Category: Politics

MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The need to establish a dedicated Council configuration on gender equality – E-002421/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002421/2025/rev.1
to the Council
Rule 144
Elena Kountoura (The Left)

Gender equality has been enshrined in the European Treaties since 1957.[1] However, at the current rate of progress, it is estimated that it will take more than 60 years to achieve complete equality between men and women in the EU. Today, the EU has manifold challenges to face in the area of women’s rights and gender equality: eradicating all forms of gender-based violence, closing the gender pay gap between women and men, improving women’s access to the labour market, reinforcing women’s representation in politics and ensuring universal access to sexual and reproductive healthcare and rights.

While the European Parliament has the FEMM Committee at institutional level, so far there is no specific configuration dealing with gender equality in the Council. According to the Council’s Rules of Procedure, the European Council is the body responsible for setting up its configurations.[2]

In view of the above:

1.Does the Council recognise the need to establish a dedicated configuration on gender equality, bringing together equality ministers and deputy ministers, with a view to adopting common policies and legislation on the challenges in the area of women’s rights and gender equality?

2.Is the Council committed to inviting the European Council to set up such a configuration, so that equality matters are discussed at the highest political level in the EU?

Submitted: 16.6.2025

[1] Article 157 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) sets out that men and women should receive equal pay for equal work and authorises the taking of positive measures to empower women. Article 153 of the same Treaty allows for Union action in the wider domain of equal opportunities and equal treatment in the workplace and employment. Furthermore, Article 19 of the TFEU establishes the possibility of adopting legislation to combat all forms of discrimination, including on the basis of sex.

[2] The establishment of new Council configurations is mainly based on Article 16(6) TEU, which establishes that the Council is to meet in different configurations, the list of which is to be adopted in accordance with Article 236 TFEU. The European Council, acting by qualified majority, has the power to determine or amend the list of Council configurations.
Last updated: 2 July 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Egypt: President El-Sisi Speaks with President of Ukraine Zelensky

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Today, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi received a phone call from President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky.

Spokesman for the Presidency, Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy, said the two Presidents discussed the latest developments in the Russian-Ukrainian crisis. President El-Sisi emphasized the crucial importance of reaching diplomatic and political solutions, stressing the imperative to prioritize dialogue as a means of resolving the current crisis. The President reaffirmed Egypt’s full support for all efforts aimed at reaching a peaceful settlement at the earliest time possible.

The call also focused on developments in the Middle East and ways to restore regional stability. The two sides underscored the necessity of upholding the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Iran, affirming the urgent need to resume negotiations as a pathway to a peaceful resolution of the crisis. President El-Sisi also reviewed Egypt’s ongoing efforts to secure a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and ensure the delivery of desperately-needed humanitarian aid and assistance.

President El-Sisi and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy also tackled ways to strengthen bilateral relations and explored prospects for cooperation across various fields, particularly in the economic, trade, and investment sectors, in a manner that serves the interests of both countries and their peoples.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Presidency of the Arab Republic of Egypt.

MIL OSI Africa –

July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: NEWS: Sanders Statement on Paramount’s Decision to Settle Trump’s Bogus Lawsuit Against 60 Minutes

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Vermont – Bernie Sanders

WASHINGTON, July 2 – Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) today released a statement on Paramount’s decision to settle Trump’s bogus lawsuit against the program 60 Minutes.

The decision by the Redstone family, the major owners of Paramount, to settle a bogus lawsuit with President Trump over a 60 Minutes report he did not like is an extremely dangerous precedent in terms of both the First Amendment and government extortion.

Paramount’s decision will only embolden Trump to continue attacking, suing and intimidating the media which he has labeled “the enemy of the people.” It is a dark day for independent journalism and freedom of the press — an essential part of our democracy. It is a victory for a president who is attempting to stifle dissent and undermine American democracy.

It’s pretty obvious why Paramount chose to surrender to Trump. The Redstone family is in line to receive $2.4 billion from the sale of Paramount to Skydance, but they can only receive this money if the Trump administration approves this deal. In other words, the Redstone family diminished the freedom of the press today in exchange for a $2.4 billion payday.

Make no mistake about it. Trump is undermining our democracy and rapidly moving us towards authoritarianism and the billionaires who care more about their stock portfolios than our democracy are helping him do it.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: NEWS: Baldwin Statement on Wisconsin Supreme Court Striking Down 1849 Abortion Ban

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) released the following statement on the Wisconsin Supreme Court ruling that strikes down the 1849 state law that had banned abortions in nearly every situation that went into effect after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade:

“Three years ago, the activist U.S. Supreme Court stripped millions of Americans of their constitutional right to make their own health care decisions, sending Wisconsin women to live under an 1849 criminal abortion ban. This archaic criminal abortion ban was passed before the Civil War, decades before women had the right to vote, and just a year after Wisconsin became a state,” said Senator Baldwin. “Today’s ruling tells women across Wisconsin that we will not go back. Today’s ruling tells women that our government trusts you to make decisions about your own body and your future. Today’s ruling tells women in our state that they are not second-class citizens. But, this fight is not over. Every woman, in every zip code, in every state deserves the same rights and freedoms. I will not stop fighting until we make that a reality and pass my bill to restore the right to abortion nationwide and allow women to make their own health care decisions without interference from judges or politicians.”

Senator Baldwin has long led the charge to restore abortion access nationwide, including leading the entire Senate Democratic caucus in introducing the Women’s Health Protection Act of 2025, legislation to guarantee access to abortion everywhere across the country and restore the right to comprehensive reproductive health care for millions of Americans. Last week, Senator Baldwin spoke on the Senate floor, underscoring the impact of the Dobbs decision in Wisconsin, which forced women to travel out of state just to access health care. Additionally, Senator Baldwin has introduced the Right to Contraception Act, a bill at the federal level to put into law Americans’ right to contraception, which the Supreme Court first recognized more than half a century ago in its Griswold v. Connecticut decision, and the Reproductive Health Travel Fund Act, legislation to provide women the support they need to access reproductive health services by providing grants to organizations, including abortion funds, to offset the cost of travel-related expenses.

A video of Senator Baldwin’s floor speech from the anniversary of Roe v. Wade is available for download here.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Georgia Republicans Join Warnock in Bipartisan Fight to Save Jobs from Senate GOP Tax Bill

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

Georgia Republicans Join Warnock in Bipartisan Fight to Save Jobs from Senate GOP Tax Bill

Today, Republican members of the Georgia State Legislature urged Senate Finance Committee leadership to preserve solar deployment and manufacturing credits, per Axios

Senator Reverend Warnock has been a fierce advocate for protecting manufacturing jobs in Georgia, which are at risk as the Senate GOP looks to fund a billionaire tax cut

Senator Warnock released a report that found that repealing clean energy tax credits could cost Georgia up to 42,000 jobs

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) was joined by 16 Georgia Republican state lawmakers in calling for the preservation of the Advanced Manufacturing Production Tax Credit (AMPTC) and solar deployment tax credits, which will help create thousands of Georgia jobs. The GOP letter states that protecting these tax credits, which were championed by Senator Warnock, will “secure America’s energy supply and promote Georgia’s manufacturing jobs and investments.”

“I’m glad Georgia Republicans are joining my commonsense effort to protect Georgia jobs and pro-business tax credits from the GOP tax bill,” said Senator Reverend Warnock.“Cynical Washington politicians are trying to kill Georgia jobs, which overwhelmingly benefit rural and Republican districts, in order to fund a tax cut for billionaires. If Washington were serious about bringing American manufacturing back to the United States, they would listen to these GOP lawmakers.”

The GOP letter follows the release of the Senator’s comprehensive report that found Georgia risks losing up to 42,000 good-paying jobs if Washington Republicans repeal the clean energy tax credits. Since the tax credit’s passage as part of the Inflation Reduction Act, clean energy jobs and investments exploded across the country, but nowhere was that growth more potent than in Georgia. In less than three years, 51 new projects in Georgia worth over $28 billion have been announced or boosted by the clean energy tax credits. According to the Senator’s report, in Georgia, nearly all the new investments and new jobs are in counties outside of the Atlanta region. Over 70 percent of the new investments and 83 percent of new jobs are in counties with median family incomes below the national median. More than 95 percent of the new jobs and investments are in counties where the percentage of people with a bachelor’s degree is below the national average.

Last month, Senator Warnock returned to his hometown to continue his public pressure campaign urging Congressional Republicans to protect clean energy tax credits fueling an expected 42,000 Georgia clean energy jobs. He also authored an op-ed in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Georgia’s paper of record, making the case for protecting these good-paying jobs.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister Carney meets with the Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association

Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

Today, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, met with the leadership of the Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association and member CEOs.

Prime Minister Carney and the leaders discussed ongoing negotiations with the United States, and the work to pursue a deal by July 21, 2025. They discussed the impacts on the sector and the need to build up a made-in-Canada supply chain as well as diversify our trading partners.

The Prime Minister underscored the federal measures to safeguard Canadian auto workers and businesses from unjust tariffs, and the adjustment of counter-tariffs on July 21 based on the state of negotiations. Prime Minister Carney affirmed that the government’s focus remains on securing the best deal for Canadian workers and industries.

The leaders also discussed opportunities to make Canada’s auto sector more sustainable and competitive in the face of shifting trade relationships, market conditions, and supply chains.

MIL OSI Canada News –

July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Hlabisa honours memory of lives lost in Eastern Cape floods

Source: South Africa News Agency

During his department’s Budget Vote presentation on Wednesday, Velenkosini Hlabisa, the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, took a moment to honour the lives lost in the recent catastrophic disaster that occurred just two weeks ago.

This tragedy claimed the lives of approximately 102 people in the Eastern Cape.

This follows the South African Weather Service’s prediction of severe weather, including heavy rainfall, snow and strong winds, which led the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Free State, and KwaZulu-Natal to activate their disaster response plans.

However, the Eastern Cape experienced particularly devastating impacts, with torrential rains leading to unprecedented floods in districts such as Nelson Mandela Bay, Chris Hani, and OR Tambo.

“Families lost everything in a matter of hours. Sadly, over 100 South Africans – children, parents, and grandparents – lost their lives,” the Minister said.

The severe floods not only washed away homes and infrastructure, but Hlabisa said they also shattered the very fabric of families and communities, leaving thousands homeless and schools submerged.

In a moment of reflection, the Minister extended condolences to those affected: “On behalf of the Ministry and the Departments of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, we offer our deepest condolences to every grieving family and to every person who has lost not only a loved one but also a sense of stability and hope.”

As a mark of respect, the National Assembly observed a minute of silence in honour of the deceased.

Meanwhile, in response to the devastation, the Minister has since authorised the National Disaster Management Centre to officially classify the events as a National Disaster, facilitating immediate and necessary interventions.

“We are now urgently working to support the affected provinces and municipalities, not just with words but with the resources they need to recover and rebuild,” the Minister said.

Meanwhile, he announced that technical assessment teams have already been deployed, with work being coordinated through the Municipal Infrastructure Support Agent (MISA) to evaluate the damage to essential infrastructure, including roads, bridges and sanitation systems.

