NewzIntel.com

Category: Military Intelligence

  • MIL-OSI USA: NSF announces new NextG wireless funding opportunity

    Source: US Government research organizations

    The NSF VINES program will invest up to $100 million in advanced wireless communications networks

    The U.S. National Science Foundation today announced a new funding opportunity to support research and technology development that will improve the next generation of wireless communication systems known as NextG.     In collaboration with industry, other government agencies, and international partners, the NSF Verticals-enabling Intelligent NEtwork  Systems (NSF VINES) program will invest up to $100 million to accelerate performance and capabilities of next-generation (NextG) advanced intelligent network systems  spanning the user-edge-core-cloud continuum. 

    “NSF VINES will enhance U.S. competitiveness in advanced telecommunications technologies, including NextG wireless telecommunications and emerging potential NextG vertical industries, and prepare the American workforce for jobs available now and in the future,” said Brian Stone, performing the duties of the NSF Director.

    “This important investment from NSF, in collaboration with industry and other government agencies, will help strengthen U.S. leadership and ensure the American people reap the benefits in areas such as self-driving cars, advanced manufacturing, energy infrastructure, and beyond,” said Dr. Lynne Parker, Principal Deputy Director of The White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. 

    NSF VINES is in partnership with several major industry organizations and U.S. federal agencies, including Ericsson, Intel, Qualcomm, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Department of Defense Office of the Under Secretary for Research and Engineering, and U.S. Department of Commerce National Institute of Standards and Technology, as well as international partners from Finland, India, Japan and Sweden. 

    NSF VINES will invest in both use-inspired basic research (Track 1) as well as technological innovations that enable vertical applications, including piloting, prototyping and demonstration of high technology-readiness level solutions (Track 2). By collaborating with industry and international partners, the program will ensure U.S.-led technological advancements drive NextG global telecommunication networks as well as emerging “vertical industries” such as connected autonomous vehicles, advanced manufacturing, precision agriculture, disaster response, remote healthcare, critical infrastructure, and smart grids, among others. NSF will fund research teams spanning multiple fields to achieve the program goals. 

     Partnering with international organizations will also bring complementary expertise and resources that will accelerate the program’s impact on the development of global standards and interoperability. These collaborations will ensure that solutions address worldwide market and economic needs. 

    In addition, NSF VINES will support research and technology development that leverage other emerging technologies to advance NextG telecommunications networks. For example, artificial intelligence, machine learning and quantum communications will be deeply embedded in NextG networks, potentially transforming how they are designed, managed and utilized.

    NSF VINES offers two tracks:

    • Track 1 (Use-inspired Fundamental Research) will invest in activities focused on use-inspired fundamental research to develop novel networking techniques and solutions; and
    • Track 2 (Verticals-Driven Technology Development, Demonstration and Translation) will invest in activities focused on technology development, maturation, demonstration, integration and translation of solutions with higher technology readiness levels, with the goal of producing adoption-ready technologies.

    More information about VINES

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Uncertainty at NASA − Trump withdraws his nominee for administrator while the agency faces a steep proposed budget cut

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Wendy Whitman Cobb, Professor of Strategy and Security Studies, Air University

    The vehicle assembly building at the Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral, Fla. AP Photo/Marta Lavandier

    Over the past several days, NASA’s ambitious space exploration plans have experienced major setbacks. First, on May 30, 2025, newly released budget documents revealed the extent of the significant budget and personnel cuts proposed by the Trump administration. Then, just a day later, President Donald Trump withdrew the nomination of Jared Isaacman to be NASA administrator just days before an expected confirmation vote.

    From my perspective as a space policy expert, these events signal problems ahead for a space agency that now faces stiff competition in space exploration from the commercial sector. Without a leader and facing a fight over its budget, NASA faces an uncertain future, both in the months ahead and longer term.

    Budget problems

    When the Trump administration released a preview of its budget proposal in early May, it was clear that NASA was facing significant cuts.

    After receiving US$24.9 billion for 2025, the president’s proposal would allot NASA $18.8 billion in 2026. After accounting for inflation, this amount would represent NASA’s smallest budget since 1961.

    Space science programs are one of the largest targets of the proposed budget cuts, seeing an almost 50% reduction, to just $3.9 billion. Specific programs targeted for elimination include the Mars Sample Return mission, the currently operating Mars Odyssey and MAVEN missions around Mars, and several missions to Venus.

    Several ongoing and proposed astrophysics programs, including the Chandra X-Ray Observatory, would also end if the proposed budget passes.

    NASA’s human spaceflight programs also face potential cuts. The budget proposes canceling the Space Launch System, the Orion crew vehicle and the Lunar Gateway following the Artemis III mission.

    Artemis III, planned for 2027, would be the first crewed flight back to the lunar surface since 1972. The mission would use the Space Launch System rocket and Orion crew vehicle to get there. The proposed Lunar Gateway, a mini-space station in lunar orbit, would be abandoned entirely.

    Instead, the budget proposes to establish a Commercial Moon to Mars program. Under this initiative, NASA would utilize commercial systems such as Blue Origin’s New Glenn and SpaceX’s Starship to put Americans on the Moon and Mars.

    Several Mars missions, including the Mars Sample Return, MAVEN and Mars Odyssey, would be canceled under the proposed budget. It would instead establish a program to work with commercial partners to put humans on the red planet.
    NASA, ESA, Zolt G. Levay (STScI)

    A smaller budget also means a smaller NASA workforce. The budget proposal suggests that the number of NASA employees would be reduced by one-third, from more than 17,000 to 11,853.

    Advocates for space science and exploration have criticized the cuts. The Planetary Society has stated that these cuts to space science represent an “extinction level event” that would all but end NASA’s ability to perform meaningful science.

    Democrats in Congress were also quick to push back on the proposed cuts, arguing that they would hamper the U.S.’s ability to carry out its missions.

    The budget documents released so far are just proposals. Congress must make the final decisions on how much money NASA gets and which programs are funded. While this might be good news for NASA funding, my research has shown that Congress rarely appropriates more money for NASA than the president requests.

    Leadership challenges

    The release of the president’s proposed budget was followed with the news that the president would withdraw his nomination of Jared Isaacman to be NASA’s administrator.

    Jared Isaacman, the former nominee for NASA administrator, is a businessman who has been to space on several commercial flights.
    AP Photo/John Raoux, File

    In a Truth Social post, Trump wrote, “After a thorough review of prior associations, I am hereby withdrawing the nomination of Jared Isaacman to head NASA. I will soon announce a new Nominee who will be Mission aligned, and put America First in Space.”

    Like the budget proposal, news of Isaacman’s withdrawal has also hit the space community hard. Following his nomination, Isaacman won the support of many in the space industry and in government. His confirmation hearing in April was largely uncontentious, with support from both Republicans and Democrats.

    NASA will now need to wait for the president to make a new choice for NASA administrator. That person will then need to go through the same process as Isaacman, with a hearing in the Senate and several votes.

    Given the amount of time it takes for nominations to make their way through the Senate, NASA is likely to face several more months without a confirmed administrator. This absence will come while many of its programs will be fighting for money and their existence.

    The months ahead

    Like many federal agencies right now, NASA faces a tumultuous future. Budgetary and leadership challenges might be the immediate problem, but NASA’s long-term future is potentially rocky as well.

    Since its founding, NASA’s mission has been largely centered on sending humans to space.

    If that role shifts to commercial companies, NASA will need to grapple with what its identity and mission is going forward.

    History provides some insight. One of NASA’s forerunners, the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics, or NACA, largely focused on advanced research and development of aeronautical technologies. For instance, NACA researched things such as proper engine placement on airliners as well as advances that helped air flow more efficiently over those engines.

    A new NASA that’s more similar to NACA might continue research into nuclear engines or other advanced space technology that may contribute to the work commercial space companies are already doing.

    Choices made by the Trump administration and Congress in the coming months will likely shape what NASA will look like in the years to come. Until then, NASA, like many government organizations, faces a period of uncertainty about its future.

    Wendy N. Whitman Cobb is affiliated with the US School of Advanced Air and Space Studies. Her views are her own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Department of Defense or any of its components.

    – ref. Uncertainty at NASA − Trump withdraws his nominee for administrator while the agency faces a steep proposed budget cut – https://theconversation.com/uncertainty-at-nasa-trump-withdraws-his-nominee-for-administrator-while-the-agency-faces-a-steep-proposed-budget-cut-258032

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: Optery Wins 2025 Fortress Cybersecurity Award for Privacy Enhancing Technologies

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN FRANCISCO, June 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Optery has been named a winner in the 2025 Fortress Cybersecurity Awards, presented by the Business Intelligence Group. The company was recognized in the category of Privacy Enhancing Technologies for its work in reducing the online exposure of employee and executive personal data—the most exploited vulnerability in modern cyberattacks.

    The Fortress Cybersecurity Awards program honors the industry’s leading companies and professionals who are going beyond compliance to build and maintain secure systems and processes. Winners are selected based on innovation, measurable impact, and commitment to security best practices.

    “The volume and complexity of threats facing organizations today is growing by the minute,” said Russ Fordyce, CEO of the Business Intelligence Group. “The winners of this year’s Fortress Cybersecurity Awards are not only keeping up—they’re setting the pace. We’re proud to honor Optery for building systems and solutions that make us all more secure.”

    Optery was recognized for its enterprise-grade personal data removal platform that finds and eliminates exposed PII from the web, protecting organizations from a range of PII-based threats such as social engineering and credential compromise.

    “We are honored to receive this award from the Business Intelligence Group,” said Lawrence Gentilello, CEO of Optery. “Today’s threat landscape demands that companies tackle personal data exposure to prevent cyber and physical attacks, but it requires the right tech and expertise. Innovation means little without measurable impact, and this recognition validates the work our team puts in every day to ensure we remain the industry leader in personal data removal.”

    “Personal data exposure across data broker sites fuels today’s most successful attack vectors—phishing, smishing, and business email compromise—making privacy essential to security,” said Paul Mander, GM of Optery for Business. “We’re grateful to be acknowledged for helping organizations close this critical vulnerability with unmatched scale and precision.”

    To learn more about the Fortress Cybersecurity Awards, visit: https://www.bintelligence.com/awards/fortress-cybersecurity-awards

    About Optery www.optery.com

    Optery is the first company to offer a free report with dozens of screenshots showing where your personal information is being posted by hundreds of data brokers online, and the first to offer IT teams a completely self-service platform for finding and removing employee personal information from the web. Optery subscription plans automatically remove customers from these sites, clearing your home address, phone number, email, and other personal information from the Internet at scale. The service provides users with a proactive defense against escalating PII-based threats such as phishing and other social engineering attacks, credential compromise, identity fraud, doxing, and harassment. Optery has completed its AICPA SOC 2, Type II security attestation, and distinguishes itself with unparalleled search technology, data removal automation, visual evidence-based before-and-after reporting, data broker coverage, and API integration options. Optery was awarded “Editors’ Choice” by PCMag.com as the most outstanding product in the personal data removal category in 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025, received Fast Company’s Next Big Things in Tech award for security and privacy in 2023, was named winner in the Employee Privacy Protection, Attack Surface Management, and Digital Footprint Management categories of the 2024 and 2025 Cybersecurity Excellence Awards, received the Top InfoSec Innovator Award for Attack Surface Management by Cyber Defense Magazine in 2024, and won the Best Service for Attack Surface Management award from Cyber Defense Magazine in 2025. Hundreds of thousands of people and hundreds of businesses use Optery to prevent attacks and keep their personal information off the Internet.

    About Business Intelligence Group www.bintelligence.com

    The Business Intelligence Group was founded with the mission of recognizing true talent and superior performance in the business world. Unlike other industry award programs, these programs are judged by business executives with real-world experience. The organization’s proprietary scoring system measures performance across multiple business domains and rewards companies whose achievements are significant and measurable.

    Media Contact

    Sara Trammell
    Director of Marketing
    Optery for Business
    sara@optery.com

    Eliana Starbird
    Chief Nominations Officer
    Business Intelligence Group
    +1 909-529-2737
    contact@bintelligence.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5d8828cb-356a-4054-afc9-2ac825528e28

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Autocrats don’t act like Hitler or Stalin anymore − instead of governing with violence, they use manipulation

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Daniel Treisman, Professor of Political Science, University of California, Los Angeles

    Autocrats today tend to govern by manipulation of the public, among other tactics, rather than solely using violence. Nanzeeba Ibnat/iStock/Getty Images Plus

    President Donald Trump’s critics often accuse him of harboring authoritarian ambitions. Journalists and scholars have drawn parallels between his leadership style and that of strongmen abroad. Some Democrats warn that the U.S. is sliding toward autocracy – a system in which one leader holds unchecked power.

    Others counter that labeling Trump an autocrat is alarmist. After all, he hasn’t suspended the Constitution, forced school children to memorize his sayings or executed his rivals, as dictators such as Augusto Pinochet, Mao Zedong and Saddam Hussein once did.

