Category: Natural Disasters

MIL-OSI Security: Met Mourns Former Commissioner Lord Ian Blair

Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

Former Metropolitan Police Commissioner Lord Ian Blair sadly passed away on Wednesday, 9 July following an illness.

An Oxford graduate, Lord Ian joined the Met in 1974 where he started his policing career on the beat in Soho and as a DCI later played a key role in identifying victims of the Kings Cross Station fire in 1987.

He went on to serve in high-profile leadership roles across the country including Assistant Chief Constable of Thames Valley Police and Chief Constable of Surrey Police, and returned to the Met as Deputy Commissioner in 2000. He was appointed Commissioner in 2005.

Lord Ian was given a life peerage in 2010 and made an enormous contribution to modern policing. This included overhauling the approach to rape investigations, the implementation of the neighbourhood policing model and the introduction of community support officers.

Met Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley said:

“Lord Ian’s passing is a huge loss to the police family. He dedicated his life to policing and will be remembered as one of the most influential police leaders of recent decades.

“He oversaw some of the most challenging moments in our history – not least the response to the horrific terror attacks on 7 July 2005 which we commemorated earlier this week.

“Lord Ian will also be remembered for the vast contribution he made to improving our overall approach to policing and the service we provide to victims. What is now seen as best practice in rape cases is in large part a result of his empathy and foresight. He was passionate about the British Policing model based around communities and introduced neighbourhood policing and PCSOs as Commissioner.

“Even after leaving the Met, he continued to be friend of policing and police officers, contributing thoughtfully from his position in the House of Lords.

“My thoughts and the thoughts of everyone at the Met are with Lord Ian’s family and friends during this difficult time, and particularly his wife, Felicity and their children Amelia and Josh.”

MIL Security OSI –

July 12, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Kaine Statement on Trump Administration’s Gutting of the State Department Workforce

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, released the following statement regarding reports that the Trump Administration will soon fire nearly 15 percent of the State Department’s domestic workforce:

“President Trump and Secretary of State Rubio are once again making America less safe and less secure. A strong State Department—one that is not only fully staffed, but staffed by qualified experts free from political pressure—is essential to our national security. This is one of the most ridiculous decisions that could possibly be made at a time when China is increasing its diplomatic footprint around the world and establishing an overseas network of military and transportation bases, Russia is continuing its years-long brutal assault of a sovereign country, and the Middle East is careening from crisis to crisis. Our dedicated State Department workforce, their families, and the American people deserve better.”

MIL OSI USA News –

July 12, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: AG Brown blocks returns and sales of machine-gun conversion devices in Washington

Source: Washington State News

SEATTLE — The Trump administration has committed in court filings to carving out Washington and other states from its illegal plans to distribute thousands of machine-gun conversion devices nationwide following a lawsuit from Attorney General Nick Brown and 15 other states’ attorneys general.

In submissions made in the multistate litigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) has expressly confirmed to a judge that it will not return forced reset triggers in the plaintiff states. In addition, Rare Breed Triggers, the country’s largest purveyor of forced reset triggers, has confirmed in its court filings that it will not sell any of these devices in the plaintiff states. As a result, the coalition is withdrawing its motion for a preliminary injunction.

“It is unfortunate that litigation was necessary when the federal government could have made these commitments much earlier,” Brown said. “But I will do everything possible to keep Washingtonians safe from dangerous machine-gun conversion devices.”

In recent years, machine-gun conversion devices like forced reset triggers, which dramatically increase a firearm’s rate of fire, have been frequently used in violent crimes and mass shootings, worsening the gun violence epidemic in the United States. Firearms equipped with these devices are able to exceed the rate of fire of many military machine guns, firing up to 20 bullets in one second. ATF has noted a significant rise in the use of these devices, leading to increasing incidents of machine-gun fire — up 1,400% from 2019 through 2021.

In addition to Washington, the other plaintiffs are Delaware, Maryland, Colorado, Hawai’i, Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, and the District of Columbia.

The case, which remains active, was filed June 9. Read more about the lawsuit here.

-30-

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MIL OSI USA News –

July 12, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: 30th Anniversary of the Genocide in Srebrenica & other topics – Daily Press Briefing |11 Jul 25 | UN

Source: United Nations (video statements)

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

Highlights:
– 30th Anniversary of the Genocide in Srebrenica
– Occupied Palestinian Territory
– Syria
– Memorandum of Understanding between the UN and the Russian Federation
– Haiti
– Attacks in the Red Sea
– Sudan
– Central African Republic
– World Population Day
– International Days
– Briefings

30TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE GENOCIDE IN SREBRENICA
Today is the International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the 1995 Genocide in Srebrenica. In a message for the Day, the Secretary-General notes that as we mark this anniversary in Srebrenica – the worst atrocity on European soil since the Second World War. He stresses that this day is not only a moment of reflection, it is also a call to vigilance and action.
The Secretary-General points out that at a time when hate speech, denial and division are gaining ground, we must stand firm for truth and justice, adding that we must detect early warning signs and respond before violence takes hold, and that we must respect international law, we must defend human rights, and we must uphold the dignity of every individual, and also invest in reconciliation and peace.
And also to note that Rosemary DiCarlo, the Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, represented the Secretary-General at the official ceremony that took place in Bosnia-Herzegovina today. In her remarks, she noted that the genocide in Srebrenica remains one of the darkest chapters in Europe’s recent history, a stark reminder of the consequences of hatred, division and the failure to protect civilians. She emphasized that the legacy of Srebrenica must be a world that never again turns away in the face of atrocity.
Also present from the UN side was Miguel Ángel Moratinos, the High Representative for the UN Alliance of Civilizations.

OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY
Turning to the situation in Gaza, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs says that every day without a ceasefire brings more preventable deaths – children dying in pain, and hungry people shot while trying to reach the trickle of aid that is allowed in.
And today, once again, we’ve seen horrifying reports of casualties – dozens of them – among people in Rafah who were simply trying to get food and other basic supplies for their families.
Meanwhile, the fuel crisis remains acute.
Yesterday – for the second straight day – our colleagues were able to pick up 75,000 litres of fuel and bring them to the Gaza strip. This is of course a positive development. However, these amounts are a small portion of what is actually required to sustain lifesaving operations every day in Gaza.
To be clear: fuel is still running out in Gaza. More fuel is needed than what is actually brought in. If the current limits aren’t lifted immediately, so we can bring in greater volumes, more services will go dark
We also urgently need unimpeded, safe access inside Gaza. Yesterday, our teams could provide hospitals with some of the fuel that came in – but only in the south. That’s because Israeli authorities denied our attempt to bring fuel to the north.
Such denials are life-threatening.
We know that hospitals in the north are on the verge of shutting down. But it’s not just hospitals: Fuel is also running out for ambulances, it is running out for water treatment facilities and it is running out for many other essential services, all of which are at risk of collapsing.
Overall, out of the 15 humanitarian movements attempted yesterday where coordination was required with the Israeli authorities, five were denied outright, four were initially approved but then faced impediments on the ground, and only six were fully facilitated. Critical missions – such as the evacuation of vulnerable people from high-risk areas, the retrieval of vehicles and spare tires, and the assessment of medical equipment – could not be accomplished.
The facilitation of movements also needs to be timely. OCHA reports that on Wednesday, Israeli authorities denied a request to reach part of Gaza city where 18 injured people were trapped under the rubble. By the time the mission was finally allowed through yesterday, no one was found alive.
And another important reminder from OCHA is that much-needed operations, such as the distribution of tents, cannot even be attempted as stocks are fully depleted, and Israeli authorities are blocking the entry of any shelter materials – for over 130 days now.
Meanwhile, active hostilities and insecurity continue to put civilians – including aid workers – at risk.

Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=11%20July%202025

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zaRLMEnXA9A

MIL OSI Video –

July 12, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: 30th Anniversary of the Genocide in Srebrenica & other topics – Daily Press Briefing |11 Jul 25 | UN

Source: United Nations (video statements)

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

Highlights:
– 30th Anniversary of the Genocide in Srebrenica
– Occupied Palestinian Territory
– Syria
– Memorandum of Understanding between the UN and the Russian Federation
– Haiti
– Attacks in the Red Sea
– Sudan
– Central African Republic
– World Population Day
– International Days
– Briefings

30TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE GENOCIDE IN SREBRENICA
Today is the International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the 1995 Genocide in Srebrenica. In a message for the Day, the Secretary-General notes that as we mark this anniversary in Srebrenica – the worst atrocity on European soil since the Second World War. He stresses that this day is not only a moment of reflection, it is also a call to vigilance and action.
The Secretary-General points out that at a time when hate speech, denial and division are gaining ground, we must stand firm for truth and justice, adding that we must detect early warning signs and respond before violence takes hold, and that we must respect international law, we must defend human rights, and we must uphold the dignity of every individual, and also invest in reconciliation and peace.
And also to note that Rosemary DiCarlo, the Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, represented the Secretary-General at the official ceremony that took place in Bosnia-Herzegovina today. In her remarks, she noted that the genocide in Srebrenica remains one of the darkest chapters in Europe’s recent history, a stark reminder of the consequences of hatred, division and the failure to protect civilians. She emphasized that the legacy of Srebrenica must be a world that never again turns away in the face of atrocity.
Also present from the UN side was Miguel Ángel Moratinos, the High Representative for the UN Alliance of Civilizations.

OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY
Turning to the situation in Gaza, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs says that every day without a ceasefire brings more preventable deaths – children dying in pain, and hungry people shot while trying to reach the trickle of aid that is allowed in.
And today, once again, we’ve seen horrifying reports of casualties – dozens of them – among people in Rafah who were simply trying to get food and other basic supplies for their families.
Meanwhile, the fuel crisis remains acute.
Yesterday – for the second straight day – our colleagues were able to pick up 75,000 litres of fuel and bring them to the Gaza strip. This is of course a positive development. However, these amounts are a small portion of what is actually required to sustain lifesaving operations every day in Gaza.
To be clear: fuel is still running out in Gaza. More fuel is needed than what is actually brought in. If the current limits aren’t lifted immediately, so we can bring in greater volumes, more services will go dark
We also urgently need unimpeded, safe access inside Gaza. Yesterday, our teams could provide hospitals with some of the fuel that came in – but only in the south. That’s because Israeli authorities denied our attempt to bring fuel to the north.
Such denials are life-threatening.
We know that hospitals in the north are on the verge of shutting down. But it’s not just hospitals: Fuel is also running out for ambulances, it is running out for water treatment facilities and it is running out for many other essential services, all of which are at risk of collapsing.
Overall, out of the 15 humanitarian movements attempted yesterday where coordination was required with the Israeli authorities, five were denied outright, four were initially approved but then faced impediments on the ground, and only six were fully facilitated. Critical missions – such as the evacuation of vulnerable people from high-risk areas, the retrieval of vehicles and spare tires, and the assessment of medical equipment – could not be accomplished.
The facilitation of movements also needs to be timely. OCHA reports that on Wednesday, Israeli authorities denied a request to reach part of Gaza city where 18 injured people were trapped under the rubble. By the time the mission was finally allowed through yesterday, no one was found alive.
And another important reminder from OCHA is that much-needed operations, such as the distribution of tents, cannot even be attempted as stocks are fully depleted, and Israeli authorities are blocking the entry of any shelter materials – for over 130 days now.
Meanwhile, active hostilities and insecurity continue to put civilians – including aid workers – at risk.

Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=11%20July%202025

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zaRLMEnXA9A

MIL OSI Video –

July 12, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: 30th Anniversary of the Genocide in Srebrenica & other topics – Daily Press Briefing |11 Jul 25 | UN

Source: United Nations (video statements)

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

Highlights:
– 30th Anniversary of the Genocide in Srebrenica
– Occupied Palestinian Territory
– Syria
– Memorandum of Understanding between the UN and the Russian Federation
– Haiti
– Attacks in the Red Sea
– Sudan
– Central African Republic
– World Population Day
– International Days
– Briefings

30TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE GENOCIDE IN SREBRENICA
Today is the International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the 1995 Genocide in Srebrenica. In a message for the Day, the Secretary-General notes that as we mark this anniversary in Srebrenica – the worst atrocity on European soil since the Second World War. He stresses that this day is not only a moment of reflection, it is also a call to vigilance and action.
The Secretary-General points out that at a time when hate speech, denial and division are gaining ground, we must stand firm for truth and justice, adding that we must detect early warning signs and respond before violence takes hold, and that we must respect international law, we must defend human rights, and we must uphold the dignity of every individual, and also invest in reconciliation and peace.
And also to note that Rosemary DiCarlo, the Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, represented the Secretary-General at the official ceremony that took place in Bosnia-Herzegovina today. In her remarks, she noted that the genocide in Srebrenica remains one of the darkest chapters in Europe’s recent history, a stark reminder of the consequences of hatred, division and the failure to protect civilians. She emphasized that the legacy of Srebrenica must be a world that never again turns away in the face of atrocity.
Also present from the UN side was Miguel Ángel Moratinos, the High Representative for the UN Alliance of Civilizations.

OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY
Turning to the situation in Gaza, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs says that every day without a ceasefire brings more preventable deaths – children dying in pain, and hungry people shot while trying to reach the trickle of aid that is allowed in.
And today, once again, we’ve seen horrifying reports of casualties – dozens of them – among people in Rafah who were simply trying to get food and other basic supplies for their families.
Meanwhile, the fuel crisis remains acute.
Yesterday – for the second straight day – our colleagues were able to pick up 75,000 litres of fuel and bring them to the Gaza strip. This is of course a positive development. However, these amounts are a small portion of what is actually required to sustain lifesaving operations every day in Gaza.
To be clear: fuel is still running out in Gaza. More fuel is needed than what is actually brought in. If the current limits aren’t lifted immediately, so we can bring in greater volumes, more services will go dark
We also urgently need unimpeded, safe access inside Gaza. Yesterday, our teams could provide hospitals with some of the fuel that came in – but only in the south. That’s because Israeli authorities denied our attempt to bring fuel to the north.
Such denials are life-threatening.
We know that hospitals in the north are on the verge of shutting down. But it’s not just hospitals: Fuel is also running out for ambulances, it is running out for water treatment facilities and it is running out for many other essential services, all of which are at risk of collapsing.
Overall, out of the 15 humanitarian movements attempted yesterday where coordination was required with the Israeli authorities, five were denied outright, four were initially approved but then faced impediments on the ground, and only six were fully facilitated. Critical missions – such as the evacuation of vulnerable people from high-risk areas, the retrieval of vehicles and spare tires, and the assessment of medical equipment – could not be accomplished.
The facilitation of movements also needs to be timely. OCHA reports that on Wednesday, Israeli authorities denied a request to reach part of Gaza city where 18 injured people were trapped under the rubble. By the time the mission was finally allowed through yesterday, no one was found alive.
And another important reminder from OCHA is that much-needed operations, such as the distribution of tents, cannot even be attempted as stocks are fully depleted, and Israeli authorities are blocking the entry of any shelter materials – for over 130 days now.
Meanwhile, active hostilities and insecurity continue to put civilians – including aid workers – at risk.

Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=11%20July%202025

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zaRLMEnXA9A

MIL OSI Video –

July 12, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven: FAA Awards $13.4 Million to Hector International Airport for Terminal Expansion Project
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven
07.11.25

FAA Also Awards Nearly $18 Million for Airport Projects Statewide

WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development Appropriations Committee, announced that more than $31 million has been awarded to airports across North Dakota by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). This funding includes $13.4 million at Hector International Airport to expand the terminal by 35,245 square feet, including four new gates, and to construct a new apron. The senator has secured more than $53 million for the Hector Terminal Expansion Project to date and continues working to provide another $17 million in federal funding. The project, which is expected to be completed in 2027, will include:

A parking garage with an elevated walkway, which will open for use later this year.

An expanded Terminal with four new boarding gates and renovations for the existing five gates.

An expanded apron, supporting additional air traffic and ground operations.

Additionally, the FAA has awarded the following North Dakota airports grants that support projects to rehabilitate and reconstruct airport infrastructure—including runways, taxiways, aprons, lighting systems, safety areas, hangars, drainage systems and terminals—to enhance safety, extend the life of existing facilities, meet regulatory standards and increase airport capacity. Specifically, these grants include:

$10.3 million to rehabilitate taxiways and runways, reconstruct lighting and construct safety areas at Bismarck Municipal Airport.

$1.3 million to construct a new taxilane and rehabilitate existing runway at Cooperstown Municipal Airport to meet current standards and extend runway life.

Nearly $1.3 million to rehabilitate runways at Cavalier Municipal Airport.

$1.1 million to construct a new taxiway at Robertson Field in Langdon to meet current standards.

$818,010 to install new taxiway lighting at Harry Stern Airport in Wahpeton.

$676,540 to construct new underdrains, storm drain, and lift station to mitigate ponding at Mohall Municipal Airport.

$626,848 to reconstruct 5,506 square yards of North Apron pavement at Lakota Municipal Airport.

$335,781 to help construct a new hangar at Hutson Field in Grafton.

$300,000 to replace snow removal equipment, including carrier vehicle and attachments at Kenmare Municipal Airport.

$300,000 to construct snow removal and sand storage building at Watford City Municipal Airport.

$300,000 to reseal taxiways, apron and runway pavement at Hettinger/JB Lindquist Regional Airport.

$207,736 to reseal taxiways, taxilane, apron and runway pavement and construct a connector taxiway and hangar taxilane at Tioga Municipal Airport.

$150,126 for construction of a new hangar at Walhalla Municipal Airport.

$100,043 to reseal taxiways, taxilane, apron and runway pavement at Mercer County Regional Airport.

“These federal investments in North Dakota’s airports are vital to supporting our state’s economic growth and improving connectivity for communities across our state,” said Hoeven. “With this additional $13.4 million, we’ve now secured more than $53 million for the Hector Terminal Expansion Project. This project will modernize and increase capacity at the Fargo Airport and ensure we’re able to safely and efficiently meet the needs of travelers. Collectively, this funding will enhance safety, extend the life of critical facilities, and position our airports to meet future demand. Strong airports are essential to North Dakota’s prosperity, creating jobs, attracting new businesses, and connecting our residents to the rest of the country and the world.”
MIL OSI USA News –
July 12, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Kaptur, Doggett, & Sorensen Lead Call for Urgent Federal Action After Deadly Texas Flood

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09)

Washington, DC — Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Energy and Water Subcommittee, joined by Congressman Lloyd Doggett (TX-37) Dean of the Texas Congressional Delegation, and Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) the only meteorologist serving in Congress, today led a forceful letter to federal agencies calling for immediate action following the catastrophic flash flooding in Kerr County, Texas, that claimed over 100 lives. The letter — sent to President Donald J. Trump, NOAA leadership, and the US Army Corps of Engineers — demands an urgent review of staffing shortages, stalled forecasting improvements, and insufficient flood preparedness that contributed to the disaster.

The lawmakers point to dangerous gaps in public warning coordination and a 15% reduction in National Weather Service (NWS) staffing since January as critical failures that must be addressed before the next extreme weather event. Accurate weather forecasts are not enough. It is imperative that these warnings are adequately communicated to members of the public and in a way that prompts the appropriate lifesaving action by emergency managers, first responders, and the public at-large.

“This flood was not just a natural disaster but a failure of foresight and leadership,” said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09). “A changing climate is rewriting the rules of weather, and our federal agencies must keep pace. The American people deserve a weather warning system that does more than sound the alarm. It must be fully staffed and ready to act to ensure that everyone in harms way receives it. This letter is a demand for accountability, but more importantly, it’s a demand for lives to be protected anywhere severe weather strikes.”

“As Texans in my state are faced with much pain and uncertainty, we cannot wait to ask the hard questions,” said Congressman Lloyd Doggett (TX-37). “Effective oversight saves lives. That is why we need a full account of the ways in which the Trump administration’s recent actions have undermined the federal response, both before and after this catastrophe. Learning from these failures and recognizing that weather intensification driven by climate change increasingly endangers lives will help prevent more tragedies.”

“As someone who has reported on dangerous floods for my neighbors as a meteorologist in my local community, I know how critical it is for NWS meteorologists, local media, and emergency management coordinators to work together seamlessly and quickly to share urgent warnings,” said Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17). “The deadly toll of the flash floods that hit Texas last week beg the question of what went wrong with the warning systems in place and what more could have been done to prevent this tragedy. The Trump Administration’s cuts to NOAA and the NWS are already having a real impact on the accuracy of our nation’s weather forecasting, creating cause for major concern. That is why I am calling on President Trump, NOAA, and the Army Corps of Engineers to undertake a full-scale investigation into what went wrong and what can be done to prevent catastrophes like this in the future.”

This tragedy echoes a troubling national pattern of accelerating flash flood disasters that have claimed lives in recent years: 46 lives in the greater New York City area in September 2021, 45 lives in Kentucky in July 2022, 20 lives in Tennessee in August 2021, and 250 lives across the Southeast in September 2024. These events are not anomalies — they are harbingers of a climate-disrupted future.

