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Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed Condemns Secretary Hegseth’s Dysfunctional Management of the Pentagon

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed
    WASHINGTON, DC – Over the past 100 days, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth’s tenure at the Pentagon has been marked by sweeping ideological purges, scandals, and the unjustified firings of senior military leaders.
    On Thursday, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, spoke on the Senate floor to address Secretary Hegseth’s damaging misconduct and the long-term consequences for the U.S. military.
    A video of Senator Reed’s remarks may be viewed here.
    A transcript of Senator Reed’s floor speech follows:
    REED:  Mr. President, I rise to discuss my concern about the chaos that is roiling the Department of Defense.  Sunday will mark the 100th day of Pete Hegseth serving as Secretary of Defense.  During his confirmation hearing, Mr. Hegseth said, quote, “[President Trump] wants a Pentagon laser focused on warfighting, lethality, meritocracy, standards and readiness.  That’s it.  That is my job.”  Well, Mr. President, Secretary Hegseth is failing the mission President Trump gave him.  His actions over the past 100 days have done nothing but distract the Pentagon and undermine its warfighting, lethality, meritocracy, standards, and readiness. 
    In his first 100 days, Secretary Hegseth has terminated or weakened programs and processes that are the bedrock upon which the military recruits personnel and trains servicemembers to go into battle.  For example, in February, the Secretary announced his plan to slash the civilian workforce by 5 to 8 percent, terminate probationary workers, and institute a hiring freeze.  These severe measures have only meant more work for the remaining employees, and more costly work for military officers and contractors to cover the gaps, or simply not carry out missions.
    The Secretary has also launched a number of efforts to eliminate diversity and inclusion programs, which have led to more limited recruiting efforts, attempts to separate honorably serving transgender servicemembers, dissolving social clubs at the military academies, banning and removing books from the Naval Academy, and inspiring walkouts by students at DOD schools abroad over book bans and curriculum changes. I joined the Army in 1967 and served on active duty for 12 years, and the idea that dependent children of military personnel, in DOD schools, would protest the Secretary of Defense, to me was inconceivable, but it’s happened.  This shows, I think, great anxiety in the ranks of our military personnel all across the globe.
    The Secretary is also failing his duty to lead the Department by example.  On March 24, Mr. Hegseth demonstrated a severe lack of judgment when he texted classified military intelligence on the unclassified and unsecure Signal app to at least two group chats, including one with his wife, brother, and personal lawyer.  That information, if intercepted by an adversary, would endanger the lives of our servicemembers deployed downrange.  The Secretary also installed a “dirty line” – an unsecure internet connection – in his Pentagon office so he could more easily send texts and personal emails.  Such actions violate the laws and protocols that every other military servicemember is required to follow.  The Department of Defense Office of Inspector General is conducting an investigation of Mr. Hegseth’s mishandling of classified information, and I look forward to its findings.
    Just hours ago, we learned of press reports that National Security Adviser Mike Waltz may be fired this week because of his own actions around the Signal incident.  If true, I welcome the message of accountability that it would send.  Mr. Waltz made a significant mistake in adding a reporter to a sensitive Signal chat, and his failure of judgment could have had serious national security consequences.  I respect that he took responsibility for his mistake.  In contrast, Secretary Hegseth has refused to take responsibility for his own misconduct, which in my view was far more egregious than Mr. Waltz’s.
    Indeed, the fallout from this incident has further eroded the already dismal credibility that the Secretary brought to the Pentagon.  The Secretary’s inner circle of hand-picked advisers have nearly all resigned or been fired.  His chief of staff was dismissed amid allegations of incompetence and unsettling personal behavior.  Three of his senior policy advisors were fired for allegedly leaking sensitive information, which they all staunchly deny.  And his top spokesman resigned after losing confidence in the Secretary, writing, quote, “The building is in disarray under Hegseth’s leadership,” and, quote, “The last month has been a full-blown meltdown at the Pentagon — and it’s becoming a real problem for the administration.”  This chain of events is extraordinary and underscores the concerns I raised at Secretary Hegseth’s nomination hearing.  He does not possess the temperament nor the management skills needed to lead the Pentagon. 
    There have been multiple news reports that Secretary Hegseth spends much of his day focused on perceived leaks and that he has become paranoid, lashing out at aides and senior military leaders, convinced that they are undermining him.  He has threatened his top military advisors, including then-acting Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Grady and Joint Chiefs Director General Sims, with polygraph tests in order to prove that these distinguished military leaders are not liars.
    The Secretary’s office should be leading the Pentagon, allowing the rest of the Department to be laser-focused on their missions.  But again, President Trump and Secretary Hegseth have made that very difficult due to the internal disarray they have created by firing key military leaders.
    These firings include the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the Chief of Naval Operations, the Commander of Cyber Command, the U.S. Military Representative to NATO, the Vice Chief of the Air Force, the Secretary of Defense Senior Military Aide, and the top uniformed lawyers, or Judge Advocates General, of each of the military services.  As I’ve said before, if you want to break the law, you start by getting rid of the lawyers.
    These are not minor positions.  They are vital to the Department’s mission, and when left unfilled, the military loses focus and missions are compromised.   These officers were fired without a plan to replace them, which is crippling our military’s effectiveness during a perilous time.  More importantly, these officers were fired without explanation, which leads to the worst possible outcome for a military force – fear throughout the ranks that one should not speak up, should not refuse an illegal order, and should not call out abuse nor question decisions. 
    General and flag officers are charged with providing their unbiased “best military advice” to the civilian leaders of the Department of Defense. Servicemembers are expected to give candid feedback to their leaders and peers, and commanders expect troops to give them the facts, straight and true, because lives are on the line.  Similarly, Congress expects candor from senior officers to provide their best judgment — without fear of retribution — for both the security of our country, and that of the 2 million servicemembers who put themselves in harm’s way.
    But firing officers as a political litmus test poisons this military ethos.  It sends an immediate signal to troops that providing their unbiased best military advice might have career-ending consequences.
    I will take a brief moment to discuss the officers who have been dismissed.
    General CQ Brown
    General CQ Brown served as the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and was fired, without explanation, not even halfway into his four-year term.  He was visiting our troops on the southern border when he was abruptly dismissed by the President without even the courtesy of a warning.  General Brown served our nation honorably for more than four decades and led the Joint Chiefs with dedication and skill.  The Senate approved his nomination by a vote of 83-11.  To date, the Trump Administration has given no justification for his dismissal. 
    Seven full weeks passed without a confirmed Chairman of the Joint Chiefs.  General Dan Caine has now been confirmed and is working hard to get up to speed.  Given what happened to his predecessor, General Caine must realize that in addition to his duties as the Chairman, he must also deal with the political intrigue consuming the Pentagon.  I hope that General Caine will always provide his best military advice to the President and the Secretary of Defense, even if that advice not what they would want to hear.
    Admiral Lisa Franchetti
    Secretary Hegseth also dismissed Admiral Lisa Franchetti, who served as the 33rd Chief of Naval Operations.  She was the first woman to lead the Navy, and the first to serve on the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
    Admiral Franchetti served in leadership roles at every level throughout the Navy, both ashore and at sea, and with postings around the globe.  She was a trailblazer, team builder, and inspiration to many.  The Senate approved her nomination by a vote of 95-1.  Again, the Trump Administration has given no justification for her dismissal. 
    To date, the Administration has not nominated a new Chief of Naval Operations.  It has been two months since Admiral Franchetti was dismissed, and the Navy remains without a Senate-confirmed Chief of Naval Operations at a time when the service is involved in the most combat operations since World War II in the Red Sea.
    General Timothy Haugh
    General Timothy Haugh served as the Commander of U.S. Cyber Command and Director of the National Security Agency.  As the commander of Cyber Command, General Haugh led the most formidable cyber warfighting force in the world, responsible for detecting, deterring, and overseeing cyber operations against America’s adversaries – particularly China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, and various terrorist organizations.  General Haugh had a distinguished 34-year career within Air Force cyber and intelligence organizations, including multiple command assignments. 
    I am extremely concerned that press reports indicate that Laura Loomer, a fringe conspiracy theorist, convinced President Trump to dismiss General Haugh and fire a slew of expert staff on the National Security Council for no discernible reason.   Now, when a conspiracy theorist can get into the President’s office and convince him to fire an officer of General Haugh’s caliber – and others on the National Security Council – there’s not only something wrong with that individual, there’s something wrong with the President who would listen to them without consulting others.
    The Senate unanimously confirmed General Haugh to his post in December 2023, and, once again, the Trump Administration has given no explanation for his dismissal.  The Trump Administration has not selected a new CYBERCOM commander, and it’s unclear if there is any sense of urgency to fill this position.  Secretary Hegseth has given a priceless gift to China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea by purging leadership from one of our most vital national security commands.
    Vice Admiral Shoshana Chatfield
    Vice Admiral Shoshana Chatfield served as the United States Military Representative to NATO, the first woman to hold this position.  She held a vital leadership role within the alliance, particularly as it related to coordinating international support to Ukraine.  Admiral Chatfield was among the finest military officers our nation had to offer, with a 38-year career as a Navy helicopter pilot, foreign policy expert, and preeminent military educator, including as President of the Naval War College. 
    The Senate unanimously confirmed Vice Admiral Chatfield to her post in December 2023.  The Trump Administration has given no justification for her dismissal, and has not nominated any replacement to this critical posting at NATO.
    General James Slife
    General James Slife was the U.S. Air Force Vice Chief of Staff – the second highest ranking officer in the Air Force.  He spent most of his 36-year career as a special operations helicopter pilot.  He deployed many times around the world and flew countless combat missions in perilous conditions.  General Slife risked his life repeatedly for our nation and led his fellow special operators and Airmen with distinction. 
    The Senate unanimously confirmed General Slife to his post in December 2023.  The Trump Administration has given no explanation for his dismissal, nor nominated any officer to help lead the Air Force. 
    Lieutenant General Jennifer Short
    Lieutenant General Jennifer Short was the first female Senior Military Assistant to the Secretary of Defense.  She advised the Secretary and served as the representative for the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, coordinating policy and operations across the Joint Staff, combatant commands, and with the U.S. interagency.  A command pilot with more than 1,800 flight hours, including more than 430 combat hours in the A-10, she flew in operations Southern Watch, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom, and commanded Airmen at the squadron, wing, major command, and combatant command levels.
    The Senate unanimously confirmed her to her post.  The Trump Administration has given no explanation for her dismissal. 
    Judge Advocates General
    Finally, I am deeply concerned by Secretary Hegseth’s dismissal of the Judge Advocates General of the military services.  These officers, known as “TJAGs,” are the most senior uniformed lawyers in the military. 
    These officers each served more than 30 years in uniform as military lawyers.  They were strictly apolitical and held fundamental roles ensuring that balanced, legal counsel was part of every military policy discussion.  These officers provided legal oversight that spanned military justice, operational law, administrative compliance, government ethics, and U.S. adherence to the Law of Armed Conflict. 
    These unprecedented firings, along with the firings of the Inspectors General, should alarm everyone about the commitment of the President, and the Secretary of Defense, to the rule of law for the military, and also within the United States and across the world. 
    Mr. President, the Defense Department is one of the most complex institutions in the world, with a budget of nearly $900 billion and a workforce of nearly 3 million military and civilian personnel.  It is an organization that requires strong leadership, stability, predictability, and trust.  These qualities are critical because we ask the Department’s men and women to risk their lives every day in service of their country.  Mr. President, those men and women who gave their lives, and all those who still serving at this moment, deserve the best.  They deserve a leader who is as laser focused on readiness, lethality and the mission as they are.  Not someone who treats his position as Secretary as a performative exercise complete with a Twitter feed dominated with workout videos. 
    Our servicemembers deserve better.  They deserve someone who is focused on them, not focused on himself.   If Secretary Hegseth does not improve his job performance, the conditions at the Pentagon will continue to deteriorate and something worse is bound to happen.  I hope Secretary Hegseth takes note. 
    I yield the floor.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed Announces Additional $2.6 Million to Help RI Families Save on Home Energy Bills

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed
    WASHINGTON, DC – In an effort to help more Rhode Islanders reduce their home energy costs, U.S. Senator Jack Reed today announced that Rhode Island is getting an additional $2.6 million through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), after the Trump Administration finally released the remaining $400 million in LIHEAP aid this week to states nationwide.
    Reed, a member of the Appropriations Committee, helped provide a nationwide total of $4.1 billion for LIHEAP in FY 2025.
    LIHEAP is a federally funded program that helps low-income households with their home energy bills by providing payment and energy crisis assistance to pay for gas, electric, and other methods customers use to heat their homes. 
    This latest allocation brings Rhode Island’s FY 2025 appropriation for LIHEAP up to $26.6 million so far this year.
    Last October, the Biden Administration released ninety percent of LIHEAP funds to states to give states time to properly plan and deploy these funds through the end of the fiscal year, which runs through September of 2025.  This included an allocation of $534,784 in LIHEAP funds that Senator Reed helped include through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).
    “This latest infusion of federal LIHEAP funding will provide overdue support to families in need and help them cope with high energy costs.  In addition to easing the strain on household budgets, the release of LIHEAP funds also helps local small businesses that supply home heating fuel to customers with fixed or limited incomes,” said Senator Reed.
    LIHEAP is administered by states and accessed through local Community Action Agencies.  Eligibility for LIHEAP is based on income, family size, and the availability of resources.
    Nationwide, an estimated 6 million households received assistance with heating and cooling costs through LIHEAP over the last year, including over 28,200 Rhode Island households.
    The average LIHEAP benefit covering about $500 in winter home heating costs for Rhode Islanders.
    Rhode Islanders wishing to apply for LIHEAP may click here to reach the Rhode Island Department of Human Services website to get more information and links to an online application. 
    Senator Reed noted that while the release of these federal funds to states is good news, he remains deeply concerned about the Trump Administration decimating the LIHEAP staff at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the impact that could have on the federal government’s ability to effectively manage the program and assist states with LIHEAP going forward.  Reed says he has no doubt that President Trump will once again try to eliminate LIHEAP altogether but vowed to work on a bipartisan basis to include LIHEAP funding in future Appropriations laws, just as he successfully did during the first Trump Administration.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: May 1st, 2025 Heinrich, Luján, Colleagues Demand to Know Who Killed Minority Business Development Agency, Why & Where’s the Money Going?

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
    “Who is actually running the Department: Secretary Lutnick or Elon Musk and DOGE?” Senators ask
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, joined U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell, Ranking Member of the Senate Commerce Committee, and five Senate Democrats in demanding that Keith Sonderling, the purported Acting Under Secretary of Commerce for the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), promptly turn over key documents and information related to the dismantling of the agency and recent funding termination notices sent to all grantees by a member of Elon Musk’s DOGE. The senators’ demands come as Paul Dabbar, President Trump’s nominee for Deputy Secretary of Commerce, appeared on Thursday before the Commerce Committee for his nomination hearing.
    “In one MBDA termination notice reviewed by our offices, the Department claims the grant is being terminated because it ‘is unfortunately no longer consistent with the agency’s priorities and no longer serves the interests of the United States and the MBDA Program,’” the senators wrote in a letter to Sonderling, who was confirmed by the Senate as Deputy Secretary of Labor in March. “The termination notice further states that, ‘MBDA is repurposing its funding allocations in a new direction in furtherance of the President’s agenda.’ …[T]he notice is silent about why the grants are inconsistent with the MBDA’s priorities and programs—which Congress, not the Department, set by statute. And it suggests the DOC or others in the Administration may be using funding appropriated for the MBDA for other, unrelated purposes.”
    The senators questioned Sonderling about the notice terminating all MBDA grants, which was signed by Nate Cavanaugh, a member of Elon Musk’s so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and “Under the Authority of Keith Sonderling, Acting Undersecretary of MBDA.”  
    “This raises significant questions regarding Mr. Cavanaugh’s precise role at DOC and the mechanism by which you or other members of DOC leadership delegated him authority to terminate MDBA grants on behalf of the Department,” their letter continued. “Our offices have also obtained information indicating you may not have been aware these termination notices were being sent out by Mr. Cavanaugh under your authority, which would raise further questions about who is actually running the Department: Secretary Lutnick or Elon Musk and DOGE?”
    The letter is also signed by U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), and Andy Kim (D-N.J.).
    In October 2024, Heinrich  led the unveiling of a new, larger office space for the New Mexico Minority Business Development Center in Albuquerque to expand support for local businesses across the state as they create the types of careers New Mexicans can build their families around. Heinrich wrote the legislative provision that established and funded the New Mexico Business Center in 2020, securing more than $2.5 million in federal resources through the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Minority Business Development Agency for its staffing and programming.
    Today, during the Senate Commerce hearing on the nomination of Paul Dabbar to be U.S. Deputy Secretary of Commerce, Luján pressed Mr. Dabbar on the dismantlement of the MBDA by the Trump administration and highlighted the successes of the MBDA. Senator Luján championed an amendment in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to make the MBDA permanent. He also secured passage of a provision to double the funding level for the MBDA’s Rural Business Development Center Program and to expand this program’s eligibility to include all Minority-Serving Institutions, which will expand opportunities for New Mexico’s colleges and universities. Additionally, in 2021, Luján championed legislation to make permanent and expand the reach of the Minority Business Development Agency.
    The full text of the letter can be found HERE and below:
    The Honorable Keith Sonderling
    Acting Under Secretary for Minority Business Development Agency
    U.S. Department of Commerce
    1401 Constitution Avenue, NWWashington, DC 20230                                              
    Acting Under Secretary Sonderling:
    On March 25, 2025, and April 17, 2025, we sent letters to Secretary Howard Lutnick raising serious concerns about the apparent dismantling of the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), despite his testimony before the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation stating he would not support doing so. In our April 17 letter, we requested specific documents and information that would help address our outstanding questions and concerns regarding the MBDA. On April 24, 2025, we received a letter from the Department of Commerce (DOC) Acting Assistant Secretary for Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs purporting to respond to our April 17 letter. This response, however, contained a mere three sentences related to the MBDA and failed to answer or meaningfully address any of our requests. Given Secretary Lutnick’s apparent disregard for our concerns about the Department’s actions against the MBDA, we are now requesting you provide documents and information related to this inquiry.
    Since our most recent letter, our offices have obtained information demonstrating that DOC has canceled all MBDA grants—further dismantling an agency Congress statutorily authorized, despite Secretary Lutnick’s testimony to the contrary. In one MBDA termination notice reviewed by our offices, the Department claims the grant is being terminated because it “is unfortunately no longer consistent with the agency’s priorities and no longer serves the interests of the United States and the MBDA Program.” The termination notice further states that, “MBDA is repurposing its funding allocations in a new direction in furtherance of the President’s agenda.” Beyond these conclusory assertions, however, the notice is silent about why the grants are inconsistent with the MBDA’s priorities and programs—which Congress, not the Department, set by statute. And it suggests the DOC or others in the Administration may be using funding appropriated for the MBDA for other, unrelated purposes.
    Raising further concerns, the termination notice was signed by Nate Cavanaugh—who we understand to be part of the so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)—and is signed “Under the Authority of Keith Sonderling, Acting Undersecretary of MBDA.” Mr. Cavanaugh has reportedly been interviewing employees at the General Services Administration and overseeing efforts to dismantle another agency, the U.S. Institute of Peace. The termination notice indicates that Mr. Cavanaugh now has a DOC e-mail address. This raises significant questions regarding Mr. Cavanaugh’s precise role at DOC and the mechanism by which you or other members of DOC leadership delegated him authority to terminate MDBA grants on behalf of the Department. Our offices have also obtained information indicating you may not have been aware these termination notices were being sent out by Mr. Cavanaugh under your authority, which would raise further questions about who is actually running the Department: Secretary Lutnick or Elon Musk and DOGE?
    Given the lack of responsiveness from the Department to date, we reiterate the requests raised in our April 17, 2025 letter, and request the following additional documents and information no later than May 14, 2025:
    A complete description of Mr. Cavanaugh’s position at DOC, including his title, job description, date(s) of employment, any salary, any benefits, supervisor, and direct reports. Please also identify all other federal e-mail addresses assigned to or used by Mr. Cavanaugh of which you are aware.
    Documents sufficient to show Mr. Cavanaugh’s delegated authority to execute termination notices to MBDA grantees. 
    Documentation sufficient to show your appointment as Acting Under Secretary for Minority Business Development Agency and the date of such appointment.
    A complete description of your decision to delegate your authority to Mr. Cavanaugh for the purpose of terminating MBDA grants, including the extent to which Secretary Lutnick or any other senior DOC official was involved in making this decision.
    A complete description of the types of funded activities that are considered “consistent with the agency’s priorities” and “serve[] the interests of…the MBDA program.”
    A detailed explanation of how the MBDA intends to “repurpos[e] its funding allocations in a new direction in furtherance of the President’s agenda,” including any specific program or activity that has received or is expected to receive repurposed funding.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murray, Daines Introduce Bill to Cut Red Tape, Create Simplified Pathway for Ecosystem Restoration in Regulated Floodplains

