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  • MIL-OSI Economics: Igor Sechin Presents Keynote Speech at SPIEF-2025 Energy Panel

    Source: Rosneft

    Headline: Igor Sechin Presents Keynote Speech at SPIEF-2025 Energy Panel

    As part of the XXVIII St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, an Energy Panel organized with the support of Rosneft was held. Igor Sechin, Chief Executive Officer of the Company, presented the keynote speech “Odyssey Of The Global Economy In Search Of The Golden Fleece. The New Landscape Of Global Energy”.

    The head of Rosneft presented a detailed analysis of the current situation on the energy market.

    Special attention in the report was paid to the overdue transformation of the global energy sector. The development of high technologies requires a significant amount of natural resources, including energy resources. Training and use of artificial intelligence on the basis of large data processing centers is a highly energy-intensive process.

    Igor Sechin noted in his report that our civilization is at a critical juncture – the global energy industry is facing a large-scale transformation and the energy consumption model is changing. Against this backdrop, every country is facing the issue of the need to ensure energy security.

    Huge investments made in recent years to develop alternative energy sources have not yielded tangible results. Moreover, the inclusion of renewable energy sources in the energy systems of a number of countries has reduced reliability and even caused large-scale blackouts.

    The Energy Panel at SPIEF also brought together heads of major energy companies and leading market experts to discuss the prospects and new vectors of global energy development in the emerging multipolar world.

    The event was also attended by Mohammed Bin Saleh Al-Sada, Chairman of Rosneft’s Board of Directors, Delcy Rodriguez, Executive Vice President of the Republic of Venezuela, Zhang Daowei, Vice President of CNPC, Panda Madhusudana Shiva Prasad, Executive Director of Reliance Industries, Simon Aloysius Mantiri, Chief Executive Officer of Pertamina, Alexander Dynkin, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Zhurabek Mirzamakhmudov, Minister of Energy of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Zhurabek Mirzamakhmudov, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the Japanese Government’s non-profit initiative for the development of a new oil and gas industry in the Republic of Uzbekistan, and the Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the Japanese Government’s non-profit initiative for the development of a new oil and gas industry.

    The Energy Panel was moderated by Rick Sanchez, a renowned American journalist and host of the RT TV channel.

    THE NEW FACE OF GLOBAL ENERGY

    The current state of the global energy industry is at the stage of forming a new image due to the multiple growth of electricity consumption, the generation of which will be provided by both fossil fuels and renewable sources, said the head of Rosneft. In his report, Igor Sechin described the main factors influencing the change in this image, including: the need to ensure energy security and commercial efficiency of energy sources, budget deficit and avalanche growth of public debt, as well as the demography of developing countries.

    Another factor that, according to the head of Rosneft, affects both energy production and consumption growth is the digital revolution with the application of artificial intelligence and work with big data.

    The electric power sector will have a special role to play, as it will have to overcome the risk of shortages due to the surge in consumption growth in China, India, developing countries and the huge need for electricity to supply data centers and heavy industry. According to Sechin, already today the level of electricity generation in China is more than twice as high as in the U.S., whereas 20 years ago the situation was the opposite.

    In his opinion, investments in this sector will exceed investments in fossil fuels by 50% as early as 2025. ” Indeed, over the past 15 years, electricity consumption has grown at a faster pace, and according to IEA projections, electricity generation is set to nearly double over the next 25 years,” Igor Sechin added.

    At the same time, the largest contribution to this growth will also be made by the countries of the Asia-Pacific region, which will provide 60% of the consumption growth. “This trend is particularly evident in India, where peak demand on the power system has risen by nearly 70% over the past decade,” said the head of Rosneft.

    In his report, Igor Sechin quoted Vaclav Smil, one of the most respected scientists of our time and a proponent of a realistic approach to the transition to new energy sources: “Energy is the universal currency. One of its many forms must be transformed to get anything done.”

    The head of Rosneft noted that modern societies with high energy consumption prefer to use resources with the highest useful energy yield, primarily fossil fuels.

    “Those who can actually take part in shaping the new energy landscape will have the opportunity to achieve advanced economic and technological growth. This brings to mind the legend of the search for the Golden Fleece by the Argonauts who overcame enormous hurdles and troubles on the way to achieving happiness and prosperity,” Igor Sechin said.

    The synthesis of conventional and alternative energy sources is currently the optimal solution for the development of the global energy sector, the head of Rosneft is convinced.

    Igor Sechin emphasized that the search for new energy sources never stops, and today there is active work on the development of a number of promising technologies. However, their full-fledged implementation is still a long way off, as current technological solutions in this area are too expensive and inferior to traditional energy sources in terms of a number of parameters.

    CHINA: SMART APPROACH AND ENERGY INDEPENDENCE

    Igor Sechin noted that China is a unique example of a competent approach to the development of the energy system – the country now accounts for a third of global investments in the energy sector.

    “In my opinion, China, which has already ensured its energy security, is confidently moving towards complete energy independence, forming a stable energy balance based on its own resources. There is no doubt, taking into account the persistence and professionalism of the Chinese comrades, that in the foreseeable future they will achieve the desired result, which will turn China from an importer of energy resources into a major energy exporter,” Rosneft CEO said.

    In recent years, China has been commissioning the largest amount of new renewable energy capacity and is home to more than 70% of the world’s green economy equipment manufacturing capacity. This applies to the entire value chain: from critical minerals to the production of high-tech equipment that has no analogues in Western countries, Sechin emphasized.

    The head of Rosneft also noted China’s efforts in increasing investments in related infrastructure: investments in power grids increased by 15% last year and may double this year.

    At the same time, China has never abandoned fossil fuels. The country has outpaced the rest of the world in terms of commissioning new coal-fired generation capacity over the past five years. “Today, coal accounts for almost 60%  of China’s electricity generation. Last year alone, China issued permits for about 100 gigawatts of new coal-fired power generation , the highest in a decade, which should strengthen coal’s role in the grid,” the Rosneft head emphasized.

    Igor Sechin noted that an important part of the strategy to reduce dependence on energy imports is the processing of coal into synthetic fuels and chemical products.

    “Chinese companies are investing billions of dollars in the development of this industry. According to experts, today in China 40 million tons of coal is used to produce synthetic fuels and more than 260 mln tons for ammonia and methanol production,” Igor Sechin stressed.

    ROSNEFT SYNTHETIC OIL

    Rosneft has completed the development of proprietary technologies and catalysts throughout the entire chain of the GTL process and plans to introduce this technology in Taimyr, Igor Sechin said. He added that all stages of the technological process are covered by relevant patents.

    The head of the Company demonstrated to the participants of the energy panel a flask with the obtained fuel, noting that it is synthetic oil consisting of the purest hydrocarbon molecules with zero sulfur content.

    “To anyone who is interested, we are ready to provide samples,” he added, addressing the participants and audience of the Energy Panel.

    NUCLEAR RENAISSANCE

    The importance of nuclear power, which is a natural complement to fossil fuels, is growing, Igor Sechin noted.

    A few years ago, the nuclear power industry was in a deep crisis due to the decline in activity in the industry. However, then the situation started to change. “Over the past five years, global annual investments in nuclear energy have increased by 50%, reaching 70 billion dollars last year . China has become one of the leaders in nuclear power today. Over the past ten years, the installed capacity of nuclear generation in this country has increased fivefold and approached 60 GW. China plans to complete the construction of 32 more reactors in the coming years,” said Rosneft’s head.

    At the same time, Sechin called it important that China relies on the latest technological achievements of the leading nuclear powers – Russia, the United States and France – to develop its nuclear industry.

    He noted that Russia has many years of experience in building nuclear power plants. The cost of the most modern Russian VVER-1200 reactor is significantly lower than that of the American AP-1000. Today, such reactors are already operating in Russia and are planned to be commissioned in friendly countries.

    “Today, Russia is the only country in the world that has expertise in the entire technological chain of the nuclear fuel cycle, from uranium mining to nuclear fuel disposal. In total, 80 nuclear reactors have been built in the world using Russian technologies,” Igor Sechin said.

    Also, a sodium-cooled nuclear reactor belonging to the category of fast neutron reactors, the BN-800, has been successfully operating in our country for ten years, another latest-generation fast neutron reactor, the BN-1200, is under construction.

    The head of Rosneft expects further growth of investments in the nuclear sector: new technologies, such as small modular reactors, are now attracting increased attention from investors. While such reactors are more mobile, their implementation also requires investments in the development of power grids. In addition, special attention should be paid to their safety and security against terrorist threats.

    ENERGY – DRIVING FORCE OF THE NEW TECHNOLOGICAL REVOLUTION

    The energy sector is one of the main drivers of the new technological revolution, Igor Sechin believes.

    He noted that the digital revolution with the application of artificial intelligence and work with big data should become the basis for labor productivity growth. According to the assessment of investment bank Goldman Sachs, large-scale implementation of high technologies will increase labor productivity by 1.5 p.p. for developed countries and by 1 p.p. for developing countries within 10 years.

    “The development of advanced technologies requires substantial natural resources, as well as large-scale investments in infrastructure and human capital. This, in turn, means a multiple increase in energy consumption,” Rosneft CEO noted.

    He recalled that the use of artificial intelligence on the basis of big data processing centers is a highly energy-intensive process. Such centers, according to Sechin, will contribute more to the growth of global electricity demand than heavy industry or heat supply.

    Igor Sechin also cited the development of the cryptocurrency market as an example of the impact of digitalization on the global energy system. According to him, in less than ten years, cryptocurrency has become an independent industry that today consumes resources on a par with entire countries. For example, the energy consumption of the entire bitcoin network as of May 2025 has already exceeded the level of electricity consumption in Poland.

    “GREEN” TRANSITION TO REGRESSION

    Proponents of the “net zero” concept are leading mankind to energy regression, Igor Sechin believes.

    He recalled that whenever mankind switched to a new type of fuel, the efficiency of the energy system increased and its capabilities expanded. “This was due to the fact that the new energy source usually had a higher energy flux density,” the Rosneft head explained.

    Eminent scientist Pyotr Kapitsa proved – energy flow density is a key characteristic of any kind of energy. “By this indicator, such types of fossil fuels as coal (135.1 W/m2), oil (195 W/m2) and gas (482 W/m2), as well as nuclear energy (241 W/m2) are far ahead of both solar (6.6 W/m2) and wind energy (1.8 W/m2) . Thus, the concept of ‘net zero’ actually crosses out centuries of progressive development of society, offering mankind an energy regression,” said the head of Rosneft.

    At the same time, European politicians do not have the courage to publicly recognize this fact. “Their blind faith in the ‘green’ transition already resembles an addiction. As one of the classics of French literature aptly put: ‘A red nose is a sign of constancy of character’,” Igor Sechin emphasized. The ill-considered strategy of abandoning conventional generation has already resulted in the fact that the cost of electricity in Europe today is five times higher than in the US, he added.

    Sechin also reminded that the European Union continues to try to push through the reduction of the price cap on Russian oil to 45 dollars per barrel.

    “I believe that the real purpose of this is the EU’s desire to increase the efficiency of its purchasing from Russia, not to reduce Russian budget revenues, as was publicly declared. Figures confirm this: according to Western experts, since the beginning of 2023, Europe has purchased more than 20 billion euros worth of Russian oil, thus becoming the fourth largest buyer,” Sechin said.

    However, he thinks it is clear that the U.S. will not agree to lower the price cap because it would negatively affect the profitability of U.S. oil exports.

    THE DECLINE OF THE WEST

    Igor Sechin noted that interest payments on the U.S. government debt divert significant budgetary resources. He reminded that the predicament in which developed countries find themselves due to the growth of government debt is already reflected in the assessment of their creditworthiness. Thus, in May, Moody’s became the last of the three leading international rating agencies to strip the US of its highest credit rating.

    The Rosneft head explained that with the growing deficit, interest payments divert significant budget resources from social and defense spheres. “Last year, net interest payments on the national debt reached a trillion dollars, which accounted for 14% of all state budget expenditures, exceeded defense spending and is already approaching the amount of healthcare spending,” Sechin said.

    The head of Rosneft also recalled on history and gave an example of how great powers come to decline due to excessively high levels of government debt. ” By the late 18th century, French rulers had experienced firsthand how a fiscal guillotine could swiftly transform into a literal one,” Igor Sechin noted.

    By that time, France had accumulated so much debt that it took more than half of all government expenditures to service it, which led to an increase in taxes. According to the Rosneft CEO, this was one of the main reasons for the Great French Revolution, which, in essence, ensured the transition from a monarchy to a bourgeois parliamentary republic.

    INDUSTRY LEADERS

    The Energy Panel of the XXVIII St. Petersburg International Economic Forum continued with presentations by leading industry experts, politicians, scientists, government officials and heads of major international energy companies.

    Their assessments and forecasts largely coincided with the industry development concept presented by Igor Sechin, head of Rosneft.

    Mohammed Bin Saleh Al-Sada, Chairman of Rosneft’s Board of Directors, opened the discussion of Igor Sechin’s report, noting the depth of his analysis. “It was comprehensive – the way you showed that progress and energy are inseparable,” Al-Sada addressed Sechin.

    The head of Rosneft’s Board of Directors drew the audience’s attention to the fact that despite the active promotion of the idea of transition to renewable energy sources, the share of fossil energy sources in the energy mix has not changed in recent decades. He recalled that Igor Sechin mentioned in his report that fossil fuels account for 80% of the global energy balance.

    “I would also like to take as a baton from Mr. Sechin, and pass my comment to you. It’s like food for thought: are we really moving from fossil fuels to renewable fuels?”,” Al-Sada addressed the audience.

    Zhang Daowei, Vice President of China’s CNPC, noted that he listened with interest to the report of Rosneft’s CEO. In his speech, the top manager of the Chinese company expressed similar assessments of the ways of global energy development, in particular, the need for synergy between traditional and new energy sources.

    According to the vice president, CNPC, on the one hand, continues to increase the exploration and development of oil and gas fields domestically and import high-quality resources from abroad, including strengthening long-term cooperation with Russia in hydrocarbon trade. On the other hand, CNPC is actively pursuing a “green” strategy, low-carbon development and realizing the development of a “three-step strategy” combining oil and gas projects with wind, solar, geothermal, hydrogen and carbon capture technologies.

    Simon Aloysius Mantiri, President and CEO of Pertamina Indonesia, said the company is pursuing a dual growth strategy that is based on both conventional resources and low-carbon solutions. At the same time, natural gas plays an important role in the country’s energy mix.

    The head of Pertamina doubled down on the thesis of Igor Sechin’s report and emphasized that by achieving a balance of energy sources and a comprehensive approach, the company is able to ensure high rates of economic growth and, in parallel, carbon neutrality.

    Reliance Industries executive director P.M.S. Prasad said India is not choosing between energy access and innovation. “India is integrating both. By developing scalable, context-specific solutions, India is addressing local priorities while making a significant contribution to global sustainability. From rural microgrids to energy efficient data centers, India is turning its potential into a strategic asset,” Prasad said.

