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Category: Middle East

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China Ready to Raise Level of Strategic Interaction with Russia — Chinese Foreign Minister

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    KUALA LUMPUR, July 10 (Xinhua) — China is willing to work with Russia to continuously raise the level of China-Russia strategic cooperation to protect the security and development interests of both countries, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday.

    Wang Yi, who is also a member of the Politburo of the CPC Central Committee, made the statement during a meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.

    The Chinese diplomat noted that the heads of the two states maintain strategic communication, guiding the sustainable and long-term development of Chinese-Russian relations in the context of changes unseen in a century.

    Last month, Wang Yi recalled, the two heads of state held a telephone conversation and loudly voiced China and Russia’s positions on regional and international hot spot issues.

    Noting that China and Russia are important dialogue partners of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Wang Yi stressed that the two countries should strengthen strategic coordination on the platform of East Asia cooperation, uphold an open and inclusive regional cooperation architecture with ASEAN at the center, adhere to the correct development vector of the East Asia Summit and the ASEAN Regional Forum, and promote further consensus-building on development within the framework of the East Asia cooperation mechanism, making it an important engine and positive force for global development.

    S. Lavrov, for his part, stated that under the strategic leadership of the heads of the two states, Russia and China maintain close coordination and cooperation, demonstrating the global and strategic significance of bilateral relations. According to him, this is especially important in the current conditions.

    Both countries support ASEAN’s central role in regional cooperation and are committed to maintaining peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region, Lavrov continued, stressing that Russia and China should remain vigilant against attempts by some major powers to sow discord and provoke confrontation in the region.

    He assured that Russia will fully support China’s chairmanship of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and is ready to jointly plan further high-level exchanges and cooperation in various fields, and strengthen communication and interaction in a format such as BRICS.

    The parties also exchanged views on the Iranian nuclear issue. S. Lavrov outlined in detail Russia’s position and considerations on this issue.

    Wang Yi stressed that force does not bring peace, pressure does not solve problems, and only negotiations and dialogue are the only right path. According to the diplomat, China appreciates Iran’s commitment not to seek to develop nuclear weapons and respects its legitimate right as a party to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons to peaceful uses of nuclear energy.

    As permanent members of the UN Security Council and important participants in the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action on the Iranian nuclear program, China and Russia should further strengthen strategic coordination, advance the political and diplomatic settlement of the Iranian nuclear issue, jointly uphold the international nuclear non-proliferation regime, and promote an early achievement of peace and stability in the Middle East, Wang Yi said.

    In addition, the parties exchanged views on the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and other international and regional hot spot issues of mutual interest. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: TrustCo to Release Second Quarter 2025 Results on July 21, 2025; Conference Call on July 22, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    GLENVILLE, N.Y., July 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TrustCo Bank Corp NY (TrustCo, Nasdaq: TRST) today announced that it will release second quarter 2025 results after the market close on July 21, 2025. Results are released on the 21st of the reporting months (January, April, July and October), or on the next day that equity markets are open if the 21st falls on a Friday, weekend or holiday. A conference call to discuss the results will be held at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time on July 22, 2025. Those wishing to participate in the call may dial toll-free for the United States at 1-833-470-1428, and for Canada at 1-833-950-0062, Access code 258501.   A replay of the call will be available for thirty days by dialing toll-free for the United States at 1-866-813-9403, Access code 410483.

    The call will also be audio webcast at https://events.q4inc.com/attendee/979003710, and will be available for one year. The earnings press release will be posted on the Company’s Investor Relations website at: https://trustcobank.q4ir.com/corporate-overview/corporate-profile/default.aspx. Other information, including the Company’s most recent annual report, proxy statement and filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission can also be found at this website.

    TrustCo Bank Corp NY is a $6.3 billion savings and loan holding company and through its subsidiary, Trustco Bank, operates 136 offices in New York, New Jersey, Vermont, Massachusetts, and Florida. For more information, visit www.trustcobank.com.

    In addition, the Bank’s Wealth Management Department offers a full range of investment services, retirement planning and trust and estate administration services.

    The common shares of TrustCo are traded on The NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol TRST.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    All statements in this news release that are not historical are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “goal,” “seek,” “believe,” “project,” “estimate,” “expect,” “strategy,” “future,” “likely,” “may,” “should,” “will” and similar references to future developments, results or periods. TrustCo wishes to caution readers not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made, and such forward-looking statements are subject to factors and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially for TrustCo from the views, beliefs and projections expressed in such statements. Examples of these include, but are not limited to: volatility in financial markets and the soundness of other financial institutions; U.S. government shutdowns, credit rating downgrades, or failure to increase the debt ceiling; changes in interest rates; the effects of inflation and inflationary pressures and changes in monetary and fiscal policies and laws, including changes in the Federal funds target rate by, and interest rate policies of, the Federal Reserve Board; ongoing armed conflicts (including the Russia/Ukraine conflict and the conflict in Israel and surrounding areas); the risks and uncertainties under the heading “Risk Factors” in our most recent annual report on Form 10-K and, if any, in our subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q; the other financial, operational and legal risks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in TrustCo’s cautionary statements contained in its filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission; and the effect of all of such items on our operations, liquidity and capital position, and on the financial condition of our borrowers and other customers. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release represent TrustCo management’s judgment as of the date of this news release. TrustCo disclaims, however, any intent or obligation to update forward-looking statements, either as a result of future developments, new information or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

    Subsidiary: Trustco Bank

    Contact:     Robert Leonard
    Executive Vice President
    (518) 381-3693
         

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Human Rights Committee Holds Emergency Meeting with States Parties as the United Nations’ Financial Crisis Threatens its Survival

    Source: United Nations – Geneva

    The Human Rights Committee today held an emergency meeting with States parties to discuss the financial challenges of the United Nations and the Committee’s future.

    Committee Chairperson Changrok Soh, in opening remarks, said the Committee’s ability to fulfil its mandate was under serious threat. Austerity measures had been imposed on it that jeopardised not just its current work, but the very future of the Committee itself.

    The Committee’s most pressing concern was the cancellation of its third session this year, Mr. Soh said. This was the first time in its 50-year history that such a cancellation had occurred. Losing a session meant serious delays in reviewing State party reports and in deciding on individual complaints of Covenant violations. Many victims had already waited years for justice. Now, they would wait even longer, he said.

    Mr. Soh appealed to States parties to help the Committee find a solution. The Committee needed States’ political will, financial commitment, and concrete support — not only to help it find a way to hold its third session this year, but also to strengthen the system for the future.

    In the ensuing discussion, States parties expressed support for the Committee and the treaty body system, and concern regarding the financial crisis and the cancellation of the third session. They called on the Committee to come up with new, sustainable, cost-effective solutions to address the structural issues underpinning the situation, while maintaining its work and integrity.

    Concluding the meeting, Mr. Soh said that treaty bodies were not receiving enough funding for their core work. They were doing their best in terms of rationalisation and increasing efficiency, but as allocated resources declined, support for the treaty bodies’ work diminished, creating a vicious cycle.

    To address this situation, special measures were needed, such as utilising voluntary contributions transparently, he said. Without a properly functioning treaty body system, human rights protections would weaken around the world. Decisive and urgent action was needed to protect the treaty body system and human rights around the world, he concluded.

    Speaking in the meeting were representatives of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, as well as Japan, Spain, Serbia, Egypt, Croatia, Colombia, Russian Federation, Costa Rica, Islamic Republic of Iran and France.

    The Human Rights Committee’s one hundred and forty-fourth session is being held from 23 June to 17 July 2025. All the documents relating to the Committee’s work, including reports submitted by States parties, can be found on the session’s webpage . Meeting summary releases can be found here . The webcast of the Committee’s public meetings can be accessed via the UN Web TV webpage.

    The Committee will next meet in public at 3 p.m. on Tuesday 15 July to hear the progress report of the Special Rapporteur on follow-up to the Committee’s concluding observations.

    Opening Statements by Committee Experts

    CHANGROK SOH, Committee Chair, said the Committee had convened the emergency meeting to discuss a single, urgent issue: “The financial challenges of the United Nations and the future of the Human Rights Committee.” The Committee came before States today with a profound sense of urgency.

    All members of the Human Rights Committee were deeply honoured to take enormous responsibility for monitoring the implementation of the Covenant. They took this duty very seriously. But today, its ability to fulfil this mandate was under serious threat. The austerity measures imposed on the Committee jeopardised not just its current work, but the very future of the Committee itself.

    These were truly unprecedented times — for the Committee and for the entire treaty body system. The Committee’s most pressing concern was the cancellation of its third session this year, scheduled for October and November, as announced by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. This was the first time in the Committee’s 50-year history that such a cancellation had occurred. 

    The cancellation put the Committee in a very difficult position. Its rules of procedure required it to meet three times a year. This was a fundamental obligation under the Committee’s mandate and indispensable to the effectiveness of its work. If it lost a session, nearly eight months would pass without a single meeting in Geneva. This meant serious delays in reviewing State party reports and in deciding on individual complaints of Covenant violations. Many victims had already waited years for justice. Now, they would wait even longer. Every delay weakened the Committee’s recommendations, diminished their impact, and undermined their ability to prevent further violations.

    The Committee recognised that the United Nations’ financial crisis was serious, and that the Secretariat was doing its best under the current constraints. But it was clear that the rules and structures of the system were too rigid to cope with situations like this. For example, in early June, during the Treaty Body Chairs’ meeting, several Chairs explored the possibility of mobilising emergency funding to hold autumn sessions. However, they were told that this was not possible, as treaty bodies were required to rely exclusively on the regular budget to carry out their mandated activities. This rule was intended to safeguard the Committee’s independence. But it made little sense if, in practice, it prevented it from functioning at all when the regular budget fell short. The Covenant clearly obliged the Secretary-General to ensure that the Committee could carry out its work. If the current approach blocked the fulfilment of that obligation, then it needed to change.

    The Committee therefore appealed to States parties to help it find a solution. Open and frank communication with the States parties was crucial because, ultimately, it was in States’ interest to ensure that the treaty bodies could continue their vital work, even in difficult times. The Committee needed States’ political will, financial commitment, and concrete support — not only to help it find a way to hold its third session this year, but also to strengthen the system for the future. 

    The Committee monitored the fundamental rights of individuals in 174 States parties — as part of the approximately 1,400 treaty obligations regularly reviewed by the treaty bodies. This was a remarkable early warning and accountability system — one that States parties created. The Committee urged States to ensure that this system could continue to function effectively. If not, what alternative was available?

    This should not be treated as a one-time problem. If this unprecedented cancellation were allowed to be “normalised”, it would set a dangerous precedent. Each time the United Nations faced a funding shortfall, the credibility and effectiveness of the treaty body system, a core pillar of the United Nations’ human rights architecture, would erode further.

    There was growing global pushback against human rights, especially the very rights the Committee was mandated to protect. This was not the moment to weaken United Nations human rights mechanisms. On the contrary, the world needed this remarkable early warning and accountability system now more than ever. 

    The Committee called on States to do three things. First, support the Committee — even at this late stage — in finding a solution to hold its third session this year, and commit to holding all three regular sessions in 2026. Second, allow voluntary contributions from States to be used transparently and responsibly to support the Committee’s work, while fully preserving the independence and impartiality of the treaty bodies. Third, help the Committee function effectively by fulfilling reporting obligations, engaging with the Committee in dialogue, and supporting its work financially and politically, both now and in the long term.

    Statements and Questions by States Parties 

    In the ensuing dialogue, many States expressed appreciation for the ongoing efforts of the Committee and the treaty bodies and their firm commitment to the treaty bodies, which were a cornerstone of the international human rights system. The Committee, they said, made significant contributions to upholding civil and political rights around the world.

    Several speakers expressed deep concern about the financial crisis, which was affecting the mandates of all treaty bodies, the Human Rights Council and Special Procedures, among other mechanisms in the United Nations system. This situation had serious implications for these bodies’ important work.

    One speaker said that their country had increased contributions to the treaty body system and was paying its dues on time, and had also increased unearmarked financial contributions to the Office of the High Commissioner. The speaker said that the country would work to strengthen the capacity of the Secretariat through its contributions.

    Some speakers said treaty bodies needed to work to harmonise their working methods. Cooperation between treaty bodies could lead to solutions to backlogs in individual communications. The Committee had a backlog of over 1,000 individual communications. One speaker asked if the Committee had assessed additional measures to address its backlog.

    Many speakers expressed dismay that the Committee’s third session for the year was to be cancelled, and called for an urgent, mitigating solution to be found to hold the Committee’s third session in November. Without this session, the Committee’s backlog of cases would only increase. Was this issue related to the ordinary budget or to liquidity? One speaker suggested using new technologies and virtual meetings to hold the third session. The Committee needed to come up with new, sustainable, cost-effective solutions to address the structural issues underpinning the situation, while maintaining its work and integrity. 

    Some speakers commended the UN80 initiative and the United Nations’ efforts to address evolving global challenges. However, some speakers said that austerity measures implemented through the UN80 initiative should not affect the work of the treaty bodies and the international human rights system.

    One speaker said it was worth exploring the Chair’s proposal regarding the use of voluntary contributions to facilitate the Committee’s third session, provided that there were no legal barriers to this solution and that the independence and impartiality of the Committee were not affected. The speaker commended the Committee’s efforts to find a solution.

