NewzIntel.com

Category: Natural Disasters

  • MIL-OSI Russia: More broadcasts from the Moscow Zoo are now available on mos.ru

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    From March 26, during the zoo’s opening hours, users of the mos.ru portal will be able to see online what the Himalayan bears are doing on their walks, what the red panda is fed, and how the raccoons are having fun. Cameras are installed in the outdoor enclosures, and you can watch the video broadcasts daily.

    “With the launch of new broadcasts, more and more animals will become closer and more accessible to visitors of the mos.ru portal. You can watch our inhabitants during the zoo’s opening hours. Viewers can witness unique moments of feeding, games, training and social interaction between animals. This is not just an opportunity to watch rare and endangered species, but also a chance to immerse yourself in their world, understand the behavior and habits of animals,” said Svetlana Akulova, General Director of the Moscow Zoo.

    The broadcasts will allow you to observe for two Himalayan bears, female Fanya and male Vasya, living in the old territory of the zoo. They were taken from dealers at the end of 2022. The animals were in an extremely emaciated state, they were kept in cramped cages. Zoologists surrounded the clubfooted bears with round-the-clock care and developed an optimal diet for them. Gradually, the bears began to gain weight and recover. Now each of them lives in their own spacious enclosure. This year, Fanya went into hibernation for the first time in two years. Vasya needs more time to rebuild his biological rhythms; he did not sleep this winter.

    Nowadays, Himalayan bears are active during the daytime. In extreme cold or heat, the animals may go indoors.

    Thanks to the installed cameras it will be possible to observe andfor the red panda Ryzhik. The animal leads a predominantly crepuscular lifestyle. Ryzhik arrived in Moscow in the fall of 2015 from Poland. The male comes out of the house several times a day, mostly in the morning or early evening hours.

    Red pandas, also called fire foxes for their bright fur, are excellent tree climbers. However, they feed mainly on the ground. Although these animals are representatives of the order of predators, 95 percent of their diet consists of young leaves and bamboo shoots. The remaining five percent consists of various fruits, berries, mushrooms, bird eggs and even small rodents.

    Other inhabitants of the zoo, which can now be watched online on mos.ru, are: family of raccoons. This is Titi, a mother of many children, and her three children: Akim, Grusha, and the youngest, Shonya.

    There is a stream in the enclosure, in which the raccoons splash with visible pleasure, confirming their name. The animals are especially interested in the trees growing in the enclosure – the raccoons do not just climb them, they sleep high in the trees, curled up in a ball and from a distance resembling bird nests. There are many objects in their enclosure: ladders suspended between the trees, which the animals climb with pleasure, hollows in which they find many delicacies placed there by the zoo staff. In this way, the animals can use their abilities and demonstrate natural behavior when getting food.

    The Department of Information Technology added that video broadcasts are available to residents of the entire country. At the same time, users can not only watch their pets, but also learn more about the peculiarities of their life in their natural habitat.

    “Each animal on zoo.mos.ru has its own page, where you can not only watch a live broadcast from the enclosure, but also read interesting facts and get to know the animal better. Now the majority of visits are to the pages of everyone’s favorites – the little panda Katyusha and her parents Dindin and Zhui, the manul Timofey and the capybaras. You can watch the animals in real time from any device – a smartphone, tablet or computer,” said Boris Frolov, Deputy Head of the Department of Information Technology of the City of Moscow.

    Broadcasts from the Moscow Zoo enclosures have been launched on the mos.ru portal in the fall of 2024. Every day, visitors can observe the lives of the Pallas’s cat, giant pandas, lynxes, elephants, pygmy hippopotamuses, meerkats, honey badgers, capybaras and camelids, as well as gorillas and orangutans.

    Indian stingless bees appear at Moscow ZooSobyanin: Moscow Zoo takes first place in the world in species diversity

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

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/151793073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Death toll rises to 18 as deadly wildfires rage in S. Korea’s southeastern region

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    The death toll rose to 18, with 19 others injured, as deadly wildfires continued to rage in South Korea’s southeastern region, government compilation showed Wednesday.

    Since last Friday, medium and large wildfires have broken out in six regions, especially in Gyeongsang province, affecting at least 17,534 hectares of land, according to the central disaster and safety countermeasures headquarters.

    Firefighters struggled to contain the rapidly spreading blazes, fueled by strong and dry winds.

    Of the wounded, six people suffered serious injuries.

    The number of affected buildings and structures, such as houses, factories and cultural assets, climbed to 209, while more than 26,000 people remained evacuated.

    The country’s forest service raised the wildfire crisis alert to the highest level while thousands of firefighters as well as helicopters and vehicles were mobilized to combat the wildfires.

    The military also deployed service members and helicopters to help fight the blazes. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: US National Security Advisor claims responsibility for leaked chat of Yemen military plan

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    U.S. National Security Advisor Mike Waltz has assumed “full responsibility” for a leaked group chat discussing an upcoming strike in Yemen.

    “I take full responsibility. I built the group,” Waltz said in an interview with Fox News Channel on Tuesday.

    “It’s embarrassing. We’re going to get to the bottom of it,” he said on the channel’s “The Ingraham Angle.”

    Jeffrey Goldberg, editor-in-chief of The Atlantic, wrote on Monday that he was invited on March 11 to join a group chat named “Houthi PC Small Group” on Signal, a popular encrypted messaging app used by journalists and government officials.

    Upon joining, he discovered that several high-ranking officials, including Waltz, Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, were discussing plans for a forthcoming strike on the Houthis in Yemen.

    “According to the lengthy Hegseth text, the first detonations in Yemen would be felt two hours hence, at 1:45 p.m. eastern time,” Goldberg recalled in his article. “So I waited in my car in a supermarket parking lot. If this Signal chat was real, I reasoned, Houthi targets would soon be bombed. At about 1:55, I checked X and searched Yemen. Explosions were then being heard across Sanaa, the capital city.”

    The incident is widely considered a major national security breach, prompting Democratic lawmakers to demand answers from the White House in multiple letters.

    U.S. President Donald Trump defended Waltz in front of reporters at the White House on Monday. “I don’t think he should apologize,” he said. “I think he’s doing his best. It’s equipment and technology that’s not perfect.”

    According to Fox News, Trump has no plan to fire Waltz over the incident.

    During an interview with NBC News on Tuesday, Trump said that a staffer from Waltz’s office inadvertently included Goldberg in the group chat. He also claimed that this had “no impact at all” on the airstrikes in Yemen. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Interview with Peter Fegan, 4BC, Brisbance

    Source: Australian Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Industry

    Peter Fegan:

    It’s Labor’s $17 billion pledge. But is it enough to save the election? The Labor Party or the government has delivered its fourth Budget last night. Plenty of savings, but given the cost‑of‑living crisis, we’re in no position to bite the hand that could potentially feed us for the next 3 years, at least. Joining me on the line is the Treasurer, Jim Chalmers. Treasurer, it is always great to have your time on the programme.

    Jim Chalmers:

    Thanks for having me back on your show, Pete. Good morning.

    Fegan:

    $268 in tax cuts in the first year, which is 2026. That’s $538 in the second. You’ve conceded, Treasurer, that that is modest cuts. It equates to about $5 a week. You add in the Stage 3 tax cuts, that will be around $56 bucks a week. So, when you consider how much groceries, fuel, beer, health, childcare, aged care is; most Australians would say that $50 bucks doesn’t go very far at all.

    Chalmers:

    I understand that, Pete. I understand that there’s always an appetite to do more. My job is to make sure that we’re providing this cost‑of‑living relief in the most responsible way that we can. The tax cuts are an important part of that, that $50 a week in income taxes is all about helping people but so is strengthening Medicare because more bulk billing means less pressure on families.

    So are the energy rebates, the cheaper medicines, cutting student debt. There are a number of ways that we’re providing cost‑of‑living help in the Budget, but we’ve got to do that in the most responsible way. We know that there will always be calls to do more. We’re doing the most that we can afford to do for the time being.

    Fegan:

    Treasurer, I would argue what is missing from this Budget are tough decisions, serious structural reforms and addressing the elephant in the room. We know what that is, Treasurer. It’s spending. Now, there’s $40 billion set aside for decisions not yet announced. That means that the Prime Minister has another $40 billion up his sleeve to throw around during the election campaign. So, let’s just call this Budget what it is. It’s a Budget to win the election. Surely.

    Chalmers:

    I don’t agree with you, Pete. It’s a Budget to build the future and to help people with the cost of living and strengthen Medicare. Those are the 3 primary objectives of the Budget. It’s all about making our economy more resilient in the face of all this global economic uncertainty. That’s what’s motivated us here when it comes to this Budget.

    Now, when it comes to spending, about half of the new spending in the Budget is the tax cuts. A big proportion of the rest of it was already provisioned for in the mid‑year Budget update. We’ve been responsible, we’ve gone for what’s affordable and we’ve done that in the context where we have taken difficult decisions. There are billions of dollars in savings.

    There is much less debt this year in the Budget than when we came to office 3 years ago in terms of the $177 billion less debt this year. We are making good progress in the budget. We’re making especially good progress in the economy more broadly. We know that that doesn’t always immediately translate into how people are feeling and faring in the economy. That’s why the cost‑of‑living help is so important.

    Fegan:

    Migration. 260,000 new migrants will flood into Australia by the end of July, the majority of which will come into Australia. Now Treasurer, historically yes, migration does help fuel economy, we know that. But unfortunately, here in Australia we have a living crisis, we have a housing crisis.

    We have a major supply issue here in Queensland. You know that, you live in Logan. You know how bad supply is at the moment. Are you putting them up? Because I don’t know where 260,000 new migrants will go. I know that they’ll work. But we’re in a housing crisis. It doesn’t make sense to me.

    Chalmers:

    Two important things about that, Pete. Firstly, we’re investing $33 billion in building more homes.

    Fegan:

    But you haven’t built any yet though, Treasurer. That’s the issue. You haven’t built any new homes yet. That’s the big issue here. You can invest all your money, all the money you want. You can’t put them in camps until they’re built.

    Chalmers:

    We are building new homes. We’re making a very substantial investment in making sure that’s the case. Secondly, you refer to those migration numbers. Those migration numbers have actually been very substantially managed down from their peak after COVID. When Australia more or less shut down during COVID in the year or 2 after that, couple of years after that, there was a big rebound in the net overseas migration number spanning 2 governments.

    We’ve been able to manage that down to more normal levels. That is what you’re seeing in the budget. That number that you refer to is right, but it is much lower, very, very substantially lower than it was a couple of years ago.

    Fegan:

    Okay, Treasurer, this is an interesting one and I think all eyes will be on this when it comes to the election.

    Let’s talk energy.

    Okay, Treasurer, the Prime Minister and yourself and all your Ministers all maintain that energy prices are lower under a Labor government. So, why has the government, if that’s the case – if we are paying less for energy, why has the government spent $6.8 billion on energy subsidies to date? Is that not an abject failure of the last 3 years? And your energy policy, why give Australians another $150 bucks if, according to Labor, energy is affordable? I don’t understand it. I mean, if it is affordable, I don’t need the $150 bucks.

    Chalmers:

    This is another important way that we’re helping people with the cost of living. We know that in the last year in the official inflation data, we were able to get electricity prices down. That’s a good thing. That’s been a combination of rebates, but also the efforts that we’re making to introduce more cleaner and cheaper energy into the system.

    If you think about the independent experts from a body called AEMO, what they talk about is what’s pushing electricity prices up is actually the old parts of the system, the traditional parts of the system, becoming less and less reliable.

    We’re providing these energy rebates in the near term to take some of the sting out of these electricity bills while people are under cost‑of‑living pressure. At the same time, we’re introducing more cleaner and cheaper, more reliable energy into the system because that’s the best way to put downward pressure on energy prices over the medium and long term.

    Fegan:

    Yeah, there’s no. But there’s no funding for green energy. There’s no funding for net zero.

