NewzIntel.com

Category: Natural Disasters

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Flood protection measures versus nature conservation – E-000813/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The Habitats Directive[1] in its Article 6(3) and 6(4) provides a clear and flexible procedure to address potential conflicts, applicable also in cases between flood protection and nature conservation needs[2]. Article 6(4) allows plans and projects with significant negative effects on a site to proceed for imperative reasons of overriding public interest , in the absence of alternative solutions and if compensatory measures are taken. This can typically apply to flood protection measures that relate to human health or public safety which are explicitly mentioned in Article 6(4), second paragraph.

    2. The Commission does not plan to amend the Habitats Directive beyond the current proposal to align the annexes to the amendment of the Bern Convention[3]. Regarding compensatory measures for impacts on Natura 2000 sites in the context of application of Article 6(4) of the directive, it is the national competent authority which decides on the need and character of such measures. The German authorities have a long-standing experience with successfully applying exemptions for flood protection measures[4]. The implementation of these flood protection measures shows the feasibility of such measures and the flexibility of the Habitats Directive.

    • [1] Directive 92/43/EEC on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora, OJ L 206, 22.7.1992, p. 7-50.
    • [2] The provisions of Article 6 of the ‘Habitats’ Directive: https://op.europa.eu/en/publication-detail/-/publication/11e4ee91-2a8a-11e9-8d04-01aa75ed71a1
    • [3] COM(2025)106 final: https://environment.ec.europa.eu/document/8ec6689c-a7d8-422e-829d-c4231fc32872_en
    • [4] The Commission has been notified pursuant to Art 6(4) about the following protective dykes, among others: Strengthening of the Rhine flood dyke/right side of the Murg dam (responsible authority: Raststatt/Baden-Württemberg State Council Office), Strengthening and reinforcement of the right-hand Elbe dyke near Fischbeck (responsible authority: district of Stendal/Saxony-Anhalt), Raising and strengthening of the Emden harbour dyke (responsible authority: Lower Saxony State Agency for Water Management, Coastal Defence and Nature Conservation/Lower Saxony).
    Last updated: 29 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – PFAS chemicals dumped in Ukraine – E-000767/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission has not received any evidence related to the claims of illegal dumping, which could substantiate possible intervention. Nonetheless, the EU is working on addressing the issue of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) through a comprehensive set of actions.

    Certain PFAS are already regulated under the Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) Regulation[1] and the regulation on Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH)[2].

    The export of fire-fighting foams containing perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) and perfluorohexanesulfonic acid (PFHxS) or perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is banned according to the Stockholm Convention[3] and the export ban is implemented in EU legislation as per Article 15(2) and Annex V Part 1 of Regulation (EU) No 649/2012[4].

    A proposal to restrict PFAS in all firefighting foams has been published for discussion with Member States[5] and adoption is expected by the end of 2025[6].

    The Commission is committed to providing long-term support to Ukraine in its efforts to align with EU environmental and health standards, including the management of chemicals.

    This includes assistance in approximating Ukraine’s chemicals legislation to the EU’s Regulation for the Classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures[7] and to REACH, which introduce modern approaches to chemical safety and management.

    Ukraine has access to funding and assistance through the Ukraine Facility[8] and other mechanisms, which target post-war reconstruction needs[9], including bilateral cooperation with EU Member States[10].

    This support aims to help Ukraine react to the environmental and health incurred damage, particularly in the context of the ongoing Russian military aggression.

    • [1] Regulation (EU) 2019/1021 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 June 2019 on persistent organic pollutants (recast), OJ L 169, 25.6.2019, p. 45-77.
    • [2] Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 December 2006 concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH), establishing a European Chemicals Agency, amending Directive 1999/45/EC and repealing Council Regulation (EEC) No 793/93 and Commission Regulation (EC) No 1488/94 as well as Council Directive 76/769/EEC and Commission Directives 91/155/EEC, 93/67/EEC, 93/105/EC and 2000/21/EC, OJ L 396, 30.12.2006.
    • [3] Article 3 and Annex A.
    • [4] Regulation (EU) No 649/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 4 July 2012 concerning the export and import of hazardous chemicals (recast), OJ L 201, 27.7.2012, p. 60-106.
    • [5] in November 2024.
    • [6] https://ec.europa.eu/transparency/comitology-register/screen/documents/102503/1/consult?lang=en
    • [7] Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 December 2008 on classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures, amending and repealing Directives 67/548/EEC and 1999/45/EC, and amending Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006, OJ L 353, 31.12.2008, p. 1-1355.
    • [8] https://enlargement.ec.europa.eu/funding-and-technical-assistance/ukraine-facility_en
    • [9] Including hazardous waste management, capacity building, and other aspects of safe chemical management.
    • [10] For example, a cooperation between the Swedish Chemicals Agency and Ukraine on EU chemicals legislation, on reduction of negative effects of chemicals on health and the environment and conditions for the free movement of goods.
    Last updated: 29 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Depot Darpan portal & mobile application to ensure Food Storage depots meet highest quality & performance standards

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 MAY 2025 1:41PM by PIB Delhi

    The Department of Food and Public Distribution (DFPD), Government of India, ensures food security for over 80 crore beneficiaries through scientific warehousing and smart storage solutions for food grains.

    DFPD is now envisaging the Depot Darpan portal and mobile application with the objective to ensure that the Food Storage depots meet the highest quality and performance standards. It enables Depot managers to evaluate infrastructure, operational and financial performance on a near real-time basis

    Depot Managers upload geo-tagged inputs of the infrastructure available in their depot, generating automated ratings and action points for timely improvements. The system ensures 100% validation by the supervisory officers and random third-party audits.

    The warehouses are assessed based on two main categories:

    • Infrastructural aspects which include safety standards, storage conditions, environmental, technology adoption and statutory parameters.
    • Operational efficiency aspects which include stock turnover, losses, space utilization, manpower expenses, and profitability.

    Each category is evaluated independently, and the warehouse receives a Star rating based on the composite scoring from both parameters.

    Depot Darpan is uniquely integrated with smart warehousing technologies, creating a seamless digital monitoring ecosystem that includes: CCTV Surveillance and IoT sensors, monitoring key parameters such as CO₂ & Phosphine levels, fire hazards, humidity, unauthorized entry and temperature in real time thereby, ensuring security and efficiency in food grain storage.

    The IoT-Enabled Monitoring includes:

    1. Ambient sensor – Temperature and relative humidity to monitor grain moisture and temperature
    2. Carbon dioxide (CO2) – To monitor and indicate potential grain infestation
    3. Phosphine gas sensor – Ensures occupational safety for workers through early warning to prevent exposure to toxic gas levels Detects fumigation leakages, increasing effectiveness of treatment
    4. Gate Shutter sensor – Detection of unauthorized door access. – Alerts for unauthorized door openings outside designated hours. Monitors door status during fumigation processes. Ensures proper ventilation by tracking door openings as required.
    5. Fire/smoke sensor- Provides early warning to prevent fire-related damage and ensure safety.

    In addition, AI based technology for bag counting, ANPR (Automatic Number plate Recognition) for vehicle identification and tracking, and Face Recognition technology (FRS) for access control and security are also deployed in warehouses on pilot basis.

    A total of around 2278 warehouses including those owned by FCI & CWC and that hired from State agencies/ private will be onboarded in this digital initiative.

    Depot Darpan mobile app allows supervisory officials to track warehouse performance anytime, anywhere, supporting better decision making. Automated reports are used in regular reviews, leading to continuous and seamless improvements in infrastructure and efficiency.

    Depot Darpan, a mirror of warehousing excellence, ensures improved warehousing and greater operational efficiency in the public distribution system and reinforces the commitment to the nation’s food security with every grain scientifically stored.

    Depot Darpan portal and mobile application shall be formally inaugurated by Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution and New and Renewable Energy on 20th May, 2025.

    ******

    Abhishek Dayal/Nihi Sharma

    (Release ID: 2125724) Visitor Counter : 88

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WATCH: Padilla Holds Floor Block to Push Back Against Trump Attacks on Election Integrity and Republicans’ SAVE Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    WATCH: Padilla Holds Floor Block to Push Back Against Trump Attacks on Election Integrity and Republicans’ SAVE Act

    WATCH: Padilla: “I will keep leading the fight to stop this cynical and dangerous bill — and to stop Trump and Republican attempts to undermine our voting rights”WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration and California’s former Secretary of State, and Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Government, held the Senate floor alongside their Democratic colleagues to speak out against President Trump and Republicans’ ongoing attacks on election integrity and led the charge calling for sufficient federal funding for election security. As Donald Trump marks 100 disastrous days in office, the floor block focused on Congressional Republicans’ Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act that recently passed the House of Representatives and Trump’s illegal anti-voter executive order, both of which threaten to disenfranchise millions of eligible American citizens.
    Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Senators Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), and Peter Welch (D-Vt.) also joined today’s floor block. Video of Senator Padilla’s remarks is available here, and the floor block can be viewed in its entirety here.
    “I’ve seen firsthand not just for the last four years, but for the last eight, nine years, the growing threats to our democracy and the threats to the public confidence in our elections. Because sadly, the truth in the year 2025 is that it’s not just foreign actors trying to undermine our elections and the people’s confidence in the elections — it’s also so many Republican officials here at home.”
    “In state legislatures, in the Capitol, in the Oval Office, radical Republicans are working hard, actively working hard, to make it harder for eligible Americans to exercise their Constitutional right to vote. We see it in the endless lies and conspiracy theories about ‘massive voter fraud.’ We see it in the new barriers being erected that would make it harder for eligible Americans to simply register to vote. And we see it in the Trump Administration’s firing of the hardworking and dedicated security officials who are tasked with protecting our elections.”
    Padilla highlighted the rising threats against election workers, including Republican clerk Tina Barton in Rochester Hills, Michigan, who received an anonymous phone call threatening her life after the 2020 election. He emphasized that Trump’s Big Lie falsely claiming the 2020 election was stolen has put election workers in significant danger. Trump’s efforts in his second Administration to dismantle the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency’s (CISA) election security work have further undermined the security of our free and fair elections.
    “For her dedication and hard work and professionalism, one week after the 2020 election, Tina received an anonymous phone call — not a phone call thanking her for her service, but a phone call threatening her life. The voice on the other end threatened to come after her family, to hold a knife to her throat, and to kill her.”
    “For as shocking as threats like that may be, Tina represents just one, the one in every three election workers who has reported receiving threats, harassment, and abuse. So for Tina, and so many others, that harassment grew worse with every lie spread by the Trump campaign about a so-called ‘stolen election’ — with threats against election officials continuing in subsequent elections.”
    “For those selfless election workers, Donald Trump hasn’t even tried to lower the temperature of political rhetoric or combat the disinformation that leads to the threats and harassment. Instead, he’s actually actively made it worse for those administering elections. Think of all the election workers and all the volunteers, volunteers who work polling places to help our elections and our democracy thrive. He’s made it worse for voters: he’s fired federal workers who combat election misinformation and disinformation. … By failing to counter, by failing to elevate the truth, Republicans in Congress have become complicit, as they just sit back instead of pushing back.”
    Padilla emphasized that several Republicans stood up to Trump’s attacks on American democracy during the first Trump Administration, yet many have done nothing to stand up to his anti-voter executive order while instead advancing the SAVE Act. While Padilla was California’s Secretary of State, the first Trump Administration created a commission to investigate unfounded claims of “voter fraud,” demanding states provide sensitive, private voter information from every state. Forty-four states — Republican and Democratic — rejected Trump’s reckless demands.
    Now, however, Republicans are trying to move forward their “un-American” SAVE Act. The SAVE Act threatens to disenfranchise millions of eligible American voters by creating overly burdensome documentation requirements, which would make registration harder for new voters, married women, rural voters, servicemembers abroad, and the tens of millions of Americans who register to vote online or by mail.
    Padilla stressed that voting by noncitizens is already a federal crime and is incredibly rare, reiterating that the bill is “based on a lie” in effort to disenfranchise Americans. A review of the 2016 general election found that only 0.0001 percent of votes came from improper noncitizen voting among the jurisdictions reviewed.
    “You can imagine my disappointment when, fast forward to this past March, Trump announced yet another anti-voter executive order that would empower DOGE to access sensitive voter data, very reminiscent of their requests from their first term, now on steroids. And what did so many of our Republican colleagues here in the Senate and the House of Representatives say? Nothing.”
    “But it’s not just that Republicans have gone silent — they’ve actually become Trump’s enablers here in Congress by forgoing their responsibility to serve as a check and balance on the executive branch. Now, any day now here in the Senate, we could see Republicans take up the SAVE Act, a measure that recently passed the House of Representatives, a bill that I should say scapegoats immigrants simply to justify new barriers to voter registration.”
    “If Republicans were to have their way, American citizens, American citizens, will feel the impacts of the SAVE Act. From the active duty servicemember who has to move for a new deployment and has to work so much harder than they should have to to update their registration with their new address at the local elections office who could be hours and hours from the base where they’re assigned. Think of a married woman who chose to change her last name when she got married and now the… name listed on the birth certificate and the name on their ID no longer match and have… hurdles to jump over simply to register to vote.”
    Padilla concluded his speech by vowing to fight to prevent the SAVE Act’s passage in the Senate.
    “Here in the Senate, I want people to know that together with my Senate Democratic colleagues, I will do whatever it takes to kill this bill, to stop it from passing, to keep it from even coming up if we can. Because we owe it to our constituents to fight every executive order that undermines our democracy, and to keep demanding answers on the firing of federal workers entrusted with safeguarding our elections.”
    “So over the course of the next hour, Senate Democrats will lay down a marker. We will stand strong against a rising tide of attacks on our democracy. And I will keep leading the fight to stop this cynical and dangerous bill — and to stop Trump and Republican attempts to undermine our voting rights.”
    Senator Padilla has led the charge opposing President Trump and Republicans’ reckless attempts to restrict the right to vote. Earlier this month, Padilla warned Secretaries of State, Lieutenant Governors, and Chief Election Officials across the country of the devastating potential impacts of Republicans’ SAVE Act, concerns that have been echoed by top election officials across the country. Padilla also led 11 Senators in introducing the Defending America’s Future Elections Act to repeal Trump’s illegal anti-voter executive order and prevent the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) from accessing sensitive voter registration data and state records. Padilla previously led 14 Democratic Senators in calling on Trump to revoke his illegal anti-voter executive order and issued a statement slamming the order when it was announced.
    Padilla and Representative Joe Morelle (N.Y.-25) have also pennedthreeletters to CISA leadership regarding the agency’s firings of election security workers and termination of election security-focused efforts.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: May is Mental Health Awareness Month: Coping Before, During, and After Disasters

    Source: US State of Oregon

    strong>SALEM, OR—Disasters don’t just impact physical safety; they take a significant toll on mental health. As communities across Oregon observe Mental Health Awareness Month this May, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management is encouraging individuals, responders, and communities to prioritize emotional well-being before, during, and after emergencies.