    But modern autocrats don’t always resemble their 20th-century predecessors.

    Instead, they project a polished image, avoid overt violence and speak the language of democracy. They wear suits, hold elections and talk about the will of the people. Rather than terrorizing citizens, many use media control and messaging to shape public opinion and promote nationalist narratives. Many gain power not through military coups but at the ballot box.

    The softer power of today’s autocrats

    In the early 2000s, political scientist Andreas Schedler coined the term “electoral authoritarianism” to describe regimes that hold elections without real competition. Scholars Steven Levitsky and Lucan Way use another phrase, “competitive authoritarianism,” for systems in which opposition parties exist but leaders undermine them through censorship, electoral fraud or legal manipulation.

    In my own work with economist Sergei Guriev, we explore a broader strategy that modern autocrats use to gain and maintain power. We call this “informational autocracy” or “spin dictatorship.”

    These leaders don’t rely on violent repression. Instead, they craft the illusion that they are competent, democratic defenders of the nation – protecting it from foreign threats or internal enemies who seek to undermine its culture or steal its wealth.

    President Donald Trump appears at an Air Force base in Doha, Qatar, on May 15, 2025.
    Win McNamee/Getty Images

    Hungary’s democratic facade

    Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán exemplifies this approach. He first served from 1998 to 2002, returned to power in 2010 and has since won three more elections – in 2014, 2018 and 2022 – after campaigns that international observers criticized as “intimidating and xenophobic.”

    Orbán has preserved the formal structures of democracy – courts, a parliament and regular elections – but has systematically hollowed them out.

    In his first two years he packed Hungary’s constitutional court, which reviews laws for constitutionality, with loyalists, forced judges off the bench by mandating a lower retirement age and rewrote the constitution to limit judicial review of his actions. He also tightened government control over independent media.

    To boost his image, Orbán funneled state advertising funds to friendly news outlets. In 2016, an ally bought Hungary’s largest opposition newspaper – then shut it down.

    Orbán has also targeted advocacy groups and universities. The Central European University, which was registered in both Budapest and the U.S., was once a symbol of the new democratic Hungary. But a law penalizing foreign-accredited institutions forced it to relocate to Vienna in 2020.

    Yet Orbán has mostly avoided violence. Journalists are harassed rather than jailed or killed. Critics are discredited for their beliefs but not abducted. His appeal rests on a narrative that Hungary is under siege – by immigrants, liberal elites and foreign influences – and that only he can defend its sovereignty and Christian identity. That message resonates with older, rural, conservative voters, even as it alienates younger, urban populations.

    A global shift in autocrats

    In recent decades, variants of spin dictatorship have appeared in Singapore, Malaysia, Kazakhstan, Russia, Ecuador and Venezuela. Leaders such as Hugo Chávez and the early Vladimir Putin consolidated power and marginalized opposition with minimal violence.

    Data confirm this trend. Drawing from human rights reports, historical records and local media, my colleague Sergei Guriev and I found that the global incidence of political killings and imprisonments by autocrats dropped significantly from the 1980s to the 2010s.

    Why? In an interconnected world, overt repression has costs. Attacking journalists and dissidents can prompt foreign governments to impose economic sanctions and discourage international companies from investing. Curbing free expression risks stifling scientific and technological innovation – something even autocrats need in modern, knowledge-based economies.

    Still, when crises erupt, even spin dictators often revert to more traditional tactics. Russia’s Putin has cracked down violently on
    protesters and jailed opposition leaders. Meanwhile, more brutal regimes such as those in North Korea and China continue to rule by spreading fear, combining mass incarceration with advanced surveillance technologies.

    But overall, spin is replacing terror.

    America too?

    Most experts, myself included, agree that the U.S. remains a democracy.

    Yet some of Trump’s tactics resemble those of informational autocrats. He has attacked the press, defied court rulings and pressured universities to curtail academic independence and limit international admissions. His admiration for strongmen such as Putin, China’s Xi Jinping and El Salvador’s Nayib Bukele alarms observers. At the same time, Trump routinely denigrates democratic allies and international institutions such as the United Nations and NATO.

    Some experts say democracy depends on politicians’ self restraint. But a system that survives only if leaders choose to respect its limits is not much of a system at all.
    What matters more is whether the press, judiciary, nonprofit organizations, professional associations, churches, unions, universities and citizens have the power – and the will – to hold leaders accountable.

    Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán delivers a speech at a hotel in Madrid on Feb. 8, 2025.
    Thomas Coex/AFP via Getty Images

    Preserving democracy in the US

    Wealthy democracies such as the U.S., Canada and many Western European countries benefit from robust institutions such as newspapers, universities, courts and advocacy groups that act as checks on government.

    Such institutions help explain why populists such as Italy’s Silvio Berlusconi or Israel’s Benjamin Netanyahu, although accused of bending electoral rules and threatening judicial independence, have not dismantled democracy outright in their countries.

    In the U.S., the Constitution provides another layer of protection. Amending it requires a two-thirds majority in both houses of Congress and ratification by three-quarters of the states – a far steeper hurdle than in Hungary, where Orbán needed only a two-thirds parliamentary majority to rewrite the constitution.

    Of course, even the U.S. Constitution can be undermined if a president defies the Supreme Court. But doing so risks igniting a constitutional crisis and alienating key supporters.

    That doesn’t mean American democracy is safe from erosion. But its institutional foundations are older, deeper and more decentralized than those of many newer democracies. Its federal structure, with overlapping jurisdictions and multiple veto points, makes it harder for any one leader to dominate.

    Still, the global rise of spin dictatorships should sharpen awareness of what is happening in the U.S. Around the world, autocrats have learned to control their citizens by faking democracy. Understanding their techniques may help Americans to preserve the real thing.

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

    – ref. Autocrats don’t act like Hitler or Stalin anymore − instead of governing with violence, they use manipulation – https://theconversation.com/autocrats-dont-act-like-hitler-or-stalin-anymore-instead-of-governing-with-violence-they-use-manipulation-256665

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/UGANDA – Failed attack near the Basilica of the Uganda Martyrs on their commemoration day; two suicide bombers killed

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Kampala (Agenzia Fides) – On the morning of June 3, an explosion occurred approximately 500 meters from the Uganda Martyrs Shrine in Munyonyo. According to the Ugandan Army (UPDF), the explosion occurred during an operation to thwart an attack. “This morning, a UPDF counter-terrorism unit intercepted and neutralized two armed terrorists in Munyonyo, an upscale city suburb. It was an intelligence-led operation, and the security services are on heightened alert to ensure the Martyrs Day celebrations proceed without disruption,” an army spokesperson said.June 3 marks the liturgical feast of the Holy Martyrs of Uganda: a group of 22 Catholic and 23 Anglican converts to Christianity in the kingdom of Buganda, now part of Uganda, who were executed between 31 January 1885 and 27 January 1887.During these days, the Munyonyo Shrine – erected as a Minor Basilica in 2019—welcomes nearly two and a half million pilgrims, from not only Uganda but also from neighboring countries and other regions of the world.According to preliminary reports, the two alleged attackers, who were wearing explosive vests and were allegedly trying to access the basilica, were intercepted by an anti-terrorist unit. “Our specialized counter terrorism combat unit opened fire at the terrorists, sparking an explosion that killed them,” a military source stated. The dismembered bodies of the terrorists were found at the scene, along with the remains of a motorcycle destroyed by the explosion. The area was cordoned off to allow the intervention of military bomb disposal units, who verified the absence of other explosive devices, and to facilitate the work of forensic investigation teams. Security authorities are now working to identify the suspects, determine their targets, and clarify whether they were acting on their own or as part of a broader terrorist network.Police Inspector General Abbas Byakagaba urged the public to remain calm and cooperate with the authorities by reporting any suspicious person, object, or activity. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 3/6/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Former Victim’s Commissioner and Defence KC appointed to provide strong leadership to miscarriage of justice investigator

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Former Victim’s Commissioner and Defence KC appointed to provide strong leadership to miscarriage of justice investigator

    Dame Vera Baird DBE KC has been appointed as interim chair of the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC) to provide hands on governance and strong leadership.

    • Dame Vera Baird DBE KC appointed as interim chair of the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC)
    • Urgent review ordered to restore public confidence in the organisation
    • Justice for the wrongfully convicted vital to Government’s Plan for Change

    Dame Vera Baird DBE KC has today (3 June) been appointed as the interim Chair of the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC).

    Her appointment marks the Lord Chancellors determination to ensure the CCRC is effectively delivering its vital function investigating potential miscarriages of justice and bringing justice to those who have been wrongly convicted.

    The Chair of the CCRC is responsible for leading the board, setting the vision and core purpose of the organisation,  maintaining public trust and confidence by being a visible, effective advocate and ambassador, and supporting their leadership. Dame Vera will provide hands on governance and strong leadership in the role.

    The Lord Chancellor has also tasked Dame Vera with undertaking an urgent review into the running of the CCRC, ensuring lessons have been learned from the handling of previous cases and that the public can have confidence in the organisation again.

    Lord Chancellor, Shabana Mahmood, said:

    Miscarriages of justice have a devastating and life-long impact.

    The organisation tasked with uncovering them must earn back the public’s trust in the justice system, vital to our Plan for Change.

    Dame Vera will bring strong leadership to the Criminal Cases Review Commission – I want her review to restore its role uncovering and rectifying historical injustices.

    Dame Vera has been tasked with reviewing the governance and leadership within the CCRC, and its capability in investigating potential miscarriages of justice. The impact of the organisation’s internal culture will be evaluated, as well as the value for money it delivers for the taxpayer.

    Dame Vera, as a former defender and Victims Commissioner, understands the criminal justice system from all sides and is a long-standing advocate for fairness and justice.

    Dame Vera Baird said:

    When the justice system makes mistakes, as all human institutions do, from time to time,  the role of the CCRC is crucial in uncovering them – providing the only lifeline available for the wrongfully convicted.

    It is vital the public can have confidence in an organisation whose constitutional importance is so central to a fair and just system.

    I look forward to working alongside the many hardworking and dedicated members of staff to restore that confidence, ensuring recommendations stemming from multiple reviews over the last decade are being effectively implemented, as well as identifying further areas for improvement.

    Dame Vera’s term will run from June 2025 to December 2026 ahead of a permanent appointment being made. In addition to delivering the review, the interim Chair is responsible for setting the direction of the CCRC and communicating progress with the Government – particularly in light of Chris Henley KC’s 2024 report which made major recommendations following the handling of Andrew Malkinson’s case.

    The review will include but not be limited to:

    • Effectiveness: The extent to which the organisation is operating effectively to deliver the CCRC’s statutory responsibilities, including the understanding and application of the ‘real possibility’ test, and the CCRC’s processes for oversight and quality control of casework.

    • Performance: To evaluate the CCRC’s performance, assess whether the appropriate Key Performance Indicators and targets are in place, and ensure effective strategies and action plans are in place and implemented to improve performance. Additionally, an assessment of the robustness of the management information provided by the CCRC to its departmental sponsor, ensuring it enables effective oversight and assurance on behalf of the Principal Accounting Officer and Ministers.
    • Governance: To evaluate the effectiveness of the organisation’s governance, including its structure and operational efficiency, and the effectiveness of the structural relationship between the Commissioners, the Body Corporate, the Board, and the Executive.
    • Culture: To review the culture of the organisation, in particular in its approach to and interactions with applicants, potential applicants and their representatives.
    • Capability: An evaluation of the senior leadership team should also be conducted to identify areas where further support or strengthening is needed, in order restore public confidence.
    • Funding: To assess whether the CCRC provides value for money within its current funding levels and ensure that the funds are used effectively to achieve high-quality outcomes. To rigorously evaluate whether the CCRC delivers value for money within its existing funding envelope, ensuring that it is utilised efficiently to achieve high-quality outcomes. This assessment will focus on maximising current resources.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Green Welcomes New State Fire Marshal

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    Governor Green Welcomes New State Fire Marshal

    Posted on Jun 2, 2025 in Featured, Latest Department News, Newsroom, Office of the Governor Press Releases

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI 
    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI 
     
    JOSH GREEN, M.D. 
    GOVERNOR
    KE KIAʻĀINA 

     

    GOVERNOR GREEN WELCOMES NEW STATE FIRE MARSHAL
    The Position was Abolished Nearly 46 Years Ago

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    June 2, 2025

    HONOLULU — Governor Josh Green, M.D., today announced the appointment of Dori Booth as Hawai‘i’s new State Fire Marshal, reviving a critical public safety position that has been vacant for nearly 46 years. The original Office of the State Fire Marshal was abolished by Act 241 of the 1978 Session Laws of Hawaiʻi, with its responsibilities devolved to the counties as of July 1, 1979.

    This appointment marks a historic return to a centralized approach to statewide fire protection — one that was strongly recommended by independent wildfire investigation reports following the devastating 2023 Maui wildfires.