    Another speaker said that their country had attempted to fund one of the treaty bodies’ mandates directly but had been told that funding could only come from the regular budget. If a voluntary funding scheme for the Committee was established, it needed to be established for all the treaty bodies and other mechanisms receiving funds from the regular budget. The speaker said that their country would support solutions proposed by States, while working within the norms of the United Nations’ system.

    A speaker said that one State had traditionally contributed significantly to the funding of the human rights system; the reasons for its sudden cessation of funding needed to be examined. States were the owners of the treaty body system.

    One speaker said multilingualism needed to be an essential value of the treaty bodies; it should not be sacrificed to achieve budgetary austerity.

    Responses by Committee Experts and Others

    A Committee Expert said States were authors of the Covenant and the Optional Protocol on individual communications. The harmonisation of working methods related to individual communications began around three years ago, both formally and informally. There was no resistance from the Committee in this regard. The Human Rights Committee received the largest number of individual communications, given the broad scope of the Covenant. It was proud of its record in dealing with these communications. Delays in issuing decisions on communications affected the relevance and legitimacy of the decisions that the Committee adopted. The Committee had had only three days this session to assess individual communications, while it had had a full week previously.

    The Secretariat had exerted efforts to maintain its staff in the financial crisis. The Committee had a human resources issue; there was a lack of staff to assess individual complaints, prepare draft decisions, and assess follow-up to the Committee’s decisions. The issue of resources needed to be addressed; simply freeing up time in sessions to assess individual communications would not fix the backlog.

    Digitisation was a long-standing structural issue for the Committee. The system that the Committee worked with was not sufficiently digitised.

    Another Committee Expert said the Committee welcomed States’ support and was encouraged by their presence in the dialogue. The Committee received over half of all the individual communications received by the treaty body system. If the Secretariat could not prepare individual cases for assessment, the Committee could not assess them. Without sufficient pre-sessional working time, the Committee’s backlog would only increase. Diplomats in Geneva understood the complexities of the treaty body system. They needed to mobilise with colleagues in New York to support treaty bodies’ efficiency.

    This was the first time that the Committee had organised a special, focused meeting, and it had been very successful. It would be helpful to have annual meetings with States, as well as emergency meetings to discuss urgent issues.

    One Committee Expert proposed that the Committee use digital technologies to hold the third session remotely. A decision on this issue needed to be taken rapidly. However, this was not a solution to the structural problems the Committee faced. The Committee needed to take slow steps forward in this situation.

    Another Committee Expert said that the young generation was questioning the capacity of the human rights system to protect human rights, in the context of the recent increase in violations of human rights and international humanitarian law around the world. The Committee was witnessing the emergence of new challenges, including in relation to climate change and artificial intelligence. It was considering how to address these challenges while preserving human rights. The Committee’s objective was not to level accusations at States; it was to accompany them on their journey toward achieving the best implementation of their commitments. Member States needed to support the Committee now, in the same manner as they had supported it for decades.

    A Committee Expert thanked States parties for their support to the international human rights system. States had created the Committee, recognising the need to monitor and protect civil and political rights. The Committee had an enormous workload and required appropriate financial resources, so that the Secretariat could hire necessary human resources to facilitate its work. The Expert called on States to take initiatives to address the crisis. Solutions needed to address the overall structural crisis over the long term.

    CHANGROK SOH, Committee Chair, said the Committee would present a proposal to States regarding the use of voluntary contributions for holding the third session, but only States could approve this. Mr. Soh expressed support for the idea of holding annual meetings with States parties.

    The Committee met online during the COVID-19 pandemic. It found that these meetings were not effective for various reasons, including time difference and limitations on dialogue and interpretation. The treaty body Chairs had discussed this issue, but had decided that online meetings were not an effective option. However, the Committee would continue to use digital technology, including artificial intelligence, to increase the efficiency of its work.

    WAN-HEA LEE, Chief, Civil, Political, Economic, Social and Cultural Rights Section, Human Rights Council and Treaty Mechanisms Division, Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights , said that, in the past, the Office of the High Commissioner had reduced the working time of pre-sessional working groups to manage the financial crisis. The working group for the third session had been cancelled.

    In the past, the treaty bodies had been facing a liquidity crisis. Dues were being paid, but did not reach the treaty bodies in a timely manner. However, it was not an issue of liquidity anymore. The budget of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights for this year had been cut, and the situation had moved from a liquidity to a financial crisis. The financial outlook for next year was also not bright.

    DINA ROSSBACHER, Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights , said that there was a structural problem in terms of the processing of decisions related to individual communications. The formula adopted by Member States regarding the processing of individual communications had not been fully adopted and this had been exacerbated by the financial crisis. The Committee had taken several steps to address the situation, including efforts to align working methods and increase the efficiency of processing individual communications. Last year, the Committee adopted a record number of decisions on communications – over 450. However, the large backlog remained, and the situation remained urgent.

    Statements and Questions by States Parties

    States expressed support for the work of the Committee, the treaty bodies and the human rights system. It was the responsibility of States to support the work of the Committee, one speaker said.

    Speakers said creative initiatives were needed to address the financial situation, including digital meetings. One State expressed support for the Committee’s efforts to harmonise and increase efficiency for its work.

    One speaker said the Committee needed to further consider the cultural diversity of States in preparing its concluding observations. If the Committee did not consider challenges such as terrorism and unilateral coercive measures, its recommendations would be considered irrelevant to the realities on the ground in some countries. The speaker called on the Committee to prepare a general comment on the impact of unilateral coercive measures on civil and political rights.

    Responses by a Committee Expert

    A Committee Expert said the treaty bodies were implementing innovative methods to review States parties. The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women had this year conducted a special, informal meeting in Fiji to review States parties in the region. This initiative was funded by States parties, and could be a model for other Committees to follow. The application of simplified procedures to individual communications would not be sufficient for fully addressing the Committee’s backlog.

    Closing Remarks

    CHANGROK SOH, Committee Chair, said treaty bodies were at the core of the human rights architecture. However, the Committee’s third session would not happen without extraordinary measures, and this trend would continue if the Committee continued to rely on the United Nations’ regular budget. Less than five per cent of the United Nations’ regular budget was allocated to the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. The treaty body system was not receiving enough funding for its core work. It was doing its best in terms of rationalisation and increasing efficiency. But as allocated resources declined, support diminished, creating a vicious cycle.

    To address this situation, special measures were needed, such as utilising voluntary contributions transparently. Without a properly functioning treaty body system, human rights protections would weaken around the world. Decisive and urgent action was needed to protect the treaty body system and human rights around the world.

    ____________

    This document is produced by the United Nations Information Service at Geneva and is intended for public information; it is not an official document.
    The English and French versions of our news releases are different because they are the product of two separate coverage teams that work independently.

    CCPR25.017E

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Secret negotiations between Türkiye and Syria on the delimitation of maritime zones in the Eastern Mediterranean – E-002735/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002735/2025/rev.1
    to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
    Rule 144
    Yannis Maniatis (S&D)

    According to a letter from the Turkish Foreign Minister to the Office of the President of the Turkish Grand National Assembly, published today[1], Türkiye has initiated secret negotiations with the new regime in Syria on the delimitation of maritime zones beyond territorial waters in the Eastern Mediterranean region.

    Bearing in mind that Türkiye has very close relations with the new Syrian regime, and that the Turkish-Libyan memorandum of understanding – by which Türkiye tried to establish an Exclusive Economic Zone between Türkiye and Libya – violates international law, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and the sovereign rights of Greece, as recognised by the European Council in its conclusions, can the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy say:

    • 1.Are there any conditions for lifting sanctions on the Syrian regime? If so, what are they?
    • 2.What steps will she take to prevent such an agreement and protect the sovereign rights of EU Member States in the Eastern Mediterranean?
    • 3.What sanctions will she impose on both Türkiye and the new Syrian regime, should an agreement on the delimitation of maritime zones such as an EEZ or continental shelf between Syria and Türkiye violate international law and the sovereign rights of EU Member States?

    Submitted: 3.7.2025

    • [1] https://www.iefimerida.gr/kosmos/nordic-monitor-mystikes-diapragmateyseis-toyrkia-syria
    Last updated: 10 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Protection of the Holy Monastery of Sinai – E-002184/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU and the EU Delegation in Cairo are aware of and closely monitoring the developments following the Ismailia Court of Appeals’ ruling linked to the legal status of Saint Catherine’s Monastery in Sinai.

    In a meeting called by the Arab Republic of Egypt’s Foreign Ministry, the Egyptian authorities assured Member States’ Ambassadors and the EU Head of Delegation in Cairo that the Egyptian government remains fully committed to preserving the monastery’s religious, historical, and spiritual status.

    The Egyptian authorities reaffirmed that the monks’ access to the site will not be affected by the court ruling. This matter is also subject to ongoing direct negotiations between the Greek and Egyptian governments.

    The EU, and its Member States, will continue to follow this matter and the commitments made by the government of Egypt.

    Last updated: 10 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Closure of the Monastery of St Catherine in Sinai and violation of religious freedoms by the Egyptian authorities – E-002164/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU and the EU Delegation in Cairo are aware of and continue to monitor the recent developments in Egypt after the Ismailia Court of Appeals issued a ruling linked to the legal status of Saint Catherine’s Monastery in Sinai.

    In a meeting called by the Arab Republic of Egypt’s Foreign Ministry, the Egyptian authorities assured Member States’ Ambassadors and the EU Head of Delegation in Cairo that the Egyptian government remains fully committed to preserving the monastery’s religious, historical, and spiritual status, adding that the current status of the area around Saint Catherine’s Monastery is untouchable. It was reaffirmed that the monks’ access to the site will not be affected by the court ruling.

    The EU welcomes the commitments of the governments of Greece and Egypt to work together towards safeguarding the rights of Saint Catherine’s Monastery and awaits any new developments with regard to its legal status.

    The EU will continue to follow the situation closely and await the result of the discussions between the Egyptian and Greek Authorities, insisting on the necessity to preserve the monastery’s religious, historical, and spiritual status, in accordance with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation World Heritage Convention[1].

    • [1] United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation World Heritage convention website, Saint Catherine Monastery: https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/954/.
    Last updated: 10 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Procedure for reviewing the EU-Israel Association Agreement – P-002301/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The High Representative/Vice-President has been in regular contact with her Israeli counterpart during the process of the review of Israel’s compliance with Article 2 of the EU-Israel Association Agreement[1].

    On 12 June 2025, the European External Action Service (EEAS) submitted a series of questions to the Israeli authorities, which were shared via diplomatic channels, to which the Israeli authorities provided answers before the Foreign Affairs Council of 23 June 2025. The Commission and EEAS are in regular contact with the Israeli authorities.

    Building on the EU Joint Communication for a strategic partnership with the Gulf (18 May 2022)[2], the EU aims to further strengthen its strategic partnerships with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Kingdom of Bahrain, the two Gulf Cooperation Council countries that have signed the Abraham Accords in 2020.

    On 10 April 2025, the President of the Commission, in a phone call with the UAE President, agreed to launch negotiations on a free trade agreement, alongside the negotiation of a broader strategic partnership agreement. The EU shares with the UAE and the Kingdom of Bahrain a mutual interest for regional security, stability and prosperity.

    The Commission has been stepping up the fight against antisemitism and cooperates closely with Member States and Jewish organisations to ensure the protection of Jewish communities, including as part of ProtectEU: a European Internal Security Strategy of April 2025[3].

    Strengthening security, fighting antisemitism and fostering Jewish life is mainstreamed in all relevant EU policy, including when related to shielding democracy and supporting civil society.

    • [1] https://eeas.europa.eu/archives/delegations/israel/documents/eu_israel/asso_agree_en.pdf.
    • [2] https://www.eeas.europa.eu/sites/default/files/documents/Joint%20Communication%20to%20the%20European%20Parliament%20and%20the%20Council%20-%20A%20Strategic%20Partnership%20with%20the%20Gulf.pdf.
    • [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A52025DC0148.
    Last updated: 10 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Bloody Sunday: massacres in Ukraine and Gaza – P-001544/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Concerning Ukraine, the Council has not discussed the issue of the use of cluster munitions by Russia in the attacks of 13 April 2025. The EU recognises the humanitarian goals of the Convention on Cluster Munitions and remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting the protection of civilians from the devastating impacts of explosive remnants of war, including cluster munitions.

    The EU is concerned by the impact on civilian populations of the indiscriminate use of cluster munitions, including the use of cluster munitions by Russia in its unjustified war of aggression against Ukraine in blatant violation of international law, including the UN Charter.

    Concerning Gaza, the EU deplores the breakdown of the ceasefire, which has caused a large number of civilian casualties in recent air strikes. It also deplores the refusal of Hamas to hand over the remaining hostages.

    The EU has called for an immediate return to the full implementation of the ceasefire-hostage release agreement[1]. Israel is bound by international humanitarian law (IHL) and applicable norms of international human rights law (IHRL), including, as an occupying power, the obligation to protect the population under occupation.

    The EU has called on Israel to adhere strictly to the rules and principles of IHL and IHRL governing the use of force and the conduct of hostilities, including humanity, necessity, distinction and proportionality[2].

