Category: Technology

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cotton, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Combat Chinese Drone Market Dominance

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas Tom Cotton

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    Contact: Caroline Tabler or Patrick McCann (202) 224-2353
    July 23, 2025

    Cotton, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Combat Chinese Drone Market Dominance

    Washington, DC — Senators Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), Chris Coons (D-Delaware), and John Cornyn (R-Texas) today introduced the Leading Exports of Aerial Drones Act, or LEAD Act, legislation that would make it easier for American companies to sell unmanned aerial systems (UAS) to American allies and partners.

    “The current restrictions on UAS sales to allies and partners are outdated and put American companies at a disadvantage, all while ceding the market to Communist China. This bill will spur American business and innovation while decreasing global dependence on Chinese military technology,” said Senator Cotton.

    “Drones aren’t just the future of warfare—as we’re seeing in Ukraine, they’re its present, too. Against the backdrop of increasing alignment between Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea, we must ensure that the United States and our allies and partner have the weapons systems and munitions we need to defend ourselves. This bill is a first step towards the objective of greater military production, integration, and deterrence for the United States and our allies in an increasingly dangerous world,” said Senator Coons.

    “This commonsense legislation would cut red tape to make drone technology more accessible and foster greater strategic defense cooperation with our allies, and I’m glad to support it,” said Senator Cornyn.

    Bill text is here.

    The LEAD Act would:

    • Direct changes to the Arms Control Act, the United States Munitions List, and the Missile Technology Control Regime to require UAS be treated as manned aircraft and separately from missile technology for the purposes of defense transfers.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – The new European internal security strategy: ProtectEU – 18-07-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    On 1 April 2025, the Commission presented the new European internal security strategy, ProtectEU. The strategy is based on experience with previous internal security strategies, research conducted by EU institutions and agencies, including Europol’s SOCTA report, and consultation with all the major stakeholders, including the public. It is part of a wider framework for a safe, secure and resilient EU, and complements the Preparedness Union Strategy, the European Defence White Paper and the European Democracy Shield. Owing to the increasingly complex and constantly developing security threats facing the EU, the strategy develops a whole-of-society approach to security and aims to mainstream security in all new EU legislation, reflecting the awareness of the need for a new way to govern internal security in the EU. The emphasis is on the anticipation of security threats, through sharing intelligence and threat analysis. To support this approach, the strategy proposes to increase the effectiveness of various law enforcement tools, including strengthening Europol and Frontex. Combating online threats continues from the previous strategy, including through a new Cybersecurity Act. The fight against serious and organised crime also continues, coupled with the fight against terrorism. The new strategy also goes beyond the borders of the EU, by concluding partnerships on operational cooperation with key regions. The European Parliament has welcomed the new strategy, which includes several initiatives that the Parliament has been a part of. Notably, the Parliament’s emphasis on the protection of fundamental rights has been embedded in the new strategy.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI: Bitcoin Swift Launches First Presale Stage as Demand Surges for $15 Launch Price

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LUXEMBOURG, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The crypto space is no stranger to presale hype. But few launches have stirred excitement quite like Bitcoin Swift’s. With its initial stage priced at just $1 and a launch target of $15, the protocol has already begun attracting attention from investors looking for more than just speculation. What sets Bitcoin Swift apart isn’t just the price trajectory. It’s the blend of privacy, programmable rewards, and dual-layer consensus that has institutions and early adopters racing to get in.

    Consensus, Efficiency, and Real Yield in One Framework

    At its core, Bitcoin Swift combines the best of proven blockchain mechanisms with forward-thinking upgrades. The network operates on a hybrid Proof-of-Work and Proof-of-Stake model. PoW secures the system and mints new blocks, while PoS finalizes state changes and handles decentralized identity checkpoints. This dual structure helps BTC3 deliver scalable security while enabling faster decision-making through validator participation.

    But the highlight for miners and holders is the Proof-of-Yield model. It goes beyond standard emissions and instead evaluates real-time metrics like energy efficiency and miner contribution. A federated set of AI oracles handles the data intake. These agents monitor energy use, carbon impact, and governance participation to ensure that BTC3’s emissions aren’t just distributed, but earned. The system adjusts over time, responding to real-world performance and keeping rewards aligned with actual contribution. This approach stands out in an era where static reward models often fail to incentivize long-term sustainability.

    Stage One Price Action and Earning Structure

    Bitcoin Swift (BTC3) kicked off its presale with a strategy designed to reward action, not hesitation. Stage 1 buyers secured BTC3 at $1.00, locking in not only the lowest entry point but eligibility for early programmable mining rewards. Stage 2 will see the price increase to $2.00, with the full launch pegged at $15.00. Stage 1 current APY is 143%. This presale is gaining momentum fast because it isn’t just about buying tokens. Rewards begin distributing at the end of each presale stage, not after the token launches. It’s a system built to reward conviction, not just timing. With only 61 days until completion and ten rapidly climbing stages, the window for entry is brief and shrinking.

    Smart Contracts with Embedded AI

    Bitcoin Swift integrates AI deep within its architecture. WASM smart contracts are equipped with learning agents that adapt over time, making financial applications more responsive and dynamic. Governance benefits from AI too, with proposals pre-screened for risk before going to a community vote.

    Key AI and governance features of BTC3:

    • AI agents within WASM smart contracts that adapt to user behavior
    • AI-assisted proposal screening for governance decisions
    • Quadratic voting weighted by decentralized ID reputation
    • Prevents vote capture and reinforces trust in system upgrades
    • Audited by Spywolf and Solidproof and KYC verified for security and reliability

    Community interest is growing quickly for Bitcoin Swift, with Crypto Vlog explaining how BTC3 is pushing blockchain innovation beyond traditional models.

    BTC3U and Compliance-Grade Privacy

    Bitcoin Swift introduces BTC3U, a USD-pegged stablecoin fully backed by locked BTC3 tokens. The smart contracts maintain a collateral ratio above 150%, with liquidation triggers governed by AI oracles. The stablecoin is designed for privacy-first applications, protected by zero-knowledge audits and zk-transfer systems. Meanwhile, user identities are verified via zk-SNARKs and decentralized ID infrastructure. This setup enables institutions to verify compliance while preserving user anonymity, a key feature for widespread adoption.

    Security, Migration, and Deployment Timeline

    The current presale deployment runs on Solana for fast and low-cost access, but Bitcoin Swift plans to migrate to its blockchain in 2026 with a 1:1 trustless bridge. That’s when the protocol’s full features, including shielded ledgers and zk-based governance modules, will go live. According to the roadmap, this year will see rewards and AI engines begin operating, followed by private DeFi tools and governance in early 2026. You can follow development updates via the official Telegram.

    Bitcoin vs Bitcoin Swift: A Utility Shift

    Feature Bitcoin Bitcoin Swift (BTC3)
    Consensus Proof-of-Work Hybrid PoW + PoS with AI-enhanced governance
    Privacy Public ledger zk-SNARK layer and shielded transfers
    Smart Contracts Not supported WASM-based with learning agents
    Mining Static block reward Programmable Proof-of-Yield linked to real metrics
    Governance Non-existent Decentralized, DID-based quadratic voting
    Stablecoin None BTC3U, backed by BTC3 with AI-monitored overcollateralization

    Final Thoughts

    Bitcoin Swift is positioning itself as more than just a new blockchain. It’s a programmable, AI-driven protocol that introduces real utility to every stakeholder, whether they are miners, stakers, or builders. With one of the shortest presale timelines in the market and a $15 launch price driving urgency, the next few weeks may shape the future of how its is done.

    For more information on Bitcoin Swift:
    Website: https://bitcoinswift.com

    Contact:
    Luc Schaus
    support@bitcoinswift.com

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

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

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/636933ed-6abb-486e-9c1a-2ec60a05d4b1

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/57405136-1ff8-4af0-a184-ab3ae1b9c946

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    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: $5M Grant to Boost Digital Skills Statewide

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced the re-release of the ConnectALL Digital Equity Program Capacity Grant Request for Applications (RFA), committing over $5 million in State funding to continue New York’s digital equity grantmaking after federal funding was terminated by the Trump administration in May 2025. The ConnectALL Digital Equity Program will award grants across the state to support digital equity and inclusion projects that provide New Yorkers with devices, skills, and awareness needed to make use of affordable, reliable broadband service. Applications are due August 25, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. ET and must be submitted through the New York State Consolidated Funding Application Portal at https://apps.cio.ny.gov/apps/cfa.

    “Digital access is essential for success in today’s world — whether it’s applying for a job, completing schoolwork, accessing health care, or staying connected to loved ones. In New York, we believe that access to affordable, reliable internet is a basic right, not a luxury,” Governor Hochul said. “That’s why we are taking action to ensure every New Yorker has the tools, skills, and support they need to thrive in the digital age. No matter the challenges, we will continue forging ahead — investing in communities, strengthening partnerships, and delivering on our promise of a more connected and equitable future.”

    Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Digital equity is essential to economic mobility, educational access, and full participation in modern life. New York State remains unwavering in our commitment to ensuring that every community — urban, rural, and everything in between—can connect to the resources and opportunities the digital world offers. Through continued investment, strong partnerships, and innovative strategies, we are moving forward to close the digital divide and build a more inclusive future for all New Yorkers.”

    Governor Hochul also announced a campaign to educate New Yorkers on the low-cost internet service options available under New York State’s Affordable Broadband Act (ABA) — the nation’s first legally mandated low-cost broadband option. Under the ABA, internet service providers are required to offer internet connections for $20/month or less and to promote and provide enrollment guidance to consumers.

    By re-releasing the Digital Equity Program RFA, ConnectALL reaffirms the Governor’s commitment to address barriers to internet adoption and access and enhance the opportunities and security for New Yorkers using the internet by:

    • Increasing access to affordable broadband subscriptions
    • Providing access to internet devices
    • Expanding digital literacy programs
    • Protecting the privacy and safety of residents, and
    • Ensuring the accessibility of government services

    ConnectALL will work with state and local partners to promote enrollment in low-cost internet options secured for eligible consumers through the Affordable Broadband Act.

    This groundbreaking legislation has earned national recognition, with ConnectALL winning the National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors (NATOA) Community Broadband and Digital Equity Award for 2025 Broadband Visionary/Legislative Achievement of the Year.

    ConnectALL will partner with New York City and State agencies to engage with eligible households, make them aware of low-cost internet plans, and support their enrollment. This partnership will implement a multi-channel outreach strategy that includes multilingual flyers, text campaigns to households receiving public benefits, summer street and back-to-school outreach, information via NYC 3-1-1, and a plain language self-enrollment guide, among other actions. In addition, the State is investing $500,000 in 2-1-1 NY, a subsidiary of the United Way New York, to launch ABA support for 2-1-1 callers with screenings and targeted enrollment guidance for up to 10,000 low-income households seeking reduced-cost internet services outside of New York City.

    Expanding New York’s Digital Infrastructure

    Governor Hochul has made expanding broadband access a cornerstone of her administration’s efforts to create a more equitable New York. Through the ConnectALL initiative, New York State is investing over $1 billion to transform the state’s digital infrastructure, enhance competition among providers, and ensure that every New Yorker has access to reliable, affordable high-speed internet. To date, ConnectALL has overseen the successful launch and implementation of several programs to advance broadband access, including:

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: California predeploys resources in Nevada, Plumas, and Sierra counties ahead of critical fire weather conditions

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Jul 23, 2025

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today approved the predeployment of firefighting resources in Nevada, Sierra, and Plumas counties in response to critical fire weather conditions forecasted to impact Northern California starting Wednesday, July 23, through Friday, July 25, 2025.

    “The state is again taking proactive measures to protect communities ahead of dangerous fire weather conditions. I ask the residents of Nevada, Plumas, and Sierra counties to pay attention to local authorities and be prepared to evacuate if told to go.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    A total of 14 fire engines, four water tenders, and two dispatchers are prepositioned in Nevada, Sierra and Plumas County. These efforts ensure that resources are ready to respond quickly, minimizing the potential impact of new fires. This proactive approach has proven to be a critical component of California’s wildfire response strategy, reducing response times and containing fires before they escalate into major incidents.

    Today’s announcement follows the recent prepositioning of resources in Plumas and Sierra counties from July 20 to July 22.

    Residents are urged to stay vigilant during this heightened fire weather period. The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) reminds the public to:

    For more information on fire safety and preparedness, visit News.CalOES.ca.gov and Ready.ca.gov.

    Recent news

    News What you need to know: The number of reported stolen vehicles in California has dropped by 13% – the first year-over-year decrease since before the pandemic. Sacramento, California – California continues to lead the way out of the COVID-induced crime surge, as…

    News What you need to know: California is cementing its role as a global economic powerhouse — new data highlights the Golden State’s leadership in innovation, business growth, and AI readiness. SACRAMENTO – California continues to dominate as an economic leader…

    News What you need to know: Governor Gavin Newsom calls on the President to send every soldier home now – this dangerous militarization must end. Los Angeles, California – As pressure continues mounting for the President to end the unlawful deployment of soldiers in…

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces local progress in reducing homelessness

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Jul 23, 2025

    What you need to know: Through Governor Newsom’s support of local government efforts and state investments, California is reversing decades of inaction on homelessness. Last year’s 2024 point-in-time count showed California had outperformed the nation by slowing down the increase in homelessness and California is continuing to show signs of progress as preliminary data for 2025 points to a decrease in homelessness in local communities.

    SACRAMENTO — Building on the administration’s efforts to reverse decades of inaction on housing and homelessness, Governor Newsom today announced continued signs of progress in California. In 2024, California outperformed the nation in slowing down the increase in homelessness.  Last year, while the nation’s unsheltered homelessness increased by nearly 7%, California’s remained nearly flat, increasing by only 0.45%. With new preliminary 2025 point-in-time reporting from some of the state’s largest communities, California is seeing ongoing progress and reductions in homelessness in many communities.  

    “No one in our nation should be without a place to call home. I am proud of the work we are doing together to reverse this decades-old crisis. Together, we are turning the tide on homelessness, but we have more work to do. We have a moral obligation to assist every single Californian in need and that means ensuring that everyone has a roof over their head.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Communities reporting reduced homelessness

    Each year local governments conduct point-in-time counts in January with final numbers reported in December. While the preliminary data reported by communities has not yet been verified by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, initial reporting by locals is encouraging. 

    Communities across California are beginning to see a substantial decrease in the unsheltered homelessness numbers, indicating a strong trend that people experiencing homelessness are accepting shelter, programs, services and housing, in part as a result of unprecedented state investments. California communities are making good progress in getting people off the streets and out of encampments and connecting them with the care they need. 

    For example, the city of San Diego saw a 3.9% decrease in unsheltered homelessness and total homelessness down 13.5%. The county of Riverside reported a 19% decrease in unsheltered homelessness. 

    In the Los Angeles region, unsheltered homelessness has dropped for two years in a row. Preliminary data for 2025 shows that Los Angeles county is expected to report that total homelessness went down by 4%, with unsheltered homelessness reducing by 9.5%. The city of Los Angeles reported that its total homelessness also decreased by 3.4% and unsheltered homelessness went down by 7.9%. 

    Continuums of care serving regional jurisdictions also reported promising news. In San Bernardino county, total homelessness dropped 10.2%, and San Diego county’s total homeless population dropped by 7%. The Bakersfield region also saw a decrease, reducing the number of people experiencing homelessness by 2.3%. 

    Reversing a decades-in-the-making crisis

    The Newsom administration is making significant progress in reversing decades of inaction on homelessness. Between 2014 and 2019—before Governor Newsom took office—unsheltered homelessness in California rose by approximately 37,000 people. Since then, under this Administration, California has significantly slowed that growth, even as many other states have seen worsening trends.

    In 2024, while homelessness increased nationally by over 18%, California limited its overall increase to just 3% — a lower rate than in 40 other states. The state also held the growth of unsheltered homelessness to just 0.45%, compared to a national increase of nearly 7%. States like Florida, Texas, New York, and Illinois saw larger increases both in percentage and absolute numbers. California also achieved the nation’s largest reduction in veteran homelessness and made meaningful progress in reducing youth homelessness.

    New strategies that work

    Since taking office in 2019, Governor Newsom has created unprecedented policy and structural changes in state government to help California better address its housing and homelessness crises, including additional and unprecedented support for local governments, stronger accountability and enforcement, transformational changes to mental health services and state government, and groundbreaking reforms.