Kaptur, Doggett, and Sorensen request a response within 30 days and underscore that federal weather services must not be the weak link in the nation’s climate resilience.

A full copy of the letter can be found by clicking here or reading below:

July 11, 2025

Honorable Donald J. Trump
President of the United States
The White House

1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20500

Laura Grimm
Chief of Staff, performing the duties of Undersecretary for Commerce of Oceans and Atmosphere and Administrator, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
1401 Constitution Ave NW

Washington, DC 20230

Lieutenant General William H. Graham Jr.
Commanding General and 56^th Chief of Engineers
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

441 G St NW

Washington DC, 20314

Dear Mr. President, Ms. Grimm, and General Graham:

We write with deep concern about the recent flooding in Kerr County, Texas, by both the severity of this event and the structural shortcomings at the federal, state, and local levels that contributed to the tragic loss of life. On July 4, 2025, Kerr County was struck by a flash flood of devastating impact. The Guadalupe River rose by more than 20 feet in less than two hours,^[1] engulfing homes and campsites, and leaving over a hundred dead in its wake.^[2] This tragedy echoes a troubling national pattern of accelerating flash flood disasters that have claimed lives: 46 lives in the greater New York City area in September 2021,^[3] 45 lives in Kentucky in July 2022, 20 lives in Tennessee in August 2021, and 250 lives across the Southeast in September 2024.^[4] These events are not anomalies—they are harbingers of a climate-disrupted future.

Atmospheric scientists have long warned that warmer air holds more water vapor and thus latent energy produces heavier rainfall. In 1989, the Director of NASA’s Goddard Institute for Space Studies, James Hansen, wrote presciently that “the greenhouse effect enhances both ends of the hydrologic cycle…, there is an increased frequency of extreme wet situations, as well as increased drought. Model results are shown to imply that increased greenhouse warming will lead to more intense thunderstorms, that is, deeper thunderstorms with greater rainfall.”^[5]

While the National Weather Service (NWS) forecast may have been accurate, accurate weather forecasts are not enough. It is imperative that these warnings are adequately communicated to members of the public and in a way that prompts the appropriate lifesaving action by emergency managers, first responders, and the public at-large. We are concerned that there seems to have been a breakdown at this stage starting with the first flash flood watches issued on Thursday afternoon.

Following a series of catastrophic tornadoes in the spring of 2011 that culminated in the worst tornado in a generation in Joplin, Missouri, NWS acknowledged that accurate forecasts were not enough to protect life and property, and thereby elevated the importance of properly communicating to the public about life-threatening weather events. As a result, NWS developed the Weather Ready Nation initiative to ensure that Americans knew how to appropriately respond to dangerous weather conditions when alerted by NWS or the private weather enterprise. In support of this effort, Congress codified the position of Warning Coordination Meteorologist in every weather forecast office (WFO) around the country in the 2017 Weather Act.

While staffing across NWS has long been a bipartisan concern, the staffing reductions mandated by the Department of Government Efficiency has greatly magnified the issue, with NWS losing nearly 15% of its staff nationwide since January. The forecast accuracy and timeliness during this event in Texas was a testament to the dedication of the local NWS staff who flexed their schedules to ensure adequate coverage during such a high-impact event. That is not a sustainable solution, nor is it reliable enough for the increasing incidence of dangerous weather events.

In particular, the loss of the Warning Coordination Meteorologist at the San Antonio weather forecast office (WFO) and the reduced number of forecasters put the people of Texas at risk. Lacking a full staff complement requires the team to focus only on issuing the forecasts and warnings. Outreach and coordination, a key responsibility of the Warning Coordination Meteorologist, do not occur. Also, we understand that the funding supporting travel to the community for outreach and coordination, including meeting with emergency managers and elected officials, has been suspended. Having the Warning Coordination Meteorologist position and the vacancies filled may have been critical to saving more lives by connecting with as many local community leaders as possible in the hours between the 1 a.m. NWS warning and 4 a.m. when the most dangerous conditions began impacting residents.^[6]

Given these concerns, we intend to work quickly to enact the Weather Staffing Improvement Act, which will streamline the hiring of federal weather forecasters. Meanwhile, we request that NWS expedites the backfilling of vacancies at all WFOs and the National Centers for Environmental Prediction. Further, we request that, despite proposed cuts to programs in the fiscal year 2026 budget request, no other reductions in funding or staffing occur without the explicit direction of Congress to programs that support precipitation prediction and decision support or the improvement of those services, including, but not limited to the work of the Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research.

NWS Director Ken Graham has also laid out strategic priorities to transform NWS’ staffing models and organizational effectiveness, known as “Ken’s 10”.^[7] We applaud his thoughtful proposals, though we urge NOAA to provide more detailed information for Congress to consider prior to wholesale implementation. Further, we urge that any adoption and implementation be done in a measured way so as to prevent any failures in the current system during the transition.

We ask that your agencies please provide the following information:

Staffing Cuts: Provide a breakdown of NWS staffing levels since 2017 at WFOs and the National Centers for Environmental Protection. Identify how many WFOs, and for how long each, has lacked each of the following positions over that time: Meteorologist in Charge, a Science Operations Officer, and a Warning Coordination Meteorologist? What performance impacts have resulted?
Communication Gaps: How did the absence of a Warning Coordination Meteorologist and reduced staffing affect warning distribution, communication and coordination in Kerr County and other nearby jurisdictions? What is the standard operating procedure for such a role in such critical weather events?
Precipitation Prediction: Atlas-15 will provide detailed estimates of maximum probable precipitation rates for any location in the U.S., critical information for planning for severe weather events. Please explain any reasons for the current delays in Atlas-15’s national release. Are sufficient funds available for the completion of this tool? Have any funds been redirected away from this purpose?
Status of PPGC: The Precipitation Prediction Grand Challenge (PPGC), an initiative to dramatically improve the accuracy of forecasting when, where, and how much precipitation will occur has been chronically underfunded. Please provide an update on the current efforts to date and the requirements to make significant progress over the next 5 years.
Adopting Graham’s Priorities: Which of Ken Graham’s ten transformation proposals have been implemented? Provide projected costs and timelines.
Corps Flood Control Improvements: This event also highlights the need for improvements from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) who is tasked with flood control across the country. How has the Corps updated its standard operating procedures to recognize the increased risk of extreme precipitation? What is the status of the adoption of the Forecast-Informed Reservoir Operations (FIRO) to reduce flooding risk and maximize water availability? What additional research and monitoring is necessary, and on what timeline, to incorporate FIRO into the Corps’ standard procedures?
Interagency Collaboration: What NOAA and Corps coordination mechanisms are in place to improve rural flood-warning infrastructure and emergency preparedness, including hydrology modeling and flood response planning?
Future Preparedness Plan: Describe plans to adapt federal weather services to the growing frequency of extreme precipitation events attributable to climate change.

Across America, we are entering a perilous new era of extreme precipitation. The science is clear: a warming world means heavier rains, more frequent flash floods, and rising stakes. Failure to learn from this disaster will only exacerbate future risk. Now is the moment to prioritize investments—restoring NOAA staffing and accelerating research and coordinating flood preparedness across the Federal Government. We respectfully ask for your prompt attention and response within 30 days to ensure federal weather infrastructure is not the weak link in our national resilience. We further request a quick response to the July 8, 2025 letter from Rep. Doggett, the Dean of the Texas Congressional Delegation.

Sincerely,

# # #

MIL OSI USA News –

July 12, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: SPC Jul 11, 2025 1730 UTC Day 2 Convective Outlook

Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

SPC AC 111729

Day 2 Convective Outlook
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
1229 PM CDT Fri Jul 11 2025

Valid 121200Z – 131200Z

…THERE IS A SLIGHT RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS CENTERED OVER
EASTERN LOWER MICHIGAN AND OVER SOUTHWEST TEXAS…

…SUMMARY…
Scattered damaging winds are possible across northeast Indiana,
northwest Ohio, and eastern Michigan on Saturday. Large hail and
damaging gusts are possible over much of southwest Texas into
southeast New Mexico during the afternoon and evening.

…Synopsis…
A shortwave trough will eject northeastward out of the upper MS
Valley, while a separate weaker system drifts east across the
central to southern Plains. Meanwhile, weak ridging will remain over
the Southeast, with a stronger upper high over southern CA.

At the surface, low pressure will move across Lower MI, with drying
across the upper MS Valley as winds veer. A diffuse boundary will
extend southwestward into parts of MO, KS, and OK, providing a focus
for storms.

…Great Lakes Region…
Strong heating will occur ahead of a cold front, with upper 60s F
dewpoints over IN, OH, and much of Lower MI. Little cooling aloft is
forecast with the glancing upper wave, but MLCAPE will likely exceed
2000 J/kg. Convergence within the surface trough will lead to
scattered storms along the wind shift, with a few severe gusts and
marginal hail possible. Low-level shear will be strongest over
northern Lower MI, and an isolated supercell cannot be ruled out.
Some uncertainty exist regarding overall storm coverage, as midlevel
subsidence moves in late in the day.

…OH/Mid MS Valleys to the southern Plains…
Ongoing storms with outflow may exist from parts of the South Plains
into OK Saturday morning. Any associated boundaries may provide a
focus for redevelopment during the afternoon, as 2000-3000 J/kg
MUCAPE develops. Aside from that, moist easterly low-level flow
through a deep layer will be favorable for thunderstorms across
almost all of Southwest TX, including the Big Bend area. While shear
will be weak, lightly veering winds with height along with steep
lapse rates and strong instability should lead to a few robust,
slow-moving storms with localized damaging hail and downburst
potential.

..Jewell.. 07/11/2025

CLICK TO GET WUUS02 PTSDY2 PRODUCT

NOTE: THE NEXT DAY 2 OUTLOOK IS SCHEDULED BY 0600Z

MIL OSI USA News –

July 12, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: SPC Jul 11, 2025 1630 UTC Day 1 Convective Outlook

Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

SPC AC 111631

Day 1 Convective Outlook
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
1131 AM CDT Fri Jul 11 2025

Valid 111630Z – 121200Z

…THERE IS AN ENHANCED RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS FROM FAR
NORTHEAST MO AND SOUTHEAST IA INTO NORTHWEST IL…

…THERE IS A SLIGHT RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS ACROSS THE CENTRAL
AND SOUTHERN HIGH PLAINS…

…SUMMARY…
Severe thunderstorms are expected this afternoon and evening across
the Midwest to southern portions of the Great Lakes region,
accompanied by a risk for damaging wind gusts, hail, as well as some
tornado potential. Severe thunderstorms are also expected across the
central/southern High Plains and Upper Midwest.