    The most recent EU-Israel Association Council, held on 24 February 2025, served as institutional framework for political dialogue and cooperation under the EU-Israel Association Agreement.

    At this meeting, the EU also recalled that, pursuant to Article 2 of the Association Agreement, relations between the European Union and Israel must based on respect for human rights and democratic principles[3].

    Furthermore, following the discussion at the meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council on 20 May 2025, the High Representative announced the launch of a review of Israel’s compliance with Article 2 of the Association Agreement[4].

    No decision has yet been taken by the Council on the Commission proposal[5] of 26 March 2025 regarding the extension of the EU-Israel Action Plan.

    • [1] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/viyhc2m4/20250320-european-council-conclusions-en.pdf
    • [2] https://data.consilium.europa.eu/doc/document/ST-6511-2025-INIT/en/pdf
    • [3] https://data.consilium.europa.eu/doc/document/ST-6511-2025-INIT/en/pdf
    • [4] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/meetings/fac/2025/05/20/
    • [5] https://data.consilium.europa.eu/doc/document/ST-7603-2025-INIT/en/pdf

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – Human rights violations in Dubai, Central African Republic and Syria

    Source: European Parliament

    On Thursday, Parliament adopted three emergency resolutions on Dubai, the Central African Republic, and Syria.

    Ryan Cornelius’ case in Dubai

    Parliament calls for the immediate and unconditional release of Ryan Cornelius, a 71-year-old British citizen detained in Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), since 2008. They denounce his inhumane conditions of detention and urge the UAE to abolish the practice of debt-related imprisonment and to respect international human rights standards.

    They also point out that the assets seized in this particular case exceed by far the debt owed and demand that Ryan Cornelius be granted an enforceable right to compensation and other remedies, in accordance with international law. Originally sentenced to 10 years on charges of alleged fraud, Ryan Cornelius’ sentence was extended by another 20 years under Dubai Law 37 of 2009, applied retroactively and in violation of international legal standards.

    MEPs call on the UK government, the EU Special Representative for Human Rights and the EU Delegation to the United Arab Emirates to raise this issue in all bilateral contacts with the authorities and note that the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention has declared this imprisonment illegal, citing lack of due process, forced confessions and refusal of a lawyer.

    The resolution was adopted by 511 votes in favour, 50 against, and 75 abstentions. For more details, the full version will be available here. (10/07/25)

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Breaking News: China to Work with Egypt to Uphold International Trade and Economic Order – Chinese Premier

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    CAIRO, July 10 (Xinhua) — China hopes to work with Egypt to uphold economic globalization and the international trade and economic order, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said in Cairo on Thursday.

    As Li Qiang noted during talks with Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, the two countries should safeguard the common interests of a wide range of developing countries and promote peace and stability in the Middle East and the world as a whole. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Azerbaijani President and Armenian Prime Minister Reaffirm Commitment to Direct Dialogue

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    Baku, July 10 (Xinhua) — Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan held a meeting in Abu Dhabi (United Arab Emirates) on Thursday, during which they reaffirmed their readiness to continue direct dialogue on normalizing bilateral relations, according to a press release from the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry following the talks.

    The two leaders reiterated that direct bilateral negotiations are the most effective format for resolving outstanding issues. They agreed to continue results-oriented dialogue aimed at achieving sustainable and comprehensive peace.

    The negotiations began in an expanded format with the participation of delegations, after which they continued in a one-on-one format.

    I. Aliyev and N. Pashinyan discussed the course of the border delimitation process and instructed the relevant state commissions to intensify practical work. The parties also reaffirmed their commitment to confidence-building measures and regular bilateral contacts.

    They expressed gratitude to UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for organizing the meeting.

    In March of this year, Azerbaijan and Armenia announced that they had completed the approval of the text of the draft peace agreement and the establishment of interstate relations, which gave rise to cautious optimism about the prospects for a final settlement of the long-standing conflict. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Breaking: China looks to optimize trade, expand cooperation with Egypt — Chinese Premier

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    CAIRO, July 10 (Xinhua) — China is committed to working with Egypt to promote the optimization and development of bilateral trade and create more bright spots of cooperation and new economic growth points, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said in Cairo on Thursday.

    As Li Qiang noted during talks with Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, the two countries could expand cooperation in emerging areas such as new energy, electric vehicles, artificial intelligence and the digital economy. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Russian Foreign Minister and US Secretary of State Discuss Bilateral Relations and Global Situation

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    Moscow, July 10 /Xinhua/ — Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on Thursday to discuss bilateral relations and the global situation, the Russian Foreign Ministry reported.

    “In development of the agreements reached by the presidents of Russia and the United States, including during their last telephone conversation on July 3, a thorough comparison of watches was conducted on the entire spectrum of issues on the bilateral agenda and the situation in the world. A substantive and frank exchange of opinions took place on the settlement around Ukraine, the situation around Iran and Syria, as well as a number of other international problems,” the statement says.

    It is noted that the mutual commitment to finding peaceful solutions to conflict situations, restoring Russian-American economic and humanitarian cooperation, and unimpeded contacts between the societies of the two countries, which, in particular, could be facilitated by the resumption of direct air traffic, was confirmed.

    “The constructive and mutually respectful dialogue between the foreign policy departments of Russia and the United States on a growing range of issues of mutual interest will continue,” the Russian Foreign Ministry’s statement emphasized. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Guaranteeing the continuation of UNRWA’s work in Palestinian territories illegally occupied by Israel – E-000431/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    While the full extent of the consequences of the Israeli legislation adopted on 28 October 2024 on UNRWA’s capacity to fulfil its mandate in the occupied Palestinian territory is not yet clear, the EU has recalled[1],[2] its deep concern in this regard, has repeatedly stressed[3],[4],[5] the essential role of UNRWA, which provides crucial support to the civilian population in both Gaza and the wider region, and has condemned any attempt to obstruct it. Continued implementation of the UNRWA Action Plan is key[6],[7],[8].

    The EU has deplored the breakdown of the ceasefire in Gaza, which has caused a large number of civilian casualties in recent air strikes. It has called for an immediate return to the full implementation of the ceasefire-hostage release agreement, and stressed the importance of unimpeded access and sustained distribution of humanitarian assistance at scale into and throughout Gaza[9].

    Since 7 October 2023, the EU and its Member States working as Team Europe have acted quickly to mobilise over EUR 1.16 billion in humanitarian assistance, which has been channelled through humanitarian partners on the ground (international and local humanitarian organisations).

    In addition, the EU has been providing in-kind assistance by land, air and sea. As of 5 February 2025, over 4 000 metric tonnes of humanitarian cargo were supplied by humanitarian partners, EU-owned stockpile items, and donations from Member States[10].

    Concerning the EU-Israel Association Agreement, the Council recalls its reply to Written Question E-001357/2024. The European Union and Israel held the thirteenth meeting of their Association Council on 24 February 2025 in Brussels.

    The parties engaged in a political dialogue, focusing on the conflict in Gaza and Israeli-Palestinian relations, regional issues including Iran, and global issues.

    The discussion also covered EU-Israel bilateral relations. The European Union presented its position[11], including that, pursuant to Article 2 of the Association Agreement, relations between the Parties, as well as all the provisions of the Agreement itself, are to be based on respect for human rights and democratic principles, which guide their internal and international policy and are an essential element of the Association Agreement.

    As for further engagement with the parties concerned, it may also be noted that the first ever High-level Dialogue meeting between the European Union and the Palestinian Authority took place on 14 April 2025.

    The European Commission announced its proposal for a multiannual Comprehensive Support Programme worth up to EUR 1.6 billion, to foster Palestinian recovery and resilience.

    • [1] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/viyhc2m4/20250320-european-council-conclusions-en.pdf
    • [2] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/jhlenhaj/euco-conclusions-19122024-en.pdf
    • [3] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/jhlenhaj/euco-conclusions-19122024-en.pdf
    • [4] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/2pebccz2/20241017-euco-conclusions-en.pdf
    • [5] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/qa3lblga/euco-conclusions-27062024-en.pdf
    • [6] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/jhlenhaj/euco-conclusions-19122024-en.pdf
    • [7] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/2pebccz2/20241017-euco-conclusions-en.pdf
    • [8] https://www.unrwa.org/sites/default/files/content/resources/ist_012025_progressreport_01202025.pdf
    • [9] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2025/03/20/european-council-conclusions-on-middle-east-oceans-and-multilateralism/?utm_source=brevo&utm_campaign=AUTOMATED%20-%20Alert%20-%20Newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_id=3318
    • [10] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/policies/eu-humanitarian-support-to-palestinians/
    • [11] https//data.consilium.europa.eu/doc/document/ST-6511-2025-INIT/en/pdf

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Lancaster House 2.0: Declaration on Modernising UK-French Defence and Security Cooperation

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Lancaster House 2.0: Declaration on Modernising UK-French Defence and Security Cooperation

    Declaration on Modernising UK-French Defence and Security Cooperation.

    The UK and France, as Europe’s only nuclear powers and leading militaries, share a unique responsibility for European and international defence and security. Our two nations represent nearly 40% of the defence budget of European Allies, and more than 50% of European spending on research and technology.

    Since the Chequers Declaration in 1995, successive generations of leaders have recognised the intertwined nature of our vital interests, affirming that a threat to one would represent a threat against the other. In 2010, through the Lancaster House Treaties, our nations formalised this shared cooperation to address the challenges of that era: expeditionary warfare and counterterrorism.

    Fifteen years later, the threats we face have changed fundamentally with state-on-state conflict rising globally and, since Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine, the return of full-scale war to Europe. We have a shared responsibility to strengthen Euro-Atlantic security and recall, in this regard, the critical deterrence that NATO provides. We reaffirm the importance of intensifying our efforts in support of NATO and acting jointly within it.  We also recognise the value of a stronger and more capable European defence that contributes positively to transatlantic and global security and is complementary to, and interoperable with, NATO. In this regard, we underline that the European Union remains a unique and essential partner for NATO. We also welcome the progress we have made on the UK-EU Security Defence Partnership in bringing together our shared interests in protecting the continent.

    The UK and France share the same understanding of the threats we face. The return of conventional warfighting at scale in Europe and beyond, strategic competition on the global stage, combined with hostile state activity, rapid expansion in hybrid warfare and disinformation, create a febrile and dangerous international order. States are increasingly using hybrid tactics against us, either directly or using proxies, to undermine our national security and our democracies. 

    The UK and France are willing and able to act together, decisively, to protect our shared interests, allies, partners in Europe and beyond, values and, fundamentally, our democratic way of life. We must be ready and willing to oppose our adversaries across the full spectrum of national security, requiring a new, whole of society and government approach. We are resolved to deepen and expand our partnership to jointly deter and respond to the heightened challenge these evolving threats pose including cyber, sabotage, espionage, malign use of artificial intelligence and foreign information manipulation and interference. This can only be achieved by the further integration of our Military, National Security, Diplomatic, Intelligence and Economic levers.

    It is in this context that we, as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and President of the French Republic, have decided to reboot, modernise and build upon our bilateral defence and security relationship, including under the Lancaster House Treaties, in order to effect a generational shift in both our bilateral cooperation and our joint contribution to the defence of Europe, its citizens and of its interests. Today, we have declared our intent to carry out a series of ambitious projects and new areas of collaboration that will underpin our defence and security relationship for the next fifteen years and beyond.

    1. Deepening our longstanding and resolute commitment to cooperation between our independent nuclear deterrents by:

    a. Setting out our contribution to the defence of European partners and NATO Allies, and stating that whilst our nuclear forces are independent, they can be coordinated, as set out in the Northwood Declaration;

    b. Enhancing mutual understanding of respective nuclear deterrence policies, doctrine and plans, and strengthening our ability to make coordinated decisions in peace time and in crisis;

    c. Expanding cooperation on nuclear research (as initiated since 2010) including by making greater use of the facilities in each other’s countries;

    d. Coordinating more closely to uphold and reinforce the international non-proliferation architecture; and

    e. Establishing a UK-France Nuclear Steering Group to provide political direction for this cooperation, led by the Presidency of the French Republic and the Cabinet Office to coordinate across policy, capability and operations.

    2. Launch the Combined Joint Force – overhauling the existing Combined Joint Expeditionary Force to refocus it on the Euro-Atlantic and warfighting at scale to deter, placing it on an operational footing for the first time by endeavouring to:

    a. Significantly increase the declared Combined Joint Force (CJF) capacity, up to fivefold, ensuring the ability to plan and command Combined Corps Capability (the highest level of fielded forces in our armies). This Corp can provide the Land component of a broader joint force combining all military functions, as part of NATO or bilaterally. The CJF will facilitate the deployment of a force fully interoperable with NATO and available as the Alliance’s Strategic Reserve; this is a critical step towards the UK and France providing two fully interoperable Strategic Reserve Corps to NATO, enabled by the CJF.

    b. Adopt new missions, enabling the CJF to conduct activity in the Euro-Atlantic to deter our adversaries and reassure our Allies and partners, while also being prepared to compete with our adversaries further afield if needed.

    c. Establish a mechanism to share, coordinate and synchronise military activity and the deployment of UK and French forces globally, ensuring we are providing the most effective deterrence posture.

    d. Establish a dedicated cell to operationalise the CJF, overseeing military strategic coordination and planning through to operational coordination.

    e. Maintain the ability for the CJF to integrate additional allies and partners under UK-French leadership and to ensure the CJF is complementary to NATO.

    f. Use the CJF structures to underpin the Coalition of the Willing for Ukraine. The force will provide the joint planning framework to cohere the Coalition, ensure joint operational and strategic messaging. It will provide Coalition leadership and command and control for the planning and operational deployment of the Coalition covering all five domains, preparing for the operational deployment of the CJF in the event of a ceasefire – which can be supported by allies.

