NewzIntel.com

Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI Security: Court-Authorized Operation Disrupts Worldwide Botnet Used by People’s Republic of China State-Sponsored Hackers

    Source: US FBI

    Note: View the affidavit here.

    The Justice Department today announced a court-authorized law enforcement operation that disrupted a botnet consisting of more than 200,000 consumer devices in the United States and worldwide. As described in court documents unsealed in the Western District of Pennsylvania, the botnet devices were infected by People’s Republic of China (PRC) state-sponsored hackers working for Integrity Technology Group, a company based in Beijing, and known to the private sector as “Flax Typhoon.”

    The botnet malware infected numerous types of consumer devices, including small-office/home-office (SOHO) routers, internet protocol (IP) cameras, digital video recorders (DVRs), and network-attached storage (NAS) devices. The malware connected these thousands of infected devices into a botnet, controlled by Integrity Technology Group, which was used to conduct malicious cyber activity disguised as routine internet traffic from the infected consumer devices. The court-authorized operation took control of the hackers’ computer infrastructure and, among other steps, sent disabling commands through that infrastructure to the malware on the infected devices. During the course of the operation, there was an attempt to interfere with the FBI’s remediation efforts through a distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attack targeting the operational infrastructure that the FBI was utilizing to effectuate the court’s orders. That attack was ultimately unsuccessful in preventing the FBI’s disruption of the botnet.

    “The Justice Department is zeroing in on the Chinese government backed hacking groups that target the devices of innocent Americans and pose a serious threat to our national security,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “As we did earlier this year, the Justice Department has again destroyed a botnet used by PRC-backed hackers to infiltrate consumer devices here in the United States and around the world. We will continue to aggressively counter the threat that China’s state- sponsored hacking groups pose to the American people.”

    “Our takedown of this state-sponsored botnet reflects the Department’s all-tools approach to disrupting cyber criminals. This network, managed by a PRC government contractor, hijacked hundreds of thousands of private routers, cameras, and other consumer devices to create a malicious system for the PRC to exploit,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco. “Today should serve as a warning to cybercriminals preying on Americans – if you continue to come for us, we will come for you.”

    “This dynamic operation demonstrates, once again, the Justice Department’s resolve in countering the threats posed by PRC state-sponsored hackers,” said Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the National Security Division. “For the second time this year, we have disrupted a botnet used by PRC proxies to conceal their efforts to hack into networks in the U.S. and around the world to steal information and hold our infrastructure at risk. Our message to these hackers is clear: if you build it, we will bust it.”

    “The disruption of this worldwide botnet is part of the FBI’s commitment to using technical operations to help protect victims, expose publicly the scope of these criminal hacking campaigns, and to use the adversary’s tools against them to remove malicious infrastructure from the virtual battlefield,” said FBI Deputy Director Paul Abbate. “The FBI’s unique legal authorities allowed it to lead an international operation with partners that collectively disconnected this botnet from its China-based hackers at Integrity Technology Group.”

    “The targeted hacking of hundreds of thousands of innocent victims in the United States and around the world shows the breadth and aggressiveness of PRC state-sponsored hackers,” said U.S. Attorney Eric G. Olshan for the Western District of Pennsylvania. “This court-authorized operation disrupted a sophisticated botnet designed to steal sensitive information and launch disruptive cyber attacks. We will continue to work with our partners inside and outside government, using every tool at our disposal, to defend and maintain global cybersecurity.”

    “The FBI’s investigation revealed that a publicly-traded, China-based company is openly selling its customers the ability to hack into and control thousands of consumer devices worldwide. This operation sends a clear message to the PRC that the United States will not tolerate this shameless criminal conduct,” said Special Agent in Charge Stacey Moy of the FBI San Diego Field Office.

    According to the court documents, the botnet was developed and controlled by Integrity Technology Group, a publicly-traded company headquartered in Beijing. The company built an online application allowing its customers to log in and control specified infected victim devices, including with a menu of malicious cyber commands using a tool called “vulnerability-arsenal.” The online application was prominently labelled “KRLab,” one of the main public brands used by Integrity Technology Group.

    The FBI assesses that Integrity Technology Group, in addition to developing and controlling the botnet, is responsible for computer intrusion activities attributed to China-based hackers known by the private sector as “Flax Typhoon.” Microsoft Threat Intelligence described Flax Typhoon as nation-state actors based out of China, active since 2021, who have targeted government agencies and education, critical manufacturing, and information technology organizations in Taiwan, and elsewhere. The FBI’s investigation has corroborated Microsoft’s conclusions, finding that Flax Typhoon has successfully attacked multiple U.S. and foreign corporations, universities, government agencies, telecommunications providers, and media organizations.

    A cybersecurity advisory describing Integrity Technology Group tactics, techniques and procedures was also published today by the FBI, the National Security Agency, U.S. Cyber Command’s Cyber National Mission Force, and partner agencies in Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. 

    The government’s malware disabling commands, which interacted with the malware’s native functionality, were extensively tested prior to the operation. As expected, the operation did not affect the legitimate functions of, or collect content information from, the infected devices. The FBI is providing notice to U.S. owners of devices that were affected by this court-authorized operation. The FBI is contacting those victims through their internet service provider, who will provide notice to their customers.

    The FBI’s San Diego Field Office and Cyber Division, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania, and the National Security Cyber Section of the Justice Department’s National Security Division led the domestic disruption effort. Assistance was also provided by the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section. These efforts would not have been successful without the collaboration of partners, including French authorities, and Lumen Technologies’ threat intelligence group, Black Lotus Labs, which first identified and described this botnet, which it named Raptor Train, in July 2023.

    If you believe you have a compromised computer or device, please visit the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) or report online to CISA. You may also contact your local FBI field office directly.

    The FBI continues to investigate Integrity Technology Group’s and Flax Typhoon’s computer intrusion activities.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Post-Budget speech to Auckland Business Chamber

    Source: New Zealand Government

    It’s a pleasure to be invited here today by the Auckland Chamber for my first post-Budget speech.

    The Chamber is the peak body for the Auckland business sector, where so many of our country’s businesses are based.

    Our Government backs business-friendly policies because, ultimately, business success underpins our success as a nation. 

    I am going to talk to you today about the Budget’s business growth measures. 

    Thriving businesses deliver the growth, jobs and incomes that New Zealanders need to get ahead.

    One of those thriving businesses is hosting us right here. 

    If you’ll pardon the pun, I reckon that Recorp is the can manufacturing company with the can-do attitude.

    I admire the scale of your ambition to eliminate the use of single use plastic bottles in New Zealand by 2030.

    My congratulations to you Bruce Parton and your team, and also to Rob Fyfe whose vision and commitment helped get this company up and running.

    One of Recorp’s critical points of difference is the quality of its manufacturing equipment.

    You invested heavily at the outset in the technology that enables you to accurately tailor orders to match customer requirements, regardless of size.

    You have set an example for other new Kiwi businesses. Many are following it, but it’s a challenge for others.

    We know that capital investment is a key to business success. So often, it’s the piece that gives companies the edge over competitors at home and overseas.

    One of the things I hear from business leaders is the difficulty many Kiwi businesses face raising capital to invest in the equipment and other assets they need to succeed.

    Lack of good quality capital has become a barrier to growth.

    This Government has acted to lower that barrier.

    The Investment Boost tax incentive announced in the Budget gives businesses an adrenalin boost to invest in the new productive assets they need to succeed.

    I’m really proud that we’ve managed to incorporate this exciting new initiative in the Budget.

    I expect almost all of you will have heard something about Investment Boost in recent days. 

    You may even have heard our critics say in the media that it won’t make much difference.

    Well, our MPs have been out since the Budget was delivered and what they’ve heard is that Investment Boost will be a game-changer for many Kiwi businesses.

    Like the manufacturer now planning a $70 million capital expansion over the next two years to install a fully automated plant.

    Like the chicken farmer now planning to raise his investment in upgrades and new assets from $12 million to $18 million over the next 12 months. He said this was the “best news for our sector in a long time”.

    Like the caterer with a new kitchen to fit out, who says they will be “thousands and thousands better off”.

    Like Robbie Smith, owner of Stevenson and Taylor, the large Hawke’s Bay agricultural machinery business. He has already seen a jump in sales since the announcement, with one customer purchasing two tractors. He said: “This initiative is great news for local businesses.”

    Like Pic’s Peanut Butter Chief Executive Aimee McCammon, who thinks Investment Boost will be “super helpful” for the many small to medium-sized businesses like hers that are running on old kit.

    Or like Chartered Accountants New Zealand country head Peter Vial who says  the announcement was more generous than expected and will significantly increase productivity and growth 

    He says: “New Zealand’s poor productivity is not due to poor work ethic or laziness, but rather a lack of capital investment in equipment, machinery and technology. The Investment Boost tax incentive strikes at the heart of this.”

    I couldn’t agree more.

    Then there’s the semi-retired accountant who was inundated with calls on the Friday morning after the Budget from clients looking to take advantage of Investment Boost. 

    He said: “It is a long time since I have seen a reaction like this to the Budget.”

    I’m going to talk more about Investment Boost soon – how it works, with some examples of the savings it offers. 

    But I’d like to start by putting a bit of context around the Budget, and why we’ve taken the approach we have.

    The Budget is a responsible Budget for uncertain times.

    I’ve been calling it the no-BS Budget.

    We’ve levelled with Kiwis about the challenges we face as a nation. 

    No rainbows or unicorns. No lolly scrambles. Just straight talk, and responsible actions.

    We inherited a country with its bank account run down and the credit card maxed out.

    Thanks to the previous Government’s refusal to turn off the spending tap after Covid, public debt ballooned from just 18.6 per cent of GDP in 2019 to 41.7 per cent in 2024, just five years later.

    We’ve slipped back to the bad old days of the eighties and nineties, when debt servicing was among the biggest government spending items.

    Today, about one dollar in every 15 of the Government’s operating spending goes to paying the interest bill on our borrowings.

    Our political opponents say that’s all good. Other countries have higher debt, so we can just borrow and spend more to get ourselves out of trouble.

    That kind of talk ignores the reality that New Zealand’s economy is different to many of those other more highly indebted economies. 

    We are small, isolated and heavily reliant on overseas trade. We have very limited ability to influence the global financial and trading conditions that affect our livelihood.

    This audience needs no reminding of how unstable and unpredictable the world trading environment is right now. 

    Further, we are a country that’s vulnerable to sudden, costly shocks. 

    One day another big earthquake, cyclone, pandemic or biosecurity breach is going to hit us. Recovering from events like those is even harder if there’s nothing left in the kitty to pay for it. 

    The good news is that the economic recovery is under way. 

    Inflation is down and is forecast to stay within the 1 to 3 per cent target band.

    Interest rates are down, and forecast to fall further. 

    The Budget forecasts GDP to rise to healthy rates of around 3 per cent in each of the next two years.

    Wages are forecast to grow faster than the inflation rate, making wage earners better off, on average, in real terms.

    The Budget also forecasts that 240,000 more people will be in work over the forecast period to mid-2029.

    Many New Zealanders may not be feeling better off now, but over time they will – provided we stay the course.

    The recovery remains fragile. Global uncertainty has caused Treasury to peg back its forecasts, especially in the near term.

    The recovery isn’t in danger, but it is likely to be slower than previously forecast.

    As a government, we’re talking straight with New Zealanders about the way ahead. 

    About getting public debt under control and nurturing the economic recovery now under way.

    About carefully managing the public purse. Making sure we’re using taxpayer dollars to pay for the must-haves, rather than the nice to haves.

    About doing nothing to put the economic recovery at risk – because a growing economy is the route to higher living standards for everyone.

    But we’re also clear that the no-BS Budget doesn’t mean penny-pinching across the board.

    We get that New Zealanders are struggling with the cost of living. The Budget responds with some carefully targeted help, including rates relief for more SuperGold Card holders, 12-month prescriptions to save the cost of repeats, better targeting Working for Families to low and middle-income earners, and continuing funding for food banks.

    We’re also investing more in health, education, law and order and other frontline public services.

    We’ve done that while also finding room to invest in business success.

    The Budget demonstrates that we truly can walk and chew gum at the same time.

    It’s about hope grounded in reality.

    That we can continue to invest in the things that matter, while staying on a debt reduction and economic growth track.

    That we can reduce government spending as a share of the economy and return the government’s books to balance.

    We’ve done it despite reducing our operating allowance from $2.4 billion to $1.3 billion a year.