    He also emphasized the significant role of nuclear power generation in the country’s energy balance and spoke about plans to build nuclear power plants in India, including modular ones.

    The renewed interest in investments in NPP construction was noted in the speech of the Minister of Energy of Uzbekistan Zhurabek Mirzamakhmudov. He told about joint plans with Russia to build two units of 55 megawatts each, and two units of WWR type reactors – water-water energetic reactor. The head of the ministry also said that gas-fired power plants are being installed in the country , hydropower is being developed, the share of renewable sources is increasing, and storage systems are being created at the same time.

    The Minister noted the substantial nature of Igor Sechin’s report, which contains a detailed analysis and reflects all trends in the development of global energy, science and economy.

    In her speech, Delcy Rodriguez, Executive Vice President of the Republic of Venezuela, supported the thesis expressed by the Head of Rosneft that energy security issues should come first and named the main components of a stable energy system of the future: energy security, reliable supplies, accessibility for all, and at the same time respect for nature – with minimal environmental impact.

    Speaking about the main threats to energy security, Rodriguez supported Igor Sechin’s assessment: illegal sanctions against producing countries and the hegemony of the dollar are the main threats.

    Nobuo Tanaka, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the Japanese government’s non-profit Low Carbon Technology Initiative, for his part, said that the answer to energy security is always related to diversifying sources of supply, improving energy efficiency and seeking alternative energy sources, including renewable energy, nuclear energy and regulating the market through predictable policies.

    Igor Sechin’s thesis that the digital revolution opens a new era in the development of the oil and gas industry was warmly echoed by the audience. In particular, David Gadzhimirzaev, General Director of TOFS Oilfield Services Group, thanked Rosneft for supporting innovation and technology development. He emphasized the importance of ensuring the availability, stability and reliability of resources, which is exactly what new technologies that will reduce the cost of bringing barrels to the surface can provide.

    REPORT OF THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF ROSNEFT I.I. SECHIN AT THE SPIEF ENERGY PANEL

    PRESENTATION OF I.I. SECHIN`S REPORT AT THE SPIEF ENERGY PANEL

    Department of Information and Advertising
    Rosneft Oil Company
    June 21, 2025

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: 8 killed in hot air balloon crash in Brazil

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    SAO PAULO, June 21 (Xinhua) — Eight people were killed on Saturday when a hot air balloon carrying tourists caught fire and crashed in Praia Grande, a popular tourist destination in southern Brazil’s Santa Catarina state, regional authorities said.

    The balloon was carrying 21 people when it burst into flames and crashed to the ground – an incident that was captured on video by nearby tourists and widely shared on social media.

    “There were 21 people in the balloon – 8 of them died, 13 survived,” Santa Catarina Governor Jorginho Mello said on the social network X.

    Praia Grande is known as one of the best places in southern Brazil for hot air balloon rides. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Global Energy Balance: Heads of Major Energy Companies, Experts Discuss Future of Energy Sector at SPIEF

    Source: Rosneft

    Headline: Global Energy Balance: Heads of Major Energy Companies, Experts Discuss Future of Energy Sector at SPIEF

    At the Energy Panel of the XXVIII St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, leading industry experts, politicians, scientists, government officials and heads of major international energy companies discussed current trends in the global energy market.

    Their assessments and forecasts largely coincided with the visionary concept of industry development presented by Igor Sechin, Head of Rosneft. In his report “Odyssey of the Global Economy in Search of the Golden Fleece. The New Landscape a of the Global Energy Industry”, he announced that the current state of the global energy industry is at the stage of formation of a new image due to the multiple growth of electricity consumption, the generation of which will be provided by both fossil fuels and renewable energy sources. According to him, the optimal solution today is “synthesis of conventional and alternative energy sources”.

    The event, organized with the support of Rosneft, was addressed by Mohammed Bin Saleh Al-Sada, Chairman of the Rosneft Board of Directors, Delcy Rodriguez, Executive Vice President of the Republic of Venezuela, Simon Aloysius Mantiri, Chief Executive Officer of Pertamina, Zhang Daowei, Vice President of CNPC, Shiva Prasad Panda Madhusudana, Executive Director of Reliance Industries, Alexander Dynkin, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Zhurabek Mirzamakhmudov, Minister of Energy of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Nobuo Tanaka, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the Japanese government’s non-profit Low Carbon Technology Initiative, and David Gadzhimirzaev, President of TOFS.

    ENERGY TRANSITION WITHOUT TRANSITION

    Mohammed Bin Saleh Al-Sada opened the discussion of Igor Sechin’s report, noting the depth of his analysis. “It was comprehensive – the way you showed that progress and energy are inseparable,” Al-Sada addressed Sechin.

    The head of Rosneft’s Board of Directors drew the audience’s attention to the fact that despite the active promotion of the idea of transition to RES, the share of fossil energy sources in the energy mix has not changed in recent decades. He recalled that Igor Sechin mentioned in the report that fossil fuels account for 80% of the global energy mix. “And this statistic has not changed for the last 20 years! We are fluttering around these 80% fossil fuels and energy sources, and so not much has changed!” exclaimed Al-Sada, describing the situation in the global energy sector.

    “In other words, we are essentially not making any transition away from hydrocarbons,” he concluded, emphasizing that the transition to renewables is being imposed on the industry and the public.

    “I would also like to take as a baton from Mr. Sechin, and pass my comment to you. It’s like food for thought: are we actually transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable fuels?“,” Al-Sada addressed the audience.

    The Rosneft Chairman also noted that energy demand does not always coincide with production growth for various reasons.

    “I would like to express two small thoughts in order to further enhance the valuable things we heard in Mr. Sechin’s words. <...> Lack of investment is already a reality in the hydrocarbon and energy sectors. This is something that could really bring us to a serious energy shortage. “If this trend continues we could face an energy shortage. This is not only my personal opinion, but also what a large number of analysts, including the International Energy Agency, and other respected experts, who in their reviews have emphasized the importance of having sufficient investment in the hydrocarbon sector. Otherwise, we will face the risk of a primary energy shortage!”, emphasized Al-Sada.

    FUTURE FOR SYNERGY

    Zhang Daowei, Vice President of China’s CNPC, remarked on the interest in the report by Rosneft’s CEO. In his speech, the top manager of the Chinese company expressed similar assessments of the ways of development of the global energy sector – in particular, the need for synergy between traditional and new energy sources.

    “We have always believed that in the context of the energy transition course, it is necessary to adhere to synergetic, integrated development of traditional and new energy sources, to take full account of the characteristics and degree of development of our countries’ markets, to properly link energy transition with energy security, and to promote a fair and sustainable model of energy transformation,” Daowei said.

    According to the vice president, under this philosophy, CNPC, on the one hand, continues to increase the exploration and development of oil and gas fields domestically and import high-quality resources from abroad, including strengthening long-term cooperation with Russia in the field of hydrocarbon trade. On the other hand, CNPC is actively pursuing a green, low-carbon development strategy and realizing the development of a “three-step strategy” combining oil and gas projects with wind, solar, geothermal, hydrogen and carbon capture technologies.

    Simon Aloysius Mantiri, President and CEO of Pertamina Indonesia, said that the company is pursuing a dual growth strategy that is based on both conventional resources and low-carbon solutions. Meanwhile, natural gas plays an important role in the country’s energy mix.

    “Natural gas is at the center of our strategy to transition to cleaner fuels. And today we are expanding our LNG capacity and capability for both domestic and export needs,” he said.

    The Pertamina chief virtually reiterated the point made in Igor Sechin’s report and emphasized that by achieving a balance of energy sources and a comprehensive approach, the company is able to ensure high economic growth and carbon neutrality in parallel.

    Reliance Industries CEO P.M.S. Prasad said India does not choose between energy access and innovation. “It is integrating both. By developing scalable, context-specific solutions, it is addressing local priorities while making a significant contribution to global sustainability. From rural microgrids to energy efficient data centers, India is turning its potential into a strategic asset,” Prasad said.

    He emphasized that international partnerships play a vital role in this ambitious effort. “Energy remains a key cornerstone of the strategic relationship between India and Russia. India values this trusted partnership and appreciates the cooperation forged over decades. The leadership of both countries is committed to take this partnership to an even higher bar in the future,” summarized Reliance Industries’ CEO.

    NUCLEAR POWER PLANTS ARE NOT BEING WRITTEN OFF

    Rosneft CEO Igor Sechin, in his keynote speech at the Energy Panel, noted the growing interest in nuclear power generation worldwide and, accordingly, the growth of investments in this area. According to him, this is happening against the backdrop of growing energy consumption and in future nuclear power will be in demand along with fossil sources and renewable energy sources.

    Reliance Industries CEO Panda Madhusudana Shiva Prasad, in turn, speaking on India’s energy outlook, emphasized the significant role of nuclear power generation.

    “Gas, renewables supported by energy storage systems and a robust transmission grid, and nuclear power will play a key role. India’s bold nuclear program, including small modular reactors, reflects its commitment to long-term energy security and decarbonization,” Prasad said.

    The renewed interest in investments in NPP construction was noted in the speech of Uzbek Minister of Energy Zhurabek Mirzamakhmudov. He spoke about joint plans with Russia to build two units of 55 megawatts each, and two units of VWR type reactors – water-water power reactor. The head of the ministry also said that gas-fired power plants are being installed in the country, hydropower is being developed, the share of renewable sources is increasing, and storage systems are being created at the same time.

    The Minister noted the substantial nature of Igor Sechin’s report, which contains a detailed analysis and reflects all trends in the development of global energy, science and economy.

    ENERGY SECURITY IN FIRST PLACE

    Delcy Rodriguez, Executive Vice President of the Republic of Venezuela, in her speech supported the thesis expressed by the head of Rosneft that energy security issues should come first.

    “We always advocate that the energy transition be carried out responsibly, taking into account reality, to avoid abrupt changes that could jeopardize energy security,” Rodriguez said.

    Venezuela’s Executive Vice President named the main components of a stable energy system of the future: energy security, reliable supply, accessibility for all, while respecting nature – with minimal environmental impact.

    Among the main threats to energy security, Rodriguez named illegal sanctions against producing countries and the hegemony of the dollar.

    Nobuo Tanaka, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the Japanese government’s non-profit Low Carbon Technology Initiative, said the answer to energy security is always to diversify supply sources, improve energy efficiency and seek alternative energy sources, including renewable energy, nuclear energy and regulate the market with predictable policies.

    AGAINST LOGIC

    The panelists drew attention to the political events of recent decades and stated that geopolitics is now shaping the direction of economic cooperation. And often against the logic of market expediency and economic efficiency.

    Tanaka recalled how he discussed Germany’s energy policy with Chancellor Merkel in 2009: “I asked her why Germany does not use nuclear power. She answered like this: Mr. Tanaka, I am a scientist, I know how important it is to use nuclear power, but in order to use it in Germany, she said, give me votes in exchange. Yes, she’s a good scientist, but she’s also a very smart politician.”

    The professor is sure that despite her experience Merkel made a very serious mistake by changing the policy on the use of nuclear power plants under the pressure of public opinion. Another mistake was the refusal to use Russian energy carriers and Russian natural gas. “I think she was misled,” Tanaka said.

    “Geopolitics is a factor of the 21st century global economy. It is geopolitical interests that brought the BRICS countries together.  The criterion for membership is not to use sanctions against other members of the organization. But geopolitics has also become a kind of “trap” for Germany after Trump’s victory,” said Alexander Dynkin, a member of the Russian Academy of Sciences.

    He noted that the European bureaucrats are concerned about the complete refusal of energy supplies from Russia by 2027. “They are not stopped by the growth of costs, undermining the competitiveness of the EU,” – said Dynkin and recalled that if in 2014, the U.S. GDP was ahead of the EU GDP. US GDP was only 12% ahead of EU GDP, last year the US economy was already 50% larger than the European one.

    “Although the German energy crisis is formally over, the country paid for it with three years of stagnation, deindustrialization, inflation, and migration crisis,” said the RAS academy member.

    DIGITAL REVOLUTION

    The thesis in Igor Sechin’s report that the digital revolution opens a new era in the development of the oil and gas industry was warmly echoed by the audience. In particular, David Gadzhimirzaev, General Director of TOFS Oilfield Services Group, thanked Rosneft for supporting innovation and technology development. He emphasized the importance of ensuring the availability, stability and reliability of resources, which is exactly what new technologies can provide, which will reduce the cost of bringing barrels to the surface.

    “We all know that just this year the Energy Strategy-2050 was approved, which includes the fact that by 2050 about 70% of the Russian Federation’s production will be from hard-to-recover reserves. Therefore, we are not only working on expertise, but also working on the production of new technologies,” Gadzhimirzaev said.

    Department of Information and Advertising
    Rosneft Oil Company
    June 21, 2025

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Global Energy Balance: Heads of Major Energy Companies, Experts Discuss Future of Energy Sector at SPIEF

    Source: Rosneft

    Headline: Global Energy Balance: Heads of Major Energy Companies, Experts Discuss Future of Energy Sector at SPIEF

    At the Energy Panel of the XXVIII St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, leading industry experts, politicians, scientists, government officials and heads of major international energy companies discussed current trends in the global energy market.

    Their assessments and forecasts largely coincided with the visionary concept of industry development presented by Igor Sechin, Head of Rosneft. In his report “Odyssey of the Global Economy in Search of the Golden Fleece. The New Landscape a of the Global Energy Industry”, he announced that the current state of the global energy industry is at the stage of formation of a new image due to the multiple growth of electricity consumption, the generation of which will be provided by both fossil fuels and renewable energy sources. According to him, the optimal solution today is “synthesis of conventional and alternative energy sources”.

    The event, organized with the support of Rosneft, was addressed by Mohammed Bin Saleh Al-Sada, Chairman of the Rosneft Board of Directors, Delcy Rodriguez, Executive Vice President of the Republic of Venezuela, Simon Aloysius Mantiri, Chief Executive Officer of Pertamina, Zhang Daowei, Vice President of CNPC, Shiva Prasad Panda Madhusudana, Executive Director of Reliance Industries, Alexander Dynkin, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Zhurabek Mirzamakhmudov, Minister of Energy of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Nobuo Tanaka, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the Japanese government’s non-profit Low Carbon Technology Initiative, and David Gadzhimirzaev, President of TOFS.

    ENERGY TRANSITION WITHOUT TRANSITION

    Mohammed Bin Saleh Al-Sada opened the discussion of Igor Sechin’s report, noting the depth of his analysis. “It was comprehensive – the way you showed that progress and energy are inseparable,” Al-Sada addressed Sechin.

    The head of Rosneft’s Board of Directors drew the audience’s attention to the fact that despite the active promotion of the idea of transition to RES, the share of fossil energy sources in the energy mix has not changed in recent decades. He recalled that Igor Sechin mentioned in the report that fossil fuels account for 80% of the global energy mix. “And this statistic has not changed for the last 20 years! We are fluttering around these 80% fossil fuels and energy sources, and so not much has changed!” exclaimed Al-Sada, describing the situation in the global energy sector.

