FY 2025 remains at $285 to $315 million, though the Company continues to monitor commodity prices and could revise lower if warranted by market conditions.
    • Executed a tuck-in acquisition of the remaining working interest at LLA-32 for total consideration of $16 million.

    Q1 2025 Results

    • Average oil & natural gas production was 43,658 boe/d(7).
    • Realized net income of $81 million or $0.82 per share basic(3).
    • Generated FFO(1) of $122 million and FFO per share(2)(3) of $1.24.
    • Current taxes were $12 million; at current Brent crude oil strip pricing, the Company expects its FY 2025 effective current tax rate to be 0-3%.
    • Produced an operating netback(2) of $39.40/boe and an FFO netback(2) of $30.90/boe from an average Brent price of $74.98/bbl.
    • Incurred $57 million of capital expenditures(6), primarily from activities at Cabrestero, Capachos, and LLA-34.
    • Generated $65 million of free funds flow(6) that was used for return of capital initiatives, $10 million of bank debt repayment and increasing working capital surplus(1); working capital surplus(1) was $69 million and cash $81 million at quarter end.
    • Paid a C$0.385 per share(4) regular quarterly dividend and repurchased 524,900 shares.

    (1) Capital management measure. See “Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures Advisory.”
    (2) Non-GAAP ratio. See “Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures Advisory.”
    (3) Based on weighted average basic shares for the period.
    (4) Supplementary financial measure. See “Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures Advisory.”
    (5) Based on Q1 2025 actuals and estimated April 2025 average production; rounded for presentation purposes.
    (6) Non-GAAP financial measure. See “Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures Advisory.”
    (7) See “Operational and Financial Highlights” for a breakdown of production by product type.

    Operational and Financial Highlights Three Months Ended
    (unaudited) Mar. 31, Mar. 31, Dec. 31,
      2025 2024 2024
    Operational      
    Average daily production      
    Light Crude Oil and Medium Crude Oil (bbl/d) 10,650   7,237   9,550  
    Heavy Crude Oil (bbl/d) 32,207   45,543   34,882  
    Crude Oil (bbl/d) 42,857   52,780   44,432  
    Conventional Natural Gas (mcf/d) 4,806   3,348   5,190  
    Oil & Gas (boe/d)(1) 43,658   53,338   45,297  
           
    Operating netback ($/boe)      
    Reference price – Brent ($/bbl) 74.98   81.87   74.01  
    Oil & gas sales(4) 67.29   70.80   63.73  
    Royalties(4) (9.22 ) (11.21 ) (9.43 )
    Net revenue(4) 58.07   59.59   54.30  
    Production expense(4) (14.41 ) (12.64 ) (15.53 )
    Transportation expense(4) (4.26 ) (3.40 ) (3.87 )
    Operating netback ($/boe)(2) 39.40   43.55   34.90  
           
    Funds flow provided by operations netback ($/boe)(2) 30.90   31.32   32.39  
           
    Financial ($000s except per share amounts)      
           
    Net income 80,629   60,093   (69,051 )
    Per share – basic(6) 0.82   0.58   (0.70 )
           
    Funds flow provided by operations(5) 121,944   148,307   141,201  
    Per share – basic(2)(6) 1.24   1.43   1.43  
           
    Capital expenditures(3) 57,054   85,421   82,110  
           
    Free funds flow(3) 64,890   62,886   59,091  
           
    EBITDA(3) 139,032   192,078   (10,419 )
    Adjusted EBITDA(3) 135,407   188,228   137,312  
           
    Long-term inventory expenditures (4,648 ) 3,843   (2,569 )
           
    Dividends paid 26,365   28,531   26,658  
    Per share – Cdn$(4)(6) 0.385   0.375   0.385  
           
    Shares repurchased 5,239   15,291   16,408  
    Number of shares repurchased (000s) 525   920   1,692  
           
    Outstanding shares (end of period) (000s)      
    Basic 97,814   102,914   98,339  
    Weighted average basic 98,115   103,474   99,063  
    Diluted(8) 99,105   103,829   99,238  
           
    Working capital surplus (deficit)(5) 69,040   55,901   59,397  
    Bank debt(7) 50,000   60,000   60,000  
    Cash 81,025   61,052   98,022  

    (1) Reference to crude oil or natural gas in the above table and elsewhere in this press release refer to the light and medium crude oil and heavy crude oil and conventional natural gas, respectively, product types as defined in National Instrument 51-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Oil and Gas Activities.
    (2) Non-GAAP ratio. See “Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures Advisory”.
    (3) Non-GAAP financial measure. See “Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures Advisory”.
    (4) Supplementary financial measure. See “Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures Advisory”.
    (5) Capital management measure. See “Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures Advisory”.
    (6) Per share amounts (with the exception of dividends) are based on weighted average common shares.
    (7) Borrowing limit of $240.0 million as of March 31, 2025.
    (8) Diluted shares as stated include common shares and stock options outstanding at period-end. The March 31, 2025 closing stock price was C$13.42 per share.

    LLA-32 Tuck-In Acquisition

    On March 14, 2025, Parex executed a tuck-in acquisition for the remaining working interest at LLA-32 for total consideration of $16 million. LLA-32 is located to the north and adjacent to the Company’s core LLA-34 and Cabrestero blocks.

    The strategic rationale for the acquisition was to gain full control of the asset, grow production, expand inventory, and add low-cost recompletion opportunities.

    Following the close of the acquisition, Parex started a workover program with positive results thus far, and in Q2 2025, initiated a five-well development campaign. Current production from LLA-32 is roughly 4,000 boe/d(1).

    Operational Update

    2025 Corporate Guidance & Outlook

    While Parex’s 2025 corporate guidance of average production of 43,000 to 47,000 boe/d and capital expenditures of $285 to $315 million remains unchanged as previously disclosed, the Company is closely monitoring oil price volatility to ensure that project economics remain robust.

    Given the conventional nature of Parex’s business and the structure of its drilling and service contracts, optionality exists to adjust activity levels in response to prevailing market conditions in order to ensure efficient capital allocation and maximization of shareholder value.

    For Q2 2025, average production is expected to be similar to Q1 2025, supported by increased development activity and preliminary near-field exploration success.

    Operational Update

    Average production for Q1 2025 of 43,658 boe/d(2) was in line with Management expectations. The quarter progressed steadily, which is aligned with the Company’s activity plan to support a growing H2 2025 production profile, as previously disclosed.

    April 2025 average production was 41,400 boe/d(3), with production generally consistent with lower activity levels and modest capital outlay in Q1 2025, as well as higher than budgeted downtime due to weather factors. Downtime levels have normalized and initial average production rates in May are roughly 43,200 boe/d(4).

    With budgeted activity underway, operational momentum is expected to build through the remainder of the year. Parex currently has three drilling rigs operating (two operated and one non-operated). In addition to enhanced oil recovery initiatives at Cabrestero and LLA-34, activity for Q2 2025 is primarily focused on development wells that are planned to be sequential in nature and located on existing pads that enable efficient production across parallel operations.

    Near-Term Development Activity

    • Drilling at LLA-34 that is expected to continue through Q2 2025, resulting in the expected completion of six in-fill wells;
    • Commencing operations at LLA-32, with the first well of the campaign to be completed in late Q2 2025; and
    • Achieving initial access in the Putumayo, with activity starting with a workover rig in Q2 2025.

    Near-Field Exploration Program plus Follow-Up Drilling

    As part of this program, two separate prospects have yielded positive initial results in the Southern Llanos, where operations are ongoing:

    • On LLA-74, a prospect was drilled successfully.
      • Initial production began in early May, with current output of approximately 1,200 bbl/d of heavy crude oil(5).
    • Also on LLA-74, a prospect was drilled via a vertical well.
      • Based on management’s positive initial assessment, the program has progressed with the design of two horizontal wells to optimize production and recovery.
      • The first follow-up horizontal well is currently being drilled, with expected production in late May.

    (1) Estimated average production for April 1, 2025 to April 30, 2025; light & medium crude oil: ~3,409 bbl/d, conventional natural gas: ~3,544 mcf/d; rounded for presentation purposes.
    (2) See “Operational and Financial Highlights” for a breakdown of production by product type.
    (3) Estimated average production for April 1, 2025 to April 30, 2025; light & medium crude oil: ~10,099 bbl/d, heavy crude oil: ~30,541 bbl/d, conventional natural gas: ~4,557 mcf/d; rounded for presentation purposes.
    (4) Estimated average production for May 1, 2025 to May 6, 2025; light & medium crude oil: ~10,538 bbl/d, heavy crude oil: ~31,869 bbl/d, conventional natural gas: ~4,756 mcf/d; rounded for presentation purposes.
    (5) Short-term production rate. See “Oil & Gas Matters Advisory.”