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, introduced the Floodplain Enhancement and Recovery Act with Senator Steve Daines (R-MT). This bipartisan legislation would create a new pathway for ecosystem restoration projects in floodplains that meet specific low-risk criteria and would simplify approval for important restoration work while still upholding flood safety standards.
    Under the current Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) policy, any proposed development in a regulated floodway, whether it’s a shopping mall or salmon habitat, must prove that it will not increase the base flood elevation (BFE) of the area. This requirement is commonly referred to as the “No Rise” rule. While important for protecting communities from increased flood risks, it has had major unintended consequences on important environmental restoration in Washington state and around the country.
    “Here in Washington state ensuring our waterways stay healthy is critical for not just environmental conservation efforts, but important for our communities and economy as well. This legislation will simplify approval of ecosystem restoration projects in floodplains, which is critical for many projects in Washington state where many communities are in a regulated floodway,” said Senator Murray. “Government should be making it easier to protect our environment, not harder. I am proud to be a partner to the many Tribes and advocates in Washington state that have been pushing for the Floodplain Enhancement and Recovery Act, and I will continue to fight for commonsense solutions to protect and restore our ecosystems.”
    In Washington state, many salmon habitat restoration projects involve placing woody debris in a waterway to slow water and make safe spaces for juvenile salmon to develop. These projects, and many others, often fail the “No Rise” rule. Currently, the only way around the rule is to first update FEMA’s flood maps with the projected BFE impacts. This requires extensive and very expensive hydrologic and hydraulic analyses, often performed by a third-party engineer. FEMA then reviews the analyses, replicates them, and approves them internally before giving the okay to move forward, which has taken up to three years to complete. While this process often makes sense in an urbanized, flood-prone community, it is an unnecessary exercise for restoration in remote areas.
    “Critical ecosystem restoration projects across Montana have been abandoned due to FEMA’s onerous and costly ‘No Rise’ rule. This commonsense, bipartisan bill will reduce unnecessary burdens on important conservation and restoration work, while continuing to keep our communities safe from flooding,” said Senator Daines.
    Many communities in Washington have avoided doing restoration work in regulated floodways—which makes up much of the state—to avoid the associated costs. This bill would allow for a more efficient process for ecosystem restoration in a regulated floodplain and addresses the issue of “No Rise,” which has been a priority concern for a number of Tribal communities and salmon advocates in Washington state for the last few years.
    “Ecosystem restoration projects reduce flood risk and restore the natural functions of floodplains,” said Ed Johnstone, Chairman of Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission. “This proposed legislation is a strong step toward removing an undue burden for these essential habitat restoration and nature-based solution projects. Treaty tribes support legislation that keeps communities safe while restoring salmon habitat and protecting treaty rights in the Pacific Northwest.”
    “Restoring healthy floodplains is just one of many nature-based solutions that must be integrated into our national efforts to make communities safer and rivers healthier in the face of increasingly extreme weather,” said Eileen Shader, Senior Advisor for American Rivers Action Fund and a floodplains expert. “Making sure that these cost-efficient and common-sense restoration projects are not limited by inefficiencies in the regulatory framework is an important step in ensuring lives and property are protected.” 
    “The Association of State Floodplain Managers supports this legislation because it is a practical solution balancing the need to identify any relevant impacts of floodplain restoration projects with time, effort and resources to do so,” said Chad Berginnis, Executive Director of The Association of State Floodplain Managers. “The land use and development standards of the NFIP need to be sensibly applied in a way to protect and enhance the natural and beneficial functions of our nation’s floodplains.”  
    “We appreciate Senator Murray’s leadership and partnership in developing this important legislation. It’s a common-sense approach that reduces costs and delays for watershed restoration while maintaining flood safety,” said Casey Sixkiller, Director of the Washington State Department of Ecology. “By giving our federal partners more flexibility in their review processes, this bill will help move critical ecosystem and salmon recovery projects forward without unnecessary regulatory hurdles or added costs.”
    “There are many benefits to having intact natural floodplains. One of them is that they lower the risks associated with flooding. That is one of the main reasons why The Nature Conservancy supports policies, like this one from Senators Murray and Daines, that help scale up work to restore floodplains,” said Cameron Adams, Policy Advisor for The Nature Conservancy. “This bipartisan legislation would give communities the flexibility they want and need to do science-backed ecosystem restoration projects in flood zones. These types of projects don’t just benefit people, but also plants and animals that thrive in healthy landscapes.”
    “Ecosystem restoration projects are a vital tool to address landscape recovery and habitat restoration, especially after major weather events. This amendment would make it easier for local communities to develop effective and necessary restoration projects by streamlining the approval process for ecosystem restoration projects,” said Jeremy Peters, CEO of National Association of Conservation Districts. “NACD appreciates the clarity and flexibility provided in this amendment and looks forward to seeing how local conservation districts will have an even greater impact in areas in need of restoration.”
    Senator Murray has been a champion for protecting and strengthening critical salmon and fish populations throughout her time in the Senate. Senator Murray secured a historic $2.85 billion investment in salmon and ecosystem restoration programs—including $400 million for a new community-based restoration program focused on removing fish passage barriers in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law—and in the Inflation Reduction Act, Murray secured hundreds of millions for Washington state priorities including $15 million for the Pacific Coastal Salmon Recovery Fund, $3 million to support facilities at the Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary, $27 million for Pacific salmon research, and more.
    Last Congress, as then-Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Murray protected critical funding for salmon recovery and fishery projects in the Fiscal Year 2024 government spending bills she negotiated and passed into law, including securing: $50 million in the construction of the Howard Hanson Dam Fish Passage facility; $75 million for the Pacific Salmon account at the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), $65 million for the Pacific Coastal Salmon Recovery Fund, $54 million for the EPA’s Puget Sound Geographic Program, and more.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley, Whitehouse Welcome GAO Report on Use of Beneficial Ownership Information to Bolster Fraud Detection

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    WASHINGTON – Sens. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) welcomed the release of a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report examining the use of beneficial ownership information in law enforcement or Inspectors General investigations to detect fraud and misconduct in government programs.
    Grassley and Whitehouse requested the report last Congress as part of their ongoing bipartisan work to improve government accountability and transparency, combat illicit finance and bolster the U.S.’s anti-corruption efforts.  
    “For decades, criminals, cartels and foreign terrorists have used shell companies to steal taxpayer dollars, launder their ill-gotten gains and endanger American lives with lethal drugs and violent crime. Last Congress, Senator Whitehouse and I uncovered just one aspect of these systemic weaknesses in lax Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) registration,” Grassley said. “In order to fight this pervasive form of fraud, and support President Trump’s agenda of cutting waste, fraud and abuse, Inspectors General must know who the true owners of U.S. corporations are. FinCEN ought to swiftly implement GAO’s recommendations and provide Inspectors General access to the company registry of beneficial owners.”
    “America is engaged in a clash of civilizations, between rule of law and international corruption and kleptocracy. Senator Grassley and I worked for years to pass the Corporate Transparency Act to support law enforcement’s ability to go after fraudsters, cartels, and criminals, who routinely use shell companies to stash dirty money in plain sight,” Whitehouse said. “This timely GAO report details how company ownership reporting betters our government’s approach to cracking down on fraudsters stealing government money and benefits at the expense of honest small businesses and taxpayers.”
    Findings:
    The GAO report found that some private companies competing for government contracts or applying for federal benefits perpetrated fraud against the government through obscuring their ownership information. The report recommends that the Department of the Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) work with Inspectors General to facilitate the use of beneficial ownership information to bolster fraud detection, anti-corruption and illicit finance risk.   
    The report describes how shell company schemes result in significant financial losses and threaten our national security and public safety, including the theft of $93 million from Medicare to the transfer of sensitive military technology to foreign countries. About 85 percent of Inspectors General reported that beneficial ownership information could help prevent and investigate fraud in the government.  
    Background:
    Grassley and Whitehouse were the original sponsors of the TITLE Act, the precursor to the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA). The CTA was designed to play an important role in protecting national security and public safety by providing law enforcement and national security officials with the names of the true owners (“beneficial ownership information”) of U.S. corporations and other legal entities. This information aids the government’s efforts to combat terrorist financing, money laundering, sanctions evasion, proliferation financing, tax evasion and other forms of illicit finance carried out through shell and front companies.  
    The CTA was the culmination of more than a decade of painstaking bipartisan congressional deliberation. The measure passed as part of the FY2021 National Defense Authorization Act and was supported by a wide range of stakeholders, including national security experts, law enforcement, anti-corruption groups, human rights organizations, faith communities, financial institutions, real estate organizations, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, labor unions and the first Trump Administration.   
    Read the full report HERE.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Midwives on the front line: Health workers, humanitarians, heroes

    Source: United Nations Population Fund

    Statement by UNFPA Executive Director Dr. Natalia Kanem on the International Day of the Midwife (5 May 2025)

    When bombs fall or floods wash away roads and homes, where services are severed and infrastructure has collapsed, midwives are often the first responders and the last line of defence. They often travel across even the most remote and dangerous terrain to ensure essential services that save lives and safeguard health and human rights. 

    In humanitarian settings, women are twice as likely to die in childbirth. Deploying midwives as part of every humanitarian and national disaster response is a life-saving and cost-effective way to reduce preventable maternal deaths. 

    Midwives can provide 90 per cent of essential sexual, reproductive, maternal and newborn health services, including family planning. They also support survivors of gender-based violence, which skyrockets during crises. 

    Midwives often put themselves at enormous risk when they venture out to provide care to women and girls in hard to reach homes and communities in crisis settings.

    Yet, midwifery is still not always recognized as the vital health profession it is. Chronic underinvestment in midwifery has translated to inadequate training, a lack of infrastructure and supplies, and low salaries – barriers that are present in times of stability and only grow worse in times of crisis.

    Recent severe funding cuts to humanitarian assistance threaten to widen these gaps, with tragic impacts on women and girls in some of the world’s most challenging places. Already, midwives are reporting rising death rates among women and newborns in conflict zones and fragile contexts – an ominous sign in settings where over 60 per cent of global maternal deaths are reported. 

    We know that midwives could avert two thirds of maternal and newborn deaths, while delivering vast economic and social benefits – from lower healthcare costs to more productive workforces. Women and entire societies would be both less vulnerable to crisis and more equipped to recover from it. 

    On this International Day of the Midwife, we call on governments and donors to join UNFPA and partners in the Midwifery Accelerator initiative, which aims to increase financial and programmatic investments in midwives – and the systems that support them – before more lives are lost.

    Midwives save lives. Let us work together to end the global shortage of nearly 1 million midwives and to ensure that we can end preventable maternal deaths once and for all.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Global Bodies – IPU welcomes the release of former MP Ahmed Al-Alwani

    Source: Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU)

    Geneva, Switzerland, Thursday 1 May 2025 – The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) welcomes the release and acquittal of former Iraqi MP Mr. Ahmed Al-Alwani on 23 April 2025, following more than a decade of detention.

    Mr. Al-Alwani was arrested in December 2013 in Ramadi, Iraq, in a raid that violated his parliamentary immunity and resulted in the deaths of his brother and seven others. He was held incommunicado, tortured and sentenced to death by hanging.

    The IPU Committee on the Human Rights of Parliamentarians has been closely monitoring the case, repeatedly calling for his release and seeking opportunities to engage with Iraqi authorities.

    In August 2023, a breakthrough came when an IPU delegation, including the Committee President at the time, Mr. Samuel Cogolati, and former member Mr. Mushahid Hussein, visited Baghdad. The team met with Iraqi leaders at the highest levels, as well as Mr. Al-Alwani in detention, his family and legal representatives.

    The mission provided a platform for dialogue, transparency and trust-building. During the visit, the IPU used diplomatic channels to urge political and religious leaders to prevent Mr. Al-Alwani’s execution and to seek a satisfactory resolution.

    More recently, the release of Mr. Al-Alwani became possible after the family of a victim from the 2013 raid withdrew their complaint and accepted financial compensation, enabling Mr. Al-Alwani to benefit from the amnesty law.

    The IPU’s efforts, combined with the crucial mediation of tribal leaders and the Iraqi authorities’ commitment to resolving the case, helped overcome longstanding political obstacles and contributed to Mr. Al-Alwani’s release.

    Mr. Al-Alwani’s family have credited the IPU’s consistent advocacy, monitoring and direct engagement with promoting accountability and encouraging the Iraqi authorities to reach a fair and peaceful resolution.

    Background

    The IPU Committee on the Human Rights of Parliamentarians is the only international complaints mechanism with the specific mandate to defend the human rights of persecuted parliamentarians around the world. Its work includes mobilizing the international parliamentary community to support threatened MPs, lobbying national authorities, visiting MPs in danger and sending trial observers.

    Find out more about the live cases currently being monitored by the IPU: https://data.ipu.org/dataset/human-rights-of-mps/

    The IPU is the global organization of national parliaments. It was founded in 1889 as the first multilateral political organization in the world, encouraging cooperation and dialogue between all nations. Today, the IPU comprises 181 national Member Parliaments and 14 regional parliamentary bodies. It promotes peace, democracy and sustainable development. It helps parliaments become stronger, younger, greener, more innovative and gender-balanced.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI: Gran Tierra Energy Inc. Reports First Quarter 2025 Results, Record Production and Continued Exploration Success

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Achieved Record Total Company Average Quarterly Production of 46,647 boepd
    • Ecuador Exploration Success Continues with Additional Oil Discoveries in Iguana Block
    • Solid Balance Sheet, Exited the Quarter with $77 Million in Cash Following Active Capital Campaign, Paid Down $27 Million of Debt
    • Additional Liquidity Secured with Signing of New $75 Million Credit Facility

    CALGARY, Alberta, May 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gran Tierra Energy Inc. (“Gran Tierra” or the “Company”) (NYSE American:GTE)(TSX:GTE)(LSE:GTE) announced the Company’s financial and operating results for the quarter ended March 31, 2025 (“the Quarter”) and provided an operational update. All dollar amounts are in United States (“U.S.”) dollars and all reserves and production volumes are on an average working interest before royalties (“WI”) basis unless otherwise indicated. Production is expressed in barrels (“bbl”) of oil equivalent (“boe”) per day (“boepd” or “boe/d”) and are based on WI sales before royalties. For per boe amounts based on net after royalty (“NAR”) production, see Gran Tierra’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed May 1, 2025.

    Message to Shareholders

    Gary Guidry, President and Chief Executive Officer of Gran Tierra, commented: “Our first quarter performance reflects strong operational execution and disciplined financial management. Our front-loaded 2025 capital program, which had up to five rigs active during the quarter, delivered record drilling times and cost efficiencies across our key assets. We continue to generate returns through our share buyback program and ongoing debt reduction. Lowering leverage remains a key priority as we focus on projects which deliver quick cycle returns and maintain flexibility to invest in high-return opportunities across our portfolio. Our focused exploration efforts also continue to deliver successful results, reinforcing the quality of our assets and long-term strategy to create value. With current production of approximately 48,400(2) boe/d and a strong hedge position for the remainder of the year we are well positioned to generate value while remaining resilient amid commodity price volatility.”