“This powerful partnership strengthens our rapid response and operational readiness during emergencies,” the Minister added, highlighting the collaboration with the South African National Defence Force to enhance national capacity.

In addition, the Minister said South Africa is concurrently holding the Presidency of the Group of 20 (G20), focusing specifically on disaster risk reduction.

“Through the G20, we learn from the world and share our experiences,” said the Minister.

He stressed the significance of global cooperation in addressing disaster-related challenges.

With the first G20 technical meeting having taken place earlier this year in KwaZulu-Natal, Hlabisa said attention now turns to the second meeting scheduled for next week in Johannesburg.

The working group will address critical areas such as ecosystem-based approaches and nature-based solutions for disaster risk reduction, disaster-resilient infrastructure, and strategies for disaster recovery, rehabilitation, and reconstruction.

“These focus areas are more than just abstract policy themes; they are lifelines for the future,” the Minister stated.

“They are the answers we seek when we ask: How do we prevent the next floods from becoming a national tragedy? How do we ensure communities bounce back stronger, not just survive?”

As South Africa continues to grapple with the repercussions of this disaster, he said the country is now shifting its commitment to recovery, resilience, and international collaboration.

The Minister also announced a budget allocation for Cooperative Governance amounting to R410.9 billion over the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) period.

He said that a staggering 96.7% of this budget is earmarked for intergovernmental transfers and support to various entities that deliver tangible and measurable improvements in the lives of South Africans.

In addition to the allocations for Cooperative Governance, Hlabisa said Traditional Affairs will see an appropriated budget of R195 530 million for the fiscal year 2025/26. – SAnews.gov.za

MIL OSI Africa –

July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Exclusive: China plays a significant role in maintaining international order and multilateralism – Kyrgyz expert

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

BISHKEK, July 2 (Xinhua) — China offers an alternative path to global governance that is focused on justice and mutual benefit. The country plays an important role in maintaining international order and multilateral cooperation, Kyrgyz political scientist, professor of international relations at Ala-Too International University Kubanychbek Taabaldiev said in an interview with Xinhua.

Historically, China has thought in global terms, he said. With centuries of wisdom, China’s rulers have always put stability at home and in their neighbors first, and the current Chinese leadership continues to adhere to this philosophy.

“The growth of China’s image in the international arena is the result of the country’s strategic, multi-layered approach to all aspects of modernity, and especially to global positioning,” noted K. Taabaldiev, adding that this can be regarded as evidence of China’s increased influence in world affairs, in particular in the context of strengthening the country’s economic, technological and diplomatic power.

As the expert pointed out, China has become one of the world’s leading economic centers, a major trading partner for many countries and an important investor, especially within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative. He drew attention to the fact that the implementation of this initiative and the results already being achieved have strengthened the positive perception of China in the Global South.

“In an increasingly complex world undergoing fundamental changes and major global political players trying to maintain their superiority, China, with its pragmatic foreign policy and measured response to crises, plays a significant and growing role in maintaining the international order and multilateral cooperation,” the Xinhua source emphasized.

This year marks the 80th anniversary of the founding of the UN. K. Taabaldiev noted that China, as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, actively participates in peacekeeping missions, as well as in global agreements on sustainable development, climate conservation and security.

“China adheres to the position of recognizing the role of the UN in the world order and consistently supports its efforts in resolving international problems through its institutions,” the political scientist stated, pointing out that China opposes unilateral approaches in resolving international problems, the policy of double standards and the dominance of individual states in the international system, emphasizing the importance of true multilateralism.

“It is clear that China is demonstrating a desire to form a more just, inclusive and multipolar system of international relations,” the expert added.

Speaking about the three global initiatives put forward by China (the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, the Global Civilization Initiative) and the concept of a community with a shared future for humanity, K. Taabaldiev noted that they find understanding and support in the international community, including the countries of the Global South.

“China’s initiative to form a community with a shared future for mankind and the launch of three global initiatives demonstrate the country’s desire to make an active contribution to rethinking and reforming the global governance system. This means that China offers an alternative path to global governance that is focused on inclusiveness, fairness and mutual benefit,” said K. Taabaldiev.

In his view, China’s indicative effect in the global economy is that over the past decades it has demonstrated rapid economic growth, infrastructure modernization, and the fact that poverty reduction is possible when based on its own realities and priorities.

“The basis for such effective changes was the country’s development model, which is based on a combination of state strategic planning and market mechanisms. And this model attracts the attention of many countries around the world. China’s economic successes and the changes caused by this within the country have an impact on the Global South,” the expert said.

China’s policy, as K. Taabaldiev noted, is aimed at strengthening international cooperation, and this is already being implemented through the Belt and Road initiative, as well as bilateral and multilateral agreements. China provides a platform for the development of trade, investment and exchange of experience, creating opportunities for mutually beneficial growth.

Touching upon the Chinese model of people’s democracy, the political scientist emphasized that it represents a unique political approach, visibly different from Western models of governance. The main thing here is that the Chinese system involves the entire population of the country in governance through the implementation of the policy of the ruling political force in the interests of both the state and the people. Such a policy promotes broad participation of the people from the stage of discussing ideas to the stage of implementing decisions. And for the countries of the Global South, K. Taabaldiev is sure, this can be a source of inspiration in several aspects.

“Firstly, the path to development and stability can be built on its own cultural, historical and institutional foundations, rather than by copying Western models. Secondly, the Chinese governance system emphasizes practical efficiency, consensus, long-term planning and broad participation of the population in solving specific problems,” the expert said, adding that China has introduced a new concept of democracy with national specifics into world politics, which presupposes the formation of a society of cultural diversity. -0-

MIL OSI Russia News –

July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: DOJ-HHS False Claims Act Working Group
Source: United States Attorneys General

Healthcare fraud and abuse depletes taxpayer funds, corrodes public health and safety, and undermines the integrity of the federal healthcare system. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) have a long history of partnering to use one of the government’s most effective and successful tools — the False Claims Act (FCA) — to combat healthcare fraud. This Administration is fully committed to supporting such work. HHS and DOJ’s Civil Division are strengthening their ongoing collaboration to advance priority enforcement areas through the DOJ-HHS False Claims Act Working Group.

Membership in the DOJ-HHS False Claims Act Working Group will include leadership from the HHS Office of General Counsel, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Center for Program Integrity, the Office of Counsel to the HHS Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), and DOJ’s Civil Division, with designees representing U.S. Attorneys’ Offices. The group will be jointly led by the HHS General Counsel, Chief Counsel to HHS-OIG, and the Deputy Assistant Attorney General of the Commercial Litigation Branch.

As part of the Working Group’s coordination work:
- HHS shall make referrals to DOJ of potential violations of the FCA that reflect Working Group priorities. In addition to priority FCA matters previously announced by the Assistant Attorney General of the Civil Division,[1] the Working Group is announcing the following priority enforcement areas:
  - Medicare Advantage
  - Drug, device or biologics pricing, including arrangements for discounts, rebates, service fees, and formulary placement and price reporting
  - Barriers to patient access to care, including violations of network adequacy requirements
  - Kickbacks related to drugs, medical devices, durable medical equipment, and other products paid for by federal healthcare programs
  - Materially defective medical devices that impact patient safety
  - Manipulation of Electronic Health Records systems to drive inappropriate utilization of Medicare covered products and services
- The Working Group shall maximize cross-agency collaboration to expedite ongoing investigations in these priority areas and identify new leads, including by leveraging HHS resources through enhanced data mining and assessment of HHS and HHS-OIG report findings.
- The Working Group shall discuss considerations bearing on whether HHS should implement a payment suspension pursuant to 42 U.S.C. § 405.370 et seq. or whether DOJ shall move to dismiss a qui tam complaint under 31 U.S.C. § 3730(c)(2)(A), consistent with Justice Manual Section 4-4.111.
The DOJ-HHS False Claims Act Working Group encourages whistleblowers to identify and report violations of the federal False Claims Act involving priority enforcement areas. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement can be reported to HHS at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477). Similarly, the Working Group encourages healthcare companies to identify and report such violations consistent with Justice Manual Section 4-4.112.

Note: Read a PDF version of the release here

[1] Brett A. Shumate, Assistant Attorney General, Civil Division Enforcement Priorities (June 11, 2025), available at www.justice.gov/civil/media/1404046/dl?inline.

MIL Security OSI –
July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: DOJ-HHS False Claims Act Working Group
Source: United States Attorneys General

Healthcare fraud and abuse depletes taxpayer funds, corrodes public health and safety, and undermines the integrity of the federal healthcare system. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) have a long history of partnering to use one of the government’s most effective and successful tools — the False Claims Act (FCA) — to combat healthcare fraud. This Administration is fully committed to supporting such work. HHS and DOJ’s Civil Division are strengthening their ongoing collaboration to advance priority enforcement areas through the DOJ-HHS False Claims Act Working Group.

Membership in the DOJ-HHS False Claims Act Working Group will include leadership from the HHS Office of General Counsel, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Center for Program Integrity, the Office of Counsel to the HHS Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), and DOJ’s Civil Division, with designees representing U.S. Attorneys’ Offices. The group will be jointly led by the HHS General Counsel, Chief Counsel to HHS-OIG, and the Deputy Assistant Attorney General of the Commercial Litigation Branch.

As part of the Working Group’s coordination work:
- HHS shall make referrals to DOJ of potential violations of the FCA that reflect Working Group priorities. In addition to priority FCA matters previously announced by the Assistant Attorney General of the Civil Division,[1] the Working Group is announcing the following priority enforcement areas:
  - Medicare Advantage
  - Drug, device or biologics pricing, including arrangements for discounts, rebates, service fees, and formulary placement and price reporting
  - Barriers to patient access to care, including violations of network adequacy requirements
  - Kickbacks related to drugs, medical devices, durable medical equipment, and other products paid for by federal healthcare programs
  - Materially defective medical devices that impact patient safety
  - Manipulation of Electronic Health Records systems to drive inappropriate utilization of Medicare covered products and services
- The Working Group shall maximize cross-agency collaboration to expedite ongoing investigations in these priority areas and identify new leads, including by leveraging HHS resources through enhanced data mining and assessment of HHS and HHS-OIG report findings.
- The Working Group shall discuss considerations bearing on whether HHS should implement a payment suspension pursuant to 42 U.S.C. § 405.370 et seq. or whether DOJ shall move to dismiss a qui tam complaint under 31 U.S.C. § 3730(c)(2)(A), consistent with Justice Manual Section 4-4.111.
The DOJ-HHS False Claims Act Working Group encourages whistleblowers to identify and report violations of the federal False Claims Act involving priority enforcement areas. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement can be reported to HHS at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477). Similarly, the Working Group encourages healthcare companies to identify and report such violations consistent with Justice Manual Section 4-4.112.

Note: Read a PDF version of the release here

[1] Brett A. Shumate, Assistant Attorney General, Civil Division Enforcement Priorities (June 11, 2025), available at www.justice.gov/civil/media/1404046/dl?inline.

