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Category: Natural Disasters

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Activist News – PSNA to protest Winston Peters’ policy of appeasement towards the US/Israel

    Source: Palestinian Solidarity Network Aotearoa (PSNA)

    PSNA supporters will protest at the Winston Peters public meeting in Ōtautahi/Christchurch this afternoon calling for him to end his policy of appeasement towards the US and Israel.

     

    “Winston Peters’ is New Zealand’s Neville Chamberlain” says PSNA Co National Chair John Minto. “He has refused to condemn any of Israel’s war crimes against Palestinians, including the total humanitarian aid blockade of Gaza”

    (Neville Chamberlain was Britain’s Prime Minister from 1937 to 1940.  His name is synonymous with the policy of “appeasement” because he conceded territorial concessions to Nazi Germany in the late 1930s, fruitlessly hoping to avoid war)

     

    “It’s unprecedented in New Zealand history that a government would refuse to condemn Israel breaking its ceasefire agreement and resuming industrial-scale slaughter of civilians.  That is what Israel is doing today in Gaza, with full backing from the White House,” Minto says.

     

    “Chamberlain went to meet Hitler in Munich in 1938 to whitewash Nazi Germany’s takeovers of its neighbours’ lands.”

     

    “Peters has been in Washington to agree to US approval of the occupation of southern Syria, more attacks on Lebanon, resumption of the land grab genocide in Gaza and get a heads-up on US plans to ‘give’ the Occupied West Bank to Israel later this year.”

     

    “If Peters disagrees with any of this, he’s had plenty of chances to say so.”

     

    “New Zealanders are calling for sanctions on Israel but Mr Peters and the National-led government are looking the other way.”

     

    “Today’s protest will be holding Peters to account.”

     

    John Minto

    Co National Chair

    Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    March 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government launches consultations on trade measures to prevent diversion of steel products into Canada

    Source: Government of Canada News

    March 22, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario – Department of Finance Canada

    Canadian steel producers and workers are facing potential harm from the threat of increased steel imports into Canada, triggered by the unjustified 25 per cent tariffs the United States (U.S.) imposed on steel products from all countries.

    Today, the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Finance and the Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry announced the launch of a 30-day public consultation on possible trade measures to protect against the threat of diversion of steel products from third countries into the Canadian market as a result of the recent trade measures by the U.S.

    The global steel market currently has too much supply compared to demand. This severe overcapacity leads to cheap foreign steel being sold at artificially low prices in Canada and globally. When such steel enters the Canadian market, it negatively impacts Canadian steel workers and businesses. Following recent U.S. tariffs, there is a heightened risk that these steel products may flood the Canadian market putting both producers and workers at risk. 

    Potential new trade measures would complement measures recently announced by the Government of Canada to support Canadian steel and aluminum workers and industries. As a first response to the direct threat posed by U.S. tariffs, Canada imposed 25 per cent reciprocal tariffs, effective March 13, 2025, on a list of steel products worth $12.6 billion and aluminum products worth $3 billion, as well as on additional imported U.S. goods worth $14.2 billion, for a total of $29.8 billion. 

    The federal government also applied a 25 per cent surtax on imports of steel and aluminum products from China, effective October 22, 2024. This measure was taken in response to China’s non-market policies and practices and to prevent trade diversion resulting from actions taken by Canadian trading partners. 

    Beyond these recent actions, Canada also maintains robust trade remedy and import monitoring systems to help protect against unfair trade from all sources and provides direct recourse for Canadian businesses and workers that are harmed by unfairly traded goods entering the Canadian market.

    The federal government continues to monitor the trade situation closely and will take additional steps as needed to support our industries against these threats. 

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    March 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Federal government invests in greener public transit across Quebec

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Montréal, Quebec, March 22, 2025 — The federal government is investing over $400 million in 11 infrastructure projects, including three in Montréal, to make public transit greener across Quebec.

    First, more than $200.5 million will be used to electrify the St-Laurent ($106.7 million) and Anjou ($93.7 million) transport centers through the acquisition and installation of electrical equipment that will allow the installation of several dozen charging points. In total, 148 charging points will be installed at the St-Laurent transport center, and 132 will be installed at the Anjou transport centre.

    An investment of more than $83.2 million will go towards the partial electrification of the Legendre transport centre, allowing the installation of 72 charging positions for buses. This project includes technical studies, the acquisition and commissioning of equipment and infrastructure, as well as the expansion of premises for electrical equipment, the modernization of infrastructure such as the fire protection system and telecommunications rooms, the reinforcement of the building structure, and the connection to the existing generator.

    The federal investments announced today will also be used to fund electrification projects at transit authority garages and operations centres across the province, notably in Longueuil, Lévis, Quebec City, Sherbrooke, and Saguenay.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    March 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Taking on Trump

    Source: Liberal Democrats UK

    Amendments

    Drafting Amendments

    The FCC has agreed to make the following drafting amendments to the motion: 

    Delete iii) (lines 12-13) and insert:

    iii) Trump’s suspension of military aid to Ukraine, and lack of commitment to NATO. 

    In iv) (line 15) after ‘Greenland’ insert: ‘…and his threat to annexe Canada as the US 51st state.’ 

    After line 15, insert new v): 

    v) Trump’s reckless comments proposing that Palestinians be removed from Gaza and ‘resettled’ elsewhere – which would constitute a grave violation of international law – undermining the already fragile ceasefire and disregarding the legitimate right of Palestinians for their own state. 

    After line 28, insert new x), xi) and xii): 

    x) Trump’s cancellation of USAID, which could lead to China increasing its influence in the Global South. 

    xi) The disgraceful verbal assault by Trump and Vance on President Zelensky in the Oval Office on 28 February 2025. 

    xii) The Trump Administration’s actions to roll back the rights of LGBTQ+ people in the US, in particular towards trans people, as well as those of women and ethnic minorities.

    Amendment One

    Submitted by: 12 members
    Mover: Helen Maguire MP (Spokesperson for Defence)
    Summation: Baroness Smith of Newnham (Lords Spokesperson for Defence) 

    After line 37, insert:

    Conference welcomes the Government’s decision to raise defence spending to 2.5% of GDP, but expresses concern that doing so by cutting Official Development Assistance will ultimately make the UK less secure. 

    Delete E. b) (lines 69-70) and insert: 

    b) Committing to spending 2.5% of GDP as soon as possible – to be funded by raising the Digital Services Tax from 2% to 10% – and holding cross-party talks to agree a consensus on how to reach spending 3% of GDP on defence. 

    After line 84, insert: 

    d) Support the creation of a Rearmament Bank, together with our European and other allies, to enable greater access to finance for defence programmes.

    Amendment Two

    Submitted by: 12 members
    Mover: James McCleary MP (Spokesperson for Europe) 
    Summation: David Chalmers (Chair of the Federal International Relations Committee)

    At end of line 39, insert: ‘…and that enhancing economic ties with the EU, including by cutting red tape and boosting trade links, is essential for insulating the UK from Trump’s unpredictability as well as growing our economy’. 

    At end of line 57, insert: ‘…and, as the culmination of the third stage in our roadmap, negotiate a new UK-EU Customs Union by 2030 at the latest.’

    Amendment Three

    Submitted by: Yorkshire and Humber 
    Mover: Samuel Jackson 
    Summation: Adrian Ramsdale

    After line 53, insert new B.: 

    B. Ensure Ukraine’s participation in peace negotiations as an equal partner to safeguard against a coerced and detrimental peace settlement.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    March 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Keep safe and cool in hot weather

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Setting your air conditioner to 23 degrees or higher can help avoid strain on the electricity grid.

    In brief:

    • Summers in Canberra can be long, hot and dry.
    • It’s important to be prepared for extreme heat and emergencies.
    • This story contains tips and information to help you prepare for the summer months.

    Canberrans have a long, hot and dry summer ahead of us. It’s important to be aware of potential risks to your family and your property.

    There are actions that you can take to prepare for the summer months. This includes things like preparing for hazard season and using electricity carefully.

    Be emergency ready

    During summer, the ACT can have a higher risk for:

    • bushfires
    • grass fires
    • storms flood
    • extreme heat weather events.

    If you and your home prepare well, you stand a better chance of surviving an emergency.

    You can be emergency ready by completing or updating your survival plan and packing your home emergency kit.

    Visit the ACT Emergency Services Agency website for more information and resources.

    Take note of prescribed burns

    The ACT Government conducts several prescribed burns each year to manage fire risk across the region.

    You’ll also see the ACT Government’s mowing team busy managing grass growth across the territory. This is part of the annual mowing program. This not only improves presentation, access and safety, it reduces fire fuel.

    Find out when prescribed burns are happening in your area.

    You can also check the ESA website to see a list of active incidents.

    And if you see a fire unattended, call triple-zero (000).

    Know your nearest heat refuge

    During cases of extreme heat, some library branches may extend their opening hours. This is to allow the public to escape the heat. Extended opening hours is determined at the time on advice from ACT Health.

    Not only are public library branches free and open to everyone, but all are air conditioned. The community can enjoy access to free books, DVDs, magazines, music downloads, e-books, wi-fi, programs and events.

    When extreme heat events occur, Libraries ACT will display the extended opening hours on their website. Find out more.

    Be energy conscious this summer

    On extreme heat days, the electricity grid can become strained. It’s important to be mindful of your energy use. This can help manage demand on days like these while still keeping your home cool and comfortable. It can also help you save on energy bills.

