Source: United States Navy
NORFOLK, Va. — Nearly 4,500 Sailors assigned to the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group departed Naval Station Norfolk and Naval Weapons Station Yorktown, June 24, for a regularly-scheduled deployment to the U.S. European Command (EUCOM) area of responsibility.
Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements
The Foreign Secretary made a statement to the House of Commons, updating members on the government’s approach to China following the cross-Whitehall audit.
With permission, Madam Deputy Speaker, I will make a statement on the China audit.
China’s rise has shaped the geopolitical landscape. Over the past decade, their military expenditure doubled. Their armed forces became the world’s largest. They established dominance over most critical mineral supply chains. They pursued relentless innovation in electric vehicles, AI and even space travel.
And over this same period, China has delivered a third of global economic growth, becoming the world’s second largest economy. And, together with Hong Kong, the UK’s third largest trading partner.
Madam Deputy Speaker, not engaging with China is therefore no choice at all. Chinese power is an inescapable fact.
After what the Intelligence and Security Committee in 2023 described as a “completely inadequate” approach over the past decade to dealing with China’s “size, ambition and capability”, we must now look at the facts.
[Political content redacted]
Madam Deputy Speaker, this Government conducted an audit of our most complex bilateral relationship to deliver a long-term strategy – moving beyond cheap rhetoric to a data-driven, cross-government approach. I would like to thank the hundreds who contributed – Honourable Members of course, experts, businesses, diaspora communities, Devolved Governments, and close allies.
Madam Deputy Speaker, the audit is less a single act, than an ongoing exercise which will continue to guide the UK’s approach to China.
It informed the Government’s Strategic Defence Review, which assessed China was a “sophisticated and persistent challenge”. It informed the National Security Strategy, published today, which sets out China’s impacts on each strategic pillar of our UK national security. And it has steered our Trade and Industrial Strategies, which analysed where greater engagement is possible – given the important role China can play in delivering UK growth.
Madam Deputy Speaker, Honourable Members will understand that much of the audit was conducted at high classification, and most of the detail is not disclosable without damaging our national interests. I am therefore providing a broad summary of its recommendations today, in a manner consistent with that of our Five Eyes partners.
Madam Deputy Speaker, on security, the audit described a full spectrum of threats – from espionage and cyber-attacks, to the repression of Hong Kongers, and attacks on the rules-based order. It made clear that our protections must extend more widely than they currently do, from the security of this House, to our critical national infrastructure.
Honourable Members will again recognise that disclosing the detail of these responses would undermine their effectiveness.
But I can confirm that, following the audit, we are investing £600 million in our intelligence services. We are updating our state threats legislation, following Jon Hall’s review. We are strengthening our response to transnational repression, introducing training for police and launching more online guidance to support victims.
We are launching, as announced in the Industrial Strategy, a 12-week consultation on updating the definitions covering the 17 sensitive areas under the National Security and Investment Act. And we are working bilaterally with China to enhance intelligence flows related to illicit finance specifically, organised immigration crime and scam centres, using National Crime Agency capabilities.
Madam Deputy Speaker, on global security, the audit underlined the extent of Beijing’s support for the Kremlin. The Government has already tripled the number of Chinese entities sanctioned for equipping Russia’s illegal war. And we will continue to confront that.
The audit reiterated that our approach to China must stay rooted both in international law and deterrence. We will continue to confront China’s dangerous and destabilising activity in the South China Sea, which I saw for myself when I visited the Philippines.
And we will continue to work with our regional partners to support freedom of navigation and call out China’s abuses. We will double down on AUKUS.
We will not change our longstanding position on Taiwan, while sustaining unofficial but vibrant ties with Taiwan on trade, on education and innovation. We will also never shy away from shining a spotlight on human rights, notably the situations in Xinjiang and Tibet.
While on Hong Kong, we will insist that China honours its commitments under the Sino-British Joint Declaration, including by repealing the National Security Law and releasing Jimmy Lai.
Madam Deputy Speaker, the audit made clear that our approach will always be guided by the UK’s long-term economic growth priorities. It provided ample evidence of the extent to which our economies are intertwined.
China is our third biggest trading partner. Our universities’ second-largest source of international students. China will continue to play a vital role in supporting the UK’s secure growth.
But over the past decade, we have not had the structures, either to take the opportunities, or protect us from the risks which those deep links demand. Businesses told us time and again that they have lacked senior political engagement. Lacked adequate government guidance.
We have already begun to develop new structures. Regular Economic and Financial Dialogues, with my Right Honourable Friend the Chancellor setting us on course to unlock £1 billion of economic value for the UK economy, and positioning the UK’s world leading financial sector to reflect China’s importance to the global economy.
Joint Economic and Trade Commissions, and Joint Commission Meetings on science. We will also launch a new online hub bringing together detailed and specific business advice.
And the forthcoming Trade Strategy will set out how we will support British firms to enhance links with China’s vast and growing consumer market, as well as assess new tools to keep goods made by forced labour anywhere in the world off Britain’s high streets.
Madam Deputy Speaker, the audit recognised that China’s global role does not fit into simple stereotypes. China is the world’s biggest emitter, but also the biggest producer of renewables. It offers $80 billion towards development annually. And China is the UK’s second largest research collaborator – 11% of British research output included Chinese authors.
So, the audit was clear. The UK must develop new dialogues with China on issues like climate, development, global health and science, as well as on trade. In doing so, we are driving our long-term interests and creating secure opportunities for UK plc.
Madam Deputy Speaker, we cannot deal with China’s complexity, unless we improve our capability to understand it – for our national security and for secure trade and growth.
The audit showed that [political content redacted] there was a profound lack of confidence in how to deal with China, and a profound lack of knowledge regarding China’s culture, its history and – most importantly – its language.
Madam Deputy Speaker, over the past year I have found that far too few mandarins speak Mandarin. We are already taking action to address this. Introducing a new China Fast Stream in the FCDO. Creating an FCDO global China network. Training over 1000 civil servants on China policy in the past year.
Enhancing these capabilities still further will be a core focus for the £290 million FCDO Transformation Fund, announced in the National Security Strategy by my Honourable Friend a short time ago. The new strategy which proceeds from this audit will ensure that the Government examines the full spectrum of interests in its decision-making processes [political content redacted].
Madam Deputy Speaker, anyone expecting a simple prescription on China is not living in the real world. The audit has painted a complex picture, but it has provided us with a clear way forward.
The UK’s approach to China will be founded on progressive realism: taking the world as it is, not as we would wish it to be. Like our closest allies, we will cooperate where we can and we will challenge where we must.
Never compromising on our national security. Recognising the complexity of the world as it is. Engaging confidently, carefully and pragmatically. Delivering secure growth. These are the hallmarks of grown-up government, acting in the long-term national interest.
I commend this statement to the House.
Source: US State of Wyoming
Wyoming National Guard
By Joseph Coslett
CHEYENNE, Wyo. — A hush fell over the auditorium as the final notes of the national anthem rang out. Then, surrounded by family, fellow Soldiers, and senior leaders from across the Wyoming Military Department, First Sergeant Charles A. Olivas Jr. stepped into a moment that marked the end of a 36-year journey and the beginning of a new chapter.
For more than three decades, Olivas served as a steady anchor in the Wyoming Army National Guard, known as much for his logistical expertise as for his servant-hearted leadership. His career spanned deployments, state activations, leadership transformations and cultural shifts across the force. Yet through it all, one constant remained: His commitment to service and family.
“This is a tremendous accomplishment,” said Maj. Gen. Greg Porter, Wyoming’s Adjutant General. “When you look at the slideshow and hear his story, it becomes clear—Charles Olivas’s life is about two things: service and family. Every role he’s taken has been about giving of himself. Whether it was food service, equal opportunity, or sexual assault prevention, he always showed up—not for himself, but for the people around him.”
Olivas’s military journey began in 1988 as a junior in high school, when he enlisted through the Split Option Program. He went on to serve in a long list of units including the 289th General Supply Company, 22nd Support Command during Desert Shield/Desert Storm, the 115th Field Artillery Brigade, 94th Troop Command, and multiple deployments to Kuwait. Over the years, he filled nearly every NCO leadership billet, culminating in his final post as the G4 Superbird Logistics Management Specialist.
His service wasn’t confined to uniforms and formations. Olivas’s parallel civilian role as a federal technician allowed him to impact the Guard’s day-to-day operations while his community engagement amplified his reach. He taught English as a second language, coached baseball for 17 years, led parent-teacher organizations, facilitated faith formation classes and served on statewide boards and prevention coalitions.
During the ceremony, laughter and reverence interwove as family members recalled his sense of humor and relentless commitment. From teaching others to lead to turning “stupid but effective” ideas into policy, Olivas embraced both the science and art of military life. “I got lucky,” he said. “I got to be part of military science and military art. When those two come together, they make music, and I got to be the conductor.”
Lt. Col. Robert Lejeune, Wyoming Army National Guard chief of staff, said Olivas was more than a logistics expert, he was a mentor who influenced generations of Soldiers.
“In all the chaos and turbulence of the last four decades: Desert Storm, the Twin Towers, Iraq, Afghanistan, Charles was the one steady point we could count on,” Lejeune said. “There were times when I was off base, and he brought me back in. I wouldn’t be here today without his mentorship.”
That sentiment echoed across the ceremony. Col. Kristina Tweedy, Wyoming Air Guard director of staff-air, recounted long conversations with Olivas during his time in human resources, calling him a “servant leader” whose unique perspective and integrity left a permanent mark.
“When someone makes a real impact on your career, you never forget them,” she said. “Charles is the kind of person whose legacy is the number of people he’s touched, Army, Air. It doesn’t matter. They all know who he is.”
Throughout his career, Olivas received dozens of honors, including the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation and Achievement Medals with multiple Oak Leaf Clusters, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Kuwait Liberation Medal, and the Army Meritorious Unit Citation. He was also a recipient of the Order of Saint Barbara—recognizing his connection to the field artillery—and a long-standing member of the Wyoming Military Funeral Honors Team.
But for Olivas, the awards were always secondary to the relationships.
“Be the leader you want leading you,” he said during his final remarks. “When it’s your time to lead—lead. When it’s your time to follow—be a good follower too.”