    Recent news

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today approved the predeployment of firefighting resources in Nevada, Sierra, and Plumas counties in response to critical fire weather conditions forecasted to impact Northern California starting Wednesday, July 23, through…

    News What you need to know: The number of reported stolen vehicles in California has dropped by 13% – the first year-over-year decrease since before the pandemic. Sacramento, California – California continues to lead the way out of the COVID-induced crime surge, as…

    News What you need to know: California is cementing its role as a global economic powerhouse — new data highlights the Golden State’s leadership in innovation, business growth, and AI readiness. SACRAMENTO – California continues to dominate as an economic leader…

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Markey Urges AI Companies to Reject Trump’s Unconstitutional “Anti-Woke” AI Actions

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Markey says Trump’s AI Action Plan and Executive Order are “factually baseless and patently unconstitutional”

    Set of Letters (PDF)

    Washington (July 23,2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, today sent letters to the chief executive officers of Alphabet, Anthropic, Meta, Microsoft, OpenAI, and xAI, slamming Trump’s AI Action Plan and executive order that prohibits federal agencies from contracting for any artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm that is not “free from top-down ideological bias.”

    In his letters, Senator Markey pointed out the double standard of Republicans complaining about biased AI chatbots even when Grok, the chatbot developed by Elon Musk’s AI company, acknowledged that it was trained to “appeal to the right.” Senator Markey urged the AI companies to fight this unconstitutional executive order and not become pawns in Trump’s effort to eliminate dissent in the United States.

    Senator Markey writes, “In their broad claims about censorship by the tech platforms, Republicans continue to mistake fact-based outcomes for bias against conservatives. Although the right continues to lean heavily on anecdotal examples of Big Tech’s alignment with liberal viewpoints, it ignores even more egregious evidence to the contrary. For example, on May 1, 2025, Grok — the AI chatbot developed by xAI, Elon Musk’s AI company—acknowledged that ‘xAI tried to train me to appeal to the right.’ If OpenAI’s ChatGPT or Google’s Gemini had responded that it was trained to appeal to the left, congressional Republicans would have been outraged and opened an investigation. Instead, they were silent.”

    Senator Markey continues, “Even if the claims of bias were accurate, the Republicans’ effort to use their political power — both through the executive branch and through congressional investigations — to modify the platforms’ speech is dangerous and unconstitutional. Through the AI executive order, Republicans are using state power to pressure private companies to adopt certain political viewpoints, in this case by pressuring the Big Tech companies to ensure that responses from AI chatbots meet some unspecified, vague definition of ideological neutrality. The details and implementation plan for this executive order remain unclear but it will create significant financial incentives for the Big Tech companies — many of whom have multi-million or multi-billion-dollar contracts with the federal government — to ensure their AI chatbots do not produce speech that would upset the Trump administration. This type of interference with private speech is precisely why the U.S. Constitution has a First Amendment.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: QFSCOIN Launches the Most Profitable Platform for Yielding Crypto in 2025, Designed for Global Investors to Earn BTC, LTC, and DOGE coin

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York City, NY, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  Dogecoin (DOGE) is making headlines again, this time, not just for memes and social media hype. Recent on-chain data reveals that whales, the largest investors in the market, are quietly accumulating DOGE. If you want to catch this wave, QFSCOIN offers a seamless solution. With QFSCOIN, users can generate returns from Dogecoin, Bitcoin, and Litecoin directly, without needing any hardware. Daily payouts are automated, and it’s never been easier to start building your crypto income.

    What On-Chain Data Tells Us About Dogecoin Whales
    In crypto markets, whales, large holders of a particular coin, often signal future price movement. Blockchain analytics indicate that whale activity surrounding Dogecoin has steadily increased in recent weeks. These major investors have continued expanding their holdings, suggesting strong confidence in DOGE’s long-term potential.
    When large accumulations occur, it often points to upcoming demand spikes or positive catalysts. This behavior can reduce supply and elevate prices, giving early participants an edge before broader market awareness sets in.

    Why Earn Dogecoin with QFSCOIN Right Now?
    Instead of purchasing DOGE at elevated prices, earning it through QFSCOIN provides a cost-effective and scalable alternative. Since 2019, QFSCOIN, founded in the U.S., has become a leading platform for automated crypto income. It operates secure data centers across the U.S., Canada, Norway, and Iceland, leveraging state-of-the-art technology for performance and efficiency.
    QFSCOIN is fully regulated by U.S. financial authorities, offering peace of mind to users worldwide.

    What Makes QFSCOIN Stand Out?

    • Multi-Coin Support: Generate returns from Bitcoin, Dogecoin, and Litecoin to diversify your crypto holdings.
    • Free Starter Plan: New users receive a $30 bonus and can activate a free 1-day plan immediately.
    • Daily Rewards: Automated payouts are credited to your account every 24 hours.
    • No Equipment Needed: No expensive gear, maintenance, or technical setup.
    • AI-Driven Optimization: Smart algorithms enhance performance and manage risk effectively.
    • Top-Tier Security: SSL encryption and DDoS protection keep your data and funds secure.
    • 24/7 Support: Friendly assistance is available anytime.
    • Referral Program: Earn up to 3% commission by inviting others.

    Flexible Crypto Earning Plans for All Investors
    QFSCOIN offers a wide selection of plans tailored to different investment levels. Here’s a quick overview:

    Plan Value Duration Total Return Interest Rate
    $30 (Free Bonus) 1 Day $30 + $0.90 3.00%
    $100 2 Days $100 + $5 2.50%
    $300 2 Days $300 + $19.20 3.20%
    $1,200 3 Days $1,200 + $144 4.00%
    $3,500 3 Days $3,500 + $630 6.00%
    $10,000 6 Days $10,000 + $5,400 9.00%

    These plans make crypto income accessible to everyone, from cautious beginners to experienced investors. With daily payouts and compounding potential, you can grow your portfolio quickly as DOGE gains traction.

    Why You Should Start Now
    When whales accumulate, demand rises, and so do costs. Earning DOGE may become less efficient or more expensive in the near future. QFSCOIN removes common barriers like electricity bills, cooling systems, or device failures. However, as market demand increases, so might plan rates or difficulty levels. Starting now allows you to secure current pricing and benefit from any upcoming price momentum.

    How to Get Started with QFSCOIN
    Step 1: Choose a Trusted Platform
    QFSCOIN is known for its simple interface, full regulation, and accessible approach. No technical knowledge is needed.
    Step 2: Sign Up
    Register on the QFSCOIN website with your email. New users receive a $30 bonus to activate their first plan, no setup required.
    Step 3: Select a Plan
    Choose the one that fits your budget. You can begin with the free starter or upgrade to premium plans for higher returns.
    Step 4: Start Earning
    Once your plan is active, your DOGE balance grows with automatic daily payouts.

    Final Thoughts
    With whale activity accelerating, Dogecoin could be headed for its next surge. Rather than chasing high prices, QFSCOIN offers a smarter path—earn DOGE passively through a secure, user-friendly, and fully automated platform.
    Whether you’re targeting DOGE, BTC, or LTC, QFSCOIN’s combination of strong regulation, advanced AI optimization, and flexible plans makes it the top crypto earning solution in 2025.

    Don’t wait for the next rally, position yourself now with QFSCOIN.
    Website: https://qfscoin.com
    Twitter: https://x.com/qfscoin
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@qfscoin
    Email: info@qfscoin.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Africa: RESPECT Unveiled: Makes it Easy for EdTech Stakeholders to Embrace African Union Development Agency-New Partnership for Africa’s Development’s (AUDA-NEPAD) Africa EdTech 2030 Vision

    Source: APO – Report:

    RESPECT™ (https://Respect.World), a Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) for Education, was announced today during the STEMtastic Adventures! Africa symposium. RESPECT was developed by the Spix Foundation to make it easy for Africa’s EdTech stakeholders to embrace AUDA NEPAD’s Africa EdTech 2030 Vision and Plan (https://apo-opa.co/4kYulLY), announced earlier this month. AUDA NEPAD’s Vision proposes that, by 2030, “every African student should have access to the world’s best interactive digital courseware—developed in Africa by Africans—on smartphones already present in their pockets, households, and/or schools”.

    With today’s release of RESPECT Version 1, Africa has gained a multi-year head start over the rest of the world. The United Nations has only this year started talking seriously about the need for a DPI for Education (https://apo-opa.co/4m5Xm9h). Africa has already released it. Africa is already ahead. To accomplish the Vision, Africa need only leverage its new advantage to the hilt.

    Speaking at the launch, John Kimotho, EdTech Consultant, Spix Foundation and Head of RESPECT Africa Office, said: “Much of EdTech is pilot-driven and disconnected from education systems, leaving developers without clear growth pathways and teachers with tools that don’t last. RESPECT makes it easy for policymakers, educators, and developers, to build solutions that align with real classroom needs and can grow and last.”

    The launch coincides with AUDA-NEPAD’s release of sobering statistics (https://apo-opa.co/3UfrwLH): only 40% of African primary schools have internet access, an estimated 30 million primary-age children remain out of school, and the continent will need 17 million additional teachers by 2030 just to maintain universal access. Meanwhile, billions in education technology investment have resulted in fragmented, unsustainable pilot projects rather than scalable solutions.

    “Africa has a unique opportunity to simultaneously drive access to free localised edtech solutions that can reach all parts of the education ecosystem, even those offline, while making it profitable and sustainable to develop the world’s best interactive digital courseware, right here in Africa;” said John Kimotho. “The system has been failing the innovators, not the other way around, and RESPECT makes it easy for those innovators to deliver the education technology solutions that Africa’s children need.”

    The scale of market fragmentation

    Recent analysis by the mEducation Alliance (https://apo-opa.co/46VaNEG) revealed that developers must navigate different rules, requirements, and procurement protocols in nearly every African country, resulting in what researchers term “small-batch deployment” – a Kenya pilot here, a Senegal district project there, with each requiring complete retooling.

    The consequence is a paradox: whilst Africa has produced world-class educational technology – from Kenya’s classroom management systems to Senegal’s Wolof-language XamXam platform serving 1.2 million users – these innovations remain largely isolated within their countries of origin.

    “Teachers are experiencing ‘tool fatigue’ from juggling multiple siloed applications with no central access or data integration,” notes the mEducation Alliance’s 2024 report on digital courseware in low- and middle-income countries. “This discourages adoption, even when individual apps are excellent.”

    Key problems – and solutions

    AUDA NEPAD’s Vision and Plan notes two key problems: (1) the lack of real-time, reliable data about what digital courseware works best for different learners, and (2) barriers to scale including policy, commercial, and technological obstacles.

    “AUDA-NEPAD observes that if Africa solves these two problems—by making it easy for courseware to generate real-time data for ranking and research, and by lowering policy, technical, and commercial barriers—then market forces will do the rest,” according to the Vision and Plan.

    All RESPECT Compatible™ apps send data on every learner-app interaction to the relevant authority – within the bounds of the jurisdiction’s data privacy, security, and sovereignty laws – enabling that authority to implement data-dependent techniques such as Teaching at the Right Level and Structured Pedagogy. This data, federated at the continental level, enables courseware ranking and research.

    RESPECT lowers the aforementioned policy barriers by implementing AUDA-NEPAD’s new Policy Framework for Standards-Based, Vendor-Neutral EdTech, a draft of which was released for public comment today.

    RESPECT lowers the technical barriers through the implementation of a range of on-device technologies from data compression, web caching, proxy servers, and mesh networking to make it easy for courseware app developers to write a single app that works online, offline, and intermittently online. Likewise, it has early support for systematic text localization and, eventually, curriculum standards mapping, that are expected to provide easy technological fixes for complex scaling problems. Also, RESPECT enforces interoperability through internationally-standardized APIs such as xAPI, OneRoster, and OAuth.

    RESPECT lowers the commercial barriers by providing all RESPECT Compatible™ apps for free to all students and intermediaries, while paying the developers and localizers of said apps based on those apps’ usage (and later, impact). RESPECT’s revenue, derived from sponsorships, will go primarily to these developers and localizers. Think of it as “YouTube meets PBS Kids” (https://apo-opa.co/3IJTrAC) for EdTech apps.

    Looking ahead

    “The opportunity is historic, but time is short,” concluded Kimotho. “We need to stop lamenting the barriers and start dismantling them systematically.”

    – on behalf of Africa Practice Ltd.

    Note to editors:
    RESPECT and RESPECT Compatible are trademarks of the Spix Foundation.
    RESPECT: https://Respect.World
    Full African EdTech 2030: Vision & Plan: https://apo-opa.co/3UfrwLH
    mEducation Alliance Report – Leading Perspectives on the State of Digital Courseware in Low Resource Countries: https://apo-opa.co/4195XzU

    For interviews, please contact:
    Joslyne Muthoni
    Africa Practice
    jmuthoni@africapractice.com

    Follow RESPECT:
    Website: https://Respect.World
    LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/4kQiD5N

    About RESPECT:
    RESPECT is an open source digital library for EdTech apps. It makes it easier for educators to discover and use high-quality apps in all settings, while giving developers the platform they need to grow their impact globally.

    RESPECT sets strong interoperable technical standards, while enabling developers to monetise their tools through a simple sponsor supported revenue model.

    What RESPECT offers:
    By aligning incentives across policy, pedagogy, and technology, RESPECT makes it easier to access,  build, scale and sustain resilient edtech innovations.

    At its core, RESPECT connects the needs of developers and educators, supporting high quality, locally contextualised tools that reflect real classroom conditions and align with local languages and curriculum goals. It’s about building EdTech that lasts, where it matters most.

    About AUDA-NEPAD:
    The African Union Development Agency-New Partnership for Africa’s Development (AUDA-NEPAD) is the continental development agency of the African Union, established to coordinate and execute priority regional and continental development projects to promote regional integration towards the accelerated achievement of Agenda 2063.

    Full African EdTech 2030: Vision & Plan: https://apo-opa.co/3UfrwLH 

    About STEMtastic Adventures! Africa:
    STEMtastic Adventures! Africa is hosted by the Centre for Mathematics, Science, and Technology Education in Africa (CEMASTEA) from July 22-25, 2025, bringing together leading thinkers, activists, and implementers to advance STEM education across the continent.

    mEducation Alliance Report – Leading Perspectives on the State of Digital Courseware in Low Resource Countries: https://apo-opa.co/4195XzU

    Media files

    .

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI Africa: HSRC to host free training academy to equip researchers for AI

    Source: Government of South Africa

    HSRC to host free training academy to equip researchers for AI

    The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), in collaboration with the University of Pretoria, the University of Zululand and Sol Plaatje University, will host the 6th Annual Emerging and Established African Researcher Training Academy from 28 July to 1 August 2025. 

    The event will be held virtually and will run daily from 8:30am to 4pm.

    This year’s academy is themed, ‘Research excellence reimagined: Preparing tomorrow’s scholars today‘, reflecting the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI) on the research landscape.

    “As AI increasingly transforms how research is designed, conducted, analysed, and communicated, the academy will explore how African scholars can engage with these changes while strengthening foundational research skills,” the statement read. 

    The key focus of the academy is to equip participants with essential competencies in research design, data analysis, and academic writing, while also introducing tools and techniques that integrate AI into the research process. 

    According to the HSRC, participants will examine important questions, such as how to preserve intellectual authenticity while harnessing AI’s transformative capabilities; where computational efficiency ends and human wisdom begins; and how to develop research skills that remain valuable as AI capabilities expand.

    The academy was first launched as an in-person training programme in partnership with the University of Zululand. 

    However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, it transitioned into a virtual format, allowing for broader participation and collaboration across institutions. 

    “Now celebrating its sixth year in this format, the academy continues to evolve by offering both foundational and advanced modules that respond to the changing demands of the research community.” 

    In line with its responsibilities to the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), the HSRC said it supports capacity building in research and research management, and ensures inclusive access to training for marginalised groups. 

    This includes women and persons with disabilities and promotes a culture of lifelong learning among African scholars.

    According to the chairperson of the academy’s organising committee, the HSRC’s Dr Bongiwe Mncwango, the academy aims to foster a collaborative and sustainable research environment, bringing together emerging and established scholars to share ideas, develop research skills, and pursue collaborative initiatives. 

    “The programme also supports career development for early-career researchers and raises awareness about the value of research in addressing Africa’s societal challenges.

    “It is more than training – it’s a strategic investment in the future of African research. As AI revolutionises scholarship, African researchers must be equipped to lead with innovation, integrity, and impact,” said Mncwango.

    Registration information and programme details are available on the HSRC’s website https://hsrc.ac.za/sixth-annual-emerging-and-established-african-researchers-training-academy-2025-2026/. – SAnews.gov.za
     

    Gabisile

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sacramento Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Prison for Sexual Exploitation of Children

    Source: US FBI

    Jayson Fernandez Butay, 30, of Sacramento, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William B. Shubb to 25 years in prison for producing child sexual abuse material and possessing child sexual abuse material, Acting U.S. Attorney Kimberly A. Sanchez announced. Judge Shubb also ordered Butay to pay $118,278 to his victims in restitution.