    That’s the lowest allowance in a decade. The adjustment was made to keep government spending on a tight track, recognising changing forecasts due to the uncertain economic conditions.

    Despite the smaller discretionary kitty, we’ve still been able to deliver $5 billion in new spending and $1.7 billion for the Investment Boost tax incentive that I talked about earlier.

    That’s because most of the spending increase is funded by savings.

    We’ve been able to find $5.3 billion in savings through reprioritising and cost reductions across government.

    Half the savings come from changes to the pay equity regime. 

    To be clear, I am absolutely committed to pay equity. But we have to be sure that future settlements stick to fixing pay discrepancies between occupations that are based only on sex-based discrimination, and not for other reasons. 

    Otherwise, pay equity negotiations simply become a surrogate for a normal wage bargaining round.

    Even our political opponents are starting to realise that the previous pay equity regime was simply out of control. The scale of settlements coming at us would have limited our ability to invest in health, education and the other public services that the women – and men – of New Zealand rely on.

    We’ve also put another $1.8 billion towards investment in health and education infrastructure like hospitals and schools.

    And we’re putting $1.7 billion into what I believe is the single most important policy in this year’s Budget – the Investment Boost tax incentive that I talked about earlier.

    Investment Boost is available right now to every business represented in this room.

    Businesses large and small – manufacturers like Recorp, farmers, tradies, whoever.

    It’s for all those businesses that are keeping their heads above water but need a bit of help to get beyond that, by getting their hands on the productive assets they need to grow.

    Assets like machinery, tools, equipment, technology, vehicles and industrial buildings.

    Investment Boost applies to new assets purchased by New Zealand businesses. It can also apply to second-hand assets imported from overseas.

    It excludes land, residential buildings, and assets already in use in New Zealand.

    There’s no cap on the value of new investments. All businesses, regardless of size, are eligible.

    It allows you to immediately deduct 20 per cent of the cost of a new asset from your taxable income, on top of depreciation.

    That means a much lower tax bill in the year of purchase. The remaining book value is depreciated at normal rates.

    Since a dollar now is more valuable than a dollar in future, the cashflow from investments is more attractive and the after-tax returns are better.

    It means that more investment opportunities stack up financially, so more investments will be made.

    Let’s look at an example.

    A manufacturer – let’s call it Green Kiwi – wants to invest in a new environmental test chamber, at a cost of $200,000.

    Before Investment Boost, the company could claim an annual depreciation deduction of 10.5 per cent. That would reduce Green Kiwi’s taxable income by $21,000 a year over its useful life.

    With Investment Boost, it can now also claim 20 per cent of the value of the asset – that’s $40,000 – in the year of purchase, as well as the standard depreciation on the remaining 80 per cent of its value

    Together, these deductions reduce the company’s taxable income in that year by $56,800.

    This translates to an additional $10,000 off the company’s tax bill that year.

    That’s $10,000 more that Green Kiwi has to reinvest in the assets it needs to grow.

    Another example. Farmer Brown gets a woolshed built for $150,000. The extra deductions he gets under Investment Boost mean his tax bill will be $8,274 less than it would otherwise have been, meaning more to invest in shearing equipment in his new shed.

    And another one. Pam the plumber buys a ute for $60,000. Investment Boost gives her $2906 more than she would otherwise have had to buy new tools.

    Over the next 20 years, Investment Boost is expected to lift New Zealand’s capital stock by 1.6 per cent, leading to wages rising by 1.5 per cent and GDP by 1 per cent.

    These are estimates, not precise values. But officials estimate that roughly half those benefits will be achieved in the first five years.

    The Government did consider reducing the company tax rate as an alternative to Investment Boost. But dollar for dollar, Investment Boost raises investment more than a company tax rate reduction as it only applies to new investments, not those made in the past.

    The other advantage of Investment Boost is that the benefits are expected to flow to workers.

    Inland Revenue’s Regulatory Impact Statement states that “the majority of the increase in national income from Investment Boost would flow to workers. This increase would come from a combination of higher wages and higher employment. We therefore expect that the benefits of Investment Boost will be spread broadly across a wide range of New Zealanders.”

    There you have it. Ultimately, all workers benefit from Investment Boost.

    There’s a number of other business growth initiatives in this Budget.

    We’re setting up a new agency, Invest New Zealand, to attract global capital, business and talent to this country. An experienced advisory group chaired by Rob Morrison, has been appointed to support its establishment. 

    We’re changing our thin capitalisation tax rules to encourage foreign investment in our infrastructure. We’re consulting now on the details of that.

    We’re allowing employee share schemes to defer their tax liability, to help start-ups and unlisted companies to compete for and retain talent.

    We’re re-prioritising our science and technology funding towards growth-promoting investment in areas like gene technology. We want our researchers to focus on real-world problems and innovations that can be commercialised.

    And we’re supporting our highly successful film and television sector by increasing the screen production rebate to just over a billion dollars across this year and the next four years.

    We don’t subsidise business as a rule, but when it comes to the screen industry, a rebate is the price of entry to the game.

    Over the last decade overseas production companies have invested $7.5 billion in New Zealand. We simply wouldn’t get that kind of investment in future without continuing the rebate.

    We’re also replacing the much-maligned Resource Management Act to unlock investment and growth across the country. You’ll be hearing more about that in the months ahead.

    No doubt you have heard about the changes to KiwiSaver, which the media has focused pretty heavily on.

    Essentially, we are raising the default employee and matching employer contribution rate from 3 to 4 per cent over the next three years. To ensure the scheme’s sustainability, we are also reducing the government contribution by half, to just over $260 a year. 

    We’re also extending the government contribution to 16- and 17-year-olds, to foster the savings habit, but removing it altogether for people earning more than $180,000 a year, because they don’t need it.

    I acknowledge that change impacts on employers. But to allow time to adjust, we are phasing it in over the next three years, and we are not making the new rate compulsory – employees can choose to opt back down to a three per cent contribution if they wish.

    The changes are designed to lift our retirement savings rates which, frankly, are too low, especially when compared with other countries like Australia. 

    Higher retirement savings deliver big benefits for individuals and for the country. Our financial institutions have a larger pool of capital to invest back in the economy, and the pressure on Government to financially support retired New Zealanders is eased.

    To finish, I want to touch on where this Budget takes us.

    Our decisions mean we are on track to bend the debt curve downwards without applying a blowtorch to public services.

    We are taking a deliberate, medium-term approach to fiscal consolidation.

    This is far from austerity, as some commentators have claimed. In fact, it is what you do to avoid austerity.

    There’s no doubt that balancing the books is challenging.

    Some would do it with higher taxes; we are doing it by controlling growth in spending.

    We’re saying to New Zealanders: we’re about no BS, just straight talk about the choices we face as a country.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Spitfire display part of packed Portsmouth Armed Forces Day on 21 June

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    A Battle of Britain Spitfire will take to the sky as part of a packed Portsmouth Armed Forces Day on Saturday 21 June.

    Image from Battle of Britain Memorial Flight by Gary Eason

    Southsea Common will again burst to life for a free community day of military parades, a Royal Navy ‘Raiders’ parachute jump and arena displays, plus a live music stage and lots of other entertainment.

    The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight team will be performing a full spitfire display to delight the crowds, with thousands again expected to turn out.

    Portsmouth City Council organises the annual event to let Portsmouth residents and families come together and honour our current and former armed forces.

    BAE Systems is continuing its commitment to Armed Forces Day by headline sponsoring the event and enabling the council to put on such a large programme for the whole of Portsmouth to enjoy.

    Council Leader Cllr Steve Pitt said:

    “In what is the 80th anniversary year of the end of the Second World War, we are very proud to once again host a day for the whole of Portsmouth to come and honour and celebrate our armed forces community.

    “We’re expecting well over 10,000 people to again attend, and they will be treated to a full day of action and excitement, including a Royal Navy parachute jump and a full Spitfire display.

    “Our thanks again to BAE Systems for its support, which enables us to make Portsmouth Armed Forces Day the hugely popular event it is.”

    Scott Jamieson, Managing Director of BAE Systems’ M&L Defence Solutions, said:

    “We’re incredibly proud to continue our support of Portsmouth Armed Forces Day. It’s a popular event in the local calendar, offering an opportunity for the local community to come together to recognise and celebrate the incredible contribution of our Armed Forces community – those in service, veterans and their families.”

    The main arena will host the full military parade led by the Rose and Thistle Pipe Band, plus dog shows and the Spitfire display above.

    This year there’s a dedicated bike arena with BMX tricks and jumps in the afternoon.

    There will be a Field Gun Arena to explore, and a music stage with live performances from local acts through the day.

    The 6 Regiment Army Air Corps Reserves are bringing a static Gazelle helicopter, there’s a tactical wing supply from Joint Helicopter Group, plus displays and stalls from veterans, charities and military organisations.

    The popular free climbing wall is back, plus there will be full funfair with rides to purchase, and plenty of food and refreshments on sale.

    The free event runs from 10am to 4pm.

    Snows BMW & MINI Portsmouth is a supporting sponsor of the event, and will be bringing a selection of electric vehicles from across their range for people to view.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Latta Urges Senate to Vote to Strengthen Medicaid, Prioritize American Energy Dominance, and Reduce Fraud and Abuse in Federal Government

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bob Latta (R-Bowling Green Ohio)

    Latta Urges Senate to Vote to Strengthen Medicaid, Prioritize American Energy Dominance, and Reduce Fraud and Abuse in Federal Government

    Washington, May 22, 2025

    Today, the House of Representatives passed the Reconciliation Bill, with Congressman Bob Latta (R-OH-5) voting in favor as it now heads to the Senate. Congressman Latta released the following statement:  

    “I am proud to have joined my colleagues in voting in favor of the One, Big, Beautiful Bill that will help the United States get back on track. House Republicans will continue to stay unified and deliver on the promises made to the American people. Today’s vote takes us one step closer to strengthening Medicaid, prioritizing American energy dominance, keepings Americans’ tax rates lower, cutting wasteful spending, and reducing fraud and abuse in the Federal government through the reconciliation process. I urge my Senate colleagues to act quickly to get this bill across the finish line.”  

    Congressman Latta voted in favor of the Energy and Commerce budget reconciliation markup. Read his statement HERE.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Titus Prevents Federal Land Grab in Southern Nevada

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Dina Titus (1st District of Nevada)

    Congresswoman Dina Titus announced today that she has successfully removed language from the Republican budget bill that would have sold off at least 65,000 acres of land in Southern Nevada. Rep. Titus has been leading the effort to remove the provision since Rep. Mark Amodei introduced an amendment in the early morning hours of May 7th to sell off public lands and direct the proceeds to the federal government to pay for tax breaks for the rich.

    “This is the right decision,” Congresswoman Titus said. “The Republican budget bill already forces states to deal with billions of dollars in federal cuts to Medicaid, as well as to education, food, and housing assistance programs. The Amodei amendment would have created an additional burden on taxpayers who would have ultimately had to front the costs of infrastructure improvements needed for developments in distant areas. It would have further strained our limited water resources. On top of that, this provision would have broken precedent by sending money back to Washington D.C. rather than keeping it in Southern Nevada to invest in conservation, preserving critical ecosystems, wildfire prevention efforts, and public schools.”

    Just after midnight on Monday morning, Rep. Titus was ready to defend Southern Nevadans by introducing her amendment to nullify the proposed land sales in Clark County. The language was removed in the manager’s amendment, however, after the Congresswoman worked successfully with her colleagues on both sides of the aisle to ensure the provision was struck.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Minneapolis Woman Sentenced to 51 Months in Prison for Role in Feeding Our Future $250 Million Fraud Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MINNEAPOLIS – Sahra Nur of Minneapolis has been sentenced to 51 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release for her role in a $250 million fraud scheme that exploited a federally funded child nutrition program during the COVID-19 pandemic, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick. Nur was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $5,000,240.

    According to court documents, from December 2020 through January 2022, Sahra Mohamed Nur, 63, knowingly and willfully conspired with others in a fraudulent scheme to obtain and misappropriate millions in federal child nutrition funds. As the owner and operator of S & S Catering Inc., Nur initially enrolled in the Federal Child Nutrition Program as a food distribution site under the sponsorship of Feeding Our Future. As the fraud scheme progressed, S & S Catering operated as a vendor for other food distribution sites affiliated with Feeding Our Future.