    Operational Update:

    • Ecuador
      • Gran Tierra has successfully drilled two additional oil discoveries in Ecuador, the Iguana B1 and Iguana B2 wells on the Iguana Block. The combined wells have an average oil production rate over 30 days of ~1,684 bopd from the U-Sand formation (with a less than 1% watercut), an average API of 28° and 520 standard cubic foot per stock tank barrel of gas-to-oil ratio. The Iguana B1 well was drilled and completed in record time and under budget, establishing a new pace-setting well in Gran Tierra’s Ecuador exploration campaign.
      • The drilling rig has been stacked on the Iguana pad, pending mobilization to the new Conejo pad on the Charapa Block, to resume exploration drilling during the third quarter of 2025.
    • Colombia
      • Gran Tierra successfully drilled the first three of five wells from the Cohembi North Pad during the Quarter. All wells were under budget and drilled 60% faster than the previous operator. These wells represent the Company’s first drilling operations as operator, with the remaining two wells expected to be drilled during the second quarter of 2025. Upon completion of the program, the rig will move to the Costayaco Pad to commence a three well development program during the second quarter of 2025.
      • By the end of the Quarter, the civil, electrical and mechanical field works at Cohembi reached 100% mechanical completion. This project was initiated to facilitate the processing of new production from the Cohembi North Pad at the Cohembi Central Processing Facility.
      • Optimization of the Acordionero field is ongoing through waterflood expansion, which includes facility enhancements, electrical submersible pump upsizing, injector conversions and upgrades to gas-to-power generation. These initiatives are focused on reducing unit costs, offsetting natural declines and improving overall recovery factors. The field continues to perform strongly, with average production of 13,824 boepd in the Quarter. This represents a two percent increase from the fourth quarter of 2024, despite no wells being drilled since the first quarter of 2024. Current production (April 1 – 30, 2025) is approximately 14,500 boepd, a 5% increase from the first quarter of 2025 average, reflecting the strong reservoir response to the execution of our first quarter waterflood management optimization program. The Company continues to see significant development potential at Acordionero and is planning another drilling program of eight to ten wells in 2026 targeting high oil saturation, unswept infill locations.
    • Canada
      • Gran Tierra and its joint venture partner, Logan Energy Corp., successfully drilled and completed two Lower Montney wells at Simonette. These two wells were brought on stream from the 16-13-61-1W6 (“16-13”) pad and completed with a similar optimized Lower Montney completion design as the 13-13-61-1W6 offset well drilled in 2022. After 21 days since being placed on production, the average gross production per well was 674 bbl/d oil, 13 bbl/d NGLs and 767 Mcf/d of gas (814 boe/d at 84% liquids), Gran Tierra has a 50% Working Interest and the wells continue to clean-up. This early production performance surpasses the prior offset well by 80% for the same time period and are exceeding their budgeted type curves. After 21 days since being placed on production, the average gross production per well was 674 bbl/d oil, 13 bbl/d NGLs and 767 Mcf/d of gas (814 boe/d at 84% liquids). Gran Tierra has a 50% Working Interest and the wells continue to clean-up. This early production performance surpasses the prior offset well by 80% for the same time period and are exceeding their budgeted type curves.
      • Gran Tierra successfully acquired 21 sections of prospective land in Central Alberta along the Nisku fairway in March 2025, which adds over 50 potential drilling opportunities to its drilling inventory.
      • At Clearwater, Gran Tierra participated in the successful drilling of two gross (0.5 net) wells during the Quarter, and both wells are estimated to be on stream imminently. The first well drilled was a 4-legged injector to support a water flood pilot in the Marten Hills block, potentially increasing reserves based off nearby analogue waterflood results. The second well (non-op), with 14 legs, was drilled in the Seal block to test the productivity of heavy oil in the Bluesky formation.

    Key Highlights of the Quarter:

    • Production: Gran Tierra’s total average WI production was 46,647 boepd, which was 14% higher than fourth quarter 2024 (“the Prior Quarter”) and 45% higher than the first quarter of 2024. Higher production during the Quarter was due to the Company recognizing three full months of production from Canada and positive exploration well results in Ecuador.
    • Net Income: Gran Tierra incurred a net loss of $19 million, compared to a net loss of $34 million in the Prior Quarter and a net loss of nil in the first quarter of 2024.
    • Adjusted EBITDA(1): Adjusted EBITDA(1) was $85 million compared to $76 million in the Prior Quarter and $95 million in the first quarter of 2024. Twelve-month trailing Net Debt(1) to Adjusted EBITDA(1) was 1.9 times (only accounts for five months of Canadian operations Adjusted EBITDA) and the Company continues to have a long-term target ratio of 1.0 times.
    • Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities: Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities was $73 million ($2.05 per share), up 175% from the Prior Quarter and up 20% from the first quarter of 2024.
    • Funds Flow from Operations(1): Funds flow from operations(1) was $55 million ($1.55 per share), up 25% from the Prior Quarter and down 26% from the first quarter of 2024 as a result of lower oil prices.
    • Cash and Debt: As of March 31, 2025, the Company had a cash balance of $77 million, total debt of $760 million and net debt(1) of $683 million. During the Quarter, the Company repaid at maturity the remaining principal of its 6.25% Senior Notes due in 2025 in an amount of $25 million and repurchased $2 million of its 9.5% Senior Notes due in 2029.
    • Liquidity: In addition to the $77 million cash on hand as of March 31, 2025, the Company currently has approximately $110 million in undrawn credit and lending facilities. The Company has a revolving credit facility agreement in Canada with a borrowing base of C$100.0 million with available commitment of C$50.0 million and is available until October 31, 2025 with a repayment date of October 31, 2026, which may be extended by further periods of up to 364 days, subject to lender approval. On April 16, 2025, the Company announced an additional $75 million reserve-based lending facility in Colombia with a final maturity date in 36 months from the closing date.
    • Share Buybacks: Gran Tierra repurchased 453,050 shares of common stock during the Quarter. From January 1, 2023, to April 29, 2025, the Company repurchased approximately 5.2 million shares, or 15% of shares issued and outstanding on January 1, 2023.

    Additional Key Financial Metrics:

    • Capital Expenditures: Capital expenditures of $95 million were higher than the $79 million in the Prior Quarter and higher than $55 million in the first quarter of 2024 as a result of the addition of the Canadian development program, an active Ecuador exploration program and development activities in the Cohembi field in Colombia during the Quarter. During the Quarter, the Company had three rigs active in Canada, one in Ecuador and one in Colombia. Currently, the Company has one rig active in Colombia.
    • Oil Sales: Gran Tierra generated oil sales of $171 million, up 8% from the first quarter of 2024 as a result of 45% higher sales volumes due to higher production and the tightening of the Castilla, Vasconia and Oriente oil differentials which offset lower Brent pricing. Oil sales increased 16% from the Prior Quarter primarily due to 17% higher sales volumes, a 1% increase in Brent price and lower Castilla, Oriente, and Vasconia oil differentials.
    • South American Quality and Transportation Discounts: The Company’s quality and transportation discounts in South America per bbl were lower during the Quarter at $11.58, compared to $13.94 in the Prior Quarter and $15.36 in the first quarter of 2024. The Castilla oil differential per bbl tightened to $5.34, down from $8.33 in the Prior Quarter and $8.82 in the first quarter of 2024 (Castilla is the benchmark for the Company’s Middle Magdalena Valley Basin oil production). The Vasconia differential per bbl tightened to $2.27, down from $5.02 in the Prior Quarter, and $5.05 in the first quarter of 2024. The Ecuadorian benchmark, Oriente, per bbl was $7.65, down from $9.40 in the Prior Quarter and $8.02 one year ago. The current(2) differentials are approximately $4.94 per bbl for Castilla, $1.87 per bbl for Vasconia, and $7.26 per bbl for Oriente.
    • Operating Expenses: On a per boe basis, operating expenses decreased by 3% when compared to the first quarter of 2024 and the Prior Quarter. Operating expenses increased by 11% to $67 million, compared to the Prior Quarter and increased by 39% from $48 million compared to the first quarter of 2024, primarily due to new Canadian operations and increases in production volumes in Ecuador. The increase in total operating costs is commensurate with the 45% increase in production.
    • Transportation Expenses: The Company’s transportation expenses increased by 62% to $7 million, compared to the Prior Quarter’s transportation expenses of $4 million, and increased by 51% compared to the first quarter of 2024. Transportation expenses were higher due to new Canadian operations and higher sales volumes transported in Ecuador during the Quarter.
    • Operating Netback(1)(3): The Company’s operating netback(1)(3) was $22.70 per boe, up 2% from the Prior Quarter and down 36% from the first quarter of 2024 because of of the addition of the Canadian assets and approximately 50 of Canadian production tied to AECO gas pricing.
    • General and Administrative (“G&A”) Expenses: G&A expenses before stock-based compensation were $2.86 per boe, up from $2.75 per boe in the Prior Quarter due to increased audit fees relating to the acquisition of the Canadian assets, a full quarter of Canadian salaries and increased IT expenses. G&A expenses before stock-based compensation were down from $3.65 per boe, compared to the first quarter of 2024 as a result of higher sales volumes in the Quarter.
    • Cash Netback(1): Cash netback(1) per boe increased to $13.04, compared to $11.90 in the Prior Quarter primarily as a result of transaction costs of $1.20 per boe incurred in the Prior Quarter as a result of the acquisition of the Canadian operations. Compared to one year ago, cash netback(1) per boe decreased by $12.09 from $25.13 per boe as a result of lower operating netback primarily due to lower realized price.

    Gran Tierra Reconfirms Previously Disclosed 2025 Consolidated Guidance and Provides Country Breakdown:

    2025 Budget Low Case Base Case High Case
    Brent Oil Price ($/bbl) 65.00 75.00 85.00
    WTI Oil Price ($/bbl) 61.00 71.00 81.00
    AECO Natural Gas Price ($CAD/thousand cubic feet) 2.00 2.50 3.50
    Production (boepd) 47,000-53,000 47,000-53,000 47,000-53,000
    Operating Netback1,3($ million) 330-370 430-470 510-550
    EBITDA1($ million) 300-340 380-420 460-500
    Cash Flow1($ million) 200-240 260-300 300-340
    Capital Expenditures ($ million) 200-240 240-280 240-280
    Free Cash Flow1($ million) – 20 60
    Number of Development Wells (gross) 8-12 10-14 10-14
    Number of Exploration Wells (gross) 6 6-8 6-8
    Budgeted Costs Costs per boe ($/boe)
    Lifting 12.00-14.00
    Workovers 1.50-2.50
    Transportation 1.00-2.00
    General and Administration 2.00-3.00
    Interest 4.00-4.50
    Current Tax 2.00-3.00
    2025 Budget by Country – Base Case Canada Colombia Ecuador
    Production (kboepd) 18 – 19* 25 – 27 4 – 7
           
    Per Barrel ($/boe)      
    Realized Price 22 – 24 51 – 53 43 – 45
    Operating and Transportation Expense 10 – 12 19 – 21 12 – 14
    Operating Netback 10 – 14 30 – 34 29 – 33

    *Canada’s production is comprised of approximately 50% natural gas, 21% oil and 29% natural gas liquids (“NGL”)

    Financial and Operational Highlights (all amounts in $000s, except per share and boe amounts)

    Consolidated Financial Data Three Months Ended March 31,   Three Months
    Ended
    December 31,
      2025 2024   2024
             
    Net Income (Loss) $(19,280) $(78)   $(34,210)
    Per Share – Basic and Diluted $(0.54) $—   $(1.00)
             
    Oil, Natural Gas and NGL Sales $170,533 $157,577   $147,290
    Operating Expenses (67,354) (48,466)   (60,770)
    Transportation Expenses (6,911) (4,584)   (4,279)
    Operating Netback(1)(3) $96,268 $104,527   $82,241
             
    G&A Expenses Before Stock-Based Compensation $12,143 $10,782   $10,191
    G&A Stock-Based Compensation (Recovery) Expense (517) 3,361   3,331
    G&A Expenses, Including Stock Based Compensation $11,626 $14,143   $13,522
             
    Adjusted EBITDA(1) $85,162 $94,792   $76,168
             
    EBITDA(1) $79,710 $91,891   $65,247
             
    Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities $73,230 $60,827   $26,607
             
    Funds Flow from Operations(1) $55,344 $74,307   $44,129
             
    Capital Expenditures $94,727 $55,331   $78,579
             
    Free Cash Flow(1) $(39,383) $18,976   $(34,450)
             
    Average Daily Production (boe/d)        
    WI Production Before Royalties 46,647 32,242   41,009
    Royalties (8,084) (6,397)   (7,327)
    Production NAR 38,563 25,845   33,682
    Decrease (Increase) in Inventory 461 235   (712)
    Sales 39,024 26,080   32,970
    Royalties, % of WI Production Before Royalties 17% 20%   18%
             
    Cash Netback ($/boe)(1)        
    Average Realized Price before Royalties 48.55 66.40   48.56
    Royalties (8.33) (13.08)   (8.83)
    Average Realized Price 40.22 53.32   39.73
    Transportation Expenses (1.63) (1.55)   (1.15)
    Average Realized Price Net of Transportation Expenses 38.59 51.77   38.58
    Operating Expenses (15.89) (16.40)   (16.39)
    Operating Netback(1)(3) 22.70 35.37   22.19
    G&A Expenses Before Stock-Based Compensation (2.86) (3.65)   (2.75)
    Transaction Costs — —   (1.20)
    Realized Foreign Exchange Gain (Loss) (0.51) (0.49)   0.07
    Cash settlement on derivative instruments 0.10 —   0.30
    Interest Expense, Excluding Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs (4.58) (5.12)   (5.40)
    Interest Income 0.10 0.23   0.34
    Other Gain — —   0.40
    Net Lease Payments 0.04 0.12   0.07
    Current Income Tax Expense (1.95) (1.33)   (2.12)
    Cash Netback(1) $13.04 $25.13   $11.90
             
    Share Information (000s)        
    Common Stock Outstanding, End of Period 35,524 31,401   35,972
    Weighted Average Number of Shares of Common Stock Outstanding – Basic and Diluted 35,777 31,813   34,333
    South American Operational Information Three Months Ended March 31,   Three Months
    Ended
    December 31,
      2025 2024   2024
    Operating Netback(1)(3)        
    Oil Sales $138,671 $157,577   $128,335
    Operating Expenses (50,827) (48,466)   (51,121)
    Transportation Expenses (4,304) (4,584)   (3,607)
    Operating Netback(1)(3) $83,540 $104,527   $73,607
             
    Average Daily Production (boe/d)        
    WI Production Before Royalties 29,686 32,242   29,695
    Royalties (5,844) (6,397)   (5,761)
    Production NAR 23,842 25,845   23,934
    Decrease (Increase) in Inventory 461 235   (712)
    Sales 24,303 26,080   23,222
    Royalties, % of WI Production Before Royalties 20% 20%   19%
             
    Operating Netback ($/boe)(1)(3)        
    Brent $74.98 $81.76   $74.01
    Quality and Transportation Discount (11.58) (15.36)   (13.94)
    Royalties (12.29) (13.08)   (11.94)
    Average Realized Price 51.11 53.32   48.13
    Transportation Expenses (1.59) (1.55)   (1.35)
    Average Realized Price Net of Transportation Expenses 49.52 51.77   46.78
    Operating Expenses (18.73) (16.40)   (19.17)
    Operating Netback(1)(3) $30.79 $35.37   $27.61
    Canadian Operational Information(4) Three Months Ended March 31,   Three Months
    Ended
    December 31,
      2025 2024   2024
    Operating Netback(1)(3)        
    Oil Sales $21,269 $—   $14,832
    Natural Gas Sales 7,561 —   3,546
    NGL Sales 7,997 —   4,193
    Royalties (4,966) —   (3,616)
    Oil, Natural Gas and NGL Sales After Royalties $31,862 $—   $18,955
    Operating Expenses (16,527) —   (9,649)
    Transportation Expenses (2,607) —   (672)
    Operating Netback(1)(3) $12,728 $—   $8,634
             
    Average Daily Production        
    Crude Oil (bbl/d) 3,623 —   2,461
    Natural Gas (mcf/d) 49,860 —   32,814
    NGLs (bbl/d) 5,029 —   3,383
    WI Production Before Royalties (boe/d) 16,961 —   11,314
    Royalties (boe/d) (2,240) —   (1,566)
    Production NAR (boe/d) 14,721 —   9,748
    Sales (boe/d) 14,721 —   9,748
    Royalties, % of WI Production Before Royalties 13% —%   14%
             
    Benchmark Prices        
    West Texas Intermediate ($/bbl) 71.47 77.01   70.42
    AECO Natural Gas Price (C$/GJ) 2.05 1.70   1.56
             
    Average Realized Price        
    Crude Oil ($/bbl) 65.23 —   65.50
    Natural Gas ($/mcf) 1.69 —   1.17
    NGLs ($/bbl) 17.67 —   13.47
             
    Operating Netback ($/boe)(1)(3)        
    Average Realized Price $24.12 $—   $21.69
    Royalties (3.25) —   (3.47)
    Transportation Expenses (1.71) —   (0.65)
    Operating Expenses (10.83) —   (9.27)
    Operating Netback(1)(3) $8.33 $—   $8.30

    (1)Funds flow from operations, operating netback, net debt, cash netback, earnings before interest, taxes and depletion, depreciation and accretion (“DD&A”) (“EBITDA”) and EBITDA adjusted for non-cash lease expense, lease payments, foreign exchange gains or losses, stock-based compensation expense, other gains or losses, transaction costs and financial instruments gains or losses (“Adjusted EBITDA”), cash flow and free cash flow are non-GAAP measures and do not have standardized meanings under generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”). Cash flow refers to funds flow from operations. Free cash flow refers to funds flow from operations less capital expenditures. Refer to “Non-GAAP Measures” in this press release for descriptions of these non-GAAP measures and, where applicable, reconciliations to the most directly comparable measures calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP.
    (2) Gran Tierra’s second quarter-to-date 2025 total average differentials and average production are for the period from April 1 to April 30, 2025.
    (3) Operating netback as presented is defined as oil sales less operating and transportation expenses. See the table titled Financial and Operational Highlights above for the components of consolidated operating netback and corresponding reconciliation.
    (4) Gran Tierra entered Canada with the acquisition of i3 Energy which closed October 31, 2024, therefore no comparative data is provided for the corresponding period of 2024.