In true first sergeant fashion, he left the crowd with one final exercise: “Put your hands out like you’re going to clap,” he grinned. “On the count: 1… 2… 3… CLAP. That’s leadership. You see how I led you? You are now qualified.”
A standing ovation followed.
As the benediction closed the ceremony, Father Emilio offered a final prayer: “May Saint Michael, protector in battle, watch over you and your loved ones. May you never doubt that your service is remembered.”
Source: US State of Wyoming
Wyoming National Guard
CHEYENNE, Wyo. — The Wyoming National Guard teamed up with the Colorado and South Dakota National Guard Counterdrug Aviation Teams to support the Drug Enforcement Administration’s 28th National Drug Take Back Day—a nationwide effort aimed at providing a safe, responsible way to dispose of unused prescription medications.
For nearly 30 years, the DEA has hosted this event to help communities across the country reduce the risk of medication misuse and overdose. This year, Wyoming’s own Counterdrug Program members, Tech. Sgt. Shayne Andren and Sgt. 1st Class Ty Nieters, led the Guard’s efforts across the state.
Why Drug Take Back Day Matters
Nieters said unused prescriptions can often be the first step toward substance abuse.
“Prescription drug misuse remains a major public health concern, with unused medications often becoming a gateway to addiction,” Nieters said.
Research shows many cases of opioid misuse begin with drugs taken from family or friends. Drug Take Back Day helps break that cycle by encouraging proper disposal—and in doing so, it helps protect families and the environment from harm.
A Unified Guard Effort
Planning for the event spanned four months. Andren worked directly with the DEA to coordinate logistics, tapping into the National Guard’s regional network for help. Thanks to support from Colorado and South Dakota’s Counterdrug Aviation Programs, the team was able to move fast and efficiently.
Using UH-72 Lakota helicopters, the aviation crews transported 1,639.25 pounds of unwanted medications from 20 participating law enforcement agencies across Wyoming.
“This mission was about more than logistics: It was about ensuring the safe disposal of thousands of pounds of medication that could have otherwise contributed to substance misuse,” Andren said. “By working with multiple National Guard Counterdrug teams, we were able to take a proactive approach to prevention and strengthen partnerships for future initiatives.”
Beyond Drug Take Back: Ongoing Prevention
While Drug Take Back Day occurs every year, it’s just one piece of the Wyoming National Guard’s larger prevention strategy.
The Drug Demand Reduction and Outreach or DDRO Team continues working year-round to educate communities, equip first responders, and support at-risk populations. Ongoing initiatives include:
“Our mission doesn’t stop at drug take back. This is just one piece of a larger strategy,” Nieters said. “The DDRO Team is committed to taking proactive steps to prevent substance misuse before it starts. Whether it’s educating families with hidden in plain sight or equipping first responders with Narcan training, we are focused on making a lasting impact.”
As the fight against substance misuse evolves, the Wyoming National Guard continues to make an impact.
“This operation was an excellent example of interagency collaboration at its finest,” said Brig. Gen. Michelle Mulberry, director of the joint staff for the Wyoming National Guard. “The teamwork displayed by Wyoming, Colorado and South Dakota National Guard units in coordination with the DEA showcases the importance of multi-state partnerships in addressing substance misuse prevention. The success of this mission sets a high standard for future prevention efforts.”
Source: European Commission (video statements)
“By 2030, Europe must have everything it needs for credible deterrence.” – President von der Leyen
On 24 June 2025, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen made her opening statement at the 2025 NATO Summit following Dutch Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.
Key topics on the summit agenda:
At the summit taking place on 24-25 June, NATO Leaders will address a variety of issues facing the Alliance. They will focus on deterrence and defence, ensuring that NATO has the resources, forces and capabilities to face any threat
For the transcript of President von der Leyen’s speech, see here: https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/speech_25_1606
Follow live events and access media content here:
https://audiovisual.ec.europa.eu/en/
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Source: France-Diplomatie – Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Development
Published on June 24, 2025
Joint communiqué issued by the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs and the Ministry for the Armed Forces (Paris, 22 June 2025)
Following the meeting of the Defence and National Security Council (CDSN), at President Macron’s request, the Minister for the Armed Forces, M. Sébastien Lecornu, and the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, M. Jean-Noël Barrot, announce that in addition to civilian air links, in particular chartered flights leaving Amman, military (A400M) flights are now being deployed to transport French nationals who so wish from Ben Gurion Airport in Israel to Cyprus, subject to Israeli authorization.
Since Friday 13 June, the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs’s teams have been working actively to lend assistance to our French nationals in the region. Teams at the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs’ Crisis and Support Centre have answered more than 4,500 calls. The Crisis and Support Centre’s emergency numbers are still accessible at all times. They are posted on our embassies’ and consulates’ websites.
On Sunday 22 June, 160 French nationals, most of them in situations of emergency and vulnerability, accompanied by a doctor from the Ministry’s Crisis and Support Centre, are being repatriated from Jordan (Amman). Other flights will follow, in addition to direct or indirect commercial links leaving Amman (Jordan) and Sharm el Sheikh (Egypt).
On Monday 23 June at 4.00 p.m., an additional commercial flight from Amman is being put in place by Royal Jordanian at France’s request; it will enable 150 French nationals to return; for Tuesday 24 June, the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs is chartering a flight that will allow more than 150 nationals in vulnerable situations to return to France.
Security advice and emergency information are being updated in real time here: https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/afrique-du-nord-moyen-orient/article/consignes-de-securite-a-destination-des-ressortissants-francais-au-proche-et
We remind all French people of the need to register on the Fil d’Ariane prior to any trip abroad: https://fildariane.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fildariane-internet/accueil
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans on Tuesday announced a new military aid package worth 175 million euros (203 million U.S. dollars) for Ukraine.
The package includes radar systems, unmanned vehicles, and drones, along with contracts with Ukrainian companies to manufacture drones.
The announcement coincided with the opening of NATO’s annual summit in The Hague.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in The Hague on Tuesday, and met with Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof. (1 euro = 1.16 U.S. dollar)
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
U.S. President Donald Trump told Israel on Tuesday “do not drop those bombs” on Iran, saying that this would be a “major violation” of the ceasefire.
“ISRAEL. DO NOT DROP THOSE BOMBS. IF YOU DO, IT IS A MAJOR VIOLATION. BRING YOUR PILOTS HOME, NOW!” Trump wrote in a post on his Truth Social platform.
Israel said on Tuesday it had identified missiles from Iran, shortly after the Israeli authorities said they had accepted a ceasefire proposed by Trump.
Iran had rejected reports of having launched missiles towards Israel following the ceasefire declared between the two sides earlier in the day, the semi-official Tasnim news agency reported.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said in a statement that he had “instructed the military to respond forcefully to Iran’s violation of the ceasefire with intense strikes” against targets “in the heart of Tehran.”
The missiles triggered air raid sirens across the Haifa area before being intercepted by the Israeli air defense systems, the military said. No injuries or damage had been reported.
Meanwhile, the Israeli Air Force continued its strikes in Iran, unleashing another wave of strikes in western Iran, with the military saying they had targeted missile launchers.
The latest escalation came shortly after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Tuesday that Israel had accepted a ceasefire proposed by Trump and had achieved its war goals against Iran.
Trump had earlier announced that a ceasefire between the two sides would begin around 0400 GMT, with Iran expected to halt its operations first.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said earlier that there was no “agreement” on a ceasefire between Iran and Israel. However, he suggested Iran would be prepared to halt further retaliation if Israeli attacks stopped by 4 a.m. Tehran time (0030 GMT).
“If Israel stops its illegal aggression against the Iranian people no later than 4 a.m., Iran has no intention of continuing its response afterwards,” Araqchi wrote in a post on X, adding that “the final decision on the cessation of our military operations will be made later.”
The conflicting narratives raised questions about the implementation and durability of any potential ceasefire. It remained unclear whether the reported deal had been communicated through diplomatic channels, or whether either side intended to follow the terms.
Trump announced Monday evening that Israel and Iran have reached a formal agreement to implement a complete and total ceasefire, marking what he called the end of the “12-Day War.”
In a post on his Truth Social platform Monday, Trump said the ceasefire would initially last 12 hours, during which the opposing sides would maintain a posture of “peace and respect.”
Source: United States Navy
In his new role as a civilian F-35 maintenance test pilot, retired Marine Ross Fearon traded combat maneuvers for flight testing to ensure the nation’s warfighters receive flight-ready aircraft following modification or repair at the depot.
Source: US Department of Homeland Security
Criminal illegal aliens arrested include an individual with admitted ties to Hezbollah, a known or suspected terrorist, and an alleged former sniper for the Iranian army
WASHINGTON — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested 11 Iranian nationals illegally in the United States over the weekend. ICE also arrested a U.S. citizen who threatened to kill ICE law enforcement while harboring an illegal alien from Iran. The weekend arrests reflect the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) commitment to keeping known and suspected terrorists out of American communities.
“Under Secretary Noem, DHS has been full throttle on identifying and arresting known or suspected terrorists and violent extremists that illegally entered this country, came in through Biden’s fraudulent parole programs or otherwise,” said DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “We have been saying we are getting the worst of the worst out—and we are. We don’t wait until a military operation to execute; we proactively deliver on President Trump’s mandate to secure the homeland.”
You can report crimes and suspicious activity by calling 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.
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Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense
BEIJING, June 24 — The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Defense Ministers’ Meeting will be held from June 25 to 26 in Qingdao City, east China’s Shandong Province. Chinese Defense Minister Admiral Dong Jun will host and address the meeting. Defense leaders of SCO member countries, as well as senior officials of SCO Secretariat and Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure will participate in the meeting.
As one of the important activities hosted by China as the rotating president of SCO, the 2025 Defense Ministers’ Meeting will further consolidate and deepen the military mutual trust and pragmatic cooperation among SCO member countries, promote the implementation of co-building the shared home featuring solidarity and mutual trust, peace and tranquility, prosperity and development, good-neighborliness and friendship, as well as fairness and justice, and contribute to safeguarding world and regional peace and stability and promoting prosperity and development.
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Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
New multi-million pound joint Defence / NHS healthcare centre to open in 2026. The facility will treat up to 1,000 military personnel, families and civilian patients daily.