    Between September 2020 and April 2021, Nur claimed to have served over 1.2 million meals to children from S & S Catering alone. Between December 2020 and December 2021, sites who used S & S Catering as a vendor reported serving more than eight million meals through the food program. Based on their fraudulent claims, S & S Catering received more than $10 million in payment from these companies they purportedly served food to, and over $16 million in reimbursements from Feeding Our Future. Rather feed children during the pandemic, Nur misappropriated the funds for her own personal benefit, such as commercial real estate.

    Nur was one of eight defendants charged in a 23-count indictment in September 2022. On September 7, 2023, Nur pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud and one count of money laundering. She was sentenced today in U.S. District Court by Judge Nancy E. Brasel.  In imposing sentence, Judge Brasel called the loss amount “staggering” and explained that “public trust in government programs has significant decreased” as a result of the defendant’s fraud.  Judge Brasel noted that it was “tragic” how the fraud scheme has damaged the reputation of Somali-American community.

    The case is the result of an investigation by the FBI, IRS – Criminal Investigations, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Minnesota Joseph H. Thompson, Harry M. Jacobs, Matthew S. Ebert, and Daniel W. Bobier prosecuted the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig Baune is handling the seizure and forfeiture of assets.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Massage Therapist Indicted for First Degree Sexual Abuse of a Client

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

                WASHINGTON – Andrew Ramirez, 42, of Jefferson, MD, was arraigned in Superior Court yesterday on one count of first-degree sexual abuse of a client and one count of second-degree sexual abuse of a client, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

                The case is currently scheduled for a status hearing on July 11, 2025. 

                According to the government’s evidence, at approximately 12:15 p.m. on July 2, 2023, the victim arrived at the Salamander Hotel in Washington, D.C. to receive spa services. The victim met the defendant, who was a masseuse at the hotel, in the spa room. During the massage and with a towel covering his back, the defendant asked him to turn around. As the victim turned over, the towel fell off, leaving the victim naked on his back, with a towel covering his head. Ramirez continued the body oil massage. The victim reported feeling what he believed to be the defendant performing oral sex on him. He reported what had happened to members of the hotel team and called 911.   The defendant as linked to the alleged sexual assault of the victim through DNA testing and other investigative tools.

                This case is being investigated by the MPD. Anyone with information on this matter, or who believes they were assaulted by the defendant, can call the MPD Sex Assault Unit at 202-727-3700.

                This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Kelley of the Sex Offense and Domestic Violence Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: US structural heart occlusion market sees early 2025 growth amid trade uncertainty, says GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    US structural heart occlusion market sees early 2025 growth amid trade uncertainty, says GlobalData

    Posted in Medical Devices

    The US Structural Heart Occlusion (SHO) market posted a notable 39% year-over-year revenue increase in Q1 2025, amid heightened trade policy uncertainty following President Donald Trump’s re-election and the swift introduction of new tariff measures in early 2025, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    Trump’s new tariff regime includes a 10% global baseline and a “reciprocal” tariff framework that has unsettled global trade norms. With broad tariffs on strategic sectors and a 90-day pause on some reciprocal tariffs, businesses and healthcare providers are facing a shifting economic landscape.

    According to data from GlobalData’s panel of medical facilities, March 2025 revenue growth in the SHO market grew over 50% compared to March 2024, signaling a late-quarter surge in demand.

    Thomas Fleming, Medical Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “The surge in growth may be less about increased patient demand and more about precautionary stockpiling. Hospitals appear to be accelerating procurement of high-value medical devices—such as those used for structural heart occlusion—in anticipation of rising costs and supply disruptions. This response reflects growing concerns about the sustainability of supply chains and the potential financial impact of extended tariff enforcement.”

    Fleming continues: “Historically, the US has held a leadership role in the global SHO market, driven by high incidence rates of structural heart conditions and robust innovation in cardiac care. However, the current environment marks a sharp contrast with previous expectations of stable, predictable growth. With global supply chains in flux and trade negotiations still unsettled, market stakeholders are left navigating increased risk.”

    Fleming concludes: “While Q1’s growth may appear encouraging at first glance, it underscores the reactive measures health systems are taking in an uncertain policy environment. The long-term effects of these tariffs on device pricing, research investments, and patient outcomes remain to be seen, leaving the sector in a state of cautious watchfulness.”

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Global space economy market to surpass $511 billion in 2029, forecasts GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Global space economy market to surpass $511 billion in 2029, forecasts GlobalData

    Posted in Strategic Intelligence

    The global space economy market is forecast to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.0% from $421.0 billion in 2024 to $511.2 billion in 2029, driven by an increase in the deployment of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, productivity improvements in satellite equipment manufacturing, the competitive launch services landscape, and demand for services around data communications, navigation, and Earth observation. according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    GlobalData’s latest Strategic Intelligence report, “The Space Economy” reveals that space applications, which include satellite communications, navigation, and Earth observation, is the largest segment of the space economy and will grow at a CAGR of 2.9% to reach $334.8 billion by 2029.

    Falling manufacturing and launch costs, non-Western companies’ entrance into the space economy market, increased space militarization, and new uses for data from space are the other growth drivers of the space economy.

    William Rojas, Research Director, Strategic Intelligence at GlobalData, comments: “Different scenarios indicate different growth rates for the space economy market over the coming decade. Issues that may restrict growth include a continuation of the currently challenging global economic environment, Russia’s permanent exit from the space economy, and whether Chinese companies can fulfill the country’s space ambitions. The uncertain financial viability of young satellite and rocket companies and the market’s low return on investment in the short term, combined with the current global economic environment, could lead to a pause in investor confidence in the space economy beyond 2025.”

    Future market growth will also depend on the development of reusable rockets and more affordable and frequent ride-sharing services that will increase payload slots on launch missions. The space tourism and colonization subsectors are unlikely to significantly contribute to the overall space economy market until after 2030.

    Rojas adds: “Space is no longer the sole domain of governments and incumbent aerospace and defense companies. Technological advances in manufacturing, propulsion, and the launch of rockets have made it much easier and less expensive to venture into space. Those businesses that pursued emerging opportunities have gained a first-mover advantage. SpaceX was the first private company to launch a spacecraft into orbit and return it safely to Earth. Currently, it charges clients $69.5 million per launch of the Falcon 9, its partially reusable medium-lift launch vehicle.”

    The sector has become incredibly competitive, with various start-ups developing concepts for cost-effective rockets and satellites to rival the aerospace giants. The large satellite groups continue to consolidate to compete with Starlink and the future Amazon Kuiper mega-constellations. Eutelsat and OneWeb merged in 2022, Viasat acquired Inmarsat in 2023, and SES acquired Intelsat in 2024. This market consolidation will continue.

    Rojas continues: ”Satellite broadband communications has become the new strategic imperative impacting national sovereignty, national security, and national digital infrastructure. Countries lagging in terrestrial broadband residential and enterprise infrastructure can use satellite broadband to help fill the gap with advanced countries and attract more foreign direct investment and the digitalization of industry sectors.”

    Technological advancements, such as spaceborne synthetic aperture radar (SAR) for detailed surface mapping and satellite-to-ground optical (laser) technology for ultra-high-speed data transmission, 5G Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN), and satellite device-to-device technology, will enhance remote sensing and communications capabilities. Quantum key distribution (QKD) for satellite communications could boost data transmission security for banks, data center companies, government data centers, and corporate data centers. These technologies will all benefit the space economy in 2025.

    Rojas concludes: “The space economy has been intertwined with the oil and gas and mining sector for several decades already, and now with the falling communications costs of satellite broadband combined with new technologies, many sectors from agriculture to maritime to emergency and disaster response to media will benefit from the pervasiveness of satellite coverage as well as the new capacity that is coming online, reflecting an increase of over 65X between 2015 and 2025.”

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Vaccines: why these young Africans are hesitant about them and what might change their minds

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Oluwaseyi Dolapo Somefun, Research associate, University of the Western Cape

    Vaccines have proved to be one of the most effective tools in fighting infectious diseases, but convincing people to get vaccinated can be tough. Especially young people.

    During the global COVID-19 pandemic, declared by the World Health Organization on 11 March 2020, many countries reported high levels of vaccine hesitancy among younger population groups. Negative healthcare experiences and general distrust of government have cultivated vaccine hesitancy across Africa. Misleading information about vaccine side-effects on social media adds to this challenge.

    This hesitancy continues today. A 2024 study on adolescents and young adults (aged 10 to 35) in sub-Saharan Africa found a vaccine acceptance rate of just 38.7%.

    These concerns were echoed in a recent study we carried out among 165 young adults in Nigeria, South Africa and Zambia, looking at attitudes towards the COVID-19 vaccine. We wanted to know what could be done to help improve future vaccine acceptance, inform campaigns and prepare for future public health responses.

    Participants were hesitant to be vaccinated, for various reasons, and suggested what policymakers could do to improve vaccine uptake.

    Understanding young people’s perspectives on vaccine hesitancy and what can be done to address this is crucial for improving vaccine acceptance in the future.

    What young adults told us

    Our research gathered data through focus groups and interviews.

    The participants described a fear of injections, uncertainty about side effects, distrust in healthcare systems and rude healthcare workers.

    Some participants were worried about the safety of the COVID-19 vaccine, particularly how it might affect those with pre-existing health conditions.

    Many believed that the vaccine was developed too quickly without sufficient testing and a lack of accessible information.

    Many expressed a strong fear of needles. A young South African woman aged 19 commented:

    I am afraid of injections, so for me, it would be better if there was something that could be taken orally, something you can drink.

    Getting over the hurdle

    We found young people often felt left out of vaccine conversations. They wanted to be part of the solution and make informed choices but needed the right tools and support to do so.

    Participants suggested practical ideas to help boost vaccine acceptance among their peers.

    Several highlighted the importance of assessing individual health status before administering vaccines, to avoid adverse interactions with existing medical conditions and treatments. They believed that situations where vaccines were mistakenly blamed for pre-existing illnesses or ongoing treatments could be avoided.

    Participants suggested innovative strategies to make vaccines more accessibile. Mobile vaccination sites and community-based outreach programmes were some of the suggestions.

    They must introduce mobile clinics, so that people don’t find themselves having to travel long distances to vaccinate. – 18-year-old male, South Africa

    Young people also suggested household visits to people who were immobile because of age, illness or disability.

    Many advocated for non-injectable vaccine options, such as oral medications or microneedle patches, which could improve accessibility and reduce anxiety.

    The oral polio vaccine, which has been widely used in global polio eradication efforts, is an example of a non-injectable vaccine.

    COVID-19 microneedle patch prototypes are being explored for clinical testing.

    The youth urged public figures, including politicians, celebrities and influencers, to publicly endorse the vaccine.

    It would be nice if the president could be shown on television receiving a vaccine so that we can see for ourselves whether he is given the same thing that everyone else receives. – 20-year-old male, South Africa

    More engaging videos, interactive interviews and testimonials from vaccinated individuals could be shared across social media platforms.

    The young people also emphasised the importance of comprehensive training for healthcare providers. They highlighted the need for healthcare professionals to provide respectful and empathetic care. They suggested that, by fostering respectful communication, healthcare providers could create a more welcoming and comfortable environment for their clients.

    In addition, providing vaccine education in schools could educate pupils so that they could make decisions on their own.

    Way forward

    Engaging young people as active participants in shaping public health strategies can help increase vaccine acceptance and ensure a healthier future for all.

    We believe that our findings can be applied in two ways.

    First, to inform the design of tailored interventions that better resonate with young people’s desires and needs, paving the way for increased vaccine uptake and acceptability.

    Second, to highlight areas where young people may need further information and engagement, to better understand some of the broader issues and why some of their recommendations might not be feasible in the short or longer term.

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

    – ref. Vaccines: why these young Africans are hesitant about them and what might change their minds – https://theconversation.com/vaccines-why-these-young-africans-are-hesitant-about-them-and-what-might-change-their-minds-249629

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ezell Applauds Passage of “One Big Beautiful Bill” Advancing President Trump’s America First Agenda

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mike Ezell (Mississippi 4th District)

    Today, U.S. Representative Mike Ezell (MS-04) issued the following statement after the House passed the One Big Beautiful Bill, a sweeping legislative package that delivers key wins for the American people and reinforces President Donald J. Trump’s America First agenda.

    “Today marks a pivotal moment for our country. With the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill, we are delivering on the promises made to the American people and advancing President Trump’s bold America First agenda,” Ezell said. “This bill makes the 2017 Trump tax cuts permanent, preventing the average taxpayer from seeing a 22% tax hike, strengthens our borders, revitalizes American industry, and restores the values that made our nation great. I was proud to support this legislation, and I will continue fighting every day to put our citizens first and ensure our government works for the people — not the other way around.”