    Risk Management

    For Q1 2025, Parex entered into a Brent crude oil hedge to manage price risk on approximately 25% of planned net crude oil production, utilizing a Brent put spread at $60/bbl and $70/bbl. For Q2 2025, Parex entered into similar hedges for the months of April 2025 and May 2025.

    Parex plans to regularly evaluate market conditions, operational requirements, and other pertinent factors, to assess the need for any additional hedging actions as it progresses through 2025.

    Return of Capital Update

    Q2 2025 Dividend

    Parex’s Board of Directors have approved a Q2 2025 regular dividend of C$0.385 per share to shareholders of record on June 9, 2025, to be paid on June 16, 2025. This regular dividend payment to shareholders is designated as an “eligible dividend” for purposes of the Income Tax Act (Canada).

    Normal Course Issuer Bids

    In 2025, Parex has repurchased approximately 0.7 million shares under its NCIBs, for total consideration of roughly C$10 million.

    Q1 2025 Results – Conference Call & Webcast

    Parex will host a conference call and webcast to discuss its Q1 2025 results on Thursday, May 8, 2025, beginning at 9:30 am MT (11:30 am ET). To participate in the conference call or webcast, please see the access information below:

    Conference ID: 5403995
    Participant Toll-Free Dial-In Number: 1-646-307-1963
    Participant Dial-In Number: 1-647-932-3411
    Webcast: https://events.q4inc.com/attendee/867962059

    Annual General Meeting

    On Thursday, May 8, 2025, Parex will hold its Annual General Meeting at 11:00 am MT (1:00 pm ET) both in-person and virtually. Participants may attend at the 4th Floor Conference Center, Eight Avenue Place, East Tower, 525, 8th Ave SW, Calgary, Alberta – and virtual participants can join through the following link: https:meetnow.global/M4SULLK.

    Additional information regarding the Annual General Meeting, including meeting materials, can be found at www.parexresources.com under Investors.

    About Parex Resources Inc.

    Parex is one of the largest independent oil and gas companies in Colombia, focusing on sustainable conventional production. The Company’s corporate headquarters are in Calgary, Canada, with an operating office in Bogotá, Colombia. Parex shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol PXT.

    For more information, please contact:

    Mike Kruchten
    Senior Vice President, Capital Markets & Corporate Planning
    Parex Resources Inc.
    403-517-1733
    investor.relations@parexresources.com

    Steven Eirich
    Senior Investor Relations & Communications Advisor
    Parex Resources Inc.
    587-293-3286
    investor.relations@parexresources.com

    NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

    Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures Advisory

    This press release uses various “non-GAAP financial measures”, “non-GAAP ratios”, “supplementary financial measures” and “capital management measures” (as such terms are defined in NI 52-112), which are described in further detail below. Such measures are not standardized financial measures under IFRS and might not be comparable to similar financial measures disclosed by other issuers. Investors are cautioned that non-GAAP financial measures should not be construed as alternatives to or more meaningful than the most directly comparable GAAP measures as indicators of Parex’s performance.

    These measures facilitate management’s comparisons to the Company’s historical operating results in assessing its results and strategic and operational decision-making and may be used by financial analysts and others in the oil and natural gas industry to evaluate the Company’s performance. Further, management believes that such financial measures are useful supplemental information to analyze operating performance and provide an indication of the results generated by the Company’s principal business activities.

    Set forth below is a description of the non-GAAP financial measures, non-GAAP ratios, supplementary financial measures and capital management measures used in this press release.

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    Capital expenditures, is a non-GAAP financial measure which the Company uses to describe its capital costs associated with oil and gas expenditures. The measure considers both property, plant and equipment expenditures and exploration and evaluation asset expenditures which are items in the Company’s statement of cash flows for the period and is calculated as follows:

      For the three months ended
      Mar. 31,   Mar. 31,   Dec. 31,
    ($000s)   2025     2024     2024
    Property, plant and equipment expenditures $ 44,951   $ 40,831   $ 62,799
    Exploration and evaluation expenditures   12,103     44,590     19,311
    Capital expenditures $ 57,054   $ 85,421   $ 82,110


    Free funds flow,     is a non-GAAP financial measure that is determined by funds flow provided by operations less capital expenditures. The Company considers free funds flow to be a key measure as it demonstrates Parex’s ability to fund return of capital, such as the normal course issuer bid and dividends, without accessing outside funds and is calculated as follows:

      For the three months ended
      Mar. 31,   Mar. 31,   Dec. 31,
    ($000s)   2025     2024     2024
    Cash provided by operating activities $ 87,621   $ 97,412   $ 67,847
    Net change in non-cash assets and liabilities   34,323     50,895     73,354
    Funds flow provided by operations   121,944     148,307     141,201
    Capital expenditures   57,054     85,421     82,110
    Free funds flow $ 64,890   $ 62,886   $ 59,091


    EBITDA    , is a non-GAAP financial measure that is defined as net income (loss) adjusted for finance income and expenses, other expenses, income tax expense (recovery) and depletion, depreciation and amortization.

    Adjusted EBITDA, is a non-GAAP financial measure defined as EBITDA adjusted for non-cash impairment charges, share-based compensation expense (recovery), unrealized foreign exchange gains (losses) and unrealized gains (losses) on risk management contracts.

    The Company considers EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA to be key measures as they demonstrate Parex’s profitability before finance income and expenses, taxes, depletion, depreciation and amortization and other non-cash items. A reconciliation from net income to EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA is as follows:

      For the three months ended
      Mar. 31,   Mar. 31,   Dec. 31,
    ($000s)   2025     2024     2024
    Net income (loss) $ 80,629     $ 60,093     $ (69,051 )
    Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to EBITDA:          
    Finance income   (1,297 )     (1,257 )     (998 )
    Finance expense   5,056       4,455       4,318  
    Other expenses   1,147       739       2,208  
    Income tax expense (recovery)   3,078       75,817       (880 )
    Depletion, depreciation and amortization   50,419       52,231       53,984  
    EBITDA $ 139,032     $ 192,078     $ (10,419 )
    Non-cash impairment charges   —       —       137,841  
    Share-based compensation expense (recovery)   2,092       (2,463 )     6,149  
    Unrealized foreign exchange (gain) loss   (4,919 )     (1,387 )     2,581  
    Unrealized (gain) loss on risk management contracts   (798 )     —       1,160  
    Adjusted EBITDA $ 135,407     $ 188,228     $ 137,312  


    Non-GAAP Ratios

    Operating netback per boe, is a non-GAAP ratio that the Company considers to be a key measure as it demonstrates Parex’ profitability relative to current commodity prices. Parex calculates operating netback per boe as operating netback (calculated as oil and natural gas sales from production, less royalties, operating, and transportation expense) divided by the total equivalent sales volume including purchased oil volumes for oil and natural gas sales price and transportation expense per boe and by the total equivalent sales volume excluding purchased oil volumes for royalties and operating expense per boe.

    Funds flow provided by operations netback per boe or FFO netback per boe, is a non-GAAP ratio that includes all cash generated from operating activities and is calculated before changes in non-cash assets and liabilities, divided by produced oil and natural gas sales volumes. The Company considers funds flow provided by operations netback per boe to be a key measure as it demonstrates Parex’s profitability after all cash costs relative to current commodity prices.

    Basic funds flow provided by operations per share or FFO per share, is a non-GAAP ratio that is calculated by dividing funds flow provided by operations by the weighted average number of basic shares outstanding. Parex presents basic funds flow provided by operations per share whereby per share amounts are calculated using weighted-average shares outstanding, consistent with the calculation of earnings per share. The Company considers basic funds flow provided by operations per share or FFO per share to be a key measure as it demonstrates Parex’s profitability after all cash costs relative to the weighted average number of basic shares outstanding.