    Chalmers:

    That’s not true, Pete.

    Fegan:

    Well, there’s no extra funding. Is there, in this Budget? Is there extra investment in –

    Chalmers:

    Yeah, there’s some extra investment out of an innovation.

    Fegan:

    How much?

    Chalmers:

    For about one and a half billion, I think from memory.

    Fegan:

    But it’s not in Budget. Is it in Budget papers released?

    Chalmers:

    Yeah, it’s in the Budget papers. We’ve also recapitalised the Clean Energy Finance Corporation because that’s playing an important role as well, financing cleaner and cheaper energy.

    I accept your broader point. Electricity prices are a pressure on family budgets we’re seeing around the world. We’re not immune from that. The energy bill rebates are an important, responsible way that we take some of the edge off that while we introduce more cleaner and cheaper, and more reliable energy into the system.

    Fegan:

    Treasurer, why should Australians trust Anthony Albanese and Jim Chalmers for another 3 years?

    Chalmers:

    I think after the Coalition’s brain explosion on tax last night, the choice at the election is becoming absolutely crystal clear now. We’re helping people as a Labor government with the cost of living by cutting their taxes. Peter Dutton has an agenda of secret cuts which will make people worse off. Now, Peter Dutton wants to cut everything except people’s taxes, and that’s really the contest which was set up last night when Angus Taylor, quite bizarrely, said that he would oppose our cost‑of‑living help.

    What we’ve seen over the course of the last 3 years is every time we’ve tried to help people with the cost of living, our opponents have opposed that. Peter Dutton and Angus Taylor have both said the best predictor of future performance is past performance. They have opposed cost‑of‑living help; they’re opposing these cost‑of‑living tax cuts in the Budget last night.

    I think that sets up a very clear choice. If people want a Labor government helping with the cost of living, managing the budget responsibly, investing in building Australia’s future, they can choose that over Peter Dutton, who has secret cuts which will make people worse off, and that’s because he wants to cut everything except taxes.

    Fegan:

    Do you accept that Australians don’t trust you?

    Chalmers:

    I don’t necessarily accept that, Pete. I mean, that’s a judgement for people to make. I understand that, and it’s something that journalists and commentators can speculate about. What we did last night was keep faith with the Australian people and do justice to the progress and the sacrifices that they have made. Together as Australians, we’ve made a lot of progress in our economy. We’ve got –

    Fegan:

    But a trillion dollars in debt. A trillion dollars, though, Treasurer?

    Chalmers:

    It’s $177 billion this year lower than what it was when we came to office for this year. That’s a really important thing. You will read a lot of stuff in the papers about debt and deficits. Don’t forget, we delivered 2 surpluses, we shrunk the deficit, we got the debt down, we’re saving on interest costs.

    Fegan:

    But it’s still a trillion dollars. You grilled the former government on this. It’s still a trillion dollars. And I know it’s not all your fault, but it’s a trillion dollars. We’ve got kids that need to buy homes in 20 years’ time.

    Chalmers:

    That’s why we’re investing substantially in housing, $33 billion program. On the debt, don’t forget, we would have already had a trillion dollars of debt under our opponents. It’s $177 billion lower this year. I think that’s too easily dismissed and diminished the progress we’ve made in the budget. Same goes for the progress we made in the economy together as Australians.

    As I was saying a moment ago, we’ve got growth rebounding solidly in our economy: inflation down, real wages up, unemployment is low, interest rates have started to be cut, we’ve got the debt down. This is good progress, and we would be crazy to interrupt that progress with Peter Dutton’s secret cuts which would make Australians worse off.

    Fegan:

    What’s happening with the Coalition at the moment, Treasurer? Seems to be some rumblings. I hear or see reports yesterday that Peter Dutton had to lay down the law, that David Littleproud got pretty fired up.

    Chalmers:

    Yeah, they got fired up because basically the Coalition members and senators are forming an orderly queue to say that Angus Taylor’s not up to the job. It’s quite bizarre that Angus Taylor’s asking Australians to take him seriously when his own colleagues don’t. He’s been found out and he’s been found wanting.

    I think genuinely, it was a proper brain explosion we saw last night when he said, at a time when people are under cost‑of‑living pressures, they won’t support our tax cuts to help people meet the cost of living. I think that was a bizarre decision. I think it will come back to haunt him, and I think his colleagues will have a view about it behind the scenes.

    Fegan:

    Treasurer, you’re on the front page of every paper today, but can I just say congratulations to you because you are drinking out of a Brisbane Broncos mug. How good is that?

    Chalmers:

    I get a bit of feedback about that. Mostly from Dolphins, mostly from people –

    Fegan:

    Well, do you know what? You’re still a staunch. You’re still a staunch Bronco supporter. Right?

    Chalmers:

    Pick and stick. Absolutely.

    Fegan:

    Thank you.

    Chalmers:

    Broncos until I die, Pete.

    Fegan:

    Because I see that Peter Dutton has changed his tune a little bit. He’s now, well, Dolphins is in his electorate. A little bit of his electorate. Well, I don’t know.

    Chalmers:

    Right. I’m not sure about that. In fairness to him, I’m not sure about that. I’m certainly, I will always be a very enthusiastic supporter of the Brisbane Broncos. I still remember their first game in the comp in 1988 as a little tacker. I’m looking forward to watching the Battle of Brisbane on Friday night. Always a good contest.

    Fegan:

    Go the Broncos. Yeah, exactly. Go the Broncos. Good on you, Treasurer. Great to have your company this morning.

    Chalmers:

    Nice to talk to you again, Pete. All the best.

    Fegan:

    There he is, the Treasurer, Jim Chalmers.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Can renewable energy survive climate change?

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    The race towards renewable energy is accelerating, and for all the looming challenges of the climate crisis, signs of progress are there: Solar panels are beginning to blanket deserts, wind turbines dot coastlines, and hydropower dams are harnessing powerful rivers to churn out clean electricity.

    Yet, even as the push for renewables gains momentum – driven by cheaper technology and an urgent need to slash carbon emissions – experts are waving cautionary flags: Because renewable energy sources depend on weather conditions, climate change is increasingly dictating, and jeopardizing, renewable energy production.

    This trend became more pronounced in 2023, marked by a volatility that disrupted renewable energy generation globally. Temperatures soared 1.45°C above pre-industrial levels, and the shift from La Niña to El Niño altered rainfall, wind patterns, and solar radiation.

    Hamid Bastani, a climate and energy expert with the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), provided a stark example of this impact. “In Sudan and Namibia, hydropower output dropped by more than 50 per cent due to unusually low rainfall,” he said in an interview with UN News.

    In Sudan, rainfall totaled just 100 millimeters (less than four inches) in 2023—less than half the national long-term average.

    “This is a country where hydropower makes up around 60 per cent of the electricity mix. These reductions could have significant implications,” Mr. Bastani explained, noting that the power system supports a large and rapidly growing population of about 48 million.

    These shifts were not limited to hydropower. Wind energy, too, showed signs of stress under changing climate conditions.

    China, which accounts for 40 per cent of global onshore wind capacity, saw only a modest 4 to 8 per cent increase in output in 2023, as wind anomalies disrupted generation. In India, production declined amid weaker monsoon winds, while some regions in Africa experienced even sharper losses, with wind output falling by as much as 20 to 30 per cent.

    South America, meanwhile, saw the scale tip in the other direction. Clear skies and elevated solar radiation boosted solar panel performance, particularly in countries like Brazil, Colombia, and Bolivia.

    As such, the region saw a four to six per cent increase in solar generation – a climate-driven bump that translated to roughly three terawatt-hours of additional electricity, enough to power over two million homes for a year at average consumption rates.

    “This is a good example of how climate variability can sometimes create opportunity,” explains Roberta Boscolo, who leads WMO’s New York Office and formerly the agency’s climate and energy work. “In Europe, too, we are seeing more days with high solar radiation, meaning solar power is becoming more efficient over time.”

    Ms. Boscolo and Mr. Bastani are among the contributors to a recent WMO–IRENA study examining how climate conditions in 2023, shaped by El Niño, global warming, and regional extremes, affected both renewable energy generation and energy demand worldwide.

    ADB/Patarapol Tularak

    Solar power accounted for over 73 percent of all new renewable capacity added globally in 2023, making it the fastest-growing source of energy worldwide.​

    Systems built on stability, in a world that is anything but

    Ms. Boscolo, who has spent years working at the intersection of climate science and energy policy, is quick to point out the vulnerability of renewable energy infrastructure. Dams, solar farms, and wind turbines are all designed based on past climate patterns, making them susceptible to the changing climate.

    Take hydropower. Dams rely on predictable seasonal flows, often fed by snowmelt or glacial runoff. “There will be a short-term boost in hydropower as glaciers melt,” she said. “But once those glaciers are gone, so is the water. And that is irreversible – at least on human timescales.”

    This pattern is already unfolding in regions like the Andes and the Himalayas. If the meltwater disappears, countries will need to replace the way they generate power or face long-term energy deficits.

    A recent report from the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), for example, pointed out that rising sea levels and stronger storms pose growing risks to energy production facilities, including solar farms located near coastlines.

    Similarly, increasingly intense and frequent wildfires can also take down power lines and black out entire regions, while extreme heat can reduce the efficiency of solar panels and strain grid infrastructure—just as demand for cooling peaks.

    Nuclear power plants are also at risk in the changing climate.

    “We have seen nuclear power plants that could not operate because of the lack of water… for cooling,” Ms. Boscolo said. As heatwaves become more frequent and river levels drop, some older nuclear facilities may no longer be viable in their current locations.

    “This is another thing that should be looked at with different eyes in the future . When we design, when we build, when we project power generation infrastructure, we really need to think about what the climate of the future will be, not what was the climate of the past”.

    IMF/Crispin Rodwell

    Global renewable electricity capacity grew by nearly 50 percent in 2023—the largest annual increase in two decades—with most additions coming from solar and wind.​

    Adapting to the future through data, AI and technology

    The expert underscores that one thing is certain: Our planet is heading towards a future in which electricity, especially from renewable sources, will be central.

    “Our transport is going to be electric; our cooking is going to be electric; our heating is going to be electric. So, if we do not have a reliable electricity system, everything is going to collapse. We will need to have this climate intelligence when we think about how to change our energy systems and the reliability and the resilience of our energy system in the future.”

    Indeed, to adapt, both experts emphasized a need to embrace what they call climate intelligence – the integration of climate forecasts, data, and science into every level of energy planning.

    “In the past, energy planners worked with historical averages,” Mr. Bastani explained. “But the past is no longer a reliable guide. We need to know what the wind will be doing next season, what rainfall will look like next year – not just what it looked like a decade ago.”

    In Chile, for instance, hydropower generation surged by as much as 80 per cent in November 2023, due to unusually high rainfall. While this increase was climate-driven, experts say advanced seasonal forecasting could help dam operators better anticipate such events in the future and manage reservoirs to store water more effectively.

    Similarly, wind farm workers can use forecasts to schedule maintenance during low-wind periods – minimizing downtime and avoiding losses. Grid operators, too, can plan for energy spikes during heatwaves or droughts.

    “We now have forecasts that span from a few seconds ahead to several months,” Mr. Bastani said. “Each one has a specific application – from immediate grid balancing to long-term investment decisions.”

    WMO/Sandro Puncet

    Improved climate forecasting can help energy systems plan days to seasons ahead.

    Artificial intelligence (AI) is lending a hand: Machine learning models trained on climate and energy data can now predict resource fluctuations with higher resolution and accuracy. These tools could help optimize when to deploy battery storage or shift energy between regions, making the system more flexible and responsive.

    “These models can help operators better anticipate fluctuations in wind, rainfall, or solar radiation”, Mr. Bastain explained.

    For example, two recent WMO energy mini projects illustrated how artificial intelligence can be applied in real-world renewable energy planning. In Costa Rica, the agency worked with national energy authorities to develop and implement an AI-based model for short-term wind speed forecasting. The tool is now integrated into the Costa Rican Electricity Institute’s internal energy forecasting platform, helping optimize operations at selected wind farms.