MIL Security OSI –
July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Open for Business: Gabon Launches Deepwater Exploration Drive

Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

The newly appointed Minister of Oil and Gas of Gabon HE Sosthène NGUEMA is shifting its focus to deepwater oil and gas exploration under efforts to bring new projects online and mitigate Central and West African production decline. With 72% of the country’s deepwater acreage unexplored and only 28% developed to date, the country has set plans in motion to revise existing petroleum laws to offer fresh incentives that encourage deepwater exploration and investment.

As the voice of the African energy sector, the African Energy Chamber (AEC) commends the aggressive investment strategy being implemented by the Ministry of Petroleum. In recent months, we have seen an assertive Gabonese Government, through its NOC Gabon Oil, play a stronger role in the ownership, and commercialization of legacy assets with takeovers such as that of Carlyle owned Assala. Now, the shift to deepwater exploration offers new investment prospects for foreign operators. The AEC believes that ongoing regulatory reforms, a focus on deepwater investments and greater collaboration with international oil companies (IOC) will transform Gabon’s oil and gas industry, supporting greater production and the development of a new hub for refined product distribution in Central Africa. We believe that Gabon has a potential to produce close to 1 million barrels of oil per day.

With over two billion barrels of proven oil reserves and significant gas potential, Gabon has set a goal of holding production above 220,000 barrels per day (bpd) for the short to midterm The shift to deepwater exploration stands to play an instrumental part in supporting this goal by unlocking new discoveries across the country’s offshore basins mid to long term. Regulatory reform represents a cornerstone of the country’s exploration strategy, with potential improvements to petroleum legislation set to strengthen the competitiveness of investing in Gabon’s deepwater blocks. In 2019, the country introduced its Hydrocarbons Code. The new government seeks to go even further, recognizing the presence of stiff competition from other offshore destinations globally. The code featured amendments to production sharing contracts (PSC), state profitability and tax, therefore providing a quicker path to profitability for foreign operators. Looking ahead, further revisions of this code stand to support new investment, encouraging deepwater exploration and new forays by global operators.

Major players are already active in Gabon, with ongoing developments underscoring the potential available across Gabon’s offshore blocks. Exploration and production company BW Energy, for example, signed PSCs for exploration blocks Niosi Marin and Guduma Marin in 2024, covering an eight-year exploration period with a two-year extension option. BW Energy and its partner on the block VAALCO Energy have committed to drilling one well as well as carrying out a 3D seismic acquisition campaign. BW Energy also has stakes in the Dussafu license, which features 14 producing wells tied back to a FPSO through a 20km pipeline. Partners on the license include the state-owned Gabon Oil Company (GOC) and Panoro Energy. Independent oil and gas company Perenco spud the Hylia South West discovery in Gabon in early 2024, revealing substantial oil-bearing columns in the Ntchengue Ocean reservoir. Chinese oil firm CNOOC launched wildcat drilling on Blocks BC-9 and BCD-10 in early-2023 on the back of 1.4 billion barrels of recoverable resource potential, with future discoveries set to double Gabonese oil production while de-risking deepwater exploration. Despite these developments, much of Gabon’s deepwater potential remains underexplored, highlighting a strategic opportunity for both active and potential players.

Increased hydrocarbon production in tandem with future deepwater discoveries are expected to support Gabon’s broader goals of creating a regional petroleum hub in Gabon. Strategically positioned on the West coast of Central Africa, Gabon is making strides towards enhancing oil and gas refining, storage and distribution capacity. Major infrastructure projects signal the country’s intention to become a petroleum hub. Notably, Perenco is advancing the development of the Cap Lopez LNG terminal in Gabon, targeting first production by 2026. Situated at the existing Cap Lopez oil terminal, the $2 billion project will introduce a FLNG vessel designed to monetize offshore gas reserves and reduce flaring. The FLNG vessel will feature a production capacity of 700,000 tons of LNG and 25,000 tons of LPG, supported by a storage capacity of 137,000 cubic meters. The project complements the Batanga LPG facility, which came online in December 2023 with a target production capacity of 15,000 tons of LPG annually. Beyond LNG and LPG, Gabon is working towards enhancing refining capacity with plans to expand its sole operating refinery – SOGARA – from 1.2 million tons to 1.5 million tons of crude. This expansion would enable the country to achieve self-sufficiency in refined petroleum products by 2030.

The minister and his team have also prioritized the increase of storage capacity for refined products in the country from currently 60 days to 90 days of consumption in an effort to strengthen energy security and make shortages an element of the past.

“Deepwater exploration and production stands to transform Gabon’s economy, with potential discoveries supporting the development of a new petroleum hub in Central Africa. Through its aggressive investment campaign, commitment to regulatory reform and engagement with IOCs, the Ministry of Petroleum is strengthening the competitiveness of doing business in Gabon,” states Verner Ayukegba, Senior Vice President at the AEC.

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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MIL OSI Africa –

July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: DOJ-HHS False Claims Act Working Group
Source: US State of North Dakota

Healthcare fraud and abuse depletes taxpayer funds, corrodes public health and safety, and undermines the integrity of the federal healthcare system. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) have a long history of partnering to use one of the government’s most effective and successful tools — the False Claims Act (FCA) — to combat healthcare fraud. This Administration is fully committed to supporting such work. HHS and DOJ’s Civil Division are strengthening their ongoing collaboration to advance priority enforcement areas through the DOJ-HHS False Claims Act Working Group.

Membership in the DOJ-HHS False Claims Act Working Group will include leadership from the HHS Office of General Counsel, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Center for Program Integrity, the Office of Counsel to the HHS Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), and DOJ’s Civil Division, with designees representing U.S. Attorneys’ Offices. The group will be jointly led by the HHS General Counsel, Chief Counsel to HHS-OIG, and the Deputy Assistant Attorney General of the Commercial Litigation Branch.

As part of the Working Group’s coordination work:
- HHS shall make referrals to DOJ of potential violations of the FCA that reflect Working Group priorities. In addition to priority FCA matters previously announced by the Assistant Attorney General of the Civil Division,[1] the Working Group is announcing the following priority enforcement areas:
  - Medicare Advantage
  - Drug, device or biologics pricing, including arrangements for discounts, rebates, service fees, and formulary placement and price reporting
  - Barriers to patient access to care, including violations of network adequacy requirements
  - Kickbacks related to drugs, medical devices, durable medical equipment, and other products paid for by federal healthcare programs
  - Materially defective medical devices that impact patient safety
  - Manipulation of Electronic Health Records systems to drive inappropriate utilization of Medicare covered products and services
- The Working Group shall maximize cross-agency collaboration to expedite ongoing investigations in these priority areas and identify new leads, including by leveraging HHS resources through enhanced data mining and assessment of HHS and HHS-OIG report findings.
- The Working Group shall discuss considerations bearing on whether HHS should implement a payment suspension pursuant to 42 U.S.C. § 405.370 et seq. or whether DOJ shall move to dismiss a qui tam complaint under 31 U.S.C. § 3730(c)(2)(A), consistent with Justice Manual Section 4-4.111.
The DOJ-HHS False Claims Act Working Group encourages whistleblowers to identify and report violations of the federal False Claims Act involving priority enforcement areas. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement can be reported to HHS at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477). Similarly, the Working Group encourages healthcare companies to identify and report such violations consistent with Justice Manual Section 4-4.112.

Note: Read a PDF version of the release here

[1] Brett A. Shumate, Assistant Attorney General, Civil Division Enforcement Priorities (June 11, 2025), available at www.justice.gov/civil/media/1404046/dl?inline.

MIL OSI USA News –
July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney’s Office Participates in Record-Setting National Health Care Fraud Takedown
Source: US FBI

Largest Justice Department Health Care Fraud Takedown in History Results in 324 Defendants, Over $14.6 Billion in Alleged Fraud
LAS VEGAS – Today, United States Attorney Sigal Chattah announced criminal charges against two defendants in the District of Nevada in connection with the Justice Department’s 2025 National Health Care Fraud Takedown, which resulted in criminal charges against 324 defendants, including 96 doctors, nurse practitioners, pharmacists, and other licensed medical professionals, in 50 federal districts and 12 State Attorneys General’s Offices across the United States, for their alleged participation in various health care fraud schemes involving over $14.6 billion in intended loss. The Takedown involved federal and state law enforcement agencies across the country and represents an unprecedented effort to combat health care fraud schemes that exploit patients and taxpayers.

“This record-setting Health Care Fraud Takedown delivers justice to criminal actors who prey upon our most vulnerable citizens and steal from hardworking American taxpayers,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Make no mistake – this administration will not tolerate criminals who line their pockets with taxpayer dollars while endangering the health and safety of our communities.”

“As alleged, the defendants – a registered nurse and a nurse practitioner – applied medically unnecessary allografts and received millions in illegal kickbacks from the fraudulent claims to Medicare and other health care benefit programs,” said United States Attorney Chattah for the District of Nevada. “Together with the FBI and the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, we will pursue and hold criminals accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes.”

According to court documents, the following individuals were charged in the District of Nevada:
- Paulino Gonzalez, 40, of Las Vegas, Nevada, was charged by information with conspiracy to defraud the United States and pay and receive kickbacks for participating in a $94 million scheme to order, recommend, and apply amniotic wound allografts in return for illegal kickbacks. As alleged in the information, Gonzalez, a registered nurse, received approximately $7,391,584 in illegal kickbacks from an allograft distributor in exchange for recommending the purchasing and ordering of certain allografts billed to Medicare. A wound care company paid Gonzalez to apply allografts, some of which were medically unnecessary, to Medicare beneficiaries. Between October 2021 and April 2024, the wound care company billed Medicare over $94 million for allografts applied by Gonzalez and others. Medicare paid over $54 million based on those false and fraudulent claims. The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorneys Monica Cooper of the Texas Strike Force and Shane Butland of the National Rapid Response Strike Force, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica Oliva of the District of Nevada.
- Mary Huntly, 67, of Las Vegas, Nevada, was charged by information with conspiracy to defraud the United States and pay and receive health care kickbacks for participating in a scheme to receive illegal kickbacks in exchange for purchasing and ordering amniotic wound allografts billed to Medicare. As alleged in the information, Huntly, a nurse practitioner, applied medically unnecessary allografts to Medicare beneficiaries that were procured through illegal kickbacks and bribes. From September 2022 through April 2024, Huntly’s wound care company fraudulently billed Medicare approximately $14,333,550, and Medicare paid approximately $9,105,563 based on those claims. The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorneys Monica Cooper of the Texas Strike Force and Shane Butland of the National Rapid Response Strike Force, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica Oliva of the District of Nevada.
Demonstrating the significant return on investment that results from health care fraud enforcement efforts, the government seized over $245 million in cash, luxury vehicles, cryptocurrency, and other assets as part of the coordinated enforcement efforts. As part of the whole-of-government approach to combating health care fraud announced today, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) also announced that it successfully prevented over $4 billion from being paid in response to false and fraudulent claims and that it suspended or revoked the billing privileges of 205 providers in the months leading up to the Takedown. Civil charges against 20 defendants for $14.2 million in alleged fraud, as well as civil settlements with 106 defendants totaling $34.3 million, were also announced as part of the Takedown.