    Conference Call Information:

    Gran Tierra will host its first quarter 2025 results conference call on Friday, May 2, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. Mountain Time, 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time. Interested parties may access the conference call by registering at the following link: https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BI0f6a1e0b01bd474992543eb3e6d51c71. The call will also be available via webcast at www.grantierra.com.

    2024 Sustainability Report:

    Gran Tierra has published its 2024 Sustainability Report and is available on the Company website at www.grantierra.com/esg.

    Corporate Presentation:

    Gran Tierra’s Corporate Presentation has been updated and is available on the Company website at www.grantierra.com.

    Contact Information

    For investor and media inquiries please contact:

    Gary Guidry
    President & Chief Executive Officer

    Ryan Ellson
    Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    +1-403-265-3221

    info@grantierra.com

    About Gran Tierra Energy Inc.
    Gran Tierra Energy Inc. together with its subsidiaries is an independent international energy company currently focused on oil and natural gas exploration and production in Canada, Colombia and Ecuador. The Company is currently developing its existing portfolio of assets in Canada, Colombia and Ecuador and will continue to pursue additional new growth opportunities that would further strengthen the Company’s portfolio. The Company’s common stock trades on the NYSE American, the Toronto Stock Exchange and the London Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol GTE. Additional information concerning Gran Tierra is available at www.grantierra.com. Except to the extent expressly stated otherwise, information on the Company’s website or accessible from our website or any other website is not incorporated by reference into and should not be considered part of this press release. Investor inquiries may be directed to info@grantierra.com or (403) 265-3221.

    Gran Tierra’s Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) filings are available on the SEC website at http://www.sec.gov. The Company’s Canadian securities regulatory filings are available on SEDAR+ at http://www.sedarplus.ca and UK regulatory filings are available on the National Storage Mechanism website at https://data.fca.org.uk/#/nsm/nationalstoragemechanism.

    Forward Looking Statements and Legal Advisories:
    This press release contains opinions, forecasts, projections, and other statements about future events or results that constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and financial outlook and forward looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws (collectively, “forward-looking statements”). All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this press release regarding our business strategy, plans and objectives of our management for future operations, capital spending plans and benefits of the changes in our capital program or expenditures, our liquidity and financial condition, and those statements preceded by, followed by or that otherwise include the words “expect,” “plan,” “can,” “will,” “should,” “guidance,” “forecast,” “budget,” “estimate,” “signal,” “progress” and “believes,” derivations thereof and similar terms identify forward-looking statements. In particular, but without limiting the foregoing, this press release contains forward-looking statements regarding: the Company’s leverage ratio target, the Company’s plans regarding strategic investments, acquisitions, including the anticipated benefits and operating synergies expected from the acquisition of i3 Energy, and growth, the Company’s drilling program and capital expenditures and the Company’s expectations of commodity prices, including future gas pricing in Canada, exploration and production trends and its positioning for 2024. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release reflect several material factors and expectations and assumptions of Gran Tierra including, without limitation, that Gran Tierra will continue to conduct its operations in a manner consistent with its current expectations, pricing and cost estimates (including with respect to commodity pricing and exchange rates), the ability of Gran Tierra to successfully integrate the assets and operations of i3 Energy or realize the anticipated benefits and operating synergies expected from the acquisition of i3 Energy, the general continuance of assumed operational, regulatory and industry conditions in Canada, Colombia and Ecuador, and the ability of Gran Tierra to execute its business and operational plans in the manner currently planned.

    Among the important factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to: certain of our operations are located in South America and unexpected problems can arise due to guerilla activity, strikes, local blockades or protests; technical difficulties and operational difficulties may arise which impact the production, transport or sale of our products; other disruptions to local operations; global health events; global and regional changes in the demand, supply, prices, differentials or other market conditions affecting oil and gas, including inflation and changes resulting from actual or anticipated tariffs and trade policies, global health crises, geopolitical events, including the conflicts in Ukraine and the Gaza region, or from the imposition or lifting of crude oil production quotas or other actions that might be imposed by OPEC and other producing countries and the resulting company or third-party actions in response to such changes; changes in commodity prices, including volatility or a prolonged decline in these prices relative to historical or future expected levels; the risk that current global economic and credit conditions may impact oil prices and oil consumption more than we currently predict, which could cause further modification of our strategy and capital spending program; prices and markets for oil and natural gas are unpredictable and volatile; the effect of hedges; the accuracy of productive capacity of any particular field; geographic, political and weather conditions can impact the production, transport or sale of our products; our ability to execute our business plan, which may include acquisitions, and realize expected benefits from current or future initiatives; the risk that unexpected delays and difficulties in developing currently owned properties may occur; the ability to replace reserves and production and develop and manage reserves on an economically viable basis; the accuracy of testing and production results and seismic data, pricing and cost estimates (including with respect to commodity pricing and exchange rates); the risk profile of planned exploration activities; the effects of drilling down-dip; the effects of waterflood and multi-stage fracture stimulation operations; the extent and effect of delivery disruptions, equipment performance and costs; actions by third parties; the timely receipt of regulatory or other required approvals for our operating activities; the failure of exploratory drilling to result in commercial wells; unexpected delays due to the limited availability of drilling equipment and personnel; volatility or declines in the trading price of our common stock or bonds; the risk that we do not receive the anticipated benefits of government programs, including government tax refunds; our ability to access debt or equity capital markets from time to time to raise additional capital, increase liquidity, fund acquisitions or refinance debt; our ability to comply with financial covenants in our indentures and make borrowings under our credit agreements; and the risk factors detailed from time to time in Gran Tierra’s periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including, without limitation, under the caption “Risk Factors” in Gran Tierra’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 filed February 20, 2024 and its other filings with the SEC. These filings are available on the SEC website at http://www.sec.gov and on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

    The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based on certain assumptions made by Gran Tierra based on management’s experience and other factors believed to be appropriate. Gran Tierra believes these assumptions to be reasonable at this time, but the forward-looking statements are subject to risk and uncertainties, many of which are beyond Gran Tierra’s control, which may cause actual results to differ materially from those implied or expressed by the forward looking statements. The risk that the assumptions on which the 2024 outlook are based prove incorrect may increase the later the period to which the outlook relates. All forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this press release and the fact that this press release remains available does not constitute a representation by Gran Tierra that Gran Tierra believes these forward-looking statements continue to be true as of any subsequent date. Actual results may vary materially from the expected results expressed in forward-looking statements. Gran Tierra disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable law. In addition, historical, current and forward-looking sustainability-related statements may be based on standards for measuring progress that are still developing, internal controls and processes that continue to evolve, and assumptions that are subject to change in the future.

    The estimates of future production (aggregate and per country), EBITDA, net cash provided by operating activities (described in this press release as “cash flow”), free cash flow, certain prices and expenses (aggregate and per country) and operating netback (aggregate and per country) may be considered to be future-oriented financial information or a financial outlook for the purposes of applicable Canadian securities laws. Financial outlook and future-oriented financial information contained in this press release about prospective financial performance, financial position or cash flows are provided to give the reader a better understanding of the potential future performance of the Company in certain areas and are based on assumptions about future events, including economic conditions and proposed courses of action, based on management’s assessment of the relevant information currently available, and to become available in the future. In particular, this press release contains projected operational and financial information for 2025. These projections contain forward-looking statements and are based on a number of material assumptions and factors set out above. Actual results may differ significantly from the projections presented herein. The actual results of Gran Tierra’s operations for any period could vary from the amounts set forth in these projections, and such variations may be material. See above for a discussion of the risks that could cause actual results to vary. The future-oriented financial information and financial outlooks contained in this press release have been approved by management as of the date of this press release. Readers are cautioned that any such financial outlook and future-oriented financial information contained herein should not be used for purposes other than those for which it is disclosed herein. The Company and its management believe that the prospective financial information has been prepared on a reasonable basis, reflecting management’s best estimates and judgments, and represent, to the best of management’s knowledge and opinion, the Company’s expected course of action. However, because this information is highly subjective, it should not be relied on as necessarily indicative of future results.

    Non-GAAP Measures

    This press release includes non-GAAP financial measures as further described herein. These non-GAAP measures do not have a standardized meaning under GAAP. Investors are cautioned that these measures should not be construed as alternatives to net income or loss, cash flow from operating activities or other measures of financial performance as determined in accordance with GAAP. Gran Tierra’s method of calculating these measures may differ from other companies and, accordingly, they may not be comparable to similar measures used by other companies. Each non-GAAP financial measure is presented along with the corresponding GAAP measure so as to not imply that more emphasis should be placed on the non-GAAP measure.

    Operating netback, as presented, is defined as oil sales less operating and transportation expenses. See the table entitled Financial and Operational Highlights above for the components of consolidated operating netback and corresponding reconciliation.

    Cash netback as presented is defined as net income or loss adjusted for DD&A expenses, deferred tax expense or recovery, stock-based compensation expense or recovery, amortization of debt issuance costs, non-cash lease expense, lease payments, unrealized foreign exchange gain or loss, other gain or loss and unrealized derivative instruments loss. Management believes that operating netback and cash netback are useful supplemental measures for investors to analyze financial performance and provide an indication of the results generated by Gran Tierra’s principal business activities prior to the consideration of other income and expenses. A reconciliation from net income or loss to cash netback is as follows:

      Three Months Ended March 31,   Three Months
    Ended
    December 31,
    Cash Netback – (Non-GAAP) Measure ($000s)   2025     2024       2024  
    Net Loss $ (19,280 ) $ (78 )   $ (34,210 )
    Adjustments to reconcile net loss to cash netback        
    DD&A expenses   72,202     56,150       63,406  
    Deferred tax (recovery) expense   (4,712 )   13,479       4,444  
    Stock-based compensation (recovery) expense   (517 )   3,361       3,331  
    Amortization of debt issuance costs   3,833     3,306       3,743  
    Non-cash lease expense   1,736     1,413       1,759  
    Lease payments   (1,567 )   (1,058 )     (1,495 )
    Unrealized foreign exchange loss (gain)   1,687     (2,266 )     (223 )
    Other loss   52     —       —  
    Unrealized derivative instrument loss   1,910     —       3,374  
    Cash netback $ 55,344   $ 74,307     $ 44,129  

    EBITDA, as presented, is defined as net income or loss adjusted for DD&A expenses, interest expense and income tax expense or recovery. Adjusted EBITDA, as presented, is defined as EBITDA adjusted for non-cash lease expense, lease payments, foreign exchange gain or loss, stock-based compensation expense, transaction costs, other gain or loss and unrealized derivative instruments loss. Management uses this supplemental measure to analyze performance and income generated by our principal business activities prior to the consideration of how non-cash items affect that income, and believes that this financial measure is useful supplemental information for investors to analyze our performance and our financial results. A reconciliation from net income or loss to EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA is as follows:

      Three Months Ended March 31,   Three Months
    Ended
    December 31,
    EBITDA – (Non-GAAP) Measure ($000s)   2025     2024       2024  
    Net Loss $ (19,280 ) $ (78 )   $ (34,210 )
    Adjustments to reconcile net loss to EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA        
    DD&A expenses   72,202     56,150       63,406  
    Interest expense   23,235     18,424       23,752  
    Income tax expense   3,553     17,395       12,299  
    EBITDA $ 79,710   $ 91,891     $ 65,247  
    Non-cash lease expense   1,736     1,413       1,759  
    Lease payments   (1,567 )   (1,058 )     (1,495 )
    Foreign exchange loss (gain)   3,838     (815 )     (496 )
    Stock-based compensation expense   (517 )   3,361       3,331  
    Transaction costs   —     —       4,448  
    Other loss   52     —       —  
    Unrealized derivative instrument loss   1,910     —       3,374  
    Adjusted EBITDA $ 85,162   $ 94,792     $ 76,168  

    Funds flow from operations, as presented, is defined as net income or loss adjusted for DD&A expenses, deferred tax expense or recovery, stock-based compensation expense, amortization of debt issuance costs, non-cash lease expense, lease payments, unrealized foreign exchange gain, other gain or loss and unrealized gain or loss on derivative instruments. Management uses this financial measure to analyze performance and income or loss generated by our principal business activities prior to the consideration of how non-cash items affect that income or loss, and believes that this financial measure is also useful supplemental information for investors to analyze performance and our financial results. Free cash flow, as presented, is defined as funds flow from operations adjusted for capital expenditures. Management uses this financial measure to analyze cash flow generated by our principal business activities after capital requirements and believes that this financial measure is also useful supplemental information for investors to analyze performance and our financial results. A reconciliation from net income or loss to both funds flow from operations and free cash flow is as follows:

      Three Months Ended March 31,   Three Months
    Ended
    December 31,
    Funds Flow From Operations –
    (Non-GAAP) Measure ($000s)    		   2025     2024       2024  
    Net Loss $ (19,280 ) $ (78 )   $ (34,210 )
    Adjustments to reconcile net loss to funds flow from operations        
    DD&A expenses   72,202     56,150       63,406  
    Deferred tax (recovery) expense   (4,712 )   13,479       4,444  
    Stock-based compensation (recovery) expense   (517 )   3,361       3,331  
    Amortization of debt issuance costs   3,833     3,306       3,743  
    Non-cash lease expense   1,736     1,413       1,759  
    Lease payments   (1,567 )   (1,058 )     (1,495 )
    Unrealized foreign exchange loss (gain)   1,687     (2,266 )     (223 )
    Other loss   52     —       —  
    Unrealized derivative instrument loss   1,910     —       3,374  
    Funds flow from operations $ 55,344   $ 74,307     $ 44,129  
    Capital expenditures $ 94,727   $ 55,331     $ 78,579  
    Free cash flow $ (39,383 ) $ 18,976     $ (34,450 )

    Net debt as of March 31, 2025, was $683 million, calculated using the sum of the aggregate principal amount of 7.75% Senior Notes, and 9.50% Senior Notes outstanding, excluding deferred financing fees, totaling $760 million, less cash and cash equivalents of $77 million.

    Presentation of Oil and Gas Information

    Boes have been converted on the basis of six thousand cubic feet (“Mcf”) natural gas to 1 boe of oil. Boes may be misleading, particularly if used in isolation. A boe conversion ratio of 6 Mcf: 1 boe is based on an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead. In addition, given that the value ratio based on the current price of oil as compared with natural gas is significantly different from the energy equivalent of six to one, utilizing a boe conversion ratio of 6 Mcf: 1 boe would be misleading as an indication of value.

    References to a formation where evidence of hydrocarbons has been encountered is not necessarily an indicator that hydrocarbons will be recoverable in commercial quantities or in any estimated volume. Gran Tierra’s reported production is a mix of light crude oil and medium heavy crude oil, tight oil, conventional natural gas, shale gas and natural gas liquids for which there is no precise breakdown since the Company’s sales volumes typically represent blends of more than one product type. Well test results should be considered as preliminary and not necessarily indicative of long-term performance or of ultimate recovery. Well log interpretations indicating oil and gas accumulations are not necessarily indicative of future production or ultimate recovery. If it is indicated that a pressure transient analysis or well-test interpretation has not been carried out, any data disclosed in that respect should be considered preliminary until such analysis has been completed. References to thickness of “oil pay” or of a formation where evidence of hydrocarbons has been encountered is not necessarily an indicator that hydrocarbons will be recoverable in commercial quantities or in any estimated volume.

    This press release contains certain oil and gas metrics, including operating netback and cash netback, which do not have standardized meanings or standard methods of calculation and therefore such measures may not be comparable to similar measures used by other companies and should not be used to make comparisons. These metrics are calculated as described in this press release and management believes that they are useful supplemental measures for the reasons described in this press release.

    Such metrics have been included herein to provide readers with additional measures to evaluate the Company’s performance; however, such measures are not reliable indicators of the future performance of the Company and future performance may not compare to the performance in previous periods.

    References in this press release to “potential drilling opportunities” are references to unbooked locations for which there are no reserves or resources attributed by any of the Company’s qualified reserves auditors or evaluators but which the Company internally estimates can be drilled based on current land holdings, industry practice regarding well density, and internal review of geologic, geophysical, seismic, engineering, production and resources information. There is no certainty that the Company will drill any particular locations, or that drilling activity on any locations will result in additional reserves, resources or production. Locations on which the Company in fact drills wells will ultimately depend upon the availability of capital, regulatory approvals, seasonal restrictions, commodity prices, costs, actual drilling results, additional reservoir information and other factors. There is a higher level of risk associated with locations that are potential drilling opportunities and not “booked” locations to which any qualified reserves evaluator or auditor may have attributed reserves or resources. The Company generally has less information about reservoir characteristics associated with locations that are potential drilling opportunities and, accordingly, there is greater uncertainty whether wells will ultimately be drilled in such locations and, if drilled, whether they will result in additional reserves, resources or production.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Kayne Anderson Energy Infrastructure Fund Provides Unaudited Balance Sheet Information and Announces Its Net Asset Value and Asset Coverage Ratios as of April 30, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, May 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kayne Anderson Energy Infrastructure Fund, Inc. (the “Company”) (NYSE: KYN) today provided a summary unaudited statement of assets and liabilities and announced its net asset value and asset coverage ratios under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”) as of April 30, 2025.