    The Hidden Toll of Disasters

    Hurricanes, wildfires, pandemics, and other crises disrupt lives in unexpected ways. Survivors may experience anxiety, depression, grief, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Vulnerable populations, including children and older adults, often struggle the most. Meanwhile, first responders face cumulative stress, increasing the risk of burnout and secondary trauma.

    Overcoming Barriers to Mental Health Support

    Seeking help in times of crisis is not always easy. Common obstacles include:

    • Limited awareness of available mental health resources
    • Stigma surrounding mental health conversations
    • Overburdened healthcare systems struggling to meet increased demand
    • Access issues in rural or underserved areas

    For those displaced by disasters, housing instability and financial stress can compound emotional distress. Recognizing and addressing these challenges is key to improving mental health outcomes.

    Building Resilience Through Preparedness

    While disasters cannot always be prevented, individuals can take proactive steps to mitigate their mental health impact:

    • Emergency Preparedness: Creating a disaster plan and keeping emergency supplies ready can alleviate anxiety. Learn more about how to be prepared on the Be2Weeks Ready webpage.
    • Strengthening social bonds: Community support systems play a crucial role in recovery. Joining a Community Response Team (CERT), becoming a Be2Weeks Ready coordinator, joining a Search and Rescue Team can help you feel less lonely.
    • Equipping responders: Training first responders in mental health care enhances their ability to support themselves and others.

    Accessing Mental Health Resources

    The Disaster Distress Helpline (1-800-985-5990), 988 Lifeline, local emergency management agencies, and organizations like the Red Cross provide crisis counseling and mental health assistance during and after emergencies. Telehealth services are increasingly bridging gaps for those in remote areas. For instance, the AgriStress Hotline serves those in the farming, ranching, fisheries and forestry communities. Call 833-897-2474 or visit their website.

    In addition, Oregon’s 211 Info webpage and hotline includes information on both physical safety and mental health resources to ensure residents can access the support they need. You can find more resources and support lines on the Oregon Health Authority’s Crisis Lines webpage.

    Breaking the Stigma

    Mental health conversations need to be normalized, especially during disasters. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Community storytelling and shared experiences of resilience can empower others to seek assistance and prioritize their emotional well-being. By embracing and sharing your experiences, you empower others to do the same.

    As part of National Mental Health Awareness Month, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is encouraging people to share their stories. You can use their list of questions to begin the discussion, and (if you want) you can share your mental health story with NAMI by sending in a video, a message, a quote, or using #MyMentalHealth on social media or submitting your story on the NAMI website.

    NAMI Sample questions to start sharing your story:

    • What do you wish people knew about mental health?
    • What misconceptions about mental health do you encounter in your work?
    • What have you learned on your mental health journey?
    • How does your mental health impact how you show up within your community?
    • What do you share with your friends or family in moments when they need support?
    • How do you help reduce stigma surrounding mental health?
    • In one word, how would you describe your mental health journey?
    • What inspires you to support mental health in your life, work, or community?
    • What motivates you to be an ally in the mental health movement?

    Hope in Recovery

    While disasters present significant challenges, recovery is possible. Investing in mental health resources, reducing stigma, and fostering connected communities can lead to stronger, healthier futures.

    For anyone struggling after a disaster, help is available. Whether through a friend, hotline, or professional counselor, reaching out is the first step toward healing.

    Additional Resources

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC May 1, 2025 0100 UTC Day 1 Convective Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    SPC AC 010058

    Day 1 Convective Outlook
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    0758 PM CDT Wed Apr 30 2025

    Valid 010100Z – 011200Z

    …THERE IS A SLIGHT RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS TONIGHT ACROSS
    PARTS OF SRN AND ERN TX…NRN LA…ERN AR…NWRN MS…WRN TN…SERN
    MO…SRN IL AND SRN IN…

    …SUMMARY…
    The risk for strong to severe thunderstorm development may continue
    into late evening across parts of the southeastern Great Plains into
    Mid South and lower Ohio Valley, before waning overnight.

    …01Z Update…
    A notable mid-level short wave trough emerging from the Southwest
    has reached the southern Great Plains and is forecast to pivot
    northeastward toward the middle Mississippi Valley overnight,
    downstream of similar amplitude trough digging across the
    Canadian/U.S. border. The lead perturbation has been preceded by
    extensive convection the past day or two across the southern Great
    Plains, which has substantially stabilized the boundary layer across
    much of north Texas and Oklahoma.

    The leading edge of the convective outflow has remained a focus for
    vigorous thunderstorm development. While this boundary may be
    slowing or gradually stalling south of Longview and Temple TX, 3-4+
    mb 2-hourly surface pressure rises are now evident in 00Z surface
    observations in a corridor across the Shreveport LA, El Dorado and
    Little Rock AR vicinities, with more modest falls (1-1.5 mb
    2-hourly) at Memphis TN and Walnut Ridge AR. Based on this, it
    appears that the gust front will advance eastward across the
    Mississippi River through late evening. As it does, it may continue
    to be accompanied by gusts approaching or briefly exceeding severe
    limits, but less unstable updraft inflow probably will gradually
    contribute to weakening convective trends.

    It does appear that at least a modest surface low is in the process
    of forming downstream of the lead short wave trough, across
    southwestern Missouri. As this feature migrates northeastward
    tonight, models indicate that a belt of 30-35+ kt southerly flow
    around 850 mb, now extending across southeastern Texas through the
    Mid South, will shift across the lower Ohio Valley toward the lower
    Great Lakes region. Despite the strengthening wind fields and
    shear, ongoing thunderstorm development near a surface warm front,
    east-northeast of St Louis toward the Cincinnati area, is not
    expected to undergo substantive further intensification, and
    probably will begin to wane as the boundary-layer stabilizes with
    the loss of heating, and better low-level moisture return becomes
    cut off by the progression of the convective outflow to the south.

    Across Texas, weakening wind fields/shear and forcing for ascent
    probably will lead to weakening convective trends by late evening,
    as the boundary-layer stabilizes with the loss of daytime heating.

    ..Kerr.. 05/01/2025

    CLICK TO GET WUUS01 PTSDY1 PRODUCT

    NOTE: THE NEXT DAY 1 OUTLOOK IS SCHEDULED BY 0600Z

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Pest eradication to remove wallabies and possums from Kawau Island gets under way

    Source: Auckland Council

    Auckland Council has been working with landowners and residents on an operation to restore native forest on Kawau Island by removing wallabies and possums. After years of planning and preparation, the first stage of the project, Working towards a pest-free Kawau Island, is now under way.

    The project is a ground-based operation, primarily carried out by hunters, trained indicator dogs and thermal drones. Subject to permit approval and necessity, targeted toxins are proposed to be used in a second phase of the project to support hunting in areas where monitoring has revealed a high number of wallabies and possums.  

    The first stage will begin at the southern end of the island, targeting pest populations in that area before moving to the northern side. The entire programme is expected to take 18 months, with monitoring continuing for a further six months.

    From 1 May 2025, hunting will start in the public conservation land of Kawau Island Historic Reserve and nearby private properties (block 1 in the map below), targeting wallabies and possums.

    A map of Kawau Island showing the treatment areas.

    Towards a pest-free Kawau Island

    The complete removal of pest animal species, starting with wallabies and possums, will make Kawau Island one of the largest inhabited pest-free islands in New Zealand –and a legacy for generations to come.

    This collaborative environmental programme is part of the Auckland Regional Pest Management Plan 2020-2030, and works with, and builds on, the Pohutukawa Trust’s conservation efforts by seeking to eradicate mammalian pest species from Kawau Island to benefit nature, residents and visitors.

    Auckland Council is working in partnership with Manuhiri Kaitiaki Charitable Trust, Department of Conservation, a ground-based delivery consortium led by Island Conservation, as well as actively engaging the island’s community to achieve a pest animal-free Kawau Island.

    The project is collaboratively funded, thanks to Predator Free 2050 Ltd, Auckland Council (through the Natural Environment Targeted Rate), the Ministry for Primary Industries (through the Tipu Mātoro National Wallaby Eradication Programme), Department of Conservation and the Kawau community.

    “This project wouldn’t be possible without our project funders, including landowners and residents of the island. We’ve seen generous donations and pledges through the New Zealand Nature Fund by the Kawau Island community. We know landowners, residents and those who frequent Kawau Island are invested in this project, the decisions we make and the outcomes,” says Samantha Hill, Auckland Council General Manager, Environmental Services.

    “We will continue to engage with user groups, landowners, occupiers and stakeholders about the operation. We are also working closely with our iwi partner, Ngāti Manuhiri and agencies like the Department of Conservation and the Ministry of Health.”

    The impact of introduced pest animals

    A large island, Kawau has an extensive canopy of native forest. It is home to threatened and at-risk indigenous species including the North Island weka, kororā/little blue penguin and pāteke/brown teal, as well as many other species of shore and forest birds, including the North Island brown kiwi and kākā.

    “Browsing species like possums and wallabies put pressure on our forests which, if left unmanaged, can lead to long-term damage and changes to the natural environment. This is especially evident on Kawau Island, where the selective browsing of wallabies and possums has changed the forest composition, increased fire risk and destroyed potential habitats and food sources for indigenous species,” explains Samantha Hill.“

    “Additionally, Kawau Island continues to be the only place where wallabies are found in Tāmaki Makaurau and their continued presence is a biosecurity risk to primary industry and the natural environment in mainland Auckland and Northland,” she says.

    “A successful programme will enable the forest to recover, potentially attracting new species from nearby pest-free islands and sanctuaries. It will also allow us to preserve habitats for threatened and at-risk species that make Kawau unique.”

    Important information

    • Stage one of the programme begins on 1 May and involves hunting.
    • Residents and visitors to the island should follow all warning signage.

    Signage will be in place during the operation and will remain for the duration of the caution period. For more information on the Working towards a pest-free Kawau Island project, including FAQs and further factsheets, please visit the project website or phone us on 09 301 0101. To support this project and ongoing conservation efforts, visit New Zealand Nature Fund.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Pacific enforcement agencies welcome new detector dog teams

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police Commissioner Richard Chambers has acknowledged nine new Detector Dog Handlers and their dogs from across the Pacific and New Zealand who graduated at the Dog Training Centre in Trentham this afternoon.

    The teams celebrated the occasion in front of whānau and friends, executives from New Zealand Police with officials from the New Zealand Customs Service, Aviation Security Service New Zealand, and New Caledonia Customs.

    Commissioner Chambers, who is currently in the Pacific meeting local police leaders, congratulated them all on their achievements.

    “Our New Zealand and Pacific Detector Dog teams play a crucial role in all kinds of policing, at our borders and within our communities.

    “They are remarkable at what they do in detecting cash, firearms, and narcotics and some detecting explosives.

    “These graduates have worked hard to obtain this operational qualification, and they’ll keep learning and developing with experience and time on the street and at their borders.”

    Today’s graduates are from Customs agencies in New Zealand, Samoa, New Caledonia, and Fiji with one dog team bound for New Zealand’s Aviation Security Service.

    The police graduates are from New Zealand, Tonga and for the first time ever, a policewoman has graduated as a dog-handler from the Fiji Police Force.

    They will be welcomed into their various roles in the Pacific, and around New Zealand, very shortly,” says Commissioner Chambers.

    Customs Deputy Chief Executive International and Governance, Joe Cannon, highlighted the importance of this long-running Pacific Detector Dog Programme and its role in building ongoing enforcement capability in the Pacific region.

    “Detector dogs are a valuable enforcement tool in combating transnational and serious and organised crime syndicates who continue to target Pacific countries.  We know that where there are illicit goods, there is criminal activity – and detector dogs are trained to help track them down.

    “For us in New Zealand and our partners in the Pacific, having this additional capability puts us all in a better position to defend our borders. 

    This programme also highlights what can be achieved when countries and agencies work toward a common goal, which in this instance is protecting our borders and keeping our communities safe.”

    Inspector Todd Southall, National Coordinator Police Dogs and Manager of the Pacific Detector Dog Programme says, “These incredible dogs are trained to detect drugs, explosives, firearms and cash and it’s a proud day for all teams, both experienced and new when they qualify.”

    “This ceremony marks the end of a demanding few weeks training to become an operational team. It takes patience and perseverance to get through the training programme.

    “There is high demand for detector dog teams across the Pacific, so planning will continue as we manage more courses throughout the year.

    “In the meantime, best wishes to all our new teams as they begin their operational lives in New Zealand and throughout the Pacific,” says Todd.