Today’s Takedown was led and coordinated by the Health Care Fraud Unit of the Department of Justice Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and its core partners from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). The cases were investigated by agents from HHS-OIG, FBI, DEA, and other federal and state law enforcement agencies. The cases are being prosecuted by Health Care Fraud Strike Force teams from the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, 50 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices nationwide, and 12 State Attorneys General Offices.

“As part of making healthcare accessible and affordable to all Americans, HHS will aggressively work with our law enforcement partners to eliminate the pervasive health care fraud that bedeviled this agency under the former administration and drove up costs,” said Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. of the Department of Health and Human Services.

“The Criminal Division is intensely committed to rooting out health care fraud schemes and prosecuting the criminals who perpetrate them because these schemes: (1) often result in physical patient harm through medically unnecessary treatments or failure to provide the correct treatments; (2) contribute to our nationwide opioid epidemic and exacerbate controlled substance addiction; and (3) do all of that while stealing money hardworking Americans contribute to pay for the care of their elders and other vulnerable citizens,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The Division’s Health Care Fraud Unit and U.S. Attorneys’ Offices stand united with our law enforcement partners in this fight, and we will continue to use every tool at our disposal to protect the integrity of our health care programs for the American people.”

“The scale of today’s Takedown is unprecedented, and so is the harm we’re confronting. Individuals who attempt to steal from the federal health care system and put vulnerable patients at risk will be held accountable,” said Acting Inspector General Juliet T. Hodgkins of HHS-OIG. “Our agents at HHS-OIG work relentlessly to detect, investigate, and dismantle these fraud schemes. We are proud to stand with our law enforcement partners in protecting taxpayer dollars and safeguarding patient care.”

“Health care fraud drains critical resources from programs intended to help people who truly need medical care,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Today’s announcement demonstrates our commitment to pursuing those who exploit the system for personal gain. With more than $13 billion in fraud uncovered, this is the largest takedown for this initiative to date. Together, the FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue to hold those accountable who steal from the American people and undermine our health care systems.”

“Today’s unprecedented enforcement action demonstrates that CMS and our federal partners are united in our mission to protect the integrity of Medicare and Medicaid by crushing waste, fraud, and abuse,” said CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz. “Every dollar we prevent from going to fraudsters is a dollar that stays in the system to serve legitimate beneficiaries. Through advanced data analytics, real-time monitoring, and swift administrative action, CMS is leading the fight to protect Medicare, Medicaid, and the trust Americans place in these vital programs. We’re not waiting for fraud to happen—we’re stopping it before it starts.”

The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Forces. Prior to the charges announced as part of today’s nationwide Takedown and since its inception in March 2007, the Health Care Fraud Strike Force, which operates in 27 districts, charged more than 5,400 defendants who collectively billed Medicare, Medicaid, and private health insurers more than $27 billion.

The following materials related to today’s announcement are available on the Health Care Fraud Unit’s website through these links:

• Graphics and Resources

• Case Descriptions

• Court Documents

An information is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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MIL Security OSI –
July 3, 2025
Shivraj Singh Chouhan to visit J&K for key meetings, convocation and rural engagements

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Union Minister for Agriculture, Farmers’ Welfare, and Rural Development, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, will visit Jammu and Kashmir on July 3 and 4. The visit is aimed at reinforcing the Centre’s initiatives in agriculture, natural farming, and rural development in the Union Territory. It will also focus on enhancing academic partnerships and engaging directly with farming communities and rural stakeholders

On July 3, Chouhan will hold a high-level review meeting at the Civil Secretariat in Srinagar. The focus will be on assessing the progress of central schemes and strategies for expanding sustainable farming practices in the region.

In the afternoon, the Minister will attend a meeting of the Consultative Committee of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare. Key topics on the agenda include the promotion of natural farming methods and the implementation of the National Oilseeds Mission, both critical to the government’s long-term goals for agricultural sustainability and self-reliance.

Later in the evening, a courtesy meeting will be hosted in Chouhan’s honour by the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, at the Raj Bhavan in Srinagar.

On July 4, the Union Minister will serve as the chief guest at the sixth convocation ceremony of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST-K). The event will take place at the university’s Shalimar Convention Centre. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who also serves as the Chancellor of SKUAST-K, and Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who is the Pro-Chancellor, will also attend.

During the ceremony, degrees will be awarded to 5,250 students, including undergraduates, postgraduates, and PhD scholars. The convocation will also honour 150 gold medalists and 445 students receiving merit certificates for outstanding academic performance.

Following the convocation, Chouhan will visit saffron and apple orchards at the SKUAST-K campus, where he will interact with horticulture scientists and local farmers to understand region-specific challenges and innovations. Later, in Khonmoh village, the Minister will meet with ‘Lakhpati Didis’—women who have become symbols of empowerment and rural economic success under various self-help and livelihood initiatives.

July 3, 2025
Shivraj Singh Chouhan to visit J&K for key meetings, convocation and rural engagements

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Union Minister for Agriculture, Farmers’ Welfare, and Rural Development, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, will visit Jammu and Kashmir on July 3 and 4. The visit is aimed at reinforcing the Centre’s initiatives in agriculture, natural farming, and rural development in the Union Territory. It will also focus on enhancing academic partnerships and engaging directly with farming communities and rural stakeholders

On July 3, Chouhan will hold a high-level review meeting at the Civil Secretariat in Srinagar. The focus will be on assessing the progress of central schemes and strategies for expanding sustainable farming practices in the region.

In the afternoon, the Minister will attend a meeting of the Consultative Committee of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare. Key topics on the agenda include the promotion of natural farming methods and the implementation of the National Oilseeds Mission, both critical to the government’s long-term goals for agricultural sustainability and self-reliance.

Later in the evening, a courtesy meeting will be hosted in Chouhan’s honour by the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, at the Raj Bhavan in Srinagar.

On July 4, the Union Minister will serve as the chief guest at the sixth convocation ceremony of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST-K). The event will take place at the university’s Shalimar Convention Centre. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who also serves as the Chancellor of SKUAST-K, and Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who is the Pro-Chancellor, will also attend.

During the ceremony, degrees will be awarded to 5,250 students, including undergraduates, postgraduates, and PhD scholars. The convocation will also honour 150 gold medalists and 445 students receiving merit certificates for outstanding academic performance.

Following the convocation, Chouhan will visit saffron and apple orchards at the SKUAST-K campus, where he will interact with horticulture scientists and local farmers to understand region-specific challenges and innovations. Later, in Khonmoh village, the Minister will meet with ‘Lakhpati Didis’—women who have become symbols of empowerment and rural economic success under various self-help and livelihood initiatives.

July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Ukraine must stay at the forefront of the international agenda: UK Statement to the OSCE
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Speech

Ukraine must stay at the forefront of the international agenda: UK Statement to the OSCE

UK Military Advisor, Lt Col Joby Rimmer, says amid global crises, including war in Iran, the UK urges continued focus on Ukraine.
Thank you, Madame Chair. The United Kingdom remains steadfast in our commitment to support Ukraine for as long as it takes. This unwavering support is rooted in the defence of sovereignty, international law, and the multilateral system. As Ukraine continues to resist Russian aggression with resilience and determination, recent developments underscore both the urgency of sustained assistance and the growing strain on Russia’s military and economic apparatus.

On the battlefield, Ukraine continues to hold the line, and in several areas, it is pushing it back. In Sumy Oblast, Russian attempts to establish a buffer zone were reversed by Ukrainian forces in late June. On 30 June, Ukraine’s General Staff confirmed the liberation of Andriyivka and advances near Oleksiivka, halting Russia’s northern offensive. Across Kharkiv, Kherson, and Zaporizhia, Russian offensives remain stalled or inconclusive. Ukrainian counterattacks have blunted their momentum. Russia’s increasing reliance on small, dispersed assault groups, observed between 22-30 June, reflects not tactical ingenuity but strategic desperation. On 27 June, Ukraine’s Security Service and Special Operations Forces struck the Marinovka airfield in Russia’s Volgograd region, destroying two Su-34 fullback fighter jets and damaging two more.

While Russia may emphasise incremental battlefield gains, these claims frequently lack independent verification. What is verifiable reality is that Russia’s economy is buckling under the weight of its own aggression. Oil and gas revenues are falling, inflation is surging, and the rouble continues to depreciate. President Putin himself has admitted the economy is ‘overheating.’ Sanctions are biting hard, damaging Russia’s industrial base, widening the gap between military demand and production capacity, and forcing the Kremlin to rely on a dwindling National Wealth Fund to plug a ballooning deficit. Arms exports have collapsed, and production of advanced systems like the Su-57 fighter jet has been suspended due to parts shortages. This has driven Russia to search for sources elsewhere – China remains the decisive enabler of Russia’s war, and Iran has provided drones and ballistic missiles. In addition, over half of the artillery shells used by Russia since 2024 have come from North Korea. A telling sign of Moscow’s increasing dependence on foreign support.

So how does Russia respond? President Putin has escalated his campaign of terror from the skies. On June 29, Russian forces launched the largest air assault since the start of the full-scale invasion, firing over 500 aerial weapons in a single night. While most were intercepted, the attacks caused civilian casualties and widespread infrastructure damage. President Zelenskyy rightly condemned these strikes as further proof that Russia is not seeking peace, but destruction.

Finally, the Russian delegation will no doubt highlight recent NATO defence announcements as provocative. To clarify, again, in response to Russia’s increasing aggression across the Euro-Atlantic area, its illegal actions in Ukraine and its irresponsible nuclear rhetoric, the United Kingdom is reinforcing its own defence and deterrence posture. Our procurement of F-35A aircraft and participation in NATO’s dual-capable aircraft nuclear mission represent the most significant enhancement of our nuclear readiness in a generation. This is a strategic move to ensure NATO’s credibility and preparedness to respond to an increasingly volatile security environment.

Madame Chair, while the world faces multiple crises, from instability in the Middle East to tensions in the Indo-Pacific, we must not lose sight of the ongoing war in Ukraine. Russia’s invasion is not just a conflict against Ukraine; it is a direct assault on the principles that underpin global peace and security. Let us be clear: Russia’s aggression will not succeed. Its economy is faltering, its military is overstretched, and its international isolation is deepening. Ukraine, by contrast, stands strong, resilient, united, and supported by a global coalition of democracies. The United Kingdom reaffirms its enduring commitment to Ukraine. We will stand with the Ukrainian people for as long as it takes.

Updates to this page

Published 2 July 2025

Invasion of Ukraine

UK visa support for Ukrainian nationals

Move to the UK if you’re coming from Ukraine

Homes for Ukraine: record your interest

Find out about the UK’s response
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Exploresask Photo Contest Launch
Source: Government of Canada regional news

Released on July 2, 2025

Tourism Saskatchewan’s annual ExploreSask Photo Contest is officially underway and accepting entries as of July 2. Enter photographs or videos of your favourite Saskatchewan adventures for a chance to win great prizes. Amateur and professional photographers and videographers are encouraged to submit their most striking content that captures the natural beauty of Saskatchewan and tells stories about its people and communities. The contest runs until September 30, 2025.

