NewzIntel.com

Category: Politics

  • MIL-Evening Report: Canada a 51st state? Here’s how American annexation could actually favour Canada

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Felix Arndt, Professor and John F. Wood Chair in Entrepreneurship, University of Guelph

    When United States President Donald Trump first floated the idea of annexing Canada, many observers rolled their eyes. The common assumption was that this proposal, like much of Trump’s bombast, amounted to little more than a fleeting soundbite.

    Yet, amid continuing public remarks about Canada becoming the 51st state and suggestions of genuine intent, the idea has become part of a broader conversation about North America’s future.

    The idea of the U.S. merging with Canada outright has not been received well in Canada, especially because Trump’s threats have been accompanied by economic warfare aimed at forcing Canada into submission. After all, the U.S. already has 50 states. Canada, with its population of about 40 million and its immense geographic size, would be an outsized “51st” by any comparison.

    But any serious analysis of this proposition quickly reveals that annexation would be far more complicated — and far less one-sided — than the label “51st state.”

    Our analysis is premised on an assumption that the U.S. remains a democratic system that has not turned into a pseudo-monarchy, in keeping with a Trump social media post in early February proclaiming “long live the King.”

    The most important takeaway from our analysis is that a unified country would need to inaugurate a new president and Parliament. The path towards the integration of the countries would have to start with closer economic integration, not the alienation currently in place.

    A multi-state reality

    As we argue in our newest self-published book Make America Greater? A Scenario of a Friendly Canada-U.S. Merger, Canada would not simply become part of the U.S. as a single state under the provisions of the American Constitution.

    Based on population and the distribution of power in U.S. Congress, Canada’s 10 provinces and three northern territories would almost certainly be carved into multiple states, perhaps nine or more.

    This is no small detail.

    America’s unique electoral arithmetic grants each state two senators, while seats in the House of Representatives depend on population size. With around 40 million new citizens, a unified North America would reshape the balance of power in both the Senate and the House.



    Read more:
    Canada as a 51st state? Republicans would never win another general election

    Critically, the new country formed via unification might end up looking far more like Canada than many Americans imagine.

    Why? Canadian voters lean more centrist — or even centre-left — than the average American does. Over time, that could tilt congressional priorities in favour of policies reflecting Canada’s taste for universal health care, stricter gun control and robust social welfare.

    The longstanding political tug-of-war in the U.S. could see its centre of gravity shift, likely to the chagrin of some more conservative segments of the existing union.

    Tariffs, politics and tensions

    Officials on both sides of the border are already locked in a dance of retaliatory tariffs.

    Each new measure escalates anxieties, threatening to derail one of the world’s largest bilateral trading relationships.

    Some might argue that if tariffs are putting negative pressures on the economy and roiling the markets, perhaps deeper integration — or even full-blown unification — could serve as a release valve. But the path towards a friendly merger is best taken step-by-step and starts with stronger economic integration, not alienation.



    Read more:
    Canada’s response to Trump’s tariffs was strategic, but there is room for improvement

    Forging a genuine union goes well beyond removing trade barriers. Canada and the U.S. differ on far more than just economics: from bilingualism laws to gun regulations, from health care to environmental policy, the two countries embody contrasting visions of how society should function.

    Canadians would expect to preserve elements of their social contract that many regard as superior to American norms — particularly their single-payer health-care system and comparatively strict firearms restrictions.

    A process genuinely aimed at integrating the two countries would take this into account. It would extend the United States-Mexico-Canada trade deal further to strengthen economic integration, elevate the rights of French and Spanish speakers in the U.S. in order to signal compatible cultural values and extend Medicare to show an appreciation of the common denominators of the two societies.

    Trump’s current rhetoric, however, does not seem to indicate a genuine desire for a unification.

    Why a merger could favour Canada

    As surprising as it seems, our analysis suggests that a unified North America could lean Canada’s way over time.

    Even if the American Electoral College were reimagined — or scrapped — Canadian provinces transformed into states would wield significant power, influencing everything from budget allocations to Supreme Court appointments.



    Read more:
    As Joe Biden becomes president, here’s an easy proposal for Electoral College reform

    What’s more, cultural convergence has an asymmetrical pull. Younger Americans show a growing appetite for social safety nets, while Canadians remain broadly wedded to their publicly funded health-care model.

    Over a few election cycles, these forces could converge into a more expansive welfare regime, something that would astonish traditional conservatives across the current 50 states.

    A combined North America would boast one of the largest economies on Earth, including abundant natural resources and technological innovation.

    The promise of frictionless trade, a single currency and vast internal markets might delight big business and certain multinational interests. Yet the path would be fraught.

    Constitutional arrangements, Indigenous rights, linguistic protections and environmental regulations — all areas in which Canadian norms diverge significantly from American precedents — would have to be reconciled.

    Canadians, proud of their universal healthcare, progressive climate policies and lower rates of gun violence, would worry about being subsumed by a more rambunctious, militarized neighbour. Americans, meanwhile, would fear they would be forced to adopt new taxes and policies at odds with their historic emphasis on individual freedoms.

    A country more closely resembling Canada

    Regardless of whether Trump’s annexation talk proves more than just bluster, the notion of a friendly U.S.–Canada merger invites reflection. It reminds us that North America’s two largest nations remain economically interlocked and geographically co-located, though culturally distinct.

    With tariffs in place and cross-border tensions mounting, creative solutions are worth examining, even if a merger can — at best — be seen as a long-term vision.

    A genuine offer of a merger would require that Canadians to be assured that if such a union did transpire, their voices might echo far more loudly than expected in the halls of Washington, D.C.

    And Americans — facing shifting demographics and changing societal values — may discover that the annexation Trump initiated could bring surprises that tilt the new country much closer to its northern neighbour’s ideals than to the status quo below the 49th parallel.

    Felix Arndt is an author of a book referred to in this article.

    Barak Aharonson is an author of a book with a similar topic.

    – ref. Canada a 51st state? Here’s how American annexation could actually favour Canada – https://theconversation.com/canada-a-51st-state-heres-how-american-annexation-could-actually-favour-canada-251547

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ‘Putin’s brain’: Aleksandr Dugin, the Russian ultra-nationalist who has endorsed Donald Trump

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kevin Riehle, Lecturer in Intelligence and Security Studies, Brunel University of London

    Aleksandr Dugin, sometimes referred to as “Putin’s brain” because of his ideological influence on Russian politics, endorsed the policies of Donald Trump in a CNN interview aired on March 30. Dugin said Trump’s America has a lot more in common with Putin’s Russia than most people think, adding: “Trumpists and the followers of Trump will understand much better what Russia is, who Putin is and the motivations of our politics.”

    Dugin made his name by espousing Russian nationalist and traditionalist – including antisemitic – themes, and publishing extensively on the centrality of Russia in world civilisation. So, this endorsement should be a warning of the disruptive nature of the Trump White House. It implies that Dugin believes Trump’s policies support Russian interests.

    Dugin began his career as an anti-communist activist in the 1980s. This was less because of an ideological antipathy for communism than his rejection of the internationalism that the Communist Party of the Soviet Union espoused. He also criticised the party for breaking from traditional – especially religious – values.

    Dugin proposes what he calls a “fourth political theory”. The first three, he claims, are Marxism, fascism and liberalism – all of which he thinks contain elements of error, especially their rejection of tradition and the subordination of culture to scientific thought.

    Dugin’s fourth political theory takes pieces from all three and discards the elements with which Dugin disagrees, especially the dwindling importance of traditional family and culture. The culmination is a melange of ideas that sometimes appear Marxist and sometimes fascist, but which always centre on the criticality of traditional Russian culture.

    His founding philosophy is traditionalism, which he views as a strength of Russia. Thus, he has become a strong supporter of the country’s president, Vladimir Putin, who emphasises traditional Russian values. Dugin and Putin align in their criticism of liberalist anti-religious individualism, which they claim destroys the values and culture on which society is based.

    Dugin has value for Putin because he advances the president’s objectives. Putin’s security goals are in part founded on the principle that political unity is strength and political division is weakness. If Russia can maintain political unity by whatever means necessary, it retains its perception of strength. And if a state opposed to Russia is divided internally, it can be portrayed as weak.

    The Russian government claims complete political unity inside Russia. Its spokespeople reinforce that claim by declaring, for example, the Russian electorate was so unified behind Putin that the 2024 Russian presidential election could have been skipped as an unnecessary expense. They also push a strained claim that the Russian population is unanimously behind the Ukraine war.

    Dugin energises voters behind Putin, basing his support on the philosophy of Russian greatness and cultural superiority, and the perception of Russian unity. His influence has been felt throughout the Russian government and society. He publishes prolifically, and lectures at universities and government agencies about the harms of western liberalism. He also served as an advisor to Sergey Naryshkin, currently director of the Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) of the Russian Federation.

    Dugin’s views support an expansionist Russia, especially in the direction of Ukraine. He questions the existence of Ukraine and promotes Russia’s war there wholeheartedly. But his support for the war led to an attempt on his life. On August 20 2022, a bomb exploded in a car owned by Dugin, killing his daughter, Darya, who was driving it back from a festival of Russian traditional art.

    Divide and conquer

    Russia applies the same principle of “unity equals strength” to its adversaries, but in reverse. Many Russian political thinkers try to emphasise political divisions in unfriendly states. They work hard to broaden existing disagreements and support disruptive political parties and groups.

    Such operations give the Russian government the ability to denigrate the foreign powers that Russia considers adversaries by making them look weak in the eyes of their own people – and more importantly, in the eyes of the Russian population.

    Dugin lays a philosophical foundation for foreign parties that oppose the European Union and western liberalism, and that disrupt political unity. His views have been adopted by far-right political groups such as the German National Democratic Party, the British National Party, Golden Dawn in Greece, Jobbik in Hungary, and the National Front in France.

    Dugin’s interview in which he endorsed Trump’s policies is likely to have been directly authorised by the Kremlin. He pushes a Kremlin-sponsored endorsement of Trump’s divisive – and thus weakening – effect on US politics.

    But Dugin’s extreme Russian nationalist rhetoric at times clashes with Putin’s attempts to include all peoples of Russia in a strong unified state, rather than only ethnic Russians. As it is a multi-ethnic state, Russian ethnic nationalism can obstruct Putin’s attempts at portraying strength through unity. The label “Putin’s brain” is only accurate sometimes.

    The Russian government uses Dugin when he is useful and separates itself from him when his extremism is inconvenient. Dugin is a tool who says many of the right things and facilitates Kremlin goals. His endorsement of Trump should be seen in its context: Russia attempting to strengthen itself at the expense of the US.

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

    – ref. ‘Putin’s brain’: Aleksandr Dugin, the Russian ultra-nationalist who has endorsed Donald Trump – https://theconversation.com/putins-brain-aleksandr-dugin-the-russian-ultra-nationalist-who-has-endorsed-donald-trump-253466

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Dogs see their world through smell – and scientists are starting to translate it like never before

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jacqueline Boyd, Senior Lecturer in Animal Science, Nottingham Trent University

    Lorenzooooo/Shutterstock

    Scent is how dogs largely experience the world, a lot like the way we humans rely on sight. We know little about how dogs interpret scent, but thanks to a recent study, we may be getting closer to understanding what a dog’s nose actually knows.

    Dogs are primed to detect smells. The average dog’s nose has more than 10 million scent receptors in their nose, compared to humans, who only have about 6 million.

    This makes the canine nose more than 10, 000 times better at detecting scents than we are. They can detect minute quantities of scent. For example, forensic detection dogs can detect 0.01 microlitres of gasolene. A microlitre is one millionth of a litre.

    Humans have exploited dogs’ olfactory superpowers in a number of ways, which has no doubt contributed to the deep relationship we have developed with our canine companions over 40,000 years living together.

    Dogs still join us as hunting partners, sniffing out food. They work beside us as vital members of crime-fighting teams, finding illicit substances, as medical colleagues for disease detection, and as partners in conservation efforts, finding rare and endangered species.

    Despite the widespread involvement of dogs as natural scent detectors, we remain largely oblivious as to how dogs interpret what they smell and how they perceive the world in which they live.

    We don’t know much about dogs’ experience of smell – but we know they’re good at it.
    Sundays Photography/Shutterstock

    Exploring the brain activity of dogs when they are exposed to specific smells can help identify which of their brain regions are associated with scent detection. This helps scientists understand what the dog is experiencing, which might help us enhance the selection and training of sniffer dogs.

    Until now, scientists needed expensive equipment to study dogs’ brains and research methods that required dogs to stay still. This means we know less about the brains of active working dogs who might struggle to remain motionless for long periods.

    But we can’t simply apply the data from dogs who can cope with sitting still since dog breeds have differences in their training and scenting skills.

    Sensing scents

    The recent study I mentioned at the beginning of this article uses a new, cheap and non-invasive method to explore how the canine brain responds to scent. The researchers think that this method – known as AI speckle pattern analysis – will help us identify how dog brains react to scents and what it means for how dogs perceive and respond to the world around them in future research too.

    The researchers developed an optical sensor to target three brain areas involved in canine scent discrimination: the amygdala, olfactory bulb and hippocampus. The amygdala is responsible for emotional responses to stimuli.

    The olfactory bulb is involved with odour processing and the hippocampus is associated with memory formation.

    The equipment used in the study consisted of a high resolution digital camera linked to a computer, plus a green laser. Laser light, capable of penetrating dog fur and skull bone, was shone on the heads of four relaxed, blindfolded study dogs who were exposed to four different scents: alcohol, marijuana, menthol and garlic. These substances all appear to evoke similar olfactory responses in dogs.