    Our top tips to turn down the heat include:

    • use fans first – they are cheaper to run
    • set your air conditioner to 23 degrees or higher
    • service or clean filters on aircons to help your system run more efficiently
    • keep windows covered during the day to keep out the heat
    • open windows at the end of the day to benefit from the cooler evening air
    • draught proof your home to prevent cool air from escaping from gaps between windows, doors, vents and exhausts.

    Visit the Climate Choices website for more ideas on saving energy and saying cool for less.

    Read more like this:

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:


    MIL OSI News –

    March 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Backgrounder: Federal government invests in water and wastewater infrastructure to support more housing

    Belleville

    Ontario

    Avonlough Sanitary Pumping Station and Conveyance

    The Avonlough Sanitary Pumping Station and conveyance project will ultimately service approximately 9,000 new residential units in the west end of the City of Belleville. This project will unlock development lands in the Loyalist West Secondary Plan area by constructing a new sanitary pumping station, force main, and gravity and pressure sewers along Bridge Street West.

    $16,155,576

    Cape Breton Regional Municipality

    *Announced March 18, 2025

    Nova Scotia

    CBU Water Supply and Housing Development

    Cape Breton University’s growing campus requires increased housing availability in the Cape Breton Regional Municipality and the current campus requires a sustainable and dependable drinking water supply as the former operator of their private system, Nova Scotia Community College, has relocated to Downtown Sydney. This project will include a new water supply to Cape Breton University and the neighbouring Tanglewood subdivision development, which will support upwards of 200 new units.

    $10,200,000

    Cape Breton Regional Municipality

    *Announced March 18, 2025

    Nova Scotia

    Tartan Downs Development for Sydney, Nova Scotia

    This investment seeks to create a modern, vibrant neighborhood on a 24-acre site in the central urban district of the Cape Breton Regional Municipality (CBRM). The project aims to provide affordable housing, student and senior housing, community inclusion characteristics, and commercial/retail features. By addressing the affordable housing shortage in CBRM, the project will enhance social interaction, improve the well-being of residents, and offer opportunities for cultural exchanges.

    $6,921,194

    Clarenville

    Newfoundland and Labrador

    Affordable Housing Project for Clarenville, NL

    This project involves upgrades to water and sewer distributions systems in Pleasant Street and Thompson Street Extension. To assist the Town of Clarenville in addressing current and future housing shortages, this project aims to support the construction of 173 new housing units, with the opportunity to build an additional 350 units in future.

    $3,701,705

    Curve Lake First Nation

    Ontario

    Decentralized Wastewater Treatment Systems for Curve Lake FN, ON: Installing up to three Miranda systems to support growing infrastructure with a sustainable, future-ready solution

    The Curve Lake First Nation Decentralized Wastewater Treatment System project seeks to address the community’s pressing wastewater challenges by implementing modern and sustainable solutions that meet immediate needs and support long-term growth. The project includes feasibility studies, site planning, and the construction of three decentralized wastewater treatment systems using Miranda’s Rotating Biological Contactor (RBC) technology. Unlike traditional systems that require extensive land use and maintenance, the Miranda system offers a compact, scalable, and cost-effective solution.

    This project represents a forward-thinking approach to wastewater management. By addressing current needs while preparing for future growth, the decentralized systems will ensure a healthier, more sustainable community for generations to come.

    $8,184,800

    East Hants

    *Announced March 20, 2025

    Nova Scotia

    Brookside Wastewater Revitalization

    This project aims to increase overall wastewater capacity for both short-term and long-term growth in Lantz. It will support the rebalancing of wastewater catchment areas through Lantz in a way that enables capacity, and be built with resiliency that sets up both existing and future infrastructure in the area for impacts from extreme weather events that can cause localized flooding, inflow, and infiltration into the wastewater system. This project aims to support the development of 128 dwellings as well as setting up for further growth beyond that for Lantz. This project will take relief off existing infrastructure that will prolong current asset life of those pre-existing wastewater catchment areas that are downstream of the project area.

    $6,307,410

    Fredericton

    New Brunswick

    Fredericton Northeast Growth Area Water System Extension

    This project aims to provide essential water and sewer infrastructure for the immediate development of the Northeast Growth Area, which will include a variety of residential development ranging from single detached dwellings, various forms of missing middle housing, and apartments from 4-8 floors. The Northeast Growth Area features a number of affordable housing developments by local non-profits along with a co-operative housing development. The additional 900 units are on city-owned land, which supports one of the City’s initiatives through the Housing Accelerator Fund to create neighbourhoods of the future – enabling mixed use development on City-owned properties.

    $3,552,027

    Greater Sudbury

    *Announced March 21, 2025

    Ontario

    Lively-Walden Wastewater System Upgrades Project for the City of Greater Sudbury, Ontario

    The Lively-Walden Wastewater System Upgrades will increase sanitary sewer capacity in the Lively/Walden sewershed within the City of Greater Sudbury. The infrastructure upgrades will enable the construction of 3,300 new homes in the City.

    $27,980,000

    Hamilton

    Ontario

    The Lotus Avenue Wastewater Upgrade project

    The Lotus Avenue Wastewater Upgrade project is a vital infrastructure initiative designed to support the development of 261 purpose-built rental units at 60 Caledon Avenue in Hamilton. This wastewater upgrade will increase the system’s capacity, enabling it to support the 261 residential units and allow for the future development of an additional 384 residential units in the community.

    $500,000

    Iqaluit

    Nunavut

    Collaborative land development for Iqaluit, Nunavut

    The Qikiqtani Inuit Association (QIA), and the City of Iqaluit (City) have collectively identified the benefits of a collaboration to advance land development in Iqaluit, Nunavut.

    The creation of a private-public collaboration between the local Inuit organizations and municipal government is an innovative approach to ease the land deficit faced by Iqaluit. This collaboration will enable development of the Inuit Owned Land (IOL) and provide access to and develop the landlocked municipal lands north of the IOL. This development area will promote a prominent gateway to the City of Iqaluit; linking the airport terminal to the City Core Area.

    $33,002,103

    Memramcook

    *Announced March 21, 2025

    New Brunswick

    Memramcook Water Distribution System Expansion Project – Phase 4

    The main objective of the Memramcook Water Distribution System Expansion Project – Phase 4 is to strengthen the municipal infrastructure by expanding the existing water distribution system to meet the growing drinking water needs of residents. This capital project includes the new construction and modernization of existing infrastructure.

    $4,119,339

    Michipicoten First Nation

    Ontario

    Michipicoten First Nation Water Treatment Plan Upgrades

    The project will upgrade Michipicoten First Nation’s water treatment plant, increasing the plant capacity by 250% to allow the community to support the increasing on-reserve population and planned housing developments. This work will allow for a filter-to-waste feature enabling the plant to meet regulations for water treatment. project will also increase the current reservoir’s volume for fire protection.

    $10,834,746

    Mississauga

    Ontario

    Reconstruction of Little Etobicoke Creek in Mississauga, Ontario

    This project addresses urgent stormwater management challenges in the Little Etobicoke Creek corridor to enable housing growth and enhance climate resilience. The reconstruction plan includes upgrades to the watercourse and essential infrastructure, to significantly increase flow capacity and mitigate flood risks. These improvements will unlock developable land for 6,300 new housing units in a key growth area centered around the Dixie GO Major Transit Station Area (MTSA).

    $24,247,888

    Municipality of Lakeshore

    Ontario

    County Road 22 Sanitary Sewer Expansion for Municipality of Lakeshore, Ontario

    This project is designed to address critical wastewater infrastructure challenges in the Municipality of Lakeshore, Essex County, while supporting anticipated population growth by 2042. The project directly benefits over 2,600 homes by protecting them from flooding and facilitates development in the Wallace Woods Secondary Planning Area, which is expected to accommodate approximately 53,000 residents.

    $36,814,400

    Municipality of the County of Kings

    Nova Scotia

    New Zeke Brook Water Treatment Plant and Well Systems, Greenwood, Nova Scotia

    This project involves the construction of a new water treatment plant and related well systems for the Greenwood Water Utility, owned and operated by the Municipality of the County of Kings. It involves expanding the servicing capacity of the Greenwood Water Utility by constructing and connecting the new groundwater supply and drinking water treatment facility to the Greenwood Water Utility. This would enable residential housing development along Highway 201, a density housing project in the Village and western areas of Greenwood, and potentially provide future drinking water service connection to the Village of Kingston.

    $1,459,304

    Oromocto

    New Brunswick

    Installing of Water, Sewer Infrastructure in Cyr St Extension to Open Up Town Owned High Density Residential Zoned Property to Increase Supply of Multi-unit Housing

    This project involves installing water and wastewater infrastructure to unlock access to 5.7 hectares of Town-owned land, including 4.4 hectares zoned for high-density residential development. This project could support an additional 300 dwelling units, along with commercial amenities, all within walking distance of an existing school.

    $899,625

    Petrolia

    Ontario

    Upsizing Petrolia Line/Oil Heritage Road Watermain in Petrolia, Ontario

    This project includes replacing the existing watermain on Petrolia Line from the east of Bear Creek to Oil Heritage Road and further south.

    The southeast end of Petrolia is facing a residential development roadblock as the current watermain cannot support any additional dwellings. The success of this project will enable five developments to resume, resulting in 1,032 new units to Petrolia’s housing supply.

    $1,347,802

    Port Colborne

    Ontario

    Investing in Tomorrow: Improvements to Port Colborne’s Infrastructure to Support Housing Growth

    This project entails accelerating the construction of housing-enabling infrastructure to create new housing supply and improve densification in three areas of Port Colborne:

    1. Sugarloaf Street and Marina Drive,
    2. Highway 140 and Highway 3, and
    3. Lockview Park.

    The construction of 850 units in Sugarloaf Street and Marina Drive will lead to increased wastewater flows, which the City’s existing sewer network cannot adequately handle.