    According to court documents, in April 2019, Butay used Snapchat to correspond with a 15‑year-old girl living in Finland. Butay lied about his identity and convinced her to send him naked images of herself. Once he received these images, Butay threatened to disclose them to his victim’s family and friends unless she sent him sexually explicit videos. In this way, Butay obtained at least one additional sexually explicit video from the victim. Butay also produced child sexual abuse material depicting additional minor victims, including at least one 9-year-old girl who remains unidentified, using common internet applications.

    Law enforcement agents subsequently executed federal search warrants at Butay’s residence in Sacramento. Agents seized hundreds of images and videos from Butay’s digital devices that depicted the sexual exploitation of children, including infants.

    “This investigation highlights the serious threat sextortionists pose to children who use popular messaging and social media apps,” said FBI Sacramento Field Office Special Agent in Charge Sid Patel. “Online anonymity combined with the natural inexperience of youth creates a dangerous environment that parents must better understand and monitor. The FBI works closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and bring these predators to justice. We urge anyone who has been targeted or victimized to come forward. You are not alone — we will help you.”

    This case was the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sam Stefanki is prosecuting the case.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI: eToro to Announce Product Updates in Global Webinar on July 29, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — eToro Group Ltd. (“eToro”, or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: ETOR), the trading and investing platform, announced today it will host a webinar on Tuesday, July 29, 2025 at 10AM ET / 3PM BST / 4PM CET.

    Hosted by eToro’s Co-founder and CEO, Yoni Assia, the webinar ‘eToro Unlocked: Trade Without Boundaries’ will showcase the latest evolutions in eToro’s product offering and unveil details of what is coming next for users of the global trading and investing platform.

    To hear more about Yoni’s vision and the details of these product updates live, you can register here to join the webinar.

    For the latest on eToro, follow us @eToro.

    About eToro
    eToro is the trading and investing platform that empowers you to invest, share and learn. We were founded in 2007 with the vision of a world where everyone can trade and invest in a simple and transparent way. Today we have 40 million registered users from 75 countries. We believe there is power in shared knowledge and that we can become more successful by investing together. So we’ve created a collaborative investment community designed to provide you with the tools you need to grow your knowledge and wealth. On eToro, you can hold a range of traditional and innovative assets and choose how you invest: trade directly, invest in a portfolio, or copy other investors. You can visit our media center here for our latest news.

    Contact
    Media Relations – pr@etoro.com
    Investor Relations – investors@etoro.com

    eToro is a multi-asset investment platform. The value of your investments may go up or down. Your capital is at risk.

    eToro is a group of companies that are authorised and regulated in their respective jurisdictions. The regulatory authorities overseeing eToro include:

    • The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK
    • The Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) in Cyprus
    • The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) in Australia
    • The Financial Services Authority (FSA) in the Seychelles
    • The Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) of the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) in the UAE

    Source: eToro Group Ltd.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Understanding what AI means to consumers

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Understanding what AI means to consumers

    When we talk about new AI-powered devices and experiences, the focus often lands on the pace of technological progress. But just as quickly, the way people are using these tools—and how they feel about them—is evolving too. 

    To better understand that shifting sentiment, we commissioned new consumer AI research that digs deeper into people’s priorities and perceptions. Going beyond usage data, we examined the emotional undercurrents: what excites people about AI, what gives them pause and how those attitudes shift across generations. 

    What emerged is a more textured view of consumer behavior. In this report, you’ll find insights that add greater dimension to what meaningful AI solutions look like today. 

    The full report is available for download here. 


    From burnout to breakthrough: Americans use AI to move forward

    This consumer AI report examines evolving attitudes toward AI. It presents findings from research conducted by an independent research firm, Edelman Data & Intelligence, among 1,000 consumers in the United States ages 13 and older between March 14, 2025 and March 25, 2025. As both AI tools and human behaviors continue to shift, the report offers a research-backed lens for business leaders, organizations, and curious individuals seeking to understand what’s changing and why. 

    Can AI help an overloaded generation cut through the noise? 

    These days, we have a lot on our minds. 

    We’re living in an era where information has never been so available. Entire histories of societies, bodies of scholarship, and even the details of our own relationships can be pulled up with a single search. But instead of helping us get ahead, it often just adds more noise. Traditional authority has fractured and everywhere we turn, new voices and platforms compete for our attention. In fact, 7 in 10 consumers admit they are overwhelmed by the amount of information available when making a decision. 

    So it’s no surprise that we’re starting to question not just our choices, but how we make them. This is where AI offers a new way forward: our research finds that it counteracts decision fatigue by lightening the mental burden of weighing one’s options. After using AI when making a decision, 84% percent of people report experiencing positive emotion. 

    Majority experience a positive emotion after using AI to make a decision: Eighty-four percent of people felt a positive emotion after using AI when making a decision, with relief and confidence being the two most common. 

    Introducing Generation AI 

    Leading the way is Generation AI, born between 1995 and 2012. Raised on increasingly intuitive digital tools, they’ve learned how to embrace emerging technologies as a support system rather than merely a shortcut—from PCs and mobile devices, to the internet, and now AI. This generation is 16% more likely to use AI tools than those who are older, and when they do, they’re finding more than answers. They’re unlocking a greater sense of relief and confidence, a result that users of all ages can learn from. 

    AI interrupts overthinking, before the spiral starts 

    AI’s mainstream moment comes at a critical time for this generation’s mental health. 

    Generation AI is carrying a compound burden made up of the ambient weight of everyday social pressures, persistent economic uncertainty, digital isolation, and the long tail of a global pandemic. Seventy-two percent of those aged 18-34 rate mental health as a significant stressor, the highest among all age cohorts.  

    With estimates suggesting that the average person can face thousands of choices each day, this mental load is unrelenting. It’s the kind of weight that turns indecision into inaction, leading people to abandon choices that once felt important.  

    Even once we are finally able to make up our minds, it rarely feels like closure. Sixty-eight percent of Generation AI would describe themselves as an “overthinker,” someone who spends a lot of time worrying about their decisions, even after making them. Would-be relief is clouded by doubt, a lingering sense that maybe we missed something better, smarter, or more optimized.  

    But data shows that AI offers overthinkers a different outcome. Across all age groups, respondents were more than twice as likely to feel relieved (30%) or confident (30%) compared to anxious (14%) or frustrated (14%) after using generative AI to make a personal decision.  

    This confidence boost applies to a range of relatable scenarios. Many find support for things they are passionate about, involving AI in decisions around entertainment (34%) or travel (25%). For others, AI proves helpful in moving through more emotionally fraught territory, such as money decisions (35%), health and wellness (35%), and career or job considerations (34%). 

    AI helps make decisions in diverse scenarios: Generative AI helps users make decisions in the following areas: money (35%), health and wellness (35%), career or job (34%), entertainment (34%), and travel (25%).

    Instead of dwelling on these decisions interminably, every prompt becomes a quiet practice in turning uncertainty into action. 

    Creating a safe space for deeper, more helpful answers 

    We are now getting a glimpse into a tech-powered future that is more intuitive, personal, and judgment-free. AI reflects consumers’ curiosity back to them in a way few tools have before. When they need help making a decision, a third of respondents (33%) say they appreciate that AI gives them a clear, personalized response. 

    Getting the right advice has always depended on the gatekeepers of the moment. In the past, information was limited by which experts or institutions one had access to. Even the internet, once seen as the great equalizer, has its limits. The search engines that Generation AI grew up using may have put pages and pages of web results at their fingertips, but they stopped short at turning that data into something truly actionable. This has left 67% of this age group feeling like it is still “hard to find guidance or suggestions that fit my exact situation” when gathering information to answer a question or make a decision.  

    Now, they have somewhere else to turn; a conversational advisor that can match their thirst for knowledge with specificity, flexibility, and patience. When asked about using generative AI for advice, all respondents cite a sense of emotional delicacy, noting how “I can ask as many follow-up questions as I want without feeling bad” (81%) and “AI doesn’t judge me like a person would” (78%). 

    This change in our relationship with information also changes how we learn. Recent research on AI usage found that students aged 18 and older used it more than any other employment group, with 85% reporting usage. Generation AI students are now more likely to rank AI as a helpful study aid (45%) than books (36%) or a one-on-one tutor (27%). 

    The way AI users describe themselves tells us more about their mindset. Those who use AI to make decisions are more likely to say they are “ambitious” (+20ppts), “decisive” (+15ppts), and “problem solvers” (+10 ppts) compared to those who don’t use it. These labels signal how AI might intersect with a generation’s sense of self. 

    AI users describe themselves differently: People who use AI to make decisions are more likely to describe themselves as a problem solver (+10ppts), ambitious (+20ppts), and decisive (+16ppts). 

    While each individual interaction might feel small, these micro-moments of support can foster trust in both the technology itself and in the user’s own ability to choose. 

    Hopeful but not naïve, Generation AI brings discernment to AI asks  

    This isn’t the first time Generation AI has lived through a major technological shift, and it won’t be the last. As true digital natives, they approach any new tool with nuance, carefully weighing the promised benefits against potential tradeoffs. 

    When it comes to AI, 66% of this generation is optimistic that it will improve our lives and the world we live in. While only 15% of all consumers say they fully trust AI when making important decisions, 95% have still used a generative AI tool in the past month—suggesting that people are finding meaningful, appropriate ways to engage with these tools. Rather than blind trust, this is thoughtful adoption: users are integrating AI into their broader decision-making process in ways that feel supportive and safe. 

    Also in the mix? Friends, family, experts, and professionals. But most of all, their own judgment: 59% of consumers trust their gut when making a decision. 

    Trust varies across sources when making important decisions: When making an important decision, 15% trust AI—less than their own gut (59%), advice from friends or family (44%), or web search results (37%), the same as teachers (15%), and more than social media influencers (11%) or political leaders (7%).

    Call it curiosity, caution, or a carefully balanced blend of both. While 59% of all respondents used generative AI for work and business purposes in the past year, even more have explored how it might fit into their personal lives. Sixty-four percent report using AI for hobbies and personal interests, such as art music, or DIY projects.  

    AI can help sort through today’s information overload until one’s instincts take over. It summarizes information so that it is easier to understand (34% of use cases), shows different options that users hadn’t thought about (31%), and compares choices by showing pros and cons (30%).  

    Turning to AI in these everyday moments builds a rhythm of trust—measured, useful, and often accompanied by a sense of relief. With just enough structure to help people make sense of pressing considerations, these tools make confident decision-making possible.  

    In a world that often feels like too much, AI offers something rare: relief 

    Our research shows that American consumers are taking the emotional edge off decision-making by bolstering their own judgement with AI-powered tools that offer clarity, curiosity, and calm. 

    AI reshapes what it feels like to choose. The “before”—that data-gathering phase—is shorter, more streamlined. Information is delivered clearly, without overload or judgment. The “after” feels different too, marked by reassurance instead of regret. Instead of spiraling over making the right call, individuals experience a sturdy sense of confidence.  

    The proof is in the practice: using these tools as Generation AI does, for everyday decisions both big and small, changes what’s possible. Over time, it builds the kind of momentum that moves people through uncertainty, not just around it. And when faced with the daily thrum of decisions, it helps them trust themselves enough to move forward.   

     

     

    MIL OSI Global Banks

  • MIL-OSI: Aptean Launches GenAI Query in AppCentral  

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ATLANTA, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  Aptean, a global provider of enterprise software, today announced the launch of GenAI Query, a mobile-first conversational intelligence feature within AppCentral, its AI-powered platform. Purpose-built to deliver real-time insights from complex business data, GenAI Query eliminates the need for dashboards, technical expertise, or delays.   

    GenAI Query empowers frontline managers; operations leads and finance teams to ask natural-language questions like: 

    “Where are my fulfilment bottlenecks?”  

    “Which SKUs are eroding our margin?”

    They receive real-time answers, right when and where decisions are made. GenAI Query cuts through reporting delays and streamlines decision-making across every level of the organization.

    Modern manufacturing and distribution teams operate under relentless pressure to move fast — yet decision-making is often stalled by complex reports, fragmented systems and manual analysis. Buried in complex reports, fragmented systems and manual analysis, information remains out of reach. The result? A widening gap between data and decisive action.  

    GenAI Query is the intelligence engine of AppCentral and a cornerstone of the Aptean Intelligence Suite. What sets it apart is Aptean’s deep industry expertise and its ability to deliver tailored insights across discrete manufacturing, food and beverage, finance, transportation and apparel. With seamless integration and enterprise-grade security features – such as role-based access and audit trails – GenAI Query accelerates data-driven decision-making without compromising control. 

    GenAI Query transforms enterprise decision-making by:

    • Unlocking insights – Replacing static dashboards with real-time conversational intelligence 
    • Revealing hidden risks – Surfacing margin pressure, customer churn signals and operational inefficiencies through AI 
    • Accelerating action – Empowering teams to explore data freely, without IT delays or report rebuilds 
    • Bringing data together – Unifying live ERP inputs across inventory, purchasing, sales, receivables and payables.  
    • Eliminating reporting delays – Removing the complexity of data extraction and interpretation. 

    AppCentral is the foundation for our customers to harness the power of AI – GenAI Query is the intelligence that brings it to life,” said TVN Reddy, CEO of Aptean.  “It’s the difference between staring at a dashboard and having a direct, insightful conversation with your business. Customers don’t just want data – they need clear answers that drive better outcomes. GenAI Query puts real-time enterprise intelligence at their fingertips.” 

    “GenAI Query makes business data instantly useful,” Reddy continued. “Ask a simple question like ‘What’s my inventory risk this week?’ and get contextual insight drawn straight from live systems. No coding. No delay. Just answers – delivered precisely when and where they’re needed. With GenAI Query, every employee becomes an insight-driven decision-maker. The future of enterprise intelligence is immediate and conversational.” 

    With thousands of customers now onboarded to AppCentral, Aptean is accelerating scalable AI adoption – giving customers the clarity, speed and control they need to make faster, smarter decisions. 

    About Aptean:
    Aptean is a global provider of industry-specific software that helps manufacturers and distributors effectively run and grow their businesses. Aptean’s solutions and services help businesses of all sizes to be Ready for What’s Next, Now®. Aptean is headquartered in Alpharetta, Georgia and has offices in North America, Europe and Asia-Pacific. To learn more about Aptean and the markets we serve, visit www.aptean.com.

    Logility is a Registered Trademark of Logility, Inc. Aptean and Ready for What’s Next, Now are Registered Trademarks of Aptean, Inc. All other company and product names are trademarks of the respective companies with which they are associated. 

    MEDIA INQUIRIES

    MediaRelations@Aptean.com

    A PDF accompanying this announcement is available at 

    http://ml.globenewswire.com/Resource/Download/db5e0b9b-d38b-46df-b8ef-d3510e489c71

    A video accompanying this announcement is available at 

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d3fed0b1-f5af-4512-aece-05b54b639787

     

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 23 July 2025 Departmental update First-ever guidance for Triple Elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B

    Source: World Health Organisation

    The global community has committed to the Triple Elimination of mother-to-child transmission (EMTCT) of HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B virus (HBV) as a public health priority. This global commitment encourages countries to provide the most effective, high-quality and person-centred care available to pregnant and breastfeeding women and girls. In so doing, countries aim to ensure a generation born free of HIV, syphilis and HBV. 

    At the 13th International AIDS Society (IAS) Conference on HIV Science held in Kigali, Rwanda, from 13-17 July 2025, WHO presented the first-ever guidance for countries to develop comprehensive and integrated programmes for Triple Elimination. 

    The new guidance is based on the WHO Triple Elimination Framework, which promotes an integrated, person-centred approach to preventing transmission of these infections from mothers to their infants along 4 pillars and 4 cross-cutting implementation considerations. The guidance also outlines a comprehensive strategy for governments, health-care providers and relevant stakeholders to assess, improve and scale-up elimination programmes. 

    “The release of this new guidance marks a critical milestone in our collective efforts to end mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B virus,” said Dr Meg Doherty, Director of WHO’s Global HIV, Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections Programmes. “It comes at a time when integrated approaches to maternal and child health are needed more than ever to ensure achievement of global targets by 2030 and safeguard the health of future generations.”

    Country case studies are presented to illustrate some good practices and to offer models to inform development of country roadmaps for eliminating vertical transmission by 2030.

    Country examples and lessons for Triple Elimination

    Kenya began its triple elimination journey in 2018 by designating a focal team leading to the development of a framework for the EMTCT of HIV, syphilis and HBV in 2022–2023 and establishment of a dedicated Triple Elimination Technical Working Group in 2024. Oversight and operationalization are decentralized to county and sub-county levels for capacity-building and supervision. Representatives of people living with HIV are engaged in advocacy, community sensitization and participation in the development and validation of the national triple elimination framework for 2022-2027.