    Capital Management Measures

    Funds flow provided by operations, is a capital management measure that includes all cash generated from operating activities and is calculated before changes in non-cash assets and liabilities. The Company considers funds flow provided by operations to be a key measure as it demonstrates Parex’s profitability after all cash costs. A reconciliation from cash provided by operating activities to funds flow provided by operations is as follows:

      For the three months ended
      Mar. 31,   Mar. 31,   Dec. 31,
    ($000s)   2025     2024     2024
    Cash provided by operating activities $ 87,621   $ 97,412   $ 67,847
    Net change in non-cash assets and liabilities   34,323     50,895     73,354
    Funds flow provided by operations $ 121,944   $ 148,307   $ 141,201

    Working capital surplus, is a capital management measure which the Company uses to describe its liquidity position and ability to meet its short-term liabilities. Working capital surplus is defined as current assets less current liabilities.

      For the three months ended
      Mar. 31,   Mar. 31,   Dec. 31,
    ($000s)   2025     2024     2024
    Current assets $ 259,256   $ 276,113   $ 245,943
    Current liabilities   190,216     220,212     186,546
    Working capital surplus $ 69,040   $ 55,901   $ 59,397


    Supplementary Financial Measures

    “Oil and natural gas sales price per boe” is comprised of total commodity sales from oil and natural gas production, as determined in accordance with IFRS, divided by the total oil and natural gas sales volumes including purchased oil volumes.

    “Royalties per boe” is comprised of royalties, as determined in accordance with IFRS, divided by the total equivalent sales volume and excludes purchased oil volumes.

    “Net revenue per boe” is comprised of net revenue, as determined in accordance with IFRS, divided by the total equivalent sales volume and includes purchased oil volumes.

    “Production expense per boe” is comprised of production expense, as determined in accordance with IFRS, divided by the total equivalent sales volume and excludes purchased oil volumes.

    “Transportation expense per boe” is comprised of transportation expense, as determined in accordance with IFRS, divided by the total equivalent sales volumes including purchased oil volumes.

    “Dividends paid per share” is comprised of dividends declared, as determined in accordance with IFRS, divided by the number of shares outstanding at the dividend record date.

    Oil & Gas Matters Advisory

    The term “Boe” means a barrel of oil equivalent on the basis of 6 Mcf of natural gas to 1 barrel of oil (“bbl”). Boe’s may be misleading, particularly if used in isolation. A boe conversation ratio of 6 Mcf: 1 Bbl is based on an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead. Given the value ratio based on the current price of crude oil as compared to natural gas is significantly different from the energy equivalency of 6 Mcf: 1Bbl, utilizing a conversion ratio at 6 Mcf: 1 Bbl may be misleading as an indication of value.

    This press release contains a number of oil and gas metrics, including, operating netbacks and FFO netbacks. These oil and gas metrics have been prepared by management and do not have standardized meanings or standard methods of calculation and therefore such measures may not be comparable to similar measures used by other companies and should not be used to make comparisons. Such metrics have been included herein to provide readers with additional measures to evaluate the Company’s performance; however, such measures are not reliable indicators of the future performance of the Company and future performance may not compare to the performance in previous periods and therefore such metrics should not be unduly relied upon. Management uses these oil and gas metrics for its own performance measurements and to provide security holders with measures to compare the Company’s operations over time. Readers are cautioned that the information provided by these metrics, or that can be derived from the metrics presented in this news release, should not be relied upon for investment or other purposes.

    Any reference in this press release to short-term production rates are useful in confirming the presence of hydrocarbons, however such rates are not determination of the rates at which such wells will continue production and decline thereafter and readers are cautioned not to place reliance on such rates in calculating the aggregate production of Parex.

    Distribution Advisory

    The Company’s future shareholder distributions, including but not limited to the payment of dividends and the acquisition by the Company of its shares pursuant to an NCIB, if any, and the level thereof is uncertain. Any decision to pay further dividends on the common shares (including the actual amount, the declaration date, the record date and the payment date in connection therewith and any special dividends) or acquire shares of the Company will be subject to the discretion of the Board of Directors of Parex and may depend on a variety of factors, including, without limitation the Company’s business performance, financial condition, financial requirements, growth plans, expected capital requirements and other conditions existing at such future time including, without limitation, contractual restrictions and satisfaction of the solvency tests imposed on the Company under applicable corporate law. Further, the actual amount, the declaration date, the record date and the payment date of any dividend are subject to the discretion of the Board. There can be no assurance that the Company will pay dividends or repurchase any shares of the Company in the future.

    Advisory on Forward Looking Statements

    Certain information regarding Parex set forth in this document contains forward-looking statements that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties. The use of any of the words “plan”, “expect”, “prospective”, “project”, “intend”, “believe”, “should”, “anticipate”, “estimate”, “forecast”, “guidance”, “budget” or other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions “may” or “will” occur are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such statements represent Parex’s internal projections, estimates or beliefs concerning, among other things, future growth, results of operations, production, future capital and other expenditures (including the amount, nature and sources of funding thereof), competitive advantages, plans for and results of drilling activity, environmental matters, business prospects and opportunities. These statements are only predictions and actual events or results may differ materially. Although the Company’s management believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance or achievement since such expectations are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and contingencies. Many factors could cause Parex’s actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements made by, or on behalf of, Parex.

    In particular, forward-looking statements contained in this document include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to: the Company’s focus, plans, priorities and strategies; average production guidance and capital expenditure guidance; expectations and plans regarding the Company’s drilling activity, the Company’s production profile, prospects in the Southern Llanos, the LLA-32 tuck-in acquisition, drilling and programs at LLA-34, LLA-32, Putumayo, and LLA-74; expectations about the Company’s FY 2025 tax rate; plans with respect to assessing the need for additional hedging in 2025; the anticipated terms of the Company’s Q2 2025 regular quarterly dividend, including its expectation that it will be designated as an “eligible dividend”; and the anticipated date and time of Parex’s conference call to discuss Q1 2025 results.

    These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to, the impact of general economic conditions in Canada and Colombia; an unpredictable tariff and trade environment; prolonged volatility in commodity prices; industry conditions including changes in laws and regulations including adoption of new environmental laws and regulations, and changes in how they are interpreted and enforced in Canada and Colombia; determinations by OPEC and other countries as to production levels; competition; lack of availability of qualified personnel; the results of exploration and development drilling and related activities; obtaining required approvals of regulatory authorities in Canada and Colombia; the risks associated with negotiating with foreign governments as well as country risk associated with conducting international activities; volatility in market prices for oil; fluctuations in foreign exchange or interest rates; environmental risks; changes in income tax laws or changes in tax laws and incentive programs relating to the oil industry; changes to pipeline capacity; ability to access sufficient capital from internal and external sources; failure of counterparties to perform under contracts; the risk that Brent oil prices may be lower than anticipated; the risk that Parex’s evaluation of its existing portfolio of development and exploration opportunities may not be consistent with its expectations; the risk that Parex may not have sufficient financial resources in the future to provide distributions to its shareholders; the risk that the Board may not declare dividends in the future or that Parex’s dividend policy changes; the risk that Parex may not be responsive to changes in commodity prices; the risk that Parex may not meet its production guidance for the year ended December 31, 2025; the risk that Parex’s 2025 capital expenditures may be greater or less than anticipated; the risk that plans and expectations related to Parex’s drilling program as disclosed herein do not materialize as expected and/or at all; and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company.

    Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. Additional information on these and other factors that could affect Parex’s operations and financial results are included in reports on file with Canadian securities regulatory authorities and may be accessed through the SEDAR+ website (www.sedarplus.ca).

    Although the forward-looking statements contained in this document are based upon assumptions which Management believes to be reasonable, the Company cannot assure investors that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. With respect to forward-looking statements contained in this document, Parex has made assumptions regarding, among other things: current and anticipated commodity prices and royalty regimes; availability of skilled labour; timing and amount of capital expenditures; future exchange rates; the price of oil, including the anticipated Brent oil price; the impact of increasing competition; conditions in general economic and financial markets; availability of drilling and related equipment; effects of regulation by governmental agencies; receipt of partner, regulatory and community approvals; royalty rates; future operating costs; uninterrupted access to areas of Parex’s operations and infrastructure; recoverability of reserves and future production rates; the status of litigation; timing of drilling and completion of wells; on-stream timing of production from successful exploration wells; operational performance of non-operated producing fields; pipeline capacity; that Parex will have sufficient cash flow, debt or equity sources or other financial resources required to fund its capital and operating expenditures and requirements as needed; that Parex’s conduct and results of operations will be consistent with its expectations; that Parex will have the ability to develop its oil and gas properties in the manner currently contemplated; that Parex’s evaluation of its existing portfolio of development and exploration opportunities is consistent with its expectations; current or, where applicable, proposed industry conditions, laws and regulations will continue in effect or as anticipated as described herein; that the estimates of Parex’s production and reserves volumes and the assumptions related thereto (including commodity prices and development costs) are accurate in all material respects; that Parex will be able to obtain contract extensions or fulfill the contractual obligations required to retain its rights to explore, develop and exploit any of its undeveloped properties; that Parex will have sufficient financial resources to pay dividends and acquire shares pursuant to its NCIB in the future; that Parex is able to execute its plans with respect to the Company’s drilling program as disclosed herein; and other matters.