    In Chile, another project focused on floating solar technology, using AI to estimate evaporation rates on reservoirs. The results, now incorporated into Chile’s official Solar Energy Explorer platform, showed that floating solar panels can reduce water evaporation by up to 85 per cent in summer, with a national average of 77 per cent.

    Indeed, the promise and challenge of climate-smart renewable planning are most evident in the Global South. Africa, for instance, boasts some of the best solar potential on the planet, yet only two per cent of the world’s installed renewable capacity is found on the continent.

    Why the gap? Ms. Boscolo points to a lack of data and investment.

    “In many parts of the Global South, there just is not enough observational data to create accurate forecasts or make energy projects bankable,” she said. “Investors need to see reliable long-term projections. Without that, the risk is too high.”

    WMO is working to improve weather and energy monitoring in underserved regions, but progress is uneven. The agency is calling for more funding for local data networks, cross-border energy planning, and climate services tailored to regional needs.

    “This is not just about climate mitigation,” Ms. Boscolo added. “It is a development opportunity. Renewable energy can bring electricity to communities, drive industrial growth, and create jobs if the systems are designed right.”

    Mr. Bastani sees a need for global data sharing between energy companies and climate scientists.

    “There is a huge untapped potential in the data collected by the private sector… integrating historical and real-time observations from power plants – solar, wind, hydropower, even nuclear – can significantly improve weather and climate models. This is a win-win.”

    IMF/Lisa Marie David

    Climate forecasting helps energy companies anticipate weather-driven changes in supply and demand, improving reliability and reducing risk.

    Diversifying the energy portfolio to adapt

    Another key action to guarantee clean energy in the near future is diversification. Relying too heavily on only one renewable source can expose countries to seasonal or long-term shifts in climate, Mr. Bastani explains.

    In Europe, for example, energy planners are increasingly concerned about something called “dunkelflaute”— a period of cloudy, windless weather in winter that undermines both solar power and wind generation. This phenomenon, linked to high-pressure systems known as anticyclonic gloom, has prompted calls for more energy storage and backup power.

    “A diversified mix that includes solar, wind, hydro, battery storage, and even low-carbon sources (like geothermal) is essential,” Mr. Bastani said. “Especially as extreme weather becomes more frequent.”

    Into the future

    As the world races towards a future powered by renewable energy, addressing the challenges posed by climate change is imperative. The volatility experienced in 2023 underscores the need for climate-smart planning and infrastructure that can withstand unpredictable shifts in weather patterns.

    For renewable energy to truly fulfill its promise, the world must invest not only in expanding capacity but also in building a system that is resilient, adaptable, and informed by the best available climate science.

    WMO experts Hamid Bastani and Roberta Boscolo emphasize the importance of integrating climate intelligence into energy systems to ensure their reliability and resilience. By leveraging advanced forecasting and artificial intelligence, we can better anticipate and adapt to these changes, optimizing renewable energy production and safeguarding our future.

    The future of energy is not just about more wind turbines and solar panels, but also about ensuring they can withstand the very forces they are meant to mitigate.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Roxy’s rocky rescue

    Source:

    As the sun was setting over Safety Beach on Tuesday night crews from SES, CFA, Victoria Police, FRV, and members of the community worked together to free a dog that had become stuck in the rocks.

    Crews responded just before 7pm and after a long and careful operation to remove Roxy from the rocks that create the breakwater for the entrance to Martha’s Cove, the crews were then faced with the challenge of getting the injured dog off the rocks. 

    Roxy was unable to walk after her ordeal, the crews had the options of carrying Roxy over the rough terrain or waiting for a boat to arrive from Marine Rescue or Coast Guard to take her by sea. 

    Light was fading quickly as a Jet Ski operator passed by slowly, allowing firefighters to ask his assistance.

    He was happy to help however, the sore Roxy didn’t much like the idea of getting on board. 

    Eventually a boat returning to the dock came along, hoping to be in by dark they were swept willingly into the rescue operation. 

    With surgeon like precision, the boat’s captain manoeuvred his craft close to the rocks near the rescuers.

    Roxy, safely in a stretcher, and her owner were then able to board the vessel and return safety to dock. 

    “This is a great example of the community coming together to assist strangers, without question or hesitation” Commander Tony Ford said. 

    “We really would like to thank the boat and Jet Ski operators for coming to the assistance of the rescue operation” he said. 

    “And the good news is the Roxy was able to walk off the boat and jump in the family wagon waiting at the end of the pier.” 

    Submitted by CFA Media

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Police investigating after man taken into custody at Goodwood

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Police investigating after man taken into custody at Goodwood

    Wednesday, 26 March 2025 – 3:04 pm.

    Police are continuing to investigate after a man was taken into custody at Goodwood earlier today.
    About 9.30am police were called to a disturbance at a private residence at Claremont where a man was behaving erratically while in possession of an edged weapon.
    The man then allegedly stole a vehicle and fled the scene before police arrived. Nobody was physically injured.
    Police will allege the man then drove to Goodwood where he crashed into a building in the Technopark area and entered the premises.
    Police arrived within minutes and the man was quickly taken into custody.
    A woman, believed to have been known to the man, received minor injuries during an altercation with him.
    She was taken to the Royal Hobart Hospital.
    The building at Goodwood was evacuated and declared a crime scene.
    A second crime scene was declared at the Claremont residence before police were called to a residence at West Moonah following reports of a fire. 
    That property has also been declared a crime scene, and police are investigating whether the fire is connected to the incidents at Claremont and Goodwood.
    Nobody was home at the time of the fire.
    Inspector Jason Klug said the suspect -– a 55-year-old West Moonah man – remained in custody. 
    “This is a concerning incident, involving a private workplace, and we recognise the impact this may have on staff as well as the broader community,” he said.      
    “However, we’d like to reassure the public the suspect was quickly taken into custody and there is no ongoing threat.”
    Anyone with information should contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: The 2025 federal budget fails the millions of voters who want action on Australia’s struggling environment

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Timothy Neal, Senior lecturer in Economics / Institute for Climate Risk and Response, UNSW Sydney

    Commentators have branded last night’s federal budget as an attempt to win over typical Australian voters concerned about the cost of living, ahead of what is expected to be a tightly fought federal election.

    The budget’s big-ticket items included tax cuts and energy bill relief, plus measures to make childcare and healthcare cheaper.

    There was little in the budget dedicated to stemming Australia’s environmental crises. Given this, one might assume the average voter cares little for action on conservation and curbing climate change. But is this true?

    Polling suggests the clear answer is “no”. Voters consistently say they want more government action on both conservation and climate change. As the federal election looms, Labor is running out of time to show it cares about Australia’s precious natural environment.

    What environmental spending was in the budget?

    The main spending on the environment in last night’s budget had been announced in the weeks before. It includes:

    These measures are welcome. However, the overall environment spending is inadequate, given the scale of the challenges Australia faces.

    Australia’s protected areas, such as national parks, have suffered decades of poor funding, and the federal budget has not rectified this. It means these sensitive natural places will remain vulnerable to harms such as invasive species and bushfires.

    More broadly, Australia is failing to stem the drivers of biodiversity loss, such as land clearing and climate change. This means more native species become threatened with extinction each year.

    Experts say conserving Australia’s threatened species would cost an extra $2 billion a year. Clearly, the federal budget spending of an extra $50 million a year falls well short of this.

    And global greenhouse gas emissions continue to increase. This contributes to ever-worsening climate change, bringing heatwaves, more extreme fires, more variable rainfall and rising seas.

    Contrary to what the federal budget priorities might suggest, Australians are concerned about these issues.

    What does the average voter think about the environment?

    Results from reputable polling provide insight into what the average voters want when it comes to environmental policy and spending.

    When it comes to conservation, the evidence is clear. Polling by YouGov in October last year (commissioned by two environment groups) estimated that 70% of Australians think the Labor government should do more to “protect and restore nature”. The vast majority of voters (86%) supported stronger national nature laws.

    Essential Research polling in October 2023 found 53% of voters think the government is not doing enough to preserve endangered species. About the same proportion said more government action was needed to preserve native forests, and oceans and rivers.

    On climate change, the average voter appears to have views significantly out of step with both major parties. The Australia Institute’s Climate of the Nation report last year found 50% of voters believed the government was not doing enough to prepare for and adapt to climate impacts.

    The report also found 50% of voters supported a moratorium on new coal mines in Australia, 69% support charging companies a levy for each tonne of carbon pollution they emit, and 69% are concerned about climate change.

    Also in 2024, a Lowy Institute poll found 57% of Australians supported the statement that “global warming is a serious and pressing problem, and that we should take steps now to mitigate it even if it involves significant costs”.

    There’s a caveat here. As the cost-of-living crisis has worsened, the issue has edged out all others in terms of voter concerns at the upcoming election.

    For example, in January this year, Roy Morgan polling found 57% of voters considered cost of living one of their top-three issues of concern. Only 23% considered global warming a top-three issue.

    However, global warming was still more of a concern for voters than managing the economy (22%), keeping interest rates down (19%) and reducing taxes (15%). It was tied with reducing crime (23%).

    It’s also important to note that climate change and cost-of-living pressures are not separate issues. Research suggests that as climate change worsens, it will cause inflation to worsen.

    Labor’s unmet election promises

    The singular focus on the cost of living in last night’s federal budget means environmental spending has been neglected.

    Context matters here. Labor has utterly failed to deliver its 2022 election promise to rewrite federal environmental protection laws and create an environmental protection agency.

    The government could have used this budget to repair its environmental credentials going into the next election – but it didn’t. The many voters concerned about the environment might well wonder if Labor considers the environment a policy priority at all.

    The upcoming election result may show whether minor parties and independents better reflect the Australian electorate’s views on this important issue.

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

    – ref. The 2025 federal budget fails the millions of voters who want action on Australia’s struggling environment – https://theconversation.com/the-2025-federal-budget-fails-the-millions-of-voters-who-want-action-on-australias-struggling-environment-253099

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla Blasts Trump Executive Order Attempting to Disenfranchise Millions of American Voters

    US Senate News:

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

    Padilla Blasts Trump Executive Order Attempting to Disenfranchise Millions of American Voters

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration and California’s former Secretary of State, issued the following statement condemning President Donald Trump’s harmful executive order that threatens to disenfranchise millions of American voters and undermines Congress’ authority over the administration of federal elections and the independence of the Election Assistance Commission:

    “As former California Secretary of State and Ranking Member of the Senate Rules Committee, I know full well that President Trump’s executive order does nothing to improve the safety of our federal elections — what it would do is disenfranchise millions of eligible American voters. 

    “President Trump is a notorious election denier. He lacks the authority to implement many of the changes laid out in this illegal executive order, which also ignores the requirements set forth in the bipartisan Help America Vote Act.

    “Free and fair elections are the foundation of our democracy and attempts by the President to make it harder for eligible voters to participate hurts all Americans, regardless of party. I stand ready to work with anyone on responsible solutions to improve election security and increase voter participation, but this sham order is not the answer. I will keep fighting against the Trump Administration’s brazen attempts to undermine our elections, and will work to protect American voters.”

    As Ranking Member of the Rules Committee, which has oversight over federal elections, Senator Padilla has fought against President Trump’s unprecedented attacks against election security. Last week, Padilla and Senator Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) led 29 Democratic Senators in urging Attorney General Pam Bondi to continue the essential work of the Department of Justice’s Election Threats Task Force, which directs the Department’s efforts to protect election officials from rising threats and acts of violence. Last month, he pressed senior officials at CISA for answers after they fired employees who have worked to combat election misinformation. During his first business meeting as Rules Committee Ranking Member, Padilla highlighted threats to election security and the importance of free and fair elections. Additionally, Padilla expressed serious concerns about the dangerous implications for elections following President Trump’s executive order purporting to bring independent regulatory agencies under total control of the White House. Padilla previously denounced the illegal firing of Federal Election Commission (FEC) Chair Ellen Weintraub and led 10 Democratic Senators to demand President Trump rescind his attempt.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Interview with Sarah Abo and James Bracey, Today Show, Channel 9

    Source: Australian Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Industry

    James Bracey:

    Now more on the Albanese government’s fourth federal Budget. Jim Chalmers catching the country off guard with a surprise tax cut for every Australian, a move the Coalition is calling an election bribe.