    3. Embark upon an ‘Entente Industrielle’ to enhance capability and industrial co-operation, bringing our defence industries and militaries closer than ever before to strengthen NATO, by endeavouring to:

    a. Launch the development phase of the Future Cruise and Anti-Ship Weapon (FC/ASW) programme to provide the next generation of long-range, highly survivable Deep Strike Missiles.

    b. Jointly develop the next generation of beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles for our fighter jets, while also extending the Meteor capability, launching a joint study with industry to inform our future development of its successor.

    c. Acquire new SCALP & Storm Shadow missiles, following their successful use by Ukraine, upgrading UK and French production lines to bolster national stockpiles to deter our adversaries.

    d. Establish a new, joint Complex Weapons Portfolio Office, embedded with OCCAR, through which we will deliver our joint projects within OCCAR, starting with SCALP & Storm Shadow acquisition and also working closely with MBDA to identify the opportunities from our investments and to reduce duplication, working closely with MBDA, starting with studies on Air Dominance and Cooperative Strike future capabilities.

    e. Focus greater efforts on integrated air and missile defence (IAMD) in our capability relationship, including (but not limited to) C-UAS and counter-hypersonic capabilities, drawing especially from the Aster family increments, including potentially SAMP/T NG and CAMM.

    f. Continue to work closely on current and future long range strike capabilities through the European Long Range Strike Approach (ELSA initiative). Along with our ELSA allies (amongst them Germany), we will remain open to expanding this cooperation to extended-range deep strike capability should military requirements and industrial capacity align. We will be carefully examining, with our defence industries, the capability opportunities this presents.

    g Develop a Directed Energy Weapons partnership, sharing information, collaborating on research and projects of shared interest, and exploring industry collaboration on radiofrequency weapons.

    h. Collaborate on developing algorithms for synchronised missile and drone strikes using artificial intelligence and machine learning, to build our future interoperability.

    i. Explore a combat air interoperability roadmap, including potential collaboration on armaments, to support the connectivity and interoperability of our current and future combat air forces and their contribution to European and NATO air superiority.

    j. Commit to align standards for weapons safety and testing, to bring operational benefits and save time and money in our joint programmes.

    k. Work closely together on wider export campaigns for UK-French capabilities and establishing a new joint team, with an initial focus on supporting the export of A400M (including through the set up of a NATO High Visibility Project) and identifying further concrete areas for joint export promotion.

    l. Recognising the importance of improving European defence industrial resilience, the UK and France will enhance reciprocal market access in defence and security.

    4.  Develop new cooperation in every domain to enhance military interoperability and support NATO, driven by annual meetings of our Joint Chiefs. This will include:

    a. Developing a new Bilateral Vision Statement between the armies and committing to enduring support to NATO through the CJF. This represents operational interoperability at the highest level of fielded forces in our armies, enhancing British and French joint commitments and opportunities offered through the Forward Land Forces in Estonia.

    b. Driving naval interoperability in support of warfighting, notably on information, data and communications, leveraging the opportunities of next generation digital architectures, deepening cooperation on maritime air defence, and continuing to coordinate Carrier Strike Group activity. Additionally, expanding cooperation on global maritime domain awareness to better deter maritime hybrid threats, including to critical undersea infrastructure and sanctions circumvention by the Russian Shadow Fleet, with an initial focus on the Channel and the Atlantic. Finally, facilitating mutual access support facilities for naval aircraft and warships.

    c. Increasing the complexity of combined Air Defence exercises, cooperating on responses to High-Altitude threats, enhancing cooperation in the development of Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) capabilities, particularly in the integration of Command And Control (C2) systems. Pursuing a joint ambition to develop the A400M into a multi-mission platform, incorporating C2, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) and potential strike capabilities. Aiming to synchronise fast jet pilot training to enhance interoperability and efficiency.

    d. Enabling interoperability across the space domain, including satellite communications capabilities, developing cooperation and potential joint capability in space control, space-based ISR systems, and Low Earth Orbit satellites. We will jointly spearhead closer operational space coordination and deliver space support to bolster Euro-Atlantic security operations.

    e. Sharing best practice in Cyber, with the UK providing support to the French establishment of a Cyber Training Academy, and France supporting the establishment of the UK’s new Cyber & Electromagnetic Command. Jointly galvanising wider NATO Cyber exercise activity, whilst fusing UK-French operational cooperation to act amongst Allies as European leaders in the domain.

    5. Reinforce the UK-France integrated defence and security partnership to deter and respond to the full spectrum of threats, by endeavouring to:

    a. Work together to make the fullest possible use of the UK-EU Security and Defence Partnership. Noting the shared UK and EU commitment to explore possible mutual involvement in respective defence initiatives, including within the Security Action For Europe (SAFE) instrument, in accordance with the respective legal frameworks, the UK and France will explore possibilities for mutually beneficial enhanced cooperation.

    b. Strengthen our defence and security policy coordination and cooperation on key areas for Euro-Atlantic security (Ukraine, NATO, the future of Euro-Atlantic security) and reasserting the unique contribution of our bilateral partnership to European and global security.

    c. Exploit areas of policy dialogue and cooperation in countering hybrid threats, Space, Cyber and AI – including through fostering links between national agencies, exchanging doctrines and responsible practices.

    d. Launch a new Global Maritime Security Dialogue to cohere our strategic approaches to deterring threats to our shared maritime interests.

    e. Establishing a dialogue on Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief to build on our existing frameworks and scope future mutual assistance arrangements.

    f. Coordinate and align resources to enhance regional resilience, including on maritime security, in the Indo-Pacific in the medium-term and, in accordance with our respective international obligations, provide for reciprocal base access to facilities, including Réunion Island, New Caledonia and French Polynesia.

    g. Bring together our intelligence, law enforcement and policy expertise across the overt and covert environments to deter, counter and respond to the full range of hybrid threats including physical threats to people, sabotage and foreign interference, including Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference (FIMI), cyber and espionage.  Jointly pursuing attributions and coordinating on sanctions, as well as exploring how we can further lead joint operational efforts to combat the hybrid threats. We will continue our cooperation in NATO, G7 and other multilateral forums.

    h. Further strengthen our cooperation to counter FIMI, to raise the costs for states seeking to undermine our security and democratic institutions. We will pursue the interoperability of our systems to analyse FIMI and increase efforts to jointly respond to it, including through exposure, sanctions and strategic communication. We will continue working together to build collective responses to FIMI in multilateral fora.

    i. Build on the UK-French Pall Mall Process and the Paris Call for Trust and Security in Cyberspace, to tackle the threat posed by the proliferation of commercial cyber intrusion capabilities and address the shared challenges we face in cyberspace, and increase the cost to our adversaries through deterrence, sanctions and attributions.

    j. Engage in regular technical exchanges and proactively exploring joint research opportunities to harness the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence and emerging technologies, while addressing associated national security challenges. The UK and France are uniquely placed to lead international efforts and response capabilities.

    k. Jointly maximise our impact against the highest-threat terrorist groups. Internationally, we will deepen our cooperation with Syria, and will look to enhance our coordination against the expanding terrorist threat in sub-Saharan Africa and central Asia. Domestically, we will build resilience against terrorist threats to critical infrastructure, including transport connections between our countries.

    6. Enhance communications and institutional exchanges across our two systems, as an enabler to our strengthened partnership across the entirety of defence and national security, by endeavouring to:

    a. Develop a new joint UK-France cross government secure communication system.

    b. Expand people and training links between the UK and French Militaries, optimising our networks of exchange and liaison officers, with a focus on junior officer exchanges, to develop a shared strategic culture in the next generation of military leaders across all three services.

    c. Continue to enable the constant exchange of national security and defence personnel and their families, to constantly deepen and forge our relationship for future generations and to ensure our Armed Forces have the conditions they need to perform effectively, and that they, and their family members, do not experience disadvantages as a result of their service. This might include reciprocal access to rights to work and related facilitations for defence personnel and their household members serving in each other’s countries.

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK-France Leaders Declaration

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    UK-France Leaders Declaration

    The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and the President of the French Republic met today in Downing Street for the 37th UK-France Summit.

    The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and the President of the French Republic met today in Downing Street for the 37th UK-France Summit.

    The United Kingdom and France share a commitment to peace, democracy, the rule of law, the rules-based international order, and human rights. In an international context in which these values are increasingly jeopardised, France and the United Kingdom share a responsibility to stand up for these aims and values, as major European countries, permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, major world economies, and open democracies. Our relationship and cooperation are fundamental.

    Our two countries share a unique friendship, an intertwined history and profound connections between our people, businesses, and communities. As we open a new chapter in our bilateral and European ties, also building on the outcome of the first EU-UK Summit held in May 2025, we want to make our people safer and more secure, champion fair and lasting peace worldwide, deepen our defence and security collaboration, support competitiveness and growth for our economies, providing jobs, and prosperity to our countries.

    Foreign Policy/Global Issues

    We reaffirm our determination to ensure Russia does not prevail in its illegal war of aggression, as well as our commitment to lasting support to Ukraine, including security assurances that safeguard its independence and sovereignty. Today we convened the Coalition of the Willing bringing together more than thirty nations committed to Ukraine’s long-term security. We welcomed the development of mature operational plans to deploy a reassurance force once hostilities have ceased, and to help secure Ukraine’s skies and seas and regenerate Ukraine’s armed forces. We have agreed to launch a Counter-Shadow Fleet Partnership to crack down on dangerous Russian-backed vessels in the Channel, reduce Russian oil revenues via these vessels, and safeguard our maritime security. Alongside this, we commit to seeking a lowering of the crude oil price cap, further depriving Russia of the oil revenues it uses to fund its barbaric war. We will strengthen our joint efforts to prevent the supplying of dual-use components and weapons to Russia by third countries’ entities. We reiterate our readiness to step up pressure on Russia as it refuses to commit to peace. We are committed to defending democracy and stability in the wider European neighbourhood and have agreed to work together on new support to strengthen resilience in the Western Balkans and Moldova. We welcome the conclusion of the negotiations on a peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan, and urge the parties to sign this agreement as soon as possible

    We reaffirm our determination that Iran can never have a nuclear weapon. We will continue our cooperation, including in the E3 format with Germany, working with the US to ensure a robust deal on Iran’s nuclear programme that takes into account our shared security interests. We will continue to advocate for the resumption of Iran’s full cooperation with the IAEA. We are committed to addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, pushing for an immediate ceasefire, and the release of all remaining hostages. We reaffirm our commitment to recognising a Palestinian state, as a contribution to a peace process. We will work together to support its development and the realisation of a Two-State Solution. We are also stepping up our coordination on security and humanitarian challenges in support of wider regional stability in Syria and Lebanon.

    Beyond Europe, we share a responsibility and resolve to defend our values and interests. As demonstrated by the actions of Russia’s enablers, our security is inextricably linked to the Indo-Pacific. We will strengthen our coordination and work together for a free, open, and sovereign Indo-Pacific through new joint maritime security training, reciprocal base access, and joint support to regional organisations. We will launch a Global Maritime Security Dialogue. We jointly reaffirm our commitment to peace and stability in the Korean peninsula, in the South and East China Seas, and in the Taiwan Strait, where we call for the peaceful resolution of cross-Strait issues. We will keep coordinating efforts and initiatives to address peace and security challenges in Africa and their humanitarian consequences, in particular regarding Sudan and the Great Lakes.

    We will continue to act through the European Political Community to respond to common security challenges, including irregular migration, and promoting stability and democratic resilience, competitive and economic growth throughout the continent.

    We share a commitment to strengthening the multilateral system and working together for reform across the three pillars of the UN. We have today agreed to expand our cooperation on humanitarian disaster preparation and responses, and to coordinate our work on global issues such as climate change, poverty and promotion of sexual and reproductive health rights. We support the next phase of the International Advisory Panel on Biodiversity Credits by each committing seed funding to unlock philanthropic finance and sustainable nature-positive outcomes.

    Defence And Security

    The return of conventional warfighting at scale in Europe, combined with hostile state actors, hybrid warfare and disinformation, requires a new, whole of society and government approach. As Europe’s two nuclear powers and leading militaries, we share responsibility for the continent’s defence and security. We are united in the face of profound security threats and challenges, in particular the immediate and pressing threat posed by Russia to Euro-Atlantic security.

    Today we announced Lancaster House 2.0 to modernise our cooperation. Through this we agree to deepen and broaden our unique defence and security partnership enshrined in the 2010 Lancaster House Treaties, a core pillar of security in Europe, complementing our cooperation in NATO and reinforcing Europe’s contribution to it, as well as the UK-EU Security and Defence Partnership.