    “In other words, we are essentially not making any transition away from hydrocarbons,” he concluded, emphasizing that the transition to renewables is being imposed on the industry and the public.

    “I would also like to take as a baton from Mr. Sechin, and pass my comment to you. It’s like food for thought: are we actually transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable fuels?“,” Al-Sada addressed the audience.

    The Rosneft Chairman also noted that energy demand does not always coincide with production growth for various reasons.

    “I would like to express two small thoughts in order to further enhance the valuable things we heard in Mr. Sechin’s words. <...> Lack of investment is already a reality in the hydrocarbon and energy sectors. This is something that could really bring us to a serious energy shortage. “If this trend continues we could face an energy shortage. This is not only my personal opinion, but also what a large number of analysts, including the International Energy Agency, and other respected experts, who in their reviews have emphasized the importance of having sufficient investment in the hydrocarbon sector. Otherwise, we will face the risk of a primary energy shortage!”, emphasized Al-Sada.

    FUTURE FOR SYNERGY

    Zhang Daowei, Vice President of China’s CNPC, remarked on the interest in the report by Rosneft’s CEO. In his speech, the top manager of the Chinese company expressed similar assessments of the ways of development of the global energy sector – in particular, the need for synergy between traditional and new energy sources.

    “We have always believed that in the context of the energy transition course, it is necessary to adhere to synergetic, integrated development of traditional and new energy sources, to take full account of the characteristics and degree of development of our countries’ markets, to properly link energy transition with energy security, and to promote a fair and sustainable model of energy transformation,” Daowei said.

    According to the vice president, under this philosophy, CNPC, on the one hand, continues to increase the exploration and development of oil and gas fields domestically and import high-quality resources from abroad, including strengthening long-term cooperation with Russia in the field of hydrocarbon trade. On the other hand, CNPC is actively pursuing a green, low-carbon development strategy and realizing the development of a “three-step strategy” combining oil and gas projects with wind, solar, geothermal, hydrogen and carbon capture technologies.

    Simon Aloysius Mantiri, President and CEO of Pertamina Indonesia, said that the company is pursuing a dual growth strategy that is based on both conventional resources and low-carbon solutions. Meanwhile, natural gas plays an important role in the country’s energy mix.

    “Natural gas is at the center of our strategy to transition to cleaner fuels. And today we are expanding our LNG capacity and capability for both domestic and export needs,” he said.

    The Pertamina chief virtually reiterated the point made in Igor Sechin’s report and emphasized that by achieving a balance of energy sources and a comprehensive approach, the company is able to ensure high economic growth and carbon neutrality in parallel.

    Reliance Industries CEO P.M.S. Prasad said India does not choose between energy access and innovation. “It is integrating both. By developing scalable, context-specific solutions, it is addressing local priorities while making a significant contribution to global sustainability. From rural microgrids to energy efficient data centers, India is turning its potential into a strategic asset,” Prasad said.

    He emphasized that international partnerships play a vital role in this ambitious effort. “Energy remains a key cornerstone of the strategic relationship between India and Russia. India values this trusted partnership and appreciates the cooperation forged over decades. The leadership of both countries is committed to take this partnership to an even higher bar in the future,” summarized Reliance Industries’ CEO.

    NUCLEAR POWER PLANTS ARE NOT BEING WRITTEN OFF

    Rosneft CEO Igor Sechin, in his keynote speech at the Energy Panel, noted the growing interest in nuclear power generation worldwide and, accordingly, the growth of investments in this area. According to him, this is happening against the backdrop of growing energy consumption and in future nuclear power will be in demand along with fossil sources and renewable energy sources.

    Reliance Industries CEO Panda Madhusudana Shiva Prasad, in turn, speaking on India’s energy outlook, emphasized the significant role of nuclear power generation.

    “Gas, renewables supported by energy storage systems and a robust transmission grid, and nuclear power will play a key role. India’s bold nuclear program, including small modular reactors, reflects its commitment to long-term energy security and decarbonization,” Prasad said.

    The renewed interest in investments in NPP construction was noted in the speech of Uzbek Minister of Energy Zhurabek Mirzamakhmudov. He spoke about joint plans with Russia to build two units of 55 megawatts each, and two units of VWR type reactors – water-water power reactor. The head of the ministry also said that gas-fired power plants are being installed in the country, hydropower is being developed, the share of renewable sources is increasing, and storage systems are being created at the same time.

    The Minister noted the substantial nature of Igor Sechin’s report, which contains a detailed analysis and reflects all trends in the development of global energy, science and economy.

    ENERGY SECURITY IN FIRST PLACE

    Delcy Rodriguez, Executive Vice President of the Republic of Venezuela, in her speech supported the thesis expressed by the head of Rosneft that energy security issues should come first.

    “We always advocate that the energy transition be carried out responsibly, taking into account reality, to avoid abrupt changes that could jeopardize energy security,” Rodriguez said.

    Venezuela’s Executive Vice President named the main components of a stable energy system of the future: energy security, reliable supply, accessibility for all, while respecting nature – with minimal environmental impact.

    Among the main threats to energy security, Rodriguez named illegal sanctions against producing countries and the hegemony of the dollar.

    Nobuo Tanaka, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the Japanese government’s non-profit Low Carbon Technology Initiative, said the answer to energy security is always to diversify supply sources, improve energy efficiency and seek alternative energy sources, including renewable energy, nuclear energy and regulate the market with predictable policies.

    AGAINST LOGIC

    The panelists drew attention to the political events of recent decades and stated that geopolitics is now shaping the direction of economic cooperation. And often against the logic of market expediency and economic efficiency.

    Tanaka recalled how he discussed Germany’s energy policy with Chancellor Merkel in 2009: “I asked her why Germany does not use nuclear power. She answered like this: Mr. Tanaka, I am a scientist, I know how important it is to use nuclear power, but in order to use it in Germany, she said, give me votes in exchange. Yes, she’s a good scientist, but she’s also a very smart politician.”

    The professor is sure that despite her experience Merkel made a very serious mistake by changing the policy on the use of nuclear power plants under the pressure of public opinion. Another mistake was the refusal to use Russian energy carriers and Russian natural gas. “I think she was misled,” Tanaka said.

    “Geopolitics is a factor of the 21st century global economy. It is geopolitical interests that brought the BRICS countries together.  The criterion for membership is not to use sanctions against other members of the organization. But geopolitics has also become a kind of “trap” for Germany after Trump’s victory,” said Alexander Dynkin, a member of the Russian Academy of Sciences.

    He noted that the European bureaucrats are concerned about the complete refusal of energy supplies from Russia by 2027. “They are not stopped by the growth of costs, undermining the competitiveness of the EU,” – said Dynkin and recalled that if in 2014, the U.S. GDP was ahead of the EU GDP. US GDP was only 12% ahead of EU GDP, last year the US economy was already 50% larger than the European one.

    “Although the German energy crisis is formally over, the country paid for it with three years of stagnation, deindustrialization, inflation, and migration crisis,” said the RAS academy member.

    DIGITAL REVOLUTION

    The thesis in Igor Sechin’s report that the digital revolution opens a new era in the development of the oil and gas industry was warmly echoed by the audience. In particular, David Gadzhimirzaev, General Director of TOFS Oilfield Services Group, thanked Rosneft for supporting innovation and technology development. He emphasized the importance of ensuring the availability, stability and reliability of resources, which is exactly what new technologies can provide, which will reduce the cost of bringing barrels to the surface.

    “We all know that just this year the Energy Strategy-2050 was approved, which includes the fact that by 2050 about 70% of the Russian Federation’s production will be from hard-to-recover reserves. Therefore, we are not only working on expertise, but also working on the production of new technologies,” Gadzhimirzaev said.

    Department of Information and Advertising
    Rosneft Oil Company
    June 21, 2025

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • Yoga’s global recognition a testament to its timeless relevance, says Om Birla

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Friday led the celebrations of the 11th International Day of Yoga at the Parliament complex, where a large number of Members of Parliament, former MPs, and employees from both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha Secretariats participated in the Common Yoga Protocol session.
     
    Addressing the gathering, Birla said that yoga is far more than a physical exercise—it is a profound way of life that enables harmony between the body, mind, and soul. “Yoga empowers individuals with strength, serenity, and spiritual energy,” he said, calling upon citizens to adopt yoga as a daily practice and to share their personal experiences of transformation. Such testimonies, he noted, can serve as an inspiration for others to discover the positive impact of yoga.
     
    Birla urged the youth, in particular, to embrace yoga to develop inner resilience, build self-confidence, and find clarity of purpose in an increasingly demanding world. “Yoga enhances not just our health, but also our ability to live with purpose and peace,” he said.
     
    Highlighting yoga’s growing global appeal, the Speaker noted that the International Day of Yoga is now marked by millions across continents. He said the scale of participation reflects the widespread recognition of yoga’s relevance in contemporary life, transcending cultural boundaries and national borders.
     
    Birla also underlined the scientific validation of yoga, observing that research conducted across the world has acknowledged its positive effects on both physical and mental health. “Yoga helps manage stress, improves focus, and contributes to a more balanced lifestyle,” he said. He emphasised that in today’s modern, high-pressure environment, yoga offers a constructive and peaceful means of channelling energy and building inner strength.
     
    Later in the day, the Lok Sabha Speaker led another yoga session organised by the Brahma Kumaris at the Red Fort premises. Commending the organisation for its role in promoting peace and well-being, Birla said that the Brahma Kumaris have made a lasting contribution to society through their teachings of Raj Yoga and Gyan Yoga.
     
    Referring to his recent visit to Brazil, he said the global influence of the Brahma Kumaris is evident in the way they have strengthened international connections and created a positive impact on diverse communities. “It is a matter of pride that an organisation rooted in Indian spiritual traditions is inspiring people around the world and guiding them toward meaningful inner transformation,” he added.

  • Yoga’s global recognition a testament to its timeless relevance, says Om Birla

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Friday led the celebrations of the 11th International Day of Yoga at the Parliament complex, where a large number of Members of Parliament, former MPs, and employees from both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha Secretariats participated in the Common Yoga Protocol session.
     
    Addressing the gathering, Birla said that yoga is far more than a physical exercise—it is a profound way of life that enables harmony between the body, mind, and soul. “Yoga empowers individuals with strength, serenity, and spiritual energy,” he said, calling upon citizens to adopt yoga as a daily practice and to share their personal experiences of transformation. Such testimonies, he noted, can serve as an inspiration for others to discover the positive impact of yoga.
     
    Birla urged the youth, in particular, to embrace yoga to develop inner resilience, build self-confidence, and find clarity of purpose in an increasingly demanding world. “Yoga enhances not just our health, but also our ability to live with purpose and peace,” he said.
     
    Highlighting yoga’s growing global appeal, the Speaker noted that the International Day of Yoga is now marked by millions across continents. He said the scale of participation reflects the widespread recognition of yoga’s relevance in contemporary life, transcending cultural boundaries and national borders.
     
    Birla also underlined the scientific validation of yoga, observing that research conducted across the world has acknowledged its positive effects on both physical and mental health. “Yoga helps manage stress, improves focus, and contributes to a more balanced lifestyle,” he said. He emphasised that in today’s modern, high-pressure environment, yoga offers a constructive and peaceful means of channelling energy and building inner strength.
     
    Later in the day, the Lok Sabha Speaker led another yoga session organised by the Brahma Kumaris at the Red Fort premises. Commending the organisation for its role in promoting peace and well-being, Birla said that the Brahma Kumaris have made a lasting contribution to society through their teachings of Raj Yoga and Gyan Yoga.
     
    Referring to his recent visit to Brazil, he said the global influence of the Brahma Kumaris is evident in the way they have strengthened international connections and created a positive impact on diverse communities. “It is a matter of pride that an organisation rooted in Indian spiritual traditions is inspiring people around the world and guiding them toward meaningful inner transformation,” he added.

  • MIL-OSI: BexBack Launches $50 Welcome Bonus and 100% Deposit Match to Empower Crypto Traders with 100x Leverage

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, June 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BexBack Exchange has launched an aggressive new promotion to empower both new and seasoned crypto traders: a $50 welcome bonus and a 100% deposit match for all new users. As the crypto market braces for another period of high volatility, BexBack is making futures trading more accessible and profitable than ever. With up to 100x leverage, zero KYC requirements, and support for over 50 digital assets, the platform provides an ideal environment for those seeking to capitalize on market swings without large upfront capital.

    Advantages of 100x Leverage Crypto Futures

    1. Amplified Profits: Control large positions with a small amount of capital, capturing more profits from market fluctuations.
    2. Low Capital Requirement: Participate in high-value trades with minimal investment, lowering the entry barrier.
    3. Increased Market Opportunities: Profit quickly from price fluctuations, especially in volatile markets.
    4. High Capital Efficiency: Leverage enables better use of your capital, expanding your investment potential.
    5. Profit from Both Up and Down Markets: Adapt to any market conditions, with opportunities to profit whether the market goes up or down.

    What Is 100x Leverage and How Does It Work?

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

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

    One day later, if the price rises to $105,000, your profit will be (105,000 – 100,000) * 100 BTC / 100,000 = 5 BTC, a yield of up to 500%.

    With BexBack’s deposit bonus

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

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

    How Does the 100% Deposit Bonus Work?
    The deposit bonus from BexBack cannot be directly withdrawn but can be used to open larger positions and increase potential profits. Additionally, during significant market fluctuations, the bonus can serve as extra margin, effectively reducing the risk of liquidation.

    About BexBack?

    BexBack is a leading cryptocurrency derivatives platform offering up to 100x leverage on futures contracts for BTC, ETH, ADA, SOL, XRP, and over 50 other digital assets. Headquartered in Singapore, the platform also operates offices in Hong Kong, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Argentina. Like many top-tier exchanges, BexBack holds a U.S. MSB (Money Services Business) license and is trusted by more than 500,000 traders worldwide. The platform accepts users from the United States, Canada, and Europe, with zero deposit fees and 24/7 multilingual customer support, delivering a secure, efficient, and user-friendly trading experience.

    Why recommend BexBack?

    No KYC Required: Start trading immediately without complex identity verification.

    100% Deposit Bonus: Double your funds, double your profits.

    High-Leverage Trading: Offers up to 100x leverage, maximizing investors’ capital efficiency.

    Demo Account: Comes with 10 BTC in virtual funds, ideal for beginners to practice risk-free trading.

    Comprehensive Trading Options: Feature-rich trading available via Web and mobile applications.

    Convenient Operation: No slippage, no spread, and fast, precise trade execution.

    Global User Support: Enjoy 24/7 customer service, no matter where you are.

    Lucrative Affiliate Rewards: Earn up to 50% commission, perfect for promoters.

    Take Action Now—Don’t Miss Another Opportunity!

    If you missed the previous crypto bull run, this could be your chance. With BexBack’s 100x leverage and 100% deposit bonus and $50 bonus for new users (complete one trade within one week of registration), you can be a winner in the new bull run.