…Lower MO and Mid MS Valleys into Great Lakes…
Recent surface analysis places a low over far southeast NE. Residual
cloudiness and showers northeast of this low are helping to
reinforce a warm-front-like baroclinic zone that extends from low
eastward along the IA/MO border through central IL and IN. This
boundary will likely sharpen throughout the day as the cloudiness
and showers persist to its north and temperatures warm into 90s to
its south. As a result, a reservoir of strong buoyancy is
anticipated south of this boundary from southern IA into
northern/central MO and western IL.

Lift associated with the surface low, as well as its parent
convectively augmented shortwave trough, will interact with this
destabilized and buoyant airmass to support thunderstorm development
by the early afternoon. Moderate vertical shear will be in place
throughout the base of the shortwave, helping to organize some of
these storms. However, the corridor of strongest shear is relatively
narrow, with the broader environment characterized by weak mid-level
flow and limited vertical shear. As such, a somewhat messy
convection evolution appears probable.

Initial development is expected over southern IA during the early
afternoon. This activity will likely be elevated just north of the
warm front. Additional warm sector development is also possible
farther east across west-central/northwest IL. This initial
development could be more cellular, with both hail and damaging
gusts as primary risks. However, given the presence of a surface low
as well as the warm front, some tornado risk is possible with these
initially more cellular storms as well.

Convective coverage is expected to increase with overall evolution
towards a more linear mode anticipated with time. Damaging wind
gusts should become the more predominant potential hazard as this
occurs with the line moving east/southeastward this evening. Threat
for brief embedded tornadoes exists within this evolving convective
line as well.

…Central High Plains…
The immediate post-frontal regime should be favorable for severe
storm development this afternoon into evening across southeast WY
and northeast CO into adjacent southwest NE/northwest KS. Some
initial supercells capable of large hail can be expected, and one or
more eastward-moving clusters may evolve by evening with
severe-caliber winds also a possibility.

…Southern High Plains…
Moderate low-level moisture (i.e. dewpoints in the upper 50 to low
60s) is currently in place across eastern NM, which will help offset
some of the mixing anticipated as the airmass heats into the 90s
this afternoon. Thunderstorm development is anticipated across the
higher terrain of central/northern NM and the Raton Mesa, with these
storms then progressing eastward/southeastward into the moderately
moist, deeply mixed, and unstable airmass downstream across the
southern High Plains. Numerous thunderstorms are expected, with the
higher storm coverage likely facilitating cold pool amalgamation and
the development of one or more forward-propagating convective
clusters. Strong wind gusts would be possible within these clusters,
with severe coverage expected to be high enough to merit introducing
15% wind probabilities.

…Upper Midwest…
At least isolated strong to severe thunderstorms can be expected
within a narrow corridor near the east/southeastward-moving front
this afternoon from north-central MN southwestward into eastern SD,
This will be influenced by the amplifying upper-level trough
approaching the Dakotas/northern MN. The strongest winds
aloft/vertical shear will tend to lag the front, but ample
near/pre-frontal buoyancy will support storms capable of hail/wind.

..Mosier/Lyons.. 07/11/2025

CLICK TO GET WUUS01 PTSDY1 PRODUCT

NOTE: THE NEXT DAY 1 OUTLOOK IS SCHEDULED BY 2000Z

MIL OSI USA News –

July 12, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 505

Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Note: The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
SEL5

URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
Tornado Watch Number 505
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
1255 PM CDT Fri Jul 11 2025

The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

* Tornado Watch for portions of
South-Central and Southeast Iowa
Far Northwest Illinois
Far Northern Missouri

* Effective this Friday afternoon and evening from 1255 PM until
800 PM CDT.

* Primary threats include…
A few tornadoes likely
Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph likely
Scattered large hail events to 1.5 inches in diameter possible

SUMMARY…Thunderstorm development is anticipated this afternoon in
close proximity to a surface low over far southwest IA, and
associated warm front that extends eastward across southern IA into
far northwest IL. Ample low-level moisture is supporting strong
buoyancy, and the potential for robust updrafts. Supercells capable
of all severe hazards, including tornadoes, are possible within this
environment.

The tornado watch area is approximately along and 40 statute miles
north and south of a line from 45 miles west northwest of Lamoni IA
to 30 miles northeast of Moline IL. For a complete depiction of the
watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU5).

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
and possible warnings.

&&

AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
surface and aloft to 1.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
storm motion vector 24035.

…Mosier

SEL5

URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
Tornado Watch Number 505
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
1255 PM CDT Fri Jul 11 2025

The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

* Tornado Watch for portions of
South-Central and Southeast Iowa
Far Northwest Illinois
Far Northern Missouri

* Effective this Friday afternoon and evening from 1255 PM until
800 PM CDT.

* Primary threats include…
A few tornadoes likely
Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph likely
Scattered large hail events to 1.5 inches in diameter possible

SUMMARY…Thunderstorm development is anticipated this afternoon in
close proximity to a surface low over far southwest IA, and
associated warm front that extends eastward across southern IA into
far northwest IL. Ample low-level moisture is supporting strong
buoyancy, and the potential for robust updrafts. Supercells capable
of all severe hazards, including tornadoes, are possible within this
environment.

The tornado watch area is approximately along and 40 statute miles
north and south of a line from 45 miles west northwest of Lamoni IA
to 30 miles northeast of Moline IL. For a complete depiction of the
watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU5).

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
and possible warnings.

&&

AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
surface and aloft to 1.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
storm motion vector 24035.

…Mosier

Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
SAW5
WW 505 TORNADO IA IL MO 111755Z – 120100Z
AXIS..40 STATUTE MILES NORTH AND SOUTH OF LINE..
45WNW LWD/LAMONI IA/ – 30NE MLI/MOLINE IL/
..AVIATION COORDS.. 35NM N/S /50ESE OVR – 42NNW BDF/
HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..1.5 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 24035.

LAT…LON 41449473 42349009 41189009 40289473

THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
FOR WOU5.

Watch 505 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

Note: Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

Mod (60%)

Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes

Low (20%)

Wind

Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

Mod (60%)

Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

Low (20%)

Hail

Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

Mod (40%)

Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

Low (20%)

Combined Severe Hail/Wind

Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

High (90%)

For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 12, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: ICE and CBP Law Enforcement Dodge Literal Bullets from Rioters While Rescuing at Least 10 Migrant Children During Operations at Two Marijuana Grow Sites in California

Source: US Department of Homeland Security

Brave agents faced gun fire as they executed on criminal search warrants at a marijuana facility where they rescued at least 10 migrant children, arrested approximately 200 illegal aliens

WASHINGTON – The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today released the following statement after U.S. Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers faced gunfire while conducting operations at two marijuana grow sites in California. The shooter remains at-large.

On July 10, 2025, federal law enforcement officers executed criminal warrant operations at marijuana grow sites in Carpinteria and Camarillo. During the operation, at least 10 migrant children were rescued from potential exploitation, forced labor, and human trafficking. Federal officers also arrested approximately 200 illegal aliens from both sites in Carpinteria and Camarillo.

During the operation, more than 500 rioters attempted to disrupt operations. Four U.S. citizens are being criminally processed for assaulting or resisting officers. The rioters damaged vehicles and one violent agitator fired a gun at law enforcement officers. The Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) is now offering $50,000 for any information leading to the arrest of this violent rioter.

The individual was caught on video firing what looked like a pistol at federal law enforcement. Despite law enforcement’s heroic actions to rescue these children, politicians are defending rioters and attacking our men and women in uniform.

“At the California marijuana facilities, ICE and CBP law enforcement rescued at least 10 migrant children from what looks like exploitation, forced child labor, and potentially human trafficking or smuggling. Our law enforcement also arrested nearly 200 illegal aliens,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “During the operation, a violent agitator fired a gun at our brave officers. While ICE and CBP officers are being assaulted by rioters and dodging bullets to save children, Sanctuary politicians are demonizing ICE and CBP. We will prosecute to the fullest extent of the law anyone who assaults or doxes federal law enforcement.”

The investigation into immigration and potential child labor violations is ongoing. Information will be released as it becomes available.

# # #

MIL Security OSI –

July 12, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: ICE and CBP Law Enforcement Dodge Literal Bullets from Rioters While Rescuing at Least 10 Migrant Children During Operations at Two Marijuana Grow Sites in California

Source: US Department of Homeland Security

Brave agents faced gun fire as they executed on criminal search warrants at a marijuana facility where they rescued at least 10 migrant children, arrested approximately 200 illegal aliens

WASHINGTON – The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today released the following statement after U.S. Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers faced gunfire while conducting operations at two marijuana grow sites in California. The shooter remains at-large.

On July 10, 2025, federal law enforcement officers executed criminal warrant operations at marijuana grow sites in Carpinteria and Camarillo. During the operation, at least 10 migrant children were rescued from potential exploitation, forced labor, and human trafficking. Federal officers also arrested approximately 200 illegal aliens from both sites in Carpinteria and Camarillo.

During the operation, more than 500 rioters attempted to disrupt operations. Four U.S. citizens are being criminally processed for assaulting or resisting officers. The rioters damaged vehicles and one violent agitator fired a gun at law enforcement officers. The Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) is now offering $50,000 for any information leading to the arrest of this violent rioter.

The individual was caught on video firing what looked like a pistol at federal law enforcement. Despite law enforcement’s heroic actions to rescue these children, politicians are defending rioters and attacking our men and women in uniform.

“At the California marijuana facilities, ICE and CBP law enforcement rescued at least 10 migrant children from what looks like exploitation, forced child labor, and potentially human trafficking or smuggling. Our law enforcement also arrested nearly 200 illegal aliens,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “During the operation, a violent agitator fired a gun at our brave officers. While ICE and CBP officers are being assaulted by rioters and dodging bullets to save children, Sanctuary politicians are demonizing ICE and CBP. We will prosecute to the fullest extent of the law anyone who assaults or doxes federal law enforcement.”

The investigation into immigration and potential child labor violations is ongoing. Information will be released as it becomes available.

# # #

MIL Security OSI –

July 12, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: International Review: Why Russia “calmly” perceives D. Trump’s harsh rhetoric

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

Moscow, July 11 (Xinhua) — U.S. President Donald Trump said in an interview with NBC on Thursday that U.S. NATO allies would pay for American weapons that the alliance would later send to Ukraine. He also said he was “disappointed in Russia” and would make a “major statement on Russia” on Monday.