    Deepening our longstanding and resolute commitment to cooperation of our independent nuclear deterrents, we have agreed to set out, in a specific statement, our contribution to the defence of European partners and NATO allies, and that whilst our nuclear forces are independent, they can be coordinated. We have decided to establish a UK-France Nuclear Steering Group that will coordinate policy, capability and operation.

    We will launch the Combined Joint Force, to build a shared capability of sufficient scale for warfighting, and ready to operate in all domains, including space and cyber, in the defence of Europe. This evolution of the existing Combined Joint Expeditionary Force will continue to be at the forefront of Coalition of the Willing planning. We have also agreed the path for new military capability projects, including the next generation of our Deep Strike and Air-to-Air missiles.

    We will deepen our cooperation on cyber issues, tackling the proliferation and irresponsible use of commercial hacking capabilities. We will address emerging threats, including in the hybrid domain, whilst harnessing the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence and emerging technologies. We will maximise our impact against the highest-threat terrorist groups including deepening our counter-terrorism cooperation in Syria.

    We are committed to redoubling our collaboration to ensure the Euro-Atlantic security architecture remains fit for purpose, with European allies both shouldering their existing obligations and fully involved in shaping any new arrangements. We will intensify our cooperation with Germany and other partners to this end.

    Irregular Migration

    The cruelty of organised gangs who smuggle individuals across the Channel at great risk to life blights both our societies. Today, we announce a strengthening of our cooperation to tackle illegal Channel crossings, focused on reducing the risk to life at sea, breaking the criminal gang networks through law enforcement cooperation, and working upstream to tackle the root causes and smuggling networks.

    We continue to work together on novel and innovative approaches to intercept boats, exemplified by the ongoing French Maritime Review supporting enhanced Maritime co-operation, to ensure we adapt as the criminal gangs change their approach. We seek to use all the tools at our disposal, including both existing and new sanctions, to tackle people smuggling, trafficking, and organised immigration crime. In parallel, the United Kingdom is intensifying its efforts to reform its domestic asylum system, deliver on increasing returns and tackle illegal working.

    France and the UK have agreed to trial a pilot to deter illegal journeys across Europe to the UK and dangerous small boat crossings while saving lives, as an innovative approach to break the business model of organised gangs. It will provide for the readmission of migrants directly to France after an illegal journey by small boat to the United Kingdom and will also offer a reciprocal legal route to the UK for migrants in France, with a principle of equivalence between the number of readmissions to France and the number of legal admissions to the UK. The agreement will be finalised and signed subject to completing prior legal scrutiny in full transparency and understanding with the Commission and EU Member states as this initiative is related to an EU external border, and implemented within a few weeks, subject to the above processes, with real-time monitoring. We are pursuing an ambitious approach that complements wider European cooperation on irregular migration, including working together to prevent irregular Channel crossings within the Common Understanding agreed at the UK-EU Summit on 19 May.

    In this context, building on the Sandhurst Agreement, the United Kingdom reaffirms its commitment to fund Maritime action, increased law enforcement response onshore and inland, alongside new joint upstream working to tackle the issue at source and in transit, through the existing financial agreement through to March 2026, and through the finalisation of a new three year cycle (2026-2029) as soon as possible.

    Growth

    We will ensure continued cooperation and leadership on economic sectors of the future, leading to more growth, skills, and high-quality jobs for our people. This collaboration will make us stronger, remove barriers, and boost our collective resilience and cooperation on economic security, including on critical minerals. We will lead Europe on safely harnessing AI to the benefit of our people and economies, partnering our supercomputers and incubators, and combining the forces of our world-leading universities and research.

    We are committed to protecting our Critical National Infrastructure that underpins our thriving economies. Satellite connectivity is strategically important to Europe’s security and resilience and the UK’s investment in the Eutelsat Group is a demonstration of our commitment to this important technology, alongside the French Government and other existing shareholders. The UK will thus join, prorated to its current stake, the capital increase led by the French State and other existing shareholders of Eutelsat announced on June 19 – taking the total amount of capital raised to €1.5 billion. In the context of European Space Projects, we welcome UK suppliers bidding for supply chain commercial contracts when conditions are met. We will also work towards a resilient terrestrial alternative to Global Navigation Satellite Systems.

    Together, we will lead the way for Europe’s transition to net zero, creating the green jobs of the future and securing affordable energy supplies for our people. Today we reassert our resolve to diversify civil nuclear supply chains from Russia, upskill our nuclear workforces, and manage a responsible nuclear legacy. We welcome the confirmation by EDF of a 12.5% stake in Sizewell C post Financial Close and the proposed issuance of a €6 billion/£5 billion debt guarantee facility to Sizewell C from Bpifrance Assurance export.

    Today, we have agreed that our regulators will move forward in assessing interconnection projects under proportionately-agreed cost and revenue sharing arrangements between beneficiaries, aiming at delivering 1GW further interconnection by 2035. The delivery of further interconnection will be considered in line with national strategic plans. We will continue to work together on key technologies, including offshore wind, carbon capture, usage and storage, and hydrogen.

    We agree to deepen our collaboration on transport, particularly across the Channel, seeking ways to support decarbonisation, protect maritime workers’ pay and conditions, and support growth in the international rail sector. We also welcome the newly-adopted full bilateral framework on the Channel Tunnel, supporting the continued flow of passengers and goods.

    People-to-People

    We are delighted to announce an exceptional cultural partnership with the unprecedented loan of the Bayeux Tapestry to the UK, for an exhibition in the British Museum between September 2026 and July 2027, and the loan of the Sutton Hoo Treasures among other masterpieces from the British Museum, for exhibitions in the Museums of Rouen and Caen, recalling the deep historical ties between our two countries. This exchange will feature as part of the 2027 European Year of the Normans which will celebrate the millennium of William the Conqueror, through cooperation, cultural and educational activities that will recall the strength of our links, past, present, and future. We will celebrate artistic, educational, and community-driven activity through events and initiatives that will support our creative industries. We will also work together to celebrate the 2027 Grand Départ of the Tour de France from the UK.

    We welcome the decision by the French government to facilitate the recognition by local authorities of UK blue badges throughout France for disabled drivers. We will expand connections between UK and French schools, supported by an extension of the arrangements we have made to facilitate school trips in both directions. We will maintain our working relationships on the introduction of the Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES) within the agreed EU framework and timetable to assure security and fluidity across our common border crossing points. Finally, we welcome further constructive exchanges between our Parliaments.

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Superman: James Gunn’s prolonged punch-fest falls flat

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Laura Crossley, Senior Lecturer in Film, Bournemouth University

    The first two superhero movies of the year examined the morality of power and politics (Captain America: Brave New World) and mental health and personal accountability (Thunderbolts*) in thoughtful and often nuanced ways. It is rather depressing, then, that the third act of Superman is largely a prolonged CGI punch-fest that lacks any narrative or visual vigour to make it interesting.

    There is a lot riding on the success of the DC Universe (DCU), now under the creative stewardship of director James Gunn and producer James Safran. After the varied fortunes of the DC Extended Universe (DCEU), this iteration of Superman marks a reboot of DC properties and is the introductory instalment of the first phase, or “chapter” as they are being called, with the subtitle Gods and Monsters.

    The films also marks a shift from the “Snyderverse” – the series of interconnected films made under the oversight of director Zack Snyder – which were characterised by the darkness of both their themes and their aesthetics.

    This darkness, and the attendant moral ambiguity, of the Snyderverse has been replaced by a more optimistic tone. This new Superman film is more simplistic and clear-cut, with good versus bad and a bright, comic-book design.

    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.

    Anyone familiar with Gunn’s previous superhero offerings (The Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy; The Suicide Squad) will recognise much of the tone and the look. This is very much the Superman movie that Gunn wants to make. And therein lies part of the problem.

    As the opening film of chapter one, this effectively sets the tone for all that is to come across the DCU. But that raises the question of how Gunn’s overall approach will work with future properties that will have (or should have) very different styles, narrative themes and concerns.

    This film is deliberately not an origin story. We meet Superman (David Corenswet), bloodied and battered after having lost an off-screen fight. He’s already an established superhero in a world accustomed to them after approximately 300 years of “metahumans” – as the opening exposition dump helpfully informs us.

    Superman then returns to the icy Fortress of Solitude, complete with robot staff and adorable CGI super-dog, Krypto. We are, in effect, entering the middle of the story, with Superman’s dual identity as Clark Kent already known to his girlfriend Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan).

    The pair have a fun, palpable chemistry. In an early stand-out scene, Lois, in journalist mode, grills Clark/Superman on the finer points of superhero accountability and responsibility after he single-handedly – and without any form of legal jurisdiction – stops a war between the fictitious countries of Boravia (eastern European, evil) and Jahanipur (a south-east Asian/Middle Eastern mash-up in which the people are impoverished and entirely agency-free), just before the movie begins. Sadly, these valid and deeply relevant questions remain unexplored for the rest of the film.

    The trailer for Superman.

    Brosnahan is a spiky, intelligent and self-assured Lois Lane who is not given enough to do, partly because this “starting in the middle” approach robs her relationship with Clark/Superman of any real tension and complexity. But also because the film is so overstuffed that there is little room for any meaningful character development.

    What we do have is incoherent plotting, clunky dialogue and exposition and too many characters who are too thinly drawn.

    The gang’s back together

    Corenswet is a fine Superman, commandingly heroic and believably vulnerable when required. However, there is not much opportunity for him to explore his Clark Kent alter-ego before he is in full superhero mode, thereby denying the character time to establish the humanity that is core to Superman’s personality.

    Lex Luthor (Nicholas Holt), the quintessential Superman villain, is supposed to be brilliant but here is rendered more as an Elon Musk-like figure with hints of Trump. He’s a megalomaniac with a populist touch with motivations that are so unclear as to be nonsensical.

    We also get members of the Justice Gang, including a horribly bewigged Nathan Fillion as Green Lantern, Hawkgirl (Isabela Merced) and Mister Terrific (Edi Gathegi).

    Gathegi steals almost the entire movie with a charismatic, laid-back turn that is crying out for his own standalone entry. Mister Terrific gets the movie’s most fun set piece: a single-handed fight against multiple goons choreographed to an upbeat pop soundtrack that is straight out of the James Gunn playbook.

    As is the Justice Gang’s fight against an inter dimensional giant squid, which plays out as the comedic backdrop visible through a window during a pivotal scene with Lois Lane, and in which a depressed Superman takes no part. Any moments of seriousness are immediately undercut by on the nose and often cheap jokes.

    The lack of narrative focus and character development results in a story that does not give us any tangible reasons to care about these characters beyond the fact that they are already well-established cultural icons. The lack of scaffolding means that when we reach what should be the emotional turning points, there is no heft to these moments.

    The phoney war between Boravia and Jahanipur also provides problematic optics. The people of Jahanipur are an anonymous mass of peasants armed only with sticks who get a single word of dialogue shared between them (“Superman!”). They are at the mercy of their warlike neighbours in Boravia, whose evil is made evident through the grotesque physicality of their leader (Zlatko Buric).

    This plot device seems to be making a passing reference to both the war in Ukraine and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, without having anything of value to say about either. The situation is resolved by the arrival of the American Justice Gang (because all metahumans are exclusively based in America, apparently) and then we’re on to the next joke.

    In this Superman reboot, the humanity of the character is largely lost, something we are told about rather than see. This is ironic given that truth, justice and humanity are supposed to be the guiding principles of the Superman story.

    Laura Crossley does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Superman: James Gunn’s prolonged punch-fest falls flat – https://theconversation.com/superman-james-gunns-prolonged-punch-fest-falls-flat-260940

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UN calls for reversal of US sanctions on Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese

    Source: United Nations 2

    They’re calling for the decision to be reversed, warning it could undermine the wider international human rights system.

    The sanctions were announced by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Wednesday under a Presidential Executive Order.

    Mr. Rubio alleged that Ms. Albanese had “directly engaged with the International Criminal Court (ICC) in efforts to investigate, arrest, detain, or prosecute nationals of the United States or Israel, without the consent of those two countries,” which he called a “gross infringement” on national sovereignty.

    The US and Israel are not parties to the Rome Statute, the international treaty that established the ICC.

    Call for reversal

    In a statement issued on Thursday, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk called for the “prompt reversal” of the sanctions against the Human Rights Council-appointed Special Rapporteur “in response to work she has undertaken under the mandate” she is tasked with.

    “Even in face of fierce disagreement, UN Member States should engage substantively and constructively, rather than resort to punitive measures,” he said.

    The UN rights chief also called for an end to attacks and threats against mandate holders appointed by the council, as well as key institutions like the ICC.

    “The solution is not less, but more, debate and dialogue on the very real human rights concerns they address,” Mr. Türk urged.

    Cooperation, not reprisal

    Jürg Lauber, President of the UN Human Rights Council, also voiced regret over the punitive move by the US.

    In a statement, he highlighted that Special Rapporteurs “are an essential instrument” in fulfilling the Council’s mandate and urged all nations to “fully cooperate” with them.

    “I call on all UN Member States…to refrain from any acts of intimidation or reprisal against them,” he said.

    Independent Special Rapporteurs

    Special Rapporteurs are appointed under what is known as the Special Procedures of the Human Rights Council.

    They are independent experts appointed to monitor and report on human rights issues worldwide. These experts serve in their personal capacity, are not UN staff and receive no financial remuneration for their work.