    Sign Up Now on BexBack — Break the 100x Leverage and KYC Barriers, Get Double Deposit Bonus and $50 Welcome Bonus Instantly

    Website: www.bexback.com

    Contact: business@bexback.com

    Contact:
    Amanda
    business@bexback.com

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

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

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
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    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7a34b2c9-68fc-4cbe-85d2-107fc54d4930

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: TALLAHASSEE BROTHERS BOTH RECEIVE 10-YEARS IN PRISON IN LARGE-SCALE CONSPIRACY TO DISTRIBUTE MARIJUANA

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – United States Attorney John P. Heekin announces the last of four co-defendants was sentenced today in a large-scale conspiracy that distributed over 1000 kilograms of marijuana in Tallahassee. Tyquan Watson, 28, of Tallahassee, Florida, received 10 years in prison. His half-brother, Cleveland Blackshear, 26, of Tallahassee also received 10 years in prison. Dezaneil Cosby, 28, of Tallahassee received 5 years in prison. Shambresha Turner, 26, of Tallahassee received time-served and supervised release.

    U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “I applaud the substantial efforts of our state and federal law enforcement partners to investigate, arrest, and help bring these drug traffickers to justice. These offenses are not victimless crimes; the victims are the members of our community who experience the addiction and violence that too often follows from drug traffickers flooding our streets with this poison. My office will continue to aggressively pursue these cases to keep our communities healthy and safe.”

    Trial testimony and evidence demonstrated that Watson was purchasing hundred-pound quantities of marijuana per week from farms and brokers in California and reselling the marijuana in Tallahassee and surrounding areas. Evidence demonstrated that Watson had purchased at least 3169 pounds of marijuana between September 24, 2023, and January 10, 2024, with proceeds of at least $2.4 million during that period.

    “With dispensaries and smoke shops becoming more commonplace, people may falsely assume that marijuana is no big deal,” said Deanne L. Reuter, Special Agent in Charge of Drug Enforcement Administration’s Miami Field Division. “I assure you, DEA considers it a big deal. It’s stronger than ever and can pose a serious health risk, especially to children. We will continue to pursue marijuana peddlers with the same verve as any other illicit substance.”

    A long-term investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). On August 16, 2022, Shambresha Turner was stopped at the Panama City airport with 40 pounds of marijuana in her suitcases. Turner told officers that she was being paid to transport the suitcases. On October 13, 2022, FDLE conducted a controlled purchase of 28 pounds of marijuana from Cleveland Blackshear. During the surveillance, FDLE agents observed Blackshear obtaining the marijuana from Cosby’s residence immediately prior to the controlled purchase. Both Blackshear and Watson’s fingerprints were identified on packaging material associated with the purchased marijuana. Surveillance of Cosby’s residence between October 12, 2022, and October 28, 2022, revealed multiple people dropping off and picking up suitcases (at least 32 suitcases and 16 garbage bags). On October 28, 2022, DEA executed a federal search warrant at Cosby’s residence and seized 238 pounds of marijuana and a firearm. Watson and Cosby were arrested together on federal arrest warrants on March 11, 2024, at another residence in Tallahassee. During that arrest, law enforcement seized another 183 pounds of marijuana and a firearm.

    “This investigation sends a clear message: if you bring drug trafficking and violence into our communities, we’re coming for you,” said FDLE Tallahassee Special Agent in Charge Keith Wilmer. “Our special agents, working side-by-side with the DEA, spent countless hours on covert operations to take down this criminal network. I’m proud of their relentless work to protect Florida’s capital city and hold these offenders accountable.”

    Watson and Cosby were convicted at a jury trial on February 14, 2025. Blackshear and Turner had previously pled guilty. As part of his sentence, Watson was also ordered to forfeit $2,424,217 in drug proceeds.

    “This case is a clear example of how drug trafficking, even with substances like marijuana, is often linked to greater dangers in our community, including illegal firearms and violent crime,” said Chief Lawrence Revell of the Tallahassee Police Department. “We remain committed to working alongside our federal and state partners to disrupt these criminal networks and protect the safety of our neighborhoods.”

    These sentences were the result of a joint investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Tallahassee Police Department, and the Bay County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorneys James A. McCain and Harley Ferguson prosecuted the case.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: TALLAHASSEE BROTHERS BOTH RECEIVE 10-YEARS IN PRISON IN LARGE-SCALE CONSPIRACY TO DISTRIBUTE MARIJUANA

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – United States Attorney John P. Heekin announces the last of four co-defendants was sentenced today in a large-scale conspiracy that distributed over 1000 kilograms of marijuana in Tallahassee. Tyquan Watson, 28, of Tallahassee, Florida, received 10 years in prison. His half-brother, Cleveland Blackshear, 26, of Tallahassee also received 10 years in prison. Dezaneil Cosby, 28, of Tallahassee received 5 years in prison. Shambresha Turner, 26, of Tallahassee received time-served and supervised release.

    U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “I applaud the substantial efforts of our state and federal law enforcement partners to investigate, arrest, and help bring these drug traffickers to justice. These offenses are not victimless crimes; the victims are the members of our community who experience the addiction and violence that too often follows from drug traffickers flooding our streets with this poison. My office will continue to aggressively pursue these cases to keep our communities healthy and safe.”

    Trial testimony and evidence demonstrated that Watson was purchasing hundred-pound quantities of marijuana per week from farms and brokers in California and reselling the marijuana in Tallahassee and surrounding areas. Evidence demonstrated that Watson had purchased at least 3169 pounds of marijuana between September 24, 2023, and January 10, 2024, with proceeds of at least $2.4 million during that period.

    “With dispensaries and smoke shops becoming more commonplace, people may falsely assume that marijuana is no big deal,” said Deanne L. Reuter, Special Agent in Charge of Drug Enforcement Administration’s Miami Field Division. “I assure you, DEA considers it a big deal. It’s stronger than ever and can pose a serious health risk, especially to children. We will continue to pursue marijuana peddlers with the same verve as any other illicit substance.”

    A long-term investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). On August 16, 2022, Shambresha Turner was stopped at the Panama City airport with 40 pounds of marijuana in her suitcases. Turner told officers that she was being paid to transport the suitcases. On October 13, 2022, FDLE conducted a controlled purchase of 28 pounds of marijuana from Cleveland Blackshear. During the surveillance, FDLE agents observed Blackshear obtaining the marijuana from Cosby’s residence immediately prior to the controlled purchase. Both Blackshear and Watson’s fingerprints were identified on packaging material associated with the purchased marijuana. Surveillance of Cosby’s residence between October 12, 2022, and October 28, 2022, revealed multiple people dropping off and picking up suitcases (at least 32 suitcases and 16 garbage bags). On October 28, 2022, DEA executed a federal search warrant at Cosby’s residence and seized 238 pounds of marijuana and a firearm. Watson and Cosby were arrested together on federal arrest warrants on March 11, 2024, at another residence in Tallahassee. During that arrest, law enforcement seized another 183 pounds of marijuana and a firearm.

    “This investigation sends a clear message: if you bring drug trafficking and violence into our communities, we’re coming for you,” said FDLE Tallahassee Special Agent in Charge Keith Wilmer. “Our special agents, working side-by-side with the DEA, spent countless hours on covert operations to take down this criminal network. I’m proud of their relentless work to protect Florida’s capital city and hold these offenders accountable.”

    Watson and Cosby were convicted at a jury trial on February 14, 2025. Blackshear and Turner had previously pled guilty. As part of his sentence, Watson was also ordered to forfeit $2,424,217 in drug proceeds.

    “This case is a clear example of how drug trafficking, even with substances like marijuana, is often linked to greater dangers in our community, including illegal firearms and violent crime,” said Chief Lawrence Revell of the Tallahassee Police Department. “We remain committed to working alongside our federal and state partners to disrupt these criminal networks and protect the safety of our neighborhoods.”

    These sentences were the result of a joint investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Tallahassee Police Department, and the Bay County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorneys James A. McCain and Harley Ferguson prosecuted the case.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Hochul Appears on Dan Mannarino Show

    Source: US State of New York

    arlier today, Governor Kathy Hochul was a guest on PIX 11’s “PIX on Politics Daily with Dan Mannarino.”

    AUDIO: The Governor’s remarks are available in audio form here.

    A rush transcript of the Governor’s remarks is available below:

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11:  I spoke to Governor Kathy Hochul about that and many other topics in a wide ranging interview. The governor is going on the record. And, Governor Hochul is joining me now, great to have you here in person, Governor.

    Governor Hochul: Thanks. Great to be back, Dan.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: It’s been a busy week and I want to begin what we saw play out on Tuesday, a city comptroller, Brad Lander, a mayoral candidate, arrested, and he was there escorting this man Edgardo out of his court date trying to get this legal status. When you went down there, what was your encounter with both the ICE officials and Mr. Lander?

    Governor Hochul: I went down there, literally had been in Little Haiti, visiting the community, a community that’s under siege. I got the word of what happened and I just declared it as unacceptable in a different word, but I said it was very unacceptable. I went down there, and I went into the federal building, went up to the ninth floor, and they were holding him in this area behind a number of guards. I mean there was ICE agents there, and no one else was around. I just said, “I’m not leaving until Mr. Lander walks out with me.”

    And I stood there, and I talked to people, and I brought in my Homeland Security team and others to be reinforcements and to find out what’s going on. Eventually, they went and told him and he said he overheard them saying “the Governor’s here, we’ll let you go.” So I walked out with him, we went down to the street.

    He was reacquainted with his wife, Meg, who I had seen on the street and gave her a hug because you don’t know what’s happening. Are they going to press some, made up, trumped up charges, literally trumped up charges or what, but they ended up saying yesterday there were no charges being brought. It’s just to see someone like a Brad Lander, I mean, he knows he’s got attention on his case.

    He’s got a Governor coming down there. He’s got all the resources he needs, attorneys, and it just puts a spotlight on all the people who are not an elected official.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: For example, Edgardo.

    Governor Hochul: Yes.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: Where is he?

    Governor Hochul: We don’t know, I mean, we don’t know and here’s what I called out. It’s so cruel. People are sitting ducks. They came here with legal status, temporary protected status seeking asylum. They came here during the Biden administration. You can agree or disagree with that policy, but they’re here and they’re following the rules. They’re showing up to a court date that they’re told to come for, go before a judge, and while they’re in there their status is revoked. They walk out, and they’re told they’re criminals now, and ICE just grabs them.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: So let me ask you this, is there anything that you or the state can do in a moment like this to protect those who are simply following the law? They get a court date, they show up. The city’s guidance from Mayor Adams has been, go to your court cases, go to school, go to hospitals, and if anybody shows up from ICE, ask for a warrant, which is what Mr. Lander did, and now they’re saying that he didn’t see the warrant.

    Governor Hochul: That’s right, that’s exactly right. They’re not even following the rules that are in play here, but we’ve provided legal services and funding, fifty million dollars. I increased it significantly in our budget knowing that this was happening. We have great coalitions, the Immigration Coalition and others that are stepping up and getting the money out to people, training people on what to do–but this is an unprecedented time in American history. It truly, truly is.

    When people who are following the rules, following the laws, taking care of people as home healthcare aides. 160 Haitians losing their jobs because who’s going to take care of the moms and dads and the grandma and grandpas who need this care. So they’re not even looking at the impact of the loss of these people who are workers.

    The loss to our tax base, the loss to our community, and so I will help every day of the week with criminals. I said that during eight hours of grueling hearing testimony in Congress, which was just a farce to even have to drag governors like myself down there, but we did it, we endured it, put up with a lot of crap.

    But we said we do help with law enforcement when we want to remove criminals, people that are dangerous, and this is not what they’re doing. They are removing law abiding people who literally walk on their own into a courthouse.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: Let me ask you about that testimony, right you brought it up, you were there for hours and you were grilled by both Democrats and Republicans. I guess the question is have you spoken to President Trump about what you’re talking about going after the worst of the worst. You were pressed on sanctuary city status, but the President had campaigned on going after the worst of the worst. What have those conversations been?

    Governor Hochul: No, I had them with him before and I was actually going to reach out again, but he has been distracted with the situation in the Middle East, and so I waited, but I will have that conversation again. I had it in the Oval Office. I had Kristi Noem sitting next to me when I had this conversation. I said, “we, as part of our policies, we’ll help you go after the criminals.” The ones not a crime of crossing the border. That’s not what we’re talking about. That can be enforced civilly.

    You do your civil enforcement, that’s not our job. I will help you if you’ve got evidence that someone’s a member of a gang or human trafficking or running drugs or guns. We don’t want them in our streets either. I’ve worked really hard for the last four years to make our streets safer, and we’re seeing the results. So I’m here for that, but why are we being asked to divert our resources to help you do your job, which I don’t even agree with.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: And speaking of resources, we’re seeing what’s going to play out in Los Angeles and California right now with the National Guard being brought in because of these issues of protesters are on the street right, and Mayor Adam said that he sent his deputy mayor and his chief of police, chief of department to meet with President Trump, play golf and persuade him not to send the National Guard here. The Mayor says he spoke to you about that. Were you okay with them meeting on a golf course to talk about this?

    Governor Hochul: That’s how they do their business. I’m not going to question it, that’s not my decision, but I’m having the same conversations. I want them to know, first of all, I’m the commander in chief of the New York State National Guard, I am, and there are only extreme cases when the President can usurp that.

    Those cases were not called for in Los Angeles. What I’m saying is I believe in our law enforcement, I support them. Our NYPD is 32,000 people strong. They’re some of the best trained in the world, they can handle crowds. So you’re basically saying, the Trump administration is saying, “We don’t trust you law enforcement to do your jobs, so we’re going to kind of bigfoot you and show our force.” It’s unnecessary.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: But can you stop it?

    Governor Hochul: I will not be cooperating in that effort. But I will demonstrate that first of all, we can peacefully assemble. That happened, with millions of people, last weekend. Let’s put a spotlight on that and what we don’t want, is to be baited into what Donald Trump wants. He wants nothing more than to see more police cars burning and turned upside down and violence in the streets.

    Now, the concentration in Los Angeles was a smaller area. It was exaggerated. Most of the city was just fine, but he wants that in Chicago and New York. He basically said that. So we are ready for it, but no one should take the bait. Don’t take the bait and give him what he wants.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: This is all playing out during a political season here in New York with the mayor’s race, and they’re all using this as part of their campaigns. Now, we just had a poll come out from Marist that shows Andrew Cuomo is upping the polls here. You served as his Lieutenant Governor and you’d potentially have to work with him as mayor. When’s the last time you spoke to Mr. Cuomo?

    Governor Hochul: A few months. But I’ll tell you this, the voters will decide. I have such respect for the voters of New York City, that I will work with whomever they want me to, and if it’s mutual, if the next mayor. Or the current mayor — whoever it is — wants to work with me and is willing to, they will see the benefits of what I showed Mayor Adams for four years and changing the whole dynamic between the conflict that was always there between Albany and New York City. It doesn’t have to be that way.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: One of them is Zohran Mamdani — who says that he would need to work with Albany — and you — very closely, and his whole campaign is based on raising taxes, which he says that he can get you to be on board with. Would you be on board with that?