    Established in 2018, the Pacific Detector Dog Programme (PDDP) is jointly managed by the New Zealand Police and New Zealand Customs Service. It is funded by New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: In fiery questioning, Senator Coons attacks Trump, DOGE, Senate Republicans for cuts to medical research in Appropriations Hearing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) took President Trump, Elon Musk and DOGE, and his Republican colleagues to task today for their brutal cuts to medical research that threaten to take away hope from millions of Americans. His remarks came during emotional questioning at a Senate Appropriations Committee hearing on biomedical research.
    Senator Coons opened his remarks by speaking out against the drastic cuts DOGE, which he described as a “horde of locusts,” has made to medical research and clinical trials. DOGE has fired 2,500 researchers at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and canceled over 800 grants for research on diseases like Alzheimer’s and cancer. They have also fired 3,500 members of staff at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
    These cuts have not just stunted medical research in our country for decades to come. They have also taken away hope from Americans struggling with disease and the families whose lives and well-being depend on this research. During his remarks, Senator Coons talked about how he has felt this personally – whether through friends who have benefitted from clinical cancer trials, or through family and friends he has lost to the disease, including his father, father-in-law, and stepfather.
    “Yes, clinical trials, doctor, sometimes doesn’t benefit the individual, but I gotta tell you: it sure as hell benefited [my friend] and his family. It gave him hope, and it kept him alive. And I don’t understand how a single member of this Congress can look you in the eyes as a mother and say we should cut these programs,” said Senator Coons during the hearing. “The FDA, the NIH, National Cancer Institutes, all in combination give hope to those facing the beast of cancer, the challenges of a new diagnosis, and the need for a path forward that’s positive.”
    Senator Coons also highlighted the impacts cuts to medical research have had on his own state, highlighting a recent visit to the University of Delaware’s National Institute for Innovation in Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals (NIIMBL). During his visit, Senator Coons was told that DOGE had delayed, paused, or withheld $55 million in grant funding for research on diseases like Alzheimer’s and cancer.
    “If that’s happening in my little state, all across our country we are devastating the next generation of researchers,” Senator Coons continued. “We are harming our nation and giving China the opening of a lifetime to recruit the best and brightest from around the world. And Emily, we are taking away from families like yours – all over our nation – hope.”
    A video and transcript of Senator Coons’ comments are available below.
    WATCH HERE
    Senator Coons: Thank you, Vice Chair Murray. Thank you for leading this hearing, and I want to thank each of the researchers who has dedicated your lives to science, to medicine, to progress. Thank you for your testimony today. Emily, thank you.
    I am enraged and struggling with this hearing. Listening to you talk about the value of hope to you and your daughter with cancer, and the very measured and reasonable way in which we’ve all discussed what’s happened, makes me crazy. Because DOGE, in my view, is a horde of locusts who’ve been unleashed on the federal government, and they have torn up things that we have built over decades. Let me just briefly review: at NIH, 1200 probationary researchers were laid off and another 1300 fired. That’s 2500 dedicated researchers. At FDA, 3500 staff. At NIH, DOGE canceled 800 grants valued at over a billion – and we were told these grants focused on DEI when in fact they focused on diabetes, Alzheimer’s, mRNA and cancer.
    My father died of cancer. My father-in-law died of cancer. My stepfather died of cancer. Your daughter, Charlie, is with us today because of the incredible dedicated research and the ground-breaking work of people we’ve talked so calmly about today. Dr. Sleckman, I have a personal friend – a combat veteran, a Marine Corps colonel – who came to me when he was diagnosed with stage four metastatic melanoma, as you just described, and whose life was saved by the research you described. I have a personal friend of decades, Nicky Sotiropoulis, who came to me when he was diagnosed with brain cancer. His son, close friends with my sons. His wife, close with my wife. He went to NIH month after month, year after year. Yes, clinical trials, doctor, sometimes doesn’t benefit the individual, but I gotta tell you: it sure as hell benefited Nick and his family. It gave him hope, and it kept him alive. And I don’t understand how a single member of this Congress can look you in the eyes as a mother and say we should cut these programs.
    Sure, we can talk about overhead rates. Sure, we can talk about measured and thoughtful and reasonable ways to trim a little here, or cut a little there. But that’s not what’s happening. What’s happening is the wholescale abandonment of billions of dollars of research. I was just at the University of Delaware last week, at the National Institute for Innovation in Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals, and you know what I was told? That at the University of Delaware – the little University of Delaware in Newark, Delaware! – $55 million in health research – $55 million! – has been delayed, paused, or withheld. Research on HIV, Alzheimer’s and characterization of cancer cells. And if that’s happening in my little state, all across our country we are devastating the next generation of researchers. We are harming our nation and giving China the opening of a lifetime to recruit the best and brightest from around the world. And Emily, we are taking away from families like yours – all over our nation – hope.
    Emily, can you tell me how important hope is for you and Charlie, how important is it that we keep investing in research?
    Mrs. Emily Stenson: Thank you for the question. Hope gets you through the hardest days, and I know I explained in our story some of the hard days that we had, and hope is what kept my husband and I going and trying to save our daughter. There’s no value you can put on hope, and we need to be providing it to all of the families like ours.
    Senator Coons: So yesterday, I caught up with a Delawarean who’s been living with ALS for years, and last weekend, a close friend of mine confided his recent diagnosis with ALS. Senator Murkowski and I worked to get signed into law a bill to invest in ALS research. Dr. Esham, if I could, how will the cuts to FDA impact your agency’s ability to characterize and bring new treatments – to provide hope to those living with this horrific disease?
    Cartier Esham, Ph.D.: Thank you for that question, Senator, and I believe you’re probably aware that the Alliance did send letters to this committee expressing our concerns about the volume of approval department departures, and the potential impact on the ability of the FDA to be effective and continue be able to continue to evaluate the safety and accuracy of next-generation medical interventions. I will say, I will say, I did have the privilege of meeting with the commissioner on Monday and was happy to hear that he does not have any major plans for a major reorganization. And while they’re looking at efficiencies, potential consolidations and things like travel and IT and potential efficiencies that can be brought about by regulatory innovation, I was happy to hear that they are looking very hard in examining what functions need to be brought back to the agency to ensure that they are able to manage—you know, optimally manage their workload and continue to review and approve next-generation medicines. I think continued transparency and communications about this and engagement can be very important moving forward. We are certainly—the alliance will be certainly examining the proposed budget updates about staffing, including information about what positions are funded by user fees, and how we can work together to make sure that in total, the FDA has the resources it has to have to not just approve what’s before them now, but to continue to drive investment in the United States and next-generation medicine. If you don’t have a functioning FDA, that has a severe impact on the ability to raise funds for next-generation medicines.
    Senator Coons: The FDA, the NIH, National Cancer Institutes, all in combination give hope to those facing the beast of cancer, the challenges of a new diagnosis, and the need for a path forward that’s positive. Thank you for what you do. Thank you, Madam Chair for this hearing.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: CFA firefighter remembered at national memorial service

    Source:

    Garry Mallen’s family received a Memorial Medallion

    This morning (1 May) the family of CFA Portland Fire Brigade volunteer Garry Mallen was presented with an AFAC Memorial Medallian.

    The AFAC National Memorial Service, held in Canberra, is an annual event to honour fire and emergency services personnel who have died in the line of duty.

    During the service, AFAC Memorial Medallions were presented to families of those being commemorated, including Garry. The service also acknowledged those people who have been added to the memorial wall. 

    CFA CEO Greg Leach AFSM and CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan attended the service, along with members of Portland Fire brigade and Garry’s family.

    • Garry Mallen’s family with members of Portland brigade and Chief Officer Jason Heffernan
    Submitted by News and Media

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: Clear Blue Technologies Announces Fiscal 2024 Results & Provides Corporate Update

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, April 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Clear Blue Technologies International Inc. (TSXV: CBLU) (FRANKFURT: OYA), the Smart Power Company, announces its financial results for fiscal 2024 (“F2024”). A complete set of Financial Statements and Management’s Discussion & Analysis (“MD&A”) has been filed at www.sedarplus.ca. All dollar amounts are denominated in Canadian dollars.

    F2024 Financial Results

    • Bookings increased to $5,071,105, an increase of 105%, when compared to $2,469,846 as of December 31, 2023, with delivery anticipated over the next three years.
    • TFQ revenue was $2,758,295, a 49% decrease from $5,403,589 in F2023.
    • TFQ recurring revenue was $759,261 a 2% increase from $747,148 in F2023.
    • TFQ Gross Profit decreased to $1,349,792 compared to $2,471,345 in the comparable period, a 45% decrease. The gross margin percentage increased to 49% from 46% in F2023.
    • Non-IFRS Adjusted EBITDA for the period was ($2,960,457) as compared to ($1,959,397) for the previous period, an 51% degradation from the comparative period of 2023. This was due to the reduced revenue result in 2024 as well as the movement of intangible (R&D) assets from the balance sheet for 2024.
    • Cash as of December 31, 2024, was $339,905 and remained stable thru Q1.
    • As of December 31, 2024, the Company had approximately $1.8M remaining from its IRAP Green Fund contract. At this time, it expects to receive $1.3M of that amount by the end of Q2 2025.

    Corporate Update & Financial Outlook

    The final quarter of 2024 was a very challenging one for Clear Blue. Due to the previously mentioned (Q3MD&A) uncertainty around contracted grant funding from the Canadian Federal Government, the company was forced to make material changes to avoid a catastrophic result.

    The company implemented a series of significant measures to enhance its financial position:

    • The workforce was reduced, and senior personnel accepted substantial reductions in compensation.
    • Cloud operations were moved to open-source platforms to reduce cost.
    • Debt levels were lowered through a successful debt conversion initiative.
    • These outcomes were achieved through comprehensive negotiations with key stakeholders.

    As a result of these actions:

    • The company emerged from a challenging period with a streamlined balance sheet.
    • Cash flow improved, and the company is now positioned for robust growth.
    • In total, cost reductions exceeded $3 million, exclusive of an additional $1 million in interest savings realized through the debt conversion.

    As a result, the Company expects a more balanced cash flow profile in the near term, enabling it to allocate resources toward core growth initiatives and operational execution. The positive impact of these measures is expected to support a trajectory toward sustainable cash generation, while reducing near-term cash repayment obligations. Management remains confident in the Company’s ability to drive further revenue expansion and capitalize on long-term growth opportunities.

    Clear Blue 2.0 – A Strong Foundation for 2025

    Broadly, in this industry, growth has been driven by increased investment in the “Green and AI” sectors, as well as a strong drive to reduce costs and dependence upon diesel fuel. Clear Blue has established relationships with marquee customers across the globe which reduces the dependence on US customers.

    Clear Blue enters 2025 with strong momentum, reporting $5,866,625 in bookings—a 138% increase over 2024

    Over the past six months, the Company has announced three major agreements, further reinforcing its growth trajectory. While Clear Blue is not issuing formal guidance at this time, these projects—combined with a robust sales pipeline across its five-product portfolio—position the Company well to drive revenue growth and achieve positive EBITDA in 2025. “It’s great to get back to selling, forming partnerships, producing, and deploying with customers,” said Miriam Tuerk, CEO of Clear Blue. “Our focus now is to monetize the opportunities ahead and deliver strong results, quarter by quarter.”

    Please join our earnings call Thursday May 1st at 11:00 am EDT to hear more.

    Registration Link

    https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_yLCwKEZnTLKhrAlYtqG51g

    For more information, contact:

    Miriam Tuerk, Co-Founder and CEO
    +1 416 433 3952
    miriam@clearbluetechnologies.com

    www.clearbluetechnologies.com/en/investors

    About Clear Blue Technologies International

    Clear Blue Technologies International, the Smart Off-Grid™ company, was founded on a vision of delivering clean, managed, “wireless power” to meet the global need for reliable, low-cost, solar and hybrid power for lighting, telecom, security, Internet of Things devices, and other mission-critical systems. Today, Clear Blue has thousands of systems under management across 37 countries, including the U.S. and Canada. (TSXV: CBLU) (FRA: 0YA) (OTCQB: CBUTF)

    Legal Disclaimer

    Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities described in this news release. Such securities have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act, or any state securities laws, and, accordingly, may not be offered or sold within the United States, or to or for the account or benefit of persons in the United States or “U.S. Persons”, as such term is defined in Regulation S promulgated under the U.S. Securities Act, unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or pursuant to an exemption from such registration requirements.

    Forward-Looking Statement

    This press release contains certain “forward-looking information” and/or “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Such forward-looking information and forward-looking statements are not representative of historical facts or information or current condition, but instead represent only Clear Blue’s beliefs regarding future events, plans or objectives, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and outside of Clear Blue’s control. Generally, such forward-looking information or forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “plans”, “expects” or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, or “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases or may contain statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will be taken”, “will continue”, “will occur” or “will be achieved”. The forward-looking information contained herein may include, but is not limited to, information concerning financial results and future upcoming contracts.

    By identifying such information and statements in this manner, Clear Blue is alerting the reader that such information and statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Clear Blue to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such information and statements.

    An investment in securities of Clear Blue is speculative and subject to several risks including, without limitation, the risks discussed under the heading “Risk Factors” in Clear Blue’s listing application dated July 12, 2018. Although Clear Blue has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking information and forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended.

    In connection with the forward-looking information and forward-looking statements contained in this press release, Clear Blue has made certain assumptions. Although Clear Blue believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing, and the expectations contained in, the forward-looking information and statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information and statements, and no assurance or guarantee can be given that such forward-looking information and statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information and statements. The forward-looking information and forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release. All subsequent written and oral forward- looking information and statements attributable to Clear Blue or persons acting on its behalf is expressly qualified in its entirety by this notice.”