    They regularly report to the Geneva-based council as well as to the UN General Assembly in New York.

    In addition to the mandate on the occupied Palestinian territory, mandates exist to monitor human rights in countries such as Iran, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea and Afghanistan. In all there are 46 thematic and 14 different country-based mandates.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Coalition of the Willing headquarters as leaders step up support for Ukraine’s immediate flight

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    New Coalition of the Willing headquarters as leaders step up support for Ukraine’s immediate flight

    The Coalition of the Willing will have a new permanent headquarters in Paris, with plans in place for a future coordination cell in Kyiv, as command structures for the future reassurance force are finalised.

    The Coalition of the Willing will have a new permanent headquarters in Paris, with plans in place for a future coordination cell in Kyiv, as command structures for the future reassurance force are finalised. 

    It comes after leaders from the Coalition of the Willing met virtually today, with the Prime Minister and President Macron joining from the UK’s Permanent Joint Headquarters in Northwood and President Zelenskyy, Prime Minister Meloni and other leaders joining from the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome to discuss the latest planning and our wider efforts to support Ukraine.

    For the first time, representatives of the United States, including Special Presidential Envoy, General Keith Kellogg, Senator Lindsey Graham and Senator Richard Blumenthal, joined the meeting.

    Military chiefs updated on the significant progress made, including the completion of reconnaissance visits to Ukraine, to better understand how a post-ceasefire force could best help regenerate the strength and firepower of Ukrainian forces and provide reassurance in the years to come.

    Following agreement on command structures for the force, leaders agreed that planning should continue on an enduring, business as usual footing, to ensure that a force can deploy in the days following the cessation of hostilities.

    That will include a 3-star multi-national operational headquarters in Paris, led by the UK and France, to oversee all tactical and operational arrangements.

    The headquarters, which will rotate to London after the first 12 months, will allow partners to contribute forces flexibly and deploy military teams for different operational strands of work.

    When the force deploys, a co-ordination cell, headed up by a UK 2-star military officer will also be set up in Kyiv.

    Following the cessation of hostilities, the force is expected to:

    • Regenerate land forces: providing logistic, armament and training experts to assist with the regeneration and reconstitution of Ukraine’s land forces.
    • Secure Ukraine’s skies: The Coalition will provide safe skies alongside Ukraine’s Air Force using Coalition aircraft to deliver Air Policing, reassuring the Ukrainian population and establishing the conditions for normal international air travel to re-commence. 
    • Support safer seas: The existing Black Sea Task Force of Turkey, Romania and Bulgaria will be bolstered by additional specialist staff to accelerate the clearance of mines from the Black Sea and ensure safe and secure maritime access for all vessels transiting to and from Ukraine ports. 

    During the meeting, leaders condemned President Putin’s brutal attacks on Ukrainian cities and disregard for peace talks and reaffirmed their determination to continue applying pressure on Putin to stop his illegal attacks and engage meaningfully in negotiations. They also welcomed progress made at the Ukraine Recovery Conference to help Ukraine grow its economy and protect its infrastructure against Russia’s attacks. 

    They agreed their priority effort must be to focus on Ukraine’s immediate defence in the face of relentless Russian attacks on critical national infrastructure and civilians.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

    Supporting Ukraine is not just the right thing to do, it’s essential for delivering security at home. That is why the Coalition of the Willing is ensuring we have a future force that can deploy following a ceasefire to deter Russian aggression for years to come.

    But as we continue to prepare for peace, our focus must also be on making it happen. So, alongside our partners, in the coming days and weeks, we will step up our support to keep Ukraine in the fight now, increasing pressure on Putin through crippling sanctions and ensuring Ukraine’s Armed Forces have the equipment they need to defend their sovereign territory.

    I am clear that the more we do to counter Russia’s aggression, the safer we will keep the British people, our allies and the Euro-Atlantic area.

    President Putin has made it clear with his barbaric missile strikes that he is not ready for peace – underscoring the need for the international priority to be to strengthen Ukraine in the fight now.

    Despite this, Coalition of the Willing members have been steadfast about their commitment to making sure they are ready to support Ukraine to deter future Russian attacks when the conditions for peace are right. 

    The ‘Multinational Force Ukraine’ will bolster Ukraine’s ability to return to peace and stability by supporting the regeneration of Ukraine’s own forces. Strong Ukrainian armed forces is the best way to deter Russia – and ensure the country is able to rebuild a thriving economy and attract international investment.

    The military plan comes after military chiefs met in Paris on Monday to agree the strategy for the force and coordinate plans with the EU, NATO and the US and more than 200 planners from 30 international partners.

    Leaders have now met six times to further planning and political support for the plans. The meeting comes after Ukraine’s friends and partners pledged €40bn of military support for the country in 2025 at the NATO Summit last month.

    This year, the UK will contribute £4.5 billion of military support to Ukraine – more than ever before, as well as launching a new landmark partnership share battlefield technology.

    That agreement, reached last month, will boost Ukraine’s drone production capacity and link the UK’s defence industry with the cutting-edge technology being developed on the front lines in Ukraine.

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China ready to deepen cooperation with Egypt within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative – Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China /more details/

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    CAIRO, July 10 (Xinhua) — China is willing to strengthen cooperation with Egypt under the Belt and Road Initiative in areas including economy, trade, finance, manufacturing, new energy, science and technology, and cultural and humanitarian exchanges, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said in Cairo on Thursday.

    As Li Qiang indicated during his meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, China is ready to encourage more competitive Chinese companies to invest in the Egyptian economy.

    Li Qiang conveyed cordial greetings from Chinese President Xi Jinping to A.F. al-Sisi, saying that under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, China-Egypt relations have been developing rapidly in recent years.

    According to the Premier of the State Council, the Chinese side hopes to work with Egypt to take advantage of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries to develop traditional friendship, strengthen political mutual trust and continue to firmly support each other on issues affecting mutual core interests.

    China, Li Qiang continued, is willing to work with Egypt to continuously enrich the China-Egypt comprehensive strategic partnership, promote new achievements of bilateral cooperation in various fields, and consistently move towards the goal of building a China-Egypt community with a shared future in the new era.

    According to Li Qiang, today’s international situation is characterized by growing turbulence and worsening chaos, in particular, this concerns protracted and intractable conflicts in West Asia and North Africa.

    The head of the Chinese government stressed that China is ready to maintain close communication with Egypt and facilitate a speedy end to hostilities in the Gaza Strip.

    The Chinese side is also willing to work with Egypt to help alleviate the humanitarian crisis, prevent the spread and escalation of the conflict, and make unremitting efforts for a comprehensive, fair and lasting settlement of the Palestinian issue, Li Qiang noted.

    He said China hopes to strengthen communication and coordination with Egypt in multilateral forums including the UN, BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization to implement genuine multilateralism.

    Li Qiang added that China is willing to work with Egypt to promote the building of an equal and orderly multipolar world and an inclusive economic globalization that benefits everyone, and promote the sustainable and long-term development of China-Arab and China-Africa cooperation.

    A.F. al-Sisi asked Li Qiang to convey his sincere greetings and good wishes to Xi Jinping, pointing out that under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, China has achieved remarkable achievements in socio-economic development.

    China is a sincere friend of Egypt, and since the establishment of diplomatic relations, bilateral ties have consistently developed in a stable and successful manner, the Egyptian leader stated.

    In recent years, he particularly noted, Egypt and China, through joint efforts, have established a comprehensive strategic partnership, as a result of which bilateral ties have reached the highest level in history.

    A.F. al-Sisi assured that Egypt firmly adheres to the one-China principle and is ready to maintain close high-level exchanges with China, advance the joint construction of the Belt and Road, and deepen cooperation in areas such as economy, trade, investment, new energy, infrastructure and tourism.

    According to him, Egypt welcomes the entry of more Chinese enterprises into the Egyptian market and is ready to create favorable conditions for this.

    A.F. al-Sisi added that his country supports a number of global initiatives put forward by Xi Jinping and is willing to strengthen multilateral cooperation with China to promote peace and development around the world. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China Ready to Deepen Cooperation with Egypt under Belt and Road Initiative – Premier of State Council of China

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    CAIRO, July 10 (Xinhua) — China is willing to strengthen cooperation with Egypt under the Belt and Road Initiative in areas including economy, trade, finance, manufacturing, new energy, science and technology, and cultural and humanitarian exchanges, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said in Cairo on Thursday.

    As Li Qiang indicated during his meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, China is ready to encourage more competitive Chinese companies to invest in the Egyptian economy.

    Li Qiang conveyed cordial greetings from Chinese President Xi Jinping to A.F. al-Sisi, saying that under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, China-Egypt relations have been developing rapidly in recent years.

    According to the Premier of the State Council, the Chinese side hopes to work with Egypt to take advantage of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries to develop traditional friendship, strengthen political mutual trust and continue to firmly support each other on issues affecting mutual core interests.

    China, Li Qiang continued, is willing to work with Egypt to continuously enrich the China-Egypt comprehensive strategic partnership, promote new achievements of bilateral cooperation in various fields, and consistently move towards the goal of building a China-Egypt community with a shared future in the new era.

    According to Li Qiang, today’s international situation is characterized by growing turbulence and worsening chaos, in particular, this concerns protracted and intractable conflicts in West Asia and North Africa.

    The head of the Chinese government stressed that China is ready to maintain close communication with Egypt and facilitate a speedy end to hostilities in the Gaza Strip.

    The Chinese side is also willing to work with Egypt to help alleviate the humanitarian crisis, prevent the spread and escalation of the conflict, and make unremitting efforts for a comprehensive, fair and lasting settlement of the Palestinian issue, Li Qiang noted.

    He said China hopes to strengthen communication and coordination with Egypt in multilateral forums including the UN, BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization to implement genuine multilateralism.

    Li Qiang added that China is willing to work with Egypt to promote the building of an equitable and orderly multipolar world and an inclusive economic globalization that benefits everyone, and promote the sustainable and long-term development of China-Arab and China-Africa cooperation. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Security Council Press Statement on Signature of Peace Agreement between Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    The following Security Council press statement was issued today by Council President Asim Iftikhar Ahmad (Pakistan):

    The members of the Security Council welcomed the peace agreement signed between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda on 27 June, and expressed their deep appreciation to the United States, Qatar and the African Union for their facilitation efforts.

    The members of the Security Council urged the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda to honour in good faith their obligations and commitments for lasting peace in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, including those related to the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) and resolution 2773 (2025).

    The members of the Security Council expressed their determination to actively support the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda in the implementation and follow-up of this agreement.

    For information media. Not an official record.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Saudi Arabia lifesaving date shipment to feed 100,000 conflict affected Mozambicans

    Source: World Food Programme

    MAPUTO – The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief), in partnership with the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), has delivered 23 metric tonnes of premium Saudi dates to support more than 100,000 vulnerable women, children, and families in northern Mozambique who are suffering from the impacts of conflict and displacement.

    Dates, a staple of Saudi generosity and nutrition for centuries, are rich in fibre, antioxidants, and essential minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and iron. This donation will directly enhance the diets of families struggling with food insecurity, providing both immediate nourishment and a symbol of solidarity from the people of Saudi Arabia.

    The shipment arrived at the Port of Nacala and was swiftly transported to Cabo Delgado Province, where distribution to conflict-affected households is already underway.

    “These dates will strengthen the diets of 100,000 people—especially women and children—and represent a meaningful gesture of solidarity from the people of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the people of Mozambique”, said Antonella D’Aprile, WFP Country Director in Mozambique.

    Mr. Mishaal Bin Shail, Acting Charge d’affaires of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Mozambique, added. “The gift of dates is a quiet yet powerful symbol of goodwill reflecting shared values, strengthening the bonds of friendship between our nations, and echoing a border spirit of care and solidarity that defines the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s engagement with vulnerable communities”.

    Mozambique is currently facing one of its most severe food security crises in recent years. An estimated 5 million people require urgent humanitarian assistance, and nearly 40 percent of children under five are suffering from chronic malnutrition. In the north, ongoing conflict and climate shocks continue to displace families and disrupt livelihoods, making life-saving support more critical than ever.

    Saudi Arabia’s humanitarian assistance, coordinated by KSrelief, is a cornerstone of its foreign aid. Since 2015, KSrelief has delivered aid to vulnerable communities worldwide. Between 2022 and 2024 alone, Saudi Arabia provided 160 metric tonnes of dates to Mozambique, reaffirming its long-term commitment to the country’s recovery and resilience.

    ###

    About WFP

    The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.

    Follow us on X, formerly Twitter, via @wfp_mozambique, @WFP_Safrica and @wfp_media

    About KSrelief

    The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief), established under the guidance of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, represents Saudi Arabia’s commitment to global humanitarian efforts. Inaugurated in May 2015, KSrelief has provided impartial humanitarian aid and relief to over 100 countries in cooperation with local, regional and international organizations.

    About Embassy of Saudi Arabia in Mozambique

    The embassy of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Maputo represents the Kingdom’s official diplomatic presence in the Republic of Mozambique. The Embassy is dedicated to fostering strong and cooperative bilateral relations between Saudi Arabia and Mozambique, with a focus on political dialogue, economic collaboration, and cultural exchange.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Plans to relocate Gazans to a ‘humanitarian city’ look like a crime against humanity – international law expert

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By James Sweeney, Professor, Lancaster Law School, Lancaster University

    The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are refusing to implement a government plan to move hundreds of thousands of Palestinians into a what it calls a “humanitarian city” in Rafah on Gaza’s southern border with Egypt. Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, chief of the IDF general staff said the plan was not part of the military’s operational plan for destroying Hamas and freeing the remaining hostages.