    Management has included the above summary of assumptions and risks related to forward-looking information provided in this document in order to provide shareholders with a more complete perspective on Parex’s current and future operations and such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. Parex’s actual results, performance or achievement could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements and, accordingly, no assurance can be given that any of the events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will transpire or occur, or if any of them do, what benefits Parex will derive. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this document and Parex disclaims any intent or obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, other than as required by applicable securities laws.

    This press release contains information that may be considered a financial outlook under applicable securities laws about the Company’s potential financial position, including, but not limited to; Parex’s FY 2025 capital expenditure guidance; Parex 2025 guidance, including anticipated Brent crude oil average prices, funds flow provided by operations netback; funds flow provided by operations, capital expenditures, free funds flow; and the anticipated terms of the Company’s Q2 2025 regular quarterly dividend including its expectation that it will be designated as an “eligible dividend”, all of which are subject to numerous assumptions, risk factors, limitations and qualifications, including those set forth in the above paragraphs. The actual results of operations of the Company and the resulting financial results will vary from the amounts set forth in this press release and such variations may be material. This information has been provided for illustration only and with respect to future periods are based on budgets and forecasts that are speculative and are subject to a variety of contingencies and may not be appropriate for other purposes. Accordingly, these estimates are not to be relied upon as indicative of future results. Except as required by applicable securities laws, the Company undertakes no obligation to update such financial outlook. The financial outlook contained in this press release was made as of the date of this press release and was provided for the purpose of providing further information about the Company’s potential future business operations. Readers are cautioned that the financial outlook contained in this press release is not conclusive and is subject to change.

    The following abbreviations used in this press release have the meanings set forth below:

    bbl one barrel
    bbls barrels
    bbl/d barrels per day
    boe barrels of oil equivalent of natural gas; one barrel of oil or natural gas liquids for six thousand cubic feet of natural gas
    boe/d barrels of oil equivalent of natural gas per day
    mcf thousand cubic feet
    mcf/d thousand cubic feet per day
    W.I. working interest

    PDF available: http://ml.globenewswire.com/Resource/Download/974163af-5043-41d6-a129-53a272c53539

    The MIL Network –

    May 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Sky Quarry Signs LOI with R & R Solutions to Explore Expansion of Southwest Operations and Accelerate Market Deployment

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WOODS CROSS, Utah, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sky Quarry Inc. (NASDAQ: SKYQ) (“Sky Quarry” or “the Company”), an integrated energy solutions company committed to revolutionizing the waste asphalt shingle recycling industry, today announced that it has signed a non-binding Letter of Intent (LOI) with R & R Solutions Inc., the only permitted asphalt shingle recycler in New Mexico. The LOI represents a strategic step in Sky Quarry’s plan to expand its national network of modular waste-to-energy facilities and unlock new revenue opportunities in the Southwest.

    The proposed partnership will focus on planning the deployment of Sky Quarry’s proprietary equipment, mechanical processes, and intellectual property (IP) at R & R Solutions’ existing permitted site in Albuquerque, New Mexico. If implemented, the proposed project will support the production of high-value byproducts, including asphalt-coated limestone, sand, granules, bitumen, and structural-grade ground shingles for use in roofing, road repair, sealants, and other infrastructure applications.

    As part of Sky Quarry’s differentiated business model, the Company expects to generate revenue both from accepting asphalt shingle waste and from selling the recovered byproducts. At the proposed New Mexico site, Sky Quarry estimates that approximately 100,000 tons of asphalt shingle waste could be processed per year and believes that this could generate substantial annual revenue from collection fees and the sale of recycled materials such as granules and sand. The Company also believes that the feedstock could yield the equivalent of up to 150,000 barrels of oil when fully refined, representing additional potential revenue.

    “The opportunity to collaborate with R & R Solutions and build on an existing permitted site creates an attractive entry point for strengthening our national scale-up efforts and advancing commercialization,” said David Sealock, CEO and Chairman of Sky Quarry. “The Albuquerque region presents a particularly compelling opportunity due to its proximity to our PR Spring facility in Utah, which will serve as a regional hub for hydrocarbon extraction. Upon reaching an agreement with R&R Solutions based on the LOI, we believe that leveraging existing infrastructure and integrating operations across both sites will accelerate deployment, reduce capital intensity, and improve supply chain logistics for recovered oil products, efficiencies that we believe will drive stronger margins and long-term value.”

    Founded in 2013, R & R Solutions brings over a decade of experience as a leader in responsible recycling practices and is deeply integrated into the New Mexico construction ecosystem. “The proposed partnership with Sky Quarry will mark a strategic step forward for R & R Solutions,” said Jerry Daniele, Vice President of R & R Solutions. “We’ve built a strong foundation as the region’s only permitted shingle recycler, and we believe that this collaboration will give us the tools to expand our capabilities, accelerate growth, and deliver broader impact. It will allow us to scale the value we provide to customers and communities across New Mexico and move beyond traditional recycling into large-scale resource recovery, driving meaningful economic impact in the region.”

    About Sky Quarry Inc.

    Sky Quarry Inc. (NASDAQ:SKYQ) and its subsidiaries are, collectively, an oil production, refining, and a development-stage environmental remediation company formed to deploy technologies to facilitate the recycling of waste asphalt shingles and remediation of oil-saturated sands and soils. Our waste-to-energy mission is to repurpose and upcycle millions of tons of asphalt shingle waste, diverting them from landfills. By doing so, we can contribute to improved waste management, promote resource efficiency, conserve natural resources, and reduce environmental impact. For more information, please visit skyquarry.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release may include ”forward-looking statements.” All statements pertaining to our future financial and/or operating results, future events, or future developments may constitute forward-looking statements. The statements may be identified by words such as “expect,” “look forward to,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “seek,” “estimate,” “will,” “project,” or words of similar meaning. Such statements are based on the current expectations and certain assumptions of our management, of which many are beyond our control. These are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties, and factors, including but not limited to those described in our disclosures. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize or should underlying expectations not occur or assumptions prove incorrect, actual results, performance, or our achievements may (negatively or positively) vary materially from those described explicitly or implicitly in the relevant forward-looking statement. We neither intend, nor assume any obligation, to update or revise these forward-looking statements in light of developments which differ from those anticipated. You are urged to carefully review and consider any cautionary statements and the Company’s other disclosures, including the statements made under the heading “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in the Company’s Form 10-K as filed with the SEC on March 31, 2025. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of the document in which they are contained.

    Investor Relations
    Jennifer Standley
    Director of Investor Relations
    Ir@skyquarry.com

    Company Website
    www.skyquarry.com

    The MIL Network –

    May 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: AMG and Qualitas Energy Announce Partnership

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • AMG to invest in Qualitas Energy, a leading renewables-focused global infrastructure manager specializing in energy transition with more than €3.5 billion in AUM
    • Qualitas Energy has a distinctive competitive position given its opportunistic value-add approach, vertically integrated industrial platform, and strategically tailored, market-specific solutions
    • Partnership will expand AMG’s participation in private markets and alternatives more broadly

    WEST PALM BEACH, FL, and MADRID, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — AMG, a strategic partner to leading independent investment management firms globally, today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire a minority equity interest in Qualitas Energy, a leading global investment and management platform with a dual focus on funding and developing renewable energy, energy transition, and sustainable infrastructure.

    Under the terms of the agreement, Qualitas Energy’s management team will retain majority ownership and continue to lead the organization’s day-to-day operations, maintaining investment, strategic, and operational independence. As part of the transaction, Qualitas Energy’s Executive Chairman Iñigo Olaguíbel and Chief Executive Officer Oscar Pérez, along with other members of the senior management team, will enter into additional long-term commitments with Qualitas Energy, reinforcing their alignment with the business and its investors.