    This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities described in this news release. Such securities have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act, or any state securities laws, and, accordingly, may not be offered or sold within the United States, or to or for the account or benefit of persons in the United States or “U.S. Persons”, as such term is defined in Regulation S promulgated under the U.S. Securities Act, unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or pursuant to an exemption from such registration requirements.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Who would win in a fight between 100 men and 1 gorilla? An evolutionary expert weighs in

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Renaud Joannes-Boyau, Professor in Geochronology and Geochemistry, Southern Cross University

    Hung Hung Chih/Shutterstock

    The internet’s latest absurd obsession is: who would win in a no-rules fight between 100 average human men and one adult male gorilla?

    This hypothetical and strange question has taken over Reddit, TikTok, YouTube and Instagram. Some argue that humans once hunted mammoths so, clearly, we would win. Others point out that a silverback gorilla can lift close to 1,000kg and could throw a grown man like a rag doll.

    To be honest, it’s not really a question we need to answer – and yet, as usual on the internet, everyone has an opinion.

    But, beyond the jokes and memes, this silly debate provides an opportunity to reflect on human evolution. What are the real strengths of our species? What have we sacrificed? And what can a gorilla, our majestic, powerful and endangered distant cousin, teach us about our own nature and evolution?

    Gorillas and humans: two branches of the same evolutionary tree

    Gorillas are one of our closest living relatives. Along with chimpanzees, bonobos and orangutans, they belong to the great apes or Hominidae family. Chimpanzees share about 98.8% of their DNA with us, while gorillas come a close second, sharing around 98.4%.

    The last common ancestor between humans and gorillas lived roughly 10 million years ago, and it is also the same ancestor for chimpanzees.

    Since the evolutionary split, humans and gorillas have followed very different paths. Gorillas have adapted to dense forests and mountainous terrains, while humans have evolved to live in the open, but realistically to multiple and various environments.

    Despite the substantial difference in ecological niches, humans and gorillas share many traits, such as opposable thumbs, facial expressions, complex social behaviours and emotional intelligence.

    Mastering forest power

    In the recent Dune saga, to win, Duke Leto Atreides wanted to develop “desert power”. Well, gorillas have mastered forest power.

    And let’s be clear – in terms of raw power, the gorilla wins every time. An adult male silverback can weigh more than 160kg and lift about a tonne without going to the gym every day. Their upper-body strength is shocking. And that’s no evolutionary accident – it’s the result of intense competition between males, where dominance determines mating.

    Additionally, gorillas are extremely tough and resilient, yet gentle and calm most of the time. Gorillas, like many primates, have a strong social intelligence. They use a variety of vocalisations, gestures and even chest drumming to communicate across distances.

    They have shown the ability to use sign language, mourn their dead, and demonstrate empathy, attesting to sophisticated cognitive skills.

    Trading muscles for minds

    A fight between 100 men and one gorilla might lead to a lot of dead men, but we all know that men will come with weapons, strategies, drones, fire and other clever tricks.

    Humans are not physically strong in comparison to many other mammals. Our strength as a species is our adaptability and our ability to collaborate in very large groups.

    Our brains are, on average, three times larger proportionally than those of gorillas. This fantastic evolutionary adaptation has allowed us to develop abstract thinking and symbolic language, but most of all, to pass and build on complex knowledge across generations.

    And this is our greatest superpower, our ability to cooperate across vast groups, far beyond the average gorilla social unit, which usually ranges from a few family members up to a group of 30 individuals.

    Humans’ evolutionary history has led to trading brute force for social, cultural and technological complexity, making us Earth’s most versatile and dangerous species.

    So, who’s the winner?

    In a one-on-one brawl, the gorilla can make “human-mash” with one hand. There is no contest when discussing brute force and bare hands.

    But humans fight dirty. Judging by our evolutionary success, humans would likely lose many battles but ultimately win the fight. Mountain gorillas were not on the brink of extinction in the 1980s without our help.

    Our species has spread across all continents, all terrains, and all climates. We have reshaped ecosystems, walked on the Moon, and developed advanced technologies. But gorillas are another kind of success rooted in harmony with their environment, physical grace, and quiet strength.

    Perhaps the real takeaway message isn’t who wins in a fight, but to realise that two very different and yet very close cousins have walked two separate evolutionary roads, each in their own distinct way. And both are nature’s triumph and accomplishment.

    Renaud Joannes-Boyau receives funding from the Australian Research Council, the Leakey Foundation, National Geographic, and the European Research Council.

    – ref. Who would win in a fight between 100 men and 1 gorilla? An evolutionary expert weighs in – https://theconversation.com/who-would-win-in-a-fight-between-100-men-and-1-gorilla-an-evolutionary-expert-weighs-in-255621

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Who would win in a fight between 100 men and 1 gorilla? An evolutionary expert weighs in

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Renaud Joannes-Boyau, Professor in Geochronology and Geochemistry, Southern Cross University

    Hung Hung Chih/Shutterstock

    The internet’s latest absurd obsession is: who would win in a no-rules fight between 100 average human men and one adult male gorilla?

    This hypothetical and strange question has taken over Reddit, TikTok, YouTube and Instagram. Some argue that humans once hunted mammoths so, clearly, we would win. Others point out that a silverback gorilla can lift close to 1,000kg and could throw a grown man like a rag doll.

    To be honest, it’s not really a question we need to answer – and yet, as usual on the internet, everyone has an opinion.

    But, beyond the jokes and memes, this silly debate provides an opportunity to reflect on human evolution. What are the real strengths of our species? What have we sacrificed? And what can a gorilla, our majestic, powerful and endangered distant cousin, teach us about our own nature and evolution?

    Gorillas and humans: two branches of the same evolutionary tree

    Gorillas are one of our closest living relatives. Along with chimpanzees, bonobos and orangutans, they belong to the great apes or Hominidae family. Chimpanzees share about 98.8% of their DNA with us, while gorillas come a close second, sharing around 98.4%.

    The last common ancestor between humans and gorillas lived roughly 10 million years ago, and it is also the same ancestor for chimpanzees.

    Since the evolutionary split, humans and gorillas have followed very different paths. Gorillas have adapted to dense forests and mountainous terrains, while humans have evolved to live in the open, but realistically to multiple and various environments.

    Despite the substantial difference in ecological niches, humans and gorillas share many traits, such as opposable thumbs, facial expressions, complex social behaviours and emotional intelligence.

    Mastering forest power

    In the recent Dune saga, to win, Duke Leto Atreides wanted to develop “desert power”. Well, gorillas have mastered forest power.

    And let’s be clear – in terms of raw power, the gorilla wins every time. An adult male silverback can weigh more than 160kg and lift about a tonne without going to the gym every day. Their upper-body strength is shocking. And that’s no evolutionary accident – it’s the result of intense competition between males, where dominance determines mating.

    Additionally, gorillas are extremely tough and resilient, yet gentle and calm most of the time. Gorillas, like many primates, have a strong social intelligence. They use a variety of vocalisations, gestures and even chest drumming to communicate across distances.

    They have shown the ability to use sign language, mourn their dead, and demonstrate empathy, attesting to sophisticated cognitive skills.

    Trading muscles for minds

    A fight between 100 men and one gorilla might lead to a lot of dead men, but we all know that men will come with weapons, strategies, drones, fire and other clever tricks.

    Humans are not physically strong in comparison to many other mammals. Our strength as a species is our adaptability and our ability to collaborate in very large groups.

    Our brains are, on average, three times larger proportionally than those of gorillas. This fantastic evolutionary adaptation has allowed us to develop abstract thinking and symbolic language, but most of all, to pass and build on complex knowledge across generations.

    And this is our greatest superpower, our ability to cooperate across vast groups, far beyond the average gorilla social unit, which usually ranges from a few family members up to a group of 30 individuals.

    Humans’ evolutionary history has led to trading brute force for social, cultural and technological complexity, making us Earth’s most versatile and dangerous species.

    So, who’s the winner?

    In a one-on-one brawl, the gorilla can make “human-mash” with one hand. There is no contest when discussing brute force and bare hands.

    But humans fight dirty. Judging by our evolutionary success, humans would likely lose many battles but ultimately win the fight. Mountain gorillas were not on the brink of extinction in the 1980s without our help.

    Our species has spread across all continents, all terrains, and all climates. We have reshaped ecosystems, walked on the Moon, and developed advanced technologies. But gorillas are another kind of success rooted in harmony with their environment, physical grace, and quiet strength.

    Perhaps the real takeaway message isn’t who wins in a fight, but to realise that two very different and yet very close cousins have walked two separate evolutionary roads, each in their own distinct way. And both are nature’s triumph and accomplishment.

    Renaud Joannes-Boyau receives funding from the Australian Research Council, the Leakey Foundation, National Geographic, and the European Research Council.

    – ref. Who would win in a fight between 100 men and 1 gorilla? An evolutionary expert weighs in – https://theconversation.com/who-would-win-in-a-fight-between-100-men-and-1-gorilla-an-evolutionary-expert-weighs-in-255621

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Ukraine: attacks against civilians and diplomatic efforts – UN Security Council briefing | UN

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    UN chief of political affairs Rosemary DiCarlo condemned “all attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure, wherever they occur,” reiterating that “direct attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure is prohibited under international humanitarian law and must cease immediately.”

    The Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs told the Council that today’s meeting is taking place at a potential inflection point in the three-year war in Ukraine.

    She noted the intensified efforts to bring the parties to negotiations, which offer a glimmer of hope for progress towards a ceasefire and an eventual peaceful settlement. But at the same time, the world continues to witness relentless attacks on Ukrainian cities and towns.
    As of 24 April, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) had verified 151 civilians killed and 697 injured in April. With verification ongoing, this figure is expected to surpass the March figures, which were already 50 percent higher than in February, DiCarlo told the Council.

    Since February 2022, OHCHR has verified 13,015 civilians, including 699 children, killed, and 31,628 more civilians, including 2,016 children, injured, in Ukraine. She also noted recent media reports quoting local Russian authorities that indicate civilian casualties in the Kursk, Bryansk and Belgorod regions of the Russian Federation.

    The UN top political affairs official echoed the Secretary-General’s repeated calls for de-escalation and a durable ceasefire in Ukraine, and is encouraged by the diplomatic efforts underway.

    DiCarlo reiterated, “The UN remains engaged, particularly on the safety of navigation in the Black Sea to support global food security and maintain vital supply chains strained by the war.”

    She continued, “The continued exchange of prisoners of war between Ukraine and the Russian Federation, including the largest to date on 20 April involving 500 prisoners, shows that with political will, diplomacy can yield tangible results even in the most difficult circumstances.”

    As the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War approaches, the UN official reminded the Council – with even greater urgency – of the centrality of the Charter of the United Nations and international law in safeguarding peace and security.

    She said, “The Russian Federation’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine stands as an egregious challenge to these fundamental principles, jeopardizing stability in Europe and threatening the broader international order.”

    “The war in Ukraine is a war of choice,” DiCarlo stressed, adding that “what is needed now is a full, immediate and unconditional ceasefire as a critical first step towards ending the violence and creating the conditions for a just, comprehensive and sustainable peace.”

    For her part, senior OCHA official Joyce Msuya said that as the war continues, millions of lives are impacted daily, essential services are disrupted and humanitarian needs deepened.

    She highlighted, “Attacks on healthcare services and health facilities are crippling access to maternal care,” highlighting that pregnant women are now giving birth amid blackouts, medicine shortages and under attack, with a 12 per cent rise in birth complications reported by health workers.

    “For many expectant mothers, basic, life-saving care is simply no longer available,” Msuya said.

    The Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator emphasized once again, “Under international humanitarian law, civilians and civilian objects must be protected.”

    “This means that indiscriminate attacks are strictly prohibited. It also means that parties must take all feasible precautions to avoid civilian harm, whether they are launching attacks or defending against them,” Msuya stressed.

    The Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator also noted that underfunding is forcing critical programmes to scale down, even as the operational environment becomes more complex and dangerous.

    “Additional resources are needed now to save lives and sustain assistance,” she concluded.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p1y84hIEvo4

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: “The world cannot afford to watch the two-State solution disappear” – UN Chief at Security Council

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    “The world cannot afford to watch the two-State solution disappear,” UN Secretary-General António Guterres urged the Security Council to take urgent action toward achieving a two-state solution, warning that the humanitarian crisis in Gaza has reached levels “beyond imagination.”

    The Security Council on Tuesday (Apr 29) held its quarterly open debate on “The situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question,” chaired by French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noël Barrot.

    “Across the Middle East, people demand and deserve a better future, not endless conflict and suffering,” Guterres said, calling the region “at a hinge-point in history.” He stressed that peace is only possible by resolving “a core issue that this Security Council has affirmed and re-affirmed decade after decade… a two-state solution, Israel and Palestine, living side-by-side in peace and security, with Jerusalem as the capital of both states.”

    With the situation in Gaza deteriorating, Guterres said, “For nearly two full months, Israel has blocked food, fuel, medicine and commercial supplies, depriving more than two million people of lifesaving relief. All while the world watches.” He condemned statements by Israeli officials suggesting the use of humanitarian aid as leverage, emphasizing, “Aid is non-negotiable.”

    The Secretary-General cautioned against complacency, “This is not a time for ritualistically expressing support, ticking a box, and moving on. We are past the stage of ticking boxes – the clock is ticking. The two-State solution is near a point of no return.”

    Riyad Mansour, Permanent Observer for Palestine, cited recent remarks by the U.S. President Donald Trump, saying he had urged Israel “to be good to Gaza” and called for allowing humanitarian aid. “We deeply hope that the United States, Egypt and Qatar, with the support of the international community as a whole, will be able to secure a return to the ceasefire to start bringing all this suffering to an end,” Mansour said.