    Sarah Abo:

    And the Treasurer joins us live now from Parliament House in Canberra. Good morning to you, Treasurer, or should I call you the re‑election salesman with a Budget like that? $5 a week barely buys a cup of coffee. Can it buy an election?

    Jim Chalmers:

    It’s more than that, Sarah, that’s the first point. If you combine the 3 tax cuts that Labor is providing, it’s around $50 a week on average. It’s not the only cost‑of‑living help that we’re providing. We know that cost of living is front of mind for most Australians and it’s absolutely front and centre in the Budget. The tax cuts, strengthening Medicare, cheaper medicines, cutting student debt, providing energy bill rebates. This is all about providing the most cost‑of‑living help that we can in the most responsible way that we can.

    Bracey:

    Treasurer, why across the whole board, for everyone with this tax cut? We spoke to Kirsty earlier, cafe owner, mother of 7, who says the $5 bucks a week just won’t touch the sides.

    Chalmers:

    That’s only one of the 2 tax cuts that we’re providing, and 3 in total in our time in office, the average –

    Abo:

    But why is it for everyone Treasurer?

    Chalmers:

    The average is $50 a week. That’s the first point.

    Abo:

    Shouldn’t you prioritise the first 2?

    Chalmers:

    When you cut the bottom rate of tax, it flows right up and down the income scale, so it’s a tax cut for every taxpayer. These are modest tax cuts, they’re responsible tax cuts, but they’re meaningful when you take them in combination with the tax cuts which are flowing already, we’re topping up those tax cuts and we’re also providing cost‑of‑living relief in other ways.

    Abo:

    It’s barely going to help those top part of the brackets, as you know but it will, if it was doubled, be more of an impact for those underneath. I mean, there is still a big household onus now to find savings. The cost‑of‑living pressures are unlikely to change in the short term.

    Chalmers:

    That’s why we’re helping people with the cost of living. We’ve made a lot of progress together as Australians on inflation and in our economy more broadly. The Australian economy is turning a corner and that’s a very good thing. But we know that there’s more work to do. That’s why we’re providing more cost‑of‑living help and that’s why it beggars belief that the Coalition is opposing this cost‑of‑living relief.

    What it means for the election is that it’s a simple choice between Labor cutting taxes to help with the cost of living versus Peter Dutton’s secret cuts which will make people worse off. Peter Dutton wants to cut everything except income taxes and that will be part of the choice that we’ll be asking people to make at the election.

    Bracey:

    There really is no Treasurer budget for an election and you set aside a further billion dollars for that election. What is up your sleeve?

    Chalmers:

    I don’t agree with that characterisation. It’s a budget about building Australia’s future and strengthening Medicare and helping with the cost of living. When it comes to that line in the Budget about decisions taken but not announced, that’s actually very small by historical standards. There are good reasons to have a small amount of money provisioned for in that way. If you compare that with earlier budgets, that line item is actually incredibly small.

    Abo:

    The surpluses are firmly in the review mirror, aren’t they, Treasurer? I mean, what a legacy; 10 years of deficit. Now you’re staring down extraordinary debt as far as the eye can see and without a real concrete plan to pay for it.

    Chalmers:

    I think it’s unusual, Sarah, that your question doesn’t acknowledge that when we came to office there were only deficits, and we turned 2 of them into surpluses and we shrunk the deficit for this year. We’ve made a lot of progress in the Budget. We’ve helped engineer the biggest ever nominal improvement in the Budget position in a single parliamentary term. More than $200 billion improvement, much less debt than what we inherited from our predecessors and that’s making a structural improvement to the budget as well. We have got the budget in better nick. We’re providing responsible cost‑of‑living help, we’re strengthening Medicare and we’re investing in the future of this country. And we’re doing that in the most responsible way that we can.

    Bracey:

    There’s a legitimate crisis in amongst all this though, Treasurer. The tobacco taxes collapsed to a 14‑year low. It’s blown a $17.6 billion hole in the tax base. Meanwhile, we see fire bombings almost daily, fuelling the black‑market wars that are going on as we speak. So, what will the government be doing about it all?

    Chalmers:

    There are 2 reasons why tobacco excise goes down. One of them is a good reason, one of them is a bad reason. The good reason is more and more people giving up the darts, which is what we want to see. But the bad reason is the case that people are finding more ways around tobacco excise. That’s why we’ve invested a substantial amount of money in new resources for compliance and enforcement. We do know there’s an issue. We acknowledge that. That’s why we’re trying to resource some more compliance and some more enforcement, because there has been some leakage in the Budget in that regard.

    Abo:

    Long night for you, Treasurer, and an early start. Thank you for joining us this morning and speaking to our audience. Appreciate it.

    Chalmers:

    Nice to talk to you both. Thank you.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Brigades gear up for the final week of State Championships

    Source:

    We saw our firefighters of tomorrow kick off 2025 CFA/VFBV State Firefighter Championships last weekend, but there is more to come with our Senior Urban and Senior and Junior Rural teams gearing up for the final weekend.

    The friendly competition will continue as a new batch of participants, supporters and families are set to return to Mooroopna Recreation Reserve across the weekend, 29 and 30 March, to close out the competition.  

    The first weekend of the Championships was a success, with Melton A bringing home the title of Urban Junior Champions after a very close battle.  

    CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan was pleased to see the excitement of the eager youngsters over the weekend and looks forward to seeing the competition continue to reach new heights. 

    “The Championships are an important and much-loved event on the CFA calendar and go a long way to build and grow the future of the organisation and our next generation of firefighters,” he said. 

    “For our seniors the competition is an opportunity to strengthen and showcase their firefighting skills as well as meet up with old friends and make new ones.  

    This weekend will see more teams compete, among them will be teams from Osbourne Park who are a group of teams from a range of brigades in the broader area. 

    The unique team set up is a way for those at brigades who don’t have a team to take part in.  

    Col Jordan helped establish the Osborne Park group eight years ago to keep the sport alive and give people a chance to take part.  

    Col has been passionate about the sport since he was a teenager.  

    “As a 17-year-old I got invited down to a training session and I guess I took to it like a duck to water,” he said.  

    “I really enjoy it is a team sport; I have played a lot of different sports in my life, and I find this the most rewarding. 

    “It is a great sport and has a long history.” 

    The Osborne Park teams sure stand out on the track in their fluro work wear uniforms.  

    “When we started, I wanted a uniform that was easy to get and also affordable for people, so we settled on the fluro workwear,” Col said. 

    This year for the first time Osborne Park has a women’s team competing who will be proudly wearing fluro pink.  

    “Everyone is welcome,” Col said. 

    “We have members from all over the district, we have members ranging from 16 to 64. 

    “You build up a team, and together you do your best.” 

    He said the support the teams get from parents, grandparents, and other community supporters is what keeps the teams running; whether it is in judging, committee representation, or helping out at competitions it really takes a lot of people to keep the sport going.   

    Col said it would be a bonus to take home a trophy or two from seniors’ weekend but that the real aim was working together and having a great time as a team.  

    “This is as a way of getting people, both juniors and seniors, involved and giving them the opportunity to be really involved with the brigades,” he said.  

    “It provides a form of team building and camaraderie.” 

    The Torchlight Procession will take place following the competition on Saturday 29 March from 8pm on the Midland Highway in Mooroopna near Mooroopna Recreation Reserve.  

    Submitted by CFA Media

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: 50 Years of Good Friday in Lakes Entrance

    Source:

    Lakes Entrance Fire Brigade is this year celebrating 50 years of collecting for the Good Friday Appeal.

    Lakes Entrance Fire Brigade is this year celebrating 50 years of collecting for the Good Friday Appeal. 

    Over their incredible 50 years of fundraising the brigade has raised a total of $607,155.31 

    The appeal began in Lakes Entrance over 50 years ago when local barber Billy Bills was asked to coordinate the effort.  

    Billy was motivated to take on the role because of a well-known local boy who was living at the Royal Children’s Hospital with Spina Bifida. 

    After Billy’s passing his son, Alan Bills, continued the work for over 30 years until ill health led him to pass the responsibility to Area Manager and Lakes Entrance Brigade member John Upton.  

    John, along with his daughter Lesley Garth, continue to coordinate the appeal today. 

    John said it is amazing to have watched the appeal grow into what it is today.  

    “It is a pretty good effort for a small town like ours to keep it going, to keep collecting, and to keep supporting the cause,” he said. 

    Fundraising efforts started with a collection point at Billy’s own home, with a focus around can collection and support from local businesses.  

    John said the support from local businesses has only grown in recent years and he is thankful to have such a supportive community behind the brigade’s efforts.  

    “Over time, raffles were introduced, and CFA members, their partners, and children all became involved,” he said.  

    “Families assisted with collections at caravan parks, using a fire truck to attract attention. 

    “Fire trucks and community buses filled with children collect from local houses, and we hold raffles at several evening venues.” 

    Brigade Captain Phil Loukes said it has become a real community event and it’s heartwarming to see the brigade still going strong after 50 years of collecting.  

    “It is a whole brigade thing, it is absolutely embraced by all of the brigade,” he said.  

    “Lakes has really suffered first from covid and then from the 2019/2020 bushfires, we haven’t really recovered so our community has been amazing in supporting us.” 

    The Good Friday Appeal became personal for John after his granddaughter was diagnosed with cancer when she was 18 months old. 

    John’s own children and another grandchild also needed to rely on the services of the RCH. he said it is a special place that deserves all the help it gets.  

    “It is an absolute necessity to make sure the kids are okay,” he said. 

    He said many members of the brigade and the broader community have been touched by the world class care of the Royal Children’s Hospital. 

    “The RCH is unique and a very important place for kids who need it,” he said 

    “The legacy that those early people have left, they built a really strong foundation and as a brigade it is a highlight.  

    “It pulls people together with a common goal.” 

    John said the totals the brigade sees each year are a testament to the hard work of so many people behind the scenes including brigade life member Graeme Adams and his wife Truus who have been involved since the very beginning.   

    “None of this would have been possible without the ongoing support of CFA members, their partners, children, and the broader community,” John said. 

    “To anyone out there please give as generously as you can as you can afford to, even just a few cents, it all goes a long way.” 

    This year, CFA volunteers are aiming to surpass $40 million in total funds collected for the Good Friday Appeal across 74 years. 

    On Good Friday call 1300 APPEAL between 9am and 11pm. 

    Submitted by Brittany Carlson

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Russia, US agree on energy facility categories subject to ceasefire

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Russia and the United States have agreed on a category list of energy facilities spared from being targeted during a 30-day energy ceasefire in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, according to a Kremlin statement Tuesday.

    The list includes oil refineries, oil and gas pipelines and storage facilities, electricity generation and transmission infrastructure, nuclear power plants, and hydroelectric dam facilities.

    The Kremlin added that the 30-day ceasefire on energy facilities is in effect starting from March 18 and may be extended by mutual agreement or cease to be in effect if violated by one of the parties.

    In an earlier statement, the Kremlin noted that Russia and the United States agreed to form measures to implement the 30-day ceasefire agreement.

    Russia and Ukraine held separate talks with the United States in Riyadh, capital of Saudi Arabia, on March 23-25.

    Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov said earlier in the day after the talks with the U.S. delegation that “all parties” agreed to develop measures implementing the energy facility ceasefire. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Russia, Ukraine hold parallel US-mediated talks in Saudi Arabia

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Three days of technical-level negotiations on the details of a potential ceasefire in Ukraine concluded Tuesday without an official joint statement, as participating parties offered somewhat conflicting assessments of the talks.