    The City plans to provide additional wastewater capacity via a new 300mm diameter forcemain and by utilizing the Niagara Region’s new servicing tunnel. This essential infrastructure will directly support a 2,240 home subdivision by addressing the City’s wastewater capacity limitations on the east side of the canal.

    $19,250,000

    Riverview

    New Brunswick

    Mill Creek Naturalized Stormwater Pond

    The Mill Creek Naturalized Detention Pond project is an initiative focused on the new construction of essential stormwater management infrastructure to support the full build-out of Carriage Hill, Riverview’s fastest-growing residential neighborhood. This pond is a critical requirement for the construction of over 939 residential units, as well as other development in the area.

    $800,000

    Saskatoon

    Saskatchewan

    Infill and Redevelopment Water and Sewer Capacity Improvement, City of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

    This project seeks to achieve increased capacity for sewer and watermains to allow for infill growth in identified areas of the city. This will be done by replacing and upsizing key strategic watermains and sewer mains that serve large portions of the city. Replacing these with higher capacity mains will open areas of the city for infill. The projects are expected to provide capacity to add an additional 2,400 residences to areas that can currently support 4,975 residences.

    $9,729,820

    Saskatoon

    Saskatchewan

    New Organics Processing Facility for Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

    This project will build a city-owned organics processing facility that will provide the City of Saskatoon with the ability to process all organic waste from the green cart program and from residential and commercial waste drop-off.  The facility will also be built to accommodate for the City’s future growth. In addition, by diverting organic waste away from the landfill, this project will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and environmental pollution.

    $8,480,000

    Sault Ste. Marie

    Ontario

    West End Treatment Plant Upgrades – Phase 2 for the City of Sault Ste. Marie

    This project will help ensure that the West End Wastewater Treatment Plant (WEWTP) can continue to meet the needs of Sault Ste. Marie’s growing population and forecasted housing needs into the next decade. The City is undertaking important upgrades to its WEWTP to support planned growth in the west catchment area, reduce maintenance demands, and improve operational efficiencies.

    $22,981,000

    Torbay

    *Announced March 21, 2025

    Newfoundland and Labrador

    Addressing Drinking Water Infrastructure Issues in the Town of Torbay

    The proposed project involves the construction of a new municipal water supply to ensure the supply of clean, safe, and reliable drinking water for the community and its residents. This facility aims to address current challenges such as aging infrastructure, insufficient capacity to supply the town with clean drinking water, and the increasing demand for potable water due to population growth. Additionally, it seeks to meet or exceed regulatory standards for water quality and support sustainable water management practices.
    The construction of a new water supply facility aims to achieve several key objectives, primarily focused on ensuring a safe, reliable, and sustainable water supply.

    $26,886,875

    Whitehorse

    Yukon

    Water Treatment Plant for Whitehorse, Yukon

    The Selkirk Water Treatment Plant (WTP) upgrade project aims to address critical public health and infrastructure challenges faced by the City of Whitehorse. The overarching objective is to ensure the delivery of safe, high-quality drinking water that meets Yukon Environmental Health Services regulations and accommodates the city’s projected population growth through 2040 and beyond. The Selkirk WTP will serve 11,293 existing housing units and enable the development of 7,338 new housing units by 2045, directly supporting Whitehorse’s growth objectives.

    $44,197,078

    Yellowknife

    Northwest Territories

    Lift Station #1 and Sewage Forcemain Replacement – City of Yellowknife

    This project is for the complete replacement of Lift Station #1 and the accompanying sewage forcemain, as well as the demolition of the old lift station once permanent connections are established and the replacement project is complete. Lift Station #1 is the second largest sewage lift station in the City’s wastewater conveyance system. Yellowknife and the service area for this lift station have grown considerably and the age and design capacity of this lift station is becoming an impediment to future development.

    $41,025,000

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    March 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Federal government invests in water and wastewater infrastructure to support more housing across the country

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    Ottawa, Ontario, March 22, 2025 — Today, the Honourable Nathaniel Erskine-Smith, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities, announced a federal investment of over $369.5 million through the Canada Housing Infrastructure Fund (CHIF) direct delivery stream to build or improve the essential infrastructure needed to promote new housing supply and increase density across the country.

    In total, these investments will enable the construction of over 110,230 housing units, playing a crucial role in strengthening essential infrastructure and getting more homes built faster.

    Funding through the direct delivery stream of CHIF is provided to support pressing infrastructure projects in municipalities and Indigenous communities across Canada. These projects will provide the foundation for future housing growth – from coast to coast to coast.  

    These projects will provide crucial infrastructure, improve and expand access to potable and reliable drinking water, establish new water supplies, increase wastewater capacity, support and strengthen sustainable stormwater management, find new solid waste management solutions, and remove infrastructure barriers to developing new homes while improving public health and providing environmental benefits.

    The intake for the CHIF direct delivery stream remains open, and applications will be accepted until March 31, 2025 for communities of all sizes across Canada, and until May 19, 2025, for Indigenous applicants. 

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    March 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: XploraDEX $XPL Could Be the Most Profitable Launch on XRP Ledger—Join $XPL PreSale and Become an Early Whale

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ZURICH, Switzerland, March 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The XRP Ledger is buzzing and top traders and analysts are already calling it: XploraDEX’s $XPL token might be the most profitable launch XRPL has ever seen. As the first AI-powered decentralized exchange on XRPL, XploraDEX is bringing next-gen trading automation to one of the most efficient blockchains in the game.

    With the $XPL Presale live and gaining momentum, early adopters are rushing in to secure their allocation before the price skyrockets. The fusion of AI technology and lightning-fast XRPL infrastructure has created a perfect storm and those who move early stand to benefit the most.

    GET $XPL TOKENS NOW

    Why the Smartest Traders Are Backing XploraDEX

    In a market flooded with hype, top-tier traders are backing XploraDEX not because of marketing gimmicksbut because of its real utility and future-proof design.

    Here is What The Smart Investors See:

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    XploraDEX is not just another decentralized exchange, it’s a smarter, faster, AI-enhanced trading engine tailored for the XRP ecosystem.

    BUY $XPL TOKEN ON PRESALE

    $XPL: The Token at the Heart of the AI Trading Revolution

    The $XPL token is more than just fuel for XploraDEX—it’s the gateway to the most intelligent DeFi experience on XRPL. Holding $XPL gives you:

    • Access to Premium AI Trading Tools
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    • Staking & Passive Rewards from platform activity
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    With growing presale participation and buzz across the XRP community, $XPL is quickly becoming the most sought-after token on XRPL.

    Buy $XPL Tokens Now: https://sale.xploradex.io

    $XPL Presale is Heating Up – Time Is Running Out

    Early backers are already positioning themselves. As word spreads and demand rises, the window to grab $XPL Token at presale prices is closing fast.

    This is your opportunity to be early, not just on a token, but on a full-scale AI DeFi movement powered by XRPL.

    Join the presale today: https://sale.xploradex.io

    Stay connected and Join the XploraDEX AI Revolution

    Website | $XPL Token Presale | X | Telegram

    Contact:
    Oliver Muller
    oliver@xploradex.io
    contact@xploradex.io

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by the XploraDEX. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.

    Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.

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    The MIL Network –

    March 23, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: Green Party’s Swarbrick calls for urgent NZ action over Israel’s ‘crazy’ Gaza slaughter

    Asia Pacific Report

    Green Party co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick called on New Zealand government MPs today to support her Member’s Bill to sanction Israel over its “crazy slaughter” of Palestinians in Gaza.

    Speaking at a large pro-Palestinian solidarity rally in the heart of New Zealand’s largest city Auckland, she said Aotearoa New Zealand could no longer “remain a bystander to the slaughter of innocent people in Gaza”.

    In the fifth day since Israel broke the two-month-old ceasefire and refused to begin negotiations on phase two of the truce — which was supposed to lead to a complete withdrawal of Israeli troops from the besieged enclave and an exchange of hostages — health officials reported that the death toll had risen above 630, mostly children and women.

    Five children were killed in a major overnight air attack on Gaza City and at least eight members of the family remained trapped under the rubble as Israeli attacks continued in the holy fasting month of Ramadan.

    Confirmed casualty figures in Gaza since October 7, 2023, now stand at 49,747 with 113,213 wounded, the Gaza Health Ministry said.

    For more than two weeks, Israel has sealed off border crossings and barred food, water and electricity and today it blew up the Turkish-Palestinian Friendship Hospital, the only medical institution in Gaza able to provide cancer treatment.

    “The research has said it from libraries, libraries and libraries. And what is it doing in Gaza?” said Swarbrick.

    ‘Ethnic cleansing . . . on livestream’
    “It is ethnic cleansing. It is apartheid. It is genocide. And we have that delivered to us by  livestream to each one of us every single day on our cellphones,” she said.

    “That is crazy. It is crazy to wake up every single day to that.”

    Swarbrick said Aotearoa New Zealand must act now to sanction Israel for its crimes — “just like we did with Russia for its illegal action in Ukraine.”

    She said that with the Green Party, Te Pāti Māori and Labour’s committed support, they now needed just six of the 68 government MPs to “pass my Unlawful Occupation of Palestine Sanctions Bill into law”.

    “There’s no more time for talk. If we stand for human rights and peace and justice, our Parliament must act,” she said.