Since the beginning of this month, Russia has stepped up its attacks in Ukraine, and D. Trump has again changed his position on Russia. After another phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin in early July, D. Trump said he was “unhappy” with the lack of progress in resolving the conflict in Ukraine. Then he even publicly spoke harshly about V. Putin, noting that the Russian leader’s words “sound good, but ultimately meaningless.”

Russia took D. Trump’s change of position on Russia and his tough rhetoric very “calmly”. The press secretary of the Russian president Dmitry Peskov recalled D. Trump’s statement that the settlement of the Ukrainian conflict turned out to be much more difficult than he initially thought. “We expect to continue our dialogue with Washington and our line on repairing the badly broken bilateral relations,” D. Peskov noted.

It is worth noting that the dialogue between the US and Russia was not stopped by D. Trump’s statements.

On July 10, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. According to statements from both sides after the talks, although the US side expressed disappointment with Russia’s “insufficient flexibility” on the Ukrainian issue and expressed a desire to see a “road map” for ending the conflict in Ukraine, it also showed interest in the “new proposals” voiced by the Russian side for resolving the Ukrainian crisis. The Russian side, in turn, stated that both sides reaffirmed their shared desire for dialogue and cooperation at the meeting.

Analysts cite three reasons why Russia is “calm” about D. Trump’s change in position.

Firstly, Russia has become accustomed to the whims of the American president. According to D. Peskov, “we are quite calm about this… D. Trump, in general, has a rather tough style in the phrases he uses and so on.” According to Maria Butina, a member of the State Duma Committee on International Affairs, D. Trump’s opinion “changes five times a day.” Columnist Yevgeny Umerenkov also wrote in his article that D. Trump “should snap back at accusations of weakness.”

Secondly, Russia’s fundamental demands and strategic goals in the Ukrainian issue have not changed. Russia has always opposed further Western aid to Ukraine and strives to ensure that Ukraine no longer becomes a geopolitical threat to Russia’s security. V. Putin has repeatedly stated that Russia does not need a short-term ceasefire without sufficient guarantees, but a complete elimination of the root causes of the Ukrainian crisis.

Thirdly, Russia has always maintained strategic clarity in the regulation of Russian-American relations. During the second presidential term of D. Trump, that is, since the beginning of this year, the leaders of Russia and the United States have repeatedly held telephone conversations, and high-level negotiations between the two countries have also resumed. At the same time, the deception over NATO expansion to the East and the geopolitical pressure exerted by the West on Russia in the past few decades have already forced Russian political and strategic circles to soberly realize that the United States has never truly abandoned the policy of containing Russia.

According to the “Concept of Foreign Policy of the Russian Federation” of 2023, Russia considers the United States “the main inspirer, organizer and executor of the aggressive anti-Russian policy of the collective West, the source of the main risks to the security of the Russian Federation, international peace, balanced, fair and progressive development of mankind.” In order to facilitate the adaptation of the world order to the realities of a multipolar world, Russia intends to prioritize “eliminating the vestiges of dominance of the United States and other unfriendly states in world affairs, creating conditions for any state to abandon neocolonial and hegemonic ambitions.” –0–

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

.

MIL OSI Russia News –

July 12, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Warner & Kaine Announce over $15.5 Million in Federal Funding for Virginia Airports
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) announced $15,553,713 in federal funding to support infrastructure improvements at six airports across Virginia. This funding comes through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration Airport Infrastructure Grant program, made possible by the bipartisan infrastructure law.

“Investing in our airports is a crucial component of strengthening Virginia’s economy and keeping travelers safe,” the senators said. “We’re proud to support this funding and will keep working to foster growth and convenient transportation in the Commonwealth.”

The funding is broken down as follows:
- $11,499,942 to the Capital Region Airport Commission to reconstruct the existing 15,000-square-foot aircraft rescue and firefighting building Richmond International Airport;
- $1,216,000 to the Emporia-Greensville Airport Commission to rehabilitate 2,650 feet of taxiway, construct 1,550 feet of new taxiway, and rehabilitate 9,000 square yards of existing apron at Emporia-Greensville Regional Airport;
- $1,035,500 to the Town of Leesburg to reconstruct 5,500 feet of existing pavement parallel to a taxiway that has reached the end of its useful life at Leesburg Executive Airport;
- $1,019,868 to the City of Manassas to rehabilitate 6,200 feet of runway at Manassas Regional Airport;
- $748,488 to the Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport Commission to acquire 14 acres of land and an easement for 80 acres to protect runway approaches at Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport;
- $33,915 to the Cumberlands Airport Commission to remove trees identified as obstructions by the Federal Aviation Administration at Lonesome Pine Airport.
Warner and Kaine have long supported efforts to improve Virginia’s airports and have secured millions in federal funding for airports across Virginia through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This week the senators have already announced over $21 million in funding for Virginia airports, building on the over $5 million announced earlier this month and the more than $12 million announced in January. In October 2024, they announced nearly $57 million in federal funding for revitalization efforts, and in September 2024 they announced more than $46 million in federal funding for improvements to Virginia airports through the Airport Improvement Program. The senators have previously announced $104.6 million in combined federal funding for the new terminal building at Washington Dulles International Airport.

Sens. Warner and Kaine have long supported efforts to improve Virginia’s airports. Sens. Warner and Kaine have secured millions in federal funding for airports across Virginia through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This week the senators have already announced over $21 million in funding for Virginia airports, building on the $5 million in federal funding announced earlier this month and the $12 million for improvements to Virginia’s airports announced in January of this year. In October 2024, they announced nearly $57 million in federal funding for revitalizations efforts, and in September 2024, they announced more than $46 million in federal funding for improvements to Virginia airports through the Airport Improvement Program. The senators have previously announced $104.6 million in combined federal funding for the new terminal building at Dulles.
MIL OSI USA News –
July 12, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Capito Highlights WV’s Impact to NOAA Operations, Weather Warning System Improvement

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito

[embedded content]

Click here or on the image above to watch Senator Capito’s questions.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — This week, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, participated in a nominations hearing for Dr. Neil Jacobs to be Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere, Taylor Jordan to be an Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Environmental Observation and Prediction, and Harry Kumar to be an Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs.

Senator Capito’s questions focused on West Virginia’s contributions to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) operations, as well as nominees’ plans to improve weather warning systems for communities across the country.

HIGHLIGHTS:

ON NOAA’S ENVIRONMENTAL SECURITY COMPUTING CENTER IN FAIRMONT, WEST VIRGINIA:

SENATOR CAPITO: “The I-79 tech park in Fairmont is a unique asset for NOAA and the broader adoption of AI. The park houses the supercomputing operation with the high-performance computers named Hera and Raya…what is your institutionalization of AI at NOAA and how would you use these assets that I’ve referenced?”

ON IMPROVING WEATHER WARNING SYSTEMS:

SENATOR CAPITO: “I’d like to pivot to the storms in Texas and weather predicting. Obviously, I live in an area that is prone to rapid flooding like that, but the tragedy we see in Texas is like nothing I’ve seen. It’s unimaginable for many of us. Community engagement, community warning systems, how can that be improved?”

DR. JACOBS: “Even if you have a perfect forecast, if you can’t get the information to the people, it’s totally useless. So having a way to distribute the watches and warnings, and particularly in regions that don’t have good cell coverage, I think there’s an opportunity to modernize NOAA Weather Radio…Probably an all-of-the-above approach and modernizing these watches and warnings is something that’s going to be a top priority.”

MIL OSI USA News –

July 12, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Murphy Demands Answers From DHS Secretary Kristi Noem on Trump Administration Efforts to Dismantle FEMA

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

July 11, 2025

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), ranking member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security, on Thursday demanded answers from U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem on the Trump administration’s efforts to dismantle the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), which is responsible for protecting Americans before, during, and in the aftermath of natural disasters. Murphy’s letter comes in the wake of President Trump’s threats to illegally phase out FEMA and public reporting that Noem’s pick to lead the agency, David Richardson, has been a “no-show” in responding to the devastating floods in Texas that, to date, have killed more than 120 people.

“The steady stream of misinformation you and others within the Administration have repeatedly regurgitated regarding FEMA’s past efficacy has made it clear that you and President Trump are hellbent on bringing the agency’s mission to a grinding halt. For nearly four decades, FEMA has been singularly focused on helping people before, during, and after disasters. But under your leadership, it has become an ineffectual and inefficient shell of its former self as the country reels from the tragic fatal flooding in Texas and is in the thick of a hurricane season that is predicted to have an above-normal number of storms,” Murphy wrote.

Murphy rebuked the Administration’s notion that states could effectively administer disaster response without federal coordination: “The Administration has also not communicated a realistic plan for how FEMA’s important work can continue should the agency be eliminated, instead simply repeating a well-worn and naive mantra that “the states will do it.” Such capacity does not and won’t exist. Even if the states, territories, and tribes could create their own “mini-FEMAs” to continue this work, taxpayers would lose all economies of scale gained at the federal level, instead placing the funding burden on each individual state, territory, and tribe.”

He demanded to know why DHS has canceled or delayed more than $100 billion in grant payments: “Many of these payments are simple reimbursements for costs already incurred, such as public assistance funding to pay for debris removal and emergency protective measures following a disaster. Funding for other programs has also been halted, including counterterrorism, salaries and equipment for firefighters, flood mitigation and more. Inconceivably, your department also attempted to stop and then actively delayed funding for state and local emergency management agencies – the very agencies that would be tasked with responding to disasters if you are successful in shuttering FEMA.”

Murphy also called out Noem’s bullying and harassment of FEMA’s dedicated staff: “It is no easy task to pry disaster workers from their work, but you’ve certainly tried through constant rhetoric, threats, unlawful polygraphs, slander, libel, and general demonizing of their agency and their work. It’s an affront to human decency, both for the dedicated FEMA employees themselves and for the disaster victims they support. And to what end? What strategy or vision do these actions serve? What is the benefit to the American people, whom you—like myself, like the President—serve? It’s clear that the only strategy is to remove the relevant knowledge and experience from FEMA in an effort to dismantle it from the inside out.”

Murphy concluded: “I fear your department is making conscious decisions to increase the risk to—and make life worse for—the American people. As a result, the agency is in the midst of hurricane season with fewer resources and a less experienced staff, which will have life and death impacts on the American people. I look forward to your swift answers to our questions, and to working with you to ensure that negligence in FEMA’s management does not cost American lives and livelihoods.”