    As laser light was reflected from the three brain areas, the camera detected interference as a distinct “speckle” pattern. The camera made recordings for five seconds, repeated four times for each scent.

    AI analysed differences in the speckle patterns from the different brain regions to create models of how the brain regions of the dogs responded to each scent.

    It’s not just sniffing

    The study results highlighted the importance of the amygdala for canine scent discrimination. This suggests that there could be an emotional component to how dogs sense their environment. Taste and odour detection are also known to be linked to memory formation and emotional state in humans.

    Because dogs appear to experience emotional responses to scents, training methods and experiences might need to take this into consideration. For example, dogs often link the characteristic aroma of the veterinary surgery with less-than-fun situations.

    Dogs in training for scent detection would also probably benefit from being in a positive emotional state when they are exposed to training odours.

    This research could even pave the way to developing specialised equipment for detecting and translating the olfactory responses of dogs. Mobile equipment that works rapidly could allow us to interpret what dogs’ noses are telling them in real time.

    This isn’t as far-fetched as it may sound. If you’ve seen the Disney movie Up, you probably remember Dug the dog who wore a bark translation collar. Well, scientists have developed a real collar that claims to tell you what your dog’s vocalisations mean.

    It’s difficult to say how accurate it is without analysing the data the collar’s AI was trained on, but the database is growing as more dogs use the collars. If the collars do prove accurate, it might not be too long before wearable technology can tell us exactly what our dogs are saying and smelling.

    Jacqueline Boyd is affiliated with The Kennel Club (UK) through membership and as advisor to the Health Advisory Group. Jacqueline is a full member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT #01583) and she also writes, consults and coaches on canine matters on an independent basis, in addition to her academic affiliation at Nottingham Trent University.

    – ref. Dogs see their world through smell – and scientists are starting to translate it like never before – https://theconversation.com/dogs-see-their-world-through-smell-and-scientists-are-starting-to-translate-it-like-never-before-252659

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch’s Bipartisan Bill to Help Dairy Farmers and Students Considered by the Agriculture Committee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    Welch urged Republicans to support USDA’s school nutrition and dairy support programs.
    WASHINGTON, D.C.—In an Agriculture Committee hearing today focused on U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.)’s Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, Sen. Welch celebrated Vermont’s dairy farmers and students and called for passage of this bipartisan, bicameral bill. Senator Welch also urged his colleagues to support school nutrition programs, including those championed by former Senator Leahy, which benefit students and local farmers. 
    “Kids are hungry and it’s through no fault of their own…It is really reassuring to me that we’re taking up this bill about whole milk. It’s about whole milk. It’s about our farmers. It’s about an acknowledgment that school is a place where kids get the opportunity to get some decent nutrition. It doesn’t matter what our politics are—we all care about our kids, right? …Whole food tends to be more locally produced. The virtuous cycle that happens when you are getting local products, milk from Vermont dairy (or Kansas dairy, or West Virginia) or vegetables grown locally, that is healthy food, but it’s also locally produced and strengthens the rural economy. All of us, in every one of our states, is really suffering from incredible pressures on the rural economy that is making life very difficult there,” said Senator Peter Welch.  
    “I hope that as we pursue this—this whole milk opportunity for our kids and for our farmers—that it is the beginning of the real commitment to nutritious, locally produced, natural foods as being a much bigger part of what our diet is,” continued Welch. 
    Watch the hearing here:  
    Senator Welch also questioned witness Dan Gorman, Food Service Director of Montague Area Public and North Muskegon Public Schools, about the importance of food programs created by Senator Welch’s predecessor, former Chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee Patrick Leahy, which have lost funding as a consequence of President Trump’s freeze on federal grants and loans: 
    Senator Welch: “Mr. Gorman, my predecessor in the United States Senate from Vermont is that man who’s staring at us right from his picture up there: former Chairman of the Agriculture Committee Patrick Leahy. And we in Vermont are very proud of all he did. One of his many accomplishments was the Patrick Leahy farm-to-school [program]…That was terminated for the rest of this fiscal year and my understanding understand is it will be reinstated next year.  Can you just comment on the benefit of Senators Leahy’s legacy program that was supported with a strong bipartisan majority in the United States Senate?”
    Mr. Gorman: “Thank you for that question. It really is. We were a recipient of the grant probably 5 or 6 years ago, and we had applied again this coming year and got that notice that it was cancelled. So, it was really crushing to us. It is a jumpstart to local food movements. I think about over our past 10-15 years, it started us building towards figuring out the local infrastructure and getting more local food and starting school gardens. Over the past five years we’ve gotten private and public grants in our county—over $2 million to move on this issue, to get kids so they understand what local food is, to make those connections. We’re starting a food processing plant in Muskegon County with the goal of getting local Michigan potatoes diced and frozen so we can get them on every plate in Muskegon County and beyond. All of that started with that farm-to-school grant that we got 10 years ago as a cooperative to start putting those pieces together.”  
    The bipartisan, bicameral Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, led by Senator Roger Marshall, MD (R-Kan.), would support America’s students and dairy farmers by allowing schools participating in the National School Lunch Program to offer students whole milk, in addition to reduced-fat, low-fat, fat-free, and lactose-free milk.  
    Senator Welch recently joined Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and 15 of his Democratic colleagues in introducing the Honor Farmer Contracts Act, legislation to release illegally withheld funding for all contracts and agreements previously entered into by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). This bill would require the USDA to pay farmers all past-due payments as quickly as possible to prevent them from having to shut down their operations.  Last week, Senator Welch and 30 Senators called on Secretary Rollins urging USDA to support local food for schools and local food system grant programs. 
    As Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Credit, Senator Welch has led bipartisan efforts to support Vermont’s dairy farmers and strengthen the state’s dairy industry. Senator Welch introduced several bills in the 118th Congress to support Vermont’s dairy, organic, and specialty crop farmers; strengthen rural development and infrastructure; increase energy efficiency and renewable energy adoption; improve access to nutrition; strengthen our local food systems and expand markets; and make our communities more resilient to flooding. These bills were included in Senate Democrats’ draft Farm Bill, the Rural Prosperity and Food Security Act. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NCEI Collaborates with FathomVerse to Celebrate Citizen Science Month

    Source: US National Oceanographic Data Center

    Every April, NCEI celebrates Citizen Science month, which is dedicated to celebrating the public’s participation in scientific discovery and research. Whether it be by using NOAA’s CrowdMag application to gather geomagnetic data on a smartphone or crowdsourcing weather reports using mPING, there are several ways to join in on Citizen Science month fun.

    This year, NCEI is pleased to collaborate with Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI) by featuring their FathomVerse mobile game, which just launched their latest version on March 26. FathomVerse uses ocean data and imagery stewarded by NCEI/NOAA to create a hands-on, accessible approach to everyday ocean exploration.  

    What is FathomVerse?

    FathomVerse is a free mobile game that invites everyone with a smartphone or tablet to contribute to science. By playing productive mini-games and interacting with stunning ocean imagery, gamers can partner with researchers to identify ocean animals while training AI.

    Why play FathomVerse?

    Most of ocean life is still unknown to science, and FathomVerse was created to help fill the knowledge gap while engaging the public ocean researchers and scientists. AI is used to capture ocean images and analyze them, but relies on people to continuously train and verify the models. Every time someone interacts with the FathomVerse game, the machine learning models are trained and improved upon.

    How does FathomVerse work?

    FathomVerse aims to increase our capacity to measure and monitor marine life in a changing ocean. The game offers an interactive community science experience where players engage with scientific images collected by robots and researchers around the world. Every experience in FathomVerse is filled with imagery that researchers, government agencies, and coastal communities collected with imaging systems and shared with us.

    With advances in imaging and AI technology, we can capture images of the ocean and quickly analyze them. By interacting with the game, players help train the AI that researchers use to find and identify animals in real ocean imagery. In doing so, you’ll hone your skills and learn how to identify nearly 50 groups of ocean animals.

    By tapping into our collective curiosity, FathomVerse seeks to transform ocean exploration by engaging a community of passionate ocean enthusiasts to work alongside researchers.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SEC Charges Three Arizona Individuals with Defrauding Investors in $284 Million Municipal Bond Offering That Financed Sports Complex

    Source: Securities and Exchange Commission

    The Securities and Exchange Commission today charged Randall “Randy” Miller, Chad Miller, and Jeffrey De Laveaga with creating false documents that were provided to investors in two municipal bond offerings that raised $284 million to build one of the largest sports venues of its kind in the United States.

    As alleged in the SEC’s complaint, in August 2020 and June 2021, Randy Miller’s nonprofit company, Legacy Cares, issued approximately $284 million in municipal bonds through an Arizona state entity to finance the construction of a multi-sports park and family entertainment center in Mesa, Arizona. Investors were to be paid from revenue from the sports complex, and investors were given financial projections for revenue that were multiple times the amount needed to cover payments to investors, according to the complaint. However, the complaint alleges that the defendants fabricated or altered documents forming the basis for those revenue projections, including letters of intent and contracts with sports clubs, leagues, and other entities to use the sports complex. The sports complex opened in January 2022 with far fewer events and much lower attendance and generated tens of millions less in revenue than expected under the false projections, and the bonds defaulted in October 2022, according to the complaint.

    “As our complaint alleges, these defendants used fake documents to deceive municipal bond investors into believing a sports complex would generate more than enough revenue to make payments to bondholders,” said Antonia Apps, Acting Deputy Director of the SEC’s Division of Enforcement. “Maintaining the integrity of the approximately $4 trillion municipal bond market is critical for local governments and investors alike. The SEC will hold accountable individuals who defraud municipal bond investors.”

    The SEC’s complaint, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, charges Randy Miller, Chad Miller, and De Laveaga with violating the antifraud provisions of the federal securities laws and seeks permanent injunctions, conduct-based injunctions, disgorgement with prejudgment interest, and civil penalties.

    In a parallel action, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York today announced criminal charges for similar conduct.

    The SEC’s investigation was conducted by William T. Salzmann, Jonathan Grant, Joseph Chimienti, and Creighton Papier and supervised by David Zhou and Rebecca Olsen of the Public Finance Abuse Unit. They were assisted by Steven Varholik of the San Francisco Regional Office. The litigation will be led by Jason Bussey of the San Francisco Regional Office, Mr. Salzmann, and Mr. Grant. The SEC’s investigation is ongoing. The SEC appreciates the assistance of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York and the FBI.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Statement at Executive Session to Consider SSA Commissioner

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo
    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) delivered the following remarks at an executive session to consider the nomination of Frank Bisignano to be Commissioner of the Social Security Administration (SSA).
    As prepared for delivery:
    “We meet today to vote on the nomination of Frank Bisignano be Commissioner of the Social Security Administration (SSA). 
    “As we have done with other nominees, the meeting this morning will provide members with the opportunity to make remarks on Mr. Bisignano’s nomination.  We will notify members of a time and location later today to conduct the vote. 
    “Mr. Bisignano has more than 30 years of executive leadership experience in banks and financial institutions.  He currently serves as the Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Fiserv, Inc., a leader in payments and financial technology. 
    “At his nomination hearing, Mr. Bisignano discussed his vision for improving the Social Security Administration’s service to the public, including bringing down wait times for the SSA’s National 800 Number and for claims decisions.
    “While Mr. Bisignano has extensive experience using information technology to improve organizational performance, he also understands the importance of meeting customers where they are.  He committed to ensuring that individuals can interact with SSA in the way they prefer, whether in-person, by phone or online. 
    “Mr. Bisignano would also draw on his decades of experience to improve SSA’s payment accuracy.  When SSA issues an improper payment, it places a burden on the affected beneficiaries, agency employees and taxpayers. 
    “I look forward to working with him to achieve these important goals.
    “Before moving on, let me address the allegations made during Mr. Bisignano’s nomination hearing that he “lied about his connections to DOGE and its efforts to break Social Security.”  I remind my colleagues that Mr. Bisignano does not currently hold a position at the Social Security Administration, let alone a decision-making position. 
    “Mr. Bisignano’s nomination was first announced in December 2024 and he has been going through the Finance Committee’s rigorous due diligence process for months.  Yet, the allegations against Mr. Bisignano, made in an anonymous letter, were not shared with me or my staff until after his hearing commenced. 
    “The anonymous letter claims that Mr. Bisignano insisted on personally approving several key DOGE hires at the agency and getting frequent briefings.  Mr. Bisignano responded to these allegations in writing this weekend as part of the questions for the record.  Mr. Bisignano stated that he does not have a role at SSA and was not part of the decision-making process led by the current Acting Commissioner, Lee Dudek, about SSA operations, personnel, or management.  Mr. Bisignano stated he communicated with former Acting Commissioner Michelle King multiple times and had brief introductory phone calls with individuals chosen for various acting roles.  Mr. Bisignano said he has not spoken with Acting Commissioner Dudek, beyond a short introductory phone call. 
    “The anonymous letter specifically mentions four individuals that Mr. Bisignano has been in contact with and/or pushed SSA to onboard.  Mr. Bisignano reiterated, in writing, that he has a twenty-year professional relationship with one contact; periodic contact with another on general matters related to the agency; was referred to another to help him with preparation for his confirmation hearing; and the last individual he does not know, at all.
    “Even though the timing of the anonymous letter suggests a political effort to delay a Committee vote on this nominee, my staff have told Senator Wyden’s staff we are open to meeting with the author of the letter and keeping the individual anonymous.  However, any information provided by the individual must be thoroughly vetted, including allowing the nominee the opportunity to respond.  A process for vetting the allegations has not been agreed to.
    “The issue here, as I understand it, is the frequency and details of communications between the nominee and SSA officials.  The nominee has responded in writing to these allegations. 
    “The SSA needs steady, Senate-confirmed leadership.  Mr. Bisignano would bring his decades-long focus on strong customer service and operational excellence to the SSA.  I urge my colleagues to support his nomination.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Adolescence has sparked fears over teen slang – but emoji don’t cause radicalisation

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jessica Kruk, Lecturer in Indonesian Studies and Linguistics, The University of Western Australia

    Shutterstock

    Jack Thorne and Stephen Graham’s crime drama Adolescence has earned widespread praise for its portrayal of incel culture and male violence.