    Israel’s Deputy Permanent Representative Jonathan Miller rejected claims of a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, stating, “Our assessments indicate there is currently no evidence of a humanitarian crisis.” He accused Hamas of diverting aid to its fighters and blamed the group for prolonging the war and holding 59 hostages in “inhumane conditions.” “Still, some in the international community continue to draw dangerous false equivalencies,” he said.

    France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot warned of broader regional destabilization, “As we speak, Gaza lies devastated by war, Lebanon is only beginning to recover, Syria is embarking on a fragile and uncertain transition, and Iran continues its dangerous pursuit of nuclear armament.” He called for an immediate halt to hostilities, adding, “Our first priority is to stop the hostilities to end the suffering of civilian populations.”

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hpoFkCIdQqc

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: India/Pakistan, Palestine & other topics – Daily Press Briefing (29 April 2025) | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon Briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    Highlights:
    India/Pakistan
    Security Council
    Occupied Palestinian Territory
    Secretary-General/Syria
    Lebanon
    General Assembly/Pope
    Security Council/Ukraine
    Afghanistan
    Democratic Republic of the Congo
    Haiti
    Locusts
    Noon Briefing Guest
    Financial Contribution

    INDIA/PAKISTAN
    This morning, the Secretary-General spoke separately by telephone with Muhammad Shebaz Sharif, the Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, and he also spoke earlier in the day with Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, the Minister for External Affairs of the Republic of India. In his phone calls, the Secretary-General reiterated his strong condemnation of the 22 April terrorist attack that took place in Jammu and Kashmir. The Secretary-General noted the importance of pursuing justice and accountability for these attacks through lawful means.
    The Secretary-General also expressed his deep concern at the rising tensions between India and Pakistan and he also underscored the need to avoid a confrontation that could result in tragic consequences.
    The Secretary-General offered his Good Offices to support any de-escalation efforts.

    SECURITY COUNCIL
    The Secretary-General, in a briefing to the Security Council this morning on Israel and Palestine, said that the promise of a two-State solution is at risk of dwindling to the point of disappearance. The political commitment to this long-standing goal is farther than it has ever been, he said.
    The world cannot afford to watch the two-State solution disappear, heasserted. Political leaders face clear choices — the choice to be silent, the choice to acquiesce, or the choice is to act.
    Regarding Gaza, Mr. Guterres said that the recent ceasefire had brought a glimmer of hope – the long-sought release of hostages and the delivery of lifesaving humanitarian relief. But those embers of opportunity were cruelly extinguished with the shattering of the ceasefire on 18 March.
    The Secretary-General said that he was alarmed by statements by Israeli government officials about the use of humanitarian aid as a tool for military pressure. Aid is non-negotiable, he said. Israel must protect civilians and must agree to relief schemes and facilitate them, he said.
    The Secretary-General told the Council that there must be no hindrance to humanitarian aid – including through the vital work of UNRWA. We need the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, and we need a permanent ceasefire.
    Mr. Guterres added that it’s time to stop the repeated displacement of the Gaza population – along with any question of forced displacement outside of Gaza, and the trampling of international law must end.

    Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=29%20April%202025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kyIzbPRrjkk

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: UPDATE: Call for information – Suspicious machinery fire – Yuendumu

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force is continuing to call for information in relation to a suspicious heavy machinery fire in Yuendumu on 14 December 2024.

    On Friday 13 December 2024 at 5:30pm, four employees operating the site completed their shift and stopped their heavy machinery for the day. The machinery being:

    • Isuzu Tip Truck bearing
    • Bobcat E50 Mini Excavator
    • Caterpillar 311D Excavator
    • Chase CX57C Excavator

    The machinery was parked along Nyrippi Road within approximately 50 meters of each other and upon the workers return to the site at 6:15am the following day, it was established that all but one of the machines were destroyed by fire.

    A crime scene was established where the extensive damage to the equipment was assessed, which suggests the fire was deliberately lit.

    Southern Crime members continue to investigate and urge anyone with information about the incident to make contact on 131 444. Please quote reference number P24347724.

    You can also report anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or through https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for May 1, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on May 1, 2025.

    What’s the difference between a tantrum and a meltdown?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Shawna Mastro Campbell, Assistant Professor Clinical Psychology, Bond University Volurol/Shutterstock If you live with young children, there’s a good chance you’ve been on the receiving end of a child yelling, screaming, crying, throwing or hitting things. But how do parents know what is typical and age-related boundary

    Is WA Health having final say over edits of Paramedics ‘censorship’? Yes. But it’s necessary
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jan Cattoni, Lecturer, Screen Production, CQUniversity Australia Australian reality TV debuted in 2006 with Bondi Rescue. The show featured a winning formula of sun, surf, heroes and danger. It sparked many similar programs featuring police, helicopter crews and paramedics. Paramedics (2018–), as the title suggests, follows Australian

    Savvy athletes and new technology are flipping traditional sports marketing on its head
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Cairney, Professor and Head of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences; Director, The Queensland Centre for Olympic and Paralympic Studies, The University of Queensland Not so long ago, life was pretty simple for sports leagues and teams when it came to connecting with fans: the contests and

    3 years on from the ‘integrity’ election, how is Australia tracking on corruption reforms?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kate Griffiths, Democracy Deputy Program Director, Grattan Institute Taras Vyshnya/Shutterstock At the last federal election, the then opposition leader Anthony Albanese pledged to “change the way politics operates in this country”. Integrity was a key issue in 2022, and Australians voted for a change of government and

    Are side hustles really a way to escape the rat race, or just passion projects for a privileged few?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By David Farrugia, ARC Future Fellow, School of Education, Deakin University PeopleImages.com – Yuri A/Shutterstock Is a “side hustle” really the only thing separating you from the life you desire? Listening to some influencers on social media could certainly have you thinking so. Side hustles encompass a range

    Feuding mob families, mind control and a murder at the White House: what to watch in May
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alexa Scarlata, Lecturer, Digital Communication, RMIT University Disney+/Prime/Netflix/Paramount+/The Conversation It’s May! Where did the year go? It must be all the amazing TV we’re watching that’s making the time whiz by. This month’s lineup of expert picks is packed with standout shows across all genres. Whether you’re

    How does consciousness work? Duelling scientists tested two big theories but found no winner
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tim Bayne, Professor of Philosophy, Monash University cdd20 / Unsplash “Theories are like toothbrushes,” it’s sometimes said. “Everybody has their own and nobody wants to use anybody else’s.” It’s a joke, but when it comes to the study of consciousness – the question of how we have

    Australians are warming to minority governments – but they still prefer majority rule
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nicholas Biddle, Professor of Economics and Public Policy, ANU College of Arts and Social Sciences, Australian National University Minority governments have been part of Australia’s political history since Federation. In the country’s early decades, Prime Ministers Edmund Barton, Alfred Deakin, Chris Watson, George Reid and Andrew Fisher

    Donald Trump has cast a long shadow over the Australian election. Will it prove decisive?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Emma Shortis, Adjunct Senior Fellow, School of Global, Urban and Social Studies, RMIT University Donald Trump is everywhere, inescapable. His return to power in the United States was always going to have some impact on the Australian federal election. The question was how disruptive he would be.

    Playing politics with AI: why NZ needs rules on the use of ‘fake’ images in election campaigns
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Bronwyn Isaacs, Lecturer, Anthropology, University of Waikato Laurence Dutton/Getty Images Seeing is no longer believing in the age of images and videos generated by artificial intelligence (AI), and this is having an impact on elections in New Zealand and elsewhere. Ahead of the 2025 local body elections,

    When it comes to health information, who should you trust? 4 ways to spot a dodgy ‘expert’
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hassan Vally, Associate Professor, Epidemiology, Deakin University Surface/Unsplash When it comes to our health, we’re constantly being warned about being taken in by misinformation. Yet for most of us what we believe ultimately comes down to who we trust, including which “experts” we trust. The problem is

    What is a downburst? These winds can be as destructive as tornadoes − we recreate them to test building designs
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Amal Elawady, Associate Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Florida International University A downburst blasts Bangkok, Thailand, in 2017. Natapat Ariyamongkol/iStock/Getty Images Plus From a distance, a downburst can look like a torrent of heavy rain. But at ground level, its behavior can be far more destructive.

    Confirmed: Australian weapons sold to Israel, reveals Declassified Australia
    Report by Dr David Robie – Café Pacific. – SPECIAL REPORT: By Michelle Fahy The Australian counter-drone weapons system seen at a weapons demonstration in Israel recently is actually just one of a few that were sold by the Canberra-based company Electro Optic Systems (EOS) and sent through its wholly-owned US subsidiary to Israel, Declassified

    Amid Dutton’s ‘hate media’ and Trump’s despotism, press freedom is more vital than ever
    COMMENTARY: By Alexandra Wake Despite all the political machinations and hate towards the media coming from the president of the United States, I always thought the majority of Australian politicians supported the role of the press in safeguarding democracy. And I certainly did not expect Peter Dutton — amid an election campaign, one with citizens

    Election Diary: post-election rate cut and phone call from Trump in the pipeline
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra It used to be de rigueur for the prime minister and opposition leader to turn up to the National Press Club in the final week of the election campaign. But now Liberal leaders are not so keen. Scott Morrison gave

    Inaccurate 1News reporting on football violence breached broadcasting standards, rules BSA
    Broadcasting Standards Authority New Zealand’s Broadcasting Standards Authority (BSA) has upheld complaints about two 1News reports relating to violence around a football match in Amsterdam between local team Ajax and Israel’s Maccabi Tel Aviv. The authority found an item on “antisemitic violence” surrounding the match, and another on heightened security in Paris the following week,

    People’s mental health goes downhill after repeated climate disasters – it’s an issue of social equity
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ang Li, ARC DECRA and Senior Research Fellow, NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence in Healthy Housing, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne Across Australia, communities are grappling with climate disasters that are striking more frequently and with greater intensity. Bushfires, floods and

    Older Australians are also hurting from the housing crisis. Where are the election policies to help them?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Victoria Cornell, Research Fellow, Flinders University shutterstock beeboys/Shutterstock It would be impossible at this stage in the election campaign to be unaware that housing is a critical, potentially vote-changing, issue. But the suite of policies being proposed by the major parties largely focus on young, first home

    Inflation is easing, boosting the case for another interest rate cut in May
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Hawkins, Senior Lecturer, Canberra School of Politics, Economics and Society, University of Canberra Daria Nipot/Shutterstock Australia’s headline inflation rate held steady at a four-year low of 2.4% in the March quarter, according to official data, adding to the case for a cut in interest rates at

    Is your child anxious about going on school camp? Here are 4 ways to prepare
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Micah Boerma, Researcher, School of Psychology and Wellbeing, University of Southern Queensland Nitinai Thabthong/Shutterstock One of the highlights of the school year is an overnight excursion or school camp. These can happen as early as Year 3. While many students are very excited about the chance to

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Tuberville op-ed: Pete Hegseth Isn’t the Hero We Deserve, But the Hero We Need

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    “When President Trump nominated Pete Hegseth to serve as Secretary of the Department of Defense, he intentionally picked someone who understands what it means to fight for this country—not from behind a desk, but from the frontlines”
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) penned an op-ed in Breitbart defending the great work Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is doing at the Pentagon amid a flurry of attacks from the Mainstream Media. As Alabama’s representative on the Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator Tuberville played a pivotal role in getting Secretary Hegseth confirmed and continues to support the Secretary’s work to refocus the Pentagon on lethality, not woke politics.
    Read excerpts below or the full piece here.

    “It’s no secret in Washington that the globalist Democrats and woke media are working together with one singular goal in mind: to take down Donald Trump and derail his America First agenda. The latest target? President Trump’s Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth. I’m convinced that many Democrats would rather see America and its leaders fail than see this country succeed. It’s sad, but true.
    When President Trump nominated Pete Hegseth to serve as Secretary of the Department of Defense (DOD), he intentionally picked someone who understands what it means to fight for this country—not from behind a desk, but from the frontlines. Pete didn’t inherit stars on his uniform. He earned his stripes in the Middle East. He’s one of the few in Washington who’s been in the fight and experienced the traumas of war. He knows firsthand what the warfighter goes through each and every day, which is why military recruiting has skyrocketed under his leadership.
    Predictably, Democrats, the Swamp, and RINO Republicans immediately banded together in opposition to Hegseth’s nomination. I’m convinced that their only real opposition to Hegseth was because he was not a part of the Military Industrial Complex. As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, I enthusiastically supported Hegseth’s nomination because of his outsider status—and I’m continuing to fight for him today.
    Unfortunately, the smears have only gotten worse since his confirmation. Globalists, the media, and some Republicans are working overtime to try to take Hegseth down. Their latest obsession are the various publicity stunts coming from several disgruntled former employees who were fired by Secretary Hegseth. It’s clear as day that these efforts to embarrass Hegseth are nothing more than desperate attempts to salvage reputations and distract from the successes he is already having at the Pentagon.
    The truth is, Hegseth inherited a complete mess at DOD. The Pentagon has failed an audit seven years in a row. And thanks to the Biden administration’s horrible withdrawal from Afghanistan, our enemies were emboldened. Instead of working to deter World War III, however, Joe Biden’s Pentagon was more focused on social justice. In 2024 alone, the Biden Defense Department requested more than $114 million for DEI initiatives. Meanwhile, recruitment was at historic lows. Military readiness was slipping. And the world saw a weakened United States. […]
    The Swamp doesn’t like people it can’t control. But America loves leaders who tell the truth and fight for what matters. Pete Hegseth is one of those leaders. So, let’s be clear: Pete’s not the problem. He’s the solution. And while the Swamp keeps losing its ever-loving mind because we have leaders who are putting America First again, Secretary Hegseth will keep marching forward, focused on the only thing that matters—making our military the strongest, fiercest, and most respected fighting force the world has ever known.”
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Speaks to Trump’s U.S. Department of Agriculture Nominees

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined a Senate Agriculture Committee hearing, to consider the nominations of Luke Lindberg to be Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, and of Devon Westhill to be Assistant Secretary of Agriculture for Civil Rights. During the hearing, Senator Tuberville and Mr. Lindberg discussed the significant impact foreign trade has on American farmers and producers. Additionally, Senator Tuberville and Mr. Westhill discussed protecting American agriculture and rural communities from woke, DEI policies.
    Read excerpts below or watch the full clip on YouTube or Rumble.