Colonel Tariq Ahmad, Regional Clinical Director, Defence Primary Healthcare (North). MOD copyright
A new cutting-edge healthcare facility in Catterick, jointly built by the Ministry of Defence and the NHS, will treat thousands of patients a year including the military, their families and the local civilian population in North Yorkshire and the wider area when it opens next year.
The Catterick Integrated Care Centre (CICC) which has received approximately £110 million of funding, is a first-of-its-kind health partnership, directly employing more than 300 highly skilled medical personnel from the MOD and the NHS to treat up to 1,000 people a day.
Situated within Catterick Garrison, home to over 14,000 military personnel, the centre will offer a range of services, including primary care, rehabilitation, mental health support, and specialist treatments. It will see military personnel, their families and the wider local population all treated at the same location.
The project aims to improve local access to healthcare, providing a variety of healthcare services in one location, and will also provide opportunities for training.
Colonel Tariq Ahmad, Regional Clinical Director, Defence Primary Healthcare (North), said:
This centre is a great investment in our local community, with a bold and ambitious vision to approach care in an integrated way, working collaboratively with primary and secondary care, local authority and public health services for the benefit of our patients. It’s a coordinated approach to building better outcomes for the whole community.
Michelle Hagger, Programme Manager from NHS Humber and North Yorkshire ICB added:
The concept began in 2015, and our vision is now inching ever closer to reality. This purpose-built, state-of-the-art facility will bring together a broad range of integrated and responsive health and care services under one roof, helping ensure residents across Richmondshire can access the right care, in the right place, at the right time.
Construction firm Tilbury Douglas was awarded the contract to build the CICC in 2021 by the Ministry of Defence, with over 200 people employed on the site over the lifetime of the project.
Paul Ellenor, Regional Director for Yorkshire and the Northeast at Tilbury Douglas, said:
This represents a landmark investment in integrated healthcare, and Tilbury Douglas is proud to be at the forefront of its delivery. It reflects the strength of collaboration between the Ministry of Defence, the NHS, and delivery partners. This pioneering facility will not only transform access to healthcare for both military and civilian communities, but also set a new standard for integrated service delivery. We’re proud to contribute to a project that enhances long-term wellbeing, strengthens local partnerships, and supports national priorities around Defence health and public care infrastructure.
John Weatherby, Principal Project Manager for the CICC from the Defence Infrastructure Organisation, which is part of the MOD and oversees all UK Defence land, buildings, and infrastructure, added:
We’re proud to be building this fantastic new facility, which will greatly benefit both the military and the local population in the Catterick area. This is the first joint MOD and NHS project of this scale and is the result of a collaborative relationship between the MOD, NHS, Tilbury Douglas and other partners.
The CICC is intended to be a model of innovation for future joint Ministry of Defence and NHS healthcare initiatives, offering modern medical technologies, a dedicated team of healthcare professionals, and rehabilitation.
Over the coming months, a variety of engagement sessions and open days will take place to give members of the community the chance to find out more about the services the centre will provide.
Work will now continue at pace to ensure the CICC is fully ready to start seeing patients when it opens in 2026, with staff due to begin familiarising themselves with the new facility shortly to ensure this this partnership is able to meet personnel needs and that Defence is playing it’s part in the Government’s mission to build an NHS for the future.
Source: United States Navy
TOWNSVILLE, Australia — U.S. Marines and Sailors with the Marine Rotational Force – Darwin (MRF-D) 25.3 Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) arrived in Townsville to train alongside the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) during Exercise Southern Jackaroo 25, a multi-lateral exercise held from May 25 through June 13, 2025 at the Townsville Field Training Area, Queensland, Australia.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, Ed Miliband, speaks at the RenewableUK conference.
Thank you, Jane [Cooper]. I just want to say how brilliant it is to be here today, it’s a real privilege. I read my old speech from a year ago, about 15 days before the general election, and it holds up reasonably well to history.
I felt an incredible sense of excitement back then about having a chance to be Secretary of State, and today I feel an incredible sense of privilege. One of the reasons I feel that sense of privilege is because of all of you, because of the incredibly inspiring things you are doing for energy security, for jobs, around the country, and to tackle the climate crisis.
I also want to pay tribute to Jane, you are doing an absolutely brilliant job championing this industry – you and the RenewableUK team are truly outstanding.
Can I say at the same time we are delighted to have secured our superstar signing Dan McGrail as interim CEO of Great British Energy – it’s fantastic to have him and Juergen Maier both here, as well as my colleague Michael Shanks, Minister for Energy who many of you will have met and is doing an absolutely brilliant job, and it’s a privilege to work alongside.
As I walked into the conference today and saw the banner ‘Mission: Possible’, I felt a real sense of excitement.
Because when I look around the exhibition hall and this room, I feel that overwhelming sense of possibility, as the slogan suggests.
Huge economic and industrial opportunities for Britain, huge chances to transform our country. Challenges of course, but as I say I am incredibly proud of this industry, and for 5 years we have worked together on a shared agenda.
For energy security, lower bills, good jobs and climate.
I think it is an inspiring and exciting vision of a new era of clean energy abundance for Britain, getting off the rollercoaster of fossil fuels – and we’re reminded by geo-political events all the time how important that is.
And at the Spending Review last week we committed to the most significant programme of investment in homegrown clean energy in the UK’s history.
On Tuesday, we announced the biggest nuclear building programme in a generation, creating jobs in Suffolk, Nottinghamshire and across the UK.
On Thursday, investment in kickstarting carbon capture in Aberdeenshire and the Humber.
On Friday, half a billion pounds of funding for Britain’s first hydrogen network to help drive industrial renewal.
And today we go further with a genuinely transformative package of investment in offshore wind supply chains and jobs.
I truly believe we are witnessing the coming of age of Britain’s green industrial revolution as we build this new era.
I think it demonstrates above all what an active and strategic government working in the closest partnership with industry can achieve.
So I want to talk today about the clarity of mission we’re seeking to provide, the way we’re breaking down the barriers to success – barriers you talked a lot with us about when in opposition – the role of catalytic public investment – which is partly about the announcement I’m making today – and then a bit about what I would ask from you as an industry.
First, I know it has been a tough time for the industry.
Offshore wind is not immune from the global economic challenges we have seen in the last few years, many of which remain present today.
My response and my responsibility is to ensure that you have the clarity and certainty you need to make future investment decisions, because I know the biggest enemy of investment is uncertainty.
We want Britain to be a safe haven for investment.
That is why from day one we have offered a clear sense of direction, with our goals to deliver clean power by 2030 and accelerate to net zero across the economy.
Just 6 months after we came to office we published our 2030 Clean Power Action Plan.
Setting out for the first time the different pathways for deployment of different technologies.
Offshore wind, onshore wind, solar, nuclear, batteries, hydrogen, CCUS.
To give developers and investors clarity about the direction of travel.
When we came to office we also took decisions around AR6 to make it a record-breaking auction.
But we have also listened hard to the industry about how we can improve the auction process – particularly for fixed and floating offshore wind.
And we will shortly confirm key decisions for the AR7 auction. I want to say to you very clearly, as far as that decision is concerned and all other decisions, my overriding priority is to give you confidence and certainty because I know these are essential ingredients for you to make the long-term investments we need.
Second, for years clean energy projects have been held back by barriers and blockages.
You told us we needed to deal with them.
So over the last 11 months, that’s what we have gone about doing.
On planning, we lifted the onshore wind ban within 72 hours of coming to office.
We’ve introduced the Planning and Infrastructure Bill – the biggest reform of planning in a generation.
And we’ve sped up planning decisions, including consenting enough clean energy to power the equivalent of almost 2 million homes.
On grid, we’ve ended the first come first served connections queue which wasn’t serving our country well, prioritising the power projects we need.
And we’ve brought forward plans to ensure communities benefit from hosting clean energy infrastructure.
We’re also working with Defra on improving environmental consenting.
On radar, we’ve worked with the Ministry of Defence to resolve funding issues that have plagued this sector for years.
On skills, we’ve backed industry’s skills passport for oil and gas workers.
And set up the Office for Clean Energy Jobs to ensure we have the skilled workforce we need and to do that planning with our colleagues at the Department for Education.
In addressing these long-standing issues, we are trying to break down those barriers, which again get in the way of your investment and try to make progress step by step and demonstrating each day what a mission driven government means.
My observation from the first 11 months in office is having this as one of the Prime Minister’s 5 missions makes all the difference in driving through Whitehall and working with others.
Third, alongside clarity, certainty and breaking down the barriers we are delivering catalytic public investment to secure jobs and supply chains as part of our long-term industrial strategy.
This is the right choice for Britain because we want those jobs, it’s also the right choice for our energy security and resilience – and the right long-term way I believe to deal with some of the pressures the industry faces.
I think it’s fair to say we know that for too long governments have not focused enough on ensuring our success in offshore wind generation leads to the jobs our country needs.
This government is different.
There is a global race for these jobs, and we are determined to create them in Britain.
You told us public investment could unlock funding from the private sector – and you’re right.
With Great British Energy that is what we are committed to do.
And today we are announcing a truly historic partnership between public and private investors.
Hundreds of millions of public funding from Great British Energy crowding in many hundreds of millions more from the offshore wind industry and The Crown Estate.
Enabling us to today announce a total of £1 billion of supply chain funding to bring offshore wind jobs to Britain.
It’s designed, this fund, to turbocharge the brilliant work of the sector’s Industrial Growth Plan to invest in ports and factories, so we make turbine towers, blades, foundations and cables here in the UK.
Helping to drive the clean energy rollout at home and capture a growing export market abroad – including seizing the opportunities of being an early mover in floating offshore wind.
And this is just the start, with Great British Energy bringing together a wider group of public and private investors to build our offshore wind supply chains and I am incredibly excited about the work that Juergen and Dan are doing at GBE.
Today I can also confirm we have released the results of the first Clean Industry Bonus round.
Again here, you told us that the private sector would step up, if we showed the importance of building supply chains here in the UK, and again you were right.
We were delighted by the response of developers to this scheme.
Showing that when government leads with ambition, industry is ready to match it.
We calculate that every pound of public money could unlock up to £17 of private investment.
The Clean Industry Bonus unleashing the potential of billions of private investment in factories and ports from the North East to East Anglia to Scotland.
When we talk about catalytic investment, this is what we mean.
Public investment crowding in, not crowding out, the private capital we need.