    But the show’s portrayal of 13-year-old Jamie (Owen Cooper) being radicalised by misogynistic online content has a lot of parents concerned about their own kids and how they talk online.

    For many, this concern is amplified by the fear that, just like the adults in Adolescence, parents are often ignorant of the online language kids use to spread dangerous beliefs.

    Journalists have produced a flurry of articles that promise to decode the “hidden meaning” of teen language by focusing on emoji featured on the show. One headline references supposedly “sinister emojis used by incel teenagers”.

    Such concerns reflect a long history of moral panic around youth language. But defining or banning emoji won’t solve the deeper issues at play.

    Emoji in Adolescence

    Adolescence follows Jamie and his family after the teenager is accused of murdering his classmate, Katie.

    The second episode shows Adam (Amari Bacchus), the teenage son of detective inspector Luke Bascombe (Ashley Walters), correcting his father’s misunderstanding of a series of emoji Katie posted on Jaime’s Instagram profile.

    While Bascome assumes the 💯 and 💥 emoji are flirtatious, Adam explains that, in this context, they are connected to the online “manosphere”.

    Bascome is initially resistant to this explanation, but Adam convinces him by citing examples of different meanings associated with different coloured heart emoji; red is specifically used for “love”, while orange means “you’re going to be fine”. He stresses “it all has a meaning”.

    This scene highlights key generational divides in the perception and use of emoji. For Adam and Jamie’s parents’ generation, emoji are largely treated as decorative. For teenagers, they can carry important meanings.

    Are the kids actually alright?

    It’s important to remember this isn’t the first time we’ve seen concerns about generational communication differences reflecting larger social rifts.
    There are numerous examples in the media linking slang with issues of education, moral decline and even crime.

    These attitudes have sparked debate over whether Australian schools should ban gen alpha and gen Z slang from classrooms.

    While the frustration of parents and teachers is understandable, linguistic research shows aggressively negative attitudes towards teen language demotivate young people, exacerbate inequality and unnecessarily stoke intergenerational tension.

    Emoji are highly context dependent. Much like gestures that are used with speech, we need to understand emoji in the specific conversations and communities they are used in. There is no consistent relationship between emoji use and inner emotional state that can be generalised across groups of teens or other emoji users.

    Instead of fearing or banning emoji, we can try and understand how and why they are used in various contexts. And there are plenty of online resources to help with this. EmojiPedia, for example, describes the pill emoji 💊 as potentially referencing medicine, drugs, or an awakening to a controversial perspective (the “red pill” beliefs referenced in Adolecensce).

    Emojis are also highly contextual. While the pill emoji may be present in misogynistic talk, it could also be referencing medication in another context.
    Shutterstock

    Emoji are intentionally flexible and intended to be used creatively. In fact, Unicode, the organisation that assesses proposals for new emoji, requires that items encoded as emoji are able to hold multiple meanings.

    Research has also shown different people react to emoji differently. One survey from 2018 found older men were most likely to view emoji as confusing and annoying, while young women were most likely to view emoji positively in communication.

    Times change, and stay the same

    Intergenerational differences, and the tensions they evoke, are nothing new.

    Back in the 2000s, parents and teachers voiced concerns that “netspeak”, with its creative punctuation and capitalisation, would diminish young people’s grasp of “proper” English. This did not come to pass.

    Does this mean parents have nothing to worry about when it comes to their kids communicating online? Of course not.

    Online misogynistic movements and red pill communities can bring great harm to vulnerable young people. Their growing popularity is something we all have to reckon with – but online language is not to blame.

    Parents can’t realistically prevent the radicalisation of young men by simply referencing an emoji dictionary, nor can teachers stamp out the spread of misogyny by banning emoji and slang in classrooms.

    Instead, as one scene between Adam and his dad shows, we need to collectively shift our focus towards facilitating open conversations between generations.

    By doing so, we can not only better understand our differences, but can reduce the feelings of social isolation that leave young people vulnerable to becoming radicalised.

    Lauren Gawne is affiliated with Unicode as a member of the Emoji Standard & Research Working Group.

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

    – ref. Adolescence has sparked fears over teen slang – but emoji don’t cause radicalisation – https://theconversation.com/adolescence-has-sparked-fears-over-teen-slang-but-emoji-dont-cause-radicalisation-253218

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: A ban on price gouging and new powers to break up supermarkets are on the table this election. Would either work?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Barbora Jedlickova, Senior Lecturer, School of Law, The University of Queensland

    wisely/Shutterstock

    With the federal election campaign now underway, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has promised that if re-elected, Labor would seek to make price gouging illegal in the supermarket sector.

    A new taskforce would be set up to examine the best way to do so, drawing on the experience of other countries. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) would then enforce the new “excessive pricing regime”.

    Labor’s proposal comes despite the fact the final report from the ACCC’s supermarkets inquiry didn’t make any explicit accusation of price gouging.

    Meanwhile, the Coalition and Greens still want new divestiture powers to break up the supermarkets, a course of action also not recommended by the ACCC’s report.



    Read more:
    Policy tracker: how will Labor, the Coalition, the Greens and the independents make Australia better?

    Price gouging

    Price gouging, also referred to as “excessive pricing”, isn’t illegal in Australia. As long as prices are set independently by an individual business – and not in collusion with supposed competitors – they can be set as high or low as desired.

    However, the Australian Competition and Consumer Act does allow the ACCC to monitor and regulate the price of some “notified” goods or services – with approval from the relevant federal minister.

    One current example are postal services. The ACCC assesses proposed price increases, and can make an objection.

    Price gouging isn’t illegal in Australia.
    doublelee/Shutterstock

    The legal situation on price gouging differs around the world.

    The European Union, for example, prohibits abuse of a dominant market position by “directly or indirectly imposing unfair purchase or selling prices”.

    It can be difficult to define an “unfair price”. Typically, it’s an excessive, monopolistic price higher than what would be set in a competitive market.

    A landmark EU judgement defines an excessive price as one with “no reasonable relation to the economic value of the product supplied”.

    Despite this ban, enforcement cases are somewhat rare. The European Commission has been more focused on tackling “exclusionary conduct” in recent decades.

    This is when a competitor with significant market power uses restrictive means to directly hurt its competitors and exclude them (and future competitors) from competing in the relevant market.

    An example is predatory pricing, where a company sets prices unrealistically low to drive out competitors – then becoming able to set them as high as they would like.

    What about divestiture?

    Both the Coalition and Greens have pledged to create new “divestiture” powers to break up supermarkets if they were found to be abusing their market power.

    In competition law, divestiture is when a commercial entity is ordered to sell a portion of its assets or its business to a third party, to improve competition in the affected market.

    Australian law has divestiture powers to address anti-competitive mergers and acquisitions. But currently, there aren’t powers to break up businesses for misuse of market power.

    It’s a different picture in the United States, where the government has had powers to break up businesses in the context of “monopolisation” for more than a century.

    The risks of splitting up

    Divestiture powers were not recommended in the ACCC’s final report. That may be linked to market structure here.

    The Australian grocery retail market is highly concentrated. The majority of retail sales are shared among only a few supermarket chains, primarily Woolworths (38%) and Coles (29%).

    However, the combined share of these two retail giants has declined over the past 14 years, from 80% to 67%. Meanwhile, Aldi’s market share has grown to 9%, showing these two retailers face some competition.

    This suggests divestiture may be a misguided approach. There are specific risks that come with divestiture remedies.

    For instance, who would purchase the assets under a specific divestiture order? When considering the structure of the current grocery retail market, there is a high risk it would be another powerful retailer interested in purchasing its competitor’s assets. This would defeat the purpose entirely.

    Other measures already in motion

    Any ban on price gouging or new divestiture powers should be implemented with caution and used as a temporary tool. Directly interfering with free markets comes with risks.

    Other actions are already underway to boost competition in the sector and improve supermarkets’ dealings with suppliers.

    The federal government has previously announced incentives for the states to “cut planning and zoning red tape”, with the aim of making it easier for smaller supermarkets to enter the market and compete.

    And from April, the Food and Grocery Code of Conduct will be made mandatory and enforceable, in line with a key recommendation of the independent Emerson review.

    The Food and Grocery Code of Conduct for dealing with suppliers is now mandatory.
    Nita Corfe/Shutterstock

    Certain restrictive and unfair practices in dealing with suppliers will be directly prohibited and enforced.

    The new code gives the ACCC a range of useful tools to enforce against a breach by a powerful supermarket chain.

    These include:

    • a confidential channel for whistleblowing suppliers
    • effective dispute resolution to address lengthy and costly litigation
    • heavy penalties – as high as A$10 million or 10% of annual turnover – for serious breaches of the code.

    Rather than bring in measures that have not been independently recommended – like a price gouging ban or divestiture powers – it would be worth first seeing how these new enforceable rules work to deliver a better deal for supermarket customers.

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

    – ref. A ban on price gouging and new powers to break up supermarkets are on the table this election. Would either work? – https://theconversation.com/a-ban-on-price-gouging-and-new-powers-to-break-up-supermarkets-are-on-the-table-this-election-would-either-work-253429

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Australians want nature protected. These 3 environmental problems should be top of the next government’s to-do list

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Euan Ritchie, Professor in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, School of Life & Environmental Sciences, Deakin University

    Christina Zdenek

    Australia is a place of great natural beauty, home to many species found nowhere else on Earth. But it’s also particularly vulnerable to introduced animals, diseases and weeds. Habitat destruction, pollution and climate change make matters worse. To conserve what’s special, we need far greater care.

    Unfortunately, successive federal governments have failed to protect nature. Australia now has more than 2,000 threatened species and “ecological communities” – groups of native species that live together and interact. This threatened list is growing at an alarming rate.

    The Albanese government came to power in 2022 promising to reform the nation’s nature laws, following a scathing review of the laws. But it has failed to do so.

    If re-elected, Labor has vowed to complete its reforms and introduce a federal Environment Protection Agency, in some other form.

    The Coalition has not made such a commitment. Instead, it refers to “genuine conservation”, balancing the environment and the economy. They’ve also promised to cut “green tape” for industry.

    But scientific evidence suggests much more is required to protect Australia’s natural wonders.

    Fighting invaders

    Labor has made a welcome commitment of more than A$100 million to counter “highly pathogenic avian influenza”. This virulent strain of bird flu is likely to kill millions of native birds and other wildlife.

    The government also provided much-needed funding for a network of safe havens for threatened mammals. These safe-havens exclude cats, foxes and other invasive species.

    But much more needs to be done. Funding is urgently needed to eradicate red imported fire ants, before eradication becomes impossible. Other election commitments to look for include:

    Stopping land clearing and habitat destruction

    The states are largely responsible for controlling land clearing. But when land clearing affects “matters of national environmental significance” such as a nationally listed threatened species or ecological community, it becomes a federal matter.

    Such proposals are supposed to be referred to the federal environment minister for assessment under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act.

    But most habitat destruction is never referred. And if it is, it’s mostly deemed “not a controlled action”. That means no further consideration is required and the development can proceed.

    Only about 1.5% of the hundreds of thousands of hectares of land cleared in Australia every year is fully assessed under the EPBC Act.

    This means our threatened species and ecological communities are suffering a “death by a thousand cuts”.

    How do we fix this? A starting point is to introduce “national environmental standards” of the kind envisaged in the 2020 review of the EPBC Act by Professor Graeme Samuel.

    A strong Environment Protection Agency could ensure impacts on biodiversity are appropriately assessed and accounted for.

    Habitat destruction at Lee Point, Darwin.
    Martine Maron

    Protecting threatened species

    For Australia to turn around its extinction crisis, prospective elected representatives and governments must firmly commit to the following actions.

    Stronger environmental law and enforcement is essential for tackling biodiveristy decline and extinction. This should include what’s known as a “climate trigger”, which means any proposal likely to produce a significant amount of greenhouse gases would have to be assessed under the EPBC Act.

    This is necessary because climate change is among the greatest threats to biodiversity. But the federal environment minister is currently not legally bound to consider – or authorised to refuse – project proposals based on their greenhouse gas emissions. In an attempt to pass the EPBC reforms in the Senate last year, the Greens agreed to postpone their demand for a climate trigger.

    Key threats to species, including habitat destruction, invasive species, climate change, and pollution, must be prevented or reduced. Aligning government policies and priorities to ensure environmental goals aren’t undermined by economic and development interests is essential.

    A large increase in environmental spending – to at least 1% of the federal budget – is vital. It would ensure sufficient support for conservation progress and meeting legal requirements of the EPBC Act, including listing threatened species and designing and implementing recovery plans when required.

    Show nature the money!

    Neither major party has committed to substantial increases in environmental spending in line with what experts suggest is urgently needed.

    Without such increased investment Australia’s conservation record will almost certainly continue to deteriorate. The loss of nature hurts us all. For example, most invasive species not only affect biodiversity; they have major economic costs to productivity.