Full text of the letter is available HERE.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 12, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Senator Peters Secures Funding for Michigan Priorities in Agriculture Appropriations Bill

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) helped the Senate Appropriations Committee pass the Fiscal Year 2026 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. This bipartisan legislation would fund critical federal agencies and programs that support rural communities, food safety, and America’s robust agricultural economy. The bill also supports Michigan’s agriculture priorities as well as high-impact local projects across Michigan. The bill now advances to the full Senate.

“This bill makes investments that matter to Michigan, like strengthening local emergency response efforts, supporting our robust agricultural economy, and improving access to affordable food,” said Senator Peters. “It also delivers resources for food safety initiatives that will help keep all Americans healthy. I’ll keep advocating for these key priorities as this bill moves to the full Senate.”

Meanwhile, the House of Representatives is considering their own funding bills. The Senate and House will then need to reach an agreement on a final funding bill and have it pass both chambers before being sent to the President to be signed into law.

The bill includes numerous measures led and supported by Peters, including:

Funding to Support Communities in Michigan:

New Fire Truck for City of Alpena: Peters secured $1,105,000 in the bill for the City of Alpena to replace an essential aerial ladder fire truck to help ensure safe and efficient operations.

Improving Public Safety in Bad Axe: The bill includes $850,000 to support the construction of a new public safety building for the City of Bad Axe. The project would help ensure that first responders have the resources they need to efficiently and effectively respond to emergencies.

New Fire Engine for the City of Berkley: The bill would provide $385,000 to replace the City of Berkley’s primary front-line fire engine responsible for responding to fire and vehicle extraction emergencies.

Upgrading Emergency Communications Infrastructure in Big Creek Township: Peters secured $74,000 for the Big Creek Township Fire Department to upgrade its radio system. The new system will ensure department staff can efficiently and effectively communicate when responding to emergencies.

New Fire Truck for City of Big Rapids: The bill includes $378,000 for the City of Big Rapids to purchase a new fire truck, which will improve community safety and be used to better protect both people and property.

New Aerial Ladder Truck for Escanaba: The bill would provide $700,000 for the Escanaba Public Safety Department to replace an aerial ladder fire truck essential to providing safe and efficient emergency and fire services for the community.

Training First Responders in Grand Traverse County: Peters secured $80,000 in the bill to support the construction of a new training facility for the Northwest Regional Fire Training Center Authority. The facility would support education and training needs for fire, EMS, local and state law enforcement, and maritime professionals.

Improving Wildfire Response in Montcalm: The bill would provide $245,000 for the Lakeview District Fire Department in Montcalm to purchase equipment needed to adequately protect the community and property from growing threats of wildfires.

Expanding Access to Child Care in Stanton: Peters secured $225,000 to expand the Central Montcalm Public School’s Early Childhood Center to provide more childcare and educational services for the community.

New Plow Truck for Village of Ontonagon: The bill includes $169,000 for the Village of Ontonagon to purchase a new plow truck, which will help keep streets and alleyways clear of snow and ice for the safety of both residents and visitors to the nearby Porcupine Mountains State Park.

New Fire Engine for the City of Rockwood: The bill would provide $765,000 for the City of Rockwood to purchase a new fire engine to help strengthen its fire response for the community.

Improving Library Access in Caro: The bill includes $200,000 secured by Peters, which will be used to modernize a 46-year-old elevator currently in use at the Caro Area District Library.

Supporting Farmers & Michigan’s Agricultural Sector:

Funding for Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS): This bill includes funding for APHIS, which helps farmers combat specialty crop pests. This funding would support Peters’ Spotted Wing Abatement Trust (SWAT) Act, legislation that aims to reduce the spread of, and advance research on, the spotted wing drosophila (SWD). SWD an invasive insect that harms fruit growers and their crops in Michigan and across the country.

Research to Advance Technology in Agriculture: Peters supported a provision in the bill to provide funding for the Agricultural Research Service Crop Production Program, which would allow researchers to identify and develop new methods for increasing crop production sustainably using emerging technologies. These methods include satellites, geospatial systems, and artificial intelligence.

Promoting Urban Farming and Indoor Agriculture Sector: The bill includes funding for the Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production Program, which seeks to promote urban, indoor, and other innovative agricultural practices that have been adopted for use in both urban and rural areas to bolster local food systems and extend short growing seasons.

Boosting Agricultural Research: The bill includes funding for the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), which provides funding for key research projects that can contribute to substantial breakthroughs in food, agriculture, natural resources, and human sciences. Investments from NIFA help ensure that farmers, ranchers, and foresters have access to fair and competitive markets, while supporting resilient growing practices that produce nutritious and affordable foods for American families.

Strengthen Public Health & Expand Nutrition Assistance:

Funding to Protect Domestic Violence Survivors and Their Pets: Peters secured $3 million in funding for the Emergency and Transitional Pet Shelter and Housing Assistance Grant Program, which provides funding to facilities who harbor survivors of domestic violence, along with their pets, as well as animal shelters that partner with domestic violence service providers. This program was established by Peters’ PAWS Act, which was signed into law in 2018.

Funding to Improve Food Safety: The bill includes funding for the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Human Foods Program, which aims to ensure the food we consume is safe and nutritious, including baby food and infant formula. The bill’s report language will begin the work to support FDA’s oversight of baby formula production and update food labeling and consumer guidance. This language was inspired by Peters’ Protect Infant Formula from Contamination Act, which would strengthen FDA’s oversight of infant formula manufacturing and improve the security of our nation’s infant formula supply, ensuring American families have access to safe, affordable formula.

Language Requiring the FDA to Develop Monitoring Guidelines for Human Cell and Tissue Products (HCT/P): The bill includes language Peters secured that would require the FDA to examine the feasibility of implementing tissue-tracking protocols for HCT/Ps, similar to those required for solid organs and blood products. The bill also requests that the FDA works with other federal agencies to develop routine post HCT/P implant monitoring guidelines similar to current practices for all tissue allograft recipients. This provision builds on Senator Peters’ previous efforts to prevent tuberculosis contaminations in HCT/Ps, including introduction last Congress of the Shandra Eisenga Human Cell and Tissue Products Safety Act, which would establish an education campaign to prevent tuberculosis (TB) outbreaks from infected HCTP donations.

Supporting Nutrition Assistance: The bill funds critical programs that help meet the nutrition needs of American families across the country. The bill funds the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), which provides nutrition assistance to millions of women and children nationwide and includes funding to support fruit and vegetable benefits.

The bill also funds the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) which assists millions of Americans every month. Additionally, the bill funds vital nutrition programs aimed at supporting children in school, such as the federal school lunch and breakfast programs, and the Summer EBT program. The funding provided by this bill will support approximately 5 billion lunches and 2.7 billion breakfasts to children across the country.

Improving Food Safety: The bill provides funding for the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), a vital agency that helps protect the safety and resiliency of America’s food supply.

Improving Transparency in FDA Oversight: Peters secured language in the bill that would prevent the FDA from using funds for activities that are non-compliant with the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA), which governs the establishment, operation, and termination of advisory committees within the executive branch of the federal government. FACA’s main purpose is to ensure transparency and improve public access to the guidance provided by these committees.

Improving Public Infrastructure:

Strengthening Dam Infrastructure: The bill includes $1 million for the Natural Resources Conservation Service’s Watershed Rehabilitation Program. This program provides technical and financial assistance to communities seeking to extend the service life of aging dam infrastructure and bring dams into compliance with current safety and performance standards.

Rental Assistance in Rural Communities: The bill provides funding for rental assistance for Americans living in rural areas to help expand access to safe and affordable housing options.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 12, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Kaptur, Doggett, & Sorenson Lead Call for Urgent Federal Action After Deadly Texas Flood

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09)

Washington, DC — Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), joined by Congressman Lloyd Doggett (TX-37) and Congressman Eric Sorenson (IL-17), today led a forceful letter to federal agencies calling for immediate action following the catastrophic flash flooding in Kerr County, Texas, that claimed over 100 lives. The letter — sent to President Donald J. Trump, NOAA leadership, and the US Army Corps of Engineers — demands an urgent review of staffing shortages, stalled forecasting improvements, and insufficient flood preparedness that contributed to the disaster.

Kaptur, Doggett, and Sorenson request a response within 30 days and underscore that federal weather services must not be the weak link in the nation’s climate resilience.

A full copy of the letter can be found by clicking here or reading below:

July 11, 2025

Honorable Donald J. Trump
President of the United States
The White House

1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20500

Laura Grimm
Chief of Staff, performing the duties of Undersecretary for Commerce of Oceans and Atmosphere and Administrator, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
1401 Constitution Ave NW

Washington, DC 20230

Lieutenant General William H. Graham Jr.
Commanding General and 56^th Chief of Engineers
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

441 G St NW

Washington DC, 20314

Dear Mr. President, Ms. Grimm, and General Graham:

We ask that your agencies please provide the following information:

Staffing Cuts: Provide a breakdown of NWS staffing levels since 2017 at WFOs and the National Centers for Environmental Protection. Identify how many WFOs, and for how long each, has lacked each of the following positions over that time: Meteorologist in Charge, a Science Operations Officer, and a Warning Coordination Meteorologist? What performance impacts have resulted?
Communication Gaps: How did the absence of a Warning Coordination Meteorologist and reduced staffing affect warning distribution, communication and coordination in Kerr County and other nearby jurisdictions? What is the standard operating procedure for such a role in such critical weather events?
Precipitation Prediction: Atlas-15 will provide detailed estimates of maximum probable precipitation rates for any location in the U.S., critical information for planning for severe weather events. Please explain any reasons for the current delays in Atlas-15’s national release. Are sufficient funds available for the completion of this tool? Have any funds been redirected away from this purpose?
Status of PPGC: The Precipitation Prediction Grand Challenge (PPGC), an initiative to dramatically improve the accuracy of forecasting when, where, and how much precipitation will occur has been chronically underfunded. Please provide an update on the current efforts to date and the requirements to make significant progress over the next 5 years.
Adopting Graham’s Priorities: Which of Ken Graham’s ten transformation proposals have been implemented? Provide projected costs and timelines.
Corps Flood Control Improvements: This event also highlights the need for improvements from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) who is tasked with flood control across the country. How has the Corps updated its standard operating procedures to recognize the increased risk of extreme precipitation? What is the status of the adoption of the Forecast-Informed Reservoir Operations (FIRO) to reduce flooding risk and maximize water availability? What additional research and monitoring is necessary, and on what timeline, to incorporate FIRO into the Corps’ standard procedures?
Interagency Collaboration: What NOAA and Corps coordination mechanisms are in place to improve rural flood-warning infrastructure and emergency preparedness, including hydrology modeling and flood response planning?
Future Preparedness Plan: Describe plans to adapt federal weather services to the growing frequency of extreme precipitation events attributable to climate change.