    “Action for Gaza Now” banner heads a march protesting against Israel’s resumed attacks on the besieged Strip in Auckland today. Image: APR

    In September, Aotearoa had joined 123 UN member states to support a resolution calling for sanctions against those responsible for Israel’s “unlawful presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including in relation to settler violence”.

    “Our government has since done nothing to fulfil that commitment. Our Unlawful Occupation of Palestine Sanctions Bill starts that very basic process.

    “No party leader or whip can stop a Member of Parliament exercising their democratic right to vote how they know they need to on this Bill,” she said to resounding cheers.

    ‘No hiding behind party lines’
    “There is no more hiding behind party lines. All 123 Members of Parliament are each individually, personally responsible.”

    Several Palestinian women spoke of the terror with the new wave of Israeli bombings and of their families’ personal connections with the suffering in Gaza, saying it was vitally important to “hear our stories”. Some spoke of the New Zealand government’s “cowardice” for not speaking out in opposition like many other countries.

    About 1000 people took part in the protest in a part of Britomart’s Te Komititanga Square in a section now popularly known as “Palestine Corner”.

    Amid a sea of banners and Palestinian flags there were placards declaring “Stop the genocide”, “Jews for tangata whenua from Aotearoa to Palestine”, “Hands off West Bank End the occupation” , “The people united will never be defeated”, “Decolonise your mind, stand with Palestine,” “Genocide — made in USA”, and “Toitū Te Tiriti Free Palestine”.

    “Genocide – Made in USA” poster at today’s Palestinian solidarity rally. Image: APR

    The ceasefire-breaking Israeli attacks on Gaza have shocked the world and led to three UN General Assembly debates this week on the Middle East.

    France, Germany and Britain are among the latest countries to condemn Israel for breaching the ceasefire — describing it as a “dramatic step backwards”, and France has told the UN that it is opposed to any form of annexation by Israel of any Palestinian territory.

    Meanwhile, Sultan Barakat, a professor at Hamad Bin Khalifa University in Qatar, told Al Jazeera in an interview that the more atrocities Israel committed in Gaza, the more young Palestinian men and women would join Hamas.

    “So it’s not going to disappear any time soon,” he said.

    With Israel killing more than 630 people in five days and cutting off all aid to the Strip for weeks, there was no trust on the part of Hamas to restart the ceasefire, Professor Barakat said.

    “Jews for tangata whenua from Aotearoa to Palestine” . . . a decolonisation placard at today’s Palestine solidarity rally in Auckland. Image: APR

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    March 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: A Plaid Cymru government would “cut taxes to support small Welsh businesses”

    Source: Party of Wales

    Plaid Cymru economy spokesperson Luke Fletcher to announce plans to help local businesses.

    A Plaid Cymru government would cut taxes for small, independent Welsh businesses.

    Plaid Cymru’s economy spokesperson Luke Fletcher is expected to outline his party’s plans during his Spring Conference speech.

    In his speech, Mr Fletcher is expected to highlight the struggles that independent businesses face in Wales, saying that there are “countless examples the length and breadth of Wales where the full potential of our domestic businesses is going unfulfilled”, with “too many independent shops, pubs, cafés and restaurants having to close” which has led to the decline of town centres.

    The Plaid Cymru Economy spokesperson will say that Wales needs to change how it taxes our town centre businesses to realise the potential of town centres and independent businesses.

    He will outline Plaid Cymru’s plans to use the business rate multiplier to “reduce rates for independent businesses in retail or hospitality”.

    According to Mr Fletcher, the policy would be cost-neutral, as a Plaid Cymru-led Government in 2026 would “look at how we charge rates so that those who can afford to pay more, contribute more”.

    In his speech to the Plaid Cymru Spring Conference, Plaid Cymru Economy Spokesperson, Luke Fletcher MS will say,

    “Our high streets provide a lens on the challenges facing Welsh businesses – challenges that Labour in Wales has failed to address or made actively worse over a quarter of a century in power.

    “It’s a story we’re all too familiar with, isn’t it? On high streets across Wales there are empty buildings and shuttered shop fronts where thriving local businesses should be. Pubs, cafés and restaurants, all struggling with a cost-of-doing business crisis – a crisis made worse by sky-high taxes on businesses and Labour’s scrapping of business rates relief.

    “An independent store owner on the high street in Aberystwyth pays nearly ten times more than a major chain on the town’s outskirts, and significantly more than would an equivalent business in England. In Bridgend, a locally owned and managed coffee shop and bakery pays the same level of non-domestic rates as its multinational competitors. Instead of being able to grow and develop as a business, investing locally in the supply chain, training and jobs, it is a business simply looking to survive.

    “There are countless examples the length and breadth of Wales of businesses’ full potential going unfulfilled – too many of what should be successful businesses going to the wall. And the result? Town centres in decline, instead of on the up.

    “I am proud that more and more businesses are looking to Plaid Cymru for the solution. And I am even more proud that we are able to offer one.

    “If we want our town centres to thrive, then we need to change how we tax the businesses on our high streets, to better support the kinds of successful Welsh-owned shops, cafés, bars and restaurants we all go to our town centres for.

    “There’s a solution that is well within our grasp.

    “Through varying the multiplier, we have the power to reduce rates for independent businesses in retail, leisure and hospitality. It really is that simple. And by looking at how we charge rates so that those who can afford to pay contribute more, it would also be cost-neutral.

    Mr Fletcher will also say,

    “In the coming weeks, I will formally be launching ‘Making Wales Work: Plaid Cymru’s new economic plan’. I am proud of the amount of hard work that has gone into this plan, and the new and ambitious vision for the Welsh economy that it represents.

    “That vision and that ambition extends from our seabed to our high streets, and covers everywhere in between.

    “Our plan will see capital built, retained and recycling in our communities, instead of it leaking – and in some cases flooding – out of Wales. It will grow and sustain Welsh-owned businesses, delivering good jobs, reviving our town centres, and boosting living standards.

    “I am clearer now than ever that Wales needs a Government with real vision and with fire in its belly.

    “Wales needs a Plaid Cymru Government – and next year we will have an historic opportunity to deliver one. “

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    March 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM call with King Abdullah II of Jordan: 22 March 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    PM call with King Abdullah II of Jordan: 22 March 2025

    The Prime Minister spoke to His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan this morning.

    The Prime Minister spoke to His Majesty the King of Jordan, Abdullah II this morning.

    The Prime Minister expressed his deep concern about the renewed Israeli military action in Gaza and the lack of humanitarian aid.

    He thanked His Majesty for his country’s leadership and work towards a political solution. He welcomed the Arab Plan for Gaza and commended the efforts of Jordan and partners in the region in developing it. The leaders agreed that they must continue to urge both sides to return to the ceasefire.

    The Prime Minister reiterated that the UK is a strong partner to Jordan and they agreed to keep in close touch.

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    Published 22 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    March 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Secretary-General’s message on World Water Day [scroll down for French version]

    Source: United Nations – English

    he theme of this year’s World Water Day reminds us of a cold, hard truth: glacier preservation is essential for security, prosperity, and justice.

    Glaciers are nature’s vaults, holding a precious resource: nearly 70 per cent of all freshwater on Earth.

    As glaciers melt, they quench the thirst of communities, sustain ecosystems, and support agriculture, industry, and clean energy.  But scorching temperatures are draining these vaults at record speed – from the Himalayas to the Andes, from the Alps to the Arctic.

    Deadly floods are being unleashed, impacting billions of people, in cities and rural areas alike.  Low-lying communities and entire countries are facing existential threats, while competition for water and land is aggravating tensions. 

    Glaciers may be shrinking, but we cannot shrink from our responsibilities.

    The Pact for the Future, agreed by countries last September, commits countries to ambitious action to protect, restore and sustain the world’s glaciers and strengthen community resilience. I have also appointed a Special Envoy on Water to strengthen international cooperation on the sustainable management of freshwater resources.

    Action this year is critical.  Every country must deliver strong national climate action plans – or NDCs – aligned with limiting global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

    Funding for climate adaptation and resilience must increase, supported by reform of the international financial architecture to unlock sustained and massive climate finance.
    Together, let’s act to preserve these frozen lifelines for humanity.

    ***
    Cette année, le thème de la Journée mondiale de l’eau nous rappelle une dure réalité : la préservation des glaciers est essentielle pour la sécurité, la prospérité et la justice.

    Les glaciers sont des réservoirs naturels qui renferment une ressource précieuse : près de 70 % de toute l’eau douce de la planète.

    En fondant, les glaciers étanchent la soif des populations, alimentent les écosystèmes et soutiennent l’agriculture, l’industrie et l’énergie propre. Or, les températures caniculaires assèchent ces réservoirs à une vitesse record, de l’Himalaya aux Andes, en passant par les Alpes et l’Arctique.

    Des inondations meurtrières se déchaînent dans les zones urbaines et rurales, frappant des milliards de personnes. L’existence même des populations vivant dans des zones de faible élévation, voire de pays entiers, est menacée, tandis que la concurrence pour l’eau et les terres aggrave les tensions.

    Si les glaciers reculent, nous, nous ne pouvons pas reculer devant nos responsabilités.

    En adoptant le Pacte pour l’avenir en septembre dernier, les pays se sont engagés à prendre des mesures ambitieuses pour protéger, restaurer et préserver les glaciers de la planète et améliorer la résilience des populations. J’ai également nommé une Envoyée spéciale pour l’eau, qui a pour mission de renforcer la coopération internationale dans le domaine de la gestion durable des ressources en eau douce.

    Il est indispensable d’agir cette année. Chaque pays doit mettre en œuvre de solides plans d’action nationaux pour le climat, ou des contributions déterminées au niveau national, qui cadrent avec l’objectif consistant à limiter à 1,5 degré Celsius le réchauffement planétaire.