    Kenya offers a range of EMTCT services and documents best practices, relating to the mentoring of mothers, creation and management of peer support groups, dual HIV/syphilis testing and more. The country is working toward introducing a universal HBV birth dose, integrating syphilis and hepatitis B into the MNCH electronic medical record module, diagnosing infants early and addressing commodity shortages. 

    Namibia expanded the 2020 dual HIV/syphilis elimination strategy to include hepatitis B into a triple elimination strategy in 2023. A situational analysis and stakeholder consultation informed its 2020–2024 roadmap. The country developed an operational plan, updated guidelines, and integrated triple elimination into training and health information systems.

    In 2023, WHO awarded Namibia at the bronze tier for the Path to Elimination of MTCT of HIV. Namibia is also the first and only country to be awarded on the Path to Elimination of MTCT of hepatitis B virus at the silver tier.

    To learn more about the experiences in Kenya and Namibia, see Country Case Examples in Chapter 6

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: 3rd Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors Meeting

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Statement

    July 18, 2025

    We, the G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors (FMCBG), met on 17 and 18 July 2025, in Durban, South Africa. Under the G20 South African Presidency’s “Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability” theme, we committed to international policy cooperation to further promote global prosperity and address key shared challenges.

    Global Economy

    The global economy is facing heightened uncertainty and complex challenges, including ongoing wars and conflicts, geopolitical and trade tensions, disruptions to global supply chains, high debt levels, and frequent extreme weather events and natural disasters, which impact economic growth, financial and price stability. 

    In light of high public debt and fiscal pressures, we recognise the need to raise long-term growth potential by pursuing growth-oriented macroeconomic policies, while building fiscal buffers, ensuring fiscal sustainability, encouraging public and private investments and undertaking productivity-enhancing reforms. Structural reforms are essential for generating strong economic growth and creating more and better jobs. All excessive imbalances should be further analysed by the IMF and, if necessary and, without discrimination, addressed through country-specific reforms and multilateral coordination, in a way that contributes to an open global economy and without compromising sustainable global growth. We reaffirm our April 2021 exchange rate commitment.

    Central banks are strongly committed to ensuring price stability, consistent with their respective mandates, and will continue to adjust their policies in a data-dependent manner. Central bank independence is crucial to achieving this goal. 
     
    We emphasise the importance of strengthening multilateral cooperation to address existing and emerging risks to the global economy. We will continue to pursue efforts that advance prosperity and recognise the importance of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) to advance trade issues, and acknowledge the agreed upon rules in the WTO as an integral part of the global trading system. We recognise the WTO has challenges and needs meaningful, necessary, and comprehensive reform to improve all its functions, through innovative approaches, to be more relevant and responsive in light of today’s realities.

    We note the progress on the priorities of the Framework Working Group and look forward to the respective outcomes.  

    International Financial Architecture

    The Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) are implementing the G20 MDB Roadmap and the recommendations from the Capital Adequacy Framework (CAF) Report. We acknowledge the progress of MDBs and the IFA Working Group in developing the Monitoring and Reporting Framework, and expect to receive the inaugural report in October. We further acknowledge CAF’s potential to help MDBs more efficiently utilise existing resources, share more risk with the private sector and utilise new instruments to increase lending capacity over the next decade. We also welcome the collaboration on blended finance among the International Finance Corporation and other MDBs. We look forward to the outcome of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development’s 2025 Shareholding Review, in line with the Lima Shareholding principles.

    We support the 17th replenishment of the African Development Fund. We acknowledge the strategic importance of an enhanced G20 partnership with African economies, including through strengthening the G20 Compact with Africa, and welcome the Presidency’s side event on Mobilising G20 Investment for Sustainable Growth in Africa. We welcome the work initiated by the Presidency on the impediments to growth and development in Africa.

    We are committed to addressing debt vulnerabilities in low- and middle-income countries in an effective, comprehensive and systematic manner. To this end, we reaffirm our commitment to further strengthen the implementation of the G20 Common Framework (CF) in a predictable, timely, orderly, and coordinated manner. We endorse the G20 note on lessons learned from initial CF cases and the document outlining debt treatment steps. We welcome that the fact sheets on CF cases are now available on the G20 and Paris Club websites to enhance information sharing. We welcome the agreement on the Memorandum of Understanding on a debt treatment between Ethiopia and its Official Creditors Committee. We furthermore call for enhanced debt transparency from all stakeholders, including private creditors.

    We urge the international community to support vulnerable countries whose debt is sustainable but are facing liquidity challenges, and encourage the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank to continue their work on feasible options to support these countries, which should be country-specific and voluntary.

    We acknowledge the G20 note on Special Drawing Rights (SDR) channelling. We note the achievement of exceeding USD 100 billion in voluntary channelling of SDRs or equivalent contributions for countries in need, and the transfer to the Poverty Reduction and Growth Trust and the Resilience and Sustainability Trust. We urge the swift delivery of pending pledges and encourage countries that are willing and legally able to explore channelling SDRs to MDBs while respecting the reserve asset status of the resulting SDR-denominated claims and ensuring their liquidity.

    We reaffirm our commitment to a strong, quota-based, and adequately resourced IMF at the centre of the Global Financial Safety Net. We have advanced the domestic approvals for our consent to the quota increase under the 16th General Review of Quotas, and we look forward to finalising this process with no further delay.  We acknowledge the importance of realignment in quota shares to better reflect members’ relative positions in the world economy while protecting the quota shares of the poorest members. We acknowledge, however, that building consensus among members on quota and governance reforms will require progress in stages.   We support the call for the IMF Executive Board to develop a set of principles guiding future discussions on IMF quotas and governance by the 2026 Spring meetings in line with the Diriyah Declaration.

    We underscore the need for enhancing the representation and voice of developing countries in decision-making in MDBs and other international economic and financial institutions. In that context, we welcome the creation of a 25th chair at the IMF Executive Board to enhance the voice and representation of Sub-Saharan Africa.

    We remain committed to promoting sustainable capital flows to EMDEs and fostering sound policy frameworks, notably central bank independence. We note the growing role of non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs) and ongoing work to understand the impact on capital flows.

    Sustainable Finance

    We note a commitment to strengthen the global sustainable finance architecture by helping to ensure robust, resilient and effective coordination among stakeholders to foster interoperability among MDBs, Vertical Climate and Environment Funds, and National Development Banks, in support of sustainability goals and national priorities, as appropriate. Scaling up co-financing and mobilising private sector resources by improving efficiency and promoting the use of innovative financial instruments is essential for developing countries’ risk-sharing in country-led climate investments.

    We acknowledge progress on tailoring key considerations that integrate adaptation and resilience into the voluntary transition plans of financial institutions and corporations. These efforts may support vulnerable sectors in moving towards sustainable and climate-resilient economies. We look forward to continued work related to more effective funding mechanisms for adaptation and promote flexible country-tailored solutions that address natural catastrophe insurance protection gaps by developing practical guidance and tools.

    We take note of the potential of high-integrity, voluntary, private-sector led carbon markets, including by promoting interoperability, accessibility, transparency and scalability. We note the efforts by the Climate Data Steering Committee to develop principles aimed towards building a Common Carbon Credit Data Model, as a voluntary tool.

    We note the progress made thus far on the multi-year G20 Sustainable Finance Roadmap which is flexible and voluntary in nature.

    Infrastructure

    Recognising that increasing quality infrastructure investment is critical to support faster and sustainable economic growth and development, we note the progress made in the development of a framework for effective planning and preparation practices, a report on scaling up blended finance de-risking measures, and a toolkit on advancing cross-border infrastructure projects. We also endorse the Practice Guide on Leveraging Project-Level Data and Digitising the Pipeline, and a Note on Improving the Accessibility and Availability of Key Market Data, which are voluntary and non-binding.

    Financial Sector Issues and Financial Inclusion

    We reaffirm our commitment to addressing vulnerabilities and promoting an open, resilient, and stable financial system, which supports economic growth, and is based on the consistent, full and timely implementation of all agreed upon reforms and international standards, including Basel III. We note the growing role of NBFIs in both EMDEs and AEs, and support the Financial Stability Board’s (FSB) work to address NBFI data availability and reporting, quality, use, and information sharing. We endorse the recently finalised FSB recommendations for addressing systemic risks from NBFI leverage and encourage implementation by jurisdictions. We welcome the appointment of the new FSB Chair, Andrew Bailey, Governor of the Bank of England.

    We reaffirm our commitment to the effective implementation of the G20 Roadmap for Enhancing Cross-border Payments (the Roadmap) as well as appropriate further actions as necessary to deliver on the Roadmap’s goals.  We welcome the initiatives undertaken by the FSB, the Bank for International Settlements’ (BIS) Committee on Payments and Market Infrastructures, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), and other international organisations to advance progress in its implementation. We welcome the launch of the BIS Innovation Hub-G20 TechSprint 2025, which aims to promote innovative solutions that improve trust and integrity in open and scalable finance. We note the update on the FSB Roadmap for addressing climate-related financial risks and the upcoming FSB thematic peer review on the implementation of the high-level crypto assets and stablecoin recommendations.

    We reaffirm our commitment to support the FATF and FATF-Style Regional Bodies in overseeing the implementation of the FATF Standards to combat money laundering, terrorist financing and proliferation financing across the Global Network. In particular, we reiterate the importance of stepping up global efforts to combat the misuse of legal entities, to foster increased asset recovery, to enhance payments transparency, and to promote innovation in the virtual assets sector, while mitigating illicit finance involving virtual assets. We also support FATFs ongoing work on emerging technologies and associated risks including from DeFi arrangements, stablecoins, and peer-to-peer transactions.

    We reaffirm our commitment to financial inclusion and to promoting access to financial services for individuals and micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). We welcome insights from the Presidency’s Priority Paper on “Moving from Access to Usage,” which offers innovative approaches to enhance the use of financial services across payments, savings, credit, insurance, and remittances. We support the ongoing implementation of the G20 Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion Action Plan for MSME Financing. We also welcome the deliverable to explore the role of new and innovative technologies in enhancing the quality of financial inclusion for individuals and MSMEs.

    International Taxation

    We will continue engaging constructively to address concerns regarding Pillar Two global minimum taxes, with the shared goal of finding a balanced and practical solution that is acceptable for all. Delivery of a solution will  need to include a commitment to ensure any substantial risks that may be identified with respect to the level playing field, including a discussion of the fair treatment of substance-based tax incentives, and risks of base erosion and profit shifting, are addressed and will facilitate further progress to stabilise the international tax system, including a constructive dialogue on the tax challenges arising from the digitalisation of the economy. These efforts will be advanced in close cooperation across the membership of the OECD/G20 Inclusive Framework (IF), preserving the tax sovereignty of all countries. We look forward to the OECD and Global Forum stock take report on tax transparency; the IF stock take report on BEPS; the OECD report on the exchange of real estate information on a voluntary basis to combat tax evasion and avoidance; the Platform for Collaboration on Tax (PCT) report on the progress in strengthening capacity-building frameworks to enhance technical assistance; and the IMF report on strengthening revenue administrations to improve domestic revenue mobilisation (DRM). We welcome the announcement of the PCT to hold the Tax and Development Conference, with a focus on DRM, in Tokyo next year.

    Recalling the G20 Rio de Janeiro Ministerial declaration on International Tax Cooperation, we welcome the IF’s decision to adopt a phased, evidence-based approach to explore global mobility and understand the interaction between tax policy, inequality and growth. We also welcome discussions to enhance the effectiveness and inclusivity of the IF. We note the ongoing negotiations to establish a United Nations Framework Convention on International Tax Cooperation and the participating G20 members reaffirm the objectives to reach broad consensus and build on existing achievements, processes and on the ongoing work of other international organisations, while seeking to avoid unnecessary duplication of efforts.

    Joint Finance Health Task Force

    The Joint Finance-Health Task Force (JFHTF) remains committed to strengthened finance and health co-ordination in relation to pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response (PPR). We emphasise the importance of efficient and effective health spending and domestic resource mobilisation, given the current reductions in donor assistance, as well as the need for better coordination and alignment of external and domestic funding flows. We note the preliminary insights of the updated versions of the Global Report on the Framework for Economic Vulnerabilities and Risks (FEVR) and of the Operational Playbook for response financing. We also note the Simulation exercises on pandemic response financing undertaken by finance and health officials and look forward to further exercises. We note the independent Joint Finance Health Task Force stocktake report, note the focused reconvening of the High-Level Independent Panel, and will continue to work with the Pandemic Fund and other global health funds that catalyse international and domestic investment actions to strengthen pandemic prevention, preparedness and responses.

    We note the outcome of the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development, held from June 30 to July 3, 2025, in Seville, Spain, and the renewed commitment by participating countries to support developing countries in achieving their development objectives.

    We acknowledge the upcoming COP30 in Belém and note participating countries’ engagement within the COP30 Circle of Finance Ministers.

    We concluded our first cycle of G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors meetings on the vibrant continent of Africa, joining the people of South Africa in celebrating Nelson Mandela Day. Our discussions over the past two days centred on creating a better world, embodying the spirit of Mandela’s values. We look forward to our next meeting in October 2025 in Washington, D.C.

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner, Kaine, and Colleagues Press FAA on Federal Workforce Cuts and Use of AI on Aviation Safety

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) joined Senator Edward J. Markey (D-MA) and nine of their Senate colleagues in sending a letter to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator Bryan Bedford requesting answers on the impact of FAA workforce reductions on aviation safety, including among analytical staff who proactively identify safety risks. The senators also inquired about comments by FAA officials suggesting the agency is using artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze safety data to identify risks.

    “The tragic crash of American Airlines flight 5342 highlighted serious gaps in our aviation safety system and demonstrated the need for a robust and experienced analytical workforce at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Unfortunately, over the past six months, your agency has significantly reduced its workforce. We are deeply concerned about these reductions’ impact on aviation safety, the lawmakers wrote.

    “The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigation into the crash of American Airlines flight 5342 has demonstrated the need for a robust FAA workforce, beyond the air traffic controllers and other FAA personnel on the front lines of our aviation system. According to the NTSB investigation, more than 15,000 ‘close proximity events’ occurred at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport over the last five years—reflecting a shockingly high trend that the FAA should have identified…It’s critical that this Administration ensures the FAA has the workforce capacity to proactively and properly analyze aviation safety data to prevent another crash like the American Airlines flight 5342 tragedy,” the senators continued.  

    “In the aftermath of the crash, the FAA should be analyzing the near miss data from events at Reagan National Airport and reviewing the sufficiency of FAA staffing. Instead, the agency has moved ahead with workforce reductions. In particular, FAA fired hundreds of probationary employees in critical support roles key to assisting air traffic controllers in doing their jobs,” the lawmakers wrote. 

    The lawmakers requested the following information by August 11, 2025:

    1. For each FAA line of business and its relevant suboffices, please provide the (a) number of employees employed as of January 1, 2025, (b) number of employees employed as of July 1, 2025, and (c) the current number of job openings. 
    2. For each FAA line of business and its relevant suboffices, please indicate whether any of its job positions are currently subject to a hiring freeze as of January 20, 2025.
    3. Please provide the analysis conducted by the Office of Airports related to the impact of workforce cuts on its safety mission.
    4. Besides the Office of Airports, please explain if any other FAA line of business has conducted an analysis of the impact of workforce cuts on its ability to deliver its mission. If so, please provide those analyses. 
    5. Please explain all relevant FAA lines of business and relevant suboffices charged with identifying aviation safety trends and possible safety risks affecting airport operations in congested airspace. 
    6. What specific AI tools is the FAA using to analyze aviation safety impacts and flight data and how is this improving FAA’s analysis? Does the FAA have adequate staff, familiar with these tools, to manage this analysis and ensure the security of the data used and generated by AI?

    In addition to Warner, Kaine, and Markey, the letter was cosigned by Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Peter Welch (D-VT). 

    Warner and Kaine have long championed aviation safety and spoken out against federal workforce reductions at the FAA and other agencies. Following the January 29, 2025 collision between an Army Black Hawk helicopter and American Airlines flight 5342 near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), Warner and Kaine demanded answers from the FAA on additional safety measures to protect the public and expressed concerns about the impact of the “Department of Government Efficiency” in addressing issues that led to the mid-air collision. The senators also introduced legislation to strengthen aviation safety. Kaine, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, successfully got a provision included in the committee-passed Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act to require that all Department of Defense aircraft that operate near commercial airports be equipped with broadcast positioning technology. Earlier this year, Kaine invited Jason King, a veteran from Fairfax who was fired from his position in the FAA’s safety division, as his guest to the State of the Union address. King was rehired after the State of the Union. 