    ON PRESERVING AMERICAN FARMLAND
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Gentlemen, thanks for being here. Five-alarm-fire. We’re in trouble.
    The Ag Department and us, we have a big chore in front of us. We’re losing farmers every day. We lost 150,000 farms in the last four years […] It’s not acceptable. The Biden administration sat on their hands for four years, didn’t do one trade deal, and it looked like they tried to put our farmers out of business on purpose. […] I couldn’t believe it. Sat there watching it. We have got to do something. I get calls every week.
    I get a call every week: ‘we’re going out of business.’ Worst the farmers have ever been. We can’t do business as usual. Something has got to be done. And if we don’t do that, we’re gonna lose them. It’s gonna be over and we’re gonna be buying every bit of the food that we eat out of this country. And we saw what happened during COVID. It was a disaster when we couldn’t get drugs because China’s only one making drugs. So, I’ll get off my soapbox here and thank both of you for what you’re gonna try to do.”
    ON U.S.-FOREIGN TRADE DISADVANTAGES
    TUBERVILLE: “Mr. Lindberg, cotton has weakened due to the surge of low value textile imports of synthetic fibers – all from Southeast Asia. And they come through an $800 de minimis loophole, and it’s killing us. So, President Trump’s been working to close this loophole. Can you talk a little bit about that?”
    MR. LINDBERG: “Senator, thank you. I can, and I appreciate you spending some time with me in your office to discuss these issues prior to this. Enjoyed our conversation. Absolutely, President Trump has taken seriously—based on the news reports I’ve seen— the de minimis exemption which has been a tragedy for not only our cotton farmers, but also for manufacturers and a lot of other industries across America.
    I will absolutely work alongside, and look forward to working alongside, our interagency colleagues to make sure that those de minimis exemptions and things are held accountable and are following the law of the land. Our former governor is now at the Department of Homeland Security and looking to work with her team at Customers and Border Protection as well […] Thank you.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Well, you know, it sounds like a little thing, but all those little things add up for our farmers. And, you know, we have got to get better commodity prices. If we don’t, I mean, it’s gonna be over with for United States farmers.”
    ON CIVIL RIGHTS
    TUBERVILLE: “Mr. Westhill, how do you plan to approach and manage the USDA career staffers in the civil rights departments that do not support President Trump’s agenda?”
    MR. WESTHILL: “Senator, I really appreciate the question. And I’ll say, look, I think the career staffers that I worked with in the first term were, many of them, consummate professionals. In fact, one of them is here today supporting my nomination as one of my guests. He served as the chief of staff the entire time that I served in the first term. I think the important thing to do is to you know, to put out a clear vision for what your plan is.
    I think the vast majority of the individuals who are in that office want to actually enforce civil rights. That’s why they went into that office. And at the end of the day, it is a civil rights office. Not a DEI office. And I think that the vast majority of those individuals will get behind President Trump’s agenda, which is to advance civil rights.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Team USA. I mean, the only way we can make [and] we can’t do it by pulling each other apart.”      
    ON CATTLE PRODUCTION
    TUBERVILLE: “Mr. Lindberg, the Biden administration put U.S. cattle producers at a competitive disadvantage and endangered the American public by allowing imports of beef from Paraguay. That’s ridiculous. Paraguay cattle producers do not have the same food safety standards as [the] U.S. Can you speak to USDA’s plans to ensure sufficient due diligence is done in these inspections?”
    MR. LINDBERG: “Sir, thank you for the question. For me, in my role at USDA, as the Under Secretary of Foreign Agricultural Affairs, and Trade, that will be an effort by my colleagues. But I look forward to working with my colleagues in making sure that they have timely market analysis and market intelligence on those exact issues.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you.”
    ON PEANUT FARMERS
    TUBERVILLE: “Also, our peanut growers in my state, which is huge, and across the country, have been at a competitive disadvantage in the marketplace due to non-tariff trade barriers on peanuts from aflatoxin in the European Union. I asked Mr. Vaden this when he came through a few weeks ago and I’ll ask you too. Would you commit to ensuring USDA and USTR work together on Trump’s agenda to reduce trade barriers and prioritize market access for all of our farmers?”
    Mr. Lindberg: “I look forward to doing exactly that.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.”
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police accept findings into wrongful arrest

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police acknowledge and accept the Independent Police Conduct Authority’s findings into the wrongful arrest of a person following a fire in Westgate.

    Waitematā District Commander Superintendent Naila Hassan says Police accept the Authority’s findings in this matter.

    “Our staff were acting with good intention at the time and suspected the man had committed the offence.

    “However, we accept they did not have good cause to suspect the man committed arson and as such did not have grounds to make the arrest.

    “Our staff apologised to this man and we have had discussed learnings around this event with them.”

    Both officers remain part of New Zealand Police.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Advancing Antarctic research on climate change impacts

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government is investing in Antarctic research to better understand changes on the icy continent and how they could affect New Zealand, Science, Innovation and Technology Minister Dr Shane Reti announced today.

    “What happens in Antarctica matters to us here in New Zealand,” Dr Reti says.

    “For example, as Antarctic ice melts, sea levels rise, which increases the risk of coastal erosion and flooding — threatening Kiwi homes and communities.”

    First established through Budget 2017, the Antarctic Science Platform has been leading important research like modelling ice sheets to better predict sea-level rise. This information helps New Zealand prepare for and respond to future climate challenges.

    In a second tranche of funding, the Government will invest another $49 million over the next seven years to keep this critical work going. 

    Dr Reti says it’s the Government’s largest investment in Antarctic research and will help New Zealand collaborate with international partners like the United States, Italy, and South Korea, who have research bases near Scott Base.

    “As a founding Party to the Antarctic Treaty and one of only five gateways to the southernmost continent, New Zealand is committed to preserving and protecting Antarctica and the Southern Ocean for present and future generations,” says Dr Reti. 

    “What happens in Antarctica affects us all. This investment will help us better understand and prepare for climate change impacts, protect our communities, and support economic growth through stronger science and innovation.”

    Notes for editors:

    The Antarctic Science Platform’s objective is to conduct excellent science to understand Antarctica’s impact on the global earth system and how this might change in a +2˚ C (Paris agreement) world. It has four priorities:

    • Understanding the stability of the West Antarctic ice sheet
    • Understanding the impacts of change in the Antarctic atmosphere and Southern Ocean
    • Understanding threats to ecosystem dynamics in the Ross Sea
    • Understanding change in terrestrial and nearshore Antarctic environments, and the connections between them.
    • What are the critical signposts of catastrophic climate change and how can they be effectively observed to support timely mitigation?
    • What are the drivers and potential implications of unprecedented change in the Ross Sea and Southern Ocean?
    • What are the critical vulnerabilities of Antarctica’s ice sheets and glaciers, and what are the implications of likely increased melt?

    Over the next seven years, the Antarctic Science Platform seeks to build on their previous work, but with a strategic shift based on extensive consultation with Antarctic researchers and stakeholders, to understand:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Hunters across the country get set for Opening Weekend for game bird season

    Source: Fish and Game NZ

    Tens of thousands of Kiwis from the Far North to the Deep South are preparing for the start of the 2025 game bird season this Saturday (May 3).
    Fish & Game New Zealand chief executive Corina Jordan said a strong breeding season has set the stage for an exciting Opening Weekend for hunters.
    “We know the anticipation is building in communities nationwide as hunters gear up for the big day. Opening Weekend is a popular event on the calendar for New Zealanders from all walks of life.”
    Jordan, who will join Minister for Hunting and Fishing James Meager at a maimai in Otago on Saturday, says New Zealand offers a wide range of hunting opportunities beyond just the Opening Weekend.
    “New Zealand is a haven for game bird hunters, offering more than just the Opening Weekend. Hunters in many parts of the country have the opportunity to go game bird hunting all through winter.
    “As much as game bird hunting is about the challenge, it’s also about the camaraderie with friends and family, the connection to nature, and the valued tradition of hunting, which has been passed down through generations.
    “There’s nothing quite like the feeling of standing alongside fellow hunters on Opening Weekend and the opportunity to provide wild, sustainable food for family, friends, and communities up and down the country.”
    The forecast for the Opening Weekend shows cloudy skies and mild temperatures across many regions, says Jordan.
    “While the dry summer had raised concerns for game bird hunters in some parts of the country, recent rainfall has brought much-needed relief. This should lift the spirits of the approximately 60,000 hunters heading out this weekend. 
    “We also want to thank those farmers who are generously opening their farms to hunters — many of whom are hunters themselves. Their support helps ensure that the tradition of game bird hunting continues.”
    Game bird hunting regional wrap
    Region Details Northland Region In the last two weeks of April, some areas of Northland received three times the average expected rainfall for the month. Heavy and persistent falls have landed on much of the region’s east coast, causing widespread flooding. The west coast has been less affected but has still received some rain. This has been a relief for some who have had their wetlands and duck ponds replenished after a long dry spell but it is a cause for frustration for others. Hunters that have been feeding ponds may find that the ducks have dispersed around the floodplains to take advantage of the floodwater and the abundance of protein rich food that it brings. Many hunters are also unable to reach their maimai due to floodwater submerging their access tracks and, in some cases, their entire maimai. Whether the floodwater will subside by the weekend will depend on how much rain remains to fall. Opening Weekend is forecast to be fine and sunny, although a reasonable wind on Saturday will help keep the ducks moving. Hunting prospects are expected to be reasonable this season. Mallard/grey numbers look good, although there is likely to be a higher proportion of adults and fewer juveniles than last year, considering that the dry spring period will have resulted in lower-than-usual juvenile recruitment. Paradise duck numbers remain high, and with an increased bag limit of 25 birds, there will be an opportunity for some exciting hunting and taking home lean protein. Swan numbers are significantly lower than in previous years due to the large population from Lake Ōmāpere dispersing, with many leaving the region. Shoveler numbers remain stable, and pūkeko are as prevalent as ever. Upland game numbers are good this season and will provide an excellent opportunity to add some diversity to hunting activities and get more value out of the licence purchase with the longer season that is offered for pheasant and quail. Hunters that adapt to the change in conditions will do well this Opening Weekend. Those hunters whose maimai is unreachable are encouraged to hunt the margins of floodwater on or near the main flight lines of the river systems. Tactics normally used mid and late season — such as scouting for shallow floodwater and bird concentrations, will pay off — particularly for evening hunting. Fish & Game rangers will be out both days and look forward to seeing hunters enjoying the great tradition that is opening weekend. 
    Eastern region The Opening Weekend weather is looking promising for hunters in the Eastern Region. Given the forecast, the region predicts that Opening Weekend bags should be similar to last year. Eastern Council has decided to increase the season length for the 2025 mallard, grey, and shoveler duck season to six weeks, providing keen hunters with an additional opportunity. Paradise shelduck and black swan populations are on par with the last few years and pukeko are plentiful. Upland game hunting should be better than last year. Rangers will be out and about checking hunters’ bags and will be accompanied by police and Firearms Safety Authority staff in areas. 
    Hawke’s Bay region With a good amount of rain forecast in the days leading up to opening day, windy, cold conditions for Saturday and Sunday, and a good chance of more rain on Saturday morning, the prospects are good for Opening Weekend. There are good numbers of mallards and high numbers of paradise ducks; the rain should help keep the birds flying, the wind should keep them from flying straight out to sea, and the cold weather should make them hungry — maximising hunting opportunities for all hunters, particularly those who have put in good pre-season work. The upland prospects are looking equally good. The local Fish & Game team has seen good numbers of Quail and Pheasants on river margins and in forested areas, no doubt helped by a large number of donated cock pheasants released after last year’s upland season and the great breeding season with no major rain events, minimising juvenile mortality. We expect a good season with game birds in great condition. We wish all licence holders a happy and successful season while reminding them to carry their hunting licence and read and comply with the regulations. 
    Taranaki region Summer drought periods have finally broken with recent rainfall, which has been happily received throughout the region. As water returns to ponds and wetlands that have been dry or at a low ebb over summer, birds will be congregating in these areas to feed on concentrations of worms and bugs. Recent trend counts have shown gamebird numbers are strong throughout Taranaki, Wanganui and the Waimarino. As we head into the wetter months and water starts to accumulate in paddocks of maise stubble and newly sown grass, productive hunts can be had, particularly for paradise shelduck, which, according to January moult counts, are currently in record-high numbers throughout the Taranaki ring plain. As a result of these higher numbers, the bag limit has been increased from 10 to 15 shelduck for opening weekend in Area C, with the rest of the season returning to the usual 10 birds. Recent monitoring has shown that mallard, black swan, and pūkeko populations remain stable in good numbers, providing plenty of hunting opportunities. The weather forecast is a mixed bag for the weekend, with sun and clear skies forecast from Saturday onwards, with strong southerly winds that ease on Sunday. 
    Nelson Marlborough region The regions mallard monitoring programme indicates numbers in the Marlborough area are up 20 percent the average. Also the regions paradise shelduck numbers are very v strong in the Tasman and Golden Bay area. This bodes well for hunters in the region in the coming months. 
    West Coast region West Coast game bird populations are in excellent shape. A wet spring provided ideal breeding conditions, leading to strong duckling and chick survival rates. Recent monitoring confirms that mallards, grey ducks, paradise shelducks, pūkeko, shoveler, and black swans are all in healthy numbers across the region. Though summer has been dry, the strong start to the breeding season means bird numbers remain high. Waterfowl have adapted to the changing conditions, with many concentrating around the most reliable water sources. This makes preseason scouting crucial, as identifying where birds are feeding and roosting offers hunters the best chance of success. Farm ponds and spring-fed creeks are often key feeding areas, while wetlands, riverbeds, and estuaries are expected to continue holding significant numbers of roosting birds. 
    North Canterbury regionHunters in North Canterbury should have plenty of opportunities this opening weekend. This week’s rain, however, will disperse birds by providing plenty of new habitat for the ducks to feed on so be prepared to move around to hunt your ducks. Te Waihora/Lake Ellesmere, regarded as one of New Zealand’s Waterfowlers’ bucket list hunting locations is looking fantastic. The Lake will be opened to the sea in the coming weeks, but it is at a perfect level for opening weekend. Elsewhere in the region, duck numbers are good following a mild summer, and with a three-month-long season, hunters will have lots of opportunities to hunt over the coming weeks. 
    Central South Island region Overall, the relatively wet summer on the Plains and foothills has set up water levels nicely at hunting ponds; however, further inland, it has been much drier. Central South Island Fish & Game’s game bird population surveys suggest that, in general, the relatively wet summer on the Canterbury Plains has supported a productive breeding season, which bodes well for the 2025 season. A Canterbury Plains survey of mallard duck and paradise shelduck population undertaken in March observed healthy numbers — the third highest count since records began for mallard duck and the highest on record for paradise shelduck. Annual population monitoring shows black swan numbers are currently high in the Wainono Lagoon area and the Mackenzie Basin. The Central South Island Region game bird season is open until July 27th for waterfowl species: mallard duck, grey duck, NZ shoveller duck, black swan and pūkeko. 
    Otago region Game bird hunters across the Otago region are gearing up for what looks to be an encouraging start to the 2025 season. Despite a change in monitoring approach this year, Otago Fish & Game officers are optimistic about duck numbers throughout the region following favourable breeding conditions. Anecdotal reports from across the region suggest promising populations in multiple areas. Reports from South Otago and West Otago note substantial bird numbers, while good numbers have been observed in the Taieri and the Maniototo areas. Five ranger teams will be checking compliance at both private and public hunting locations across Otago on Opening Weekend. Hunters are reminded to make firearms safe, present game bird licences when requested and follow rangers’ instructions. 
    Wellington region A period of settled conditions across the lower North Island will come to an abrupt end just in time for the start of the season with rain and a strong southerly moving through late on Friday. While Opening Weekend weather looks a little calmer – cloudy with showers and westerlies – the forecast big southerly system will certainly stir birds up and get them moving for Opening Day, which is excellent news for hunters in the lower North Island. Our recent aerial trend counts for mallards in the Wellington Fish & Game region reveal a strong population, with higher numbers recorded in both the Wairarapa plains and Manawatu areas than this time last year. Large congregations of birds have been observed on small ponds and dams near recently harvested maize crops. The later-than-normal harvest means there is plenty of crop still to come in, and this will likely have kept ducks localised. Good numbers of mallards have also been holding on the big water, such as Lake Wairarapa, and loafing on the larger rivers in the region, like the Manawatu. 
    Southland RegionThe Southland region is expecting a strong season this year. The spring breeding season was productive, with favourable conditions leading to higher duckling survival. This has resulted in a good number of younger birds in the population, which are generally easier to hunt. Southland Fish & Game has recently completed pre-season mallard monitoring flights. While some areas, particularly Northern Southland, showed higher counts, mallard numbers across the region are sitting around the long-term average. This is good news for hunters, as it points to a typical Southland season with steady numbers, plenty of opportunity, and the prospect of a memorable opening weekend followed by a rewarding season overall. At this stage, the forecast is pointing toward still, calm conditions.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Energy Sector – Equinor first quarter 2025 results