The six contest categories are:
- People and Places – Portraits of Saskatchewan people from all walks of life enjoying indoor or outdoor activities, and places that portray the community spirit and liveliness of Saskatchewan cities and towns, cityscapes, local attractions and urban life.
- Prairie – Scenic photos from prairie regions; hidden treasures such as valleys, hills and badlands; other natural features displaying the province’s diverse geography in any season.
- Wildlife – Images that showcase Saskatchewan’s beautiful wild animals, birds and insects.
- Winter – Scenes of winter in Saskatchewan, from outdoor activities to wild snowy landscapes.
- Woods and Water – Photography that features Saskatchewan’s abundant lakes and rivers, as well as Saskatchewan’s diverse forests and trees, from lodgepole pine and aspen groves in the south to the northern boreal forests.
- Video – Submit an edited piece or single shot video (60 seconds maximum) of Saskatchewan wildlife, people, places and landscapes.
The prize-winning photographer in each category will receive a $500 Visa gift card. The Grand Prize winner, selected from the five photography category winners, will receive an additional $500 Visa gift card. The prize for the Video category is a $1,000 Visa gift card. The winner in the Video category will not be considered in the selection of the Grand Prize.

For complete contest rules and to submit your entry, visit TourismSaskatchewan.com/Photo-Contest or call Tourism Saskatchewan toll-free at 1-877-237-2273. The deadline for entries is September 30, 2025.

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For more information, contact:

MIL OSI Canada News –
July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Member of Transnational Terrorist Group Charged with Soliciting the Murder of Federal Officials in Connection with Hit List

Source: United States Attorneys General

The Justice Department announced today that Noah Lamb, 24, was charged in the Eastern District of California in an eight-count indictment for conspiracy, soliciting the murder of federal officials, and other offenses in connection with his work on a hit list of “high value targets” for assassination.

“Transnational criminal networks that promote extremist ideology and seek to commit targeted assassinations and cause terror obviously have no place in our society,” said Assistant Attorney General John A. Eisenberg of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “These criminal charges reflect the Justice Department’s unwavering commitment to using the full force of the law to disrupt and prosecute those who use hate-driven violence to threaten public safety and national security.”

“The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division is committed to aggressively pursuing those who engage in hate-fueled conspiracies and terrorist threats,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “We will use every tool available to protect the civil rights of all Americans and ensure justice for those targeted by such heinous acts.”

“The defendant collaborated with members of the online Terrorgram Collective to create a list of targets for assassination,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith for the Eastern District of California. “Individuals on the list were targeted because of race, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, or gender identity, including federal officials. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will work tirelessly with our partners in law enforcement and in the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate and prosecute those who commit such violations of federal criminal law.”

“The FBI stands vigilant, protecting our homeland against individuals who seek to use violence to target the American people, our democracy, and the freedoms we stand for,” said Special Agent in Charge Sid Patel of the FBI Sacramento Field Office. “These charges send a clear message of zero tolerance to anyone who advocates the use of violence to promote their ideology.”

According to the indictment, which was unsealed today, Lamb was a member of the Terrorgram Collective, a transnational terrorist group that operates on the digital messaging platform Telegram, where it promotes racially or ethnically motivated violent extremism. Members of the Terrorgram Collective believe the white race is superior; that society is irreparably corrupt and cannot be saved by political action; and that violence and terrorism are necessary to ignite a race war and accelerate the collapse of the government and the rise of a white ethnostate.

The indictment alleges that Lamb conspired with other members of the Terrorgram Collective to create and disseminate a hit list of “high-value targets” for assassination that includes U.S. federal, state, and local officials, as well as leaders of private companies and non-governmental organizations, targeted because of race, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

The indictment charges Lamb with a total of eight federal crimes, including one count of conspiracy, three counts of soliciting the murder of federal officials, three counts of doxing federal officials, and one count of threatening communications. If convicted, Lamb faces a maximum penalty of 85 years in prison.

The FBI Sacramento Field Office investigated the case.

The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, National Security Division, and U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California are prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

MIL Security OSI –

July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Member of Transnational Terrorist Group Charged with Soliciting the Murder of Federal Officials in Connection with Hit List

Source: United States Attorneys General

The Justice Department announced today that Noah Lamb, 24, was charged in the Eastern District of California in an eight-count indictment for conspiracy, soliciting the murder of federal officials, and other offenses in connection with his work on a hit list of “high value targets” for assassination.

“Transnational criminal networks that promote extremist ideology and seek to commit targeted assassinations and cause terror obviously have no place in our society,” said Assistant Attorney General John A. Eisenberg of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “These criminal charges reflect the Justice Department’s unwavering commitment to using the full force of the law to disrupt and prosecute those who use hate-driven violence to threaten public safety and national security.”

“The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division is committed to aggressively pursuing those who engage in hate-fueled conspiracies and terrorist threats,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “We will use every tool available to protect the civil rights of all Americans and ensure justice for those targeted by such heinous acts.”

“The defendant collaborated with members of the online Terrorgram Collective to create a list of targets for assassination,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith for the Eastern District of California. “Individuals on the list were targeted because of race, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, or gender identity, including federal officials. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will work tirelessly with our partners in law enforcement and in the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate and prosecute those who commit such violations of federal criminal law.”

“The FBI stands vigilant, protecting our homeland against individuals who seek to use violence to target the American people, our democracy, and the freedoms we stand for,” said Special Agent in Charge Sid Patel of the FBI Sacramento Field Office. “These charges send a clear message of zero tolerance to anyone who advocates the use of violence to promote their ideology.”

According to the indictment, which was unsealed today, Lamb was a member of the Terrorgram Collective, a transnational terrorist group that operates on the digital messaging platform Telegram, where it promotes racially or ethnically motivated violent extremism. Members of the Terrorgram Collective believe the white race is superior; that society is irreparably corrupt and cannot be saved by political action; and that violence and terrorism are necessary to ignite a race war and accelerate the collapse of the government and the rise of a white ethnostate.

The indictment alleges that Lamb conspired with other members of the Terrorgram Collective to create and disseminate a hit list of “high-value targets” for assassination that includes U.S. federal, state, and local officials, as well as leaders of private companies and non-governmental organizations, targeted because of race, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

The indictment charges Lamb with a total of eight federal crimes, including one count of conspiracy, three counts of soliciting the murder of federal officials, three counts of doxing federal officials, and one count of threatening communications. If convicted, Lamb faces a maximum penalty of 85 years in prison.

The FBI Sacramento Field Office investigated the case.

The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, National Security Division, and U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California are prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

MIL Security OSI –

July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: More flexibility for development charges will unlock more homes for people

Source: Government of Canada regional news

George V. Harvie, mayor of Delta –

“On behalf of the City of Delta, I want to thank the Government of B.C. for introducing this timely and much-needed change. Delta council and I have been advocating to allow local governments more flexibility to support housing development, while continuing to deliver the infrastructure our growing communities depend on. This smart, balanced policy shift will support both growth and sustainability.”

Brenda Locke, mayor of Surrey –

“Reducing upfront costs for homebuilders is a progressive approach to encourage more housing creation. When developers have fewer financial barriers, they can get projects off the ground faster and accelerate construction timelines, which means homes become more affordable for families. Everyone deserves a safe, welcoming place to call home and this step will help build stronger, more vibrant communities where people can truly thrive.”

Mike Hurley, mayor of Burnaby –

“It’s encouraging to see the Province providing more tools and flexibility to accelerate the creation of new housing. These changes demonstrate the collaborative approach we’re taking to address the housing crisis, and we look forward to more solutions in the near future.”

Tom Dyas, mayor of Kelowna –

“Incentivizing development supports our economy and helps build homes faster in Kelowna. Modernizing outdated regulations is a positive step. Locally, we have taken bold action to create and incentivize new housing, and we look forward to working with the Province and industry to advance key projects.”

Nathan Pachal, mayor, City of Langley –

“In a housing crisis, we must look at every and any innovative way to ensure cities can deliver on much-needed infrastructure, while providing more flexible financial options for home builders. Langley City is piloting on-demand surety bonds today and it is exciting to see this being rolled out provincewide.”

Anne McMullin, president and CEO, Urban Development Institute –

“The requirement to pay development fees up front has become increasingly onerous for builders, especially as fees rise and access to capital tightens. By shifting payment to occupancy, the provincial government is enabling more projects to move forward. This policy lowers early-stage financing costs, frees up capital for construction and helps builders reinvest in new housing.”

Neil Moody, CEO, Canadian Home Builders’ Association of BC –

“Our association has long advocated for flexibility in managing upfront development costs, which present significant financial barriers to homebuilders. The ability to defer a portion of development charges and use on-demand surety bonds is a practical measure to address the current economic realities of building housing across British Columbia. This announcement reflects significant collaboration that will help unlock capital, ease cost pressures and support the delivery of more homes.”

MIL OSI Canada News –

July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Torres Fights to Protect Californians from Harmful Republican Cuts in the Big Ugly Bill By Introducing Key Amendments
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Norma Torres (35th District of California)
July 02, 2025

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Norma Torres introduced critical amendments to the House Republican-led reconciliation package to protect Americans from the bill’s most harmful provisions and ensure policies that would serve working families.

Trump and Republicans have loaded this package with measures that gut healthcare, nutrition assistance, and state tax relief programs—stripping essential support from millions of working families, seniors, and children across the country. In response, Congresswoman Torres introduced several amendments that would protect California’s most vulnerable.

“The American people are not bargaining chips for partisan politics,” said Congresswoman Torres. “This Republican mega-bill is nothing short of a targeted attack on working families, healthcare access, and basic nutrition programs. I fought to include amendments that defend Californians, especially those in the Inland Empire, from these reckless cuts.”

The Amendments Congresswoman Torres is introducing include:
- Amendment #1 – Removes the harmful provisions that (1) cut the Medicaid program, known as Medi-Cal in California, and (2) change the Affordable Care Act, protecting health care and lowering health insurance costs for tens of millions of Americans.
- Amendment #2 – Removes the harmful provisions that cut SNAP benefits, known as CalFresh in California, that tens of millions of Americans rely on to put food on the table.
- Amendment #3 – Eliminates the $10,000 cap on State and Local Tax (SALT) Deductions that unfairly penalizes Californians, removing the cap on August 1, 2025.
- Amendment #4 – Protects states from politically motivated federal funding cuts.
- Amendment #5 – This amendment prohibits FEMA from canceling grants that have already been awarded, except in cases of fraud or noncompliance, and requires reporting to Congress if a cancellation occurs.
- Amendment #6 – This amendment prohibits ICE agents from using chemical irritants against Members of Congress and imposes criminal penalties for violations.
- Amendment #7 – This amendment requires ICE agents to visibly display badges and present official identification during enforcement actions to prevent impersonation and ensure public accountability.
- Amendment #8 – Prohibits the use of federal funds to deport non-citizen U.S. military veterans unless they have had access to legal counsel and a fair hearing before an immigration judge. It also requires the Department of Homeland Security to report to Congress within 180 days on the number of such veterans in removal proceedings, their case outcomes, and whether they had legal representation.
“These amendments aren’t just policy—they’re personal,” Torres continued. “They reflect the lives and needs of the people I represent. I’ll continue fighting to make sure Congress protects—not punishes—the American people.”