    The intense parallel interactions between the United States and delegations from Ukraine and Russia on the table, including a 12-hour one between the United States and Russia on Monday, and two shorter rounds between the United States and Ukraine on Sunday and Tuesday, came as fighting on the battlefield remains intense.

    Although Washington signaled on Tuesday its willingness to continue facilitating negotiations between the warring parties, analysts remain skeptical about the prospects of such a diplomatic push, citing deep-seated distrust, conflicting demands among stakeholders, and the inherent complexities of the process.

    Conflicting assessments

    For the latest talks, which build on previous negotiations held in Saudi Arabia and subsequent phone exchanges between the presidents of the three countries, the U.S. delegation included Andrew Peek, a senior director at the White House National Security Council, and Michael Anton, a senior official from the State Department. The Russian delegation was led by Grigory Karasin, chair of the Federation Council’s Foreign Affairs Committee, and Sergei Beseda, an advisor to the director of the Federal Security Service. Defense Minister Rustem Umerov headed the Ukrainian delegation.

    On Tuesday, hours after the U.S. and Ukrainian delegations concluded their second round of talks, the White House issued separate statements elaborating on its understanding of the parallel meetings.

    It stated that the United States had agreed separately with Russia and Ukraine to “ensure safe navigation, eliminate the use of force, and prevent the use of commercial vessels for military purposes in the Black Sea,” and to develop measures for implementing the presidents’ agreement to “ban strikes against energy facilities of Russia and Ukraine.”

    The United States, with Russia and Ukraine respectively, also “welcomes the good offices of third countries with a view toward supporting the implementation of the energy and maritime agreements” and “will continue working toward achieving a durable and lasting peace,” the statement added.

    Among the outcomes of the U.S.-Russia talks, the United States pledged to help restore Russia’s access to the global market for agricultural and fertilizer exports, reduce maritime insurance costs, and improve access to ports and payment systems for such transactions.

    In the U.S.-Ukraine talks, both sides reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to facilitating the exchange of prisoners of war, securing the release of civilian detainees, and ensuring the return of forcibly transferred Ukrainian children.

    Meanwhile, the Kremlin stated on Tuesday that Russia and the United States had agreed to ensure the implementation of the Black Sea Initiative, contingent on the easing of sanctions on Russia’s agricultural and food trade.

    Russia also stipulated the removal of restrictions on its food and fertilizer producers and exporters, the servicing of related Russian-flagged vessels in ports, and the supply of agricultural machinery to Russia, according to the Kremlin.

    It further announced that a “temporary moratorium” on strikes against energy facilities — including nuclear power plants, oil refineries, gas pipelines, and hydroelectric dams — would be in effect for 30 days starting March 18 and “may be extended by mutual agreement.”

    Previously, Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed on March 18 to halt attacks on energy facilities in a phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump.

    As for Kiev, while Umerov stated on Tuesday that “all parties” had agreed on the need to prohibit attacks on energy infrastructure in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, he also warned that any movement of Russian military vessels beyond the eastern part of the Black Sea would “violate the agreement’s spirit” and be considered a “threat to Ukraine’s national security.” In response, Ukraine would exercise its right to self-defense, he cautioned.

    Mixed sentiments

    Commenting on the three-day peace negotiations, Trump said the U.S. side was “in deep discussions with Russia and Ukraine,” which were “going well.”

    He added that he would look into Russia’s requests for sanctions relief.

    However, the mood is quite different for both Russia and Ukraine. Although the meetings in Saudi Arabia hinted at the possibility of a broader ceasefire, the two countries remain wary of the latest deal, voicing contrasting concerns over its implementation.

    In an interview with local media, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Moscow needs “clear guarantees” from the White House regarding the agreement on the safety of shipping in the Black Sea.

    “Given the sad experience of agreements with just Kiev, the guarantees can only be the result of an order from Washington to (Ukrainian President Volodymyr) Zelensky and his team,” Lavrov said.

    Zelensky accused the Kremlin of “lying” and “manipulating” by saying the Black Sea ceasefire depends on “sanctions,” warning that the Russians “must understand that if they launch strikes, there will be a strong response.”

    At a press conference earlier Tuesday, Zelensky criticized Washington’s decision to help restore Russia’s access to the world market for agricultural goods, dismissing it as “a weakening of the position and a weakening of sanctions.”

    The Ukrainian president said he hopes to gain clarity from an upcoming summit in Paris regarding which countries would deploy forces to enforce the peace agreements.

    “Our task is to come out with the result of understanding who we have and who is ready” to contribute forces to implement measures to halt the conflict, Zelensky said.

    In the meantime, Europe, once again finding itself sidelined in addressing the conflict, has been actively organizing support for Ukraine in recent weeks.

    French President Emmanuel Macron announced that leaders of the so-called “coalition of the willing” will meet again this week, focusing on short-term military support for Ukrainian forces and exploring long-term “security guarantees” to help sustain Ukraine’s defense. Macron’s remarks have been dismissed by the United States as “a posture and a pose.”

    The meeting in Paris with Zelensky will be the latest in a series of high-stakes gatherings among European leaders, following London’s hosting of discussions on Thursday among European military chiefs from the coalition backing Ukraine.

    Britain and France are taking a leading role in organizing Western support for Ukraine after Trump surprised Europe by initiating talks with Putin. The two European powers have pledged to help provide the military force needed to keep Russia “at bay” if a ceasefire is reached.

    Uncertain future

    Notably, the battlefield showed no signs of quieting despite the peace talks in Saudi Arabia, with both Russia and Ukraine reporting fresh waves of drone strikes and accusing each other of escalation.

    On Tuesday, the Russian Defense Ministry said Ukraine had “continued to deliberately strike Russian peaceful energy infrastructure facilities using UAVs.”

    “By continuing daily attacks on Russian energy infrastructure, Zelensky confirms his inability to negotiate and his lack of control by external guarantors responsible for ensuring compliance with any possible agreements,” the ministry said.

    In Ukraine, the number of people injured on Monday in a Russian missile strike on the northeastern city of Sumy rose to 101, including 23 children, according to the Sumy regional administration.

    Preliminary data indicated that a Russian missile struck a residential area of the city, damaging several apartment buildings and an educational institution, the Sumy Regional Prosecutor’s Office said in a statement.

    Experts have pointed out that a real, permanent peace settlement could be far off, citing deep-rooted divisions and a growing trust deficit among the stakeholders.

    Khalid Almatrafi, Bureau Chief of Asharq TV in Saudi Arabia, told Xinhua that “the escalating mutual attacks … reflect the deepening gap between the two sides and complicate any negotiating process.”

    The repeated accusations deepen mistrust and make it difficult to establish any “confidence-building measures,” which are essential for transitioning from a ceasefire to a sustainable political settlement, said Almatrafi.

    Echoing Almatrafi’s viewpoint, Abdulaziz Alshaabani, a Saudi researcher at Al Riyadh Center for Political and Strategic Studies, said that “a lack of trust” poses a major threat to reaching an agreement, “given the history of violations of agreements between the two sides.”

    “In 2022, several rounds of negotiations took place … in the end, nothing came of it,” said Andrey Kortunov, a scholar with the Valdai Discussion Club in Russia. “Over the past three years, there has been a major escalation, and the situation has changed,” making it “difficult for both sides to find compromises,” Kortunov said.

    “Given the difficulty in enforcing a halt to strikes on energy infrastructure agreed upon last week, it remains to be seen how effective the latest deal will be,” The Independent, a British online newspaper, reported.

    The newspaper also questioned Washington’s motives in assuming the mediator’s role, particularly concerning Ukraine’s mineral and energy resources.

    “The Trump administration has claimed that Washington’s stake in Ukraine’s minerals and energy resources could deter Russia from launching future attacks,” but such a diplomatic push would, in fact, grant Washington “a vast stake in Ukraine’s rare earth mineral deposits,” it said.

    “Ukraine’s gas infrastructure could also be of interest to the White House, with Kiev owning the world’s third-largest underground gas storage capacity,” it noted. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 4.2-magnitude quake strikes Hebei: CENC

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    A 4.2-magnitude earthquake struck the county of Yongqing in Langfang, north China’s Hebei Province at 1:21 a.m. Wednesday (Beijing Time), according to the China Earthquake Networks Center (CENC).
    The epicenter was monitored at 39.42 degrees north latitude and 116.60 degrees east longitude. The quake struck at a depth of 20 km, said a report issued by the CENC.
    Tremor was felt in Beijing, and many residents in the capital received an earthquake early warning message.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Over 700 firefighters battling forest fire in E China

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    An aerial drone photo taken on March 26, 2025 shows a forest fire at the Donggushan Forest Farm in Lujiang County, east China’s Anhui Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    More than 700 firefighters are battling a raging fire in a forest farm in east China’s Anhui Province, local authorities said Tuesday night.
    No deaths or injuries were reported, and no people were trapped in the fire.
    The fire broke out at about 2:26 p.m. Tuesday in the Donggushan Forest Farm in Lujiang County in the provincial capital of Hefei, the Lujiang county emergency command center said.
    More than 700 firefighters have arrived at the site and they are still working on the night to fight the fire with the help of excavators, water spraying drones and fire tankers.
    An initial investigation showed that the fire was ignited as nearby residents burned paper money to pay respect to their ancestors. The burned area of the forest fire has not yet been determined.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: PSNA calls on NZ govt to condemn renewed Israel air strikes on Gaza – 320 killed

    Asia Pacific Report

    A national Palestinian advocacy group has called on the Aotearoa New Zealand government to immediately condemn Israel for its resumption today of “genocidal attacks” on the almost 2 million Palestinians trapped in the besieged Gaza enclave.

    Media reports said that more than 320 people had been killed — many of them children — in a wave of predawn attacks by Israel to break the fragile ceasefire that had been holding since mid-January.

    The renewed war on Gaza comes amid a worsening humanitarian crisis that has persisted for 16 days since March 1.

    This followed Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s decision to block the entry of all aid and goods, cut water and electricity, and shut down the Strip’s border crossings at the end of the first phase of the ceasefire agreement.

    “Immediate condemnation of Israel’s resumption of attacks on Gaza must come from the New Zealand government”, said co-national chair John Minto of the Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa (PSNA) in a statement.

    “Israel has breached the January ceasefire agreement multiple times and is today relaunching its genocidal attacks against the Palestinian people of Gaza.”

    Israeli violations
    He said that in the last few weeks Israel had:

    • refused to negotiate the second stage of the ceasefire agreement with Hamas which would see a permanent ceasefire and complete withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza;
    • Issued a complete ban on food, water, fuel and medical supplies entering Gaza — “a war crime of epic proportions”; and
    • Cut off the electricity supply desperately needed to, for example, operate desalination plants for water supplies.

    ‘Cowardly silence’
    “The New Zealand government response has been a cowardly silence when the people of New Zealand have been calling for sanctions against Israel for its genocide,” Minto said.

    “The government is out of touch with New Zealanders but in touch with US/Israel.

    “Foreign Minister Winston Peters seems to be explaining his silence as ‘keeping his nerve’.

    Minto said that for the past 17 months, minister Peters had condemned every act of Palestinian resistance against 77 years of brutal colonisation and apartheid policies.

    “But he has refused to condemn any of the countless war crimes committed by Israel during this time — including the deliberate use of starvation as a weapon of war.

    “Speaking out to condemn Israel now is our opportunity to force it to reconsider and begin negotiations on stage two of the ceasefire agreement Israel is trying to walk away from.

    “Palestinians and New Zealanders deserve no less.”