    Whoever forms Australia’s next government, we urge elected leaders to act on the wishes of 96% of surveyed Australians calling for more action to conserve nature.



    Read more:
    Protecting salmon farming at the expense of the environment – another step backwards for Australia’s nature laws

    Euan Ritchie receives funding from the Australian Research Council and the Department of Energy, Environment, and Climate Action. Euan is a Councillor within the Biodiversity Council, a member of the Ecological Society of Australia and the Australian Mammal Society, and President of the Australian Mammal Society.

    John Woinarski is a Professor at Charles Darwin University, a director of the Australian Wildlife Conservancy, co-chair of the IUCN Australasian Marsupials and Monotremes Specialist group, a councillor with the Biodiversity Council, and a member of the science advisory committee of Zoos Victoria and Invertebrates Australia. He has received funding from the Australian government to contribute to the management of feral cats and foxes.

    Martine Maron has received funding from various sources including the Australian Research Council, the Queensland Department of Environment and Science, and the federal government’s National Environmental Science Program, and has advised both state and federal government on conservation policy. She is a member of the Wentworth Group of Concerned Scientists, a director of the Australian Wildlife Conservancy, a councillor with the Biodiversity Council, and leads the IUCN’s thematic group on Impact Mitigation and Ecological Compensation under the Commission on Ecosystem Management.

    – ref. Australians want nature protected. These 3 environmental problems should be top of the next government’s to-do list – https://theconversation.com/australians-want-nature-protected-these-3-environmental-problems-should-be-top-of-the-next-governments-to-do-list-253336

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Supporting Survivors and Holding Abusers Accountable

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today recognized April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month in New York, issuing a statewide proclamation. This comes as the Governor made combatting sexual violence a top priority in her FY26 Budget, pushing to double funding for rape crisis programs and proposing a mandate that all hospitals provide access to trained sexual assault forensic medical examiners for victims and survivors. The Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence (OPDV) is also launching new initiatives to raise awareness about technology facilitated abuse and assault. This builds on Governor Hochul’s ongoing efforts to protect kids online and increase online safety for all New Yorkers, including through her Budget proposals to outlaw AI-Generated Child Sexual Abuse Material and require AI Companion companies to implement safety features to protect against self-harm.

    “Sexual violence is an issue that affects countless individuals and families across the State, and my Administration is dedicated to strengthening resources for survivors and expanding protections to keep New Yorkers safe,” Governor Hochul said. “By recognizing April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting survivors, holding perpetrators accountable, and preventing future harm, while ensuring that every New Yorker has access to the care and justice they deserve.”

    In honor of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, state landmarks will be illuminated in teal tonight, Tuesday, April 1, and again on Wednesday, April 30, for NYS Denim Day. The New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence (OPDV) also announced several new initiatives to help raise awareness, including the launch of an online Spot the Deepfake quiz, the launch of New York’s “Power DownSpeak Up” campaign, and the New York State Denim Day Exhibit to be held at the Empire State Plaza Concourse. Additionally, OPDV announced weekly “Sexual Violence 101” awareness trainings, which are open to the public.

    OPDV Executive Director Kelli Nichols Owens said, “Many cases of sexual, domestic, and other gender-based violence, now involve some form of technology facilitated abuse or attacks. Over the last two years we have been working to engage New Yorkers in the conversations around these personal safety issues and remain committed to supporting victims and survivors in survivor-centered, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive ways. We thank you, Governor Hochul, for your dedication to improving the lives of those affected by sexual assault, be it through education, direct services and support, prevention, or response.”

    OPDV’s Spot the Deepfake quiz is an online quiz designed to educate New Yorkers on how to spot AI-generated fake images. OPDV’s Spot the Deepfake quiz allows participants to examine pictures to determine if they are real or deepfake images. Individuals who take this quiz will receive a score at the end, as well as important information on how to differentiate AI-generated images from real ones.

    In March, OPDV launched the Statewide “Power Down, Speak Up” campaign, working to raise awareness and help protect New Yorkers from technology facilitated abuse, including sextortion, deepfakes, unauthorized location tracking, and online harassment. Join OPDV in powering down technology threats and speaking up for yourself by sharing Power Down, Speak Up posts on your social media.

    Finally, as part of an international movement to raise awareness about sexual assault, the New York State Denim Day Exhibit will be held April 28-April 30 at the Empire State Plaza Concourse. This exhibit is hosted by OPDV, in partnership with the NYS Office of General Services. The Denim Day movement started more than 25 years ago, after the Italian Supreme Court ruled that because a victim was wearing tight jeans, she must have helped the person who raped her remove them, implying consent. Following the ruling, women in the Italian Parliament wore jeans to work in solidarity with the victim.

    Protecting People Online
    As part of her ongoing leadership and commitment to protecting people and especially children online, this year Governor Hochul proposed updating the penal law to treat AI-generated child sexual abuse material as child pornography. Existing laws address traditional child pornography, but the emergence of easily accessible “undressing” apps and the misuse of generative AI highlight the need to strengthen and modernize these laws. Governor Hochul has also proposed legislation to require AI companionship companies to implement safety features to protect against self-harm and to remind users they are interacting with machines rather than humans. These steps aim to reduce risks and ensure safer interactions with AI companions, which are part of a rapidly developing and largely unregulated market where chatbots are designed to simulate human connection, remember personal details, and adapt their personality to user preferences to establish long-term relationships.

    Ensuring Child Victims of Crime Are Maximally Supported
    A child becoming the victim of a crime is every parent’s worst nightmare, especially when the crime is violent in nature. When that does happen, families must walk the difficult line of supporting the pursuit of justice while also protecting their young loved one from having to re-experience and relive the crime and trauma. Child Advocacy Centers provide a child-friendly, safe, supportive environment for child victims of abuse or neglect and crime. Children and their loved ones have access to victim advocacy, mental health support and specialized medical exams from a multi-disciplinary team of professionals. This year, Governor Hochul will double funding to the Child Advocacy Centers to ensure that as children receive services and support, they have one single advocate who works with them and their family through the entire process. This will ensure young victims of crime and their families are prepared and supported by the same trusted adult at every step in the process.

    State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “Sadly, too many individuals are coping with trauma because they have experienced sexual, domestic, and other gender-based violence. We must continue to have open and honest conversations and provide survivors with support and resources with empathy and compassion. I thank Governor Hochul for her unwavering commitment to giving survivors of domestic and sexual violence access to resources of healing and informing New Yorkers through education, prevention strategies, and response.”

    Office of Children and Family Services Commissioner Dr. DaMia Harris-Madden said, “In the United States, a sexual assault occurs, on average, every 68 seconds. The implications of this type of violence are felt physically, psychologically, emotionally, developmentally and financially, and underscore the substantial need to implement efficacious and assessable supports and safeguards. OCFS is proud to join Governor Hochul and the Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence in reinforcing New York State’s commitment to combatting sexual violence. OCFS is committed to prevention and support to survivors, through services at Child Advocacy Centers, which offer resources to children who have experienced assault; the Safe Harbour New York program and the EMPOWER program for youth who have been sexually trafficked; and working closely with local rape crisis programs, where appropriate, to support adults experiencing domestic violence. We will continue to message that survivors of sexual violence are never at fault and that New York State government will lend its resources to assisting survivors in their healing journey.”

    Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance Commissioner Barbara C. Guinn said, “We are grateful to Governor Hochul for making combatting sexual violence a top priority in her FY2026 Executive Budget and to all of our state and local partners for helping to raise awareness about sexual assault and honor survivors for their resiliency and strength. We are also grateful to OPDV for their dedication to supporting victims and survivors and for raising awareness about sexual assault through education and ongoing trainings.”

    Office of Victim Services Director Bea Hanson said, “Sexual assault survivors deserve to have all of the resources and support they need to help them heal. OVS is proud of the work we have done to improve tracking of forensic exam kits, covering medical costs and counseling for survivors, and raising funding caps and eliminating red tape for reimbursements of costs incurred as a result of crime. We thank Governor Hochul, who has consistently shown leadership and support for survivors, as well as OPDV, which provides critical resources and support.”

    New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services Commissioner Rossana Rosado said, “Survivors deserve support and compassion when they seek help from law enforcement. DCJS funds and supports police agencies, district attorneys’ offices, and service providers that engage with victims and survivors throughout the state, and work to ensure their rights should they wish to involve the justice system. We are proud to stand with Governor Hochul and our state and local partners to shine a light on sexual assault and provide the resources that survivors need to recover and heal.”

    Division of Criminal Justice Services
    New York State’s Domestic and Sexual Violence Hotline provides free, confidential support 24/7 and is available in most languages: 800-942-6906 (call), 844-997-2121 (text) or @ opdv.ny.gov (chat).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall Joins Judiciary Committee Chairman Grassley in Introducing Legislation to Stop Abuses of Federal Injunctions Against President Trump

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) joined Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and 20 of their Senate Republican colleagues in introducing the Judicial Relief Clarification Act of 2025 (JRCA). This legislation would end the practice of universal injunctions – which have been abused to prevent executive actions by President Donald Trump – in addition to clarifying the constitutional role of the judicial branch.
    The legislation would also limit the ability of lower courts to block legitimate executive action by issuing orders to nonparties to the lawsuit. In addition, JRCA would also make temporary restraining orders against the government immediately appealable, ensuring that prudence carries more weight than rash decisions handed down in the heat of a political moment.
    “Radical District Court Judges across the country are using, and in many cases abusing, universal injunctions to slam the brakes on President Trump’s America First Agenda – even though the American people overwhelmingly voted in support of it in November,” said Senator Marshall. “These injunctions are disruptive of the normal legal process and overstep judicial authority. It’s time to rein them in.”
    “For a number of years, but particularly in the last few months, we’ve increasingly seen sweeping orders from individual district judges that dictate national policy. Our Founders saw an important role for the judiciary, but the Constitution limits judges to exercising power over ‘cases’ or ‘controversies.’ Judges are not policymakers and allowing them to assume this role is very dangerous,” send Senator Grassley. “The Judicial Relief Clarification Act clarifies the scope of judicial power and resolves illegitimate judicial infringement upon the executive branch. It’s a commonsense bill that’s needed to provide long-term constitutional clarity and curb district courts’ growing tendency to overstep by issuing sweeping, nationwide orders.”
    The legislation is cosponsored by Senators John Barrasso (R-Wyoming), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee), Katie Britt (R-Alabama), Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), Bill Cassidy (R-Louisianna), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Steve Daines (R-Montana), Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina), Bill Hagerty (R-Tennessee), Jim Justice (R-West Virginia), John Kennedy (R-Louisiana), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), Ashley Moody (R-Florida), Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio), Eric Schmitt (R-Missouri), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina), and Tommy Tuberville (R-Alabama).
    Click HERE to read the full bill text.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Statement on organised immigration crime

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Government response

    Statement on organised immigration crime

    Statement from the representatives of the governments of Albania, China, Sweden, Tunisia, United Kingdom, United States and Vietnam.

    We, the representatives of the governments of Albania, China, Sweden, Tunisia, United Kingdom, United States, Vietnam, united as an international community in the fight against organised immigration crime (OIC), meeting within the framework of the Border Security Summit hosted by the United Kingdom, hereby affirm our collective responsibility to address the threat posed by organised criminal groups exploiting online platforms for the facilitation of irregular immigration including human trafficking.

    Acknowledging the scope of the threat

    We recognise the role that online platforms can play in the facilitation of OIC. Organised criminal groups are exploiting these platforms to advertise and facilitate illegal immigration services, generating illegal profits at the expense of vulnerable migrants. Inaccurate information is spread online, with claims to guarantee passage with shared ‘success stories’ of being able to remain in country despite illegal entry.

    These stories are shared despite the increasing risk of fatalities from clandestine entry by boats and lorries. As online platforms evolve, criminal networks adapt their methods, making a co-ordinated global response essential. We recognise the harm that irregular migration can cause nations’ citizens.

    Commitment to collective action

    The fight against OIC requires collaboration across borders, sectors, and jurisdictions to effectively counter the global scale of the threat. No single government can combat this threat alone. We call upon all governments, international organisations, and industry partners to join us in this endeavour to work together to prevent the misuse of online platforms for illegal immigration services.

    Disrupting the facilitation of OIC

    The online environment should not be permissive for immigration crimes.  We call on industry partners to design out from platforms opportunities for exploitation and to prevent the proliferation of glorifying illegal migration. Fatalities as a result of people smuggling are increasing globally and we must ensure those seeking illegal entry are aware of the grave risks.

    A collective responsibility to prevent exploitation

    We commit to strengthening our collective efforts to prevent, disrupt, and degrade the capacity of organised criminal groups to exploit online platforms for OIC. Online platforms should not enable facilitation of organised crime, and we are committed to working together to prevent this.

    International governments, industry partners, and international organisations should join forces in a global effort to stop criminals from exploiting online platforms.

    Platforms should invest in strong detection and moderation tools, while governments must back them with effective laws and international cooperation.

    Collaborative framework for action

    We commit to share trends in use of the online environment by organised criminal groups and the principle approaches for detecting and disrupting the facilitation of OIC online. Following this summit, the UK will provide opportunities for global collaboration, learning from the approach taken to other tech-enabled harms.

    Towards a secure digital environment for all

    Looking ahead, we recognise that addressing OIC in the digital age requires innovation, prevention, and sustained cooperation. Only through collective action can we prevent criminal groups from exploiting online platforms for irregular immigration. Together, we will work to ensure that online spaces remain secure and safe for everyone and do not provide the opportunity for people smuggling services to be advertised and accessed by vulnerable migrants.

    A call to action

    In conclusion, we call for ongoing dialogue and swift action to address the challenges posed by OIC online content and the threat it presents to the integrity of our borders. We reaffirm our commitment to a global response that prevents the exploitation of online platforms for criminal purposes.

    We call for global action to prevent the spread of OIC content and protect the integrity of online spaces. By acting decisively, we can safeguard vulnerable people and uphold the security of our collective borders.

    Updates to this page

    Published 1 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hinson, Cotton Introduce the RIFLE Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (IA-01)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-IA-02) and Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) introduced the Repealing Illegal Freedom and Liberty Excises (RIFLE) Act. Under current law, there is a $200 tax on the transfer and purchase of firearms regulated under the National Firearms Act. This legislation would remove the existing $200 tax on firearms sold to law-abiding gun owners. 

    “The Second Amendment is a Constitutional right that is not to be infringed. Law-abiding gun owners should not be forced to pay an unconstitutional firearm tax. This bill will remove unnecessary financial barriers on lawful gun owners from the antiquated 1934 National Firearms Act and protect the Second Amendment rights of Iowans and Americans.” – Congresswoman Ashley Hinson

    “Law-abiding Americans who exercise their Second Amendment rights should not be subject to unnecessary taxes and restrictions preventing them from doing so. Passed into law in 1934, the National Firearms Act needs to be amended. Our legislation will remove the red tape that places an undue financial burden on would-be gun owners.” – Senator Tom Cotton

    “The National Rifle Association applauds Representative Hinson’s leadership on the Second Amendment and her reintroduction of the RIFLE Act. This $200 punitive tax has only ever served as a financial barrier for law-abiding Americans to exercise their Second Amendment rights.” – John Commerford, Executive Director of NRA-ILA

    “The tax stamp requirement for firearms and suppressors listed as controlled items under the National Firearms Act was intended to suppress Americans’ desire to fully-exercise their Second Amendment rights. It was – and is – a ‘sin tax. However, there is no sin in exercising a Constitutionally-protected right. We appreciate the leadership of Representative Hinson and Senator Cotton to eliminate this tax that only serves as a barrier to law-abiding citizens keeping and bearing arms.” – Lawrence G. Keane, National Shooting Sports Foundation Senior Vice President and General Counsel

    Congresswoman Hinson introduced this bill alongside 27 original co-sponsors: Representatives Richard Hudson (NC-09), Jack Bergman (MI-01), Byron Donalds (FL-19), Claudia Tenney (NY-24), Randy Feenstra (IA-04), John Moolenaar (MI-02), Mark Amodei (NV-02), Scott Franklin (FL-18), Dan Newhouse (WA-04), Michael Rulli (OH-06), Clay Higgins (LA-03), Mike Collins (GA-10), Beth Van Duyne (TX-24), Glenn Grothman (WI-06), John McGuire (VA-05), Andy Harris (MD-01), Andy Barr (KY-06), Bob Onder (MO-03), Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03), Troy Downing (MT-02), Brad Finstad (MN-01), Julia Letlow (LA-05), Michael Cloud (TX-27), Tim Walberg (MI-05), Jodey Arrington (TX-19), Adrian Smith (NE-03), and Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01).

    Background:

    • Under current law, there is a $200 tax on the transfer and purchase of firearms regulated under the National Firearms Act (NFA).
      • According to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the $200 transfer tax was intended to “to curtail, if not prohibit, transactions” of firearms.
      • The federal government intentionally placed a financial barrier on the Second Amendment, discriminating against individuals based on their income.
    • The RIFLE Act would remove this infringing tax on firearms governed under the NFA, including short-barreled rifles and silencers.
      • This legislation would also ensure that pistols with stabilizing braces would not be subject to the $200 transfer tax.
      • This legislation does not modify any current background check provisions; it solely removes the federally-mandated financial burden on law-abiding gun owners.

    The bill was first covered by Breitbart News here. Full bill text can be found here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DRI Relays Inc. to Pay $15.7M to Settle False Claims Act Allegations Involving the Sale of Non-Military Grade Parts to Department of Defense

    Source: US State of California

    DRI Relays Inc. (DRI), a subsidiary of TE Connectivity Corporation (TEC), has agreed to pay $15.7 million to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by supplying military parts that did not meet military specifications, the Justice Department announced today.

    TEC acquired DRI in October 2020. DRI manufactures electrical relays and sockets for numerous military platforms and has manufacturing locations in Long Island, New York, and Bangalore, India. In January 2011, TEC disclosed to the Department of Defense that DRI had not conducted certain required tests on MIL-PRF-83536 relays and MIL-DTL-12883 sockets, and cooperated with the government’s investigation. The United States subsequently alleged that between 2015 and 2021, under various Department of Defense (DoD) contracts and subcontracts, DRI invoiced for military grade electrical relays and sockets when it knew those parts had not met the testing requirements to be deemed military grade.  

    “It is essential to the safety and operational readiness of our military that contractors comply with applicable military specifications,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Yaakov M. Roth of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “We will continue to hold accountable those who knowingly supply equipment to the U.S. military that fails to meet their contract obligations.”

    “Maintaining the integrity of the U.S. Department of Defense supply chain is a top priority for the DoD Office of Inspector General’s Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS),” said Special Agent in Charge Patrick J. Hegarty of the DCIS Northeast Field Office. “The DoD expects its suppliers to adhere to contract specifications and perform required testing on products sold to the U.S. military. We are committed to working with our law enforcement partners to investigate allegations of contractors failing to meet testing protocols and disclose product deficiencies.”

    “This settlement demonstrates the resolve of the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division (Army CID) and our law enforcement partners to ensure the integrity of the equipment and materiel procured or used by the United States Army,” said Special Agent in Charge Keith K. Kelly of the Department of the Army CID Fraud Field Office. “Failures to adhere to established standards when providing military parts can place our Soldiers at significant risk and adversely impact the Army’s warfighting capabilities.”

    This matter was handled by Senior Trial Counsel Art J. Coulter of the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section. DCIS, Army CID, and the Defense Contract Audit Agency assisted in this investigation.

    The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: ESET Transforms Cyber Threat Intelligence Offering with New Feeds and APT Report Tiers

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Initially developed for governments, Fortune 500 companies and critical infrastructure organizations, ESET Cyber Threat Intelligence has expanded offerings to provide actionable intelligence and address modern cybersecurity requirements faced by businesses of all sizes.
    • ESET offers 15 proprietary intelligence feeds and two sub-feeds, including ransomware, smishing, cryptoscams, IoCs, botnets, phishing URLs, and more.
    • ESET has also added two new APT report tiers to ensure organizations of all sizes and budgets can access these essential intelligence services.
    • ESET Cyber Threat Intelligence services are standalone, customizable, and able to be seamlessly integrated into multi-vendor security solutions.

    LAS VEGAS, April 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ESET, a global leader in cybersecurity solutions, has expanded its award-winning Cyber Threat Intelligence services, including new feeds and APT Report tiers. ESET’s offerings address modern cybersecurity needs with features like APT monitoring, threat hunting, and built-in AI that automates threat investigation. Announced at ESET World 2025 in Las Vegas, ESET enhanced its services to accommodate the requirements of companies of all sizes that now view threat intelligence as an essential component of a next-gen, prevention-focused cybersecurity stack.

    “ESET continues to expand its cyber threat intelligence offerings to accelerate incident response and reduce data breach impacts — delivering a holistic view of threat actors, attack vectors, indicators of compromise, and malware behavior,” said Juraj Malcho, Chief Technology Officer at ESET. “Because cyberattacks know no borders, many organizations mix and match multiple threat intelligence services to gain global visibility and leverage best-in-class capabilities. ESET’s renowned visibility across Europe and Asia gives organizations a distinct advantage in preempting sophisticated threat actors and safeguarding their critical assets.”

    New Feeds
    ESET has expanded its Cyber Threat Intelligence from eight to 15 threat feeds, delivering actionable, highly curated, metadata-rich, detailed data to defend against timely threats, including ransomware, malicious email attachments, cryptoscams, phishing URLs, smishing, SMS scams, and more. Quality is better than quantity in threat intelligence. Rather than struggling to sift through huge, noncurated external datasets, ESET telemetry is carefully deduplicated and delivered in real time — enabling threat analysts to act immediately and quickly identify emerging business risks and previously unknown threats.

    Additional APT Report Tiers
    ESET is enhancing its APT Reports to cover new tiers, extending this crucial intelligence to SMBs. The tailored formats cater to various organizational roles. SOC or threat analysts can use Technical Analysis reports and Activity Summary reports for in-depth details on attacks and post-compromise activity along with details about attacks, Indicators of compromise (IoCs), YARA rules, Snort rules, Shodan, Censys queries, and more. Beyond just IoCs, these reports provide context and expert advice. For high-level strategic intel, CISOs can refer to our Monthly Overviews or Digests.

    The APT Report Advanced and Ultimate tiers provide access to the ESET AI Advisor, a generative AI chatbot that addresses security inquiries, offers APT summaries, compiles IoCs and TTPs, and generates YARA rules for swift threat understanding and prevention. Leveraging ESET’s 20+ years of AI and ML expertise, AI Advisor enables security and intelligence leaders to better analyze and act upon emerging threats with SOC team-level advisory. Finally, organizations with the APT Report Ultimate tier gain access to ESET Analysts to directly resolve issues and collaborate directly with the company’s security threat hunters who are on the front lines.

    Integrations
    The development of ESET’s API gateway, ESET Connect, has enabled ESET to double down on integrations and ecosystem partners, which help customers to simplify cybersecurity management, increase visibility across a variety of attack surfaces, and bring industry leaders together under common architectures. ESET Cyber Threat Intelligence is highly interoperable and is already integrated with several key vendors, including Microsoft Sentinel, IBM QRadar, Elastic, MISP, Filigran’s OpenCTI, Threat Quotient, Stellar Cyber, and others.

    “ESET Cyber Threat Intelligence is built upon our greatest strength — ESET researchers working across 11 research and development centers worldwide,” said Jean-Ian Boutin, Director of ESET’s Threat Research. “ESET does not buy data from others; we generate it ourselves. Our primary source is the vast user base of ESET security solutions — over 110 million users in more than 190 countries. ESET telemetry samples undergo in-depth behavioral and structural analysis, yielding additional useful indicators that enrich our threat intelligence, thus providing a more comprehensive understanding of the threat landscape. By aligning with the MITRE ATT&CK framework, ESET threat intelligence users can operationalize their visibility and response.”

    Awareness and information sharing is critical in cybersecurity. ESET researchers have built a multilayered detection engine that processes more than 300,000 unique, new malware samples daily. Top research and discoveries are presented regularly at major global conferences like RSA, Black Hat, and ESET shares information on new threats and campaigns with the public and security enthusiasts via its industry-leading security blog, welivesecurity.com (cited by prominent media, such as BBC, CNBC, The Washington Post, Forbes, The Guardian, TechRadar, Wired, and more).

    For more details, visit the ESET Cyber Threat Intelligence page.

    About ESET
    ESET provides cutting-edge digital security to prevent attacks before they happen. By combining the power of AI and human expertise, ESET stays ahead of known and emerging cyber threats — securing businesses, critical infrastructure, and individuals. Whether it’s endpoint, cloud, or mobile protection, its AI-native, cloud-first solutions and services remain highly effective and easy to use. ESET technology includes robust detection and response, ultra-secure encryption, and multifactor authentication. With 24/7 real-time defense and strong local support, we keep users safe and businesses running without interruption. An ever-evolving digital landscape demands a progressive approach to security: ESET is committed to world-class research and powerful threat intelligence, backed by R&D centers and a strong global partner network. For more information, visit www.eset.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement From Governor Hochul on Broadcast Agreement

    Source: US State of New York

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    A ny.gov website belongs to an official New York State government organization.

    Secure ny.gov websites use HTTPS

    A lock icon or https:// means you’ve safely connected to a ny.gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

    You are leaving the official State of New York website.

    The State of New York does not imply approval of the listed destinations, warrant the accuracy of any information set out in those destinations, or endorse any opinions expressed therein. External web sites operate at the direction of their respective owners who should be contacted directly with questions regarding the content of these sites.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New Affordable Housing Coming to Westchester County

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced the start of construction for Station Plaza, a new affordable housing development in the village of Ossining, Westchester County. This transformative project will provide 108 affordable apartments, along with essential community facilities and commercial space, helping to revitalize the surrounding neighborhood and increase housing options in the area. Over the past five years, New York State Homes and Community Renewal has financed more than 5,000 affordable homes in Westchester County. Station Plaza continues this effort and complements Governor Hochul’s $25 billion five-year Housing Plan, which is on track to create or preserve 100,000 affordable homes statewide.

    “The solution to the housing crisis is simple — we have to build more housing,” Governor Hochul said. “Affordable, transit-oriented developments like Station Plaza in Westchester will unlock opportunities for generations of New Yorkers and create new pathways for families to thrive.”

    The $96 million project, led by WBP Development LLC, consists of an eight-story residential building with 108 units and a four-level detached parking garage. Each apartment will be designated for households earning at or below 80 percent of the Area Median Income, ensuring affordability for a diverse range of future residents.

    Station Plaza will feature modern amenities, including a roof deck, fitness facilities, free in-unit Wi-Fi, coworking spaces and a communal laundry area. The development will also include a 3,400-square-foot retail space, a 4,000-square-foot community facility and a 64,000-square-foot parking structure offering 195 spaces, 150 of which will be designated for tenants at no charge, with 45 reserved for public use. Additionally, the project will provide residents with access to a linear public park and an extension of the Sing Sing Kill Greenway.

    The development is a model of sustainability, incorporating high-performance building standards such as geothermal heating and cooling, ENERGY STAR appliances, a rooftop photovoltaic solar array and enhanced insulation exceeding code requirements. Eleven electric vehicle charging stations will be available for residents, with infrastructure in place for additional future installations. The project is expected to achieve Enterprise Green Communities Plus certification, further underscoring its commitment to environmental stewardship.

    Financing from HCR includes $57.2 million in tax exempt bonds, federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits that will generate $3.4 million in equity, $17.8 million from the New Construction Program and $4.9 million from the New York State Housing Trust Fund. Westchester County provided $4.4 million from its New Homes Land Acquisition program. The project also benefits from participation in the Department of Environmental Conservation’s Brownfield Cleanup Program, and upon successful completion of environmental cleanup work, could be eligible for $11 million for land remediation and redevelopment and $2.5 million in sustainability-focused equity in the form of tax credits to be issued by the New York State Department of Tax and Finance.

    New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “With Station Plaza, we are bringing more than 100 high-quality, energy-efficient apartments to a region in desperate need of more housing options. This $96 million investment exemplifies our mission to create affordable housing that not only serves individuals and families across New York but also strengthens neighborhoods and entire communities.”

    New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “New York State’s Brownfield Cleanup Program is a critical tool supporting community revitalization across the state. By cleaning up environmental pollution in communities like Ossining we can unlock investments in critical needs like affordable housing and give these sites new life. Once built, the Station Plaza project in Westchester County will be a prime example of how this successful cleanup program is helping advance Governor Hochul’s continued efforts to increase affordable, sustainable housing statewide while supporting DEC’s mission to protect public health and the environment.”

    U.S. Senator Charles Schumer said, “Every family in Westchester deserves a safe and affordable place to call home. I’m proud that the federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit that I worked hard to protect and expand has delivered millions to build over 100 new homes at Station Plaza in Ossining. High housing costs are a key driver of inflation so we must build more housing for working people to bring down those high prices. I applaud Governor Hochul’s work increasing access to affordable housing in Westchester and across New York, and I will continue working to deliver federal resources to ensure that every New Yorker has a roof over their heads.”

    State Senator Peter Harckham said, “The new Station Plaza development in Ossining will help meet the pressing need for housing within the financial reach of seniors on fixed incomes, working families and young professionals. A public-private partnership with commitments from Governor Hochul, local officials and a community-minded developer, this development is being built with geothermal heating and cooling—a model of sustainability and energy efficiency that will benefit residents for years to come.”

    Assemblymember Dana Levenberg said, “I am so excited that the Station Plaza project is getting underway. In addition to adding much needed housing, Station Plaza will also bring more retail, community space and vitality to an area that has suffered from underinvestment. Kudos to the Village of Ossining, Wilder Balter Partners, and New York State Homes and Community Renewal for coming together for this project, which will be transformative for this neighborhood and the area as a whole.”

    Ossining Mayor Rika Levin said, “I am excited at this public private enterprise which brings together the best of government practices aligned with private investment. The village of Ossining has long been considered one of the most affordable villages in Westchester. This affordable housing initiative at the waterfront continues to be in line with our focus on balancing development with the village’s capacity to support such growth for the benefit of businesses and residents. Of special note is the incorporation of state-of-the-art decarbonization elements for environmental sustainability, additional private and public parking, commercial retail space and community space, along with the extension of the unique Sing Sing Kill greenway.”

    President of WBP Development LLC William Balter said, “We are about our public private partnership with the village of Ossining, Westchester County and New York State that has allowed for this transformation redevelopment of a fallow brownfield site into mixed-income affordable housing, community space, neighborhood retail and a linear park connecting the downtown with the waterfront area of the village.”

    Governor Hochul’s Housing Agenda

    Governor Hochul is committed to addressing New York’s housing crisis and making the State more affordable and more livable for all New Yorkers. As part of the FY25 Enacted Budget, the Governor secured a landmark agreement to increase New York’s housing supply through new tax incentives for Upstate communities, new incentives and relief from certain state-imposed restrictions to create more housing in New York City, a $500 million capital fund to build up to 15,000 new homes on State-owned property, an additional $600 million in funding to support a variety of housing developments statewide and new protections for renters and homeowners. In addition, as part of the FY23 Enacted Budget, the Governor announced a five-year, $25 billion Housing Plan to create or preserve 100,000 affordable homes statewide, including 10,000 with support services for vulnerable populations, plus the electrification of an additional 50,000 homes. More than 55,000 homes have been created or preserved to date.

    The FY25 Enacted Budget also strengthened the Pro-Housing Community Program which the Governor launched in 2023. Pro-Housing Certification is now a requirement for localities to access up to $650 million in discretionary funding. Nearly 300 communities have been certified, including the Village of Ossining.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: DRI Relays Inc. to Pay $15.7M to Settle False Claims Act Allegations Involving the Sale of Non-Military Grade Parts to Department of Defense

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    DRI Relays Inc. (DRI), a subsidiary of TE Connectivity Corporation (TEC), has agreed to pay $15.7 million to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by supplying military parts that did not meet military specifications, the Justice Department announced today.

    TEC acquired DRI in October 2020. DRI manufactures electrical relays and sockets for numerous military platforms and has manufacturing locations in Long Island, New York, and Bangalore, India. In January 2011, TEC disclosed to the Department of Defense that DRI had not conducted certain required tests on MIL-PRF-83536 relays and MIL-DTL-12883 sockets, and cooperated with the government’s investigation. The United States subsequently alleged that between 2015 and 2021, under various Department of Defense (DoD) contracts and subcontracts, DRI invoiced for military grade electrical relays and sockets when it knew those parts had not met the testing requirements to be deemed military grade.  

    “It is essential to the safety and operational readiness of our military that contractors comply with applicable military specifications,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Yaakov M. Roth of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “We will continue to hold accountable those who knowingly supply equipment to the U.S. military that fails to meet their contract obligations.”

    “Maintaining the integrity of the U.S. Department of Defense supply chain is a top priority for the DoD Office of Inspector General’s Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS),” said Special Agent in Charge Patrick J. Hegarty of the DCIS Northeast Field Office. “The DoD expects its suppliers to adhere to contract specifications and perform required testing on products sold to the U.S. military. We are committed to working with our law enforcement partners to investigate allegations of contractors failing to meet testing protocols and disclose product deficiencies.”

    “This settlement demonstrates the resolve of the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division (Army CID) and our law enforcement partners to ensure the integrity of the equipment and materiel procured or used by the United States Army,” said Special Agent in Charge Keith K. Kelly of the Department of the Army CID Fraud Field Office. “Failures to adhere to established standards when providing military parts can place our Soldiers at significant risk and adversely impact the Army’s warfighting capabilities.”

    This matter was handled by Senior Trial Counsel Art J. Coulter of the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section. DCIS, Army CID, and the Defense Contract Audit Agency assisted in this investigation.

    The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Sobyanin explained how the new standard of emergency medical care works

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Moscow was the first in the country to develop and implement a new standard of emergency medical care. In the future, the capital will continue to improve the quality of emergency care and city hospitals. This in his telegram channel Sergei Sobyanin reported.

    “A great need for emergency medical care is a daily reality in the largest megacities. Moscow ambulance crews make about four million trips a year,” the Moscow Mayor noted.

    Source: Sergei Sobyanin’s Telegram channel @Mos_Sobyanin

    Every day, over a thousand ambulance crews are on duty in Moscow. Over a million emergency patients are admitted to the capital’s hospitals every year – this is 60 percent of all hospitalizations.

    The main elements of the new standard of emergency medical care are:

    — unified medical algorithms for each health worker for most cases of emergency care, a unified sequence of diagnostic procedures and manipulations;

    — professionalism in teamwork: high demands on the competencies of employees and a multidisciplinary approach to providing specialized assistance;

    — advanced digital solutions: digital integration with emergency services and city medical organizations, medical documents in electronic form in the unified medical information and analytical system (EMIAS) with round-the-clock access for doctors. Use of the digital triage system, thanks to which patients are distributed into streams depending on the priority of assistance (red, yellow and green);

    — a single standard of organization — new technological and logistical solutions: planning of admission departments and location of relevant services in such a way as to minimize the time from the patient’s admission to the start of providing assistance; organization of work on the principle of “doctor to patient”;

    — a unified standard for equipment.

    The focus is on the person. All processes — both technological and personnel — are built around the patient, medical personnel are focused on fighting for his health, and non-medical functions are performed by employees of public service centers and social coordinators. The new reception departments and flagship centers provide a single standard of customer service: comfortable waiting areas, cloakrooms, open-type counters, water coolers, examination rooms with curtains, lockers for personal belongings and personal hygiene items are equipped.

    “Thanks to the creation of new

    flagship centers and the transformation of existing admissions departments according to the new standard, all adult multidisciplinary hospitals in Moscow are currently operating,” added Sergei Sobyanin.

    Flagship centers have been opened at the V.V. Veresaev City Clinical Hospital, the N.V. Sklifosovsky Research Institute of Emergency Care, the O.M. Filatov City Clinical Hospital, the S.P. Botkin Moscow Multidisciplinary Scientific and Clinical Center, the N.I. Pirogov City Clinical Hospital, and the V.M. Buyanov City Clinical Hospital (the main work is being completed here).

    The medical institutions where the flagship centers are located were chosen to minimize travel time for emergency patients from any area. All of them provide assistance around the clock and every day. Almost all hospitals where flagship centers have been created have or will have helicopter pads to receive medical air transport in the near future.

    More than 10,000 units of the latest medical equipment were installed in the flagship centers, including expert-class CT, MRI and ultrasound machines, angiographs, hybrid systems for operating rooms, navigation systems, endoscopic and laboratory equipment, equipment for the resuscitation and intensive care department. In addition, about 60 operating rooms were deployed, including high-tech hybrid ones that have no analogues in Russia, for performing complex surgical, neurosurgical, vascular, traumatological and cardiac surgery. The capabilities for performing such operations have increased several times.

    Mobile medical equipment, including expert class equipment, for diagnostic rooms (for example, ultrasound and ECG machines), basic heavy medical equipment (including X-ray and CT machines), as well as red zone anti-shock rooms have appeared in the emergency departments of city hospitals.

    Since time is of the utmost importance when providing emergency care and delay can cost the patient his life, the Moscow ambulance service was digitalized and integrated with EMIAS, which significantly simplified the work of hospital doctors. As a result, the time from the patient’s admission to the initial examination by a specialist today does not exceed 20 minutes, and in emergency cases, only a few seconds pass between the patient’s admission and the provision of emergency resuscitation or surgical care. Thanks to the digital circuit, hospital doctors can see all the data about the patient and the medications prescribed to him in the system.

    Since the beginning of 2025, flagship centers and renovated emergency departments of Moscow hospitals have provided emergency care to more than 230 thousand people. Most patients were admitted in such areas as surgery (acute pancreatitis, appendicitis), neurosurgery (traumatic brain injury), traumatology (fractures) and urology (renal colic).

    Stages of emergency medical care

    Anyone can call 103 for emergency medical care. The response time to a call is three to four seconds. More than 60 specialists are on duty around the clock in the single city dispatch center, who not only take calls, but can also provide consulting assistance to the patient and determine whether he really needs a team or whether he needs to go to a medical institution on his own. The survey system with elements of artificial intelligence allows you to quickly determine a person’s condition and, if hospitalization is necessary, select the nearest specialized hospital in the shortest possible time.

    The provision of emergency medical care begins from the moment the team is dispatched to the call. At this stage, thanks to the connection of the ambulance team’s tablet to the EMIAS, doctors can already familiarize themselves with the patient’s data and plan the necessary actions in advance.

    Upon arrival at the scene, doctors examine the person, make a preliminary diagnosis and provide emergency care. If hospital care is required, the patient is taken to the nearest specialized medical facility, where he or she is provided hospital emergency care.

    Thanks to the new standard and digital technologies, these stages are now inextricably linked. After examination and emergency care, doctors enter the necessary patient data into the EMIAS via a tablet. In the case of hospitalization, the hospital medical staff, waiting for the team to arrive, sees all the information about the patient, including the examination results and preliminary diagnosis, and, if necessary, prepare the operating room and diagnostic equipment, and gather specialized specialists.

    When patients are admitted to the hospital admission department, they are sorted by priority of medical care using the “triage” system. Those who are assigned to the yellow and green streams are sent to diagnostic rooms, where all necessary tests are carried out to establish a diagnosis and determine the treatment tactics. Work in diagnostic rooms is built on the principle of “doctor to patient”. That is, most tests, primarily without the use of heavy equipment, are performed at the patient’s bedside.

    Red Stream patients who require emergency resuscitation or surgical care are immediately sent to the operating room or anti-shock room. Due to the fact that the resuscitation room and the angiographic operating room are located in close proximity to the ambulance entry vestibule, only a few seconds pass between the patient’s arrival and the provision of medical care.

    Flagship centers and all admission departments operate on the basis of large multidisciplinary hospitals, thanks to which, if necessary, the attending physician can involve surgeons, traumatologists and orthopedists, a gastroenterologist, cardiologist, neurologist, ENT doctor, urologist, gynecologist and other specialists.