    Source: Equinor

    30 APRIL 2025 – Equinor delivered adjusted operating income* of USD 8.65 billion and USD 2.25 billion after tax in the first quarter of 2025. Equinor reported net operating income of USD 8.87 billion and net income at USD 2.63 billion. Adjusted net income* was USD 1.79 billion, leading to adjusted earnings per share* of USD 0.66.

    • Strong financial and operational performance
    • Strong financial results and cash flow
    • Solid oil and gas production 
    • Strategic progress 
    • Successful start-up of the Johan Castberg and Halten East fields
    • Final investment decision on Northern Lights phase 2.

    Capital distribution

    First quarter cash dividend of USD 0.37 per share
    Proposed second tranche of share buy-back of up to USD 1.265 billion
    Expected total capital distribution for 2025 of up to USD 9 billion.

    Anders Opedal, President and CEO of Equinor ASA:
    “Equinor delivers strong financial results in the first quarter. I am pleased to see the good operational performance and solid production capturing higher gas prices. With the current market uncertainties, Equinor’s core objective is safe, stable and cost efficient operations and resilience through a strong balance sheet.”

    “We maintain a competitive capital distribution and expect to deliver a total of USD 9 billion in 2025.”

    “The production start-up of the Johan Castberg field strengthens Norway’s role as a reliable energy exporter to Europe. The field opens a new region in the Barents Sea and is expected to contribute to energy supply, value creation and ripple effects for at least 30 years to come.”

    “We have invested in Empire Wind after obtaining all necessary approvals, and the order to halt work now is unprecedented and in our view unlawful. This is a question of the rights and obligations granted under legally issued permits, and security of investments based on valid approvals. We seek to engage directly with the US Administration to clarify the matter and are considering our legal options.”

    Solid production

    Equinor delivered a total equity production of 2,123 mboe per day in the first quarter, down from 2,164 mboe in the same quarter last year.

    The operational performance for most of the fields on Norwegian continental shelf is strong, including the Johan Sverdrup and Troll fields. This almost offsets the negative production impact from the shut-in at Sleipner B after the fire in fourth quarter 2024 and planned and unplanned maintenance at Hammerfest LNG.

    In the US, production increased from the same period last year. This was due to increased production from the fields and transactions increasing Equinor’s ownership interest in onshore gas assets in 2024.

    The production from the international upstream segment, excluding US, is down compared to the same quarter last year, due to exits from Nigeria and Azerbaijan in 2024.

    The total power generation from the renewable portfolio was 0.76 TWh, on par with the same period last year.

    In the quarter, Equinor completed five offshore exploration wells on the NCS with two commercial discoveries.

    Strong financial results

    Equinor delivered adjusted operating income* of USD 8.65 billion. and USD 2.25 billion after tax* in the first quarter of 2025. The results are driven by solid gas production and higher gas prices.

    Equinor realised a European gas price of USD 14.8 per mmbtu and realised liquids prices were USD 70.6 per bbl in the first quarter.

    Adjusted operating and administrative expenses* increased from the same quarter last year driven by overlift, higher maintenance activity and some one-off costs. This was partially offset by active measures to reduce costs for business development and early phase projects in renewables and low carbon solutions.

    A strong operational performance generated a cash flow from operating activities, before taxes paid and working capital items, of USD 10.6 billion for the first quarter. Equinor paid one NCS tax instalment of USD 3.09 billion in the quarter.

    Cash flow from operations after taxes paid* ended at USD 7.39 billion.

    Organic capital expenditure* was USD 3.02 billion for the quarter, and total capital expenditures were USD 4.50 billion.

    Equinor continues to demonstrate capital discipline and strengthen financial robustness with a net debt to capital employed adjusted ratio* of 6.9% at the end of the first quarter, compared to 11.9% at the end of the fourth quarter of 2024.

    Empire Wind 1

    After quarter close, Equinor received a halt work order from the US government on the offshore construction on the outer continental shelf for the Empire Wind project. The lease was obtained in 2017 and the project was fully permitted in 2024. It has a potential for delivering power to half a million New York homes, and is approximately 30% to completion.

    Equinor is complying with the order and is seeking dialogue with the proper authorities and assessing legal options. The Empire Wind project has per
    31 March 2025 a gross book value of around USD 2.5 billion, including South Brooklyn Marine Terminal.

    Strategic progress

    A major milestone was reached when production was started from the Johan Castberg field in the Barents Sea on 31 March. Production also started at the Halten East development in the Norwegian Sea, with estimated recoverable reserves of 100 million boe and one year pay-back time.

    Equinor continues to optimise and strengthen long-term value creation on the NCS, and was awarded 27 new production licenses in the Awards in Predefined Areas round (APA) in January. The ambition is to drill around 250 exploration wells on the NCS by 2035.

    In the quarter, the Bacalhau floating production, storage and offloading vessel (FPSO) arrived at its destination in the Santos Basin in Brazil’s pre-salt region. First oil is expected in 2025.

    Within low carbon solutions, Equinor together with partners Shell and TotalEnergies made a final investment decision to progress phase two of the groundbreaking Northern Lights carbon transport and storage development in Øygarden. The NOK 7.5 billion investment is expected to increase the total injection capacity from 1.5 million tonnes of CO2 per year (Mtpa) to at least 5 Mtpa and further develop the commercial market for transport and storage of CO2.

    The appraisal wells for carbon storage at Smeaheia were completed in the quarter on time and on cost.

    Competitive capital distribution

    The board of directors has decided a cash dividend of USD 0.37 per share for the first quarter 2025, in line with communication at the Capital Markets Update in February.

    Expected total capital distribution for 2025 is USD 9 billion, including a share buy-back programme of up to USD 5 billion. The board has decided to initiate a second tranche of the share buy-back programme of up to USD 1.265 billion. The second tranche is subject to an authorisation from the company’s annual general meeting 14 May 2025 and will commence after this. The tranche will end no later than 21 July 2025.

    The first tranche of the share buy-back programme for 2025 was completed on 24 March 2025 with a total value of USD 1.2 billion.

    All share buy-back amounts include shares to be redeemed by the Norwegian State.

    *For items marked with an asterisk throughout this report, see Use and reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures in the Supplementary disclosures.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall Leads Kansas Delegation Republicans Asking President Trump for Support After Severe Kansas Storms

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    GARDEN CITY – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) led Republican members of the Kansas federal delegation in asking President Donald Trump to support the state’s request for a federal disaster declaration and public assistance funding to ensure necessary repairs and rebuilding of public infrastructure following multiple rounds of severe weather in March 2025. In addition to Senator Marshall, the letter is signed by U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kansas) and U.S. Representatives Tracey Mann (R-Kansas-01), Ron Estes (R-Kansas-04), and Derek Schmidt (R-Kansas-02).
    Kansas was impacted by two back-to-back strong, mid-latitude cyclone storm systems that moved through the state March 14 – 19. The systems brought strong winds, low humidity, blowing dust, and blizzard conditions. According to the National Weather Service, the near-record low pressure in one of the systems measured close to the pressure found in a category 1 hurricane.
    Upon approval of the disaster declaration, local governments and public utility providers would be eligible to submit storm-related expenses to FEMA for reimbursement.
    In the letter, the members wrote: 
    “We write today in support of Governor Laura Kelly’s request for a major disaster declaration for the state of Kansas following the severe winter storms, straight-line winds, flooding, and wildfires that swept across the state March 14–19, 2025. The impact of this storm system cannot be adequately described, as it ultimately led to the demolition of essential infrastructure and the tragic loss of life. It is imperative that federal support is provided to allow our communities to recover from the damage.
    “The severe weather that impacted Kansans in March was recognized by the National Weather Service as ‘two back-to-back strong mid-latitude cyclone storm systems’ that brought ‘strong winds and low humidity, which exacerbated extreme fire conditions, brought blowing dust, and created blizzard conditions. Both systems had near-record low pressure, with the system on the 14th measuring close to the pressure found in category 1 hurricanes.’
    “The storms moved across Kansas in two separate but equally damaging systems, impacting all corners of the state and creating measurable damage in nearly one-third of the state’s counties. Due to the impacts on rural infrastructure and municipal and cooperative-owned utilities, federal assistance is needed to help electrical providers and municipalities cover the costs of repairing and replacing vital infrastructure.
    “The state of Kansas has estimated more than $8.5 million in damage that would be eligible for public assistance funding.
    “We would like to express our support for the Governor’s request to the Administration to provide assistance to the state of Kansas. We look forward to federal support being made available swiftly to support local governments and utility providers in their efforts to respond to the desolation left by these natural disasters.”
    Click HERE to read the full text of the letter.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth Slams VA Official for Refusing to Commit to Rehiring Veterans Crisis Line Workers Fired by Elon Musk’s DOGE

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth

    April 29, 2025

    Senator also condemned Trump’s disastrous cuts worsening Veterans’ access to mental health care

    [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of both the U.S. Senate Committees on Veterans’ Affairs (SVAC) and Armed Services (SASC)—slammed a senior official from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) after he failed to publicly commit to rehiring Veterans Crisis Line (VCL) workers who were fired in Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s indiscriminate mass layoffs of federal workers. Duckworth pressed the VA official on the importance of maintaining robust mental health and suicide prevention resources for Veterans amid the Trump Administration’s ongoing cuts to the VA, which have already made it harder for Veterans to access quality health care. Video of Duckworth’s remarks can be found on her YouTube.