    Il faut augmenter le financement de l’adaptation et de la résilience face aux changements climatiques et l’accompagner d’une réforme de l’architecture financière internationale qui permette de débloquer un financement durable et massif de l’action climatique.
    Ensemble, agissons afin de préserver ces poumons gelés pour toute l’humanité.
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

    March 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Video: Europe’s Water Crisis: 4 Effective Solutions

    Source: European Commission (video statements)

    The water crisis in Europe is reaching critical levels. Which water issue affects you most? Is it water scarcity, devastating floods, dangerous pollution, or poor water management? In this video, we delve into the urgent challenges facing the European Union’s water resources and explore 4 effective solutions proposed by the European Commission.

    For more information on the state of Europe’s water follow this link: https://europa.eu/!mV6qcM

    Watch on the Audiovisual Portal of the European Commission: https://audiovisual.ec.europa.eu/en/video/I-269721
    Follow us on:
    -X: https://twitter.com/EU_Commission
    -Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/europeancommission/
    -Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EuropeanCommission
    -LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/european-commission/
    -Medium: https://medium.com/@EuropeanCommission

    Check our website: http://ec.europa.eu/

    00:27 Floods and solutions to them
    01:05 Droughts and possible solutions
    01:30 Pollution and how to tackle it
    02:04 Wasting Fresh Water and how to stop this

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

    MIL OSI Video –

    March 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Press Release 22 March 2025 WMO Secretary-General: We are more than just weather forecasters

    Source: World Meteorological Organization

    This year marks the 75th birthday of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) as a United Nations specialized agency, which has overseen the free and unrestricted exchange of data, products, and services underpinning decisions ranging from daily leisure activities to seasonal crop planting to multi-billion dollar infrastructure investments.

    “We are more than just weather forecasters,” said Celeste Saulo. “WMO makes the world safer, more secure, and prosperous.”

    WMO’s transformation of science into action for the global good is more necessary than at any time in its history. 

    WMO recently confirmed that 2024 was the hottest year on record. Ocean warming and sea level rise is accelerating. Glacier retreat and melting ice threaten long-term changes. This is accompanied by more extreme weather events such as rapidly intensifying tropical cyclones, devastating rainfall, storm surges, flooding, deadly droughts, and wildfires.

    “The theme of this year’s World Meteorological Day – Closing the Early Warning Gap Together – reminds us that, in this new climate reality, early warning systems are not luxuries. They are necessities and sound investments – providing an almost ten-fold return,” said UN Secretary-General António Guterres in a message. 

    “Yet, almost half the world’s countries still lack access to these life-saving systems. It is disgraceful that, in a digital age, lives and livelihoods are being lost because people have no access to effective early warning systems,” he said.

    World Meteorological Day is observed on 23 March each year. It showcases the essential contribution of National Meteorological and Hydrological Services to society and to building a safer, more resilient world.

    “The staff of National Meteorological and Hydrological Services are like doctors and nurses – working 24/7 to safeguard and promote public well-being,” said WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo. 

    “During the past 75 years, we have brought billions of dollars in added value to the global economy. We have saved billions more in averted economic losses from weather, climate and water-related hazards. And we have saved hundreds of thousands of lives,” she said.

    75th birthday of the World Meteorological Organization

    Advances and Gaps

    Every minute of every day, data flows from monitoring stations across the world to weather prediction centers. Millions of individual measurements – from satellites, from stations on the ground, from weather balloons, from ocean buoys and ships, from satellites, from aircraft – and more.

    Without WMO coordination and its unified network, each country would face the impossible task of collecting global data on its own.

    While forecasting capabilities have advanced significantly, gaps remain in observation networks, forecasting accuracy, and access to high-quality climate and hydrological data. 

    Strengthening National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHSs) in developing nations is not only vital for climate adaptation – it is essential for global resilience, security, and economic stability.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    March 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Swimming this summer? Read this first

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    It’s important to take extra care when swimming in inland waterways.

    In brief:

    • Whether you’re swimming a pool or in a waterway, it’s important to keep safe.
    • This story shares safety advice for swimming in backyard and public pools and inland waterways.

    There’s nothing like a swim to cool off in the hot weather.

    Don’t have a backyard pool? Canberra’s public pools are all open for summer. Plan a visit to:

    • Dickson Aquatic Centre
    • Manuka Pool
    • Canberra Olympic Pool
    • Gungahlin Leisure Centre
    • Stromlo Leisure Centre
    • Lakeside Leisure Centre.

    Canberra also has inland waterways where you can swim.

    Wherever you go, these simple guidelines will help you keep safe in and around the water this summer.

    Go prepared

    The ACT has several inland waterways, including Kambah Pool and Cotter Bend.

    Remember to take extra care when swimming in inland waterways. Hazards are always present and can catch you by surprise.

    It doesn’t matter how confident you are in and around the water. You can prepare by following safety advice:

    • Avoid going alone.
    • Tell a responsible person where you are going. Let them know when you plan to return, and what to do if you are late.
    • Always closely supervise children who are in or near the water.
    • Know your limits – consider your swimming ability and endurance before visiting waterways. If unsure, stay away from the water’s edge.
    • Always wear a life jacket when boating and fishing.
    • Understand the dangers. Water depth in rivers can change suddenly and there may be rocks and logs hidden below the surface. Surfaces can be slippery, and currents may be stronger than they appear.
    • Be careful when getting into the water and avoid diving.
    • Check the weather conditions and be prepared for changes regardless of the forecast.
    • Do not enter the water if signs advise of hazards and never enter the water in times of flood.
    • Do not consume alcohol if you are planning on entering waterways or need to supervise children in or near the water.
    • Be prepared for an emergency. Take a first aid kit and ensure people in your group are trained to use it.
    • Carry multiple means of communication, including waterproof options if you are boating or fishing. Check whether your phone has range before entering the water.
    • Locate and keep a look out for emergency phones near waterways in case you do not have good reception.

    Visit the City Services website to check current advice on conditions in Canberra’s lakes, ponds and rivers.

    Be a backyard lifeguard

    Whether it’s your own pool or you’re visiting someone else’s, be a backyard lifeguard. Follow these steps to keep everyone safe this summer.

    • Check that your pool fences, gates and other barriers are secure
    • Keep pool barriers clear of objects and plants that kids can use to climb into pool areas
    • Ensure the pool gate is always shut
    • Actively supervise children in and around the pool
    • Know how to perform CPR
    • Teach kids to swim and be safe around pools
    • Pool toys and floatation aids are for fun, not safety. Stay close and supervise children
    • Avoid alcohol when swimming.

    New rules for home swimming pools in the ACT commence on 1 May 2024. Find out more at Home swimming pool safety reforms – Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate – Planning (act.gov.au)

    For information on being a backyard lifeguard visit planning.act.gov.au/backyardlifeguard.

    Read more like this:

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    MIL OSI News –

    March 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Acton Waterfront park gifted new Ngunnawal name

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    An artist’s impression of the Acton Waterfront park

    The future public park at the Acton Waterfront will be known as Ngamawari (pronounced ‘nar-mar-wa-ree).

    The name was gifted by local Ngunnawal representatives at a special ceremony today, which also saw the National Capital Authority (NCA) announce works approval for the new park.

    Ngamawari – which means ‘cave place’ in Ngunnawal language – recognises the cultural significance of the limestone caves flooded during the creation of Lake Burley Griffin.

    The name signifies these landmarks and the important role they played for shelter and art along the Molonglo River.

    “Ngamawari reflects the truth telling story of this place – a place of significance to Ngunnawal people” Ngunnawal Elder Dr Caroline Hughes AM said.

    “There is so much Ngunnawal history in this place that has not been told such as the limestone caves that have been hidden by Lake Burley Griffin at a time when Ngunnawal were excluded from the conversation and development of Canberra.

    “Ngamawari celebrates and educates all about Ngunnawal Country, history and language,” she said.

    City Renewal Authority CEO Malcolm Snow said the idea to recognise Ngunnawal culture has been a popular theme in public consultations on the Acton Waterfront project.

    “We have been working closely with the Ngunnawal community representatives and artists on how the park’s design can celebrate and embed Ngunnawal culture and history,” Mr Snow said.

    “It is now a great honour to accept this Ngunnawal-language name, which will help forge the identify for what will become a major Canberra destination featuring an adventure playground, cafes, native gardens and events lawns.

    “Thank you to the Ngunnawal community for giving this name to the Acton Waterfront – it is precious gift that will leave its mark on future generations of visitors to the park.”

    The City Renewal Authority wishes to thank the United Ngunnawal Elders Council, Dhawura Ngunnawal Caring for Country Committee and the Winanggaay Ngunnawal Language Aboriginal Corporation for sharing this name, as well as their insights and knowledge of the area.

    The official naming comes as the NCA has provided works approval for the development of the public park following their recent public consultation.

    A tender process is currently underway for the delivery of early works in 2024. It is expected the temporary park will open to the public in 2025-26, followed by the permanent park in 2028.

    Please note: The new park name will officially come into effect once publicly notified on the ACT Legislation Register in early 2024.

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:


    MIL OSI News –

    March 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Day of Remembrance for the Victims of the Terrorist Attack at Crocus City Hall

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    March 22 marks the first anniversary of the inhumane terrorist attack at Crocus City Hall.

    It killed 145 people and injured 551. It was the largest terrorist attack in Russian history in terms of casualties since the hostage taking at School No. 1 in Beslan in 2004.