    “Dori Booth steps into this role at a moment of incredible urgency — and with a mission that’s nothing short of transformative,” said Governor Green. “We are rebuilding an entire fire safety infrastructure at the state level, and Dori is at the center of it. She’ll need to navigate the complex division of responsibilities between the counties and the state, set up a new operational structure, and immediately implement top-priority reforms to protect our communities. It may sound like bureaucracy — but the goal is simple: save lives, protect property and keep Hawai‘i safe.”

    Fire Marshal Booth has familiarized herself with the wildfires investigation reports by the Fire Safety Research Institute and will be leading the charge on executing the 10 priorities identified in the Phase II report.

    “It’s an honor to step into this role at such a critical time for Hawaiʻi,” Booth said. “The lessons from the Maui wildfires are still fresh, and our responsibility is clear: We must do everything in our power to prevent future tragedies. That means stronger coordination, smarter planning, and a relentless focus on community safety. And when wildfires or other disasters cannot be prevented, we must be resilient — to protect Hawaiʻi’s most precious resources: its people, history, culture and places of deep significance. I’m committed to working with community members, county, state and federal partners — as well as our first responders — to build a fire protection system that reflects the strength and resilience of Hawaiʻi’s people.”

    Booth brings more than two decades of leadership in fire safety and public service. Prior to her appointment, she served as Division Chief of Community Risk Reduction for the Sedona Fire District, and previously rose to Deputy Fire Marshal with the Phoenix Fire Department. In these roles, she led major fire prevention programs, high-risk inspections, hazardous materials response, and public safety planning for large venues and airports. A U.S. Army veteran, Booth served in Iraq, Kuwait and Afghanistan, where she specialized in civil-military operations and infrastructure stability. Her service earned her the Bronze Star Medal and Combat Action Badge.

    She holds a Master’s degree in Public Safety Leadership Administration and a Bachelor’s in Sustainable Tourism Development and Management, both from Arizona State University. Booth also serves in a national leadership role with the International Code Council, chairing the Fire Sprinkler Exam Development Committee.

    “The Fire Marshal will have a very important role in protecting our communities,” said Department of Law Enforcement Director Mike Lambert. “The Department of Law Enforcement looks forward to helping Dori be successful and we are honored that we have been entrusted to work with her side by side to keep Hawai‘i among the safest states in the nation.”

    The fire marshal position was initially recreated by the 2024 Legislature in order to address the post-Maui wildfires third-party investigation reports initiated by the Department of the Attorney General, recommending a prioritized list of action items of changes to be made to improve Hawai‘i’s response to wildfires for the state and all counties. The 2024 legislation was amended in the most recent session to, among other changes, place the office of the State Fire Marshal under the Department of Law Enforcement.

    A headshot of Dori Booth can be found here.
    Additional photos, courtesy the Office of the Governor, can be found here.

    # # #


    Media Contacts:  
    Erika Engle
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Governor, State of Hawai‘i
    Office: 808-586-0120
    Email: [email protected] 

    Makana McClellan
    Director of Communications
    Office of the Governor, State of Hawaiʻi
    Cell: 808-265-0083
    Email: [email protected]

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Mining in Motion: Ghana Unveils 5-Pillar Strategy to Transform the Mining Industry

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    ACCRA, Ghana, June 3, 2025/APO Group/ —

    Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, Ghana’s Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, outlined a five-pillar strategy for the country’s mining industry at the Mining in Motion 2025 summit. The strategy is aimed at reforming the sector while empowering artisanal and small-scale mining (ASGM) initiatives.

    In a presentation during the opening of the summit, Minister Buah underscored how the strategy is designed to address illegal mining, which has significantly impacted the environment. Illegal mining occupies over 16% of the nation’s forests, degrading more than 5,500 hectares. As such, the strategy seeks to address this issue by enhancing ASGM developments. ASGM operations have grown to account for 52.1% of Ghana’s total gold exports in 2025, and the strategy aims to further optimize the industry’s expansion.

    “Of the $4 billion in goods shipped from Ghana in Q1, 2025, 52.1% is from artisanal and small-scale miners – hence the need to ensure that mining is done in a sustainable manner,” stated Minister Buah.

    The first pillar of the strategy focuses on reforming the licensing regime. According to Minister Buah, the Ministry is currently overhauling the existing Minerals and Mining Act to attract new investments and bring in fresh ASGM players. This includes reviewing and restructuring licenses to ensure they align with Ghana’s national development agenda.

    “The strategy came into implementation four months ago and we want to ensure we do mining right,” stated Minister Buah.

    The second pillar centers on enhancing law enforcement. The Ministry is collaborating with various government agencies to intensify the arrest and prosecution of those engaged in illegal mining. This includes the creation of an independent Anti-Illegal Mining Military Task Force and the reorganization of security operations at both district and community levels.

    Environmental restoration is also a key priority. Under the third pillar, the Ministry has reclaimed eight out of nine forest reserves previously designated as red zones for illegal mining within just four months. Reforestation programs are now underway to restore these degraded areas and ensure long-term environmental sustainability.

    The fourth pillar emphasizes stakeholder engagement and public education. The Ministry is working closely with traditional authorities, lawmakers, civil society organizations and the general public to promote sustainable practices and encourage collective responsibility in preserving Ghana’s natural resources.

    “Lack of jobs and skills has been the main cause of illegal mining and we are dealing with this directly by diversifying employment. We want to create over 150,000 new jobs,” stated Minister Buah.

    The fifth pillar aims to provide alternative livelihoods and job opportunities, especially for youth and individuals previously involved in illegal mining. Through programs such as the National Alternative Employment and Livelihood Program for Illegal Miners; the 1 Million Coders Program; and initiatives by the Youth Employment Agency, the government is offering skills training and employment placement. These efforts are designed to reduce reliance on illegal mining and diversify economic opportunities across the country.

    The pillars will be achieved through various strategies such as the Ghana Gold Board, the Minerals Development Fund, the Minerals Income Investment Fund, Geofencing of Excavators, the Investment in Geological Investigations of Mineralized Areas, Small-Scale Mining Cooperatives, the Blue Water Initiative, the Tree for Life Initiative and the Anti-Illegal Mining Secretariat.

    Organized by the Ashanti Green Initiative – led by Oheneba Kwaku Duah, Prince of Ghana’s Ashanti Kingdom – in collaboration with Ghana’s Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, World Bank, and the World Gold Council, with the support of Ghana’s Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, the summit offers unparalleled opportunities to connect with industry leaders.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese peacekeepers in Abyei visit local school 2025-06-03 18:59:06 On the occasion of the 75th International Children’s Day, the Chinese Peacekeeping Military Utility Helicopter Unit and the Rapid Response Unit to the UNISFA visited the Comboni Primary School in Abyei Township near the mission area.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense

      BEIJING, June 3 — On the occasion of the 75th International Children’s Day, the Chinese Peacekeeping Military Utility Helicopter Unit and the Rapid Response Unit to the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) visited the Comboni Primary School in Abyei Township near the mission area to extend festival greetings and care to the local teachers and students, and convey peace and friendship through cultural exchanges.

      During the visit, the Chinese peacekeepers donated more than 1,200 pieces of teaching supplies including schoolbags, stationery, and sports and cultural items to help improve the local teaching conditions. Subsequently, they presented an art performance featuring traditional Chinese culture to the teachers and students.

      It is learned that the Chinese peacekeepers have been persistently carrying out educational assistance and support projects in the mission area. Over the past five years, the Chinese Peacekeeping Military Utility Helicopter Unit and the Rapid Response Unit to the UNISFA have visited the local schools for over 20 times. In addition to donating supplies, they also regularly conducts Chinese language teaching and basic science courses to help enhance the local education level, demonstrating the responsibility of a “peace envoy” through practical actions. 

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IDF Expands Ground Operations in Gaza

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    JERUSALEM, June 3 (Xinhua) — The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said Monday that it has expanded ground operations in the Gaza Strip over the past 24 hours.

    The move follows an order issued Sunday by IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir to expand the ground offensive to additional areas in both the north and south of the enclave.

    The IDF said its troops killed militants and destroyed weapons depots and above-ground and underground infrastructure.

    In addition, since Sunday, Israeli aircraft have struck dozens of targets across the Gaza Strip, “including terrorist cells, military installations belonging to terrorist organizations in the Gaza Strip, tunnels, weapons depots and additional terrorist infrastructure,” the statement said.

    The escalation of fighting followed disagreements in proximity talks between Israel and Hamas over a US proposal for a ceasefire and the release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Two terror suspects killed in Uganda bomb blast

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    KAMPALA, June 3 (Xinhua) — Ugandan troops said on Tuesday they killed two suspected terrorists carrying explosive devices in the country’s capital.

    Army spokesman Chris Magezi told Xinhua by telephone that the bomb exploded while two suspects were being detained.

    “One of the suspects was actually a suicide bomber, a woman,” said K. Magezi, adding that the suspects were riding a motorcycle in Munyonyo, a suburb of Kampala. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Gilat Signs a $40 Million Contract for Virtualized SkyEdge IV Platform

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PETAH TIKVA, Israel, June 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. (NASDAQ: GILT, TASE: GILT), a worldwide leader in satellite networking technology, solutions and services, announced today that it has received a $40 million contract for its virtualized SkyEdge IV platform, expected to be delivered over the next 24 months. Designed with a cloud-native architecture and ready for future 5G-NTN (Non-Terrestrial Network) standards, the platform marks a major step forward in the transformation of satellite ground networks, enabling satellite operators and service providers to meet the evolving demands of modern connectivity.

    This milestone award demonstrates the successful evolution strategy of Gilat’s SkyEdge IV platform, now virtualized over cloud infrastructure and utilizing the DIFI digital interface open standard. The multi-service, fully virtualized SkyEdge IV software platform delivers unprecedented adaptability, scalability, and efficiency, enabling satellite operators to deploy the platform on standard cloud-based infrustructure and thereby accelerate the delivery of multi-orbit next-generation services.

    This deployment also marks a significant step in the SkyEdge IV evolution plan for 5G NTN, further solidifying Gilat’s move towards ground segment digital transformation. This evolution promises standard ubiquitous connectivity across terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks, a multi-vendor open ecosystem for the satcom industry, and new revenue streams from new use cases.

    “We are excited to support new software-defined satellites, delivering a virtualized next-generation ground segment architecture,” said Ron Levin, President Commercial Division at Gilat. “This puts Gilat on an accelerated R&D development path and rapid evolution toward a 5G-NTN standard platform and introduction of new services.”

    About Gilat

    Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. (NASDAQ: GILT, TASE: GILT) is a leading global provider of satellite-based broadband communications. With over 35 years of experience, we develop and deliver deep technology solutions for satellite, ground, and new space connectivity, offering next-generation solutions and services for critical connectivity across commercial and defense applications. We believe in the right of all people to be connected and are united in our resolution to provide communication solutions to all reaches of the world.

    Together with our wholly owned subsidiaries—Gilat Wavestream, Gilat DataPath, and Gilat Stellar Blu—we offer integrated, high-value solutions supporting multi-orbit constellations, Very High Throughput Satellites (VHTS), and Software-Defined Satellites (SDS) via our Commercial and Defense Divisions. Our comprehensive portfolio is comprised of a cloud-based platform and modems; high-performance satellite terminals; advanced Satellite On-the-Move (SOTM) antennas and ESAs; highly efficient, high-power Solid State Power Amplifiers (SSPA) and Block Upconverters (BUC) and includes integrated ground systems for commercial and defense markets, field services, network management software, and cybersecurity services.

    Gilat’s products and tailored solutions support multiple applications including government and defense, IFC and mobility, broadband access, cellular backhaul, enterprise, aerospace, broadcast, and critical infrastructure clients all while meeting the most stringent service level requirements. For more information, please visit: http://www.gilat.com

    Certain statements made herein that are not historical are forward-looking within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words “estimate”, “project”, “intend”, “expect”, “believe” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Many factors could cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Gilat to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements that may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including, among others, changes in general economic and business conditions, inability to maintain market acceptance to Gilat’s products, inability to timely develop and introduce new technologies, products and applications, rapid changes in the market for Gilat’s products, loss of market share and pressure on prices resulting from competition, introduction of competing products by other companies, inability to manage growth and expansion, loss of key OEM partners, inability to attract and retain qualified personnel, inability to protect the Company’s proprietary technology and risks associated with Gilat’s international operations and its location in Israel, including those related to the hostilities between Israel and Hamas. For additional information regarding these and other risks and uncertainties associated with Gilat’s business, reference is made to Gilat’s reports filed from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements for any reason.

    Contact:

    Gilat Satellite Networks

    Hagay Katz, Chief Product and Marketing Officer
    hagayk@gilat.com

    Alliance Advisors:

    GilatIR@allianceadvisors.com
    Phone: +1 212 838 3777

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Olli Rehn: Macroeconomic policy in times of global political upheaval

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    Ladies and Gentlemen, Colleagues and Friends,

    Welcome to the sunny, spring-time Helsinki. On behalf of the Bank of Finland and the Centre for Economic Policy Research, it is my great pleasure to open this year’s research conference on monetary economics – which again has an excellent and a most fascinating programme!

    Let me begin with a mission statement – and a confession. Our slogan at the Bank of Finland is: “Securing stability – in science we trust.” That is, we lean on evidence- and theory-based economic analysis and policy-relevant research to support our stability mission.

    However, I must make a confession. In this turbulent world, it is comforting to return to a familiar setting and reflect on policy challenges alongside leading economists. Although only eight months have passed since our last gathering, it feels like the global landscape has shifted dramatically.

    And the confession is this, in front of you as researchers, scholars, scientists, leading economists; in these times of pervasive uncertainty, we need plenty of judgment and scenario analysis to supplement our economic and econometric research and regression equations, thus making monetary policy, by necessity, is as much an art as a science. Such is life in these strange times – but finally, at least, it dis make me understand why the Governor at Bank of Finland is, ex officio, also the chair of the arts committee of the Bank!

    Talking about geopolitics and its effects, just look at the ECB’s evolving language. Uncertainty went from “increased” to “high,” then “pervasive,” and now, per President Lagarde, “exceptional.” This isn’t linguistic inflation. It reflects how genuinely hard forecasting has become, with markets pricing in risk at levels not seen in years.

    Risks abound: from trade wars to faltering global alliances. For central bankers and researchers alike, this is no time for complacency. Instead of dissecting every new risk, today I want to focus on three key areas:

    • Lessons from the recent inflation surge;
    • Open questions around fiscal policy, particularly defence spending;
    • And finally, the role of productivity and innovation.

    Low inflation – past and future

    Let’s nevertheless recall there are some good news. The European economy is recovering. Unemployment is at 6.1%, the lowest since the euro’s creation. Inflation has been hovering just above 2% since late 2023, allowing the ECB to cut rates seven times.

    The energy shock that hit Europe in spring 2022 has played out very differently than in the 1970s, with the economic cost being much lower this time. Thanks to increased labour supply and lower working hours, wage-price spirals were avoided. Today’s labour market is more flexible, less unionised, and better educated.

    Importantly, inflation expectations were much better anchored before the recent inflation surge. This underlies the importance of central bank independence and a strong commitment to the inflation target. The ECB has focused firmly on maintaining these, and will continue to do so.

    Before Covid, the main challenge was that inflation remained stubbornly below the target. Most risks to the inflation outlook were deflationary, including population ageing and the related increase in savings, and the low investment demand. And before the ECB’s 2021 review and move to a symmetric 2% target over the medium term, which has worked well, the inflation target was perceived as a ceiling, creating a downward bias.

    From around 2021, inflationary pressures reappeared. First this was due to the pandemic-broken supply chains and stimulus-fuelled demand, then due to the energy shocks arising from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

    We learned how demand and supply shocks can be deeply intertwined. But we still face many unknowns in that regard. Current geopolitical tensions may expose us to new surprises that we have little historical experience of. Preferably, the spectre of a prolonged trade war with the US will dissipate sooner rather than later, as an economic conflict between long-standing friends and allies is the last thing we need in a world challenged by dictatorial impulses and by a neocolonial mentality.

    Furthermore, what if China shifts exports away from the US to Europe, slashing prices to compete? That could bring deflationary forces and industrial strain to the EU. Would it benefit consumers or hurt our economy overall? The policy response would not be straightforward.

    Let’s hope we don’t have to answer these questions through crisis. Whatever the challenge, the ECB will remain focused on price stability and its symmetric 2% inflation target over the medium term.

    Defence spending – new pressures

    Since the pandemic, fiscal spending pressures have risen. Now, security concerns are adding fuel. Russia’s aggression and doubts about US defence commitments are prompting big spending shifts across Europe. Germany is paving the way and has eased its constitutional debt limits.

    We can assume that with normal execution lags the most substantial fiscal impact will start to be felt from next year 2026 and 2027 onwards. This implies that the fiscal impact on the growth and inflation outlook will take effect in the medium term, as an ordinary citizen perceives is, although this timespan of fiscal impulse will mostly be beyond the projection horizon of medium term as understood in monetary policy. Our assessment indicate a moderately significant impact on growth and limited impact on inflation in the relevant timespan.

    Waking up and substantially increasing defence spending is welcome. Security is the bedrock of economic stability. Peace and security within European borders are fundamental to the European project and its economy.  Defence should be seen as a European public good. Further support for Ukraine should also be seen in the same light.

    But what does this mean for inflation? Historical comparisons to war-time money printing don’t apply here. Independent central banks like the ECB remain focused on keeping inflation expectations anchored.

    Still, we need to understand what type of shock defence spending represents. Is it demand or supply driven? Likely both, depending on how and where the money is spent.

    We also face the question of how to pay for it. EU-level spending would offer more stability and efficiency. That might mean higher membership fees, new revenue sources, or even treaty changes. Defence bonds – as safe assets – are one option, but only if backed by solid future income.

    Meanwhile, demands on public budgets are rising across the board: infrastructure, climate policy, aging populations.

    What guidance do we have so far from economics research?

    There is a large body of literature on fiscal multipliers, which incidentally often uses defence spending as a natural experiment or exogenous shock. These multipliers are frequently estimated to be below one, because public spending or investment usually crowds out private one.

    However, evidence suggests that multipliers tend to be larger in times of recession and economic slack. Moreover, some of the best evidence on the magnitude of fiscal multipliers is based on US data, where the multiplier may be smaller. This is simply because the US defence industry is very large compared to its European counterpart and is thus more likely to face diminishing marginal returns.

    All these issues mean that for European defence spending to be successful and sustainable, we must make every euro count. The additional defence spending should focus on investment in building up industrial network capacity and R&D, rather than simply procurement of defence equipment, which may be largely imported.

    Then there is also the aspect of defence efficiency. For this, we need sound planning and coordination at the European level, as well as a common market for defence, as stressed in last year’s Letta Report. Recent experience has shown that training in the use of unfamiliar weapons and problems with shortages of spare parts can become critical bottlenecks. Therefore, further harmonisation of technical standards and types of arms and equipment across European defence forces is key.

    With a history of independent and diminished national defence industries, the EU has some considerable catching up to do. We need to increase both national and EU-level defence spending, e.g. as Bruegel has suggested, by establishing a European Defence Mechanism formed by a coalition of the capable and willing. Such a fund would bypass the limitations to raising EU-level income, be resilient to any intra-EU obstruction and could also accommodate countries from outside the European Union, like the United Kingdom and Norway.

    In short: defence spending won’t necessarily be inflationary. But to be effective, it must be efficient. We need smart investments – in industrial capacity, innovation, and R&D – not just procurement. And we must avoid fragmented efforts. A European Defence Mechanism, built by a coalition of the capable and willing, could also help to pursue these goals.

    Innovation – defence and civilian

    Let’s now turn to innovation. Defence spending often yields big returns beyond the battlefield. Its effectiveness should be assessed from a long-term perspective, not only via short-run multipliers. Historically, it has given rise to technological breakthroughs that have not only found direct civilian applications but created whole new non-defence industries.

    Walkie-talkies were created during the Second World War at Motorola for infantry and artillery communication. Radar gave us microwave ovens. Military satellites gave us GPS and digital imaging. Jet engines, nuclear energy, the internet – all have military origins. Dual-use in action.

    Yes, these are cherry-picked examples. But they highlight that basic research often needs public support. The private sector tends to shy away from “unknown unknowns.”

    Modern defence is about technology, not just steel and troops. And there’s often more pressure to innovate efficiently. Look at Ukraine – it has rapidly developed drone tech, despite scarce resources.

    We know that Europe needs a productivity boost. For years, we depended on cheap energy from Russia, cheap goods from China and the security shield from the U.S. abroad. That stability was a mirage, if not a hallucination.

    To maintain our living standards and sovereignty, we must double down on innovation by investing on human capital and creating a conducive environment for research and researchers. Whether it’s AI, clean tech, green transition or digitalisation, we can’t afford to lag behind. Innovation is not optional; it’s vital for Europe’s future – a necessary condition for sustaining Europe’s quality of life and democratic values.

    Why not use the EU Horizon programme to create a scholarship and visa programme for returning and moving scientists to attract talent to Europe, where critical thinking and academic freedom in universities are encouraged and safeguarded?

    Dear friends,

    Let me conclude. Europe finds itself in a puzzling paradox, which would be funny if it were not purely pathetic. As Polish PM Donald Tusk put it starkly recently by quipping as follows: “500 million Europeans are asking 300 million Americans to protect them from 140 million Russians.”

    We need to put an end to that paradox. Europe must take responsibility for its own external security, in today’s harsh geopolitical world.

    This isn’t just about military strength. It’s about cohesion, economic resilience and long-term growth. We need to spark Europe’s industrial renewal, reinforce technological leadership, and enhance productivity.

    As history shows, Europe tends to move forward in times of crisis. In every crisis there is an opportunity – this time round we must use it particularly wisely to make Europe more resilient and capable of thriving again.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Potential financing of EU projects by USAID – E-000928/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission currently does not possess any information regarding the ‘63 George Soros-linked NGOs’ mentioned by the Honourable Member.

    As for any funding awarded to entities, reference is being made to the publicly accessible Financial Transparency System (FTS)[1] where information is available on beneficiaries of funding from the EU budget implemented directly by the Commission and other EU bodies such as executive agencies.

    The Commission received United States Agency for International Development (USAID) funding as a contribution through external assigned revenues for the following projects:

    — Under the European Development Fund, USD 7 million (EUR 6.52 million) in 2016-2017 for the project TZ/FED/2016/023-851, ‘EU Support programme to the South Agriculture Growth Corridor of Tanzania (SAGCOT) Initiative’;

    — Under the EU General Budget, USD 9.5 million (EUR 8.5 million) in 2016, for the project ENERGY/2014/37651, ‘GPGC — Delivering access to modern, affordable and sustainable energy/renewable energy to 6 million people’.

    In well-functioning democracies, transparent and accountable representation of interests is a fundamental and legitimate activity. Ensuring transparency about these activities and entities involved is essential for maintaining both EU citizens’ trust in the democratic process and decision-makers’ ability to exercise their responsibilities.

    In 2023, the Commission introduced the Defence of Democracy package[2] which includes a legislative proposal designed to improve transparency and democratic accountability of interest representation activities on behalf of third countries seeking to influence policies, decision making and the democratic space. This proposal is currently under discussion by the co-legislators.

    • [1] https://ec.europa.eu/budget/financial-transparency-system/index.html ; the annual publications are based on Article 38 of the Financial Regulation (OJ L 2024/2509, 26.9.2024, p. 1-239), and in accordance with the third paragraph of the article, information on recipients is not disclosed in specific cases outlined therein.
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A52023DC0630.
    Last updated: 3 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: DASA launches Phase 2 (Cycle 5) of fast paced Themed Competition

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    DASA launches Phase 2 (Cycle 5) of fast paced Themed Competition

    DASA launches Phase 2 (Cycle 5) of Innovation in Support of Operations – we’re seeking fast paced scalable proposals across five challenge areas

    • DASA has launched Phase 2 (Cycle 5) of Innovation in Support of Operations
    • Funded by the Ministry of Defence
    • Cycle 5 closes on 5 August 2025 at 12:00 Midday (BST)

    The Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) is pleased to launch Phase 2 (Cycle 5) of our fast paced Themed Competition Innovation in Support of Operations. Run on behalf of the Ministry of Defence, this competition is looking for innovative proposals that are cost competitive, designed for manufacture, and can be scaled in an approximate twelve-month timeframe.

    Competition key information

    Phase Two – expected to consist of three cycles:

      Cycle 4 Cycle 5 Cycle 6
    Competition Launch Closed 3 June 19 August
    Open For 7 Weeks 9 Weeks 8 Weeks
    Comp Closes 20 May 12:00 5 August 12:00 14 October 12:00

    All above time BST

    Background: Why we need innovation in this area

    The UK Government continuously evaluates insights from global events, to rapidly implement solutions that strengthen military and economic advantage.

    This competition aims to identify and accelerate innovative solutions and techniques, ensuring they can be scaled and deployed faster than our adversaries.

    If you think you have an innovation that could be deployed at pace, please read the full Competition Document and submit a proposal

    Competition challenges

    This competition has five challenge areas:

    1. UAS Propulsion

    In this challenge area we are looking for:

    • Novel means of propulsion for small to medium UAS.
    • Novel means of manufacture/design of traditional UAS engines for small to medium UAS to increase scale of manufacture at a market leading price.

    We are not looking for the UAS platforms themselves, but you will need to demonstrate your solution on a representative platform or in another appropriate form of demonstration.

    2. 155mm Artillery Barrel Repair/Recondition

    We are looking for innovative solutions to repair or recondition 155mm artillery barrels in order to extend barrel life under these conditions.