    Qualitas Energy has a long-term track record of excellent investment performance. Founded in 2006, the firm invests globally with a focus on Europe, where the heightened importance of energy security is driving demand for investments into renewable energy sources. Led by Mr. Olaguíbel and Mr. Pérez, the firm has raised approximately €5 billion in capital across six funds and co-investment opportunities, which has been deployed to invest in solar, wind, batteries and storage, hydroelectric power, and renewable natural gas.

    “We are pleased to partner with Qualitas Energy, a global infrastructure manager specializing in energy transition with a two-decade track record of delivering strong returns for clients,” said Jay C. Horgen, President and Chief Executive Officer of AMG. “Given the increasing focus on energy independence and security in Europe, along with the firm’s distinctive approach, vertically integrated industrial platform, and locally based teams with deep knowledge of their respective geographies, Qualitas Energy is well-positioned to build on its business momentum. I am delighted to welcome Iñigo, Oscar, and their partners to our Affiliate group.”

    “We are excited to partner with AMG as we continue to build an enduring multi-generational firm,” said Iñigo Olaguíbel, Managing Partner and Executive Chairman of Qualitas Energy. “We selected AMG because of its long-term orientation and reputation as a collaborative partner. Through AMG’s unique approach, Qualitas Energy will maintain our independence, preserve our unique culture, and gain access to a broad range of proven strategic capabilities to advance our long-term objectives.”

    “As part of its strategic evolution, Qualitas Energy is focused on becoming the asset manager at the forefront of energy transition investing,” added Oscar Pérez, Managing Partner and Chief Executive Officer of Qualitas Energy. “We aim to continue expanding our investment capacity, and our partnership with AMG will enhance our ability to achieve that goal.”

    The terms of the transaction were not disclosed. The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2025, subject to customary closing conditions.

    About AMG

    AMG (NYSE: AMG) is a strategic partner to leading independent investment management firms globally. AMG’s strategy is to generate long-term value by investing in high-quality independent partner-owned firms, through a proven partnership approach, and allocating resources across AMG’s unique opportunity set to the areas of highest growth and return. Through its distinctive approach, AMG magnifies its Affiliates’ existing advantages and actively supports their independence and ownership culture. As of March 31, 2025, AMG’s aggregate assets under management were approximately $712 billion across a diverse range of private markets, liquid alternative, and differentiated long-only investment strategies. For more information, please visit the Company’s website at www.amg.com.

    About Qualitas Energy

    Qualitas Energy is a leading global investment and management platform with a dual focus on both funding and developing renewable energy, energy transition, and sustainable infrastructure. Since 2006, the Qualitas Energy team has dedicated over €14 billion to the energy transition worldwide. These investments have been deployed through six vehicles: Fotowatio/FRV, Vela Energy, Qualitas Energy III, Qualitas Energy IV, Qualitas Energy V, and Qualitas Energy Credit Fund I. Qualitas Energy’s existing portfolio currently comprises over 11 GW of operational and development-stage renewable energy assets – including solar PV, concentrated solar power (CSP), wind, energy storage, hydroelectric power, and renewable natural gas – across Spain, Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy, Poland, Chile, and the United States. Over the past five years, Qualitas Energy has generated enough energy to supply 1.2 million homes and has successfully avoided the emission of 1 million metric tons of CO2 equivalent. The Qualitas Energy team consists of approximately 540 professionals across fifteen offices in Madrid, Berlin, London, Milan, Hamburg, Wiesbaden, Trier, Cologne, Stuttgart, Warsaw, Wroclaw, Santiago, Durham, Bristol, and Edinburgh. Please visit www.qualitasenergy.com for further information.

    Certain matters discussed in this press release issued by Affiliated Managers Group, Inc. (“AMG” or the “Company”) may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws, and could be impacted by a number of factors, including those described under the section entitled “Risk Factors” in AMG’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, as such factors may be updated from time to time in the Company’s periodic filings with the SEC, which are accessible on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. AMG undertakes no obligation to publicly update or review any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. This release does not constitute an offer of any products, investment vehicles, or services of any AMG Affiliate. From time to time, AMG may use its website as a distribution channel of material Company information. AMG routinely posts financial and other important information regarding the Company in the Investor Relations section of its website at www.amg.com and encourages investors to consult that section regularly.

    Media contacts

    AMG Media & Investor Relations
    Patricia Figueroa
    (617) 747-3300
    ir@amg.com
    pr@amg.com

    Qualitas Energy
    Henar Hernández
    henar.hernandez@qenergy.com
    +34 697 11 68 72

    Headland Consultancy
    qualitas@headlandconsultancy.com
    +44 7435 546304
    +44 7311 369929

    The MIL Network –

    May 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Change of His Majesty’s Ambassador to Argentina: David Cairns

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Press release

    Change of His Majesty’s Ambassador to Argentina: David Cairns

    Mr David Cairns has been appointed His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Argentine Republic.

    Mr David Cairns has been appointed His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Argentine Republic, in succession to Mrs Kirsty Hayes, who will be transferring to another Diplomatic Service appointment.

    Mr Cairns will take up his appointment during September 2025.

    Curriculum vitae           

    Full name: David Seldon Cairns

    Date Role
    2019 to present Equinor, Vice President
    2015 to 2019 Stockholm, Her Majesty’s Ambassador and Director of Nordic Baltic Network
    2010 to 2014 FCO, Director, Estates, Security, Corporate Services
    2006 to 2010 Tokyo, Director of Trade and Investment
    2002 to 2006 Geneva, First Secretary WTO
    2000 to 2002 FCO, Private Secretary to Baronesses Scotland and Amos
    1999 to 2000 FCO, EU Directorate. Head of Public Diplomacy
    1995 to 1998 Tokyo, Second Secretary Commercial
    1993 to 1994 FCO, Security Policy Department
    1993 Joined FCO

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Contact the FCDO Communication Team via email (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Share this page

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    Updates to this page

    Published 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Global Leaders Unite at UN Vesak 2025 to Champion Buddhist Values for Peace and Sustainability

    Source: Government of India

    Global Leaders Unite at UN Vesak 2025 to Champion Buddhist Values for Peace and Sustainability

    Buddhism is the Ethical Foundation for a Just and Non-Discriminatory Society- Shri Ramdas Athawale – Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment

    Global Buddhist Voices Call for Compassion, Education, and Environmental Action

    Vajrayana Buddhist monks from India performed a prayer chanting ceremony with profound spiritual meaning

    Posted On: 07 MAY 2025 9:30PM by PIB Delhi

    The Vietnam Buddhist Academy in Ho Chi Minh City marked the second day of the United Nations Vesak 2025 celebrations with a profound display of spiritual unity and global cooperation. Leaders from 85 countries gathered to reflect on this year’s theme: “Solidarity and Tolerance for Human Dignity: Buddhist Wisdom for World Peace and Sustainable Development.”

    Shri Ramdas Athawale, Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment of India, emphasized the transformative potential of Buddhist principles in promoting justice, equality, and compassion in modern societies.

    Speakers from across continents underscored the relevance of Buddhist wisdom in addressing pressing global challenges. Messages ranged from the role of Buddhist education in modern times, to environmental advocacy, mental health, and the importance of nurturing the younger generation to carry forward the light of the Dharma.

    The program continued with messages and speeches from leaders of international Buddhist organizations, focusing on clarifying the main theme of this year’s Great Festival.

    In the beginning of the program, Vajrayana Buddhist monks from India performed a prayer chanting ceremony with profound spiritual meaning. The ceremony symbolizes the spirit of harmony, respect, solidarity among Buddhist traditions in the international community. After the prayer service, the plenary session continued with speeches from leaders and government representatives from many countries. The leaders appreciated the role of Buddhist thought in building harmonious and compassionate societies and responding to global challenges such as war, poverty and climate change.

    Most Venerable Thich Thien Nhon – Deputy Supreme Patriarch, Chairman of the Executive Council of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha, Chairman of the National Committee for Vesak 2025 attended with leaders of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha, representatives of Buddhist organizations and scholars from 85 countries and territories.