    As of April 30, 2025, the Company’s net assets were $2.3 billion, and its net asset value per share was $13.50. As of April 30, 2025, the Company’s asset coverage ratio under the 1940 Act with respect to senior securities representing indebtedness was 713% and the Company’s asset coverage ratio under the 1940 Act with respect to total leverage (debt and preferred stock) was 515%.

     STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
    APRIL 30, 2025   // (UNAUDITED)
     
        (in millions)
    Investments   $ 3,131.2  
    Cash and cash equivalents     3.1  
    Accrued income     9.7  
    Other assets     1.0  
    Total assets     3,145.0  
         
    Credit facility     9.0  
    Notes     388.2  
    Unamortized notes issuance costs     (2.5 )
    Preferred stock     153.6  
    Unamortized preferred stock issuance costs     (1.2 )
    Total leverage     547.1  
         
    Payable for securities purchased     7.5  
    Other liabilities     13.7  
    Current tax liability, net     6.2  
    Deferred tax liability, net     287.2  
    Total liabilities     314.6  
         
    Net assets   $ 2,283.3  
         

    The Company had 169,126,038 common shares outstanding as of April 30, 2025.

    Long-term investments were comprised of Midstream Energy Companies (95%), Utility Companies (2%) and Other (3%).  

    The Company’s ten largest holdings by issuer at April 30, 2025 were:

          Amount
    (in millions)    		 % Long Term
    Investments
    1. The Williams Companies, Inc. (Midstream Energy Company)   $348.1   11.1 %
    2. MPLX LP (Midstream Energy Company)     308.2   9.8 %
    3. Enterprise Products Partners L.P. (Midstream Energy Company)     304.3   9.7 %
    4. Energy Transfer LP (Midstream Energy Company)     302.2   9.7 %
    5. Cheniere Energy, Inc. (Midstream Energy Company)     260.2   8.3 %
    6. Kinder Morgan, Inc. (Midstream Energy Company)     202.0   6.5 %
    7. ONEOK, Inc. (Midstream Energy Company)     177.9   5.7 %
    8. TC Energy Corporation (Midstream Energy Company)     166.9   5.3 %
    9. Targa Resources Corp. (Midstream Energy Company)     165.0   5.3 %
    10. Western Midstream Partners, LP (Midstream Energy Company)     130.8   4.2 %

    Portfolio holdings are subject to change without notice. The mention of specific securities is not a recommendation or solicitation for any person to buy, sell or hold any particular security. You can obtain a complete listing of holdings by viewing the Company’s most recent quarterly or annual report.

    Kayne Anderson Energy Infrastructure Fund, Inc. (NYSE: KYN) is a non-diversified, closed-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, whose common stock is traded on the NYSE. The Company’s investment objective is to provide a high after-tax total return with an emphasis on making cash distributions to stockholders. KYN intends to achieve this objective by investing at least 80% of its total assets in securities of Energy Infrastructure Companies. See Glossary of Key Terms in the Company’s most recent quarterly report for a description of these investment categories and the meaning of capitalized terms.

    This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation to buy, nor shall there be any sale of any securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer or sale is not permitted. Nothing contained in this press release is intended to recommend any investment policy or investment strategy or consider any investor’s specific objectives or circumstances. Before investing, please consult with your investment, tax, or legal adviser regarding your individual circumstances.

    CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS: This communication contains statements reflecting assumptions, expectations, projections, intentions, or beliefs about future events. These and other statements not relating strictly to historical or current facts constitute forward-looking statements as defined under the U.S. federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements involve a variety of risks and uncertainties. These risks include but are not limited to changes in economic and political conditions; regulatory and legal changes; energy industry risk; leverage risk; valuation risk; interest rate risk; tax risk; and other risks discussed in detail in the Company’s filings with the SEC, available at www.kaynefunds.com or www.sec.gov. Actual events could differ materially from these statements or our present expectations or projections. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date they are made. Kayne Anderson undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements made herein. There is no assurance that the Company’s investment objectives will be attained.

    Contact investor relations at 877-657-3863 or cef@kayneanderson.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Lummis Speaks on Senate Floor About First 100 “Transformational” Days of the Trump Administration

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming Cynthia Lummis

    Washington, D.C. — This week, Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) took to the Senate floor to highlight the completion of President Trump’s first 100 “transformational” days back in office. In the remarks, Senator Lummis discusses how President Trump has revitalized American energy independence, cut wasteful government spending, supported innovative digital asset policies, protected female sports, and restored America’s rightful leadership position around the world.

    Watch and listen to Senator Lummis’ remarks here.

    A transcript of Senator Lummis’ remarks is below:  

    ——–

    “Mr. President – Today, President Trump completes his first 100 days of his return to the White House. And it’s been nothing short of transformational. 

    “Under President Trump and Vice President Vance’s leadership, we are witnessing the rapid implementation of campaign promises that are already reshaping America’s policy landscape. 

    “When I go home to Wyoming each weekend, people approach me everywhere – from restaurants to the feed store – eager to discuss the positive changes happening in Washington. The overwhelming sentiment is enthusiasm for what President Trump is accomplishing for everyday Americans.

    “For example, on day one, President Trump, restored the dignity of men and women as biologically distinct sexes. It is hard to believe he had to do that, but indeed he did. One of the administration’s first major actions was signing an executive order directing federal agencies to recognize biological sex in athletic competition. The left spent the past four years gaslighting Americans and making the failed argument that biological males should now be competing in women’s sports in the name of “fairness.” Within a few weeks of taking office, President Trump tackled this issue and made it clear that this administration won’t support the left’s attacks on female athletes. 

    “I believe this is the women’s rights issue of our time, and I’m grateful for President Trump’s leadership. For some people my age we spent so many years trying to exercise our rights under Title IX and other rights to recognize women’s rights only to have them swept under the rug and disregarded by the left, requiring that women not only compete against men but have them in their locker rooms in what were uncomfortable and sometimes unsafe circumstances. President Trump recognized this and thankfully he has put that issue to rest for a while.

    “President Trump is also delivering on his promise to unleash American energy dominance. A few weeks ago, I joined President Trump and some of my colleagues at the White House for his signing of an executive order that starts to reverse the Biden and Obama administrations’ anti-coal agenda. For energy states like Wyoming, the official lifting of the unconstitutional coal moratorium represents a significant economic opportunity for western states. 

    “By removing unnecessary restrictions on energy extraction, the administration has signaled its commitment to blue-collar jobs, cheaper energy for American families, and a new era of energy dominance. Joe Biden and his administration did not care about the impact of their regulations on working-class people; the Trump administration does care, and they are continuing to take actions that will help Americans and our amazing energy communities. Wyoming exports 12 times more energy than it consumes and much of that is in the form of hydrocarbons. Each and every year for years after the Clean Air Act passed, we were producing more energy and producing cleaner air. These things can happen simultaneously and it’s because of yankee ingenuity, it’s because we know how to do things better, all the time. We don’t have to accept the status quo when it comes to energy dominance. They were certain things in the Biden Administration that forced something called “environmental justice” an absolutely trumped up, dreamed up, idea that we can’t have clean energy and abundant energy at the same time. That’s a totally wrong-headed approach to what has always been a great American tradition of ingenuity and entrepreneurs who can take a problem and solve it. There is such a thing as clean air that can be produced from coal and natural gas, in particular. I am proud that my state is part of that, I am proud that President Trump recognizes it and that he has taken steps to restore our statutory ability to produce both clean air and abundant hydrocarbon energy simultaneously.  

    “Perhaps the most dramatic turnaround has been at the southern border. Where the Biden administration created chaos, President Trump, has restored order. Through multiple executive actions – signing the Laken Riley Act, ending “catch-and-release,” reimplementing “remain in Mexico,” and more—we’ve seen border encounters plummet from nearly 380,000 in February and March last year to just 22,000 plus a few during the same period this year.

    “The people of Wyoming are grateful to have a president who cares about securing our border and deporting those who are not here legally. Especially those from gangs that are causing unsafe communities, horrible crimes perpetuated on the American people, all unnecessarily if we’d only followed the laws that were in existence and the statutes that were in existence all along. Those laws that President Biden ignored and that President Trump is following and implementing.

    “For decades, America’s leaders have failed our country when it comes to fiscal responsibility. We in this very chamber are partly responsible for that.

    “Our $36 trillion national debt represents a real and present threat to America’s future. We all know it’s unsustainable and yet after COVID, we never went back to pre-covid spending levels. We have kept spending at post-covid highs, even though the money spent during the COVID years is no longer necessary in our now more growing and robust post-covid economy. Most taxpayers don’t realize their hard-earned dollars primarily service this massive debt through interest payments rather than funding national defense and essential services. That’s why I strongly support President Trump’s creation of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). It was done through a provision in Obamacare and it’s subsequent ability to gain efficiencies through efforts that computers can assist us with. Nobody knows better how to do it than people who have voluntarily participated through their expertise and ability to identify waste, fraud, and abuse using the Department of Government Efficiency and their remarkable skills with computers to ferret out waste, fraud, and abuse.

    “Elon Musk and the DOGE team have already identified a huge number of wasteful and abusive expenditures that don’t benefit American families. All of us should be proud, in both parties, that the rhetoric that we used over the years that we are going to pay for things by ferreting out waste, fraud, and abuse and then after elected don’t even try to find waste, fraud, and abuse has finally come to an end. Elon Musk and his team have found true waste, fraud, and abuse in government and is identifying it so cabinet secretaries can deal with it in their respective agencies. That is exactly the kind of fiscal discipline that we value in Wyoming, that we all should value as Americans. 

    “After years of the Biden administration’s unbridled hostility toward digital assets and cryptocurrency, President Trump is fulfilling his promise to lead the most pro-digital asset administration in history. And I could not be more proud. We know that we are moving into a digital future, a digital economy. It is something that we should embrace, it’s something that we can include into a new modern 21st century economy. It is not something to fear. But it is something that cries for consumer protections and our incredible ability that we have as agencies to disclose matters that should be disclosed to investors and to allow innovation where it makes our ability to do business internationally faster, cheaper, and more responsible through the ledgers of blockchain incredible abilities to send money all over the world fast and inexpensively. This helps regular everyday Americans avoid the tremendous friction that’s in the banking system that costs taxpayers money and it costs taxpayers time and allows us to do business all over the world in a much less expensive and robust way, what a blessing to have an administration that sees the future in this way, that understands the innovation that is at our fingertips that we can use to go forward in a true 21st century digital economy. I am particularly pleased with President Trump’s support for my Strategic Bitcoin Reserve initiative, which will address our national debt while securing America’s position as the global leader in financial innovation. As Bitcoin comes into more usage, it’s use makes the whole system more secure, more robust, and more capable of serving our needs all over the world. We should be the global leader of this fantastic new ledger-based asset that is in a digital format that is going to be transformative of everyday economy and puts the everyday American, in fact, the everyday worker all over the world in control of their own money. What a wonderful blessing for hardworking people all over the world to have this great new technology and to have America lead the way in implementing this wonderful, wonderful innovation.

    “Here in the Senate, we have confirmed 54 of President Trump’s cabinet and sub-cabinet nominees. It has required some long hours, many in the middle of the night must to our consternation, but our work is far from complete.

    “The Democrats’ agenda threatens to impose crushing tax increases on hardworking Wyoming families and our local small businesses. If the tax cuts that were implemented under President Trump’s first administration allow to expire, it will create the largest tax increase in history at a time when businesses need the innovation that allows our economy to grow. That can come from a robust and fair tax system. This is something that I look forward to assisting my colleagues in this body to implement in a permanent form and using our current standard practices. 

    “Following years of punishing inflation under the Biden administration, our communities and working families cannot shoulder any additional financial strain. Keeping our tax code as is and making it permanent is yet another way of implementing advantages to local working economies. It also just delights me that President Trump identified just real working Americans who are struggling to make ends meet, who are living paycheck to paycheck, and tried to identify ways to tax advantage their lives. For example, no tax on tips, no tax on social security, no tax on overtime hours, these are things for regular, everyday working people. Some people alleged that President Trump is trying to help his billionaire buddies, I’m not seeing that at all. I’m seeing a President that really gets the everyday working American and wants to make sure that as they live paycheck to paycheck and try to plan for their families that there is some relief in store with regard to his proposals for taxes. 

    “These first 100 days of President Trump’s return to office represent just the opening chapter of America’s Golden Era. Already, his administration has made remarkable progress – securing our southern border, revitalizing American energy independence, cutting wasteful government spending, supporting innovative digital asset policies, and restoring America’s rightful leadership position globally. We know even today that as countries are renegotiating their trade policies and tariff policies with us that there is a newfound desire to find a level playing field, reciprocal trade agreements that allow for some of our products to go into their economies in ways that acknowledge that the United States has been globally at a trade disadvantage, and to try and repair some of those long practices where the United States was participating in free trade and other countries were not. It’s time to make it all fair trade. And I applaud President Trump’s desires to do that and hopefully soon, so that we can get some of the turmoil associated with these important changes to our economy behind us and restore stability in our economy in our everyday lives. 

    “I anticipate the next 100 days will bring equally significant achievements, and I feel deeply privileged to work alongside this administration, and this president. I served fourteen years in the Wyoming legislature all with Democrat governors. I have served twelve years in Congress all with Democrat presidents. This is the first time in my entire life that I have legislatively served with a president of my own party. It’s refreshing. It’s delightful. And it’s even on occasion, fun. I feel so privileged to be here with a Republican president who is delivering meaningful results to the people of Wyoming and our great nation.

    “Mr. Chairman – I yield back the floor. Thank you!”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner, Kaine, Bennet Press Defense Dept on Continued Moving Issues for Relocating Military Families

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Tim Kaine (D-VA), and Michael Bennet (D-CO) wrote to the commander of U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) General Randall Reed to follow up on their concerns that as USTRANSCOM continues to implement the Global Household Goods Contract, GHC, to streamline its relocation process, military families are experiencing delays and confusion related to the contract transition, and the remedies available to them.

    “We appreciate actions taken so far that are aimed at blunting the impacts of the GHC transition to our servicemembers and their families, which have included holding some household goods shipments in the legacy system, as well as increasing USTRANSCOM’s oversight of the HomeSafe Alliance contract performance,” wrote the senators. “We are concerned, however, that the ongoing challenges with the contract transition and the large anticipated volume of moves in the coming months will continue to result in servicemember move disruptions and delays in their moves.”

    In the letter, the senators highlighted the importance of communicating with service members about their rights during the relocation process. 

    The senators continued, “You are also likely aware that the challenges with the implementation of GHC has generated a significant amount of online discussion surrounding military moves. To help prevent confusion or misinformation regarding moves, USTRANSCOM and service Transportation Offices must increase their communication with transferring servicemembers and their families, as the Army did in January to explain changes in personally procured moves. I encourage you to take additional steps to ensure servicemember understanding of their options, rights, and remedies during this transfer season.”

    The senators also noted the impact of President Trump’s staffing cuts and hiring freezes at the Department of Defense, and requested a detailed assessment of how these moves are impacting USTRANSCOM’s operations.

    The senators concluded, “To better assess the impacts of these haphazard cuts, please provide me a report detailing the staffing structure at USTRANSCOM that supports servicemember household good moves, including the number of billets for civilian and military personnel who support the GHC transition and manage the HomeSafe Alliance contract, the number of vacancies in those billets in AY23, AY24, AY25 to date, specifically identifying any new vacancies since January 20, 2025. We are requesting the same data from each of the military branches to better assess the impacts of Secretary Hegseth and Secretary Noem’s personnel management choices on servicemembers and their families to ensure that they are managing this important issue with the urgency it demands.” 

    A copy of the letter is available here and below:

    Dear General Reed:

    We write in appreciation of our servicemembers and their families, and in continuation of my effort to support them and work with U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) on the implementation of the Global Household Goods Contract (GHC) with HomeSafe Alliance. We appreciate the continued focus from your team on remedying GHC implementation challenges, in keeping with USTRANSCOM’s commitments to our military community as they enter the permanent change of station (PCS) peak season. We will continue to monitor this PCS season and your efforts to ensure our military, and you, have what you need to undergo this transformation with minimal impact to those we serve.

    We appreciate actions taken so far that are aimed at blunting the impacts of the GHC transition to our servicemembers and their families, which have included holding some household goods shipments in the legacy system, as well as increasing USTRANSCOM’s oversight of the HomeSafe Alliance contract performance. We are concerned, however, that the ongoing challenges with the contract transition and the large anticipated volume of moves in the coming months will continue to result in servicemember move disruptions and delays in their moves. We understand that HomeSafe Alliance is required to compensate servicemembers for some of the costs they incur because of these delays.

    You are also likely aware that the challenges with the implementation of GHC has generated a significant amount of online discussion surrounding military moves. To help prevent confusion or misinformation regarding moves, USTRANSCOM and service Transportation Offices must increase their communication with transferring servicemembers and their families, as the Army did in January to explain changes in personally procured moves. We encourage you to take additional steps to ensure servicemember understanding of their options, rights, and remedies during this transfer season.

    Finally, we are concerned that recent reports of staffing cuts and hiring freezes at the Department of Defense and military services may negatively impact servicemember moves as the military heads into peak transfer season. The firings of probationary employees and other federal employees, many of whom are military spouses or veterans, have exacerbated the disruptions caused by preexisting vacancies and create new disruptions across the federal government. This heedless hobbling of complex government functions house outsized negative impacts on customer service and customer experience. To better assess the impacts of these haphazard cuts, please provide me a report detailing the staffing structure at USTRANSCOM that supports servicemember household good moves, including the number of billets for civilian and military personnel who support the GHC transition and manage the HomeSafe Alliance contract, the number of vacancies in those billets in AY23, AY24, AY25 to date, specifically identifying any new vacancies since January 20, 2025. We are requesting the same data from each of the military branches to better assess the impacts of Secretary Hegseth and Secretary Noem’s personnel management choices on servicemembers and their families to ensure that they are managing this important issue with the urgency it demands.