    3. Autonomous navigation systems

    In this challenge we are seeking autonomous navigation systems for air vehicles and/or maritime surface vessels.

    4. Seekers

    We are looking for novel systems directed against:

    1. RF transmitters at frequencies ranging from 200 MHz to 40 GHz
    2. Class I(d), Class II and Class III UAS
    3. Medium to large maritime surface targets.

    5.UAS defeat

    This challenge relates to the ability to:

    1. Detect UAS. We are seeking solutions to detect (and potentially defeat) UAS, including those that are not reliant on RF links.

    2. Destroy UAS.  We are looking for novel solutions to destroy UAVs around the Class 1(d) size, once detected.

    Proposals could address either Detect or Destroy or both.

    These challenges are designed to identify innovations that could be deployed, at an appropriate scale, in operational areas within 12 months.

    For full details of the competition Challenge Areas, please read the Competition Document

    Technology Readiness Levels (TRL)

    For this competition we are seeking technology output and demonstration to reach at least technology readiness level (TRL) 6 by the end of the project.

    If you think your innovation could meet one of the Challenges, why not read the full Competition Document and submit a proposal?

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MoS Defence Sanjay Seth announces expansion of NCC by 3 lakh cadets at Bhopal Conference

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Minister of State for Defence, Sanjay Seth, on Tuesday announced a major expansion of the National Cadet Corps (NCC), with plans to add three lakh new cadets across the country.

    The announcement came during the inauguration of a conference of Special Joint State Representatives and Additional/Deputy Directors General (JS R&A/D) of the NCC in Bhopal.

    Speaking at the event, Seth emphasized the NCC’s role in nation-building and youth development. “The NCC instills a spirit of nationalism and service. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has resolved to raise the number of cadets to between 17 and 20 lakh. With support from all states, we will soon achieve this target,” he said.

    According to a statement from the Ministry of Defence, several states have already expressed support for the initiative and have committed to fast-tracking the development of training infrastructure.

    Seth also highlighted new initiatives such as the recruitment of ex-servicemen as instructors, noting that it creates employment opportunities for military veterans.

    He lauded the NCC’s active participation in national missions such as the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Naya Savera scheme, and the Nasha Mukti Abhiyan. The minister also congratulated the NCC’s Mount Everest Expedition team, which successfully reached the summit on May 18, calling it “a powerful example of cadet courage and resilience.”

    Underscoring the importance of centre-state cooperation, Seth urged state governments to fulfill their commitments in terms of manpower, infrastructure, and funding to ensure the success of the NCC expansion plan.

    During the event, Director General of NCC, Lt Gen Gurbirpal Singh, outlined the organisation’s achievements and future plans. He stressed the need for robust training and camping infrastructure nationwide and emphasized efforts to boost youth participation and enhance cadet performance.

  • MIL-OSI Russia: New issue of the newspaper “For construction personnel”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering –

    Download the May issue

    A new issue of the SPbGASU newspaper “For Construction Personnel” has been published. In the latest issue, read:

    How to become a highly paid specialist in a year and a half

    SPbGASU graduate and practicing expert Veronika Zamaeva shared her personal experience. She gave advice that will be useful to all students regardless of their field of study.

    The initiative of a master’s student may reach the State Duma

    A graduate student at St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Alexandra Polyanskaya, talks about how she initiated changes to the federal law that will eliminate a legal gap in regulating the activities of zoos located on the territories of cultural heritage sites.

    Defense of a final qualifying work project as a real work process

    We tell you first-hand how defending a final qualification work in the format of TIM projects helps students acquire practical skills and build interactions with related specialists.

    Why is it beneficial to be a target?

    Students are guaranteed work, industries are in-demand personnel. We discuss all the positive effects of targeted training with the participants of this program.

    Construction is a great place to work

    We provide feedback from students who work, do practical training and internships at construction sites. The guys told us what is interesting about their work and why adaptation to production is easy and successful.

    New functionality for textile factories

    Olga Tsepilova, a lecturer at the Department of Urban Development at SPbGASU, suggested giving a second life to the objects, preserving their historical value but changing their functionality in accordance with modern regulatory requirements. Read more about the scientific justification in our article.

    Read the newspaper on the university website!

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The RAF Lands in Preston for Action-Packed Town Show

    Source: City of Preston

    The Royal Air Force is set to transform Avenham and Miller Park into a hub of excitement, innovation, and adventure during the RAF Preston Town Show, taking place 6 to 8 June from 9am to 5pm daily.

    This exciting three-day event promises to deliver a fun day out for families, young people, and aviation aficionados alike.

    Hosted in the heart of Preston, the RAF Town Show brings together interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and live entertainment to showcase the incredible work and opportunities within the Royal Air Force.

    Highlights of the event include:

    • Aircraft Experience: Step inside real RAF aircraft, take the pilot’s seat, and experience what it’s like to fly with the force.
    • RAF-Inspired Physical Challenges: Test your skills in agility, coordination, and endurance through fun, competitive activities.
    • Survival Challenges: Fast-paced, team-based challenges that put problem-solving and resilience to the test.
    • STEM and Youth Engagement Zones: Explore exciting career opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and maths with RAF experts.
    • Live Music and Performances: Enjoy fantastic performances from the RAF Band and special guest acts.
    • Career Insight Sessions: Chat with Royal Air Force Recruitment professionals about careers and the application process.

    Councillor Hindle, Cabinet Member for Culture and Arts atPreston City Council said:

    “This event is designed to inspire, educate, and entertain, Whether you’re considering a future in The Royal Air Force or simply looking for a great family day out, the Preston Town Show offers something for everyone.”

    Group Captain Gareth Taylor(Head of RAF Recruitment and Selection), said:

    “This is your chance to meet, see and touch the Royal Air Force. Experience the 60+ roles we have available within the Service but also explore the wider opportunities we have available such as sport, adventurous training and a wide array of other benefits. Whether you’re looking to apply or just want to see what the Royal Air Force is about, come and see us for what will be a brilliant day!”

    Entry to the event is free, but pre-booking is recommended via Eventbrite – RAF Preston Town Show.

    Find out more about the RAF Preston Town Show in Preston on Visit Preston – RAF Town Show.

    Further Information

    About Preston City Council

    Preston City Council actively applies and prioritises the principles of Community Wealth Building wherever applicable and appropriate. Community Wealth Building is an approach which aims to ensure the economic system builds wealth and prosperity for everyone.

    About The Royal Air Force

    For over a hundred years the Royal Air Force has defended the skies of Britain and projected Britain’s power and influence around the world. We work with our UK and international partners to watch the skies, respond to threats, prevent conflict, and provide assistance in an uncertain world.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: MoonFox Data Releases New Report: Instant Retail Becomes the Next Battleground as JD.com and Meituan Intensify Food Delivery Competition in China

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Shenzhen, June 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — [Shenzhen, China] – [June 3, 2025] – MoonFox Data, a leading provider of market intelligence and data analytics, today released its latest report, “Instant Retail Remains a Long-Term Battle, and the Food Delivery Battle Is Just the Beginning.” The report reveals how China’s instant retail sector is entering a new phase of fierce competition, with JD.com and Meituan at the forefront, leveraging food delivery as a critical driver of user growth and market expansion in 2025.

    In 2025, JD.com and Meituan engaged in several rounds of online “cross-platform jabs” over their food delivery services. Topics such as “Food Delivery Battle” and “Meituan Issues Another Statement” trended on social media. Amid the ensuing “war of words” and mounting public debate, both platforms’ ambitions in the “instant retail” space were laid bare.

    Tracing back their development, it is evident that JD.com and Meituan have been investing in instant retail for over a decade. As early as 2018, Meituan internally launched the “Flash Sale” brand focused on instant delivery of retail items. However, after 7 years and multiple rounds of fierce competition in community group purchase, “Meituan Flash Sale” was only officially launched as an independent brand in 2025. Meanwhile, from 2015 to 2023, JD.com steadily bolstered its capabilities in supply chain, digitalization, and logistics. By integrating diverse service segments, including JD Health, JD Car Care, and convenience supermarkets, the company established a robust localized service chain. In 2024, building on this integrated capacity, JD.com officially unveiled “JD Instant Delivery” as its flagship instant delivery service.

    Table 1: Development History of Instant Retail Business on Various Platforms

    JD.com Meituan
    2015: Launched “JD Home Delivery” service 2018: Internally launched “Meituan Flash Sale”
    2019: Launched “Meituan Vegetable Shopping”, rapidly expanding into first-tier cities and entering the community group purchase market
    2021: JD.com and DADA jointly launched “JD Hourly Purchase” 2020:

    In July, launched “Meituan Selected” to capture community e-commerce in lower-tier markets

    In September, began deploying “Meituan Flash Warehouse” in first-tier cities
    2022: JD became the controlling shareholder of DADA Group Upgraded “Meituan Vegetable Shopping” to “Xiaoxiang Supermarket” in December 2023, expanding supply from fresh produce to daily retail goods
    2024:

    Integrated “JD Hourly Delivery”, “JD Home Delivery”, etc., and launched “JD Instant Delivery” with a primary entrance on the JD homepage in May

    JD’s fresh food business “7FRESH” opened its first pre-warehouse in Beijing and commenced operations in September

    		 2024:

    Xiaoxiang Supermarket increased its proportion of self-operated products, benchmarking against Freshippo and Sam’s Club, featuring single-portion/small-quantity offerings for differentiation

    Meituan initiated a “Ten Thousand Warehouses for Thousand Cities” network layout; by October, the number of Flash Warehouses exceeded 30,000
    2025:

    Launched food delivery on the JD platform in February

    Rebranded “JD Vegetable Shopping” to “JD 7FRESH” in March, transitioning to a platform model to offer fresh food access from Sam’s Club, Pagoda, Dingdong Vegetable Shopping, and others

    JD launched “Self-operated Instant Delivery” e-commerce service in April; over 100,000 JD-branded offline stores have connected to Instant Delivery; Starbucks Delivery and HLA Group officially came on board

    		 Official launch of Meituan Flash Sale as an independent brand in April 2025

    Data Source: Public information, compiled by MoonFox Research Institute

    I. Instant Retail Shows Strong Potential, but Sustained Survival Remains Challenging

    To begin with, it’s essential to clarify the concepts of local life services and instant retail: Local life services refer to the use of online channels to display information about local brick-and-mortar businesses, with transactions completed offline services (through in-store visits or home). This model emphasizes “geographic relevance”. Instant retail, as a key component of local life services, involves delivering products from local retail models (such as supermarkets, warehouses, and storefronts) directly to consumers through same-city delivery. It covers a wide range of categories, including food & beverages, fresh produce, electronics, and pharmaceuticals. Services like hourly delivery, half-day delivery, community group purchase, and food delivery all fall within the scope of instant retail. Its high time sensitivity is the key factor distinguishing it from traditional e-commerce and parcel delivery.

    The local life services sector is constantly seeing the emergence of new entrants. However, most of these newcomers tend to focus on “in-store” business models rather than delivery-heavy services, as the latter demand robust and fast-changing delivery ecosystems that many find difficult to sustain.

    For example, Douyin launched “Beckoning Food Delivery” in 2021 and formed strategic partnerships with service providers like Ele.me, DADA, and SF Express. However, after lukewarm results, Douyin Life Services pivoted its local service strategy to focus on the business from group purchase to in-store visits. Kwai trialed food delivery through selected local life service merchants in 2023 but did not scale up, maintaining its focus on in-store deals of group purchase. DiDi attempted to launch food delivery twice in China but failed both times and has since shifted its food delivery ambitions to overseas markets in 2025. Community group purchase brands like Nice Tuan, Chengxin Selected and MissFresh shut down around 2023 due to operational difficulties…

    Despite these setbacks, instant retail still holds vast potential within China, especially in lower-tier markets.

    Industry statistics show that in 2024, China’s instant retail market reached approximately RMB 780 billion, accounting for only 6% of total online retail of physical goods. The market distribution between major cities and county-level areas is roughly 7:3. By 2030, the market is expected to surpass RMB 2 trillion.

    Table 2: Instant Retail Market Growth in China (2018 – 2030)

    Year Instant Retail Market Transaction Volume (RMB 100 million) Transaction Volume YoY Growth Share of Online Retail Transaction Volume of Physical Goods
    2018 690 88 % 1.0 %
    2019 1,180 71 % 1.4 %
    2020 2,150 82 % 2.3 %
    2021 2,350 9 % 2.2 %
    2022 5,040 114 % 4.5 %
    2023 6,500 29 % 5.3 %
    2024 7,800 20 % 6.0 %
    2025E 10,030 29 % 7.1 %
    2026E 11,750 17 % 7.7 %
    2023E 20,000 10.1 %

    Data Source: Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, National Bureau of Statistics, Reports from SDIC Securities, compiled by MoonFox Research Institute.

    II. Platforms Face Growth Anxiety and Urgently Need New Growth Curves

    For JD.com, local life services remain fertile ground with significant untapped potential. Among them, instant retail, characterized by high purchase frequency and rapid conversion, is undoubtedly a critical lever for driving business growth and attracting UV.