    Governor Hochul: No, I’m not raising taxes on people at a time when affordability is the big issue. I’m actually cutting middle class taxes.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: Even on the wealthy?

    Governor Hochul: I don’t want to lose any more people to go to Palm Beach. We’ve lost enough. We had a major out-migration when Republicans in Congress eliminated the state local tax deduction.

    New Yorkers paid $72 billion more to the federal government over the last seven years because Republicans didn’t stand up and they need a full restoration of this. So that was a driver. I don’t want to give anyone else who’s supporting our economy and their taxes are appreciated and their support for the philanthropies, etcetera. Driving them to Florida does not help us. So let’s be smart about this.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: I want to talk about the other race, and that’s the race for governor. Lieutenant Governor, your lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado, has announced he’s running against you. What does that mean? Is he tasked with anything right now by you as he now looks to take your job?

    Governor Hochul: No, he decided to go in a different direction. But I’m not focused on that at all. I really —

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: But he’s your Lieutenant Governor, so you don’t give him any responsibilities?

    Governor Hochul: No, he’s determined to take another course. So he’s basically — he collects his paycheck.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: Should he stand down?

    Governor Hochul: A lot of people have said that. I will tell you — I will focus on campaigning when the time comes. I’m very competitive. It’s my 16th election. I know how to win, and I will win. But right now, with so much going on, I have to focus on Washington. I have to focus on this big ugly bill, which is going to eviscerate health care institutions everywhere I’ve been visiting.

    We just did a billion dollars to help SUNY Downstate in Brooklyn, giving central Brooklyn the high quality health care they deserve. And what’s happening at the same time we’re doing this, the federal government stands to take $13.5 billion from our health care systems. I’ve got that fight. I’ve got a fight on tariffs, which are hurting our state tremendously, especially in the North Country and also what’s happening with immigration. So I’m very busy doing my job.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: You’re saying others are calling for him to step down, but you don’t think — you’re not saying it.

    Governor Hochul: I’m not — I don’t really care.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: I want to talk about the big issue right now in terms of the budget, right? Because it is budget season and there’s so much to talk about. But I do want to talk about local issues and what it affects New Yorkers. And come next year, $13.5 million to enact a cell phone ban in schools. And my curiosity is how do you implement that, right? Because on paper, yes, you can say everyone’s — but it’s up to the individual schools to follow through. So how do you make it happen?

    Governor Hochul: Oh, we are aggressively working on this to educate all the school districts, educate the parents. Law enforcement plays a role in this too, because they need to persuade the parents that the most dangerous thing, if there is an incident on the school grounds, a shooting, for example, that it’s not safe for their kids to be reaching for their cell phone and videoing it.

    So I’m really excited about this when I go around the city, more people have raised this is something they’re really happy we did. We’re the largest state in America to have a full ban morning until nighttime. Your little girl will grow up in a world where she never even knew you could have a cell phone.

    And she’ll be smarter and more — have better mental health outcomes because our kids today are under such stress. And as a mom, I’m making sure we’re doing everything we can. This is going to be a game changer.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: Yeah. But if a school says, “I don’t want to do it.”

    Governor Hochul: No, they have to do it.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: They have to do it.

    Governor Hochul: It’s the law. This is why it took me a year to get this done. There’s a lot of opposition. And I said, “We need this done.” Every school has to comply with this. Make sure that parents know how to reach their kids during the day. Just like we did in the old days. We used to call the office and you have to have the phone away from the kids, not in their pockets.

    Don’t let them store it where they want. You have to have your own policy. I’m not going to dictate that. But from morning until school day ends, even during lunch and breaks, gym class because they need to start making friends again. They need to be kids again. We’re giving them their childhood back.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: Can we bring back snow days?

    Governor Hochul: I’m from Buffalo. Don’t tell me about that — we went to school during so many blizzards. They thought it was a sign of weakness if you took a snow day. No, we always went to school during blizzards.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: Governor Kathy Hochul, I always appreciate you coming in. Good to see you.

    Governor Hochul: Good to see you too, Dan.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canada partners with First Nations, Inuit and Métis on 3 new Indigenous-led climate projects in developing countries

    Source: Government of Canada News

    June 21, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

    Indigenous Peoples have a strong connection to the natural world, and their leadership is key in tackling climate change. That is why Canada is committed to working in true partnership with Indigenous Peoples for inclusive and collaborative climate action by supporting Indigenous-led projects and Indigenous leadership on climate resilience here at home and in the most vulnerable regions of the world.

    Today, on National Indigenous Peoples Day, the Honourable Randeep Sarai, Secretary of State (International Development), in collaboration with Indigenous partners, announced $5.1 million in federal funding over 2 years to support 3 new Indigenous-led initiatives that will help build climate resilience and support climate action by Indigenous Peoples in South America, Africa and the Indo-Pacific region. These initiatives will be designed and implemented in partnership with First Nations, Inuit and Métis in Canada and Indigenous Peoples abroad.

    The new projects are as follows:

    Our Collective Futures: Indigenous Peoples Partnering for Lands and Waters: The Assembly of First Nations will partner with Indigenous Peoples in the Indo-Pacific to strengthen climate resilience centering on the needs of Indigenous Peoples and their self-determined priorities for climate and biodiversity action. This will be done through knowledge-sharing and capacity-building to develop and implement climate solutions and will increase access to these solutions for Indigenous Peoples, in particular women and youths, who are disproportionately affected by climate change. This project builds on local efforts led by the Asia Indigenous Peoples Pact.

    The Indigenous Climate Action Partnership: The Inuit Circumpolar Council (Canada) will aim to increase the climate resilience of Indigenous Peoples in developing countries by fostering partnerships, shared learning and mutual support in climate adaptation work and advocacy skills. The project will highlight Indigenous-led nature-based solutions through learning experiences on the land and connect Indigenous leaders around the world.

    A World of Wahkohtowin: The Métis National Council will collaborate with Indigenous Peoples in Colombia and Zambia to co-create culturally relevant climate adaptation strategies that are deeply connected to the identities of the Nations and Peoples involved.  Rooted in the value of wahkohtowin— a Cree word meaning kinship and interconnectedness—this work emphasizes the importance of building respectful, reciprocal relationships across Nations. The initiative aims to reduce poverty by safeguarding the livelihoods and resources that Indigenous communities depend on while also supporting gender equality and on-site learning.

    This announcement is being made during Canada’s National Indigenous History Month, a time to recognize and honour the rich histories, cultures and contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis, as well as deepen our understanding of Indigenous Peoples in Canada and around the world.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Global energy balance: heads of major energy companies and experts at SPIEF discussed the future of energy

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    At the Energy Panel of the XXVIII St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, leading industry experts, politicians, scientists, government officials and heads of major international energy companies discussed current trends in the global energy market.

    Their assessments and forecasts largely coincided with the visionary concept of the industry development presented by Rosneft CEO Igor Sechin. In his report “The Odyssey of the World Economy in Search of the Golden Fleece. The New Image of World Energy,” he announced that the current state of world energy is at the stage of forming a new image, caused by the multiple growth of electricity consumption, the generation of which will be provided by both fossil fuels and renewable energy sources. According to him, the optimal solution today is “the synthesis of traditional and alternative energy sources.”

    The event, organized with the support of PJSC NK Rosneft, was attended by Chairman of the Board of Directors of Rosneft Mohammed Bin Saleh Al-Sada, Executive Vice President of the Republic of Venezuela Delcy Rodriguez, Chief Executive Officer of Pertamina Simon Aloysius Mantiri, Vice President of CNPC Zhang Daowei, Executive Director of Reliance Industries Panda Madhusudana Shiva Prasad, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Alexander Dynkin, Minister of Energy of the Republic of Uzbekistan Jurabek Mirzamakhmudov, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the non-profit initiative of the Japanese government for the development of low-carbon technologies Nobuo Tanaka, as well as President of TOFS Group David Gadzhimirzaev.

    ENERGY TRANSITION WITHOUT TRANSITION

    Mohammed Bin Saleh Al-Sada opened the discussion of Igor Sechin’s report, noting the depth of his analysis. “It was comprehensive – the way you showed that progress and energy are inseparable,” Al-Sada addressed Sechin.

    The head of the board of directors of Rosneft drew the audience’s attention to the fact that, despite the active promotion of the idea of switching to renewable energy sources, the share of fossil energy sources in the energy balance has not changed in recent decades. He recalled that Igor Sechin mentioned in his report that fossil fuels account for 80% of the world’s energy balance. “And these statistics have not changed in the last 20 years! We flutter around these 80% of fossil fuels and energy sources, and, therefore, little has changed!” exclaimed Al-Sada, describing the situation in the global energy sector.

    “In other words, we are essentially not making any transition away from hydrocarbons,” he concluded, emphasizing that the transition to renewable energy sources is being imposed on the industry and the public.

    “I would also like to take the baton from Mr. Sechin and pass on my comment to you. This is food for thought: are we really moving from fossil fuels to renewables?” Al-Sada addressed the audience.

    The Chairman of the Board of Directors of Rosneft also noted that the demand for energy for various reasons does not always coincide with the growth of production. “I would like to express two small thoughts in order to further color the valuable things that we heard in the words of Mr. Sechin. The lack of investment is already a reality in the hydrocarbon and energy sectors. This is what can really lead us to a serious shortage of energy. “If this trend continues, we may face a shortage of energy resources. This is not only my personal opinion, but also what a large number of analysts say, including the International Energy Agency and other respected experts, who in their reviews emphasize the importance of having sufficient investment in the hydrocarbon sector. Otherwise, we will face the risk of a shortage of primary energy!” Al-Sada emphasized.

    THE FUTURE IS SYNERGY

    Vice President of China’s CNPC Zhang Daowei noted that he listened with interest to the report of Rosneft’s Chief Executive Officer. In his speech, the top manager of the Chinese company expressed similar assessments of the development paths of the global energy sector – in particular, the need for synergy between traditional and new energy sources.

    “We have always believed that in the context of the energy transition course, it is necessary to adhere to the synergetic, comprehensive development of traditional and new energy sources, fully take into account the characteristics and level of development of our countries’ markets, properly link the energy transition with energy security, and promote a fair and sustainable model of energy transformation,” Daowei noted.

    According to the vice president, within the framework of this philosophy, CNPC, on the one hand, continues to increase the exploration and development of oil and gas fields at home and import high-quality resources from abroad, including strengthening long-term cooperation with Russia in the field of hydrocarbon trade. On the other hand, CNPC actively adheres to the strategy of “green”, low-carbon development and implements the development of the “three-step strategy” combining oil and gas projects using wind, solar, geothermal, hydrogen and carbon capture technologies.

    Indonesia’s Pertamina President and CEO Simon Aloysius Mantiri said the company is pursuing a dual growth strategy that relies on both traditional resources and low-carbon solutions, with natural gas playing a major role in the country’s energy mix.

    “Natural gas is at the center of our strategy to transition to cleaner fuels. And today we are expanding our capacity and ability to produce LNG for both domestic and export needs,” he said.

    The head of Pertamina essentially repeated the thesis voiced in Igor Sechin’s report, and particularly emphasized that by achieving a balance of energy sources and a comprehensive approach, the company is capable of ensuring high rates of economic growth and, at the same time, carbon neutrality.

    Reliance Industries CEO PMS Prasad said India does not choose between energy access and innovation. “It integrates both. By developing scalable, context-specific solutions, it addresses local priorities while making a significant contribution to global sustainability. From rural microgrids to energy-efficient data centres, India is turning its potential into a strategic asset,” Prasad said.

    He stressed that international partnerships play a vital role in this ambitious endeavour. “Energy remains a key cornerstone of the strategic relationship between India and Russia. India values this trusting partnership and appreciates the cooperation built over decades. The leadership of both countries is committed to taking this partnership to even higher levels in the future,” the Reliance Industries CEO concluded.

    NUCLEAR POWER PLANTS ARE NOT WRITTEN OFF THE ACCOUNTS

    Rosneft CEO Igor Sechin noted in his keynote speech at the Energy Panel the growing interest in nuclear power generation worldwide and, accordingly, the growth of investments in this area. According to him, this is happening against the backdrop of growing energy consumption and in the future nuclear energy will be in demand along with fossil fuels and renewable energy sources.

    Reliance Industries CEO Panda Madhusudana Shiva Prasad, speaking in turn about the prospects for the development of India’s energy sector, particularly emphasized the significant role of nuclear power generation.

    “Gas, renewables supported by energy storage systems and a robust transmission grid, and nuclear power will play a key role. India’s ambitious nuclear programme, including small modular reactors, reflects its commitment to long-term energy security and decarbonisation,” Prasad said.

    The revival of interest in investment in the construction of nuclear power plants was noted in the speech of the Minister of Energy of Uzbekistan Jurabek Mirzamakhmudov. He spoke about joint plans with Russia to build two units of 55 megawatts each, and two units of VVR-type reactors – water-cooled power reactors. The head of the ministry also reported that the country is installing power plants where gas is burned, hydropower is developing, the share of renewable sources is increasing, and storage systems are being created at the same time.

    The Minister noted the content of Igor Sechin’s report, which provided a detailed analysis and reflected all the development trends in global energy, science and economics.

    ENERGY SECURITY FIRST

    In her speech, the Executive Vice President of the Republic of Venezuela, Delcy Rodriguez, supported the thesis expressed by the head of Rosneft that issues of ensuring energy security should be a top priority.

    “We always advocate that the energy transition be carried out responsibly, taking into account reality, in order to avoid abrupt changes that could threaten energy security,” Rodriguez said.

    The Executive Vice President of Venezuela named the main components of a stable energy system of the future: energy security, reliable supplies, accessibility for all, and at the same time respect for nature – with minimal impact on the environment.

    Among the main threats to energy security, Rodriguez named illegal sanctions against producing countries and the hegemony of the dollar.

    Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the Japanese government’s non-profit initiative to develop low-carbon technologies Nobuo Tanaka, in turn, noted that the answer to energy security issues is always associated with diversification of supply sources, increasing energy efficiency and searching for alternative energy sources, including renewable energy sources, nuclear energy and regulating the market through predictable policies.

    CONTRARY TO LOGIC

    The participants in the discussion drew attention to the political events of the last decades and stated that today geopolitics shapes the directions of economic cooperation. Moreover, often contrary to the logic of market expediency and economic efficiency.

    Tanaka recalled in this regard how he discussed Germany’s energy policy with Chancellor Merkel in 2009: “I asked her why Germany does not use nuclear energy. She answered like this: Mr. Tanaka, I am a scientist, I know how important it is to use nuclear energy, but in order to use it in Germany, she said, give me the votes of the voters in exchange for it. Yes, she is a good scientist, but she is also a very smart politician.”