    We request this response by May 16, 2025. We appreciate your attention and look forward to continuing to work closely with you on this matter. Thank you for your time and consideration. should be placed.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Aid is under attack – meet Pacific community leaders implementing Kiwi funded aid – ChildFund

    Source: ChildFund New Zealand

    Join ChildFund for a special session on New Zealand’s aid in the Pacific.
    Pacific community leaders from Kiribati, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu are visiting New Zealand to talk about their projects funded by the New Zealand public and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
    Aid is under attack.
    They will be joined by geo-political experts for a frank discussion – what’s working, what’s not, and how do we navigate the volatile geo-politics in our region.
    Venue: ChildFund, 2 Kitchener St, Level 3, Auckland CBD, 1010
    Date: Wednesday 7 May
    Time: 4pm-5:30pm (nibbles and drinks provided)
    Join us for a spirited discussion:
    Sharon Inone – National Geographic Society’s Explorer of the Year. CEO of Greenergy Pacific, a community organisation leading development and climate projects in Temotu Province, Solomon Islands. Sharon came home after working at the United Nations in New York, because she ‘wanted to get things done faster’ and bring clean water to the island where she grew up.
    Teima Onorio – Country Director of ChildFund Kiribati. Leads water and food security projects in one of the world’s most climate-vulnerable nations, plus projects to up-skill young people. Teima works closely with the Kiribati government.
    Robert Oliver – Global Executive Director and host of Pacific Island Food Revolution. Robert’s ‘Masterchef’ type TV show promoted healthy local food, and has helped lower rates of non-communicable-diseases in the Pacific. Robert’s new TV projects will focus on supply chains and markets for Pacific food.
    Joanna Bourke – CEO of Pacific Cooperation Foundation, an organisation that amplifies Pacific voices, and builds partnerships between government, business, and communities. With a background in tourism, international trade, and Pacific development, Joanna brings business and community together, both in New Zealand and the Pacific.
    Josie Pagani – CEO of ChildFund with more than 25 years’ experience in development and politics. Also, a geo-political media commentator with a fortnightly column in the Post.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health – Sydney to host major surgical event focused on innovation and excellence

    Source: Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS)

    Sydney will host one of the largest surgical conferences in the southern hemisphere when the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) brings its 93rd Annual Scientific Congress (ASC) to the International Convention Centre from Saturday 3 to Tuesday 6 May 2025.

    This year’s theme, Innovation. Precision. Excellence., reflects the event’s future-focused program and its role as a key connection and collaboration point for surgeons across all nine RACS specialties.

    More than 1600 surgeons, Trainees and healthcare leaders from Australia, Aotearoa New Zealand and beyond are expected to attend, with 253 new Fellows – the largest cohort in recent years – to be formally welcomed at the Convocation Ceremony on Saturday evening.

    “ASC 2025 is designed to inspire and challenge,” says congress convener Professor Henry Woo.

    “It’s a chance for surgeons to connect across specialties and geographies, hear from international leaders, and explore how innovation and leadership are shaping the future of care—from operating theatres to entire health systems.”

    This year’s program puts a spotlight on cross-disciplinary collaboration, with sessions covering robotics and AI in surgery, rural surgical innovation, Indigenous health, and leadership development.

    Event highlights include:

    Dr Glaucomflecken (Dr Will Flanary), a US ophthalmologist and viral medical comedian, presenting Dr Glaucomflecken’s incredibly uplifting and really fun guide to American healthcare on Sunday 4 May at 4pm. A cancer survivor and healthcare satirist, Dr Glaucomflecken brings a unique dual perspective as both clinician and patient. This ticketed plenary session is open to the general public.
    A surgical affair: question time with Tony Jones, a high-profile panel session chaired by veteran journalist Tony Jones, follows directly after. The discussion will tackle elective surgery waitlists and workforce challenges, with panellists including Australian Medical Council President Dr Danielle McMullen, NSW Parliamentary Secretary for Health Dr Michael Holland MP, and Queensland Health Chief Medical Officer Associate Professor Catherine McDougall.

    The Congress also features a strong line-up of international speakers:

    • Dr Callisia Clarke (USA) on diversity and political division in healthcare.
    • Dr Doug Anderson (USA) on the future of xenotransplantation.
    • Dr Ian Currie (UK) on innovations in organ donation and retrieval.
    • Dr Stephen Wexner (USA), one of the most cited colorectal surgeons globally.
    • Professor Hyung Seok Park (South Korea) on robotic breast surgery.

    RACS ASC is recognised as the College’s flagship educational event and one of the most significant surgical meetings in the region. It showcases the latest in surgical research, innovation and practice, while providing a platform for shared learning, professional connection and leadership.

    Media are welcome to attend keynote sessions, speaker interviews and selected panels.

    Find out more about the RACS ASC: RACS Annual Scientific Congress: https://asc.surgeons.org

    About the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS)

    RACS is the leading advocate for surgical standards, professionalism and surgical education in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand. The College is a not-for-profit organisation that represents more than 8000 surgeons and 1300 surgical trainees and Specialist International Medical Graduates. RACS also supports healthcare and surgical education in the Asia-Pacific region and is a substantial funder of surgical research. There are nine surgical specialties in Australasia being: Cardiothoracic Surgery, General Surgery, Neurosurgery, Orthopaedic Surgery, Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Paediatric Surgery, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Urology and Vascular Surgery. www.surgeons.org

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Risch Introduces Legislation to Overhaul Federal Regulations, Cut Red Tape

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho James E Risch
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho) today introduced the Zero-Based Regulations Act to cut red tape and protect taxpayer dollars by requiring annual zero-based reviews of all federal regulations.
    “Idahoans are fed up with heavy-handed federal regulations stifling our freedoms,” said Risch. “The Zero-Based Regulations Act forces federal agencies to cut the overreaching, unnecessary rules that no longer serve the people and reduce the regulatory burden on hardworking Americans.”
    Risch is joined by U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) in introducing the legislation.
    The Zero-Based Regulations Act would:

    Implement a “zero-based” standard where repealing regulations is the default;

    Require federal agencies to review 20% of their regulations annually and the entire regulatory structure every five years;

    Require agencies to justify, simplify, and reduce the cost of any rule by at least 30% to be reauthorized; and

    Prohibit agencies from implementing new rules unless certain conditions are met.

    For too long, unelected bureaucrats have issued excessive and overreaching rules, ballooning the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations to nearly 200,000 pages. This unnecessary red tape stifles innovation, impedes economic growth, and inflicts significant regulatory burdens on everyday Americans and businesses.
    The Zero-Based Regulations Act is modeled after the State of Idaho’s successful zero-based regulation effort, spearheaded by Governor Brad Little and made permanent in 2023. Since 2019, Idaho has cut or simplified 95% of its regulations, earning the title of least regulated state in the country for six years.
    “Idaho leads the nation in cutting red tape, and President Trump’s return to the White House is bringing a renewed focus on getting the federal government to follow Idaho’s lead. I appreciate Senator Risch’s efforts to streamline federal regulations to unleash unlimited potential for America’s economy, and Idaho stands ready to help,” said Little.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján, Heinrich, Colleagues Demand to Know Who Killed Minority Business Development Agency, Why & Where’s the Money Going?

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)
    “Who is actually running the Department: Secretary Lutnick or Elon Musk and DOGE?” Senators ask
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), joined U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell, Ranking Member of the Senate Commerce Committee, and five Senate Democrats in demanding that Keith Sonderling, the purported Acting Under Secretary of Commerce for the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), promptly turn over key documents and information related to the dismantling of the agency and recent funding termination notices sent to all grantees by a member of Elon Musk’s DOGE. The Senators’ demands come as Paul Dabbar, President Trump’s nominee for Deputy Secretary of Commerce, appeared on Thursday before the Commerce Committee for his nomination hearing.
    “In one MBDA termination notice reviewed by our offices, the Department claims the grant is being terminated because it ‘is unfortunately no longer consistent with the agency’s priorities and no longer serves the interests of the United States and the MBDA Program,’” the senators wrote in a letter to Sonderling, who was confirmed by the Senate as Deputy Secretary of Labor in March. “The termination notice further states that, ‘MBDA is repurposing its funding allocations in a new direction in furtherance of the President’s agenda.’ …[T]he notice is silent about why the grants are inconsistent with the MBDA’s priorities and programs—which Congress, not the Department, set by statute. And it suggests the DOC or others in the Administration may be using funding appropriated for the MBDA for other, unrelated purposes.”
    The Senators questioned Sonderling about the notice terminating all MBDA grants, which was signed by Nate Cavanaugh, a member of Elon Musk’s so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and “Under the Authority of Keith Sonderling, Acting Undersecretary of MBDA.”  
    “This raises significant questions regarding Mr. Cavanaugh’s precise role at DOC and the mechanism by which you or other members of DOC leadership delegated him authority to terminate MDBA grants on behalf of the Department,” their letter continued. “Our offices have also obtained information indicating you may not have been aware these termination notices were being sent out by Mr. Cavanaugh under your authority, which would raise further questions about who is actually running the Department: Secretary Lutnick or Elon Musk and DOGE?”
    The letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), and Andy Kim (D-N.J.).
    Today, during the Senate Commerce Committee hearing on the nomination of Paul Dabbar to be U.S. Deputy Secretary of Commerce, Senator Luján pressed Mr. Dabbar on the dismantlement of the MBDA by the Trump administration and highlighted the successes of the MBDA. Senator Luján championed an amendment in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to make the MBDA permanent. Senator Luján also secured passage of a provision to double the funding level for the MBDA’s Rural Business Development Center Program and to expand this program’s eligibility to include all Minority-Serving Institutions, which will expand opportunities for New Mexico’s colleges and universities. Additionally, in 2021 Senator Luján championed legislation to make permanent and expand the reach of the Minority Business Development Agency.
    In October 2024, Heinrich  led the unveiling of a new, larger office space for the New Mexico Minority Business Development Center in Albuquerque to expand support for local businesses across the state as they create the types of careers New Mexicans can build their families around. Heinrich wrote the legislative provision that established and funded the New Mexico Business Center in 2020, securing more than $2.5 million in federal resources through the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Minority Business Development Agency for its staffing and programming.
    The full text of the letter can be found HERE and below:
    Acting Under Secretary Sonderling:
    On March 25, 2025, and April 17, 2025, we sent letters to Secretary Howard Lutnick raising serious concerns about the apparent dismantling of the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), despite his testimony before the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation stating he would not support doing so. In our April 17 letter, we requested specific documents and information that would help address our outstanding questions and concerns regarding the MBDA. On April 24, 2025, we received a letter from the Department of Commerce (DOC) Acting Assistant Secretary for Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs purporting to respond to our April 17 letter. This response, however, contained a mere three sentences related to the MBDA and failed to answer or meaningfully address any of our requests. Given Secretary Lutnick’s apparent disregard for our concerns about the Department’s actions against the MBDA, we are now requesting you provide documents and information related to this inquiry.
    Since our most recent letter, our offices have obtained information demonstrating that DOC has canceled all MBDA grants—further dismantling an agency Congress statutorily authorized, despite Secretary Lutnick’s testimony to the contrary. In one MBDA termination notice reviewed by our offices, the Department claims the grant is being terminated because it “is unfortunately no longer consistent with the agency’s priorities and no longer serves the interests of the United States and the MBDA Program.” The termination notice further states that, “MBDA is repurposing its funding allocations in a new direction in furtherance of the President’s agenda.” Beyond these conclusory assertions, however, the notice is silent about why the grants are inconsistent with the MBDA’s priorities and programs—which Congress, not the Department, set by statute. And it suggests the DOC or others in the Administration may be using funding appropriated for the MBDA for other, unrelated purposes.
    Raising further concerns, the termination notice was signed by Nate Cavanaugh—who we understand to be part of the so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)—and is signed “Under the Authority of Keith Sonderling, Acting Undersecretary of MBDA.” Mr. Cavanaugh has reportedly been interviewing employees at the General Services Administration and overseeing efforts to dismantle another agency, the U.S. Institute of Peace. The termination notice indicates that Mr. Cavanaugh now has a DOC e-mail address. This raises significant questions regarding Mr. Cavanaugh’s precise role at DOC and the mechanism by which you or other members of DOC leadership delegated him authority to terminate MDBA grants on behalf of the Department. Our offices have also obtained information indicating you may not have been aware these termination notices were being sent out by Mr. Cavanaugh under your authority, which would raise further questions about who is actually running the Department: Secretary Lutnick or Elon Musk and DOGE?
    Given the lack of responsiveness from the Department to date, we reiterate the requests raised in our April 17, 2025 letter, and request the following additional documents and information no later than May 14, 2025:
    A complete description of Mr. Cavanaugh’s position at DOC, including his title, job description, date(s) of employment, any salary, any benefits, supervisor, and direct reports. Please also identify all other federal e-mail addresses assigned to or used by Mr. Cavanaugh of which you are aware.
    Documents sufficient to show Mr. Cavanaugh’s delegated authority to execute termination notices to MBDA grantees. 
    Documentation sufficient to show your appointment as Acting Under Secretary for Minority Business Development Agency and the date of such appointment.
    A complete description of your decision to delegate your authority to Mr. Cavanaugh for the purpose of terminating MBDA grants, including the extent to which Secretary Lutnick or any other senior DOC official was involved in making this decision.
    A complete description of the types of funded activities that are considered “consistent with the agency’s priorities” and “serve[] the interests of…the MBDA program.”
    A detailed explanation of how the MBDA intends to “repurpos[e] its funding allocations in a new direction in furtherance of the President’s agenda,” including any specific program or activity that has received or is expected to receive repurposed funding.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Administrator Loeffler Applauds Congressional Proposal to Increase Capital for Small Manufacturers

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    WASHINGTON — Today, Kelly Loeffler, Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) applauded Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) and Congressman Roger Williams (R-TX) for introducing new legislation that will double the individual loan limit for 7(a) and 504 small business manufacturing loans from $5 million to $10 million. The legislation aligns with SBA’s commitment to restoring American industry through its Made in America Manufacturing Initiative.

    In support of President Trump’s fair-trade agenda and the effort to restore American economic independence, the Made in America Manufacturing Finance Act will provide small manufacturers with new capital to grow, hire, and produce American-made products. Nearly 99% of manufacturers in America are small businesses – and with new capital injection, they will lead the nation’s effort to rebuild U.S. supply chains and recover American jobs.

    “On Liberation Day, President Trump made a clear promise to fight for our businesses and workers by bringing back the jobs and supply chains that built this nation—and today, we’re delivering,” said Loeffler. “The Made in America Manufacturing Finance Act will double SBA loan limits for small manufacturers, supercharging the return of American industry by giving small businesses the capital they need to expand, hire, and compete. I’m grateful to Senator Ernst and Representative Williams for leading this bipartisan effort that will empower our small businesses to reclaim our economic independence and rebuild the foundation of American power.”

    Driven by President Trump’s pro-growth economic policies, small business demand for capital has skyrocketed. SBA 7(a) loan approvals for small manufacturers have increased by 74% in the first 100 days of this Administration – indicating a strong surge in small business formation and growth. The Made in America Manufacturing Finance Act will empower the SBA to meet this new demand – and supercharge the return of Made in America.

    # # #

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of entrepreneurship. As the leading voice for small businesses within the federal government, the SBA empowers job creators with the resources and support they need to start, grow, and expand their businesses or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Owners of Roofing Companies Indicted for Tax Evasion

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEWARK, N.J. – Two roofing company owners were indicted for their failure to file tax returns and pay tax on income, U.S. Attorney Alina Habba announced.

    The Indictment charges Steve Mitchell, also known as “Sonny Mitchell,” of Edison, New Jersey, and Samuel Mitchell of Bohemia, New York with four counts each of tax evasion.

    According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

    Steve Mitchell, Samuel Mitchell, and others operated roofing businesses under several different names.  Despite earning approximately $881,730.26 and $1,397,960.21, respectively, in income from roofing customers from 2018 through 2021, Steve Mitchell and Samuel Mitchell failed to file tax returns with the IRS and pay tax on their income.  Instead, Steve Mitchell and Samuel Mitchell took affirmative steps to conceal their income from the IRS, including by providing false social security numbers to check cashing businesses that they used to convert customers’ checks to cash, which prevented the check cashing businesses from reporting the cashed checks to the IRS as required by law.

    In addition to the income from the roofing customers, Steve Mitchell also received income from an elderly individual for what the elderly individual thought was an investment in a COVID mask-making business.  In 2020 and 2021, Steve Mitchell converted over $4.2 million in checks from the elderly individual into cash.

    The tax evasion counts each carry a maximum potentially penalty of five years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000.

    U.S. Attorney Habba credited special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jenifer L. Piovesan, with the investigation leading to the charges.

    The government is represented by Assistant U. S. Attorney Casey S. Smith of the Criminal Division in Newark.

    The charges and allegations contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

                                                               ###

    Defense counsel:

    Steve Mitchell:            Michael A. Baldassare, Esq.

    Samuel Mitchell:        Robert Scrivo, Esq.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Passaic County Man Admits to Using An Explosive to Damage a Chase Bank ATM

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEWARK, N.J. – A Passaic County man admitted to using an explosive to damage a Chase Bank Automated Teller Machine (“ATM”) in Prospect Park, New Jersey, U.S. Attorney Alina Habba announced.

    Nicolas Torres, 42, of Passaic, New Jersey pleaded guilty before U.S. District Court Judge Julien X. Neals in Newark federal court to a one-count information charging him with using an explosive to damage real property used in interstate commerce.

    According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

    In the early morning hours of July 5, 2022, Torres was captured on surveillance video approaching the Chase Bank ATM in Prospect Park, New Jersey and igniting an item in front of the ATM. Several seconds later, an explosion was seen at the ATM. Torres was seen fleeing the location with two individuals.