    The One Big Beautiful Bill includes provisions aimed at securing the southern border, promoting domestic energy independence, cutting bureaucratic red tape, and protecting American jobs.

    Rep. Ezell has been a consistent supporter of pro-growth, pro-security policies and remains committed to standing with President Trump to deliver meaningful results for Mississippi’s Fourth District and the nation.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Fitzgerald Statement on the Passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Scott Fitzgerald (WI-05)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Scott Fitzgerald (WI-05) issued the following statement in response to the passage of the House Republican budget bill, better known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

    “This legislation is a victory for working Americans across the nation and delivers on our promise to bring tax relief, reduce government waste, and secure our border. It delivers the largest tax cut in American history—returns an average of $5,000 in annual take-home pay to hardworking Americans, makes the Trump Tax Cuts permanent, and increases the child tax credit. By eliminating taxes on tips and overtime pay, we’re ensuring that workers keep more of their hard-earned income.

    “The reconciliation bill also provides significant relief to seniors through a deduction of taxes on Social Security benefits. It protects America’s family farmers by preventing the death tax from impacting nearly two million farms—safeguarding generational livelihoods. 

    “It also strengthens Medicaid by rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse. It removes 1.4 million illegal aliens who are fraudulently receiving benefits—ensuring that Medicaid serves those who need it most: the disabled, children, pregnant women, and seniors. Additionally, by implementing work requirements for able-bodied, working-age adults, we are prioritizing policies that lift Americans out of poverty and promote self-sufficiency. Improving the federal funding formula ensures that states like Wisconsin, who took a responsible/conservative approach to funding Medicaid, are not unfairly treated, allowing BadgerCare to better serve the most vulnerable residents.

    “Recognizing that border security is national security, this bill fully funds the completion of President Trump’s border wall, increases the hiring of additional Border Patrol and ICE agents, and invests in large-scale deportation operations to remove illegal aliens and keep our communities safe.

    “By passing the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, we’re delivering on the promises made to the American people and putting President Trump’s America First agenda where it belongs—front and center.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Miller-Meeks Votes to Prevent Largest Tax Hike in American History

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks’ (IA-02)

    Washington, D.C. — The House of Representatives has officially passed President Trump’s One Big, Beautiful Bill—historic legislation to secure the border, slash taxes, defend working Americans, and restore integrity to our institutions.

    Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01), a 24-year Army veteran, physician, and former small business owner, issued the following statement:

    “Today, the House delivered a major victory for working Americans and the future of our country. By passing President Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill, we’re securing the border, removing illegal immigrants from Medicaid, and making the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act permanent—preventing the largest tax hike in American history,” said Dr. Miller-Meeks. “As a former small business owner and Army veteran, I know what’s at stake. This bill protects Iowa families, seniors, and small businesses while strengthening Medicaid for the vulnerable—not for those who can work and choose not to. I’m especially proud that my two bills to improve Medicaid integrity and expand access to pediatric care were included. Today’s vote is a win for Iowa and for every American who believes in work, responsibility, and a government that serves its people, not the other way around.”

    Key Wins in the One Big, Beautiful Bill:

    PREVENTS THE LARGEST TAX HIKE IN AMERICAN HISTORY:

    • Makes the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act permanent, preventing 106,800 Iowa families from a historic tax hike.
    • Stops a looming 20% tax hike on Iowa small businesses.
    • Ends federal taxes on tips and overtime pay.

    SECURES THE BORDER:

    • Finishes construction of the border fence.
    • Funds 10,000 new ICE agents and expands detention capacity.
    • Speeds up deportations of violent illegal aliens.

    PROTECTS MEDICAID FOR THOSE WHO NEED IT MOST:

    • Ends Medicaid for illegal immigrants and non-disabled adults who choose not to work.
    • Cracks down on billions in waste, fraud, and abuse.
    • Recommits Medicaid to children, pregnant women, seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities.

    Miller-Meeks Legislative Wins Included:

    The Medicaid Program Improvement Act:

    • Requires states to verify addresses & reduces enrollment errors.
    • Avoids duplicate and improper payments to insurance companies.
    • Ensures vulnerable Iowans don’t lose access to care.

    The Accelerating Kids’ Access to Care Act:

    • Streamlines approval for out-of-state pediatric specialists.
    • Speeds up treatment for children on Medicaid and CHIP.
    • Eliminates barriers that delay lifesaving care.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New investment in regeneration boosts growth and jobs in Port Talbot

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    New investment in regeneration boosts growth and jobs in Port Talbot

    More than £20 million in funding announced from the Tata Steel / Port Talbot Transition Board

    More than £20 million announced for regeneration projects in the Port Talbot area.

    • More than £20 million in funding from the Tata Steel / Port Talbot Transition Board for three local regeneration schemes.
    • This major investment will support more than 270 jobs in steel community.
    • Tata Steel / Port Talbot Transition Board has announced more than £70m funding in past nine months.

    A new investment of £21.2 million for regeneration projects will support more than 270 jobs and see the creation of additional construction jobs in the Port Talbot area following the planned announcement today (22 May) of the latest release of funding from the Tata Steel /Port Talbot Transition Board. 

    Pending endorsement by the Transition Board when it meets today, funding of £21.2 million will be allocated for three more regeneration projects in the Port Talbot area, which will bring an estimated £119 million in GVA benefits to the local economy. 

    The three projects are:

    Creation of an Advanced Manufacturing Production Facility (AMPF) and National Net Zero Skills Centre of Excellence Harbourside, Port Talbot

    • £12.5 million to help create a £35 million production and training centre to drive forward low carbon and net zero skills training. The AMPF will make specialist equipment and test products, upscaling advanced manufacturing in the region and is also receiving funding from the Swansea Bay City Deal. 

    • AMPF is one of three projects contributing to the establishment of an Innovation District in the Harbourside which will also include the previously announced South Wales Industrial Transition from Carbon Hub (SWITCH) project and the development of an Innovation Park.

    • AMPF, with the National Net Zero Centre of Excellence, will support 170 jobs and engage with 150 companies to generate a Gross Value Added (GVA) of £89.1 million. There will also be additional construction jobs created by this project.

    • The National Net Zero Skills Centre of Excellence will provide the facilities and capabilities to train and develop the workforce needed for the Celtic Freeport, Floating Offshore Wind (FLOW) and other investment opportunities in the future.

    Redevelopment of Metal Box and Sandfields Business Centre (Briton Ferry and Port Talbot)

    • These two projects will convert and expand two existing buildings to provide high quality accommodation to enable tenants to expand and improve access to new business units, encouraging and supporting start-up businesses and those seeking to grow. There is significant demand for business space in Neath Port Talbot which this funding will help address. 

    • A total of £8.7m in Transition Board funding will fully fund the projects, £6.9 million for Metal Box and £1.8 million for Sandfields Business Centre.

    • Together, it is estimated that the redevelopments will support 101 jobs and create a net additional GVA of £29.9m by 2035.

    The £21.2 million investment announced today is the latest from the Tata Steel / Port Talbot Transition Board, chaired by Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens and including representatives from the UK and Welsh Governments, local authorities, unions and business.

    Since its first release of funding in August 2024, it has announced more than £70 million to fund skills training for workers and regeneration projects as Tata Steel carries out its transition to electric arc steelmaking.

    Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens said:  

    We said we would back the steelworkers of Port Talbot, their families and businesses dependent on Tata Steel. 

    This latest investment means more than £70 million has been announced by the Transition Board in just nine months, delivering on our promise to the community.

    The plans for the Celtic Freeport, development of floating offshore wind, preservation of steelmaking in the town and significant funding for regeneration all mean there is a bright future for Port Talbot.

    Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning Rebecca Evans MS said:

    We remain committed to ensuring those who have been impacted by the Tata transition, including the workforce, supply chain and local community are supported not only in the short term but well into the future. 

    I am pleased this latest investment of Tata Transition funding will complement City Deal funding and unlock valuable job opportunities, particularly those linked to renewable energy and high value manufacturing.

    Neath Port Talbot Council Leader, Cllr Steve Hunt said:

    As we work closely together in meeting the challenges of decarbonisation, it is vital that we also support local people and businesses to maximise the opportunities it offers. 

    The investment announced today will provide a significant boost to our ongoing work with partners to promote economic growth and to provide people with the skills needed for the industries of the future.

    In the coming months, there will be millions more in funding allocated to growth and regeneration projects in Port Talbot, ensuring that secure well-paid jobs are available in the local area following Tata Steel’s Transition to greener steelmaking.    

    The UK Government has committed £2.5 billion of investment to rebuild the UK’s steel industry for decades to come as it decarbonises.

    This is in addition to the £500 million allocated to Tata Steel in Port Talbot for an electric arc furnace, which recently received planning approval.

    ENDS

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Lord Mayor appointed for Stoke-on-Trent

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Thursday, 22nd May 2025

    The new Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent has officially been appointed.

    Councillor Steve Watkins was selected as the city’s latest Lord Mayor during Stoke-on-Trent City Council’s annual council meeting this morning.

    Councillor Watkins was first elected as a Labour councillor for Abbey Hulton in May 2023. His appointment comes during a milestone year for the city, as Stoke-on-Trent celebrates 100 years since being granted city status.

    Before being elected as a councillor, he worked for 25 years at Royal Doulton and served six years in the military as part of B Company Second Mercian Regiment, which he joined as a reservist in 1982.

    Now semi-retired, Councillor Watkins has lived in Stockton Brook for nearly 40 years with his wife – fellow Stoke-on-Trent City Councillor – Lynn Watkins. The couple have two sons and a granddaughter, and Lynn will serve as Lady Mayoress

    Councillor Steve Watkins said: “I am delighted to be named First Citizen of this great city, and it means even more to take on the role in our Centenary year.

    I’m especially lucky to have my wife by my side who will be making sure I get up, dress up and show up on time.

    “Over the next 12 months I will be helping to promote and support our city during our Centenary year and I am looking forward to attending as many events as possible. I would also like to promote the skills and talents of our businesses and neighbourhoods who make up our diverse and inclusive city.”

    During his year of office, Councillor Watkins will raise money for his three chosen charities: Help for Heroes, the National Literacy Trust (Stoke-on-Trent) and Saltbox Carelink.

    Councillor Joan Bell, who represents the Sandford Hill ward has been appointed Deputy Lord Mayor for the year ahead. Her consort will be her husband Dennis Bell.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: “Meaningful inclusion of women is not optional, it is essential”: Member States reinforce support for women in peacekeeping at Ministerial

    Source: United Nations – Peacekeeping

    Written by Sophie Boudre and Lesley Myers.

    Ms. Boudre is Deputy Chief, UN Peacekeeping’s Strategic Communications Section, and expert on gender and accountability issues.
    Ms. Myers is the Digital Editor for UN Peacekeeping’s Strategic Communications Section and expert in strategic planning and peacekeeping impact.

    “Inclusive missions are not only fair–but also smarter and more legitimate”, said Ms. Roselinda Soipan Tuya, Cabinet Secretary for Defence of Kenya, at last week’s Peacekeeping Ministerial in Berlin. More than 130 Member States gathered to discuss the future of peacekeeping, including how to create environments where both men and women are empowered to serve together.  

    Despite progress, women remain underrepresented and face barriers to full participation. This is not only a matter of equality—it also affects effectiveness. Studies123 find that peacekeeping missions are more successful when women are meaningfully represented among military, police, and civilian staff, including at the senior leadership level.  

    During the Ministerial, UN Member States committed to enhancing women’s participation at all levels by fostering an environment where they can thrive. “We need to look at how to make this work in our context,” said Ms. Tuya. “We cannot continue to leave out women… it is like going into a football match without half of the team.”

    Inclusive teams make peacekeeping more effective 

    In the peacekeeping mission in Abyei (UNISFA), an area nestled between Sudan and South Sudan, women peacekeepers were instrumental in building trust with community leaders and women’s groups. This engagement enabled access to new information, which helped UNISFA detect early warnings of attacks and prevent violence.  

    In the peacekeeping mission in Lebanon (UNIFIL) a military unit from Ghana was deployed that is comprised of 20% women. The unit reports a significant increase of trust in UNIFIL and its forces in the communities where they have patrolled, as well as an increase willingness of women to interact with the mission.  

    Women are often uniquely able to build rapport with community members, granting access to critical security information, such as areas at risk for conflict-related sexual violence, helping us better protect the populations we serve.  