    Venerable Jeong Beom – Acting Chairman of Overseas Affairs Headquarters, Korea, delivered a message “Affirming the importance of global cooperation and solidarity among Buddhist traditions.” Associate Prof. Karsai Gábor Zsolt – Rector of Dharma Gate Buddhist College, Hungary, delivered the message “Promoting the role of Buddhist education in modern times.” Guerrero Diañez – President of the Spanish Buddhist Association, delivered the message “Sharing hope in the young generation that will continue the light of Buddhism in the West.”

    Gerhard Weissgrab – President of the Austrian Buddhist Union, delivered the message “Call for practical action for the environment and world peace.” Ricardo Vieira Sasaki – Director of the Nālandā Buddhist Studies Center, Brazil, delivered the message “Emphasizing the healing power of Buddhism for community mental health.” Associate Prof. Edi Ramawijaya Putra – President of the Indonesian Association of Higher Buddhist Education, delivered the message “Proposal to enhance exchange and cooperation in regional Buddhist education.” Mr. Egil Lothe – Former President of the Norwegian Buddhist Federation, Member of the ICDV International Executive Committee, delivered the message “Emphasizing Vesak as a symbol of global Buddhist connection.

     

    ****

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    pibculture[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2127641) Visitor Counter : 38

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    May 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Enerflex Ltd. Announces First Quarter 2025 Financial and Operational Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ADJUSTED EBITDA OF $113 MILLION AND FREE CASH FLOW OF $85 MILLION

    EI CONTRACT BACKLOG AND ES BACKLOG OF $1.5 BILLION AND $1.2 BILLION, RESPECTIVELY, PROVIDING SOLID OPERATIONAL VISIBILITY

    REDUCED BANK ADJUSTED NET DEBT-TO-EBITDA RATIO TO 1.3x1 AT THE END OF Q1/25

    CALGARY, Alberta, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Enerflex Ltd. (TSX: EFX) (NYSE: EFXT) (“Enerflex” or the “Company”) today reported its financial and operational results for the three months ended March 31, 2025.

    All amounts presented are in U.S. Dollars unless otherwise stated.

    Q1/25 FINANCIAL AND OPERATIONAL OVERVIEW

    • Generated revenue of $552 million compared to $638 million in Q1/24 and $561 million in Q4/24.
      • Lower revenue compared with the prior year is primarily attributed to upfront revenue recognized in the Energy Infrastructure (“EI”) product line in Q1/24 on the extension and modification of an existing EI contract previously accounted for as an operating lease in the Eastern Hemisphere (“EH”) region.
    • Recorded gross margin before depreciation and amortization of $161 million, or 29% of revenue, compared to $119 million, or 19% of revenue in Q1/24 and $174 million, or 31% of revenue during Q4/24.
      • EI and After-Market Services (“AMS”) product lines generated 70% of consolidated gross margin before depreciation and amortization during Q1/25.
      • Engineered Systems (“ES”) gross margin before depreciation and amortization increased to 18% in Q1/25 compared to 5% in Q1/24 primarily due to costs recognized in Q1/24 related to an international ES project. ES gross margin before depreciation and amortization decreased compared to Q4/24 due to product mix.
    • Adjusted earnings before finance costs, income taxes, depreciation, and amortization (“adjusted EBITDA”) of $113 million compared to $69 million in Q1/24 and $121 million during Q4/24. The year-over-year increase in adjusted EBITDA was primarily due to costs recognized related to an international ES project in Q1/24.
    • SG&A was $57 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, a decrease of $21 million from the same period in 2024, primarily due to decreased share-based compensation resulting from mark-to-market volatility on share prices in the first quarter of 2025, and lower costs and improved efficiencies, partially offset by executive transition costs.
    • Cash provided by operating activities was $96 million, which included net working capital recovery of $34 million. This compares to cash provided by operating activities of $101 million in Q1/24 and $113 million in Q4/24. Free cash flow increased to $85 million in Q1/25 compared to $72 million during Q1/24 and $76 million during Q4/24 primarily due to lower maintenance capital spend.
    • Return on capital employed (“ROCE”)2 increased to 14.2% in Q1/25 compared to 0.6% in Q1/24 and 10.3% in Q4/24. ROCE benefitted from an increase in trailing 12-month EBIT and lower average capital employed, predominantly due to a decline in net debt.
    • Invested $33 million in the business, consisting of $14 million in capital expenditures ($6 million for growth) and $19 million for expansion of an EI project in the EH region that will be accounted for as a finance lease.
    • Enerflex recorded ES bookings of $205 million during Q1/25, compared to $420 million during the same period of 2024. First quarter bookings were impacted by accelerated customer activity in the latter part of the fourth quarter of 2024, predominantly in the North America (“NAM”) segment, which resulted in select orders being pulled forward, and customers pausing some decisions on expenditures due to commodity price volatility and evolving market conditions. The Company continues to closely monitor activity levels and will adjust its business as appropriate. Enerflex’s backlog remains healthy at $1.2 billion at March 31, 2025.
    • Enerflex’s U.S. contract compression business continues to perform well, led by increasing natural gas production in the Permian.
      • This business generated revenue of $36 million and gross margin before depreciation and amortization of 72% during Q1/25 compared to $36 million and 75% in Q1/24 and $36 million and 78% during Q4/24.
      • Utilization remained stable at 94% across a fleet size of approximately 448,000 horsepower. Enerflex expects its North American contract compression fleet will grow to over 475,000 horsepower by the end of 2025.
    • The Board of Directors has declared a quarterly dividend of CAD$0.0375 per share, payable on June 3, 2025, to shareholders of record on May 21, 2025.

    BALANCE SHEET AND LIQUIDITY

    • Enerflex exited Q1/25 with net debt of $564 million, which included $75 million of cash and cash equivalents, a reduction of $179 million compared to Q1/24 and $52 million lower than the fourth quarter of 2024.
    • Enerflex’s bank-adjusted net debt-to-EBITDA ratio was approximately 1.3x at the end of Q1/25, down from 2.2x at the end of Q1/24 and 1.5x at the end of Q4/24.

    MANAGEMENT COMMENTARY

    Preet S. Dhindsa, Enerflex’s President & Chief Executive Officer (Interim), stated: “We are pleased to report another strong quarter of financial and operational results. Our Energy Infrastructure and After-Market Services business lines continue to deliver steady performance and reinforce Enerflex’s ability to generate sustainable returns across our global platform. Visibility for the ES product line remains solid, with backlog exiting Q1/25 at $1.2 billion, although we continue to closely monitor evolving market conditions and will adjust this business as appropriate. Despite increasing near-term risk and uncertainty, the fundamental drivers behind our business remain intact, namely global energy security and the shift toward low-emissions natural gas. Each of our business lines are delivering solid results and we believe all are well positioned to benefit from these fundamental drivers.”

    Joe Ladouceur, Enerflex’s Chief Financial Officer (Interim), stated, “Enerflex repaid an additional $74 million of debt during Q1/25 and reduced our leverage ratio to 1.3 times, reflective of strong operational execution and disciplined capital allocation. Our priorities are generating sustainable free cash flow, solidifying our balance sheet health, and positioning the Company for long-term growth and value creation. We’re sharpening our focus on boosting profitability, strengthening the resilience of our core operations, and ensuring Enerflex generates sustained, attractive returns for shareholders.”

    SUMMARY RESULTS

        Three months ended March 31,  
    ($ millions, except percentages)   2025     2024  
    Revenue   $ 552     $ 638  
    Gross margin     128       87  
    Gross margin as a percentage of revenue     23.2 %     13.6 %
    Selling, general and administrative expenses (“SG&A”)     57       78  
    Foreign exchange loss     –       1  
    Operating income     71       8  
    EBITDA1     105       47  
    EBIT1     66       3  
    EBT1     43       (23 )
    Net earnings (loss)     24       (18 )
    Long-term debt     639       853  
    Net debt2     564       743  
    Cash provided by operating activities     96       101  
                 
    Key Financial Performance Indicators (“KPIs”)            
    ES bookings3   $ 205     $ 420  
    ES backlog3     1,206       1,266  
    EI contract backlog4     1,497       1,639  
    Gross margin before depreciation and amortization (“Gross margin before D&A”)5     161       119  
    Gross margin before D&A as a percentage of revenue5     29.2 %     18.7 %
    Adjusted EBITDA6     113       69  
    Free cash flow7     85       72  
    Bank-adjusted net debt to EBITDA ratio7   1.3x     2.2x  
    Return on capital employed (“ROCE”)7,8     14.2 %     0.6 %

    1EBITDA is defined as earnings before finance costs, income taxes, depreciation and amortization. EBIT is defined as earnings before finance costs and income taxes. EBT is defined as earnings before taxes.
    2Net debt is defined as total long-term debt less cash and cash equivalent as presented in the Financial Statements.
    3Refer to the “ES Bookings and Backlog” section of the MD&A for further details.
    4Refer to the “EI Contract Backlog” section of the MD&A for further details.
    5Refer to the “Gross Margin by Product line” section of the MD&A for further details.
    6Refer to the “Adjusted EBITDA” section of the MD&A for further details.
    7Refer to the “Non-IFRS Measures” section of the MD&A for further details.
    8Determined by using the trailing 12-month period.