    The professor is sure that despite her experience, Merkel made a very serious mistake by changing her policy on the use of nuclear power plants under pressure from public opinion. Another mistake was the refusal to use Russian energy resources and Russian natural gas. “I think she was misled,” Tanaka said.

    “Geopolitics is a factor in the global economy of the 21st century. It is geopolitical interests that united the BRICS countries. The criterion for membership is not the application of sanctions against other members of the organization. But geopolitics has also become a kind of “trap” for Germany after Trump’s victory,” says academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Alexander Dynkin.

    He noted that Eurocrats are concerned about the complete rejection of energy supplies from Russia by 2027. “They are not stopped by the growth of costs, which undermines the competitiveness of the EU,” Dynkin noted and recalled that if in 2014 the US GDP was ahead of the EU GDP by only 12%, then last year the American economy was already 50% larger than the European one.

    “Although the German energy crisis is formally over, the country paid for it with three years of stagnation, deindustrialization, inflation, and a migration crisis,” said the member of the Russian Academy of Sciences.

    DIGITAL REVOLUTION

    The thesis voiced in Igor Sechin’s report that the digital revolution is opening a new era in the development of the oil and gas industry received a warm response from the audience. In particular, David Gadzhimirzaev, CEO of the oilfield services company TOFS, thanked Rosneft for supporting innovation and developing technologies. He emphasized the importance of ensuring the availability, stability and reliability of resources, which can be provided by new technologies that will reduce the cost of lifting barrels to the surface.

    “We all know that literally this year the energy strategy-2050 was approved, which includes the fact that by 2050 about 70% of the Russian Federation’s production will be from hard-to-recover reserves. Therefore, we, in turn, are not only working on the expertise, but also working on the production of new technologies,” Gadzhimirzaev said.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft June 21, 2025

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Bayern, Flamengo reach Club World Cup last 16

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

    Bayern Munich and Flamengo booked their places in the last 16 of the FIFA Club World Cup on Friday with wins over Boca Juniors and Chelsea, while Benfica boosted its hopes of advancing after routing Auckland City.

    Esperance also kept alive its knockout-stage chances by edging past Los Angeles FC, which joined Auckland in exiting the tournament.

    In Philadelphia, Brazil’s Flamengo moved three points clear at the top of Group D after recovering from a goal down to overcome Chelsea 3-1.

    Portuguese winger Pedro Neto put Chelsea ahead when he capitalized on Wesley Franca’s miscued clearance to dribble almost half the length of the pitch before calmly shooting past Argentine goalkeeper Agustin Rossi.

    Flamengo equalized just after the hour through Bruno Henrique, who tapped home after Gonzalo Plata flicked on Gerson’s cross.

    The Rio de Janeiro outfit suddenly had the momentum, and Henrique turned provider three minutes later as his header set up Danilo to volley home at the far post.

    Chelsea was reduced to 10 men in the 68th minute after Nicolas Jackson was shown a straight red card for a studs-up challenge on Lucas Ayrton.

    Wallace Yan put the result beyond doubt by playing a slick one-two with Plata before firing in from the edge of the six-yard box.

    “We always believed that we had a chance,” Flamengo manager Filipe Luis said afterwards. “I’m very proud because after our mistake in giving away the first goal, we didn’t drop our heads. We continued to play the same way. We gave our all until the end and that warms my heart.”

    In Orlando, Angel Di Maria and Leandro Barreiro scored twice apiece as Benfica romped to a 6-0 victory over Auckland City.

    Benfica initially struggled to breach the New Zealand club’s five-man defense but Di Maria broke the deadlock from the penalty spot just before halftime.

    It was all one-way traffic thereafter, despite a two-hour delay due to a storm alert. Vangelis Pavlidis, Renato Sanches, Barreiro and Di Maria were all on target in the second half as Benfica registered its first win of the tournament.

    The Portuguese side is now second in Group C with four points while Auckland City is last with 16 goals conceded in two matches.

    “This is the longest game of my career,” Benfica head coach Bruno Lage said. “A special thanks to our fans, who have been here for five hours supporting the team. We played as well as we could. The [hot] temperature made it very difficult.”

    In Nashville, Tunisia’s Esperance kept alive its hopes of reaching the next stage with a 1-0 victory over Los Angeles FC.

    Youcef Belaili handed his side the lead in the 70th minute when he pounced on a loose ball in the area and drilled a low shot that deflected in off the left leg of goalkeeper Hugo Lloris.

    Esperance is now third in Group D and will need to beat Chelsea in Philadelphia on Tuesday to progress to the knockout phase. Los Angeles FC is fourth, having failed to pick up a point so far and with no chance of progressing.

    In Miami, France international midfielder Michael Olise scored late as Bayern Munich kept its perfect record intact with a 2-1 win over Argentine side Boca Juniors.

    Harry Kane opened the scoring for the Bundesliga champions when he intercepted a defensive clearance and fired low into the far corner with his weaker left foot.

    Uruguayan forward Miguel Merentiel equalized by running onto Alan Velasco’s through ball and ghosting past Josip Stanisic before clinically finishing past Manuel Neuer.

    Olise restored Bayern’s lead six minutes from time with a fizzing drive from distance after Kane’s clever layoff.

    While the German club is assured of a place in the next round, Boca will need to defeat Auckland City by a hefty margin on Tuesday to have any chance of advancing.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Sechin named Russia, Venezuela and Iran key players in ensuring global energy security

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Russia, Venezuela and Iran are key players in the energy market, on whose supplies global energy security depends, said Rosneft Chief Executive Officer Igor Sechin at the Energy Panel at the XXVIII St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.

    “Russia, Venezuela and Iran are key players in the energy market, on whose supplies global energy security directly depends. They account for a third of the world’s liquid hydrocarbon reserves and 15% of global production. Without their resource base, the transition to a new image of global energy is impossible,” the head of the Company said.

    At the same time, according to Sechin, Russia’s real contribution to the global economy is proportional to its share in the global resource balance.

    “Our country’s share in global hydrocarbon exports is about 15%. However, the Russian resource base is not only hydrocarbons, but also metals. Russia’s share in gold mining is about 10%, and in the production of metals such as high-grade nickel and palladium, it reaches 20% and 40%, respectively,” the CEO said.

    The head of Rosneft also noted that Russia contains about 10% of the world’s reserves of rare earth metals, without which the development of modern technologies is impossible.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft June 21, 2025

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Igor Sechin opened the Energy Panel at the SPIEF

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Chief Executive Officer of PJSC NK Rosneft Igor Sechin presented the key report “Odyssey of the World Economy in Search of the Golden Fleece. New Image of World Energy” at the Energy Panel within the framework of the XXVIII St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.

    The event is attended by Chairman of the Board of Directors of Rosneft Mohammed Bin Saleh Al-Sada, Executive Vice President of the Republic of Venezuela Delcy Rodriguez, Vice President of CNPC Zhang Daowei, Executive Director of Reliance Industries Panda Madhusudana Shiva Prasad, CEO of Pertamina Simon Aloysius Mantiri, President of Schlumberger in Asia Sherif Shohdi, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Alexander Dynkin, Minister of Energy of the Republic of Uzbekistan Jurabek Mirzamakhmudov, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the non-profit initiative of the Japanese government for the development of low-carbon technologies Nobuo Tanaka, President of TOFS Group David Gadzhimirzaev, as well as representatives of government bodies, major Russian and foreign companies in various industries, scientists, academics, experts and analysts.

    The Energy Panel was moderated by the famous American journalist and RT TV channel host Rick Sanchez.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft June 21, 2025

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Muniain leaves San Lorenzo, hints at retirement

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

    Former Spain international midfielder Iker Muniain raised the prospect of retirement on Friday after parting ways with Argentine club San Lorenzo.

    The 32-year-old had been tied to the Buenos Aires club until December but exercised an option to terminate the contract early, citing personal reasons.

    “I’m here to announce that I’m leaving San Lorenzo but a little piece of me will stay here forever,” Muniain told a news conference in Buenos Aires, adding that he would need time to think about his future.

    “This is the first time I’ve considered quitting playing. There is a good chance that this will happen, and I’ll be giving it some more thought.”

    Muniain made 26 appearances across all competitions for San Lorenzo, scoring four goals and providing one assist, after joining the club on a free transfer from Athletic Bilbao last September.

    His time in Argentina coincided with an institutional crisis at San Lorenzo, including a corruption scandal engulfing the club’s president, Marcelo Moretti, and financial troubles that delayed player salary payments.

    Muniain did not indicate whether the off-field turmoil influenced his decision but insisted he would recall his time at the club fondly.

    “I’ve been able to experience nine or 10 truly wonderful months despite all the circumstances and problems that have arisen at times,” said Muniain, who has two Spain caps. “It’s been very special, it’s been very beautiful. It has been worthwhile and the memories will last a lifetime.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • Neeraj Chopra triumphs at Paris Diamond League

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Double Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra delivered a commanding performance at the Paris Diamond League, claiming top spot with a powerful 88.16m throw on his very first attempt at Stade Charléty on Saturday.

    His opening throw set the benchmark for the evening and remained unmatched throughout the competition. Despite recording three fouls in his six attempts, the early effort was enough to keep him in the lead in a highly competitive field.

    Germany’s Julian Weber, a former Diamond League champion and one of Chopra’s fiercest rivals, came closest with a strong 87.88m effort, also in the first round. Despite a consistent series, Weber was unable to surpass Chopra’s mark and finished second.

    Brazil’s Luiz Maurício da Silva delivered a career-best 86.62m throw in the third round, placing third and setting a new South American record in the process.

    This was Chopra’s first appearance at the Paris Diamond League since 2017, when he finished fifth with a throw of 84.67m as a junior world champion. The Paris meet marked the eighth stop on the 2025 Diamond League circuit, which will culminate in a two-day final in Zurich this August.

    Chopra began his 2025 campaign with a win at the Potch Invitational in South Africa, throwing 84.52m. He made headlines in Doha by breaching the elusive 90m barrier for the first time, setting a new Indian national record with a 90.23m effort—though he was narrowly edged by Weber’s personal best of 91.06m.

    The rivalry continued at Poland’s Janusz Kusociński Memorial, where Weber again finished ahead with 86.12m to Chopra’s 84.14m in wet, tricky conditions.

    In Paris, however, Chopra reclaimed the lead—and reminded the world why he remains one of the sport’s most formidable athletes.

    IANS

  • Neeraj Chopra triumphs at Paris Diamond League

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Double Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra delivered a commanding performance at the Paris Diamond League, claiming top spot with a powerful 88.16m throw on his very first attempt at Stade Charléty on Saturday.

    His opening throw set the benchmark for the evening and remained unmatched throughout the competition. Despite recording three fouls in his six attempts, the early effort was enough to keep him in the lead in a highly competitive field.

    Germany’s Julian Weber, a former Diamond League champion and one of Chopra’s fiercest rivals, came closest with a strong 87.88m effort, also in the first round. Despite a consistent series, Weber was unable to surpass Chopra’s mark and finished second.

    Brazil’s Luiz Maurício da Silva delivered a career-best 86.62m throw in the third round, placing third and setting a new South American record in the process.

    This was Chopra’s first appearance at the Paris Diamond League since 2017, when he finished fifth with a throw of 84.67m as a junior world champion. The Paris meet marked the eighth stop on the 2025 Diamond League circuit, which will culminate in a two-day final in Zurich this August.

    Chopra began his 2025 campaign with a win at the Potch Invitational in South Africa, throwing 84.52m. He made headlines in Doha by breaching the elusive 90m barrier for the first time, setting a new Indian national record with a 90.23m effort—though he was narrowly edged by Weber’s personal best of 91.06m.

    The rivalry continued at Poland’s Janusz Kusociński Memorial, where Weber again finished ahead with 86.12m to Chopra’s 84.14m in wet, tricky conditions.

    In Paris, however, Chopra reclaimed the lead—and reminded the world why he remains one of the sport’s most formidable athletes.

    IANS

  • MIL-OSI Security: ICE Arrests Criminal Illegal Alien Tren de Aragua Gang Member for Attempting to Murder an ICE Officer

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    This criminal illegal alien faces federal charges including attempted murder of a federal officer and assault of a federal officer with infliction of bodily injury

    WASHINGTON – Today, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the arrest of Gabriel Hurtado-Cariaco, a criminal illegal alien and Tren de Aragua gang member who violently attacked a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) special agent and an FBI special agent.  

    “This Venezuelan national is a criminal illegal alien and Tren de Aragua gang member who violently attacked an ICE and FBI agent and has been charged with attempted murder,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident. Our ICE agents are facing a 500% increase surge in assaults against them. Our brave law enforcement puts their lives on the line every day to arrest terrorists, gang members, and other violent criminals that the previous administration released into American communities. Secretary Noem has been clear: anyone who assaults an ICE law enforcement officer will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”  

    On June 18, ICE Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Omaha led an operation to arrest Gabriel Hurtado-Cariaco, a known Tren de Aragua terrorist, in Bellevue, Nebraska. As ICE and their law enforcement partners attempted to take him into custody, Hurtado-Cariaco launched a brutal and premeditated assault on an ICE HSI special agent.  

    During the attack, the illegal alien threw the ICE agent to the ground, slammed her head into the pavement, ripped off her body armor, and made repeated and physical violent contact. The agent sustained serious injuries to her head and arm and was immediately transported to the University of Nebraska Medical Center for treatment. The agent has since been released from the hospital and is recovering at home. Hurtado-Cariaco also assaulted an FBI agent during the incident.  

    Following the attack, Hurtado-Cariaco fled the scene but was apprehended approximately an hour later in the immediate area by ICE and coordinated law enforcement teams. 

    The Department of Justice charged Gabriel Hurtado-Cariaco—an illegal alien from Venezuela—with attempted murder of a federal officer and assault of a federal officer with infliction of bodily injury.  

    Hurtado-Cariaco entered the U.S. illegally in 2023—and Border Patrol removed him. In 2024—under the Biden administration—he re-entered the U.S. illegally and was released into the country with a notice to appear. 

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: ICE Arrests Criminal Illegal Alien Tren de Aragua Gang Member for Attempting to Murder an ICE Officer

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    This criminal illegal alien faces federal charges including attempted murder of a federal officer and assault of a federal officer with infliction of bodily injury

    WASHINGTON – Today, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the arrest of Gabriel Hurtado-Cariaco, a criminal illegal alien and Tren de Aragua gang member who violently attacked a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) special agent and an FBI special agent.  

    “This Venezuelan national is a criminal illegal alien and Tren de Aragua gang member who violently attacked an ICE and FBI agent and has been charged with attempted murder,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident. Our ICE agents are facing a 500% increase surge in assaults against them. Our brave law enforcement puts their lives on the line every day to arrest terrorists, gang members, and other violent criminals that the previous administration released into American communities. Secretary Noem has been clear: anyone who assaults an ICE law enforcement officer will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”  

    On June 18, ICE Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Omaha led an operation to arrest Gabriel Hurtado-Cariaco, a known Tren de Aragua terrorist, in Bellevue, Nebraska. As ICE and their law enforcement partners attempted to take him into custody, Hurtado-Cariaco launched a brutal and premeditated assault on an ICE HSI special agent.  