    Full text of the letter is available here and below: 

    Dear Administrator Bedford,

    The tragic crash of American Airlines flight 5342 highlighted serious gaps in our aviation safety system and demonstrated the need for a robust and experienced analytical workforce at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Unfortunately, over the past six months, your agency has significantly reduced its workforce. We are deeply concerned about these reductions’ impact on aviation safety. We therefore write to request information on changes in the FAA workforce and their impact on aviation safety, including any analyses that the FAA has conducted on the effects of workforce reductions on the agency’s safety mission. 

    The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigation into the crash of American Airlines flight 5342 has demonstrated the need for a robust FAA workforce, beyond the air traffic controllers and other FAA personnel on the front lines of our aviation system. According to the NTSB investigation, more than 15,000 “close proximity events” occurred at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport over the last five years — reflecting a shockingly high trend that the FAA should have identified. At a Senate Commerce Committee hearing in March, the then-Acting FAA Administrator Chris Rocheleau acknowledged that the agency missed this warning sign, in part because of the sheer volume of data that FAA personnel must analyze. The Acting Administrator’s testimony illustrated the need for an FAA workforce robust and experienced enough to analyze all relevant data and identify safety risks. It’s critical that this Administration ensures the FAA has the workforce capacity to proactively and properly analyze aviation safety data to prevent another crash like the American Airlines flight 5342 tragedy.

    Despite this clear need for enhanced analytical capacity, the FAA has instead moved to reduce its workforce during this critical period. In the aftermath of the crash, the FAA should be analyzing the near miss data from events at Reagan National Airport and reviewing the sufficiency of FAA staffing. Instead, the agency has moved ahead with workforce reductions. In particular, FAA fired hundreds of probationary employees in critical support roles key to assisting air traffic controllers in doing their jobs. With the Department of Transportation (DOT) pushing personnel to leave via two rounds of the Deferred Resignation Program — under which employees could elect to resign and receive pay until September 2025 — coupled with the federal hiring freeze, federal officials are leaving their jobs and it may be difficult for the FAA to attract new, qualified employees. Although the DOT assured Senators that key FAA safety staff were exempt from firings and the Deferred Resignation Program, the FAA has still not clarified whether it has the staff it needs to ensure the safety of the American public. Estimates from the DOT suggest that between 1,000 and 3,000 employees may leave the agency once the Deferred Resignation Program offers are finalized. According to an internal presentation to FAA management: “Employees are departing the agency in mass quantities across all skill levels.” Most recently, the Department of Transportation may now be able to move ahead with a large Reduction in Force after the Supreme Court’s recent ruling allowing federal agencies to move forward with staffing cuts consistent with existing federal law. This moment — after a tragic crash highlighted critical gaps in aviation safety — seems like precisely the wrong time for the FAA to aggressively shrink its workforce.

    Moreover, the FAA’s recent announcement that it is using artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze its data — without explaining whether such AI tools are reliable or effective — provides little reassurance to the public. While we support the use of technology to improve how aviation safety data is used, the decision to rely on technological fixes while simultaneously moving ahead with staffing reductions is deeply worrisome. The FAA has not been transparent with Congress about the types of technology it is now using, whether those technologies are replacing, augmenting, or otherwise impacting the FAA workforce, or whether it requires human review of AI analyses before using any analysis in a safety-related decision. This reliance on technological fixes — without a transparent analysis of the FAA’s workforce levels and capacity— raises questions about the FAA’s commitment to prioritizing safety.

    If the FAA lacks the staff to identify safety risks before future incidents occur, Congress must be informed of this as soon as possible. At a recent Senate Commerce Committee hearing, Senators questioned FAA officials from the Office of Airports, the Office of Aviation Safety, and the Air Traffic Organization about the personnel reductions at their respective offices and whether their offices had conducted any analysis on the impact of these workforce cuts on aviation safety. Only the head of the FAA Office of Airports — which is charged with planning and developing a safe and efficient national airport system — responded that his Office had conducted such an analysis. Senators urged the FAA to turn over that analysis to the Committee, along with data on any workforce reductions, but to date it has not. It is essential that Congress have sufficient information to understand the impact of recent FAA personnel changes on aviation safety.

    To better understand the impact of FAA workforce reductions on aviation safety, please provide written responses to the following questions and requests for information by August 11, 2025:

    1. For each FAA line of business and its relevant suboffices, please provide the (a) number of employees employed as of January 1, 2025, (b) number of employees employed as of July 1, 2025, and (c) the current number of job openings.
    2. For each FAA line of business and its relevant suboffices, please indicate whether any of its job positions are currently subject to a hiring freeze as of January 20, 2025.
    3. Please provide the analysis conducted by the Office of Airports related to the impact of workforce cuts on its safety mission.
    4. Besides the Office of Airports, please explain if any other FAA line of business has conducted an analysis of the impact of workforce cuts on its ability to deliver its mission. If so, please provide those analyses.
    5. Please explain all relevant FAA lines of business and relevant suboffices charged with identifying aviation safety trends and possible safety risks affecting airport operations in congested airspace.
    6. What specific AI tools is the FAA using to analyze aviation safety impacts and flight data and how is this improving FAA’s analysis?
      1. Does the FAA have adequate staff, familiar with these tools, to manage this analysis and ensure the security of the data used and generated by AI?
      2. How were these AI tools selected? Please describe the specific testing or evaluation conducted in advance of the implementation of the tools and provide a copy of any reports or conclusions produced. If no testing or evaluation occurred, please explain why not.

    Thank you in advance for your attention to this matter. 

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: New Presentation Connects Starlink to America’s Digital Future—Altucher Flags August 13 as Possible Key Moment

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Austin, TX, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — newly released presentation by author and tech entrepreneur James Altucher is raising alarms about a potential digital turning point centered around Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite network. The presentation focuses on a trail of public comments, behind-the-scenes meetings, and a critical upcoming date—August 13, 2025.

    According to Altucher, that date could signify the moment Starlink steps out of the shadows and into the spotlight—transforming not just how the world connects, but who controls that connection.

    An Off-Grid Network With On-Grid Power

    Altucher argues that Starlink isn’t simply a tool for high-speed internet access. It’s a sovereign, space-based grid designed to bypass traditional infrastructure—and with it, traditional oversight.

    He believes this kind of system—if made public on a mass scale—could permanently shift the balance of digital power in the U.S. and abroad.

    A Quiet Meeting, a Loud Signal

    The kick-off point for Altucher’s prediction is a meeting between Elon Musk and industry insiders. Altucher says the meeting may have triggered the acceleration of a long-planned shift in how Starlink is positioned globally.

    Altucher says that while most Americans were focused on other headlines, this high-level discussion could be the real story.

    The Countdown Is Already Underway

    Throughout the presentation, Altucher repeats one date: August 13, 2025.

    He believes this moment could mark the beginning of a public rollout—possibly a structural transformation of Starlink itself. “After this date, the window could slam shut—and you may never have this same chance again,” he says.

    He adds, “This is about timing. Not timing the market—but recognizing the moments when everything changes”

    About James Altucher

    James Altucher is a tech entrepreneur, bestselling author, and longtime observer of disruptive innovation. He has founded or co-founded more than 20 companies, authored 25+ books including Choose Yourself and Skip the Line, and contributed to top outlets such as The Wall Street Journal, TechCrunch, and Forbes. He’s also a frequent guest on CNBC, Fox Business, and other major media platforms. Altucher’s work focuses on identifying turning points in technology and economics—before they go mainstream.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Music Licensing, Inc. (OTC: SONG) Enters Retainer Agreement with PCAOB-Registered Audit Firm for Review of Semi-Annual 2025 Financial Statements

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NAPLES, FL, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Music Licensing, Inc. (OTC: SONG), also known as Pro Music Rights, a diversified holding company and the fifth public performance rights organization (PRO) established in the United States, today announced that it has officially executed a retainer agreement with a Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB)-registered audit firm. The agreement covers the review of the Company’s semi-annual financial statements for the period ending June 30, 2025.

    This engagement represents a critical milestone in the Company’s broader plan to adopt and maintain PCAOB-compliant financial reporting standards. It reflects a long-term commitment to enhancing transparency, supporting regulatory compliance, and upholding best practices in financial governance.

    The formal retention of a PCAOB-registered firm follows the Company’s July 2, 2025 announcement regarding its intention to pursue annual audits and periodic reviews of financial statements. With the agreement now in place, the Company expects to proceed with the independent review process and release its semi-annual 2025 financials accordingly.

    The initiative is designed to strengthen the integrity of the Company’s financial disclosures, build investor confidence, and support current and future capital markets activities.

    Music Licensing, Inc. licenses music to leading platforms and businesses globally, including TikTok, iHeartMedia, Triller, Napster, 7Digital, and Vevo. The Company holds an estimated 7.4% share of the U.S. public performance rights market and administers a catalog of over 2.5 million musical works. This includes works by high-profile recording artists as well as content generated through artificial intelligence (AI) platforms.

    The Company also maintains royalty interests in Listerine “Mouthwash” Antiseptic and in a large portfolio of musical works performed by internationally recognized artists such as The Weeknd, Justin Bieber, Kanye West, Elton John, Rihanna, Lil Nas X, and others.

    This step positions the Company for continued operational growth, improved transparency, and future scalability in line with public company reporting standards.

    About Music Licensing, Inc. (OTC: SONG) (ProMusicRights.com)

    About Music Licensing, Inc. (OTC:SONG)  (ProMusicRights.com)

    Music Licensing, Inc. (OTC: SONG), also known as Pro Music Rights, is a diversified holding company and the fifth public performance rights organization (PRO) established in the United States. It is recognized under the federal registry of the United States government. The company licenses music to some of the most prominent platforms and businesses, including TikTok, iHeartMedia, Triller, Napster, 7Digital, Vevo, and many others.

    Pro Music Rights holds an estimated 7.4% market share in the United States, representing a catalog of more than 2.5 million works by notable artists such as A$AP Rocky, Wiz Khalifa, Pharrell, Young Jeezy, Juelz Santana, Lil Yachty, MoneyBagg Yo, Larry June, Trae Pound, Sauce Walka, Trae Tha Truth, Sosamann, Soulja Boy, Lex Luger, Trauma Tone, Lud Foe, SlowBucks, Gunplay, OG Maco, Rich The Kid, Fat Trel, Young Scooter, Nipsey Hussle, Famous Dex, Boosie Badazz, Shy Glizzy, 2 Chainz, Migos, Gucci Mane, Young Dolph, Trinidad James, Chingy, Lil Gnar, 3OhBlack, Curren$y, Fall Out Boy, Money Man, Dej Loaf, Lil Uzi Vert, and many others, including works generated by artificial intelligence (AI).

    Additionally, Music Licensing, Inc. (OTC: SONG) holds royalty interests in Listerine “Mouthwash” Antiseptic and a vast portfolio of musical works by globally renowned artists, including The Weeknd, Justin Bieber, Kanye West, Elton John, Mike Posner, blackbear, Lil Nas X, Lil Yachty, DaBaby, Stunna 4 Vegas, Miley Cyrus, Lil Wayne, XXXTentacion, BlueFace, The Game, Jeremih, Ty Dolla $ign, Eric Bellinger, Ne-Yo, MoneyBagg Yo, Halsey, Desiigner, DaniLeigh, Rihanna, and many others.

    Forward-Looking Statements:

    This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, which are intended to be covered by the safe harbors created thereby. Investors are cautioned that, all forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including without limitation, the ability of Music Licensing, Inc. & Pro Music Rights, Inc. to accomplish its stated plan of business. Music Licensing, Inc. & Pro Music Rights, Inc. believes that the assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements contained herein are reasonable, any of the assumptions could be inaccurate, and therefore, there can be no assurance that the forward-looking statements included in this press release will prove to be accurate. In light of the significant uncertainties inherent in the forward-looking statements included herein, the inclusion of such information should not be regarded as a representation by Pro Music Rights, Inc., Music Licensing, Inc., or any other person.

    Non-Legal Advice Disclosure:

    This press release does not constitute legal advice, and readers are advised to seek legal counsel for any legal matters or questions related to the content herein.

    Non-Investment Advice Disclosure:

    This communication is intended solely for informational purposes and does not in any way imply or constitute a recommendation or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any securities, commodities, bonds, options, derivatives, or any other investment products. Any decisions related to investments should be made after thorough research and consultation with a qualified financial advisor or professional. We assume no liability for any actions taken or not taken based on the information provided in this communication

    Contact: investors@ProMusicRights.com

    SOURCE: Music Licensing, Inc

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner, Kaine, & Colleagues Press FAA on Federal Workforce Cuts and Use of AI on Aviation Safety