And giving you the confidence to build a long-term industrial base for Britain.
So look, these are some of the steps we’re taking. Government doesn’t get everything right, but what we are seeking to do is deliver on the promises we made to you in opposition about how we can work together – a true partnership.
Now often the industry asks me, how can we help you to deliver this mission? Let me just give you a few thoughts on that.
On jobs, you have a crucial role in reversing decades of failure to invest in our industrial communities and creating a new generation of good jobs at decent wages.
You have shown your commitment to building supply chains in Britain.
And my ask of you is to ensure you deliver the 95,000 jobs this industry says it could support in the UK by the end of the decade.
On trade unions, there is important work on union recognition in some renewables companies.
But I want to be clear: this government considers trade unions as an essential part of a modern workplace and economy.
So I ask you to recognise the huge value of partnering with trade unions in all parts of the industry.
And finally, I would say this:
I am one of your biggest champions because I know that this mission is the route to building a more secure energy system that can bring down bills for good.
As we consider the multiple pathways to clean power, my mandate to Chris Stark as head of our 2030 Mission Control, is to deliver at least cost to billpayers and taxpayers and the most economic benefit to the country.
So in AR7, AR8, AR9 and beyond, value for money for billpayers is our priority, recognising that while the market needs to make a return, we also need to deliver a fair price for consumers.
Once again, this must be a partnership between us.
We are doing everything we can, as I have set out, to help the industry continue its strong record in bringing down costs.
And I urge you to continue to drive forward with innovation and competition to deliver for the country.
Let me end with this before we get into questions.
I think over the last 11 months we have shown that Britain is back in the race for the jobs and industries of the future.
And above all we have shown one thing fundamentally, which is we are serious about delivering. When we said it, we meant it. When we said becoming a clean energy superpower would become one of the Prime Minister’s 5 missions, we meant it. I have my regular meetings with the Prime Minister about this issue and he is incredibly inspired by what you are delivering.
What we’re seeking to do is have a plan to deliver.
Clear and consistent leadership.
Breaking down the barriers.
Catalytic public investment.
A true partnership between government, trade unions and industry.
We believe this is how we build the age of clean energy abundance.
This is how we boost our energy independence and bring down bills for families and businesses.
This is how we seize the economic and industrial opportunity of our time.
And this is how we face up to the greatest long-term challenge we face as a country and as a world, the climate crisis.
My final thought is this: of course, the industry faces challenges that I am aware of. Nobody believed this was going to be easy, the kind of transformation we are talking about in our economy and in our energy system.
The thing I feel above all, after 11 months in this role, is more of a sense of optimism about what we can achieve together, more of a sense of optimism that this is the right path for energy security, more of a sense of optimism that this can be the jobs driver of the 21st century for our country.
Going round the country, there’s nothing more inspiring than seeing those jobs being created and the opportunity for young people doing apprenticeships and being part of this industry.
I am more certain than ever this is the right path to tackle the biggest long-term threat to humanity, the climate crisis.
Thank you so much for what you do for our country, thank you so much for your partnership with government.
And I look forward to continuing to work together to do great things in the months and years ahead.
Thank you.
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
BEIJING, June 24 (Xinhua) — Weapons and military equipment to be displayed at a military parade in China on Sept. 3 will demonstrate the systemic combat capabilities, new combat forces and strategic deterrence power of China’s armed forces, Wu Zeke, an official with the Joint Staff of the Central Military Commission, said at a press conference on Tuesday.
All the weapons and equipment that will appear in the parade are the main combat equipment in active service with the PLA, reflecting China’s independent innovative capability in weapons development, Wu Zeke said.
According to him, the military parade will feature only domestically produced weapons and equipment, which are distinguished by higher strike accuracy, improved adaptability on the battlefield and greater combat effectiveness.
On the same day, it was announced at a press conference that a military parade would be held on September 3 in Tiananmen Square in Beijing to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War.
Wu Zeke added that all weapons and equipment in the upcoming parade will be selected from combat units of various services and branches of the armed forces, including strategic strike forces, advanced operational and tactical equipment, and new-model combat forces suitable for future forms of warfare.
The weapons and military equipment that will be on display at the parade will also cover the full range of capabilities related to command, control, reconnaissance, early warning, air and missile defence, as well as fire strikes and integrated support.
In addition, the parade will be organized according to battle groups, embodying the basic principles of using information as the main tool, system support, elite troop operations and joint force victory, Wu Zeke said.
Wu Zeke noted that in recent years, China has made a series of technological breakthroughs and developed a batch of advanced weapons and equipment, opening a new era in the development of its weapons.
He added that the latest aircraft carriers, destroyers, stealth fighters, unmanned aerial vehicles and strategic missiles have been put into service at an accelerated pace, marking a major leap forward in the development of the Chinese military’s weapons and equipment and providing strong support for the substantial enhancement of its combat capabilities.
“This has given our military more confidence in its ability to fight and win,” Wu Zeke concluded. -0-
Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense
On the afternoon of June 13, 2025, Senior Colonel Jiang Bin, Deputy Director-General of the Information Office of China’s Ministry of National Defense (MND) and Spokesperson for the MND, answered recent media queries concerning the military.
On the afternoon of June 13, 2025, Senior Colonel Jiang Bin, Deputy Director-General of the Information Office of China’s Ministry of National Defense (MND) and Spokesperson for the MND, answers recent media queries concerning the military. (Photo by Sun Yue)
(The following English text is for reference. In case of any divergence of interpretation, the Chinese text shall prevail.)
Jiang Bin: First, I would like to announce two pieces of information.
First, the third China-ASEAN Defense Think Tank Exchange will be held in Guiyang from June 18 to 20. Themed on “Jointly Promote Regional Peace and Build a Safe and Secure Home”, the Exchange focuses on topics such as innovation in China-ASEAN defense cooperation, maritime security cooperation, and crisis management, providing insights and suggestions for building a closer China-ASEAN community with a shared future. Defense policy officials, experts and scholars, as well as think tank representatives from China, ASEAN countries, and Timor-Leste will attend the event.
Second, the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) will start recruiting the 14th batch of female pilot cadets among high school graduates across 31 provinces (autonomous regions and municipalities) from June 2025. The selection process will be conducted in two stages: preliminary selection and final selection. Female candidates with excellent National College Entrance Examination scores and outstanding flight potential will have the opportunity to be admitted bythe “joint degree programs”, allowing them to study both at the PLAAF academies and at Peking University, Tsinghua University, or Beihang University. We welcome more aspiring young women to apply for recruitment and join the PLAAF, a force full of honour and dreams. For more details, please visit the official website of the Pilot Selection Bureau of PLA Air Force at www.kjzfw.mil.cn.
Journalist: It is reported that President Xi Jinping recently had a phone call with US President Donald Trump at the request of the latter. President Xi pointed out that the two sides should enhance exchanges in the fields of diplomacy, economy and trade, military affairs, and law enforcement. What are your expectations on China-US mil-to-mil relations?
Jiang Bin: China upholds the principle of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation, and stays committed to promoting the stable, sound, and sustainable development of China-US military-to-military relations. It is hopedthat the US side stop hyping up the so-called “China threat”, earnestly respect China’s core interests and major concerns, work with China towards the same direction to strengthen communication and dialogue, properly manage differences, and enhance mutual understanding and mutual trust, so as to jointly improve and develop relations between the two militaries.
Journalist: It is reported that the 2025 military academy enrollment plan for high school graduates has recently been released, which has attracted wide public attention. Could you elaborate on the new features and changes in this year’s enrollment plan?
Jiang Bin: In line with Xi Jinping Thought on Strengthening the Military, the 2025 enrollment work of military academies fully implements the overarching plan for deepening the reform of military academies, focuses on the core needs of combat readiness, and integrates the needs for cultivating high-calibre military talents and developing academic disciplines.The number of high schoolgraduates that the military academies plan to admit this year is basically the same as last year.
There are four changes in this year’s recruitment. First,there has been a change in the number of enrolling academies, which has been reduced from 27 to 22, so that the military talent cultivation systembecomes more efficient and streamlined. The PLA Army (PLAA) Special Operations Academy, the PLAA Academy of Border and Coastal Defense, the Special Police College of the People’s Armed Police (PAP), and the PAP Coast Guard College will no longer directly enroll high school graduates. Instead, they will enroll students from other PLAA and PAP academies to continue their specialized military training. Second, the method ofcadet cultivation has been changed. In their enrollment plans, the military academies will no longer make the distinction between “commanding” and “non-commanding” categories. The removal of such a distinction and the resulting clarification of cultivation goals will facilitate the students to have a clearer career plan from the outset. Third, military academy graduates are allowed to directly apply for a master’s degree. Starting from 2025, allmilitary academy graduates will have the opportunity to directly apply for master’s programs in related fields, providing more diverse career paths for cadets. Fourth, a special operations talent selection program has been established. Whiling studying in military academies, those who aspire to join the special operations forces will havethe opportunity to participate in a selection program and receive professional and elite training in special operations.
Military academies are the cradle for cultivating military talents. What’s more important is that they provide a broad stage for young students to pursue their dreams of serving the country. Here, you will be educated with cutting-edge military science and technology, grow alongside like-minded comrades, and forge an iron will and a strong team spirit. In the journey to make our armed forces strong, opportunities awaits you here. We warmly welcome young aspirants to actively apply for military academies, so as to write a magnificent chapter on strengthening the nation and the military with your passion and youth.
Journalist: The Japanese Ministry of Defense recently stated that two Chinese aircraft carriers operated simultaneously in the Pacific for the first time, and that carrier-based aircraft came “unusually close” to Japanese Self-Defense Force aircraft. What’s your comment?
Jiang Bin: Recently, the task groups of the PLA Navy’s aircraft carriers Liaoning and Shandong conducted routine training in the West Pacific. During the training, Japanese vessels and aircraft repeatedly made close-in provocations, and even deliberately created maritime and air securityrisks. We are strongly dissatisfied and has lodged solemn representations with the Japanese side.
The Chinese aircraft carrier task groups conducted training activities on the high seas, which did not target any specific country or objective, and was in full compliance with international law and international practices. The Chinese side,in response to the Japanese vessels and aircraft’s forcible entryinto the training area, took legitimate, lawful, professional, and restrainedcountermeasures all the way through. We urge the Japanese side to stop dangerous and provocative actions, so as to prevent accidents at sea and in the air.