    Enerflex’s interim consolidated financial statements and notes (the “financial statements”) and Management’s Discussion and Analysis (“MD&A”) as at March 31, 2025, can be accessed on the Company’s website at www.enerflex.com and under the Company’s SEDAR+ and EDGAR profiles at www.sedarplus.ca and www.sec.gov/edgar, respectively.

    OUTLOOK

    Industry Update

    Enerflex continues to expect operating results to be underpinned by the highly contracted EI product line and the recurring nature of AMS, which together are expected to account for approximately 65% of gross margin before depreciation and amortization during 2025. The EI product line is supported by customer contracts expected to generate approximately $1.5 billion of revenue over their remaining terms.

    Visibility for the ES product line remains solid, with a backlog of approximately $1.2 billion as at March 31, 2025, the majority of which is expected to convert into revenue over the next 12 months. During 2025, ES gross margins are expected to align more closely with historical averages, reflecting both weaker domestic natural gas prices through much of 2024 and a shift in project mix.

    While near-term ES revenue is expected to remain steady, Enerflex continues to closely monitor evolving market conditions and increased near-term risk and uncertainty, including the impact of tariffs and lower oil prices, and will adjust its business as appropriate. The Company expects to be partially protected from the direct and indirect impact of tariffs through its diversified operations and on-going risk management efforts. Enerflex’s operations in the USA, Canada and Mexico are largely distinct in the client partners and projects they serve. USA is Enerflex’s largest operating region, generating 45% of consolidated revenue on a trailing-twelve month basis by destination of sale, and we believe the Company is well positioned to benefit from growth in domestic energy production. Enerflex’s operations in Canada and Mexico generated 11% and 3% of consolidated revenue on a trailing twelve-month basis, respectively.

    Despite increased near-term risk and uncertainty for the ES product line, recent domestic natural gas prices have been constructive, and the medium-term outlook for ES products and services remains attractive, supported by anticipated growth in natural gas and produced water volumes across Enerflex’s global footprint.

    Capital Spending

    Enerflex continues to target a disciplined capital program in 2025, with total capital expenditures of $110 million to $130 million. This includes a total of approximately $70 million for maintenance and property, plant and equipment (“PP&E”) capital expenditures and growth spending of $40 million to $60 million. Disciplined capital spending will focus on customer supported opportunities primarily in the USA. Notably, the fundamentals for contract compression in the USA remain strong, led by expected increases in natural gas production in the Permian basin and capital spending discipline from market participants. Enerflex will continue to make selective customer supported growth investments in this business.

    Capital Allocation

    Providing meaningful direct shareholder returns is a priority for Enerflex, reflected through the 50% increase of the Company’s third quarter 2024 dividend, and implementation of the Normal Course Issuer Bid (“NCIB”).

    The NCIB commenced on April 1, 2025 and will terminate no later than March 31, 2026. Under the NCIB, the Company is authorized to acquire up to a maximum of 6,159,695 Common Shares or approximately 5% of its public float as at the application date, for cancellation. During the month of April 2025, Enerflex repurchased 690,500 Common Shares at an average price of CAD$10.15 per share.

    Going forward, capital allocation decisions will be based on delivering value to Enerflex shareholders and measured against Enerflex’s ability to maintain balance sheet strength. In addition to increases in the Company’s dividend, share repurchases, and disciplined growth capital spending, Enerflex will also consider further debt reduction to strengthen its balance sheet and lower net finance costs. Unlocking greater financial flexibility positions the Company to respond to evolving market conditions and capitalize on opportunities to optimize its debt stack.

    DIVIDEND DECLARATION

    Enerflex is committed to paying a sustainable quarterly cash dividend to shareholders. The Board of Directors has declared a quarterly dividend of CAD$0.0375 per share, payable on June 3, 2025, to shareholders of record on May 21, 2025.

    CONFERENCE CALL AND WEBCAST DETAILS

    Investors, analysts, members of the media, and other interested parties, are invited to participate in a conference call and audio webcast on Thursday, May 8, 2025 at 8:00 a.m. (MDT), where members of senior management will discuss the Company’s results. A question-and-answer period will follow.

    To participate, register at https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BIbf48293aea6d4b518127ab7e050c6058. Once registered, participants will receive the dial-in numbers and a unique PIN to enter the call. The audio webcast of the conference call will be available on the Enerflex website at www.enerflex.com under the Investors section or can be accessed directly at https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/oqas9bdk.

    NON-IFRS MEASURES

    Throughout this news release and other materials disclosed by the Company, Enerflex employs certain measures to analyze its financial performance, financial position, and cash flows, including net debt-to-EBITDA ratio and bank-adjusted net debt-to-EBITDA ratio. These non-IFRS measures are not standardized financial measures under IFRS and may not be comparable to similar financial measures disclosed by other issuers. Accordingly, non-IFRS measures should not be considered more meaningful than generally accepted accounting principles measures as indicators of Enerflex’s performance. Refer to “Non-IFRS Measures” of Enerflex’s MD&A for the three months ended March 31, 2025, for information which is incorporated by reference into this news release and can be accessed on Enerflex’s website at www.enerflex.com and under the Company’s SEDAR+ and EDGAR profiles at www.sedarplus.ca and www.sec.gov/edgar, respectively.

    ADJUSTED EBITDA

        Three months ended March 31, 2025  
    ($ millions)   NAM     LATAM     EH     Total  
    Net earnings1                     $ 24  
    Income taxes1                       19  
    Net finance costs1,2                       23  
    EBIT3   $ 38     $ 19     $ 12     $ 66  
    Depreciation and Amortization     16       11       12       39  
    EBITDA   $ 54     $ 30     $ 24     $ 105  
    Share-based compensation     (2 )     (1 )     –       (3 )
    Impact of finance leases                        
    Principal payments received     –       –       8       8  
    Loss on redemption options3                       3  
    Adjusted EBITDA   $ 52     $ 29     $ 32     $ 113  

    1The Company included net earnings (loss), income taxes, and net finance costs on a consolidated basis to reconcile to EBIT.
    2Net finance costs are considered corporate expenditures and therefore have not been allocated to reporting segments.
    3EBIT includes $3 million loss on redemption options associated with the Notes. Debt is managed within Corporate and is not allocated to reporting segments.

        Three months ended March 31, 2024  
    ($ millions)   NAM     LATAM     EH     Total  
    Net loss1                     $ (18 )
    Income taxes1                       (5 )
    Net finance costs1,2                       26  
    EBIT   $ 33     $ 5     $ (35 )   $ 3  
    Depreciation and amortization     18       10       16       44  
    EBITDA   $ 51     $ 15     $ (19 )   $ 47  
    Restructuring, transaction and integration costs     3       2       1       6  
    Share-based compensation     3       1       2       6  
    Impact of finance leases                        
    Upfront gain     –       –       (3 )     (3 )
    Principal payments received     –       –       13       13  
    Adjusted EBITDA   $ 57     $ 18     $ (6 )   $ 69  

    1The Company included net earnings (loss), income taxes, and net finance costs on a consolidated basis to reconcile to EBIT.
    2Net finance costs are considered corporate expenditures and therefore have not been allocated to reporting segments.

    FREE CASH FLOW

    The Company defines free cash flow as cash provided by (used in) operating activities, less total capital expenditures (growth and maintenance) for EI assets – operating leases and PP&E, mandatory debt repayments, and lease payments, while proceeds on disposals of PP&E and EI assets – operating leases are added back. Free cash flow may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies as it does not have a standardized meaning under IFRS. Management uses this non-IFRS measure to assess the level of free cash generated to fund other non-operating activities. These activities could include dividend payments, share repurchases, and non-mandatory debt repayments. Free cash flow is also used in calculating the dividend payout ratio.