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MIL OSI USA News –
July 3, 2025

MIL-OSI Africa: International Monetary Fund (IMF) Staff Completes 2025 Article IV Mission with Nigeria

The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) concluded the Article IV Consultation with Nigeria.(1)

The Nigerian authorities have implemented major reforms over the past two years which have improved macroeconomic stability and enhanced resilience. The authorities have removed costly fuel subsidies, stopped monetary financing of the fiscal deficit and improved the functioning of the foreign exchange market. Investor confidence has strengthened, helping Nigeria successfully tap the Eurobond market and leading to a resumption of portfolio inflows. At the same time, poverty and food insecurity have risen, and the government is now focused on raising growth.

Growth accelerated to 3.4 percent in 2024, driven mainly by increased hydrocarbon output and vibrant services sector. Agriculture remained subdued, owing to security challenges and sliding productivity. Real GDP is expected to expand by 3.4 percent in 2025, supported by the new domestic refinery, higher oil production and robust services. Against a complex and uncertain external environment, medium-term growth is projected to hover around 3½ percent, supported by domestic reform gains.

Gross and net international reserves increased in 2024, with a strong current account surplus and improved portfolio inflows. Reforms to the fx market and foreign exchange interventions have brought stability to the naira.

Naira stabilization and improvements in food production brought inflation to 23.7 percent year-on-year in April 2025 from 31 percent annual average in 2024 in the backcasted rebased CPI index released by the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics. Inflation should decline further in the medium-term with continued tight macroeconomic policies and a projected easing of retail fuel prices.

Fiscal performance improved in 2024. Revenues benefited from naira depreciation, enhanced revenue administration and higher grants, which more-than-offset rising interest and overheads spending.

Downside risks have increased with heightened global uncertainty. A further decline in oil prices or increase in financing costs would adversely affect growth, fiscal and external positions, undermine financial stability and exacerbate exchange rate pressures. A deterioration of security could impact growth and food insecurity.

Executive Board Assessment (2)

Executive Directors agreed with the thrust of the staff appraisal. They commended the authorities on the successful implementation of significant reforms during the past two years and welcomed the associated gains in macroeconomic stability and resilience. As these gains have yet to benefit all Nigerians, and with heightened economic uncertainty and significant downside risks, Directors emphasized the importance of agile policy making to safeguard and enhance macroeconomic stability, creating enabling conditions to boost growth, and reducing poverty.

Directors agreed that the Central Bank of Nigeria is appropriately maintaining a tight monetary policy stance, which should continue until disinflation becomes entrenched. They welcomed the discontinuation of deficit monetization and ongoing efforts to strengthen central bank governance to set the institutional foundation for inflation targeting. Directors also welcomed steps taken by the authorities to build reserves and support market confidence and praised reforms to the foreign exchange market that supported price discovery and liquidity. They called for implementation of a robust foreign exchange intervention framework focused on containing excess volatility, stressing that the exchange rate is an important shock absorber. Directors also agreed with staff’s call to phase out existing capital flow management measures in a properly timed and sequenced manner.

Directors called for a neutral fiscal stance to safeguard macroeconomic stabilization with priority given to investments that enhance growth. Directors also called for accelerating the delivery of cash transfers to assist the poor. They commended the authorities on advancing the tax reform bill, an important step towards enhancing revenue mobilization and creating fiscal space for development spending, while preserving debt sustainability.

Directors recognized actions to strengthen the banking system, including the ongoing process of increasing banks’ minimum capital. They welcomed the authorities’ efforts to boost financial inclusion and promote capital market development, while emphasizing the importance of moving to a robust risk‑based supervision for mortgage and consumer lending schemes as well as the fintech and crypto sectors. Directors welcomed progress made in strengthening the AML/CFT framework and stressed the importance of resolving remaining weaknesses to exit the FATF grey list.

To lift Nigeria’s growth outlook, improve food security, and reduce fragility, Directors highlighted the importance of tackling security, red tape, agricultural productivity, infrastructure gaps, including boosting electricity supply, as well as improved health and education spending, and making the economy more resilient to climate events. They noted that addressing structural impediments to private credit extension is also needed to support growth. Directors welcomed the IMF’s capacity development to support authorities’ reform efforts and agreed that enhancing data quality is critical for sound, data‑driven policymaking.

Table 1. Nigeria: Selected Economic and Financial Indicators, 2023–26

	2023	2024	2025		2026
5/8/2025 13:03	Act.	Est.	Proj.		Proj.

National income and prices	Annual percentage change (unless otherwise specified)
Real GDP (at 2010 market prices)	2.9	3.4		3.4	3.2
Oil GDP	-2.2	5.5		4.9	2.3
Non-oil GDP	3.2	3.3		3.3	3.3
Non-oil non-agriculture GDP	3.9	4.1		3.7	3.7
Production of crude oil (million barrels per day)	1.5	1.5		1.7	1.7
Nominal GDP at market prices (trillions of naira)	234	277		320	367
Nominal non-oil GDP (trillions of naira)	221	260		303	351
Nominal GDP per capita (US$)	1,597	806		836	887
GDP deflator	12.6	14.5		11.4	11.4
Consumer price index (annual average)	24.7	31.4		24.0	23.0
Consumer price index (end of period)	28.9	15.4		23.0	18.0
Investment and savings	Percent of GDP
Gross national savings	31.8	39.6	37.5		37.7
Public	-0.1	3.9	2.2		1.7
Private	31.9	35.7	35.3		36.1
Investment	30.0	30.4	30.5		33.1
Public	3.2	4.8	5.4		5.5
Private	26.8	25.6	25.1		27.6
Consolidated government operations	Percent of GDP
Total revenues and grants	9.8	14.4	14.2		13.8
Of which: oil and gas revenue	3.3	4.1	5.1		4.9
Of which: non-oil revenue	5.8	9.2	8.8		8.8
Total expenditure and net lending	13.9	17.1	18.9		18.7
Overall balance	-4.2	-2.6	-4.7		-4.9
Non-oil primary balance	-4.9	-4.9	-7.2		-6.9
Public gross debt1	48.7	52.9	52.0		50.8
Of which: FX denominated debt	18.1	25.5	25.8		24.8
FGN interest payments (percent of FGN revenue)	83.8	41.1	47.3		49.2
Money and credit	Contribution to broad money growth (unless otherwise specified)
Broad money (percent change; end of period)	51.9	42.7	17.9		22.3
Net foreign assets	10.5	30.4	2.1		7.2
Net domestic assets	41.3	12.3	15.8		15.1
Of which: Claims on consolidated government	20.1	-11.9	6.2		4.1
Credit to the private sector (y/y, percent)	53.6	30.1	17.9		18.2
Velocity of broad money (ratio; end of period)	2.7	3.3	2.2		2.1

External sector	Annual percentage change (unless otherwise specified)
Current account balance (percent of GDP)	1.8	9.2	7.0		4.6
Exports of goods and services	-12.8	-4.5	-6.0		1.3
Imports of goods and services	-4.4	-0.8	-6.8		8.4
Terms of trade	-6.1	-0.6	-7.4		-3.3
Price of Nigerian oil (US$ per barrel)	82.3	79.9	67.7		63.3
External debt outstanding (US$ billions)2	102.9	102.2	105.9		110.2
Gross international reserves (US$ billions, CBN definition)3	33.2	40.2	36.4		39.1
Equivalent months of prospective imports of G&S	5.4	5.7	7.5		7.7

Memorandum items:
Implicit fuel subsidy (percent of GDP)	0.8	2.1	0.0		0.0

Sources: Nigerian authorities; and IMF staff estimates and projections.

1 Gross debt figures for the Federal Government and the public sector include overdrafts from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

2 Includes both public and private sector.

3 Based on the IMF definition, the gross international reserves were US$8 billion lower in December 2024.

(1) Under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, the IMF holds bilateral discussions with members, usually every year. Staff hold separate annual discussions with the regional institutions responsible for common policies in four currency unions—the Euro Area, the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union, the Central African Economic and Monetary Union, and the West African Economic and Monetary Union. For each of the currency unions, staff teams visit the regional institutions responsible for common policies in the currency union, collects economic and financial information, and discusses with officials the currency union’s economic developments and policies. On return to headquarters, the staff prepares a report, which forms the basis of discussion by the Executive Board. Both staff’s discussions with the regional institutions and the Board discussion of the annual staff report will be considered an integral part of the Article IV consultation with each member.

(2) At the conclusion of the discussion, the Managing Director, as Chairman of the Board, summarizes the views of Executive Directors, and this summary is transmitted to the country’s authorities. An explanation of any qualifiers used in summings up can be found here: http://www.IMF.org/external/np/sec/misc/qualifiers.htm. The Executive Board takes decisions under its lapse-of-time procedure when the Board agrees that a proposal can be considered without convening formal discussions.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of International Monetary Fund (IMF).

MIL OSI Africa –

July 3, 2025

MIL-OSI Africa: The African Development Bank and the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) scale up drive for sustainable urbanization in Africa

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The African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org) and the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance collaboration and accelerate action on sustainable urban transformation across the continent.

Under the agreement, the organizations will jointly develop action plans that combine technical assistance, policy support, capacity-building, and knowledge exchange to local governments in four key spheres: urban governance, housing, municipal finance, and infrastructure development.

The agreement was formalized on 1 July 2025 on the sidelines of the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FfD4) in Seville, Spain.

The Memorandum of Understanding renews an agreement signed in 2006 by the two entities to collaborate in the water and sanitation sector.

The African Development Bank and UN-Habitat also plan to coordinate their efforts to tap into key regional and global platforms to mobilize resources for urban development in Africa, including the World Urban Forum and the Africa Investment Forum.

“I believe that there are ways that we can use the capital markets to develop cities much better,” said African Development Bank President Akinwumi Adesina. “I am delighted that the Bank and UN-Habitat are partnering on the development of cities – I am very excited about this partnership.”

“Cities are the engine of growth, and we need to mobilize a lot more private capital in the development of cities, which will require a different approach from the conventional public sector capital,” he added.

The Executive Director of UN-Habitat, Anacláudia Rossbach, said: “Urbanization in Africa can either be a driver of prosperity or a deepening of poverty and exclusion. Through this renewed collaboration with the African Development Bank, we aim to help cities become engines of resilience, equity, and climate action, leaving no one behind.”

The African Development Bank Group has significantly expanded its urban portfolio in recent years, including through the creation of a dedicated urban development division and the Urban and Municipal Development Fund to support African cities in delivering transformative, climate-resilient urban solutions. Most recently, UN-Habitat and the Bank Group signed a service agreement to prepare the Eswatini EcoCity Masterplan under an integrated urban and agricultural initiative that aims to deliver sustainable housing and create economic opportunities for over 100,000 people in Eswatini.