Journalist: According to reports, the Taipei School of Economics and Political Science Foundation recently held an unofficial “chief-of-staff” level war-gaming on a Taiwan crisis for the first time. The former “Chief of the General Staff” of the Taiwan military, the former Chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the former Chief of Staff of the Japan Self-Defense Forces participated the event. In addition, the US and Taiwan held the so-called Defense Industry Forum in Taipei, advocating closer cooperation in weaponry and equipment. What’s your comment?
Jiang Bin: The Taiwan question is purely China’s internal affair, which brooks no external interference. Any action that emboldens the “Taiwan independence” separatist forces to seek secession will undermine cross-Strait peace and stability. Whoever does that is bound to get burnt for playing with fire, and taste the bitter fruit of its own doing. We urge relevant countries to truly abide by the one-China principle, and stop sending any wrong signal to the “Taiwan independence” separatist forces. In front of the prevailing trend of the ultimate andcertain reunification of China, any scheme to solicit foreign support for independence and contain China with Taiwan is doomed to failure.
Source: US Congressional Budget Office
S. 1883 would require the Departments of State, Defense, Treasury, and Commerce, the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, and the Central Intelligence Agency to establish task forces to analyze the cooperation among the foremost adversaries of the United States—namely China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia. Each agency’s task force would report to the Congress on the effects of that cooperation between those adversaries, and on organizational changes needed by the task force’s parent agency to effectively respond. The bill would require those six agencies to submit a joint report to the Congress outlining the strategic approach the United States should take to disrupt the cooperative efforts of those adversaries. Finally, the bill also would require the Director of National Intelligence to report to the Congress on the nature, trajectory, and risks of cooperation among those major adversaries of the United States.
On the basis of information about similar task forces and reporting requirements, CBO estimates that implementing the bill would cost less than $500,000 annually, totaling $1 million over the 2025-2030 period. Such spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.
The CBO staff contact for this estimate is David Rafferty. The estimate was reviewed by Christina Hawley Anthony, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.
Phillip L. Swagel
Director, Congressional Budget Office
Source: US Congressional Budget Office
S. 1883 would require the Departments of State, Defense, Treasury, and Commerce, the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, and the Central Intelligence Agency to establish task forces to analyze the cooperation among the foremost adversaries of the United States—namely China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia. Each agency’s task force would report to the Congress on the effects of that cooperation between those adversaries, and on organizational changes needed by the task force’s parent agency to effectively respond. The bill would require those six agencies to submit a joint report to the Congress outlining the strategic approach the United States should take to disrupt the cooperative efforts of those adversaries. Finally, the bill also would require the Director of National Intelligence to report to the Congress on the nature, trajectory, and risks of cooperation among those major adversaries of the United States.
On the basis of information about similar task forces and reporting requirements, CBO estimates that implementing the bill would cost less than $500,000 annually, totaling $1 million over the 2025-2030 period. Such spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.
The CBO staff contact for this estimate is David Rafferty. The estimate was reviewed by Christina Hawley Anthony, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.
Phillip L. Swagel
Director, Congressional Budget Office
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
LOS ANGELES, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Space Systems Command nominated the Future Operationally Resilient Ground Evolution Command and Control (FORGE C2) team for the John J. Welch, Jr. Excellence in Acquisition Leadership Award at the Department of the Air Force level. This prestigious award recognizes an Air Force team that has made significant improvements and impacts in acquisition leadership over the past year. The FORGE C2 team, with contributors based in El Segundo, CA; Colorado Springs and Boulder, CO; Washington, D.C.; Chantilly and Reston, VA; and North Logan, UT, was recognized for its exceptional innovation, acquisition excellence, and transformative collaboration with industry partners through the Space Enterprise Consortium (SpEC) Other Transaction Authority (OTA), managed by National Security Technology Accelerator (NSTXL).
Tasked with modernizing the command-and-control capabilities for the $20 billion Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR) space enterprise, the FORGE C2 team reimagined the strategic direction of a $5.5 billion C2 weapons system program. Through close integration with more than 54 government and industry stakeholders, the team delivered four rapid prototype solutions that enhanced cybersecurity, automation, and operational responsiveness across two Combatant Commands, achieving a 30% increase in resiliency and automation.
“This recognition of the FORGE C2 team is a powerful testament to what’s possible when government and industry come together to tackle a shared mission,” said Doug Crowe, Senior Vice President of Program Management at NSTXL. “The SpEC OTA empowered the team to move beyond traditional acquisition constraints and drive real innovation with non-traditional defense companies. This award validates how OTAs enable leaders across government and industry to collaborate boldly, think strategically, and—most importantly—deliver faster for the mission.”
A cornerstone of this success was the strategic use of the SpEC OTA, which allowed the team to bypass traditional Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) constraints. By leveraging SpEC, the team reduced procurement timelines by more than a year and onboarded 15 non-traditional defense contractors—opening competition after a decade of single-vendor reliance. This agile model opened doors to cutting-edge commercial solutions and shortened C2 application delivery timelines by more than two years.
Additionally, the team’s streamlined evaluation process cut source selection timelines by two months and has since been adopted as a “gold standard” by the National Security Technology Accelerator (NSTXL), benefiting more than 600 companies and 10 U.S. Space Force Agreements Officers.
NSTXL, which manages SpEC, played a pivotal role in the FORGE C2 team’s success by providing agile acquisition support, industry engagement expertise, and streamlined contracting processes on behalf of SSC. This close partnership enabled the team to rapidly access innovative, non-traditional defense companies and execute an accelerated prototyping strategy that delivered results years ahead of schedule.
This award underscores how innovative acquisition strategies and strong collaboration—enabled by mechanisms like the SpEC OTA—are not only modernizing space defense systems but also redefining how government and industry work together to maintain strategic advantage.
About SpEC
The Space Enterprise Consortium (SpEC) was created in 2017 through the Air Force Space Systems Command to bridge the gap between military buyers, commercial space startups, and small businesses through OTAs. Companies interested in joining the Space Enterprise Consortium can find more information about the organization, including how to join at https://www.space-enterprise.org/.
For media inquiries contact:
press@nstxl.org
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
MIAMI, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gebbia Media – a wholly owned subsidiary of Siebert Financial (NASDAQ: SIEB) – has announced the launch of Tactical Wealth: From Military to Money, a new podcast dedicated to empowering the military and veteran community through candid conversations, practical advice, and inspiring stories from some of the most accomplished, respected, and influential veterans who have successfully navigated life after service.
Hosted by Kaj Larsen, former Navy SEAL, journalist, and entrepreneur, Tactical Wealth highlights veterans who have successfully transitioned from military service to financial success, entrepreneurship, and leadership in civilian life. Each episode provides veterans and service members with tactical lessons to build wealth and lead with impact beyond the uniform.
“This podcast is a mission; it’s about giving the military community, veterans, and their families the tactical knowledge and financial confidence to win after service,” said Kaj Larsen. “We’re shining a light on veterans who have successfully built wealth and impact beyond the uniform and sharing the tactical steps that got them there.”
The launch of the podcast is part of Gebbia Media’s broader strategic content portfolio, which includes a growing roster of original podcasts, documentaries, and factual entertainment. Gebbia Media is focused on telling mission-driven stories across themes such as sports, women’s empowerment, entrepreneurship, among others. Tactical Wealth joins this expanding slate of content that is designed to inform, inspire, and create lasting cultural and financial impact across platforms.
“At Gebbia Media, we’re driven to create content that inspires action and empowers communities. Tactical Wealth is not just a podcast; it’s a valuable resource for veterans and their families to thrive in their next chapter.” Added David Gebbia, CEO of Gebbia Media.
The podcast is sponsored by Siebert.Valor, an initiative from Siebert Financial dedicated to supporting the military community through financial education, career transition resources, and leadership development. This sponsorship reflects a shared commitment to breaking down barriers to financial success for veterans and service members.
A spokesperson from Siebert Financial Corp., emphasized the company’s commitment:
“Through Siebert.Valor, we’re focused on breaking down barriers to financial success for the military community. Partnering with Tactical Wealth allows us to amplify the stories and strategies that can truly make a difference in veterans’ lives.”
The first season of Tactical Wealth features powerful conversations with high-profile guests, including Patrick J. Murphy, the first Iraq War veteran elected to Congress and former Under Secretary of the Army; General Laura Richardson, four-star General and Commander of U.S. Southern Command; Mitch Aguiar, a Navy SEAL veteran, entrepreneur, and MMA fighter, and more. Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other major platforms. New episodes will be released weekly throughout the season.
For more information, please visit: tacticalwealth.transistor.fm
About Gebbia Media
Gebbia Media is an artist-first entertainment company focused on the development and promotion of music and sports talent, catalog acquisition, and bold storytelling across film, television, podcasts, and digital media. As a subsidiary of Siebert Financial Corp. (Nasdaq: SIEB), Gebbia Media also functions as the in-house production and marketing agency for Siebert and its subsidiaries, creating branded content, advertising strategies, and social media campaigns.
Driven by the belief that creativity, raw talent, and commercial acumen can birth extraordinary storytelling, Gebbia Media is building a premier media company rooted in cultural impact and financial strategy. By fusing compelling content with financial infrastructure, the company is redefining how audiences are engaged, enhancing financial literacy, expanding market reach, and unlocking new monetization opportunities across platforms. Gebbia Media’s operations span music, sports, and entertainment, creating powerful synergies between culture and commerce within Siebert’s broader ecosystem. More information is available at www.gebbiamedia.com.
About Siebert Financial Corp.
Siebert is a diversified financial services company and has been a member of the NYSE since 1967, when Muriel Siebert became the first woman to own a seat on the NYSE and the first to head one of its member firms.
Siebert operates through its subsidiaries Muriel Siebert & Co., LLC, Siebert AdvisorNXT, LLC, Park Wilshire Companies, Inc., RISE Financial Services, LLC, Siebert Technologies, LLC, and StockCross Digital Solutions, Ltd, and Gebbia Media LLC. Through these entities, Siebert provides a full range of brokerage and financial advisory services, including securities brokerage; investment banking and capital markets services; investment advisory and insurance offerings; securities lending; corporate stock plan administration solutions; in addition to entertainment and media productions. For over 55 years, Siebert has been a company that values its clients, shareholders, and employees. More information is available at www.siebert.com.