    Table 3: Comparison of Different Retail Models (In Terms of Profitability Efficiency: Instant Retail > Traditional E-commerce > Offline Retail)

    Type Instant Retail Traditional E-commerce In-store Visits of Group Purchase Offline Retail
    Consumer Behavior Place order online, with hourly delivery or flash delivery Place order online → shipped via express → received Order online, redeem in-store Browse and purchase in-store, offline payment
    B2B Requirements High-frequency demand; rich product supply is essential

    Low return rate

    Instant fulfillment

    		 High-frequency demand

    High return rate

    Long fulfillment cycle

    		 Pre-purchase vouchers

    Redemption rates fluctuate

    Unstable fulfillment window

    		 Low-frequency demand

    Low return rate

    Instant fulfillment

    Traditional e-commerce has passed its high-growth phase. In recent years, large-scale promotional events such as “618” and “D11” have lost their earlier traction, signaling consumer fatigue towards excessive discounting and promotional gimmicks. In response, e-commerce platforms such as Taobao, JD.com, and Vipshop have extended promotional periods and introduced “Billion-RMB Subsidy” to maintain total sales growth. However, Pinduoduo’s rapid rise and the increasing competitiveness of emerging e-commerce platforms like Douyin and Kwai have created new challenges. JD.com’s dominance, particularly in the electronics product category, is now under threat from multiple fronts.

    During Meituan’s Q3 2024 financial report audio conference, founder Wang Xing commented on industry trends, stating that instant retail will eventually account for over 10% of the total e-commerce market, and that Meituan Flash Sale’s growth has exceeded expectations. The 2024 financial report noted: “In 2024, ‘Meituan Flash Warehouses’ experienced significant growth, particularly in lower-tier markets, where they have become a key growth channel for many retailers. A number of major traditional retail companies have adopted ‘Meituan Flash Warehouse’ model… As our instant delivery business expands, we remain committed to building a sustainable ecosystem.”

    According to Meituan’s financial reports from 2022 to 2024, the platform’s gross profit margin has grown by over 30% YoY for three consecutive years, with its gross margin increasing from 28% to 38%. Core local services revenue maintained a YoY growth rate exceeding 20%, and new business income continued to accelerate. Although Meituan Flash Sale had not yet officially launched, it was repeatedly highlighted in annual financial reports over the past 5 years as a key growth engine for the platform.

    III. JD.com’s Surprise PR Offensive: Rapid Expansion into Meituan’s Core Territory

    In early April, JD.com CEO Xu Ran stated in an interview with 36Kr that the food delivery business could help JD.com increase both user base and purchase frequency, extending its service scenarios.

    On April 15, a leaked 7-minute internal meeting audio recording of Liu Qiangdong revealed his views on the domestic food delivery industry: Food delivery platform commissions can reach as high as 25% (sometimes over 30%), which he attributed to monopolistic practices that force small and medium-sized merchants to cut food quality, negatively impacting the consumer experience. He also proposed differentiated insurance policies for full-time and part-time couriers to better safeguard their rights.

    As early as 2022, Meituan’s financial report showed that its food delivery business had reached a peak of over 60 million orders per day. Although there is still a significant gap in order volume between the two platforms, JD Food Delivery achieved over 10 million in a single day on April 22, reflecting rapid growth.

    Comparing the daily new user growth for merchant and courier platforms since the start of 2025, JD Instant Delivery Merchant Edition and DADA Instant Delivery Courier Edition apps saw a UV surge. According to MoonFox Data, JD Instant Delivery Merchant Edition app peaked in daily new user numbers on April 24. Both platform initiatives and market responses clearly indicate that JD is making a bold incursion into Meituan’s food delivery “stronghold”.

    Table 4: New Daily User Growth on Merchant & Courier Platforms (2025)

    Average Daily New Users Meituan Food Delivery Merchant Edition App Meituan Courier Edition App Meituan Crowdsourcing DADA Instant Delivery Courier Edition App JD Instant Delivery Merchant Edition App
    January 13,236 18,069 18,624 12,345 2,671
    February 14,186 26,081 33,413 69,820 45,454
    March 16,606 23,781 34,178 47,042 50,499
    April 17,256 21,021 31,207 181,658 64,538

    Data Source: MoonFox iApp, Data Cycle: January 1, 2025 – April 27, 2025

    For users, switching between food delivery apps has low friction. With a clear intent to order, pricing and delivery time are often the only decisive factors. Last summer, Ele.me attracted UV via its “Answer to Win Free Meal” campaign, which relied on extremely low discounts and simple, engaging interactions. While Meituan launched “Meal Group Buying”, significantly lowering average order value to retain users through volume sales, though at the cost of some dining experience. In addition, Ele.me also tied its premium membership to Taobao’s 88VIP, leveraging high member stickiness from Taobao to boost Ele.me order frequency.

    For platforms, the fast migration of users and high usage frequency makes food delivery the best UV lever for JD.com to grow its instant retail business. But before that, onboarding a large number of restaurant merchants and recruiting a sufficient courier fleet are essential. Since launching JD Food Delivery on February 11, the platform has used a range of PR tactics to become a major industry topic, quickly moving beyond its cold start into a phase of explosive growth.

    • Late February: JD took the lead in advocating reform in the food delivery sector, focusing on courier welfare. This proactive stance gave JD the upper hand in the initial “war of words”. With value-driven messaging and concrete policy support, JD.com gained public recognition and courier endorsement.
    • In April, JD.com and Meituan entered a second round of confrontation. JD.com issued an open letter condemning Meituan’s various “misdeeds” and simultaneously rolled out new support policies and promotional benefits, once again pushing “JD Food Delivery” into the spotlight across the internet. The following day, “Liu Qiangdong Takes on Food Delivery” showcased JD’s strong commitment to developing its food delivery business. With a light-hearted and humorous public image, Liu won over netizens, who jokingly dubbed his delivery persona “GG Bond”. This, coupled with the platform’s swift marketing response, sparked a new wave of viral attention.

    During this second “war of words” wave, although Meituan responded swiftly with rebuttals, and some couriers questioned the accuracy of JD’s claims on social media, the incentives offered by JD helped counterbalance earlier criticism. However, overall, the various incentives released by the platform are helping to offset the negative public opinion caused by early-stage issues. JD has still managed to earn the trust of most merchants and couriers.

    Table 5: Platform-level New User Scale Growth

    Average Daily New Users Meituan App JD App
    January 2,031,496 862,633
    February 1,168,203 807,748
    March 1,265,657 889,403
    April 1,331,168 1,484,954

    Data Source: MoonFox iApp, Data Cycle: January 1, 2025 – April 27, 2025

    Table 6: Key Events in the 2025 “Food Delivery Battle”

    Key Date JD.com Actions Meituan Responses
    February 24 JD Food Delivery announced “Three Key Policies”: no commission all year, full social insurance for full-time couriers, and mandatory dine-in capability for merchants Meituan launched the “City Defense Plan”, lowering core merchant commissions from 23% to 6% – 8%.
    April 14 JD launched “Self-operated Instant Delivery” Meituan Flash Sale launched.
    April 21 JD issued an open letter: accusing Meituan of forcing couriers to choose one platform and announced plans to recruit 100,000 full-time couriers and offer a “late delivery, free meal” policy. Meituan denied the accusations and ramped up subsidies.
    April 22 JD Food Delivery surpassed 10 million daily orders; “Liu Qiangdong Takes on Food Delivery” trended online.

    IV. The “Food Delivery Battle” Ushers in a New Era of Instant Retail Competition

    In April, amid the intense “Food Delivery Battle” between JD.com and Meituan, both Meituan “Flash Sale” and JD’s “Self-operated Instant Delivery” services were launched simultaneously.

    Just ahead of the Labor Day holiday, “Taobao Flash Sale” went live in 50 cities, followed by a nationwide rollout on May 2. To drive up order frequency during the holiday, Taobao partnered with Ele.me to issue substantial consumer subsidies such as free-order card and treat-voucher card.

    According to MoonFox Data, since April 2025, JD.com’s daily new user volume has continuously increased, and has surpassed Meituan’s since April 16. Since the launch of its food delivery service, JD.com has also seen a steady rise in average user online time. As of April 23, average daily online time reached 14.27 minutes per user, increased by 54% compared with the same period last year.

    Table 7: Changes in JD.com’s Active User Online Time

    Month Average Usage Time (mins/month)

    MoM Changes
    2024-4 276.31 -4.3 %
    2024-5 300.10 8.6 %
    2024-6 310.27 3.4 %
    2024-7 292.11 -5.9 %
    2024-8 291.60 -0.2 %
    2024-9 309.98 6.3 %
    2024-10 337.85 9.0 %
    2024-11 332.55 -1.6 %
    2024-12 319.87 -3.8 %
    2025-1 329.24 2.9 %
    2025-2 310.20 -5.8 %
    2025-3 343.47 10.7 %
    2025-4 384.93 12.1 %

    Data Source: MoonFox iApp, Data Cycle: April 28, 2024 – April 23, 2025

    Despite reports of issues such as “inefficient processes” and “system bugs” with JD Food Delivery, there are still many shortcomings in the courier operation procedures that need to be addressed. However, driven by benefits related to commission rates and employee protection, a large number of couriers are switching platforms, while food delivery merchants and offline stores are also accelerating their entry into “JD Instant Delivery”. With intensified investment in business development models, infrastructure construction, and supporting policies, both JD and Meituan are stepping up efforts to seize market share.

    Table 8: Platform Characteristics Comparison

    Infrastructure JD Instant Delivery Meituan Flash Sale
    Warehouse Mode Centralized Warehouses (self-operated) + Branded Stores (as front warehouses) Flash Warehouse + Offline Retail Stores
    Delivery Service DADA Instant Delivery(contracted couriers) + JD Logistics Third-party Service Provider Contracted Couriers
    Introduction Stage

    Policy Advantages

    		 0% commission for select premium merchants

    “Billion-RMB Subsidy” campaign for JD Food Delivery users

    Job & insurance support for couriers

    		 0% commission for Flash Warehouse franchising (initial investment > RMB 300K)

    Exclusive UV privilege, “Climbing Plan” course and customized support for new merchants
    Digital Platform JD Instant Delivery Open Platform Meituan Morning Glory System
    Coverage Area As of May 2024, JD Instant Delivery has covered 2,300 counties/cities, with 500K+ partner stores As of October 2024, Meituan has had over 30K flash warehouses
    UV Entrance JD App (homepage + search bar) Meituan Homepage + Meituan Food Delivery

    Data Source: Public information, compiled by MoonFox Research Institute

    Meituan’s instant retail business is an extension of its food delivery capabilities, relying on third-party franchises and offline retail store partnerships for warehousing, and service-provider-based courier models. This asset-light strategy plays to Meituan’s platform operation strengths, enabling rapid territorial expansion across cities.

    JD’s instant retail business places greater emphasis on its “self-operated” model, leveraging its early investments in e-commerce warehousing as a key foundation. It expands operations based on regional fulfillment centers while strengthening partnerships with offline stores, particularly branded chain stores, to enhance delivery efficiency and ensure product quality, a strategy that aligns with users’ existing perception of JD’s authenticity and logistics capabilities in e-commerce. The supply of local couriers primarily relies on contracted riders from DADA Instant Delivery. In recent years, JD Group’s increasing equity stake in DADA has further strengthened its influence over last-mile delivery in the instant retail sector.

    The attention generated by the “Food Delivery Battle” and the boom of instant retail has created invisible pressure for traditional e-commerce giants like Taobao. Taobao, backed by Alibaba’s vast ecosystem, including Tmall Supermarket, Amap, Ele.me, Freshippo, and Alipay, has promising opportunities in the local life service sector. However, the coordination between different business units and the logistics efficiency within the last 3 to 5 kilometers remain key challenges that the platform must overcome to scale its instant retail business.

    At present, Taobao Flash Sale appears to be a combination of Ele.me’s original food delivery services and Taobao’s previous “hourly delivery” feature, swiftly entering the competition to drive UV and user engagement. During the Labor Day holiday, topics such as #Taobao Flash Sale Crashed# even trended on social media platforms.

    For Meituan, instant retail represents a new growth engine; For JD.com, it is a strategic lever to drive growth across its entire e-commerce ecosystem. Compared with the overt and covert competition between the two giants, the rapid launch of Taobao Flash Sale is more of a defensive move. Its long-term prospects remain to be seen. For now, all major platforms are still focused on strengthening infrastructure and optimizing operational efficiency, with instant retail shaping up to be a long-term battle.

    About MoonFox Data

    As a sub-brand of Aurora Mobile, MoonFox Data is a leading expert in data insights and analysis services across all scenarios. With a comprehensive, stable, secure and compliant mobile big data foundation, as well as professional and precise data analysis technology and AI algorithms, MoonFox Data has launched iAPP, iBrand, iMarketing, Alternative Data and professional research and consulting services of MoonFox Research, aiming to help companies gain insights into market growth and make accurate business decisions.