    Visible participation by women in UN peace operations also helps dismantle barriers that prevent local women from engaging in peace and political processes. Women peacekeepers serve as role models, inspiring women and girls to pursue non-traditional paths, in turn acting as catalysts for inclusive societies where women are represented and active at every level. 

    Many steps forward, and more to go 

    Women peacekeepers in civilian, military, and police roles have been rising steadily over the last several years. The share of women in military roles has doubled since 2018, for example, but still sits at just 10%.  

    Persistent barriers continue to limit women’s access to peacekeeping roles—especially in military and leadership positions. Equipment such as flak jackets and helmets are often not designed for women, compromising safety. Inadequate sanitation facilities can prevent women participating in long-range patrols.  

    Creating an inclusive environment—where all personnel, regardless of gender or background, feel empowered and respected—is critical for advancing peace effectively. 

    The UN and Member States are working to address remaining barriers by deploying more women peacekeepers and fostering a work culture that enables them to serve effectively and meaningfully. Recruitment pipelines are being established to increase the pool of women available for deployment, including in leadership roles. Facilities, accommodations, health services, and equipment are being improved to support the needs of all personnel and increased efforts are being made to protect them from sexual harassment.  

    Gen. Mohan Subramanian, Force Commander of the peacekeeping mission in South Sudan, underscored the important role mission leaders play in advancing these objectives: “The most important thing to support uniformed women is to ensure leaders [have] the right mindset,” he said.

    Redoubling efforts

    During the Ministerial, Member States made key commitments to continue progress, particularly in military roles.  These included providing gender-sensitive equipment, deploying mixed-gender platoons trained to engage with host communities, and funding “barrier assessments” to identify and address challenges uniformed women face in countries that deploy peacekeepers to UN missions.“An enabling environment begins at home: participation of uniformed women at all levels and all roles at Member State level. All Member States must advance this at a national level,” underscored Brigadier General Jürgen Schrödl, Head of Sub-division III, Directorate-General for Military Strategy and Operations for Germany’s Ministry of Defence.  

    These initiatives aim to remove obstacles preventing women from joining peacekeeping operations and serve to their full potential. With global conflicts at their highest since 1945 and peacekeeping budgets declining, we cannot afford to overlook any measure that enhances our effectiveness. Supporting women’s participation is critical to the success of our mandates. “Meaningful inclusion of women is not optional, it is essential” stressed Monica Bolaños Pérez, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Guatemala. “It is a matter of operational effectiveness.”

    Background: What is the Women, Peace and Security Agenda?  

    Adopted in October 2000, the landmark Security Council resolution 1325 on Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) recognizes the vital role of women in peace and security. It calls for increased participation of women at all decision-making levels, protection of women and girls from gender-based violence, and the integration of gender perspectives in peacekeeping and conflict resolution efforts. 

    Since its adoption, UN Peacekeeping has been advancing on integrating gender perspectives and advancing the implementation of the 1325 Agenda including in the current scope of seven peacekeeping missions. 

    In 2018, the UN introduced the Uniformed Gender Parity Strategy as a key step towards meeting WPS goals in UN peacekeeping. It aims to increase the meaningful participation of women in military, police and justice and corrections roles across all missions by addressing barriers, setting concrete targets, and fostering inclusive environments.  

    This year marks the 25th anniversary of the adoption of the resolution.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • “They have to be held accountable for terror attacks against India”: MEA exposes Pakistan

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India on Thursday reiterated its resolve to fight terrorism and called on the world to hold Pakistan accountable for the terror attacks that they have carried out against India.

    In the weekly media briefing, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal reminded the world about the need to “come together to fight terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

    Replying to a query on the multi-party delegation, Randhir Jaiswal said, “There are seven delegations. Three delegations have departed…This is a political mission. We want to make a stronger outreach to the world to convey our resolve to fight terrorism. We want the world to come together to fight terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. We want to exhort the world to hold those responsible for cross-border terrorism accountable. Those have been practising it for the last 40 years against India, that is, Pakistan. Their actions need to be called out. They have to be held accountable for the terror attacks that they have carried out against India…”

    “So, that is the larger message. The unity of India, the purpose of India,” the MEA Spokesperson said.

    India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7 as a decisive military response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 people were killed. Indian Armed Forces targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, leading to the death of over 100 terrorists affiliated with terror outfits like the Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba and Hizbul Mujahideen.

    After the attack, Pakistan retaliated with cross-border shelling across the Line of Control and Jammu and Kashmir as well as attempted drone attacks along the border regions, following which India launched a coordinated attack and damaged radar infrastructure, communication centres and airfields across 11 airbases in Pakistan.

    After this, on May 10, an understanding of the cessation of hostilities between India and Pakistan was announced.

    An All-Party Parliamentary Delegation, led by Sanjay Kumar Jha, includes Ambassador Mohan Kumar, BJP MP Hemang Joshi, CPI(M) MP John Brittas, TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee, BJP MP Aparajita Sarangi, BJP MP Brij Lal, and BJP MP Pradan Baruah, reached Tokyo today.

    The delegation aims to brief international partners on India’s response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack and its broader fight against cross-border terrorism while engaging with leaders in Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, South Korea, and Singapore.

    (ANI)

  • MIL-OSI USA: Newhouse Votes to Restore Fiscal Sanity in the Federal Government

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Dan Newhouse (4th District of Washington)

    Headline: Newhouse Votes to Restore Fiscal Sanity in the Federal Government

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (WA-04) released the following statement upon passage of H.R. 1, the One, Big, Beautiful Bill Act. 

    “House Republicans have delivered on our commitment to permanently extend tax cuts for the middle class and small businesses while eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse within the federal government.  

    One of my top priorities throughout this process has been maintaining investments in nuclear energy to keep energy prices low throughout our region. Central Washington is home to a rich nuclear history, and I am proud to have led the fight to ensure our tax code allows for continued investments in our nuclear fleet, including the small modular reactor project in the Tri-Cities. 

    We have made real, common-sense reforms to strengthen the integrity of Medicaid, protecting the program for low-income families, seniors, and those with disabilities. By implementing work requirements for able bodied adults without dependents, and preventing those here illegally from accessing the program, we are protecting Medicaid for those who truly need it most. 

    As a Member of the House Agriculture Committee, I’m proud to support meaningful reforms to SNAP while investing in the farm safety net to deliver much needed assistance to rural America. This package more than doubles our trade promotion programs to allow Washington state agriculture exports to reach new markets around the globe.   

    This legislation supports families and businesses across Central Washington by delivering over $1.5 trillion in deficit reduction to get our fiscal house in order. There is still work to be done, and as this legislation moves to the Senate, I will continue to advocate for the people of Washington’s Fourth District, protect essential services for those who truly need them, and keep taxes low for the middle class and small businesses in our region.” 

    Background:  

    House Republicans passed a budget resolution in April with instructions for committees to produce legislation that provides tax relief for working families and small businesses, reins in reckless federal spending, unleashes energy dominance, and makes America safe again.

    The One Big Beautiful Bill Act delivers on those priorities in a fiscally responsible manner, with the final net deficit reduction number above $1.5 trillion, marking the largest deficit reduction in nearly 30 years. These savings will begin immediately, with $111.8 billion in net deficit reduction in the first year after enactment. The legislation: 

    Delivers an economy that is pro-growth, pro-worker, pro-family, and pro-business: 

    • Makes the 2017 tax cuts permanent, preventing the average taxpayer from seeing a 22% tax hike.
    • Removes taxes on tips, overtime pay, car loan interest, and provides additional tax relief for seniors.
    • Supports small businesses and Made-in-America investments through immediate 100 percent expensing, incentives for new manufacturing facilities, research and development immediate amortization, and interest expense deductions.

    Provides over $140 billion – the largest border security investment in history – to secure our borders and keep Americans safe: 

    • Allows for the completion of 701 miles of primary wall and construction of 900 miles of river barriers.
    • Funds at least one million annual removals, 10,000 new Immigration and Customs Enforcement personnel, and detention capacity sufficient to maintain an average daily population of at least 100,000 aliens.
    • Supports the hiring and training of 3,000 new Border Patrol agents, 5,000 new Office of Field Operations customs officers, and other urgently needed personnel.

    Restores integrity to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by requiring states to shoulder a share of the benefit costs, preventing states from manipulating SNAP eligibility and benefit calculations, and restoring SNAP work requirements for able-bodied adults without young dependents.

    Strengthens Medicaid for Americans who truly need it, while rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse: 

    • Establishes commonsense work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents and stops new money laundering gimmicks like provider taxes and State Directed Payments.
    • Strengthens program integrity measures that protect Medicaid resources for the most vulnerable.
    • Closes loopholes that let illegal immigrants enroll in Medicaid and reduces funding to states that prioritize Medicaid coverage of illegal immigrants. 

    Unleashes American energy dominance, ensuring affordable energy for families and creating jobs across the country: 

    • Allows advanced nuclear facilities to utilize the Production Tax Credit (45Y) and Investment Tax Credit (48E) while phasing out the credits for wind and solar and maintains the Nuclear Production Tax Credit (45U) through 2028.
    • Reinstates quarterly onshore oil and gas lease sales and mandates at least 30 lease sales in the Gulf of America over the next 15 years and six in the Cook Inlet in south-central Alaska.
    • Resumes leasing for energy production in the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska and the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and coal leasing on federal lands.
    • Streamlines the permitting process for energy infrastructure.

    Makes major reforms to streamline student loan options, support student success, and save taxpayer money.

    Invests nearly $144 billion to modernize our military and strengthen national defense. 

    ###  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Vaccines: why these young Africans are hesitant about them and what might change their minds

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Oluwaseyi Dolapo Somefun, Research associate, University of the Western Cape

    Vaccines have proved to be one of the most effective tools in fighting infectious diseases, but convincing people to get vaccinated can be tough. Especially young people.

    During the global COVID-19 pandemic, declared by the World Health Organization on 11 March 2020, many countries reported high levels of vaccine hesitancy among younger population groups. Negative healthcare experiences and general distrust of government have cultivated vaccine hesitancy across Africa. Misleading information about vaccine side-effects on social media adds to this challenge.

    This hesitancy continues today. A 2024 study on adolescents and young adults (aged 10 to 35) in sub-Saharan Africa found a vaccine acceptance rate of just 38.7%.

    These concerns were echoed in a recent study we carried out among 165 young adults in Nigeria, South Africa and Zambia, looking at attitudes towards the COVID-19 vaccine. We wanted to know what could be done to help improve future vaccine acceptance, inform campaigns and prepare for future public health responses.

    Participants were hesitant to be vaccinated, for various reasons, and suggested what policymakers could do to improve vaccine uptake.

    Understanding young people’s perspectives on vaccine hesitancy and what can be done to address this is crucial for improving vaccine acceptance in the future.

    What young adults told us

    Our research gathered data through focus groups and interviews.

    The participants described a fear of injections, uncertainty about side effects, distrust in healthcare systems and rude healthcare workers.

    Some participants were worried about the safety of the COVID-19 vaccine, particularly how it might affect those with pre-existing health conditions.

    Many believed that the vaccine was developed too quickly without sufficient testing and a lack of accessible information.

    Many expressed a strong fear of needles. A young South African woman aged 19 commented:

    I am afraid of injections, so for me, it would be better if there was something that could be taken orally, something you can drink.

    Getting over the hurdle

    We found young people often felt left out of vaccine conversations. They wanted to be part of the solution and make informed choices but needed the right tools and support to do so.

    Participants suggested practical ideas to help boost vaccine acceptance among their peers.

    Several highlighted the importance of assessing individual health status before administering vaccines, to avoid adverse interactions with existing medical conditions and treatments. They believed that situations where vaccines were mistakenly blamed for pre-existing illnesses or ongoing treatments could be avoided.

    Participants suggested innovative strategies to make vaccines more accessibile. Mobile vaccination sites and community-based outreach programmes were some of the suggestions.

    They must introduce mobile clinics, so that people don’t find themselves having to travel long distances to vaccinate. – 18-year-old male, South Africa

    Young people also suggested household visits to people who were immobile because of age, illness or disability.

    Many advocated for non-injectable vaccine options, such as oral medications or microneedle patches, which could improve accessibility and reduce anxiety.

    The oral polio vaccine, which has been widely used in global polio eradication efforts, is an example of a non-injectable vaccine.

    COVID-19 microneedle patch prototypes are being explored for clinical testing.