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
The statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts, including statements about our beliefs and expectations, are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include statements preceded by, followed by, or that include the words “may,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “estimate,” “target,” “project,” “intend” and similar words or expressions. In addition, any statements that refer to expectations, projections, or other characterizations of future events or circumstances are forward-looking statements.
These forward-looking statements, which reflect beliefs, objectives, and expectations as of the date hereof, are based on the best judgment of the management of Siebert. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made. Such forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions relating to factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in such statements, including, without limitation, the following: economic, social and political conditions, global economic downturns resulting from extraordinary events; securities industry risks; interest rate risks; liquidity risks; credit risk with clients and counterparties; risk of liability for errors in clearing functions; systemic risk; systems failures, delays and capacity constraints; network security risks; competition; reliance on external service providers; new laws and regulations affecting Siebert’s business; net capital requirements; extensive regulation, regulatory uncertainties and legal matters; failure to maintain relationships with employees, customers, business partners or governmental entities; the inability to achieve synergies or to implement integration plans; and other consequences associated with risks and uncertainties detailed in Part I, Item 1A – Risk Factors of Siebert’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, and Siebert’s filings with the SEC.
Siebert cautions that the foregoing list of factors is not exclusive, and new factors may emerge, or changes to the foregoing factors may occur that could impact its business. Siebert undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise these statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except to the extent required by the federal securities laws.
Media Contact:
Deborah Kostroun, Zito Partners
deborah@zitopartners.com
+1 (201) 403-8185
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
MIAMI, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gebbia Media – a wholly owned subsidiary of Siebert Financial (NASDAQ: SIEB) – has announced the launch of Tactical Wealth: From Military to Money, a new podcast dedicated to empowering the military and veteran community through candid conversations, practical advice, and inspiring stories from some of the most accomplished, respected, and influential veterans who have successfully navigated life after service.
Hosted by Kaj Larsen, former Navy SEAL, journalist, and entrepreneur, Tactical Wealth highlights veterans who have successfully transitioned from military service to financial success, entrepreneurship, and leadership in civilian life. Each episode provides veterans and service members with tactical lessons to build wealth and lead with impact beyond the uniform.
“This podcast is a mission; it’s about giving the military community, veterans, and their families the tactical knowledge and financial confidence to win after service,” said Kaj Larsen. “We’re shining a light on veterans who have successfully built wealth and impact beyond the uniform and sharing the tactical steps that got them there.”
The launch of the podcast is part of Gebbia Media’s broader strategic content portfolio, which includes a growing roster of original podcasts, documentaries, and factual entertainment. Gebbia Media is focused on telling mission-driven stories across themes such as sports, women’s empowerment, entrepreneurship, among others. Tactical Wealth joins this expanding slate of content that is designed to inform, inspire, and create lasting cultural and financial impact across platforms.
“At Gebbia Media, we’re driven to create content that inspires action and empowers communities. Tactical Wealth is not just a podcast; it’s a valuable resource for veterans and their families to thrive in their next chapter.” Added David Gebbia, CEO of Gebbia Media.
The podcast is sponsored by Siebert.Valor, an initiative from Siebert Financial dedicated to supporting the military community through financial education, career transition resources, and leadership development. This sponsorship reflects a shared commitment to breaking down barriers to financial success for veterans and service members.
A spokesperson from Siebert Financial Corp., emphasized the company’s commitment:
“Through Siebert.Valor, we’re focused on breaking down barriers to financial success for the military community. Partnering with Tactical Wealth allows us to amplify the stories and strategies that can truly make a difference in veterans’ lives.”
The first season of Tactical Wealth features powerful conversations with high-profile guests, including Patrick J. Murphy, the first Iraq War veteran elected to Congress and former Under Secretary of the Army; General Laura Richardson, four-star General and Commander of U.S. Southern Command; Mitch Aguiar, a Navy SEAL veteran, entrepreneur, and MMA fighter, and more. Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other major platforms. New episodes will be released weekly throughout the season.
For more information, please visit: tacticalwealth.transistor.fm
About Gebbia Media
Gebbia Media is an artist-first entertainment company focused on the development and promotion of music and sports talent, catalog acquisition, and bold storytelling across film, television, podcasts, and digital media. As a subsidiary of Siebert Financial Corp. (Nasdaq: SIEB), Gebbia Media also functions as the in-house production and marketing agency for Siebert and its subsidiaries, creating branded content, advertising strategies, and social media campaigns.
Driven by the belief that creativity, raw talent, and commercial acumen can birth extraordinary storytelling, Gebbia Media is building a premier media company rooted in cultural impact and financial strategy. By fusing compelling content with financial infrastructure, the company is redefining how audiences are engaged, enhancing financial literacy, expanding market reach, and unlocking new monetization opportunities across platforms. Gebbia Media’s operations span music, sports, and entertainment, creating powerful synergies between culture and commerce within Siebert’s broader ecosystem. More information is available at www.gebbiamedia.com.
About Siebert Financial Corp.
Siebert is a diversified financial services company and has been a member of the NYSE since 1967, when Muriel Siebert became the first woman to own a seat on the NYSE and the first to head one of its member firms.
Siebert operates through its subsidiaries Muriel Siebert & Co., LLC, Siebert AdvisorNXT, LLC, Park Wilshire Companies, Inc., RISE Financial Services, LLC, Siebert Technologies, LLC, and StockCross Digital Solutions, Ltd, and Gebbia Media LLC. Through these entities, Siebert provides a full range of brokerage and financial advisory services, including securities brokerage; investment banking and capital markets services; investment advisory and insurance offerings; securities lending; corporate stock plan administration solutions; in addition to entertainment and media productions. For over 55 years, Siebert has been a company that values its clients, shareholders, and employees. More information is available at www.siebert.com.
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
The statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts, including statements about our beliefs and expectations, are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include statements preceded by, followed by, or that include the words “may,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “estimate,” “target,” “project,” “intend” and similar words or expressions. In addition, any statements that refer to expectations, projections, or other characterizations of future events or circumstances are forward-looking statements.
These forward-looking statements, which reflect beliefs, objectives, and expectations as of the date hereof, are based on the best judgment of the management of Siebert. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made. Such forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions relating to factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in such statements, including, without limitation, the following: economic, social and political conditions, global economic downturns resulting from extraordinary events; securities industry risks; interest rate risks; liquidity risks; credit risk with clients and counterparties; risk of liability for errors in clearing functions; systemic risk; systems failures, delays and capacity constraints; network security risks; competition; reliance on external service providers; new laws and regulations affecting Siebert’s business; net capital requirements; extensive regulation, regulatory uncertainties and legal matters; failure to maintain relationships with employees, customers, business partners or governmental entities; the inability to achieve synergies or to implement integration plans; and other consequences associated with risks and uncertainties detailed in Part I, Item 1A – Risk Factors of Siebert’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, and Siebert’s filings with the SEC.
Siebert cautions that the foregoing list of factors is not exclusive, and new factors may emerge, or changes to the foregoing factors may occur that could impact its business. Siebert undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise these statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except to the extent required by the federal securities laws.
Media Contact:
Deborah Kostroun, Zito Partners
deborah@zitopartners.com
+1 (201) 403-8185
Source: NATO
Increasing transatlantic defence industry production capacity is imperative to meet higher defence investment demand signals and support NATO’s enhanced deterrence and defence effectively.
Multinational capability delivery initiatives are a cost-effective way of acquiring capabilities at speed and scale, which some Allies would not be able to do alone.
This proven and valuable approach is gaining new momentum as Allies work to meet NATO’s newly agreed capability targets.
At the NATO Summit Defence Industry Forum in The Hague on Tuesday (24 June 2025), Allies signed a number of new multinational projects and expanding existing ones. Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Greece, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Sweden, Türkiye and the United Kingdom committed to the joint acquisition, storage, transportation and management of stockpiles of defence critical raw materials, including through recycling existing products.
This High Visibility Project will help facilitate access to a sufficient supply of defence critical raw materials such as lithium, titanium and rare earth materials, which the Allied defence industry requires to deliver the capabilities needed to keep people safe. It will also help make NATO less vulnerable to supply shocks and reduce reliance on external providers. The project supports the implementation of NATO’s Defence Critical Supply Chain Security Roadmap, agreed by NATO Defence Ministers in June 2024.
The Multinational Multi Role Tanker Transport Fleet (MMF) programme also reached a new milestone, with Denmark and Sweden joining this initiative. In addition, the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) signed a contract with Airbus Defence and Space for the acquisition of two additional A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft, raising the current fleet to 12 aircraft. Launched in 2012, the MMF programme is an example of effective NATO-EU collaboration, supported initially by the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR) and currently managed by NSPA. The fleet provides participating nations with critical capabilities in air-to-air refuelling, strategic airlift, and aeromedical evacuation.
Estonia, Finland, Italy, Latvia, the Netherlands and Sweden also broke new ground in supporting the further integration of new technologies in military operations, announcing the establishment of the first NATO Innovation Ranges. These are a key pillar of NATO’s Rapid Adoption Action Plan, which Allied Leaders are expected to endorse at the NATO Summit, and which aims to expedite innovation adoption, leverage new technologies at speed to deliver on capability targets, and increase production capacity through the inclusion of non-traditional suppliers in the defence industrial base. These ranges will enable Allies and NATO to test, refine, and validate new technological products in operationally realistic environments.
The NATO Support and Procurement Organisation (NSPO), NSPA’s governing body, also signed a partnership agreement with Australia. The agreement will allow Australia’s participation in the full range of NSPA activities and services, including, but not limited to, the fields of acquisition, logistics, operational and systems support and services. This is an important milestone in NATO’s cooperation with partners around the globe.
At the signing ceremony, NATO Deputy Secretary General Radmila Shekerinska also praised the conclusion of several new framework contracts by the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) since January 2025, worth 4.7 billion euros, for critical munitions sourced from across the Alliance.
Source: NATO
Increasing transatlantic defence industry production capacity is imperative to meet higher defence investment demand signals and support NATO’s enhanced deterrence and defence effectively.
Multinational capability delivery initiatives are a cost-effective way of acquiring capabilities at speed and scale, which some Allies would not be able to do alone.