    A Netanyahu “Wanted” sign at last Saturday’s pro-Palestinian rally in “Palestinian Corner”, Auckland . . . in reference to the International Criminal Court arrest warrants issued last November against the Israeli Prime Minister and former defence minister Yoav Gallant. Image: APR

    ‘Devastating sounds’
    Al Jazeera reporter Maram Humaid said from Gaza: “We woke up to the devastating sounds of multiple explosions as a series of air attacks targeted various areas across the Gaza Strip, from north to south, including Jabalia, Gaza City, Nuseirat, Deir el-Balah and Khan Younis.”

    Protesters picket outside the US Consulate in Auckland today in protest against Israel resuming air strikes on the besieged Gaza enclave. Image: Kathy Ross/APR

    “The strikes hit homes, residential buildings, schools sheltering displaced people and tents, resulting in a significant number of casualties, including women and children, especially since the attacks occurred during sleeping hours.

    The Palestinian Ministry of Health in Gaza said at least 232 people had been killed in today’s Israeli raids.

    The Palestinian resistance group Hamas called on people of Arab and Islamic nations — and the “free people of the world” — to take to the streets in protest over the devastating attack.

    Hamas urged people across the world to “raise their voice in rejection of the resumption of the Zionist war of extermination against our people in the Gaza Strip”.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall Joins Senators Moran and Hawley Introducing Legislation to Provide Affordable, Reliable Energy to Kansas and Other States

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall
    Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) joined Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kansas) and Josh Hawley (R-Missouri) in introducing the Southwestern Power Administration Fund Establishment Act, which would help stabilize energy rates and improve the electric grid to states in the Southwestern Power Administration (SWPA), including Kansas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Texas. 
    Specifically, the SWPA would be granted the authority to operate on a self-funding, revolving fund. This change would allow SWPA more stable funding to lower customer rates, which can fluctuate because of market demands and severe weather. Additionally, the SWPA would have the ability to plan long-term infrastructure and power replacement improvements to avoid drastic and unnecessary spikes in power rates.
    “Kansans – especially our farmers and ranchers – need reliable and affordable power,” said Senator Marshall. “Consumers have suffered from high energy costs for too long, and this bill will help deliver stable and affordable power while improving our power grid infrastructure. I am proud to stand with Senators Jerry Moran and Josh Hawley in supporting this important legislation.”
    “It is critical that Kansans have access to reliable electricity at stable rates, especially during extreme and dangerous weather,” said Senator Moran. “This legislation will provide funding stability that will allow energy providers to make needed infrastructure improvements and prevent Kansans from suffering mass power outages.”
    “After the devastating tornadoes last weekend that left victims without power for days, Missourians deserve consistent and affordable energy,” said Senator Hawley. “This legislation will ensure that every Missourian has access to power they can rely on.”
    The legislation is supported by the Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc., Southwestern Power Resources Association, National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, and American Public Power Association.
    “Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. and its member co-ops have strongly supported the Southwestern Power Fund Establishment Act for its ability to provide appropriated dollars that will improve grid reliability while helping to stabilize rates,” said Lee Tafanelli, CEO, Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. “We thank our home state Sens. Moran and Marshall for bringing forward legislation that will have a positive impact on our rural electric cooperatives and their consumer-members.”
    “Federal hydropower is a reliably renewable generation resource,” said Nicki Fuller, Executive Director, Southwestern Power Resources Association. “This legislation recognizes the value of protecting that resource throughout the six-state region, making sure that these important assets are maintained. This legislation would go a long way toward ensuring grid reliability and affordably throughout the region for millions of homes, farms, and small businesses. I thank Sens. Moran and Marshall for introducing this important bill that represents good business sense.”
    “NRECA supports the Southwestern Power Administration Fund Establishment Act. The self-financed revolving loan fund authorized by this bill would allow the Southwestern Power Administration to better manage infrastructure needs while being more responsive to market conditions and electric demands created by extreme weather events,” – National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.
    “The American Public Power Association applauds the introduction of the Southwestern Power Fund Establishment Act. Since 1943, not-for-profit public power utilities and rural electric cooperatives have successfully partnered with the Southwestern Power Administration (SWPA) to bring reliable hydropower produced at Army Corps dams to millions of customers in Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Texas. While SWPA customers pay all costs of generating and transmitting the electricity in their power rates, a complicated funding process has increasingly failed to provide the financial certainty necessary to steady power rates to customers during drought and extreme weather events. The Southwestern Power Fund Establishment Act would streamline this process in a manner that would help avoid rate spikes and economic hardship for communities served by public power utilities and rural electric cooperatives while continuing to ensure that SWPA customers pay all costs associated with generating and transmitting hydropower produced at Corps dams. It is a win-win for the federal government and communities served by not-for-profit electric utilities,” – American Public Power Association.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ADVISORY: Governor Newsom to provide remarks promoting California’s creative economy

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Mar 25, 2025

    LOS ANGELES – Tomorrow, Governor Gavin Newsom will offer remarks at an event hosted by Vogue to announce the upcoming Vogue World Hollywood and highlight California’s recent work to promote investments in the state’s creative economy.

    WHEN: Wednesday, March 26 at approximately 10:30 a.m.

    LIVESTREAM: The event will not be livestreamed. 

    **NOTE: This in-person event will be open to credentialed media only. Credentialed media interested in attending to hear the Governor’s remarks must RSVP here by no later than 8 p.m., March 25.  The event does not include a Q/A portion. Location information and instructions will be provided by the event organizers prior to the event.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Speech to Project Auckland Luncheon

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Good afternoon, everyone. Thanks, Murray, for that introduction.  

    It’s a pleasure to be speaking with you here in New Zealand’s capital city of growth, at this launch of the Project Auckland report.  

    Can I start by acknowledging my parliamentary colleague Hon Simeon Brown. He is unquestionably the biggest advocate for Auckland I know – and is a staunch advocate for you all around the Cabinet table.  

    I also want to acknowledge Project Auckland Editor Fran O’Sullivan, Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson, and my former parliamentary colleague and boss Simon Bridges.  

    While I am a boy from Lower Hutt, I want to reassure you that I know and love this city, having lived here for two years, having many friends who live here, and am at the moment almost a weekly visitor. 

    Auckland is critical to New Zealand’s future. We are not going to be successful in growing our economy if we don’t think carefully about how we enable Auckland, as our largest and most important city, to grow and thrive. 

    That’s why government is investing heavily into transport in Auckland, through new Roads of National Significance, new busways, and commuter rail. 

    Without question, the largest of these planned investments is a second harbour crossing.  

    In fact, it will be one of the most expensive infrastructure investments in New Zealand history.  

    Our existing bridge is old, and even with the clip-on lanes, it’s expected to struggle with forecast increases in demand.   

    Despite the daunting cost, and the other challenges that come with the project, advancing an additional harbour crossing is a priority for this Government.  

    Right now, there is a barge in the harbour undertaking geotechnical, environmental, and utilities investigations of the Harbour floor – the first-time studies of this kind have been done.  

    NTZA are about to kick off early market soundings on this project, largely to help us make the decision every Aucklander is waiting for: bridge or tunnel. We expect to make that decision mid-2026. 

    Being realistic, this project won’t be built for a while yet – but Auckland doesn’t need to wait that long to experience a transformational transport project.  

    Everyone in this room knows the potential City Rail Link has to enable the growth Auckland needs. 

    Once open next year, CRL will double Auckland’s rail capacity and reduce congestion across the city, enabling Aucklanders to get to where they want to go faster. 

    It is critical for the city’s future that we take advantage of CRL and ensure that the maximum benefits are felt by Aucklanders.  

    We must focus high density, mixed-use developments around CRL stations – with as many jobs, houses, services and amenities within walking distance as possible.  

    This approach is known as transit-oriented development, and has been adopted by the world’s best and most liveable cities – think Stockholm, Copenhagen, Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Singapore. 

    Cities that embrace transit orientated development consistently outperform those that don’t across multiple metrics: they experience increases in productivity, lower unemployment, higher population growth, increased availability of homes, and more stable rents. 

    And with CRL, we have a once in a generation chance to embrace this in Auckland. 
     

    Consent decline 

    This is why I was so frustrated last week to see a resource consent application to build a $100m office building on K Road – within walking distance of the new CRL station – was denied by commissioners.   

    Frankly, this decision made me feel physically ill.  

    How can it possibly be that an 11-story building, which includes retail spaces and food and beverage stores, alongside office and commercial spaces for more than 400 people, is turned down in the centre of New Zealand’s biggest city? 

    The site it is currently planned to be on is a gravel pit. You heard that correctly. Our current planning laws are so fundamentally broken that a gravel pit in the CBD of Auckland is unable to be developed into a new office building.  

    The commissioners’ report said “The principal concern for the board is the scale of the development.” 

    Which might be more understandable if that was said about a development in a small regional town, but is astounding when there is a 20 story building within 100 metres.     

    Putting it simply, and excuse the RMA language, the commissioners when declining this application concluded that the adverse effects related to built form and appearance, streetscape, and historic heritage had not been sufficiently avoided such that the effects on the environment were considered ‘more than minor’.  

    This is precisely why we are scrapping the RMA, and replacing it with a radically more enabling system predicated on property rights. As you will have hopefully seen, I announced the architecture for our new system earlier this week.  

    A number of the changes we are progressing would have likely led to this K-Road development being approved rather than declined.  

    Our planned standardised zoning approach will help us move away from considering matters such as built form and appearance, or streetscape.  

    It will be clear what you can build and where, with fewer restrictions encouraging increased creativity in our built form – likely improving the look of our cities.    

    What I want to see in our new planning system is that development like this, due to its proximity to rapid transit and the central city, would be able to proceed without the need to gain approval at all – instead proceeding as a permitted activity through a standardised zone.  

    The other, more technical change we are proposing to make is the removal of what is known as non-complying activity status. The RMA states that a consent can only be granted for a non-complying activity if the adverse effects of the activity are minor, or the activity will not be contrary to objectives and policies of a plan. 

    In layman’s terms, this creates a barrier to some of these larger projects, with a much higher bar for approval, which sometimes is insurmountable.   

    This K-Road development was one of these non-complying activities. Remember that McDonalds in Wanaka that was declined a few weeks ago? Also a non-complying activity. That Southland windfarm that was declined last week? You guessed it: non-complying activity.  

    8-10% of all resource consent applications every year are for non-complying activities – and therefore face this sometimes impossibly high-bar.  

    By removing non-complying activities in our new system, alongside narrowing the effects considered in the planning system, we will making it substantially easier for these big projects to get approval.  
     

    PC 78 

    Moving on from K-Road – another issue that has been causing significant uncertainty for Auckland Council, as well as Aucklanders, has been the ongoing saga with it’s current plan change process, known as PC 78.  

    Auckland Council has been progressing PC 78 since mid-2022. This was the vehicle that was intended to implement the National Policy Statement on Urban Development – more commonly known as the NPS-UD, and the Medium Density Residential Standards – more commonly known as the MDRS. Apologies for the acronym soup. 

     

    The idea was that the MDRS, which enabled more density in the suburbs, and the NPS-UD, which enabled more density around CBDs and rapid transit, were both meant to be adopted by councils quickly – and the last Government gave them new planning tools to achieve this.   

    This, however, did not quite pan out. Fast forward to today, years after these were introduced, Auckland Council are still going through their plan change process to implement them. 

    In fairness to them, there have been significant challenges along the way. Cyclone Gabrielle and flooding events, and the change in Government has now made the progress of PC 78 tricky, to say the least.  

    I think Mayor Brown put it best when he called the current situation “a bit like RMA gymnastics”. 

    Following the floods, Auckland Council has seen the need to address a number of new natural hazard areas prone to flooding.  

    Unfortunately, and frankly, annoyingly, the plan change process they had to use for PC 78, does not allow downzoning. It wasn’t envisaged at the time that councils would need to do anything other than upzoning using this process, and now they are stuck.  

    The other issue is the light rail corridor. Auckland Council left this blank in PC 78, anticipating new station location announcements, which obviously did not come, as we won the election, and scrapped this wasteful project as promised. 