    The youth urged public figures, including politicians, celebrities and influencers, to publicly endorse the vaccine.

    It would be nice if the president could be shown on television receiving a vaccine so that we can see for ourselves whether he is given the same thing that everyone else receives. – 20-year-old male, South Africa

    More engaging videos, interactive interviews and testimonials from vaccinated individuals could be shared across social media platforms.

    The young people also emphasised the importance of comprehensive training for healthcare providers. They highlighted the need for healthcare professionals to provide respectful and empathetic care. They suggested that, by fostering respectful communication, healthcare providers could create a more welcoming and comfortable environment for their clients.

    In addition, providing vaccine education in schools could educate pupils so that they could make decisions on their own.

    Way forward

    Engaging young people as active participants in shaping public health strategies can help increase vaccine acceptance and ensure a healthier future for all.

    We believe that our findings can be applied in two ways.

    First, to inform the design of tailored interventions that better resonate with young people’s desires and needs, paving the way for increased vaccine uptake and acceptability.

    Second, to highlight areas where young people may need further information and engagement, to better understand some of the broader issues and why some of their recommendations might not be feasible in the short or longer term.

    – Vaccines: why these young Africans are hesitant about them and what might change their minds
    – https://theconversation.com/vaccines-why-these-young-africans-are-hesitant-about-them-and-what-might-change-their-minds-249629

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • “India and UAE Will Tackle Terrorism Together”: All-Party Delegation conveys message of zero tolerance in Abu Dhabi

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A high-level Indian all-party parliamentary delegation, led by Shiv Sena MP Dr. Shrikant Eknath Shinde, arrived in Abu Dhabi today, marking the first leg of a four-nation diplomatic mission aimed at rallying international support against terrorism. The visit comes in the wake of the recent Pahalgam terror attack and forms part of ‘Operation Sindoor’, India’s strategic response to cross-border terrorism.

    During their visit, the delegation held a series of high-level meetings with UAE leadership and media officials to underscore India’s firm zero-tolerance stance on terrorism. The UAE had earlier emerged among the first countries to strongly condemn the Pahalgam attack, with President Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan personally extending condolences to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar via phone.

    Speaking on the visit, Dr. Shinde said, “The message we brought from India the voice of 1.4 billion Indians, was well received. This alliance is not just strategic, but deeply emotional, rooted in shared values and experiences. Both India and the UAE have suffered from terrorism. Our message to the world is clear , there must be no compromise on terrorism. We must unite globally and act as one.This mission goes beyond trade and diplomacy; it represents a shared commitment to peace and security. Both the UAE and India have suffered the devastating effects of terrorism, and both nations have adopted a firm stance of zero tolerance.

    Our Prime Minister’s message to the world is clear – there can be no compromise when it comes to terrorism. India has been a long-time victim of cross-border terrorism, especially from organisations operating out of Pakistan. As we travel globally, we are sharing these critical concerns.

    In Abu Dhabi, the group met with His Highness Sheikh Nahyan Mabarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, who reiterated the UAE’s solidarity with India, stating, “India and UAE will tackle terrorism together. The UAE will always stand by India.” The delegation highlighted Pakistan’s continued role in perpetrating cross-border terrorism and its attempts to destabilize India through sectarian disinformation.

    The team also held in-depth discussions with Dr. Ali Rashid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Defence, Interior & Foreign Affairs Committee of the Federal National Council, alongside other senior Emirati lawmakers. Stressing the precision and restraint of Operation Sindoor, the Indian side presented it as a calibrated, non-escalatory response to a barbaric attack on civilians in Kashmir. Dr. Nuaimi acknowledged the broader strategic nature of India-UAE ties, commenting, “The relationship goes beyond trade and culture and includes vital security cooperation. Terrorism is an assault on humanity, and the international community must act now.”

    Concerns over disinformation campaigns originating from Pakistan were raised in meetings with Dr. Jamal Al Kaabi, Director General of the UAE’s National Media Office. The Indian delegation shared factual documentation to counter Pakistan’s propaganda and highlighted the need for responsible media to combat extremist narratives.

    Dr. Shinde, in an interview with The National, UAE’s leading English-language daily, outlined India’s decades-long struggle with cross-border terrorism. He emphasized how Operation Sindoor marks a shift in India’s security posture and international messaging.

    In the evening, the delegation engaged with members of the Indian community in the UAE, commending their contributions and their role in promoting tolerance and pluralism. The delegation reaffirmed India’s commitment to its diaspora and their continued role in strengthening bilateral ties.

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £530 million investment prospectus launched

    Source: Scotland – City of Perth

    Presented to a high-profile audience of government representatives, private investors, developers, and funding bodies, the prospectus outlines eight transformative projects that collectively support Perth & Kinross’s ambitions to lead in sustainability and clean economic growth.

    Spanning a 15-year period from 2025 to 2040, the portfolio covers market-ready opportunities, and longer-term investor-led partnerships in energy and net zero, the circular economy, food and drink, light industrial, travel and logistics, leisure and retail, accommodation in tourism and residential. 

    Featured investments include:

    • Eco Innovation Park at Perth West
    • Perth City Heat Network
    • Strategic Energy Partnership
    • Advanced Plastics Sorting and Upcycling Facility
    • Binn Eco Park
    • Northfield Business Park
    • Cultural Quarter (Perth City Centre) Regeneration Project
    • Mill Quarter (Perth City Centre) Regeneration Project

    Perth & Kinross Council Leader Councillor Grant Laing said: “Over the past six years, Perth and Kinross has demonstrated its commitment to building a modern, resilient, and inclusive economy through an impressive £600 million public investment programme. This has supported essential infrastructure, cultural development, and growth in key economic sectors.

    “Now, the Investment Prospectus sets out a clear intention to build on these strong foundations, by providing an exciting platform for investor and developer-led partnerships, both domestically and internationally.

    “I believe the diversity and ambition of the projects on offer present a compelling case for doing business in Perth and Kinross. Alongside transformative, clean growth opportunities directly impacting our net zero ambitions, there are also traditional, property-based propositions designed to encourage and support existing business relocation into the area.”

    The £530 million proposition complements the Council’s existing £600 million+ investment in infrastructure, key sectors, and the arts, creating a powerful springboard for future growth.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Southwest Octopus Bloom

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Southwest Octopus Bloom

    Marine Management Organisation (MMO) is aware of an octopus bloom which is occurring in the southwest, most prominently in ICES division 7.e.

    Concerns have been raised by industry members regarding the impacts being observed in shellfish fisheries and effects on stocks in the surrounding areas.

    MMO recently met with fisheries managers and scientists to discuss the bloom and the issues and opportunities it may bring and consider potential actions required.

    Octopus is included in the Channel Demersal Non-Quota Species Fisheries Management Plan, due to their increasing abundance in the South West English Channel. Short term measures for Octopus are to monitor catches and designing a research plan for gathering data and considering management of the fishery. MMO have been collating landings information, and research into the viability of a UK Octopus fishery is being developed. To improve the evidence base MMO have produced species ID cards for Common, Horned and Curled octopus, to support better reporting of landings, these ID cards are available upon request at local MMO offices.

    MMO will soon look to reconvene with industry representatives and further discuss the issues and provide updates on the work being undertaken to understand the fishery and its impacts across stocks.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Deputy Secretary-General’s remarks at the presentation of the report on the Development Coordination Office at the ECOSOC Segment on Operational Activities for Development [as delivered]

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    Thank you very much your Excellency – the Vice-President of ECOSOC – Excellencies, colleagues,

    We come together today following a hallmark year for the Resident Coordinator system and entities across the UN Sustainable Development Group.

    As we heard from the Secretary-General yesterday in the presentation of his report, this year has pressed the development system – and we know the year ahead will be ever more testing.

    Six years into the repositioning, we have a resident coordinator system that is delivering for those we serve. And we know that this support is needed now more than ever.

    And that the UN system needs to come together in a coordinated, cohesive manner to provide this support.

    Around the world, people are confronting a convergence of crises. Entrenched conflict, economic instability, persistent poverty and inequalities, constrained multilateralism and declining support for development funding and financing.

    This is precisely the moment in which we must recommit to accelerated action that delivers the Sustainable Development Goals for people and planet – as guided by the roadmap that the 2024 QCPR has set.

    The UN development system, with the leadership of Resident Coordinators, is redoubling its efforts to align with Member States’ expectations, while finding ways to do so more effectively.

    I am grateful for the leadership that Member States have shown in continuing to guide our work.  

    Excellencies,

    My annual report tells the story of a UN development system constantly in motion — resilient, adaptive, ambitious— and firmly anchored in country needs.

    UN teams are delivering – in countries beset by crisis or in communities facing down persistent poverty and inequalities.

    In 2024, 98 per cent of host governments reported that the UN’s activities, as articulated in the Cooperation Frameworks, were closely aligned with national priorities.

    93 per cent of host Governments indicated that RCs and UNCTs provided support for changes in national policies and regulatory frameworks to advance all the SDGs.  A 7 per cent increase over the previous year.

    90 per cent of contributing countries agree that the RC system has scaled up collective action for the SDGs.

    And 84 per cent agree that the RC system helped improve coherence in UN activities and in reducing the duplication of efforts. 

    These are more than numbers. They represent a shift in how we work together as a UN system.

    And the RC system is the engine of this accelerated support to countries.

    First, Resident Coordinators are leveraging national and global processes to boost systems transformation for SDG acceleration.

    Cooperation Frameworks increasingly embed integrated approaches on the priorities agreed with Governments. They are maximizing interventions across multiple SDGs to amplify the impact and ground international commitments in countries.

    RCs and UN country teams spearheaded over 100 national initiatives with Governments to leverage the Summit of the Future to accelerate SDG implementation.

    Second, from civil society to financial institutions, Resident Coordinators are convening the partnerships that scale impact and sustain results.

    Notably, collaboration with international financial institutions is growing — with 73 per cent of UN country teams reporting active engagement with IFIs.

    90 per cent of host governments reported that Resident Coordinators have helped to leverage partnerships to support national SDG efforts.

    Third, Resident Coordinators play a key role in channeling global and country-level sources of funding that incentivize joint work and unlocking financing for SDG solutions.

    The Joint SDG Fund has been the main muscle behind the Resident Coordinators’ efforts to foster joint, transformative and coherent programming. 

    In 2024, the Fund supported RCs and UN teams to initiate 136 new joint programmes across 90 countries in transformative areas such as food systems, energy, digitalization, jobs, and social protection. Cumulatively, the fund has reached over 206 million people and catalyzed $1.6 billion in investments.

    Fourth, the Resident Coordinator system is guiding the UN country teams to deliver development results and enable the realization of efficiencies.  

    Resident Coordinators track implementation of Business Operations Strategy, negotiate arrangements for common premises, facilitate common back offices, and promote the shift towards global service centers.

    Fifth, the Resident Coordinator system is fostering increased accountability and transparency for results.

    They are spearheading efforts to strengthen the accountability to member states including by providing comprehensive Results Reports and improve use of digital platforms for sharing information on the work of UN country teams.

    Excellencies,

    Some of you may be familiar with this positive legacy of the repositioning, however, there are some notable shifts in the past year.

    Member States responded to the Secretary-General’s proposal to provide more funding for the Resident Coordinator system from the regular budget. While the increase of $53m from the regular budget provides a thin but essential cushion of funding –it still falls far short of providing and adequate and sustainable base.

    We still count on Member States to provide voluntary contributions. We rely the UNSDG to pay their portion of the cost-sharing. And we look to both to dutifully pay the levy.

    We are preparing a comprehensive review of the resident coordinator system as requested by the General Assembly for the 81st Session, informed by robust data and analysis. This recalibration exercise will ensure the RC system is optimally capacitated and structured.

    In 2024, because of lack of funding, only 33% of RCO were fully staffed.

    The intake of candidates for the RC/HC talent pipeline had to be paused, with implications on the diversity of expertise available in the future.

    The Resident Coordinator system still remains our most efficient investment to support the sustainable development of countries at scale. Resolving the long term shortfall – which was nearly $80m in 2024 – must be resolved to enable it to fully deliver on the mandates that you have given.  

    There are other lingering challenges which we must overcome.

    The early findings of the system-wide evaluation on country configuration and derivation are stark. As you will hear from the Executive Director of the UNSDG System-Wide Evaluation Office tomorrow, the need for action will be clear.

    Dialogues on UN teams’ configuration have yet to transform country-level presence or expertise, and entities’ programming instruments are still not fully derived from the Cooperation Framework.

    Over the course of this year and next, we will work with Member States and UN Sustainable Development Group Entities to right this ship.

    I count on your leadership, in this forum and in the governing bodies, to ensure that we are all pulling in the same direction, towards more tailored, cohesive, coordinated support. Ensuring that each entity plays to their comparative advantage.

    We are working to ensure that the tools and structures are optimally aligned with the needs of countries.

    The forthcoming reviews of the business models of UNSDG entities, the Management and Accountability Framework and the Cooperation Framework Guidance provide a critical window to ensure the UN system is aligned in structure and process – and guided by clear accountability lines, with much more efficient response.

    Excellencies,

    We are now entering a decisive window — the second half of the 2030 Agenda. And there is absolutely no time to lose.

    In the Pact for the Future, Member States recommitted to advancing the SDGs.

    Let us strengthen the system to enable us to deliver on this commitment.  
     
    And let us ensure that the UN development system receives the support it needs to deliver for the people it serves.

    Let us invest in the United Nations development system, as a matter of shared responsibility and a strategic necessity for a sustainable future that leaves no one behind.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pfluger Delivers Reimbursement Wins for Texas in the One Big Beautiful Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11)

    WASHINGTON, DC — Today, the House passed the One Big Beautiful Bill to advance President Trump’s America First Agenda. Among the many wins for the American people secured in this legislation, Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) fought to secure $12 billion in border reimbursements for states that stepped up, including Texas.

    “The devastating impact of the previous administration’s open border policies has been felt nationwide—but no state has carried the burden more than Texas. Texas spent $11.1 billion on border security, including $5.87 billion on personnel costs and $4.75 billion on border wall and barriers. When the federal government failed to secure our border and protect our communities, Texans stepped up. Throughout my time in Congress, I’ve fought tirelessly to get our state the reimbursements it’s owed, and now, that fight is finally paying off,” said Rep. Pfluger.

    Background:

    Texas had to take on a massive financial burden to protect our communities when the previous administration failed to do so. Throughout his time in Congress, Rep. Pfluger has fought to reimburse Texas for securing the southern border, including:

    ·     American Border Rescue Plan Act (2021)

    ·     This bill would allow state and local governments to use stimulus funds from the American Rescue Plan to cover the costs of border security.

    ·     Lone Star Reimbursement Act (2022)

    ·     This bill aimed to pay the State of Texas back for the costs of Operation Lone Star incurred in FY21 and FY22, which total $1.43 billion.

    ·     Co-led with Rep. Fallon

    ·     Letter to President Biden to reimburse Texas/meeting request (2023)

    ·     Pfluger-led letter signed by all Republican members of the Texas Delegation

    ·     FY24, FY25, and FY26 Appropriations Requests (2023, 2024, 2025) 

    ·     FY24: Led a letter to the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security to reimburse Texas for $5.1 billion.

    ·     FY25: Led a letter with 18 signers urging the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security to reimburse Texas $11.26 billion.

    ·     FY26: Led a letter with 19 signers urging the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security to reimburse Texas $11.2 billion.

    ·     Efforts to Reimburse Texas through Supplemental Funding Vehicle

    ·     Although the measure failed, Rep. Pfluger led the charge on including Texas reimbursement through supplemental funding packages in the spring of 2024.

    ·     Rep. Pfluger has also consigned H.R. 424 and H.R. 1222, and H.R. 3464 to reimburse Texas 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Pfluger Votes for the One Big Beautiful Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11)

    Rep. Pfluger Votes for the One Big Beautiful Bill

    Washington, May 22, 2025

    WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) released the following statement after voting to pass the One Big Beautiful Bill and advance President Trump’s America First Agenda:

    “I am proud that House Republicans united today to pass the One Big Beautiful Bill. In November, 77 million Americans demanded change, and today’s vote will go down in history as promises made, promises kept. This legislation reverses four years of failed Democrat policies – restoring American energy dominance, delivering vital support to our farmers and ranchers, securing historic tax cuts for hardworking families, reining in wasteful government spending, and making the strongest investment in border security in decades. It even includes $12 billion to reimburse the great state of Texas for costs it should never have had to bear during the previous administration’s border crisis. This legislation delivers all of that – and more – for every American, even those who opposed it.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James Advances Legislation to Protect Small Businesses and Consumers

    Source: US State of New York

    EW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James today joined supporters to rally for the passage of the Fostering Affordability and Integrity through Reasonable Business Practices, or FAIR Business Practices Act, a program bill from the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) and sponsored in the state legislature by Senator Leroy Comrie and Assemblymember Micah Lasher. This legislation will strengthen New York’s consumer protection law, GBL §349, to protect New Yorkers from predatory lending, abusive debt collection, junk fees, artificial intelligence (AI)-based schemes, online phishing scams, hard-to-cancel subscriptions, data breaches, and other unfair, deceptive, and abusive practices. Forty-two other states and federal law already prohibit unfair practices, making New York’s current law both antiquated and inadequate.

    “As the federal government steps back from protecting consumers and small businesses, New York must step up to help working families and Main Street businesses,” said Attorney General James. “The FAIR Business Practices Act will protect small businesses from predatory lenders, homeowners from bad mortgage servicers, patients from abusive debt collection, and much more. This legislation will strengthen New York’s consumer protection laws to stop businesses from taking advantage of New Yorkers. I look forward to working with my partners in the state legislature to get this legislation passed.”

    The FAIR Business Practices Act would also help stop lenders, including auto lenders, mortgage servicers, and student loan servicers, from deceptively steering people into higher-cost loans. It would reduce unnecessary and hidden fees, stop unfair billing practices by health care companies, and prevent companies from taking advantage of New Yorkers with limited English proficiency. With the federal government rolling back protections for consumers and small businesses, the FAIR Business Practices Act authorizes OAG and victims to seek civil penalties and restitution against businesses that use unfair, deceptive, or abusive practices against vulnerable New Yorkers.

    “New Yorkers deserve to be treated fairly, and this legislation helps ensure that,” said Senator Leroy Comrie. “The FAIR Business Practices Act gives our state stronger tools to hold bad actors accountable and protect everyday people from deceptive and abusive practices. I’m proud to sponsor this bill alongside Attorney General James and Assemblymember Lasher as we work to strengthen consumer protections and support small businesses across our state.” 

    “New York has one of the weakest consumer protection laws in the country. Donald Trump and Elon Musk are taking a hatchet to federal consumer protections, leaving New Yorkers even more vulnerable to abuse. The time to act is now,” said Assemblymember Micah Lasher. “Making sure that the Attorney General has the tools she needs to look out for New Yorkers is one of the best ways we can stop the damage Trump is trying to do. We must pass this bill this session to protect consumers from the high costs of unfair business practices. It is an honor to stand together in this fight with Attorney General James and Senator Comrie. Let’s get this done.”

    “We applaud Attorney General James for developing the FAIR Business Practices Act and we thank Assemblymember Lasher for introducing this bill,” said Mario Cilento, President of the New York State AFL-CIO. “The NYS AFL-CIO strongly supports modernizing the state’s consumer protection laws, particularly because of rollbacks at the federal level, but also to address technological, legal, and other developments that have made our current laws less effective. This bill, which will improve the rights and protections of workers who have been victims of various fraudulent and unfair practices, including unreasonable terms and conditions for payday loans or payroll check-cashing schemes, is a crucial step towards a fairer and more just society.” 

    “The FAIR Business Practices Act will protect working families from abusive business practices that are making it hard for people to get a car, keep a roof over their heads, and put food on the table,” said Henry Garrido, Executive Director of American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, DC37. “Right now the federal government is stepping away from enforcing consumer protection laws that protect everyday people. I applaud Attorney General James, Senator Comrie, and Assemblymember Lasher for advancing this legislation to protect working families, small businesses, seniors, and much more. Let’s pass the FAIR Business Practices Act by the end of this session.”

    “AARP New York thanks Attorney General James, Senator Comrie, and Assemblymember Lasher for their leadership on this legislation,” said Kristen McManus, Senior Associate State Director for Advocacy for AARP New York. “Scammers are targeting older adults more than ever, with the FBI reporting that New Yorkers 60 and older lost more than $254 million to fraud in 2024, a more than $50 million increase from the previous year. Now is the time for the Governor and legislature to step up for all New Yorkers by establishing a consumer protection law that will foil scammers and discourage con artists from targeting some of the most vulnerable among us.” 

    “Where New York was once a leader in protecting small businesses from bad loans, our neighboring states have all since passed laws to stop unfair, abusive, and deceptive behavior,” said Lindsey Vigoda, New York Director of Small Business Majority. “We cannot continue to fall behind on these common-sense protections, which is why New York must pass the FAIR Business Practices Act. This legislation would shield Main Street from abusive fees that all too often place enormous strain on small businesses. With predatory lending products more prevalent today than ever, it’s time for New York to step up once again and defend our most precious asset — our small business community.” 

    “In response to the Trump administration’s gutting of federal consumer protection agencies and financial regulators, states must step up to stop big businesses from ripping off working families,” said Winston Berkman-Breen, Legal Director at the Student Borrower Protection Center. “This is especially true in New York, where abusive student loan servicers and private student loan companies take advantage of our weak consumer protections and prey on low-income households and vulnerable communities seeking to achieve financial stability through higher education. We applaud Attorney General James, Senator Comrie, and Assemblymember Lasher for meeting this moment by introducing the FAIR Business Practices Act. The bill will finally catch New York up with the rest of the country by providing commonsense and timely consumer protections for households and small businesses.”

    “The FAIR Business Practices Act strengthens New York’s core consumer protection law to ensure it is up to date and serves as an effective deterrent against wrongdoing,” said Chuck Bell, Advocacy Programs Director for Consumer Reports. “At a time when federal consumer protection initiatives are under attack, New York is stepping up to ensure consumers and small businesses will have the protections they need and deserve against financial ripoffs, fraud, and scams in the marketplace.” 

    “Every New Yorker should be able to work and invest in a prosperous future without fearing predatory lenders pulling the carpet out from under them,” said Diana Caba, Vice President for Community and Economic Development, Hispanic Federation. “It is deeply concerning how few protections consumers have in New York and how those protections are becoming even more limited because of the weakening of regulatory bodies at a national level. The FAIR Business Practices Act shows that New York is prioritizing the financial well-being of New Yorkers and catching state regulations up with the 42 other states who recognize why states must protect people’s financial future.” 

    “New York’s bedrock consumer protection law is intended to protect New Yorkers from new and evolving scams across all economic activity, but in practice it has fallen short, leaving gaps where scam victims have no recourse to get their money back, while making it profitable to continue abusing people,” said Ariana Lindermayer, Senior Staff Attorney of Mobilization for Justice. “The FAIR Business Practices Act would close these gaps and catch New York up with the 42 states that already ban unfair business practices. Honest businesses and everyday New Yorkers will welcome real protection from predatory businesses and competitors.” 

    “The FAIR Business Practices Act should be uncontroversial,” said Matthew Parham, Director of Litigation and Advocacy at the Western New York Law Center in Buffalo. “The unfair and abusive practices that it addresses are already illegal. It just does what most states have done for decades: lets individual consumers and state regulators enforce these rights, instead of relying on the federal government. This is vitally important now, when the federal government is completely abdicating its responsibility to protect consumers from scams and ripoffs.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bice on the Passage of One Big Beautiful Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Stephanie Bice (OK-05)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Bice voted in favor of the One Big Beautiful Bill, legislation which helps unleash American energy, provides tax cuts to Oklahoman families and businesses, and helps President Trump fully secure our border, and safeguard our country. This legislation, which is being considered as part of reconciliation, now heads to the Senate for consideration.  

    Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement:  

    “The One Big Beautiful Bill is an opportunity to extend tax relief for Oklahomans, preventing them from facing a nearly $1200 tax hike next year. This legislation supports families, finishes President Trump’s border wall, and provides additional resources to further secure and safeguard our nation. While this process has been long, I appreciate all the thoughtful debate and will continue engaging with my colleagues as we move forward.” 

    The legislation will:  

    Keep the Border Secure- Make the largest investment in border security in a generation; finish the border wall; and give our border patrol agents and immigration enforcement agencies the resources they need to detain and deport illegal aliens.   

    Grow Our Economy & Cut Taxes- Prevent the largest tax increase in American history; eliminate taxes on tips and overtime; provide tax relief for seniors, job creators, small businesses, and farmers 

    Make Our Government More Efficient- Reduce the size and scope of government; root out waste, fraud, and abuse; bring bloated and inefficient programs back to their initial intent; and enact historic savings to put our nation on a sound fiscal trajectory  

    Restore America’s Energy Dominance- Empower American energy producers; dismantle burdensome Green New Deal regulations; reform the permitting process; and boost our energy security 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK secures future of vital Diego Garcia Military Base to protect national security

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    UK secures future of vital Diego Garcia Military Base to protect national security

    The long-term agreement secures future of joint UK-US military base at Diego Garcia.

    • Long-term agreement secures future of joint UK-US military base at Diego Garcia
    • Vital capabilities protected to counter growing global threats, keeping us secure at home and strong abroad
    • Deal is backed by strong support from the US and key international allies

    The UK has today (22 May) signed a landmark agreement with Mauritius to secure the future of the strategically critical UK-US military base on Diego Garcia, one of our most significant contributions to the transatlantic defence and security partnership.

    The base has played a vital role in defending the UK and its allies for over 50 years. This new deal ensures its continued operation for at least the next century, protecting capabilities essential to UK intelligence and counter-terrorism.

    The base plays a key role in operations that support UK forces and our allies across the Middle East, East Africa and South Asia.

    Its deep-water port, airfield, and advanced communications and surveillance capabilities give the UK and its allies crucial strategic capabilities, which have played a key role in missions to disrupt high-value terrorists, including Islamic State threats to the UK.

    The legal necessity of this deal has been recognised by successive governments. The previous government started these negotiations over two years ago, and they held 11 out of the 13 rounds of talks that underpin the deal, that this government has concluded.

    Crucially, all Five Eyes partners – the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand – back the agreement, along with India, recognising the critical role Diego Garcia plays in upholding global stability and deterring adversaries.

    The base is a cornerstone of the Government’s Plan for Change, with operations there deterring threats to our nation and protecting our economic security.

    Defence Secretary, John Healey MP said: 

    As the world becomes more dangerous, our military base on Diego Garcia becomes more important. Today’s Treaty secures full operational control, strengthens our UK-US defence partnership and keeps British people safe at home for the next 99 years and beyond. 

    Without this base, our ability to deter terrorists, defend our interests and protect our troops around the world would be at risk. This agreement will safeguard our national and economic security for generations to come. 

    Critically, the deal ensures the UK retains full operational control of Diego Garcia, including management of the electromagnetic spectrum satellite used for communications – vital for countering hostile interference.

    There will also be robust provisions to keep adversaries out, including:

    • A 24 nautical mile buffer zone where nothing can be built or placed without UK consent – meaning we can protect UK interests.

    • A rigorous process, including joint decision-making, to prevent any activities on the wider islands – some over 100 nautical miles away – from disrupting base operations. Joint decision-making means there can be no development unless we agree. 

    • A strict ban on foreign security forces on the outer islands, whether civilian or military.

    • A binding obligation to ensure the base is never undermined.

    Both countries have also agreed to a ban on the presence of foreign forces across the wider territory and a binding guarantee that base operations cannot be undermined.

    Without this deal, international legal proceedings could have rendered the base inoperable, affecting UK national security in the process with our adversaries being allowed to capitalise on this – building outposts near the base.

    Within a matter of weeks, with no deal, the UK could face legally-binding provisional measures through an Arbitral Tribunal under the Law of the Sea Convention – affecting the ability of the Armed Forces to patrol the waters around the base.

    Foreign Secretary David Lammy MP said: 

    This treaty secures the Diego Garcia military base for generations to come, protecting national and global security. 

    Without this deal, the land, sea and air operations of the base would become inoperable – doing nothing was not an option. 

    The US, Australia, Canada and India all back this deal because they understand its importance for global security. This government has always been clear that we will act in the national interest, not gamble with our national security like those who oppose this deal.

    It was clear that this agreement was the only route to securing the future of the base and preventing the UK’s adversaries from establishing a presence in the region.

    It is a clear demonstration of the UK’s commitment to act decisively in defence of its interests and ensure that the base continues to support operations that keep British citizens safe, now and in the decades to come.

    Notes to editors:

    • The cost per year is £101 million and the net present value of payments under the treaty is £3.4 billion. All costs have been verified by the Government Actuary’s Department. 
    • Further details will be laid out in Parliament.

    Diego Garcia Capabilities

    Diego Garcia is the largest island of the Chagos Archipelago, located in the central Indian Ocean. The joint UK-US military base on Diego Garcia has a strategic location which makes it vital to UK and US power projection in the Indian Ocean and beyond. The base provides a unique shared platform with irreplaceable security capabilities that enable a UK and US military presence across the Middle East, Indo-Pacific and Africa.

    Strategic and operational importance:

    • Diego Garcia’s strategic location allows it to support a wide array of operational activity in a number of theatres, helping to combat some of the most challenging threats, including terrorism, and hostile states.
    • Diego Garcia is the only UK base in the region with guaranteed freedom of use. It is central to current UK and US emergency planning and operations, just as it was with Afghanistan and Iraq.
    • The base offers the UK and its Allies unique and vital capabilities that help us understand and anticipate those who would do us harm. This includes capabilities which have been used to support counter terrorism operations against high value Islamic State targets. 
    • The base is a critical logistics hub at a strategic location, with a full range of facilities that acts as a key refuelling and resupply station for naval and air operations. This enables power projection and global reach, allowing for rapid and flexible deployment of our forces across the Middle East, East Africa and South Asia.
    • The base helps protect some of the most important shipping lanes in the world, while also remaining isolated enough to be protected from attack by adversaries.
    • The close collaboration between UK and US delivers shared real-world operational outcomes, in the Indo-Pacific, Africa, and the Middle East. The base has also hosted visits from Allies and partners such as Japan, France, Republic of Korea and Australia.

    Base capabilities

    • Airfield: Location and infrastructure accommodate a broad range of military aircraft, with capability to support military requirements from strike operations, as seen through the Afghanistan and Iraq campaigns, to humanitarian response.
    • Port: A multitude of berthing options for the UK and US navies to support various missions including Carrier Strike Group deployment. The UK maintains a Nuclear Emergency Response Organisation to permit nuclear powered submarines to safely berth at the port. The US uses Diego Garcia to strategically position equipment and supplies at sea for rapid deployment in various global theatres, including for humanitarian aid and disaster relief missions over the years, across the Indo-Pacific.
    • Seismic monitoring: Permanent location of three pieces of critical Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty monitoring equipment, a network constantly monitoring for indicators of nuclear testing, vital in preventing nuclear proliferation.
    • Space capabilities: Hosts one of the monitoring stations and one of the four ground antennas for the Global Positioning System (GPS). Also hosts part of the Ground-Base Electro-Optical Deep Space Surveillance (GEODSS) System. This provides situational awareness of objects in Earth’s orbit, helping to track space debris that pose a risk to space systems.

    Government Legal Position – Diego Garcia

    Mauritius’s legal claim of sovereignty over the island of Diego Garcia is supported by a number of international institutions, including the UN General Assembly.

    The International Court of Justice considered this issue in an Advisory Opinion delivered on 25 February 2019. An Advisory Opinion of the ICJ carries significant weight; in particular it is likely to be highly influential on any subsequent court/tribunal considering the issues arising out of disputed sovereignty, and whose judgment would be binding in international law. The ICJ concluded that “the United Kingdom is under an obligation to bring to an end its administration of the Chagos Archipelago as rapidly as possible”.

    The 2019 Advisory Opinion was followed in 2021 by a Special Chamber of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (in a case about delimitation of the boundary between Mauritius and The Maldives) which ruled that Mauritius’ sovereignty was inferred from the ICJ’s determinations.

    If a long-term deal is not reached between the UK and Mauritius, it is highly likely that further wide-ranging litigation would be brought quickly by Mauritius against the UK. This might, for example, include further arbitral proceedings against the UK under Annex VII of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (“UNCLOS”). A judgment from such a tribunal would be legally binding on the UK.

    The longstanding legal view of the United Kingdom is that the UK would not have a realistic prospect of successfully defending its legal position on sovereignty in such litigation. Even if the United Kingdom chose to ignore binding judgments made against it, their legal effect on third countries and international organisations would give rise to real impacts to the operation of the Base and the delivery of all its national security functions. International organisations have already adopted decisions based on Mauritian Sovereignty, and others would follow suit following such litigation.  

    These impacts could include: our ability to protect the electromagnetic spectrum from interference, to ensure access to the Base by air and by sea, effectively to patrol the maritime area around the Base, and to support the Base’s critical national security functions.

    Further, the UK would likely face a Provisional Measures Order within a matter of weeks of Mauritius commencing proceedings, which would also be legally binding. That would mean facing the sorts of detrimental impacts set out above, with the effect of substantially disrupting the operation of the military Base, in very short order.

    This deal is thus the only way to secure unfettered access to the Base for the long-term and to ensure its full contribution to national security.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Russian Air Defense Forces Repelled Ukrainian UAV Attacks on Moscow — Mayor

    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

    Moscow, May 22 (Xinhua) — The Russian Defense Ministry’s air defense forces repelled several attacks by Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) flying toward Moscow on Thursday, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin reported on his Telegram channel.

    “The Ministry of Defense’s air defense continues to repel attacks by enemy drones,” he wrote.

    According to the Moscow mayor, 10 attacks were carried out during the night and first half of the day on May 22 using 34 UAVs. All of them were destroyed. “Operational services are working at the sites of the debris fall,” added S. Sobyanin.

    To ensure the safety of civil aircraft flights, temporary restrictions were introduced on the operation of the capital’s air hub airports.

    The day before, on May 21, S. Sobyanin reported the destruction of 27 Ukrainian drones flying toward the capital.

    In total, according to the Russian Defense Ministry, Russian air defense forces shot down 485 UAVs over Russian regions from 20:00 on May 20 to 08:00 on May 22. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Funding supports new projects to promote recycling, prevent plastic waste

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    More businesses and organizations in B.C. will receive funding to foster innovation in plastic recycling and waste prevention while creating good, clean jobs for people throughout the province.

    In 2025, the B.C. government is providing more than $8 million through the CleanBC Plastics Action Fund to local businesses, foundations and First Nations to develop creative and effective ways to repair, reuse and recycle plastics into new products to reduce waste.

    “People in B.C. want to live in clean, healthy communities free from waste,” said Tamara Davidson, Minister of Environment and Parks. “These projects are finding new and creative ways to make this a reality, while bringing more jobs to communities and supporting local economies throughout the province.”

    The CleanBC Plastics Action Fund supports projects that prevent and reduce plastic waste in B.C. Launched in 2020, the fund has invested more than $35 million into projects that find creative solutions to help reduce plastic waste in communities. In 2025, B.C. is funding 34 new projects, with 63 projects receiving funding in previous years. The first two phases of the Plastics Action Fund created more than 240 direct long-term, full-time jobs, with more on the way in Phase 3.

    “The CleanBC Plastics Action Fund has helped us develop a high-capacity washing facility for reusable foodware, creating new ways to support cities in moving away from single-use packaging,” said Cody Irwin, founder and CEO of ShareWares. “We’ve also been able to serve major clients, such as festivals, stadiums and event venues — key anchors in the shift toward low-waste communities. This funding has empowered us to lead the transition to sustainable reuse programs across Metro Vancouver and beyond.”

    Of the projects funded in this round, 14 of 34 are Indigenous-led, with recipients from the Indigenous Projects category receiving more than $1.5 million. This brings the total funding for Indigenous Projects from the CleanBC Plastics Action Fund to more than $3.7 million across 31 projects.

    Projects receiving funding this year include expanding the use of reusable cups at large events, textile and medical-supply recycling, installation of industrial dishwashers in community spaces to reduce single-use dinnerware, zero-waste cleaning supplies, refill and zero-waste store expansions, and construction-waste sorting services, as well as other innovative and unique projects.

    The CleanBC Plastics Action Fund has been an important part of the Province’s goal to reduce plastic waste for a cleaner, healthier future. It builds on other initiatives within the CleanBC Plastics Action Plan, including efforts to reduce single-use plastics and expanding producer-funded recycling programs.

    Learn More:

    To learn more about the recipients, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/PAF_Recipients.pdf

    To learn more about CleanBC Plastics Action Plan, visit: https://cleanbc.gov.bc.ca/

    To learn more about the prevention of plastic waste, visit: https://gov.bc.ca/reuse

    For more information about the fund, visit: https://www.alacritycanada.com/plasticsactionfund/

    MIL OSI Canada News –