    Army reservists have reportedly also complained that the plan amounts to a war crime. In my view as an expert in international law, they are correct. Forcibly relocating a population is prohibited, even in war. It is also a crime against humanity and could even amount, under certain circumstances, to genocide.

    There is some important historical context to consider before examining the legal issues at play.

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

    The prosecution of crimes against humanity first took place at the Nuremberg trials of surviving senior Nazis after the second world war. By that time the idea of war crimes was clearly established – but they tended to concern what you should not do to the enemy civilian population.

    The problem was that the worst atrocities of the Nazis were committed against their own people – the German Jews (and many, many others too). The idea of crimes against humanity was created to fill this gap, and was used to prosecute the surviving masterminds of the Holocaust.

    Conditions for a ‘crime against humanity’

    Crimes against humanity are a category that contains several separate crimes. If the right conditions are there, you might talk about “the crime against humanity of murder” or the “crime against humanity of rape”. The conditions are that the underpinning crime takes place against a backdrop of a “widespread or systematic” attack on a civilian population.

    The attack does not have to include a literal armed attack: apartheid, for example, was established as a crime against humanity in 1973 in response to the policies of the South African government. It is also not necessary that there is an armed conflict for a particular crime to be a crime against humanity.

    Within the category of crimes against humanity is included “deportation and forcible transfer” (see article 7 of the Rome statute of the International Criminal Court).

    This is what the Israeli government’s plan for moving Palestinians into a “humanitarian city” would appear to amount to. If the plan stopped at leaving Gazan Palestinians in Rafah then it would be “forcible transfer”, and if they were relocated to another country it would be “deportation”.

    Coercion is key to the crime of forcible transfer. It’s fanciful to think that every single Gazan civilian would want to move to Rafah in circumstances where they would be security-checked on entry and thereafter forbidden from leaving.

    How could a liveable city, with all the infrastructure needed, even be created? What of the dentists, doctors, teachers, lawyers, mechanics, entrepreneurs and anyone else who was able to make an honest living? Will they really be given a place to carry out their work?

    Ethnic cleansing

    The term “ethnic cleansing” is sometimes used to describe what is being proposed by the Israeli government. I dislike the term, and it has no meaning in law. It became a commonly used term during the 1990s conflict in the former Yugoslavia when ethnic Serbs, and in some instances ethnic Croats, expelled hundreds of thousands of people of any other ethnicity out of the territory that they held.

    For this practice, the president of the former Yugoslavia, Slobodan Milošević, and a string of Bosnian Serb and Bosnian Croat leaders were charged with crimes against humanity by the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY).

    Milošević died before the ICTY could deliver a verdict in his case, but many others were found guilty. The actions of the Bosnian Serb forces in the town of Srebrenica were even found by the ICTY to have been an act of genocide, because they were not just expelling non-Serbs but wiping them out: at one point in July 1995 they killed around 8,000 men and boys in just a few days.

    A lot would depend on the conditions in which the Palestinians would live in the “humanitarian city”. If they were deprived of sufficient food and medical supplies in a way that could only be seen as intended to lead to their deaths, then that too could be held to qualify as an act of genocide.

    Justice and accountability

    It is clear to me that the forced relocation of Gazans to a “humanitarian city” would violate international law. What is not so clear cut is how to hold its instigators to account.

    There are already arrest warrants issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for Israel’s prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, and his former defence minister, Yoav Gallant. But there is no international police force and so the ICC relies on participating states to arrest suspects on its behalf. Hungary welcomed Netanyahu in April this year, while announcing it would withdraw from the ICC.

    In the same way, Netanyahu flew to Washington DC this week to meet with Donald Trump, but was not arrested because the US doesn’t recognise the ICC. During his visit, Netanyahu announced he would be nominating Trump for the Nobel peace prize.

    South Africa has also sought to hold the state of Israel to account at the International Court of Justice, alleging the crime of genocide. The court has yet to rule, saying only that it is plausible that acts of genocide might occur in Gaza.

    Since Hamas launched its vicious attack on Isreal on the October 7 2023, there has been constant violence and massive loss of life in the region. However, the proposed “humanitarian city” is not, in my view, a lawful route to peace and stability. As for anyone actually facing justice for the many atrocities that we have seen, an international consensus in favour simply doesn’t exist. And, in the current climate, there’s little sign that it will exist any time soon.

    James Sweeney does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Plans to relocate Gazans to a ‘humanitarian city’ look like a crime against humanity – international law expert – https://theconversation.com/plans-to-relocate-gazans-to-a-humanitarian-city-look-like-a-crime-against-humanity-international-law-expert-260727

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI: Quantum Computing Emerging as a Transformative Technology with Potential Applications in Drone Technology

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PALM BEACH, Fla., July 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FN Media Group News Commentary – Quantum computing uses the principles of quantum mechanics to process and manipulate information in ways that differ fundamentally from those used by classical computers while disrupting a growing number of applications and industries. This represents a revolutionary shift in computing. Quantum computers leverage phenomena such as superposition, entanglement, and quantum interference to perform complex calculations and solve problems that are currently intractable for classical computers. The quantum computing market is witnessing rapid growth and innovation, driven by advancements in quantum technology and increasing demand for powerful computing solutions. As businesses and research institutions seek to tackle complex computational problems beyond the capabilities of classical computers, the market for quantum computing is poised for significant expansion. Market trends indicate a surge in investment from both public and private sectors, with major technology companies, governments, and startups dedicating resources to quantum research and development. This influx of investment has fueled breakthroughs in quantum hardware, software, and algorithms, propelling the market forward. A report from Polaris Market Research said that the Quantum Computing Market size was valued at USD $1.187.92 Billion in 2023 and that the market is anticipated to grow from USD $1.410.65 Billion in 2024 to USD $5.714.80 Billion by 2032, exhibiting the CAGR of 19.1% during the forecast period. Active Companies in the markets today include ZenaTech, Inc. (NASDAQ: ZENA), IonQ (NYSE: IONQ), Red Cat Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: RCAT), Quantum Computing Inc. (NASDAQ: QUBT), AgEagle Aerial Systems Inc. (NYSE: UAVS).

    The report continued: “There is a growing market trend toward computational power to address real-world challenges in fields such as cryptography, drug discovery, materials science, and optimization. Quantum computing has the potential to solve intricate problems at an exponential rate compared to classical computing, opening up new avenues for scientific exploration and innovative solutions. The growing concerns about data security and encryption vulnerabilities have triggered a surge in interest for quantum-resistant cryptographic solutions, which has further fueled the demand for quantum computing capabilities. In a period of increasingly complex computational challenges across various industries, traditional computing methods often need help to meet the demands for processing power and speed required to address these issues effectively. Quantum computing offers a revolutionary approach to computing by leveraging the principles of quantum mechanics to perform computations at an unprecedented scale and speed. As demand for quantum computing grows across various industries, including drone operations, surveillance, pharmaceuticals, and cybersecurity, the system segment becomes increasingly vital in delivering comprehensive solutions tailored to meet diverse customer needs.”

    ZenaTech (NASDAQ:ZENA) Creates First Quantum Computing Prototype Enabling Disruptive AI Drone Speed and Precision for Future Commercial and US Defense Applications – ZenaTech, Inc. (FSE: 49Q) (BMV: ZENA) (“ZenaTech”), a business technology solution provider specializing in AI (Artificial Intelligence) drones, Drone as a Service (DaaS), Enterprise SaaS, and Quantum Computing solutions, today announces the successful development of its first quantum computing prototype consisting of a framework for the rapid analysis and processing of large datasets for its AI drone solutions. Using weather forecasting algorithms as part of its Clear Sky project as a test case, the company has created a precedent framework for real time analysis of massive amounts of data that can be captured through AI drone sensors while in the air.

    The Company envisions commercial applications ranging from highly efficient precision agriculture to predictive energy infrastructure inspections. Defense applications include enhancing real-time battlefield decision-making with faster and more precise threat detection, reconnaissance, and advance electronic warfare capabilities.

    “We’re not just building smarter drones, we’re building a quantum-intelligent edge where data becomes decisions in an instant, whether it’s a battlefield or a farm field,” said Shaun Passley, Ph.D., ZenaTech CEO. “We believe this quantum framework we are creating is just the beginning as we’ve now demonstrated it can use it for large datasets. We plan to keep expanding R&D capabilities, with the goal of growing our team of 6 to 25 over the coming months. The end goal is clear: accelerate time to market, reduce operational costs, and lead the industry as a true innovator,” added Dr. Passley.

    ZenaTech’s Clear Sky project is one of the company’s quantum computing R&D initiatives focused on weather forecasting that will use AI drones and drone fleets plus quantum to better predict localized weather for more accurate prediction of extreme weather events saving lives and reducing costs and destruction. The weather application and algorithms used for the prototype track and analyze multiple key atmospheric parameters such as temperature, humidity, wind, barometric pressure, and precipitation. Internal testing using historical open-source data has shown a high degree of accuracy with trusted weather platforms and actual data, validating both its accuracy and reliability.

    Quantum computing combined with AI-powered drone applications enables disruptive speed, precision, and autonomy by dramatically accelerating data analysis, optimizing complex decisions, and enhancing real-time responsiveness. In commercial sectors, this means drones can autonomously inspect vast energy grids or farmland, instantly analyze multispectral data, and adjust actions on the fly—leading to lower costs and higher productivity in agriculture, logistics, and infrastructure. In defense, the same capabilities empower autonomous surveillance drones to process sensor data and identify threats in real time, coordinate swarm or drone fleet movements, and dynamically adapt to changing battlefield conditions—all with minimal human input. This fusion of technologies allows drones to make faster, smarter decisions in unpredictable, data-intensive environments—reshaping what’s possible across industries.

    For weather forecasting, quantum computing can rapidly process and simulate complex atmospheric models by analyzing massive datasets from AI-enabled drones equipped with weather sensors, LiDAR, and imaging systems. This allows for highly accurate, real-time weather forecasting and microclimate prediction, improving response times for disaster management, aviation safety, and environmental monitoring.

    Quantum computing is a next-generation computing technology that uses the principles of quantum physics to process information exponentially faster than traditional computers, enabling it to solve highly complex problems that are otherwise unsolvable by even the most powerful classical computers of today. Continued… Read this full release by visiting: https://www.financialnewsmedia.com/news-zena/

    Other recent developments in the markets include:

    IonQ (NYSE: IONQ), a leading commercial quantum computing and networking company, recently extended its congratulations to the Korea Institute of Science and Technology Information (KISTI) on securing a multi-million dollar government award through the “Quantum Computing Service and Utilization System Construction Project.” This initiative marks a pivotal step toward establishing South Korea’s first National Quantum Computing Center of Excellence.

    KISTI will lead the development and operation of a quantum computing service and research platform designed to support both academic and enterprise applications. KISTI has identified IonQ as the primary quantum technology provider for the project, alongside Megazone Cloud, one of South Korea’s leading cloud service and infrastructure providers.

    Red Cat Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: RCAT), a drone technology company integrating robotic hardware and software for military, government, and commercial operations, recently issued a statement of support for a series of executive orders from the White House that advance U.S. leadership in uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) and reinforce the resilience of America’s domestic industrial base.

    The executive actions are expected to remove regulatory barriers and modernize federal approval processes to prioritize U.S.-manufactured drones. Additional provisions include expanded detection and mitigation authority, and streamlined regulations to accelerate the deployment of UAS across federal and commercial sectors.

    Quantum Computing Inc. (NASDAQ: QUBT) recently announced the successful shipment of its first commercial entangled photon source to support research in quantum networking and secure communications. The order, placed by a leading research institution in South Korea, marks a milestone in QCi’s transition of proprietary quantum technologies from the lab to commercial markets.

    The product is a broadband, standalone entangled photon source built on Spontaneous Parametric Down-Conversion (SPDC) using a periodically-poled, bulk format lithium niobate (PPLN) structure. Designed for stability and compatibility, the source operates in the C-band telecommunication range and is compatible with current fiber optics infrastructure. It integrates seamlessly into research environments advancing quantum communication protocols.

    AgEagle Aerial Systems Inc. (NYSE: UAVS), a leading provider of advanced drone and aerial imaging solutions, recently announced the upcoming demonstration of AI-enabled autonomous Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) teaming, developed through a strategic partnership with an Israeli defense/technology firm. The system is designed for use in border security, surveillance, and intrusion detection missions and will showcase advanced autonomous capabilities with minimal human intervention while delivering real-time operational intelligence.

    The joint effort integrates AgEagle’s eBee VISION drones with partner-developed AI-powered mission planning and autonomous control tools, enabling the drones to operate as a cohesive, intelligent unit. The system leverages adaptive algorithms and decentralized decision-making within a “system of systems” architecture that dynamically adjusts to mission conditions in real time. This integration is expected to significantly enhance Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) effectiveness by delivering actionable data with increased speed and precision.