    During the attack, the illegal alien threw the ICE agent to the ground, slammed her head into the pavement, ripped off her body armor, and made repeated and physical violent contact. The agent sustained serious injuries to her head and arm and was immediately transported to the University of Nebraska Medical Center for treatment. The agent has since been released from the hospital and is recovering at home. Hurtado-Cariaco also assaulted an FBI agent during the incident.  

    Following the attack, Hurtado-Cariaco fled the scene but was apprehended approximately an hour later in the immediate area by ICE and coordinated law enforcement teams. 

    The Department of Justice charged Gabriel Hurtado-Cariaco—an illegal alien from Venezuela—with attempted murder of a federal officer and assault of a federal officer with infliction of bodily injury.  

    Hurtado-Cariaco entered the U.S. illegally in 2023—and Border Patrol removed him. In 2024—under the Biden administration—he re-entered the U.S. illegally and was released into the country with a notice to appear. 

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta: Gutting NPR and PBS is a Dangerous Loss for Americans

    Source: US State of California

    Public media is an essential resource — especially for rural communities in emergency situations  

    OAKLAND — California Attorney General Rob Bonta today joined 23 attorneys general in submitting an amicus brief supporting NPR (National Public Radio) and PBS (Public Broadcasting Service) in their challenge to the Trump Administration directing the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) to withhold federal funding from NPR and PBS. California public broadcasting companies received over $57 million in grants and allocations from CPB last year, much of which is distributed through NPR and PBS. In the brief, the attorneys general highlight the important role of public media in providing millions of Americans — especially rural, remote, and Tribal communities — with essential state and nationwide news and emergency notifications. Especially as the state experiences an increase in wildfires, Californians rely on public radio to receive vital information including evacuation orders.  

    “Public media serves all Americans, regardless of their ability to pay. In many rural communities, public radio stations are often the main or only source for local news and regularly partner with federal, state, and local authorities to provide lifesaving emergency communications, including early earthquake warnings and fire evacuation orders,” said Attorney General Bonta. “Without federal funding, rural areas of the country would lose this critical communication lifeline. Particularly amid an increase in natural disasters, leaving a whole swath of Americans without access to timely information is dangerous and unacceptable.”

    Public radio and television station alerts and reporting on emergency situations are often a lifeline for audiences throughout the country. Public broadcasters transmit emergency alerts to areas where there is little or no reliable internet or cellular service or when this service is disrupted. Public radio and television stations often have hardened and resilient infrastructure that allows them to continue broadcasting during emergency situations that may knock out power or other communications resources. Loss of federal funding to NPR and PBS would result in impacts to state and local authorities who frequently partner with public broadcasters; authorities would lose access to infrastructure they rely on to communicate immediate and life-saving emergency alerts to the public. Because this infrastructure cannot be quickly, easily, or inexpensively replaced, Americans nationwide — and particularly those in rural and remote areas — would experience real harm. 

    Public media is particularly critical in rural and Tribal areas where news, educational programming, and emergency alerts are significantly more limited. Rural areas are more vulnerable to the catastrophic effects of weather disasters and tend to not have the same access to reliable, high-speed internet as their urban counterparts. 

    In California, federal funding cuts to public media will disproportionately affect small and rural media stations, which are primarily funded by CPB. Approximately 40% of CPB grantees are considered rural — and in recent years CPB has prioritized resources to remote stations, which face unique challenges and higher costs than urban stations to reach remote sparsely populated areas. Whereas most urban stations have other funding sources, CPB funds can account for up to 60% of a rural station’s funding, meaning that reduction or elimination of funding from CPB would have the most negative impact on stations serving these communities. 

    In submitting the amicus brief, Attorney General Bonta joins the attorneys general of Colorado, Arizona, Minnesota, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia. 

    A copy of the brief can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Update 6: Alberta wildfire update (June 20, 3:30 p.m.)

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Leader of Multimillion-Dollar International Money Laundering and Drug Trafficking Ring Convicted

    Source: US FBI

    ATLANTA – Monica Dominguez Torres, 36, of Mexico, pleaded guilty on June 13, 2025, to federal charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and conspiracy to commit money laundering. Dominguez led a transnational criminal organization that operated methamphetamine conversion laboratories in the Atlanta area and laundered millions of dollars of drug proceeds to Mexico.

    “Dominguez’s elaborate criminal operation has been dismantled, and more than $3.5 million of illicit drug proceeds have been seized as a result of our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners’ diligent work,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “Our office will continue to aggressively prosecute individuals like Dominguez who seek an undeserved life of luxury by trafficking deadly drugs in our community.”

    Jae W. Chung, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division stated, “Through hard work, this drug trafficking and money laundering network has been removed from our streets. This criminal organization had no regard for the destructive impact on our communities.”

    “This conviction sends a strong message to those who think they can live a life of luxury funded by illegal activities,” said Steven N. Schrank, the Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Georgia and Alabama. “Thanks to the dedicated collaboration between HSI and our law enforcement partners at the federal, state, and local levels, we were able to dismantle Monica Dominguez Torres’s multi-million dollar drug trafficking and money laundering ring, seizing millions in illicit proceeds and bringing her to justice.”

    “Monica Torres led a transnational organized crime organization, which like others of its nature, threatens the national and economic security of the United States,” said Special Agent in Charge Demetrius Hardeman, IRS Criminal Investigation, Atlanta Field Office. “IRS Criminal Investigation special agents, along with our other federal, state, and local law enforcement partners of the Atlanta Strike Force are working together to find, investigate, and bring to justice those who endanger American citizens lives through their drug trafficking and other illicit crimes.”

    According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges and other information presented in court: Monica Dominguez Torres’s organization operated methamphetamine conversion laboratories where liquid methamphetamine, obtained from sources in Mexico, was converted into hundreds of kilograms of crystal methamphetamine to be sold in the Atlanta area and elsewhere. Dominguez and her associates also used residences in the Atlanta area to collect and count millions of dollars in cash from these drug sales. The proceeds were laundered and sent to coconspirators in Mexico. 

    As part of the criminal operation, Dominguez and her associates purchased millions of dollars’ worth of real estate, vehicles, and luxury goods – all designed to conceal the illicit source of their wealth. The investigation revealed that Dominguez purchased five separate residences, including a seven-bedroom waterfront home in Jonesboro, Georgia. Three of these residences were purchased with bulk cash brought directly to the transaction. Dominguez and others also purchased nine luxury vehicles worth approximately $780,000. Dominguez also spent lavishly on high-end goods, including nearly $400,000 at Louis Vuitton and more than $425,000 at Burberry over roughly four and a half years. 

    During the investigation, agents seized nearly $3.6 million in cash from Dominguez’s residences, stash locations, and associates. When agents arrested Dominguez at her Conyers, Georgia home in February 2024, they seized more than $1.7 million in cash, five firearms, and three vehicles.

    Dominguez is scheduled to be sentenced on September 15, 2025, at 1:30 pm, before Chief United States District Judge Leigh Martin May. Regarding her drug trafficking conviction, Dominguez faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years, up to life in prison, a maximum $10,000,000 fine, and a minimum of five years of supervised release. The money laundering conviction carries a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a maximum $500,000 fine or twice the value of the laundered funds, up to three years of supervised release, and forfeiture of property involved in the offense. 

    This case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, and Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations, with valuable assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Marshals Service, Georgia State Patrol, the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office, and the Paulding County Sheriff’s Office.

    Assistant United States Attorneys John T. DeGenova, Deputy Chief of the Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs Section, and Nicholas L. Evert are prosecuting the case.

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

    This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to eliminate the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations.

    The specific mission of the David G. Wilhelm Atlanta OCDETF Strike Force (Atlanta Strike Force) is to eliminate transnational organized crime syndicates and major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations in the Atlanta metropolitan area and the Northern District of Georgia. To accomplish this mission, the Atlanta Strike Force will target these organizations’ leaders, focusing on targets designated as Consolidated Priority Organization Targets, Regional Priority Organization Targets, and their associates. The Atlanta Strike Force is comprised of agents and officers from ATF, DEA, FBI, HSI, USMS, USPIS, and IRS, as well as numerous state and local agencies; and the prosecution is being led by the Office of the United States Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia.

    For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6280. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Univest Securities, LLC Announces Closing of $2.37 Million Registered Direct Offering for its Client Houston American Energy Corp. (NYSE American: HUSA)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, June 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Univest Securities, LLC (“Univest”), a member of FINRA and SIPC, and a full-service investment bank and securities broker-dealer firm based in New York, today announced the closing of registered direct offering (the “Offering”), for its client Houston American Energy Corp. (NYSE American: HUSA) (the “Company”), an independent oil and gas company.

    Under the terms of the securities purchase agreement, the Company has agreed to sell to an institutional investor (the “SPA”) for the purchase and sale of an aggregate of 223,762 shares of common stock (or pre-funded warrants in lieu thereof) at a purchase price of $10.60 per share (or pre-funded warrant in lieu thereof) in a registered direct offering.

    The aggregate gross proceeds to the Company of this offering were approximately $2.37 million, before deducting the placement agent’s fees and other offering expenses payable by the Company. The Company currently intends to use the net proceeds of approximately $2.1 million from the offering for general corporate purposes.

    Univest Securities, LLC acted as the sole placement agent.

    The registered direct offering was made pursuant to a shelf registration statement on Form S-3 (File No. 333-282778) previously filed by the Company and declared effective by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on November 4, 2024. A final prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus describing the terms of the proposed offering were filed with the SEC and are available on the SEC’s website located at http://www.sec.gov. Electronic copies of the final prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus may be obtained, by contacting Univest Securities, LLC at info@univest.us, or by calling +1 (212) 343-8888.

    This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor will there be any sales of such securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of such jurisdiction. Copies of the prospectus supplement relating to the registered direct offering, together with the accompanying base prospectus, can be obtained at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

    About Univest Securities, LLC

    Registered with FINRA since 1994, Univest Securities, LLC provides a wide variety of financial services to its institutional and retail clients globally including brokerage and execution services, sales and trading, market making, investment banking and advisory, wealth management. It strives to provide clients with value-add service and focuses on building long-term relationship with its clients. For more information, please visit: www.univest.us.

    About Houston American Energy Corp.

    Houston American Energy Corp., an independent oil and gas company, engages in the acquisition, exploration, exploitation, development, and production of natural gas, crude oil, and condensate. Its principal properties are located primarily in the Texas Permian Basin, the South American country of Colombia, and the onshore Louisiana Gulf Coast region. The company is based in Houston, Texas.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include statements concerning plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performance, and underlying assumptions and other statements that are other than statements of historical facts. When the Company uses words such as “may, “will, “intend,” “should,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “project,” “estimate” or similar expressions that do not relate solely to historical matters, it is making forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results to differ materially from the Company’s expectations discussed in the forward-looking statements. These statements are subject to uncertainties and risks including, but not limited to, the uncertainties related to market conditions and the completion of the initial public offering on the anticipated terms or at all, and other factors discussed in the “Risk Factors” section of the registration statement filed with the SEC. For these reasons, among others, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements in this press release. Additional factors are discussed in the Company’s filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov. Univest Securities LLC and the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly revise these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that arise after the date hereof.

    For more information, please contact:

    Univest Securities, LLC
    Edric Guo
    Chief Executive Officer
    75 Rockefeller Plaza, Suite 18C
    New York, NY 10019
    Phone: (212) 343-8888
    Email: info@univest.us

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Peter Dey Announces Retirement from Gran Tierra’s Board of Directors

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, June 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gran Tierra Energy Inc. (“Gran Tierra” or the “Company”) (NYSE American:GTE)(TSX:GTE)(LSE:GTE) today announced that, for personal reasons, Peter Dey will be stepping down from the Board of Gran Tierra at the end of June 2025. Peter has agreed to make himself available to consult with the Board as required until the end of 2025 while a search is conducted for a replacement director.

    “On behalf of the Board of Directors of Gran Tierra, I want to thank Peter for his leadership and guidance since 2015,” said Bob Hodgins, Chairman of Gran Tierra Energy Inc.

    “We have worked with Peter for almost 15 years across multiple companies and continents. Peter is a distinguished expert in board governance, and his broad commercial background and strategic input have been instrumental in navigating a volatile and evolving industry,” said Gary Guidry, CEO of Gran Tierra Energy Inc.

    About Gran Tierra Energy Inc.

    Gran Tierra Energy Inc., together with its subsidiaries, is an independent international energy company currently focused on oil and natural gas exploration and production in Canada, Colombia and Ecuador. The Company is currently developing its existing portfolio of assets in Canada, Colombia and Ecuador and will continue to pursue additional new growth opportunities that would further strengthen the Company’s portfolio. The Company’s common stock trades on the NYSE American, the Toronto Stock Exchange and the London Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol GTE. Additional information concerning Gran Tierra is available at www.grantierra.com. Except to the extent expressly stated otherwise, information on the Company’s website or accessible from our website or any other website is not incorporated by reference into and should not be considered part of this press release. Investor inquiries may be directed to info@grantierra.com or (403) 265-3221.

    Gran Tierra’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) are available on the SEC website at http://www.sec.gov. The Company’s Canadian securities regulatory filings are available on SEDAR+ at http://www.sedarplus.ca and UK regulatory filings are available on the National Storage Mechanism website at https://data.fca.org.uk/#/nsm/nationalstoragemechanism.

    Contact Information

    For investor and media inquiries please contact:

    Gary Guidry
    President & Chief Executive Officer

    Ryan Ellson
    Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
    +1-403-265-3221
    info@grantierra.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican National Sentenced to Six Years for Coordinating Drug Shipments Into U.S.

    Source: US FBI

    BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A 55-year-old Mexican national illegally residing in Raymondville has been ordered to prison for trafficking methamphetamine and heroin, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Reynaldo Galvan-Rico pleaded guilty April 4, 2024.

    U.S. District Judge Rolando Olvera has now ordered him to serve 72 months in federal prison. Galvan-Rico is expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment.

    Beginning in March 2019, authorities identified Galvan-Rico as a coordinator in Mexico. The investigation revealed he acted as the point of contact for the drug supplier in Mexico and the drivers transporting narcotics in the United States.

    Galvan-Rico was allowed to remain on bond and surrender at a later date.

    “A major component of Operation Take Back America is the pursuit and punishment of drug traffickers,” said Ganjei. “Those that seek a quick buck by poisoning our communities through the drug trade should be looking over their shoulder because we are coming for them.”

    Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration and FBI conducted the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation with the assistance of Customs and Border Protection.

    OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found on the Department of Justice’s OCDETF webpage.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Lance Watt prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Gabe Vasquez Wraps Tour Highlighting Medicaid and SNAP Cuts, Rural Health Access, and Constituent Services Wins Across New Mexico

    Source: US Representative Gabe Vasquez’s (NM-02)

    ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – On June 18, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) completed a multi-day tour across New Mexico’s second district, spotlighting the harmful impacts the Republican reconciliation bill would have on health care, food assistance, rural communities and hardworking New Mexicans who utilize vital federal programs to survive and support their families.

    “The proposed cuts to Medicaid and SNAP would devastate New Mexico,” said Vasquez. “The One Big Ugly Bill would take health care away from expectant mothers in Socorro, take food off the table for families in Albuquerque, and shutter the doors of rural hospitals. It is shameful that this administration is playing politics with our lives. I’m in this fight to protect the people I serve, and I’m going to continue my work to stop this disastrous bill.”

    On Tuesday, June 17th, Vasquez visited Socorro General Hospital, which serves rural communities across central New Mexico, to hear from medical providers and hospital staff about the critical role Medicaid plays in delivering maternity care and youth medical services. With Medicaid covering more than half of all births in New Mexico, the Congressman made clear that cuts to Medicaid and onerous paperwork requirements are a direct threat to maternal health and care for kids across the state.

    On Wednesday, June 18, Vasquez hosted a roundtable and press conference in Albuquerque with healthcare providers, state officials, patient advocates, and Medicaid recipients. Together, they called attention to the nearly $800 billion in proposed Medicaid cuts that would disproportionately harm communities across New Mexico.

    “In our district alone, more than 38,000 people would lose Medicaid coverage,” said Vasquez. “That’s mothers in Hatch, farmworkers in Deming, and patients in Lordsburg who won’t be able to fill their prescriptions. This is not fiscal responsibility—it’s cruelty.”

    Leaders who joined Vasquez included:

    • Alanna Dancis, Chief Medical Officer, NM Health Care Authority
       
    • Dr. Steve McLaughlin, Chief Medical Officer, UNM Hospitals
       
    • Brent Earnest, COO, BeWell NM
       
    • Dee Gipson, Administrator, South Valley Care Center
       
    • Ash Green, Advocate, National MS Society

    They were joined by representatives from NM Voices for Children, Health Action NM, the NM Primary Care Association, Disability Rights NM, the ARC of New Mexico, and more.

    WATCH: VASQUEZ DELIVERS REMARKS AT MEDICAID CUTS PRESS CONFERENCE

    Later in the morning, Vasquez visited S.R. Marmon Elementary School to observe the Albuquerque Public Schools Summer Meal Program in action. The program provides free meals to students, many of whom face food insecurity year-round. Vasquez highlighted the critical role these school-based nutrition programs play as proposed SNAP cuts threaten to reduce access to food at home, leaving children increasingly dependent on school meals as their primary source of nutrition.

    Vasquez ended the day by meeting with constituents who received assistance from his office in navigating complex federal issues from securing VA healthcare benefits for veterans to resolving erroneous Social Security claims. He highlighted these cases as clear examples of how government can deliver when it remains accessible and accountable. Among them was Terry, a veteran who struggled for months to get a response on his retirement until he contacted Vasquez’s office.

    “No one was getting back to me, so I reached out to Congressman Vasquez’s office and asked for help. I had tried everything to submit my records the way the VA asked, but nothing was working. Then Mr. Drew Hill from the Congressman’s team stepped in. Within days, my caseworker called to say my retirement had been approved. That’s the kind of work Congressman Vasquez and his staff do — they perform miracles,” said Terry. 

    Rep. Vasquez’s two-day visit underscores his commitment to protecting Medicaid, SNAP, and essential services that help New Mexicans stay healthy, put food on the table, and build more secure lives, no matter their income or zip code.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Gabe Vasquez Champions Food Security, LGBTQ+ Rights, and Education Pathways in Las Cruces

    Source: US Representative Gabe Vasquez’s (NM-02)

    LAS CRUCES, N.M. – On June 16, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) engaged with communities across Las Cruces and the surrounding areas to address urgent issues facing rural New Mexico, including food insecurity amid SNAP cuts, challenges impacting LGBTQ+ residents, and expanding college access for first-generation students.

    “Families in Hatch shouldn’t have to wonder where their next meal is coming from. LGBTQ+ communities deserve to live with dignity and without fear, and every student — no matter their zip code — should have a real pathway to higher education,” said Vasquez. “At a time when federal investments in New Mexico are on the chopping block, I’m not sitting on the sidelines. I’m showing up, listening closely, and fighting for the resources, respect, and opportunities our communities deserve.”

    Rep. Vasquez began the day by visiting Slim’s Food Pantry, which received FY2024 Community Project Funding to build a permanent facility in rural Doña Ana County. As proposed SNAP cuts threaten to worsen the food insecurity crisis across southern New Mexico, Vasquez underscored the urgency of protecting food access for working families and reaffirmed his commitment to defending federal nutrition programs and delivering resources that directly support local communities.

    Vasquez also visited the 2025 Summer Aggie Academy, part of New Mexico State University’s TRiO Upward Bound Program, which supports nearly 100 first-generation and low-income students from school districts like Alamogordo, Gadsden, Las Cruces, and Hatch Valley. Speaking directly with students, Vasquez shared his journey as a first-generation Mexican-American college student and emphasized the importance of education, showing young New Mexicans that their dreams are important and within reach. Vasquez has championed the TRIO program through the Appropriations process for the last two years. With the administration threatening to end funding for TRIO, Vasquez reiterated that he will continue to champion this critical program.

    Lastly, Vasquez convened an LGBTQ+ advocacy roundtable to hear firsthand from local leaders and activists about increasing threats and attacks targeting the LGBTQ+ community, including rolling back civil rights protections as well as cuts to gender affirming care, HIV programs, and reproductive health services. In a powerful dialogue, advocates shared stories of resilience and called for stronger protections. Vasquez reiterated his solidarity and pledged to continue pushing back against discrimination and standing up for the dignity and safety of all New Mexicans.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Gabe Vasquez Rallies Outdoor Advocates to Defend Public Lands at OMDP Hike and Press Conference

    Source: US Representative Gabe Vasquez’s (NM-02)

    LAS CRUCES, N.M. – Today, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) joined conservation advocates, local leaders, and community members at the Organ Mountains–Desert Peaks National Monument (OMDP) to rally against renewed efforts to sell off federal public lands. The event featured a press conference and community hike, highlighting the cultural, economic, and environmental importance of public lands to southern New Mexico.

    The event comes amidst a revived push by Senate Republicans to advance one of the most extreme public land sell-off proposals in recent history of over 3.3 million acres. While these provisions were blocked in the House thanks to Rep. Vasquez’s leadership in the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus, they have resurfaced in the Senate’s version of the budget reconciliation bill, reigniting concern across the West.

    WATCH: REP. VASQUEZ DELIVERS REMARKS AT PROTECT PUBLIC LANDS PRESS CONFERENCE

    “Standing here at Organ Mountains–Desert Peaks, I’m reminded that what’s at stake isn’t just this monument—it’s the future of millions of acres of public lands across New Mexico and the West that could be sold off because of Republican proposals in Congress,” said Vasquez. “These lands are part of our identity. They support local jobs, protect sacred Tribal sites, and give our kids a chance to connect with the outdoors. Our public lands are not for sale. Period.”

    “There are a number of reasons why keeping OMDP intact and untouched is so important. Not only are conservation and preservation instrumental in this argument, but in Las Cruces, our community has embraced this monument because of the hiking and camping, the outdoor recreation opportunities, and so much more,” said Carrie Hamblen, CEO and President of the Las Cruces Green Chamber of Commerce and New Mexico State Senator. “Our local businesses rely on the tourism that brings visitors into our stores and restaurants and creates a memorable experience for all to enjoy. Our monument isn’t for sale, and our community has proven to this administration that it should be left alone.”

    “Our community in Southern New Mexico understands that our landscape brings us together. These lands hold so much more than what can be extracted or profited from them. They hold our stories, they are homes to essential wildlife, they improve the health of our communities,” said Patrick Nolan, Executive Director of Friends of Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks. “The value of our lands cannot be summed up by what can be extracted from them. We hope Congress, with the help of Representative Vasquez, understands that the value of our lands cannot be summed up by what can be extracted from them. That these lands hold value as they are protected and conserved for generations to come.” 

    “New Mexico Wild and our thousands of members object in the strongest possible terms to any attempts to shrink, eliminate, or remove protections for Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks or any other national monument. These monuments were created as a result of local communities working for years to protect these one of a kind places,” said Mark Allison, Executive Director of New Mexico Wild. “Nearly 90% of New Mexicans — people of all political persuasions — support keeping our monuments intact. They are not merely lines on a map but critical ecological havens, sacred cultural sites, and irreplaceable natural treasures that help define our identity. Public lands are the backdrop to our state’s outdoor heritage and way of life.  Plans to sell off our children’s inheritance to benefit connected billionaires is a theft of historic proportions and should make all Americans ashamed and outraged.”

    “To New Mexicans public lands aren’t some line item on a budget spreadsheet. Public lands are our lifeblood. Wild, public places and the wild things that inhabit those places are integral to the culture, traditions and lifestyle of countless people across the West,” said Jesse Duebel, Executive Director of the New Mexico Wildlife Federation. “Public lands are not just about outdoor recreation and all the health and economic benefits associated with that. These places house our identity. It’s where we go to obtain our food, the firewood to heat our homes, and the solace we need to overcome the challenges of modern society. Public lands are our gym, our church and our grocery store. In short, our public lands are not for sale, they are in our DNA.”

    “The broad scheme to sell off our public lands, national heritage, and outdoor access to the wealthy and well-connected will block access to regular Americans for hiking, camping, hunting, and fishing. It also willfully ignores or disrespects the Indigenous, Hispano, and local communities who rely on these lands for cultural, spiritual, economic, and recreational reasons, said Romir Lahiri, Associate Program Director for Conservation Lands Foundation. “These lands are part of what makes New Mexico so special. New Mexico’s national monuments, including Organ Mountains–Desert Peaks and Río Grande del Norte, exist because the people demanded it. From local business owners and family campers to mountain guides and outdoor adventurers, the majority—regardless of political affiliation—want these treasured natural places protected and accessible for generations to come.”

    “Our public lands are living landscapes. Any effort to weaken their protections threaten the health, heritage, and well-being of their connected communities and stand in direct opposition to the voices of New Mexicans. Despite overwhelming support for our public lands, the Trump Administration is systematically degrading the laws and agencies that manage these irreplaceable places and jeopardizing the legal duty to engage meaningfully with Tribal leadership,” said Maude Dinan, New Mexico Program Manager for the National Parks Conservation Association.“Prioritizing oil and gas drilling or mining, erasing national monuments, or transferring public lands to states is short-sighted and will cause irrevocable harm to our landscapes and people.”

    Earlier this year, Vasquez launched the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus alongside Rep. Ryan Zinke (R-MT-01) to bring together lawmakers from both parties who support the protection of public lands. The caucus has quickly become a driving force behind efforts to conserve our public lands and fight for the outdoor recreation economy.

    In addition to fighting against this latest effort to sell public lands in order to pay for tax breaks for billionaires, Vasquez also joined a letter earlier this year to the administration urging the Department of Interior to leave OMDP intact, highlighting its significant landscapes, cultural resources and economic impact.

    As the reconciliation package and other efforts to sell off public lands move forward, Vasquez pledged to continue building bipartisan support for protecting public lands for future generations.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Tomorrow, on the Plains: the Edwin-Bélanger Bandstand kicks off a summer of free music!

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    Quebec City, Friday, June 20, 2025 – Beginning tomorrow, the stage of the Edwin-Bélanger Bandstand (EBB) will come alive with the launch of its summer program! From now to August 23, 2025, on Thursdays and Saturdays, Quebec City’s residents and visitors are invited to enjoy free musical and cultural events against the enchanting backdrop of the Plains of Abraham.

    Tennessee Whiskey to start off the season
    This series of shows will begin this Saturday, starting at 7 p.m. The six artists of the group Tennessee Whiskey will be on stage for a faithful recreation of Chris Stapleton’s country music. Backed by six talented musicians, the show promises powerful harmonies and heartfelt guitar solos that brilliantly capture iconic Stapleton songs like Broken Halos and Tennessee Whiskey.

    Next week: Chico Band, and Duo Christian Marc Gendron & Manon Séguin
    To continue this live music series, two vibrant evenings are on the program. On Thursday, June 26 at 7 p.m., the best of Latin music takes over the EBB stage with the Chico Band. Audiences will be transported from Cuba to Brazil, with stops in Colombia and Puerto Rico, to the rhythm of salsa, merengue, reggaeton, cumbia, and more.

    On Saturday, June 28 at the same time, an intimate musical moment will take place with pianist and singer Christian Marc Gendron. In this unique concert, he performs the greatest songs of his career with humor and generosity, joined by his longtime partner, Manon Séguin.

    Please note that the EBB will take a break during the Festival d’été de Québec, from July 3 to 13. Free shows will resume on July 17.

    Something for everyone all summer long
    Every Thursday and Saturday, the EBB will be presenting shows at 7 p.m. or 8 p.m. The stage will pulsate to a diverse range of beats: country music, Latin music, rock, pop, Québécois, jazz, and folk, plus an encounter between the musical traditions of the West and those of the Indigenous peoples. There will be something for all tastes!

    Among the scheduled artists are Tom Folly, Andréanne A. Malette, Sabor 19, Duo Phoenix, Guylaine Tanguay, Yvan Pedneault, Génération Crooner, LBA Band, Coco Country Band, New World Men, Mike DeWay, Kawandak, Gabrielle Destroismaisons, and Patrick Norman & Nathalie Lord.

    The EBB will also offer family-oriented shows on four Saturday mornings: July 19 and 26 and August 9 and 16 at 11 a.m. Arthur L’aventurier, Le Gentil Géant, and other colourful characters will take the stage to entertain the kids.

    New! Two evenings added to the program
    In addition to the musical events already announced, two cultural evenings are now on the program. On Wednesday, July 23, there will be a public lecture, in French, about the American attack on Quebec City in 1775:  Québec 1775-1776 – Le dernier siège. On Friday, August 22, the Royal 22e Régiment will offer a special performance on the EBB stage.

    To learn more about the program: www.plainsofabraham.ca

    Extended business hours for Smith Café at the Central Pavilion
    Smith Café has been on the Plains of Abraham for nearly a year and will again be enhancing the EBB experience with its selection of beverages and food. An aperitif on the Central Pavilion terrace, a picnic on the Plains with a packed lunch, or a savoury coffee in your hand—everything is provided to make your summer enjoyable! This branch of Smith Cafe will offer extended business hours during the shows.

    About the National Battlefields Commission
    The Battlefields Park is Canada’s first national historic park and notably includes the Plains of Abraham and Des Braves Park. Since 1908, the National Battlefields Commission, an agency of the Canadian government, has been striving to preserve and develop this site that brings so many people together. Throughout the year, it offers a variety of activities for those who wish to explore the park and its history. www.plainsofabraham.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –