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Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Trump’s changing stance on Epstein files is testing the loyalty of his Maga base

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Robert Dover, Professor of Intelligence and National Security & Dean of Faculty, University of Hull

    During his 2024 US presidential election campaign, Donald Trump repeatedly said he would declassify and release the files related to Jeffrey Epstein, the disgraced financier who died in prison in 2019 while awaiting his sex trafficking trial.

    The so-called Epstein files are thought to contain contacts, communications and – perhaps most crucially – flight logs. Epstein’s private aircraft was the means by which to visit what has been later termed “paedophile island”, where he and his associates allegedly trafficked and abused children.

    Conspiracy-minded Trump supporters, many of whom believe Epstein was murdered by powerful figures to cover up their roles in his child sex crimes, think the Epstein files will provide them with a who’s who of the supposed elites involved in child-sex exploitation.

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    During his campaign, Trump hinted that the Epstein files would compromise powerful people – suggesting he knew their identities and what they had done. It was simultaneously a warning shot to these individuals and a way to energise his “Make America Great Again” (Maga) support base. It also validated part of the so-called QAnon conspiracy theory around a “deep-state” cover-up of an elite child sex abuse network.

    But the justice department recently announced that its review of these papers revealed no client list of politically important men, and also that Epstein had died by suicide. This struck down two of the most important beliefs of Trump’s base. For a large section of the Maga movement, this somewhat dull set of conclusions has felt like a betrayal.

    Musk smells opportunity

    Trump’s former close ally, funder and adviser, Elon Musk, has used the Epstein files imbroglio to go on the attack via social media. Musk has, without offering evidence, repeatedly insinuated that Trump’s name is in the files. Trump has responded by accusing Musk of “losing his mind” and used evidence from Epstein’s former lawyer, David Schoen, to refute Musk’s accusations.

    Musk’s allegations could be toxic for Trump. A good portion of the Maga movement think the QAnon conspiracy has some truth to it. So being potentially tied to a child sex exploitation ring would damage Trump’s reputation with his base on a subject they care about strongly. Musk has caused some Maga activists to wonder if Trump is part of a cover up.

    The Maga base largely remains loyal to Trump. But this loyalty has required considerable pragmatism since Trump was reelected. A key position supported by Maga voters, Trump’s opposition to foreign military adventures, was reversed by his attack on Iranian military sites in June.

    Maga-aligned spokespeople justified these actions on the grounds they were limited and a response to exceptional provocation. They are portrayed as a counterpoint to the near open-ended commitment of former US president George Bush in Afghanistan and Iraq in the early 2000s.

    Further Maga pragmatism has been required over the so-called Big Beautiful Bill Act, which will add trillions of US dollars to national debt, as well as the cuts to healthcare and food stamp funding. These latter actions have removed coverage and aid from a good portion of Maga-aligned voters.

    Despite the personal financial pain, Maga loyalists have couched their support in terms of reducing waste and shrinking the size of the government. These loyalists have faith in Trump’s word that they will ultimately not be disadvantaged – though the implementation phase will be the test of this.

    Trump has also stretched the patience and loyalty of corn farmers in mid-western states, a natural base for him. He has called for Coca-Cola to use cane sugar rather than corn syrup in the full-sugar version of its drink. Trump and his controversial health secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr, have argued that cane sugar is healthier – which is open to question – and will “make America healthy again”.

    While the question of which sweetener is used in Coke is marginal, supporting something that damages mid-western farmers will be difficult for Maga loyalists to reconcile. In having to find a way of overcoming the tensions in the policy, they may begin to question Trump’s wisdom.

    A Trump supporter sporting a red ‘Keep America Great’ hat at a rally in Des Moines, Iowa.
    Aspects and Angles / Shutterstock

    The arguments surrounding the Epstein files might be uniquely dangerous for Trump and his relationship with his Maga base. The QAnon paedophile ring conspiracy is core to a great number of Maga loyalists, and Trump was their man to reveal “the truth”.

    But the justice department has now effectively rejected that part of their world view. And the response of some has been to question whether Trump is also part of a cover up.

    Worse still, Trump has gone on the attack. He has said the Epstein conspiracy was never real and has described some of his supporters as “gullible weaklings” for continuing to believe in it. For some supporters this has been too much, and they have aired their frustration on Trump’s Truth Social media platform as well as on right-leaning blogs and podcasts.

    Trump has begun to soften his critique of those believing in the Epstein conspiracies, saying he would want to release any credible information. He has also returned to a campaigning tactic of whataboutery, pointing at what he says is the unfair treatment he receives compared to his predecessors Barack Obama and Joe Biden.

    The Epstein files episode might well pass. But the question of whether Maga is now bigger than Trump will not. For a president who once joked that his support was so strong he “could stand in the middle of Fifth Avenue and shoot somebody” without losing voters, the loyalty and pragmatic flexibility of his supporters is important.

    Maga is not a uniform group in belief or action. But if Trump loses either the loyalty of some or they refuse to flex their beliefs as they have done before, it will be politically dangerous for him. From beyond the grave, Epstein might have helped begin a new era in American politics.

    Robert Dover 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. Trump’s changing stance on Epstein files is testing the loyalty of his Maga base – https://theconversation.com/trumps-changing-stance-on-epstein-files-is-testing-the-loyalty-of-his-maga-base-261406

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Bosnia and Herzegovina in crisis as Bosnian-Serb president rallies for secession

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Birte Julia Gippert, Reader in International Relations, University of Liverpool

    The country of Bosnia and Herzegovina is embroiled in a crisis that may affect its political future and the stability of the western Balkans. Recent events in the bitterly divided country read a little like a spy novel. But the tensions that threaten three decades of tenuous peace since the region was torn apart by ethnic strife in the 1990s are only too real.

    On February 26, 300 armed Hungarian police officers in civilian clothes crossed into Republika Srpska without approval from the Sarajevo state government. Republika Srpska is one of the two territorial entities that make up Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Hungarian police were there, ostensibly, to train local police.

    But they were reportedly sent to be ready to extract Republika Srpska president, Milorad Dodik, who had the same day been convicted by a Bosnian court for “separatist actions”. These included suspending rulings of the Bosnian constitutional court and refusing to publish decisions by the Bosnian high representative, which prevents them from becoming law in contravention of Bosnia’s constitution.

    He was sentenced to 12 months in prison and handed a six-year ban from all political activities. Within days of the verdict, Dodik reacted by banning all Bosnian state prosecutorial, police and court institutions from Republika Srpska, in what the Bosnian constitutional court ruled was a move to “effectively abolish state authority over part of its territory”.

    In March, Bosnia’s state court issued an arrest warrant against Dodik for ignoring a court summons over his alleged secessionist activity. In April, the Bosnian state investigation and protection agency, Sipa, attempted to arrest him in East Sarajevo, which is part of Republika Srpska.

    An armed stand-off followed between Sipa officers and local police. Eventually the Sipa officers withdrew.

    So it came as a surprise for many when Dodik and his lawyer attended a scheduled hearing for his case on July 4. The court duly lifted its arrest warrant pending further proceedings with a requirement that he report in on a periodical basis.

    Two days later, despite only being on conditional release, Dodik restated his claim for the unification of Republika Srpska with Serbia, saying: “Bosnia and Herzegovina is not a state of Serbs but only a temporary refuge.”

    The burden of history

    The state of Bosnia and Herzegovina emerged from the horrors of the Yugoslav wars in the 1990s. The country’s political form was part of the 1995 Dayton peace agreement, which was both a peace deal and a state-building blueprint.

    To accommodate, rather than solve, the tensions between the three main ethnic groups – Bosniak Muslims, Serbs and Croats – the state was divided into two entities: the Serb-majority Republika Srpska and the Bosniak-Croat Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

    Both parts of the country hold considerable autonomous powers, but are bridged by the weak federal political institutions. Like many power-sharing deals, Dayton ended the fighting but failed to build an integrated state.

    The two entities guard their autonomy fiercely. Attempts by the European Union to push for constitutional changes to pave the way to closer relations with the Bosnian state, for example by reforming the country’s police force, have been rebuffed by nationalist politicians.

    The Republika Srpska has been vocal in defence of its autonomous rights. And the most prominent voice among them has been Dodik, who consistently portrays Republika Srpska as a bulwark for Serbs against a hostile Bosnian-majority state imposing its will.

    Serbs only account for about 30% of the total population of Bosnia, and clearly chafe at the power-sharing arrangement. Ever since the Dayton accords brought a halt to the fighting, Serb nationalist politicians have toyed with the idea of a “Greater Serbia”.

    This encompasses Serbs living in Serbia, Republika Srpska and Serbia’s breakaway province in Kosovo. Dodik’s statement from July 6 has stirred up these sentiments once more, almost to the day on the anniversary of the first-ever pan-Serbian assembly held in Belgrade on June 8 2024 and co-hosted by Dodik and and the Serbian president, Aleksandar Vučić.

    At a crossroads

    Bosnia is at a crossroads. Internally divided in whether populations see their future in their past, retaining a semi-autocratic, ethno-nationalist government, or whether they see their future as a democratic, accountable and multiethnic state. The former, of course, would look to – and remain within the sphere of influence of – Russia. The latter prefer to look westward for their future.

    Bosnia, like its neighbours, is an EU candidate country. It began accession negotiations in March 2024, but many of the reforms required to meet EU accession criteria clash with Bosnia’s constitution.

    Among other things, this restricts who can join the tripartite federal presidency and the House of Peoples, the upper-chamber of the federal parliament, excluding Jews, Roma and other minorities. This would have to change for Bosnia to join.

    But the Bosnian constitution is anchored in the Dayton peace agreement, so nationalist politicians threaten that constitutional reform will endanger Bosnia’s peace and integrity.

    Embracing constitutional reforms to fulfil EU entry requirements is risky for nationalist politicians as it undercuts their ethnic powerbase. However, turning fully away from the EU, and possibly towards Russia, carries a hefty price-tag in foregone direct financial support and economic integration. So far, Dodik and Vučić have managed to somewhat balance these seemingly contradictory courses of action. However, they are facing increasing headwinds.

    Both the ongoing Serbian protests and recent polls from Bosnia showing that 70% of Bosnians (but only 50% of Bosnian Serbs) want to join the EU, question whether this course remains viable. With increased popular calls for democracy, accountability and fair elections, the recent actions by Dodik and his allies may be a reaction to these demands, rather than a separate agenda.

    An old elite desperately clinging to power? Given the political fragility of Bosnia, reform appears inevitable. But the choice is a contested one.

    One way the country breaks into its constituent parts along ethnic lines. The other prospect is that Bosnia embraces reform and progresses to become a democratic multi-ethnic state with a European future. Either way may spell turbulent times ahead.

    Birte Julia Gippert 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. Bosnia and Herzegovina in crisis as Bosnian-Serb president rallies for secession – https://theconversation.com/bosnia-and-herzegovina-in-crisis-as-bosnian-serb-president-rallies-for-secession-260618

    MIL OSI –

  • Amit Shah highlights cooperative movement and agricultural growth at Rajasthan’s ‘Sahkar & Rojgar Utsav’

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Amit Shah, addressed the ‘Sahkar & Rojgar Utsav’ in Jaipur, Rajasthan, marking the International Year of Cooperatives – 2025. The event, attended by dignitaries including Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, Union Minister of Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat celebrated the cooperative movement’s role in rural and agricultural development.

    During the event, Shah virtually inaugurated 24 grain storage warehouses and 64 millet outlets, distributed ₹12 crore in loans to 1,400 cowherds under the Gopal Credit Card Scheme, and provided micro-ATMs to over 2,300 milk-producing committees. He also launched the White Revolution 2.0 online registration platform for Primary Dairy Cooperative Societies (PDCS) and released a compilation of success stories under the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya Gareebi Mukt Gram Abhiyan and Vande Ganga Water Conservation Campaign. Additionally, 100 new vehicles for Rajasthan Police and armed forces were flagged off.

    Shah emphasized that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s establishment of the Union Ministry of Cooperation has extended cooperative benefits to villages, farmers, and the poor. He noted that cooperatives are active in 98% of rural areas, contributing significantly to India’s agricultural and economic landscape, including 20% of paddy and wheat procurement, 35% of fertilizer production, and 30% of sugar production. Over 31 crore people are connected to 8.5 lakh cooperative bodies.

    Highlighting the Ministry’s achievements, Shah stated that within four years, 61 initiatives have strengthened cooperatives, including the creation of 40,000 new Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) out of a target of two lakh, full computerization of PACS, and the establishment of cooperative institutions for organic products, exports, and seed promotion. He also underscored the Modi government’s commitment to purchasing pulses, oilseeds, and maize at Minimum Support Price (MSP) through NAFED and NCCF, ensuring farmers’ financial security.

    Rajasthan’s agricultural prominence was a key focus, with the state leading in the production of cluster beans (90%), mustard (46%), pearl millets (44%), oilseeds (22%), and millets (15%). The state ranks second in groundnut and third in jowar, gram, pulses, and soybean production. Shah noted that MSP for wheat, gram, mustard, and groundnut has increased significantly over the past 11 years. He also highlighted cooperative-led research on camel breed conservation and the medicinal properties of camel milk to ensure the species’ survival.

    Shah praised the Rajasthan government’s efforts under Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, including cracking down on paper leaks through a Special Investigation Team (SIT) and signing MoUs worth ₹35 lakh crore at the Global Investment Summit. Other initiatives include reducing VAT on fuel, providing LPG cylinders for ₹450, and advancing water supply projects under the Jal Jeevan Mission.

    Shah lauded the PM Modi government’s welfare schemes, which have provided housing, electricity, gas, free food grains, and healthcare to 60 crore poor people over the past 11 years. He credited PM Modi with elevating India to the world’s fourth-largest economy and lifting 27 crore people out of poverty. On national security, he highlighted decisive actions like surgical and air strikes in response to terrorist attacks, reinforcing India’s strong stance against threats.

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Hundreds of new jobs created by Sheffield manufacturing investment

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Hundreds of new jobs created by Sheffield manufacturing investment

    Hundreds of high skilled jobs are to be created in Sheffield after Walsin Lihwa (WL) announced a major investment that boosts the UK’s steel industry and advanced manufacturing sector.

    • Vote of confidence in UK steel and manufacturing as Taiwanese investor Walsin Lihwa brings new capabilities to the UK and expands its aerospace and energy materials portfolio.
    • Hundreds of well-paid and skilled jobs to be created, delivering on the Government’s Plan for Change for economic growth and higher living standards.
    • Investment Minister, Baroness Gustafsson, visited Sheffield site today to celebrate investment.

    Hundreds of high skilled jobs are to be created in Sheffield after Taiwanese advanced manufacturing company Walsin Lihwa (WL) announced a major investment that boosts the UK’s steel industry and advanced manufacturing sector.

    The positive news will create over 200 jobs by 2028 in a first phase, and marks the first step towards the company’s plans for a major presence in the UK, with further job creation and investment expected from WL in South Yorkshire and the UK in the coming years.

    The investment from WL will establish a new superalloy forging facility and plans for a research and development centre and come through an upgrade of its existing Special Melted Products (SMP) factory in Sheffield, which will be focused on producing speciality steel and nickel parts for aerospace jet engines and energy industry products.

    Delivering on the government’s economic growth mission at the heart of the Plan for Change, the investment will create good, well-paid jobs for local workers, with average salaries expected to be over £40,000 a year.

    The news follows Deloitte’s latest survey of finance officers which has found the UK is the joint top location for investment in the world and data out this week from Make UK and BDO which finds that manufacturing in the UK has recovered to 2019, pre-pandemic, levels in every region.

    The investment is a major boost to the government’s modern Industrial Strategy which launched last month and had identified opportunities in growth-driving sectors like this as priorities for government support. A vote of confidence in South Yorkshire’s world-class strengths in advanced manufacturing, clean energy and defence, it will back the growth corridor across the northern city regions.

    Notably the investment will introduce new melting and superalloy forging capabilities – a new strategic manufacturing capability to the UK – which will reduce domestic producers’, such as Rolls Royce, reliance on imports.

    These capabilities will aid the UK’s aspirations in aerospace, steel, nuclear and defence as set out in the modern Industrial Strategy, contribute resilience towards supply shocks and will help grow Sheffield’s manufacturing sector, which was valued at £1.4bn in 2023.

    Minister for Investment Baroness Gustafsson CBE said:

    Our modern Industrial Strategy is all about having more high paid jobs in the industries of the future, in communities right around the UK. This investment is a major vote of confidence in Sheffield’s world-class manufacturing sector and couldn’t match our ambitions better.

    Our Steel Strategy later this year will set out further support we will take to boost the steel sector and encourage investments like this, and we look forward to hearing from Walsin Lihwa about their ambitious UK growth plans, delivering on our Plan for Change.

    Once the forging facility is established, WL have also set out plans to set up a research and development centre in the UK in a next phase later in the decade, focused on strengthening the company’s capabilities in materials and digital technology innovation and contributing to a growing aerospace and defence cluster in South Yorkshire.

    The centre will generate hundreds of new well-paid jobs and apprenticeships, with a range of future-proof skills and expertise in manufacturing operations, welding, melting, metallurgy, engineering, machining, material science, data analytics, and other high value career opportunities.

    The Investment Minister, Baroness Gustafsson, attended the site today with WL’s Chairman, Yu-Lon Chiao, to celebrate the investment and to hear more about the company’s plans for UK growth.

    Walsin Lihwa Chairman, Yu-Lon Chiao, said:

    The United Kingdom possesses a vast market in aerospace, energy, and nuclear power sectors that is unparalleled by Taiwan. This investment marks a significant milestone in SMP’s development and underscores Walsin Lihwa’s firm determination for global expansion strategy. 

    Looking ahead, we plan to establish an R&D centre in the UK to further strengthen our capabilities in materials and digital technology innovation, while deepening our collaborative ties with the European market to jointly promote industrial upgrading and sustainable development.

    Gareth Stace, Director-General, UK Steel, said:

    The substantial investment that Special Melted Products is making in expanding its capability and capacity is tremendous news for local people, and UK plc.  This is sign of trust in British steelmaking and manufacturing, pushing forward valuable investment plans and establishing skilled careers.  Special Melted Products plans mean we are onshoring supply chains for industry giants like Rolls Royce, meaning investment goes directly back into UK jobs and the economy.

    South Yorkshire’s Mayor, Oliver Coppard said:

    Walsin Lihwa choosing to invest in SMP and build their new research and development centre in South Yorkshire is a huge vote of confidence in our region’s talent, innovation and expertise, and the advanced manufacturing ecosystem we’re creating here. 

    I promised to build a bigger and better economy in South Yorkshire, creating good jobs in the industries of the future. So I’m proud my office has been able to provide support that has helped to unlock this major investment, offering new jobs and opportunities, and bolstering our world leading steel industry. 

    We have always been known for our strengths in cutting-edge manufacturing technologies and industrial excellence. Walsin Lihwa’s investment builds on our legacy, reaffirming South Yorkshire’s place at the heart of UK high-value manufacturing and innovation.

    Cllr Tom Hunt, Leader of Sheffield City Council, said:

    This significant investment in Sheffield’s advanced manufacturing sector is a major milestone for our city and strengthens our global reputation for innovation and excellence.

    The investment is a strong sign of recognition in our city’s capabilities, talent, and ambition. It will create new high-quality local jobs and training opportunities as next generation technologies are developed in Sheffield. We look forward to continuing to work closely with Walsin and Special Melted Products long into the future.

    Notes to editors:

    • Advanced Manufacturing, Clean Energy and Defence are three of eight growth-driving sectors in the UK Government’s modern Industrial Strategy: a 10-year plan to make it quicker and easier for businesses to invest in the UK, provide them with certainty and stability to make long term decisions and ensure they benefit from the UK’s openness to the world.
    • Information on recent government actions to support the steel sector can be found here.
    • You can find all our recent and upcoming announcements relating to the Steel Strategy on our GOV.UK Collection page
    • Deloitte’s latest survey of UK Chief Financial Officers can be found here.
    • Make UK and BDO’s annual Regional Manufacturing Outlook report can be found here.
    • Walsin Lihwa will confirm the total investment figure in the coming weeks.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Engines of AI primed to accelerate new breakthroughs, economic growth, and transform the UK into an AI maker

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Engines of AI primed to accelerate new breakthroughs, economic growth, and transform the UK into an AI maker

    The government’s new Compute Roadmap will harness AI to deliver on the UK’s national priorities under the Plan for Change.

    New Compute Roadmap to boost AI breakthroughs.

    • UK to develop new medical cures and tools to cut emissions by delivering the processing power needed to fuel AI on British shores.  
    • Projects supporting the government’s Plan for Change – particularly on economic growth and building a better NHS will be prioritised access, with the UK’s most powerful supercomputer coming online from today. 
    • Edinburgh also set to become the first National Supercomputing Centre, while Scotland and Wales are poised for billions in private investment and thousands of new jobs as future sites of AI Growth Zones. 

    Artificial Intelligence will be used to deliver the UK’s national priorities under  the government’s Plan for Change and position the country as an AI maker rather than an AI taker – accelerating economic growth and transforming public services, as a new strategy looks to bolster the country’s compute capacity to power new breakthroughs in AI.  

    Businesses and researchers use compute – essentially the computer chips that process huge amounts of data – to train and build AI models or process prompts and questions through AI to discover everything from new drugs which treat and beat diseases to new tools to tackle climate change. Demand for cutting-edge compute power is already expected to surge by 5.7x between now and 2035, with the government taking vital steps to ensure the UK can stay ahead of the curve as the technology develops.  

    Published today (Thursday 17 July), the Compute Roadmap will deliver on the £1 billion set aside in the Spending Review to increase the UK’s compute infrastructure – allowing us to drive forward AI development on our own terms to ensure the technology can deliver for the British people. This will mean reducing our reliance on foreign computing power to deliver the transformations which will improve public services and help to fix the foundations of the economy. The Roadmap also builds on the ambition of the 10-year infrastructure strategy and the Modern Industrial Strategy to put the government’s vision into action – increasing investment and growing the industries of the future.

    Compute is the raw processing power that drives AI’s development. Without enough power, we cannot deliver the breakthroughs to treat and beat diseases, make industries cleaner and greener, or find new ways to fight climate change. To help deliver on these shared national priorities, we will expand the UK’s AI Research Resource (AIRR) twenty-fold over the next 5 years. The system, delivered in partnership with UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), Nvidia, HPE,  Dell Technologies and Intel, brings together the country’s most powerful supercomputers – Isambard-AI based in Bristol and Dawn in Cambridge.  

    The Technology Secretary flicked the switch on the Isambard supercomputer at its formal launch in Bristol today, meaning the AI Research Resource (AIRR) is now fully up and running - transforming the UK’s public compute capacity by being able to process in one second what it would take then entire global population 80 years to achieve. When the AIRR’s planned expansion is complete in the coming years, it will be vastly more powerful than the world’s current leading supercomputers. 

    University College London researchers are already using Isambard to line up pioneering AI tools which could revolutionise NHS cancer screening. Using prostate cancer as its initial test case, they are harnessing the system to develop one of the first scalable AI models dedicated to medical imaging – using AI to analyse MRI scans and identify patients in need of treatment sooner.  

    Secretary of State for Science, Innovation, and Technology Peter Kyle said:  

    Britain has top of the class talent in AI and our plan will put a rocket under our brilliant researchers, scientists, and engineers – giving them the tools they need to make Britain the best place to do their work.

    This will mean we can harness the technology in Britain to transform our public services, drive growth, and unlock new opportunities for every community in the country.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, said:

    We are harnessing the power of AI to transform our public services, drive innovation and fuel economic growth that puts money in people’s pockets.

    As technology advances, our Plan for Change is ensuring we are ahead of the curve, expanding our sovereign AI capabilities so we can make scientific breakthroughs, equip businesses with new tools for growth, and create new jobs across the country.

    The AIRR will see the UK’s compute capacity increase to 420 AI exaFLOP by 2030 – the equivalent of one billion people spending 13,316 years doing what the full AIRR will do in one second. That means all one billion people would have needed to start calculating more than 8,000 years before Stonehenge was built, without taking a break. Projects that matter most to the UK and align with national priorities will be prioritised access to the AIRR to help deliver the Plan for Change - as well as those which will have a real-world impact and deliver breakthroughs that change lives and grow the economy. 

    Researchers at the University of Liverpool meanwhile have been using Isambard to develop their EIMCRYSTAL system. Their model harnesses AI to speed up the discovery of new chemical reactions for use in industry, sifting through 68 million chemical combinations to find new solutions which will decarbonise British industry to make it greener, cleaner, and more sustainable. Isambard is already supporting other areas of highly ambitious AI research. The Sovereign AI Unit has launched an early pilot supporting academic researchers in AI for biosciences, foundational AI research, and advanced materials. These will be some of the most compute-intensive training runs that academics have carried out on UK infrastructure. 

    Working alongside the AI Research Resource, a network of National Supercomputing Centres will also be set up across the country – with the first based in Edinburgh, the future home of the UK’s most powerful research supercomputer. These will work as dedicated centres of expertise, connecting users not only with access to cutting-edge processing power, but catalysing greater collaboration between industry, academia, and researchers. They will help to build stronger links with existing talent in their regions – giving all areas of the country a supporting role in the UK’s ability to be an AI maker.  

    To further support the UK’s AI sovereignty ambitions, the Sovereign AI Unit has been established in the Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology, backed with £500 million of funding. Strengthening the UK’s domestic AI capabilities, including by developing the UK’s compute ecosystem, will be a key focus for the unit. 

    The strategy set out today and the work of the Sovereign AI Unit will ensure the UK can roll out the next generation of champions in compute technology – sparking the creating of leaders in a range of fields to put British innovation and expertise on the map. 

    Today’s Compute Roadmap also puts Scotland and Wales in the frame to benefit from billions in private investment and thousands of new jobs as future homes to AI Growth Zones. These dedicated AI hotbeds offer accelerated planning permissions to speed up the roll-out of data centres, which will be powered by responsible and cutting-edge energy sources like small modular reactors (SMRs). 

    AI Growth Zones will not only deliver the infrastructure we need but also support the technology’s evolution in a range of other areas. These will include R&D and Innovation Platforms, Adoption Testbeds and taking on a role as skills and talent hubs which will give people the tools they need to develop, use, and work with the technology. Further details of where these Growth Zones will be based in Wales and Scotland will be confirmed in due course.   

    Capitalising on the ambition of today’s announcements, the Technology Secretary is also launching a dedicated AI for Science strategy. This will set out the clear steps the government will take forward to cement the UK’s position as a global leader in AI-enabled science breakthroughs, explore ways to boost adoption of the technology across the science sector and spark new commercial opportunities created by AI for science. 

    An expert group of senior academics, industry leaders and representatives of science institutions will advise on the strategy:

    • Alison Noble CBE FRS, Vice-President of the Royal Society and Professor of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Oxford.
    • Antony Rowstron, Chief Technical Officer at the Advanced Research and Invention Agency.
    • Charlotte Deane, Executive Chair of the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council and Professor of Structural Bioinformatics at the University of Oxford.
    • Chris Bishop, FRS FREng FRSE and Technical Fellow, Microsoft Research AI for Science.
    • Pushmeet Kohli, VP, Science and Strategic Initiatives, Google DeepMind.

    Published in the Autumn, the strategy will help to accelerate the pace of scientific discovery through AI, maximising its potential to drive innovation and growth.  

    The roadmap set out today lays the groundwork for a golden age for British AI – supporting innovation, growth, and new opportunities in all sectors of the economy. It is a plan which delivers certainty to researchers, industry, and investors alike, cementing the UK’s position as a world leader in artificial intelligence.  

    Reaction to today’s announcements

    On the Compute Roadmap

    Josh Payne, CEO, Nscale said:

    Nscale strongly welcomes the UK Government’s compute roadmap.

    As the only full stack sovereign AI infrastructure provider in the UK, we are delighted that the Government recognises the importance of sovereign capability in this area.

    We look forward to working with the Government and our partners to deliver this ambitious agenda.

    Professor Sir Peter Mathieson, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Edinburgh said:

    To be named the UK’s first national supercomputing centre is a significant recognition of the University of Edinburgh’s longstanding leadership in advanced computing. For more than thirty years, we have hosted the UK’s national supercomputer and further developed our globally respected expertise in computer science and artificial intelligence.         The new designation as the first national supercomputing centre will provide new opportunities for research and innovation across the UK, attracting further investment and talent. We look forward to working alongside the UK government and partners to bring this ambitious plan to life.

    Carolyn Dawson OBE, CEO of Founders Forum Group and Tech Nation:  

    We know the UK’s AI ecosystem is brimming with talent and ambition, but to lead globally, we must anchor this ambition in cutting-edge, sovereign compute infrastructure.

    Bold investment in compute power is exactly what’s required to accelerate innovation and secure a leading role for Britain in the global AI race. By bringing together world-class supercomputers in partnership with industry leaders like Nvidia and Intel, and expanding access through National Supercomputing Centres and AI Growth Zones in Scotland and Wales, this roadmap demonstrates the UK’s ambition to shape the future of AI.

    Julian David OBE, CEO of techUK, said: 

    This ambitious roadmap, underpinned by actions with dates for delivery, shows that the UK Government is serious in its ambition to deliver innovative and real-world impact through transformative AI, compute and cloud technologies.

    We are particularly encouraged to see alignment between compute recommendations and AI Growth Zones – a vital move to better connect expertise, support UK innovators, and maximise the value of UK research and innovation. 

    While there are still certain aspects to be explored, such as how these Growth Zones will develop the testbeds and platforms to help the most innovative emerging tech businesses grow and scale, techUK remains committed to working with government and our members to build on this ambition to power the next generation of AI.

    Walter Goodwin, founder and CEO of Fractile, said: 

     >I wholeheartedly welcome the Compute Roadmap. The Roadmap is a joined up strategy that will both drive an immediate expansion of AI compute capacity in the UK, but further will ultimately see pull-through of breakthrough AI compute platforms being built by UK semiconductor companies, like Fractile’s AI accelerators, into widespread commercial deployment. > > This will close the loop on sustainable sovereign compute capacity and ensure the UK will be an AI compute maker, not just a taker.

    On the AI for Science Strategy

    Dr Antony Rowstron, CTO of ARIA, said:

    I’ve built my career at the intersection of computing and science, and seen firsthand how the right technological leap can redefine what’s possible. AI represents just such a leap – a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to transform the speed of research and invention.

    I’m looking forward to bringing that experience, and my perspective from ARIA, to help put the UK at the forefront of this revolution.

    Chris Bishop, FRS FREng FRSE and Technical Fellow, Microsoft Research AI for Science said: 

    I personally believe that scientific discovery represents the most important and promising opportunity for AI in our generation. The consequences are far-reaching, from the discovery of life-saving drugs to the efficient design of sustainable materials.

    I am therefore delighted to participate, alongside other leading experts, in the new government strategic advisory panel on AI for Science. Together, I know that we will ensure that the UK remains at the forefront of AI development, in an area that is key to the future success of our society.

    Pushmeet Kohli, VP, Science and Strategic Initiatives, Google DeepMind said:  

    Science can help us address some of humanity’s greatest challenges, from climate change to disease.

    I’m excited to collaborate with the UK government and other industry leaders, experts and academics to help the nation leverage AI to accelerate scientific progress, and build upon the UK’s strong history of scientific leadership.

    Professor Alison Noble, Vice-President of the Royal Society, said:  

    The Royal Society welcomes the government’s commitments to growing the UK’s computing power and AI research resources. Today’s launch of the government’s AI for Science Strategy is an important step to advance the responsible use of AI across scientific disciplines. 

    From drug discovery to robot-assisted laboratories, AI is already reshaping how science is done and enabling new discoveries that were previously out of reach. To fully realise its benefits, we must ensure that advances in speed and scale do not come at the expense of rigour, transparency, or trust.

    By embedding principles of openness, reproducibility, and collaboration, this strategy could help ensure AI-based science has a strong foundation.

    Charlotte Deane, Executive Chair of the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council and Professor of Structural Bioinformatics at the University of Oxford said: 

    AI will completely change the way research is done, from the way we ask questions to the questions we can ask. It has the power to transform so many areas across science and innovation, and we need to ensure that the UK is at the forefront of this change.

    It is an exciting time to be involved in driving the potential of AI in science and for me an honour to be part of trying to make this change happen.

    DSIT media enquiries

    Email press@dsit.gov.uk

    Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 6pm 020 7215 3000

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Premier Moe Calls on Canadian Premiers to Join New West Partnership Trade Agreement

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on July 17, 2025

    Canada’s largest barrier-free interprovincial market with combined GDP of over $818 billion

    Today, Premier Scott Moe encouraged all Canadian jurisdictions to join the New West Partnership Trade Agreement (NWPTA). Barrier free internal trade is crucial to creating a competitive and resilient trade environment and the NWPTA is one more way government can prioritize their commitment to a strong domestic economy.

    “Joining the New West Partnership is an opportunity for all provinces and territories to work together to strengthen internal trade and to grow Canada’s economy,” Moe said. “For almost two decades, western provinces have enhanced free flowing trade through the New West Partnership Trade Agreement, fostered strong economic growth and created opportunities for communities and residents.” 

    The NWPTA was established in 2010 by Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia – with Manitoba later joining. Through the NWPTA, member provinces have committed to fully recognize or reconcile rules affecting trade, investment and labour mobility, allowing for Canada’s largest barrier-free interprovincial market. It has lower procurement thresholds and fewer exceptions than the Canadian Free Trade Agreement (CFTA).

    Companies across Saskatchewan have benefitted from the NWPTA, including Crestline, a manufacturing company located in Saskatoon that builds buses for public transit, health care, shuttle, tour and charter industries.

    “We commend the Government of Saskatchewan and its partners in British Columbia, Alberta, and Manitoba for their continued leadership in strengthening interprovincial trade,” Canada for Crestline President Steve Hoffrogge said. “The modernization of the New West Partnership Trade Agreement reflects a shared commitment to transparency, fairness and reducing barriers to doing business across Western Canada. These steps create a more competitive environment that benefits businesses, workers and consumers alike.” 

    Saskatchewan remains a strong advocate for free and fair trade and has always been a national leader on this front, with some of the fewest exceptions of any province within the CFTA. All Provinces and Territories have committed to reviewing their existing exceptions and reducing these barriers when possible. 

    The province continues to take part in the Committee on Internal Trade, which includes enhancing the CFTA, reducing regulatory and administrative burdens to interprovincial trade and facilitating labour mobility.

    Saskatchewan is co-leading a framework to advance direct-to-consumer (DTC) alcohol sales for Canadian products. On July 8, Saskatchewan agreed to a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with nine other jurisdictions committing to support the ability for consumers to order alcoholic beverages directly from producers.

    In June, Saskatchewan signed an MOU with Ontario to collaborate on the removal of trade barriers across the two jurisdictions. This includes commitments to facilitate mutual recognition of goods, workers and investment, while strengthening public safety and respecting the integrity and role of Crown corporations.

    The NWPTA makes it easier for businesses to expand into other provinces and lowers costs for businesses and taxpayers. It represents Canada’s largest barrier-free interprovincial market, with an economic region of over 11 million Canadians and a combined GDP of over $818 billion.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • Israel’s attacks on Damascus hinder chemical weapons search, Syrian official says

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Israeli airstrikes on Damascus are hampering Syria’s efforts to find and destroy chemical weapons stockpiled during the rule of toppled ruler Bashar al-Assad, a government adviser said on Thursday.

    A planned visit by inspectors from the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) has already had to be postponed, adviser Ibrahim Olabi, who is the legal adviser to Syria’s Foreign Ministry tasked with the chemical weapons file, said.

    The OPCW will hold an urgent meeting on Tuesday next week to discuss the situation in Syria, a document published on its website on Thursday showed. The meeting comes at the request of Qatar which represents the interest of Syria at the OPCW and which said in a letter the Israeli attacks on Damascus pose a direct threat to Syria’s capacity to meet its obligations to the chemical weapons watchdog.

    Israel launched powerful airstrikes on Damascus on Wednesday, blowing up part of the defence ministry and hitting near the presidential palace, taking action it said was to protect the Druze minority in southern Syria.

    The Syrian defence ministry provided the institutional infrastructure needed to organise and secure visits from OPCW inspectors, Olabi said.

    Since March there have been several visits byinspectors to previously unseen production and storage locations for chemical weapons to prepare for the task of destroying remnants of Assad’s illegal stockpile. Syria’s interim-government has vowed to rid itself of chemical weapons.

    The OPCW, a treaty-based agency in The Hague with 193 member countries, is tasked with implementing the 1997 Chemical Weapons Convention.

    (Reuters)

  • Israel’s attacks on Damascus hinder chemical weapons search, Syrian official says

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Israeli airstrikes on Damascus are hampering Syria’s efforts to find and destroy chemical weapons stockpiled during the rule of toppled ruler Bashar al-Assad, a government adviser said on Thursday.

    A planned visit by inspectors from the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) has already had to be postponed, adviser Ibrahim Olabi, who is the legal adviser to Syria’s Foreign Ministry tasked with the chemical weapons file, said.

    The OPCW will hold an urgent meeting on Tuesday next week to discuss the situation in Syria, a document published on its website on Thursday showed. The meeting comes at the request of Qatar which represents the interest of Syria at the OPCW and which said in a letter the Israeli attacks on Damascus pose a direct threat to Syria’s capacity to meet its obligations to the chemical weapons watchdog.

    Israel launched powerful airstrikes on Damascus on Wednesday, blowing up part of the defence ministry and hitting near the presidential palace, taking action it said was to protect the Druze minority in southern Syria.

    The Syrian defence ministry provided the institutional infrastructure needed to organise and secure visits from OPCW inspectors, Olabi said.

    Since March there have been several visits byinspectors to previously unseen production and storage locations for chemical weapons to prepare for the task of destroying remnants of Assad’s illegal stockpile. Syria’s interim-government has vowed to rid itself of chemical weapons.

    The OPCW, a treaty-based agency in The Hague with 193 member countries, is tasked with implementing the 1997 Chemical Weapons Convention.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Devolution plans move forward 17 July 2025 Devolution plans move forward

    Source: Aisle of Wight

    Plans to create a new Mayoral County Combined Authority (MCCA) for the region have reached a new stage, following confirmation from the government that it will proceed with the necessary legislation.

    Southampton City Council, Portsmouth City Council, Hampshire County Council, and the Isle of Wight Council are working closely with government on the legislative framework that will underpin the new powers to formally establish the new MCCA.

    The aim is to transfer certain powers and funding to the local level, focusing on areas such as transport, housing, infrastructure, and economic development.

    If agreed by the authorities and then approved by Parliament, elections for the new Mayor will take place in May 2026.

    Today’s (Thursday) announcement follows the introduction of the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill to Parliament last week.

    The government’s Devolution Priority Programme aims to create Mayoral Strategic Authorities across the country.

    These bodies would take on responsibilities currently managed by national departments, while existing local councils would continue to deliver day-to-day services.

    The Isle of Wight was included in the fast-track phase of the programme earlier this year.

    It is important to note that the creation of a Mayoral County Combined Authority is not the same as Local Government Reorganisation (LGR), which is a separate process currently running in parallel.

    The proposed MCCA would not replace or merge existing councils. Instead, it would operate as a strategic regional body, led by a directly elected Mayor, with new powers and funding devolved from central government.

    Local councils, including the Isle of Wight Council, would continue to deliver local services as they do now.

    Council leader, Councillor Phil Jordan, said: “I welcome the announcement from government on devolution. They have set out their approach to what they see as opportunities of additional funding and transfer of powers from Westminster heralding a new approach to localised services and decision making.

    “Working with our area partners, and this includes on crucial cross-Solent travel issues, we are committed to improving the community that is the Isle of Wight.

    “The councils involved continue to work together, as well as with government, in moving forward to understand the legal and procedural steps.”

    Isle of Wight councillors will have the opportunity to review and consider any proposed devolution arrangement later in the year.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: NATO Deputy Secretary General discusses a stronger and fairer NATO, and deterring aggression, at LANDEURO symposium

    Source: NATO

    On Thursday (17 July 2025), NATO Deputy Secretary General Radmila Shekerinska addressed the LANDEURO symposium of The Association of the United States’ Army, discussing the role of the Allies’ armed forces and industry in deterring aggression.

    Thank you, General Brown.

    And good afternoon, everyone.

    It’s great to be here in Wiesbaden, home to the US Army’s Europe and Africa Headquarters.

    And a critical hub for America’s efforts to ensure stability across the region, but also beyond.

    Wiesbaden also houses our NATO command, the Security Assistance and Training command for Ukraine.

    With hundreds of personnel from NATO and partner countries who work hard, every day.

    To support Ukraine and to coordinate thousands of movements of military supplies, so that Ukraine can fight for it’s freedom, for peace, and for security.

    So what a better place to discuss the role of our armed forces and industry in deterring aggression.

    Let me start by thanking the organisers, the Association of the United States’ Army, for bringing us together to discuss this and many other important topics.

    Less than a month ago, leaders of all Allied nations gathered for the NATO Summit in The Hague.

    And they all had one clear objective.

    How to keep one billion people living in NATO countries safe today.

    And how to deter any possibility of aggression in the future.

    How to make sure that our Alliance can fulfil and I would say continue, in the next 75 and more years, to fulfil our sacred mission.

    What we saw in The Hague at the NATO Summit was bold decisions from our political leaders.

    A strong demonstration of our transatlantic unity and resolve.

    Allies have managed to agree on a very ambitious Defence Investment Plan, a new one, The Hague one,

    to invest 5 percent of GDP for our security by 2035.

    And this really is a game-changer.

    And I shouldn’t be saying this in this room, because you can understand how much of an impact will this have for our deterrence and our defence.

    It will massively increase NATO’s strength and war-fighting capabilities.

    And it will definitely ensure that we continue what we do best, and this is deliver peace, but through strength.

    At least 3.5% of GDP out of the 5% target will be spent on so called core miliary requirements.

    They will be spend on what one can say is the heavy metal of our armed forces — many of you here today.

    And this is the heavy metal that you all need to deter and defend.

    Among all these capability requirements that all Allies have agreed to even a month before the Hague Summit,

    What we have included in this number is a five-fold increase of our air and missile defence systems,

    thousands more armoured vehicles and tanks,

    and millions more artillery shells,

    and drones, and air jets.

    All these things contribute to the capability targets that we need, and the capability targets that require 3.5% of GDP so that they can be financed in due time.

    At the same time, Allies agreed to spend 1.5% of GDP on defence and security related expenses.

    This means more money to support our militaries and societies to become more secure.

    In a world where microchips matter as much as the latest missiles every part of our society and our economy must step up for security.

    From strong cyber defences to secure supply chains.

    From greater resilience to more investment in roads, railways and ports for the sake of our defence plans.

    This is all about making sure that we can get our forces to the right place at the right time, but equipped with the right capabilities.

    It’s also about responding to the world as it is now, not as we wish it to be.

    Preparing for war costs money, 5% is a lot of money.

    But not preparing for it will cost us far more, both in terms of money and in terms of lives. We are no longer fighting wars of choice, where everything is plannable and we set the timetable.

    It is our adversaries that are setting the pace of production and defining the moment.

    Russia is rearming faster than many people have imagined.

    It is enabled by Chinese technology, Iranian drones, and North Korean missiles but also boots on the ground.

    What’s more, Putin has shown that he will not hesitate to use military force to achieve his goals.

    China is also carrying out its own massive military modernisation.

    It is rapidly expanding its nuclear arsenal, completely unconstrained by any arms control agreements.

    It is flexing its muscles in the South China Sea and sharpening its tools of economic coercion in the Euro-Atlantic.

    And while all this is happening, we also cannot underestimate the persistent instability in the Middle East,

    divisive rhetoric in the Western Balkans,

    and the ongoing threats of terrorism.

    So as the world becomes more dangerous, more turbulent,

    NATO must become stronger, fairer and, and this is the right place to use the word, more lethal.

    To leave no adversary in any doubt that we will do what it takes to protect and defend each other.

    A couple of weeks ago, we bid a fond farewell to General Cavoli, who as you know wore two hats.

    He was both NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander, our SACEUR, but also Commander of the US’s European forces.

    And let me use this opportunity to say that he has played really a fundamental role in transforming the Alliance, even prior to the NATO Summit.

    He has really supported us in fostering a stronger bond between NATO’s Supreme Allied Headquarters in Mons, SHAPE, and the United States’ European Command in Stuttgart.

    General Cavoli made sure that we have robust regional plans to defend every inch of Allied territory.

    And that we continue to modernise NATO’s multi-domain warfighting capabilities.

    From the seabed to outer space, we cannot afford to have any weak links.

    The conflicts in Ukraine, but also the instability and the conflicts in the Middle East have transformed modern warfare.

    In Ukraine, we have seen tactics and trench-warfare from the last world wars, combined with the completely new technology from the next.

    Ukraine has pioneered the use of drones, I was able to see remarkable examples for this, but not only in the air domain.

    But also to neutralise the threat of the Russian army in the Black Sea.

    And to strike Russian military targets far beyond the frontlines.

    Both Russia and Ukraine have carried out kinetic and non-kinetic attacks — across land, sea, air, cyber and information space — and all of this simultaneously.

    This was done to certain extent in devastating ways.

    And we need to therefore think differently about how we operate.

    Not in silos — but really seamlessly across all domains — and at the same time.

    So when we develop our capabilities, this is the thinking, this is the logic.

    This is the philosophy that we have to take into account.

    We also need to think about how we integrate the latest technologies with conventional capabilities to gain the maximum effect.

    And this was very much what SACEUR and SACT worked on in the last years.

    But this is why we were also delighted to welcome General Alexus Grynkewich as our new Supreme Allied Commander.

    He has championed innovation and developed cutting-edge capabilities for our armed forces.

    His appointment demonstrates the United States’ ironclad commitment to our shared security.

    As America continues to put forward its brightest and best in service of the United States of America, but also in the service of the Alliance.

    At the Summit, we heard really strong statements from the US leadership, from President Trump, but also from the two Secretaries and all the representatives.

    How dedicated and how committed they are to NATO and to our collective defence.

    The US continues to stand foursquare with its NATO Allies.

    Because it is good for America’s security and it is vital for the transatlantic security.

    The US has played and continues to play an indispensable role in our Alliance.

    Providing critical enablers, reinforcements, and of course its nuclear deterrence – the ultimate guarantor of our security.

    At the same time, America’s Allies, European and Canada, are stepping up.

    All Allies, all 32 of them, will spend 2 percent of GDP on defence this year, as we have agreed time ago in Wales.

    And many are already going much further and much faster.

    Some of them have stepped up and approached 5% even before the Summit. And this is remarkable leadership.

    They are making sure that we have collectively what we need to deter and defend.

    That’s why the other major focus of the Summit in The Hague was defence production.

    Because cash alone does not deter our adversaries. It does not by itself provide security.

    But concrete capabilities do.

    Our adversaries won’t be deterred just because of our statements, because of our pledges, because of our words.

    But by strong defences, well-equipped troops, and the latest weapons systems.

    This is why the Secretary General has been tireless in his efforts to engage not only with Allied leaders or with the militaries, but also with defence industries on both sides of the Atlantic.

    He has been urging them to open new production lines, put in the extra shifts, really ramp up production.

    But also to boost innovation and come up with capabilities that are actually meaningful today and tomorrow.

    And they are.

    They are really prepared for this game-changing environment around us.

    Across the Alliance, industry has opened hundreds of new production lines and expanded existing ones.

    We are now on course to produce more ships, more planes and ammunition than we have done in decades.

    But we still need to do more.

    NATO Allies today are home to world-class defence companies – some of them present today here with us – the best researchers, and the most innovative entrepreneurs.

    But we need to do these things more, better and faster to drive even more production both on the American but also on the European side of the Atlantic.

    And, again, we need to think differently about how and who we partner with.

    This means working with everyone from the defence primes to civilian start-ups to integrate the latest technologies into our defence.

    But it also means working together not among us in the Alliance, but also with our partners, from Ukraine, European Union, to the Indo-Pacific. All of them joined us for the Hague Summit and we agreed to do more, together, including or especially focusing on defence production.

    There is so much we can learn from Ukraine, and we already are learning.

    We have opened a new joint centre in Poland, the so-called JATEC [the NATO-Ukraine Joint Analysis, Training and Education Centre] to do that exactly. To help Ukraine, but also, in the same way use the experience so that we can create stronger deterrence and defence.

    We are also determined to work even more closely with our partners — Australia, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea — including on defence production.

    They are the source of so many of today’s cutting-edge capabilities.

    Ladies and gentlemen,

    NATO is the strongest and most successful defensive Alliance in history of mankind.

    We have done that. We have secured. We have protected one billion citizens.

    Because we combine the finest armed forces, with the most innovative economies.

    And because of our solemn promise to protect and defend each other.

    So this sense of unity, solidarity, joint work is very strong and continues to be very important for us.

    So let me end by thanking all of you here for the vital role you have played in our security.

    I know I can count and we can count on you to keep our Alliance strong and our one billion people safe.

    Thank you very much for your attention and I look forward to our discussions.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Supreme Court news coverage has talked a lot more about politics ever since the 2016 death of Scalia and GOP blocking of Obama’s proposed nominee

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Joshua Boston, Associate Professor of Political Science, Bowling Green State University

    Reporters used to treat the Supreme Court as a nonpolitical institution, but not anymore. Tetra Images/Getty

    The U.S. Supreme Court has always ruled on politically controversial issues. From elections to civil rights, from abortion to free speech, the justices frequently weigh in on the country’s most debated problems.

    And because of the court’s influence over national policy, political parties and interest groups battle fiercely over who gets appointed to the high court.

    The public typically finds out about the court – including its significant decisions and the politics surrounding appointments – from the news media. While elected officeholders and candidates make direct appeals to their voters, the justices and Supreme Court nominees are different – they largely rely on the news to disseminate information about the court, giving the public at least a cursory understanding.

    Recently, something has changed in newspaper coverage of the Supreme Court. As scholars of judicial politics, political institutions and political behavior, we set out to understand precisely how media coverage of the court has changed over the past 40 years. Specifically, we analyzed the content of every article referencing the Supreme Court in five major newspapers from 1980 to 2023.

    Of course, people get their news from a variety of sources, but we have no reason to believe the trends we uncovered in our research of traditional newspapers do not apply broadly. Research indicates that alternative media sources largely follow the lead of traditional beat reporters.

    What we found: Politics has a much stronger presence in articles today than in years past, with a notable increase beginning in 2016.

    When public goodwill prevailed

    Not many cases have been more important in the past quarter-century or, from a partisan perspective, more contentious than Bush v. Gore – the December 2000 ruling that stopped a ballot recount, resulting in then-Texas Governor George W. Bush defeating Democratic candidate Al Gore and winning the presidential election.

    Bush v. Gore is particularly interesting to us because nine unelected, life-tenured justices functionally decided an election.

    The New York Times story about the Supreme Court’s decision in Bush v. Gore indicated the justices’ names and votes but neither the party of the president who appointed them nor their ideological leanings.
    Screenshot, The New York Times

    Surprisingly, the court’s public support didn’t suffer, ostensibly because the court had built up a sufficient store of public goodwill.

    One reason public support remained steady following Bush v. Gore might be newspaper coverage. Although the court’s decision reflected the justices’ ideologies, with the more conservative members effectively voting to end the recount and its more liberal members voting in favor of the recount, newspapers largely ignored the role of politics in the decision.

    For example, the New York Times case coverage indicated the justices’ names and their votes but mentioned neither the party of the president who appointed them nor their ideological leanings. The words “Democrat,” “Republican,” “liberal” and “conservative” – what we call political frames – do not appear in the Dec. 13, 2000, story about the decision.

    This epitomizes court-related newspaper articles from the 1980s to the early 2000s, when reporters treated the court as a nonpolitical institution. According to our research, court-related news articles in The New York Times, The Washington Post, Chicago Tribune, Los Angeles Times and The Wall Street Journal hardly used political frames during that time.

    Instead, newspapers perpetuated a dominant belief among the public that Supreme Court decisions were based almost completely on legal principles rather than political preferences. This belief, in turn, bolstered support for the court.

    Recent newspaper coverage reveals a starkly different pattern.

    A contemporary political court

    It would be nearly impossible to read contemporary articles about the Supreme Court without getting the impression that it is just as political as Congress and the presidency.

    Analyzing our data from 1980 to 2023, the average number of political frames per article tripled. To be sure, politics has always played a role in the court’s decisions. Now, newspapers are making that clear. The question is when this change occurred.

    Across the five major newspapers, reporting about the court has gradually become more political over time. That isn’t surprising: America has been gradually polarizing since the 1980s as well, and the changes in news media coverage reflect that polarization.

    Take February of 2016, when Justice Antonin Scalia unexpectedly died. Of course, justices have died while serving on the court before. But Scalia was a conservative icon, and his death could have swung the court to the center or the left.

    How the politics of naming his successor played out after Scalia’s death was unprecedented.

    President Barack Obama’s nomination effort to put Merrick Garland on the court were stonewalled. The Senate majority leader, Republican Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, said the Senate would not consider any nomination until after the presidential election, nine months from Scalia’s death.

    Republican candidate Donald Trump, seeing an opening, promised to fill the vacancy with a conservative justice who would overturn Roe v. Wade. The court and the 2016 election became inseparable.

    President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama pay respects to Justice Antonin Scalia, whose 2016 death brought lasting change in newspaper coverage of the court.
    Tom Williams/CQ Roll Call via Getty Images

    Scalia vacancy changed everything

    February 2016 brought about an abrupt and lasting change in newspaper coverage. The day before Scalia’s death, a typical article referencing the court used 3.22 political frames.

    The day after, 10.48.

    We see an uptick in political frames if we consider annual changes as well. In 2015, newspapers averaged 3.50 political frames per article about the Supreme Court. Then, in 2016, 5.30.

    Using a variety of statistical methods to identify enduring framing shifts, we consistently find February 2016 as the moment newspapers shifted to higher levels of political framing of the court. We find the number of political frames in newspapers remained elevated through 2023.

    How stories frame something shapes how people think about it.

    If an article frames a court decision as “originalist” – an analytical approach that says constitutional texts should be interpreted as they were understood at the time they became law – then readers might think of the court as legalistic.

    But if the newspaper were to frame the decision as “conservative,” then readers might think of the court as ideological.

    We found in our study that when people read an article about a court decision using political frames, court approval declines. That’s because most people desire a legal court rather than a political one. No wonder polls today find the court with precariously low public support.

    We do not necessarily hold journalists responsible for the court’s dramatic decline in public support. The bigger issue may be the court rather than reporters. If the court acts politically, and the justices behave ideologically, then reporters are doing their job: writing accurate stories.

    That poses yet another problem. Before Trump’s three court appointments, the bench was known for its relative balance. Sometimes decisions were liberal; other times, conservative.

    In June 2013, the court provided protections to same-sex marriages. Two days earlier, the court struck down part of the Voting Rights Act. A liberal win, a conservative win – that’s what we might expect from a legal institution.

    Today the court is different. For most salient issues, the court supports conservative policies.

    Given, first, the media’s willingness to emphasize the court’s politics, and second, the justices’ ideologically consistent decisions across critical issues, it is unlikely that the news media retreats from political framing anytime soon.

    If that’s the case, the court may need to adjust to its low public approval.

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

    – ref. Supreme Court news coverage has talked a lot more about politics ever since the 2016 death of Scalia and GOP blocking of Obama’s proposed nominee – https://theconversation.com/supreme-court-news-coverage-has-talked-a-lot-more-about-politics-ever-since-the-2016-death-of-scalia-and-gop-blocking-of-obamas-proposed-nominee-259120

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Canada’s proposed Strong Borders Act further threatens the legal rights of migrants

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Shiva S. Mohan, Research Fellow, Canada Excellence Research Chair in Migration & Integration program, Toronto Metropolitan University

    Canada’s federal government recently introduced the Strong Borders Act, also known as Bill C-2, that proposes Canada tighten migration controls and modernize border enforcement between Canada and the United States.

    Critics have warned the bill “could pave the way for mass deportations” as well as increase precarity for legal migrants.



    Read more:
    Why Canada’s Strong Borders Act is as troublesome as Donald Trump’s travel bans

    Even now, under existing laws, a migrant could be “legal” and still be denied health care, lose their job or effectively be unable to leave Canada for fear of being denied re-entry.

    Bill C-2’s expanded enforcement powers and increased risk of status revocation could make these precarities much worse.

    This is already the quiet reality for thousands of migrants in Canada under their “maintained status”, formerly “implied status.” This status is a legal provision designed to protect continuity for temporary residents who apply to extend their permits.

    Maintained status itself is not the problem. On paper, it offers legal protection.

    But in practice, it often collapses because of the ecosystem in which it operates: fragmented institutions, absent co-ordination and lack of transparency.

    Maintained status has been narrowed

    In May 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) quietly narrowed the scope of maintained status.

    Under the new rules, if a person’s first application is refused while they are on maintained status, any second application submitted during that period is now automatically refused.

    This effectively strips applicants of legal status, including protections under maintained status, to remain in Canada. The change shows how even compliant migrants can lose status abruptly, further heightening the insecurity built into the system.

    This is a clear expression of complex precarity: a condition in which migrants face legal, economic and social insecurity, even when they follow all the rules.

    Maintained status is just one example of this larger phenomenon of Canadian policy generating hidden forms of exclusion.

    Legal, but not recognized?

    Migrants on maintained status are legally allowed to stay in Canada and continue working or studying under the same conditions as their expired permit. Yet no new permit is issued to confirm this status.

    Proof of this legal standing varies depending on how a person applies. Those who apply online may receive a WP-EXT letter confirming their right to continue working. However, this isn’t issued to post-graduation work-permit holders, and expires after 365 days.

    Paper-based applicants are advised that no such letter will be provided. Instead, they must rely on a copy of their application, a fee payment receipt or courier tracking information to demonstrate continued legal status.

    If no letter is available, or once it expires, IRCC advises applicants to direct employers to the Help Centre web page as proof of their right to remain and work.

    These workarounds are legally valid but fall short of what many employers, landlords and service providers consider adequate proof of status.



    Read more:
    Canada’s new immigration policy favours construction workers but leaves the rest behind

    The limits of informal proof

    My current ongoing research points to how employers following rigid HR protocols often reject informal documentation. Some migrants even obtain letters from immigration lawyers to explain their legal right to remain and work.

    IRCC does not publish public data on the number of people on maintained status or how long they remain in that condition. Some front-line organizations have adjusted their services in response to this gap.

    MOSAIC, for example, a major settlement agency in British Columbia, explicitly lists “migrant workers on maintained status” as eligible for support. This signals institutional recognition of the category.

    The broader situation, however, reflects a disconnect between legal recognition by the state and practical verifiability in everyday life.

    The risk of travel

    Travel while on maintained status is legally permitted only under narrow conditions, such as holding a valid Temporary Resident Visa, being visa-exempt or returning from the U.S. under specific circumstances.

    But even in these cases, leaving Canada terminates maintained status.

    Migrants may be allowed to re-enter as visitors, but they cannot resume work or study until a new permit is issued. This introduces major uncertainties for people who may need to travel for family, emergencies or professional obligations.

    Disparities in provincial health access

    Access to public health insurance during maintained status varies widely across provinces.

    In Ontario, OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan) cards are directly tied to the expiration of work permits. Unless migrants know to proactively request extended coverage and can meet specific document requirements, they risk losing health insurance entirely. Even when eligible, coverage is not automatic and may require out-of-pocket payment pending reimbursement.

    In Québec, RAMQ (Régie de l’assurance maladie du Québec) treats migrants on maintained status like new arrivals. They must reregister for coverage and face a three-month waiting period from the time of renewal, regardless of continuous legal presence.

    In British Columbia, by contrast, the MSP (Medical Services Plan) offers temporary coverage for up to six months (extendable) to individuals on maintained status, provided they previously held MSP and submit IRCC receipt proof.

    This more inclusive approach highlights how uneven provincial co-ordination amplifies the precarity of federal policy.

    Infrastructure is needed immediately

    Migrants face great risks on maintained status.

    Despite investments in automation and digital infrastructure, IRCC continues to experience chronic processing delays, leaving migrants in prolonged uncertainty: legally present, but practically unrecognized.

    To address this, Canada needs systems and resources designed to uphold legal recognition in daily life. It needs to:

    • Create a secure centralized portal that allows migrants to control who can verify their legal status in real time. The U.K.’s share code platform and the American myE‑Verify system provide clear examples of how this can work, reducing confusion for employers, landlords, and service providers.

    • Issue co-ordinated provincial guidance, particularly regarding access to essential services such as health care, so that front-line staff have clarity on migrants’ rights under maintained status.

    • Protect continuity of status after international travel, ensuring that those who leave Canada while on maintained status do not lose the ability to return and resume work or study.

    As Canada advances legislation like Bill C‑2, we must not ignore the country’s quiet erosion of its existing legal architecture for migrants.

    Migrants on maintained status have followed the rules.

    If we are serious about building trust in immigration systems, we must commit to infrastructure that is workable, visible and fair.

    Shiva S. Mohan receives funding from the Canada Excellence Research Chair in Migration and Integration Program at Toronto Metropolitan University. He has no other affiliations or financial interests that would benefit from this article.

    – ref. Canada’s proposed Strong Borders Act further threatens the legal rights of migrants – https://theconversation.com/canadas-proposed-strong-borders-act-further-threatens-the-legal-rights-of-migrants-259349

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy votes for rescissions package to eliminate $9 billion in wasteful spending

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)

    WASHINGTON – Senator John Kennedy (R-La.) issued the following statement after the U.S. Senate approved the Trump administration’s rescissions request to cut $9 billion in wasteful spending from the federal budget identified by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). This package, H.R. 4, the Rescissions Act, which accounts for one-tenth of one percent of the federal budget, returns to the U.S. House of Representatives for final consideration. 

    “President Trump ran on a platform of reducing the size of government and cutting unnecessary, wasteful spending. Thanks to his bold leadership and the support of the DOGE team, your hard-earned taxpayer dollars will no longer be wasted on this outrageous spending porn. American taxpayers shouldn’t be footing the bill to fund woke foreign aid or activist media. Their taxpayer money should be spent on initiatives that improve their lives, put more money in their pockets, and protect our great country. I’m eager for the House to pass this bill and send it to President Trump’s desk for his signature,” said Kennedy. 

    Background:

    • The Trump administration’s initial rescissions package totals more than $9 billion in unnecessary spending.
    • This package codifies spending cuts identified by DOGE, including $1.1 billion of cuts from the Corporation of Public Broadcasting (CPB), which provides funding to NPR and PBS, both politically biased and activist media systems, at taxpayers’ expense and $7.9 billion in radical and wasteful foreign aid spending at the Department of State, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), and the U.S. Institute of Peace (USIP), among other programs. 

    Some examples of the wasteful spending porn that the Rescissions Act will cut:

    • $18 million to improve gender diversity in the Mexican street lighting industry. 
    • $6 million for media organizations and civic life for Palestinians.
    • $3.9 million for LGBTQI+ populations in the Western Balkans.
    • $3 million for Iraqi Sesame Street.
    • $2.5 million to teach children how to make environmentally friendly “reproductive health” decisions.
    • $2.4 million to make aid more considerate of “sexual orientation and gender identity.” 
    • $1 million for voter ID in Haiti.
    • $500,000 for electric buses in Rwanda.
    • $500,000 for biodiversity in Peru.

    Legislative Process:

    • The Impoundment Control Act of 1974 requires the Executive Branch to spend the money Congress allocates each year, even though Congress allocated that money when President Biden was in office and Democrats controlled the Senate.
    • Under the Impoundment Control Act, a new administration can attempt to permanently halt previously appropriated spending by submitting a rescissions request for congressional approval. 
    • President Trump did just that. In his initial rescission request, made in May 2025, he asked Congress to rescind roughly $8.3 billion from wasteful foreign aid programs and $1.1 billion from public broadcasting.
    • The U.S. House of Representatives approved these initial cuts on June 12, 2025. The Impoundment Control Act only gives Congress 45 days to approve a rescissions request.

    The full text of H.R. 4, the Rescissions Act, is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Secretary of State attends the 153rd Open at Royal Portrush

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Secretary of State attends the 153rd Open at Royal Portrush

    Tournament returns to Northern Ireland for second time in six years

    Caption: Secretary of State Hilary Benn with The Claret Jug trophy and (L-R) United States Ambassador to the UK Warren A. Stephens and Captain of The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, Ian Pattinson.

    Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Hilary Benn has congratulated the organisers of the 153rd Open at Royal Portrush, and welcomed the significant benefits it will bring to Northern Ireland, following a visit to the event today (Thursday 17 July).

    He said: “This week’s Open championship at Royal Portrush will shine a spotlight on Northern Ireland, showcasing its world-class sports facilities, tourism, and high quality local food and drink.

    “It will give Northern Ireland a real economic boost and will set the stage for future investment and opportunities for Northern Ireland.

    “To be chosen to host the Open twice in six years is a fantastic compliment, and I congratulate the organisers of the 153rd Open at Royal Portrush on having achieved this.”

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: The Honourable Maria V. Carroccia’s Questionnaire

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Under the new judicial application process introduced by the Minister of Justice on October 20, 2016, any interested and qualified Canadian lawyer or judge may apply for federal judicial appointment by completing a questionnaire. The questionnaires are then used by the Judicial Advisory Committees across Canada to review candidates and submit a list of “highly recommended” and “recommended” candidates for consideration by the Minister of Justice. Candidates are advised that parts of their questionnaire may be made available to the public, with their consent, should they be appointed to the bench. The information is published as it was submitted by the candidates at the time they applied, subject to editing where necessary for privacy reasons.

    Below are Parts 5, 6, 7, and 11 of the questionnaire completed by the Honourable Maria V. Carroccia.

    Questionnaire for Judicial Appointment

    PART 5 – LANGUAGE

    Please note that in addition to the answers to the questions set out below, you may be assessed as to your level of language proficiency.

    Without further training, are you able to read and understand court materials in:

    • English: Yes
    • French: No

    Without further training, are you able to discuss legal matters with your colleagues in: 

    • English: Yes
    • French: No

    Without further training, are you able to converse with counsel in court in: 

    • English: Yes
    • French: No

    Without further training, are you able to understand oral submission in court in: 

    • English: Yes
    • French: No

    If you have answered yes to all four questions above, for both English and French, please answer the additional two questions below:

    Without further training, are you able to write decisions in both French and English? *

    Without further training, are you able to conduct hearings in both French and English? *

    *Please note that the Office of the Commissioner for Federal Judicial Affairs may conduct random verifications and assessments of candidates’ language proficiency as stated in their questionnaire.

    PART 6 – EDUCATION

    Name of Institutions, Years Attended, Degree/Diploma and Year Obtained:

    University of Windsor, 1980-1984 Bachelor of Arts, Honours, English Language and Literature

    University of Windsor, Faculty of Law, 1984-1987, Bachelor of Laws

    Continuing Education:

    n/a

    Honours and Awards:

    Special achievement, University of Windsor, Faculty of Law 1986-1987

    PART 7 – PROFESSIONAL AND EMPLOYMENT HISTORY

    Please include a chronology of work experience, starting with the most recent and showing employers’ names and dates of employment. For legal work, indicate areas of work or specialization with years and, if applicable, indicate if they have changed.

    Legal Work History:

    1995-present, self-employed as a Barrister and Solicitor practicing in Windsor, Ontario. Practice restricted to criminal defence;

    1990-1995 Gordner, Klein, Barristers and Solicitors, employed lawyer practicing criminal law;

    1989-1990 Gignac, Sutts Barristers and Solicitors, employed lawyer practicing criminal law.

    Non-Legal Work History:

    1980-1987 part-time Pharmacy Assistant, Patterson Big V Drug Store;

    1980-1986 part-time waitress, Caboto Club of Windsor.

    Other Professional Experience:

    List all bar associations, legal or judicial-related committees of which you are or have been a member and give the lilies and dates of any offices which you have held in such groups.

    Windsor Essex County Criminal Lawyers’ Association, President 20 1 2-present, past president from 1999-2001

    Windsor Justice on Target Leadership Team Committee 2010-2015

    Windsor Criminal Justice Modernization Committee, 2015-present

    Windsor Bail Committee, (Ontario Court of Justice) 2016-present

    Pro Bono Activities:

    n/a

    Teaching and Continuing Education:

    List all legal or judicial educational organizations and activities you have been involved with (e.g. teaching course at a Law Faculty, bar association, National Judicial Institute, Canadian Institute for the Administration of Justice, etc.)

    University of Windsor, Faculty of Law, Criminal Law and Procedure, Sessional Instructor, Winter Term 2011 (taught course together with Michael Gordner)

    Occasional lecturer in various courses at the University of Windsor, Faculty of Law, most recently on Nov. 1 1, 2018 in a course taught by Justice Sharman Bondy: Law Ethics

    Community and Civic Activities:

    List all organizations of which you are a member and any offices held with dates.

    Member of the Board of Directors, Leone Residence for Women, 2008-present

    PART 11 – THE ROLE OF THE JUDICIARY IN CANADA’S LEGAL SYSTEM

    The Government of Canada seeks to appoint judges with a deep understanding of the judicial role in Canada. In order to provide a more complete basis for evaluation, candidates are asked to offer their insight into broader issues concerning the judiciary and Canada’s legal system. For each of the following questions, please provide answers of between 750 and 1000 words.

    1. What would you regard as your most significant contribution to the law and the pursuit of justice in Canada?

    I have been practicing criminal law for about 30 years. During most of that time, I have been a sole practitioner or worked in association with other lawyers. I do not work in a large firm. I view myself as a trial lawyer who “works in the trenches”. My contribution to the law is to represent my clients to the best of my ability, whether they are charged with minor offences or the most serious offences.

    Over the years, I have conducted countless trials in both the Ontario Court of Justice and the Superior Court. I have represented many different people from all walks of life. Some of the trials involved minor charges, while others involved very serious charges where the consequences upon conviction were also serious. While the majority of my clients have lengthy criminal records, I have also represented first time offenders, police officers, lawyers, doctors, and other people who are unfamiliar with our criminal justice system.

    I have always tried my best to ensure that everyone I represented felt that they were treated respectfully and fairly, no matter what the outcome of their matter. As a sole practitioner, sometimes it’s hard to devote the time necessary to every client, but that’s exactly what you have to do. I have to remind myself that while I may have hundreds of files to deal with, for the individual client, their matter is the only one that matters.

    Having said that, I try to maintain a relationship with my clients that allows for communication. In many ways, I am the one who interprets the law for them and explains the criminal justice system to them. Some clients have unrealistic expectations about the outcome of their matter. I have to explain and advise them on their jeopardy, their legal rights, their best course of action. In doing that, I always maintain that I will be honest with my clients, even if the information I am providing to them is not what they want to hear.

    I also have several clients that I’ve represented for over 20 years. I have represented and continue to represent 3 generations of one family. These people trust me and rely on me. I deal with people who very often are at a low point in their lives, facing criminal charges.

    I am mindful of the fact that I stand between the individual and the criminal justice system. In doing so, I try to conduct myself with integrity and honesty and try to accomplish the best possible outcome for my client in the circumstances of their case.

    2. How has your experience provided you with insight into the variety and diversity of Canadians and their unique perspectives?

    Practicing criminal law exposes a lawyer to clients from all walks of life. In my work, it is not unusual for me to deal not only with the client, but with their spouses and families. Their needs are individual, but in many ways, there are similarities. I am mindful of an individual’s background and beliefs and try to be respectful of those. My community is multicultural and as a result, I deal with people from a variety of cultural, racial and religious backgrounds. I find that I can learn from my clients just as they learn from me.

    I try to accommodate their individual needs as much as is reasonably possible in the circumstances. For example, it is my practice to inquire as to whether or not my client identifies as aboriginal since that is a relevant factor to be taken into account at the bail stage or the sentencing stage in criminal matters.

    I must fearlessly advance my client’s case in accordance with his or her instructions while maintaining my obligations as an officer of the Court. I am always mindful of the fact that my client’s perspective is without doubt influenced by his or his background and as a result, I try to make myself aware of his or her background, and I try to ensure that my client has an understanding of the process, whether that involves a guilty plea and sentencing, or a trial.

    I believe it is important to have an understanding of the clients you are serving in order to better represent them.

    3. Describe the appropriate role of a judge in a constitutional democracy.

    All branches of government have a role to play within our democracy. Put simply, the role of a judge is to interpret the law. In the minds of most Canadians, a judge is the embodiment of the law. Therefore, I believe that judges must strive to be above reproach in both their personal and professional lives. They must be fair, open-minded and able to communicate effectively. A judge must be an impartial decision maker.

    It is important to remember that judges do not create the law in a constitutional democracy, they interpret the law and apply it appropriately within the confines of the Constitution Act. One of the most important roles of a judge is to determine whether a law is constitutional or whether actions by the state comply with the requirements of the Charter.

    4. Who is the audience for the decisions rendered by the court(s) to which you are applying?

    The audience for the decisions of the Superior Court of Justice is the average Canadian citizen.

    It is my view that a judge’s decision ought to make sense to an ordinary person, not just to lawyers, scholars and other judges. An individual should be able to understand the decision of a judge and the law upon which it is based even if he or she is not well-versed in the law. The law applies to all Canadian citizens, and judges should keep in mind that in order for the ordinary person to understand the judgment of a Court, they must be able to understand the interpretation of the law set out in that decision.

    It seems that more recently, Courts have been striving to simplify the language used in their decisions so that an ordinary person can understand them more easily. For instance, the Charter is written in simple language so that it can be easily understood.

    The recent decision of the Supreme Court of Canada in Regina v. Jordan garnered a lot of public attention. I believe that it was easily understood by the public because the Court established a simple formula to determine what constitutes unreasonable delay in the context of criminal trials. It is cases such as this one which make the law more easily understood by the public.

    5. Please describe the personal qualities, professional skills and abilities, and life experience that you believe will equip you for the role of a judge.

    I believe that I have an ability to deal with people from different walks of life. In my practice I have dealt with clients, other lawyers, judges, crowns, court staff and members of the public. I do this on a daily basis.

    I believe I have an understanding of both sides of the issues in criminal law despite the fact that I have spent my career defending people charged with criminal offences rather than prosecuting them.

    I have been the President of the Windsor Essex Criminal Lawyers’ Association for the last 6 years and as a result, I have participated in various committees which were made up of stakeholders in both the Ontario Court of Justice and the Superior Court, including judges, crowns, police officers, court staff, lawyers, and corrections officials.

    This allowed me an opportunity to have input into the decision-making process in both levels of courts and to represent the interests of criminal lawyers on those issues.

    I am the mother of two children, and as such, I have developed an ability to balance my professional life with my personal life.

    6. Given the goal of ensuring that Canadians are able to look at the justices appointed to the bench and see their faces and life experiences reflected there, you may, if you choose, provide information about yourself that you feel would assist in this objective.

    I am the oldest child of immigrant parents from Italy. The first generation of my family born in Canada. My parents were not educated. They did not finish grade school, but they valued education for their children. Their first language was not English. My father was a construction worker; my mother was a homemaker. While I was growing up, I was often their intermediary when dealing with government agencies and English-speaking people.

    While they encouraged me to further my education, financially, they were not always able to assist, so I worked part time jobs as a student to pay for my education. They taught me the value of hard work. We have a close-knit and loving large family.

    As a female lawyer practicing criminal law, I was one of a very few when I started my practice in 1989, but I found guidance and mentors among the more established, mostly male criminal lawyers in Windsor. They answered my questions and gave me guidance when I needed it. I try to do that now with the new lawyers when I am asked to.

    I have represented people who have committed violent acts, people with mental illness and people who are substance abusers. A good criminal lawyer has to have the ability to see beyond the “case” and see the person that they are dealing with. In order to do so, you must have a willingness to listen to your client.

    I think it’s important that judges have that understanding of the people who appear before them.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Democratic Women’s Caucus Co-Chairs Kamlager-Dove and Ross Unveil Policy Agenda to Demand a Better Future for Women; Defend Women and Families

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager California (37th District)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Thursday, July 17, the Democratic Women’s Caucus (DWC), led by Policy Task Force Co-Chairs Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) and Deborah Ross (NC-02), released its Better Future policy agenda, focused on economic security, affordable and equitable health care, and the safety of all women and girls. 

    This agenda comes at a time when women and families are under constant attack from the Trump administration and Republicans. From gutting reproductive health care access and cutting Medicaid to slashing food assistance and taking away critical resources for survivors of domestic violence, the Trump Administration and Republicans have launched a full-scale assault on women.

    In the face of these relentless attacks from Trump and Republicans, the Democratic Women’s Caucus is not only dedicated to pushing back and defending women, but also paving a path for a better future for all women and girls.

    That’s why the Better Future policy agenda calls for clear priorities that will actually help women and families across three pillars:

    • Economic Security: Lowering costs, raising salaries, expanding paid leave, protecting Social Security, and investing in care work and women-owned businesses.
    • Health Care: Defending reproductive freedom, expanding access to health care including Medicaid and Medicare, and improving maternal health.
    • Rights & Safety: Ending gender-based violence, protecting voting rights, and confronting discrimination.

    As the Caucus continues to fight back against Trump and Republicans’ attacks on women and families, the Democratic Women’s Caucus is keenly focused on continuing to push for proactive policies that will help women and families achieve a better future.

    Read the full agenda here.

    Para leer la agenda en español, haga clic aquí.

    Democratic Women’s Caucus Executive Steering Committee Members support for the agenda:

    “At 96 women strong, the Democratic Women’s Caucus is fighting every single day for the economic security, health, and safety of all women and girls,” said DWC Chair Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03). “Yes, in this moment we must defend women from Trump’s relentless attacks on our safety, rights, and equal opportunities. But we are also demanding a better future for women and will fight to build a good life for all women. We will never stop pushing for the policies that make life better for women and for all hardworking American families.”

    “As the Trump Administration and Republicans in Congress continue to attack women and families, the Democratic Women’s Caucus is stepping up to demand a better future for women,” said DWC Policy Task Force Co-Chair Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37). “In the wake of record cuts to health care and food assistance, ongoing assaults on our reproductive freedoms, and the largest transfer of wealth in our nation’s history, we must defend our rights and livelihoods while striving for a brighter tomorrow for our daughters, granddaughters, nieces, and beyond. American women can trust that the Democratic Women’s Caucus is fighting for them through the policies outlined in this agenda.”

    “At a time when the rights of women and families are under continuous assault by Donald Trump and his allies, the DWC Policy Agenda meets the moment,” said DWC Policy Task Force Co-Chair Deborah Ross (NC-02). “We are laying out clear steps to lower costs, expand health care, and protect women’s reproductive freedom in the face of Republicans’ extreme attempts to roll back our rights. As Co-Chair of the DWC Policy Task Force, I am proud to unveil this agenda and will keep working toward a future where women and girls have the freedom and opportunity to thrive.”

    “The Democratic Women’s Caucus is dedicated to building a future where every woman can live, work, and raise a family with dignity and security,” said DWC Vice Chair Emilia Sykes (OH-13). “Whether we are working to expand access to reproductive and maternal health care, lower costs for families, protect Social Security, or improve economic opportunity for women, I’m proud to lead these efforts with a coalition committed to putting women and families first.”

    “In West Michigan and across the country, women are calling for real solutions—not political stunts. The Democratic Women’s Caucus is answering that call with a bold, unflinching agenda that demands a better future by defending the rights, health, and safety of women and families,” said DWC Vice Chair Hillary Scholten (MI-03). “From the grocery store to the doctor’s office to the ballot box, women are feeling the weight of Trump and Republicans’ relentless attacks. We are fighting back with policies that lower costs, expand reproductive freedoms, protect care workers, and ensure every woman has the chance to thrive.”

    “I am proud to join my Democratic Women’s Caucus in demanding a better future for women and families. As the Trump administration continues to assault our rights, our health care, and our economic security, we are charting a new path forward. Our agenda is bold and focused on what women need: affordable health care, an economy that works for them, reproductive freedom, and safer communities,” said DWC Communications Task Force Co-Chair Shontel Brown (OH-11).

    “When women and families thrive, our communities thrive. But right now, our freedoms, our healthcare, and our economic security are under attack. I’m proud to serve in a leadership position on Democratic Women’s Caucus and to promote this policy agenda demanding a better future for women, children, and everyone across the country to have the freedom, rights and opportunities we all deserve,” said DWC Member Services Task Force Co-Chair Melanie Stansbury (NM-01).

    “Women and families deserve more—and we won’t wait for it to be handed to us, we are working for it now,” said DWC New Member Liaison LaMonica McIver (NJ-10). “The DWC’s agenda is a demand for a future built for women where costs come down, care is expanded, and everyone has an opportunity to thrive. We are standing together to create that future, and standing against the extremism of the Trump administration and Republicans who are trying to set back the clock.”

    “As a proud member of the Democratic Women’s Caucus, I’m committed to demanding a future where the needs of military families, especially women and children, are prioritized.  That means improving access to safe, affordable, and high-quality child care and addressing the ongoing health care needs of our service members and their families, including their faster access to obstetric and gynecological care, and adequate medical staffing.  These priorities are not just policy, they are essential to the success, readiness, and well-being of the families who serve, support, and sustain our armed forces,” said DWC Servicewomen, Women Veterans, & Military Families Task Force Chair Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06).

    “Right now, women and families are under attack by Trump and Republicans in Congress — from our pregnancies to our paychecks — our autonomy is being eliminated. The Democratic Women’s Caucus is drawing a line in the sand: we demand an economy that works for women, health care that protects us, and communities where our rights and safety come first. This agenda represents our commitment to building a future where every woman and family can thrive with dignity and security,” said DWC Equality Caucus Liaison Julie Johnson (TX-32).

    “As a proud Executive Steering Committee member of the Democratic Women’s Caucus, I’m fighting for women, for families, and for the future we all deserve,” said National Leaders & Advocacy Organizations Liaison Joyce Beatty (OH-03). “Donald Trump and extreme Republicans love to call themselves ‘pro-family’—but ripping away healthcare and food assistance from children and moms, and attacking women’s freedoms, is anything but. You can’t be ‘pro-family’ while pushing policies that hurt moms, kids, and caregivers. Our DWC Agenda delivers what real families need: affordable childcare and healthcare, economic opportunity, reproductive freedom, and safe communities. These are common-sense solutions—and exactly what the majority of Americans support. Because when women rise, America rises.”

    “I have always prioritized giving all women—including Latinas—the tools they need to thrive. But with President Trump’s dangerous policies targeting women and families, it’s more important than ever that we defend the progress we’ve made and find real solutions to support women”, said Congressional Hispanic Caucus Liaison Andrea Salinas (OR-06). “As a Caucus, we demand an economy that works for women and families, better health care, safer communities, and fair pay. Upholding these rights will strengthen our communities for everyone, and I am ready to work alongside my colleagues to ensure that every woman can live without worry or fear.”

    “With Trump and Republicans’ leading a full-scale assault on our fundamental rights, this moment demands a better future for women everywhere,” said DWC Reproductive Health Care Task Force Co-Chair and Liaison Ayanna Pressley (MA-07). “The Democratic Women’s Caucus’ policy agenda lays out how we will continue to fight to support and defend women and families – whether that be by building an inclusive care economy, protecting and expanding reproductive health care, ending gender-based violence, or making gender equality the law of the land. I am proud to work alongside my DWC colleagues as we push back against this hostile Administration and continue to build the more just America that women and families demand and deserve.”

    “Every woman deserves the freedom to care for a loved one without risking her job or paycheck,” said DWC Whip Sarah McBride (DE). “Paid family and medical leave isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity for working families. As Trump tries to strip away our rights and economic security, the Democratic Women’s Caucus is fighting back with a clear, compassionate agenda that focuses on the needs of women and their families. I’m proud to stand with my colleagues to demand the dignity, fairness, and care that every working family deserves.”

    “As a mom and a Member of Congress, I know the challenges women and families face every day—whether it’s finding housing you can afford, accessing healthcare no matter where you live, putting food on the table, or securing a good job and quality education for your kids. These are the kitchen table issues I fight for in Congress and back home in Hawaii,” said DWC Progressive Caucus Liaison Jill Tokuda (HI-02). “That’s why I’m proud to support the Democratic Women’s Caucus’ new policy agenda. It recognizes the essential role women play in building strong families, strong economies, and strong communities, and it defends our rights and the resources we need to thrive.”

    “Women and families deserve an economy that works for them—not one that works for billionaires. The instability and rising costs created by Donald Trump and Republicans have made it harder for women to care for their families and build a secure future. We are fighting for an economy that prioritizes financial security, dignity, and opportunity,” said DWC Chief Whip Nikema Williams (GA-05). “That means lowering everyday costs, ensuring fair taxes, and protecting the basic programs women rely on. It means addressing workplace inequities like wage gaps and the lack of paid leave. It means expanding access to affordable childcare and long-term care, improving conditions for domestic and care workers, and supporting women small business owners.”

    “As a member of DWC’s Executive Steering Committee, I stand united with our 96 members to demand a future where women and families are valued, protected, and empowered. We do not accept the recent attacks on healthcare and food assistance and remain focused on building towards an America that works for everyone, not just the few. Our fight is for fair wages, accessible healthcare, and affordable childcare and long-term care. A country where those who work their entire lives can retire with dignity, where parents feel safe to send their kids to school, and care workers feel valued. I’m proud to join my DWC family in this fight,” said DWC Senate Liaison Debbie Dingell (MI-06).

    “At a time when women’s rights and freedoms are under unprecedented attack, I am proud to stand with the Democratic Women’s Caucus to say loud and clear: we will not go back. Our agenda is a bold commitment to securing economic justice, protecting access to health care and reproductive freedom, and ensuring that every woman can live in safety and dignity regardless of her income or zip code. While Trump and MAGA Republicans work to rip away reproductive health care, gut women’s health research, and more, we are fighting back. And we won’t stop until every woman has the freedoms and resources to thrive,” said DWC Reproductive Health Care Task Force Co-Chair and Liaison Judy Chu (CA-28).

    “Since I was a kid, I’ve watched the women in my life fight every day to be seen, heard, and valued—for their work, their caregiving, their ideas, and their leadership. I’ve seen moms doing everything they can to provide for their families while being overwhelmed and under-supported. I’ve seen women on job sites doing the same work as men but paid less. Women have been clear about what they need: affordable childcare, access to health care, equal pay, and a cost of living that doesn’t force impossible choices. These aren’t new tasks, they’re long-overdue promises. That’s why I’m proud to stand with the Democratic Women’s Caucus to build a safer, more affordable, and equitable future for every woman and girl,” said DWC Whip Emily Randall (WA-06).

    “As an OBGYN who has spent my career caring for women, I’m horrified by how women’s health is under attack in every direction from President Trump and his Republican majority in Congress. With attacks on everything from access to reproductive health care, to contraception, to perpetuating our maternal health care crisis, President Trump and Congressional Republicans are rolling back women’s ability to get the basic, essential care they need. I am proud to stand with the Democratic Women’s Caucus as we not only fight to defend women’s health – but put forward our vision for how we will ensure every woman can get the care she needs to be healthy and thrive,” said DWC Reproductive Health Care Task Force Co-Chair and Liaison Kelly Morrison (MN-03).

    Advocate and ally support for the agenda:

    “Women – and especially women of color – are under attack,” said Jocelyn C. Frye, President of the National Partnership for Women & Families Action Fund. “Women working full-time, year-round are still paid just 83 cents for every dollar paid to men; millions of workers lack access to paid family and medical leave and other caregiving supports; Black women face a maternal mortality crisis; and people across the country confront threats of criminalization for seeking abortion and reproductive health care. But instead of working on solutions to improve women’s health and economic security, President Trump and Republicans in Congress have attacked diversity, equity and inclusion programs, gutted federal agencies charged with protecting women and people of color and passed a tax bill that will threaten the physical health and financial security of millions of people. The National Partnership for Women & Families Action Fund is thrilled to endorse an alternative and affirmative agenda from the Democratic Women’s Caucus that centers women and women of color and champions the policies needed to advance women’s economic security, health and safety.”

    “GIFFORDS is glad to see public safety as a top priority for the Democratic Women’s Caucus. Under the Trump Administration, women are being put at greater risk every day for gun violence. This dangerous administration has rearmed domestic abusers, made it easier for bad gun dealers to stay in business, and loosened restrictions on weapons like gun silencers and short-barreled rifles. Already, we know that abusive partner’s access to a firearm is a serious threat to victims of domestic violence, making it five times more likely that a woman will be killed. We must put a stop to this epidemic and I look forward to working with the DWC to advance their public safety agenda,” said Emma Brown, GIFFORDS Executive Director.

    “Gen Z needs our elected leaders to step up and fight for our futures. The Democratic Women’s Caucus is showing us how they plan to fight for us with their Policy Agenda, and Voters of Tomorrow is proud to endorse this platform. We look forward to working with the Democratic Women’s Caucus, their members, and our allies on and off Capitol Hill to advocate for an Agenda that protects and empowers women and girls amidst ongoing attacks on our freedoms,” Grace Friedman, Policy Director at Voters of Tomorrow.

    “As an organization focused on advancing public policies that address gender, racial, economic, and social justice, CLASP strongly endorses the Democratic Women’s Caucus Executive Action Agenda. To our collective detriment, our nation’s policies have neglected—and often ignored—the needs of women and their families. The Caucus’s agenda boldly promotes what women need to thrive in today’s unpredictable economy— child care, long-term care, paid leave, just wages, workplace protections, health care, retirement security, and more. CLASP supports this ambitious and necessary set of policies. The success of our nation and economy depends on it,” said Wendy Chun-Hoon, President and Executive Director, Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP).

    The agenda is endorsed by:

    • Planned Parenthood Federation of America
    • National Partnership for Women & Families
    • National Women’s Law Center
    • Family Values @ Work
    • The Black Maternal Health Federal Policy Collective
    • National Health Law Program
    • National Council of Jewish Women
    • Equal Rights Advocates
    • GIFFORDS
    • Reproductive Freedom for All
    • MomsRising
    • Sexual Violence Prevention Organization
    • Voters of Tomorrow
    • Center for Law and Social Policy
    • Sexual Violence Prevention Association
    • Justice in Aging
    • Paid Leave for All

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Brownley Introduces Bill to Ensure Federal Employees Access to Personnel Records

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Julia Brownley (D-CA)

    Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA) announced the introduction of the Protecting Federal Employee Rights to Personnel Files Act of 2025, legislation that would prevent the Trump administration from withholding personnel files containing critical documents from current, separated, and retired federal employees. The bill would require federal agencies to provide these records within seven days of the employee’s date of separation. 

    “In a reckless and egregious overreach of power, the Trump administration has carried out mass firings and used aggressive tactics to intimidate and push federal employees out of their jobs,” said Congresswoman Brownley. “To make matters worse, they have shown a blatant disregard for these workers by delaying or outright denying access to personnel files that contain critical documents needed to file taxes, apply for new jobs, or claim unemployment benefits. I introduced this bill to ensure federal employees can access the records they are rightfully entitled to, without delay.”

    “I have heard from federal employees across multiple agencies who have been unable to access their personnel files or who have discovered serious errors in their personnel records with no clear way to correct them,” Brownley continued. “Many were terminated after hours and immediately lost access to their electronic official personnel folders when they were required to return their government-issued devices on the spot. As a result, they were left without the paperwork they need to move forward with their lives, both professionally and personally.”

    “Current and former federal employees have long faced challenges accessing their personnel files in a timely manner, for both professional and personal reasons,” said Randy Erwin, National President of National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE). “While OPM has made progress for current employees, the system still falls short for those with limited or unsecure internet access, and completely excludes former employees. This bill is a game-changer, enabling employees and the government to process critical information more efficiently, allowing both to move forward without unnecessary delays.”

    “In recent months, numerous high-performing, skilled federal employees faced unwarranted termination by this administration. The process through which they were notified was chaotic and disorganized. Questions were left unanswered, and the necessary documentation related to their termination was not provided prior to their dismissal,” said Doreen Greenwald, National President of National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU). “The result is disappointing and heartbreaking: separated employees have been unable to file for unemployment insurance, enroll in new health care plans, and access the resources they need to survive in the wake of their termination. We’ve had reports of employees in the middle of cancer treatment losing their FEHBP insurance while unable to enroll in their spouse’s plan because they lack the required paperwork owed to them. I commend Representative Brownley for introducing this bill to ensure federal employees are provided access to their personnel files and appropriate paperwork so that they are not further harmed by these removals. This bill goes a long way to ensuring they are equipped to face the uncertainty that comes with unemployment; passing it is a matter of common sense and basic respect.” 

    Background

    The Protecting Federal Employee Rights to Personnel Files Act of 2025 will guarantee access to official personnel records for all current and former federal employees — whether separated due to retirement, termination, reassignment to another federal agency, or other circumstances — by:

    • Requiring federal agencies to provide a separated employee with a copy of their official personnel file, in electronic and physical form, no later than 7 days after their date of separation
    • Requiring the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) to furnish a copy of a current employee’s personnel file within seven days upon request
    • Entitling any former employees, who were separated prior to enactment, to their personnel files within 21 days of requesting their files be provided by OPM

    The Protecting Federal Employee Rights to Personnel Files Act of 2025 is endorsed by the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE-IAM), National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU), American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), American Federation of Teachers, American Foreign Service Association (AFSA), Department for Professional Employees, AFL-CIO (DPE), Federal Managers Association (FMA), International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE), IAFF Federal Fire Fighters Joint Council, International Association of Machinists, International Plate Printers Union, National Association of Assistant United States Attorneys (NAAUSA), Professional Managers Association (PMA), Senior Executives Association (SEA), National Association of Agriculture Employees (NAAE), National Weather Service Employees Organization (NWSEO), and Patent Office Professional Association.

    Read the text of the bill here.

    ###

    Issues: 119th Congress

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Former U.S. Department of Energy Official Agrees to Pay $59,000 to Resolve Conflict-of-Interest Allegations

    Source: US State of Vermont

    Andrew L. Horn, a former Senior Advisor to the Secretary of Energy at the Department of Energy (DOE), has agreed to pay $59,000 to resolve allegations that he violated conflict-of-interest rules prior to his departure from the agency in 2021.  

    Among other things, the Ethics Reform Act of 1989 prohibits executive branch employees from participating personally and substantially in particular matters that will affect their own financial interests or the financial interests of certain parties with whom they have ties outside the government, including any organization with whom they are negotiating prospective employment. The United States alleges that in January 2021, Horn worked personally and substantially on a particular matter affecting the financial interests of a private company with which he was simultaneously negotiating contract terms to serve as a paid senior advisor following his upcoming separation from federal service. As part of the settlement, Horn has agreed to pay a civil penalty to resolve allegations that his conduct violated conflict-of-interest prohibitions for federal employees.

    “The Office of Inspector General prioritizes the ethical conduct of executive branch officials and thoroughly investigates all allegations regarding potential misconduct with the thorough help of our colleagues at the Department of Justice,” said Assistant Inspector General for Investigations Lewe F. Sessions of the Department of Energy, Office of Inspector General.

    The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section; DOE, Office of Inspector General; and Department of Defense, Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service. This matter was handled by Trial Attorney Robbin O. Lee of the Civil Division.

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: A Transport Manager in common

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    A Transport Manager in common

    Following a pair of public inquiries, transport manager Michael James has found himself without repute and with a disqualification of considerable length.

    The Traffic Commissioner for the North West, David Mullan heard the cases of De-Luxe Coach Services Ltd and South Derbyshire Coaches Ltd in quick succession. These companies and public inquiries had one notable thing in common, a transport manager who had previously lost and regained his repute.

    Both companies also had a similar range of failings; maintenance deficiencies, unsuitable inspection records and an absence of brake testing.

    Mr. James readily accepted that he had failed in his Transport Manager responsibilities. His passion for buses led to a focus on that as a hobby, alongside a focus on the buying and selling of buses. The commissioner was told that his personality is such that he struggles to delegate. This resulted in him taking on too much responsibility and failing to focus on the important issues.

    Mr Mullan said “Mr. James has failed in his lawful duty to ensure effective and continuous management of the Operator’s transport service. The failures are wide ranging and whilst I recognise that he has obtained certificates showing continuous professional development they actually give me some cause for concern. To be so absent of one’s duties, despite recent training, leaves me questioning how could Mr. James actually be rehabilitated.”

    The transport manager lost his repute and was disqualified for seven years from both holding or obtaining an Operator’s licence and from acting in the capacity of transport manager for any road transport undertaking.

    De-Luxe Coach Services Ltd had its licence revoked but South Derbyshire Coaches Ltd was suspended for 21 days to ensure minimal disruption to school services, and for alternative arrangements to be made for registered services, both of which are reliant upon this operator.

    The full written decisions can be found here and here.

    For any further details or enquiries, please contact: pressoffice@otc.gov.uk

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Record £14.5 billion of export financing supports 70,000 jobs

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Record £14.5 billion of export financing supports 70,000 jobs

    UK economy and workers have benefited from the export credit agency’s highest level of business ever

    • UK Export Finance provided a record £14.5 billion in new financing last year, helping over 667 UK companies to export and grow 

    • Up to 70,000 jobs and £5.4 billion to national GDP supported by UKEF financing, delivering on the government’s Plan for Change 

    • Detailed in UKEF’s annual report for 2024-25, support for UK businesses helps turbocharge the economy and deliver growth opportunities across the country 

    UK Export Finance (UKEF) provided £14.5 billion in loans, guarantees and insurance over the last year and supported tens of thousands of jobs in key industrial sectors around the country, according to its latest accounts published today. 

    UKEF is the UK’s export credit agency and a government department, working alongside the Department for Business and Trade. Established in 1919, it exists to ensure that no viable UK export fails for lack of finance or insurance from the private market, while operating at no net cost to the taxpayer. 

    UKEF provided the highest level of support in its 106-year history in 2024-25 to help 667 UK firms break into international markets and grow as exporters. 

    Businesses benefitting include Yorkshire-based Angloco and Ayrshire-headquartered Emergency One which won contracts to supply 62 fire engines to Iraq after UKEF provided a loan to its Ministry of Finance, and Northern Ireland pressure washer manufacturer Maxflow is entering new markets overseas after it gained access to capital with help of a guarantee provided through UKEF’s General Export Facility. 

    UKEF’s efforts to champion UK exporters supported up to 70,000 jobs including in key industrial sectors like clean energy industries, advanced manufacturing, life sciences and automotive which are central to the government’s Modern Industrial Strategy.  

    Overall, UKEF’s financing in the year backed the contribution of up to £5.4 billion (GDP) to the economy – helping to drive productivity and raise living standards as part of the government’s Plan for Change. 

    Sustainability and helping sectors transition to the low-carbon economy are key priorities for UKEF as part of its 2024-2029 Business Plan, strengthening the government’s efforts to make the UK a clean energy superpower.  

    The department provided £2.3 billion of strategic clean growth financing supporting ventures like the expansion of AESC’s new gigafactory in Teesside – announced by Chancellor Rachel Reeves – producing batteries that will power up to 100,000 electric vehicles a year, and to recycled paper manufacturer Shotton Mill in North Wales that is to become the largest of its kind in the UK and reducing net carbon emissions.  

    Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, said: 

    Our number one mission is delivering growth to put more money in people’s pockets.  

    That’s why we increased UKEF’s lending capacity by billions and have given more flexibility to invest in priority sectors like defence, building on its record levels of support for businesses to export and grow, and the tens of thousands of jobs it has secured.

    Smaller firms remain central to UKEF’s mission to boost exports. The department supported 496 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in 2024/25, of which 83% are based outside of London.  

    Business and Trade Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds, said:

    Our Plan for Change is backing British business to take advantage of export opportunities abroad to create jobs and growth at home. 

    Through record support, UKEF is playing a key role in achieving this, providing financial backing to exporters across the UK looking to grow and compete overseas. 

    UK Export Finance CEO, Tim Reid, added:

    I’m proud of our record-breaking year in which we’ve achieved real impact by forging new strategic global partnerships, boosting hundreds of exporters and supporting tens of thousands of jobs. 

    With customers at the heart of everything we do, we’re committed through our ambitious business plan to helping more British exporters firms succeed globally.  

    We’ve strengthened our products and supported more small businesses too – spreading the benefits of trade across the entire UK. 

    As we continue in our mission, we’re eager to play a key role in supporting the Industrial and Trade Strategies to drive sustainable economic growth.

    Marco Forgione, Director General at Chartered Institute of Export & International Trade, said:

    The record year for UK Export Finance is hugely welcome, and has helped small businesses up and down the country take that first step on their export journey.  

    Finance is often the missing piece in the jigsaw when looking to new markets. Access to the right tools at the right time can turn local ambition into international growth.  

    We now need to keep the momentum going, and help even more small businesses feel confident about exporting their fantastic goods and services around the world.

    Contact

    Media enquiries:

    Notes to editors: 

    1. Under the Direct Lending Facility, UK Export Finance (UKEF) provides loans within an overall limit of £13 billion to overseas buyers, allowing them to finance the purchase of capital goods and/or services from UK exporters. Of that limit, £3 billion has been allocated to support the defence sector. 

    The loans we provide for each transaction can be made in up to 8 currencies, with a value limit of £200 million (although more flexibility may be offered in limited circumstances). 

    1. UKEF’s General Export Facility (GEF) provides partial guarantees to banks to support UK exporters’ overall business growth, rather than being tied to specific export contracts. Eligible firms can use GEF to secure working capital, scale up their operations and position their business for international opportunities.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: New Prime Minister of Ukraine Yulia Sviridenko outlined the priorities of the future Cabinet

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    KYIV, July 17 (Xinhua) — Ukraine’s Prime Minister-designate Yulia Svyrydenko outlined the work priorities of her future government on Facebook on Thursday.

    According to her, the Cabinet of Ministers will take a course towards ensuring military, economic and social self-sufficiency of Ukraine, the positive results of which will be felt by every citizen of the country.

    Yu. Sviridenko noted that during the first six months of work, the new government will have to increase the volume of production of domestic weapons, establish high-quality supplies for the Ukrainian army and increase its level of technological advancement.

    Separately, the head of government promised to support Ukrainian entrepreneurs through comprehensive deregulation, ending pressure on business, accelerating “big” privatization and further implementing effective instruments for providing assistance.

    Yu. Sviridenko also expressed her intention to optimize the state apparatus and reduce budget expenditures.

    Earlier on Thursday, the Verkhovna Rada approved 39-year-old Yulia Svyrydenko as the Prime Minister of Ukraine. Before this appointment, she held the post of First Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Economy of the country. Yulia Svyrydenko became the second woman in the history of independent Ukraine after Yulia Tymoshenko to head the government.

    By the end of the day, parliamentarians are also expected to appoint a new cabinet. –0–

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The Ukrainian Parliament approved the new composition of the government

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    Kyiv, July 17 /Xinhua/ — The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine on Thursday approved the composition of the country’s new government, headed by Yulia Svyrydenko, the Interfax-Ukraine news agency reported.

    Mikhail Fedorov has been appointed First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Transformation.

    Alexey Sobolev headed the newly created united department – the Ministry of Economy, Environment and Agriculture.

    Parliamentarians appointed Taras Kachka, who previously held the post of Deputy Minister of Economy and Trade Representative of the country, as Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration of Ukraine.

    Svetlana Grinchuk has been appointed head of the Ministry of Energy. Before this appointment, she held the post of Minister of Environmental Protection and Natural Resources. At the same time, former Minister of Energy German Galushchenko has been appointed head of the Ministry of Justice.

    Y. Svyrydenko’s predecessor as Prime Minister of Ukraine, Denys Shmyhal, has become the head of the Ministry of Defense.

    Denis Ulyutin, who previously held the position of First Deputy Minister of Finance, has been appointed Minister of Social Policy, Family and Unity.

    Several members of the previous cabinet of ministers were reassigned to their previous posts.

    On Wednesday, the Verkhovna Rada dismissed Prime Minister D. Shmyhal from his post. In accordance with Ukrainian law, the dismissal of the head of government entailed the resignation of all members of the Cabinet. On Thursday, the parliament appointed Yulia Svyrydenko, who previously held the post of First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy, as the new Prime Minister. –0–

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Homeland Security Task Force created in Houston

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    HOUSTON — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations Houston field office and FBI Houston announced the establishment of a regional Homeland Security Task Force July 17 to combat emerging threats from transnational criminal organizations in Southeast Texas.

    The task force was created as a regional component to the national Homeland Security Task Force established by the Department of Homeland Security and Department of Justice pursuant to an executive order issued by President Donald J. Trump on Jan. 29 to protect the American people from invasion by transnational criminals.

    The Houston HSTF’s objective is to end the presence of criminal cartels, foreign gangs and transnational criminal organizations operating in Southeast Texas through a collaborative, whole-of-government approach. To accomplish this mission, the HSTF will conduct intelligence-driven, multijurisdictional investigations targeting drug trafficking, money laundering, weapons trafficking, human trafficking, alien smuggling, homicide, extortion, kidnapping, child exploitation and other transnational crimes. The Houston HSTF will work closely with state and local partners to identify, investigate and eliminate violent criminal organizations and associates operating in communities throughout Southeast Texas.

    “As transnational criminal organizations, foreign terrorist organizations, drug cartels, foreign gangs and other bad actors continue to evolve and become more sophisticated, it’s vital that we work together as a law enforcement community to find transformative ways to confront emerging threats,” said HSI Houston Special Agent in Charge Chad Plantz. “This is especially true in Southeast Texas, where we face a myriad of unique border-related challenges and threats from transnational criminal organizations. By establishing this permanently integrated multiagency task force with dedicated personnel from federal, state and local law enforcement working side-by-side with a common mission, we will be better postured to detect and respond to any type of threat we might face.”

    “Foreign terror organizations who profit off violence, drugs and human lives now face a united front unseen before in Houston,” said FBI Houston Special Agent in Charge Douglas Williams. “For the first time, law enforcement and intelligence agencies are focused on hunting down and eradicating transnational criminals within Houston communities. Federal, state and local police will coordinate with the U.S. Intelligence Community and overseas partners to efficiently eliminate newly designated terrorists wreaking havoc in our neighborhoods.”

    The HSTF will be headquartered in Houston and have a satellite office in Corpus Christi. The heads of HSI Houston and FBI Houston will co-lead the task force with input from a regional executive committee comprised of leaders from participating agencies. Task force personnel will include law enforcement agents, intelligence analysts and professional staff.

    Participating agencies will include the Drug Enforcement Administration, the ATF, the U.S. Marshals Service, the IRS’ Criminal Investigative Division, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Office of Field Operations, the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area director, U.S. attorneys from the Southern and Eastern Districts of Texas, and other federal, state and local partners.

    For more news and information on HSI Houston and the Houston Homeland Security Task Force follow us on X at @HSIHouston or at @FBIHouston.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: State Chief Information Officer Announces Agreement with InnovateUS to Provide Training to State Employees on Responsible Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence

    Source: US State of Oregon

    nterprise Information Services (EIS) has partnered with InnovateUS to launch a series of courses to train state of Oregon employees on the responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) as part of our commitment to building an informed and capable public service workforce. InnovateUS, a leading provider of no-cost training, has developed courses that are specific to public sector employees and use practical examples and exercises to train on artificial intelligence and responsible use.

    “Generative AI is vastly developing, and this training aligns with the work of the State Government Artificial Intelligence Advisory Council that recognized the future of government depends first and foremost on people, supported by technology” said Terrence Woods, Oregon State Chief Information Officer. “This opportunity will provide our workforce with the knowledge and skills to use generative AI in their work responsibly, securely, and effectively.”

    The training is a step towards enabling agencies to educate their teams, so they can appropriately utilize the modern capabilities of GenAI, while also mitigating its potential issues. It supports the goal of being more effective stewards of public resources.

    Generative AI technology offers several benefits to both employees and the public by enhancing government efficiency, improving customer service, streamlining processes, and empowering the workforce with the skills and tools necessary to improve the lives of Oregonians.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: State Chief Information Officer Announces Agreement with InnovateUS to Provide Training to State Employees on Responsible Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence

    Source: US State of Oregon

    nterprise Information Services (EIS) has partnered with InnovateUS to launch a series of courses to train state of Oregon employees on the responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) as part of our commitment to building an informed and capable public service workforce. InnovateUS, a leading provider of no-cost training, has developed courses that are specific to public sector employees and use practical examples and exercises to train on artificial intelligence and responsible use.

    “Generative AI is vastly developing, and this training aligns with the work of the State Government Artificial Intelligence Advisory Council that recognized the future of government depends first and foremost on people, supported by technology” said Terrence Woods, Oregon State Chief Information Officer. “This opportunity will provide our workforce with the knowledge and skills to use generative AI in their work responsibly, securely, and effectively.”

    The training is a step towards enabling agencies to educate their teams, so they can appropriately utilize the modern capabilities of GenAI, while also mitigating its potential issues. It supports the goal of being more effective stewards of public resources.

    Generative AI technology offers several benefits to both employees and the public by enhancing government efficiency, improving customer service, streamlining processes, and empowering the workforce with the skills and tools necessary to improve the lives of Oregonians.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former U.S. Department of Energy Official Agrees to Pay $59,000 to Resolve Conflict-of-Interest Allegations

    Source: United States Attorneys General 7

    Andrew L. Horn, a former Senior Advisor to the Secretary of Energy at the Department of Energy (DOE), has agreed to pay $59,000 to resolve allegations that he violated conflict-of-interest rules prior to his departure from the agency in 2021.  

    Among other things, the Ethics Reform Act of 1989 prohibits executive branch employees from participating personally and substantially in particular matters that will affect their own financial interests or the financial interests of certain parties with whom they have ties outside the government, including any organization with whom they are negotiating prospective employment. The United States alleges that in January 2021, Horn worked personally and substantially on a particular matter affecting the financial interests of a private company with which he was simultaneously negotiating contract terms to serve as a paid senior advisor following his upcoming separation from federal service. As part of the settlement, Horn has agreed to pay a civil penalty to resolve allegations that his conduct violated conflict-of-interest prohibitions for federal employees.

    “The Office of Inspector General prioritizes the ethical conduct of executive branch officials and thoroughly investigates all allegations regarding potential misconduct with the thorough help of our colleagues at the Department of Justice,” said Assistant Inspector General for Investigations Lewe F. Sessions of the Department of Energy, Office of Inspector General.

    The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section; DOE, Office of Inspector General; and Department of Defense, Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service. This matter was handled by Trial Attorney Robbin O. Lee of the Civil Division.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Deadline set for unsafe cladding removal

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Deadline set for unsafe cladding removal

    Strict deadlines for landlords to fix unsafe cladding and over £1 billion allocated to make social tenants safe.

    • New legislation will set strict deadlines for landlords to fix unsafe cladding or face the consequences
    • Next phase of Remediation Acceleration Plan proposes new powers for government to remediate buildings if landlords fail to do so 
    • New joint plan for accelerating social housing remediation backed by over £1 billion in new investment

    Thousands of buildings with unsafe cladding are set to be fixed faster thanks to new legislation and over £1 billion of investment in social housing remediation.

    The government is today (17 July) publishing a joint plan with the social housing sector to accelerate remediation across England, as well as setting out plans for a new law as part of the second phase of the Remediation Acceleration Plan. 

    At the heart of the joint plan on social housing remediation is a commitment by government to invest over £1 billion to give social landlords equal access to government funding schemes as private building owners.  There is no time to waste, and today the Cladding Safety Scheme guidance has been changed so that the equal access policy can be implemented with immediate effect.  

    As part of this work, housing associations, local authorities and regulators are committing to accelerate work to assess and fix social housing buildings, and to improve support to social tenants before, during and after remedial works. 

    A new Remediation Bill is also being brought forward to make sure that landlords are held to account for fixing unsafe cladding and to tackle the slow pace of action across the sector. 

    The legislation – which will be brought forward as soon as parliamentary timetable allows – will require landlords of buildings 18m or more in height with unsafe cladding to complete remediation by the end of 2029, and landlords of buildings 11-18m in height to complete remediation by the end of 2031.  

    Those who fail to comply without reasonable excuse could face unlimited fines or imprisonment. New legislation will also give named bodies, such as Homes England and local authorities, powers to remediate buildings with unsafe cladding if the landlord fails to do so. 

    These reforms will help to make homes safer, reinforcing the government’s mission to restore confidence in building safety, and make sure that tragedies like the Grenfell Tower fire can never happen again. They will also help the sector to build the affordable homes that the country needs.

    Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary, Angela Rayner said:

    “Today we have given social landlords access to over £1 billion to remediate unsafe cladding and make residents safe. The social sector is ready to rise to the challenge and make sure that residents are safe in their homes.

    “We are also today sending a clear message to those responsible for a building still wrapped in unsafe cladding: act now or face the consequences. Our Remediation Bill will include a new duty on you to make your building safe by a specified date, and new powers to impose serious penalties on those who fail to comply with the duty, and ultimately to bypass them if necessary to make the building safe.”

    Building Safety and Fire Minister, Alex Norris said:

    “We are determined to make buildings safe and protect residents. Since publishing our Remediation Acceleration Plan, we’ve made strong progress, and this update goes further to drive accountability and remove barriers to speed up remediation. 

    “There is now a clear pathway to remediate every building with unsafe cladding. We expect everyone to play their part in giving residents and leaseholders the peace of mind that they deserve.”

    Additional support has also been announced for leaseholders, including long-term support to help replace Waking Watch measures and shield leaseholders from costly interim safety measures.  

    For the first time, government funding will also be made available to support fire-safety cladding remediation works on buildings under 11 metres, in exceptional cases where no alternative viable funding route exists.  

    The government has also recently laid regulations for the Building Safety Levy, delivering on a key commitment from the initial Remediation Acceleration Plan.  The levy is expected to raise £3.4 billion over the next decade to help fund remediation and will come into force from October 2026.  

    To maintain the viability of housing delivery, the levy has exemptions for affordable housing, supported housing and for development of fewer than ten dwellings as well as a discount for previously developed land. 

    Through Local Remediation Acceleration Plans, Mayoral Strategic Authorities will work closely with regulators and draw on local expertise to drive progress in their areas.  These locally tailored plans will address unsafe buildings more effectively and ensure residents feel safe in their homes. The government has provided over £5 million to Metro Mayors to support them in this effort. 

    A new National Remediation system, now being rolled out by Homes England, will also support regulators with up-to date building safety data and help hold failing landlords to account.

    Since publication of the Remediation Action Plan in December 2024, 24,000 more residents are living in homes that have been remediated.  Progress is being made, and must continue until every unsafe building is fixed.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn Statement on Senate Passage of Trump Rescissions Package

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX), founding member of the Senate DOGE Caucus, released the following statement after the Senate passed President Trump’s rescissions package, which will codify the Department of Government Efficiency’s (DOGE) cuts to rein in frivolous spending and root out fraud and abuse throughout the federal government:
    “With this rescissions package, President Trump has offered Congress a historic opportunity to rein in frivolous spending identified through the good work of DOGE and ensure Texans’ taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly,” said Sen. Cornyn. “These rescissions exemplify key priorities of the Trump agenda – rooting out wokeism, eliminating fraud, and putting the fiscal interests of hardworking Americans back at the forefront of our policymaking – and I was glad to vote in favor of them.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: IAM Union Issues Statement on Delta Air Lines’ Settlement for Misuse of Taxpayer Pandemic Funds

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    WASHINGTON, July 16, 2025 – Brian Bryant, International President of the 600,000-member IAM Union, and Richie Johnsen, IAM Union Air Transport Territory General Vice President, issued the following statement in response to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia ordering Delta Air Lines to pay $8.1 million to settle alleged false claims act violations related to the Payroll Support Program:  

    “This settlement confirms what the IAM has said since 2020—Delta Air Lines took billions in taxpayer-funded relief money under the condition that workers’ jobs, pay and benefits would be protected, and then violated that agreement. 

    “The U.S. government has now validated our long-standing concerns: Delta’s actions were not just unethical but unlawful. The airline may not have reduced hourly wages, but it used mandatory unpaid leave and reduced scheduling to slash weekly and monthly pay, gutting the very protections the CARES  Act was designed to uphold.

    “In letters to the CEOs of Delta and JetBlue in 2020, 13 Senators led by Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) wrote,  “Your workers supported relief for airlines on the condition that their jobs, pay, and benefits would be protected. On April 23, 2020, the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers wrote you a letter opposing your mandatory time off policy, and noting that, ‘The IAM, along with the all the other AFL-CIO affiliated transportation unions, and Delta JetBlue workers, fought for the federal stimulus to protect airline workers and save the airline industry from the ravages of the novel coronavirus pandemic,’ but that your company is ‘using that good faith support of airline workers around the country and at every carrier to [undermine the interest of your own workforces].’

    “Delta arrogantly ignored the law, its workers, and even direct appeals from members of Congress. This $8.1 million penalty is long overdue, but still falls short of fully compensating the workers and families who were financially harmed.

    “This is just one of many reasons why the IAM is organizing Delta workers across the country. Without a union contract, Delta management alone holds the power. Delta workers deserve a real voice on the job, legal protections, and a union that will fight for them in moments like this.

    “The IAM remains committed to holding any employer accountable for misuse of public funds at the expense of working people. This case should serve as a warning: workers’ rights are not optional, and corporations are not above the law.”

    The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is one of North America’s largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries across the United States and Canada.

    The post IAM Union Issues Statement on Delta Air Lines’ Settlement for Misuse of Taxpayer Pandemic Funds appeared first on IAM Union.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitcoin Mining Just Got Better: VNBTC Rolls Out Bitcoin Cloud Mining Plans Enabling Stable Bitcoin Earnings

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONDON, July 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — VNBTC, the top cloud mining platform, has unveiled its latest AI-powered Bitcoin cloud mining plans designed to provide a stable daily income.It offers automated mining directly from a user’s phone or PC. With millions of users jumping aboard as crypto interest peaks, VNBTC’s new platform adjustments offer simplicity and stable income for anyone looking to turn Bitcoin’s rally into consistent passive earnings.

    How VNBTC Cloud Mining Works

    1. Choose a contract plan or start mining with a Free $79 Trial Bonus
      On signing up, the platform offers a $79 Dogecoin starter bonus, a risk-free way to experience cloud mining. Here are some of the mining plans to choose from.
    2. From the various contract plans offered, choose a suitable Mining Contract
      VNBTC offers a range of transparent contract plans for Bitcoin and other coins. The plans clearly show your investment, earning rate, and contract duration, so miners can clearly see their selection before making a choice. 
    3. Receive Daily Earnings
      VNBTC offers a fixed daily ROI, for example, 1.2% from the starter plan. This is credited to the user’s account every 24 hours and is directly viewable in the user’s dashboard. 
    4. Track your earnings, withdraw earnings, or reinvest in other mining plans.
      Use the VNBTC cloud mining app’s live dashboard for real-time tracking of earnings, hashrate, and energy use. Withdraw your crypto or reinvest anytime you meet the minimum withdrawal amount .
    5. Boost earnings with Referral Bonuses and Bounty programs
      Invite friends to earn 3% commission on direct referrals and 1.8% on indirect referrals. Also, participate in the platform’s bounty campaigns to enhance your passive income .

    What Real Users Are Saying About VNBTC

    VNBTC holds an impressive rating on Trustpilot. This makes the platform one of the top mining platforms. Users frequently praise its reliability, daily payouts, and user-friendliness.

    This is what some of the users say about the top cloud mining platform.

    “VNBTC offers Straight payouts, one of the most promising cloud mining services.”

    “VNBTC offers a clean and simple mining experience, with no hidden fees or surprises.”

    Whether you’re new to crypto or looking to scale your portfolio, VNBTC offers a smoother, smarter path to stable Bitcoin earnings. Start today and mine with no stress, just great results.

    Media Contact:

    James Carter

    Marketing Specialist, VNBTC

    James.Carter@vnbtc.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5dc5b4c1-635e-4de9-86df-dec59ed93f30

    The MIL Network –