    “From the mass layoffs of federal workers, including Veterans working with the Crisis Line, to canceled contracts and continued attacks on Veterans belonging to underserved communities, Donald Trump and Elon Musk are intentionally attacking morale and exacerbating mental health workforce shortages at the VA,” said Duckworth. “It is unacceptable that Trump’s VA refuses to fix their errors and reinstate all VCL workers who have been fired, especially as the Trump Administration’s policies continue to undermine the mental health and well-being of patriotic Americans who have served our nation honorably. We cannot endure more chaos at the risk of delaying mental health care and suicide prevention services for our Veterans.”

    During her questioning, Duckworth highlighted how she has advocated for several workers with VCL and pressed Thomas O’Toole, MD—the Acting Assistant Undersecretary for Health for Clinical Services and Deputy Chief Medical Officer of the VA—on whether he would commit to rehiring all VCL workers fired by Elon Musk—essential workers who provide emergency mental health services to Veterans in crisis. After Mr. O’Toole refused to make that commitment, Duckworth replied, “I think it should be more than just the people being handled by my office. There are many people across the country who have now been laid off who have worked on Veterans’ mental health programs. Those people need their jobs back—especially if they themselves are Veterans.”

    Duckworth has been a fierce leader and advocate for our Veterans who have been fired in the disastrous Trump-Musk layoffs across our federal workforce. Earlier this month, Duckworth introduced a resolution to condemn these layoffs and demand the immediate reinstatement of all Veteran federal employees illegally and indiscriminately fired since Trump took office—a resolution Republicans blocked.

    This resolution came after Duckworth and U.S. Senator Andy Kim (D-NJ) introduced their Protect Veteran Jobs Act last month, legislation that would reinstate the thousands of Veterans who were fired in the Trump-Musk layoffs. Duckworth and Kim subsequently introduced their legislation as an amendment to Republicans’ slush fund continuing resolution. Republicans shamefully blocked it from passing.

    In February, Duckworth also joined SVAC Ranking Member Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and a group of 34 Democratic Senators calling on Department of VA Secretary Collins to immediately reinstate the more than 1,000 VA employees terminated earlier that month who serve Veterans and their families nationwide, including critical employees addressing Veteran suicide working at the Veterans Crisis Line.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: A century of service for Nyah Nyah West

    Source:

    Nyah Nyah West brigade members

    Nyah Nyah West Fire Brigade has proudly marked 100 years of service over the weekend, celebrating the centenary with a community open day, luncheon and medal presentation.

    More than 70 community members attended the anniversary event on Sunday, 27 April to thank volunteers for their dedication.  

    Nyah Nyah West Fire Brigade Captain Phillip Maher said he is very proud to have led the brigade through this significant milestone.  

    “The brigade has been such an important part of the town since 1925, and we hope to see it remain that way for the next 100,” Phillip said.  

    Before amalgamating as a single brigade in July 2012 when it was decided there would no longer be urban and rural fire brigades within the CFA, previously, the brigade was made up of the Nyah West Urban Fire Brigade and the Nyah Rural Fire Brigade. 

    Following in his father’s footsteps, Phillip has dedicated thirty years to the brigade and is now in his fifth year of captaincy. Over this time, Phillip has witnessed the restructure firsthand, alongside technological advancements and improvements that have shaped the brigade into what it is today.  

    “With both brigades working closely together previously out of the same building, it was a fairly smooth transition”, Phillip said.  

    “It’s incredible to see how far we have come from what was two small brigades into now one strong, united team.”  

    The brigade has seen significant fleet and uniform upgrades over the years.  

    “We are very privileged to have a modern firefighting fleet, with diesel-powered trucks and a four-wheel drive vehicle. They are a bit different from the trucks we used back in the day,” Phillip said. 

    “When I started, we would turn up in our workwear or whatever was on the truck. Now, we’ve got appropriate uniforms, structural gear and helmets.”  

    The brigade has responded to several significant fires over their 100 years of dedication. 

    “From the 1983 Ash Wednesday fires to the 2003 Victorian Alpine bushfires, 2019/2020 bush fires and more recently the Grampians and Little Desert fires, our crews have stepped in to help,” Phillip said. “We are really proud to still be here serving the community one hundred years later. It’s a credit to every member, past and present, who has worn the uniform and stood up for the community.”  

    As Nyah Nyah West Fire Brigade enters its second century, Phillip hopes to see recruitment numbers and local engagement continue to rise.  

    “Everybody is always welcome, and no contribution is too small.” 

    Submitted by CFA Media

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley Moves to Declassify FBI Analysis of Nellie Ohr’s Criminal Referral

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    WASHINGTON – Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) today requested Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Kash Patel declassify the FBI’s analysis of a congressional criminal referral issued for Nellie Ohr following her false statements to Congress in 2018.

    Grassley transmitted the mostly unclassified FBI analysis document to Patel, along with an accompanying cover letter. The public letter outlines Ohr’s obstructive conduct and makes the case for declassification.

    “As you are aware, Nellie Ohr played a key role in the genesis of Crossfire Hurricane while working for Fusion GPS and coordinating with her husband, Bruce Ohr, who was a Justice Department official at that time,” Grassley wrote. “The [FBI’s] document provides background with respect to Crossfire Hurricane’s origins as well as the criminal case against Nellie Ohr.”

    “I request that a full declassification be done immediately for the following reasons,” Grassley continued: “(1) the document is largely unclassified and the portions that are classified are at a very low level of classification; (2) the information that is classified is similar to the information subject to declassification Executive Orders for Crossfire Hurricane records issued by President Trump in 2020 and 2025 and, at this point, may already be declassified; (3) other Crossfire Hurricane document declassifications separate from those Executive Orders occurred in the first Trump term; (4) the overriding public interest.”

    “Declassification of the document in full would be consistent with past practices and to the benefit of public transparency and accountability. There is no legitimate basis to keep the document from the public,” Grassley concluded.

    Read the full cover letter HERE.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Delivers Remarks Honoring Fred Wertheimer As He Receives The Senator Paul H. Douglas Award For Ethics In Government

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    April 30, 2025

    In his remarks, Durbin praised the Paul Douglas Award recipient, Fred Wertheimer, for his dedication to strengthening American democracy

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today delivered remarks honoring Fred Wertheimer, this year’s recipient for the University of Illinois System’s Senator Paul H. Douglas Award for Ethics in Government.  In his remarks, Durbin praised Mr. Wertheimer’s work as founder and President of Democracy 21, a nonpartisan, nonprofit dedicated to strengthening American democracy, safeguarding election integrity, and promoting government accountability.

    Named for the late Illinois Senator, the Senator Paul H. Douglas Award for Ethics in Government is presented to a person whose public actions and contributions have demonstrated a deep understanding and respect for ethical behavior and standards in government.  Past recipients include former President Barack Obama, the late Senator Paul Simon, the late Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, the late Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens, Dr. Anthony Fauci, and former Representative Liz Cheney.

      

    Photos of Durbin delivering his remarks can be found here.

    Durbin’s remarks as prepared for delivery are below:

    U.S. Senator Dick Durbin Remarks at Paul Douglas Award Ceremony

    April 30, 2025

    As prepared for delivery

    Thank you, President Killeen, for those kind words.  I want to welcome my dear friends, Jean Douglas Bandler and Ned Bandler, Senator Douglas’s daughter and son-in-law, his great-grandson, Matthew Douglas.

    It is always an honor to join the Douglas family, the University of Illinois, and its outstanding Institute of Government and Public Affairs in presenting the Senator Paul H. Douglas Ethics in Government Award.

    People ask me how I’ve survived 42 years in Congress.  The short answer is:  I try to follow the Gospel of St. Paul—by which I mean, I try to follow the examples of Paul Simon and Paul Douglas.

    They showed me that the bedrock of a long career in public service is a commitment to honesty and integrity.  Without that North Star to guide you, you are liable to get lost. I’ve seen it happen. 

    Paul Douglas held himself to high ethical standards—even stronger than Congress required—because he understood when people lose faith in their government, democracy crumbles.  That basic truth is also what has driven Fred Wertheimer for more than 50 years.

    I have known Fred for many of those years.  I admire him greatly.  I am also a big fan of his brilliant wife, Linda Wertheimer.  We’re honored that you could join us, Linda.

    For more than five decades—first at Common Cause and then at Democracy 21—he has been a leading voice in advancing the causes of honesty and integrity in government, free and fair elections, and protecting Americans’ right to vote.  The bedrock issues of democracy.

    Fred Wertheimer is not intimidated by Big Money or long odds, and he is not afraid of bullies—which means he is exactly the kind of leader America needs, urgently, now.

    Today is Day 101 of the second Trump Administration.   If America had been invaded by a hostile nation, I’m not sure they could have done so much damage, in such a short period of time, to our economy, our democracy, and our standing in the world.

    What would Professor Paul Douglas say about an Administration threatening to withhold federal funding for education and research—and jeopardizing universities’ solvency–in order to dictate what can be taught, and who can teach?

    What would economist Paul Douglas think of a President who needlessly drives up costs for America’s families and businesses and harms the global economy at risk by waging an

    incoherent trade war against our foes and allies?

    Our government is being dismantled, essential services are being crippled, and tens of thousands of federal workers are being fired, many illegally, on instructions from the richest man on Earth, who bought his influence in this Administration with hundreds of millions of dollars in cold, hard campaign cash.

    The autocrats and oligarchs are at the gate.  If Paul Douglas were here, he would be appalled, as we all should be.

    So, what do we do to save our democracy?  First, we need to break the corrupt chokehold of unlimited, unaccountable special interest money on our elections and public policies. 

    Second, we need to protect the right to vote.

    I know that you are committed to both of these imperatives, Fred, and I am with you.

    Finally, we must safeguard the independence and integrity of the judiciary.

    During the Biden Administration, Democrats held a majority, and I held the gavel on the Senate Judiciary Committee. And the Senate confirmed 235 federal judges of impeccable character and qualifications—including Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson.

    These and other federal judges are now holding the line against his most serious assaults on the rule of law.  We must continue to defend this line.  Without the rule of law, there is no democracy.

    In 1970, when John Gardner founded Common Cause, he knew he wanted Fred Wertheimer to spearhead its campaign finance reform efforts.  He warned Fred that that, quote: “Reform is not for the short-winded.”

    Fortunately, in the race to make our democracy more open, honest, and accountable, Fred Wertheimer is a long-distance runner and a champion.  He is a leader for these times, and a worthy recipient of the 2025 Senator Paul H. Douglas Ethics in Government Award.

    Congratulations on this well-deserved honor, Fred, and thank you for your decades of service to our democracy.

    And now, it is my pleasure to introduce Senator Douglas’ great-grandson Matthew Douglas, who is representing the Douglas family.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Mesa Man Indicted for Torching Tesla Property

    Source: US State Government of Utah

    Today, a federal grand jury in Phoenix returned a five-count indictment against Ian William Moses, 35, of Mesa, Arizona for Maliciously Damaging Property and Vehicles in Interstate Commerce by Means of Fire.

    The charging documents filed in the case allege that Moses was at the Tesla dealership in Mesa shortly before 2 a.m. on Monday, April 28, wearing a dark hooded sweatshirt, tan ballcap, grey pants, black boots, and a black mask. He also carried a red plastic gas can and a black backpack. While in the Tesla parking lot, Moses was captured on video as he placed fire starter logs next to the dealership building. Moses then poured gasoline onto the starter logs, the building, and three Tesla vehicles. At around 1:38 a.m., Moses ignited the starter logs, causing a fire that destroyed a silver Tesla Cybertruck. Video shows Moses leaving the dealership on a dark colored bicycle shortly thereafter.

    Mesa police officers arrested Moses approximately a quarter mile from the Tesla dealership at around 3 a.m., still dressed in the same clothes as he was seen wearing at the scene. After his arrest, officers found a hand drawn map of the area in Moses’ pocket, which included a box with the letter “T” marking the dealership’s location.

    “If you engage in domestic terrorism, this Department of Justice will find you, follow the facts, and prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “No negotiating.”

    “ATF’s Special Agents and forensic investigators, working with the FBI and local partners, quickly recovered and analyzed critical evidence following this deliberate attack,” said ATF Acting Director Dan Driscoll. “This attack poses a serious threat to public safety and the ATF remains committed to aggressively pursuing anyone who endangers our communities through violence or destruction.”

    “There is nothing American about burning down someone else’s business because you disagree with them politically,” said U.S. Attorney Timothy Courchaine for the District of Arizona. “These ongoing attacks against Tesla are not protests, they are acts of violence that have no place in Arizona or anywhere else. If someone targets Tesla with violence, they will be found and confronted with the full force of the law.”

    “I would like to recognize the dedicated work of the Mesa Police and Mesa Fire Departments on this case,” stated ATF Special Agent in Charge Brendan Iber. “Cooperation with our law enforcement partners acts as a multiplier in our efforts to remove violent criminals from the streets and make our communities safer. The professionalism and extensive investigative knowledge of the police and fire investigators within our arson taskforce cannot be overstated.”

    “My office will be engaged in this investigation, and I’m pleased to be able to share our expertise,” said Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell. “We have a high level of success in prosecuting these types of crimes. My office stands ready to assist our federal law enforcement partners in the prosecution of this individual.”

    “I would like to recognize the outstanding efforts of the Superstition District Patrol officers who played a crucial role in this investigation. Their swift action in identifying and monitoring the suspicious van parked near the dealership was critical to the success of this operation. I am truly grateful for their diligent police work,” said Mesa Police Chief Ken Cost. “Special thanks also go to the Mesa Police specialty units and the partnering agencies involved. Your collaboration was instrumental in bringing this suspect to justice and enhancing the safety of our community.”

    Each count of conviction for Malicious Damage to Property in Interstate Commerce carries a minimum penalty of five years and up to a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000.

    The investigation in this case is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the FBI, Mesa Police Department, and the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Raymond K. Woo, District of Arizona, Phoenix, is handling the prosecution.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL OSI USA News –