    On March 22, 2024, at 19:55, before a concert by the rock band Piknik, several armed terrorists entered the Crocus City Hall building, shot the guards, and moved toward the concert hall, killing everyone in their path. They set the hall on fire and left the scene of the crime, heading in a waiting car toward the border with Ukraine.

    Thanks to the prompt actions of law enforcement agencies, 11 suspects were detained the next day, including the perpetrators of the terrorist attack. As of January 2025, 27 defendants have been charged. On March 7, another criminal was detained in the United States, who admitted that he had trained the perpetrators of this terrorist attack.

    A graduate student of the Institute of Information Systems of the State University of Management, member of the All-Russian Student Rescue Corps Matvey Ulyanov participated in the liquidation of the consequences of the fire in Crocus City Hall. Our other students organized donor trips to donate blood and cytoplasm to victims of the terrorist attack.

    Today, the State University of Management remembers the shock and horror that we experienced on the evening of March 22 last year. We express our condolences to the relatives of all those killed and hope that none of us will ever have to experience anything like this again.

    A grand opening of a memorial to the victims of the terrorist attack is planned for March 22, 2025, in front of the Crocus City Hall building.

    Photo by Matvey Ulyanov

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 03/22/2025

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    March 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Homicide investigation launched, South Wairarapa

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Attributable to Detective Inspector John Van De Heuvel:

    Two people have been taken into custody and a homicide investigation launched following the death of a man in South Wairarapa this afternoon (Saturday 22 March).

    Around 4pm Police responded to reports of a firearms incident, where a firearm was discharged at a vehicle exiting the supermarket carpark on State Highway 2, Featherston.

    A short time later a man has been located in Carterton with an apparent gunshot wound, he has since died.

    A second vehicle fled the scene and was intercepted by Police without incident at Kaitoke. The full extent of the two occupants’ involvement is a focus of our investigation.

    State Highway 2 was closed for a period of time, however, has since reopened. A scene examination will continue in Featherston over the coming days. 

    Police would like to hear from anyone who witnessed this event or has any information for the people involved.

    We acknowledge this was a distressing incident for those who witnessed it and the wider community.  Police will have an increased presence in the community as we work to determine what led to the altercation, and who was involved.

    If you have any information that has not been reported to Police, please contact us on 105 either online or over the phone.

    Please reference Operation Ascot – File number: 250322/8281

    ENDS 

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    March 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Plant selector tool helps gardeners be climate-wise

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Landscape architect and founder of The Climate Factory Edwina Robinson recommends the Plant Selector Tool.

    Anyone can be a green thumb if you know what to grow, and a key part of that is understanding your local climate.

    The ACT Government’s Canberra Plant Selector is a free online tool that can help you choose the best plants for your climate-wise garden.

    The tool features over 340 species. You can search for plants suited to Canberra’s climate based on sun, shade, frost tolerance and water needs.

    Climate-wise gardens can help protect you against extreme heat, rainfall events and bushfires.

    Edwina Robinson is a landscape architect and founder of Canberra social enterprise The Climate Factory.

    The Climate Factory builds demonstration micro-forests around Canberra that cool the local environment, and work to inspire others to build their own community micro-forest.

    Edwina recommends gardeners try the Canberra Plant Selector and says your climate-wise garden can help keep your home cool in hot weather – and can also provide a haven for native birds and pollinators.

    “You might choose to have higher water use plants closer to the house. These will look lush and green and help keep your outdoor space cool. And consider incorporating a pond. It could even be a pond in a waterproof pot – full of wetland plants with leaves for dragonflies to land on,” she said.

    “Canberra’s climate is likely, on average, to get hotter and drier in the future. So prepare your garden soil with organic matter. Choose plants carefully. And think about how you will water your plants during dry weather.

    “The Canberra Plant Selector is a must for learning about garden plants. You should also visit local nurseries that specialise in plants for Canberra’s climate. And talk to neighbours who have gardens already,” she said.

    Everyone can help to make Canberra a climate-ready city. As a climate-wise gardener, you can preserve water, reduce urban heat and create important habitat for native species.

    View the Canberra Plant Selector.

    Learn more about sustainable practices at home and at work at climatechoices.act.gov.au or email SustainableHomeAdviceProgram@act.gov.au.

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:


    MIL OSI News –

    March 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Investigation ongoing following firearms incident, Gisborne

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Attributable to Inspector Danny Kirk, Tairawhiti Area Commander:

    Police are investigating reports of shots being fired at a house in Gisborne – the latest in a series of incidents believed to be gang-related.

    About 6:30am today, Police were called to Ranfurly Street after someone living nearby heard a gunshot.

    On arrival, Police determined that a house in the street had been shot at while people were inside.

    It’s incredibly fortunate no one was injured.

    Detectives are investigating this and other incidents in the Kaiti and Mangapapa areas last week, and believe them to be gang-related.

    Police are working closely with gang leaders to work to de-escalate the conflict, and officers will maintain a highly-visible presence in the Gisborne area. Police have no tolerance for behaviour that presents a serious risk to public safety and our response to incidents of violence will be stern.

    Anyone who has immediate concerns for their safety, or that of anyone else, is asked to please call 111.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    March 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Work begins on Belconnen Oval Wetland

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Belconnen Oval Wetland is part of the ACT Government’s Healthy Waterways Program.

    Work on the Belconnen Oval Wetland to improve water quality and catchment health has now commenced.

    The new wetland will help to remove harmful nutrients before they enter Lake Ginninderra and will also provide habitat for native species and provide an excellent place for locals to enjoy.

    There will be new trees and water plants planted around the wetland, which will filter an estimated 30 per cent of harmful nutrients like phosphorous before it enters the lake.

    Temporary fences will surround the area for the community’s safety to restrict access until works are completed. This is expected to happen by mid-2024.

    Belconnen residents were asked to share their thoughts on the project, which shaped an improved final design.

    The Belconnen Oval Wetland is part of the ACT Government’s Healthy Waterways Program, designed to remove pollutants from stormwater before it flows into lakes and ponds.

    Through projects like the floating wetlands in Lake Tuggeranong and the re-naturalisation of Tuggeranong Creek, the government hopes to help foster native biodiversity across the city, reduce harmful pollutants, keep water safe, and preserve Canberra’s natural environment.

    For more information about the construction work and other projects helping to protect local waterways, visit tthe ACT Healthy Waterways Program page on the Environment website.

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:


    MIL OSI News –

    March 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s message on World Water Day [scroll down for French version]

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    The theme of this year’s World Water Day reminds us of a cold, hard truth: glacier preservation is essential for security, prosperity, and justice.

    Glaciers are nature’s vaults, holding a precious resource: nearly 70 per cent of all freshwater on Earth.

    As glaciers melt, they quench the thirst of communities, sustain ecosystems, and support agriculture, industry, and clean energy.  But scorching temperatures are draining these vaults at record speed – from the Himalayas to the Andes, from the Alps to the Arctic.

    Deadly floods are being unleashed, impacting billions of people, in cities and rural areas alike.  Low-lying communities and entire countries are facing existential threats, while competition for water and land is aggravating tensions. 

    Glaciers may be shrinking, but we cannot shrink from our responsibilities.

    The Pact for the Future, agreed by countries last September, commits countries to ambitious action to protect, restore and sustain the world’s glaciers and strengthen community resilience. I have also appointed a Special Envoy on Water to strengthen international cooperation on the sustainable management of freshwater resources.

    Action this year is critical.  Every country must deliver strong national climate action plans – or NDCs – aligned with limiting global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

    Funding for climate adaptation and resilience must increase, supported by reform of the international financial architecture to unlock sustained and massive climate finance.
    Together, let’s act to preserve these frozen lifelines for humanity.

    ***
    Cette année, le thème de la Journée mondiale de l’eau nous rappelle une dure réalité : la préservation des glaciers est essentielle pour la sécurité, la prospérité et la justice.

    Les glaciers sont des réservoirs naturels qui renferment une ressource précieuse : près de 70 % de toute l’eau douce de la planète.

    En fondant, les glaciers étanchent la soif des populations, alimentent les écosystèmes et soutiennent l’agriculture, l’industrie et l’énergie propre. Or, les températures caniculaires assèchent ces réservoirs à une vitesse record, de l’Himalaya aux Andes, en passant par les Alpes et l’Arctique.

    Des inondations meurtrières se déchaînent dans les zones urbaines et rurales, frappant des milliards de personnes. L’existence même des populations vivant dans des zones de faible élévation, voire de pays entiers, est menacée, tandis que la concurrence pour l’eau et les terres aggrave les tensions.

    Si les glaciers reculent, nous, nous ne pouvons pas reculer devant nos responsabilités.

    En adoptant le Pacte pour l’avenir en septembre dernier, les pays se sont engagés à prendre des mesures ambitieuses pour protéger, restaurer et préserver les glaciers de la planète et améliorer la résilience des populations. J’ai également nommé une Envoyée spéciale pour l’eau, qui a pour mission de renforcer la coopération internationale dans le domaine de la gestion durable des ressources en eau douce.

    Il est indispensable d’agir cette année. Chaque pays doit mettre en œuvre de solides plans d’action nationaux pour le climat, ou des contributions déterminées au niveau national, qui cadrent avec l’objectif consistant à limiter à 1,5 degré Celsius le réchauffement planétaire.

    Il faut augmenter le financement de l’adaptation et de la résilience face aux changements climatiques et l’accompagner d’une réforme de l’architecture financière internationale qui permette de débloquer un financement durable et massif de l’action climatique.
    Ensemble, agissons afin de préserver ces poumons gelés pour toute l’humanité.
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    March 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Lights, camera, action! AUSTIN begins filming

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    AUSTIN stars Ben Miller, Michael Theo, and Sally Phillips.