    About Aurora Mobile

    Aurora Mobile (NASDAQ: JG) established in 2011, is a leading customer engagement and marketing technology service provider in China. Its business includes notification services, marketing growth, development tools, and data products.

    For Media Inquiries:

    Contact: zhouxt@jiguang.cn | Website: http://www.moonfox.cn/en

    The MIL Network –

  • After month-long exposition in Vietnam, holy Buddha relics return to India

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The holy relics of Lord Buddha returned to India on Tuesday after a month-long exposition tour across Vietnam.

    The relics were ceremoniously received at Palam Air Force Station in New Delhi. The delegation accompanying the relics was led by Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati , along with representation from the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) led by Shartse Khensur Jangchup Choeden Rinpoche, Secretary General, and National Museum officials.

    “The holy relics will be publicly displayed at the National Museum, Delhi, for a day, allowing devotees and dignitaries to offer their respects. A formal prayer meeting with senior monks, IBC officials, and diplomats will follow,” the IBC said in a post on X.

    “On June 4, the relics will travel in a Presidential cavalcade to Sarnath via Varanasi, where they will be ceremonially enshrined at Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, marking the grand conclusion of this historic international pilgrimage,” it added.

    The sacred tour in Vietnam, spanning multiple locations from the south to the north, drew more than 17.8 million devotees in total.

    External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar had called the exhibition of these relics in Vietnam an “expression of close and friendly ties over centuries.”

    The ceremonies included relic processions, meditative gatherings, chanting, and educational sessions, fostering spiritual mindfulness among attendees of all ages.

    The holy relics arrived in Vietnam from India on May 2 with an Indian delegation led by Union Minister of Parliamentary and Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju, which also included Andhra Pradesh Minister Kandula Durgesh, senior monks and officials.

    The relics were supposed to remain in Vietnam until May 21 as part of the UN Day of Vesak celebrations.

    However, India extended the enshrinement of sacred relics in Vietnam beyond May 21, on the recommendation of the Committee for Ethnic and Religious Affairs after a formal request from Vietnamese government, said the local media.

    The relics were displayed at Thanh Tam Pagoda in Ho Chi Minh City, then in Ba Den Mountain in Tay Ninh province, Quan Su Pagoda in Hanoi, Tam Chuc Pagoda in Ha Nam, Bai Dinh Pagoda in Ninh Binh province, Phuc Son Pagoda, Bac Giang Province, Truc Lam Yen Tu Monastery in Quang Ninh, Chuong Pagoda in Hung Yen and Quan Am Ngu Hanh Son Pagoda in Da Nang City of Vietnam.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • PM Modi assures full central support to flood-hit northeast states

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday spoke with the Chief Ministers of Assam and Sikkim and Manipur Governor Ajay Bhalla to assess the flood situation in the northeastern region. He assured them of all possible support from the Centre to aid relief and rehabilitation efforts.
     
    Heavy rainfall over the past several days has led to severe flooding across northeastern states including Assam, Sikkim, Manipur, Tripura, and Arunachal Pradesh. The situation has disrupted daily life, submerged vast stretches of land, and severed crucial supply links to remote areas.
     
    The Prime Minister expressed concern over the rising water levels in major rivers such as the Brahmaputra, Pachnoi, and Kushiyara, which are flowing above danger marks in several locations. Thousands have been displaced, with many forced to evacuate from low-lying areas.
     
    Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said in a post on X that the Prime Minister had called him to inquire about the situation. “I briefed the Prime Minister on how continuous rainfall in Assam and adjoining states has led to flooding and impacted many lives. I also apprised him of the relief operation undertaken by the state government,” he posted. Sarma added that PM Modi assured full support from the Centre and offered guidance in tackling the crisis.
     
    Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang also expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for reaching out during the ongoing crisis. He stated that the state administration remains committed to managing the landslide and flood emergency and providing all necessary aid to those affected.
     
    In Manipur, the situation remains grim, particularly in the Imphal Valley. The Indian Army and Assam Rifles are leading extensive rescue operations under “Operation Jalrahat-II.” Over the past three days, more than 1,000 people have been rescued from flood-hit areas in Imphal East and West districts.
     
    According to a bulletin issued by the Manipur administration, over 56,000 people across 174 villages remain affected. Relief efforts include the distribution of 1,500 food packets and 4,000 bottles of clean drinking water. A dedicated medical camp was also set up on June 2 at Wangkhei Angom Leikai Rehabilitation Camp, where over 250 displaced individuals received medical aid.
     
    Medical teams provided treatment for injuries, dehydration, infections, and chronic conditions, with special focus on children, the elderly, and vulnerable patients. Awareness sessions on hygiene and disease prevention were also conducted to help reduce the risk of secondary health issues.
     
    (inputs from agencies )

  • Shashi Tharoor-led delegation meets Brazil’s Acting Foreign Minister, discusses enhancing anti-terror cooperation

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    An all-party Indian Parliamentary delegation led by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor held a meeting with Brazil’s Acting Foreign Minister Maria Laura da Rocha on Monday and discussed strengthening bilateral collaboration on anti-terrorism, multilateralism, and democratic values.

    The Indian Embassy in Brazil said in a statement, “A high-level All-Party Delegation led by MP Shashi Tharoor met Acting Foreign Minister of Brazil, Ambassador Maria Laura da Rocha. They thanked Brazil for its understanding against terrorism, shared views on the Pahalgam attack, and discussed strengthening cooperation on anti-terrorist cooperation, multilateralism, and democratic values.”

    Earlier, the delegation met Brazilian Senator Nelson Trad Filho, President of the India-Brazil Friendship Front in the Federal Senate, and conveyed India’s bipartisan resolve, while thanking Brazil for its support in the global fight against terror.

    The delegation also briefed Ambassador Celso Amorim, Head Adviser to the President of Brazil, on India’s resolute response to the recent terror attack in Pahalgam and discussed the need for strengthened global cooperation against terrorism, alongside shared commitments to peace, security, and democratic values.

    In a post on X on Monday, Tharoor said: “Our day in Brasilia begins with a visit to the Presidential Palace, where we meet with my old friend the Diplomatic Advisor to the President, Ambassador Celso Amorim (Brazil’s longest-serving Foreign Minister twice & Defence Minister once). A full & rewarding discussion followed.”

    After successful visits to Guyana, Panama, Colombia, the nine-member Indian delegation arrived in Brazil on Sunday evening (local time).

    The delegation includes Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) MP Shambhavi Choudhary, Jharkhand Mukti Morcha MP Sarfaraz Ahmad, Telugu Desam Party MP GM Harish Balayogi, Bharatiya Janata Party MPs — Shashank Mani Tripathi, Bhubaneswar Kalita, Tejasvi Surya, Shiv Sena MP Milind Deora and Ambassador Taranjit Singh Sandhu.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • MIL-Evening Report: PNG’s Namah calls for tighter bio controls, patrols on Indonesian border

    By Scholar Kassas in Port Moresby

    A Papua New Guinea minister has raised concerns about “serious issues” at the PNG-Indonesia border due to a lack of proper security checkpoints.

    Culture and Tourism Minister Belden Namah, who is also the member for the border electorate Vanimo-Green, voiced these concerns while supporting a new Biosecurity for Plants and Animals Bill presented in Parliament by Agriculture Minister John Boito.

    He said Papua New Guinea was the only country in the Pacific Islands region that shared a land border with another nation.

    According to Namah, the absence of proper quarantine and National Agriculture Quarantine and Inspection Authority (NAQIA) checks at the border allowed people bringing food and plants from Indonesia to introduce diseases affecting PNG’s commodities.

    Minister Namah, whose electorate shares a border with Indonesia, noted that while the PNG Defence Force and police were present, they were primarily focused on checking vehicles coming from Indonesia instead of actively patrolling the borders.

    He clarified the roles, saying, “It’s NAQIA’s job to search vehicles and passengers, and the PNGDF’s role is to guard and patrol our borders.”

    Namah expressed concern that while bills were passed, enforcement on the ground was lacking.

    Minister Namah supported the PNG Biosecurity Authority Bill and called for consistency, increased border security, and stricter control checks.

    Republished from the PNG Post-Courier with permission.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Smucker to Recognize Cold War Era Veterans

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Lloyd Smucker (PA-16)

    LANCASTER, PA – Rep. Lloyd Smucker (PA-11) announced that his office will be hosting a Cold War Veterans Recognition Ceremony later this year and invites eligible area veterans to submit applications to receive the Cold War Recognition Certificate, a program administered by the Department of Defense.  

    “I’m proud to invite our community to help recognize the heroes of the Cold War era. These individuals defended our nation in one of the most pivotal eras in our history. If you or a loved one served during this critical time in our history, I encourage you to apply and ensure their service is honored,” said Rep. Lloyd Smucker (PA-11). 

    Cold War veterans—those who served in the U.S. armed forces from the victory over Japan in 1945 to the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991—make up 36.5% of veterans in the United States. They will be honored with an official Cold War Recognition Certificate presented at a ceremony later this year. Additional event details will be shared directly with recipients. 

    The Cold War Recognition Certificate Program, operated by the Department of Defense, is available to all members of the armed forces and qualified federal government civilian personnel who honorably served the United States between September 2, 1945, to December 26, 1991.

    Qualifying veterans from Pennsylvania’s Congressional 11th District are invited to apply and be honored at this event. For the application and further information, please visit Congressman Smucker’s website. 

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Davids Stands with Kansans to Oppose Devastating GOP Cuts to Medicaid, Food Assistance

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sharice Davids (KS-3)

    Today, Representative Sharice Davids hosted a virtual press conference to call out the devastating impact of House Republicans’ budget — particularly its deep cuts to Medicaid. The partisan budget, backed by President Trump, would also slash emergency food assistance and programs hardworking Kansans rely on every day to pay for more than $1 trillion in tax giveaways for billionaires and large corporations.

    “We should be focused on cutting waste and making life more affordable for Kansans,” said Davids. “Instead, this partisan budget does the exact opposite — rips away health care and food assistance from the people who need it most. Kansans deserve policies that invest in the middle class, not ones that line the pockets of billionaires at their expense. That’s why I’m fighting to protect Medicaid, preserve critical programs, and stand up for hardworking families across our state.”

    WATCH: Davids hosts press conference with Kansans affected by Republicans’ proposed Medicaid cuts

    At today’s press conference, Davids was joined by Kansans directly impacted by proposed Medicaid cuts in the Republican budget. Mark and Patty Hink spoke about their son Brian, who relies on Medicaid for critical services and medications provided at a disability services provider in Overland Park. Samantha Denzin Armistead shared how her brother Connor, an adult with intellectual disabilities, depends on KanCare’s Home and Community Based Services to attend day programs that give him purpose and stability. Corey Craig, CEO of Monarch Hospice & Palliative Care, provided insight into how these cuts would harm health care providers and seniors across the state.

    President Trump and U.S. House Republicans are pushing a budget that would make the largest cuts to Medicaid and emergency food assistance in American history — all to fund more than $1 trillion in tax giveaways for billionaires. These extreme cuts would force Kansans to pay more to put food on the table and stay healthy.

    • Cuts to Health Care: The Joint Economic Committee estimates that more than 16,000 people in Kansas’ Third District would lose health care coverage under this bill — including 13,000 through the Affordable Care Act and another 3,000 through Medicaid. These cuts would lead to more hospital closures, reduced services, and worse care for all Kansas families, especially in rural communities, where more than half of hospitals are already at risk of shutting down.
    • Cuts to Food Access: In Kansas’ Third District alone, 8,000 households could lose access to the emergency food assistance they rely on through this bill. Also, up to 27,000 grocery stores nationwide may be forced to close due to lost revenue, worsening food deserts, especially in rural communities. These cuts would reduce farm income by more than $30 billion and threaten good-paying jobs.

    To fight back against this reckless and harmful budget that will raise costs, Davids introduced a series of amendments early this morning. Her goal is to protect Kansas families and bring common sense and stability back to our economy and government. Davids’ original amendments include:

    • Health Care
    • Agriculture
      • Animal Disease Protection: Stops job cuts at the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF) in Manhattan, which protects farmers and food from dangerous animal diseases.
      • Tariff Study: Requires the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to study how U.S. tariffs hurt farmers, from higher supply costs to lost market access.
    • Research
      • Medical Research Funding: Unfreezes all National Institutes of Health (NIH) research money and protects existing medical research contracts, including at the University of Kansas Cancer Center.
      • Science Grants: Makes the National Science Foundation (NSF) keep its promises and funding for science projects already approved and signed, including at public universities in Kansas.
    • Jobs
      • Manufacturing Partnerships: Ensures Kansas Manufacturing Solutions and similar groups keep getting federal support each year.
      • Energy Assistance Program: Saves jobs and funding for the team that runs Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which helps families pay heating and cooling bills.
      • Advanced Manufacturing Tax Credit: Protects the 45X tax credit that domestic manufacturers use to help build clean energy technology and create good-paying jobs.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Davids Announces 13 Local Students Receive U.S. Service Academy Appointments

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sharice Davids (KS-3)

    OVERLAND PARK, KS – Today, Representative Sharice Davids announced that 13 students from the Kansas Third District have successfully received their appointments to a U.S. Service Academy. In a send-off event in Overland Park this week, Davids presented students with a certificate acknowledging their incredible achievement.