    We also have also communicated changes to the rules around the MDRS, as we campaigned on, therefore changing Auckland Council’s approach to PC 78 yet again. 

    These things have left Auckland Council in a very confusing situation not entirely of their own making – although I do want to say, that if they had they delivered this plan change on the timeframes originally required of them, a number of these issues would be much easier to manage now.  

    With us about to introduce a new RMA system, and this having dragged on for frankly far too long already, we want Auckland Council to bank some quick-wins for density and development now. Aucklanders have waited for too long.  

    That’s why I can confirm today that I have changed my legal  “direction”, made under the RMA, on Auckland Council on the timing and sequencing of decisions on PC 78. 

    This change will bring forward decisions on the city centre, by ten months from the previously required date of March 2026 to May 2025.  

    This will almost immediately support the enablement of thousands of dwellings and significant development potential in the heart of Auckland – where basically everyone accepts this kind of growth is critical.  

    We are able to do this because the city centre parts of PC 78 are discrete from the rest of the changes and have been through submissions and hearings already.  

    Locking in this part of the plan change as soon as possible is a massive win for our biggest city, and a massive win for economic growth.  

    For the time being, the remainder of PC 78 will still need to be completed by March 2026 as per the law.  

    I note that Auckland Council, in their submission on the Resource Management (Consenting and Other System Changes) Amendment Bill, which is currently before the Environment Select Committee, have asked for changes to enable the immediate withdrawal of the remaining parts of PC 78.  

    As this Bill is currently before Select Committee, and due to come back to Parliament later in the year, I am unable to provide comment on whether these suggestions will be incorporated.  

    However, I can confirm this is something that is being considered as part of the Committee’s process, and I’ll have more to say on this in due course.  

    I am grateful to the work of Mayor Brown and his council in advancing housing and urban outcomes for our great city of Auckland.  

    In my experience, Mayor Brown has been steadfast in his support for sensible density in the city centre, in Auckland’s metro-centres, and near key transport connections. I want to thank him for his leadership, and for bringing sense back into the density debate in Auckland.  

    This situation has without a doubt been the most complex I have had to deal with as a Minister. If anything, it underscores the urgent need for our replacement planning system.  

    Aucklanders shouldn’t need a PhD in planning or a team of lawyers to understand the progress of a major zoning change going on in their backyards. Our new system will have plans that are much more streamlined and simple, clearly communicating what Kiwis can do on their own property, without the years and years of backwards and forwards.  
     

    Conclusion  

    In conclusion, I want to repeat what I have said in my column in the Project Auckland report we are all here to launch today:  

    Auckland has a bright future. Whenever I visit Auckland, I get a palpable sense of opportunity knocking. Auckland isn’t waiting, it’s getting on with the mission of growth. It is bursting at the seams with opportunities — now, it is the responsibility of all of us to help make it happen.  

    Thank you – I will now take your questions.  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Three youths charged over series of Launceston burglaries

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Three youths charged over series of Launceston burglaries

    Wednesday, 26 March 2025 – 10:22 am.

    Three youths have been charged over a series of burglaries and stealings in Launceston between 22 March and 24 March following an investigation by Taskforce Raven and Northern CIB.
    Two 17 year old boys were charged by Northern CIB on 22 March and 23 March in relation to burglaries at a number of commercial businesses and a private residence.
    They are each facing charges of stealing, aggravated burglary, burglary, and motor vehicle stealing and will appear in the Youth Justice Division of the Launceston Magistrates Court at a later date.
    During a subsequent search of a private residence at West Launceston yesterday, members of Taskforce Raven and Northern CIB located and seized approximately $8000 worth of the stolen property and arrested a third youth.
    The 14 year old boy was charged with aggravated burglary, stealing, burglary, attempt to unlawfully set fire to property, and motor vehicle stealing.
    He was detained to appear in the Youth Justice Division of the Launceston Magistrates Court.
    During the five burglaries more than $15,000 worth of damage was caused and more than $30,000 worth of property stolen.
    Investigations into the burglaries are ongoing and anyone with information should contact Taskforce Raven on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Mid-Canterbury travellers face delays at Ealing, north of the Rangitata River Bridge, SH1 from next week

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    People who travel between Ashburton and Rangitata in Mid-Canterbury will need to build in extra time throughout April, says NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA).

    A roading contractor has become available at short notice, hence notifying people less than a week out, says NZTA.

    “We apologise for the lack of forewarning, but given the availability, we hope to make the most of this late summer sealing opportunity,” says Chris Chambers, Maintenance Contract Manager for NZTA in Mid Canterbury.

    From Monday, 31 March to the end of April, a road sealing team will repair a section of highway at the intersection of Withells Road to the west and Ealing Road to the east. There will be no work over the Easter Weekend or public holidays with crews restoring the site to two lanes at midday on Thursday, 17 April.

    Temporary traffic signals and Stop/Go will control traffic movements on the single available lane during daytime hours – 7 am to 6 pm, says Mr Chambers. However closer to the time of surfacing Stop/Go is also likely to be implemented over night to protect the surface prior to final sealing.

    “Drivers of light vehicles can take the alternative inland route between Hinds and Rangitata, SH79, to avoid having to queue,” says Mr Chambers. Otherwise, they may face delays of up to an hour. (See map for inland route below).

    Northbound drivers of light vehicles are strongly encouraged to take Scenic Route 72 (the Geraldine-Arundel Road) from Winchester into Geraldine then rejoin SH1 at Hinds or further north.

    Traffic control may be used at the single lane Upper Orari Bridge to ensure people are not delayed for long on the alternate route. SH79 has been re-sealed in recent weeks so will be suitable for all traffic by 31 March.

    Heavy vehicles

    SH1 drivers of heavy vehicles/ HPMV are requested to remain on SH1 given the fragile state of Scenic Route 72 due to flood damage.

    The section of SH1 being repaired was part of a larger reseal in May 2024. Unfortunately, only some sections of this work provided a lasting seal hence this re-work.

    NZTA thanks all drivers for planning their journeys around this section of work and taking the inland route whenever possible.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Court Sentences Felons for Illegally Possessing Firearms and Ammunition in Project Safe Neighborhoods Cases

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    FRESNO, Calif. — The Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) initiative brings together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence. At the core of PSN is setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place. Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announces the following PSN prosecutions that resulted in sentences in the beginning of 2025.

    Arturo Talamantes, 31, of Fresno, was sentenced today to four years in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to court documents, on Dec. 16, 2023, police responded to a 911 call from a crowded bar in Fresno reporting a man with a gun. When officers arrived, Talamantes had a loaded black Kahr P40 handgun that he carried through the crowded bar, ignoring officer commands to stop. Once inside, he hid the gun in a hallway storage area where officers found and seized it. Talamantes is prohibited from possessing firearms due to prior felony convictions for manufacturing a short-barreled rifle and inflicting corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant. This case was the product of an investigation by the Fresno Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

    ****

    David Diaz, 48, of Bakersfield, was sentenced on March 3, 2025, to eight years and eight months in prison for being a felon in possession of ammunition. According to court documents, on Sept. 20, 2023, Diaz and co-defendant Jesus Alejandro Lopez, 47, of Bakersfield, drove to Fresno after agreeing to sell 35 pounds of methamphetamine. Both men were armed when they arrived. Shortly after arriving, police arrested the men and seized a stolen Rock Island Armory .45 caliber handgun loaded with seven rounds from Diaz. Diaz is prohibited from possessing ammunition due to three prior felony convictions involving possession and transportation of a controlled substance and inflicting corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant.

    On March 10, 2025, Lopez pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition and is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston on June 23, 2025. Lopez faces a maximum statutory penalty of 15 years in prison and $250,000 fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. This case was the product of an investigation by the Fresno Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

    ****

    Tionte Beard, 25, of Fresno, was sentenced on March 3, 2025, to three years and 10 months in prison for being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition. According to court documents, on Oct. 28, 2023, police conducted a probation compliance check at Beard’s apartment after Beard posted pictures of guns on his social media. Police seized an Anderson Manufacturing model AM-15 .223-caliber rifle, a Sig Saur model P320 9 mm handgun, and several rounds of ammunition hidden in a laundry basket in a closet. Beard is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition due to prior felony convictions for carjacking, illegally possessing a firearm, and inflicting corporal injury to a spouse or cohabitant. This case was the product of an investigation by the Fresno Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

    ****

    Amed Taylor Muhammad, 24, of Fresno, was sentenced on Jan. 13, 2025, to two years and six months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to court documents, on Sept. 26, 2023, police responded to reports of a shooting in southwest Fresno near a high school and middle school. Officers stopped Muhammad near the location of the shooting after eyewitnesses spotted him from the location with others while holding something in his waistband. After a brief struggle, officers detained Muhammad and seized a loaded black Taurus PT140 G2, .40 caliber pistol from his front waistband. Muhammad is prohibited from possessing firearms due to prior felony convictions for assault by means likely to produce great bodily injury, vehicular theft, and illegally possessing a firearm. This case was the product of an investigation by the Fresno Police Department, and Homeland Security Investigations.

    The above cases were prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cody S. Chapple.

    ****

    Felix Alejandro, 38, of Delano, was sentenced on Jan. 6, 2025, to four years and three months in prison for being a felon in possession of ammunition. According to court documents, on Aug. 2, 2023, police pulled Alejandro over for violating traffic laws. Alejandro consented to a search of his car and police found a 0.40 caliber semi-automatic Polymer 80 pistol wedged between the driver’s seat and center console. The handgun was loaded with 10 rounds of .40 caliber ammunition. Alejandro was on federal supervised release for a prior drug trafficking felony conviction and was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition. This case was the product of an investigation by the Delano Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cody S. Chapple and Jeffrey A. Spivak prosecuted the case.

    These cases are part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the U.S. Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Missoula man sentenced to ten years in prison for trafficking meth and fentanyl

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MISSOULA — A Missoula man who trafficked methamphetamine and fentanyl was sentenced today to 120 months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.

    Andrew David Ambler, 27, pleaded guilty in November 2024 to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances.

    U.S. District Judge Donald W. Molloy presided.

    The government alleged in court documents that on May 24, 2024, Ambler was arrested by members of the Montana Regional Violent Crime Task Force on a parole violation for suspected drug trafficking and firearm-related offenses. Prior to being taken into custody, Ambler attempted to flee on foot while trying to get to his vehicle and discarded a backpack and a bag that were on his person.  The backpack and bag contained a loaded .22 caliber pistol, methamphetamine, and fentanyl.  A search of Ambler’s vehicle resulted in the seizure of approximately 5,000 fentanyl pills, which he admitted he intended to distribute.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case.  The FBI’s Montana Regional Violent Crime Task Force conducted the investigation.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psn.

    XXX

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Tasman Police appealing for firearms as investigation continues into cold case

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police investigating the murder of David John Robinson continue to make progress after new leads breathed renewed energy into the investigation.

    The homicide investigation was launched on 28 December 1998 after David’s body was located on a remote West Coast beach near Ross.

    For more than 25 years, the investigation has remained open but unresolved, prompting Police to review the case and, in mid-February this year, undertake further enquires.

    Approximately two weeks before David’s body was located, mid-morning between 14 and 18 December, a single gunshot was heard by numerous people in the settlement of Kakapotahi.

    Since the beginning of the initial investigation, Police have known David was shot once in the head with a .22 calibre firearm.

    Detective Inspector Geoff Baber says Police have never located the firearm that was used to murder David.

    “As part of the reopened investigation, Police have received a number of .22 firearms from individuals who owned them in the Kakapotahi area in December 1998.

    “We are now able to conduct forensic examinations on these firearms so we can rule out any not used in David’s murder.”

    Police would like to hear from anyone else who owned a .22 firearm and was in the Kakapotahi area in 1998, or anyone who knew someone in the wider area who had such a firearm.

    “For the purpose of our investigation, we ask for people to get in touch, let us know who may have these firearms now, and whether Police could take them temporarily for the purpose of conducting a forensic examination.