    Cameras have officially started rolling on AUSTIN, a new eight-part ABC comedy series being filmed in Canberra.

    Produced by the award-winning team at Northern Pictures – in partnership with the ABC, Screen Australia, ITV Studios, and Screen Canberra – AUSTIN is the acting debut for Love on the Spectrum fan-favourite Michael Theo, who will star in the series alongside two renowned UK actors, Ben Miller and Sally Phillips.

    About AUSTIN

    When much-loved children’s author Julian Hartswood (Ben Miller) inadvertently causes a social media storm, his career and that of his illustrator wife Ingrid (Sally Phillips) appears to be over. That is until Austin (Michael Theo), the neurodivergent son that Julian never knew existed, turns up out of the blue. 

    Could embracing this modern nuclear family be Julian’s route back from cancellation? Will Ingrid forgive him? One thing is for certain: if Julian thinks Austin is going to be a push over, he’s in for a rude awakening.

    Production brings support for the local screen industry 

    Supported by the ACT Government and Screen Canberra through the CBR Screen Attraction Fund and CBR Screen Investment Fund, this series will be filmed almost entirely in Canberra, with one week of filming in the UK.  

    The 28-day shoot will provide training and employment opportunities for local industry and significant economic expenditure.

    MIL OSI News –

    March 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: ACT netball court upgrades begin

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Netball is one of the Canberra’s most popular sports with over 12,000 participants.

    Netball courts around Canberra will begin receiving upgrades from today, giving players and officials improved facilities.

    The work planned across the city’s five district netball facilities will include improvements to playing surfaces, fencing, drainage and stormwater management.

    The ACT Government is working with Netball ACT, following their ongoing engagement and advocacy on behalf of the local netball community.

    Netball is one of Canberra’s most popular sports with over 12,000 participants.

    The upgrades align with the vision of the ACT Government’s CBR Next Move Sport and Recreation Strategy, to get all Canberrans moving more through sport and active recreation.

    Netball ACT’s courts remediation project will be staged over two years, with works at the Arawang Netball Association facility in Stirling starting today, and work commencing at the Canberra Netball Association facility in Lyneham also.

    South Canberra, Belconnen and Tuggeranong will receive their improvements later in 2024.

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:


    MIL OSI News –

    March 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: French, German, British FMs call for immediate return to ceasefire in Gaza

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    The foreign ministers of France, Germany, and Britain (the E3) called for an immediate return to a ceasefire in Gaza on Friday.

    “The resumption of Israeli strikes in Gaza marks a dramatic step backward for the people of Gaza, the hostages, their families and the entire region,” the ministers said in a joint statement released late evening, calling on “all parties to re-engage with negotiations to ensure the ceasefire is implemented in full and becomes permanent.”

    MIL OSI China News –

    March 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Germany: Unchanged global climate policies will cost India 19% and world 15% of GDP by 2050 | Interview with The Economic Times

    Source: Deutsche Bundesbank in English

    The interview was conducted by Deepshikha Sikarwar & Vinay Pandey.
    How do you see US president Donald Trump’s election weighing in on the entire climate debate?
    We are central bankers and supervisors, so we are non-political. We are data-dependent and science-based. We are here together to discuss the impact of climate and nature-related risks on our economies. Talking about climate change in general, there are two major risks: physical risks; meaning increasing numbers of droughts, floods, hurricanes and wildfires. And transition risks, which are the costs and consequences of the transition to net zero.
    If climate policy falls short then, of course, economic and financial risks will increase. That’s what central banks must look at. We analyze the data and see what kind of impact climate change has on the economy. That’s our job. We must deal with these risks, and we will address them, also towards governments.
    What does the withdrawal of the US Federal Reserve mean for NGFS and its agenda? 
    The NGFS was founded at the end of 2017. At that time, we were only eight members. Now we are 144. The Fed, as you just mentioned, left in January. Except for the US, none of the members have exited so far. Instead, thirteen new members have joined since I took over as NGFS Chair at the start of 2024. So, we are still a growing organization.
    And our agenda stays the same, because it has nothing to do with the exit of one member. If we see deregulation, if we see climate being taken off the policy agenda, then we might see increasing physical risk, meaning an acceleration of climate change. And that might mean that we even become more vocal on the risks we see.
    How do you see India’s progress? What more needs to be done?
    It’s not up to me to judge the stance and actions of our colleagues from the Reserve Bank of India. I just mentioned our latest update on the long-term scenarios about GDP being 15 % lower, worldwide, than in a world without climate change. For India, the GDP loss is even bigger. If the world keeps its current policies unchanged, global temperatures are expected to rise by three degrees Celsius (on average). And this could cost India roughly 19 % of GDP by 2050, compared to a world without climate change. So, for India, we show that climate change can have even more serious consequences than elsewhere. And, at the same time, the scenarios show that India is among those countries who would benefit the most from a global transition towards net zero emissions.
    You’ve said your actions are data dependent. What is the data telling us in terms of the economic impact of climate change? Because there is also a pushback.
    We are analytical powerhouses. Our climate scenarios are our flagship product. We have set up different long-term scenarios. For example, a current policy scenario or a fragmented world one, where climate policy is delayed, divergent and/or insufficient across the globe. Or a scenario where policy would bring us to a Paris-aligned world. We look at what those different climate scenarios mean in economic terms, for GDP, inflation, productivity, and so on.
    The fifth vintage of our long-term climate scenarios was published at the start of November last year. It told us that under the current policies scenario, global GDP will be 15 % lower globally in 2050 than it would be without climate change. This is a striking number, and in fact we have reason to believe that it doesn’t even show the full picture, because we do not yet have a full set of data. It does not reflect, for example, future sea level rises, or the kind of climate migration that we might see. When we have more data, we will get more insights, and the results might even change.
    What has the conversation been like at the plenary in the backdrop of the US exit and what is the assessment of the progress made so far?
    We’ve never seen such a strong commitment as we see here in India today. More than 100 people from over 60 countries came from all around the world to be here in person. Another 100 people participated virtually. We’ve never had so many senior level representatives from central banks and financial supervisors. We have more than 25 governors or deputy governors here in India at our annual meeting. 
    What we’ve reflected on today is how political headwinds, deregulation, impact our work. And our work stays the same, because we are non-political animals, and we stick to our mandates. With so many central banks from all over the world in our network, we all have different mandates. In emerging markets or developing countries, the mandates are often not as narrow as they are in, for example, Europe. So, we do have members with broader mandates. That allows them to do different things, such as promoting green finance or other financial sector development.
    Most central banks have initiated some sort of action on tackling climate change and its economic impact. What is your assessment of the progress and what more is needed?
    With 144 members from all over the globe, there are members at completely different stages, depending on when they started and how big their capacities are. Some members are very advanced, like the French, the Dutch, the UK, and there are those who have just started or are so small that they barely have capacity.
    What are the advanced central banks doing? They have started with climate stress testing in the banking sector. For example, in Europe, we have already done a few climate stress tests. In India, Brazil and many countries in Africa, you see that climate change strongly affects food prices. We also see, in some African countries for example, that energy prices are significantly affected by climate change. We cannot rely on past data or experiences; we need a forward-looking perspective. There’s a lot of uncertainty and non-linearity. So, we must work in terms of scenarios.
    When the NGFS was set up in December 2017, there were some central banks who thought, “oh my god, there’s climate change and we do not know at all whether this will affect our work, our mandates”. We thought, “this might be such a big threat that it’s better to collaborate, put together all the resources we have and to see what will come out”. This is why the NGFS was set up. Over the years, we have not only realized that climate change really matters to the economy but also confirmed that it affects our mandates.
    The whole idea of this network is that we share our knowledge amongst our members. This is the benefit of being a member of the NGFS. And we also produce public goods like the scenarios mentioned, which can be used by financial sector players and policymakers beyond the network.
    Different governments have different commitments to climate change and central banks have different mandates. Given that, how effective can this body be?
    Climate policy is not part of our mandate. What governments do is another thing. Of course, our analysis shows that if governments take less action on climate, it will have a huge impact on the economy, often also on inflation.
    You are right, central banks globally have a wide range of different tasks and mandates. But this is also the beauty of our network. 144 different organisations learn from each other. Many members – for example emerging markets – have a lot in common with each other. These countries often form groups among peers so that they can share experience and best practice.
    Any thinking on short-term scenario mapping?
    We will soon publish our short-term scenarios with a time horizon of three to five years, hopefully in the first half of the year. We think it is important to show what will happen within this time horizon.
    Not many care about 2050 and 2100. Not many of us work over this time horizon. If you are a CEO, your contract lasts 3‑5 years. If you’re a politician, you want to be re-elected within 3‑5 years. A scenario which tells you what might happen in 2050, of course, really matters for human beings. But, to tell the story to someone who thinks short term, you need also short-term scenarios.
    © The Times Group. All rigths reserved.

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI German News –

    March 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Seeking stunning photos of weather phenomena from across Australia

    Source: Australia Safe Travel Advisories

    21/03/2025

    Issued: Friday 21 March 2025

    Submit your best weather photos to the Bureau of Meteorology’s 2026 Australian Weather Calendar competition for the chance to be featured in the next edition.

    The 2025 edition of the calendar featured an atmospheric foggy sunrise over Mornington, Western Australia, a glowing aurora australis from Squeaking Point, Tasmania and a stunning storm and rainbow combination in Nightcliff, Northern Territory.

    Each year, 13 photos sent in by photographers from all corners of the country are selected by a panel of Bureau judges to feature on the calendar’s cover and each month.