    “As the daughter of an Army veteran, I know the strength and sacrifice it takes to serve,” said Davids. “It’s an incredible honor to nominate these hardworking young Kansans to our nation’s Service Academies. Their dedication and drive represent the best of our community, and I have no doubt they’ll make us proud as the next generation of military leaders.”

    Davids nominated 29 students for an appointment based on the recommendations of her Academy Panelist Board. The panelists conducted personal interviews with each applicant, in addition to reviewing written applications, letters of recommendation, and G.P.A. This year’s nonpartisan board included: 

    • Mike Souder, Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army (Retired)
    • Steve Wallace, Lieutenant Colonel, Infantry, U.S. Army (Retired)

    After receiving a nomination from Davids, these 13 applicants successfully met the individual admission requirements for their respective academies, which made the final decision on an appointment of admission. They include:

    United States Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, CO

    • Laura Hickman – Mill Valley High School
    • Hank Newton – Southern Coffey County High School
    • Caleb Ochs – Saint James Academy

    United States Air Force Academy Preparatory School at Colorado Springs, CO

    • James Dykes – De Soto High School
    • Zurich Balda – Blue Valley North High School
    • Connor Deady – Rockhurst High School
    • Max Doerfler – Saint Thomas Aquinas High School
    • Josh Little – Olathe East High School
    • Sophia Marien-Brovont – St. Teresa’s Academy

    United States Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, NY

    • Zurich Balda – Blue Valley North High School

    United States Military Academy at West Point, NY

    • Connor Deady – Rockhurst High School
    • Max Doerfler – Saint Thomas Aquinas High School
    • Josh Little – Olathe East High School
    • Sophia Marien-Brovont – St. Teresa’s Academy

    United States Naval Academy at Annapolis, MD

    • Addison Holle – Gardner-Edgerton High School
    • Calum Lynn – Olathe West High School
    • Presley Yows – Louisburg High School 

    United States Naval Academy Preparatory School at Newport, RI

    • Kaden Allen – Saint Thomas Aquinas High School

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • Harvard seeks end to US funding cuts, says national security, public health research in peril

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Harvard University asked a federal judge on Monday to issue a summary judgment ruling to unfreeze $2.5 billion in funding blocked by President Donald Trump’s administration, which Harvard said was illegal.

    Harvard’s filing in the U.S. District Court in Boston said that it had received 957 orders since April 14 to freeze funding for research pertaining to national security threats, cancer and infectious diseases and more since the country’s oldest and wealthiest school rejected a White House list of demands.

    Trump has said he is trying to force change at Harvard – and other top-level universities across the U.S. – because in his view they have been captured by leftist “woke” thought and become bastions of antisemitism.

    The Trump administration did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

    U.S. District Judge Allison Burroughs has set arguments for July 21 on Harvard’s motion for summary judgment, which is a request for a judge to decide a dispute without a trial to determine material facts.

    Harvard sued the Trump administration in April, alleging the funding freeze violated the school’s right to free speech and was arbitrary and capricious.

    In Monday’s court filing, Harvard detailed the terminated grants, including $88 million for research into pediatric HIV, $12 million for increasing Defense Department awareness of emerging biological threats and $8 million to better understand dark energy. The school said ending the funding would destroy ongoing research into cancer treatments, infectious disease and Parkinson’s.

    The Trump administration has opened numerous investigations into Harvard. Some are looking at threats against Jewish students and faculty after pro-Palestinian protests broke out following the Oct. 7, 2023 Hamas attack on Israel and subsequent Israeli military actions in Gaza.

    Other investigations are probing whether Harvard discriminates based on sex and gender, along with the school’s ties to foreign governments and international students.

    The Trump administration revoked Harvard’s ability to enroll international students last month, which a judge temporarily blocked after Harvard sued in a separate case.

    Harvard and other universities say Trump’s attacks are threats to freedom of speech and freedom of academics, as well as threats to the schools’ very existence.

    (Reuters) 

  • Russia sets out punitive terms at peace talks with Ukraine

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Russia told Ukraine at peace talks on Monday that it would only agree to end the war if Kyiv gives up big new chunks of territory and accepts limits on the size of its army, according to a memorandum reported by Russian media.

    The terms, formally presented at negotiations in Istanbul, highlighted Moscow’s refusal to compromise on its longstanding war goals despite calls by U.S. President Donald Trump to end the “bloodbath” in Ukraine.

    Ukraine has repeatedly rejected the Russian conditions as tantamount to surrender.

    Delegations from the warring sides met for barely an hour, for only the second such round of negotiations since March 2022. They agreed to exchange more prisoners of war – focusing on the youngest and most severely wounded – and return the bodies of 12,000 dead soldiers.

    Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan described it as a great meeting and said he hoped to bring together Russia’s Vladimir Putin and Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskiy for a meeting in Turkey with Trump.

    But there was no breakthrough on a proposed ceasefire that Ukraine, its European allies and Washington have all urged Russia to accept.

    Moscow says it seeks a long-term settlement, not a pause in the war; Kyiv says Putin is not interested in peace. Trump has said the United States is ready to walk away from its mediation efforts unless the two sides demonstrate progress towards a deal.

    Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov, who headed Kyiv’s delegation, said Kyiv – which has drawn up its own peace roadmap – would review the Russian document, on which he offered no immediate comment.

    Ukraine has proposed holding more talks before the end of June, but believes only a meeting between Zelenskiy and Putin can resolve the many issues of contention, Umerov said.

    Zelenskiy said Ukraine presented a list of 400 children it says have been abducted to Russia, but that the Russian delegation agreed to work on returning only 10 of them. Russia says the children were moved from war zones to protect them.

    RUSSIAN DEMANDS

    The Russian memorandum, which was published by the Interfax news agency, said a settlement of the war would require international recognition of Crimea – a peninsula annexed by Russia in 2014 – and four other regions of Ukraine that Moscow has claimed as its own territory. Ukraine would have to withdraw its forces from all of them.

    It restated Moscow’s demands that Ukraine become a neutral country – ruling out membership of NATO – and that it protect the rights of Russian speakers, make Russian an official language and enact a legal ban on glorification of Nazism. Ukraine rejects the Nazi charge as absurd and denies discriminating against Russian speakers.

    Russia also formalised its terms for any ceasefire en route to a peace settlement, presenting two options that both appeared to be non-starters for Ukraine.

    Option one, according to the text, was for Ukraine to start a full military withdrawal from the Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions. Of those, Russia fully controls the first but holds only about 70% of the rest.

    Option two was a package that would require Ukraine to cease military redeployments and accept a halt to foreign provision of military aid, satellite communications and intelligence. Kyiv would also have to lift martial law and hold presidential and parliamentary elections within 100 days.

    Russian delegation head Vladimir Medinsky said Moscow had also suggested a “specific ceasefire of two to three days in certain sections of the front” so that the bodies of dead soldiers could be collected.

    According to a proposed roadmap drawn up by Ukraine, a copy of which was seen by Reuters, Kyiv wants no restrictions on its military strength after any peace deal, no international recognition of Russian sovereignty over parts of Ukraine taken by Moscow’s forces, and reparations.

    UKRAINE TARGETS RUSSIAN BOMBER FLEET

    The conflict has been heating up, with Russia launching its biggest drone attacks of the war and advancing on the battlefield in May at its fastest rate in six months.

    On Sunday, Ukraine said it launched 117 drones in an operation codenamed “Spider’s Web” to attack Russian nuclear-capable long-range bomber planes at airfields in Siberia and the far north of the country.

    Satellite imagery suggested the attacks had caused substantial damage, although the two sides gave conflicting accounts of the extent of it.

    Western military analysts described the strikes, thousands of miles from the front lines, as one of the most audacious Ukrainian operations of the war.

    Russia’s strategic bomber fleet forms part of the “triad” of forces – along with missiles launched from the ground or from submarines – that make up the country’s nuclear arsenal, the biggest in the world. Faced with repeated warnings from Putin of Russia’s nuclear might, the U.S. and its allies have been wary throughout the Ukraine conflict of the risk that it could spiral into World War Three.

    A current U.S. administration official said Trump and the White House were not notified before the attack. A former administration official said Ukraine, for operational security reasons, regularly does not disclose to Washington its plans for such actions.

    A UK government official said the British government also was not told ahead of time.

    Zelenskiy said the operation, which involved drones concealed inside wooden sheds, had helped to restore partners’ confidence that Ukraine is able to continue waging the war.

    “Ukraine says that we are not going to surrender and are not going to give in to any ultimatums,” he told an online news briefing.

    “But we do not want to fight, we do not want to demonstrate our strength – we demonstrate it because the enemy does not want to stop.”

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Video: What’s YOUR Purpose? #USArmy #Army

    Source: US Army (video statements)

    About the U.S. Army: The Army Mission – our purpose – remains constant: To deploy, fight and win our nation’s wars by providing ready, prompt & sustained land dominance by Army forces across the full spectrum of conflict as part of the joint force. Interested in joining the U.S. Army? Visit:
    spr.ly/6001igl5L
    Connect with the U.S. Army online: Web:
    https://www.army.mil
    Facebook:
    https://www.facebook.com/USarmy/
    X:

    Instagram:
    https://www.instagram.com/usarmy/
    LinkedIn:
    https://www.linkedin.com/company/us-army
    #Soldiers #Military #Shorts #Army

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3XFSLE6tDYA

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI China: Beijing conference commemorates U.S. journalist whose 1937 book introduced Chinese communists to the West

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

    Beijing conference commemorates U.S. journalist whose 1937 book introduced Chinese communists to the West

    A commemorative conference on the 120th anniversary of U.S. journalist Edgar Snow’s birth was held on Friday at Peking University in Beijing.

    The commemorative conference on the 120th anniversary of Edgar Snow’s Birth and the academic symposium on establishing a more effective international communication system is held in Beijing, capital of China, May 30, 2025. (Xinhua/Chen Yehua)

    Snow was born in 1905 to an ordinary farming family in Missouri. In 1936, at a time when China was embroiled in internal conflict and faced external aggression, Snow made his way to the remote headquarters of the Communist Party of China (CPC) in northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, where he conducted extensive interviews with top Party leaders, including late Chinese leader Mao Zedong.

    Snow’s firsthand reporting culminated in “Red Star Over China,” which was published a year later and provided not only the West but also China with a rare and authentic account of the Red Army, its leadership and its steadfast commitment to improving the lives of the Chinese people.

    After the founding of the People’s Republic of China, Snow visited the country three times and was warmly received by its top leaders. He remained concerned about China following his visits, firmly supported the just cause of the Chinese people, and actively promoted friendly relations between China and the United States.

    Speaking at the conference’s opening ceremony, Fu Hua, president of Xinhua News Agency, said that Snow was a sincere friend of the Chinese people, an envoy for China-U.S. relations, and a revered journalist.

    “Through his cross-border, cross-cultural journalistic practice, Snow provided the world on both sides of the Pacific with an accurate, multi-dimensional and panoramic view of China,” Fu said.

    “The values contained in Snow’s work — honesty, curiosity, courage in the face of political pressure — are ones that must be reaffirmed, renewed, even amplified to truly honor his memory,” said Samuel Colin Maclean, a relative of Snow and a representative of the Fairbank Center for Chinese Studies at Harvard University.

    “Snow believed communication — unsentimental, unfiltered — was the only way to bridge the gap between the two countries and to prevent unnecessary conflict,” Maclean noted.

    As this year marks the 80th anniversary of victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, Sun Hua, director of Peking University’s China Center for Edgar Snow Studies (CCESS), noted that “Red Star Over China” played a crucial role in introducing the CPC’s idea of forming a united front against Japanese aggression.

    Sun explained that as a result of Snow’s work, U.S. groups, including military observers, traveled to northern Shaanxi to support China’s anti-fascist efforts. “The book not only helped unite the Chinese people but also played a significant role in rallying international support, including support from the United States and Britain.”

    “Let us carry forward Snow’s spirit, bridging not only geographical distance but also divides in ideologies and worldviews, while promoting cultural exchange and mutual learning between nations and regions,” Fu said.

    Co-organized by Peking University and the Xinhua Institute, the event was attended by Snow’s relatives and close friends, as well as seasoned journalists and specialists on Edgar Snow studies and international communication.

    During the event, guests explored how China can focus on building a more effective international communication system, centering on topics such as “Presenting the real China to the World” and “Talent development & the legacy of Edgar Snow’s spirit.”

    MIL OSI China News –