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) joined Senator Edward J. Markey (D-MA) and nine of their Senate colleagues in sending a letter to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator Bryan Bedford requesting answers on the impact of FAA workforce reductions on aviation safety, including among analytical staff who proactively identify safety risks. The senators also inquired about comments by FAA officials suggesting the agency is using artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze safety data to identify risks.
    “The tragic crash of American Airlines flight 5342 highlighted serious gaps in our aviation safety system and demonstrated the need for a robust and experienced analytical workforce at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Unfortunately, over the past six months, your agency has significantly reduced its workforce. We are deeply concerned about these reductions’ impact on aviation safety,” the lawmakers wrote.
    “The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigation into the crash of American Airlines flight 5342 has demonstrated the need for a robust FAA workforce, beyond the air traffic controllers and other FAA personnel on the front lines of our aviation system. According to the NTSB investigation, more than 15,000 ‘close proximity events’ occurred at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport over the last five years—reflecting a shockingly high trend that the FAA should have identified…It’s critical that this Administration ensures the FAA has the workforce capacity to proactively and properly analyze aviation safety data to prevent another crash like the American Airlines flight 5342 tragedy,” the senators continued.
    “In the aftermath of the crash, the FAA should be analyzing the near miss data from events at Reagan National Airport and reviewing the sufficiency of FAA staffing. Instead, the agency has moved ahead with workforce reductions. In particular, FAA fired hundreds of probationary employees in critical support roles key to assisting air traffic controllers in doing their jobs,” the lawmakers wrote.
    The lawmakers requested the following information by August 11, 2025:
    For each FAA line of business and its relevant suboffices, please provide the (a) number of employees employed as of January 1, 2025, (b) number of employees employed as of July 1, 2025, and (c) the current number of job openings.
    For each FAA line of business and its relevant suboffices, please indicate whether any of its job positions are currently subject to a hiring freeze as of January 20, 2025.
    Please provide the analysis conducted by the Office of Airports related to the impact of workforce cuts on its safety mission.
    Besides the Office of Airports, please explain if any other FAA line of business has conducted an analysis of the impact of workforce cuts on its ability to deliver its mission. If so, please provide those analyses.
    Please explain all relevant FAA lines of business and relevant suboffices charged with identifying aviation safety trends and possible safety risks affecting airport operations in congested airspace.
    What specific AI tools is the FAA using to analyze aviation safety impacts and flight data and how is this improving FAA’s analysis? Does the FAA have adequate staff, familiar with these tools, to manage this analysis and ensure the security of the data used and generated by AI?
    In addition to Warner, Kaine, and Markey, the letter was cosigned by Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Peter Welch (D-VT).
    Warner and Kaine have long championed aviation safety and spoken out against federal workforce reductions at the FAA and other agencies. Following the January 29, 2025 collision between an Army Black Hawk helicopter and American Airlines flight 5342 near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), Warner and Kaine demanded answers from the FAA on additional safety measures to protect the public and expressed concerns about the impact of the “Department of Government Efficiency” in addressing issues that led to the mid-air collision. The senators also introduced legislation to strengthen aviation safety. Kaine, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, successfully got a provision included in the committee-passed Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act to require that all Department of Defense aircraft that operate near commercial airports be equipped with broadcast positioning technology. Earlier this year, Kaine invited Jason King, a veteran from Fairfax who was fired from his position in the FAA’s safety division, as his guest to the State of the Union address. King was rehired after the State of the Union.
    Full text of the letter is available here and below:
    Dear Administrator Bedford,
    The tragic crash of American Airlines flight 5342 highlighted serious gaps in our aviation safety system and demonstrated the need for a robust and experienced analytical workforce at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Unfortunately, over the past six months, your agency has significantly reduced its workforce. We are deeply concerned about these reductions’ impact on aviation safety. We therefore write to request information on changes in the FAA workforce and their impact on aviation safety, including any analyses that the FAA has conducted on the effects of workforce reductions on the agency’s safety mission.
    The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigation into the crash of American Airlines flight 5342 has demonstrated the need for a robust FAA workforce, beyond the air traffic controllers and other FAA personnel on the front lines of our aviation system. According to the NTSB investigation, more than 15,000 “close proximity events” occurred at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport over the last five years — reflecting a shockingly high trend that the FAA should have identified. At a Senate Commerce Committee hearing in March, the then-Acting FAA Administrator Chris Rocheleau acknowledged that the agency missed this warning sign, in part because of the sheer volume of data that FAA personnel must analyze. The Acting Administrator’s testimony illustrated the need for an FAA workforce robust and experienced enough to analyze all relevant data and identify safety risks. It’s critical that this Administration ensures the FAA has the workforce capacity to proactively and properly analyze aviation safety data to prevent another crash like the American Airlines flight 5342 tragedy.
    Despite this clear need for enhanced analytical capacity, the FAA has instead moved to reduce its workforce during this critical period. In the aftermath of the crash, the FAA should be analyzing the near miss data from events at Reagan National Airport and reviewing the sufficiency of FAA staffing. Instead, the agency has moved ahead with workforce reductions. In particular, FAA fired hundreds of probationary employees in critical support roles key to assisting air traffic controllers in doing their jobs. With the Department of Transportation (DOT) pushing personnel to leave via two rounds of the Deferred Resignation Program — under which employees could elect to resign and receive pay until September 2025 — coupled with the federal hiring freeze, federal officials are leaving their jobs and it may be difficult for the FAA to attract new, qualified employees. Although the DOT assured Senators that key FAA safety staff were exempt from firings and the Deferred Resignation Program, the FAA has still not clarified whether it has the staff it needs to ensure the safety of the American public. Estimates from the DOT suggest that between 1,000 and 3,000 employees may leave the agency once the Deferred Resignation Program offers are finalized. According to an internal presentation to FAA management: “Employees are departing the agency in mass quantities across all skill levels.” Most recently, the Department of Transportation may now be able to move ahead with a large Reduction in Force after the Supreme Court’s recent ruling allowing federal agencies to move forward with staffing cuts consistent with existing federal law. This moment — after a tragic crash highlighted critical gaps in aviation safety — seems like precisely the wrong time for the FAA to aggressively shrink its workforce.
    Moreover, the FAA’s recent announcement that it is using artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze its data — without explaining whether such AI tools are reliable or effective — provides little reassurance to the public. While we support the use of technology to improve how aviation safety data is used, the decision to rely on technological fixes while simultaneously moving ahead with staffing reductions is deeply worrisome. The FAA has not been transparent with Congress about the types of technology it is now using, whether those technologies are replacing, augmenting, or otherwise impacting the FAA workforce, or whether it requires human review of AI analyses before using any analysis in a safety-related decision. This reliance on technological fixes — without a transparent analysis of the FAA’s workforce levels and capacity— raises questions about the FAA’s commitment to prioritizing safety.
    If the FAA lacks the staff to identify safety risks before future incidents occur, Congress must be informed of this as soon as possible. At a recent Senate Commerce Committee hearing, Senators questioned FAA officials from the Office of Airports, the Office of Aviation Safety, and the Air Traffic Organization about the personnel reductions at their respective offices and whether their offices had conducted any analysis on the impact of these workforce cuts on aviation safety. Only the head of the FAA Office of Airports — which is charged with planning and developing a safe and efficient national airport system — responded that his Office had conducted such an analysis. Senators urged the FAA to turn over that analysis to the Committee, along with data on any workforce reductions, but to date it has not. It is essential that Congress have sufficient information to understand the impact of recent FAA personnel changes on aviation safety.
    To better understand the impact of FAA workforce reductions on aviation safety, please provide written responses to the following questions and requests for information by August 11, 2025:
    For each FAA line of business and its relevant suboffices, please provide the (a) number of employees employed as of January 1, 2025, (b) number of employees employed as of July 1, 2025, and (c) the current number of job openings.
    For each FAA line of business and its relevant suboffices, please indicate whether any of its job positions are currently subject to a hiring freeze as of January 20, 2025.
    Please provide the analysis conducted by the Office of Airports related to the impact of workforce cuts on its safety mission.
    Besides the Office of Airports, please explain if any other FAA line of business has conducted an analysis of the impact of workforce cuts on its ability to deliver its mission. If so, please provide those analyses.
    Please explain all relevant FAA lines of business and relevant suboffices charged with identifying aviation safety trends and possible safety risks affecting airport operations in congested airspace.
    What specific AI tools is the FAA using to analyze aviation safety impacts and flight data and how is this improving FAA’s analysis?
    Does the FAA have adequate staff, familiar with these tools, to manage this analysis and ensure the security of the data used and generated by AI?
    How were these AI tools selected? Please describe the specific testing or evaluation conducted in advance of the implementation of the tools and provide a copy of any reports or conclusions produced. If no testing or evaluation occurred, please explain why not.

    Thank you in advance for your attention to this matter.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Operation Grayskull Culminates in Lengthy Sentences for Managers of Dark Web Site Dedicated to Sexual Abuse of Children

    Source: US State of California

    Operation Grayskull Eradicated Four Dark Web Child Abuse Sites and Led to the Convictions of 18 Offenders to Date, Who Have Collectively Received More than 300 Years in Prison

    Today, the Justice Department announced the results of Operation Grayskull, a highly successful joint effort between the Department of Justice and the FBI that resulted in the dismantling of four dark web sites dedicated to images and videos containing child sexual abuse material (CSAM). To date, the operation has led to the convictions of 18 offenders, including a Minnesota man who was sentenced yesterday to 250 months in prison and lifetime supervised release for his involvement with one of these dark web sites. He was also ordered to pay $23,000 in restitution.

    “Today’s announcement sends a clear warning to those who exploit and abuse children: you will not find safe haven, even on the dark web,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “These offenders thought that they could act without consequences, but they were wrong.  Thanks to the relentless determination of our prosecutors and law enforcement partners we have exposed these perpetrators for who they are, eliminated their websites and brought justice to countless victims.”

    “This operation represents one of the most significant strikes ever made against online child exploitation networks,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “We’ve not only dismantled dangerous platforms on the dark web, but we’ve also brought key perpetrators to justice and delivered a powerful message: you cannot hide behind anonymity to harm children.”

    “Yesterday’s sentencing reaffirms our steadfast commitment to protecting our children, the most vulnerable among us, from those who exploit and harm them through the despicable trade in child sexual abuse material,” said U.S. Attorney Hayden P. O’Byrne for the Southern District of Florida. “Thomas Peter Katsampes and his co-conspirators ran some of the darkweb’s most heinous networks, enabling horrific crimes against innocent victims, but Operation Grayskull has shut these sites down and delivered justice. We applaud the FBI and our international partners for their tireless work, and let this be a clear warning: we will relentlessly pursue and prosecute anyone engaged in such atrocities, no matter how they attempt to cover their tracks.”

    Thomas Peter Katsampes, 52, of Eagan, Minnesota, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise and conspiracy to distribute child pornography on Feb. 27. According to court documents, Katsampes joined a dark web site dedicated to CSAM in 2022, advertised and distributed CSAM over the website, including CSAM depicting prepubescent children, and eventually worked his way up to a staff position on the web site, which, among other things, involved moderating the site, enforcing the site’s rules for posting CSAM, and advising the site’s users about how to post CSAM.

    In addition to Katsampes, eight individuals have been convicted and sentenced in the Southern District of Florida for their involvement in running the primary site targeted by Operation Grayskull.

    Defendant Residence Case Status
    Selwyn David Rosenstein Boynton Beach, Florida

    Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography, five counts of advertisement of child pornography, and possession of child pornography.

    Sentenced on Dec. 12, 2022, to 28 years in prison and ordered to pay $80,500 in restitution to victims of his offense.

    Matthew Branden Garrell Raleigh, North Carolina

    Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography and conspiracy to distribute child pornography.

    Sentenced on Aug. 1, 2023, to 20 years and 10 months in prison and ordered to pay $158,500 in restitution to victims of his offense.

    Robert Preston Boyles Clarksville, Tennessee

    Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography and conspiracy to distribute child pornography.

    Sentenced on Aug. 15, 2023, to 23 years and four months in prison and ordered to pay $7,500 in restitution to victims of his offense.

    Gregory Malcolm Good Silver Springs, Nevada

    Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography and conspiracy to distribute child pornography.

    Sentenced on Aug. 22, 2023, to 25 years and 10 months in prison and ordered to pay $93,500 in restitution to victims of his offense.

    William Michael Spearman Madison, Alabama

    Pleaded guilty to engaging in a child exploitation enterprise.

    Sentenced on Jan. 23, 2024, to life in prison and ordered to pay $123,400 in restitution to victims of his offense.

    Joseph Addison Martin Tahuya, Washington

    Pleaded guilty to engaging in a child exploitation enterprise.

    Sentenced on April 18, 2024, to 42 years in prison and ordered to pay $174,500 in restitution to victims of his offense.

    Joseph Robert Stewart Milton, Washington

    Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography and conspiracy to distribute child pornography.

    Sentenced on April 18, 2024, to 23 years and 9 months in prison and ordered to pay $19,500 in restitution to victims of his offense.

    Keith David McIntosh Grand Rapids, Michigan

    Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography and conspiracy to distribute child pornography, both as a person with a prior conviction for possession of child pornography.

    Sentenced on Dec. 19, 2024, to 55 years in prison.

    The website’s leaders advertised and distributed CSAM, promulgated rules for the website, enforced the rules by banning or scolding users who violated them, held staff meetings, recruited members to serve as staff members, recommended users for promotion, edited and deleted user posts, praised individuals for participating in and contributing to the website, kept records of CSAM posts made by individual members, and paid for and maintained the website servers, among other things.

    Operation Grayskull resulted in the dismantling of a total of four sites dedicated to images and videos depicting child sexual abuse. These websites were some of the most egregious on the dark web, and they included sections specifically dedicated to infants and toddlers, as well as depictions of violence, sadism, and torture. The websites also contained detailed advice on how to avoid detection by law enforcement – for example, by using sophisticated technologies.

    In other judicial districts around the country, nine additional individuals have been convicted for their involvement with these websites, including the following:

    • Charles Hand, of Aberdeen, Maryland, was prosecuted in the District of Maryland and was sentenced to 14 years in federal prison;
    • Michael Ibarra, of Wenatchee, Washington, was prosecuted in the Eastern District of Washington and was sentenced to 12 years in prison;
    • Clay Trimble, of Fordyce, Arkansas, was prosecuted in the Eastern District of Arkansas and was sentenced to 18 years in prison;
    • David Craig, of Houston, Texas, was prosecuted in the Southern District of Texas and was sentenced to nine years in prison;
    • Robert Rella of Chesapeake, Virginia, was prosecuted in the Eastern District of Virginia and was sentenced to five years and eight months in prison;
    • Samuel Hicks, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was prosecuted in the Northern District of Indiana and was sentenced to 16 years in prison;
    • Richard Smith of Dallas, Texas, was prosecuted in the Eastern District of Texas and was sentenced to 14 years in prison;
    • Patrick Harrison, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, was prosecuted in the Western District of Michigan and was sentenced to five years and ten months in prison.
    • Thomas Gailus, of Webbers Falls, Oklahoma, was prosecuted in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, and his sentencing is pending.

    Two other individuals in the United States died before being charged for their involvement with the websites. The operation also resulted in arrests in the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Italy, Germany, Estonia, Belgium, and South Africa.

    The FBI’s Child Exploitation Operational Unit and Miami Field Office, West Palm Beach Resident Agency investigated the cases.

    Acting Deputy Chief Kyle P. Reynolds and Trial Attorney William G. Clayman of the Justice Department’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory Schiller of the Southern District of Florida coordinated the operation and prosecuted the defendants in the Southern District of Florida.

    Substantial assistance for the cases prosected in the Southern District of Florida was provided by FBI Field Offices and Resident Agencies in Huntsville, Alabama; Reno, Nevada; Clarksville, Tennessee; Raleigh, North Carolina; Madison, Wisconsin; Tacoma, Washington; Grand Rapids, Michigan; and Minneapolis, Minnesota; CEOS’s High Technology Investigative Unit; and the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Northern District of Alabama, District of Nevada, Middle District of Tennessee, Eastern District of North Carolina, Western District of Wisconsin, Western District of Washington, Western District of Michigan, and District of Minnesota.

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

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Operation Grayskull Culminates in Lengthy Sentences for Managers of Dark Web Site Dedicated to Sexual Abuse of Children

    Source: United States Department of Justice

    Operation Grayskull Eradicated Four Dark Web Child Abuse Sites and Led to the Convictions of 18 Offenders to Date, Who Have Collectively Received More than 300 Years in Prison

    Today, the Justice Department announced the results of Operation Grayskull, a highly successful joint effort between the Department of Justice and the FBI that resulted in the dismantling of four dark web sites dedicated to images and videos containing child sexual abuse material (CSAM). To date, the operation has led to the convictions of 18 offenders, including a Minnesota man who was sentenced yesterday to 250 months in prison and lifetime supervised release for his involvement with one of these dark web sites. He was also ordered to pay $23,000 in restitution.

    “Today’s announcement sends a clear warning to those who exploit and abuse children: you will not find safe haven, even on the dark web,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “These offenders thought that they could act without consequences, but they were wrong.  Thanks to the relentless determination of our prosecutors and law enforcement partners we have exposed these perpetrators for who they are, eliminated their websites and brought justice to countless victims.”

    “This operation represents one of the most significant strikes ever made against online child exploitation networks,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “We’ve not only dismantled dangerous platforms on the dark web, but we’ve also brought key perpetrators to justice and delivered a powerful message: you cannot hide behind anonymity to harm children.”

    “Yesterday’s sentencing reaffirms our steadfast commitment to protecting our children, the most vulnerable among us, from those who exploit and harm them through the despicable trade in child sexual abuse material,” said U.S. Attorney Hayden P. O’Byrne for the Southern District of Florida. “Thomas Peter Katsampes and his co-conspirators ran some of the darkweb’s most heinous networks, enabling horrific crimes against innocent victims, but Operation Grayskull has shut these sites down and delivered justice. We applaud the FBI and our international partners for their tireless work, and let this be a clear warning: we will relentlessly pursue and prosecute anyone engaged in such atrocities, no matter how they attempt to cover their tracks.”

    Thomas Peter Katsampes, 52, of Eagan, Minnesota, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise and conspiracy to distribute child pornography on Feb. 27. According to court documents, Katsampes joined a dark web site dedicated to CSAM in 2022, advertised and distributed CSAM over the website, including CSAM depicting prepubescent children, and eventually worked his way up to a staff position on the web site, which, among other things, involved moderating the site, enforcing the site’s rules for posting CSAM, and advising the site’s users about how to post CSAM.

    In addition to Katsampes, eight individuals have been convicted and sentenced in the Southern District of Florida for their involvement in running the primary site targeted by Operation Grayskull.

    Defendant Residence Case Status
    Selwyn David Rosenstein Boynton Beach, Florida

    Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography, five counts of advertisement of child pornography, and possession of child pornography.

    Sentenced on Dec. 12, 2022, to 28 years in prison and ordered to pay $80,500 in restitution to victims of his offense.

    Matthew Branden Garrell Raleigh, North Carolina

    Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography and conspiracy to distribute child pornography.

    Sentenced on Aug. 1, 2023, to 20 years and 10 months in prison and ordered to pay $158,500 in restitution to victims of his offense.

    Robert Preston Boyles Clarksville, Tennessee

    Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography and conspiracy to distribute child pornography.

    Sentenced on Aug. 15, 2023, to 23 years and four months in prison and ordered to pay $7,500 in restitution to victims of his offense.

    Gregory Malcolm Good Silver Springs, Nevada

    Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography and conspiracy to distribute child pornography.

    Sentenced on Aug. 22, 2023, to 25 years and 10 months in prison and ordered to pay $93,500 in restitution to victims of his offense.

    William Michael Spearman Madison, Alabama

    Pleaded guilty to engaging in a child exploitation enterprise.

    Sentenced on Jan. 23, 2024, to life in prison and ordered to pay $123,400 in restitution to victims of his offense.

    Joseph Addison Martin Tahuya, Washington

    Pleaded guilty to engaging in a child exploitation enterprise.

    Sentenced on April 18, 2024, to 42 years in prison and ordered to pay $174,500 in restitution to victims of his offense.

    Joseph Robert Stewart Milton, Washington

    Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography and conspiracy to distribute child pornography.

    Sentenced on April 18, 2024, to 23 years and 9 months in prison and ordered to pay $19,500 in restitution to victims of his offense.

    Keith David McIntosh Grand Rapids, Michigan

    Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography and conspiracy to distribute child pornography, both as a person with a prior conviction for possession of child pornography.

    Sentenced on Dec. 19, 2024, to 55 years in prison.

    The website’s leaders advertised and distributed CSAM, promulgated rules for the website, enforced the rules by banning or scolding users who violated them, held staff meetings, recruited members to serve as staff members, recommended users for promotion, edited and deleted user posts, praised individuals for participating in and contributing to the website, kept records of CSAM posts made by individual members, and paid for and maintained the website servers, among other things.