This proven and valuable approach is gaining new momentum as Allies work to meet NATO’s newly agreed capability targets.
At the NATO Summit Defence Industry Forum in The Hague on Tuesday (24 June 2025), Allies signed a number of new multinational projects and expanding existing ones. Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Greece, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Sweden, Türkiye and the United Kingdom committed to the joint acquisition, storage, transportation and management of stockpiles of defence critical raw materials, including through recycling existing products.
This High Visibility Project will help facilitate access to a sufficient supply of defence critical raw materials such as lithium, titanium and rare earth materials, which the Allied defence industry requires to deliver the capabilities needed to keep people safe. It will also help make NATO less vulnerable to supply shocks and reduce reliance on external providers. The project supports the implementation of NATO’s Defence Critical Supply Chain Security Roadmap, agreed by NATO Defence Ministers in June 2024.
The Multinational Multi Role Tanker Transport Fleet (MMF) programme also reached a new milestone, with Denmark and Sweden joining this initiative. In addition, the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) signed a contract with Airbus Defence and Space for the acquisition of two additional A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft, raising the current fleet to 12 aircraft. Launched in 2012, the MMF programme is an example of effective NATO-EU collaboration, supported initially by the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR) and currently managed by NSPA. The fleet provides participating nations with critical capabilities in air-to-air refuelling, strategic airlift, and aeromedical evacuation.
Estonia, Finland, Italy, Latvia, the Netherlands and Sweden also broke new ground in supporting the further integration of new technologies in military operations, announcing the establishment of the first NATO Innovation Ranges. These are a key pillar of NATO’s Rapid Adoption Action Plan, which Allied Leaders are expected to endorse at the NATO Summit, and which aims to expedite innovation adoption, leverage new technologies at speed to deliver on capability targets, and increase production capacity through the inclusion of non-traditional suppliers in the defence industrial base. These ranges will enable Allies and NATO to test, refine, and validate new technological products in operationally realistic environments.
The NATO Support and Procurement Organisation (NSPO), NSPA’s governing body, also signed a partnership agreement with Australia. The agreement will allow Australia’s participation in the full range of NSPA activities and services, including, but not limited to, the fields of acquisition, logistics, operational and systems support and services. This is an important milestone in NATO’s cooperation with partners around the globe.
At the signing ceremony, NATO Deputy Secretary General Radmila Shekerinska also praised the conclusion of several new framework contracts by the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) since January 2025, worth 4.7 billion euros, for critical munitions sourced from across the Alliance.
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
OTTAWA, Ontario, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Calian Group Ltd. (TSX: CGY), a mission-critical solutions company focused on defence, space, healthcare and strategic growth critical infrastructure sectors, today announced that Chris Pogue will join the company as President, Defence & Space, effective July 7, 2025. In this newly created role, Pogue will lead a high-performance organization that brings together Calian’s Advanced Technologies and Learning business units—leveraging the synergies of its communications and manufacturing solutions alongside its immersive training and simulation expertise to accelerate mission success for defence and space customers alike.
“Chris Pogue is one of Canada’s most accomplished leaders in defence and space innovation,” said Kevin Ford, CEO of Calian. “His track record—growing Thales Canada’s support of the Canadian Armed Forces, leading MDA Government’s Radarsat Constellation mission and building global simulation-based services—gives him the vision and operational rigor to power Calian’s next-generation defence & space capabilities.”
Pogue brings over 20 years of senior executive experience. He most recently served as President and CEO of Thales Canada, where he expanded naval support services, re-established land-forces capabilities, and guided key AI and digital transformation initiatives. Prior to Thales, he led MDA Government’s Defence Space portfolio and held leadership roles at General Dynamics Mission Systems Canada and CAE Professional Services. Throughout his career, Pogue has championed the development of innovation ecosystems by connecting Canadian small and medium-sized businesses to national defence and space priorities. A retired Royal Canadian Air Force officer with more than 3,500 flight hours on the C-130 Hercules.
“I’m thrilled to join Calian at such a pivotal time—for the company, and for Canada and its allies—as we face increasingly complex global uncertainty and opportunities,” said Pogue. “Bringing together the subject matter experts and leading-edge solutions from Advanced Technologies and Learning allows us to harness our collective strengths, co-innovate with our space and defence partners, and deliver the reliability and precision mission success demands.”
This appointment supports the company’s One Calian 2026 strategy—strengthening its ability to deliver mission critical solutions when failure is not an option. It reinforces Calian’s commitment to innovation, customer success and operational excellence as it scales to meet growing global demand.
About Calian
We keep the world moving forward. Calian® helps people communicate, innovate, learn and lead safe and healthy lives. Every day, our employees live our values of customer commitment, integrity, innovation, respect and teamwork to engineer reliable solutions that solve complex challenges. That’s Confidence. Engineered. A stable and growing 40-year company, we are headquartered in Ottawa with offices and projects spanning North American, European and international markets. Visit calian.com to learn about innovative healthcare, communications, learning and cybersecurity solutions.
Product or service names mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.
Media inquiries:
613-599-8600
Investor Relations inquiries:
DISCLAIMER
Certain information included in this press release is forward-looking and is subject to important risks and uncertainties. The results or events predicted in these statements may differ materially from actual results or events. Such statements are generally accompanied by words such as “intend”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect” or similar statements. Factors which could cause results or events to differ from current expectations include, among other things: the impact of price competition; scarce number of qualified professionals; the impact of rapid technological and market change; loss of business or credit risk with major customers; technical risks on fixed price projects; general industry and market conditions and growth rates; international growth and global economic conditions, and including currency exchange rate fluctuations; and the impact of consolidations in the business services industry. For additional information with respect to certain of these and other factors, please see the Company’s most recent annual report and other reports filed by Calian with the Ontario Securities Commission. Calian disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. No assurance can be given that actual results, performance or achievement expressed in, or implied by, forward-looking statements within this disclosure will occur, or if they do, that any benefits may be derived from them.
Calian · Head Office · 770 Palladium Drive · Ottawa · Ontario · Canada · K2V 1C8
Tel: 613.599.8600 · Fax: 613-592-3664 · General info email: info@calian.com
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
OTTAWA, Ontario, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Calian Group Ltd. (TSX: CGY), a mission-critical solutions company focused on defence, space, healthcare and strategic growth critical infrastructure sectors, today announced that Chris Pogue will join the company as President, Defence & Space, effective July 7, 2025. In this newly created role, Pogue will lead a high-performance organization that brings together Calian’s Advanced Technologies and Learning business units—leveraging the synergies of its communications and manufacturing solutions alongside its immersive training and simulation expertise to accelerate mission success for defence and space customers alike.
“Chris Pogue is one of Canada’s most accomplished leaders in defence and space innovation,” said Kevin Ford, CEO of Calian. “His track record—growing Thales Canada’s support of the Canadian Armed Forces, leading MDA Government’s Radarsat Constellation mission and building global simulation-based services—gives him the vision and operational rigor to power Calian’s next-generation defence & space capabilities.”
Pogue brings over 20 years of senior executive experience. He most recently served as President and CEO of Thales Canada, where he expanded naval support services, re-established land-forces capabilities, and guided key AI and digital transformation initiatives. Prior to Thales, he led MDA Government’s Defence Space portfolio and held leadership roles at General Dynamics Mission Systems Canada and CAE Professional Services. Throughout his career, Pogue has championed the development of innovation ecosystems by connecting Canadian small and medium-sized businesses to national defence and space priorities. A retired Royal Canadian Air Force officer with more than 3,500 flight hours on the C-130 Hercules.
“I’m thrilled to join Calian at such a pivotal time—for the company, and for Canada and its allies—as we face increasingly complex global uncertainty and opportunities,” said Pogue. “Bringing together the subject matter experts and leading-edge solutions from Advanced Technologies and Learning allows us to harness our collective strengths, co-innovate with our space and defence partners, and deliver the reliability and precision mission success demands.”
This appointment supports the company’s One Calian 2026 strategy—strengthening its ability to deliver mission critical solutions when failure is not an option. It reinforces Calian’s commitment to innovation, customer success and operational excellence as it scales to meet growing global demand.
About Calian
We keep the world moving forward. Calian® helps people communicate, innovate, learn and lead safe and healthy lives. Every day, our employees live our values of customer commitment, integrity, innovation, respect and teamwork to engineer reliable solutions that solve complex challenges. That’s Confidence. Engineered. A stable and growing 40-year company, we are headquartered in Ottawa with offices and projects spanning North American, European and international markets. Visit calian.com to learn about innovative healthcare, communications, learning and cybersecurity solutions.
Product or service names mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.
Media inquiries:
613-599-8600
Investor Relations inquiries:
DISCLAIMER
Certain information included in this press release is forward-looking and is subject to important risks and uncertainties. The results or events predicted in these statements may differ materially from actual results or events. Such statements are generally accompanied by words such as “intend”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect” or similar statements. Factors which could cause results or events to differ from current expectations include, among other things: the impact of price competition; scarce number of qualified professionals; the impact of rapid technological and market change; loss of business or credit risk with major customers; technical risks on fixed price projects; general industry and market conditions and growth rates; international growth and global economic conditions, and including currency exchange rate fluctuations; and the impact of consolidations in the business services industry. For additional information with respect to certain of these and other factors, please see the Company’s most recent annual report and other reports filed by Calian with the Ontario Securities Commission. Calian disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. No assurance can be given that actual results, performance or achievement expressed in, or implied by, forward-looking statements within this disclosure will occur, or if they do, that any benefits may be derived from them.
Calian · Head Office · 770 Palladium Drive · Ottawa · Ontario · Canada · K2V 1C8
Tel: 613.599.8600 · Fax: 613-592-3664 · General info email: info@calian.com
June 24 2025 – The volatile developments across the Middle East—culminating in a dramatic US-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Iran—underscore, yet again, a powerful and urgent truth: diversification isn’t optional. It’s a necessity.
Markets around the world have been on a knife’s edge for nearly two weeks, reacting sharply to every twist in the conflict.
Brent crude tumbled nearly 5% after Iran’s missile strike on the Al Udeid air base, interpreted by markets as a restrained signal rather than an escalation.