    Overall, thanks to the introduction of the new standard, over several years the average speed of emergency care has increased by one and a half times, with 70 percent of patients receiving a full examination and diagnosis within two hours of admission.

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

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

    HTTPS: //vv.mos.ru/mayor/tkhemes/12565055/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Disarmament Architecture ‘at Risk of Collapse’, Secretary-General Warns Eminent Persons Group

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    Following is the text of UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ video message to the sixth meeting of the International Group of Eminent Persons for a World without Nuclear Weapons, held in Tokyo today:

    I am pleased to address you on your sixth, and final, meeting. You have carried out your work during a period of deepening geopolitical divisions.

    The nuclear threat is at heights not seen since the cold war — with escalating rhetoric and another nuclear arms race taking shape.

    Meanwhile, the international non-proliferation and disarmament architecture — so carefully constructed over decades — is at risk of collapse.

    Dialogue is sorely needed.  But talk is not enough.  We need solutions and action.  This is why your work over the past two years has been so important.

    You come from all parts of the world — including nuclear-weapon States and non-nuclear-weapon States.

    And you are united in your commitment to ensure that humanity walks a path towards a world without nuclear weapons.

    We are running out of time to make progress.  I look forward to your recommendations — and wish you every success in your final meeting.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Lauren Boebert Introduces Resolution Condemning Domestic Terrorist Attacks Against Tesla and Elon Musk

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Lauren Boebert (Colorado, 3)

    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Congresswoman Lauren Boebert (CO-04) introduced a House Resolution condemning the wave of domestic terrorism attacks targeting Tesla cars and dealerships. Since President Donald Trump tasked Elon Musk to lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), there has been a disturbing trend of attacks targeting Tesla cars and dealerships, including multiple attacks on the Loveland, CO Tesla dealership in Colorado’s 4th Congressional District.

    Rep. Boebert’s resolution is co-sponsored by Rep. Andy Biggs (AZ-05), Rep. Byron Donalds (FL-19), Rep. Brandon Gill (TX-26), Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (FL-13), Rep. Nancy Mace (SC-01), Rep. Barry Moore (AL-01), Rep. Troy Nehls (TX-22), Rep. Andy Ogles (TN-05), and Rep. Greg Steube (FL-17). 

    “The definition of terrorism is the unlawful use of violence and intimidation in the pursuit of political aims. That is exactly what has been going on across the country at Tesla dealerships, and it is what innocent Americans who chose Tesla as their preferred vehicle are facing in the wake of violence from Radical Left-Wing domestic terrorists who hate President Donald Trump and Elon Musk. 

    My House Resolution will make clear where all Members of Congress stand: do they condemn domestic terrorism against Tesla, or do they endorse it completely? The American people deserve to know where their representatives stand when it comes to condemning domestic terrorism,” said Congresswoman Boebert. 

    Full text of Rep. Boebert’s House Resolution can be found HERE. Additionally, exclusive coverage of the resolution by Fox News can be found HERE.

    Background:

    • Members of the Democrat Party have made calls for their supporters to incite and engage in domestic terrorism by attacking Tesla vehicles and facilities to protest Elon Musk.
    • Anti-Tesla incidents have happened in at least 9 States involving arson, gunfire, and vandalism.
    • At least 80 reported cases of vandalism or arson of Tesla vehicles have taken place throughout the United States and Canada.
    • At least 10 Tesla dealerships, charging stations, and facilities have been hit by vandals.
    • On February 11, 2025, in Loveland, Colorado, a man attacked a Tesla dealer on multiple occasions, including throwing Molotov cocktails and spray-painting words on vehicles and windows, including the word ‘‘Nazi.”
    • On March 2, 2025, in Washington, DC, 2 people defaced Tesla vehicles, twice writing political hate speech on the vehicles before fleeing.
    • On March 3, 2025, in Boston, Massachusetts, 7 Tesla charging stations in a mall outside the Massachusetts capital were set on fire.
    • On March 6, 2025, in Portland, Oregon, at least 7 gunshots were fired into a Tesla showroom in the middle of the night, windows were shattered, and 3 cars were damaged, and 1 bullet went through an office wall and into a computer monitor.
    • On March 7, 2025, in North Charleston, South Carolina, a 24-year-old man threw 5 Molotov cocktails at a Tesla charging station, and witnesses reported seeing a man spray-paint an expletive against Trump and ‘‘Long Live Ukraine’’ in red paint in the parking lot.
    • On March 7, 2025, in Loveland, Colorado, a man ignited an incendiary device and hurled it at a Tesla dealership, which landed between 2 cars and created a fire that put lives at risk, and rocks were also thrown, damaging both the building and multiple vehicles.
    • On March 18, 2025, in Las Vegas, Nevada, a person dressed in black shot at Tesla cars at a repair shop and ignited 2 of them with Molotov cocktails, and the word ‘‘Resist’’ was spray-painted on the front doors of the shop.
    • On March 24, 2025, the Austin police discovered multiple incendiary devices that had been placed at a Tesla showroom in Austin, Texas.

    ### 

    For updates, subscribe to Congresswoman Boebert’s newsletter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Road improvements support booming agrifood sector

    [. By improving transportation infrastructure, these corridors help make Alberta’s agricultural products more competitive globally, enhance supply chain efficiency and support rural development.

    Alberta’s government is providing $1.8 million for a new road connection between Highway 873 and the JBS Food plant. Providing an alternative access to and from the JBS Food plant will improve safety and efficiency for thousands of County of Newell residents while also saving workers up to an hour and a half a day getting to and from the plant. 

    “JBS Foods Canada employs thousands of Brooks residents, helping grow the local economy, create jobs and strengthen communities. This investment will create a better road connection between the JBS Foods Plant to Highway 873, making the commute shorter and safer and cutting up to an hour and half off the time it takes workers at the plant to get to and from work so they can spend less time stuck in traffic and more time doing other things.”

    Danielle Smith, Premier

    “The City of Brooks and the County of Newell continue to grow and the recent announcement of the JBS Foods expansion has solidified this region’s position as a growing agrifood economic powerhouse. Sustaining this growth requires robust transportation infrastructure.”

    Devin Dreeshen, Minister of Transportation and Economic Corridors

    “The County of Newell is pleased with the announcement of funding for Township Road 192 North and Highway 873. Completion of this project will improve safety and reduce travel times for staff and motorists accessing the JBS Foods Canada plant and other local businesses and residences in the area. We thank the Government of Alberta for recognizing the need for this project and the positive impact it will have for motorists and the local economy.”

    Arno Doerksen, reeve, County of Newell

    A new road directly connecting to Highway 873 will make traffic flow more efficiently in this area while also improving safety and reducing the potential for collisions with larger commercial trucks. The project includes road construction and intersection improvements. Design has been completed, with a construction tender expected this spring.

    “The new JBS road is important for the whole community and the safety of the workers at JBS Foods. These investments will foster stronger communities, create jobs and grow the local economy.”

    Joel Goodnough, city councillor, City of Brooks

    “This access road will significantly improve the quality of life for our team members in Brooks in many ways, ranging from child care to transportation costs to safety. I want to personally thank our Premier, Danielle Smith, for her exceptional leadership and support to make this project a reality.”

    Celio Fritche, president, JBS Foods Inc.

    The City of Brooks and the surrounding area continue to grow and diversify with the expansion of JBS Foods Canada Inc. The facility, which employs about 3,200 people, announced a $90-million expansion of its storage and distribution facilities in June 2024. The meat processing plant is one of the largest beef processing plants in Canada and has been in operation for the last 50 years, most recently under the ownership of JBS Foods Canada Inc. (since 2013).

    Quick facts

    • The County of Newell will receive a total of $1.8 million:
      • $1.2 million in Strategic Transportation Infrastructure Program (STIP) funding for local road improvements
      • $600,000 to deliver the improvement on the provincial intersection at Highway 873 for Transportation and Economic Corridors (TEC)
    • The County of Newell will deliver the project.
    • Design has been completed. Construction is anticipated to get underway in this spring and be completed by fall 2025.
    • About 8,500 vehicles use Highway 1 in this area, daily.
    • About 5,500 vehicles use Highway 873 in this area, daily.

    Related information

    • Strategic Transportation Infrastructure Program

    Multimedia

    • Watch the news conference

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Multi-Million Dollar Money Laundering Conspiracy Leader Pleads Guilty

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Baltimore, Maryland – Today, Adanegbe Gift Osenmwenkhae (Gift), 39, of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, pled guilty to serving as manager and supervisor of a large, multi-member, money laundering conspiracy. The group laundered more than $20 million in fraudulent proceeds.

    Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the guilty plea with Special Agent in Charge Michael McCarthy, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Baltimore; Special Agent in Charge Kareem A. Carter, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), Washington, D.C. Field Office; Acting Special Agent in Charge George Golliday, Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Inspector General (EPA-OIG); and Special Agent in Charge Ken DeChellis, Department of Defense, Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service – Cyber Field Office (DCIS).

    According to the plea agreement, beginning in 2021, and continuing into February 2024, Gift conspired with Yahya Sowe, aka “Cash,” Gedeon Agbeyome, Victor Killen, Areal Harris, Bright Boateng, Faizou Gnora, Emily Gil Arias, Fatoumata Boiro, Lawrence Ogunsanwo, Lakeisha Parker, Martin Ogisi, Blondel Ndjouandjouaka, Kevin Colon, Lorena Perez Herrera, and others to launder proceeds of a large-scale wire fraud. The co-conspirators engaged in various financial transactions to conceal the nature, location, source, ownership, and control of the wire-fraud proceeds, while carrying out the wire-fraud schemes. 

    Gift supervised and exercised significant managerial control over the money laundering conspiracy and facilitated the laundering of more than $20 million in stolen proceeds from at least 15 different victims.  Victims included government agencies, organizations, and companies, including an environmental trust, urban redevelopment program, medical center, transportation and logistics company, school district, college, and county government, among others.  

    According to the plea agreement, Gift used and controlled several different encrypted electronic communication accounts to supervise and manage the money laundering conspiracy. As supervisor, Gift directed and worked with members of the conspiracy to create limited liability companies to serve as shell entities; open bank accounts and/or cause bank accounts to be opened in the name of their shell entity; and receive and launder fraud proceeds. Additionally, Gift helped coordinate the flow of fraudulent proceeds through various bank accounts and determine how to split funds between each member of the conspiracy as payment for their role in the conspiracy.

    Gift is facing a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison. A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. U.S. District Judge Matthew J. Maddox has scheduled sentencing for June 30, 2025, at 10 a.m.

    U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the HSI led Document and Benefit Fraud/Mid-Atlantic El Dorado Task Force, IRS-CI, EPA-OIG, and DCIS for their work in the investigation and recognized the Anne Arundel County, Prince George’s County, and Montgomery County Police Departments for their assistance.  Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Harry M. Gruber, Bijon A. Mostoufi, and Jared M. Beim, who are prosecuting the federal case, and Paralegal Specialist Joanna B.N. Huber for her assistance.

    For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit www.justice.gov/usao-md and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: President Trump’s Peace Through Strength Is Correcting Course, Driving Results

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    After four years of foreign policy failures, President Donald J. Trump and his administration have made tremendous progress in restoring safety and security at home and abroad by implementing Peace through Strength. All we really needed was a new president.
    After President Trump demanded action, Mexico committed 10,000 of its own troops to our southern border and Canada deployed 10,000 of its own personnel to our northern border to help stem the flow of illegal immigration and illicit fentanyl into our country.
    President Trump designated deadly drug cartels and vicious transnational gangs as Foreign Terrorist Organizations, empowering law enforcement to make enormous progress arresting and deporting these violent terrorists.
    President Trump forced Colombia, Venezuela, and other countries to accept repatriation flights for their own citizens who were illegally in the U.S.
    President Trump’s unprecedented effort to secure the homeland has driven illegal border crossings to historic lows — down 95% over last year.
    President Trump provided key intelligence to the Pakistani government, which led to the arrest and extradition of the ISIS terrorist who orchestrated the deadly Abbey Gate bombing.
    President Trump increased U.S. counterterrorism activities and eliminated dozens of hardened terrorists — including a high-ranking ISIS attack planner in Somalia.
    President Trump reimposed maximum pressure on the Iranian regime to reign in their nuclear ambitions and support for terrorism across the Middle East.
    President Trump ordered strikes against Houthi terrorists, which have overwhelmed their leaders and networks and taken away their capabilities — not stopping “until they are no longer a threat to Freedom of Navigation.”
    President Trump’s pressure led Panama to exit China’s Belt and Road Initiative, a debt-trap diplomacy scheme the Chinese Communist Party uses to gain influence over developing nations — a massive milestone as the U.S. seeks to secure the Western Hemisphere from Chinese influence.
    President Trump’s leadership has secured the release of 39 U.S. citizens detained abroad — compared to just 80 citizens released across Biden’s four years in office.
    President Trump brokered a temporary ceasefire in Gaza to ensure the release of hostages, including an American citizen — a deal Biden was unable to secure.
    For the first time in three years, President Trump brought both Ukraine and Russia to the negotiating table for serious discussions around a peaceful resolution — engagements that continue in earnest.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Minister Meth hands over R514m contract to 15 LAP partners

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Employment and Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth, has officially handed over R514 million in contracts to 15 Labour Activation Programme (LAP) partner companies in Mpumalanga, aimed at stimulating job creation in the province. 

    The 15 LAP partner companies are expected to provide training to over 9 600 job seekers after signing a pledge committing to the absorption of these jobseekers in key sectors of the economy. 

    Speaking at the handover event held at Mbombela Stadium on Monday, Meth said the handover is not just about launching projects but also igniting opportunities that will reach thousands of individuals, uplift families, and strengthen communities. 

    “We are investing not just in businesses, but in people, skills, and making dreams that deserve to be realised a possibility. This is what real economic transformation looks like – not just numbers on a page, but real impact on the lives of those who call Mpumalanga home,” the Minister said.

    The Minister said that the partners whom the contracts have been handed over to have been given a condition to guarantee jobs for beneficiaries.

    “I have made it a requirement that all the LAP partners recruit at least 70% of the beneficiaries from the Employment Services of South Africa (ESA) platform, which is a government system placed to connect job seekers with available opportunities,” she said. 

    She moved to highlight that Mpumalanga is a province of movement, boasting infrastructure that connects the nation to greater possibilities. It is home to one of the most important economic corridors, the Maputo Corridor, a vital route that links us to the Port of Maputo and connects South Africa to the rest of the world. 

    “Through this corridor, we export our agricultural produce, our minerals, and our manufactured goods, which fuel the country’s economy. It is this very corridor that has the power to transform small businesses into major players, to take local industries and give them a global footprint,” she said. 

    The Minister also noted that approximately 1 million young South Africans become available to the labour market. However, only 400 000 find steady work, 300 000 find some work, while about 300 000 never find work. 

    She stressed that without decisive and intentional interventions from the government, in collaboration with relevant societal partners, the situation is unlikely to improve. 

    Young people continue to face challenges in entering the labour market due to a lack of work experience, and in some cases, possessing skills that do not align with market demands.

    “It is for this reason I emphasise that our response must be decisive, and I dare say – aggressive.

    “I am pleased and equally excited that today, at this municipality of Mbombela we gather to handover the Labour Activation Program contracts to 15 partners, who will create job opportunities for 9 616 beneficiaries to the value of over R514 million across 4 districts and spanning to over 11 local municipalities,” the Minister said. 

    The Minister said the Labour Activation Program is the department’s direct policy response to unemployment, affording job seekers opportunities to improve their employability and connect them to the world of work. 

    “Our focus should combine skills training, work experience, and job placement services to help participants transition into the labour market. 

    “With these projects, we are saying to the people of Mpumalanga: we see you, we believe in you, and we are committed to your success. We are saying to the youth that there is space for you in this economy, that your talents and skills are needed, as the future belongs to you. We are saying to businesses that you are not alone, the government is here to support you and to open doors to break down barriers that have held back growth for too long,” the Minister said. 

    The Minister added that government is strengthening private sector partnerships to collaborate in creating more job opportunities and ensure training programs are relevant to industry needs. 

    “We need every South African to believe in the power of collective action. This drive grew stronger after President Ramaphosa established an Inter-Ministerial Committee of government and business partnership on unemployment, skills development and SMME support, which is chaired by me as the Minister of the Department of Employment and Labour.

    “Throughout this partnership, our targeted interventions for groups disproportionately affected by unemployment, such as youth, women and people with disabilities remain our priority.

    “Let us continue working together to build a better country- collectively working together, we can change the trajectory of unemployment,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Conference places the spotlight on ocean sustainability 

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    As the current holder of the G20 Presidency, South Africa is leading global efforts for ocean sustainability, particularly focusing on advancing sustainable ocean initiatives in Africa.

    The country is hosting the 14th International Conference on Southern Hemisphere Meteorology and Oceanography (ICSHMO), which is currently underway in Cape Town. 

    This premier scientific gathering, being held in Africa for the first time since 1997, brings together renowned meteorologists, oceanographers, and climate scientists to address the unique atmospheric and oceanic challenges of the southern hemisphere.

    The five-day event, which kicked off on Monday, is hosted by the National Research Foundation (NRF) through the South African Environmental Observation Network, with support from the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI). 

    The conference shows South Africa’s growing influence in global climate science.

    Opening the conference, the Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Nomalungelo Gina, emphasised the urgent need for scientific collaboration to combat the escalating threats of climate change.

    “The world is experiencing intensified heatwaves, prolonged droughts, rising sea levels, and extreme weather events that disrupt economies, displace communities, and strain infrastructure,” the department said. 

    South Africa has witnessed the devastating impact of climate change in repeated floods and recurring droughts. 
    These events highlight the pressing need for enhanced climate prediction, risk management, and adaptation strategies, all key topics at ICSHMO 2025.

    The Deputy Minister stressed the importance of turning scientific knowledge into tangible, actionable solutions. 
    Through the NRF, the country continues to support cutting-edge research in marine and coastal science, weather forecasting, and climate adaptation, to inform global policy and action.

    Gina welcomed the integration of ICSHMO with the Ocean20 initiative, a flagship programme introduced under Brazil’s G20 Presidency, which is designed to promote sustainable ocean governance, and reiterated South Africa’s commitment to leveraging science, technology, and innovation for sustainable development.

    The Deputy Minister stressed the importance of equitable access to artificial intelligence, big data and remote sensing technologies, which were transforming climate science, enabling more accurate forecasting, early warning systems, and disaster preparedness. 

    Collaboration and knowledge-sharing were key to building a more stable and resilient global future, especially for nations that were most vulnerable to climate change.

    A group of learners from Luhlaza and Usasazo high schools in Khayelitsha attended the conference and had a special interaction with Gina on the benefits of science for society.

    During the opening session, Kenya’s representative for the United Nations’ Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, Patricia Nying’uro, highlighted the critical role of indigenous knowledge in promoting sustainability. She stated that the extensive knowledge accumulated by indigenous communities over centuries should be utilized to enhance climate action efforts.

    NRF CEO, Dr Fulufhelo Nelwamondo, said the conference would provide a vital platform for advancing scientific collaboration, sharing cutting-edge research, and addressing the pressing challenges of climate variability and change in the southern hemisphere.

    “The insights and discussions over the next few days will undoubtedly contribute to shaping policies and strategies that enhance climate resilience in our region and beyond,” he stated. – SAnews.gov.za
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: eThekwini Municipality commits to address Public Protector concerns 

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The eThekwini Municipality Executive Committee (EXCO) has affirmed its commitment to address concerns raised by Public Protector, Advocate Kholeka Gcaleka, following a special meeting held at Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban, on Monday.

    The engagement formed part of the Public Protector’s ongoing strategic stakeholder outreach, which seeks to forge a robust collaborative framework to resolve outstanding matters and reinforce the existing memorandum of understanding between the municipality and the Public Protector’s Office.

    This as Gcaleka presented a detailed assessment revealing that 29 formal complaints were lodged against the municipality. The complaints highlighted concerns, including allegations of maladministration, undue delays, abuse of power, improper prejudice, and critical service delivery failures.

    “Our Office has identified systemic issues that demand urgent attention. The complaints we have received reflect a profound erosion of public trust, stemming from persistent service delivery breakdowns and administrative shortcomings. This meeting is a critical step towards rectifying these issues through enhanced collaboration and stringent implementation of remedial actions,” Gcaleka said.

    In response to the Public Protector’s assessment, eThekwini Mayor, Cyril Xaba emphasised the council’s commitment to take immediate and decisive action.

    Xaba commended the proactive engagement and pledged the council’s full cooperation to address the issues raised.

    “We will immediately convene a dedicated session to rigorously review the existing memorandum of understanding and will develop comprehensive action plans to address each identified issue. This process will ensure the Public Protector’s investigations are expedited and that tangible, measurable improvements are implemented without delay,” said the mayor.

    City Manager, Musa Mbhele echoed the mayor’s commitment, stressing that the concerns raised by the Public Protector are being taken seriously.

    “We are actively implementing strategic plans to rectify these deficiencies. Crucially, the proposed new municipal organogram will establish a dedicated office to manage and promptly address all concerns raised by Chapter 9 institutions, including the Human Rights Commission and the Special Investigating Unit (SIU).

    “This will guarantee a streamlined, efficient, and transparent process for handling all complaints and inquiries. The Municipality acknowledges the urgent need to restore public confidence and will ensure that this engagement marks the beginning of a sustained and rigorous effort to deliver accountable, efficient, and effective governance,” Mbhele said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Ramokgopa announces Independent Transmission Programme

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, has announced that government will pursue private investment for the construction of transmission lines through the Independent Transmission Programme (ITP).

    The Minister made the announcement of the new programme during a media briefing, held in Pretoria, on Tuesday.

    During the briefing, Ramokgopa touted the pilot programme for the ITP which will pave the way to the construction of 1 164 kilometres (km) of new transmission lines, designed to support renewable energy projects.

    “Our renewable energy assets are not fully exploited as a result of the constraints on the transmission side. The Eskom balance sheet and the sovereign balance sheet is not sufficient to carry the kind of investments that are required in this space.

    “In terms of the transmission development plan…we will need modernise and expand transmission by about 14 000km and for us to be able to do this, we need about R440 billion. The State is not in a position to provide that kind of support. So, today we are introducing the independent transmission programme,” Ramokgopa said.

    He said a ministerial determination has been issued to create a “dispensation that allows for private sector participation”.

    “Our view is that there’s a need for us to be able to ensure that we are able to accelerate and support transmission infrastructure development. The transmission development plan does say that we need this 14 000km of new lines to be able to unlock the capacity, especially in the cape provinces.

    “That is where we have the most efficient and reliable energy assets in the form of solar and wind, but we have exhausted all of the transmission that allows us to evacuate the electrons so that the economy can benefit from those assets,” the Minister said.

    Ramokgopa added that the procurement of transmission will be done in the most cost-effective way, while regulations will be issued this Thursday.

    “The Ministry is the one mandated to procure and then the NTCSA [National Transmission Company of South Africa] is the party that buys that. We are going to ensure that we procure the most cost-effective and tendering procedures that are fair, competitive and equitable.

    “The requirement for the ITP pilot has to be consistent with transmission development plan and it must also support the IRP [Integrated Resource Plan]. It must [also] be commercially viable,” Ramokgopa said.

    It is envisioned that with the new transmission lines, at least 3000 megawatts (MW) of energy will be added to the grid.

    “The new generation capacity that we are going to unlock as a result of this intervention is 3 222 MW. It is about 63% of the total capacity of Medupi and Kusile [power stations]. We are moving in the right direction.

    “For the South African economy to grow, we need to unshackle the issues of the structural constraints, which is electricity and the inefficiencies in the logistics side. The second is greater investment by the private sector. Electricity gives us a pristine opportunity to transform the economy [and] grow the economy,” he said.

    A Request for Qualification will be issued in July while a Request for Proposals will be issued in November. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: BMA reflects on progress made since its establishment 

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    BMA reflects on progress made since its establishment 

    While challenges remain, progress has been made in strengthening South Africa’s border management systems, Commissioner of the Border Management Authority (BMA), Dr Michael Masiapato, said on Tuesday.

    “Beside the administrative successes relating to the establishment of the new organisation, there are operational successes, worth mentioning,” he said.

    Some of the successes since the authority’s establishment in April 2023, include intercepting stolen vehicles. The authority also successfully managed the movement of heads of state and government technocrats from all over the world as well as a higher number of journalists for the BRICS Summit that the country hosted in August 2023. 

    “We were able to apprehend or arrest over 468 000 individuals who were attempting to enter the country illegally since 1 April 2023,” he said, adding that 2 344 wanted criminals were also arrested. 

    Additionally, over 262 explosives used in the explosion of rocks during illegal mining operations and the blowing up of cash-in-transit vehicles were also confiscated.

    “The establishment of the BMA sought to create a single authority to effect border law enforcement with a single command and control. Contrary to what some people consider to be the functions of the Border Management Authority, our function is not just about stamping passports at the ports of entry,” Masiapato said.

    The Commissioner was speaking at the High-Level Colloquium on Migration, in Pretoria.

    He said the BMA exists to secure South Africa’s borders and concurrently facilitate legitimate movement of people and goods in all ports of entry and border law enforcement areas. The BMA Act provides for the BMA to collaborate with relevant stakeholders in executing its border law enforcement functions in the Ports of Entry and the Border Law Enforcement areas.

    “The Border Management Authority plays a crucial role in facilitating the smooth movement of people, goods, and services across borders while ensuring the safety and security of the country,” he said.

    The authority also works to prevent the introduction of invasive species, pests and diseases that can harm the environment and ecosystem.

    “We also ensure that all imports and exports comply with environmental regulations, such as the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). The BMA also monitors the movement of hazardous waste across borders to prevent illegal dumping and ensure compliance with international regulations.

    “We also inspect food and water imports to ensure they meet international health standards and regulations. We also monitor the movement of vectors, such as mosquitoes and ticks, to prevent the spread of vector-borne diseases,” the Commissioner explained.

    He told those attending the colloquium that the authority is most known for its immigration function.

    “In this regard, the BMA inspects travel documents, such as passports and visas, to ensure they are authentic and valid. We also monitor the movement of people to ensure compliance with immigration regulations and laws,” he said.

    In the last 24 months, the BMA has screened millions of travellers for infectious and communicable diseases and “those we picked up with diseases have been referred to medical facilities for further medical attention.”

    Masiapato said despite the achievements, challenges exist.

    “Illegal migration, human trafficking and transnational organised crime continue to pose serious threats to our national security and public safety,” he said.

    In June 2013, Cabinet made the decision to establish a Border Management Agency under the guidance of the Department of Home Affairs.

    President Cyril Ramaphosa launched the Border Management Authority on 5 October 2023, in Musina, Limpopo. – SAnews.gov.za

    Edwin
    Tue, 04/01/2025 – 14:29

    299 views

    MIL OSI Africa –