Africa’s rapid growth and urbanization – the continent’s population is projected to reach 2.4 billion by 2050 –presents both opportunities and challenges. With more than half of urban residents living in informal settlements lacking basic services, adequate housing, and climate-resilient infrastructure, local governments are under increasing strain. Through this renewed partnership, the African Development Bank and UN-Habitat are joining forces to help cities respond to these challenges and harness urban growth as a driver of sustainable development.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Contacts:
UN-Habitat
Katerina Bezgachina
Chief of Communications
ekaterina.bezgachina@un.org

Gonzalo Ruiz
Partnerships Officer
Ruiz.gonzalo@un.org
+254 714228562

unhabitat-info@un.org

African Development Bank
Olufemi Terry
Communications and External Relations
media@afdb.org

About UN-Habitat:
UN-Habitat is the United Nations entity working for sustainable urbanization. With pro-grammes in over 90 countries, it supports policymakers and communities to create socially and environmentally sustainable cities and towns. UN-Habitat promotes transformative change in urban areas through knowledge, policy advice, technical assistance, and collaborative action. To know more, visit https://UNHabitat.org/ or follow us on social media @ UNHABITAT.

MIL OSI Africa –

July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Boozman Congratulates Summer Interns on Service to Arkansas

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman

U.S. Senator John Boozman pictured with his Washington, D.C. interns on the steps of the U.S. Capitol.
WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) recognized the college students who served as interns?in his Washington, D.C. and state offices during the first summer session.
“These bright, energetic young people did a great job supporting Arkansans through their work in my Capitol Hill and Natural State offices this summer. Their contributions benefited my staff as we provided important constituent services and represented our state’s voices in the Senate. I am proud of them and have confidence that this experience has strengthened their understanding of the legislative process as well as encouraged a continued interest in public service,” Boozman said.?
Harrison McCarty, Alyxander Logan, Ryann Richards, Alex Siwiec, Travis Thrailkill and Reese Turner completed a five-week internship in Boozman’s Washington office. Constituent relations were their primary duty. Additionally, they assisted the legislative and communications teams with various projects and each was also able to shadow the senator for a day –– a unique opportunity?giving them?rare insight into the inner workings of the U.S. Senate.

U.S. Senator John Boozman pictured with his Arkansas interns at an event in Atkins in May.
Rhealyn Schmidt, Kyra Chanthakhot and Braden Carr supported Arkansans through internships in the senator’s state offices in Jonesboro, Fort Smith and Little Rock, respectively. They primarily helped with outreach to local communities and learned more about the senator’s casework services for constituents in need of assistance with issues involving federal agencies.
Harrison McCarty is from Little Rock and graduated from Pulaski Academy in 2022. He is a rising senior at Georgetown University. Harrison attends Georgetown’s School of Foreign Service, where he studies culture and politics while pursuing minors in economics and Spanish. He interns with the Georgetown University Alumni and Student Federal Credit Union in addition to being a member of the Blue and Gray Tour Guide Society and creating content for Georgetown’s social media pages.
Alyxander Logan is from Fort Smith and a 2022 graduate of Southside High School. He is an incoming senior at Oklahoma Christian University in Edmond, Oklahoma. He is double majoring in communication/leadership pre-law and English with a minor in Bible. He is the president of his Social Club, Delta Gamma Sigma, and is senior class president. Upon graduation, Alyx plans to attend law school.
Ryann Richards is from Bentonville and graduated from Bentonville High School in 2022. She is a rising senior at the University of Arkansas. She is majoring in advertising and public relations, with minors in marketing and communication. Ryann is the Vice President of the University of Arkansas Panhellenic Council, overseeing operations for the 2025 Panhellenic Community. She is also a member of Lambda Pi Eta Honor Society and Public Relations Student Society.
Alex Siwiec is from Rogers and a 2022 graduate of Rogers Heritage High School. She is a rising senior at Pepperdine University majoring in marketing. Alex is an active member of the Waves Marketing Club, which provides full-service strategies to local businesses and clients, and holds the role of Director of Dialogues in Delta Gamma. She has enriched her education through courses at Parsons School of Design as well as studying abroad in Florence, Italy.
Travis Thrailkill is from Mena and graduated from Mena High School in 2022. He is an incoming senior at the University of Arkansas and is double majoring in political science and history. He is an active member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity and participates in community outreach and philanthropy. Following his graduation, Travis plans to attend law school with a concentration in the corporate field.
Reese Turner is from Cabot and graduated from Cabot High School in 2022. She is a rising senior at the University of Arkansas. She is majoring in political science and history with a minor in legal studies. Reese is involved with the University’s Associated Student Government Senate and the Student Ambassador program. She is an active member of Chi Omega Psi, where she has served on both the sisterhood and recruitment committees. After graduating, Reese plans to attend law school.
Rhealyn Schmidt is from Walnut Ridge. She is a graduate of Walnut Ridge High School and currently attends the University of Arkansas where she studies political studies and agribusiness pre-law, with minors in English and legal studies. She is involved in the Agribusiness Club, Associated Student Government and Student Ambassadors on campus. She also serves as Director of Philanthropy of her sorority, Delta Delta Delta. After graduating, Rhealyn plans to attend law school.
Kyra Chanthakhot is from Fort Smith. She graduated from Northside High School and currently attends the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith, where she is studying biology with a minor in political science. Upon graduation, Kyra plans to attend law school.
Braden Carr is from Paragould where he graduated from Greene County Tech High School. He is a rising junior at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. A member of the Donaghey Scholars Honors Program, Braden is double majoring in political science and criminal justice. He is a member of the UALR Student Government Association and chair of the Arkansas Federation of College Republicans. Upon graduation, Braden plans to pursue a career in public service.
Learn more about internship opportunities in Boozman’s Washington and state offices here.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 3, 2025
Cheers, chants and drums: PM Modi receives rousing welcome from Indian community in Ghana

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday received an enthusiastic welcome from members of the Indian community in Accra, marking the start of his landmark visit to Ghana — the first by an Indian Prime Minister in over three decades.

Shortly after landing in the West African nation, PM Modi was greeted by hundreds of Indians and locals at a hotel in Accra. The crowd chanted “Modi-Modi”, “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and “Vande Mataram” as the Prime Minister interacted with the diaspora and held a child in his arms, drawing loud applause.

Local artists played an instrumental version of ‘Jai Ho’ using traditional drums and instruments, while another group joined Indian families in chanting “Hare Krishna, Hare Rama”, which PM Modi acknowledged with applause.

Ghana is home to a thriving Indian community of over 15,000, including fourth-generation families who have lived in the country for more than 70 years. Many have acquired Ghanaian citizenship, while others work with multinational companies and local businesses. The community is served by Hindu temples, a Gurudwara, an ISKCON temple largely run by Ghanaians, and an Art of Living centre.

Earlier, Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama received PM Modi at Kotoka International Airport in a special gesture underlining the significance of the visit. The Prime Minister was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the airport before the two leaders held brief discussions at the Jubilee Lounge.

“Ghana is a valued partner in the Global South and plays an important role in the African Union and ECOWAS. I look forward to exchanges that will deepen our historical ties and open new avenues of cooperation in investment, energy, health, security, capacity building and development partnership. As fellow democracies, it will be an honour to address Ghana’s Parliament,” PM Modi said before departing New Delhi.

Ghana is the first stop on PM Modi’s five-nation tour, which will also cover Trinidad and Tobago, Argentina, Brazil and Namibia. Delegation-level talks are scheduled in Accra later on Wednesday, during which the two sides will review bilateral ties and explore ways to expand cooperation. The Prime Minister will also hold one-on-one talks with President Mahama, followed by a banquet in his honour.

On Thursday, PM Modi will address Ghana’s Parliament and interact again with the Indian community.

Briefing reporters ahead of the visit, Dammu Ravi, Secretary (ER) at the Ministry of External Affairs, said the timing of the visit — early in President Mahama’s term after his landslide election win in January — would help both sides build continuity and deepen ties.

India and Ghana share longstanding ties dating back to Ghana’s independence in 1957. “We supported Ghana’s cause at the UN much before its independence, and the relationship has evolved into a multi-faceted partnership,” Ravi said.

Economic cooperation is expected to dominate the talks, with Ghana seeking to attract investments and strengthen ties as it undergoes economic restructuring. Bilateral trade stands at around $3 billion, largely due to India’s gold imports. Indian investments in Ghana are estimated at $2 billion, split between the private sector and government lines of credit.

The two sides are also expected to discuss defence cooperation, critical minerals, digital public infrastructure and plans to develop a vaccine hub for West Africa.

The visit, the MEA said, reaffirms India’s commitment to deepen ties with Ghana and strengthen its engagement with ECOWAS and the African Union.

IANS

July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Scanlon Announce Bicameral Legislation to Crack Down on Fraudulent Firearm Sales

US Senate News:

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

Padilla, Scanlon Announce Bicameral Legislation to Crack Down on Fraudulent Firearm Sales

WASHINGTON, D.C. — As the gun violence epidemic continues to devastate American communities, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and Mary Gay Scanlon (D-Pa.-05) announced a bicameral bill to make the fraudulent sale, advertising, or transfer of firearms a federal crime. The Stopping the Fraudulent Sale of Firearms Act would close this dangerous loophole and address a critical gap in gun safety enforcement, including online listings that deceptively evade tech companies’ terms of service.

Federal law requires background checks for gun sales by licensed dealers, and 22 states extend that requirement to unlicensed sellers. Still, individuals who would fail a routine background check — such as those with felony convictions, domestic violence restraining orders, or a history of severe mental illness — frequently obtain firearms through online marketplaces that lack meaningful oversight. According to Everytown, nearly 1 in 9 prospective buyers who respond to online ads from unlicensed sellers would fail a background check.

Cracking down on fraudulent sellers would reduce the illegal flow of firearms to individuals prohibited from possessing them and strengthen efforts to protect communities from preventable violence.

“Background checks save lives by keeping guns out of the wrong hands, but fast-growing online marketplaces are making it easier to dodge these critical protections,” said Senator Padilla. “Fraudulent sales on these online marketplaces create a backdoor for dangerous individuals — even in states with strong gun laws. By prohibiting fraudulent transactions and holding deceptive sellers accountable, our bill would reinforce background check requirements and help prevent firearms from falling into the wrong hands.”

“Background checks work, and everyone who tries to buy a gun should have to pass one,” said Representative Scanlon. “It’s time to crack down on deceptive online sales practices that give dangerous people unchecked access to guns and make our communities less safe. I’m proud to lead this common sense legislation that would make these misleading practices illegal – one solution of many that we know will reduce gun violence and save lives.”