With confirmation of the ceasefire, European stocks have surged—Germany’s DAX jumped 2%, the French CAC 40 climbed 1.8%, and futures for the S&P 500 in the US are pointing higher. Yet energy stocks have taken a hit as oil prices slide.
Nigel Green, CEO of global financial advisory deVere Group, said the “whiplash” in prices across commodities, equities, and safe-haven assets is not just a response to geopolitics—it’s a “flashing red warning light” for investors with narrow allocations.
“The events of the past two weeks are a textbook case for true portfolio diversification,” he says.
“One day oil is spiking on nuclear fears, the next it’s plunging on de-escalation. Stocks swing wildly depending on headlines out of Tehran or Tel Aviv. You can’t build or preserve wealth if your investment strategy is overly concentrated in one region, sector, or asset class. That’s not a strategy; that’s a gamble.”
As the conflict escalated, oil prices spiked on fears of supply disruption. Brent crude surged above $72 before crashing back to near $68 following signs of restraint and the ceasefire announcement. Defence stocks rallied while Middle East-exposed emerging markets sank. Gold flirted with $2,400 as investors scrambled for safety.
Nigel Green says that for investors, this sequence of events should trigger immediate action.
“Every global investor must ask themselves today: Am I protected against geopolitical shocks? Do I have meaningful exposure to counter-correlated assets? Am I truly diversified across sectors, geographies, currencies, and asset classes?”
He adds: “Diversification doesn’t mean owning five different tech stocks or parking all your money in a single bond fund. It means uncorrelated positions across the risk spectrum—think gold, infrastructure, dividend-paying stocks, green energy, and alternatives like real estate and digital assets.”
Nigel Green also warns that while the ceasefire offers relief, it doesn’t remove risk.
“This truce is fragile. It’s politically brokered and militarily uneasy. One wrong move and tensions could flare again, dragging markets down with them. That’s the danger of relying too heavily on a single narrative or region in your portfolio.”
The deVere CEO notes that while markets may breathe a sigh of relief in the short term, the deeper issue is structural instability in a critical region for energy, security, and global trade routes.
“The Middle East remains a geopolitical powder keg, and history tells us that calm doesn’t last.
“What does last is a properly diversified portfolio, one that absorbs these shocks without falling apart.”
With global equities rallying and oil prices sliding, some investors may be tempted to lean back into familiar strategies. Nigel Green says this would be a critical mistake.
“When markets are jittery, many investors double down on what they know—often increasing risk without realising it. What’s needed now is a measured, deliberate shift into broader exposure.”
He concludes: “You diversify when the skies are clear, so that you’re protected when the storm breaks.
“But after what we’ve just seen in the Middle East, the need for real diversification isn’t hypothetical, it’s immediate.”
deVere Group is one of the world’s largest independent advisors of specialist global financial solutions to international, local mass affluent, and high-net-worth clients. It has a network of offices around the world, more than 80,000 clients, and $14bn under advisement.
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
VIENNA, Va., June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Castellum, Inc. (the “Company” and “Castellum”) (NYSE-American: CTM), a cybersecurity, electronic warfare, and software services and solutions company focused on the federal government, today announced the creation of a new wholly owned subsidiary, Castellum Advanced Technology Products, Inc. (“CATP”).
CATP will focus on teaming with other leading-edge technology companies, developing technology internally, and potentially taking equity positions in companies that have advanced technology, which Castellum’s Department of Defense customers could use.
“Fully and timely leveraging advanced technology is the key to success on the 21st-century battlefield,” said Glen Ives, Chief Executive Officer of Castellum. “While we will continue to provide technology-enabled services to our government clients, today’s announcement represents a meaningful broadening of Castellum’s strategy for supporting the Department of Defense. We believe that having greater control over some of the key products our customers need will enable us to provide better overall solutions for the warfighter. Financially, we believe that we can increase both our revenue and our operating margins by adding more value and solving our customers’ most challenging problems. This important step reinforces our priority, focus, and commitment to constantly strengthen and enhance our organic growth capabilities.”
About Castellum, Inc. (NYSE-American: CTM):
Castellum, Inc. (NYSE-American: CTM) is a cybersecurity, electronic warfare, and software engineering services company focused on the federal government – https://castellumus.com/.
Forward-Looking Statements:
This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain, based on current expectations and assumptions concerning future events or future performance of the company. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which are only predictions and speak only as of the date hereof. Words such as “will,” “would,” “believe,” and “expects,” and similar language or phrasing are indicative of forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are outside of the Company’s control, that could cause actual results to differ (sometimes materially) from the results expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements, including, among others: the Company’s ability to effectively integrate and grow its acquired companies; its ability to identify additional acquisition targets and close additional acquisitions; the impact on the Company’s revenue due to a delay in the U.S. Congress approving a federal budget, operating under a prolonged continuing resolution, government shutdown, or breach of the debt ceiling, as well as the imposition by the U.S. government of sequestration in the absence of an approved budget; the ability of the U.S. federal government to unilaterally cancel a contract with or without cause, and more specifically, the potential impact of the U.S. DOGE Service Temporary Organization on government spending and terminating contracts for convenience. In evaluating such statements, prospective investors should review carefully various risks and uncertainties identified in Item 1A. “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s recently filed Form 10-Q, Item 1A. “Risk Factors” in the Company’s most recent Form 10-K, and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission which can be viewed at www.sec.gov. These risks and uncertainties, or not closing the described potential equity financing in this press release, could cause the Company’s actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Except to the extent required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, a change in events, conditions, circumstances or assumptions underlying such statements, or otherwise.
Contact:
Glen Ives
President and Chief Executive Officer
Phone: (703) 752-6157
info@castellumus.com
https://castellumus.com
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/12cff6dc-d18b-4810-9020-5e7bab268788
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
BEIJING, June 24 (Xinhua) — Domestic military equipment in active service with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) will be on display at a military parade scheduled to be held in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square on Sept. 3, a military officer said at a press conference Tuesday.
On September 3, China will hold a military parade in Tiananmen Square in central Beijing to mark the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War.
The military parade will feature foot columns, military equipment columns and air echelons. It will feature new types of combat forces, including unmanned intelligent technology.
Major General Wu Zeke of the Joint Staff of the Central Military Commission (CMC) said the formations to be displayed at the military parade will clearly demonstrate the restructured composition of China’s armed forces as a result of recent military reforms.
According to him, the columns of military equipment at the military parade will demonstrate China’s latest achievements in the development of the military equipment system.
The military parade will reflect the new model of using PLA forces – unified command, coordinated operations and comprehensive support, as well as the country’s ability to independently innovate in weapons, the major general added.
The air echelons will highlight the systematic development of China’s air force combat capabilities and the rapid progress of modern strike power, Wu Zeke noted. -0-
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
BEIJING, June 24 (Xinhua) — Chinese troops with experience in UN peacekeeping will take part in a military parade on Sept. 3 to mark the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, Wu Zeke, a spokesman for the Joint Staff of the Central Military Commission, told a press conference on Tuesday.
The decision not only underscores the solemnity of China’s celebration of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, but also demonstrates the country’s commitment to fulfilling its international obligations and safeguarding world peace, Wu Zeke said.
He noted that in the 35 years since China joined UN peacekeeping operations, the Chinese military has sent more than 50,000 peacekeepers to more than 20 countries and regions around the world, carrying out 26 UN peacekeeping missions. A total of 17 Chinese servicemen have given their lives for world peace, he added.
According to Wu Zeke, Chinese peacekeepers have always demonstrated courage and professionalism in the face of armed conflicts, pandemic outbreaks or natural disasters, faithfully carrying out their missions to safeguard peace and stability – from demining and ceasefire monitoring to escorting and conducting emergency rescue operations.
“The Chinese armed forces have always been a strong force fighting for world peace,” he concluded. -0-
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
Tensions in the Middle East escalated dramatically following a series of devastating air attacks exchanged between Israel and Iran, triggered by a direct U.S. military strike on three of Iran’s major nuclear facilities. Explosions shook Tehran as Israel launched coordinated assaults on government and military installations across Iran. In retaliation, Iran fired multiple waves of missiles and drones into Israeli territory, with strikes reported in several cities.
As part of its sweeping offensive, the Israeli Defense Forces targeted the entrance of Tehran’s Evin Prison—a high-security facility known for housing political prisoners, dual nationals, and regime critics—signaling an expansion of Israeli objectives beyond strictly military targets.
Amid the intensifying crisis, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf declared that the legislature is weighing legislation to suspend all cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Qalibaf insisted Iran remains committed to peaceful nuclear activity but criticized the agency’s alleged politicization and failure to uphold its professional commitments. He warned that continued non-compliance by the IAEA could force Iran to withdraw entirely from cooperation.
The conflict’s ripple effects spread across the region, prompting major energy companies operating in Iraq—such as Eni, BP, and Total Energies—to begin emergency evacuations of foreign personnel, according to Iraq’s state-run Basra Oil Company. Meanwhile, the U.S. Embassy in Qatar issued an urgent advisory instructing American citizens to stay indoors until further notice, citing the ongoing hostilities and U.S. air operations against Iranian nuclear infrastructure.
In Vienna, Rafael Grossi, Director General of the IAEA, convened an emergency session of the agency’s Board of Governors to address the unfolding situation. He urged Iran to restore full IAEA access to nuclear facilities, particularly to monitor enriched uranium stockpiles. Grossi confirmed that Iran’s key sites at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan were struck by cruise missiles and ground-penetrating munitions. While no abnormal radiation levels have been detected off-site, he emphasized the urgency of negotiations and a return to technical oversight. IAEA inspectors remain in Iran and are prepared to resume their duties, he said.
Grossi’s call for restraint and transparency came as Tehran signaled its intent to limit cooperation with the agency unless provided with credible assurances regarding the IAEA’s impartial conduct.
As diplomatic efforts intensified, Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Moscow. Expressing firm support for Iran, Putin condemned the U.S. and Israeli strikes as an “unprovoked act of aggression” and reiterated Russia’s strategic alliance with Tehran. He noted ongoing consultations with U.S. President Donald Trump, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, UAE President Mohammed Al Nahyan, and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.
During the meeting, Araghchi denounced the attacks on Iran’s facilities as violations of international law and expressed gratitude for Russia’s steadfast position. Both sides affirmed their commitment to maintaining close coordination as the regional crisis continues to unfold.