    Operation Grayskull resulted in the dismantling of a total of four sites dedicated to images and videos depicting child sexual abuse. These websites were some of the most egregious on the dark web, and they included sections specifically dedicated to infants and toddlers, as well as depictions of violence, sadism, and torture. The websites also contained detailed advice on how to avoid detection by law enforcement – for example, by using sophisticated technologies.

    In other judicial districts around the country, nine additional individuals have been convicted for their involvement with these websites, including the following:

    • Charles Hand, of Aberdeen, Maryland, was prosecuted in the District of Maryland and was sentenced to 14 years in federal prison;
    • Michael Ibarra, of Wenatchee, Washington, was prosecuted in the Eastern District of Washington and was sentenced to 12 years in prison;
    • Clay Trimble, of Fordyce, Arkansas, was prosecuted in the Eastern District of Arkansas and was sentenced to 18 years in prison;
    • David Craig, of Houston, Texas, was prosecuted in the Southern District of Texas and was sentenced to nine years in prison;
    • Robert Rella of Chesapeake, Virginia, was prosecuted in the Eastern District of Virginia and was sentenced to five years and eight months in prison;
    • Samuel Hicks, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was prosecuted in the Northern District of Indiana and was sentenced to 16 years in prison;
    • Richard Smith of Dallas, Texas, was prosecuted in the Eastern District of Texas and was sentenced to 14 years in prison;
    • Patrick Harrison, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, was prosecuted in the Western District of Michigan and was sentenced to five years and ten months in prison.
    • Thomas Gailus, of Webbers Falls, Oklahoma, was prosecuted in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, and his sentencing is pending.

    Two other individuals in the United States died before being charged for their involvement with the websites. The operation also resulted in arrests in the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Italy, Germany, Estonia, Belgium, and South Africa.

    The FBI’s Child Exploitation Operational Unit and Miami Field Office, West Palm Beach Resident Agency investigated the cases.

    Acting Deputy Chief Kyle P. Reynolds and Trial Attorney William G. Clayman of the Justice Department’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory Schiller of the Southern District of Florida coordinated the operation and prosecuted the defendants in the Southern District of Florida.

    Substantial assistance for the cases prosected in the Southern District of Florida was provided by FBI Field Offices and Resident Agencies in Huntsville, Alabama; Reno, Nevada; Clarksville, Tennessee; Raleigh, North Carolina; Madison, Wisconsin; Tacoma, Washington; Grand Rapids, Michigan; and Minneapolis, Minnesota; CEOS’s High Technology Investigative Unit; and the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Northern District of Alabama, District of Nevada, Middle District of Tennessee, Eastern District of North Carolina, Western District of Wisconsin, Western District of Washington, Western District of Michigan, and District of Minnesota.

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

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI: Subsea7 awarded substantial contract

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Luxembourg – 23 July 2025 – Subsea7 S.A. (Oslo Børs: SUBC, ADR: SUBCY) today announced the award of a substantial(1) contract.

    The project involves the engineering and offshore installation of flexible pipe, umbilicals, subsea equipment and a mooring system.

    Project management and engineering activities will begin immediately at Subsea7’s office in Houston, Texas, with offshore operations expected to start in 2027.

    No additional details will be provided at this time.

    (1)   Subsea7 defines a substantial contract as being between $150 million and $300 million.

    *******************************************************************************
    Subsea7 is a global leader in the delivery of offshore projects and services for the evolving energy industry, creating sustainable value by being the industry’s partner and employer of choice in delivering the efficient offshore solutions the world needs.

    Subsea7 is listed on the Oslo Børs (SUBC), ISIN LU0075646355, LEI 222100AIF0CBCY80AH62.

    *******************************************************************************

    Contact for investment community enquiries:
    Katherine Tonks
    Investor Relations Director
    Tel +44 20 8210 5568
    ir@subsea7.com

    Contact for media enquiries:
    Ashley Shearer
    Communications Manager
    Tel +1-713-300-6792
    ashley.shearer@subsea7.com

    Forward-Looking Statements: This document may contain ‘forward-looking statements’ (within the meaning of the safe harbour provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995). These statements relate to our current expectations, beliefs, intentions, assumptions or strategies regarding the future and are subject to known and unknown risks that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in these statements. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of words such as ‘anticipate’, ‘believe’, ‘estimate’, ‘expect’, ‘future’, ‘goal’, ‘intend’, ‘likely’ ‘may’, ‘plan’, ‘project’, ‘seek’, ‘should’, ‘strategy’ ‘will’, and similar expressions. The principal risks which could affect future operations of the Group are described in the ‘Risk Management’ section of the Group’s Annual Report and Consolidated Financial Statements. Factors that may cause actual and future results and trends to differ materially from our forward-looking statements include (but are not limited to): (i) our ability to deliver fixed price projects in accordance with client expectations and within the parameters of our bids, and to avoid cost overruns; (ii) our ability to collect receivables, negotiate variation orders and collect the related revenue; (iii) our ability to recover costs on significant projects; (iv) capital expenditure by oil and gas companies, which is affected by fluctuations in the price of, and demand for, crude oil and natural gas; (v) unanticipated delays or cancellation of projects included in our backlog; (vi) competition and price fluctuations in the markets and businesses in which we operate; (vii) the loss of, or deterioration in our relationship with, any significant clients; (viii) the outcome of legal proceedings or governmental inquiries; (ix) uncertainties inherent in operating internationally, including economic, political and social instability, boycotts or embargoes, labour unrest, changes in foreign governmental regulations, corruption and currency fluctuations; (x) the effects of a pandemic or epidemic or a natural disaster; (xi) liability to third parties for the failure of our joint venture partners to fulfil their obligations; (xii) changes in, or our failure to comply with, applicable laws and regulations (including regulatory measures addressing climate change); (xiii) operating hazards, including spills, environmental damage, personal or property damage and business interruptions caused by adverse weather; (xiv) equipment or mechanical failures, which could increase costs, impair revenue and result in penalties for failure to meet project completion requirements; (xv) the timely delivery of vessels on order and the timely completion of ship conversion programmes; (xvi) our ability to keep pace with technological changes and the impact of potential information technology, cyber security or data security breaches; (xvii) global availability at scale and commercially viability of suitable alternative vessel fuels; and (xviii) the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting. Many of these factors are beyond our ability to control or predict. Given these uncertainties, you should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements. Each forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of this document. We undertake no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    This information is considered to be inside information pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation and is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act. 
    This stock exchange release was published by Katherine Tonks, Investor Relations, Subsea7, on 23 July 2025 at 18:20 CET.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Merck Foundation Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Meets Mauritius Minister of Gender Equality & Family Welfare to Launch “Educating Linda” Program, Supporting Education of 20 Deserving yet Underprivileged Mauritian Schoolgirls Girls Until Graduation

    Source: APO

    • During the visit to the country, Merck Foundation CEO also met the Mauritius President to share the impact of their 100 Scholarships for Mauritian Doctors in partnership with Ministry of Health.
    • Dr. Rasha Kelej during her meeting with the Mauritius President, strengthened partnership to improve access to innovative and equitable healthcare and Empower Women in STEM.
    • Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej also met the Mauritius Minister of Gender Equality & Family Welfare to share the impact of their programs to address critical social issues like supporting girl education and Ending Gender Based Violence in the country.

    Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany met Hon’ble Ms. Marie Arianne Navarre-Marie, Minister of Gender Equality and Family Welfare during a high-level meeting, to share the impact of their programs and underscore their long-term commitment to address critical social issues in Mauritius.

    During her visit, she also met H.E. MR. DHARAMBEER GOKHOOL, The President of Republic of Mauritius, to share the impact of their 100 Scholarships for Mauritian Doctors in partnership with Ministry of Health and underscore their long-term commitment to transform public healthcare in Mauritius.

    Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of “More Than a Mother” Campaign emphasized, “It was a great honor to meet Hon’ble Ms. Marie Arianne Navarre-Marie, Minister of Gender Equality and Family Welfare and share with her the impact of our partnership and programs since 2017 that aim to transform patient care, build healthcare and media capacity, to empower women in STEM, support girl education and raise awareness about social and health issues in Mauritius and the rest of Africa.

    I am very happy to share that together with the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family Welfare, we are launching our Educating Linda Program in the country, as a part of which we will be supporting the education of 20 high performing yet underprivileged Mauritian schoolgirls, till they graduate. Through this, we will be empowering them to complete their studies and reach their full potential.”

    Merck Foundation has provided 100 scholarships for Mauritian doctors in 44 critical and under-served specialties.

    “During my meeting with H.E. MR. DHARAMBEER GOKHOOL, The President of Republic of Mauritius, we also discussed the possibility of providing specialized training for Mauritian doctors in innovative and emerging fields such as Stem Cell Therapy in pathology, CAR T-cell treatment, AI in Radiology, Radiotherapy and Medical Oncology, Robotic Surgical Oncology, Neurology, Nephrology, Urology, and Neurosurgery. We are strongly committed to work closely with Ministry of Health to improve access to innovative and equitable healthcare solutions”, added Dr. Kelej. 

    The 100 scholarships for local Mauritian Doctors have been provided for One-Year PG Diploma and Two-year Master Degrees in many critical specialties including Fertility, Embryology, Sexual & Reproductive Care, Oncology, Preventative Cardiovascular, Diabetes, Endocrinology, Acute Medicine, Respiratory, Gastroenterology, Dermatology, Neuroimaging for Research, Sexual & Reproductive Care, Clinical Microbiology and infectious diseases, Internal Medicine, Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Ophthalmology, Laparoscopic Surgical Skills, Critical Care, Neonatal Medicine, Psychiatry, Family Medicine, Advanced Cytopathology and many more.

    Merck Foundation has so far provided more than 2280 scholarships for young doctors from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved specialties, with many of them becoming the first specialists in their countries.

    During her visit, Merck Foundation CEO also met the Senior Officials from the Office of Hon’ble Minister of Health, Mauritius.

    Merck Foundation also conducted the 4th Edition of their Health Media Training for the Mauritian Media Representatives in partnership with Ministry of Gender Equality and Family Welfare, Mauritius. The training session was conducted to emphasize on the important role that media plays to influence society to create a cultural shift with the aim to address wide range of social and health issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, Stopping GBV, Diabetes and Hypertension awareness. It was co-chaired by Merck Foundation CEO and Minister of Gender Equality and Family Welfare, Mauritius.

    During the training session, the Call for Application for 8 important Merck Foundation Awards were announced for Media, Musicians, Fashion Designers, Filmmakers, students, and new potential talents in these fields.

    The award announced are:

    1. Merck Foundation Africa Media Recognition Awards “More Than a Mother” 2025, in partnership with Media Trust Board, Mauritius: Media representatives and media students are invited to showcase their work to raise awareness about one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

    Submission deadline: 30th September 2025.

    1.  Merck Foundation Fashion Awards “More Than a Mother” 2025, in partnership with Academy of Design and Innovation, Mauritius: All African Fashion Students and Designers are invited to create and share designs to deliver strong and influential messages to raise awareness about one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

    Submission deadline: 30th September 2025.

    1. Merck Foundation Film Awards “More Than a Mother” 2025: All African Filmmakers, Students of Film Making Training Institutions, or Young Talents of Africa are invited to create and share a long or short FILMS, either drama, documentary, or docudrama to deliver strong and influential messages to address one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

    Submission deadline: 30th September 2025.

    1. Merck Foundation Song Awards “More Than a Mother” 2025: All African Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a SONG with the aim to address one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

    Submission deadline: 30th September 2025.

    1. Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards 2025 “Diabetes & Hypertension”, in partnership with Media Trust Board, Mauritius: Media representatives are invited to showcase their work through strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

    Submission deadline: 30th October 2025.

    1. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards 2025 “Diabetes & Hypertension”, in partnership with Academy of Design and Innovation, Mauritius: All African Fashion Students and Designers are invited to create and share designs to deliver strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

    Submission deadline: 30th October 2025.

    1. Merck Foundation Film Awards 2025 “Diabetes & Hypertension: All African Filmmakers, Students of Film Making Training Institutions, or Young Talents of Africa are invited to create and share a long or short FILMS, either drama, documentary, or docudrama to deliver strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

    Submission deadline: 30th October 2025.

    1. Merck Foundation Song Awards 2025 “Diabetes & Hypertension”: All African Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a SONG with the aim to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

    Submission deadline: 30th October 2025.

    Entries for the above awards can be submitted to us at:

    submit@merck-foundation.com

    For information on the above awards, please visit our website:

    www.Merck-Foundation.com

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

    Contact:
    Mehak Handa
    Community Awareness Program Manager 
    Phone: +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669
    Email: mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

    Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard!
    Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/3GZAB8c
    X: https://apo-opa.co/46Yc51M
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    Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/41aw4Xg
    Threads: https://apo-opa.co/4m1Sj9O
    Flickr: https://apo-opa.co/4o4qNdO
    Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
    Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/4nYOCDX

    About Merck Foundation:
    The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare & scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website.  Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/3GZAB8c), X (https://apo-opa.co/46Yc51M), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/41aw4Xg), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/450kdfL), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4m1Sj9O) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4o4qNdO).

    The Merck Foundation is dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for communities in need. While it collaborates with various partners, including governments to achieve its humanitarian goals, the foundation remains strictly neutral in political matters. It does not engage in or support any political activities, elections, or regimes, focusing solely on its mission to elevate humanity and enhance well-being while maintaining a strict non-political stance in all of its endeavors.

    Media files

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    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI: Hybrid Software Group: 2025 Interim Report

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PRESS RELEASE – REGULATED INFORMATION

    HYBRID SOFTWARE GROUP: 2025 INTERIM REPORT

    Cambridge (UK), 23 July 2025 (18.00 CEST): Hybrid Software Group PLC (Euronext: HYSG) announces it has published its half year report and unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements for the six months ended 30 June 2025.

    The full document is available to download from the financial reports section of the Company’s web site at  https://hybridsoftware.com/investors/financial-reports.

    Mike Rottenborn, Hybrid Software Group CEO comments, “Hybrid Software Group delivered a solid performance in the first half of 2025, with all three reporting segments in line with our budget for revenue and operating profit at mid-year.

    Beginning with the Printing Software segment, we have repeatedly mentioned that 2024 opened with €3.3 million in revenue from the renewal of a large OEM contract in Japan.  With no similar renewal in Q1 of 2025, our figures looked weak compared to 2024.  This has normalised in Q2 with the launch of Mako Apex, a new variant of our Mako software that supports Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) to render complex graphics much faster than Central Processing Units (CPUs).  This allows our OEM customers to increase the performance of their software while reducing the total computing cost, and sales of Mako Apex are driving new contracts in Q2 and beyond.  In addition, OEM royalties from the sale of digital presses which incorporate the Harlequin RIP and/or SmartDFE, our patented AI-optimised Digital Front End software, continue to build.

    Moving to the Printhead Solutions segment, the good results from Q1 continued in the second quarter.  Business in China remains strong, but we also see significant growth in Europe and North America and a reduced dependence on sales to our largest customer in China.  Sales continue to grow in the additive manufacturing (3D printing) space, where inkjet plays a significant role.  The chip shortage is over: manufacturing costs are under control and margins have improved significantly.  We continue to introduce new printhead drivers for our customers and have an exciting development pipeline which bodes well for the future prospects in this segment.

    The Enterprise Software segment continues to perform well.  In comparing our first half figures to last year, it is important to remember that the largest trade fair for the printing industry, Drupa, took place in May and June of 2024.  Hybrid Software closed a lot of business during Drupa but that left the sales pipeline relatively weak in the third quarter, and we did not see a recovery until October of last year.  The current situation is much better.  Enterprise Software sales increased more than 7% in the first half of 2025 and the pipeline looks promising as we enter Q3. Our BrandZ business continues to grow as a supplier of software solutions to brands and CPGs while supplying complementary software to the printers and trade shops which also service these brands.”

    Financial highlights (unaudited)

    For the six months ended 30 June
    In thousands of euros 2025 (unaudited) 2024 (unaudited)
    Revenue 26,592 26,922
    Operating profit 2,210 2,344
    Profit before tax 1,415 1,870
    Tax credit 223 281
    Profit for the period 1,638 2,151
         
    EBITDA from continuing operations 5,431 6,483
         
    Adjusted operating profit 3,953 4,383
    Adjusted net profit 3,189 3,998
         
    Cash and cash equivalents 11,159 8,041
    Loans & borrowings (4,400) (6,900)
    Net cash 6,759 1,141

    About Hybrid Software Group
    Through its operating subsidiaries, Hybrid Software Group PLC (Euronext: HYSG) is a leading developer of software and electronics for labels & packaging and industrial print manufacturing. Customers include press manufacturers such as HP, Canon, Durst, Roland, and hundreds of packaging printers, trade shops, and converters worldwide.