Sincerely,

# # #

MIL OSI USA News –

July 12, 2025

MIL-OSI Analysis: Pallets are the backbone of global trade but supplies are threatened by theft, loss – and giant bonfires

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Liz Breen, Professor of Health Service Operations, School of Pharmacy & Medical Sciences, University of Bradford

Craigyhill bonfire was declared the world’s tallest at a height of 203 feet (63 metres) in 2022. Thousands of pallets were used to build it. Stephen Barnes/Shutterstock

Pallets don’t usually make headlines. But amid fresh controversy around the traditional July bonfires held in Northern Ireland this year, they’ve suddenly become a talking point. Wooden pallets used in these bonfires are popular due to their stacking ability, and also their colours – which include the red, white and blue of Britain.

Ordinarily, pallets are used to transport products from manufacturers to retailers. But their numbers are shrinking due to theft and loss – and of course, they cost money to buy, store, use and replace. A study by one of us (Liz) in 2006 quoted a logistics firm that estimated 14 million pallets were generally missing throughout Europe, costing £140 million. And it’s an ongoing problem: millions of products such as pallets and packaging containers are still stolen each year across the continent.

Just one bonfire in Larne, County Antrim, in July 2021 reportedly used 17,000 pallets in its construction. This year, police are investigating where the pallets used in the same community’s bonfire originated from. Amid speculation that some may belong to Australia-based supply chain firm Chep, that company has stated its pallets can never legally be bought, sold or destroyed.

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Pallet losses can lead to logistical disruptions, delayed orders and bare shelves in supermarkets. And the impact is felt by pallet owners, manufacturers, customers and end-users alike.

Pallets are big business. In the US, around 513 million – mainly wooden, some plastic – are produced each year. In 2021, 48.6 million wooden pallets were produced in the UK, up 8.3% from 2020.

Rental companies can hold high numbers of pallets, which support the movement of “fast-moving” customer goods – including food, drinks and toiletries. North American firm Peco, for example, manages stock of over 20 million distinctive red wooden pallets across its 90 depots.

Manufacturers rely on pallets being available to fulfil orders and distribute them to customers quickly. Also known as “returnable transit packaging”, they are valuable assets as they can be maintained and reused. They are usually owned by a pallet pooling agent, which must absorb the loss when they are not returned from customers.

Why steal pallets?

Good-condition pallets have a resale value. Both wood and plastic pallets can be deconstructed and sold as components to other industries. Some people even use them to create furniture for homes and gardens.

Customers may feel these are legitimate upcycled products and won’t think to check where the pallets came from. However, some do have distinctive identification stamps that may remain in upcycled pallet products.

The organised theft of these products takes its toll on companies. Cargo crime (which includes consumer goods and transportation pallets and containers) is said to cost the UK economy £700 million each year.

If pallets are not available, production lines may be slowed down or stopped. And it may take longer to produce items, potentially leading to unnecessary transportation as well as greater fuel consumption and emissions.

But it can also be challenging to map pallet movements and know, at any given time, how many are in transit, with retailers, or lost. Digital tracking solutions such as radio frequency identification can be expensive to implement and are not foolproof. This can make it easy for pallets to go “missing in action”.

Pallets are a staple mechanism for stock to be received into retailers’ warehouses and distribution centres. Both the size of the pallets and their ownership can be colour-coded – at least some of the blue pallets making headlines this summer in Larne’s red, white and blue tower are thought to be owned by Chep. Warehouse bays are designed with specific pallets in mind – so changes to the pallets can bring extra costs.

Similarly, replacing lost or stolen pallets comes at a price – which could ultimately be felt by consumers if these costs are passed on by retailers.

Reducing theft and loss

Pallet owners cannot afford to continue losing them to theft. Firms that are found using non-compliant or untracked pallets because they have bought them from unauthorised sources can face shipment fines, while other initiatives, such as deposit or voucher schemes or one-for-one exchange plans, could incentivise the return of pallets.

These practices may influence corporate return behaviour, but the theft of pallets by organised crime gangs is increasing. Changing the materials used to construct pallets could reduce their financial attractiveness and resale value.

At first glance, a used pallet might look no more useful than discarded wood and be considered fair game for reuse or selling on. But businesses or individuals who collect, sell or purchase stolen pallets are putting themselves at legal risk. Firms found stockpiling or selling-on pallets without permission have faced legal action and even jail in Europe.

Aside from the legal implications, there are other operational and environmental costs. Each pallet taken out of circulation must be replaced, increasing demand for virgin timber, straining forest resources, and increasing labour costs.

The humble pallet is the backbone of global trading, and businesses rely on a steady and dependable supply. Pallet services function only if they continue to circulate – but theft and losses undermine this. Without this simple product, everyone from producers to retailers and consumers could end up paying more for the goods they take for granted.

The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

– ref. Pallets are the backbone of global trade but supplies are threatened by theft, loss – and giant bonfires – https://theconversation.com/pallets-are-the-backbone-of-global-trade-but-supplies-are-threatened-by-theft-loss-and-giant-bonfires-260948

MIL OSI Analysis –

July 12, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Senate passes Kennedy, Cortez Masto bill to help Louisianians recover from natural disasters

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Senate passed Sens. John Kennedy (R-La.) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.)’s bipartisan Filing Relief for Natural Disasters Act, which would provide relief for taxpayers in states that have issued state-level disaster declarations. The bill now moves to the president’s desk for signing.
“When states like Louisiana are reeling from a hurricane, they can’t always wait around for Washington to act. I’m grateful to my colleagues for voting to pass the Filing Relief for Natural Disasters Act to make sure hard-hit communities can get important tax extensions without unnecessary delays,” said Kennedy.
“A natural disaster is devastating for anyone. Impacted taxpayers should not have to worry about whether their state’s natural disaster has been recognized by the President for them to receive the support they deserve. This bipartisan legislation will ensure that anyone impacted by state-level emergencies can have some peace of mind when filling their taxes,” said Cortez Masto.
Currently, the Internal Revenue Service has the authority to postpone tax filing deadlines following a presidentially declared federal disaster but not following a state-level emergency declaration.
The Filing Relief for Natural Disasters Act would allow the governor of a state or territory to extend a federal tax filing deadline following a state-declared emergency or natural disaster without waiting for a federal disaster declaration. This would allow states to provide federal tax extensions independent of the federal government’s involvement in an emergency or natural disaster.
The bill would also expand the mandatory federal filing extension from 60 days to 120 days.
Sens. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) and Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) also cosponsored the bill.
The full bill text is available here.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 12, 2025
Delhi CM Rekha Gupta distributes Rs 5 lakh each to 24 fire-hit Dilli Haat artisans

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Friday distributed cheques of Rs 5 lakh each to 24 artisans whose stalls were damaged in a fire that broke out at Dilli Haat in April.

On the evening of April 30, a devastating fire broke out at Dilli Haat, INA, completely destroying 24 artisan stalls. Following the incident, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced an ex gratia relief of Rs 5 lakh for each affected artisan.

A total amount of Rs 1.20 crore was distributed to 24 artisans who were engaged in displaying handicrafts, jewellery, carpets, woodwork, textiles, and other traditional crafts.

“The newly elected government, blessed by the people of Delhi, stands firmly with the victims. Cheques of Rs 5 lakh each have been distributed to all affected artisans, and six months’ rent for their shops has been waived,” Gupta said.

The Delhi CM assured that the process of justice will no longer face delays and that every rightful claim will be settled on time.

Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra, who was present during the cheque distribution ceremony, said the government is committed to protecting the interests of artisans and extending all necessary support to them. He added that the Delhi government stands with them, and through this ex gratia relief, aims to help them regain their footing.

“Our arts and crafts are the soul of our cultural heritage. Preserving them and supporting their custodians is our collective responsibility,” he said.

— IANS

July 12, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: AG Brown blocks returns and sales of machine-gun conversion devices in

Source: Washington State News

SEATTLE — The Trump administration has committed in court filings to carving out Washington and other states from its illegal plans to distribute thousands of machine-gun conversion devices nationwide following a lawsuit from Attorney General Nick Brown and 15 other states’ attorneys general.

In submissions made in the multistate litigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) has expressly confirmed to a judge that it will not return forced reset triggers in the plaintiff states. In addition, Rare Breed Triggers, the country’s largest purveyor of forced reset triggers, has confirmed in its court filings that it will not sell any of these devices in the plaintiff states. As a result, the coalition is withdrawing its motion for a preliminary injunction.

“It is unfortunate that litigation was necessary when the federal government could have made these commitments much earlier,” Brown said. “But I will do everything possible to keep Washingtonians safe from dangerous machine-gun conversion devices.”

In recent years, machine-gun conversion devices like forced reset triggers, which dramatically increase a firearm’s rate of fire, have been frequently used in violent crimes and mass shootings, worsening the gun violence epidemic in the United States. Firearms equipped with these devices are able to exceed the rate of fire of many military machine guns, firing up to 20 bullets in one second. ATF has noted a significant rise in the use of these devices, leading to increasing incidents of machine-gun fire — up 1,400% from 2019 through 2021.

In addition to Washington, the other plaintiffs are Delaware, Maryland, Colorado, Hawai’i, Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, and the District of Columbia.

The case, which remains active, was filed June 9. Read more about the lawsuit here.

-30-

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

Media Contact:

Email: press@atg.wa.gov

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General contacts: Click here

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MIL OSI USA News –

July 12, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: S. 1523, Water Research Optimization Act of 2025

Source: US Congressional Budget Office

S. 1523 would reauthorize and expand the operations of the National Water Center (NWC) administered by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Specifically, the bill would:

Require the NWC to coordinate water research and weather forecasting activities with other federal entities;
Require NOAA to use a supercomputing system to improve weather and climate forecasting; and,
Require NOAA to supervise operations of each river forecast center, which are regional offices that provide river level and flood forecasts, in coordination with the NWC.

The bill would authorize the appropriation of $46 million annually from 2025 through 2028 for those purposes.

Based on historical spending patterns, CBO estimates that implementing the bill would cost $170 million over the 2025-2030 period and $9 million after 2030, assuming appropriation of the authorized amounts.

The costs of the legislation, detailed in Table 1, fall within budget function 300 (natural resources and environment).