    The calendar includes a meteorological description explaining the science behind each of the phenomena, written by the Bureau’s meteorologists, beside each photo.

    Senior Meteorologist Andrea Peace, one of the judges of the competition, encourages people from all corners of the country to send in their spectacular weather photos.

    “The Bureau invites anyone who has taken a great weather photo anywhere in Australia to submit it for the next edition of the Australian Weather Calendar,” she said.

    “One of the most rewarding parts of my position at the Bureau is being involved in judging the competition and seeing all the incredible photos submitted, featuring the diverse array of weather the Bureau forecasts in Australia.”

    Competition entries close for judging at 5:00pm (AEDT) on 31 March 2025.

    To be eligible for the calendar, photos must be original and with only minor adjustments accepted, which must be listed with the entry.

    Images cannot be digitally enhanced, altered or manipulated (including via the use of filters and digital software).

    The Bureau’s Australian Weather Calendar is released annually, with photo entries remaining open perpetually for future editions.

    For the full terms and conditions of entry, and to submit a photo, visit: http://www.bom.gov.au/calendar/contest/

    [ENDS]

    MIL OSI News –

    March 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Janesville Man Sentenced to 7 ½ Years for Fentanyl Trafficking and Illegally Possessing Firearms

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Cedric Sanders, 26, Janesville, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 7 ½ years in federal prison for possessing fentanyl intended for distribution and possessing firearms as a felon.  Sanders pleaded guilty to these charges on December 5, 2024.

    In November 2023, Sanders sold fentanyl to a confidential informant on two occasions and to an undercover officer on two occasions. In December 2023, officers searched three homes and two vehicles connected to Sanders. During those searches, officers found two firearms, firearm magazines, ammunition, a firearm suppressor, and a high-capacity firearm drum magazine. They also found $12,960 in cash and 4,545 pills (approximately 396 grams) of fentanyl. Sanders is prohibited from legally possessing firearms because of prior felony convictions.

    At sentencing, Judge Conley found that the dangers of distributing fentanyl combined with Sanders’s illegal possession of two firearms warranted a significant prison sentence.

    The charges against Sanders were the result of an investigation conducted by the Janesville Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The ATF Madison Crime Gun Task Force also assisted with the case. The ATF Madison Crime Gun Task Force consists of federal agents from ATF and Task Force Officers (TFOs) from state and local agencies throughout the Western District of Wisconsin. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer Remington and William Levins prosecuted this case.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America. Operation Take Back America is a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

    MIL Security OSI –

    March 22, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Madison Man Sentenced to 7 Years for Illegally Possessing a Firearm

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that James Stevens, 42, Madison, Wisconsin, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 7 years in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a felon. Stevens pleaded guilty to this charge on December 11, 2024.

    Agents with the Wisconsin Department of Justice used a confidential informant to purchase cocaine and heroin from Stevens. During the investigation, agents searched Stevens’s home and seized 224 grams of cocaine. Agents also found a loaded Smith & Wesson M&P .40 caliber handgun hidden in Stevens’s couch. Stevens is prohibited from legally possessing firearms because of a prior felony conviction

    In choosing a sentence, Judge Conley balanced Stevens’s stated desire to turn his life around with the danger he posed to the community.

    The charge against Stevens was the result of an investigation conducted by the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation and the Madison Police Department. The ATF Madison Crime Gun Task Force also assisted with the case. The ATF Madison Crime Gun Task Force consists of federal agents from ATF and Task Force Officers (TFOs) from state and local agencies throughout the Western District of Wisconsin. Assistant U.S. Attorney Louis Glinzak prosecuted this case.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America. Operation Take Back America is a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

    MIL Security OSI –

    March 22, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: Top Pacific diplomats ready for direct talks on Bougainville independence

    By Leah Lowonbu, Stefan Armbruster and Harlyne Joku of BenarNews

    The Pacific’s peak diplomatic bodies have signalled they are ready to engage with Papua New Guinea’s Autonomous Government of Bougainville as mediation begins on the delayed ratification of its successful 2019 independence referendum.

    PNG and Bougainville’s leaders met in the capital Port Moresby this week with a moderator to start negotiations on the implementation of the UN-supervised Bougainville Peace Agreement and referendum.

    Ahead of the talks, ABG’s President Ishmael Toroama moved to sideline a key sticking point over PNG parliamentary ratification of the vote, with the announcement last week that Bougainville would unilaterally declare independence on September 1, 2027.

    The region’s two leading intergovernmental organisations — Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) and Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) — have traditionally deferred to member state PNG on discussion of Bougainville independence as an internal matter.

    But as a declaration of nationhood becomes increasingly likely and near, there has been a subtle shift.

    “It’s their [PNG’s] prerogative but if this matter were raised formally, even by Bougainville themselves, we can start discussion on that,” PIF Secretary-General Baron Waqa told a press briefing at its headquarters in Fiji on Monday.

    “Whatever happens, I think the issue would have to be decided by our leaders later this year,” he said of the annual PIF meeting to be held in Solomon Islands in September.

    Marked peace deal
    The last time the Pacific’s leaders included discussion of Bougainville in their official communique was in 2004 to mark the disarmament of the island under the peace deal.

    Waqa said Bougainville had made no formal approach to PIF — a grouping of 18 Pacific states and territories — but it was closely monitoring developments on what could eventually lead to the creation of a new member state.

    PNG Prime Minister James Marape (second from left) and Bougainville President Ishmael Toroama (right) during mediation in the capital Port Moresby this week. Image: Autonomous Government of Bougainville/BenarNews

    In 2024, Toroama told BenarNews he would be seeking observer status at the subregional MSG — grouping PNG, Fiji, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu and New Caledonia’s FLNKS — as Bougainville’s first diplomatic foray.

    No application has been made yet but MSG acting Director-General Ilan Kiloe told BenarNews they were also keeping a close watch.

    “Our rules and regulations require that we engage through PNG and we will take our cue from them,” Kiloe said, adding while the MSG respects the sovereignty of its members, “if requested, we will provide assistance” to Bougainville.

    “The purpose and reason the MSG was established initially was to advance the collective interests of the Melanesian countries, in particular, to assist those yet to attain independence,” he said. “And to provide support towards their aim of becoming independent countries.”

    Map showing Papua New Guinea, its neighboring countries and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville. Map: BenarNews

    The 2001 peace agreement ended more than a decade of bloody conflict  known as the Bougainville crisis, that resulted in the deaths of up to 15,000 people, and laid out a roadmap for disarmament and the referendum in 2019.

    ‘We need support’
    Under the agreement, PNG retains responsibility for foreign affairs but allows for the ABG to engage externally for trade and with “regional organisations.”

    “We need countries to support us, we need to talk to those countries [ahead of independence],” Toroama told BenarNews last September.

    The referendum on independence was supported by 97.7 percent of Bougainvillians and the outcome was due to be ratified by PNG’s Parliament in 2020, but was deferred because of the covid-19 pandemic.

    Discussions by the two parties since on whether a simple or two-thirds majority vote by parliamentarians was required has further delayed the process.

    Toroama stood firm on the issue of ratification on the first day of discussions moderated by New Zealand’s Sir Jerry Mataparae, saying his people voted for independence and the talks were to define the “new relationship” between two independent states.

    Last week, the 15 members of the Bougainville Leaders Independence Consultation Forum issued a statement declaring PNG had no authority to veto the referendum result and recommended September 1, 2027 as the declaration date.

    Bougainville Leaders Consultation Forum declaration setting September 1, 2027, as the date for their independence declaration. Image: AGB/BenarNews

    “As far as I am concerned, the process of negotiating independence was concluded with the referendum,” Toroama said.

    Implementation moderation
    “My understanding is that this moderation is about reaching agreement on implementing the referendum result of independence.”

    He told Marape “to take ownership and endorse independence in this 11th Parliament.”

    PNG’s prime minister responded by praising the 25 years of peace “without a single bullet fired” but warned Bougainville was not ready for independence.

    “Economic independence must precede political independence,” Marape said. “The long-term sustainability of Bougainville must be factored into these discussions.”

    “About 95 percent of Bougainville’s budget is currently reliant on external support, including funding from the PNG government and international donors.”

    Proposals to reopen Rio Tinto’s former Panguna gold and copper mine in Bougainville, that sparked its civil conflict, is a regular feature of debate about its economic future.

    Front page of the Post-Courier newspaper after the first day of mediation on Bougainville’s independence this week. Image: Post-Courier/BenarNews

    Marape also suggested people may be secretly harbouring weapons in breach of the peace agreement and called on the UN to clarify the outcome of the disarmament process it supervised.

    “Headlines have come out that guns remain in Bougainville. United Nations, how come guns remain in Bougainville?” Marape asked on Monday.

    “You need to tell me. This is something you know. I thought all guns were removed from Bougainville.”

    PNG relies on aid
    By comparison, PNG has heavily relied on foreign financial assistance since independence, currently receiving at about US$320 million (1.3 billion kina) a year in budgetary support from Australia, and suffers regular tribal violence and massacres involving firearms including assault rifles.

    Bougainville Vice-President Patrick Nisira rejected Marape’s concerns about weapons, the Post-Courier newspaper reported.

    “The usage of those guns, there is no evidence of that and if you look at the data on Bougainville where [there are] incidents of guns, it is actually very low,” he said.

    Further talks are planned and are due to produce a report for the national Parliament by mid-2025, ahead of elections in Bougainville and PNG’s 50th anniversary celebrations in September.

    Republished from BenarNews with permission.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    March 22, 2025
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