    Hybrid Software Group PLC is headquartered in Cambridge UK. Its subsidiary companies are colour technology experts ColorLogic, printing software developers Global Graphics Software, enterprise software developer HYBRID Software, 3D design and modelling software developers iC3D, the industrial printhead driver solutions specialists Meteor Inkjet, and pre-press workflow developer Xitron.

    Contacts

     

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hearing Wrap Up: Congress Must Act to Advance Nuclear Energy

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Eric Burlison (R-Missouri 7th District)

    WASHINGTON—The Subcommittee on Economic Growth, Energy Policy, and Regulatory Affairs today held a hearing titled “The New Atomic Age: Advancing America’s Energy Future.” During the hearing, members heard from witnesses about the advent of small and micro modular nuclear reactors and how their development and deployment will advance the use of safe, clean and reliable nuclear energy in the United States. Members emphasized the importance of expanding nuclear energy because of its efficiency and low cost compared to other energy sources.  

    Click here to watch the hearing. 

    Key Takeaways:

    Small and micro modular reactors (SMRs and MMRs) promise to redefine the future of U.S. electricity generation through increases in safe, affordable and accessible nuclear energy. Government overregulation, however, has been holding back the development and deployment of these reactors.  

    • Alex Epstein, President and Founder of the Center for Industrial Progress, stated in his opening testimony that “Whenever we talk about abundant nuclear energy, including SMRs, we need to recognize that the first step is for government to stop doing the immense harm it’s actively doing. And this harm is harm that probably gutted nuclear’s potential for decades. It’s important to recognize that in the 70s, clean, safe nuclear power – and it was very safe, it was the safest form of energy in history, even back then, -became affordable and it quickly grew to 20 percent of American electrical power with the potential to get far more affordable and plentiful. But crushing irrational regulation, including the way the N[uclear] R[egulatory] C[omission] was set up, made nuclear expensive or impossible to build.”

    Supply-chain issues and cultural misconceptions of nuclear energy adversely affect its propagation in the U.S.

    • Joshua Smith, Energy Policy Lead at the Abundance Institute, stated in his opening testimony that “For decades, American engineers built nuclear swiftly, cheaply, and safely…Nuclear’s struggles today aren’t inherent to the technology. They’re the product of outdated, unfit, and counterproductive regulations. Major barriers include [As Low and Reasonably Achievable] and [Linear No-Threshold] standards which impose costs above any kind of offsetting safety benefits, inflexible [Nuclear Regulatory Commission] frameworks that prevent innovation and nuclear’s risk being widely understood. For example, there is no radiation caused deaths associated with Three Mile Island’s release. The Chernobyl disaster is impossible with modern reactor designs and measured in deaths per terawatt hours of electricity production, nuclear is about 800 times safer than coal and 100 times safer than gas generation.” 

    The United States must modernize its approach to electrical grid licensing, permitting and the nuclear industry generally if we want to maintain leadership in the global race for energy efficiency.

    • Joshua Smith said in his opening testimony that “Nuclear entrepreneurs can’t succeed in a system that blocks entry before shovels hit the dirt. Licensing, permitting, and interconnection are all clogged arteries in need of reform alongside nuclear regulations. The core lesson is that we need to not just improve nuclear regulations, but streamline permitting and grid interconnection to enable nuclear power and ensure an affordable and reliable energy supply.”
    • Alex Epstein testified that “[The] NRC should open nuclear innovation zones on federal land. So, the recent [executive orders] rightly encouraged the testing of nuclear reactors on federal lands, which would allow private developers to quickly iterate designs and run safety tests without waiting years. What [the Department of Energy] and [the Department of Defense] can do is formally designate nuclear innovation zones on federal land, and specifically the NRC can issue guidance confirming the data collected on these sites will satisfy what’s called performance-based safety testing requirements of the regulatory code Part 53, and this can dramatically expedite things.”

    Member Highlights:

    Subcommittee Chairman Burlison (R-Mo.) inquired about companies being held back from developing nuclear energy in the United States, and how states are better suited for regulating nuclear energy than the federal government.

    Subcommittee Chairman Burlison: “I was recently told by one company based here in the United States that they will have a fully functioning MMR abroad in the next year. They specifically stated that they couldn’t accomplish that in the United States, that they’d have to go on foreign soil to demonstrate to the American public and the government that their technology is ready. What’s holding back companies like that from doing this in the United States?” 

    Mr. Smith: “Thank you. Fundamentally, the problem is we have too many barriers between people who want to build and their ability to put shovels on the ground and put up structures. So, take one example, it’s important that we do continued modeling. It’s important that we continue doing extensive testing, but we also need to do real life testing rather than just rely on the data that we currently use.”

    Subcommittee Chairman Burlison: “I’m [going to] jump to one of my questions then, regarding the states. How would they be better suited than the federal government for regulating this?” 

    Mr. Smith: “One of the key differences between the designs of the 60s and 70s is today, they’re very, very different, so there’s little need for containment structures in some of these new designs. And part of the problem with having a lot of expertise at the NRC is simply that they have a hammer, they see everything as a nail, and so we have a problem where new companies come in, they don’t need a containment chamber or containment facility for their design, and yet the NRC prescriptive regulations say ‘thou shalt have one.’ And so state level interest can develop new rules that avoid this kind of old problem, and we could do some of this at the federal level of course. There’s room for Congress to get involved and spin off new agencies within the NRC or separately entirely to pursue these new designs. States have already taken the right kinds of steps. Texas has been developing an advanced nuclear working group. Utah similarly has an office of an energy development official who’s purely devoted to nuclear now, in addition to extensive legislative efforts within the state congress.”

    Subcommittee Chairman Burlison also inquired about overbearing regulations and the cultural discussion of nuclear stifling U.S. energy innovation.
     

    Subcommittee Chairman Burlison: “[Can you] speak to how the regulatory process for [technological innovators] who are doing very creative, very innovative stuff might be stifling to that mindset?”

    Mr. Epstein: “I admire these guys for trying because it’s just, so difficult to do things. I mean, for all the reasons I mentioned, the licensing process, it could be difficult to test things, the whole Linear No-Threshold and As Low As Reasonably Achievable. So this, all these dogmas, as I said, can be changed and it’ll just radically open the frontier for innovation where companies like these can go very quickly from idea to action. Right now, there’s just an enormous gap between idea and action. One other thing that needs to change, I think, is the cultural discussion of nuclear we heard from Ranking Member Frost, and I think some others, that Three Mile Island was the problem. But as Scott Perry pointed out, like Three Mile Island, is not fundamentally a problem. [The] fact that the worst nuclear accident we’ve had is something that killed nobody, that should be celebrating nuclear. So we need to stop demonizing nuclear like the Simpsons did. We need to recognize it’s fundamentally safe. It’s not safe primarily because of regulation, it’s safe because the material cannot explode like combustion can.”

    Rep. Scott Perry (R-Pa.) inquired about how the nuclear energy industry is more profitable and cost-efficient for taxpayers than other non-traditional energy industries.

    Rep. Perry: “[Mr. Epstein], if you could just briefly explain how not doing the same thing over and over again for the same kind of design is going to be helpful to the industry, save the industry money, and, in turn, save my bosses, citizens of America—my constituents—money?” 

    Mr. Epstein: “For sure. So, I think it’s really important that you raise the issue of profit, because we absolutely want nuclear energy companies to be able to make a profit by competing to provide the lowest cost, most reliable energy, just like we want phone manufacturers to be able to make a profit providing the most effective phones. AI providing people the most cost-effective AI. There are two kinds of problems that arise. One is when you restrict the ability of profit-making entities to compete by not allowing them to do their jobs, which things like having a new environmental impact statement for every nuclear power plant, even if it’s the exact same thing, that just dramatically increases costs. The other thing that you raised is that when you subsidize inferior forms of energy, that also raises costs…So they take money away from the reliable power plants, reliable power plants get defunded, can’t make a profit. This is why we have a shortage of gas turbines. One of the reasons why nuclear is in bad shape, but we cannot build dispatchable capacity profitably, because we’ve screwed up the markets with subsidies. So, the Big Beautiful Bill, by far the best thing about it, in my opinion, was dramatic cuts to these grid destroying, price increasing solar and wind subsidies.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Allies enhance NATO’s digital posture

    Source: NATO

    Brussels, 23 July 2025 – Twelve NATO Allies¹ have committed to develop and roll out a new digital network by 2030 through NATO’s Allied Software for Cloud and Edge Services (ACE) High Visibility Project (HVP). ACE will enable personnel in the field to create, distribute and store classified information securely.

    The initiative will provide participating Allies with a common digital service and improve interoperability in operations through more efficient data sharing. It will also support data-driven decision-making by leveraging advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning.

    Initial funding for ACE will be up to 45 million euros with participating Allies expected to allocate additional resources for specific tasks. The NATO Communications and Information Agency (NCIA) will lead the execution of the project on behalf of the participating Allies. 
     
    ACE will serve as the foundation for a scalable, software-driven approach to defence capabilities making the development and delivery of mission-critical applications and services faster and more secure. This in turn will enhance NATO’s ability to respond swiftly to evolving operational demands, ensuring digital systems remain responsive, updated and ready for use.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI: Sift Accelerates Industry Leadership with Product Innovations and Market Recognition in First Half of 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN FRANCISCO, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sift, the AI-powered fraud platform delivering identity trust for leading global businesses, today announced a series of significant milestones achieved in the first half of 2025, demonstrating the company’s continued market leadership and its focus on customer-centric innovation. The period marked new growth in product capabilities, industry recognition, and global expansion initiatives.

    Customer Recognition

    Sift once again secured the #1 ranking across all fraud-related categories in G2’s 2025 Summer Reports, marking the second consecutive year the company has achieved the top position in Fraud Detection, E-Commerce Fraud Protection, and Risk-Based Authentication (RBA). G2 is the world’s largest and most trusted software marketplace and Sift’s recognition is based on the reviews of 500 real Sift users, a 42% increase since the 2024 Summer Reports and 52% more reviews than the closest category competitor.

    Product Innovations: Identity Trust XD Framework

    In March 2025, Sift introduced Identity Trust XD, a groundbreaking innovation that delivers unprecedented visibility into digital identity behavior across multiple dimensions. The new offering accelerates more confident and accurate decisions powered by Sift’s Global Data Network, which processes more than 1 trillion events annually.

    Identity Trust XD transforms fragmented digital identity data into contextual insights, providing crucial, embedded context so that risk teams can make more informed decisions. The solution optimizes resources by minimizing analyst workload, increases revenue by accelerating consumer onboarding, reduces fraud loss through improved decision accuracy, and enhances decision confidence with deeper insights.

    “The first half of 2025 has been transformative for Sift and our customers,” said Kris Nagel, CEO of Sift. “We’re not just evolving our technology—we’re ushering in the era of identity trust to transform fraud decisioning for the market. With Identity Trust XD, businesses can move beyond traditional fraud trade-offs and instead use identity intelligence as a competitive advantage.”

    AI-Powered Capabilities Drive Operational Efficiency

    In May 2025, Sift announced ActivityIQ, a generative AI-powered innovation that identifies and communicates account takeover (ATO) fraud patterns directly in the Sift Console experience that might otherwise go undetected. Built upon Activity Analyzer, ActivityIQ saves analysts significant time by summarizing risk patterns across multiple accounts simultaneously, potentially saving hundreds of hours in aggregate for customers using ATO Defense.

    Additional innovations unveiled in the first half of 2025 include:

    • FIBR In-Console Integration: Brings Sift’s industry-first Fraud Industry Benchmarking Resource directly into the Sift Console, allowing customers to compare their fraud metrics against industry peers without leaving their operational hub.
    • Automatic Chargeback Labeling: Creates a feedback loop for payment fraud prevention by automatically updating machine learning models with chargeback outcomes.
    • Global Identity Insights: Provides comprehensive profile views of user behavior and risk outcomes with other Sift customers, reducing research time and minimizing human error during reviews.

    Partner Program Expansion

    In April 2025, Sift announced a significant expansion of its Partner Program, designed to support partners in transforming digital risk into revenue opportunities. The enhanced program includes multiple partnership categories: Referral Partners, Authorized Resellers, and Service Providers, each aligned with prescribed annual sales revenue goals, technical capabilities, and product certifications.

    The enhanced program reflects Sift’s commitment to enabling partners across multiple engagement models, from referral opportunities to full implementation services, as they serve the rapidly expanding fraud prevention market.

    About Sift

    Sift is the AI-powered fraud platform delivering identity trust for leading global businesses. Our deep investments in machine learning and user identity, a data network scoring 1 trillion events per year, and a commitment to long-term customer success empower more than 700 customers to grow fearlessly. Brands including DoorDash, Yelp, and Poshmark rely on Sift to unlock growth and deliver seamless consumer experiences. Visit us at sift.com and follow us on LinkedIn.

    Media Contact:

    Victor White
    VP, Corporate Marketing
    press@sift.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Scholten Blocks Trump Cuts, Delivers Millions for Michigan Manufacturers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Hillary Scholten – Michigan

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (MI03) announced a major win for West Michigan, successfully securing more than $4.9 million in federal funding for the Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program (MEP) and The Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center (MMTC) after it was announced the Department of Commerce would not be renewing their cooperative agreement that provided these funds. This victory will allow manufacturers and working-class families in West Michigan and beyond to thrive. 

    “I fought back against an attack on Michigan manufacturing and won. Michigan’s manufacturers are the backbone of our economy, and I refuse to sit back while political games threaten their future,” said Rep. Scholten. “West Michigan’s manufacturers deserve a partner in Washington who shows up and delivers–and that’s exactly what I did. I’ll always fight to protect the working families and businesses that keep West Michigan running.”

    At the beginning of the year, the Trump Administration notified several MEP Centers that they would not be renewing their cooperative agreements, risking MMTC’s funding. In April, the MMTC discussed how defunding this program would harm the 157 American manufacturers and 16,513 employees in Michigan’s Third District that have worked with them. Across the state, the MMTC created 4,949 manufacturing jobs. On June 9th, Rep. Scholten called on Secretary Lutnick and Acting Director Burkhart to support MMTC’s cooperative agreement. 

    After pushing Rep. Scholten’s calls, the National Institute of Standards and Technology announced that MMTC would receive a year of federal funding. They emphasized the aim of the funding is to empower Michigan’s small and medium-sized manufacturers (SSMs) by providing essential resources, expert knowledge and collaborative support. Additionally, employees within these manufacturing companies will benefit from workforce development programs, equipping them with essential skills for career advancement. 

    The broader Michigan economy will also see positive impacts through increased manufacturing output, investment, and job creation. Scholten’s advocacy ensured that the Trump Administration could not get in the way of Michigan’s manufacturing.

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    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The Active Citizen project has updated the “Pulse of the Capital” section

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The Active Citizen project has introduced an updated section “Pulse of the Capital”Now it is a colorful strip of photographs of Moscow, in the creation of which the residents themselves participate.

    Anyone can show the brightest moments from the life of the city. Every month, “active citizens” will be asked to send photos on certain topics dedicated to city events, projects, festivals and more. In addition, there is a permanent thematic section “Choice of Muscovites”: it is already accepting photos of city streets, metro stations, VDNKh pavilions, sports complexes and other city objects that appeared, changed or became better thanks to the decisions of the capital’s residents made during the voting in the “Active Citizen” project. These objects are published on online map.

    For example, Muscovites have determined what it will look like after reconstruction Northern River Terminal, voted for a new design for entry groupsVDNKh and improvement of the area around them.

    How to get to “Pulse of the Capital”

    To take part in the creation of the section “Pulse of the Capital”, users need to familiarize themselves with map of objects, then open the Active Citizen mobile app on your smartphone and go to the Photopulse section. Then you need to take a bright photo and upload the photo, adding a description of several words to it. After moderation, the photos will be published in the general section feed, where other users will be able to rate them by giving them a like.

    The 10 photos that receive the most ratings during the thematic period will be put to a citywide vote, based on the results of which the three best photos will be selected. Their authors will receive points for the city loyalty program. “A Million Prizes”: for first place – three thousand, for second – two thousand, for third – one thousand points. The winners will be able to use them to receive goods and services from the program partners or donate them to charity.

    Project “Active Citizen” has been operating since 2014. During this time, more than seven million people have joined it, and more than seven thousand votes have been held. Every month, 30 to 40 decisions are implemented in the city. The project is being developed by the State Institution “New Management Technologies” and the capital Department of Information Technology.

    The creation, development and operation of the e-government infrastructure, including the provision of mass socially significant services, as well as other services in electronic form, corresponds to the objectives of the national project “Data Economy and Digital Transformation of the State” and the regional project of the city of Moscow “Digital Public Administration”.

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

    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.

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    MIL OSI Russia News