Table 1. Estimated Increases in Spending Subject to Appropriation Under S. 1523
	By Fiscal Year, Millions of Dollars
	2025	2026	2027	2028	2029	2030	2025-2030
Authorization	46	46	46	46	0	0	184
Estimated Outlays	3	38	37	44	31	17	170

The CBO staff contact for this estimate is Kelly Durand. The estimate was reviewed by H. Samuel Papenfuss, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

Phillip L. Swagel

Director, Congressional Budget Office

MIL OSI USA News –

July 12, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: S. 1523, Water Research Optimization Act of 2025

Source: US Congressional Budget Office

S. 1523 would reauthorize and expand the operations of the National Water Center (NWC) administered by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Specifically, the bill would:

Require the NWC to coordinate water research and weather forecasting activities with other federal entities;
Require NOAA to use a supercomputing system to improve weather and climate forecasting; and,
Require NOAA to supervise operations of each river forecast center, which are regional offices that provide river level and flood forecasts, in coordination with the NWC.

The bill would authorize the appropriation of $46 million annually from 2025 through 2028 for those purposes.

The costs of the legislation, detailed in Table 1, fall within budget function 300 (natural resources and environment).

Table 1. Estimated Increases in Spending Subject to Appropriation Under S. 1523
	By Fiscal Year, Millions of Dollars
	2025	2026	2027	2028	2029	2030	2025-2030
Authorization	46	46	46	46	0	0	184
Estimated Outlays	3	38	37	44	31	17	170

The CBO staff contact for this estimate is Kelly Durand. The estimate was reviewed by H. Samuel Papenfuss, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

Phillip L. Swagel

Director, Congressional Budget Office

MIL OSI USA News –

July 12, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: S. 1523, Water Research Optimization Act of 2025

Source: US Congressional Budget Office

S. 1523 would reauthorize and expand the operations of the National Water Center (NWC) administered by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Specifically, the bill would:

Require the NWC to coordinate water research and weather forecasting activities with other federal entities;
Require NOAA to use a supercomputing system to improve weather and climate forecasting; and,
Require NOAA to supervise operations of each river forecast center, which are regional offices that provide river level and flood forecasts, in coordination with the NWC.

The bill would authorize the appropriation of $46 million annually from 2025 through 2028 for those purposes.

The costs of the legislation, detailed in Table 1, fall within budget function 300 (natural resources and environment).

Table 1. Estimated Increases in Spending Subject to Appropriation Under S. 1523
	By Fiscal Year, Millions of Dollars
	2025	2026	2027	2028	2029	2030	2025-2030
Authorization	46	46	46	46	0	0	184
Estimated Outlays	3	38	37	44	31	17	170

The CBO staff contact for this estimate is Kelly Durand. The estimate was reviewed by H. Samuel Papenfuss, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

Phillip L. Swagel

Director, Congressional Budget Office

MIL OSI USA News –

July 12, 2025

MIL-OSI Canada: Canadian Armed Forces set to participate in Australia’s largest military exercise

Source: Government of Canada News

July 11, 2025 – Ottawa, ON – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces

The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) is deploying approximately 600 personnel to participate in the largest-ever iteration of Exercise TALISMAN SABRE 25 (Ex TS25) from July 13 to August 4, 2025. This exercise will take place in and around Australia and for the first time, in Papua New Guinea.

Hosted biennially by Australia, Exercise TALISMAN SABRE brings together over 30,000 military personnel from 19 nations for advanced multinational training. This year’s iteration will feature large-scale warfighting exercises, including firepower demonstrations, tactical sustainment rehearsals, and joint operations across land, air, sea, space, and cyber domains.

Ex TS25 marks Canada’s largest single deployment of military personnel to the Indo-Pacific region since the launch of Operation HORIZON. It will also be the first major exercise to involve a broad spectrum of Canadian Armed Forces capabilities deployed together, drawing on personnel and assets from the Royal Canadian Navy, Canadian Army, Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), Canadian Forces Cyber Command (CAFCYBERCOM), 3 Canadian Space Division (3 CSD), and Canadian Special Operations Forces Command (CANSOFCOM).

The CAF’s contribution includes His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Ville de Québec, which will conduct live-fire naval exercises, and RCAF assets providing both strategic and tactical airlift. Together, these forces will demonstrate the CAF’s readiness to conduct integrated and expeditionary operations alongside key partners.

Participation in Ex TS25 strengthens Canada’s defence cooperation with the Australian Defence Force and advances the priorities set out in the Joint Statement on Strengthening the Canada–Australia Defence Relationship. This deployment sends a clear signal: Canada is deepening its commitment to collective security and regional stability in the Indo-Pacific.

As global threats evolve, Canada will continue stepping up by investing in strong partnerships and demonstrating its capacity to contribute meaningfully to peace and security around the world.

MIL OSI Canada News –

July 12, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Pair Sentenced for Two St. Louis Carjackings

Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

ST. LOUIS – A man and a woman who committed two armed carjackings in St. Louis, Missouri in 2022 have been sentenced to more than 11 years in prison.

U.S. District Judge John A. Ross on Thursday sentenced Jermanine Smith, 51, of St. Louis, to 141 months in prison. Judge Ross sentenced Bianka North, 29, of Illinois, to 154 months in prison on June 20.

Smith pleaded guilty on March 20, 2025, to one count of carjacking and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. North pleaded guilty 10 days earlier to two counts of carjacking and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. Both admitted stealing a 2006 Pontiac G6 on May 14, 2022, and a 2009 Toyota Scion the next day.

The first victim was sitting in her G6 in North Riverfront Park in St. Louis when Smith and North pulled up in a Dodge Charger. A short time later, Smith approached the victims and asked for their help jump-starting the Charger. When the G6 driver and her friend got out of their car, North pointed a silver handgun at them and ordered them to move away. North then stole that car and drove away, followed by Smith in the Charger.

On May 15, 2022, North was driving the carjacked G6 and parked near a Scion XD in the 1600 block of South 9th Street in St. Louis just after midnight. North opened the door of the Scion and ordered the driver out at gunpoint before driving away. North also ordered the victim to leave her mobile phone in the car. After the carjacking, someone tried to use Cash App on the victim’s phone to transfer $300 to Smith.

The case was investigated by the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Szczucinski prosecuted the case.

MIL Security OSI –

July 12, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: TALLAHASSEE MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO DRUG TRAFFICKING AND ILLEGAL FIREARMS POSSESSION

Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Jason Rigdon, 44, of Crawfordville, Florida, pleaded guilty July 9, 2025, to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and possession of multiple firearms by a convicted felon. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “I applaud the excellent work of our federal, state, and local partners to make our community safer by getting this dangerous individual off the streets. My office remains fully committed to fulfilling the promise made by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi to Take Back America by targeting violent criminals with the full force of the law.”

Court documents reflect that pursuant to a federal search warrant of Rigdon’s Crawfordville residence, methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and thirteen firearms were seized. Rigdon was previously convicted of multiple State of Florida felony charges including drug trafficking, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, fleeing and eluding law enforcement, and illegal possession of firearms. At the time of arrest, a privately made firearm, commonly known as a “ghost gun,” was also seized.

Rigdon is scheduled for sentencing before United States District Judge Robert L. Hinkle on September 25, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in Tallahassee, Florida. Rigdon faces up to thirty years’ imprisonment on the drug charge, and up to fifteen years’ imprisonment on the firearms charge.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Leon County Sheriff’s Office, Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office, and the Tallahassee Police Department investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Eric K. Mountin is prosecuting the case.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline ) 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 (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

MIL Security OSI –

July 12, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Increasing natural flood and drought protections
The new funding includes $3.5 million for 20 new projects to help restore and protect watersheds across the province. The new funding will help make Alberta more flood and drought resistant.

Healthy and resilient watersheds help prevent floods during storms, release water during droughts, and help Alberta’s growing communities and environment thrive. They carry water through rivers, lakes and streams, helping to sustain ecosystems.

This funding will help one city, two counties and 17 non-profits restore riverbanks and watersheds, stabilize streambanks, and improve the natural movement of water to mitigate floods and droughts.

“By investing in watersheds, we are improving community protections from future floods and droughts. This funding not only supports landowners, it also results in cleaner water, thriving ecosystems, and a healthier environment for people and wildlife across the province.”

Rebecca Schulz, Minister of Environment and Protected Areas

“Our government is proud to fund and support our local partners who play a vital role in restoring wetlands and riparian areas while fostering stewardship to protect Alberta’s water systems for future generations.”

Grant Hunter, Associate Minister of Water

The new Watershed Resiliency and Restoration Program funding is investing in important projects across the province, from improving watershed health in the Lesser Slave region to revitalizing the urban banks of Calgary’s Elbow River. In Medicine Hat, students will gain hands-on experience in bioengineering techniques for stabilizing riverbanks, blending restoration with education. Drought resilience efforts will help urban homeowners in Lethbridge manage water more effectively and support landowners in Milk River as they design sustainable irrigation plans.

Applications are now open for another $3.5 million in funding to support even more watershed resilience and restoration projects. Organizations, non-profits, Indigenous communities, and municipalities can apply until September 15, 2025.

“Funding from the Watershed Resiliency and Restoration Program will help our residents implement long-term strategies to address drought in Lethbridge. By transitioning to water-wise, drought resilient landscaping, homeowners can put plans in action today that will lead to water conservation success in the future. Environment Lethbridge is thrilled to be able to use this funding to help urban residents achieve their outdoor water conservation goals.”

Kathleen Sheppard, executive director, Environment Lethbridge Council

“With funding from the province’s WRRP program, the Lesser Slave Watershed Council maintains capacity to engage with municipal and community partners, educate and inform watershed residents about the importance of resilient riparian areas and wetlands, assess riparian condition on streams in our basin, and work one-on-one with landowners to implement on-the-ground projects that protect or enhance valuable riparian habitat. The program has been essential to the Lesser Slave Watershed Council’s Watershed Resiliency Program since 2016.”

Meghan Payne, executive director, Lesser Slave Watershed Council

Quick facts
- Since 2020, Alberta’s government has invested approximately $50 million through the Watershed Resiliency and Restoration Program.
- To date, the program has provided 215 grants to 85 organizations that have helped support the restoration, enhancement and conservation of 5,475 hectares of wetlands as well as more than 2,300 hectares of riparian areas covering 320 kilometres of streambank.
- More than 11,000 Albertans have participated in training workshops funded through the program on natural restoration techniques and other practices that enhance watershed resiliency.
Related information
- Watershed Resiliency and Restoration Program
- List of funded projects
MIL OSI Canada News –
July 12, 2025

Category: Natural Disasters

FAA Also Awards Nearly $18 Million for Airport Projects Statewide

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