        Three months ended March 31,  
    ($ millions, except percentages)   2025     2024  
    Cash provided by operating activities before changes in working capital and other1   $ 62     $ 18  
    Net change in working capital and other     34       83  
    Cash provided by operating activities2   $ 96     $ 101  
    Less:            
    Capital expenditures – Maintenance and PP&E     (8 )     (9 )
    Capital expenditures – Growth     (6 )     (8 )
    Mandatory debt repayments     –       (10 )
    Lease payments     (6 )     (4 )
    Add:            
    Proceeds on disposals of PP&E and EI assets – operating leases     9       2  
    Free cash flow   $ 85     $ 72  
    Dividends paid     6       2  
    Dividend payout ratio     7.1 %     2.8 %

    1Enerflex also refers to cash provided by operating activities before changes in working capital and other as “Funds from operations” or “FFO”.
    2Enerflex also refers to cash provided by operating activities as “Cashflow from operations” or “CFO”.

    BANK-ADJUSTED NET DEBT-TO-EBITDA RATIO

    The Company defines net debt as short- and long-term debt less cash and cash equivalents at period end, which is then divided by EBITDA for the trailing 12 months. In assessing whether the Company is compliant with the financial covenants related to its debt instruments, certain adjustments are made to net debt and EBITDA to determine Enerflex’s bank-adjusted net debt-to-EBITDA ratio. These adjustments and Enerflex’s bank-adjusted net-debt-to EBITDA ratio are calculated in accordance with, and derived from, the Company’s financing agreements.

    GROSS MARGIN BEFORE DEPRECIATION AND AMORTIZATION

    Gross margin before depreciation and amortization is a non-IFRS measure defined as gross margin excluding the impact of depreciation and amortization. The historical costs of assets may differ if they were acquired through acquisition or constructed, resulting in differing depreciation. Gross margin before depreciation and amortization is useful to present operating performance of the business before the impact of depreciation and amortization that may not be comparable across assets.

    ADVISORY REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

    This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws and “forward-looking statements” (and together with “forward-looking information”, “FLI”) within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the US Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other than statements of historical fact are FLI. The use of any of the words “anticipate”, “believe”, “could”, “expect”, “future”, “may”, “potential”, “should”, “will” and similar expressions, (including negatives thereof) are intended to identify FLI.

    In particular, this news release includes (without limitation) FLI pertaining to:

    • expectations that the North American contract compression fleet will grow to over 475,000 horsepower by the end of 2025;
    • Enerflex’s ability to generate sustainable free cash flow, solidify its balance sheet health, and position the Company for long-term growth and value creation, and the time required in connection therewith, if at all;
    • disclosures under the heading “Outlook” including:
      • the highly contracted EI product line and the recurring nature of AMS will, together, account for approximately 65% of Enerflex’s gross margin before depreciation and amortization during 2025;
      • customer contracts within Enerflex’s EI product line will generate approximately $1.5 billion of revenue over their remaining terms;
      • a majority of the ES product line backlog of approximately $1.2 billion as at March 31, 2025, will convert into revenue over the next 12 months;
      • ES gross margins are expected to align more closely with historical averages while near term ES revenue will remain steady;
      • expectations that the Company will be partially protected from the direct and indirect impact of tariffs through its diversified operations and on-going risk management efforts;
      • in respect of the USA, expectations that the Company is well positioned to benefit from growth in domestic energy production;
      • natural gas and produced water volumes are anticipated to grow across Enerflex’s global footprint, supporting an attractive medium-term outlook for ES products and services;
      • total capital expenditures in 2025 will be $110 million to $130 million which includes approximately $70 million for maintenance and PP&E capital expenditures and growth spending of $40 million to $60 million;
      • capital spending will focus on customer supported opportunities primarily in the USA;
      • the fundamentals for contract compression in the USA remain strong, led by expected increases in natural gas production in the Permian basin and capital spending discipline from market participants;
      • considerations to further reduce debt to strengthen our balance sheet and lower net financing costs and that doing so will position the Company to respond to evolving market conditions and capitalize on opportunities to optimize its debt stack;
    • the ability of Enerflex to continue to pay a sustainable quarterly cash dividend; and
    • using free cash generated to fund other non-operating activities including dividend payments, share repurchases, and non-mandatory debt repayments, if at all.

    FLI reflect management’s current beliefs and assumptions with respect to such things as the impact of general economic conditions; commodity prices; the markets in which Enerflex’s products and services are used; general industry conditions, forecasts, and trends; changes to, and introduction of new, governmental regulations, laws, and income taxes; increased competition; availability of qualified personnel; political unrest and geopolitical conditions; and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of Enerflex. More specifically, Enerflex’s expectations in respect of its FLI are based on a number of assumptions, estimates and projections developed based on past experience and anticipated trends, including but not limited to:

    • the ability of the Company to adjust the business as appropriate in response to ES activity levels, evolving market conditions, and increased near-term risk and uncertainty, including the impact of tariffs and lower oil prices;
    • market dynamics, including increased energy demand, infrastructure development, and production activity, will drive growth in natural gas and produced water volumes across Enerflex’s global footprint;
    • market conditions, customer activity, and industry fundamentals will support stable demand across Enerflex’s product lines and geographic regions throughout 2025;
    • the high level of contractual commitments within the EI product line and the predictable, recurring revenue from AMS will continue;
    • existing customer contracts within the EI product line will remain in effect and with no material cancellations or renegotiations over their remaining terms;
    • the execution of projects within the ES product line will proceed as scheduled and the conversion to revenue will proceed without significant delays or cancellations;
    • no significant unforeseen cost overruns or project delays;
    • market conditions continuing to support the NCIB within the anticipated timeframe; and
    • Enerflex will maintain sufficient cash flow, profitability, and financial flexibility to support the ongoing payment of a sustainable quarterly cash dividend, subject to market conditions, operational performance, and board approval.

    As a result of the foregoing, actual results, performance, or achievements of Enerflex could differ and such differences could be material from those expressed in, or implied by, the FLI. The principal risks, uncertainties and other factors affecting Enerflex and its business are identified under the heading “Risk Factors” in: (i) Enerflex’s Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2024, dated February 27, 2025; and (ii) Enerflex’s Annual Report dated February 26, 2025, copies of which are available under the electronic profile of the Company on SEDAR+ and EDGAR at www.sedarplus.ca and www.sec.gov/edgar, respectively.

    The FLI included in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and are based on the information available to the Company at such time and, other than as required by law, Enerflex disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any FLI, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. This news release and its contents should not be construed, under any circumstances, as investment, tax, or legal advice.

    The outlook provided in this news release is based on assumptions about future events, including economic conditions and proposed courses of action, based on Management’s assessment of the relevant information currently available. The outlook is based on the same assumptions and risk factors set forth above and is based on the Company’s historical results of operations. The outlook set forth in this news release was approved by Management and the Board of Directors. Management believes that the prospective financial information set forth in this news release has been prepared on a reasonable basis, reflecting Management’s best estimates and judgments, and represents the Company’s expected course of action in developing and executing its business strategy relating to its business operations. The prospective financial information set forth in this news release should not be relied on as necessarily indicative of future results. Actual results may vary, and such variance may be material.

    ABOUT ENERFLEX

    Enerflex is a premier integrated global provider of energy infrastructure and energy transition solutions, deploying natural gas, low-carbon, and treated water solutions – from individual, modularized products and services to integrated custom solutions. With over 4,600 engineers, manufacturers, technicians, and innovators, Enerflex is bound together by a shared vision: Transforming Energy for a Sustainable Future. The Company remains committed to the future of natural gas and the critical role it plays, while focused on sustainability offerings to support the energy transition and growing decarbonization efforts.

    Enerflex’s common shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol “EFX” and on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “EFXT”. For more information about Enerflex, visit www.enerflex.com.

    For investor and media enquiries, contact:

    Preet S. Dhindsa
    President and Chief Executive Officer (Interim)
    E-mail: PDhindsa@enerflex.com

    Joe Ladouceur
    Chief Financial Officer (Interim)
    E-mail: JLadouceur@enerflex.com

    Jeff Fetterly
    Vice President, Corporate Development and Capital Markets
    E-mail: JFetterly@enerflex.com

    The MIL Network –

    May 8, 2025
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