As the online firearm marketplace has emerged as a growing venue for anonymous gun purchases, criminals and other prohibited purchasers have gained easier access to firearms. In response, Meta, YouTube, and other technology companies have banned firearm sales on their platforms. However, sellers frequently circumvent these restrictions by fraudulently disguising listings. For example, on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, guns may be advertised as “stickers” featuring firearm brand logos, while the actual weapons are sold off the record. These tactics allow sellers to sidestep platform rules and legal requirements, enabling dangerous individuals to acquire firearms undetected. As long as online platforms remain vulnerable to abuse through disguised listings and fraudulent sales tactics, individuals intent on doing harm will continue to exploit them, putting public safety and community well-being at risk.

To address this growing loophole, the Stopping the Fraudulent Sale of Firearms Act would amend the federal criminal code to prohibit the fraudulent importation, manufacture, and sale of firearms or ammunition, as well as the transmission of any communication related to such fraudulent activity. Violators could face a fine, up to five years in prison, or both.

The Stopping the Fraudulent Sale of Firearms Act is endorsed by Brady United, Everytown, GIFFORDS, and Newtown Action Alliance.

“All too often, unlicensed gun dealers circumvent firearm sale restrictions set by technology companies and create fake listings to covertly sell firearms and ammunition. This practice violates companies’ terms of service and enables widespread gun trafficking. By addressing the dangerous practice of false advertisements that facilitate firearm sales online, the Stopping the Fraudulent Sale of Firearms Act will address the realities of the 21st century and prevent deceitful gun sales. Brady is grateful to Senator Padilla for championing this critical legislation,” said Mark Collins, Director of Federal Policy, Brady.

“Online gun traffickers are exploiting deadly loopholes to put firearms into the hands of dangerous individuals—without background checks, oversight, or accountability. The Stopping the Fraudulent Sale of Firearms Act will help close one of the internet’s most lethal black markets by cracking down on deceptive online sales. If tech platforms won’t stop these fraudulent listings, Congress must. We applaud Senator Padilla for taking bold action to protect our communities from preventable gun violence,” said Po Murray, Chairwoman, Newtown Action Alliance.

“Gun trafficking and bypassed background checks pose a threat to public safety and to law enforcement. Deceptively selling firearms and ammunition online will result in dangerous weapons falling into the hands of dangerous individuals who should not have them. I want to thank Senator Padilla for highlighting this important issue, and for putting forth this crucial bill to address it,” said Emma Brown, Executive Director of GIFFORDS.

Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), and Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) are cosponsoring the bill.

Senator Padilla is a strong advocate for commonsense, lifesaving gun safety reforms. Last week, Padilla introduced bicameral legislation to prevent the federal government from contracting with federally licensed firearms dealers that have a documented history of selling a disproportionate number of guns that end up being used to commit violent crimes. Earlier this year, Padilla co-led the bicameral reintroduction of the Assault Weapons Ban of 2025, legislation to reinstate a nationwide ban on military-style assault weapons. He also led 18 Senators in introducing the Age 21 Act, legislation to raise the minimum age to purchase assault weapons and high-capacity ammunition magazines from 18 to 21, the same age requirement that already applies to purchasing handguns from federally licensed dealers. In June 2022, Padilla voted to pass the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, the most significant gun safety legislation in almost 30 years. In 2023, Padilla joined 27 of his Senate colleagues in reintroducing the Keep Americans Safe Act, renewing efforts to ban the importation, sale, manufacturing, transfer, or possession of gun magazines that hold more than 10 rounds of ammunition.

A one-pager on the bill is available here.

Full text of the bill is available here.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Southbound travel plan announced

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Transport & Logistics Bureau announced today that the Southbound Travel Scheme is targeted to be launched in November.

The automated carparks of the Airport Authority at the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge (HZMB) Hong Kong Port form part of the Southbound Travel Scheme, providing “park and fly” arrangements before the Hong Kong control point, while Guangdong vehicles entering into the urban area are required to undergo vehicle inspection and other procedures.

Secretary for Transport & Logistics told reporters this afternoon that the target is to achieve simultaneous implementation of the entry of Guangdong vehicles into Hong Kong and the parking of the vehicles in the Airport Authority’s automated car park.

Ms Chan noted the simultaneous implementation of both parts of the scheme will be in November, adding that the exact timing will be subject to follow-up discussions between the Hong Kong and Guangdong authorities.

The Airport Authority’s “park and fly” carpark has 1,800 spaces and it has developed a booking system. For entry into the urban area, it will start with a 100 daily booking quota to test the system and procedural arrangements.

From now till November, the governments of Guangdong and Hong Kong will actively formulate the arrangements for the Southbound Travel Scheme in a prudent and orderly manner, including management arrangements, system interface, construction works, facilitation measures, port clearance, monitoring measures, insurance arrangements, publicity work and full-scale drills.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: New FBI Headquarters in Washington, D.C.

Source: US FBI

The FBI and the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) on July 1 announced the selection of the Ronald Reagan Building complex in Washington, D.C., as the new location for FBI Headquarters.

The announcement follows nearly two decades of attempts to find the needed space to meet the FBI’s mission and workforce requirements. Previous efforts focused on constructing a new suburban campus, which would have cost the taxpayers billions of dollars and would have taken years to construct. In support of the administration’s goal to optimize the federal real-estate portfolio, the GSA and FBI identified an existing federal property. The Ronald Reagan Building complex provides a world-class facility that supports the FBI’s critical mission and saves money for taxpayers.

“FBI’s existing headquarters at the Hoover building is a great example of a government building that has accumulated years of deferred maintenance, suffering from an aging water system to concrete falling off the structure,” said GSA Acting Administrator Stephen Ehikian. “I am proud of the GSA’s commitment to working with Director Patel and his FBI team to find a building that best supports their mission and their people.”

“This is a historic moment for the FBI,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Through our strong partnerships with members of Congress and GSA, we are ushering FBI Headquarters into a new era and providing our agents of justice a safer place to work. Moving to the Ronald Reagan Building is the most cost effective and resource efficient way to carry out our mission to protect the American people and uphold the Constitution.”

“This move not only provides a world-class location for the FBI’s public servants, but it also saves Americans billions of dollars on new construction and avoids more than $300 million in deferred maintenance costs at the J. Edgar Hoover facility,” said GSA Public Buildings Service Commissioner Michael Peters. “We are proud to partner with Director Patel to drive efficiency and improve the quality of space for a productive workforce in service to national security and taxpayers.”

The Reagan Building complex is currently home to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and other tenants. The GSA will continue to support and work with CBP on space that allows them to fulfill their mission while the transition of the FBI to the Reagan Building commences.

MIL Security OSI –

July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI: 9th Annual Afognak Youth Charity Golf Tournament Welcomes Lofa Tatupu
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

ANCHORAGE, Alaska, July 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — On Thursday, July 10^th, the 9^th Annual Afognak Youth Charity Golf Tournament will be held at the Anchorage Golf Course and will feature celebrity guest, Lofa Tatupu.

As a former Seattle Seahawk, Tatupu’s NFL career included a Super Bowl appearance and three Pro Bowl selections as a linebacker. Tatupu is committed to education and training as was evident when he went on to serve as an assistant coach with the Seahawks where he demonstrated healthy habits, hard work, and perseverance.

Tatupu will help kick off the inaugural youth golf clinic this year following the Tournament to celebrate and encourage Alutiiq youth to stay active and participate in community activities.

To date, the Tournament has raised over $500,000 for Tribal youth programs operated by the Native Village of Afognak and the Native Village of Port Lions in the Kodiak Archipelago. Tournament hosts support the following Tribal youth development programs as part of a responsibility to strengthen Ag’wanermiut “Afognak people”:
- Dig Afognak Camp – Alutiiq youth culture camp established in 1998 for youth ages nine to 14 and families; Alutiiq Language & Music Camp and Harvesting & Survival Camp are highlights of the summer camp season.
- Afterschool & Alutiiq Week Cultural Activities
- Cultural Workshops – traditional food preparation and processing
- Alutiiq Language Resources – supports family language nights and other programs
- Preschool Program Activities – supports preschool graduation and other activities
- Family Activities Program – supports youth activities with family engagement several times per week
These programs are an invaluable way for young people to learn the Alutiiq language and to practice traditional harvest, survival skills, and healthy relationships. They provide intergenerational opportunities for the Alutiiq community to share cultural learning, skill building in their homelands, and to celebrate and invest in Alutiiq youth.

The Tournament provides a great networking opportunity for participants to connect with leaders of Alaska Native Corporations, the resource development industry, large financial institutions, and many other Alaska business leaders, such as GCI, Koniag, Inc., KeyBank, Delta Airlines, Southern Glazers, and Odom. To learn more or to become a valued sponsor, visit the Afognak Youth Charity Golf Tournament webpage at www.afognakgolf.com.

Afognak Native Corporation is an Alaska Native village corporation serving the Kodiak Alutiiq people of Afognak and Port Lions.

The MIL Network –
July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI: 9th Annual Afognak Youth Charity Golf Tournament Welcomes Lofa Tatupu
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

ANCHORAGE, Alaska, July 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — On Thursday, July 10^th, the 9^th Annual Afognak Youth Charity Golf Tournament will be held at the Anchorage Golf Course and will feature celebrity guest, Lofa Tatupu.

As a former Seattle Seahawk, Tatupu’s NFL career included a Super Bowl appearance and three Pro Bowl selections as a linebacker. Tatupu is committed to education and training as was evident when he went on to serve as an assistant coach with the Seahawks where he demonstrated healthy habits, hard work, and perseverance.

Tatupu will help kick off the inaugural youth golf clinic this year following the Tournament to celebrate and encourage Alutiiq youth to stay active and participate in community activities.

To date, the Tournament has raised over $500,000 for Tribal youth programs operated by the Native Village of Afognak and the Native Village of Port Lions in the Kodiak Archipelago. Tournament hosts support the following Tribal youth development programs as part of a responsibility to strengthen Ag’wanermiut “Afognak people”:
- Dig Afognak Camp – Alutiiq youth culture camp established in 1998 for youth ages nine to 14 and families; Alutiiq Language & Music Camp and Harvesting & Survival Camp are highlights of the summer camp season.
- Afterschool & Alutiiq Week Cultural Activities
- Cultural Workshops – traditional food preparation and processing
- Alutiiq Language Resources – supports family language nights and other programs
- Preschool Program Activities – supports preschool graduation and other activities
- Family Activities Program – supports youth activities with family engagement several times per week
These programs are an invaluable way for young people to learn the Alutiiq language and to practice traditional harvest, survival skills, and healthy relationships. They provide intergenerational opportunities for the Alutiiq community to share cultural learning, skill building in their homelands, and to celebrate and invest in Alutiiq youth.

The Tournament provides a great networking opportunity for participants to connect with leaders of Alaska Native Corporations, the resource development industry, large financial institutions, and many other Alaska business leaders, such as GCI, Koniag, Inc., KeyBank, Delta Airlines, Southern Glazers, and Odom. To learn more or to become a valued sponsor, visit the Afognak Youth Charity Golf Tournament webpage at www.afognakgolf.com.

Afognak Native Corporation is an Alaska Native village corporation serving the Kodiak Alutiiq people of Afognak and Port Lions.

The MIL Network –
July 3, 2025

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