    About FN Media Group:

    At FN Media Group, via our top-rated online news portal at www.financialnewsmedia.com, we are one of the very few select firms providing top tier one syndicated news distribution, targeted ticker tag press releases and stock market news coverage for today’s emerging companies. #tickertagpressreleases #pressreleases

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    DISCLAIMER: FN Media Group LLC (FNM), which owns and operates FinancialNewsMedia.com and MarketNewsUpdates.com, is a third party publisher and news dissemination service provider, which disseminates electronic information through multiple online media channels. FNM is NOT affiliated in any manner with any company mentioned herein. FNM and its affiliated companies are a news dissemination solutions provider and are NOT a registered broker/dealer/analyst/adviser, holds no investment licenses and may NOT sell, offer to sell or offer to buy any security. FNM’s market updates, news alerts and corporate profiles are NOT a solicitation or recommendation to buy, sell or hold securities. The material in this release is intended to be strictly informational and is NEVER to be construed or interpreted as research material. All readers are strongly urged to perform research and due diligence on their own and consult a licensed financial professional before considering any level of investing in stocks. All material included herein is republished content and details which were previously disseminated by the companies mentioned in this release. FNM is not liable for any investment decisions by its readers or subscribers. Investors are cautioned that they may lose all or a portion of their investment when investing in stocks. For current services performed FNM has been compensated fifty one hundred dollars for news coverage of the current press releases issued by ZenaTech, Inc. by the Company. FNM HOLDS NO SHARES OF ANY COMPANY NAMED IN THIS RELEASE.

    This release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. “Forward-looking statements” describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies and are generally preceded by words such as “may”, “future”, “plan” or “planned”, “will” or “should”, “expected,” “anticipates”, “draft”, “eventually” or “projected”. You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, and other risks identified in a company’s annual report on Form 10-K or 10-KSB and other filings made by such company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You should consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements included herein, and not place undue reliance on such statements. The forward-looking statements in this release are made as of the date hereof and FNM undertakes no obligation to update such statements.

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    SOURCE: FN Media Group

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Egypt: President El-Sisi Meets Premier of the State Council of China

    Source: APO


    .

    Today, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi received the Premier of the State Council of China, Li Qiang, in the presence of Prime Minister Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, along with several ministers and senior officials from both sides.

    The Spokesman for the Presidency, Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy, said that the Premier of the State Council of China conveyed the greetings of the Chinese president to President El-Sisi. He also emphasized that President El-Sisi is a dear friend of China and is always warmly welcomed in Beijing. He expressed China’s pride in having close relations with Egypt, which are built on a long history of strategic partnership, mutual respect, and common interests. The Premier noted the rapid development in bilateral relations and the close coordination between the two countries on both regional and international levels, appreciating Egypt’s pivotal role as a cornerstone of stability in the Middle East.

    President El-Sisi affirmed Egypt’s commitment to enhancing cooperation with China in various areas of mutual interest and working to activate the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries, especially with the upcoming celebration, to be held in 2026, of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Egypt and China.

    President El-Sisi lauded the contributions of Chinese companies to implementing development projects in Egypt and expressed the country’s interest in attracting more Chinese investments, particularly in the sectors of new and renewable energy and electric vehicle manufacturing. This is in addition to enhancing the flow of Chinese tourism and strengthening cooperation in the manufacturing and development fields in general.

    President El-Sisi also expressed Egypt’s interest in continuing coordination with China on the issue of debt swaps and the effective and efficient implementation of related agreements.

    Views were exchanged on regional and international developments. Both sides stressed the importance of underpinning the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Iran, and resuming the diplomatic path to resolve the crisis through peaceful means. Both parties also underscored the necessity of reaching a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, ensuring the immediate delivery of humanitarian aid, and the importance of reaching a just and comprehensive solution to the Palestinian issue.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Presidency of the Arab Republic of Egypt.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Sudanese Prime Minister Meets Qatar’s Ambassador

    Source: APO


    .

    HE Prime Minister of the sisterly Republic of the Sudan Dr. Kamil Idris met with HE Ambassador of the State of Qatar to the Sudan, Mohammed bin Ibrahim Al Sada. 

    During the meeting, they discussed cooperation relations between the two countries. 

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of The State of Qatar.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Saudi Arabia lifesaving date shipment to feed 100,000 conflict affected Mozambicans

    Source: APO


    .

    The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief), in partnership with the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), has delivered 23 metric tonnes of premium Saudi dates to support more than 100,000 vulnerable women, children, and families in northern Mozambique who are suffering from the impacts of conflict and displacement.

    Dates, a staple of Saudi generosity and nutrition for centuries, are rich in fibre, antioxidants, and essential minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and iron. This donation will directly enhance the diets of families struggling with food insecurity, providing both immediate nourishment and a symbol of solidarity from the people of Saudi Arabia.

    The shipment arrived at the Port of Nacala and was swiftly transported to Cabo Delgado Province, where distribution to conflict-affected households is already underway.

    “These dates will strengthen the diets of 100,000 people—especially women and children—and represent a meaningful gesture of solidarity from the people of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the people of Mozambique”, said Antonella D’Aprile, WFP Country Director in Mozambique.

    Mr. Mishaal Bin Shail, Acting Charge d’affaires of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Mozambique, added. “The gift of dates is a quiet yet powerful symbol of goodwill reflecting shared values, strengthening the bonds of friendship between our nations, and echoing a border spirit of care and solidarity that defines the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s engagement with vulnerable communities”.

    Mozambique is currently facing one of its most severe food security crises in recent years. An estimated 5 million people require urgent humanitarian assistance, and nearly 40 percent of children under five are suffering from chronic malnutrition. In the north, ongoing conflict and climate shocks continue to displace families and disrupt livelihoods, making life-saving support more critical than ever.

    Saudi Arabia’s humanitarian assistance, coordinated by KSrelief, is a cornerstone of its foreign aid. Since 2015, KSrelief has delivered aid to vulnerable communities worldwide. Between 2022 and 2024 alone, Saudi Arabia provided 160 metric tonnes of dates to Mozambique, reaffirming its long-term commitment to the country’s recovery and resilience.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Food Programme (WFP).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Hochul’s Letter to Secretary of Homeland Security

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul issued a letter to U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem urging the Department to make funding available to state and local governments through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Homeland Security Grant Program (HSGP) as has been done every year since 2002.

    HSGP provides states, local jurisdictions and their law enforcement, public safety, homeland security and emergency management officials with critical resources to further their preparedness and response capabilities. Without these resources, first responders and frontline emergency management operation teams will be unable to access state-of-the-art training, the latest advancements in equipment and the ability to seamlessly share and analyze intelligence with each other.

    As the threat of terrorism increases amid the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, it is essential that the federal government ensures the availability of funding for all essential components of counterterrorism efforts.

    The full text of the letter is below:

    Dear Secretary Noem:

    As Governor, my chief responsibility is ensuring the safety and security of New York State and all its residents. Not only does New York face the nation’s most diverse threat landscape, but with numerous economic, governmental, and recreational assets, it remains the nation’s top target for terrorism. In recent months, that threat has only grown given the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, making it essential that the federal government, specifically, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), ensure the availability of critical homeland security funding to states and local governments.

    I am deeply troubled that DHS has yet to make funding available to states and local governments through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Homeland Security Grant Program (HSGP) as it has every year since 2002.

    On June 22, 2025, DHS issued a bulletin through the National Terrorism Advisory System notifying Americans of the heightened threat environment our nation faces due to our recent involvement in the ongoing conflict between the nations of Israel and Iran. As noted in the bulletin:

    “….Low-level cyber attacks against US networks by pro-Iranian hacktivists are likely, and cyber actors affiliated with the Iranian government may conduct attacks against US networks. Iran also has a long-standing commitment to target US Government officials it views as responsible for the death of an Iranian military commander killed in January 2020. The likelihood of violent extremists in the Homeland independently mobilizing to violence in response to the conflict would likely increase if Iranian leadership issued a religious ruling calling for retaliatory violence against targets in the Homeland. Multiple recent Homeland terrorist attacks have been motivated by anti-Semitic or anti-Israel sentiment, and the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict could contribute to US-based individuals plotting additional attacks.”

    As home to the country’s largest economic center, and the largest Jewish community outside of Israel, these threats put New York communities at a greater risk than perhaps anywhere else in the nation. Thankfully, since your agency’s inception, New York and DHS have maintained a strong partnership to counter these threats. This partnership has been essential to ensure that the State and local governments and their public safety agencies have the funding and resources needed to prepare for, mitigate, prevent and withstand terrorist threats and targeted violence.

    One core component of this partnership has been DHS’ Homeland Security Grant Program (HSGP). In 2024, New York received $219.9 million in HSGP funding, $156.1 million of which was allocated through the Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) for jurisdictions in the New York City Metro Area, principally the New York Police Department. In 2023, New York received $244.7 million with $173.9 million allocated through UASI.

    HSGP provides states, local jurisdictions and their law enforcement, public safety, homeland security and emergency management officials with critical resources to further their preparedness and response capabilities. Without these resources, the heroic men and women who continuously put their lives on the line to protect their fellow Americans are unable to access state of the art training, the latest advancements in equipment and the ability to seamlessly share and analyze intelligence with each other – all essential components of counterterrorism efforts.

    Furthermore, HSGP funding is vital to securing and maintaining critical infrastructure assets (transportation hubs, power grids, water systems, communication networks) which are top targets of nefarious actors, as well as to assist local law enforcement with border security via Operation Stonegarden. Through Operation Stonegarden, jurisdictions along international borders receive direct funding to not only enhance cooperation and coordination between federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies, but to support joint operations. As a state with a 445-mile international border, security of this boundary is of the utmost importance to me. To that end, I have secured $8 million in state funds, as well as dedicated State Police and other public safety resources to support this federal mission.

    Any further delays in the availability of HSGP will degrade the capabilities of our nation to prevent terrorism and make us less safe at a time when the variety and severity of security threats continue to grow.

    I urge you to release the FY2025 HSGP Notice of Funding Opportunity immediately and help ensure our nation remains ready and able to defend ourselves against anyone seeking to threaten our way of life.

    Sincerely,
    Governor Kathy Hochul

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Uzbekistan State Registered Token Backed by Government Bonds

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, July 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The national payment system HUMO has announced the launch of a project for issuing its own token backed by Uzbekistan’s government bonds. The new token is issued by HUMO Digital, a subsidiary of the system. This marks an important step in advancing innovative financial solutions in the country’s economy.

    The issuance of the HUMO token has been registered in the Unified Electronic Register of Crypto-Assets maintained by the National Agency for Prospective Projects of the Republic of Uzbekistan (NAPP). Oversight of the token’s collateral and its safekeeping is handled by the Asterium crypto depository. The HUMO token is backed by government bonds of Uzbekistan, which ensures its stability and protects it from sharp price fluctuations.

    The HUMO token is a project of the national payment system HUMO, a key driver of Uzbekistan’s digital transformation in the financial sector. With over 35 million issued cards and deep integration into the country’s banking and retail infrastructure, HUMO plays a vital role in the everyday financial life of millions of citizens.

    The token’s launch aims to attract foreign investment, simplify business payments, and enhance financial transparency. A token backed by government bonds also strengthens control over transactions and builds trust in innovative financial instruments.

    The HUMO token offers several key advantages: instant and automated fiat conversion, no delays or intermediaries, lower transaction costs, and full transparency and security through blockchain-based data recording.

    The goal of the current stage is to test settlement and integration mechanisms with participation from businesses and retail users, and to explore real-world use cases for the backed token in financial processes.

    Looking ahead, the project plans to introduce new features for companies interested in using advanced tools for payments and operations. The HUMO token will be integrated into payment solutions and is expected to be listed on digital trading platforms. The issuance and circulation mechanisms were designed to fit seamlessly into Uzbekistan’s existing financial infrastructure.

    Maqsad Mukhitdinov, Acting Chairman of the Board of the National Interbank Processing Center (operator of the HUMO national system), stated:

    “The issuance of the HUMO token is a logical step in the evolution of our ecosystem, aimed at creating a secure and regulated backed asset. We seek to combine the benefits of blockchain technology with the reliability of our national payment infrastructure, ensuring user convenience and transparency.”

    Komilkhuzha Sultonov, Director of Asterium, added:

    “This project is more than just a tech innovation — it’s a major step toward building a transparent and resilient financial environment. It opens new opportunities for shaping the economy of the future while reinforcing Asterium’s role as a driver of digital transformation in Uzbekistan.”

    About HUMO

    HumoCard is a national payment system based on banking payment cards, enabling transactions both within Uzbekistan and internationally. HUMO is an integral part of the country’s payment ecosystem. It connects participants, instruments, and platforms in interbank settlements, enabling smooth domestic money transfers and interactions with foreign payment systems.

    HUMO has established direct relationships with major global payment systems such as Visa, MasterCard, and UnionPay International, allowing for foreign currency operations with HUMO bank cards abroad and accepting foreign-issued cards in Uzbekistan. The system is actively expanding integrations with Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, South Korea, Turkey, Armenia, and India.

    Contact:
    Aleksey Maksimov
    Chairman of the Board of the National Interbank Processing Center (NMPC)
    info@humocard.uz

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

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    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c3603408-71f1-47bc-ac1b-a45c2be4ce11

    The MIL Network –