    “We continue to appeal for anyone who may have owned, used, or had seen a green 4×4 vehicle around 1998 in the Kakapotahi area to please contact us.

    “It is not too late to provide David’s family with answers – if you know something, we encourage you to come forward and speak with us.”

    If you have information that could assist Police’s investigation, please email us via the Cold Case form on the New Zealand Police website, or call 105 and reference the case number 231129/2221.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: AG Nick Brown testifies in support of ‘permit to purchase’ legislation

    Source: Washington State News

    OLYMPIA — Attorney General Nick Brown today told legislators they can save lives by passing permit to purchase legislation for gun buyers (HB 1163).

    “This policy gives us the tools we need to ensure gun buyers aren’t doing so illegally under existing state and federal laws,” Brown said in his testimony to the Senate Committee on Law & Justice. “Through background checks, training, and other safety steps, we can make meaningful use of the critical time between someone’s choice to purchase a firearm and when they obtain that weapon.”

    The bill, which the committee is scheduled to vote on Thursday, enhances permitting for firearms by requiring applicants to complete State Patrol-certified safety training, including essential firearm safety procedures, responsible firearm handling, and live-fire exercises to ensure practical firearm proficiency.

    “Research and data clearly show that permit-to-purchase programs reduce gun-related deaths, curb gun trafficking, and improve law enforcement officer safety. This bill will save lives,” said Senate Law & Justice Committee Chair Manka Dhingra, D-Redmond.

    HB 1163 also establishes in-depth background checks conducted to receive a permit, background checks at the point of purchase, and an annual re-check to ensure permit holders remain eligible. Together, these elements provide more certainty that people who are prohibited from owning guns are quickly and consistently identified and won’t be able to purchase a firearm.

    “Gun violence is the number one cause of death for our kids. Not disease, not vehicular collisions, not drugs. As a mom of two little kids, and having lost someone I love to gun violence, this is personal to me,” said House Rep. Liz Berry, D-Seattle, the bill’s lead sponsor. “But I am not alone. Being afraid that our children will suffer from gun violence should not be part of our daily lives. It is unacceptable, it is unsustainable, and we must act today. Permit to Purchase will save lives and make all our communities safer.”

    Connecticut enacted similar permit-to-purchase legislation 30 years ago and saw a 40% drop in gun homicides in the decade that followed, according to Johns Hopkins University researchers.

    “This bill builds on our commonsense requirement that background checks be part of the process for buying firearms in Washington,” said Sen. Marko Liias, D-Edmonds. “By having people get a permit and background check before they purchase, we can ensure only responsible owners are the ones who have access to firearms in our state/”

    The bill previously passed out of the House on a vote of 58-38.

    -30-

    Washington’s Attorney General serves the people and the state of Washington. As the state’s largest law firm, the Attorney General’s Office provides legal representation to every state agency, board, and commission in Washington. Additionally, the Office serves the people directly by enforcing consumer protection, civil rights, and environmental protection laws. The Office also prosecutes elder abuse, Medicaid fraud, and handles sexually violent predator cases in 38 of Washington’s 39 counties. Visit www.atg.wa.gov to learn more.

    Media Contact:

    Email: press@atg.wa.gov

    Phone: (360) 753-2727

    General contacts: Click here

    Media Resource Guide & Attorney General’s Office FAQ

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Trump silences Voice of America – end of a propaganda machine or void for China and Russia to fill?

    ANALYSIS: By Valerie A. Cooper, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington

    Of all the contradictions and ironies of Donald Trump’s second presidency so far, perhaps the most surprising has been his shutting down the US Agency for Global Media (USAGM) for being “radical propaganda”.

    Critics have long accused the agency — and its affiliated outlets such as Voice of America, Radio Free Europe and Radio Free Asia — of being a propaganda arm of US foreign policy.

    But to the current president, the USAGM has become a promoter of “anti-American ideas” and agendas — including allegedly suppressing stories critical of Iran, sympathetically covering the issue of “white privilege” and bowing to pressure from China.

    Propaganda is clearly in the eye of the beholder. The Moscow Times reported Russian officials were elated by the demise of the “purely propagandistic” outlets, while China’s Global Times celebrated the closure of a “lie factory”.

    Meanwhile, the European Commission hailed USAGM outlets as a “beacon of truth, democracy and hope”. All of which might have left the average person understandably confused: Voice of America? Wasn’t that the US propaganda outlet from World War II?

    Well, yes. But the reality of USAGM and similar state-sponsored global media outlets is more complex — as are the implications of the US agency’s demise.

    Public service or state propaganda?
     The USAGM is one of several international public service media outlets based in Western democracies. Others include Australia’s ABC International, the BBC World Service, CBC/Radio-Canada, France Médias Monde, NHK-World Japan, Deutsche Welle in Germany and SRG SSR in Switzerland.

    Part of the Public Media Alliance, they are similar to national public service media, largely funded by taxpayers to uphold democratic ideals of universal access to news and information.

    Unlike national public media, however, they might not be consumed — or even known — by domestic audiences. Rather, they typically provide news to countries without reliable independent media due to censorship or state-run media monopolies.

    The USAGM, for example, provides news in 63 languages to more than 100 countries. It has been credited with bringing attention to issues such as protests against covid-19 lockdowns in China and women’s struggles for equal rights in Iran.

    On the other hand, the independence of USAGM outlets has been questioned often, particularly as they are required to share government-mandated editorials.

    Voice of America has been criticised for its focus on perceived ideological adversaries such as Russia and Iran. And my own research has found it perpetuates stereotypes and the neglect of African nations in its news coverage.

    Leaving a void
     Ultimately, these global media outlets wouldn’t exist if there weren’t benefits for the governments that fund them. Sharing stories and perspectives that support or promote certain values and policies is an effective form of “public diplomacy”.

    Yet these international media outlets differ from state-controlled media models because of editorial systems that protect them from government interference.

    The Voice of America’s “firewall”, for instance, “prohibits interference by any US government official in the objective, independent reporting of news”. Such protections allow journalists to report on their own governments more objectively.

    In contrast, outlets such as China Media Group (CMG), RT from Russia, and PressTV from Iran also reach a global audience in a range of languages. But they do this through direct government involvement.

    CMG subsidiary CCTV+, for example, states it is “committed to telling China’s story to the rest of the world”.

    Though RT states it is an autonomous media outlet, research has found the Russian government oversees hiring editors, imposing narrative angles, and rejecting stories.

    A Voice of America staffer protests outside the Washington DC offices on March 17, 2025, after employees were placed on administrative leave. Image: Getty Images/The Conversation

    Other voices get louder
     The biggest concern for Western democracies is that these other state-run media outlets will fill the void the USAGM leaves behind — including in the Pacific.

    Russia, China and Iran are increasing funding for their state-run news outlets, with China having spent more than US$6.6 billion over 13 years on its global media outlets. China Media Group is already one of the largest media conglomerates in the world, providing news content to more than 130 countries in 44 languages.

    And China has already filled media gaps left by Western democracies: after the ABC stopped broadcasting Radio Australia in the Pacific, China Radio International took over its frequencies.

    Worryingly, the differences between outlets such as Voice of America and more overtly state-run outlets aren’t immediately clear to audiences, as government ownership isn’t advertised.

    An Australian senator even had to apologise recently after speaking with PressTV, saying she didn’t know the news outlet was affiliated with the Iranian government, or that it had been sanctioned in Australia.

    Switched off
     Trump’s move to dismantle the USAGM doesn’t come as a complete surprise, however. As the authors of Capturing News, Capturing Democracy: Trump and the Voice of America described, the first Trump administration failed in its attempts to remove the firewall and install loyalists.

    This perhaps explains why Trump has resorted to more drastic measures this time. And, as with many of the current administration’s legally dubious actions, there has been resistance.

    The American Foreign Service Association says it will challenge the dismantling of the USAGM, while the Czech Republic is seeking EU support to keep Radio Free Europe and Radio Liberty on the air.

    But for many of the agency’s journalists, contractors, broadcasting partners and audiences, it may be too late. Last week, The New York Times reported some Voice of America broadcasts had already been replaced by music.

    Dr Valerie A. Cooper is lecturer in media and communication, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington.  This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons licence. Read the original article.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Support for those affected by Tropical Cyclone Alfred

    Source:

    We understand taxpayers across New South Wales and Queensland communities have been impacted by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred. We encourage you to continue to lodge your clients’ obligations if you can, however for those clients that have been directly affected in Local Government Areas (LGAs) declared eligible for the Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRPExternal Link), we will provide additional time where you or your client are unable to lodge for the following obligations:

    • Monthly BAS with an original due date of 21 March 2025 will have up to 11 April 2025 to lodge.
    • Individual, Trust and Small Business income tax returns with an original due date of 31 March 2025 will have up to 11 April 2025 to lodge.

    These measures are in addition to our normal range of support options available should you, your clients or your practice need additional help.

    How do I know if a client can lodge late without penalty?

    If we have made a provision for your client to lodge late without penalty, there will be an indicator on their account. This can be identified by running an On-Demand Outstanding Lodgment Report for either Income Tax or Activity Statements in Online services for agents, or through your practice management software.

    Details for running On-Demand reports in Online services for agents and practitioner lodgment service (PLS) – enabled software are available on our website.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Targeted support when relocating for work

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Minister for Social Development and Employment Louise Upston says there will be targeted help if people need to relocate for a job.

    The Relocate for Work Support payment will be available from 31 March for people on a benefit who can’t find a job where they currently live and need support to move to another location where they have found a job.

    “We want to remove barriers for job seekers who have a suitable job offer and need to move to take it up. The need to move shouldn’t be a reason not to take a job,” Louise Upston says.

    “Relocate for Work means we may be able to help with the travel costs for a private vehicle, airfare, bus, or ferry tickets to relocate. There’s also support to shift possessions.

    “We want to help New Zealanders when they need it. Getting people back into the workforce, earning money and having their own independence is something I’m committed to.

    “We know there are job opportunities out there and this is another practical way we can support New Zealanders off welfare and into work,” Louise Upston says.

    Relocate for Work replaces the $5k to Work grant, initially introduced as ‘$3k to Christchurch’ which helped New Zealanders relocate and support the rebuild after the Christchurch earthquakes.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Arizona man gets life in prison for kidnapping victim and sexually exploiting minors

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    WICHITA, KAN. – An Arizona man was sentenced to life in prison for kidnapping and sexually assaulting his victim at gunpoint as he transported her across state lines. A federal judge also sentenced the defendant to 95 years in prison for other related crimes, to be served concurrent with his life sentence.

    Martin Brandon Gillen, 27, of Phoenix, Arizona, pleaded guilty to one count of kidnapping, two counts of sexual exploitation of a minor, one count of transportation for criminal sexual activity, one count of transportation of child pornography, and one count of possession of child pornography.

    In late 2021, Martin Brandon Gillen began an online relationship with a minor female who was then 17 years of age. He persuaded her to take and send him sexually explicit images and videos which he kept and later used to threaten the victim. Over the course of the online relationship, Gillen repeatedly made violent threats against the victim. In March 2024, Gillen traveled to Illinois to pick up the victim then transported her across state lines, from Illinois to Missouri to Kansas. During this trip, Gillen sexually assaulted her on multiple occasions.

    Gillen and the victim were found in Kansas by officers with the Iola Police Department. In his possession, Gillen had a firearm, multiple magazines, and zip ties. Gillen admitted to officers that his cell phone contained child sexual abuse materials. Subsequent examination by law enforcement revealed hundreds of images and videos of child sexual abuse materials on his cell phone, as well as sexually explicit images of the female from when she was 17 years old. Agents with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) also found images of Gillen sexually abusing an unrelated 4-year-old child from Utah on the phone.

    This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Iola Police Department, the New Baden, Illinois Police Department, and the Illinois State Police.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Hart prosecuted the case.

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

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    MIL Security OSI –