    In addition to the surveillance video, cellular phone location data placed Torres in the area of the Chase Bank at the time of the explosion. The investigation also revealed that Torres had traveled to Pennsylvania the day before and purchased approximately $1,000 worth of fireworks.

    The use of an explosive to damage real property used in interstate commerce charge carries a statutory minimum of 5 years in prison, a statutory maximum of 20 years in prison, and a fine of $250,000. Sentencing is scheduled for September 9, 2025.

    U.S. Attorney Habba credited special agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Newark Field Division, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Terence G. Reilly, and the Prospect Park Police Department, under the direction of Chief William Rausch, with the investigation leading to today’s plea.

    The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Vera Varshavsky of the U.S. Attorney’s National Security Unit in Newark. 

                                                               ###

    Defense counsel: Adalgiza A. Núñez, Office of the Public Defender

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: First Savings Financial Group, Inc. Announces Redemption of Subordinated Notes

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    JEFFERSONVILLE, Ind., May 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — First Savings Financial Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: FSFG) (the “Company”), the holding company for First Savings Bank (the “Bank”), announced today the redemption of $20.0 million of subordinated notes, at par, on April 30, 2025. The subordinated notes were issued by the Company on September 20, 2018 as a 5.95% Fixed-to-Floating Rate Subordinated Note due 2028, in the principal amount of $20.0 million. Prior to redemption, the subordinated notes were floating rate and yielded 7.66%. In order to consummate the redemption, the Bank paid the Company a dividend of $19.0 million, which the Bank funded with a like dollar amount of short-term wholesale borrowings at a rate of 4.48%. Subsequent to the dividend, the Bank maintained leverage and total risk-based capital ratios in excess of 9.0% and 12.0%, respectively, as of March 31, 2025. Subsequent to the redemption, the Company maintained leverage and total risk-based capital ratios in excess of 9.0% and 12.0%, respectively, as of April 30, 2025.

    Commenting on the redemption, Larry W. Myers, President and CEO, stated “We are very pleased to have redeemed and retired this excess, high-cost debt, which we expect will contribute to expansion in net interest margin. This debt redemption and the repurchase of Company common shares have been strategic initiatives we’ve desired to implement. The redemption helps clear a path for the opportunity to repurchase Company common shares in the forthcoming months should we continue to build excess capital, which we currently anticipate, and should such repurchases be accretive to the Company’s earnings per share.”

    The Bank is an entrepreneurial community bank headquartered in Jeffersonville, Indiana, which is directly across the Ohio River from Louisville, Kentucky, and operates fifteen depository branches within Southern Indiana. The Bank also has two national lending programs, including single-tenant net lease commercial real estate and SBA lending, with offices located predominately in the Midwest. The Bank is a recognized leader, both in its local communities and nationally for its lending programs. The employees of First Savings Bank strive daily to achieve the organization’s vision, We Expect To Be The BEST community BANK, which fuels our success. The Company’s common shares trade on The NASDAQ Stock Market under the symbol “FSFG.”

    This release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. These statements are not historical facts; rather, they are statements based on the Company’s current expectations regarding its business strategies and their intended results and its future performance. Forward-looking statements are preceded by terms such as “expects,” “believes,” “anticipates,” “intends” and similar expressions.

    Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. Numerous risks and uncertainties could cause or contribute to the Company’s actual results, performance and achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Factors that may cause or contribute to these differences include, without limitation, changes in general economic conditions; changes in market interest rates; changes in monetary and fiscal policies of the federal government; legislative and regulatory changes; and other factors disclosed in the Company’s periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

    Because of the risks and uncertainties inherent in forward-looking statements, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on them, whether included in this release or made elsewhere from time to time by the Company or on its behalf. Except as may be required by applicable law or regulation, the Company assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements.

    Contact:

    Tony A. Schoen
    Chief Financial Officer
    (812) 283-0724

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Mayor urges Govt to approve bed night visitor levy following public support

    Source: Auckland Council

    The public consultation for Auckland Council’s Annual Plan 2025/2026 shows most Aucklanders want Government to enact legislative change to enable a bed night visitor levy.
    The consultation summary shows 60% of individuals, 58% of organisations, and 13 out of 14 Māori entities support a bed night visitor levy. Many of those who supported the proposal indicated a desire for public event funding, for visitor contribution to infrastructure, and for reducing local resident costs, and the view that it’s common overseas.

    The public feedback is consistent with the findings of a poll commissioned by the mayor’s office in August last year which found that 64% of Aucklanders support a bed night levy of 2.5%.

    The poll was conducted by Curia Market Research between 25-29 August 2024 and has a sample size of 2,000 Aucklanders. The results are weighted to reflect the regional population in terms of gender, age, and ward.

    “Despite the Government’s sheepishness towards a bed night levy, a clear majority of Aucklanders want it. They want visitors to contribute to the funding of the activities and services they use. It shouldn’t impact hoteliers’ profit margins but rather add to their bottom line. I think that’s fair, and common in many world-class destinations.”

    “Equally if the industry wants more events here, they need to do their bit to support these events happening. Ratepayers climbing out of a recession should not be burdened with these costs,” says Mayor Brown.

    He says Government would be wise to listen to the feedback.

    “Aucklanders are enjoying a better relationship with Wellington because I’m making sure they realise the powerhouse that we are.
    I’m telling the government to be wise and do the obvious and easy thing here.”

    Submissions also showed a majority support for the overall direction of the council’s annual plan. Of individuals, 72% support all or most of the overall plan. Of organisations, 81% and 11 out of 13 Māori entities support all or most of the overall plan.

    “This tells me that we’re on track with delivering what we said we would in the LTP. We are investing in every area we said we would while keeping rates as low as possible. In fact, the lowest for any metropolitan city in NZ.”

    Mayor Brown says the annual plan is a small but crucial step in moving Auckland in a progressive direction.

    “My vision is for Auckland to lead New Zealand on a path to prosperity. That means lifting productivity and real incomes so that every New Zealander – not just Aucklanders – can enjoy a higher standard of living.

    “As the powerhouse of our national economy, and our gateway to the world, Auckland is New Zealand’s biggest asset. But the council is just one player and that’s why it is important for all Aucklanders to participate in this conversation,” Mayor Brown says.

    I’m pleased to see we had the second largest number of submissions for an Annual Plan, we have high engagement and that’s good.”

    The final Mayor’s Proposal for the Annual Plan 2025/2026 will be available in the coming weeks. The council’s Budget Committee and Governing Body will then make final decisions at the end of May.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James Denounces Trump Administration for Gutting Family Planning Services

    Source: US State of New York

    EW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James and a multistate coalition of 20 other attorneys general today called on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to immediately reinstate tens of millions of dollars in Title X funds, which provide federal funding to health centers for family planning and reproductive health care, including birth control and other non-abortion services. Last month, HHS recklessly cut off support for vital family planning and health care services across the country without reason, leading to the complete loss of federal family planning funding in several states. In a letter to HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., Attorney General James and the coalition warned that the recent decision to withhold these Title X funds will have devastating public health consequences, including more unintended pregnancies, more sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and increased rates of undiagnosed HIV and cervical cancer.

    “The federal administration continues to play politics with the lives of the American people,” said Attorney General James. “By slashing funding to necessary health care clinics and providers, they are putting millions of Americans at risk while forcing states to clean up the mess. This cruel and shortsighted attack on essential health care will have disastrous impacts in every corner of our country. My fellow attorneys general and I are calling on the administration to reverse this mistaken policy.”

    On March 31, HHS notified several grant recipients, whose subgrantees constitute nearly 25 percent of all Title X clinics, that their funding was being terminated despite no clear evidence of wrongdoing. As a result, some states have seen a complete loss of Title X funding and many others, including New York, face significant reductions.

    Attorney General James and the coalition argue that this decision will be catastrophic, as proven by the devastating impact of previous Title X cuts under the first Trump administration. The 2019 Title X cuts resulted in a more than 60 percent drop in the number of patients served, and half of all Title X clinics in New York lost federal funding. Clinics were forced to reduce services or shut down altogether, and patients ended up forgoing recommended tests, lab work, STI testing, clinical breast exams, and Pap tests in large numbers. Between 2018 and 2019, Title X clinics across the nation performed 90,386 fewer Pap tests to screen for cervical cancer; 188,920 fewer breast exams; 276,109 fewer HIV tests; over one million fewer STI tests; and provided 361,000 fewer patients with birth control.

    Attorney General James and the coalition argue that low-income and rural communities will suffer the most as a result of these cuts. After the 2019 cuts, Title X providers saw 573,650 fewer patients under the federal poverty level and 324,776 fewer uninsured patients. As the population served by Title X is disproportionately low-income and more likely to be on Medicaid, the financial loss caused by these cuts will be primarily felt by the states. When the first Trump administration cut Title X grants, states suffered an enormous financial burden, including a $14.2 million emergency appropriation in New York to cover the loss in funds.

    In New York and nationwide, Title X programs play a critical role in delivering affordable, lifesaving healthcare. A 2016 survey showed that Title X clinics were the only source of comprehensive medical care for 60 percent of their patients. The Guttmacher Institute estimates that as a direct result of these cuts, at least 834,000 patients – 30 percent of all Title X patients – will lose care annually. Guttmacher also anticipates higher rates of unplanned pregnancies, higher STI rates, and worse overall health.

    In the letter, Attorney General James and the coalition assert that HHS has provided no legitimate evidence to justify the funding cuts, instead relying on vague accusations and political targeting of certain providers. Many of the notices that clinics and providers received point to “possible violations” of civil rights laws or the president’s Executive Orders, but the evidence provided fails to support any such claim. In one letter, HHS simply referenced a statement the grantee issued on racism in the aftermath of the murder of George Floyd. The attorneys general allege that these allegations are a pretext for the administration to penalize reproductive health care providers it dislikes. Meanwhile, the harm to patients and already strained state budgets is immediate and measurable.

    Attorney General James and the coalition are urging HHS to reinstate the withheld grants and restore full funding to the Title X program.

    Joining Attorney General James in sending this letter are the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Rockford Man Sentenced to Eleven Years in Prison for Attempting To Import More Than Half a Kilogram of Fentanyl

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ROCKFORD — A Rockford man was sentenced today to eleven years in federal prison for attempting to import more than half a kilogram of fentanyl into the United States from Mexico. 

    BENIGNO SANCHEZ, 47, pleaded guilty earlier this year to one count of attempting to possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl. U.S. District Judge Iain D. Johnston imposed the sentence during a hearing in federal court in Rockford.

    Sanchez admitted that in March 2023 he expected a package containing controlled substances to be delivered to him at an address in Rockford via FedEx from Mexico.  Law enforcement agents intercepted the package, which contained more than 500 grams of fentanyl pressed into pills (designed to imitate opioid pills) that were hidden inside a wooden tortilla press.  After detecting the fentanyl inside the package, law enforcement agents removed the drugs and delivered the package to Sanchez.  Once delivered, Sanchez took custody of the package, drove it to another location, and opened it to take possession of what he believed to be the drugs.

    The sentence was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Matthew Scarpino, Special Agent-in-Charge of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations in Chicago.  The government was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert S. Ladd. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: False disaster relief applications and other fraud lands former Houstonian in federal prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HOUSTON – A 35-year-old woman has been sentenced for conspiracy to commit wire fraud which resulted in approximately $620,000 in losses, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Cora Chantail Custard, who had resided in both Houston and San Antonio over course of the conspiracy, pleaded guilty Sept. 17, 2024.

    U.S. District Judge David Hittner has now ordered Custard to serve 57 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. She was also ordered to pay $621,388 in restitution. In handing down the sentence, the court noted the sophisticated means in which Custard used social media to advertise her services and defrauded the U.S. government and seven different state agencies.

    From March 2020 until March 2021, Custard conspired with others to submit false and fraudulent loan applications for financial assistance both personally and on behalf of others.

    At the time of the plea, Custard admitted to using her Facebook account to advertise her services to file fraudulent disaster relief applications. Her posts repeatedly described the scheme to her followers as “doing apps,” with the ability to obtain between $6,000 and $8,000 for an application within four to seven days of filing.

    Custard submitted or caused the submission of over 100 fraudulent Economic Injury Disaster Loan applications, at least 36 of which resulted in advance payments totaling $345,000.

    She also filed at least 30 fraudulent Federal Emergency Management Agency disaster benefit applications related to Hurricane Laura in August 2020 and Hurricane Sally in September 2020. At least 16 of those fraudulent applications resulted payouts totaling approximately $75,000.

    Additionally, Custard committed several other fraudulent acts like filing over 100 false unemployment insurance applications in Michigan, Illinois and several other states for her own and others’ benefits. At least 20 of those fraudulent applications resulted in payments totaling approximately $200,000.

    She was remanded into custody at sentencing.

    The Department of Homeland Security-Office of Inspector General (OIG), IRS Criminal Investigation, Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, Social Security Administration-OIG, Small Business Administration-OIG and Department of Labor-OIG conducted the investigation.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen M. Lansden prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Five Members and Associates of a Long Island-Based Drug Trafficking Organization Indicted for Narcotics Distribution

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Members of “No Budget” Allegedly Distributed Cocaine and Fentanyl Across Long Island, Perpetrated the March 2023 Killing of a Bay Shore Man and Shooting of a Potential Witness

    Earlier today, at the federal court in Central Islip, an indictment was unsealed charging five members and associates of a Long Island-based drug trafficking organization known as “No Budget” with conspiring to distribute cocaine and fentanyl since 2017.  Nicholas Andrade, Julian Hutchins, Prince Jones, Jose Lopez, and Ryan O’Malley engaged in a years’ long drug trafficking operation transporting fentanyl and 137 kilograms of cocaine across the country for distribution primarily in Long Island and Queens, New York.  Andrade, the leader of the organization, is also charged for his role in the March 9, 2023 murder of Jose Manuel Sosa in Bay Shore and the March 10, 2023 shooting in Queens of a potential witness to the murder.  The four defendants arrested today in New York were arraigned before United States Magistrate Judge Steven I. Locke who ordered them detained pending trial.  Hutchins was arrested in Florida and will be arraigned in the Eastern District of New York at a later date.  If convicted of the charges, the defendants face up to life in prison.

    John J. Durham, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, and Frank A. Tarentino III, Special Agent in Charge, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), New York Division, announced the arrests and charges.

    “As alleged, the defendants participated in the large-scale distribution of deadly narcotics across Long Island and committed crimes of extreme violence to maintain their drug business,” stated United States Attorney Durham.  “My Office and our law enforcement partners will continue working tirelessly to eradicate the scourge of fentanyl and drug-related violence on Long Island and the related harm these dangerous drugs pose to our communities.”

    Mr. Durham expressed his appreciation to the Suffolk County Police Department, Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office, New York City Police Department, New York State Police, Queens District Attorney’s Office, and U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms for their work on the case.

    “The indictment against these individuals who ran a drug trafficking organization known as “No Budget” spared no cost at using violence to run their illicit drug distribution of cocaine and fentanyl,” stated DEA Special Agent in Charge Tarentino.  “Thanks to the hard work and determination of the DEA and our law enforcement partners, we were able to remove 137 kilos of cocaine destined for the streets of Long Island.  The DEA remains committed to protecting our communities”

    As alleged in court filings, since 2017, the defendants carried out the large scale trafficking and distribution of fentanyl and cocaine on Long Island and maintained a series of stash houses in Queens and on Long Island.  Throughout the investigation, phone records and surveillance regularly captured the defendants meeting with one another and exchanging duffle bags, luggage, or other bags in manners consistent with narcotics trafficking.  As a result of court-authorized searches, law enforcement recovered dozens of kilogram wrappers with cocaine residue, kilogram presses used to reshape narcotics, packaging materials, and quantities of fentanyl and cocaine.  On April 27, 2025, law enforcement intercepted a truck travelling from California to New York containing a shipment of 137 kilograms of cocaine destined for No Budget’s distribution operation.  In total, the investigation revealed that the defendants were responsible for the distribution of over 235 kilograms of cocaine and 20 kilograms of fentanyl. 

    In addition to Andrade’s narcotics operation, he directed several violent crimes, including the March 2023 murder of Sosa and the subsequent attempted murder of a potential witness to the murder.  Sosa’s murder was precipitated by a dispute that had escalated over the preceding months between Andrade, Sosa, and another Long Island based drug dealer.  In early March 2023, Andrade and others planned to rob Sosa’s residence.  However, on March 9, 2023, Andrade directed other members of No Budget to kill Sosa.  Later that day, when Sosa was alone in his driveway, the shooter exited a borrowed Audi and shot Sosa multiple times, killing him.  The shooter and getaway driver sped away and the two met up with Andrade.  

    The next day, in an effort to cover up No Budget’s involvement in Sosa’s murder, Andrade and the shooter developed a plan to lure John Doe-1—the owner of the Audi used in the murder—to a location in Queens and kill him.  When John Doe-1 arrived at the location, acting at Andrade’s direction, the shooter had a brief conversation with John Doe-1 in the Audi, and upon exiting the Audi, turned and fired into the vehicle, striking John Doe-1 in the head.  John Doe-1 sustained serious injuries but ultimately survived his wounds. 

    This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation.  OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. 

    This case is also part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and other transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.  Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Project Safe Neighborhood.

    The charges in the indictment are allegations and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    The government’s case is being handled by the Criminal Section of the Office’s Long Island Division.  Assistant United States  Attorneys James R. Simmons and Michael R. Maffei are in charge of the prosecution.

    The Defendants:

    NICHOLAS ANDRADE
    Age:  37
    White Plains, New York

    JULIAN HUTCHINS
    Age:  43
    White Plains, New York

    PRINCE JONES
    Age:  36
    Mineola, New York

    JOSE LOPEZ
    Age:  43
    Elmont, New York

    RYAN OMALLEY
    Age:  34
    Port Jefferson Station, New York

    E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 25-CR-147 (GRB)

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Oil and gas companies add renewable fuels to low-carbon portfolio, says GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Oil and gas companies add renewable fuels to low-carbon portfolio, says GlobalData

    Posted in Oil & Gas

    The global energy landscape is steadily moving toward cleaner sources, with a gradual decline in fossil fuel dependence. The share of fossil fuels in the world’s energy mix has declined from 82% in 2022 to 81.5% in 2023, indicating a gradual shift. This transition is driven by the need to cut greenhouse gas emissions and combat global warming. Against this backdrop, biofuels are emerging as a low-carbon alternative in transportation, with their share in total liquid fuel demand expected to grow to 6.4% in 2030, forecasts GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    GlobalData’s Strategic Intelligence report, “Biofuels,” evaluates the role of oil and gas companies in the biofuels theme. It benchmarks the efforts of oil majors, such as TotalEnergies, BP, Shell, and ExxonMobil, in the biofuels value chain. It also identifies the key developments influencing this theme and provides an outlook for renewable fuels – an emerging category of biofuels.

    Ravindra Puranik, Oil and Gas Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “The oil and gas industry—including producers, contractors—are relatively new entrants in the biofuels space. Despite this, they are making notable movements in the competitive landscape for renewable fuels, such as renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuels (SAF). Prominent refiner Neste is leading the renewable fuels segment, particularly renewable diesel with four active refineries around the world.”

    Despite their clean energy profile, biofuels face significant challenges related to production costs and competition with fossil fuels. Processing advanced biomass sources, such as agricultural and forestry waste, remains expensive, limiting large-scale viability. However, refiners like Neste, Valero, and Marathon Petroleum are making strategic investments to scale biofuel production and lower costs. Technological innovations in refining are also critical in improving biofuel affordability and availability.

    Puranik continues: “Although biofuels contribute towards energy security while reducing emissions, their adoption remains nascent and restricted to certain markets globally. As a result, companies are cautious while pledging investments for new facilities, and even halting project development, as was seen in the case of Shell’s upcoming facility in Rotterdam.”

    Global renewable refinery capacity is experiencing significant growth, with 15 new facilities under construction in 2025 while two already operational this year. By 2030, an additional 218 facilities are expected to come online, expanding global capacity from 9,340 million gallons per year (mmgy) in 2024 to a projected 32,618 mmgy. The US currently accounts for 51% share in global renewable fuel production, driven by policy incentives, but the recent political shifts, including Trump’s attempts to repeal parts of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), create uncertainty.

    Puranik concludes: “Policy approaches vary widely around the world. While the European Union (EU) enforce strict mandates, such as the ReFuelEU Aviation initiative requiring a minimum of 2% SAF blending by 2025, some of the other regions lack such clear policies, leading to disparities in biofuel adoption and investment. The commitment of a nation to achieve interim net-zero objectives, availability of biomass, and affordability of petroleum fuels are critical factors influencing policy support for biofuels.”

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Pharma M&A deal value surges by 101% QoQ in Q1 2025 despite US political turbulence, reveals GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Pharma M&A deal value surges by 101% QoQ in Q1 2025 despite US political turbulence, reveals GlobalData

    Posted in Business Fundamentals

    Mergers and acquisitions (M&As) in the biopharmaceutical industry surged 101% in total deal value in Q1 2025 from $18.8 billion in Q4 2024 to $37.7 billion. However, drugmakers remain hesitant to pursue larger-scale transactions. The total deal value in Q1 2025 was 32% lower compared to Q1 2024, as larger M&As are seen as high risk due to the current US political landscape, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    According to GlobalData’s report “Pharma M&A Trends – Q1 2025,” oncology remains the leading therapeutic area in Q1 2025, with most of the deals targeting cancer-related assets.

    While billion-dollar acquisitions remain rare due to the current political turbulence, during Q1 2025, big pharma was involved in four billion-dollar deals valued at $1 billion or more, according to GlobalData’s Pharmaceutical Intelligence Center Deals Database. These included Johnson & Johnson’s $14.6 billion acquisition of Intra-Cellular Therapies, Novartis’ $3.1 billion acquisition of Anthos Therapeutics, GSK’s $1.15 billion buy of IDRx, and AstraZeneca’s $1 billion purchase of EsoBiotec.

    Ophelia Chan, Senior Business Fundamentals Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Apart from a flurry of large-scale deals driven by big pharma, the industry remains cautious given the uncertainty surrounding Trump’s as-yet-unspecified policies. So far, the start of 2025 continues to be shaped primarily by bolt-on transactions.”

    Chan continues: “Dealmakers are closely monitoring further details of new policies and awaiting greater clarity on forthcoming regulations. Some companies may adopt a wait-and-see approach, holding off on transactions until there is more insight into how Trump’s tariffs will affect industry, while others are awaiting what the administration will say on M&As.”

    Chan concludes: “Given that deregulation was a defining feature of Trump’s first term, it is anticipated that the administration will pursue measures to ease regulatory constraints. Such efforts aim to accelerate the M&A regulatory process, sparking more mega deals and overall increase in M&A activity.”

    To view further insights into M&A activity globally in Q1 2025 in the Pharma Sector, please see our Pharma M&A Trends – Q1 2025 report.

    Note: The data includes announced and completed M&A deals and buy-outs made by private equity firms involving biopharmaceutical companies with drugs headquartered globally which are announced between January 1, 2021 and March 31, 2025, where a deal value has been publicly disclosed.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: US tariffs could seriously disrupt $6.1 billion EU exports of packaging and food processing machinery, says GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    US tariffs could seriously disrupt $6.1 billion EU exports of packaging and food processing machinery, says GlobalData

    Posted in Consumer

    On 2 April 2025, the US administration announced tariffs on all imports, which included a notable 20% tariff on exports from the European Union (EU) to the US. This decision followed the imposition of 25% tariffs on all aluminum and steel imports into the US on 12 March 2025. These policies will significantly alter growth opportunities within food processing and packaging machinery companies supplying the US market. This is because of changes in the packaging formats used to package goods in the US and changes in where automation opportunities reside, says GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    GlobalData’s recent report “Industry Insights: The impact of tariffs on consumer packaged goods” reveals which CPG-relevant sectors are most affected by tariffs within specific trade relationships and how companies within these sectors will be affected. It also provides insights into consumer reactions to changes in the market caused by the imposition of tariffs.

    Rory Gopsill, Senior Consumer Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “US tariffs have the potential to alter the demand for certain types of machinery within the US beverages market. Given the significant dependence of the US on aluminum imports to meet domestic needs, a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports is expected to increase the cost of beverage cans.

    “Consequently, soft drink manufacturers may consider transitioning to plastic bottles as a response to the heightened costs associated with metal packaging, a possibility acknowledged by Coca-Cola’s chief executive during a call with investors in February following the tariff announcement. This could result in an increased demand for the blow moulding machines used to produce plastic bottles.”

    In 2024, 126.2 billion soft drinks sold in the US were packaged in plastic bottles, and 60.5 billion were packaged in metal cans, according to GlobalData’s Primary Packaging and Outers database. These numbers are 60.0% and 28.8% of the US soft drinks market, respectively. The US tariffs could restrict the growth of rigid metal cans and promote the growth of rigid plastic bottles. This in turn could have knock-on effects for the machinery in the production of these packaging types.

    EU processing machinery manufacturers will be hurt by US tariffs

    Many of the largest manufacturers of packaging and food processing machinery are European. Krones, GEA, and Syntegon are all German companies, while Sacmi, Coesia, IMA, and PFM Group are all Italian companies. This strong ecosystem enabled the EU to export $3.4 billion worth of washing and bottling machines, $1.6 billion worth of industrial food preparation machinery, and $1.1 billion worth of industrial printers to the US in 2023, according to The Observatory of Economic Complexity. Germany alone accounted for 24% of the US’ industrial food preparation machinery imports in 2023, according to the same source. A 20% tariff on these EU exports to the US represents a serious problem for EU machinery manufacturers.

    Gopsill continues: “Other elements of the US’ current policy agenda could also create disruptions in the US packaging and food processing machinery market. The Trump administration is also pursuing a budget reconciliation bill aimed at securing between $90 billion and $175 billion in additional funding for immigration and border enforcement agencies before the end of the year. This funding would enhance the government’s capacity to conduct business raids and detain and deport undocumented immigrants.

    “Such actions could lead to labor shortages in various industries that heavily depend on packaging and food processing machinery. For instance, according to the American Immigration Council, approximately 23% of the workforce in the US meatpacking industry consists of undocumented immigrants, while this figure was around 62% in the seafood processing sector in 2017 (according to the New American Economy).  Furthermore, according to the American Immigration Council, about 5.5% of employees in transportation and warehousing are also undocumented immigrants.

    Gopsill concludes: “If a crackdown on immigrant labor creates workforce vacancies that companies are unable to fill, food processing and packaging machinery companies may be required to accelerate their innovation programs to supply the market with more automated packaging solutions.”

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Pfluger, Messmer Lead Push to Defund Universities Still Requiring the COVID-19 Vaccine

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — As first reported in Fox News, Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) and Congressman Mark Messmer (IN-08) introduced legislation to ensure that no federal dollars go to any university across the country that still requires its students or staff to receive a COVID-19 vaccine as a condition of enrollment of employment, or receiving any benefit, service, or contract.

    The No Vaccine Mandates in Higher Education Act will codify a key piece of one of President Trump’s February executive orders that restricted federal funding to public schools, including colleges and universities, that mandate COVID-19 vaccines for attendance. It is unacceptable that any university still requires the COVID-19 vaccine. Taxpayers’ hard-earned money should not go to higher education institutions that require the COVID-19 vaccine for attendance.

    “The COVID-19 pandemic opened Pandora’s box to a lengthy list of overreaching policies and mandates from the government, institutions, and companies alike. As we work to restore common sense and liberties back to the American people, I am proud to co-lead this legislation to ensure universities can no longer force their students to have the COVID-19 vaccine,” said Rep. Pfluger.

    “It is unbelievable that even today, two years after the COVID-19 emergency was officially declared dead and gone, there are still learning institutions across this country persecuting students and staff with unnecessary vaccine mandates,” said Rep. Messmer. “The No Vaccine Mandates in Higher Education Act assures the American people that Congress and President Trump recognize this continued injustice and will work together to restore the civil liberties and freedom from government overreach that all Americans richly deserve.”

    To read the full text of the legislation, click here.

    Background:

    During the COVID-19 pandemic, many higher education institutions implemented vaccine mandates for their students and staff. These mandates affect the individual liberties of students and teachers around the country.

    Many institutions announced the end of their vaccine requirement after President Joe Biden ended the COVID-19 national and public health emergency last May. These institutions have either removed COVID-19 information from their websites or haven’t updated the content in a couple of years. 

    Even with the COVID-19 pandemic behind us, there are still higher education institutions around the country that still have vaccine requirements for their students and teachers.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pfluger Leads Push to Mitigate Cybersecurity Risks Associated with Unsecured Networks

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

    WASHINGTON, DC — This week, Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) led a letter with several colleagues commending Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Brendan Carr on his decision to establish the new Council for National Security within the FCC, and urging him to use the council to mitigate cybersecurity risks associated with unsecured routers.

    In part, the members wrote, “The recent proliferation of cybersecurity incidents underscores the need for the entire federal government to work together to address and deter cyber threats. We write to you today because we believe there is more the FCC can do to reduce the likelihood of such incidents. As the backbone of the Internet, routers play a critical role in securing communications for consumers and businesses. When these devices are insecure, they can serve as gateways for cyberattacks. For example, weak, default, or easily predicted passwords make routers vulnerable to exploitation. Malicious actors can exploit these vulnerabilities in routers to disrupt service, steal sensitive data, or even launch attacks against critical infrastructure…”

    “We are increasingly concerned about the prevalence of these devices and that unsecured routers may allow the CCP to surveil American data or disrupt our networks. Although the Department of Commerce is reviewing whether or not to ban routers made by Chinese-owned companies in the future, many of these devices remain on our networks, which nefarious actors could still leverage.”

    The letter outlines several examples of how the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has repeatedly tried to leverage private companies and create backdoors in our critical infrastructure technology. The letter also highlights that under Chairman Carr’s leadership, the Council for National Security can take action against the CCP by leveraging equipment authorization to require routers to allow only uniquely identifiable devices known to the household and securely authenticated by the network owner.

    See the full letter HERE or read the full text below.

    Dear Chairman Carr,

    Firstly, we write to commend your decision to establish the new Council for National Security within the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), a crucial step in safeguarding America’s telecommunications infrastructure. Congress stands ready to work with you on this initiative to reduce America’s dependence on foreign adversaries, mitigate cyberattack vulnerabilities, and ensure U.S. supremacy in critical technologies.

    As you know, the House Energy and Commerce Committee has worked diligently to combat the People’s Republic of China’s (PRC) efforts to leverage private companies to create backdoors in our telecommunications infrastructure. For example, the House of Representatives just recently passed H.R. 866, the ROUTERS Act, to safeguard Americans’ communications networks from foreign-adversary controlled technology, including routers, modems, or devices that combine both. Additionally, in the 118th Congress, the House passed H.R. 7521, the Protecting Americans from the Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, which prevents foreign adversary-controlled applications from targeting, surveilling, and manipulating Americans through online applications like TikTok. Congress also worked to ensure that the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Reimbursement Program, or the “Rip and Replace” program, received proper funding to remove untrusted equipment such as Huawei and ZTE from our networks.

    Last year, the House Committee on Homeland Security and the Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party released their Joint Investigation report into Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries Company (ZPMC), a PRC-owned and operated company. The investigation yielded that ZPMC, or a third-party company contracted with ZPMC, installed cellular modems onto STS cranes currently operational at U.S. ports. These installations fall outside the scope of any contract between the affected U.S. ports and ZPMC. The modems created an obscure method to collect information and bypass firewalls in a manner that could potentially disrupt port operations.

    Even more recently, the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) reported that the Chinese-made Contec CMS8000 patient monitors contained a hard-coded IP address linked to an unidentified third party, allowing for reverse backdoor functionality. This vulnerability allows for remote access of the medical device and may allow for potential manipulation, risking patient safety and compromising sensitive health data.

    These are just a few examples of how the CCP will use every tool at its disposal to undermine U.S. economic and national security interests to further its agenda. The recent proliferation of cybersecurity incidents underscores the need for the entire federal government to work together to address and deter cyber threats. We write to you today because we believe there is more the FCC can do to reduce the likelihood of such incidents.

    As the backbone of the Internet, routers play a critical role in securing communications for consumers and businesses. When these devices are insecure, they can serve as gateways for cyberattacks. For example, weak, default, or easily predicted passwords make routers vulnerable to exploitation. Malicious actors can exploit these vulnerabilities in routers to disrupt service, steal sensitive data, or even launch attacks against critical infrastructure.

    It has been reported that TP-Link, a Chinese company, owns roughly 65% of the routers used in U.S. homes and small businesses. Additionally, the Department of Defense and other federal government agencies have used TP-Link Routers before. Multiple TP-Link routers have been added to the National Institute of Science (NIST) National Vulnerability Database for containing a directory traversal vulnerability, allowing unauthenticated remote attackers to access sensitive files by sending specially crafted requests.

    We are increasingly concerned about the prevalence of these devices and that unsecured routers may allow the CCP to surveil American data or disrupt our networks. Although the Department of Commerce is reviewing whether or not to ban routers made by Chinese-owned companies in the future, many of these devices remain on our networks, which nefarious actors could still leverage.

    With the new Council for National Security, the FCC can take various actions to mitigate cybersecurity risks associated with unsecured routers. The FCC could leverage equipment authorization through the Telecommunications Certification Body to require routers to allow only uniquely identifiable devices known to the household and securely authenticated by the network owner onto a customer’s network. These steps represent broadly accepted minimum security practices under NIST guidance and are necessary first steps toward protecting our nation’s consumers and networks from cyber risks. Other immediate-term options, such as prohibiting any new sales of TP-Link routers, or requiring ISPs to block new TP-Link routers from being added to home networks, would stop the influx of these devices on networks. Additionally, as we think beyond TP-Link routers, ISP authentication will strengthen U.S. networks’ ability to defend themselves against future untrusted Internet of Things (IoT) devices joining their networks.

    We are confident that, under your leadership, we can advance national cybersecurity initiatives

    and create robust strategies to strengthen U.S. networks against cybersecurity threats. Together,

    we can foster a secure digital environment that instills trust and confidence among users

    nationwide.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Greens anticipate another record-breaking year in local elections as polls close 

    Source: Green Party of England and Wales

    / by Green Party

    As polls close in the council and mayoral elections taking place across England, the Green Party has said it is confident of “record-breaking” results. The Party is hoping to carry on its winning streak of recent years by increasing its number of councillors for an eighth year in a row. This builds on its best ever General Election result in 2024 that saw nearly 2 million people vote Green increasing its representation in parliament.  

    Green Party Co-leader, Carla Denyer MP, said: 

    “The Green Party is used to breaking records and it looks like this year will be no exception. We’ve increased our number of councillors seven years in a row, and we are sure this will be an eighth. We are taking seats from both the Conservatives and Labour up and down the country as voters, understandably, move away from the tired old parties that have let us all down. We know voters want change, and Greens have that bold and positive vision that stands in contrast to Reform whose politics breed fear and division.” 

    Co-leader Arian Ramsay added: 

    “There is a clear message coming out of these elections. The stale, discredited parties are failing; two-party politics is dead. We now have a five-party system in UK politics, and going forward it’s everything to play for.  

    “Up and down the country we will be winning seats, and in contrast to Reform, building on a long track record of being active in local communities. We’re known for offering practical solutions on the housing crisis, cost of living, climate breakdown and protecting public services. When people elect Greens, they get representatives who work hard all year round. That’s why we are building our membership and electing more and more Greens at all levels of government year after year.” 
     

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –